Estate Planning for Blended Families

LEGALLY SPEAKING

Estate Planning for Blended Families

By Bruce Iden, Esquire

Yours, mine, and ours. Sadly, in America the average marriage lasts only seven years, with one out of two marriages ending in divorce. As over seventy-five percent of divorced individuals eventually choose to remarry, blended families now outnumber traditional nuclear families. And while this family dynamic has become the new normal, it’s a far cry from what was portrayed on the classic television series, “The Brady Bunch.”

If you are part of a blended family, you face some unique estate planning challenges. These include providing for your current spouse if he or she survives you, and making sure that when your spouse dies your children will be taken care of. Obviously, after the first spouse passes, the family dynamic can change dramatically; what the surviving spouse ends up doing with his or her assets can often be unpredictable. Let’s explore just a few possible estate planning options.

Your spouse. A simple, albeit not wise, approach would be to leave everything to your spouse. As your spouse adores your children, you have no doubt that he/she will take care of your children after you are gone, right? Keep in mind that an unintended consequence of this approach might be totally disinheriting your own children! Consider this: After you are gone if your spouse becomes incapacitated it is very likely that your spouse’s children will take over the financial affairs of the family. You don’t need a vivid imagination to see how that might turn into a disaster. What happens when your spouse dies? Or remarries? Without thoughtful planning, your assets may ultimately be inherited by your stepchildren, or even by the person who marries your spouse! Proper legal planning can avoid this potential pitfall.

Your children. Another solution is to leave assets to your spouse and your children. While this guarantees that your children will not be disinherited, this path may lead to unintended consequences. Leaving assets outright to your children opens up a wide range of concerns, including the possibility that they may squander their inheritance by spending or investing unwisely, or lose most or all in a nasty divorce, an untimely lawsuit, or through bankruptcy. Even if your children are adults, shouldn’t you still protect them from future creditors and predators?

Your ex-spouse. You probably don’t consider your ex, but your former spouse plays a role in your estate planning. Think about it. If you leave money to your minor children, it is likely that your ex-spouse will be appointed by the probate court to manage your children’s property. What happens if a child dies while single and childless? Who would inherit their assets? As the next-of-kin of your children, that individual can be your ex-wife or ex-husband.

Planning effectively for a blended family requires creativity, experience, and know-how. Consult with an estate planning professional to formulate a plan that is right for you and your family.

Life can change in an instant. What are you waiting for?

⊲ Bruce Iden earned his J.D. from George Washington University

National Law Center and his L.L.M in taxation from the University of

Miami School of Law. He has been practicing in the areas of estate planning, real estate and business law for over 30 years. For more information, or to schedule a consultation with Mr. Iden, contact Iden

Law Offices at 954-885-0085.

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Making the Grade –

Choosing the Best Private School for Your Child

When considering sending your child to a private school, it is vital to take into account various factors, especially if you have to pay a pretty penny to attend. In this day and age, it is evident that academics are getting more rigorous, standardized tests are increasingly difficult, and the pressure of college is no joke. Colleges today want a well-rounded, educated, unique students, so it is key to find a private school that will enable your child to embody these qualities. Find a School With Good Extracurriculars

The first factor to consider should be the size of the school. It will be harder for your child to stand out in a very large class. Most colleges compare students against their class, not other schools, so this factor is very important. It will be easier for your child to stand out in a small pond than in a large sea of students. Additionally, you should ensure that there are ample extracurriculars at your selected private school that appeal to your child. Having good extracurriculars and sports teams should be a deciding factor when selecting a private school. Colleges often look to recruit athletes from well-known private schools. A wide variety of extracurriculars gives your child the option to be involved in an organization that actually interest them. Colleges want ambitious students, so leadership positions in clubs and organizations are crucial to your child’s success. Prioritizes Academics & Education

Another factor to consider would be the passing rates of Advanced Placement (AP) and Cambridge’s Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) exams. High passing rates indicate that the educators at the school know how to set their students up for success. Passing an exam often allows the student to receive college credit, so they won’t have to retake that course in college. Not only do high passing rates increase the likelihood of your child receiving college credit, but it implies that your child is more likely to do better in the course throughout the year as well.

Academics That Are Challenging, High Passing Rates on AP Exams

Apart from just the passing rate itself, parents should also pay attention to score distributions. The highest possible AP score is a 5, and the lowest passing score is a 3. A school may have a high passing rate, but it is important to know the proportion of students receiving 4’s and 5’s, not just 3’s. Different scores may earn a student different credits at certain colleges.

Although it is important for passing rates to be high, the environment of the school will also contribute to your child’s success. School should be a place where students should feel comfortable, safe, and welcomed. It is now more important than ever that your child feels safe at school, but as a parent, you should be certain that you feel comfortable just the same as you send your child off to that school every weekday. Guidance Counselors That Care About Your Child’s Future

Most importantly, students should feel comfortable reaching out to guidance counselors and advisors. Having supportive guidance counselors and understanding teachers can truly have a positive impact on your child’s high school experience. Counselors should be available to aid with schedules, college applications, college essays, and even personal issues. Good college advisors and counselors are imperative to making the college application process as seamless as possible. It is important to make sure that guidance counselors and college advisors are accessible to students at all times.

Overall, there are many factors to consider when selecting the right private school for your child. The importance of these factors may vary depending on your child’s interests and priorities. Although this information may seem overwhelming, it should be helpful in narrowing down which school is the best fit for your child. With such amazing options in the area, no matter where your child ends up, they will be receiving an amazing education.

With such amazing options in the area, no matter where your child ends up, they will be receiving an amazing education.

Making the Grade

Faith-Based Schools

All Saints Catholic School

Grades: PK-8

954-742-4842

www.allsaintscatholicschool.net 10900 W. Oakland Park Blvd, Sunrise All Saints Catholic School seeks to provide an atmosphere rich in the Catholic faith where each child is challenged to grow spiritually, academically, and emotionally in a safe and nurturing environment. ..................................................................................

Archbishop Edward McCarthy High School

Grades: 9-12

954-434-8820

www.mccarthyhigh.net 5451 S. Flamingo Road, SW Ranches Archbishop Edward A. McCarthy High School is a Roman Catholic co-educational school of the Archdiocese of Miami, following the tradition of Catholic youth formation and the motto of the school’s namesake, “Manere in Dilectione Christi” – “To abide in the love of Christ.” ..................................................................................

Bethany Christian School

Grades: PK-8

954-522-2554

www.bcsftl.org 615 SE 9th Street, Fort Lauderdale Bethany Christian School, an outreach of Rio Vista Community Church, offers an excellent academic program in an intimate setting near downtown Fort Lauderdale. They provide a nurturing environment that helps children reach their full potential in every area of life — academically, socially, physically, and spiritually. Bethany believes that small class sizes coupled with individualized attention ensure that students experience academic, emotional, and spiritual excellence.

Cardinal Gibbons High School

Grades: 9-12

954-491-2900

www.cghsfl.org 2900 NE 47th St., Fort Lauderdale Cardinal Gibbons High School is dedicated to providing students with a strong formation of Catholic values, academic excellence, lifelong learning and a commitment to service. Founded in 1961, Cardinal Gibbons has come a long way from its humble beginnings. Their 18-acre campus currently houses 10 academic buildings, an interactive Media and Technology Center, four state-of-the-art science labs and a chapel that seats 300. Since opening in 1961, Cardinal Gibbons has grown to become one of the most well-respected Catholic, college preparatory schools in South Florida. ..................................................................................

Chaminade Madonna College Preparatory

Grades: 9-12

954-989-5150

www.cmlions.org 500 E. Chaminade Dr, Hollywood Founded in the Marianist Tradition, Chaminade-Madonna College Preparatory is part of a network of Marianist schools. Their vision and philosophy reflect the educational principles of Blessed William Joseph Chaminade. The school enjoys a 99% acceptance rate for the approximately 500 students enrolled and believes in a well-rounded education with an emphasis on fine & performing arts, athletics, service learning, and its campus ministry, in addition to rigorous academic programs. ..................................................................................

Christi/ STEPSS Academy

Grades: K-12

954-749-6869

www.stepssacademy.com 3495 Hiatus Road, Sunrise Christi/STEPSS Academy’s mission is to provide a Christ-centered and individualized learning environment that encourages students to meet academic challenges with openness, enthusiasm, and a willingness to overcome obstacles with God’s help. Their focus is the whole child. The teachers and staff strive to cultivate independent thought, self-discipline, tolerance, and responsibility so each child can contribute to his or her community in meaningful and positive ways bringing glory to God.

Cooper City Christian Academy

Grades: K-12

954-680-0850

www.coopercitychritian.com 5201 S Flamingo Road, Cooper City Cooper City Christian Academy strives to provide a Christ-Centered environment of academic excellence, where faculty and staff work with families to develop students who will know and serve the Lord Jesus Christ with all their hearts, souls, minds, and strength. At CCCA students will discover their God-given gifts and will learn to lead others into the Kingdom of God with commitment, competence, compassion, and confidence. ..................................................................................

David Posnack Jewish Day School

Grades: K-12

954-583-6100

www.posnackschol.org 5810 S. Pine Island Road, Davie David Posnack Jewish Day School offers students a unique learning experience. Combining academic rigor in general and Judaic Studies with award-winning arts and sports programming, the Posnack School prepares students for lifelong achievement. 100% of students from their class or 2018 were accepted into 4-year colleges; over 75% of students participate in at least one sports team; and, they offer electives in truly unique subjects like Madarin, Human Genetics, Yoga and much more. ..................................................................................

Donna Klein Jewish Academy

Grades: K-12

561-852-3300

www.djka.net 9701 Donna Klein Blvd, Boca Raton To truly understand what makes Donna Klein Jewish Academy one of the premier Jewish Community Day Schools in the country, you must visit the campus and experience it for yourself. Feel the energy of a community joined in the love of knowledge, the joy of learning, and a deep passion for Judaism. The K-12 school boasts a state-ofthe-art facility and a 100% graduation rate with grads attending elite universities.

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Parkway Christian School

Grades: K-8

954-424-6425

www.pcs-fl.net 1200 S Flamingo Rd, Davie Parkway Christian School’s mission is to grow the entire child, spiritually, academically and emotionally. Parkway is accredited by the Florida Council of Independent Schools and all teachers on staff are certified. Parkway has high academic standards, an excellent character education program and is involved in the community. Although Parkway is smaller than other schools, it has the same benefits as larger area private schools with advanced technology, an on-site hot lunch program, championship athletic program and campus-wide security. ..................................................................................

Potential Christian Academy

Grades: PK-8

954-434-1550

www.ilovepca.com 12401 Stirling Road, Cooper City Potential Christian Academy has been a part of the South Florida community for over 30 years. They believe that the best place to start building on the foundation of Christ is at a very early age, so that children will be able to experience the full meaning, purpose, and joy that God has for their lives. PCA recognizes that it is during a child’s formative years that a strong academic foundation is built, a child’s beliefs are formed, interpersonal skills are developed. ..................................................................................

Saint Bernadette Catholic School

Grades: K-8

954-432-7022

www.saintbernadettefl.org 7450 Stirling Road, Hollywood Saint Bernadette Catholic School provides an environment where students are physically and emotionally safe from harm, bullying, and discrimination because tolerance, acceptance, and respect are the characteristics of relationships promoted by all members of this Christ-centered Catholic Community. The school encourages parents, as the primary educators of their children, to help their child’s continuous growth and development, by educating the whole child through Church and School involvement. St. Bernadette uses a variety of teaching styles, instructional techniques, and concepts to ensure that all students have the potential for a successful future.

Saint David Catholic School

Grades: PK-8

954-472-7086

www.saintdavidschool.org 3900 S University Drive, Davie The mission of Saint David Catholic School is to provide a foundation for nurturing of the Catholic faith, traditions, and academic excellence. Catholic education strives to educate the whole child: spiritually, emotionally, socially, intellectually, artistically, and physically. Our curricula and co-curricular activities are designed to instill in each student a reverence for God and all His creation and to affirm the rich diversity of our students, families, teachers while building positive community involvement. ..................................................................................

Saint Gregory the Great Catholic School

Grades: PK-8 954-473-8169 www.saintgreg.org/school 200 N University Drive, Plantation St. Gregory School, committed to the values of the Catholic Church, is an intellectually challenging, harmonious community in Broward County. Serving early childhood through 8th grade, students are encouraged to demonstrate honorable values, embrace meaningful service and reflect learned knowledge. The school cultivates an environment where students genuinely love to learn and seamlessly advance on a foundation built for their unique successes throughout life. ..................................................................................

Saint Thomas Aquinas High School

Grades: 9-12

954-581-0700

www.aquinas-sta.org 2801 SW 12th Street, Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas High School, a Roman Catholic, co-educational, college preparatory school has acquired national recognition for academic and athletic excellence. Founded in 1936, STA has provided quality Catholic secondary education to Fort Lauderdale and the South Florida community for 83 years. Committed to the philosophy of Saint Thomas Aquinas, STA defines learning as the simultaneous and harmonious development of all facets of the human personality and strives to cultivate the achievements of each student.

Scheck Hillel Community School

Grades: PK-12

305-931-2831

www.ehillel.org 19000 NE 25th Ave., North Miami Beach From Early Childhood through Grade 12, Scheck Hillel Community School educates and inspires students to become exemplary global citizens with enduring Jewish identity and values through an individualized college preparatory curriculum highlighted by STEM and design, Capstone, college dual enrollment, arts, athletics and service-learning. Their 14 acres include a 115,000-sq.-ft athletic complex with additional academic expansion plans. Scheck Hillel is one of the world’s largest Jewish community day schools and a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. ..................................................................................

Sheridan Hills Christian School

Grades: PK-12

954-966-7995

www.shcsharks.com 3751 Sheridan Street, Hollywood Sheridan Hills Christian School is a Christ-centered biblically-based college preparatory school that disciples students, supports parents and equips teachers to be influencers in a classical tradition of academic excellence founded on faith in Jesus Christ. The school has a total enrollment of 450 with a 13:1 student to faculty ratio. ..................................................................................

Westminster Academy

Grades: PK-12

954-771-4600

www.wa.edu 5601 N Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale Westminster Academy has been decidedly mission-driven, firmly committed to Christian scholarship, and keenly focused on kingdom impact for the glory of God. With these combined core convictions as a cornerstone, Westminster Academy serves Christian families in South Florida by educating and equipping their children to be exceptional thinkers, lifelong learners, and influential leaders with a Biblical and scholarly perspective for college and beyond.

Non-Faith-Based Schools

Allison Academy

Grades: 6-12

305-940-3922

www.allisonacademy.com 1881 NE 164th Street, North Miami Beach Allison Academy is a private middle and high school that provides quality educational programs with an emphasis on meeting individual needs through small class sized and a nurturing environment where each student’s self-esteem is valued and developed. Allison Academy accepts the responsibility of working in partnership with each student’s parents to create students who are endowed with life-long love of learning, healthy self-image, and positive attitude that will enable each student to grow academically, emotionally, socially, and intellectually. ..................................................................................

American Heritage School

Grades: PK-12

954-472-0022

www.ahschool.com 12200 W. Broward Blvd., Plantation American Heritage School is a nationally recognized college preparatory school that provides a rigorous and well-rounded education with superior programs in academics, the arts, and athletics for students in grades PK3 through 12. Its Lower School offers advanced courses, including the Stanford University math program for accelerated math students in grades 4 through 6; 15 elective classes are also integrated into all students’ daily schedules. Its Upper School offers 135 honors courses, 28 Advanced Placement (AP) courses, a Pre-Professional Program with pre-med, pre-law, pre-engineering, biomedical engineering, computer science, and business, as well as a Science Research Institute with cutting-edge research and findings. More than 60 student-run clubs and honor societies are available at all grade levels. ..................................................................................

AEF Schools

Grades: K-12

954-521-8222

www.aefschools.com 6311 Orange Drive, Davie (Main) 4650 SW 61st Ave., Davie (High School) 5725 Orange Drive, Davie (Middle School) AEF provides and promotes a unique environment that fosters the growth of the individual. Their program encourages the development of the whole student by focusing on social skills, cognitive skills, and academics. Their staff work to instill knowledge and values which help students both inside and outside the classroom environment. ..................................................................................

Apple Tree Montessori School

Grades: PK-8

954-252-9250

www.appletreemont.com 6301 SW 160th Ave., SW Ranches Apple Tree Montessori School embraces the Montessori method for students from pre-K through 8th grade. The individuality of each child in respect to their needs and talents is the school’s focus. Students are given the opportunity to realize their full academic potential. The child manages time effectively while being responsible for completing each lesson. ..................................................................................

Beacon Hill School

Grades: PK-8

954-963-2600

www.beaconhillschool.com 7600 Davie Road Extension, Hollywood Beacon Hill School is an independent, coeducational school, founded by Irving and Cherie Liss in 1959. It continues to be run by the Liss family under the leadership of Executive Director Andrew Liss. Beacon Hill School is dedicated to the fundamental philosophy, “The future belongs to those who prepare.” To achieve this goal, Beacon Hill fosters the holistic development of each child. Beacon Hill operates on an extended school year, consisting of 212 teaching days compared to a typical 180-day schedule. ..................................................................................

Center Academy

954-575-1231

www.conservatoryprep.org 4700 Riverside Dr., Coral Springs Center Academy is a college prepatory school that focuses on children with learning disabilities, ADHD, anxiety and ASD. the school was founded by Dr. Mack Hicks who saw the need for a specialized, fullday school for students who were falling through the cracks in traditional schools. As Center Academy has expanded locations throughout Florida, it has stayed true to is mission and kept its focus on addressing the unique needs of each student. The faculty at the school focus on a student’s self-esteem & confidence as much as they focus on academics.

Cambridge International Academy

Grades: K-8

754-221-0183

www.cabridgeia.org 1800 N Douglas Road, Pembroke Pines Cambridge International Academy seeks to provide a distinct education in the classical tradition which equips students to know, love, and practice that which is true, good, and beautiful and thus prepares them to live purposefully and intelligently. The school strives to create a program that engages every single student to help them accomplish challenges and exceed their goals in a caring and supportive environment. They are proud to highly engaged with the Pembroke Pines community. ..................................................................................

Conservatory Prep Schools

954-680-5808

www.conservatoryprep.org 5850 S. Pine Island Road, Davie The purpose of Conservatory Prep is to spark critical thinking, a passion for knowledge, and independent learning through a combined method of arts-integration and problem-based learning. The methodology was designed to meet the needs of twice-exceptional students. Many of these individuals are designated as gifted with minor learning differences and most had not performed to their potential in previous schools. These students learn directly opposite to the way traditional lesson plans are structured. Instead of learning facts and a sequence of information leading towards the greater concept, these students have strong conceptual skills and abstract reasoning and very poor concrete, sequential skills, therefore they are most successful with a program starting with the concepts and working backwards to learn the facts and order. ..................................................................................

Divine Academy

Grades: K-12

954-499-4638

www.divineacademy.com 3347 N University Drive, Hollywood Divine Academy is a private school located in Hollywood, FL for students with special needs. The central purpose and role of Divine Academy is to provide students with autism and special needs the means and knowledge for independent living and to enter the workforce through educational, vocational, and life skills instruction in a safe, nurturing, and structured environment.

Guidepost Montessori at Hollywood Beach

Grades: PK-8

954-923-7100

www.guidepostmontessori.com 2230 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood Guidepost Montessori uses the Montessori method of education. Children learn joyfully, through working with carefully sequenced, hands-on materials. Your child’s enthusiastic exploration naturally leads to a solid foundation and advanced academics. Guidepost families tend to be friendly and welcoming folks, eager to make connections and form strong bonds. Because the Montessori approach works best when manifested in a community of like minds, regular campus events, and get-togethers are the norm (without COVID!). ..................................................................................

North Broward Preparatory School

Grades: PK-12

954-247-0179

www.nbps.org 7600 Lyons Road, Coconut Creek North Broward Preparatory School offers a contemporary independent school education. It is a community of learners and thinkers, leaders and innovators, successfully preparing for a global world. The school offers each child a personalized approach to learning through their curriculum, which includes International Baccalaureate Diploma Program, Advanced Placement, Fine Arts, and STEAM. The 80-acre campus features a brand new state-of-the-art Global Wellness Center, with innovative classroom spaces, multiple athletic venues, learning gardens, and cutting-edge Learning Commons. ..................................................................................

NOVA University School

Grades: PK-12

954-262-4506

www.uschool.nova.edu 3375 SW 75th Ave., Fort Lauderdale At NSU University School, the classroom is their cornerstone, but they recognize that true development takes a combination of academics, arts, athletics, & community service. By allowing students to focus on their individual talents & strengths, they are able to bring out the best in them today - and well into the future. The school is unique among area schools in that they prepare students for college by helping them learn at one. The school combines a progressive academic program with vibrant ars, athletics & a commitment to character.

Pine Crest School

Grades: PK-12

954-492-4100

www.pinecrest.edu 1501 NE 62nd Street, Fort Lauderdale For more than 80 years, Pine Crest School has been at the forefront of providing an educational experience rooted in academic rigor and excellence and complemented by outstanding athletics and arts. A Pine Crest graduate will possess leadership skills and perseverance. He or she will be an effective and articulate communicator with the ability to take calculated risks, and think independently, globally, and collaboratively to create opportunities and innovative solutions to real-life, complex challenges with integrity and character. ..................................................................................

The Sagemont School

Grades: PK-12

954-389-9193

www.sagemont.com 1570 Sagemont Way, Weston The Sagemont School provides students with a rigorous curriculum that prepares them for college and beyond. The Sagemont School is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Association of Independent Schools of South Florida. The school operates two campuses. The Lower School provides students in preschool through 5th grade with a strong educational foundation combined with art, music, Spanish, swimming, physical education, and media and technology. From middle school through high school graduation, Sagemont’s Upper School students choose from a variety of regular, honors and AP course work conducted in a technology-rich environment. ..................................................................................

Summit-Questa Montessori School

Grades: PK-8

954-584-3466

www.summitquesta.com 5451 Davie Road, Davie Summit-Questa Montessori School is a community of educators, children, parents and extended family committed to the Montessori philosophy. Dr. Maria Montessori, whose life work centered on the care and education of children, so eloquently said, “Within the child lies the fate of the future.” Summit-Questa assists in developing all aspects of the individual, including the child’s self-creation of who they become. We are located on a beautiful 10-acre campus, with native habitats, edible schoolyard vegetable gardens, butterfly gardens, a wetland preserve, and a brand new gymnasium and pool. ..................................................................................

Westlake Preparatory School and Academy

Grades: K-12

954-473-0770

www.westlakeschool.com 8950 Stirling Road, Cooper City Westlake Preparatory School and Academy is one of the premier K-12 private schools in South Florida. Their customized curriculum allows the school to offer three unique academic pathways to ensure a student’s success. Their college-prep program is designed for students working towards a standard High School Diploma; Their Summit Program is designed for students needing accommodations; and, there Academy Program offers educational solutions for students working toward a Certificate of Completion or a Special Certificate of Completion. At Westlake, quality of instruction is their top priority. ..................................................................................

Xceed Preparatory Academy

Grades: 6-12

954-866-0248

www.xceedprep.org 3301 N University Drive, #110, Coral Springs 2900 Glades Cir, #1600, Weston Simply stated, Xceed is school reimagined. If the traditional school model doesn’t quite fit your family, it doesn’t have to be that way. Xceed Preparatory Academy uses personalized learning approaches for students who want the flexibility to pursue their own interests and talents in a supportive, innovative environment. The school is a Cognia accredited (formerly known as AdvancED) network of private schools serving grades 6-12. The Xceed model provides personalization, an online curriculum, flexible schedules, and attentive in-person academic staff preparing students for college and beyond. Each day is designed to meet the learning needs and interests of each student in a safe and supportive learning environment.

A Children’s Carousel

1051 Shotgun Rd, Weston 954-424-1898

www.achildrenscarousel.com A Children’s Carousel has been serving Weston families for over 20 years. With programs for children from 18 months through five years, the preschool provides a developmentally appropriate, theme-based program focused on each child’s individual learning style. This school year, it is introducing an Early Learning STEM Program as an enhancement to its pre-K curriculum. The student-centered, confidence-building program encourages critical thinking skills. ..................................................................................

B’nai Aviv Early Childhood Education Center

1410 Indian Trace, Weston 954-384-6605

www.bnaiavivecec.org At B’nai Aviv Early Childhood Education Center, developing a love of learning and helping children reach their full potential is of utmost importance. Its inquiry based curriculum allows children, from fourmonths through pre-kindergarten, to learn through exploration and hands-on playful experiences. ..................................................................................

Creative Child Learning Center

150 Weston Rd, Sunrise, www.creativechildlearningcenter.com 954-389-8245

Creative Child Learning Center® is committed to providing children with a loving, nurturing, environment allowing for social and emotional growth. Hands-on learning is accomplished through creativity, self-expression, and good old-fashioned fun. It offers programs for children from one-yearold through pre-kindergarten.

Little Hands on Learning Academy

4961 SW 148th Ave, Davie www. littlehandsonlearningacademy.com 954-434-3166

Little Hands-On Learning Academy offers young children the opportunity to learn and develop in a happy, secure, creative and stimulating environment. ..................................................................................

Saint Paul Lutheran Preschool

580 Indian Trace www.stpaulweston.org 954-384-9096

St. Paul Lutheran Preschool is a ministry of the Church and its mission is to strengthen the children and families of our diverse community. They offer classes for children 18 months to Pk-4 and follow the Department of Children and Families student/teacher ratio standards. The school offers many experiences that facilitate high levels of learning that promote interaction among children and create a safe emotional environment while keeping Jesus’s love at the heart and center. Lessons and classroom activities support four main areas of development: Cognitive, Emotional, Psychomotor, and Language. ..................................................................................

Temple Dor Dorim Early Childhood Center

2360 Glades Cir, Weston www.dordorim.org 954-389-1232

Temple Dor Dorim Early Childhood Center has earned a reputation for meeting the highest standards of excellence in early childhood education. Its curriculum is integrated so that experiences are connected and learning is meaningful. Through a centers-based approach, children are exposed to a language rich environment that encourages the early skills necessary for reading and writing. This year, it is adding a dual language (English and Spanish) pre-kindergarten class.

Tiny Planet Preschool

16098 W State Rd 84 www.tinyplanet.education 954-384-4884

Tiny Planet Preschool is committed to providing the best educational experience possible in a loving and caring environment. It offers a bilingual curriculum and follows a multi-disciplinary approach to learning. At Tiny Planet, teachers incorporate the use of Mac computers, iPads, digital cameras, and Apple Smart TV, to support the learning and research going on in each of the classrooms. ..................................................................................

Tree of Life Christian Academy

1250 SW 160th Ave www.treeoflifeacademy.com 954-440-0174

Tree of Life Christian Academy is committed to providing children with a higher level of care and education in a safe, nurturing, academically challenging and culturally diverse environment. The bilingual school combined two top-rated curriculums to create one unique high-level learning curriculum for its students. Tree of Life offers programs for children from infancy through pre-kindergarten. ..................................................................................

Weston Christian Academy

1420 Indian Trace, Weston www.westonchristianacademy.org 954-349-9224

Since 1995, Weston Christian Academy has served students of Christian families from 3-year-old kindergarten through 8th grade. It is a classical Christian school that provides a well-rounded education focused on academics, the arts and athletics. Its academic program is designed to promote the development of knowledge, wisdom, and critical thinking skills.