South Florida Family Life, June 2022

Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach Counties

SAVORING summer

ENJOYING THE SEASON’S SIMPLE PLEASURES

of the CLASS head

MEET SOME OF THIS YEAR’S TOP GRADS

BRAIN DRAIN

CURBING SUMMER LEARNING LOSS

Trust the Experts in Complex Care

Children and adolescents with complex health issues need leading specialists and a coordinated, holistic approach to their care.

Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Center for Complex Care has formed an alliance with Boston Children’s Hospital to offer an expanded network of experts, resources and support — in one seamless experience.

Now specialists at both children’s hospitals can collectively review and treat your child. The medical teams from both hospitals collaborate and manage the rarest and most complex conditions while keeping patients close to home.

To learn more about Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Center for Complex Care, to schedule an appointment or request a physician consultation, call 954-265-4494.

SERVICES INCLUDE

y Coordination with all care team members

y World-class medical consultation, diagnosis and treatment

y Transition care between facilities, providers and more

y Needs assessments for post-hospital medical services

y Second opinions for rare or difficult to diagnose health issues

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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.

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Lisa Goodlin

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Stacey Jacques

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Michelle Liem

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Shannon Pease-Severance

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Suzy Miguelez • Sheila Ranson

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Carrie B. Weeks

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Toni Kirkland • Linda Seavey

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Tom Gonzales

CONTACT US:

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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 2022 by Family Life Media Group. All rights reserved.

Cool Summer Fun

CHILL OUT AT THESE INDOOR VENUES

If you’re looking for things to do with the family while beating the heat, here are some local options to explore.

Crack the Case at Frost Science: If the museum’s name alone isn’t enticing enough on a sweltering summer day, add the adventure of the new Sherlock Holmes exhibit and it’s hard to resist. Mini-investigators are transported to an atmosphere of Victorian-style London as they test their powers of observation through indoor, hands-on activities at this new exhibit. Kids are encouraged to discover and interpret clues as they meet some suspicious, and not-so-suspicious characters along the way. Using their own detective work, and some Sherlock Holmes inspiration, children can unravel the investigation and solve the mystery.

The final gallery of the exhibit features a vast collection of all things “Sherlockian” ranging from vintage card games and comics to radio scripts, movie and television show props and costumes. The exhibit is ongoing through Sept. 5th at the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science at 1100 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami. For more information, call 305-434-9600 or visit www.frostscience.org

A Prehistoric Adventure at MODS: The dinosaurs didn’t have the luxury of air conditioning, but you do at the Dinosaurs in Motion exhibit at the Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale. The interactive, STEAM themed traveling exhibit features 14 fully interactive, life-sized metal dinosaur sculptures. Children can have fun while learning by using the lever and pulley systems and remote controls throughout the display. The exhibit is free with paid museum admission and runs through Sept. 6th. MODS is located at 401 SW Second St. in Fort Lauderdale. For more information, call 954-467-6637 or visit www.mods.org.

Mindbender Mansion at Cox Science Center: testing your brainpower at the puzzling Mindbender Mansion exhibit. You’ll be greeted by the wacky Mr. E., master brainteaser and puzzler extraordinaire, as he explains the mysteries of the Mindbender Mansion and how to gather hidden clues and secret passwords. The whole family is encouraged to participate in these interactive challenges that require independent thinking, teamwork and problem-solving skills. Activities include 11 individual brain teasers and three group activities. Once you’ve completed the mission, you’ll become a member of the Mindbender Society and will have your portrait on the “Wall of Fame.” Mindbender Mansion runs through Sept. 4th at the Cox Science Center and Aquarium at 4801 Dreher Trail North in West Palm Beach. For more information, call 561-832-1988 or visit www.coxsciencecenter.org.

Cox Science Center

Frost Musuem of Science MODS

SUMMER SAVINGS ARE HEATING UP

It’s back! Four local attractions have teamed up again to offer unlimited summer admission at one low price with the South Florida Adventure Pass.

For $50 per adult and $40 per child (ages 3-12), pass holders receive admission all summer long to Butterfly World, Flamingo Gardens, Museum of Discovery and Science and Sawgrass Recreation Park. Activities range from animal encounters and exhibits to interactive activities and airboat adventure rides.

Families can step into science-inspired fun at MODS where there’s a variety of hands-on exhibits and activities inside and additional entertainment outside at the Science Park. At Butterfly World, guests enjoy the open-air aviaries, a vine maze, butterfly museum and insectarium. Flamingo Gardens, one of the oldest botanical gardens in South Florida, has alligators, bobcats, peacocks, a bear and flamingos throughout the sanctuary. Then there’s Sawgrass Recreation Park, a place to explore the natural beauty of the Everglades and experience an airboat adventure through the sawgrass.

The South Florida Adventure Pass is available for purchase at all four of the participating locations and provides unlimited admission through September 30, 2022. For more information, visit www.southfloridaadventurepass.com.

The fun doesn’t stop there. The Summer Savings Pass is another offer that provides endless summer fun at an affordable price. Participating attractions include the Cox Science Center and Aquarium, Lion Country Safari and Zoo Miami. For $59.99 per adult and $49.99 per child (ages 3-12), pass holders receive unlimited visits to all three attractions through Aug. 31st.

The Cox Science Center and Aquarium features more than 100 hands-on indoor and outdoor educational exhibits, a 10,000-gallon aquarium, digital planetarium, a discovery center, mini golf, an outdoor science trail and a splash pad. Lion Country Safari, Florida’s largest drive-through safari and adventure park, features over 1,000 animals, a four-mile drive through preserve, and an adventure park with rides, animal habitats, a water-play area and more. Zoo Miami is home to more than 3,000 animals and also includes an indoor Conservation Action Center, and outdoor water play areas.

For more details on the Summer Savings Pass visit www.summersavingspass.com

Exhibit FREE with Museum admission.

Presented by

HEAD of the CLASS

TOP SENIORS 2022

A look at some of South Florida’s best and brightest students

ARCHBISHOP EDWARD A. MCCARTHY HIGH SCHOOL

Mia Escudero

SAT/ACT: 1520/34

WEIGHTED GPA: 5.65

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: National Merit Commended Scholar; AP Scholar with Distinction, Excelsior Scholar; NHS, Mu Alpha Theta, English, and Science Honor Societies; Silver Knight Nominee, Swim Team-Captain

ACCEPTED TO: Duke, UC Berkeley, UF, UC San Diego, Texas

WILL ATTEND: University of Florida (Honors Program and University Research Scholars Program)

Alejandra Alzamora

SAT/ACT: 1530/35

WEIGHTED GPA: 5.62

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: National Merit Finalist; AP Scholar with Distinction, Excelsior Scholar; NHS, Mu Alpha Theta, Science, Social Studies, and Spanish Honor Societies; Senior Class Treasurer

ACCEPTED TO: Cornell, NYU, UF, Boston University, University of Miami

WILL ATTEND: University of Florida Honors College

Lauren Amodio

SAT/ACT: 1550/31

WEIGHTED GPA: 5.57

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: National Merit Commended Scholar; AP Scholar with Distinction, Excelsior Scholar; NHS, Mu Alpha Theta-Secretary, English, Quill and Scroll, Science, Social Studies, and Spanish Honor Societies

ACCEPTED TO: Georgetown University, University of Florida Honors, Boston College

WILL ATTEND: Georgetown University

Samantha Monteiro

SAT: 1510

WEIGHTED GPA: 5.55

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: National Merit Finalist; AP Scholar with Distinction, Excelsior Scholar; NHS, English, Quill and Scroll, and Science Honor Societies; Model UN-President

ACCEPTED TO: Georgetown, Tufts, UF, Boston University, Fordham, UM, FSU

WILL ATTEND: Georgetown University

Analeigh Saiswick-Jones

SAT/ACT: 1510/34

WEIGHTED GPA: 5.54

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: National Merit Commended Scholar; AP Scholar with Distinction, Excelsior Scholar; NHS, Mu Alpha Theta – VP, Science, and Social Studies Honor Societies; Model UN, Student Ambassador

ACCEPTED TO: UF, UM, University of Rochester, Embry-Riddle, Rensselaer

WILL ATTEND: University of Florida

Devin Naganoolil

SAT: 1510

WEIGHTED GPA: 5.51

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: National Merit Commended Scholar; AP Scholar with Distinction, Excelsior Scholar; NHS, Mu Alpha Theta, and Science Honor Societies; Track and Field Team

ACCEPTED TO: Georgia Tech, UF, FSU, CU Boulder, USF, UCF

WILL ATTEND: University of Florida

ARCHBISHOP EDWARD A. MCCARTHY HIGH SCHOOL

Dyllan Mead

SAT/ACT: 1590/35

WEIGHTED GPA: 5.50

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: National Merit Finalist; AP Scholar with Distinction, Excelsior Scholar; Mu Alpha Theta and Science Honor Societies; AP Chemistry and Biology Subject Awards, Model UN

ACCEPTED TO: UC San Diego, New York University, UF

WILL ATTEND: University of California San Diego

Rafael de la Cova

SAT/ACT: 1400/31

WEIGHTED GPA: 5.49

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: National Merit Commended Scholar; AP Scholar with Distinction, Excelsior Scholar; NHS, Mu Alpha Theta, Spanish Honor Society-President, English and Science Honor Societies; Model UN-VP

ACCEPTED TO: UF, UM, FSU, University of Maryland, Penn State

WILL ATTEND: Florida State Honors Program

Richard Mooney

SAT: 1590

WEIGHTED GPA: 5.47

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: National Merit Finalist; AP Scholar with Distinction, Excelsior Scholar; Mu Alpha Theta; Maverick Robotics, STEM Club

ACCEPTED TO: UF, FSU, UCF, Fordham

WILL ATTEND: University of Florida

Sebastian Gonzalez

SAT/ACT: 1540/34

WEIGHTED GPA: 5.46

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: College Board National Recognition Program; AP Scholar with Distinction, Excelsior Scholar; NHS, Mu Alpha Theta, English, Science, and Spanish Honor Societies; Varsity Soccer Team-Captain

ACCEPTED TO: UF, Ohio State, UM, FSU, Texas A&M

WILL ATTEND: University of Florida

Madison Deperalto

SAT/ACT: 1520/34

WEIGHTED GPA: 5.45

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: National Merit Commended Scholar; AP Scholar with Distinction, Excelsior Scholar; NHS, Mu Alpha Theta, English, and Science Honor Societies; Best Buddies- VP, Student Ambassador

ACCEPTED TO: UF, UM, University of Maine Honors College

WILL ATTEND: University of Miami

Dennis Dale

SAT/ACT: 1530/35

WEIGHTED GPA: 5.39

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: National Merit Finalist; AP Scholar with Distinction, Excelsior Scholar; NHS, Mu Alpha Theta, English, and Science Honor Societies; SGA Executive Board-Treasurer, Silver Knight Nominee

ACCEPTED TO: UPenn, Duke, Cornell, Michigan, UNC, Georgia Tech, UF-Honors

WILL ATTEND: Duke University

ARCHBISHOP EDWARD A. MCCARTHY HIGH SCHOOL

SAT/ACT: 1490/32

WEIGHTED GPA: 5.39

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: National Merit Commended Scholar; AP Scholar with Distinction, Excelsior Scholar; NHS, Mu Alpha Theta, English, Science, and Social Studies Honor Societies; Student Ambassador

ACCEPTED TO: Duke, Georgia Tech, UF, FSU, UCF

WILL ATTEND: University of Florida

SAT: 1450

WEIGHTED GPA: 5.39

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: National Merit Commended Scholar; AP Scholar with Distinction, Excelsior Scholar; NHS, Mu Alpha Theta, and Science Honor Societies; Varsity Soccer Team-Captain

ACCEPTED TO: UF, UM, FSU, UCF

WILL ATTEND: University of Florida

SAT: 1450

WEIGHTED GPA: 5.36

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: National Merit Commended Scholar; AP Scholar with Distinction, Excelsior Scholar; Mu Alpha Theta and Science Honor Societies

ACCEPTED TO: Notre Dame, UF-Honors, Villanova, Boston College, FSU, UM

WILL ATTEND: University of Notre Dame

Faith O’Donald

SAT: 1440

WEIGHTED GPA: 5.36

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: AP Scholar, Excelsior Scholar; NHS, Mu Alpha Theta and Science Honor Societies; Student Ambassador, International Club-Secretary, Ted Ed Club, Tech Ambassador, Swim Team

ACCEPTED TO: University of Florida, University of Miami, Florida State

WILL ATTEND: University of Florida

ACT: 29

WEIGHTED GPA: 5.36

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: College Board National Recognition Program; AP Scholar, Excelsior Scholar; NHS, Mu Alpha Theta, English and Science Honor Societies; Key Club-President, Student Ambassador

ACCEPTED TO: UF, UM, FSU, USF, UCF, FIU, Nova Southeastern

WILL ATTEND: University of Florida

SAT/ACT: 1400/30

WEIGHTED GPA: 5.35

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: College Board National Recognition Program; AP Scholar, Excelsior Scholar; NHS, Quill and Scroll, Science, and Social Studies Honor Societies; Student Ambassador, Key Club, Mav Medicine

ACCEPTED TO: Michigan, UF, UM, FSU, USF, UCF, Texas A&M

WILL ATTEND: University of Miami

Allison Roca

Marcus Scott

David Williams

Samuel Garcia

Brianna Fraga

SCHECK HILLEL COMMUNITY SCHOOL

Gabriela Nicolaievsky

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: AP Scholar with Distinction, National Hispanic Recognition Program, Brown University Book Award, Silver Knight Award Nominee, National English Honor Society Co-Founder, Cadena Chapter Co-President, National Art Honor Society VP, Dance

ACCEPTED TO: Duke, Emory, University of Florida, U-Michigan, Georgetown, U-Miami, Northwestern, WashU

WILL ATTEND: Duke University

Zachary Lemmer

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: National Merit Scholarship Finalist, AP Scholar with Distinction, National Hispanic Recognition Program, Harvard University Book Award, National Honor Society VP, John Phillip Sousa Band Award, Silver Knight Award Nominee, National English Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, National Social Studies Honor Society, Tri-M Music Honor Society

ACCEPTED TO: University of Chicago (Early Decision), University of Michigan (Early Action)

WILL ATTEND: University of Chicago

Eduardo Halfen

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: National Merit Scholarship Finalist, National Hispanic Recognition Program, AP Scholar with Distinction, Brown University Book Award, Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society President, Roar Post Co-Editor in Chief, Diversity Club Founder/President

ACCEPTED TO: U-Michigan, University of Texas (McCombs Honors), Northwestern, Georgetown, Emory, Georgia Tech, Cornell

WILL ATTEND: University of Michigan-Ross School of Business

Basi Woldenberg

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: AP Scholar With Distinction, National Hispanic Recognition Program, Barnard College Book Award, Apréndalo Head of Admissions, Silver Knight Award Nominee, Roar Post Co-Editor in Chief, National Honor Society Co-Secretary, Celebrating Art, Science National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society, National Art Honor Society

ACCEPTED TO: Rice, WashU, USC, Barnard, Cornell, U-Miami, Maryland, OSU

WILL ATTEND: Cornell University

Gila Shechter

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: National Hispanic Recognition Program, Bryn Mawr College President's Book Award, Silver Knight Award Nominee, National Honor Society Co-Secretary, National Art Honor Society Co-President, National English Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society, Economics Honor Society

ACCEPTED TO: U-Michigan, University of Florida, UCF, UGA, Maryland, Indiana

WILL ATTEND: University of Michigan

Gabriella Shiro

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: National Hispanic Recognition Program, Silver Knight Award Nominee, Roar Post Webmaster, National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, History Honor Society, National Art Honor Society

ACCEPTED TO: NYU, Emory, Boston University, U-Michigan, U-Miami, University of Florida, Brown

WILL ATTEND: Brown University

DIVINE SAVIOR ACADEMY

WEIGHTED GPA: 4.458

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS: Valedictorian, AP Capstone Diploma, AP Scholar with Distinction, AP with WE Service Recognition, Advanced Placement Performance Award, Highest Honor Roll

ACCEPTED TO: University of Miami

WILL ATTEND: University of Miami

CAREER GOAL: Mechanical Engineer

FAVORITE TEACHERS: Mr. Ross (Calculus), Mr. Parsons (Stats), Mr. Willems (STEM)

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MEMORY: Senior Grad Bash trip to Universal Orlando

Simon Gil Estiz

WEIGHTED GPA: 4.450

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS: Salutatorian, AP Capstone Diploma, AP Scholar with Distinction, AP with WE Service Recognition

ACCEPTED TO: University of Florida, University of Miami, Texas A&M

WILL ATTEND: University of Florida

CAREER GOAL: Mechanical Engineer

FAVORITE TEACHERS: Mr. Seeger and Mr. Ross

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MEMORY: Senior Grad Bash trip to Universal Orlando

Paula Baez

WEIGHTED GPA: 4.248

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS: Student Council President, National Hispanic Scholar, 2022 UF Model United Nations 1st Place Winner, 2022 National High School Model United Nations 2nd Place Winner, Highest Honor Roll

ACCEPTED TO: Northeastern University, UT Austin, University of Miami, UCF

WILL ATTEND: University of Central Florida

CAREER GOAL: Dermatologist

FAVORITE TEACHERS: Ms. Tenyer, Ms. Nass, Mr. Schultz, Ms. Maasz, Ms. Kalyanova

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MEMORY: Model UN conference in New York City

Jean Claude Lelievre

POSNACK JEWISH DAY SCHOOL

5810 South Pine Island Rd., Davie • 954-583-6100 • www.posnackschool.org

Hannah Cuenca

WEIGHTED GPA: 4.75

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS: Scholastic Gold and Silver Keys, Congressional Awards: Best in 9th, Best in 10th, Broward Art Guild Best in Show, Drexel Winner: 2020, 2021, National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society

ACCEPTED TO: Michigan, Cornell, Virginia, UF Honors, WashU, Vassar

WILL ATTEND: Cornell or University of Michigan

CAREER GOAL: Architect

FAVORITE TEACHERS: Mr. Siflinger, Mrs. Jackowitz, Mr. Mash, Mr. Weber

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MEMORY: Trips to Camp Kuluqua

FAVORITE QUOTE: “The bad news is time flies. The good news is you’re the pilot.”–Michael Altshuler

Ethan Shatz

WEIGHTED GPA: 4.63

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS: Founded the Reel World Club, president 2 years; Varsity Tennis captain, district winners; NHS member, National Merit Commended

ACCEPTED TO: Purdue, McGill, Northeastern, University of Florida

WILL ATTEND: Purdue University

CAREER GOAL: Engineer

FAVORITE TEACHERS: Mr. Siflinger and Mrs. Kibler

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MEMORY: Senior Class trip

FAVORITE QUOTE: “The best way to predict your future is to create it” –Abraham Lincoln

Charlie Berman

WEIGHTED GPA: 4.64

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS:

Summa Cum Laude, Member of National Honors Society (4 years), Completed 14 AP/AT courses, 350+ community service hours, part of the 2021 Posnack Rams undefeated flag football team

ACCEPTED TO: Northwestern University

WILL ATTEND: Northwestern University

CAREER GOAL: Sports analyst

FAVORITE TEACHERS: Mr. Siflinger and Ms. M

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MEMORY: Winning the varsity flag football championship

FAVORITE QUOTE: “A mind needs books like a sword needs a whetstone” –Tyrion Lannister

NSU UNIVERSITY SCHOOL

Madison Davis

WEIGHTED GPA: 5.05

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS: Valedictorian, Pinnacle Award, Harvard Book Award, Citizen Scholar Award, Head of School Honor Roll, National Merit Commended Scholar, Outstanding English Scholar, Commended Spanish Scholar, AP Scholar with Distinction, National Honor Society

ACCEPTED TO: Dartmouth, Rice, University of Florida, American, George Washington

WILL ATTEND: Dartmouth College

CAREER GOAL: Scientist, engineer, or psychologist

FAVORITE TEACHERS: Dr. Arechabaleta, Ms. Carbonara, Mr. Dibert, Profe Ruiz

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MEMORY: Traveling to Chicago for a Model UN competition in freshman year

FAVORITE QUOTE: “Be who you are, not who the world wants you to be” -Coco Chanel

Nicole Steinberg

WEIGHTED GPA: 5.03

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS: Salutatorian, National Merit Scholarship Recipient, AP Scholar with Distinction, University of Pennsylvania Book Award, Coca-Cola Scholarship Semifinalist, Outstanding Scholar in Mathematics and Social Studies, Dance Excellence Award, First-Place National Title in Dance, Moot Court Trial Winner, National Honor Society, AP Scholar with Distinction, Head of School Honor Roll

ACCEPTED TO: Vanderbilt University (ED)

WILL ATTEND: Vanderbilt University

CAREER GOAL: Lawyer

FAVORITE TEACHERS: Ms. Carbonara, Mr. Walsh, Mx. Rubino, Mr. Snyder, Mr. Glickman

FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MEMORY: Dance concerts, Law Fellowship, and making new friends

FAVORITE QUOTE: “If there is no struggle, there is no progress” -Fredrick Douglas

SUMMER DAYS

FIND YOUR PERFECT BALANCE OF FAMILY FUN

By Christa Melnyk Hines

Which version of summer is most true for you?

A. Lazy days spent lounging poolside with my happy, contented family.

B. A mad rush of activities, exhausted parents and grouchy kids.

Want a summer that’s a little more lounging and a lot less racing around? Here’s your guide for leaning into a more carefree, creative and spontaneous season.

HIT PAUSE. Rather than vault into summer, ease into it. “Our school year is full of activity, routine and deadlines. Use the first few weeks of summer like a detox from constant activities,” says Shannon Kinney-Duh, a mom of three and holistic life and spiritual coach.

Brainstorm a list of summer desires and activities together.

Mindfully answer questions like: What do I/we want summer to look like?

More downtime? More family connection? Less running around? And remember, free activities count too. Kinney-Duh’s sons enjoy making stop-motion movies, writing plays, painting at the park, water balloon fights and movie nights in the backyard.

BOREDOM IS OKAY. Kinney-Duh suggests we look at boredom as a creative opportunity. Boredom, she says, “invites kids’ creativity to kick in, providing their

deep need to play more with a space to flourish.” Multiple studies show that kids, who are given the time and space for creativity and personal expression without adult interference, turn out to be more flexible to change, stronger problem solvers and innovators.

“Children need time to immerse themselves in creative activities, a place that feels safe to express ideas that are unconventional, and encouragement to explore the unknown so they can discover what they enjoy and unlock a universe of possibilities,” writes Helen Hadani, a researcher at the Center for Childhood Creativity, in her paper Inspiring a Generation to Create: Critical Components of Creativity in Children

Keep a space in your home that allows for freewheeling creative expression. Stock it with painting, drawing and craft supplies, inexpensive cameras, recycled objects, and building materials.

STRIKE A BALANCE. For some of us, envisioning long days without a plan causes our brain synapses to crackle and pop with alarm. Without structure, won’t our kids spend the next two and half months fighting or turning into houseplants playing video games?

Of course, we also don’t want to spend the entire summer peeling our sweaty selves in and out of the car as we run our kids from one scheduled activity to another.

“All too often we fall into the ‘too much/not enough’ trap,” Kinney-Duh says. “We end up filling our days with obligations and too many activities with this underlying feeling that if we don’t, we somehow aren’t doing enough for our kids. This cycle can easily leave us feeling tired, overwhelmed and depleted.”

Decide what a happy medium looks like and what your priorities are, including your needs for self-care.

Ask questions like… What types of skills would I like my kids to work on this summer? What are they interested in doing? Could a responsible sitter help run my kids around a few times a week? What are ways I can recharge and care for myself to ensure I show up feeling present, patient and engaged with my family?

PROVIDE SIMPLE STRUCTURE. While summer is meant to be more laid back, providing a framework around the days helps kids feel secure and grounded. A sense of structure is especially important for children with sensory, attention or impulse control

issues. They “benefit greatly from monitoring and feedback during the summer to stay on track, maintain and improve communication skills,” says parent and life coach Sara Minges.

Plan weekday mornings for more structured activities and the afternoons for free play. Perhaps designate Sunday evenings as s’mores nights with friends or Fridays as pizza and game nights.

Tip Tip

Remind your kids of the importance of flexibility. “They may not have the extras or comforts they are used to when traveling such as comfy pillows, TV, separate bathrooms and beds, favorite foods or friends to play with,” Minges says.

Create a “wall of gratitude.”

BE REALISTIC. When planning your family’s summer vacation, take into account each family member’s interests and build in time to relax and take breaks from each other. “Too many activities and not enough ‘chill time’ can push everyone’s last nerve,” Minges says. Instead of focusing on creating the perfect vacation, remain flexible. While you can plan for some variables, you can’t control the weather, a moody teenager or your two-year-old’s inopportune meltdown while going through airport security. “Any personality, irritability or anxiety issues experienced during the year will still be there and may become more pronounced,” Minges says.

Choose a vacation destination with activities that appeal to each member of your family.

Tip

MAKE A FAMILY MEDIA PLAN. Establish your family’s technology rules as soon as summer starts to avoid tech overload and battles over time allowances. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no tech time for toddlers, other than video chatting, and only one hour a day for preschoolers. Set reasonable guidelines for your older children to ensure they’re getting plenty of exercise, good sleep and face-to-face time with family and peers. Set aside one tech-free day a week. “That means no technology at all,” Kinney-Duh says. “It may sound hard and you may feel restless at first, but it’s worth it!”

INSPIRE CREATIVE CONNECTION. Document the summer with photos and stories in a summer journal that your whole family can contribute to, including ups and downs. Chances are the moments when things went awry are those that you will recall with laughter later.

Tip

Minges suggests using post-it notes or slips of paper and markers on which each family member writes their favorite moments from their vacation and pins it to the wall. Encourage younger children to draw pictures of their favorite moments. Don’t forget to take a photo of your wall!

SAVOR SUMMER. Notice and embrace the unplanned moments when family connection unfurls. “Our kids grow up fast and the summer seems to be shorter and shorter every year,” Kinney-Duh says. “Slowing down and savoring the moment is really what summer is all about.”

Simple Ways to Spend Time Together

• Explore a nature trail

• Camp under the stars

• Kayak

• Swim at night

• Try a new activity

• Take a family cooking class

• Plan a “do-nothing” day

• Play games

• Introduce your kids to an activity you loved at their age

Source: Shannon Kinney-Duh, A Free Spirit Life

AVOID THE &

9 FUN WAYS TO CURB SUMMER LEARNING LOSS

BY KIMBERLY BLAKER

Education experts have known for some time that kids who don’t go to school year-round experience summer learning loss. Still, most schools and districts have yet to extend the school year in light of this information.

Statistics on summer learning loss vary depending on the study. But those studies most commonly cited have found that kids lose an average of 2.6 months of math and 2 months of reading skills over the summer.

The good news, however, is there are ways to reduce your child’s summer learning loss. You can help your kids by providing them with plenty of educational and enrichment opportunities throughout the summer months. The following fun activities are suggested ways to keep your kids’ brains active. These activities will also help kids retain what they learned throughout the school year or even expand upon it.

KEEP ‘EM READING. Public libraries offer an array of summer programs for kids. Take your children to the library often for special programs. While you are there, have them sign out a variety of books to read during the summer.

PLAY WORD, MONEY, NUMBER AND LOGIC GAMES. Look for board, video, and computer games, particularly those that have won educational awards. You can also search online for ideas for games that don’t require any materials at all.

INCORPORATE LEARNING INTO YOUR TRAVELS. Before you go on your family vacation, do some advance research. Look for science centers, history museums and historical sites to build into your trip, then have your kids join you in mapping out the trip. This will help keep geography fresh in their minds while also learning map skills.

SUMMER JOURNALING. Give your child a journal to write in. It can be fancy or just a spiral notebook. If they haven’t kept a journal before, suggest they spend 20 minutes writing in it every night about their day’s adventures and activities. Let your child know it’s their private journal and promise not to read it unless they choose to share it with you. This might encourage your child to invest more time and thought into their journaling.

MESSY SCIENCE. If there’s anything kids love, it’s hands-on experiments. And summer is the perfect time for messy science experiments they can do outdoors. Pick up a kids’ science experiment book from your library, then have your child read through it and choose some experiments to do. Your child will learn a lot just from reading about the different experiments and will have a blast pulling them off.

SUMMER CAMP. Look for a summer camp that has a strong emphasis on learning activities. Find one that offers an array of activities that support a variety of subjects or one with a particular focus. You could let your child help choose one in an area that they excel in, or you could guide them in selecting one in an area of difficulty that will help them better grasp a particular subject.

BAKING AND COOKING. Not only is cooking fun, but it also helps kids in math and science. Have your kids choose a recipe they’d like to make, then have them make half a batch or triple it for more of a challenge calculating the measurements.

FORM A BOOK CLUB. This can be done in a couple of different ways, depending on the age of your kids. Kids of similar ages can choose one book each week for everyone to read, then they can meet to talk about the book they read. They can discuss the plot and characters, what they liked about it, didn’t like and something they learned. Another type of book club, especially for younger kids, will require more parent involvement. Create a logging system so each child can keep a record of the books they’ve read. At the end of the summer, hold a pizza party for all the participants. Create homemade certificates and give out inexpensive prizes to all the participants. The winner receives a special award.

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WORKBOOKS OR PUZZLE BOOKS. Give your child a workbook for the grade level he or she just finished. Have them work on it throughout the summer to keep what they learned fresh in their mind. Another fun option is a puzzle book. There’s a variety available, including math, logic, word search, crossword puzzles and more.

Reading is FUNdamental

KEEP THEIR BRAINS ENGAGED WITH THESE LOCAL LEARNING ACTIVITIES

Kids can sharpen their literacy skills all summer long through the Broward County Library’s Summer Learning Program. The program kicks off with the Children’s BookFest event from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 4th at the West Regional Library in Plantation. The family festival includes entertainers, Storywalk stations, take & make crafts and an opportunity to sign up for the Summer Learning program which is packed with reading activities, challenges and prizes all season long. Visit www.broward.org/library for more information.

There are also a variety of Summer Reading Kickoff activities planned at Miami-Dade Public Library branches on June 4th, including a wildlife show and juggling act. Additionally, the library system hosts a Wags & Words reading program where kids can gain confidence and improve literacy skills while reading to a therapy dog. A session will take place on Saturday, June 18 at the North Shore Branch. Visit www.mdpls.org for details.

In Palm Beach County, the Spanish River Library in Boca Raton hosts a Summer Reading Kickoff Party from 9 a.m. to noon on June 4th with music, games, cotton candy and snow cones. Visit www.myboca.us. The Palm Beach County Library System touts fun-filled learning programs throughout the summer as well. Visit www.pbclibrary.org.

Our mission is to develop a lifelong love of learning and self. Programs are taught in a loving, holistic, and sensitive environment that allows children to address issues of trust, self-esteem, and independence while building language, communication, music, art, and

On View through September 5

reserve tickets at frostscience.org

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

Sherlock Holmes: The Exhibition was developed by Exhibits Development Group and Geo rey M. Curley + Associates in collaboration with the Conan Doyle Estate Limited, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

Travel Wisely

MONEY-SAVING APPS FOR YOUR SUMMER VACATION

BY TANNI HAAS, PH.D.

Traveling in the summer can be very expensive, especially if you have a large family. Thankfully, there are many apps that can save you tons of money, whether you’re planning a fancy vacation abroad or a more modest road trip. Most people know about apps for Airbnb, TripAdvisor and Uber. But there are many other great travel apps. Here’s a list of some great ones. Best yet, they are all free.

AIRHELP (Available on Apple Appstore; Google Play)

When traveling by plane, we all hope that the flight will depart and arrive on time and with all our luggage on board and

intact. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. AirHelp will alert you if you’re eligible for compensation when your flight is delayed, overbooked, or canceled, and if your luggage is damaged, lost, or stolen. All you have to do is to scan your boarding pass.

BESTPARKING (Available on Apple Appstore; Google Play)

Road trips can be great fun but not when you can’t find a convenient and inexpensive place to park the car. Bestparking helps you find the right spot wherever you travel throughout North America. Indicate where you’d like to park and for how long, and the app generates a list of available spots and rates for the nearest lots and garages. You can search by address, landmarks or sites, or by neighborhood.

DAYUSE (Available on Apple Appstore; Google Play)

Sometimes, after a long flight or trip in the car, you need a place to rest or regroup for a few hours. When that happens, Dayuse comes in handy. This app lets you search, book and pay for hotel rooms for short stays. The cost can be up to 75 percent less than if you’d reserved a regular hotel room for the night. The app is available in Asia, Europe and North America.

GASBUDDY (Available on Apple Appstore; Google Play)

On a road trip, you don’t just need convenient and inexpensive places to park the car: you also need lots of gas. GasBuddy helps you find the cheapest gas at the nearest gas station. You can search in advance or as you’re traveling. The app also has a gas estimator, which calculates how much gas you need based on the car you’re driving and the distance you’re traveling.

HOTELTONIGHT (Available on Apple Appstore; Google Play)

If you’re a planner and like to organize everything in advance, then HotelTonight isn’t for you. But if you’re going on a last-minute trip, or if you don’t mind being spontaneous and reserving a hotel room once you get to your destination, this app can save you money. It lets you search nearby hotels and find the best last-minute deals. It includes ratings, reviews and photos from other travelers so you can see what to expect. It’s available in Asia, Europe, and North America.

ROME2RIO (Available on Apple Appstore; Google Play)

Whether you’re planning a domestic trip or a vacation abroad, there will be times when you can get to your destination in different ways. Rome2rio lets you compare different modes of transportation (bus, car, ferry, flight, train) and find the fastest and most inexpensive solution. All you have to do is to enter your location and ultimate destination, and the app will generate and compare all travel options. This app is available worldwide.

TRANSIT (Available on Apple Appstore; Google Play)

If you want to save even more money on

transportation costs, consider using public transportation whenever possible. For that, download Transit. This app saves you both money and time by letting you pull together departure times for all nearby buses and trains so you don’t have to look through individual schedules one at a time. Enter your desired destination, and the app displays all public transportation options as well as fares.

TURO (Available on Apple Appstore; Google Play)

If you need a car but don’t feel like renting one from one of the many, wellknown car rental companies, consider getting one from Turo. Much like Airbnb for accommodation, this is a peer-to-peer car rental app, which lets you rent cars directly from other car owners. You can expect to pay about 35 percent less than if you rented a car from a commercial rental company. The app is available in Europe and North America.

WiFi FINDER (Available on Apple Appstore; Google Play)

Whether you’re traveling at home or abroad, using your cell phone when WiFi isn’t available can be very expensive, with

high roaming charges. Get Wifi Finder. This app helps you find free Wifi all across Asia, Europe, North America and South America. Even if you’re not being charged extra for roaming on your phone, this app comes in handy — it helps you find places where you can use your tablet or laptop computer free of charge.

XE CURRENCY (Available on Apple Appstore; Google Play)

To make your vacation as inexpensive as possible, you need to know the foreign exchange rate. The more foreign currency you get for your dollars, the cheaper the place is for you. XE Currency helps you find affordable destinations by displaying the foreign exchange rate in real-time. You can monitor up to 10 different currencies simultaneously, which is especially useful if you’re visiting multiple countries.

Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences, and Disorders at the City University of New York –Brooklyn College.

Detective Dad

BAMBOOZLED EVERY TIME (I THINK)

BY RICK EPSTEIN

“There’s no silverware in my underpants!” said 3-yearold Wendy. Her mother, two sisters and I stared across the dinner table at her. We’d gotten about halfway through supper when Wendy issued her abrupt denial. I picked her up and gave her a light shake. Clink, clink. I set her down and frisked her, finding two spoons and a butter knife.

We laughed, but Wendy was angry. Angry with us for not trusting her? Angry with herself for bungling her first attempt

at deception? I couldn’t say. But I doubt it was her last attempt.

My dad used to come home from work, step over our school books, feel the crunch of cinnamon-sugar on the kitchen floor, see crumbs on the counter, find garments or toys in the hallway, smell smoke, and say, “I can tell exactly what you kids have been up to every minute since you got home from school. I hope you never become criminals.” His subtlety was wasted on me. Of course, he was telling us not to be such slobs, but I took it as career counseling. No problem. Ever since fourth grade, I’d wanted to be a detective, not a criminal.

Back then I would pick up cigarette butts in the street, check them for lipstick

and try to determine their brands. I acquired an ink pad and practiced fingerprinting myself. My evenings were spent sneaking around the house, spying on my parents and brothers.

Since then, people have generally quit smoking, the really smart detectives have moved on to DNA, and I’ve been told that my whole family knew I was spying on them. My dad even used the phrase “sneaking elephant” to describe my stealth.

Worse yet, fate is pitting me against a master of deceit. I think so anyway. I’m not really sure. It’s Wendy again, only now she’s 14. You’ve seen the movies in which a criminal knows a detective is shadowing him. He jumps on a bus and jumps off at

the next stop. He runs inside a tavern, slips out the men’s room window and then dashes away down an alley. Wendy is that slippery. I think.

At 6 o’clock on a school night, I go to fetch Wendy from her friend’s house so Wendy can eat with us and then do her homework. I arrive to find out that her hosts have just ordered Chinese food, and to take Wendy home would be to disrespect their kindness and dishonor a costly and delicious pint of General Tso’s chicken. Somehow the evening slips away and it’s 10 p.m. before Wendy has been recaptured.

Or I ferry a carload of girls to the movies, only to learn that Melissa’s mom won’t let her be at the theater unsupervised. If I leave, I’d have to take Melissa home, which would ruin everyone’s evening — and make Melissa’s mom doubt my fitness as a parent. I phone my wife to say she’ll be spending Saturday night alone.

In seeking permission to go with a more fun-loving family to an amusement park, Wendy assures me she’ll be home in time for Grandma’s birthday dinner. But she isn’t. Everyone was so hungry after a day of thrills and joy, the nice dad decided to stop at a restaurant. Do I call him and say, “Look, pal: You said you’d have Wendy home by 5:30! How would you like a knuckle sandwich?”?

Or I take Wendy to a “party” at her boyfriend’s house, only to learn later that no one else showed up and the two spent the evening alone in the privacy of his finished basement “watching TV.” Mom and Dad were upstairs the whole time pretending not to notice the house shaking from the hormonal pyrotechnics down in the love cave.

Is Wendy the helpless beneficiary of factors beyond her control or is she working me? I don’t know, but each time I walk right into the fog with my eyes wide open, and the next thing I know I’m gnashing my teeth in frustration. I get small consolation from remembering my glory days when I knew exactly what Wendy was up to. (I keep the butter knife anyway as a memento.)

Rick Epstein is a freelance writer and author who continues to unravel mysteries in his spare time.

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JuneEvents

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.

BASS PARK, 2750 NW 19 St., Fort Lauderdale, 954-828-6019, www.fortlauderdale.gov

World Ocean Day Celebration

SATURDAY, JUNE 11

Enjoy an afternoon of learning about the importance of our oceans and the benefits to our planet through arts and crafts, games and activities for all ages. 1-3pm, ANNE KOLB NATURE CENTER, 751 Sheridan St., Hollywood, www.broward.org/parks

Father’s Day Take & Make

SATURDAY, JUNE 11

Pick up a fun craft to make for dad at home beginning June 11, while supplies last. Ages 5-18. WEST REGIONAL LIBRARY, 8601 W. Broward Blvd. Plantation, www.broward.org/library

Downtown Hollywood ArtWalk

SATURDAY, JUNE 18

The downtown area comes alive with art, music, murals, outdoor markets and more. 6-11pm, DOWNTOWN HOLLYWOOD, www.hollywoodfl.org

Make Your Own Tie-Dye

SATURDAY, JUNE 18

BROWARD COUNTY

Sunny Days and Starry Nights

THURSDAY, JUNE 2

Participate in free museum exploration the first Thursday of every month. 11am-7pm, NSU ART MUSEUM FORT LAUDERDALE, One East Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, www.nsuartmuseum.org

Children’s Bookfest

SATURDAY, JUNE 4

This family fun festival with entertainers, storywalk stations and other activities, is the official kickoff of Broward County Library’s Summer Learning Program. 10am-3pm, WEST REGIONAL LIBRARY, 8601 W. Broward Broward Blvd., Plantation, www.broward.org/library

Caribbean Family Fun Day

SATURDAY, JUNE 4

Celebrate Caribbean Heritage Month with food, fun, games and a steel drum performance.

Noon-2pm, WATERS EDGE PARK, 7508 NW 61 St., Tamarac, www.tamarac.org

Eats ‘N’ Beats

SATURDAY, JUNE 4

Bring your family and your appetite to an outdoor event featuring live music and a variety of food trucks. Admission is free. 7-9pm, PARKLAND

AMPHITHEATER, 10561 Trails End, Parkland, www.cityofparkland.org

Sounds at Sundown

SATURDAY, JUNE 4

Move and groove with an evening of music on the covered field. Food trucks start serving at 5pm. Concert begins at 6pm. 5-10pm, MARGATE SPORTS COMPLEX, 1695 Banks Rd., Margate, www.margatefl.com

Story Time in the Children’s Garden

SUNDAY, JUNE 5

Gather in the shady, outdoor reading area to listen to a story about nature followed by some simple yoga exercises. Included with paid admission. 12:30-1:30pm, FLAMINGO GARDENS, 3750 S. Flamingo Rd., Davie, www.flamingogardens.org

Sea Turtle Walks

JUNE 7, 8, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28 & 30

An informative hands-on session about sea turtles is followed by a trip to the beach with expert guides to watch for turtles that have come to lay eggs. Be prepared to walk up to two miles. Ages 9 and up. $21. Pre-registration required. 8pm-1am, MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY AND SCIENCE, 401 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale, www.mods.org

Movie Night at Bass Park

FRIDAY, JUNE 10

See an outdoor movie at the park. Free. 6:30pm,

Have some old-fashioned fun making a tie-dye shirt and enjoying homemade ice cream. $18. Advance tickets required. 1-2:30pm, OLD DAVIE SCHOOL HISTORICAL MUSEUM, 6650 Griffin Rd., Davie, www.olddavieschool.org

Father’s Day Mangrove Stroll

SUNDAY, JUNE 19

Spend some special time with Dad on a guided boardwalk stroll through the mangrove swamp. 11-11:30am, ANNE KOLB NATURE CENTER, 751 Sheridan St., Hollywood, www.broward.org/parks

Movies in the Park

FRIDAY, JUNE 24

Bring chairs and blankets to watch an outdoor showing of Luca on an 18-foot inflatable movie screen. 8:15pm, PARKLAND

AMPHITHEATER, 10561 Trails End, Parkland, www.cityofparkland.org

Teddy Bear Picnic

SUNDAY, JUNE 26

Kids can bring their favorite stuffed bear for bear-themed activities, stories, face painting and a teddy bear beauty contest. $5/person. Noon-3pm, LONG KEY NATURE CENTER, 3501 SW 130 Ave., Davie, www.broward.org/parks

Roar & Explore Weekends

WEEKENDS THROUGH JUNE

Travel back in time with the interactive Dinosaurs in Motion exhibit, a dino dig pit, a dino-mite stage show and more. MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY AND SCIENCE, 401 SW Second Street, Fort Lauderdale, 954-467-6637 www.mods.org

Blue Man Group

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY Teen Event

Twilight Fridays at the Museum

FRIDAY, JUNE 3

An evening of free museum admission, live music and more. 6-10pm, CORAL GABLES MUSEUM, 285 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables, www.coralgablesmuseum.org

Gold Coast Free First Saturday

SATURDAY, JUNE 4

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

World Ocean Day

SUNDAY, JUNE 5

Dive into fun as you learn all about oceans and marine life while tackling the challenge of testing water quality and identifying mystery microplastics. World Ocean Day programming is free with paid admission. 11am-4pm, PHILLIP AND PATRICIA FROST MUSEUM OF SCIENCE, 1101 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, www.frostscience.org

Vizcaya Village

Farmers Market

SUNDAYS, JUNE 5, 12, 19 & 26

Discover fresh-made delicacies and handcrafted goods, fruits and vegetables, baked goods, vegan products and more. 9am-2pm, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, 3250 S. Miami Ave., Miami, www.vizcaya.org

Dog Date Stroll

SUNDAYS, JUNE 5, 12 & 26

Enjoy the beauty of the surroundings as you take a morning stroll with your pup. 8-10am, FAIRCHILD TROPICAL BOTANIC GARDEN, 10901 Old Cutler Rd., Miami, www.fairchildgarden.org

PALM BEACH COUNTY

Summer Reading Kickoff Party

SATURDAY, JUNE 4

Outdoor celebration includes music, games, airbrush tattoos, cotton candy, snow cones and more. 9am-noon, SPANISH RIVER LIBRARY, 1501 NW Spanish River Rd., Boca Raton, 561-393-7852

Sensory Saturdays

SATURDAY, JUNE 4

The first Saturday of every month the center opens early providing an adapted experience, with softened lighting, less crowds and decreased noise and visual stimulation, for those affected by autism spectrum disorder. 9-10am, COX SCIENCE CENTER AND AQUARIUM, 4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach, 561-832-1988 www.coxsciencecenter.org

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8

Teens in grades 7-12 can enjoy a night of activities with their peers. Pre-registration required. 7-9pm, GATEWAY CENTER, 151 Sunny Isles Blvd., 305-792-1706 www.sibfl.net

Family Day on Aragon

SATURDAY, JUNE 11

Enjoy a day of family fun activities, arts and crafts, live performances and more every second Saturday of the month. 3-6pm, CORAL GABLES MUSEUM, 285 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables, www.coralgablesmuseum.org

PAMM Free Second Saturdays

SATURDAY, JUNE 11

Participate in free hands-on activities, tours, performances and more. Admission is free all day with art-making from 1-4pm. PÉREZ ART MUSEUM MIAMI, 1103 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, www.pamm.org

All Things STEAM

SATURDAY, JUNE 11

Join the fun during this sensory-friendly afternoon filled with games, sensory stations and more. Registration required. All ages. 3-5pm, CORAL REEF BRANCH LIBRARY, 9211 Coral Reef Dr., Miami, www.mdpls.org

Origami Workshop

SATURDAY, JUNE 18

Turn flat pieces of paper into threedimensional works of art during this origami program.11am-12:30pm, CORAL REEF BRANCH LIBRARY, 9211 SW 152 St., Palmetto Bay, www.mdpls.org

The Juneteenth Experience

SUNDAY, JUNE 19

A multi-disciplinary performance celebrating freedom, black artists, culture, community and more. 8pm, NORTH BEACH BANDSHELL, 7275 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 786-453-2897 www.northbeachbandshell.com

Treasure Island

SATURDAY, JUNE 11

Set sail on adventure as the classic story comes to life on the stage. Recommended for pre-K and older. $8/adult, $6/child. 11am & 2pm, WILLOW THEATRE AT SUGAR SAND PARK, 300 Military Trail, Boca Raton, www.sugarsandpark.org

Hometown Hero Appreciation Day

SATURDAY, JUNE 18

A salute to Hometown Heroes with military vehicle demonstrations, meet and greets with armed forces, live science demonstrations, dunk the heroes tank, corn hole and more. Pre-registration required. 9am-3pm, COX SCIENCE CENTER AND AQUARIUM, 4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach, www.coxsciencecenter.org

Movies in the Park

SATURDAY, JUNE 25

Bring your lawn chairs and blankets for a

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.

Father’s Day Fishing Cruise

SUNDAY, JUNE 19

Spend time with Dad on a 3-hour catch and release fishing trip on Biscayne Bay. $45. 1-4pm, DEERING ESTATE, 16701 SW 72 Ave., Miami, 305-235-1668 www.deeringestate.org

Butterfly Walk

SATURDAY, JUNE 25

Take a stroll to check out some unique species of butterflies and a variety of habitats. DEERING ESTATE, 16701 SW 72 Ave., Miami, 305-235-1668 www.deeringestate.org

Everglades Engineer

SATURDAY, JUNE 25

Learn how to help native wildlife as you experiment with a variety of eco-friendly materials to design and engineer shelters, feeders and other backyard structures at the library. Ages 8-12. 11am-noon, MIAMI LAKES BRANCH LIBRARY, 6699 Windmill Gate Rd., Miami Lakes, www.mdpls.org

Blue Man Group

WEDNESDAY-SUNDAY, JUNE 29-JULY 3

An entertaining performance with signature drumming, creativity and quirky comedy. 8pm, ADRIENNE ARSHT CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, www.arshtcenter.org

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

Nature Connects

THROUGH AUGUST 28

Explore 82-acres of paradise as you discover 30 giant sculptures built with over 700,000 LEGO bricks. FAIRCHILD TROPICAL BOTANIC GARDEN, 10901 Old Cutler Rd., Miami, www.fairchildgarden.org

screening of Tom & Jerry in the park. 8:30-10:30pm, OLD SCHOOL SQUARE, 51 N. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach, www.delraybeachfl.gov

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

to sign up for our weekly Family Fun e-newsletter

And view our extensive online Calendar of Events at www.southfloridafamilylife.com

Bye-bye Baby Girl

FROM CRADLE TO COMMENCEMENT

BY SHANNON PEASE-SEVERANCE

I started this story 18 years ago.

It was March 5, 2004, the day of my sonogram, and a milestone I marked in a pregnancy journal that I kept while anxiously awaiting the arrival of my first-born daughter.

I remember that day like it was yesterday. I pulled a blue jean dress over my blossoming belly and rushed to the appointment. I told myself — and my husband — for the first five months of pregnancy that the baby’s gender would be a surprise. We’d paint the nursery pale yellow, buy neutral-colored onesies and wait for Baby’s birthday to find out what we were having. But as soon as it was time for that “all-knowing” appointment, there would be no more wondering. I had to find out.

With that, I wrote to her as often as I could — everything from my crazy cravings to my hopes and dreams to the feelings I had when I held her tiny hand in mine and looked into her big blue eyes for the very first time. I safely tucked the keepsake into a dresser drawer where it has been cocooned like a time capsule for nearly two decades. I knew I would give her the memento when she graduated high school, I just didn’t know the day would come so soon.

My mom cautioned me when both of my girls were babies, “they grow up in the blink of an eye.” A Super Mom who raised seven, she spoke from experience. And, as usual, she was right.

As a new parent, the days can seem so long. Around-the-clock feedings and sleepless nights blur into first-filled days — first steps, first teeth, first words. Soon, the pace of life speeds up,

and before you know it, school, activities and childhood friends fill the hours, days, weeks, years. Suddenly, it’s 18 years later. Did I blink?

I thought I had more time to continue to tackle all of those teachable moments before she left the nest. Don’t text and drive. Don’t mix bleach and ammonia. Don’t underestimate yourself. Ever. Both of my girls will tell you that I turn a lot of experiences into life lessons. This is by design. Hopefully, those lessons that I shared — which at one time may have inspired an “Aw, Mom!” and an eye-roll — will now raise a thoughtful eyebrow instead. But as much as I have taught my children, I’ve learned so much more from them. To love selflessly. To live humbly. To seize every moment. And as quickly as time may pass, I’ve learned to slow down, be present, and fully appreciate the here and now.

So on graduation day when my daughter puts on her cap, I’ll be tipping mine, to her hard work, determination and perseverance; and to all of her remarkable attributes that are far too many to list. I am so very proud of the amazing young woman she has become.

And as she walks across the stage with her diploma in hand, one chapter will close, but another one filled with wonder, excitement and opportunity will open. I will be right there to watch her story unfold, with my eyes wide open.

Shannon Pease-Severance is a writer, South Florida Family Life’s assistant editor, and a mom of two fabulous girls who have grown up way too fast.

The Nicklaus Children’s Orthopedic, Sports Medicine & Spine Institute provides compassionate care centered around patients and their families. That’s one reason we are among the most successful programs in the nation for treating spinal disorders in children and teens. Our expert team of spine specialists has been influential in the development of some of the latest and most innovative techniques in spine and scoliosis surgery, supporting our mission to give every child a chance for a productive and happy life.

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Rosario has congenital scoliosis and a fighting chance