Miami Dade Family Life September 2018

MIAMI-DADE

COMPLIMENTARY

SEPTEMBER 2018

Stage

PRESENCE THE MAGICAL WORLD OF CHILDREN’S THEATER

after-school

ACTIVITIES

GUIDE Silence is

GOLDEN WHY KIDS NEED QUIET TIME

500 OFF

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call for consultation which includes Xrays

contents

SEPTEMBER 2018

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INTO THE WORLD OF MAKE-BELIEVE Introducing your children to the magic of theater.

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AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITY & ENRICHMENT GUIDE Searching for the best options for your kids after the bell rings?

Here’s help.

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10 STEPS TO HEALTHY COMPETITION How to make your child’s experience positive and fun.

ON THE COVER: Anthony Dara, 11, A Cover Angels winner Photographer: Lisa Nalven

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FROM THE EDITOR

MIAMI & MORE

FAMILY MAN

FAMILY HEALTH

Welcome to our debut Miami-Dade edition.

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

It’s always showtime for a stage-struck son.

To boost your child’s well-being, make time for quiet time.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

WORDS OF WISDOM

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

An anti-soccer mom hands down her sports aversion.

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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 • Anina Venuti ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Millie Jones 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@miamidadefamilylife.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 2018 by Family Life Media Group.

All rights reserved.

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.

September 2018 | M I A M I - D A D E F A M I LY L I F E

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FROM the editor

o l l e h MIAMI MEET THE TEAM

W

elcome to the premiere edition of Miami-Dade Family Life. Although we may seem like the new kid on the block, we’ve actually been publishing in Broward County for the past 12 years. In print and online, Family Life is an award-winning local magazine whose mission is to enrich the lives of families by providing the highest quality publication with an unparalleled commitment to our readers and our community. We are delighted to bring that same dedication to families living and working in Miami-Dade County.

As parents ourselves, we know all too well how hectic life can be. If you’ve managed to carve out a few minutes to read our magazine, we want to be sure we’re worthy of your time. For that reason, in each and every issue, we strive to present useful, local information that will enhance your family’s life, from comprehensive resources such as this month’s After School & Enrichment Guide, to news about the people, places and events throughout the county.

We’re driven by our goal to educate, enlighten and entertain with stories that will resonate with you.

Stories that will make you feel connected and, at times, empowered.

If it sounds as though we take our mission quite seriously, it’s true. But as everyone knows, it takes a village — or in our case, a very special team — to sustain top-notch quality. On this page, I am proud to introduce our staff of extremely talented professionals that are responsible for this issue and those to come.

Look for Miami-Dade Family Life every month in your child’s school, local library, doctor’s office, retail stores and more than 1,000 family-friendly businesses throughout the county. In addition, you can find us online at www.miamidadefamilylife.com.

We have so many exciting things planned for Miami-Dade and can’t wait to share them with you.

We are confident you will soon take us into your hearts as well as your homes, as we continue our labor of love to become Miami’s best resource for today’s families!

Lisa Goodlin

Stacey Jacques

Publisher

Associate Publisher

Lisa is a veteran in the parenting publishing

Stacey has been part of the Family Life

industry with more than 27 years experience.

team for nearly 10 years and oversees

Her aptitude to keep a pulse on the latest

the company’s day-to-day operations.

trends enables us to bring our readers the most

All of her “kids” have four legs —

up-to-date information across all media platforms.

a dog, cat, four horses and a pig.

She has two children, Brittany and Bryan.

Michelle Liem

Greg Carannante

Executive Editor

Assistant Editor

Michelle founded Broward Family Life Magazine

With more than 45 years of journalistic

12 years ago. She brings more than 30 years

experience as a writer, editor and art director,

experience in the fields of publishing, advertising

Greg writes and edits most of our

and marketing to Family Life Media Group.

magazines’ editorial content.

She has two daughters, Erica and

He has two sons, Christian and Pierre,

Stacey, our Associate Publisher.

and a 6-year-old grandson.

Shannon Pease-Severance

Anina Venuti

Suzy Miguelez

Associate Editor

Senior Account Manager

Senior Account Manager Suzy comes to Family Life Media Group

Shannon brings over 20 years of

Anina has been representing

editorial experience to our company.

Family Life Magazine for more than 10 years.

with 25 years experience in

She is responsible for compiling, reviewing,

She has an extensive background in sales

multimedia sales with proven

writing and editing content. She has two

and marketing, and loves spending time

success. She has two sons,

daughters, Riley and Madison.

with her young daughter, Gianna.

Brandon and Kevin.

Millie Jones

Carrie B. Weeks

Toni Kirkland

Account Executive

Creative Director

Production Assistant

Millie brings a wealth of professional

A graduate from the prestigious

Toni possesses more than 35 years

sales experience to Family Life Media Group’s

Rhode Island School of Design, Carrie

experience working in the publishing

team. She is the proud mom of a son,

brings more than 20 years of art direction

industry in graphic design, from

Chris, who previously served abroad

and creative experience to our team.

old-school paste-up, to digital production.

as an officer in the military.

She is mom to two sons, Cade and Daxson.

She has two sons, Daniel and Dylan.

Linda Seavey

Tom Gonzales

Lisa Nalven

Production Assistant

Digital Development Manager

Photographer

Linda Seavey is a graphic designer

With extensive experience in online

Throughout her career, Lisa has had

who knew she wanted to be an artist at the

publishing, Tom is responsible for the

a passion for photo philanthropy. In addition

age of 8 when her father gifted her with a set

successful development and implementation

to serving as our cover photographer,

of charcoals, watercolors and paper. She brings

of our company’s digital strategy and

she donates her photography services

more than 25 years experience to the Family Life

marketing efforts. He has three children,

to many charitable organizations.

team. Linda has a daughter, Julia.

Daniel, Noah and Alison.

She has two children, Liliana and Aden.

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&more

MIAMI

A Downtown Masterpiece F

or three fun-filled days, Downtown Miami will be transformed into a colorful extravaganza of unique cultural experiences for kids and adults alike.

From Sept. 7-9, Art Days will bring the community together with institutions, galleries and artists for special programs and free events that include children’s programs, exhibitions, performances, walking tours, art parties and more.

The Miami Center for Architecture and Design, 310 SE First St., will serve as the Art Days Hub, with staff members on hand to help plan visitors’ itineraries and the best routes to each venue.

The seventh-annual Downtown Development Authority event will kick off with a special free celebration Sept. 5 from 5:30-7:30pm at the Southeast Financial Center lower lobby, 200 S. Biscayne Blvd. There will be refreshments, music and a preview of some of the weekend’s festivities.

Fringe Projects will commission artist Keith Allyn Spencer to create a series of five hand-painted car covers to provide surprising and delightful encounters for passers-by and throughout downtown.

Highlights of kid-friendly events include: ART DAYS AT THE MIAMI CHILDREN’S MUSEUM — Sept. 7-9, noon-4pm, 980 MacArthur Causeway. Explore art through the medium of wire inspired by local artist, David Zalben. On Saturday and Sunday, meet the artist and create your own wire sculpture to add to a collaborative project. $10 admission when you show your Art Days program. Note: Adults are not

admitted without children nor are children without adults.

KIDS DANCE CLASS WITH HATTIE MAE WILLIAMS — Sept. 7, 3-4pm, National YoungArts Foundation, 2100 Biscayne Blvd.

A fun and creative kids class incorporating hip hop and jazz moves with YoungArts alumna Hattie Mae Williams. Parents are welcome to join.

ARTSLAUNCH2018: KIDS ZONE — Sept. 8, 10:30am-5pm, Adrienne Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd. Storytelling, drumming workshops and more enliven this day of fun activities for kids with South Florida Percussive Arts, Musical Fairy Tales,

Radio Lollipop, Delou Africa, Magic City Opera, the Greater Miami Youth Symphony and more.

FLORIDA POWER & LIGHT COMPANY’S COOLING STATION — Sept. 8 and 9, 10am5pm, Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science Plaza, 1101 Biscayne Blvd. Beat the heat at FPL’s Cooling Station, with a refreshing, cool blast of liquid nitrogen while learning how to become an energy expert with FPL’s smart tools.

Downtown’s free Miami Trolley and Metromover will connect to all events. For more info, please visit www.MiamiDDA.com/ArtDays

LIBRARIES PITCH IN WITH FREE TUTORING If you’ve ever tried to find tutoring or homework help for your kids, you know it doesn’t come easy or cheap. Now you have to look no further than Miami-Dade Public Libraries, where a recently launched program is doing it way better — easy and free!

The MDPLS Homework Help and Tutoring Program is doing its part to help make the new school year a successful one for students in grades K-12 by providing certified teachers for homework help

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and tutoring in reading, math and science. One-hour sessions are held at 18 branches on Saturdays at 10am, 11am and noon, with the exception of the Model City Branch on Wednesdays at 2pm, 3pm and 4pm.

“Part of our mission is to promote literacy and learning in our community,” says Library Director Ray Baker.

Space is limited and participation is confirmed on a first-come, first-served basis. Register at any branch or online at www.mdpls.org/tutor

FAMILY FUN AT AN OLD-FASHIONED FEE I f you haven’t had the chance to visit one of Miami’s most historic destinations — or if you’re ready for a return visit — Sept. 15 just might be the day. That’s when the Deering Estate at Cutler features its Deering Discovery Day — and admission is only $1 for ages 4 and older.

From 10am to 4pm, family fun highlighting Scouts and Volunteerism includes hands-on science activities, site orientations, tours of the historic homes and natural areas, and canoe tours (for an additional fee) at a big discount from its regular general admission of $12 (adults) and $7 (ages 4-14).

Located on 444 acres along the edge of Biscayne Bay, the 1920s-era estate of industrialist and conservationist Charles Deering is an environmental, archaeological and historical preserve listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Also, speaking of history, the Deering Estate historically has been known as Miami’s most haunted property. If you are the kind of person who can’t wait for Halloween to get spooked, the estate is the place to get a head start.

At Ghost Tours this month and next, boo-buffs can learn about sightings and experiences from actual paranormal investigations with P.R.I.S.M. (Paranormal Research & Investigative Studies Miami).

The Ghost Tours are from 8-10pm Sept. 7, 21 and 28 and Oct. 3 and 24. Tickets are $30 per person and can be purchased in advance online or by calling 305-235-1668, ext. 233. The estate is located at 16701 SW 72 Ave., Miami.

For more information visit www.deeringestate.org

MSQ 23946 Miami Dade Family Sep 18 Ad - Anniversary Month V3 7.25X4.75.pdf

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8/14/18

4:00 PM

IT’S OUR ANNIVERSARY! CELEBRATE WITH YOUR FRIENDS ALL MONTH LONG!

Join us for a birthday that’s too big for a single celebration. For 63 years, we’ve been connecting Miami families with friends for life. Be a part of the all the fun, especially on these dates: • Labor Day Celebration — Sept. 1-3 • Grandparents Weekend — Sept. 8-9 • Day Camp (kids 5-17 yrs.) — Sept. 19 • Beach Clean Up Celebration — Sept. 22

MIAMI SEAQUARIUM IS COMMITTED TO WILDLIFE CONSERVATION, INCLUDING THE RESCUE AND REHABILITATION OF MANATEES AND SEA TURTLES. LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR CONSERVATION EFFORTS AND EVENTS AT MIAMISEAQUARIUM.COM.

PURCHASE A SUMMER SAVINGS PASS FOR $58 ADULTS, $48 CHILDREN 3-12YRS. + TAX UNLIMITED VISITS TO LION COUNTRY SAFARI, MIAMI SEAQUARIUM, MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY & SCIENCE AND ZOO MIAMI UNTIL SEPTEMBER 30, 2018.

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&more

MIAMI

Savoring Miami’s Latin Flavors MiChiMu’s quinceañera couldn’t have come at a better time.

Hispanic Heritage Month starts Sept. 15 and Miami Children’s Museum is kicking off the month-long celebration by throwing a 15th Birthday Fiesta for its lovable mascot.

From 11am-5pm, festivities include games, a playful piñata, a Mariachi band, balloon twisting, face painting and several special performances by the museum Theater Ensemble.

And, of course, birthday cake!

Miami Children’s Museum is located at 980 MacArthur Causeway. For more info, call 305-373-KIDS(5437) or visit www.miamichildrensmuseum.org

• Sept. 20, 11-11:30am, Lakes of the Meadow Branch Library, 4284 SW 152 Ave., Miami, 305-222-2149.

• Sept. 25, 11-11:30am, Lakes of the Meadow Branch Library, 4284 SW 152 Ave., Miami, 305-222-2149.

• Sept. 25, 11-11:30am, Doral Branch Library, 10785 NW 58 St., 305-716-9598.

There are many other opportunities to celebrate the month with Hispanic-oriented regular or special events throughout the county. Here are some highlights: THE BARBERS OF MIAMI AND HAVANA: RELATIONS NOT CUT — Art exhibit for all ages by photographer Phil Eidenberg-Noppe taking viewers inside Cuban-American barber shops in the Miami area and Cuban barber shops in Havana. Through Dec. 21. Hispanic Branch Library, 1398 SW First St., Miami, 305-643-8574.

HISPANIC HERITAGE BILINGUAL STORYTIME — Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with stories in English and Spanish, crafts and activities for children and their caregivers. Contact library branches for appropriate ages welcomed at each session.

• Sept. 15, 11-11:45am, South Miami Branch Library Auditorium, 6000 Sunset Dr., Miami, 305-667-6121.

• Sept. 18, 10:30-11am, Hialeah Gardens Branch Library, 11300 NW 87 Ct., 305-820-8520.

• Sept. 25, 10:30-11am, Hialeah Gardens Branch Library, 11300 NW 87 Ct., 305-820-8520.

• Sept. 27, 12:30-1pm, Northeast Dade-Aventura Branch Library, 2930 Aventura Blvd., 305-931-5512.

• Sept 29, 2-3:30pm, West Dade Regional Branch Library, 9445 Coral Way, Miami, 305-553-1134.

• Sept. 27, 11-11:45am, Miami Lakes Branch Library, 6699 Windmill Gate Rd., Miami, 305-822-6520. Space is limited.

• Sept. 27, 11-11:30am, Lakes of the Meadow Branch Library, 4284 SW 152 Ave., Miami, 305-222-2149.

• Sept. 28, 10:15-11am, Pinecrest Branch Library, 5835 SW 111 St., 305-668-4571.

• Sept. 28, 11-11:45am, West Flagler Branch Library, 5050 W. Flagler St., Miami, 305-442-8710.

• Sept. 28,11:15am-noon, Pinecrest Branch Library, 5835 SW 111 St., 305-668-4571.

ART OF MOLA — The mola is a handmade material consisting of geometric patterns and shapes created by the Kuna people of Colombia and Panama. In this four-week workshop, participants will create their own designs and block print them on fabric. Space is limited. Contact the branch for registration. Ages 16 years and older. 6-7:30pm.

• Sept. 18 and 25, Miami Beach Regional Library, 227 22 St., 305-535-4219.

• Sept. 26, North Shore Branch Library, 7501 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305-864-5392.

HORA DE CUENTOS / SPANISH STORYTIME — Stories, songs and games for the whole family.

• Sept. 18 and 25, 6-6:45pm, Shenandoah Branch Library, 2111 SW 19 St, Miami, 305-250-4688.

• Sept. 26, 3:30-4:30pm, West Kendall Regional Library, 10201 Hammocks Blvd., Miami, 305-385-7135.

NOCHES CULTURALES — Highlighting Chile and its cultural aspects. Sept. 28, 6-8pm, West Dade Regional Branch Library, 9445 Coral Way, Miami, 305-553-1134.

CORAL GABLES HISPANIC CULTURAL FESTIVAL — This annual family-friendly and pet-friendly event features art, culture, folklore dance performances and musical acts, as well as a children’s pavilion with bounce houses and face painting. Oct. 20, noon-9pm, and Oct. 21, noon-8pm. Between Biltmore Way & LeJeune Road.

For more info, visit www.gableshispanicfestival.com or call 305-667-0577.

TALKING IS TEACHING: TALK, READ, SING FOR BABIES, TODDLERS & PRESCHOOLERS EN DOS IDIOMAS (IN TWO LANGUAGES) — Stories, songs and

activities in English and Spanish for children and their caregivers. Contact library branches for appropriate ages welcomed at each session.

• Sept. 18, 11-11:30am, Lakes of the Meadow Branch Library, 4284 SW 152 Ave., Miami, 305-222-2149.

• Sept. 20, 11-11:45am, Miami Lakes Branch Library, 6699 Windmill Gate Rd., Miami, 305-822-6520.

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A WORTHY CAUSE FOR CELEBRATION It may not be your typical 63rd birthday party, but Miami Seaquarium has come up with an environmentally appropriate way to celebrate the occasion this month — by helping to make a local beach cleaner and safer.

From 8-10am Sept. 22, the Seaquarium will host a beach clean-up at Historic Virginia Key Beach Park, the mile-long beach near downtown Miami. The event will feature a Conservation Station, where visitors can learn the different ways ocean conservation is addressed in Miami by various organizations and other ways people can help the environment.

For their efforts, clean-up participants will receive passes for free admission tickets to the Seaquarium. (For those who can’t make the event, the park has an online offer for $19.55 admission from Sept. 21-23.) Also, the first 50 participants will receive a free reusable water bottle.

Volunteers should bring close-toed shoes, reusable water bottle, gloves, bucket, hat and sunscreen. Gloves and

Seaquarium mascots Romeo the Manatee and Murtle the Turtle pitch in with the beach cleanup.

bags will be provided if necessary.

Historic Virginia Key Beach Park is located at 4020 Virginia Beach Dr., Miami.

For more info, visit www.miamiseaquarium.com or email education@msq.cc

®

2018 Not So Scary EVENT CHAIRS VIRGINIA & STEVEN WEBER PRESENTED BY

HONORARY CHAIR ROXANNE VARGAS

OCTOBER 14 | 1-5 PM MUSEUM MEMBER | $35 NON-MEMBER | $45 Prices will increase to $50 Tickets are limited!

980 macarthur causeway miami, fl 33132 • notsoscary.michimu.net September 2018 | M I A M I - D A D E F A M I LY L I F E

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make

into the

world of

Frog and Toad, Jr. at Area Stage Company

Cinderella at Actors’ Playhouse

School of Rock at Adrienne Arsht Center

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believe INTRODUCING THE MAGIC

YOUR KIDS TO OF THEATER

BY GREG CARANNANTE

A

loveable ogre named Shrek. A lion who would be king. A beauty named Belle.

These are just some of the many characters that will greet youngsters and their families when the house lights go down on Miami-Dade stages this season. At a variety of venues and local organizations, kids can discover or rediscover the make-believe worlds of the theater, through plays, dance or music — and usually all three in the same show!

“We have parents that come with babies in arms to the productions. And I think that’s the best age to start,” says Earl Maulding, director of theater for young audiences at Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theater in Coral Gables, which recently celebrated its 30th anniversary.

“We primarily do musicals, so there’s the musical aspect that will entertain them and keep them involved. And we make the shows very visual through extensive costumes, scenery and lighting — and even the style of the show. I always tell my actors, you’re not over-acting because kids think more in pictures.”

What’s key to a good introductory theater experience for children?

“It certainly helps if it’s a book or a story that they’ve heard before,” says Maulding, who created the children’s program at Actors’ Playhouse after starting off as a song-and-dance man during the theater’s infancy. “If you read to your children a lot, they’re going to be much more open to their imagination being alive — which is a great connection to theater. Bring them, and then it’s like a book come to life for them.” continued on page 14

The Lion King at Adrienne Arsht Center

Setting the Scene for your Child’s Theater Experience

BY DENISE YEARIAN In this hyperconnected world in which even the simplest toys and games are now electronic and/or virtual, giving your child a live theater experience is a real gift. Here are some tips for making the most of live performances for children:

Choose wisely. Start with shows that have familiar storylines or characters and will appeal to your child’s age and interests. Check local and regional listings, talk with family and friends and read reviews in the paper or online.

Determine details. Call and ask for details regarding the performance. Is it family-oriented?

Age-appropriate? Are there frightening scenes?

Is there spectacle — colorful costumes and sets, slapstick comedy and special effects? Audience participation? Loud noises that might frighten your child?

Lowdown on logistics. Find out about program length and if there is a break for intermission. Can your child stay focused that long? Choose seats that will keep your child’s attention directed on the stage. Sitting front and center or in the first rows of the balcony may be best. If you think you may have to slip out during the performance, opt for seats near the aisle for a quick exit. Consider bringing a booster seat so your child gets a good view.

Primer on preparations. Explain the plot and characters to your child so he knows what to expect.

If the performance parallels a book or movie or has familiar music, experience that before attending.

Make-Believe

From local acting and children’s theater companies to national touring productions, Miami-Dade stages are alive with characters already familiar to children in hopes of sparking a romance with the theater. For instance, this upcoming season will spotlight beloved characters in productions such as Shrek the Musical, Beauty and the Beast and The Lion King.

Other shows aim to expose children to new and exciting experiences.

“For example,” Maulding says, “we’ve done some original pieces that were bilingual to reach out to our Miami-Dade audience. We’ve done some pieces like a mini-Starlight Express, with the actors on rollerblades and BMX bikes. So it was a visual spectacle but underneath that there were some really important messages.

‘Get ’em in the door,’ but underneath it all are some very smart ways to reach the kids to give them some things to think about… and hopefully some solutions.”

Actors’ Playhouse also stages shows that go easier on the eyes and ears of children with special needs. For those with sensory processing and autism spectrum disorders, “All Kids Included” Sensory-Friendly Performances are special adaptations of their children’s shows that provide accommodations like modifications to sound and lighting levels, noise-canceling headsets and a quiet room.

While Actors’ Playhouse presents professional theater for children performed primarily by adults, mostly young thespians own the spotlight at two other children’s theater mainstays: Area Stage Company and Miami Children’s Theater, both in Coral Gables.

Each presents shows this season that appeal both to younger children, like the former’s The Lion King Experience!, and to older kids, such as the latter’s Chicago (High School Edition). continued on page 16

Also discuss theatre etiquette. Explain that he will have to walk, rather than run, to and from his seat and use indoor voices. Depending upon the performance, he may need to hold questions until intermission or whisper if he has something important to say.

Day-of details. Make sure your child is well-fed and rested before leaving home. Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early so you can secure parking, find your seats and take your child to the restroom.

Grand finale. After the show ask questions and share impressions regarding the performance.

What was his favorite part or character? Was there a character he didn’t like? Why? What did he think of the sets, costumes and special effects?

Does he remember the instruments or concepts taught during musical performances? At home have your child draw a picture of his favorite scene or character. If you did not rent the parallel movie or read the book, do so now. Was the storyline presented differently in this format? If he enjoys pretend play, have him act out his favorite part.

continued from page 13

A Christmas Carol at Actors’ Playhouse

MIAMI-DADE’S Family-Friendly Shows

Here is a sampling of shows on the bills at theaters throughout the county this season. Tickets to most are usually available even at the last minute. But this may be the ideal time to get the best selection and seats, as many local venues launch family series or mount productions as the fall arts season heats up.

Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre, 280 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables. 305-444-9293, www.actorsplayhouse.org • Beauty and the Beast, Oct. 13-Nov. 10 • A Christmas Carol - The Musical, Dec. 3-23 • Cinderella, Feb. 7-March 21 • Schoolhouse Rock LIVE!, April 25-May 23 (Shows also feature “All Kids Included” Sensory-Friendly Performances.)

Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. 305-949-6722, www.arshtcenter.org • ¿Qué Pasa, U.S.A.? Today, Sept. 28-29 • School of Rock - The Musical, April 9-14 • The Lion King, May 8-26

Area Stage Company, 1560 S. Dixie Hwy., Coral Gables.

305-666-2078, www.areastagecompany.com • Shrek the Musical, Sept. 7-23 • Guys and Dolls JR, Oct. 12-21 • Disney’s The Lion King Experience!, Nov. 9-18 • Mary Poppins, Dec. 7-16 Beauty and the Beast at Actors’ Playhouse

Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, 3385 NE 188 St., Aventura. 305-466-8002, www.aventuracenter.org

• The Magic School Bus, Oct. 19 • Giggle, Giggle, Quack, Oct. 20 • You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown The Broadway Musical, March 14-17

Fantasy Theatre Factory, Sandrell Rivers Theater, Audrey M. Edmonson Transit Village, 6101 NW Seventh Ave., Miami. 305-284-8872, www.ftfshows.com • Little Monster Tales, October • The Adventures of the Three Mess-keteers, November to January, 2019 Also year-round shows such as Fantasy Stew, Reading Is Magic, and Trash Monster.

Miami Childrens Theater, 11155 SW 112 Ave., Miami, and 405 University Road, Coral Gables. 305-274-3595, www.miamichildrenstheater.biz • Once Upon a Mattress • Chicago (High School Edition) • Fiddler on the Roof (All dates to be announced.)

South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center, 10950 SW 211 St., Cutler Bay. 786-573-5300 or www.smdcac.org • Turning 15: On The Road To Freedom, Oct. 6

Make-Believe

continued from page 14

The county’s grand venue, the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Miami, is home to family friendly shows with the production pizazz of national touring companies. And Sept. 8 is the day to be first in line to buy individual tickets to the majority of this season’s shows — minus the handling fees — as the center holds its ARTSLAUNCH2018.

Miami’s biggest annual celebration and kickoff of the arts season, the free special theatrical event for families features mini-performances, a community arts village of more than 100 arts and cultural organizations, and the chance to intimately explore the center’s performance space. Also several times a year, the center presents its free Family Fest series, with enchanting stage performances, hands-on activities, classes and workshops.

Aventura Arts & Cultural Center’s Smart Stage Matinee and Family Fun series regularly stage shows for young theater-goers, while Fantasy Theatre Factory takes a more mobile approach to showtime. As a state touring company, it travels to over 10 Florida counties each season presenting versatile performances to family audiences and schools — in addition to productions and workshops at its home stage at Sandrell Rivers Theater in Miami. It also produces its own Theatre Field-Trip Program throughout South Florida.

PUTTING THE SPOTLIGHT ON YOUNG THESPIANS As well as staging productions that will put kids in their seats, several theater companies offer plenty of opportunities designed to get them out of those seats and up onstage themselves.

Training in the theatrical arts goes hand-in-hand with amateur productions at Miami Children’s Theater, which offers classes, camps and productions that emphasize onstage experience. In addition to housing a professional theatre company, Area Stage has a professional-level conservatory with classes, workshops and performance opportunities for young, aspiring performers. It also offers the Inclusion Theatre Project, a theatre program for people with special needs.

Actor’s Playhouse, which offers a year-round conservatory for children starting at age 5, also hosts two events each year for young theater-goers and theater-hopefuls: the hands-on Kids Fest in February, and a free countywide talent competition, Young Talent Big Dreams. in March and April.

The contest gives performers from ages 8 to 17 a shot at cash prizes, performance opportunities and master classes.

“So we’re bringing the kids in and exciting them not only about watching,” Maulding says. “But then they’re saying, ‘Mom, Dad, I would like to do that.’ ”

Where the Stories are the Stars!

4-SHOW SUBSCRIPTIONS AVAILABLE SAME SEAT—EVERY PERFORMANCE

Presented by

Giggle, Giggle, Quack Saturday, October 20

Your Alien

Sunday, January 27

The Very Hungry Caterpillar & Other Eric Carle Favorites Sunday, February 24

Stuart Little

Sunday, April 14 All performances are at 11am and 1pm Performances underwritten in part by Miami Salon Group, Inc.

Tickets include complimentary pre-show activities and a sweet treat provided by Hoffman’s Chocolates!

AventuraCenter.org • Group Sales: 954.660.6307 To place your 4-show order by phone, please call 954.468.3280 16

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After-School

ACTIVITIES & ENRICHMENT

GUIDE

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

10

}

STEPS

to

HEALTHY

COMPETITION

BY DENISE YEARIAN

1

18

WATCH FOR SIGNS While it is normal to show disappointment in a bad play

2

Competition can sharpen kids’ skills and drive them to achieve their personal best.

But when undue emphasis is placed on winning and excelling, it can be detrimental to a child and his relationship with others. As a result the child may become reluctant to attend lessons, programs or games and may develop an unhealthy view of competition.

As a parent, you can help your child’s experience to be positive and fun, as well as teach valuable life skills.

Here are 10 ways to make it happen.

TALK THROUGH FRUSTRATIONS If your child is upset about losing a competition, give him time to cool down

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EMPHASIZE FUN When fun is the main emphasis, it is better for children’s

or lost game, if a child’s view of

before talking things over. Then find

self-image and feelings of

competition is unhealthy, parents

out why he was so upset. Reframe the

self-worth. It is better for their

may need to intervene and

situation: “What were the good things

performance, too. Studies show

communicate what is and is not

that happened on the field today?”

kids actually persist in activities

acceptable behavior. Signs may

“You didn’t win, but you did do good

much longer if they participate

include intense anger or crying,

things — can you name a few?” Let

because they enjoy it, rather

an abundance of negative self-talk,

him talk it out. Highlight his strengths

than trying to obtain a trophy

anxiety about competing, cheating,

and share how losing is an important

or medal.

withdrawal from friends and

part of playing too, and that we learn

other activities, unsportsmanlike

things when we lose just like when we

conduct, and/or using

win. Remind him that competitions are

performance-enhancing drugs.

meant to be fun, and failure isn’t fatal.

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4

CONSIDER THE COACH Attend and observe your child’s programs to make sure the coach or instructor is being fair and promoting fun, participation and cooperation over competition and winning. If he isn’t, talk with him.

Remind him of the children’s ages and diplomatically tell him you think he is focusing too much on competition. Sometimes people just need to have it pointed out to them. If things don’t change, talk with other parents and see if there is a supervising organization you can speak with. Go up in the ranks if you need to.

5

AVOID COMPARISONS Encourage your child to always do his best and compete against his own best performance, not against others. Be careful with personal comparisons, too. Negative comparisons make a child feel inferior.

Positive ones build one child up while putting others down.

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COMPLIMENT PUBLICLY; CRITICIZE PRIVATELY Give fair and accurate feedback. If, during a competition, your child performs poorly, be honest but offer feedback in a positive way. Rather than say, “You did terribly today,” say, “You can do better next time.”

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SET GOALS Encourage your child to set attainable goals by breaking down larger goals into smaller ones so he can feel a sense of accomplishment along the way. Have him monitor and chart progress then celebrate little successes along the way. Just make sure these goals are child-driven, not adult-driven.

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PRAISE EFFORTS Emphasize fun, cooperation and teamwork over competition and final outcome. If his team loses, focus on the positive and remind

After Care BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS 305-446-9910 www.bgcmia.org Centers: • 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

him he needs to be a good loser as well as a good winner.

Encourage him to congratulate the winning team.

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LOOK AT YOURSELF Analyze your own feeling about your child’s participation in the activity.

Children take cues from their parents in how they view competition.

If it is a sports program, be sure you don’t emphasize winning over sportsmanship, physical development, skill and fun. Also watch your expressions and body language, as these can send powerful messages.

Be realistic. Keep in mind the child’s age and developmental level.

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BE A CHEERLEADER Provide support and encouragement and let your children know you love them no matter how they perform.

YMCA OF SOUTH FLORIDA Association Office 305-357-4000 www.ymcasouthflorida.org Y Membership Family Centers: • Downtown Miami YMCA, 200 S. Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 305-779-9622 • 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 continued on page 20

Art Classes BASS MUSEUM OF ART 2100 Collins Ave., Miami Beach 305-673-7530 www.thebass.org Kids can learn all about art through hands-on programs that include Bass Babies, Art for Kids, and Teen Art Class.

INSTITUTE OF CONTEMPORARY ART MIAMI 61 NE 41 St., Miami 305-901-5272 www.icamiami.org The Young Artists Initiative (YAI) connects high school artists to the museum’s collection and the local arts community through an immersive two-year program.

Tours, field trips and a free monthly Family Day are available for kids of all ages to tap into their artistic side.

PAMM STUDIO PROGRAMS 1103 Biscayne Blvd., Miami 305-375-3000 www.pamm.org Pérez Art Museum Miami offers a range of studio programs that explore contemporary art and the creative process to children, teens and adults.

THE YOUNG AT ART INSTITUTE 751 SW 121 Ave., Davie 954-424-0085 www.youngatartmuseum.org The Young At Art Institute is a 7,500 sq. ft. wing of Young At Art Museum featuring the finest studios for ceramics, cartooning, digital art, darkroom photography, drawing and painting, mixed media, print making and more.

Adult studio classes include pottery, among others. Age-appropriate art-making experiences for children, teens and adults are interwoven with art appreciation, history, culture and critique.

Dance & Performing Arts ACTORS’ PLAYHOUSE AT THE MIRACLE THEATRE 280 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables 305-444-9293 www.actorsplayhouse.org Acting classes for kids of all ages include Let’s Make Believe, Song and Dance, Musical Theater, Just Act and more.

AREA STAGE COMPANY 1560 S. Dixie Hwy., Coral Gables 305-666-2078 www.areastagecompany.com Provides group classes, private lessons, seasonal programs and more to aspiring artists.

FANTASY THEATRE FACTORY at the Sandrell Rivers Theater 6103 NW Seventh Ave., Miami 305-284-8800 www.ftfshows.com Creative classes and workshops in theater, circus, movement, reading and cultural arts for ages 3 and up.

HIP HOP KIDZ 305-233-3555 www.hiphopkidz.co With cool moves and the best beats, this program for boys and girls ages 5-19 fosters the skills of hip hop dancing, self-expression, confidence and teamwork. Classes available in 13 locations throughout the tri-county area.

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MIAMI CHILDRENS THEATER 11155 SW 112 Ave., Miami 305-274-3595 www.miamichildrenstheater.biz Young thespians learn all aspects of theater including acting, production and choreography.

MIAMI CITY BALLET SCHOOL 2200 Liberty Ave., Miami Beach 305-929-7007 www.miamicityballet.org Year-round programs provide rigorous, comprehensive training to young dancers all the way from their first steps to the elite pre-professional track.

Enrichment MIAMI CHILDREN’S MUSEUM 980 MacArthur Causeway, Miami 305-373-5437 www.miamichildrensmuseum.org Interactive after-school activities include cooking, science (STEAM), computer literacy and zumba classes for ages 3-5 and 5-10.

Fitness & Sports BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS See After Care for locations KITE BOARDING www.miamidade.gov/parks Skim the sandy white beaches at Matheson Hammock Park in Miami and Crandon Park in Key Biscayne. Kite Boarding rentals and lessons are available at both locations.

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION 305-755-7800 www.miamidade.gov/parks The third largest county park system in the United States, Miami-Dade County touts 270 parks and 13,573 acres of land. There is something for everyone with activities that include nature walks, swimming, skating, roller hockey, kayaking, tennis and more.

MOUNTAIN BIKING Oleta River State Park 3400 NE 163 St., North Miami Beach www.floridastateparks.org Beginners can ride over four miles of novice trails and three miles of paved trails. For advanced riders, the park has more than ten miles of challenging, intermediate mountain bike trails.

WAKE BOARDING Amelia Earhart Park 401 E. 65 St., Hialeah 305-685-8389 www.miamidade.gov/parks Wake boarding, waterskiing, knee boarding and barefoot lessons are taught by champion coaches.

YMCA OF SOUTH FLORIDA See After Care for locations

Jewish Community Centers ALPER JCC MIAMI 11155 SW 112 Ave., Miami 305-271-9000 www.alperjcc.org MIAMI BEACH JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER 4221 Pine Tree Dr., Miami Beach 305-534-3206 www.mbjcc.org

Music GREATER MIAMI YOUTH SYMPHONY 5275 Sunset Dr., Miami 305-667-4069 www.gmys.org Created in 1958, GMYS has grown into an independent five-level orchestra program dedicated to training young musicians ages 5-18.

MIAMI CHILDREN’S CHORUS 1533 Sunset Dr., Coral Gables 305-662-7494 www.miamichildrenschorus.org Children ages 8-18 can explore the joy of singing and performance with choral music as the medium. Children participate, by audition, in one of three levels of ensemble.

MIAMI CONSERVATORY OF MUSIC 2911 Grand Ave., Miami 305-422-2283 www.miamiconservatoryofmusic.com Community music school provides musical instruction and fosters the talents of those ages 5 and up.

SOUTH FLORIDA YOUTH SYMPHONY 12645 SW 114 Ave., Miami 305-238-2729 www.sfys.net Rehearsing on the Miami Dade College Campus, SFYS strives to foster the musical development of those ages 4-21. continued on page 22

MICHAEL-ANN RUSSELL JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER 18900 NE 25 Ave., North Miami Beach 305-932-4200 www.marjcc.org

September2018 | M I A M I - D A D E F A M I LY L I F E

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Parks & Recreation

EL PORTAL 305-795-7880 www.elportalvillage.com

MEDLEY 305-887-0140 www.townofmedley.com

NORTH MIAMI 305-895-9840 www.northmiamifl.gov

AVENTURA 305-466-8008 www.cityofaventura.com

FLORIDA CITY 305-247-8221 www.floridacityfl.gov

MIAMI 305-416-1300 www.miamigov.com

NORTH MIAMI BEACH 305-948-2957 www.citynmb.com

BAL HARBOUR 305-866-4633 www.balharbourflorida.com

GOLDEN BEACH 305-932-0744 www.goldenbeach.us

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

OPA-LOCKA 305-953-2875 www.opalockafl.gov

BAY HARBOR ISLANDS 786-646-9970 www.bayharborislands-fl.gov

HIALEAH 305-687-2650 www.hialeahfl.gov

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

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

BISCAYNE PARK 305-893-3711 www.biscayneparkfl.gov

HIALEAH GARDENS 305-558-2331 www.cityofhialeahgardens.com

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

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

CORAL GABLES 305-460-5600 www.coralgables.com

HOMESTEAD 305-224-4570 www.cityofhomestead.com

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

SOUTH MIAMI 305-668-3876 www.southmiamifl.gov

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

INDIAN CREEK 305-865-4121 www.indiancreekvillage.org

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

SUNNY ISLES BEACH 305-792-1706 www.sibfl.net

DORAL 305-593-6600 www.cityofdoral.com

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

NORTH BAY VILLAGE 305-756-7171 www.nbvillage.com

SURFSIDE 305-866-3635 www.townofsurfsidefl.gov

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SWEETWATER 305-551-4774 www.cityofsweetwater.fl.gov VIRGINIA GARDENS 305-871-6104 www.virginiagardens-fl.gov WEST MIAMI 305-261-5566 www.cityofwestmiamifl.com

Preschool Activities FAMILIES FIRST 305-243-8425 Families First, funded by The Children’s Trust, offers a free Baby & Me group for parents and their babies birth to six months. The program also features Parent Groups.

Scouting BOY SCOUTS 305-364-0020 www.sfcbsa.org Boy Scouts has different age groups, starting with Cub Scouts for ages 7-10.

Students may participate through high school and earn the coveted Eagle Award. Participants learn practical skills and get outdoor experiences as they are guided to make ethical choices.

GIRL SCOUTS 305-253-4841 www.girlscoutsfl.org Girl Scouts of Tropical Florida serves girls ages 5-18 in Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties. The organization’s goal is to build strong, smart and self-reliant young women who are confident in their place in the world.

MIAMI-DADE PARKS AND RECREATION Special Populations Section www.miamidade.gov/parks SPECIAL OLYMPICS 305-406-9467 www.specialolympicsflorida.org/miami-dade Oversees training and competition for developmentally disabled children 8 years and up.

WHISPERING MANES 6105 SW 125 Ave., Miami 305-596-4204 www.whisperingmanes.org Therapeutic riding center for people with physical, cognitive and emotional disabilities.

Tutoring FULL POTENTIAL LEARNING ACADEMY 7950 NW 155 St., Miami Lakes 305-826-1896 www.fullpotentialtutor.com Tutoring center offers reading, math, science and test preparation programs.

Students are empowered to aspire to a bright future by building academic and life skills.

Volunteering HANDS ON MIAMI 305-504-4510 www.handsonmiami.org Volunteer opportunities for families, teens and adults.

Special Needs BEST BUDDIES 305-374-2233 www.bestbuddies.org Pairs people with intellectual disabilities in one-to-one friendships with middle and high school students.

MIAMI LIGHTHOUSE FOR THE BLIND 601 SW Eighth Ave., Miami 305-856-2288 www.miamilighthouse.org Programs for the visually impaired.

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FAMILY man

Home Theater Experience IT’S ALWAYS SHOWTIME FOR A STAGE-STRUCK SON

BY GREGORY KEER

N

ot too long ago, my 11-year-old tracked me down in my fortress of solitude, the bathroom, and launched into “Suddenly Seymour,” his audition tune for the performing arts magnet school he desperately wanted to attend.

By the time he hit his final note, I had long forgotten where I was or what I had intended to do there. I just applauded.

“That was the best I’ve ever heard you sing,” I told Jacob.

Whether he’s standing on bathroom tile or on auditorium floorboards, my son loves the stage. It started early, when we took a 3-year-old Jacob to see his older brother in a theater-camp production of The Sound of Music. We had to hold back the nascent thespian from leaping to join “Do-Re-Mi.” Although his big brother grew more self-conscious about performing, Jacob’s theatrical bug hasn’t stopped buzzing.

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Sometimes, all that buzzing gets on our nerves. We frequently have been torn between encouraging his creative, outgoing nature and protecting our senses from his often disastrous practicing. There were countless nights when he belted a medley of Top 40 hits all day long, from every room in the house — and mostly off-key. He didn’t know he was out of tune, nor did he care.

He also had the habit of trying to force his vibrato to sound like Ed Sheeran — only he isn’t Ed Sheeran.

There were the mornings we awakened thinking clowns were ransacking our home when it was just Jacob leaping around his room, rehearsing hip-hop moves he learned in his after-school program. On countless occasions, we sat with frozen smiles while we watched him do modern-dance versions of movies like Iron Man 2.

There were all the elementary-school plays, the ones Jacob made us practice with him for weeks, even when he only had one line. Worse yet, given Jacob’s perfectionist streak, we had to endure his criticism of how we delivered our parts: “Daddy, I really think Zeus would sound much bolder than you’re saying it.” You know there’s something wrong when your

kid makes you feel like you’ll never work in show business again.

As anxious as Jacob’s relentless practicing has made us, nothing compares to how we felt every time he tried out for a part he didn’t get, or when he was teased by peers who found his theatricality not macho enough. Each time this happened, Jacob would come home angry or in tears, and we’d boost his ego for being brave enough to take risks. Yet it was mostly his own sense of resolve that motivated him to try all over again.

In his last year of elementary school, all of Jacob’s practice seemed to pay off. After three years in the back of the chorus, he improved his vocal pitch and moved to the front. After years of musical instrument obscurity, he learned the ukulele and became a soloist at his graduation.

And after endless sessions rehearsing dance moves, song stylings and acting chops, Jacob auditioned last year for a performing arts school with so few available spots and so many dreamers vying for them. Weeks later, the answer arrived with the word “Congratulations” on it.

With the new school program well under way, we are still figuring out how to support our developing performer. Who knows if this opportunity to learn in an arts program will lead to Jacob’s success on Broadway or in Hollywood? What I do know is that, as much as my son has learned to follow a passion, there’s more to life than any stage. More important than a lead part is what Jacob has learned about working hard, facing his fears, enjoying triumphs and weathering failure. He also has learned to balance his theatrical pursuits with friends, family and soccer, a game he still loves. These lessons will serve him as he makes the transition from the smaller elementary school stakes to the bigger ones in middle school and beyond.

Whether or not he continues in the theater, I hope Jacob always has something in his life that inspires the kind of passion, dedication and drive he has developed through his involvement in the arts. I am very proud of my boy. So proud, in fact, that I’ll even let him interrupt my privacy any time he wants to break out into song.

Gregory Keer is an award-winning syndicated columnist, teacher and guest expert in national media. He is also a patron of the arts — his son’s, that is.

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FAMILY health

Silence Is Golden

TO BOOST YOUR CHILD’S WELL-BEING, MAKE TIME FOR QUIET TIME

BY SANDI SCHWARTZ A visit to a silent retreat is on my bucket list. It seems like the ultimate way to reach a mindful, relaxed and introspective state.

Science indicates that silence can be beneficial to us in so many ways, as it impacts our physical, mental and emotional health. Given our increasingly loud lives with technology constantly buzzing in our ears, how can we give our children the gift of silence to make them happier and healthier?

Noise pollution is considered a serious concern throughout the world. The World Health Organization ranks it as the secondmost critical environmental challenge after air pollution because excessive noise can seriously harm human health and interfere with people’s daily activities. It can disturb sleep, cause cardiovascular and other physiological effects, reduce

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performance and lead to changes in social behavior. As the world gets louder, we may be able to cope a little bit; however, our evolutionary biology has not kept up with rapid technological innovations.

Noise affects our bodies in the following ways: Physiological: Sudden jarring noises cause the body to produce cortisol, the fight-or-flight hormone that causes us to feel stressed and anxious. Some studies show how chronic exposure to levels of sound greater than 50 to 55 decibels can boost these stress hormones and increase blood pressure, hypertension and heart rate.

Psychological: Sounds can change our mood. Constant or loud noises can shift our mood from happy and calm to stressed and irritated. When we are surrounded by these intrusive noises all the time, the impact can add up and crush our spirits.

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Cognitive: The brain has a huge storage space, but the amount of noise that it can process is relatively limited. Being bombarded by noise can impact our ability to focus and think clearly. Research shows that children studying in schools under flight paths have reading skills several months behind their peers in quieter places, simply because they are unable to hear well.

Behavior: Loud noises can lead to changes in how we act. We tend to move away from sounds that we don’t like or that feel uncomfortable to us. In a recent experiment at a shopping center, speakers playing loud pop music were set up at one end of a store while calm, ambient music was played at the other end. The results showed that many shoppers physically moved away from the pop music speakers.

Sound, therefore, can impact decisions that we make in our lives. What is

most alarming is that researchers have noticed that children have become so used to constant noise that they are actually uncomfortable without it. Noise, essentially, has become a crutch for our children. This has led to habits like coming home and immediately turning on the television or iPad. The best remedy for all of this noise is very simple: silence. Being silent may sound like an odd concept, but more research continues to come out highlighting the importance of quiet time for us and our children.

Silence has a calming effect. It settles the many emotions that are activated by talking and listening. As our mental and emotional lives calm down in this quiet space, our bodies can relax. In a group of studies on silence for the magazine Nautilus, it was noted how participants were most relaxed during the moments of silence between pieces of relaxing music as opposed to during the music itself.

We need silence to bring us back to the present moment, helping us to calm down and not worry about what happened in the past or what may happen in the future.

Silence is a wonderful way for us to take a step back, find peace and recharge.

Silence also helps us more effectively connect to the world around us.

Essentially, all of our senses are heightened when we are silent. We may notice sounds that we never did before, and view our surroundings with a fresh perspective.

For example, we may notice how loud the traffic is from our backyard or how beautiful the birds are singing as we wake up in the morning.

Being able to hear more easily allows us to have greater clarity and helps us make better decisions, especially ones that we’ve been struggling with. Silence reduces the mental chatter that distracts us from being able to think clearly and to truly be in touch with our own thoughts and feelings.

Silence may also be good for our brain.

In 2013, biologist Imke Kirst conducted an experiment in which she exposed four groups of adult mice to either various sounds or to silence to find out if it affected them. She discovered that the mice kept in silence were the only group that developed new brain cells. These cells were in the part of the brain connected to memory, emotion and learning. Although these results have not yet been duplicated in humans, this study offers some insight into how our brain may change due to silence.

Lisa Nalven Photography

10 WAYS TO Shhh The best way to combat the excessive noise that our children are exposed to daily is to teach them how to create a quieter environment around them. Here are 10 ways that you can bring more silence into your children’s lives.

1. Be a positive role model to your children. This means keeping your home free of excessive noise and showing your kids that you take time out of your busy day for quiet moments, such as meditation.

2. Turn the television off when nobody is watching it. Do not use it as a background noise, especially when you are eating as a family or when your children are doing homework.

3. Work on positive behavior shifts, which include limiting your child’s time on television, computers and devices.

4. Offer ear plugs or noise-reducing headphones to your children if they’re bothered by noise or just need to tune-out sounds when they’re having quiet time.

5. Set aside quiet meditation time for your children, such as right after school, to provide a break from their busy day before they jump into homework or extracurricular activities.

6. Make an effort to drive your children to and from school without the radio blaring.

This allows everyone to have a moment with their thoughts before and after a hectic day.

7. Go for a family nature walk to quietly enjoy the beauty around you. Challenge your children to listen to the natural sounds around them, such as the rustling of leaves and birds chirping.

8. When you go for a long drive in the car, spend some of that time in complete silence. This will prompt your children to look out the window and soak in the world passing by.

9. Create a quiet zone in your home where your children can go to when they need some silence. This can be a floor pillow in the corner of their playroom or bedroom where there are some books and stuffed animals to comfort them as they recharge.

10. Teach your children stillness techniques like yoga, tai chi, chi gong and breathing exercises.

lisanalvenphotography.com

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SeptemberEvents 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.

IT’S SHOWTIME! Siempre Flamenco FRIDAY-SUNDAY, AUGUST 31-SEPTEMBER 2

Spectacular production featuring three acclaimed Spanish singers and worldrenowned dancer José Barrios. Friday 8pm, Saturday 3pm & 8pm, Sunday 4pm. ADRIENNE ARSHT CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 786-468-2000 www.arshtcenter.org

Great Opera Moments SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8

Presented by The Opera Atelier, this staged production features a variety of operatic selections and ensembles by both young and seasoned artists. 2-3pm, MAIN LIBRARY, 101 W. Flagler St., Miami, 305-679-2665 www.mdpls.org

ArtsLaunch 2018

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES Farmer’s Market

Family Kayak Adventure

Food goes from farm to table every Sunday at the Palmetto Bay Farmer’s Market where local farmers, gardeners and artisans display and sell their goods.

8:30am-3pm, CORAL REEF PARK, 7895 SW 152 St., Palmetto Bay, www.palmettobay-fl.gov

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

SUNDAYS

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 22

Art in the Park

Summer Butterfly Walk SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 22

SUNDAYS, SEPTEMBER 2, 16 & 30

Children can release their inner Picasso by creating arts and crafts under the palms using a variety of mediums and materials. Pre-registration required. Free.

10am-1pm, MIAMI BEACH BOTANICAL GARDEN, 2000 Convention Center Dr., Miami Beach www.mbgarden.org

Wynwood Art Walk

Explore the grounds of Deering Estate while you search for Ruddy Daggerwing, Dina Yellow and Atala butterflies. Free with paid admission of $12/adult, $7/child. 11am-noon, DEERING ESTATE, 16701 SW 72 Ave., Miami, 305-235-1668 www.deeringestate.org

Beach Clean-Up

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 22

An iconic event featuring a collection of murals, vendors, food trucks and music. All ages. Begins at noon and continues throughout the evening.

WYNWOOD ART WALK, Wynwood, www.wynwoodartwalk.info

Help Miami Seaquarium celebrate its 63rd anniversary by assisting with a beach clean up at Historic Virginia Key Beach Park. Each participant will receive a pass for free admission to Miami Seaquarium. 8-10am, HISTORIC VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK, 4020 Virginia Beach Dr., Miami, www.miamiseaquarium.com

Family Fun Fishing Tournament

Movie in the Park

Get outdoors with the family while fishing on the pier at this friendly fishing competition. $5 with SIB resident card, $10 without. Rods are available for rent with early registration. 9am-noon, NEWPORT FISHING PIER, 16501 Collins Ave., Sunny Isles Beach, www.sibfl.net/fishing

Bring your blankets and chairs for an outdoor screening of Meet the Fockers (PG-13) along Biscayne Bay. Gates open at 8pm, movie begins at 8:30pm. THE BARNACLE HISTORICAL STATE PARK, 3485 Main Highway, Coconut Grove, www.coconutgrove.com

Movies on the Lawn

Food Truck Fridays

Bring a blanket and lawn chair for an outdoor movie.

Admission and popcorn are free. Refreshments available for purchase. 7:30pm, GRIFFING PARK, 12220 Griffing Blvd., North Miami, 305-895-9840 www.northmiamifl.gov

Jump start your weekend with delicious dishes from a variety of food trucks, live entertainment, music and fun for the whole family. 5:30-9pm, ROLLING OAKS PARK, 18701 NW 17 Ave., Miami Gardens, 305-914-9070 www.miamigardens-fl.gov

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 21

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28

| miamidadefamilylife.com

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8

Adrienne Arsht Center kicks off the start of its art season with an all-day community event with mini-performances, live music, family activities, and a community arts village with more than 100 arts and cultural organizations. Free. ADRIENNE ARSHT CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS,

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

Disney on Ice

THURSDAYS-SUNDAYS SEPTEMBER 13-16 & 27-30

Join Mickey Mouse, Captain Hook, Tinker Bell, Moana and other Disney friends in this world-class skating and high-flying acrobatic adventure.

• Sept. 13-16, BB&T CENTER, One Panther Parkway, Sunrise, www.thebbtcenter.com • Sept. 27-30, AMERICANAIRLINES ARENA, 601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, www.aaarena.com

Hispanic-American Heritage Concert SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 22

Bring the family for a cultural concert and experience. Free. 7-9pm, GATEWAY PARK, 151 Sunny Isles Blvd., Sunny Isles, www.sibfl.net

Forward Motion FRIDAY-SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28-29

This International Festival of Physically Integrated Dance showcases the talents of performers with and without disabilities. Featured dance companies can be found online. 8pm, MIAMI-DADE COUNTY AUDITORIUM, 2901 W. Flagler St., Miami, 305-547-5414 www.miamidadecountyauditorium.org

FAIRS, FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS First Fridays: Endless Summer Beach Gathering

HistoryMiami Free Family Fun Day

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7

The summer vibe is still going strong on the beach behind the Community Center where you’ll find sandcastle building workshops, complimentary floats and paddleboards and more. Free.

4-7pm, 93RD STREET BEACH, Surfside, www.townofsurfsidefl.gov

Art Days

FRIDAY-SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 7-9

Head to the DOWNTOWN MIAMI AREA for three days of special programs and free events featuring exhibits, performances, children’s programming, walking tours and more. The free trolley and Metromover connects to all events. Activities begin at 10am and continue throughout the evening at a variety of locations. 305-579-6675 www.miamidda.com

Children’s Trust Family Expo SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8

Bring the family for a day filled with activities that include sports, arts and crafts, performances, face painting and more. 10am-5pm, TAMIAMI FAIR & EXPO, Coral Way and 112 Avenue, Miami, www.thechildrenstrust.org

Junior Orange Bowl Festival Kickoff Celebration THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 20

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8

Explore the museum with the family while learning about the history and culture of Miami through interactive activities. Free. 10am-5pm, HISTORYMIAMI MUSEUM, 101 W. Flagler St., Miami, 305-375-1492 www.historymiami.org

Celebrate the kick off of the 70th year of the Junior Orange Bowl tradition aimed to elevate and empower youth in the community and worldwide. $15. 6-8pm,

Kandou Con

Hispanic-American Heritage Art & Culture Showcase

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 9

A Comic Con event with celebrity guests, comic book creators, voice actors, costume and cosplay contests, anime, workshops, video gaming and more. 11am-5pm, NORTH MIAMI BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY, 1601 NE 164 St., North Miami Beach, 305-948-2970 www.nmblib.com

NEWMAN ALUMNI CENTER AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI, 6200 San Amaro Dr., Coral Gables,

305-662-1210 www.juniororangebowl.org

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 23

Experience a fun-filled day of art and culture for the family. Free. 5-8pm, HERITAGE PARK, 19200 Collins Ave., Sunny Isles, 305-792-1706 www.sibfl.net

American Indian Day SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29

Join the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians for a fun-filled day of Native American arts, crafts and activities, carnival rides, airboat rides, water slides, alligator wrestling shows, performances and more. Admission is free; a donation of an unwrapped gift for Toys for Tots is requested. 10am-5pm, MICCOSUKEE RESORT & GAMING, 500 SW 177 Ave., Miami, 305-894-2375 www.miccosukee.com

Deering Discovery Day SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

Enjoy a day of family fun with hands-on science activities, exploration and more.

Reduced admission of $1/ages 4 and up.

DEERING ESTATE, 16701 SW 72 Ave., Miami, 305-235-1668 www.deeringestate.org

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES Discovering Design

Books and Cookies

Kids can create something that’s never existed before by using a discovery kit provided during this free family day.

Noon-3pm, THE WOLFSONIAN - FIU, 1001 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, 305-531-1001 www.wolfsonian.org

Read, share stories, swap books, and learn all about being a Girl Scout from the Girl Scouts of Tropical Florida.

Grades K-12. 10am-1pm, SOUTH SHORE BRANCH LIBRARY, 131 Alton Rd., Miami Beach, 305-535-4223 www.mdpls.org

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 1

Gold Coast Free First Saturday

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 1

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

Grandparents Day Craft FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7

Kids can make a unique gift from the heart to give to a grandparent or other loved one. Materials provided.

4-4:45pm, OPA-LOCKA BRANCH LIBRARY, 780 Fisherman St., Opa-Locka, 305-688-1134 www.mdpls.org

Paws to Read

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8

Children can improve literacy skills and build confidence while reading to a therapy dog. All ages. 11am-noon, MIAMI LAKES BRANCH LIBRARY,

6699 Windmill Gate Rd., Miami Lakes, 305-822-6520 www.mdpls.org

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8

Kitchen Botany

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 9

Dissect, taste test, and explore all the different plant parts that we eat each day during this hands-on family program. $18/adult, $6/child 6-12, free/5 and under. 11am-1pm, VIZCAYA MUSEUM & GARDENS,

3251 S. Miami Ave., Miami, 305-250-9133 www.vizcaya.org

Expressive Art for Children

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11

Children can tap into their creative side while making a craft with the assistance of artist Debie Lee. Ages 5-12. 4-4:45pm, PINECREST BRANCH LIBRARY, 5835 SW 111 St., Pinecrest, 305-668-4571 www.mdpls.org

Drumming for Everyone SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

This rhythmic journey allows kids to play drums and percussion instruments from around the world. Ages 5 and up. 11am-noon, CORAL GABLES BRANCH LIBRARY, 3443 Segovia St.,

Coral Gables, 305-442-8706 www.mdpls.org

Library LEGO Club SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

Let your imagination run wild as you build and create with LEGO blocks.

All ages. 11am-noon, MIAMI LAKES BRANCH LIBRARY, 6699 Windmill Gate Rd., Miami Lakes, 305-822-6520 www.mdpls.org

Sharks are Friends

with twilight activities that include special programming, a planetarium show and more. $80/person. 6pm, FROST MUSEUM OF SCIENCE,

1101 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 305-434-9600 www.frostscience.org

Family Day

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 30

Families can enjoy free museum admission throughout the day and special hands-on activities including a Design Challenge from 2-4pm.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19

THE BASS MUSEUM OF ART,

Parents and their little ones explore and learn about unique animals through animal interactions, presentations and arts and crafts at this mommy and me program.

Ages 2-5. $10/adult, $5/child.

10am & 1pm, MIAMI SEAQUARIUM, 4400 Rickenbacker Causeway, Miami, 305-361-5705 www.miamiseaquarium.com

2100 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305-673-7530 www.thebass.org

Storytime at PAMM SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 22

Kids ages 3-5 with a caregiver can build on foundations of literacy with a gallery experience, story time and related art activity. 11am-noon, PÉREZ ART MUSEUM MIAMI,

1103 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 305-375-3000 www.pamm.org

Overnight Adventure SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29

Mini Monday MONDAYS

The first day of each week is geared toward the pint-size lot (birth through age 5) when the museum is free of group visits, offering a low-key environment for little ones to explore. $15/Florida resident with ID, free/under 1. 10am-6pm, MIAMI CHILDREN’S MUSEUM, 980 MacArthur Causeway, Miami, 305-373-5437 www.miamichildrensmuseum.org

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

Experience the museum after hours

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.

September 2018 | 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

Like Mother, Like Son THE ANTI-SOCCER MOM HANDS DOWN HER AVERSION TO SPORTS

BY KARA MARTINEZ BACHMAN

I

don’t care for sports. I never have. During childhood, I spent my time roller-skating and riding bikes with kids from the neighborhood. I was active, but it wasn’t the competitive, organized kind of active.

One summer my mother signed me up for soccer.

I spent the TWO practices that I actually showed up for prior to dropping out watching the other kids have fun.

I jogged along lethargically, hoping I’d never actually contact the ball.

I vowed my own children would be more active. My husband and I were sure the piney woods and coastal landscapes where we lived would inspire our kids to hike, run, swim, play sports and take in all that the outdoors had to offer.

Nope.

Our son “played” basketball at his elementary school. He spent most games meekly planted on the bench. He watched the others, waiting for his two or three moments with the ball, which would always be fraught with disappointment.

After the basketball fiasco, we thought baseball was the way to go. Yeah, he’d play along, for sure. He’d say he liked it, no doubt to make his father proud. But the watery sadness in his eyes and his lack of pre-game enthusiasm spoke the words he never could.

When younger, my husband had been the opposite. He was a star of the basketball team. He had his picture in the papers often. So it wasn’t my husband’s genes or attitude that shaped my son’s distaste for sport — it was mine.

It took some time to come to grips with this, and I’ve finally forgiven myself. I have. Although exercise is important to well-being, there’s probably no “blame” to be placed for a child not wanting to hit balls, kick goals or wrestle people to the ground. Sometimes it just is. Every child has their talents, their proclivities.

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On the other hand, it’s still my duty to make sure what my kids inherited from me — the genes, the attitude, the whatever — is balanced by other healthy activities to help keep their bodies at least somewhat moving.

Over the years, we’ve found alternative ways to fill the exercise void. My daughter is getting to the age where she likes to dance. My son now takes long bike rides, sometimes trekking with his dad 20 miles at a time. He swims with friends. But he’d rather read a book or watch an old movie than join any sort of team.

Now as a teen, my son is a beautiful writer. I swell with pride when he shares his stories and songs that can be so touching, you’d swear they were written by an adult. He plays some on his guitar, and it is much more joyful for me — and more entertaining — than watching him sit on a bench, staring at a gymnasium floor.

He also makes short films. He writes scripts, finds actors (his sister is a great one), creates costumes and puts together complete short movies, including cool special effects and carefully selected soundtracks. His father, the former athlete, beams with pride that his son has found his calling.

When the final credits roll, the cheers are just as good as those delivered on a ball field. And the look of pride in his eyes — now that he’s not just “pretending” to have fun — is 100% real.

Kara Martinez Bachman is author of the humorous essay collection for women, Kissing the Crisis: Field Notes on Foul-Mouthed Babies, Disenchanted Women, and Careening into Middle Age. Don’t look for her in the bleachers.

1495 NORTH PARK DRIVE WESTON, FL 33326 INFO@THERAPIES4KIDS.COM PHONE: 954-633-5507

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