Neapolitan Family Magazine April 2017 digital file

April 2017 neafamily.com

COMPLIMENTARY

Summer Camp!

Summer Camp Directory Options for Kids With Special Needs Dealing with Homesickness Why Sleepaway Camp?

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

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NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

BECAUSE TREATMENT IS REALLY WHAT THEY NEED Every day, Sheriff Rambosk’s deputies are encountering more people with mental illness and addiction – many of them children, teens and young adults. Helping them stay safe and receive the treatment they desperately need is why the Sheriff’s Office partners with David Lawrence Center.

Kevin Rambosk, Collier Sheriff, DLC Board Member Scott Burgess, DLC CEO

David Lawrence Center needs your donation to meet the rising demand in our community for mental health and addiction treatment especially for children and adolescents – before life-threatening actions and legal problems plague their futures.

You can save lives. Help keep Southwest Florida healthy and safe by ensuring the David Lawrence Center’s comprehensive services are available to all in need – treatment that’s a far better alternative to jail. Please donate today.

Call us or make a gift online at:

DavidLawrenceCenter.org

239.354.1419 DONATE NOW TO SAVE OUR CHILDREN’S LIVES...AND FUTURES NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

D O N AT E O N L I N E :

DavidLawrenceCenter.org NAPLES

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IMMOKALEE

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April 2017 TABLE OF CONTENTS

in every issue . . .

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

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REEL LIFE WITH JANE Movie reviews for the entire family

10

CITY CONNECTION City of Naples Parks News and Events

11

COLLIER COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT UPDATE

12

COLLIER COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE Community safety

17

THE OUTNUMBERED MOTHER Advice from Amy Hunter

23

FAMILY LAW Guidance from legal experts

25

RACHEL RECOMMENDS Books reviews for kids by a kid

18

Locally Grown Entrepreneurs. Kids get first-hand experience in capitalism at the Children’s Business Fair.

by Anna Snyder

20

Groceries Online. It’s every parent’s dream: skip the grocery store and shop from your couch.

by Leigh Tahirovic

24

Earth Day. Save money and help the environment by making your own cleaning products at home.

by Tiffany Doerr Guerzon

26

Destination: St. Augustine, Palm Island, and Estero. Start planning a special Mother’s Day trip now to see more of our beautiful state.

by Karen T. Bartlett

Our Guide to Summer Camp!

42

Overnight Camp.

Look beyond the activities and s’mores and understand what kids are really getting out of sleepaway camp.

by Adam Knechtel

43

Homesick at Camp?

How to prevent and deal with homesickness at summer camp.

by Christa Melnyk Hines

44

Summer Camp for Kids with Special Needs. Learn about your local options, and how to pick the best one for your child.

by Anna Snyder

46

2017 Summer Camp Directory. A guide to the best summer camps.

on the cover…

Gabriel and Victor are the sons of Alan and Van Obregon of Naples The boys will turn 3 years old in May. They love books, music, cars, swimming, and helping Mommy cook. They had a blast during their cover shoot at the Conservancy, “driving” a boat and learning about the creatures in the touch tank.

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

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NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

The Only 24 Hour Pediatric Emergency Department in Collier County Always Open, Close To Home

Robert, Mariann & Megan MacDonald

Pediatric Emergency Department

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NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

from the publisher… the parenting magazine devoted to collier county

P.O. Box 110656 Naples, FL 34108 info@neafamily.com Co-Publisher Stacy Nicolau advertising, marketing, social media, editorial snicolau@neafamily.com 239-370-5333 Co-Publisher Leigh Ann Newman graphic design, accounting, editorial lanewman@neafamily.com 239-272-0529 Travel Editor Karen T. Bartlett mostlykidsguides@gmail.com 239-595-9026 Feature Writers Anna Snyder Leigh Tahirovic Cover Photographer Peggy Farren

THIS MONTH: Summer Camp

I remember the first time my then nine year-old asked me if she could go to sleepaway camp for the summer. “No way,” I said, without even considering it. I couldn’t imagine sending any of my little ones off to another town or state without me to oversee their care. “Why would anyone be okay with that?” I wondered.

After a lot of persistence, followed by encouragement from my sister whose child attended the camp in question, I agreed to let her go the following summer after she turned 10.

I should have let her go sooner.

After her first summer camp session, she returned home peaceful and refreshed from spending three weeks in the mountains of North Carolina trying new experiences and making new friends, all without the crutch of portable electronics. She talked about camp every day until it was time to return the following summer.

So, I sent her back, along with her brother and, eventually, her younger sister.

Few of us have the luxury to spend the entire summer at home entertaining our children. And if you do, it is still a good idea to plan a few structured days or weeks of fun around the lazy days of summer. Fortunately, there are tons of fun summer camp options for kids to choose from to learn new sports or skills while making new friends. Summer camps can range from a couple of hours per day to a full day, or even a day or week at an overnight camp.

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.

Our summer camp directory on page 46 focuses on everything you need to know to pick the perfect camp for your children. If you would like to talk to some of the camp directors in person, join us at the Mercato Summer Camp Fair on April 9, where several area camps will have additional information and on-location sign ups.

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 which is fraudulent or misleading in nature.

On page 44, Anna Snyder highlights local camp options that will ensure that children with special needs can have an awesome summer, too.

While you are busy planning your summer, don’t forget to turn to our event calendar on page 30 to plan April, too. There are many opportunities to visit the Easter Bunny and participate in an eggcellent easter egg hunt, and a few Passover Seders to choose from as well. Don’t forget to celebrate the earth at the Conservancy on April 22 for its annual Earth Day Festival.

Happy Easter, Happy Passover, and Happy Earth Day! We have a lot to celebrate in April!

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 ©2017 by Neapolitan Family Publishing. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

Stacy neafamily.com

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REEL LIFE WITH JANE

By Jane Louise Boursaw

Family Movie & DVD Reviews New movies for kids and teens in April include a story about a gifted girl, a new Smurfs movie, and an animated tale about a space-traveling monkey. Note that release dates are subject to change.

SMURFS: THE LOST VILLAGE

SPARK

Rated PG for some mild action and rude humor In Theaters 4/7 • Ok for kids 6+ Reel Preview: 3 of 5 Reels

Rated PG for some mild action and rude humor In Theaters 4/14 • Ok for kids 7+ Reel Preview: 3.5 of 5 Reels

In this animated, all-new take on the Smurfs, a mysterious map sets Smurfette and her best friends Brainy, Clumsy, and Hefty on an exciting and thrilling race through the Forbidden Forest filled with magical creatures to find a mysterious lost village before the evil wizard Gargamel does. Embarking on a rollercoaster journey full of action and danger, the Smurfs are on a course that leads to the discovery of the biggest secret in Smurf history! Directed by Kelly Asbury, this cute installment features the voice talent of Demi Lovato, Rainn Wilson, Julia Roberts, and more.

The action-packed, humor, and heart-filled “Spark” follows a teenage monkey Spark, voiced by Jace Norman (Nickelodeon’s “Henry Danger”), and his friends Vix, a battle-ready fox voiced by Jessica Biel, and Chunk, a tech-savvy warthog, as they embark on a mission to take back the besieged Planet Bana from the power-mad General Zhong. Spark’s dangerous odyssey leads him to the farthest reaches of the universe, and to the secret of his true identity, with characters like the comically forgetful nanny robot Bananny, voiced by Susan Sarandon, and the noble, self-sacrificing Queen, voiced by Hilary Swank, by his side.

GIFTED Rated PG for thematic elements, language, and some suggestive material In Theaters 4/7 • Ok for kids 13+ Reel Preview: 4 of 5 Reels Frank Adler (Chris Evans) is a single man raising a child prodigy – his spirited young niece Mary (Mckenna Grace) in a coastal town in Florida. Frank’s plans for a normal school life for Mary are foiled when

the seven-year-old’s mathematical abilities come to the attention of Frank’s formidable mother Evelyn (Lindsay Duncan) whose plans for her granddaughter threaten to separate Frank and Mary. Octavia Spencer plays Roberta, Frank and Mary’s landlady and best friend. Jenny Slate is Mary’s teacher, Bonnie, a young woman whose concern for her student develops into a connection with her uncle as well. Directed

by Marc Webb.

JANE’S REEL RATING SYSTEM One Reel–Even the Force can’t save it.

Two Reels–Coulda been a contender.

Three Reels–Something to talk about.

Four Reels–You want the truth? Great flick.

Five Reels–Wow. The stuff dreams are made of.

JANE BOURSAW is the film critic and editor-in-chief of Reel Life With Jane. Images used with permission of the studios and distributors.

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Hours: 7AM-6PM Begins: June 5th 2017 Free Enrollment!

Call 239-261-7442 Weekly field trips including Sun & Fun Lagoon, Seagate Park, the Movie Theater, the Children’s Museum, The Imaginarium, and more! Small group sizes for one on one instruction and activities. Summer review and curriculum to keep minds active, exploring, and learning while having fun. Join us this summer for adventure, excitement, and making memories that last. Certified teachers, private facility with cameras, gated entry, and snacks included.

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CITY CONNECTION PARKS DEPT. By Laura Tichy-Smith

Active April in Naples

April is a great time to enjoy our city parks at these programs and events offered by the City of Naples Community Services Department.

Free Tuesday Morning Nature Talks 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 seven. All talks start at 10 a.m. Tuesdays. The schedule is: April 4: “What’s in a name?”; April 11: Gopher tortoise habitat restoration at Barefoot Beach Preserve; April 18: Orchid research at Naples Botanical Garden; April

25: Flying jewels in the sky. Call 239-2614290. (1690 Tamiami Trail N., corner of US 41 & Fleischmann Blvd.)

Improv Comedy Classes/ Mini Workshops: Ages 16+ Have fun, laugh, and learn the basic rules of improvisational comedy with improv professional Margot Escott. Try a two-hour Mini Improv workshop or join ongoing weekly classes to learn new games and practice skills you can apply to everyday life. Escott has been teaching and performing improv professionally in Southwest Florida for the past five years.

Class is 10 a.m. to noon from April 1-22. $25 per session. Call 239-213-3037. (301 11th Street N., Naples) Baby Fitness (18 months+) Instill healthy habits for life in your toddler by attending the drop-in class called Mommy and Me Open Gym on Fridays, 10-11:30 a.m. $5 per child. For more information, call 239-213-3020. (1600 Fleischmann Blvd., Naples) School’s Out Fun Day for Elementary School Kids Need childcare when school is closed but you have to work? Fleischmann Park has

you covered. They have planned fun activities for your child’s day off from school on Monday, April 17, including crafts, games, and sports, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Send lunch and snacks with your child.

You must register no later than two weeks prior to the event. Space is limited. $30 per child. To register, call 239-213-3020.

(1600 Fleischmann Blvd., Naples) Free Concerts at the Bandshell Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park.

All concerts at 2 p.m. Naples Concert Band on April 2; Gulfcoast Big Band, April 9; Naples Dixieland Jazz Band, April 16; and Naples Dixieland Jazz Band on April 30. For additional information, call 239-213-3058. (755 Eighth Ave. S., Naples) Parents’ Night Out Hosted by Miss Cricket Want a Friday night out? Miss Cricket, the gymnastics and after-school instructor at Fleischmann Park, hosts dinner, games, and a big screen movie, which means a tired kid for you to pick up. April 21, 6-9:30 p.m.; $20. Pre-registration required. Call 239-213-3020. (1600 Fleischmann Blvd., Naples)

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COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

By Amanda Jackson, Communications & Community Engagement

Design Students Moving a Step Ahead

T

echnical Design students at Barron Collier High School (BCH) were recently given an unique assignment. Create something that you think will increase revenue at the Naples Grande Beach Resort. A large task for high school juniors and seniors, which requires them to think creatively — and with business in mind. After completing their projects, students presented to local architects, contractors, and the director of operations from the Naples Grande.

Students had a wide variety of ideas.

From observation decks, movie theaters, private outdoor suites, and zip lines, there was a great deal of creativity.

“My idea was a café to hold corporate meetings and potentially for students to do school work,” says BCH junior Caleb Froitzheim. “Knowing my generation, Starbucks reaches out to kids my age.

When you go to the beach it relaxes you, so doing schoolwork at the beach, that makes everything easier.”

The students first laid out their ideas on the architecture design software Revit, in which they are all certified. They built everything on the computer and then created renderings (real life images) of their buildings. Afterward, they got to work constructing a model to scale off of the computer.

They compiled their work into a three-minute presentation, combining architecture, engineering, and interior design.

Afterward, local professionals provided feedback and asked questions from their own personal experience.

“I think it went well,” Froitzheim said. “I didn’t get as many questions as my classmates. I’m not sure if that’s a good thing because I explained it so well or bad because they didn’t understand it. But I think it went great.”

To Technical Design teacher Howard Berryman, completing the project is only somewhat beneficial. It’s the presentation and community involvement that he finds the most valuable.

“These are our advanced kids,” Berryman explained. “They’ve built models of houses, and attended architecture shows and wood-building competitions. I’ve had to think outside the box. What else can we present to people to get them interested in our program?”

To do this, Berryman gets students presenting in front of local professionals multiple times before graduation. He makes sure students provide resumes and take business cards, cultivating relationships that students can access in the future.

“These students are the future of Collier County,” he said. “They’re our future employees. It’s important for these employers to see the potential of students coming to them in the future.”

“Meeting different professionals through Mr. Berryman has really helped me form a future idea of the kind of job I want,” Froitzheim added. “It puts me a step ahead. I’m not going into college and the professional world blind.”

SUMMERDANCE 2017 Sibling

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This summer we will offer weekly thematic five day dance camps for children Ages 3-8. Our structured, fun-filled camps will include multiple styles of dance, arts & crafts and other fun dance activities that will keep your dancer focused and leave them with happy memories and a wonderful summer experience. Crafts and a camp T-shirt are included. Each week will conclude with an In-Studio demonstration, so plan to bring your cameras!

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Start the Fun at www.NaplesSummerCamp.com NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

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COLLIER COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE By Kristine Gill

Protecting Your Child From Online Dangers

I

t can be overwhelming to think about protecting your children from online dangers. Daily changes to technology make it difficult to keep up with the latest apps and trends. And it’s impossible to monitor your child’s every move out in cyberspace.

But there are still actions parents can take to reduce the risks. Detective Sgt. Wade Williams of the Exploitation Section of our Special Crimes Bureau at the Collier County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) has some tips.

While child predators are often the first to come to mind when you think of internet dangers, that’s not the most common threat, according to Williams. What’s most commonly at stake these days is your child’s “digital citizenship.” That includes all of the personal information they volunteer online that later could have a negative impact.

“Taking pictures while consuming alcohol or posting socially irresponsible things online. These are the things that can affect being on a college sports team or getting a job later in life,” Williams said.

“And it’s very difficult to get it off the internet.”

The second most common threat is a child’s peers: classmates who bully them through social media; other teens who circulate incriminating photos of a friend; sexting; even habits of internet usage that can lead to depression.

And the third, and least likely danger for kids, is child predators: adults or even older teens who solicit minors using online communication.

To prevent everything from depression to sex crimes, Detective Williams has two major pieces of advice. The first is to restrict your child’s internet usage when possible and to limit the number and types of apps they use. The second is simply to talk to your kid.

“Having good conversations with them about making responsible choices online can make a difference,” he said.

Here’s a list of other tips you can start using now: • Make social media accounts “private.”

• Don’t accept “friends” that you do not know personally.

• Don’t send any inappropriate photographs or messages that you would not want made public.

• Don’t post about financial, marital, relationship, or other personal problems.

• Password protect the installation or deletion of applications and review every application.

• Limit the number of social media accounts/applications that allow communications, including gaming apps.

• Install some type of parental monitoring application and/or set the security restrictions on the device, and tell your children that it is there. We do not recommend installing secret spy apps on your child’s device.

• Tell your children that a smartphone, tablet, or other electronic device is a privilege, not a right.

• Spot check your child’s electronic devices.

All social media service providers have a User Licensing Agreement that all users must agree to before utilizing their service. If you see content that is malicious, offensive, or harassing, you should report this to the social media provider.

Report suspected criminal activity immediately to CCSO before reporting to the social media service provider since digital evidence can be gone in an instant and there are steps that need to be taken by detectives to preserve evidence. However, if you are concerned about your identity in making the report, you can always report anonymously to Crimestoppers or the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 800-843-5678 or cybertipline.com.

Contact the CCSO to report emergency situations, especially those involving possible sex crimes.

to schedule your complimentary consultation!

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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

Conservancy of SWFL Hosts Earth Day Festival on April 22

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rom electric boat tours to live animal shows to live music and great food, the Conservancy’s annual Earth Day Festival offers a full day of fun and educational eco-friendly activities on April 22 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Conservancy Nature Center, located at 1495 Smith Preserve Way in Naples.

“Our Earth Day Festival provides a fun day for all ages and a family-friendly atmosphere for our community to celebrate the Earth, while learning about the unique qualities of nature that make the world we live in so special,” said Rob Moher, president and CEO of the Conservancy. “As our biggest community celebration of the year, we are pleased to have the opportunity to share our love for the Earth with people of all ages, and hope to instill our commitment to preserving its natural beauty within the minds of our guests as well.”

Activities this year include Glen Beitman of “Super Science and Amazing Art.” Children will have the opportunity to participate in science experiments throughout the day in the Kids’ Zone.

There will be hands-on activities with Snapology Legos Presents “Nature’s Super Transformers.” Guests can enjoy live music, a variety of food vendors, a bounce house, and more.

For the youngest guests, the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples (C’mon) will be hosting special familyfriendly day-long activities. The Little Explorer Play Zone and Jr. Vet Lab will be open for play for children under six and the Kids’ Zone will feature a variety of activities, including games, crafts, face painting, and sand art.

Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children, and free for children under two years old. Admission is free for Conservancy members. For a full schedule of events, visit www.Conservancy.org/ EarthDay. Earth Day Festival sponsors include Naples Daily News, Florida Weekly, D’Latinos, Hertz, and Whole Foods.

The Conservancy of Southwest Florida is a not-for-profit environmental protection organization with a 50-year history focused on the issues impacting the water, land wildlife, and the future of Collier, Lee, Charlotte, Hendry, and Glades counties.

For more information, visit www.conservancy.org.

4630 Pine Ridge Rd

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

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Camp begins June 5th Early pick-up available Flexible camp hours neafamily.com

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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

5K, Yoga, and Free Family Fun Event to Benefit Wellfit Girls

W

ellfit Girls Program, a local nonprofit focused on leadership and empowerment training for high school girls, is hosting its 2nd Annual To(tu) Run and family day on Saturday, April 15 at North Collier Regional Park. The event raises funds to support scholarships to participate in Wellfit.

The schedule for the day includes: 7:15 a.m., 5k Run & Walk; 8 a.m., One-Mile Fun Run; 9 a.m., Adult Power Vinyasa Yoga; 9:15 a.m., Free Kids Yoga; and 10 a.m., Free Easter Egg Hunt.

To register, visit wellfitgirls.org. For sponsorship opportunities, call Colby Hazewinkel, executive director, at 239-529-0366 or email colby@wellfitgirls.org.

Wellfit Girls is a unique five-month leadership, fitness, and empowerment program for teen girls in Collier and Lee Counties.

The program culminates in a 10-day expedition to Peru where the girls do community service, trek above 15,000 feet, and visit Machu Picchu. In addition to serving as a fundraiser, the To(tu) 5k serves as a stepping stone in getting the girls physically and mentally prepared for the expedition to Peru. This will be the first 5k for most of the participants. In keeping with the name of the event, everyone is encouraged to wear a tutu during the run and to stick around for the Easter festivities.

Two Naples Students Shine at Solar Cooking Competition

T

wo homeschool students from Naples recently took home awards for first and third place finishes at the Solar Cooking Competition at the Energy Whiz Expo hosted by FPL in Parrish, and qualified for the state-wide competition in May. Nicole Rearden, 10, and Cecilia Grove, 11 – the only Collier County students in the competition – captured first place in the Culinary category for the dishes they created and third place in the Design category for their box cooker. The girls cooked a veggie frittata in their box oven, which reached a temperature of 300 degrees and was made out of recycled boxes, Styrofoam for insulation, a

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NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

clear oven bag for the window, and a mylar camping blanket for sun reflectors. They made Mexican quinoa in a panel cooker, using a windshield reflector and a glass jar painted black. They also baked lemon cupcakes topped with strawberries and whipped cream.

The girls worked for about a month, getting together once a week to design and test their cookers, according to Michele Rearden, Nicole’s mother. “Nicole made at least eight cookers, and none of them got hot enough to cook, until we tried the windshield reflector.

You should have seen the dance party and heard the squeals, when after a few weeks of failed recipes, we finally poured cooked quinoa out of the jar! Cecilia’s box cooker was amazing, and has cooked a variety of dishes now. The girls certainly learn a lot through their success and their failures,” Michele Rearden said.

Two Flanagan-O’Hare Dancers Qualify for World Championships

T

wo dancers from the FlanaganO’Hare School of Irish Dance in Naples will compete in the World Irish Dancing Championships in April in Dublin, Ireland.

Kaitlin Creedon (on left in the photo) of Marco Island has been Irish dancing since the age of seven, and now at 15 years old she will travel to Dublin, to compete at the world championships for the first time. Kaitlin reached her goal of qualifying for worlds at the Southern Regional Championships in Baltimore, Md., in December. A sophomore at Marco Island Academy, Kaitlin’s family on her mother’s side can trace their roots back to County Cork.

Kaitlin will be joined by another Flanagan-O’Hare student.

Cameron Tovin is 14 years old and a freshman at Cypress Bay High School in Weston. Cameron has been an Irish dancer since the age of four, and has competed at the highest level both nationally and internationally. She has qualified for the World Irish Dance Championships four times, and the North American National Championships five times. Cameron studied Irish fiddle for six years, and was recently awarded the 2017 CCIAC Richard Mahigan Scholarship from the Cape Coral Irish American Club.

Kaitlin has established a gofundme.com account to raise money for her travel expenses. Search for Kaitlin Creedon on www. gofundme.com.

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

Dance Arts by Maria

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Offering classes for ages 2-18 in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Lyrical, Pointe, Technique and Improv

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Volunteers Sought for Collier and Lee Junior Achievement Programs

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olunteers are needed to lead both traditional Junior Achievement (JA) as well as JA in a Day programs. Traditional programs encompass weekly 45-minute classroom visits over a five- to seven-week period. JA in a Day programs include one half-day program, typically offered from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Volunteers teach fun-filled, easy-to-follow lessons, sharing their expertise in business, personal finance and career preparation with the students. Participants of all ages and walks of life are eligible to teach JA’s curriculum in elementary, middle, and high school classes in Collier, Lee, and Charlotte counties.

Volunteers are accepted year-round and are provided with all necessary supplies and comprehensive training.

“I feel as if I truly changed many young lives,” said volunteer Judith Yevick. “I can’t wait to lead another JA program – it was incredibly rewarding.”

In addition to in-classroom volunteers, Junior Achievement is also looking for businesses that are interested in “adopting” a school, grade level, or classroom, which involves providing financial support for JA program materials and the option of volunteering to share the Junior Achievement message.

Visit www.jaswfl.org or call 239-225-2590. To volunteer in Collier County, contact John Telischak at jtelischak@jaswfl. org. To volunteer in Lee County, contact Lysa Kennedy at lkennedy@jaswfl.org.

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Seacrest Robotics Team Wins Regionals, Qualifies for Worlds

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eacrest Country Day School’s Upper School robotics team beat 60 other teams to win the Orlando FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Regional robotics tournament last month. The team is now raising funds to attend the FIRST World Championship in Houston, Texas, April 19-22, including hosting a Cars & Coffee AutoShow on Saturday, April 1 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Seacrest’s Lower School robotics team is advancing to the Florida State Championship in May 6, and they won a Directors Award that qualifies them for the Razorback Invitational in Fayetteville, Arkansas, May 18-21.

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

ASK THE OUTNUMBERED MOTHER

By Amy Hunter

Advice on getting kids to eat and effective discipline

Amy Hunter grew up in the suburbs of Long Island singing Barbara Streisand hits into her hairbrush. When she’s not writing her hilarity-fueled parenting memoir as The Outnumbered Mother, she’s a Naples-living, butt-wiping, soccer-team carting, gourmet-chef attempting, tennis-skirt wearing, non-tennis playing, self-proclaimed bad mamma jamma to three sons and a very understanding husband. You can find Amy online at the Theoutnumberedmother.com.

Q: How do you get your children to eat? My 3- and 4-yearold girls are ridiculously picky when it comes to food, and I’m afraid they aren’t getting the right nutrients. What is your secret?

Amy: I feel your pain. My oldest son is an adventurous eater. He tried new things regularly, and his palate was always surprising us. I must admit, his daring nature when it came to food left me wholly unprepared for the picky eating habits of his little brothers. These two just wouldn’t eat. I tried every tactic: bribery, bartering, sneaking vegetables into things, to no avail. When my middle son turned five, it was as if he just got the memo that food is delicious and started trying – and enjoying – new and different foods. My youngest, who’s three, is still a horrible eater and I was also worried he isn’t getting the right nutrients. My pediatrician explained that the average three-year-old could easily be filled up with three tablespoons of food in one sitting. Maybe you’re offering them too much in portion size to begin with? He also said to discuss having the kids try different foods with a “polite bite.” That would be the idea that tasting a little bit of what is offered to them

is the polite thing to do. Personally, my three-year-old son doesn’t seem to care about being polite at this point, but as he gets older this will be something that we will emphasize. We all want mealtime to be as smooth and tear-free as possible. I try not to drive myself crazy with the fact that while my kids definitely don’t like certain foods, meals are a way for them to prove their independence by refusing.

The most we can do as parents are to offer them healthy choices and cross our fingers that they eventually accept those decisions.

Q: When it comes to discipline my kids don’t take me seriously. I’m not a very stern person, so when I do yell at the kids, it usually ends with them laughing at me. What am I doing wrong?

Amy: I don’t know if you are doing anything “wrong” per say, but the tactics you are using obviously aren’t working. When it comes to disciple, I find the biggest mistakes parents make are not following through on the threats they make.

That’s usually because the punishment for them is just as much a punishment for you. Let’s say you all go out to eat and a child starts to misbehave. If you threaten their bad behavior by saying, “If you don’t stop this we are going home.” you better be prepared to get to-go boxes and hit the road. Because every time you make an idle threat and don’t follow through, it diminishes your effectiveness as a disciplinarian. If your child doesn’t trust you to do what you say and say what you mean, there is no point in attempting to correct the behavior. You need your kids to know that you are the adult and that you mean business.

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17

HAPPY, HEALTHY FAMILY By Anna Snyder

Locally Grown Entrepreneurs

Two of the children-run businesses that participated in the recent Children’s Business Fair at Mercato include Southern Chic Jewelry (left) owned by Carlie Pounsberry, who is 11 years old; and Chica Bella, owned by Bella Santos, who is 9 years old.

H

ave you ever considered teaching your children entrepreneurship or providing them with the opportunity for real ownership of a business? Maybe you’d like your children to learn the value of hard work and creativity. The Children’s Business Fair last month at Mercato in Naples (sponsored by The Foundation for Government Accountability and Flourish-Now) provided local children with just such an opportunity to create and market their own businesses.

The fair was first held last year, according to Erik Makrush, director of operations at The Foundation for Government Accountability and event sponsor. “Last year, my son approached our foundation about being a sponsor for the Naples Children’s Business Fair, which was held at North Collier Regional Park,” he said. “We had hoped for 25 participants and had over 50! Fast forward to this year, and many participants asked us to do it again.

We teamed up with our sister non-profit, Flourish-Now, to host the 2017 event and decided to hold one in Naples and in Fort Myers.”

The goal for this year was 60 participants in Naples and 40 in Fort Myers, Makrush said. “We were over capacity this year with 96 participants in Naples and 70 in Fort Myers.”

To apply for a booth at the event, children had to develop a plan and create a product. They were also required to pay $10 per booth to participate. “We did not limit the types of business ideas.

In a free market, there is competition, and our event encouraged that. We tried to separate similar booths, but competition is a great thing in business, and we wanted the kids to recognize that,” he explained.

“This is truly a phenomenal event for the kids and the community,” he added. “The Foundation for Government Accountability spent a lot of volunteer hours putting this together, but 18

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seeing the kids in action makes it worthwhile. I am confident that we have many budding entrepreneurs that will change the world as we know it.”

The main goal of the event was to “teach kids that capitalism is great,” Makrush said. “We need to encourage children how to develop an idea and take that idea to market. These are skills that will help them through their entire life.”

The Rearden family Michelle Rearden’s entire family participated in the event and rented their own booth – Nicole (10), Hannah (8), and Nathan (7). “I think I found out about the 2016 Children’s Business Fair on Facebook. All three of our kids participated last year, and it was one of the most talked about events of the year in our family.

As soon as it was over, the kids started trying to think of what to do for the next year,” Michelle said. “My husband is a small business owner, so the kids hear us talk a lot about business practices, clients, employees, and marketing. They have been intrigued with our conversations, and when we first heard about the Children’s Business Fair, we knew we wanted our children to be involved.”

Michelle and her husband value their children’s ingenuity.

“We have really tried to let the kids use their own imagination and creativity and just act as a voice of reason and guidance for them.

We have talked about how much a product costs to make, and its corresponding purchase price and realistic value. They are learning communication skills, economics, and marketing. Ultimately they decide the price point of their products and are required to interact with customers. It’s been a fun process for us!”

Nicole Rearden sold hand- and machine-sewn items at the fair.

“I made pillows, pillow cases, headbands, and plush toys,” she said.

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

“I love to read books, and I recently “I took a couple of classes and borlearned to crochet, so I came up with rowed some library books. The fair the idea to crochet bookmarks to sell has been a great learning experience at the fair.” Though Emma did not sell for me. I created my own products, as much as she wanted, Gabriela-Luis sold them, and made some money.”

Ricardo said, “The event went very Hannah Rearden won an well, though I don’t think we have as award in the 6-8 year old category many readers nowadays.” for having the most marketable Two of the four children in the product. She created “busy bags” Bechtle family rented a booth at the – high quality zippered plastic bags event to sell a variety of homemade with felt toys in them. “A busy bag bath products (bubble bath, bath has little felt toys, laminated paper, booms, and bath salts). Missi and her ribbons, and other things inside so husband Jonathan encouraged their that moms can provide a quiet and oldest two children to participate fun toy for their toddlers to play in 2016 and in 2017. “The fair is a with,” Hannah said. “I created a fantastic opportunity for young kids magnetic fishing game, a waffle weaving game, a pizza busy bag, and Cutter (left) and Jade Bechtle sold homemade bath products to be inspired to become entrepreneurs,” Missi sad. “They experience a few others.” at the Children’s Business Fair at Mercato. the realities of what it takes to run a Nathan Rearden created 200 small business. We want to see our children put themselves out there hundred paper airplanes from an airplane book he received as a Christmas present. “After I make my paper airplanes, I always test and be proud of what they have created.” Jade (10) and Cutter (7) sold out of almost everything they made. “Our business is called them to make sure they work.” he explained. “I am planning to ‘The Bath Bar,’” Jade said. “We came up with the idea because it have a paper airplane throwing contest at the event to see who can seemed easier and more unique than my first idea, which was to throw an airplane the farthest – I may even have a prize!” sell jewelry using shells I found on the beach.”

Another mom, Gabriela-Luis Ricardo, supported her daughter, For more information about the event and to keep apprised Emma (11), as she created a crocheted bookmark business. “I want her of how to apply as a participant next year, visit www.napleschildto learn more about how to run a business and be responsible for the rensbusinessfair.com. outcome,” she said. Emma’s idea stemmed from her love of reading.

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www.southbreezedaycamp.com NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

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19

SHOPPING By Leigh Tahirovic

Skip the Store and Shop From Your Sofa

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rocery shopping can top the list as one of the most dreaded household chores for many busy parents. That weekly trip can cause stress and frustration, especially in the months most stores are flooded with seasonal residents. It can rival housecleaning and laundry when you consider the time you spend making a list, fighting traffic, and filling the cart with food. Then factor in what it takes to wrangle whiny kids in a shopping cart shaped like a little green car and you have a recipe for madness. But there are other ways to shop, and all it takes is a smartphone and internet access.

Shipt If Publix is your grocery store of choice, then Shipt is your answer to stress-free shopping. Simply download the app, make your selections, and in as little as one hour your 20

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groceries will be delivered to your home.

There is no delivery fee when you spend over $35, but you must have a membership, which is $99 a year. Try the service free for two weeks.

“We cater to busy families,” said Julie Coop, Shipt spokesperson, “and not just a family of a mom, dad, and 2.5 kids. That family can be people with disabilities, someone caring for an elderly parent… We are about saving people time.”

Hate carrying those heavy cases of bottled water? Don’t worry, your Shipt shopper will do it for you. Only want organic produce? Your Shipt shopper knows the difference. And that deli order is no problem too. Just place your order online and the shopper will pick it up. If Publix is out of an item, the shopper will offer a viable alternative through a text to your smartphone.

“You can also note preferences, such as

the type of avocado you want – if you want it ripe today or later in the week,” said Coop, of how the app is set up for shopping. “[It] is set up by aisles of the grocery store.”

Plus, you know when the groceries will arrive. “Select a time that is most convenient for you,” explained Coop, adding that quality is ensured. “Shoppers check the [expiration] date just as they would for themselves. They use an insulated cooler bag for delivery. Cold food is still cold and hot food is still hot.”

Beer and wine online But beer and wine cannot be purchased from Publix. Shipt does offer alcohol delivery with your membership from ABC Liquor for a $7 fee. It is a separate order.

And because Shipt is offered in nearly 40 U.S. markets, your membership can be used while away from home. Simply change your NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

delivery address in your app and spend your vacation time enjoying the getaway, not navigating an unfamiliar grocery store.

Shipt prices also differ from Publix weekly sales and coupons cannot be used.

But Shipt has its own sale items that are displayed in the app. “We utilize our own pricing. They are not identical to store sales,” said Coop. “In a nutshell [Shipt] is a timesaver for that busy mom, to eliminate that weekly trip to the grocery store.”

Other online options Skip that trip to Walmart too by shopping online for groceries and household goods. It does require store pick up – sorry, no home delivery in Naples yet – but you can easily stick to your list and avoid any impulse buys.

Go to grocery.walmart.com and firsttime shoppers can get $10 off their order. If you buy less than $35, a fee will apply. You can shop by categories or search for specific items, which can be marked as a favorite for future ordering. After your items are added to the shopping cart, just select a pick-up time at your nearest Walmart and wait for your window, which is one hour.

Online Grocery Shopping Options u Shipt.com u Grocery.Walmart.com u Samsclub.com u Amazon.com/pantry Pricing is Walmart’s everyday low price and tipping is discouraged at pickup.

Quality is guaranteed but returns require a trip back to the store. Or you can call customer service for help. The biggest drawback may be for finding a specialty item on the website and some items have a quantity limit, but that varies by item.

Like Walmart, Sam’s Club members can order online and pick up in the store.

The free service is available to all club members. Shop online for groceries, produce, and other items. Just be careful when you select the quantity, as some items are sold in bulk only. The instant savings sale prices

are honored as well. But fresh meat is not available for pick up.

Costco recently announced a partnership with Shipt to offer home delivery of its groceries in the Tampa area, with plans to expand to 50 additional markets by the end of the year. Hopefully, one of those markets will be Southwest Florida.

Amazon.com/pantry is another online option for household goods like toilet paper and diapers as well as select grocery items.

There is free shipping when you purchase five items. Prime members can also “subscribe and save” on some items which are delivered each month on a subscription basis. Additional discounts are available on subscription items when you subscribe to at least five products. These services are for Prime members, which has an annual fee of $99.

LEIGH TAHIROVIC is a wife and mother who loves traveling and Civil War History.

She moved to Naples in 2001 and began a career in journalism. She is a freelance writer for magazines and newspapers in South Florida.

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

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3872 Tamiami Trail, Unit D&E

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21

SPRING BREAK April 10-17, 2017 CAMPS 9am-12pm & 1-4pm

The Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs provide great programming for children ages 4-18. They are given the opportunity to connect, grow and challenge themselves in a supportive environment with dedicated staff and volunteers.

Opportunities include both the visual and performing arts offered at our Center for Visual Arts and our Center For Performing Arts.

From over 140 Summer Camps to exciting after school and weekend classes, we have a lot to offer in Theater, Dance, Music and Art. Involve your children in the arts. It’s never too early!

Camps $15 per session Pre-registration is suggested to avoid disappointment Morning Care (8-9am), Supervised Lunch (12-1pm) and After Care (4-5:30pm): $5 each per day

Summer Camps: May 30-August 11, 2017 Registration now open!

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NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

FAMILY LAW

By Dale Klaus and Reuben Doupé

FL’s Child Support Guidelines: The Mystery Revealed

I

n 1987, the Florida legislature established Florida Child Support Guidelines to bring some simplicity and consistency to child support across the state. The public policy of the State of Florida in the creation of the child support guidelines is established by the following principles confirmed by the state legislature in 2010: 1. Each parent has a fundamental obligation to support his or her minor or legally dependent child.

2. The guidelines schedule is based on the parent’s combined net income estimated to have been allocated to the child as if the parents and children were living in an intact household.

3. The guidelines encourage fair and efficient settlement of support issues between parents and minimizes the need for litigation.

These guidelines are primarily formulaic, and are based on the results of economic studies using specific information.

Gone are the days of having to calculate the actual expenses spent by a family on their children, which would create an undue hardship on most parents that have to deal with the courts to get child support.

The information plugged into the formulas includes: the gross income of the parties, which may include alimony, minus

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

specifically listed deductions such as taxes and health insurance premiums for the parents; the number of children involved; the number of overnights each parent has the children pursuant to the parenting plan; certain child-related expenses such as child care for the children that is necessary for the parents to work, and health insurance premiums for the children. The formula inputs are specifically listed in the Florida Child Support statute.

Once the information is plugged into the formula, a chart will set forth the presumptive amount of the overhead for the children, called the basic monthly obligation. Then the guidelines will allocate the basic monthly obligation among the parents, which will usually result in one parent paying support to the other.

The formula provides a “presumptive”

support amount. Each parent may ask that the support be adjusted, based upon specific statutory factors, but any such deviations are an exception to the rule and are not routinely done.

Typically, the formula is used without much dispute and the amount of child support is easily determined. However, as with anything in family law, there are always unique circumstances that may present themselves which would require a more thorough analysis of the facts. For those cases, families should obtain legal counsel to insure that child support is accurately determined to better assist one or both parties in properly caring for their children.

DALE KLAUS and REUBEN DOUPÉ are partners at Klaus Doupé, a leading law firm in Naples focusing solely on marital and family law. Visit www.Marital-FamilyLaw. com or call 239-403-9800.

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EARTH DAY

By Tiffany Doerr Guerzon

Save Money and the Planet With Homemade Cleaners

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ousehold cleaning products can be expensive, and many aren’t friendly to the environment. Commercial cleansers, especially those used in the kitchen or bathroom, can also produce irritating fumes. So if you would like to conquer your grimy kitchen and bathroom – without the need for a hazmat suit or a gas mask – read on!

Most household cleaning and disinfecting can be accomplished using two main ingredients: baking soda and white vinegar. Add liquid dish soap and you have a full arsenal. Baking soda makes a great scouring powder, plus it neutralizes odors and kills mold and mildew. Acetic acid, the active ingredient in vinegar, acts as a disinfectant and also inhibits mold. Liquid dish soap helps to cut through grease and soap scum.

So arm yourself with baking soda, vinegar, and liquid dish soap, grab some rags and a scrub brush, and declare war on the germs, soap scum, mold, and mildew in your bathroom and kitchen.

In the kitchen Surfaces: For general surface cleaning, fill a spray bottle with half white vinegar and half water. Spray on and wipe clean. Always test on a small area of any surface before use, as you would with any cleaning product. Do not use vinegar on marble, as the acid can etch it, and use with caution on finished wood surfaces and tile.

Sink: For the sink, baking soda makes a great scouring powder.

Simply sprinkle onto the damp sink basin, let sit for a few minutes, then scrub with a wet rag or sponge. Then, to clean and deodorize the drain, pour in one cup baking soda and one cup white vinegar.

Let sit for 15 minutes. The bubbling and hissing you will hear is the acidic vinegar reacting with the baking soda. Follow this by pouring a kettle full of boiling water down the drain. Then finish up by shining the faucet with a spritz of your vinegar and water solution.

Microwave: To loosen cooked-on food residue in the microwave, put one half cup of white vinegar and one half cup of water in a microwave-safe bowl. Place the bowl in the microwave and heat the solution until it boils. Once everything has cooled, remove the bowl and wipe down the interior with a cleaning rag dipped in the contents of the bowl.

Oven: To clean the oven, spray water on any dirty surfaces, and then sprinkle with baking soda liberally. Spray in some water again to wet the baking soda. Let it sit overnight, and then scrub the oven with a wet rag.

Refrigerator: Wiping down shelves and walls with a solution of two tablespoons baking soda mixed with one quart warm water will both clean and deodorize the fridge.

Floors: Mop your no-wax floors with one half to one cup white vinegar per gallon of water.

Windows: Use the same vinegar/water solution you made up for surface cleaning. If you notice smearing, add a few drops of 24

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liquid dish detergent to cut through residue that might have been left behind by commercial cleaners. Using newspaper or coffee filters to wipe windows can reduce streaking.

In the bathroom Sink: For the bathroom sink, use baking soda for scrubbing and your vinegar-water solution for shining.

Bathtub/shower: For soap scum in the bathtub or shower, fill a spray bottle with half dishwashing liquid and half white vinegar.

Be sure to choose a dish liquid with degreasing action. Shake the bottle gently, and then spray liberally on surfaces to be cleaned. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then scrub and rinse well.

Toilet: Pour one cup white vinegar into the toilet bowl. Wait a few minutes, scrub with the toilet brush, and then flush. Wipe down the rest of the toilet with your vinegar/water solution.

Shower heads: To loosen deposits on shower heads, fill a small plastic bag with one half cup baking soda and one half cup vinegar. Use a rubber band to attach the solution-filled bag to the shower head, so that the nozzle is immersed. Wait about 15 to 30 minutes, and then remove the bag. Scrub with an old toothbrush if needed to dislodge any stubborn deposits, and then run the water.

Grout: Make a thick paste by mixing baking soda and water.

Apply it to your grout, let it sit for 15 minutes, and then scrub clean with an old toothbrush.

Shower door tracks: Fill any dirty tracks with undiluted white vinegar and let sit about half an hour. Then scrub with an old toothbrush and rinse clean.

Shower curtain: To take mildew off of the shower curtain liner, wash the liner in your washing machine on the gentle cycle with cold water using your regular detergent plus one cup of baking soda. Throw a bath towel in with the load to keep the plastic from sticking together. After washing, allow the curtain to air-dry.

By using these simple and nontoxic cleaning solutions, you will save not only money, but also the planet – and possibly your health.

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

RACHEL RECOMMENDS

By Rachel Newman

If I Stay by Gayle Forman

I

f I Stay is a phenomenal piece of work

by Gayle Forman. This intriguing book is told from the point of view of a girl who is watching herself from outside of her body after a bad car accident leaves her in a coma. If I Stay was a gift from my aunt for Christmas. I loved the book so much I finished it in less than a week. So I hope you decide to read and experience If I Stay after reading my column this month.

If I Stay features Mia Hall, a teenage girl who treasures her cello (which she works exceedingly hard at), desperately loves her boyfriend Adam, and has forever been friends with Kim. Everything began when a enormous truck hit the side of the car her father was driving, with her mother, her brother, and Mia inside. Mia found herself awake not too long after the crash. She asked multiple first responders where to go, what was happening, and how to react. None answered her questions, nor shooed her away. Mia,

scared and confused, found her own body in a ditch. That’s when she begins to realize that she is like a fish out of water, but probably closer to a soul out of a body. The rest of the book follows Mia’s soul/mind and body flashbacks to her past life, and those who love her arriving at her bedside (including her boyfriend and friends, who aren’t allowed in to see her at all) while RACHEL NEWMAN is 12 years old and in the sixth grade at Pine Ridge Middle School.

When not doing homework, she spends her time hanging out with her friends, Irish dancing, playing the flute, listening to U2 and Lindsey Sterling, and watching “Gilmore Girls.”

she decides whether it is worth it to live.

Thoughts swarm her mind to make the hardest decision she will ever have to make: should I live, or should I die?

My favorite part of this book is of course all of it, but something else that happens a plethora of times. Mia has flashbacks while she decides whether to stay, and I love these parts because I love teenage stories, and the bits and pieces of Mia’s past are just that. I think I love this part so much because I always ask my relatives to tell me stories of when my parents were kids.

One part I do dislike very much about this book is the ending. I want to know more details about what happens. But I don’t want to spoil the book for you, so I won’t say any more.

I hope that you decide to read this book by Gayle Forman and go on the same incredible journey I went on. Due to some mature subjects, I believe you should be 12 before you read this book.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

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25

TRAVEL

By Karen T. Bartlett

Destination: St. Augustine, Palm Island, and Estero

S

o Mother’s Day is coming up next month, and according to one of my friends, age seven, Mom does NOT want the same old stuff. Breakfast in bed?

A flower in a vase? Another boring spa massage? Uh-uh. Mom would rather go somewhere for real adventure. She’d like to see soldiers shooting muskets, he said, the louder and smokier the better. She’d just love to go fishing for sharks and stuff.

Or slide down a super-twisty water slide, ride bikes, and maybe take a zip line over a crocodile-infested river. Just kidding. I made this kid up, but as a mom who once had seven-year-olds (who later morphed into preteens and then teens), some of my best memories were made by taking an alternative route.

Consider St. Augustine, for example.

The oldest city in the United States (founded half a century ahead of the Mayflower, thank you very much) is stuck in a surreal

Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine.

26

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500-year Spanish/French/Colonial time warp a mere six-hour drive from Naples.

People walk around the Old City in period dress from the 1500s to the 1800s like it’s a totally normal thing to do. Horse-drawn carriages rattle around the cobblestone lanes, and there are musket firings every weekend at the ancient Spanish fortress, Castillo de San Marcos.

Just outside the city is a surprisingly cool Old Florida attraction called the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park.

In May, its rookery is awash in pink roseate spoonbills. And as my fictional kid suggested, one really can go zip lining over the Crocodile Crossing (alligatorfarm.com).

Ten miles north is a wilderness preserve unlike anything you’d expect to experience in Florida. The wildlife-rich Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve (GTM for short) offers outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, horseback

riding, and kayaking through its unique ecosystem of salt marshes, uplands, and estuaries (dep.state.fl.us/coastal/sites/gtm).

The first weekend in May is a great time to visit St. Augustine. The Romanza Festivale begins Friday, May 5 with an 18th century changing of the guard by the San Augustin Garrison. Afterward, the guards hang around for photo ops. Saturday is the grand procession, in which costumed reenactors, Spanish dancers, conquistadors, pirates, and assorted rogues, drummers, and other entertainers process from the City Gates to the Aviles Street Festival. All weekend there are street performances, as well as full-regalia musket firings at the fortress, where members of the militia charm and engage young visitors with hands-on fort experiences.

The Festivale ends with a day-long Harry Potter event on May 13. The real Percy Weasley from the movies will be there, along with the sorting hat, wizardly wands, and everything else Harry Potter.

Of course there are always trolley tours, carriage rides, ghostly tours (some spookier than others), and the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, where Ponce de Leon landed.

Attention, history buffs! Ponce de Leon was definitely not looking for any fountain of youth. The truth is that in 1513, King Ferdinand told the Conquistador that he could have the island of Bimini if he could find it. So off he sailed, and ended up in the land he named La Florida. He never made it to Bimini. He was wounded by a poisoned Calusa arrow right here in Southwest Florida. That fountain of youth story was concocted long after Ponce died, by a court historian with a mean streak. However, why not have a sip anyway, from the ancient fountain that still trickles up from the Floridan Spring. It can’t hurt, right?

The attraction also features living history exhibits and a planetarium where you can see the exact alignment of the stars the night Ponce de Leon landed in 1513.

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

Island weekend: pirate included Closer to home, I know a sweet little island less than two hours from Naples, where Mom can go shark fishing if she likes, or tarpon fishing in legendary Boca Grande Pass. Or she could just snuggle into her beachfront hammock or veranda with a book while the kids hang out with that not-so-dastardly pirate, Captain Red Beard. The 130-acre Palm Island Resort is just north of Cape Coral, accessible by ferry at Cape Haze. Once on the island, most guests get around by golf cart or bicycle.

There are tons of family activities, like sandcastle contests, scavenger hunts, arts & crafts, and nature cruises. Also, kayak, boogie board, and beach stuff rentals, tennis courts, a fitness center, playgrounds, and a pool. And yes, Mom can get her totallynot-boring massage.

Palm Island’s Mother’s Day package includes a 20% discount at one of the Old Florida-style villas (two nights or more), and various golf cart rental, gift shop, and restaurant discounts. Pssst... you might want to order a tropical arrangement for Mom to be waiting in the villa when you arrive. Use the package code M20 (palmisland.com).

©2017 Hyatt Hotels and Resorts

A small indulgence for Mom St. Augustine is a bed & breakfast lover’s dream, and some of the historic inns offer family suites or separate cottages. And about Mom’s massage: I recommend a nurturing treatment at the intimate Small Indulgences Day Spa (visitstaugustine.com).

Mom’s favorites: waterslide and all But wait. What if you could take Mom out of town to someplace exciting that’s just a few minutes from1-4 home?

You’ve seen 1 CEDR 1003 NeaFamily pg Horiz.4_Layout

The waterslides and lazy river at Hyatt Regency Coconut Point in Estero. the sign, Hyatt Regency Coconut Point, a gazillion times on your way to the mall, but have you ever turned west instead of east, and followed Coconut Road to the very end? It looks like a really nice hotel from the outside (which it is), but wait till you see the awesomeness that lies beyond.

Mom can get pampered with a choice of exotic treatments at Stillwater Spa (one of my personal faves), while the big kids and Dad do the super-fun140-foot waterslide (there is a smaller one for the little kids), float on the new lazy river, and play in the pool. Afterward, the whole family can take a boat ride to a private island for some beach time. The next day, maybe kayak around the estuaries of Estero Bay in search of manatees and dolphins, and get back in time for toasted marshmallow, graham

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I love my

Empowering and inspiring children to reach their potential with: - Programs for 6 months to 6 years of age with full or parttime days - Florida VPK programs & Private chef’s delicious full meal program - Residential campus setting with 2-large play yards and much more

Call today for a campus tour: 239-597-7190 www.cedarmontessori.org e-mail: office@cedarmontessori.org

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

cracker, and chocolate s’mores at the fire pit. That’s just one idea, of course. Girls 5-12 can have the Spa Girl Manicure and Pedicure beside Mom in the salon. There’s also a rock wall to climb (grownups and kids at least 42 inches tall), golf, tennis, eco-tours, Camp Hyatt kids’ activities, bike rentals, and tons more.

Or, back to the original plan: Mom can have breakfast in bed (with a flower in a vase) get a massage, and then float along the lazy river all day long (coconutpoint. regency.hyatt.com).

KAREN T. BARTLETT, travel editor of Neapolitan Family and publisher of the popular guidebooks, Mostly Kids’ Guides, has authored 11 destination travel books. the things he sees are not just remembered, they form a part of his soul.

Maria Montessori

inspiring the love of learning since 1984 neafamily.com

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11:00 a.m. Summer Camp Fair. Meet over 30 local summer program providers and enjoy a free Kids Zone with music, bounce house, face painting, giveaways, and more.

Sponsored by Neapolitan Family. Mercato, Naples.

Call 239-594-9400 or check mercatoshops.com.

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12:00 p.m. Community Celebration of Israel. Visit 30 Israeli themed booths covering travel, science, medicine, communications, dancing, singing, food, and more.

Kids’ playground, bounce house, face painting. Fleischmann Park, Naples. Call 239-213-3020.

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7:00 p.m. Passover First Night Family Seder. Family seder open to public. Adults $100; children 5-11, $18; children 12-18, $36. Chabad Jewish Community Center, 1789 Mandarin Rd., Naples. Call 239-262-4474 or check chabadnaples.com.

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6:30 p.m. A Caribbean Cinderella Story. Enjoy a puppet theatre story, craft, and some fun French activities presented

by FGCU. Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239593-0870 or check public. collier-lib.org.

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April

7:00 p.m. Naples Phil Youth Orchestra Spring Concert.

The Naples Phil Youth Orchestra performs beloved classical works from a variety of musical eras. Free.

Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. Call 239-597-1111 or check artisnaples.org.

neafamily.com

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6:00 p.m. Passover Second Night Family Seder. Join us for the richness of tradition, the warmth of community, and a delicious seder. Members $50, non-members $65.

Children 13 and under free. Temple Shalom. Call 239-455-3030 or check naplestemple.org.

4:00 p.m. Spring Egg Hunt. Make a fun spring container to use during the hunt and search for plastic treasures in the courtyard and side lawn.

Ages 2-6 years. Registration required. Vanderbilt Beach Library, Naples. Call 239597-8444 or check public. collier-lib.org.

tuesday

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6:30 p.m. Read to Rabbits. It’s great to cuddle up with a good book, but it’s even better with a soft, silky rabbit. Feed them, learn their habits, and make an edible craft.

Ages 4-8. Headquarters Library, Naples. Call 239593-0870 or check public. collier-lib.org.

6 3:30 p.m. Spring Terracotta Planting.

Learn some beginning gardening skills when you plant some bulbs and grass in terracotta clay pots.

Grades K-3. Registration required. South Regional Library, Naples. Call 239252-7542 or check public. collier-lib.org.

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4:00 p.m. Shoebox Charging Station.

Celebrate Earth Day by making your own charging station out of a recycled shoe box. Ages 9-17. Registration required. Marco Island Branch Library. Call 239-394-3272 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

thursday

10:00 a.m. Bunny Story Time. Toddlers, 10 a.m.; Preschoolers, 10:30 a.m. Enjoy a bunnythemed story time and craft. Registration is not required. Estates Branch Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-455-8088 or check public.collier-lib.org.

wednesday

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10:00 a.m. Easter Bunny Express. The Easter Bunny Express train is decorated for Easter.

Through April 16. The Easter Bunny will be greeting children on Friday and Saturday only. Lakes Regional Park, 7330 Gladiolus Dr., Fort Myers. Call 239-533-7575.

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6:30 p.m. Buddy Break Respite Program. Monthly session of free respite care for children with special needs and their siblings. Registration required. Call 239-2133351 or check naplessdachurch.org for additional information.

friday

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7:30 a.m. Annual To(tu) Peru Run. A fundraiser to support the Wellfit Girls annual trip to Peru for leadership training and community service.

Optional yoga class follows the run. North Collier Regional Park, Naples. Call 239-252-4060 or check wellfitgirls.org.

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8:00 a.m. Montessori Academy Open House. Learn more about our programs during the school year and summer months for children from infants to 15 years old.

2659 Professional Circle, Suite 1118, Naples. Visit www.naplesmontessori.org or call 239-597-1399.

10:00 a.m. Wa-Ke Hatchee’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt. Egg hunt starts at 10:35 a.m., $5 per child; adults are free. First 50 participants will receive a free Easter basket. Wa-Ke Hatchee Recreation Center, 16760 Bass Rd., Fort Myers. Call 239-432-2154.

saturday

Best Bets

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11:00 a.m. Taste of Marco Island. More than 20 local restaurants and food purveyors until 5 p.m. The Esplanade, 800 N. Collier Blvd, Marco Island. Call 239-389-4511 or check theesplanade.com for more information.

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10:00 a.m. Easter at the Shell Factory.

Features the Easter Bunny for photo opportunities, Easter Egg trail, and petting zoo. Live music starting at 12:30 p.m. The Shell Factory, 2787 N. Tamiami Tr., Fort Myers. Call 239995-3999.

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5:30 p.m. Coloring for Teens. Spend an evening relaxing and coloring with your friends. Coloring pages and pencils will be provided. Refreshments.

Ages 11-17. Immokalee Branch Library, 417 North 1st St., Immokalee. Call 239-657-2882 or check public.collier-lib.org.

6:30 p.m. Be Money Smart. Practice identifying American coins and bills through games and activities. Earn “cash” to “buy” prizes. Ages 7-10.

Registration required.

Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check public.collier-lib. org.

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3:30 p.m. Baby Animals Galore. See what baby animals have arrived.

Ducklings, chicks, and more. Ages 3+. Registration required. South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Call 239252-7542 or check public. collier-lib.org.

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10:00 a.m. Little Explorers. Explore nature and discover amazing animals through multi-sensory, interactive activities, stories, and animal-themed crafts. Ages 18 months to 5 years. Conservancy, 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples. Call 239-262-0304 or check conservancy.org/ summercamp.

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1:30 p.m. Backyard Animals. Learn about some cute animals and how to take care of them.

Featuring live backyard animals. Ages 4+. Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check public.collier-lib.org.

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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.

Registration required. Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, 15080 Livingston Rd., Naples. Call 239-5140084 or check cmon.org.

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5:30 p.m. Bunnies, Chicks and Ducklings, Oh My. Meet a baby bunny, chick, and duckling and learn about their proper care and feeding. Ages 4+. Estates Branch Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239455-8088 or visit public. collier-lib.org.

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6:00 p.m. VYCP Parents Night Out. Kids will enjoy a variety of games and activities in a safe environment. Dinner will be provided. Vineyards Community Park, 6231 Arbor Rd., Naples. Call 239-363-9669 or check colliergov.net.

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10:00 a.m. Magic Carpet Family Concert: Strings. An upclose concert with instrument demonstrations. For ages 3-9. Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. Call 239-597-1111 or check artisnaples.org for additional information.

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10:00 a.m. 2017 Earth Day Festival.

Live music, live animal programs, boat tours, face painting, food, and exhibitors. Conservancy, 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples. Call 239-262-0304 or check conservancy.org for additional information.

YOUR COMMUNITY April EVENTS CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS:

1 SATURDAY

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.

All day. Educator Appreciation Days. Through April 9, pre-K to 12th grade teachers, join us for deeper discounts, events, tech product demonstrations, giveaways, and more. Enter for a chance to win a $1,000 Barnes & Noble gift card. Located at Barnes & Noble, 5377 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples. Call 239-597-2040 or check bn.com.

7:30 a.m. Third Street South Farmer’s Market.

Parking lot behind Tommy Bahama’s. Located at Third Street S., Naples. Call 239-434-6533 or check info@napleschamber.org for additional information.

8:00 a.m. Walk the Talk for Epilepsy. Epilepsy Foundation of Florida leads the fight to overcome the challenges of living with epilepsy and to accelerate therapies to stop seizures, find cures, and save lives. Located at North Collier Regional Park, 15000 Livingston Rd., Naples. Call 239-252-4060 or check colliergov.net for additional information.

9:00 a.m. Chess Club for K-12. For students in grades K-12 at all playing levels, beginner to advanced.

Registration is recommended. Located at Marco Island Branch Library, 210 S. Heathwood Dr., Marco Island.

Call 239-394-3272 or check public.collier-lib.org for more information.

9:00 a.m. Nautical Flea Market and Boat Show.

Features nautical exhibitors selling arts, crafts, clothing, fishing, and cruising equipment, and more, as well as boat dealers. Located at Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd., Estero. Call 239-463-4588.

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 Neapolitan Family staff does not enter all calendar data, we cannot guarantee its accuracy.

9:00 a.m. Greenmarket. Join us on our 10-acre campus every Saturday to find an exclusive selection of locally grown, caught, and cultivated foods and other products available to sample and purchase. Located at Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Call 239-939-2787 or check artinlee.org.

9:00 a.m. April Fool’s Day 3D Hand Drawing.

Visit the library to make a unique 3D drawing of your hand. All ages welcome. Registration is not required.

Located at Naples Regional, 650 Central Ave., Naples.

9:30 a.m. SpelLife Women’s Wellness Summit Featuring Keynote Speakers Glennon Doyle Melton and Crystal Andrus Morissette. For tickets go to www.aeuphoriclivingfoundation.org. Located at St. John’s, 625 111th Ave. N., Naples.

9:30 a.m. WONDER Kids. Drop in anytime between 9:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday to the Smith Children’s Garden for fun activities. Located at Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Dr., Naples. Call 239-643-7275 or check naplesgarden.org for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Party for the Planet. Located at Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd., Naples. Call 239-262-5409 or check caribbeangardens.com for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Art in the Park. Showcases paintings in oil and acrylics, watercolors, mixed media, photography, sculpture, ceramics, glass art, jewelry, and woodworking. Call 239-213-3058 or check naplesgov.com.

10:00 a.m. Wa-Ke Hatchee’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt. Egg hunt starts at 10:35 a.m., $5 per child;

Happy kids. Sparkly smiles.

Try it at our office.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

adults can attend for free. First 50 participants receive a free Easter basket. Located at Wa-Ke Hatchee Recreation Center, 16760 Bass Rd., Fort Myers. Call 239-432-2154.

10:00 a.m. Cape Coral Fossil Show. Come to shop or talk with experienced fossil hunters to learn all about the fascinating fauna of Florida’s prehistoric times.

This event will feature fossils, gems, Calusa Indian art, and children’s activities.

Located at Rotary Park, 5505 Rose Garden Rd., Cape Coral. Call 239-549-4606.

10:00 a.m. Artists@Work at GreenMarket. Free, family friendly demo day that takes place during our weekly GreenMarket. Located at Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Call 239-939-2787 or check artinlee.org.

11:00 a.m. Barnes and Noble Storytime. Every Saturday at 11 am. Located at Barnes & Noble, 5377 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples. Call 239-597-2040 or check bn.com.

1:00 p.m. Koreshan Music Series. Enjoy live music in the Historic Art Hall, taking full advantage of the excellent acoustics and the 1885 Steinway piano. Free with park admission. Located at Koreshan State Historic Site, 3800 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Call 239-992-0311 or check floridastateparks.org for additional information.

2:00 p.m. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Also at 8 p.m. Hilarious and warm-hearted, this riotous musical comedy follows six adolescent misfits vying for the spelling championship of a lifetime. Runs through April 12. Located at Florida Repertory Theatre, 2267 Bay St., Fort Myers.

2:00 p.m. Alligator Fishing at Everglades Wonder Gardens. Every Saturday.

For $5 plus admission, you get a cane pool with a hot dog to feed our 37 gators.

Located at Everglades Wonder Gardens, 27180 Old 41 Rd., Bonita Springs. Call 239-992-2591 or check evergladeswondergardens.com.

2:30 p.m. Once Upon a Time. One Bag Productions Improv Troupe presents three short combined fairy tales that will delight young audiences. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

4:00 p.m. Improv Cafe. Bring your family out to “Little Shop of Improv”, the first Saturday of every month. Located at Centers for the Arts of Bonita Springs, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd., Bonita Springs. Call 239-495-8989 or check artcenterbonita.org.

7:00 p.m. Gulf Coast Town Center Music Series. Free admission in the market plaza. Located at 9903 Gulf Coast Main St., Fort Myers. Check gulfcoasttowncenter. com/shop/gulf.nsf/salesevents.

7:00 p.m. History Live Festival “Battlefield of Brotherhood”. Also April 2 (2 p.m.), 7, 8, and 9 (2 p.m.). History Live Festival presents “Battlefield of Brotherhood”; the story of a son of a southern plantation owner in Florida and a black slave who grew up as best friends. Free for school age children. Located at Marco Island Historical Museum, 180 South Heathwood Dr., Marco Island. Call 239-642-1440 or check colliermusems.com.

8:00 p.m. My Fair Lady. Located at Sugden Community Theatre, 701 5th Ave. S., Naples. Call 434-7340, ext. 39, or check naplesplayers.org.

8:00 p.m. Improv Tonight. Be as involved in the show as you’d like. Located at Centers for Performing Arts-Moe Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd. SE, Bonita Springs. Call 239-495-8989 or check artcenterbonita.org for additional information.

LITTLE PEOPLE’S SCHOOL • For 2-5 year olds 868 94th Ave. N, Naples 239-597-5064

• Top Rated VPK • Preschool Classes • Summer Camp LittlePeoplesSchool.info “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for people to dwell together in unity.” Psalm 133

Tenth Annual Interfaith Convocation Sunday, May 7, 2017 3:00 PM Temple Shalom 4630 Pine Ridge Rd., Naples

PLEASE PRAY WITH US! Reception to follow Service

2 SUNDAY 8:00 a.m. Marco Island Fire Department Pancake Breakfast. Eggs, sausage, and pancakes will be served. Proceeds benefit the Marco Island Fire Rescue Foundation.

Located at Marco Island Fire Department, 1280 San Marco Rd., Marco Island.

8:00 a.m. Farmers Market. Join us in the historic settlement of Koreshans. Local produce, fresh seafood, local hone,y handcrafted goods, pickles and olives, and fresh mozzarella cheese. Located at Koreshan State Historic Site, 3800 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Call 239-992-0311 or check floridastateparks.org.

8:00 a.m. EAA Young Eagle Rally and Pancake Breakfast. We will be giving a mini aviation lesson for kids 11-17 followed by a flight in a general aviation aircraft.

Located at Page Field, 5200 Captain Channing Page Dr., Naples. Call 239-590-6600 or check flylcpa.com/fmy for additional information.

9:00 a.m. Sunday Birding at the Conservancy. Join a Conservancy volunteer naturalist on the beach near the pass to view birds through a scope and ask questions.

Look for your guide in the orange vest near the pass on Sundays between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Located at Clam Pass Beach Park, 410 Seagate Dr., Naples.

9:00 a.m. Traditional Yoga in the Park. Traditional yoga class focuses on breathing, stretching, and postures. Modifiable for all ages and levels of participants.

Located at Koreshan State Historic Site, 3800 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Call 239992-0311 or check floridastateparks.org for additional information.

9:30 a.m. WONDER Kids. Drop in anytime between 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday for fun activities. Located at Naples Botanical Garden, 4820

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

21 Houses of Worship Participating

For information: www.pflagnaples.org or 239-206-3267 Do

INDIVIDUAL INSTRUCTION FOR STRUGGLING READERS • Certified Reading Specialist • 25 Years Experience • Methods: Orton-Gillingham & Reading Recovery • Children with Dyslexia, ADD and other challenges • Approved service provider for the Gardiner Scholarship • Downtown Naples Location • All Ages

239-233-9400

SAT and ACT Preparation Tutorial for Reading, Writing and Essay Sections info@ReadingRescueCenters.com • ReadingRescueCenters.com neafamily.com

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Bayshore Dr., Naples. Call 239-643-7275 or check naplesgarden.org.

10:00 a.m. Historical Tours at Koreshan State Park. Walk the grounds of the utopian community that helped establish Estero. Located at Koreshan State Historic Site, 3800 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Call 239-992-0311 or check floridastateparks.org.

11:15 a.m. Spanish Church Service. St. Monica’s church, in support of the Latino community, will hold a Spanish speaking service. Located at St. Monica’s Church, 7070 Immokalee Rd., Naples. Call 239-591-4550 or check stmonicasnaples.org.

12:00 p.m. Sip and Shop Sundays. Visit the Bloody Mary Bar at Waterside Shops’ Pavilion every Sunday with proceeds donated to different charities each month.

Located at Waterside Shops, 5415 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples. Call 239-598-1605 or check watersideshops.com for additional information.

12:00 p.m. Spring Fling and Food Festival. Tasty global fare, outdoor bar, lawn games, Kid Zone complete with bounce house, face painting, stilt walker, balloon artist, and snow cones. Free. Located at Mercato, 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 or check mercatoshops.com for additional information.

12:00 p.m. Community Celebration of Israel. Visit 30 Israeli themed booths covering travel, science, medicine, communications, Judaica items for sale, dancing, singing, music, food, falafel, family entertainment, and more. The kids will enjoy a playground, bounce house, and face painting. Located at Fleischmann Park, 1600 Fleischmann Dr., Naples. Call 239-213-3020 for additional information.

2:00 p.m. Free Concerts at the Bandshell. Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts. Located at Cambier Park, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-213-3058 or check naplesgov.com.

2:00 p.m. History Live Festival “Battlefield of Brotherhood”. History Live Festival presents “Battlefield of Brotherhood”; the story of a son of a southern plantation owner in Florida and a black slave who grew up as best friends. Free for school age children. Located at Marco Island Historical Museum, 180 South Heathwood Dr., Marco Island. Call 239-642-1440 or check colliermusems.com.

3 MONDAY 6:30 p.m. A Caribbean Cinderella Story. Enjoy a puppet theatre story, craft, and some fun French activities presented by FGCU. Located at Headquarters

Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check public. collier-lib.org.

4 TUESDAY 10:00 a.m. Moms and Tots Storytime with Miss Jessica and Miss Mary Ellen.

A toddler favorite, the girls read, sing, dance and color, creating a fun atmosphere of learning and lots of laughter. All ages are welcome. Located at Barnes & Noble, 5377 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples. Call 239-597-2040 or check bn.com for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Family Story Time at South County Regional Library. Your whole family is invited to this all-ages storytime that encourages the development of prereading skills through songs, rhymes, fingerplays, and stories. All children attending must be registered. Please be on time. Located at South County Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Call 239-479-4636.

11:00 a.m. Free Ave Maria Trolley Tours. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Tours depart every 45 minutes and reservations are encouraged, but not required, and can be made by calling 239-352-3903. Located at Ave Maria Town Center, 5076 Annunciation Circle, Ave Maria.

4:00 p.m. Spring Egg Hunt. Make a fun spring container to use during the hunt.

Follow everyone outside to the courtyard and side lawn where we will search for plastic treasures. Return your eggs to the library and get a special treat bag. Ages 2-6 years. Registration required. Located at Vanderbilt Beach Library, 788 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples. Call 239-597-8444 or check public.collier-lib.org.

3:30 p.m. Meals of Hope Mobile Food Pantry. The Meals of Hope Mobile Pantry will be on in the Y parking lot every Tuesday until 5:30 p.m. Frozen food, fresh produce, and canned goods will be given to families in need. Located at Greater Naples YMCA, 5450 YMCA Rd., Naples. Call 239-597-3148 or check greaternaplesymca.org for additional information.

6:00 p.m. Chess Club K-12. Join Antonio as he shares his skills at chess with students entering kindergarten through twelfth grade. For all playing levels, beginner to advanced. Registration is not required. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check public.collier-lib. org for more information.

April 29, 2017 - Sugden Regional Park, Naples ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT

5K REGISTRATION

Open - (2/7 - 4/23): $25 Week Of - (4/24 - 4/28): $35 Race Day - (4/29): $35

Special Teacher Pricing: $20 Students (18 and under): $15 Lil’ Super Hero Sprint (9 and under): $5

C A L LI NG A L L

S U P E R H E R O ES !

A race for the whole family. Come dressed for success or at least bring your cape and join us for an untimed fun run!

Kid DR ESS

Activities • MEET Super Heroes Like Your Favorite Super Hero & Win Prizes

START TIMES

8:20am - Lil’ Super Hero Sprint 8:30am - 5K

To register visit: www.gotrcc.org/events 32

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NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

5 WEDNESDAY 7:30 a.m. Marco Island Farmers Market. Held every Wednesday. Located at Veteran’s Park, 901 Park Ave., Marco Island. Check colliergov.net for additional information.

9:30 a.m. Historical Walking Tours. Admission is $10 for members or $16 for non-members. A 30-minute tour of Historic Palm Cottage and a 90-minute walking tour around the Naples Historic District. Reservations required. Located at Historic Palm Cottage, 137 12th Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-261-8164 for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Free Kids Crafts at Miromar Outlets. Kids from toddlers to 12 are invited to participate in fun activities. Located at Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Call 239-948-3766 or check miromaroutlets.com.

10:00 a.m. Bunny Story Time. Toddlers, 10 a.m.; preschoolers, 10:30 a.m. Enjoy a bunny-themed story time and craft. Registration is not required. Located at Estates Branch Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-455-8088 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Exploring Coastal Estuaries. Explore the coastal estuaries with a naturalist guided walk to the estuary and along a sandy trail to the beach. Explore one of the most productive ecosystems in nature and the unique coastal habitats at the Preserve. Located at Barefoot Beach Preserve, 505 Barefoot Beach Blvd., Bonita Springs. Call 239-252-4000 or check friendsofbarefootbeach.org.

10:00 a.m. Preschool Story Time. Parents and caregivers encourage independence by waiting nearby in the library during this program. The stories and activities may be longer but just as fun. You must register for each week of the six-week session.

Please be on time. Located at South County Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Call 239-479-4636.

10:30 a.m. Family Story Time. This program is for the whole family and lasts about 30 minutes. Located at Bonita Springs Public Library, 26876 Pine Ave., Bonita Springs. Call 239-992-0101 or check library.lee-county.com.

4:00 p.m. Health and Wellness Fair. This event features free health screenings, education, giveaways, and raffle prizes. Located at Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26795-27911 South Bay Dr., Bonita Springs. Call 800-799-0178 or check www. healthylivingcaravan.com for additional information.

5:30 p.m. Sewing Classes for Kids. Every Wednesday. Sew both by hand and machine. Please bring your own machine, but if you don’t have one, we provide you with one. Ages 5-13. Located at Etudes de Ballet, 3285 Pine Ridge Rd., Naples.

7:30 p.m. Prince Purple Madness Tour. The ultimate celebration of the most widely beloved entertainer and profoundly influential artist of all-time. Located at Southwest Florida Performing Arts Center, 11515 Bonita Beach Rd., Bonita Springs. Call 239-389-6901 or check swflperformingartscenter.com for additional information.

6 THURSDAY 10:00 a.m. Toddler Tales at South County Regional Library. This interactive time for toddlers ages 18-36 months and their caregiver will include storytelling, wordplay, fingerplays, and music-making designed to advance pre-reading skills.

Registration is required. Located at South County Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Little Explorers Program. Explore nature and discover amazing animals through multi-sensory, interactive activities, stories, and animal themed crafts. No registration is required to join in the fun. Located at Conservancy of Southwest Florida Nature Center, 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples. Call 239-262-0304 or check conservancy.org for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Tai Chi in the Garden. Instructor Karen McNeil hosts this energyflow exercise in the South Grove of the Garden every Thursday. Located at Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Dr., Naples. Call 239-643-7275 or check naplesgarden.org for additional information.

1:00 p.m. Goddess Yoga in the Park. This form of yoga incorporates goddess mythology into the physical practice of yoga, allowing participates to embrace and internalize the symbolic nature of each goddess in the practice. Located at Koreshan State Historic Site, 3800 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Call 239-992-0311 or check floridastateparks.org for additional information.

4:00 p.m. Makerspace. Makerspace is a place where kids of all ages can have fun while they create, construct, code, learn, and share. Experience robots, electricity, Lego® and more. Ages 4-14 years. Registration required. Located at East Naples

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

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Library, 8787 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples. Call 239-775-5592 or check public.collierlib.org for additional information.

4:00 p.m. Shoebox Charging Station. Come celebrate Earth Day by making your own charging station out of a recycled shoe box. Ages 9-17 years. Registration required. Located at Marco Island Branch Library, 210 S. Heathwood Dr., Marco Island. Call 239-394-3272 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

4:00 p.m. Book Buddies. What, exactly, is the Reading Book Buddy program?

They’re older kids (Big Reading Buddies) who will do the listening, paired with younger kids (Little Reading Buddies) who will do the reading, during some oneon-one reading time. Ages 7-10. Located at Golden Gate Library, 2432 Lucerne Rd., Naples. Call 239-252-4542 or check public.collier-lib.org.

5:30 p.m. Skin Health for Teens. Practitioners from Florida Skin Center will share practical life-saving tips and instructions for maintaining healthy skin, including proper use of sunscreen, moisturizers, and other skin care products. Located at Immokalee Branch Library, 417 North First St., Immokalee. Call 239-657-2882 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

6:00 p.m. Mercato Nights Music Series. This event offers live music for the entire family. Food, adult beverages, and soft drinks are available on the lawn. Located at Mercato, 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 or check mercatoshops.com.

7:00 p.m. Peter Pan Jr. Also April 7. First Baptist Academy’s 7th annual spring musical, Peter Pan, Jr. will take place in the FBCN worship center. Located at First Baptist Academy, 3000 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples.

7 FRIDAY 9:00 a.m. Find it Fridays. Kids enjoy a scavenger hunt all day. Ask for more details at the ticket counter. Located at Everglades Wonder Gardens, 27180 Old 41 Rd., Bonita Springs. Call 239-992-2591 or check evergladeswondergardens.com for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Beachcombing and Shelling Talk. What do wrack lines, jellies, blue buttons, beachhoppers, ghosts, sea pork, and beans have in common? Come find out at this lecture. Located at Barefoot Beach Preserve, 505 Barefoot Beach Blvd., Bonita Springs. Call 239-252-4000 or check friendsofbarefootbeach.org for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Drop In Baby Fitness Mommy and Me. Instill healthy habits for life in your toddler by attending this drop-in class on Fridays. $5 per child. Located at Fleischmann Park, 1600 Fleischmann Dr., Naples. Call 239-213-3020.

6:30 p.m. Buddy Break Respite Program for Kids With Special Needs.

Three-hour monthly session of free respite care for children with special needs and their siblings. Every third Friday. Advanced registration required. Located at Naples Seventh-day Adventist Church, 5050 Davis Blvd., Naples. Call 239-213-3351 or check naplessdachurch.org for additional information.

8 SATURDAY 12:00 a.m. The Easter Bunny. Hop on down for your free 4x6 photo. There will be also be photo package options available. Located at Bass Pro Shops, 10040 Gulf Center Dr., Fort Myers. Call 239-461-7800 for additional information.

8:00 a.m. Open House at Montessori Academy of Naples. Learn more about Montessori Academy of Naples and our programs during the school year and summer months for children from infants to 15 years old, and tour our facility during our open house until 11 a.m. Also on Wednesday, April 12 from 5-6 p.m. Located at 2659 Professional Cr., Suite 1118, Naples. For more information, visit www. naplesmontessori.org or call 239-597-1399.

8:00 a.m. Birding Basics. Enjoy this fun and informative class designed to help you identify birds around you. Oriented toward the beginning birder, the classroom session explores how to use birds’ plumage, shape, behavior and habitat to recognize various species. Located at Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Rd., Naples.

10:00 a.m. Little Explorers. Explore nature and discover amazing animals through multi-sensory, interactive activities, stories, and animal themed crafts. No registration is required to join in the fun. Ages 18 months to 5 years. Located at Conservancy of SW Florida, 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples. Call 239-262-0304 or check conservancy.org/summercamp for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Easter Eggstravaganza. Come join Coconut Point Mall for their Easter Eggstravaganza, featuring, music, crafts and photos with the Easter Bunny.

Located at Coconut Point, 23106 Fashion Dr., Estero. Call 239-992-9966.

10:00 a.m. Food Truck Wars. Hosted by the Collier County Sheriff ’s Office.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

Details are still being finalized. Located at Living Word Family Church, 34120 Immokalee Rd., Naples.

11:00 a.m. Family Easter Event. Golden Gate Community Center will be providing families with friendly Easter egg games, face painting, inflatable’s, crafts, music, food, and more. The Easter Bunny will be here so bring your camera. Remember to bring your Easter Basket. $3. Located at Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-4180 or check colliergov.net.

11:00 a.m. Science Saturday. Join Mr. Glen and his science and engineering team for interactive projects. Located at Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Call 239-948-3766 or check miromaroutlets.com.

9 SUNDAY 11:00 a.m. Summer Camp Fair. Meet over 30 local summer program providers and enjoy a free Kids Zone with music, bounce house, face painting, stilt walker, giveaways, games and more. Sponsored by Neapolitan Family. Located at Mercato, 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 or check mercatoshops.com.

11:00 a.m. BBQ, Bands and Brew. A family fun event boasting the best BBQ in town including local barbecue vendors, a friendly BBQ competition, live music all day long, games, and fun for all ages. Located at Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Call 239-939-2787 or check artinlee.org.

10 MONDAY 9:30 a.m. Essentials of Digital Photography Workshop. Learn how to use your camera’s shutter, aperture, ISO control, and the drive modes to create images with impact and creativity. Located at Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Rd., Naples.

5:30 p.m. Teen Egg Decorating. Time to throw away the dye and try these different, creative ways to decorate your eggs. All supplies will be provided. Ages 11-17 years. Registration required. Located at Immokalee Branch Library, 417 North First St., Immokalee. Call 239-657-2882 or check public.collier-lib.org.

6:30 p.m. Annual Family Passover Seder. The Haggadah will be read by the attendees, led by Rabbi Mark W. Gross and Cantorial Soloist Hari Jacobsen. A complete holiday meal will be served and each table set with the traditional foods and beverages. For reservations go to www.marcojcmi.com. Located at Jewish Congregation of Marco Island, 991 Winterberry Dr., Naples.

7:00 p.m. Passover First Night Family Seder. Family seder open to public.

Adults $100; children 12-18, $36; and children 5-11, $18. Located at Chabad Jewish Community Center, 1789 Mandarin Rd., Naples. Call 239-262-4474 or check chabadnaples.com for additional information.

Dr. Jennifer B. Hughes, DMD Pediatric Dentist

• Over 15 years experience.

• In-network provider for Cigna, Delta Dental, FL Healthy Kids, MetLife, Principal and more.

239-260-7672

1879 Veterans Park Dr., Suite 1203, Naples, FL 34109

PediatricDentistryofNaples.com

A New Montessori Preschool Opening Fall 2017 in East Naples.

The

G a rd e n School of Napl e s

M o nte sso r i E a r ly E d u c a ti o n

11 TUESDAY 10:00 a.m. Free Tuesday Morning Nature Talk. Bring your children and learn together how nature can flourish in urban and suburban areas, with the proper care.

Located at Naples Preserve, 1690 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples. Call 239-261-4290.

10:00 a.m. Bunny Make and Take. Stop by the library and make a bunny craft.

All ages. Registration is not required. Located at Estates Branch Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-455-8088 or check public.collier-lib.org.

10:00 a.m. Safari Squad Family Program. Bring 3-5 year olds for a playful adventure as we launch “Safari Squad”, our program for our youngest learners.

Located at Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd., Naples.

Call 239-262-5409 or check caribbeangardens.com.

3:30 p.m. Spring Crafts. Join us as we make several Easter and spring crafts, play a game, and enjoy some refreshments. Ages 5-11 years. Registration required. Located at Golden Gate Library, 2432 Lucerne Rd., Naples. Call 239-252-4542 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

5:00 p.m. Tween/Teen Eggstravaganza. We’ve hidden several eggs containing small prizes on our side lawn and courtyard. Join the hunt and you get to keep what’s inside. There will be one special golden goose egg prize. Ages 11-16 years. Registration required. Located at Vanderbilt Beach Library, 788 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples. Call 239-597-8444 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

6:00 p.m. Passover Second Night Family Seder. Join us for the richness of tradition, the warmth of community and a delicious seder. Members are $50, nonmembers are $65. Children 13 and under free. Located at Temple Shalom, 4630 Pine Ridge Rd., Naples. Call 239-455-3030 or check naplestemple.org.

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

An environmentally-conscious academic preschool program for children aged 2-6.

Accepting applications for enrollment now!

www.gardenschoolnaples.com

info@gardenschoolnaples.com • (239) 424-9084 • 6051 bayshore drive, naples

NEW YEAR, RENEWED HOPE JOIN US SUNDAY AT 10:15 A.M. at the Church of OPEN minds, HELPING Hands, and LOVING Hearts.

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Naples 6340 Napa Woods Way, Naples Close to 75 & Pine Ridge Road 239.784.4580

uunaples.org or UUA.org neafamily.com

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April Picks

6:15 p.m. Celebrate National Poetry Month with Blackout Poetry. Use pages from books or newspapers to choose words or phrases and then delete the surrounding text to form your poem. Located at South County Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for additional information.

in Lee County

12 WEDNESDAY 3:30 p.m. Spring Terracotta Planting. Learn some beginning gardening skills when you plant bulbs and grass in terracotta clay pots. Grades K-3. Registration required. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

4:00 p.m. LEGO Club at Estates Branch Library. Share ideas, be creative, make new friends, and have fun. Bricks will be provided. Your creation will be put on display at the library. Ages 5-11 years. Registration is not required. Located at Estates Branch Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-455-8088 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

5:00 p.m. Open House at Montessori Academy of Naples. Learn more about Montessori Academy of Naples and our programs during the school year and summer months for children from infants to 15 years old, and tour our facility during our open house until 6 p.m. Also on Saturday, April 8 from 8-11 a.m. Located at 2659 Professional Cr., Suite 1118, Naples. For more information, visit www. naplesmontessori.org or call 239-597-1399.

7:00 p.m. Epilepsy Support Group. Join us for our monthly support group.

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

13 THURSDAY

Miracle Opening Night & Fireworks

Hammond Stadium, 14100 Six Mile Cypress Rd., Fort Myers Saturday, April 8 • 6:05 p.m.

Celebrate the beginning of the 2017 Miracle season with Southwest Florida's most spectacular fireworks show! Fireworks begin after the game.

Miracle vs Jupiter Hammerheads. 239-768-4210

Stars On Ice

Germain Arena, 11000 Everblades Parkway, Estero Friday, April 13 • 7 p.m. www.ticketmaster.com

Frog and Toad

Broadway Palm Children’s Theater Royal Palm Square,1380 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers April 14 - May 12 Based on Arnold Lobel’s well-loved books, this whimsical show follows two great friends — the cheerful, popular Frog and the rather grumpy Toad — through four, fun-filled seasons! 239-278-4422

Cardboard Boat Regatta

Freedoms Park, 4818 Tarpon Court, Cape Coral Saturday, April 22 • 11 a.m. www.capecoralregatta.com

Earth Day at The Refuge

J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, Sanibel Island Saturday, April 22 • 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Earth-friendly family story & craft, free Gators & Crocs and Birding the Refuge programs, the appearance of Bagzilla, a bag monster!

Biking the refuge tour, guided hike along the Indigo Trail & more!

239-472-1100

Lee County’s Original Family Publication

FOR 26 YEARS!!

www.leefamilynews.net 36

neafamily.com

3:30 p.m. Eggstravaganza. Spring has sprung. Join us for a story and a craft, and our annual Easter egg hunt. Ages 2-10. Registration required. Located at Immokalee Branch Library, 417 North First St., Immokalee. Call 239-657-2882 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

5:30 p.m. Bunnies, Chicks and Ducklings, Oh My. Tish from 4-H will be here with a baby bunny, chick and duckling, and she will tell us all about proper care and feeding of these cute little creatures. Ages 4 years and older. Registration required.

Located at East Naples Library, 8787 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples. Call 239-775-5592 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

6:30 p.m. Evening on Fifth. This fabulous free street party happens every second Thursday through April featuring live music, dining, dancing, shopping, and fun.

Located at Fifth Avenue South, Naples. Call 239-692-8436 or check fifthavenuesouth.com for additional information.

6:30 p.m. Read to Rabbits. It’s great to cuddle up with a good book, but it’s even better with a soft, silky rabbit. We will feed them, learn about their habits, and make a bunny inspired edible craft. Ages 4-8. Registration required. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

14 FRIDAY 10:00 a.m. Easter Bunny Express. The Easter Bunny Express train ride will be all decorated for Easter. It’s scheduled to run April 16. The Easter Bunny will be greeting children on Friday and Saturday only. Located at Lakes Regional Park, 7330 Gladiolus Dr., Fort Myers. Call 239-533-7575 for additional information.

6:00 p.m. IMCP Indoor Movie Night. Enjoy a family oriented movie. Popcorn and drinks will be provided. $5. Located at Immokalee Community Park, 321 North 1st St., Immokalee. Call 239-657-4449 for additional information.

15 SATURDAY 12:00 a.m. Calusa Palooza 2017. Race the Estero River and support youth paddling sports. Sponsored by College of Life Foundation and South Florida Canoe Kayak Club. Located at Koreshan State Historic Site, 3800 Corkscrew Rd., Estero.

Call 239-992-0311 or check floridastateparks.org for additional information.

7:30 a.m. Annual To(tu) Peru Run. The run serves as a fundraiser to support the Wellfit Girls annual trip to Peru for leadership training and community service.

Keeping with the name, participants are encouraged to wear a tutu during the run. Optional yoga class follows. Located at North Collier Regional Park, 15000

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

Livingston Rd., Naples. Call 239-252-4060 or check wellfitgirls.org.

8:00 a.m. Insane Inflatable 5K. A fun and dynamic 5K, made up of inflatable obstacles, that will challenge you, surprise you, and leave you bouncing back for more. Located at JetBlue Park, 11581 Daniels Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-334-4700 for additional information.

9:00 a.m. Easter Eggstravaganza. Free admission. The Easter Bunny will be available for photos from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. for $5. Families will have the opportunity to collect toy filled eggs, prizes, and there will be other activities such as face painting and crafts. Located at Immokalee Community Park, 321 North 1st St., Immokalee.

Call 239-657-4449 for additional information.

9:00 a.m. Easter Egg Hunt. Join the crew for a morning full of hunting hundreds of easter eggs filled with candy, prizes, and free meals. Located at Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, 10750 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples.

10:00 a.m. Free Family Yoga. A free 45-minute beginners’ yoga class, for families with toddlers to tweens. Bring your own mat. Located at Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Call 239-948-3766 or check miromaroutlets.com.

10:00 a.m. EGGcellent Spring Science Cruise. Children and their families will enjoy EGGSperimenting with colors, discovering different types of eggs, and seeing the wonders of the water aboard Pure Florida’s Spring Science Cruises. Free to children with paid adult admission. Located at Tin City, 1200 Fifth Ave. S., Naples.

Call 239-262-4200 or check tin-city.com for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Max Hasse Community Park Easter Eggstravaganza. Easter Eggstravaganza with over 2,000 toy and candy filled eggs and other prizes. There will not be an Easter Egg hunt. Located at Max A. Hasse Jr. Community Park, 3390 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-348-7500 or check colliergov.net for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Marco Island Spring Jubilee and Easter Egg Hunt. The Easter egg hunts are for children ages 10 years and younger. There will be over 20,000 eggs to be hunted for. There will e free Easter themed games, crafts, food, live music, and the Easter Bunny himself. Located at Mackle Park, 50 Bald Eagle Dr, City of Marco Island. Call 239-642-0575 for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Easter Jamboree. Hop on by The Village, meet and take complimentary photos with the Easter Bunny and enjoy some arts and crafts. Bring your

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Marco Island Historical Society Presents History Live:

Battlefield of Brotherhood

written, produced & directed

by Gina Sisbarro Performances: March 31 April 1, 2, 7, 8, 9 Call for tines Tickets $10 Students Free

www.themihs.org 180 S. Heathwood Drive • Marco Island, Fl 34145 239-389-6447

Naples Preschool Academy Top Early Learning Center

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(conveniently located near Collier County Courthouse)

(239) 403-7977

www.NaplesPreschoolAcademy.com

baskets and collect Easter eggs from our merchants. Located at Venetian Village, 4200 Gulf Shore Blvd., Naples. Check venetianvillage.com for additional information.

11:00 a.m. Easter Bunny at Miromar Outlets. Have your professional photograph take with the Easter Bunny. Additional prints will be available for purchase.

Located at Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Call 239-948-3766 or check miromaroutlets.com.

6:30 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. Due to the popularity of the program, please sign in at the children’s desk when you arrive to reserve a 10 minutes space. All ages. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

16 SUNDAY 10:00 a.m. Easter at the Shell Factory. A family friendly Easter event, featuring the Easter Bunny himself for photo opportunities, an Easter Egg trail, and petting zoo. There will also be live music starting at 12:30 p.m. Located at The Shell Factory, 2787 N. Tamiami Tr., Fort Myers. Call 239-995-3999 for additional information.

17 MONDAY 5:30 p.m. Coloring for Teens. Love coloring? Come spend an evening relaxing and coloring with your friends. Coloring pages and pencils will be provided. Refreshments will also be available. Ages 11-17 years. Registration required. Located at Immokalee Branch Library, 417 North First Street, Immokalee. Call 239-657-2882 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

18 TUESDAY 12:00 p.m. Lunch & Learn. Learn about green turtles and the conservation measures over the last few decades have been successful in increasing the number of bay green sea turtles hatching and entering the ocean. Lecture is $15, or $10 for Friends of Rookery Bay members, includes lunch. Located at Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Road, Naples.

5:30 p.m. Bunnies, Chicks and Ducklings, Oh My. Tish from 4-H will be here with a baby bunny, chick and duckling, and she will tell us all about proper care and feeding of these cute little creatures. Ages 4 years and older. Registration required.

Located at Estates Branch Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239455-8088 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

6:00 p.m. Movies on the Lawn. March of the Penguins. Starts at dusk. Located at Mercato, 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 or check mercatoshops. com for more information.

19 WEDNESDAY 9:00 a.m. Summer Art Show. Free admission during gallery hours. Call 239463-3909 or visit www.fortmyersbeachart.com. Located at Fort Myers Beach Art Association, 3030 Shell Mound, Fort Myers.

1:30 p.m. Backyard Animals. Join Tish Roland, from University Extension Services, as we celebrate Earth Day by learning about some cute animals and how to take care of them. Interesting facts and activities await. Featuring live backyard animals. Ages 4 years and older. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check public.collier-lib.org.

3:30 p.m. Lego Club. Join the club and share ideas, be creative, make new friends and have fun. Bricks will be provided. Ages 5-11 years. Registration is not required.

Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Call 239252-7542 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

20 THURSDAY 10:00 a.m. Little Explorers. Explore nature and discover amazing animals through multi-sensory, interactive activities, stories, and animal themed crafts. No registration is required to join in the fun. Ages 18 months to 5 years. Located at Conservancy of SW Florida, 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples. Call 239-262-0304 or check conservancy.org/summercamp for additional information.

5:00 p.m. First Responder Event and Fashion Show. SWAT and Bomb Squad Units, antique fire and ladder trucks, motorcycle demonstrations, rock climbing

38

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NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

wall, bounce house, DJs, and more. The first 250 first responders in uniform who showing official ID will receive a goody bag. Located at Mercato, 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 or check mercatoshops.com for additional information.

6:00 p.m. Pajama Story Time. Wear your pajamas and bring your favorite teddy bear. We’ll sing songs and tell bedtime stories, then finish with a craft. All ages.

Registration required. Located at Immokalee Branch Library, 417 North First Street, Immokalee. Call 239-657-2882 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

6:00 p.m. Third Thursday on Third Street South. Live music in the Fleischmann Courtyard. Located at Third St. S., Naples. Call 239-434-6533 or check www. napleschamber.org for additional information.

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 at 7 pm. Call 513-4568 for location.

21 FRIDAY

Tir Na Nog Academy of Irish Dance

Our mission is to promote the heritage and culture of Irish Dance.

Visit us online at tirnanogdance.com or call 239-455-7225 Call Us to Schedule Your First Class FREE.

6:00 p.m. VYCP Parents Night Out. Kids will enjoy a variety of games and activities in a safe environment. Dinner will be provided. Located at Vineyards Community Park, 6231 Arbor Rd., Naples. Call 239-363-9669 or check colliergov. net for additional information.

6:00 p.m. Coconut Point Concert Series. Party to the soundtrack of your life as we journey through the greatest hits of the 50s, 60s and 70s until 9 p.m. Located at Coconut Point, 23106 Fashion Dr., Estero. Call 239-992-9966 for additional information.

22 SATURDAY Call for times. Calusa Palooza 2017. Canoe, kayak, and SUP will compete in a 4- or 8-mile race, youth 10 and under can compete in a 1-mile race. All participants will receive a dri-fit long-sleeved shirt and lunch. Located at Koreshan State Historic Site, 3800 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Call 239-992-0311 or check floridastateparks. org for more information.

7:30 a.m. Sunshine 5K to Benefit Friends of Foster Children Forever. To register, visit www.friendsoffosterchildren.net. Before March 15 is $25; $35 if registered March 16 to April 21, and $45 if registered the day of the event. No charge for children 13 and younger. Located at Vineyards Community Park, 6231 Arbor Rd., Naples. Call 239-363-9669.

8:00 a.m. Moorings Presbyterian Church Gigantic Garage Sale. Now in our 36th year. Located at Moorings Presbyterian Church, 791 Harbour Dr., Naples.

9:00 a.m. Earth Day BOGO. In celebration of Earth Day, the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center offers “buy one, get one free admission.” Higher price prevails. Cannot be combined with other offers. Must pay at door. Located at Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Rd., Naples.

10:00 a.m. 2017 Earth Day Festival. Live music, live animal programs, boat tours, face painting, food, and exhibitors. Located at Conservancy of Southwest Florida Nature Center, 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples. Call 239-262-0304 or check conservancy.org for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Little Explorers. Explore nature and discover amazing animals through multi-sensory, interactive activities, stories, and animal themed crafts. No registration is required to join in the fun. Ages 18 months to 5 years. Located at Conservancy of SW Florida, 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples. Call 239-262-0304 or check conservancy.org/summercamp for additional information.

11:00 a.m. Cycle of Life Naples Zoomobile. Come see the latest addition to the Naples Zoo: their very own traveling Zoomobile will be here with a couple of their zoo friends. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples.

Call 239-593-0870 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

2:00 p.m. Shoebox Charging Station. Come celebrate Earth Day by making your own charging station out of a recycled shoe box. Ages 9-17. Registration required.

Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Call 239252-7542 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

7:00 p.m. Movies Under the Stars: Trolls. Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets. Please leave coolers at home and support our food and beverage retailers. Pets are welcome. Located at Coconut Point, 23106 Fashion Dr., Estero.

Call 239-992-9966 for additional information.

8:00 p.m. Olivia Newton-John. Internationally recognized four-time Grammy Award-winning singer, actress, community activist and breast cancer “thriver” Olivia

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

We buy & sell gently used kids stuff • 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.

13560 Tamiami Trail N #4, Naples,

239-596-6096

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

onceuponachildnaples.com

GUIDING HEARTS x INSPIRING MINDS x SHAPING LIVES

Over the last 43 years, it has been our mission to partner with Christian families in the education and discipleship of their children. We fulfill our mission through biblical integration in all aspects of our programs to teach children to love God, think biblically, and serve others.

The PreK - eighth grade program holds dual accreditation from Advanced Ed/SACS and ACSI. Students at NCA are afforded an unparalleled experience through: • Invested, compassionate faculty • Integrated curriculum • Interactive classrooms • Remarkable fine arts and athletic programs Call us today for your personal tour of our campus to watch our students in action and see for yourself why we say at NCA:

“We are more than a school; we’re family!”

For more information, please contact Kayla Walling at 239-455-1080 or walling@ncanaples.com.

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Newton-John live in concert. Located at Seminole Casino, 506 South 1st Street, Immokalee. Call 239-658-1313 or check seminolecasinoevents.com.

23 SUNDAY 10:00 a.m. Community-Wide Annual Holocaust Memorial Service Featuring Local Students and Holocaust Survivors. Free. Refreshments to follow. For more information call The Jewish Federation of Collier County at 239-263-4205.

Located at Temple Shalom, 4630 Pine Ridge Rd., Naples.

11:00 a.m. Taste of Marco Island. Benefits YMCA. Brings together more than 20 local restaurants and food purveyors. Located at The Esplanade, 800 N. Collier Blvd., Marco Island. Call 239-389-4511 or check theesplanade.com.

25 TUESDAY 4:00 p.m. Marvelous Manatees. Join a Ranger from J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge and discover these gentle giants that call Southwest Florida home.

Ages 5-11 years. Registration required. Located at Vanderbilt Beach Library, 788 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples. Call 239-597-8444 or check public.collier-lib.org.

5:00 p.m. Sensory Night at C’MON. C’mon provides Sensory Nights for children on the autism spectrum and or with other sensory integration disorders. Sensory Nights have limited participation in order to minimize crowds, and registration is required. Located at Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, 15080 Livingston Rd., Naples. Call 239-514-0084 or check cmon.org.

6:15 p.m. You and Your Money. Learn about budgeting and savings, how to organize your money and track your spending, and about fiscal responsibility.

Located at South County Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for additional information.

26 WEDNESDAY 3:30 p.m. Baby Animals Galore. It’s spring. Come see what baby animals have arrived. Ducklings, chicks, and more. Ages 3 years and older. Registration required.

Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Call 239252-7542 or check public.collier-lib.org.

6:00 p.m. Art After Hours. Enjoy free admission to The Baker Museum for Art After Hours, which takes place the last Wednesday of each month from 6-9 p.m.

A local band offers musical entertainment and audiences of all ages are welcome to view the galleries and learn from the docents. Located at Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. Call 239-597-1111 or check artisnaples.org for additional information.

27 THURSDAY 4:30 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 is not required. Located at East Naples Library, 8787 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples. Call 239775-5592 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

5:00 p.m. Walk at the Promenade. Located at Promenade at Bonita Bay, 2679527911 South Bay Dr., Bonita Springs. Call 800-799-0178 or check promenadeshops. com for additional information.

5:30 p.m. Bunnies, Chicks and Ducklings, Oh My. Tish from 4-H will be here with a baby bunny, chick, and duckling, and she will tell us all about proper care and feeding of these cute little creatures. Ages 4 years and older. Registration required.

Located at Immokalee Branch Library, 417 North First St., Immokalee. Call 239657-2882 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

6:30 p.m. Be Money Smart. Practice identifying American coins and bills through games and activities. Earn “cash” to “buy” prizes. Ages 7-10 years. Registration required. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

28 FRIDAY 10:00 a.m. Art Smarts. Join us for a new storytime focusing on process art.

We’ll read a story, sing some songs, and then wear some old clothes, because we’ll have some creative fun through developmentally appropriate art experiences.

Ages 2-5 years. Registration required. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385

Own a piece of paradise!

Scott Price, Realtor®

239-641-1484

Delight in your own piece of paradise overlooking the fourth hole of the Pelican Bay Golf Club. This two-story residence features volume ceilings in living and family rooms, crown moldings, marble and hardwood floors, impact glass, and two fireplaces. This home is located in the highly desirable Sea Gate, Pine Ridge and Barron Collier school districts. Conveniently located within walking distance to Waterside and Artis-Naples. Enjoy all the world-class amenities Pelican Bay has to offer including private beach club and beach access, restaurants, tennis facilities, and community center. The ultimate in Florida Living. $2,275,000. Call for your private viewing.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

11:00 a.m. Smoke on the Water Barbecue and Music Festival. This is a free community event that is sure to bring an authentic experience of craft barbecue, beer, and bands along with a Kid Zone for the children. Located at Centennial Park, 2000 West First St., Fort Myers. Check fortmyersmusicwalk.com for additional information.

6:00 p.m. Basketball Music Night. Groove to upbeat music while playing basketball. Located at Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-4180 or check colliergov.net.

7:00 p.m. NCRP Movie at the Park. Bring your blankets and chairs. Please make sure to print out your receipt as it will be your ticket. Located at North Collier Regional Park, 15000 Livingston Rd., Naples. Call 239-252-4060 or check colliergov.net.

29 SATURDAY 8:00 a.m. MHCP Community Yard Sale. Find yard sale bargains with the convenience of having all the sales in one location. Call to reserve a spot if you are interested in selling used items. Located at Max A. Hasse Jr. Community Park, 3390 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-348-7500 or check colliergov.net for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Magic Carpet Family Concert: Strings. Part of the Magic Carpet Family Series. An up-close concert with instrument demonstrations, these performances are a great way for families to learn more about instruments and musicmaking. For children ages 3-9 years, these concerts feature musicians from the Naples Philharmonic performing a 45-minute program while demonstrating their instruments and answering questions. Located at Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. Call 239-597-1111 or check artisnaples.org for additional information.

11:00 a.m. Gulf Coast Symphony Musical Discovery Zone. Musical Discovery Zone™ provides an opportunity for children (and adults) to meet several musicians from the orchestra and try their own hand at playing some instruments. This event is for all ages. Registration is required. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

11:00 a.m. Fort Rock: South Florida’s Biggest Rock Festival. Saturday and Sunday. All attendees must have their own ticket regardless of age. Parents, please bring hearing protection for young children. Located at JetBlue Park, 11581 Daniels Pkwy., Fort Myers. Call 239-334-4700 for check fortrockfestival.com/tickets additional information.

4:00 p.m. Sadhguru Mega Program. Sadhguru, realized yogi, mystic, and visionary, is coming to Tampa to offer the Inner Engineering Completion program for the first time. Located at Tampa Convention Center.

30 SUNDAY 7:00 p.m. Naples Philharmonic Youth Orchestra Spring Concert. The Naples Philharmonic Youth Orchestra performs beloved classical works from a variety of musical eras. Free. Located at Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. Call 239-597-1111 or check artisnaples.org for additional information.

LEARNING CAN BE FUN Start the school year strong with custom tutoring sessions at Wise Minds Tutoring Center Tutoring for Grades K-12 • Free Assessment • No Contracts Flexible Scheduling • One on One Instruction • Sibling Discount Guaranteed Grade Level Improvement

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239-631-2348 • WiseMindsLearning.com

Enroll your child in Child’s Path…

The top three reasons why: #1. The Reggio Emilia philosophy of education is followed, which promotes child-centered learning in an arts-based environment and inspires a desire for life-long learning. In an atmosphere of fun, affection, attention and support, we will prepare your child for kindergarten and beyond. #2. Enrollments being accepted now for children ages 2-5; offers a highly qualified teaching staff; accepts VPK and SCHOOL READINESS vouchers; partial scholarships are available for income-eligible families. #3. Read #1 and #2 again.

Free VPK! Now enrolling for the 2017-18 school year!

Call: 239-353-4144 Your child deserves a high-quality early childhood education.

Let us help give your child a brighter future!

Visit www.collierchildcare.org to find out more.

3144 Santa Barbara Blvd.

Naples, FL 34116 Child’s Path A CCCR Early Childhood Development Center

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

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Kids Are Discovering More at Summer Camp

T

he world of summer camps is often misunderstood; not by those who attended camp in their youth or who provide their own children with the experience, but by those who have never before been a part of something so wonderfully impactful.

To some, summer camp is simply an opportunity for children to disconnect from their hyper-technological world, to explore the great outdoors, to meet new people, make new friends, and create lifelong memories. But while the summer camp experience certainly does provide these things, it’s true value is much deeper and far more expansive. That’s because these things are not an end to themselves but rather a means to developing and discovering so much more.

Removing the onslaught of screens from children’s lives, even if only for a few weeks, helps spark their inner-creativeness.

Instead of relying on instant, electronic entertainment, they must seek out and

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produce actual, tangible, real-life stimulation through the world and the people around them.

This, coupled with the freedom to explore the wonders of the outside world, cultivates a rarely enjoyed sense of discovery and a developing appreciation of one’s environment. It’s not simply an opportunity to skip rocks across a lake, or climb a tree, or play in the mud. This exploration, this immersion into the natural world, allows campers to sense the warmth of a summer sun upon their back, to squeeze the cool, dry earth between their toes, to feel the crisp, refreshing chill of lake water washing over them, and to witness the brilliant display of living artistry as the lush greens of trees, speckled with the bright pastels of innumerable wildflowers, gracefully mingle beneath an expansive canvas of pure blue. Essentially, it’s a chance to recognize, relate to, and respect the world in which we live.

Even the social nature of camp, which

creates a comfortable, safe, and supervised environment, is a means to an end greater than itself. Within this structure, children are free to be themselves without conforming to the normal confines, parameters, and qualifications of their everyday lives back home. They are accepted simply by being present. This sense of belonging allows them to branch out of their comfort zones, to try new things, to engage and interact with people they’ve never met, to seek out new friendships, and to accept others even as they themselves are finding acceptance. When the pressure of fitting a certain mold, or measuring up to another’s preconceived notion is removed, campers receive both the comfort of knowing they belong and the confidence to openly engage with others.

Yes, summer camp provides children the opportunity to camp out under a starry sky and climb around a high ropes course and kayak across a lake. And yes, camp provides children with one or two or three (or more) weeks of unimaginable fun with cabin mates and counselors from all over the globe.

But what camp is cannot be limited to a list of activities and programs. Camp is an opportunity for children to grow in their independence and self-confidence.

They learn to feed their creative spirit.

They dare to discover new things both in the world around them and in themselves.

They are taught to recognize and value the intrinsic worth of those around them and to confidently interact with others. They begin to understand the importance of belonging to a community of individuals and to contribute freely and personally to that community. In short, the summer camp experience affords each child the chance to discover themselves, to develop their character, to recognize and relate to the world around them and to genuinely value the people within whichever community they might find themselves. It just so happens this opportunity might come to them while they’re swimming across a lake or shooting a bow and arrow or singing songs around a campfire.

ADAM KNECHTEL is the registrar at Camp Highlander in Mills River, North Carolina. For more information, check out www.camphighlander.com or call 828891-7721.

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

SUMMER CAMP

By Christa Melnyk Hines

Dealing with Homesickness at Camp

W

orried that your child will suffer a serious hankering for home during her first camp experience this summer? While homesickness isn’t unusual, a proactive approach now can minimize the blues later.

Work up to it. When her children were younger, Stephanie Maass said sleepovers with friends helped her sons, Spencer (18), Hunter (15), and Carter (11), adjust to eventual week-long camps.

Talk to your child. Include your child in the process of choosing a camp and discuss whether or not she is ready to go. And remember, every child is different. Adrienne Andrews has two daughters: Janelle (13) and Cameron (9). While Janelle felt ready to attend week-long Girl Scout camps at 7, Cameron didn’t feel ready until last summer.

Practice coping skills. “Make them feel like they can still be connected with (you),” said Amy Gragg, a licensed clinical social worker.

If a phone is available, agree on a specific time each day to talk. Or pack pens, paper, envelopes, and stamps so they can send you letters. Positive, self-calming statements can also help. For example, “I am safe. I can handle this.”

“This gives control back to the child when they’re able to calm themselves and change their thought patterns,” Gragg said.

Do your homework. Find out the camp’s caregiver-to-child ratio in each cabin, the staff’s experience and qualifications, and if a nurse or physician is on staff. Also, ask

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

about the camp’s policy on homesickness, including how they train staff to handle it.

“If they don’t have (a policy) in place with how they support your child, I wouldn’t send them,” Gragg said.

Find familiar faces. Find out if other children from your child’s school or your neighborhood plan to attend the same camp.

A few friendly faces can go a long way to help a child transition from the home to camp setting. When Andrews’ daughter Cameron attended a camp in Wisconsin last summer, her older sister Janelle went, too. With Janelle there, Cameron adjusted easily to a 10-day camp far away from home.

Pack a connection to home. Typically, morning and bedtime are the most difficult times of the day for children at camp – times when they normally enjoy a routine and are more likely to connect with a parent or another caretaker. In addition to stationery, pack your child’s favorite stuffed animal or toy. Even something that smells like a parent or home can provide comfort as they

drift off to sleep. For her sons, Maass said she always packs a flashlight, a cell phone (if allowed), a couple of books, and a hand-held video game.

Remain calm. If your child calls feeling homesick, calmly remind him about the coping skills you discussed before camp and ask him if he talked to his counselor. “The more reassuring and calm (you) can be, the more helpful that’s going to be for (your) child. At this age, they’re listening to our words and tone of voice more,” Gragg said.

When to bring ‘em home. If your child is homesick to the point of not eating, sleeping, or participating in camp activities, talk to a camp counselor. You may decide it is in his best interest to bring him home. But, focus on the positive. Praise your child for going in the first place: “I’m proud of you for going because that was an accomplishment.”

While homesickness is difficult, Maass said she is happy her sons did not miss out on camp. “Camping helps them learn camaraderie. It builds their self-confidence.”

Andrews agrees. “It provides an opportunity for them to grow and learn how to be independent without mom or dad hovering,” she said. “They both came home feeling very good about themselves. They made new friends; they tried new things and felt good about being on their own.”

CHRISTA MELNYK HINES and her husband have two children. She is the author of “Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.”

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SUMMER CAMP

By Anna Snyder

Finding the Right Camp for Your Child with Special Needs

F

or families with children who have special needs, the approaching summer months can prove to be a daunting obstacle. The need for childcare as well as educational bridges between the end of one school year and the beginning of the next make finding quality summer camp options paramount. Because of the varying educational, environmental, and physical needs of children, as well as the limited resources to meet these needs within the community during the summer, it can be hard to find a good fit for many local families.

the fact that they had experience with some special needs kids, and it was led by a certified teacher from within the Collier County system. Unfortunately, we were asked to leave on the second day.”

After additional research and experience, the following year, Lee found the Naples Equestrian Challenge, a program serving children and adults of all ages with their year-round program which recently changed its name to Naples Therapeutic Riding Center. “They offer an amazing camp experience,” Lee said. “The ratio of counselors to campers is 1:1. You can’t ask for anything more than your child getting the individual support, and they have an exceptional support staff.”

Limited options The bottom line is that summer camp options are extremely limited locally. Gini What to look for Phillips is a Naples area mom Audra Boxma, head of The with three children. Her daughCenter for ADHD, Behavior ter, Cara, is 11 years old and has Campers cooling off during Lighthouse of Collier’s summer camp.

Change, and Social Success and Down syndrome. “There are a licensed mental health counselor, not a lot of options in the summertime,” recommends parents ask for specific inforon the autism spectrum and has a sensory Phillips said, “especially for families who mation, including: How long is the camp? processing disorder and ADHD. “The first need full-time care during these months.

What is the ratio of students to adults? What summer I attempted to get Nicholas into a There are certainly more options [now] are the qualifications of the adults? Walk me camp program was when he was four years than when Cara was born. When Cara was through a typical day at camp. Can I meet old,” Lee said. “Not knowing of any options little, I had to hire a teacher’s assistant for the staff? What type of kids do you serve in for kids with special needs, I simply called over the summer. She was wonderful, but this camp? around to every program director to explain this was a cost prohibitive solution for the Boxma urged parents to request our situation and find out if they would be summer months.” specific information regarding behavioral willing to work with us. Responses varied Phillips eventually found a small proprotocol, as well as the possibility for health greatly. Understandably, most explained a gram for Cara through the City of Naples at insurance coverage. lack of resources, and as a result, the inability River Park. “The summer program that Cara Lee echoed Boxma’s suggestions: “In to give a child the extra attention he or she goes to now only takes 75 kids, and they have my experience, special needs vary so much needs. Some invited us to try the program a huge waitlist. It is an amazing program, that most programs, even ones geared to with the requirement we hire our own perand I would love for other programs in help children with special needs, really can’t sonal aide to help our child throughout the Southwest Florida to seek to emulate what promise anything, and do need to operate day. Others were willing to give us a try, the City of Naples accomplishes through the on a case-by-case basis. I would just advise with the caveat that if they couldn’t supsummer camp at River Park.” parents to be very honest about their child’s port our child we would be asked to leave Similar difficulties were encountered by abilities, seek out staff who are willing to the program.” another parent, Lee (who asked to have her work with them, and be flexible.”

Lee ended up placing her son in a last name withheld). Lee’s son, Nicholas, is Boxma suggested parents speak to prosummer VPK program. “I chose it based on 44

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Local Summer Camps for Children with Special Needs u The ABLE Academy, a private non-profit institution for children with special needs, offers a summer camp program for children pre-k through high school. This program is currently full with an extensive waitlist. Call 239-352-7600. u Camp Able. St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Marco Island offers the opportunity for children with special needs to experience an overnight camp July 12-16. (They also provide a day camp option.) All meals are included, and there are dormitory-style accommodations. Visit www.campable.org or call St. Mark’s Episcopal Church at 239-394-7242. u The City of Naples offers a summer camp option for children with special needs at River Park, and it currently has an extensive wait list. For more information or to be placed on the waitlist, call 239-213-3037. u Collier County Parks and Recreation offers inclusion opportunities as well as summer camps specifically designed for children with special needs. For more information, visit the office at the North Collier Regional Park, or visit www.collierparks.com. u Easterseals in Naples is planning a unique summer program for individuals with special needs ages 11-22.

There will be two three-week sessions (M-F, 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.) jampacked with fun, friendship, learning, field trips, and more. Session 1 is June 12-30 and Session 2 is July 10-28.

Both programs are located at 8793 Tamiami Trail E., Suite 111, Naples.

Contact Michelle Turchetta at 239-

fessionals outside of the program. “If parents of children with special needs are working with a counselor, I would ask the counselor to research the program. A trained clinician can make one phone call and get a good sense of the program, and if it appropriate for the child.” Boxma reiterated that there are not many programs available locally.

The Need Though inclusion opportunities are out there, the need for high quality, affordable summer camp programming NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

403-0366 or mturchetta@fl.easterseals. com. Space is limited.

more information, visit www.naplestherapeuticridingcenter.org.

u Lighthouse of Collier – Center for Vision and Blindness. This nonprofit organization offers a summer camp program July 5-August 4 for children who are blind and visually impaired.

The education curriculum focuses on helping children with the following: compensatory skills, such as communication modes; orientation and mobility; social interaction skills; independent living skills; recreation and leisure skills; career education; use of assistive technology; self-determination; and visual efficiency skills – all of which help children feel safe in a sighted world. The program is from 9 a.m.-2 p.m., M-F. Call 239-430-3934.

u Audra Boxma, Kathleen Meyerson, and Julie McKenzie are offering a therapeutic summer camp with four hours of therapy each day focusing on social skills, emotional regulation, anger management, self esteem, occupational therapy, academic, and executive functioning skills.

Camp is available for elementary, middle, and high school students.

Space is limited. Call 239-963-7274.

u Naples Performing Arts Center offers its “I’m a Star!” program yearround. It gives students with intellectual challenges numerous opportunities to be “stars” and shine on the stage.

They are challenged with music theory curriculum, vocal and acting classes, and specially designed choreography.

Students perform in various community events, open up for NPAC’s JuniorStage and MainStage productions and hold their very own I’m a STAR Showcase each season. For more information, visit naplesperformingartscenter.com or call 239-597-6722. u Naples Therapeutic Riding Center (formerly Naples Equestrian Challenge) is a non-profit horsemanship organization that provides therapeutic riding opportunities for special needs children. This summer, it is offering summer camp opportunities for special needs children during June and July. For

specifically for children with a wide range of special needs in Naples is great. “It is difficult to afford many of the special needs children’s camp programs offered in the community, and in addition, provide the child with reliable, trustworthy transportation to and from camp, considering many of these parents work full time,” said Robin Goldstone Garcia, Director of Lighthouse of Collier – Center for Vision and Blindness. “All services provided by Lighthouse of Collier, including the summer camp program, are free to our clients, thanks to

Accommodations Many summer camps make accommodations for children with special needs on a case-by-case basis. For example, at the Greater Naples YMCA, “We do not currently have a camp specifically for children with special needs,” said summer camp coordinator, Katie Nelson. “Although we do have children in our traditional day camp who have autism, ADHD, ADD, and other unique needs. My advice to parents is that they reach out to the camp director before they register to see if the camp would be a good fit.”

Contact Nelson at 239-571-9023.

The Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples is another such camp. “Since C’mon has a commitment to have access for all, we are open to a case-by-case evaluation,” said Beth Housewert, director of play and learning. ”We do not have specifically designed camps for students with special needs, but have staff who specialize in accessibility and instruction for children with special needs.”

many generous donations.”

“There are so many wonderful resources for families with children who have special needs,” Gini Phillips said. “Part of the need in our community is getting the word out about these programs and encouraging these people and organizations in what they are doing.”

ANNA SNYDER has a degree in English and Secondary Education from Wheaton College.

She and her husband, Jim, have a daughter, Windley. neafamily.com

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2017 Summer Camp Guide

Are you looking for summer camp for your children? Whether you need one week of specialty camp or an entire summer of daily supervision, we have the answer for you! Check out the following camps – you’ll find the right fit for every child.

Active Learning Video Game Creation and USA Chess Camp 888-652-4377 activelearningcamps.com USA Chess camps are a great way for kids to learn the game in a fun and exciting environment. The USA Chess staff is comprised of the finest children’s chess instructors in North America. Camp is co-ed for ages 8-16 years. Morning, afternoon, and all-day sessions are available. At the Video Game Creation Camps, children 8-16 create their very own video games. Camps are held at The Community School of Naples, June 26-June 30.

Register online starting April 15!

April. Stop by and visit the friendly front desk staff at 5385 Jaeger Rd., Unit 102, Naples, or visit www.naplessummercamp. com for additional information.

Backstage Dance Academy 239-566-3535 www.naplessummercamp.com

Camp Einstein 239-455-3227 templeshalompreschool.org preschool@naplestemple.org

This summer we will offer weekly thematic five-day dance camps for children ages 3-8. Our structured, fun-filled camps will include multiple styles of dance, arts & crafts, and other fun dance activities that will keep your dancer focused and leave them with happy memories and a wonderful summer experience. Crafts and a camp t-shirt are included. 25% sibling discount. Each week will conclude with an in-studio demonstration, so plan to bring your cameras! Registration will begin mid-

Temple Shalom’s Camp Einstein is an exceptional academic camp for children 5-8 years old, led by adult preschool teachers.

This program involves learning through hands-on games, creative writing and illustrating, and thought-provoking activities, providing a wonderful opportunity for the children to expand their knowledge and continue to learn while having a fun and creative experience.

Whether the children are writing a business plan and opening their very own

Covenant Church of Naples Vacation Bible School June 19-23, 2017 • 8:45 a.m. - 12 noon Free Vacation Bible School for children 3 years old to completed 5th grade.

Register online at:

covenantnaples.com 6926 Trail Blvd., Naples, FL 34108 • 239-597-3464 46

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NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

store, designing their very own city and building it, or learning about measurements and baking yummy treats, they are always learning through doing. This seven-week camp bridges the summer gap and helps keep the knowledge ‘in’. Camp Einstein is designed to fill young minds with wonder and possibility, and insure that learning is a year-round experience.

Camp Highlander 828-891-7721 email@camphighlander.com www.camphighlander.com Experience a magical summer at Camp Highlander, a summer camp for girls and boys located on Old Forge Mountain in Mills River, N.C. Year after year, girls and boys from all over the country come to the beautiful mountains of North Carolina and Camp Highlander – a special place where children learn important life lessons about courage, honesty, integrity, and faith while having the time of their lives. Come discover why Camp Highlander is a place like no other.

Camp Shalom 239-455-3227 templeshalompreschool.org preschool@naplestemple.org Temple Shalom’s Camp Shalom is an outstanding seven-week summer program for children ages 2-5. Campers participate in water play, dancing, arts & crafts, STEM activities, cooking, performing arts, foreign language, science, and music, all while exercising their creativity, imagination, talent, and funny bones. Whether they are playing in water or sand, or are covered in paint, they are enjoying the company of friends and the love and caring of fabulous adult teachers and wonderful assistants who engage the children in fun games and exploration in a safe and loving environment created just for them.

Cedar Montessori School 239-597-7190 www.cedarmontessori.com office@cedarmontessori.org Cedar Montessori School offers summer sessions with options for either full- or half-

venture? e ultimate summer ad th ds ki ur yo ve gi to t Wan that has a NAPLES’ only camp e th r fo up em th gn Si ms rolled into one! ra og pr lty ia ec sp n ze do

day fun. Each session will be themed-based and enriched with outdoor activities, water play, cooking, nature exploration, science projects, and a continuation of focus on developing the child’s natural love of music and art. All-day students will be provided with an afternoon work session to facilitate and continue with their academic progress.

Enrollment is open to toddler through lower elementary school children. Cedar Montessori School has been serving Collier County for over 30 years. The spacious campus with two large outdoor play yards is located in a residential area of North Naples at 10904 Winterview Drive.

Children’s Montessori School 239-593-6668 www.childmont.com Children’s Montessori School is excited to present the Animal Discoveries Summer Camp. Camps are held from June 5 to July 28. Campus hours are 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Children’s Montessori School is located at 2535 Northbrooke Plaza Drive across from SuperTarget in North Naples.

Summer

2017

June 5 – July 14

A one stop shop of fun, explorat ion, creativity and en richment, Summer of the Arts caters to ch ildren ages 18 months to 10 years old.

MINORS

MAJORS

• Creative Arts • Weekly Entertainers • Giant Waterslides • Little Chefs • Music • Water Play • Sports • Science • My Gym

• Field Trips • Theater • Creative Arts • Sports • Woodworking • Weekly Entertainers • Beading • Tie Dye • Giant Waterslides • Swimming • Science • Community Involvement • Baking • Culinary Arts

(18 Months-5 Years)

CAMP HOURS: Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

(6-10 Years)

Half day option available for 18 months - 5 years 9:00 am - 12:45 pm Our camp is now in it’s 13th year!

Extended hours available 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

SESSION 1: June 5 – June 16 SESSION 2: June 19 – June 30 SESSION 3: July 3 –July 14 Ask about ou r

Voted #1 for educational services and childcare

To

summerofthearts.com register please call 263-2620 or visit naples

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City of Naples 239-213-3020 www.naplesgov.com jfox@naplesgov.com The City of Naples offers a variety of specialty summer camps offered for pre-K to teens. The specialty camps will be held at many locations within the City of Naples and include camps at Lowdermilk Park, The Naples Preserve, Fleischmann Park, River Park, Anthony Park, The Norris Center, the Arthur L. Allan Tennis Center in Cambier Park, and a variety of other locations. Call Fleischmann Park at 239213-3020; River Park at 239-213-3037; or Norris Center at 239-213-3058.

Collier County Parks & Rec 239-252-4000 www.collierparks.com Collier Parks & Recreation summer camps for children of all ages and abilities. Come experience any of the following camps for elementary and middle-schoolers: day, educational, arts and theater, robotic, video game design, extreme sports, sport, skiing, sailing, and fishing. Camp is only $66 per

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week when you sign up for the full 9 weeks.

10% sibling discount. These fun, exciting, activity-packed camps are held at 10 convenient locations throughout Collier County, June 5 - Aug. 4 (no camp July 4), M-F, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Before- and after-camp care available. Camp Collier offers elementary school day camp for kids in grades K-5 (must be 5 years old by Sep. 1) and middle school day camp for children in grades 6-8.

Secure a spot for your favorite camp by downloading our mobile app or registering through our website, collierparks.com.

8:45 a.m. to noon, for children ages three to those who have completed 5th grade. Children will have a great time at this free VBS while they sing songs, watch skits, create crafts, and play games. We’re looking forward to sharing this rainforest-themed event with children and parents as we learn about how much God loves us. Register online.

Dance Arts by Maria 239-513-6999 www.naplesdancearts.com

Award-winning Conservancy camps have been expanded. Camp days are filled with fun nature exploration, crafts, and games.

Dance Arts by Maria, Inc. offers several summer programs tailored for all ages and levels of dance. Summer dance camps are for ages 3-12 and incorporate dance, arts & crafts, and activities. Summer intensive programs are for the serious dancer and involve several styles of dance in an intensive atmosphere, and summer classes are offered for all ages and levels in all styles. Located at 5610 Yahl St., #10, Naples.

Covenant Church of Naples 239-597-3464 covenantnaples.com

Easterseals 239-403-0366 mturchetta@fl.easterseals.com

SonQuest Rainforest Vacation Bible School will be held at Covenant Church June 19-23,

Easterseals in Naples is planning a unique summer program for individuals with

Conservancy of SW Florida 239-262-0304 x266 www.conservancy.org/ summercamp

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

special needs ages 11-22. There will be two three-week sessions (Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.) jampacked with fun, friendship, learning, field trips, and more. Session 1 is June 12-30 and Session 2 is July 10-28. Both programs are located at 8793 Tamiami Trail E., Suite 111, Naples. For additional information, contact Michelle Turchetta at 239-4030366 or mturchetta@fl.easterseals.com.

Space is limited.

Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead 239-451-3142 www.fullsteamaheadfl.com info@fullsteamaheadfl.com Our world-class summer camp programs are back again for 2017, offering everything from video game creation to dance to 3D printing. All of our campers get snack, free explore time, free early drop-off and late pick up, a free t-shirt, and participation in our Challenge Badge program, designed to keep kids engaged, curious, and always learning more. Complete camp information and registration are available on our website at www.fullsteamaheadfl.com.

Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples 239-514-0084 www.cmon.org

KidzAct Youth Theatre of The Naples Players 239-434-7340 www.naplesplayers.org

Join us for C’mon Summer Camps as we explore space, the sea, grossology, the Wizarding World of C’mon, and much much more. Each full day camp seamlessly blends play and learning as campers do science experiments, explore the museum, and make new friends. Both half day Kinder camps and full day camps for grades 1-6 are available. We sell out fast, so book today.

Located at 15080 Livingston Rd., Naples.

Four sessions of Summer Theatre Camps for students ages 5 to 18 years are offered

by KidzAct Youth Theatre of The Naples Players with a different curriculum for each session. Morning classes are held in all aspects of theatre: acting, singing, dance, and creative dramatics. Additionally, several fully-mounted productions are presented by the talented students each summer. Professionally trained instructors and low teacher-to-student ratio. Scholarships available for all KidzAct offerings.

Gulfshore Playhouse 239-261-7529 Gulfshoreplayhouse.org/ education Gulfshore Playhouse’s unique theater education programs serve SWFL through a variety opportunities for children, teens, and adults. Visit our website for details about our exciting summer camps, such as Aladdin Jr., Into the Woods (directed by Broadway star Jeffrey Binder), and much more.

KidsTek 239-961-0935 www.KidsTeklearning.com johnv@kidsteklearning KidsTek Learning offers a fun filled series of afterschool enrichment programs as well as LEGO and Minecraft camps. Designed and developed by the founder John Van Gilder, an integrated circuit design engineer with

SummerCAMPS2017 hAPPY cAMPERS All of our camps include snack, free explore time, FREE early drop off (8am) and late pick up (5pm) a free t-shirt, and participation in our Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead Challenge Badge program which is designed to keep kids engaged, curious, and always learning more.

Makers and tinkerers Emerging Engineers LOVE our STEAM Camp, 3D Printing and Engineering Camps, the Robotics camps, and the Coding and Game Design camps. Build greatness this summer!

Artists and Musicians Creative kids adore our STEAM Camp, Electric Arts, Smart Art and Exploring Artists camp.

There’s no better way to express themselves, learn new skills, and experiment with new technologies and new ideas this summer!

Schedule

Visit www.fullsteamaheadFL.com for complete pricing, descriptions, ages and enrollment info.

June 6 - 10 June 13 - 17 June 20 - 24 June 26 - 30

STEAM Camp v1.0 Electric Arts || Minecraft Builders || Minecraft Advanced STEAM Camp v2.0 Exploring Artists || Smart Art || Robotics || Coding & Game Design

July 3 - 7 July 10 - 14 July 17 - 21 July 24 - 28

STEAM Camp v3.0 3D Printing || Engineering STEAM Camp v4.0 Electric Arts || Advanced Robotics || Coding & Game Design

July 31 - Aug 4 Aug 7 - 11

STEAM Camp v5.0 Advanced 3D Printing

All camps held @ St. John the Evangelist (625 111th Ave N. Naples, FL)

www.fullsteamaheadFL.com

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

(239) 451-3142

info@fullsteamaheadFL.com

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Now Enrolling INFANT * TODDLER * CHILDREN’S HOUSE VPK * ELEMENTARY * ADOLESCENT School Year Programs for ages 8 weeks to 15 years Summer Programs for ages 3 years to 12 years

Come to an Open House Saturday, April 8, 2017 8:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M.

Wednesday, April 12, 2017 5:00 P.M to 6:00 P.M.

or

Call to schedule a private tour

239-597-2255

More information can be found on our website

www.naplesmontessori.org

2659 Professional Circle, Suite 1118, Naples, Florida 34119 License #C20CO0026

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

Our 21s t year!

Coed 8-16 Design and create a one-of-a-kind video game Platform Style Adventure Style with Kodu Modding, Networking & Hosting with Minecraft

www.activelearningcamps.com

June 26 - June 30, 2017 The Community School of Naples • Naples FL 888-652-4377 50

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more than 25 years experience, all KidsTek programs are focused on teaching and inspiring a future generation of innovators in science and engineering. Whether it’s playing with LEGO models of their own design or building LEGO models designed by KidsTek, kids will have a great time in one of the LEGO camps while learning about space exploration, architecture, car design, amusement park design, and create/build models from Star Wars. In the Minecraft camps, kids learn how redstone and command blocks work. Located at 10904 Winterview Dr., Naples.

Montessori Academy of Naples 239-597-2255 www.naplesmontessori.org Summer Programs: Elementary for 6-12 year olds; Children’s House for 3-5 year olds. Children will have a summer of mystery solving, skill building, and fun at Montessori Academy of Naples. The program is an eclectic mix of activities that ask and answer everyday questions like “how do you make paper”, “how do plants grow”, or “how do you fly a kite?” Areas of emphasis will be on fostering social grace and courtesy; developing practical and personal skills for both work and play; and encouraging scientific inquiry and experimentation.

Each program will enjoy age-appropriate activities that reinforce the idea of building specific skills and knowledge. All programs are set in a prepared Montessori environment and incorporate an outside time each day, weather permitting. Conveniently located just off Immokalee Road at interstate 75, next to Hodges University.

Naples Art Association 239-262-6517 www.NaplesArt.org Aimee.Schlehr@NaplesArt.org ARTScool immerses local children ages 5-14 in the arts throughout the summer. Courses are intertwined with math, science, language, history, technology, art, and design from accredited art instructors.

ARTScool students design and construct buildings, create kaleidoscopes, build robots, and much, much more. With two class times daily (9 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.), this is the perfect opportunity for a child to dip his or her toes in the art pool, or even dive right in! The NAA also now offers Homeschool Arts Education in Elementary Art Adventure, Junior Art Adventure, Elementary Creative Clay, and Junior Creative Clay. And, Collier County high school art students have opportunities to earn scholarships to pursue their artistic studies at the collegiate level.

Naples Performing Arts Center 239-597-6722 naplesperformingartscenter.com NPAC offers a variety of summer camps focused on the performing arts. Students are immersed in acting, dancing. music, audition technique, tap, ballet, stage presence, and more. Exclusive camps that bring in Broadway artists to train students who are serious about the arts. Full day and half day camps offered. 2017 camps include, but not limited to: The Broadway Artist Alliance, Triple Threat, Beauty & the Beast Showcase, Straight from New York, Stage Choreography, and High School Musical Camp. NPAC also offers its “I’m a Star!”

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Founded in 1957, CampCamp Highlander is a summer for boys and girls the Founded in 1957, Highlander is acamp summer camp for in boys beautiful mountains of Western North Carolina. Between rock climbing, arts and girls in the beautiful mountains of Western North Carolina. and crafts, a high ropes course, hiking/backpacking, canoeing/kayaking and There is never a dull moment camp with activities such as many other activities, there’s never a at dull moment on fun camp!

With an emphasis on developing young and women of courage,course, honesty, ziplining, integrity and faith, rock climbing, themen high ropes challenge hiking/ Camp Highlander truly is a place like nowoodworking other! backpacking, canoeing/kayaking, painting, and

much more.

With an emphasis on 5-10), developing young men and Rookie 1: (6 days, ages June 11-16 Sidebar Text womenSubtitle of courage, honesty, integrity and faith, Rookie 2: (6 days, ages 18-23 Camp Highlander truly is a5-10), place June like no other!

Session 1: A: (6 (13days, days,ages ages5-10), 5-14),June June 11-16 11-23 Rookie Rookie days,ages ages6-16), 5-10),June June 18-2314 Session B: 2: (20(6days, 25-July Session A: (13 days, ages 5-14), June 11-23 Session C: (20 days, ages 8-16) July 16-August 4 Session B: (20 days, ages 6-16), June 25-July 14 Father/Son Session C: (20 days, Weekend: ages 8-16)June July 2-4 16-August 4 Father/Son Weekend: Weekend:September June 2-4 8-10 Mother/Daughter Mother/Daughter Weekend: September 8-10 Family Camp: May 26-29 Family Camp: May 26-29

42 Dalton Road, Mills River, NC 28759, 828-891-7721, www.camphighlander.com

42 Dalton Rd., Mills River, NC 28759, 828-891-7721 www.camphighlander.com

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program year-round., which gives students with intellectual challenges opportunities to be “stars” and shine on the stage. They are challenged with music theory curriculum, vocal and acting classes, and specially designed choreography. Students perform in various community events, open up for NPAC’s JuniorStage and MainStage productions and hold their very own I’m a STAR Showcase.

Precious Cargo Academy 239-261-7442 www.preciouscargoacademy.org Precious Cargo, a full-time, year-round daycare and preschool, offers summer camp for toddlers and preschoolers as well as VPK. Academics include mathematics, science, and literacy skills. Field trips to destinations like Barnes & Noble, Artis-Naples, and the Naples Zoo are included. Located at 5200 Crayton Rd., Naples.

Summer of the Arts 239-263-2620 Naplessummerofthearts.com Our phenomenal award-winning program integrates the various creative/cultural arts and educational themes in a safe, experiential, and spirited setting. We offer children opportunities to explore through music, art, baking, sports, drama, dance, and science.

Children have fun in the sun with outdoor water play and older children go on weekly trips throughout Collier County. The camp tempo and unique blend of activities transmitted by our nurturing educators and professional instructors makes Summer of the Arts the

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perfect setting for any Naples child! Our one-stop shop of fun and enrichment caters to children 18 months to 10 years old with specially designed programs to maximize each child’s experience. Dates: Monday through Friday June 5 - July 14. Full and half day options.

Reading Rescue 239-233-9400 ReadingRescueCenters.com info@ReadingRescueCenters.com Summer program includes Individual Intensive Reading Intervention for challenged readers grades K-4. Also, SAT Prep for Reading, Writing, and Essay sections.

Rock Star Cheer 239-261-6221 rockstarcheerswfl.com michele@rockstarcheerswfl.com Rockstar is the perfect place for your kids to stay active, safe, and healthy during any school break. Join us the weeks of June 5-9, July 10-14, and July 31-Aug. 4 (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) for our annual cheerleading and tumbling summer camp, and July 17-21 for our brand new Ninja Camp. Space is extremely limited. Register today.

Located at 2383 Linwood Way, Naples.

Salvation Army 239-210-4006 l salvationarmynaples.org The Salvation Army Fran Cohen Youth Center will host a summer

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

day camp, offering engaging and educational activities for children ages 6-12. M-F, June 5-Aug. 4, 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Cost is $70 per week. $25 registration. Includes three field trips a week and lunch daily.

NAPLES PREMIER YOUTH THEATRE

South Breeze Day Camp 239-213-8001 southbreezedaycamp.com South Breeze Day Camp is back for its eighth summer of action packed fun, friendships and lifetime memories. The six-week program (June 12-July 21) is held on the campus of St. John Neumann High School and offers sports leagues, musical theatre shows, a dynamic hands-on science and nature program, arts & crafts, plus the exciting Special Event days. Camp hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with early drop-off and late pick-up available. Our camper-tocounselor ration is kept low to ensure that your child gets all the attention they need to feel safe and supported.

The Greater Naples YMCA 239-963-3775 www.greaternaplesymca.org knelson@greaternaplesymca.org

Providing exceptional youth theatre education & performances for ages 4+ for over 20 years

CAMP E R T A E ER TH ANCES M M U RM TS GREA & PERFO

YOUTH THEATRE OF THE NAPLES PLAYERS

Summer camps at the Y share one thing: they’re about discovery.

Children have the opportunity to explore nature, find new talents, try new activities, gain independence, and make lasting memories.

And it’s fun, too. Campers from grades K-5 will enjoy weekly themes, sports, activities, and field trips.

KidzAct Youth Theatre of The Naples Players Sugden Theatre • 701 5th Ave. South • Naples • FL 34102

www.naplesplayers.org (239) 434-7340

TNP KIDZACT MARCH 2017 QUARTER PAGE AD.indd 1

City of Naples

Summer 2017 Theater Camps Sports Camps Beach Camps Art & Science Camps Adult Programs

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

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2/10/17 12:50 PM

Check us out on Facebook

Registration for City of Naples Residents Begins April 3rd Registration for Non-City Residents Begins April 17th For more information contact Fleischmann Park at 239-213-3020

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CHILD CARE SERVICES

Masters Degree CPR, First Aid Certified Clean driving and FBI record Day/Evening/Overnight 239-631-3041

Ms. Lorel Naples Ad.pdf 2/14/2017 2:01:11 PM

RED CROSS SWIM LESSONS

Group/Private Your Pool or Mine Infant - Adult Over 30 yrs Experience Reasonable Rates Certified & Insured

239-465-8602 Naples only Mother/Daughter team!

is happy to introduce a complete

Children’s Birthday

Package!!!

www.essentialswimlessons.com

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!

C

2205 E. Tamiami Trail Naples, FL 34112

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We pave the way by opening pathways to opportunity and creating a more inclusive world.

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The Easterseals Academy and LEAP located in Naples provide specialized programming for students, ages 11 and up, with developmental disabilities, autism, and related conditions. With a strong focus on employability skills training and functional academics, students are immersed in our community for optimal learning and development.

For more information call 239.403.0366 or visit easterseals.com/florida.

Grandparent Alert!

Get this book before the grandchildren arrive.

It’s the best activity planning guide ever, & you’ll amaze them with your coolness!

Available at bookstores, children’s stores, and gift shops. Or visit mostlykidsguides.com.

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(239) 793-4999 www.coralcaygolf.com

ABC Swim School

Survival swimming lessons for babies & toddlers 6 months to 4 years old in your backyard pool in Naples.

Lessons are held Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon.

Call 239-272-0529 for more information or to schedule lessons.

abcswimschoolnaples.com

Certified by PediaSwim Member of Infant Aquatics Network Infant and Child CPR and First Aid Certified NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2017

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