Kiddos Magazine Vol. 4 Issue 3 - Sparkling Memories

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...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just about kids

magazine

contents Vol. 4 issue 3

in every issue

FEATURE 8 |

Teaching Children Generosity Getting & Giving During the Holidays

HEALTH 10 |

Advocate for Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Eye Care

11 TIPS Easy Ways to Add Veggies to Everyday Meals 12 WINTER Keeping Kids Active in Cooler Temperatures

PARENTING 16 |

Coping With Aggression and Teaching Self-Control

FAMILY 18 |

Making it Through the Holidays as a Divorced Parent

SPORTS 26 |

Combatting Concussions in Youth Sports

15 CRAFT Holiday Crafting 20 SNACKS Edible Snowflakes 22 PLACES The Resort at Longboat Key Club 24 COOL STUFF Holiday Essentials

COMMUNITY 28 |

2016 Public Space Challenge Winning Ideas Address Youth Violence Through Activated community Parks

30 BOOK REVIEWS Suggestions For Your Kids To Read This Month

31 MOVIE REVIEWS What Is New In Theaters

32 FAMILY EVENTS

on the cover

Where To Go With Our Kiddos

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HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

credits ...it’s just about kids

Kiddos Publisher’s Notes

Sparkling memories!

magazine

PUBLISHER/ EDITOR

Veronica Lepere CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Bright Horizons Vision Impact Institute Let’s Play Initiative ZERO TO TRHREE Elise McVeigh Little Chef’s Kitchen Books & Books NSCAA Dr. Stephanie O’Leary

Gratitude! No matter how you celebrate the holidays, let’s all make sure to keep this word in our treasure box throughout the season and during the whole year in our relationship with others.

DESIGN

Teaching Children Generosity, getting and giving during the Holidays brings more in depth tips on how we can teach our children to moderate their wants, be thankful for what they have and give to others.

As a divorced parent I know how stressful and frustrating the Holidays can be, Making it through the Holidays suggest a different perspective of how this season should be for all of us.

There are tons of Holiday events!

Check out our event’s guide and enjoy unlimited family time with your kiddos.

Kiddos Creative Department Graceleen Garcia ADVERTISING SALES & MARKETING

We truly appreciate the work of all the featured organizations and individuals; their commitment with our community is an incredible blessing. They inspire others and show compassion towards all those in need. Remember to give back this season and throughout the year.

Veronica Lepere vlepere@kiddosmagazine.com DISTRIBUTION AND CIRCULATION

Smart Distribution Services KIDDOS MAGAZINE P.O. Box 431492 Miami, Fl. 33243 786.260.8492 info@kiddosmagazine.com

Let’s get ready for “the most wonderful time of the year” Happy Holidays!

kiddosmagazine.com @KiddosMagazine @KiddosMagazine @Kiddosmagazine Kiddos Magazine is produced by

V&L Design LLC © 2016 Kiddos Magazine VERONICA LEPERE Publisher vlepere@kiddosmagazine.com

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kiddos | December 2016 • January 2017

Volume 4. Issue 3. Kiddos Magazine is published bi-monthly in the U.S.A. by V&L Design LLC. All content copyright © 2016 V&L Design LLC. All rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Publisher is not responsible for claims and content of advertisements.

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Teaching Children Generosity

Getting & Giving During the Holidays WRITTEN BY: Bright Horizons

“W

hat I found with more affluent families is that they were spending so much time and energy trying to provide the goods, and the good life for their children, they often neglected the effort to bring out the goodness in children.”

-Robert Coles, The Moral Intelligence of Children (Random House, 1997)

As parents, it’s natural for us to want to give our children the things we didn’t have. And in today’s world, it’s often easy to confuse the wants of our children with their actual needs.

Often we respond to every “I want” because we can and it makes us feel good, not necessarily because we should. Especially during the holidays, many of us tend to give generously to our children even those of us who typically practice moderation.

There are an infinite numbers of toys, games, and treats in today’s

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kiddos | December 2016 • January 2017

world. And no matter how much our children have, they will always want more, and there will always be a friend who has more. How can we change this mindset and raise caring and giving children that know the importance of giving rather than getting? How do we avoid over spoiling our kids during the holidays?

Here are some tips on how we can teach our children to moderate their wants, be thankful for what they have, and give to others.

Tips to Minimize Spoiling Your Children during the Holiday Season One way to help children understand the importance of giving and gratitude during the holiday season is to teach them about moderation whenever possible.

• Even though you may be able to afford gifts for children, try not to get in the habit of buying your child something every time you go in a store, even if it is just gum or candy they want.

• When you are shopping and allow your child to buy something, avoid giving your child too many choices.

When you go to a store, try letting your child make a selection just from the book aisle or the arts and crafts area.

• Actively teach your children as they mature that media advertising is trying to shape our thinking to want more and more.

• Make quality family time the major holiday goal that children look forward to, even in shopping expeditions. For example, adding

least 5 years. A stretch? Maybe. But if you and your child shovel the snow from your elderly neighbor’s sidewalk this winter, you may be doing yourself, your child, and your neighbor a favor.

We can start with the very small and teach our children about giving to others in need. Young children can learn to give back during the holiday season by giving a kind word, offering a smile, sharing a toy, drawing a picture, writing or dictating a note, or comforting a friend or family member. And as they grow, so will their generosity.

Here are some additional family giving ideas for helping and giving to others that you can do with your child during the holiday season and at any time of the year:

breakfast or lunch at a restaurant to your shopping trip can become its own cherished tradition.

• Moderate the shopping goals to the energy and developmental level of your child. Encourage your child to give to a child in need through Toys for Tots or other similar programs, and include that in the shopping goals.

• Encourage grandparents to show some restraint, perhaps giving gifts of time or piggy-bank savings.

• As a family, model restraint and sharing with the less fortunate

• Collect clothing or personal items and donate them to a local shelter for the homeless.

• Make favors, scrapbooks, napkin rings, or crafts for a special occasion to donate to a local children’s hospital.

• “Adopt” a senior citizen and help him or her with necessary chores or visit an elder care home.

• Plan or cooperate with existing paper drives or other recycling endeavors.

• Collect food for local food banks.

• Make greeting cards for people in a veteran’s hospital or other health care facilities.

through local programs to aid the impoverished and homeless here and in other countries. If you don’t have a favorite charitable organization, consider The Bright Horizons Foundation for Children.

The Bright Spaces program creates play spaces for children who live in homeless shelters.

Teaching Kids to Give Back during the Holidays “It’s better to give than to receive” is an old adage that we’ve all heard. A study by the American Psychological Association suggests that giving to others increases life expectancy by at

• “Adopt” a service person stationed overseas, collect items and send them a gift box.

• Make toys, games, or crafts for a child care center or pediatric unit of a hospital.

It’s a lot easier to write about swimming upstream in the material world than living those words. Teaching valuable lessons like the importance of giving and helping others is a difficult task for all parents, so we ought to do what we can and celebrate that, not beat ourselves up because there is so much more that we could be doing. k

For more information about Bright Horizons visit brighthorizons.com.

it’s just about kids | kiddosmagazine.com

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health

Advocate for Kids’ Eye Care SOURCE: Vision Impact Institute

“One eye exam could change your child’s academic future forever.”

S

tudies repeatedly emphasize the importance of diagnosing vision problems at an early age, but that’s something many parents assume is being covered by their children’s school system. In reality, an estimated one in four American school-age children have vision problems that – if untreated – can affect learning ability, personality and behavioral developments, adjustment in school and, ultimately, could lead to blindness.

While it’s true that schools may provide vision screenings for younger children, one study found that even if a child failed such an exam, 50 percent of parents were unaware of the failure two months after the screening.

Furthermore, these screenings do not adequately test for prevalent vision disorders such as amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (crossed eyes) or significant refractive error.

These disorders can, if left untreated, have an economic impact, too – children’s vision disorders cost an estimated $10 billion annually in the United States alone. These issues can be addressed early on if eye care professionals give children comprehensive eye examinations, and the sooner they’re identified, the better.

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kiddos | December 2016 • January 2017

Photography: Getty Images

A recent study from The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine evaluated the status of vision in the U.S. health care system and recommended comprehensive eye exams as the “gold standard” in identifying potential vision disorders for children before they enter school – even though this is something only three states currently require of their school systems. What’s more, research has shown that of children in the 9-to-15 age group, only 10 percent who needed eyeglasses actually had them.

Through the Kids See: Success initiative, a partnership of the Vision Impact Institute, Optometry Giving Sight and VSP Vision Care, experts in the eye care field are working to educate parents, legislators, child advocacy groups, school nurses, teachers and administrators about the social, educational and future economic benefits of comprehensive eye exams for children prior to entering kindergarten.

Regardless of whether your local schools require eye exams before entry into kindergarten, your child and children you know deserve to start school with a baseline for

academic success. One eye exam could change your child’s academic future forever. In the meantime, watch for these signs that your child may benefit from glasses and schedule an eye exam promptly: • Squinting is a classic symptom of either nearsightedness (not seeing well far away) or farsightedness (not seeing well up close).

• Closing one eye to see better could indicate a structural problem like astigmatism.

• Eye rubbing may be the result of eye strain.

• Sitting too close to the television or lowering the head while reading a book are signs of nearsightedness.

• Losing place while reading due to skipping lines may mean there is an eye muscle problem or vision problem, such as astigmatism.

• Frequent headaches or brow aches are often a result of uncorrected farsightedness. k

Find more information about the importance of early eye exams for children at visionimpactinstitute.org.

kiddos

tips

to Everyday Meals

E

veryone can agree that eating your vegetables is important.

Yet only about 4 percent of Americans eat the recommended amount of veggies each day.

Good eating habits start early Through partnerships with organizations, such as Environmental Media Association, Birds Eye educates children on ways to enjoy vegetables.

The current school garden program brings celebrities, like Lance Bass, back to their hometowns to plant vegetable gardens and talk to students about the importance of veggies, agriculture and healthy eating, while allowing them to understand and connect with their environment.

Healthy, inside and out Because vegetables provide valuable disease-fighting benefits, including

reducing the risk of heart disease, obesity and Type 2 diabetes while lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, decreasing bone loss and protecting against certain cancers, the USDA recommends that Americans fill half their plates with fruits and vegetables.

4. Buying frozen vegetables means less prep work, making it easier to include veggies – even on a busy day.

5. Try replacing carbs with vegetables – mix some broccoli into your mashed potatoes or replace some of your pasta with veggies.

Here are some easy tips for adding veggies to each day:

Green is good Not only are vegetables good for the body, they’re good for the world.

When people fill more of their plates with vegetables, farmers can feed more people using less land, water and energy. Additionally, fewer chemicals are needed and fewer greenhouse gasses are released. k

1. Mixing vegetables into eggs is a great way to start the day.

2. Mix it up with flavored vegetables.

Birds Eye offers more than 40 vegetable varieties, with something that appeals to almost everyone.

3. Sit down for dinner together as a family. Family meals are more likely to contain healthy foods and have the added benefit of reconnecting with loved ones.

For more information, visit birdseye. com/birds-eye-view.

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kiddos

winter

Keeping Kids Active in Cooler Temperatures s the weather gets colder, it can be harder to motivate kids to step away from their computers and devices and get off the couch. However, it’s essential for kids to participate in active play all year round. According to research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, regular physical activity helps build and maintain healthy bones and muscles, promotes psychological well-being and reduces feelings of depression and anxiety.

Sadly, physical activity is becoming less of a priority in kids’ daily routines. A recent survey conducted

by Let’s Play, an initiative from Dr Pepper Snapple Group to make active play a daily priority, found that 64 percent of parents said busy schedules stand in the way of more active play for their children, up from 56 percent in 2015.

Each season brings its own opportunities for play, and fall is no exception. Families can beat the cold weather blues and stay active together by trying some of the following activities: Plan a nature walk to find inspiration and materials for art.

Even though it’s chilly outside, your

items or create some friendly family competition to see who can find all the items first. Having the family move around the house with a mission prevents the temptation of staying on the couch in front of the television all day.

family can still get out and enjoy the outdoors. Bundle up and take a nature hike with your kids around the neighborhood or at a local, national or state park. Encourage your kids to collect items like pinecones, acorns and leaves as you go and to be on the lookout for wildlife to observe. After the hike, take out art and craft supplies and help them create projects with the items they found.

Plan an indoor scavenger hunt.

When a really cold day comes along, send your kids on a fun and active scavenger hunt around the house, searching for items that you can hide in advance. Work together as a family to locate the

Join a class or indoor sports team.

Whether you are playing a favorite sport or learning a new one, it is always more fun with other people.

Longer stretches of active play are often more likely to occur with friends or siblings. Sign your children up for an indoor sport or class they have never tried before, such as gymnastics, rock climbing, swimming or dance. This allows your children to learn something new, meet kids their age and be active for an extended period of time.

Volunteer. While giving back is always in season, this time of year is a perfect opportunity to teach kids about giving back to those in need and being grateful for what they have. Sign the whole family up to volunteer at a local soup kitchen, participate in a toy drive for a children’s hospital or help out at an animal rescue shelter. Your children will not only be active, but will also grow emotionally, socially and intellectually as a result. k

For more tips on how to keep kids active and to find play inspiration for all seasons, visit LetsPlay.com.

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kiddos | December 2016 • January 2017

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kiddos

traditions

How to Teach your Children to Politely Receive Gifts I teach children’s manner’s classes, and tell kids the only response you need when opening a gift is “Thank you.” I role-play with each child by presenting him with a gift, and give him/her one of these three circumstances. Try role-playing this with your child, and explain that you want the gift giver to feel appreciated.

lot of parents hold their breath every time their child opens a gift. They live in fear that their child will give one of three responses when opening a gift. They are: “I already have this”; “I do not like this”; or “I wanted something else.”

A letter

After your child receives a gift, the next step is to write a thank you note. Make it fun for him by getting stationary with his name, or a fun design. When my children were very young, I would write out the note for them on scrap paper, and then let them copy it onto the stationary.

Writing notes for a child is not only a way to express gratitude, but a good

life long habit that will serve your child well as an adult.

Elise McVeigh is a writer and Lifestyle/ Parenting expert. She wrote a weekly manner’s column for 10 years in the Dallas Morning News, and has been a regular contributor to parenting magazines all around the country.

She has a new line of colorful and fun books that compliment her manner’s curriculum and videos, based on the entertaining Professor Maynard (pronounced mannered). k The five titles are available in paperback or E-books on Amazon, and at MrsMcVeighsManners.com.

...it’s just about kids

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kiddos | December 2016 • January 2017

kiddos

craft

Holiday Crafting Be Inspired by Traditions From Around the World

B

ring the joy and celebration of holiday traditions from around the world to your home this season. Nurture your child creative spirit with these fun ideas and spend an amazing bonding time together!

It’s an Irish tradition to place lit candles in windows. Glass containers with hand-painted designs and flameless candles look welcoming in windows or on a table.

Hand-Painted Holiday Luminaries Skill Level: No experience necessary Crafting Time: 1 to 2 hours Supplies and Tools: Black marker White computer paper Computer and printer Provided templates Scissors Square and rectangular

glass containers Tape Enamel paint: red, green and white Flat brush Detail brush Flameless or wax candles Create templates using a black marker to draw snowflakes and other decorative holiday motifs on paper. Cut the templates to fit inside the desired glass containers. Tape templates securely to the inside of glass container with design facing out. This will act as a guide when painting. Using enamel paint colors, paint over template designs on glass surface. Create snowflakes, trees, words, deer, etc. It may take several coats of paint to attain desired coverage. Let paint dry between coats.

When finished, let the painted design dry completely. k

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For more crafting inspiration, project guides and supplies, visit www.joann.com

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parenting

Coping With Aggression and Teaching Self-Control SOURCE: ZERO TO THREE

Help your young child begin to develop self-control and rely less on aggressive behaviors to communicate needs and feelings.

lthough babies sometimes do things that appear and feel aggressive (like grab our hair), they do not yet have the thinking skills to act hurtfully on purpose. So if your 6-monthold bites you on the arm or your 12-month-old takes a whack at you, it is not because they are trying to “get you”. They are not yet able to control their feelings or use words to communicate their thoughts.

Over time, they learn right from wrong when you are clear and consistent with rules.

Starting at about 18 months, toddlers are learning that they are separate from their parents and are eager to act as independently as they can. But they have limited selfcontrol and have not yet learned to wait, share, and take turns. And while they are learning more words everyday, they still rely heavily on their actions to communicate. When they are angry, frustrated, tired, or overwhelmed, they may hit, push,

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kiddos | December 2016 • January 2017

slap, grab, kick, or bite to tell you, I’m mad! Or, I’m exhausted! Or, I’m over my limit and need a break.

First, Consider Your Family No two children or families are alike. Thinking about the following questions can help you apply the information below to your own child and family.

• What kinds of situations usually lead to your child acting aggressively? Why do you think this is?

• When your child acts in ways that seem aggressive, how do you typically react? Do you think this reaction is helpful to your child or not? Why? Respond in Age Appropriate Ways Help your young child begin to develop self-control and rely less on aggressive behaviors to communicate needs and feelings.

From Birth to 12 Months: Set the limit in a clear, firm voice (without anger). Then, redirect your

baby’s attention. If she’s pulling on your hair, hold out a toy instead. If she is playing with the TV remote, offer her a toy with buttons to push.

From 12 Months and On: When toddlers are aggressive, it usually means they are out of control and need help to calm down before any learning can take place.

The following strategies can help you help your child learn to manage her feelings and develop selfcontrol:

• Stay calm. The calmer you are, the more quickly your child will calm down.

• Recognize your child’s feeling or goal. Let your child know that you understand what he wants to do: You want to stay longer at the playground, and are mad we have to leave. It’s okay to be mad, but it is not okay to hit Mommy.

Hitting hurts.

• Use gestures along with your words to communicate with your toddler. Use a calm, firm (not

kiddos

fun

Find the match

angry) voice. At the same time, use a “stop” or “no-no” gesture. You might say, No hitting, hitting hurts, as you take his hand and hold it by his side, firmly but not angrily.

• Offer alternatives. Give your child acceptable ways to reach his goal. Instead of throwing balls in the house, offer your child a soft sponge ball to toss inside, or take him outside for “pitching” practice.

• Try a distraction. Ignore your child’s tantrum and, instead, do something she doesn’t expect: point to a bird outside, start to read a book she loves, or pick up an interesting toy and start to play with it. The bottom line is that young children want attention, and lots of it. When you ignore the tantrum, they tend to give it up much more quickly and accept one of the activities you are offering.

• Suggest ways to manage strong emotions.

When your child is really angry, suggest that he jump up and down, kick a ball, rip paper, cuddle with a teddy bear, or use some other strategy that you feel is appropriate. This teaches your child to express strong feelings in healthy, non-hurtful ways.

• Help your child take a break. Some children calm more quickly when they can be by themselves in a safe, quiet place. This is not punishment. It helps children learn to soothe themselves and regain control. When your child pulls herself together, tell her what a good job she did calming herself down. k ZERO TO THREE works to ensure all babies and toddlers benefit from the family and community connections critical to their well-being and development. Since 1977, the organization has advanced the proven power of nurturing relationships by transforming the science of early childhood into helpful resources, practical tools and responsive policies for millions of parents, professionals and policymakers.

For more information, please visit zerotothree.org it’s just about kids | kiddosmagazine.com

17

family

Making it Through the Holidays as a Divorced Parent WRITTEN: Elise McVeigh

THE DECEMBER HOLIDAYS ARE PAINTED AS HAPPY, MAGICAL, AND PERFECT. HOWEVER, FOR A LOT OF PEOPLE, THE HOLIDAYS ARE STRESSFUL AND FRUSTRATING – ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU ARE DIVORCED WITH CHILDREN.

H

ere are 10 Tips for Divorced Parents to make it through this Holiday Season.

Communication is Key – Communicating with an ex-spouse can be challenging, but you need to formulate a plan together. If needed, use electronic communication, or speak through one of his/her family members.

Compromise – Your ideal schedules typically do not mesh. It is hard to juggle holiday commitments even when married. Be willing to compromise, and hopefully your ex will follow suit.

Become a Great Negotiator – If your ex is being unreasonable with his/her expectations, be the bigger person. After you say yes with a cheerful voice, ask him to accommodate you.

Put it in Writing - To ensure that both parties are clear on the agenda for the holiday season, send a positive sounding email to your ex to reiterate what was discussed and agreed upon.

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kiddos | December 2016 • January 2017

Keep a Positive Attitude – If you act cheerful about the final plan, your children will have a more enjoyable holiday. If you fake a positive attitude, it could eventually turn into a real one.

It’s All About the Children – As bitter as you may be, focus on your children, and keep their happiness at the center.

Flexibility – Even the best plans can go wrong. This can include ill grandparents, travel glitches, or other logistical challenges. Try to be flexible in any situation.

Stay Calm – Being frustrated and getting upset is a guaranteed way to ruin your holiday. If things do not go your way during the planning, or in the hand-off of the kids, take deep breathes, and try to keep your cool.

Keep Bad Thoughts to Yourself – Even though you may want to really let your ex have it, refrain from doing so. Take a break from the situation until you can discuss it calmly.

Smile a Lot – Smiling when discussing your holiday plans with your children is a way to make them feel happy and secure about spending the holidays with divorced parents. You will also trick yourself into feeling happy. k Elise McVeigh is a writer and Lifestyle/ Parenting expert. She wrote a weekly manner’s column for 10 years in the Dallas Morning News, and has been a regular contributor to parenting magazines all around the country.

She has a new line of colorful and entertaining books that compliment her children’s manner’s curriculum and videos, based on the wacky Professor Maynard (pronounced mannered.) The five titles are available in paperback or E-books at MrsMcVeighsManners.com.

kiddos

news

New Children’s Play Area Underway at The Falls The Falls is pleased to announce the addition of a new children’s play area sponsored

by Jackson Health System which will open to the public this December.

T

he 1,344 sq. ft. play area is located between Gap and Williams-Sonoma, near Center Court.

Constructed of soft foam material, the play area features a variety of nature themed structures that allow children to play, climb and slide while parents enjoy a break from shopping underneath brightly colored shade sails.“We are very excited to announce Jackson Health as the sponsor of this valued amenity at The Falls,” said Carla De Maria, director of marketing and business development.

“The new children’s play area is just one way in which we have enhanced the shopping experience for our customers and their families at The Falls.”

“Jackson Health System is committed to the health and well-being of all MiamiDade County residents, and part of that commitment is being good community partners,” said Carlos A. Migoya, president and CEO of Jackson Health System. “We are excited to collaborate with The Falls – a neighbor of our

Jackson South Community Hospital to bring a fun and safe entertainment option to children at the mall.”

The play area is a free, outdoor activity center specially designed for children under 42” tall that is ADA compliant and includes colorful anti-bacterial play elements. The Falls play area is not only fun, but it also contributes to exercise and positive developmental growth in a safe environment. Slides and climbers promote social interaction and development, cognitive development and problem-solving skills. For parents, it serves as an entertainment stop for children while watching all the action from benches that surround the gated play area. k

For more information, visit simon.com

it’s just about kids | kiddosmagazine.com

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kiddos

snacks

Edible Snowflakes Every year my son asks me when it will snow in Miami...Since I can’t do magic, the next bestthing I can do is bake him some. This easy recipe takes you back to your kindergarten roots when we used to make paper snowflakes except this time we can actually EAT them.

Ingredients:

• Grab a wonton wrapper and fold it

- Wonton Wrappers - 1 Egg White - 1 tablespoon White Sugar - 1 tablespoon Confectioner Sugar plus extra for dusting - Pinch of salt - Drop of Vanilla extract - 1-2 tablespoons of melted butter

down the middle to form a rectangle.

Fold it carefully one more time to get a square.

• With a pair of food safe scissors or a plastic knife begin to make small cuts on the corners of the folded wonton wrapper. Examples are triangles, squares, hearts, fringe, etc. Keep it simple or get extra creative; each snowflake in nature is unique and so

Prep time: 15 minutes Baking Time: 8-10 minutes

• Have an adult pre heat the oven to 350F.

• In a bowl crack an egg and separate the egg whites from the yolks. For this recipe you will only need the egg whites • Whisk egg whites well and add 1 tbsp. of white sugar, 1 tbsp. confectioner sugar, pinch of salt and 1 drop of vanilla extract. Mix well and if any sugar clumps form try to mash them with the whisk until dissolved.

will yours. (Repeat process with as many wontons as you would like to make.)

• Carefully open up each snowflake…. don’t they look amazing!

• In a separate bowl, melt some butter and set aside.

• Use a pastry brush and brush both sides of your wonton with the melted butter and place on a cookie tray lined with parchment paper.

• Brush only one side of your snowflakes with the egg sugar mix.

• Have an adult help you place the tray in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes until a light golden brown.

• Let cool for a few minutes and dust with a little confectioner sugar to give that “just snowed” effect.

• Place on a plate for Santa, enjoy with your family and friends at your next holiday party, or hang with a string from your Christmas tree.

• Enjoy this little bit of magic that you can bring into your home this season! k

For more information please visit littlechefskitchen.com or contact us at info@littlechefskitchen.com

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kiddos | December 2016 • January 2017

BADIA SPICES’ FUN AND FIT AS A FAMILY FEATURING GOYA FOODS KIDZ KITCHEN Saturday & Sunday, February 25 & 26, 2017 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

This family-friendly event at the Festival allows parents and kids to learn the basics of a healthy lifestyle

(advance sales only, not including tax and service fee).

SPECIAL THANKS Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management

PRODUCED BY THE FOOD NETWORK & COOKING CHANNEL SOUTH BEACH WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL it’s just about kids | kiddosmagazine.com 21

kiddos

places

The Resort at Longboat Key Club Longboat Key, Fla.

Book your winter stay!

courses and 20 tennis courts making up the award-winning Tennis Gardens.

The perfect getaway for families of all sizes, guests have a ball on the stand-up paddle boards, boogie boards and kayaks where dolphin sightings happen on a regular basis.

S

ituated on the stunning beaches of Florida’s west coast on Longboat Key off the coast of Sarasota, The Resort at Longboat Key Club boasts your typical Florida amenities amped up a notch - or ten. Think 45 holes of PGAapproved, championship golf

22

kiddos | December 2016 • January 2017

Connecting with nature and wildlife is a major draw for families and during turtle season from around October to March, the resort allows kids and families to release baby turtles into the ocean (kids love naming their turtles before letting them go!). Plus, the resort’s suites are large enough to accommodate the whole family.

All suites come equipped with full kitchens, washers and dryers for laundry, and multi-bedroom suites are available for larger families.

Parents traveling to The Resort at Longboat Key Club don’t have to compromise a kid-pleasing vacation - this 410-acre golf & tennis resort is a playground for all. From ice cream socials and PJ parties to nature walks and drive-in movies on the golf greens with golf carts, Camp Loggerhead (named after the native sea turtles that nest right on the resort’s beach) provides a fun and captivating kids club where they can explore and create together through a variety of fun games and arts and crafts. Upon leaving, fellow Loggerheads can even take home a little Camp Loggerhead memory in the form of a plush turtle.

The camp is open every Tuesday through Saturday for children between 5 and 12 years old. k

For more information visit longboatkeyclub.com

DRAGONFLY IZAKAYA & FISH MARKEt BULLA GASTROBAR

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THE BALLET BOUTIQUE

THE UPS STORE

FREDDO

ROBEKS JUICE

GIARDINO GOURMET SALAD

AVO TACO

THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!

CASA GIO

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SAGE DENTAL

PASION DEL CIELO

THE SPOT BARBERSHOP

SKYROS SPORT

itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just about kids | kiddosmagazine.com

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kiddos

cool stuff Shape Mags

Holiday

fantastic magnetic fun

Essentials Finn + Emma

toddlers PJs

Shape Mags magnetic tile building sets offer hours of fun.

Little builders love creating castles, trains, bridges, rockets and much more. Shape Mags also enhance your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cognitive development. Available at shapemags.com

A.C Moore, Doll Line

penelope and friends

Let your toddler strut their stuff in Finn + Emma PJs. Sturdy and soft, they're made with buttery-soft organic cotton and feature adorable contemporary prints. Stylish through the winter nights or on a lazy Sunday. $34, sizes: 12M-4T. Available at finnandemma.com/collections/all/pajamas

Cookies by Design

not only santa deserves homemade cookies!

Penelope, Ava, Elena and Samantha are the ultimate girl squad, each smart, courageous and fun with their own style and personality. Give one or all four as a gift this year-- one unique, together complete.

Find them at A.C. MOORE stores near you.

Common Ground footwear

Gift for conversation starter

15% off any order over $60. Expires January 31st. Use discount code KIDDOS. Only available at the Fort Lauderdale location Available at cookiesbydesign.com

24

kiddos | December 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ January 2017

Designed to spark conversation, remind us of our common ground, and inspire steps, regardless of their size, that contribute to progress.

No matter the jorney, it startswith a single step.

Available at common-ground.com

Lorena Canals

snowflake rug

This eco friendly Lorena Canals machine washable rug features a geometric snowflake design to bring the winter wonderland theme indoors. Made from all natural, 100% cotton, using non toxic dyes.

Safe and healthy for even the youngest member of the family Available at lorenacanals.us

itsy Bitsy

cybex special edition cloud q & priam

Under Cover Waterwear

ladies and girls activewear

The holiday season It's here!. There will be parties, and events, parades and concerts… an array of things to keep everyone busy from morning to night.

Available at undercoverwaterwear.com

Amazing Toys of Marvin Glass: 1950’s to 1974

By Joyce Grant

t Ergonomic design with full-recline position outside of the car t Removable newborn inlay for premature and very small babies t 11-position height-adjustable headrest with integrated harness guides Available at itsybitsypalace.com

Whiffer Sniffers

the original whiffer sniffers ‘scentsation’ is here!

Whiffer Sniffers is spreading across the nation and kids can’t get enough!

Characters are available in collectable backpack clips, a huggable supersize plush, and nostalgic scratch n’ sniff stickers.

Available at whiffersniffers.com

Throwback enthusiasts will enjoy this walk on the colorful side of a 1960s and 1970s childhood.

Available at schifferbooks.com

Gold Toe socks

"socking-stuffers"

Kid Tested, Parent Approved: Gold Toe Kid Collections serve double duty, as they not only look fashionable but they also feature an EZ MATCH® sizing system — ideal for households with multiple children.

Available at goldtoe.com

it’s just about kids | kiddosmagazine.com

25

sports

Combatting Concussions in Youth Sports SOURCE: National Soccer Coaches Association of America

With athletes of all ages taking to fields and courts, there are important steps to take in keeping young athletes safe during practice and games.

D

ata from U.S. Youth Soccer shows that the number of kids playing increased nearly 90 percent – with nearly 3 million children ages 7-17 playing each year – from 1990 to 2014. As soccer has risen in popularity, so has the rate on injuries – especially concussions – according to a Nationwide Children’s Hospital study published recently in “Pediatrics.”

The number of youth treated in emergency rooms in the United States due to soccer-related injuries increased by 78 percent over the 25 years covered by the study. While concussions and other “closed-head” injuries accounted for just 7 percent of those injuries, the annual rate of those injuries per 10,000 children playing soccer increased drastically.

26

kiddos | December 2016 • January 2017

While the study’s authors from the hospital’s Center for Injury Research and Policy said some of the increase reflects the growing awareness about concussions, there are steps that can be taken to reduce exposure and increase overall player safety.

Know Concussion Signs Be aware of concussion symptoms and encourage players to report potential injuries. The first signs of a player potentially suffering from a serious head injury can include:

• Headache • Blurry vision • Nausea • Vomiting • Noise or light sensitivity

Utilize Available Educational Resources The National Soccer Coaches Association of America recently released the first interactive online course developed to educate soccer coaches on how to teach safer heading techniques. The free, 30-minute course titled “Get aHEAD Safely in Soccer,” which is available at NSCAA.com/heading, illustrates specific techniques, exercises and practice activities that are available for coaches to download or print.

For more tips to properly coach young athletes on the fundamentals of heading and other soccer skills, visit nscaa.com.

Practice Proper Technique The U.S Soccer Federation recently ruled that there should be no heading in games or practice for any players age 10 and under and a limited amount of heading for those ages 11-13. It is important that coaches know the correct techniques and have the right educational tools to properly train their players. The fundamental steps include: 1. Keeping feet shoulder-width apart and knees bent in an athletic position 2. Tucking the chin and maintaining a stiff neck 3. Using arms for balance (and to shield opponents) 4. Concentrating with eyes open andmouth closed 5. Focusing on striking the ball with the middle of the forehead Understand Return-to-Play Protocol Coaches and parents should encourage players to always report blows to the head and be vigilant in looking for athletes who may have sustained injuries. If a player does

“The number of youth treated in emergency rooms in the United States due to soccer-related injuries increased by 78 percent over the 25 years covered by the study.”

sustain a concussion, they should seek medical attention and work together with an athletic trainer on proper return-to-play protocol before returning to competition.

By instituting proper athletic safety measures at the youth level, coaches, parents and athletes can continue to enjoy the positive benefits of sports. k

For more information visit nscaa.com/heading.

Join us for a

Christmas Tree Lighting

By the Bay

Thursday, December 8

th

5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Fun for the whole family!

WATCH FOR MORE DETAILS. One of the most anticipated community events of the year!

South Shore by the Bay • 3663 South Miami Avenue, Miami • MercyMiami.com

it’s just about kids | kiddosmagazine.com

27

community

2016 Public Space Challenge Winning ideas address youth violence through activated community parks SOURCE: The Miami Foundation

As violence against youth makes headlines in Greater Miami, local communities continue pushing solutions that create safe spaces for the more than half-a-million young people living here.

S

tudies connecting parks to reduced crime rates have led major metro areas across the country, including Philadelphia, Providence and Austin to use green spaces as an opportunity for creating safe, community gathering places. Miamibased group Vecinos de Riverside Park wants to do the same in their Little Havana neighborhood by engaging residents to create a series of water activities for the park. “More than 13,000 youth and children live within one mile of Riverside Park. The numberone reason families say they don’t go to the park is because they don’t feel safe,” said Gus Barreiro, public policy and community engagement liaison for The Children’s Trust and a member of Vecinos. “Bringing positive activity to the park pushes out the negative, ultimately creating a safe space for kids, families and seniors to enjoy.”

The Riverside Park project is just one of 19 winning ideas from The Miami Foundation’s 2016 Public Space Challenge. Winning projects include similar efforts by public libraries in Hialeah and Allapattah. They’re partnering with residents and local businesses to develop safe community spaces with areas for exercising, learning and playing.

“Residents in Greater Miami recognize the power of parks and open spaces to shape our community,” said Javier Alberto Soto, president and CEO of The Miami Foundation. “The more than 1,400 ideas submitted to the Challenge in the last four years underscores this. Every Miamian deserves a wellmaintained park and gathering place within a 10-minute walk from home, whether for a pick-up game of soccer or a safe space to spend time after school.”

The Public Space Challenge is a platform for residents to create, improve and activate parks and public spaces in their neighborhoods. This year, individuals, organizations and public agencies throughout Miami-Dade County submitted more than 400 ideas, setting a new record for number of entries since the program began in 2012. In partnership with the Health Foundation of South Florida and the Office of Miami-Dade County Commissioner Juan C. Zapata, District 11, The Miami Foundation will invest $305,000 to help residents make the winning projects happen.

“Over four years of this partnership, we’ve witnessed tremendous growth in the number of creative ideas,” said Steve Marcus, president and CEO of Health Foundation of South Florida. “We are delighted to continue supporting public space projects that improve access to nutritious, healthy foods and physical activities.”

$305,000 awarded to 19 projects throughout Miami-Dade County

Bay Skate Miami, the first waterfront, outdoor skating experience, received a grant from The Miami Foundation as a Challenge winner Public Space

28

kiddos | December 2016 • January 2017

As part of the Public Space Challenge, Dara Schoenwald developed filtered water-bottle refill stations in Miami parks.

With support from Commissioner Zapata, West End residents submitted more entries than ever before, including three winning ideas to improve local transit and increase access to the arts. “I am very proud of all the great ideas for improving our public spaces,” Commissioner Zapata said. “The overwhelming response from our residents shows that the West End is a truly vibrant community.”

The winners have already begun creating project timelines and recruiting build-out teams. In addition to the funding, each group will receive technical assistance from The Miami Foundation to work with county and municipal offices in executing their projects. k

ABOUT THE MIAMI FOUNDATION: Established in 1967, The Miami Foundation uses civic leadership, community investment and philanthropy to improve the quality of life for everyone who calls Greater Miami home. We’ve partnered with individuals, families and corporations who have created more than 1,000 personalized, philanthropic Funds.

Thanks to them, we’ve awarded over $230 million in grants and currently manage $280 million in assets to build a better Miami. Learn more about the Foundation and the Our Miami Report, which informs our work, at miamifoundation.org and ourmiami.org.

To learn more about the Foundation and the Public Space Challenge, visit miamifoundation.org and ideas.ourmiami.org.

Javier Alberto Soto (The Miami Foundation, President and CEO); Vance Aloupis (Children’s Movement of Florida, CEO); James Haj (The Children’s Trust, President and CEO).

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Infinity Brickell - Business Tower 40 SW 13th Street - Suite 301 Miami, Florida 33130 it’s just about kids | kiddosmagazine.com

29

kiddos

Suggestions for your kids to read this month

1. Heartless (YA)

3. Foxheart (MG)

5. Hotel Bruce (PB)

By Heartless The author of the bestselling Luanr Chronicles returns with a standalone book that yet again looks to change how you think about fairy tales. This prequel to Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland tells the story of Catherine, a young girl in love. She has hopes and dreams, but fate has other plans.

By Claire Legrand Quicksilver aims to be the greatest thief of all time, but a mysterious old woman puts a wrench in her plans by giving the young orphan girl a chance to be so much more.

Quicksilver will face trials, tribulations, and just have some plane old fun.

By Ryan T. Higgins Last anyone had seen Bruce, proud, but annoyed, parent of four baby geese, he had gone to Miami to help his geese migrate South for the winter. Now, they return home, to find his home has become a hotel! How will Bruce cope with this change in events, and can he get his home back.

2. What Light (YA)

By Jay Asher A YA romance book that takes place during the holidays. Sierra’s family owns a Christmas Tree farm, but every year for Christmas, they pack up their trees and take them to California to sell. Sierra feels like she has two lives – One in California and one back home. Then she meets Caleb. This book is perfect for fans of holiday romance stories.

4. The Inquisitor’s Tale (or, the Three Magical Children and Their Holy Dog) (MG)

By Adam Gidwitz The bestselling author returns with this funny, but dramatic, adventure about a two boys, a girl, and a dog in medieval France. All three children have special powers, and all three view their abilities differently.

Told in the style of The Canterbury Tales, Gidwitz’s new book is sure to appeal to any fan of adventure, or those looking for a different take on Religion.

6. Yitzi and the Giant Menorah (PB)

By Richard Ungar Richard Unger presents a touching story about the meaning of the holidays, and about Hanukkah. The town mayor has brought a giant menorah for all in town to enjoy this Hanukkah, and the town folk want to thank him, but do not know how.

As the adults discuss and argue about the perfect method, Yitzi, a young boy, is certain he knows the answer.

CORAL GABLES | 265 Aragon Avenue | Coral Gables, Florida MIAMI BEACH | 927 Lincoln Road | Miami Beach, Florida 33139 BAL HARBOUR SHOPS | 9700 Collins Avenue | Bal Habour, Florida 33154 THE CAFÉ AT BOOKS & BOOKS AT THE ARSHT CENTER | At the ground floor of the Arsht Center www.booksandbooks.com

30

kiddos | December 2016 • January 2017

7. The Day Santa Stopped Believing in Harold (PB)

By Maureen Fergus A cute and fun twist on ‘does Santa exist’ books. Harold isn’t sure Santa exists, but likewise, Santa thinks Harold’s parents are lying about their child’s existence to get more toys for themselves! So, they both do the only thing they can… look for proof! Can Santa prove the child named Harold exists, and can Harold do the same with Santa?

8. Penguin Problems (PB)

By Jory John Penguin has a problem. It’s too cold, the fish are hard to catch, and everyone looks the same. Then he has more problems, and more, and more! Are things as bad as Penguin makes them out to be, or is there something good in penguin’s life?

This humorous book reminds you to always look for the good in life, and not just focus on the bad. k

kiddos

movie reviews

What’s new in theaters december ROGUE : A STAR WARS STORY PG FANTASY/SCIENCE/ FICTION IN THEATERS 12/16 NATIONWIDE DIRECTOR: GARETH EDWARDS

In a time of conflict, a group of unlikely heroes band together on a mission to steal the plans to the Death Star, the Empire’s ultimate weapon of destruction. This key event in the Star Wars timeline brings together ordinary people who choose to do extraordinary things.

THE SPACE BETWEEN US PG 13 FANTASY/SCIENCE FICTION IN THEATERS 12/16 NATIONWIDE DIRECTOR: PETER CHELSOM

Gardner Elliot, the first human born on Mars, begins an online friendship with Tulsa, a teen in Colorado.

On his maiden voyage to Earth, the 16-yearold finally gets to experience all the joys and wonders of a world he could only read about. Problems arise when scientists discover that Gardner’s organs can’t withstand the atmosphere.

LA LA LAND PG 13 ROMANCE DRAMA COMEDY IN THEATERS 12/16 NATIONWIDE DIRECTOR: DAMIEN CHAZELLE

Tells the story of Mia, an aspiring actress, and Sebastian, a dedicated jazz musician, who are struggling to make ends meet in a city known for crushing hopes and breaking

hearts. Set in modern day Los Angeles, this original musical about everyday life explores the joy and pain of pursuing your dreams.

SING PG FAMILY/MUSICAL/ANIMATION IN THEATERS 12/21 NATIONWIDE DIRECTOR: GARTH JENNINGS

Dapper Koala Buster Moon presides over a once-grand theater that has fallen on hard times. An eternal optimist, and a bit of a scoundrel, he loves his theater above all and will do anything to preserve it.

PASENGERS PG 13 FANTASY/SCIENCE FICTION IN THEATERS 12/26 NATIONWIDE DIRECTOR: MORTEN TYLDUM

On a routine journey through space to a new home, two passengers, sleeping in suspended animation, are awakened 90 years too early when their ship malfunctions. As Jim and Aurora face living the rest of their lives on board, with every luxury they could ever ask for, they begin to fall for each other, unable to deny their intense attraction until they discover the ship is in grave danger.

WHY HIM? PG 13 COMEDY IN THEATERS 12/23 NATIONWIDE DIRECTOR: DAMIEN CHAZELLE

Over the holidays, Ned an overprotective but loving dad and his family visit his daughter at Stanford, where he meets his biggest nightmare: her well-meaning but socially awkward Silicon Valley billionaire boyfriend, Laird. The straight-laced Ned thinks Laird, who has absolutely no filter, is a wildly inappropriate match for his daughter.

january HIDEN FIGURES PG DRAMA/TRUE STORY IN THEATERS 01/06 NATIONWIDE DIRECTOR: THEODORE MELFI

Hidden Figures is the incredible untold story of Katherine Johnson Dorothy Vaughn and Mary Jackson—brilliant African-American women working at NASA, who served as the brains behind one of the greatest operations in history: the launch of astronaut John Glenn into orbit, a stunning achievement that restored the nation’s confidence, turned around the Space Race, and galvanized the world.

MONSTER TRUCKS PG ACTION/ADVENTURE IN THEATERS 01/13 NATIONWIDE PG ACTION/ADVENTURE

Looking for any way to get away from the life and town he was born into, Tripp (Lucas Till), a high school senior, builds a monster

truck from bits and pieces of scrapped cars. After an accident at a nearby oil-drilling site displaces a strange and subterranean creature with a taste and a talent for speed, Tripp may have just found the key to getting out of town with a most unlikely friend.

XXX: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE PG THRILLER/ACTION IN THEATERS 01/20 NATIONWIDE DIRECTOR: D.J. CARUSO

Focuses on extreme athlete turned government operative Xander Cage coming out of self-imposed exile and on a collision course with deadly alpha warrior Xiang and his team in a race to recover a sinister and seemingly unstoppable weapon known as Pandora’s Box. Recruiting an all-new group of thrill-seeking cohorts.

THE FOUNDER PG 13 DRAMA/BIOGRAPHY IN THEATERS 01/20 NATIONWIDE DIRECTOR: JOHN LEE HANCOCK

Tells the true story of how Ray Kroc (Michael Keaton), a salesman from Illinois, met Mac and Dick McDonald, who were running a burger operation in 1950s Southern California. Kroc was impressed by the brothers’ speedy system of making the food and saw franchise potential. He maneuvered himself into a position to be able to create a billion-dollar empire. k

it’s just about kids | kiddosmagazine.com

31

kiddos

fa ea mt iul ry e e v e n t s

e id u G s ’ t n e v E y a id l o H

Where to go with our Kiddos

DECEMBER THURSDAY

3rd

Kendall Regional Hospital Winter Wonderland Extravaganza From 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Hospital Entrance Snow fun for kids, cookies and treats, entertainment by local schools, tree lighting ceremony and picture with Santa Claus.

Free event - Registration is required by calling 305-222-2200

8th

Christmas Tree Lighting By the Bay

Kiddos Breakfast with Santa

From: 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

South Shore by the Bay 3663 S. Miami Ave. The countdown to illuminate the tree is led by special guests. Entertainment will include performances and Christmas carols by the local school choirs.

Free event

Los Ranchos Steakhouse The Falls 8888 SW 136 St., Miami Fl. 33176 From: 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Santa Claus is coming to town!

Come and enjoy with family and friends an unforgettable breakfast morning! Chocolate milk, Christmas cookies, candy canes, gifts from Santa and much more!

For more information visit Eventbrite.com Kiddosmagazine.com or call 786.260.8492

9th

DEC. TO JAN.

Santa’s Enchanted Forest 7900 Bird Road, Miami, Florida 33155 Tropical Park Santa’s Enchanted Forest is the world’s largest holiday themed park that features over 100 rides, games, shows and animated children displays. This year we are unveiling the RC blaster, the sixth roller coaster at Santa’s. The RC blaster is the biggest and fastest roller coaster in Florida.

For more information visit santasenchantedforest.com

Winterland at the Farm Pinto Farm 14890 SW 216 Street, Miami, FL 33170 Holiday treats, hay rides, face painting, paddleboat rides, Santa, pony rides, and many more activities for kids!

For more info visit pintofarm.com

24th

The Polar Express Train Ride Gold Coast Railroad Museum 12450 S.W. 152nd Street Miami, Florida 33177 (next to Zoo Miami) The magical story comes to life when the train departs for a 45 minute round-trip journey to the North Pole. Once onboard, hot chocolate and treats are served as passengers read along with the classic children’s book.

For more information call 305.253.0063 or visit gcrm.org

JANUARY

6th-15th

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Presents Out of This World AmericanAirlines Starts at 7:00 p.m.

Children Of All Ages will be amazed by the cosmic voyage as you discover the wonders of gravity-defying acrobats, orbital aerialists, and more.

For more information visit: ringling.com kiddos | December 2016 • January 2017

10th

SATURDAY

DEC. TO JAN.

UNTIL DEC.

32

8th

THURSDAY

UNTIL DEC.

31st

Crayola Experience - Handmade Holidays The Florida Mall 8001 S. Orange Blossom Trail Orlando, FL 32809 Guests will be able to mold their own fingerprint ornament, color and build a Nutcracker and paint a Christmas star.

Families also get to take part in a holiday scavenger hunt and pose for photos with themed character cut-outs.

For more information visit crayolaexperience.com

JANUARY

14th-15th

Art Deco Weekend Kid's Club Ocean Drice & 13th St., Miami Beach From 10:00 a.m to 5:00 p.m The Kids’ Club is the place to listen, dance, create and learn. All the fun will happen by the playground near 13th St. Activities are ongoing between 11am and 5pm on For more information visit artdecoweekend.com Free event

SUNDAY

11th

SIT. STAY. POSE The Falls Center Court From 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Enjoy a special evening with your pet and Santa!

Furry guests who have their photo taken with Santa will receive a special treats.

Please visit thefalls.eventbrite.com for tickets and reservations.

Happy

2

1 0

7

New Year!

JANUARY calendar submissions Submit your event information for February-March calendar before January 10th to info@kiddosmagazine.com.

Include event name, location, address, date, time, cost, a brief description and contact. Events will be listed based on availability and it has to be family and kids related.

kiddos

parenting tips

The Secret Power of Chores WRITTEN BY: Dr. Stephanie O’Leary

5. Keep Some Things Off Limits: At least at first. There is a hidden beauty to telling your child he or she is not yet ready for certain household responsibilities. Honestly, toddlers should not be doing laundry and young kids should not be washing sharp knives. That said, when tasks are categorized or presented as being at different levels, it gives your child something to work towards. k

ids doing chores is a serious win-win situation. Practically speaking, when your child does a household task, it takes one thing off of your parenting plate, which is fantastic. But the benefit of doing simple chores goes deeper for kids. Helping out around the house allows your child to experience feelings of mastery, build self-reliance, and learn responsibility.

That said, when life gets busy it may be hard to keep chores at the top of the to-do list. This is especially true if you get push-back from your child when you ask for help. Before you jump in and take care of everything yourself, consider these five tips and see if you can unlock some chore power in your home.

1. Make Chores Family Focused: Part of the power of chores is teaching your child the importance of helping others. If chores include tasks that only benefit your child, such as making their bed or cleaning their room, this lesson is lost. So, make sure your child does at least one thing that helps the entire family.

2. Let Your Child Choose: If your child is not yet in the habit of doing chores, let him or her decide on a task to take ownership of. You can make a few suggestions, but giving your child the option to select a chore will make follow-through easier.

3. Give Cool Job Titles: Kids, like adults, love a special job title. This helps set the tone for leadership and will allow your child to embrace the responsibility of their chore. Think Mail Master, Dusting Director, and VP of Dishwashing. Older kids may roll their eyes, but at the end of the day getting creative with titles will make a difference.

4. Don’t Give Allowance: At least not for doing chores. Research has shown that kids are actually less motivated to do chores when they’re being paid for them. So, don’t make chores a business transaction and you’ll give your child a great opportunity to learn the value of teamwork within your family.

About the Author: Stephanie O’Leary, Psy.D. is a Clinical Psychologist specializing in Neuropsychology, and a mom of two. She provides parents with a no-nonsense approach to navigating the daily grind while preparing their child for the challenges they’ll face in the real world. For more information visit stephanieoleary.com

it’s just about kids | kiddosmagazine.com

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kiddos

entertainment

Harlem Globetrotters Bring new tour to Miami on Sunday, Feb. 26 on the heels of setting nine Guinness World Records™ records s the Harlem Globetrotters prepare to bring their 2017 World Tour to the AmericanAirlines Arena in Miami on Sunday, Feb. 26, at 4 p.m., the iconic team took a timeout for Guinness World Records Day. Only one year after setting seven official Guinness World Records titles, the Globetrotters broke a single-day total of nine records this year, including the longest basketball hook shot.

The records were broken at the AT&T Center, home of the San Antonio Spurs, during the 12th annual Guinness World Records Day, a global celebration of record breaking launched to celebrate the day the Guinness World Records book sold its 100 millionth copy. Since 2000, the Globetrotters now own 15 current Guinness World Records.

“We are the original trick shot artists, so it is great to reclaim our records and reestablish our dominance,” said Harlem Globetrotters star Big Easy Lofton. “We have been training hard so to have a day where we push the limits and try some fun yet challenging shots, is pretty cool. I mean, how many people can say they’re a Guinness

World Records title holder? We can’t wait to put smiles on people’s faces as we demonstrate our skills and talents on the upcoming world tour.”

Among the nine Guinness World Records titles which were set by the Globetrotters, four of them reclaimed records that were originally held by the team and then broken by Dude Perfect. The Globetrotters reclaimed the records of longest basketball hook shot, longest basketball shot blindfolded, most basketball 3-pointers made by a pair in one minute, and longest blindfolded basketball hook shot.

Here’s a full look at the records set by the Globetrotters:

• Longest basketball hook shot – Big Easy Lofton (72 feet, 6.25 inches)

• Longest basketball shot blindfolded – Ant Atkinson (73 feet, 10 inches)

• Most basketball 3-pointers in one minute (single ball) – Ant Atkinson and Cheese Chisholm (10 each)

• Farthest basketball shot made while sitting on the court – Thunder Law (58 feet, 9.25 inches)

• Most bounced basketball 3-pointers in one minute – Zeus McClurkin (5)

• Most basketball 3-pointers made by a pair in one minute – Ant Atkinson and Cheese Chisholm (22 each)

• Farthest basketball shot under-oneleg – Thunder Law (52 feet, 5.5 inches)

• Longest blindfolded basketball hook shot – Big Easy Lofton (58 feet, 2.5 inches)

• Most basketball slam dunks in one minute (individual) – Zeus McClurkin (16) k The Globetrotters will tip off their 2017 World Tour on Dec. 26 and will play in over 250 North American markets as well as 30 countries worldwide.

Tickets to the see the Globetrotters in Miami start at $26.00 and are officially on sale now at harlemglobetrotters.com or the AmericanAirlines Arena box office.

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kiddos | December 2016 • January 2017

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