South Florida Family Life, May 2021

ALL

PAMPER YOURSELF WITH LESS GUILT

slumber

SETBACKS

WHY YOUR CHILD MAY NOT BE SLEEPING

Specialty Care Near You

When your child needs specialty care, trust Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital. With more than 80 pediatric specialties/services and 20 locations in 8 communities, we’re close to home when South Florida children need us.

SPECIALTIES AND SERVICES

y 3 Pediatric Emergency Departments, including one of South Florida’s only pediatric trauma centers

y 3 Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU), including one Level III

y Cancer Care

y Ear, Nose and Throat

y General Surgery

y Heart and Vascular, including heart transplant

y Neurology/Neurosurgery

y Orthopedics/Sports Medicine

y Physical Therapy/Rehabilitation

y Pulmonology

LOCATIONS

Aventura

Boca Raton

Coral Springs

Hollywood

Miramar

Pembroke Pines

Wellington

Weston

Trust us to bring pediatric expertise, world renowned patient- and family-centered care and child-friendly settings — close to home.

CONGRATULATIONS TO NORTH BROWARD PREPARATORY SCHOOL'S CLASS OF 2021 AND OUR VALEDICTORIAN AND SALUTATORIAN

VALEDICTORIAN, JAY GOPAL

SALUTATORIAN, AUSTIN STEIN

VISIT NBPS.ORG

School is almost out and our special advertising section highlights a potpourri of programs for summer fun.

Where Summer Adventures Are Always On Deck.

Press Play On Your Summer in Florida’s Sweetest Spot! Discover the epic adventures that await you at VisitCentralFlorida.com.

Lake Kissimmee, Lake Wales, FL

Our mission is to enrich family life in South Florida by offering the highest quality publication and an unparalleled commitment to our readers and our community.

PUBLISHER

Lisa Goodlin

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Stacey Jacques

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Michelle Liem

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Shannon Pease-Severance

DIGITAL & SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR

Jennifer Jhon

SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Suzy Miguelez • Sheila Ranson

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Carrie B. Weeks

PRODUCTION ASSISTANTS

Toni Kirkland • Linda Seavey

DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Tom Gonzales

CONTACT US: 4611 S. University Drive, #224 Davie, FL 33328 Phone (954) 424-7405 info@familylifemediagroup.com

For information on where to find South Florida Family Life, or to become a distributor, call 954-424-7405 or e-mail info@familylifemediagroup.com

Comments and suggestions are welcome.

South Florida Family Life is published twelve times per year by Family Life Media Group. It is distributed free of charge throughout South Florida. South Florida Family Life is not responsible for statements made by advertisers or writers. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of information we print, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from omissions or errors. All photography and letters sent to South Florida Family Life will be treated unconditionally, assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is forbidden.

Copyright 2021 by Family Life Media Group. All rights reserved.

Taking Flight

DRAGONS, DINOSAUR-AGE FLYERS AND BIG BUGS STAR IN NEW EXHIBITS

As summer draws near, museums in South Florida are opening new exhibits this month, and one is already open. Dinosaur Revolution opened at the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium on April 24, giving visitors the chance to step into the skin of their favorite dinosaur with reptilian role-play activities and Mesozoic missions. They can also navigate a giant maze and dig for fossils. Learn more at www.sfsciencecenter.org/dinosaur-revolution.

Looking ahead, Pterosaurs: Flight in the Age of Dinosaurs, opens Saturday, May 15, at the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science in Miami.

Pterosaurs ruled the skies for as long as dinosaurs walked the Earth, and they were the first vertebrate animals to evolve powered flight. The Frost Science exhibit presents a variety of pterosaurs, from the colossal Quetzalcoatlus northropi, with a wingspan of 33 feet, to the sparrow-size Nemicolopterus crypticus, with a wingspan of 10 inches.

It also includes life-size models, videos and interactive games that allow visitors to test the mechanics of pterosaur flight and use their bodies to “pilot” two species of pterosaurs through virtual landscapes.

For more information, visit www.frostscience.org/pterosaurs.

At the Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale,

celebrating the mythical fire-breathing beasts from dragon lore and 10 species of their living wildlife cousins, opens May 22.

The exhibit includes three “Dragon Realms” – Medieval, Asian and Dragons in Paleontology (Dinosaurs!) – and 10 live lizards, including the albino green iguana, plumed basilisk, black throat monitor, European legless lizard, roughneck monitor, Egyptian uromastyx, Chinese water dragon, frilled dragon, bearded dragon and clubtail iguana.

Here Be Dragons opens with a special weekend of events May 22-23, including a make-and-take dragon craft, a Renaissance Festival area and more. Learn more at www.mods.org.

Closer to ground level, Big Bugs opens May 29 at Flamingo Gardens, with 10 giant insect sculptures created from willow limbs, twigs and branches by artist David Rogers.

Along the garden paths, see enormous ants marching to a picnic, a giant spider dangling from a tree and a dragonfly hovering over the water, as well as a 17-foot-long Praying Mantis. Learn more at www.flamingogardens.org/nature-connects.html.

The new exhibits are included with regular admission and most will be on display through Sept 5-6, 2021. Dinosaur Revolution closes Nov. 28, 2021.

Grads get their moment of glory

The school year has been far from ordinary for South Florida students, but for graduating seniors, their high school days will close with caps, gowns and all the traditional fanfare.

In-person ceremonies for Broward County’s 48 high schools, technical colleges and special centers will take place June 4-10. The celebrations will be modified to adhere to health and safety guidelines.

“We’re excited to return to traditional pomp and circumstance, and to give our 2021 graduates and their families an in-person graduation experience,” BCPS Superintendent Robert W. Runcie said in a statement. “We can’t wait to provide memorable and celebratory

events that honor and recognize the Class of 2021.” Each graduate is scheduled to receive two tickets for guests, and will also receive live-streaming information to share with family and friends who are unable to attend in person. To view the complete graduation schedule and other information, visit www.browardschools.com/BCPS2021Grads.

At the time of press, Miami-Dade County Public Schools released a tentative schedule for in-person graduation ceremonies for the Class of 2021, scheduled between June 1-9 at nine Miami locations and venues. For current information, please visit www.dadeschools.net.

We’ve Got You Covered.

PREVENTIVE CARE TO EMERGENCY CARE AT EVERY STAGE OF LIFE

Broward Health Medical Center and Salah Foundation Children’s Hospital is conveniently located in Fort Lauderdale. Count on us for:

• Level I Trauma Center for adults and pediatrics

• Award-Winning Stroke Center

• Dedicated adult and pediatric emergency departments with private rooms

• Joint Replacement Center

• Cardiovascular Services

• Sports Medicine

• Robotic Surgery Center of Excellence

• Comprehensive Cancer Center

• Liver and Kidney Transplant Center

• Fitness Center

• Sleep Disorders Center

• Maternity Place

• Lillian S. Wells Women’s Center

• Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

To find a physician, visit BrowardHealth.org/Find-Doctor or call 954.759.7400.

In case of emergency, always dial 911

MY MOTHER’S DAY WON’T REVOLVE AROUND MY KIDS… AND I REFUSE TO FEEL GUILTY ABOUT IT

BY PAM MOORE

Like orphaned socks, random game pieces, and naked dollies, my mom guilt pops up nearly everywhere. I wonder if I spend too much time on my phone and not enough time listening to my girls’ (repetitive) stories. I snap at my preschooler and mentally berate myself for staying up reading, which makes me tired, and consequently, impatient. I procrastinate asking my husband whether he minds putting the kids to bed so I can go out for a friend’s birthday because I feel guilty for leaving, even though I am home with my kids practically all day, every day.

This Mother’s Day, my kids will probably give me homemade cards and pictures, which I’ll treasure. But the gift I’ll cherish most is the one my husband gave me via our shared Google calendar: An invitation to an event called “Pam do whatever Pam wants.” I plan to do exactly that — without guilt.

Taking care of myself is not just good not just for me, but for my family, too. Here’s why.

If Mama isn’t happy, no one is happy. This old saying might sound like a manipulative way for Mama to get the whole family to bend to her every whim, but it’s not. In fact, emotions are contagious, and you can catch them from anyone. It just so happens that many women, feeling crushed by the stress of motherhood, battle insomnia for years after their babies start sleeping well. We tend to carry the weight of not just our professional lives, but also commitments to the PTA, carpool, doctors’ appointments, dental visits, scheduling daycare and sitters and camps, and planning birthday parties. All the while, we scroll through our Instagram feeds and wonder how everyone else makes it look so easy if we’re doing it #allwrong.

I’m not saying a day to yourself will cure insomnia or depression, but it can do wonders for your perspective. If you come back to your family refreshed and happy, that vibe will trickle down to the whole family as they catch your mood. My husband will be happy to tell you, giving me time to myself is worth more than the hassle of parenting solo while I’m out. But even if your family isn’t happy

about the inconvenience of your yoga class, or meeting a friend for a walk, Julie Burton, author of The Self Care Solution: A Modern Mother’s Must-Have Guide to Health and Well-Being, argues that your self-care is still worth prioritizing. According to Burton, the earlier you establish your self-care routine, the easier it will be for your family to eventually accept it.

Taking a break makes me a better mom. Even God rested on the seventh day. Moms are on call constantly. Since having kids, I have become that annoying person who sets their phone down on the table at a restaurant, in case the sitter texts. I refuse to sleep in a yurt in the mountains with my husband while our kids stay with their grandparents so I can be accessible just in case. (Also, I don’t feel like sleeping in a yurt.) As mothers, even when we’re apart from our children, part of us, however small, remains focused on them. When we are with them, even when (or more accurately, especially when) we attempt to focus elsewhere, our children make it nearly impossible. I can’t be the only one who makes a phone call when my kids are engrossed in an imaginary fairy world, only to find they are STARVING or BLEEDING as soon as the other party picks up.

Research shows that employees are happier and more productive when they have ample vacation time. As a mom, your higher-ups (or more accurately, your lower-downs) wouldn’t see you as a team player if you sat in your room with the door shut during business hours. They would, however, love to see you back from a vacation day with your batteries recharged, ready to tackle the next project — be it a boo-boo, a grilled cheese sandwich, or a french braid — with renewed enthusiasm.

I’m modeling the importance of self-care. Our kids learn from what we do, not what we say. When my daughters see me taking time to nourish my own interests, we all win. I get to spend time doing what makes my heart sing, and they get to grow up thinking that’s what normal moms do. (Because everyone thinks their parents are normal, at least for a while.) Says Burton, prioritizing self-care sends a message that “empowers children to be able to make healthy choices and advocate for their own self-care as they go through life and are faced with tough decisions like saying no to drugs because they care for and respect their body, or deciding to go out for the soccer team because they want to blow off some steam after school, stay active, and

have fun with their friends.”

Since having kids, I’ve had to cut way back on some of my activities. Gone are weekly craft nights and spontaneous happy hours. But I cling tightly to parts of my old self. I’m still an avid reader. My girls know when we go to the library, I’ll read them whatever they want after I’ve picked up my books from the hold shelf. My entire adult life, I’ve been an athlete. My girls may grumble about gym childcare, but they know I teach spin every Monday. When I return from a run, they inquire, “How was your run, Mama?” and often join me for some stretching. I would be thrilled if I can raise girls who carve out the time to engage in the recreational pursuits they love (even if those pursuits make their legs hurt), especially if they become mothers.

This Mother’s Day, I will run a 5K. I won’t do it with a stroller or jogging with my daughters. I will run hard. I will grimace in pain while reminding myself to relax my jaw, to smile, that I am lucky I get to do this. I will do it not because I hate myself (though I can see where you’d think that), but because testing my body’s limits brings me joy. Afterward, I will fully relax into the facial I have scheduled.

Sure, I’d love a mimosa brunch with my family. But what I’d love more this Mother’s Day is the chance to replenish my soul with some self-care.

FAVORITE nominees Family

South Florida

The nominees are in! South Florida life may be restricted, but we haven’t forgotten our favorite places. We’ve collected your nominations throughout South Florida in categories from your favorite park and place to swim to favorite party place, family restaurant, pediatric dentist and more. Now it’s time to take your nominations to the next level. Visit www.southfloridafamilylife.com now through May 13, 2021, and vote for your family favorites. The best in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties will be announced in the July issue of South Florida Family Life magazine.

FAMILY FUN

Favorite Beach

Broward:

Dania Beach

Deerfield Beach

Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park

Fort Lauderdale Beach

Hallandale Beach

Hollywood Beach

Lauderdale-By-The-Sea

Pompano Beach

Miami-Dade:

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

Haulover Park

Key Biscayne

Miami Beach

South Beach

South Pointe Beach

Sunny Isles Beach

Surfside

Favorite Place to Swim & Splash

Broward/Palm Beach:

Castaway Island at TY Park

David Posnack JCC

Fort Lauderdale Swimming

Hall of Fame pool

Miramar Regional Park

Paradise Cove at C.B. Smith Park

Pembroke Pines YMCA Aquatic Center

Rapids Water Park

Splash Adventure at Quiet Waters Park

Splash Pad at Pompano Beach Park

Sullivan Park

Weston YMCA Family Center

Miami-Dade:

A.D. Barnes Park Pool

Grapeland Waterpark

McDonald Water Park, Hialeah

Miami Shores Aquatic Center

Scott Rakow Youth Center, Miami Beach

Tidal Cove at JW Marriott Miami

Turnberry Resort, Aventura

Venetian Pool

Favorite Family Event

Broward:

ArtsPark Movie Night in Hollywood

Broward County Parks Fall Hayrides

Camelot Days at TY Park in Hollywood

Christmas-by-the-Sea in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea

Cooper City Founder’s Day

Family Night with Food Trucks at Heritage Park in Plantation

Florida Renaissance Festival at Quiet Waters Park in Deerfield Beach

Fort Lauderdale Air Show

Las Olas Art Fair

Orange Blossom Festival

Recycled Fashion Show at Young At Art

St. David’s Carnival, Davie

St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival, Fort Lauderdale

Touch-a-Truck, Cooper City

Walk for the Animals, Humane Society of Broward County

Winterfest Boat Parade

Miami-Dade:

Adrienne Arsht Center’s Family Fest Series

Art Basel

Coconut Grove Arts Festival

Coconut Grove Pumpkin Patch Festival

Deering Estate Ghost Tours

Fun and Fit as a Family, South Beach

Wine and Food Festival

Miami Seaquarium Easter Event

Miami-Dade Book Fair

Miami-Dade Youth Fair

New World Symphony

WALLCAST Concerts

continued on page 16

World Oceans Day at Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science

Zoo Lights at Zoo Miami

Favorite South Florida

Attraction

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

Butterfly World

Everglades Holiday Park

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

Flamingo Gardens

Fox Observatory at Markham Park

Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, Boca Raton

Jungle Island

Knaus Berry Farm

Lion Country Safari

Marlins Park

Morikami Museum

Palm Beach Zoo

Phillip and Patricia Frost

Museum of Science

Pinecrest Gardens

Rapids Water Park

Sawgrass Recreational Park

Seminole Hard Rock

Hotel & Casino

Water Taxi

Zoo Miami

Favorite Local Museum

Broward/Palm Beach:

Coral Springs Museum of Art

Museum of Discovery and Science

Norton Museum of Art

NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale

South Florida Science Center & Aquarium

Young At Art

Miami-Dade:

Coral Castle

Gold Coast Railroad Museum

Miami Children’s Museum

Museum of Contemporary Art

Museum of Illusions

Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)

Phillip and Patricia Frost

Museum of Science

The Bass Museum

Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

Wynwood Walls

Favorite Park or Playground

Broward/Palm Beach:

Bayview Park, Fort Lauderdale

C.B. Smith Park, Pembroke Pines

Holiday Park, Fort Lauderdale

Lincoln Park, Hollywood

Markham Park, Sunrise

Plantation Woods Park, Plantation

Reflections Park, Davie

Sugar Sand Park, Boca Raton

Tree Tops Park, Davie

TY Park, Hollywood

Veterans Park, Oakland Park

Vista View Park, Davie

Volunteer Park, Plantation

Waterford Park, Davie

Miami-Dade:

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, Key Biscayne

Crandon Park, Key Biscayne

Dry Tortugas National Park, Homestead

Enchanted Forest Elaine Gordon Park, North Miami

Flamingo Park, South Beach

Fruit & Spice Park, Homestead

Kennedy Park, Miami

Margaret Pace Park, Miami

Matheson Hammock Park, Coral Gables

Morningside Park, Miami

Muss Park, Miami Beach

Oleta River State Park, North Miami

South Pointe Park, Miami Beach

Tom Sawyer Island at Amelia Earhart Park, Hialeah

Tropical Park, Miami

Favorite Local Adventure

Broward/Palm Beach:

Billie Swamp Safari

Bluefoot Pirate Adventures

Everglades Holiday Park

Family Farms, Davie

iFLY indoor skydiving

Lion Country Safari

Sawgrass Recreation Park

Ski Rixen USA

Tigertail Lake Recreational Center

Aqua Challenge and Ropes Course

Water Taxi

Miami-Dade:

Feeding tarpon at Robbie’s of Islamorada

Gator Park

Jungle Island

Miami Seaquarium

Oleta River State Park

Shark Valley tram, Everglades National Park

Snorkeling and Glass Bottom Boat Rides, John Pennekamp State Park

The Little Farm

Zoo Miami

Favorite South Florida Resort or Hotel for Families

Aquafina Resort & Spa

B Ocean Resort, Fort Lauderdale

Beachcomber Resort & Club, Pompano Beach

Biltmore Hotel Miami, Coral Gables

Fontainebleau Miami Beach

Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach

Resort & Spa

JW Marriott Marco Island

JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa

Loews Miami Beach Hotel

Margaritaville, Hollywood

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

Shelbourne South Beach

The Breakers Palm Beach

The Diplomat Beach Resort, Hollywood

The Ritz-Carlton, Key Biscayne

Weston Bonaventure Resort & Spa

ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

Favorite Indoor Playground for Little Ones

Broward/Palm Beach:

Flippo’s

Monkey Joe’s, Coral Springs

My Gym

Off the Wall

Playtown Museum, Weston

We Rock the Spectrum

WowMoms World

Miami-Dade:

IGi Playground

Jumpin’ Jamboree

My Gym

Pod 22

Sky Zone

Favorite Indoor Destination for Older Kids

Broward/Palm Beach:

Boomers, Boca Raton

Cinemark Theatres

Dave & Busters

Flippo’s

iFLY Indoor Skydiving In The Game

Jump Start Indoor Playground, Pembroke Pines

K1 Speed

Off the Wall

Panthers Ice Den

Pines Ice Arena

Ramp 48 Skate Park

Sparez

Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park, Coral Springs

Xtreme Action Park

Miami-Dade:

Bowlero Miami

Gametime Miami

Kendall Ice Arena

LAUNCH Trampoline Park, Doral

Mega Jump, Doral

Ninja Lounge at Dezerland Park Miami

Phillip and Patricia Frost

Museum of Science

Planet Air Sports

Scott Rakow Youth Center, Miami Beach

Sky Zone, Doral

Topgolf

Favorite Party Place

Broward/Palm Beach:

Chuck E. Cheese

continued on page 18

Family Farms in Davie

Flippo’s

Fort Lauderdale Stars Gymnastics

iFly Indoor Skydiving

Monster Mini Golf

Off the Wall

Prissy Missy Spa, Weston

Ramp 48 Skate Park

Sip and Sparkle, Cooper City

Xtreme Action Park

La-La Land, Boca Raton

Miami-Dade:

Gold Coast Railroad Museum

Kubo Play + Party

Ninja Lounge at Dezerland Park Miami

Phillip and Patricia Frost

Museum of Science

Planet Air Sports

Planet Kids

Scott Rakow Youth Center

Favorite Arts Program

(Dance, Theatre, Art or Music)

Broward/Palm Beach:

Art and Culture Center, Hollywood

Broadway Kids Studio

Broward Center for the Performing Arts

Coral Springs Museum of Art

Dance Through the Ages, Davie

Florida Children’s Theatre

Florida Youth Orchestra

Inna’s Hall of Fame Performing

Arts Conservatory

Inside Out Theatre Company

KidzArt

Meg Segreto’s Dance Centre

School of Rock

Victorios Art Studio

Miami-Dade:

Adrienne Arsht Center

Area Stage Company

Encore Music Academy

Miami Fine Arts Academy

Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)

School of Rock

The Art Shack Miami

The Bass, Miami Beach

Favorite Fitness Fun

Broward/Palm Beach:

Baseball at Rotary Park, Hollywood

Coral Reef Gymnastics

David Posnack JCC

Florida Children’s Theatre Circus

Florida Triple Threat All Stars

i9 Sports

Jaac’d Up Sports Center

John Wai Martial Arts Academy

Mandel JCC

Swim Fort Lauderdale

TAG USA Gymnastics

The Little Gym

West Broward Gymnastics Academy

Miami-Dade:

Alper JCC

Gym Kidz Gymnastics and Dance

Kids Fitness Palace

Miami Beach JCC

My Gym

Sailing at Miami Yacht Club

Favorite After School Program

Broward/Palm Beach:

Boys & Girls Club

David Posnack JCC

Nova Gymnastics

YMCA of South Florida

Miami-Dade:

Alper JCC Miami

Bricks 4 Kidz, Kendall

YMCA of South Florida

Favorite Academic Enrichment/Tutoring Program

Broward/Palm Beach:

Code Ninjas

Huntington Learning Center

IMACS

International College Counselors

Kumon

Mathnasium

Sylvan Learning

Miami-Dade:

Bricks 4 Kidz, Kendall

Code Ninjas

International College Counselors, Miami Beach

Kumon

Math Monkey of Pinecrest

Sylvan Learning

Favorite Camp Program

Broward/Palm Beach:

Broward Center for the Performing Arts

Camp Kadima, David Posnack JCC

Camp Live Oak

Camp Nova

Daytrippers Sports & Travel Camp, Jaac’d Up Sports Center, Hallandale Beach

Florida Children’s Theater

Girls Scouts Summer Camp

Humane Society of Broward County

Kiddie Academy-Plantation

Meg Segreto’s Dance Centre

Pine Crest Summer Camp

Saint Andrew’s School - Summer Camp

Summit - Questa Montessori

Miami-Dade:

Bricks 4 Kidz Kendall

Miami Beach JCC

Miami Dade College Summer Camps

Phillip and Patricia Frost

Museum of Science

Ransom Everglades School

Summer Program

Taste Buds Kitchen

UM Frost School of Music

Young Musicians’ Camp

Youth Sailing Foundation Summer Camp

at Miami Yacht Club

Favorite Infant/Toddler Enrichment Program

Broward/Palm Beach:

Broward Libraries Storytime

Kiddie Academy of Plantation

Meg Segreto’s Parent and Me Acrobatics

My Gym

Singer Preschool at David Posnack JCC

The Kenneth & Harriet Kasselman

Early Childhood Learning Center

YMCA of South Palm Beach County

Preschool

Miami-Dade:

Baby Stars

Miami Beach JCC

My Gym

Temple Beth Shalom Innovative School

continued on page 20

Favorite Family Restaurant

th Street Fisheries, Fort Lauderdale

3750 S

www.flamingogardens.org

954-473-2955

Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant

Greek Islands Taverna, Fort Lauderdale

La Bamba Mexican & Spanish Restaurant

Rodizio Grill, Dania Beach

S3- Sun Surf Sand at Hilton

Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort

Seasons 52

Serafina Trattoria Italiana, Fort Lauderdale

South China, Cooper City

Spaghetto Kitchen, Davie

Sushiato, Weston

The Black Beans Café, Hollywood

The Field Irish Pub

Vignetos Italian Grill

Vivace Gourmet Pizza & Pasta, Plantation

Wolf’s Steakhouse, Cooper City

Miami-Dade:

Big Cheese

Cheesecake Factory

Doraku Sushi & Izakaya, Miami Beach

Fiorito

Izakaya, Coral Gables

Osaka Cocina Nikkei Miami

Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille, Coral Gables

Ricky’s Thai Bistro, North Miami

Ristorante Fratelli Milano

Shinju Japanese Buffet

Sports Grill - Sunset

Sugar Factory, Miami Beach

Flanigan’s Seafood Bar and Grill

Broward County Board of County Commissioners as recommended by the Broward Cultural Council.

State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture.

Favorite Pizza Place

Broward/Palm Beach:

Amore Gourmet Pizza, Davie

Angelos Pizzeria, Davie

Big C’s Downtown Pizzeria

Big Louie’s Pizzeria

Blaze Pizza

Davie Empire Pizza Café

DelVecchio’s Pizzeria, Davie

Dough Boys Pizzeria and Italian Restaurant

Empire Pizza Café, Fort Lauderdale

Gran Forno Pronto

J.R. Pizza Bella

Jersey John’s Pizzeria

Jet’s Pizza

Joe’s Old School Pizza, Hollywood

John the Baker

Lombardi’s Pizza, Sunrise

Mario the Baker, Sunrise

Munchy’s, Deerfield Beach and Boca Raton

Pizza Bella

Pizza Time, Coral Springs

Primanti Bros.

Rocket@Valentinos Italian Kitchen

Santino’s Pizza & Pasta, Pembroke Pines

Sicilian Oven

Stromboli Pizza

Thick & Thin, Boca Raton

Tony the Pizza Chef II, Hollywood

Vita Italian Restaurant, Cooper City

Vito’s Gourmet Pizza, Fort Lauderdale

Vivace Gourmet Pizza & Pasta, Plantation

Zinncredible Pizza, Davie

Miami-Dade:

Casola’s Pizzeria & Sub Shop

Evio’s Pizza & Grill, North Miami

Gaetano Pizza & Pasta

Lucali, Miami Beach

Master’s Pizza, Pasta & Grill, Miami Beach

Pizza Rustica Miami Beach

Pummarola Pizzeria Napoletana, Coral Gables

Tomato and Basil, North Miami

Favorite Burger Joint

Broward/Palm Beach:

Burger 21 Davie

Burger King

BurgerFi

Char-Hut

Charm City Burger

Doc B’s in Fort Lauderdale

Duffy’s Sports Grill

Five Guys

Flanigan’s Fuddruckers

Grapeland Water Park is excited to reopen its doors for the 2021 summer season. Come out and have the best day ever by splashing in one of our four pools with ideal water play attractions for all ages. Enjoy Pirates Plunge and Shipwreck Island with water shooting cannons and splash fountains surrounding the inner and outer shallow water play areas, along with the thrill of our five slides

For those who are seeking a more relaxed area of the Water Park, Buccaneer River Ride is for you! Just simply hop into one of our many inflatable tubes, lay back and let the water be your guide.

Float around the Lazy River for a cool trip through Buccaneer River but don’t think you are going to avoid getting wet. Water Sprayers and Fountains surround Buccaneer River and will provide a splash while you relax. All pools are ADA accessible and life jackets are available through the facility.

Le Tub

Rosie’s Bar & Grill, Wilton Manors

Rosies, Pompano Beach

Shake Shack

Tap 42, Fort Lauderdale

Miami-Dade:

BurgerFi

Cheeseburger Baby, Miami Beach

Evio’s Pizza & Grill, North Miami

Five Guys

Fuddruckers

Muncheez, Miami Beach

Pincho Factory

Favorite Healthy Food Spot (Vegetarian/Vegan/ Gluten Free)

Broward/Palm Beach:

BENTO, Dania Pointe

Bolay

Diced, Pembroke Pines

Falafel Bistro & Wine Bar, Coral Springs

Fresh Fusion, Davie

Goji Juicery and Kitchen

Gourmet Garden Cafe & Juices, Fort Lauderdale

Living Green

Panera

Parlour Vegan Bakery, Plantation

Raw Jūce, Weston

Sovereign - Poke, Boba, Asian Kitchen, Plantation

Tropibowls, Oakland Park

Whole Foods

Miami-Dade:

Berries in the Grove

Chipotle

NOA Café, Wynwood

Plant Miami

Pura Vida Miami

The Last Carrot

Whole Foods

Favorite Restaurant

Where Kids Eat Free

BurgerFi

Denny’s

Duffy’s Sports Grill

IHOP

TooJay’s

Favorite Place for Frozen Treats

Broward/Palm Beach:

Baskin Robbins

Cold Stone Creamery

Dairy Belle, Dania Beach

Haagen Daz

Icetasy Italian Ice, Cooper City

Jaxson’s Ice Cream Parlour, Dania Beach

Jeremiah’s Italian Ice

La Artesanal, Oakland Park

Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt

Midnight Cookies and Cream

The Magic Cow, Davie

Whit’s Frozen Custard, Boca Raton

Wilton Creamery, Wilton Manors

Miami-Dade:

Brain Freeze Nitrogen Ice Cream and Yogurt Lab

Gelato-go, Miami Beach

Insomnia Cookies, Miami Beach

Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt, Miami Lakes

Sugar Factory

The Frieze Ice Cream Factory, Miami Beach

Vayla’s Gourmet Shaved Ice, Miami

Favorite Breakfast Place

Broward/Palm Beach:

Rendez-Vous Bakery and Bistro, Oakland Park

Broadway Bagels, Plantation

Mayor’s Café, Pembroke Pines

Kristof’s Kafe, Davie

Marian’s Bagels, Plantation

Lunessa’s Café, Davie

Another Broken Egg Café, Pembroke Pines

First Watch

Tower Deli & Diner, Davie

IHOP

Two Brothers NY Bagels, Cooper City

Top Hat Deli, Fort Lauderdale

Denny’s

The Original Pancake House, Plantation

Flashback Diner

Cracker Barrel

Weston Diner, Davie

Garden Restaurant, Oakland Park

TooJay’s Deli

Taste of the City, Cooper City

Lester’s Diner

Pete’s Place Family Restaurant, Coral Springs

Miami-Dade:

Big Pink, Miami Beach

GreenStreet Café, Miami

Cracker Barrel

IHOP

Front Porch Café, Miami Beach

Jimmy’s Diner, Miami

Cafe Crème, North Miami

Denny’s

Oliver’s Bistro, Miami Beach

Favorite Farmers’ Market

Broward/Palm Beach:

J&J Farms, Deerfield Beach

Marando Farms & Ranch, Davie

Yellow Green Farmers Market, Hollywood

Brothers Farmers Market

Plantation Farmers Market at Volunteer Park

Bedner’s Farm, Boynton Beach

Miami-Dade:

Pinecrest Farmers Market

South Miami Farmers Market

Robert Is Here Fruit Stand

Wynwood Farmers Market

HEALTH & FITNESS

Favorite Pediatrician

Broward/Palm Beach:

Dr. Alicia Salland, Plantation

Dr. Eileen Kiang, Pembroke Pines

Dr. Howard S. Gill, Fort Lauderdale

Dr. Iris Silverberg, Weston

Dr. Ivette Cubas, Pembroke Pines

Dr. Kamal Taslimi, Oakland Park

Dr. Leon Cohen, Boca Raton

Dr. Mark Rotlewicz, Plantation

Dr. Marshall Ohring, Hollywood

Dr. Matthew Penson, Plantation

Dr. Michael Strong, Hollywood

Dr. Paul Goldberg, Hollywood

Dr. Theodore Morrison, Hollywood Pediatric Associates

Miami-Dade:

Castro Pediatrics

Dr. Nelson Vega, Miami Gables Pediatrics

Miami Beach Pediatrics

Pediatric Associates

Sunset Pediatrics

Favorite Hospital for Pediatrics

Broward/Palm Beach: Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital | Memorial Healthcare

Memorial Hospital West

Salah Foundation Children’s Hospital at Broward Health

West Boca Medical Center

Miami-Dade: Baptist Hospital

Holtz Children’s Hospital

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital

Favorite Pediatric Emergency Room

Broward/Palm Beach: Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital | Memorial Healthcare

Memorial Hospital West

Salah Foundation Children’s Hospital at Broward Health Coral Springs

Salah Foundation Children’s Hospital at Broward Health Medical Center West Boca Medical Center

Miami-Dade: Baptist Hospital

Holtz Children’s Hospital

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital

Favorite Urgent Care Center

Broward/Palm Beach: Baptist Health Urgent Care

CareSpot Urgent Care MD Now Urgent Care

Nicklaus Children’s Miramar Urgent Care Center

Miami-Dade: Baptist Urgent Care MD Now

Nicklaus Children’s Urgent Care Center

Favorite Pediatric Specialist

Broward/Palm Beach:

Dr. Bruce Miller, Ophthalmologist

Dr. Jason Adler, Pediatric Critical Care

Dr. Steven Singer, ENT

Miami-Dade:

Dr. William Muinos, Pediatric Gastroenterologist

Florida Center for Allergy and Asthma

Favorite Pediatric Dentist/ Orthodontist

Broward/Palm Beach:

American Pediatric Dental

Caponera Orthodontics, Plantation

Dr. Abby Wilentz, DDS

Dr. Jessica Baitner, DMD

Dr. Karen Gordon, DMD

Dr. Oana Romasan, DDS

Dr. Richard Sherman and

Dr. Patricia Templeton

Dr. Sandra Brenner, DDS

Dr. Vargas, Main Street Dentistry

Jacaranda Smiles

Minelle Tendler, DMD

Pike Pediatrics Dentistry

Sage Dental, Cooper City

Smile Protector

Super Smiles Pediatric Dentistry

Tooth Tales

Miami-Dade:

Assure Smile

Casa Smiles

Dr. Christopher Bob

Gables Family Dental

Kendall Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics

Miami Children’s Smiles

Miami Orthodontist Group

Favorite Program or Provider for Special Needs

Broward/Palm Beach:

Broward Center for the Performing Arts

Sensory-Friendly Performances

David Posnack JCC’s Giborim Program

Nicklaus Children’s Dan Marino

Outpatient Center, Weston

Therapies 4 Kids

We Rock The Spectrum

Miami-Dade:

Carrie Brazier Center 4 Autism School

ITP at Area Stage Company

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital

Favorite Maternity Hospital

Broward:

Broward Health Coral Springs

(The Maternity Place)

Broward Health Medical Center

Maternity Place

Holy Cross Medical Center

Memorial Hospital Pembroke

Memorial Hospital West

Memorial Regional Hospital

Northwest Medical Center

Plantation General Hospital

Miami-Dade:

Jackson Memorial Hospital

Mercy Hospital

Mount Sinai Medical Center

South Miami Hospital | Baptist Health

South Florida

RETAIL THERAPY

Favorite Store for Kids’ Stuff

Broward/Palm Beach:

5 Below

Children’s Place

Claire’s

Denny’s, Boca Raton

Dick’s Sporting Goods

Just Between Friends consignment sale

Old Navy

Party City

Pink & Blues, Plantation

Pottery Barn

Target

Miami-Dade:

GAP

Pottery Barn Kids

The Children’s Place

The LEGO Store

Favorite Mall or Shopping Center

Broward/Palm Beach:

Dania Pointe

Promenade at Coconut Creek

Sawgrass Mills

The Galleria

The Shops at Pembroke Gardens

Tower Shops, Davie

Town Center at Boca Raton

Westfield Broward

Miami-Dade:

Aventura Mall

Bayside Marketplace

Dolphin Mall

Lincoln Road Mall, Miami Beach

Shops at Merrick Park, Coral Gables

Favorite Kids’ Activity at a Shopping Destination

Broward/Palm Beach:

Build-A-Bear, Coral Springs and Pembroke Pines

IKEA Småland

In the Game at Sawgrass Mills

Stoney Clover Lane

The LEGO Store, Sawgrass Mills

Westfield Broward play area

Miami-Dade:

American Girl at the Falls

Aventura Mall slide and play area

Dave and Busters at Dolphin Mall

Holiday events at Shops at Merrick Park, Coral Gables

Favorite Store for Kids’ Décor

Buy Buy Baby

City Furniture

El Dorado

Home Goods

IKEA

Pottery Barn Kids

Rooms to Go Target

Due to ever-changing circumstances surrounding the pandemic, some businesses may be temporarily closed or events cancelled.

Slumber Setbacks

WHY YOUR CHILD ISN’T SLEEPING AND HOW TO HELP

BY MALIA JACOBSON

First, the good news: Thanks to social distancing and reduced travel, fewer children experienced ear infections, colds, and other minor illnesses over the past year, says Maida Chen, MD. Because these illnesses routinely disrupt slumber for babies, toddlers, and young children, families may have fewer illness-related sleep complaints.

That doesn’t mean everyone is sleeping soundly. Instead, more parents are reporting sleep regressions: babies and toddlers skipping or dropping naps, suddenly waking at night, or taking ages to fall asleep at bedtime. With family schedules still in flux, daily and sleep routines may be shifting, says Chen. Here’s how to cope.

REDEFINING REGRESSION

The term “sleep regression” describes a temporary but troubling return of an undesirable sleep behavior that a parent or caregiver assumed the child had outgrown, including sudden night awakenings, tears at bedtime, or waking at 4 a.m. Although sleep regressions are real, whether or not they’re a problem may be a matter of perception, says Chen.

About half the time, a sleep regression is developmentally appropriate; it’s normal for babies to wake more often after they’ve

acquired a new skill, like learning to roll over or stand. “A sleep regression is really just a change in sleep that’s perceived as undesirable by a caregiver,” says Chen. “It’s simply a misalignment with our expectations of how a baby should be sleeping compared to what’s happening with their sleep.”

While sleep regressions can happen at any time, they’re common around 4, 9, 12, 18 and 24 months of age and can coincide with developmental milestones. One study found that learning to crawl temporarily disrupts nighttime sleep between 5 and 11 months of age. Another study found that nap transitions in toddlerhood can shift melatonin production and delay bedtime.

Sleep regressions can stretch anywhere from a few days to a few weeks or longer, and often involving overtired, fussy behavior during the day and long, irritable stretches of light sleep or crying at night. It’s no wonder that parents want to rush through these regressions and get sleep back on track, STAT.

WHY REGRESSIONS SEEM WORSE THIS YEAR

Childhood sleep disruptions have seemed worse during COVID, despite fewer illness-related sleep complaints from parents, says Chen. But the changes may have more to do with stress than actual sleep problems. “The issue is more highlighted now

because we’re spending more time at home and traveling less, and parents have much less time away from their kids,” she says. “When you rely on your toddler’s nap or bedtime so that you can work or have a break, you’re going to be more upset when those regressions happen.”

But it’s also true that there may be genuine disruptions in sleep patterns, like fewer naps or later bedtimes, for a couple of reasons. Spending more time at home might mean that a baby is sleeping later in the morning or taking a longer afternoon nap, factors that can cause a later bedtime or nighttime awakenings. As spring turns to summer, families are also battling the normal, seasonal early sunrises and late sunsets that disrupt melatonin production and delay bedtimes.

HOW TO HELP

First, take inventory of your child’s supposed sleep problems, recommends Chen. “Parents should really do a gut check about what their child is experiencing in terms of sleep, and how big of a problem it really is for the child and the family. Is your child really being affected adversely from a developmental standpoint or is it really just the stress of upholding what life is supposed to look like?”

Determine your family sleep priorities. If you’re operating in survival mode and just need to nab enough shut-eye to get through the next day, don’t waste a moment worrying about bringing your toddler into bed with you if it will help everyone get more sleep, says Chen.

On the other hand, if keeping your child’s daily routine on track helps keep stress at bay, don’t feel guilty about prioritizing a consistent sleep schedule. “If the family thrives on routine and

survival is not the main concern, then this can be a good time to teach the baby or toddler self-soothing skills.” That could mean allowing your baby some extra time to fall asleep unaided or encouraging your toddler to play alone if they wake too early or aren’t taking a nap.

Build in regular times for movement, especially in the morning, when light exposure helps regulate sleep patterns and pave the way for a smoother bedtime. Aim for 10 minutes of outdoor time within the first hour of waking up; try a morning walk around the block or a game of hopscotch in the driveway. Investing in cheap blackout blinds from a big-box store can also help keep sleep routines intact during the bright spring and summer months, says Chen.

Limit screen time, especially in the final hour or two before bed. “This can be a time to establish family routines that support rest, like taking time at night to unplug as a family and relax,” she notes. “Parents can model healthy habits like taking a break from phones and screens at night.”

It’s normal to feel stressed when things seem to fall apart, including your child’s sleep routine, says Chen. But like everything else in babyhood, the change is temporary; children with healthy sleep patterns will nearly always get back on track after a developmental milestone, life change, or seasonal disruption passes. “Right now, what parents need most is to give themselves grace,” says Chen.

Malia Jacobson is a health and sleep journalist and author of Ready, Set, Sleep: 50 Ways to Help Your Baby Sleep So You Can Sleep Too

If you think your child may be struggling, your pediatrician can ensure they have the right support. Mental health benefits are available through Florida KidCare.

CAMP 2021 SUMMER SHOWCASE

FINDING THE PERFECT CAMP PROGRAM CAN TAKE WORK, BUT IT’S A WORTHWHILE INVESTMENT OF TIME. THE PAYOFF?

SUMMER FUN YOUR CHILD WON’T FORGET.

Summer Camp at

June 14 – August 20, 8 am – 5 pm

Ten, five-day sessions are available!

Children, ages 6-14, will explore and learn from nature at Deering Estate’s Summer Camp! Eco Explorers (ages 6-8) $175 for a five-day session Expedition Deering (ages 9-14) $200 for a five-day session Space is limited; register online.

Campers must practice social distancing and wear face coverings. Please review the latest safety guidelines prior to attending.

To request materials in accessible format, sign language interpreters, and/or any accommodation to participate in any Miami-Dade Parkssponsored program or meeting, contact Gisel Prado, 305-755-7848 or Gisel.Prado@miamidade.gov, at least 7 days in advance to initiate your request. TTY users may also call 711 (Florida Relay Service).

To

SUMMER PROGRAMS.

Discover the wonders of science through weeklong themed camps at Frost Science, located in Downtown Miami.

For details and online registration, visit frostscience.org/summercamp, call 305-434-9564 or email camp@frostscience.org.

June 14 -

August 13

Ages 4 - 11

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

1 3 901 NE 125th St, North Miami, FL 33161 #lcaperformingarts

The LCA Performing Arts is excited to welcome you back on-campus for Seussical Jr. with a performance at The Miniaci Perfor ming Arts Center.

CHILDREN FROM 5-17 YEARS OLD AUDITIONS JULY 17 | CALL BACK JULY 24

PERFORMANCE ON AUG 12 & 13

3-WEEK PROGRAM FEE: $890

REGISTER BEFORE JUNE 15 AND SAVE $100! LIMITED SPACES | RESERVE YOUR SPOT

LCA Performing Arts is about learning and growing in a way that prepares kids to be READY when their opportunities come along.

DANCING • SINGING • ACTING • MARTIAL ARTS

Ballet • Hip Hop • Jazz • Contemporary Breaking • Acro • Tap

THREE WAYS TO REGISTER

ONLINE: LCAPA.COM

PHONE: 786.748-7238

BY E-MAIL: INFO@LCAPA.COM

Half-Day Golf Clinics for Kids!

• Full Immersion German Preschool Program • Ages 1-5

• After Care • Free VPK program

• German Saturday School

FULL IMMERSION German Summer Camp Ages 1-9 • Register Now EARLY BIRD OFFER

• German as a foreign language classes for children and adults

(Hands on Activities; music, art, storytime, puppet shows and outdoor activities)

954-391-9847 • 954-288-7599

4200 N. 65th Ave., Davie 33024

Lernen mit Kopf, Herz und Hand

June 21 – July 12, 2021

Five days (Mon-Fri) of non-stop entertainment and learning that kids will love.

Five day program includes all of the components, from chipping, putting and full swing, to the rules and etiquette.

• Children 6-12 years

• Designed and taught by our golf pros

Save $20 on Summer Academy when you register by May 10th Register Now

“Grow your child’s game with Topgolf Summer Academy”

Topgolf.com/SummerAcademy

Topgolf Miami – Doral 11850 NW 22nd St Doral, FL 33182

MayEvents

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.

Getting to Know… Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella

MONDAY, MAY 10

Performed by children ages 10-15, this adapted fairy tale is told with a touch of hilarity and a lot of charm. $15. 5:30pm & 8pm, BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-0222 www.browardcenter.org

Steam Train Rides

SATURDAY, MAY 15

All aboard! Hop on a model steam train for a ride around the track. $1.50/ride. 10am-4pm, TRADEWINDS PARK, 3600 W. Sample Rd., Coconut Creek, www.broward.org/parks

Shell-Abrate!

SUNDAY, MAY 16

Enjoy free admission to the center’s galleries and hands-on activities during the monthly Free Arts Family Day. Noon-4pm, ART AND CULTURE CENTER/ HOLLYWOOD, 1650 Harrison St., Hollywood, 954-921-3274 www.artandculturecenter.org

MCC

Jr. Chef Challenge

SATURDAY, MAY 22

BROWARD COUNTY

Cooper City Garage Sale

SATURDAY, MAY 1

Search for treasure as a variety of vendors display their wares. 7-11am, FLAMINGO WEST PARK, 6201 S. Flamingo Rd., Cooper City, 954-434-4300 www.coopercityfl.org

Mother’s

Day Craft

MONDAY-FRIDAY, MAY 3-7

Stop by the Pompano Beach Library to pick up a free bead craft kit to make a bracelet at home for mom or another loved one. 11am-5pm, POMPANO BEACH LIBRARY AND CULTURAL CENTER, 50 W. Atlantic Blvd., Pompano Beach, www.broward.org/library

Sunny Days

THURSDAY, MAY 6

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 East Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, www.nsuartmuseum.org.

Movie in the Park

FRIDAY, MAY 7 & SATURDAY, MAY 8

Settle in for an outdoor screening of Shrek. Pre-registration required online. Free. 8pm, Friday at GEORGE S. GERBER MEMORIAL PARK, 4715 NS 30 St., Coconut Creek and Saturday

at SABAL PINES PARK, 5005 NW 39 Ave., Coconut Creek, www.coconutcreek.net

Friday Night Sound Waves

FRIDAYS, MAY 7, 14, 21 & 28

Listen to live music and get some fresh air every Friday night through July 2. Free. 6:30-9:30pm, LAS OLAS OCEANSIDE PARK, 3000 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, www.fortlauderdale.gov

Mother Daughter Painting in the Park

SATURDAY, MAY 8

Make memories while creating an artistic masterpiece together. For Cooper City residents. Pre-registration required. $30/mother/daughter, $12/additional daughter. 10am-1pm, MEMORIAL PARK, 9001 SW 51 St., Cooper City www.coopercityfl.org

Flying Forward

SATURDAY, MAY 8

Dimensions Dance Theatre of Miami presents an electrifying variety of cutting-edge, 21st century works. $20-$35. 8pm, ROSE & ALFRED MINIACI PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, 3100 Ray Ferrero Jr., Blvd., Davie, www.miniacipac.com

Fort Lauderdale Air Show

SATURDAY-SUNDAY, MAY 8-9

Reserve a spot to see performers, including the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, F-16 Viper Demo Team and more. ALONG FORT LAUDERDALE BEACH, www.fortlauderdaleairshow.com

Kids ages 9-13 can put their cooking skills to the test as they create meals from scratch using mystery ingredients. MIRAMAR CULTURAL CENTER BANQUET HALL, 2400 Civic Center Place, Miramar, www.miramarculturalcenter.org

Big Bugs Opening Weekend

SATURDAY-MONDAY, MAY 29-31

Explore Flamingo Gardens during the opening weekend of David Rogers’ Big Bugs exhibit featuring 10 larger-than-life insect sculptures, including a 10-foot-tall daddy long legs and a 17-foot-long praying mantis created from willow limbs, twigs and branches. Included with paid admission of $21.95/adult, $15.95/child.

9:30am-4:30pm, FLAMINGO GARDENS, 3750 S. Flamingo Rd., Davie, 954-473-2955 www.flamingogardens.org

Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony

MONDAY, MAY 31

The Town of Davie and Boy Scouts of America presents a parade at 10:15am and ceremony at 11am in honor of Memorial Day. Masks required. Parade begins just west of SW 70th Terrace, heading east to SW 65th Way, ending at Bergeron Rodeo Grounds. BERGERON RODEO GROUNDS, 4201 Rodeo Way, Davie, 954-797-1181 www.davie-fl.gov

Tamarac Community Farmers Market

SUNDAYS

Enjoy the open air while you shop for fresh produce, tea, honey and other local products every Sunday. 9am-2pm, VETERAN’S MEMORIAL PARK, 7825 Southgate Blvd., Tamarac, www.tamarac.org

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY

Curious George and the Golden Meatball Live!

SATURDAY, MAY 1

A fun-filled, family-friendly musical that follows the adventures of Curious George as he learns about Rome, meatballs and the secret ingredient to cooking. Free; tickets required. 10:30am & 4:30pm, SOUTH MIAMI-DADE CULTURAL ARTS CENTER, 10950 SW 211 St., Cutler Bay, 786-573-5300 www.smdcac.org

Gold Coast Free First Saturday

SATURDAY, MAY 1

Explore the museum for free the first Saturday of every month. GOLD COAST RAILROAD MUSEUM, 12450 SW 152 St., Miami, 305-253-0063 www.goldcoastrailroadmuseum.org

Live on the Plaza

SATURDAY, MAY 1

Festival Siempre Flamenco delivers a thrilling performance at the Arsht Center’s outdoor series of performances. 5pm & 9pm, THE ADRIENNE ARSHT CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 305-949-6722 www.arshtcenter.org

Vizcaya Late

THURSDAY, MAY 6

After-hours event includes garden exploration at night and fun activities and experiences. Tickets must be purchased online, in advance. $18. 5-8pm, VIZCAYA MUSEUM AND GARDENS, 3251 S. Miami Ave., Miami, www.vizcaya.org

Family Day on Aragon

SATURDAY, MAY 8

Enjoy a day of family fun activities, arts and crafts, live performances and more every second Saturday

PALM BEACH COUNTY

Spotlight on Young Musicians

FRIDAY, MAY 7

A showcase of emerging talent and area music programs are highlighted during this live performance. $12. 7pm, KRAVIS CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach, www.kravis.org

STEMapalooza

SATURDAY, MAY 8

A day open to all, but designed specifically for Girl Scouts with STEM activities, experiments, challenges and patch-earning opportunities.

1-5pm, SOUTH FLORIDA SCIENCE CENTER, 4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach, 561-832-1988 www.sfsciencecenter.org

Mother’s Day Nuigurumi

SUNDAY, MAY 9

Enjoy a fun family day creating a no-sew mini stuffed animal while using Japanese folding techniques on fabric. Noon, MORIKAMI MUSEUM

of the month. 2-8pm, CORAL GABLES MUSEUM, 285 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables, 305-603-8067 www.coralgablesmuseum.org

Pour Your Art Out

SATURDAYS, MAY 8 & 22

Receive a kit and settle into the studio to create a mosaic masterpiece on May 8 or a batik handkerchief on May 22. $15. 1pm, ADRIENNE ARSHT CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 786-468-2000 www.arshtcenter.org

Mother’s Day at Deering

SUNDAY, MAY 9

Pack a lunch and bring the family for a picnic with a beautiful backdrop or take a Mother’s Day Bay Cruise departing from the Deering Estate grounds. DEERING ESTATE, 16701 SW 72 Ave., Miami, 305-235-1668 www.deeringestate.org

Night Hike & Campfire

WEDNESDAY, MAY 12

Explore the woods and nighttime wildlife during this guided tour that’s followed by a campfire. Tickets sold online only. $15. 7-9:30pm, DEERING ESTATE, 16701 SW 72 Ave., Miami, 305-235-1668 www.deeringestate.org

Movies on the Lawn

FRIDAY, MAY 14

Bring a blanket, and claim a socially distant circle on the lawn to enjoy an outdoor showing of The Goonies. $10/person. 7pm, EVELYN GREER PARK, 8200 SW 124 St., Pinecrest, www.pinecrest-fl.gov

National Salute to America’s Heroes

SATURDAY-SUNDAY, MAY 29-30

Air and Sea show pays tribute to our military and first responders. Tickets available online. ALONG MIAMI BEACH, www.usasalute.com

Food Truck Wednesdays

WEDNESDAYS

Bring the family and your appetite to this food truck event featuring a variety of dishes to choose from. 5-10pm, PELICAN HARBOR MARINA, 1275 NE 79 St., Miami, www.miamifoodtrucksevents.com

Kids’ Graffiti Drawing Class

SUNDAYS

Children up to age 13 can learn the art of graffiti, bubble letters and characters from the pros. Free for kids with adult paid admission. 11am, MUSEUM OF GRAFFITI, 299 NW 25 St., Miami, 786-580-4678 www.museumofgraffiti.com

AND JAPANESE GARDENS, 4000 Morikami Park Rd., Delray Beach, 561-495-0233 www.morikami.org

Kubo and the Two Strings

SUNDAY, MAY 9

Enjoy a family-friendly movie about Kubo, who mesmerizes the people in his village with his magical gift for spinning tales with origami. Included with paid museum admission. 11am & 2pm, MORIKAMI MUSEUM AND JAPANESE GARDENS, 4000 Morikami Park Rd., Delray Beach, 561-495-0233 www.morikami.org

Free Museum Day

SATURDAY, MAY 22

Explore the museum for free during this all-day free-admission event. BOCA MUSEUM OF ART, 501 Plaza Real, Boca Raton, 561-392-2500 www.bocamuseum.org

Sandoway Discovery Series

THURSDAYS

Children ages 3-6 can participate in a handson 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

Alligator & Croc Feeding

MONDAYS

Explore the wildlife sanctuary and view the alligators and crocodiles as they have a snack. 4pm, BUSCH WILDLIFE SANCTUARY, 2500 Jupiter Park Dr., Jupiter, 561-575-3399

www.buschwildlife.org

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.

Yellow Fellow

PARENTING TEACHES HUMILITY… EVERY. SINGLE. DAY.

BY KATHRYN STREETER

Ilove my 6-year-old son like crazy. But his bathroom manners have a long way to go. For one thing, he hasn’t learned the art of good aim, and the bathroom is always a mess — a nightmare that won’t end. Like many boys his age, going to the bathroom is a big waste of playtime. So, he waits until the last possible moment, miscalculates and decorates the toilet and surrounding walls with yellow.

Sometimes the yellow completely fails to find its mark in the bathroom because playtime has simply made it impossible to arrive there on time. And then my son does what any 6-year-old boy would do: he hides the evidence.

“Guys, what’s all wet in here?” My hands, grabbing the laundry, come across wet Spider-Man boxers. Foul. Yellow. My son’s face confirms what I’m holding. I hug him. It’s OK!

Once my in-laws were coming for a visit and I’d done the normal prep, focusing on the bathroom. A few hours after their arrival when visiting the bathroom, I found no toilet paper — vanished. I scanned the bathroom for clues and spotted the soggy roll in the otherwise-empty trashcan. I connected the dots: He missed! I internally swam in a pool of frustration. But it was delicate; he was 6 years old.

Undoubtedly, our son would exhibit more serious behaviors in the future that would bring me to my knees.

There were things to worry about, and hosing the bathroom down wasn’t one of them. Too bad I didn’t fully appreciate this fact at the time.

I’d unconsciously coveted keeping up appearances, a state-of-mind impossibly at odds with these years. Like yanking off an old bandage covering a skinned-up knee, my son’s belated potty-training challenges effectively revealed my weakness in one such painful swipe. He exposed in me what was smellier and uglier than yellow could ever be. Maybe I owed my son my gratitude for revealing a pathetic character pothole.

If yellow rattled me, what about the many other colors yet to come flying my way? After all, there was a lot of raising yet to come — what then?

He was the lucky one. In time, he’d grow out of his filthy bathroom ways. They would disappear, more or less. He’d learn the art of aim and of so much more. Matters gravely foundational — like how to be a man and how to treat a woman — these, not a potty-saturated bathroom, were examples of priorities worth falling on my knees over.

For now, the pressing question, it turned out, surrounded me. A laughing 6-year-old son dousing yellow around the bathroom mercilessly laid bare my desire to project a perfect home and perfect kids.

Years have passed. I’m now a humble 45, my son a moody 13, and he’s helping me remember that I can’t control him every step of the way. Messy bathrooms? Yellow wasn’t so scandalous after all — I miss those days.

So when I write that there will be future challenges, it’s forged with real-life credibility. I can now view the yellow season as having had a bit of sunshine after all: a gift, courtesy of my son. It was then I started down the road of letting go of my pride.

Kathryn Streeter is a writer and mom who has been enriched in unexpected ways.

Behind every heartbeat is a world-class team

The Heart Institute at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital is a world leader in pediatric cardiology and cardiovascular surgery and the care of children with congenital heart disorders.

We offer the most innovative, least invasive approaches in pediatric cardiology and cardiovascular surgery for the treatment of congenital heart disease, including many first-inthe-world procedures that were pioneered by our own physicians.

The Heart Institute offers a variety of pediatric care offerings including:

Pediatric Cardiac Surgery

· Pediatric Interventional Cardiology

Fetal Cardiology

· Pediatric Electrophysiology

Dedicated Pediatric Cardiac Anesthesia

· Dedicated Cardiac Intensive Care Unit

· Genetic Testing and Services

nicklauschildrens.org/Heart

To schedule an appointment at one of our locations in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach and Martin counties, please call 305-662-8301