Playground Aug/Sep Education Issue + Enrichment Guide

For Central Florida's Modern Parents

The Education

Learning is exciting, and your child is eager to learn with a natural curiosity that knows no bounds. Through a balance of purposeful play and nurturing guidance, Primrose school teachers foster that curiosity and help your child feel a sense of pride and accomplishment that leads to a lifelong love of learning.

by

Now Enrolling

Kiddie Academy has the teachers, tools and inspiration it takes to nurture oversized confidence and big ideas. It’s all part of becoming an amazing adult, and begins with our Life Essentials® philosophy:

Learn

Apopka

Phone: (407) 605-5410

DCF License #:

C09OR0993

Clermont

Phone: (352) 989-5894

DCF License #:

C05LA0088

Hunters Creek Phone: (407) 664-2073

DCF License #:

C09OR1065

LongwoodLake Mary Phone: (407) 332-0045

DCF License #:

C18SE0249

Orlando-Conway Phone: (407) 601-3366

DCF License #: C09OR1160

Oviedo Phone: (407) 554-3816

DCF License #: C18SE0325

SanfordHeathrow Phone: (407) 732-0080

DCF License #:

C18SE0334

Winter Park

Phone: (407) 664-2072

DCF License #:

C09OR1199

Oakland Phone: (407) 961-6060

Coming around February 2023!

Lake Nona Phone: (407) 316-2354

Coming around February 2023!

Let’s Talk About Mental Health

When I was growing up, I read about depression for the first time in Seventeen magazine. As I perused the pages, looking at the list of warning signs and seeing quotes from real girls, I remember thinking that depression was more of an older kid problem. Unfortunately, if I were 12 today, I don’t think that would be the case. Now, our children are living in a world where everything — from what you eat for breakfast to the lip gloss you apply — is meticulously documented online. Layer on more intense pressures to perform well in school and extracurriculars along with the regular rollercoaster of emotions of childhood and puberty, and you have the perfect storm for feeling less than or inadequate.

With the start of the new school year here, there’s no better time to do a family wellness check-in. Ask kids what they’re excited for, what they’re nervous about and just how they feel in general. Having open, honest dialogue about all the things — even tough topics like mental unrest — is the key to making your children feel supported and loved. Because mental health in children is such an important topic, we dedicated an entire section of this issue to it. From AdventHealth for Children and Heart of Florida United Way’s innovative Be a Mindleader program (page 22), to the importance of moving your body (page 24), to practicing healthy social media habits (page 28), there’s a wide assortment of articles to help parents and kids know what to do if worrisome feelings bubble up.

This issue is also home to our annual After School Enrichment Guide on page 35, dedicated to all the amazing programs Central Florida has to offer. Don't miss our QR code in Talk of the Playground (page 9) that points you to Chris Karel's satire piece about the state of children’s sports, reminding parents to let go of expectations and simply let our kids be kids – don’t be that parent.

We’ve also included a printable morning checklist (page 12) and a preschool quiz (page 14) to help you start the school year feeling more organized and prepared than ever. That’s a goal we can all get behind, right?

PLAYfully yours,

Maddy Zollo Rusbosin

@maddyzollo

PLAYGROUND

Heather Reneau Publisher & Creative Director heather@playgroundmagazine.com

Brant Muekeley Financial Manager brant@playgroundmagazine.com

Jessica Ventura Advertising Manager jessica@playgroundmagazine.com

Maddy Zollo Rusbosin Editor maddy.zollo@gmail.com

Cortney Thekan Copy Editor cortney@playgroundmagazine.com

Jessica Friend Graphic Designer & Photographer jessica.friend@playgroundmagazine.com

Alicia McKee Advertising Assistant alicia@playgroundmagazine.com

Kristina Hodge Henry Online Editor kristinahodgehenry@gmail.com

Contributing Writers:

Amanda Spence

Chris Karel

Heather Reneau

Kelli Magnicari

Maddy Zollo Rusbosin

PLAYGROUND Magazine is published bimonthly by Playground Media Group, LLC, 10151 University Blvd., Ste. 326, Orlando, FL 32817. Telephone 407-221-4932.

PLAYGROUND Magazine does not assume liability for products or services advertised herein. The content of PLAYGROUND Magazine is copyrighted by Playground Media Group, LLC.

Subscribe to PLAYGROUND Magazine at playgroundmagazine.com/subscribe

To update subscription information, email subscriptions@playgroundmagazine.com.

Cover Photo: Max Kegfire @kegfire

For Your Best Choice.

At Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, we make choosing a children’s hospital easy for you. And once again, U.S. News & World Report has recognized our efforts by naming us a “Best Children’s Hospital” for the 14th year in a row. Learn more at ArnoldPalmerHospital.com choose well.

The Talk of the Playground

Product picks, hot topics and what’s happening around town!

It’s FUNtastic!

Looking for an exciting way to spend a hot or rainy afternoon? Head to Funtastic Depot, a brand-new family entertainment center with every activity you can dream of. Whether you’re watching a dazzling live show, hitting up a karaoke booth, exploring a multi-level playground, taking on the ninja obstacle course or gaming the day away in the arcade, this is truly a spot where you can choose your own adventure.

6828 Hoffner Ave., Orlando • Funtasticdepot.com

5,700…

…That’s the number of school-aged children in Central Florida that Blessings in a Backpack serves by providing essential weekend meals. For volunteer opportunities like packing events, designing encouraging note cards and more, sign up for the newsletter and follow them on social media.

Orlando.blessingsinabackpack.org

Buy This!

Say hello to eLo! Short for Explore, Learn and Observe, the brand was started by a trio of moms, one of whom is a local licensed marriage and family therapist who focuses on putting kids' mental well-being first.

We love the eLo™ Deck: Kids Affirmations, Activities, and Parenting Resource Flashcards that give kids a daily boost of positivity. Add this activity to your morning routine to help your child start their day off strong.

Available at Good Growd, College Park Goodcrowdshop.com

Get Ready for a (Pop-Up) Party

If you have a little one from crawling age up to age 5, bookmark Birdies ASAP for your next party or playdate. This “pop-up play” rental company specializes in soft play items like ball pits, foam climbing and tumbling elements, tunnels, bouncer animals and more. Book a package and they’ll assemble a picture-perfect play space for your littles to enjoy.

Birdiesorlando.com

4 Amazing Things to Do at Urban Air

This indoor adventure trampoline park in Altamonte Springs takes fun to new heights. If your kids are up to the challenge, see if they can do all this (and so much more!) on your next visit:

1. Heat Up the Competition: Who is the dodgeball king? What about the balance beam champ? Challenge your friends to see who comes out on top as you scale, jump and play against one another at the park’s various attractions.

2. Channel Your Inner Ninja: From hanging rings to uneven platforms, the warrior course is designed to test your speed, strength and agility. Don’t worry if you fall — a cushioned ball pit is there to catch you!

3. Get Climbing: Scale the ropes course or one of the climbing walls to see what the view is like from the top.

4. Go to New Heights: Whether it’s seeing how high you can bounce on one of the many trampolines or cruising on the Sky Rider (a zip line-like experience), there are countless ways to get some air.

Urbanair.com

Nature and Nurture Academy

Looking for new ways to engage your children? Meet Morgan Cook, an early childhood educator and founder of Nature and Nurture Academy who creates engaging yet educational opportunities for kiddos at home. She sells (adorable!) sensory play items, has a mini mobile classroom and o ers private tutoring, birthday parties, events and beyond. Not only that, but she is even the brains behind the Lil Locals Play Town located within College Park’s Yaya + Lou. Create-growth.com

DO YOU AGREE?

By Chris Karel

“Field of Screamers: Adults Acting Like Children are Ruining Youth Sports”

SCAN TO READ

While the kids have been on vacation, Central Florida educators have been hard at work making sure this coming academic year is better than ever. Here’s a round-up of some exciting news from schools around town:

WINDERMERE PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Their latest program, Expeditions: The Americas, takes learning far beyond the classroom. Windermere Preparatory, a Nord Anglia Education (NAE) School, has partnered with other NAE institutions across North and South America to broaden students’ cultural knowledge and understanding. Each year, a handful of high schoolers have the opportunity to travel to a unique destination (the first was a visit to Costa Rica) for an immersive learning experience that’s centered around sustainable development. Upon their return, the students are encouraged to implement what they learned and bring new ideas back to the Windermere Prep community.

What’s New with Local Schools

Check out these A+ additions

THE GENEVA SCHOOL

After celebrating its 30th anniversary in May, The Geneva School is keeping the party going with Riley Arena. While the sports complex technically opened its doors last spring, this is the first full year students can cheer on their Knights and enjoy all the building’s amenities, from the weight room to an outdoor basketball court.

XL ACADEMY

The full-time soccer school is scoring big with updates for both Central Florida campuses. The Lake Nona campus is now welcoming fourth and fifth graders, and it plans to broaden its scope to include more grades by August 2024. Meanwhile, the Winter Park campus is gearing up for a significant 20,000-squarefoot expansion, which will include six new classrooms, a sports performance center, a cafeteria, an auditorium, a cleat room and even a professionalgrade locker area inspired by an English Premier League stadium and training grounds.

PARK MAITLAND SCHOOL

The private school is expanding in three exciting ways:

1. Now, thanks to a grade expansion, students can attend eighth grade at the Main Campus.

2. After acquiring adjacent land, the Winter Park-based preschool is gaining a building. Beyond eight more classrooms, they’re adding two playgrounds as well.

3. Meet Park Maitland School

South! The newly purchased campus (which used to be Parke House Academy) has been renovated to serve first through fifth grade classes, so parents can now choose between two campus experiences for their elementary schoolers.

THE FIRST ACADEMY

Besides having a fresh face as their varsity football coach this season, The First Academy's original gym is currently transforming into the Natalie Thomas Student Center. The multi-use space, slated to open in late fall, will house campus events, weekly chapel, fine arts performances and more.

HOWARD MIDDLE SCHOOL

The downtown Orlando middle school’s renovation plan is officially underway. With the project slated to be complete by the end of 2025, the Orange County public school will have a reimagined courtyard, updated interiors and a new roof, among other improvements.

LAKE HIGHLAND PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Upperclassmen will be soon wandering the halls of the Porter Family Center for Innovation & Academics. The 70,000+ square-foot building will be home to a student center, an innovation institute, an administrative center, a mathematics institute, center for literary arts and more. Opening at the start of the school year, the collaborative space is designed to be a hub for students to learn, socialize and study.

THE CHRIST SCHOOL

There are now more places to learn (and play!). The Christ School’s students and faculty will be excited to get back on campus to check out ten new classrooms along with a teachers’ workroom, staff offices, and fresh artificial turf on the “Green Space.” These additions allow more families to join TCS’s community without compromising on their small classroom size or academic standards.

We asked local mom and artist Natalie Henry-Charles, owner of Pretty Peacock Paperie, to create this morning checklist to help ease the morning rush.

Pop Quiz:

What Preschool Is Right for Your Family?

Starting to kick around the idea of preschool? With so many options in the Orlando area, you might be wondering where to begin.

PLAYGROUND put together a fun quiz that’ll help you find the early education ethos that’s the best fit for your family:

By Maddy Zollo Rusbosin

1. What's your toddler's go-to toy?

a. This month's Lovevery box

b. Fisher-Price Little People Caring for Animals Farm

c. MAGNA-TILES

d. Shape sorter

2. What TV show is on repeat in your house?

a. Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood

b. Blippi

c. Sid the Science Kid

d. Ms. Rachel

3. It's a rainy day. Where do you go with your kiddo?

a. Creative Jane for some creative, sensory art play

b. An indoor playground like My Gym or Millie Moo's

c. KidsTown at the Orlando Science Center

d. Storytime at your local library

4. What's the number one thing you want your toddler to get out of preschool?

a. Independence

b. Socialization

c. Critical thinking

d. Knowledge

5. Who does your toddler want to be when they grow up?

a. Explorer

b. Prince or princess

c. Astronaut

d. Doctor

6. What’s your toddler's favorite thing at the playground?

a. Playhouse

b. Swings

c. See-saw

d. Sandbox

What's Your Grade?

TALLY UP YOUR ANSWERS TO FIND YOUR CHILD'S PRESCHOOL PERSONALITY!

a.

b.

c.

d.

Answer Key

mostly As: MONTESSORI

mostly Bs: PLAY-BASED

mostly Cs: STEM

mostly Ds: ACADEMIC

A Montessori preschool encourages hands-on learning, self-directed activities and collaborative play. Classrooms are set up to encourage independence — often with mats on the floor and wooden toys on low shelves — to foster each child’s potential and cultivate their interests and independence.

• Example: Nona Park Montessori School

Learning through play is the name of the game here. From guided activities and projects to plenty of open play opportunities, this approach is all about teaching littles how to make sense of their world through active engagement with their teachers, peers and objects.

• Examples: Kiddie Academy, O2B Kids

STEM schools are an ideal option for parents looking to enrich their littles in science, technology, engineering and math. In the preschool years, the focus is on having children look at the world through a STEM lens with activities rooted in curiosity, inquiry and play.

• Examples: Orlando Science Center Preschool, Amazing Explorers Academy

Whether your child loves learning their ABCs or seems to be wanting more of a challenge, an academic-centric school may be the right fit. Of course, there’s plenty of playtime, but a more concentrated effort is put into teaching cognitive skills and knowledge.

• Examples: Primrose Schools, Park Maitland School

HITTING THE HI-LITE

Unleashing Your Child's Success

By Chris Karel

The founder of Hi-Lite Coaching and Consulting says the secret to helping your kids flourish is to pay attention and stay engaged.

For 20 years, Jessica Villegas worked alongside young adults in a variety of corporate jobs, and she started to recognize echoes of her past in the casual conversations she had with her colleagues. Over time, she discovered that many of them were still wrestling with the same obstacles she had overcome.

“Growing up, my home life was very turbulent,” explains Jessica. “My parents were emotionally unavailable and made poor decisions. As a result, I found it difficult to focus in school, and my social life choices weren’t aligned to a successful future.”

When the COVID-19 pandemic took hold in the U.S., she watched as schools, youth sports and other social activities for kids were shut down. Knowing the damage to children’s mental health would be deep and widespread, Jessica decided to do something about it by launching Hi-Lite Coaching and Consulting. Since its inception in November 2020, Hi-Lite has evolved into a team of success coaches that teach participants introspection, critical thinking and organizational skills — all things necessary for kids to reach their future goals.

Nowadays, it seems like the pressure for children to perform in both academics and extracurriculars is happening earlier and earlier, so PLAYGROUND chatted with Jessica about the right way to encourage kids, how to navigate the teen years, how to balance technology consumption, and other tips for parents who want to guide their children without stifling them.

Where are you from, and how did you end up in Central Florida?

I'm originally from Beaufort, South Carolina, but I relocated to Orlando in 2001. I came here to attend UCF, but I also wanted to expand my worldview and make a clean break from my difficult childhood. Coming down here was a way for me to start fresh and leave some of that behind — and it worked! I’ve been able to build a life that would be unrecognizable to my younger self.

How would the young Jessica have benefited from the work you do at Hi-Lite?

The program I’ve designed for Hi-Lite has been constructed around what I desperately needed to guide me in my young life. I needed help connecting with who I was and who I wanted to become so that I would be better equipped to make big life decisions. With that clarity comes the confidence to transition into adulthood without trepidation.

How do you think your childhood differed from what kids are experiencing today?

Most of the young adults I worked with in the corporate world had no idea what they wanted to do with their lives. I began to identify trends and spent time learning more about the root cause of their struggles as young adults. The findings were surprisingly similar to my own experiences as a teen and young adult, with one big exception: technology. The influence of social media and endless access to instant gratification has made it more difficult for adolescents to navigate that transition into adulthood.

The U.S. Surgeon General recently released an advisory about the risks that social media use poses for children. Do you agree with that assessment?

As a mother of three girls ages 15, 12 and 5, I can say with great confidence that social media is not designed for a young, developing brain. As children enter adolescence, they become acutely aware of things they never noticed when they were younger, from relationship power dynamics and their bodies to hormonal fluctuations and possible romantic attraction to others. The teen brain is easily influenced, and access to social media creates the perception of a different world through highly curated, unrealistic content. Teens are naturally egocentric, so that can cause them to retreat inward, develop self-sabotaging behaviors and thought patterns and seek approval in unhealthy ways.

What can parents do to help support their children as they develop from kids into young adults?

When it comes to technology and social media, I strongly urge parents to assess the maturity of their kids before allowing them to have access. Keep tight controls until you feel confident that they’re developing healthy habits in life, academics and social circles.

Aside from that, keep an open dialogue. Start young and stay consistent with creating a psychologically safe space for your child to seek refuge. Try to refrain from casting judgment or applying conditions to your support by listening to what they have to say; remaining curious about their decisions, thoughts or emotions; and verbally taking notice of their efforts. Celebrate the small things as well as the big things. Make a big deal out of the good stuff. Staying curious about and supportive of the person they are becoming — without inserting your opinion on who you think they should be — will pay dividends over time.

Jessica Villegas

sweeping revival is underway.

A sweeping revival is underway.

Winter Park’s legacy creates a novel opportunity for a fortunate few to thrive inside renowned, mixed-use urban lifestyle center reputation for upscale shopping, dining, entertainment is synonymous with the affluent community it serves.

Winter Park’s legacy creates a novel opportunity for a fortunate few to thrive inside a renowned, mixed-use urban lifestyle center whose reputation for upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment is synonymous with the affluent community it serves.

A sweeping revival is underway.

Shelby

and the bird Harper Jo of Winter Park Premier Event Planning Services by bashorlando.com

Timeless Classics & Whimsical Looks

LET US SHOW YOU THE FUTURE

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407.647.KIDS

A sweeping revival is underway.

A sweeping revival is underway.

Winter Park’s legacy creates a novel opportunity for a fortunate few to thrive inside a renowned, mixed-use urban lifestyle center whose reputation for upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment is synonymous with the affluent community it serves.

Winter Park’s legacy creates a novel opportunity for a fortunate few to thrive inside a renowned, mixed-use urban lifestyle center whose reputation for upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment is synonymous with the affluent community it serves.

LET US SHOW YOU THE FUTURE WPVNEXT.COM

A sweeping revival is underway.

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shop, dine, unwind & live in style!

shop, A sweeping revival is underway.

Winter Park’s legacy creates a novel opportunity for a fortunate few to thrive inside a renowned, mixed-use urban lifestyle center whose reputation for upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment is synonymous with the affluent community it serves.

A sweeping revival is underway.

Winter Park’s legacy creates a novel opportunity for a fortunate few to thrive inside a renowned, mixed-use urban lifestyle center whose reputation for upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment is synonymous with the affluent community it serves.

Winter Park’s legacy creates a novel opportunity for a fortunate few to thrive inside a renowned, mixed-use urban lifestyle center whose reputation for upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment is synonymous with the affluent community it serves.

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Mental Fitness for Kids

Did you know 1 in 5 kids is struggling with their mental health?

While words like “depression” and “anxiety” sound scary, parents need to lean into learning about the challenges kids are facing.

Check out what these local experts have to say about how to support your child’s mental health:

> Be a Mindleader...

Pg. 22

> Let’s Get Physical...

Pg. 24

> Feel-Good Foods...

Pg. 26

The more you know about mental health, the better equipped you are to help your child navigate their feelings and emotions.

> Social Media Boundaries...Pg. 28

Illustration:

Parents & Caregivers:

Be a mindleader

AdventHealth for Children and Heart of Florida United Way are helping parents and caregivers start the mental health conversation with their kids.

Maybe there’s a troubling social media post. Maybe there’s a change in appetite and sleep patterns. Or maybe there’s no warning sign at all. Mental health issues in children can manifest in different ways, making it challenging for parents to know when their child needs support.

Only 1 in 3 parents regularly discusses mental health with their kids, which in turn can stigmatize feelings of depression, anxiety or suicidal ideation. After years of planning and studying the subject, this past May AdventHealth for Children and Heart of Florida United Way teamed up to start a movement to bring these hard conversations to the forefront and empower the Orlando community.

At its core, the Be a Mindleader program brings expert information into the hands of parents and caregivers in order to start that life-changing conversation between kids and the adults in their lives. Through the program’s website (beamindleader.com) and resources, social media, news segments and articles like this one, the hope is that the message about destigmatizing mental health will reach those who need it most.

“We’re really trying to just get the word out there so it’s something that people feel safe and more comfortable talking about,” explains Dr. Tina Gurnani, a child and adolescent psychiatrist with AdventHealth for Children. “1 in 5 kids suffers from mental health problems across the board, but that’s when you are talking about diagnosed

mental health conditions. That statistic doesn’t take into account the high likelihood of undiagnosed mental health issues.”

The surge in mental health issues in children has prompted a need for more open dialogue. “We’ve seen a rise in mental health challenges in children, higher than we’ve ever seen in the past couple of decades,” continues Dr. Gurnani. “While past years included higher rates of drunk driving, teen pregnancy and smoking tobacco, these occurrences today are much lower, and instead, these other mental health challenges, like depression and anxiety, have increased.”

Since more than half of mental illnesses begin by age 14, it’s important for parents, even those of younger children, to be well-versed in the warning signs. According to Dr. Gurnani, the biggest red flag is an increase in irritability. Others include trouble sleeping, eating too little or too much, withdrawing from friends and family, losing interest in activities and hobbies they once enjoyed, falling grades or partaking in drugs or alcohol. While any of these warrant a conversation, the best way to get ahead of problems is by continuously engaging in thoughtful dialogue with your children on a regular basis — and to trust your parental instinct when something isn’t right.

“A lot of parents struggle with how to approach kids, especially if their children are standoffish or closed off,” says Dr. Gurnani. “But ideally, set a dedicated time daily,

Mental health issues can affect younger children too. Kids as young as age 3 have been treated, so it’s important to trust your parental instincts if something seems off. While younger children may not be able to articulate what’s wrong, their actions may reflect inner turmoil. If you feel like something isn’t right, book an appointment with your pediatrician or a psychologist to help evaluate whether new or unusual behaviors are part of normal development or a sign that your child needs mental health support.

Photo: Getty Images

“We’ve seen a rise in mental health challenges in children, higher than we’ve ever seen in the past couple of decades,” continues Dr. Gurnani. “While past years included higher rates of drunk driving, teen pregnancy, and smoking tobacco, these occurrences today are much lower, and instead, these other mental health challenges, like depression and anxiety, have increased.”

even if it’s 5 minutes, to speak with your child in an uninterrupted, quiet place. Ask them about their day, how they’ve been feeling emotionally, if they’re struggling or if anyone they know is struggling.”

The AdventHealth for Children team has even put together an online list of conversation starters to serve as a guide for parents. The key to having a successful discussion? Be nonjudgmental and accept what kids have to say. This doesn’t necessarily mean you need to agree with all their choices or what they’re saying, but parental validation is crucial.

If you do think there’s a problem at hand after talking with your child, the Be a Mindleader digital catalog has everything you need to seek help or treatment. From lists of resources and different hotlines to seeking local in-person treatment, AdventHealth for Children has done its best to put everything in one place. One of the most unique aspects the health system offers is through the Mental Health Navigation program, where parents simply call 407-517-7593 and get direction on where to find exactly what they need within the community. These navigators assist in finding practices that take insurance, aid in booking appointments and pass along other relevant resources.

Simply put, this initiative is pushing for all families to prioritize mental well-being. “If you have a constant stomachache, you don’t just ignore it — you go see a

PLAYGROUND MAGAZINE

’

doctor,” explains Dr. Rajan Wadhawan, the senior executive officer of AdventHealth for Children and an integral part of the team behind Be a Mindleader. “We’re trying to make it that if something is bothering you emotionally, you also seek help — even if it ends up not being anything significant.”

The grant from Dr. Phillips Charities that supports this partnership between AdventHealth for Children and Heart of Florida United Way has also led the way to establishing the AdventHealth for Children Mental Health Program. This program aims to bridge the gap between patients and healthcare professionals, doing away with long wait times for appointments because children often need assistance ASAP. The AdventHealth for Children Mental Health Program can see patients coming from the hospital within days and outpatient children within a few short weeks.

“The more we can get the word out about mental wellbeing, the better,” furthers Dr. Wadhawan. “Because even if we don’t treat a patient in person, if someone hears about our resources, it could help save a life. We’re hoping to create a real change within the community.”

Scan the QR Code for the article, “How to Ask Your Child About Their Feelings.”

S MENTAL HEALTH TOOL KIT

Kids aren’t the only ones who need resources — parents do too since they’re often the front-line responders for their children. Here are two more ways to make mindfulness a priority.

What Can You Do at Home?

Be: My Mindfulness Journal by Wee Society teaches kids ages 6-12 how to feel feelings without letting them take over, handle challenges, express themselves and build confidence to be exactly who they are. Available for $18 at Good Crowd in College Park (goodcrowdshop.com).

Not Sure How to Find a Therapist?

Grow Therapy provides better access to mental health care. This online platform strives to make it easier for families to find a provider who’s right for you, takes your insurance and specializes in the areas you want to focus on through interactive virtual or in-person care.

GrowTherapy.com

Let s Get Physical

The simplest way to boost your mood: Get moving!

Words by Maddy Zollo Rusbosin

As an adult, you know there’s no better feeling than right after a solid workout: The stress has melted away, you feel more fit and there’s just a little more pep in your step. A similar post-sweat euphoria happens to kids too — but instead of hopping on a Peloton, they’re scootering around the block. If your child needs a pick-me-up, try turning off Netflix and getting some fresh air.

So why exactly is physical activity such a mood enhancer?

Let Dr. Cassidy M. Foley Davelaar, a local mom of three and double-boarded physician in pediatrics and sports medicine at Nemours Children’s Health Florida, answer your questions:

Why does working out make kids feel better?

“The symbiotic relationship between physical activity and positive mental health is impressive. Not only does working out make you feel better physically, but it also improves your mental state,” explains Dr. Foley. The reason? Moving your body increases dopamine and serotonin, which are the same neurotransmitters that antidepressants increase. As their levels increase, it triggers a surge of happiness in your brain, which in turn improves your mood. “Kids who participate in physical activity have better selfesteem and more self-confidence,” furthers Dr. Foley. “And in the long run, they’re less likely to get involved in risky activities like smoking marijuana or drinking and instead more likely to go to college.”

What age should I encourage my child to get moving?

As soon as possible! Even infants should be encouraged to move freely on their playmats and during tummy time. An important window of opportunity is around age 5.

“In the kindergarten year, kids tend to be overzealous and they have a better impression of themselves than the reality,” explains Dr. Foley. “This can be referred to as the ‘Superman phase’ when they’re jumping off the backs of couches because they think they can fly. 5-year-olds think they are good at everything.”

This uptick in self-confidence is the ideal time to get kids involved in a sport. According to Dr. Foley, exposure is key. “Expose them to everything. You want to do ball-handling skills and locomotive skills. Gymnastics is also fantastic for boys and girls. Basically, look for anything that incorporates body movement and balance, hand-eye coordination and moving your body through space.”

How long should I encourage my kids to break a sweat?

With jam-packed academic and extracurricular schedules, it may feel impossible to squeeze something else into the mix, but don’t stress. While a full hour is the recommended amount of time, it doesn’t need to happen all in one hour. “Just having kids outside doing a physical activity where they’re moving their body for four 15-minute time periods is really helpful in developing some of those motor skills,” says Dr. Foley. An early morning dance party, a lunchtime stroll, a trip to the playground and an evening bike ride all add up.

What are the best activities for kids?

If your child is involved in team sports, great! But if not, there are other options. “Research has shown that resistance training is a really great way to get kids involved,” says Dr. Foley. “And while what’s considered resistance training is a spectrum, at its core, its light weights and reps to build lean muscle.” Resistance training can be done in at home (think: lunges, push-ups, squats, free weights), which takes the pressure off kids who may be selfconscious about performing in front of their peers. “Resistance training is a great place to start for kids to feel their body move in space,” Dr. Foley continues. “And it’s a great place to start seeing improvements like, ‘I could only do 8 last week, and now I’m doing 10.’ Small improvements are a big gain for those kids, and that builds up their self-esteem.” Other ideas include yoga, walking, swimming and biking. Anything that gets your kiddo moving counts, so get creative by building obstacle courses in the house or playing games like catch-the-scarf or tag.

Is there anything else parents should know?

“They should know they have a hard task ahead of them. It’s challenging to get kids involved in physical activity,” says Dr. Foley. “And the thing that shocks me the most about the research is that you want to get kids involved as young as possible.” So if you’re thinking of waiting until your kid is older to start focusing on physical activity, you may want to reconsider. “At that point, you really might have missed that window of opportunity where your child had that increased self-esteem when they were happy to try and fail and fail and fail,” she explains. “At the end of the day, you really want to expose them to as much physical activity and as many different types of it as possible at a young age.”

Photo: iStock | Ryan J Lane

1. Reimagine Breakfast

Feel-Good Foods

The foods kids consume can affect their concentration, focus and behavior. We asked Kelli Magnicari, children’s nutrition specialist and founder of Simply Fit Kids, to share ideas to enhance your child’s mood through diet.

Words by Kelli Magnicari

Here are three simple tweaks to keep kids feeling good:

Mornings are hectic, so it’s easy to turn to cereal, pastries and bagels. But these highcarb and low-to-no protein foods trigger blood sugar spikes, which can cause mood swings, lack of focus, memory impairment and immune system suppression — all things that don’t mix well with a long day at school. Rework your breakfast menu to include eggs, organic chicken sausage, yogurt (watch the sugar), fruit smoothies, unsweetened almond or coconut milk with a protein powder supplement, or a pancake/waffle mix with low sugar and added protein (like Kodiak mix).

2. Power Up with Protein

One important nutrient many meals lack is protein. It’s essential to kids’ growth and development. Protein helps repair and grow muscle and tissue and aids in building healthy hormones and a resilient immune system. Plus, protein helps you feel full longer and balances your blood sugar. I’ve found it makes kiddos less hungry, keeping them in a more stable mood. Great sources of protein include eggs, yogurt, cottage cheese, chicken, turkey, seafood, chicken sausage, whey protein in moderation or pea protein if your child has a dairy sensitivity.

Need some recipe inspo?

3. Embrace Healthy Fat

Healthy fats, nuts, avocado and olive oil support brain development in children and assist in the absorption of certain fat-soluble vitamins. Low vitamin D can make many of us feel down or even a little depressed. Healthy fats also help stablize your little one’s blood sugar and stave off that “hangry” feeling, which can cause them to be irritable and lose focus.

Here are two mood-boosting ideas kiddos will devour:

Egg Muffins

A simple yet filling breakfast recipe that will last all week!

Ingredients:

• 12 eggs

• 1/2 cup milk or almond milk

• 5 slices of turkey bacon (cooked and chopped)

• 4 pieces of chicken sausage (cooked and cut in pieces)

• Chopped spinach, onions and peppers (optional)

• 1/2 cup cheese of your choice

Directions:

Directions:

- Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

- Whisk eggs with milk and pour into muffin cups.

- Sprinkle in bacon, sausage, veggies and a dash of salt and pepper.

- Bake for 10 minutes.

- Sprinkle with cheese and bake for 10 more minutes.

Yogurt Bark

Offer this to kids as an after school treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 large container of Oikos PRO vanilla yogurt

• 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips (lowest sugar you can find)

• 1/3 cup of chopped strawberries or pistachios

- Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper.

- Spread out yogurt evenly onto the pan.

- Sprinkle with chocolate chips.

- Place in the freezer for at least 2 hours.

- Once frozen, break into pieces and enjoy.

Need more help to create a healthier lifestyle for your family? Follow Simply Fit Kids on Facebook and Instagram @simplyfitkids or to set up a consultation today!

Photos: iStock

SOCIAL MEDIA BOUNDARIES

How to Encourage a Healthy Relationship with Your Kids, Their Phones and Social Media

Words by Amanda Spence | Photo: iStock

Nurturing a healthy relationship between kids, their phones and social media can seem like a daunting task in today’s technologydriven world, but it’s a critical part of parenting. Just like us, kids use phones for everything from gaming and social media to scrolling the web. Parents can’t monitor every second their kids spend online but establishing guidelines will help set them up for success.

PLAYGROUND spoke to Lauren Parker, Psy.S. NCSP, a local licensed school psychologist, about ways we can help kids learn to use phones and social media responsibly.

IT’S ALL ABOUT BALANCE

Parents often think they should just put hard limits on screen time instead of trying to think of it as a balance. “It’s important to focus on the balance versus the limit,” says Lauren. “As parents, we get a lot of guilty feelings when we put our kids on screens when we need a break or they need a break.”

However, phones can play a positive role in a child’s life. Some kids, such as those in high school, get a lot of their information about classes, activities and school events through social media and their phones. In addition, kids socialize with their friends on their devices.

“There’s a lot of healthy relationship building and socialization that happens through those phones and social media,” explains Lauren. “It’s about balancing the quantity of time that they’re on and helping them understand the difference between experiencing something in real life versus experiencing something through social media.”

PARENTAL CONTROLS ARE YOUR FRIEND

Technology is here to stay, but parents can monitor what their kids are doing online through parental controls on social media and gaming apps. For example, TikTok has parental controls that allow parents to limit the types of videos kids can see or the amount of time they can be on the app. Games like Roblox have settings designed to prevent strangers from messaging your child and allow you to approve their friends.

One must-do is to ensure your kids keep their accounts private for added protection. It’s critical to talk with kids about safety. The “stranger danger” concept extends to online interactions as well as physical interactions.

Be sure to use the apps yourself so you know exactly what kids are experiencing daily. Playing games alongside your kids allows you to provide feedback and parental guidance as they learn to navigate online interactions.

“Make sure you’re friends with your children on apps so that you can monitor their activity,” says Lauren. “And be aware that some kids may have ghost accounts that you don’t know about.”

HAVE AN OPEN DIALOGUE

Parents should keep an open dialogue with their kids about their phones and social media usage. What they’re seeing as they scroll through their feed isn’t always the full reality of people’s lives, so explaining that to them is crucial to promoting a healthy relationship with social media early on.

“Your friends are going to post the very best experiences that they have on social media, but that’s not the totality of their life,” Lauren explains. “Your life isn’t always this fantastic. So, make sure that they’re not overestimating how great their friends’ lives are by only comparing themselves to their friends’ social media accounts.”

PRACTICE WHAT YOU PREACH

As parents, we need to lead by example when it comes to managing how we use our phones. While that can be hard when you’re bombarded with notifications from emails, social media and phone calls, it’s crucial to ensuring your kids have a healthy relationship with their phones.

“Even as adults, we have a lot of pressure to be tied to our phones, to respond to every text from every person as soon as it comes in,” Lauren explains. “Modeling healthy screen habits is really hard and really important.”

Promoting healthy habits takes persistence and engagement. “The screens are going to be there,” Lauren says. “Kids are going to have screen time. They’re going to engage socially through social media and gaming platforms. As a parent, don’t just send them off and assume everything’s going to be fine, but instead educate yourself on how to create these safe environments for your kids.”

Lauren Parker, Psy.S. NCSP Central Florida Gifted Center cflgifted.com

GO PLAY! Family Events Calendar

Here’s what’s happening around town this August and September.

H2O GLOW AFTER HOURS

Select Dates, Now–September 2

TYPHOON LAGOON

Dress in your neon best for a glow-riously good time during a DJ dance party with some of your fave Disney characters, tasty food, drinks and all-you-can-eat treats! Enjoy shorter wait times for your favorite slides at this 3-hour night-time event! Disneyworld.disney.go

EPCOT INTERNATIONAL

FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL

Now–November 18

EPCOT

Enjoy one of the most beloved Central Florida traditions at Epcot’s annual food and wine fest. It’s the best way to experience the World Showcase and check out the new Remy's Ratatouille Adventure and Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind rides while you’re there! disneyworld.disney.go.com

HISTORY ALIVE!

August 5 & September 2, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

ORANGE COUNTY REGIONAL

HISTORY CENTER

On the first Saturday of every month, the past comes alive at the History Center! Visitors can engage with history through interactive experiences and themed hands-on activities for the whole family. Experiences vary each month and may include crafts, artifact exploration, story time, games and more. The themes for August and September are Delicious Citrus and Florida’s Pioneering Spirit. thehistorycenter.org

MICKEY’S NOT-SO-SCARY HALLOWEEN PARTY

August 11–November 1

MAGIC KINGDOM

Candies, costumes, characters and more awaits at the biggest Halloween party for kids in Orlando. Guests will enjoy the Booto-You parade and the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular, where Cinderella’s castle becomes haunted and fireworks and lasers light up the sky. disneyworld.disney.go.com

FLORIDA KIDS & FAMILY EXPO

August 12–13

ORANGE COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER

There will be 150+ exhibitors on-hand to share schools, organizations, products, services and more with your family. Plus, the expo offers entertainment throughout the day, ranging from a petting zoo to face painting.

mycentralfloridafamily.com

PARENTS NIGHT OUT

August 18, 6–9 p.m.

NAILED IT DIY ART STUDIO

On the third Friday of each month, drop your littles off at the studio to enjoy an evening with Art-tenders while you go out for up to 3 hours (hello, date night!). Kids will make a fun wood project, feast on pizza and watch a movie. The Art-tenders will guide your child through every step of their project. This event is for children ages 7 and up.

orlando.naileditdiy.com

WAWA SUMMER FUN DAYS

August 24 & 25, September 28 & 29 BOK TOWER GARDENS

Wawa Summer Fun Days return this summer with free admission to the gardens on the last Thursday and Friday of the month from May through September. This complimentary offer is limited to four visitors per registration, and admission for the day is limited to assist with capacity issues. All members of the party visiting on Wawa Summer Fun Days will need to have a ticket to enter. boktowergardens.org

FAMILY SUNSET AT THE ZOO

August 25 & September 22, 5–8 p.m.

CENTRAL FLORIDA ZOO

Skip the hottest part of the day by enjoying the sunset at the zoo instead! There will be inflatable games, activities and music. Don’t forget to check out the Wharton Smith Tropical Splash Ground. centralfloridazoo.org

SPIDER-MAN: INTO THE SPIDER-VERSE LIVE IN CONCERT

August 30, 7:30 p.m.

DR. PHILLIPS CENTER

Check out Spider-Man: Into The SpiderVerse Live in Concert! They’ve got an awesome soundtrack that mixes symphonic orchestral tunes with hip-hop beats. It’s a real treat because you get to watch the award-winning animated film on the big screen while live musicians and a DJ scratcher rock it out on stage. drphillipscenter.org

HAPPY HOUR FRIDAYS

Fridays in August & September

THE NAKED CUPCAKE

Celebrate Friday at The Naked Cupcake in Lake Nona with a family-friendly happy hour special: Buy two cupcakes, get two free! thenakedcupcakeorlando.com

MOVIE NIGHT: TOP GUN MAVERICK

September 1

LEU GARDENS

Enjoy an outdoor movie in Orlando’s most beautiful garden. Pack a picnic basket and chairs; alcohol is permitted. This movie is rated PG-13, so children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. leugardens.org

THE MAGIC SCHOOL BUS: LOST IN THE SOLAR SYSTEM

September 8–October 8

ORLANDO FAMILY STAGE

The Orlando Repertory Theatre has changed its name to the Orlando Family Stage and is kicking off its 21st Birthday Season by taking the audience on an epic planetary field trip with Ms. Frizzle on the Magic School Bus. orlandofamilystage.com

OKTOBERFEST

September 28–30

CENTER LAKE PARK, OVIEDO

Get your Lederhosen ready for a free 3-day German-themed celebration! This event will feature live music, authentic German dancing, German food, drinks and more. Children's section including Root-Bier garten and face painting. cityofoviedo.net

HAPPY FRIGHTS

September 29–October 31, 5–8:30 p.m.

LEU GARDENS

Here’s a new trick-or-treating experience for the entire family! Visit immersive worlds throughout the gardens: meet a dancing bridge troll, explore a neon light maze, walk through a garden of sunflowers, climb a giant hay pyramid, journey through a ghost pirate ship and experience Día de los Muertos! halloweeninthegarden.com

CASTING CALL

PLAYGROUND MAGAZINE'S MODEL CASTING CALL

August 17, 3:30–6 p.m.

TUGBOAT & THE BIRD

We are looking for local kids ages newborn to 12 for our Oct/Nov issue fashion story and cover photo by Simply Shelby Photography! Register online now. Let’s see those individual styles and personalities. PlaygroundMagazine.com

Happy Frights

West Lakes Early Learning Center

Empowering children to thrive, the West Lakes Early Learning Center (ELC) provides high-quality early childhood education to children 6 weeks to 5 years old through creative hands-on learning. The West Lakes ELC embraces the rich culture of the community through educational experiences, including a Black History Heroes parade that inspires students to dream big and embrace their heritage. Supported by AdventHealth for Children, the West Lakes ELC also provides comprehensive health, wellness and social services to its families. A child’s journey at the West Lakes ELC ends by being honored at their pre-K graduation, where they look to the bright future ahead of them.

WestLakesELC.com

O2B Kids Grand Opening in Avalon Park

The brand-new O2B Kids Preschool in Avalon Park celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 1. The facility is stunning, with spacious and inviting classrooms. The teachers and staff radiated warmth and enthusiasm. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed, promoting hands-on learning and social interaction. A wide range of enriching activities is available, from music and art to sports and outdoor play. This new O2B Kids location prioritizes safety and fosters a strong partnership with families.

15565 Golden Isle Blvd., Orlando o2bkids.com

After School Enrichment Guide

All Kids Spanish

Fun online Spanish program for kids (toddlers-5th grade). One-on-one and group programs available, plus after school and homeschool classes. Monday to Saturday openings. Beginners to advanced levels. We also provide activities for bilingual children to practice their Spanish language skills: art, STEM, virtual traveling, cooking and story time. Schedule a free trial today.

Allkidspanish.com

Aspire

Steam Studio

Aspire provides K-12 STEAM-Focused enrichment! We engage students in Hands-on, Collaborative, Project-Based, Fun-Ed! Students enjoy Science, Engineering, Life-Skills and the Arts weekly. Additionally, Aspire offers Cooking and a variety of Junior Career classes including Movie-Making, Animation, Broadcasting, Veterinary Medicine, Graphic, Fashion, & Interior Design and more!

5001 S. US Hwy 17-92, Casselberry 386-400-3044 • aspiresteamstudio.com

Big Dreams Bloom

Big Dreams Bloom is a Girls' Empowerment Program focused on learning the stories of influential women from HERstory through fun & educational STEAM activities. Inspiring elementary aged girls to make their own Big Dreams Bloom through our weekly classes, weekend workshops, school break camps, summer camps and more! Join in on all the fun with this community of curious and creative learners at our beautiful workshop space located within Monarch Learning Academy! Can’t wait to see you there!

1914 Edgewater Dr., Orlando bigdreamsbloom.com

A list of after-school programs in the Orlando area that are helping kids realize their full potential and enriching their daily lives.

Dance 360

Our mission is to create a safe and fun environment that enriches the lives of all the children who walk through our doors, whether they want to have a career in dance or just want to take a dance class for fun. Our studios will instill discipline, respect, confidence and joy, all the while learning the art of dance and the performing arts!

4867 New Broad St., Orlando dance360orlando.com

Florida Film Academy

If you are looking for exciting experiences for your kids and teens Florida Film Academy has you covered. Choose from movie making, drawing, art and animation, make up FX, coding, acting, performance art puppetry, and so much more! FFA's youth education program is designed to inspire students, add skills to their resume and introduce them to peers interested in similar subjects! Weekly classes, Homeschool and special events!

1261 Winter Garden Vineland Rd., Suite #250, Winter Garden FlFilmAcademy.com

Full Sail Labs

At Full Sail Labs, we aim to provide an innovative and engaging educational experience that transforms learning into creative expression. We do this through immersive courses, interactive workshops, and hands-on learning throughout the year. Our unique approach intertwines storytelling, technology, art and modern-day industry skills into a real-world, project-based education for kids and teens.

221 S. Semoran Blvd., Winter Park 407-673-6249 • fullsaillabs.com

Grow and Sing Studios

Experience the magic of Kindermusik at Grow and Sing Studios! Sing, move, bond, and grow together through joyful learning. Build confidence, strengthen connections, and support your child's milestones. Register your baby or toddler for a Kindermusik music & movement class. Join our 19th School Year, embark on an extraordinary musical journey, and secure your spot today!

Multiple locations in Central Florida growandsing.com • 407-970-2774

Hi-Lite Coaching + Consulting

The passionate and highly qualified team at Hi-Lite supports the success of teens and young adults as well as the caregivers, businesses, and schools that support them through group and private coaching, workshops, speaking engagements and more! We serve tweens to young adults from 5th grade to age 35 helping them create a scalable system of success they feel excited about! Reduce the power struggle and get engaged with Hi-Lite’s ETA program. 321-236-2053 • hilitecoaching.com

I am extremely grateful for the welcoming environment at LHP, created by encouraging peers and teachers. The demanding, yet rewarding, courses and athletic programs have taught me determination and commitment.

Kiddie Academy

At Kiddie Academy, we partner with you to raise joyful and prosperous kids! Our programs are specifically designed to ensure your children are academically ready to succeed, socially ready to build great relationships and emotionally ready to face the challenges of daily life. We’ve been doing this for over 30 years. This is our passion. Check out our nationally accredited preschool and school-aged programs!

Multiple locations in Central Florida  kiddieacademy.com

O2B Kids

At O2B Kids, we know that you want to raise happy, successful kids, and we are your partner! We understand that you want your kids to be academically ready to succeed, socially ready to build great friendships and emotionally ready to face life. These are the reasons we started our innovative, nationally accredited preschool and school-aged programs over 20 years ago.

Multiple locations in Central Florida o2bkids.com/find-a-location

Orlando City Boat Club

JUST SAY ROW! This season at Orlando City Boat Club, co-ed students age 12-18 can be a part of our competitive rowing team. Whether you're just learning to row or sharpening your skills, our medal-winning team wants you to continue our legacy of success! We work hard and have fun socially. Practices begin in August for high school and September for middle school. We row on beautiful Lake Fairview in College Park. Be a part of our growing team. Call 407-610-4769 for more information.

Primrose Schools

Primrose provides much more than childcare. As the leader in early education, teachers at Primrose schools go beyond math and science to nurture character development, life skills and social-emotional learning. Find your Primrose school today.

Multiple locations around Central Florida primroseschools.com

XL Soccer World

XL Soccer World is open for registration for our youth development program which is recreational soccer coached by XL coaches and open to all abilities. Each player received a weekly training session and a weekly game which are all indoors away from the heat and rain. Both XL locations in Winter Park and Lake Nona are available for this program. Go to Xlorlando.com or XLNona.com to register today.

BEST Newborn Care in FLORIDA

Babies are one of life’s most precious gifts, and every day, we are honored to help families welcome their new bundles of joy into the world. With the highest level NICU, the most locations and U.S. News & World Report ranking as the best children’s hospital for newborn care in the state, AdventHealth for Children’s care is unmatched.

Amy Smith Photography