Feb/Mar 2021Health Issue

LIVE | LOVE | PLAY

PLAYGROUND a lifestyle magazine for central florida's modern parents

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

FAMILY HEALTH & MEDICAL GUIDE Page 38

AWE-INSPIRING ACTIVITIES

YMCA's HEALTHY RESTART IN 2021 BE A FITNESS ROLE MODEL FOR YOUR KIDS GROUNDED FAMILY

The

Health Issue

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CONTENTS the

LIVE

Health issue

• 8 Publisher's Note • 10 The Talk of the Playground • 14 Tips for a Healthy Restart in 2021 • 16 Get Hooked on a Book • 18 Covid Anxiety in Kids

LOVE

• 20 Are You a Good Fitness Role Model for Your Kids?

• 24 Elite Boxing Fitness Center • 27 Grounded Family • 30 5 Awe-Inspiring Activities

for Central Florida Families

PLAY

• 36 Go PLAY • 40 See/Saw: Dinosaur Invasion, Private Adventures at OSC and XL Soccer World Lake Nona

• • • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION • • •

FAMILY HEALTH & MEDICAL GUIDE

Down the Rabbit Hole Photo: Creative City Project

Your guide to local providers of pampering services and products.

PAGE 38

Page 37

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4 PLAYGROUND Feb / Mar 2021

PLAYGROUND Online

#PLAYorlando

7 of the Best Foods for Your Child's Eyes

Weekend PLAY Guide Sign up for our weekly e-newsletters for a list of the best family-friendly events every weekend.

As parents, we know how important it is to provide our kids with the right foods to fuel their brains and bodies. Add one more reason to your list: eye health. Research shows that certain foods that are beneficial for your kid’s eyes, whether they have vision impairments or not.

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We know, we know. Getting your kid to eat is hard enough without the “weird” foods. Luckily, this article by Heidi Hertel (mom of three and founder of Fitz Frames) is geared at making your kid’s eyes healthier, not your life harder. Check out the article and recipes for quick and easy ways to incorporate beneficial foods into your kid’s diet: playgroundmagazine.com/best-foods-for-eye-health

FREE Digital Issues

All recent print issues are available in digital format on our website. Flip through the pages, download PDFs or share an article with friends, all for free at PlaygroundMagazine.com.

Tag us in your photos of your fam PLAYing around town @PLAYorlando

Social-Distanced Birthday Party Ideas https://playgroundmagazine.com/social-distancingbirthday-party-ideas

Grab & Go Round-Ups

PlaygroundMagazine.com/category/activities/roundups Busy parents can quickly hit our website for round-ups of all the cool places to PLAY. We've done the research and gathered the info you need all in one place! Rest assured, we've rounded up the best-of-the-best for your brood.

Photo: @xodanielleox

Here's a peek at some of our favorite round-ups: New Year, New Fun at the Library

The Best Family Memberships

Stay, Learn & PLAY: Virtual Experiences for Families During Social Distancing

Volunteer Opportunities for Kids

15 Things to Do in the Orlando Area While Avoiding Crowds Local Places to Get Stylish Mask for Kids Orlando Cooking Classes for Kids

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@PLAYmag

@PLAYorlando 6 PLAYGROUND Feb / Mar 2021

Orlando Farmers Markets High Adventures for Families Kids Eat Free in Orlando 5 Family-friendly Breweries in Orlando

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@ PlayMagCF

PUBLISHER'S NOTE

PLAYGROUND LIVE | LOVE | PLAY Heather Reneau Publisher & Creative Director heather@playgroundmagazine.com Brant Muekeley Financial Manager brant@playgroundmagazine.com Jessica Ventura Advertising Manager jessica@playgroundmagazine.com

Photo: Jessica Friend

Welcome to Playground, Version 2021!

Cortney Thekan Copy Editor cortney@playgroundmagazine.com

With a new year and fresh starts abound, I'd like to re-introduce myself to our readers and new parents in the Playground community. I'm Heather, an Oviedo resident, wife and mom of two kids — Kai (15) and Skyler (8).

I started this magazine 13 years ago, when Kai was a toddler. I am a graphic designer by trade and had previously worked in the magazine industry in Miami. Back in 2007, there was no regional parenting magazine in Orlando, even though there were more exciting things for families to do here than in any other city in Florida (in my opinion). I saw a need to connect local parents to all the amazing things to see, do and know in the greater Orlando area.

I've always had an entrepreneurial spirit, so my idea of starting a parenting magazine didn't seem too crazy to my tribe. With a family loan and a friend who was willing to join me in pursuing my big dreams, we set out to publish the first issue of Playground Magazine in March 2008 (right before the recession). We weathered that storm and seem to be also slowly and steadily getting through this current global health and financial crisis as well.

We are, and have always been, a group of local parents — your neighbors — working hard to produce the best regional parenting magazine that we possibly can. Thank you for supporting the Playground team and the advertisers who make it possible for us to distribute our publication to the local community for free. If this is your first time reading, welcome to Playground!

- Heather Reneau

Subscribe now to get all six issues of Playground Magazine sent to your home for only $14.99 annually.

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ABOUT THE COVER ...

During the pandemic, we've been partnering with local photographers to publish their beautiful images of local kids and families on our covers.

When we saw Marliese Marie's vibrant and PLAYful photo of Karlee, we knew it would be a great cover for our Feb/Mar Health Issue! It reminded us that there's plenty to feel light and carefree about this new year — like Dr. Martens being back in style (fun!). See more of Marliese's work or schedule a photo shoot at marliesecarmona.com or 321-662-0989.

PLAYGROUN a lifesty le maga zine for centra l florida 's mode rn paren ts

D

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021

FAMILY HEALTH & MEDICAL GUIDE Page 35

AWE-INSPIRING ACTIVITIES

YMCA's HEALTH Y RESTART IN 202 1 BE A FITNESS ROL MODEL FOR YOU E R KIDS GROUNDED FAMILY

The

Health Issue

8 PLAYGROUND Feb / Mar 2021

Jessica Friend Graphic Designer & Photographer jessica.friend@playgroundmagazine.com Alicia McKee Advertising Assistant alicia@playgroundmagazine.com Wendy Meyer Online & Events Editor wendy@playgroundmagazine.com Contributing Writers: Chris Karel, Kristen Manieri, Stephanie Lum, Matthew R. Gomez, Sandi Schwartz, Wendy Meyer Contributing Photographers: Alicia McKee Amanda Murphy Heather Reneau Jessica Friend Photo Design Marliese Carmona 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.

Calling All PLAYers...

Stay connected between issues by signing up for our free Weekend PLAYguide e-newsletter at playgroundmagazine.com or on Facebook @PLAYGROUNDMagazine.

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The Talk of the Playground

Words by Wendy Meyer @LittleRebelMom

The inside scoop on what’s happening around town for Orlando families!

Big Dreams Bloom Local teacher creates virtual STEM and design thinking program for girls Over the past two decades, Emily Blomquist has taught a variety of subjects at Windermere Prep, Park Maitland and Lake Highland Prep, including STEM and design thinking. During the pandemic, Emily saw that parents and kids working from home were seeking new opportunities to learn, so she created a virtual program for young girls. Big Dreams Bloom, a STEM program focused on empowering girls, explores the lives of influential women — from artists to activists, explorers to engineers — who followed their dreams and changed the world. The class follows up with book club-style discussions and complete science, art and maker-style STEM projects as a learning extension. Program supplies are delivered to the home in carefully curated surprise activity bags. The program has students enrolled all over the U.S. and most recently in Canada. Check it out at bigdreamsbloom.com.

Discovered: Planet Play This new, interactive play-and-learn space for kids ages 2 to 12 has opened at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Children will enjoy learning fun facts as they play among replicas of the planets in our solar system. Kids can also map a constellation, climb a worm hole, walk on Saturn’s rings, slide through an asteroid field and more. PLAY Tip: While kids play, parents can enjoy a coffee, beer or wine in a comfortable lounge while watching their tiny explorers learn about space. kennedyspacecenter.com

NEW! Chubby Cheek Cookie Co. Local mom, Megan Gardner, turned the quarantine and stayat-home order into an opportunity! She used her love of baking to make some silver lining in a dark time. Chubby Cheek Cookie Co. is a delicious and decadent home-based cookie bakery with delivery routes in Windermere and Ocoee as well as a partnership with Foxtail Coffee Co. in SODO for all of your downtown Orlando cookie needs.

Check out their Instagram @chubbycheekcookieco for more info and ordering information.

10 PLAYGROUND Feb / Mar 2021

TALK OF THE PLAYGROUND

Baby & Me Story Stroll We love this new program from the Orlando Repertory Theatre for your newest family member!

Baby & Me Story Stroll combines sensory activities and creative play in the safe, outdoor setting of Loch Haven Park. Bring your stroller and mask up to enjoy a 30-minute, socially-distanced walk around the beautiful park with your baby or toddler (up to age 2). You are your baby’s first teacher, and The REP has great tools and playtime techniques to share with you to encourage learning and bonding with your baby. For just $10 per stroll, you can drop in or make a reservation for as many sessions as you like. Story Strolls are on Tuesday mornings from 11–11:30 a.m. through March. orlandorep.com/show/baby-me-story-stroll

Calling All Slime Lovers!

iStock.com | jarabee123

The Slime Factory at The Florida Mall is where it's at for gooey-gooey good times. In this super fun lab, children become scientists wearing lab coats and protective glasses while mixing up superstar slimemaker Maddie Rae’s superior recipes. Aspiring slime makers will have a blast decorating their creations at the topping station with a wide selection of charms and accessories. Slime lovers can also experience the Gooey Slime Pool and capture memories in the photo booth.

At the end of the experience, each child will receive a certificate and take their slime home to enjoy with the whole family! theslimefactory.com/floridamall

Barre in the Park Feeling healthy is so important these days, so let's get out and get moving with Barre 3!

Barre 3 is offering socially-distanced, outdoor classes to stay fit and feel strong during these ever-changing times. Barre in the Park classes are offered in both 45-minute and 60-minute lengths. They include strength training, cardio and mindfulness to leave you feeling balanced in body and empowered from within. Bring a yoga mat and weights, a b3 core ball and a b3 band if possible, but they are not necessary to get a great workout. Classes meet near the Barre 3 studio at Shady Park, West Meadow Park and Central Park. Classes are limited to 20 clients, and masks must be worn before and after class. online.barre3.com/studio-locations/winter-park

12 PLAYGROUND Feb / Mar 2021

TAKE AT HOME

EDUCATION

At Wild Florida, you can be face-to-face with Walter, our 18 ft. reticulated giraffe, take a “slothie” with one of our two-toed sloths, or hangout with the world’s only pair of breeding albino alligators!

No matter which encounter you choose, the adventure is up to you.

PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE AT

WILDFL.com!

(407) 957-3135 3301 Lake Cypress Rd. Kenansville, FL 34739

LIVE

UN TOUR

TOR OF HEALTHY EATING

d spending time with family. uits and vegetables available mbat weight gain and ensure Join Chef Gary this summer

Tips for a Healthy Restart in 2021 As we turn the page on 2020 and look forward with optimism to all that a new year brings, now is a perfect time to RESTART your wellness journey. Below are the YMCA's three simple steps you can take with your family to grow healthier and have a great start to your RENEW year!

1. STAY ACTIVE

SECRET BETTER MostTO of us have had to adjust or let go of our routines over the past ERALL HEALTH year due to all of the changes we’ve experienced, including our wellness

greens, grains and nuts. routines.

The safety and convenience of staying home, working from : Hummushome and Veggies and taking school classes from home can contribute to becoming

more can 12 lead to excessive weight gain and other AY | AUGUST 7 sedentary.

SATURDAYThis | AUGUST side the good news is that no matter where you M – 12:00 unhealthy PM 12:15 PMeffects—but – 1:15 PM

are, youDowntown can take aOrlando positive step today. How? By literally taking a step.

YMCA ndermere Rd. YMCA And then another step. And another. Set aside a few minutes per day Garden, FL 34787 433 N. Mills Ave. to get up and move, whether that’s inside your home or somewhere 6.6430 Orlando, FL 32803 safe outdoors.

Find a place you like and take a few positive steps each 407.896.6901 SDAY | AUGUST day. 9You’ll feel better and can start to increase your pace and distance AM – 11:00 AM over time. Changing small factors like the time of day you’re active or

lle YMCA the place you exercise can add more variety and help you stay healthy arrison St. and feeling well. e, FL 32780 7.8924

If you want to revamp or create your wellness plan and need help, consider working with a virtual personal trainer. That way, you’re able to talk with a certified expert who can evaluate your current routine YOU ASKING and make necessary adjustments to help you reach your goals. If you’re UR SNACK THE looking for something more casual, consider getting an accountability HT QUESTIONS? partner at the place you normally exercise. Either way you go, the hunger strikes be ready to strike back. benefits of your sharing yourtoprogress what questions to ask snacks make with someone else include: • Avoiding burnout and being inspired to try something new ey have your best interests at heart.

• Avoiding overexerting yourself and ensuring you’re getting AY | AUGUST 14 enough WEDNESDAY rest | AUGUST 16 M – 6:30 PM 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM • Celebrating your achievements and milestones with a friend

las Williams

Oviedo YMCA Red Bugin Lakevirtual Rd. With the7900 increase learning, it’s critically important that ngwoodFL 32765 children Oviedo, still remain active by taking screen breaks. Consider registering ary Rd. 407.359.3606 your child for a youth enrichment or sports program that follows ary, FL 32746 1.8944 CDC guidance.

These activities will help kids improve their technical FRIDAY | AUGUST 18 10:00 AM – 11:00healthy AM skills while promoting life lessons like leadership, team work, AY | AUGUST 15 Golden Triangle YMCA and creativity. An example is the YMCA sportsmanship M – 12:00 communication, PM 1465 David Walker Rd.

Youth Sports and Camps programs, which nurture friendships in a safe

a County YMCA Tavares, FL 32778 atmosphere. You can also turn family activities into a chance . Mabbetteand St. fun 352.343.1144 mee, FL 34741 to stay healthy. Children can accompany you on walks in the park and 7.7413

exercise right along with you.

2. EAT HEALTHY While it might seem impossible, maintaining a healthy weight and enjoying foods we like at the same time can happen! Changes in our habits take time, so be kind to yourself and trust the process. Remember, eating healthy is not a punishment — in fact, it’s a reward for your body.

In exchange, your body will care for you and keep you healthy. Eating healthy also doesn’t mean we need to have a lack of flavorful foods.

Adding in fresh and dried herbs and spices will enhance flavor and may even increase metabolism, fat burning and feelings of fullness.

So, how can we begin a journey that leads us to better overall health?

Here are a few tips: • Start slowly • Eat breakfast every day • Eat more nuts and seeds • Taste your food • Add more color to your diet Chef Gary Appelsies, the YMCA of Central Florida Director of Healthy Eating, says, “Ideally, the food you eat should delight your senses. Go slow, learn to enjoy your food and try something new once a week.

Eat well and stay healthy… Cheers to a happy and healthy new year!”

You can find Chef Gary’s healthy eating recipes on the Y’s website at ymcacf.org.

3. STAY CONNECTED Another way to stay healthy is to stay connected with loved ones, friends and community groups, starting with your family. Conversations around a family meal are a great time to gather together and stay close.

Here are a few questions you can ask to help get a conversation started: • What was your favorite part of the day?

• What is your favorite thing to do with the family?

• What is the funniest thing that happened to you or made you smile today?

It’s just as important to take the time to grow important relationships as part of your emotional and mental well-being as it is to stay well physically. Look for little ways to show you care each day. Don’t forget to be kind to yourself and take a few minutes to slow down and unwind.

One final step you can take today to grow healthier in 2021 is to sign up for the Y’s free neighborhood membership. You’ll receive free healthy tips and recipes, plus activities and virtual events throughout the year. Simply go to ymcacf.org/membership to get started.

Let’s stay healthy together this RENEW year!

14 PLAYGROUND Feb / Mar 2021

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BABY & ME STORY STROLL

Selected Mornings this spring !

Ages infant - 2 years Spend 30 minutes in beautiful Loch Haven Park, strolling socially-distanced with your littlest one! Our teaching artist will accompany you with creative play and sensory activities. Drop-in attendance is welcome, but RSVPs are best! Reserve your spot for just $10 today!

www.orlandorep.com/camps-classes

LIVE

Get Hooked on a Book Orange County Library System presents the NEA Big Read virtual program for kids based on Hope Jahren’s Lab Girl Words by Stephanie Lum, Assistant Manager, Melrose Center, Orange County Library System Photo by Amanda Murphy

“People are like plants.

They grow toward the light.”

The NEA Big Read is a program of the

– Lab Girl

our communities and ourselves through the

National Endowment for the Arts designed to broaden our understanding of our world, joy of sharing a good book. Showcasing a diverse range of contemporary titles that reflect many different voices and perspectives, the NEA Big Read aims to inspire conversation and discovery. Orange County Library System, in partnership with Valencia College, is one of 84 not-for-profit organizations to receive a grant to host an NEA Big Read campaign for 2020-2021. The two organizations are teaming up this spring to celebrate Lab Girl, a memoir by awardwinning American geobiologist Hope Jahren.

Readers of all ages are invited to participate in virtual events and activities that honor the themes of the book:

OCLS will host Big Read events virtually to ensure participation is safe for library customers and staff. All library locations are currently open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for essential services, including materials return, grab-and-go service and computer usage for up to one hour. For the latest updates on library services and information on using the library from home, visit ocls.info/ information-regarding-covid-19.

• The campaign kicks off with a virtual discussion about where curiosity can lead with The Power of Curiosity with Emily Graslie, former Chief Curiosity Correspondent for the Chicago Field Museum and creator of the Brainscoop YouTube Channel.

• Library staff will host book discussions and offer a free copy of Lab Girl to all attendees to keep for their personal libraries.

• Lab Girl author Hope Jahren will offer a virtual keynote from Oslo, Norway, on April 17 to discuss her work as an author and scientist.

16 PLAYGROUND Feb / Mar 2021

• Parents with early learners are invited to take a stroll along a StoryWalk, an educational opportunity that invites families to share a book posted along a popular walking path in the community.

• Kids will find take-and-make craft kits at library locations and may attend programs on a wide range of subjects, including conservation with Green Thumbs, Dirty Feet, physics with Roller Coaster Physics, botany with Powerful Pollinators and the power of mindfulness with A World of Pausabilities.

• Teens are invited to attend the Women in STEM Panel, which will bring women from across the spectrum of science, technology, engineering and math to share what inspired them, what they are doing now and how they got there.

• Local chefs will offer recipes and cooking tips with plant-based recipes, while local farmers teach the basics of starting an herb garden at home. Additional programs for adults on composting, mushroom cultivation and Florida habitats and ecology will run throughout the series from March 28 through April 24.

• The campaign culminates in a Gardening Festival day of workshops with programming from local organizations.

Visit ocls.info/bigread for details on book discussions, additional recommended reads, and reading challenges as well as a complete listing of NEA Big Read programming.

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SPONSORED CONTENT

Covid Anxiety in Kids Children battling ‘COVID fatigue’ may experience anxiety in different ways.

Understanding signs of stress are essential to helping children cope with the pandemic.

Words by Matthew R. Gomez

While the COVID-19 pandemic has largely affected older, more vulnerable portions of our population, the virus and anxieties surrounding its presence are taking a toll on children as well.

Now a full year after the start of the global pandemic, pediatric specialists have noted the mental strain on children caused by worry and lack of normative behavior and social interaction — the common patterns of home, school and play.

Parental job losses, illnesses among family members and friends and disruptions in school and sports schedules bring confusion and additional stress for young people.

Many are unable to cope with all the changes.

Dr. Michael Westerveld, pediatric neuropsychologist and psychologist at AdventHealth for Children, recognizes the emotional and mental effects COVID-19 is having on children and adults. He said understanding the signs of stress and anxiety are essential to helping children cope with the pandemic.

“COVID-19 is emotionally draining, and parents need to be aware of the potential negative effects on kids,” he said.

Westerveld suggested a sense of “COVID fatigue” exists surrounding the virus, and it’s having a yo-yo effect on emotions for all ages.

“Worries about the virus weigh heavily on our emotions, especially children,” Westerveld said. “Many adults don’t know how to express their own emotions surrounding COVID-19, so you can imagine what it must feel like to be dealing with it as a child.”

This article is based on an interview with Dr. Michael Westerveld, Medical Director of Neuropsychology for AdventHealth for Children, which appeared on the AdventHealth Morning Briefing (Oct. 29, 2020).

Unlike flu season and other annual health concerns, the threat of COVID-19 is not isolated to a few months on the calendar.

“We are used to every year knowing there is a flu season coming up or that an allergy season is coming up, but there is a time limit,” Westerveld said. “COVID-19 has no 18 PLAYGROUND Feb / Mar 2021

time limit, and now there is an increased uncertainty and lack of control that contributes to this ambient level of stress all around us.”

Each child may experience stress in different ways, he said, and that can make things particularly frustrating for parents.

“Kids will often show their stress, their feelings and frustrations through behaviors rather than through emotions,” Westerveld said. “Most emotions have a cognitive and physical component. Kids who are younger and who have not developed their cognitive skills may still feel it physically and act out.”

Signs of stress in children, according to Westerveld, may include tantrums, aggressive behavior (like bullying) and changes in physical habits like sleep or eating behaviors.

Additionally, some children may struggle with schoolwork during the pandemic or refuse to concentrate on studies when they have the opportunity. “Let them know that it’s OK to talk about it,” he said.

Dr. Westerveld offers these tips for parents to help children deal with the ill-effects of COVID fatigue: • Provide them with structure. Give them opportunities for extra-curricular activities, whether they are learning from home or at school. Stick to a reliable routine.

• Be consistent and direct. Avoid ambiguity in your instructions to safeguard children from the virus.

• Model good behavior. Wear a mask often and stay physically distant to help mitigate the spread of the virus at home and elsewhere.

subscribe now For only $14.99 per year, get Playground Magazine's bimonthly issues OPEN mailed directly to your home. This is an easy way to support a local, independent, woman-owned business that promotes other small businesses in your community.

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LIVE

are you a good Fitness Role Model for Your Kids?

As we all know, being a parent is the most important job in the world. Our children look up to us for guidance on everything in life. One way that you can be a positive role model for your kids is in the area of fitness. Staying fit is critical to our health and well-being, including our mental health and happiness. We can help shape our children’s views on exercise by modeling healthy behavior and making fitness a fun part of our family’s daily routine.

Words by Sandi Schwartz

20 PLAYGROUND Feb / Mar 2021

Why Exercise Is Important for Managing Stress and Anxiety Experts have found a clear link between exercise and stress reduction. In a recent study, Harvard University scientists concluded that, “Regular aerobic exercise has a unique capacity to exhilarate and relax, to provide stimulation and calm, to counter depression and dissipate stress.” According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, studies show that for some people consistent exercise can be just as effective as medication to reduce the symptoms of anxiety. Other research shows that physically active people have lower rates of anxiety than those who do not exercise. In one study, researchers found that those who got regular vigorous exercise were 25% less likely to develop depression or an anxiety disorder over the next five years.

Here are several ways in which exercise helps reduce stress and anxiety: Produces endorphins.

When we exercise, our body releases feel-good neurotransmitters called endorphins. These chemicals in our brain act as natural painkillers, making us feel better and less stressed. Endorphins are responsible for the natural high we get from a hard workout.

Reduces stress hormones.

Exercise reduces the level of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol in the body, helping us feel calmer.

Minimizes fatigue.

Exercise improves blood flow and our body’s ability to use oxygen efficiently. These changes in our brain then reduce fatigue and improve alertness, concentration and cognitive function. This helps us when we are stressed out because we are depleted and need to return to a more balanced level of energy. When we are stressed, many nerves in our brain and throughout our body are impacted. Scientists conclude that if our body feels better, then our mind will also feel better.

Improves self-esteem.

Behavioral factors also contribute to the emotional benefits of exercise. When we gain strength and begin to see a difference in our body, we feel better about ourselves and become happier and more confident. Feeling better about ourselves shifts our focus to positive thoughts and away from fear and anxiety.

Provides a fun distraction.

One of the best parts about exercise is that it gives us a time to take a fun break from the stresses in our daily lives. Whether you are jogging to your favorite upbeat music or socializing with friends on the tennis court, your mind is distracted and you can just have a good time.

Makes sleeping easier.

According to Mayo Clinic, exercise can also improve how we sleep. This is great news for those suffering from insomnia due to stress and anxiety.

Encourages mindfulness.

A great bonus of exercise is that it provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy a mindful moment. While we work out, we can fully engage in the present moment instead of letting our mind run wild with worries. To get the best result, experts suggest doing rhythmic activities that engage the whole body like running, walking, swimming, dancing, rowing or climbing. Helpguide.org suggests, “As you move, instead of continuing to focus on your thoughts, focus on the sensations in your limbs and how your breathing complements your movement. If your mind wanders to other thoughts, gently return to focusing on your breathing and movement. If walking or running, for example, focus on each step — the sensation of your feet touching the ground, the rhythm of your breath while moving and the feeling of the wind against your face.”

21 PLAYGROUND Feb / Mar 2021

LIVE

HOW TO BE A GOOD FITNESS ROLE MODEL It’s so important that we play actively with our kids from a young age and that we consistently exercise in front of them (and sometimes with them) to show them how important physical fitness is. From going on family bike rides to coaching one of their sports teams, there are so many helpful ways for you to be a fitness role model to your children throughout their lives.

Here are some more ideas to get you moving: Go for a hike outdoors.

Not only are walks and hikes wonderful, safe exercise that the entire family can enjoy, they are also an opportunity to connect to the beauty of nature to bring you a sense of calm. Try adding some fun to your family hikes by turning them into a race or scavenger hunt and by venturing to new parks and trails in your area and while on vacation.

Take a mommy and me yoga class together.

Yoga offers so many incredible benefits to both you and our children, including balance, strength training, time for inner focus and an opportunity to connect with our bodies in ways we aren’t used to. Sign up for a yoga class that you can take together. Pop in a video or load an app so you can do yoga as a family in your living room or backyard.

Make exercise a priority even in bad weather.

Sandi Schwartz is a freelance writer, blogger and mother of two. She has written extensively about parenting, wellness and environmental issues. Find her at happysciencemom.com.

Show your kids that you still go on your morning run even if it’s not sunny outside. On days when it’s cold or rainy, set up your fitness routine indoors and get your kids involved. Put on a workout video and have them join in. There are also lots of fun ways to use your indoor space to get everyone moving. Some of the easiest exercises to perform indoors include jumping rope and calisthenics like pushups and jumping jacks. Put on some peppy music and play freeze dance or have a hula hoop contest. Before you know it, you will all be working up a sweat!

Give sports-related gifts.

Another way to make fitness a priority in your home is to choose gifts like workout clothes, sports equipment and how-to books about sports during birthday and holiday time. You can also choose some tickets for a sporting event and make it a fun family outing to cheer on your team together.

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Why does autism research need your DNA?

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Why does autism Your DNA could hold the answer that research need sparks the next genetic discovery for your DNA? autism. SPARK is the largest genetic study of autism ever, and together, we can find more answers. Join us.

Your DNA could hold the answer that sparks the next

genetic discovery for autism. SPARK is the largest genetic study of autism ever, and together, we can find more answers. Join us.

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LIVE

Elite Boxing Fitness Center’s Youth Program Walk into Elite Boxing Fitness Center in Oviedo in the after-school hours, and you'll see a room full of boys and girls throwing hooks and jabs during the Youth Boxing program.

Children as young as age 7 learn not only the physical aspects of boxing but also important life skills such as courage, kindness and bravery.

15 Benefits of Elite Boxing’s Youth Program: 1. Learn self-defense 2. Increase focus and listening skills 3. Practice self-control & good decision making 4. Practice memorization & retention 5. Learn self-discipline & responsibility 6. Practice physical fitness & healthy living 7. Improve coordination & motor skills 8. Increase self-esteem & build confidence 9. Discuss discipline & good behavior at home and school 10. Anti-bullying education 11. Multiple coaches give each child personal attention 12. Social skills & friendship opportunities 13. Laugh & have fun 14. Be a part of a team 15. Mental health discussion & training by a pediatric nurse

Elite Boxing Fitness Center is a family-owned business that has been teaching the art of boxing since 2012. Dorian Beaupierre, owner and head coach, retired as a professional boxer in 2006, but his passion to keep the sport alive inspired the development of Elite Boxing Fitness Center. “Whether your objective is to improve your fitness level, learn a new sport or compete, we will help you to become the best version of yourself,” says Dorian.

Workouts are designed to simulate the routines of a professional boxer. Youth classes also include lessons for students that encourage acts of kindness, tools for conquering fears and emotional growth. Ayanna Beaupierre, co-owner, is a pediatric nurse and educator who focuses on the mental health aspect of Elite’s youth program. She uses the Be Strong and the Brooks Gibbs approaches to educate young boxers about bullying, depression, anger management and building resilience within a variety of social settings. “I think it is very important to connect everything they’re doing with something that’s tangible on the outside,” says Ayanna.

Between growls and heavy breathing during strikes and blocks, the children wear a smile that says they’re enjoying the activity. It is a high-energy and action-packed sport, perhaps perfect for the child who has a lot of zest and rarely sits still. It could also be ideal for children who need a little coaxing and confidence to come out of their shell.

Ayanna explains their catch phrase “easy work” as something the coaches use to keep the kids motivated and confident in their ability to achieve anything they put their mind toward accomplishing, whether it be a test at school or a competition in the ring. The growth mindset that is included in Elite Boxing’s Youth Program encourages mental grit.

Like all sports, boxing requires participants to follow safety precautions to help prevent injuries.

The most common injuries experienced in youth boxing are hand injuries. Ayanna, who is a practicing pediatric nurse, says safety instruction at Elite Boxing Fitness Center includes teaching students how to properly wrap their hands, how to properly wear the gloves and how to speak up if something doesn’t feel right.

At Elite Boxing Fitness Center, the goal is to introduce young boxers to the fundamentals of the sport in a safe and comfortable environment and to inspire kindness and courage rather than to simply showcase power and brute strength.

Elite Boxing Fitness Center • 1065 E. Broadway St., #3, Oviedo Ages 7+; private lessons available for children as young as age 5 eliteboxingoviedo.com

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Grounded Family RITUALS AND HABITS FOR STAYING CENTERED IN TURBULENT TIMES Words by Kristen Manieri

If 2020 has taught us anything, it’s that we never know what’s around the corner. As tempting as it may be to raise a middle finger to the previous year and soldier on, there are important lessons to be gleaned about how we fared in 2020, including lessons about resilience.

Let’s be clear — that’s not a process of judging ourselves or others, laying blame or finding fault. Instead, it’s an honest audit of our capacity to bounce back, pivot, maintain optimism and keep ourselves resourced in the face of nonstop uncertainty, distress and calamity.

I learned a lot about myself and my family in 2020. Specifically, I can see that the rituals and habits we had in place before 2020 combined with the ones we instituted when the poop hit the fan helped us to stay steady on the corona coaster.

Resilience isn’t fixed. While we all have a capacity to bounce back, there are things we can do to help ourselves and our family bounce back better, quicker and more consistently. As you look to 2021, consider incorporating some of these rituals and habits for a more resilient year ahead.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Kristen Manieri is a writer, mindfulness teacher and coach. As the host of the 60 Mindful Minutes podcast, she interviews authors and thought leaders about what it means to live a more connected, conscious and intentional life. She shares her life with her two daughters, her husband, and their three cats in Orlando.

Kristen created the 60 Mindful Minutes Practice Guide & 28-Day Workbook to help others establish a daily ritual of reflection and meditation. You can purchase it online at kristenmanieri.com/product/practice-guide-28-day-workbook.

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Grounded Family RITUALS AND HABITS FOR STAYING CENTERED IN TURBULENT TIMES Get Outside Every Day I’ve lost count of the number of people who have started the ritual of a daily walk outside since the beginning of the pandemic. It’s an excellent idea. You’ll not only get a dose of vitamin D (much-needed for immune health), but the fresh air will do wonders for your state of mind. Our deal at the Manieri household is that whoever is on the 7:30 a.m. walk gets a warm breakfast made for them when we get back. My 12-year-old grumbles some days, but she’s always the one happily chattering away to me as we stroll. It’s connective, it’s exercise and it’s 30 minutes of looking at a wide-open sky instead of a screen.

Practice Intermittent News and Social Media Fasting We’ve all heard that setting aside blocks of time without eating helps our digestive system rest and reset. The same is true for taking a rest from news and social media. Our nervous system needs a break from all the dopamine hits and anxiety spikes that are constantly served to us in our feeds and apps. Plus, when we take a break, we notice a visceral change in how we feel. In 24/6: The Power of Unplugging One Day a Week, Tiffany Shlain shares the benefits of disconnecting and making ourselves less available to the world in order to connect deeply with our family and ourselves.

“Living 24/6 feels like magic and here’s why: it seems to defy the laws of physics, as it both slows down time and gives us more of it,” Shlain writes.

Start a Daily Centering Practice A few years ago, I began the practice of getting up a little earlier so I could spend the first 30 to 60 minutes of the day by myself in silence and reflection. It quickly became my number one mindfulness habit, and I attribute most of my resilience and steadiness to this daily ritual.

My morning practice includes any variation of meditation, journaling and inspired reading, but it’s less about what I do and more about the act of setting aside time just for my inner health before the obligations of the day ahead take hold. When I slowly, quietly and deliberately begin my day, I’m simply able to navigate life better.

28 PLAYGROUND Feb / Mar 2021

Create Gratitude Lists During Meals Whatever your main family meal is each day, add a dose of thankfulness to it by creating a gratitude ritual. We have a shell that we pass around for each person’s turn, or we simply have each person share three things that are making them smile at the moment. Our brains aren’t wired for positivity. As author Rick Hanson puts it, we’re like Velcro for negative experiences and Teflon for positive ones. That’s why we have to be deliberate and intentional if we want to see what’s good in our world. A few tips: start small (one gratitude per person), gamify it (vote on the best response and give the winner the biggest slice of dessert) and be sure to model it. If mom or dad moan about it, the kids definitely won’t hop on board.

Try New Things One of the ways families get a huge dose of novelty and add freshness to their lives is by traveling. Thanks to the pandemic, most of our travel plans have been canceled or postponed indefinitely. If you’re a family used to traveling, you probably felt this loss deeply. I sure did. But while novelty is inherently built into most travel, it’s not the only way to feel the rejuvenating effects of newness. The same “wow” centers of our brain are lit up by learning new things, tasting new foods or even taking a new route to the grocery store. When you bring some intention to adding new things to your life, you’ll find the opportunities are endless.

Start a Box Breathing Practice While helpful, the idea to start a regular meditation practice is often met with resistance. Meditation seems impossibly hard to some, and young kids might not understand. Try instead to teach your family a breathing practice that’s less about clearing the mind and more about tuning into breath. It can be done together in about 5 minutes, perhaps as part of a bedtime ritual. I love the box breathing method. Simply count to 4 on the inhalation, hold for 4, count to 4 for the exhalation, and then hold for 4 before starting over. In just 5 minutes, the parasympathetic system kicks in (your rest and digest system), and you immediately begin to feel calmer and more aware.

No doubt the year ahead will be filled with unexpected turbulence. We have never known what lies ahead. And while we can’t predict, we can prepare by bolstering our resilience. Rituals and habits that keep your family steady and sturdy are your best defense against any storms to come.

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LOVE

5 Awe-Inspiring Activities for Central Florida Families Staying safe is prudent, but seeking out awe is critical to your family’s well-being too. Here are some of the best ways we’ve found to do both.

Words by Chris Karel

30 PLAYGROUND Feb / Mar 2021

Research suggests that experiencing awe together tightens family bonds and can make us not only happier but more generous and humble. Fortunately, awesomeness comes in all shapes and sizes around here, from a vibrant caterpillar munching on a leaf to a celestial display that puts theme park fireworks to shame. Here are five of our favorite awe-inspiring (and socially distanced) things to do and see around Central Florida:

1 ORLANDO WETLANDS PARK: It’s ironic that one of the best places to immerse yourself in our local flora and fauna is man-made, but you’ll quickly forget that as you bike or hike past sunbathing alligators and flocks of bright-pink roseate spoonbills. Bring your camera — when you reach the top of Oyler Outlook, you’ll be glad you did.

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LOVE

2 BLUE SPRINGS STATE PARK: In contrast to the wide-open spaces of Orlando Wetlands Park, the narrow spring run at Blue Springs wraps you in a verdant blue-green blanket.

Awe-inspiring year-round, the manatees that congregate at Blue Springs in the winter make a kayak or SUP tour bucket-list worthy. Just be sure to get there early to beat the crowds!

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3 PRE-DAWN ROCKET LAUNCH: Night time rocket launches from Cape Canaveral are breathtaking, but when the familiar trail of white rocket exhaust is backlit by a sun that hasn’t yet peaked over the horizon, you’ll be treated to one of the most aweinspiring and otherworldly sights on Earth.

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LOVE

4 ORLANDO FROM ABOVE: While you can’t catch a ride on one of those rockets yet, there are plenty of other options around town for getting your awe with some altitude. At 400 feet, The Wheel at ICON Park is the second-tallest observation wheel in the United States. One full rotation in your private capsule will take 22 minutes. The Aerophile tethered balloon at Disney

Springs is another leisurely choice that also ascends to 400 feet. Making the trip on a spacious, outdoor deck slung below the balloon just gives this ride a little extra thrill factor. Finally, for the adrenaline junkies, there’s the world’s tallest swing ride. The Orlando StarFlyer takes you up and back down a 450-foot tower while swinging you around at speeds up to 45 mph.

34 PLAYGROUND Feb / Mar 2021

5 SPEED + WATER = AWESOME: Combine the rush of the StarFlyer with the water, wildlife and scenery of our first two entries in a loud, rowdy airboat ride at Wild Florida, south of St. Cloud. Prefer to ride in the water rather than just on it? Try water skiing and wakeboarding at Nona Adventure Park or the Orlando Watersports Complex.

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LOVE

GO PLAY!

Family Events Calendar

Down the Rabbit Hole

Compiled by Wendy Meyer

From the theme parks to your backyard, we want to share some of our favorite events to get out and discover Central Florida with the whole family.

THEME PARK FUN MARDI GRAS: INTERNATIONAL FLAVORS OF CARNAVAL February 6–March 28 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS Mardi Gras served up a whole new way.

Experience an international food fest with cuisine and entertainment inspired by international Carnaval celebrations. Plus enjoy spectacular floats on display, street entertainment, music, beads and more throughout the theme park. Valid park admission required. universalorlando.com

March 3July 5

International Flower and Garden Festival

SEVEN SEAS FOOD FESTIVAL SEAWORLD Select dates, February 5–May 9 Sip and sample your way around the world with exciting flavors, craft beer and wine selections, and more. Features live performances. seaworld.com EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS January 8–February 22 EPCOT Immerse yourself in the magic of art with this enchanting event that celebrates all things colorful and creative. disneyworld.disney.go.com INTERNATIONAL FLOWER AND GARDEN FESTIVAL March 3–July 5 EPCOT Blossoming once again, this spring event is a fun-filled destination for guests of every age. Connect with nature while wandering through family-friendly exhibits and gardens geared specifically to kids. Valid park admission required. disneyworld.disney.go.com FAMILY FUN SCAVENGER HUNT FEATURING MR. RICHARD AND THE POUND HOUNDS LIVE! February 13 MEAD BOTANICAL GARDEN Enjoy a day hunting around the gardens and stay to PLAY with Orlando’s beloved children’s entertainer, Mr. Richard and the Pound Hounds! mrrichard.net

36 PLAYGROUND Feb / Mar 2021

FRONTYARD FESTIVAL Now through May DR. PHILLIPS CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS Music and performing arts bringing all the families to the yard! Enjoy socially distanced private box seating arrangements that will make you feel like a VIP every time you enjoy a performance at this 6-month festival of music, art and more. drphillipscenter.org/events/frontyard-festival 4TH ANNUAL SANFORD PORCHFEST February 27 HISTORIC DOWNTOWN SANFORD Get out and PLAY at the ultimate porch party! Sanford Porchfest is a FREE grassroots festival that takes place on the fourth Saturday of every February in the historic residential downtown of Sanford. Enjoy food, music, art and family-friendly fun! sanfordporchfest.org OTRONICON February 12–15 ORLANDO SCIENCE CENTER Enjoy this inspiring STEM expo that will have your whole family smiling. This annual event brings the best and brightest in the world of technology, science and engineering right to your fingertips! osc.org/otronicon MEGACON 2021 March 18–21 ORANGE COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER Four days of fun-filled, family-friendly fan culture! Don your favorite mask or cosplay with your face coverings and have a blast at this annual comic con! facebook.com/events/2470721126526161

DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE Wednesdays through Sundays, February 6–March 14 MEAD BOTANICAL GARDEN The Creative City Project is at it again. Down the Rabbit Hole takes you and your whole family on an outdoor and interactive journey with Alice and the entire cast of characters we all know and love. Enjoy this innovative theatrical experience that brings storybook characters to life!

PLAY TIP: You will need to walk quite a bit, so baby-wearing for your littlest loves may be better than lugging a stroller through non-paved surfaces. creativecityproject.com

VIRTUAL EVENTS 2021 VIRTUAL DISNEY PRINCESS HALF-MARATHON WEEKEND 2021 February 18–21 Your favorite marathon weekend looks a little different this year, and we are ready for some runDisney fun! Adventure awaits during the Virtual 2021 Disney Princess Half-Marathon Weekend. Join fan-favorite Disney princesses to celebrate the traits that embody runners: courage, strength and confidence! It’s an enchanting occasion for princesses and princes of all ages, featuring virtual events for all skill levels and coveted regal medals. rundisney.com/events PRINCESS AND THE FROG STORYTIME Tuesday, February 16, 1 p.m.

Let’s go down to New Orleans and celebrate Tiana, Naveen, Louis and Ray with culture-inspired stories, songs and crafts.

Recommended for ages 3–5. attend.ocls.info/event/4776004 KAMALA HARRIS: SUPERHEROES ARE EVERYWHERE Wednesday, February 17, 11 a.m.

There were superheroes everywhere in Vice President Kamala Harris’s life. Can you find them in yours? Recommended for ages 3–5. attend.ocls.info/event/4744677 MAYOR BUDDY’S BOOK CLUB END OF BOOK PARTY Thursday, February 18, 4 p.m.

Join Orlando Mayor Buddy’s Book Club to celebrate the completion of our latest book, Marcus Vegas Doesn’t Speak Spanish

by Pablo Cartaya. Recommended for ages 8–12. attend.ocls.info/event/4754844

Through April 18 DINOSAUR INVASION HARRY P. LEU GARDENS January 18–April 18 The ever-popular Dino Invasion is back at Leu Gardens, and you really don’t want to miss this incredible family-friendly event! Wander through the Jurassic Gardens and encounter dinosaurs, chat with fossil experts and learn all about the time when these colossal creatures roamed the Earth. leugardens.org

THE PREGO EXPO March 14, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.

THE ROSEN PLAZA The Prego Expo brings together all of the biggest names in the baby game under one roof for a special day designed just for expectant moms. With over 70 exhibitors, get answers to questions, try out products, attend informational seminars and enter to win prizes! VIP ticket-holders are guaranteed a signature swag bag and are entered twice for prize giveaways. VIPs and one of their guests (with purchase of general admission ticket) will be allowed early entrance 30 minutes before the expo doors open. Supplies limited. COVID-19 updates: Increased event space to allow for social distancing; reduced capacity; all staff, exhibitors and attendees required to wear face coverings throughout the event; increased cleaning and hand sanitizing stations.

VIP: $60; General Admission: $16 in advance or $22 at the door; Children ages 4–12: $5 pregoexpo.com

37 PLAYGROUND Feb / Mar 2021

A Special Day for Pregos to PLAY!

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Family Medical Guide

AdventHealth for Children Supported by the strength, innovations and mission of the AdventHealth Care Network, AdventHealth for Children is committed to delivering world-class programs, extraordinary patient care and clinical excellence. Our flagship hospital in downtown Orlando is the heart of a children’s network that includes primary care pediatricians, specialty clinics, emergency care and kids urgent care facilities.

601 E. Rollins St., Orlando 407-303-5437 • AdventHealthforChildren.com

Lawton Orthodontics For 48 years, Lawton Orthodontics has provided comprehensive orthodontic care for adults and children. We specialize in state-ofthe-art treatment, including 3-D x-rays and intraoral 3-D scanners (no more impressions!) while using industry-leading Damon braces and Invisalign. We are conveniently located in Winter Park and Oviedo.

201 N. Lakemont Ave., Suite 400, Winter Park 2984 Alafaya Trl., Suite 1010, Oviedo 407-644-8242 • LawtonOrthodontics.com

Nemours At Nemours Children’s Health System, your family can get a full spectrum of pediatric care. We’re with you every step — from primary care for regular well-child visits and urgent care for life’s little mishaps to virtual, specialty, emergency and hospital care.

Nemours is recognized as one of the nation’s safest pediatric hospitals — and our teams include some of the best doctors, nurses and support specialists around.

6535 Nemours Pkwy., Orlando 407-567-4000 • Nemours.org 38 PLAYGROUND Feb / Mar 2021

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Orlando Health Physician Associates provides you and your family quality care for a lifetime of health. Our doctors practice family medicine, internal medicine, pediatric medicine, podiatry, obstetrics and gynecology. We offer convenient locations and hours, including same-day and virtual appointments. And because we are part of Orlando Health, you have seamless access to an advanced network of care. orlandohealth.com/physicianassociates

Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children has provided experienced, compassionate care to the children, teenagers and young adults of Central Florida for more than 30 years. Led by world-renowned doctors, and together with dedicated specialists and caregivers, Orlando Health Arnold Palmer offers a wide range of advanced pediatric services in an environment built just for kids.

92 W. Miller St., Orlando 321-843-KIDS (321-843-5437) ArnoldPalmerHospital.com

Orlando Pediatric Dentistry Dr. Girardot is a board-certified pediatric dentist who provides dental services to infants, children, teens and special needs patients. Dr. Girardot strives to create a positive dental experience in a comfortable, fun and caring environment.

907 Outer Rd., Suite A, Orlando 407-898-5437 orlandopediatricdentistry.com

Pediatric Dental Care of Greater Orlando Visit PDCOrlando.com or call 407-208-0288 for details.

Consistent with the AAPD guidelines that dental visits should occur within the first year of life, the slogan at PDC is, “a healthy smile begins at birth.”

Oviedo: 7250 Red Bug Lake Rd., Suite 1024, Oviedo East Orlando: 11309 Lake Underhill Rd., Orlando 407-208-0288 pediatricdentalcareorlando.com

Tace Rico, M.D. | Pediatric Dermatologist At AdventHealth for Children, we believe that all children should feel incredible. Dr. Tace Rico specializes in treating children with birthmarks, hemangiomas, port wine stains and scars.

Recognized as the best pediatric dermatologist in Central Florida

by Playground readers, Dr. Rico uses innovative treatments and is dedicated to helping your child feel incredible inside and out.

615 E. Rollins Ave., Suite 416, Orlando 407-303-1687 AdventHealthforChildren.com/dermatology 39 PLAYGROUND Feb / Mar 2021

PLAY SEE/SAW

Dinosaur Invasion They’re back! Leu Gardens is celebrating its 60th birthday with another epic adventure into the Jurassic Era. We checked out the new Dinosaur Invasion exhibit with our little explorers, and it's DINO-mite for all ages. You don’t want to miss this exhibit running now through April 18.

This interactive experience immerses you into the world of dinosaurs using meticulously crafted replicas set amongst the lush gardens. You'll feel like you’ve stepped back in time! leugardens.org

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PLAY SEE/SAW

NEW Behind-the-Scenes Private Adventures at OSC The new private experiences at Orlando Science Center (OSC) are more than tours, they’re fully hands-on adventures that allow you to shadow the OSC staff through a fun, educational journey into the inner workings of the Science Center!

You can choose the Keeper for a Day experience inside NatureWorks or join The Maker Movement at The Hive Makerspace for a 90-minute private program offered to your group of up to 10 guests.

Playground’s publisher, Heather Reneau, was invited to bring her daughter to the Keeper for a Day experience, where she handled the animals, fed the reptiles and even made art using a monitor lizard’s tail and feet as paintbrushes! osc.org/private-experiences

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PLAY SEE/SAW

XL Soccer World Lake Nona — Now Open!

The new XL Soccer World facility in Lake Nona is now open. With Central Florida being either too hot or too rainy for much of the year, indoor soccer in this fully air-conditioned space allows for year-round play. The relaxing bar/lounge area is incredibly family-friendly and a great place for soccer parents to relax and meet friends.

This new facility offers all the existing programs that the Winter Park location offers, from toddler classes to adult leagues. One program that is completely unique to Central Florida is the full-time school (grades 6-12) for Elite soccer players hosted by a former English Premier League player, Alan Smith. XL Soccer World's programs help kids develop important life skills such as teamwork, motivation, endurance, fitness and mental wellness. xlnona.com

42 PLAYGROUND Feb / Mar 2021

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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Together, we’re incredible.

Photo by Amy Smith 2020

Best Women’s and Newborn Care in Orlando

21-AHFC-00339

Motherhood is incredible. We know that taking the best care of your baby starts with taking the best care of yourself. Our health navigators make it easy to manage your care including finding the best doctor for you and your baby and scheduling appointments. Plus, U.S. News & World Report has named AdventHealth Orlando as one of the Top 50 hospitals in the nation for gynecology and AdventHealth for Children the Best Children’s Hospital for newborn care in Florida for the second year in a row. It’s world-class health care you can count on in one convenient network.

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