Neapolitan Family January 2020

January 2020 neafamily.com

COMPLIMENTARY

Happy New Year!

Parent Portals: Are You Clicking Too Often?

How to Find a Therapist You Trust A Parent’s Guide to Sleepovers

20 Reasons to Love Neapolitan Family in 2020!

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

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Healthy futures start here.

Pediatrics From newborns and toddlers to tweens and teens, at NCH Pediatrics we provide care for young patients of all sizes. Whether your kids need a regular checkup or more specialized care, our team is standing by with the experience and compassion to help your little ones grow. Because while they may be little, their health is a big deal.

Pediatric Emergency Department • MacDonald SeaCAREium Inpatient Unit • Pediatricians

Schedule your Kid’s Appointment with our Pediatricians Today

239-624-0570 1845 Veteran’s Park Drive, #260 • Naples NCHmd.org/Pediatrics

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NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

8th Annual Big Swamp Smoke Off Collier Fairgrounds, 731 39th Avenue NE, Naples, FL 34120

Saturday, January 4 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Beer, BBQ & The Ben Allen Band

Admission is FREE! BigSwampSmokeOff.com

Save the Date!

44th Annual Collier Fair

March 12-29 All your favorite food, rides and performances!

CollierFair.com Collier Fairgrounds NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

collierfair.com

CollierFair neafamily.com

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January 2020 TABLE OF CONTENTS

in every issue . . .

07

FROM THE PUBLISHER

08

FAMILY MOVIE PREVIEWS

10

CITY CONNECTION

11

COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS UPDATE

15

COLLIER COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

on the cover…

12 Wellfit Girls. Learn why this leadership and fitness program for teen girls continues to grow in SWFL.

by Anna Snyder 16 Parent Portal. Are you logging in too often, or not enough?

by Katherine Baron 20 20 Reasons to Love Us. Celebrate 20 years of Neapolitan Family with 20 reasons to love the magazine.

22 MOMentum Moms. Meet Jenny Lampion, who has made “cookie-ing” a household word.

by Anna Snyder 36 A Parent’s Guide to Sleepovers. How to decide when your kid is ready and how to make sure it is a success.

by Jill Morgenstern

We went to the new Baker Park for this month’s cover shoot with Kai, 8, and Kieran, 4, Williams. Kai is involved in soccer, martial arts, is a budding artist, and is learning the piano. He also loves to sing.

Kieran is an advanced reader, loves music, and is into fire trucks and trains.

Cover photo by Peggy Farren of Avant Garde Photography 239-263-7001 • naplesportraits.com

40 9 Ways to Save Money Cleaning Your Home.

These cost saving options are better for the environment and your wallet.

by Cheryl Maguire 42 Finding a Therapist You Can Trust. Tips on locating the right expert for your needs.

by Kimberly Blaker 44 Destination: Where the Wild Things are Saved. SWFL has some of the finest hospitals and sanctuaries for our local wild things, and we are allowed to visit.

by Karen T. Bartlett

2017

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NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

After more than a decade on Jaeger Road

We’re Moving

Backstage Dance Academy will have a new home in January 2020

13020 Livingston Road #8, Naples, FL 34105 South East corner of Pine Ridge and Livingston Road NEW CLASSES | NEW INSTRUCTORS | MORE SPACE BALLET | POINTE | JAZZ | LYRICAL | TAP | MODERN | LEAP & TURNS | MOMMY & ME

Call for available class times today! (239) 566-3535 NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

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Providing Care for Infants, Toddlers, Preschool, VPK & AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS K-5th GRADE 

APPLE Accredited



Gold Seal Recognized by the Department of

Children and Families 

Family Friendly Business Award Recipient



Nationally Recognized Breastfeeding Friendly Childcare Center & Gold Level Employer



Two Year FACCM Center of the Year Winner



Secure Gated Entrance, Security Cameras, and a dedicated safety trained staff



Parent workshops and trainings



Balanced curriculum of 38 objectives including extracurricular activities such as STEAM, Music Lessons, Soccer, Dance, Zumba, Spanish and Baby Sign Language



On Campus Garden, STEAM Laboratory, and Library with over 4,500 books!



Family friendly events such as Halloween Parade, Scholastic Book Fairs, Spirit Nights, Family Dinner Nights, Mothers Day Performance, Fathers Day Dance, VPK Graduation & Prom, and more!

Weekly Yoga, Music, Piano, Soccer, Dance, Zumba, Foreign Language & Sign Language Classes Monthly field trips to destinations such as the Conservancy, The Children’s Museum, the Artis Naples, Barnes and Noble, the Botanical Gardens, Naples Zoo and more!

Call today to schedule a tour! 239-261-7442 PHONE

Precious Cargo Academy 5200 Crayton Road Naples, FL 34103 WEBSITE: PreciousCargoAcademy.org

EMAIL: Leanne.badham@outlook.com

A Mission of Naples United Church of Christ 6

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Find Us on Facebook!

@PCANaples

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

from the publisher… the parenting magazine devoted to collier county

P.O. Box 110656 Naples, FL 34108 info@neafamily.com

Co-Publisher Leigh Ann Newman lanewman@neafamily.com 239-272-0529 Co-Publisher Stacy Nicolau snicolau@neafamily.com 239-370-5333 Travel Editor Karen T. Bartlett mostlykidsguides@gmail.com 239-595-9026 Feature Writer Anna Snyder Cover Photographer Peggy Farren www.naplesportraits.com Field Photographer Lisette Morales lisettemoralesart@gmail.com Editorial submissions are welcome. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all material contributed. We cannot be responsible for return of any unsolicited materials. Articles and advertisements in Neapolitan Family do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher nor does the publisher assume responsibility for statements made by our advertisers or editorial contributors. Acceptance of advertising by Neapolitan Family does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information.

We do not knowingly present any product or service that is fraudulent or misleading in nature. Neapolitan Family is available free of charge at more than 200 distribution points throughout Collier County as well as digitally at neafamily.com. Neapolitan Family is ©2020 by Neapolitan Family Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

THIS MONTH: 20 Years in 2020

Neapolitan Family first entered my life shortly after I moved to Naples in 2006. As a stay-at-home mom I was desperately looking for fun reasons to get out of the house with a toddler, and the magazine provided that information and more. A few years later, I was newly divorced and nervously starting my own survival swimming instruction business. I once again turned to Neapolitan Family for help and decided to advertise my new venture.

Even though it was a small ad, it wasn’t long before I was turning business away. In fact, I STILL get calls from people who tell me they saw my ad in Neapolitan Family, even though it hasn’t run in more than a year.

I became even more involved with the magazine a year later when I put my journalism background to work as a part-time copy editor and occasional writer. But even that wasn’t enough for me. Seven years after placing that first ad, I became co-owner and co-publisher when Stacy Nicolau and I took over the magazine from founder Andrea Breznay. Like advertising in Neapolitan Family, buying the publication was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Stacy and I love hearing stories from other parents about how the magazine has made a difference in their lives, from helping them find the right dentist or dance school to discovering kid-friendly events in the area to learning about what other parents are doing in our community.

We are celebrating in 20 years of Neapolitan Family in 2020, and you can turn to page 20 (of course) to discover 20 reasons to love the magazine in 2020.

Here’s to 20 more years!

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FAMILY MOVIES

Family Movie Previews for January operation is set. In exchange for not blowing JJ’s cover Sophie convinces him to spend time with her and teach her to be a spy.

Despite his reluctance JJ finds he is no match for Sophie’s disarming charm and wit.

JUST MERCY Rated PG-13 for thematic content including some racial epithets In theaters 1/10 Based on the bestselling book, this film presents the story of civil rights defense attorney Bryan Stevenson (Michael B. Jordan) and the case of Walter McMillian (Jamie Foxx), who was convicted and sentenced to death for a crime he did not commit. The movie also features Brie Larson, O’Shea Jackson Jr., Tim Blake Nelson, Rob Morgan, Rafe Spall, Lindsay Ayliffe, C.J. LeBlanc, and Ron Clinton Smith.

MY SPY

DOLITTLE

Rated PG-13 for action/violence and language In theaters 1/10 JJ (Dave Bautista) is a hardened CIA operative who has been demoted and finds himself at the mercy of a precocious 9-year-old girl named Sophie (Chloe Coleman) when he is sent undercover begrudgingly to surveil her family. When Sophie discovers hidden cameras in her apartment she uses her tech savviness to locate where the surveillance

Rated PG for some action, rude humor and brief language In theaters 1/17 After losing his wife seven years earlier, the eccentric Dr. John Dolittle (Robert Downey, Jr.), famed doctor and veterinarian of Queen Victoria’s England, hermits himself away behind the high walls of Dolittle Manor with only his menagerie of exotic animals for company. But when the

young queen (Jessie Buckley) falls gravely ill, a reluctant Dolittle is forced to set sail on an epic adventure to a mythical island in search of a cure. The doctor is joined on his quest by a young, self-appointed apprentice (Harry Collett), an anxious gorilla (Rami Malek), an enthusiastic but bird-brained duck (Octavia Spencer), a bickering duo of a cynical ostrich (Kumail Nanjiani) and an upbeat polar bear (John Cena), and a headstrong parrot (Emma Thompson). The film also stars Antonio Banderas, Michael Sheen, Jim Broadbent, and Carmen Laniado.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

Car Show at YMCA Benefits Project Graduation 2020

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he Greater Naples YMCA and Cool Cruisers of Southwest Florida are hosting a car show on Sunday, Jan. 26.

The event will take place at Greater Naples YMCA, 5450 YMCA Rd., Naples from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Proceeds from the car show will benefit Project Graduation, a long standing tradition that provides a safe, drug- and alcohol-free night of fun for graduating seniors in Collier County.

This event is open to the community and admission is free.

In addition to the classic cars, free activities, raffles, bounce house, and vendors will be available. Owners of both new and old cars are invited to participate. Pre-registration is $15, or $25 on the day of the show. Contact Carly Gibb at cgibb@greaternaplesymca.org or 239-963-3771 for registration information.

At Project Graduation, graduates from local high schools come together at the YMCA to enjoy everything from an all-youcan-eat buffet to laser tag to a mechanical bull, and the chance to win prizes. The event in Naples is one of the longest-standing events of its kind in the country, and has achieved 34 consecutive graduation nights in Collier County without an alcohol- or drugrelated death involving graduating seniors.

Visit greaternaplesymca.org/projectgraduation.

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

Miguel Argumosa, DMD., Erin M. Taylor, DMD, Nicole Eastham, DMD Board Certified Pediatric Dentists

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9510 Bonita Beach Rd. Ste. 101

239.333.2990

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239.322.5222

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3872 Tamiami Trail, Unit D&E

941.391.8090

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9

CITY CONNECTION PARKS DEPT.

By Laura Tichy-Smith

Go Out in January and Enjoy Naples City Parks

It is a fantastic time to take your family outside to experience some great events offered by the City of Naples Community Services Department and local organizations. soups and breads donated by local restaurants, you also pick out your own handmade pottery bowl to take home as a souvenir. Tickets are $20 each at the gate. Empty Bowls runs 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 25. Call 239-591-8848 or visit emptybowlsnaples.com. (755 Eighth Ave. S., Naples) Free Tuesday Morning Nature Talk Series

Empty Bowls Fills Local Food Bank While you are downtown for the free chalk art festival on Fifth Avenue, you can help Harry Chapin Food Bank by grabbing a delicious lunch at the Empty Bowls Naples event in Cambier Park.

Not only do you get to enjoy gourmet

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Bring your children and learn together how nature can flourish in urban and suburban areas, with the proper care.

The Naples Preserve continues its tradition of a free nature talk series featuring guest speakers from natural areas around Southwest Florida. The presentations will inform and entertain both adults and children over the age of 7. All talks take place at 10 a.m. on Tuesdays. January schedule: Jan. 7, “From Big Cypress to Borneo: Sister Parks Half a World Away,” by Lisa Andrews of Big Cypress National Preserve; Jan. 14, “The Southwest Florida Turtle Project,” by Professor Jordan Donini of Florida SouthWestern

State College; Jan. 21, “Sanibel Island, Preservation in Paradise,” by historian Marya Repko; Jan. 28, “Florida’s Forgotten Wading Bird,” by Anne Mauro of Rookery Bay Reserve. Call 239-2614290. (1690 Tamiami Tr. N., at the corner of US 41 & Fleischmann Blvd.)

Outdoor Movie Night Come enjoy the fun of outdoor movie nights in the park. Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy a free movie in Cambier Park shown on a two-story inflatable screen starting at 8 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 10. Call 239-213-3058. (755 Eighth Ave. S., Naples) Free Concerts at the Bandshell Enjoy free concerts in Cambier Park at 2 p.m. every Sunday in January. The concert schedule for January: Naples Dixieland Jazz Society on Jan. 5; Gulfcoast Big Band on Jan. 12; Naples Concert Band on Jan. 19; and Naples Big Band on Jan. 26. Call 239-213-3058. (755 Eighth Ave. S., Naples)

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

By Jennifer Kupiec

Consider a Career Change to Teaching With CCPS

W

ith the New Year upon us, friends and family members are talking about resolutions. Whether it’s less screen time, eating healthier, or adding exercise into daily routines, change is all around. Some may even be considering a new career. Have you, or someone you know, ever thought about a career in teaching? If so, you’ll want to learn more about the district’s Teach 4 Collier program.

Teach 4 Collier is a Collier County Public Schools (CCPS) Grow Your Own initiative aimed at recruiting career changers or individuals with a four-year degree interested in becoming teaching professionals. Teach 4 Collier’s community-based meeting is set up as a comprehensive review to gain a better understanding of the teaching profession.

Why consider becoming a teacher?

• You’ll always be in demand.

• Spending time with your children is a priority.

• You aspire to positively impact the future of America.

• Teaching is a decades-long career filled with joy and satisfaction.

• Spring, summer, fall, and winter work breaks sound incredible!

The Teach 4 Collier program starts with a highlight of CCPS, touching on the advantages of working for the district. For example, did you know CCPS is one of the last public school systems in Florida that still pays 100% of an employee’s premium for health insurance? You get 100% premium paid life insurance equal to your salary amount, too. (The current starting salary for a new CCPS teacher is $43,760.) And don’t forget, CCPS contributes 7.52% toward your retirement, while you contribute 3%.

The program then shifts gears into the certification process, covering in depth the process for obtaining teaching certification as a non-education major. Any person with a four-year degree is eligible

for Florida teaching certification in any area. You’ll need to be able to access your college/university transcripts, apply for certification with the Florida Department of Education, and pass a subject-area examination in the subject of your choosing. (In lieu of passing a subject-area exam, some individuals with a four-year degree may qualify for temporary certification based on their areas of study.)

The next Teach 4 Collier event is scheduled for Monday, Feb. 3 from 5-7 p.m. at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Administrative Center, 5775 Osceola Tr., Naples. All community careerchangers are encouraged to attend. Registration is not required. For more information, contact Daryl Scott at scottd6@collierschools. com.

Who knows? This time next year you may be looking out at the smiling faces of your students!

www.reedorthodonticsnaples.com

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

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YOUR COMMUNITY

By Anna Snyder

WellFit Girls

How this leadership and physical fitness program empowers young women on the road to success

W

ith all of the pressures facing young women today, and all of the statistics about the void of women in corporate and government leadership positions, one nonprofit in Southwest Florida is systematically seeking change.

Based in Naples, Wellfit Girls provides comprehensive leadership and mentorship programs for young women in middle and high school, culminating in physically demanding wilderness trips. Coming from a variety of backgrounds, many of these young women have overcome significant hardship in their short years, and they all have defined visions for what they want to accomplish with their lives.

Wellfit Girls was founded by Jill Wheeler in 2014. Wheeler came to Naples in 2006, and after helping to build the Naples International Film Festival, she decided to make a female-focused film featuring girls overcoming obstacles, connecting with nature, and learning to lead. “The girls would train to climb actual mountains during the program and also prepare for all of life’s mountains and valleys,” Wheeler explained. “Southwest Florida didn’t offer any immersive leadership and outdoor programs like this. So, what started as a pilot program and a film project evolved into year-round programming for girls aged 1219.” Wellfit also started offering a summer camp last year.

Now entering its seventh year, Wellfit is able to look to its alumni to see what the program has accomplished.

“We measure success based on what alumni and parents say about the program, and based on what alumni are currently doing with their lives,” said Colby Robertson, director of Wellfit Girls. “We have alumni setting and attaining ambitious career goals, and now working locally in finance, marketing, wellness, and nonprofit fields. Each Wellfit Girl has a unique journey; we 12

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Above, top: Wellfit Girls participants work out during a weekly meeting. Above, L-R: Brooke Jaffe, Stevie Curcio, and Morgan Bailey on their Wellfit Girls wilderness trip.

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

empower them to see themselves as unique, strong, confident individuals. Learning how to work out with others, incorporating fitness into daily life, and encouraging each other are essential components in fighting off isolation and building selfconfidence.”

Wheeler has a vision of exponential growth for the organization. “We started with 11 high school girls in Naples in 2014. We are now offering three different programs for middle school through first year of college in Collier and Lee Counties.

I created an instructors training manual, facilitator’s guidebook, and workbook in order to expand across the country within five years. We want to collaborate with schools and other nonprofits to enhance already existing programs interested in developing youth leadership,” she said.

“We love to say: ‘once a Wellfit Girl, always a Wellfit Girl.’

I want program participants to know they belong to something bigger than themselves. As we nurture a sense of belonging and honor their unique gifts, the girls understand their contribution matters greatly,” said Wheeler.

Wellfit Girls alumni and a current participant talked to Neapolitan Family about their Wellfit experience.

Rachel Newman, current participant How did you find out about the program? What prompted you to apply? I found out about the program through my mom during 6th grade. After hearing about the amazing expeditions they went on and what a unique experience it would be, I decided that I wanted to apply as soon as I was old enough.

What do you want to get out of the program? I hope to gain leadership skills and grow in confidence. I want to improve my mental, physical, and emotional well-being by overcoming challenging physical obstacles. Additionally, I want to develop a positive mindset and attitude. Sometimes I struggle with expressing my ideas, being shy, and lacking confidence, but I think this program will definitely teach me how I can approach situations more confidently.

What do you enjoy most about Wellfit? I especially enjoy our directors. Our fitness director, Kelly Clark, is a great motivator and comes up with exercises that are challenging for us in preparing us for our expedition in March. Our program director, Brooke Spencer, encourages all of us to remain positive and work hard – both inside and outside of our meetings.

What similarities and differences do you see amongst program participants? This program includes eighth and ninth graders. Some of us struggle more with the mentality of approaching challenges, whereas others thrive at being self-motivated and facing the challenges head on. All of us desire to grow individually and as a group over the course of preparing for the expedition.

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Casandria Emmerich, alumna Tell us about yourself. I completed the WellFit Girls program in 2015, and graduated from Palm Acres Charter High School in Lehigh Acres in 2016. After graduation, I got my yoga teacher certification. During high school, I was in a performing arts program loved the opportunity to sing and dance on stage.

Continued on page 14

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

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ingful relationships. I especially grew through the physical and emotional challenges of the wilderness trip – it was very difficult for me. The trip showed me that if I can do something like that, I can do anything I want in life.

What’s next for you in terms of education and career?

Honestly, I don’t know. I plan to finish college – I dream about being a travel journalist, and I’ve considered pursuing a career as a flight attendant or tour manager. I’ve learned that life never goes as planned.

Leader-in-training Kendall Klein encourages Wellfit Girls participants during a workout.

Continued from page 13

What prompted you to apply for the program? At the time, Wellfit Girls met at the House of Gaia, which was founded by a friend of our family – Lulu Carter. Lulu recommended that I apply for the program.

How did you grow as a result of Wellfit? The program included physical fitness, and because it was five months long, it gave me time to grow into healthy habits. The weekly group exercise translated into daily healthy habits during the other days of the week. I began to run every day, discovered some fun exercise videos on YouTube, drank a ton of water – and I didn’t stop even after I completed the program.

What were your favorite and most challenging aspects of the program? I was raised by a single mom, and we spent many years in poverty. I didn’t have the luxury of participating in sports or after-school programs. Having a fitness trainer, and meeting an amazing community of fitness and yoga instructors through WellFit Girls is something that I wouldn’t have otherwise experienced. I am so grateful every day for the fitness aspect of the program.

What are your plans for the future? I desire to advocate for clean cosmetics and overall health and wellness. I plan to become a personal trainer and a nutritionist.

Zya Crawford, alumna Tell us about yourself. I grew up in Georgia and moved to Southwest Florida in the summer of 2016 with my mom and sister. I’m close with my aunt, who lives nearby also. I completed one year of college, and I’m currently taking a few months off.

How did you hear about Wellfit Girls? I was seeing a psychologist who told me about the program. When she described the program, it sounded too good to be true. I love to travel, and I wanted to pursue leadership and self-improvement. Additionally, I wanted to get to know other girls my own age, as I had just moved to the area.

How did you grow through Wellfit Girls? I gained mean14

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Asheley Gelin, alumna Tell us about yourself and how you discovered Wellfit Girls. I’m a senior in high school, but I am dually enrolled at Lely High School and Florida SouthWestern State College. I’ll graduate in the spring with 30 hours of college credit. I came to Miami from Haiti when I was very young with my mom and younger twin brothers, and we moved to Naples when I was in fifth grade. I’ve overcome some significant adversity in my life, and as I grew up, I began to write poetry. I would enter writing competitions or any contests I could find in order to earn money, and I found a passion and a gift for poetry. It was a way for me to process my experiences, and I also use it as a platform to be a voice for others.

I’m very adventurous, and I participated in an Outward Bound program. Knowing this, a friend of mine told me about the Wellfit Girls program. I applied for the program, and I also applied for the Jane Waltzer Scholarship, which involved a separate application. I’m so glad I applied – the program was invaluable for me.

What did you gain through the program? I learned a lot about healthy conflict resolution. I consider myself a nice, talkative person, but I am short tempered. Before [Wellfit], whenever I had a conflict, I would attack. I never considered others’ perspectives. This caused rifts in my relationships – even my relationship with my mom. I would get in trouble with teachers, administrators, and classmates. Through Wellfit Girls, I learned to first let others speak and seek to understand their side. I even went through one-on-one counseling with my mom, which was so helpful.

I was already relatively physically fit before entering the program, but I had a hard time eating healthy. I learned to balance my diet and make more healthy choices. My mindset shifted, and I discovered that what I eat dictates how I act and how I feel.

What are your plans for the future plans? I want to go to college up north! I’m ready for a change, and I’m in the process of applying to a variety of schools. Where I go will depend on the financials and scholarships I receive. I am planning to pursue business management and bio-medical engineering. I would like to eventually come back to South Florida to do some sort of biotech start-up; I want to be an entrepreneur. But, for now, the north is calling to me!

Would you encourage others to participate in Wellfit Girls? Every girl needs this program – no matter what and regardless of their fitness level. People come to Wellfit Girls for all different purposes, for all different reasons. It’s the type of program that meets a variety of needs.

For more information visit wellfitgirls.org.

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

COLLIER COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

By Kristine Gill

No More Warnings for Cellphone Use in School and Work Zones

C

ollier County deputies are now enforcing a law that went into effect in October, banning drivers from handling their phones while driving through school and work zones throughout the state of Florida.

The law is part of a series of laws that Gov. Rick DeSantis signed last year, making texting while driving a primary offense in the state of Florida. The stipulations regarding school and work zones went into effect in October, but our deputies have been handing out only warnings up until now, trying to familiarize drivers with the new law.

But as of Jan. 1, 2020, a deputy can stop you if you are seen simply holding your phone in a school zone or work zone as you drive. Citations for this infraction are more

costly than those issued for texting while driving outside of a school or work zone.

While the law pertains only to school and work zones, we encourage you form the habit of not holding your phone at

any time while driving. Instead, switch to hands-free methods of communication if you must take a phone call.

During our first detail warning motorists of the new law last year, deputies conducted 30 traffic stops and issued a total of 10 warnings for use of a phone in a school zone.

Under the texting and driving law, phones still can be used for calls and navigation outside of a school zone, as well as to read emergency messages such as weather alerts.

If you are concerned about your teen texting while driving or handling a phone in a school or work zone, enroll them in the CCSO’s Teen Driving Academy.

Visit colliersheriff.org for additional information.

Dive into the world of Wild Kratts® to explore the seashore, shallow waters and the deep sea!

JANUARY 18 - May 3, 2020

A cooperative effort funded by the Collier County Tourist Development Tax

15080 Livingston Rd. Naples, FL 34109 239.514.0084 • cmon.org

Wild Kratts® © 2019 Kratt Brothers Company Ltd. / 9 Story Media Group Inc. Wild Kratts® and Creature Power® and associated characters, trademarks, and design elements are owned by Kratt Brothers Company Ltd. Licensed by Kratt Brothers Company Ltd. All Rights Reserved.

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

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PARENTING By Katherine Baron

Parent Portal:

Are You Logging in Too Often?

A

n everyday concern for parents is how their child is doing in school. Parents looks for ways to help their kids keep their grades up, stay on top of assignments, and set goals for themselves. When a tool is available to facilitate these challenges, it can be essential to their child’s growth and success in school.

When our kids are in middle and high school, parent involvement in school seems to diminish. It’s not as easy to reach out to teachers, principals, and guidance counselors as it was during the elementary years. With the larger number of students enrolled, there is less time for staff and faculty to respond quickly to each parent’s questions and emails. To top it off, kids don’t want to talk about their schoolwork as much during their adolescent years, and they often take on the responsibility of communicating with teachers and keeping tabs on their grades. Parents might feel like they 16

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have less access to information compared to their child’s elementary years. The quest to know your child’s grades and assignments becomes more difficult, but we no longer need to wait until report cards or interims come out.

Many schools now have parent portals. Parents can track their child’s grades and assignments online. The schools use it to boost student performance by increasing parental awareness. Parents say it eases the stress of trying to find out how their child is doing throughout the year.

Reaching out to local parents, I was surprised to find that most moms I spoke with use the portal, especially since I’m not an avid user of it. I know my daughter accesses it frequently. She checks to see if a grade has been entered or what her course grade looks like at any given time. She uses it as a guide to stay aligned with where NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

she wants to be. Because of the volume of grades teachers enter for all their students, she’s even found a grade entered incorrectly more than a few times and was able to bring it to the teacher’s attention before it was permanently recorded. That alone was worth the time she’s spent checking.

I talked with teachers, parents, principals, guidance counselors, and students regarding their feelings about the portal. Almost all of them (except students) suggested it was a delicate topic. Some felt as if they were stalking the student by checking it more than they cared to admit. Others said they were relieved to have the ability to engage their children and have a conversation to help them with their assignments and grades. They hoped to prevent a grade dropping or catch a missed assignment. A common thread was some parents wouldn’t use it as much with one child as they would with another, since one needed more intervention from a parent to follow through on assignments and failing grades. Some parents even dared to admit they used the portal information to determine their child’s social activities for the weekend ahead.

I spoke to teachers who use it for their own children. They stated it was important to check the portal. They frequently receive phone calls and emails from parents wondering why their child had a failing grade on their report card. Teachers felt strongly that if those parents had regularly used the portal, they would have been informed and could have helped their child improve before the end of the quarter. One teacher also stated she loved hearing how utilized it is by both parents and students.

There are many critics of the parent portal. They suggest it often is used for helicopter-style parenting and that some parents

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

Set dates within each month when you and your child can sit down and visit the portal together.

Discuss the things you see, including both good and bad news. monitor their children’s grades too often. They say it allows the parent too much control over something the student should be responsible for, and having the constant reminders from parents won’t encourage independent habits.

“Online grading networks and parental micromanage can undermine a student’s trust, responsibility, and motivation,” said Jessica Lahey, educator and author of The Gift of Failure.

According to Lahey, schools that establish limits on parental access and provide parents with training on using the portal in multiple languages report the most benefits from using parent portals.

Continued on page 18

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Continued from page 17

Some schools found it helpful to limit parents to checking the portal twice each semester, or designated specific days or weeks when parents could access their child’s grades.

Weighing the options If you’re on the fence about the parent portal, or find it has becoming a bit of an obsession, here are some pros and cons to consider: Pros • It details the student’s schedule, teachers’ names, and courses for the current semester.

• It helps parents stay up to date on their child’s absences and tardiness.

• Both parent and child can stay updated on grades and assignments.

• Formal test scores (state testing, etc.) are all in one place.

• Teachers can communicate grades to parents through the portal.

• Parents can check to see if their child is having trouble with schoolwork, and immediately step in to help them stay on task through the challenging course or assignment. (For instance, not understanding something in math usually will spiral out of control as the lessons move forward.)

The students I talked to like the portal. They find out grades earlier and are made aware of any missing assignments.

Cons • Day-to-day updates seemingly overstep your child’s privacy.

If they know Mom or Dad are watching everything, it may deplete their confidence and lead to frustration with their parents.

There’s a time and place to discuss your child’s schoolwork, but not necessarily every day.

• We aren’t letting our children experience the failure they’ve created and the ability to fix it themselves. When we jump in to save them each time, they aren’t forming habits to resolve problems on their own.

• Critics say portals can stress out parents and create children who are irresponsible and dependent on their parents to keep them on track.

• Checking stats daily can place parent focus more on grades than on their child’s long-term success habits and satisfaction.

Tips for using the parent portal With so many relatable pros and cons being considered, here are eight tips to keep in mind when using your parent portal: 1. Make sure to utilize it for other things as well. You can find college research information, scholarship program listings, state testing scores, schedules, and other important topics on the portal.

2. If your child has a problem with attendance and tardiness, the portal helps you to monitor whether your child is at school and on time.

3. Keep an open discussion about your student’s grades. Use the portal to help your child with their studies. (Why so many tardies? Why is your grade so low? I’m sorry you were so close to get18

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NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

ting that “A” and didn’t get one. Let’s think about extra credit this coming quarter to help.)

4. Check only occasionally.

5. Make sure there isn’t stress, worry, or frustration involved for yourself or your child. That’s not the point of parent portals.

If you are a portal-supporting parent, set dates within each month when you and your child can sit down and visit the portal together.

Discuss the things you see, including both good and bad news.

6. Stay off your child’s back about grades. Let them know you trust them to be on top of their grades. We want them to know we can’t always do everything for them and it’s okay to learn the hard way. Experiencing the independence now will give them the tools the need to perform and succeed at college or at a job.

7. Let your student see their grade before you do. Aim for a respectful conversation when discussing the grade with them.

8. Think of portals like our phones. They are always going to be available to us. It’s up to each of us to limit the use, schedule the appropriate time, and use it to our benefit, not to our dismay. The portal is a nonoffensive tool that benefits our children, not an invitation to constantly monitor their grades. Even though it’s called a “parent” portal, remind your kids that it is for their benefit.

Avoid micromanaging your kids As adults, some of our days are better than others, and it’s the same way with our kids. If their grades dip a little, most students know it and will be anxious to bring them back up. Having a micromanaging parent waiting at home wanting to know “why the bad grade?!” adds to their anxiety.

Checking stats daily can place parent focus more on grades than on the child’s long-term success habits and satisfaction

Letting your child find the tools to help pull themselves back up again helps them learn to do the same in other life situations.

Allowing the “struggle to be real” helps them build their resilience and solve their own dilemmas, without having to answer for it each time. And whether they decide to reach out to their teacher or to us, they won’t hesitate if we’ve kept the conversations about their grades respectful and engaging.

The parent portal is there to help us raise bright, independent, and knowledgeable children. Using it effectively supports the goal we have of helping our children be happy and successful.

KATHERINE BARON is a mom of two, a preschool teacher at Vanderbilt Learning Center, a freelance writer, and author. She founded the Back to Being a Woman online site to inspire women to rise above their challenges. You can find her at backtobeingawoman.com.

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Life with PKU During the Holiday Season: One Woman’s Journey

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ne of the first unpleasant experiences newborns suffer the belled for a period of time, which is all too common, from what I day after they are born is the heel sticks for blood to test have learned from my fellow “PKU-ers.” for several diseases.

Later on, in my college years, Gabe (my now husband) enThis is how Jennifer Mazorra, 36, of Naples was diagnosed couraged me to get control of my diet so I could operate at my with phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare brain-threatening genetic best. Even when I started the drug study, I had only moderate disease. PKU prohibits the body from breaking down an amino control of the diet, but was still able to function at a high level. acid (Phe) found in all How have you exnatural protein and, if not panded your diet now managed, can lead to neuthat your body can rological damage and inbreak down Phe? The tellectual impairment. Bediet is still a learning procause of the risks and the cess for me. I was telling fact that the diagnosis rea friend yesterday that I quires strict adherence to still have to work to una protein-free diet, Jenniravel my ways of thinkfer not only had to avoid ing about food; I am still meat, fish, eggs, nuts, and changing my relationship dairy her entire life, but with food. I love to cook, she also had to avoid havand now, I’m able to eat ing her own child. whole, nutritious foods.

In 2014, Jennifer Our family eats a primarstarted a clinical trial for ily plant-based diet. It has Palynziq (a drug that was been a joy to incorporate approved by the FDA this foods like kale, oatmeal, year). The treatment has nuts and nut butters, all been a success, and her the vegetables I want, body is now able to break and grains, all of which I down Phe, allowing her to wasn’t able to do before. safely eat food containing Above: Jennifer and Gabe Mazorra with their son, Sebastian.

I’m able to experiment protein and get pregnant. Photo by Stacy Mahlon with new recipes! I have This year, her son to keep adjusting to conSebastian (who turned one in September) will be experiencing sider healthy protein sources, and I continue to work on reducing solid holiday foods for the first time, and will share with his mom sugar intake. As a child, my mom would feed me fruit roll ups and all of the traditional holiday foods she had to avoid as a child juice before a meal to fill me up (these are Phe-free foods) so that growing up with PKU. I wouldn’t be hungry, and still stay in my allotted 300 mg of Phe Jennifer shared her unique story with Neapolitan Family. per day. I also still experience guilt when eating high-Phe foods.

Tell us about your experience growing up with PKU. I am working on erasing those ideas of “cheating,” as well as the Growing up with PKU definitely had its ups and downs. In my habits I formed growing up. younger, school-aged years, it didn’t seem like a big deal. I really Describe your experience while pregnant. Were you able didn’t know any differently. In those early years, the stress and to fulfill various cravings during your pregnancy? Pregnancy burden fell mostly to my parents. The medical foods and formulas was by far the most challenging thing I have ever done, though I were very expensive, and the diet was incredibly restrictive. My did not experience any cravings for food. I was very ill and naumom felt immense pressure knowing that every morsel of food seous the whole time. My diet was so rigorous, and I was anxious that went into my mouth would ultimately impact my cognitive most of the time about the well-being of my baby based on what function, emotional function, and IQ. That’s a lot of pressure for I was consuming. a mom.

Throughout my early years, I stuck to a very rigid diet. HowI became acutely aware of PKU and its limitations during ever, I never had levels [of Phe] in the most acceptable 2-6 range. birthday parties, holidays, and other celebrations that often center Because of this, I was skeptical I could achieve low levels in pregaround food. The biggest challenges were in high school. I renancy. The latest research has shown that PKU women should

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NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2018

20 Reasons to Love

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1. Owned and published by local moms.

Co-publishers Leigh Ann Newman and Stacy Nicolau both are working and raising kids in Naples.

7. Sponsorships. We are passionate about supporting nonprofit groups, from Wellfit Girls to local schools to Collier Child Care Resources.

2. Local cover kids. We run a cover contest each year to find our cover models, who all live in SWFL.

8. Supports small businesses. Where else can you advertise in print for as little as $55 a month and directly reach the mom market in Southwest Florida?

3. MOMentum Moms. Be inspired by local moms making our community a better place while raising families.

2019 Winter

4. Award-winning articles by local writers. Our freelance writers have captured national awards with articles about Southwest Florida families.

Activities Guide

5. Birthday party directory. Forget Google – check out our list of businesses providing fun and unforgettable birthday parties in the July issue.

6. Education directory. Find the best preschools, private schools, tutors, and more every February.

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CCPS ACTIVITIES GUIDE • WINTER 2019

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9. Free/easy to find. Pick up a copy for free at more than 200 locations.

10. Our advertisers. These local businesses keep the lights on here at Neapolitan Family. So let them know when you visit that you saw their ad in the magazine.

We couldn’t do what we do without them.

11. Community news. We dedicate pages each month to news about local businesses and families. Send us news about your organization, school, or family.

12. Summer camp guide. We dedicate our April issue to helping you find the right camp

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12 Days of Holiday Giving Sweepstakes Neapolitan Family presents our 12 Days of Holiday Giving Sweepstakes. Enter to win one of these fantastic prizes every day starting December 5 on neafamily.com!

Two tickets (includes dinner) to The Sound of Music playing at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre June 25-August 8, 2020. Tickets are not valid on Friday or Saturday evenings.

Value $125

Family Four Pack: two adult and two children’s tickets.

Value $75

One free week of Artscool summer camp (AM or PM session, either June 22-26 or July 27-31), plus 2 Holiday Youth Art classes on December 23.

One Year Play Membership.

Allows 2 parents and up to 6 dependent children within the household under the age of 18 to visit the museum for free.

Value $135

Value $175

B L A C K B U R N

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Four tickets to The Naples Players production of Bye Bye Birdie, the classic musical comedy beHoliday loved by everyPerformance generation! Friday, March 6, 2020, Of at 8 p.m. (may opt instead for Sensory Performance on March 31, 2020).

Sensory-Friendly One year Family Membership to Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center. Includes free admission as well as other discounts.

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Value $160

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$50 gift certificate for Twinkle Twinkle Little Store.

Value $50

Value $95

$100 gift card good for any service provided by Fetch! Pet Care Collier County (pet sitting, dog walking, home services, special needs animal care).

Value $100

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020 SPONSORED BY:

December 17 | 7:30 p.m.

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One month of martial arts classes for kids ages 3 and up. This prize is for new students only, and must be redeemed within 6 months of winning.

Value $150

NEW FRAME PHOTOGRAPHY

$20/Adults | $10/Student & Educator Our Sensory-Friendly performances at TNP are The for Ultimate Experience created kids andBoudoir adults with special needs that require a less stimulating sensory We only • Complementary consultexperience. via phone fill the theatre to 50% capacity, turn the volume down, or in-person keep the lights up a bit and remove any additional •distracting Professional hair &stimulating makeup details. or sensory

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call ourchanges box office for •Please Unlimited outfit sensory-friendly tickets: 239.263.7990

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Value $595

SHOOTOUT Four Brewhouse Tickets at the QBE Shootout at Tiburon. Enjoy the golf tournament with 24 of the world’s best golfers, hosted by Greg Norman, from an elevated hospitality suite featuring complimentary beer, wine, and food.

Value $400

The Naples Card Kids $50 gift card.

Good at participating retailers (see page 17).

Value $50 neafamily.com

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August 2018 neafamily.com

COMPLIMENTARY

Back to School Issue!

Help With Homework Study Abroad

School Supply Drives

Tracking Teens

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Hurricane Prep

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Where to Chill

NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2018

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Neapolitan Family in 2020 17. Arts directory. Pick up the September issue to check out our guide to dance schools, music lessons, acting classes, and more.

for your children, and providing advice on how to get them – and yourself – ready for the best summer ever.

13. Calendar. We offer the most complete and comprehensive family-friendly calendar in SWFL, both on our website and in the magazine. You also can sign up to receive a weekly email of the best events.

18. Travel articles. Naples-based travel writer Karen T. Bartlett is a local treasure.

She not only writes informative and entertaining articles on travel destinations both in Florida and around the world, but also writes travel books on SWFL specifically designed for kids.

14. Back to School Expo. Get the information you need to start the new school year off right at our biggest event of the year every August. More than 60 vendors will be at the Greater Naples YMCA in 2020, along with great (indoor!) family entertainment.

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19. Activities Guide. We publish the Collier County Public Schools Activities Guide three times a year. The guide offers a list of just about every after-school activity for school-aged kids in Southwest Florida.

15. Contests. 2020 is the year for contests! Win big by checking out our Facebook page and website for your chance to enter.

20. Fall Festival Guide. October is the month for festivals in Southwest Florida.

Pick up a copy of the magazine or check out our social media for your chance to download a free PDF.

16. Parenting articles. Get advice from both local and national experts.

Dalton Discovery Center Live Animal Programs Sapapkie Wildlife Exhibit Hall Little Explorer Play Zone von Arx Wildlife Hospital Viewing Pavilion Electric Boat Tours Kayak Rentals & Guided Tours Wildlife Hospital Nursery Viewing Nature Store

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Visit the Nature Center for free all year with your Annual Conservancy Membersh

1495 Smith Preserve Way I Naples, FL 34102 I 239.262.0304 I www.conservancy.o

December 1221

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monday

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10:00 a.m. Rudolph’s Reindeer Games Day. Meet Santa’s real reindeer and join Rudolph for some reindeer games. Face painting, cinnamon slime, crafts, games, and more. Alyssa’s Animal Sanctuary, Six L’s Farm Rd., Naples. Visit alyssasanimalsanctuary. com or call 239-304-6412.

4:00 p.m. Winter Holiday Craft. Create your own winter holiday snow globe or miniature snow scene.

Grades 3-5. Registration required. South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check collierlibrary.org.

1:00 p.m. The Elves and the Shoemaker. An irresistible musical adaptation of the popular children’s story. $19 includes lunch and show. Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. Call 239-278-4422 or check broadwaypalm.com.

6:30 p.m. Frozen Jr. Presented by KidzAct. Also Dec. 7 at noon and 4 p.m. and Dec. 8 at 6:30 p.m. $20 for adults, $10 for students. The Naples Players, Sugden Theater, 701 5th Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-263-7990 or check NaplesPlayers.org.

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15 4:00 p.m. Chanukah Winter Wonderland.

The entire community is welcome to this free event.

Bring your mittens and come play in real snow.

Giant ice menorah, rides, games, and crafts for all ages. Cambier Park, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. Check chabadnaples.com.

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6:00 p.m. Night Lights in the Garden. A tropical winter wonderland.

Live musical performances, family activities, and festive sweets and treats. Naples Botanical Gardens, 4820 Bayshore Dr., Naples. Call 239-643-7275 or check naplesgarden.org.

6:00 p.m. Naples Christmas Parade. The parade starts at the corner of Broad Avenue South and Third Street South, and ends at City Hall. Don’t miss the special appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus. 5th Avenue South, Naples.

Check naplesgov.com.

10:30 a.m. Cookies with Santa. Enjoy a Christmas story, eat cookies, take pictures, and make fun crafts.

All ages. Naples Regional Library, 650 Central Ave., Naples. Call 239-252-5135 or visit collierlibrary.org.

10:00 a.m. My Favorite Things Holiday Tea. Get in the holiday spirit as storytellers tell tales about their favorite things while you enjoy a traditional English tea. Brambles English Tea Room, 340 5th Ave. S., #102, Naples. Call 239-262-7894 or check bramblestearoomnaples. com.

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10 7:30 p.m. She Loves Me Sensory-Friendly Holiday Performance. For kids and adults requiring a less stimulating sensory experience. $20 for adults, $10 for students and educators.

The Naples Players, 701 5th Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-263-7990 or check NaplesPlayers.org.

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5:00 p.m. Community Wide Chanukah Celebration. Free admission.

Menorah lighting, kids’ crafts, balloon twisting, face painting, games, and more. Listen to the Naples Klezmer Revival Band.

Mercato, Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-263-4205 or check cdn.fedweb.org.

3:00 p.m. Christmas Eve Services. Celebrations start with crafts, Christmas goodies, and snow. Family service at 4 p.m. Candlelight service at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., and candlelight service with communion at 10 p.m. Naples United Church of Christ, 5200 Crayton Rd., Naples.

Call 239-261-5469 or visit naplesucc.org.

9:00 a.m. Girls Softball Winter Clinic. Offering specific skill instruction for pitchers and catchers as well as hitting and defense.

Cambier Park softball field, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples.

Check ngsll.org.

7:00 p.m. New Year’s Eve Fireworks. Find a spot on any of Naples’ beaches for the annual New Year’s Eve fireworks, blasting off from Naples Pier. Naples Pier, 25 12th Ave. S., Naples.

Check naplesgov.com.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

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thursday

5:00 p.m. Winterlude: Tree Lighting Ceremony & Festival. Come out for a night of holiday fun including the world’s tallest elf, face painters, music, dance performances, and free hot cocoa and candy canes.

Mercato, 9132 Strada Pl., Naples. Call 239-254-1080 or check mercatoshops. com.

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11:30 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.

Sounds of Christmas. A musical revue celebrating the spirit of the season through musical memories.

Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. Call 239-278-4422 or check broadwaypalm.com.

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Best Bets

wednesday

4:30 p.m. Holiday in the Park. Free admission.

Don’t miss the very popular blizzard with a giant snow slide, and snow pile.

Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive by horse and carriage.

Riverside Park, 10451 Old 41 Rd., Bonita Springs.

Call 239-949-6262 or check cityofbonitasprings. org.

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friday

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5:30 p.m. Hanukkah Workshop. Listen to stories, create crafts, and enjoy a kosher treat. All ages. Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-593-0334 or check collierlibrary.org.

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From a seahorse floating with seagrass to an angelfish hiding near the coral reef, dive in as we count just how many FINtastic fish we can see. Make a fishy craft.

Conservancy, 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples. Call 239-262-0304 or check conservancy.org.

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saturday

6:00 p.m. Jingle Bell Bash. An evening of winter fun with special activities, tree lighting ceremony, snacks, appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus all night long, and more holiday surprises. C’mon, 15080 Livingston Rd., Naples. Call 239-514-0084 or check cmon.org.

3:00 p.m. Snow Fest.

No matter what the “real” weather is that day, snow will be in the forecast to celebrate the winter holiday. Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples. Check snowfestnaples.com.

6:00 p.m. Deck the Depot. Join us for hot cocoa and the sweet sounds of the Naples Carolers. Story time and a free kid’s craft. Naples Depot Museum, 1051 5th Ave. S., Naples. Check colliermuseums.com.

7:00 p.m. The Nutcracker.

Dancers from the Naples Ballet and professional soloists from around the world bring Tchaikovsky’s timeless tale to life. Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. Check artisnaples. org.

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4:00 p.m. Candy House Creation. Use an assortment of candy, frosting, and cookies to design your own candy house. Everything included to make a yummy work of art. Ages 4-12. $12. Vineyards Community Park, 6231 Arbor Blvd., Naples. Call 239252-4105 or check www. colliercountyfl.gov. 20

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11:00 a.m. The Polar Express with Hot Cocoa and Cookies. Join us for a family-friendly holiday movie while enjoying hot cocoa and cookies. East Naples Library, 8787 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples. Call 239-7755592 or check collierlibrary. org.

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MOMentum Moms

By Anna Snyder

T

o know Jenny Lampion is to know laughter, understand considerate living, and to experience true creativity. She lives and works out of her home in Southwest Florida creating delicious, meticulously designed custom-cut sugar cookies with royal icing. She is – as those in this vein of baking call themselves – a cookier. I recently sat down with Jenny and talked her about her burgeoning home business, Made with Love in the 239: how it started, how she manages growth, and how she balances her passion with the de22

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mands of production.

Tell us about your family. My son, Max, is in third grade, and my daughter, Linnea, is in pre-K 4. My husband, Carlos, works for Hertz in the IT department. I’m a Naples native. My mother was a popular gospel singer who traveled the world with the Billy Graham team, and my dad was a singer/songwriter/pastor from Sweden who immigrated in 1979. They moved to Naples in 1986. I’m from a very musical family; there were always many instruments, recording equipment, and daily impromptu singalongs around during my childhood. Throughout my education, I

continued to play various instruments and sing. I graduated from Florida Gulf Coast University and became a teacher in 2006.

What led you into creating cookies? After Max was born, I struggled physically and emotionally. Pregnancy seemed to send my thyroid into a tailspin, and I struggled with my new norm. I know a lot of other first-time moms can relate to that struggle. My mom bought me a KitchenAid and encouraged me to “bake it out.”

My son was nearing his first birthday, and I saw a picture of super hero cookies on the internet, and I decided to try making a set for his party. They looked and tasted terrible! But I fell in love with cookies right then and there. Cookie-ing became my therapy – it was a way out of myself.

Tell us about your health journey.

When my son was a toddler, I had a breakthrough in my health; I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s autoimmune thyroid condition. I began working with a great doctor in Miami who continues to help me even now, and I started feeling much better. I was able to think clearly again, and I began to feel so much better. It’s still up and down with my health, but through it all, I love my family, and I love cookie-ing.

How did your passion for cookieing turn into a business? For the next few years while my son was preschool age, I created cookie sets for friends, showers, gifts, and events as a hobby without considering making money or the business aspect of what I was doing. As my hobby started to grow, my husband told me that I either needed to create a business to make money, or that I needed to stop giving cookies away and spending resources on my hobby. So, we decided together that I would continue to pursue my passion and create a business out of it; thus, Made with Love in the 239 was born in November 2017.

I’m a small home business, but I’ve gotten to the point where I’m at capacity.

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

The business has grown so much; I’m in awe. I’ve gotten so much support from the community around me.

What are some of the challenges of running a home business? Setting boundaries has been a learning curve for me.

When I first went live with my business, I was getting messages at all hours, and I would start answering them, or I would research various cookie cutters and design cookies. I wasn’t sleeping. Now, I get back to people the next morning if they contact me after dinner. I don’t go on my business page during the evening hours. My house is 1,600 square feet – I have a beautiful kitchen and a large island, but my house is small. So, I only do small batch work. It still gets to be cookie overload because every cookie needs to be laid out flat, which is a challenge.

What are some of the joys of running a home business? I can stay home with my kids! I can go to all the class parties and volunteer easily. Sometimes I struggle to separate my business from my parenting.

Frustration spills out because I’m constantly preparing for baking, baking, decorating, or cleaning. My kitchen is always extremely clean, but the rest of my house isn’t cleaned up. It’s the most fun job in the world, but sometimes it doesn’t feel like that.

How do you cultivate personal creativity and manage the expectations of your clients? There are two sides of my business, and I constantly seek to balance them. I need to keep myself engaged, inspired, and growing in skills and technological developments (colors, ingredients, techniques, etc.) and I need to keep getting paid enough to sustain and grow the business. Sometimes what you see on my page is not what I’m getting paid to produce. I still create cookie sets for myself. I believe in the art of it. I love to decorate cookies.

I’ve recently done a few “My Life in Cookie” sets for people. I design and create eight or nine cookies that represent their lives, passions, interests, and experiences. There’s nothing you can’t do in cookies. Cookies have infinite possibilities. You can be inspired by anything and put anything on a cookie!

What’s your vision for your business; how do you want it to grow? Right now, any growth is on hold until my daughter is in school fulltime. I have a million ideas, but I’m going to proceed with NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

Facing page: MOMentum Mom Jenny Lampion in the heart of her home-based business, Made With Love in the 239. Above, L-R: The Lampion family – Jenny, Linnea, Max, Storm Trooper, and Carlos.

Right: A selection of Jenny’s cookie creations. caution. I try to remind people that my business is not a bakery, and I can’t take on large, extensive projects. Being a mom is still my full-time gig; my kids are my number one priority. They don’t need expensive, fancy stuff. They need me at this time.

And, it’s important to me to be engaged in the process of parenting. The benefit of separating from my home business in order to parent is that it helps me to even more fully engage with my business during those set times. Yes, I’m itching to take on new work. I love it. But I’ve chosen to be a stay-at-home mom first.

I get asked a lot how I started this business and how I got into cookie-ing. I’m self-taught, and a lot of sweat, tears, and discovery went into this business in order to get it to where it is today. There’s no way I could have started the actual business (taking orders, designing, baking, decorating, deliveries, etc.) as a new mom with a 6-month-old baby.

What are some unexpected blessings of your business? This business has connected me to my community in new

ways. I get to talk to adults (my clients) in Southwest Florida on a daily basis. I also am blessed to have a wonderful community of other cookiers in this area. We all support each other, and I talk to them on a daily basis. I love my girl cookie gang!

I also have had opportunities to give back to my community by designing and creating custom sets of cookies for nonprofit events. It is such a blessing to give in a way that connects my passion to the needs of our community.

Jenny Lampion can be found on Instagram @ madeinthe239. neafamily.com

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9:00 a.m. Florida Panther Encounter. Who said you can’t train cats?

Meet Athena the rescued panther, and learn about her state-of-the-art exhibit and training. Naples Zoo, 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd., Naples. Check napleszoo. org.

tuesday

3:30 p.m. Wolves at the Shy Wolf Sanctuary. Learn how wolves are an important part of our natural world and how we can live alongside them in peace. Golden Gate Library, 2432 Lucerne Rd., Naples. Call 239-252-4542 or check collierlibrary.org.

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

11:00 a.m. Woofstock.

This groovy celebration of people and their furry friends features live music, good times, and many petrelated vendors. Mercato, 9132 Strada Pl., Naples.

Check hsnaples.org/woofstock.

9:00 a.m. Student Day Camp: Bountiful Birds.

A day in the field with hands-on learning. Grades 8-12. Students must bring their own lunch/snacks.

Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Rd., Naples. Call 239-530-5940 or check rookerybay.org.

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January

10:00 a.m. Last Day of Race to Space Exhibit.

Don’t miss your chance to experience Race to Space.

Build and test your own rocket then blast it into orbit. Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, 15080 Livingston Rd., Naples.

Call 239-514-0084 or check cmon.org.

neafamily.com

6:00 p.m. Night Lights in the Garden. A tropical winter wonderland.

Live musical performances, family activities, and festive sweets and treats. Naples Botanical Gardens, 4820 Bayshore Dr., Naples. Call 239-643-7275 or check naplesgarden.org.

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10:00 a.m. Naples Boat Show. The largest premier recreational show in the Naples-Marco Island area.

On land at the Naples Airport, in the water at the Naples City Dock with free shuttle service. Naples City Dock, 880 12th Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-682-0900 or check miacc.org.

10:00 a.m. Safari Squad.

Each toddler class includes an animal encounter, storybook reading, creative art, and free-choice play stations, such as sensory play and nature-based activities. Naples Zoo, 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd., Naples. Call 239-262-5409 or check napleszoo.org.

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5:30 p.m. Free Positive Discipline Parenting Workshop Series.

Join other families from your community in these fun and educational parent workshops. Greater Naples YMCA, 5450 YMCA Rd., Naples. Check greaternaplesymca.org or call 239-597-3148.

8:00 a.m. Holiday Camp (Ages 4-18). Camps include visual arts, performing arts, and cooking.

Centers for the Arts of Bonita Springs, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd. SE, Bonita Springs. Check artcenterbonita.org or call 239-495-8989.

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10:00 a.m. Le Leche League Monthly Meeting.

All breastfeeding mothers and mothers-to-be interested in breastfeeding are welcome. Or call one of our leaders for breastfeeding help. Center Point Community Church, 6590 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples. Visit lllsunshinestate. org.

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4:00 p.m. Sensory Friendly Saturdays. Free from 4-6 p.m. for families with autism spectrum disorder or other sensory processing needs. Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Dr., Naples. Check www. naplesgarden.org.

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11:00 a.m. Kids’ Bike Festival. Join us for a bike rodeo, bike and helmet fittings, bike light checks, and more. Grades K-5. Estates Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-455-8088 or check collierlibrary.org.

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10:30 a.m. Pups ’n’ Books.

Practice your reading skills with our furry friends. Dogs are provided by Golden PAWS Assistance Dogs.

All ages. Naples Regional Library, 650 Central Ave., Naples. Call 239-252-5135 or visit collierlibrary.org.

saturday

Best Bets

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10:30 a.m. Little Makers STEM Stations. Ages 2-5.

Construct with LEGO, create with Play-Doh, dig in the sand, and more.

Bonita Springs Public Library, 10560 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs. Call 239-479-4636 or check leegov.com/library.

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10:00 a.m. Project Graduation Car Show at the YMCA. Free admission.

Vendors, Krispy Kreme, and fun activities for the family. Greater Naples YMCA, 5450 YMCA Rd., Naples. Call 239-963-3771 or visit greaternaplesymca. org.

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ZOOBY

Exclusively marketed by Denticator™

239.592.0800

Just east of I-75, Exit 111

Dr. Marilyn C. Sandor, DDS, MS, PA

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5:30 p.m. Exceptional Student Education (ESE) Expo. Free. Connect with professionals and discover local resources available for preschool through high school transition-aged students. Gulf Coast High School, 7878 Shark Way, Naples. Visit collierschools. com.

7:30 p.m. The Golden Girls Show: A Puppet Parody. Get set for an evening of cheesecake, laughter, Jazzercise, shoulder pads, sex, and the elegant art of the quick-witted put down. Centers for the Arts of Bonita Springs, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd. SE, Bonita Springs. Check artcenterbonita.org. 30

23 9:00 a.m. Camp for Limb Different Children and Siblings. For limbdifferent youth and siblings wishing to take their game in mainstreamed sports to the next level. Hammond Stadium, 14100 Six Mile Cypress Pkwy., Fort Myers. Call 800-338-9467 or check nubability.org/ camps.

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8:00 a.m. Chalk It Up On Fifth. Watch as artists transform the halfmile pavement of posh Fifth Avenue South into a canvas for a day at this event raising money for college scholarships for local high school students. Fifth Avenue South, Naples.

Check naplesgov.com.

Naples Pediatric Dentistry www.DrMarilynSandor.com

Happy kids. Sparkly smiles.

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5:00 p.m. Sensory Night at C’mon. For children on the autism spectrum and/ or with other sensory integration disorders. Limited participation in order to minimize crowds. Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, 15080 Livingston Rd., Naples. Check cmon.org.

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9:00 a.m. Squirrel Appreciation Day. Celebrate squirrels with buy one get one free entrance. Rookery Bay, 300 Tower Rd., Naples. Call 239-530-5940 or check rookerybay.org.

Try it at our office.

11:00 a.m. Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade & Celebration. Parade begins at Broad Avenue South and Third Street at 11 a.m.

Celebration starts at 12 p.m. Entertainment, food, vendors, and activities.

Cambier Park, 755 Eighth Ave. S., Naples. Check naacpcolliercounty.com or call 239-455-2886.

10:00 a.m. Pets on Third Parade & Pet Fest. Bring your pets down to Third Avenue South for a themed parade with prizes and other activities. Third Street South, Naples. Check thirdstreetsouth.com.

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

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YOUR COMMUNITY JANUARY EVENTS CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS: To submit your event for both our online and print calendars, go to the Calendar at neafamily.com and follow the instructions for inputting event information.

The deadline for print calendar events is the 12th of the month preceding publication. You can submit events anytime for the online calendar.

Note: Please check dates and times before attending events. As we do not enter all calendar data, we cannot guarantee its accuracy.

1 WEDNESDAY 9:00 a.m. Winter Break Camps. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Lunch, snack, and drinks provided. All day play included. Children must be potty trained. Located at Inplay Family Fun, 4035 Santa Barbara Blvd., Naples.

Call 239-331-1992 or visit inplayfamilyfun.com.

10:00 a.m. Free Kids Crafts. Kids from toddlers to 12 enjoy fun activities in WINK Playland. Located at Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Rd., Estero.

Call 239-948-3766 or check miromaroutlets.com.

10:30 a.m. W.O.N.D.E.R. in the Garden. Imagine, create, and explore with themed lessons and activities. Included with regular admission. Located at Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Dr., Naples. Call 239-643-7275 or check naplesgarden.org.

6:00 p.m. Night Lights in the Garden. A tropical winter wonderland. Live musical performances, festive sweets and treats, and family activities. Located at Naples Botanical Gardens, 4820 Bayshore Dr., Naples. Call 239-643-7275 or visit naplesgarden.org.

2 THURSDAY 7:00 a.m. YMCA Winter Break Camp. Kids have the opportunity to try new activities in a fun and supportive environment. Sports, arts & crafts, group games, outdoor play, and tons of adventure.

Located at Greater Naples YMCA, 5450 YMCA

FRIENDS TODAY. CHANGEMAKERS TOMORROW.

Rd., Naples. Call 239-597-3148 or check www. greaternaplesymca.org.

8:00 a.m. Holiday Camp (Ages 4-18). Camps include visual arts, performing arts, and cooking.

Located at Centers for the Arts of Bonita Springs, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd. SE, Bonita Springs. Call 239-495-8989 or check artcenterbonita.org.

8:00 a.m. Yoga at the Naples Art Association.

Please bring your own yoga mat. Located at Naples Art Association, 585 Park St., Naples. Call 239-2626517 or check naplesart.org.

10:00 a.m. The Mixed-Up Chameleon. Hear the story of how a chameleon gets all mixed up by wishing he was something else and discover how each animal has its own unique talents. Design your own mixed-up critter and meet one of our animal ambassadors. Ages 5 and younger. Located at Conservancy, 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples. Call 239-2620304 or check conservancy.org.

10:00 a.m. Winter Wonderland. All month long, help us decorate our display in the children’s department by decorating some winter shapes. All ages.

Registration not required. Located at Vanderbilt Beach Library, 788 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples.

Call 239-597-8444 or check collierlibrary.org.

10:15 a.m. Mini Wonders. Thursdays and Fridays.

Toddler fun and activities dedicated to our little learners 5 and younger. Every month we explore new books, create art projects, tinker, and more. Located at Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, 15080

TROOPS ARE FORMING NOW!

941-921-5358 800-232-4475 www.gsgcf.org 26

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NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

Livingston Rd., Naples. Call 239-514-0084 or check cmon.org.

11:15 a.m. Daily Programs for Kids. Be A Biologist at 11:15 a.m. Scales and Tales at 12:15 p.m. Ocean Discoveries at 1:15 p.m. November-April, Wonders of Wildlife at 2:15 p.m. Located at Conservancy, 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples.

Call 239-262-0304 or check www.conservancy.org.

2:00 p.m. Meals of Hope Food Pantry. Frozen food, fresh produce, and canned goods will be given away to families in need. Everyone is welcome. Located at Golden Gate Senior Center, 4898 Coronado Pkwy., Naples. Check mealsofhope.org.

3:30 p.m. Lego Club. Be creative, make new friends, and have fun. Bricks will be provided. Ages 5-11. Located at Marco Island Library, 210 S. Heathwood Dr., Marco Island. Call 239- 394-3272 or check collierlibrary.org.

7:30 p.m. Alateen Meetings. Alateen is a peer support group for teens who are struggling with the effects of someone else’s problem drinking. Located at Habitat for Humanity Tutor House, 5250 Floridan Ave., Naples. Call 239-263-5907 or check NaplesAl-Anon.org for other meeting days and locations.

3 FRIDAY 9:00 a.m. Find It Fridays. Kids enjoy a scavenger hunt all day. Located at Everglades Wonder Gardens, 27180 Old 41 Rd., Bonita Springs. Call 239-992-2591 or visit evergladeswondergardens.com.

10:30 a.m. Mommy & Me Yoga Class. Ages 2-5. A special time with your child. $20 per mommy and child. Includes 30 minutes of free play. Call 239-703-6671 to register. Located at We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym, 17640 Tamiami Tr. S., Fort Myers. Check werockthespectrumfortmyers.com or call 239-362-3378.

4:00 p.m. Family Night. $7 per child. Located at Whiz Kids, 1050 Pine Ridge Rd., Naples. Call 239-263-7017 or check whizkidsnaples.com.

6:00 p.m. Family Open Gym. Ages 6 and younger. Parents must stay. $9. Located at Gymnastic World, 2187 Trade Center Way, Naples. Check gwnaples.com or call 239-592-0608.

7:00 p.m. Neapolitan Opry ‘ Cluster Pluckin. Jazz, folk, bluegrass, harp guitar, acoustic Delta blues, and more. Call 239-213-3049. Located at The Norris Community Center, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. Check naplesgov.com.

A lifelong joy of learning, An education for life.

INFANT TODDLER CHILDREN’S HOUSE VPK

4 SATURDAY

ELEMENTARY

8:00 a.m. 2nd Annual Rock Your Resolution Fitness Event. Experience everything the YMCA has to offer and help raise money for a great cause. Located at Greater Naples YMCA, 5450 YMCA Rd., Naples. Call 239-963-3769 or check www.greaternaplesymca.org.

9:00 a.m. Ave Maria Farmers Market. Every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Located at Annunciation Circle, Ave Maria. Call 239-352-3903.

9:00 a.m. Free Saturday at Naples Zoo. Collier County residents get in free the first Saturday of every month with proof of residency. Located at Naples Zoo, 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd., Naples. Call 239-262-5409 or visit napleszoo.org.

9:00 a.m. Kids’ Workshops. A new craft each month. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Ages 5-12. Located at Home Depot, 2251 Pine Ridge Rd., Naples. Check www.homedepot.com.

Youth Classes DESIGNED TO MEET HOMESCHOOLING REQUIREMENTS NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

Call to schedule a private tour

239-597-2255

More information can be found on our website

www.naplesmontessori.org 2655 Northbrooke Drive Naples, Florida 34119 License #C20CO0132

Daily hours from 7:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M.

Register Now JAN - MAY • AGES 5-14 SATURDAYS 9am - 12pm • 1pm - 4pm

TUESDAYS 1pm - 4pm

585 Park Street, Naples 34102 | 239.262.6517 | NaplesArt.org neafamily.com

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9:00 a.m. Science Saturdays. Unleash your inner scientist or marine biologist with hands-on discovery labs for all ages. Located at Rookery Bay, 300 Tower Rd., Naples. Call 239-530-5940 or check rookerybay.org.

9:00 a.m. Yoga for Kids. Ages 2-5. $20 per child, $15 for siblings. Includes 30 minutes of free play before class. Located at We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym, 17640 Tamiami Tr. S., Fort Myers. Call 239-703-6671 or email tatianatholt@gmail.com to register. Check werockthespectrumfortmyers.com.

10:00 a.m. Beginning Crochet. Learn the basics of crochet. Located at Marco Island Library, 210 S. Heathwood Dr., Marco Island. Call 239-394-3272 or check collierlibrary.org.

10:00 a.m. Free Kids’ Fishing. We supply the rods, reels, bait, and knowledge.

Located at Bass Pro Shops, 10040 Gulf Center Dr., Fort Myers. Call 239-4617800 or check basspro.com.

10:00 a.m. Naples New Year’s Art Show. This two-day winter tradition features 250 nationally-recognized, jury-selected artists who showcase their work from various artistic mediums. Located at Fifth Avenue South, Naples. Check www. fifthavenuesouth.com.

10:30 a.m. Pups ’n’ Books. Practice your reading skills with our furry friends.

Dogs are provided by Golden PAWS Assistance Dogs. All ages. Located at Naples Regional Library, 650 Central Ave., Naples. Call 239-252-5135 or visit collierlibrary.org.

1:00 p.m. Autism Spectrum Play Group. Open to ages 5-16. $10 per child.

A safe, structured, and supervised place for your child to interact with others.

Located at Christ Community Church, 4050 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. Check fi-florida.org.

1:00 p.m. First Saturday Films. Enjoy a first run children’s film on the first Saturday of the month. All films rated G, PG, or PG-13. Call the library for the movie title. Snacks provided. Located at Marco Island Library, 210 S. Heathwood Dr., Marco Island. Call 239-394-3272 or check collierlibrary.org.

1:00 p.m. Soapmaking. Learn how to make homemade soap. Ages 15 to adult.

Registration required. Located at Estates Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-455-8088 or check collierlibrary.org.

2:00 p.m. Movie Afternoon. Dora and The Lost City of Gold (PG). All ages. Registration not required. Located at Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee.

Call 239-657-2882 or check collierlibrary.org.

6:00 p.m. Parents’ Night Out. A fun night of games and activities. Located at Sky Zone Park, 14181 S. Tamiami Tr., Fort Myers. Check www.skyzone.com.

5 SUNDAY 9:00 a.m. Sensory Sensitive Sundays. Less crowding and a quieter restaurant environment, dimmed lighting, the show and music turned down or off entirely, limited appearances by Chuck E., full menu, access to all games and rides. Located at Chuck E. Cheese’s Fort Myers, 5020 Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers. Call 239-3340563 or check www.chuckecheese.com.

9:30 a.m. Alateen Meetings. Alateen is a peer support group for teens who are struggling with the effects of someone else’s problem drinking. Located at 24 Hour Club, 1509 Pine Ridge Rd., Naples. Call 239-263-5907 or visit naplesAl-Anon. org for other meeting days and locations.

10:00 a.m. Last Day of Race to Space Exhibit. Don’t miss your chance to experience Race to Space. Build and test your own rocket then blast it into orbit. Located at Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, 15080 Livingston Rd., Naples. Call 239-514-0084 or check www.cmon.org.

10:00 a.m. Yoga in the Garden. General admission plus $10. Located at Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Dr., Naples. Call 239-643-7275 or check www. naplesgarden.org.

12:00 p.m. Sunday Programs. Join us for a day of themed activities. Included with price of admission. Located at C’mon, 15080 Livingston Rd., Naples. Call 239-514-0084 or check cmon.org.

6 MONDAY 9:00 a.m. Student Day Camp - Bountiful Birds. A day in the field with handson learning. Grades 8-12. Students must bring their own lunch/snacks. Located at Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Rd., Naples. Call 239-530-5940 or check www.rookerybay.org.

10:00 a.m. Cooking with Tish. Join us for a demonstration on cooking chicken

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NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

casserole, lava cake, and a surprise recipe. Ages 12-18. Registration is required.

Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239593-0334 or check collierlibrary.org.

11:00 a.m. Bereaved Moms Grief Support Group. Discover ways to cope with the very difficult loss of your child. Located at Hope Healthcare, 9470 HealthPark Cr., Fort Myers. Call 239-985-7716 or check HopeHCS.org.

1:00 p.m. No School Fun Film. Pokemon: Detective Pikachu. Rated PG. Located at Estates Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-455-8088 or check collierlibrary.org.

2:00 p.m. Movie Afternoon. Angry Birds Movie 2. Rated PG. Spend your day at the library with a movie and popcorn. All ages. Registration is not required.

Located at Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee. Call 239-657-2882 or check collierlibrary.org.

3:30 p.m. Meals of Hope Food Pantry. Frozen food, fresh produce, and canned goods will be given away to families in need. Everyone is welcome. Located at Lely Presbyterian Church, 110 St. Andrews Blvd., Naples. Check mealsofhope.org.

4:00 p.m. Meals of Hope Mobile Food Pantry. Frozen food, fresh produce, and canned goods will be given away to families in need. Located at River Park Recreation Center, 301 11th St. N., Naples. Check mealsofhope.org.

4:30 p.m. Golden PAWS Readers. Practice reading aloud to these special dogs.

All ages. Located at East Naples Library, 8787 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples. Call 239775-5592 or check collierlibrary.org.

7 TUESDAY 9:00 a.m. Florida Panther Encounter. Who said you can’t train cats? Meet Athena, our rescued panther, and learn about her state-of-the-art exhibit and training.

Located at Naples Zoo, 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd., Naples. Check napleszoo.org.

9:15 a.m. Circle Time. Sing, read a book, and do a craft or activity. Reservations required. Located at InPlay Family Fun, 4035 Santa Barbara Blvd., Naples. Call 239-963-9716 or check inplayfamilyfun.com.

10:00 a.m. Baby Story Time. Ages 3-15 months. Songs, rhymes, and stories designed to promote language development. Registration is required. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-593-0334 or check collierlibrary.org.

10:00 a.m. Family Story Time. Stories, songs, learning activities, and crafts.

Located at Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee. Call 239-657-2882 or check collierlibrary.org.

10:00 a.m. Storytime with Miss Mary Ellen. Join us for reading, singing, and coloring. All ages. Located at Barnes & Noble, 5377 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples. Call 239-598-5200 or check stores.barnesandnoble.com.

10:00 a.m. Teen Activity Corner. All day. Relieve some stress by working on a puzzle, reading, or writing in the teen journals. Located at Vanderbilt Beach Library, 788 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples. Call 239-597-8444 or check www. collierlibrary.org.

12:00 p.m. Preschool Open Gym. Tuesdays & Wednesdays. Bring your children ages 6 and under. This is not a drop-off open gym. $9. Located at Gymnastic World, 2187 Trade Center Way, Naples. Call 239-592-0608 or check gwnaples. com.

3:00 p.m. Meals of Hope Mobile Food Pantry. Frozen food, fresh produce, and canned goods will be given away to families in need. Everyone is welcome. Located at East Naples Community Park, 3500 Thomasson Dr., Naples, and Greater Naples YMCA, 5450 YMCA Rd., Naples. Check mealsofhope.org.

5:00 p.m. Scoopie Kid’s Night. Every Tuesday. Face painting, balloon animals, and crafts. Located at Culver’s of Naples, 5775 Airport Pulling Rd., Naples. Call 239-596-4640 or check culvers.com.

6:30 p.m. Winter Concert Series: Billy Dean and Dawn. A variety of music genres from the 1930s to today. Reservation required. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check collierlibrary.org.

8 WEDNESDAY 10:30 a.m. Pee Wee Play Date. Have fun with our toys and games and listen to music. Make friends and discover new activities. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check www. collierlibrary.org.

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

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3:00 p.m. Meals of Hope Mobile Food Pantry. Frozen food, fresh produce, and canned goods will be given away to families in need. Everyone is welcome. Located at Max A. Hasse Community Park, 3390 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Check mealsofhope.org.

4:00 p.m. Lego Club. Share ideas, be creative, and have fun. Test out your creation on our super-fast test track. Bricks will be provided and your creation will be displayed. Ages 4-11. Located at Estates Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-455-8088 or check collierlibrary.org.

5:00 p.m. Scoopie Night. Every Wednesday. Face painting, balloon animals, and crafts. Located at Culver’s of Naples, 5102 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples. Call 239-7325025 or check culvers.com.

6:00 p.m. EXPLO Info Meeting. Learn about EXPLO summer program options for students. Located at Ritz Carlton Naples, 280 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples.

Check www.explo.org.

9 THURSDAY 10:00 a.m. Over in the Forest. Experience a hands-on activity while reading about what critters we might find living in the forest and how they move. Learn about animal tracks, and create your own tracking guide. Ages 5 and younger.

Located at Conservancy, 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples. Call 239-262-0304 or check conservancy.org.

10:30 a.m. Family Story Time. Enjoy stories, songs and a craft for children of all ages and caregivers. Located at Marco Island Library, 210 S. Heathwood Dr., Marco Island. Call 239-394-3272 or check collierlibrary.org.

5:30 p.m. Free Positive Discipline Parenting Workshop Series. Join other families from your community in these fun and educational parent workshops.

Located at Greater Naples YMCA, 5450 YMCA Rd., Naples. Call 239-597-3148 or check www.greaternaplesymca.org.

7:00 p.m. YA Book Club. Join us every second Thursday of the month to discuss compelling stories and characters. Located at Barnes & Noble, 5377 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples. Call 239-598-5200 or check www.stores.barnesandnoble.com.

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10 FRIDAY 10:00 a.m. Le Leche League Monthly Meeting. All breastfeeding mothers and mothers-to-be interested in breastfeeding are welcome. Or call one of our leaders for breastfeeding help. Located at Center Point Community Church, 6590 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples. Visit lllsunshinestate.org.

3:00 p.m. Avian Anglers. Learn about the dozens of migratory species that come to SWFL in the winter. Located at Estates Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-455-8088 or check collierlibrary.org.

11 SATURDAY 10:00 a.m. Naples Children’s Business Fair. Sponsored by the Naples Chamber of Commerce. Young entrepreneurs, ages 6-17, sell their products and services at the fair. Located at Gulf Coast High School, 7878 Shark Way, Naples. Check www.napleschamber.org.

11:00 a.m. Kids’ Bike Festival. Join us for a bike rodeo, bike and helmet fittings, bike light checks, and more. Grades K-5. Located at Estates Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-455-8088 or check collierlibrary.org.

11:00 a.m. Kids Zone. A different craft every month. Kids also receive an ID badge, lanyard, and collector’s pins. Located at JCPenney at Coastland Center Mall, 2076 9th St. N., Naples. Call 239-261-6010 or check jcpenney.com.

1:00 p.m. Animal Adventures. Meet a New Guinea singing dog, the rarest canine in the world, with an estimated population of 17 living in the wild. Ages 12-18.

Registration is not required. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-593-0334 or check collierlibrary.org.

1:00 p.m. Saturday Movie Matinee. The Angry Birds Movie 2. Rated PG. Registration not required. Located at Estates Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-455-8088 or check collierlibrary.org.

2:00 p.m. Create a Toy for Your Pet. Make dog pull toys, cat pom-poms, and “cat ravioli”. Bring old t-shirts and pants and tennis balls, if you have them. Extra

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

toys can be made for donation to Domestic Animal Services. Ages 12-18. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-593-0334 or check collierlibrary.org.

5:00 p.m. Group for Parents of Children with ASD. A welcoming environment for parents and caregivers to meet, share experiences, ideas, ask questions, and receive support. Located at We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym, 17640 Tamiami Tr. S., Suite 309, Fort Myers. Check werockthespectrumfortmyers.com or call 239-362-3378.

5:00 p.m. YMCA Kids’ Night Out. Parents can enjoy a night out while the kids have fun in a safe and secure environment. Ages 6 months to 12 years. Preregistration is required. Dinner included. Located at Greater Naples YMCA, 5450 YMCA Rd., Naples. Call 239-597-3148 or check www.greaternaplesymca.org.

12 SUNDAY 11:00 a.m. Woofstock. This groovy celebration of people and their furry friends features live music, good times, and many pet-related vendors. Located at Mercato, 9132 Strada Pl., Naples. Check hsnaples.org/woofstock.

Naples Premier Catholic School

13 MONDAY 9:30 a.m. Essentials of Digital Photography. Truly understand your camera’s features and get the best pictures possible. Rookery Bay, 300 Tower Rd., Naples.

Call 239-530-5940 or check rookerybay.org.

6:00 p.m. Courtyard Performance. Captain Joe and the Bottom Feeders.

Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239593-0334 or check collierlibrary.org.

14 TUESDAY 10:00 a.m. Ave Maria Arts & Crafts Festival. Free admission and parking, Sculptures, paintings, jewelry, photography, ceramics, live music, and more. Located at Ave Maria Town Center, 5076 Annunciation Circle, Ave Maria. Call 239-352-3903 or check avemaria.com.

3:30 p.m. Wolves at the Shy Wolf Sanctuary. Learn how wolves are an important part of our natural world and how we can live alongside them in peace.

Located at Golden Gate Library, 2432 Lucerne Rd., Naples. Call 239-252-4542 or check collierlibrary.org.

6:00 p.m. Artify with Miss Sharon. Ages 6-11. Explore new art projects or advanced techniques during this monthly program. January’s project is winter inspired. All materials provided. Dress for mess. Registration required. Located at Bonita Springs Public Library, 10560 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs. Call 239-4794636 or check www.leegov.com/library.

Please email our Admissions Director Tracy Farley tfarley@stann.net . 239.262.4110. www.stann.net 542 8th Avenue South . Naples, FL 34102 facebook.com/Saint AnnSchool

The Most Awesome Family Guidebook on the Planet!

15 WEDNESDAY 10:00 a.m. Safari Squad. Each toddler class includes an animal encounter, storybook reading, creative art, and free-choice play stations, such as sensory play and nature-based activities. Located at Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd., Naples. Call 239-262-5409 or check www.napleszoo.org.

3:00 p.m. Lego Club. Share ideas, be creative, and have fun. Bricks provided. All ages. Located at Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee. Call 239-6572882 or check collierlibrary.org.

6:00 p.m. Klezmer Revival Band Concert. In celebration of Florida Jewish History Month. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check collierlibrary.org.

16 THURSDAY 10:00 a.m. Naples Boat Show. The largest boat show in the Naples-Marco Island area. On land at the Naples Airport, in the water at the Naples City Dock with free shuttle service. Located at Naples City Dock, 880 12th Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-682-0900 or check www.miacc.org.

10:00 a.m. Where Should Turtle Be? Learn about all the turtles you might find here in SWFL. Located at Conservancy, 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples. Call 239-262-0304 or check conservancy.org.

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

The all-new Second Edition is the perfect guide for visitors, local families, classrooms, homeschool groups and libraries. Twice as many colorful photos and illustrations...more super-fun attractions and experiences... more freaky factoids and inside tips. Plus, all the websites and phone numbers you need. It’s absolutely, positively not just for kids! Available in the best bookstores, gift shops, and on amazon.com. neafamily.com

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Interested learning more more Interested in learning about about photography? photography?

Photographing Through a Fence     

Open your aperture as wide as possible.

Zoom as much as possible.

The fence needs to be far from the animal.

You need to be close to the fence.

Use manual focus.

3:30 p.m. Lego Club. Share ideas, be creative, make new friends, and have fun.

Bricks will be provided and your creation will be put on display. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check collierlibrary.org.

4:00 p.m. Teens DIY Project. Join us after school for a fun craft and personalize your own water bottle. Grades 6-12. Supplies are limited. Registration is not required. Located at Naples Regional Library, 650 Central Ave., Naples. Call 239252-5135 or check collierlibrary.org.

7:00 p.m. PFLAG Support Group Meeting. The Naples chapter of PFLAG (Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) meets on the third Thursday of each month. Visit pflagnaples.org or call 239-963-4670 for location.

17 FRIDAY 2:00 p.m. Meet the Author: Jose Ramirez. Meet the illustrator of children’s books, including Quinito’s Neighborhood/El vecindario de Quinito; Goodnight, Papito Dios/Buenas noches, Papito Dios. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check collierlibrary.org.

18 SATURDAY 9:00 a.m. Family Game Day. All day. Enjoy a day of family fun and see what games other families like to play. Located at Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee. Call 239-657-2882 or check collierlibrary.org.

10:00 a.m. Bonita Springs Maker Faire 2020. From engineers to artists to scientists to crafters, Maker Faire is a venue for these “makers” to show hobbies, experiments, projects, and more. Located at Centers for Performing Arts Bonita Springs, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd., Bonita Springs. Call 239-495-8989 or check bonitasprings.makerfaire.com.

10:00 a.m. Chinese New Year - Year of the Rat. Crafts, food, and a special Asian dance. Ages 4-11. Registration required. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-593-0334 or check collierlibrary.org.

1:00 p.m. Where Do Panthers Live? Learn about the natural history of panthers, how to avoid contact with them, and what to do if you happen to find one. Ages 5 to adult. Registration not required. Located at Estates Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-455-8088 or check collierlibrary.org.

1:30 p.m. Pups ’n’ Books. Stop by to read to a dog or just to pet one. Dogs are provided by PAWS Assistance and Therapy Dogs. All ages. Registration not required. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples.

Call 239-252-7369 or check collierlibrary.org.

3:00 p.m. Teen Trivia. Grab your friends and put your knowledge to the test.

Snacks provided. Winners and runners-up will walk away with bragging rights and a small prize. Ages 11-18. Located at Bonita Springs Public Library, 10560 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs. Call 239-479-4636 or check www.leegov.com/library.

4:00 p.m. Sensory Friendly Saturdays. Free from 4-6 p.m. for families with autism spectrum disorder or other sensory processing needs. Located at Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Dr., Naples. Check www.naplesgarden.org.

19 SUNDAY AtUnderstand Understand Photography, At Photography, We Simplify the Technical!

We Simplify the Technical!

Check out our classes, tips and Check photo tours.out our classes,

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9:30 a.m. Zoo Yoga. Start your day an animal-themed yoga class designed for all.

Bring your own yoga mat, towel, and water. Children under 3 are free. Located at Naples Zoo, 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd., Naples. Call 239-262-5409 or check napleszoo.org.

10:00 a.m. Pets on Third Parade & Pet Fest. Bring your pets down to Third Avenue South for a themed parade with prizes and other activities. Located at 1207 3rd St. S., Naples. Check thirdstreetsouth.com.

2:00 p.m. Naples Concert Band. Free concert. Bring a blanket for the whole family. Located at Cambier Park, 755 Eighth Ave. S., Naples. Visit naplesgov.com.

20 MONDAY 11:00 a.m. Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade & Celebration. Parade begins at Broad Avenue South and Third Street at 11 a.m. Celebration starts at 12 p.m. in Cambier Park. Entertainment, food & refreshments, vendors, and children’s activities. Located at Cambier Park, 755 Eighth Ave. S., Naples. Check www. naacpcolliercounty.com or call 239-455-2886.

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

21 TUESDAY 9:00 a.m. Squirrel Appreciation Day. Celebrate squirrels with buy one get one free entrance. Located at Rookery Bay, 300 Tower Rd., Naples. Call 239-5305940 or check www.rookerybay.org.

10:00 a.m. Manatees and Dolphins. Learn behaviors, anatomy, and fun facts about manatees and dolphins. Located at Koreshan State Park, 3800 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Call 239-992-0311 or check friendsofkoreshan.org.

6:00 p.m. Lego Club. Join us for a short story and building challenges. Bricks provided. For grades K-5. Located at Bonita Springs Public Library, 10560 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs. Call 239-479-4636 or check leegov.com/library.

6:00 p.m. Teen Gaming Night. Drop in to the teen area and try out board games and our video game center. Ages 11-18. Located at Bonita Springs Public Library, 10560 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs. Call 239-479-4636 or check leegov.com.

22 WEDNESDAY 5:30 p.m. Exceptional Student Education (ESE) Expo. Free. Connect with professionals and discover the many local resources available for preschool through high school transition-aged students. Located at Gulf Coast High School, 7878 Shark Way, Naples. Check www.collierschools.com.

23 THURSDAY 10:00 a.m. Chalk the Walk. Celebrate Universal Children’s Day and use your imagination to decorate your very own sidewalk square. Located at Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee. Call 239-657-2882 or check collierlibrary.org.

10:00 a.m. Commotion in the Ocean. Learn about the different animals that live in the ocean, from barnacles to blue whales, through fun, under-the-sea rhymes, and a guided touch tank encounter. Create your own whale to take home. Ages 5 and younger. Located at Conservancy of Southwest Florida, 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples. Call 239-262-0304 or check conservancy.org.

4:00 p.m. Teens: Movie @ the Library. Ages 11-17. Come watch a movie after school. Registration is not required. Located at Naples Regional Library, 650 Central Ave., Naples. Call 239-252-5135 or check collierlibrary.org.

24 FRIDAY 2:00 p.m. Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia. Dementia isn’t normal aging. Learn about the impact of Alzheimer’s, risk factors, and updates on new research findings. Registration required. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check collierlibrary.org.

3:00 p.m. Kid’s Crafternoon. Spend an hour making crafts. Grades 1-5. Registration required. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check collierlibrary.org.

3:00 p.m. PAWS to Read with K-9 Caring Angels Therapy Dogs. Read with a four-legged friend from Sit Means Sit Dog Training Center. Dogs are the perfect reading companions because they create a relaxed, comfortable and safe environment for sharing books. Ages 5-11. No registration required. Located at Bonita Springs Public Library, 10560 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs. Call 239-479-4636 or check www.leegov.com/library.

25 SATURDAY 8:00 a.m. Chalk It Up On Fifth. Watch as artists transform the half-mile pavement of posh Fifth Avenue South into a canvas for a day at this event raising money for college scholarships for local high school students. Located at Fifth Avenue South, Naples. Check naplesgov.com.

8:00 a.m. Run for the Paws. Join the race to help orphaned pets. Located at Civil Air Patrol, 360 Aviation Dr. S., Naples. Call 239-643-1555 or check www. naplesgov.com.

10:00 a.m. Family Art Labs. Drop in for free, hands-on family fun. Explore something new every month: art making, gallery activities, games, and more.

Located at Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Call 239939-2787 or check artinlee.org.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

Redeem the card at any of these local businesses.

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TNP KidzAct is Southwest Florida’s premier youth theatre program where children as young as four years old can experience the benefits of theatre education classes.

11:00 a.m. Empty Bowls. Select a bowl, enjoy soups from over 50 local restaurants, watch live performances, paint a bowl, and participate in the silent auction and pottery sale. Located at Cambier Park, 755 Eighth Ave. S., Naples. Call 239438-5926 or check emptybowlsnaples.com.

1:00 p.m. Amazing World of Reptiles. Meet Jessie, a 16-foot long, 175-pound albino Burmese python. Jessie will be bringing some of her reptile friends: snakes, turtles, lizards, and even a crocodile. Located at Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee. Call 239-657-2882 or check collierlibrary.org.

1:00 p.m. 10th Annual Sunshine Steak Cook-Off. Food, music, games, and family fun. Located at Annunciation Circle, Ave Maria. Check sunshinestatesteakcookoff.com or call 239-352-3903.

2:00 p.m. Chinese New Year Craft. Make a special craft and enjoy a snack to celebrate Chinese New Year. All ages. Registration is not required. Located at Golden Gate Library, 2432 Lucerne Rd., Naples. Call 239-252-4542 or check collierlibrary.org.

3:00 p.m. Reading with Maggie. Practice your reading skills with our furry friend Maggie. She is a friendly and insured chocolate lab who loves children and enjoys reading. All ages. Located at Vanderbilt Beach Library, 788 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples. Call 239-597-8444 or check collierlibrary.org.

26 SUNDAY 10:00 a.m. Project Graduation Car Show at the YMCA. Cool Cruisers SWFL and the Greater Naples YMCA present a car show to benefit Project Graduation.

Free admission to the public. Vendors, Krispy Kreme, and fun activities for the family. Located at Greater Naples YMCA, 5450 YMCA Rd., Naples. Call 239963-3771 or check www.greaternaplesymca.org.

10:00 a.m. St. Elizabeth Seton Open House. Tour our campus and meet our amazing teachers and staff. See first-hand what a difference quality Catholic education can make in the life of your child. You can afford it! Scholarships available.

Located at St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School, 2730 53rd Terrace SW, Naples.

Call 239-455-2262 or check saintelizabethseton.com.

11:00 a.m. Saint Ann Catholic School Open House. Our state-of-the-art campus will be open for you to tour and ask questions regarding our curriculum, extracurricular activities, athletics, professional affiliations, and more. Located at Saint Ann Catholic School, 542 8th Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-262-4110 or check stann.net.

27 MONDAY 10:30 a.m. Little Makers STEM Stations. Discover, build, create. Ages 2-5.

Construct with LEGO, create with Play-Doh, dig in the sand, and more. Located at Bonita Springs Public Library, 10560 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs. Call 239479-4636 or check www.leegov.com/library.

28 TUESDAY

50%

Nearly of children enrolled in KidzAct programs receive some level of financial scholarship.

$79,591

in scholarships were provided to local children for KidzAct programs in 2018.

Contact:

KENZIE CURRIE | Education Stage Manager

239.434.7340, EXT. 127

NAPLESPLAYERS.ORG 701 5TH AVENUE SOUTH • NAPLES, FL 34102 34

neafamily.com

3:00 p.m. Women Soldiers of the Civil War. Learn about how hundreds of women disguised themselves as men and volunteered to join the armies on the North and South during the war. Located at Vanderbilt Beach Library, 788 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples. Call 239-597-8444 or check collierlibrary.org.

5:00 p.m. Sensory Night at C’mon. For children on the autism spectrum and/or with other sensory integration disorders. Limited participation in order to minimize crowds. Located at Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, 15080 Livingston Rd., Naples. Check cmon.org or call 239-514-0084.

6:00 p.m. Science Nite at Rookery Bay – Sharks. Learn fun facts about one of the most popular and misunderstood fish in the ocean. Food and drink will be served. Located at Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Rd., Naples. Call 239-530-5940 or check www.rookerybay.org.

29 WEDNESDAY 3:30 p.m. Edible Crafts. Make crafts that you can eat. Located at Golden Gate Library, 2432 Lucerne Rd., Naples. Call 239-252-4542 or check collierlibrary.org.

6:00 p.m. The Legend of the Pony Express. Learn about this early mail transportation method, how it changed people’s lives, and places you can visit today to learn more about this part of U.S. history. Located at Naples Regional Library, 650 Central Ave., Naples. Call 239-252-5135 or check collierlibrary.org.

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

30 THURSDAY 10:00 a.m. House for Hermit Crab. Hear a story about a hermit crab that decorates its shell to blend into its habitat and how it makes friends along the way. Help the crab decorate its shell and then make one to take home. Ages 5 and younger.

Located at Conservancy of Southwest Florida, 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples.

Call 239-262-0304 or check conservancy.org.

10:00 a.m. How Safe Is Your Computer? Computer and Internet security is constantly in the news today, but do you really know how secure your own computer, phone, or iPad is? Located at Golden Gate Library, 2432 Lucerne Rd., Naples.

Call 239-252-4542 or check collierlibrary.org.

2:00 p.m. Better Travel and Vacation Photos. Take your travel and vacation photos to the next level. Located at Naples Regional Library, 650 Central Ave., Naples. Call 239-252-5135 or check collierlibrary.org.

4:00 p.m. Teens: Game Night. Celebrate the upcoming Super Bowl LIV with fun games and snacks after school. Grades 6-12. Registration not required.

Located at Naples Regional Library, 650 Central Ave., Naples. Call 239-252-5135 or check collierlibrary.org.

7:30 p.m. The Golden Girls Show: A Puppet Parody. Get set for an evening of cheesecake, laughter, jazzercise, shoulder pads, sex, and the elegant art of the quick-witted put down. Located at Centers for the Arts of Bonita Springs, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd. SE, Bonita Springs. Check www.artcenterbonita.org.

31 FRIDAY 9:00 a.m. Camp for Limb Different Children and Siblings. This camp is for limb-different youth and siblings wishing to take their game in mainstreamed

sports to the next level. Located at Hammond Stadium, 14100 Six Mile Cypress Pkwy., Fort Myers. Call 800-338-9467 or check nubability.org/camps.

10:00 a.m. Art Smarts. Ages 2-5 years. Join us for a special story time focusing on process art. Dress for mess. Registration required. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-252-7369 or check www. collierlibrary.org.

10:00 a.m. Mommy and Me at the Museum. Learn, explore, and have fun.

Located at Marco Island Historical Museum, 180 S. Heathwood Dr., Marco Island. Check colliermuseums.com.

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Promote Your Events for Kids and Families for FREE! Neapolitan Family’s online and print calendars are the go-to-resource for families in SWFL, and you can include your events for FREE! Simply go to neafamily.com, click on Calendar, and look for the blue button "Add Event".

You can even post photos. All for free! neafamily.com/calendar NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

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PARENTING

By Jill Morgenstern

A Parent’s Guide to Sleepovers

M

y son’s first sleepover was at the home of a nurse. “He’ll be safer with her than he would be with me!” I reasoned.

His sister was upset that he got to go. She considered it unfair that she was two and a half years older but had never slept at a friend’s house. But her invites generally had been from parents I didn’t know. And not only was my son going to be in the care of a nurse, the nurse was someone I interacted with on a daily basis and knew fairly well. The difference between the sleepover that he attended and the ones that she had been deprived of was a safety issue. I felt good about sending him, and it wasn’t a matter of his age.

Sleepovers can cause anxiety in even the most seasoned parents.

How old should children be? How do I know they’re safe? Will they have a good time or be cranky? And although some parents ban

sleepovers completely, others consider them an indispensable part of a normal childhood.

Sleepovers have many benefits: Sleepovers provide kids with more unstructured time to socialize. With our busy schedules, unstructured play time is to be treasured. This larger block of time than they usually get with each other can provide needed time to socialize more deeply and engage in more intricate play scenarios.

Sleepovers allow children to experience how other families function. Seeing how other families eat dinner or their bedtime routines expands children’s horizons. Whether it is different foods to try at dinner or different expectations about bedtime, children get a peek into a whole new world.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020 Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort

Sleepovers promote independence. As children grow older these experiences of being away from their parents will benefit them as they ultimately tackle the wider world by themselves. When your child wants to go on a school trip or to camp, they already will have the experience of having been away from home.

Sleepovers increase responsibility. Children learn how to navigate a new situation by themselves. Normal routines are suspended as they take charge of packing and preparing for bed themselves.

How do you know if your child is ready for a sleepover?

According to Samantha Rodman, a clinical psychologist, there are a number of signs to keep in mind. Readiness for a sleepover is highly dependent on the individual child. According to Rodman, “If a child does well when traveling and sleeping in other beds, that is a good sign. If they are independent and view the sleepover as an adventure, allow them to try it out. Kids with social anxiety may be more hesitant and try later than other kids. Overall, by fourth grade most kids will be ready to sleep at a good friend’s house.”

Before the sleepover In his book Protecting the Gift, Gavin DeBecker recommends treating the family of a potential sleepover with as much scrutiny as you would a babysitter. One easy way to accomplish this is to insist that before you send your child on a sleepover, that child spend the night at your home. This gives you a chance to get to know the family and find out more about them. Even if it’s a family you know well you will want to verify details, such as who will be home on the night of the sleepover, whether there are guns in the house, and what types of media are allowed.

Discuss your expectations with your child in advance. Of course you want your child to use their best manners, to go to bed when expected, and to use polite table manners. But it is equally important that your kids know that they can call you at any time if they are uncomfortable.

During the sleepover Most children will be happy with the additional time to play together. But if you want something more structured when you host, try a themed sleepover. Maybe it’s a movie night or baking night. Or perhaps an indoor camping party is more your child’s style.

After the sleepover Discuss how the sleepover went afterward. What were the ups and downs? This information can help you plan the next sleepover or let you know if there’s anything you need to discuss with the other parents.

Plan for an easy following day. Most kids don’t sleep much on the night of a sleepover. They stay up well past bedtime and often are up at the crack of dawn due to the excitement. It’s better to plan a sleepover when your child can rest and recover the next day than to have to attend an important event with a crabby child.

With a little preparation it is possible not only to survive your children’s sleepovers but help your children make great memories.

By keeping these ideas in mind next time your child asks for a sleepover you can do your best to ensure that your child has a good experience.

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School 2730 53rd Terrace SW  Naples, FL 34116  239.455.2262

www.saintelizabethseton.com

you’re invited!

Making a World of Difference since 1981. Grades PK3 - 8

YOU’RE INVITED! SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE Sunday, Jan. 26, 2020 from 10:00am – 1:30pm Tour our campus and meet our amazing teachers and staff.

See first-hand what a difference a quality Catholic education can make in the life of your child. You can afford it! Scholarships available.

Register to win a $1000 tuition voucher for 2020-2021 school year!

SHALOM YELADIM! A free program for parents and children ages 2-4.

Through crafts, play, yoga, music and fun, kids will begin to learn about Judaism.

Temple Shalom membership is not required.

Interfaith families welcome!

Sundays - 9:00am - 11:30am 1/26, 2/23, 3/22, 4/26 Register at tinyurl.com/shalomyeladim

This program is generously supported by the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples

4630 Pine Ridge Rd. • Naples, FL 34119 239-455-3030 • ReligiousSchool@naplestemple.org

Keeping kids healthy!

Emily Belanus, PA, is now accepting new patients.

To schedule an appointment, please call 239-658-3000 or visit www.healthcareswfl.org 1008 Goodlette-Frank Road, Suite 100 | Naples, FL 34102 Providing Quality Healthcare for All Since 1977

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Keeping track of which restaurants offer free (or discounted) kid’s meals is an impossible task for parents, so we’ve done the legwork for you. Check the details below for each restaurant, as days and purchase requirements vary, even among different locations of some of the chains. We’d love to hear about other restaurants in Naples where kids can eat for free, so please share with us at info@neafamily.com.

AGAVE FAMILY FIESTA NIGHT

D’AMICO & SONS

2380 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples 239-598-3473 Kids receive a free meal with the purchase of an adult entrée on Monday nights.

4691 9th St. N., Naples 239-430-0955 One free kid’s meal with each adult meal purchase 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. on Sundays.

APPLEBEE’S

HURRICANE GRILL & WINGS

5082 Airport Pulling Rd., Naples 239-434-7744 Kids’ meals are $1.99 on Sundays.

BEEF O’BRADY’S 7385 Radio Rd., Naples 34104 239-348-2100 One free kid’s meal with the purchase of an adult entrée on Tuesdays from 4-8 p.m.

BOB EVANS 2570 Northbrooke Plaza Dr., Naples 239-598-5255 One free kid’s meal with each adult entrée purchase on Tuesdays.

BURGER FI 1514 Immokalee Rd., Naples 239-631-5647 12712 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples 239-331-3606 Kids 12 and younger receive a free kid’s meal with the purchase of an adult meal on Tuesdays. In-store orders only.

BURNTWOOD TAVERN 9110 Strada Pl., Naples 239-631-8964 One free kid’s meal with each adult entrée purchase every Monday.

CICIS PIZZA 2650 Immokalee Rd., Naples 239-597-0306 Kids 0-3 eat free every day.

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6345 Naples Blvd. #7, Naples 239-513-9900 One free kid’s meal with the purchase of an adult entrée on Saturdays.

KRUK’S PHILLY STEAKS 6434 Naples Blvd., Naples 239-572-8128 Kids 12 and under eat free with the purchase of an adult meal on Tuesdays from 3-8 p.m.

LOZANO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 405 New Market Rd. E., Immokalee 239-658-9255 Purchase an adult entrée, get one kid’s meal free, on Wednesdays after 3 p.m.

MILLER’S ALE HOUSE

27941 Crown Lake Blvd., Bonita Springs 239-498-0300 One free kid’s meal with the purchase of an adult meal on Tuesdays from 4-10 p.m.

PINCHERS CRAB SHACK 1200 5th Ave. S., Naples 239-434-6616 28580 Bonita Crossings Blvd., Bonita Springs 239-948-1313 One free kid’s meal every day with the purchase of adult entrée $15.99 or more.

RIB CITY 9191 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples 239-591-3500 3871 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples 239-417-9090 Kids under 4 years old receive a free meal with the purchase of each adult meal every day. Dine-in only.

STEAK ‘N’ SHAKE

6320 Hollywood Dr., Naples 239-591-0125 Kids eat free on Tuesdays with the purchase of an adult meal.

2620 Pine Ridge Rd., Naples 239-262-1039 Kids eat free Saturdays and Sundays. Dinein only with the purchase of an adult entrée over $9.

MOE’S SOUTHWEST GRILL

STEVIE TOMATO’S SPORTS PAGE

6434 Naples Blvd., Naples • 239-594-0065 7335 Radio Rd., Naples • 239-352-1212 1016 Immokalee Rd., Naples 239-593-4993 Kids 12 and younger eat free on Sundays with the purchase of an entree.

PERKIN’S RESTAURANT & BAKERY 4335 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples 239-775-8200 3585 Gateway Lane, Naples 239-596-0700

15215 Collier Blvd., Naples 34119 239-352-4266 One free kid’s meal with the purchase of a full-priced adult meal on Mondays.

NEW TEXAS ROADHOUSE

6815 Collier Blvd., Naples 34119 239-417-1111 Kid’s meal price is a penny per inch of the child’s height for kids 12 and younger, with the purchase of a full-priced adult entree on Mondays.

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

Support the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs!

Naples Children’s Business Fair Saturday, Jan. 11 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Gulf Coast High School MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR THE SECOND ANNUAL NAPLES CHILDREN’S BUSINESS FAIR! Support our young entrepreneurs at this fun family festival. Enjoy music, grab lunch and shop 100+ businesses selling items such as: • Handmade hair bows • Unique soap • Homemade cookies • Vegan baked goods • Wildlife and nature photography • …and more!

The Naples Children’s Business Fair is brought to you by the Leadership Collier Foundation of the Greater Naples Chamber in partnership with Collier County Public Schools.

The fair is a cash-only event. A charitable contribution of $5 is suggested for general admission to the event.

www.NaplesChamber.org/childrensbusinessfair Ad space generously provided by:

Sponsored by: Barron Collier Companies, Sunshine Ace Hardware, Waste Management, First Florida Integrity Bank, Naples Daily News, Keiser University, Wintrust Banking Center, Brown & Brown Insurance, Fieldr , Beasley Media

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

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YOUR HOME

By Cheryl Maguire

9 Ways to Save Money Cleaning Your Home

I

’m a frugal germophobe so I am always looking for new ways to save money when buying cleaning products. With the new year soon approaching many of you may have New Year’s resolutions involving saving money, decluttering, or cleaning so this will help you to do all three.

Since I’m also a mom to three children, there is always a spill or mess to clean. A bonus is that many of these cost-saving options are better for the environment.

1. Make your own cleaning products An all-purpose cleaner is easy to make with equal parts vinegar and water. You also can use this solution as a dishwasher rinse agent that is much less costly than Jet-Dry. Vinegar is inexpensive and is both a disinfectant and a deodorizer. You can buy a gallon of it for only a few dollars. I like it because it also is nontoxic. You can make everything from an all-purpose cleaner to laundry detergent.

Visit GoodHouseKeeping.com for simple instructions on how to make several other products.

2. Use coupons and shop sales If you do purchase name brand cleaning supplies often you can find printable coupons on the manufacturer’s website or you could add digital coupons to your store card. If you combine this coupon with a sale you could save a significant amount of money.

3. Buy store brands If you don’t have access to coupons it may be more economical to purchase the store brand. Compare the product ingredients to see if the store brand is equivalent to the name brand.

4. Use energy saving mode On most dishwashers, washers, and dryers there is an energysaving mode. According to the website Energy.gov, “How you operate your appliances can also have a major impact on your savings each month.” The website recommends washing your dishes with a full load, air drying when possible, and scraping (not rinsing) food off your dishes before loading. When washing your clothes, using cold water will save you money.

Covenant Church of Naples Mom’s Morning Out Providing a loving environment for children while offering parents and caregivers a needed break

Session 4 Starts January 14 – Register Now! One- and Two-Day Options Available 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Ages 2-4 years by Jan. 1

6926 Trail Blvd., Naples, FL

239.597.3464

C H U R C H o f N A P L E S | P CA

Visit www.covenantnaples.com/Moms-Morning-Out 40

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Hurry! Space is limited.

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

5. Use less of the product Try to use less than the recommended amount for laundry detergent and dishwasher detergent. Using more soap will not get your dishes or clothes cleaner. In fact, you can harm your appliances by using too much soap.

6. Use rags instead of paper towels Paper towels are expensive, and you throw them away seconds after being used, which is harmful to the environment and your wallet. If you use old towels, burp cloths, or old t-shirts to clean you also are recycling these items.

We buy & sell gently used kids stuff

7. Use boiling water to unclog drains Instead of using chemicals to unclog a drain try boiling water and plunge if necessary. Chemicals are expensive and can erode your pipes.

• Clothing (newborn to size 16), toys, baby furniture, equipment, and more.

• We pay cash on the spot.

• No appointment necessary; clothes must be freshly laundered and brought in a plastic container.

8. Clean sponges in the dishwasher Sponges can accumulate bacteria and since you use your sponge to clean, you need it to be germ-free. One easy way to clean a sponge is to place it in the dishwasher with the rest of your dishes.

Allow your sponge to dry out as often as possible to prevent bacteria growth (moisture increases growth).

13560 Tamiami Trail N. #4, Naples

239-596-6096

Also in: Fort Myers at 239-274-0039 Port Charlotte at 941-764-8121

9. Take your shoes off by the front door By removing shoes before you enter your house you will prevent germs and mud/dirt from getting on the floor, and that is one less mess you will have to clean.

onceuponachildnaples.com

MAKE THE MOST OF PLAYTIME LAUNCH RIGHT IN WITH . . .

a SUPER SPACECRAFT!

GATHER THESE MATERIALS:

Pencil

2 toilet paper tubes

Paper towel tube

2. Draw a rounded 1. Lay a toilet

paper tube on top of a piece of cardboard.

Trace it.

nose to the traced shape. Then draw two rounded triangles for wings.

Small piece of cardboard

Markers or paint

3. Cut out the shape.

Scissors

(with an adult�s help)

Paper

5. Glue your cut tube on top of the cardboard in the shape of a spacecraft, and let it dry.

4. Trace the bottom of a toilet paper tube on top of another. Then cut out the round shape.

6. Color or paint your spacecraft. You

can also decorate it with stickers. Place a small toy inside and go for a ride. Tell a story about where you’re going!

TinkerActive Workbooks cover essential skills using curriculum-based exercises and interactive tinkering, making, and engineering activities using common household materials!

The Active Way to learn through play NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

Visit www.covenantnaples.com/Moms-Morning-Out

Glue

Odd Dot

An imprint of Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group

AVAILABLE WHEREVER BOOKS ARE SOLD

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41

YOUR HEALTH

By Kimberly Blaker

Find a Mental Health Care Provider You Can Trust

Y

ou have reached the difficult decision that you or a member of your family needs a therapist. But what can be even more daunting is finding the right mental health professional. You may not even known where to start.

Should you be faced with a crisis, it is vital to know how to locate a reputable mental health care provider with the expertise you need and whom you can trust. The advice provided here will help guide you to the right therapist.

Finding a trustworthy therapist Begin your search for a mental health professional by asking family or friends for recommendations or obtain a referral from your primary care doctor. You also can contact area clinics for recommendations or consult your yellow pages or online directory. Phone three or four therapists and ask about their credentials, policies, and treatment methods.

Have a list of questions ready to ask, including:

Supporting Your Child’s Success Shouldn’t Break the Bank!

WWW.MATTRESSBYAPPOINTMENT.COM

SAVE 50% TO 80% OFF RETAIL STORE PRICES Call (239) 207-2556 Visit www.covenantnaples.com/Moms-Morning-Out 42

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NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

• What are your areas of expertise?

• How much experience do you have with my particular issues?

• Are you licensed or certified by the state?

• Has your license ever been suspended or revoked? If so, can you tell me about the situation?

• What are your professional affiliations?

• What forms of treatment and therapy do you provide?

What evidence is there to support its effectiveness? Is there controversy among mental health care professionals regarding this treatment?

• What are your fees? Do you accept my insurance or work on a sliding scale?

If you can’t get answers to these basic questions over the phone, look elsewhere.

If you’re satisfied with the therapist’s responses, check with your state licensing department to verify the license status and to make sure no actions have been taken against the therapist.

Evidence-based practice Once you select a provider and begin therapy, continue to be your own advocate. Do your research to assure the validity of your diagnosis or form of therapy or treatment. If you discover contradictions from reputable sources, discuss it with your therapist. It may be a simple misunderstanding or data of which your therapist was unaware. If your therapist rejects the information, ask why and determine if the reason is valid or is based on personal opinion. If it is preventing you from obtaining a proper diagnosis and/or treatment, find a therapist who recognizes those findings.

“Your therapist is obligated not to take advantage of you, either intentionally or unintentionally through negligence or ignorance, and to act only in your best interests,” explained Jack Engler, Ph.D., and Daniel Goleman, Ph.D., in The Consumer’s Guide to Psychotherapy: The Authoritative Guide for Making Informed Choices About All Types of Psychotherapy.

Mental health care ethics There are certain rules set by state licensing divisions as well as the American Psychological Association and other mental health associations that providers must follow. Be aware that mental health care providers may not: • Disclose information about you without prior written consent or even verify that you are being seen by the therapist except under certain situations, such as when child abuse is reported.

• Suggest that you do something that is undeniably harmful, immoral, or illegal.

• Treat you for or offer services that are outside his or her area of expertise.

• Offer experimental or unproven therapies without informing you of such.

• Make sexual advances whether you approve of them or not.

• Treat you if you have any kind of relationship with the therapist outside of therapy.

• Degrade you because of your values or problems or pressure you to change your values.

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

Most people have a positive experience with their therapist.

Handling ethics violations and negligence If you feel your rights have been violated or your therapist has treated you with negligence, there are several options. If the violations are minor, you might want to discuss the problem with your therapist. You also can seek a second opinion to determine whether the situation is a misunderstanding or warrants a valid complaint.

If your complaint seems valid and is serious enough, you can file a formal complaint with the appropriate ethics committee or with the state licensing or certification board. This is an important step if there is concern that someone else might be harmed by the therapist’s practices.

Finally, if your therapist acted negligently, rather than just unethically, a civil malpractice suit may be in order.

Remember though, most people have positive experiences with their therapist. By doing your homework and being your own advocate, you can have a successful outcome as well.

A Comprehensive Approach We provide comprehensive care and customized treatment planning for children, adolescents, and adults. Through our whole person/whole family approach, our trained therapists and psychiatry providers can help clients overcome a wide variety of psychological issues.

Our Care Services Include: Psychiatry Psychotherapy Speech Therapy Occupational Therapy TeleTherapy Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation

Locations Throughout SWFL Naples Cape Coral Fort Myers Port Charlotte Lehigh Acres Venice

We Accept all Insurances Contact us: 239-223-2751 www.elitednatherapy.com facebook.com/DNAKidsTherapy

@elitednatherapy

@therapy_dna

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43

TRAVEL

By Karen T. Bartlett

Where the Wild Things are Saved

H

alf a century ago, goblins, monsters, and other fanged, hairy beasts leaped off the pages of Maurice Sendak’s books and into the hearts of millions of children. To the author, every wild thing is magical and, in its own way, kindhearted. We can’t hug all of them, maybe, but like Max, the young hero of Where the Wild Things Are, whose wild antics in a wolf costume gets him in big trouble, we want to celebrate their wildness, understand them a little, love them, and take care of them when they’re hurt.

Southwest Florida has some of the finest hospitals and sanctuaries for our own wild things, and we’re allowed to visit. Here’s a sampling. What a wild and wonderful way to start a brand new year!

Naples author KAREN T. BARTLETT is the travel editor of Neapolitan Family. The page below is from her book, A (mostly) Kids’ Guide to Naples, Marco Island & The Everglades, Second Edition. For more information, visit mostlykidsguides.com.

ShyWolves Wolves&&Screaming ScreamingCats!

Cats!

Shy TwoExotic ExoticAnimal AnimalSanctuaries Sanctuaries Two

Forgetabout aboutthe theBig BigBad BadWolf!

Wolf!

Forget The rescued wolves and wolf dogs come ShyWolf WolfSanctuary Sanctuary The rescued wolves and wolf dogs come toto thethe Shy and hurt.Here, Here, they lotsofoflove love and care, and they givelove love sadsad and hurt. they getget lots and care, and they give rightback. back.

The sanctuary also rescues prairiedogs, dogs, coyotes, right The sanctuary also rescues prairie coyotes, foxes and other way-cool creatures. foxes and other way-cool creatures.

How can you tell a wolf’s howl from a coyote’s?

Q.Q.How can you tell a wolf’s howl from a coyote’s? wolf’s howl longer and deeper!

A.A.A Awolf’s howl is is longer and deeper!

Whyare arethese theseplaces placescalled calledsanctuaries? sanctuaries?

Why Well, some people raise a cute little baby wolf, a fox, even a python Well, some people trytry toto raise a cute little baby wolf, oror a fox, oror even a python home, but then it grows and isn’t cuddly anymore.

Sometimes they abandon these exoticpets pets keep at at home, but then it grows upup and isn’t soso cuddly anymore.

Sometimes they abandon these exotic oror keep them in tiny cages and stop loving them.

A sanctuary is a safe place where they can live happy lives. them in tiny cages and stop loving them. A sanctuary is a safe place where they can live happy lives.

You can visitthese these sanctuaries freeif ifyou youcall callahead. ahead.

You can visit sanctuaries forfor free eans mns mea rd rd n wo n wo erica erica AmAm ative NatNive t.”t.” ca ca g g in in am am re re sc sc ig ig “b“b

Kowia-WHAT? Kowia-WHAT?

44

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Pot-belliedpigs, pigs,tigers, tigers, Pot-bellied Ieopards and other bigcats cats Ieopards and other big live here, too, but there’s not much live here, too, but there’s not much screaming going except maybe screaming going on,on, except maybe parrots. byby thethe parrots.

Damaris Gonzalez Damaris Gonzalez

Want hug a skunk?

Want toto hug a skunk?

PetPet anan iguana?

Cuddle with a python iguana?

Cuddle with a python you are?

You can, asas talltall asas you are?

You can, at at KowiachobeeAnimal Animal Kowiachobee Preserve!

Preserve!

Don’t worry; Don’t worry; theirskunk skunk their isn’t stinky! isn’t stinky!

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

35 35

Awesome Local Places Where Wild and Exotic Animals are Nursed Back to Health and/or Sheltered for Life The Conservancy of Southwest Florida With its intensive care unit, operating room, and rehab facilities for critically ill and injured wild patients and its nursery for orphaned baby critters, the von Arx Wildlife Hospital serves more than 3,700 animals each year. A film made inside the hospital, as well as a special one-way glass viewing window allow guests to see the hospital team caring for their patients. In the brand new Sapakie Wildlife Hall, young guests can meet Dr. Ollie Owl, be a pretend veterinarian (lab coat, stethoscope, and all), and learn about Florida’s wild creatures through special programs and interactive exhibits. At the von Arx Wildlife Viewing Pavilion and in the Dalton Discovery Center, guests get to meet real live animal ambassadors and learn their stories. Visit conservancy.org or call 239-262-0304.

The Center for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) The state-of-the-art animal hospital, with its sophisticated xray equipment, operating rooms, and even a special hospital bed for each kind of creature, cares for the most critically injured Florida wildlife. Its patients range from giant loggerhead sea turtles to our world-famous bald eagle family, the offspring of Harriet and her mate M15. CROW treats more than 4,000 wild animals each year. We can’t go into the hospital, but we can watch live patient cams, read the veterinarians’ charts, play interactive games like Surgical Challenge, and so much more in the visitor center. Visit crowclinic.org or call 239-472-3644.

B

Left: A squirrel receives treatment in the von Arx Wildlife Hospital at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida in Naples. Photo by Greg Willette. Above: Emerson Housewert feeds a flamingo at Everglades Wonder Gardens in Bonita Springs. Photo by Beth Housewert.

Everglades Wonder Gardens One of Florida’s oldest and quirkiest roadside tourist attractions, this re-imagined 80-year-old botanical jungle is the forever home to a variety of rescued birds and reptiles. Guests can cozy up to a free-roaming flock of flamingoes, especially when a fistful of tasty flamingo food is involved. While the jungle and gardens are being beautifully preserved and enhanced, luckily the turn of the century quirk factor remains. Visit evergladeswondergardens.com or call 239-992-2591.

A Jaguar in the Kitchen?

est known to long-time Neapolitans as Safari Jane, Nancy Tetzlaff reveals what it was like to literally live with real-life wild things from Africa in her just-published book, Jaguar in the Kitchen. Nancy and her husband, “Jungle Larry,” created the entity that has become one of the leading accredited zoos in America that cares for critically endangered species and supports conservation efforts around the

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

world. Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens recently opened its on-site Glass Animal Hospital and Smith Animal Commissary. Besides serving its own zoo population, the new hospital will care for injured or abandoned Florida panthers in collaboration with U.S. and state wildlife agencies.

For additional information, visit napleszoo.org or call 239-262-5409. neafamily.com

45

Are you troubled by someone’s drinking?

CHILD CARE SERVICES

Help & hope are just a phone call away.

Masters Degree CPR, First Aid Certified Clean driving and FBI record Day/Evening/Overnight

Al-Anon/Alateen

239-263-5907 NaplesAl-Anon.org

239-631-3041

Ms. Lorel

is happy to introduce a complete

Children’s Birthday

Package!!!

Need to get out of the house this weekend?

We will furnish:

18 Holes of Golf Plates, forks, napkins & candles Tables & Chairs Drinks: Coke, Sprite, etc.

Only $10.00 per person Bi (the Birthday Child is Free and gets 1 year of free golf) These figures are based upon a minimum of 10 people. We will require 10 days notice.

Thank you!

2205 E. Tamiami Trail Naples, FL 34112

(239) 793-4999 www.coralcaygolf.com

Neapolitan Family’s Weekly E-News puts an end to weekend boredom.

Find the best bets for local family entertainment.

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neafamily.com 46

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239-263-7017

One month of FREE classes, with a regular membership, when you mention this ad!

Classes available for ages 3 to adult.

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

lion cubs Now on exhibit

NAPLESZOO.ORG

Traveling Art Exhibition at Naples Zoo Over 50 Large Format Images

Now through 4/19/20 Free with paid Zoo admission.

This Exhibition is organized by the National Geographic Society and the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, Omaha. © Photos by Joel Sartore/National Geographic Photo Ark.

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

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Come to play, learn, and explore in the Little Explorer Play Zone! Kids can discover the incredible animals of Southwest Florida as they crawl through a gopher tortoise burrow, run through a mangrove forest, and try on a pair of wings. www.conservancy.org/nature-center/little-explorers

Little Explorer Programs are now every Thursday at 10 a.m.

Most enjoyed by ages 5 and younger. No registration required.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2020

1495 Smith Preserve Way x Naples, FL 34102 x 239.262.0304 x www.conservancy.org