Conditions We Treat: •Autism •Aspergers •Down Syndrome •Cerebral Palsy
•ADD •ADHD •Developmental Delay •Muscular Dystrophy
•Spina Bifida •Torticollis/Plagiocephally •Club Foot •Many More
Call Us Today! 251.210.1632 8909 Rand Ave. Daphne AL 36526
251.210.1632
info@americanautismcenter.com
September2016 20
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Volume 1 Number 6
Columns 2
Mom of the Month 4
Living With Children John Rosemond
Parenting Special Needs Kids
Growing Up Online
Okay Pokeman GO families, here are common sense rules for augmented reality.
7 habits of highly effective parents of special needs children.
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Growing Up Online Carolyn Jabs
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Dave Says
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Dave Ramsey
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Family Time Mandy B. Fernandez
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Get This!
Gerry Paige Smith
2016 Special Needs Resource Guide
Local and national resources assist you in caring for your child.
Leaving Tweens Home Alone
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A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith
Find out if your tween is ready and how to best prepare him.
Departments On The Cover
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Grant Mead (age 5), son of
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Bits and Pieces
Ashley and Nick Mead and little
School Bits
brother to Mackenzie (age 6).
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Grant loves ice cream, airplanes,
Family Calendar
Toy Story, Ice Age, dancing,
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jumping on the trampoline and
Movie Reviews
swimming.
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MomOfTheMonth Grant was born a healthy, happy baby on August 5, 2010. His birth followed his sister’s 16 months prior. My husband and I felt so incredibly blessed to have our two perfect babies. Grant developed pretty typically in the beginning; he sat up at 6 months, crawled later that same month, and walked at 10 months. He was a pretty easy baby. At the time we didn’t notice the things he wasn’t doing such as waving, pointing, etc. At around 15 months we felt he should be saying more than just “dada” and at 18 months we began trying to get him evaluated for speech therapy. On July 1, 2013, we went to Early Steps to meet with a speech therapist, a developmental psychologist, and the Early Steps Coordinator. For five minutes they evaluated our sweet little curly headed boy. Their evaluation was that, “in our professional opinion you might want to take your son to a neurologist for an autism diagnosis.” My world went black! “Autism,” I thought. “You must be wrong.” I looked around the room, no one argued. Instead they gave us a list of therapists, classes, and programs. I was in shock! For the next six months autism consumed our lives. We tried the GFCF diet (which we dropped after two months). He had an MRI, EEG, and blood work. We read the books and took the classes. Grant soon started speech and occupational therapy at Pearl Nelson, as well as ABA at the Sacred Heart Autism Center. Those first six months I cried a lot at night. What did I do wrong? What did this mean for our son’s future? And would our lives ever be the same? Eventually, through the support of Grant’s wonderful team of therapists, our incredible family, and most importantly my amazing husband, I realized our dreams weren’t shattered like I originally thought. They just changed a little. I mean, he was still the same sweet little boy who loved to cuddle and laugh and has the sweetest smile. Here we are three years later and I could not be more proud of Grant. He has come so far and overcome so many obstacles. Grant attends the most wonderful preschool, Capstone Academy. He still receives outside speech therapy, occupational therapy, and ABA, which have all been instrumental in the amazing progress he has made. He is beginning to not only echo words, but he has begun to say words on his own and it could not be more exciting! If he cannot find his words, he points or leads us to what he needs. He now knows how to regulate and remove himself from a situation when things may become too overwhelming. He is becoming his own little person and he is happy. The part about our lives never being the same… well nothing truly changed. I mean, Grant’s “activities” are different therapies. But our family still does everything we imagined we would. We go on vacations (Disney World), have pillow fights, movie nights, take trips to the beach, and we recently took Grant to the movie theater for the first time. Grant also has a wonderful relationship with his big sister, Kenzie. They cuddle and laugh, and she is his voice when he needs her to be. When we entered the special needs community, I never knew what wonderful people we would encounter. From the amazing therapists (who have become more like family), to the wonderful teachers (who truly love my son and my son loves them), to our sweet babysitter, and even our patient hairdresser, the list goes on and on. We have also made some wonderful new friends who help us get through the challenging days. As a mom, when Grant was diagnosed with autism, to say I was worried was an understatement. To say I don’t worry now would be a lie. But I don’t worry all day, every day anymore. I love each day with Grant. He is such a blessing. He is the one who has taught me the most about life. Like to appreciate the little things, never give up, and how simple things can make you smile. Most importantly he has taught me that love needs no words. I know each day how much Grant loves me and he in turn knows how much he is loved! Thank you to all of you who have been a part of our journey and are a part of Grant’s village. We love you all and could not do it without you. To all of you entering or are already part of the special needs community, please refer to the Special Needs Resource Guide in this magazine for help and ideas!
Ashley Mead Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2016
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Greater Pensacola Greater Pensacola’s Foremost Parenting Source
Greater Pensacola Parents Magazine is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant role in our community. Greater Pensacola Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.
Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@greaterpensacolaparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson editor@greaterpensacolaparents.com Associate Editor Alison Rouse Contributing Writers Mandy B. Fernandez Carolyn Jabs Ashley Mead Judy M. Miller Dave Ramsey John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith Cover Photography Danielle Becker www.daniellebeckerphotography.com
President Jason Watson Advertising Sales Lynn Knighton Jason Watson ads@greaterpensacolaparents.com (850) 426-6222 Ad Design Tim Welch
Visit us at www.greaterpensacolaparents.com Greater Pensacola Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: PO Box 6241 Pensacola, FL 32503. The phone number for voice and fax is (850) 426-6222. Greater Pensacola Parents is copyrighted 2016 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Greater Pensacola Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.
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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond
Sleepovers Need Basic Parameters Q:
My husband and I have decided that we do not want our children to participate in sleep-overs. We recently moved to a new community and are just making new friends and meeting new families. All of these parents, it seems, love to do sleep-overs. We, however, are sticking by our guns. As a result, our kids are beginning to feel left out. What should I say to these other parents who think we’re crazy and their children who are making mine feel bad about it?
A: You never told me why you are so strongly opposed to sleep-overs. That suggests—but maybe I’m just playing psychologist here—that you think your objections are self-evident. If that’s the case, they are not self-evident to yours truly. I have heard of problematic situations that arose during sleep-overs, but I fail to see the basis for a sweeping indictment. In my (naïve?) estimation, the issue is not sleepovers per se; the issue is how well a given sleep-over is managed by the supervising parents. Before letting a child attend a sleepover, a finite set of “givens” should exist: First,
you are more than just slightly familiar with the host parents and know them to be conscientious, responsible people; second, that they know how to quickly get in touch with you should that become necessary; third, that the sleep-over will be attended by only one gender; fourth, that siblings, especially if they are older than the attendees, will be kept at a distance (ideally, farmed out for the evening). Your concern hints at a tendency to want to control everything that happens in your children’s lives. That’s called micromanagement and I would be remiss if I failed to point out that parental micromanagement always, without exception, creates huge problems of one sort or another in the long run. The problem is that micromanaging parents always, without exception, justify their anxietydriven over-control. They also tend to think apocalyptically, as in, “If I let my child attend a sleep-over, some other child who comes from a family that does not share our beliefs may permanently corrupt my child’s values.”
Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2016
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In short, the fears that lie behind micromanagement are rarely realistic. Plus, the parents in question fail to accept that they are not omnipotent, that try as hard as they might, they simply cannot control everything that happens in their kids’ lives. When my wife and I were in our active parenting years, we would purposefully allow our children to get themselves entangled in certain problematic situations that we could have prevented. In other words, we managed risk for the purpose of helping our children learn, by trial and error, how to keep themselves out of trouble. The result was win-win: the kids enjoyed a good amount of freedom and we enjoyed the peace of mind of knowing that they were steadily coming to grips with the relationship between freedom and responsibility. Some lessons cannot be “talked into” a person. Anyway, concerning this sleep-over issue, I’d take a deep breath and give it a go. Sounds like your kids need a break from your oversight. It also sounds like you and your husband could do with some parenting freedom as well. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.
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The Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival Celebrates Music Creators
September 29-October 2 Music education is an important part of our Festival. On Friday, September 30, we will host a children’s workshop at The Tree House Cinema in Gulf Breeze. This program will include middle school students from Santa Rosa County whose interest is in creative writing or music. Children will be encouraged to participate in the process of creating their own songs as well as taking the stage to perform their creations. This will give young students a chance to have a hands-on experience with a professional writer in the art of songwriting. Another goal we strive to achieve is to bring awareness to the general public. We appeal to all genres of music and endorse both professional and amateur songwriters. Over the weekend, various stages include Bamboo Willie’s, Casino Beach Bar & Grill, The Islander Bar and the Sandbar. For more info about artists, locations and schedule, visit www.pensacolabeachsongfest.com or call (850) 341-0889.
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Disney Live! Mickey And Minnie’s Doorway To Magic
Saturday, October 1 * Noon and 7 p.m. shows, Pensacola Bay Center. Join Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and the comical duo of Donald and Goofy as 25 of your favorite characters surprise and captivate at every turn of the knob! See the Fairy Godmother transform Cinderella’s rags into a beautiful ball gown in a split second; the Toy Story gang defy the dimensions of Andy’s toy box with the help of the green army men; and the spectacular stage debut of Rapunzel and Flynn Rider as they rise into the sky amidst the floating lanterns. With special appearances by Snow White, Tinker Bell and Aladdin’s Genie, you never know what to expect or who might join in the fun. For tickets, visit Pensacola Bay Center Box Office, Ticketmaster.com, or call (800) 745-3000. PARKING: $10 - Cash Only, Day of Show. For more info, visit www.pensacolabaycenter.com/.
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Blues Angel Music Blues on the Bay Concert Series
Captains for Kids Offers Special Needs Fun
Captains for Kids offers a free fun day on the water for kids with special needs and illnesses by providing: fishing charters, sailing excursions, parasailing rides, dolphin cruises and water banana rides. Most events have space for the parents and sometimes a sibling or two to tag along. All activities are free of charge. Captains for Kids offers these activities at many different beach locations and marinas in Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, Perdido Key, Pensacola Beach, Destin, Ft. Walton Beach and Key Largo, Florida. Each event has a maximum seating capacity so pre-registration is required for each person in order to give you a smooth experience and to provide a passenger manifest to the captain. We will be having this year’s event on Saturday, September 10th with a rain day on Sunday the 13th. For information, to register or to get involved call 850-438-5555, visit our website, www.captainsforkids.com or find us on Facebook!
Not Quite Fab (Beatles Tribute Band) will perform September 4 at 6 p.m. at The Community Maritime Park. Pack your coolers and bring your lawn chairs. Concessions will also be available. Please do not bring pets or glass containers into the park. Concerts are free and open to the public. Visit http://www.pensacolacommunitymaritimepark.com/ for more info.
Pensacola Dragon Boat Festival
Join us at scenic Bayview Park September 10 for this wildly entertaining event. Led by the rhythmic beat of a drum, teams of 20 synchronized paddlers, one drummer and one steersperson race 300 meters up the river in 40-foot canoes rigged with decorative Chinese dragon heads and tails. Each race will be about 12 minutes apart with a break for lunch. Call (850) 723-0800 or visit http:// pensacoladragonboatfestival.com/ for details.
Audition for Southeastern Teen Shakespeare Co.
Auditions for the 2016-17 Southeastern Teen Shakespeare Company season will be held September 6 and 7. Students ages 13-19 are eligible to audition. Company members meet once a month for a three-hour advanced technique workshop; they perform throughout the year at arts festivals and Renaissance fairs; they produce a full-length, classic play in the summer; and they play an instrumental role in running the Company as an arts business. However, there is also a “Short-Timer” option for those who wish to audition and commit to projects within a limited time frame. Auditions will be held in the Old Sacred Heart Hospital building, 1010 N. 12th Avenue, Suite 211. Visit http://setsco.org/index.html for details.
Subway Pensacola Cycling Classic Welcomes Southeast Cyclists
The 7th annual SUBWAY Pensacola Cycling Classic will welcome more than 300 cyclists to the Pensacola Bay Area the weekend of September 10-11. Regional pros, top amateur cyclists and hand-cyclists will race Saturday and Sunday in a three-stage event for more than $16,000 in prize money. Register for this event at www.usacycling.org. The three stages include a 3-mile Time Trial on Pensacola Beach on Saturday morning, followed by a Road Race in the Blackwater River State Forest north of Milton in the afternoon. On Sunday morning, the Criterium will take place in downtown Pensacola starting at 8 a.m. The Sunday Criterium includes multiple laps on a confined route in downtown Pensacola about one mile in length. Prize money is available for top finishers in each stage and the overall winners who have the fastest combined times. Hand-cyclists from around the world, including more than 40 members of the Paralyzed Veterans of America Racing Team, will also be competing. A free Kids Fun Race (10 and under) will take place at the Criterium Sunday morning in downtown Pensacola. Each child participating will receive a raffle ticket for the chance to win a new bike. Bike and helmet are required to participate. The distance will be one lap, or approximately .75-mile. Gold, Silver and Bronze medals will be awarded to the top three finishers. Admission for spectators is free. For more info, visit www.pensacolacyclingclassic.com or contact Tim Fox at (360) 921-7018. Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2016
Bands on the Beach Schedule
Join us every Tuesday from 7 to 9 p.m. at Gulfside Pavilion, 735 Pensacola Beach Blvd., Pensacola Beach. This FREE series runs through October 25. The event is open to the public and located at the Gulfside Pavilion on Casino Beach. Spectators are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and blankets; however pets and glass are prohibited. The September and October schedule follows: September 6: The Blenders; September 13: Mass Kunfuzion; September 20: Category 4; September 27: Ben Loftin Band; October 4: Dr. Breeze; October 11: Continuum; October 18: Holly Shelton Band; and October 25: The Groovinators. For more info, call (850) 932-2257, visit www.visitpensacolabeach.com or tune to Cat Country 98.7 for the latest updates. 6
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Sea No Limits Fishing Clinic
Half-Price Sundays Launch at Pensacola Children’s Museum
Saturday, October 8 * 8 a.m.-noon. Community Maritime Park. Free, but registration required. Fishing clinic for children and adults with physical or intellectual disabilities requiring supervised care. Strictly limited to the first 250 applicants (plus up to two additional family members/ guardians/caretakers). Pre-registration for the Fishing Clinic is required but not the optional child ID program. This FREE event includes: fishing rod & reel, grilled lunch w/ beverages, T-shirt, child ID program (optional), fish identification booklets, fishing instruction and bait. For more info, visit www.lodge347.net/.
The University of West Florida Historic Trust extends Half Price Sundays to its Pensacola Children’s Museum on Sunday, September 18, with an official Worldwide Day of Play event in partnership with Nickelodeon and Greater Pensacola Parents magazine from noon until 4 p.m. Worldwide Day of Play is a day each year during which Nickelodeon takes programming off the air and shuts down its website for three hours to encourage children to get up, get out and go play as well as supports community events that promote active play and healthy lifestyles. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the hands-on museum designed especially for children and participate in special activities including old-fashioned board games the entire family can play together. Whether it’s performing a delicate operation or trying to balance a bunch of pirate penguins on a rocky ship, these games will allow parents to relive childhood family nights with their own children. Guests will also have the chance to meet staff of the UWF Historic Trust and Greater Pensacola Parents magazine. Half-price Sundays began a year ago with the T. T. Wentworth, Jr. Museum. Now, families can explore both museums on Sunday afternoon family outings. Half-price Sunday tickets are valid for all Historic Pensacola properties and tours for seven days and can be purchased at either museum. Tickets purchased at the T. T. Wentworth, Jr. Museum Thursday-Saturday between 4 and 7 p.m. are also half price. The Pensacola Children’s Museum is located at 115 E. Zaragoza Street in downtown Historic Pensacola. For more info, visit www. historicpensacola.org or call (850) 595-5985 ext. 110 or jnall@uwf.edu.
Charlie Brown Christmas Auditions
Pensacola Little Theatre will hold auditions October 10 & 11 at 7 p.m. for A Charlie Brown Christmas, directed by Brandi Hicks Lane, with music direction by Tina Buran. There will be ten performances December 9-18 for for actors ages 11-15. No solo singing in the show, and limited dance. Auditions will consist of a cold read, plus dancing and singing. Script is available in the PLT Main Office for perusal. Characters include Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, Pig Pen, Frieda, Schroeder, Violet, Sally, Patty (Not Peppermint Patty) and Shermy. Visit www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/auditions for info.
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5210 Northwest Florida Day of Play
John Rosemond Gives Lecture, Teachers’ Workshop
September 17 * 10 a.m.-2 p.m. * Community Maritime Park A day to get up, get out and get active! Join us for a day of exciting activities, games, sports, contests and physical challenges for the whole family! This year the event will be held in conjunction with JAKES and Touch-A-Truck so plan to have fun for hours! The event is free and there will be food available for purchase. Call (850) 436-5670 or visit www.5210nwfl.com/. Short for “Juniors Acquiring Knowledge of Ethics and Sportsmanship,” the fun JAKES event educates youth in wildlife conservation and wise stewardship of natural resources with a chance to try archery, target shooting and fishing techniques. Children and youth will participate in age-appropriate activities such as archery, BB gun shooting, firearm safety, and taxidermy displays. At Touch-a-Truck, kids can get a chance to be “behind the wheel” and rub elbows with their hometown heroes. They can climb on and explore some of their favorite vehicles including fire engines, police cars, construction trucks and more. For more info, visit www.facebook.com/ events/167011593679281/.
Montessori School of Pensacola will host nationally syndicated author and parenting columnist John Rosemond for a public lecture Thursday, Sept. 8, at the Museum of Commerce in Downtown Pensacola at 7 p.m. Maria Mitkevicius, the head of school, said the lecture would be about discipline — a topic on which Rosemond is a recognized expert. Rosemond is a family psychologist and author of more than a dozen books on parenting. The event will begin with a reception from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., followed by the lecture at 7. Admission will be $20 at the door. Rosemond will conduct an educators’ workshop from 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. the following day, Sept. 9, at the Montessori School of Pensacola’s main campus, located at 4100 Montessori Dr. Cost for the workshop is $50. To RSVP for the lecture, visit http://bit.ly/2aTnT6G. To RSVP for the workshop, visit http://bit.ly/2bhqKaw.
Free Corvette Show at Pensacola Beach
Join Corvette lovers for a weekend of fun and sun at the Miracle Strip Corvette Club’s 14th annual “Vettes at the Beach” show Saturday, Sept. 10. A pre-registration and welcome dinner for out-of-town participants will be held Friday, Sept. 9, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Hemingway’s Bimini Bar on Pensacola Beach. Dinner will be included in the registration process. On Saturday, Sept. 10, registration will be available from 8 to 10 a.m. The free event draws hundreds of Corvette owners and enthusiasts from all over the country to the Casino Beach parking lot to check out more than 200 of Chevrolet’s famous sports cars, spanning seven generations from the early 1950s to today. Trophies will be awarded for best in show, sponsor’s choice, club participation, farthest distance driven and top 30 cars. The event will also feature trophies and door prizes. Registration is $45. For more info, visit www.miraclestripcorvette. com or contact Carol at carolsg257@bellsouth.net or (850) 375-6993.
STEM Saturday: Choppers, Harriers and Other VTOL Aircraft
Saturday, September 17 * 9 a.m.-1 p.m. National Flight Academy. K-6th grade students get to experience hands-on activities to learn about the physics and forces behind the VTOL aircraft (Vertical TakeOff and Landing)! Students will then apply the skills they have learned to fly VTOL drones and create their own paper helicopters. Additionally, students will fly the X-12B Triad in NFA’s simulators.Registration is $20 per child with lunch provided. Space is limited for each session, so visit www.nationalflightacademy.com or call (850) 458-7836.
Pensacola Gymnastics Classic
Hosted by Pensacola Gymnastics Training Center, this USAG-sanctioned meet will be held September 24-25 at Pensacola State College in the Lou Ross Center/ Bldg 3. The Girls’ Artistic Gymnastics Competition is open to the public. Admission is $10 for adults; $5 for children ages 4-15; and free for ages 3 and under. For more info, visit www.pensacolagymnastics. com or call (850) 484-1319. Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2016
University of West Florida Football Inaugural Home Game
Saturday, September 10 * 6 p.m. Blue Wahoos Stadium @Community Maritime Park. The UWF Argonuats versus Univ. of Missouri S&T Miners. Visit www.goargos. com for ticket and game info. 8
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Mark Your Calendar for Taste of the Beach!
* September 23-24 * Gulfside Pavilion On Friday night, enjoy a VIP five-course “Chef Celebration” meal prepared by four of Pensacola Beach’s finest chefs. Saturday’s festival, 11 a.m.9 p.m., is fun for the whole family with cooking demonstrations and chef competitions, live entertainment and fun for kids. Taste of the Beach was recently named one of the Top 20 Events in the Southeast for September by the Southeast Tourism Society. Visit TasteofPensacolaBeach.com or call (850) 932-1500 for details.
Pensacola Seafood Festival
The Pensacola Seafood Festival Don McCloskey 5K Run/Walk, held September 24 (one weekend prior to the actual festival), is a favorite of local runners. It is a flat, fast 5K through Historic Downtown Pensacola and is sponsored by the Pensacola Runners Association and Fiesta of Five Flags. The following weekend, the Pensacola Seafood Festival will be held September 30-October 2 in Seville Square. Hours are 11 a.m.11 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Sample a variety of seafood dishes and enjoy continuous entertainment in Fountain Park. Arts and crafts vendors will display their wares, and a children’s area is filled with activities for all ages. Located in Bartram Park, the children’s area will be open Saturday, October 1, from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday, October 2, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. It will feature inflatables, face painting and a marine life educational program. With the help of local educators and Gulf Specimen Marine Laboratory, we will be able to offer a variety of FREE touch pools for children and families to experience live sea creatures. It will be the ultimate hands-on experience! In addition, the Fiesta Seafood Grille offers cooking demonstrations where you can watch area chefs prepare regional delicacies. Visit www.fiestaoffiveflags.org or call (850) 433-6512 for details.
Autism Pensacola Holds Fifth Steps for Autism Walk
September 24 * 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Blue Wahoos Stadium. Funds raised by this event will support the mission and programs of Autism Pensacola, including safety, quality of life, and awareness initiatives in both Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. For more info or to participate in the walk, call (850) 434-7171, e-mail walk@autismpensacola.org or visit www.firstgiving.com/17253/steps-for-autism-2016.
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KidsHealthWatch
Sponsored by Pensacola Pediatrics
Bullying Has your child ever been the victim of bullying? Has your child ever witnessed bullying? Has your child ever BEEN the bully? Are you sure? Each August our children return to school. It is a time for the anticipation of reuniting with old classmates and meeting new friends, anxiousness about new teachers and homework, and excitement for all the new experiences to come. Unfortunately the specter of bullying also returns to haunt the hallways, classroooms and playgrounds of schools everywhere. According to research, more than 20% of children aged 12-18 are the victims of bullying. Every day over 160,000 children avoid school out of fear of being bullied. Bullying occurs in many forms and with today’s technologies can happen anywhere at any time. Some bullies employ physical or verbal attacks while others may make threats, spread rumors, or otherwise undermine their victim’s reputation and social standing. Bullies tend to prey on boys who are smaller and weaker or girls who are
more socially isolated. Bullying usually occurs in front of other children and when adults are not watching. Bullying can cause long term social and psychological problems for both the victims as well as the bullies themselves. Victims may have academic difficulties and decreased self-confidence, selfesteem, and self-worth. They have more general health complaints and may even develop anxiety or depression. Bullies are more likely to drop out of school. As adults they tend to be less successful in their work and family lives than their peers. They are more likely to be abusive to their spouses, abuse drugs and alcohol, and have criminal records. These facts certainly are concerning, but there are things that we as adults and parents can do to help protect our children. We must be aware of signs which may indicate a child is being bullied. New avoidance or fear of school, new signs of anxiety or depression, or a drop in grades could each be a sign of bullying. Keep open lines of communication with our children. Even if you haven’t seen signs of bullying, talk with your child about it. Ask them open questions about how they
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are doing in school and how they feel about the other children. Ask them if they have ever seen another child being bullied. If you learn that your child is being bullied, teach him or her how to react if the situation occurs again. Stand and calmly look the bully in the eye, firmly state to stop it, or simply walk away. Practice these with your child to help them feel confident when the real situation arises. Your child should then tell an adult as soon as possible after the incident. A parent should speak with school officials if the bullying does not stop. Encourage your child to participate in group activities such as team sports, band, boy or girl scouts, or other similar clubs. These will help your child develop good social skills. Encourage him or her to develop strong friendships. Having friends and good social skills will make your child less likely to be picked on. If you discover that your child is bullying others you should take action right away. Help your child to understand that bullying is never acceptable. Use only nonphysical discipline such as restrictions when necessary. Get involved with the teachers, counselors and principal to find creative and positive ways to stop the bullying. Bullying occurs in almost every school. With greater awareness and with an everpresent commitment to addressing it seriously we can hope to decrease the incidence and impact of bullying in our schools. Best wishes for good health and a safe and wonderful school year to all of your children! Jason F. Straub, M.D. is a board certified pediatrician with Pensacola Pediatrics. He attended medical school at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) and completed his pediatric residency at Sacred Heart Hospital through Florida State University (FSU). He has a wife, Suzanne, son Alexander, and three stepchildren, Drake, Bailey, and Carlyn. They share their home with four dogs and one cat.
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Autauga County Schools GBMS Completes Cafeteria Renovation
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Gulf Breeze Middle School’s year-long cafeteria and kitchen renovation was completed just in time for the start of the new school year. The new cafeteria design lets in additional light and is more spacious than it was previously, and the state-of-the art kitchen includes a nonskid
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Great Beginnings at Spencer Bibbs
New teachers met at Spencer Bibbs at the end of the summer to start their new adventure as teachers. They also met their START Program CTs - Consulting Teachers. More then mentors, CTs are there to help, coach, encourage, model for, visit often, guide, advise and evaluate how well these new teachers learn their new profession. Welcome to Escambia District and to the profession, newbies!
CA Weis Ready for School
C.A. Weis Elementary students took a recent opportunity for back to school shots, teeth cleanings, supplies, books and more! (Facepainting was clearly a nice perk.)
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Autauga County Schools
Former Sesame Street Cast Member Presents Lecture
Gulf Breeze Middle Hires New Teachers
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The WSRE Public Square Speakers Series will present a lecture Tuesday, September 13, at 7 p.m. at Pensacola State College featuring Sonia Manzano. The former Sesame Street cast member has affected millions of parents and children since 1971, spending 44 years as Maria and affording her a unique look at how children’s television has evolved. The event is free and open to the public. Tickets are not required, but reservations are encouraged. To make reservations, visit wsre. org/speakers. For more information, call (850) 484-1200.
Gulf Breeze Middle School welcomed five new full-time teachers this school year. From left are Tara Turk, Amy McCain, Laura Titus and McKenna Wyrosdick. Jessica Smith is not pictured.
Kindergartners Getting Into the Routine at GBES
Kindergarten students walking to their classroom from the cafeteria. They are easily earning routines.
Summer Camp Fun at Montessori
Montessori School of Pensacola camps were full of fun this summer. Campers performed plays, studied cultures from around the world, conducted science experiments, made music, and more. One camp had elementary campers exploring the world of Harry Potter, including making their own papier mache’ hats. Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2016
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High Schoolers Construct Kid Bot Labs at OJ Semmes
What do you get when you ask ten high school kids who are interested in engineering and robotics and who have the support of the staff at the Institute for Human & Machine Cognition to come up with ideas for an elementary school’s innovation center? You get Kid Bot Labs at OJ Semmes Elementary School and a binder full of lesson plans and teacher’s guides for lessons that introduce kids to coding and robots. As a bonus, you also get some amazing new decorations designed to catch kids’ attention and make them want to explore a Bot Lab on their own. The high school students learned - in a real world way - how to divide and conquer a challenge, how to plan, how to share responsibilities, how to collaborate and how to be creative while helping younger students.
Safety Patrol Students at Gulf Breeze Elementary
Fourth grade safety patrol students help with morning arrival. Left to right: Addy, Kaitlyn, Lauren, Kyleigh
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TSA Students from Workman Middle Honored During Board Meeting
Workman Middle School’s TSA Club has been around for only two years and has made it to State and Nationals! Club members made the top ten in two categories and took first place in another. Thank you to Katrice Nolan from CW55 for coming out to tell their story.
2016 ECSD Summer High School Graduation
District leaders, families and friends gathered in the Pensacola High School auditorium July 21 to cheer for 39 new graduates in the 2016 Class. Students were from Pine Forest, Escambia, Pensacola High, BTW and Tate. Congratulations!
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College Applications: Not Just for High School Students by Kiersten A. Jarvis
As parents, it’s easy to see how quickly time passes as you watch your child grow. From preschool to high school, training wheels to ten-speeds, we each mark this passage of time with our own special memories. Despite this recognition, many families make the mistake of thinking that college preparation is a challenge reserved for high school upperclassmen. Surely planning for college in elementary and middle school is much too early! However, as a firm believer of proper prior planning, putting a little forethought and early preparation into this seemingly daunting process can save families a lot of headaches down the road. One recommendation I have for families is to start exploring extracurricular activities that your child enjoys early on during the school years. While grades in school are always an important factor in the college admission process, extracurricular activities also play an important role in the
Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2016
application package. Therefore, it is important that your child engages in meaningful activities that he or she enjoys. However, many families will often go the scattershot route and involve their child in so many activities that they are driving from place to place every night, ending up exhausted with an exhausted child. Thankfully, college admission officers are no longer focused on looking at an everlengthening resume of cursory memberships to clubs and organizations; instead, they are hoping to find that child who has a true passion for an activity, skill, or cause. Is your child an award-winning fencer? Does your child love juggling and volunteer at the local children’s hospital? Does your child love animals so much that he or she organizes an animal shelter supply drive? Showing leadership, focus
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and passion are just what colleges are looking for to build their student body. This school year, help your child discover his passions and interests. Expose him to a wide variety of environments and activities, but pay attention to the ones that really make your child’s heart soar. When your child discovers an interest that makes him light up, this is where you want to help encourage his passion and spirit, and in turn, you are helping him find his path to the ever-sought-after college dream. Kiersten Jarvis loves being a mother to her wonderful son, Parker, and is the CEO of Beacon College Consulting, LLC, where she provides college admissions consultation services to children and their families. Learn more at www.beaconcollegeconsulting.com.
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Escambia County Teachers Attend NMSI Training
During the summer, about 120 middle and high school teachers from Escambia County School District participated in a four-day workshop hosted by the National Math & Science Initiative (NMSI) at West Florida High School of Advanced Technology. As stated on the NMSI web site, “NMSI was formed to address one of this nation’s greatest economic and intellectual threats – the declining number of students who are prepared to take rigorous college courses in math and science and are equipped for careers in those fields. This crucial project was initiated as a public-private partnership, led by private donors such as Exxon Mobile Corporation, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and the Michael and Susan Dell Foundation. Overall, NMSI’s programs encourage more children to develop an interest in math and science, and help schools reach new levels of academic excellence-building a much needed college-ready culture in America’s schools.”
Montessori School Holds Woodworking Camp
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Montessori School of Pensacola hosted a week of woodworking camp this summer. Campers learned about measurements and tool safety, using math skills and hands-on activities. They worked on a variety of projects including their own sets of stilts and wooden robot creatures. Montessori education takes a very hands-on approach and project-based, practical life projects.
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Autauga County Schools Parenting a Special Needs Child
Parenting is never easy, but parenting a child with challenging behavior, developmental delays or a child with medically complex health issues can be so stressful that experts say it is comparable to a veteran in combat. Parents of children with special needs tend to be on a heightened state of alert in an effort to meet and make sure their children’s needs are addressed appropriately. But this comes at a high cost to their personal well-being. Parents should be careful to be aware of their own stress levels and take the time to fight that stress, by making time to nourish themselves, and by staying connected with other parents for support. Thanks to the internet, it is relatively easy to connect with other parents who have similar challenges. Facebook plays host to many local online groups, and there are also many blogs and publications like this one that are dedicated to various special needs. Last but certainly not least, community support groups have in-person meetings and events to connect parents. Because of this outreach from so many forms of media to the public, there have been great strides in educating about early detection of special needs. More children are being identified, and it is leading to early intervention. Early intervention can consist of something as simple as a child obtaining speech therapy once per week, or as complex as a child who needs specialized care from the bed of his hospital room. The important thing to remember is that every child’s needs should be addressed on a case by case basis after careful consideration of his individual abilities. The Americans with Disabilities Act mandates that all children have the right to free and equal education in spite of a disability, which means any school or childcare that receives state and federal funds is required to provide reasonable accommodations to children with special needs. But beyond that, there is also a mutually beneficial enrichment to all of the children involved. Not only do children with special needs learn from their typically developing peers, but typically developing children also learn that there are more similarities than differences with their special needs friends. They can also learn to be advocates for and compassionate to children with special challenges. If a child’s parents or caregivers have questions about their development or health concerns, the state of Florida has established a “Warm Line” that they can call for questions. It is designed to provide assistance to those who are seeking help in identifying children with special needs or are struggling with the inclusion of special needs children within child care programs. This resource can provide technical assistance with adaptations within the classroom for children with special needs, assist with challenging behaviors, and help identify developmental concerns. The Warm Line also provides assistance with curriculum and health care needs within child care settings. For more information, contact the Escambia County Early Learning Coalition Warm Line at (850) 607-8214. Contributed by Kelly Duhon, Inclusion & Behavior Specialist, Early Learning Coalition Escambia. Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2016
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Visiting Professor Speaks At Annual Conference Francis Marion University Professor of Education Dr. Tammy Pawlowski presented “Poverty Matters - Teachers Matter” at this year’s administrators’ conference at Booker T. Washington High School. Her research has led her to explain that “poverty” is defined NOT by how much money a family has -- but by what resources parents can or cannot access for their children. Thanks go to WEAR TV News for sending out two different crews to cover different aspects of the conference, as well as to the Pensacola News Journal.
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GBES Teachers Welcome Students
From left, teacher Vanessa Moore and Guidance Counselor Tiffany McClure can be seen in the school lobby welcoming students to Gulf Breeze Elementary during the first week.
MSP Tennis Fundraiser Success for Humane Society
Montessori School of Pensacola hosted McClelland Tennis Academy for a special charitable tennis event and more than 25 players of varying levels took part. The event took place July 29 at the MSP tennis courts at the MSP West Campus. More than $200 was raised, along with many donated items for the animals at the society. Animals from the Humane Society were also there for adoption, and specially designed shirts were made for the event. As MSP Tennis Coordinator Tricia Kruse said, “It was a dog-gone great event!”
6+ Live Animals / 45+ min Show Starting at $200 / We Come To You!
2016 -2017 School Assembly & After School Program
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1-800-589-5408 ext. 2 info@animaledzoocation.com 17
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Autauga County Schools
Escambia County School Board Awards Employees
At its August meeting, Escambia County School Board honored the school resource officers (top unit in the state and the #1 SRO in the state), proclaimed September to be PTA Membership Month, named secretary Teresa Pace from Ferry Pass Middle School the Stellar Employee of the Month, named Pensacola High School Principal David Williams as Principal of the Year, and Hellen Caro Assistant Principal Catrena Fieg as Assistant Principal of the Year. Shown are from left are Principal of the Year David Williams, Assistant Principal of the Year Catrena Fieg, and Stellar Employee for the Month of August, Teresa Pace.
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Gulf Breeze Middle Erects New Sign
The cafeteria wasn’t the only item at Gulf Breeze Middle School that received a summer face-lift. A new sign on Highway 98 gives the school a crisp new look!
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YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD WALK-IN CLINIC
Can’t get in to see your doctor? WE TAKE WALK-INS!
Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2016
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Escambia County Teachers Participate in Cybersecurity Training
Cybersecurity training for Escambia County School District teachers was held at University of West Florida during the summer. Partnerships have developed in just a few years between ECSD, Workforce Education, the Cybersecurity Academy at Pine Forest High School and many IT and cyber businesses and experts
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in our community. They have worked together to hold camps for kids, Cyberthon, and now workshops for teachers.
Montessori Sponsors Local Athletes
Montessori School of Pensacola helped sponsor runners participating in a local track and field program called Golden Elite/Wings. Eighteen out of the 27 athletes qualified for the Junior Olympics in Humble, Texas, including students from MSP. The event started July 29 and students worked hard in the summer heat.
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Gulf Breeze Elementary First Week of School
Students heading to the buses after a successful first week of school.
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Common Sense Rules for Augmented Reality Pokemon GO may be the first breakthrough game to use augmented reality (AR), but it certainly won’t be the last. The boundaries between virtual and tangible worlds have been blurring for a long time, and new games fuse the two into one irresistible package. As everyone knows by now, Pokemon GO makes tiny monsters appear everywhere from museums and malls to backyards and kitchens. Entire families have cheerfully headed out into their neighborhoods and beyond to collect as many monsters as they can. So far so good. But augmented reality also creates risks. Thinking through the pros and cons of Pokemon GO gives parents a good platform for making common sense rules about the many AR games that are likely to follow. As you develop family guidelines, keep these 5 P’s in mind. Permissions. Children under 13 can’t sign up for games unless they have permission from parents. That’s a reminder that younger children need augmented supervision in augmented reality. Play together if you can. Or ask your child to walk you (literally!) through the game so you can see and comment on what’s fun and what’s risky. AR apps also ask for permissions when they are installed, and parents should get in the habit of reviewing every request. Obviously, smart phones hold lots of information— who a child knows, where she hangs out, what photos he’s taken, what social media she uses. This information may seem trivial, but it’s catnip to marketers. Even if the company that makes the app promises to use the information responsibly, tech companies often change hands. The best policy is to give each app as little permission as possible. Pokemon Go, for example, needs access to the phone’s
camera but not contact information. To revise your choices after installation, find the Settings icon on the phone. Look for the Apps folder. Find the relevant app and uncheck as many boxes as possible. Place. AR games encourage children to explore the world. That’s terrific! But kids still need boundaries. For kids mature enough to play without direct supervision, be very clear about where they are allowed to go. In the case of Pokemon GO, monsters may very well show up outside the approved play zone. Talk in advance about how you want your child to handle this situation. (To confirm that the rules are being followed, click the Pokeball button at the bottom of the screen. You’ll see a list of captured Pokemon and details about where they were caught.) Before turning a child loose with AR, remind them about tangible concerns. Exercise special caution near water and never cross safety barricades. Don’t trespass on private property and don’t play the game in inappropriate places like cemeteries and churches. Use sunscreen and stay hydrated. Traffic is another obvious risk. People staring at phones have bumped into things and stepped in front of cars. Some parents insist that kids set the phone to vibrate when a Pokemon is nearby so they can walk without distraction. To its credit, Pokemon GO reminds players to turn the game off while driving. The same rule should apply to other forms of transportation—bikes, scooters, skateboards. People. The best games are often social, and AR is no exception. Chatting with others who are playing in the same vicinity seems natural, and some objectives require teamwork. Most of the people your child encounters will be fellow enthusiasts. But the Pokemon GO game includes devices that
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draw Pokemon—and their hunters—to specific locations, and that creates opportunities for predators. Remind your child that all the usual rules about talking to or going anywhere with strangers apply. Encourage kids to play with friends and reiterate the fact that, even with friends, they shouldn’t go into isolated places like dark alleys or abandoned buildings. As an extra layer of protection, consider keeping track of your child’s phone with a service like Find my Friends (Apple) or Google+ (Android). Price. Apps are seductive because they seem to be free. Still, the people who develop these things need to be paid, so something is always for sale. In the case of Pokemon GO, players can purchase Pokeballs, Pokecoins and lures that will make it easier to catch rare specimens. For parents, this is a teachable moment. Consider giving your child an in-game allowance or encouraging her to earn money for game items by doing chores. Make it crystal clear that your child needs to get approval before spending real money on virtual goods. AR games are also likely to have other costs. Because Pokemon GO depends on GPS tracking, it consumes lots of data. Show older kids how to monitor usage so they don’t incur extra charges by exceeding the family limit. Privilege. Playing any game is a privilege that can be revoked if kids don’t follow household rules. In the case of a craze like Pokemon GO, you may want to be flexible at first to see how the game fits into family life. When is it OK to play? When do you expect phones to be powered down? Are there things your child can do to earn extra time? What behaviors will result in suspending privileges? The answers to these questions won’t be the same for every family, and they may need to be hammered out in family meetings. Still, it’s always up to parents to be sure that the allure of AR is tempered with real world common sense. Carolyn Jabs, M.A., has been writing the Growing Up Online column for ten year. She is also the author of Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart. Available at Amazon and Cooperative Wisdom.org. @ Copyright, 2016, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved
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Q. Our daughter is a special needs child, who doctors say will live about half as long as the average adult. There’s also a good chance she will be under our care her entire life. We just finished Baby Step 3 of your plan, so we have all of our debt paid off except for the house, and we have an emergency fund of three to six months of expenses saved. We have health insurance, too. However, we were wondering how the situation with our little girl affects retirement planning and college funding? A. I know this may sound strange, but the situation with your daughter really doesn’t affect things all that much. The only real difference is that it sounds like you’ll be responsible for your sweet daughter for the foreseeable future — not just until she’s 18 or 21. If you don’t already have it, you and your wife should both buy 10 to 12 times
your annual incomes in term life insurance. Make sure the money from the policies is set up to go into a special needs trust that would be managed for her care. That way, your baby will be taken care of in the event something unexpected happens to you. Otherwise, just keep following my plan. Baby Step 4 means you start putting 15 percent of your income into pre-tax retirement plans, like Roth IRAs and mutual funds. Baby Step 5 is college funding, if that’s a consideration for her, followed by paying off your home early. Then, of course, the last Baby Step is building wealth and giving. Financially speaking, you’re looking at filling a need in the event of your deaths. This should be covered by life insurance or investments. If you reach a point where your investments are substantial, and money from those things can adequately cover her needs and the needs of your family, then you can always drop the insurance policies.
Q. My husband has his own one-man painting business, and I help him with the books. We were wondering how you know when it’s time to implement a price increase. Also, what should the increase be? A. I grew up in the real estate business, so I’ll use the apartment-complex model as my example. If your building is completely full, it’s time to raise prices a little until you have a vacancy. In this type of scenario, you want a healthy level of vacancy, meaning you’re always going to be losing some customers as you go up in prices. In your husband’s case, if he’s booked through the end of the month, he’s way underpriced. Just keep on turning in your bids, and don’t make a big deal about things. It isn’t like a tenant, in your case, where you’re going back time and time again except in rare cases. You might start with a 10 percent increase, and see what happens for a while. If that goes well, wait a bit and raise them another 10 percent. There are only so many hours in a day he can work, so the only other option is to take on staff. But before I start staffing, I’m going to raise prices and cut the number of customers that way. In most cases, if you show up when you say you will, complete the job when you say you will, and you do high quality work, there’s almost no ceiling on what you can make!
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Many parents of special needs children appear to parent with grace, balance, and energy. In addition they also seem remarkably stress-free and organized. How, in the face of all of these challenges and more, do they keep it together? What habits do they embrace that allow them to be highly effective parents for their children?
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Habit One: They are proactive and advocate for their children and educate others.
Parents become experts about their children and their needs. They conduct ongoing research; ask questions of therapists, doctors, specialists, and other professionals; and keep an organized binder full of notes and important information. They create and add to their at-home special needs libraries. They are knowledgeable about vernacular, treatments, and services. They are well versed in the state and federal laws that regulate services for their children. Because of their knowledge parents are effective educators of their child’s faculty and staff. They are powerful advocates for treatment, services, and support-in and outside of school.
Habit Two: They maintain a sense of “normalcy” within the family.
Effective parents realize that although everyone in the family is affected by their child’s disorder, they are not defined by it. Parents work to ensure that siblings have childhoods and do not take on adult responsibilities. They encourage siblings to spend time with their friends. Parents are proactive about training other family members, friends and sitters about how to care for their child so that they can have time for themselves, individually and as a couple, perhaps going out on weekly dates. They also spend time in the company of other adult friends.
Habit Three: They take care of themselves. Parents nurture their needs, and
recognize that doing so is important for themselves as well as their children. Effective parents address themselves holistically, meaning they take care of their physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs. They eat nutritious unprocessed food and don’t skip meals. They make sure their bodies are properly hydrated. They schedule time for regular exercise, by themselves or with friends. They engage in activities that offer creative or intellectual enrichment.
Habit Four: They manage their stress.
Effective parents are intentional about reducing stress in their lives by setting time aside each day to promote calm and centering. They adopt practices such as prayer, deep breathing and meditation to replenish their inner reserves. Rebecca, a mom of a son who has a diagnosis of autism, says, “When in doubt I choose grace, to forgive people for letting me down or for rejecting my son, for whatever reason.” When parents lead lives that are stress-free and balanced, all family members, especially children, win. Research, by the Gottman Institute supports that children fare better emotionally, socially, and academically when parents manage their stress properly.
Habit Five: They make rest a priority.
While any parent can tire in their parenting responsibilities, parenting a child with special needs can elevate fatigue to a whole different level. Sometime parents
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don’t realize the extent of their exhaustion. I didn’t. My child’s physical therapist pointed this out to me. Effective parents realize the importance of getting to bed as early as possible, or taking naps to offset the sleep they lose due to their child’s irregular sleep patterns-up and down throughout the night, late to bed, and/or early to rise.
Habit Six: They surround themselves with energy givers.
People are either energy zappers or energy givers. Effective parents opt to spend time in the company of people who lift them up, make them feel confident, positive, and happy. They realize energy givers help them to feel energized, inspired and motivated. Parents of special needs children appreciate and need this energy.
Habit Seven: They have a support group.
Parenting a child with special needs can be lonely, however there is no need to be alone in the journey. Effective parents are part of or have created a group of parents whose parenting journeys are similar to theirs. Christy, a single mother of a child with mental health issues shares, “I’ve found that meeting and sharing with people who have raised children with similar issues helps me. They understand what I deal with without me having to explain it. Their support helps me to be calm when I’m with my child.” GPP
Judy M. Miller savors time with her kids. She is a Certified Gottman Educator and the author of What To Expect From Your Adopted Tween and Writing to Heal Adoption Grief: Making Connections & Moving Forward.
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Autism Pensacola
Helps improve the lives of those affected by autism and related disorders. The goals of Autism Pensacola are to educate the general public about autism, to serve as a support group for parents and professionals, to provide information to parents and professionals regarding the diagnosis, education and treatment of persons with autism, to obtain better services for the citizens of the Pensacola area who are affected by autism and to provide social opportunities for those with autism through camps and other activities. 850-434-7171
www.autismpensacola.org
Autism Society of America
Autism Society of America provides services in the areas of advocacy, education, awareness and research. We provide free, comprehensive, bilingual Information and Referral services via our toll-free number and through our online referral database, Autism Source TM. Our contact center is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. 800-328-8476
www.autism-society.org
Autism Society of the Emerald Coast
The mission of the Autism Society of the Emerald Coast is to serve as the leading voice and resource of the local autism community. The Society is organized exclusively for charitable & educational purposes, more specifically to ensure that all individuals affected by autism will be provided a network of opportunities to become fully accepted, included, and actively participating members of our community, through family support, education, advocacy and public awareness. 850-496-3062
ADD/ADHD Adult, Children and Family Counseling
1318 Dunmire Street Suite 3, Pensacola, FL 32504 At Adult Children & Family Counseling, we take a completely personalized approach to ADD and ADHD therapy, using every tool at our disposal to help our Pensacola, FL patients better manage their symptoms and enjoy an enhanced quality of life. 850-417-8991
www.pensacolatherapytreatment.com
Attention Deficit Disorder Assoc. (ADDA)
The Attention Deficit Disorder Association provides information; resources and networking opportunities to help adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder lead better lives. We provide hope, empowerment and connections worldwide by bringing together science and the human experience for both adults with ADHD and professionals who serve them. For more information call or email. 800-939-1019
www.add.org
Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorders (CHAD)
Provides education, advocacy and support for individuals with AD/HD. In addition to our informative Web site, CHADD also publishes a variety of printed materials to keep members and professionals current on research advances, medications and treatments affecting those with AD/HD. 800-233-4050
www.chadd.org
Feingold Association of the United States
Provides informational materials, online/telephone support, and resources. Helps families introduce lowadditive dietary programs for children with learning/ behavior problems and chemically sensitive adults. 631-369-9340
www.feingold.org
Focus MD
28080 US Highway 98, Suite F, Daphne, AL 36526 Focus MD is a medical practice for kids and young Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2016
people with AD/HD and related problems. Dr. James Wiley started FOCUS MD so that he would have more time to devote to the diagnosis and treatment of these patients. Focus MD provides objective testing, medical treatment as well as behavior modification strategies. 251-517-9025
www.focus-md.com
The Wolff Center for Child & Adolescent Health
1530 Airport Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32504 Our board-certified and highly qualified health providers and staff provide all your child’s healthcare needs from birth through young adulthood. We are unique in that we offer complete diagnostic and management services not found elsewhere under one roof. Our combination of medical and behavioral care and educational and family support, makes us a complete resource center for ADHD/ ADD children or adolescents and their families. 850-474-4777
www.wolffcenter.com
Autism Spectrum American Autism and Rehabilitation Center ad on Inside Front Cover
8909 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526 American Autism & Rehabilitation Center (AARC) is a facility aimed at treating a variety of special needs in one convenient location. Our services are for children and adults and include speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, psychological/diagnostic services, educational services and more. Our highly-trained professionals work collaboratively to provide treatment plans as unique as the individual in order to help patients reach their full potential. We offer a family-centered approach and seek to provide hope and help to each patient and family. 251-210-1632
www.americanautismcenter.com
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www.asecfl.com
Autism Speaks
At Autism Speaks, our goal is to change the future for all who struggle with autism spectrum disorders. We are dedicated to funding global biomedical research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a possible cure for autism. We strive to raise public awareness about autism and its effects on individuals, families, and society: and we work to bring hope to all who deal with the hardships of this disorder. We are committed to raising the funds necessary to support these goals. Autism Speaks aims to bring the autism community together as one strong voice to urge the government and private sector to listen to our concerns and take action to address this urgent global health crisis. It is our firm belief that, working together, we will find the missing pieces of the puzzle. For more information and resources, visit our website. You can also contact the Autism Response Team by calling or emailing us. Autism Response Team coordinators are specially trained to connect individuals with autism and their families with information, resources, and opportunities. 888-288-4762; en Española 888-772-9050 www.autismspeaks.org
B.I.G. Autism Foundation
The Biomedical Intervention Group (B.I.G.) Autism Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization that has been formed to bring awareness, education, and research to families. www.bigautism.com
BTEC Behavioral Therapy, Inc.
1508 West Garden Street, Pensacola, FL 32502 BTEC provides one-on-one behavioral therapy based on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) methodologies to children affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders. AT BTEC, ALL ONE-ON-ONE ABA THERAPY IS CONDUCTED EXCLUSIVELY BY A TEAM OF BOARD CERTIFIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSTS (BCBA). All BTEC practitioners hold at least a Master’s degree, have received extensive post-graduate training in the field of Applied Behav-
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Center for Autism & Related Disabilities
Programs include comprehensive and cutting-edge curricula that can be tailored to the specific needs of individuals from birth to 21 years of age. These programs help children learn to communicate, develop friendships, and lead happy, healthy lives. 850-416-4495
www.centerforautism.com
Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart Autism Center
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5190 Bayou Blvd, Bldg 2, Pensacola, FL 32503 The Autism Center of The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart offers a range of services for children on the autism spectrum, all with a family-centered approach to learning. Our services include direct, individualized Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. ABA is a research-based, systematic method for improving socially significant skills and behaviors. We also offer parent instruction and hands-on training, social skills groups for various ages, and group training for families and professionals. 850-416-4681 www.sacred-heart.org/childrenshospital/AutismCenter/
Our-Kids
Devoted to Raising Special Kids with Special Needs. The Our-Kids list consist of over 700 people representing children of varying diagnosis; everything from indefinite developmental delays and sensory integration problems, to cerebral palsy, to rare genetic disorders. www.our-kids.org
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Spectrum House - Autism Center
3771 Stefani Road, Cantonment, FL 32533 Spectrum House provides comprehensive behavioral and educational services to individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders and other related disabilities. We use research-based techniques to assist each child in developing their fullest potential, while maximizing opportunities to become self-sufficient, productive members of society. 850-564-1166
www.spectrumhouse.org
TACA (Talk About Curing Autism)
Talk About Curing Autism (TACA) is a national nonprofit 501(c) (3) organization dedicated to educating, empowering and supporting families affected by autism. For families who have just received the autism diagnosis, TACA aims to speed up the cycle time from the autism diagnosis to effective treatments. TACA helps to strengthen the autism community by connecting families and the professionals who can help them, allowing them to share stories and information to help improve the quality of life for people with autism. 855- 726-7810 or 949- 640-4401
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11081 Wanda Drive, Mobile, AL 36608 A week-long recreational program for children ages 7 to 17 with a form of juvenile arthritis or a related auto-immune disease. Our camp is planned specifically for the needs of our campers in order to empower them to live life to the fullest and to build friendships with other folks who are on similar journeys with their conditions. Camp M.A.S.H. is offered at NO COST to our families. We have some set activities that are just everyone’s favorite things to do like fishing, swimming and the ropes course, as well as horses, archery, and arts & crafts. All activities and accommodations are fully acces-
sible, and a medical staff team is on site around the clock. Camp MASH is open to children living in Alabama, Mississippi, the Florida Panhandle, and on a case by case basis other kids.
251-599-5688
www.campmash.org
Camp Skamp
P O Box 216, Baker, FL 32531 Started in 1971 for Special Kids by Meaningful People! These children suffer from physical challenges such as cerebral palsy (CP), spina bifida (SB), and similar disorders. Camp S.K.A.M.P. provides a unique experience for campers who are unable to attend other camps due to their special circumstances. ALL Counselors and Staff Members are volunteers! Campers attend camp at NO CHARGE to them. Counselors and Staff Members pay to attend camp, and the campers’ expenses are paid by generous donations from our Sponsors. www.campskamp.net
Camp Smile
3058 Dauphin Square Connector, Mobile, AL 36607 Hosted by United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile, Camp SMILE is a residential summer camp for individuals with disabilities (ages 5 – 50) and their siblings. Here, campers not only have the chance to participate in physical activities like kayaking, fishing, and horseback riding; they also meet others whose abilities and life experiences are similar to their own. www.campsmilemobile.org
Space Camp and Aviation Challenge
One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL 35805 Camps are available for fourth grade through high school-age students. Additional programs are offered for trainees who are blind or visually impaired, deaf or hard of hearing and have other special needs. 800-637-7223
www.spacecamp.com
Very Special Camps
VerySpecialCamps.com is a specialized directory dedicated exclusively to camps which serve individuals with one or more of a wide range of special needs. Locate a summer camp or program based upon your specific requirements and interests by entering your specific criteria using our Full Search, browse by Camp Type or Location, or use a Keyword Search. www.veryspecialcamps.com
Cerebral Palsy Cerebral Palsy 4 My Child
Our Mission: to provide you with the most comprehensive resource and compassionate voice for all things related to caring for a child with cerebral palsy, and other neurological conditions. We provide a comprehensive resource, including a website and call center that parents and caregivers can turn to for needed, non-legal help and resources. www.cerebralpalsy.org
United Cerebral Palsy
UCP educates, advocates and provides support services to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. UCP works to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities through an affiliate network that has helped millions. www.ucp.org
Cystic Fibrosis Cystic Fibrosis Foundation North Florida Chapter
The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is the world’s leader in the search for a cure for cystic fibrosis. We fund
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more CF research than any other organization, and nearly every CF drug available today was made possible because of Foundation support. 904-733-3560
www.cff.org/NorthFL/
Dentists Pensacola Kid’s Dentistry ad on page 7
4541 North Davis Highway, Pensacola, FL 32503 Our office provides specialized dentistry for children and adolescents in a warm, caring and “child-friendly” environment. As pediatric dentists, our 2-3 years of additional training after dental school has prepared us for the unique dental needs of each child we serve. Dr. Neil Simmons received his doctorate from the University Of Florida College Of Dentistry in 2012.Upon graduating from dental school, Dr. Simmons entered the pediatric specialty program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry. While there, he was selected as a SPARKS Trainee, furthering his knowledge and interest in delivering quality dental treatment for individuals with special needs. Dr. Allison “Allie” Simmons completed her pediatric dental training at the University of Alabama Birmingham. UAB residency provided specialty training with pediatrics and specialized in providing care to patients with special needs. 850-549-3656
www.pensacolakidsdentistry.com
Ready Set Smile ad on page 23
4500 Spanish Trail, Pensacola, FL 32504 As a pediatric dentist Dr. Laura B. McAuley received additional specialty training in the unique needs of infants, children and adolescents, including those with special health needs. At the pediatric dental office of Dr. Laura McAuley, our top priority is helping your child achieve and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile in a loving, nurturing environment. 850-505-9778
www.readysetsmile.net
Charles Stavely, DMD
1560 Airport Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32504 Everyone wants to be respected, looked in the eye, treated like an individual, and know that someone really cares about them. We have enjoyed caring for special needs patients for over 10 years at Charles Stavely DMD. Part of our mission is helping people with special needs have healthy, pain free teeth and gums. Some of the simple pleasures in life are being able to enjoy your favorite foods or flashing a smile that you are proud of. 850-479-1677
www.pensacolageneraldentist.com
Stu Bonnin, DMD
3201 East Olive Road, Pensacola, FL 32514 Dr. Stu Bonnin earned his doctorate from the University of Florida where he completed his residency in pediatric dentistry in 2001. Dr. Bonnin is on staff at Sacred Heart Hosptial and maintains active memberships with numerous professional organizations, such as American Dental Association, the Flordia Dental Association, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the Florida Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. He is a diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. 850-477-1722
Down Syndrome Down Syndrome Society of West Florida
The Down Syndrome Society of West Florida was established in 2012 as a support group for families of children with Down Syndrome. We service all counties in West Florida, including Escambia,
www.facebook.com/greaterpensacolaparents
Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, and Walton.Our mission is to offer support and encouragement to families of children with Down Syndrome. We also hope to bring awareness of DS to our communities, thereby fostering acceptance and inclusion of ALL people with Down Syndrome. Membership applications are available by e-mailing our administrators at downsyndromesocietywf@yahoo.com. Membership annual dues are $20 per family. 850-292-4796 (Amy), 850-276-9990 (Penny), 850-390-5786 (Melissa) Find us on Facebook
Dyslexia Bureau of Braille and Talking Books Library
The Florida Bureau of Braille and Talking Books Library provides information and reading materials in Braille and recorded audio format to Florida residents who are unable to use standard print as the result of visual, physical, or reading disabilities. 800-226-6075
Dianne Craft - Child Diagnostics
Wonderful website filled with information, articles and resources for all learning disabilities including dyslexia, auditory processing and right/left brain learning. We provide nutritional therapy and supplement recommendations. You can purchase Dianne’s DVDs, CDs, Books, vitamins, and other various products through her online store. 303-694-0532
www.diannecraft.org
Education Capstone Adaptive Learning & Therapy ad on page 30
4901 West Fairfield Drive, Pensacola, FL 32506 Capstone Academy is an inclusive educational learning opportunity for all children, ages birth to five years, focusing on early intervention for children with developmental disabilities or who are at risk of delay. As part of our early intervention program, children attending Capstone Academy benefit from music, art, story time, computer, dramatic play, gross motor skills (outdoor play), fine motor skills (manipulative), and free exploration. Speech, Occupational, and Physical therapies are offered at Capstone. Therapies are provided during each child’s scheduled classroom hours. Families are always welcomed and encouraged to come and take part in their child’s therapy session. 850-458-7735
www.capstoneadaptivelearning.org
Second location:
5308 Stewart Street, Milton, FL 32570 850-626-3091
www.capstoneadaptivelearning.org
East Hill Academy
440 East Hecker Road, Century, FL 32583 East Hill Academy, Inc. is a private, non-profit school established to meet the educational, emotional and social needs of children diagnosed with Autism and other related learning disabilities from grade K-12. East Hill Academy, Inc. has multiple locations in Pensacola, Milton and Century. Dedicated to providing each child with the best individual educational program, East Hill’s mission is to strengthen the students’ academic skills, as well as their social and emotional abilities to a level so they can successfully reenter mainstream education. 850-607-7069
www.easthillacademy.org
East Hill Academy
4401 Avalon Boulevard, Milton, FL 32583 East Hill Academy, Inc. is a private, non-profit school established to meet the educational, emotional and social needs of children diagnosed Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2016
with Autism and other related learning disabilities from grade K-12. East Hill Academy, Inc. has multiple locations in Pensacola, Milton and Century. Dedicated to providing each child with the best individual educational program, East Hill’s mission is to strengthen the students’ academic skills, as well as their social and emotional abilities to a level so they can successfully reenter mainstream education.
Playing with Words 365
East Hill Academy
Epilepsy Foundation of Florida
850-607-7069
www.easthillacademy.org
625 West Garden Street, Pensacola, FL 32502 East Hill Academy, Inc. is a private, non-profit school established to meet the educational, emotional and social needs of children diagnosed with Autism and other related learning disabilities from grade K-12. East Hill Academy, Inc. has multiple locations in Pensacola, Milton and Century. Dedicated to providing each child with the best individual educational program, East Hill’s mission is to strengthen the students’ academic skills, as well as their social and emotional abilities to a level so they can successfully reenter mainstream education. 850-607-7069
www.easthillacademy.org
Florida Diagnostic Learning & Resource System
FDLRS/Emerald Coast is pleased to provide training and support for parents and educators throughout Escambia, Santa Rosa, and Okaloosa counties, focused on improving the student achievement of exceptional and gifted education students. Services are data-driven and focused on improving student achievement. www.fdlrs-k12-ct.schoolloop.com
Learning Ally
For Learning Ally helping students overcome challenges and succeed is what drives us. We strive to develop the best educational solutions, from audiobooks to support services, for blind, visually impaired and dyslexic students from kindergarten through college and beyond. 800-221-4792
www.learningally.org
Learning Rx
4300 Bayou Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32503 LearningRx Brain Training works on the cognitive skills the brain uses to think, read, learn, remember, and pay attention. How we work on those skills is what makes us so unique in the industry: Our clients work face-to-face with personal brain trainers, doing fun, challenging mental exercises that train foundational brain skills including auditory processing, memory, logic, and more. While many of our clients are children who are struggling in school, we serve children and adults of all ages. 850-466-4999
www.learningrx.com/pensacola
Montessori School of Pensacola
4100 Montessori Drive, Pensacola, FL 32504 In fall of 2015, MSP started a pilot program: Elementary Transitions Program (ETP). This classroom provides a highly structured and individualized program with no greater than a five-to-one student-teacher ratio. The curriculum adheres to Montessori principles, philosophy and methodology. The staff includes teachers specifically suited to working with children who exhibit learning challenges. Individualized learning plans are developed for every student in the class and students are guided in their unique course of academic progression while emphasizing the strengths within each child. MSP’s ETP classroom provides specific instruction and remediation for those with challenges in the areas of reading, mathematics, language, written expression, attention, socialization, and organization. This classroom has limited space and is open to students in grades 1 through 6 (Lower and Upper Elementary) and will also act as a resource room for any student who may need additional help. 850-469-8138
www.montessoripensacola.com
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Are resource to build speech and language skills in everyday experiences. At the time of this print the website was having problems however you can find them on Facebook! www.playingwithwords365.com
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Epilepsy Leads the fight to overcome the challenges of living with epilepsy and to accelerate therapies to stop seizures, find cures, and save lives. 877-553-7453
www.efof.org
Epilepsy Parent Support Group
Parents of children with epilepsy support group of Escambia and Santa Rosa. Call for meeting place and times. 850-433-1395
Financial Disabled Children Relief Fund
The Disabled Children’s Relief Fund is a national, non-profit organization dedicated to acting as an advocate for the rights and needs of children with disabilities. Founded in 1990, DCRF provides cash grants for disabled children, with preference given to families who do not have health insurance. Grants are provided for assistive devices, equipment, and rehabilitative services, as well as for innovative arts and humanitarian services for children with disabilities. DCRF publishes a regular newsletter entitled “The Challenger.” 516-377-1605 www.rarediseases.org/organizations/ disabled-childrens-relief-fund/
iBudget Florida
iBudget Florida gives the Agency for Persons with Disabilities customers more control and flexibility to choose services that are important to them, while helping the agency to stay within its Medicaid waiver appropriation. 850-488-4257
www.apd.myflorida.com/ibudget/
Joyful Journey Mom’s Ultimate Guide
Joyful Journey Mom posted the “Ultimate List of Grants and Resources for Families with Special Needs”.
www.joyfuljourneymom.com/ultimate-list-of-grants-andresources-for-families-with-special-needs/
Rehab Foundation of NW Florida
2929 Langley Ave, Ste 202, Pensacola, FL 32504 Funding for rehabilitation of those physically disabled, but who do not have, or are not eligible for financial resources or support from other agencies. 850-478-0297 https://escambia.communityos.org/zf/ profile/service/id/174789
The Gardiner Scholarhip (PLSA)
The Gardiner Scholarship (PLSA) program helps parents individualize the educational plans for their children with certain special needs. The program, previously called the Personal Learning Scholarship Account, was named the Gardiner Scholarship in January of 2016. The Gardiner Scholarship (PLSA) is different than other state scholarships in that it allows parents to personalize the education of their children with unique abilities by directing money toward a combination of programs and approved providers. These include schools, therapists, specialists, curriculum, technology – even a college savings account. This scholarship is for Florida students 3 years old through 12th grade or age 22, whichever comes first, with one of the following disabilities: autism spectrum disorder, muscular
www.greaterpensacolaparents.com
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dystrophy, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, PraderWilli syndrome, Spina bifida, Williams syndrome, Phelan-McDermid syndrome or intellectual disability (severe cognitive impairment). Also, students ages 3, 4 or 5 deemed “high risk” due to developmental delays may be eligible for the year they apply.
Canine Companions for Independence
Largest non-profit organization that enhances the lives of people with disabilities by providing highly trained assistance dogs and ongoing support to ensure quality partnerships. We train four types of assistance dogs to master over 40 specialized commands: Service Dogs, Skilled Companions, Hearing Dogs and Facility Dogs. www.cci.org
Volunteers in the Therapeutic Recreation and Occupational Therapy programs. 251-471-1581
www.goodwill-easterseals.org
Emergency Preparedness ESC Special Needs
A Special Needs Shelter is a shelter of last resort for people who need more medical supervision than a general population shelter can provide due to special medical needs, but they do not require hospitalization. Registration is voluntary. This registry is for planning purposes. Assistance needed by individuals must be initiated at the time of need by the individual by calling local officials when evacuations have been ordered. All registrations expire after one year and must be updated on the anniversary of the registration.
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850-595-6500
Center for Parent Information and Resources
Escambia County Area Transit (ECAT)
3600 North Pace Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32505 This service provides trained staff to teach independent living skills: budgeting, writing for resume and job applications, and employment readiness.
Serves as a central resource of information and products to the community of Parent Training Information (PTI) Centers and the Community Parent Resource Centers (CPRCs), so that they can focus their efforts on serving families of children with disabilities.
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www.parentcenterhub.org
Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart Early Steps
5150 Bayou Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32503 The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart is the site of the Western Panhandle Early Steps Program which provides early intervention services for children from birth to three years of age who may have developmental delays living in Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa and Walton counties.
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Please visit the website for further eligibility requirements. Click on For Parents then Special Needs Scholarship. www.stepupforstudents.org
General Resources 4 Paws for Ability
4 Paws for Ability enriches the lives of children with disabilities by training and placing quality, tasktrained service dogs. www.4pawsforability.org
Agency for Persons with Disabilities
The APD works in partnership with local communities and private providers to assist people who have developmental disabilities and their families. APD also provides assistance in identifying the needs of people with developmental disabilities for supports and services. 850-595-8351
www.apd.myflorida.com
ARC Gateway-Escambia
Develop innovative ways to help children and adults with developmental disabilities reach their full potential. 850-434-2638
www.arc-gateway.org
ARC-Santa Rosa
Provides services and opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Santa Rosa County, Florida. 850-623-3920
www.thearcsantarosa.org
Children’s Medical Service
Collection of programs for eligible children with special needs. Each one of our programs and services are family-centered and designed to help children with a variety of conditions and needs. 800-381-3685 CMS-Kids
www.floridahealth.gov/AlternateSites/
Disability Resource Center (CIL)
3600 North Pace Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32505 Our mission is to assist individuals with disabilities achieve their goals of independence. 850-595-5566
www.cil-drc.org
Disability Rights Florida
Statewide designated protection and advocacy system for individuals with disabilities in the State of Florida. Disability Rights Florida is a not-for-profit corporation that has authority and responsibility under eight federal grants. Our services are free and confidential. 800-342-0823
www.disabilityrightsflorida.org
Easter Seals of Gulf Coast
2448 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile, AL 36617 Parent Education and Support, Child Development Centers, Early Intervention and a Wonderful Recreation Program that provides school-age children (6 - 12) of all abilities the opportunity to participate in a variety of community activities. Sessions include gymnastics, rock wall climbing, bowling, skating, music & movement, and tee ball. The University of South Alabama assists our staff by utilizing
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www.bereadyescambia.com
ADA Transportation. 850-595-0501
Especial Needs
Especial Needs is dedicated to providing our clients with the best selection of adaptive equipment, rehab equipment and therapy solutions for children and adults with special needs. With over 10,000 special needs products focused to mobility, sensory needs and independent living, our experienced staff strives to provide the highest quality service. From the homepage, at the bottom, click on “Funding” to see a list of funding resources. 877-664-4565
www.especialneeds.com
Family Care Council Florida
The mission of the Family Care Council Florida (FCCF) is to advocate, educate, and empower individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, partnering with the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD), to bring quality services to individuals for dignity and choice. FCCA Area 1 serves the Florida Panhandle. The website for Area 1 is www.area1fcc.org. 800-470-8101
www.fccflorida.org or www.area1fcc.org
FDLRS/Child Find (ages 3-5yrs)
30 East Texar Drive, Pensacola, FL 32503 Our Child Find Specialists provide free developmental, speech, language, hearing, and vision screenings for non-public school children potentially in need of specialized educational services. In August 2015, we welcomed the Florida Inclusion Network (FIN) Facilitator. The FIN facilitator will primarily work in Escambia, Santa Rosa, and Okaloosa counties with families and districts to develop inclusive educational opportunities for exceptional education students. The SEDNET Specialist works to provide supports and training for families and educators working with children at-risk for behavioral concerns. 850-469-5423
www.fdlrsemeraldcoast.org
Florida Alliance of Assistive Services and Technology
3333 West Pensacola St, Tallahassee, FL 32304 The Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology, Inc. serves Floridians with disabilities by providing free access to information, referral services, educational programs, and publications in accessible formats on topics such as disability rights, laws, and policies. We also provide assistive technology (AT) device loans as well as funding opportunities for AT. AT is any item, piece of equipment, software, or product system that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the function of individuals with disabilities. 888-788-9216
www.faast.org
www.facebook.com/greaterpensacolaparents
Guide Dog Foundation
To improve the quality of life for people who are blind, have low vision, or have other special needs. 800-548-4337
www.guidedog.org
Kids Health from Nemours
KidsHealth is the most-visited site on the Web for information about health, behavior, and development from before birth through the teen years. www.kidshealth.org
March of Dimes
202 West Jackston Street, Pensacola, FL 32501 Every year in the United States, nearly half a million babies are born too soon, 29,000 of them right here in Florida. With your help, we work to improve the health of babies and support families if something does go wrong. 850-462-7756
www.marchofdimes.com/florida
able in both Escambia and Santa Rosa counties and is offered to those with any developmental disability, based on a prioritization of risk factors. Project Lifesaver is a program that features bracelets that emit a radio signal which search and rescue personnel can use to track and locate an individual who is missing. Please visit our website or call for a preliminary screening form and detailed information.
850-471-7171 www.autismpensacola.org/ projectlifesaver.html
Santa America
A national volunteer service organization with a very special mission. Over one hundred Santa’s across America visit children and families in crisis. Santa Claus visits when a child or family needs him—twelve months a year—bringing love, hope and joy to special needs children in a loving visit of about an hour at home, hospital, or hospice. Santa’s visits are free. There is no charge for a visit from Santa Claus—ever. 251-626-6609 www.santaamerica.org
Sight Savers America
Marcus Pointe Baptist Church ESC Project Empower Disability Services
6205 North “W” Street, Pensacola, FL 32505 Empower is a Coalition for supporting persons with developmental disabilities . The coalition provides tools and training for individuals with disabilities and the community at large. The coalition actively connects those in the community who can help each other. 850-686-9369
Nemours Children’s Specialty Care
5153 North Ninth Avenue, Pensacola, FL 32504 Nemours Children’s Specialty Care, Pensacola serves children and families in northwest Florida, south Alabama and beyond, offering highly specialized pediatric care. Located right next door to The Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart, our children’s specialty care location provides compassionate care in a welcoming, kid-friendly environment. Our experienced pediatric teams work together with your child’s pediatrician or family care provider, pediatric specialists and researchers throughout Nemours and our partners at The Children’s Hospital to achieve the very best outcome for your child. One of our most important partnerships is with you because we believe in family-centered care. We value your input and welcome your questions so that, together, we can help your child grow up healthy. 850-505-4700
www.nemours.org
Project Lifesaver
API in partnership with Escambia Search and Rescue and the Pilot Club of Pensacola is proud to offer Project Lifesaver for individuals with autism who are at risk of wandering. This program is availGreater Pensacola Parents I September 2016
337 Business Circle, Pelham, AL 35124 Sight Savers America works to identify and secure treatment for these needs, from the first pair of eyeglasses that allow a child to succeed academically and gain more self-confidence, to extensive sight saving treatment for serious eye conditions. With the help of our partners and donors, we work to ensure that every child is as healthy as he or she can be! Sight Savers America is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) that assists children with obtaining eye exams, glasses, and other needed eye care from local eye care providers and clinics. 877-942-2627
www.sightsaversamerica.org
Southeast ADA Center
Your leader in providing information, training, and guidance on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and disability access tailored to the needs of business, government, and individuals at local, state, and regional levels. We also conduct research to reduce and eliminate barriers to employment and economic self-sufficiency and to increase the civic and social participation of Americans with disabilities. 800-949-4232
www.adasoutheast.org
Speech-Language-Hearing AssociationFlorida
Committed to ensuring that all people with speech, language, and hearing disorders receive services to help them communicate effectively. 256-325-8885 contacts/
www.asha.org/advocacy/state/info/FL/
Tommy Hilfiger Adaptive Clothing
Tommy Hilfiger proudly partnered with Runway of Dreams™ to create a very special collection addressing the challenges the differently-abled community faces each day when getting dressed. Faux buttons and cuff plackets conceal a patented MagnaReady® magnet closure for ease of dressing. www.tommy.com
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Recreation/Therapy Labelle Performing Arts ad on page 30
8253 Chellie Road, Pensacola, FL 32526 Labelle Performing Arts special needs class is designed for dancers with disabilities of all ages. The students are introduced to basic terminology and steps. The class is modified and structured to move at the pace of each students learning capacity and ability. Each student will be instructed on their individual level. The students will also be invited to perform at our end of the year showcase. We hope to enrich these wonderful young people with the world of dance while offering them the opportunity to express themselves through the art of movement. 850-944-5650
www.labelleperformingarts.com
Pensacola Museum of Art ad on pages 3 and 17
407 South Jefferson Street, Pensacola, FL 32502 Art Academy for Autism is an arts education initiative designed for children on the autism spectrum. The program focuses on nurturing artistic development and abstract thinking skills within a group environment. It also seeks to provide respite time for parents to enjoy the beautiful downtown area. An art instructor leads each class with additional assistants who have experience working with autistic children. Call for details regarding our next Art Academy!
850-432-6247 www.pensacolamuseum.org/children.html
SkyZone Sensory Sundays ad on pages 5, 11, 18 and 35
5007 North Davis Highway, Unit 8A, Pensacola, FL 32503 Every second and last Sunday of every month, from 10am-11am, Sky Zone will turn off the music and dial down the distractions for the comfort of our extra special jumpers. We welcome children and adults with special needs and their siblings, family and friends to jump for 60 minutes for $10. We will make every effort to accommodate all jumpers with any kind of special needs. Please call us if you have specific questions. 850-462-9800 www.skyzone.com/pensacola/promos-deals
Access To Recreation
Provides exercise and recreational equipment for people with disabilities. Online equipment items such wheelchair accessories, daily living, replacement parts, bath and shower accessories, Lifts, safety equipment, ramps, manual and power chairs, etc. 800-634-4351
www.accesstr.com
AMBUCS
A charitable service organization dedicated to creating mobility and independence for people with disabilities by providing AmTryke therapeutic tricycles to children with disabilities. 800-838-1845
www.ambucs.org
Autism Surfs
Mary Esther, FL Autism Surfs is a community of friends and families that have come together with the purpose of teaching children with Autism Spectrum Disorder to surf. Contact us through Facebook message. Find us on Facebook
Breathe Pensacola - Yoga
505 South Adams Street or 3101 East Cervantes Street, Pensacola, FL 32502 We offer private sessions or small classes designed for children who have special needs, including
www.greaterpensacolaparents.com
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ADD/ADHD, sensory integration disorders, highfunctioning autism, Down syndrome, and neurological learning disabilities. Regular yoga practice, as an adjunct to traditional PT and OT therapies, can enhance a child’s physical, mental and emotional development in a safe and gentle manner. Christa Sonnier is trained and certified in the Sonia Sumar Method of Yoga for the Special Child and offers private sessions and classes to best serve the needs of your child. Please contact christa@breathepcola.com.
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850-470-4444
www.breathepcola.com
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39821 Duffee Lane, Bay Minette, AL 36507 Provides physical therapy specializing in hippotherapy for special little buckaroos. Kristye Chastang is certified to use hippotherapy as a treatment tool for children with disabilities. Hippotherapy is a therapy tool which uses the movement of the horse to influence the patient’s posture, balance, stability & sensory processing. The therapist can direct the movement of the horse, analyze the patient’s response and adjust the treatment accordingly. It is rewarding for every one involved & is so much fun, the kids won’t even know its therapy. 251-604-3904
www.buckaroobarnllc.com
Captains for Kids
Annual day of fun activities (September 10 this year!) on the water for kids with special needs and illness’. We offer fishing charters, dolphin cruises, pirate cruises, sailing charters, parasailing, banana boat rides, airboat rides and more. 850-438-5555
www.captainsforkids.com
Equine Education Consultants, Inc. at Lake Forest Stables
268 Equine Circle, Daphne, AL 36526 Equine Educational Consultants, Inc. was created to provide an opportunity for those with special needs to experience the joy and motivation that horses provide just by allowing us to share their world. For more information call or email the Stables. 251-210-8819
www.lakeforeststables.org
Grace Rides
1560 Hickory Street, Niceville, FL 32578 Our mission at GRACE Rides is to provide the therapeutic benefits of equine-assisted activities to individuals with special needs, and in so doing to improve the lives and community of each of our riders and their family members, each of our service horses, and each of our volunteers. GRACE Rides is an approved Professional Association for Therapeutic Horsemanship (“PATH”” International Center. 850-259-9195
www.gracerides.com
Miracle League of Pensacola
The Miracle League of Pensacola’s mission is to provide a safe organized baseball league and facilities for Gulf Coast persons with mental and/ or physical challenges where every player plays, every player hits, every player gets on base, every player scores, and every player wins – every inning. 850-232-3845 or 850-393-5043 www.miracleleaguepensacola.org
Pyramid
7309 West Highway 98, Pensacola, FL 32506 Adults ages 18 and up with developmental disabilities are able to see themselves as singers, dancers, talented artists, sculptors and jewelers creators with some earning commissions and fees, gaining self-esteem and self confidence, participating richly in the life of their communities. Pyramid offers an arts program, in tandem with a curriculum of computer and literacy training, peer counseling and skill-development classes, physical-nutritional and behavioral assistance. Contact us for information about our performances and gallery shows that are open to the public. 850-453-3341
www.pyramidinc.org
Sea No Limits Fishing Clinic
Community Maritime Park, Pensacola, FL 32502 Free fishing clinic Saturday, October 8, for children and adults with physical or intellectual disabilities requiring supervised care. Strictly limited to the first 250 applicants (plus up to 2 additional family members/guardians/care. Pre-Registration for the Fishing Clinic is required.
Services American Autism and Rehabilitation Center ad on Inside Front Cover
1501 North Q Street, Pensacola, FL 32501 To promote and foster the success and growth of children who are economically, physically, and mentally challenged by providing individualized attention as a part of a structured competitive swim team program. To improve the quality of life for challenged children by developing successful studentathlete skills. These skills help aid their pursuit of higher education and achievement of life goals.
8909 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526 American Autism & Rehabilitation Center (AARC) is a facility aimed at treating a variety of special needs in one convenient location. Our services are for children and adults and include speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, psychological/diagnostic services, educational services and more. Our highly-trained professionals work collaboratively to provide treatment plans as unique as the individual in order to help patients reach their full potential. We offer a family-centered approach and seek to provide hope and help to each patient and family.
Special Olympics ESC Sports and Training Program
Spina Bifida
850-932-2213
www.lodge347.net
SEASTARS Aquatics
850-418-0644
www.seastarsaquatics.org
2001 East Lloyd Street, Pensacola, FL 32503 Special Olympics provides year-round sports training and competition to children and adults 8 years of age and older with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They give children and adults the opportunity to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, participate in sharing skills, and build friendships. 850-291-6234 escambia/
www.specialolympicsflorida.org/
Tennis 4 Everyone
415 East Intendencia Street, Pensacola, FL 32502 Tennis-4-Everyone is a nonprofit organization that provides free tennis lessons to local youth attending summer camps at various locations in the Pensacola area. 850-292-0126
www.tennispensacola.com
The Leaning Post Ranch
4150 Cedar Springs Road, Molino, FL 32577 The Leaning Post Ranch’s mission is to provide equine assisted activities and therapeutic riding to individuals with disabilities and at-risk youth in Northwest Florida. We offer health, hope, and healing through horses. The Leaning Post Ranch is a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH) Premier Accredited Center. PATH was founded to provide the framework for equine facilitated therapies and activities. As a Premier Accredited Center, our facility adheres to PATH standards for safety and high quality service. 850-587-5940
www.theleaningpsotranch.org
URU Yoga
955 East Nine Mile Road, Pensacola, FL 32514 Offers private instruction for children with special needs. Call for details. 850-377-5334
www.uruyoga.com
Water Planet Dolphin Therapy
203 Greenwood Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32407 We offer 2 therapy options to interact with the dolphins. The Harmony Program we have found can help a wide variety of children: most spectra of autism, manic depression, Rett Syndrome, Tourette’s Syndrome, ADHD, Down, and hyperactivity. Our Serenity Program caters to children with serious developmental delays, physical and motor disabilities like Cerebral Palsy, Head and Spinal Cord Injury, Mitochondrial Disorder. Spina Bifida, Muscular Dystrophy, Angelman’s Syndrome and other disabilities, which require body work and specialized interventions. 850-230-6030
www.waterplanetusa.com
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251-210-1632
www.americanautismcenter.com
Spina Bifida Association of Central Florida
The Spina Bifida Association of Central Florida (SBACFL) is a dedicated group of individuals living with Spina Bifida and their families, as well as professionals and community volunteers, working to educate, advocate, network, provide resources and bring about public awareness of Spina Bifida. 407-248-9210
www.sbacentralflorida.org
Support Groups 22q.11 Deletion and Other Syndromes Linked to 22Q
Join us for Annual Awareness Day at the Gulf Breeze zoo on May 22nd. 520-444-9498
Apraxia of Speech of the Panhandle 850-398-6758
Facing Forward
Parents of children with facial abnormalities. 850-476-2701
Mended Little Hearts of Pensacola
Mended Little Hearts has provided patients and families of children with congenital heart disease many services that directly improve their quality of life. These services are group programs, education resources, hospital outreach CHD Awareness initiatives, online connections and advocacy. To locate the Pensacola chapter click Find MLH groups at the top right corner of the website or email mendedlittleheartsofpensacola@gmail.com. 850-972-8160
www.mendedlittlehearts.org
Pensacola Exceptional Parents Connection
This is a parent-led group open to parents, friends, and support people of children with varying exceptionalities including Down syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Autism, Spina Bifida, and any other intellectual and developmental disabilities. Our mission is to enhance the lives of children with varying exceptionalities by providing resources, training, education, and emotional support to families. The goal of this group is to provide a regularly scheduled meeting of parents who will support each other by listening, sharing, and laughing. This is a friendly place to share concerns and ask questions, and for answers to be given by others who have “been through it.” We have speakers on various topics and open discussions about relevant topics to the group. All are welcome to join us! we meet the last Thursday of every month at Arc Gateway,
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physician. Therapies are provided in spacious therapy rooms and emphasis is upon coaching parents on activities to help with their child’s motor, sensory, self-help, visual and speech/language development. Speech and sensory screenings can be arranged at childcare centers. 850-434-7755
www.arc-gateway.org
The Listening Program
Music listening therapy that provides engaging brain stimulation to improve performance in school, work and life. It gently trains the auditory system to accurately process sound. Auditory processing problems can lead to academic, emotional, cognitive and social challenges, including problems with ADD, Listening, Speech & language, memory, communication, Social skills, reading, Sensory Integration, Balance and coordination and self-regulation. Auditory processing problems are often found in children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADD, dyslexia and learning disabilities. 888-228-1798
www.advancedbrain.com
Vision Impaired American Sign Language University Resources to help learn ASL. 4901 West Fairfield Dr., Pensacola, FL 32506 Phone: (850) 458-7735
5308 Stewart Street Milton, FL 32570 Phone: (850) 626-3091
• charter school for ESE pre-K • child care center • speech, occupational & pediatric therapies • low student-teacher ratio
CapstoneLearning.org
www.lifeprint.com
Bureau of Braille and Talking Books Library
The Florida Bureau of Braille and Talking Books Library provides information and reading materials in Braille and recorded audio format to Florida residents who are unable to use standard print as the result of visual, physical, or reading disabilities. 800-226-6075
Florida Division of Blind Services
Pollak Training Center, located at 1000 E. Fairfield Drive at 6:00 p.m. 850-384-7330 or 850-393-8808
The Starfish Project NWFL
7552 Navarre Pkwy, Suite 32, Navarre, FL 32566 We currently provide parent education and support in addition to providing opportunities for families to connect during fun seasonal events. These resources are available to _x0003_a myriad of children and families with a wide variety of exceptional needs. 850-396-9934
www.thestarfishprojectnwfl.org
Therapy Baptist Health Care Speech Center
1000 West Moreno Street, Pensacola, FL 32501 Baptist Hospital’s Speech Center’s friendly, expert therapists assist people with speaking difficulties. Our certified speech pathologists treat a wide range of disorders for people of all ages—from newborns to adults. All staff members hold the Speech–Language–Hearing Association’s Certificate of Clinical Competence and are licensed by the state of Florida. 850-434-4957
Center for Pediatric Rehabilitation
1108-A Airport Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32504 We are Pensacola’s first and most experienced pediatric rehabilitation center offering speech, occupational and physical therapies for children with developmental, neurological and organic disorders. Our team provides the most current treatment approaches, in a family friendly environment, to help children reach their highest potential. 850-471-1005 www.centerforpediatricrehabilitation.com
Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2016
Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart Pediatric Rehabilitation Center
5151 N 9th Avenue #1405, Pensacola, FL 32504 Our comprehensive program includes physical, occupational, speech, aquatic, social skills and foodaversion therapies. Our facilities feature a spacious, kid-friendly gym, as well as private treatment rooms. Our experienced therapists are specially trained in care for children and are dedicated to serving kids of all ages.
850-416-7340 www.sacred-heart.org/ChildrensHospital/ PediatricTherapy/
Pediatric Therapy Center of NWFL
4624 Summerdale Boulevard, Pace, FL 32571 Pediatric Therapy Center of NWFL was established as a provider of occupational, physical and speech therapy to children from birth to twenty one years of age. We serve children in clinic environments, child care centers, homes, and schools in Okaloosa, Santa Rosa and Escambia counties. The PTC team of pediatric specialists includes occupational therapists, physical therapists, and speech therapists who work closely together to create individualized treatment plans. Therapy is carried out in an atmosphere focused on creativity and fun, where every child can be successful. 850-994-3456 www.pediatrictherapycenterflorida.com
The Arc Gateway/Pearl Nelson Child Development Center
916 East Fairfield Drive, Pensacola, FL Pearl Nelson Child Development Center provides early intervention and pediatric therapy services for children ages, infants through adolescents who have developmental delays or diagnosed disabilities. PNCDC team includes a large number of speech, occupational, physical and developmental therapists who work in a coordinated team approach to best meet the needs of the children and their families. PT, OT and Speech services require a prescription from the child’s primary care
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600 University Office Boulevard, Suite 4, Pensacola, FL 32504 We strive to ensure blind and visually-impaired Floridians have the tools, support and opportunity to achieve success. 850-484-5122
http://dbs.myflorida.com
Independence for the Blind of NW Florida
Our mission is to teach independent living skills, computer and adaptive technology, and to provide vocational training, and employment-related services to people who are blind or visually impaired so they can achieve maximum independence. 850-477-2663
Ma ne to po for inc rea ing
www.ibwest.org
Websites/Publications Love That Max
A list of 22 free things, services and grants for kids with special needs. www.lovethatmax.com/2015/04/free-things-for-kidswith-special-needs.html
Parent Involvement Exceptional Education in Florida
Website providing resources for early intervention and exceptional student education. http://forparents.florida-ese.org/index.aspx
Parenting Special Needs Magazine
We are making it our mission to provide parents of children with special needs of all ages and stages of life, both information and inspiration. Through Parenting Special Needs On Line Magazine, we’ve created a world that provides practical tips, shares life’s lessons, tackles the challenges and celebrates the joys of one of life’s greatest gifts.
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www.parentingspecialneeds.org
Pathways.org
Free tools for child development. www.pathways.og GPP
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Help Your Children Make School Friends Not all children make friends easily. Many kids do not have a built-in social network. How can we as parents step in to help? Three methods have been supportive in developing positive companions for my two kids. My successful strategies include observing in my kid’s classroom, reaching out to other parents, and scheduling a public or at-home play date.
tact information to the parents I wished to meet. One parent sent me a text stating how her daughter really enjoyed playing at recess with my girl. That prompted me to ask if she’d like to have a play date. We made arrangements a few weeks later and a budding friendship soon formed. Another approach is to seek out friendly folks during school assembly programs or open house events. Talk to other parents
Observe in the classroom Spend an hour volunteering in your child’s classroom at the start of the school year. Talk to the teacher about selecting a good time to come in for a visit. My oldest daughter has a birthday in October so I typically ask if I can bring in an educational game along with treats for the students around her birth date. I observe and assist in a fun activity. What I witness in that short duration determines the friend potential for my child. I monitor the good listeners versus those who are not following directions or who may be acting out. I also notice the children who are being kind or receptive to my daughter. After a half hour of classroom time, I could select students who may make a great companion for my child. I could also confer with the teacher on the kids’ behaviors too. This tactic has worked well in finding pals for my daughter the last two years.
Reach out to other parents After you monitor classroom activities, reach out to the parents of the children you liked. My child’s teacher was kind enough to pass along my name and con-
home to a play date, make it time-limited to start. Keep in mind the age range and plan around hours when children may be more irritable or hungry. My favorite times are either 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. or 2:00 pm to 4:00 p.m. so I can avoid planning extra meals. Talk to the other parent and children to learn their habits, preferences or anything notable such as allergies or worries. I stay with my children at least three times before I am willing to leave them alone or drop them off for a visit without my supervision. Determine your own comfort level and safety rules for play dates.
Friendships are worth struggles and exertion and see if a connection sparks. I have experienced great conversation with other moms and dads, even when I did not know anyone in the room. After a few exchanges, I hand the other parent my personal card with contact details on it. I ask for the other parents’ information. Then I say, “Let’s schedule a time for our kids to play” and I follow up on that offer.
Schedule a public or at-home play date Parents may be more comfortable meeting in a public space while they first get to know another family. Great options for a meet-up include the park, library or a kid-friendly museum. This can be less intimidating and a great way to be a local tourist in your community. When you are ready or comfortable to open up your 31
Play dates may not go smoothly each time. As parents we should expect some toy squabbling, crying and messes to occur. Still try to remain optimistic about the effort spent. Early friendship fostering is important. Play time with friends assists families in the understanding of the world around them so take steps to develop friends for your children.
Mandy B. Fernandez is a writer living in Pensacola, Florida with her husband and two children. She writes creatively and professionally on topics such as family life, parenting, natural foods, education, and business. In addition she loves sharing humorous stories, poetry and essays about womanhood and motherhood. She is completing her first children’s book. Learn more about her at www.writtenbymandy.com.
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Architects at Any Age
Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids
Once small hands successfully stack one block upon another, the interest in building and design is ignited. The power to envision and construct an edifice of their own design with their own hands is an inspirational tool to cultivate architectural enthusiasm in children. In addition to empowering creativity, crafting buildings fosters fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination as well as supporting STEM development. From the simplest structure to complex edifices, the following building sets offer kids developmental play with a world of design options!
by Gerry Paige Smith
4D Cityscape New York
Archiquest Master Builder Wooden Building Blocks
(4D Cityscape)
(T.S. Shure)
Part puzzle, part model, the 4D Cityscape expands beyond simple construction giving young talents a taste of city planning and design. Recreating the famous Manhattan footprint with a traditional 2D jigsaw puzzle, the set takes on its 3D aspect with over 100 buildings that fit into pre-cut holes in the finished puzzle. The fourth dimension to explore is time as buildings from 1812 through 2013 can populate the city. Famous landmarks such as the World Trade Towers, Empire State Building, Freedom Tower, Statue of Liberty are some of the iconic architecture that stand tall in the Manhattan realm. Once young builders master the Big Apple, they can set their sights on additional 4D Cityscape projects such as Washington DC, Rome, London and many more!
Melissa & Doug Architectural Units
KEVA Brain Builders
From designing roads and bridges to stacking up towering structures, Archiquest Building Blocks lay the world of architecture at a child’s feet. Featuring 136 precision-cut solid wood blocks in both primary and natural colors, the Archiquest block set encourages young builders to create from the ground up. The set comes with a wooden box without a lid so an alternate tub or bag is recommended for easier storage. Whether inspiring free form creative design or guiding building skills from the illustrated instruction booklet, kids can experience growing confidence that comes with the power to construct their visions.
(Mindware)
Doubling down on the benefits of playing with blocks, the Keva set pairs brain development with the customary growth in motor skills that come with construction play. The Keva kit comes with 20 planks and a set of 30 double-sided puzzle cards. The cards offer a two-dimensional representation of a building and the challenge to young builders is to recreate the structure in three-dimensions. The flip side of the card offers the blueprint so kids can check their work or get the help they need to master the task. The variety of building projects ranges from structures to fanciful beasts, keeping the challenges fresh and engaging. Boosting kids understanding of geometry, composition, proportion and engineering, the KEVA Brain Builders offers the best blueprints for a new generation of architects!
(Melissa & Doug)
Characterized by Melissa & Doug’s child-friendly standards, the architectural units building block set is designed and sized for the smaller builder in mind. With 44 hand scrolled and smooth sanded blocks, little hands can quickly get a grip on the fundamentals of building. Featuring some of the distinct hallmark shapes of architecture (pillars, arches, peaked gables and more), there’s a sense of exploring the origins of classical building design along the way. The Architectural Units set pairs beautifully with other M & D building kits as kids may like to expand their projects into bigger and more complex designs.
Paige Smith is a freelance writer and syndicated columnist living in Alabama. More on GET THIS! at www.PageBookMedia.com.
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Pensacola Children’s Museum Launches Half-Price Sundays September 18 with Worldwide Day of Play The University of West Florida Historic Trust extends Half Price Sundays to its Pensacola Children’s Museum on Sunday, September 18, with an official Worldwide Day of Play event in partnership with Nickelodeon and Greater Pensacola Parents magazine from noon until 4 p.m. Worldwide Day of Play is a day each year during which Nickelodeon takes programming off the air and shuts down its website for three hours to encourage children to get up, get out and go play as well as supports community events that promote active play and healthy lifestyles. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the hands-on museum designed especially for children and participate in special activities including old-fashioned
board games the entire family can play together. Whether it’s performing a delicate operation or trying to balance a bunch of pirate penguins on a rocky ship, these games will allow parents to relive childhood family nights with their own children. Guests will also have the chance to meet staff of the UWF Historic Trust and Greater Pensacola Parents magazine. “We are pleased to celebrate the addition of our Pensacola Children’s Museum to our Half-Price Sundays, which began a year ago with the T. T. Wentworth, Jr. Museum,” said Robert J. Overton, executive director of the UWF Historic Trust. “Now, families can explore both museums on Sunday afternoon family outings.” Half-price Sunday tickets are valid for all Historic Pensacola properties and tours for
seven days and can be purchased at either museum. Tickets purchased at the T. T. Wentworth, Jr. Museum Thursday through Saturday between 4 and 7 p.m. are also half price. The Pensacola Children’s Museum is located at 115 E. Zaragoza Street in downtown Historic Pensacola. For more information, visit www.historicpensacola.org or contact Jeff Nall, UWF Historic Trust chief community officer at (850) 595-5985 ext. 110 or jnall@ uwf.edu.
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Need to run a few errands? Get out of the house for a while for some mental health time or exercise? Around the time your child reaches the preteen (tween) years, staying home alone may be an option. But, how do you know if your child is ready? The following points will help you determine if your child is equipped to do so:
Your tween indicates they want to stay home alone. Your child is seeking more independence and has asked you to leave him by himself. He is not anxious when you are gone and he can keep himself occupied safely.
Your tween follows your directions and rules. Your child has shown you that he can follow your expectations, even when you are not present. You’ve witnessed your child making good choices without your input. He adheres to the guidelines you have set in place about having a friend over, watching TV or a movie, playing video games, and time spent outdoors.
Your tween is reliable and selfsufficient. Daily chores are done with little to no reminders. Your child can safely prepare simple snacks when he is hungry. He knows how to properly use the microwave and toaster. You can rely on him to use only the appliances you’ve agreed to let him use.
Your tween uses the phone properly. Your child answers the phone appropriately. He recognizes why it is all right when you are away from the house to say you are unavailable, and how to take a message correctly. Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2016
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Your tween understands safety.
Additional questions parents should know the answers to before leaving their tweens at home alone:
Have a simple chart of first aid tips close to the emergency contacts and numbers. (In our home a bright binder labeled “EMERGENCY,” with our address and home phone number below, holds contacts, emergency numbers, and basic first-aid procedures. This binder remains by the kitchen phone and comes in handy for any babysitter we hire.) Begin slowly, leaving him alone for five to ten minutes the first few times and build from there. What else can you do to help your tween? Give him something to do to structure his time. This helps alone time pass quickly. Check in with your tween while you are gone. Call to see if he is comfortable or has any questions, and also to keep him updated on when you will arrive back home. This is an exciting time for your tween as he establishes more independence, with your confidence that he will do well. GPP
He is familiar with basic first-aid and knows what to do in case of a fire or other emergency. Is your neighborhood a safe one? Do you have neighbors He knows to call 911 that your child knows and trusts, people he can turn to if he and other emergency needs help? numbers if necessary. He knows what he can Does your child demonstrate good decision-making and and cannot do when judgment? Does you child understand basic safety proceyou are not at home. He dures? Will he make the decision of safety first? understands that knives cannot be used without Can your child tell time? Can he calmly provide your home your supervision. He phone number and address and give directions to your knows not to open the house in case of emergency? door while you are gone Does you child know your cell number? and which neighbors to call or go to if he needs Can your child lock and unlock your windows and doors? help. He knows the “safe” Does your child know the garage door code and/or alarm meeting spot, to find system code and password, if this applies? you or be found, in case anything should hapDoes you child stay calm when the unexpected happens? pen. He knows where the flashlights and extra Do you have more than one child you will leave home alone? batteries are. Can they resolve their conflicts without physical altercations Although your child and adult intervention? may know the emergency Judy M. Miller, a mother of four, is training her numbers, keep a list of tween son on how to be safely home alone. She When panic or worry sets in, the brain can emergency contacts and is a Certified Gottman Educator and the author of What flood and we struggle to remember what numbers in an easy to view place. Make To Expect From Your Adopted Tween and Writing to Heal we do know. sure all of your numbers are there as well. Adoption Grief: Making Connections & Moving Forward.
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FamilyCalendar This Month
Friday, September 2
Hill-Kelly Drive-In Movie Series Hunter Ampitheater at Community Maritime Park, 301 West Main Street, Pensacola. Parking begins at 6 p.m.; movie begins at 8. FREE, family-friendly movies in a park setting. Bring your coolers, blankets and chairs, but please no pets or glass. For more info, call (850) 436-5670 or visit www.PensacolaCommunityMaritimePark.com. September 2 movie is Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Pensacola Museum of Art Preschool Art & Storytime 10-11 a.m. first Fridays monthly. Introduce the littlest artists (3-5 years old) to the world of art through storybooks and fun art projects. Each month highlights a different book about an artist or art movement and is followed by a creative and exciting project in our classroom. $5/members and $8/non-members per class. Register at www.pensacolamuseum.org. The Pensacola Chapter of Powerful Women of the Gulf Coast Monthly Meeting Meets the 1st Friday of every month at the Gulf Coast Kid’s House from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Please join us for this time of non-traditional networking and education. The program includes education segments, presentations by local business women and is designed to provide women with the resources and connections they need to help them grow personally and professionally. Lunch provided. Visit www. powerfulwomengulfcoast.com. Rock-N-Reggae Music Festival Bamboo Willie’s, Pensacola Beach Boardwalk. Bamboo Willie’s Stage Friday: 9 p.m. Redfield; Boardwalk Ampitheater Friday: 7 p.m. Greg Lyons. For more info, visit http://pensacolabeachchamber.com/. “The Hiding Place” Rex Theatre, 18 N. Palafox Street, Pensacola. A musical theatre production depicting the life of Corrie ten Boom. Arrested by the Nazis along with the rest of her family for hiding Jews in their Haarlem home during the Holocaust, she was imprisoned and eventually sent to the Ravensbruck concentration camp along with her beloved sister, Betsie, who perished there just days before Corrie’s own release on December 31, 1944. For more info, call (850) 898-4004 or visit www.visitpensacola.com/event/the-hiding-place/1357/.
Saturday, September 3
Palafox Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Martin Luther King, Jr. Plaza. Fresh produce, live plants, baked goods, fine art, and antiques are just a few of the items offered by vendors at Palafox Market in Downtown Pensacola. Items originate directly from onsite vendors who grow, make, or create the fruits, vegetables, herbs, and art for sale. For more info, visit www.palafoxmarket.com. Saturday Studio Club at Pensacola Museum of Art 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Color, Value, Texture, Space, Shape, Line, and Form: The Seven Fundamental Elements of Art. Join us for one or all classes as we explore each element through discussion, practice, and fun art projects. This class is a great way for young artists to be introduced to the elements of art or to brush up on their skills. Ages 6-9: 11:30 a.m.1:30 p.m.; ages 10-13: 2-4 p.m. Cost: $10/members and $15/non-members per class. Register at www. pensacolamuseum.org. Santa Rosa Farmers Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 4587 Woodbine Road, Pace (in front of The Pace Presbyterian Church). Providing local goods, including produce, baked breads, canned preserves, cooked meats and even wood-fired pizza. Antique Appraisal Fair 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Garth’s Antiques and Auction Gallery,
Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2016
1401 East Gregory St. Tickets $5 per person. For more info, visit http://pensacolabeachchamber.com/. Debby’s Kitchen 10 a.m.-noon. Ever’man Educational Center, 315 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. This is a cooking class for the novice cook at any age! This class will be educational, fun and offer some basic knife and sauce skills to appeal to anyone. Bon Appetite! Price: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Call (850) 433-5353 ext. 10 or visit http://everman.org/. Pensacola Symphony Orchestra Fall Auditions University of West Florida Music Hall. Audition signups are on a first come, first serve basis. Strings will start signing up at 9:30 a.m. Winds, brass and percussion can start signing up at 11:30 a.m. Those auditioning must send a resume (1 page) to Personnel Manager Dale Riegle to receive the audition list and PDFs of the orchestral excerpts. Please contact Dale at trmpt8819@gmail.com with questions. Rock-N-Reggae Music Festival Bamboo Willie’s, Pensacola Beach Boardwalk. Bamboo Willie’s Stage Sat: Noon - Rhythm Intervention; 5 p.m. - Alexa & the Rippers; 10 p.m. - Raven Mad; Boardwalk Ampitheater Sat: 1 p.m. - The Rips; 7 p.m. - Tyler Denning Band. For more info, visit http://pensacolabeachchamber.com/.
donated to the Community Center After School Program and local animal shelters. For more info, call Cissi at (850) 393-4605.
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Worship on the Water 9 and 11 a.m. weekly church services held in the tent at the Flora-Bama. The service always draws a large and friendly crowd. Visit www.visitperdido.com/events/ worship-on-the-water. Rock-N-Reggae Music Festival Bamboo Willie’s, Pensacola Beach Boardwalk. Bamboo Willie’s Stage Sun: Noon - Nick & the Ovorols; 5 p.m. - Post Pluto; 10 p.m. -Sway Jah Vu.; Boardwalk Ampitheater Sun: 1 p.m. - David Dunn; 6 p.m. - Chronic Jester. For more info, visit http://pensacolabeachchamber.com/.
Saenger Theatre Presents The Sting 7 p.m. Tickets are $5 and can only be purchased at the Saenger Theatre Box Office. Box Office opens at 6 p.m. Saturday evening, but advance purchase is recommended. ALL SEATS GENERAL ADMISSION. Visit www.pensacolasaenger.com/ for details.
“The Hiding Place” Rex Theatre, 18 N. Palafox Street, Pensacola. A musical theatre production depicting the life of Corrie ten Boom. For more info, see September 2 listing.
Jacksonian Guard Colors Ceremony 6 p.m., Plaza Ferdinand, South Palafox St. Reenactment of Jacksonian-era soldiers, fifers, and drummers performing a colors ceremony in period 1821 uniforms, offering military salutes, manual of arms, fife and drum music and, the lowering of a replica 23-star flag that first flew over the Plaza. Call (850) 466-5220 or visit www.facebook.com/Jacksonian-Guard-Pensacola-Florida-960282107404423/.
Story Sprouts 10 a.m.-noon. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. Children ages 3-5 are invited to do arts & crafts, make a snack and have story time. The classes are creative and have an organic, environmental and local twist. Price: Complimentary. Call (850) 433-5353 ext. 10 or visit http://everman.org/.
2016 Gulf Coast Summer Fest 4 p.m. Pensacola Community Maritime Park, 301 West Main Street, Pensacola. Get your lawn chairs, coolers and umbrellas and come enjoy eight hours of nonstop jazz. Performing live: Gerald Albright, Steve Cole, Norman Brown, Kirk Whalum, Rick Braun, Pieces of a Dream, Brian Simpson, Alex Bugnon and Groove Symphony Jazz Band. Early admission: $65/ day of show: $75. Visit www.gulfcoastsummerfestjazzedition.com. Parents’ Night Out at Mojo Elite Gymnastics 6-10 p.m. 6890 W Fairfield Dr., Pensacola. Children 4 and under must have adult supervision. Parents can drop older children off for only $20 per child for supervised play. Admission covers pizza and drinks also. Parents are welcome to stay and play for free if they choose. Open to the public; no membership required. Call (850) 733-3547 or visit www.mojogymnastics.com. “The Hiding Place” Rex Theatre, 18 N. Palafox Street, Pensacola. A musical theatre production depicting the life of Corrie ten Boom. For more info, see September 2 listing.
Sunday, September 4
Blues Angel Music Blues on the Bay ConcertNot Quite Fab (Tribute to the Beatles) 6 p.m. at The Community Maritime Park. Pack your coolers and bring your lawn chairs. Concessions are available. Please do not bring pets or glass containers into the park. Concerts are free and open to the public. Visit http://www.pensacolacommunitymaritimepark.com. Trivia Trek 10 a.m.-3 p.m. every Sunday, at the Gulf Breeze Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. Bring your family, bring your pets! 1.5 mile walk with 12 trivia questions will be posted. Ballots are $2 each and all proceeds are
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Tuesday, September 6
Bands on the Beach Free concert series held each Tuesday night from 7-9 p.m. until October 25. Organized by the Santa Rosa Island Authority, this event is open to the public and located at the Gulfside Pavilion on Casino Beach. Bring your own lawn chairs and blankets; however, pets and glass are prohibited. September 6 band is The Blenders. For more info, call the SRIA at (850) 932-2257, visit www.visitpensacolabeach.com or tune to Cat Country 98.7 for the latest updates. Market in the Breeze 4-8 p.m. every Tuesday evening, Gulf Breeze Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. Come shop the huge selection of more than 50 area vendors, at fair market prices. Grab a bite to eat at one of the food trucks or other hot food vendors. Find local produce, milk, eggs, meat or baked goods. Shop local artists and crafters for the perfect gift. For info, www.marketinthebreeze.com. 123 Grow Series Workshop 5:30-7:30 p.m. 1901 North Pace Blvd., Pensacola. How to do business with the city, county & state workshop for free. Register at www.gcaacc.info or call (850) 438-3993. Auditions for 2016-17 Southeastern Teen Shakespeare Company Beginning at 6 p.m., students ages 13-19 are eligible to audition for the Company. A full explanation of company activities and expectations can be found online at www.setsco.org/company. Teens accepted into the company can look forward to performing at events like the Great Gulf Coast Arts Festival, the Mobile Renaissance Faire, and Winterfest. Auditions will include a physical and vocal warm up, improvisation, and a cold reading from a Shakespeare play. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and athletic or dance shoes. Auditions will be held in the Old Sacred Heart Hospital building, 1010 N. 12th Avenue, Suite 211. Visit www.setsco.org/ for details.
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FamilyCalendar Funky Flow Yoga 6-7 p.m. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. Free. Funky Flow is a creative hour with fun postures and music, combining yin and yang postures. Please wear comfortable clothing, all you need is yourself, a mat if you have one and an open mind. Call (850) 433-5353 ext. 10 or visit http://everman.org/.
Wednesday, September 7
Blue Angels Practice National Naval Aviation Museum - viewing area, 1750 Radford Blvd., Pensacola. Open bleacher seating is available for seating 1,000 people. Chair service is provided at each practice session, a limited quantity of chairs are available for a fee of $3 per chair good for that dayÕs practice session. Concessions (bottled water, sport drinks, light food and treats) and merchandise are also available. 100% ID check for all visitors 18 years old and over to access the museum flight line to view Blue Angel practice. Call (850) 452-3604 or visit www.navalaviationmuseum.org/.
Sponsorship packages are available. For more info, contact Jill at (850) 393-8150 or jill@innisfreehotels. com. Bulls on the Beach 8 p.m. Flora-Bama, 17401 Perdido Key Drive, Pensacola. TWO nights of adrenaline-filled bull riding! Friday & Saturday night’s high-energy, rock-and-roll rodeo will feature professional bull riders from across the Southeast. This is a family-friendly event; snow cones and other snacks will be available for purchase. Ride the mechanical bull if you dare! $5 /ride under the tent. Gates open at 6 p.m. Admission is $25 for adults 18 and older; $15 for kids 7-17 years; and free for kids 6 years and under! ENJOY BOTH NIGHTS: $40 adults; $20 kids. For more info, visit www. pensacolachamber.com or call (850) 492-0611.
Saturday, September 10
Star Gazing 7 p.m. The Escambia Amateur Astronomers’ Association will offer FREE star gazing at the Gulfside Pavilion. For more info, see September 9 listing.
Auditions for 2016-17 Southeastern Teen Shakespeare Company Students ages 13-19 are eligible to audition for the Company. For more info, see September 6 listing.
Thursday, September 8
Montessori School of Pensacola Hosts Author/ Parenting Columnist John Rosemond Lecture 7 p.m. Public lecture at the Museum of Commerce in downtown Pensacola. Rosemond is a family psychologist and author of more than a dozen books on parenting. The event will begin with a reception from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., followed by the lecture at 7. Admission will be $20 at the door. Those who register before Aug. 26 will receive a $5 discount. To RSVP for the lecture, visit http://bit.ly/2aTnT6G. For more info about the event, call (850) 469-8138 or visit montessoripensacola.com.
Friday, September 9
Montessori School of Pensacola Hosts Author/ Parenting Columnist John Rosemond Workshop 1:30-5:30 p.m. at the Montessori School of Pensacola’s main campus, located at 4100 Montessori Dr. Rosemond is a family psychologist and author of more than a dozen books on parenting. Cost for the workshop is $50. To RSVP, visit http://bit.ly/2bhqKaw. For more info about the event, call (850) 469-8138 or visit montessoripensacola.com. Grandma Jenkins Storytime at Pensacola Children’s Museum 11 a.m. Story is The Little Mermaid. Pensacola Children’s Museum, 115 E. Zaragoza St. Tickets may be purchased at the Tivoli High House, Wentworth Museum, Pensacola Children’s Museum, or at Voices of Pensacola. $8 for adults and $4 for children ages 3-14. Tickets are good for seven days from presentation at one of our four museum desks. Visit www. historicpensacola.org/ for more info. Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Time Stands Still 7:30 p.m. Meet Sarah and James, a photojournalist and foreign correspondent trying to find happiness in a world that seems to have gone crazy. Theirs is a partnership based on telling the toughest stories, and together, making a difference. But when their own story takes a sudden turn, the adventurous couple confronts the prospect of a more conventional life. Visit www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/ for details. Dixon Dub 6 p.m. in the brand-new ballroom of the Hilton Pensacola Beach. This event will feature teams competing in a lip sync battle to raise funds for Dixon School of the Arts, music, laughter, food and fun in celebration of the arts and in support of a school that uses them to inspire and empower young scholars.
Bulls on the Beach 8 p.m. Flora-Bama, 17401 Perdido Key Drive, Pensacola. TWO nights of adrenaline-filled bull riding! For more info, see September 9 listing. University of West Florida Football Inaugural Home Game 6 p.m. Blue Wahoos Stadium @Community Maritime Park. The UWF Argonuats versus University of Missouri S&T Miners. Visit www.goargos.com for ticket and game information. Monthly Bay Bluffs Park Cleanup 9-10 a.m. Bay Bluffs Preserve. Come join the Scenic Highway Foundation, Ocean Hour FL, Earth Ethics, and the City of Pensacola on second Saturdays for the Monthly Clean Up of Bay Bluffs Park, 3400 Scenic Hwy, at the corner of Summit Blvd. Second location is 2 miles north at Chimney Park at Scenic Highway and Langley Ave. Sign-in is at 8:45. Don’t forget to bring water and sunscreen! Contact oceanhourfl@gmail. com, BayBluffsCleanUp@gmail.com, or (850) 207-9326 (leave a message). Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Time Stands Still 7:30 p.m. See September 9 listing for details. Palafox Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Martin Luther King, Jr. Plaza. See September 3 for details. Santa Rosa Farmers Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 4587 Woodbine Road, Pace (in front of The Pace Presbyterian Church). For more info, see September 3 listing. Saenger Theatre Presents Citizen Kane 7 p.m. Tickets are $5 and can only be purchased at the Saenger Theatre Box Office. Box Office opens at 6 p.m. Saturday evening, but advance purchase is recommended. ALL SEATS GENERAL ADMISSION. Visit www.pensacolasaenger.com/ for details. Pensacola Dragon Boat Festival Bayou Texar/Bayview Park, E. Lloyd St., Pensacola. Led by the rhythmic beat of a drum, teams of 20 synchronized paddlers, one drummer and one steersperson race 300 meters up the river in 40-foot
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canoes rigged with decorative Chinese dragon heads and tails. Each race will be about 12 minutes apart with a break for lunch. Call (850) 723-0800 or visit http:// pensacoladragonboatfestival.com/. Miracle Strip Corvette Club’s 14th Annual “Vettes at the Beach” Show Join Corvette lovers for a weekend of fun and sun on Pensacola Beach. Registration will be from 8 to 10 a.m. The free event draws hundreds of Corvette owners and enthusiasts from all over the country to the Casino Beach parking lot to check out more than 200 of Chevrolet’s famous sports cars, spanning seven generations from the early 1950s to today. Trophies will be awarded for best in show, sponsor’s choice, club participation, farthest distance driven and top 30 cars. The event will also feature trophies and door prizes. Individuals interested in registering a vehicle can register for $45. For more info, visit www.miraclestripcorvette. com or call (850) 375-6993. Subway Pensacola Cycling Classic Welcomes Top Cyclists From Southeast Regional pros, top amateur cyclists and hand-cyclists will race in a three-stage event for more than $16,000 in prize money. Registration for this event can be found at www.usacycling.org. A free Kids Fun Race (10 and under) will also take place at the Criterium Sunday morning in downtown Pensacola. Each child participating will receive a raffle ticket for the chance to win a new bike. Bike and helmet are required to participate. The distance will be one lap, or approximately .75-mile. Gold, Silver and Bronze medals will be awarded to the top three finishers. Admission for spectators is free. For more info,visit www. pensacolacyclingclassic.com or call (360) 921-7018. Captains for Kids Offers Special Needs Fun Captains for Kids offers a free fun day on the water for kids with special needs and illnesses by providing: fishing charters, sailing excursions, parasailing rides, dolphin cruises and water banana rides. Most events have space for the parents and sometimes a sibling or two to tag along. All activities are free of charge. Captains for Kids offers these activities at Perdido Key and Pensacola Beach. Each event has a maximum seating capacity so pre-registration is required for each person in order to give you a smooth experience and to provide a passenger manifest to the captain. For information, to register or to get involved call 850-4385555, visit our website, www.captainsforkids.com or find us on Facebook! Larry Caton Memorial Tennis Tournament All Day, Roger Scott Tennis Center, 2130 Summit Blvd Bldg 3, Pensacola. Proceeds benefit TENNIS-4EVERYONE, a non-profit organization that conducts tennis training and academic tutoring programs for less fortunate kids in and around Pensacola. Sign up online at www.rogerscotttennis.com or at the desk. For more info, call (850) 912-4103. 33rd Annual Semper Fi 5K Charity Run/Walk 8 a.m. The race will begin in front of Seville Square, wind through the streets of downtown, ending at Seville Square. All proceeds go directly to local outreach programs. Registration fee through September 7: $30; Sept. 8-Sept 10: $35 late registration; and active duty with ID: $20 and must present ID at packet pickup. For more info, visit www.semperficharityrun.org/ or call (850) 435-9222. Parents’ Night Out at Mojo Elite Gymnastics 6-10 p.m. 6890 W Fairfield Dr., Pensacola. For more info, see September 3 listing.
Sunday, September 11
Subway Pensacola Cycling Classic Welcomes Top Cyclists From Southeast Regional pros, top amateur cyclists and handcyclists will race in a three-stage event for more than $16,000 in prize money. For more info, see September 10 listing.
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FamilyCalendar Trivia Trek 10 a.m.-3 p.m. every Sunday, at the Gulf Breeze Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. For more info, see September 4. Worship on the Water 9 and 11 a.m. weekly church services held in the tent at the Flora-Bama. For more info, see September 4 listing.
Monday, September 12
Cat’s Cooking: Seed to Table 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. Join our gardener Cat for a cooking class featuring fresh harvest from our community garden. Price: complimentary (you will just eat a sample, not a full meal). Call (850) 4335353 ext. 10 or visit http://everman.org/. Yoga at the Pensacola Museum of Art 5:30-6:30 p.m. Art and yoga have complimentary and intrinsically valuable benefits and the gallery provides the perfect space to awaken your imagination. Join us for a 60-minute session led by instructor Nancy LaNasa. All levels welcome. What to Bring: towel, mat, water bottle. Free for PMA members; non-Members are free with cost of general admission. Visit www.pensacolamuseum. org/ for more info.
Tuesday, September 13
Bands on the Beach Mass Kunfuzion will perform. For more info, see September 6 listing. Market in the Breeze 4-8 p.m., Gulf Breeze Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. For more info, see September 6 listing. Story Sprouts 10 a.m.-noon. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. For more info, see September 6 listing. Funky Flow Yoga 6-7 p.m. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. For more info, see September 6 listing. WSRE Public Square Speakers Series 7 p.m. Pensacola State College, Jean and Paul Amos Performance Studio, 1000 College Blvd. Lecture by Sonia Manzano, who joined the cast of “Sesame Street” in 1971, where 44 years as Maria afforded her a unique look at how children’s television has evolved. The event is free and open to the public. Tickets are not required, but reservations are encouraged. To make reservations, visit wsre.org/ speakers. For more info, please call (850) 484-1200. Blue Angels Practice National Naval Aviation Museum - viewing area, 1750 Radford Blvd., Pensacola. For more info, see September 7 listing.
Thursday, September 15
Gulf Breeze Area Chamber Ribbon Cutting at URU Yoga Gulf Breeze, LLC 4-6 p.m. URU Yoga Gulf Breeze, LLC (located in Harbourtown), 913 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Suite #26, Gulf Breeze. The ribbon cutting will help celebrate an anniversary and expansion. There will be a drawing for a class pass and T-shirt, silent auction, free yoga class, and more! URU Yoga & Beyond has formed a team for the Pensacola Habitat for Humanity and this event will be a fundraiser as well. For more info, contact Kerry or Rebecca at (850) 712-8893 or at kwhiteley78@ gmail.com. Also visit http://uruyoga.com.
Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2016
Friday, September 16
Kids’ Night Out at Roger Scott Tennis 6-9 p.m. 2130 Summit Blvd, Pensacola. Come drop your kids off (ages 6-14) for an evening with tennis, food and fun! RSVP’s highly encouraged, but dropins always welcome! Same nights as Gallery Nights downtown throughout the year! (No November, December or January) Cost: $20/child. Call (517) 672-6069 or visit rogerscottdennis.com. Gallery Night 5-9 p.m. Stroll through the charming brick walkways of downtown Pensacola to experience an eclectic array of local music, art and cuisine. Gallery Night is a free event and many businesses provide light refreshments. Visit downtownpensacola.com/ or call (850) 434-5371. The Gulf Breeze Chapter of Powerful Women of the Gulf Coast Monthly Meeting Meets the 3rd Friday of every month at the Hampton Inn & Suites from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Please join us for this time of non-traditional networking and education. The program includes education segments, presentations by local business women and is designed to provide women with the resources and connections they need to help them grow personally and professionally. Lunch provided. Visit www.powerfulwomengulfcoast.com. Star Gazing 7:30 p.m. The Escambia Amateur Astronomers’ Association will offer FREE star gazing at the Gulfside Pavilion. For more info, see September 9 listing.
Saturday, September 17
STEM Saturday: Choppers, Harriers and Other VTOL Aircraft 9 a.m.-1 p.m. National Flight Academy. K-6th grade students will get to experience hands-on activities to learn about the physics and forces behind the VTOL aircraft (Vertical Take-Off and Landing)! Students will then apply the skills they have learned to fly VTOL drones and create their own paper helicopters. Additionally, students will fly the X-12B Triad in NFA’s simulators.. Call (850) 458-7836 or visit www.nationalflightacademy.com.
American Heart Association Northwest Florida Heart Walk Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. Community Maritime Park, Pensacola. No fees, but walkers are eligible for a Heart Walk t-shirt once they have raised a minimum of $100. For more info, contact Jennifer at gsanwfl@heart. org or call (800) 257-6941 x6085.
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Guns vs. Hoses Charity Softball Match 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Blue Wahoos Stadium. This charity softball tournament is organized by the Pensacola Police Department and Escambia County Sherriff’s Department to raise money for the Krewe du YaYa’s Keeping Abreast Foundation.
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Project Greenshores 9- 10 a.m. Wayside Park East. Come join Ocean Hour for clean up the third Saturday of every month. Project Greenshores is at the Three Mile Bridge and Bayfront Parkway. Buckets, grabbers, gloves and trash bags will be supplied. Dress for the weather and bring water and sunscreen as needed. Contact oceanhourfl@gmail.com, or call (850) 450-1112 and leave a message. Hall of Celebrities at Pensacola Children’s Museum 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Come dance, sing and listen to a story during our monthly Hall of Celebrities free program. September’s celebrity is Johnny Appleseed. Pensacola Children’s Museum, 115 E. Zaragoza St. Tickets may be purchased at the Tivoli High House, Wentworth Museum, Pensacola Children’s Museum, or at Voices of Pensacola. $8 for adults and $4 for children ages 3-14. Tickets are good for seven days from presentation at one of our four museum desks. Visit www. historicpensacola.org/ for more info. 5210 Northwest Florida Day of Play 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Community Maritime Park. A day to get up, get out and get active! Join us for a day of exciting activities, games, sports, contests and physical challenges for the whole family! Call (850) 436-5670 or visit www.5210nwfl.com/. This year the event will be held in conjunction with JAKES and Touch-A-Truck so plan to have fun for hours! The event is free and there will be food available for purchase.
Star Gazing 7:30 p.m. The Escambia Amateur Astronomers’ Association will offer FREE star gazing at the Gulfside Pavilion. For more info, see September 9 listing. Jacksonian Guard Colors Ceremony 6 p.m., Plaza Ferdinand, South Palafox St. For more info, see September 3 listing. Santa Rosa Farmers Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 4587 Woodbine Road, Pace (in front of The Pace Presbyterian Church). For more info, see September 3 listing. Palafox Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Martin Luther King, Jr. Plaza. For more info, see September 3 listing. Parents’ Night Out at Mojo Elite Gymnastics 6-10 p.m. 6890 W Fairfield Dr., Pensacola. For more info, see September 3 listing.
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Saenger Theatre Presents Gone with the Wind 7 p.m. Tickets are $5 and can only be purchased at the Saenger Theatre Box Office. Box Office opens at 6 p.m. Saturday evening, but advance purchase is recommended. ALL SEATS GENERAL ADMISSION. Visit www. pensacolasaenger.com/ for details. Saturday Studio Club at Pensacola Museum of Art 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Color, Value, Texture, Space, Shape, Line, and Form: The Seven Fundamental Elements of Art. For more info, see September 3 listing.
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JAKES Event 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Community Maritime Park. Short for “Juniors Acquiring Knowledge of Ethics and Sportsmanship,” this fun event educates youth in wildlife conservation and wise stewardship of natural resources with a chance to try archery, target shooting and fishing techniques. Children and youth will participate in ageappropriate activities such as archery, BB gun shooting, firearm safety, and taxidermy displays. Free and held in conjunction with Northwest Florida Day of Play and Touch-a-Truck. Touch-a-Truck 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Community Maritime Park. Kids can get a chance to be “behind the wheel” and rub elbows with their hometown heroes. They can climb on and explore some of their favorite vehicles including fire engines, police cars, construction trucks and more. This event is free and will be held in conjunction with Northwest Florida Day of Play and JAKES. For more info, visit www. facebook.com/events/167011593679281/.
Sunday, September 18
Trivia Trek 10 a.m.-3 p.m. every Sunday, at the Gulf Breeze
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FamilyCalendar Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. For more info, see September 4. Worship on the Water 9 and 11 a.m. weekly church services held in the tent at the Flora-Bama. For more info, see September 4 listing. Half-Price Sundays Launch at Pensacola Children’s Museum Noon-4 p.m.This event will take place in conjunction with an official Worldwide Day of Play event in partnership with Nickelodeon and Greater Pensacola Parents magazine. Worldwide Day of Play is a day each year during which Nickelodeon takes programming off the air and shuts down its website for three hours to encourage children to get up, get out and go play as well as supports community events that promote active play and healthy lifestyles. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the hands-on museum designed especially for children and participate in special activities including old-fashioned board games the entire family can play together. p.m. are also half price. For more info, visit www.historicpensacola. org or call (850) 595-5985 ext. 110 or e-mail jnall@ uwf.edu.
ing their distinctive style of music across the nation and around the world. A captivating blend of folk and classical, the Annie Moses Band is a talented ensemble of songwriters, singers, and musicians, combining technical skill with exhilarating showmanship. Tickets begin at $25and can be purchased at the Saenger Theatre Box Office or through Ticketmaster. Visit www.pensacolasaenger.com/ for details.
Friday, September 23
Taste of the Beach! Pensacola Beach Hilton, Gulfside Pavilion at Casino Beach. On Friday night from 6-9 p.m., enjoy a VIP five-course “Chef Celebration” meal prepared by four of Pensacola Beach’s finest chefs. Tickets $65 per person, cash bar. Visit TasteofPensacolaBeach.com for details.
Tuesday, September 20
Story Sprouts 10 a.m.-noon. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. For more info, see September 6 listing. Funky Flow Yoga 6-7 p.m. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. For more info, see September 6 listing. Bands on the Beach Category 4 will perform. For more info, see September 6 listing. Market in the Breeze 4-8 p.m., Gulf Breeze Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. For more info, see September 6 listing. Blue Angels Practice National Naval Aviation Museum - viewing area, 1750 Radford Blvd., Pensacola. For more info, see September 7 listing. Widespread Panic Performs Live at Saenger Theatre 8 p.m. Tickets are $60 and can be purchased at the Saenger Theatre Box Office or through Ticketmaster. Visit www.pensacolasaenger.com/ for details.
Wednesday, September 21
Widespread Panic Performs Live at Saenger Theatre 8 p.m. For more info, see September 20 listing.
Thursday, September 22
Annie Moses Band Performs Live at Saenger Theatre 7:30 p.m. The Annie Moses Band has been inspiring and entertaining audiences for over a decade, bring-
Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Dearly Departed 7:30 p.m. See September 23 listing for details. Santa Rosa Farmers Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 4587 Woodbine Road, Pace (in front of The Pace Presbyterian Church). For more info, see September 3 listing. Parents’ Night Out at Mojo Elite Gymnastics 6-10 p.m. 6890 W Fairfield Dr., Pensacola. For more info, see September 3 listing. Jacksonian Guard Colors Ceremony 6 p.m., Plaza Ferdinand, South Palafox St. For more info, see September 3 listing. Pensacola Gymnastics Classic Pensacola State College, Lou Ross Center/ Bldg 3, 1000 College Blvd. Girls’ Artistic Gymnastics Competition open to the public. Admission $10/adults and $5/ child (Ages 4-15); free ages 3 and under. For more info, visit www.pensacolagymnastics.com or call (850) 484-1319.
Monday, September 19
Pilates at the Pensacola Museum of Art 5:30-6:30 p.m. Participants will gain body awareness while strengthening the core and improving flexibility. All levels are welcome to attend. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothes suitable for exercise. Instructor will be Francesca Mallow. What to Bring: mat, water bottle. Free for PMA members; non-Members are free with cost of general admission. Visit www.pensacolamuseum.org/ for more info.
Palafox Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Martin Luther King, Jr. Plaza. For more info, see September 3 listing.
Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Dearly Departed 7:30 p.m. Living and dying in the South are seldom tidy and always hilarious. Despite their earnest efforts to pull themselves together for their father’s funeral, the Turpin family’s other problems keep overshadowing the solemn occasion: Ray-Bud drinks himself silly as the funeral bills mount; Junior is juggling financial ruin, a pack of no-neck monster kids, and a wife who suspects him of infidelity in the family car; their sister, Delightful, copes with death as she does life, by devouring junk food; and all the neighbors add more than two cents. Visit www. pensacolalittletheatre.com/ for details. The Classic Rock Experience - 70s Arena Rock Tribute 7:30 p.m., Saenger Theatre. The Classic Rock Experience is a celebration of Epic 70s Arena Rock featuring classic rock anthems from Led Zepplin, Styx, Journey, Pink Floyd, Boston and more...An authentic 70s rock concert recreation by the guys who were playing this music in the 70s. They are playing the music on the same gear as in the 70s for the most accurate sound possible. Tickets begin at $20 and can be purchased at the Saenger Theatre Box Office or through Ticketmaster. Visit www. pensacolasaenger.com/ for details. Grandma Jenkins Storytime at Pensacola Children’s Museum 11 a.m. Story is But No Elephants. For more info, see September 9 listing.
Saturday, September 24
Taste of the Beach! Casino Beach, Pensacola Beach. Saturday’s festival, 11 a.m.-10 p.m., is fun for the whole family with signature dishes priced at $5 or less. With a special cooking demonstration presented by Pensacola celebrity chefs, cook-off, chef sampling, beer tasting, and live entertainment featuring the The Molly Ringwalds! Entry is free. Visit TasteofPensacolaBeach.com for details.
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Autism Pensacola Holds Fifth Steps for Autism Walk 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Blue Wahoos Stadium. Funds raised by this event will support the mission and programs of Autism Pensacola, including safety, quality of life, and awareness initiatives in both Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. For more info or to participate in the walk, call (850) 434-7171, e-mail walk@autismpensacola. org or visit www.firstgiving.com/17253/steps-forautism-2016. Pensacola Seafood Don McCloskey 5K Run/Walk 7:30 a.m. Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. A favorite of local runners, this 5K runs through historic downtown Pensacola and is sponsored by the Pensacola Runners Association and Fiesta of Five Flags. Visit www.FiestaofFiveFlags.org for details and registration info.
Sunday, September 25
Worship on the Water 9 and 11 a.m. weekly church services held in the tent at the Flora-Bama. For more info, see September 4 listing. Trivia Trek 10 a.m.-3 p.m. every Sunday, at the Gulf Breeze Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. For more info, see September 4 listing. Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Dearly Departed 3 p.m. See September 23 listing for details. Soap Making 101 2-4 p.m. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. We will discuss various soap making procedures and actually make simple “lard” soap during the class. Everyone will take home fresh soap to cure & cut when the process is complete. Price: Complimentary. Call (850) 433-5353 ext. 10 or visit http://everman.org/. Pensacola Gymnastics Classic Pensacola State College, Lou Ross Center/ Bldg 3, 1000 College Blvd. For more info, see September 24 listing.
Monday, September 26
3rd Annual Let Your Light Shine for Children in Crisis 6-8:30 p.m. Museum of Commerce, 201 East Zara-
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FamilyCalendar goza Street, Pensacola. Cost is $50 per person or $320 per table for 8. Sponsorships and in-kind contributions available. For more info/reservations, visit childrenincrisisfl.org or by calling (850) 864-4242. Garrison Keillor Performs Live at Saenger Theatre 7 p.m. One of the most prolific American storytellers of all time, Garrison Keillor is a writer and humorist best known for his popular live radio variety show, A Prairie Home Companion, which attracts more than 4 million listeners on more than 600 public radio stations each week.Tickets begin at $51 and can be purchased at the Saenger Theatre Box Office or through Ticketmaster. Visit www.pensacolasaenger. com/ for details.
Tuesday, September 27
Story Sprouts 10 a.m.-noon. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. For more info, see September 6 listing. Free Tuesday at the Pensacola Museum of Art 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Enjoy free admission to the Pensacola Museum of Art the last Tuesday of each month. For more info, visit www.pensacolamuseum.org/. Funky Flow Yoga 6-7 p.m. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. For more info, see September 6 listing. Bands on the Beach Ben Loftin Band will perform. For more info, see September 6 listing. Market in the Breeze 4-8 p.m., Gulf Breeze Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. For more info, see September 6 listing.
Thursday, September 29
Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Dearly Departed 7:30 p.m. See September 23 listing for details.
Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival Various stages including Bamboo Willie’s, Casino Beach Bar & Grill, The Islander Bar and the Sandbar. This festival will introduce music lovers to the songs that touch your daily lives. For more info about artists, locations and schedule, visit www. pensacolabeachsongfest.com or call (850) 341-0889. “Heroes Among Us” Veteran Speaker Series 6 p.m. Veterans Memorial Park and Wall South, Downtown Pensacola. Medal of Honor-Huey Gunship/RVN Night.
Friday, September 30
Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Dearly Departed 7:30 p.m. See September 23 listing for details. Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival On Friday, we will host a children’s workshop at The Tree House Cinema in Gulf Breeze. This program will include middle school students from Santa Rosa County whose interest is in creative writing or music. Children will be encouraged to participate in the process of creating their own songs as well as taking the stage to perform their creations. For more info and schedule, visit www.pensacolabeachsongfest. com.
Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2016
Pensacola Seafood Festival Seville Square, Downtown Pensacola. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Sample a variety of seafood dishes and enjoy continuous entertainment in Fountain Park. Arts and crafts vendors will display their wares, and a children’s area is filled with activities for all ages. The Fiesta Seafood Grille offers cooking demonstrations where you can watch area chefs prepare regional delicacies. Visit www.fiestaoffiveflags.org or call (850) 433-6512 for details. Star Gazing 7 p.m., Fort Pickens, Pensacola Beach. For more info, see September 2 listing.
Saturday, October 1
Opening Night of the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra 7:30 p.m. Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox Place. Featurng Peter Rubardt, conductor; and Bella Hristova, violin. For more info, visit www.pensacolasymphony. com/. Saturday Studio Club at Pensacola Museum of Art 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Color, Value, Texture, Space, Shape, Line, and Form: The Seven Fundamental Elements of Art. For more info, see September 3 listing. 7th Annual Bras Across the Bridge Presented by Baptist Health Care Foundation and Pensacola Honda. Breast cancer survivors, their loved ones and the community are invited to join together to increase breast cancer awareness. From 8 to 9 a.m., register at The Grand Marlin. Bras Across the Bridge event begins at 9 a.m. The crowd will make its way across the bridge with bras strung together as a show of awareness and support for the fight against breast cancer. The Grand Marlin after-party will be held from 9:30 a.m.-noon including live music and a silent auction. The bras will be donated to local organizations that help women and girls in need. For more info and/or sponsorships, call (850) 469-7419. 2016 Walk to End Alzheimer’s Bayview Park 2001 E. Lloyd St. Pensacola. Registration will begin at 8 a.m. A ceremony honoring those who have suffered from Alzheimer’s, as well as their caregivers, will be held at 9 a.m. The walk starts at 9:30 a.m. The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. It is free to walk in the event, but we encourage participants to raise funds to help END Alzheimer’s. All funds raised go to the Alzheimer’s Association. For more info, visit http://act.alz.org/site/TR/Walk2016/ALAlabamaFloridaPanhandle?fr_id=8808&pg=entry.
Parents’ Night Out at Mojo Elite Gymnastics 6-10 p.m. 6890 W Fairfield Dr., Pensacola. For more info, see September 3 listing.
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Santa Rosa Island Triathlon The Annual Santa Rosa Island Triathlon will be held on Pensacola Beach. A sold-out field of 1,250 athletes is expected to compete in this nationally renowned sprint triathlon event. The race distances are a 600yard swim, an 18-mile bike and a 3.1-mile run. For more info, call (850) 380-0741.
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4th Annual Shindig on the Sand Flora-Bama Lounge, Package and Oyster Bar 17350 Perdido Key Dr, Pensacola. Featuring 70 musical acts and more than 200 musicians. For more info, call (850) 492-0611 or visit www.florabama.com/.
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27th Annual Peanut Festival Gabbert Farm, 1401 East Gregory St., Pensacola. Peanuts; live entertainment, arts, crafts, antiques, pony rides, games, hay rides; train rides; bungee jump; rock climbing; and much more. Large display of antique tractors & farm related equipment will be on display. Gabbert Farm is 4.5 miles south of Jay, off Highway 89. For more info, call (850) 675-6823.
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Disney Live! Mickey And Minnie’s Doorway To Magic Noon and 7 p.m. shows, Pensacola Bay Center. Join Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and the comical duo of Donald and Goofy as 25 of your favorite characters surprise and captivate at every turn of the knob! See the Fairy Godmother transform Cinderella’s rags into a beautiful ball gown in a split second; the Toy Story gang defy the dimensions of Andy’s toy box with the help of the green army men; and the spectacular stage debut of Rapunzel and Flynn Rider as they rise into the sky amidst the floating lanterns. With special appearances by Snow White, Tinker Bell and Aladdin’s Genie, you never know what to expect or who might join in the fun. For tickets, visit Pensacola Bay Center Box Office, Ticketmaster.com, or call (800) 745-3000. PARKING: $10 - cash only, day of show. For more info, visit www.pensacolabaycenter.com/.
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Trivia Trek 10 a.m.-3 p.m. every Sunday, at the Gulf Breeze Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. For more info, see September 4 listing.
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Palafox Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Martin Luther King, Jr. Plaza. See September 3 for details.
Worship on the Water 9 and 11 a.m. weekly church services held in the tent at the Flora-Bama. For more info, see September 4 listing.
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Santa Rosa Farmers Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 4587 Woodbine Road, Pace (in front of The Pace Presbyterian Church). For more info, see September 3 listing.
Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Dearly Departed 3 p.m. See September 23 listing for details.
Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Dearly Departed 7:30 p.m. See September 23 listing for details.
Pensacola Seafood Festival Seville Square, Downtown Pensacola. See September 30 listing for more info.
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Jacksonian Guard Colors Ceremony 6 p.m., Plaza Ferdinand, South Palafox St. For more info, see September 3 listing.
Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival For more info, see September 29 listing.
Pensacola Seafood Festival Seville Square, Downtown Pensacola. See September 30 listing for more info. Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival For more info, see September 29 listing.
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Sunday, October 2
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FamilyCalendar 27th Annual Peanut Festival Gabbert Farm, 1401 East Gregory St., Pensacola. For more info, see October 1 listing.
Monday, October 3
Yoga at the Pensacola Museum of Art 5:30-6:30 p.m. Art and yoga have complimentary and intrinsically valuable benefits and the gallery provides the perfect space to awaken your imagination. For more info, see September 12 listing.
Tuesday, October 4
Bands on the Beach Dr. Breeze will perform. For more info, see September 6 listing. Market in the Breeze 4-8 p.m., Gulf Breeze Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. For more info, see September 6 listing. Russian Grand Ballet Presents: Swan Lake 7:30 p.m. Saenger Theatre. Based on Russian folklore and German legend, “Swan Lake” follows a heroic young prince as he works to free the beautiful swan maiden from an evil spell. The ballet is in three acts with two intermissions, with music by Tchaikovsky, choreography by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov, and libretto by Vladimir Begichev and Vasily Getzer. Tickets begin at $28 and can be purchased at the Saenger Theatre Box Office or through Ticketmaster. Visit www.pensacolasaenger. com/ for details.
Friday, October 7
2016 Gulf Breeze Community Expo & Taste of Gulf Breeze Gulf Breeze Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. Friday from 5-8:30 p.m. features the Taste of Gulf Breeze, a 21 and up only venue, and Saturday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. is a family day featuring children’s activities. The public is invited to attend. $5 admission for Taste of Gulf Breeze Friday night; FREE admission Saturday. To register or for more info, e-mail ceo@ gulfbreezechamber.com or call (850) 932-7888. 34th Annual St. Rose of Lima International Fall Festival St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 1401 East Gregory St., Pensacola. International food - Polish, Filipino, Italian, American, Cajun, plus BBQ, Cajun, fish and more! 5K run/walk, live entertainment all weekend featuring Chloe Channell! Also raffle, games, vendors, car & Indian motorcycle exhibit, arts & crafts! Fun for the whole family! Call (850) 602-7495 or find us on Facebook. Greek Festival 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 1401 East Gregory St., Pensacola. Savory cuisine, soulful music, lively dancing, and educational tours transform the church grounds into a three day celebration. Admission is free. Call (850) 433-2662 or visit www.pensacolagreekfestival.com/. Pensacola Museum of Art Preschool Art & Storytime 10-11 a.m. first Fridays monthly. For more info, see September 2 listing. Star Gazing 6:30 p.m. The Escambia Amateur Astronomers’ Association will offer FREE star gazing at the Gulfside Pavilion. For more info, see September 9 listing.
Saturday, October 8
Parents’ Night Out at Mojo Elite Gymnastics 6-10 p.m. 6890 W Fairfield Dr., Pensacola. For more info, see September 3 listing.
34th Annual St. Rose of Lima International Fall Festival St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 1401 East Gregory St., Pensacola. For more info, see October 7 listing. Greek Festival 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 1401 East Gregory St., Pensacola. For more info, see October 7 listing. Star Gazing 6:30 p.m. The Escambia Amateur Astronomers’ Association will offer FREE star gazing at the Gulfside Pavilion. For more info, see September 9 listing. Palafox Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Martin Luther King, Jr. Plaza. For more info, see September 3 listing. Monthly Bay Bluffs Park Cleanup 9-10 a.m. Bay Bluffs Preserve. For more info, see September 10 listing. George Thorogood & The Destroyers Perform Live at Saenger Theatre 7:30 p.m. Tickets begin at $36 and can be purchased at the Saenger Theatre Box Office or through Ticketmaster. Visit www.pensacolasaenger.com/ for details. Sea No Limits Fishing Clinic 8 a.m.-noon. Community Maritime Park. Free, registration required. Free fishing clinic for children and adults with physical or intellectual disabilities requiring supervised care. Strictly limited to the first 250 applicants (plus up to two additional family members/guardians/caretakers). Pre-registration for the Fishing Clinic is required but not the optional child ID program. This FREE event includes: fishing rod & reel, grilled lunch w/ beverages, T-shirt, child ID program (optional), fish identification booklets, fishing instruction and bait. For more info, visit www. lodge347.net/.
Sunday, October 9
34th Annual St. Rose of Lima International Fall Festival St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 1401 East Gregory St., Pensacola. For more info, see October 7 listing. Greek Festival Noon-6 p.m. Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 1401 East Gregory St., Pensacola. For more info, see October 7 listing.
Classes
Community Education
Babysitter Class This class is open to youth from ages 11-15 for $30 (lunch is not provided). All participants receive an American Heart Association Family & Friends CPR Card, plus a Sacred Heart Hospital Babysitting Certificate. Classes are held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Greenhut Auditorium at Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola. Pre-registration is required. Call (850) 416-7262. Course provided by Sacred Heart Education. Mojo Elite Gymnastics Parent/Toddler Classes 6890 W Fairfield Dr., Pensacola. Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday morning at 9 a.m. we have a parent/toddler class for only $5. The first visit is free. Children walking to age 3 are welcome. This is a great way for toddlers to explore in a safe environment and meet new friends! Call (850) 733-3547 or e-mail info@mojogymnastics.com.
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Diabetes
Sacred Heart’s Diabetes Education Program offers individual and group instruction to help patients gain knowledge to control their disease, avoid complications and teach or enhance skills for a healthier life. Our Certified Diabetes Educators (CDEs) include registered nurses and registered dietitians. For more information or to register for a class, please call (850) 416-7261. Classes include: •Continuous Glucose Monitor Application and Training Professional and personal •Diabetes and Pregnancy offered weekly for women with Type 2 diabetes or gestational diabetes. Individual counseling is also offered for pregnant women with Type 1 diabetes. Please complete our Patient Questionnaire form and bring it with you to your appointment or e-mail to Diabetes-scheduling@shhpens.org. •Insulin Pump Training Comprehensive training and Carbohydrate counting •Insulin Training Skills training on equipment use, an understanding of insulins and Hypoglycemia •Living Well with Diabetes course for adults with diabetes and their family members. •Pre-Pump Training Discussion of benefits of pump and insulin pump limitations.
Prenatal & Childbirth
Baptist Women’s Center offers you choices to tailor your experience from early pregnancy to months following your baby’s birth. Our experienced team of nurses and educators are specially trained to make your birthing experience one of a kind. To register or for more info about our classes, call (850) 434-4567 or visit www. ebaptisthealthcare.org/ContentDocuments/MotherBaby/ Baptist_Babies_Classes_Registration_2016.pdf. Baby Care Basics – Two-class series walks you through what to expect in the hospital and at home. A key milestones guide will be given to monitor baby’s growth and needs and how to meet them. Baptist Birth Experience – Overview of the Baptist Women’s Center, tour and epidural video. FREE. Baptist Hospital, Prenatal Classroom, 3rd Floor. Usually held first Saturdays of most months, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Beginning Breastfeeding – This class teaches how breastfeeding works, the best way to start, and what choices will result in a rewarding breastfeeding experience. Prepared Childbirth – This class prepares you and your partner for the labor and delivery journey by understanding the process and offering coping skills. Sibling Class (Ages 3 to 8) This class helps you prepare your children for the arrival of the new member of the family! $10 per child per class. Baptist Hospital, Prenatal Classroom, 3rd Floor. Tours of Baptist Hospital, 3rd Floor, Labor and Delivery Unit Please call (850) 434-4874 to reserve your tour time. Tours are available Mondays and Fridays, 5:30 p.m. Sacred Heart Hospital offers a variety of prenatal education classes designed to help parents-to-be prepare for their special day and for the days that follow back home with the new baby. Registration is required for all classes and is offered online. For any questions, please call (850) 416-6378 (NEST) or visit www.sacredheart.org/SHHP/Childbirth/Main/Guidance/?ID=986. Breastfeeding This two-hour class, taught by one of Sacred Heart Hospital’s lactation consultants, teaches techniques for breastfeeding success and addresses common concerns to make your experience as smooth as possible. Cost is $20 per couple. Offered monthly on Monday evenings and Saturday mornings. To see a list of upcoming dates, visit www.sacred-heart.org/SHHP/Childbirth/Main/ Guidance/?ID=986. Infant/Child CPR Course Class is open to new parents, family members and friends who will be caring for a baby or young child. Classes are held every Tuesday from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Fee is $22 per person and pre-registration is required. To register, please call the Sacred Heart Education Department at (850) 416-7264. This class is an orientation to CPR and is not a certifying or credentialing course.
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FamilyCalendar “My Family’s Growing” Sibling Class Class prepares soon-to-be siblings (ages 3 through 10) for the arrival of a new baby in their family. Our sibling class includes a complete tour of the Maternity & Women’s Center of Sacred Heart Hospital. Cost is $10 per child. To see a list of upcoming dates, visit www.sacred-heart.org/SHHP/Childbirth/Main/ Guidance/?ID=986. Newborn Parenting This class strives to prepare parents in caring for their new bundle of joy, from birth through the first few weeks at home. Newborn Parenting is taught by experienced nurses from Sacred Heart Hospital’s mother-baby unit, and a local pediatrician will be available to answer questions during a portion of the class. Cost is $20 per couple. To see a list of upcoming dates, visit www.sacred-heart.org/SHHP/Childbirth/Main/ Guidance/?ID=986. Prepared Childbirth Classes Designed to help prepare you and your partner for the birthing process – including tips to make you more comfortable during labor – Prepared Childbirth Classes are taught by experienced obstetrics nurses and include a tour of the Maternity and Women’s Center. Cost is $50 per couple. This course is offered in two different formats to meet your scheduling and educational needs: •As a four-week series, especially designed for firsttime moms. •As a one-day class, ideal for moms who have had children before and are looking for a refresher course in the delivery experience. To see a list of upcoming dates, visit www.sacred-heart. org/SHHP/Childbirth/Main/Guidance/?ID=986. Tours Tours of Sacred Heart Hospital’s Maternity & Women’s Center will give soon-to-be moms an idea of what to expect during your stay at the hospital, including where to go, where to park and what to bring when you arrive for the delivery of your baby. Partners are welcome and encouraged to attend. To see a list of upcoming dates, visit www. sacred-heart.org/SHHP/Childbirth/Main/Guidance/?ID=986. West Florida Hospital understands that giving birth is a family affair, and we encourage the involvement of family and friends in the birth process. For more information about The Family Birthplace or childbirth classes at West Florida Hospital, call (850) 494-4368. Breastfeeding Classes Participants learn the anatomy of the breast, valuable benefits of breastfeeding, diet for the pregnant and postpartum mother, common concerns and breastfeeding techniques, pumping/storage of breast milk, bonding and skin-to-skin. For more information, call Jeannie Connolly, CNM, Director of Perinatal Services, at (850) 494-4364 or visit http://westfloridahospital.com/service/ childbirth-preparation. Childbirth Preparation - 4 Week Series Class provides essential research based information to help new parents be better prepared for their own birth experience. Parents will learn about the stages of labor through innovative 3D animation, how the birth process unfolds using real birth stories, helpful partner support tips, what to expect from common medical procedures, and much more. Content includes: pregnancy, labor, birth stories, comfort techniques, medical procedures, cesarean birth, newborns, and postpartum. For more info, call Jeannie Connolly, CNM, Director of Perinatal Services, at (850) 494-4364 or visit http://westfloridahospital.com/service/childbirth-preparation. Childbirth Preparation Express Classes This 4-hour class provides essential research based information to help new parents be better prepared for their own birth experience. Parents will learn about the stages of labor through innovative 3D animation, how the birth process unfolds using real birth stories, helpful partner support tips, what to expect from common medical procedures, and much more. Content includes: pregnancy, labor, birth stories, comfort techniques, medical procedures, cesarean birth, newborns, and postpartum. For more info, call Jeannie Connolly, CNM, Director of Perinatal Services, at (850) 494-4364 or visit http://westfloridahospital.com/service/childbirthpreparation.
Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2016
Support Groups Cancer
Gulf Coast Wings of Hope, Inc. Support Group Supporting families of children with blood disorders and cancer. Anyone with a friend or family member who has been stricken with a form of childhood cancer or blood disorder is welcome. All meetings will be held on the 3rd Tuesday of the month from 6:30-8:00 p.m. in Conference Room A of the Women’s and Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart. More details can be found at www.wingsofhopeinc.org.
Refreshments will be served. Usually held second Fridays, 1-2 p.m. To verify meeting dates and times, call (850) 494-3212 or visit https://westfloridahospital.secure.ehc. com/calendar/index.dot.
Prostate Cancer Self Help Group This group sponsored by the American Cancer Society is designed to educate and support men facing prostate cancer. Meets the first Saturday of the month at Sacred Heart Hospital, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Call 438-4491. Sacred Heart Cancer Center Sacred Heart provides emotional support and education for cancer patients and their families through a variety of support groups. For more info, visit the Cancer Center Support Groups website or call (850) 416-2679.
Grief Support
GriefShare The Sacred Heart Palliative Care department provides a free, 13-week Grief Support Group for adults who have lost a loved one. The meetings are in the Palliative Care department, located in Suite 201 of the Bayou Tower on Sacred Heart’s Pensacola campus. The public may use the free valet parking at the hospital’s Bayou Tower entrance, which faces Bayou Blvd. For class dates and times and for registration information, call Kerri Riggs, LCSW, at (850) 416-7705. Grief Support Group for Adults Sacred Heart Hospital and Covenant Hospice partner to provide a free, six-week Grief Support Group for adults who have lost a loved one. The meetings are in the Palliative Care Department, located in Suite 201 of the Heart & Vascular Institute on Sacred Heart’s Pensacola campus. The public may use the free valet parking at the hospital’s main entrance, which faces Ninth Avenue. A representative will meet participants in the hospital lobby and direct them to the meeting room. For class dates and times and for registration information, call Paula Butler at (850) 202-0345.
Illness Support
Alzheimer’s Support Group West Florida Hospital - West Florida Rehab - Community Rooms A & B, 8383 North Davis Highway, Pensacola. For meeting dates and times, call (850) 494-3212 or visit https://westfloridahospital.secure.ehc.com/calendar/index. dot. Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) Support Group First Mondays @ 6:30-7:30 p.m. at Ever’man’s in the community education room. Complimentary. The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America offers a local support group where patients, family members, and caregivers can connect to others living with these digestive diseases in order to discuss the latest in research, offer educational resources, seek emotional support, exchange disease management tips, and enjoy a sense of solidarity with people in the community who also suffer from inflammatory bowel disease. For more info, visit http://everman.org/event/ crohns-and-colitis-foundation-of-america-ccfa-2/. Parkinson’s Disease Support Group West Florida Hospital - West Florida Rehab - Community Rooms A & B, 8383 North Davis Highway, Pensacola.
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Parent Support
Baptist Mommy & Me Baptist Hospital, Prenatal Classroom, 3rd Floor. Support group for moms with babies up to six months old. For more info, call (850) 434-4567. Every other Thursday, 10 a.m. to noon, beginning with January 7. La Leche League Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. Our mission is to help mothers breastfeed through mother-to-mother support, encouragement, information, and education, and to promote a better understanding of breastfeeding as an important element in the healthy development of the baby and mother. Free. Next meeting will be held August 4 from 10 a.m.-noon. For more info, call (850) 433-5353 ext. 10 or visit http://everman.org/event/ la-leche-league-5/. Mommy & Me Support Group The group meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon in Classroom C/D of Sacred Heart Hospital, located at 5151 N. Ninth Ave. in Pensacola. This free support group provides mothers with an opportunity to share experiences, gain support and develop friendships. A lactation consultant from the Sacred Heart Maternity & Women’s Center will be present to answer questions and offer advice. Baby weight checks are offered at each meeting. Space is limited, and pre-registration is required for each class session. For more info about this class or your parenting experience, please call The Nesting Place Women’s Boutique at 850-416-6378 (NEST) or visit www.sacred-heart.org/childbirth. Pensacola Parents of Multiples Meets the second Thursday of each month at Sacred Heart Hospital Pensacola. Meetings are held at 7 p.m. in Conference Rooms C & D, which are located in a hallway between The Children’s Hospital and the Cafeteria. Parking is available in the 9th Avenue Parking garage and in the lot in front of The Children’s Hospital. If you are expecting or already blessed with multiples, you are encouraged to get free, helpful information. We offer a support network, social activities for children and parents, library, and more. For more info, e-mail PensacolaParentsofMultiples@ hotmail.com
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Special Needs
Children With Attention Deficit Disorders (CHADD) Support Group For families of children with attention deficit disorders. To find a local group, please visit www.chadd.org/. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of this information. However, you should always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.
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Books, Beds and Sleepyheads Preparing children for a good night’s sleep can include a variety of routines and regimens, all designed to help kids relax and settle into the bedtime groove. Warm baths, dimmed lights, and soft pajamas create soothing transitions from active play to relaxation. Best among these comforting routines is the time-honored bed time traditions of finding just the right books to settle in with before lights out. The following titles are recommended for winding down wound up kids with simple text, soft-edged illustrations and sweet progressions toward sleep.
Sheep Go to Sleep
by Nancy Shaw, Illustrated by Margot Apple (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) Five sheep are back from their latest adventure and heading home to hit the sack. They’re ready for sleep in their snug beds of hay but nighttime noises are keeping them awake. Enter the loyal collie who has just the thing to soothe restless sheep. Helping with a hug for one, a drink for another, collie has something to offer each sheep as they countdown toward slumber. Nursery rhyme fans will also smile when they discover where an exhausted dog ends up after getting the herd to bed. With simple rhyming text and soft-edged illustrations this title is perfect for little ones who are just beginning to count sheep as they go to sleep.
g call t/
d la.
p t
red
ng t
y ng
ng o k, e.
D)
o
om
Good Night Like This
by Mary Murphy (Candlewick) Dusk arrives with gorgeous color as animal parents prepare their young for evening slumber. Rabbits, bears, fireflies and squirrels all snuggle in with their babes as twilight looms, calming and cuddling their little ones. Each two-page spread features a split page insert that shows the moments just before sleep, then turns to reveals the sleeping family. The evening hues shift from dusky orange, through violet to blue as the progression toward bedtime sees the departure of the sun and the arrival of starry skies. Children reading along will enjoy identifying the shadowy silhouettes that say “good night” while chiming in with their own “like this” refrain after each animal closes its eyes.
Rock-a-Bye Romp
by Linda Ashman, Illustrated by Simona Mulazzani (Nancy Paulsen / Penguin Random House) Taking inspiration from the ‘Rock-a-bye, Baby’ lullaby, this baby’s journey toward slumber departs from the treetop and takes a round-a-bout tour before the last goodnight. Rendered with almost dreamlike detail, baby leaves the cradle in the boughs and soars through darkening skies, floats along rivers of stars, and ambles across peaceful pastures. Animals met along the way all seems to be guiding baby toward a sleepy destination. The journey ends when the child finally lands in mother’s arms, and makes the last stop of the night in baby’s own bed (under a swaying mobile featuring many of the child’s fellow travelers on the journey toward sleep). With rhyming text that perfectly syncs with the original lullaby, readers may also use this gentle selection to sing the way toward slumber. Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.
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Florence Foster Jenkins
Pete’s Dragon MPAA Rating: PG Overall: AViolence: B Sexual Content: A Language: AAlcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated Pete’s Dragon PG for action, peril and brief language. What is an adventure? Is it scary? These are among the questions asked by five year-old Pete (Oakes Fegley) as he sits reading aloud from the picture book “Elliot Gets Lost” in the back seat of his parents’ station wagon while they make their way down a secluded road. Then things take a turn for the worse. A devastating car accident (not shown on screen) leaves the child orphaned and alone in the woods with wolves howling all around him. Trying to be brave, the young boy does his best to summon his courage as the snarling animals close in. Suddenly their plan to have Pete for supper is interrupted by a fierce growling coming from the nearby trees. As the predators whimper away, a terrified Pete watches and waits for the source of the sound to appear. Is it a bear? A cougar? No... It’s a huge dragon! The imposing creature emerges from the shadows revealing coarse fur and an impressive set of leathery wings. Still, it seems more curious than hostile as it approaches. Almost instantly a magical bond forms between the lost child and the gentle, green giant. Six years pass and the unlikely companions are as close as can be. Sharing a cave, the colossal creature (now affectionately known as Elliot) and the growing boy play and explore in the wilderness all day and spend their evenings around a small fire. Yet everything changes when Pete sees another human in the forest. First he catches a glimpse of a woman putting marks on some of the trees. The next day, a strange sound alerts him to her return. This time she has in tow a crew of chainsaw-wielding workers and some arguing men. Enthralled, Pete watches from a distance until he notices the group also includes a young girl. And she spots him too. Unfortunately, Pete’s craving for human contact leads to him being captured and taken back to civilization. Here, forest ranger Grace Meacham (Bryce Dallas Howard), her fiancé Jack (Wes Bentley) and his daughter Natalie (Oona Laurence) try to figure out where the feral child came from. Meanwhile back in the woods, Elliot discovers that his friend is missing. But almost immediately his efforts to find his pal are hampered by a new struggle with the loggers. What neither Pete nor Elliot realize yet is that the loyalty of friendship is about to be tested against the powerful pull of family and belonging. This well-crafted movie is an entertaining ride that offers positive role models (including a strong female lead), a not entirely “bad” guy and a subtle message about preserving the environment. Family ties are on full display here, with almost all of the primary supporting characters being related. Robert Redford is especially memorable playing Grace’s father, a grizzled but kind and loving wood carver who believes Pete’s story. Elliot is a wonderfully rendered CGI character who manages to inspire awe without being frightening, easily conveys emotion and comes across as a playful, dog-like chum.
MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B+ Violence: B+ Sexual Content: C+ Language: BAlcohol / Drug Use: C The MPAA has rated Florence Foster Jenkins PG for thematic elements, scary images, action and peril. Have you ever found yourself in a situation where it seemed wise to complement someone’s abilities, even though you know they really aren’t as talented as you are leading them to believe? Such is the case for the friends and associates of Florence Foster Jenkins (played by Meryl Streep). A passionate music lover from an early age, the wealthy heiress uses her family’s fortune to establish a private theater in New York City and become a patron of the arts. But her true longing is to perform. The movie opens at the Verdi Club, where Florence literally flies above her guests, suspended from a harness while portraying a rather unconventional angel. In the audience are the many socialites who patronize the establishment and are appreciative of the talent her venue and loose purse strings attract. Yet it soon becomes obvious that the eccentric woman has the enthusiasm of a child caged within a body that isn’t able to keep up. Standing by her side is St Clair Bayfield (Hugh Grant), her husband and B-rate actor, who gently guides and keeps watch of her much like someone balancing an antique statue on a three legged table. When Florence attends a concert by Lily Pons in Carnegie Hall, it reignites her former desire to sing on stage. From years of experience, Mr. Bayfield knows that resistance to her ideas is a waste of time. So he re-hires the esteemed Metropolitan Opera conductor Carlo Edwards (David Haig) to be Florence’s vocal coach. However, a new pianist is required. The auditions produce Cosme McMoon, a brilliant player who is desperately waiting for his big break. The paycheck alone has him excited, but when he discovers he’s working with Carlo Edwards, his face immediately reveals his anticipation of having been selected for something amazing. Then Florence opens her mouth… In what is be one of the funniest movie scenes of the year, we watch St Clair and Carlo patronize their student and implore her to continue practicing while assuring her she has never sounded better. Meanwhile Cosme, doing everything he can to keep his look of utter disbelief under control and not break out into hysterical laughter, focuses all his efforts on playing the classical piece. It is at this point that we begin to understand the complexities of Florence’s public and private life. A kind and generous woman, she has offered performance and social opportunities to many. She is the financial facilitator to a grand party of benefactors and artistic hopefuls. And now she wants her own moment in the spotlight. How can those who supposedly love her, deny her this opportunity?
What Parents need to know about Florence Foster Jenkins...
Violence: Stage actors wear gory make-up. A character bitrates a disrespectful crowd. A brawl occurs at a bar. A medical condition causes an ugly rash, depleted energy, occasional hysterical behavior and eventually a complete collapse. Sexual Content: Couples embrace and kiss. An extra-marital affair is depicted. Sexual relationships are implied. A naked man and women are shown in bed, with sheets covering private body parts. A man makes sexual overtures to another man. A woman strikes some sexy poses in response to some catcalling from a group of men. Mild sexual references and innuendo are heard. Language: Racial prejudice against Jews is mentioned. Some mild and moderate profanities are heard and terms of deity are used as expletives. Alcohol / Drug Use: This period piece frequently depicts smoking and alcohol consumption. Several characters drink to excess and many are depicted as drunken. Characters suffering from hangovers vomit.
What Parents need to know about Pete’s Dragon...
Violence: Car accidents occur, but details of the incidents are obscured or implied. A five-year-old is left orphaned and alone when his parents are killed in a crash. Wild animals threaten a child. Characters are depicted as shooting tranquilizer darts at a mythical creature as well as pulling a rope tight around its neck. The dragon attempts to defends itself against capture by breathing fire at those hunting him. Characters are in perilous situations, including one depicted as jumping off a cliff, running through traffic, climbing and falling out of tall trees, leaning out of a car window on a high trestle bridge. Sexual Content: None noted. Language: Some name-calling occurs. Alcohol / Drug Use: None noted. Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2016
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SAVE THE DATE! September 17, 2016 10 AM - 2 PM Community Maritime Park
The 5-2-1-0 Day of Play is a day to get up, get out and get active! On September 17th, families will shut off their computers, tablets, and TVs and head outdoors for some fun! Come check out the many ways families get moving! Join us for a day of exciting activities, games, sports, contests and physical challenges for the entire family. Find more information at www.5210NWFL.com