Neapolitan Family Digital Issue October 2021 by Neapolitan Family

OCTOBER 2021

COMPLIMENTARY

2021 Fall Festival Guide! The Cutest Halloween Costumes Finding the Right Tutor Supporting Your Child With ADHD Destination: Space NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2021

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October 2021 TABLE OF CONTENTS

in every issue . . . 7

FROM THE PUBLISHER

YOUR COMMUNITY

COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS UPDATE

on the cover…

11 Buying a Home. Find out how to get started. by Laney Farrugia 12 Piper’s Story. Learn what living with ulcerative colitis is like for this month’s cover kid and her family. by Stacy Nicolau 14 ADHD and Your Child. Advice from a pediatrician on how to support your child with ADHD. by Alicia Fernandez-Garcia, M.D.

16 Finding the Right Tutor. Tips on getting your child the academic assistance they need to succeed. by Kimberly Blaker Piper Anastasia Brown is 11 years old and in sixth grade at eCollier Virtual Academy. She loves acting, singing, gaming, and watching Stranger Things. Piper has been involved in theater since she was 5 years old, and aspires to be a professional actress. She has two dogs, Mazzy and Waffles. Cover photo by Monica Alvarez of Monica Alvarez Photography www.monicaalvarezphotography.com 305-815-3495 info@monicaalvarezphotography.com

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18 Fall Family Fun. The best local fall festivals and Halloween events. 26 The Cutest Halloween Ever. Check out these new adorable costumes. 28 Destination: Space. It’s time to plan your trip to the Kennedy Space Center. by Karen T. Bartlett

NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2021

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from the publisher… the parenting magazine devoted to collier county

P.O. Box 110656 Naples, FL 34108 info@neafamily.com 2020

2020

THIS MONTH Fall Family Fun

Co-Publisher Leigh Ann Newman lanewman@neafamily.com 239-272-0529 Co-Publisher Stacy Nicolau snicolau@neafamily.com 239-370-5333 Travel Editor Karen T. Bartlett mostlykidsguides@gmail.com 239-595-9026 Feature Writer Anna Snyder Digital Editor Claudia Metsch Editorial submissions are welcome. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all material contributed. We cannot be responsible for return of any unsolicited materials. Articles and advertisements in Neapolitan Family do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher nor does the publisher assume responsibility for statements made by our advertisers or editorial contributors. Acceptance of advertising by Neapolitan Family does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service that is fraudulent or misleading in nature. Neapolitan Family is available free of charge at distribution points throughout Collier County as well as digitally at neafamily.com. Neapolitan Family is ©2021 by Neapolitan Family Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited. NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2021

Florida is all about living life in the great outdoors, and taking advantage of the abundant sunshine and warm temperatures. October is one of the best times to get out of the house in Southwest Florida, before the bulk of the crowds have descended on our region. Turn to page 18 for our lengthy list of outdoor pumpkin patches and fall festivals, as well as Halloween events (some indoors). Please check with the organizers before you attend – last-minute changes and cancellations are more common than ever, and we don’t want you to be disappointed. You also should regularly check our online calendar at https://neafamily.com, as we will continually be updating information and adding new events. Subscribe to our weekly eNewsletter to have the best family events in SWFL each week delivered right to your inbox. It’s also the perfect time of year for a road trip. How many of us have said we would take the family to the Kennedy Space Center and yet never make it past the theme parks in Orlando? I’ve been guilty of this for 15 years. Go to page 28, and read Travel Editor Karen T. Bartlett’s article for the inspiration you need to finally get your family to Cape Canaveral. Our Cover Kids contest is back! If you want to see your adorable children on one of our covers, go to page 32 (the back cover) for more details on how to enter. The contest opens Oct. 1, and we can’t wait to see your kids! Happy Fall!

Leigh Ann

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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

Renovated Naples Lionel Train Museum Reopens Oct. 22

ollowing a lengthy hiatus because of the pandemic, the Naples Lionel Train Museum will reopen to the public on Friday, Oct. 22, at 10 a.m. The museum was renovated during the closure and features new trains, accessories, landscaping, and boarding area. The museum will be open on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free for children younger than 3; $4 for children 3-14; $8 for individuals older than 14; and $4 for first responders, medical staff, and active duty military and veterans with ID. The price includes unlimited rides on the outdoor train. The train museum and train ride are available for private birthday parties on Saturdays from 2-4 p.m. The museum is located at the Naples Depot Museum at 1051 Fifth Ave. S., Naples. Visit www.naplestrainmuseum.org or email naplestrainmuseum@comcast.net.

Bonita Springs Wonder Gardens Seeks Adult and Teen Volunteers

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he Wonder Gardens in Bonita Springs is looking for volunteers. Opportunities are available indoors and outdoors for high school and college students, and adults. Teenagers younger than 16 must volunteer with a parent or guardian. Volunteer opportunities include: • Horticulture/gardening. Weed, pot, dig, prune, sweep, clear debris, and relocate plants. Minimum shift: 2 hours. • Animal care. Help distribute food and water to wildlife and help keep enclosures and pools clean. Minimum shift: 4 hours. Must be at least 18 years old and available at least once a week for a minimum of 12 weeks. • Education docents. Give tours to members and guests. Training will be provided. • Office support. Write, take photos and video, and design and create presentations. NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2021

• Operations/facilities. Help staff maintain and clean the gardens. Minimum shift: 4 hours. • Special events. Help register guests, interact with the public, help with children’s activities, and monitor school groups during educational programs. Visit https://wondergardens.org/volunteers-interns for an application or email jessi@wondergardens.org for more details.

The Conservancy of Southwest Florida’s Tonya Zadrozny leads a group of middle schoolers during the Survivors program.

Conservancy, Rookery Bay Partner to Bring Back Field Trips

he Conservancy of Southwest Florida has resumed its partnership with Rookery Bay Natural Estuarine Research Reserve for the Survivors program, a science field trip program for seventh-grade students in Collier County that was paused because of the pandemic. The program starts again this month for students from Golden Gate and Manatee middle schools. Rookery Bay started the program in 2015, holding sessions at Rookery Bay’s educational learning center and then at the field station at the edge of the estuary. The Conservancy partnered in 2019 to double the number of students who could participate in the program, bringing its Good Fortune II, a 35-passenger pontoon boat, to take participants out on the water for hands-on observation and data collection. Now, visiting classes of up to 60 students and teachers are split into two groups. One performs lab work on marine invertebrate adaptations and shark movements at Rookery Bay’s field station. Another group goes out on the Good Fortune II with Conservancy educators and uses real scientific tools to collect plankton samples and measure water quality parameters to assess the health of the estuary. Students compare the ecosystem health of two locations after switching experiences with the other group. “We wanted to be able to bring more students out,” says Jeannine Windsor, education specialist and outreach coordinator for Rookery Bay Research Reserve. “We have a strong history with the Conservancy, and they already had a dock and boat, so we decided to work together to make it a more immersive experience. Studying water quality becomes more exciting [for students] when they are surrounded by it.” Visit www.conservancy.org and https://rookerybay.org. NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2021

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COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

By Jennifer L. Kupiec

CCPS Students Are Connecting for Success

ollier County Public Schools is committed to supporting student success and continuously strengthens its efforts every year. While the global pandemic certainly has affected the last two school years, taking a toll on students both academically and mentally, CCPS once again is stepping up in hopes of addressing areas of concern. “Our 48,000 students have expressed the need to establish meaningful connections with peers and adults in their school,” says Superintendent Kamela Patton, Ph.D. “The need to develop a sense of belonging with the school community. The need for a trusted adult who understands them and they can talk to. The need for support to learn and grow academically, socially, and emotionally.” It is for these reasons CCPS rolled out its Connect for Success initiative this school year. Through Connect for Success, the district created a dedicated time twice a week for students to focus on Leader in Me, a program specifically designed for schools and based on the concepts from The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. “Connect for Success is a way we can increase student achievement and bring students and staff together in an intentional way, anchored by college, career, and life-

ready skills,” adds Patton. Like the name suggests, Connect for Success will provide a purposeful opportunity every Tuesday and Thursday for every adult in every building to develop meaningful relationships with a small group of students. Optimally, at the middle and high school levels students will stay in a cohort with the same teacher throughout their years in that school, providing the opportunity to establish strong, trusting relationships. The Connect for Success lessons were developed specific to each grade level and incorporate a variety of resources, including videos, discussion questions, and activities intentionally designed for high engagement. “We talk about the Leader in Me habits, finding your voice, and working hard, no excuses,” says elementary student Brooks Brown. “It’s okay to make mistakes.” “Every student should have somebody on campus who they can trust to share good, bad, and indifferent news with,” says Jessica Vieira, principal at Veterans Memorial Elementary. “You’re actually going to see behaviors decrease and academics increase as students feel connected.” As Patton explains, “The ultimate goal is to connect, build trusting relationships,

Students at Veterans Memorial Elementary participate in a Connect for Success classroom activity.

and cultivate a sense of community to better support our students in achieving their individual goals and dreams.”

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NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2021

REAL ESTATE

By Laney Farrugia

Purchasing Your Family’s Home: Where to Start

eality TV makes it seem like you should call a Realtor, see three houses, and pay just under asking for the home of your dreams. The truth is, there are some steps you absolutely must take before you step foot inside of a home. These steps will make certain you are able to buy a great home that fits your budget. Strengthen your credit score Your credit score will play a huge part in the interest rate you will pay on your mortgage, so taking time to improve it is well worth it. Run your free annual credit report (https://annualcreditreport. com) and look for any negative marks. Work to fix these so your score improves. Small changes to your credit report could mean lots of savings in your future. Lower your debt-to-income ratio by paying down your debts Your debt-to-income ratio simply takes your debt and divides it by your income. What this means is that to improve the ratio, you can either make more money (very challenging) or pay down your debt. If you have the ability to pay down debt without sacrificing your down payment savings, it is worth it. This also will have an influence on your interest rate, so do not let this slide. Save for your down payment and closing costs One of the most common misconceptions I hear from people is that they cannot buy because they do not have 20% to put down on their home. This misconception has cost people so much time and rent money, and it simply isn’t true. It’s great if you can put down 20% on a home, which saves you a monthly private mortgage insurance fee, but most buyers cannot. The most common amounts are 5% down for a condo and 3.5% down for a single family home. There are various programs with different down payment requirements, so speak with your lender about the options available. Hire a Realtor to work for you No surprise here – this is my favorite step! A Realtor is a licensed real estate professional who belongs to the National Association of Realtors. Hiring a Realtor is a huge step for you to take because this person not only must be an expert in the area, but also will negotiate on your behalf to get you the home you need at a price you can afford. Interview a few agents to find out who you are most comfortable with. Ask about their most recent sales, local knowledge, and availability. Think about your needs: If you work NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2021

normal business hours, you will need an agent who answers the phone and shows property after business hours and on weekends. Pick your mortgage broker and get preapproved Finding a mortgage broker that you want to work with and is reliable enough to get you to the closing table can be a tough task. After you’ve hired a Realtor, ask for a lender recommendation. Remember, an experienced agent has worked with many different lenders, so this recommendation is valuable. Once you have applied for a mortgage and received approval, you will have a strong estimate of what interest rate you will pay and, more importantly, you will know how much home you can afford. Narrow down your search by limiting geographic areas One of the quickest ways we can refine your search results for your home is to know where you want to live geographically. Here in Naples, we commonly hear people say they want to be west of I-75, have land, or be close to a school. Perhaps you have a maximum time you want to commute to work, a church you want to live near, or restaurants and activities you like. Whatever your situation is, narrowing down the geographic area will help you focus in on the individual homes to pursue. Purchasing a home can be an exciting but stressful time. With the right team, things will go smoothly for you and your family. Happy house hunting!

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YOUR COMMUNITY

By Stacy Nicolau

Piper’s Story Acting, Singing, a Dog Named Dorian, and Living with a Chronic Illness

ccording to the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis belong to a group of conditions known as inflammatory bowel diseases. These disorders affect the gastrointestinal tract, causing painful and debilitating symptoms in nearly 1.6 million Americans, including Piper Anastasia Brown, Neapolitan Family’s October 2021 Cover Kid. We talked to Piper and her mother, Alexia, about how this disorder has affected Piper and her family. At what age did Piper begin to show symptoms of ulcerative colitis, and what was the path to diagnosis? Alexia: Piper was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in January 2021. Our pediatrician, Dr. Sara Lane, was very thorough when Piper became symptomatic and quickly got us on the right path to a diagnosis. Piper receives monthly infusion treatments at Golisano Children’s Hospital, and she is under the care of the IBD Center at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital in Miami. How has living with this disease affected your family? Alexia: Piper is on an immunosuppressive treatment, which has been even more challenging due to the pandemic. We take extra precautions to keep her healthy, limit travel and interactions, and spend a lot of time on Zoom. Piper is unable to attend school at this time since masks are optional. It is a balancing act to protect her health and also provide her with a sense of normalcy. Piper continues to persevere emotionally, socially, and academically, and we are very proud of how well she has handled such a challenging condition with a pandemic added to the mix. What would you like for people to know about this disease? Piper: When I was first diagnosed I

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NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2021

felt sad and anxious because I didn’t know what to expect, and I wish I didn’t have ulcerative colitis. Now I feel more comfortable with things like my infusions. At Golisano they have a therapy dog named Dorian and he helps distract me because I don’t like needles. I would like people to know it gets better and don’t give up. Even on the rough days, remember to listen to your body, and don’t forget better days are ahead. Alexia: Ulcerative colitis is an invisible illness and like most chronic conditions, it is life altering. Flares are unpredictable, and it is a challenging condition to treat, but there is hope. The amount of research being done is encouraging. We are very confident in Piper’s doctors, and we are hopeful that she will reach remission in the future.

In The Main Theatre

How has the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation helped your experience? Alexia: The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation has offered us a wealth of information from patient and caretaker education, a local support group, and the latest research. The most valuable experience from the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation has been Camp Oasis. It is a weeklong summer camp for children with ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Due to the pandemic, it was virtual this summer. It gave Piper the opportunity to connect with other kids that truly understand what she is going through. We are very grateful to the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation for providing such an invaluable experience and hope Piper can attend in person next summer. What are your hobbies? Piper: My hobbies are acting, playing video games, singing, and watching Stranger Things. What are your favorite subjects in school? Piper: My favorite subjects are music and social studies. What would you like to be when you grow up? Piper: I want to be an actress when I grow up. I’ve been doing theater since I was 5 years old. The first thing I learned how to read was a script for Peter Pan. How has living with ulcerative colitis affected your school life and hobbies? Piper: I am immunocompromised because of my medication. I can’t go to school in person since masks are not required. I have not been able to do a show for theater since last year. I really miss both, and I can’t wait until things with COVID-19 get better. I have been taking private acting classes with Tish Poorman from Children for the Arts. I have also been doing auditions for camera work because most are being done virtually right now. NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2021

OCTOBER 7 – NOVEMBER 20 This Rodgers and Hammerstein musical has touched the hearts of audiences around the world for decades. Follow Maria, the high-spirited, aspiring nun as she is sent from her convent to be the governess to seven unruly children of a strict father, Captain von Trapp. The timeless score includes Do-Re-Mi, My Favorite Things, Climb Ev’ry Mountain, Sixteen Going on Seventeen, Edelweiss and The Sound of Music.

In The Off Broadway Palm NOW – NOV 6 The hilarious comedy about a happily married couple who live in the art world of New York. Their domestic tranquility is shattered upon the arrival of the wife’s goodygoody sister, her uptight brotherin-law, and her aging mother. The comedic sparks really begin to fly when the mother hits it off with an elderly minimalist artist who is the art dealers’ best client!

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YOUR FAMILY’S HEALTH

By Alicia Fernandez-Garcia, M.D., FAAP, Healthcare Network of Florida

How to Support Your Child With ADHD

ife with a child diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder sometimes can be overwhelming. Often, children with ADHD struggle with behaviors that can be disruptive to others, such as difficulty paying attention, sitting still, and controlling impulsive behavior. Their inability to focus can affect learning and friendships while also placing a lot of stress on the family. However, it is important to remember that a child with ADHD is not intentionally being difficult or lazy; they often are trying as hard as they can to focus. While there is no cure, the following tips can help families support a child with ADHD. • Learn all you can about the disorder. This will help you better understand how ADHD affects your child. This information also will be important as you work with their pediatrician to develop a treatment plan to meet your child’s specific needs. Fortunately, there is a lot of information on ADHD out there, from support groups to websites to books. Just make sure your source is reputable. Generally websites registered by government and

educational institutions are credible. Additionally, nonprofit websites such as https://chadd.org (Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) can be excellent resources. Take the time to review the site for signs of reliability. • Talk to your child about their diagnosis. No matter what their age, it is important your child understands why they may feel different or have difficulty managing their symptoms. When a child understands their diagnosis, they are more likely to work on skills to improve self-control. Be sure to use words they can understand and encourage questions to diffuse potential fears and anxieties about their diagnosis. Explain ADHD is a condition they are born with, and it is not something they caused, but they need to work to manage it. Remember, one conversation is just the beginning. As your child grows, conversations will continue to be important to help them cope with new challenges. • Create structure. Children with ADHD often have difficulty maintaining their focus. The predictable and repetitive nature of a

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NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2021

Spinal Health is imperative for a healthy life

Looking after your, and your families health, also includes keeping check of your spinal health. Just

daily routine is helpful because it takes much of the guesswork out • Partner with school. Sitting still, listening, and concentrating like we check things like our child's teeth, eyes and ears, it’s important to pay attention to any of their day and allows them to focus on one thing at time. for long periods of time are necessary classroom skills children with changes their spines. checks can help with earlyoften detection of any spinal which Considerinestablishing routinesRegular around waking up, homework, ADHD struggle with. To help yourissues, child succeed, work with meals, playtime, and bedtime. This may include designating a time their teacher to determine realistic goals for improving weaknesses, includes scoliosis. All girls should be checked before the age of 10 and boys before 12. and quiet space for homework. Children stay more focused when an as rule following, peer relations, and academic success. Talk to We also treat adults for scoliosis and kyphosis issuessuch that have gone uncorrected and worsened adult is nearby, so be sure to keep them in sight. your child’s teacher about their strengths and problem areas, and over years. routines should be regularly followed by all Tothe be effective, share strategies that have worked at home to keep your child on track. adults that care for your child, including grandparents and babysitters. Encourage teachers to share their observations. At times it may Dr.• Praise T Foster Bryant your child. It is important to correct all children when be hard to hear feedback about your child’s behavior, but try not to Early detection & treatment can make all the difference South Florida’s Premier ScoliCare Provider they misbehave; however, due to their lack of impulse control, kids take it personally. Instead, use these conversations as opportunities Early detection and then early intervention leads to better patient outcomes including wider with ADHD often receive a lot of correction and criticism in school to focus on solutions. Like you, teachers want to see your child do opportunities for treatment. Particularly for children or adolescents areis rapidly or older and at home. Constant critiques of their behavior such as “sit still, well. If your child’swho ADHD getting in growing, the way of their ability to focus, andwith stop pain doing and that” decreased can be discouraging andofwearing on learn, ask if your would be eligible for services adults quality life, earlier detection canchild provide access to special a range of through Spinal Health is imperative for a healthy lifean individualized education program or a 504 special education plan. their self-esteem. non-surgical scoliosis treatment options including modern 3D bracing andofexercise programs, Just Looking after your, and your families also includes keeping check your Praise not only boosts self-esteem but alsohealth, can encourage • Get help. Behavior therapy for spinal children health. is an effective treatleading to behaviors. incredibler treatment outcomes. Ourand approach uses thehelps latest advanced repeated Praise should be sincere, immediate, ment option that strengthen positive behaviors like wegood check things like our child's teeth, eyes and ears, it’s important totechnological pay attention to anyand eliminate system NOT traditional bracing that does not have corrective outcomes. specific. Forand example, rather than Regular saying “good job” or “thank you” problem behaviors. I often recommend alsowhich participate in changes in their spines. checks can help with early detection of any spinal parents issues, be moretraditional specific, suchtreatment as “Wow, you did a great jobitlistening whenenough behavioral parent training to learn skills and strategies to help their The is wait until gets back for surgeryYIKES! scoliosis. All table.” girls should checked the consistently age of 10manage and boys before 12. Iincludes asked you to set the dinner or “Thankbe you for stayingbefore by child ADHD symptoms. We also treat adults for scoliosis and kyphosis issues that have gone uncorrected and worsened my side at the store.” At times caring for a child with ADHD can leave parents • Add feeling frustrated, stressed, and embarrassed. It is important to over theactivity. years.It is well known that consistent physical activity is important to overall health and well-being. For this reason, I recomremember that you are not alone. The Centers for Disease Control mend all kids have at least 60 minutes of moderate to intense physical and Prevention estimates 6.1 million children have been diagnosed TOP 20 SCOLIBRACE PROVIDERS IN THE THE WORLD Earlyevery detection treatment can make all the activity day. However,&children with ADHD especially benefit withdifference ADHD. However, with the right treatment, support, time, INTERNATIONAL CHIROPRACTIC PEDIATRIC CERTIFIED from exercise because it burns excess energy and stimulates the brain and patience, children with ADHD can thrive. Early detection and then early intervention leads to better patient outcomes including wider POSTURE AND SPINAL DEFORMITY by boosting dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotoninFOCUS – all or adolescents who are rapidly growing, or older opportunities for treatment. Particularly forlevels children of which affect focus and attention. If you sense your child needs a ALICIA FERNANDEZ-GARCIA, M.D., FAAP, is a board-certified adults with pain andthat decreased quality of life, such earlier pediatrician detectionwith canHealthcare provideNetwork. accessVisit to healthcareswfl.org a range of or call break, especially with tasks require lengthy concentration scoliosis treatment options including 3D bracing and exercise programs, asnon-surgical homework, encourage them to get up and move for a few minutes. modern 239-658-3000.

leading to incredibler treatment outcomes. Our approach uses the latest technological advanced system and NOT traditional bracing that does not have corrective outcomes. The traditional treatment is wait until it gets back enough for surgery- YIKES!

Corrective, Non-surgical Treatment for Scoliosis

TOP 20 SCOLIBRACE PROVIDERS IN THE THE WORLD INTERNATIONAL CHIROPRACTIC PEDIATRIC CERTIFIED POSTURE ANDedit SPINAL DEFORMITY s Add-ons Help Last was made 1 hour ago byFOCUS Erin Bryant Image options 1

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Dr. T. Foster Bryant has been taking care of the Naples community for 18 years and providing long-term results for his patients. He believes in FIND IT EARLY and FIX IT EARLY. Just as we have our children's teeth, eyes and hearing checked – we must check their spine! We want to ensure the healthiest version of them imaginable.

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EDUCATION

By Kimberly Blaker

Finding the D Right Tutor for Your Child

oes your child have a learning disability, poor or declining grades, poor time management skills, or difficulty understanding homework? If so, tutors are an effective way to get kids back on track and keep them there. But how do you find a good, reliable tutor you can trust? And what if hiring a tutor isn’t in your budget? Today, there are many options. How to find a tutor Your child’s teacher and the school administrator are an excellent place to start. They might be able to recommend a tutor in your community or online resources to help your child. Also, chances are one of your child’s friends has a tutor. So, ask other parents for a recommendation.

Tutoring is an effective way to get your child back on track academically and keep them there

Check local publications such as Neapolitan Family magazine for local tutors advertising their services (see page 17), or the academic listings in the CCPS Activities Guide. Both can be found online at https://neafamily.com. Another option is to search online for tutors in your area. You’ll likely find a couple of local tutoring companies. These often offer on-site tutoring, but some might offer in-home tutoring as well. There are also many websites developed for helping parents find tutors. Takelessons.com has a searchable database of tutors. Just enter your ZIP code and the school subject to find tutors in your area. This site also shows tutors’ ratings and their fees per session. Another source is Care.com, which connects people with various service professionals, including tutors. Experience in tutoring varies widely, however. So, check their reviews and ask for references. Online tutoring is another popular choice, though it may not be right for every child. Also, do your research because the reviews of many online tutoring companies are fair to mediocre, at best. The costs of online tutoring aren’t always consistent with quality. Free tutoring If tutoring isn’t in your budget, there are several options. First, check with your child’s school. Some schools offer one-on-one tutoring programs for eligible students. Many schools also offer after-school group tutoring. Kids can stay after school to work on their homework with assistance from a teacher. Some teachers also offer after-school tutoring for their students. If tutoring isn’t available at your kid’s school, ask trusted family members, neighbors, and friends if they can help. You might discover someone you know is enthused to help your struggling child. Another option is to contact your local high school and community college. Students majoring in particular subjects or teaching are required to do a certain number of hours of tutoring. For that reason, students often offer it for free. There’s also the popular Khan Academy website, which offers free online video tutorials for students at all levels. Visit www. khanacademy.org.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2021

What to look for in a tutor There are several factors to consider when looking for a tutor. These include:

Tracey Ansteth Albert

Is the tutor qualified? Your best bet is to look for someone with a teaching degree, because tutoring requires skills that not everyone possesses. For younger students, if the tutor has a teaching degree, specialization in a particular subject isn’t necessary. For high school and beyond, look for a tutor with expertise in the subject your child needs help with.

Former CCPS Teacher for 10 Years Golden Apple Award Recipient

Does the tutor have the right personality? First, a tutor should be patient, empathetic, positive, passionate, creative, and fun. These characteristics help ensure your child can learn from the tutor and will walk away with self-confidence. Also, the tutor’s personality should be a good fit for your child. It’s essential the tutor and your child connect with each other. Is the tutor flexible? Each child has their own best learning style. It might be visual, aural, physical, verbal, logical, or any combination of these. Also, some kids are solitary learners, whereas others are social learners and enjoy learning in groups. Look for a setting and tutor that fits your kid’s style. Does the tutor have excellent references? Online tutoring services often have reviews from previous clients. Look for those with overall high ratings and positive comments. But beware of reviews directly on the tutoring company’s website, since these often can be manipulated. If you find your tutor offline or find very few reviews, ask for several references. Still, the references a tutor provides might not be an entirely accurate depiction of their character and experience either. So, use due diligence for your child’s safety and to ensure your child receives quality service.

TUTORING

239-572-8643 TA1019@aol.com

Reading, Language Arts, Social Studies, Math, Organizational Skills, and Homework Assistance

• Grades K-3 • Flexible hours • Clean, calm, positive environment

TUTORING FOR STRUGGLING READERS Intervention That Works

Susan Atchison

Reading, Language Arts, Organizational Skills In Person, Grades K-5 35 Years Elementary Education Teacher Licensed with Reading Endorsement 8 years Title I Tutor Wilson Reading System Certified Orton-Gillingham Trained

(330) 620-6892 • https://tutoringstrugglingreaders.com

Questions to Ask a Tutor 1. What is your teaching philosophy? 2. Where will the sessions take place? 3. How long is each session? 4. How much is each session? 5. What is your cancellation policy? 6. What are your qualifications?

One-to-one personalized tutoring. No contracts. Subjects include but not limited to SAT/ACT prep, college applications and essays, and all elementary/middle/high school subjects. Experienced tutors with BA/BS and MA/MS degrees.

5625 Strand Blvd., #504, Naples, FL 34110 addam@aplusskills.com • (239) 254-9807 www.aplusskillstutoring.com

7. How long have you been tutoring? 8. What experience do you have with different learning styles? 9. How do you measure a child’s progress? 10. What if my child doesn’t progress? 11. How can I best support my child outside of the sessions? 12. How often will you communicate with me and/or my child’s teacher? NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2021

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Fall Festivals & Halloween Events 2021

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NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2021

Event details are subject to change. Please verify before attending.

Pumpkin Patch FARMER MIKE’S U PICK 26031 MORTON AVE., BONITA SPRINGS 239-498-4576 • WWW.FARMERMIKESUPICK.COM Pumpkins, gourds, corn stalks, and hay bales for sale. U Pick pumpkins. Oct. 1-31, Wednesday-Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. HEAVENLY EVERGREENS 8200 IMMOKALEE RD., NAPLES 276-768-7676 • HTTP://HEAVENLYEVERGREENS.COM Pumpkins for sale and props for great family photos. $3 per person for admission to photo area with petting zoo (on weekends, 3-7 p.m.) Open first week of October through Oct. 31, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 12-7 p.m. Sundays. NORTH NAPLES CHURCH 6000 GOODLETTE RD. N., NAPLES 239-593-7600 • HTTP://NORTHNAPLESCHURCH.ORG Stop by to purchase pumpkins and take your favorite fall family photos. Oct. 16-31, Monday-Friday, 3-7 p.m., and Saturday-Sunday, 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. NEW LIFE CHURCH 3971 VIA DEL REY, BONITA SPRINGS 239-992-2952 • WWW.NLCBONITA.COM Pumpkin patch starts Wednesday, Oct. 6. Open 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday. 31 PRODUCE 18672 STATE ROAD 31, ALVA 239-313-8213 • WWW.31PRODUCE.COM Pumpkins, vendors, petting zoo, free tractor rides (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.), and more. Free admission and parking. Oct. 9-10, 16-17, and 23-24, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Trunk or Treat AVOW-LOWEEN TRUNK OR TREAT 1095 WHIPPOORWILL LANE, NAPLES 239-261-4404 • WWW.AVOWCARES.ORG Kids will pick up an individually packaged bag of candy after parading past Halloween-decorated trunks. Family friendly costumes encouraged. Please bring your own bag or bucket. Masks required. Friday, Oct. 22, 6-8 p.m.

NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2021

DRIVE-THRU/WALK-THRU TRUNK OR TREAT THE FLORIDA SPORTS PARK 8520 RATTLESNAKE HAMMOCK RD., NAPLES WWW.SWAMPBUGGY.COM Drive-thru, 6-7 p.m.; walk-thru, 7-8:30 p.m. Afterward, stay and enjoy music, photo booth, local food trucks. Saturday, neafamily.com 19 Oct. 30.

TRICK OR TREAT FLEAMASTERS FLEA MARKET 4135 DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. BLVD., FORT MYERS 239-334-7001 • HTTPS://FLEAMALL.COM Show off your costume and get free candy. Sunday, Oct. 31, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. TRUNK OR TREAT IMMOKALEE COMMUNITY PARK 321 N. FIRST ST., IMMOKALEE 239-252-4449 • WWW.COLLIERPARKS.COM Music, face painting, bounce houses, food, costume contest, and tons of spooky fun. Friday, Oct. 29, 6-8 p.m. TRUNK OR TREAT KORESHAN STATE PARK 3800 CORKSCREW RD., ESTERO 239-992-0311 WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/KORESHANSTATEPARK Treats, games, street food, arts & crafts, and more. Park entrance fee. Saturday, Oct. 30, 12-5 p.m. TRUNK OR TREAT & MOVIE NIGHT ESTERO PARK 9200 CORKSCREW PALMS BLVD., ESTERO 239-533-1470 • WWW.LEEGOV.COM/PARKS Trunk or treat from 5-7 p.m., followed by a Movie in the Park, featuring SCOOB! (rated PG). Awards for best decorated trunks/vehicles. Free. Saturday, Oct. 30, 5-9 p.m. TRUNK OR TREAT & MOVIE NIGHT FLEISCHMANN PARK 1600 FLEISCHMANN BLVD., NAPLES 239-213-3020 • WWW.NAPLESGOV.COM/PARKSREC Collect candy from families and local businesses and organizations. Saturday, Oct. 30, 5:30-7 p.m. Free. Followed by a family movie at 7:30 p.m. $2 per person. 20

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NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2021

Fall Festivals CAPE CORAL OKTOBERFEST GERMAN AMERICAN SOCIAL CLUB 2101 SW PINE ISLAND RD., CAPE CORAL 239-283-1400 WWW.CAPECORALOKTOBERFEST.COM German food, beer, live music, dancing, and more. Free parking. $6 in advance, $8 at the door; children under 12, free. Oct. 22-24 and 29-31. Check website for times. FALL FESTIVAL NEW LIFE CHURCH 3971 VIA DEL REY, BONITA SPRINGS 239-992-2952 • WWW.NLCBONITA.COM Pumpkin patch, hayride, petting zoo, food, games, and more. Saturday, Oct. 23, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. FALL FESTIVAL NORTH FORT MYERS COMMUNITY PARK 2000 N. RECREATION PARK WAY, NORTH FORT MYERS 239-533-7200 WWW.LEEPARKS.ORG Free family event for all ages. Free candy bag for first 100 participants. DJ, photo booth, candy, games, prizes, and costume contest. Friday, Oct. 22, 6-9 p.m.

Currently Enrolling – Register Today!! Providing a loving environment for children while offering parents and caregivers a needed break.

One- and Two-Day Options Available Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Ages 2-4 years by Aug. 1

6926 Trail Blvd., Naples, FL

239.597.3464

For more information, email momsmorningout@covenantnaples.com.

FALL FESTIVAL AND CORN MAZES FARMER MIKE’S U PICK 26031 MORTON AVE., BONITA SPRINGS 239-498-4576 WWW.FARMERMIKESUPICK.COM Bounce houses, corn box, crafts, pumpkins for sale and U Pick pumpkins, activities, and food available for purchase. Family-friendly corn maze, haunted corn maze, and Zombie paintball combo. Tickets must be purchased online in advance. Festival runs Friday-Sunday every weekend in October. Haunted maze starts Oct. 10. Check website for hours. FALL FESTIVAL AND PUMPKIN PATCH SPRINGTIME FARMS ADVENTURE PARK 10761 AQUA VISTA LANE, NORTH FORT MYERS 239-309-0630 WWW.ESCAPEADVENTUREPARK.COM Pumpkin patch, maze, hayrides, petting farm, inflatables, and more. Oct. 1-31, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. FALL FESTIVAL AT SOUTHERN FRESH FARM 8500 PENZANCE BLVD., FORT MYERS 239-768-0309 WWW.SOUTHERNFRESH.FARM Pumpkins, hayrides, barnyard animals, food trucks, and vendors. Every Saturday and Sunday in October from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2021

Th e

G a rd e n School of Naples

Mon tessor i E a r l y E duc a t ion

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

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LAKES PARK FALL FESTIVAL LAKES REGIONAL PARK 7330 GLADIOLUS DR., FORT MYERS 239-332-2453 • HTTPS://LAKESPARK.ORG Pumpkin patch, bounce houses, hayrides, Halloween Express train, concessions, and Scarecrows in the Park competition and display. Oct 15-31 during park hours.

Let The Dancing Begin!

Tap, Jazz, Ballet, Acrobatics, Lyrical, Leap & Turn, Hip Hop and Adult Classes! Team@hftdance.com • Htfdance.com

PIONEER PUMPKIN PALOOZA IMMOKALEE PIONEER MUSEUM AT ROBERTS RANCH 1215 ROBERTS AVE. W., IMMOKALEE 239-252-2611 • HTTPS://COLLIERMUSEUMS.COM Scavenger hunt, maze, Halloween movies, hayride, and free pumpkins. Oct. 22-23, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. STONE CRAB FESTIVAL TIN CITY, 1200 5TH AVE. S., NAPLES WWW.STONECRABFESTIVAL.COM Live music, delicious stone crab, free admission. Friday, Oct. 29 through Sunday, Oct. 31.

Halloween Events CANDY HAUNTED HOUSE CREATIONS VINEYARDS COMMUNITY PARK 6231 ARBOR RD., NAPLES 239-252-4105 • WWW.COLLIERPARKS.COM Use an assortment of candy, frosting, and cookies to design a haunted candy house. Participants must wear masks. Houses may be picked up to be decorated at home. Ages 4-11. $10. Friday, Oct. 22, 5-6:30 p.m.

NACS

FAMILY HALLOWEEN MONSTER BASH GOLDEN GATE COMMUNITY CENTER 4701 GOLDEN GATE PKWY., NAPLES 239-252-4180 • WWW.COLLIERPARKS.COM A fun night of dancing, music, games, and treats! All guests must be in family-friendly costumes to attend. All ages. Friday, Oct. 16, 6-8 p.m.

Naples Adventist Christian School

We are a K-8th grade school centrally located in Naples. We are proud to have a committed staff teaching a nationally certified and accredited curriculum in a Christ-filled environment. We accept Step Up For Students and Florida Empowerment scholarships. The NACS family exists to show children Jesus, teach them to think, and empower them to serve. All students are welcome!

Contact us to schedule a visit, or explore online. 2629 S. Horseshoe Drive, Naples, FL 34104 239-261-NACS (6227) • nacs@flcoe.org www.NaplesACS.org

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NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2021

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL VANDERBILT BEACH LIBRARY 788 VANDERBILT BEACH RD., NAPLES 239-252-7160 WWW.COLLIERLIBRARY.ORG Put on your Halloween costume (optional) and join our Halloween festival. Make some crafts and play fun games. Don’t forget: It’s trick or treat! Ages 3 years and older. Registration not required. Saturday, Oct. 23, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. HALLOWEEN FUN: MASK MAKING FOR KIDS MARCO ISLAND HISTORICAL MUSEUM 180 S HEATHWOOD DR., MARCO ISLAND 239-252-1440 • WWW.COLLIERMUSEUMS.COM Learn about how the Calusa used masks and how we use them today. Then create your own mask. Ages 5-12. Free. Saturday, Oct. 30, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. HALLOWEEN HAPPENINGS HEADQUARTERS LIBRARY 2385 ORANGE BLOSSOM DR., NAPLES 239-252-7370 WWW.COLLIERLIBRARY.ORG Wear a costume, make crafts, and get a treat. Ages 18 months-5 years. Registration required. Saturday, Oct. 30, 10-11 a.m.

New Minature Horse Program at lifelong joy of Riding learning,Center NaplesATherapeutic

An education for life.

$100,000 grant from the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation is funding a new miniature horse therapy program at Naples Therapeutic Riding CenterINFANT (NTRC), a nonprofit organization providing therapeutic horseback riding and other equine-facilitated TODDLER services to children and adults with physical, social, and mental health needs. CHILDREN’S HOUSE Two miniature horses, Toulmin and Itty Bitty, were donated VPK as “minis”, are similar to their to NTRC. Miniature horses, known full-sized equine partners in terms of personality, intelligence, and ELEMENTARY disposition. The grant was used to improve the facilities to ensure the safety of the minis as well as fund the new position of equine Call to schedule a private tour resource manager to implement and facilitate the program. 239-597-2255 In addition to having the minis on site at the riding center, NTRC’s new mini traveling program will bring the therapeutic information found on our website benefits ofMore horses to worksitescan andbeorganizations through Southwest www.naplesmontessori.org Florida, including hospitals, schools, hospices, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers. 2655 Northbrooke Drive Naples, Florida 34119 Visit www.naplestherapeuticridingcenter.org. License #C20CO0132 DailyRamsey hours with fromminiature 7:30 A.M. toToulmin. 5:30 P.M. Left: Camryn horse

Happy kids. Sparkly smiles.

Dr. Sandor. Naples’ Favorite Pediatric Dentist

Naples Pediatric Dentistry

239.592.0800

Specialty care for infants drmarilynsandor.com Naples Pediatric Dentistry Care for toSpecialty adolescents 239.592.0800 Infants to Adolescents Sedation IVIVNitrous sedation www.drmarilynsandor.com Oxide Nitrous Oxide

Marilyn Sandor, DDS, MS was instrumental in helping develop the Zooby product line.

10 neafamily.com • October 2021 NEAPOLITANfamily

NEAPOLITANfamilyneafamily.com • January 2021 23

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

Three Locations to Serve You. BONITA SPRINGS

9510 Bonita Beach Rd. Ste. 101

239.333.2990

CAPE CORAL

1508 S.E. 12th Terrace

239.322.5222

PORT CHARLOTTE

3872 Tamiami Trail, Unit D&E

HALLOWEEN HOWL EAST NAPLES COMMUNITY PARK 3500 THOMASSON DR., NAPLES 239-252-4414 WWW.COLLIERPARKS.COM A fun-filled night of tricks and treats. A haunted house, games, activities, and inflatable fun awaits. Ages 4-10. Friday, Oct. 16, 6-8 p.m.

941.391.8090

HALLOWEEN PARTY MAX HASSE JR. COMMUNITY PARK 3390 GOLDEN GATE BLVD. W, NAPLES 239-252-4200 WWW.COLLIERPARKS.COM This spooktacular event is to provide some holiday fun for children, as well as give their parents a night out. Music, cookie decorating, and a costume contest. Slice of pizza and drink included. Ages 5-11. Friday, Oct. 29, 6:308:30 p.m.

Most Insurances Accepted

The Most Awesome Family Guidebook on the Planet!

HALLOWEEN PARTY IN THE PARK WA-KE-HATCHEE COMMUNITY PARK 16760 BASS RD., FORT MYERS 239-432-2154 WWW.LEEGOV.COM/PARKS A fun-filled night of spooktacular fun. Hayrides, costume contest, food trucks, and an outdoor viewing of the film Hocus Pocus. Please bring chairs and blankets. Saturday, Oct. 16, 5-9 p.m. HALLOWEEN SPECTACULAR DONNA FIALA EAGLE LAKES AQUATICS FACILITY 11565 TAMIAMI TR. E., NAPLES 239-252-3527 WWW.COLLIERPARKS.COM Enjoy a costume contest, candy, games, pumpkin carving, and more. $10 per family. Friday Oct. 22, 6:30-9:30 p.m. HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR FIFTH AVENUE SOUTH, NAPLES 239-692-8436 WWW.FIFTHAVENUESOUTH.COM Fun events for families, including live music, street dancing, costume contest, games, and more. Sunday, Oct. 31, 12-3 p.m.

The all-new Second Edition is the perfect guide for visitors, local families, classrooms, homeschool groups and libraries. Twice as many colorful photos and illustrations...more super-fun attractions and experiences...more freaky factoids and inside tips. Plus, all the websites and phone numbers you need. It’s absolutely, positively not just for kids! Available in the best bookstores, gift shops, and on amazon.com. 24

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HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR MARCO ISLAND FRANK E. MACKLE PARK 1361 ANDALUSIA TERRACE, MARCO ISLAND 239-642-0575 WWW.CITYOFMARCOISLAND.COM Scavenger hunt, Halloween music, costume contest, activities. Saturday, Oct. 30, 4-6 p.m. NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2021

HALLOWEEN-THEMED KIDS’ NIGHT OUT DONNA FIALA EAGLE LAKES COMMUNITY PARK 11565 TAMIAMI TR. E., NAPLES 239-252-3527 • WWW.COLLIERPARKS.COM Children are encouraged to arrive in costume and enjoy themed games and activities. $10 per child. Ages 5-11. Friday, Oct. 15, 6-8:30 p.m.

WWW.TEMPLESHALOMPRESCHOOLNAPLES.ORG

Baby & Me

HALLOWEEN TREAT BAG IMMOKALEE LIBRARY 417 N. FIRST ST., IMMOKALEE 239-252-7073 • WWW.COLLIERLIBRARY.ORG Pick up a Halloween treat bag all day, while supplies last. Registration is not required. Saturday, Oct. 30, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. HOCUS POCUS HULLABALOO MERCATO SHOPS, NAPLES 239-254-1080 • WWW.MERCATOSHOPS.COM DJ, face painting, stilt walker, candy, Hocus Pocus costume contest, and more. Stick around for a free screening of Hocus Pocus at 7:15pm. Tuesday, Oct. 19, 5-9 p.m. MONSTER MASH COMEDY NIGHT THE NAPLES PLAYERS 701 5TH AVE. S., NAPLES 239-263-7990 • HTTPS://NAPLESPLAYERS.ORG Don’t miss this Halloween-themed improv family-friendly comedy show. Costumes are encouraged, and prizes will be awarded. Saturday, Oct. 30, 8 p.m.

Mondays and Fridays 9:00am-11:00am 0-2 Year Olds

Sensory Activities - Baby Sign Language Music - Storytime - Yoga - Tummy Time - Bonding For more information or to schedule a tour: 239-455-3227 preschool@naplestemple.org

Mondays ONLY: $130/month Fridays ONLY: $130/month Mondays and Fridays: $200/month

PUMPKIN PAINTING FUN DAY VETERANS COMMUNITY PARK 1895 VETERANS PARK DR., NAPLES 239-252-4682 • WWW.COLLIERPARKS.COM Pumpkin painting, games, and more. Pack a lunch, snacks, and water bottle. Grade K-5. $20. Monday, Oct. 18, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. SPOOKY FUN HALLOWEEN SCIENCE CRUISE PURE FLORIDA, 11200 5TH AVE. S., NAPLES 239-263-4949 • WWW.PUREFL.COM Hands-on Halloween-themed science experiments and demonstrations. Kids are invited to wear costumes, and will receive bag of Halloween candy and an experiment to take home. After the show, families will enjoy a 90-minute cruise. Saturday, Oct. 23, 9-11:30 a.m. SPOOKY MOVIES @ HQ HEADQUARTERS LIBRARY 2385 ORANGE BLOSSOM DR., NAPLES 239-252-7356 • WWW.COLLIERLIBRARY.ORG Young Frankenstein, rated PG, Friday, Oct. 1, 2-4 p.m. Hocus Pocus, rated PG, Wednesday, Oct. 13, 3-5 p.m. The Addams Family, rated PG-13, Friday, Oct. 29, 2-4 p.m. NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2021

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

www.onceuponachildnaples.com neafamily.com

The Cutest Halloween Ever! iPlay, iLearn Construction Worker iPlay, iLearn This construction worker role play costume set includes a hammer, saw, pliers, screwdriver, nylon vest, hat, and tool belt. $19.99 www.iplayilearntoys.com

T he Very Hungry Caterpillar Pottery Barn Kids This Halloween, dress up the baby as the precious Very Hungry Caterpillar. This costume is comfy, cozy and utterly adorable, made of soft corduroy and velboa with plump padding and embroidered details. The one-piece design includes costume with attached hood. Sizes 0-6M, 6-12M, 12-24M. $69 www.potterybarnkids.com

SEVERAL ATTORNEYS ARE:

2019

MARITAL & FAMILY LAW 2019

BUSINESS LITIGATION

2018

Litigation and triaL Practice, emPLoyment and Business Law, disPute resoLution, FamiLy and maritaL Law

The MidWestOne Bank Building 4099 Tamiami Trail N., Suite 201, Naples, Florida 34103

(239) 298-5200 ////// www.CHTLegal.com 26

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Dale W.

Klaus

Reuben A.

Doupé

Sarah Martin

Oquendo

I highly recommend Dale Klaus. Dale guided me through a challenging, unexpected divorce. I was very satisfied with the level of service, consideration and final agreement Dale negotiated ... that included a very well-written parenting plan!” –Satisfied Client

NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2021

Need some new ideas for Halloween this year? Check out these adorable costumes for your little ones.

iPlay, iLearn Rainbow Unicorn Party Dress iPlay, iLearn Fancy unicorn rainbow dress with an eye-catching unicorn headband. Breathable fabric, non-itchy, skin-friendly, soft, and stretchy. $19.98 www.iplayilearntoys.com

iPlay, iLearn Firefighter iPlay, iLearn This firefighter costume set includes with bright red jacket, helmet, fire extinguisher, walkie-talkie with sound effects, plastic ax, water gun, and badge. $23.99 www.iplayilearntoys.com

The Moorings Presbyterian Preschool A vibrant learning community with a highly qualified staff

Now accepting applications for enrollment, ages 2-5!

Come Grow With Us!

VPK Provider No Wrap-Around Fees Creative Arts Letter People Handwriting without Tears

791 Harbour Drive, Naples, FL 34103 NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2021

Hands-On Learning Small Class Size Chapel Discovery & Exploration S.T.E.A.M.

www.mooringspreschool.org

(239) 649-1811 neafamily.com

TRAVEL

By Karen T. Bartlett

Destination: Space N

ot since the 1970s has the space race been as sizzling hot as it is right this minute. As I write this at 11:02 a.m. on Sept. 15, it’s T-09:00:00 and counting until blastoff of the SpaceX Inspiration4 rocket with four civilian astronauts on board. Cape Canaveral, home of NASA and Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, is the epicenter of 21st century space action. Yet, so many of us living a short drive away have never witnessed the spectacle of a launch so close up that the earth tremors can rattle our bones. Our kids haven’t climbed up a wormhole, slid through an asteroid field, crawled through the tunnels of the International Space Station, or repaired a satellite with robotic arms. And that’s a crying shame. With the Artemis program set to land humans on Mars by 2026 and a futuristic new Mars Rover on the drawing board, and with Elon Musk, Richard Branson, and Jeff Bezos embroiled in their own personal star wars, I highly recommend that your family do as we finally did: head up to Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex at your first opportunity. The adrenaline starts for me right in the parking lot, where the skyline is a cityscape of rocket ships. Then there’s the 26-foot countdown clock, the giant NASA globe, and a stunning fountain wall from which the voice of President John F. Kennedy is proclaiming, “We choose to go to the moon … and do these other things. Not because they are easy, but because they are hard.” I’m totally psyched. My first stop is the brand new multistory Planet Play, where kids 2 to 12 are cavorting through a neon-infused galaxy, racing simulated Mars Rovers, crawling through a black hole portal, making artful space shuttles, walking on the rings of Saturn, hopping across constellations in the Milky Way, and playing interactive space games. One enthusiastic little guest shows up in a full helmeted spacesuit. Of course, it could be a miniature space alien in disguise. Next: Journey to Mars Explorers Wanted, an immersion into Deep Space exploration of Mars, asteroids, and the moon. There are replicas of all the rovers, plus simulators and exciting explorer games.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2021

It’s here that I meet the Space Center’s friendly ambassador, Space Person, doing socially distant photo ops. Kids apparently love the Shuttle Launch Experience replicating the motion and sound sensations of a real blastoff. Nope, not for me, thanks. Along with the wow factor, it’s clear that one mission of Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and its partner, NASA, is to inspire careers in space science from a young age. So many exhibits and shows are like a STEM program on rocket fuel. That child waving at Space Person today may someday continue the breakthrough work of the space program, not only as an astronaut or astrophysicist but also in the search for cancer cures, robotic surgery, solar energy monitoring, natural disaster response, food security, and protection of our planet. Space Shuttle Atlantis Even the jaw-dropping full-size replica of the twin solid rocket boosters with an external tank roughly the size of an eight-story building can’t compare with the real life orbiter spacecraft we’re about to see inside. The massive travel-scarred Space Shuttle Atlantis, designed to “launch like a rocket and land like a glider” provides another adrenaline moment. Enveloped in dramatic space-blue lighting and displayed at eye level, that would have been enough. But there also are scores of interactive astronaut games, displays, and activities including the super-fun ISS experience, plus a poignant gallery honoring the astronauts lost on the Columbia and Challenger missions. The Eagle has Landed A 3-mile bus ride takes us through NASA security on Merritt Island to the Apollo/Saturn V Center to ooh and aah over the colossal Saturn V: the largest rocket ever launched. The 353-foot rocket supported most of the Apollo moon missions. Suspended in space alongside it are emblems of each mission and its astronauts. Below it is the Apollo 14 command module, and there’s a life-size replica of the moonscape where Buzz Aldrin announced, “The Eagle has landed” and Neil Armstrong took “one giant leap for mankind.” Besides Apollo memorabilia (like boots still covered in moon dust) there are riveting multimedia shows on the famous Apollo 11 and Apollo 8 missions. A touristy photo booth in the hangar offers semi-authentic photos of us floating in zero gravity inside the International Space Station. Yes, of course we bought the package. And yes, we ended our day at the Milky Way Ice Cream Shop. The complex is accessible compliant and offers autism sensitive services. Several extra packages are available, like personalized astronaut training and VIP launch passes. Visit www.KennedySpaceCenter.com. Photos, facing page: Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex’s friendly ambassador Space Person roams throughout the center giving high fives and posing for selfies. Due to COVID-19 protocols, Space Person currently makes specially scheduled socially distant appearances. Right, top: A child crawls through the 3/8 size replica of part of the International Space Station. Right, bottom: Sophisticated simulators give visitors of all ages the thrill of navigating and landing a space shuttle. Photos by Karen T. Bartlett NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2021

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FLUTE LESSONS For beginners & advanced beginners

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NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2021

NEW!

HOW NAPLES ZOO DOES

FACETIME

Have you ever been face-to-face with the world’s tallest animal? Visit Naples Zoo today to hand feed a giraffe at the newly elevated giraffe feeding experience.

NAPLESZOO.ORG NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2021

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Neapolitan Family Magazine Presents the 2021-22

Cover Kids Contest

We are excited to announce our 2021-22 Cover Kids Contest!

The staff of Neapolitan Family will choose the finalists, who will appear on a cover between December 2021 and November 2022.

Scan the QR code below or visit https://neafamily.com to enter your adorable child in the contest. Children ages 1-17 who live in Collier or Lee counties are eligible.

Entries will open at 9 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 1 and close at midnight on Sunday, Oct. 17.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2021