As Florida’s Best Children’s Hospital for Orthopedics, three years in a row, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Orthopedic Center provides world-class care for musculoskeletal conditions affecting children, adolescents and young adults. Our team of fellowship-trained pediatric orthopedic surgeons is the largest in South Florida and among the busiest in the country.
SERVICES
y Pediatric Orthopedics
y Spine Center
y Sports Medicine
y Hip Preservation Center
y Hand and Upper Extremities
y Concussion Clinic
y Limb Lengthening Center
y Performing Arts and Dance Medicine
To schedule an appointment, call 954-265-6300, or to learn more, visit JDCH.com/Orthopedics.
Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten Program Florida's Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten Program
The Voluntary Pre-kindergarten (VPK) program prepares children ages 4 and 5 in The Voluntary Pre-kindergarten (VPK) program prepares children ages 4 and 5 in Florida for kindergarten and educational success! Florida for kindergarten and educational success!
There are no income requirements
There are no income requirements
You choose the program best suited for your child
You choose the program best suited for your child
High-quality early learning centers have availability
High-quality early learning centers have availability
Families with low incomes in Florida who are trying to work or get training or get training to work may be eligible for school readiness help. to work may be eligible for school readiness help. The School Readiness The School Readiness Program offers financial assistance to low-income families for early child Program offers financial assistance to low-income families for early child education and care so families can become financially self-sufficient and education and care so families can become financially self-sufficient and their young children can be successful in school in the future. their young children can be successful in school in the future.
Families with low incomes in Florida who are trying to work
To enroll into VPK or apply for the School Readiness program, To enroll into VPK or apply for the School Readiness program, go to www.elcbroward.org go to www.elcbroward.org
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In South Florida, the term “spring break” has become synonymous with sun, sand and surf. But for families looking to explore South Florida’s beauty beyond the beach, there are plenty of other options. Here are a few.
Shark Valley — Don’t let the name fool you. The one thing you will not see here is sharks. But, you could see alligators. Lots of them. Named for neighboring waterways that are home to several shark species, Shark Valley in Homestead is the heart of the Everglades freshwater marsh. Visitors can walk, bike or take a narrated tram ride along the 15-mile loop road to explore the plants and wildlife that call Shark Valley home. In addition to alligators, you might also spot herons, egrets, deer, turtles and snail kites during your adventure. Don’t miss the 65-foot high observation tower at the halfway point for panoramic views of the River of Grass.
— We all know Brian Piccolo, Markham and Delevoe are Broward County parks, but who are the people they are named after? Do a little research and then share your
findings with your kids while venturing on a self-guided parks tour. In your travels, you’ll learn that Brian Piccolo was a Chicago Bears football player who left a legacy after passing away at the age of 26. Pack a picnic and bring a football to pass around at the Hollywood park named in his honor. There are other amenities here too, including a velodrome, disc golf, fishing area, a playground and picnic area.
Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens — For families seeking tranquility, this is the place. With expansive Japanese gardens, strolling paths, nature trails and reflection areas, Morikami is a perfect
location to connect with nature and your family. Take your time meandering the paths to view the beautiful landscape and hear the breeze blow through the bamboo trees. The gardens feature a world-class bonsai collection, and the museum, modeled after a Japanese villa, houses exhibits, a theater and classrooms where tea ceremonies and workshops including bonsai, calligraphy and origami take place. If hunger strikes, the on-site Cornell Café has open-air seating with a stunning view. The casual lunch spot touts a Pan-Asian inspired menu with choices like bento boxes, boba tea and the Japanese cake roll.
The school year is quickly coming to a close, but there’s still time for high school seniors to finalize their college plans. The Broward County Library offers free, online workshops to make preparing easier. BCL college readiness programs include, “How to Craft a Strong College Essay” on March 1, “Scholarships to Pursue During Spring Break” on March 8, “FAFSA Instruction & Scholarship Usage” on March 10, “So, I’m not prepared to go to college. What now?” on March 15 and “How to Craft a Strong College Essay (Spanish)” on March 29. All sessions take place at
4:30 p.m. Students can register at www.broward.org/library.
The State of Florida also offers free, online tools and resources for teens through FloridaShines, the state’s student hub of innovative educational services. The program is designed to help students succeed in school, earn a college degree and find a career. Customized college readiness checklists are available for grades 9-12 to help keep kids on track, and the website also provides details about college prep courses, dual enrollment, financing college and more. For more information, visit www.floridashines.org/go-to-college/get-ready-for-college.
Disrespectful texts from your teen: “I HATE U SO MUCH!” Yelling, screaming, shoving matches. Punching walls. The “F” word.
Verbally and physically aggressive behavior isn’t unusual for teens, especially if it’s directed at their parents and siblings. After all, to develop their sense of individuality and independence, teens are biologically and socially programmed to buck the system.
“Some teen aggression is expected,” says John Mayer, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist who treats violent and acting-out teens and their families.
“But that doesn’t mean we should accept aggressive behavior as “normal,” Mayer says. Avoiding conflict by giving in to your teen’s demands or by shrugging aggressiveness off and saying, “What can I do? They’re doing it at school,” will reinforce the negative behavior.
When things don’t go your teen’s way, such as when he refuses to follow your house rules or hand over his cell phone on school nights at 11 p.m., you may find yourself uncomfortably facing down a frighteningly angry teen who is bigger and stronger than you. Moreover, you may worry about the effects outside the family.
Could the aggressive behavior come out as road rage, or negatively affect future schooling, work or relationships?
Teen tantrums can become a pattern, leading to outbursts in college, the workplace and their personal life. “Teens can become so aggressive and out of control that they can sometimes miss out on important developmental steps they need to become successful adults,” Mayer says.
Help your teen manage anger now, while you still can. The experts say it’s not too late, and they offer some temper-taming tactics that can serve teens well into adulthood.
ESTABLISH CLEAR BOUNDARIES AND EXPECTATIONS. When your teen acts out by shoving her sister or yelling, don’t ignore it or yell back. Instead, “Communicate clear, predictable expectations that will help address this challenging behavior,” says Meredith Silversmith, a licensed marital and family therapist.
Communicating and implementing consequences for unacceptable behavior can sometimes help. For instance, you can hold your teen accountable by telling her that shoving isn’t allowed and sending her to her room until she calms down. Or you can shut off the wi-fi or withhold the car keys. “The key is to stay
calm, consistent and predictable,” Silversmith says, which can be challenging in the heat of the moment.
IF YOUR TEEN STILL ACTS OUT, DON’T BACK DOWN. Establish a consequence and follow through to nip bad behavior. If you’re out to dinner, for example, and your teen says something mean to her brother, you might say, “We don’t talk that way to each other. If you keep it up, we’re done.” If the behavior doesn’t stop, leave the restaurant. “As a parent, you’ve got to take risks,” Dr. Mayer says. “Some parents are afraid of their own kids, which is how aggressive behavior gets exacerbated.” If your teen’s aggressive behavior continues to spin out of control; if say, your teen punches a wall when you say no to going to a party, don’t be afraid to take drastic measures. “There must be a line in the sand at which point parents say, ‘If you continue with this behavior, I will have no choice but to call 911,” Silversmith says. Then follow through, if the situation warrants it.
DIG DEEP. Instead of immediately launching into “Why are you acting this way? What’s wrong with you?” when your teen loses it, create emotional distance by anchoring yourself in the present. Take a mindful breath and ask yourself: What emotions and sensations am I feeling? What’s behind my teen’s behavior? “If you lead with a sense of curiosity and compassion, any request you make will go over much better with an angry kid,” says Mitch Abblett, a psychologist and author of Helping Your Angry Teen
Taking a step back might also help you understand what you may be doing to add fuel to the fire of your teen’s anger. Raging adolescent hormones and sleep deprivation can ignite teen outbursts. “Your teen could just be tired,” says Abblett. But your teen might also feel like he’s not getting enough respect for his capabilities or resent having his privacy invaded, such as when a parent reads his texts or enters his room without knocking, or he might be acting out because of something going on at home or school.
FIND A TRUSTED THERAPIST. If your teen’s meltdowns continue, find the help of a psychologist or licensed clinical social worker who specializes in working with teens. “Teens and parents can end up reinforcing a coercive cycle,” Abblett says. It can go like this: You present a demand, such as “You need to put your phone into another room when you do your homework,” and your teen says no, or your teen makes a request, such as asking to go out on a school night, and you say no. Anger escalates and you give in or become so intense that your teen shuts down. A therapist can coach parents and teens on how to break those frustrating patterns and establish healthier ones. “Working with a therapist is also the key to ensuring that your teen doesn’t have an underlying mental health issue that needs treatment,” says Silversmith, such as depression.
SEEK HELP SOONER THAN LATER. “Most parents think they can handle their teen’s anger themselves,” Abblett says. But it can take the experience and skill of a trusted therapist to help everyone get a handle on the situation so that a teen’s temper doesn’t progress to even riskier behavior — such as substance abuse or harming others — or permanently erode your relationship. This tough period doesn’t need to last forever, and you don’t need to handle it alone.
Sandra Gordon is an award-winning freelance writer who delivers expert advice and the latest developments in health, nutrition and parenting.
According to the experts there are several ways you can make sure your teen hears you:
CONNECT BEFORE YOU DIRECT
Dr. Laura Markham, clinical psychologist and author of Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids: How to Stop Yelling and Start Connecting, suggests that parents should notice what their teen is doing or find some other way to make a warm connection before speaking to them. She also recommends sitting next to teenagers instead of yelling across the room, “Please clean your room.”
LISTEN
If you want teenagers to listen to you then you must also listen to them. Make sure when you listen to them that they feel understood. Dr. Jennifer Salerno, nurse practitioner and author of Teen Speak: A guide to understanding and communicating with your teen says, “It’s all about modeling the behavior that you’d like them to reciprocate. Setting the stage for a positive discussion by actively listening causes them to feel respected and heard.”
Dr. Markham says, “The most important thing is calmness. When you yell, you increase your teen’s stress level and they shut you out and lose the desire to cooperate. Never talk with your teen while you are angry.”
If teenagers have a routine of what they are expected to do every day at that time of day, they are more likely to do it. These routines are also a good time to talk to them and be heard. Dr. Salerno says, “Activities like cooking together, walking the dog, and riding alone in the car are ideal times for an important topic to be discussed.”
Teenagers are more likely to listen and follow your suggestions and requests if you clarify your role.
“Explain to your teen that the rules and boundaries you are trying to establish are there to help guide and protect them.,” says Dr. Kenneth Ginsburg, a physician at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and co-founder of the Center for Parent and Teen Communication. “When you clarify your role in this way your teen will more likely understand the purpose behind the rule — big or small.”
If there are chores that teenagers need to do, offer them the option of selecting one of three chores.
Dr. Salerno says, “Teens feel respected when they are given options, not directives, which ultimately lowers their resistance.” You can also give them a choice of what time they want to complete the chore.
According to a recent Experian review, the average debt held by Generation Z, those currently between the ages of 18 and 22, is $2,057. This constituted an 11% increase since the same quarter one year before, indicating credit card use, at least by young adults, might be on the rise.
Educating kids on how to use credit cards responsibly is crucial to their future financial well-being. The good news is that those who learn and develop good saving habits early in life are more prepared to deal with what lies ahead and develop into financially responsible adults. Here are some ways to educate children of all ages:
THE YOUNGER SET. Begin teaching your child the concept of money, including the values of coins, from the ages of 4 to 6. During this time, keep it simple. Allow your child to earn money to save in a piggy bank for small chores.
IT’S ALL ELEMENTARY. By the time your child is 7, an allowance is essential to learning about money and developing good habits. Familiarize your kids with banking. Open a savings account, so they can watch their money grow. Also, help them set achievable goals, such as saving for a new toy or putting away for holiday gifts.
Keep in mind, many banks charge service fees unless a minimum
balance is kept, and frequent trips to the bank may be impossible. As an alternative, set up your own ‘family bank.’ Give your child a spare checkbook ledger or savings passbook. Then copy blank savings deposit and withdrawal slips from your bank for your kids to use. Require them to fill out the slips and log transactions in the ledger. Also, give your kids monthly interest for their savings so they can experience the immediate reward of saving money.
THE TEEN SCENE. Designer clothing, entertainment, and car expenses are the most significant areas of teen spending. Some teens also put away for college. But few are prepared for the adult world, says developmental psychologist Nancy J. Cobb in Adolescence: Continuity, Change, and Diversity. That’s because most teens aren’t primed for the responsibility of paying for food, housing, and health care costs.
Those teens involved with the family budget and who contribute to family expenses learn a valuable lesson. Opting to show teens the spending categories in which they have a direct impact on family expenses is helpful. Also, agree on a reasonable amount in which your teens can contribute to help cover those expenses. It’ll go a long way toward preparing adolescents for adulthood.
Whether teens contribute or not, their working hours should be limited to no more than 10 to 15 per week. According to Cobb, researchers have found adolescents who work, especially 20 or more hours per week, are not as engaged in school as their nonworking peers. Based on various studies, this shortchanges students in the long term. If you restrict your teens’ working hours to ensure success in school, it’s good to provide an increased allowance for clothing and personal needs. You can then help your teens budget their money.
Still, there are many ways teens can learn the value of money and develop good habits. Limiting teens’ funds may force them to be more selective and make wiser financial decisions.
Help your child develop good saving and spending habits in the following ways:
• Allow your kids to make some of their own spending decisions. Place reasonable limits. Then offer appropriate guidance while giving your kids opportunities to learn from their mistakes.
• Don’t loan your kids money every time they want it. But do offer occasional opportunities for them to learn the costs of borrowing and the experience of repaying the loan. When contemplating whether to give your child a loan and how much, there are several considerations. What’s the purpose of the loan and their ability to repay the loan within a reasonable time? Also, how have they handled repayment in the past?
Be sure to charge interest on loans so kids learn the cost of borrowing. Realize that regardless of how financially savvy we raise our kids to be, borrowing does have its place. At the very least, it’s often necessary or practical for acquiring a college
education, reliable transportation and a house. These can be wise investments, even when borrowing is needed.
• Teach your child how to set financial goals. By the teen years, these may include those big-ticket items just mentioned. And don’t overlook the importance of short-term goals, which offer your kids a feeling of accomplishment and a boost in self-esteem.
• Require your child to put at least 10% of each paycheck, or allowance, into savings. It’ll be much easier to adhere to as an adult if practiced during childhood and teen years.
• Don’t be totally secretive about family finances. Kids have few opportunities to see and experience the financial side of the adult world. This doesn’t mean you need, or even should, disclose everything. But it’s easier for kids to understand if they can see it in concrete terms. Develop a detailed household budget, then explain it so your adolescent can see how your family spends and why.
• Discuss the different ways in which you save and invest your own money. Explain how these different plans work. Point out both the benefits and the risks.
• Have your kids visit www.themint.org. They’ll learn about money, goal setting, saving, investing and more.
• Try a computer program such as Family Bank by ParentWare to help your kids track their allowances, expenses, loans, and more. Family Bank calculates interest for both savings and loans, allows kids to write checks to their parents, creates graphs of their spending habits, and more. Kimberly Blaker
Becoming an astronaut is all about adventure, exploration and endeavor. In Planet Pioneers: Journey to Space, guests will investigate what it takes to be a space explorer and the technology used to complete a mission. This special STEM exhibit gives future astronauts the opportunity to travel to space without leaving the Museum!
Exhibit FREE with Museum admission. Visit mods.org/tickets
Many years ago, I was dining with friends when a fly, which had been hovering over the serving dishes, landed on an ear of corn. Impulsively, I made a quick thrust with my fork. On the unlucky end of a millionto-one shot, the fly buzzed and writhed, impaled dead-center. Happily surprised, I left the fork stuck into the cob and looked up hopefully to see if anyone had noticed.
Reaction around the table ranged from admiration (from the 10-year-old boy) to revulsion (from his mom), but everyone agreed on one thing — what I’d done hadn’t been polite.
My parents taught me beautiful manners. Even though I never used the
full set, I respect the value of what used to be called “common courtesy.”
In one of the Oz books, there’s a guy who carries a magic magnet that causes everyone he encounters to love him instantly. Good manners work that way for children. The kid who says “please” and “thank you” finds adults instantly prejudiced in his favor. (There was a time when “please” and “thank you” were taken for granted, and it was the child who said, “sir” and “ma’am” who had grownups throwing themselves at her feet.)
With my wife, Betsy, leading the way, our kids were taught that if they want any degree of service around here, they have to use the magic words. At age 2, second-
born Sally was taking etiquette in new directions. When we’d leave someone’s house, she would always remember to thank them for their hospitality. But she was equally grateful when dinner guests left OUR house. Sally will call after them: “Thanks for the meat and the juice and the cookies” or whatever else we’d served. Sometimes she even thanked departing guests for any toilet paper she’d used during their visit.
Sally showed more than a polite interest in anyone who crossed her path. She saw supermarket checkout lines as social gatherings. Sally would say to the person ahead of us, “Hi, I’m Sally, who are you?” From there, the interview could go in a
variety of directions, but the end was the same. When her new-best-friend paid the cashier and began to leave, Sally would yell, “Hey! Where you going?”
When someone was using the bathroom, Sally would crouch outside the door and demand, “Hey! Whatcha doing in there?” and a vague answer would bring relentless follow-ups. When we told her that bathroom activities are supposed to be private, she didn’t get it. Freshly toilet-trained, Sally was enormously proud of her new abilities. In fact, after Sally had performed, she liked to invite people in to admire the result, like Martha Stewart showing off a dazzling centerpiece. Sally couldn’t understand why other people weren’t as forthcoming.
Our older daughter Marie was more reserved and ladylike. At age 6 she went so far as to ask us not to use the word “nostril” in her presence. Around that time she wanted to know, “Which is more disgusting: picking your nose or spitting?”
An excellent question, but it’s like asking who the better artist was, Van Gogh or Rembrandt. I told her it would depend on the beholder. “What offends one person might not offend another quite as much,” I said.
But Betsy told her spitting was worse, provided it was done AT someone. She was confusing rudeness with disgustingness. That’s just my opinion, but I never cross The Warden in front of an inmate.
I’m no expert on etiquette, but I knew how I wanted my kids to turn out — gracious and thoughtful, but self-confident and unceremonious. Although the girls did learn basic table manners and acquire the habit of saying “please” and “thank you,” they turned out to be themselves.
Marie at 24 is considerate and gentle. She never curses (unless she is talking about corporate irresponsibility). Sally at 20 is still making her own rules. She’s bossy and earthy. If a fly were to alight on the corn at an elegant dinner party, Marie would shoo it away. But Sally would call it a dirty name and take a stab at it — with or without the proper fork.
Rick Epstein is a freelance writer and author who finds value — and humor — in the principles of etiquette.
BY SANDI SCHWARTZ
When we were kids, life was simpler. Many of us just hung around the house during the summer and played with neighborhood friends or maybe attended a local day camp sponsored by our school or city. Nowadays, there are camps for everything you can imagine. It can be quite confusing, and even stressful, trying to find the right camp for our kids. Sometimes we even have to choose different camps for each child based on their interests.
Finding the best camp is essential for our children’s comfort and growth. Camps can offer them experiences and tools to go out in the world and discover who they are and what they want to become. A child can only truly grow if given the freedom and chance to gain confidence by exploring new ideas and activities and eventually finding their passion.
If you are struggling to find the right camp for your child this summer, take this fun and easy quiz. You’ll be able to discover which type of camp is the best fit.
Please choose only one answer, then tally up your answers and match the letter you mostly chose to the type of camp to the right.
1
How would you best describe your child?
m A. Artistic
m B. Athletic
m C. Brainy
m D. Adventurous
2
What is your child’s favorite subject in school?
m A. Music
m B. Physical education
m C. Math or science
m D. My child likes a variety of classes
3
What is your child’s favorite activity after school?
m A. Music lessons
m B. Playing a sport
m C. Robotics or science club
m D. Participating in a bunch of different activities with friends
4
Which type of birthday party would your child most likely choose?
m A. Dance party
m B. Indoor soccer or gymnastics
m C. Science museum
m D. Every year it’s different
5
What does your child usually do on weekends?
m A. Goes to theater rehearsal
m B. Has a game
m C. Competes in a robotics or math tournament
m D. Mixes it up with bike rides, art projects, and shooting hoops
6
m
What is your child’s favorite role in a group project?
A. Presenter
m B. Collaborator m C. Researcher m D. Fills in wherever needed
7
m
What’s your child’s favorite rainy day activity?
A. Listening to music
m B. Running around the house
m C. Playing a video game
m D. Inviting a friend over to hang out
8
m
m
Which would be your child’s dream vacation?
A. Seeing Broadway shows in New York City
B. Touring sports stadiums around the country
m C. Visiting science museums
m D. Doing something different every day including hiking, playing on the beach, and amusement parks 9
What would your child hope to achieve at summer camp?
m A. Starring in a musical m B. Being team captain m C. Creating an app m D. Trying new things 10
What does your child want to be when he/she grows up? m A. Movie star
B. Coach
C. Engineer
D. No clue
ASpecialty art and musical theater camps focus specifically on the arts. Some may offer a variety of art forms to choose from, such as pottery, woodworking, painting and photography. Others focus solely on one type of art, such as a sewing camp or band camp. Musical theater camps are quite popular and typically showcase a production after a few weeks of rehearsals. Art camps come in all varieties and locations. You can sign your child up for a one-week art camp at your local recreational center or find multi-week camps where they can truly hone their craft.
BSports camps usually consist of only one sport that a child plays throughout the day. The main goal is for participants to improve their skills by focusing extensively on a sport they love. You can find all types of sports camps in South Florida like tennis, golf, soccer, baseball, lacrosse or gymnastics. It is also a way to keep kids active and for your child to try a new sport or something only offered during the summer.
CIf your child loves to code, build and tinker, then a tech camp may be the right fit. These types of camps make learning about science and technology fun and exciting for kids. They also provide an opportunity for children to dive deeper into a subject they love, such as working on a science experiment, designing a website or programming a robot. In addition to camp programs dedicated to STEM, you can find science and tech options through local schools, colleges, and museums.
DTraditional camps are what you think of when you envision summer camp — canoeing, hiking, archery, relay races, swim lessons and crafts. They can be considered “jack-of-all-trades” camps because they offer all types of activities for children to try. If your child enjoys exploring and experiencing new things and has not yet found one specific activity they are passionate about, then a traditional camp is a great choice. They are very common and can be found all over. Some are day camps, while others are overnight experiences where your kids can also learn more independence skills. Overnight camps also offer a more rustic, outdoorsy experience with campouts, cabins, campfires and activities on the lake.
AMERICA’S LEADERS
North Broward 954-748-5977
www.americasleaders.co
All girls cheerleading program with dance, leadership and more. Ages 5-12.
BAER FAMILY CAMP KADIMA
5151 NE 14 Terrace, Fort Lauderdale 954-351-5544
www.dpjcc.org/baersummercamp
David Posnack’s award-winning Camp Kadima is now in east Fort Lauderdale. For children ages 2 to 8 years old.
BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS
Various locations in the tri-county area Broward www.bgcbc.org
Miami-Dade www.bgcmia.org
Palm Beach www.bgcpbc.org
Children participate in summer enrichment programs that focus on social and cultural experiences, recreation, team building and educational activities.
BROWARD CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
9191 Orange Dr., Davie 954-667-0852
www.browardkids.org
Through a wide range of activities and experiences, the summer camp program at Broward Christian Academy teaches children in grades K-5 how to be team players, build resiliency and confidence and develop social skills.
BROWARD COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION
954-357-8100
www.broward.org/parks
Broward County Parks typically hosts various summer camp options at a number of county park locations. Check the website for 2022 updates.
CAMP CHAMELEON
Markham Park, 16001 State Rd. 84, Sunrise 954-815-9054
www.campchameleon.com
Kids can enjoy playful summer days participating in activities that include non-competitive sports, art, aquatics and more. Programs include Young Chameleons for grades K-5, Chameleon Teen Camp for grades 6-8 and Counselors in Training for grades 9-10.
CAMP EMBARK
4700 Indian Trail, Miramar 954-654-4091
www.campembark.com
Children ages 5-11 can have fun while embarking on a journey to discover nature, science, leadership and self-empowering life skills such as financial literacy.
CAMP KADIMA AT THE DAVID POSNACK JCC 5850 S. Pine Island Rd., Davie 954-434-0499
www.dpjcc.org
Camp Kadima offers a camp experience for interests including sports, theater, adventure, travel, tech and more. Open to all. No membership required.
Camp is the perfect place to discover new talents and conquer old fears, make new friends and strengthen skills. Here’s a look at some programs throughout sunny South Florida that will let your child shine.
CAMP LIVE OAK
•Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, A1A & Sunrise Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale
•Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park, 6503 N. Ocean Dr., Dania Beach 954-563-4880
www.campliveoakfl.com
ACA accredited day camp offered at two beautiful state parks. Outdoor, environmental camp includes a variety of activities.
CAMP SAGEMONT
1570 Sagemont Way, Weston 954-389-9193
www.campsagemont.com
Camp Sagemont provides the opportunity for lifelong friendships and valuable, unforgettable experiences. Campers build new skills through day camp, academic camps, specialty camps, sports camps, a swim program and more.
CAMP SUMMIT-QUESTA
5451 SW 64 Ave., Davie 954-584-3466
www.summitquesta.com
Summit-Questa offers an Early Childhood Camp for ages 3-5 and an Elementary Camp for ages 6-10 with a variety of activities.
CARROLLTON SUMMER PROGRAMS
3747 Main Highway, Miami 305-446-5673
www.carrollton.org
Camp sessions include a variety of activities that engage campers in imaginative play, critical thinking, creative expression, outdoor exploring and more.
CHESTERBROOK ACADEMY
Broward locations in Coconut Creek and Hollywood
877-959-3740
www.chesterbrookacademy.com/camp
School-Age Summer Camp features sports, games, STEM activities, art, music, dance and more.
CHILDREN’S SERVICES COUNCIL (CSC)
Maximizing Out-Of-School Time (MOST) Summer Programs
www.cscbroward.org
Various locations throughout Broward County CSC funded summer programs provide a safe, positive environment for elementary school children from economically-disadvantaged areas in Broward County and for children and youth ages 3-22 with behavioral health and other special needs. Sliding fee scale.
CITY OF HOLLYWOOD
www.hollywoodfl.org
Kids can participate in specialty camps or participate in traditional summer camp activities throughout the city of Hollywood.
CITY OF MIRAMAR
www.miramarfl.gov
Choose from a variety of summer camp activities designed to allow children to grow and develop intellectually, physically, culturally and socially.
Sports Camp, M.O.S.T. Camp (CSC) & Swim Camp
JUNE 13TH TO AUGUST 12TH
For ages 6 to 12 years old. Must have completed Kindergarten. Children Services Council (CSC) Grant registration available at Vernon E. Hargray Y.E.C.
Summer Camps develop character, teach valuable life skills, meet new friends and discover new interests. City will hold 9 weeks of fun activities, fundamental learning and new adventures.
CHEF BOOT CAMP | ARTS & ANIMATION
SWIM CAMP | SPRINTERS WEEK
CREATE A VISION | MONEY AVENGERS
LIFE IS A BALL | RHYTHM & BEATS
CAMP LOCATIONS
ANSIN SPORTS COMPLEX 10801 Miramar Blvd. | 954-602-4990
MIRAMAR REGIONAL PARK AQUATICS COMPLEX 16801 Miramar Parkway | 954-883-6955
SUNSET LAKES COMMUNITY CENTER 2801 SW 186 Ave. | 954-602-3340
VERNON E. HARGRAY YOUTH ENRICHMENT CENTER 7000 Miramar Parkway | 954-602-4780
VIZCAYA PARK 14200 SW 55 St. | 954-602-6800
GENERAL INFORMATION CALL: 954-602-3172
MIAMI CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
980 MacArthur Causeway, Miami
305-373-5437
www.miamichildrensmuseum.org
Explorers Summer Camp, for ages 4-10, allows children to explore art, music, dance, performance, language, literacy and more.
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION
305-755-7800
www.miamidade.gov/parks
The third largest county park system in the United States generally offers a variety of fun-filled summer camp choices. Visit website for details.
SUNSHINE CHILD PROGRAMS
954-236-8850
www.sunshinefl.com
Offers a variety of camp options and activities at convenient locations.
YMCA OF SOUTH FLORIDA
954-334-9622
305-357-4000
www.ymcasouthflorida.org
Broward County locations: Greater Hollywood YMCA Family Center, LA Lee YMCA Family Center, Pembroke Pines YMCA Family Center and Weston YMCA Family Center
Miami-Dade locations: Homestead YMCA, North Pointe YMCA, South Dade YMCA Family Center, Village of Allapattah YMCA Family Center
Kids can make new friends and have summertime fun while participating in sports, aquatics, arts, science, cooking, fitness, performances, leadership training and more.
Barb Koster’s Riding Academy
Southwest Ranches
754-234-5981
www.barbkostersridingacademy.com
Campers participate in horseback riding as well as lessons about safety, grooming, tacking and horsemanship.
BRIGHT & SMART, ENGINEERING SKILLS FOR KIDS
Locations in Davie, Fort Lauderdale and Boca Raton
954-816-3346
www.brightandsmart.com
A fun, weekly camp for boys and girls ages 4-6, 7-9 and 10-12. Campers are immersed in a unique, fun-filled experience that fosters teamwork, builds problem solving skills, and nurtures critical and creative thinking.
FAIRCHILD TROPICAL BOTANICAL GARDENS
10901 Old Cutler Rd., Miami
305-667-1651
www.fairchild.org
Camp Discovery at Fairchild is a nature-based, fun-filled educational adventure for kids ages 7-12.
FROST MUSEUM OF SCIENCE
1101 Biscayne Blvd., Miami
305-615-7990
www.frostscience.org
Children can explore the wonders of science through hands-on activities during week-long themed camps.
Camp Discovery (Ages 7-12)
June 20 - July 29, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Camp Discovery at Fairchild is a fun-filled adventure every single day!
Member child: $225/week; Non-member child: $275/week Aftercare available.
GERMAN SUMMER CAMP
4200 N. 65 Ave., Davie 954-288-7599
www.germanschoolfl.com
Full immersion German summer camp for children ages 1-9.
iD TECH
1-800-709-8324
www.idtech.com
Camps take place at the UM, NSU and FAU
A tech camp for kids ages 7-19 with personalized learning, iD Certified instructors and an on-campus experience.
JACK & JILL CENTER STEAM CAMP
Located at Madelaine Halmos Academy, 1315 W. Broward Blvd., Fort Lauderdale 954-463-8772
www.jackandjillcenter.org
An innovative summer camp program where campers are encouraged to evaluate challenges and experiment their way through solutions.
MINDS OF TOMORROW
Locations throughout Miami-Dade County www.mindsoftomorrow.com
A creative tech camp for kids to explore and develop their natural creativity through hands-on tech and design activities.
MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY AND SCIENCE SUMMER CAMPS
401 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale 954-713-0930
www.mods.org
Weeklong camps are designed to give children ages 6-12 entire days filled with exploration and hands-on learning.
PLAY BY PLAY SPORTS BROADCASTING CAMPS
Located at FAU’s Boca Raton campus 800-319-0884
www.playbyplaycamps.com
Boys and girls ages 10-18 can learn the ins and outs of sports broadcasting from top professionals in the business.
CORAL SPRINGS MUSEUM OF ART
2855 Coral Springs Dr., Coral Springs 954-340-5000
www.coralspringsmuseum.org
Kids ages 5-6, 7-12 and 13-17 can explore art and have some fun through a range of camp activities.
YOUNG AT ART SUMMER ART CAMP
Located inside the Westfield Mall, 8000 W. Broward Blvd., Plantation 954-424-0085
www.youngatartmuseum.org
Kids can explore their creative side through painting, drawing, visual arts and more.
BROADWAY KIDS STUDIO
9042 W. State Road 84, Davie 954-693-7500
Broadwaykidsstudio.com
Dancers and performers can learn skills, increase techniques and participate in a talent show or full production.
BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
•Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale
•Nova Southeastern University/Miniaci
Performing Arts Center 3100 Ray Ferrero, Jr. Blvd., Fort Lauderdale
•Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, 3385 NE 188 St., Aventura
Call 954-414-6904 or visit www.browardcenter.org to reserve space in any of the camps.
Sessions are offered for different age groups at each of the three locations. The camp provides both an onstage and behind the scenes theater experience. The program culminates with campers performing live on stage.
DANCER’S GALLERY
12323 SW 55 St., Cooper City 954-437-9910
www.dancersgallery.com
Dancers can fine-tune their skills or try a new style of dance through the Performance Arts Camp at Dancer’s Gallery.
FLORIDA CHILDREN’S THEATRE
Camps are held at The Galleria Mall with performances at Bailey Hall 954-763-6882
www.flct.org
Summer Stage Show Camp offers sessions for those in grades 2-10. Campers learn the art of acting, music, and dance to mount a full-scale production at the end of each four-week session.
SCHOOL OF ROCK
Locations throughout Broward County www.schoolofrock.com
Kids can pursue their passion for music and performing with week-long camps that include AC/DC Camp, The Beatles Camp, Green Day Camp, Rock N’ Grohl and Best of the 80’s.
ATLANTIS ACADEMY
Locations throughout South Florida
www.atlantisacademy.com
Provides a fun-filled recreational and educational summer program for children for those with learning differences and unique abilities.
CAMP CORAL KIDS
954-344-3344
www.browardhealth.org/camp
Organized by Broward Health Coral Springs, this is South Florida’s only day camp for children with Type 1 diabetes. Call for details.
DIVERSE ABILITIES
11850 W. State Rd. 84, Davie 954-401-2024
www.teachdiverseabilities.com
A recreational and social Intensive Summer Program is offered to children with autism and related disabilities.
EASTERSEALS SOUTH FLORIDA
305-325-0470
www.easterseals.com/southflorida
Offers a variety of free summer camp programs for children and adolescents with autism and other related disabilities.
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION DISABILITY SERVICES CAMPS
305-755-7848
www.miamidade.gov/parks
Children and young adults with disabilities are offered enriching camp experiences in sports, swimming and arts and crafts at a variety of Miami-Dade County Parks & Recreation locations.
THE CHILDREN’S TRUST
305-571-5700
www.thechildrenstrust.org
This organization offers a wide range of services, programs and camps for children with special needs.
VALLEY VIEW RANCH EQUESTRIAN CAMP
606 Valley View Ranch Rd., Cloudland, Georgia 706-862-2231
www.valleyviewranch.com
A horse lovers’ paradise since 1954 on 600 acres. A’top Lookout Mountain, for 50 girls ages 8-17, includes English, Western, Barrels, Vaulting, and Trails.
Activities involve nature, creative arts, aquatics, athletics, and DAILY field trips. Field trips include: water parks, pools, ice/roller skating, laser tag, bounce house centers, arcades, movies, bowling and more!
FULL
German Summer Camp Ages1-9 • Register Now
• Full Immersion German Preschool Program Ages 1-5
• After Care • Free VPK Program
• German Language Classes for Native Speakers
• German as a Foreign Language Class for Children and Adults
• Teaching Principles of Learning With Your Head, Heart and Hand (Hands on Activities; music, art, storytime, puppet shows and outdoor activities)
June 13 - August 12, 2022
13 - August 12, 2022
Park State Rd.84 & Weston Rd. Sunrise www.campchameleon.com
Park State Rd.84 & Weston Rd. Sunrise www.campchameleon.com
954-391-9847 • 954-288-7599 germanschoolfl@aol.com www.germanschoolfl.com 4200 N. 65th Ave., Davie 33024
Lernen mit Kopf, Herz und Hand Lernen mit Kopf, Herz und Hand
Every week at BCA Summer Camp campers will have an opportunity to go on a field trip. Whether that’s Miami Seaquarium, Funky Fish, or Bowling, our campers are excited about all the fun places they will go with their friends.
Academic Enrichment
One of our specialized components that makes BCA Summer Camp so great, is our focus on academics. We schedule rotations that include math, language arts, science, and Spanish. We also include rotations that include music, arts and crafts, drama, cooking/hospitality and team building games. We like to keep children’s bodies and minds active during the summer.
Bible Focus
With all the fun things going on during our Summer Camp its best feature is our focus on bible based lessons and activities. Our theme scripture for summer will be Psalm 19:14–” May the words of my mouth andthe mediation of my heart be acceptable to You, Lord, my rock and my Redeemer.” Jesus was able to focus and learn from God’s word, we to will learn how to enrich our souls through meditation and mindfulness.
Please e-mail listing information to calendar@southfloridafamilylife.com by the 5th of the month prior to the event date. Include the name of the event, location, address, date, time, brief description, price and telephone number for the public.
and festival in FORT LAUDERDALE. See website for parade route and details. www.stpatsftl.com
Cooper City Founders Day
SATURDAY, MARCH 12
A full day of fun with events and activities throughout the day including a morning fun run at Cooper City High School, a pancake breakfast at the Community Center, a Founder’s Day Parade along SW 90 Avenue and family activities including live performances, food booths and fireworks at Brian Piccolo Park. 8:30am-9pm, THROUGHOUT COOPER CITY, www.coopercityfl.org
Water Matters Day
SATURDAY, MARCH 12
THURSDAY, MARCH 3
Free admission Starry Nights have transformed into Sunny Days with free museum exploration the first Thursday of every month. 11am-5pm, NSU ART MUSEUM FORT LAUDERDALE, One E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, www.nsuartmuseum.org
Scottish Festival & Highland Games
SATURDAY, MARCH 5
Experience Celtic tradition with Scottish music, entertainment, food, beverages, dancing, pipe and drum competitions, children’s activities, athletic competitions and more. $20/adult, $3/child. 9am-7pm, PLANTATION HERITAGE PARK, 1100 S. Fig Tree Lane, Plantation, www.sassf.org
Pinkalicious The Musical
SATURDAY, MARCH 5
The popular book series is brought to life in this on-stage performance where Pinkalicious can’t stop eating pink cupcakes. 10:30am (sensory inclusive) & 1pm, BROWARD CENTER FOR THE ARTS, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-0222 www.browardcenter.org
Celebrate Earth Day
SUNDAY, MARCH 6
Learn about being kind to our planet at this event with environmental exhibitors, live music, green-themed art displays, nature walks and more. All ages. Free. 10am-5pm, ANNE KOLB NATURE CENTER, 751 Sheridan St., Hollywood, www.broward.org/parks
Tour de Broward
SUNDAY, MARCH 6
A day full of fun including a family walk, run, bike rally and children’s play area to raise money
for Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital. Registration fees vary. MIRAMAR REGIONAL PARK, 16801 Miramar Parkway, Miramar www.tourdebroward.com
Weston World Fest
SUNDAY, MARCH 6
Take a tour around the globe without leaving Weston at this cultural event featuring international foods, booths, children’s activities and live performances. Noon-4pm, WESTON REGIONAL PARK, 20200 Saddle Club Rd., Weston, www.westonfl.org
Disney’s Frozen
MARCH 9-20
See this hit Broadway musical with stunning costumes, sets and special effects. $30.50-$90.50. Showtimes vary. BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-0222 www.browardcenter.org
Movies in the Park
FRIDAY, MARCH 11
Settle in to see an outdoor screening of Space Jam 2. 7pm, TAMARAC SPORTS COMPLEX, 9901 NW 77 St., Tamarac, www.tamarac.org
Summer Fun Expo
SATURDAY, MARCH 12
Explore a wide variety of summer camps and family activities during a fun-filled event with exhibitors, live performances, games, prizes and more. Free tote bags to the first 250 attendees. Pre-register online. Free. 11am-3pm, BERGERON RODEO GROUNDS, 4201 Rodeo Way, Davie, www.southfloridafamilylife.com
Fort Lauderdale St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival
SATURDAY, MARCH 12
Get ready to paint the town green with a parade
A fun-filled day about the need to conserve water for people, plants and animals. Packed with workshops, giveaways, children’s activities and entertainment. Free. 9am-3pm, TREE TOPS PARK, 3900 SW 100 Ave., Davie, 954-357-5130 www.broward.org/parks
Polynesian Culture Festival
SATURDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 12-13
A celebration of island culture with an authentic Polynesian show, island music, hula dancers, arts and crafts, food and more. $10/adult, free/children under 12. Saturday 11am-7pm, Sunday 11am-6pm. JACO PASTORIUS PARK, 4000 N. Dixie Highway, Oakland Park, 561-633-6034
Hollywood St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival
SUNDAY, MARCH 13
Celebrate all things Irish starting with a float and marching band parade at 1pm beginning at Harrison Street and 21 Avenue followed by a festival in DOWNTOWN HOLLYWOOD 954-921-3404 www.stpatricksparade.com
Coral Springs Festival of the Arts
SATURDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 19-20
An outdoor celebration of the arts with performances, live music and more. Free. 10am-5pm, THE WALK, 2875 N. University Dr., Coral Springs, www.artfestival.com
Island Exploration
FRIDAY, MARCH 25
Explore the island and learn about the plants and animals that reside there, during this guided tour. 10-11am, DEERFIELD ISLAND PARK, 1720 Deerfield Island Park, Deerfield Beach, 954-357-5100 www.broward.org/parks
Peppa Pig’s Adventure
SATURDAY, MARCH 26
Join Peppa Pig on an exciting camping trip with George and her school friends. $29.50-$59.50. 2pm, BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-0222 www.browardcenter.org
FRIDAY, MARCH 4
Celebrate the birthday of Dr. Seuss with an adventure filled with stories, singing and Dr. Seuss characters. 6pm. Check website for DORAL location, www.cityofdoral.com
WWE
FRIDAY, MARCH 4
Friday Night Smackdown returns to Miami with a lineup scheduled to include Ronda Rousey, Roman Reigns, Charlotte Flair and more.
7:45pm, FTX ARENA, 601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 786-777-1000 www.ftxarena.com
SATURDAY, MARCH 5
Explore innovative technology through hands-on activities including a mini drone obstacle course.
11am-4pm, PHILLIP AND PATRICIA FROST
MUSEUM OF SCIENCE, 1101 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, www.frostscience.org
Gold Coast Free First Saturday
SATURDAY, MARCH 5
Bring the kids for a hands-on history lesson the first Saturday of every month when admission and museum exploration is free. GOLD COAST
RAILROAD MUSEUM, 12450 SW 152 St., Miami, 305-253-0063 www.goldcoastrailroadmuseum.org
Carnaval on the Mile
SATURDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 5-6
A celebration of all things Miami including art, music, fashion, food and sports. Free.
ALONG MIRACLE MILE www.carnavalmiami.com
SUNDAYS, MARCH
6, 20 & 27
Bring your pup for a stroll through the lush gardens. $16.95/adult, $7.95/child.
8-10am, FAIRCHILD TROPICAL
SATURDAY, MARCH 12
Wear green and head to this family-friendly event featuring a parade from noon-2pm from Atlantic Avenue from the Intracoastal Waterway to NW Fifth Avenue and festival from 1-9pm at OLD SCHOOL SQUARE with live music, food trucks, vendors, music and more. Free. Noon-9pm, www.stpatsdelray.com
SATURDAY, MARCH 19
A celebration of all people and cultures with live performances, food, exhibitors and activities
BOTANIC GARDEN, 10901 Old Cutler Rd., Miami, www.fairchildgarden.org
SATURDAY, MARCH 12
Families can participate in free hands-on art activities, guided tours, entertainment and more on the second Saturday of every month. Admission is free all day, with art making from 1-4pm. PEREZ MUSEUM OF ART, 1103 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, wwwpamm.org
Monster Jam
SATURDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 12-13
Monster truck mayhem includes breathtaking stunts and the awesome power of the world’s most popular Monster Jam trucks. Tickets start at $15. Saturday 7pm, Sunday 3pm. LOAN DEPOT PARK, 501 Marlins Way, Miami, www.monsterjam.com
St. Patrick’s Day Plaza Party
THURSDAY, MARCH 17
Bring the family for a night of fun featuring Irish dancing and music. Free. 6pm, SOUTH MIAMIDADE CULTURAL ARTS CENTER, 10950 SW 211 St., Cutler Bay, www.smdcac.org
Moon Viewing
THURSDAY, MARCH 17
Pack a picnic, and a telescope or binoculars, for a relaxing evening viewing the full moon in Miami’s night sky. $10. 7-9pm, DEERING ESTATE, 16701 SW 72 Ave., Miami, 305-235-1668 www.deeringestate.org
Miami-Dade County
Youth Fair & Expo
MARCH 17-APRIL 10
Carnival-style rides, food, games and fun for the whole family. MIAMI-DADE COUNTY FAIR GROUNDS, 10901 Coral Way, Miami, www.fairexpo.com
FRIDAY, MARCH 18
REDLAND FRUIT AND SPICE PARK, 24801 SW 187 Ave., Homestead www.redlandfruitandspice.com
Bash the Trash
SATURDAY, MARCH 19
Part of the Family Fest series, this event includes a musical performance with instruments made from recycled materials such as an oil can guitar and water cooler drums, a pre-show activities and an instrument workshop. Pre-registration and tickets are required. 1:30pm, ADRIENNE ARSHT CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 786-468-2000 www.arshtcenter.org
Family Day
SUNDAY, MARCH 27
Families can enjoy free museum admission throughout the day and special hands-on activities including a Design Challenge from 2-4pm. THE BASS MUSEUM OF ART, 2100 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305-673-7530 www.thebass.org
Dino Safari: A Walk Thru Adventure
ONGOING
Learn all about dinosaurs as you stroll through a display of full-scale, animatronic dinosaurs. Prices vary. BAYSIDE MARKETPLACE, 401 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, www.dinosafari.com
Very Eric Carle: A Very Hungry, Quiet, Lonely, Clumsy, Busy Exhibit
THROUGH MAY 8
Step into the pages of Eric Carle’s colorful picture books at this play-and-learn exhibit. MIAMI CHILDREN’S MUSEUM, 980 Macarthur Causeway, Miami, 305-373-5437
www.miamichildrensmuseum.org
Food Truck Fest
TUESDAYS
Skip the cooking and choose from an array of food trucks, with selections sure to please the entire family. The evening also includes bounce houses and children’s activities. Weather permitting. 5-9:30pm, HAULOVER PARK, 10800 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 786-287-6688 www.miamifoodtrucksevents.com
including origami peace crane folding, puppet making and more. Free. 11am-3pm, POMPEY PARK, 1101 NW Second St., Delray Beach, www.downtowndelraybeach.com
THURSDAYS
Children ages 3-6 can participate in a hands-on activity with different topics ranging from bugs and pythons to plants and butterflies every Thursday. $8/class. 9:30am & 10:15am, SANDOWAY DISCOVERY CENTER, 142 S. Ocean Blvd., Delray Beach, 561-274-7263 www.sandoway.org
Bring your telescope to enjoy a night under the stars by a bonfire. 6-8:30pm, SCAN
Ages 5 and under with caregiver. $10/child. 10am-noon, DELRAY BEACH CHILDREN’S GARDEN, 137 SW Second Ave., Delray Beach, www.delraybeachchildrensgarden.org
Mother Nature & Me
THURSDAYS
Little ones learn all about nature through crafts, garden exploration and story time.
Every effort has been made to provide accurate information. Changes and cancellations do occur. Please double check the details before setting out on your adventure.
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And view our extensive online Calendar of Events at www.southfloridafamilylife.com
I’ve told my toddler I’ll buy her whatever kind of underwear she wants when she uses the toilet. I’ve put her on the potty and promised her a vigorous rendition of The Potty Dance if she eeks out just a few drops. Meanwhile, she has yet to demonstrate any real interest in potty training. And that’s fine with me. Here’s why:
I AVOID POTTY TALK. My older child, who is now five, started using the toilet at 2 years old. Over the past three years, I have given hours of my life to the discussion of her bathroom needs. Do you have to go to? Are you sure you don’t have to go? It’s a long drive. Please try before we go. Can you hold it until we get home? Do you want me to come into the restroom with you or wait outside? The amount of time and energy I’ve spent on this line of conversation is astounding. I’m OK with limiting it to one family member at a time.
GROCERY SHOPPING IS LESS COMPLICATED. Sometimes I think my older child strategically waits until my grocery cart is full to announce she must go to the bathroom. Right. Now. Between lamenting my lack of a commercial driver’s license when maneuvering the car-style shopping cart and hating the sound of my own voice saying “No” (no marshmallows, no sugar cereal, no getting out of the moving cart), I lack the reserves to manage two children’s urgent bathroom needs.
I’M ALREADY CARRYING A MOM BAG. Gone are the days when I dashed out with my phone, my keys and my wallet shoved in my pocket. In my bag, you’ll find all that, plus Tic Tacs (a handy, if sugary, bribe), baggies of sliced apples, a change of clothes for each kid, and a pinecone someone asked me to hold for a minute. What difference will a couple of diapers and some wipes make?
I’M LAZY. I masquerade as laid back and efficient when I am, in fact, uptight (I want my house clean!) and lazy (I don’t want to actually clean it!). These qualities don’t lend themselves to diving headfirst into the laborintensive, messy endeavor of potty training. Instead of listening to a podcast and making dinner while pretending that I can’t hear my kids fighting and decimating the playroom, potty training would require constant vigilance; close attention to both the clock and the child.
I AVOID THE POWER
STRUGGLE. I don’t remember what it’s like to be 2 years old, but I’m guessing it’s pretty disempowering. You’re at eye level with a typical adult’s mid-thigh. You can be scooped up and carried to an undisclosed location without notice or consent. You’re at the mercy of grown-ups 99% of the time. I don’t see the point of adding toilet use to the long list of things you can’t control.
I GET TO BABY MY BABY. My toddler is my second and most likely my last child, which makes her my baby forever. I realize it will be just a couple of blinks before I’m putting her on the school bus with her big sister. Diaper changes give me a chance to kiss the velvet skin of her little potbelly, to squeeze her scrumptious thighs, to marvel at her unlined, chubby feet. Also, there’s nothing quite like the sound of her high-pitched giggle when I tickle the back of her knee.
Pam Moore is a freelance writer and author who helps women push through fear to become their best selves.
Walk-in Urgent Care
7 Days a Week 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Personalized and prompt care of minor injuries and illnesses for infants, children, adolescents and young adults under 21 years of age provided by experts in pediatric care, led by board-certified pediatric physicians.
10 locations throughout Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties.
nicklauschildrens.org/UrgentCare
Walk-in care only. Urgent Care Center visits are not by appointment. Care is prioritized based on acuity.