South Florida Parenting June 2016

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JUNE 2016

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Joe DiMaggio

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DEPARTMENTS 6

Miami MVP SEE OUR

GIVEAW AYS Page 16

Editor’s Note

Perseverance needed in stepchild bonding

South Florida News

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Single moms get a Facebook shoutout

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Nutrition Coconut oil choices

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Family Health & Safety E-cigarette poisonings are on the rise

Summer Brain Drain

Travel

28

Help kids develop a love for reading

Taking the kids to Cuba

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Stuff We Love Star Wars rafts and models, and soap for dad

26

Mom-Approved Advice

Transgender Kids

Staying safe this summer

52

South Florida’s Jazz leads the charge for acceptance

Loud Moms

35

Learn to listen to your kids

53

MoMENts Dad's cupcake crisis mirrors the day of birth

54

Glamazon

Paternity

CALENDAR Calendar of Events Our day-by-day calendar for June, plus Theater, Shows & Concerts, Fairs & Festivals and Exhibits for Families

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Introducing alternatives to rice cereal

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Out & About

South Florida’s summer events SPECIAL AFTER-SCHOOL GUIDE INSIDE

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JUNE 2016

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TO GUIDE ER FUN SUMM

Teaching: ACCEPTANCE SEE

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Sites to check out for family fun this summer.

Preteen Helping girls grow a thick skin

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Baby Food

Summer A-Z

The new all-in dads

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44

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STAGES

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Ditch the pack-n-play and grab the Diono Dreamliner

You voted for South Florida’s best teachers! See who won.

Financial Matters The money lessons found in stories

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Baby: Stuff We Love

Rockin’ Teacher

Tips from a dad Survivor

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22

Dear Stepdad

JENNIFER JHON

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Dolphins player says football lessons help with fatherhood

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editor's » note

A full (to the brim) house I have more reasons than usual to honor queen bed and a recliner. my dad this Father’s Day. After decades Four days before closing, he suggested I of living on my own, I’ve moved back in keep the small armoire from the bedroom with my parents – and I brought set to use for storage. Two days my kids and the family cat with before closing, after watching me. me accept an offer for only half Moving back in wasn’t the of the bedroom set, he agreed original plan. Yes, I wanted to to put a second armoire in the sell the house quickly and get guest room and store the bed in rid of all the bills that came with his garage. it. But I thought we would have I thought we were all set. time to find a space of our own. I Then, one day before closing, JENNIFER JHON had started looking around, and I we actually attempted to move found a few leads that looked promising. a four-bedroom household into a twoBut I wasn’t counting on having to stage bedroom, one-bathroom house. repeat garage sales to get rid of all the stuff Oh, my goodness. It looked like a box we’ve accumulated over the years; that bomb went off at my father’s house. We took time. And finding the perfect place filled the garage in 30 minutes and spent to land was harder than I expected. (The the next two hours filling up his lovely, Craigslist definition of “good” is different screened-in front porch. There will be no from mine, apparently.) more lazy mornings out there, at least not My dad recognized the approaching until I either store our stuff elsewhere or crisis. “You know, I think I’ll go ahead have yet another garage sale. and set up the bunk beds in the guest bedThe kids, of course, are thrilled to be in room,” he said five days before the closing the new house, even though it is smaller on my house. Meanwhile, I begged people than our old home. Their Papa has all on Freecycle to give a good home to a kinds of gadgets they don’t usually get

Use Code “sfpbp” at Checkout to receive a COMPLIMENTARY Just Surf It! Backpack with your order ord

to experience at home. He also has minimarshmallows in his cabinets for snack time.

I have realized something through this experience: What happens to me happens to my dad, even though he gets little input into many of my decisions. It is a sobering thought. I will be in the same place when my kids head out on their own for college or a career.

My dad has managed it all with good grace, which is a relief. After the frustration of the move, I told him this morning, “I hope you are OK with me being here, because I am never moving again.”

He chuckled and said, “I think you should vow to never accumulate so much stuff again.”

As usual, father knows best.

Write to us Mail: E-mail:

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Gizmo and Molly plush toys

JUNE 2016

5/18/16 4:59 PM

Safety keeps the fun in pool time.

A fun day at the pool can quickly get drained away, especially when kids get caught up in the thrill of the moment and forget to be safe. Should an accident happen, HCA kid-friendly ERs are nearby. Our full-service hospitals are staffed with experienced doctors and nurses who handle all types of injuries. So, when your child needs expert emergency care, you can count on us to provide it 24/7.

Know and act upon these important pool safety tips: • Keep a close eye on your kids while they are in the pool.

• Ensure your kids know where water is deep and shallow.

• Have your kids stay away from pool drains.

• Practice water safety skills like first aid, emergency response and CPR. Make sure there is appropriate safety equipment near the pool, such as life rings, reaching poles and a first-aid kit.

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south florida » news

FACEBOOK EXECUTIVE PAYS TRIBUTE TO SINGLE MOTHERS ASSOCIATED PRESS REPORT

Emma and Noah remain nation’s most popular baby names ORLANDO SENTINEL REPORT

Hello, again, Emma and Noah. For the second year in a row, those two are the most popular baby names in the United States, according to the annual list of names released by the Social Security Administration.

The new list is for the most popular names given to babies born in 2015.

For both boys and girls, there were few changes from 2014. On the girls’ list, Madison fell off the Top 10, to be replaced by Harper, which was 11th in 2014.

On the boys’ list, Daniel lost his place in the Top 10 and was replaced by Benjamin, which had been no. 12.

The top-ranked girl names for 2015 were, in order, Emma, Olivia, Sophia, Ava, Isabella, Mia, Abigail, Emily, Charlotte and Harper.

The top-ranked boy names were, in order, Noah, Liam, Mason, Jacob, William, Ethan, James, Alexander, Michael and Benjamin.

DEALS FOR DADS Fathers can get free admission (and half-off admission for four guests) to Miami Seaquarium June 12-19 by bringing in a Father’s Day card for JJ, the park’s patriarch bottlenose dolphin.

Even better, dads interested in experiencing a dolphin, seal or reef encounter program can get a free interaction when booking a second person during Father’s Day week. Just call 305-365-2501, and mention the Father’s Day offer.

Learn more at www. miamiseaquarium.com.

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Facebook’s no. 2 executive, Sheryl Sandberg, says she never realized how hard it is to be a single parent until her husband died a year ago.

In a Mother’s Day weekend post on Facebook, Sandberg said the odds are stacked against single moms.

Many live in poverty, work two jobs or don’t get paid leave to care for themselves or children if they get sick, she said. “I did not really get how hard it is to succeed at work when you are overwhelmed at home,” Sandberg wrote.

Sandberg says she never realized how often situations come up when she’s unable to stop her son or daughter from crying. “What would Dave do if he were here?” she asks herself. Sandberg writes that she never realized how many events such as father-daughter dances there are at schools and how hard they are for children without dads.

She called on leaders to rethink public and corporate policies to better support single mothers.

The United States, she says, is the only developed economy in the world that does not provide workers paid maternity leave. She says we need to rethink policies to better support single mothers. The post doesn’t address Facebook’s own policies. Facebook does offer U.S. employees up to four months of paid parental leave. It’s among several high-tech companies that offer benefits related to childbirth.

Sandberg concedes that she’s fortunate not to have the financial worries that many single moms face.

She admits that, in her 2013 book, “Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead,” she should have written more about women raising children without a partner. “I will never experience and understand all of the challenges most single moms face, but I understand a lot more than I did a year ago.”

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family » nutrition

Cuckoo for Coconut Oil

BY RACHEL SESTRICH, RD, LD

Coconut oil has gotten a lot of hype recently, so how do you know if you should be using it?

Coconut oil is extracted from the fruit of fresh coconuts. It raises HDL (good) cholesterol, but it is a saturated fat, which can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. These dual consequences cause controversy about its use, and people are often advised not to use it or to use it sparingly.

SO WHAT MAKES COCONUT OIL SO GREAT? Although coconut oil is primarily saturated fat, it contains medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are a type of fatty acid. MCTs go straight from the liver to the digestive track, where they are used as a quick energy source. Therefore, many people believe coconut oil can help with weight loss.

Studies have shown that it may help reduce waist size but not aid in significant weight loss. But MCTs can also help with disorders of the brain, such as epilepsy and Alzheimer’s.

and therefore the best choice. Extra virgin coconut oil is no different from virgin, so either is fine. Coconut oil can be pricey, so shop around for the best deal.

Coconut oil provides a different, possibly more favorable, taste to foods but it is high in fat and calories: 1 tablespoon contains 13.6 grams of fat and 117 calories.

As with any fats, regardless of health benefits, moderation is important. Just because a food is labeled as a “super food,” it should not be added to every-

thing; more is not always better.

GRAB-N-GO Enjoy pure, unrefined coconut oil from Carrington Farms in convenient, portable Coconut Oil Paks. The packets are ideal for trav travel, delivering 1 Tablespoon of coco coconut oil for topical or internal u use. Warm the packet in your h hands to liquify the oil if needed; no refrigeration is required.

Carrington Farms coconut oil is available at Target, Walmart and online at carringtonfarms.com

HOW TO USE COCONUT OIL Coconut oil has a nutty, sweet taste, so it is often used to flavor vegetables, in curry dishes and on fish. You can use coconut oil in place of vegetable oil or butter to sauté vegetables or cook foods on the stove. Coconut oil can replace vegetable oil or butter in baked goods as well. It is a good substitute for butter in dairy-free diets.

COCONUT OIL IS ALSO GOOD FOR YOUR SKIN AND HAIR: apply to your skin as lotion rub on lips as a natural lip balm help get rid of cradle cap on babies: massage into head, leave on for a few minutes and gently rub with a warm washcloth rub a dab on your hands and then run your hands through your hair to get rid of frizz use as a hair conditioner: rub into dry hair, put on a shower cap and leave on for several hours HOW TO CHOOSE A GOOD COCONUT OIL What do all the labels mean, and how do you know which coconut oil to choose? Coconut oil should be refined or “pure” if it will be used for consumption.

Virgin coconut oil is the least processed

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family » health

& safety

Kids’ poisoning from e-cigs on the rise

BY NASEEM S. MILLER ORLANDO SENTINEL

The growing popularity of e-cigarettes has put more kids at risk of nicotine poisoning, leading to hospitalizations, coma, and in one case, death, according to a national study.

The study, published in “Pediatrics,” analyzed calls to poison centers and found that the number of e-cigarette calls increased 15-fold by the end of the 40-month study. The monthly number of calls involving e-cigarettes increased from 14 to 223 between 2012 and 2015.

“That, by any definition, is an epidemic,” said Dr. Gary Smith, the lead author of the study and director of the Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio.

In Florida, the number of calls for e-cigarette exposure increased from eight in 2011 to 105 in 2015.

It’s been known for decades that nicotine is a toxic substance, particularly for kids, but the rapid growth of the e-cigarette industry has made it more accessible to small children at home.

There are now more than 400 brands and 7,700 flavors of liquid nicotine since e-cigarettes entered the U.S. market in 2007. Many of the e-cigarettes and refill containers are not child proof.

And while cigarettes are more difficult to digest, liquid nicotine is easily absorbed, and in high concentrations, it can quickly poison small children.

Smith’s study showed that kids under 6 who were exposed to e-cigarettes and liquid nicotine were five times as likely to end up in the hospital compared with kids who were exposed to cigarettes. They were also nearly three times as likely to have severe outcomes.

The study comes at the heels of two new initiatives to curb this trend.

The Child Nicotine Poisoning Prevention

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Act will take effect this summer and will require child-resistant packaging on liquid nicotine containers.

Also, the Food and Drug Administration released long-awaited rules last month requiring e-cigarette companies to undergo federal review to stay on the market and to add health warnings to their products. The new regulations, which take effect in August, also ban the sale of e-cigarettes to anyone younger than 18.

The announcement was welcomed by many health and consumer advocacy groups, but was criticized by the vapor industry.

“Today’s action by the FDA will do nothing to improve our nation’s public health objectives,” said Tony Abboud, Vapor Technology Association’s national legislative director, in a statement. “To the contrary, today’s action will yank responsibly manufactured vapor products from the hands of adult smokers and replace them with the tobacco cigarettes they had been trying to give up.”

This trend bears a resemblance to the spike in kids’ poisoning from laundry detergent packs. A 7-month-old Osceola boy died in 2013 after eating one of the packs, and Smith’s group has published several studies on the trend.

“Liquid nicotine is another example of a highly toxic product that was put into the marketplace without consideration for safety of children,” Smith said. “It’s as if we’re treating our children as canaries in the coal mine.

We wait until there’s a dramatic event and then do something.”

If your child swallows liquid nicotine, don’t induce vomiting. Instead, either call poison control at 800-222-1222 or 9-1-1.

“Keep e-cigarettes away from kids, and when you’re done using them, put them away,” Smith said.

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family

» travel

Taking the Kids to Cuba Americans share experience on the first U.S. cruise ship trip to Cuba in more than 50 years

BY EILEEN OGINTZ TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY

HAVANA, Cuba — Talk about bragging rights!

Tyson Russell, 10, his younger sister Lucy, 8, and a gaggle of cousins were the first American kids to step off an American ship in Cuba in more than 50 years.

“Cool,” Tyson said.

“No one I know has been here,” added his cousin Jacob Russell, 12. “It’s exciting!”

It’s all the more exciting because hundreds of Cubans lined the shore cheering and waving as the 700-passenger Adonia sailed in to Havana harbor. The passengers waved back and then were greeted on shore with high-fives and hugs. “I didn’t expect that,” Noah Russell, 15, said. “It made me feel really good.”

That was true for all of the passengers aboard Adonia, the first ship in a new Carnival brand called Fathom, which is devoted to immersive and impactful travel. There were 16 Cuban-born Americans on board, some returning for the first time, some who work for Carnival Corporation, all hoping to see homes they left as young children. Cuba just last week agreed to permit Cuban-born Americans to travel here by boat. “This is the best thing we can do to break down barriers, to bring

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people together,” said Carnival Corporation president and CEO Arnold Donald, who was onboard for the historic arrival.

For Tara Russell, Tyson and Lucy’s mom, the fact that her children, mom and extended family, including her niece and nephews, can share this experience is the best Mother’s Day gift of her life. “I’m living my dream this week,” she said.

Russell is the president of Fathom, who’s spearheading a new cruise concept focusing on voluntourism in the Dominican Republic and also immersive experiences to Cuba. The hope is to encourage younger, non-cruisers — especially families — on board for a different kind of vacation experience.

I’ve learned firsthand that encouraging kids to be global citizens, to be comfortable outside their own comfort zones, helps them navigate unfamiliar and difficult turf in their lives as they grow up.

That Russell’s kids and husband were able to join her on the inaugural Dominican and Cuban cruises, and to see how fully engaged they have been in the programming she has worked so hard to develop, not only underscores what she is trying to accomplish with Fathom, but personally “is such a gift,” she said.

“Crazy good!”

Certainly the Cuba programming is a work in progress. As required by the United States, Americans traveling to Cuba must participate in eight hours of approved “people-to-people” experiences daily (that doesn’t leave much time for Cuba’s beautiful beaches). Some P-to-P programs are excellent; others need work.

The advantage of traveling on Fathom, passengers agree, is that all of the logistics are arranged for you, including the required P-to-P experiences, in a country still struggling with tourism infrastructure.

There are few hotels, poor roads, difficulties renting a car, little Wi-Fi. “I’m really not a cruise person,” said Sandeep Rao, a physician from Texas in his 30s traveling with his wife, Swathi. “But Cuba seemed daunting. I knew on a trip like this, everything would be taken care of,” he added, clutching a “Lonely Planet Cuba” guide.

One day in Havana, for example, the Raos were in my group as we met with the manager of a private — as opposed to government-owned — restaurant. He was very proud that Guy Fieri will feature his restaurant, El Figaro, in an upcoming segment of his TV show “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” on the Food Network. “That

JUNE 2016

5/18/16 11:34 AM

» travel

family Americans are coming is good for everyone,” Johnny Blanco said, as he served up delicious lobster tail and beans and rice, all for under $15, in the tiny restaurant.

Gilberto Valladares Reina, who everyone calls “Papito,” has his own private hair salon (and museum, devoted to the history of barber shops and hairdressing) up a steep flight of steps a few doors away from El Figaro on what is known as “Barber’s Alley.” Reina was one of the first in Cuba to get a license for a private business in his home some 16 years ago and has been instrumental in forming ArteCorte, a community organization that has helped other businesses start along the street. They have also organized projects for schoolchildren, a free hairdressing and bartender school for young adults, a senior center that feeds 150 for 10 cents a day and a free playground themed to hairdressing (think a giant blow dryer climbing scape).

Today, Papito’s shop is bustling. He’s thrilled to see Americans coming and for the opportunities this P-to-P program offers. “The most important tourism product we have is our people,” he said through an interpreter. That Cuban and American children can meet is especially

important, he said.

It is a significant feat that Fathom can move 700 people through tours that fulfill the P-to-P requirements, visiting different community projects and historic sites, such as the historic Cathedral of San Cristobal of Havana (a kids’ favorite because they can climb to the top of the bell tower), small restaurants and museums.

The National Museum of Fine Arts was a spectacular representation of Cuban culture through art, but if we hadn’t had a knowledgeable guide, I wouldn’t have appreciated what we were privileged to see.

If you don’t want to participate, even onboard, you can do the paperwork to complete the P-to-P requirements on your own, assuming you can arrange the interaction. Fathom’s Rosamaria Caballero, a Cuban-American and the Fathom executive who helped develop the P-to-P programs, said that soon she hopes there will be workshops with dancers, musicians, perhaps a cooking class or one that focuses on Havana’s Jewish history, as well as some programs better-designed for families.

It isn’t difficult, particularly if you speak Spanish, to interact with Cubans.

They couldn’t be friendlier. You should feel safe bringing the kids here.

The Adonia is not a big ship (the Havana dock can’t accommodate anything bigger yet). It only has a very small pool, no waterslide or kids’ club, no casino and Internet is spotty. That didn’t seem to faze anyone on board, especially not the kids.

“I’m most excited that we’re going to be the first Americans to sail in here in so many years,” said Jack McHargue, 13. “My friends think it’s cool that I’m here.”

“We’re having too much fun,” said Tyson Russell.

“Children are the future,” Papito said.

“We want to see enterprise between the United States and Cuba.

“We are very different cultures,” he continued; as today’s children get to know each other and focus on their similarities rather than their differences, “they can tighten the bonds between us.”

Read more about Eileen’s Cuba adventure in her travel diaries at www.takingthekids.com and also follow “taking the kids” on www.twitter.com, where Eileen Ogintz welcomes your questions and comments.

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Most Miami Dolphin is an MVP— Valuable Parent

PHOTO/BETH BLACK

BY JOANIE COX-HENRY Michael Thomas may be a safety for the Miami Dolphins, but on a Saturday morning, he’s picking up his daughter’s toys around the house just like any other dad.

The professional football player said having his daughter, Genesis, who will be 2 in July, has given him a whole new perspective on life.

Originally from East Texas, Thomas said football has definitely helped him be a better father. “Playing football really teaches you responsibility and accountability,” Thomas said. “When I’m out on that football field, my teammates are depending on me. At home, it’s me and my wife working as a team.”

When his wife is at the gym, Thomas said he enjoys watching educational videos with his daughter and reading her

nursery rhymes. “Her favorite one right now is ‘Itsy Bitsy Spider,’” Thomas said.

“She also loves Minnie Mouse and has educational apps on her iPad.” His daughter is quite tech-savvy, even claiming her own PlayStation 4 controller when she and her dad fire up the gaming console for a little Madden football.

“I love playing video games with her,” Thomas said.

Thomas just completed his fourth season in the NFL, with three of those years spent with the Miami Dolphins. He’s now residing with his family in Davie and spending as much time with his little girl as possible.

“My advice to other parents out there is to kiss and hug your child as much as you can because it’s amazing how fast it goes,” Thomas said. “I know a lot of people tell you it goes by quick, but it’s really true.

And tell them you love them every day.”

This Father’s Day, Thomas is looking back on his own memories of growing up with his dad. “As my daughter grows, I’m appreciating more and more how much my parents did for me,” said Thomas, who attended Stanford University. “After becoming a father myself, I have such a different appreciation for parents now.”

Becoming a father has also taught Thomas the value of planning ahead. “My wife and I really learned the importance of time management now,” Thomas said.

In his free time, Thomas enjoys giving back to children’s charities. “I work with several charities, including The Van Duzer Foundation, St. Lucie County, which gives back to families facing major hardships,” Thomas said. “I think giving kids dreams is the most wonderful thing we can give them.”

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Dear Stepdad: You’re important, too

Fall seven times, stand up eight.

Japanese Proverb

BY GAYLA GRACE

My husband, Randy, will be the first to tell you he has done a lot of things wrong as a stepfather. He has been a stepparent to my two daughters for 20 years. His stepdaughters love him dearly.

But it hasn't always been that way.

My youngest daughter, Jodi, was almost 3 when we married, and Jamie was 5. Randy had a difficult time with Jamie from the beginning. She didn't want another dad in her life, and she made that clear to him.

He overheard a conversation between the two girls one night in the bathtub during our first year of marriage. “I hate him, too. I can't believe Mom married him,” Jamie told Jodi. There was little love, or even like, between Randy and the girls in the beginning.

During our second year of marriage, Randy left the house one evening and called from a nearby hotel. “I’m not coming home tonight. I’m not sure I’m coming home again. I can’t cope with the ongoing conflict between me and you and the kids.”

It was a tough season. Randy brought two children to the marriage also, and attempting to blend our four kids, ages 3-10, while learning how to stepparent and parent together proved harder than we anticipated. But neither of us wanted to endure another divorce. Randy and I began counseling that year to work through the bumps.

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During her teen years, Jamie challenged us on every turn. If Randy punished her in the slightest, she threatened to call Child Protective Services. She ran away more times than I can remember (but thankfully never went far).

After one particularly difficult day with defiant behavior, Randy took Jamie’s cell phone and threw it to the ground. When it busted into several pieces, Jamie began yelling at us both. The night didn’t end well. And I wasn’t sure the sun would come up the next day.

But it did. And Randy didn’t give up on his stepparenting journey with Jamie.

When she came to driving age, Randy wanted to teach her to drive. She tested every ounce of his patience. They would come in from a driving session hardly talking to one another, with Jamie’s anger brewing over. But the next day, they were at it again.

During her high school years, Jamie participated in competitive cheerleading. Randy would jokingly say, “Do you call cheerleading a sport?” The ongoing drama with other cheerleaders, out-of-town competitions and continuous suction cup to his wallet threw Randy into stress overdrive. His grumpiness overshadowed his joy at times. But he didn’t quit supporting Jamie and the things that made her tick.

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As Jamie left for college, I’ll never forget her words to him. With a wrap-around hug and a smile on her face she said, “Thank you for being such a great dad to me. I love you!”

Jamie travelled to Mozambique, Africa, for an eight-month missionary journey after graduating from college. She left in early summer, and we knew it would be difficult to communicate with her while she was gone. As I suspected, however, she made sure to call on Father’s Day, despite the seven-hour time difference between us.

When Randy answered the phone, I saw tears in his eyes as he listened to Jamie recount life-changing experiences, knowing he had contributed to her stability and maturity that enabled her now to make a difference with others. She closed with the words every stepfather loves to hear: “Happy Father’s Day, Dad. I love you. I miss you.”

Do you have to be a perfect stepdad to have a meaningful relationship with your stepchildren? No! Randy’s stepdaughters, now 23 and 25, love their imperfect stepdad.

How did that happen? Randy never quit. He got up when he fell down. He sought help when he needed answers. He cried. He prayed. He struggled. He fought.

He apologized. He forgave. He smiled with gritted teeth. But he never quit.

Is it a cycle? Yes. You take one step forward and two steps backward. You celebrate a season of growth and then start a season of despair. You gain the insider status one day and feel like an outcast the next.

Does that mean you failed? No. Stepparenting is tough. Mistakes are made.

Misunderstandings happen. And variables outside our control influence stepfamily relationships.

But there are new tomorrows, a fresh start to work through differences, and hope for harmony.

As a stepdad, you’ve been given an opportunity to influence a young child’s life like no one else can, in an imperfect way.

Are you up for the challenge? I hope so. Because my husband will tell you: your efforts count. And there are rewards to stepparenting, even when you’re not perfect. ... But often, they’re a long time coming.

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Gayla Grace is a freelance writer, wife, mom to three and stepmom to two. She supports and encourages stepparents through her website: stepparentingwithgrace.com.

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Avoid the Summer Reading Drought

BY CHRISSIE FERGUSON Just because school’s out for the summer doesn’t mean that children should push the pause button on all things school-related. In fact, research proves that taking a hiatus from reading during the summer months can greatly decrease decoding and fluency skills.

Parents can help children avoid this trap by selecting a summer reading list that will instill a love of reading. Even if a child chooses to read books that are a few levels above or below his or her reading level, parents should encourage reading for enjoyment, said Erica Woolway, co-author of “Reading Reconsidered: A Practical Guide to Rigorous Literacy” (also written by Colleen Driggs and Doug Lemov).

Broaden a child’s exposure to different genres and help him or her get excited

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about a particular topic by pairing nonfiction with fiction.

“If there is a novel they are really loving, a parent should pick up a nonfiction article or book that pairs well with it,” said Driggs, who is also director of professional development for the Teach Like a Champion Team at Uncommon Schools, a nonprofit school management program.

Woolway, who is also chief academic officer of the Teach like a Champion Team, said parents could also build a summer reading list by selecting books that relate to the places they will visit during the summer. These selections “will help enhance those experiences” while encouraging children to build interest in their reading.

Miami-Dade Public Library’s operations

administrator, Jennifer Shipley, agrees that parents need to keep reading fun for children of all ages, especially during the summer months.

“Touch-and-feel books and books that have rhymes are fun for babies and toddlers up to age 3,” Shipley said. “Keep a few board books at arm’s reach of your toddler and watch him or her explore.”

When choosing books for children in kindergarten through sixth grade, a parent should ask the child what they like. “Children will often tell you what they are curious about,” Shipley said. “Providing them with books they are interested in will help foster a love of reading.”

Parents and caregivers can instill a love of reading in children by simply reading to them from a young age. It is important

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to point to the words being read to build fluency, Shipley said.

Reading aloud is beneficial for older children as well. Not only is it a great way to model fluency, but there are also benefits of exposing children to texts above their reading level. It can provide great vocabulary advantages that help with comprehension in a way that children wouldn’t get independently, Woolway said.

Reluctant readers may be more inclined to pick up a book if a parent or caregiver reads with them. By alternating the reading of paragraphs and giving a child a more manageable amount to read at one time, he might be less intimidated to sit down to read a chapter or two.

Reading aloud also gives parents and children the opportunity to spend quality time together, Woolway said.

Start by building reading time into a child’s routine. “When [children] are younger, start to build those habits,” Driggs said. A great time to read is “before naps and bedtime.”

But be flexible and don’t force reading, Woolway warned.

It’s important to make the reading experience a positive one. “Come to the library and make selecting a book a fun activity,” Shipley said. Kids will get excited to go home and read the books they picked out.

Try tying reading into other activities, too. After visiting the zoo or passing a construction site, check out a book to learn more about zoo animals or construction equipment.

Or read a book first and then come up with an activity that you can do with your child, Shipley said. For example, if you read, “I Ain’t Gonna Paint No More,” create your own masterpiece after reading the book.

Last, but not least, encourage good summer reading habits by being a good reader yourself.

“Children who see their parents or caregivers read are more likely to do the same,” Shipley said. “Make it a family affair and visit your local library to pick up some great books.”

“Pick one book you would read together and one they would read by themselves,” Woolway said. “Then model that by picking a book for yourself.”

HOW TO BUILD YOUR CHILD’S SUMMER READING LIST

* Encourage children to read for enjoyment. * Pair fiction with nonfiction. * Select books that may enhance your family’s summer vacation. * Build confidence, reading comprehension and fluency by reading aloud with your child. * For younger readers, visit abcmouse.com or Miami Dade’s public library site (www.mdpls.org) and click on the children’s link to utilize a new online resource called Miss Humblebee’s Academy. Broward County Library (broward.org/library) has a Youth page with links for help with the First Five Years, including the free learn-to-read website Starfall.com.

Chrissie Ferguson is a freelance writer and the mother of three young boys. She is also a middle school Language Arts teacher at Rosarian Academy in West Palm Beach. Read her mom blog at soundoflittlefeet.blogspot.com

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Keeping kids SAFE this SUMMER

By Erica Chao mamasmission.com

As summer approaches, you know your kids are going to want to be out in the sun having fun.

There are so many great things to do, such as go to the beach, play at the park or even just enjoy some time in the backyard.

Kids can play water sports, toss water balloons, ride bikes or scooters, and much more. There are no limits to the fun they can have in the summer.

That said, you want to ensure they aren’t hurt during all this fun.

HERE ARE SOME IMPORTANT THINGS TO REMEMBER ABOUT KEEPING YOUR KIDS SAFE THIS SUMMER: Pool safety: If you have a pool or will be visiting a place with a pool, it’s extremely important that you keep the kids safe.

Young people love swimming

pools, and they can have so much fun in them, but they are also incredibly dangerous. Be sure your child is never alone near water and that there are safety precautions in place, such as alarms, fencing or other features around the pool and on doors leading to the pool.

Always wear helmets: If your child rides a bike, skateboard, scooter or something similar, be sure they have a properly fitted helmet and that they always wear it.

It doesn’t take much of a bump on the head to cause a head injury, and sometimes these can be very serious.

Prevention goes a long way. It’s easy and inexpensive to wear a helmet. Be sure to always enforce safety first with your children.

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can’t completely rid the risk of all bites or stings when in the great outdoors, there are some precautions you can take with your children.

Insect repellant can reduce the chances of mosquito bites.

You should also talk to your children about not picking up or playing with dangerous spiders or insects. Be vigilant about checking for ticks. They are small and can hide under clothing and in hair, so check your family, especially your children, nightly after playing outdoors.

Keep cool: Heat-related illness is another common risk in the summer months.

Keep your children well-hydrated and monitor the time they spend outdoors on really hot days. Always keep water on hand when going outside, and be sure your kids know the signs of heat exhaustion, which can lead to heat stroke if not caught in time.

Prevent sunburn: Sunburn hurts! It also increases the risk of cancer and can really ruin a good time. Protect your kids from sunburn with a quality sunscreen and encourage them to wear hats and other clothing to protect their body and face. Remember that sunscreen has to be reapplied after swimming or getting wet, and after you’ve been out for a while. It’s also important to remember that sunburns can happen on cloudy days, too. Since chemical sunscreens should not be applied to young babies, keep babies under 6 months in the shade and protected with UV-rated clothing.

With these safety ideas in mind, you and your kids can enjoy the summer worry-free. Have fun!

Erica is a multitasking mama to 3 living in Miami. She blogs about parenting, lifestyle, cooking and travel, covering everything from diapers to dorm rooms. Follow her at MamasMission.com

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BY JOANIE COX-HENRY Jazz Jennings first started questioning her gender about age 2. The South Florida child would ask her mom when a fairy was going to arrive with a magic wand and change her body parts from boy to girl, according to a “Daily Mail” interview.

Jazz, who was born in 2000, began seeing a counselor and became one of the youngest publicly documented people to be identified as gender dysphoric in 2004.

Although she was born male, Jazz said she has always identified as female.

In 2014, she co-wrote and released “I Am Jazz,” a children’s book about her transition. Jazz wrote the book with the goal of helping other children and families accept people who are different and to bring understanding to gender dysphoria.

The star of TLC’s popular TV series, also called “I Am Jazz,” wants the world to understand that trans people are just like everyone else.

“Many people think that being transgender is a choice. They need to educate themselves and understand that we were

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born this way,” Jazz said. “I’m a girl and have always known it. I just happened to have been born with a boy’s body, but I’ve never been a boy.

“The world needs to respect trans people and love them for who they are.

Just because our brains and bodies were incongruent at birth doesn’t make us any less of a man or a woman. I think being transgender makes us unique and special.

Different is the new normal.”

Jazz’s mother, Jeanette Jennings, recognized early in her daughter’s life that she wasn’t comfortable wearing boy’s clothing.

“Often trans kids will express their gender even before they are 2, or as early as age 3 or 4,” Jennings said. “They will act stereotypical of the gender that doesn’t match the one they were assigned at birth, and as soon as they find words, they will verbalize it.

Jazz has always insisted that she was a girl, and she never acted like a stereotypical boy.

“Often the signs are there early on.

Listen to your kids, and follow their lead.

No matter what their age, they know who they are.”

Hillary Whittington, a San Diego-based mother of two, noticed similar signs in her son Ryland. “Jazz was a huge player in

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helping me figure out Ryland was transgender,” said Whittington, whose 8-yearold transitioned from girl to boy. “Jazz’s mom and I have since become friends.

We’re so grateful for this amazing family.”

Whittington chronicled Ryland’s transition in the book, “Raising Ryland: Our Story of Parenting a Transgender Child with No Strings Attached,” which was released in February.

“Looking back on it now, there were so many ‘A-ha’ moments where Ryland was trying to tell us what was going on,” Whittington said. “He would say ‘I’m a boy who likes girl things’ to try to make us happy, because in the beginning, he could tell he wasn’t getting a good reaction when he said he was a boy.”

Eventually, Ryland started asking his parents, “Why did God make me this way?”

At first, Whittington and her husband struggled with Ryland’s behavior. “We have this image in our heads of what our child will be like,” Whittington said. “But we are so proud of Ryland and wouldn’t change a thing about him.”

Whittington urges other parents with transgender children to find a local support group. “The best community right now is other families going through this, but that can often be hard to find,” Whittington said.

“Loving your child and letting them know you’ll love them no matter what is huge. Many families contact me from around the world with questions, and I’m happy to share our story to help them.

Finding a gender therapist is also key.”

Jennings also has advice for parents of transgender children.

“It’s simple: Love your child for who they are,” she said. “Celebrate the child you have and not the child you thought you’d have.

“It’s a child’s birthright to be loved and happy. As a parent, you need to do your best to ensure that. I think it’s also important to love, accept, support and celebrate trans youth. They are very special. Get to know them without judging first, because you’ll love them.”

As Jazz continues to blossom as a 15-year-old, she reveals she’s much like any other girl her age, coping with girl drama, mood swings, insecurities, bad hair days and other typical teenage obstacles. Lately, she’s also into binge-watching TV shows on her laptop, Japanese Anime and playing soccer, tennis and drawing.

“I’m really excited about my memoir, which is coming out June 7,” she said of “Being Jazz: My Life As A (Transgender) Teen.”

“I’ve always wanted to share my life in a more intimate manner. In the book,

I share a lot of personal thoughts, feelings and stories that can be relatable to all youth, not just trans kids. I also want people to know I’m just like all other teens.

When all is said and done, I remember that I have my whole life in front of me, and that many things that are happening now won’t mean much in 20 years.”

Jazz is also excited about the second season of her TV show, which is set to air on TLC June 8. The program also recently won for Outstanding Reality Program at the 2016 GLAAD Media Awards.

“Being on TV is quite a wild ride,” Jazz said. “I’m so humbled by the amount of positive feedback I’ve received from people all over the world. I had no idea we’d touch so many people who aren’t trans.”

Her mother is also looking forward to the new season. “Season two is different from season one,” she said. “It’s more intense. Jazz comes face to face with people who don’t accept the fact that she’s trans. There’s lots of controversy, drama

and many fun moments as well. The show has affected all of us. When recognized by the public, we realize the impact we’ve had.”

Knowing the positive affect she’s having on other transgender children and families is also what makes Jazz enthusiastic about her TV show.

“I’m so glad that I’ve been able to inspire other people. I always say, ‘It’s not about me, it’s about my message,’ ” Jazz said. “It warms my heart when trans youth tell me that I’ve changed or even saved their lives. It shows that I’m doing the right thing by sharing my message.”

All proceeds from the “I Am Jazz” children’s book go to the Transkids Purple Rainbow Foundation, which was started by the Jennings family as a resource to help transgender youth and their families. Visit transkidspurplerainbow.org.

Acceptance begins at home

By Janet Eltaktouk outersparkle.com

As a parent, we provide our children with unconditional love and acceptance. Parents are the most influential people in a child’s life, and acceptance is a core value we cannot leave untaught; it is a value that shapes who our children are.

We are all uniquely made, not one of us alike, and we live in a very diverse world. Educating our children on this diversity and on accepting themselves and others regardless of their differences may be difficult, but only if you let it be.

Our society can be a challenge to those not open to accepting changes or differences. But we, the parents, set the example at home. Our communities are filled with socioeconomic differences, and how we speak and reflect on our surroundings will determine our children’s acceptance, respect and tolerance of the world around them.

Encourage an open conversation with your children about differences among people, whether racial, religious, gender or ability, and teach them we are all capable of achieving many of the same things in life.

That attitude of acceptance, respect and tolerance has to be the behavior parents model at home. Children watch closely and often imitate what the parent does; if we don’t do our job as the parent, society will teach them otherwise.

Kindness and compassion are traits that go hand in hand with acceptance and tolerance. A person’s ability to accept differences will build their social competence. If we adults showed more respect and concern for others and accepted each other’s differences, our world would be a different place.

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of Winners of 2016 PRESENTED BY

Congratulations to the winners of the 2016 My Kid’s Rockin Teacher of the Year contest, presented by Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital.

Our readers voted to choose the most Rockin Teacher in each county from this year’s monthly winners. Thank you for helping us recognize South Florida’s most outstanding teachers!

BROWARD COUNTY

PALM BEACH COUNTY

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY

Ms. Collman is creative, imaginative, playful, extremely kind and simply awesome. Ms. Collman creatively incorporates The Peanuts in her class. She sections the kiddos in table groups called Charlie Brown, Linus, Woodstock and Snoopy, and they compete for Peanuts Points to encourage positive reinforcement. Her weekly newsletter, The Peanuts Post, gives parents information they need. … She has been known to have an alter ego, DJ Broccoli, who raps to encourage kids to eat their vegetables. Ms. Collman is so loved that her previous students stop by every morning for hugs ... and just to see her smile.

My daughter lost 90 percent of her vision and began to struggle with her surroundings. This didn’t stop my daughter’s teacher from making sure that Kayla had the highest quality of learning possible within her classroom. Ms. Levitt showed great empathy for my daughter, while maintaining a strong educational environment. Ms. Levitt never let my daughter miss out on anything. To her, Kayla isn’t different, and I can’t thank her enough for empowering my daughter.

My child, Aniyah, has been exposed to various real-life events to assist with her learning to ensure she grasps subjects. I’ve seen a light and spark of enjoyment for education since being under Mrs. Jones’ educational guidance. In an era when education is all about testing and school grades, it feels good to know that there is a teacher who focuses on hands-on teaching and incorporating activities that young children can relate to and enjoy. Aniyah comes home talking of all the activities that she’s learned about.

Nominated by Ellie Morgan

Mrs. Katie Collman First Grade Bethany Christian School

Nominated by Nicole Neil

Sharyn Levitt Second Grade Loxahatchee Elementary School

Akebia Jones First grade Rainbow Park Elementary School

Nominated by Aniyah Smith

The grand prize for each winning teacher is two Dolphin Encounters from Miami Seaquarium (a $300 value). The winning nominators from each county will receive a family S 4-pack of tickets to Miami Seaquarium (a $180 value).

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A to Z

Summer in South Florida

BY JOANIE COX-HENRY

S

outh Florida schools start their break this month, which means many families now have a lot more time to explore together. The region offers plenty to get families out of the house and into summer fun:

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A

is for Alligators, which can be found throughout South Florida. A great way to get up close to this native creature safely is with an airboat ride from one of the many tour operators throughout the region. Some, such as the Everglades Holiday Park (home of the Gator Boys Alligator Rescue) and Tigertail Airboat Tours also have native wildlife and alligator shows.

B

is for the

beach. Head east to find sun, surf and sand. Numerous fishing piers up and down the coast give beachgoers great access to saltwater fishing and gorgeous views of the sunrise. Other famous B’s: BB&T Center in Sunrise, home to the Florida Panthers ice hockey team and great summer shows, such as Monster Jam or Demi Lovato and Nick Jonas; Biscayne Bay in Miami; Butterfly World in Coconut Creek; and Bedner’s Farm in Boynton Beach.

C

is for children’s museums, such as Miami Children’s Museum, Boca Raton Children’s Museum and the Museum of Discovery & Science

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in Fort Lauderdale. These museums offer child-friendly exhibits, hands-on play and special classes for kids. Other famous C’s: The Carousel at Pompano Citi Centre in Pompano Beach, which includes five Florida-inspired creatures, and the allFlorida-themed Carousel at Downtown in the Gardens, which features a great blue heron, Florida panther, roseate spoonbill and other state-specific rides.

F

is for Food Trucks. Visit foodtruckinvasion.com for locations throughout South Florida. F is also for the 4-H All About Animals and Veterinary Science Camp in Broward County, a program that exposes aspiring veterinarians to large-animal, small-animal and wildlife medicine through hands-on labs and field

I

is for Island. At Peanut Island Park in Palm Beach County, visitors can fish, snorkel, swim or camp overnight at the campground. Or head to the end of I-95 in Miami for the beauty of Hobie Island Beach Park, Key Biscayne, Key Largo and the rest of the Florida Keys.

J

D

is for dog parks, where you can take the family pet out for his own special play date. There are dozens of free dog parks throughout South Florida for four-legged fun. D is also for Daggerwing Nature Center in Boca Raton, where you can view live animals and interactive state-ofthe-art exhibits or take a walk on the nature trails.

E

is for Everglades National Park.

Check out the ranger-led programs, from nature walks to Everglades Exploration talks. Visitors can bike the 14-mile trail at Shark Valley or take a 2-hour narrated tram tour to see alligators, wading birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Younger visitors can complete a free, interactive program to earn a Junior Ranger badge.

K

is for Kids Eat Free. Visit SouthFloridaParenting.com for a list of South Florida’s best deals.

Other cool K’s: The free Kite Day Festival at Haulover Beach in Miami and the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach.

trips. Other famous F’s: Fun Fridays at ArtsPark in Hollywood and Frank Theatres Cinebowl & Grille in Delray Beach.

G

is for video games at places such as GameTime in Miami and Game Room Sawgrass in Sunrise.

These family entertainment centers have arcade games, simulator rides, ticket redemption and more. Other famous G’s: Flamingo Gardens in Davie and Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach.

H

is for the Humane Society of Broward County, where kids can participate in programs and summer camps to interact with animals and learn how to care for their four-legged friends. Other famous H’s: History of Miami museum, Miami Heat basketball games at AmericanAirlines Arena and Hollywood’s Broadwalk.

L

is for library events. From story times to movie nights, there is always something fun happening at your local library. Other famous L’s: Lion Country Safari in Loxahatchee, with its drive-through safari and kid-friendly water play area, and Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach.

M

is for Miami Marlins baseball.

Enjoy America’s favorite pastime at Marlins Park, especially on kid-friendly themed nights. Other famous M’s: Manatee watching at the new FPL JUNE 2016 |

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is for Jupiter, home to the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse, spring training baseball games at Roger Dean Stadium and the surfing and family fun on Juno Beach.

Other famous J’s: Jungle Island in Miami Beach and Jaxson’s Ice Cream Parlour & Restaurant in Hollywood.

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EcoDiscovery Center in West Palm Beach, Mizner Park Amphitheater and its full lineup of outdoor concerts, the new Margaritaville Beach Resort in Hollywood, and Monster Mini Golf in Miramar and Coral Springs.

N

is for Nature Detectives. Children 8-11 can explore and learn about nature at Fern Forest Nature Center in Coconut Creek. Other famous N’s: Nature Days every second Saturday at the Environmental Center at Miami Dade Co ColKen lege in Kendall, the Anne Kolb Nat Nature Cen Center in Dan Dania Bea Beach and Gumb Gumbo Limbo Nature Ce Center

in Boca Raton.

O

is for Old School Square in Delray Beach. There is always something to do – from events and festivals to visiting the Cornell Art Museum, seeing a show at the Crest Theatre Galleries or The Fieldhouse Theater, or taking a class at the Creative Arts School. Other famous O’s: O Cinema in Miami Beach and Old Davie School Historical Museum’s Summer Sundaes on Saturdays in June.

P

Q

is for the Jungle Queen, which cruises the New River and docks across from Fort Lauderdale’s beach. Pick from the option of a sightseeing or a dinner-and-show cruise. Q is also for Quiet Waters Park in Deerfield Beach, home to Ski Rixen cable waterskiing and wakeboarding and the annual Florida Renaissance Festival.

R

is for the he Robert is uit Here fruit stand in Homestead at the end e of I-95. Purchase wn Homestead-grown ical fruit vegetables, tropical fruit, jams and sauces, and their famous milkshakes. Other famous R’s: The Redland agricultural district in Miami, which includes Knaus Berry Farm and Schnebly Redland’s Winery, and the Gold Coast Railroad Museum in Miami.

is for parks.

South Florida has plenty of national, state and local parks to enjoy and explore the outdoors. Check out Sugar Sand Park in Boca Raton, a 132-acre park with a children’s science center, carousel, performing arts theater and

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nature trails; Tradewinds Park in Coconut Creek; and Tropical Park in Miami. Other famous P’s: Putting Around Mini Golf in Delray Beach.

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S

is for steam train rides on the Tradewinds & Atlantic Railroad at Tradewinds Park in Coconut Creek. This sit-on model train ride is great for all ages, and the rides are offered on the third complete weekend of each month. Other famous S’s: the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium in West Palm Beach and Miami Seaquarium.

leaves from the Funky Budda Brewery in Oakland Park and visits three breweries in Pompano and Boca, with pints at each and a behind-the-scenes tour.

tures caves, stone bridges and waterfalls.

Other famous V’s: Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in Miami and the mile-long shoreline of Virginia Key Beach Park in Miami.

U

W

is for Underwater Mermaid Show.

Live “Mermaid� and Aqua-dancer MeduSirena and her pod of “Aquaticats� swim past the portholes in the MeduSirena Swimshow on Fridays and Saturdays at the Wreck Bar on Fort Lauderdale Beach. U is also for the underwater camera at the Deerfield Beach pier; view it at dfb.city/ beachcams.

is for Water Parks. Escape the heat and take a dip at one of the region’s many water parks, including: Grapeland Water Park in Miami; C.B. Smith Park’s Paradise Cove, Central Broward Regional Park’s Tropical Splash, Quiet Waters’ Splash Adventure, and T.Y. Park’s Castaway Island & Swim Lagoon; and Calypso Bay Waterpark, Coconut Cove Waterpark, John Prince Park Splashpark, Westgate Splashpark and Rapids Water Park in Palm Beach County.

V

T

is for the Venetian Pool in Coral Gables.

Families with kids 3 and older can cool off in this historic landmark carved out of coral rock that also fea-

is for trails and tours, not just the kid-friendly nature and foodie trails and tours in South Florida, but also the date-night-friendly craft beer trails and tours in the region. The Brew Bus (brewbususa.com) offers craft beer tours such as the 4.5-hour Full Pour Tour, which

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X

Y

is for Young At Art Museum in Davie. Visit the exhibits, create your own artwork at various craft stations, and let the kids play for hours on the mock subway, the climbing maze and building stations. Young At Art also offers a variety of art workshops and camps for kids.

Z

is for Zoo Miami and the Palm Beach Zoo. The 340-acre zoo in Miami has numerous water play areas, a giraffe feeding station, and Safari Cycles that allow whole families to pedal around the zoo in a shaded space. The smaller Palm Beach Zoo also has water play, plus a Wildlife Carousel and Safari Train to entertain the kids.

South Florida Parenting Editor Jennifer Jhon contributed to this report.

EE T FR EN EV

is for Xtreme Action Park in Fort Lauderdale. Don’t let the summer’s hot or wet afternoons stop the fun. Play and ride on the indoor gokart track, bowling lanes, arcade and ropes course. Over-21 guests can watch the racing action from the bar, and Xtreme’s food service includes kid favorites and a Hershey’s Shake Shoppe.

SUNDAY, JUNE 12TH 1pm - 4pm Bring your bathing suit, towel and sunscreen: it’s going to be wet and wild! Join the fun at the Promenade’s annual summer water slide party. Four inflatable water slides, games and even meet Anna and Elsa for your very own photo and autograph. This family-friendly event is FREE and open to the public.

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Anaiah Asthma

When It Matters Most

TRUST

Children need the right doctor and the right hospital.

Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital has every medical specialty a parent could want and the expertise every child needs. That’s why when it mattered most, Anaiah’s mom trusted the Emergency Department at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital to diagnose and treat her during a severe asthma attack.

When it matters most for your child, trust the team of experts in pediatric emergency medicine at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital.

Visit JDCH.com/Anaiah to watch her story and to share yours.

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baby stuff

WIN ME!

COOL IN SHADES Baby’s skin isn’t the only thing that needs protection from the sun. Protect their eyes with ro•sham•bo baby shades. The durable, Italian-made sunglasses block 100 percent of UVA/B rays and are designed specifically for babies and children, so they can be bent, stretched, pulled and stepped on without breaking – guaranteed. The plastic ro•sham•bo baby shades come in baby ($20), junior ($25) and adult ($35) sizes and a range of colors. (While you’re on the website, check out the ’80s throwback baby gear, including a ‘Full House’ T-shirt.) roshambobaby.com

KICKING RASHES, NATURALLY Boudreaux’s All-Natural Butt Paste combines zinc oxide skin protection with soothing aloe vera to help treat and prevent diaper rash. Boudreaux’s All-Natural Butt Paste spreads easily, and it works, creating a good seal against moisture. It also uses safe ingredients: zinc oxide, aloe vera, beeswax, carnauba wax, castor oil, citric acid, hydrogenated castor oil and Peruvian Balsam oil. $8.79, Buttpaste.com

» we love

SWEET DREAMS Put away that pack-n-play. n-play. The vel Bassinet Diono Dreamliner Travel el bed that is a light, folding travel can be used at home or while traveling. Unlike otherr portable travel beds, the Dreamliner is lightweight and compact, with quick fold and unfold for easy portability. It includes carry bag with shoulder strap and a water resistant mattress with removable matchine tress cover that is machine iono.com washable. $69.99, us.diono.com

MOST LIKE MOM The Tommee Tippee Ultra Feeding Bottle is designed with the breastfeeding baby in mind. Its extra-wide, enersoft silicone, off-center nipple and generast and ous contour zone mimics mom’s breast helps baby gain a secure latch for lesss air intake and dribbling. The design also means parents don’t have to tip the bottle to get the milk to flow correctly near the end of a feeding. The hbottle is easy to disassemble for washing, and has slow, medium and fast flow nipples to grow with your child.. $ pp $10.99,, tommeetippee.us/ultra

SUN PROTECTION Moms know not to use chemical sunscreens on babies, but California Baby has your little one covered with its mineral-based Super Sensitive SPF 30+ Sunscreen. California Baby Baby’ss unfragranced, PABA free sunscreen comes in lotion and stick form to make it easier to protect yourr m young one’s face and body from UV rays that can damage their ula skin. The Super Sensitive formula is also non-staining and waterresistant. $14.99-$19.99, californiababy.com

KEEP THEM COVERED The UV Skinz Sun and Swim Su Suit and Reversible Sun H at are p Hat perfect solutions to South Flo Florida fun in the sun.

The one-pi one-piece suit ($38.95) provides all all-over sun protection with UPF 50+ protection, and it is easy to put o on and take off, with a design like a zip-up sleeper. The lightweight fab fabric dries quickly and won’t chil chill baby. The matching Reversible Sun Hat ($16.95) has an under-chin str strap and a wide brim of 50+ protective fabric. uvskinz.com

HE HEALTHY SNACKING Happy Family, the company behind Happybaby Puffs an and Yogis, has added a line for moms to be, the Happy M Mama Prenatal collection. The line includes Nourishin ing Fruit + Veggie Blends smoothie pouches, flavor-free di dissolvable Probiotic Supplements, Prenatal Gummies vi vitamins and Soft-Baked Oat Bars with DHA, choline and ccalcium. a $1.79-$14.99, exclusively at Target

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baby » nutrition

First Food Alternatives to Rice Cereal

BY ALYSSA CHIRCO For many years, rice cereal has been recommended as a standard first food for babies. It is high in iron, unlikely to cause allergies and can be easily mixed with breast milk or formula. So when our pediatrician suggested that our infant daughter skip rice cereal entirely, I was surprised.

Her logic made sense, though. She said there are many more nutrient-dense options available to babies starting solids, and rice cereal offers little more than “empty calories.” And with growing concern over the high levels of arsenic found in rice, there’s yet another reason for ive today’s parents to consider an alternative first food for baby.

If you are ready to incorporate solid o foods into your baby’s diet but want to erestart with something other than rice cereent al, the following options are all excellent choices.

BANANA Bananas are the ultimate grab-and-go o baby food, no container (or cooking!)

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required. Even better, most e babies love their sweet taste t’s and creamy texture. Plus, it’s easy to mash a ripe banana ha with a fork, then puree with a. bit of breast milk or formula.

Soft chunks of ripe banana od also make a good finger food ed for babies who prefer to feed themselves.

SWEET POTATO Sweet potatoes aren’t only for Thanksgiving. They also make a wonderful first food for baby (hold the marshmallows, of course). The bright ora orange veggie is packed with nutrients lik like fiber, iron and Vitamin A. To pre prepare, just bake or b boil until soft, the then puree the inner fles flesh to the desired con consistency.

AVOCADO Avocados are loaded w with omega-3 fatty acids that are known for boosting brain

d d their development. And m uttery mild flavor and buttery ttexture makes them m aan ideal first food.

F For feeding baby, llook for one that iss ffirm to the touch b but gives slightly, ssince under-ripe aavocado will be diffiifficcult to mash or puree. uree.

UNSWEETENED APPLESAUCE Applesauce is another good choice for baby’s first food – as long as you choose one with no sugar or extra ingredients.

Better still, make your own by peeling a few organic apples, cutting them into chunks and boiling them in a small amount of w water until soft en enough to m mash or pu puree. Skip th the cinna namon and oth other spices; the na natural

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baby » nutrition sweetness of the fruit is all the flavor baby needs. You could also try making pear sauce too.

FINELY CHOPPED OR PUREED MEAT You probably don’t think of meat as an ideal first food, but a 2006 study published in the Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition found that it actually may be. Exclusively breastfed infants in particular can benefit from the early introduction of meat (about 6 months or later), since they begin to absorb less of the iron in breast milk once they start eating solids and need to obtain it from other sources. Meat is an excellent source of easily absorbed iiron and zinc.

It can be ground and pureed with water for young babies, or younger shred shredded into small piece pieces and served as a fing finger food for older in infants.

Organic t turkey, chicken a beef can and aall be good first cchoices. ch h

WHOLE GRAIN CEREAL If you still want to start with cereal, rice isn’t your only option. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends avoiding wheat and mixed grain cereals to start, because they may cause an allergic reaction in young babies. But you can try a single-grain cereal such as oatmeal or barley. Mix the cereal with enough breast milk or formula to make it soupy in the beginning; gradually add less over time.

Because of conflicting advice and guidelines from family, friends and even medical professionals, it can be confusing for new parents to figure out the right approach to starting solids. In the end, the most helpful suggestion I received was simply to “follow baby’s lead.” Because every baby is unique, as with so many aspects of parenting, there’s a lot you just have to figure out as you go along.

Alyssa Chirco is a mother of two who writes about parenting and family life for publications across the country. Both of her children tried sweet potatoes as their first food, and both spit them right back out.

WHAT’S THE DEAL WITH RICE CEREAL? The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has been investigating concerns over high levels of inorganic arsenic in rice cereal since 2012.

Because infants consume more rice relative to their body weight than adults, primarily due to the consumption of rice cereal, the FDA now recommends that infant rice cereal should contain no more than 100 parts per billion of inorganic arsenic.

Inorganic arsenic is a human carcinogen with the potential to pose serious health risks. But FDA testing has concluded that most rice cereals on the market are safe, since they already have levels below or near the newly proposed limit. The agency’s position is that it is OK to feed your baby rice cereal as a source of iron.

However, both the FDA and the American Academy of Pediatrics note that there are other iron-fortified infant cereals available as part of a varied and balanced diet.

SOURCE: FDA PROPOSES LIMIT FOR INORGANIC ARSENIC IN INFANT RICE CEREAL, FDA.GOV/ NEWSEVENTS/NEWSROOM/PRESSANNOUNCEMENTS/UCM493740.HTM

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out about SUMMER 2016 ALL COUNTIES KIDS BOWL FREE June 13-Aug. 21. Daily. Registered kids are eligible to bowl 2 free games a day, all summer long. Restrictions apply. Chck locations at kidsbowlfree.com REGAL SUMMER MOVIE EXPRESS June 14. Cool off indoors with select titles on Tuesdays and Wednesdays throughout the summer. $1, regmovies. com/Movies/Summer-Movie-Express.

INEMARK SUMMER MOVIE CLUBHOUSE June 6. 10-week program featuring recently released G and PG films for kids.

Cinemark.com/summer-movie-clubhouse

MIAMI-DADE REDLAND SUMMER FRUIT FESTIVAL June 18-19. Tropical fruits, vendor booths, local wines, food and rare fruit samplings. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fruit & Spice Park, 24801 SW 187th Ave., Homestead. $8; ages 11 and under free. 305-2475727 or fruitandspicepark.org GRAPELAND WATER PARK FAMILY FRIDAY DIVE-IN MOVIE June 24, July 29, Aug. 26, Sept. 30.

5:30-10 p.m. Grapeland Water Park, 1550 NW 37th Ave, Miami. $5. 305-960-2950, miamigov.com/grapeland, or grapeland@ miamigov.com FLORIDA SUPERCON July 1-4. Celebrity guests, comic book creators, voice actors, cosplayers, films & shorts, costume & cosplay contests, anime, gaming and more. Miami Beach Convention Center, 1901 Convention Center Drive, Miami Beach. Tickets start at $25, or $5 for children. floridasupercon.com HIALEAH INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION July 4. Music, Kid Zone, food, beverag-

in your neighborhood

es and fireworks show with music, lasers and light. Parking and admission are free.

6-10:30 p.m. Ted Hendricks Stadium, 4800 Palm Ave., Hialeah. 305-889-5714 or hialeahfl.gov FIRE ON THE FOURTH FESTIVAL July 4. Food trucks, live music and DJs. Fireworks at 9 p.m. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

North Shore Park Bandshell, 73rd Street and Collins Avenue, Miami Beach. miamiandbeaches.com AMERICA’S BIRTHDAY BASH July 4. Kid zone, food, petting zoo, giveaways and music. Fireworks at 9 p.m.

Noon-midnight. Bayfront Park, 301 N. Biscayne Blvd., Miami. 305-358-7550 or miami4thofjuly.com 56TH ANNUAL FOURTH OF JULY PARADE July 4. Floats, bands and decorated golf carts. Kiwanis Picnic on the Village Green follows the parade. Offshore fireworks display st 9 p.m. Begins at 11 a.m. along Crandon Boulevard from Harbor Drive to West Enid, Key Biscayne. kb4.org COCONUT GROVE 4TH OF JULY July 4. Interactive art, balloon animals, ice cream and more. Fireworks at 9 p.m.

Bring blankets and seating. Opens at 5 p.m. Peacock Park, 2820 McFarlane Road, Coconut Grove. 305-575-5256 or miamiandbeaches.com

Hotel, 1200 Anastasia Ave., Coral Gables.

305-445-1926 or biltmorehotel.com 4TH OF JULY IN BAL HARBOUR July 4. Fireworks display at the jetty on the beach. 9 p.m. North end of Bal Harbour Beach at 101st Street, overlooking Haulover Inlet. miamiandbeaches.com ANNUAL RACE TO THE FOURTH July 4. Music, food trucks, kids rides, rock-climbing wall and games. Fireworks at 9 p.m. Event is 6-10 p.m. Homestead Miami Speedway, One Ralph Sanchez Speedway Blvd., Homestead. 305-2305000 or miamiandbeaches.com 4TH OF JULY FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR July 4. 9 p.m. Black Point Park & Marina, 24775 SW 87th Ave., Miami. 305-2584092 or miamiandbeaches.com

BROWARD MUVICO SUMMER KIDS SERIES June 9. Thursdays at 10 a.m. Muvico Broward 18, 2315 N. Federal Highway, Pompano Beach. $4 includes popcorn and drink. 954-946-8416 or carmike.com

INDEPENDENCE DAY HOT DOG EATING CONTEST July 4. Old-Fashioned Picnic 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bring your own picnic basket or buy one onsite. Contest at 6 p.m. The Barnacle Historic State Park, 3485 Main Highway, Coconut Grove. $5. 305-442-6866 or miamiandbeaches.com

PARADISE COVE WATER PARK 900 N. Flamingo Road, Pembroke Pines CASTAWAY ISLAND WATER PARK 3300 N. Park Road, Hollywood SPLASH ADVENTURE WATER PARK Quiet Waters Park, 401 S. Powerline Road, Deerfield Beach TROPICAL SPLASH WATER PARK 3700 NW 11th Place, Lauderhill. 9:30 a.m.-5:20 p.m. $5.25; age 12 months and under free. Gate entrance fee weekends and holidays, $1.50 ages 6 and up. 954357-5400 or broward.org

4TH OF JULY AT THE BILTMORE HOTEL July 4. Hosted by CBS4 evening news anchors. Greater Miami Symphonic Band and fireworks at 9 p.m. 5-11 p.m. Biltmore

DEERFIELD BEACH SUMMER MUSIC FEST June 11. Music, entertainment, kid’s zone, arts, crafts and food. Noon to 6 p.m.

Oveta McKeithen Recreational Complex, JUNE 2016 |

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Nova Southeastern University Alvin Sherman Library y

SUMMER KICK-OFF PARTY!!

FREE/OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Sunday, June 12, 2016

1 - 4 PM All Ages

Laugh along at a comedic show starring Bucky and GiGi, dance at our FAB karaoke party, have your face painted and more!

Early online signups for our “Reading Rewards”Program starts May 20

public.libary.nova.edu/summer

A joint-use facility between Nova Southeastern University and the Broward County Board of County Commissioners

parking is $1 per hour

954-262-5477

Nova Southeastern University Alvin Sherman Library 3100 Ray Ferrero, Jr., Blvd. Fort Lauderdale- Davie, Florida 33328 Part of the READ FOR THE FUN OF IT! Initiative, funded by the Erwin and Barbara Mautner Charitable Foundation.

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Indoor Play Places

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445 SW 2nd St., Deerfield Beach. deerfield-beach.com COLORS OF THE CARIBBEAN June 18. Caribbean travel expo, YMCA Kids Zone, food, arts, folk dance and culture performances. 4-11 p.m. Hollywood ArtsPark at Young Circle, 1 N. Young Circle, Hollywood. Free. 305-433-7833 or colorsofthecaribbean.com CORAL SPRINGS 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION July 4. Games, bounce houses, food and entertainment. Fireworks at 9 p.m. Fees for bounce houses and games. Parking $3.

4 p.m. Mullins Park, 10150 Ben Geiger Drive, Coral Springs. 954-345-2200 or coralsprings.org PLANTATION INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE July 4. Theme “Sweet Land of Liberty.”

Parade begins at 9 a.m. at Broward Boulevard and NW 46th Avenue, goes west to 69th Avenue, turns north onto 4th Street and ends at City Hall. 954-452-2510 DEERFIELD BEACH 4TH OF JULY July 4. Music, arts & crafts, vendors, and fireworks. Noon-9 p.m. Main Beach Parking Lot, 149 SE 21st Ave., Deerfield.

954-480-4429 or deerfield-beach.com PEMBROKE PINES INDEPENDENCE DAY CEL-

EBRATION & FIREWORKS SHOW July 4. Food Trucks, free rides for kids, band and fireworks show. No coolers, pets or fireworks. Bring blankets and lawn chairs. 6-9 p.m. Pines Recreation Center Festival Grounds, 7400 Pines Blvd., Pembroke Pines. 954-435-6525 or ppines.com POMPANO BEACH JULY 4TH FIREWORKS EXTRAVAGANZA July 4. Live music, featuring Chain Reaction, a Journey Tribute Band, a live DJ, and fireworks. 6-9 p.m. Pompano Pier, 222 N. Pompano Beach Blvd. 954-7864111 or pompanobeachfl.gov MIRAMAR INDEPENDENCE DAY July 4. Water slides, bounce houses, food trucks, music and fireworks show.

7- 9 p.m. Miramar Regional Park, 16801 Miramar Parkway, Miramar. 954-602-3319 or fl-miramar.civicplus.com “HOORAY FOR HOLLYWOOD” PARADE & FAMILY FUN DAY July 4. Movie-themed floats, free food, rides and children’s entertainment. 9 a.m.noon. City Park, 6700 Sunset Strip, Sunrise. Free. 954-747-4600 or sunrisefl.gov SUNRISE CONCERT AND FIREWORKS July 4. Music, fireworks, food and a children’s fun zone. 5-10 p.m. Outside the

BB&T Center, One Panther Parkway, Sunrise. Free. 954-747-4600 or sunrisefl.gov TAMARAC 4TH OF JULY ALL AMERICAN CELEBRATION July 4. Live music by “Free Radicals”.

Food trucks on site. Kids area includes face painting, inflatable rides, games, and crafts. 6-9:30 p.m. Tamarac Sports Complex, 9901 NW 77th St., Tamarac. 954597-3620 or tamarac.org WESTON 4TH OF JULY HOMETOWN PARADE July 4. The parade goes east from Town Center Blvd. and Three Village Road to Bonaventure Boulevard. then south to Bell Tower Lane and Weston Town Center.

10:30 a.m. westonfl.org FIREWORKS AND FAMILY FUN DAY July 4. Sports, activities, Fun Foam spray with the Davie Fire Department, music, bounce houses, crafts, food trucks and fireworks at 9 p.m. Personal fireworks not allowed. 7 a.m.-9 p.m. Pine Island Park, 3801 S. Pine Island Road, Davie.

954-797-1163. Free. davie-fl.gov OLD FASHIONED FOURTH July 4. Old-fashioned games, 1950’s costume contests, watermelon and pie eating contests, ‘50s music and half-price admission. 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Flamingo

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Gardens, 3750 S. Flamingo Road, Davie.

954-473-2955 or Flamingogardens.org CORAL SPRINGS 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION July 4. Games, bounce houses, food, entertainment and fireworks at 9 p.m.

Opens at 6 p.m. Free; parking $3. Mullins Park, 10150 Ben Geiger Drive, Coral Springs. 954-345-2200 or coralsprings.org DEERFIELD BEACH JULY 4TH CELEBRATION July 4. Entertainment, music, arts & crafts, food, beverages and fireworks show.

Free. Noon to 10 p.m. Main Beach Parking Lot, 149 SE 21st Ave., Deerfield Beach. deerfield-beach.com

PALM BEACH CALYPSO BAY WATERPARK Seminole Palms Park, 151 Lamstein Lane, Royal Palm Beach.

COCONUT COVE WATERPARK June 3-Aug. 14. Burt Aaronson South County Regional Park, 20130 Regional Park Drive, Boca Raton. $10.60; ages 3-11, $8.60; ages 1-2, $4.60. 561-629-8840 or pbcgov.com/parks/aquatics/waterparks SUSHI AND STROLL SUMMER WALK SERIES June 10, July 8, Aug. 12, Sept. 9. Families can walk through the gardens, watch

the sunset and listen to taiko drums. 5:308:30 p.m. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach. $7; ages 4-10, $5. Taiko tickets +$2. 561-495-0233 or Morikami.org MIZNER PARK DOWNTOWN DRIVE CAR SHOW June 19. View 100 cars, including antiques, classics, street rods, custom builds, race cars and one-of-a-kind autos from 1900 to present day. Benefits MakeA-Wish Southern Florida. 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Mizner Park, 327 Plaza Real, Boca Raton.

Free. 954- 315-1186 or miznerpark.com FOURTH ON FLAGLER July 2-4. BBQ, Brews & Blues, shopping and Monday night fireworks show. Visit website for schedule of events. West Palm Beach Waterfront, 401 Clematis St., West Palm Beach 561-822-1515 or wpb.org DELRAY BEACH’S JULY 4TH CELEBRATION July 4. Music, Splash Zone, Kid’s Corner, crafts, custard eating contest for kids, burger eating for adults, and more. 4-8 p.m. Fireworks at 9 p.m. A1A & E. Atlantic Ave. in Delray Beach. julyfourthdelraybeach.com BOCA RATON FABULOUS FOURTH July 4. Free family activities and live

music. Fireworks begin at 9 p.m. Free trolley service from Boca Corporate Center and campus. 6:30-9 p.m. deHoernle Park/ Spanish River Athletics Complex, 1000 Spanish River Blvd., Boca Raton. 561-3937995 or ci.boca-raton.fl.us LANTANA JULY 4TH CELEBRATION July 4. Music, patriotic baby contest, food and more. 7 p.m. Bicentennial Park, 321 E. Ocean Ave., Lantana. lantana.org WELLINGTON JULY 4TH CELEBRATION July 4. Entertainment, bounce houses, petting zoo, face painting, pony rides, food trucks, games and contests. Free shuttle from The Mall at Wellington Green beginning at 6 p.m. Fireworks at 9:15 p.m.

6-10 p.m. Village Park, 11700 Pierson Road, Wellington. wellingtonfl.gov BOYNTON BEACH 4TH OF JULY FESTIVITIES July 4. 6-10:30 p.m. Intracoastal Park, 2240 N. Federal Highway, Boynton Beach.

561-742-6246 or boynton-beach.org WEST PALM BEACH 4TH ON FLAGLER July 4. Mini-golf course, military honor ceremony, giant flag unfurl, kids area with crafts, and food and drink. Fireworks at 9 p.m. Backpacks, coolers and personal fireworks are not permitted. 5-11 p.m.

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loud moms » loud

How to “How was your day?” Every single parent in the WORLD asks this when he or she sees their kids after a long day. Some kids respond with one-word ALLYSON TOMCHIN, LCSW answers (“fine”), and others have diarrhea of the mouth and share every detail of their day. We want to hear about their day, but sometimes I’m in shock with what kids are discussing and how much more mature they are than I ever was.

As a parent, it is my dream for my kids to tell me all of their juicy tidbits, gossip and inner thoughts. Will that happen? I’m hoping it will, but mostly likely it won’t (unless I highjack their diaries).

One of my favorite moments was when my son said, “Mommy, someone in school was telling me that her parents like to give each other massages. What’s a massage,

listen to your kids

Mom?” Now, “some” parents may have freaked out, right? Not me. If we parents get all “crazy” and react like something is wrong, our kids will feel uncomfortable and stop sharing their day with us.

So I was cool (well, I thought I was), and I explained what a massage was.

Which of course led to several other questions that I was not prepared to answer. But I managed to navigate through the muddy waters of what a “massage” is and why adults like them.

The “how was your day” icing on the cake came from my daughter (who is brutally honest and very observant).

She started talking about the performance that she’s been practicing, her costume and how excited she was about the show. After dinner, we were chatting about her hairstyle for the performance, and she said, “Mommy, AfricanAmerican girls that can’t do a ponytail should do the best they can.”

I said, “What did you say?” She repeated it again.

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I took a deep breath, gathered my thoughts and asked, “Do you know what that means?” My daughter said, “Yes, that means that black girls that can’t put their hair in a ponytail should do the best they can with their hair.” I replied, “Yes, that is correct.”

I also told her that if she hears anyone single out another race (any race) like that again in the future, she should question that individual and ask why that was said.

I wrapped up the conversation by saying, “For the record, ponytails are always an option for black girls because we can buy them.” She laughed, and I said, “Thank you for sharing and telling me about your day.”

I’ve learned that asking “How was your day?” means sharing things about friends, teachers, mentors, coaches, school, activities and your entire day. All of that “stuff” that may be uncomfortable to hear (at times) is all of the “stuff” that we parents long to hear and need to hear.

So the next time you ask your child “How was your day?” just listen, process and engage. If you get the one-word answer (fine), ask a different question.

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moMENts » a

The

dad's view

pacing father

BY PATRICK HEMPFING

In a few weeks, I’ll be celebrating my 12th Father’s Day. I remember the evening I became a father and held my baby girl for the first time.

Recently, a different kind of delivery – cupcakes – made me realize that fathers spend a lot of time waiting, often under stressful conditions.

The day before my daughter, Jessie’s, last birthday, she and I went to the bakery department of our local store and ordered 48 cupcakes – a dozen vanilla and threedozen chocolate. Jessie asked for buttercream icing, sprayed with rainbow colors and topped with sprinkles. I emphasized, “Please have them ready by 9:30 tomorrow morning.”

My job was to deliver the cupcakes to Jessie’s school by 10:45 a.m. so she could share them with her friends at recess. I arrived at the bakery at 9:45. The employee behind the counter was decorating a cake.

“Good morning. I’d like to pick up the cupcakes I ordered yesterday. It’s under Patrick Hempfing.”

“Oh, I was getting ready to call you. I couldn’t read the writing on the order form. How many dozen did you want?”

My heart sank. She didn’t even start yet? I calmly explained my order from the previous day and asked, “Would you please, please hurry? I need to be out of here no later than 10:10.”

She looked at me sternly and said, “I’m finishing this cake order now. The cupcakes are made; I only need to decorate them.”

I paced up the aisle past the muffins and pies. I paced down the aisle alongside the donuts and bread. The thought of snacking on a donut for comfort crossed my mind. I kept walking by the bakery to monitor the progress. Finally, the decorator grabbed four clear-plastic containers and filled each slot with a cupcake. She put white icing in her cone-shaped pastry bag and squeezed a swirl on each cupcake. I complimented her for doing it quickly, trying to motivate her to finish as soon as possible. The clock was ticking.

As I paced, it occurred to me that 11 years ago to the day, I paced outside of my wife’s operating room. Mattie had a C-section, and I had to wait in the hall while they put in the epidural. I vividly remember walking back and forth in front of the

WIN ME! Just in time for Father’s Day, Patrick has published his first book, MoMENts: A Dad Holds On. The book compiles favorite stories and new material and is available for sale on Amazon.com, or you can win a copy now at SouthFloridaParenting.com.

door, trying not to puke. Apparently, little has changed.

On one of my strolls past the cake decorator, she asked what colors I wanted. By this time, it didn’t matter. “How about pink, yellow and green?” she asked. I gave a quick approval and paced some more.

A few times I stopped and peeked over the counter to check her progress. Then something else hit me: Eleven years ago, I could have looked over the blue paper that divided Mattie’s top half from her bottom half, where they were working on the C-section. That time, instead of monitoring the progress, I opted to remain firmly in the chair by Mattie’s head. There was no way I was going to peek over at that.

At 10:07 a.m., I finally stood in the checkout line with four-dozen cupcakes.

They weren’t cheap. Again, I thought back 11 years – the cupcakes were a lot less expensive than the hospital bills that followed Jessie’s birth.

I rushed home to pick up Mattie and the plates, napkins and drinks. We made it to Jessie’s school a few minutes early, and the knots in my stomach began to loosen.

Jessie’s friends enjoyed the cupcakes, though vanilla was more popular than we expected, and I worried we’d run out and be left with just chocolate. How could cupcakes be so stressful? But I didn’t pace, and we left the school playground with two vanilla cupcakes and lots of chocolate ones remaining. Eleven years earlier, I left the operating room with one

beautiful baby girl.

That beautiful girl now bakes me something special each year for Father’s Day. When she’s creating masterpieces in the kitchen, she usually requests, “Don’t look.” If she asks that this year, I’ll try not to pace or peek at what’s going on, even if my kitchen becomes a sprinkle-covered disaster zone.

Instead, I’ll make every effort to relax and reflect on the joy of being a father.

I’ll remember that when Jessie was born, I didn’t look over that blue-paper divider, where I’m sure things were pretty messy, but I sure have enjoyed what came out.

Until next month, remember to cherish the moments. Happy Father’s Day! Patrick Hempfing had a 20-year professional career in banking, accounting and auditing before he became a father at age 44. He is now a full-time husband, stay-at-home dad and writer. Follow Patrick at www.facebook. com/patricklhempfing and on Twitter @PatrickHempfing.

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glamazon » mama

Sweets with purpose & parenting survival tips from a reality TV star

BY JOANIE COX-HENRY this was to create a place where families could really come together,” Alibhai said.

“I wanted to make this experience about getting away from electronics and getting closer. The toys we carry promote education and imagination.

We don’t sell any electronic toys.”

Smooshies stocks everything from toys to taffy, with different novelty candies, pastries, ice cream and even sugar-free DR. KENNIFF AND HIS FAMILY. candies. the television show “Survivor,” but now The idea for her candy shop was the Miami-based neurologist and author is born through Alibhai’s own love for thrilled to be on his most rewarding jourcandy as a child in Cuba. While she ney yet—fatherhood. was growing up, Alibhai’s mother Kenniff, who recently purchased a worked in candy factory and often home with his wife, Esther, in Weston, brought her toys and trinkets she is now dad to his daughter Lilou, 3, and shaped out of leftover candy.

1-year-old twins, Lola and Logan. “‘SurThese were Alibhai’s only toys, vivor’ didn’t teach me a whole lot about so it left an impression on her. parenting, but there are definitely some Now a mother to her own similarities between the show and raising three children, ages 6, 9 and GIGI ALIBHAI kids,” Kenniff said. “The unpredictability, 10, Alibhai is eager to use long sleepless nights, personal info from her business to help others other people — that’s all definitely part of by donating a percentage of it. I think to be on ‘Survivor,’ you have to every sale to charity. be a durable person, and you have to be “Our business model is flexible,” Kenniff said. “I didn’t win ‘Survery much about sweets vivor,’ but maybe I’ll win at fatherhood.” with a purpose,” Alibhai Kenniff said his children do not know said. “My mom never he was a TV star appearing on “Survivor” realized how what she and a few episodes of soap opera “Guiddid for me as a child ing Light,” and he plans to keep it that would impact me so way. “When my season of ‘Survivor’ was much later in life.” on, it was recorded on VHS tapes,” KenVisit smooshies. niff laughed. “I mean, by the time they get com for details. old enough to watch it, they’re not even going to have a way to watch it because PARENTING TIPS the technology continues to advance so FROM A TRUE much.”

“SURVIVOR” He looks to his own childhood as a Dr. Sean guiding light in raising his own children.

Kenniff shot “I hit the parent jackpot with my mom to fame on and dad,” Kenniff said. “Fatherhood the first changes you. When you’re very young, season of

For Miami mother Gigi Alibhai, life has never been sweeter.

Alibhai is the woman behind Smooshies, an innovative toy, ice cream and coffee shop that’s designed for parents and children to have a hangout to enjoy g together.

She has two Smooshies locations, in Key Biscayne and in Coconut Grove across from The Shops at Sunset Place.

“The whole purpose of

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glamazon » mama you may have dreams about becoming a movie star or changing the world. Now I’m happy just to have a tea party in the backyard with my kids. I love my family, and I think once you become a father, you really start living life for your kids.”

Kenniff’s top tip to parents everywhere is to stop overthinking everything. “Be prepared to be unprepared,” Kenniff said.

“There’s no predicting what will happen next.”

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As you know, not all children are born healthy. Some have a dangerously low birth weight.

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Others are critically ill.

That’s where Broward Health Children’s Hospital comes in.

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financial

» matters

A GOOD INVESTMENT: Financial lessons through stories

BY ELIZABETH ROBERTS Stories make life lessons stick, and the summer reading lists of South Florida’s students could be an opportunity to giftwrap financial lessons in summer reading assignments.

I asked students in Coral Springs, Deerfield Beach and Lighthouse Point to name their favorite story about the benefits of hard work or of saving and spending wisely. For Leah DelaCruz, 11, it was a story about a boy who really wanted trumpet lessons.

“His father said, `That’s foolish. I am a fisherman,’ ” said Leah, a fifth-grader at Renaissance Charter School in Coral Springs. “So he worked in a mill and saved money for lessons and became a professional player, but not famous.”

Serenity Amerson was 7 when she discovered Peppa Pig. Three years later, she relates verbatim how Peppa did chores and earned enough for $15 boots. Asked

the title, however, she shook her head. “It was a book that came with Nick Jr.,” she said.

Julie Sims and her son Schuler are crossovers, wedded to new media and books. “This has become a priority. He has to read,” Sims said of her 9-year-old, who was gathering books dropped onto Lighthouse Point library’s floor.

But they go outside of books for financial lessons. “We’ve been doing the financial thing for four years with Dave Ramsey. He’s a radio guy who does finances for adults and has the Adventures of Junior,” Sims said. “We do that as a family.”

Teachers can hand out summer reading lists, but much of what kids retain comes from other media. Either way, summer can be a prime opportunity to wrap personal finance into a memorable story.

Here are a few stories that crop up on recommended lists: For ages 3 to 7: Rosemary Wells and Stan and Jan Bearenstain. The well-known

authors and familiar characters offer fable-like tales. The popular Bearenstain Bear series includes two personal finance books: “Trouble with Money” and also “Dollars and Sense,” while Wells’ “Bunny Money” sees Max and Ruby succumb to child-friendly temptations like vampire teeth and fritter away money for their grandmother’s birthday present.

For ages 5 to 7, Vera Williams’ “A Chair for My Mother” tells of a family saving a little at a time until they achieve a goal: Buying a comfortable chair for their mother.

My personal favorite? It’s “Uncle Jed’s Barber Shop,” a sweet story for ages 7-10.

Uncle Jed, the county’s only black barber, walks up to 30 miles to cut the hair of clients as he saves to open a shop with four chairs and “sinks so shiny they sparkle.” When opening day finally comes, he is 79. How is that for a story about working, saving, donating and persevering? A life lesson for sure.

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stages »

paternity

A Salute to the New Dads: the “new” all-in child-raising partners KAREN DEERWESTER, ED.S. The days of Ward Cleaver, the 1950’s father from “Leave it to Beaver,” the sole bread winner and disciplinarian, are done and gone.

“Wait till your father gets home” no longer inspires fear and trembling in the souls of mischievous children.

Certainly hands-on, heart-in dads are not really “new.” But there is a major shift underway in parenting roles, and it is very much still in progress.

If you are dad with a young child today, you are a significant player in writing the new rules for the Dad-game. You get to decide and define how dads look, act, speak and sometimes struggle with being a parent.

PewSocialTrends.org reported in March 2013 that parents were spending their time very differently than 50 years ago: “Dads are doing more housework and child care and moms more paid work outside the home. Neither has overtaken

the other in their “traditional” realms, but their roles are converging.”

Pew Research Center also reported in April 2015 that both working dads and moms were equally stressed over juggling work and family life. And when it comes to how parents rate themselves on how they are doing as parents, working dads are more likely than working and nonworking moms to say they don’t spend enough time with their children.

Worse, the dads who say they didn’t spend enough time with their children grade themselves lower on their parenting job, despite clear evidence that the children are happy and thriving. According to Pew Research Center from March 2013: The journal article found that – just as with mothers’ time – the amount of time dads spend with their children does not have a significant impact on the children’s well-being.

Of all the changes in parenting roles and attitudes, from changing work schedules, dual income families and technology to increased participation in daily decision-making, this is the one that may be the seismic shift: Dads are beginning to feel the mom-guilt.

Dads are the diaper changers and codecision makers. Dads are informed about care-giving routines and as anxious as moms about developmental stages.

Gender convergence in parenting roles is well under way. And it’s good – good for the child who experiences the world with a second loving person, good for mom to share the often tedious caregiving stuff, and good for fathers who are allowed to bring their softer side to parenting.

According to the “Boston Globe” in June 2015: “A major meta-analysis of studies of

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stages »

paternity

nearly 30,000 parents by psychologists Hugh Lytton and David Romney of the University of Calgary found no significant differences between mothers and fathers in seven critical parenting areas: warmth, nurturance, responsiveness, encouragement of dependence, restrictiveness, low encouragement of independence, and disciplinary strictness. In other words, mothers and fathers aren’t on Venus and Mars when it comes to interacting with children. They’re very much on the same planet.”

Dads and moms now share the emotional and the financial burden of raising children, the physical protection and the social encouragement.

Even household chores are more equitably shared today among dual-earner families. According to Pew Research Center in March 2013, “When paid work, child care and housework are combined ... fathers put in, on average, 58 hours of total work time a week compared with 59 hours for mothers.

Dads still play more, but maybe not as much as you would think. Pew Research Center’s 2012 American Time Use Survey found: “Among parents with children under age 18, fathers spend, on average, 28 hours per week on leisure activities, while mothers spend 25 hours on leisure.”

Dads often get the bad rap for being the “fun parent.” Maybe that’s another mythic hangover from old Hollywood role models (aka Adam Sandler in “Big Daddy”) that haven’t caught up with the Pew reports.

But there is some mom-envy that dads have more fun.

Yet, as dads actively redefine what it means to be a dad and how it feels to be a dad, we might want to protect the “fun dad” attitude and share some of it with mom.

This may be the last hope for balance in a parenting universe that Jennifer Senior described as “All Joy and No Fun.” If dads begin to measure themselves against the impossible standards that moms feel, if the “new dad” is a be-it-all ideal of perfection and the day-to-day reality is feeling not-enough, then everyone loses.

Bravo for a world of active, nurturing, hands-on, care-giving dads. Policy and practices that support work-life integration for moms and dads need to catch up with reality.

Every day, family programs are rethinking how to offer gender-neutral support and engagement. This train is still moving.

Let’s make sure it doesn’t get derailed by the kind of stress, guilt and self-doubt that took over the mom-ride.

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stages » preteen

Giving our girls the gift of a thick skin

BY MARGARET SAGARESE Females get more flack. Yes, a recent Fortune.com survey of workplace performance reviews turned up unfair, bad news for females.

According to the study done by Kieran Snyder, a linguist and a tech entrepreneur, women got more negative criticism compared with men regardless of whether the feedback came from a male or a female.

And 76 percent of that review included personal jabs and negative comments about personality compared with 2 percent aimed at men.

Now, I don’t know if preteen girls get more complaints about their performance on the field, the debate team, as class president or during a mathletes competition, but my guess would be yes.

“You like me, you really like me!”

Sally Field’s “You like me” gush upon winning an Academy Award has become legendary. The clip spontaneously articulated a universal, deep-seated feminine desire to be liked. Where does this desire to be liked, to be likable, come from?

Going way back for centuries, females had to rely on being likable to survive.

As the weaker sex, literally, they couldn’t physically protect themselves. Having no

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legitimate rights to own property, they couldn’t fight for themselves legally or financially.

Author Tata Mohr explains the female predicament in a “New York Times” piece titled “Learning to Love Criticism”: “Disapproval, criticism and the withdrawal of others’ approval can feel so petrifying for us at times – life threatening, even – because for millenniums, it was.”

Craving acceptance and praise and being overly fearful of criticism is a feminine legacy from our past. It has been recognized and researched before in the context of business. I recall writing a piece years ago about how women seek praise for a job well done, while men seek promotion, titles and an increase in salary.

I also found women blame themselves when they fail, while men blame the situation or someone else.

THE WAY TO A THICKER SKIN

Young adolescents of both genders are self-conscious to begin with. They long for peer acceptance and are overly sensitive to rejection. Girls struggle with appearance issues (as do boys) as they compare

and contrast themselves to the air-brushed models in music videos and in magazines and to selfies on Facebook or Instagram.

Tweens begin to evaluate their skills in relation to others and have to handle not measuring up academically or athletically.

Tweenagers of color have to grapple with the realization that they are discriminated against because they live in a world that is still unequal.

How can we as parents help our fragile young adolescents, particularly girls, who will have to face and process more flack than boys?

Start by having a conversation with your daughters about the fact that females do receive more criticism in the workplace than their male colleagues. Begin your own investigation to see whether this holds true in your personal experience.

Ask your husband to comment. Have your tweens begin to compare and contrast criticism of boys and girls in class.

Model how to handle criticism for your tween. As an author, I always have to deal with editorial reactions to my articles or book manuscripts. Many times an editor has pointed out areas that required

JUNE 2016

5/18/16 1:52 PM

stages » preteen changes or more research or had inconsistencies.

I hated being told my copy was not flawless. My response: Take a full 24 hours to nurse my bruised ego before evaluating critiques. After a “pity pot” time-out, the next day delivered a more objective take on any advice. More often than not, the critique made sense to me.

Adjusting my writing would give me a better article or book.

I shared this with my own daughter as she moved through middle school. She adopted my ritual as she moved through high school, college and a career as a scientist, always producing papers and always facing reviews.

Evaluate the motives behind the critic.

Sometimes negative feedback comes from a well-intentioned place. The critic often has your best interests in mind. He or she wants you to improve your performance or your product and become successful. However, this is not always the case.

There are times when a critique comes

to compete with the big wheels.” Once you are aware of this, you can silence the harsh voice of that inner critic.

Underline the fact that all outstanding performances, all original work, all controversial opinions will stir up both positive and negative feedback. This will always be true. Throughout our lives, whether on the field, in the classroom or in the workplace, there will always be critics and cheerleaders. The best thing to teach our daughters is that the playing field may not always be level. That is unfortunately still true. That said, girls (and boys) should strive to measure up first and foremost to their own standards, their own review and evaluation. Then deal with the other opinions. A moral compass is key. A thick skin is, too.

from a mean-spirited, angry or jealous person. The intent is to wound you, humiliate you or tear you down. Learning to read motives is a skill that we need to explore with our daughters. It’s easier to evaluate and dismiss bruising flack when we can recognize petty motives and maneuvers.

Share an instance with your tweens when someone unfairly tried to sabotage you out of spite or envy.

Dig into psychological territory and your own mirror. “New York Times” writer Tara Mohr brings up an interesting phenomenon. Each of us has vulnerable spots. She suggests that certain harsh critiques may be triggering and reflecting self-doubt. She asks, “Does that criticism in some way mirror what I believe about myself? When and why did that negative self-concept arise? Does it reflect the truth?” She explains with an example about a woman not feeling she is smart enough. A negative review may louden that self-defeating inner voice chiding, “I told you that you weren’t smart enough

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Margaret Sagarese is a popular speaker and the coauthor of six books for parents of young adolescents. She can be reached at msagarese@aol.com.

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June

Events updated daily on our website

NG.COM

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SOUTHFLOR

» Calendar

Find more fun things to do online.

» calendar index

1 Wednesday MIAMI-DADE

Sensational Story ‘n More. Ages 2-4. 2-2:45 p.m. Wednesdays. Schoolhouse Children’s Museum and Learning Center, 129 E Ocean Ave., Boynton Beach. $5.

561-742-6780

BROWARD

Mommy & Me Painting. Explore a different artist and create a painting inspired by his or her work. 10:1511 a.m. Young At Art Museum, 751 SW 121st Ave., Davie. $5. 954-424-0085 or youngatartmuseum.org

PALM BEACH

Family Night with the Food Trucks at Sunset Cove Amphitheater. 5-9 p.m. Sunset Cove Amphitheater, 11200 Park Access Road, Boca Raton. foodtruckinvasion.com

2 Thursday MIAMI-DADE

Storytime. All ages. 12:30 p.m. Daily. Miami Children’s Museum, 980 MacArthur Causeway, Miami. Included in museum admission. 305-373-5437 ext. 100 or ext. 145

Get Ready For Kindergarten. Ages 3-5. 11 a.m.

Miramar Branch Library & Education Center, 2050 Civic Center Place, Miramar. Free. RSVP. 954-357-8090

PALM BEACH

Wellington Food Truck Invasion. 5-9:30 p.m.

Wellington Amphitheater, 12300 Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington. foodtruckinvasion.com

3 Friday

Storyteller Suzy Hammer as “Sporty Sue.” 11 a.m. Imperial Point Branch Library, 5985 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale. Free. RSVP. 954-357-6530 34th Annual Take-A-Kid Fishin’ Rodeo. For children up to 12. Admission includes bait, lunch, a goodie bag, and an event T-shirt for the first 200 kids to register. Prizes awarded. 7:30 a.m. Davie Golf and Country Club, 8201 Nova Drive, Davie. $9. davie-fl.gov Free Cartoon Drawing Class. 2 p.m. Saturdays.

The Village at Gulfstream Park, Barker Animation Art Gallery, 501 South Federal Highway, Hallandale Beach. Free.

954-457-2280 or thevillageatgulfstreampark.com

PALM BEACH

Folklife Fridays Festival Liberty City. Street festival with entertainment, food and clothing. First Friday of every month. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 9th Street Pedestrian Mall (NW 9th Street & NW 2nd Ave), Miami.

Editor’s Picks

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Theater, Shows, Concerts

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Festival Highlights

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Exhibits for Families

editor’s picks May 5, Sunday MIAMI-DADE COUNTY

Bark At The Park With The Miami Marlins. Miami Marlins vs. the New York Mets.

Dog ticket sales will benefit the Humane Society of Broward County. 1:10 p.m. Marlins Park, 501 Marlins Way, Miami. Humans, $16; dogs, $10. marlins.com/barkbroward

5 Sunday Bark At The Park With The Miami Marlins.

Miami Marlins vs. the New York Mets. Dog ticket sales will benefit the Humane Society of Broward County. 1:10 p.m.

Marlins Park, 501 Marlins Way, Miami. Humans, $16; dogs, $10. marlins.com/barkbroward

BROWARD

BROWARD

First Friday Food Trucks. Live music. 5-9 p.m.

First Friday of the month. Flamingo Gardens, 3750 S Flamingo Road, Davie. Free. 954-473-2955

Artspark Funtastic Fridays And Movie Night.

Bounce house, face painters and more. Movie begins at 8 p.m. 5-8 p.m. ArtsPark, 1 Young Circle, Hollywood. Free.

954-921-3500 or visithollywoodfl.org

PALM BEACH

Family Fun. Kids eat free. Bounce house, magicians, balloon artist, marshmallow roast and music. 5 p.m. Every Friday. Lake Worth Beach Club, One Seventh Ave., North, Lake Worth. 561-585-8976

4 Saturday MIAMI-DADE

Splish, Splash – It’s Oceans Month. Obstacle courses, dance parties, and straw javelin throwing, create

southfloridaparenting.com |

Detective and investigate a new mystery each month.

11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N, Ocean Blvd., Boca Raton. Member, $5; nonmember, $8. 561-544-8605 or gumbolimbo.org Bookworm Storytime. Ages 1-5. 10:30 Saturdays.

Highland Beach Municipal Library, 3618 S Ocean Blvd., Highland Beach. Free. 561-278-5455

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MIAMI-DADE

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BROWARD

Nature Detectives. Ages 5-7. Become a Nature

BROWARD

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a clay medal, and enjoy original theater productions by MCM Players. 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. Miami Children’s Museum, 980 MacArthur Causeway, Miami. 305-373-5437 or miamichildrensmuseum.org Book & Books Storytime. 10 a.m. Saturdays. Books & Books, 265 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables. Free. 305-4424408

Downtown Hollywood Dream Car Classic Car Show. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. First Sunday of every month.

Free. Downtown Hollywood on Hollywood Blvd. 954-8251027 Sunday Jazz Brunch. Free, live outdoor concert series. Bring chairs, blankets, and picnic baskets. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. First Sunday of the month. Performances along the Riverwalk off Las Olas Blvd. 954-828-5363

PALM BEACH

South Florida Parenting’s Baby & Toddler Fair Presented By Broward Health. Features exhibitors who will showcase baby and toddler products and introduce services for parents of toddlers, new parents and parents-to-be. Educational seminars, Diaper derbies, toddler play area, “Put Your Feet Up” Lounge, goodie bags, and more. The Pavilion, 301 Yamato Road, Boca Raton. $10 in advance and $15 at the door. SunSentinel.com/SouthFloridaParenting.com

May 19, Sunday PALM BEACH COUNTY

Family Fun: Father’s Day Fish Printlly capture local fish with ing. Learn to artistically the traditional Japanesee fish otaku. printing technique, gyotaku.

Noon-3 p.m. Morikami Museum and Japanesee Gardens, 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delrayy ges Beach. Adults, $15, ages 233 6-17, $9. 561-495-0233 or morikami.org

JUNE 2016

5/18/16 4:54 PM

» theater, shows & concerts WHALES, MAGIC & CHEESE- OH MY! June 4. Jojo goes to Mendyl’s Magical Book Shop, hoping he can sell his books and use the money to buy video games. But then the stories in his books come to life; now the books’ pages are blank and the characters are running wild. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Willow Theatre At Sugar Sand Park, 300 S Military Trail, Boca Raton. Adults, $7; ages 12 and under, $5. 561-347-3948 or WillowTheatre.org YOUNG MUSICIANS CONCERT June 9. Featuring the students of Vladimir Issaev Music School. Not recommended for children under 5. Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, 7:30 p.m. 3385 NE 188th St., Aventura. $20. 877-311-7469 or aventuracenter.org WLRN RADIO THEATER: THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL June 10. WLRN Radio Theater’s Sci-Fi Summer brings three of the most popular science fiction stories to the stage. Each event will include a post-show Talk Back session, where the audience can ask questions about the play, its history and the production. In “The Day the Earth Stood Still,” Klaatu and his mighty robot, Gort, land on Earth just after the end of World War II. They bring an important message, but after learning about the natives, Klaatu takes a different approach. 7:30-9:30 p.m. Crest Theatre, 51 N. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach.

KIDZ BOP LIFE OF THE PARTY TOUR June 12. Pop songs of the year, new dance moves, and more. 3 p.m. Parker Playhouse, 707 NE 8th St., Fort Lauderdale. $35-$75.

954-462-0222 or parkerplayhouse.com

6 Monday

DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST June 15-19. Based on the animated feature film. Production numbers including “Be Our Guest” and the title song. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW 5th Avenue , Fort Lauderdale.$35 - $75. 954-462-0222 or browardcenter.org

SEUSSICAL June 24-25. Dr. Seuss’s best-loved characters come to life in a musical extravaganza.

Featuring students from the Conservatory of Performing Arts. 7:30 p.m. Maltz Jupiter Theatre, 1001 E. Indiantown Road, Jupiter.

Adults, $25; students, $20. 561-575-2223 or jupitertheatre.org

AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS June 17-July 3. Based on Jules Verne’s classic novel, this new musical recounts the journey of Phileas Fogg and his servant Passepartout.

Sol Children Theatre, 3333 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton. Adults, $15; ages 11 and under, $10. 561-447-8829 or solchildren.org

DEMI LOVATO & NICK JONAS: FUTURE NOW: THE TOUR June 24. Demi Lovato and Nick Jonas kick off their North American tour. 7:30 p.m. BB&T Center, 1 Panther Parkway, Sunrise. Tickets start at $25.70. 800-745-3000, thebbtcenter. com, or ticketmaster.com

ALICE IN WONDERLAND June 29-30. Featuring updated songs from Disney’s animated motion picture. Showtime Performing Arts Theatre, 503 SE Mizner Blvd., Royal Palm Place, Boca Raton. $10. 561394-2626 or showtimeboca.com

THE GAZILLION BUBBLE SHOW June 25-26. Lasers, lighting and bubble artistry. Parker Playhouse, 707 NE 8th St., Fort Lauderdale. $34.50-$59.50.

954-462-0222,parkerplayhouse.com, or gazillionbubbleshow.com

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS June 29-30. Smash musical follows a meek florist assistant as he stumbles across a new breed of plant he names “Audrey II” and the plant’s intent of global domination. Showtime Performing Arts Theatre, 503 SE Mizner Blvd., Royal Palm Place, Boca Raton. $10. 561394-2626 or showtimeboca.com XANADU, JR. June 23-25. Summer Camp performances.

Call for information. Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave., Lake Worth. Adults, $15; Children, $10. 561-586-6410

7 Tuesday

MIAMI-DADE

MIAMI-DADE

Cuentos y Dibujos. Spanish storytime with crafts,

Family Night Storytime and Craft. Bilingual

music and riddles for school-age children. 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Mondays. JFK Memorial Library, 190 W 49th St., Hialeah.

305-821-2700 ext. 227 or hialeahfl.gov Mini Monday Mornings. Ages 0-3. Painting, sand play, story times, and a puppet show. 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Miami Children’s Museum, 980 MacArthur Causeway, Miami. $18; Florida residents, $14. 305-373-5437 or miamichildrensmuseum.org

BROWARD

Afterschool At Your Library. Homework help. 2 p.m. Hollywood Branch Library, 2600 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood. Free. RSVP. 954-357-7760 Youth Chess Club. Ages 7-17. Play the game of chess. Beginners are welcome. Boards and pieces are available. Weston Branch Library, 4205 Bonaventure Blvd., Weston. Free. RSVP. 954-357-5430

PALM BEACH

Storytime Mondays and Monday Madness Happy Hour. Ages 2-6. 10:30 a.m.-11 a.m. Free face painting. Socks required. 3-5 p.m. Cool Beans, 11701 Lake Victoria Gardens Ave., Palm Beach Gardens. $5.

561-627-1782 or coolbeansplaycafe.com Outdoor Marine Aquarium Feedings. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. 10:30, 12:30 Monday-Saturday. 1:30 Sunday. Daily. Gumbo Limbo, 1801 N Ocean Blvd Boca Raton. Free . 561-5448615 or gumbolimbo.org

story time combined with craft activities 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays. JFK Memorial Library, 190 W 49th St., Hialeah.

305-821-2700 ext. 227 or hialeahfl.gov

BROWARD

Family Storytime and Craft. 6:30 p.m. Deerfield Beach Percy White Branch Library, 837 E. Hillsboro Blvd., Deerfield Beach. Free. RSVP. 954-357-7680 Summer Time Moonlight Sea Turtle Walks.

Ages 9 and up. Evening of sea turtle exploration and identification while uncovering the natural history and myths of turtles. Nature permitting, participants will have a chance to watch a 300 pound Loggerhead sea turtle venture out of the ocean to lay her eggs. 9 p.m.-1 a.m.

Museum of Discovery and Science and AutoNation IMAX 3D Theater, 401 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale. Members $18; non-members, $20. 954-463-IMAX (4629) or mods.org Family Nights With Food Trucks. 5:30-9:30 p.m. Every Tuesday. Plantation Heritage Park, 1100 S Fig Tree Lane, Plantation. Free. 954-357-5135

PALM BEACH

IMACS Free Math and Logic Class Boca Raton. Ages 6-11. Opportunity for parents to observe their children in a real classroom setting and see firsthand how their children perform, think and respond to new ideas in this fun one-hour class. 4:15 p.m. IMACS Boca Raton, 23172 Sandalfoot Plaza Drive, Boca Raton. RSVP 561-470-1178 or imacs.org

PIPPI LONGSTOCKING June 30-July 30. A spunky 9-year-old girl is left on her own when her mother is in heaven and her father is a pirate captain off sailing the seas. Saturdays at 2 p.m. “All Kids Included” sensory-friendly Saturday performance July 23 at 11 a.m. Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre, 280 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables. $23.

305-444-4181 or actorsplayhouse.org

Afterschool Funzone Club. Ages 5-12. Dodge ball, soccer, swimming, painting, karate, dancing, social activities. Afterschool-5:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Veterans Park, 802 NE First St., Delray Beach. $10 per week. 561-243-7350 Small Fry Programs. Ages 3 and up. Story, songs, and crafts. 4 p.m. Tuesdays. Highland Beach Municipal Library, 3618 S Ocean Blvd., Highland Beach. Free. 561278-5455

8 Wednesday MIAMI-DADE

Movie Under the Stars. See website for movie title.

8 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays. Miami Beach SoundScape ExoStage, 500 17th St., Miami Beach. 305-6737577 or mbculture.com Preschool Storytime. Storytime and crafts. 2-3 a.m.

Wednesdays. JFK Memorial Library, 190 W 49th St., Hialeah. 305-821-2700 ext. 227 or hialeahfl.gov

BROWARD

Lunch Bunch. Ages 5-12. Bring your own lunch and a drink, and make projects, crafts, games and more.Noon.

Sunrise Dan Pearl Branch Library, 10500 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Sunrise. Free. RSVP. 954-357-7440 Wednesday Night Cheap Skate. $6 skating Wednesdays. Skates included. 6-8:30 p.m. Galaxy Skateway, 7500 Southgate Blvd., 954-721-0580 or 3737 N Davie Road Extension, 954-435-3300 Tamarac Food Trucks. 5:30- 9:30 p.m. Wednesdays.

Tamarac Park, 7501 N University Drive, Tamarac. Free.

954-597-3620

JUNE 2016 |

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PALM BEACH

Lighthouse Sunset Tour. Visitors get an inside look at the nuts & bolts of a working lighthouse watchroom.

Time varies by sunset. Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum, 500 Captain Armour’s Way, Jupiter. Members, $15; non-members, $20. RSVP 561-747-8380 X101 or jupiterlighthouse.org

9 Thursday MIAMI-DADE

Baby Storytime. 10:30 a.m. Miami Beach Regional Library, 227 22nd St., Miami Beach. Free. RSVP. 305535-4219

BROWARD

5-6-7-8 Let’s Dance. 2 p.m. Jan Moran Collier City Learning Library, 2800 NW 9 Court, Pompano Beach.

Free. RSVP. 954-357-7670 Concerts in the Park. Live music, bounce house, and food trucks. 6-9 p.m. Second Thursdays of the month. Old Davie School Bandshell, 6650 Griffin Road, Davie. Free.

954-797-1166

PALM BEACH

Art After Dark. The museum stays open until 9:00 p.m. Special exhibitions, live music, films, tours, cash bar, and food. Every Thursday evening. Norton Museum of Art, 1451 S Olive Ave., West Palm Beach. Adults, $12; ages 13-21, $5. 561-832-5196 Afterschool Funzone Club. Ages 5-12. Dodge ball, soccer, swimming, painting, karate, dancing, social activities. Afterschool-5:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Veterans Park, 802 NE First St., Delray Beach. $10 per week. 561-243-7350

10 Friday MIAMI-DADE

Cultural Fridays. Enjoy music and discover works by local artists and artisans. 7-11 p.m. Domino Park, SW 15th Avenue and 8th Street, Miami. Free. 305-6435500 Round Robin Read. Library staff read their favorite book. 11 a.m. Country Walk Branch Library, 15433 SW 137th Ave., Miami. Free. 786-293-4577

BROWARD

Buggin’ Out One-Day Camp Adventure.

Explore the life of insects and find some bugs. Museum of Discovery and Science and AutoNation IMAX 3D Theater, 401 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale. Adults $15; children, 2-12, $13. 954-463-IMAX (4629) or mods.org Paper Fortune Cookies. Create personalized paper fortune cookies. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Young At Art Museum, 751 SW 121st Ave., Davie. $14; Broward County residents, $12. 954-424-0085 or youngatartmuseum.org Music Under the Stars. Bring chairs and blankets.

7 p.m. Second Friday of every month. Pompano Beach Great Lawn, Atlantic Boulevard and Pompano Beach Boulevard, Pompano Beach. 954-786-4111

PALM BEACH

Eyes To The Skies. Ages 8 and up. learn about Jupiter and the Spring constellations in the night sky. 6:30 p.m. Children’s Science Explorium at Sugar Sand Park, 300 S Military Trail, Boca Raton. Free. 561-347-3913 or ScienceExplorium.org Sushi & Stroll Summer Walk Series. Twilight stroll through the 16-acre gardens. 5:30-8:30 p.m. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach. Adults, $8; ages 4-10, $6. $2 for optional taiko performance. 561-495-0233 or morikami.org Screen On The Green. Movie under the stars. 8 p.m. Second Friday of every month. Waterfront Commons, 101 N Flagler Drive, West Palm Beach. Free. wpb.org/ screen-on-the-green

11 Saturday MIAMI-DADE

Museum Free Second Saturday. Hands-on activities and guided tours. 1-4 p.m. Pérez Art Museum, 1103 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Free. 786-345-5643 JUNE 2016 |

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TAEKWONDO

HistoryMiami Family Fun Days. Educational, hands-on activities and kid-themed projects. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Second Saturday of every month. HistoryMiami, 101 W Flagler St., Miami. Free. 305-375-1492 or historymiami.org Oleta River Canoe Tour. Ages 7 and up. 10 a.m.12:30 p.m. Second Sunday and fourth Saturday of each month. Meet at East Greynolds Park, 16700 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami Beach. $28 per person. RSVP required two days before. 305-944-6111

BROWARD

Family Citizen Police Academy. Ages 13 and

First Class

Two Months

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Only $99 Includes Free Uniform

10550 Wiles Road, Coral Springs, FL

Call Today 954-243-8911 www.peaktaekwondo.com

up. 9 week course includes K-9 demonstrations, firearms safety and tour of the range, information on the Explorer program, gangs and organized crime, crime scene investigation and forensics, participation in a D.U.I scenario, viewing a robbery scenario, and more. Refreshments will be served. 6-8:15 p.m. Mondays. Plantation Police Department, 451 NW 70th Terrace, Plantation. RSVP. 954-916-5601 Take It & Make It Father’s Day Craft. Ages 3-11. Drop in and pick up a craft to do at home, while supplies last. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. North Regional/BC Library, 1100 Coconut Creek Blvd., Coconut Creek. Free. RSVP. 954-201-2600 Animal Tales. Ages 5 and up. Interactive animal show while teaching fun and interesting facts about each of the animals. 11 a.m. Young At Art Library, 751 SW 121st Ave., Davie. 954-357-8585 Weekend Guided Trail Rides. Ages 9 and up.

One-hour guided trail rides. Children must be 9 years of age or at least 52 inches tall to ride and must have an adult present to register for a ride. Closed-toe shoes are required. 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Tradewinds Park & Stables, 3600 W Sample Road, Coconut Creek. $35 plus tax/person per hour. 954-357-8720 View the Stars at Fox Observatory. View the night sky with assistance from members of the South Florida Amateur Astronomers Association at the park’s observatory. Sunset- midnight. Call for prices. Markham Park, 16001 W State Road 84, Sunrise. Gate entrance fee of $1.50. 954-357-8868 or sfaaa.com

PALM BEACH

Tot Time. Ages 1-4. Toys, costumes, bubbles, crafts, and snacks in an indoor playroom. Drop- ins welcome. 10 a.m.-Noon. $5 per child. Sugar Sand Park, 300 S Military Trail, Boca Raton. 561-347-3900 or SugarSandPark.org Summer Reading Kick-Off Party. Launch of the summer reading initiative, “Exercise Your Mind, Read!”

Party includes a live DJ, face painting, games, food, and even guest appearances by FAU athletes. 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Spanish River Library, 1501 NW Spanish River Blvd, Boca Raton. 561-393-7852 Bookworm Storytime. Ages 1-5 10:30 Saturdays.

Highland Beach Municipal Library, 3618 S Ocean Blvd., Highland Beach. Free. 561-278-5455

12 Sunday MIAMI-DADE

Sunday Sounds at Fairchild. Live music performed by students of University of Miami’s Frost School of Music in the Glasshouse Café. 1-2 p.m. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, 10901 Old Cutler Road, Coral Gables. Free with paid admission. Adults, $25; ages 6-17, $12. 305-667-1651 Art in the Park with Marie. Ages toddlers- 8. Create something new each month out on the lawn under the shade of the Banyan tree. Supplies included. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. last Sunday of every month. Miami Beach Botanical Garden, 2000 Convention Center Drive, Miami Beach.

Free admission. 305-673-7256

Animal Fashion Show and Open Horse Show. Dress up day for pets and equines. Classes for: Dogs, Cats, Farm Animals, Horses, Mini’s, Donkeys, Ponies and Others. 9 a.m. Bergeron Rodeo Grounds, 4271 Davie Road, Davie. $10 per class. info@projectstable.org or davie-fl.gov

PALM BEACH

Sunday Movies. Check website for movie title. $1 includes beverage & popcorn. 11 a.m. Sugar Sand Park

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Community Center, 300 S Military Trail, Boca Raton. 561347-3900 or SugarSandPark.org

13 Monday MIAMI-DADE

“I Bet I Can” Preschool Storytime. 10 a.m.

Opa-locka Branch Library, 780 Fisherman St., Suite 140, Opa-locka. Free. 305-688-1134

BROWARD

Read to Grandma! Ages 5 -12. Build reading skills this summer by practicing reading with Grandma.

Noon. North Lauderdale Saraniero Branch Library, 6901 Kimberly Blvd., North Lauderdale. Free. RSVP. 954-3576660 Pilates Exercise! Ages 6-12. 2 p.m. Carver Ranches Branch Library, 4735 SW 18 St., West Park.

Free. RSVP. 954-357-6245

PALM BEACH

Tales for Tadpoles. Ages birth-2. 10 a.m. Delray Beach Public Library, 100 West Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach. delraylibrary.org

14 Tuesday MIAMI-DADE

Bilingual Storytime. 11 a.m. Doral Branch Library, 10785 NW 58th St., Doral. Free. RSVP. 305-716-9598

BROWARD

Tuesday Night Beach Dances. Movie, dancing and more. 7-9 p.m. Main Beach Parking Lot, 149 SE 21st Ave., Deerfield Beach. Free. 954-480-4429 or deerfield-beach.com

PALM BEACH

Little Hands-Big Art. Ages 3-5. Students try many different forms of art. 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Tuesdays.

Schoolhouse Children’s Museum and Learning Center, 129 E Ocean Ave., Boynton Beach. Members,$3; nonmembers, $4 with $5 paid admission. 561-742-6780 or schoolhousemuseum.org

15 Wednesday MIAMI-DADE

Preschool Storytime. Storytime and crafts. 2-3 a.m.

Wednesdays. JFK Memorial Library, 190 W 49th St., Hialeah. 305-821-2700 ext. 227 or hialeahfl.gov

BROWARD

Tamarac Food Trucks. 5:30- 9:30 p.m. Wednesdays.

Tamarac Park, 7501 N University Drive, Tamarac. Free.

954-597-3620

PALM BEACH

Lighthouse Sunset Tour. Visitors get an inside look at the nuts & bolts of a working lighthouse watchroom.

Time varies by sunset. Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum, 500 Captain Armour’s Way, Jupiter. Members, $15; non-members, $20. RSVP 561-747-8380 X101 or jupiterlighthouse.org

16 Thursday MIAMI-DADE

Ready, Set, Read: Library Olympics. Variety of active challenges and book based activities. 11 a.m.

Miami Lakes Branch Library, 6699 Windmill Gate Road, Miami Lakes. Free. RSVP. 305-822-6520

BROWARD

Fly Right Radio-Controlled Model Aircraft Flight Lessons. Program that includes airfield rules, safety, terminology, primary flight, basic aerobatics, and more. Equipment is provided. Call for fees and to schedule an appointment. Markham Park, 16001 W State Road 84, Sunrise. Gate, entrance fee, $1.50. 954-816-4410 or the park at 954-357-8868

PALM BEACH

Art After Dark. The museum stays open until 9:00 p.m. Special exhibitions, live music, films, tours, cash bar, and food. Every Thursday evening. Norton Museum of Art, 1451 S Olive Ave., West Palm Beach. Adults, $12; ages 13-21, $5. 561-832-5196 JUNE 2016 |

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SM

2016 MCM EXPLORERS

BECOME AN MCM EXPLORER just in time for the Summer Games as we explore sports and cultures from around the world!

SUMMER CAMP

Ask about our toddler summer program!

For children Pre-K (4) - 5th Grade Before and After Care Available

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Spanish Immersion Plus Camp, Cooking Up Math & Science Camp, and Reading Rocks!

From June 13th-August 5th!

Visit us at CampSagemont.com for all details.

Camp Sagemont

Sports Camp

Art & Drama/Vocal Camps

LIT-Leadership Program

(PreK3-3rd grade) 8 weekly sessions. Enjoy a wide variety of fun-filled weekly activities including swimming, cooking, science, sports, shows and field trips.

(2nd - 8th grade) 8 weekly sessions. Advance your sports skills in multiple sports. Field trips twice per week.

(3rd-8th grade) Art: Two 2-week sessions. Drama/Vocal: One 3 week session. Great for campers with an artistic or a creative flair.

Offered from 6/13-7/8 & 7/18-8/5.

(9th-10th grade) Two 4-week sessions. 6/13-7/8 & 7/11-8/5.

Learn the skills necessary to become a future camp counselor.

S.T.E.M. Camps

Travel Adventure Camp & Teens Travel Camp

Academic Advantage Plus & ESL Advantage Plus

Upper School ESL Advantage Plus

(4th-5th grade & 6th-8th grade respectively) 8 weekly sessions Challenge yourself with adventurous field trips and team activities 2-3 days a week. Join the enjoyable camp lifestyle during non-travel days.

*Formerly known as summer school.

(6th-12th Grade) One 4-week session. 7/11 - 8/5. Individualized instruction plans will be created.

ESL can be combined with the Teens Travel Camp or LITLeadership Program for field trips.

(3rd-8th grade) Five 2-week sessions plus one week of Robotics. Science, Technology, Engineering & or Math concepts all offered in a fun learning environment. Also check out our Marine Science and Multi Media Camp.

(1st-5th grade) Two 4-week sessions. 6/13-7/8 & 7/11-8/5.

Students focus on reading, writing, math, or critical thinking and study skills.

Our camp is conveniently located in the heart of Weston and just minutes from I-75, I-595 and the Sawgrass Expressway.

1570 Sagemont Way • Weston, FL 33326 phone: 954.384.1894 • email: camp@sagemont.com

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JUNE 2016

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17 Friday MIAMI-DADE

Target Free Third Friday. The Miami Children’s

» fairs & festivals

Museum is free every third Friday of the month. Due to space - no strollers please. 3-9 p.m. Miami Children’s Museum, 980 MacArthur Causeway, Miami. 305-3735437 ext. 100 or ext. 145 Cultural Fridays. Enjoy music and discover works by local artists and artisans. 7-11 p.m. Domino Park, SW 15th Avenue and 8th Street, Miami. Free. 305-6435500

COLLINS PARK CULTURAL ARTS FESTIVAL June 4. Get ready for the 2017 World OutGames with a kick-off event to welcome athletes from around the world. Noon-7 p.m. Collins Park, 2200 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Free. cultureshockmiami.com

BROWARD

SOUTH FLORIDA PARENTING’S BABY & TODDLER FAIR PRESENTED

BY BROWARD HEALTH June 5. Featuring baby and toddler products and services for parents of toddlers, new parents and parents-to-be. Educational seminars, Diaper derbies, toddler play area, “Put Your Feet Up” Lounge, goodie bags, and more. The Pavilion, 301 Yamato Road, Boca Raton. $10 in advance, $15 at the door.

SunSentinel.com/SouthFloridaParenting.com

Friday Night Family Ceramics Class. $6 optional pizza dinner at 6 p.m. Call to reserve. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Community Center, 9000 SW 50th Place, Cooper City. $10 per family plus $10 material fee per child.

954-434-4300 #233 or coopercityfl.org Movies on the Lawn. Bring chairs and blankets. 8 p.m. third Friday of every month. Pompano Beach Great Lawn, Atlantic Boulevard and Pompano Beach Boulevard, Pompano Beach. 954-786-4111

PALM BEACH

Music on the Rocks with Food Truck Invasion. 5-9 p.m. Ocean Avenue Amphitheater, 129 E Ocean Ave., Boynton Beach. foodtruckinvasion.com

18 Saturday MIAMI-DADE

Fun Days at The Little Farm. Pony rides, petting farm, tour of farm and butterfly garden. 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Weekends. The Little Farm, 13401 SW 224 St., Goulds. $10. RSVP. 305-258-3186 Gold Coast Train Rides. 20-minute train rides on the “Edwin Link Children’s Railroad”, or Link train. 1 and 3 p.m. Weekends. Gold Coast Railroad Museum, 12450 SW 152nd St., Miami. $2.50. 305-253-0063

BROWARD

17TH ANNUAL PHILIPPINE SUMMER FESTIVAL June 11. Celebrate Philippine Independence Day. Cultural show, vendors and food. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. South Florida Fairgrounds, 9067 Southern Blvd. West Palm Beach. Ages 7 and up, $10. 561-315-2316 or paswpb.org AMERICAN BLACK FILM FESTIVAL June 15-19. Film screenings and an extensive schedule of events and networking opportunities. Miami Beach. abff.com

REPTIDAY June 18. One-day reptile show and sale. Live seminars and demonstrations, reptiles from around the world, pets for purchase and pet products. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Universal Palms Hotel, 4900 Powerline Road, Fort Lauderdale.

Adult, $12; ages 5-12, $5. reptiday.com REDLAND SUMMER FRUIT FESTIVAL June 19. Annual event showcases local agriculture and tropical fruits. Foods and rare fruit samplings available. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Fruit & Spice Park, 24801 SW 187th Ave., Homestead. Ages 12 and up, $8. 305-2475727 or fruitandspicepark.org MAYOR’S 6TH ANNUAL KIDS DAY EVENT June 24. Each child will receive a wristband from the Recreation and Cultural Arts Department (must pre-register). Businesses will open their doors 8 a.m.-8 p.m. to the participants and provide a service or gift for visiting. The mayor hosts a lunch for the children from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at Pembroke Pines Charter High School, 17189 Sheridan St., Pembroke Pines. Free. RSVP. 954-4356525. fl-pembrokepines.civicplus.com VIERNES CULTURALES June 24. Celebrate Viernes Cultural/Cultural Friday with music and works by local artists and artisans. 7 p.m. Domino Plaza, SW 8th Street and SW 15th Avenue, Miami. Free. cultureshockmiami.com

Family Citizen Police Academy. Ages 13 and up. 9 week course includes K-9 demonstrations, firearms safety and tour of the range, information on the Explorer program, gangs and organized crime, crime scene investigation and forensics, participation in a D.U.I scenario, viewing a robbery scenario, and more. Refreshments will be served. 6-8:15 p.m. Mondays. Plantation Police Department, 451 NW 70th Terrace, Plantation. RSVP. 954-916-5601 Free Junior Chef Cooking Class. 10 a.m. Saturdays. The Village at Gulfstream Park, Williams-Sonoma, Barker Animation Art Gallery, 501 South Federal Highway, Hallandale Beach. Free. 954-457-2280 or thevillageatgulfstreampark.com

PALM BEACH

Bookworm Storytime. Ages 1-5 10:30 Saturdays.

Highland Beach Municipal Library, 3618 S Ocean Blvd., Highland Beach. Free. 561-278-5455

19 Sunday MIAMI-DADE

Bay Cruise. The boat will depart from Deering Estate

CAMP DIRECTORY

and explore Biscayne Bay. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Deering Estate at Cutler, 16701 SW 72 Ave., Miami. $35 per person.

305-235-1668 ext. 233 or deeringestate.com Sunday Sounds at Fairchild. Live music performed by students of University of Miami’s Frost School of Music in the Glasshouse Café. 1-2 p.m. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, 10901 Old Cutler Road, Coral Gables. Free with paid admission. Adults, $25; ages 6-17, $12. 305-667-1651

BROWARD

Featured Creatures at Flamingo Gardens.

Presentations, exhibits, and activities throughout the Father’s Day weekend. Kids can make “creature” crafts or challenge Dad to eat a bug at the Edible Bug station 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Flamingo Gardens, 3750 S Flamingo Road, Davie. $9.95; ages 3-11, $6.45. 954-473-2955 or FlamingoGardens.org Aquarium: Behind The Scenes. Learn about the aquarium inhabitants and observe them feeding.2-2;30 JUNE 2016 |

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ENROLL NOW FOR 2016-2017 SCHOOL YEAR!

REGISTER FOR SUMMER CAMP! CLASSICAL EDUCATION CHRISTIAN VIRTUES ADVANCED CURRICULUM

p.m. Anne Kolb Nature Center, 751 Sheridan St., Hollywood. $2 plus tax/person exhibit hall fee. 954-357-5161 or or broward.org/parks Pony Rides. Ages 9 and under. 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Tradewinds Park & Stables, 3600 W Sample Road, Coconut Creek. Gate entrance fee, $1.50; $3 per ride.

954-357-8870 Weekend Farm Tours. Tours to see the numerous farm animals, including a cow, sheep, goats, pigs, and chickens. 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Tradewinds Park & Stables, 3600 W Sample Road, Coconut Creek. $3; gate entrance fee, $1.50. 954-357-8870

PALM BEACH

Family Fun: Father’s Day Fish Printing.

SMALL CLASS SIZE GREEK-LATIN-SPANISH BEAUTIFUL 10 ACRE CAMPUS! ORGANIC AND GREEN SCHOOL PRIVATE TUTORING FOR ALL LEVELS!

Call for a Tour

(954) 974-1121

www.paideiaclassical.org 2370 Hammock Blvd., Coconut Creek, FL 33063 PAIDEIA CLASSICAL ACADEMY Pre-K to 10th Grade

Learn to artistically capture local fish with the traditional Japanese fish printing technique, gyotaku. Noon-3 p.m.

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach. Adults, $15, ages 6-17, $9.

561-495-0233 or morikami.org Sunday Movies. Check website for movie title. $1 includes beverage & popcorn. 11 a.m. Sugar Sand Park Community Center, 300 S Military Trail, Boca Raton. 561347-3900 or SugarSandPark.org Sunday on the Waterfront. National and regional recording artists along Flagler Drive waterfront. 4:30 -7:30 p.m. Third Sunday of every month. Meyer Amphitheatre, 105 Evernia St., West Palm Beach. Free. 561- 822-1515 or wpb.org/sunday-on-the-waterfront

20 Monday MIAMI-DADE

On Your Mark, Get Set, Read. Stories, songs, and activities for Summer Reading. 10:15 a.m. International Mall Branch Library, 10315 NW 12th St., Doral. Free.

RSVP. 305-594-2514

BROWARD

Food Trucks At Artspark. Over 20 different food trucks. 5:30-10 p.m. Mondays. ArtsPark at Young Circle,

SUMME MEERR BBASKET MER ASKETBALL

CAMP 2016 June 13th - July 29th

CAMP DIRECTORY

DAILY SKILLS CONTEST & 3 ON 3 TOURNAMENTS WEEKLY FIELD TRIPS Camp Instruction will Include: Ball Handling Passing Stationary Shooting Defense Offense Fundamentals

954-809-5131 | www.sflbasketball.com

Championship Academy Gymnasium 3367 N. University Drive, Davie FL 33024

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» exhibits for families BELLISSIMA: ITALY AND HIGH FASHION EXHIBITION Through June 19. The exhibition explores the post-World War II creativity in Italy that gave rise to Italian high fashion. Adults, $12; students 13-17, $5. NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale, 1 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale. 954-525-5500, nsuartmuseum.org or nsuartmuseum.org SHADOWS OF THE FLOATING WORLD: PAPER CUTS BY HIROMI MONEYHUN June 10-Sept. 18. Combines traditional Japanese art forms and the bold intensity of contemporary graphic illustrations. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach. Adults, $15; ages 6-17, $9. 561-495-0233 or morikami.org TRANSCENDING FORMS: JAPANESE BAMBOO BASKETS June 10-Sept. 18. Exhibition traces the Japanese bamboo basket from its agricultural beginnings to the revolutionary expressions of avant-garde artists. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach. Adults, $15; ages 6-17, $9.

561-495-0233 or morikami.org CHILDREN OF HANGZHOU: CONNECTING WITH CHINA June 18-Sept. 5. Exhibition reveals the modern-day life of China’s young people and

demystifies China’s mix of ancient tradition and modern lifestyle. Showcases contemporary Chinese artists, Ji Zhou, Li Hongbo and Yi Zhou and artwork from students at the Roupu Art Center in Wuhan, China. Young At Art Museum, 751 SW 121st Ave., Davie. $12-$14. 954424-0085 or youngatartmuseum.org WILDLIFE RESCUE Through Sept. 5. Exhibit tells compelling stories of animal rescue, the dedicated people taking action and the science supporting their efforts. Museum of Discovery and Science, 401 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale. Adults $15; ages 2-12, $13. 954-463-IMAX (4629) or mods.org GROSSOLOGY: THE (IMPOLITE) SCIENCE OF THE HUMAN BODY Through Oct. 11. Animatronics and imaginative exhibits show the good, the bad and the downright ugly about runny noses, body odor and more. Florida Science Center and Aquarium, 4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach. Adults, $15; ages 3-12, $11. 561832-1988 or sfsciencecenter.org

parents the importance of leading a healthy and active lifestyle with exercise stations, food facts, sports interactives and more.

Miami Children’s Museum, 980 MacArthur Causeway, Miami. 305-373-5437 or miamichildrensmuseum.org CLYDE BUTCHER PHOTOGRAPHY Butcher is a nationally recognized conservationist who uses his photography to help preserve natural environments throughout the nation. Museum of Discovery and Science, 401 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale. 954463-IMAX (4629) or mods.org

Horseback Riding Lessons • Beginner-Advanced Riding Lessons • Birthday Parties • Pony Club • Summer Camps *Call for Pricing*

ONGOING BAPTIST CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL HEALTH & WELLNESS CENTER Gallery will help teach young visitors and their

4000 NW 43rd Street Coconut Creek , FL 33073

954-326-2528

www.acts2acres.com t 2

Looking for an Amazing Summer Camp with an Awesome Summer Experience?

Camp Cardinal Ca Summer mmer of Fun & Discover mmer Discoveries ve ie

BROWARD CAMP DIRECTORY

egister Today! o ay Register Summer, Winter & Spring Sessions Availible!

Call: (954) 381-2335 www.campcardinal.com TY Park 3300 N Park Rd Hollywood, FL 33021 JUNE 2016 |

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1 Young Circle, Hollywood. Free admission. 954-9213500

GREAT FUND-RAISING IDEA FOR YOUR SCHOOL OR ORGANIZATION.

PALM BEACH

Lighthouse Moonrise Tour. Evening view of a full moon from the top of the tower. Tours are weather permitting, call for tour time. 7:30 p.m. Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum, 500 Captain Armour’s Way, Jupiter.

Members, $15; non-members, $20. RSVP 561-747-8380 X101 or jupiterlighthouse.org

21 Tuesday

954-596-5633

Preschool Storytime. Storytime and crafts. 2-3 a.m.

Wednesdays. JFK Memorial Library, 190 W 49th St., Hialeah. 305-821-2700 ext. 227 or hialeahfl.gov

BROWARD

Wags N Tales. Ages 5-11. Children practice their reading skills with “China” from the Humane Society. 4 p.m. Young At Art Library, 751 SW 121st Ave., Davie.

954-357-8585

MIAMI-DADE

PALM BEACH

Toddler Storytime. 10:15 a.m. Tamiami Branch

Beach Treasures. Learn about shells and sea life; car-

Library, 13250-52 SW 8th St., Miami. Free. RSVP. 305223-4758 Baby Storytime. 10:30 a.m. Kendale Lakes Branch Library, 15205 SW 88th St., Miami. Free. RSVP. 305388-0326

Call Angela at

22 Wednesday MIAMI-DADE

avan to Red Reef Beach Park, for beachcombing with the experts. 9-10:30 a.m. Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N Ocean Blvd Boca Raton. Member, $5; non-member, $8.

561-544-8605 or gumbolimbo.org

23 Thursday

BROWARD

for more information.

Mommy and Me Baby Cakes Support Group. Topics: Poison control and prevention, Mother Earth Cloth Diapers, Baby blues and Impact on breastfeeding. Light lunch served. Noon-1:30 p.m. Memorial Regional Hospital, The Family Birthplace, 3501 Johnson St., Hollywood. RSVP. 954-265-4484 or family@mhs.net

PALM BEACH

Sensational Story ‘n More. Ages 2-4. 10:30-11:15 a.m. Tuesdays. Schoolhouse Children’s Museum and Learning Center, 129 E Ocean Ave., Boynton Beach. $5.

561-742-6780 or schoolhousemuseum.org Little Hands-Big Art. Ages 3-5. Students try many different forms of art. 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Tuesdays.

Schoolhouse Children’s Museum and Learning Center, 129 E Ocean Ave., Boynton Beach. Members,$3; nonmembers, $4 with $5 paid admission. 561-742-6780 or schoolhousemuseum.org

2016-2017

MIAMI-DADE

Summer Fun Preschool Storytime. 11 a.m.

Coral Reef Branch Library, 9211 SW 152nd St., Miami.

Free. RSVP. 305-233-8324

BROWARD

Airboat Tours. Guided airboat tours through the Everglades. Call for fees. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Everglades Holiday Park, 21940 Griffin Road, Fort Lauderdale. 954-3578101 or evergladesholidaypark.com

PALM BEACH

Afterschool Funzone Club. Ages 5-12. Dodge ball, soccer, swimming, painting, karate, dancing, social activities. Afterschool-5:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Veterans Park, 802 NE First St., Delray Beach. $10 per week. 561-243-7350

MIAMI-DADE CAMP DIRECTORY

AMP! C S IRL AN ALL G

Summer Camps Around the World • Sports • Movie Makers Academic SuperCamp • STEM • Debate For more information visit www.carrollton.org.

3747 Main Highway, Coconut Grove • 305-446-5673, ext. 2340 72

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MIAMI-DADE CAMP DIRECTORY

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• Laser Tag Arena • Rock Climbing • Video Arcade • Birthday Parties • Bumper Cars • Glow in the Dark Mini Golf • Canon Blaster • Basketball Court • Inflatable City • BEST PAINTBALL EXPERIENCE Play on all terrains shooting from a window on our village field or wooded battlefield… get ready for action!

www.actiontownfl.com

7925 7 925 9 25 W. 2n 2nd Court • Hialeah, FL 33014 • 305-647-3343 5-647-334 57-334 43 JUNE 2016 |

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The ideal camp for all fashionistas!

MIAMI-DADE CAMP DIRECTORY

FLORIDA RESIDENTS SAVE UP TO 50%

Create an unforgettable memory in our beautiful harbor. Get into the water with a friendly dolphin and have one incredible moment, when you make a friend for life. For reservations, call 305-365-2501 or book online today!

Not ready to jump into the water, visit the park and save on daily admission, just $29.99!

miamisea L O CAT E D O T MINU

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24 Friday MIAMI-DADE

Miami Street Food Court Food Truck InvaCultural Fridays. Enjoy music and discover works by local artists and artisans. 7-11 p.m. Domino Park, SW 15th Avenue and 8th Street, Miami. Free. 305-6435500

BROWARD

Chinese Paper Fans. Design Chinese paper fans. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Young At Art Museum, 751 SW 121st Ave., Davie. $14; Broward County residents, $12. 954-4240085 or youngatartmuseum.org

PALM BEACH

Royal Palm Beach Commons Park Food Truck Invasion. 5-9:30 p.m. Royal Palm Beach Commons Park, 11600 Poinciana Blvd., Royal Palm Beach. foodtruckinvasion.com Movie Night and Food Truck Invasion. Food trucks and movies. Movie starts at 8 p.m. Bring folding chairs or blankets to picnic at the park grass surroundings.

5-9 p.m. Last Friday of every month. Royal Palm Beach Commons, Royal Palm Beach. Free. 561-790-5149. foodtruckinvasion.com

· Bestt jumps, slides and obstacle courses · Amazing full-service birthday parties · Delicious concessions · Free WiFi · Fun fundraisers and group events · Dedicated Mini Monkey Zone for toddlers

Monkey Joe’s Sunrise 3445 North Hiatus Road Sunrise, FL 33351 954-748-4123 Monkey Joe’s Pembroke Pines 9980 Pines Boulevard Pembroke Pines,FL 33024 P 954-442-8777

25 Saturday

Monkey Joe’s Lake Worth M 6250 Lantana Road, Bay 18 62 Lake Worth, FL 33463 561-968-0009

MIAMI-DADE

The Great American Campout. The National Wildlife Federation hopes 125,000 people will pledge to spend the night under the stars. Visit website for more information, ideas, and tips. nwf.org/Great-AmericanCampout.aspx Fun Days at The Little Farm. Pony rides, petting farm, tour of farm and butterfly garden. 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Weekends. The Little Farm, 13401 SW 224 St., Goulds. $10. RSVP. 305-258-3186 Gold Coast Train Rides. 20-minute train rides on the “Edwin Link Children’s Railroad”, or Link train. 1 and

Monkey Joe’s Boca Raton M 11411 West Palmetto Park Rd 114 Boca Raton,FL 33428 561-488-2272 Monkey Joe’s Coral Springs M 10301-B Royal Palm Blvd 1 Coral Springs, FL 33065 C 954-796-6500

SM

miami children’s museum’s

Please note this is not an official Rio 2016 event.

980 macarthur causeway, miami, fl 33132 · 305.373.KIDS(5437) · miamichildrensmuseum.org JUNE 2016 |

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ATTRACTIONS DIRECTORY

EXHIBIT OPENING JUNE 4 Miami Children’s Museum receives both private and public funding. MCM is sponsored in part by the City of Miami; the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners; and the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts.

5/18/16 4:49 PM

PRESENTED BY

June 5, 2016 • 10 AM to 2 PM The Pavilion Grille at Stonegate Bank 301 Yamato Road • Boca Raton

Featuring products, service, information, giveaways, goodie bags, complimentary refreshments, lunch available for purchase, free chair massages, free parking, toddler activities, and Diaper Derby and Daddy’s Diaper Duty contests for new parents and parents-to-be Plus, free seminars on Breastfeeding, Infant CPR, Drowning Prevention, Estate Planning & more

ONLINE ONLY Advance General Admission Tickets $10 & Advance VIP Tickets $15 @ SunSentinel.com/SouthFloridaParenting General Admission Tickets $15 at the door For Exhibitor or Sponsor information contact Angela at 954.596.5633

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BROWARD

The Great American Campout. The National Wildlife Federation hopes 125,000 people will pledge to spend the night under the stars. Visit website for more information, ideas, and tips. nwf.org/Great-AmericanCampout.aspx Family Citizen Police Academy. Ages 13 and up. 9 week course includes K-9 demonstrations, firearms safety and tour of the range, information on the Explorer program, gangs and organized crime, crime scene investigation and forensics, participation in a D.U.I scenario, viewing a robbery scenario, and more. Refreshments will be served. 6-8:15 p.m. Mondays. Plantation Police Department, 451 NW 70th Terrace, Plantation. RSVP. 954-916-5601 Middle School Bookclub. Entering Grades 6-8.

Discussion of the selected book and active discussions, art and craft activities related to the themes and topics of the book. Light refreshments will be served. 2 p.m. Young At Art Library, 751 SW 121st Ave., Davie. 954-357-8585 Fitness Saturdays. Ages 6 and up. Family Yoga with Nipa. 11 a.m. Young At Art Library, 751 SW 121st Ave., Davie. 954-357-8585 Chinese Paper Fans. Design Chinese paper fans. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Young At Art Museum, 751 SW 121st Ave., Davie. $14; Broward County residents, $12. 954-4240085 or youngatartmuseum.org View the Stars at Fox Observatory. View the night sky with assistance from members of the South Florida Amateur Astronomers Association at the park’s observatory. Sunset- midnight. Call for prices. Markham Park, 16001 W State Road 84, Sunrise. Gate entrance fee of $1.50. 954-357-8868 or sfaaa.com Guided Nature Walk. 3:30-4:30 p.m. Secret Woods Nature Center, 2701 W State Road 84, Dania Beach.

Free. 954-357-8884 or broward.org/parks Tradewinds Park Farm. Farm animals including a cow, sheep, goats, pigs, and chickens. 11:30 and 1:30.

LEARN TO SWIM

IN 10 LESSONS

MONTHLY PAYMENT PROGRAM $95.00 from 4 months to adults, anyone can do it...

MOMMY & ME 4-24 Months Self Rescue Program CERTIFIED INSTRUCTORS GO TO YOUR HOME OR CONDO • PRIVATE CLASSES • POOL BIRTHDAY PARTIES

2 LOCATIONS

(Aventura - North Miami) 20350 Northeast 26th Avenue, Miami, FL 33180 2225 NE 121 Street, North Miami, FL 33181 - NEW

26 Years Experience Water Safety Instructors

Follow us on

305-961-1800

www.bubbles-swimschool.com

GREAT FUND-RAISING IDEA FOR YOUR SCHOOL OR ORGANIZATION.

954-596-5633 for more information.

Ask for David or Jack

WE SHOW UP!

We have the LARGEST water slides in Florida.

Now Serving Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties

TERRY’S ZUMBA FOR KIDS For Summer Camps, After School Programs and Kids’ Parties.

Temporary Airbrush Glitter Tattoos and Face Painting

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terryaerobics@hotmail.com Call now: 305-519-0195 Fully insured and licensed

Wipeout Football Challenge ANY $ ANY 60 OFF SUNDAY 30 OFF SATURDAY

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Excluding Small Bounce Houses

561-245-7100 • 954-420-2942 www.SouthFloridaBounce.com JUNE 2016 |

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PARTY PLANNER DIRECTORY

Call Angela at

CLASSES & AFTER-SCHOOL DIRECTORY

3 p.m. Weekends. Gold Coast Railroad Museum, 12450 SW 152nd St., Miami. $2.50. 305-253-0063

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HAVE A SUPERHERO COME TO YOUR CHILD’S NEXT BIRTHDAY PARTY FEATURING: BATMAN & ROBIN • X-MEN • HULK • CAPTAIN AMERICA • IRON MAN • THOR • BLACK NINJA STAR WARS • NINJA TURTLE • RED RANGER TRANSFORMER & SPIDER MAN!!!

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Miami-Dade/ Broward/WPB Call or Text now: 305-519-0195 or 786-973-PRTY (7789) terrysfacepainting.com terryfacepaints@comcast.net terryaerobics@hotmail.com

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Spa Day Makeup Massage

Facials Manicure Pedicure

Hair Styling Fashion Show

Karaoke Time Disco Time

Video Games Dress-Up …and more!

SPA SERVICES FOR GIRLS for individual or groups by appointment only includes: manicure, pedicure, massage, facial, hairstyle and make up

CHECK OUT OUR MONTHLY SPA PARTY For the public, in instrigram and Facebook

CALL FOR DETAILS 8763 87 63 SW SW 13 132 2 St., St Miami, St Mia iami mi, i FL 33176 331 3176 76 6

Call 305.235.5519

Make your next birthday party a celebration to remember!

Party with Lolita the Killer Whale, TV superstar Flipper, Salty the Sea Lion and all your marine animal friends. Party package includes invitations, lunch, personalized cake, decorations, costume characters, T-shirts, souvenir photo, admission to all shows and exhibits and much more. It’s the no-hassle way to give your birthday child the party of a lifetime!

Ask about our Slumber Parties!

305·365·2507

www.miamiseaquarium.com Located on Rickenbacker Causeway just minutes from Downtown Miami

Make your party extra special – add a Dolphin Encounter experience!

littledivaspartyplace.com

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JUNE 2016

5/18/16 4:48 PM

Weekends. Third weekend of the month extra sessions.

10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. every 45 min. $3 per person. 3600 W Sample Road, Coconut Creek. 954-357-8720 Aquarium: Behind The Scenes. Learn about the aquarium inhabitants and observe them feeding.2-2;30 p.m. Anne Kolb Nature Center, 751 Sheridan St., Hollywood. $2 plus tax/person exhibit hall fee. 954-357-5161 or or broward.org/parks Pony Rides. Ages 9 and under. 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Tradewinds Park & Stables, 3600 W Sample Road, Coconut Creek. Gate entrance fee, $1.50; $3 per ride.

954-357-8870 Weekend Farm Tours. Tours to see the numerous farm animals, including a cow, sheep, goats, pigs, and chickens. 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Tradewinds Park & Stables, 3600 W Sample Road, Coconut Creek. $3; gate entrance fee, $1.50. 954-357-8870 Weekend Guided Trail Rides. Ages 9 and up.

One-hour guided trail rides. Children must be 9 years of age or at least 52 inches tall to ride and must have an adult present to register for a ride. Closed-toe shoes are required. 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Tradewinds Park & Stables, 3600 W Sample Road, Coconut Creek. $35 plus tax/person per hour. 954-357-8720

PALM BEACH

The Great American Campout. The National Wildlife Federation hopes 125,000 people will pledge to spend the night under the stars. Visit website for more information, ideas, and tips. nwf.org/Great-AmericanCampout.aspx Bookworm Storytime. Ages 1-5 10:30 Saturdays.

Highland Beach Municipal Library, 3618 S Ocean Blvd., Highland Beach. Free. 561-278-5455 Saturday Craftastic Family Movie. Family movie with a self-led, kid-friendly craft. Fourth Saturday of each month. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Mandel Public Library, 411 Clematis St., West Palm Beach. Free. 561-868- 7703

Community Center, 300 S Military Trail, Boca Raton. 561347-3900 or SugarSandPark.org Jupiter Farmers Market. Fresh local produce and artisanal foods. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sundays. Harbourside Place, 200 U.S. 1 Jupiter. Free admission. 561-9359533 or harboursideplace.com Acreage Green Market. Eggs, chicken, pork, produce, animal feed, soaps, and crafts. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sundays. Acreage Community Park, 6701 140th Ave., N., Loxahatchee. 561-723-3898 or

27 Monday MIAMI-DADE

Cuentos y Dibujos. Spanish storytime with crafts, music and riddles for school-age children. 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Mondays. JFK Memorial Library, 190 W 49th St., Hialeah.

305-821-2700 ext. 227 or hialeahfl.gov Mini Monday Mornings. Ages 0-3. Painting, sand play, story times, and a puppet show. 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Miami Children’s Museum, 980 MacArthur Causeway, Miami. $18; Florida residents, $14. 305-373-5437 or miamichildrensmuseum.org Civic Center Station Farmers Market. Locally grown organic and conventional vegetables, fruit and artisanal and prepared foods. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays.

1601 N.W. 12th Ave., Miami. 305-531-0038 or themarketcompany.org

BROWARD

Food Trucks At Artspark. Over 20 different food trucks. 5:30-10 p.m. Mondays. ArtsPark at Young Circle, 1 Young Circle, Hollywood. Free admission. 954-9213500

Mondays Young At Art Play Dates: Art Amazing. Ages 0-5. Free with paid admission. $12 for Broward County residents, seniors and children over age 1. 11:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Young At Art Museum, 751 SW 121st Ave., Davie. 954-424-0085

26 Sunday MIAMI-DADE

IDEA@thebass Family Day. Art projects, art explor-

BROWARD

Guided Nature Walk. 9:30-10:30 a.m.; 3:30-4:30 p.m. Secret Woods Nature Center, 2701 W State Road 84, Dania. RSVP. 954-357-8884 Guided Nature Walk. 1-2 p.m. Fern Forest Nature Center, 201 Lyons Road South, Coconut Creek. RSVP. 954-3575198 Jamming In The Park. Bring your favorite instrument and join in an acoustic music jam. 1-4 p.m. Fourth Sunday of the month. Secret Woods Nature Center, 2701 W State Road 84, Dania Beach. Free. 954-357-8884 Aquarium: Behind The Scenes. Learn about the aquarium inhabitants and observe them feeding.2-2;30 p.m. Anne Kolb Nature Center, 751 Sheridan St., Hollywood. $2 plus tax/person exhibit hall fee. 954-357-5161 or or broward.org/parks Pony Rides. Ages 9 and under. 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Tradewinds Park & Stables, 3600 W Sample Road, Coconut Creek. Gate entrance fee, $1.50; $3 per ride.

954-357-8870

PALM BEACH

Sunday Movies. Check website for movie title. $1

Are they bothered by

Allergies, Headaches, Watery or Itchy Eyes, Sneezing???

Chances are there is hidden, Black Mold in your Home

PICKY EATERS SUMMER SESSION NOW OPEN

YOUR CHILD CAN FINALLY EAT FRUITS, VEGETABLES, AND VARIED FOODS WITH EASE!

TAILORED TO ASSIST HIGHLY PICKY EATERS EFFECTIVE 305-915-1123

14411 S. DIXIE HWY. STE. 215 • KINGS BAY SHOPPING CENTER

Test your home for dangerous mold!

Call Now: 561-570-6311

includes beverage & popcorn. 11 a.m. Sugar Sand Park JUNE 2016 |

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PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY

ers, gallery games, and prizes. 2-4 p.m. Last Sunday of the month. Miami Beach Regional Library, 227 22nd St., Miami Beach. $8; Students, $6; Ages 0-6, free.

305-673-7530, ideaprograms@bassmuseum.org or bassmuseum.org Sunday Sounds at Fairchild. Live music performed by students of University of Miami’s Frost School of Music in the Glasshouse Café. 1-2 p.m. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, 10901 Old Cutler Road, Coral Gables. Free with paid admission. Adults, $25; ages 6-17, $12. 305-667-1651 Art in the Park with Marie. Ages toddlers- 8. Create something new each month out on the lawn under the shade of the Banyan tree. Supplies included. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. last Sunday of every month. Miami Beach Botanical Garden, 2000 Convention Center Drive, Miami Beach.

Free admission. 305-673-7256

DO YOU KNOW WHAT’S ON YOUR CHILD’S LUNGS??

5/18/16 4:47 PM

PARTY PLANNER DIRECTORY

Movie & Play Nigths

This r me Sum oy ay Enj ff D op O . r D Our rogram P

SCHOOL DIRECTORY

All rights reserved to Cool Corner Family Bistro. Copyrigt 2016 ©

WE CARE ABOUT KIDS, Central Charter School provides an enriched innovative and educational program focusing on reading, writing, mathematics, and language arts, and a positive, safe environment for all students in the Broward County School District.

WHAT WE OFFER

➤ FREE TRANSPORTATION ➤ NEW STEEL DRUM BAND PROGRAM ➤ BEFORE/AFTERCARE PROGRAM ➤ RIGOROUS CURRICULUM (STEM BASED) ➤ HIGHLY QUALIFIED TEACHERS ➤ ATHLETICS PROGRAM

CALL: 954-735-6295 4515 N. St. Rd. 7, Lauderdale Lakes, Fl 33319 | www.centralcharterschool.org 80

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PALM BEACH

Sandoway House Nature Center Daily Shark Feedings. Learn facts about the oceans top predators, while watching them eat. 10:30 a.m., Tuesday-Saturday and 1:30 p.m., Sunday. Ages 3 and up, $5. 142 S. Ocean Blvd., Delray Beach. 561-274-7263 or sandowayhouse.org Outdoor Marine Aquarium Feedings. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. 10:30, 12:30 Monday-Saturday. 1:30 Sunday. Daily. Gumbo Limbo, 1801 N Ocean Blvd Boca Raton. Free . 561-5448615 or gumbolimbo.org

28 Tuesday MIAMI-DADE

Family Night Storytime and Craft. Bilingual story time combined with craft activities 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays. JFK Memorial Library, 190 W 49th St., Hialeah.

305-821-2700 ext. 227 or hialeahfl.gov Preschool Storytime. 10 a.m. Lemon City Branch Library, 430 NE 61st St., Miami. Free. RSVP. 305-7570662 Toddler Storytime. 10:15 a.m. Tamiami Branch Library, 13250-52 SW 8th St., Miami. Free. RSVP. 305223-4758

BROWARD

Summer Time Moonlight Sea Turtle Walks.

Ages 9 and up. Evening of sea turtle exploration and identification while uncovering the natural history and myths of turtles. Nature permitting, participants will have a chance to watch a 300 pound Loggerhead sea turtle venture out of the ocean to lay her eggs. 9 p.m.-1 a.m.

Museum of Discovery and Science and AutoNation IMAX 3D Theater, 401 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale. Members $18; non-members, $20. 954-463-IMAX (4629) or mods.org STEAM Tuesdays. Entering Grades 3-5. On Your Mark, Get Set & Plant a Pizza herb starter Garden using recycled materials. 4 p.m. Young At Art Library, 751 SW 121st Ave., Davie. 954-357-8585 Family Nights With Food Trucks. 5:30-9:30 p.m. Every Tuesday. Plantation Heritage Park, 1100 S Fig Tree Lane, Plantation. Free. 954-357-5135 Tuesday Night Beach Dances. Movie, dancing and more. 7-9 p.m. Main Beach Parking Lot, 149 SE 21st Ave., Deerfield Beach. Free. 954-480-4429 or deerfield-beach.com

Average Class Size is 22 students!

• 1:1 Digital learning environment with take home iPads & Apple computers • Excellent standardized test scores well above state and national averages • Strong values in a Christian environment • Our students go on to the area’s most prominent high schools • Full-time & Part-time PreK and VPK programs available • State of the art Science Lab • Competitive Boys and Girls Sports • Students take PE, Art & Music through 8th Grade • Spanish Program including native speakers • Before & After School Care & Clubs (Robotics, Ballet, Gymnastics, Band)

Conveniently Located with Easy Access to I-95 & 595, Downtown, and Ft. Lauderdale’s Port & Airport

2601 S. W. 9th Ave. Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33315

954-524-1990 www.stjeromeschool.com

PALM BEACH

Sensational Story ‘n More. Ages 2-4. 10:30-11:15

29 Wednesday MIAMI-DADE

Lil’ Explorers - Super Sensory Messy Play.

Ages 2-5. Little ones explore while developing important readiness skills. 3-3:45 p.m. Wednesdays. Schoolhouse Children’s Museum and Learning Center, 129 E Ocean Ave., Boynton Beach. Members, $3; non-members, $4 per

500 off

$

Tuition

for if you sign up

by June 30th

Experiential Learning for Creative Minds A small school for twice-exceptional, gifted students in grades 6-12.

Registration for Fall 2016 now open.

Contact us to schedule your private tour.

Conservatory Prep Schools 5850 S. Pine Island Road, Davie, FL 33328

(954) 680-5808 • www.conservatoryprep.org JUNE 2016 |

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SCHOOL DIRECTORY

a.m. Tuesdays. Schoolhouse Children’s Museum and Learning Center, 129 E Ocean Ave., Boynton Beach. $5.

561-742-6780 or schoolhousemuseum.org Little Hands-Big Art. Ages 3-5. Students try many different forms of art. 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Tuesdays.

Schoolhouse Children’s Museum and Learning Center, 129 E Ocean Ave., Boynton Beach. Members,$3; nonmembers, $4 with $5 paid admission. 561-742-6780 or schoolhousemuseum.org Afterschool Funzone Club. Ages 5-12. Dodge ball, soccer, swimming, painting, karate, dancing, social activities. Afterschool-5:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Veterans Park, 802 NE First St., Delray Beach. $10 per week. 561-243-7350 Small Fry Programs. Ages 3 and up. Story, songs, and crafts. 4 p.m. Tuesdays. Highland Beach Municipal Library, 3618 S Ocean Blvd., Highland Beach. Free. 561278-5455 Baby Bookworm Storytime. Ages 1-2. 11 a.m.

Tuesdays Highland Beach Municipal Library, 3618 S Ocean Blvd., Highland Beach. Free. 561-278-5455 Turtle Tales. Ages birth-3. 10 a.m. Delray Beach Public Library, 100 West Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach. delraylibrary.org

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EDUCATIONAL SCHOOL For Special Needs Children K-12

We Accept Students Who Qualify for PLSA Accepted

SPECIAL NEEDS SECTION

BRIGHT STEPS FORWARD Provides a unique therapeutic social environment. Students attending Bright Steps Forward, Inc. come from educational or home environments where they have been unsuccessful. Many of these students have been diagnosed with Aspergers, PDD, and other Autistic Spectrum Disorders.

class plus $5 paid admission. 561-742-6780 or schoolhousemuseum.org Sensational Story ‘n More. Ages 2-4. 2-2:45 p.m. Wednesdays. Schoolhouse Children’s Museum and Learning Center, 129 E Ocean Ave., Boynton Beach. $5.

561-742-6780 Movie Under the Stars. See website for movie title.

8 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays. Miami Beach SoundScape ExoStage, 500 17th St., Miami Beach. 305-6737577 or mbculture.com Preschool Storytime. Storytime and crafts. 2-3 a.m.

Wednesdays. JFK Memorial Library, 190 W 49th St., Hialeah. 305-821-2700 ext. 227 or hialeahfl.gov

BROWARD

Summer Time Moonlight Sea Turtle Walks.

Ages 9 and up. Evening of sea turtle exploration and identification while uncovering the natural history and myths of turtles. Nature permitting, participants will have a chance to watch a 300 pound Loggerhead sea turtle venture out of the ocean to lay her eggs. 9 p.m.-1 a.m.

Museum of Discovery and Science and AutoNation IMAX 3D Theater, 401 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale. Members $18; non-members, $20. 954-463-IMAX (4629) or mods.org Mommy & Me Science & Art. Explore and experiment mixing art and science. 10:15-11a.m. Young At Art Museum, 751 SW 121st Ave., Davie. $5. 954-424-0085 or youngatartmuseum.org Tamarac Food Trucks. 5:30- 9:30 p.m. Wednesdays.

Tamarac Park, 7501 N University Drive, Tamarac. Free.

954-597-3620

PALM BEACH

Tales for Tadpoles. Ages birth-2. 10 a.m. Delray

WE OFFER PT/OT/SLP & ABA

Beach Public Library, 100 West Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach. delraylibrary.org

Lil’ Explorers - Super Sensory Messy Play.

Ages 2-5. Little ones explore while developing important readiness skills. 3-3:45 p.m. Wednesdays. Schoolhouse Children’s Museum and Learning Center, 129 E Ocean Ave., Boynton Beach. Members, $3; non-members, $4 per class plus $5 paid admission. 561-742-6780 or schoolhousemuseum.org

30 Thursday

These students are not able to come within a mainstream school program due to the expectations being overwhelmed. Bright Steps Forward, Inc. is a specialized life skill program catering to students whose needs are not being met in traditional school settings. BSF serves low to average functioning children, adolescents and teenagers diagnosed with Autism, Aspergers, PDD, NVLD and other Autistic Spectrum Disorders.

MIAMI-DADE

Our staff is dedicated to making sure that every child is given an equal opportunity to get the education all children deserve and thus provide them with the greatest chance of success.

Summer Time Moonlight Sea Turtle Walks.

• Physical Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Speech Language Therapy • Behavioral Therapy (ABA)

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McFarlane Road, Miami. Free. RSVP. 305-442-8695

Preschool Storytime. 10:30 a.m. Culmer/Overtown Branch Library, 350 NW 13th St., Miami. Free. RSVP. 305-579-5322

BROWARD Ages 9 and up. Evening of sea turtle exploration and identification while uncovering the natural history and myths of turtles. Nature permitting, participants will have a chance to watch a 300 pound Loggerhead sea turtle venture out of the ocean to lay her eggs. 9 p.m.-1 a.m.

Museum of Discovery and Science and AutoNation IMAX 3D Theater, 401 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale. Members $18; non-members, $20. 954-463-IMAX (4629) or mods.org

PALM BEACH

Wellington Food Truck Invasion. 5-9:30 p.m.

Open Saturdays 2233 N. Commerce Parkway #1 Weston, FL 33326 10261 Pines Boulevard Pembroke Pines, FL 33026

Baby Storytime: Celebrate Independence Day. 10:30 a.m. Coconut Grove Branch Library, 2875

1750 N. University Drive #105 Coral Springs, FL 33071 218 Almeria Avenue Coral Gables, FL 33134

www.therapies4kids.com

Wellington Amphitheater, 12300 Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington. foodtruckinvasion.com Family Fun Holiday Activity: Tanabata. Visitors can write their own special wishes and place them on the tanabata bamboo in the museum lobby. Noon-3 p.m.

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach. Adults, $15, ages 6-17, $9.

561-495-0233 or morikami.org Clematis by Night. Drink specials, food vendors, and music. 6-9 p.m. Thursdays. West Palm Beach Waterfront, 101 S Flagler Drive, West Palm Beach. wpb.org/events

Events are subject to change CALL AHEAD TO CONFIRM

JUNE 2016

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5/11/16 10:21 AM

Because earaches are never convenient.

Walk-in Urgent Care Available 7 Days a Week.

nicklauschildrens.org/UrgentCare

For Health. For Life.

Download our It’s free!

Miami-Dade

Broward

Doral | Miami Lakes | Midtown | Palmetto Bay | West Bird Plaza | West Kendall

Miramar

Palm Beach | Weston

Palm Beach Gardens = Urgent Care Location

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