Miami Kids Magazine issue 310

October-November

NUMBER 310

2019

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Learning valuable lessons from our Exceptional Kids

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Family

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Feature

An Interview with Maria Alonso, CEO of United Way of Miami-Dade & Loreen Chant CEO of Easterseals

Chapman Partnership empowers more than 4,500 homeless residents in South Florida annually October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month

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Special Assistance Guide Sponsored by The Rotary Club of Miami

Community

The Virtue of Patience, Compassion, and Persistence

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How to Have a HeartHealthy Halloween

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Fall Activity Guide

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Parenting

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Social

MKM Back to School Back to School at Shops At Merrick Park UPS 5K supporting United Way of Miami Dade YMCA Drowning Prevention Gala

Thank you is a special word in our everyday lives.

In this issue we are celebrating Thanksgiving and being thankful for all the blessings we have with our families and friends. the best information to our community.

PUBLISHER - EDITOR Karla C. Richey

CREATIVE DIRECTOR I wanted to start this letter giving thanks to all of our readers and partners who believe in Miami Kids Magazine and have helped us to reach our goal to provide

A big thanks to all of you who are sending donations to our friends in the Bahamas after hurricane Dorian. All of our prayers are with them and their families who have suffered losses after this horrible natural disaster.

One of the main reasons I created this magazine was to provide support to our special needs community. This issue is dedicated to them with many interesting articles and a Special Assistance Guide sponsored by The Rotary Club of Miami.

What a beautiful world we would have if each of us could bring a smile to another parents face who has to struggle every day with their kids’ diagnostic that will change their lives forever, and that they have to deal with medical bills, everyday therapies, etc. Being indifferent to others does not fulfill our lives. I ask you to support each other as parents and make a difference in somebody’s life with a simple smile.

On the cover page we have two amazing ladies who represent two great organizations that serve our community and our special needs families.

Don’t miss the full article on pages 20 and 21.

On November 9th we will be having a Special Needs Expo at United Way of Miami Dade. We hope that you can join us. We will have many great speakers and valuable information for parents.

On page 13, we have some great tips from Jr. Master Chef Logan Guleff on how to make a tender turkey and what to do with all of the leftovers!

Nothing to waste!

If you want to be updated on what is happening in Miami and surrounding areas this time of the year, don’t miss the Fall Activity Guide on page 30.

We hope to see you October 31st at the city of South Miami and Miami Kids Magazine’s Safe Streets Halloween Party on US1 to 57th avenue.

Find the best family costume and join the costume contest!

Enjoy this issue prepared with love from all our team to you!

Karla C. Richey

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Miami Kids Magazine October-November 2019

Enrique Chavez Pincilotti

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Diane Landsberg Nelly Lusich Logan Guleff The American Heart Association Ana Veiga-Milton Beatriz Galan

SPANISH EDITOR Nelly Lusich

MARKETING AND SALES Karla C. Richey

EDITORIAL ASSOCIATE Claudia Del Castillo PHOTOGRAPHY Enrique Tubio

DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT Jessica Almeida

GRAPHIC DESING jhonriverarrera@gmail.com Jhonn Rivera

WWW.MIAMIKIDSMAGAZINE.COM @MiamiKidsMagazine @MiamiKidsMagazine © 2019 Miami Kids, LLC. All rights reserved.

Issue 310. Miami Kids™ Magazine is published bimonthly in the USA. Reproduction in whole or in partial without written permission is prohibited.

Publisher is not responsible for claims and content of advertisements.

Learning Valuable

LESSONS

ional from our Except

Kids

Children with special needs aren’t sent to special parents, they make their parents special.”

This wonderful quote, author unknown, has the word “special” three times! As the holidays approach, be thankful for your special child and thankful that you are such a special parent. .

I have always searched and volunteered for special opportunities to include my children so they could experience providing community service to others. The Miami Marathon race was always on our list to serve the athletes food and drinks. When my son was about 8 years old he approached a group of men in wheelchairs that rolled their way across the finish line, proving they are special. He then blurted out, “When you dream at night, do you walk?”. Being the mom, I freaked out at his bluntness, and apologized. The men all chuckled, and one said, “We would rather answer questions than have someone look at us and feel sorry for us”. I stood in silence as they explained to my son with their answers of, “Yes, I walk in my dreams, as I was injured in an accident” and “No, I was born this way, so I am always in a wheelchair”. They showed that they were special with their patience with my son and they also had the completion medal around their necks to prove it. My son then sprinted across the field and convinced the vender in the refreshment truck to return with him to help his group of new, special friends.

I learned something special that day from my son from his innocent question that became a valuable lesson. If you meet a friend, neighbor or even a stranger that is with their child that has special needs, it is okay to inquire about the child’s disability or condition without being rude or intrusive. It also gives you the opportunity to compliment, encourage and even offer assistance if needed.

My son helped out that day as he overheard one man say he would love a beer, but couldn’t hold the glass and maneuver his wheelchair at the same time. They were thankful for the help of the vendor for cups of beer and raised their cups to toast my son.

and be helpful.

Always inquire, observe, listen meone!

Everyone can be special to so October-November 2019

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By Nelly Lusich

The Virtue of patience, Compassion, and Persistence

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was a curious little boy who loved to have fun like any other kid. Jessica said usually those who are on the autism spectrum look for patterns and routine. However, our world does not always cater to patterns and this might cause anxiety for those on the spectrum.

t is very important to teach our kids at a young age that we all are different and we have to be nice to people around us. We should teach our kids that there might be other kids that could be in wheelchairs, that might make some noises, or that they might need some device in order to communicate, and they should know that these kids are exceptional and we have to include them as part of the community.

we scheduled, just attempting to convince her to sit. Eventually, we both got into a routine, and she was ready to work when I would arrive.” She has been working with her for almost six years now. “She taught me that each child has her own unique way to learn, whether visual, verbal, or kinesthetic.

She taught me patience because I had to take the extra time to focus, not on how I would learn, but on her individual way to learn and understand information” Noa said.

A great example of this is the case of these two young ladies who volunteer their time since a young age to learn more about exceptional kids:

She also is volunteering with Shake- A- Leg Miami, and The Friendship Circle. Through her work with her neighbor, and these institutions she concludes “I am grateful to have learned the power of patience, compassion, and persistence. The problems that exceptional kids face is as significant as anyone else’s, and should be no barrier to meaningful and fulfilling friendships”.

Jessica tried this with Jordan and little by little she was able to make changes to his routine. Jordan’s family lived on five acres of land. “I noticed that Jordan did not really go outside to play and instead had a routine of spending time indoors and watching movies.

I started applying what he was watching in movies like Kung Fu Panda, to excite him and get him to be more active. There was never more than two consecutive days of the same routine. This helped encourage him to be more flexible, jump around, and simply be a kid”.

Jessica Almeida, at age 17, used to care for Jordan, who is a 7-year-old with autism higher on the spectrum and is nonverbal. He

We hope that you, as a parent can motivate your kids to interact with our exceptional kids and make this world a better place to live!

Noa Ehrenstein is 17 years old. She has been working with exceptional kids since she was in 7th grade.

She learned the virtues of patience and persistence when her neighbors asked her to tutor their second-grade daughter who struggled with ADHD. “I would occasionally have to spend thirty minutes of the short hour

October-November 2019

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Getting Ready for

Thanksgiving Dinner Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays! I love the way that the kitchen buzzes with excitement.

By Logan Guleff lot of people get stressed about cooking the turkey, but don’t fret because I have some killer turkey tips.

The 1st tip is super easy. Remember to wash the turkey and remove the bag of organs from the cavity. Now that may seem like a no brainer but it makes a huge difference, if you add some raw celery, apple, onion, and other aromatics along with seasoning, to the inside of the cavity, it can make a surprising difference in the flavor and aroma.

The 2nd tip is to find a turkey with a low percentage of added solution. The lower the percentage of added solution, the better the turkey will cook.

Another great chef tip is to use a brine. When you brine a turkey you can add in extra flavor, extra moisture, and extra tenderness. Brining is especially important if you get a turkey without an injected solution. it will make it substantially more tender and milder and get out some of the gamey flavor that can be present in turkeys without an injected solution. As for cooking the turkey, I cook it at 350 degrees and 20 minutes per pound, I also like to slide butter and herbs under the skin of the turkey.

Here is my brine recipe , Its really awesome!

Ingredients: • 1liter of apple juic e, • fresh poultry herbs • 1 sliced lemon, • 1/2 head of fenne l chopped • 1 cup salt, • 1/2 cup sugar, Mix all the ingredients into a pot to brine the whole turkey, and ad d water and then let brine for from 6 to 24 ho urs. Remember to let the turkey sit a few mi nutes before serving.

WHAT DO YOU DO WI TH THE LEFTOVER TURKEY? Try making some Turke y Nachos!

• 1 bag of corn chips • 1-2 cups shredde d turkey • 1 cup leftover vegg ies • 1 cup left overstuf fing • Drizzle of left-ove r gravy warmed • Dr izz le lef tov er cra nb err y sa uc e warmed to a liquid • 1 stem sage fried • 1/2 cup shredded cheese optional Just assemble and se rve. If you warm the toppings it almost does n’t need roasting!

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How to Have a

Heart-Healthy By the American Heart Assosiation

Your kids have their costumes ready and are counting down the days until October 31st!

Maybe you’re having a party with school friends or plan to just walk the neighborhood.

Whatever your plans, be sure to include some heart-healthy fun in the mix.

For the Trick-or-Treater FILL UP FIRST. Having a healthy meal BEFORE your kids go trick-or-treating can reduce their temptation to snack while walking or to overindulge, because their tummies will be full.

BAG IT. Be sure to find the right size collection bag for your child. If you encourage your child to only take one piece of candy from each house, they’ll be able to visit more houses in the neighborhood.

GET RID OF IT! Worried you’ll have leftover Halloween candy?

Using a smaller bag will help, but sometimes kids STILL end up with a ton of extra sweets. Here are some ideas of what to do with the leftover candy: 1.

Keep enough candy for one piece a day for one or two weeks (long enough for the

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excitement to wane). Throw away, donate or repurpose the rest.

When your child asks for a piece of candy, make sure to pair it with a healthy snack: an apple, a banana, some nuts, or celery with peanut butter.

“Buy back” candy from your child with money or tokens they can trade in for a fun activity: a day at the zoo, an afternoon playing at the park, going ice skating, or a day at the pool.

Some dentists’ offices have buy-back or trade-in programs, too.

Save it for holiday baking.

Donate excess candy to a homeless shelter or care package program for troops overseas. A familiar sweet treat from home can be comforting at the holidays.

Save it to fill the piñata at the next birthday celebration or give out with Valentine cards.

Use it in an arts and crafts project or to decorate a holiday gingerbread house.

GET MOVING. Get some exercise. Set a goal of how many houses or streets you’ll visit, or compete to do as many as you can.

Bring a bottle of water and wear comfortable shoes for walking!

SAFETY FIRST. Check expiration dates and inspect all edibles before allowing children to eat them.

HAVE A PLAN. Halloween can be a great time to talk with kids about making smart choices, the need for balance and moderation, and how to achieve an overall healthy eating pattern.

For the Party Host UP THE FRIGHT FACTOR. Serve healthy snacks dressed up in the Halloween theme. There are lots of creative ideas being shared online at this time of year!

PLAY WITH FOOD. Incorporate healthy foods into activities, such as decorating oranges like Jack-O-Lanterns, making banana ghosts, and bobbing for apples.

KEEP ‘EM MOVING. Include plenty of physical activities, like a zombie dance party, three-legged monster race, spider crawl or pumpkin toss.

RETHINK YOUR DRINK. Don’t forget that cutting back on sugary treats includes soda and sugar-sweetened beverages. Offer water, unsweetened tea, 100% juice, or fatfree/low-fat milk instead.

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H

By Beatriz Galan

Chapman Partnership empowers more than 4,500 homeless residents in South Florida annually

omelessness affects every aspect of a person’s life, including their ability to provide for their family and their future. Chapman Partnership, an organization operating two homeless assistance centers in Miami and Homestead, has championed for the empowerment of South Florida’s homeless community for nearly 25 years by serving as not only a place for the homeless to rest their head at night but as a comprehensive program that transforms lives and fosters long-term self-sufficiency.

With an outstanding success rate, Chapman Partnership works tirelessly to help rebuild the lives of homeless men, women, and children. The organization offers emergency shelter to 800 residents daily, comprehensive case management, health and dental care, food, job training and placement, permanent housing assistance, and other help from a variety of social service agencies.

Founded in 1995 by the esteemed Alvah H. Chapman Jr., the organization grew out of years of planning, task forces, fundraising, public hearings, and tireless work from many. Today, the efforts and generosity of countless volunteers and donors strengthen Mr. Chapman’s legacy and vision for the community, serving as the backbone of the mission.

Whether volunteering individually or in a group, Chapman Partnership’s volunteers help better the lives of those in need. With three hot meals served each day, totaling more than 800,000 meals, volunteers can offer great assistance by preparing, serving,

or sponsoring any meal. There are also various hands-on volunteer opportunities in Chapman Partnership’s Family Resource Centers. For information about volunteering, please call 305.329.3003.

Another vital contribution to the advancement of Chapman Partnership’s mission is the generosity of its invaluable donors. The gifts made by donors carry Chapman Partnership’s ability to deliver life-changing programs and services to its homeless residents. To donate to Chapman Partnership and make a real difference in the lives of people who have fallen on hard times, visit chapmanpartnership.org/give/ or text “CP” to 444-999.

In celebration of the hard work and dedication of these donors and volunteers, Chapman Partnership will host its annual lluminations Gala on October 26, 2019, at the JW Marriott Marquis. The evening of dining, dancing and entertainment recognizes the accomplishments made toward the cause this year. For sponsorship information or to purchase tickets, please call 305-329-3092 or visit www.chapmanpartnership.org/gala.

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MARIA ALONSO CEO of United Way of MiamiDade & LOREEN CHANT CEO of Easterseals 20

Miami Kids Magazine October-November 2019

Credits: Photography: Enrique Tubio.

An Interview with

1

Maria, tell us about your professional background and how you got started working for a nonprofit organization?

With a 22-year career at Bank of America and degrees in engineering and business administration, some might think leading a nonprofit was quite a departure from my career path but, in many ways, it was a natural progression. In my last role, I had the opportunity to spearhead corporate social responsibility and employee engagement programs for over a decade, which gave me unique insights into our community’s wide-ranging needs and into humanity’s philanthropic spirit. Throughout my career, my involvement with nonprofit organizations has been a source of personal satisfaction, providing a deep connection to our community.

My love for Miami and for building community is what brought me to United Way more than 20 years ago as a volunteer, then as a board member and today as its president and CEO. I am one of thousands of volunteers, supporters and staff who fight for a more resilient, stronger Miami, grounded in the conviction that our community, and economy, cannot thrive if working families cannot prosper. With nearly six out of 10 households living in, or one emergency away from, poverty we must all work together to elevate the quality of life for all our residents.

do you feel as a woman to have 2 How this important leadership role as a CEO of the United Way of Miami-Dade?

As a Hispanic woman and lifelong Miamian, it is incredibly humbling to be at the helm of a 95-year-old organization that takes pride in its rich history of fighting for inclusion and supporting diversity. And as a female leader, it is a unique platform by which to empower, inspire and support women and girls everywhere.

By Karla Richey

much more. We have been a proud partner of Easterseals for over ten years.

Loreen, tell us about Easterseals and 4 their mission with “exceptional” kids and adults.

At Easterseals, we provide special education programs for children ages birth to 22 years old, Head Start programs, Alzheimer’s day care and in-home respite services. We provide programs and services that support and strengthen families who have children with developmental delays or disabilities as well as family caregivers for seniors with memory disorders and dementia.

Our school provides a supportive academic experience and a nurturing social environment for our exceptional students.

We are incredibly responsive to the unique needs of each of our students and we know that with the right supports and resources, every child is capable of gaining academic and life skills. We work closely with our families to support them.

Department of Education to support students who enroll in our school. In fact, many children attend our school at no cost to their families.

With all of your experience over the 6 years, what advice would you give to parents with exceptional kids?

When a child receives a disability diagnosis, for the family, it can be overwhelming. If you have concerns, don’t delay in reaching out for support and speak to your doctor about your concerns. The first 5 years in a child’s life are critical, and if developmental delays are identified & intervention provided early, children can be ready for kindergarden.

If a family is unsure what resources are available to them, I suggest they reach out to Early Steps and, for families with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, the University of Miami’s Center for Autism and Related Disabilities. Both are outstanding community resources.

us why United Way chose 5 Can anyone who has “exceptional” kids 7 Maria, Loreen, please give us a final 3 Tell message to our readers get support from Easterseals? What Easterseals as one of the organizations that you support

United Way and Easterseals share a passion for assisting our most vulnerable residents, including young children and older adults with special needs. Both agencies are committed to helping people of all ages and capacities access health services, lead healthy lifestyles and enjoy more independent lives. Easterseals’ professional staff use evidence based practices to offer therapeutic and early intervention services to young children and provide wraparound services to patients and families facing Alzheimer’s and other dementia. They empower these families every step of the way with knowledge, caregiver respite, direct services and so

does the acceptance process involve?

For children from birth to 2 years of age, we recommend families reach out to Early Steps, Florida’s early intervention system that offers referral services to eligible infants and toddlers who are at-risk for developmental disabilities or delays. We serve children through Early Steps as well as through Early Head Start and Head Start.

For older children, we encourage families reach out to us directly. We will get to know the needs of each family and share more about our classrooms and our programs.

Once accepted, we assist families in applying for funding support through the McKay or Gardiner Scholarship Programs.

Funds are available through the Florida

M: As United Way celebrates 95 years of transforming vulnerability into empowerment, poverty into opportunity and despair into hope, we invite everyone to join our work and take part in the 9500 for 95 Challenge - recruiting 9,500 volunteers for 95 service projects throughout our anniversary year. Find an opportunity that is right for you at www.VolunteerMiami.org.

L: Together with the United Way of MiamiDade, Eastereals is helping children achieve their full potential and laying a strong foundation for them to thrive. We are proud of our partnership, as it allows us to amplify our work and make an even greater impact in this community.

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EARLY STEPS Early Steps provides early intervention services to children ages 0-3 born with a disability or developmental delay. These include: Family Support/Training, Health/Nutritional/Vision/ Translator Services, Occupational/Physical/ Speech/Vision Therapy, Service Coordination, and Third Party Referrals. Evaluation is free, and services are covered by insurance or Part C funds. Once your child is deemed eligible, you will receive the Individualized Family Support Plan with authorized services/guidance on what to do next.

Call 305.929.8705 or visit www.benchmarkhs.com for more information.

CHILDREN’S REHAB NETWORK Children’s Rehab Network is dedicated to providing nursing, education, and therapeutic care to children requiring habilitative and rehabilitative services. We strive to provide the highest quality pediatric care that places the child and family at the heart of the program.

We seek to help stabilize and improve a child’s condition and to assist the family as much as possible. With compassion, we provide services that enhance the health, independence, selfsufficiency, and productivity of those served, while also providing support to their families. https://crnppec.com/ We have two Locations : North Dade : (305) 622-7575 South Miami : (305) 665-0886

SPECIAL

ASSISTANCE CRYSTAL ACADEMY Crystal Academy Premium Therapy Center provides Behavior, Speech & Language and Occupational Therapy interventions, tutoring and academic support. The School side offers individualized attention within a group setting promoting communication, education, socialization, inclusion opportunities within the City of Coral Gables and Community Based Instruction in the Greater Miami Area.

107 Antilla Avenue, Coral Gables, Ph. 305-567-5881 www.crystalacademycg.com MIAMI LIGHTHOUSE FOR THE BLIND Miami Lighthouse for the Blind is Florida’s largest and oldest nonprofit serving the needs of the blind and visually impaired. Through education, training, research and vision enhancement, Miami Lighthouse provides hope, confidence, and independence to people of all ages, transforming the lives of over 75,000 blind and visually impaired people annually, from babies to seniors, and their families. Our programs’ impact is statewide, national, and international.

Phone: 305-856-2288

MIAMI LEARNING EXPERIENCE SCHOOL At Miami Learning Experience School (MLE), we know that children and adults with special needs have capabilities far beyond what was imagined before. At MLE we provide personal care and attention, carefully developed programs, and objectives that help each student achieve their goals. We are of the belief that all children with developmental disabilities have the potential for learning and becoming active members of our community as independent as possible. This is not just what we believe here at MLE, this is what we strive to achieve!

Email: mle@mleschool.org Phone: (305) 275-5900

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NICKLAUS CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL Offers a full range of bilingual diagnostic and therapeutic services to meet the needs of infants, children and adolescents. Inpatient rehabilitation services are offered to patients in the hospital’s neonatal, pediatric and cardiac intensive care units. A full spectrum of outpatient rehabilitative care is also offered at select Nicklaus Children’s outpatient locations throughout South Florida providing physical, occupational, speech-language, and feeding and swallowing therapies. Orthopedic sports medicine, injury prevention and performance training programs are also available.

Address: 3100 SW 62 Ave Miami, FL 33155 Appointment line: 877-624-8413 nicklauschildrens.org/rehab

Miami Kids Magazine October-November 2019

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CHERRY BLOSSOM ACADEMY Blossoms Therapy service, along with Innovative Minds multi-disciplinary team, specializes in the field of early childhood education, program implementation, and early intervention pediatric therapy services in the home environment. We provide a comprehensive competency to Early Intervention Services, following the early steps educational models that are outcome-driven, community-focused, and compassionate in nature.

For more information: Innovativemindsaba@gmail.com or call 305-321-7817 EASTER SEALS Easterseals South Florida provides special education services or services for children with disabilities/special needs. Therapists, teachers and health professionals help each person overcome obstacles to independence and reach his or her personal goals. Educational services include: Early Education, Child Development, Autism Elementary & Middle School, Culinary Arts High School (students ages 14-22 with autism/special needs).

For more information, please contact: 305-547-4715 Website: www.easterseals.com/southflorida

BEST BUDDIES Best Buddies is the world’s largest organization dedicated to ending the social, physical and economic isolation of the 200 million people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Our programs empower the special abilities of people with IDD by helping them form meaningful friendships with their peers, secure successful jobs, live independently, improve public speaking, self-advocacy and communication skills, and feel valued by society. Interested in being involved in South Florida?

Call us at 305-374-2233 ext. 243 PARENT TO PARENT Parent to Parent of Miami’s Community Parent Resource Center provides peer support and advocacy to families of people with disabilities.

The assistance and coaching provided empower families/caregivers to access services that lead to increased advocacy at home, school, and community. Each family is assigned an Education and Support Specialist to coach as they face the challenges of parenting children with special needs.

Website: http://www.ptopmiami.org/ GTG PPEC GTG PPEC is a prescribed pediatric extended care facility that caters to medically fragile children ages 0 -21. We provide the highest quality nursing care in addition to therapies; physical, occupational, speech, behavioral and respiratory. Transportation services are free of cost and care is covered through Medicaid. Join us now!

Website: www.gtgppec.com

FLORIDA KIDCARE Florida KidCare is the state’s low cost, highquality health and dental insurance program for kids. Offering head-to-toe coverage, Florida KidCare is great insurance for kids and one less worry for parents! Four programs (Medicaid, MediKids, Florida Healthy Kids and the Children’s Medical Services Managed Care Plan) provide kids-only coverage from birth through the end of age 18. With no application fee and year-round enrollment, the time to apply is always now! Estimate your monthly payment in 20 seconds or less at floridakidcare.org.

THERAPIES 4 KIDS Therapies for Kids provide services in the areas of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech & Language Therapy, as well as ABA therapy at their new location American Therapy House (www.ATHaba.com). Almost all insurances, both private and Medicaid, accepted. Services provided by license therapy; for more information visit our website www.therapies4kids.com

MY OPTIMAL CHILD We provide comprehensive services to reach children’s optimal development through innovative, evidence-based, and wholechild approach. From psycho-educational assessments and parent support to brain training, educational therapy, and shadow services. Home-based and school-based services provided in South Miami, Brickell/KB, North Miami, and Doral. Gardiner Scholarship providers. Over 20 years of experience.

Web page: www.myoptimalchild.com email: info@vseducation.org Phone:786-393-7955 Address: 777 Brickell Ave, suite 542,33131 Contact: Valeria Fontanals, Ed.M,SS Director/ Licensed School Psychologist/ Harvard trained We provide comprehensive services to reach children’s optimal development through

October-November 2019

sponsored by

Miami Kids Magazine

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JOE DIMAGGIO CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL The Division of Pediatric Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital offers comprehensive rehabilitation services to support children and adolescents with physical and neurological conditions that affect the functionality of the brain, spinal cord, limbs, muscles, and nerves. We support our pediatric patients through every phase of their rehabilitation process, including inpatient and outpatient care.

1005 Joe DiMaggio Drive Hollywood, FL 33021 954-265-5453 https://www.jdch.com/services/rehabilitation

SNIP ITS HAIRSALONS To make a Snip-its haircut adventure a positive experience, our stylists receive special training to meet the needs of children with autism.

You can schedule a pre-visit, or download our Snip-its Haircut Guide with a visual path at snipits.com, to make your kiddo comfortable about visiting the salon and familiarize them with our stylists.

Phone: (786) 901-7186

BROWARD CHILDREN CENTER Since 1971, Broward Children’s Center has been providing services through our network of care to infants, children, and young adults with special health care needs. Our network includes a skilled nursing facility, group homes, PPEC, home health, developmental preschools, respite care, advocacy services, ABA, occupational and speech therapy.

For more information contact: Myrna Miott 200 SE 19th Avenue, Pompano Beach, FL 33060 Phone:954.649.7362 E-mail:info@bcckids.org

FROST MUSEUM Just for Me is a program dedicated to welcoming individuals and families with special needs to explore the world of Frost Science. These events provide a way to enjoy the museum in a quiet, comfortable and accepting environment and include a sensory modified setting, limited admission, and sound/lighting adjustments. For more information visit frostscience.org/justforme.

SUCCEED Help your child SUCCEED with our 8-week intensive therapeutic program by working on individualized goals implemented in the individual and small group settings. These goals are developed by Speech Language Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists and Behavior Specialists.

S-U-C-C-E-ED uses a combination of individual and small group instruction designed to bridge the gap between individual therapy and the preschool setting. Phone: 305-667-2325 YOUNG AT ART MUSEUM -SENSORY SUNDAY A “YAA FOR ALL” PROGRAM Every Second Sunday of the month Young At Art Museum opens one hour early for families of children with autism or other sensory sensitivities. Guests can explore the museum and enjoy art activities in a safe and welcoming environment with CARD staff members present for support and additional resources.

Young At Art Museum 751 SW 121st Avenue Davie, Florida 33325 954-424-0085 http://www.youngatartmuseum.org/ yaaforall.php

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5651 S.W. 82nd Avenue Road Miami, Florida 33143 Phone: 305.275.5900 Fax: 305.275.4440 www.mleschool.org

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SAFE STREETS HALLOWEEN PARTY Don’t miss the City of South Miami and Miami Kids Magazine’s Safe Streets Halloween Block Party! It’s going to be on October 31st from 4 PM to 7 PM. The party will be from SW 72nd St. to 57th Avenue. There will be safe and fun trick or treating for the whole family! Enjoy a visit from Scooby-Doo, Sharky, free candy, games, prizes, music, costume contest, inflatables, and much more! Pick a costume theme for the whole family and enjoy the spookiest night of the year

BE A MONSTAR WITH MIAMI KIDS MAGAZINE AND POTTERY BARN KIDS Dress your little ones in their favorite PBK costume and let’s parade different stores as: Pottery Barn Kids, Pottery Barn, WilliamsSonoma, Neiman-Marcus, babycottons, Boy Meets Girl, I Know Science, Gymboree, Kumon, and many more! Join in the fun on Saturday, October 12th and don’t forget a treat bag! We are going to have some face painting, raffles, costume contests, and much more! Don’t forget to enjoy our candies, refreshments, and special discounts! RSVP 305-446-6511

SCREAMIN’ GREEN HAUNTOWEEN AT CRAYOLA EXPERIENCE ORLANDO Screamin’ Green Hauntoween is back September 21– October 31, and it’s bigger and more colorful than ever! Monster-ific crafts and special, spooky happenings all month long: a themed scavenger hunt, a live slime-themed show and Crayola Slime Class,* an ooey-gooey class that’s fun for the whole family! Plus trickor-treating and dance parties every weekend, all while exploring 27 exciting hands-on attractions. There is so much to “BOO”, you may never want to leave. ALL included with general admission. General Admission is $24.99 + tax per person, 2 and under are free. Learn more at crayolaexperience.com/orlando (*additional fee applies)

COCONUT GROVE PUMPKIN PATCH Miami Kids Magazine is a proud sponsor of Coconut Grove Pumpkin Patch! Pick your perfect pumpkin from thousands in our patch!

Also, don’t forget the rides! From kiddie roller coasters to bumper cars, we have it all! Featuring a Build-Your-Own Scarecrow activity, a corn stalk maze, and a pumpkin decorating tent, this year’s Pumpkin Patch will be spooktacular!

October 26 & 27

Miami Kids Magazine October-November 2019

PINTO’S FARM PUMPKIN PATCH Pinto’s Farm is hosting their 6th annual Pumpkin Patch event from September 28-November 3, 2019. There will be fun-filled activities for all ages! Admission includes unlimited rides, magic shows and access to the hay maze & Petting Zoo. Don’t miss out on the pumpkin painting & delicious smoothies!

GOBLINS AND GIGGLES AT GAYLORD PALMS From September 13 to November 3, celebrate Halloween with spooky activities!. This Halloween season, pack your costume for a ghoulish good time at Gaylord Palms, including fun and frights for every member of the family!

The best way to experience Goblins and Giggles is to spend the night with us.

SPECIAL ASSISTANCE EXPO On Saturday, November 9, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, join Miami Kids Magazine for our Special Assistance Expo! This event is dedicated to bringing parents valuable resources for their exceptional kids. We are going to have information about speech therapy, occupational therapy, sensory issues, physical therapy, swallowing disorders, mobility issues, intellectual therapy, mental health, special needs education, and much more!.

FUNKEYNETICS HALLOWEEN EVENT BOO! Let’s get SPOOKY, FUNKEY, and JAMMIN’! Join us on October 20th from 10 AM-12 PM at Funkeynetics for a very Funkey Halloween Jam with Mr. J! Come dressed to impress and ready for a jam session with Mr. J, a Funkey Halloween Costume Contest, treats, and crafts. Price for the party will be $30 per family—all the fun included. Be there if you dare! Reserve your spots online before all the monsters gobble.

MONSTER SPLASH AT MIAMI SEAQUARIUM A Halloween Bash returns to Miami Seaquarium from October 25-27. Come in your costume to watch Halloween themed shows, trick-ortreating around the park, ride rides and more!

Purchase your Monster Fun Pack online only, and get ready to celebrate at Miami Seaquarium from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.!.

BOO BASH AT MALL OF THE AMERICAS Mall of the Americas’ annual Halloween Celebration returns Wednesday, October 31st from 5pm-7pm in Center Court. Children ages 10 and under are invited to enjoy fun games with the friendly, bilingual Gigi the Witch. Trick or Treating at participating stores while supplies last. Masks are only allowed on small children.

For details visit www.malloftheamericas.com.

FAMILY DAY ON ARAGON Miami Kids Magazine is proud to sponsor the Coral Gables Museum Family Day on Aragon event! On October 12th, from 2 PM to 5 PM, join us at the Coral Gables Museum as we show our support for Breast Cancer Awareness! Along with free admission to the Museum, children, and families will enjoy fun craft activities that celebrate our global mission to promote a positive environment of good health and prosperity. This event is fun, free, and open to the public!.

YAALLOWEEN! AT YOUNG AT ART MUSEUM This museum-wide party features Halloweenthemed programs and art activities including Monster Puppets, Spooky Story Time and Art, Mysterious ISPY Activity, Not-so-Scary Music Time, Monster Mash Dance Party, Costume Parade, Tick-or-Treating, Giveaways and more!

Join us Oct. 25 from 3pm to 8pm for a night of artful frightful fun for the entire family.

For details call 954-424-0085 O r v i s i t h t t p s : / / w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / events/2344653675581870/ HALLOWEEN BASH AT I KNOW SCIENCE TOY STORE & SCI-LAB! CORAL GABLES Friday, October 18th, 2019, the fun begins at 5 until 7PM. Put on your, non-scary, costume & head on over for a SPOOK-tacular & BOO-tiful time!

TREATS - COSTUME CONTEST (6PM) - FUN & GAMES - MUSIC - PRIZES - CRAFTS RSVP preferred. Please call 786.633.6978 or email us your guest list and kids’ ages to info@ iknowscience.com. (All Ages - FREE EVENT).

ZOO BOO AT ZOO MIAMI Zoo Boo is South Florida’s Number One Trickor-Treating event where families and kids ages 12 and under are invited to trick-or-treat in costumes, participate in costume contests, watch special performances, make Halloween crafts, see our wild animals get their Halloween goodies, and more!

Included with Zoo Admission

Check out our Holiday Activity Guide online on November 1st and in our newsletter on November 6th!

October-November 2019

Miami Kids Magazine

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October is

National Domestic

VIOLENCE

Awareness Month

A

n issue of great concern for parents is relationship violence, the broad category that includes domestic and dating violence.

According to the CDC, nearly 1 in 11 female and 1 in 15 male teens report having experienced physical dating violence in the last year. Teen dating violence can lead to depression, anxiety, unhealthy behavior (drugs, alcohol, and smoking), antisocial behaviors (lying, bullying, theft), and suicidal thoughts.

Unhealthy relationships can start early and last a lifetime. As teens begin to date, it is important that they are equipped with the necessary skills, such as effectively managing feelings and using healthy communication, to help them engage in healthy relationships. Teens often think behaviors like teasing and name-calling are a normal part of a relationship, but these behaviors can become abusive and develop into serious forms of violence. A strong connection with parents and other influential adults can encourage teens to communicate feelings and prevent negative behaviors from escalating.

Dating violence can take place in person or electronically, such as sexting (texting of nude or semi-nude photos), secondary sexting (when a recipient of a sext forwards it to a third party), and revenge porn (distribution of sexually explicit images to the public without the subject’s consent). While teens may view sexting as a form of flirtation, many teens are coerced into sending nude photos or explicit language, which can provide an abusive partner with leverage.

Florida National University’s POWERHOUSE Domestic &Teen Dating Violence Summit shows teens and the community what behaviors constitute respectful relationships, as well as how to recognize the warning signs and patterns of dating violence. By promoting summits like The Many Faces of Domestic and Teen Dating Violence, the over 100 POWERHOUSE members, all Movers & Shakers throughout Miami-Dade County, are certain that children, teens, parents, educators, and the community will be empowered to combat this affliction and avoid the lethal path of domestic and teen violence. The José Milton Foundation is proud to participate in POWERHOUSE!

By Ana VeigaMilton (avmilton@bellsouth.net) and the José Milton Foundation, Presenting Sponsor of FNU POWERHOUSE Summit

October-November 2019

Miami Kids Magazine

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Karla Richey & Superintendent Alberto Carvalho

Jeannie & Alana Kim

Miami Kids Magazine Back to School Event On August 13th at shops of Sunset Place, we celebrated the kick off of the new school year with the presence of our guest of honor, Superintended Alberto Carvalho ,who wished all the students a bright new school year in a super celebration.

Board member of Miami Dade Public Schools Dr. Lawrence Feldman presented a proclamation rewarding Miami Kids Magazine on our mission to support the education in our community.

A generous donation from the Rotary Club of Miami was made to Communities In Schools.

The Florida Heiken Children vision program was conducting free eye exams and giving away glasses when prescribed.

The event was sponsored by Splitsville, The Miami Lighthouse for the Blind, Snip-its, The Rotary Club of Miami, The Health Channel, South Florida PBS, and Amazing Parties.

Rosi & Gymbo

Miami Kids Fans

Scott, Karla Richey & Dr. Lawrence Feldman

Richard Fernandez with a a teen ready for an eye exam

Scott Richey, Diane Landsberg, Karla Richey & Eve McKinsey

Nicole, Natasha & Kenia Fonseca

Valentina Guilarte

The Richey Family

Free eye vision test by The Florida Heiken Children’s program

Marta, Madelyne, Lily & Louise Cartin

Luna Michalak with Happy Facepainting

Catalina & Marina with Iraida Lima

Coni Goudie & Elissa Chamizo

Lucky winner of a backpack raffled

by Shops at Merrick Park

Sara & Caroline

Back to School Event at Shops At Merrick Park

Amy Reaves & Bill Lazaro

Valeria & Kenneth Richey

Evelyn, Emily, Natalie & Luis Arroyave, Iliana & Marla Alvarado & Bryan Porras

Miami Kids Magazine was very proud to co-sponsor the Shops at Merrick Park Back to School event on August 9th. Many kids and families enjoyed an afternoon of fun with many raffles, activities, and more.

Shops at Merrick Park Raffled 4 school bags from Pottery Barn Kids. Other raffles were movie tickets, gift card to Vineyard Vines, and more.

Nicolas, Sabrina, Benjamin With Adriana Arana

Priscilla, Andy & Elijah Subervi

Jose & Lucas Ferreira

Katherine, Priscilla & Paola Hernandez, Alexander & Annabelle Di Donato

The UPS 5K benefiting United Way of Miami-Dade

Patricia Montiel, Christy Leyva Nikolas & Lukas Franchic

Rocco,Clara, Kyle Himel Lin Dai Quant & Jennie Torres

The walk-race took participants through the beautiful city of Coral Gables and the neighborhood surrounding the Granada Golf Course.

The race started and ended at the City of Coral Gables Historic City Hall.

MKM was happy to participate in this event that unites families.

Eugene Cabrera, Elijah& Ethan De Armas, Erica Nesenman, Logan & Jonathan Cabrera

Philip & Barbara Wong

Nick & Carla Bevilacqua, Sheryl Woods, Karla & Scott Richey, Jorge Ortega, Neydy Gomez, Sara & Jordan Krawll

Carol & John Vidalin-Sheryl Woods-Steve Stowe

The YMCA of South Florida Beach Ball Nancy Humbert & Roxanna Then

The YMCA of South Florida hosted its annual Beach Ball Fundraiser on September 21 at the InterContinental Miami. This year’s rooftop-themed event focused on the effects of non-fatal drownings on children and their families, while supporting YMCA efforts to make kids safer around water through swim lessons and water safety education. Barbara and Philip Wong received the YMCA’s Life Saver Award for their $1 Million gift to build an Aquatics Center at the South Dade YMCA, which will provide swim lessons and water safety education to kids and families in the South Dade community. Proceeds from the event go towards financial assistance for free swim lessons for children and adults who cannot afford it.

Alvin Lodish & Nariela Bauta

Sheryl Woods & Karla Richey

Iwan & Ausiya Mohamed

Marcos Segrera & Shaefer Withers

Joanne & Joaquin Urquiola-Tom & Joanne Jones

Doug & Sherri Bartel

Arlenna Williams & Vaughn Tooley

Angie Lassman-Larry & Sue Olevitch-Sheli Muniz