PLAYGROUND Oct/Nov Culture Issue

LIVE | LOVE | PLAY

PLAYGROUND a lifestyle magazine for central florida's modern parents

e r u t l u C e Th Issue

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

Food & Restaurant Guide Page 48

Raising LIttle Artists Culinary Arts for Kids Beyond Bilingual playgroundmagazine.com

“Where Your Child Is a STAR!”

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2 PLAYGROUND Sep / Oct 2018

A NATIONAL LEADER FOR

10 STRAIGHT YEARS. When it comes to choosing the best for your kids, choose the best in Central Florida.

For 10 years straight, Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children has been recognized as a “Best Children’s Hospital,” by U.S. News & World Report. That means you have access to care from an award-winning national leader located right in your own backyard.

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3 PLAYGROUND Sep / Oct 2018

CONTENTS

Calling All PLAYers...

Stay in the loop between issues by signing up for our Weekend PLAYguide e-newsletter at playgroundmagazine.com

October / November 2019

Natural Beauty Page 31

The Culture Issue

• 6 Publisher's Note • 8 Talk of the Playground

LIVE

• 12 Book Buzz • 14 Becoming Bilingual • 16 Culinary Arts for Kids

LOVE

• 22 Raising Little Artists • 31 Natural Beauty Kids' Fashion

PLAY

• 38 Go PLAY: Family Events Calendar • 44 See/Saw SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

FOOD & RESTAURANT GUIDE A list of food-related resources for Central Florida families, from restaurants and food hubs to nonprofits promoting healthy eating!

PAGE 48

@PLAYGROUNDMagazine @PLAYorlando Photo: Serena Nicole Studios

@ PlayMagCF

Subscribe now to get all six issues of PLAYGROUND Magazine delivered to your door for $15 per year. playgroundmagazine.com/subscribe 4 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2019

A HOLIDAY EVENT WHERE YOUR GUESTS WILL BE

DAZZLE

You’ve got something to celebrate! Collaborate with Disney for your tailor-made holiday celebration, and we’ll bring the imagination, attention to detail and unparalleled service that elevates your event to a customized experience. Disney event planners work with you every step of the way, with access to world-class creative teams, culinary experts, and spectacular entertainment. Wrap your holiday event in Disney magic.

To learn more, visit disneymeetingsandevents.com or call 321-939-4648

5 PLAYGROUND Sep / Oct 2018

PUBLISHER'S NOTE

PLAYGROUND LIVE | LOVE | PLAY

Hello, Fall!

Welcome to our first Culture Issue! It was fun to work on a different theme this year and explore my favorite things: art, culture and food! While diving deep into Orlando's culture, I was reminded of how grateful I am to be raising my kids in such a diverse metro area. You should be too! I can't think of anything we don't have at our fingertips.

I'm also thankful for the team of creative parents and business owners I have the privilege of working with on each new issue. This one opened the door for me to meet Jennifer Crotty, the owner of Porch Therapy at East End Market and The Heavy in Winter Park. Wow... what a cool-ass mama! I mean, really cool. She's Heather Reneau on location at The Heavy a confident visionary who sets the trend.

Jennifer is one of those people who just seems a step ahead of everyone else in style, grounded in nature and smart in business. I'm in awe of the community space that she's created at The Heavy, all while raising a family.

I also got to reconnect with local photographer Serena Chapel, owner of Serena Nicole Studios (serenanicolestudios.com). We worked very closely together to produce the Natural Beauty kids' fashion story. A few in-person meetings and lots of texts and emails were in order to coordinate this photoshoot. It was a lot of work, and I thoroughly enjoyed her creative input and just how friendly and inspiring she is. Her photography approach fit perfectly with our concept of natural and simple with lots of style. Check out her work!

Last but not least, I was thrilled to meet Chelsea Santos, the new business owner of Yaya + Lou (@yayaandlou) children's boutique in College Park. She's young, smart, determined and killing it with a new store that is a fresh and modern approach for the local kids' fashion scene. Make it a point to stop in and meet Chelsea the next time you're in CP. As always, THANK YOU to Team Playground for all the creative energy you bring to every project and to our readers who keep coming back for more!

Heather Reneau LIVE | LOVE | PLAY

a lifesty le maga zine for centr al florid a's mode rn paren ts

ABOUT THE COVER ...

We were super excited to collaborate with Serena Nicole Studios (serenanicolestudios.com) to photograph the Natural Beauty kids' fashion story at the The Heavy (theheavywp.com), a trendy community hub in Winter Park. Alina is wearing a Rylee + Cru Quincy blouse and gathered bloomer set in rainforest green, $68, and Zimmerman Flora T-Strap shoe in camel, $63, available at College Park's newest children's boutique, Yaya + Lou (@yayaandlou). See the rest of these natural beauties on page 31.

D

Chrissy Allen Co-Founder Brant Muekeley Financial Manager brant@playgroundmagazine.com Jessica Ventura Advertising Manager jessica@playgroundmagazine.com Cortney Thekan Editor cortney@playgroundmagazine.com Jessica Friend Graphic Design & Photography jessica.friend@playgroundmagazine.com Alicia McKee Sales Assistant, E-newsletter Coordinator & Circulations Manager alicia@playgroundmagazine.com Wendy Meyer Writer, Events Editor & Social Media Coordinator wendy@playgroundmagazine.com Contributing Writers: Amy Nielsen, Betsy Jewell, Jan Pierce, Jessie Poole, Mary Hood, Viviana Valencia-Serrano, Wendy Meyer Contributing Photographers: Jessica Friend Photo Design Serena Nicole Studios PLAYGROUND Magazine is published bimonthly by Playground Media Group, LLC, 10151 University Blvd., Ste. 326, Orlando, FL 32817. Telephone 407-221-4932.

Publisher, Editorial & Creative Director

PLAYGROUN

Heather Reneau Founder and Publisher heather@playgroundmagazine.com

OCTOBER / NOVEM

BER 2019

The Cul ture Issue

Food & Restaurant Guide Page 42

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.

Raising LIttle Artists

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

Culinary Arts for Kids Beyond Bilingual

OctNov19_Cover.in

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For more information, visit our website at playgroundmagazine.com. playgroundma

gazine.com

9/25/19 11:36 AM

6 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2019

hings T t a e r G ng at i n e p p a H are

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ORLANDO'S NEW

WALL CRAWL 1016 W CHURCH ST ORLANDO

the TALK of the PLAYGROUND

New offerings, reminders, announcements… the inside scoop on what’s happening around town!

WALLCRAWL.COM

Photo: Jessica Friend

bright & graphic NOT YOUR MOTHER'S PHOTO STUDIO ...

This is Nina Friend celebrating her 11th birthday with a photoshoot at Orlando's new obsession — The Wall Crawl. If you're looking for a backdrop with PLAYful colors and punchy patterns for your next family photo sesh, then this is your place. A local husband and wife team created this concept

of an indoor (read: air-conditioned) studio filled with over 20 different designed wall murals, backdrops and sets that change seasonally! It's a great spot for anything from a fun selfie to a full-blown professional photoshoot. Visit wallcrawl.com for pricing and appointment schedules.

88 PLAYGROUND PLAYGROUND Sep Oct//Oct Nov2018 2019

FASHION Words by Wendy Meyer @LittleRebelMom

Now Open:

MIGHTY GIRLS FITNESS & YOGA We have a new girl crush. Mighty Girls Fitness has opened a studio in Baldwin Park! This unique boutique fitness and yoga studio focuses on health and wellness for women ages 8 and up with all levels of skill and modalities. This is a special space where women and girls can “live their best life” through classes that are designed to build confidence and awareness of the mind/body connection regardless of age or fitness level.

4804 New Broad Street, Orlando | mightygirlsfitness.com

INCLUSION MATTERS

Children's Home Society of Florida becomes HRC Certified HRC's “All Children – All Families,” a project of the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, promotes LGBTQ+ inclusive policies and affirming practices among child welfare agencies. Children’s Home Society of Florida (located in Orlando) is the first statewide organization to become HRC-certified for this program.

Orlando couldn’t be more proud to be home to the Children’s Home Society, an organization that seeks to find foster and adoptive homes for children and teens and to build strong bonds between parents and children based on inclusion and creating a loving environment for ALL children and families. Bravo!

BOOK REVIEW

Tired of yelling?

We can relate.

If you’re suffering from mom-guilt for losing it on your kids, we suggest this book to help you navigate and lighten your mood. Author Carla Naumburg, Ph.D. humorously explains the science behind why parents are having meltdowns and some helpful ways to fix the freakouts.

If you are anything like me, you may not know exactly what your triggers are and how to communicate those to your kids.

Naumburg makes you feel less alone in a world of parenting struggles and makes you realize you are NOT a bad parent for having lost your mind a few times. We appreciated that revelation and her ability to make us LOL while she sheds light on the question of How To Stop Losing Your Sh*t with Your Kids.

Now Open:

THE GLASS SLIPPER BOUTIQUE From princesses and fairies to pirates and knights, your little one will be transformed into the fairytale character of their dreams! Each child receives special attention from a “fairy godmother” who helps create a magical makeover that includes a costume and makeup. Looking for a unique birthday party venue? The Glass Slipper offers event packages and professional photography too. Book an appointment for a day of fun or your next big event. (See the grand opening event photos on page 47.)

8600 Vineland Ave. Suite 104, Orlando | glassslipperorlando.com

9 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2019

The TALK of the PLAYGROUND

Obsessed:

“COLOR OUR CITY BEAUTIFUL” POSTER

The crew over at Orlantone knows the spectrum of unique beauty our town has to offer. They create and sell products that tell the story of Orlando through color.

We love this larger-than-life coloring poster of downtown Orlando that’s a PLAYful project to work on with your kids! Bonus: Proceeds from each purchase are used to fund local initiatives that inspire love and joy in the City Beautiful. Available at orlantone.com for $15.

CHEERS TO MOMMY MOCKTAILS

Now Open:

Expectant mommas can now enjoy an all-natural nonalcoholic beverage made right here in Orlando! Mommy Mocktails was developed by a local mom who was unable to find a social beverage when she was pregnant with her daughter. Once your little bundle of wonderful arrives, these also make amazing mixers <insert wink emoji here>. Order a bottle of Mommy Mocktails for your next event in one of these available flavors: Raspberry Sangria, Coconut Lavender Cosmo, Blueberry Mojito. mmocktails.com

INSIDE SCOOP

Locals need to know...

You can enter Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party starting at 4 p.m. The party doesn't officially start until 7 p.m. but arriving three hours early allows you to grab some dinner and get a head start on the rides! (That's eight hours at the MK at a much lower rate than regular park admission.)

10 PLAYGROUND Aug / Sep 2019

BUNNY & CLYDE CHILDREN'S BOUTIQUE

Local mom and owner Jennifer Strong just celebrated the opening of her new children’s boutique in downtown Lake Mary on September 28! Bunny & Clyde offers brands such as children’s moccasins by Sojo Moccs and incredibly soft clothes and accessories

by Finn + Emma. Plus, the collection includes carefully curated items for the big kids, like game gear and the cutest message T-shirts by EVERYKIND (a brand spreading the message of acceptance of every kind of person).

Follow them on Facebook and Instagram at @ shopbunnyandclyde 122 N 4th St., Lake Mary bunnyandclyde.com

Take time to be thankful for those who mean the most …

PARTIES • MAKEOVERS • PRIVATE EVENTS

Unrivaled Service.

Personal Attention.

Add a little sparkle to your child’s day …

Book an appointment or party at The Glass Slipper Boutique.

We are royally excited to meet you!

8600 Vineland Avenue, Suite 104 • Orlando, FL 32821 www.glassslipperorlando.com • 407-704-0475 : theglassslipperorlando

Janice Cox

Broker Associate Call: 407-990-5885 Email: Janice.Cox@PremierSIR.com @JaniceCoxWinterParkRealtor Find your home at JaniceCox.PremierSothebysRealty.com

JaniceCox-fourth-1019-2.indd 1

9/18/19 10:24 AM

lake highland preparatory school

Success

Niche.com’s #1 K-12 Private School in Orlando • Playground Magazine’s Family Favorite Elementary School • Orlando Magazine’s Best of Orlando

Starts Here

Lake Highland Preparatory School is located on a beautiful 42-acre campus and is nestled in a scenic enclave of downtown Orlando. Here, PreK through 12th-grade students receive a remarkable education and unique opportunities to learn and lead. Ingenuity is inspired in the classroom, and our nationally ranked academics, arts, and athletics prepare students to excel in college and beyond.

We invite you to tour our campus, see our extraordinary facilities, experience our atmosphere of love and respect, and envision your child’s success starting at Lake Highland.

Visitation days are available at www.lhps.org/admissionevents.

central florida’s SCHOOL OF OPPORTUNITY

www.lhps.org | 407-206-1900 ext. 1 | 901 Highland Avenue | Orlando, Florida 32803

LIVE

BOOK

BUZZ

The Orange County Library System (OCLS) recommends these books to help make meal prep fun and easy.

Words by Viviana Valencia-Serrano Photo by Amanda Murphy

Even well-loved favorites like chicken nuggets and mac-and-cheese get old after awhile. Persuading your kids to try different foods or even thinking about what to make after a long day can be overwhelming, but the library is here to help. You can borrow these books from your local OCLS branch. Visit ocls.info/ locations to find a branch near you. > Grade 4+ Eat Fresh Food: Awesome Recipes for Teen Chefs

by Rozanne Gold and Her All-Star Team Teen chefs who really want to wow their friends and family should check out this book, which offers great ways to try new food styles without breaking the bank or using hard-to-find ingredients.

Too busy to visit a branch? Use OCLS's convenient Books by MAYL service to have these and other items delivered to your door. Call 407-835-7323 to place your requests.

> Grades 2–4

> Parents

Weird Food

by Jeff De la Rosa

Fearless Food: Allergy-Free Recipes for Kids

by Katrina Jorgensen

This continuation to the True or False Series offers foodies an opportunity to learn unusual facts about food, including everything from festivals that celebrate throwing tomatoes to facts about the hottest chili pepper.

> Babies–Grade 1 Every Color Soup

by Jorey Hurley With minimal text, this book tells an entertaining story about colors and vegetables. Some vegetables might be new to little ones, which will make for fun discussions about vegetables with interesting colors, flavors and shapes.

Summer Supper

by Mike Austin This colorful story describes a meal being prepared from seed to table. This book offers the perfect opportunity for parents to practice the letter “S” at home with their little ones.

12 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2019

If your child has food allergies, this is a great book to teach your little one about the different types of foods they can eat safely.

Most of the recipes in this book are easy to follow, but some are a little more difficult.

Adult supervision is recommended.

The Ultimate New Mom’s Cookbook: A Complete Food and Nutrition Resource for Expectant Mothers, Babies and Toddlers

by Aurora Satler The colorful photographs of the food and families make this book very visually attractive. This is a great book for new moms. It includes a range of useful information, including suggestions for easing nausea and dealing with picky toddlers.

S T U D I O S

Beautifully mixing videography and portraiture to perfectly tell your story right now. www.serenanicolestudios.com 609-529-7121

TheParke Parke House Academy House Academy Inspiring ExceedingExpectations Expectations Inspiring Learning, Learning, Exceeding

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Now Enrolling for Our New 1 & 2-Year-Old Program • Limited Availability

www.ParkeHouseAcademy.com • Winter Park, FL • 407-647-1121 • 1 Years Old-5th Grade www.TheParkeHouseAcademy.com The Parke House Academy admits students of any race, creed, national or ethnic origin, gender or religious affiliation. Accredited by FCIS and FKC . DCF License Pending 407-647-1121 • Preschool-5th Grade • 1776 Minnesota Ave. • Winter Park, FL 32789 The Parke House Academy admits students of any race, creed, national or ethnic origin, gender or religious affiliation. Accredited by FCIS and FKC.

LIVE

Joanna Bucaro leading bilingual storytime. A creative literacy journey for schools and libraries includes engaging bilingual stories, songs, puppets, games and activities that flow seamlessly between English and Spanish.

BECOMING BILINGUAL All Kids Spanish is preparing children to thrive in Orlando's multicultural community.

Words by Amy Nielsen

Florida has the third-largest Latino population in the country, with nearly 5 million Latino people calling the Sunshine State home. The vibrant influence of the Latino population can be seen in nearly every aspect of our multicultural peninsula. With more than 20 percent of Florida residents speaking Spanish, there is an indisputable advantage to being bilingual in our state.

Fortunately for our community, a program called All Kids Spanish, created by Joanna Bucaro, is helping Central Florida children become bilingual.

Joanna Bucaro was born in Guatemala. As a young girl, she spent time in the United States as an exchange student and visiting family in Miami. Although she loved Guatemala, after she had a family of her own, she decided to move to the United States. Her then 2-year-old son, Rodrigo, thrived in the United States and quickly learned English. Joanna, her husband and their two older daughters were bilingual, but because Rodrigo was in a daycare where only English was spoken, his ability to speak and understand Spanish suffered. When he was about 6 years old, the Bucaro family returned to Guatemala to visit. Joanna noticed Rodrigo struggling to communicate with his Spanish-speaking family. Her determination to ensure her son did not lose his native language motivated her to start All Kids Spanish.

14 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2019

All Kids Spanish is an innovative immersion program run by educators who have a passion for impacting the lives of their students. They create an environment where the Spanish language and culture become a live, interactive experience. Their mission is to help their students to embrace the Latin American culture and also benefit from being bilingual in areas such as enhanced cognitive thinking, better problem-solving skills, a future edge in the job market and a global perspective.

According to Joanna, research shows that early childhood is when a second language can be learned most easily. Her toddler/preschool program is designed to take advantage of that window and offers multiple classes for this age group. The beginning level Mommy & Me class is designed for the parent to actively participate with the child through fun, engaging and fast-paced songs, dancing and handson activities. The Spanish Immersion Sensory class takes a kinesthetic approach by using sensory-based activities designed to foster curiosity and imagination. Finally, the Spanish Immersion Preschool class exposes children to more complex aspects of the Spanish language.

Pasaportes Mini

All Kids Spanish also offers a 32-week Spanish Immersion program for kids in grades K–5. This program uses the Descubre de Español con Santillana curriculum and makes learning a cultural adventure with materials for students of all language levels and ages. Students meet engaging characters who travel to eight Spanishspeaking countries while learning about the local people, places, culture, food, animals and language. This age group can also participate in the Pequeños Chefs cooking class, featuring Latin-inspired recipes, as well as join the Spanish Club.

Other options for all grade levels are private lessons and day camps, summer camps and winter camps.

In addition to the classes offered onsite, All Kids Spanish has several community outreach programs. For example, Pasaportes Mini is an in-house field trip that can be presented at schools or other locations. Pasaportes Mini allows children to embark on a memorable cultural experience without leaving the comfort of a familiar environment. Children learn about different cultures by visiting stations and interacting with in-character tour guides. Activities at each station include culturally authentic music, history, geography, arts and crafts and more.

Pasaportes Mini

For those in need of a smaller version of the Pasaportes Minis, All Kids Spanish also offers customizable Cajitas Culterales rentals. Treasure chests are filled to the brim with engaging artifacts from around the globe, offering students hands-on interactions with items such as handmade dolls, toys, instruments and costumes.

These rental chests help make celebrations such as Cinco de Mayo, Hispanic Heritage Month and International Day authentic and engaging.

What Joanna and her staff at All Kids Spanish have created is not simply a language class; it’s an opportunity for kids to experience a variety of cultures from Spanishspeaking nations around the world. Like many people who have immigrated to Central Florida, Joanna is proud of her native culture and language and hopes to share that pride with the community. All Kids Spanish offers children in the Orlando area an opportunity to dive deep into a multicultural experience that’s just as diverse and colorful as the community itself.

Visit allkidspanish.com for the latest class offerings at the Spanish Language Hub located at 2902 N. Orange Avenue, Ste. 206, Orlando.

What the parents have to say:

• As a professional, I see the benefit of being able to speak Spanish. I want my daughter to have that competitive edge in her future. – Nicole

• I was adopted from Colombia but never learned Spanish. I adopted my son from Colombia, and I want him to grow up knowing his native language. Now I am learning along with him. – Jenn

15 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2019

• I have read a lot of articles that say the research shows being bilingual unlocks parts of the brain that knowing one language doesn’t. I believe this will help my son as he gets older to be more adaptive. – Rachel

“

“

Pequeños Chefs

LIVE | Culinary Arts for Kids

Words by Betsy Jewell Photos by Jessica Friend

Edible Education Experience

Culinary Arts for Kids Looking for cooking classes for your kids in the Orlando area?

I had the opportunity to visit some with my son.

Here's what I found...

Words by Betsy Jewell Photos by Jessica Friend

Families are always on the go. Between school, sports, activities and jobs, it’s not easy to find the time to sit down at the table and eat together as a family. And on those occasions when everyone happens to be at home at the same time, there’s still the challenge of finding foods and recipes that everyone will enjoy. So what’s a family to do?

“Include your kids in the meal planning, grocery shopping and food preparation,” suggests Kari King, a registered dietitian and local teacher. “Giving them ownership will help kids develop a sense of pride, and they will be more motivated to participate in the kitchen.”

For busy parents who are looking for ways to connect with their kids, Yamira Lee Johnson (breakingbreadwithmira.com) recommends making family meals a priority when possible.

“I believe that we create powerful bonds with our children when we sit down as a family and share a meal. It’s not just about the nutrients in the food; it’s about the connection we make as a family.”

And what about finding ways to encourage kids to make healthy choices when it comes 16 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2019

to food? Gary Appelsies is a chef, nutritionist and the director of healthy eating for the YMCA of Central Florida’s 22 locations spanning six counties. He offers strategies to help families change the way they think about food. His suggestions include allowing kids to continue to eat the foods they enjoy but with a healthy twist. For example, he recommends baking chicken tenders instead of frying and adding pureed butternut squash or carrots to macaroni and cheese.

Chef Gary also suggests continuing to introduce new foods over and over again. “Our taste buds change over time. There may be foods that your kids won’t eat when they are young, but they may end up liking it as they get older. Ask your children to take a ‘no thank you bite,’ meaning they must try one bite to see if they like it. Over time, they may end up enjoying it.” Chef Gary answers questions and provides more healthy-eating tips through the Virtual Chef page at ymcacentralflorida.com/ health-wellness/virtualchef. You can also find dozens of healthy recipes the whole family will enjoy on the Y’s website: ymcacentralflorida. com/health-wellness/recipes.

Edible Education Experience Emeril Lagasse Foundation Kitchen House and Culinary Garden, College Park

Located just a short distance from the bustle of I-4, Edible Education Experience is a culinary oasis tucked into the College Park neighborhood of Orlando. From their lush, beautiful garden classroom to their professionally equipped kitchen house, this nonprofit is a welcoming space for parents and children looking for an educational culinary experience.

During my visit, it was clear that the team at Edible Education Experience is passionate about what they do. I arrived just as a group of students was being led through the garden, and then I followed them into the kitchen where they were taught knife skills and kitchen safety. Every child was engaged in the lesson, and the instructors made it a fun experience for all. The entire facility is immaculate, and the kitchen is a dream for any aspiring home chef (including me!).

The team is made up of both staff and volunteers, including locally renowned chef Kevin Fonzo, former owner of K Restaurant.

Garden educator Brad Jones oversees the diverse ecosystem, which is free of fertilizers and pesticides. It’s an environment where children and plants thrive. He says, “kids work collaboratively and function the way the garden functions, which is fundamental to success.” Culinary educator Erica Asti says, “We make an effort to integrate cultural influence in our garden and through our classes.”

Edible Education Experience offers a selection of summer camps, school break camps, homeschool and community group classes as well as familyfriendly Chef Night events. More classes and experiences are in development. For more information, visit EdibleEd.org.

Community Cocina Downtown Orlando Held at the Orlando United Assistance Center in downtown Orlando, Community Cocina (qlatinx.org/cocina) is a monthly multicultural experience led by Chef Yamira Lee Johnson.

She guides the group through the process of making delicious meals with a cultural twist while teaching about health, diet and nutrition. Community Cocina takes place on the third Thursday of each month.

17 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2019

LIVE | Culinary Arts For Kids

Publix Aprons Cooking School Orlando: Dr. Phillips and Winter Park

Photos by Betsy Jewell

Publix Aprons Cooking Schools can be found in several Florida locations, including two right here in the Orlando area. My son and I attended a Big & Little Chef Summertime Treats class, and we can’t wait to go back. The class, led by master chefs Craig and Jimmy, was not only educational but fun. Both chefs were patient and encouraging so everyone, no matter their skill level in the kitchen, felt comfortable participating.

Summer camps and year-round classes are offered for kids, teens and adults. In addition to handson cooking classes, Publix offers cooking demonstrations and party-style private events. The Big & Little Chef series is open to children ages 8–12 who team up with a parent to prepare a meal.

Older kids (ages 13–18) may attend classes on their own. Class information and schedules can be found at publix.com/recipes-planning/aprons-cooking-schools.

Orange County Library System Branch locations throughout Orange County From preschoolers through adults, the Orange County Library System offers something for the whole family, including hands-on cooking experiences and age-appropriate themed classes.

I stopped by a recent Little Chef: Peach Cobbler class that was filled with preschoolers and their parents.

The class started off with a sweet welcome song and storytime told using a super cute book about peaches. Following the story, the children all had the opportunity to create their own peach parfait.

The smiles on their faces as they crushed their graham crackers into crumbs was priceless. The 18 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2019

room where the class took place is filled with natural light and has a colorful mural painted on the wall.

Noraliz Orengo, youth program specialist at the Downtown Orlando branch, encourages parent and child involvement. “The biggest thing for us is to strengthen the parent-child relationship while enhancing and promoting life skills.” Classes are held at various branches throughout Orange County, and a complete list of upcoming classes can be found at ocls.info/classes-events.

LIVE | Culinary Arts For Kids

More Culinary Experiences for Kids Truffles and Trifles Named one of the top five cooking schools in the country by Food Network, Truffles and Trifles has been offering cooking classes and culinary experiences for 34 years. Hands-on classes and summer camps are available for kids and teens ages 7–18. trufflesandtrifles.com

YMCA of Central Florida The YMCA isn’t just about exercise and fitness; it’s also about nutrition and healthy eating habits. On the website, you’ll find easy-to-follow recipes developed by their very own Chef Gary Appelsies, tips for healthy eating and a handy Florida produce guide. ymcacentralflorida.com/health-wellness

Williams-Sonoma Pequeños Chefs All Kids Spanish offers a Saturday Spanish Cooking Club for kids in grades K–5. The program provides children a fun and hands-on way to practice their Spanish language skills (from beginners to advanced levels) while also providing a platform for building basic culinary skills.

Recipes are inspired by Spanish culture and promote healthy eating behaviors. allkidspanish.com/schedule

Cooking classes and chef demonstrations are offered at various Williams-Sonoma store locations throughout Central Florida.

Junior Chef classes are themed to be kidfriendly and teach age-appropriate skills and techniques. williams-sonoma.com

Kids Can Create Sweets & Treats

Chocolate Kingdom

Peterbrooke Chocolatier

Wondermade

This sweet chocolate factory adventure will delight family members of all ages. Learn the history of chocolate and see how chocolate is made from “bean to bar” during an interactive journey led by your personal guide with help from a handsome prince and his dragon sidekick. At the end, you get to customize your very own chocolate bar! Tours last approximately 45 minutes and are scheduled every hour on the hour. chocolatekingdom.com

Summer camp and birthday parties have never been sweeter than at Peterbrooke Chocolatier in Winter Park! During these special events, kids get to be a chocolatier for a day. They will learn all about the chocolate-making process and will have hands-on fun as they dip their own treats, color with edible paints and build a gift basket to bring home. peterbrooke.com

Bring the whole gang to see how marshmallows are made at the Marshmallow Family Workshop! The workshop includes a tour of the kitchen and the story of Wondermade. Plan on being there for about an hour. Kids can become an “official marshmallow agent,” and everyone will receive a complimentary slab of marshmallows. Family workshops are held on the last Saturday of each month. wondermade.com/collections/events

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Feature

Raising Little Artists

Are artists born or are they developed?

What if, like reading and math, art is something that can be learned?

As a parent, the "nature versus nurture" debate may have crossed your mind regarding this topic. Maybe if your children encounter the right teacher or hear encouraging words, they can become artists too.

These people, places and tips just might draw the magic out of your petite Picasso.

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Visual Arts a pre-packaged, pre-defined manner. True art is much more about the process.

Helping Children Learn About Art: Process vs. Product Words by Dr. Mary Hood When I was supervising student teachers during my Ph.D. program, I often walked past hallways that were filled with children’s “artwork”. In the winter, there were rows of snowmen. At Valentine’s Day, there were hearts. At Easter, bunnies and eggs tended to dominate.

The one thing all these rows of “artwork” had in common was their similarity. Every snowman had three circles, one black hat, a broom, exactly three buttons and a carrot for a nose. Every heart was red. In most cases, especially in the younger classrooms, a teacher or volunteer had cut out the shapes beforehand. The children had been given a very specific model and

There are many ways to encourage artful play with very young children. An easy and fun activity is to give them a cookie sheet and have them squirt shaving cream all over it. Then give them some finger paints and invite them to pour them all over the shaving cream and swirl the colors around to their hearts’ content. When it is all over, the shaving cream is washed off, the product is disposed of, and there is nothing left to show anyone. This is art in its purest form.

To encourage the development of real artistic expression in your children, I believe there is a two-step process that can be intertwined and taught at the same time. First, there is art

Art has the role in education of helping children become like themselves instead of more like everyone else. -Sydney Gurewitz Clemens told exactly how to make their creation.

This may have been a lot of fun. It probably impressed the parents with the creativity found in the school system. It might have helped the children develop valuable fine motor skills, such as cutting with scissors and pasting. It might have helped the children learn how to follow directions.

It was not art. When parents or professionals focus on the product, especially when there's a very specific product in mind, that's a craft.

Art is a means of personal expression. True art can barely be defined and never done in

appreciation ... getting to know, recognize and enjoy the work of other artists. The better the quality of the art they get to know, the more likely their own work will exhibit a high quality of work. The second step is to simply provide materials suitable for the ages and ability levels of the children, and step back and let them work.

artists, I borrowed books from the library and put them on the countertop. I also tried to incorporate occasional museum trips into our art instruction. Personally, I have found that I enjoy museums most when I have the ability to either pause in front of things that interest me or go flying through a section I don't connect with, so I tried to incorporate this same flexibility into museum visits with the kids.

Art, music and theater have always been important parts of our lives and our learning. To all parents, my messages is this: I hope you take the time to incorporate art into your family time.

Even if you don’t believe you have an ounce of creativity in you, just give it a try! You and your children might really surprise yourselves!

MARY HOOD has a Ph.D. in education and is the author of The Relaxed Home School and other books.

In our home, we always had an art center. This was simply a cabinet that had some counter space, a couple of drawers and some storage space underneath. We also had a bulletin board on the wall behind the center. To encourage my children to learn about great art and

Local Museum Programs for Kids & Families: Toddler Tuesday

The Mennello Museum of American Art Ages 2–5 Included with admission Bring your strollers and littlest ones for a fun-filled storytime and art activity

Family Funday

The Mennello Museum of Art Second Sundays Free admission Each monthly theme includes a miniature fine art project and free docent touring based on the current exhibition in the museum.

Family Day

Orlando Museum of Art October 5, 11 a.m–2 p.m.

Free admission This is a fun and educational experience for families that includes art activities, storytelling, gallery activities and special performances.

CFAMily Day

Cornell Fine Arts Museum at Rollins College November 16, 1–5 p.m.

Drop by for children’s films, scavenger hunts, games and hands-on activities that are perfect for the whole family.

Visit Visit playgroundmagzine.com playgroundmagzine.com for for aa round-up round-up of of local local art art classes classes for for kids. kids.

23 23 PLAYGROUND PLAYGROUND Oct Oct//Nov Nov 2019 2019

Raising Little Artists

Drama

The world of drama in all its different forms is a great tool for families who want their children to make their own fun. While we often think of drama taking place in theaters with a cast of tens or more, there are lots of ways to incorporate creative drama games and activities in your own home.

Words by Jan Pierce

Why Drama?

My grandson is a quiet child who loves nothing more than to find a spot where he can read alone. He is kind and gracious to others and quick to forgive. He’s sensitive to the point that it’s hard not to “protect” him from the real world. But this introverted child got the lead in his small town’s production of an off-broadway play. The role required acting, dancing and even singing! I was the proudest grandma around when he belted out the biggest number of the evening like a rock star. Later I asked him how he felt when he did that number. His simple answer was, “Confident.” Drama can do wonders for shy children. It can help them break through personal barriers and become brave. I saw it with my own eyes.

The Benefits Kids love to pretend. Kids love to move their bodies. Drama incorporates both of these child-friendly activities.

Here are some of the benefits of introducing creative drama activities into your family’s fun times: • Creative drama is a great tool for teaching content in other subject areas. Learning about the rainforest? Try some movement games to enhance the understanding of jungle animals. Learning about Shakespeare? Try writing a simple play based on the story of Romeo and Juliet and act it out.

• Learning to act “in character” requires focus, paying attention and engagement — all great learning tools.

Orlando Repertory Theatre Orlando Repertory Theatre • Creative drama stimulates creativity and self-expression.

It encourages children to get outside their own “selves” and try something new. It gives the opportunity to express a wide range of emotions, thoughts and ideas that may not be part of everyday life.

• The expression that is the heart of drama builds self-confidence and self-esteem. It goes past nerves and self-consciousness and allows children to try something new with success.

• Well-managed drama experiences offer a safe environment to try on other roles and to express feelings. How does it feel and look to be angry? Sad? Afraid?

• Drama experiences build empathy and a chance to support others in their efforts. It is community-building.

• Planning, rehearsing and performing offer great feelings of accomplishment and satisfaction.

Be sure to take advantage of theater opportunities through your child's school and these local theater companies offering classes for kids.

Dr. Phillips Center

Everyone from age 2 to 102 has the opportunity to engage their body, mind and imagination at Dr. Phillip's Center AdventHealth School of the Arts through classes in musical theater, acting, productions and other creative programs. drphillipscenter.org/education

The REP's Youth Academy The Orlando Repertory Theatre's Youth Academy program focuses on developing confidence, creating joy and discovering each student's personal voice in themed productions, performance workshops, acting and improv classes, oneday programs and camps.

Orlando Shakes

Kids play, practice and learn skills for theater and life! Educational classes and camps celebrate experimenting, taking risks and challenging expectations. Classes use techniques that encourage creativity, collaboration, concentration, public speaking and a strong work ethic. orlandoshakes.org/education

orlandorep.com/youth-academy

24 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2019

Florida Film Academy

This unique youth program offers classes for students ages 5–12 in movie making, improv, acting for stage and screen, FX makeup and more all wrapped around a unique STEAM-enriched curriculum available through after-school programs, homeschool classes, camps, workshops, kids night out, birthday parties and more. flfilmacademy.com

Drama can do wonders for shy children.

It can help them break through personal barriers and become brave.

Theater Games and Activities Drama teachers often use games and activities to “warm up” their budding actors and actresses. The games provide structure within which to explore movement, voice projection, quick thinking and reacting, focus, attention to detail and much more. We asked theater companies to provide creative dramatic activities that you can try at home.

Puppet Theater Sock puppets, paper puppets, wooden spoon puppets, paper bag puppets — kids love to make and use puppets to tell their stories. Turn over a table and crouch behind it, or cut out the back of a cardboard box to make your own puppet theater. Puppet theater extensions make a great response to a storybook that is the current favorite. The choices are endless as long as you see the opportunity to guide your children toward a hands-on response to something they know, love and are excited about.

Michelee Puppet Lab

Here are some drama games to try at home.

• Mirror activities are standard drama class fare. They build awareness of body movement and facilitate working together and non-verbal communication. There are many varieties of these games, but the basic game has children working in pairs, facing one another about 3 feet apart. The leader makes a slow, continuous movement, and the follower mirror-images the movements. The goal is to succeed, not trick one another.

• Role-playing games give kids practice in “being” someone else. Bus Stop is a role-playing game that children love. All children play the game simultaneously. Person A sits at the “bus stop” (bench or two chairs), and person B joins him.

Each person has secretly chosen an identity (person, animal, machine, etc.). Each person speaks in character, trying to guess who or what the other character is. Those waiting for their own turn also guess. Set a specific time for each pair of characters to interact, then ring a bell to end that session. You may choose to divulge the identities or not.

When finished, person B moves over and becomes person A with a new identity. A new player joins the game.

• Improvisation is a form of live theater in which plot, characters and dialogue of a scene or story are made up in the moment.

In improvisation games for kids, the leader selects players, and they draw a topic or scenario from a basket. There is no right or wrong, just responses. Skills will improve with opportunities to take part in the game. Children will become more and more comfortable with quick responses and actions.

Improv is often funny because of the surprising responses.

• Pantomime exercises are nonverbal responses to prompts.

They make for great drama guessing games and practice in thinking creatively. If the prompt is "office work", the player must think of a way to portray that, possibly by typing on a virtual keyboard or making copies at a virtual copy machine.

If the topic is "jungle", the actor might act like a monkey.

Make drama and dramatic responses part of your family fun.

Want to try your hand at puppetry? Michelee Puppets is an Orlando organization offering puppet labs that are open to the public and include activities such as onscreen puppetry, shadow performance and ensemble puppetry. All puppets and equipment are provided.

Michelee Puppets also provides custom arts integration workshops and classes for schools and youth groups. micheleepuppets.org/puppetlab

DID YOU KNOW? The only full-time elective puppetry class in the State of Florida is right here in Sanford? Millennium Middle School’s puppet program was created by Edna Bland, a theatre teacher of 15 years. The class began in 2016 and is the only one of its kind in the entire state. This semester-long program has grown from 25 students to 150 students with a waiting list.

Mrs. Bland says, "Puppetry Arts is a great break for middle school students away from their general academic subjects. It helps them develop their imagination and motor skills as well as explore the 4C’s of 21st century skills: collaboration, communication, creativity and critical thinking."

Visit Visitplaygroundmagazine.com playgroundmagazine.comfor foraaround-up round-upof ofmore moreperforming performingarts artsprograms programsfor forkids kidsin inCentral CentralFlorida.

Florida.

JAN PIERCE, MEd, is a retired teacher and freelance writer who specializes in articles about parenting, education and family life. She is the author of Homegrown Readers: Simple Ways to Help Your Child Learn to Read.

25 25 PLAYGROUND PLAYGROUND Oct Oct//Nov Nov2019 2019

Feature

Music

Your Child's Brain Will Thank You

Orlando Philharmonic's Symphony Storytime Series

Words by Jan Pierce It's official ... research has determined that children who take music lessons show improved brain development with increased memory capacity. Studies also show higher general intelligence in skills related to language and reading, mathematics and overall IQ scores.

Wes Simmons, owner of School of Rock (schoolofrock.com) locations in Orlando and Oviedo says, "Music education should be an indispensable part of every child's education, given the proven positive and long-lasting impacts to development of the brain, creative thinking and important listening and social skills."

"Music education should be an indispensable part of every child's education, given the proven, positive and long-lasting impacts to development..."

The Benefits • Music education can improve basic memory skills. Studies show musically trained individuals develop better working memories. A working memory allows us to remember things even while our minds are busy with another task—a crucial skill for problem-solving in math and comprehension in reading.

• Music exposure builds creativity, empathy and social awareness. Neuroscientists have found increased communication between the two sides of the brain in musically trained children, which is believed to increase creativity. Tests show that participating in collaborative music-making increases empathy for others. Making music requires cooperation and focused attention, which are valuable skills in personal relationships.

• Music instructions can help improve test scores. A 2007 study conducted at the University of Kansas showed increased test scores for students who had participated in quality music instruction. Whether music instruction was received in the home or in more formal settings, a quality experience with music instruction was key to higher test scores in English and math.

Time and again, research has shown that music training leads to lasting brain changes that increase your child's capacity to perform tasks requiring sustained attention, careful listening and engaged reading. Music training also builds creativity, encourages empathy for others and builds a healthy sense of self-confidence.

Jan Pierce, MEd, is a retired teacher and freelance writer who specializes in articles about parenting, education and family life. She is the author of Homegrown Readers: Simple Ways to Help Your Child Learn to Read.

26 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2019

PLAY TIPS: Holly Lesnick, 0wner of Grow & Sing Studios and Kindermusik trainer says, “Music is a multi-sensory experience which ignites all areas of a child’s brain.

Before a baby learns to speak, language sounds a lot like music. Therefore, music helps children’s acquisition of language and communication with the world around them.”

ACTIVITIES TO INTRODUCE MUSIC INTO YOUR FAMILY CULTURE 1. Rock, sway and sing – Despite how you feel about your singing voice, your voice is your baby’s favorite sound in the world. Singing together helps create a parent-child bond.

2. Routine songs – Sing your way through your day. Songs for routines help young children feel safe in an unpredictable world. You can pick one familiar tune that you know and place it in routines such as waking up, meal time, bath time and bed time.

3. Search for the music all around you – What can you find in your house to make music with? Wooden spoons, metal bowls or wind chimes? Step outside and listen to the sounds; there is music everywhere! Label what you hear to your baby. Each time you label, you are building your child’s sound vocabulary.

Kindermusik classes at Grow & Sing Studios are available at several locations around Central Florida.

Book, Music, & Lyrics by Joan Cushing Based on the book Miss Nelson is Missing! and Miss Nelson is Back by Harry Alford

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Raising Little Artists

Dance

From ballet and tap to hip hop and ballroom, there are tons of opportunities for kids to express their creative sides through dance classes available in Central Florida.

Jessie Poole, owner of Grace Full Dance Academy in Casselberry, offers the following benefits of dance and movement classes for children.

Beyond Fortnite flossing and impromptu living room dance parties, instructional dance classes are a great form of exercise that keeps kids moving. Children gain flexibility, range of motion, physical strength and stamina by participating in dance! They learn about body awareness, posture, balance, muscle strength and coordination. Not only is dance a great vehicle for artistic expression, it also allows kids to reach a level of fitness that is unparalleled by other activities, and it's fun to explore. Bonus: dance goes even deeper, beyond the physical, to the spiritual aspect of connecting the body and the mind.

Social skills are also deeply engrained in a dance program. Children learn to work together as a team to coordinate a routine, which develops trust and cooperation. By learning new skills alongside others, dancers bond with each other and begin to understand what it takes to collectively work toward one common goal. Interacting with the instructor teaches children how to effectively communicate their needs, opinions and ideas.

Dance can enhance emotional intelligence, giving adolescents an opportunity to express themselves beyond words in a way that is beneficial to their mental health. Dance practice helps children learn how to identify and express different emotions through movement.

In today’s environment, more opportunities to develop grit can only be a good thing. The discipline and focus required to learn dance moves are skills that can be translated into the classroom for a better educational experience for any kid. In addition, dance improves memory by making children recall steps, routines and patterns, making it a great brain exercise too.

Children's self-esteem grows as they start to get a better sense of control of their bodies while adjusting to the movements and postures required in dance. As they become more comfortable in their own skin, their confidence and self-esteem will flourish, which will foster a more positive attitude throughout daily life in general.

Unlike other artistic endeavors, dance is unique in that it provides a creative outlet along with physical rigor. Plus, with technology taking over today's culture, dance class includes face-toface interaction and some fun without a mobile device.

GRACE FULL DANCE ACADEMY is located in Casselberry and strives to build a dance foundation within all students that promotes physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual growth through movement.

DID YOU KNOW? The Orlando Ballet School is regarded as one of the finest training academies in the world and is the official school of the Orlando Ballet. The school has been named “Outstanding School” at the New York finals of Youth America Grand Prix three times. With two locations in Central Florida, Orlando Ballet School adheres to the American Ballet Theatre® National Training curriculum, and American Ballet Theatre® certified teachers provide disciplined training for dancers of all ages.

MOTIV DANCE is an all hip hop/urban dance studio created by local dance phenom Marlee Hightower. She has created a commercial studio concept right here in Orlando — much like L.A.’s legendary dance complexes. Motiv Crew, a force to be reckoned with on the national dance stage, recently competed on NBC's World of Dance.

Drop-in classes are available Monday–Friday at 6 p.m., 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. Motiv offers training for beginners and advanced dancers. All ages are welcome. motivdance.com

28 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2019

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Photography by Serena Nicole Studios Wardrobe Styling by Heather Reneau Hair & Makeup by Jennifer Beverly Shot on location at The Heavy

Sofia: Custom “College Park Kid” t-shirt, $20, and Rylee + Cru Mila maxi skirt in seafoam, $38.50, from Yaya + Lou in College Park; Madden Girl Brycee rose gold sandals, $44.99, from Shoe Carnival at Altamonte Mall

31 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2019

Niam Gray Label teal t-shirt, $32, and Storm Stripe Hawthorne drawstring trouser, $38.50, from Yaya + Lou in College Park Bastian Quincy Mae sleeveless jumpsuit in sage, $35, from Yaya + Lou in College Park Sofia Rylie + Cru Layla mini dress in Tropical, $37, from Yaya + Lou in College Park

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Bastian: Rylee + Cru Monstera raw edge tee, $31; ivory drawstring trousers, $39, and Zimmerman brown boots, $68, from Yaya + Lou in College Park

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Niam Straw pattern fedora, $8.99, and textured long sleeve t-shirt, $13.96, from GAP at Altamonte Mall; Cat & Jack blue suede high-top sneakers, $22.99, from Target in Oviedo

Alina Noahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ark pinafore dress in marigold, $60, from Tugboat & the Bird in Winter Park; Avarcas Frailera french blue sandals, $59, from Yaya + Lou in College Park

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Caleb H&M dark green twill shorts, $19.99, and grey hoodie, $24.99, from H&M at Altamonte Mall Kylie Habitual Girl Lyanna jumpsuit, $42, and GB Girls natural woven purse, $38, from Dillards at Oviedo Mall; Madden Girl Bartlet footbed sandals in cognac, $49.99, from Shoe Carnival at Altamonte Mall 3636 PLAYGROUND Oct // Oct Nov2018 2019 PLAYGROUND Sep

Caleb First Wave jogger pants, $32, and “Friday” t-shirt, $14, from Dillards in Oviedo Mall; Adidas X_PLR Casual Sneakers, $64.99, from Journeys Kidz at Altamonte Mall

3737 PLAYGROUND Nov2018 2019 PLAYGROUND Oct Sep // Oct

PLAY

CANDI SUSHI WORKSHOP AT EPCOT'S FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL

GO PLAY!

Fall Family Events

Central Florida is bursting at the seams with quality events for families!

Words by Wendy Meyer

FOODIE FUN:

Tantalize your palate with fun foodie festivals.

INTERNATIONAL FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL EPCOT, WALT DISNEY WORLD Now through November 29 We know you want to go to the Food & Wine Festival with your adult friends, but if you have to bring the kids, you’ll be happy to know there are activities just for them! While you explore global flavors and cocktails, the kids will enjoy the Ratatouille Hide and Squeak Scavenger Hunt and get cheesy with Emile’s Fromage Montage!

Register the kids for the Candy Sushi Workshop in The Land and hit the Disney du Jour Dance Party at Future World! disneyworld.disney.go.com

EAST END MARKET

HOLLERBACH’S OKTOBERFEST 2019 WILLOW TREE CAFÉ, SANFORD October 11–13 Don’t miss this annual outdoor Oktoberfest German Street Party with traditional cuisine from the most authentic German restaurant this side of the pond. Don your dirndls and lederhosen, dance to polka music and have more fun than anyone should be allowed to have! hollerbachs.com TASTE OF THORNTON PARK THORNTON PARK October 17 This downtown district boasts some of the best restaurants in town, and you don’t want to miss this outdoor event featuring food, drinks and live jams! eventbrite.com EVENING EXCHANGE EAST END MARKET October 18 & November 15 On the third Friday of each month, families can visit this food and culture hub to try a little bit of everything Orlando has to offer with this collaborative market featuring food and drinks, arts and crafts, workshops and demonstrations from the tapestry of vibrant talent that makes up The City Beautiful. eastendmkt.com

Photo: Steven Miller Photography 38 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2019

CENTRAL FLORIDA VEG FEST FESTIVAL PARK October 26 Don’t just tell your kids to eat their veggies, celebrate those veggies at this year’s Veg Fest! Meet local growers and learn about local earth-friendly programs, vegan cuisines and the benefits of a plant-based diet.

Check out cooking demonstrations that will surely give you and your family a few ideas to whip up your own tasty vegetables. cfvegfest.org MR. RICHARD’S TEATIME DANCE PARTY INFUSION TEA November 1 Sip some tea, eat some yummy food and let the kids get the wiggles out during Mr. Richard’s show. Kids are always encouraged to dance and sing along at Infusion Tea on the first Friday of every month. mrrichard.net

Nov. 1

MR. RICHARD

Oct. 12

KIDDIE CULTURE:

Cultivate your creative side with these artsy-fartsy gatherings.

HOW I BECAME A PIRATE ORLANDO REPERTORY THEATRE October 5–November 10 This children's musical theater never disappoints. A special sensory-friendly performance for this show is on October 20 and an ASL show is on November 4. orlandorep.com PEPPA PIG LIVE! HARD ROCK LIVE October 3 Everyone’s favorite piggy pal, Peppa, comes to life on stage at Hard Rock Live! Don’t miss this amazing adventure tailor-made for your pint-sized cuties! hardrock.com

KIDS MACRAME WORKSHOP GOOD CROWD, COLLEGE PARK October 12 Kids ages 8 and up can enjoy a hands-on macrame workshop at this new, eclectic boutique in College Park. inklingbykate.com COME OUT WITH PRIDE 2019 LAKE EOLA PARK October 12 Orlando’s most colorful parade and festival celebrates and supports the LGBTQ+ community. This year’s Family Zone is sponsored by Kid’s Fringe! comeoutwithpride.com TODDLER TUESDAY THE MENNELLO MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART October 15 & November 19 Bring your strollers and littlest ones for a fun-filled story time and art activity. PLAY Tip: Plan for extra time to allow the kids to frolic in the sculpture garden. Mennello’s curator of education will share a children’s book followed by a visual arts activity.

Great for ages 2–5. Toddler Tuesday is included in regular admission ticket prices.

Mennello Museum members and children under the age of 6 get in for free. mennellomuseum.org

ASIAN LANTERN FESTIVAL

BABY SHARK LIVE! DR. PHILLIPS CENTER October 4 You may be sick of this song, but your kids are not. Take a deep dive into the underwater adventures of Baby Shark! drphillipscenter.org FAMILY DAY ORLANDO MUSEUM OF ART October 5 This is a fun and educational experience for families to learn more about art and culture together. Bonus: Family Days are always free for the whole family. omart.org 39 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2019

MISS NELSON IS MISSING! ORLANDO SHAKES October 17–November 22 One of our favorite books comes to life on stage in this live theater performance created especially for young audiences! orlandoshakes.org/show/miss-nelson-ismissing/ IMMERSE 2019 DOWNTOWN ORLANDO October 18–19 The Creative City Project brings you an experience unlike any before! The streets of downtown Orlando are shut off for an arts festival with performances and interactive experiences from Blue Man Group to Architects of Air, from small surprises to larger than life performances. Children 12 and under are FREE! creativecityproject.com ASIAN LANTERN FESTIVAL: INTO THE WILD CENTRAL FLORIDA ZOO Wednesdays–Sundays, November 20–January 12 Experience a world-class night-time display of over 30 artistically designed, animalthemed Asian lanterns and lights artfully displayed around the Zoo. Using modern lighting techniques, see the ancient tradition in lantern-making skill combined with new creative ideas for a unique and entertaining festival for families. centralfloridazoo.org/lanterns Starts

Nov. 20

PLAY | Family Events Calendar

HALLOWEEN HAUNTS

Grab your broom and your little ghouls and goblins for a spooky good time at these events!

Now thru Oct. 27

MICKEY’S NOT SO SCARY HALLOWEEN PARTY MAGIC KINGDOM Now through November 1 An evening V.I.P. Disney experience with grinning ghosts, spooky snacks, our favorite Disney parade and a special appearance

by Jack Skellington and Sally. Don’t forget your costumes! disneyworld.disney.go.com SEAWORLD SPOOKTACULAR SEAWORLD ORLANDO Weekends, September 21−October 27 There is an ocean of family fun when SeaWorld celebrates Halloween! Not only will the animals be ready for some spooky fun, but so will your pals from Sesame Street. Get those costumes ready for some trick-or-treating and memory-making! seaworld.com HAUNTING TALES HARRY P. LEU GARDENS October 11 A spine-chilling storytelling event! Stories for all ages begin at 7:30 p.m. After the intermission, the wickedest of storytellers will come forth (recommended for kids 12 and over after intermission). Bring a picnic and your chairs. leugardens.org

MOVIE MONDAY: HOCUS POCUS A LA CART ORLANDO October 14 Join the Sanderson Sisters for a silly, spooky film and yummy food from amazing food trucks, with raffles and themed prizes! alacartorlando.com NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS DR. PHILLIPS CENTER October 18 This is a great opportunity to experience Tim Burton’s cult classic with performed live with a symphony orchestra. drphillipscenter.org ZOO BOO BASH CENTRAL FLORIDA ZOO October 19–20, 26–27 Trick-or-treat at the wildest place in town! Bring your treat bag and wear your costume for Skeleton Storytime, a costume contest, a bubble show and more! centralfloridazoo.org

SPOOKY SKATE RDV ICE DEN, MAITLAND October 26 Chill out and enjoy trick-or-treating, a costume contest and other family fun during this Halloween party on ice!

Admission is $12.50, but you receive $1 off if you dress in costume.

RDVIceDen.com MR. RICHARD AND THE POUND HOUNDS HALLOWEEN CONCERT ORLANDO REPERTORY THEATRE October 26–27 Get down and spooky with Orlando’s favorite rocker! With sing-along tunes about fish, skunks, cool snakes and Halloween fun, Mr. Richard & The Pound Hounds play great music for hip kids! orlandorep.com MALL-O-WEEN THE FLORIDA MALL October 31 Your favorite little monsters are invited for a fun and safe night. Kids are encouraged to dress up and haunt The Florida Mall. There will also be face painting, a photo booth, special character experiences and more. simon.com/mall/the-florida-mall

ENZIAN’S KIDS HALLOWEEN PARTY ENZIAN THEATER, MAITLAND October 20 Grab the gang for a costume party featuring Casper, the friendly ghost! Dress your ghouls in costume and enjoy lunch, a movie, games and fun for kids. enzian.org

Oct. 26

HOWL-O-WEEN BARK PARK, OVIEDO October 21 Celebrate Halloween with your fur baby at this FREE event for a pawsome time!

Make sure Fido is dressed to impress for the canine costume contest. Doggie treats and ice cream and a variety of people food will be available for purchase. cityofoviedo.net/814/Howl-O-Ween-at-theBark-Park SPOOKY SKATE AT RDV

40 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2019

HAUNTING TALES SPINE-CHILLING STORYTELLING EVENT

.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11• 7:30 P.M. One by one, frightening tales will be spun.

Don’t get scared!

Pack a dinner picnic or purchase food at the gardens and bring seating, weather permitting. Gates open at 6:00 p.m.

ADMISSION

$10 adult • $8 Leu Member adult • $6 child (ages 4–17 years)

Leu Members may purchase up to 2 adult tickets at member price per valid membership.

Purchase tickets at leugardens.org

Sales tax included and online fees will apply.

Warning: Stories told after intermission might not be suitable for young children under 12 years of age.

Children 13 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

1920 North Forest Ave. Orlando, FL 32803 407.246.2620

leugardens.org

PLAY | Family Events Calendar

FALL FESTIVALS

Gather up your little pumpkins at these fantastic celebrations of autumn.

Oct. 5Dec. 1 ARTOBERFEST DOWNTOWN WINTER SPRINGS October 19–20 ARToberFEST is celebrating 12 years of exceptional art, tasty German food, rockin’ entertainment, activities for kiddos and much more! wsfota.org

PAINTED OAKS ACADEMY Photo: Simply Shelby Photography

CENTRAL FLORIDA’S FESTIVAL FOR GOOD ORLANDO BREWING October 5 Join Orlando Brewing for a fun and unique family-friendly festival that focuses on learning to live sustainably. Live music, activities for kids, local vendors and more!

Get out and learn how to do some good for your community. orlandobrewing.com PUMPKIN PATCH & CORN MAZE PAINTED OAKS ACADEMY, ORLANDO October 5–December 1 Join Painted Oaks for autumn celebrations done Central Florida style, including pumpkins, ponies and plenty of hayrides.

There is so much fall fun in one spot — you and your family will not want to miss this! cornmazeorlando.com SCOTT’S MAZE ADVENTURES LONG AND SCOTT FARMS Weekends beginning October 5 Looking for an ah-MAZE-ing good time?

Then bring the family and check out the corn mazes super slide, a jumping pillow, a zip line, a huge fort-like playground, hayrides and more! longandscottfarms.com

36TH ANNUAL FALL FESTIVAL LUCAS NURSERY & BUTTERFLY ENCOUNTER October 12–13, 10AM-4PM A weekend of family fun activities that include tractor-pulled hayrides, a pictureperfect pumpkin patch, pumpkin painting, horse & pony rides, bounce houses, dunk tank, face painting, food trucks and live music. Admission and parking for the festival is free. lukasnursery.com 46TH ANNUAL AUTUMN ART FESTIVAL CENTRAL PARK, DOWNTOWN WINTER PARK October 12–13 Family fun and fine art all come together for another epic art fest on Park Ave. winterpark.org COMMUNITYFEST ST. MARY MAGDALEN CATHOLIC PARISH, ALTAMONTE SPRINGS October 18–20 CommunityFest boasts the best of fall festivals: food, rides, raffles, Closest to the Pin competition, live music and more. stmarymagdalen.org

42 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2019

MAITLAND FALL FESTIVAL LAKE LILY PARK October 26, 2–5 p.m.

Kids will love hanging around this beautiful lake, enjoying the playground and bounces houses, slides, carnival games, train rides, food, music, a costume contest, a hula hoop contest and more. This event is suggested for ages 2–8. itsmymaitland.org MOMMY & ME PUMPKIN PAINTING GOOD GROWD, COLLEGE PARK November 8 Good Crowd, a unique gift shop in College Park, is partnering with Friendlily Press to create this fun hands-on workshop for you and your little one (age 3 and up). Your ticket includes one (tiny) pumpkin for you and your kiddo to paint together. myenlightenclass.com/classes

Nov. 8

FREE GIFT WITH TOUR November 20, 2019 – January 12, 2020 Wednesday – Sunday • 6 PM – 10 PM



OVER 30 THEMED LANTERN DISPLAYS

 

UNIQUE CRAFTS AND ARTISANS





VARIOUS FOOD TRUCK VENDORS



General Admission: $18.50/per person 4-Pack: $50 Children 2 and under are free

enroll your 'little learner' today...

407.365.6800

Infants, Ones, Twos, Threes and VPK Preschool Gymnastics Classes Parent - Child Classes All NEW Muscle Minds Art Class Ninja Kid & Princess Ballet Rascals Cheer Team Birthday Parties SOME PROGRAMS BEGIN AS EARLY AS FOUR MONTHS

3 7 5 5 W. S e m i n o l e B l vd . S a n f o r d , F L • I - 4 E x i t 1 0 4 4 07. 3 2 3 . 4 4 5 0 • w w w. c e n t r a l f l o r i d a zo o . o r g / l a n te r n s Additional fees may apply for certain activities.

Presented in partnership with Tianyu Arts & Culture, Inc.

stop in for a tour!

www.akidsgym.com 1495 EVANS STREET OVIEDO, FL 32765

42 PLAYGROUND May / June 2018

PLAY SEE/SAW

Moms' Morning Out Photos by Jessica Friend We had a blast celebrating the kids going back to school at PLAYGROUND Magazine's second annual Moms' Morning Out event at Winter Park Village, sponsored by AdventHealth for Women. We shopped, we got pampered and we brunched — some of us even exercised together at The Bar Method! The day started with a champagne toast at The Hangry Bison and a celebratory photo opp. Then we relaxed during our manicure or pedicure at Pristine Nail Lounge and shopped special discounts at J.Jill, Francesca’s, White House Black Market and Ulta. We wrapped up the afternoon with brunch at Bar Louie. PLAYGROUND Magazine thanks all the moms who participated in this event — we loved spending the day with you!

44 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2019

PLAY SEE/SAW

Mommy & Me at The Bar Method Photos by JNR Lifestyle Photography This past August, The Bar Method at Winter Park Village hosted a Mommy & Me Bar Express class for moms and their kiddos (ages 5+). The Bar Method is a one-hour, no impact interval training workout that includes effective, isolated movements to create a strong body. Guests also enjoyed a pop-up shop from Funky AF & Lil Funky (customized clothing), raffles, treats and a braid bar. The class required a minimum donation of $10 to Hope for More (hopeformorefoundation.org). Hope for Moreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission is to identify and fund outstanding local nonprofits to further their efforts in outreach, advocacy and fundraising. Follow The Bar Method on social media for future event dates and details. @barmethodwinterpark @TheBarMethodOrlandoWinterPark

45 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2019

PLAY SEE / SAW

Good Crowd Kids' Workshops Photos by Sarah Johnson-Markve Good Crowd (goodcrowdshop.com) is an awesome new gift shop in College Park. In addition to funky gifts with local flair, they also offer kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; workshops with different themes and activities each month. At the Gnomes + Terrarium workshop, author Lisa Bell read her childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s book Norman the Watchful Gnome (normangnomebooks.com), and then Petals & Stems Market (petalsandstemsmarket.com) led the kids in a make-andtake terrarium activity. On October 12, check out the Macrame Workshop with Inkling by Kate (inklingbykate.com). Cost is $25; registration is required. On November 8, try the Mommy & Me Pumpkin Painting Class with Friendlily Press (friendlilypress. com). Cost is $20; ages 3 and up. Stop by Good Crowd on Edgewater Drive to see all this College Park adorableness for yourself. 2812 Edgewater Dr., Orlando

46 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2019

PLAY SEE/SAW

Grand Opening of The Glass Slipper Boutique An adorable new place has recently opened its magical doors for Orlando families to have the time of their lives pretending, playing and partying! The Glass Slipper offers fairytale costumes for kids, a salon for hair and makeup styling and a unique venue for events large and small.

During the grand opening, guests enjoyed dress-up fun, face painting and a special storytime with a unicorn princess and a pirate. An enchanted day was had by all.

Call today to make a reservation for a magical makeover at this new hotspot.

8600 Vineland Ave., Suite 104, Orlando 407-704-0475 | glassslipperorlando.com

47 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2019

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Food & Restaurant Guide Here’s a helpful list of food-related resources, from family-friendly restaurants and food hubs to nonprofits promoting healthy eating.

Dexter’s is a local contemporary restaurant where you can enjoy great food and live entertainment. Our executive chef, Rich Kutza, has mastered creating dishes that are not only fresh but locally sourced. Dexter’s is known for excellent food and service, including our award-winning Sunday brunch with bottomless mimosas. From a simple build-your-own sandwich to a carefully prepared entrée, everything is made fresh.

1145 Townpark Ave., #1201, Lake Mary dexterslakemary.com

East End Market is a neighborhood market and food hall in the Audubon Park Garden District of Orlando, Florida.

The market showcases some of Central Florida’s top food entrepreneurs, tradespeople, artists and chefs. The two-story structure is home to a dozen merchants, a large event space, a demonstration kitchen, an incubator kitchen, offices, retail shops, an award-winning caterer and a world-class ramen restaurant.

3201 Corrine Dr., Orlando • 321-236-3316 Info@EastEndMkt.com • EastEndMkt.com

Edible Education Experience For seed-to-table family-friendly events, special event rentals at the Emeril Lagasse Foundation Kitchen House and Culinary Garden, and helping Central Florida communities build food confidence, College Park’s Edible Education Experience invites you to learn more about our nonprofit at: 407-256-7760 abby@edibleed.org EdibleEd.org

48 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2019

Emmabean is a locally owned and operated good food business that specializes in delivering school lunches to kiddos in the Orlando Metro Area. Working out of East End Market in Audubon Park, Emmabean focuses on organic ingredients and responsible food sourcing. Current school partners are: Lake Forrest Preparatory School, Park Maitland, The Christ School, The Geneva School, The Park House Academy and Saint Margaret Mary. Custom boxed lunches and boutique catered events are also available.

Emmabean.com

Equitable Food Initiative When you see the Equitable Food Initiative’s Responsibly Grown, Farm Worker Assured™ sticker on select produce at Costco and Whole Foods, you can be sure the workers harvesting your fresh produce are not only treated well and compensated fairly, but they are also engaged to identify problems and solutions that impact the safety of your food.

Equitablefood.org

Produce for Kids believes in creating a healthier generation through simple recipes and inspiration. Visit produceforkids. com to find more than 500 registered dietitian-approved ideas for breakfast, lunch, snack and dinner. While you are there, find hundreds of topics from dealing with your picky eater to getting a healthy weeknight dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.

Produceforkids.com

The Ravenous Pig James Beard-nominated chef duo James and Julie Petrakis are at the helm of this critically acclaimed restaurant serving sustainable food created with passion and prepared using ingredients sourced in Florida. The Ravenous Pig offers an extensive menu ranging from traditional pub fare to housemade pastas, creative salads and fresh seafood in addition to seasonal cocktails, an extensive wine list and craft beer brewed on-site at the newly minted Ravenous Pig Brewing Co. Dinner served daily, lunch served Wednesday–Saturday and brunch served on Sunday. 565 W Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park 407-628-2333 • TheRavenousPig.com

YMCA of Central Florida The YMCA isn’t just about exercise and fitness; it’s also about nutrition and healthy eating habits. On the website, you’ll find easy-to-follow recipes developed by their very own Chef Gary Appelsies, tips for healthy eating and a handy Florida produce guide. ymcacentralflorida.com/health-wellness

49 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2019

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Locally-Owned, Kid-Approved Check out these great, independent resources for Central Florida families!

Schedule a FREE trial lesson & enroll by December 31 and we will waive your Annual Membership Fee!

Independent Executive Director

($25 value)

Christina Lahr

LESSONS FOR KIDS 4 MOS - 12 YRS FLEXIBLE CLASS TIMES

cplahr@hotmail.com | mythirtyone.com/cplahr facebook.com/groups/cgifts | 407.766.8207 TEXT me for a catalog!

30-MINUTE WEEKLY LESSONS SMALL CLASS SIZES

Buy. Host. Join.

WINTER PARK | 407.614.6363

SCHOOL thatLUNCH Yum!

CORPORATE BOXED LUNCHES & BOUTIQUE CATERING ARE ALSO AVAILABLE! Now serving: Park Maitland, The Christ School, St. Margaret Mary, The Parke House Academy, The Geneva School, and Lake Forrest Preparatory School.

Contact us to find out how Emmabean can feed your little Sprouts!

FALL FESTIVAL & PUMPKIN PATCH

SPANISH IMMERSION ENRICHMENT PROGRAM

Oct 5-6, 12-13, 19-20, 26-27

Food • Face Painting • Playground Farm Animals • Baloon Benders 15100 Lake Pickett Rd., EAST ORLANDO 407-929-0970

PaintedOaks_3.5x2_1019-2.indd 1

Toddlers-5th Grade

Homeschool • After School Sat. Program • Private Classes Mommy & Me • Day Camps Cooking Class

HOME OF

Corn Maze Orlando

Oct 5-Dec 1

2902 N. Orange Ave. Ste. 206 • Orlando Fl 32804 321.460.2844 • admin@allkidspanish.com • www.allkidspanish.com

9/24/19 11:26 AM

Private & Small Group Lessons Camps • Special Events Ages 5 and up

Combines surfing, yoga and meditation to connect the youth to Mother Nature

407-747-5808 • mollim13@yahoo.com • mollimillersurfschool.com Professional/competitive surfing experience, CPR/First Aid Certified, 2003 USSF National Champion

Chemistry * Slime * Space Dinos * Wizards & More!

Oviedo Mall Lab, West Oaks Mall Lab, or at YOUR Location!

/MSCentralFlorida /MSCentralFlorida

386-898-4570

Advertise your locally-owned business in the next issue of PLAYGROUND Magazine.

Contact Jessica Ventura today for affordable rates and package options: 407-243-8253 jessica@playgroundmagazine.com

November 25, 2019 – January 5, 2020 Make unforgettable holiday memories this season at Gaylord Palms Resort.

Enjoy heartwarming visits with Santa, Snow Tubing, Cirque Dreams Unwrapped stage show, Mrs. Claus’ Christmas Traditions, and our signature 9-degree attraction ICE! featuring THE POLAR EXPRESS™.

Stay overnight to experience it all! Tickets and Packages on Sale Now.

ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.com | (407) 586-2000 THE POLAR EXPRESS and all related characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s19).

PEPSI, PEPSI-COLA and the Pepsi Globe are registered trademarks of PepsiCo, Inc.

KISSIMMEE, FL

feel hopeful her future will be seizure-free

As concerning as childhood seizures can be, it’s reassuring to know that some of the nation’s most experienced pediatric neurologists, epileptologists, neuropsychologists and neurosurgeons are nearby. With a team of specialists dedicated to curing epilepsy, Central Florida’s first Level 4 epilepsy center for children and adults, advanced neuro-diagnostic testing capabilities and more, our world-class neuroscience program is helping kids live seizure-free lives every day. Feel confident. Feel hopeful. Feel whole.

19-AHFC-02032

AdventHealthForChildren.com

for Children Formerly Florida Hospital for Children