Broward Family Life March 2019 by Broward Family Life

COMPLIMENTARY

special

MARCH 2019

DELIVERY LOCAL RESOURCES for BUSY PARENTS

virtual

REALITIES WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT VIDEO-GAMING

summer

CAMP

showcase

AWESOME OPTIONS FOR YOUR CHILD

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

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

We’re Celebrating with Timothy

Heart Transplants

Feeling extremely fatigued, Timothy’s parents brought him to our emergency room. A cardiac evaluation brought nearly unbelievable news—he needed a new heart. “We’re so happy for Timothy, and so proud of our entire team for all they’ve done for our 50 heart transplant patients and families,” said Maryanne Chrisant, MD, Medical Director of Heart Failure, Cardiomyopathy and Transplant. “This milestone, at the 8th anniversary of our program, would not be possible without our generous donor families and we thank them.” Watch his transplant journey at JDCH.com/50Transplant.

PHYSICAL THERAPY • OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY • SPEECH THERAPY • ABA THERAPY • PSYCHIATRIC THERAPY NEW!

iring Now H As BCB Ts and RB

WWW.THERAPIES4KIDS.COM

This is not a game. It’s a therapy.

THERAPIES 4 KIDS is a company dedicated to providing high quality medical services to children with disabilities across South Florida. We offer a FREE individualized consultation as well as direct care for children with neurological and developmental disorders. We provide therapies at home, school and in any of our several South Florida locations. Our services include:

• • •

Applied Behavior analysis Occupational Therapy Speech Therapy

• •

Physical Therapy and now Psychiatric Therapy

CALL

If you currently have a family member that might need our services, please reach out to one of our dedicated professionals.

954-633-5507

info@therapies4kids.com

Most Insurances Accepted • Open Saturdays 5 CLINICS IN SOUTH FLORIDA

BOCA RATON • CORAL SPRINGS • MIAMI • PEMBROKE PINES • WESTON WELLINGTON AND MORE LOCATIONS OPENING SOON

FAMILY & FUN

TALLAHASSEE ALL IN ONE

Tallahassee is a destination sure to ﬁll your family’s hearts with wonder. From meandering along beautiful nature trails and splashing in Cascade Park’s Centennial Fountain to enthralling spring festivals like the Red Hills International Horse Trials, Springtime Tallahassee, Southern Shakespeare Festival, LeMoyne Chain of Parks Art Festival and Word of South Festival, Tallahassee truly has it all. Plan your trip at VisitTallahassee.com

VisitTallahassee.com

Delivering the Experience of a Lifetime When Kathya delivered her first baby at Broward Health Coral Springs, she and her family were overjoyed. From the maternity tour through the birth of her baby girl, Kathya’s experience far exceeded her expectations. She is already planning on returning for her next baby!

“The staff was amazing and the rooms were beautiful. I had a lot of family and we were all comfortable.” - Kathya, Proud mom of Khloe (Coral Springs resident)

Part of the new patient tower that opened in fall 2018, The Maternity Place is designed to offer an upscale, spa-like environment tailored to the needs of expectant mothers. Features include: • Dedicated private entrance for expectant moms • Private suites with personal bathrooms • 3 State-of-the-art operating rooms • 10 Private Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) rooms

To schedule a tour, contact our Childbirth Concierge at 954.344.BABY (2229) BrowardHealth.org/MaternityPlace

The Maternity Place 3000 Coral Hills Drive, Coral Springs

contents

MARCH 2019

VIRTUAL REALITIES Parents worry that their children spend too much time staring at video screens and playing video games. Here’s why.

SPECIAL DELIVERY Babies may not come with a manual, but our guide to resources in and around Broward County can help new moms and dads navigate the journey of pregnancy and parenthood.

SUMMER CAMP SHOWCASE Searching for the perfect summer program? Check out our special advertising section filled with options that may be just what you’re looking for.

TODAY’S GRANDPARENTS Our special section devoted to informing and engaging South Florida grandparents. This month: the grandparent-grandchild bond, the boom in tribute shows, and the blessing of GPS.

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BROWARD & BEYOND

FAMILY HEALTH

FAMILY MAN

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

WORDS OF WISDOM

News about the people, places and events in our community.

Expert advice to keep Daylight Saving Time from disturbing your child’s bedtime routine.

A dad discovers the mutual joys of joking around with his kids.

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

How the kinship of motherhood reveals our true friends.

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Choose your arrival time.

Wait at home.

Emergencies Are Never Planned Emergency Room Visits Can Be

Florida Medical Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Emergency Center in Davie offers 24-hour treatment and is equipped to handle the same serious conditions as a full-service hospital department. Plus, you can check in online! Choose your arrival time and wait at home while we hold your place. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that easy.

Check-in at FloridaMedctr.com/ERDavie

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

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

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

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

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Let’s head to the Islands for a fun-filled day of • storytelling • live shows • arts and crafts • facepainting • some of your favorite storybook characters!

IS L A N D TALES Every child receives a free book! (while supplies last)

lib.nova.edu/storyfest 954-262-5477

FR EE

3100 Ray Ferrero, Jr. Boulevard Fort Lauderdale, FL. 33314-1013

FREE FIRST THURSDAYS

STARRY NIGHTS Sponsored by:

Thursday, March 7, 4-8 PM

Micro Mini Muse and Mini Muse supported by Funding Arts Broward. Ride Brightline. Code NSUMUSA 25% off. Gobrightline.com

FR EE

Children and adults; tour the museum and create artworks inspired by exhibitions on view. Enjoy 2-for-1 specials in the Museum Caf .

nsuartmuseum.org | 954-525-5500 One East Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 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 City of Fort Lauderdale, AutoNation, Wege Foundation, Community Foundation of Broward, Funding Arts Broward, 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 Fort Lauderdale is accredited by the American Association of Museums.

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&beyond

BROWARD

Barbie’s Birthday Bash O n March 9, Barbie will become the world’s most famous 60-year-old teenager, and a local gallery is throwing her a birthday party. Art Gallery 21 will celebrate with the grand opening of its new exhibit, “The Art of Barbie: Homage to a Global Icon.” Prizes, party favors and refreshments will be among the festivities from 7-9pm on the big day, as will an interactive Barbie installation designed for visitors to conduct their own photo shoot with the 11.5-inch fashionista. Running through April 6, the exhibit features original art, installations and a 1/6-scale interactive diorama that pays homage to the global icon that has launched the sale of an estimated billion-plus dolls in over 150 countries — at the rate of three every second, according to Mattel, Barbie’s “parent” company. And, demand for Barbara Millicent Roberts — Barbie’s full name — shows no signs of slowing down, thanks partly to Mattel’s repositioning of the toy as a “platform for girl’s empowerment” and offering it in different skin tones and body types. Sales soared at the end of last year, and a live-action movie starring actress Margot Robbie is scheduled to be released next year. Barbie will also be the focus of a free photography workshop at the gallery, from 2-4pm March 23. Led by one of the exhibit’s featured artists, Wilton Manors-based photographer Brett Butler, “Characters in Search of a Dollhouse” will teach participants how to use Barbie and other toys in photography and visual storytelling. With slides, video, backgrounds and sets, participants will be privy to the process used to photograph Barbie. Seating is limited.

Barbie is the star of an exhibit opening in Wilton Manors on March 9.

Exhibit hours are noon-8pm Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Docents will be available to provide guided tours and information. RSVP for the grand opening and the workshop by emailing artgallery21wcwm@gmail. For more information please visit www.artgallery21.org/barbie. Art Gallery 21 is at 600 NE 21 Court, Wilton Manors.

WELCOME TO WATER WORLD Could there be a more relevantly titled South Florida event than Water Matters Day? From Las Olas Isles to the Everglades, from the Dania Beach Pier to the Hillsboro Inlet, from the aquifers below the ground to the swimming pools above it, the water that flows from our taps and sprays from our sprinklers virtually defines South Florida. Yet the region’s dependence on water belies the vulnerability of the ecosystem that supplies it. And that’s only expected to intensify, according to the South Florida Water Management District, which projects that by 2025 an increase of 3 million residents will spike freshwater demand

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by 4.3 billion gallons per day — 22 percent over today’s use. Against that backdrop, and as it already has for 16 years, Broward County will present its signature water-conservation event, Water Matters Day. The March 9 event will turn Tree Tops Park in Davie into a water world of fun and information that will help residents learn not only how to save water — but money, too. From 9am-3pm, the event will offer a virtual flood of conservation and eco-friendly tips, information about rebates and incentives for upgrading to water-conserving devices, and expert advice in creating “Florida friendly” and

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drought-tolerant landscapes. Plus, participants can expand their knowledge about local and regional water resources, and about how water managers are working to meet current and future demands. But the festivities won’t be strictly business. There will also be children’s activities, entertainment, food trucks and giveaways — the most popular being the giveaway that keeps on giving, allowing residents to take home free native and fruit trees, palms, shrubs and groundcovers (two per family). Tree Tops Park is at 3900 SW 100 Ave. For more information, please visit www.broward.org/waterresources or call 954-519-1270.

An Historical Month for Womankind In this era of heightened women’s causes, the arrival of Women’s History Month carries an elevated significance and an especially significant theme. Every year since 1988, March has been designated as Women’s History Month by Presidential proclamation to honor women’s contributions in American history. This year’s theme, “Visionary Women: Champions of Peace & Nonviolence,” honors those who have led efforts to end war, violence and injustice and pioneered the use of nonviolence to change society. As with most advances for women in this country, the monthlong recognition didn’t happen overnight, tracing its beginnings back to the first International Women’s Day in 1911 and ultimately emerging in 1978 as Women’s History Week, a local celebration in Santa Rosa, Calif. The organizers selected the week of March 8 to correspond with International Women’s Day, and other communities initiated celebrations the following year. In 1980, a consortium of women’s groups successfully lobbied for national recognition of the event, and in February, President Jimmy Carter issued the first Presidential Proclamation declaring the week of March 8 as National Women’s History Week. “Men and women have worked together to build this nation,” Carter said. “The achievements, leadership, courage, strength and love of the women who built America was as vital as that of the men whose names we know so well.” By 1986, 14 states had already extended the week to a month, and the following year, Congress followed suit and passed the law that made Women’s History Month a national celebration in perpetuity. Among events marking the occasion in Broward are the March 5 County Commission meeting, at which the Commission on the Status of Women will present honorees from the community who have exemplified this year’s theme. Among them are recently elected Tamarac Mayor Michelle J. Gomez, Broward Sheriff’s Deputy Jennifer Marion and Debbi Hixon, board member of the Stand with Parkland advocacy group. Her husband, Chris, was a victim of last year’s school shooting. On March 31, the Broward County Women’s History Coalition will present the 2019 Broward County Women’s Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Brunch. Among inductees are Parkland Mayor Christine Hunschofsky and County Commissioner Barbara Muhammad Sharief. The event is from 11am-1pm at Carolina Club, 3011 N. Rock Island Rd., Margate. For more information please email Lerner.Beth@gmail.com or call (954) 397-5241.

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

BY CHRISTA MELNYK HINES

VIRTUAL REALITIES S

From sundown March 1 to sundown March 2, people across the globe will detox from technology in honor of the National Day of Unplugging. It’s the perfect time to connect with our families and perhaps to reconsider a risk of being plugged in: how playing video games affects our children’s brains. For more information on the big day, visit www.nationaldayofunplugging.com onna Volpitta’s fifth-grade son is like many boys his age. If kids aren’t coming over to his house to play video games, he’s going to their homes or he’s joining them online. “Just like phones are not evil, video games are not evil. [Digital media] is part of our kids’ world and their social life,” says Volpitta, who is also mom to three other adolescents and the author of The Resilience Formula: A Guide to Proactive-Not Reactive-Parenting. “But, it’s important to teach them mindful use and what video games do to your brain,” she adds. Why a healthy balance matters. It supports your kids’ healthy brain development to balance out their electronics use with both organized activities and unstructured free time to dream and engage in creative pursuits. It also helps them become more conscientious users of technology. Too much screen time starves the cortex of the brain, which is in charge of long-term decision-making, and overfeeds the limbic system, which is the emotional fight-or-flight part of the brain. Over time, this wires the brain for a short attention span, impulsive behavior and an inability to pick up on social cues. While video-gaming can provide a positive way for peers to connect and enhance skills like hand-eye coordination and problem-solving, it doesn’t help kids build resilience in the same way that solving a more complex problem can.

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For example, suppose your child is trying to assemble a paper airplane that flies across the room instead of nosediving the minute it hits the air. He looks up ideas online, tries different techniques, folds, refolds, experiments and tries again. With a pile of frustrated attempts balled up around him, he finally experiences the sweet thrill of success as he tosses a plane into the air and watches it glide gracefully across the room. When we pursue and achieve a hard-won goal, the brain is flooded with dopamine, the reward neurochemical, and serotonin, the self-confidence neurochemical. Furthermore, our persistence and creative problem-solving builds self-esteem and resilience, a skill that will be invaluable as problems crop up throughout life. Unlike more complicated projects that delay gratification, video games offer users short bursts of reward chemicals that often leave the player wanting more. “It’s not that video games don’t offer some level of persistence, but there’s a very straight and narrow path towards that next goal,” Volpitta says. “It’s almost like having a chocolate chip as opposed to a Hershey bar.” The desire for more quick, pleasurable hits of dopamine and serotonin and unlimited access to gaming ultimately primes the brain for addiction. continued on page 14

SCREEN STRAIN PROTECTING YOUR FAMILY’S EYES IN A DIGITAL MEDIA AGE BY KIMBERLY BLAKER As most parents will attest, the amount of time their kids spend plugged-in is excessive. There are many good reasons for parents’ alarm. First, despite the amount of time kids spend on social media, the activity is isolating. Also, the sedentary nature of watching TV or using other digital devices increases the likelihood of childhood obesity. Then there’s the widespread problem that being constantly plugged-in is linked to decreased attention spans. But there’s another issue many parents aren’t familiar with. Digital screens also cause eye damage and vision problems. One of these is called computer vision syndrome, also known as digital eye strain. Most concerning, however, is the permanent damage caused by blue-light. Both of these eye problems affect kids and adults alike.

DIGITAL EYE STRAIN Computer vision syndrome, as explained by the American Optometric Association (AOA), is eye discomfort and vision problems that result from extended viewing of computer screens, e-readers, tablets and cell phones. With this condition, the more time spent on digital devices, the greater the discomfort becomes. According to The Vision Council, the symptoms of computer vision syndrome include eye strain, dry eyes, headache, blurred vision, and neck and shoulder pain. Fortunately, there are several solutions to prevent or cure this syndrome. The first is to set limits on daily leisure media use for your child. In 2016, because of the numerous adverse effects of media consumption, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) announced the following recommendations: • For children 18 months or younger, limit screen media exclusively to video-chatting. • From 18 to 24 months, look for high-quality programming. Although the AAP doesn’t specify an amount of time for this age group, less than one hour a day can be presumed based on the next age group. • For ages 2 to 5 years, allow no more than one hour a day of media. • Kids ages 6 and older should have consistent limits for their total media time plus specific limits on various types of media. The AAP, in recognizing that each family and child is different, hasn’t set a standard amount of time for this age group. However, outside of family media activities and homework, kids should spend only a small fraction of their day plugged-in. continued on page 14

Screen Strain continued from page 13

Virtual Realities

Another way to protect against computer vision syndrome is by wearing computer eyeglasses. If you or your child experience symptoms of digital eye strain, make an appointment with an optometrist for a vision check and to discuss screen-use to determine if computer glasses are the right choice. There are also several other ways to reduce eye strain while using digital devices. When using a computer, the screen should be positioned at an arm’s distance away. Increasing the font size helps to reduce strain as well. Also, to eliminate glare, reduce overhead lighting. Finally, follow the easy-to-remember 20-20-20 rule recommended by the AOA. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second screen break by looking at something 20 feet away.

Choose games wisely. Just as wholesome foods nourish your body, the content we feed the brain influences how we respond to the world. “Continued and excessive exposure to violence puts the child into a reality where violence is an acceptable way of solving different problems,” says pediatrician Raun Melmed, author of the children’s book Timmy’s Monster Diary: Screen Time Stress. “Kids who are exposed to violence are more anxious, more fearful and, very likely, more prone to violence.” Hilary Cash, PhD, agrees. She is the chief clinical officer of reSTART Life, a residential treatment program for Internet and digitaltechnology addiction in adolescents and young adults. She notes research indicating that the levels of empathy among college students have dropped by nearly 40 percent in recent years. “A lot of that is attributed to video games and the antisocial environment of the Internet. People are becoming inured to antisocial behavior and not developing the good emotional and social intelligence needed to promote empathy,” Cash says. Research games that your child wants to play before you buy, and play or watch them together. Seek pro-social games and those that encourage creative problem-solving. Check out CommonSenseMedia.org for ratings and reviews. Establish a media plan. Melmed suggests coming up with a media plan as a family, outlining rules that both parents and kids agree to follow. For example, consider how much video-game time is appropriate each day and when electronics will be powered down each evening to ensure a good night’s sleep. For her family, Volpitta doesn’t allow screen time behind closed doors and limits video games to one hour a day once homework and chores are complete.

BLUE LIGHT HAZARDS Exposure to blue light is another hazard of digital screens. Blue light comes from many sources, including and primarily sunlight as well as LED and fluorescent lighting. But smartphones, flat-screen TVs, computers and electronic notebooks also emit significant amounts of blue light. The reason this is a problem is that our eyes cannot block blue light. As a result, it penetrates the eye lens and cornea and reaches the retina. Prolonged exposure to blue light likely contributes to macular degeneration and vision loss. Blue light also affects the circadian rhythm and throws off the body’s biological clock, according to the Harvard Health Letter, “Blue Light Has a Dark Side.” Night-time light exposure appears to be particularly unhealthy, it said. Numerous studies have linked exposure to light at night (while working the night shift) with breast and prostate cancer, heart disease, diabetes and obesity. Harvard researchers also point out that even dim light affects the circadian rhythm and interferes with melatonin secretion. The resulting lack of sleep then increases the risk for depression. So, there are multiple reasons to reduce your child’s exposure to blue light, as well as yours. In addition to minimizing screen-time, you can: Shut-down devices with digital screens two to three hours before bedtime, if possible, or at least dim the screen light in the evenings. If your child requires a nightlight, use a dim red light, which has the least impact on the circadian rhythm and the eyes. If you or your child spend much time on digital devices or stay up late, wear blue-blocking glasses to reduce the likelihood of damage to your eyes or throwing your circadian rhythm out of balance.

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You might decide to have a digital free day once a week or ban electronic devices in the car or during meal time. “Then you have to make sure meal time is an interesting time as well as a time for sharing and time for interacting,” Melmed advises. By creating realistic limits and understanding how video games impact the brain, you will feel more in control as a parent despite the rapidly changing digital landscape. While your kids probably won’t express appreciation for vigilance, they will feel safer, too. “The brain needs to feel safe and it feels safe with those limits, with knowing that somebody is in control,” Volpitta says. “When we’re afraid of setting those limits, when we’re afraid of technology, it actually makes their brains feel unsafe.” Signs of trouble. Gaming becomes problematic if it is all your child seems to think or talk about, and if he exhibits agitation or anger when you try to set limits. “The similarities between kids who play too many video games for long periods of time and those who are addicted to anything else, from drugs or alcohol or cigarettes, is equivalent,” Melmed says. Signs of gaming abuse and addiction include: • Digital media use for extended periods of time • Problems with school work • Trouble sleeping or sleepiness • Physically overweight or underweight • Infrequent face-to-face interactions with peers • Depression, anxiety or anger To learn more, visit NetAddictionRecovery.com.

IT’S BACK!

21ST ANNUAL

ART FOOD FUN MUSIC

GET READY FOR THE BIGGEST PARTY IN PEMBROKE PINES! This two-day art festival is free to the public and is jam packed with talented artists, cool fun-ﬁlled entertainment, tasty food and refreshments, live handson art demonstrations, a farmer’s market, pop up art on the plaza, a student art competition, a kids art and game zone, adult and children workshops at The Frank Art Gallery, and so much more. Don’t miss it!

THE ARTS WEEKEND AWAITS! MARCH 9 + 10 | 10AM - 5PM CHARLES F. DODGE CITY CENTER 601 CITY CENTER WAY | PEMBROKE PINES, FL WWW.PPINES.COM/ARTFEST 954-392-2122

OFFICIAL SPONSOR

Proudly presented in partnership with

AFIP BFL- 1/3rd PRINT 4.75"x4.75".indd 1

2/6/19 1:28 PM

FREE FAMILY FUN & GIANT PAPER BOAT PARADE Saturday, March 16 1pm to 5pm

Esplanade Park Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk • • • • • •

Giant Paper Boat Parade at 4pm Food Trucks Live Music Bounce Houses Face Painting Meet the Miniature Horses • And much more! All proceeds benefit children’s grief support programs

palmbeachzoo.org 954-978-2390 www.TomorrowsRainbow.org March 2019 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

S U N DAY, MA R C H

PARADE

1 PM

• DOWNTOWN HOLLYWOOD

Pipe & Drum Bands • Emerald Isle Kid’s Zone • Irish Food & Drink

John Byrne Band & U2 BY UV Live in Concert www.stpatricksparade.com • 954.921.3404

Presented by the Hibernians of Hollywood, City of Hollywood and Hollywood Community Redevelopment Agency

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March 23-24 and March 30-31 Get your SLIME ON with your own custom slime in our Slime Room and special SLIME O’CLOCK demonstrations where someone will be “slimed”

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.

photos

Saturday April 20

with the

Easter Bunny

FROM 11AM UNTIL 1PM ARTS N CRAFTS, FACE PAINTING, ACTIVITIES FOR THE KIDS, MUSIC, GIVEAWAYS AND MORE!

TAKE YOUR OWN FREE PHOTOS WITH THE EASTER BUNNY FROM 11AM-3PM!

& EASTER CELEBRATION

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

www.pompanociticentre.com

Free event

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

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

Special Maternity Hospitals

These Broward and south Palm Beach County hospitals offer maternity services. Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Level is set by the state based on staffing and specialization, with Level III being the highest.

To help moms & dads navigate the journey of pregnancy and parenthood, here is a sampling of some of our favorite resources in and around Broward County.

Broward Health Coral Springs

3000 Coral Hills Dr., Coral Springs Childbirth Concierge 954-344-BABY (2229) Births in 2018: 2,161 Private Birthing (Labor & Delivery) suites: 12; Private Recovery (Mother/Baby) suites: 28 NICU Level: II (10 private rooms) Special programs/services: 24hour onsite neonatologist and anesthesiologist, all private postpartum rooms, water birth, OB link, doulas, rooming-in, family-centered care, childbirth classes, pre-natal yoga and siblings class. After baby arrives, sign up for Baby & Me classes or Mommy & Me Yoga.

Broward Health Medical Center 1600 S. Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale 954-355-4400 www.browardhealth.org/MaternityPlace Births (July 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; June 2018): 3711 Birthing suites: 13, plus two surgical suites Special programs/services: Maternity Place at Broward Health Medical Center provides exceptional maternity care in routine and high-risk pregnancies. Specialists including neonatologist, perinatologist and obstetric anesthesiologist are available around-the-clock and expert lactation support is available. Maternity Place supports alternative pain management options including nitrous oxide, hydrotherapy and water birth. The onsite Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is certified as a Regional Perinatal Intensive Care Center, one of only 11 in the state of Florida.

Holy Cross Hospital 4725 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale 954-771-8000 www.holy-cross.com Total births in 2018: 968 Number of LDRs: 12

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NICU Level: II Special programs/services: Baby-Friendly Designated birth facility. Services include childbirth education, infant safety & CPR, lactation education and support.

Memorial Hospital Miramar

1901 SW 172 Ave., Miramar 954-538-5180 www.memorialmiramar.com Birthing suites: 18 NICU Level: II Special programs/services: Professionals help you through every stage of your childbirth journey â&#x20AC;&#x201D; coaching and providing you with the knowledge and support to achieve a safe and treasured experience. Sign up for perinatal classes, breastfeeding classes, lactation consultant, Lamaze, grandparent and sibling classes, Hypnobirthing, natural birthing classes and more.

Memorial Hospital West 703 N. Flamingo Rd., Pembroke Pines 954-844-7248 www.memorialwest.com Birthing suites: 12 Private Postpartum Rooms: 26 NICU Level: II Special programs/services: Nursing staff consistently ranks high with parents for compassion and professionalism. Lactation consultants provide bedside visits. Security officers located at all maternity entrances and exits. Childbirth and breastfeeding classes offered in both English and Spanish. Additional workshops for siblings, grandparents, car seat safety, baby care, infant safety, and CPR. A registered nurse is available for questions from all discharged patients.

Memorial Regional Hospital 3501 Johnson St., Hollywood 954-265-4484 www.memorialregional.com Birthing suites: 14 NICU Level: II and III Special programs/services: High-risk obstetrical care is offered through the Maternal Fetal Medicine Program. Lactation specialists provide breastfeeding support in the hospital as well as free consultations after birth. Special emphasis on preparation and support for parents, with classes in infant safety & CPR, baby care, boot camp for new dads, breastfeeding, infant massage, baby calming, prenatal yoga, and more.

Delivery Northwest Medical Center

Childnet

2801 N. State Road 7, Margate 954-974-0400 www.northwestmed.com NICU Level: III Special programs/services: Northwest offers state-of-the-art maternity care and the only level III NICU in northern Broward County. The nursery includes an advanced security system. Classes are offered in infant CPR & home safety, baby care, childbirth prep, breastfeeding and a breastfeeding support group. Visit Northwestmed.com/calendar to register.

www.childnet.us 954-414-6000

Plantation General Hospital

www.foreverfamily.org 1-888-365-FAMILY

401 NW 42 Ave., Plantation 954-587-5010 www.plantationgeneral.com Birthing suites: 9 LDR, 6 high-risk pregnancy rooms, 7 semi-private rooms, 17 private rooms, 2 spacious deluxe suites NICU: Level II and III Special programs/services: Private postpartum suites and deluxe mother-baby suites, advanced level III NICU, lactation services; childbirth, breastfeeding and CPR education classes, tours, Consult-A-Nurse and follow-up support.

West Boca Medical Center 21644 State Road 7, Boca Raton 561-488-8000 www.westbocamedctr.com Births in 2018: 1,754 Birthing suites: 18 private labor and delivery rooms, 10 semi-private and 5 private postpartum rooms NICU Level: III Special programs/services: West Boca Medical Center is proud to be the first hospital in Florida to have the Joint Commission perinatal care certification and is the only Level III NICU in Boca Raton. Services include lactation consultant and support, maternity education series taught by nurses, and post-partum support.

Adoption Resources A Child is Waiting www.davethomasfoundation.org This free resource takes you through the typical 10 steps to adopt, from thinking about which type of adoption is right for you to celebrating adoption day.

Florida Department of Children and Families

Florida’s Adoption Information Center

families, including siblings, become involved in the events of pregnancy and childbirth in a safe personalized setting. Natural childbirth with the support you need.

www.adoptflorida.com 800-96-ADOPT

Breastfeeding

www.myflfamilies.com 866-762-2237

Forever Family

Jewish Adoptions and Foster Care Options www.jafco.org 954-749-7230

Birthing Centers A Birth Center 3001 W. Hallandale Beach Blvd., Hallandale Beach 954-456-4682 www.abirthcenter.com Alternative maternity care for women who are anticipating a normal, low-risk birth. The team approach includes the client as an equal team member. Every effort is made to create the loving, intimate feeling of an at-home birth, while maintaining safety. Routine gynecological care also available.

Amazing Births & Beyond 17184 W. Dixie Highway, North Miami Beach 954-610-9754 www.amazingbirthsandbeyond.com Expecting moms can learn the techniques of HypnoBirthing, a method that teaches relaxed, natural child birth education enhanced by self-hypnosis, through a series of classes at several locations. Additional services include Doulas, chiropractic care, yoga, massage therapy and more.

Hollywood Birth Center 2316 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood 954-925-4499 www.hollywoodbirthcenter.com A home-like maternity care unit designed to help

Most hospitals offer breastfeeding classes, lactation specialists and support groups. In addition, check out these resources.

Breastfeeding Helpline 1-800-994-9662 www.womenshealth.gov National helpline offers support from trained breastfeeding counselors in both English and Spanish.

Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition of Broward County 954-765-0550 www.hmhbbroward.org/our-programs This community organization is working to improve access to prenatal care, education, advocacy and public awareness for all families in Broward County.

La Leche League www.llli.org Mother-to-mother support, encouragement, information, and education.

Children’s Hospitals & Urgent Care After Hours Pediatric Urgent Care www.afterhourspediatrics.com • 5067 N. Dixie Highway, Oakland Park, 954-267-1621 • 6250 Lantana Rd., Lake Worth, 561-963-4874

Baptist Health Medical Plazas and Urgent Care www.baptisthealthbroward.com • 6264 W. Sample Rd., Coral Springs, 954-837-1010 • 4741 S. University Dr., Davie, 954-837-1050

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

• 15885 Pines Blvd., Pembroke Pines, 954-837-1300 • 1642 Town Center Circle, Weston, 954-837-1150 • 12472 W. Sunrise Blvd., Sunrise, 954-837-1240

Broward Health Coral Springs 3000 Coral Hills Dr., Coral Springs 954-344-3000 www.browardhealth.org

Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital 1005 Joe DiMaggio Dr., Hollywood 954-265-5324 www.jdch.com

Memorial Hospital Miramar 1901 SW 172 Ave., Miramar 954-538-5000 www.memorialmiramar.com

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Miramar Outpatient Center 12246 Miramar Parkway, Miramar 954-442-0809 www.nicklauschildrens.org

Northwest Medical Center 2801 N. State Road 7, Margate 954-974-0400 www.northwestmed.com

Pediatric Associates www.pediatricassociates.com Multiple locations throughout Broward County.

Plantation General Hospital 401 NW 42 Ave., Plantation 954-587-5010 www.plantationgeneral.com

Salah Foundation Children’s Hospital Broward Health 1600 S. Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale 954-355-4400 www.browardhealth.org

Crisis Assistance 211 First Call for Help dial 2-1-1- or 954-537-0211 www.211-broward.org By simply dialing 211, residents can access Broward County’s nationally accredited comprehensive helpline for information and referrals to all kinds of support, health and human services. Free, confidential, and available for assistance 24 hours.

MOMS Clubs www.momsclub.org Connect with other moms in your neighborhood for social gatherings, playdates and more. Chapters exist in many communities, or get support to start your own club.

Mothers of Preschoolers www.mops.org Meet other like-minded moms through this international support network of Christian women with preschool children. Groups meet regularly at churches in Fort Lauderdale, Miramar, Coral Springs, Davie, Pompano Beach, Boca Raton, and other communities. Check their website for locations.

Supermoms of Broward www.supermomsofbroward.com Local group of members who chat online and gather in real life, either via planned playdates, parties or other events.

Parent Workshops Infant Massage Teaches expectant parents simple hands-on techniques to quickly calm their baby’s cries. Memorial Regional Hospital, 954-265-4484, www.memorialregional.com; and Memorial Miramar, 954-538-5180, www.memorialmiramar.com

Boot Camp for New Dads A unique father-to-father workshop in which a veteran dad shows new fathers the ropes on how to care for their babies. Memorial Regional Hospital, 3501 Johnson St., Hollywood, 954-265-4484

Baby Care

954-761-1133 www.womenindistress.org Provides victims of domestic violence with crisis intervention, advocacy, support and shelter.

Learn about caring for a newborn, how babies look and act, and when to call the pediatrician. Includes hands-on practice bathing, dressing and diapering a baby. Offered at Memorial Regional Hospital, 954-265-4484, www.memorialregional.com; Memorial Hospital West, 954-844-7110, www.memorialwest.com; and Memorial Hospital Miramar, 954-538-5180, www.memorialmiramar.com

Infertility

Postpartum Depression

Women in Distress

Resolve www.resolve.org A national nonprofit support group to assist couples dealing with infertility issues.

Medical Insurance Florida KidCare 888-540-5437 www.floridakidcare.org Free or low-cost health insurance for children, sponsored by the state of Florida.

Moms’ Groups South Florida Mothers of Multiples

MOMS (Mothers Overcoming Maternal Stress) 954-765-0550 www.hmhbbroward.org Program of the Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition provides counseling and services to women suffering from maternal depression through group classes and in-home visits, both pre- and post-natal. Counselors available 24/7.

Postpartum Support International 800-944-4773 www.postpartum.net Postpartum Support Online www.ppdsupportpage.com

(formerly Coral Springs Mothers of Multiples) www.csmoms.org Provides understanding, guidance, and educationto moms raising multiple birth children.

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Special Needs Child Find 754-321-7200 www.browardschools.com Child Find is a public program that works to ensure that all children who need special education and related services receive a free appropriate education. Serves as entry point for services from birth to age 5.

Health Care Clinics of Nova Southeastern University 3301 College Ave., Fort Lauderdale 954-678-2273 www.nova.edu/healthcare NSU offers a range of clinic operations with services ranging from medical care, psychological services, speech and communications therapy, hearing and balance center, and more.

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Dan Marino Outpatient Center 2900 S. Commerce Parkway, Weston 954-385-6200 www.nicklauschildrens.org Not-for-profit center offers comprehensive evaluation and treatment of children with special needs.

Unicorn Children’s Foundation Clinics Nova Southeastern University 3301 College Ave., Fort Lauderdale 954-262-CARE www.nova.edu/unicornclinics Expert clinicians provide comprehensive spectrum of services including development assessment, diagnostics, autism education, assistance with feeding disorders and parent training to deal with challenging behaviors.

Support for Parents Children’s Services Council 954-377-1000 www.cscbroward.org Agency created by voters to provide leadership, coordination and funding for children’s services. See website for list of funded programs.

Family Central 1415 W. Cypress Creek Rd., Fort Lauderdale 954-720-1000 www.familycentral.org Not-for-profit agency offers childcare assistance, counseling, education, family therapy and more.

Healthy Mothers/Healthy Babies Coalition 954-765-0550 www.hmhbbroward.org Community organization aimed at reducing infant mortality through education on maternal health, father involvement, safe sleeping environments and breastfeeding. HMHB is dedicated to providing resources and education to pregnant women, new parents and families.

The Parenting Place NSU’s Mailman Segal Center for Human Development, 7600 SW 36 St., Davie 954-262-7127 www.nova.edu/humandevelopment The Parenting Place offers many support groups and classes for infants, toddlers, preschoolers and parents. Expectant families can prepare for their new addition, and new moms and dads can discover the wonders of their amazing newborn. The Parenting Place also offers support with sleepless nights, fussy babies, and willful toddlers. One-on-one parent coaching available.

Broward AWARE! Protecting OUR Children presents:

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

Connect

with Us! Follow us on social media and sign up to receive our emails at southfloridafamilylife.com

Me & my dad challenge March 30, 2019 JOSEPH C. CARTER PARK 11AM-2PM

FREE & FUN FOR ALL AGES

Join us and 103.5 The Beat’s Papa Keith for a day of fun and engaging activities where fathers and other male positive role models and their children participate in physical and mental challenges like obstacle courses, a kickball tournament, swim safety, 3-point shootout, how well do you know your child/dad and more! Lots of raffle prizes, free food and refreshments and resources for the whole family. For more information go to www.cscbroward.org or call 954-765-0550.

Stay in the loop of upcoming giveaways, local events and more @browardfamilylife

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

FAMILY health

Taming the Time Change BYPASS BEDTIME CHAOS WHEN THE CLOCKS SPRING FORWARD BY MALIA JACOBSON

f you’ve got little ones at home, chances are you’re not a fan of “spring forward,” the annual Daylight Saving Time ritual that throws off bedtime for kids from coast to coast. When clocks jump ahead one hour in the spring — on Sunday, March 10, this year — the most common complaint from parents is that kids won’t go to bed “on time.” It’s not hard to understand why: When the clock reads 8pm, your child’s body thinks it’s 7. When 9 or 10pm rolls around and kids still aren’t tired, parents

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get understandably grumpy. It’s not just bedtime that gets wonky: Many parents find that DST throws off kids’ wake times and nap times, too. An hour’s worth of time change is a lot for little bodies to handle; for a baby or toddler, it’s akin to jet lag. Some particularly sensitive kids (or those who are already overtired) can take days — or weeks — to adapt to the new time shown on the clock. Want to help your little one take the time change in stride? Here’s how to

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“spring forward” without missing a beat. (For simplicity, this example uses a 7am wake-up and a 7pm bedtime. Adjust as needed for your family.) RISE AND SHINE The key to helping your child fall asleep at his normal bedtime on clock-change day is waking him up earlier that morning, and for a few mornings preceding the change. Here’s why: If he sleeps until his body’s regular wake-up time (say, 7am) on clock-change day, the clock will read 8. If you try to put him to bed that night at

7pm, his regular bedtime, only 11 hours have elapsed since he woke up, and he’s not likely to be tired enough to go to sleep. This is especially true if he slept a bit later than normal that morning. DST occurs on a weekend, so many parents allow children to sleep later than normal. During the rest of the year, sleeping in up to an hour on weekends isn’t a big problem, but when you add the time change, things can quickly go awry. PLANNING AHEAD The best way to avoid any sleep disruption: plan in advance. Beginning two to three days before the change, begin waking your child 30 minutes earlier in the morning, and putting her to bed 30 minutes earlier at night. For babies and young children who still nap, make corresponding adjustments to naps by moving them 30 minutes earlier as well. In this example, that would mean waking your child at 6:30am and putting her to bed at 6:30pm. (This may sound like an extremely early bedtime, but it’s only for a couple of days.) On the morning of DST, wake your child at his normal wake-up time. If he normally wakes at 7am Standard time, wake him at 7 Daylight time. (This will actually be 6am, according to his body clock, but you’ve prepped him for this change with a couple days of early wakeups.) Offer naps at the normal times. No need to make adjustments here. Having awakened at 7am, he’ll be ready for sleep at his normal bedtime. LAST-MINUTE HELP No time to prep your child a couple of days before the time change? No problem. Just remember to wake your child at her normal wake-up time (not the adjusted time) on clock-change day. If she normally wakes at 7am, get her up at 7 — her body will still think it’s 6am, so she’ll probably still be snoozing and she’ll be tired, because she lost an hour of sleep. But she will be ready to sleep at her regular bedtime that night. (And you won’t have a wide-awake kid bouncing off the walls while you’re trying to watch TV!)

PalmBeachZoo.org I (561) 547-WILD (9453) 1301 Summit Blvd., West Palm Beach, FL 33405 Open Daily 9am-5pm I I-95 Exit 68 I Free Parking

Malia Jacobson is a sleep coach and journalist whose latest book is Sleep Tight, Every Night: Helping Toddlers and Preschoolers Sleep Well Without Tears, Tricks, or Tirades. She’s also a mom of three presumably well-rested kids. March 2019 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

FAMILY man

Laughing Matters A DAD DISCOVERS THE MUTUAL JOYS OF JOKING AROUND WITH THE KIDS BY GREGORY KEER

ou know that refreshed feeling when you get home from a long day of hitting deadlines and sitting through meetings at work? The rush of energy that comes after driving in traffic and realizing there’s still dinner to be made and cleaned up? The burst of cognitive ability and stamina that magically materializes with each kid’s request to help with drawing a map of Europe or explaining the importance of long division? Yeah, me neither. I could continue recounting the reasons why I’m too exhausted to enjoy being a parent, something I occasionally do in my columns, but I’m here to write about something that makes me feel better despite the real effort it requires. Something that I often forget to draw on in my endeavors to take life seriously. That is, I need to take life a little less seriously. This hardly earth-shattering realization started one evening after I gave my first child a bath when he was just shy of two years old. Kept awake and a tad grumpy by his splashing me with watermelon soap-infused bathwater, I reached for a terrycloth towel that had a little hood on it. In a moment of inspiration, I packed my son into a robe and put the hooded towel over my head. “Dadda wearing my towel,” he said with a giggle. “Yes, yes, I am,” I replied, wondering what to do next. More giggles — just for wearing a child-sized towel on my head. “I’m wearing this because ... I am Towel Man!” I announced. Then, with my son on one arm, I intentionally walked into the bathroom door — slapping my hand to make a loud

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noise — as if I’d somehow mistaken it for being open. Now, we had chuckles from the boy. I threw open the door and proceeded to bump into walls and more doors, making myself exhausted but procuring

father feigns injury — and occasionally real, though mild, pain — all over the house? As the kids got older, the purposely slapstick stuff got old, too. Yet the desire to make them laugh, and thereby perk myself

peals of laughter from my son who kept exclaiming, “Again! Again, Towel Man!” From that night on, Towel Man made many appearances to save the day not only for my first son but for my next two boys. They all loved it. And what child doesn’t love going along for the ride while his

up, continued. So I developed a repertoire of other comedic tools, including going trick-or-treating in my children’s old Halloween costumes, which clearly did not fit without some creative application. There have also been the time-tested Dad Jokes, including ones my father used.

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“Hi, kiddo, you look different,” I’d say. “Of course I do,” they’d say. “I got a haircut.” “Looks like you got ’em all cut.” The key with Dad Jokes is understanding that they don’t have to be all that creative or even clever. You merely have to say them, with every bit of the cornball quality they contain. If it makes them smile, great. If it makes them squirm from embarrassment, even better. Not all tools of silliness need to be original. I spent hours in brick-and-mortar and online stores finding humorous picture books, then chapter books as the kids grew. Some of the favorites included Goodnight Gorilla, with its hilarious drawings, and the more obscure The Naughty Prince, which I would read with a terrible French accent. Foreign voices were a big hit with my boys, who liked hearing me try my hand at character work. Then, there’s TV and film. Through the years, I’ve watched Sesame Street and Dora the Explorer and, later, Disney and Nickelodeon sitcoms, not because they entertained me but because it was a joy to watch my kids guffaw. Lately, I’ve been watching the prime-time show The Goldbergs with my youngest son. It’s over-the-top and cartoony at times, but, man, is it ever funny and relatable. How can you not laugh at parents who make so many mistakes and still manage to have their kids see them as loving, caring people? For movies, I’ve been able to be pickier in selecting Shrek and The Sandlot, as well as screening Mel Brooks and Jim Carrey classics as the boys have gotten older. What has been important through all of this is that I have partaken of as much silliness as possible with my kids. It’s not enough for them to enjoy it all on their own. I’ve wanted — and often needed — to experience the laughter with them. While it does indeed get harder to get your kids’ attention with a litany of puns or an invitation to watch a Marx Brothers oldie when they could be out with friends, it’s always worth the effort. Even if they don’t laugh audibly, I can somehow manage a smile from them. For that, I’m forever happy to run into a door. Gregory Keer is an award-winning syndicated columnist, teacher and guest expert in national media. March 2019 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

BOCA MUSEUM ART SCHOOL SUMMER CAMP

BOCA MUSEUM

2019

ART SCHOOL

SUMMER

CAMP SHOWCASE FINDING THE PERFECT CAMP PROGAM CAN TAKE WORK, BUT IT’S A WORTHWHILE INVESTMENT OF TIME.

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

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

www.bocamuseum.org/artschool

Cartooning, painting, sculpting, drawing, and active play 561.392.2503

THE PAYOFF? SUMMER FUN YOUR CHILD WON’T FORGET.

So much fun kids don’t know they’re learning! Boca Museum Art School 801 West Palmetto Park Road Boca Raton, FL 33486 www.bocamuseum.org/artschool

561.392.2503

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SUMMER CAMP SHOWCASE

summer

exploration camp

2019

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

SUMMER EXPLORATION CAMP FEATURES

CHILDREN ENTERING KINDERGARTEN

u hands-on experiences through purposefully, planned curricula

At this literacy-based camp, teachers utilize children’s previously acquired knowledge to further develop math, science, and reading within a constructivist framework that incorporates the arts.

u nurturing opportunities in science, nature, cooking, art, music, and movement u open-ended exploration of light, sound, and natural materials

For more information, please contact us at (954) 262-6918 or visit nova.edu/preschoolsummer. 01-013-19RNK

NORA A. KREGER

C A M P A M I D K A “I hope my parents signed me up for Camp Kadima!” 18 MOS - 9TH GRADE

5850 S. PIne Island Rd. Davie, FL 33328 dpjcc.org | 954-434-0499

Membership NOT required Open to the community

INFO & REGISTRATION: DPJCC.ORG/CAMPKADIMA · 954-434-0499, EXT. 202 28

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SUMMER FUN

at Camp Nova for ages 5 - 17

Camp Activities Archery Arts and Crafts Camp Olympics Cartooning Ceramics Cheerleading Coding

Cooking Dance Digital Photography Electric Game Design Field Trips Halloween in July Innovation

Jr. Marine Biologist Martial Arts Robotics Science Sports Swimming Wacky Wednesdays

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

Junior Lifeguard Lacrosse Marine Science Overnight Soccer

Speech and Debate Teen Travel Tennis Theatre Volleyball

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

Camp Dates

June 10 - August 2 Two-Week Sessions Available Post Camp Sessions run from August 5 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 16 (daily field trips) NEW! Camp hours are: 9:00 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4:30 p.m. (before and after care available) Hot lunches and snacks are included.

APRIL 12 and receive

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

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

SUMMER CAMP SHOWCASE

Island City Adventure Summer Camp 2019 The City of Wilton Manors Summer Camp is designed as a highly structured nine week program with the ultimate fun plan before school starts. The Leisure Services Department has organized a specialty camp that is supervised by our certified Recreation and Childcare Professional. The rates include: lunch, snack, 3 trips per week, Friday events and cultural classes.

JUNE 10-AUGUST 9, 2019 7:30AM-6:00PM (9 Week Program)

REGISTRATION FEE: $20 per child/$30 per family

(one time non-refundable registration fee)

RESIDENT RATE: $120 Weekly â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1st Child

$100 Weekly â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Addtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;l Child

NON-RESIDENT RATE: $140 Weekly â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1st Child

$120 Weekly â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Addtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;l Child THREE 3-WEEK SESSIONS: RESIDENT RATE: $300 each Session NON-RESIDENT RATE: $360 each Session FREE T-SHIRT IF REGISTERED BY MAY 10, 2019 LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE

For more information, please contact or visit: City of Wilton Manors, Hagen Park Community Center 2020 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors 33305

954-390-2130 30

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www.wiltonmanors.com

SUMMER CAMP SHOWCASE

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

SUMMER CAMP SHOWCASE

LANGUAGE

SUMMER CAMP SPANISH | ENGLISH | FRENCH

nd visit Come aAcres of Our 5

CAMP TRUpEerience! Ex

Camp Chameleon For ages 5-15 Awesome Summer Camp Fun since 2009!

Activities Gardening Language Lessons Color Wars Horseback Riding RC Track Barn Care Tree Climbing Arts & Crafts Soccer Fishing Basketball Archery Field Trips Pottery Paintball Mixed Media Art Flag Football Beach Days

Science Experiments Jewelry Table Tennis Music Dance Yoga Gaga Ball Team Building

Leadership and Independence Skill-Building and so much more!

9 March 25-2 ols m local scho cking up fro Available pi

Ea le rly Also Availab lans Bird Discounts & Payments P

(954)-642-CAMP

4700 DYKES RD. SW RANCHES, FL 33331

BFLTS /camplingua

Activities involve nature/fishing creative arts, aquatics, athletics, and DAILY field trips. Field trips include: water parks, pools, ice/roller skating, laser tag, trampoline/bounce house centers, arcades, movies, bowling and more!

June June 10 10 -- August August 2, 2, 2019 2019

954-815-9054

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

www.campchameleon.com www.campchameleon.com

Ages 3â&#x20AC;&#x201C;4 and Ages 5+ Enrollment begins March 4TH, 2019!

PASSPORT TO THE WORLD SUMMER ARTS CAMP

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

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SUMMER CAMP SHOWCASE

CAMP CAMBRIDGE

Keep cool in our pool! • On-site swimming pool supervised by Red Cross-trained staff • Experienced and mature staff • In-house field trips • Flexible schedules • Weekly sessions • Private and group swimming lessons

offered at all 4 Coral Springs 954.796.1177 Lic # 46437

Pembroke Pines 954.430.3388 Lic # 46446

locations Wellington 561.791.0013 Lic # 50-51-0415323

Weston 954.217.8566 Lic # 46436

www.cambridgepreschools.com

Summer Camps at

Creative Child Learning Center Themed Camps for Infants* - Fifth Grade

Fun, Educational, Themed Camp Options: Camp Explorer, STEM Camps, Cooking Camp and Preschool Camps Offering Themed, Age-Appropriate Activities! *Infants at Davie and Weston Locations Only

For more information visit CreativeChildLearningCenter.com

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

Davie – Plantation 1305 SW 101st Road Davie, FL 33324 (954) 452-3346

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

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

SUMMER CAMP SHOWCASE For Children ages 5-12 years

2019 CAMP ADVENTURES

Give your child an unforgettable experience at Camp Discovery, our day camp and summer camp program for children ages 6 through 12. Camp Discovery gives campers days filled with exploration and hands-on learning.

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

LIMITED SEATS AVAILABLE...........HURRY NOW!!

(before and after care is available)

Downtown Fort Lauderdale

For more information call 954.713.0930 or visit mods.org/programs/camp-discovery

954-654-4091

Monarch Lakes Park, 2150 SW 136 AVE, Miramar, FL 33027

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SUMMER CAMP SHOWCASE

Most Awarded Studio!

Registration Open For Spring Break Camp!

BroadwayKidsStudio.com

954.693.7500

CAMP asp It’s all about the children Camp ASP Enrichment $140 per week

AM Enrichment Activities

PM INSTRUCTED ACTIVITY SCHEDULE: 3 trips per Week BY SCHOOL BOARD TEACHERS FROM EACH SCHOOL PM Activity Schedule:2 Trips per Week

CAMP RENEGADE

LOCATIONS Park Trails Elementary in Parkland Mantee Bay Elementary in Weston Mirror Lake Elementary in Plantation MirrorWinston Lake Elementary in Plantation Park Elementary in Coconut Creek

Winston Park Elementary in Coconut Creek Camp ASP On – Site: $115 Tradewinds Elementary in Coconut Creek On-Campus Activities: 2 Trips per Week Palm Cove Elementary in LOCATIONS Pembroke Pines Chapel Trail Elementary in in West Pembroke Pines Chapel Trail Elementary West Pembroke Pines Hollywood Central ($95 per week) Sheridan Hills Elementary in Central Hollywood Tradewinds Elementary in Coconut Creek Sheridan Hills Elementary ininCentral Hollywood Sheridan Hills Elementary Central Hollywood Central Elementary inHollywood Hollywood ($90 perCamp week – 2 Trips per Week) ASP & Renegade at Parks Camp Renegade at CB Smith Park for only $95 per week!

DAILY FIELD TRIPS WITH NO ACTIVITY FEES! LOCATIONS Alphabetland Pre-School in Margate Renegade Coconut Creek Alphabetland Pre-School in Lauderdale Margate Aphabetland Pre-School in North Renegade Coconut Creek Renegade North Lauderdale

Alphabetland Pre-School North Lauderdale Renegade North Lauderdale

CAMPS OPEN CAMPS 7:30AM –OPEN 6:00PM | SERVING CHILDREN AGES 6CHILDREN THROUGH 13AGES (must6have completed 7:30AM–6:00PM | SERVING THROUGH 13 kindergarten) have completed kindergarten) Registration Fee at out(must Elementary Schools: $12.00 per Child or $18.00 per Family Early Registration $35.00 per family (by May 1st ) | Regular Registration $45 per family (by June 1st ) | Late Registration $55 per family (after June 1st)

Registration Fee at our Elementary Schools: $30 DISCOUNTS: per Family MULTIPLE CHILD 20%• MULTIPLE CHILD DISCOUNTS: 20%

For a full summer schedule or any other information, by yourschedule ASP Program give For a full stop summer or or any a call! information, stopusby your ASP Program orCorporate give usOffices: a call! 5700 Horizons Land Corporate Offices: Horizons Lane Margate,5700 FL 33063

Margate, FL 33063 954-596-9000 954-596-9000 1-888-720-2882 www.aspkids.com www.aspkids.com www.camprenegade.com www.camprenegade.com

Licensed & Insured.Licensed We do and notInsured. discriminate against any We doon notthe discriminate against any child on the basis of religion, child basis of religion, race, national origin,race, sex national origin, sex, or handicap. or handicap. *Discount not offered at our $85 and $95 flat rate camps.

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

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SUMMER CAMP SESSIONS Session A: June 10th - July 5th Resident Fee: $340.00 Non-Resident Fee: $355.00 Session B: July 8th- August 2nd Resident Fee: $340.00 Non-Resident: $355.00 Full Program: June 10th-August 2nd Resident Fee: $650.00 Non-Resident: $675.00 Download the Summer Camp Registration Packet at

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

For more information please call 924-424-7405 or email

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SPECIAL SECTION

Grand

RElATiONSHiP The Grandparent-Grandchild Bond —— It’s a Win-Win BY SHANNON DEAN

e’ve all seen giddy grandparents in the park eagerly complying with their grandchild’s excited pleas: “Higher, Grandpa, higher!” The bond between a child and his grandparents is entirely obvious, heartwarming and universal. “It’s the only relationship in which people are crazy about one another simply because they’re breathing,” says Dr. Arthur Kornhaber, author of The Grandparent Guide and founder of The Foundation for Grandparents. Children and their grandparents usually “have an adoration and unconditional love and joy in one another’s existence,” he adds.

BENEFITS FOR GRANDCHILDREN Experts say that the physical, spiritual and emotional benefits of a healthy grandparent-child relationship are significant for all parties. Grandparents help children gain a sense of history, heritage and identity and provide a vital connection to the past. Like no one else, grandparents can pass on important family traditions and life stories that a grandchild will not only relish when young, but will grow to appreciate even more over time. Children with involved grandparents learn that they can love and depend upon someone other than their parents. Susan Bosak, the author of How to Build the Grandma Connection, says children who have strong ties with involved, caring grandparents develop higher self-esteem, better emotional and social skills (including an ability to withstand peer pressure) and enhanced academic performance. Since grandparents’ parenting and intense work commitments are usually no longer in play, they have the time to offer the undivided attention that tired, busy parents sometimes can’t. 38

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Bosak often hears children explain that grandparents are always happy to give them the “real scoop” on family stories that their parents would rather they not hear, like the time that Dad hit a baseball through the kitchen window.

BENEFITS FOR GRANDPARENTS Likewise, grandparents also reap numerous benefits from a close relationship with their grandchildren. The desire to be present as a child grows has encouraged many grandparents to remain active, to educate themselves on current events and issues important to children and to fiercely protect their own health. Cindy Giallombardo was struggling with painful multiple myeloma (plasma cell cancer) when her first grandchild was born. She was devastated by the fear that she wouldn’t have much time to spend with him, but when he wrapped his tiny fingers around hers, she vowed that she would never give up on treatment. Because she wanted to see her grandson reach major milestones, she explored every treatment option available, even those that were painful or experimental, a road she may not have taken without the motivation of a grandchild. Her grandson, now 7, has no idea that he’s been such a huge motivation for his grandmother. He only knows that “she loves me more than anything” and that he takes great pleasure in riding on her scooter and swinging on her tire swing. He also loves hearing about the time his mom lost control of a golf cart, ran it into a ditch and took the family’s mailbox with it. Not all grandparents are able to be as hands-on as they might like, but even those who live far away from their grandchildren can still have a huge impact. With a little effort and some help from modern technology, the relationship can still grow and endure. “Being a grandparent is not an honorary position,” says Allan Zullo, a grandfather who co-wrote A Boomer’s Guide to Grandparenting.

“We have a strong role to play even if we’re not living in the same town. We can still have a great impact on someone’s life and we want to share the good things we have learned to make someone’s life better.” He encourages long-distance grandparents to share any hobbies that interest their grandchildren and to then schedule the time to work on mutual projects. That could mean that they both complete quilt squares while apart and then get together to complete the quilt, or work on separate cars for one model train that they’ll connect during spring break. Some other ideas to keep ties strong: Consider allowing children to spend part of school breaks or summers with their grandparents. Use the Internet or cell phones to play games together and to chat. Send texts, emails and photos. (If grandparents aren’t logged on, children also love to receive snail mail.) Ask grandparents to video or audio record themselves reading a favorite book or sharing their stories and memories. Finally, allow and encourage grandchildren to ask lots of questions. Grandparents love to share stories and children love to hear them.

BENEFITS FOR PARENTS Experts say that a smart parent will make every effort to forge strong bonds between their children and a grandparent (or even a grandparent figure.) Who else truly understands, loves and values the children in the same way that the parents do? Better yet, grandparents are usually more than happy to give parents a break from child-rearing every now and then. By showing their children that they greatly value their grandparents, parents are teaching the importance of maintaining close family ties, a skill that they will certainly want their children to master by the time they have their own kids. Zullo says that encouraging a loving relationship with grandparents is a special advantage that parents can easily provide. “What a gift,” he says, “a family history, a sense of family and their roots.”

‘Grandma, tell me…’ Here are 20 questions youngsters can ask their grandparents to spark intimate and revealing conversations: 1

What was the best birthday you ever had? Why?

Did you get an allowance? How much?

Tell me about your parents. Were they strict?

What did your house look like? What was your favorite memory in it?

How did you do in school? What were your favorite subjects? Why?

What time was your curfew when you were a teenager? Where did everyone hang out?

What was your first car?

What was your first job?

What makes you proud of my mom or dad?

Did you have any pets growing up?

What attribute do you think is most important in life? Why?

Is there anything that I can teach you?

What is your greatest wish for me?

What advice would you most want me to remember?

What is the worst thing my mom/dad ever did?

What is the best meal you ever had?

What was your favorite vacation?

Do you have any talents? Can you teach me?

What is your favorite book or movie? Why is it meaningful to you?

What is your proudest accomplishment?

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

SENIOR scene

Rock & Roll Never Forgets BY GREG CARANNANTE

hen Detroit rocker Bob Seger first sang that song in 1977, he couldn’t have known how true his words would ring in 2019. In fact, the yearnings of music fans to “never forget” has given rise to one of the hottest trends in concert-going: the tribute show. Once a novelty, tribute acts have come a long way since the days of Las Vegas Elvis impersonators. Tribute performers now mimic the music, style, appearance and, sometimes, name of just about any popular act, from Motown to McCartney, from crooners to rockers, from those who’ve passed on to those still very much live and in concert. Whether as costumed revues or glorified cover bands, these acts are commanding stages nationally and locally, evoking memories for fans while giving them the next best thing to seeing their favorite performers live — at a fraction of the price. Just last month alone, Broward venues hosted shows that celebrated more than 10 all-time performers, including John Denver, ABBA, The Temptations, The Four Tops, Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin, Donna Summer, Hank Williams and Patsy Cline — and Neil Diamond twice by two different impersonators. And this month, the tribute spotlight is even more crowded on local stages. (See the sidebar for highlights.) “So many of music’s great artists have passed or bands have stopped touring together, yet the sounds and music are the landscape of our memories and lifetimes,” says William Haggett, general manager of The Center in Coral Springs, a regular presenter of the shows. “It is wonderful that talented musicians have taken up the torch to keep this history alive.” No doubt a major reason for the tribute boom is its appeal to a boomer generation looking for a flashback to its youthful glory days. But many of the concerts are also entertaining showcases for otherwise undiscovered, talented artists who can impress on their own terms — and somehow at the same time leave audiences appreciating the original all the more. “In the past, most tribute acts were

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

Tony Kishman impersonates Paul McCartney

destined for bars or nightclubs. What we find today is that many of these acts have taken their gifts and presentation to such a high level that they have become very high in demand,” Haggett says. Case in point is Rus Anderson, one very “in-demand” impersonator of Elton John, whose Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour stops at Sunrise’s BB&T Center March 16. At his Rocket Man Show at Broward Center last year, it was obvious that the 34-year-old Clearwater resident was a formidable talent in his own right, not one merely riding the sequined coattails of the flamboyant pop icon. Anderson easily had the crowd of grandparents to grandkids crocodile-rocking with a voice and

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the percussive piano pyrotechnics evocative of the young Elton, standing on the bench in a suit of giant rainbow-colored ostrich feathers and 8-inch-heel space boots bestowed upon him by Captain Fantastic himself. That’s right, Anderson had been given the most persuasive of endorsements — from none other than Sir Reg, who had tapped the impersonator to enact his early performances in promotions for his farewell tour, mentoring him over the course of a year in all things Elton. While for Anderson it was the impersonator’s dream come true, certainly not all tribute acts come with such bona fides. But that doesn’t keep them from coming… and coming.

A Month of Musical Flashbacks Here are the highlights of March shows that will help audiences relive the good old days — even if only for a couple of hours: Turnstiles: The Ultimate Tribute to the Music of Billy Joel. March 1, 8pm, Coral Springs Center for the Arts. A lifelong fan of the Piano Man, Tony Monaco used that inspiration to grow as a pianist, vocalist and songwriter… and now, a tribute artist. Experience Hendrix. March 3, 7:30pm, Pompano Beach Amphitheater. A band of rock veterans, led by Jimi’s bass player, Bill Cox, conjure the feedback experience of one of rock’s original guitar gods. Paul Anka Sings Sinatra: His Songs, My Songs, My Way. March 4, 8pm, Broward Center for the Performing Arts. The old teen idol presents his personal homage to Ol’ Blue Eyes. Full Moon Fever: One Night of Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers. March 5, 8pm, Coral Springs Center for the Arts. The premier Petty tribute band features a faithful recreation of an actual Heartbreakers concert. Divas By D.A.W.N.: A Tribute to Diana, Aretha, Whitney, & Natalie Cole. March 8, 9:30pm, Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. A one-woman/four-diva tribute by Carlene Mitchell. Stayin’ Alive: One Night of the Bee Gees. March 8, 8pm, Parker Playhouse. You should be dancin’. Yeah. Rain: A Tribute to The Beatles. March 8, 8pm, Hard Rock Event Center. The longest-running Beatles tribute act marks the 50th anniversary of the Abbey Road album. Chris MacDonald’s Memories of Elvis. March 9, 7:30pm, Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. With a band, singers and dancers, the Las Vegas-style national touring production channels the King from the hip-shaking ’50s to the white-fringe ’70s.

A Bowie Celebration: The David Bowie Alumni Tour. March 16, 8pm, Parker Playhouse. Friends, bandmates and Bowie-influenced musicians keep his memory and music alive with a mix of hits and deep tracks performed Bowie-style. One Night in Memphis: A Tribute to Presley, Perkins, Lewis & Cash. March 16, 8pm, Coral Springs Center for the Arts. Hound Dog, Blue Suede Shoes, Great Balls of Fire, Folsom Prison Blues. Need we say more? Get Happy: Angela Ingersoll Sings Judy Garland. March 21, 8pm, Parker Playhouse. In one of the few pre-boomer tributes, the award-winning Ingersoll portrays the vocal power and passion of the ’50s personification of A Star Is Born. Live and Let Die: The Music of Paul McCartney. March 22, 8pm, Coral Springs Center for the Arts. No matter that the irrepressible septuagenarian is still out there “yeah-yeah-yeahing” in South America this month, Tony Kishman, from Broadway’s Beatlemania, and his band recreate classics from both the Beatles’ and Paul’s solo catalogs. Love Is a Rose: Celebrating the Music of Linda Ronstadt. March 29, 8pm, Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Musicians and vocalists Paula Hanke and Peggy Ratusz, who grew up idolizing Ronstadt’s music, take audiences on a chill ride through the big-voiced singer’s career. Dark Star Orchestra. March 30, 7pm, Pompano Beach Amphitheater. Thanks to a succession of still-touring reincarnations featuring surviving members, the Grateful Dead is still very much alive. Apparently that’s not enough for the Deadheads, though, so the 20-year-old Dark Star Orchestra continues to revive actual Dead setlists or create new ones from the legendary San Francisco band’s exhaustive catalog.

VENUES Aventura Arts & Cultural Center 3385 NE 188th St., 305-466-8002, www.aventuracenter.org

Hard Rock Event Center One Seminole Way, Hollywood, 866-502-7529, www.seminolehardrockhollywood.com

Broward Center for the Performing Arts 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-0222, www.browardcenter.org

Parker Playhouse 707 NE Eighth St., Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-0222, www.parkerplayhouse.com

Coral Springs Center for the Arts 2855 Coral Springs Dr., 954-344-5990, www.thecentercs.com

Pompano Beach Amphitheater 1806 NE Sixth St., Pompano Beach, www.theamppompano.org

AmericanAirlines Arena

MAR 21 – 24 BB&T Center

MAR 28 – 31 DisneyOnIce.com March 2019 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

REMEMBER when

‘Please proceed to the route’ HOW WE ALL LEARNED TO STOP WORRYING ABOUT GETTING LOST BY GREG CARANNANTE

emember when you used to ask for directions? Or use a map? Or try to fold a map? Now, remember when you stopped having to do all that? It was no doubt when you began using your GPS, those three little letters that stand for Go Please, Stupid … I mean, Global Positioning System. There hasn’t been a technological advance that’s made it easier to make your way to just about anywhere since the invention of the automobile, has there? I don’t think so. Hold on, let me ask Siri…. Siri says, “Go Please, Stupid.” The other day, I got a call from an old friend from Colorado who visits every year. We made plans for him to come over that night, and I absent-mindedly asked, “Remember how to get here?”

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

“I’ll just use my GPS,” he said, matter-offactly. Of course. How dinosaur-ish of me. Nobody needs to remember how to get here, there or anywhere no matter where they may be these days. I relish the freedom to buckle myself into the driver’s seat without the slightest hunch of how to get where I’m going, knowing that with my GPS I can get there every time without a hitch. Not including those one or two occasions when it steered me wrong and I arrived at the pinned destination only to discover that it wasn’t the place I was looking for — or that there was nothing there at all. But other than those rare, maddening muck-ups, the nice GPS lady with the strictly business demeanor will reliably talk me through turn-by-turn directions to any place

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from Lazy Lake, Broward County, to Cold Bay, Alaska. She’ll even give me a choice of routes and track my forward progress on a screen. And if I miss a turn, before I even realize my error she’s already made the navigational corrections to get me back on course. And quite adamantly, at that. (All right already — I’m proceeding to the route! I’m proceeding to the route!) Among the constellation of over 2,000 communication satellites orbiting the Earth, the 24 GPS satellites are among those spaceage marvels that most directly impact our everyday lives. Because of this miraculous little feature in our smartphones and smart vehicles, we know to turn right in 700 feet because a satellite nearly 13,000 miles out in space is telling us to turn right in 700 feet — and doing so within a pinpoint accuracy

of less than one foot. What kind of 21st century voodoo is that?! And what convenience! I’m, um, experienced enough to remember the ritualistic hassles of having to ask for directions, scribble them down, invariably get them wrong (did he say “left then right” or “right then left”?), realize I’ve lost my way and end up pulling into a gas station to ask the attendant (a gas station attendant — as if!) how to find Peekaboo Lane. And even when Mapquest came along and computerized the process, I still had to try to follow my printed-out map and directions without taking my eyes off the road. But such collective memories are on the off-ramp to extinction. As with so many of today’s techno perks, young drivers have no reference for such clunky hindrances (what’s an atlas?) and probably no appreciation for the stress-free lives they’re living when it comes to things like finding their way to a party house they’ve never partied at before or finding their way back home glassy-eyed much later that night. Talk about your gamechangers! And we can kiss the old gender mythology goodbye, too. Making sure you got where you were headed used to be a man’s job. And for some, not asking for directions was a defiant right of manhood. Women, of course, were said to have a bad sense of direction and were content to leave the navigational duties to men — until, of course, they found themselves lost, at which time the air of contentment flew out the open window. Now everyone, male or female, can be Magellan. Almost as amazing than GPS itself is the fact that it doesn’t cost us anything to use it (unless you count our tax dollars). Launched by the Department of Defense in 1973, the service became available to civilians in the 1980s and is shared with us all free-of-charge by the U.S. government. So, next time you hear “Your destination is on the right,” maybe it wouldn’t be such a bad thing to have a kind thought for old Uncle Sam, and remember a time when getting there wasn’t always half the fun. After all, it won’t be too many years before the cars are driving us — and listening to that nice GPS lady will be about as passé as reading a map.

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

MarchEvents 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.

MUSEUMS & EXHIBITS Day Out With Thomas

SATURDAYS-SUNDAYS, MARCH 2-3 & 9-10

Take a ride on a full size Thomas the Tank Engine and meet Sir Topham Hatt in this train celebration that includes storytelling, entertainers, arts and crafts and more. Advance purchase is recommended. $16-$20. GOLD COAST RAILROAD MUSEUM, 12450 SW 152 St., Miami, 305-253-0063 www.gcrm.org

Free First Thursdays Starry Nights THURSDAY, MARCH 7

Families can enjoy free museum admission and exploration, hands-on art projects and more the first Thursday of every month at the art museum. 4-8pm, NSU ART MUSEUM FORT LAUDERDALE, One E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, 954-525-5500 www.nsuartmuseum.org

Artfull Saturday SATURDAY, MARCH 9

Disney on Ice

IT’S SHOWTIME! You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown

Madeline and the Bad Hat SUNDAY, MARCH 17

THROUGH MARCH 10

Have some fun with the whole Peanuts gang including beloved Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Schroeder, Sally and Linus. $50-$60. 7:30pm, BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale,

954-462-0222 www.browardcenter.org

Magic Show

SATURDAY, MARCH 2

Watch the magic happen before your eyes as magician Gary Midnight mystifies the audience. Free. 1:30 & 3pm, WESTON COMMUNITY CENTER, 20200 Saddle Club Rd., Weston, 954-389-4321 www.westonfl.org

The Magnificent Circus Mystery The audience must unravel clues and overcome obstacles to help create the story from beginning to end. $6. 10am, LAUDERHILL PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, 3800 NW 11 Place, Lauderhill, 954-777-2055 www.lpacfl.com

City Mouse and Country Mouse SUNDAY, MARCH 10

Performed by Atlantic Coast Theatre Company, Aesop’s fable comes to life with original songs, audience participation and lessons in diversity. 2pm, SUNRISE CIVIC CENTER THEATRE, 10610 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Sunrise, 954-747-4646 www.sunrisefl.gov

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The Great Space Caper TUESDAY, MARCH 19

Madcap Puppets presents an out-of-this-world show featuring space explorer Buzby and an alien named Galax. 11am & 2pm, WILLOW THEATRE AT SUGAR SAND PARK, 300 S. Military Trail, Boca Raton, 561-347-3948 www.willowtheatre.org

American Girl Live

TUESDAY, MARCH 5

Based on the beloved book series, this charming musical traces the adventures of a young Parisian girl who learns that first impressions aren’t everything. $14-$18. 11am & 1pm, BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-0222 www.browardcenter.org

FRIDAY-SATURDAY, MARCH 22-23

This new, original musical celebrates the power of girls and the strength of friendship as a group of spunky campers overcome fears and obstacles. $33.75-$73. Friday 7:30pm, Saturday 3pm & 7pm. PARKER PLAYHOUSE, 707 NE Eighth St., Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-0222 www.parkerplayhouse.com

Disney on Ice: Frozen

THURSDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 28-31

Join Ana, Elsa, Olaf and friends as they set the stage for a skating adventure. Tickets start at $18. BB&T CENTER, One Panther Parkway, Sunrise, www.thebbtcenter.com

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Make your own Irish potato print in this fun family workshop. Space limited; reservations suggested. $5/door, $4/advance. 3pm, CORAL SPRINGS MUSEUM OF ART, 2855 Coral Springs Dr., Coral Springs, 954-340-5000 www.coralspringsmuseum.org

YAA Festival of the Arts SATURDAY, MARCH 9

Visual and performing arts take center stage as children ages 5-18 create and sell artwork until 4pm. Special discounted Broward resident rate, $5. 10am-6pm, YOUNG AT ART MUSEUM, 751 SW 121 Ave., Davie, 954-424-0085 www.youngatartmuseum.org

Eco-Eggstravaganza WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27

Kids can learn about reusing, reducing and recycling while participating in spring activities including the annual Eggstravaganza Egg Drop contest in which kids use their creativity and ingenuity to create cradles or parachutes to protect their eggs as they are dropped nearly 50 feet from the top of a fire truck ladder. Egg drop at 2pm. 10am-5pm, YOUNG AT ART MUSEUM, 751 SW 121 Ave., Davie, www.youngatartmuseum.org

Night at the Museum FRIDAY, MARCH 29

Families can enjoy extended hours of museum exploration, shows, entertainment, exhibits and more, the last Friday of every month. This month’s theme: Maker Zone. $14.95/adult, $10.95/child. 6-9pm, SOUTH FLORIDA SCIENCE CENTER, 4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach, 561-832-1988 www.sfsciencecenter.org

Mad Hatter’s Tea Party SATURDAY, MARCH 30

Don’t be late for a very important date with Alice and her friends at a tea party featuring light snacks, tea and lots of fun. Reservations required. $25/adult, $15/child. 11am-12:30pm, HISTORIC STRANAHAN HOUSE MUSEUM, 335 SE Sixth Ave, Fort Lauderdale, 954-524-4736 www.stranahanhouse.org

FAIRS, FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS South Florida Scottish Festival & Highland Games SATURDAY, MARCH 2

Experience Celtic tradition with Scottish music, entertainment, food, beverages, dancing, pipe and drum competitions, children’s activities, athletic competitions and more. $20/adult, $3/child. 9am-6pm, PLANTATION HERITAGE PARK, 1100 S. Fig Tree Lane, Plantation, www.sassf.org

Sea Turtle Day Festival SATURDAY, MARCH 2

Celebrate all things sea turtle with a family day filled with animal presentations, aquarium feedings, children’s theater, guided nature tours, kids’ activities and more. 9am-4pm, GUMBO LIMBO NATURE CENTER, 1801 N. Ocean Blvd., Boca Raton, 561-544-8605 www.gumbolimbo.org

Weston World Fest SUNDAY, MARCH 3

Take a tour around the globe without leaving Weston at this cultural event featuring international foods, booths, kids activities and live performances. Free. Noon-4pm, WESTON REGIONAL PARK, 20200 Saddle Club Rd., Weston, www.westonfl.org

Our Town America

CENTER, 601 City Center Way, Pembroke Pines,

954-392-2122 www.ppines.com

FRIDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 8-10

Old-fashioned fun featuring live entertainment, games, crafts, a classic car show, an “Our Town’s Got Talent” show and more. CORAL SPRINGS SPORTSPLEX, 2575 Sportsplex Dr., Coral Springs, 954-752-0126 www.ourtownamerica.org

StoryFest

SUNDAY, MARCH 10

Celebrate the cultural diversity of the community with storytelling, music, and entertainment. This year’s theme is Island Tales. Free. 11am-4pm, NSU ALVIN SHERMAN LIBRARY, 3100 Ray Ferrero Jr., Blvd., Davie, 954-262-5477

Water Matters Day SATURDAY, MARCH 9

A fun-filled day about the need to conserve water for people, plants and animals. Packed with workshops, giveaways, children’s activities and entertainment. Free. 9am-3pm, TREE TOPS PARK, 3900 SW 100 Ave., Davie, www.broward.org

St. Patrick’s Parades and Festivals

SUNDAY & SATURDAY, MARCH 10 & 16

Celebrate all that’s Irish with parades and festivals featuring music, Irish food and family fun. March 10, noon-6pm, DOWNTOWN HOLLYWOOD, Hollywood Boulevard and Harrison Street, Hollywood, www.hollywoodfl.org; March 16, 11am-7pm, HUIZENGA PLAZA, Fort Lauderdale, 954-463-3372 www.stpatsftl.com

Duck Fest Derby SATURDAY, MARCH 9

Rubber duckies race down the New River as part of a fundraiser for Kids in Distress that includes a day of family activities, music, food and more. Noon-3pm, ESPLANADE PARK, 400 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale, www.duckfestderby.org

Coral Springs Festival of the Arts

ArtFest in the Pines

SATURDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 16-17

An outdoor celebration of the arts with performances, live music and more. Free. 10am-5pm, THE WALK, 2874 N. University Dr., Coral Springs, 561-746-6615 www.artfestival.com

SATURDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 9-10

A celebration of the arts with crafts, jewelry, sculpture, painting, children’s workshops, demonstrations and more. Free. 10am-5pm, PEMBROKE PINES CITY

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES Outdoor Movie FRIDAY, MARCH 1

Bring a blanket and lawn chair to see an outdoor screening of Ferdinand. Admission and popcorn are free. 7:30pm, PIPER FIELD, 8000 NW 44 St., Sunrise, 954-747-4600 www.sunrisefl.gov

Bike Rodeo

SATURDAY, MARCH 2

Learn helpful bike riding safety tips, get bicycle safety inspections, ride the obstacle course and enjoy giveaways. 10am-1pm, TAMARAC PARK, 7501 N. University Drive, Tamarac, 954-597-3620 www.tamarac.org

Pet Expo

SATURDAY, MARCH 2

A full day of pet-friendly fun featuring family activities, pet adoptions, relay games, and a pet costume contest. Noon-3pm, POMPANO CITI CENTRE, 1955 N. Federal Highway, Pompano Beach, 954-943-4683 www.pompanociticentre.com

The Princess & The Frog Movie Singalong SATURDAY, MARCH 2

Enjoy a fun-filled afternoon with singing, a movie and pre-show activities that include a meet and greet with Princess Tiana, art activities and face painting. $15. 2-3:40pm, MIRAMAR CULTURAL CENTER THEATER,

2400 Civic Center Place, Miramar, www.miramarculturalcenter.org

South Florida Kids Got Talent SATURDAY, MARCH 2

Fourteen talented youngsters show off their singing talent to compete for the top spot and prizes during this sing-off competition hosted by Tri-Rail. Free. 1pm, GALLERIA AT FORT LAUDERDALE,

2414 E. Sunrise Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, www.tri-rail.com

An Evening with the Stars FRIDAY, MARCH 8

Peer through the telescope and learn what to expect in the South Florida night sky in the upcoming quarter, along with basic telescope techniques and general astronomy information. All ages. Free. 7:30-9pm, FERN FOREST NATURE CENTER, 201 Lyons Rd. South, Coconut Creek, 954-357-5198

Founder’s Day at the Park

SATURDAY, MARCH 9

Celebrate Cooper City’s 60th anniversary with a parade, antique car show, performances, arts and crafts show, children’s activities, concert, fireworks and more. 7:30am-9:30pm. Morning events at COOPER CITY COMMUNITY CENTER, 9000 SW 50 Place; and afternoon events at BRIAN PICCOLO PARK, 9501 Sheridan St., Cooper City, 954-434-4300 www.coopercityfl.org

Music at Mickel

Dr. Seuss Craft

Bring lawn chairs or a blanket to kick back with an evening of live music under the stars. Free. 7:30pm, 2675 NW 7th Ave, Wilton Manors, www.wiltonmanors.com

Use your creativity while celebrating all things Seuss. Ages 3-11. Call to pre-register. 4pm, LAUDERHILL TOWNE CENTRE LIBRARY, 6399 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Lauderhill, 954-357-6406

Hope Floats

Kids Night Out

A free, family-friendly event, includes a bounce house, face painting, food trucks, live music, games and prizes, miniature horses and more. Event culminates with the launching of a paper boat parade at 4pm. Tomorrow’s Rainbow provides grieving children and families a safe environment for hope and healing. Free. 1-5pm, ESPLANADE PARK

Kick off the weekend with a magical wand decorating activity followed by a live magic show featuring the Amazing Mr. A. 6-9pm,

FRIDAY, MARCH 15

TUESDAY, MARCH 19

MICKEL PARK CONCERT PAVILION,

SATURDAY, MARCH 16

FRIDAY, MARCH 22

DOWNTOWN FORT LAUDERDALE,

400 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale, 954-978-2390 www.tomorrowsrainbow.org

Outdoor Concert in the Park

THE VILLAGE AT GULFSTREAM PARK,

601 Silks Run, Hallandale Beach, www.thevillageatgulfstreampark.com

Sunrise Bike Rodeo SATURDAY, MARCH 23

Children can participate in a Bikefest complete with an obstacle course, bicycle safety checks and helmet fitting. Free. 8:30-10am, SUNRISE ATHLETIC COMPLEX, 11501 NW 44 St., Sunrise, 954-747-4600 www.sunrisefl.gov

SATURDAY, MARCH 16

Sing along to the sounds of Jaded, an Aerosmith tribute band. Bring a blanket and lawn chair. Free. 7pm, WESTON REGIONAL PARK, 20200 Saddle Club Rd., Weston, 954-389-4321 www.westonfl.org

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? Check our extensive online calendar at www.browardfamilylife.com

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

WORDS of wisdom

Common Bonds HOW THE KINSHIP OF MOTHERHOOD REVEALS TRUE FRIENDS BY DOLORES SMYTH

hen I became a mom, the question of where I stood took center stage in my life. In those early months of motherhood, I struggled to find my footing as a new parent in a strikingly literal (and comical) sense. I discovered that changing my daughter’s diaper while in a sleep-deprived fog might cause me to drop said diaper and step full-bore onto its soiled side. Likewise, I discovered that walking around the house barefoot might end with me resting my full weight on a Lego. Once the new mom haze dissipated, I felt a new pull to assess my footing in a broader sense. I had always observed how esteemed (or not) I was in my relationships. Once I had children, I realized that everyone I let into my life influenced my mood and, consequently, the mood with which I parented. Given my high regard for my friends, I resisted the warning of a sage mom acquaintance that once I had children, I would feel a chill from some of my (single and childless) longtime friends. I did not believe that would occur, as I did not have friends who begrudged other people their life choices. Or so I thought. Soon after, one longtime non-mom friend floored me by announcing she couldn’t go out with me anymore because “a wing-woman can’t be someone’s mom.” Unaware that I’d even been someone’s wing-woman, I mourned the loss of that friendship with bewilderment and heartache. Still other friends spent hours seeking my opinion on every detail of their dating mishaps but could barely find time to ask about my day or ask to see my baby. Ever. This growing lopsidedness in my friendships gripped me with resentment, distracting me from my child. Eventually, this troubling chapter gave way to an empowering conclusion: I had control over whether I befriended supportive people — or unfriended self-serving ones. With that newfound clarity, I ended my one-sided friendships and joined several new mom groups in search of more reciprocal relationships in the hopes of connecting with women who were living the same kinds of struggles and victories I was experiencing. Finding my so-called Mom Crew didn’t happen overnight. I met my first mom friend at the park. She approached me,

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

| browardfamilylife.com

remarked that we had kids the same age and suggested a play-date. After that, outings became enjoyable for children and moms alike. I’d met someone whose embrace of motherhood’s complexities inspires me to this day. She and I have befriended other supportive moms. My Mom Crew and I have stood by each other in good times and bad. For example, when one of us was knocked down by heart-wrenching marital problems, the rest of us huddled around her. We bring our strengths to our group for our children’s sake, as well. Our most creative member plans outings that nourish their sense of wonder; and each of us cares for the other’s kids when one of us is sick or has to attend a meeting midday. I cherish my mom friends for helping me to maintain my sense of balance, which allows me to be at my most-present for my children, instead of wasting time mulling over the slights of lesser friendships. My kids, in turn, have benefited from this more-grounded version of Mommy in leaps and bounds. I have my Mom Crew to thank for that. Dolores Smyth is a freelance writer who writes about the joys and struggles of parenting. When she isn’t writing, you can find Dolores enjoying her husband, three young children and… well, you know who.