Miami Dade Family Life March 2019

MIAMI-DADE

COMPLIMENTARY

special

MARCH 2019

DELIVERY LOCAL RESOURCES for BUSY PARENTS

virtual

REALITIES WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT VIDEO-GAMING

summer

CAMP

showcase

AWESOME OPTIONS FOR YOUR CHILD

500 OFF

$

call for consultation which includes Xrays

contents

MARCH 2019

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VIRTUAL REALITIES Parents worry that their children spend too much time staring at video screens and playing video games. Here’s why.

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SUMMER CAMP SHOWCASE Searching for the perfect summer program? Check out our special advertising section filled with options that may be just what you’re looking for.

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PARENTING PERFECTED Apps to help simplify life for new moms and dads — from connecting with other new parents to finding a clean restroom.

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SPECIAL DELIVERY Babies may not come with a manual, but our guide to resources in and around Miami-Dade County can help parents navigate the journey of pregnancy and parenthood.

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MIAMI & MORE

FAMILY HEALTH

FAMILY MAN

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

WORDS OF WISDOM

News about the people, places and events in our community.

Expert advice to keep Daylight Saving Time from disturbing your child’s bedtime routine.

A dad discovers the mutual joys of joking around with his kids.

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

How the kinship of motherhood reveals our true friends.

M I A M I - D A D E F A M I LY L I F E

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EXPERT PARENTS CHOOSE US

When you choose UHealth Jackson Children’s Care, your child receives the combined expertise of pediatric specialists from both UHealth – University of Miami Health System and Jackson Health System.

Our pediatric network includes Holtz Children’s Hospital, Primary, Specialty, Urgent, and Emergency Care throughout Miami-Dade County. We are one of the largest and most comprehensive networks of pediatric healthcare providers in the Southeast United States.

Expert parents know their child will get the best treatment when they choose UHealth Jackson Children’s Care.

To learn more, visit ExpertKidsCare.org.

For a pediatric specialist referral call 305-585-PEDI (7334).

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

SPLASHTACULAR BIRTHDAY PARTIES! Make new friends when you party with Lolita the Orca, TV superstar Flipper, Salty the Sea Lion and all your marine animal friends. It’s the no-hassle way to give your birthday child the party of a lifetime! For reservations, call 305-365-2507 today.

Party package includes a party area with decorations, kid-friendly lunch, personalized cake, costumed character visit (weather permitting), admission to all shows and exhibits and much more.

NEW Touch Pools!

miamiseaquarium.com LOCATED ON RICKENBACKER CAUSEWAY, JUST MINUTES FROM DOWNTOWN MIAMI.

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

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.

Copyright 2019 by Family Life Media Group.

All rights reserved.

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FAMILY & FUN

TALLAHASSEE ALL IN ONE

Tallahassee is a destination sure to fill your family’s hearts with wonder. From meandering along beautiful nature trails and splashing in Cascade Park’s Centennial Fountain to enthralling spring festivals like the Red Hills International Horse Trials, Springtime Tallahassee, Southern Shakespeare Festival, LeMoyne Chain of Parks Art Festival and Word of South Festival, Tallahassee truly has it all. Plan your trip at VisitTallahassee.com

VisitTallahassee.com

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MIAMI

Beyond a Day in the Park DAY IN THE PARK LOCATIONS CRANDON PARK 6747 Crandon Blvd., Miami – Lot #4 Activities take place at open space between Amusement Area and Crandon Gardens, and include volunteer beach clean-up (9am-noon), free nature walks, a scavenger hunt, games, carousel rides, a roller-skating rink (bring your skates), music, prizes (while supplies last), and discounted chair and umbrella rentals. Parking $7.

MIAMI-DADE PARKS SYSTEM CELEBRATES 90TH BIRTHDAY WITH MEGA FAMILY FUN DAY

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he same year that the Great Depression dealt its death blow to the American economy, something sprang to life in Miami that has made lives better here for 90 years now — Miami-Dade Parks.

It was 1929 when A.D. “Doug” Barnes, who strongly believed recreation was important to the lives of every citizen, became the first parks employee and later the first director. After he persuaded industrialist and Coconut Grove resident Commodore William John Matheson to donate 80 acres in 1930 for the first county park, Matheson Hammock, Barnes eventually became regarded as the father of Miami-Dade Parks. In 1977, he also had a park named after him — the 65-acre A.D.(Doug) Barnes Park, which offers activities that serve people with disabilities in one of Miami’s busiest areas.

Ironically, the economic collapse of the 1930s and the manual-labor jobs created in its wake by the Civilian Conservation Corps spurred the growth of the county’s park system, which has become the third-largest in the country and one of the most unique in the world, with 270 parks, six golf courses, more than 10 miles of beaches and attractions like Zoo Miami among its 13,573 acres.

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And to celebrate its nine decades of inspiring people to “Live A Park Life,” the Miami-Dade Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department, as it is now known, is throwing itself a year-long birthday party and kicking it off with a “Day in the Park” megafamily fun event on March 2 from 10am-2pm at various parks throughout the county.

“There is no question that Miami-Dade parks make lives better,” says director Maria I. Nardi. “Throughout these 90 years, the Parks Department has been there for families through the generations, providing opportunities to gather for high quality sports, recreation, community events, and environmental activities that identify our park systems’ unique natural, cultural and historical heritage.”

Today, Miami-Dade Parks is more than just playgrounds and athletic fields. Resting on its three pillars of health and fitness, conservations and stewardship/placemaking, it also offers high-quality out-of-school, sports-development and summer-camp programs, as well as activities for active older adults and people with disabilities, nature centers and the preservation of national areas.

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GREYNOLDS PARK 16700 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami Beach (East Greynolds Park) Activities include food truck vendors, park history display, free canoe tours, nature walks and fishing clinic, discounted kayak rentals, agility course for dogs and nature-based games and activities, popcorn, snow-cones and music.

Parking $2/hour.

HAULOVER BEACH PARK 10800 Collins Ave., Miami (Bill Bird Marina entrance) Activities take place at the kite field (marina parking lot area) and include sea turtle display and activities, electric bike demos and discounted rentals, discounted kites, kids’ activities, free music, bounce house, games, popcorn, snow cones and food truck vendors. Parking free at event area.

HOMESTEAD BAYFRONT PARK 9698 N. Canal Dr., Homestead Activities take place at the Atoll pool and include discounted kayak, canoe, and bike rentals, free music and live performances, a bounce house and discounted food at La Playa Grill. Parking $7.

OTHER PARK LOCATIONS FOR DAY IN THE PARK Gwen Cherry, Miller Drive/Raices, North Trail, and South Dade parks will each host its own unique activities. For more information, please visit www.miamidade.gov/celebrate90

AN HISTORICAL MONTH FOR WOMANKIND In this era of heightened women’s causes, the arrival of Women’s History Month carries an elevated significance and an especially significant theme.

Every year since 1988, March has been designated as Women’s History Month by Presidential proclamation to honor women’s contributions in American history. This year’s theme, “Visionary Women: Champions of Peace & Nonviolence,” honors those who have led efforts to end war, violence and injustice and pioneered the use of nonviolence to change society.

As with most advances for women in this country, the monthlong recognition didn’t happen overnight, tracing its beginnings back to the first International Women’s Day in 1911 and ultimately emerging in 1978 as Women’s History Week, a local celebration in Santa Rosa, Calif.

The organizers selected the week of March 8 to correspond with International Women’s Day, and other communities initiated celebrations the following year. In 1980, a consortium of women’s groups successfully lobbied for national recognition of the event, and in February, President Jimmy Carter issued the first Presidential Proclamation declaring the week of March 8 as National Women’s History Week.

“From the first settlers who came to our shores,” Carter wrote, “from the first American Indian families who befriended them, men and women have worked together to build this nation. Too often the women were unsung and sometimes their contributions went unnoticed. But the achievements, leadership, courage, strength and love of the women who built America was as vital as that of the men whose names we know so well.”

By 1986, 14 states had already extended the week to a month, and the following year, Congress followed suit and passed the law that made Women’s History Month a national celebration in perpetuity.

In Miami-Dade County, the month will be marked by the 31st annual In the Company of Women Awards, which will honor 15 “outstanding women who have made significant contributions to the community and who have helped to pave the way for others to follow.” The charitable event is March 7 at the Coral Gables Country Club, 990 Alhambra Circle. For information, please visit www.miamidade.gov/parks/company-of-women.asp.

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MARCH 25-29

Visit www.malloftheamericas.com for a list of FREE Spring Break events happening at Mall of the Americas.

Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram and Twitter to discover great stores, delicious restaurants, and special events!

7795 W. Flager Sr., Miami, FL 33144

www.malloftheamericas.com March 2019 | M I A M I - D A D E F A M I LY L I F E

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BY CHRISTA MELNYK HINES

VIRTUAL REALITIES S

From sundown March 1 to sundown March 2, people across the globe will detox from technology in honor of the National Day of Unplugging. It’s the perfect time to connect with our families and perhaps to reconsider a risk of being plugged in: how playing video games affects our children’s brains. For more information on the big day, visit www.nationaldayofunplugging.com onna Volpitta’s fifth-grade son is like many boys his age.

If kids aren’t coming over to his house to play video games, he’s going to their homes or he’s joining them online.

“Just like phones are not evil, video games are not evil. [Digital media] is part of our kids’ world and their social life,” says Volpitta, who is also mom to three other adolescents and the author of The Resilience Formula: A Guide to Proactive-Not Reactive-Parenting.

“But, it’s important to teach them mindful use and what video games do to your brain,” she adds.

Why a healthy balance matters. It supports your kids’ healthy brain development to balance out their electronics use with both organized activities and unstructured free time to dream and engage in creative pursuits. It also helps them become more conscientious users of technology.

Too much screen time starves the cortex of the brain, which is in charge of long-term decision-making, and overfeeds the limbic system, which is the emotional fight-or-flight part of the brain.

Over time, this wires the brain for a short attention span, impulsive behavior and an inability to pick up on social cues.

While video-gaming can provide a positive way for peers to connect and enhance skills like hand-eye coordination and problem-solving, it doesn’t help kids build resilience in the same way that solving a more complex problem can.

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For example, suppose your child is trying to assemble a paper airplane that flies across the room instead of nosediving the minute it hits the air. He looks up ideas online, tries different techniques, folds, refolds, experiments and tries again. With a pile of frustrated attempts balled up around him, he finally experiences the sweet thrill of success as he tosses a plane into the air and watches it glide gracefully across the room.

When we pursue and achieve a hard-won goal, the brain is flooded with dopamine, the reward neurochemical, and serotonin, the self-confidence neurochemical. Furthermore, our persistence and creative problem-solving builds self-esteem and resilience, a skill that will be invaluable as problems crop up throughout life.

Unlike more complicated projects that delay gratification, video games offer users short bursts of reward chemicals that often leave the player wanting more.

“It’s not that video games don’t offer some level of persistence, but there’s a very straight and narrow path towards that next goal,” Volpitta says. “It’s almost like having a chocolate chip as opposed to a Hershey bar.”

The desire for more quick, pleasurable hits of dopamine and serotonin and unlimited access to gaming ultimately primes the brain for addiction. continued on page 12

SCREEN STRAIN PROTECTING YOUR FAMILY’S EYES IN A DIGITAL MEDIA AGE

BY KIMBERLY BLAKER As most parents will attest, the amount of time their kids spend plugged-in is excessive.

There are many good reasons for parents’ alarm. First, despite the amount of time kids spend on social media, the activity is isolating.

Also, the sedentary nature of watching TV or using other digital devices increases the likelihood of childhood obesity. Then there’s the widespread problem that being constantly plugged-in is linked to decreased attention spans.

But there’s another issue many parents aren’t familiar with. Digital screens also cause eye damage and vision problems. One of these is called computer vision syndrome, also known as digital eye strain. Most concerning, however, is the permanent damage caused by blue-light. Both of these eye problems affect kids and adults alike.

DIGITAL EYE STRAIN Computer vision syndrome, as explained by the American Optometric Association (AOA), is eye discomfort and vision problems that result from extended viewing of computer screens, e-readers, tablets and cell phones. With this condition, the more time spent on digital devices, the greater the discomfort becomes.

According to The Vision Council, the symptoms of computer vision syndrome include eye strain, dry eyes, headache, blurred vision, and neck and shoulder pain.

Fortunately, there are several solutions to prevent or cure this syndrome. The first is to set limits on daily leisure media use for your child. In 2016, because of the numerous adverse effects of media consumption, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) announced the following recommendations: • For children 18 months or younger, limit screen media exclusively to video-chatting.

• From 18 to 24 months, look for high-quality programming. Although the AAP doesn’t specify an amount of time for this age group, less than one hour a day can be presumed based on the next age group.

• For ages 2 to 5 years, allow no more than one hour a day of media.

• Kids ages 6 and older should have consistent limits for their total media time plus specific limits on various types of media.

The AAP, in recognizing that each family and child is different, hasn’t set a standard amount of time for this age group. However, outside of family media activities and homework, kids should spend only a small fraction of their day plugged-in. continued on page 12

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Screen Strain continued from page 11

Virtual Realities

Another way to protect against computer vision syndrome is by wearing computer eyeglasses. If you or your child experience symptoms of digital eye strain, make an appointment with an optometrist for a vision check and to discuss screen-use to determine if computer glasses are the right choice.

There are also several other ways to reduce eye strain while using digital devices.

When using a computer, the screen should be positioned at an arm’s distance away.

Increasing the font size helps to reduce strain as well. Also, to eliminate glare, reduce overhead lighting.

Finally, follow the easy-to-remember 20-20-20 rule recommended by the AOA. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second screen break by looking at something 20 feet away.

Choose games wisely. Just as wholesome foods nourish your body, the content we feed the brain influences how we respond to the world.

“Continued and excessive exposure to violence puts the child into a reality where violence is an acceptable way of solving different problems,” says pediatrician Raun Melmed, author of the children’s book Timmy’s Monster Diary: Screen Time Stress. “Kids who are exposed to violence are more anxious, more fearful and, very likely, more prone to violence.”

Hilary Cash, PhD, agrees. She is the chief clinical officer of reSTART Life, a residential treatment program for Internet and digitaltechnology addiction in adolescents and young adults. She notes research indicating that the levels of empathy among college students have dropped by nearly 40 percent in recent years.

“A lot of that is attributed to video games and the antisocial environment of the Internet.

People are becoming inured to antisocial behavior and not developing the good emotional and social intelligence needed to promote empathy,” Cash says.

Research games that your child wants to play before you buy, and play or watch them together. Seek pro-social games and those that encourage creative problem-solving. Check out CommonSenseMedia.org for ratings and reviews.

Establish a media plan. Melmed suggests coming up with a media plan as a family, outlining rules that both parents and kids agree to follow. For example, consider how much video-game time is appropriate each day and when electronics will be powered down each evening to ensure a good night’s sleep.

For her family, Volpitta doesn’t allow screen time behind closed doors and limits video games to one hour a day once homework and chores are complete.

BLUE LIGHT HAZARDS Exposure to blue light is another hazard of digital screens. Blue light comes from many sources, including and primarily sunlight as well as LED and fluorescent lighting. But smartphones, flat-screen TVs, computers and electronic notebooks also emit significant amounts of blue light.

The reason this is a problem is that our eyes cannot block blue light. As a result, it penetrates the eye lens and cornea and reaches the retina. Prolonged exposure to blue light likely contributes to macular degeneration and vision loss.

Blue light also affects the circadian rhythm and throws off the body’s biological clock, according to the Harvard Health Letter, “Blue Light Has a Dark Side.” Night-time light exposure appears to be particularly unhealthy, it said. Numerous studies have linked exposure to light at night (while working the night shift) with breast and prostate cancer, heart disease, diabetes and obesity.

Harvard researchers also point out that even dim light affects the circadian rhythm and interferes with melatonin secretion. The resulting lack of sleep then increases the risk for depression. So, there are multiple reasons to reduce your child’s exposure to blue light, as well as yours. In addition to minimizing screen-time, you can: Shut-down devices with digital screens two to three hours before bedtime, if possible, or at least dim the screen light in the evenings.

If your child requires a nightlight, use a dim red light, which has the least impact on the circadian rhythm and the eyes.

If you or your child spend much time on digital devices or stay up late, wear blue-blocking glasses to reduce the likelihood of damage to your eyes or throwing your circadian rhythm out of balance.

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You might decide to have a digital free day once a week or ban electronic devices in the car or during meal time.

“Then you have to make sure meal time is an interesting time as well as a time for sharing and time for interacting,” Melmed advises.

By creating realistic limits and understanding how video games impact the brain, you will feel more in control as a parent despite the rapidly changing digital landscape.

While your kids probably won’t express appreciation for vigilance, they will feel safer, too.

“The brain needs to feel safe and it feels safe with those limits, with knowing that somebody is in control,” Volpitta says. “When we’re afraid of setting those limits, when we’re afraid of technology, it actually makes their brains feel unsafe.”

Signs of trouble. Gaming becomes problematic if it is all your child seems to think or talk about, and if he exhibits agitation or anger when you try to set limits.

“The similarities between kids who play too many video games for long periods of time and those who are addicted to anything else, from drugs or alcohol or cigarettes, is equivalent,” Melmed says.

Signs of gaming abuse and addiction include: • Digital media use for extended periods of time • Problems with school work • Trouble sleeping or sleepiness • Physically overweight or underweight • Infrequent face-to-face interactions with peers • Depression, anxiety or anger To learn more, visit NetAddictionRecovery.com.

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March 23-24 and March 30-31 Get your SLIME ON with your own custom slime in our Slime Room and special SLIME O’CLOCK demonstrations where someone will be “slimed”

miamichildrensmuseum.org Miami Children’s Museum receives both private and public funding. MCM is sponsored in part by the City of Miami; the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners; and the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts.

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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.

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.

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 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.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION GULLIVER 9350 S. Dixie Highway, Miami 305-666-6333 www.gulliver.life/summer

This highly-acclaimed summer camp program offers activities for a range of interests. Specialty camps include theater, sports, STEAM and summer studies for middle and high school students.

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.

• 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) MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION www.camplingua.com 786-315-5410 Unique Spanish, French and English immersion www.miamidade.gov/summercamps programs offer children a fun, enriching The third largest county park system in the summer experience while developing language United States offers a variety of fun-filled and critical thinking skills. Children engage in summer camp choices at over 32 locations language learning through daily language class including nature exploration, sports, aquatic followed by a true camp experience including adventures, performing arts, and more. both outdoor and indoor activities, horseback Visit website for details. riding, soccer, basketball, Gaga ball, volleyball, table tennis, archery, fishing, ropes, RC Track, YMCA OF SOUTH FLORIDA ASSOCIATION OFFICE arts, crafts, pottery, gardening, culture, 305-357-4000 field trips, water days, dance, music, www.ymcasouthflorida.org and more. A Leader in Training (LIT) program Y Membership Centers: (O) Family ZM_Spring2019_Camp1_2page_7_25x4_75_FINAL.pdf 1 2/11/19 AM available. is offered to teens.

Early bird 9:15 pricing

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

MIAMI SEAQUARIUM 4400 Rickenbacker Causeway, Miami 305-361-5705 www.miamiseaquarium.com Campers participate in interactive activities including educational games and crafts and marine life and animal interactions, while learning about life under the sea and ocean conservation.

STEMCAMP Located at Florida Christian School 4200 SW 89 Ave., Miami 305-300-2070 stemcamp.wixsite.com/science A Project Camp for incoming 7th, 8th and 9th graders allows students to create a science fair project under the direction of a certified science teacher during a 10-session program; and a Robotics Camp for incoming 5th, 6th and 7th graders offers campers the opportunity to work with Vex IQ Robotics.

ZOO MIAMI 12400 SW 152 St., Miami 305-255-5551 www.zoomiami.org

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Camp combines education with entertainment as kids form new friendships while learning about wildlife and the basics of environmental conservation.

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.

SOUTH FLORIDA YOUTH SYMPHONY Miami Dade College, North Campus Pawley Creative Arts Center

11380 NW 27 Ave., Miami 305-238-2729 www.sfys.net For kids who love creating music, the South Florida Youth Symphony offers its annual Music Academy summer camp for ages 8-18.

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.

Summer Learning

Special Needs Camp

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,

LANGUAGE

SUMMER CAMP SPANISH | ENGLISH | FRENCH

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

STEMCamp 2019 JUNE 17  28 • JULY 22  AUGUST 2

Activities

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

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

Leadership and Independence Skill-Building and so much more!

PROJECT CAMP

2 week program for incoming 7th to 9th graders where experienced state certified science teachers walk you through the entire science fair project and help you complete it over the course of the camp!

d visit Come anAcres of Our 22 P

CAM TRUEerience!

Exp

Visit our Website for Open House Dates

ROBOTICS CAMP

March 25-29

CHOOL AFTER-S 2019 Coming in

Plans ble ents Also Availa ym Ea a P rly B & ird Discounts

(954)-642-CAMP

MDFLTS /camplingua

1725 NE 135TH ST. NORTH MIAMI, FL 33181

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2 week program for incoming 5th to 7th graders who want to try their hands at Vex IQ Robotics!

Learn how to assemble and drive Vex robots.

There is a SECME engineering option as well.

Please inquire at registration.

786-252-1383

stemcamp@yahoo.com 4200 SW 89th Ave. • Miami StemCampMiami.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION 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

CUTLER BAY

PINECREST

305-238-4166 www.cutlerbay-fl.gov

305-234-2121 www.pinecrest-fl.gov

DORAL

SOUTH MIAMI

305-593-6600 www.cityofdoral.com

305-668-3876 www.southmiamifl.gov

HIALEAH

SUNNY ISLES BEACH

305-687-2650 www.hialeahfl.gov

305-792-1799 www.sibfl.net

HIALEAH GARDENS

SURFSIDE

305-558-2331 www.cityofhialeahgardens.com

305-866-3635 www.townofsurfsidefl.gov

HOMESTEAD

SWEETWATER

305-224-4570 www.cityofhomestead.com

305-551-4774 www.cityofsweetwater.fl.gov

KEY BISCAYNE

WEST MIAMI

305-365-8900 www.keybiscayne.fl.gov

305-261-5566 www.cityofwestmiamifl.com

MIAMI

Sleep Away Camp

305-416-1300 www.miamigov.com MIAMI BEACH

305-673-7730 www.miamibeachfl.gov MIAMI GARDENS

305-622-8000 www.miamigardens-fl.gov

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.

MIAMI LAKES

AVENTURA

NORTH MIAMI

305-466-8008 www.cityofaventura.com

305-895-9840 www.northmiamifl.gov

BAY HARBOR ISLANDS

NORTH MIAMI BEACH

786-646-9970 www.bayharborislands-fl.gov

305-948-2957 www.citynmb.com

BISCAYNE PARK

OPA-LOCKA

305-893-3711 www.biscayneparkfl.gov

305-953-2875 www.opalockafl.gov

CORAL GABLES

PALMETTO BAY

305-460-5600 www.coralgables.com

305-259-1234 www.palmettobay-fl.gov

305-364-6100 www.miamilakes-fl.gov MIAMI SHORES

305-758-8103 www.miamishoresvillage.com MIAMI SPRINGS

305-805-5075 www.miamisprings-fl.gov

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.

We Have A Camp For That

SUMMER CAMPS

www.miamidade.gov/summercamps • 786-315-5410

Juneu10 t hr August 9 18

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Convenient Hours • Affordable Rates • Over 32 Locations To request materials in accessible format, sign language interpreters, and/or any accommodation to participate in any Miami-Dade Parkssponsored program or meeting, contact Mary Palacios, 305-755-7848 or Mary.Palacios@miamidade.gov, at least 7 days in advance to initiate your request. TTY users may also call 711 (Florida Relay Service). | miamidadefamilylife.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Campers will enjoy an interactive and hands-on experience while they learn about wildlife conservation and life under the sea! This year's camp programs will be full of new games, activities, and learning experiences!

LL ENRO !

W NO

SPRING CAMP: March 25-29 SUMMER CAMP: June 10 - August 16

BOOK EARLY AND SAVE! VISIT MIAMISEAQUARIUM.COM/EDUCATION FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 305-361-5705 EXT. 526 OR 207, OR EMAIL EDUCATION@MSQ.CC

Summer 2019

SUMMER CAMP 305.226.0030 Lakes of

Gulliver’s highly-acclaimed Summer Programs are back in their 50th year with Camp Gulliver, Athletics Camps, STEAM, and Summer Studies for Middle and High School students.

the Meadow

KIDS ASK FOR US

BY NAME

With so much to choose from, there’s something for everyone!

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF FUN AND FRIENDSHIP

Registration opens March 1 To learn more, please visit

gulliver.life/summer

ACT•SING•DANCE www.RoxyPAC.com March 2019 | M I A M I - D A D E F A M I LY L I F E

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PARENTING PERFECTED THE TOP 10 APPS TO HELP SIMPLIFY LIFE FOR NEW PARENTS

BY TANNI HAAS

ecoming a parent is one of the most rewarding yet demanding experiences a person will ever have.

Thankfully, there are many apps to make life a bit easier.

Here’s a list of the top apps for new parents, and not-so-new parents may find them helpful, too. They’re all free, so download away!

UNIVERSAL BABY MONITOR (Available at Apple Appstore; Google Play) Peace of mind depends not only on your baby getting a good night sleep, but also on whether everything is OK when you’re not there, in the bedroom, with the baby. Universal Baby Monitor is an app that lets you check on your baby while she’s sleeping, and it detects if your baby moves or wakes up and immediately alerts you.

COZI FAMILY ORGANIZER (Available at Amazon Appstore, Apple App Store, Google Play) One of the keys to a happy relationship with your partner after the baby has arrived is clear communication about who’s supposed to do what and when. Step 1: Get Cozi Family Organizer. This app has a shared calendar where you and your partner can see each other’s calendars, and a shared shopping list where you can see when things to buy are added or crossed off the list in real time.

You can also use the app to send automatic reminders to each other, make to-do lists, and organize receipts in a common place.

BABY TRAVEL (Available at Apple App Store) Going on a trip with your baby for the first time can be an unnerving experience. What should you bring? Do you need different things if you’re driving or flying? What about medications? Before you do anything else, take a deep breath and then download Baby Travel. This app has lots of helpful tips on

PABOBO (Available at Apple App Store) You’ll quickly discover that a good night’s sleep very much depends on whether your baby gets the same. An app that can help you and your baby sleep soundly is Pabobo. It has six gentle nightlights in different colors that, together with accompanying lullabies, can help your baby fall asleep and stay asleep. It also has a

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what to pack no matter where you’re going, and it even lets you tell family and friends your departure and arrival times.

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timer that lets you decide how long the lights should be on, and an alarm that goes off if your baby starts to cry.

SITORSQUAT (Available at Apple App Store, Google Play) When you’re out and about with your baby, it’s so frustrating when you can’t find a clean public restroom with a changing table.

SitOrSquat is a location-based app that lets you to find just that wherever you are. The app has a user-generated list of more than 100,000 public restrooms throughout the United States, and it tells you how long it’ll take you to get to the nearest one. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to post pictures and rate the restrooms as either “Sit” (good) or “Squat” (bad).

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SMILING MIND (Available at Apple App Store, Google Play) As a new parent, one of the things you’ll crave the most is a few quiet moments to just relax, and this app offers just that. Smiling Mind has hundreds of guided meditations that help you tune everything out and focus on your breathing while visualizing calming images.

The cool thing about this app is that it also has meditations for kids age 7 and up, as well as meditations that parents can do together with their kids as they grow up.

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WAHOO 7 MINUTE WORKOUT (Available at Apple App Store, Google Play) Let’s be honest: No matter how incredibly enjoyable it is, being a new parent is physically exhausting. Finding the time to exercise can be difficult, but we all have seven minutes a day to spare.

Wahoo 7 Minute Workout is one of the most popular short-interval fitness apps available. The routine is divided into 12 high-intensity exercises that last for 30 seconds, with 10 seconds of rest intervals.

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The exercises train your chest, abs, arms and legs through body-weight training, push-ups, sit-ups and squats. You don’t need any equipment so you can do the exercises wherever and whenever.

WEBMD BABY (Available at Apple App Store, Google Play) No app can substitute for a real-life visit to your baby’s pediatrician.

But in between visits, you may want to consult WebMD Baby.

The app has lots of physician-reviewed information for new parents.

You can look up medical conditions and treatments, get information on vaccines, and find contact information for local hospitals, physicians and pharmacies.

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WINNIE (Available at Apple App Store, Google Play) Sometimes, what you crave more than anything else is just to connect with other new parents and get their advice on what to do in certain situations. When you get that urge, download Winnie.

Known as the Yelp for parents, this app lets you interact with a large network of other parents to ask questions. The app also has a large directory of baby-friendly restaurants, parks and shopping centers.

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CDC’S MILESTONE TRACKER (Available at Apple App Store, Google Play) It’s great to stay organized with all the things you need to do for your baby, but how do you know that your baby is developing as it should? Milestone Tracker is a development-tracking app that has been developed by the highly respected Centers for Disease Control.

The app has a comprehensive checklist that lets you see if your baby is reaching various milestones, advice on what you can do to stimulate your baby’s development, and suggestions about where to go if you’re concerned about how your baby is doing.

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APPS FOR FIRST-TIME DADS If you want your husband to really be there for you and with you — from pregnancy, to delivery, to taking care of your new baby — encourage him to download these apps, which give great advice for every step of the way. The best part is that they’re all free, so share the following reviews with your husband:

This awesome app lets you time your wife’s contractions and record the length of each one and the intervals between them. You can add notes to describe each contraction, which is very useful to update the OB/GYN or midwife if you’re going to the hospital or birthing center.

DADDY UP

(Available at Amazon Appstore, Apple App Store, Google Play) Once the baby arrives, your life will change radically and forever.

Suddenly, you’ll need to keep track of a whole host of things, including your baby’s feedings, diaper changes and sleep. Hatch Baby can help you stay organized and on top of things. It lets you record and track all your baby-related responsibilities, which will also help you learn about your baby’s patterns.

(Available at Apple App Store, Google Play) As a man, you can be forgiven for not knowing what it’s like to be pregnant. But do yourself a favor and get Daddy Up. This app has all the advice you could possibly want about what it feels like to be pregnant and what you can do to support your wife through the many changes she’s going through. It’s written by other dads who’ve been through this, so they know what they’re talking about.

The app has a journal log to jot down your thoughts and feelings as you and your wife go through this journey together.

CONTRACTION TIMER (Available at Amazon Appstore, Apple App Store) When the time is up, you want to be ready to get your wife to the hospital or birthing center ASAP, or if you’re having a home birth, to let the doula begin her support. Contraction Timer can help you with that.

HATCH BABY

LIFE OF DAD (Available at Apple App Store, Google Play) Sometimes you may prefer not to just read about what it’s like to be a dad, but instead to connect in real-time with other dads and share your experiences. When you get that urge, download Life of Dad. Known as the social network for fathers, this app lets you speak directly to other dads around the world. You can talk to them about anything having to do with being a dad, as well as any other things in your life.

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Special

Maternity Hospitals Baptist Hospital

To help moms & dads navigate the journey of pregnancy and parenthood, here is a sampling of some of our favorite resources in and around Miami-Dade County.

8900 N. Kendall Dr., Miami 786-596-1960 www.baptisthealth.net The Family Birth Place at Baptist Hospital was created with parents in mind with a warm and comfortable environment and specially designed birthing suites. The latest technology is readily available for mothers and newborns, and neonatologists are available 24 hours a day for babies who need extra attention.

Programs for expectant parents include labor and delivery, breastfeeding and newborn care.

Homestead Hospital 975 Baptist Way, Homestead 786-578-0114 www.baptisthealth.net Homestead Hospital offers the comforts of home with the safety and security of a modern, technologically advanced hospital unit. Nurses are experienced in labor and delivery, newborn nursery and postpartum care. Anesthesiologists are available 24 hours a day and neonatologists are readily available for babies who require special, intensive medical care.

Jackson Health System •Jackson Memorial Hospital; 1611 NW 12 Ave., Miami, 305-585-4744 •Jackson North Medical Center; 160 NW 170 St., North Miami Beach, 305-654-5604 •Jackson South Medical Center; 9333 SW 152 St., Miami, 305-256-5382 www.jacksonhealth.org Jackson Health, designated by the World Health Organization and United Nations Children’s Fund as officially meeting Baby-Friendly standards, provides maternity care at Jackson Memorial, Jackson North and Jackson South locations.

A variety of birthing options are available, and specialists in maternal-fetal medicine, neonatal care and critical care are always on hand if needed.

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Kendall Regional strives to provide individualized, quality maternity and newborn care with compassion and respect in a warm environment.

The newly remodeled labor and delivery rooms offer a relaxing setting with state-of-the-art technology.

The secured maternity unit features 12 labor and delivery rooms, 2 operating rooms, a 4-bed recovery room, 23 private post partum rooms, a nursery, an 8-bed Level II and 5-bed Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

Mercy Hospital 3663 S. Miami Ave., Miami 305-854-4400 www.mercymiami.com The newly remodeled maternity wing at Mercy Hospital offers private birthing suites and spacious private postpartum suites with views of Biscayne Bay. The hospital’s Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, special care nursery and an expert neonatologist are available 24 hours a day should the need arise. Mercy Hospital also offers childbirth education classes, lactation services, prenatal education, infant CPR and more.

Palmetto General Hospital 2001 W. 68 St., Hialeah 305-823-5000 www.palmettogeneral.com The recently expanded Maternity Care Center at Palmetto General Hospital provides comprehensive services for expectant mothers through every stage of pregnancy. The team is comprised of board eligible and certified physicians and an experienced, multilingual nursing staff. A number of maternity education classes including Childbirth Preparation, Infant Breastfeeding, Newborn Care and Infant and Child CPR are offered.

South Miami Hospital 6200 SW 73 St., South Miami, 786-662-4000 www.baptisthealth.net The Center for Women & Infants at South Miami Hospital is equipped with leading-edge technology and a team of highly skilled doctors, specialists and nurses to care for mothers and newborns from preconception to delivery. A Great Expectations program offers parents information about childbirth and parenting, and a Fetal Special Care and Maternal-Fetal Special Care Unit is available for high-risk pregnancies.

Kendall Regional Medical Center

West Kendall Baptist Hospital

11750 SW 40 St., Miami 305-223-3000 www.kendallmed.com

9555 SW 162 Ave., Miami 786-467-2000 www.baptisthealth.net

| miamidadefamilylife.com

Delivery Equipped with modern technology and a skilled staff, the Beautiful Beginnings Family Birthing Place focuses on a patient and family-centered care philosophy. The Beautiful Beginnings Program for Expectant Parents offers a variety of classes for new and experienced parents including topics childbirth preparation, breast-feeding, newborn parenting, epidural anesthesia, Cesarean births and infant CPR.

Medical Insurance

Adoption Resources

Moms’ Groups

A Child is Waiting

www.davethomasfoundation.org This free resource takes you through the typical 10 steps to adopt, from thinking about which type of adoption is right for you to celebrating adoption day.

Childnet www.childnet.us 954-414-6000

Florida Department of Children and Families www.myflfamilies.com 866-762-2237

Florida’s Adoption Information Center www.adoptflorida.com 800-96-ADOPT

Forever Family www.foreverfamily.org 1-888-365-FAMILY

Florida KidCare

888-540-5437 www.floridakidcare.org Free or low-cost health insurance for children, sponsored by the state of Florida.

MOMS Clubs www.momsclub.org Connect with other moms in your neighborhood for social gatherings, playdates and more. Chapters exist in many communities, or get support to start your own club.

Mothers of Preschoolers www.mops.org Meet other like-minded moms through this international support network of Christian women with preschool children. Groups meet regularly at churches in Miami, Miami Springs, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay, Homestead, and other communities. Check their website for locations.

Postpartum Depression Postpartum Support International 800-944-4773 www.postpartum.net Postpartum Support Online www.ppdsupportpage.com

Support for Parents Family Central

Most hospitals offer breastfeeding classes, lactation specialists and support groups.

In addition, check out these resources.

10800 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami 305-749-8600 www.familycentral.org Not-for-profit agency offers childcare assistance, counseling, education, family therapy and more.

Breastfeeding Helpline

Start Coalition of Miami-Dade

1-800-994-9662 www.womenshealth.gov National helpline offers support from trained breastfeeding counselors in both English and Spanish.

7205 NW 19 St., Miami 305-541-0210 www.hscmd.org Serves as part of a statewide network of community-based organizations to reduce Florida’s high infant mortality and improve the lives of pregnant women and their families.

The Coalition is responsible for the establishment and oversight of the Miami-Dade Healthy Start system, which includes directing local, state and federal funding and provides oversight to local community organizations that deliver direct services to pregnant women and families of newborns, continuous care coordination to pregnant women and children birth to age three, evaluating services and the needs of the community, and quality assurance and improvement responsibilities.

Breastfeeding

La Leche League www.llli.org Mother-to-mother support, encouragement, information, and education.

Infertility Resolve www.resolve.org A national nonprofit support group to assist couples dealing with infertility issues.

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FAMILY health

Taming the Time Change BYPASS BEDTIME CHAOS WHEN THE CLOCKS SPRING FORWARD

BY MALIA JACOBSON

I

f you’ve got little ones at home, chances are you’re not a fan of “spring forward,” the annual Daylight Saving Time ritual that throws off bedtime for kids from coast to coast.

When clocks jump ahead one hour in the spring — on Sunday, March 10, this year — the most common complaint from parents is that kids won’t go to bed “on time.” It’s not hard to understand why: When the clock reads 8pm, your child’s body thinks it’s 7. When 9 or 10pm rolls around and kids still aren’t tired, parents

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get understandably grumpy.

It’s not just bedtime that gets wonky: Many parents find that DST throws off kids’ wake times and nap times, too.

An hour’s worth of time change is a lot for little bodies to handle; for a baby or toddler, it’s akin to jet lag. Some particularly sensitive kids (or those who are already overtired) can take days — or weeks — to adapt to the new time shown on the clock.

Want to help your little one take the time change in stride? Here’s how to

| miamidadefamilylife.com

“spring forward” without missing a beat.

(For simplicity, this example uses a 7am wake-up and a 7pm bedtime. Adjust as needed for your family.)

RISE AND SHINE The key to helping your child fall asleep at his normal bedtime on clock-change day is waking him up earlier that morning, and for a few mornings preceding the change. Here’s why: If he sleeps until his body’s regular wake-up time (say, 7am) on clock-change day, the clock will read 8.

If you try to put him to bed that night at

7pm, his regular bedtime, only 11 hours have elapsed since he woke up, and he’s not likely to be tired enough to go to sleep.

This is especially true if he slept a bit later than normal that morning.

DST occurs on a weekend, so many parents allow children to sleep later than normal. During the rest of the year, sleeping in up to an hour on weekends isn’t a big problem, but when you add the time change, things can quickly go awry.

PLANNING AHEAD The best way to avoid any sleep disruption: plan in advance. Beginning two to three days before the change, begin waking your child 30 minutes earlier in the morning, and putting her to bed 30 minutes earlier at night. For babies and young children who still nap, make corresponding adjustments to naps by moving them 30 minutes earlier as well. In this example, that would mean waking your child at 6:30am and putting her to bed at 6:30pm. (This may sound like an extremely early bedtime, but it’s only for a couple of days.)

On the morning of DST, wake your child at his normal wake-up time. If he normally wakes at 7am Standard time, wake him at 7 Daylight time. (This will actually be 6am, according to his body clock, but you’ve prepped him for this change with a couple days of early wakeups.) Offer naps at the normal times. No need to make adjustments here. Having awakened at 7am, he’ll be ready for sleep at his normal bedtime.

BEFORE YOU BOOK THE NEXT SUMMER CAMP #AskTheAllergist 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

South Florida’s Most Common Spring Allergies ALLERGIC ASTHMA MOLD RAIN POLLEN CROSS REACTIVITY OAK PALMS

LAST-MINUTE HELP No time to prep your child a couple of days before the time change? No problem.

Just remember to wake your child at her normal wake-up time (not the adjusted time) on clock-change day. If she normally wakes at 7am, get her up at 7 — her body will still think it’s 6am, so she’ll probably still be snoozing and she’ll be tired, because she lost an hour of sleep. But she will be ready to sleep at her regular bedtime that night. (And you won’t have a wide-awake kid bouncing off the walls while you’re trying to watch TV!)

Malia Jacobson is a sleep coach and journalist whose latest book is Sleep Tight, Every Night: Helping Toddlers and Preschoolers Sleep Well Without Tears, Tricks, or Tirades. She’s also a mom of three presumably well-rested kids.

Florida-Allergy.com

1.877.4.ALLERGY (1.877.4.255.3749)

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

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FAMILY man

Laughing Matters A DAD DISCOVERS THE MUTUAL JOYS OF JOKING AROUND WITH THE KIDS

BY GREGORY KEER

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ou know that refreshed feeling when you get home from a long day of hitting deadlines and sitting through meetings at work? The rush of energy that comes after driving in traffic and realizing there’s still dinner to be made and cleaned up? The burst of cognitive ability and stamina that magically materializes with each kid’s request to help with drawing a map of Europe or explaining the importance of long division?

Yeah, me neither.

I could continue recounting the reasons why I’m too exhausted to enjoy being a parent, something I occasionally do in my columns, but I’m here to write about something that makes me feel better despite the real effort it requires.

Something that I often forget to draw on in my endeavors to take life seriously.

That is, I need to take life a little less seriously.

This hardly earth-shattering realization started one evening after I gave my first child a bath when he was just shy of two years old. Kept awake and a tad grumpy by his splashing me with watermelon soap-infused bathwater, I reached for a terrycloth towel that had a little hood on it. In a moment of inspiration, I packed my son into a robe and put the hooded towel over my head.

“Dadda wearing my towel,” he said with a giggle.

“Yes, yes, I am,” I replied, wondering what to do next.

More giggles — just for wearing a child-sized towel on my head.

“I’m wearing this because ... I am Towel Man!” I announced.

Then, with my son on one arm, I intentionally walked into the bathroom door — slapping my hand to make a loud

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noise — as if I’d somehow mistaken it for being open.

Now, we had chuckles from the boy.

I threw open the door and proceeded to bump into walls and more doors, making myself exhausted but procuring peals of laughter from my son who kept exclaiming, “Again! Again, Towel Man!” From that night on, Towel Man made many appearances to save the day not only for my first son but for my next two boys.

They all loved it. And what child doesn’t love going along for the ride while his father feigns injury — and occasionally real, though mild, pain — all over the house?

As the kids got older, the purposely slapstick stuff got old, too. Yet the desire to make them laugh, and thereby perk myself up, continued. So I developed a repertoire of other comedic tools, including going trick-or-treating in my children’s old Halloween costumes, which clearly did not fit without some creative application.

There have also been the time-tested Dad Jokes, including ones my father used.

“Hi, kiddo, you look different,” I’d say.

“Of course I do,” they’d say. “I got a haircut.”

“Looks like you got ’em all cut.”

The key with Dad Jokes is understanding that they don’t have to be all that creative or even clever. You merely have to say them, with every bit of the cornball quality they contain. If it makes them smile, great. If it makes them squirm from embarrassment, even better.

Not all tools of silliness need to be original. I spent hours in brick-and-mortar and online stores finding humorous picture books, then chapter books as the kids grew. Some of the favorites included Goodnight Gorilla, with its hilarious drawings, and the more obscure The Naughty Prince, which I would read with a terrible French accent. Foreign voices were a big hit with my boys, who liked hearing me try my hand at character work.

Then, there’s TV and film. Through the years, I’ve watched Sesame Street and Dora the Explorer and, later, Disney and Nickelodeon sitcoms, not because they entertained me but because it was a joy to watch my kids guffaw. Lately, I’ve been watching the prime-time show The Goldbergs with my youngest son.

It’s over-the-top and cartoony at times,

but, man, is it ever funny and relatable.

How can you not laugh at parents who make so many mistakes and still manage to have their kids see them as loving, caring people? For movies, I’ve been able to be pickier in selecting Shrek and The Sandlot, as well as screening Mel Brooks and Jim Carrey classics as the boys have gotten older.

What has been important through all of this is that I have partaken of as much silliness as possible with my kids. It’s not enough for them to enjoy it all on their own. I’ve wanted — and often needed — to experience the laughter with them.

While it does indeed get harder to get your kids’ attention with a litany of puns or an invitation to watch a Marx Brothers oldie when they could be out with friends, it’s always worth the effort. Even if they don’t laugh audibly, I can somehow manage a smile from them.

For that, I’m forever happy to run into a door.

Gregory Keer is an award-winning syndicated columnist, teacher and guest expert in national media.

COME FACE-TO-FACE WITH PREHISTORIC SEA MONSTERS They’ve traveled 75 million years to get here.

Immerse inside an ancient aquarium and get up close with a 45-foot long Tylosaurus. Touch fossils, engage with interactive touch screens and submerse yourself in the oceans as they were ages ago. Enjoy this life-like exhibition of these long-extinct animals only at Miami Seaquarium for a limited time.

PREMIERING THIS SPRING! MIAMISEAQUARIUM.COM

RIGHT NOW, BUY A DAY, GET 2019 FREE PROMOTIONAL OFFER EXPIRES MARCH 22, 2019.

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

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MarchEvents 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 Discovering Design SATURDAY, MARCH 2

Kids can build their own floating art deco house using shapes and features found in some of the local architecture during this free family day. Noon-3pm, THE WOLFSONIAN FIU, 1001 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, 305-531-1001 www.wolfsonian.org

Day Out With Thomas SATURDAYS-SUNDAYS, MARCH 2-3 & 9-10

Take a ride on a full size Thomas the Tank Engine and meet Sir Topham Hatt in this train celebration that includes storytelling, entertainers, arts and crafts and more.

Advance purchase is recommended. $16-$20. GOLD COAST RAILROAD MUSEUM, 12450 SW 152 St., Miami, 305-253-0063 www.gcrm.org

Dr. Seuss Birthday Party TUESDAY, MARCH 5 Disney on Ice

IT’S SHOWTIME! The Very Hungry Caterpillar FRIDAY-SATURDAY, MARCH 1-2

Eric Carle’s beloved book is retold onstage through the magic of black lights and fanciful puppets. Admission is free, but tickets are required. Friday 10:30am, Saturday 3pm.

You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown

THURSDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 14-17

Have some fun with the whole Peanuts gang including beloved Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Schroeder, Sally and Linus. $45-49.

A fun-filled celebration with original stage performances, Truffula Tree making in the art studio, cake, face painting, balloon twisting and more. 10am-6pm, MIAMI CHILDREN’S MUSEUM, 980 MacArthur Causeway, Miami, 305-373-5437 www.miamichildrensmuseum.org

Made at PAMM

THURSDAY, MARCH 7

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY AUDITORIUM,

AVENTURA ARTS & CULTURAL CENTER,

2901 W. Flagler St., Miami, 305-547-5414 www.miamidadecountyauditorium.org

3385 NE 188 St., Aventura, 305-466-8002 www.aventuracenter.org

Every first Thursday of the month kids can create art inspired by works on view in the galleries. Free. 11am-2pm, PÉREZ ART MUSEUM MIAMI, 1103 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 305-375-3000 www.pamm.org

Le Papillon, The Butterfly

Flamenco Festival

Mighty Women

SUNDAY, MARCH 17

SATURDAY, MARCH 9

Arts Ballet Theatre presents this two-act, fairy themed ballet about a princess who is turned into a butterfly after a spell is cast on her. Recommended for ages 4 and up. $35. Saturday 7:30pm, Sunday 3pm. AVENTURA ARTS & CULTURAL CENTER, 3385 NE 188 St., Aventura, www.aventuracenter.org

Celebrated for her talented footwork and captivating stage presence, Sara Baras presents a performance of traditional flamenco with a contemporary edge. 2pm, ADRIENNE ARSHT

Bring the family to celebrate International Women’s Day at this Free Family Fun Day with crafts, storytelling and more.

10am-5pm, HISTORYMIAMI MUSEUM, 101 W. Flagler St., Miami, 305-375-1492 www.historymiami.org

SATURDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 2-3

Star Wars: A New Hope in Concert

THURSDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 21-24

Let the force lead you to the Adrienne Arsht Center to enjoy a Star Wars film with an award-winning score played by an 81-piece orchestra. 2:30pm & 7pm, ADRIENNE ARSHT CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 786-468-2000 www.arshtcenter.org

American Idiot

Join Ana, Elsa, Olaf and friends as they set the stage for a skating adventure. $18 and up.

AMERICANAIRLINES ARENA, 601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 786-777-1000 www.aaarena.com

Zoppé, An Italian Family Circus

FRIDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 22-24

MARCH 8-24

Based on Green Day’s album of the same name, this high-energy rock opera is a two-time Tony Award-winning musical. Show times vary. AREA STAGE COMPANY, 1560 S. Dixie Highway, Miami, 305-666-2078 www.areastagecompany.com

M I A M I - D A D E F A M I LY L I F E

1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 786-468-2000 www.arshtcenter.org

Disney on Ice: Frozen

SUNDAY, MARCH 3

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CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS,

An eighth generation family circus with bareback riding, equestrian stunts, performing dogs, clowns, acrobats, jugglers and more. $22.50-$50. SOUTH MIAMI-DADE CULTURAL ARTS CENTER, 10950 SW 211 St., Cutler Bay, 786-573-5300

| miamidadefamilylife.com

Family Day

SUNDAY, MARCH 17

Join the Miami Design District and the Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami, for free family activities that celebrate Women in Art. 1-4pm, ICA MIAMI, 61 NE 41 St., Miami, www.miamidesigndistrict.net

Storytime at PAMM SATURDAY, MARCH 23

Every fourth Saturday of the month kids ages 3-5 with a caregiver can build on foundations of literacy with a gallery experience, a story reading and related art activity. 11am-noon, PÉREZ ART MUSEUM MIAMI, 1103 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 305-375-3000 www.pamm.org

FAIRS, FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS Day in the Park

Asian Culture Festival

Chili Cook Off

Miami-Dade Parks celebrates its 90th anniversary with a mega family fun day with a selection of activities including nature walks, scavenger hunts, music, prizes, fishing clinics and more at A VARIETY OF PARK LOCATIONS COUNTY-WIDE. 10am-2pm.

Visit www.miamidade.gov/parks for details.

Festival features Asian crafts, cuisine, art and exotic music and dance. $12/adult, $5/child.

10am-5pm, FRUIT & SPICE PARK, 24801 SW 187 Ave., Homestead, 305-247-5727 www.redlandfruitandspice.com

This country-style event features a chili cook off, live bands, line-dancing, mechanical bull riding, entertainment and more. Noon-5pm, PINECREST GARDENS, 11000 Red Rd., Pinecrest, 305-669-6990 www.pinecrestgardens.org

SATURDAY, MARCH 2

SATURDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 2-3

Archaeology Day

SATURDAY, MARCH 23

Orchid Festival

FRIDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 8-10

SATURDAY, MARCH 2

Step back in time with archaeology demonstrations, activity booths and walking tours of the natural areas. $10/adult, $7/child. 10am-4pm, DEERING ESTATE,16701 SW 72 Ave., Miami, 305-235-1668 www.deeringestate.org

Unity Day

Take in the beauty of Fairchild where more than 10,000 orchid plants will be on display. $25/adult, $12/child. 9:30am-4:30pm, FAIRCHILD TROPICAL BOTANIC GARDEN, 10901 Old Cutler Rd., Coral Gables, 305-667-1651 www.fairchildgarden.org

Youth Music Festival SATURDAY, MARCH 9

SATURDAY, MARCH 2

A day of fun with rides, inflatables, obstacle course, touch-a-truck, K-9 demonstrations, vendors, carnival food and more. 11am-4pm, MIAMI SHORES RECREATION FIELDS, 9825 Park Dr., Miami Shores, www.miamishoresvillage.com

Young musicians will display their talents live on two stages. 5-11pm, NORTH BEACH BANDSHELL, 7275 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, www.northbeachbandshell.com

Miami-Dade County Fair & Expo MARCH 14-APRIL 7

Carnaval on the Mile

SATURDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 2-3

A celebration of all things Miami including art, music, fashion, food and sports. Free. ALONG MIRACLE MILE, Coral Gables, www.carnavalmiami.com

Immense fair with nearly 100 rides, carnival food, livestock and agricultural competitions, concerts, shows, student exhibits and more. FAIR EXPO CENTER, 10901 Coral Way, Miami, 305-223-7060 www.fairexpo.com

Fishing Derby

SUNDAY, MARCH 24

Have some fun fishing, while helping Zoo Miami clean its lakes of invasive fish.

Rods and bait provided. $50/person, includes breakfast and full day zoo admission. 7-10am, ZOO MIAMI, 12400 SW 152 St., Miami, 305-251-0400 www.zoomiami.org

Deering Seafood Festival SUNDAY, MARCH 31

A celebration of seafood, celebrity chef demonstrations, kids’ games and rides, live entertainment, educational activities and more. $25/adult, $10/child.

Food and some activities are an additional fee. 10am-6pm, DEERING ESTATE, 16701 SW 72 Ave., Miami, 305-235-1668 www.deeringestate.org

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES Dr. Seuss Storytime SATURDAY, MARCH 2

Celebrate the birthday of Dr. Seuss with an adventure filled with stories, singing and Dr. Seuss characters.

11am-1:30pm, DORAL LEGACY PARK, 11400 NW 82 St., Doral, 305-593-6611 www.cityofdoral.com

Family Fun Club SATURDAY, MARCH 2

Spend some family time reading, dancing and making arts and crafts.

All ages. 11am, NORTH CENTRAL LIBRARY, 9590 NW 27 Ave., Miami, 305-693-4541 www.mdpls.org

Farmers Market at Merrick Park SATURDAYS, MARCH 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30

Bring the family for a selection of fresh Florida produce, children’s activities, free Tai Chi classes, gardening workshops, cooking demonstrations and more. 8am-2pm CORNER OF MIRACLE MILE & LEJEUNE RD.,

Coral Gables, www.coralgables.com

Percussion-Palooza SUNDAY, MARCH 3

Bring the family to listen to music and learn about all things percussion from students and educators during this interactive performance. Stay for juice and cookies after the show. $18/adult,

$12/child. 3pm, PINECREST GARDENS, 11000 SW 57 Ave., Pinecrest, www.pinecrestgardens.org

Plant Growing SUNDAY, MARCH 3

Children ages 9 and older can learn how to build their own home version of Fairchild’s LED plant growing chamber, plant some edible greens and take it home to watch them grow. $75. 1-4pm, FAIRCHILD TROPICAL BOTANIC GARDEN, 10901 Old Cutler Rd., Coral Gables, 305-667-1651 www.fairchildgarden.org

The Family Dinner Project FRIDAY, MARCH 8

Enjoy quality time with the family, a Vizcaya harvest meal, lawn games, and an outdoor movie with s’mores.

Registration required. $22/adult, $10/child. 6-9pm, VIZCAYA MUSEUM AND GARDENS, 3251 S. Miami Ave., Miami, 305-250-9133 www.vizcaya.org

Bikes, Books & BBQ SATURDAY, MARCH 9

Take a bike ride over to the park for a family-friendly event that includes a bike obstacle course, helmet fittings, book giveaways, information booths and food. Free. 11am-1pm, MURRAY PARK, 5800 SW 66 St., South Miami, 305-668-3873 www.southmiamifl.gov

Origami

SATURDAY, MARCH 9

Let your creativity unfold as you wrap and fold a variety of origami designs from simple to complex. Ages 5-12.

3pm, LAKES OF THE MEADOW LIBRARY, 4284 SW 152 Ave., Miami, 305-222-2149 www.mdpls.org

Barnacle Under Moonlight Concert SATURDAY, MARCH 9

Kick back and listen to music by the bay the second Saturday of every month through May. $10/adult, $3/child. Gates open at 6pm. 7-9pm, BARNACLE HISTORIC STATE PARK,

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

St. Patrick’s Day Craft SATURDAY, MARCH 9

Kids ages 5-12 can have some holiday fun creating an Irish craft to take home. All materials provided. Noon, COCONUT GROVE LIBRARY, 2875 McFarlane Rd., Miami, 305-442-8695 www.mdpls.org

MUVE Volunteer Workday SATURDAY, MARCH 16

Join Frost Science for a restorative community service project and citizen science activities that include invasive plant removal, native species planting,

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.

marine debris clean up and biodiversity monitoring. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 10am-noon, EAST GREYNOLDS PARK, 16700 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami Beach, www.frostscience.org

Bike305

SUNDAY, MARCH 17

A Miami-Dade County initiative promoting bicycling as a fun and healthy way to stay fit. Free.

1-4pm, PATRICIA A. MISHCON FIELD, 16601 NE 15 Ave., North Miami Beach, 305-948-2957 www.citynmb.com

Spring Craft

SATURDAY, MARCH 30

Celebrate spring by decorating rocks to display in your garden. All ages.

Space limited. Call to pre-register.

2pm, LEMON CITY LIBRARY, 430 NE 61 St., Miami, 305-757-0662 www.mdpls.org

WANT MORE FUN? Check our extensive online calendar at www.miamidadefamilylife.com

March 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

Common Bonds HOW THE KINSHIP OF MOTHERHOOD REVEALS TRUE FRIENDS

BY DOLORES SMYTH

W

hen I became a mom, the question of where I stood took center stage in my life. In those early months of motherhood, I struggled to find my footing as a new parent in a strikingly literal (and comical) sense.

I discovered that changing my daughter’s diaper while in a sleep-deprived fog might cause me to drop said diaper and step full-bore onto its soiled side. Likewise, I discovered that walking around the house barefoot might end with me resting my full weight on a Lego.

Once the new mom haze dissipated, I felt a new pull to assess my footing in a broader sense.

I had always observed how esteemed (or not) I was in my relationships. Once I had children, I realized that everyone I let into my life influenced my mood and, consequently, the mood with which I parented.

Given my high regard for my friends, I resisted the warning of a sage mom acquaintance that once I had children, I would feel a chill from some of my (single and childless) longtime friends. I did not believe that would occur, as I did not have friends who begrudged other people their life choices. Or so I thought.

Soon after, one longtime non-mom friend floored me by announcing she couldn’t go out with me anymore because “a wing-woman can’t be someone’s mom.” Unaware that I’d even been someone’s wing-woman, I mourned the loss of that friendship with bewilderment and heartache.

Still other friends spent hours seeking my opinion on every detail of their dating mishaps but could barely find time to ask about my day or ask to see my baby. Ever. This growing lopsidedness in my friendships gripped me with resentment, distracting me from my child.

Eventually, this troubling chapter gave way to an empowering conclusion: I had control over whether I befriended supportive people — or unfriended self-serving ones. With that newfound clarity, I ended my one-sided friendships and joined several new mom groups in search of more reciprocal relationships in the hopes of connecting with women who were living the same kinds of struggles and victories I was experiencing.

Finding my so-called Mom Crew didn’t happen overnight.

I met my first mom friend at the park. She approached me,

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M I A M I - D A D E F A M I LY L I F E

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remarked that we had kids the same age and suggested a play-date. After that, outings became enjoyable for children and moms alike. I’d met someone whose embrace of motherhood’s complexities inspires me to this day.

She and I have befriended other supportive moms. My Mom Crew and I have stood by each other in good times and bad.

For example, when one of us was knocked down by heart-wrenching marital problems, the rest of us huddled around her.

We bring our strengths to our group for our children’s sake, as well. Our most creative member plans outings that nourish their sense of wonder; and each of us cares for the other’s kids when one of us is sick or has to attend a meeting midday.

I cherish my mom friends for helping me to maintain my sense of balance, which allows me to be at my most-present for my children, instead of wasting time mulling over the slights of lesser friendships.

My kids, in turn, have benefited from this more-grounded version of Mommy in leaps and bounds. I have my Mom Crew to thank for that.

Dolores Smyth is a freelance writer who writes about the joys and struggles of parenting. When she isn’t writing, you can find Dolores enjoying her husband, three young children and… well, you know who.

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