PB Parenting - January 2025

Page 1


Private School Spotlight

Tips to Thrive in 2025

Letter From The Publisher

2025 Greetings!

Happy New Year! The arrival of a new year always fills me with excitement and the promise of a fresh start. It’s the perfect time to reflect on our lives and ensure we’re prioritizing selfcare. As a busy mom, I’ve come to understand the importance of not pouring from an empty cup—avoiding burnout and stress is essential for my well-being and for my family. This year, I’m focused on thriving, not just surviving. Page 8 features health and wellness tips to help you and your family Thrive in 2025. From fitness inspiration to mindful living, these ideas will guide you toward a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.

Instead of making resolutions, I’m embracing the idea of simplifying. Professional Organizer Amy Bergman from Amyzing Spaces is kicking off the year with an exciting Decluttering Challenge to help us get organized and create calm, clutter-free spaces. Check it out page 24—it’s perfect for setting the tone for a productive and peaceful year.

As we head back to school after the winter break, it’s never too early to think about the next academic year. Many private schools are now enrolling for the 2025-2026 school year, and January is the perfect time to attend open houses and schedule tours. Explore our Private School Spotlight on page 16 for insights into private school options in Palm Beach County.

Here’s to a year filled with simplicity, wellness, and joyful parenting!

Happy Parenting!

Volume 14, Issue 1 | January 2025

PUBLISHER

Felonice Merriman

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Jennifer Preville

GRAPHIC DESIGN/PRODUCTION

Felonice Designs, LLC

Stephanie Davis

COVER PHOTO BY: Lynn of Lynn Studios www.lynnstudios1.com

WRITERS & CONTRIBUTORS

Amy Bergman

Felonice Merriman

Family Features CONTACT PB PARENTING BY MAIL11924 W. Forest Hill Blvd. Suite 10A-146 Wellington, FL 33414 To advertise: 561-223-9223

- info@pbparenting.com

We offer appointments with board-certified physicians, diagnostic and imaging services, rehabilitation and walk-in urgent care.

Locations in Boynton Beach , Palm Beach Gardens * , Palm City and Wellington

* Walk-in urgent care for minor injuries and illnesses is offered at this location.

Services vary by location. To learn more, please visit nicklauschildrens.org/PalmBeachCounty

The only children’s health system in South Florida.

PB Picks

COMING JANUARY 24, 2025 – Sean Kenney’s Nature POP! Made with LEGO® Bricks Sean Kenney’s Nature POP! Made with LEGO Bricks is set to make its world premiere at McKee Botanical Garden from January 24 to May 4, 2025. This new exhibition from acclaimed artist Sean Kenney features over 40 sculptures made from more than 800,000 LEGO pieces and explores the beauty of nature through highly stylized, colorful displays that stand in striking contrast with their surroundings.

Produced by Imagine Exhibitions, Nature POP! blends art, science, and innovation in the display of the artist’s newest, never-beforeseen sculptures. Known for his ability to make striking works of art using simple LEGO toys, Kenney pushes the boundaries of the medium in this new exhibition through his use of vibrant colors and a bold, graphical style. Inspired by the Pop art movement, Kenney’s work on Nature POP! plays on that movement’s principles by blurring the boundaries between austere and the everyday and draws from a belief that everything is interconnected.

Nature POP! invites guests to consider how just as LEGO bricks are interconnected, so is everything in nature. The intricate displays

explore the relationships that exist in nature, whether that be the delicate balance between predators and prey, the commonalities between species as they care for their youth, or the impact that humankind has on the natural world. Supporting content enhances the experience with scientific facts about the creatures presented in the displays.

Most importantly, the exhibition allows visitors to appreciate both nature and the sculptures as something beautiful, and to inspire them to go home and create something wonderful themselves. Presenting a playful spin on traditional sculptural art, Nature POP! is an accessible experience for all ages. Learn more at www.mckeegarden.org/class/nature-popcoming-in-2025/

Health and Wellness in 2025: Tips for Parents to Thrive

As parents, managing your own health and wellness can feel like a juggling act amid the demands of family life. With the new year underway, now is the perfect time to prioritize your well-being so you can be your best self— for you and your family. Here are five practical strategies to help parents thrive in 2025:

1. Embrace Mindful Parenting

Mindfulness continues to be a top trend in wellness. Practicing mindfulness can help you stay present, reduce stress, and build stronger connections with your children. Simple activities like family yoga, deep breathing exercises, or bedtime gratitude routines can create calm moments in your busy day. Quick Tip: Try apps like Calm or Headspace for guided meditations tailored for parents.

2. Prioritize Sleep for the Whole Family

Sleep is the foundation of health, yet parents often sacrifice their rest. Set a consistent bedtime routine for everyone in the household, and stick to it. Limiting screen time an hour before bed can improve sleep quality for kids and adults alike. Pro Tip: Invest in blue lightblocking glasses and blackout curtains to create a sleep-friendly environment.

3. Nourish with Nutrition

The rise of personalized nutrition plans makes it easier than ever to eat healthily. Start the year by planning meals that incorporate whole foods, lean proteins, and a variety of fruits and vegetables. Consider family meal prep days to involve kids and make healthy eating a family activity. Family Challenge: Try “Meatless Mondays” or a rainbow-eating week to explore new, colorful produce.

4. Get Moving Together

Exercise doesn’t have to be a solo activity! In 2025, more families are turning to activities like virtual fitness challenges, outdoor hikes, or dance parties in the living room to stay active. Regular physical activity benefits both physical and mental health. Idea: Sign up for a familyfriendly 5K or community fitness event to build motivation and camaraderie.

5. Focus on Mental Health

Prioritizing mental health is as crucial as physical health. Be open with your children about emotions and model healthy coping mechanisms. Parents should also carve out time for self-care, whether through therapy, hobbies, or connecting with friends. Resource Alert: Look into telehealth services, which now offer accessible therapy and counseling options for parents and children.

2025 Wellness Trends to Watch

• AI-Driven Health Insights: Wearables like smartwatches now provide more than step counts—they can monitor stress, sleep, and even hydration levels.

• Green Wellness: Families are incorporating eco-friendly practices, such as reducing single-use plastics and embracing sustainable fitness gear.

• Community Care: Building a “village” of support is making a comeback. Parents are joining local groups or virtual communities to share advice, encouragement, and resources.

Your health and wellness set the tone for your family. By making small, intentional changes, you can foster a happy, healthy home in 2025. Remember, self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. Here’s to a year of thriving, not just surviving!

Nurturing This Trait Could Bolster Kids’ Confidence

The unexpected benefits of creativity

(Family Features) Creative expression not only helps children convey their thoughts and feelings, but it also helps build the self-esteem and resilience needed to navigate life’s complexities. Creativity can even serve as a powerful catalyst for educational, emotional and cognitive growth.

These findings are part of a Crayola-commissioned study conducted by YouGov of 702 children (6to 12-year-olds) that explored the connection between creativity and the development of essential life skills. The study revealed that when faced with challenges, children most often rely on their own creative ideas rather than depending on others or giving up. This instinct to turn inward for solutions demonstrates a natural tendency toward creative problem-solving.

More specifically, the study found 92% of participants believe being creative boosts their

confidence, and 6 in 10 said participating in a creative activity gives them a sense of pride. What’s more, 65% of children shared that engaging in a creative activity makes them feel happy and excited to participate.

“Creative activities help children recognize their unique talents and develop a deeper belief in their abilities – giving children an incredible sense of joy and accomplishment,” said Cheri Sterman, senior director of education, Crayola. “By prioritizing creativity, we not only enhance children’s immediate happiness and sense of pride but also equip them with the confidence and skills they need for future challenges.”

The study supports the premise of Crayola’s Campaign for Creativity, an advocacy initiative championing the importance of childhood creativity as a critical life skill that empowers kids to

reach their full potential and encouraging adults to nurture that creativity.

Parents and caregivers play a critical role in incorporating creative moments into their child’s day, whether it’s in a traditional form of artwork or reflected in a wide range of other activities, including storytelling, drama, dance, music and even sports.

Notably, more than half of survey participants (53%) shared they wished they could spend more time expressing themselves creatively with a parent or caretaker.

“Engaging in creative activities together is a powerful way for parents and children to strengthen their bond while helping children grow into confident, capable individuals,” Sterman said.

As a parent, you can tap into programs such

FRIDAY, JANUARY 24–SUNDAY, MAY 4, 2025

as Crayola Creativity Week to gather ideas and inspiration for nurturing creativity that promotes development of essential life skills, including:

Self-Expression: Engaging in creative activities allows children to express their thoughts, feelings and identities. This expression helps them better understand themselves and fosters a sense

of ownership over their ideas and creations.

Confidence: Sparking creative moments with kids allows them to build their confidence through self-expression, idea exploration and problem solving. This, in turn, empowers them to tackle challenges, think independently and develop resilience.

Problem Solving: In the study, children reported often turning to their own creative ideas to face challenges. Fostering creative problem-solving empowers children to navigate obstacles independently.

Self-Esteem: When children feel free to create without fear of judgment, they develop a sense of accomplishment and pride in their work, which

can strengthen their self-esteem. Creative activities also help them recognize their unique talents and develop a deeper belief in their abilities.

Creative Capacity: The act of creating something can empower children. When they conceptualize and execute their ideas, they realize they have the skills to turn their thoughts into reality.

Resilience: The creative process involves experimentation and failure. Children learn that setbacks are part of learning, which enhances their resilience. This experience fosters a belief in their ability to bounce back and tackle future challenges independently.

You can discover inspiration for nurturing your children’s creativity, including free creativity resources at Crayola.com/ CreativeMoments.

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INVITES YOU TO THE...

Saturday, January 25, 2025 • 10AM-2PM Boynton Beach Amphitheatre in Centennial Park

Heroes Among Us: A

For more information about the Schoolhouse Children’s Museum. please visit

Photo © David Schrichte

8 Ways to Live Healthier in 2025

Take steps to limit risk for cardiovascular disease

(Family Features) The last decade has seen a surge in cardiovascular risk factors such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity, each of which raises the risks of developing heart disease and stroke. These trends are leading researchers to conclude that the prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) will continue to rise.

More than 60% of U.S. adults will have some type of CVD by 2050, according to forecasted projections from the American Heart Association, which is celebrating 100 years of lifesaving service as the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all. Additionally, total costs related to CVD are expected to nearly triple in that time to more than $1.8 trillion.

The increase will be driven by an older, more diverse population, but these risk factors are rising even among children and adults.

“We recognize the landscape of cardiovascular health will change over the next three decades

because of the coming tsunami of rising health care costs, an older population living longer and increasing numbers of people from underresourced populations,” said American Heart Association volunteer Karen E. Joynt Maddox, M.D., M.P.H., FAHA. “Yet these are still leading causes of death and disability in the U.S.”

While continued systematic changes are needed in science, policy and health care, the majority of CVD is preventable at an individual level. You can help turn the tide on the dire outlook of CVD while improving your own health by following and encouraging others to follow the American Heart Association’s “Life’s Essential 8.”

Eat better. Aim for an overall healthy eating pattern including whole foods, fruits and vegetables, lean protein, nuts, seeds and cooking with olive and canola oils.

Be active. Adults should get 2 1/2 hours of

moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity per week. Kids should have 60 minutes every day, including play and structured activities. Quit tobacco. Use of inhaled nicotine delivery products, which includes traditional cigarettes, electronic cigarettes and vaping, is the leading cause of preventable death in the U.S.

Get healthy sleep. Most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Children require 10-16 hours for ages 5 and younger, including naps; 9-12 hours for ages 6-12; and 8-10 hours for ages 13-18.

Manage weight. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight has many benefits. Body mass index is a useful gauge. Optimal BMI is less than 25, but less than 18.5 is considered underweight. You can calculate it online or consult a health care professional.

Control cholesterol. High levels of non-HDL, or “bad,” cholesterol can lead to heart disease. Your

health care professional can consider non-HDL cholesterol as the preferred number to monitor, rather than total cholesterol, because it can be measured without fasting beforehand and is reliably calculated among all people.

Manage blood sugar. Most of the food you eat is turned into glucose (or blood sugar) your body uses as energy. Over time, high levels of blood sugar can damage your heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves.

Manage blood pressure. Keeping your blood pressure within acceptable ranges can keep you healthier longer. Levels less than 120/80 mm Hg are optimal. High blood pressure is defined as 130-139 mm Hg systolic pressure (the top number in a reading) or 80-89 mm Hg diastolic pressure (bottom number).

Find more ways to manage your health in the new year and beyond at heart.org.

Tues - Fri: 12pm-4pm Sat: 10am-4pm Sun: 12pm-4pm

Chesterbrook Academy

Preschool has served the families of Palm Beach Gardens since 1997. Our purposeful program goes beyond academic preparation to help children develop essential social-emotional skills and positive classroom behaviors, such as following directions and interacting positively with teachers and peers. Designed by early childhood education experts, our curriculum helps nurture a child’s curiosity to help them become confident, independent learners, and build the foundation for academic success in kindergarten and beyond. 3932 RCA Blvd. Suite 3201, Palm Beach Gardens. For more information visit PalmBeach.ChesterbrookAcademy.com or call 877-959-3740.

Meyer Prep

As part of the Posnack School Network, Meyer Prep students learn on a world-class campus featuring three state-of-the-art Innovation Labs, International Baccalaureate Middle School, rigorous secular and Judaic curricula, and outstanding extracurricular programming. Meyer Prep is

excited to offer Junior Kindergarten to students who are 4 years old and are developmentally ready for a more advanced learning environment. Wherever Meyer graduates go, they are prepared with the critical thinking skills, Jewish values, and confidence to lead throughout life. 5225 Hood Rd., Palm Beach Gardens.  For more information visit  www.MeyerPrep.org or call 561-238-9008.

Open Minds Academy

Tutoring and Homeschool opportunities available!  Open Minds offers subject-based tutoring, remedial and accelerated individual based tutoring, as well as academic diagnostics and test prep.  Our tutors help students reinforce their knowledge on the subject matter they are learning in the classroom, creating a partnership with the students' teachers.  Not sure if the traditional school system is right for you?  Are you overwhelmed with schooling your own child?  Our in-person Homeschool Program is taught by certified teachers who follow a curriculum based on your child’s specific needs.  Special programs also offered for Equestrian families. Located in Wellington.  For more information call 561-9482040 or visit www.openmindsacademy.org.

School Spotlight

Pine Crest School

At Pine Crest, we believe in educating a generation of emotionally intelligent and intellectually inspired students who are prepared to change the world. Founded in 1934, the School remains dedicated to tradition while being inspired by innovation, the modernization of education, and the importance of 21st-century learning skills. Our Boca Raton campus serves students in grades pre-kindergarten through eight who then attend Upper School on our Fort Lauderdale

campus. For more information, visit  www.pinecrest.edu or call 954-492-4103.

Primrose School of Royal Palm Beach

Our school is more than a daycare. Through purposeful play and nurturing guidance, we help lay the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.

Right down the road from Calypso Bay Water Park and Commons Park, we are conveniently located on Royal Commerce Road. Come by and see Balanced Learning® in action.  Located in Royal Palm Beach.  For more information,

Scan below to learn more or schedule

please call (561) 486-1863 or visit https://www. primroseschools.com/schools/royal-palmbeach.

Surfside Academy provides a nurturing and stimulating environment where children aged from infant to pre-K can thrive. With two convenient locations in West Palm Beach and Palm Beach Gardens, Surfside offers a research-based curriculum that fosters creativity, exploration, and a love of learning. Their passionate educators guide children through engaging activities, promoting social, emotional, and intellectual growth. Discover the Surfside difference and give your child the foundation for a bright future! For more information visit www.surfsideacademy.net.

Turtle River Montessori

Turtle River Montessori provides an authentic Montessori education for children aged 18 months to 12 years. Our challenging curriculum, led by passionate and gifted teachers, makes us the school of choice for families in the Jupiter area. We embody the Montessori philosophy and focus on the unique cycles of learning and critical developmental stages of children. Our classrooms are equipped with custom-designed materials and accommodate three-year age spans: Primary (3-6 years), Elementary (6-9 years) and Upper Elementary (9-12 years). Our mission is to educate children holistically by addressing intellectual, social, spiritual, creative and physical needs. Visit www.turtlerivermontessori. com to learn more about our school and schedule a tour to see the campus!

A JRK- 8TH GRADE JEWISH DAY SCHOOL

Meyer Prep? Why Meyer Prep?

• Advanced Dual Curriculum, Individualized Learning, and Personal Growth

• 3 High-Tech Innovation Labs, where Students Learn Coding, Robotics, 3D Printing, Engineering and Design

• Outstanding Performing Arts and Athletics

• Large Spacious Campus

School Spotlight

Wellington Preschool & Preparatory School offers high-quality programs for children from infancy through 5th grade. We focus on nurturing each child's potential in a safe and welcoming environment. Our beautiful campus is designed to inspire learning, develop social skills and encourage active play and outdoor learning. Safety is our top priority, with a high-level security system and trained staff. Our accelerated

curriculum, taught by experienced educators, includes individualized education plans and small class sizes. We emphasize character development through our after-school clubs and co-curricular classes like art, Spanish, violin, physical education and karate. We invite you to visit wellingtonprep.org to meet our teachers and schedule a tour to see our campus!

Don’t forget to tell them you saw their listing in School Spotlight

Searching for a college-prep, flexible education for grades 6-12 in South Florida?

Discover personalized learning, teacher support, and customizable schedules at Xceed Preparatory Academy by downloading a Parent Info Packet at xceedprep.org.

PB Parenting

Schedule a private tour today!

Xceed Preparatory Academy is a Cognia accredited network of private schools serving grades 6-12. The Xceed model provides personalization, online curriculum, flexible schedules and attentive in-person academic staff preparing students for college and beyond. Each day is designed to meet the learning needs and interests of each student in a safe and supportive learning environment.

Located in downtown Palm Beach Gardens, this new campus offers easy access to I-95, US-1, and the Florida Turnpike.

Xceed Preparatory Academy

Nationally acclaimed by U.S. News & World Report and NBC News, Xceed Preparatory Academy is renowned for its innovative, individualized education model. Its flexible learning environment, with a strong emphasis on subject mastery over seat time, caters to students who thrive outside traditional schooling, athletes, and performers. This approach allows students to balance their studies with extracurricular activities, travel, and family time. Located in downtown Palm Beach Gardens, this new campus offers easy access to I-95, US-1, and the Florida Turnpike. Join us at Xceed, where we ensure students excel on their own schedules. Visit www.xceedprep.org or call 954-803-1230 to learn more.

Empowering Young Minds for Success

A private education experience where students succeed. Now enrolling for all age groups up to 5th grade.

Innovative curriculum that inspires students to think and create

Professional educators who are passionate about teaching

Inspiring campus and high-quality learning materials

Eclectic variety of extracurricular programs

Learn more about how your child can receive an education with impact at Wellington Preschool & Preparatory School.

Pediatric Dentistry

Specializing in Dentistry for Infants, Children, Adolescents and those with Special Health Care

Specializing in Dentistry for Infants, Children, Adolescents and those with Special Health Care needs

Michael J. Roseff, DMD, LLC

Michael J. Roseff, DMD, LLC

Canyon Town Center Boynton Beach, FL 33472 561-732-8333

Pediatric Dentist Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry 8784 Boynton Beach Blvd, #103, Boynton Beach, FL 33472 ph# 561-732-8333 fax# 561-732-8375 roseffpediatricdentistry@comcast.net

www.roseffpediatricdentistry.com

School Spotlight

Top Questions To Ask When Touring (Or Virtually Touring) A Perspective School

1. What is your average class size and teacher to student ratio?

2. What is your school’s philosophy and mission and how is that incorporated into the school day?

3. What is your homework policy?

4. What extracurricular activities does your school offer? Sports? Club? Community Service?

5. How is technology integrated into the classroom and curriculum?

6. What specialty classes do you offer?

7. What foreign languages do you offer?

8. Do you have a gifted program?

Engaging and Empowering

Montessori Education

We provide a holistic educational experience designed to help children flourish in every way. With our approach, your child will thrive.

Authentic Montessori curriculum for each age group

Professionally certified Montessori educators

Intentional learning environment

Beautiful campus designed to enhance learning

Favorable student-to-teacher ratio

“The children of today will make the discoveries of tomorrow.” -

Schedule your tour today!

9. How does your school differentiate learning?

10. What is your approach for dealing with behavioral issues?

11. What are your teachers’ qualifications and what professional development opportunities do you offer them?

12. What kind of students are you looking for?

13. How much is tuition? Is financial aid or scholarships offered?

14. Do you have before or aftercare?

15. What options are there for students to be transported to and from school?

16. How engaged are your parents?

17. What type of communications do you provide?

18. What are your safety and security measures?

19. What support services are available? Do you offer counseling, academic support, or special education services?

20. How do you handle student transitions, such as starting kindergarten, middle school, or high school?

21.How do you measure student success and progress?

22.What is the school’s policy on screen time?

We Help Children Develop a Love for Learning

At Surfside Academy, children are motivated to learn, grow and thrive.

Innovative and proven curriculum that combines STEM, arts, languages and social-emotional learning

Experienced educators who are passionate about teaching children

Beautiful campuses with inspiring classrooms

Small class sizes to ensure individualized attention

Safe outdoor areas for active play and learning activities

Schedule your tour today!

Organize & Thrive in 2025: Join My January Decluttering Challenge!

As we bid farewell to 2024 and welcome the fresh beginnings of the new year, it's the perfect time to set intentions and make positive changes in our lives. One of the most impactful ways to start January 2025 is by embarking on a decluttering challenge that transforms not only our homes but also our minds and spirits.

Decluttering isn’t just about making our spaces look clean; it’s about purging the items that no longer serve us and making room for what truly matters. Let’s face it—our homes often accumulate a lot of clutter, from unused gadgets to overflowing bookshelves. That's why we’re inviting you to join us in a daily decluttering challenge throughout January, where we tackle one item—yes, just one—each day. Together, we will declutter our homes, one

step at a time, creating an organized, peaceful space to thrive in 2025.

The Power of Accountability

Starting a decluttering journey can be overwhelming, especially when the amount of clutter feels insurmountable. However, when we work together towards a common goal, the process becomes lighter, more enjoyable, and significantly more effective. The power of accountability plays a crucial role in this endeavor. By participating in this challenge with others, even virtually, we can motivate and support one another, sharing both victories and challenges along the way.

Picture this: it's Day 7 of our challenge, and we’re all decluttering our books. You might have a collection of novels that you loved once but haven’t opened in years. By sharing your progress online, you’ll connect with

others doing the same, holding each other accountable to complete the task. Not only does this foster a sense of community, but it encourages you to let go of those burdensome items more easily, knowing you’re not alone.

Daily Tasks to Simplify Your Space

Here’s a glimpse of some of the daily challenges you can expect as we declutter together this January:

Day 18: Pet Supplies – Assess your pet’s toys, leashes, and other accessories. Are there neglected items that could find a better home or be donated?

Day 12: Kitchen Junk Drawer – Every kitchen has one! Tackle that cluttered drawer and

gather tools, wrappers, and miscellaneous items. Discard what’s broken or unused!

Day 20: Clothing – Explore your closet and pick out one (or two or three) item you haven’t worn in the last year. Donate it to make space for something you truly love.

By breaking the process down into small, manageable tasks, we can create momentum without feeling overwhelmed. Each day represents a new opportunity for growth and renewal in your space.

Working Together Virtually

In today’s digital age, connecting with others has never been easier. We’ll utilize social media

platforms and dedicated groups to share our progress, tips, and inspiration. Together, we’ll create a vibrant community where we can cheer each other on in our collective journey toward decluttering.

Remember, it’s not just about organizing our physical space; it's about cultivating a mindset that embraces simplicity, purpose, and clarity. Having the support of fellow “declutterers” can enhance this experience, making it more fulfilling and enjoyable.

The Benefits of Decluttering

The benefits of decluttering extend far beyond just a tidy home. Here are some compelling reasons to join us on this journey:

1. Reduced Stress: A cluttered space can lead to heightened feelings of anxiety. Creating an organized environment promotes peace and tranquility.

2. Increased Productivity: When your space is tidy, you’re more likely to focus, allowing for greater productivity in your daily tasks.

3. Enhanced Creativity: A clean space can inspire creativity, providing your mind with the freedom to think and create without distraction.

4. Improved Health: A decluttered home can reduce allergens, making your living environment healthier. Studies also show that there’s also a direct correlation to your mental health, “outer order leads to inner calm”.

Join Us!

Are you ready to step into 2025 with a fresh perspective and an organized home? We’re excited for you to join us on this decluttering challenge! Here is your FREE PDF version of the decluttering challenge and share your journey online with the

hashtag #OrganizeAndThrivein2025 and tag @amyzingspaces. Print out the Decluttering Challenge Calendar and put it on your refrigerator or pin it up in your home office. If any item on any day doesn’t pertain to you, feel free to take the day off or swap it out for anything else you need to declutter. Follow me on Instagram or Facebook to see daily posts with decluttering tips related to each day’s item and ideas on how to organize your home. Together, we can make meaningful strides in creating the home—and life—of our dreams. Let’s get started!

Xoxo, Amy

Amyzing Spaces provides professional organization for your home & office! Amy

Bergman is a professional organizer serving Palm Beach County who has always had a passion for organizing & simplifying things in life. She would love to help you make your space Amyzing!!! Check out her website at www.amyzingspaces. com, and you will see how she works with her clients to organize spaces in their homes & offices, creating systems that work for them so they can achieve more calm in their space and be even more productive & efficient with their time.

Quick Tips for Decluttering Success

If you’re ready to dive into the January Decluttering Challenge, here are some bonus tips to ensure you thrive throughout the month:

1. Set a Timer

Dedicate just 15-30 minutes a day to your decluttering task. This keeps the process manageable and prevents burnout.

2. Start Small, Dream Big

Begin with the easiest category or smallest space. Completing small wins builds momentum for larger projects.

3. Ask Yourself Key Questions

When deciding what to keep or let go of, ask:

• Do I use this regularly?

• Does it spark joy or serve a purpose?

• Would someone else benefit from this more?

4. Have Donation Bags Ready

Keep a box or bag handy for items to donate, recycle, or toss. Drop off donations weekly to maintain progress.

5. Celebrate Milestones

Treat yourself when you hit key goals, like finishing the kitchen or closet. Rewards can be as simple as a relaxing cup of tea or an inspiring podcast.

6. Share Your Journey

Post your progress on social media with #OrganizeAndThrivein2025. Seeing others’ successes can keep you motivated and engaged.

With these tips in mind, you’ll breeze through the challenge and set the tone for an organized, thriving 2025!

EVENTS & Things to Do

Sensory Saturdays: Special Exploration

Science Center and Aquarium on the first Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., offering a sensory-friendly experience for families affected by autism, sensory processing, cognitive challenges, or disabilities. Cost: Half off regular admission, purchased at the door. Learn more: https://www.coxsciencecenter.org/sensorysaturdays.

Get

ready to

ROAR

into history! Join the Cox

Science Center on January 10th at Screen on the Green on Clematis Street as we attempt a Guinness World Record for the most people dressed in dinosaur costumes! We need 300 dino enthusiasts of all ages to suit up and help us make this a legendary event. It’s a prehistoric party with music, movies, and fun for the whole family—plus your chance to be part of something unforgettable! Don’t miss this epic dino gathering! Event starts at 6:30 PM, with the record attempt at 7 PM. Learn more at https://www.coxsciencecenter.org/event/300dinos

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South Florida Strawberry Festival

When: January 17-19, 2025

Where: South County Regional Park, 12551 Glades Road, Boca Raton, FL

What: Enjoy three days of strawberry-themed fun featuring:

• Rides, slides, and inflatables

• Live music and delicious food

• Artisan shopping

• Cookie decorating, a petting zoo, and more!

Meet Silly Sammy the Strawberry and experience the America’s Got Talent Stunt Dog Show.

Tickets & Info: Visit www.SoFloStrawberryFestival.com

Follow @SoFloStrawberryFestival on Instagram & Facebook.

Come join us for a celebration of Arts & Culture featuring real heroes, superheroes, fairytale characters, and princesses. Bring your family and dress up while enjoying a fun day with bouncehouses, slide, facepainting, tea party, slime lab, K9 demonstrations, and more! There will be stage entertainment all day including a

The School District of Palm Beach County Job Fair -Fri.

Jan. 31 • 9 AM -12 PM

Transportation, Maintenance and Plant Operations, School Food Services, School Police and more will be hiring. The event will be at the Fulton-Holland Educational Services Center located at 3300 Forest Hill

January 24 to May 4, 2025 Sean Kenney’s Nature POP! Made with LEGO® Bricks at the McKee Botantical Gardens - Sean Kenney’s Nature POP! Made with LEGO Bricks is set to make its world premiere at McKee Botanical Garden from January 24 to May 4, 2025. This new exhibition from acclaimed artist Sean Kenney features over 40 sculptures made from more than 800,000 LEGO pieces and explores the beauty of nature through highly stylized, colorful displays that stand in striking contrast with their surroundings. Produced by Imagine Exhibitions, Nature POP! blends art, science, and innovation in the display of the artist’s newest, never-before-seen sculptures. Learn more at www.mckeegarden.org/

MANATEE LAGOON ManateeFest 2025 on Feb. 1, 2025 from 9am to 4pm is a joyous celebration marking Manatee Lagoon’s 9th anniversary! This FREE, family-friendly event offers a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of manatees, the Lake Worth Lagoon, and environmental conservation. Attendees can enjoy face painting, live music, photo opportunities with Mia the Manatee, and a KidsFunZone. With complimentary parking and shuttle services, ManateeFest promises a fun-filled and educational day for everyone. Discover the critical role Florida Power & Light Company plays in providing a refuge for manatees and join us for an unforgettable experience! Learn more here!

www.visitmanateelagoon.com/manateefest/

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