Miami Dade Family Life February 2019

MIAMI-DADE

COMPLIMENTARY

FEBRUARY 2019

CAMP connections OUR ANNUAL GUIDE TO SUMMER FUN

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FEBRUARY 2019

departments 8 MIAMI & MORE News about the people, places and events in our community.

24 FAMILY MAN A husband’s tribute to his wife and a marriage that endures — despite the kids.

26 HOME TECH Everything you need to know about Twitch, the live-streaming gaming site.

28 CALENDAR OF EVENTS Entertaining and noteworthy things to see and do in every corner of Miami-Dade County.

30 WORDS OF WISDOM A little girl’s lost tooth becomes a mom’s teaching moment.

ON THE COVER: Joey Purdum, 12, of Coral Springs A Cover Angels winner Location: Camp Live Oak at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, Fort Lauderdale Photographer: Lisa Nalven

features

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DRUM ROLL, PLEASE

KID CRUSH

TARGETING THE PERFECT CAMP

Introducing the winners and runners-up in our annual Cover Angels contest, along with our Charity of the Year.

And meet our Cover Angels photographer.

The dos and don’ts of dealing with very young valentines.

It’s never too soon to start planning for summer. Our special section highlights some of the best summer camps in Miami and more.

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SCHEDULE YOUR MATERNITY TOUR TODAY.

LOVE NEEDS NO INSTRUCIONS Love always knows what’s best. But for a new parent, every piece of advice helps.

At Jackson Health System, we offer prenatal classes, breastfeeding instruction, and support groups to help build your confidence. Jackson’s dedicated maternity team is by your side — before and after you meet the newest love of your life.

LOVE IS LIFE.

We are proud to be designated a Baby-Friendly Hospital for giving mothers the skills and support needed to feed and bond with their child.

Jackson Memorial Hospital Jackson North Medical Center Jackson South Medical Center Designated 2017 – 2022

Call 305-585-4MOM or visit JacksonMaternity.org.

MIAMI-DADE

Our mission is to enrich family life in Miami-Dade County 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 Greg Carannante ASSOCIATE EDITOR Shannon Pease-Severance SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGERS Suzy Miguelez • Sheila Ranson ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Aileen Gardner 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@browardfamilylife.com

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For information on where to find Miami-Dade Family Life, or to become a distributor, call 954-424-7405 or e-mail info@miamidadefamilylife.com Comments and suggestions are welcome.

Miami-Dade Family Life is published twelve times per year by Family Life Media Group. It is distributed free of charge throughout Miami-Dade County. Miami-Dade 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 Miami-Dade 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.

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February 2019 | M I A M I - D A D E F A M I LY L I F E

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MIAMI

Broadway Under the Big Top A NEW KIND OF CIRCUS IS COMING TO TOWN

H

e may not be the second coming of P.T. Barnum, but Peter Venardos is all about doing for the circus what “the greatest showman” did almost 150 years ago.

“P.T. Barnum didn’t invent circus. He reinvented it,” says the ringmaster, producer and owner of the Venardos Circus, which sets up its custom-made big top in Miami Feb. 6-24. “He took it from what it was and he found creative ways to get people excited about it.”

Venardos’s own reinvention retains the thrills of the traditional center ring, loses the animals and blends it all with the charms of another grand American institution of showmanship — the Broadway musical.

“I’m trying to attract a different kind of audience — children of all ages, still — but I’ve taken something that I love, musicals, and I’ve put it inside the circus,” says Venardos, whose circus life goes back nearly half his 43 years when he became ringmaster for the Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus at age 22.

“It’s like a Broadway show that’s inside of a tent that has circus acts. I do have comedy and acrobats and all kinds of spectacle and magic that a circus might once have had. I just package them in a way that no other circus is really doing — in this way that’s meant for families.”

“The things about Broadway’s shows that I always loved are the ways that music can be used to tell a story and to delight and engage the senses and the emotion,” says Venardos, whose 5-year-old circus will perform 320 shows this year, 24 of them here. “Wanting to forge an emotional connection with those people that come to see the circus is at the top of my list of priorities. I want to amaze them and astound them, but I want to touch their hearts. And music does that in a way that nothing else does.”

Want to go?

What: Venardos Circus Where: The Palms at Town and Country Mall, 8268 Mills Dr., Miami When: Feb. 6-24, various showtimes.

An interactive pre-show party begins one hour before each showtime with opportunities to meet the cast, snap selfies and play games.

Cost: General admission tickets are $25; $15, under 12 years; free, 18 months and younger; reserved seating, $35-$45.

For more information: visit www.VenardosCircus.com

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Photo by Kirk Marsh

“I’m grateful for the circus fans out there in the world. But all of my efforts are really focused on the people that don’t have any experience with circus,” says Venardos, whose own “juggling act” of producing the circus is complemented by the 13 performers who also do everything from putting up the tents to staffing the concessions.

Venardos is hoping that something deeper than oohs and ahhs springs from all their efforts.

“I’m trying my best with every breath to invigorate and engage communities. We are forging relationships with individuals, families and communities. It’s being together — that’s the part that’s connected to tradition. And my goal is to make annual events of the places we visit.”

For the Miami visit, Venardos’s intimate, red-and-white-striped tent will be set up at The Palms at Town and Country Mall, 8268 Mills Dr., in the field between Kohl’s and Dick’s Sporting Goods.

“I think people felt sad when Ringling closed [in 2017] because they felt it belonged to them and someone had taken it away from them… some happy memory from their childhood,” the ringmaster says. “Even with all the negative energy with animals in recent years, it still has a pang on the heart. That was built over years, generations even, of sharing an experience.

“And I want to do that. I want to remind people that they still have many things that belong to them.”

FOOD FESTIVAL OFFERS FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY… EVEN FIDO Sure, the South Beach Food and Wine Festival is a sensational smorgasboard of gustatory delights for grownups.

But you don’t have to be an adult to indulge yourself at the 18th annual Food Network & Cooking Channel showcase of renowned chefs, culinary personalities and wine and spirits producers. Among its more than 100 events Feb. 20-24, there are some special treats for the whole family, too — even the family pet.

For instance, there’s Goya Foods’ Fun and Fit as a Family, featuring Kidz Kitchen, 10am-5pm, Feb 23-24 at Jungle Island. Food Network and Cooking Channel personalities and South Florida chefs will help parents and kids learn the basics of a healthy lifestyle. Also, participants can partake of hands-on learning experiences and healthy bites as they explore the recently revamped grounds of Jungle Island, 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Miami.

At the Family Ice Cream Social, foodies of all ages can have some fun in the sun while sampling cool and creative treats from more than a dozen South Florida spots. Hosted by cake authority and festival favorite Buddy Valastro, of TV’s Cake Boss, the soiree is from 3-5pm, Feb. 24 at the Loews Miami Beach Hotel, 1601 Collins Ave., Miami Beach.

The hotel is also host to a popular event that’s turned family-friendly for the first time this year. Designed especially for four-legged connoisseurs, Nulo Pet Food’s Yappie Hour is hosted by cookbook author and food critic Katie Lee, of The Kitchen TV show.

Lee, joined by her puppy Gus and other notable pooches, will serve up refreshments for people and tasty pet treats from Nulo Pet Food from 4-6:30pm, Feb. 23.

All proceeds from the festival benefit the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at Florida International University. For more information, please visit www.sobewff.org

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IN A PLACE CALLED BUBBLELANDIA Just when you think you’ve seen it all, along comes a bubblicious modern fairy tale that literally bubbles over with… bubbles!

B - The Underwater Bubble Show, Feb. 22 at the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center, uniquely blends the beauty of soap bubbles with drama, mime, dance, puppetry, juggling, contortionism, sand art and magic in a laser-lit, special-effects musical production for the entire family. Think Cirque du Soleil meets giant bubbles.

The story begins when Mr. B finds himself transported to a magical, undersea place called Bubblelandia. There, mermaids, seahorses, starfish and giant sharks cavort and carry him along his imaginary journey through an endless ocean of bubbles.

Such stage effects as snow cannons, soap bubble tornadoes, theatrical fog, gigantic smoke rings, and smoke-filled soap bubble machines are among Bubblelandia’s surprises.

The performance is captured by live video on a large screen. Highly interactive and with no spoken words, the all-musical production is engaging for even young children.

Tickets for the show, at 8pm, are $20-$35. The center is at 10950 SW 211 St., Cutler Bay. For more information, please visit www.smdcac.org

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February 2019 | M I A M I - D A D E F A M I LY L I F E

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2019

Congratulations SPONSORED BY

INTRODUCING THE WINNERS

of Broward and Miami-Dade Family Life’s 2019 Cover Angels Contest.

Watch for these adorable faces on our cover in the coming year.

We’re also pleased to announce that Best Buddies South Florida has been selected as our Charity of the Year. The organization will receive a donation courtesy of Cambridge Schools, the exclusive sponsor of our Cover Angels contest.

E IC HO C S’ ER D A RE

Aspen Preston, 3 yrs.

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BROW A R D Longsworth, F A M I LY L I F E 9| Khloe

Angelene Marie Avila Sancerni, 3 yrs.

browardfamilylife.com yrs.

Dylan Friedman, 5 yrs.

Joey Purdum, 11 yrs.

Kaylah Hussain, 5 yrs.

RUNNERS UP

OUR CHARITY OF THE YEAR

Lucas Stefano, 8 mos.

Amber Goodman, 5 yrs.

Abigail Hood-Julien, 3 yrs.

Janiyah Hood-Julien, 3 yrs.

Noah Mendes, 6 yrs.

Makayla Moncaleano, 4 yrs.

Best Buddies of South Florida Best Buddies International, headquartered in South Florida, wants people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to become so integrated into schools, workplaces and communities that the organization itself goes out of business.

The nonprofit, the world’s largest of its kind, is creating a global volunteer movement providing opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment and leadership development for the IDD community, including people with Down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury and other disabilities.

Founded by Anthony Kennedy Shriver, Best Buddies has grown from its original chapter in 1989 to more than 2,300 chapters and 120,000 participants in 50 states and 50 countries — with 381 chapters in middle schools and 1,175 in high schools.

Best Buddies South Florida has offices in Miramar and Miami, which is where Shriver resides. One of its main programs is its Friendship program, which works with schools from elementary to college.

“A school will do a club rush, 20 general education students sign up and we match them with 20 students who have a disability, so they can be their friend, so they can be included socially,” says Tessie Ann Gonzalez, South Florida program supervisor. “They’ll go bowling or to the movies, they’ll have holiday parties — just so that the person with special needs can do whatever we do.”

Among the schools participating in South Florida are Gulliver Preparatory School and Coral Park High School in Miami, and Cooper City High School in Broward.

“Cooper City is one of our best programs,” Gonzalez says. “It’s one of the schools that raises the most money for our walk.”

This year’s Best Buddies Friendship Walk is on March 16, featuring a 1-mile Competitive Run, a 5K Walk and a Family Festival with a free lunch for all. The free event is at Museum Park, 1075 Biscayne Blvd., Miami.

“All fundraising is done leading up to the big day,” Gonzalez says, “which is all about celebrating friendship and inclusion!”

For more information, please visit www.bestbuddies.org/florida. For a Best Buddy success story, please visit southfloridafamilylife.com

Month 2017 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

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e ov L LENS in the

Our cover photographer’s passion is focusing on children — sick or well

BY GREG CARANNANTE

L

isa Nalven is a photographer with a panoramic heart.

She calls herself a photo philanthropist, and while for 10 years she has taken the portraits of the Cover Angels for this magazine, she also is passionate about using her talents in service of those less fortunate.

“I love working with the under-served — whether it is children with cancer or disabilities, old people, homeless people. It’s what gives me joy,” says Nalven. “I’m very lucky that when you do pictures, it makes people happy, especially when someone is going through a hard time. It captures love, is what it does.”

Nalven “captures love” with her camera by documenting life for a young cancer patient who, for a little while, gets to escape the burden of the disease while posing and primping for a photo shoot.

Or by taking portrait shots of children in a foreign orphanage and then giving the prints to them.

And while she travels near and far to offer the gift of photography to children and families in places like Cuba, Haiti, Nepal and Bali, she does most of her volunteer work locally for several charities, like the Special Olympics and Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital.

“I photograph people in the neonatal and pediatric intensive care units that are being taken off life-support,” says Nalven, a Broward resident. “I work with the palliative care team. If a child’s outcome is iffy or they’re being taken off life support, I drop everything to go. I’ve been there when children are taking their dying breaths… because people don’t have photographs.”

Nalven’s work was recognized a few years ago in news reports about 27-year-old cancer patient Nicole Moore Zimmerman, who became a social media sweetheart with millions of hits. Too ill to leave MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, the bride was married in the hospital. And Nalven, who was there visiting her brother, became the impromptu wedding photographer.

“I feel really blessed to have met her, to have seen her strength, to be able to be a part of something so beautiful,” says Nalven, who visited the newlywed in hospice a week after the wedding to give her the photos. “I watched while she looked at her pictures at how happy they made her — and I know she was in pain. It was heartbreaking.

I don’t usually break down, but when I left there I cried.

“For some reason, I can be there when people are ill or very old and be able to capture moments and have some sort of intimacy.

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Being ill isn’t necessarily depressing. It’s still a person. We are so uncomfortable with the reality of life that people get weird. If a child is sick, someone doesn’t call. Somebody died, people don’t know what to say, so they just don’t do it.

“So my thing is to demystify it. I like to be the equalizer and photograph people and make them look beautiful and normal, no matter how they present. That’s why my blog is called Our Collective Humanity, because we’re really all the same. It’s just life.”

Of course, it’s not the same, but photographing children’s portraits for Broward and Miami-Dade Family Life covers presents its own challenges.

“With children, you have to be patient,” says Nalven, who attributes her skills at “choreographing photos” to her early career as a modern dancer. “My energy level is kind of crazy for the fact that I’m 63. I will do anything. I will resort to any humor that I have to. I don’t settle for a halfway smile.

“I barely ever in my life have had a kid that I couldn’t make smile. Because I love kids looking happy and beautiful. I love the pureness of children.”

For more information, please visit Nalven’s website, www.lisanalvenphotography.com

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February 2019 | M I A M I - D A D E F A M I LY L I F E

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KidCrush

The DOS and DON’TS of DEALING with VERY YOUNG VALENTINES

BY SANDRA GORDON “Oh, how cute.”

That’s what crossed my mind when a boy from summer camp asked my oldest daughter to go to the movies. She was in the fourth grade at the time. (She said “No!” and ran from the phone.)

But as I witnessed, a first crush — whether your child initiates the romantic attention or she’s on the receiving end — is definitely anything but adorable from her perspective.

“Crushes are serious,” says family therapist Julia Simens.

Like me, she speaks from experience. When her son, Grant, was 11, he wrote a children’s book, Spirit of Saint Valentine: An Expat’s Tale of Love, which is about love in an international elementary school.

“I hadn’t given crushes much thought until Grant opened my eyes to how important they are from a kid’s point of view,” Simens says.

The fact is, Cupid’s arrow can strike kids as young as 7 or 8. And though it’s easy to trivialize this experience, a child’s emotions are just as real as the fervor we might experience when we’re infatuated.

“Kids can fall in love by all developmental measures as soon as you can begin to measure their feelings,” says Carleton Kendrick, a family therapist and author of Take Out Your Nose Ring, Honey, We’re Going to Grandma’s. “There’s no such thing as puppy love.”

Crushes are a healthy part of life. Besides being good practice for the future, they can teach kids a lot about relationships and themselves.

On the other hand, they can also be a source of pain and difficulty for your child, especially into the preteen and teen years.

“When the hormones kick in, kids have more of a physical response to a crush and that can be confusing because they’ve already got so much going on emotionally — from trying to figure out their identity to how to fit in socially, academically, and within the family,” says Stephanie Haen, a licensed clinical social worker.

Though you may not always need to get involved, there are things you can do — and things you shouldn’t — to help your child deal with love’s first blush. After counseling hundreds of parents on this issue, our experts weigh in on the dos and don’ts of managing this tender milestone.

DO: Have talks, not “the talk.” Help your elementary-age child prepare to deal with a crush, which is a distant cousin to dating, by having an ongoing dialogue from a young age in a way she can understand about being respectful of her own body and herself. Then, as your child ages into the preteen and teen years, keep talking. These days, preteens and teens can put pressure on each other to add sexual exploration to the equation under the misguided notion that if it’s a crush without sex, it’s not really love.

“This is a big change from what it used to be like with kids 10 or 15 years ago,” says Kendrick, who has been in practice for 30 years.

So be aware of what’s going on, and acknowledge it with your child.

“You might say: ‘You might feel pressured. But you don’t have to do anything. You need to trust your feelings of being uncomfortable.

And even if you’re a little bit curious, that doesn’t mean you have to say yes,’” he says.

A good way to start to bring up tough subjects like these and get your child talking is: “Gee, I’ve read that…” Then fill in the blank with what you want to address, such as, “... girls are having oral sex and they’re only 13. Do you think that’s going on at your school?” Keeping the discussion going — despite all the eye rolling — lets your child know that you know what she might be going through and builds trust so she is more likely to come to you for advice if she needs to.

Let your child learn from the experience. If your child has a crush and it’s unrequited, don’t trivialize it by saying things like, “Oh, you’ll get over it,” or “Well, that was just puppy love.” Instead, console him and let him be upset and grieve the loss. But also stress that rejection is a normal part of life and dating — that you don’t always find the right person and your feelings are not always reciprocated, Haen says.

Teach your child how to deal with unwanted romantic attention. If another child has a crush on your child and it’s not mutual, encourage your child to politely nip it in the bud. Role play at home and have him practice an “I’m not interested” script, such as, “Thanks for all the notes, but I really wish you wouldn’t give them to me anymore because continued on page 16

Preteen relationships need proactive parents

BY DENISE YEARIAN Boys and girls have always been attracted to one another, but the age attraction begins varies greatly from one person to another. For some, those feelings of attraction start in late elementary school. For others, it’s not until high school.

But when a child of 9 or 10 years begins to show romantic interest in another, parents need to be proactive in communicating and establishing guidelines. Remember the way he or she views and conducts relationships now paves the way for future dating relationships. Here are some tips to help: GET THEIR VIEWS. Ask your child how he or she defines “dating,” “going out” or “having a boyfriend/girlfriend.”

Then share your views. Reinforce the need to always respect others and oneself. If the relationship has gelled, ask open-ended questions in a casual way so you know how it’s progressing: “What do you like about this boy?”

“What do you have in common?” “How does he treat you?”

“Who are his friends?” “How do you feel about them?”

“Do you feel respected by this person?” This gets your child thinking about what is important in a relationship.

ESTABLISH AND DISCUSS RELATIONSHIP BOUNDARIES. These could include not being alone with the boy or girl, having parental supervision at home, not being allowed in each other’s bedrooms, no touching, staying in group settings and having a curfew, to name a few. Equally important is to help your preteens understand why these boundaries are there so they begin to develop an internal compass.

Set expectations in other realms of life. Remind your preteen the importance of remaining focused on academics and extracurricular activities, as well as maintaining current friendships.

MONITOR MEDIA EXPOSURE. The messages young people receive from music, TV, movies, books and magazines are laden with love, sex and relationships. Make sure these messages line up with your family’s values. If you see or hear something questionable, use it as an opportunity to discuss your values in a non-confrontational way. Realize your preteens may question your values, particularly if they don’t line up with media messages or their friends’ values. This is normal and means they are questioning, but not necessarily rejecting, what you embrace. continued on page 16

Young Valentines continued from page 15 they’re upsetting me.” If that doesn’t work, call the other child’s parents.

(If you’ve got a child in middle school or beyond, talk to your child first, before making that phone call.)

Unwanted attention feels like pressure for children of all ages. Kids on the receiving end of crushes can suffer from psychosomatic symptoms, such as stomachaches and headaches, and not want to go to school.

“It’s the same kind of thing I’ve witnessed with kids who’ve been bullied,” Kendrick says.

Monitor the situation. Kids, especially tweens and teens, in reciprocal crushes can take things to the extreme by texting or Snapchatting until all hours, for example, or spending lots of their free time with each other because they’re mimicking what they’ve observed in their older siblings or adults. So be sure to set boundaries, such as curfews and limits on computer and phone time, to help your child balance his responsibilities with his social life.

If you get the sense, though, that your child must have contact with his crush to get through the day, or that he’s no longer spending time with his friends or concentrating on his school work because he’s so focused on his crush, or that his behavior could change into stalking, he may need professional help to sort out why the crush has become obsessive.

“It could be a sign of something else that’s going on in his life,” says Haen. “Kids might cling to a crush if things are rocky at home between their parents, they’re struggling in school for the first time or something’s going on in their social circle.”

DON’T: Out your child’s crush. “One of the most dangerous things I see parents do is comment on their child’s crush in front of the child to other adults or — horrors — to their child’s friends,” says Simens.

Such insensitivity leads to embarrassment and undermines the confidence your child has in you. If your child can’t trust you with that sensitive information, how can he trust you with other important stuff in the future?

“You want your kids to know they can come to you with questions and talk to you without being judged or made fun of,” Haen says.

Micromanage your child’s love life. If you know your preteen or teenager has a crush on someone, don’t fan the flames by suggesting, for example, that she tell that person how much she likes him.

“Imposing your more adult-oriented behavior onto the situation can lead your child to go further with a crush than she was wishing or contemplating,” says Kendrick. This can make her feel uncomfortable.

If you’ve got a child in elementary school, however, it may be appropriate to suggest and arrange a play date with the object of your child’s affection, if your son or daughter would like that. But it’s not healthy for kids in elementary school to “date.” That sort of exclusivity with another person limits your child socially.

“Kids need many options to make connections with people beyond the boy or girl they have a crush on,” says Kendrick.

Say yes to sleepovers. “Today’s parents struggle with setting limits in general,” says Haen. So if your child asks to, say, have a sleepover with her mutual crush (it happens), say no, but in a respectful way. (Sleepovers with crushes of the opposite sex, in elementary school and beyond, aren’t age appropriate.)

Keep it neutral by saying something like, “It’s really nice you like hanging out with Jimmy, but a sleepover isn’t going to take place.”

Keep in mind that when it comes to crushes, your child can be crushed by your reaction to it.

“It’s never instructive or healthy to belittle or shame your child about it,” Kendrick says.

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Proactive Parents continued from page 15

KNOW THEIR FRIENDS. They have a tremendous influence on the way your child thinks, talks and acts. Open your home and encourage your preteen to invite his or her friends over so you can know them and see how they interact.

DISCUSS DRESS. Share with your preteen that the way we dress sends a message to others. Clothing should be modest and should not have provocative messages written on it. Set the standard by being a good role model in the way you dress.

HONOR PRIVACY… TO A POINT. Reserve the right to inspect your preteen’s backpack or room if he or she becomes secretive or begins to show other signs that concern you.

LEND EMOTIONAL SUPPORT. Most preteen relationships are short-lived. When the relationship ends, your child may or may not be hurt, but your sensitivity and empathy toward the situation will build a healthy trust and bond between you.

CONSIDER THESE RESOURCES: • For Young Women Only by Shaunti Feldhahn and Lisa Rice • How To Talk So Kids Will Listen and Listen So Kids Will Talk

by Adele Faber • You and Your Adolescent Revised Edition by Lawrence Steinberg, Ph.D. • Raising a Thinking Preteen: The “I Can Problem Solve” Program for 8- to 12-Year-Olds

by Myrna Shure and Roberta Israeloff • Roller-coaster Years by Charlene C. Giannetti and Margaret Sagarese

CAMP connections YOUR GUIDE TO SUMMER FUN

TARGET PERFECT

the

CAMP forYOUR

CHILD

BY CHERYL MAGUIRE

I

t used to be that when it came to summer camp, families usually only had one choice: the town camp.

This was a traditional all-day camp with a heavy emphasis on sports. When a kid came home after six hours at camp, a common complaint — especially from a less-athletic youngster — might go something like: “It was so hot and all we did was play (fill in a sport). Do I have to go to camp tomorrow?”

By the end of the summer, no doubt a lot of moms were left wishing there’d been other options.

Now there are so many choices it can be overwhelming to figure out what type of camp would be a good fit for your child. Hopefully, the following descriptions will help you to match your child with the appropriate camp so that when he or she comes home, you hear: “Camp was so much fun today! I can’t wait for tomorrow.”

TRADITIONAL DAY CAMP These camps last six hours (half-day options may be available) and offer a range of activities, such as sports, swimming, art and music. They are located at YMCAs, community centers, public schools, parks or private settings.

Many activities are outside, so if your child loves the outdoors and playing sports or team-building activities, then this is a good camp for them. The variety of activities also makes it a good fit for a child that likes to try different things.

SPORTS Specialty sports camps usually focus on a sport like basketball or soccer that the child plays for either three or six hours.

Depending on where you live, there are also camps for tennis, golf, surfing or sailing.

These camps are typically owned by private organizations, though there are also some that are operated municipally.

This is a great option for those youngsters who love a specific sport and want to improve their skills. It’s also a good way for kids to try a sport that they might not otherwise have exposure to, such as surfing.

ART/MUSICAL THEATER These specialty camps focus solely on the arts. Musical theater camps

typically showcase a production, such as Beauty and the Beast, while an art camp exposes children to a variety of mediums, like painting and drawing. These camps are found at art schools, theaters and other organizations. A drama or art teacher usually runs the camp and students are encouraged to tap into their artistic side.

If your child is creative and prefers the indoors, then these camps are worth looking into. They may be a good way to introduce your child to the arts, since many of them operate on a week-by-week basis.

EDUCATIONAL These camps center on learning a new skill or subject matter, with an emphasis on fun and hands-on activities. They are typically located in public or private schools, museums and colleges.

If your child is curious and inquisitive about how and why things work, this may be a good match. Some educational camps offer instruction in skills like computer programming or speaking Spanish.

OVERNIGHT CAMP/SLEEPAWAY These camps give your child the opportunity to live away from home for a week or longer.

There are Boy/Girl Scout and private residential camps. They offer such activities as sailing, boating, archery, horseback riding or others that may not be available close to home.

An overnight camp lets your child meet kids from different states and countries.

They tend to foster independence, and there is also more time for activities compared to traditional day camps.

TRAVEL There are two types of travel camps. One offers day trips and the other, sometimes referred to as “teen tours,” offers travel with a group for an extended period, usually a few weeks or a month. This type of camp is usually located at religious or private organizations.

Some feature air travel to faraway places, so your child may have the chance to visit destinations you might not travel to as a family. If your child enjoys experiencing new destinations, then this is the camp for him.

February 2019 | M I A M I - D A D E F A M I LY L I F E

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

General Day Camps AMERICAN HERITAGE SUMMER DAY CAMPS •Plantation: 12200 W. Broward Blvd.

954-472-0022 ext. 3043 •Delray Beach: 6200 Linton Blvd. 561-637-2440 www.ahsummerprograms.com Day Camp and Specialty Camps are offered at each campus. Some of the many camp activities include: indoor and outdoor sports, swimming, archery, nature center, art rooms, technology labs, game rooms, field trips, carnivals, animal encounters, and magic shows. Specialty Camps: Robotics, Science Adventure, Video Production, Musical Theatre, Art, Lacrosse, Baseball, Softball, Soccer, and Tennis.

BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS 305-446-9910 www.bgcmia.org • Gwen Cherry, 7090 NW 22 Ave., Miami, 305-694-4889 • Hank Kline, 2805 SW 32 Ave., Miami, 305-446-2654 • Kendall, 9475 N. Kendall Dr., Miami, 305-279-3013 • Northwest, 10915 NW 14 Ave., Miami, 305-758-5753 • South Beach, 1200 Michigan Ave., Miami Beach, 305-535-0070 Children participate in an all day summer enrichment program that focuses on social and cultural experiences, recreation, team building and educational activities. Activities include a computer lab, game room, arts and crafts, literacy classes, a movie room, physical fitness, field trips and more.

CAMP J AT ALPER JCC MIAMI 11155 SW 112 Ave., Miami 305-271-9000 www.alperjcc.org Camp J Miami strives to build confidence, stretch imaginations and teach new skills. Campers from infants through grade 9 participate in age-appropriate favorites including sports, art, swim instruction, field trips and more. Camp runs June 17-August 9.

CAMP KLURMAN AT THE MIAMI BEACH JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER 4221 Pine Tree Dr., Miami Beach 305-534-3206 www.mbjcc.org/camp Camp Klurman is about making memories that last a lifetime. Program includes traditional day camp activities, field trips, Jewish culture and more.

Camp runs June 11-August 16.

CAMP SOL TAPLIN AT THE MICHAEL-ANN RUSSELL JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER

LOOKING FOR SUMMER FUN?

Summertime gives kids an opportunity to discover hidden talents, and to have some fun. Here are some local programs designed to let your kids shine.

18900 NE 25 Ave., North Miami Beach 305-932-4200 www.marjcc.org/campsoltaplin Camp Sol Taplin features more than 20 camps serving children ages 2-15. Campers are encouraged to take a journey of self-discovery as they develop new skills and confidence.

Activities include aquatics, art, dance, theatre, robotics, cooking, coding, cheerleading, drone, sports and more. Camp runs June 11-August 2.

MIAMI CHILDREN’S MUSEUM 980 MacArthur Causeway, Miami 305-373-5437 www.miamichildrensmuseum.org Explorers Summer Camp, for ages 4-10, allows children to explore art, music, dance, performance, language, literacy and more. The museum also offers a Summer Camp with age-appropriate activities for children ages 12 months to 3 years.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION 305-755-7800 www.miamidade.gov/parks The third largest county park system in the United States offers a variety of fun-filled summer camp choices including nature exploration, sports, aquatic adventures, performing arts, and more.

Visit website for details.

through daily language class followed by a true camp experience including both outdoor and indoor activities, horseback riding, soccer, basketball, Gaga ball, volleyball, table tennis, archery, fishing, ropes, RC Track, arts, crafts, pottery, gardening, culture, field trips, water days, dance, music, and more. A Leader in Training (LIT) program is offered to teens. Early bird pricing available.

YMCA OF SOUTH FLORIDA ASSOCIATION OFFICE

FROST MUSEUM OF SCIENCE

305-357-4000 www.ymcasouthflorida.org Y Membership Family Centers: • Homestead YMCA, 1034 NE Eighth St., Homestead, 305-248-5189 • North Pointe YMCA, 735 NW 186 St., Miami, 786-433-9622 • South Dade YMCA Family Center, 9355 SW 134 St., Miami, 305-254-0310 • Village of Allapattah YMCA Family Center, 2370 NW 17 Ave., Miami, 305-635-9622 Kids can make new friends and have summertime fun while participating in sports, aquatics, arts, science, cooking, fitness, performances, leadership training and more. Each week features a new adventure. Call your local Family Center for details.

Specialty Camps CAMP LINGUA 4700 Dykes Rd. Southwest Ranches 1725 NE 135th St., North Miami 954-642-CAMP (2267) www.camplingua.com Unique Spanish, French and English immersion programs offer children a fun, enriching summer experience while developing language and critical thinking skills. Children engage in language learning

1101 Biscayne Blvd., Miami 305-615-7990 www.frostscience.org Children can explore the wonders of science through hands-on activities during week-long themed camps.

Performing Arts CAMP BROADWAY

Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami 786-949-6722 www.arshtcenter.org Young thespians ages 10-17 can develop their confidence, character and presentation skills through dance, acting and singing. This week-long program culminates with a musical performance on the Arsht Center Stage.

ROXY THEATRE GROUP 4246 SW 152 Ave., Miami 305-226-0030 www.roxyperformingartscenter.com Students work together using their skills and talents to create a fun-filled, high-spirited musical performance. Program includes performing arts classes, set design, stage makeup, improvisation, movement, educational stations, field trips, a Broadway-style musical revue and more.

Summer Learning AMERICAN HERITAGE SUMMER INSTITUTE •Plantation:12200 W. Broward Blvd.

954-472-0022 ext. 3053 •Delray Beach: 6200 Linton Blvd.

561-495-7272 ext. 207 www.ahsummerprograms.com An academic enrichment program for high achievers in grades PK3-12 with a dedicated faculty comprised of career educators and professionals. Some of the course offerings include: Early Elementary Enrichment, Reading & Writing Honors Workshops, Advanced Math, Business Entrepreneurship, Leadership, Speech & Debate, Medical Terminology, Embryology, Psychology, Coding with Java, Architecture, SAT/ACT Prep, and more.

AMERICAN HERITAGE SUMMER SCHOOL •Plantation: 12200 W. Broward Blvd.

954-472-0022 ext. 3053 •Delray Beach: 6200 Linton Blvd.

561-495-7272 ext. 207 www.ahsummerprograms.com A proven summer program with over 50 years of success. For students in grades PK3-12, class sizes are small, teachers are certified and highly experienced, and weekly progress reports keep parents informed. Free morning bus transportation is provided throughout Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade Counties. Summer School/Summer Camp combo is offered.

Special Needs Camp CAMP ERIN Located at Camp Owaissa Bauer, 17001 SW 264 St., Homestead

LANGUAGE

SUMMER CAMP

SUMMER CAMP 305.226.0030 Lakes of

the Meadow

KIDS ASK FOR US

BY NAME

SPANISH | ENGLISH | FRENCH

Activities

Language Lessons Horseback Riding Barn Care Arts & Crafts Archery Pottery Mixed Media Art Jewelry Beach Days Gardening Color Wars

Soccer Basketball Field Trips Science Experiments Flag Football Music Dance Yoga Gaga Ball Team Building

Leadership and Independence Skill-Building and so much more!

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(954)-642-CAMP 1725 NE 135TH ST. NORTH MIAMI, FL 33181

MDFLTS /camplingua

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION 305-351-7026; 954-944-2709 www.camperinsouthflorida.org Created and funded by The Moyer Foundation, Camp Erin is a nationwide network of free bereavement camps for children and teens ages 6-17 who have experienced the death of someone close to them. The weekend-long experience consists of camp activities combined with grief education and emotional support, facilitated by grief professionals and trained volunteers.

Camp takes place March 22-24.

EASTERSEALS SOUTH FLORIDA 305-547-4743 www.easterseals.com/southflorida Offers a variety of free summer camp programs for children and adolescents with autism and other related disabilities.

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION DISABILITY SERVICES CAMPS 305-755-7848 www.miamidade.gov/parks Sponsored by The Children’s Trust, children and young adults with disabilities are offered enriching camp experiences in sports, swimming and arts and crafts at a variety of Miami-Dade County Parks & Recreation locations. Camps are managed by certified therapeutic recreation therapists.

THE CHILDREN’S TRUST 305-571-5700 www.thechildrenstrust.org The largest funder of after-school, youth enrichment and summer camp programs in Miami-Dade County, this organization offers a wide range of services, programs and camps for children with special needs.

City Camps Many cities offer a range of fun-filled camp programs to keep kids engaged and entertained all summer long. Activities range from sports, dance, and science to field trips, art and aquatic adventures.

Explore the city of your choice for details.

AVENTURA 305-466-8008 www.cityofaventura.com BAY HARBOR ISLANDS 786-646-9970 www.bayharborislands-fl.gov BISCAYNE PARK 305-893-3711 www.biscayneparkfl.gov CORAL GABLES 305-460-5600 www.coralgables.com CUTLER BAY 305-238-4166 www.cutlerbay-fl.gov DORAL 305-593-6600 www.cityofdoral.com HIALEAH 305-687-2650 www.hialeahfl.gov HIALEAH GARDENS 305-558-2331 www.cityofhialeahgardens.com HOMESTEAD 305-224-4570 www.cityofhomestead.com KEY BISCAYNE 305-365-8900 www.keybiscayne.fl.gov MIAMI 305-416-1300 www.miamigov.com MIAMI BEACH 305-673-7730 www.miamibeachfl.gov MIAMI GARDENS 305-622-8000 www.miamigardens-fl.gov MIAMI LAKES 305-364-6100 www.miamilakes-fl.gov

MIAMI SHORES 305-758-8103 www.miamishoresvillage.com MIAMI SPRINGS 305-805-5075 www.miamisprings-fl.gov NORTH MIAMI 305-895-9840 www.northmiamifl.gov NORTH MIAMI BEACH 305-948-2957 www.citynmb.com OPA-LOCKA 305-953-2875 www.opalockafl.gov PALMETTO BAY 305-259-1234 www.palmettobay-fl.gov PINECREST 305-234-2121 www.pinecrest-fl.gov SOUTH MIAMI 305-668-3876 www.southmiamifl.gov SUNNY ISLES BEACH 305-792-1799 www.sibfl.net SURFSIDE 305-866-3635 www.townofsurfsidefl.gov SWEETWATER 305-551-4774 www.cityofsweetwater.fl.gov WEST MIAMI 305-261-5566 www.cityofwestmiamifl.com

Sleep Away Camp

VALLEY VIEW RANCH EQUESTRIAN CAMP 606 Valley View Ranch Rd., Cloudland, Georgia 706-862-2231 www.valleyviewranch.com A horse lovers’ paradise since 1954. A’top Lookout Mountain, for 50 girls, 8-17; 1 to 9 weeks, 600 acres, English, Western, Barrels, Vaulting, and Trails.

CHA instructors teach beginner to advanced riders.

Spend 4-6 hours daily with your own camp horse.

The Jones family are third generation horse lovers, camp administrators, and equine educators.

REGISTER FOR CAMP NOW!

Hurry and beat the crowd.

TRADITIONAL DAY CAMP • TEEN CAMPS SPECIALTY CAMPS • SPORTS CAMPS • FITNESS CAMPS AQUATICS CAMPS • CAMP FIELD TRIPS & EVENTS

ymcasouthflorida.org/program/camp

REGISTRATION IS OPEN

For Spring Break Camp & Summer Camp

YMCA OF SOUTHFLORIDA

February 2019 | M I A M I - D A D E F A M I LY L I F E

23

FAMILY man

An Anniversary Gift

A HUSBAND’S TRIBUTE TO A MARRIAGE THAT ENDURES — DESPITE THE KIDS

BY GREGORY KEER

I

’ve been writing about my wife, in columns, screenplays and greeting cards, for more than half my life. You could say she’s a favorite topic. Given that this month marks 25 years of marriage, saying that I love — and like — her is kind of amazing.

Cue the gagging sounds of cynics everywhere. Funny thing is, I’m right there with them because long-term relationships, especially the kind involving those blood-sucking parasites called children, are pretty difficult to keep afloat.

For our part, we have three very different children we invited into our world. The fact that each one is not the same is messed up because once you’ve mastered one parenting trick, you should be able to put it to better use on the next varmint. But as any conscious parent or guardian knows, that’s not how it works. Children are

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variable creatures, no matter how you try to standardize them.

Which makes the whole prospect of co-parenting an ongoing test of the very relationship that started before the kids came along — with their eating peculiarities, inconsistent sleeping patterns, flu symptoms, arguments about what’s fair, and tantrums on the soccer field right in front of your own parents and all the others who apparently have no such challenges in raising their kids.

All of this can strain the ties that bind the people caring for the children. That can run from simple questions like, “And why exactly did you think it was a good idea to bring the toddler on a red-eye flight across the country?” or “If you want any alone time tonight, you try helping the demon child with his math homework this time.”

In the midst of parenting trials, my wife

| miamidadefamilylife.com

and I have had more than our share of sniping at each other and hurling blame with sometimes reckless abandon. We are both on the perfectionist spectrum, having gone into the child-rearing business with the intentions of doing it so well that our kids would function with minimal anxiety and maximum confidence. We ignored the fact that nature remains a far bigger determining factor than nurture in how a child develops. So, as a team, we’ve talked, researched, selected schools and extracurricular activities, even nuanced the friendships of our kids with the thought that we can always head off or at least prepare for the pitfalls.

In our instances when things have gone wrong, we’ve allowed our insecurities and feelings of failure to bring us low. We’ve nitpicked each other for speaking too harshly to the kids, for being too lenient

with their transgressions, for putting work ahead of family. It has taken its toll and sometimes made us forget how we got into this whole parenting experiment in the first place.

Looking back, it seems almost primitive how we connected to each other. On one of our first dates, we met at a park, where I brought the kid I was babysitting to hang out with Wendy. I knew she was studying child development and liked children, so I wanted to impress her with my potential daddy skills. It was kind of a weird thing to do since it could have scared off someone else, but I had a hunch about this woman with her big smile and easy way of connecting to human beings who couldn’t yet talk or walk.

Yet, as much as making babies with this woman was on my mind, it was the prospect that I would be able to be with her in every aspect of my life. She made me feel I could be my best self with her and, because of her, with other people — including ones that we might raise.

Through the trials and tribulations of life, we have managed to keep finding our way to each other, to the bedrock of our relationship. No matter what happens with the kids, we return to the basics of couple-hood. This is why we have painstakingly made time for nights out with grown-up friends, for occasional vacations for just the two of us. These efforts to reconnect have made us better with each other and better with our kids. We also hope it has taught our children the value of true partnership in life and the lesson that every lasting element in life takes at least a little luck but a lot of relentless, gratifying work to keep it going.

It has allowed us to jump back into the ship and sail the often stormy seas of parenting, taking turns at the helm and the navigation. It’s made it possible to see all the positives in parenting — the handmade birthday gifts, occasional teacher compliments on report cards, graduations, music or sports moments, and other developmental milestones that make two people say to each other, “We did good here.”

Happy Anniversary, Wendy. Here’s to a lifetime of doing good, together.

Gregory Keer is an award-winning syndicated columnist, teacher and guest expert in national media. And he is apparently a very lucky man.

NO FLUORIDE MINIMAL RADIATION

MERCURY FREE DIGITAL X-RAYS

Gentle Dentistry with a Holistic Approach for Children of All Ages

Ted Herrmann, D.M.D 9220 SW 72nd Street, #205 Miami, FL 33173

MARLINS PARK FEB 16 – 17 Competitors shown are subject to change. © 2018 Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

MonsterJam.com February 2019 | M I A M I - D A D E F A M I LY L I F E

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HOME tech

Making Parents Twitch WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE LIVE-STREAMING GAMING SITE

BY KATY M. CLARK “Can I get a Twitch account?” my 14-year-old son asked me.

I stared at him blankly. I had only just wrapped my head around Fortnite and Snapchat, and now this ... Twitch?

“What is it?” I asked.

“You watch gamers play live. It’ll really help me with Fortnite,” he explained.

Inwardly, I rolled my eyes.

“Isn’t that the same as watching all those videos on YouTube?”

Turns out the answer is sort of, but not really. Here’s what I have learned about Twitch.

WHAT IS IT? “Twitch is a website where you can watch live-streamers play video games,” my son informed me. It was founded in 2011 and is owned by Amazon. Between 1 and 2 million visitors log in to Twitch each month, most to watch their favorite gamers, or broadcasters (as Twitch calls them), play video games.

It is the live-streaming that distinguishes Twitch from YouTube, where most gamers post prerecorded videos. As well, Twitch offers a live chat stream that allows viewers to interact in

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real time with each other and the broadcaster.

Twitch is available on desktops, laptops, mobile devices and consoles such as Xbox.

DOES TWITCH COST ANYTHING? “You don’t need to buy anything to watch it,” my son reported. Getting an account to follow a broadcaster is free, but subscribing to a broadcaster, which comes with such perks as more emojis to use in chat rooms, costs $4.99 a month and up, depending on the subscription level. Showing support of your favorite gamer by subscribing is how he or she makes money, as Amazon splits each subscription with the broadcaster.

Because Amazon owns Twitch, it should come as no surprise that a free Twitch Prime account is available to everyone with an Amazon Prime account. This is how our family signed up.

Twitch Prime allows ad-free viewing and one free subscription to a broadcaster every month.

There are also Bits available to purchase. Bits are emotes (usually a gem) that users buy and use in chat streams to celebrate and support a favorite broadcaster. Twitch touts that

using Bits could gain the attention of the broadcaster in the live chat.

IS TWITCH MORE THAN VIDEO GAMES? Most teens flock to Twitch to watch their favorite gamers play live, but there is also a Creative category where broadcasters stream their creative processes on everything from cooking to comedy to choreography.

For instance, I discovered that Twitch shows Bob Ross’ infamous The Joy of Painting series. They allow its broadcasters to rebroadcast the shows, too, as long as they add something creative, like painting along with Ross or adding commentary.

I might be tempted to watch and see a broadcaster discuss classic lines like, “We don’t make mistakes, just happy little accidents.”

SHOULD I BE CONCERNED ABOUT TWITCH? Twitch is live, so it can be hard to censor. Gamers can and do curse, even if by accident. There is also exposure to advertising on Twitch, including on-screen ads and sponsorships of gamers who guzzle certain energy drinks or wear branded clothing.

Twitch does have community policies to crack down on hate speech, harassment and sexual content in chat streams, but parents should be aware that anyone can chat. Additionally, in the past year, the service has developed more into a social network. Twitch users can follow and DM (Direct Message) each other; each stream has its own unique chatroom where users can connect; and the popular Pulse feature essentially functions as a Facebook timeline that allows for everyone on the network to post their status updates, as well as like, share and comment on what others have written.

And did I mention it was live?

“I like that I can watch my favorite streamers and relax,” commented my son.

So far, the chat stream has not tempted him to buy Bits or participate because “popular gamers just get their streams flooded.”

Yet, I will have regular conversations with him about what he is watching and doing in Twitch’s digital world, especially as it looks like Twitch is here to stay.

Katy M. Clark is a writer who doesn’t live-stream her imperfections as a mom, but does embrace them on her blog, ExperiencedBadMom.com

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FebruaryEvents HOW TO SUBMIT CALENDAR LISTINGS

Please e-mail listing information to calendar@miamidadefamilylife.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.

MUSEUMS & EXHIBITS Kids Night at the Museum SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2

Drop the kids off for a late night of museum exploration and hands-on activities. Dinner and a late night snack included. Ages 5-17.

Pre-registration required. $60/child, $40/sibling. 6:30pm-midnight, FROST MUSEUM OF SCIENCE, 1101 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, www.frostscience.org

Gold Coast Free First Saturday SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2

Bring the kids for a hands-on history lesson the first Saturday of every month when admission and museum exploration is free.

GOLD COAST RAILROAD MUSEUM,

12450 SW 152 St., Miami, 305-253-0063 www.goldcoastrailroadmuseum.org

Discovering Design

Monster Jam

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2

for juice and cookies. $15/adult, $10/child. 3pm, PINECREST GARDENS, 11000 SW 57 Ave., Pinecrest, www.orchestramiami.org

Inspired by examples of Italian textiles, kids can create an original tapestry by using fabric cutouts of their favorite things in Miami during this free family day. Noon-3pm, THE WOLFSONIAN - FIU, 1001 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, 305-531-1001 www.wolfsonian.org

Monster Jam

Free Third Friday

Monster truck mayhem includes breathtaking stunts and the awesome power of the world’s most popular Monster Jam trucks. Tickets start at $15. Saturday 7pm, Sunday 3pm. MARLINS PARK, 501 Marlins Way, Miami, www.monsterjam.com

Kids can explore the museum, create crafts and participate in hands-on activities for free the third Friday of every month. 4-8pm, MIAMI CHILDREN’S MUSEUM, 980 Macarthur Causeway, Miami, 305-373-5437 www.miamichildrensmuseum.org

IT’S SHOWTIME! Alan Chamo - Mind Hacker SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2

A unique mind bending show that blends mentalism, mind reading and humor with lots of audience interaction. $35-$45. 3pm (presented in English); 7:30pm (Spanish). AVENTURA ARTS & CULTURAL CENTER, 3385 NE 188 St., Aventura, www.aventuracenter.org

Chinese Acrobats of Hebei SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2

Watch the agility, grace and amazing feats of this talented group that combines Chinese traditions with acrobatics and performance. $10/non-resident; free/with SIB resident ID. 7:30pm, GATEWAY PARK, 151 Sunny Isles Blvd., Sunny Isles Beach, www.sibfl.net

Cinderella

OPENS FEBRUARY 7

An old time classic is performed with a modern day twist. Saturdays at 2pm through March 21.

Kids Fest Family Day takes place February 23.

ACTORS PLAYHOUSE, 280 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables, 305-444-9293, www.actorsplayhouse.org

New Shanghai Circus SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9

A captivating show where powerful athletes perform breathtaking acts and feats. $30-$55. 8-10pm, SEMINOLE THEATRE, 18 N. Krome Ave., 786-650-2073 www.seminoletheatre.org

Walking with Giants SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 10

Students from the Greater Miami Youth Symphony join forces with Orchestra Miami to present the work of classical composers. Come early for a pre-show instrument petting zoo and stay after

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SATURDAY-SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 16-17

B-The Underwater Bubble Show FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22

A magical underwater-themed adventure that uses laser lights, colorful costume and bubbles both large and small to captivate the audience. All ages. $20-$35. 8pm, SOUTH MIAMI-DADE CULTURAL ARTS CENTER, 10950 SW 211 St., Cutler Bay, 786573-5300 www.smdcac.org

The Very Hungry Caterpillar & other Eric Carle Favs SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 24

Beloved children’s books spring to life during this children’s theater production. Tickets include pre-show activities and a sweet treat. $14-$18.

11am & 1pm, AVENTURA ARTS & CULTURAL CENTER, 3385 NE 188 St., Aventura, www.aventuracenter.org

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15

Music Makers

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 17

Move, groove and make music with your little one during this Mini-Me Science program. Ages 4 and younger with caregiver. Pre-registration required. $12/child, plus museum admission. 10:30-11am, FROST MUSEUM OF SCIENCE, 1101 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, www.frostscience.org

Jazz at MOCA

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22

This free outdoor concert features jazz performers the last Friday of every month.

MOCA galleries are open by donation from 7-10pm. Concert begins at 8pm. MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART NORTH MIAMI,

770 NE 125 St., North Miami, 305-893-6211 www.mocanomi.org

You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown

Family Day

Have some fun with the whole Peanuts gang including beloved Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Schroeder, Sally and Linus. $50-$60. 7:30pm,

Families can enjoy free museum admission throughout the day and special hands-on activities including a Design Challenge from 2-4pm. THE BASS MUSEUM OF ART, 2100 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305-673-7530 www.thebass.org

THURSDAY-SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28-MARCH 2

BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS,

201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-0222 www.browardcenter.org

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SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 24

FAIRS, FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS Play Day

$65/non-resident. 6:30-9pm, THE NEWMAN

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2

ALUMNI CENTER AT UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI,

An event designed to encourage kids to get outdoors and play. Activities include outdoor games, music, arts and crafts, live performances and more. 11am-2pm, DORAL MEADOW PARK, 11555 NW 58 St., Doral, 305-593-6611 www.cityofdoral.com

6200 San Amaro Dr., Coral Gables, 305-460-5600 www.coralgables.com

Broward Family Life 6th Annual Camp Connections and Summer Fun Expo

Camping in the Park & Movie Night

Find the perfect camp by exploring a wide variety of spring and summer camp options during a fun-filled day packed with live performances, wildlife encounters, games, activities and more.

Pre-register online by February 8 to receive free admission to Flamingo Gardens, or register on-site for half-price admission. Free tote bags to the first 250 attendees. 11am-3pm, FLAMINGO GARDENS, 3750 S. Flamingo Rd., Davie, www.browardfamilylife.com

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2

Spend some family time camping under the stars.

Activities include a night hike, campfire, family movie, telescope stargazing and more.

Pre-registration required. $5 per tent. 11am, CORAL REEF PARK, 7895 SW 152 St., Palmetto Bay, 305-259-1234 www.palmettobay-fl.gov

Venardos Circus

live performances and a Family Zone with fun-filled activities. $15/per person, per day; free/12 and under. Saturday & Sunday 10am-6pm, Monday 10am-5pm. 2700 S. Bayshore Dr., Miami, www.cgaf.com

South Beach Wine and Food Festival

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 10

WEDNESDAY-SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20-24

Miami Yacht Show

FEBRUARY 6-24

Be entertained by a talented group of acrobats and performers during this animal-free, Broadway-style circus under a big-top. All ages. THE PALMS AT TOWN & COUNTRY, 8268 Mills Dr., Miami, www.venardoscircus.com

Daddy & Daughter Dinner Dance

THURSDAY-MONDAY, FEBRUARY 14-18

Coconut Grove Arts Festival

A masquerade-themed party that includes dinner, DJ music, dancing, photos and lots of fun. Space limited. Pre-registration required. $50/resident,

A celebration of art featuring multi-media artists and art displays, culinary demonstrations, music,

Fun and Fit as a Family

SATURDAY-SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 23-24

Parents and kids learn the basics of a healthy lifestyle and cooking through hands-on experiences as part of the South Beach Wine and Food Festival lineup. $22 per person, per day. 10am-5pm, JUNGLE ISLAND, 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Miami, www.sobewff.org

Family Ice Cream Social

Annual show features a 60-acre display of luxury yachts. $28/adult; free/children 12 and under. 10am-6pm, Thursday-Sunday; 10am-5pm, Monday. One Herald Plaza, Miami, www.miamiyachtshow.com

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9

A South Beach signature event featuring five days of food and fun at a variety of locations. Visit website for details. www.sobewff.org

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 24

Sample some cool and creative treats from local businesses while having some fun in the sun at this event hosted by Cake Boss, Buddy Valastro.

The social is part of the South Beach Wine and Food Festival lineup. All ages. $75/adult, $35/child. 3-5pm, LOEWS MIAMI BEACH HOTEL, 1601 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, www.sobewff.org

SATURDAY-MONDAY, FEBRUARY 16-18

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES Valentine’s Day Craft

month through May. $10/adult, $3/child. Gates open at 6pm. 7-9pm,

Movie Thursdays

Kids can create a gift from the heart to give to a loved one. Materials provided. Ages 4-12. 11am,

BARNACLE HISTORIC STATE PARK,

Spend time with loved ones on Valentine’s Day watching a movie at the library. 3pm, MAIN LIBRARY, 101 W. Flagler St., Miami, 305-375-2665 www.mdpls.org

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2

COCONUT GROVE BRANCH LIBRARY,

2875 McFarlane Rd., Miami, 305-442-8695 www.mdpls.org

Camping Under the Stars FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8

Bring the family and your camping gear for an overnight adventure with a bonfire, marshmallow roasting and an outdoor movie. 6pm, DORAL CENTRAL PARK, 3000 NW 87 Ave., Doral, 305-593-6611 www.cityofdoral.com

Movie Night

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8

Bring your family for a twilight, flashlight-led stroll through the winding garden paths followed by a full-length featured flick in the Banyan Bowl. $5. Gates open at 6:30pm, movie begins at 7:30pm.

PINECREST GARDENS, 11000 Red Rd., Pinecrest, 305-669-6990 www.pinecrestgardens.org

Barnacle Under Moonlight Concert SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9

Kick back and listen to music by the bay the second Saturday of every

3485 Main Hwy, Miami 305-442-6866 www.thebarnacle.org

Black History Month Storytime and Craft SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9

Families can celebrate Black History Month with stories and crafts at the library. All ages. 3pm, ARCOLA LAKES BRANCH LIBRARY, 8240 NW Seventh Ave., Miami, 305-694-2707 www.mdpls.org

Discover at Deering SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9

Children ages 6-14 learn about the environment, arts and science through nature walks, journaling activities, art and more. Pre-registration required. $15. 10am-2pm, DEERING ESTATE, 16701 SW 72 Ave., Miami, 305-235-1668 www.deeringestate.org

Community Bike Ride SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9

Tune up the bicycles and bring the kids for a bike ride along a 5.5 mile family-friendly loop. 7:30-10:30am, MIAMI LAKES PICNIC PARK EAST YOUTH CENTER, 6075 Miami

Lakes Dr., Miami Lakes, www.miamilakes-fl.gov

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 14

Toddler Art

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15

Bring your little ones to participate in simple art projects that they can do all on their own. Ages 19 months to 3 years. 11:30am, KENDALE LAKES BRANCH LIBRARY, 15205 SW 88 St., Miami, 305-388-0326 www.mdpls.org

Movies at the Park FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22

Bring lawn chairs or blankets to watch a movie on a giant outdoor inflatable screen. 7:30pm, DOWNTOWN DORAL PARK, 8395 NW 53 St., Doral, 305-593-6611 www.cityofdoral.com

Winter Stargazing FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22

Explore the night sky and the “snow moon” with the Southern Cross Astros. Free. 2-5pm, FRUIT & SPICE PARK, 24801 SW 187 Ave., Homestead, www.redlandfruitandspice.com

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.

Family Kayak Adventures

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23

Learn the basic techniques of kayaking and paddling while taking a guided tour around Biscayne Bay. $15.

9am-noon, THALATTA ESTATE, 17301 Old Cutler Rd., Palmetto Bay, www.naturepostings.com

Food Truck Tuesdays TUESDAYS

Skip the cooking and choose from an array of food trucks, with selections sure to please the entire family.

The evening also includes bounce houses and children’s activities.

Weather permitting. 5-9:30pm, HAULOVER PARK, 10800 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 786-287-6688 www.miamifoodtrucksevents.com

WANT MORE FUN? For additional local events, check our online calendar at www.miamidadefamilylife.com

February 2019 | M I A M I - D A D E F A M I LY L I F E

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WORDS of wisdom

Tooth Wisdom AN UNEXPECTED LIFE LESSON

BY DOLORES SMYTH “Yeeeesss! Wooooo!” My friend’s 6-year-old daughter, Clara, rejoiced and trotted a victory lap around the playground, a trickle of blood connecting her mouth to her chin. Undeterred, she held up her arms in triumph, showing the other children the prize pinched between two fingers: her first lost tooth.

The kids oohed and aahed almost in unison. Clara’s mother and I stood and applauded from an adjacent park bench.

That’s when I noticed my own 6-year-old daughter hugging her knees and sobbing under the clubhouse, where she and Clara had just been playing.

“What’s wrong, honey?” I asked.

“Clara lost (sob) her tooth before me. I’m almost 7 (sob) and the Tooth Fairy forgot that.

Now Clara’s tooth fell out before mine, and me and Clara are out of order. It’s not fair!”

“Well, it’s not your turn yet to lose your first tooth. Now wipe your tears and go congratulate Clara on her special moment,” I said matter-of-factly, as if I myself lived life instantly high-fiving everyone who got something I wanted.

As my daughter mulled over what I hoped was an empowering life lesson that she’d thank me for one day, I was gripped by my own hypocrisy. Long-buried memories resurfaced before my mind’s eye, resurrecting scenes in which I had let envy keep me from congratulating others for their accomplishments.

My thoughts yanked me back to high school. A classmate had just bested me for 10th place in our graduating class by a hundredth of a GPA point. The classmate, a quiet girl with few friends, had always been kind to me. Despite that, I’d responded to her victory with a huffy silence that left her alienated and hurt for the remainder of senior year.

I tried shaking away feelings of remorse over my childhood pettiness, but my conscience was not yet done with me.

Another image materialized: I was at my first job out of grad school. I watched as a coworker landed a position I had hoped would remain vacant for a few more months until I became eligible to apply for it. My co-worker berated assistants in the hallway; I did no such thing. He siphoned credit from his peers; I did no such thing. He also brought in a consistent stream of business; I also did no such thing. Given his greater contribution to our

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company’s bottom line, my co-worker ascended the corporate ladder. Me? I got a cringe-worthy memory of avoiding him and simmering in my office for days.

The injustice of my co-worker getting a promotion despite being the office sleaze wasn’t the point, since life isn’t always fair. Instead, the lesson in that memory was that I’d later regret such inelegant refusalsto congratulate peers.

With a sudden urgency for my daughter to stem such future regrets, I again encouraged her to congratulate Clara on her happy moment. “I know it’s not easy, but you’ll feel bad about it later if you don’t.”

My kid gave me a half-smile in response, and shuffled her light-up Sketchers in Clara’s direction. I fretted until I heard my daughter mutter a sincere-enough “that’s awesome” to her pal. That’s my girl.

Moments later, the fallen tooth was forgotten. The two girls had resumed their gleeful game, albeit with a new lisp for one of the agents, and an avoided would-be regret for the other.

Dolores Smyth is the mother of three children under 10.

She has been writing essays and short stories since around the time of her first lost tooth.

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Sunday, February 10, 2019 11am-3pm at Flamingo Gardens

Located on Flamingo Road minutes from I-75 and I-595

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