Kiddos Magazine Vol. 7 Issue 6 - A Sip of Summer

summer issue

Complimentary

A Sip Of Summer HEALTH

Tips To Survive A COVID-19 Summer With Your Kids

...it’s just about kids

magazine june/july 2020 • Vol. 7 issue 6

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

In-Person & Virtual Camps Presented by

COMMUNITY

STARS Global Preparatory

ART

Art Projects From Toddlers To Teenagers

At-Home Learning Throughout Summer education, art & entertainment

PLUS...

Kiddos Cool Stuff Summer Essentials

PEDIATRIC ER

When she’s hurt outside,

you hurt inside.

COUNT ON US When your child gets sick or injured, the world seems to stop. In those moments, you want real miracles—exceptional care without worrying whether your child’s doctor or hospital has the specialized expertise and services required for the most complex cases. That’s why families count on us for emergency care.

To learn more about our pediatric emergency rooms at Holtz Children’s Hospital and Jackson North Medical Center, visit ExpertKidsCare.org.

...it’s just about kids

magazine

contents

JUN E

•

J UL Y

2020

Vol. 7 issue 6 FEATURE 8 |

At-Home Learning Throughout Summer

HEALTH 1 0 |

Six Tips To Survive A COVID-19 Summer With Your Kids

PARENTING 1 6 |

How Reading Science Fiction Can Build Resilience In Kids

in every issue 12 AWARDS

Top Miami-Dade School Learders Honored Via Virtual Ceremony

14 SCIENCE

Science Happens Here

20 SNACKS

Kid-Friendly Creativity In The Kitchen

22 PLACES

Zoo Miami Set To Reopen In June

23 GIVEAWAY

Spring and Mother's Day Fun SUMMER CAMP 1 8 |

2020 Summer Camp Guide In-Person & Virtual Camps

24 COOL STUFF

Summer Essentials

25 TRADITIONS

Father's Day Staycation Celebration

ART 2 6 |

Art Projects From Toddlers To Teenagers

COMMUNITY 2 8 | STARS

Global Preparatory Pre-Kindergarten Through Grade Eight

30 BOOK REVIEWS

Suggestions For Kids And Families To Read This Month

32 DESTINATIONS

Take Travel Online This Summer

34 CELEBRATION

Graduation And Father's Day Celebrations

on the cover MODEL: Noah

PHOTOGRAPHY: Shaina Leigh Photography IG: shainaleighphoto STYLING: Leslie Schor HAIR & MAKE UP: Kate Blake

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kiddos | June • July 2020

happy summer Kiddos Publisher’s Notes

r e m m u S f o A Sip Kiddos Magazine supports and values diversity and inclusion.

Kiddos Magazine supports the peaceful protesters across the nation in the call against racial inequality and injustice.

Kiddos Magazine’s mission is to help strengthen the bonds between parents and their children by providing value-based content. We feature and share information that strives for equality for people of all races and abilities in our community.

And the fun is still on! Congratulations to the Class of 2020! You did it!

We wish you all the best as you embark upon your new journey. Good things come your way!

Summer is here and home learning continues to prevent the summer slide!

As education can happen anywhere every day this issue brings fun topics from academic growth, online resources, tips to survive a COVID-19 summer with your kids, to ideas for a virtual family summer adventure!

Did you hear about Father’s Day Staycation Celebration? Yes! Camille shares with Kiddos 5 ideas for a memorable holiday that include all the right ingredients: good food, good fun, exercise, the great outdoors, some laughs, and tons of love.

credits ...it’s just about kids

magazine Kiddos is a Florida based kids focused magazine, whose mission is to help strengthen the bonds between parents and their children by providing value-based content and quality journalism.

PUBLISHER/ EDITOR Veronica Lepere CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Camille Lucy Dr. Gemma Carrillo FIU’s Center for Children and Families Greater Good Science Center PHOTOGRAPHY Shaina Leigh Photography DESIGN Kiddos Creative Department Etta Walker ADVERTISING SALES & MARKETING Veronica Lepere vlepere@kiddosmagazine.com KIDDOS MAGAZINE P.O. Box 431492

Summer Camp is back! Amazing opportunities for our kiddos to grow and learn this summer with in-person and virtual camps. See our summer camp guide on page 18/19 presented by Frost Science.

Last but not least, I would like to thanks to our print and online sponsors, your support is appreciated in these difficult times and help us to continue delivering the same quality content to South Florida Families.

Miami, Fl. 33243 786.260.8492 info@kiddosmagazine.com kiddosmagazine.com @KiddosMagazine

Keep practicing social distance. Happy Summer!

@KiddosMagazine @KiddosMagazine

Kiddos Magazine is produced by V&L Design LLC ©2020 Kiddos Magazine VERONICA LEPERE Publisher vlepere@kiddosmagazine.com

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kiddos | June • July 2020

Volume 7. Issue 6. Kiddos Magazine is published bi-monthly in the U.S.A. by V&L Design LLC. All content copyright ©2020 V&L Design LLC. All rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Kiddos Magazine assumes no responsability for claims and content of advertisements. To become a distribution outlet for Kiddos Magazine please call 786.260.8492.

At-Home Learning Throughout Summer Source: BOOK IT Programs

W

8

Tips for keeping students sharp over the long-haul

ith the majority of schools across the country closed during COVID-19 pandemic, many parents are feeling the stress of taking more active roles in their children’s education. As time away from the classroom extends into summer, parents also face the challenge of helping their children maintain what they’ve learned through a summer of uncertainty.

• Set a clear daily schedule with

This year’s shift to at-home learning has provided plenty of resources parents can use to keep their children’s minds engaged and actively learning. The shift has also prompted families to create new routines and healthy learning habits. Continuing these best practices over the summer may prove beneficial in setting students up for success when they return to the classroom.

promotes healthy brain development and boosts academic skills. Play time also helps children manage stress – making it an important and fun way for parents to support kids coping with stress or anxiety.

kiddos | June • July 2020

realistic goals and be sure to allow flexibility. A child’s attention span grows longer with age – typically 2-3 minutes per year of age – so the amount of time an elementary school student will focus on a task may be significantly shorter than a high school student.

• Build in time for kids to play. Playing

• Create a conducive learning

environment at home. If possible, set up a designated desk and distraction-free workspace children can use for everything

from completing school assignments to playing educational games.

While routines are important, they may not be the only key to summer learning success. Research from Harvard indicates parents who engage with their children in simple activities over the summer – like reading together or talking about baseball statistics – can have a greater impact on their children’s academic performance than popular summer activities, such as summer camps, travel or summer school.

Since education can happen anywhere as part of everyday life, there are many activities families can do together to create a sense of summertime fun while fostering academic growth.

For information on free or low-cost home internet access, as well as other resources for teachers and families, visit firstbook. org/coronavirus-educator-resources.

Online field trips: While school and family outings are limited, it’s still possible to explore the world from the comfort of home. Zoos, museums and other places of interest are sharing everything from educational videos and live webcams to guided tours on their websites and social media.

• Spend some time cooking or baking

together. Use these experiences as opportunities to practice reading recipes or practice math by measuring and adding ingredients.

• Teach your kids to swim or practice

their swimming skills if you have a pool, there are also fun floating devices to make that summer splash!

• Work with other parents or family

members to find summer pen pals.

Have kids write letters back and forth to practice reading and writing skills.

• Explore science and nature by taking a walk. Try and identify different types of clouds, trees, plants, rocks and animals. Take pictures of any you find interesting. Then look up additional information when you return home to practice research skills.

• Watch the news or read about current events together. This can provide practical lessons on social studies and help kids raise questions about the world around them.

ABCs of Combating Summer Slide While on summer break, kids commonly lose some of the learning momentum from the previous school year. It’s a phenomenon casually referred to as the “summer slide.”

A report from the Northwest Evaluation Association found students in third-fifth grades lost about 20% of their schoolyear gains in reading and 27% in math, on average, during summer break.

After such an abrupt end to formal curriculum, the slide could be a little steeper for kids in the fall. However, summer plans for families likely look different this year. More free time may make it easier to build in time for educational activities, which can also offer an escape during this uncertain time.

Where and How to Access Online Resources From educators helping their students to organizations lending support in trying times, dozens if not hundreds of online resources have emerged to help parents navigate teaching at home.

Reading programs: Literacy is the foundation for all learning, so focusing on activities that promote reading gives children a chance to practice that essential skill, often in ways that don’t feel like learning. One resource is The Pizza Hut BOOK IT! Program, the nation’s largest and longest-running corporatesupported reading program. Parents can visit bookitprogram.com to find a number of activities designed to help children find joy in reading. Resources include book recommendations, activity and book pairings, video messages from best-selling authors Tom Angleberger and Kate DiCamillo and printable worksheets, story maps and more.

Educational websites: Many academic websites have opened their subscription-based content for free or reduced access. You can find videos, interactive programs, lesson plans and more. Before creating an account, check if your school has secured free or discounted access codes.

New skills: From learning the basics of keyboard typing to trying a new instrument or mastering a new language, there are sites dedicated to helping students develop new skills while they’re at home. k

Internet Access: While many athome learning resources can be found online, some families lack access to reliable and affordable internet connections.

it’s just about kids | kiddosmagazine.com

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health

Six Tips To Survive A COVID-19 Summer With Your Kids Source: FIU’s Center for Children and Families

D

ue to the coronavirus pandemic, parents all over the country somehow managed to homeschool their children these last few months, and many were hoping for some relief over the summer. Unfortunately, many summer camps have already cancelled their programs, and families now face a new challenge—figuring out what to do with their kids over the summer.

Erika Coles, clinical director at the FIU Center for Children and Families, shares some tips on how parents can survive the summer with their kids while staying home.

1. Maintain a routine.

When kids don’t have a routine they can For the follow, they tend to summer, involve misbehave more and your kids in have more anxiety. the process of 3. Limit screen time.

For the summer, creating their All kids have been involve your kids in schedule for exposed to significantly the process of creating the day. more screen time since their schedule for the being in quarantine. Make day. It will make them sure you plan some fun feel empowered, and outdoor activities they can do such they will more likely follow the as bike riding and soccer, and include schedule, since they helped to create some creative activities like family it. Find some fun activities they can game nights, painting, or working on a do throughout the day and have them complex puzzle or Lego set. choose which ones they want to do.

While the schedule for the day doesn’t 4. Stay connected. have to be jam-packed with activities, Take the time to continue to stay make sure that bedtimes and mealtimes connected with others (both your are as consistent as possible. children with their friends and you with other parents, family and friends). You 2. Reward positive behavior. can schedule virtual play dates or do a Kids need and crave attention. Reward drive-by visit to friends and family. your child with positive praise when you catch them being good by saying 5. Incorporate academic time. things like, “I am so proud of you for Help prevent summer learning loss by cleaning up your room all by yourself.” infusing some fun academic activities You should also leverage everyday like reading and online activities from things like screen time as a reward or local museums. The Children’s Trust are give them a small prize for their positive offering tons of free fun activities and behavior to continue to motivate them.

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kiddos | June • July 2020

support for families on their Stay Home Miami website.

6. Get help.

The last few months have been a whirlwind for most families, and everyone has been doing their best to stay afloat. Most families haven’t processed how the coronavirus has impacted their mental health and will continue to do so. Take some time over the summer to check in on your mental health and seek support for you and your child if you need it. It could be anything from helping you to manage your child’s behavior at home to helping manage your child’s worries and fears. k

The FIU Center for Children and Families offers a wide range of evidence-based telehealth services for families in need during this time.

Visit their website to obtain more information about their services and free resources for families during this time.

ONLINE SUMMER TUTORING

JOIN US VIRTUALLY!

Now Offering Telehealth Parenting Groups for Families with Young Children Families First offers FREE parenting groups for parents of children ages birth through 3 years throughout Miami-Dade magazine County in both English and Spanish.

Register Online!

Do you want to keep your kids learning this summer and prepare them for the next school year?

We are offering FUN online summer tutoring sessions in Math, Reading, and Spanish.

• Choose between

2 - 4 private tutoring sessions per week

• 6 weeks program • Flexible start date • Customized schedule for each student

Your children's academic success is our goal.

www.miamihomeworkhelp.com 1on1homeworkhelp@gmail.com

FB Miami Homework Help IG @miami_homework_help

Call Us 786.383.1920

Funded by The Children’s Trust, our program enables you to learn more about child development and positive discipline from experts at the University of Miami.

BABY & ME

For parents and babies birth to 6 months Classes meet once a week for 10 weeks

DISCUSS & LEARN WAYS TO: • Understand your baby’s language • Help your baby grow and develop Take home FREE baby items!

Meet other parents!

For parents of children 1-3 years Classes meet once a week for 12 weeks

DISCUSS & LEARN WAYS TO: • Build a positive relationship with your child • Promote your child’s social-emotional development • Use positive discipline to set limits effectively • Manage separations and reunions Receive FREE items related to course material!

FOLLOW US /umfamiliesfirst To register, please call 305.243.8425 or e-mail us at FamiliesFirst@miami.edu

¡PARTICIPEN DE NUESTRAS CLASES VIRTUALES PARA PADRES! ¡Ahora ofrecemos clases para padres con niños pequeños en forma virtual!

Families First ofrece clases gratuitas para padres de niños de 0 a 3 años en distintas localidades del condado de Miami-Dade, en ingles y en español.

Registrarse en linea!

it’s just about kids | kiddosmagazine.com

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kiddos

awards

Top Miami-Dade School Leaders Honored Via Virtual Ceremony

T

he Year ip al of t os c in r P 0 202 Villalob Rafael A.

2020 Assis ta the Year L nt Princip al of amar John son

he top Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) administrators were recognized Monday evening during a live-streaming ceremony on Facebook of the annual Principal and Assistant Principal of the Year awards.

has resonated in every school he has led. His leadership has yielded major impacts, as evidenced by substantial increases in graduation rates, academic performance, and in the pioneering of innovative educational programs.

Assistant Principal of the Year. Johnson began his career in 2008 as a Miami Teaching Fellow. He will take home $1,500, a 55-inch TV from Toyota of North Miami, and a special gift basket valued at more than $1,000.

Rafael A. Villalobos, the charismatic and innovative leader of John A. Ferguson Senior High who has helped shape the lives of thousands of students throughout Miami-Dade County Public Schools for more than 20 years, has been named the 2020 Principal of the Year.

Villalobos will receive a $2,000 cash prize, a three-year car lease sponsored

by Toyota of North Miami, and a special gift basket valued at more than $2,000.

The runner up is Celethia Passmore-Mack of Dr. Manuel C. Barreiro Elementary. She will receive a $600 cash prize.

Following his basic philosophy of putting students first, Villalobos’ love and passion

The runner up is Leon Maycock, principal of Miami Edison Senior High School. He will receive a $1,000 cash prize. Lamar Johnson, an assistant principal at Jesse J. McCrary, Jr. Elementary was named

The annual event was sponsored by the Dade Association of School Administrators (DASA). k

For the most up-to-date information, visit www.dadeschools.net

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Schedule your appointment today and ask about our New Patient Special.

Payment plans and financing available Assure A Smile is located at 9220 SW 72nd Street, Suite 205 Miami, FL 33173 Tel: 305.274.0047

assureasmile.com 12

kiddos | June • July 2020

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13

kiddos

science

Science Happens Here Continue To Inspire A Love For Science.

T

he Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science (Frost Science) in Downtown Miami is much more than a building – science happens here.

Understanding and protecting our natural environment here in South Florida is among the most important work that they do. They rehabilitate birds of prey and other vulnerable avian species; restore natural equilibrium to our area reefs by removing invasive marine life; champion coral research and restoration; collaborate with peers to study and protect threatened marine organisms; and restore wetlands and coastal habitats.

Their commitment to the community has never faltered, and their commitment to science education has never been stronger.

However, with the loss of revenue from being temporarily closed, many of their ongoing research and conservation programs will not be able to continue without community support.

The museum also recently launched a new, free digital platform series, Frost Science@Home, giving web visitors the opportunity to explore free educational resources, videos, DIY science activities and behind-the-scenes content. In addition, the museum is contributing to global scientific research efforts to fight diseases such as COVID-19 by enabling the use of its powerful, state-of-the-art

Frost Planetarium computer servers through an innovative platform run by the University of California, Berkeley.

Frost Science is giving researchers access to the servers of the museum’s Frost Planetarium for use in the critical Rosetta@home (R@h) project from the University of Washington. The R@h project is looking to help accurately model important coronavirus proteins and predict their three-dimensional shapes. Knowledge gained from studying these viral proteins is now being used to guide the design of novel vaccines and antiviral drugs. k

All of these programs and initiatives are possible because of contributions the museum receives and the community’s ongoing generosity. To support Frost Science with a donation, please visit frostscience.org/donate. For more information about Frost Science@Home, please visit www.frostscience.org/athome.

Miami’s newest non-profit Private School TO ENROLL IN SUMMER CAMP Starts June 15th until July 27th Call: 305-846-9346 Email: enunez@starsglobalprep.org

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kiddos | June • July 2020

REGISTER FOR 2020 SCHOOL YEAR Visit www.StarsGlobalPrep.org Click on “Prospective Parents”

VIRTUAL

ENGINEERING

MARINE SCIENCES

ASTRONOMY

TECHNOLOGY

AGES 4 - 14 JUNE 8 AUGUST 14

Take camp anywhere!

Spend your summer with Frost Science during this remote learning experience for children and teens led by museum educators.

REGISTER NOW

Visit frostscience.org/summercamp 1101 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132 | 305-434-9600 | frostscience.org

Children's Resources Preschool & Elementary IS YOUR CHILD HAVING DIFFICULTY IN SCHOOL? MAKE A CHANGE NOW!

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Differentiated instruction to meet each child’s needs Individual Education Plans (IEP) ● Academic Achievement assessments 2xs per year ● 1:5 teacher to student ratio ● Bachelor and Master degree level teachers ● Multi-Modal teaching approach ● Accommodations to meet each child’s individual needs ● Music Therapy, Yoga, Soccer & Dance programs ● ●

INCLUSION PRESCHOOL

High Scope Curriculum promoting communication, problem solving and critical thinking skills ● Hands on learning ● Nurturing, safe and friendly environment ● Music Therapy & Cooking program ● 1:5 teacher to student ratios ● Bachelor degree level teachers ● Bachelor Degree level teacher ● Accredited by NAEYC ●

ROLE MODEL SCHOLARSHIPS NOW AVAILABLE Serving children with special needs & typically developing children.

All therapies, including speech, occupational and behavior are offered on-site along with many extracurricular activities.

For more information, please call 305 596-6966 8571 SW 112 Street - Miami, Florida 33156 - WWW.CRFCENTER.ORG Children's Resource Preschool 20 ad.indd 1

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it’s just about kids | kiddosmagazine.com

15

parenting

How Reading Science Fiction Can Build Resilience In Kids Source: Greater Good Science Center

Science fiction and fantasy gets a bad rap—but recent research suggests it can help kids bounce back from adversity.

Y

oung people who are hooked on watching fantasy or reading science fiction may be on to something.

Contrary to a common misperception that reading this genre is an unworthy practice, reading science fiction and fantasy may help young people cope, especially with the stress and anxiety of living through the COVID-19 pandemic.

While many people may not consider science fiction, fantasy, or speculative fiction to be “literary,” research shows that all fiction can generate critical thinking skills and emotional intelligence for young readers. Science fiction may have a power all its own.

Why science fiction gets a bad rap Historically, those who read science fiction have been stigmatized as geeks

who can’t cope with reality. This perception persists, particularly for those who are unaware of the changes to this genre in the past several decades.

While science fiction has become more mainstream, one study claimed that science fiction makes readers stupid.

A subsequent study by the same authors later refuted this claim when the quality of writing was taken into account.

This ongoing ambivalence towards the genre contributes to the stereotype that such works are of little value because they presumably don’t engage real human dilemmas. In actuality, they do. Such stereotypes assume that young people can only learn to cope with human dilemmas by engaging in mirror-image reflections of reality including what they read or watch.

The mental health of reading Reading science fiction and fantasy can help readers make sense of the world.

Rather than limiting readers’ capacity to deal with reality, exposure to outside-thebox creative stories may expand their ability to engage reality based on science.

A 2015 survey of science fiction and fantasy readers found that these readers were also major consumers of a wide range of other types of books and media.

In fact, the study noted a connection between respondents’ consumption of varied literary forms and an ability to understand science.

With increasing rates of anxiety, depression, and mental health issues for youth in the past two decades, it may be the case that young people, no different from American society generally, are suffering from reality overload. Young people today have unprecedented access to information about which they may have little power to influence or change.

The powerful world of science fiction Science fiction and fantasy do not need to provide a mirror image of reality in order to offer compelling stories about serious social and political issues. The fact that the setting or characters are extraordinary may be precisely why they are powerful and where their value lies.

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kiddos | June • July 2020

kiddos

fun

Match The Pairs.

Spot The Odd One Out. From the Harry Potter and Hunger Games series to novels like Octavia Butler’s Parable of the Sower and Parable of the Talents and Nancy Kress’ Beggars in Spain, youths see examples of young people grappling with serious social, economic, and political issues that are timely and relevant, but in settings or times that offer critical distance.

This distance gives readers an avenue to grapple with complexity and use their imagination to consider different ways of managing social challenges. What better way to deal with the uncertainty of this time than with forms of fiction that make us comfortable with being uncomfortable, that explore uncertainty and ambiguity, and depict young people as active agents, survivors and shapers of their own destinies?

Let them read science fiction. In it, young people can see themselves—coping, surviving and learning lessons—that may enable them to create their own strategies for resilience. In this time of COVID-19 and physical distancing, we may be reluctant for kids to embrace creative forms that seem to separate them psychologically from reality.

But the critical thinking and agile habits of mind prompted by this type of literature may actually produce resilience and creativity that everyday life and reality typically do not.

The Greater Good Science Center studies the psychology, sociology, and neuroscience of well-being, and teaches skills that foster a thriving, resilient, and compassionate society. For more information visit www.ggsc.berkeley.edu k

About the Author Esther L. Jones, Ph.D., is Associate Provost and Dean of the Faculty at Clark University, where she is a tenured professor in the department of English and the E. Franklin Frazier Chair of African American Literature, Theory and Culture.

Her research and teaching specializations include race, gender, health and medical ethics as represented in literature, especially science fiction and fantasy. She is the author of Medicine and Ethics in Black Women’s Speculative Fiction (2015). it’s just about kids | kiddosmagazine.com

17

p m a C r e m m Su Summer Camp at Frost Science!

In-Person & Virtual Camp There are now two cool ways to spend the summer with the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science: in-person camp or virtual camp! From June 8 through August 14, children ages 4-14 will explore the wonders of science through weeklong camps themed around engineering, marine sciences, astronomy and technology.

The safety and health of campers and staff is always the highest priority at Frost Science camp. Space is limited, so reserve your spot today.

Tel: 305.434.9564 camp@frostscience.org www.frostscience.org/summercamp 1101 Biscayne Blvd. Miami, FL 33132

Fantasy Theatre Factory Summer Camp Virtual Summer Camp Fantasy Theatre Factory presents its Virtual Theatre Arts Summer Camp at the Sandrell Rivers Theater! This exciting program includes online courses, campers showcase, and more!

Low-cost summer camp enrollment fee of $50 with only 15 spots. Scholarships are available. June 8 – July 3 and July 6-31 (tentatively in-person). Camp runs 10 am–2 pm for kids 7-12. Reserve your spot today!

Tel. 305.284.8800 ext. 463 evelyn@ftfshow.com www.ftfshows.com/camp 6103 NW 7th Ave Miami, FL 33127

Miami Homework Help Online Summer Tutoring Virtual Summer Camp Do you want to keep your kids learning this summer and prepare them for the next school year? We are offering FUN online summer tutoring sessions in Math, Reading, and Spanish.

Choose between 2 - 4 private tutoring sessions per week, 6 weeks program, flexible start date and customized schedule for each student. Your children's academic success is our goal.

Tel. 786.383.1920 1on1homeworkhelp@gmail.com www.miamihomeworkhelp.com

The Real Food Academy Summer Camp In-Person Summer Camp Join us this summer in our ESPECTACULAR new location. This is the best, most experienced and most trusted Cooking Camp in Miami.

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kiddos | June • July 2020

Your child/ren (ages 7-16) will be grouped together working with those only in their own age group. They will learn cooking fundamentals and dive into the world of healthy cuisine. You can expect your child’s eating habits to improve as they learn the difference between REAL and Processed foods!

They will have a blast participating in Food Chalenge Competiitons! This camp is life changing! Don’t wait because this camp will sell out. Seats are limited.

Offered Mon-Fri from 9-3pm.

Tel. 786.395.0355 www.therealfoodacademy.com 570 NE 81st St. Miami, FL 33138

Musical Theatre Performance Camp @ Area Stage Company!

Summer theatre programs for ages 6-18 start June 8th! Join Broadway Bites weekly intensives, where you will learn scenes and songs from a Broadway musical to be performed in a showcase on Friday of each week!

10 sessions available. For more

The Summer Camp programs featured in our guide are following state and local health protocols to ensure your child and camper's safety. Please feel free to reach out directly to the summer camp directors for more information and registrations. There are still amazing opportunities for our Kiddos to grow and learn this summer with in-person and virtual camps. committed performers, join Broadway veteran performer and choreographer Charlie Sutton for a 4-week Fast Track to Broadway theatre dance intensive where you will refine your technique, gain strength and flexibility, and learn dances straight from the Broadway stage! Classes split into two levels: Beginner and Intermediate/Advanced.

No experience necessary! All programs available either virtually or in-person.

Enroll now!

Tel: 305.666.2078 frontdesk@areastagecompany.com www.areastage.org/summer 5701 Sunset Drive, Suite 286 Miami FL 33143

David Ensignia Tennis Summer Camp In-Person Summer Camp Ten weeks of tennis, fun and friends during the Summer break by David Ensignia Tennis Academy!

All levels welcome. Try tennis for the first time or be prepared to improve

your game! Learn a sport for a lifetime or gain tennis skills and competitive advantage needed to move up to the next level, our emphasis is on creating a fun, exciting learning and playing environment for everyone. Enjoy our casual Friday of water games.

Tel. 305.833.3896 davidensigniatennis@gmail.com www.davidensigniatennis.com Coral Pine Park: 6955 SW 104th st, Pinecrest, 33156 Miccosukee Golf & Country Club: 6401 Kendale Lakes Dr, 33183

Dance Empire Summer Camp In-Person & Virtual Camp Now registering for classes and summer camp! Dance Empire’s mission to train dancers of all ages in an environment where they are given the opportunity to grow and excel in their dance education. We strive to deliver the highest quality of dance instruction while nurturing each student’s unique gift of talent and creativity.

Tel. 305.232.5573 www.danceempire.com 8853 SW 132 St, Miami, FL 33176

Summer Camp STARS In-Person Summer Camp Camp STARS is a 7-week summer program (for children from Pre-K to 8th grade) that will surely keep your kiddos happy while making new friends. The camp will run from June 15th to July 27th with a registration deadline of June 10th Tel. 305.846.9346 enunez@starsglobalprep.org www.StarsGlobalPrep.org 10870 SW 113 Place, Miami, FL 33176

Summer Youth Leadership Academy Virtual Summer Camp Teaching Digital Natives is hosting its Leadership Academy designed for students, ages 11-15. The academy covers emotional intelligence, interpersonal communications, teamwork, conflict resolution, digital resilience, social media etiquette using games, role-playing, mentorship, and peer-topeer collaboration.

Tel. 772.202.3621 info@teachingdigitalnatives.org www.teachingdigitalnatives.org

sports

art music it’s just about kids | kiddosmagazine.com

19

kiddos

snacks

Kid-Friendly Creativity in the Kitchen • 12 blueberry pancakes (3-inch round), cooled to room temperature

• 1/2 cup white frosting • 6 seedless watermelon slices (2/3-inch

thick, 3-inch round), drained to remove excess moisture

Evenly frost bottom of each pancake with white frosting. Arrange six pancakes frosting side up on serving platter. Place one slice watermelon on each frosted pancake.

Top each with remaining pancakes, frosting side down. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Frosted Watermelon Cutouts Recipe courtesy of the National Watermelon Promotion Board

• 1 seedless watermelon, cut into

W

hile so many families spend more time at home than normal, many may be seeking ways to increase fun and activity, especially for children. One way to increase engagement while teaching lifelong lessons is to head to the kitchen for a learning exercise in creating nutritious snacks and treats.

Consider these creative ways you can get your kids involved in the kitchen: Look for simple recipes kids can help create. Logically, the first step in the process is to focus on ingredients and instructions that aren't overly complicated. For example, avoid snacks that call for cutting with knives and instead try a recipe like these Frosted Watermelon Cutouts, which involves kid-friendly cookie cutters.

Be flexible. Another way to involve children is to let them help in the mealplanning routine. Because kids' desired tastes may differ from your own, be open to outside-the-box ideas like breakfast for dinner, nutritious snacks for lunch and fruit for dessert.

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kiddos | June • July 2020

1/2-3/4-inch thick slices

• 1 serving vanilla yogurt • 1 serving granola or similar cereal Take advantage of nutritious produce.

Comprised of 92% water to support hydration, an option like watermelon is a source of vitamin C and other important nutrients.

At only 80 calories per 2-cup serving, one watermelon provides up to three dozen servings that can be used in a variety of nutritious family recipes, and 100% of the fruit is usable between the flesh, juice and rind. For example, this recipe for Kids Watermelon Sandwich Cookies provides a sweet treat the whole family can enjoy while calling for just a few ingredients.

Using cookie cutters, cut shapes out of watermelon slices. Or, if preferred, use classic cut watermelon wedges.

Frost each slice with yogurt. Sprinkle with granola. k

Craft a Fun, Frozen Fruit Using leftovers can make for a fun way to avoid food waste. For example, if you have extra watermelon, simply cut into 1/2-1-inch wedges and insert clean crafting sticks into the center of the rind. Put them in the freezer for at least 1 hour to create sweet watermelon ice pops.

Kids Watermelon Sandwich Cookies Recipe courtesy of the National Watermelon Promotion Board Servings: 6

Visit www.watermelon.org for more creative ways to use the whole watermelon, including recipes and kid-friendly carvings.

HAVE YOU RECENTLY LOST HEALTH COVERAGE?

HAVE YOU HAD A CHANGE IN INCOME?

Health Insurance Coverage for Florida Kids & Families

WE CAN HELP!

How Can I Enroll?

Florida KidCare: www.healthykids.org/apply Medicaid: www.myflorida.com/accessflorida/ Health Insurance Marketplace: www.healthcare.gov

OUR PARTNERS ARE HELPING FAMILIES GET ENROLLED TODAY!

I lost my coverage last month can I enroll now?

In most situations, you have 60 days to enroll in coverage from the date coverage ends. Medicaid and Florida KidCare has enrollment year round.

WHAT INFORMATION DO I NEED TO ENROLL?

My spouse lost their job, now my health plan is too expensive can I change my health plan?

Information needed for every applicant and household member:

If you have a change in household income, you may be able to change your plan. You will need to do this typically within 60 days of the income change.

Full Name Date of Birth Social Security Number Employer and income information for all family members  Policy name and numbers for any current health insurance.  Information regarding health insurance offered by an employee  Certificate of Citizenship for naturalized citizens, or Permanent Resident Card, Employment Authorization Card, or I‐94 for non‐citizens.    

Who Can I Call for Help?

We have many partners who can help you. Our partners can help in English and Spanish.

Health Council of South Florida‐ (786)‐708‐0836 Citrus Health Network‐ (305) 424‐3125 Epilepsy Florida‐ 1‐877‐553‐7453 SantLa Haitian Neighborhood Center‐ (305) 573‐4871, assistance is available in Creole.

kiddos

places

Zoo M iami Z

Set to Reopen to Visitors on June 1st

Photo Credit: Ron Magill

oo Miami will reopen to visitors on Monday, June 1st with limited capacity and safety requirements that follow the Miami-Dade County Executive Orders, “New Normal” guidelines and current CDC and State Health Department guidelines.

Before heading out to the zoo, visitors and members should go to www.zoomiami.org and click on the pop-up, or under “Plan Your Visit,” for a complete guide and video with Ron Magill detailing our “New Normal.” There will be a daily limited capacity to ensure social distancing.

Guests must pre-purchase tickets online at shop.zoomiami.org and Zoo Miami members must make online reservations to obtain free tickets at shop.zoomiami. org/member. A maximum of 10 tickets will be allowed per transaction. In addition, guests ages 2 and older are required to wear a face covering to enter Zoo Miami.

Zoo-themed masks are available for purchase online at giftshop.zoomiami. org and at the gift shop at various price points and while supplies last.

Additional procedures being implemented include one-way only directional floor decals in the following exhibits:

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kiddos | June • July 2020

Wings of Asia, Critter Connection, Amazon and Beyond, and Florida: Mission Everglades to maintain social distancing guidelines. To limit touch points, rentals of safari cycles, strollers, wheelchairs, and motorized scooters will now be available online at shop. zoomiami.org, with limited quantities available, and sanitized after every use.

Indoor buildings will be open at half the normal capacity. To minimize contact between guests and animals, the following experiences will remain closed: animal feedings (camel, giraffe, parrot, and rhino), playgrounds, rides (carousel, Lostman’s River Boat Rides, paddle boats), water play areas and zookeeper talks and presentations.

As always, outside food will not be permitted and food concessions will be open. Seating areas at these locations have been placed at a minimum of six feet apart to allow for social distancing.

“We know how important Zoo Miami is to our community and we look forward to once again being able to provide a wonderful experience for the whole family, while keeping each other safe,” said Zoo Miami Director Carol Kruse.

Zoo Miami staff will also be following special safety measures to ensure everyone’s health and safety. Zoo Miami team members and volunteers who interact with guests will be required to wear face coverings while working. Employees working with guests will have their temperature checked daily before their work shift. Zoo Miami will maintain their high standards of cleanliness and add additional measures such as increasing the frequency of cleaning high-touch surfaces throughout the day including restrooms. Additional hand sanitizing stations will be located throughout the zoo and spaced according to CDC guidelines.

Guests and members that need to make changes to their tickets should contact zoomiami@miamidade.gov or 305251-0400, ext. 0, 24 hours before their scheduled visit. k

Zoo Miami is located at 12400 SW 152 street, Miami, FL 33177. General zoo admission, $22.95/adult, plus tax and $18.95/child (3-12) plus tax, should be purchased online at shop.zoomiami.org.

kiddos

giveaway

Kiddos Magazine Spring & Mother's Day Giveaway!

Tomm y, Se b as & Jav i

Kiddos Cool Stuff Spring Giveaway Kiddos Magazine hosted a spring IG giveaway bundle filled with cool stuff and boredom busting toys, to help those parents facing challenges in keeping kids engaged (and entertained!) when sheltering in place.

The happy winners received terrific prices directly to their door from our amazing partners Playmobil, Hog Wild Toys, Zing Toys, Ciao Baby Chair, Kidstir, Go Happy Kids and Kodable!

be cc a Mom Re shk a n & Ba by A

First Time Moms Mother’s Day Giveaway

Mom Sh e i l a & Ba b y Chl o é

Mar ia ra Ale j a n d

Our Mother's Day giveaway honored First-Time Moms that had their babies during Covid-19 pandemic, and expecting moms!

Eight moms were randomly selected and each one received a selection of Gift Baskets with products from The Evolved Parent Co. and KeaBabies, Vintage Smocked dress from Feltman Brothers, Ciao! Baby Portable High Chair, CrepeMaker Cafe gift card, and IsabelleGrace Petite Charm necklace, UnbuckleMe, Kids books, and more!

Thank you to everyone participating. Stay tuned for our upcoming summer IG giveaways! it’s just about kids | kiddosmagazine.com

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kiddos

cool stuff PetPet®

Pet Body Massager Walkee Paws

PLAYMOBIL

Back to the Future DeLorean Based on the 1980s cult film trilogy, "Back to the Future," this set includes Marty McFly and Dr. Emmett Brown in their 1985 outfits and Einstein the dog, as well as the legendary DeLorean DMC-12, equipped with a plutonium tank, flux capacitor, and dashboard time travel indicator. Ages 6+ Available at www.Playmobil.us

PetPet Pet Body massager is the original massage tool, similar to a human’s scalp massager, but exclusively created to adapt to all the contours of a dog’s body providing them with great relaxation and improved circulation.

Available at www.etsy.com/shop/ ThePetPetShop

Leggings, Leash & Harness

Can’t get enough of our doggone cute prints? Then pair your pup’s leggings with our new matching Walkee Paws Harness and leash! The harness features a reversible design with a different print on each side.

Available at www.WalkeePaws.com

Summer

Go Happy Kids

Travel Tray

Essentials

Give your children a clean, contained space to play, create and eat whether you're at home, at the beach or flying the friendly skies. Endless and simple ways to spark creativity and ease stress while at home with our littles right now.

Available at www.gohappykids.com

Wild Breed Equipment

Down Travel Blanket

The ideal camping & hiking accessory: engineered with the same high-end materials as premium sleeping bags and compactable into an easy carry-on-the-go size for use anywhere you may roam.

Dad won’t want to go anywhere without it!

Available at www.wildbreedequipment.com

The Spunky Stork

Motorola

STech3 True Wireless Headphones For the dad who wants to escape and enjoy a little “me” time – gives you the opportunity to choose between flexibility of True Wireless, Sport Loop and includes a direct plug-in audio solution for any device.

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kiddos | June • July 2020

Escape 500 ANC

Wireless active noise-canceling headphones Listen without distractions. Motorola’s new Escape series over-ear wireless headphones are made for millennials.

Available at www.motorola.com

Daddy & Me Designs

Let's face it, there's nothing cuter than Dad matching with his kiddo.

Whether you're into grilling or fishing or biking or eating tacos, there's a design for you. This Father's Day give Dad The Spunky Stork!

Available at www.spunkystork.com

kiddos

traditions

Father's Day Staycation Celebration What do you get when you mix Father’s Day with Shelter-at-home orders?

A special day dedicated to Dad jam-packed with all the good stuff!

WRITTEN BY: Camille Lucy

3

Catch Me if You Can Play a game of catch outside or take a spin around the yard to catch one another in a game of freeze tag! The game doesn’t matter, it’s all about fun and movement. Want to go the extra mile? Who ever gets tagged has to list 3 amazing qualities about Dad!

4

H

ere are 5 ideas for a memorable holiday that include all the right ingredients: good food, good fun, exercise, the great outdoors, some laughs and tons of love.

1

Cards and Crafts There’s no need to get to the store when you have supplies at home!

Have everyone in the family make Dad a card or poster from scratch. Have fun with it and get creative! Draw pictures, cut out words from old Kiddos magazines and paste them on, or make handprints with paint. Write him a meaningful note about how much you love him. When you’re done, hide the card or poster

Got Sun? If the weather is nice, enjoy a dip in the pool together as a family. Play some classic games like Marco Polo or volleyball. No pool? No problem! Get creative with ways to cool off like running through the sprinkler or using the hose. someplace he won’t find it until you’re ready to present it to him.

2

Awesome Sides Nothing goes better with grilling than some delicious sides! Invite the kids to help you cook (and freshen up on their at-home math and science skills by measuring and mixing ingredients).

We love the idea of homemade mac and cheese! Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add 1 (8 ounce) box of elbow macaroni into the boiling water, stirring occasionally until cooked through but firm, around 8 minutes.

Drain. Melt ¼ cup butter in a saucepan over medium heat; stir in ¼ cup all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon salt, and ground black pepper to taste until smooth, about 5 minutes. Slowly pour 2 cups milk into the butter-flour mixture while continuously stirring until it’s smooth and bubbling, about 5 minutes. Add 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese to milk mixture and stir until cheese is melted, 2 to 4 minutes. Fold macaroni into cheese sauce until coated.

And voila, the perfect homemade mac and cheese to go with any barbecue or Dad’s favorite dish for his special day!

5

Camping Chez Le Père (at Dad’s) Enjoy a beautiful family staycation in the comfort of your own yard! Pitch the tent, light the bonfire and roast up some marshmallows for s’mores. Share your favorite memories about Dad around the fireplace, or name the top 3 reasons you really love and appreciate him. Bring out the cards everyone made, or poster, and present them to him to close out the evening. For extra mood-boosting, string some lights around the yard or decorate!

You don’t need a fancy restaurant or outing to show Dad just how much you love and appreciate him. A simple but thoughtful day spent home with the family is the best gift you can give him for Father’s Day. k

Camille Lucy is a Certified Holistic Health Coach/Reiki & Raindrop Technique Practitioner/Meditation & Yoga Instructor, Ordained Holistic Minister, graphic and web designer, business consultant, and animal rescue volunteer/advocate.

She is also a writer, a Mother of 3 girls, an artist, a Life-and-Love Junkie, a Self-Expression and Development advocate, and - well, you get the point - she’s a lot of things, just like all of us. Camille is also author of, "The (Real) Love Experiment: Explore Love, Relationships & The Self," and owner of the inspirational clothing line, LIT Gear, at www.LetsAllGetLit.com. Learn more about her and her adventure(s) at www.CamilleLucy.com. it’s just about kids | kiddosmagazine.com

25

art

Art Projects From Toddlers To Teenagers How are kids and teens cooping with COVID-19?

English summer reading. I find that it is easiest to cope with life in quarantine if you fill your day with meaningful activities that are a reprieve from everything going on in the world right now.

Did you communicate with your friends when sheltering in place?

Yes, I have! I have a couple of friends that I talk to daily or weekly, but I have a handful of other friends that I make sure to reach out to every few weeks. It warms my heart to see their responses; it’s clear that they appreciate me reaching out to them, because they are facing the same struggles we all are right now: loneliness, fear, uncertainty… I think that they feel comfort knowing that there are people who care for them because it is easy to forget that when you’re secluded from friends and loved ones. So I encourage kids and adults alike to reach out to some friends, even if they may not be close to them, because everyone is experiencing highly unusual circumstances and may benefit from knowing that someone is thinking about them.

P

arenting during Covid-19 pandemic has been tough, as we are trying to figure it out on how to fill every day without the exposure of video games, cartoons, apps, TikTok, etc, you name it! For many kids and teens art has been part of de-strees, and being at home has inspired many to make art pieces and reveal how they are dealing and navigating these uncertain times.

Ahead, see the art that Alexis Hartog (16), a high school student from TERRA Environmental Research Institute have made since the beginning of the pandemic, and her Q&A with Kiddos Magazine.

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kiddos | June • July 2020

Alexis, how have you been coping with life during this pandemic?

The way I have learned to cope with life during this pandemic is by creating schedule of things to do to keep myself occupied. Early in quarantine, I remember that the days would blur together as I would watch TV and not leave my room very much for entire days. I was soon bored of having nothing to do, so I set up a checklist for myself in which I wrote all of the things I wanted to complete. For example, today, I rode my bike, started sketching a new painting, played a game with my friends, watched some chemistry videos, and started my

When did you started painting?

I started painting in 8th grade. Before this, I remember thinking that painting was for older individuals, especially the style of classical painting that I do. But, in preparation for an audition to an art high school (Design and Architecture Senior High), I was taught how to paint by an amazing teacher. While I did not end up attending the school, I learned a lot in the time I spent preparing.

What is your favorite painter and why?

That’s difficult! I love the well-known masters like Vincent Van Gogh and Claude Monet, because both have a similar Impressionistic style to me that I may have subconsciously borrowed from them. However, I think my favorite painter is the teacher I mentioned above. His use of color really influenced my elaborate color palette and he has

taught me so much both about art and about the art business.

What would be your advice for kids and teens to do this summer?

My advice for kids and teens is to reach out to friends and loved ones, and help their local community in any way they can. Kids and teens may want to enjoy their summer by going to the park or the beach with a lot of friends, but messaging them and remaining in contact with them over the phone is much safer and will end this quarantine much quicker. I’ve heard many kids say that they (surprisingly) miss going to school and seeing friends, so if they want to return to school next year, I highly suggest they social distance!

Also, this is for teens especially, now is a great time to research ways to help local charities and other organizations that are helping those in need at this time! And if you have an idea to help others that doesn’t exist yet, take it upon yourself to create your own.

You can support 1 of the 5 Alexis' favorites non-profit organizations when you buy a print painting! All the organizations that Alexis support are local and national established foundations with one similar goal, improve the lives of underprivileged children. Alexis explain, "90% of the proceeds will go to the charity of your choice, while the remaining 10% comes back to me to buy more art supplies and cover shipping cost". To buy Alexis art visit her IG account @sunflower.art_ The Power of Art Art is a powerful tool, and we can learn a lot from our kids, create a special spot in your home, especially for younger kids, where they can let their imagination run

and make art. Supply them with markers, crayons, old magazines, and reorganize items you already have, they can make beautiful pieces with a few elements.

Also, you can engage with your children in your backyard or closer park and give them time to collect materials to explore new kinds of art. k

it’s just about kids | kiddosmagazine.com

27

community

STARS Global Preparatory Pre-Kindergarten Through Grade Eight Source: STARS

"Our school focuses on teaching students in a smaller classroom setting, so it is the perfect opportunity to ensure that your child receives individualized attention in a safe environment"

D

oes your child need a little fun this summer?

STARS Global Preparatory, Miami’s newest non-profit private school, opens their doors in August 2020. As a way of introducing students to the campus, parents may register their child for CAMP STARS this summer. After months of quarantine, this 7-week camp will surely keep your kiddos happy while making new friends. The camp will run from June 15th to July 27th with a registration deadline of June 10th. Since our highest priority is the health of campers and staff, we’re implementing new safety procedures as

28

kiddos | June • July 2020

outlined by the CDC Camp Operations Guide for Summer 2020, including small group sizes and onsite field trips.

STARS Global Preparatory will be offering a broad and balanced curriculum with reasonable choices of subject combinations to cater to students’ learning needs, interests, and academic level.

Our school is currently accepting students from Pre-K to 8th grade who wish to pursue a rigorous general education curriculum with an emphasis on servicelearning. Our school focuses on teaching students in a smaller

The vision of STARS Global Preparatory is to develop all students academically and personally while leading and serving people from different backgrounds and learning styles. The school will prepare students for real-life problem solving by instilling a different understanding of today’s global environment and engaging in communitydriven service projects throughout the school year.

classroom setting, so it is the perfect opportunity to ensure that your child receives individualized attention in a safe environment. To provide peace of mind to parents, STARS Global Preparatory administrators will continue to implement safety and health protocols recommended by the CDC as a precautionary measure.

The school will offer parents different programs as part of the school’s framework. Our highly specialized programs include S.T.A.R.S. Autism Learning Program, Student Academic Support Services, Early Childhood Learning Program, Robotics Program, Dance Program, Art Program, and the Athletic Program.

STARS Global Preparatory accepts Florida Tax Credit, Gardiner, Hope and Mckay Scholarships.

We’re excited to embark on this new journey with your family, and we look forward to welcoming you to our campus! k

To enroll your child for this summer’s Camp STARS, please call 305.846.9346 or email Eglee Nuñez-Sancristobal at enunez@starsglobalprep.org.

Parents who wish to enroll their child at STARS Global Preparatory for the upcoming school year, visit www.starsglobalprep.org and click on the prospective parent link.

Once the application process is complete, parents will be contacted by an administrator to schedule an Open House appointment or a virtual Zoom School Tour.

it’s just about kids | kiddosmagazine.com

29

kiddos

book reviews Suggestions For Kids And Families To Read This Month 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

1. I am Walt Disney

By Brad Meltzer This friendly, fun biography series focuses on the traits that made our heroes great--the traits that kids can aspire to in order to live heroically themselves. Each book tells the story of one of America's icons in a lively, conversational way that works well for the youngest nonfiction readers and that always includes the hero's childhood influences. At the back are an excellent timeline and photos.

This volume features Walt Disney, who makes dreams come true for himself and countless kids around the world. Ages 5 to 8. www.ordinarypeoplechangetheworld. com

2. The Pathfinders Society

By Francesco Sedita & Prescott Seraydarian In this lively, clever debut graphic novel sure to appeal to fans of the Last Kids on Earth, five kids are thrown together at summer camp, where they watch a grainy old movie about the history of their town, Windrose, and one of its illustrious citizens of a bygone era: the intrepid explorer-inventor Henry Merriweather.

Their journey that will take them back and forth through time, through woods, and across waterways revealed by moonlight, right up to the looming Moon Tower itself--which holds Merriweather's secret . . . and the treasure! Ages 8 to 12. www.penguinrandomhouse.com

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kiddos | June • July 2020

3. Boken The Dog: It's All About Me

6. Crocodiles Need Kisses Too

By Mum In Spring 2020 a friendly new canine face has been launched into the children’s leisure and entertainment market Worldwide. Boken is a funloving real-life miniature Schnauzer who lives in Spain with his mum Sara Mastriforte and dad Neil Egerton.

Boken’s stories are all based on Boken’s life in Spain and the real-life adventures that Sara and Neil have enjoyed with Boken in England, Ireland and across Spain. Ages 5 to 9. www.bokenthedog.com

By Rebecca Colby Fun-to-read-aloud, rhyming text describes prickly porcupines, roaring tigers, and slithery snakes-not the most cuddly creatures, but still worthy of hugs and snuggles from their mamas! With a luscious and colorful palette, Crocodiles Need Kisses Too shows that animals (and children) don't have to be warm and fuzzy to be totally lovable. Ages 2 to 5 www.penguinrandomhouse.com

4. Wink

By Andrea Skromovas What would you do if you found a shooting star on the floor of your backyard? This book tells the story of a little girl who finds one and together they show that with imagination, determination and perseverance everything is possible!

The result is a captivating story with a surprising and enchanting ending!

A book that talks about persevering, believing in your dreams and never giving up. Ages 3 to 9.

IG @andreaskromovas

By Rob Harrel A hilarious and heartwrenching story about surviving middle school--and an unthinkable diagnosis--while embracing life's weirdness. Ross Maloy just wants to be a normal seventh grader. He doesn't want to lose his hair, or wear a weird hat, or deal with the disappearing friends who don't know what to say to "the cancer kid." But with his recent diagnosis of a rare eye cancer, blending in is off the table. Ages 9 to 12. www.penguinrandomhouse.com

5. I Don't Want to Wash My Hands!

By Tony Ross From beloved children's author and illustrator Tony Ross, comes a fun to read and humorous take on the importance of handwashing. Ages 2 to 5. www.penguinrandomhouse.com

7. The Shooting Star

8. The Gifts You Cannot Buy

By Andrea Skromovas Are there gifts you can’t buy?

What is their value? The Gifts You Cannot Buy is a children’s book written in poetry form that explores those questions. Some gifts are so powerful, they are priceless.

This beautiful and inspiring book

helps readers of all ages reflect on some of the most important things in life: people, friendship, time, nature, faith, love and hope. Ages 3 to 9.

IG @andreaskromova

9. The Seed of Compassion

By His Holiness the Dalai Lama Nobel Peace Prize Laureate His Holiness the Dalai Lama shares lessons of peace and compassion, told through stories of his own childhood. With simple, powerful text, the Dalai Lama shares the universal teachings of treating one another with compassion, through everyday moments from his childhood. In an increasingly confusing world, this book offers guidance and encouragement on how we all might bring more kindness to it. Ages 4 to 8. www.penguinrandomhouse.com k

9

B A R G E FRE S L A E M & GO ! s n e e T d n for Kids a

Summer BreakSpot provides FREE, NUTRITIOUS meals to KIDS AND TEENS 18 AND UNDER while schools are closed.

Sites throughout Florida offer

BREAKFAST, LUNCH, SNACK OR DINNER.

TO FIND A LOCATION:Text "FLKIDSMEALS"

Dial 2-1-1 IDSMEALS” to 211-211 Text “FLK Dial 2-1-1mmerBreakSpot.FreshFromFlorida.com Visit Su to 211-211

shFromFlorida.com

Visit SummerBreakSpot.Fre

USDA Summer Food Service Program #FLBreakSpot This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

USDA Summer Food Service Program #FLBreakSpot |

it’s just about kids kiddosmagazine.com

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kiddos

destinations

Take Travel Online This Summer 5 ideas for a Virtual Family Summer Adventure Source: Vrbo

in real time via one of the many live cams positioned to spot wildlife from the comfort of your couch.

3

Walk the Great Wall of China.

Make your Great Wall goals a reality. Get a glimpse of this 300mile wonder of the world with a cyber stroll before dreaming up your own future family trip.

4

Watch big wave surfing in Maui.

Transport yourself to the beach as you watch white-knuckle surfing at its most surreal. Whether you’re a super fan or first-time spectator of the sport, it’s a compelling beach-cam watch and a welcome escape from the everyday.

A

dream vacation is the perfect antidote to stress and the monotony of daily life. When a getaway isn’t in the cards, you can still escape and explore new places virtually.

A virtual trip can be a great way to explore destinations you might consider for a future vacation, or it may be a chance to see remarkable sights around the world that you wouldn’t get to experience otherwise. Virtual travel can also engage kids in learning when you pair the experience with lessons on culture, geography or even a homemade take on local culinary treats.

Add authenticity to the experience with special touches that mimic the ambiance.

If you’re visiting the beach, kick up the

5 heat and turn on a fan for some breeze.

Light a coconut-scented candle and enjoy a bowl of ice cream while you take in the sights.

Travel 352 million miles to Mars.

Feel a world away as you explore Mars from aboard NASA’s Curiosity Rover. Learn as you roam between its different mission sites for a virtual, yet realistic, view of the Red Planet’s remarkable landscape. k

Get your virtual adventures underway with these selections from the travel experts:

1

Look around the Louvre in Paris.

Explore the Egyptian Antiquities, remains of the Louvre’s Moat and Galerie d’Apollon by virtual museum tour as you head inside this iconic art lover’s institution.

2

Sneak inside the San Diego Zoo. Get up close and personal with the resident apes, penguins, pandas, giraffes, elephants and tigers

For families who miss traveling together, you can share the joys of your virtual journey through videoconferencing and adding some extra ambiance and a change of scenery by downloading a travel wallpaper for your meeting background.

If the virtual destinations inspire you to visit in person someday, use resources like Vrbo's Trip Boards to create a list of places to stay as soon as you can get away, and keep the dream going by sending the link to family members and asking them to vote and comment on their favorites.

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kiddos | June • July 2020

kiddos

education

Empty Rooms

T

by Dr. Gemma Carrillo

he news on CoronaVirus these days continues. The numbers of people impacted by the virus continues.

Our community is in a moment of great tension even though, non-essential services are returning to normalcy.

Our schools have just ended the school year behind closed doors. Students have been studying from home with the help of the internet. The English Center has also been forced to close its doors.

Our teachers have continued to support all students with online instruction.

Our students need to learn and acquire knowledge that is essential for them to have the basic skills to help their families.

We are now registering students face to face taking all the necessary precautions.

Our adult education centers are slated to finish on July 28, 2020. We will

continue teaching online through distance learning. Our teachers are committed to continue instructing our students. We are making sure that everyone that registers in our courses can obtain learning, skills and preparation for their future. As of now, we do not know what are the plans for fall 2020.

At The English Center, we will continue to help students achieve their goals of a better future with the use of

technology. You can learn English or prepare for a short career, thereby achieving your American dream as quickly as possible. At this time, the building is open to the public while maintaining the social distancing which is necessary to make sure that everyone is protected and healthy. k

The English Center is located at 3501 S.W. 28th St. Miami, Fl 33133. For more information about programs offered call 305.445.7731. or visit www.tecmiami.net.

Our classrooms might be empty, but our minds are full of knowledge and we are ready to provide it to our students. Come and take advantage of this opportunity. Remember “There is more than English at The English Center.”

Celebrate Dad this

Father’s Day

VIRTUAL CLASSES

Browse curated gifts from PAMM Shop h THEATRE DANCE wit BROADWAY CHARLIE SUTTON VETERAN

it’s just about kids | kiddosmagazine.com

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kiddos

celebrations

Graduation And Father's Day Celebrations Party City at-home celebrations ideas made easy!

With graduation ceremonies across Miami-Dade and Broward County, South Florida have been made virtual and/or pushed to mid-late summer, families have been left brainstorming ways to celebrate the Class of 2020’s achievements in lieu of the traditional pomp and circumstance.

The experts at Party City are here to make it easy to mark the milestone and bring the party right to their graduate’s doorstep and for the biggest Kid in the House: Dad!

Graduations

Grade-A Graduation Balloons: Using school color balloons, balloon bouquets and easy balloon column kits is a simple and fun way to deck out your home from centerpieces to backdrops to party decorations.

Commencement in a Box: Graduation postponed? Throw your own! Party City’s new Adventure in a Box curated activity boxes allow grads to walk their very own stage in front of family and loved ones virtually with an At-Home Commencement Ceremony in a Box.

Create Your Own Photo Opp: No cap or gown? No worries! Party City has a cap, gown, and Inflatable Diploma so Mom can still get all the photos to capture the milestone!

Father’s Day

For the Biggest Kid in the House: Honor deserving dads with balloons and decorations from a giant dad balloon to a variety of colorful Happy Father’s Day balloons. Use alone or mix and match with latex balloons to create a memorable bouquet.

Note Your Appreciation: Tell dad all the reasons why he’s the best with notes tied to balloon strings or have a Superhero Balloon say it all.

Gifts for the Grill Master: A must-have for summer barbecues, the king of the grill will get cookin’ with a Grillmaster Apron, BBQ Sign, and BBQ Serving Tray. k

Party City continues to monitor local guidelines, select stores in South Florida are now offering same-day delivery and/or curbside pickup, in addition most South Florida locations have opened their doors! Please check stores and business hours online at stores.partycity.com.

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kiddos | June • July 2020

NOW MORE THAN EVER, YOUR CHILD DESERVES A

HEAD START

THAT’S WHY WE’RE TAKING

APPLICATIONS ONLINE Free high-quality educational program for income eligible children ages birth to 5, including children with disabilities.

EARLY HEAD START Children newborn to 3 years of age and pregnant women.

HEAD START Children 3 to 4 years old by September 1st.

To learn more, call 786-469-4622,

HeadStartInfo@miamidade.gov or visit miamidade.gov/HeadStart

email

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