Miami Kids Magazine issue 512

December-January

NUMBER 512

2021

11

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22

Feature

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Being Thankful for the Gift of Life

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Parenting

An Interview with Morning News and Traffic Anchor Kristin Sanchez

Family • Living in a Multicultural City with many Holiday Traditions • Take your time, 2022 is just starting!

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36

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Holiday Gift Guide Sponsored by

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Holiday Activity Guide Sponsored by Amazing Parties

Boss Gives back to the Community during this holiday season

Nutrition

Kids’ Physical & Mental Health

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Miami Kids Magazine December - January 2021

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13 24 Sponsored

by The Real Food Academy

Kids Party Fun Guide

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21

Community

Social

• Miami Kids Magazine and City of South Miami Safe Streets Halloween • Miami Kids Magazine and City of Miami Halloween Drive-Through • Sofia’s Hope. Reason to Run 5K • An Enchanted Evening at Friendship Circle, Miami’s 3rd Annual Heart & Soul Gala

We are about to end 2021 and start the new year.

I wanted to thank our partners, readers, and advertisers for your continued

PUBLISHER - EDITOR Karla C. Richey

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Enrique Chavez Pincilotti

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS support of our magazine during

this year and also to my family that is always with me. This year we transitioned our lives from virtual to in person.

Children were able to go back to school and leave the virtual learning behind.

So many things that make us feel blessed.

Let’s say goodbye to 2021 with a beautiful Holiday celebration with the family! Let’s enjoy hugging each other and the ability to be together with our grandparents at the dinner table. We wanted to invite you all to our Holiday event Santa’s Workshop followed by the Parade of the Elves on Sunday December 5th in South Miami. We will have real snow to build a snowman, cookie decorations, a photo booth, character appearances, and a grand finally with the parade with Santa and Mrs. Claus! Thanks to the City of South Miami and South Miami Police Department that contribute to have an amazing event every year!

On the cover page of the magazine, we have the beautiful and talented Kristin Sanchez, news anchor and traffic reporter at NBC. As a new mom she tells us all about her experience with Preston, her beautiful baby. She will also share some special moments as to how she met her husband, Brandon and her family traditions. She will be joining us at our Santa’s Workshop event signing magazines on stage and later will be waiving hello with her family during the parade.

Don’t miss to check our Holiday Activity Guide on page 32 with many fun activities to do with the family during this magical season. Also, if you are looking to get the perfect gift for your children or for the entire family, we have a Holiday Gift Guide with the trendiest gifts and apparel sponsored by Hugo Boss. Check it out on page 36.

Who is ready to party??? The Real Food Academy is bringing the Kids Party Fun Guide on page 24. This is a great resource for families to keep during the entire year with options on birthday parties, party facilities, entertainment and more.

We wish you all an amazing 2022.

8

Karla C. Richey

Miami Kids Magazine December - January 2021

Diane Landsberg The American Heart Association Coach Nick Bevilacqua Mery Lusich Nelly Lusich Maruja Campojo

SPANISH EDITOR Nelly Lusich

MARKETING AND SALES Karla C. Richey

EDITORIAL ASSOCIATE Claudia Del Castillo

PHOTOGRAPHY Enrique Tubio

DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT Noor Barakat

GRAPHIC DESIGN Jhonn Rivera

WWW.MIAMIKIDSMAGAZINE.COM @MiamiKidsMagazine @MiamiKidsMagazine © 2021 Miami Kids, LLC. All rights reserved.

Issue 512. 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.

Being Thankful for the

W

e have had to change a lot and adapt since March of 2020 when Covid arrived. And, separated families have had to work harder to stay connected through email, Zoom, and phone.

Thanksgiving and Christmas in 2020 were quite different and somewhat disappointing.

However, we learned that things don’t always go the way we plan and that much is often out of our control. If we just do a little planning and make a few adjustments, we can use the upcoming holidays to restore some family traditions and possibly create some new ones.

The first item on the list is to remain safe and continue working together. Everyone in my family made the choice to be fully vaccinated, despite various arguments.

I laughed when I read a post on Facebook that said “Want to save money for Christmas, bring up a debate about vaccines and masks at Thanksgiving!”. Fortunately for me, everyone is on board, but many families are not.

If a family member chooses to not be vaccinated, consider requesting a rapid test, which might also be required for selected modes of travel. Implementing CDC guidelines is also useful.

Also, reduce the total number of family members and guests, have more space between seats at the table, open the windows, run fans and invest in a Hepa filter. Help reduce the use of plastic and put names or labels on disposable glasses to reduce waste. Only use disposable napkins at the table and bathrooms. And most

important, share all your guidelines with your guests prior to gatherings to eliminate anyone being surprised.

Our family makes statements following grace and before eating of what they are most grateful and thankful for, even the youngest ones. Now more than ever, get your family to focus on gratitude. There are three

stages of gratitude: Recognition, Acknowledgement and Appreciation.

Gratitude is strongly associated with greater happiness. It can make you feel more positive, relish good experiences, deal with diversity and build strong relationships.

Gratitude comes from the Latin word gratus, which means thankful and pleasing. When you are pleased by what someone did for you, it is so easy to express your gratitude by just saying “I am so thankful for your support”, or “I appreciate everything you have done for me”.

My favorite poet, Maya Angelou stated, ”I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” As we plan for the upcoming holidays and the New Year, let’s all strive to make one another feel appreciated and grateful they are in our lives.

December - January 2021 Miami Kids Magazine

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By the American Heart Association

Kids' Physical &

Mental Health Now that the year is starting, it is time to set goals for our kids. Prioritizing healthy routines helps kids feel better today and gets them on the right track for years to come.

Tips for that will help your kid to be active: • •

Healthy Behaviors

Set small, achievable, short-term goals to re-prioritize three key areas:

•

Physical Activity • •

Preschool-age children about 3 hours per day of a variety of activities.

School-age kids and teens at least 60 minutes per day of moderate-to vigorous intensity activity

•

Be a role model for an active lifestyle.

Start moving more yourself and find ways to be active together as a family.

Provide kids with opportunities to be active. Give them active toys and games, like bikes, skateboards, roller skates, scooters, jump ropes, balls and sports equipment.

Support their participation in sports, dance and other active recreation like swimming, biking and running. Get familiar with community facilities near you, like pools, recreation centers, bike paths and parks.

Make active chore cards. Let each family member draw a card each day with a different active task that needs to be done. Cleaning up after dinner, walking

•

•

•

the dog, taking the trash out, folding laundry and unloading the dishwasher are all good ways to get your family up off the couch – and get the chores done.

Clear some space, put on some music, and take a dance break! It can reenergize a study session, lazy Sunday or game night. Let each person take a turn as DJ so everyone’s favorites get played.

Tune into fitness during TV time. Walk or jog in place or on a treadmill, lift weights, or do yoga while you watch your favorite shows. Break up a TV binge with a bit of activity between episodes. Or challenge each other to see who can do the most burpees, push-ups or jumping jacks during commercial breaks.

Shake up your family’s routine. Join your kids for a bike ride or shoot some hoops before starting on homework and chores. You’ll all feel better and think better.

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Living in a Multicultural City with many

Traditions Christmas? Hanukkah? Eid-ul-Fitr? If you as an adult are not sure what is the exact meaning of these celebrations, our kids must be more confused when they socialize with friends, and they don’t understand about other holiday traditions. Below you will find a brief explanation of some holiday traditions celebrated during many years for many people.

By Maruja Campojo HANUKKAH • or Chanukah is called “The Festival of Lights.” Jews celebrate their victory and the miracle of the menorah for eight nights. Each night they light candles in their own menorah: one candle the first night, two candles the second night, and so on. Families also offer blessings to God, exchange gifts, and eat traditional food such as latkes (potato pancakes), beef brisket, apple sauce and sour cream, challah, kugel.

‘EID-UL-FITR • Is the earlier of the two official holidays celebrated within Islam.

The religious holiday is celebrated

by Muslims worldwide because it marks the end of the month-long dawn-to-sunset fasting of Ramadan Regards,

Let’s integrate some holiday activities to our celebrations

For the whole month, everyone except small children, older adults, or adults who might get sick eat nothing between sunrise and sunset. Children join the fast when their parents decide that they are old enough. Each night of Ramadan, families have a small meal, and at the end of the month, they break the fast with a three-day festival, ‘Eid-ul-Fitr. During ‘Eid-ul-Fitr, Muslims give gifts to each other and donate to charities. Children may take a day off of school and parents may take a day off from work.

CHRISTMAS • While non-religious traditions are popular, Christmas is a religious holiday.

Some Christians mark the four weeks before December 25th by lighting candles for Advent (a time of waiting) and by doing good deeds. On Christmas Eve, Santa Claus (or St. Nicholas) brings gifts to good children. In some countries, gifts are not given until January 6th, the day celebrating the three kings’ visit.

KWANZAA • C elebrations include the lighting of seven candles, one for each day of the festival. Each candle represents one of the holiday’s seven principles: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. Families also celebrate with festive dinners, stories, and clothing, or decorations inspired by traditional African culture.

Let’s teach our children on how families celebrate in different ways this special time of the year. They will learn more about the world and to be proud of their heritage.

December - January 2021 Miami Kids Magazine

15

Take your time, 2022

is just

!

STARTING

By Coach Nick Bevilacqua

If you were able to read my last article submission to MKM, you may remember I was hiking the Rocky Mountains prior to writing.

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ell, this time, I sat down to write and for the first time in my life, I experienced “Writer’s Block.” I have heard about it; however, I have never had it happen to me. Fortunately for me, my wife and I were headed back to the mountains. This time we were headed to The Berkshires of western Massachusetts for my wife’s birthday and a seminar on anxiety. I was originally going to write about all the holiday cultures we get to experience down in South Florida; however, after being stopped hard in my mind with a block, and then witnessing the majesty of the fall color changes of the Northeastern United States, I have shifted gears to something a little more personal for some and will hit home for most.

The “Holiday” season can represent so much anxiety for people. Whether it’s about old memories, the fear of new holiday memories, lost family and friends, lost relationships, lack of money and other resources, and the saddest part of all is this list could keep going.

And for some, they suffer from multiple things on this list.

When I was a little boy, I heard things like “put your big boy pants on” and “toughen up boy” and “stop crying” and many other things that really didn’t do anything to help me cope with what I was facing. These things turn to worry as you age, as you face obstacles in your life and are not sure how to face them, or wonder why it is so hard, or a million and one other things “that you just can’t seem to get right” or “things never seem to go your way.”

Anxiety exists and worry is going to show up whether you like it or not. It’s like that one person that always shows up that you wish would not. Worry jumps in the middle of your day and says, “PAY ATTENTION TO ME” and honestly, that is exactly what you are going to do to worry, for a split second or two. Say hello, talk to it, name your worry, and accept its purpose. Learning to be a little more comfortable with your worry will allow it to settle. It will also give you a little bit more time to have rational and reasonable thoughts about a subject, instead of knee jerk reactions to it.

Finally, give yourself permission to screw up at this and give yourself plenty of time to make changes in your life. You are worth the wait aren’t you?!?!

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Gives back to the community during the

n o s a e S y a d i l Ho

By Maria Lusich

I

n light of a further strong acceleration in its business recovery in the third quarter of 2021, for the first time, BOSS recorded sales and earnings above pre-pandemic levels, thereby significantly exceeding overall market expectations. On a preliminary basis, currency-adjusted Group sales increased 40% as compared to the prior-year period. In the Americas, sales almost doubled versus the prior-year level, up 94% currency-adjusted BOSS is now working on a very special campaign in the Southeast Florida region during the Holiday season. Now, when you purchase in any of the following BOSS stores, you can donate a toy and these toys will be given to an organization named It’s 4 The Kids whose foundation chairman and cofounder is Mr. Ricky Patel. It’s 4 The Kids focuses on helping children facing unique challenges to their health and wellbeing. A seemingly straightforward mission has evolved into a multifaceted operation whose boundaries are limitless.

What makes the foundation different is that every cent of every dollar donated to the organization is contributed directly to benefit children with no funds segregated for expenses for administration. All the costs are funded directly

by Its 4 The Kids founder, Ricky Patel which provides full transparency and the peace of mind for donors to know that their funds go directly from point A to point HELP. These are the participant stores • Palm Beach Gardens • Aventura • Dadeland • Orlando • Sarasota • Brickell Additionally, BOSS at Dadeland Mall will also be hosting a charitable shopping event during the weekend of December 10th, with 10% of proceeds going to It’s 4 The Kids. Please check your local malls for more details.

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An Interview with

Morning News and Traffic Anchor

Kristin

Sanchez

TELL US ABOUT YOUR UPBRINGING, FAMILY CULTURE, AND FORMAL EDUCATION? Although South Florida truly feels like home, I’m New York grown.

A Long Islander at heart, the town I grew up in is just a short drive away from the big apple. My father, born and raised in Long Island and my mom, originally from Ecuador, couldn’t have chosen a better suburb to raise me and my sister. Our childhood summers were spent living at the beach on the island’s east end and the rest of the year’s seasons in and out of New York City.

New York just has a way of giving you that feeling of, ‘I can do anything!’ I looked up to my parents who did just that. As small business owners, they instilled in me that I can do whatever I put my mind to from a young age.

My education was very important to both of my parents. After graduating high school on Long Island, I went on to pursue my undergraduate degree at Florida Southern College in Lakeland, Florida. There I graduated with a degree in Broadcast, Print and Online Media and a double minor in Spanish and Business. As a firstgeneration college graduate, it was important to me to do the best I could in school. I finished my Bachelor of Arts degree in three years instead on the traditional four. Also, within that time, I completed two study abroad programs in the UK and Spain, held a part-time job and internship since freshman year. I love to learn and challenge myself.

Now at the age of 29, I am proud to say I am continuing to expand my education. I am currently a student at the University of Florida College of Journalism and Communication pursing my master’s degree in public relations.

HOW DID YOU INITIALLY LEARN YOU HAD A PASSION FOR JOURNALISM? From a young age I knew I wanted to be someone people could count on, look up to and trust. I loved to write and ask questions. In fact, when I was in grade school, I did a book report on how I wanted to be just like Oprah Winfrey. My mom still has my project! That’s when I knew it was time to start working toward my dream. As a little girl many of my weekends were spent with my mom driving into the city for acting lessons. From there I began to audition for commercials, movies, print work, and pageants. While I loved landing small roles throughout the years, I wasn’t fulfilling my true passion to write, inform and give a voice for others who don’t. In high school I realized I

22 Miami Kids Magazine December - January 2021

could use my skills to make a difference with a career in broadcast journalism.

DO YOU HAVE ANY FAMILY TRADITIONS THAT YOU TYPICALLY CELEBRATE DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON? There’s something about the Christmas season that makes me feel like a kid again. Beyond decorating the gingerbread house, visiting the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and seeing the Radio City Rockettes, my favorite tradition falls on Christmas Eve. When I think of Christmas Eve I smile because the holiday to me, even as a kid, meant more than opening gifts. To me, Christmas Eve is about celebrating family, being together and going to midnight mass. It’s memories and family traditions like this I plan to continue now that I have a family of my own.

HOW DID YOU MEET YOUR HUSBAND? My husband and I were set up on a blind date by no other than our younger siblings!

My sister and Brandon’s brother became friends while at undergraduate school in New York City. The two thought it would be a fun idea to set us up on a date while I was vacationing in Fort Lauderdale. Brandon, who grew up in Fort Lauderdale,

truly swept me off my feet. Our first date was on Las Olas Blvd in 2014. While my career at the time had me in Myrtle Beach, SC and then Fort Myers, finally after 4 years of long distance, South Florida became home for both of us!

TELL US ABOUT YOUR NEW ROLE AS A MOM AND HOW YOU DIVIDE YOUR TIME BETWEEN RISING EARLY FOR THE MORNING NEWS AND TAKING CARE OF PRESTON. I love being a mom! My life goals are three simple things: a fulfilling career, a loving husband, and happy kids. Preston is really a dream. The feeling of love is indescribable when I wake up in the morning and see his smiling face. I get chills just telling you this because it’s a feeling I’ve never felt before!

Everyday I have an overwhelming sense of responsibility and Selfishness. I now have a little boy who relies on me, it’s the most frightening but greatest feeling in the world!

It’s not always easy to split up time between work and Preston. I’m very fortunate to work for a company that gives about six months of maternity leave. I won’t be back on air until the end of January; however, I couldn’t stay away from all aspects of my craft. While I have been on leave, I’ve been spending my time emceeing and volunteering at many organizations around South Florida. I love what I do, and I believe that if Preston has a happy mom, he will be a happy baby.

ANY WORDS OF WISDOM FOR WORKING MOMS? Be you! That’s my best advice for working moms out there. I think so often, many moms are faced with a thing called, ‘mom guilt’.

It’s a real feeling! We feel this mom guilt if we are not spending enough time with our babies, if we’re not breastfeeding or doing things that moms are ‘supposed’ to do.

Well, I say, forget that! Moms are already the most perfect thing to their babies. I believe moms are allowed to have goals and those goals can be more that having a family. When we choose to grow a family, it doesn’t mean we have to choose between our careers and our kids. Here is a case where you can have your cake and eat it too. Yes, we will all have to make sacrifices, and yes, some sacrifices will be harder than others, but you can be a successful, loving, and motivated mama. Some days will be great, and others will be difficult, but that’s the balance of life. We all do our best and that’s more than enough for our little ones. YOU are enough, your best is enough.

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PM ENTERTAINMENT We are PM entertainment; we focus on generating great fun and unforgettable moments. We count on our impressive LED ROBOTS, characters, musicians, and a wide variety of performers. We also offer DJ’s, sound and lighting services.

Phone: 7865854444 Email: pmpmentertainment@gmail.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/pm_ent_/

I GOT TEQUEÑOS Y MÁS Now you can order delicious tequeños, handcrafted to perfection with our homemade guava dipping sauce. We create party packages for any occasion.

Customers have a choice to have them delivered in a custom-made box, they can pick colors of their choice, etc. We also sell surprise breakfast boxes which can be customized for each order with their items of preference. We add Mask/Sunglass chains.

These are add-on items or can also be purchased separately.

Contact: Susana Porto Phone: (305) 505-3194 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ igottequenos/

WHITE TIGER & DRAGON Have a kickin’ birthday with White Tiger & Dragon Martial Arts! With special birthday party packages, they can include a lesson, catering, entertainment, and much more!

Phone: (305) 505-4919 Website: https://www.miamikarateclasses. com/

MAD MONKEYS EVENTS Mad Monkeys Events is the Best Kids Entertainers and Party Planners in South Florida! We host parties from A to Z at any location throughout the whole US! From small private parties to Big City Events!

10 years in the industry of kid’s parties, more than 100 shows every month, 200+ cartoon and movie characters and exclusive costumes, 3000+ cakes eaten, 500 happy children, and unlimited smiles, energy, and laughter every month Phone: 855-226-1409 Instagram: https://instagram.com/ madmonkeysevents Facebook: Facebook@madmonkyesevents Website https://mmonkeys.com/

DIPPIN DOTS & DOC POPCORN The Dippin´Dots / Doc Popcorn experience offers a perfect fusion of deliciously warm popcorn and refreshingly cold ice cream treats. Great for any kind of event, party or celebration, your guests will love our variety of irresistible snack options: sweet, savory, warm, cold, crunchy, creamy, refreshment. It’s just the perfect choice!

Phone: (786) 878 4696 Instagram: @dippindotsdocpopcorn.miami TikTok: dippindotsdocpopcorn.mia Website: https://www.docpopcorn.com/ location-finder/westland-mall.html

gu i d e GAYLORD PALMS Treat your child to an amazing birthday at a 4-star hotel in Gaylord Palms Resort! Have them slip and slide at the water park or discover the immersive atriums!

Gaylord Palms has it all! Call 1-407-586-0000 for more information.

Website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ mcogp-gaylord-palms-resort-and-conventioncenter/overview/

sponsored by

CRAYOLA EXPERIENCE Crayola Experience Home Adventure provides video-guided, interactive activities – all from the comfort of your home.

Each kit features Crayola FUN with: • AN ENGAGING STORYLINE • A VIDEO WALKTHROUGH • ALL SUPPLIES INCLUDED Order online and we’ll ship all the Crayola goodies, directions and video links directly to your doorstep!

Seasonal kits also available while supplies last.

Website: https://www.crayolaexperience.com/ at-home-shop GYMBOREE PLAY AND MUSIC Gymboree Play and Music parties are the BEST! Choose your child’s favorite theme and we’ll create a private, personalized party experience filled with kid-friendly activities guaranteed to be 100% fun with zero clean up. Gymboree Play and Music parties are available to members and non-members alike.

Phone: 305-476-9500 (Coral Gables Location) Website: www.gymboreeclasses.com CREACIONES SHISHEALE At Creaciones Shisheale our specialty is with our custom cakes, but we do all types of desserts, piñatas, & party favors upon request!.

Phone: 786-806-2318 (WhatsApp) Email: Creacionesshisheale@gmail.com Instagram: @creacionesshisheale GLAM N’ PARTY SPA BUS The only SpaBus in the city of Miami is so pink and glam that you won’t be able to resist wanting to be in it. A unique, modern super glam and special option to celebrate! Manicure, beautiful colored ponytails, Gems, glitter, dance only, fashion show, karaoke, DYD accessories you can find here!

Facebook and Instagram: @glamnparty Phone: 305-910-3644 Website: www.Glamnparty.com

24 Miami Kids Magazine December - January 2021

REAL FOOD ACADEMY Become a professional chef on your birthday! Enjoy a tasty experience for any child’s birthday with fun hands-on cooking lessons, goodie bags, chef hats, and much more! With a fully equipped, commercial kitchen and excellent ratings, this birthday is sure to be the best for everyone.

Phone: 786-395-0355 Website: https://therealfoodacademy.com/

AMAZING PARTIES Amazing Parties offers event planning and coordination services in the party capital of the world - Miami! Our goal is to create unique events that leave a lasting impression on both you and your guests.

Our team of event specialists will work closely with you to design, plan, and execute events tailored to your specific desires, needs, and budget. Whether it is a small gathering or grand gala, our team will integrate color and texture with a sophisticated style to once-in-a-lifetime events. We will handle all of the event details, from event concept, decor, linens, furniture rentals, audiovisual, to event coordination, and entertainment.

Phone: 786-344-2966

PHILLIP & PATRICIA FROST MUSEUM OF SCIENCE Spark your young explorer’s imagination with a party at the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, where we have birthdays down to a science! The museum offers parties featuring a variety of different themes, experiences, and special encounters that will guarantee the experience of a lifetime. Virtual options are available.

Phone:305-434-9564 Email:birthday@frostscience.org Website: https://www.frostscience.org/ birthday-parties-frost-science/

MIAMI SWEET Miami Sweet is a twelve room, fully-interactive experience bringing its colossal candy creations to Aventura Mall. Designed as a love letter to Miami, visitors will take a sensory-driven trip through the city’s electric energy, year-round sunshine, and “good vibes only” lifestyle.”

Website: Miamisweet.com

DEZERLAND PARK Dezerland Park is the place to celebrate birthdays, graduations, celebrations of all types. Parties require a minimum of 10 paid guests. Our team will do all of the work, you get to enjoy all of the fun. Dezerland Park is able to tailor your event for a more memorable experience. Choose from our list of themed rooms and give your guests a party to remember. Complete your party package by adding your private space to these desirable rooms.

Phone: (786) 590-5000 Contact: miami@dezerlandpark.com Website: https://dezerlandpark.com/miami/kidteen-parties/

MAD SCIENCE OF MIAMI Celebrate your child’s special day with a Mad Science birthday party! We handle everything you need to make your child’s next party a huge success. Our diverse packages, optional add-ons, and ready-to-go Goody Bags, loaded with multiple science-themed toys, are sure to be the talk of the playground!

Phone: 786-361-2910 Email: info@madsciencemiami.com Website: https://miami.madscience.org

ISWIM ACADEMY Nothing beats a pool party to celebrate your little one’s birthday! Cooldown and have fun while our lifeguards make sure that everyone is safe in the water. Safety is our number one priority, and we work to make sure pool rules are followed. Get in touch with us to see how we can help make your family’s next birthday an unforgettable one.

Phone: (305) 456-0518 Email: info@iswimsomi.com Website: https://iswimsomi.com/

YOAN DUARTE DULCES Count on Yoan Duarte Dulces delicious treats for your upcoming family parties! These delicious dessert platters are a must-have and add a classic finishing touch to the experience.

Phone: (561) 801-6525 Instagram: @el_gato_duarte

BAKE IT ON WHEELS Jump on the bus and bake with us! From cakes, cupcakes, caramel wands, and cookies Bake It On Wheels™ is the sweetest way to wow your party guests. With our wide selection of frosting-filled party packages, fully equipped kitchen, and hands-on confectionary crew, your only job is to open your door and climb aboard! Not only do we bring the bakery to you, eliminating the chaos in your home, but there’s also no mess to clean up either. We simply roll away, leaving only magical memories and tasty treats!

Phone: 1-877-ibakeit Website: http://bakeitonwheels.com/

DUOS EVENTS We Are Geared Up and Ready to get the Party Started at Every Occasion! Event Audio & Lighting.

• Weddings • Birthdays • Corporate Events • Community & Public Affairs • Other Special Occasions Serving all South Florida Call Us Today 786407-2935 LES AILES DU DESIR Host your kid’s birthday party at Les Ailes du Désir this year! Your party will surely be an adventure when you book our private full-service circus parties! Choose two to three of the following activities: aerial silks, trapeze, contortion, tumbling/acro, hula hooping. We can even provide workshops for the parents and spectacular performance demonstrations by professional circus performers!

Website: https://laddmiami.org/birthday ANAIS NAILS + SPA At Anais nails and spa, all the birthday parties are exciting for us. We make sure to stock up on decorative stickers to add life to your nails. Our creative artists will try their best to recreate any creativity idea you have in mind. We will pamper the birthday girl and her team!

Make your appointment at: (305) 606-6748 Website: www.anaisnailspa.com CREPE MAKER Serving up non-traditional crepes filled with fresh, healthy food combinations, we’re putting a new spin on the classic Parisian treat. We are at home in a small, intimate setting or large, high-volume.

Phone: (786) 534-8585 Email: catering@crepemaker.com Website: https://www.crepemaker.com/ SUPER FIESTAS MIAMI Super Fiestas is a company that is dedicated to the manufacture and sales of handmade piñatas. We aim to deliver a piñata of excellent quality, made from scratch using incredible techniques, decorated with tissue paper and foam art, taking care of the color combination and the design that our demanding clients ask for.

Super parties’ mission is to see the happy smile of our little customers!

Phone: (954) 834-3627 Email: superfiestas.miami@gmail.con Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ superfiestasmiami

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Sponsored by

ACTIVITY GUIDE AMAZING PARTIES This Holiday season, celebrate in a magical and fun way with your family! Amazing Parties offers party packages for a small to a corporate size evets. Their team is designed to make your event look espectacular with originality and great service!

Phone: (786) 344-2966 Website: https://www.facebook.com/ amazingpartieseventsmiami/ MIAMI KIDS MAGAZINE SANTA’S WORKSHOP Enjoy a day full of entertainment, music, games, giveaways, photobooths, and real snow to create your own snowman and snowballs! Don’t miss a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. The event will be followed by the Santa’s Parade of the Elves at 2:00 pm.

Bring a new unwrapped toy in donation to Sofia’s Hope - a charity foundation fighting childhood cancer. You will receive a raffle ticket for a chance to win special prizes!

Thank you to our sponsors the City of South Miami, South Florida PBS, Health Channel, and Bakerly!

RSVP for FREE: https://www.eventbrite. com/e/173857641887 BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Neiman Marcus Coral Gables invites to you join us for Breakfast with Santa. Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast packed with holiday fun and cheer with appearances

by Santa and more in an open-air setting under a tent in our courtyard. Miami Kids Magazine will be giving away goody bags and photo opportunities with Sharkie.

Date: Saturday, December 4 and 11 | 9:00 am Location: Shops at Merrick Park, Neiman Marcus, Mariposa Level 3 Contact: 786-999-1018 Price $60 per person

32 Miami Kids Magazine December - January 2021

NORTH POLE PAJAMA PARTY AT MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY AND SCIENCE Enjoy South Florida’s favorite family tradition by wearing your pajamas or elf costumes for this festive event!

Enjoy all Museum exhibits complete with a holiday science show, test your aim at our tropical “snowball” throwing station, make-and-take your own snow globe and build your own snowman. Then, watch the beloved film on our GIANT screen!

WHEN: December 11 & 18 • 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. • Film starts at 11 a.m.

WHAT: Admission includes an invitation to see The Polar Express in the AutoNation® IMAX® Theater WHERE: Museum of Discovery and Science 401 SW 2nd Street COST: Members: $20 per person (adult or child) Non-members: $30 per person (adult or child) REGISTER: mods.org/polarpajamaparty GREATER MIAMI YOUTH SYMPHONY GMYS is fully back in person! Join us for a memorable Night of Lights extravaganza at Pinecrest Gardens!

Then, watch our culminating Winter Gala performance featuring over 200 of YOUR young musicians. Want to join our program? You still can! All levels and abilities are welcome. Contact msanchez@gmys.org to learn more!

Website: www.gmys.org BAKE IT ON WHEELS Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with Bake It On Wheels! Roll out, bake, and decorate holiday-themed sugar cookies and gingerbread cookies while sipping hot chocolate right in front of your home on our party bus. Party with us this holiday season for a limited time!

Website: http://bakeitonwheels.com/

GAYLORD PALMS A holly, jolly sleigh-full of holiday cheer is set for Gaylord Palms Resort with a host of special events and activities set to be unwrapped this Christmas season.

Featuring a brand-new, multisensory marquee Christmas experience, Mission: Save Christmas featuring Elf™– Christmas at Gaylord Palms will delight guests of all ages with original shows, musical performances, dozens of larger-than-life Christmas trees, amazing acrobatics, delicious dining, interactive experiences, and more. Christmas at Gaylord Palms begins Nov. 19, 2021, and continues through Jan. 2, 2022.

Website: http://christmasatgaylordpalms.com/

CRAYOLA EXPERIENCE Crayola Experience Home Adventure provides videoguided, interactive activities – all from the comfort of your home.

Each kit features Crayola FUN with: • AN ENGAGING STORYLINE • A VIDEO WALKTHROUGH • ALL SUPPLIES INCLUDED Order online and we’ll ship all the Crayola goodies, directions and video links directly to your doorstep!

Seasonal kits are also available while supplies last. https://www.crayolaexperience.com/at-homeshop

ORCHESTRA MIAMI Orchestra Miami presents the ultimate New Year’s Eve Celebration- an unforgettable, family-friendly, beachfront concert of Beethoven’s Symphony N. 9 (Ode to Joy), performed by Orchestra Miami. Bring the whole family to this free, outdoor event. Festivities begin at 6 PM and the fun continues to midnight with a fireworks display!

Phone: (305) 274-2103 Email: info@orchestramiami.org Website: https://www.orchestramiami.org/ odetojoy

FROST MUSEUM OF SCIENCE Winter Break from school is the perfect time to chillout with the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum ofScience!Children in grades Pre-K–5thcan safely explore the wonders of science and create friendships through two unique four-day camps from December 20–December 30.Enroll your child today!

Phone: 305-434-9564 Email: camp@frostscience.org Website: https://www.frostscience.org/ wintercamp/

THE DEERING ESTATE The Deering Estate celebrates the holidays with an exciting lineup of programs and events for the entire family to enjoy, including: Historic Holiday Décor: Vintage Florida, Historic Holidays Evening Strolls, Story-Time & (socially distanced) Photos with Santa, Holiday Bay Cruise, and Winter Camp. For more information on the Holiday Season at Deering Estate.

Website: https://deeringestate.org/events/ category/miami-holidays/

NOON YEAR’S EVE AT MODS Ring in 2022 with our annual Noon Year’s Eve celebration! Join us for a mid-day celebration with immersive activities, music, dancing, and science.

Make the rounds at our activity tables where you can make-and-take noisemakers, festive party hats for the ball drop to ring in the new year! Visit our graffiti wall and share your own New Year’s resolution.

WHEN: December 31 • 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. • Ball Drop at 12 p.m.

WHERE: Museum of Discovery and Science 401 SW 2nd Street COST: Free with Museum admission REGISTER: Please visit [mods.org/ noonyearseve]mods.org/noonyearseve

PICNIC DE LIBROS Picnic de Libros is a bilingual, family day program featuring storytelling, theatre, music, arts and crafts, dance, and picnic baskets full of books, free to keep.

The event is free and its main goal is to expose kids to the richness and variety of the cultural traditions in our diverse community.

When: Saturday December 18 from 2 to 5 pm Where: Koubek Center (2705 SW 3rd St. Miami, Fl, 33135) Free Entrance INFO: www.koubekcenter.org

DRIVE- THROUGH WINTER WONDERLAND WITH MKM AND CITY OF MIAMI Join the City of Miami and Miami Kids Magazine as we bring together the community for holiday cheer and Santa’s elves.

December 16th from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Miami City Hall. 3500 Pan American Dr. Miami Fl 33133

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H liday Gift Guide

Sponsored by

Lovepop The holidays are a time for celebration and connection. With thousands of magical designs, Lovepop’s cards, gifts, and decorations make it easy to share love with the special people in your life.

Phone: (888) 687-9589 (9AM - 9PM EST) Website: lovepop.com/holiday Hedbanz Blastoff! (Spin Master Games) Can you guess what’s on your head before 3...2...1... BLAST OFF!? Everyone’s favorite guessing game is back with a fun new Blastoff Band. Put on the band, load it with a card, and set the timer. Try to guess “What Am I” while your team gives clues – but do it quick, because your card will go FLYING when time runs out! By Spin Master Games.

MSRP $19.99, Players: 4+, Ages 6+.

Available at Target, Walmart and Amazon.

Lincoln Logs 100th Anniversary Tin Children can use these easy-to-follow instructions as a guide, or can go freestyle and create their own structures. The STEAM/STEM building concepts are appropriate for children at the preschool level.

Children’s cognitive skills will develop when they play with this toy. Playtime will enhance their creativity as they analyze where each part should go, and will give them a sense of accomplishment when they’re done.

Ages 3+, SRP $44.99, Available on Amazon Find the perfect gifts at Shops at Merrick Park Find something for everyone on your list all in one merry place at Nordstrom, Hugo Boss, Mayors and more. https://www.shopsatmerrickpark.com/

36 Miami Kids Magazine December - January 2021

BOSS BOSS touches all bases for modern-day living, from business and casual attire to evening wear, with an emphasis on beautifully tailored pieces. Timeless styles with a fresh, modernist twist are an essential part of the collection, as are luxe leisure pieces. These two sides of the BOSS collection often meet in looks that combine tailoring with a casual ease.

Phone: (305) 442-0011 Hugoboss.com Disney Sidekicks In this cooperative game, the Disney heroes have been captured and are being held captive in the castle. Travel through the gameboard as a beloved sidekick, like Tinkerbell, Lumiere or Abu. Battle villains like Gaston or Scar and rescue villagers, all while building your powers to become a hero yourself! Each Sidekick/Villain combination is unique, adding a different element to the game every time you play. By Spin Master Games.

MSRP: $29.99, Players: 2-4, Ages 8+.

Available at Target, Walmart and Amazon.

Beat The Parents Get ready to raise the stakes! In this new version of the popular kids vs. parents trivia game, everyone will have to put something on the line. First, write your wager on the included whiteboard – it can be serious (“kids will do the dishes”) or silly (“mom will cluck like a chicken”), but you’ll need to do it if your team loses! Kids & parents ask each other questions from the cards — move forward on the board for every correct answer your team gets!

Land on a challenge space and go head-to-head with the other team: you might need to race paper airplanes or say a tongue twister to win the points!

By Spin Master Games.

MSRP $15.99, Players: 2-6, Ages 6+.

Available at Target, Walmart and Amazon.

K’nex Education – Stem Explorations: Swing Ride Building Set Children can build a working swing ride with this educational building set. Each package contains 470 brightly colored pieces, including variously sized connectors, and multiple styles of rods: short, long, straight and curved.

This toy also promotes growth in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) subjects, thanks to its complex and cognitive approach to entertainment.

Ages 8+, SRP: $39.99; Available on Amazon Herd Mentality (Big Potato) It all starts with a random question (i.e. Name a fruit that’s hard to juggle). Secretly write down an answer that you think everyone else will choose (maybe Banana). Determine the most common answer in the group. If you think like the herd and your answer is in the majority, earn a cow token! If you’re the odd one out, you’re stuck with the Pink Cow. If you have the Pink Cow, you can’t win the game, no matter how many cow tokens you have. Hope that another player is the odd one out in a later round to get rid of it! Be the first to collect 8 cow tokens while avoiding the Pink Cow—yeehaw!

MSRP: $20; Age: 10+; Players: 4+; Available now on Target, Amazon and Walmart.

Disney Junior Minnie Mouse Roller-Skating Party Minnie Mouse These Minnie Mouse friends feature matching glittery helmets and can skate side-by-side, spin together, or skate in a conga line! Press the button on Minnie Mouse’s left foot to start her skating party!

Kids will love watching Minnie Mouse and Panda hold hands and skate to the upbeat song “Minnie’s Roller-Skating Dreams”.

They can even spice up their routine with 360 turns!

By Just Play; Ages 3+, SRP $39.99. Available at Walmart, Amazon and Target Treasures Await! Adventure Ship AHOY, MATEY! With two feet of play space, this ship is ready for nonstop excitement! The snap-in captain and first mate can climb aboard the ship from the folddown stairs, spin the ship’s steering wheel, keep watch from the crow’s nests, and lots more. Plus, the free-rolling vessel comes with a detachable rowboat and a treasure chest—for added adventure on the high seas!

MSRP: $59.99, Age:3-8 Available at https://www.lakeshorelearning.com.

Carry Around Robot Town It’s a super-cute robot-shaped carrying case on the outside—and an adventure-filled factory featuring 8 robot pals on the inside! With 8 different play areas, including a real-working elevator, rocking seesaw and more, this tiny town offers a world of big, futuristic fun!

MSRP: $19.99, Age:3-8 Available at https:// www.lakeshorelearning.com.

Make a Fort Build and play inside incredible forts, mazes, tunnels, and more. Get kids off screens and engaged in creative real-world play. Spend quality time building and playing with the whole family. Endless play building and playing inside really big forts. Made from a heavy duty corrugated cardboard that is strong, durable, and eco-friendly.

Available at https://www.makeafort.fun

Zip Jr. MIPS by Smith No matter where their wheels take them, the Zip Jr. bike helmet delivers enhanced angle impact protection with MIPS® in a lightweight design that kids want to wear. Our dial-adjustable VaporFit™ gets the fit right every time while the low-profile lining adds extra comfort plus plenty of vents to keep the air flowing and kids cool.

MSRP $75.00 Available at https://www. smithoptics.com

Priority Bicycles.

The START 20” is designed to introduce gears and increase bicycle skills of riders graduating from a 16” bicycle, with a grease-free Gates Carbon Drive belt in place of a traditional chain, and lightweight, rust-proof aluminum frame. Kids will ride comfortably and confidently, while parents appreciate the low maintenance features.

MSRP $375 Available at https://www. prioritybicycles.com Gladly Family’s Anthem™ All-Terrain Wagon Stroller The Anthem™ All-Terrain Wagon Stroller blends form with function. ‘Go Gladly’ in this cruiser that is stylish yet sturdy featuring rugged wheels suitable for all terrains that are still easy to maneuver when pushing or pulling.

Designed to be folded quickly, and stowed away either flat or standing up, the Anthem wagon stroller will easily become your go-to for family adventures with your little ones. Plus, the Anthem wagon stroller easily converts to recline mode creating a cozy hideaway for naps or relaxation - with the included mattress which stows away under the wagon in a protective bag when not in use.

Parents will love the premium features of the Anthem™ All-Terrain Wagon Stroller and the fact that everything below is included with the stroller, eliminating the need to spend hundreds on all the extras (all included in the price).

2-seater (MSRP: $499.99) or 4-seater (MSRP: $649.99) stroller is available for purchase at gladlyfamily.com

The Week Junior is the only magazine delivering news and current affairs directly to kids each and every week! Each issue features headlines from across the globe - always told in a way that’s engaging and ageappropriate - along with sections like “The Big Debate,” where kids get to weigh in on issues like “Should parents be friends with their kids?,” and fun features like “Ask a Zookeeper” and “Around the World.” $49.95/25 issues (a 6mo. subscription). It’s sold on TheWeekJunior.com and Amazon,

December - January 2021 Miami Kids Magazine

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The Richey Family

Bakerly team

Pumpkin Decorations

South Miami Fire fighters

Miami Kids Magazine Safe Streets Halloween Event Miami Kids Magazine and the City of South Miami Safe Streets Halloween event was full of fun and safe for all thanks to the South Miami Police Department.

We had pumpkin decorations, bounce houses, costume contests, games with MC Rossy, giveaways, and of course A LOT of candy! The Miami Lighthouse for the Blind music team had a beautiful presentation on stage. A special thanks to our sponsors Bakerly, Health Channel, and PBS for always supporting fun activities in our community!

South Miami Police Department team

Judges costume contest: Scott Richey, Tom Gantt, Kike Chavez and winners of the family costume contest

The Richey Family

Miami Kids Magazine and City of Miami Halloween Event The community and the City of Miami got together for a safe drive-through Halloween celebration on October 29th! Families were able to meet in person with City of Miami Mayor Francis Suarez and Commissioner Ken Russell. There were also many photo opportunities with fun characters walking around and the opportunity to get A LOT of candy!

PM entertainment team

Ellie Bolduc and Friendship Circle Miami Volunteers

Rabbi Yossi Har lig and Nechama Harlig

Michele Kaplan, Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, and Stacy Bolduc

Atmosphere at the 3rd Annual Heart & Soul Gala

David Evensky, Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, Nechama Harlig, and Rabbi Yossi Harlig

Nechama Harlig and Heidi Rutland with Friend ship Circle Miami Special Friends

An Enchanted Evening at Friendship Circle Miami’s 3rd Annual Heart & Soul Gala

Nechama Harlig and Claudia Potamkin

Rabbi Yossi Harlig and Florida House Representative, Vance Aloupis

Sofia’s Hope. Reason to Run 5K We had a wonderful time at Sofia’s Hope Reason to Run 5K in support of childhood cancer. Everyone had the chance to enjoy the Family event at Deering Estate overlooking Biscayne Bay with food and drink, music, photo booth, raffle, and prizes for their top fundraisers!

Friendship Circle Miami held its 3rd Annual Heart & Soul Gala on Thursday, November 4 at Fairchild Botanical Gardens. The celebratory occasion raised more than $230,000 for its “We All Belong” campaign benefitting the organization’s planned 20,000-square-foot new Friendship Campus, that will be state-of-the-art with capabilities to serve thousands of individuals and families in its full vision.