South Florida Parenting January 2017

FREE

Serving Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach

JANUARY 2017

Kid-Friendly fitness What to

expect

at the ER

Helping children deal with grief

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A PUBLICATION OF

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Dr. Gary Birken, Surgeon-in-Chief

Marina, Lymphoma

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DEPARTMENTS Editor’s Note JENNIFER JHON

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South Florida News New attractions coming to Florida theme parks

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Family Health & Safety Child seat and stroller safety

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Stuff We Love Love 2 Learn Elmo, the Healthy Back Bag and more.

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Loud Moms Stay calm and listen, really listen, to your child

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MoMENts Solving the word problems of life

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Taking your child to the ER An Emergency Room visit is never planned, but parents can do some things to prepare.

Family workouts and community center programs keep kids fit without competition.

Preteen

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Helping kids deal with grief Several programs in South Florida help children deal with loss.

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Working out without a team

Child STEM toys encourage creativity

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January ON THE COVER

Dylan Vining, 4, of Pembroke Pines, 2016 Cover Kids finalist

Serving Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach

FREE

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JANUARY 2017

Taking a walk in the woods

CALENDAR 40

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

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Clothing provided by The Children's Place

Kid-Friendly fitness What to

THE PHOTOGRAPHER

expect

Beth Black

at the ER

Affordable Family Fitness

Helping children deal with grief

Private School Guide Inside

A PUBLICATION OF

Getting in shape doesn’t have to be expensive.

ADVERTISING DIRECTORIES

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Schools Special Needs Party Planner Photography Attractions Camps Classes & After school

DECEMBER 2016

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Serving Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties The mission of South Florida Parenting is to be the most valuable source of parenting information and local resources for families in South Florida. We are committed to enhancing the lives of families by maintaining excellence in editorial content, presenting high-quality events and encouraging community awareness.

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editor's » note

A man in the making ment will be my top priority.

The year 2017 is dawning with much My son likes to play a game with me. more uncertainty than previous years, but “Who is more important?” he will ask. our mission as parents has not changed.

“Me or the car?” (Or “Me or We want to raise our kids the Kindle,” or the house, or to be confident, compassionwhatever he is thinking of at ate, resourceful and kind. We the moment.) encourage them to be curious This is an easy one, right? about the world around them Always him! But the other day, and to do their best in every he asked me, “Who is more situation. We remind them of important? Me or my happithe benefits of perseverance, JENNIFER JHON ness?” honesty, hard work and selfThis was also easy to decide, control. We praise them and love them, because what is best for him doesn’t and we urge them to appreciate and always make him happy. But explaining love others. it to him wasn’t as simple.

This part of parenting never changes.

Lately, I’ve resorted to complete honEven when my kids grow to be my age, esty, telling him how much I love him I will want the best for them and the and want good things for his future. best from them.

“If you learn to make good decisions This will happen no matter who is in now,” I tell him, “you will grow into a the White House, where we live or how man who makes good decisions.” much money we make. Even if our cirSurprisingly, this often improves the cumstances change, my kids’ develop-

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situation drastically. Because although he is still a child, although he wants to play a video game instead of taking a shower, and although he struggles with emotions and expression, he wants to be that man.

So who is more important than any of these “things” he can think of? It is still always him, and I couldn’t be more proud of this man-in-the-making.

Write to us Mail: E-mail:

6501 Nob Hill Road Tamarac, FL 33321 editor@sfparenting.com

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south florida » news

TOP FOR 2017: BEST NEW ATTRACTIONS COMING TO FLORIDA THEME PARKS

BY BRADY MACDONALD The year 2017 is shaping up as a good year for ride enthusiasts and theme park fans. Big parks have announced major projects, including five anticipated arrivals in Florida.

Studios in Orlando is expected to debut in 2017. Themed to the “Toy Story” movies, the land will feature the Slinky Dog Dash family roller coaster and Alien Swirling Saucers ride, on which riders will try to escape the Claw as their alien-themed vehicles spin to a “space jazz” soundtrack.

1) PANDORA: THE WORLD OF AVATAR LAND AT DISNEY’S ANIMAL KINGDOM The new Avatar Land coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom in 2017 will be populated by blue-skinned Na’vi people, bioluminescent trees and flying banshees from the 2009 “Avatar” movie.

The alien land’s marquee attraction will be a banshee flight simulator similar to Soarin’ at Epcot and Disney California Adventure, and an indoor boat ride similar to Pirates of the Caribbean will take riders on a river journey through the illuminated forest of Pandora.

3) VOLCANO BAY WATER PARK AT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS FLORIDA The 53-acre Volcano Bay water park is set to open in June. The 200-foot-tall Krakatau volcano at the center of the Polynesian-themed water park will feature waterfalls by day and lava flows at night.

A 125-foot-tall trap door-launch speed slide will travel through the man-made volcano before splashing into a pool.

The new park will include rafts, rapids, racing and body slides as well as a wave pool, water play fortress and lazy river.

2) TOY STORY LAND AT DISNEY’S HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood

4) RACE THROUGH NEW YORK STARRING JIMMY FALLON AT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS “Tonight Show” host Jimmy Fallon will

take visitors on a virtual 3-D ride through the streets, subways and skies of Manhattan in the Race through New York coming to Universal Studios Florida, replacing the Twister: Ride It Out attraction.

On his show, Fallon described Race through New York as “scary, fun, exciting” and said the attraction will feature smoke, scent and water effects.

5) NINJAGO WORLD THEMED LAND AT LEGOLAND FLORIDA A dark ride coming to Legoland Florida in January will allow riders use karatechop hand gestures to shoot fireballs at ninja warriors on giant video screens.

The high-tech Ninjago: The Ride will feature sensors on the front of each ride vehicle that register the hand movements of riders who zap color-coded fireballs at digital screens populated with animated Lego figures. The ride will be the centerpiece of a new Asian-inspired Ninjago themed land featuring test-of-skill games, a restaurant and a retail store.

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family » health

& safety

Safety Tips for Strollers and Car Seats

BY MALVINA DUNCAN, NICKLAUS CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

If you have young children, a car seat and a stroller are among the many necessities of life. You want to be sure your child is safe and comfortable when traveling in a car or going out for a walk.

But every hour, two children age 5 or younger are treated in emergency rooms for injuries related to strollers or car carriers, according to a recent study published in the journal “Academic Pediatrics.”

Researchers found that nearly 361,000 young children were treated in hospitals from 1990 to 2010 — mostly for head and facial injuries, including concussions.

Fortunately, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission now requires all strollers made after September 2015 to meet new safety standards. Be sure to check the date of manufacture before purchasing a stroller, and follow the instructions to be sure you have assembled it correctly.

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family » health Before leaving home, check to see the stroller’s clips or buckles are securely fashioned to avoid a fall. Don’t overload the stroller with heavy items such as a bag of groceries, as that might cause it to tip over. Young children should also be protected from the rays of the sun — but without heavy clothing that could cause overheating.

If you stop on your walk, lock the stroller’s wheels so it won’t suddenly roll away.

And never leave your child unattended in a stroller, even for a few moments.

TIPS FOR CAR SEAT SAFETY The best type of car seat or carrier depends on the size and age of your child.

Infants should ride in rear-facing car seats until at least age 2, according to recommendations by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). If your child is small, it’s a good idea to stick with a rear-facing seat even after that age.

For children older than 2, a forwardfacing car seat with a five-point harness should be used until the child’s height and weight exceed the guidelines for your particular car seat. (Usually, 65 pounds is the upper limit for most car seats.) A booster seat can be used to bridge the gap until the child fits the vehicle seat belt system, usually when the child is taller than 4 foot 9. All children ages 12 and under should be properly secured in a back seat on every ride.

Unfortunately, studies indicate that nearly a third of children ride in the wrong restraints for their age and size, and four out of five child safety seats are used incorrectly. For instance, you should never use a rear-facing child seat with an active frontal air bag, which could cause serious injury or death if it deploys.

Here are some other safety tips on car seats and carriers: Read the manufacturer’s instructions about installing and caring for the car seat.

Route the harness straps according to the manufacturer instructions, and adjust them so they fit snugly against your child’s body.

When carrying an infant to the car, keep the carrier low to the ground. If you stumble or drop the carrier, your child will have less distance to fall.

• Don’t allow your child to “graduate” from a booster seat or move from the back seat to the front of a car before they have grown enough to make the change safely.

More tips are available from Safe Kids Worldwide at usa.safekids.org.

Recognizing the vital importance of child safety, Nicklaus Children’s Hospi-

tal offers child safety seat inspections to ensure that car seats have not been subject to recalls and are installed properly. To schedule, please call 305-663-6800.

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, part of Miami Children’s Health System, is the proud lead organization for the Miami-Dade County SAFE KIDS Coalition.

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stuff » we SKIN CLEANING MADE EASY The Baby Cleansing Pads from Pura Naturals probably won’t be used exclusively by baby in your home. The soft, reusable soapy pads are great for cleaning skin on all ages, and this mommy used the pads just as much to clean her face as to clean her daughter. The shea butter and jojoba pads come in plain (Silly Sea Star) for baby, and as a Lavender Dreams facial pad, and the suds last for weeks with light use. Pack of three, $8.99. puranaturalsproducts.com

ALL CLEAN? NOW MOISTURIZE Treat your skin with Mad Hippie Face Cream, an p antioxidant-packed face cream that feels light and n no ngreasy on the skin n, plus it comes without nongreasy skin, parabens or chemic cals for truly natu chemicals natural care.

In the sun, protectt your skin with Mad Hippie Face Cream w with Facial SPF, w which uses o ils such as red rraspberry oils seed oil, avoca avocado oil and carrot seed oi oil, plus Ferulic acid, to protect ha skin from harsh sun lac of chemrays. The lack sunscree make ical sunscreens sa for kids, the cream safe $24.99too. $24.99-$25.99, madhippie.com

GO TALC TALC-FREE -FREE E Farmaesthetics’ Farmaesthe etics’ High Cotton Body Dus st uses finely Dust ground organ ic lavender organic buds, thyme flowers and sage instead of talcum powder – which has been linked to several types of cancer – to soothe and protect baby’s skin. The body dust’s elements are antimicrobial and antifungal, making it ideal for keeping baby dry and smelling fresh. $27, farmaesthetics.com

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LLOVE 2 LEARN ELMO The Love 2 Learn Elmo deliver ers a customizable play experience for children hildren through its smart plush Parents can use toy. Parents the Love 2 Learn Elmo App to input ors, favorite their child’s favorite colors, ods, and well animals, and favorite foods, ze their fun their name, to personalize so choose with Elmo. They can also learning activities from three difnd five ferent learning stages and or different subjects to tailor the educational experience for their child and select songs and phrasess ort so Elmo can offer support in daily routines, such as brushotty, and ing teeth, going to the potty, more. The Elmo toy has sensors in the nose, hands and belly, so ild’s touch. h the toy responds to a child’s o to hear him giggle or touch his Children can tickle Elmo hand to his belly to play instruments. The Elmo App includes privacy features and is available on iOS and Android. $59.99. ENTER TO WIN: SouthFloridaParenting.com GOOD FOR THE BODY Heavy purses are bad for your back, k, especially when worn on one shoulder. The h Healthy Back Bag aims to avoid such ody problems with its ergonomic crossbody bag that distributes weight evenly across your back and relieves strain g on your neck and shoulders. The bag comes in a variety of materials and colors and has a surprising number ur of pockets inside and out to keep your e. daily essentials organized and secure.

Starting at $28. ameribag.com

A MIRACLE MIRA CLEAN Keeping the house clean with kids is close to impossible, but DNA Miracles is Keep an inn innovative line of natural cleaning products that simplifies the struggle. The DNA H Home Solutions Bundle with Bottles includes four bottles and a container of concen concentrated non-toxic and biodegradable cleanser packs that can be used to refill your cleansing supply over and over, making the $39.95 cost extremely inexpensive and great for the environment. The bundle includes plant-based and phosphate-free packets of playroom cleanser, veggie wash, stain remover and dish soap, making it useful throughout your home. DNA Miracles also has a body care line for babies with the same chemical-free philosophy, including a natural diaper cream ($17.95), body lotion ($15.95), foaming wash and shampoo ($13.95) and ointment ($22.50). dnamiracles.com

JANUARY 2017 17

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Taking Your Child to the [Emergency Room]

BY CAROL J. ALEXANDER One hot August afternoon, I heard it — one of those screams that tells you something is grossly wrong.

Jay’s voice followed: “Johnny!”

I looked out my bedroom window to see 5-year-old Johnny running, Jay’s long legs overtaking him as he scooped him up and brought him into the house, a trail of blood following.

“Let me see,” I said. “No, Mama, you can’t,” Jay cried as he covered Johnny’s toddler-sized hands with his full-grown ones. “Just call 9-1-1!”

I pried Jay’s grip open to assess the situation. “What did this?” I cried. “What did this to my baby’s hands?”

I didn’t understand it until I got back home and could see the piece of shop equipment — the one that was supposed to be unplugged but wasn’t; the one whose switch Johnny leaned against while watching his big brother work; the one that would reach out, grab his hands,

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WINTER ALLERGIES In South Florida, we are blessed with mild winters, which can be wonderful compared with rigid and snowy weather conditions, but can cause year round allergy woes for anyone prone to environmental allergies. Many of those warm-weather irritants like pet dander, dust, mold and mildew are around all year.

January 21 Missoula Children’s Theatre presents Gulliver’s Travels

Top Triggers of Winter Allergies Pets: patients are allergic to a protein found in the pet dander, saliva and urine.

Mold and mildew: Mold thrives in damp, humid areas in your home, such as the bathroom; decaying leaves and other yard waste give mold and mildew an ideal breeding ground.

Dust and dust mites: House dust deposits on fabrics, rugs, carpet and on top and under furniture. Almost invisible dust mites can flourish in mattresses and bedding. When dust and dust mite remain and droppings become airborne, they can cause allergy symptoms.

February 17 Mutts Gone Nuts

Holiday decor: holiday decorations can be an unsuspected winter allergies trigger. Trees, wreathes and garland can harbor chemicals and mold. Decorations brought out of storage may have been stored with a great dose of dust and dust mites. One recommendation to avoid triggering allergy symptoms is spraying trees and greenery with water before they are brought inside.

You should also remove the dust from holiday decorations before hanging them. Don’t forget about festive red colorful poinsettias, the plant belongs to the rubber family and can be problematic for people with latex allergies.

Tips to Reduce Allergens The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology advises the following steps:

March 17 The Magic of Bill Blagg

• Remove or reduce carpets, if possible.

• Mop, sweep, vacuum and dust often. Wash showers and sinks to remove mold and mildew.

• Discard shower curtains, wallpaper or carpeting that have mold.

• Turn on exhaust fans when taking a shower or cooking to reduce humidity and odors.

• Use a dehumidifier to maintain indoor humidity levels of 30 to 40 percent. It helps control dust mites and mold.

• Install high-efficiency furnace filters, which eliminate 30 times more allergens.

• Use a HEPA air filter to clean dust from the air and a HEPA vacuum on carpets • Wash bedding and pajamas in hot water at least once a week. Use hypo-allergenic covers on mattresses, pillows and comforters.

• Bathe pets and wash pet bedding every week. Keep pets out of the bedrooms.

• Wash your hands often, especially after playing with pets.

• Take a shower or change clothes to remove allergens that may be clinging to you.

• Avoid touching your face.

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chew them up and spit them out again.

In 23 years as a mother with six children, this was not my only visit to an emergency department. Yet the scenario never gets old.

No parent, whether on the first visit or the 10th, is emotionally prepared for a trip to the emergency department with a child.

However, there are some things you can do before anything happens that will make the experience less stressful.

BEFORE ANYTHING HAPPENS Make a list of everything your family members take on a daily basis. That includes prescription drugs, vitamins, food supplements and herbal remedies.

Have a list of your doctors and their phone numbers. A short list of known allergies, past surgeries and any pertinent medical interventions would also be appropriate.

I’m not recommending you keep a copy of your medical file with you at all times — just a few notes. Keep a copy of these lists and your insurance card in your wallet.

Have in mind where to go. If your area has more than one hospital, knowing where you want to go before an emergency will give peace of mind in the moment.

MAKING A DECISION Your teenage daughter has had a fever and swollen glands for a few days. She

wakes up from an afternoon nap with her eyes swollen shut. Should you take her to the emergency room? Your son tries jumping from the top bunk and lands funny on his arm. He’s nauseous and feels like he’s going to pass out. Do you take him?

Unless the symptoms are obvious (no breathing, unconsciousness, bleeding that cannot be stopped with pressure), this is a question every parent will ask. Dr. William Brady, professor of emergency medicine at the University of Virginia Medical Center, says: “If it’s a life and limb situation, just get there.”

“Sometimes a fever is an emergent situation,” he says, “sometimes it is not.” So if you are in doubt, a few extra steps can help you come to the right conclusion.

Call your pediatrician or family doctor—even in the middle of the night. Running a child’s symptoms by the pediatrician could save you an unnecessary emergency room visit.

And beyond the hospital, many doctors have late, weekend and holiday hours.

If the doctor can see the child, calling in advance can save you an ER visit.

Don't call the hospital. Dr. Brady says that in today’s liability environment, most emergency departments will not advise over the phone; it is better just to go.

HOW TO GET THERE If you find yourself wondering whether

you should call 9-1-1, ask yourself, “Is there something an ambulance can do for my child that I cannot do?” Obviously, you cannot attend to your child while driving a car. If you do not have help, it is better to call an ambulance than to get distracted by your child while driving.

Transport time is another consideration.

If you live in a rural area serviced by volunteer squads, you may be able to transport your child before the first responders could arrive to your home. But in the city, “EMS usually arrives within 5 minutes,” shared Peggy, a mother of six with about eight ER visits under her belt. “Hospitals are 20 minutes with traffic.”

IN THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT Do understand the emergency department does not operate on a first come, first served basis.

Upon arriving, you will be assessed by a triage nurse who will rate your symptoms according to severity and prioritize your care on a scale that ranges from “lifethreatening” to “can wait a couple hours.”

Your visit to the ER will be a much more pleasant experience if you understand this protocol and are not aggravated by it.

“Parents of multiple children should be prepared to spend several hours in the ER,” said Heather, a mother of six boys who has made “umpteen” emergency visits. “Bring a bag with some special toys,

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books, art supplies and/or games. This bag should be kept in the back of your car. These should be things that your kids only see or play with on special occasions, so as to hold their attention longer.”

Do not feed or medicate your child while waiting.

However, “if your child has a fever, give him some Tylenol or Motrin according to his weight,” said Beth, a registered nurse in an emergency department. “Don’t let it go so that we can see how sick he is. This only increases your child’s discomfort.”

That said, giving food, drink or medications in the waiting room may skew test results or prolong any definitive treatment your child needs. Check with a nurse before offering your child a snack.

Do speak up. Openly share all details with the medical staff — especially those concerning medications and even herbal supplements. Many doctors are educated in the most common herbal remedies, such as echinacea for colds and flu. If your attending physician doesn’t know about the herbs you mention, he may want to look them up to rule out side effects.

Do ask questions. Be involved in your child’s care. If you do not understand what the doctor tells you, ask her to explain it again. “Make sure you understand the diagnosis, and on discharge, the care plan and follow-up instructions,” Beth said. “Don’t leave confused; it is

much easier to answer questions and clear up concerns (when you are there) than to have you call back in.”

It is in your child’s best interest for you to know why they run certain tests or what the follow-up care entails. “If you have questions,” said Heather, “it’s OK to ask the doctor in two or three different ways, to be sure you understand what they are saying. … Ultimately, even though we are seeking help from professionals, we the parents are responsible for our children’s health care, and we should be proactive in knowing as much as possible to make the best decisions we can.”

Do take notes. Because you may follow up with your pediatrician or a specialist during normal office hours, you will want to remember what you were told in the hospital, any medications that were given and any tests that need to be scheduled. If you cannot spell the medical terms or the names of the medications, ask the nurse.

He or she will be happy to help you.

Johnny’s accident has a happy ending.

He did require surgery and follow-up care, but today you’d never know anything ever happened.

As for the future? Let’s just say the lists are in my wallet and I definitely know how things work around an emergency department.

JANUARY 2017

12/14/16 11:54 AM

Keep your kids in shape without organized sports

BY GARY CURRERI When it comes to fitness and competitive sports, Randy Colman has seen both ends of the spectrum.

“I believe there is a lot that can be done at home as a family that doesn’t require a lot of money,” the high school basketball coach said.

“I believe that families that play together, stay together.”

Colman serves as executive director at the Adolph & Rose Levis Jewish Community Center in Boca Raton, which offers programs for youth fitness, swimming, and conditioning – without the stress of intense competition.

He said parents don’t have to experience the stress of three to five nights of practices a week plus games on weekends for their children in competitive sports.

“Even with the youth leagues that we offer,” Colman said, “they don’t require practices during the week that have the pressure of participating on a school team or a travel program.”

Colman believes in the philosophy that the family as a whole should incorporate fitness into its lifestyle. He said if people, especially children, want to be healthy and fit, keeping it casual can be important.

“Let the kids be kids and let them experience multiple sports,” said Colman, who holds a master’s degree in exercise science from the University of Florida.

“When they get to middle school and high school, they can dive into a sport they are passionate about. Sometimes parents are a little overzealous and think their child may be better than really are.

Less than 1 percent is going to get a college scholarship. Let them play and let them have fun.”

As they mature, children should work on their strength, flexibility and cardiovascular endurance. Once they reach 13, they can begin weight and strength training. Before then, they can work against their own body weight.

For the past 11 years, the Fort Lauderdale-based nonprofit FLIPANY has provided physical fitness activities as well as nutrition and cooking education throughout the tri-county area.

FLIPANY CEO Lynne Kunins said there are many fitness opportunities in South Florida, including local parks with walk-

FLIPANY'S 5K/10K RUN WALK PADDLE IS SCHEDULED FOR JAN. 7 IN HOLLYWOOD BEACH. SUBMITTED PHOTO

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ing trails and exercise equipment. Cities offer low-cost or free classes, too.

“In our climate, I believe a great way to get started is to try a 5K, even if you walk, and try and improve your time,” Kunins said. “You can do it as a family. You can train as a family. Those are super-low-cost things to do. You can even spend $15 on an exercise band and work out while watching TV.” FLIPANY works with businesses, afterschool programs, churches and cities to provide free programming.

“What we offer is experts in the fields of culinary, nutrition and fitness to improve anybody’s heath no matter where they are at,” Kunins said. “What we do takes the competition out of the physical activity and puts the socialization into the physical activity. We are doing something together, but they are doing it at their own fitness level.”

Kunins said the organization works with families of all ages and income levels on how to stay healthy.

“Once they learn it, they can do it for a lifetime,” Kunins said. “The social aspect of it is the glue to what we do. When we first started, there was not a lot of information out there. You could only get healthy if you could afford it, or if you were diagnosed with diabetes, heart disease or some sort of chronic disease and you could get help that way.”

FLIPANY is raising funds for its programs and giving families a chance to get involved in fitness with its 5K/10K Run Walk Paddle scheduled for Jan. 7 in Hollywood Beach.

For homeschooled children ages 5 to 17, Broward-based Saints International is a Christian professional physical education program that reaches more than 5,000 students each week in Florida, Texas and Las Vegas. It recently launched its first out-of-the-country programs in Guatemala, Kenya and Zambia.

Coach Rick Andreassen, who studied psychology with an emphasis on early childhood development, founded Saints in 1997. His curriculum, which he said he developed while working at an Association of Christian Schools Internationalaccredited school, uses a “station rotation” of activities in which participants spend 30 minutes on a sport and activity before moving on to the next one.

“That way, in a couple of hours, they can go through a lot of … sports, and there is a lot of high energy,” Andreassen said. “It is good for their attention span, and studies show that kids who are active think clearer and have better coordination skills. We provide a multifaceted gym class rather than kids signing up to play in a baseball or a team sport.”

JANUARY 2017

12/14/16 11:53 AM

Andreassen said Saints’ programs have 15 to 20 participants in each of four groups that rotate among activities.

The sessions are three-hour blocks, and families can sign up for six hours per day. Most attend once a week at parks or churches. The families may also participate in community and scholastic sports leagues.

Wellington’s Rich Wygand coaches kids and adults in completing triathlons through rwtraining.net. “For kids, the most important thing is it has to be fun,� he said.

In 2004, Wygand said, he was unhealthy and 100 pounds overweight.

He changed his diet and lifestyle and has since competed in 18 Ironman distance races, including 15 as a professional. He has been coaching for about a decade. “I tell my own kids that exercising is like brushing your teeth — you need to do it every day,� he said.

Wygand said family-oriented exercise is an effective and convenient way to make sure kids get exercise. “In most of the [team] sports today, coaches tend to train those kids like little professionals,� Wygand said. “Not only is it tough on the parents’ schedule, but it is busy for the kids as well. I think it should be about the family. If the dad is going to go for a run, put the kid on a bike.�

Delray’s Jeff Pustilnik and his wife, Carrie, an accomplished half-marathoner, are owners of The GYMM Zone in Boca Raton and have been helping child athletes, special-needs children and other kids through their training program for many years. “We believe not all children are into organized sports, and we work one-on-one or small groups to challenge [them] in a fun way to strengthen their bones and muscles,� he said. “The benefits to exercise are too numerous to mention them all, but it makes people happier, healthier, smarter, flexible and reduces stress.�

Pustilnik said putting kids on a fitness schedule helps develop life skills for the future, including discipline, confidence and healthy habits. The tri-county area provides plenty of events. “There are programs outside of organized sports like running clubs, oneon-one training, small-group exercise training, weekend 5Ks and walks and many other things in South Florida,� he said.

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the weather is bad, check with your local mall to see if they open early for walkers.

Nothing encourages the teenage track star like having mom or dad run with him.

time. Differing your strokes can work different muscle groups, too. If you have to go to the public pool, purchasing a family pass will make it more affordable.

RIDE A BICYCLE If you need to save the wear and tear on your vertebrae, ride a bicycle. A good bike can last you the rest of your life. OK, so you might need to spend that $700 to get one, but that is only the first year of a lifetime investment. Don’t forget the helmet! Setting that example for your kids is important. Also, when riding together as a family, remember to review safety rules before you begin.

ROLLERSKATING At the roller rink near my house, adults pay no general admission. That means if I own my own skates, I can skate all I want for free. The next-closest rink charges $2 during the week and $5 or $6 on the weekend, depending on which night you want to go. Even if you pay for the kids, it is an evening of exercise and family fun all in one.

LIFT WEIGHTS Got teenage boys? Buy a weight bench and bar set for less then $100 and set it up in your basement, spare bedroom or garage, then teach them to use it. Even if you splurge on more expensive equipment, the investment will be paid for in a year. And if they have their friends over to lift weights, you’ll know where they are.

SWIMMING If you live in a condominium or apartment complex, or own your own pool, you can swim for free. Swimming is one form of exercise that provides an aerobic workout and stretches muscles at the same

MIX IT UP Everyone knows how important it is to vary your workout and focus on different parts of your body. What better way than to mix up your exercise (and family fun) routine? Ride bikes on Monday, run together on Tuesday, visit the roller rink on Wednesday, etc. This type of routine gives you the flexibility you might find at the gym so that you don’t get bored with your workout. The kids? They’ll just think you’re having fun.

WORKOUT DVD When my kids were toddlers, Nana bought them the book “Hop Like a Bunny, Waddle Like a Duck.” It came with a cassette tape with tunes to move to. It was fun for them and a workout for me. For something more adult, you can purchase a workout DVD for $7 to use in the comfort of your own living room. From the “extreme home fitness” to “cardio max” to “banish fat, boost metabolism,” a workout video exists to fit your needs.

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Hope and Healing for Grieving Children

BY CHRISSIE FERGUSON When a loved one dies, it is natural to experience feelings of sorrow, shock, denial, anger and confusion. And while it’s important that we take care of ourselves and rely on the support of others as we journey through the grief process, we must not forget, as parents and caregivers, to pay attention to the roller coaster of emotions that our children may be experiencing as well.

“Children of different ages cope with death in different ways,” says Abby Mosher, the founder and executive director of Tomorrow’s Rainbow Inc. The organization allows children who have experienced the death of a loved one to interact with miniature horses on a private ranch in Coconut Creek, participate in therapeutic play and receive peer support.

“A small child’s grief is going to be different than a teenager’s,” Mosher says.

“Little ones will not be able to grasp the finality of death and that their loved one isn’t coming back until they are about 7.”

Tomorrow’s Rainbow, which was developed 11 years ago so no child would have to grieve alone, offers free peer support sessions twice a month for ages 3 to 18.

Because the grieving process changes as a child matures, the organization has an open-door policy, allowing children to come back to the ranch whenever they need to.

With research showing that one in seven children will have a parent or a sibling die by the time they reach 20, it’s important that grieving children are provided with a support system.

“When we support children’s grief, we reduce the possibility of at-risk behaviors in their future,” Mosher says.

Tomorrow’s Rainbow also offers family retreats and camps. One partner in that mission is Camp Kangaroo, a national bereavement camp offered free of charge to ages 5 to 18.

The Camp Kangaroo program, led by

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dedicated professionals and trained volunteers from Seasons Hospice & Palliative Care, is based in psychotherapy and creative arts therapy, providing participants with grief education and emotional support along with fun camp activities.

“There are times when children have problems with grief where a basic support group isn’t enough,” says Mosher. “Camp Kangaroo is the perfect enhancement to the services we already provide.”

Each Camp Kangaroo session ranges from two to four days with a curriculum sequenced to move campers through the tasks of mourning, says Ryana Goldberger, national director of supportive care and patient experience at Seasons.

“Often as parents, we have trepidation that [children] might be exposed to things they might not be able to deal with,” says Goldberger, who has directed several Camp Kangaroos across the country. “We find the opposite — children are very resilient and receptive.”

At Camp Kangaroo, “children are smiling and laughing and playing,” Goldberger says. “They exchange contact information at the end of camp. They have a great time.”

Before any Camp Kangaroo event, a master’s-level social worker will conduct a comprehensive in-home assessment with a child.

The social worker will ask parents or caregivers if there have been changes in their child’s behavior or what their expectations may be for their child, Goldberger says.

Signs that a grieving child may need support include changes in school performance, increased anxiety, trouble sleeping, changes in appetite, behavioral problems or regression in behavior, such as bed-wetting and thumb sucking.

“It is also very normal for children to become more clingy or attached to a parent after a loss,” Goldberger says.

“Children may also experience paranoia or protectiveness of a parent who is still alive.”

Another bereavement camp is Camp Erin, offered free of charge for ages 6 to 17. This camp, sponsored by The Moyer Foundation and Catholic Hospice, is a three-day program facilitated by professional staff and trained volunteers. It provides bereaved children with a safe place to tell their story and share their feelings

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while learning healthy coping strategies for their grief journey.

At Camp Erin, “We provide activities to help [children] deal with whatever they are feeling in a healthy way,” says Alejandra Navas, community relations specialist for Catholic Hospice. “We teach them that it’s OK to experience those emotions, but it’s what you do about it that makes a difference.”

BEREAVEMENT CAMP DATES AND SUPPORT CENTERS: Camp Kangaroo: January 14–15, located at Shake-A-Leg Miami seasonsfoundation.org/camp-kangaroo Camp Erin: March 24–26, located at Camp Owaissa Bauer in Miami. Email CampErin@catholichospice.org.

Tomorrow’s Rainbow Ranch Visit Tomorrowsrainbow.org or call 954978-2390 to schedule an orientation.

Children’s Bereavement Center (four locations in Miami-Dade and Broward) Provides free peer support groups for children, young adults and adult caregivers after the death of a loved one. childbereavement.org

HOW TO HELP CHILDREN AGES 2 TO 12 GRIEVE: Be aware that children grieve differently than adults do.

Use language your child can understand.

Allow your child to attend the funeral if she or he wants to.

Share your faith and beliefs in ways your child can understand.

Hug your child often.

Ease your child’s fears.

Include your children in plans to cope with special days.

Take care of yourself.

Ask for help.

Get extra support.

Contact CancerCare to learn about free individual and group counseling services for children and adults.

SOURCE: CANCERCARE.ORG

Chrissie Ferguson is a freelance writer and the mother of three boys. She is also a middle school language arts teacher at Rosarian Academy in West Palm Beach. Follow her on Twitter @gatorchriz1

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It is possible that you will see these issues play out in school performance, family relations and peer interaction.

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If your child is younger than 10, the situation is likely different. Younger children can freely talk with their parents, and they do not look at you like you have a third eye growing out of your forehead. Parents also have not yet graduated to being the stupidest people on earth.

If young children are not exhibiting problematic behaviors, the best thing parents can do is listen and support them.

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life

school, doing the work, has friends (or at least one), is able to be in a social setting, and is following the teacher’s direction and the rules of the school, chances are they are doing well.

If their functioning is being inhibited by their anxiety, it is time to call a therapist.

Here is the rule of thumb for all ages: Listen. I mean really listen to your kids.

Keep your mouth zipped up.

WHAT NOT TO DO: Don’t offer advice.

Don’t tell them it is not that bad.

Don’t ask them what is the worst thing that can happen.

Don’t cough up some cliche that has no meaning to them.

Don’t tell them you understand how they feel (it is impossible) WHAT TO DO: Do tell them that you believe in them.

Do ask them if they ever had this problem before and how were they able to get through it.

Do find out what they do to overcome other problems that they have.

Do align yourself with them and identify with what they might be feeling (scared, alone, embarrassed) and share if you have had similar feelings.

Do remain calm.

Do have a beginning, a middle and an end to the conversation and set a time to follow up with them. Often you will find their anxiety has passed and you are more stressed than they are.

Do ask them if they want your feedback instead of just offering it. (There is nothing worst than unsolicited advice.)

From a parental perspective, manage your own anxiety and don’t let it spill on to your child. It is hard when you see your children under pressure, but understand that growth comes out of the struggle. The more you protect them from the struggle, the more difficult you make it for them as they grow into adults.

Coping skills are developed throughout life. Being resilient and having the ability to overcome is what life is about. Whether there is a disability, a life trauma, an illness, a failed test, a bad breakup or a bully, the ability to struggle through, manage self and overcome is what teaches us to be resilient and adaptable people.

Nothing is more important, no matter what the circumstances.

Happy Parenting and Happy New Year!

JANUARY 2017

12/14/16 11:33 AM

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moMENts » a

dad's view

The Variables of life

BY PATRICK HEMPFING “Daddy, do you want to help me study for my math test?” my 12-year-old daughter, Jessie, recently asked after 8 p.m. on a school night.

“Study” meant we’d be sitting down in front of the computer, pulling up word problems and racing to see who could correctly solve the problem first. “I’m tired, Jessie. You can study by yourself.”

Solving math problems wouldn’t make the Top 10 list of activities I enjoy, especially after a full day. By 8 p.m., I’m ready for my end-of-the-day ice cream, not math. However, Jessie tends to make requests until she gets the answer she’s looking for, and on occasion, her twinkling eyes persuade me.

Instead of holding an ice cream scoop, I found myself with pencil, pad and calculator in hand, competing against Jessie for math supremacy. I am competitive, even if it’s trying to beat a sixth-grader in math.

As a former banker and accountant, I’m pretty good with numbers, though debits and credits are a whole lot different than pulling data from a reading problem,

placing it into an algebraic equation and solving it. Thanks in large part to my brother-in-law, Gary, who tutored me, I made a hard-earned “C” in college algebra – many years ago. As a result, Jessie won our math competition, 8 to 3.

Last year, when Jessie was a fifth-grader, she requested help with two math problems near bedtime. I read both questions.

Each involved multiple equations with multiple unknown variables, but I knew the correct answer. “Let’s call Uncle Gary.” Jessie ran for the phone before I had completed my sentence.

Jessie’s uncle, an engineer, tackled the first problem with her, but she was tired and didn’t seem to grasp the math lesson from the other side of the country. While she got ready for bed, I asked Gary to explain it to me so I could work with her in the morning. I tucked Jessie in way past her bedtime, and she hadn’t even started the second problem.

When I shared my frustration about the late hour on a school night, Jessie

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responded, “I only had two problems left, Daddy. I thought you’d be able to do fifthgrade math.” Ouch!

The next morning, I reviewed Jessie’s homework with her. Uncle Gary had summarized, “The goal is to get down to one equation and one unknown.”

This objective makes sense. As I apply this lesson to parenting, though, I realize it’s not easy to accomplish. There are way too many unknown variables.

What combination of grades and SAT scores will Jessie need to get into the college of her choice? What career will result from Jessie’s passions for reading, writing and dancing? How will Jessie’s decisions be influenced by the various friends and family members in her life? Will she drive the speed limit when Dad’s not sitting next to her in the car? I don’t even want to think about her dating years.

How would I solve this imaginary word problem? With only Daddy standing watch at the front door during Jessie’s first date, Jessie met curfew by one minute.

For her second date, with Daddy plus Uncles Gary and Larry on watch, Jessie returned with only 15 seconds to spare.

Are more than Daddy and two uncles needed for the third date or just one grandfather?

Fortunately, I don’t need to solve all of these now. The equation, though, that I want Jessie to remember as she solves for unknowns in her future is D + M = 100.

Of course, D (Dad) and M (Mom) might not always know the answer, but our love for her will always equal 100 percent.

Parents don’t always have the correct answer. By watching me struggle with her math problem, Jessie received lessons on the importance of hard work, not giving up and the constant need for learning.

It’s also OK to ask for help. Uncle Gary will be on call when Jessie takes algebra.

As I think about the new year, I’m confident unknowns will keep the next 365 days exciting. But whatever life brings, Jessie understands the “D” and “M” in the equations are known and constant.

Until next month, remember to cherish the moments. Happy New Year!

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www.youngatartmuseum.org Funding for this project is provided in part by the Broward County Board of County Commissioners as recommended by the Broward Cultural Council.

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MUSEUM ADMISSION Adults & Children: $14 | Seniors (62+): $12 Broward County Residents: $12 | Military: $11 Museum Members: FREE

Patrick Hempfing had a 20-year professional career before he became a father at age 44. He is now a full-time husband, stay-at-home dad and writer.

Follow Patrick at facebook.com/patricklhempfing and on Twitter @PatrickHempfing

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stages » child

STEM toys encourage creativity

By Karen Deerwester, Ed.s.

S

TEM toys (science, technology, engineering and math) have been hot for the past few years. With the anticipation of raising innovators for a rapidly changing future, parents buy STEM toys to encourage open-ended play and problem-solving for today’s children. According to a “Forbes” magazine article on the North American International Toy Fair, the hottest toys of the holiday season included “connected play, unplugged, STEAM, soft skills, and even creativity. None of these terms surprise anyone.”

But trends can be tricky guides in the early childhood years. Cloud-connected, Wi-Fi connected, speech-recognitionenabled toys are exciting advances in how kids interact with their stuff. While that’s great news for a new tech-savvy generation of kids, it requires a skill base that also goes hand in hand with unplugged play experiences.

Technology is the tool, not the skill.

The skills are collaboration, innovation and problem-solving, as well as reasoning, communication, estimation, sequencing and coding. Young children need lots of real-life experiences to build these skills. (Every parent knows that logic and patience are not innate in young children.)

The new “Media and Young Minds” recommendations from The American Academy of Pediatrics emphasize duration and quality of content. Techconnected time needs to be balanced with unplugged time. Most importantly, we must educate ourselves on “brain development in the early years and the importance of hands-on, unstructured and

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stages » child social play to build language, cognitive, and social-emotional skills.” Yet, in a June article, “Consumer Reports” raises the possibility that in 10 to 15 years, all toys will be connected.

If a toy is interactive and child-directed, it will create opportunities for genuine play. If the toy does too much or is only a one-right-answer interaction, it limits play, thinking and problem-solving. Right now, connected toys are just beginning to give children the lead in play. For example, according to “Consumer Reports,” the CogniToys Dino, “unlike Hello Barbie … isn’t all scripted and prerecorded. ...

Dino can roam the Web to find answers to questions, such as, ‘How far away is the moon?’”

Then there’s the Love2Learn Elmo, which can be programmed by parents for customized conversations for your child.

That’s fun for parents, but it’s the Kid O Myland Car and Fisher-Price Code-a-Pillar that introduce coding features the child can control.

It’s an exciting new world for toys and for play. Parents may want to be cautious about buying into everything. Some features are gimmicks, exciting new add-ons just because the technology is available.

Others offer true coding opportunities and connect to deep learning in children.

There are also new concerns about security and shared information. The MIT Technology Review in July reported that the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act is just catching up to the new technology. COPPA “applies to online services ‘directed to children under 13 that collect, use, or disclose personal information from children.’ That clearly includes toys like the Dino and Hello Barbie. But should it also apply to other applications like Siri and Alexa, or other data-collecting online services that are popular with children even though they are not exclusively directed at them?”

Not all innovation is good for kids.

With awareness, parents can choose well.

Evaluate your child’s interaction with the toy, not just the bells and whistles of the toy itself.

Look for construction toys and projects that offer your child ways to innovate with different results. (Wedgits and Magna-Tiles differ from wooden blocks or tree blocks in final results as well as building strategies.)

Collaboration is a different kind of problem-solving. Coding games require the ability to anticipate next steps and strategize sequences. From board games to ball games, turn-taking still matters.

Create space and time for open-ended,

unplugged play. Considerr epur“small parts play” and “repur” posed play” using “junk.”

Remember, “MacGyver” iss now a verb in the Oxford dictionaries.

When in doubt, leave your es. child with the empty boxes.

TEM They’ve been a reliable STEM toy for centuries.

Karen Deerwester has been writing and arly childlecturing on parenting and early e is the host hood topics since 1984. She e Me of the parenting podcast See uthor Hear Me Love Me and the author er of “The Potty Training Answer e Book,” “The Playskool Guide to Potty Training” and “The Entitlement-Free Child.”

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stages

FAMILY FUN DAY Saturday, Ja n u a r y 2 8 , 2 0 17 11am – 2pm

» preteen

A walk in the woods... for what ails tweens

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JANUARY 2017

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stages

» preteen

While lying in a hammock recently, I looked up into the canopy of a lush green maple tree, its branches spread above me. I felt a surprising sensation, as if the tree were hugging me. It felt good. A sense of calm replaced the agitation with which I had been wrestling.

Shortly thereafter, I came across a Japanese prescription for preventive health. It is a prescription the Japanese have recommended for the past 30 years called “shinrin-yoku.”

The translation turns out to be “forest bathing,” or soaking up the forest atmosphere. In other words, a walk in the woods actually can deliver a unique and measurable list of health benefits.

As I continued to research more about forest bathing, I realized that tweens in particular need the nurturing that trees offer.

The Dark Side of Tween Spirit If you are the parent of a 10- to 15-year-old, you have probably noticed that your son or daughter is a walking contradiction: full of energy one minute, lying comatose on the couch the next. Tweens feel excited, curious or optimistic some of the time and panicked, insecure, and despondent at other times. You can get whiplashed trying to keep up with their moods, anxieties and attention span.

In writing “The Roller-Coaster Years: Raising Your through the Maddening Yet Magical Middle School Years,” my co-author Charlene Giannetti and I discovered a disturbing reality for tweens: The things that generally make people happy are not things most tweens experience.

Let me explain. Happy people like themselves and feel a sense of personal control over their lives.

They are optimists, and most are extroverts. These characteristics clash with the lives of many young adolescents. First off, tweens look in the mirror and don’t like what they see: too tall, too short, too curvy, not muscular enough, pimples, braces — to name a few negative self-image messages. Basically, tweens are selfconscious and self-critical.

Next, they often feel powerless because adults control their lives.

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stages

We deliver for you.

» preteen

ing school days, chores, sports or band practices and homework. They are often prevented from doing what they want because they aren’t old enough — think going to the mall alone or staying out as late as they want.

Consumers by nature, tweens covet stuff but rarely have the funds to buy the fancy and pricey items (fashion or electronics) they want. And they are too young to work.

Powerlessness doesn’t yield much satisfaction.

Tweens want to be extroverted, which in their world means popular. But the fast and furious nature of friendships and crushes wears them down. As we note, “Their friendships are hardly restorative and emotionally rewarding on a regular basis.”

The one trait tweens do have in common with happy people is that they are optimistic about the world. Alas, that positivity dips and dives with roller-coaster rhythm.

In a nutshell, tweens need help dealing with the stresses, frustration and restlessness that are part and parcel of growing up. They need a little more happy.

Healing Powers of Trees as Elixir

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A Japanese study by forest therapy expert Yoshifumi Miyazaki found that folks who spent 40 minutes wandering through a cedar forest had lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol compared with people who spent the same time walking in a lab. Whoever thought the anecdote for worrying about tests, grades and bullying could be found under a maple, an oak or a palm tree?

Trees and plants give off compounds called phytonicides. When these are inhaled, a range of therapeutic benefits occurs. Blood pressure lowers. The immune system gets stronger. These posi-

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JANUARY 2017

12/14/16 10:38 AM

stages

» preteen

tive impacts offer protection against cancer, heart disease, anxiety, depression and attention disorders.

A small 2015 study in Proceedings of the Natural Academy of Sciences found that people who walked for 90 minutes in a natural setting, either a forest or a nature park, were less likely to “ruminate” — worry. They had lower activity in the part of the brain linked to depression.

So when your tween comes home deflated, defeated or broken-hearted, don’t get out the chocolate chip cookie recipe or that half-gallon of ice cream. Instead, take a hike.

Most tweens are easily distracted — ask any middle school teacher how antsy their students are. Several studies showed kids diagnosed with ADHD improved with exposure to nature. A University of Michigan study found short-term memory improved 20 percent after a nature walk, compared with no change after a walk through city streets. Recess outside quelled ADHD symptoms in kids, according to their parents. Kids who played outside had milder symptoms than those who played indoors. So, if diagnosed kids benefit, just think how all tweens could ease their distracted natures with a little time in natural surroundings.

Adventure in a Nutshell “Forest bathing” is not just for curing what ails a young person. It can also deliver a commodity that tweens want and have trouble getting for themselves: adventure. In surveys for “The RollerCoaster Years,” tweens shared their fantasies. Driving a car and making love were two recurring thrills many looked forward to.

A small though interesting study done at the University of North Florida advocated climbing a tree, not simply sitting underneath one, to improve cognitive skills. Study coauthors Ross and Tracy Packiam Allloway say tree-climbing makes the brain adapt rapidly. It increases working memory by 50 percent because you must be tuned in to your body to move among the branches. Hiking a trail with ever-changing terrain does this, too.

Such an experience makes you feel more alive.

So hit the trails and the trees with your tween for adventure, fun and healing.

Margaret Sagarese is the co-author of “Parenting 911: How to Safeguard and Rescue Your 10- to 15-Year-Old.”

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January

Get an updated nts listing of eveite on our webs

NG.COM

IDAPARENTI

SOUTHFLOR

» Calendar » calendar index 40

Editor’s Picks

41

Festival Highlights

42

Theater, Shows, Concerts

44

Exhibits for Families

editor’s picks

Sunday, January 8 PALM BEACH COUNTY Oshogatsu New Year Celebration. Celebrate the Year of the Snake with games, customary rice-

HIGHLIGHTS ALL COUNTIES

pounding, rice cake creating, a sado tea ceremony, hands-on calligraphy, New Year’s card-making, fortunetelling, taiko drumming, dancing, koto performances, exhibits and more. $12 in advance, $15 at gate; ages 4-10, $6 in advance, $10 at gate. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Morikami Museum & Japanese Gardens, 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach. morikami.org

Saturday, January 21

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY Dan Marino Foundation Walkabout Autism & Expo. Raise awareness and funds to support the Dan Marino Foundation, local schools and organizations that serve the Autism community. 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Hard Rock Stadium, 347 Don Shula Drive, Miami Gardens. Register at dmfwalkaboutautism.org

7 SATURDAY FREE Home Depot Kids Workshop. Ages 5-12.

Build a kids’ toolbox. First come/first served. 9 a.m.-12 p.m. First Saturday of the month. All counties. Free. Find participating stores at homedepot.com

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY

Saturday, January 28 BROWARD COUNTY FREE Rail Fun Day. Live entertainment, arts and crafts, face painting, interactive games and the final competition for Tri-Rail South Florida’s Kids Got Talent. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Tri-Rail Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport Station, 500 Gulfstream Way, Dania Beach. tri-rail.com/rail-fun-day

6 FRIDAY FREE Friday Night Food Trucks. 5:30-10 p.m.

First Friday of each month. Palmetto Bay Village Center, 18001 Old Cutler Road, Palmetto Bay. Free. foodtruckinvasion.com Healthy Kids Day. Games, activities and entertainment to get kids moving. Stage performances and crafts in the Art Studio. 3-6 p.m. Miami Children’s Museum, 980 MacArthur Causeway, Miami. miamichildrensmuseum.org FREE Family Movie Night. “The Spongebob Movie.” Bring blankets and chairs. Kid-themed activity at 7 p.m.; movie 7:30-9 p.m. Heritage Park, 19200 Collins Ave., Sunny Isles Beach. 305-792-1706

7 SATURDAY Discover at Deering. Take a tram ride and go birdwatching for National Bird Day. Ages 6 and up. RSVP arequired. $15. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Deering Estate, 16701 SW 72 Ave., Miami. deeringestate.org/discover-deering FREE Florida Grand Opera Family Day. Activities, performances and interactive experience. 10 a.m.

South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center, 10950 SW 211 St., Miami. fgo.org/education/children_and_family.shtml

FREE First Saturday At Gold Coast Railroad Museum. Fun, food, bounce houses and train rides.

Nominal fee for food and train rides. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Gold Coast Railroad Museum, 12450 SW 152nd St., Miami.

305-253-0063 or GCRM.org

FREE Fashion + Art + Music Nights: First Saturdays. Participating CocoWalk galleries, restaurants and businesses will host artists, live music and promotions. 6-9 p.m. coconutgrove.com/fam FREE Family Movie Night. “The Spongebob Movie.” Bring blankets and chairs. Kid-themed activity at 7 p.m.; movie 7:30-9 p.m. Heritage Park, 19200 Collins Ave., Sunny Isles Beach. 305-792-1706

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» fairs & festivals HOLIDAY FANTASY OF LIGHTS Through Jan. 2. Three miles of giant animated holiday displays and illuminated trees. Open nightly including Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. 6–10 p.m. Tradewinds Park, 3600 W. Sample Road, Coconut Creek. $15 per car; $3 for three pairs of holiday 3D glasses. holidaylightsdrivethru.com MIAMI LANTERN LIGHT FESTIVAL Through Jan. 8. Celebration of Chinese culture featuring massive lanterns, inspiring performances, food and more. Miami-Dade County Fair Expo Center, 10901 SW 24th St., Miami.

Adults $23; ages 2-15, $19. lanternlightfestival.com WINTER WONDERLAND Through Jan. 7. A holiday extravaganza featuring more than 40 different-themed Christmas trees, a model train village and featured displays on Kwanzaa, Three Kings Day and Hanukkah. Plantation Historical Museum, 511 N. Fig Tree Lane, Plantation. Free admission. plantation.org/Museum

$22.43 plus tax. santasenchantedforest.com WINTER WONDERLAND AT THE FARM Through Jan. 11. Face painting, children’s zoo, pony rides, hay rides, paddle boats, holiday treats, and meet Nix the snowman and Sprinkle the gingerbread cookie. Santa Claus appearances at 6:45 p.m. Monday–Friday and noon, 2, 4, 6, 8 p.m. Saturday–Sunday. Chocolate with Santa every Monday at 6:45 p.m. Pinto’s Farm, 14890 SW 216 St., Miami. Ages 1 and up, $19. pintofarm.com/winterland-at-the-farm SOUTH FLORIDA FAIR Jan. 13–29. Music, entertainment, ice skating performances, agriculture and livestock program, historic Yesteryear Village, and more 200 rides, games and attractions. South Florida Fairgrounds, 9067 Southern Blvd., West Palm Beach.

Adults, $15, ages 6-11, $8. southfloridafair.com REDLAND HERITAGE FESTIVAL Jan. 14, 15. Arts and crafts, historical exhibits, food, petting zoo and pony rides. Adults, $8.

Children 11 and under, free. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Fruit & Spice Park, 24801 SW 187th Ave., Homestead. 305-247-5727

DOWNTOWN DELRAY BEACH FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS Jan. 21, 22. Juried festival features handcrafted artwork including glass, photography, painting, mixed media, fiber, jewelry and more. Free. 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. East Atlantic Avenue between U.S. 1 and A1A, Delray Beach.

561-746-6615 FLAMINGO FEST Jan. 21-22. Flamingo art, crafts, live entertainment, street performers, kid’s activities, games, contests, food and more. Narrated tram tour included. Get creative and dress up for a chance to win prizes. Adult, $19.95; ages 3-11, $12.95; ages 2 and under free.

Flamingo Gardens, 3750 S. Flamingo Road, Davie. flamingogardens.org DRAGONFEST Jan. 28. Ring in the Chinese New Year with a DJ, crafts, face painting, Dragon and Lion Dances by John Wai Kung Fu Academy, and a martial arts demonstration. Admission $19.95; ages 3-12, $14.95; ages 2 and under free. 11 a.m.-2:15 p.m. Palm Beach Zoo, 1301 Summit Blvd., West Palm Beach. palmbeachzoo.org/ dragonfest-2017?

FESTIVAL MIAMI Jan. 19–Feb. 17. Three-week festival includes more than 20 live shows including House of Cards in Concert, Emily Estefan, a Dizzy Gillespie tribute with the Frost Concert Jazz Band and more. Tickets start at $15. For schedule and locations, visit festivalmiami.com

CANADAFEST Jan. 28, 29. Learn about the art, music and food of Quebec at the largest francophone festival in the United States. 9 a.m.–9 p.m. 2117 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood. canadafest.com

8 SUNDAY

14 SATURDAY

16 MONDAY

FREE Biscayne’s Fantastic Beasts: Family Fun Fest. Series explores the local animals. This

FREE Citizen Science Workday. RSVP with Frost

Zoo Miami Mini Camp. School’s out, but brains will

Science’s Museum Volunteers for the Environment program to work on citizen science activities. 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Virginia Key North Point, 3801 Rickenbacker Causeway, Miami. frostscience.org/event/citizen-science-workday-2/

still be buzzing as children learn about shark conservation efforts. Ages 5-12. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Zoo Miami, 12400 SW 152 St., Miami. Register at zoomiami.org/node/851

SANTA’S ENCHANTED FOREST Through Jan. 8. Themed displays, Christmas music, foods from around the world, live shows and carnival rides. 5 p.m.–midnight daily. Tropical Park, 7900 SW 40th St., Miami. Adults, $31.78 plus tax; children 3-9,

month: lizards, turtles and snakes. Dante Fascell Visitor Center, Biscayne National Park. 1-4 p.m. 9700 SW 328 St., Sir Lancelot Jones Way, Homestead. 305-230-7275 FREE Historical Bus Tour. Reflect on Sunny Isles Beach’s history. Preregister to join. 1-2:30 p.m. Buses depart from the SIB Government Center, 18070 Collins Ave., Sunny Isles Beach. 305-792-1706

Barnacle under the Moonlight Concert: Four Shillings Short. Bring lawn chairs and picnics.

Second Sunday of the month. Gates open at 5:30 p.m.

6:30-8:30 p.m. Barnacle Historic State Park, 3485 Main Highway, Miami. Members, $8; Non-member adults, $10; Children ages 6-9, $3; Under 6, free. 305-442-6866

11 WEDNESDAY Home School Days at Miami Seaquarium.

PreK-high school. January Theme: “Climate Change and Food Chains.” One parent can attend the class with a child at no cost. Register online. Elementary school session, 10 a.m.-noon; Middle/High School session, 1-3 p.m.

Miami Seaquarium, 4400 Rickenbacker Causeway, Key Biscayne. Class only, $15. 305-361-5705 ext. 207

12 THURSDAY FREE Walk and Talk: Caterpillars and Butterflies. Learn about native butterflies from naturalists.

12-12:30 p.m. A.D. Barnes Park North, 3401 SW 72 Ave., Miami. 305-666-5883

13 FRIDAY Family Fun Movie. Popcorn, soft drinks, hot dogs and other snacks while watching The Peanuts Movie. $5 per person. Gates open 6:30 p.m, movie at 8 p.m.

Pine Crest Gardens Banyan Bowl, 11000 SW 57 Ave., Pinecrest. pinecrest-fl.gov/index.aspx?page=442 Black String. Pre-show panel discussion and Q&A on cultural topics with artists and community leaders begins at 6:30 p.m. Performance at 8 p.m. $30. Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, 3385 NE 188 St., Aventura.

FREE Family Day at the Coral Gables Museum. Free admission to museum and exhibitions. Craft project included. 2-5 p.m. Coral Gables Museum, 285 Aragon Ave., Miami. coralgablesmuseum.org/events Family Day on Aragon. Featured Film: “A Town Called Panic: Double Fun.” Admission includes popcorn and soda. Second Saturday and Sunday of the month. 11 a.m. Coral Gables Art Cinema, 260 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables. $5. 786-385-9689 or gablescinema.com FREE PAMM Free Second Saturdays.

Hands-on activities and guided tours. 1-4 p.m. Pérez Art Museum, 1103 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Adults, $16; ages 7-18, $12. 786-345-5643 or pamm.org FREE HistoryMiami Family Fun Days. Educational, hands-on activities and kid-themed projects. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Second Saturday of the month. HistoryMiami, 101 W. Flagler St., Miami. historymiami.org Sensory Saturday. Yoga, art and other sensory experiences for children with sensory processing disorders and their families. Speech pathologist Laura Donovan will be available to answer questions. 9-11 a.m. Second Saturday of the month. Miami Children’s Museum, 980 MacArthur Causeway, Miami. $15. RSVP. 305-373-5437 ext. 100 or sensorysaturday@miamichildrensmuseum.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. RSVP at 305-944-6111

15 SUNDAY Family Day on Aragon. Featured Film: “A Town Called Panic: Double Fun.” Admissioin includes popcorn and a soda. Second Saturday and Sunday of the month.

11 a.m. Coral Gables Art Cinema, 260 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables. $5. 786-385-9689 or gablescinema.com

18 WEDNESDAY Mommy and Me: Fish Tales and Shark Scales. Toddlers will learn about sharks and fish, and meet a dolphin. Ages 2-5. $10 per parent, $5 for each child or additional parent. 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Miami Seaquarium, 4400 Rickenbacker Causeway, Key Biscayne.

Register at seaquariumpay.com

20 FRIDAY FREE Third Friday at Miami Children’s Museum. 3-9 p.m. Miami Children’s Museum, 980 McArthur Causeway, Miami. miamichildrensmuseum.org

FREE Camping Under the Stars. Overnight camping includes activities, food and refreshments for sale and a screening of DreamWorks’ “Trolls.” Bring old and torn American flags for an flag retirement ceremony.

Doral Central Park, 3000 NW 87th Ave. 305-593-6611

21 SATURDAY Jack in the Beanstalk. A familiar story comes to life in a musical. $20. 2-4 p.m. Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre, 280 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables. Actorsplayhouse.org/childrens.htm

Dan Marino Foundation Walkabout Autism & Expo. Raise awareness and funds to support the Dan Marino Foundation, local schools and organizations that serve the autism community. 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Hard Rock Stadium, 347 Don Shula Drive, Miami Gardens. Register at dmfwalkaboutautism.org FREE Tradiciónes: Perú!. Live performances, storytime, workshops, games, food and crafts to explore Peruvian culture. 12-4 p.m. Koubek Center, 2705 SW Third St., Miami. 305-237-7750 FREE South Motors Fine Arts Festival. Juried art show in a lush setting with sculpture, painting, mixed media, photography, wearable art, food, music and activi-

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» theater, shows, & concerts WINTER SONG & DANCE INTENSIVE WORKSHOP Jan. 3-5. Children ages 8 to 14 develop performance skills in musical theater. The workshop ends with a student showcase. $185. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale. browardcenter.org/education THE PEACOCK’S GIFT Jan. 5. Katie Adams’ Make Believe Theatre tells Chinese folktale of a peacock who helps others. Adults, $8; kids 12 and under, $6. 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Willow Theatre, 300 S. Military Trail, Boca Raton. willowtheatre.org RINGLING BROS. AND BARNUM & BAILEY PRESENTS OUT OF THIS WORLD Jan. 6-15. The circus goes on a cosmic voyage. American Airlines Arena, 601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. ringling.com SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK Bring a blanket or chair for a free Shakespeare Miami production of The Merchant of Venice. shakespearemiami.com/the-merchant-of-venice Jan. 6-8. Mizner Park Amphitheater, 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. No outside food or drinks permitted. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 8 p.m. Sunday show is at 6 p.m.

Jan. 13-15. Barnacle Historic State Park, 3485 Main Highway, Miami. Picnics welcome. Friday and Saturday shows begin at 8 p.m. Sunday show is at 6 p.m.

Jan. 20-22. Pinecrest Gardens Shakespeare Stage, 11000 Red Road, Pinecrest. 8 p.m. No outside food or drinks permitted.

Jan. 27-28. ArtsPark at Young Circle, 1 N. Young Circle, Hollywood. Park opens at 6 p.m. for picnics. Show begins at 7:30 p.m.

A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS Jan. 7, 14. Beloved Peanuts character Charlie Brown looks for the real meaning of Christmas.

Adults, $14.50; children under 12, $10.50. 4 p.m. Showtime Performing Arts Theatre, 503 SE Mizner Blvd., Boca Raton. showtimeboca.com THE PRODUCERS January 10-29. Mel Brooks’ hit musical about two men who aim to make a hefty profit by producing the worst play ever written. Sallie & Berton E. Korman Hall, Maltz Jupiter Theatre, 1001 E. Indiantown Road, Jupiter. For ticket prices and show times visit jupitertheatre.org GOLDEN DRAGON ACROBATS Jan. 18. The actors, athletes and artists hail from Cangzhou, Hebei province in China. $31.27– $52.47. 7:30 p.m. Coral Springs Center for the Arts, 2855 Coral Springs Drive, Coral Springs. coralspringscenterforthearts.com SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE Jan. 19-Feb. 12. Stephen Sondheim musical inspired by painting, “Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte.” Carnival Studio The-

BEAM virtual playground at

SPORTACademy

ater, Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. arshtcenter.org GULLIVER’S TRAVELS Jan. 21. Missoula Children’s Theatre, and 50-60 local stars, in a musical adaptation.

Dolly Hand Cultural Center for the Arts, 1977 College Drive, Belle Glade. dollyhand.org ROALD DAHL’S JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH Jan. 26, 27. A musical adaptation of the classic Roald Dahl adventure. $3–$7.20. Lap tickets for children 12 months and under. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Amaturo Theater, Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale. browardcenter.org BISCUIT THE LITTLE YELLOW PUPPY Jan. 28. Biscuit, the puppy from a series of books by Alyssa Satin Capucilli, goes on adventures and learns the value of having family and friends. $16. Lap tickets available for children 12 months and under. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, 3385 NE 188th St., Aventura. aventuracenter. org HOLLYWOOD HEALING HAITI Jan. 28. Free concert benefits Project Papillon orphanage, school and community youth center in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Bring blanket or lawn chair. 1–5 p.m. ArtsPark amphitheater at Young Circle, 1 N. Young Circle, Hollywood. hollywoodcares.net

FDLRS South Serving both Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties

The Florida Diagnostic & Learning Resources System - South

SCHOOL DIRECTORY

Operating through the Miami – Dade County Public Schools in conjunction with the Florida Department of Education, we are a special education support system for parents, professionals and others who work with children with disabilities, ages birth – 21 years.

BEAM is a virtual playground that makes entertainment lively, hygienic, toy-free and above all, breathlessly fun. Boredom, meet your new kryptonite.

+1 (954) 455-0460 780 E Hallandale Beach Blvd, Hallandale, FL 33009 42

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Our services are Free and include: • CHILD FIND: Offers information and FREE Screenings for children (birth - 5 years) not attending school who may have difficulty with: learning, speaking, playing, seeing, walking, hearing, behavior.

FDLRS South • Main Office • 305-274-3501 6521 SW 62nd Avenue, South Miami, FL 33143

FDLRS South • FL KEYS • 305-289-2490 x59329 http://fdlrs-south.dadeschools.net

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ties. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Pinecrest Gardens, 11000 S. Red Road, Pinecrest. pinecrest-fl.gov

22 SUNDAY Old Time Dance. Get your do-si-do on with a caller and a live band. Gates open at 6 p.m. 6:30-10 p.m.

Adults, $10; Children 9 and under, free. Barnacle Historic State Park, 3485 Main Highway, Miami. 305-442-6866 FREE South Motors Fine Arts Festival. Juried art show in a lush setting with sculpture, painting, mixed media, photography, wearable art, food, music and activities. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Pinecrest Gardens, 11000 S. Red Road, Pinecrest. pinecrest-fl.gov Lincoln, The Civil War and Reconstruction.

A history lesson with a keynote speaker and a panel discussion. $10 per person. 2-4 p.m. HistoryMiami, 101 W. Flagler St., Miami. 305-375-1492 or historymiami.org

25 WEDNESDAY FREE Miami Beach Food Truck & Music Fest. Food trucks and area restaurants. 5-10 p.m. Fourth Wednesday of the month. North Shore Park Bandshell, Collins Avenue and 73rd Street. mbculture.com

27 FRIDAY Nature Film Night. A discussion, archeological dig and dinosaur activities will take place in the Hibiscus Room before participants move to the Banyan Bowl to see Giants of Patagonia in IMAX. $5 per person. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. Activities, 7 p.m. Movie screening, 8 p.m.

Pine Crest Gardens Banyan Bowl, 11000 SW 57 Ave., Pinecrest. pinecrest-fl.gov/index.aspx?page=608 FREE Cultural Fridays. Enjoy music and discover works by local artists and artisans. 7-11 p.m. Last Friday of the month. Domino Park, SW 15th Avenue and 8th Street, Miami. 305-643-5500 or viernesculturales.org

28 SATURDAY Jack in the Beanstalk. A familiar story comes to life in a musical. $20. 2-4 p.m. Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre, 280 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables. Actorsplayhouse.org/childrens.htm Artrageous: Art & Music Gone Wild. A troupe of artists, musicians, singers and dancers create a multisensory experience. $35-55. 8:30 p.m. Seminole Theatre, 18 N. Krome Ave., Homestead. Seminoletheatre.org/ event/272-artrageous-art-music-gone-wild 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

29 SUNDAY FREE 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. 305-673-7256 or mbgarden.org FREE Jose Marti Commemorative walk. Honor the great Cuban poet. 10 a.m. Along West 29th Avenue, Hialeah. 305-889-5701

BROWARD COUNTY 1 SUNDAY FREE Dream Car Classic Car Show. Dozens of classic cars, trucks and other vehicles. First Sunday of the month.10 a.m.-3 p.m. Hollywood Boulevard between 19th and 20th Avenue. 954-825-1027

4 WEDNESDAY Special Guest Artist Mindy Shrago. Meet the executive director of Young at Art Museum, a ceramic artist. Visitors will make their own piece to take home. 2 p.m. Included with paid admission. 751 SW 121st Ave., Davie. youngatartmuseum.org

6 FRIDAY Used Book Sale. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Helen B. Hoffman Plantation Library, 501 N. Fig Tree Lane, Plantation. 954797-2140 First Friday Food Trucks. A gathering of eats on wheels. Live music by Digital Anarchy. First Friday of the

month. 5-9 p.m. Parking lot of Flamingo Gardens, 3750 S. Flamingo Road, Davie. 954-473-2955 Hoop Speed Training. Boys age 12 and up can improve their basketball skills. $45 for Coconut Creek residents, $55 for nonresidents. 6-7:30 p.m. Recreation Complex, 4455 Sol Press Blvd., Coconut Creek. coconutcreek.net/webtrack FREE Movies in the Park. Bring lawn chairs and blankets to watch “Finding Dory.” Movie concessions and glow merchandise will be sold. 7-9 p.m. Villages of Hillsboro Park, 4111 NW Sixth St., Deerfield Beach.

FREE Drive-In Movie at Markham Park. Watch “The Secret Life of Pets” (PG) from your car or bring a lawn chair. Audio will be broadcast via radio frequency.

Plus food vendors and children’s fun zone. Markham Park, 16001 W. State Road 84, Sunrise. 954-747-4600

7 SATURDAY FLIPANY Fun Run and Paddle. All ages can participate in a 5K or 10K run on the Hollywood Boardwalk or paddleboarding on Hollywood Beach. 7-11 a.m. North Beach Park, Corner of Sheridan and A1A, Hollywood.

Adults, $25. Children under 18, $15. Running clubs, $20. Race day, $30. 954-636-2388 Princess Tea Time. Storytime with a princess theme and light refreshments. $15 Coconut Creek residents, $20 nonresidents. 11:30 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. Community Center, 1100 Lyons Road, Coconut Creek. coconutcreek. net/webtrack FREE Tropical Postcard Show. More than a million postcards from dealers from across the country. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Emma Lou Olson Civic Center, 1801 NE Sixth St., Pompano. tropicalpcc.com FREE Silent Peace Walk. Coral Springs Multicultural Advisory Committee and One Planet United host a 20-minute silent walk to reflect on peace. Coral Springs Center for the Arts International Peace Garden, 2855 Coral Springs Drive, Coral Springs. silentpeacewalk.org

8 SUNDAY FREE Retooled Workshop. Holiday ornaments can still have a purpose in January. Kids make a “re-tooled” ornament to take home. First 25 participants receive an IKEA gift. 4-6 p.m. IKEA Sunrise, 151 NW 136th Ave., Sunrise. ikea.com/us/en/store/sunrise Butterfly Release and Picnic. Bright Steps Forward event for children with special needs and their families includes food, drinks, petting zoo and face painting. $5 per person. 12-4 p.m. CB Smith Park, 900 N. Flamingo Road, Pembroke Pines. brightstepsforward.org FREE Sunday Jazz Brunch. Listen to local jazz artists, shop vendors and enjoy food in nearby restaurants.

Bring chairs, blankets and picnic blankets. Well-behaved and leashed pets welcome. 1 a.m.-2 p.m. Riverwalk Park, 400 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale. 954-828-5363 FREE Coral Springs Farmers’ Market. Vendors sell fresh and organic produce, herbs, flowers, baked goods and more. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. ArtWalk, 9405 NW 31st Court, Coral Springs.

FREE Music under the Stars. Concert features pop band Havoc 305. Bring chairs and blankets. Second Friday of every month. 7-9 p.m. Great Lawn, Atlantic Blvd., Pompano. pompanobeachfl.gov

14 SATURDAY 4th Annual Human Race. 5K run/walk on Hollywood Boardwalk supports humanitarian programs. 7:30 a.m. Charnow Park, 300 Garfield St., Hollywood. Register at handsonbroward.org/thehumanrace

FREE Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration.

Face painters, games, bounce houses, concert. 4-8 p.m.

ArtsPark at Young Circle, 1 N. Young Circle, Hollywood.

Family Fun Day. Interactive art session and museum exploration for ages 3 and up. $4 presale. $5 at door. 3 p.m. Coral Springs Museum of Art, 2855 Coral Springs Drive. coralspringsmuseum.org/category/events Sensory Friendly Screening. “Monster Trucks.”

The lights are up and the sound is down. Children are free to move around during show. 10 a.m. Ridge Cinema, 9200 State Road 84, Davie. Adults, $11; ages 2-12, $7.50. paragontheaters.com FREE Chess Club. Ages 5-18 can practice and play.

Participants can participate in a raffle to win a prize. 11 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. West Regional Library, 8601 W. Broward Blvd., Plantation, 33324. 954-765-1585 FREE Afternoon at the Movies. Movie and popcorn. Ages 6-11. 2-4 p.m. West Regional Library, 8601 W. Broward Blvd., Plantation, 33324. 954-765-1585 FREE Broward Shell Show. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Emma Lou Olson Civic Center, 1801 NE Sixth St., Pompano. Browardshellclub.org

15 SUNDAY Gold Coast Gunslingers. Ages 10 and up can watch a cowboy action match. $15 per person. Gate fee of $1.50 person. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Markham Park, 16001 W. State Road 84, Sunrise. goldcoastgunslingers.com Team/Family Shutterbug Photo Hunt. Nature Photography class followed by a photo hunt. Participants will take home a frame they decorate. RSVP required. $10 per team. 2:30-4:30 p.m. Fern Forest Nature Center, 201 Lyons Road S., Coconut Creek. 954-357-5198 FREE Broward Shell Show. See thousands of shells from around the world. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Emma Lou Olson Civic Center, 1801 NE Sixth St., Pompano. Browardshellclub.org

18 WEDNESDAY Food Truck Invasion. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs for a picnic. 5-9:30 p.m. Brian Piccolo Park, 9501 Sheridan St., Hollywood. foodtruckinvasion.com

19 THURSDAY Food Truck Invasion. A variety of cuisine and treats.

Bring a blanket or lawn chairs. 5-9 p.m. Quiet Waters Park, 401 S. Powerline Road, Deerfield. foodtruckinvasion.com

20 FRIDAY Kids Night at the Museum. Parents can have a

12 THURSDAY FREE Concerts in the Park. Food trucks, bounce house and live music. 6-9 p.m. Old Davie Bandshell, 6650 Griffin Road, Davie. 954-797-1166 FREE Full Moon Drum Circle. All skill levels invited to bring a drum or percussion instrument to this guided community jam session. 7-9 p.m. ArtsPark at Young Circle, 1 N. Young Circle, Hollywood.

13 FRIDAY Coconut Creek Fun Day. City provides a place for boys and girls ages 5-13 to enjoy crafts, organized play, games and more on day off school. 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. $25 Coconut Creek residents, $35 nonresidents. Community Center, 1100 Lyons Road or Recreation Complex, 4455 Sol Press Blvd., Coconut Creek. coconutcreek.net/webtrack Family Hayride and Campfire. Preregistration and prepayment required. $3.50 per person. Children 2 and under free. 7-9:30 p.m. Easterlin Park, 1000 NW 38th St., Oakland Park. 954-357-5190 FREE Flagler Food in Motion. Green market features produce, food trucks, locally produced edibles, bath and body care and more. Second Friday of every month. 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Peter Feldman Park, 310 NE Sixth St., Fort Lauderdale. facebook.com/FlaglerFoodInMotion

night out while kids enjoy games, art, pizza, popcorn and a “The Lion King.” Bring a blanket, pillow and PJs. Ages 5-12. 6-11 p.m. $35 for members, $40 for non-members. 751 SW 121st Ave., Davie. youngatartmuseum.org FREE Tunes & Trucks Concert Series. Bring lawnchairs and blankets to enjoy food trucks and music by the Soul Circus Cowboys. 6 p.m. Music at 7 p.m. Sunrise Civic Amphitheater, 10610 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Sunrise. sunrisefl.gov/tunes FREE 2017 Weston Winter Safety Expo.

Police, fire and rescue vehicles, music, entertainment and dancing, kids games and activities, a winter wonderland photo area and snow. 6-8:30 p.m. Cypress Bay High School, 18600 Vista Park Blvd., Weston. 954-389-4321 Family Hayride and Campfire. Preregistration and prepayment required. $3.50 per person. Children 2 and under free. 7-9:30 p.m. T.Y. Park, 3300 N. Park Road, Hollywood. 954-357-8811.

6-9 p.m. Quiet Waters Park, 401 S. Powerline Road, Deerfield. 954-357-5100

21 SATURDAY The Big Read. Bankura Horse sculpture activity 11 a.m.- noon. Bengali Elephant textile activity 1-2 p.m. Bro-

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» exhibits for families ZOO IN YOU Through Jan. 3. Explore the world of our inner microorganisms through interactive and bilingual exhibits and discover who our constant microbial companions are, where they live, how diverse they are, and how important they are to our personal health. Children’s Science Explorium, 300 S. Military Trail, Boca Raton.

Suggested donation $5. 561-347-3900 or scienceexplorium.org PALM BEACH WATERCOLOR SOCIETY Through Jan. 4. Latest art in public spaces juried exhibition showcases 34 pieces by 19 artists. City Library, 208 S. Seacrest Blvd., Boynton Beach. 561-7426026

tury, with a particular focus on South Florida’s national parks: Everglades, Biscayne and Dry Tortugas national parks and Big Cypress National Preserve. Coral Gables Museum, 285 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables. 305-603-8067 or coralgablesmuseum.org BEYOND THE GAME: SPORTS AND THE EVOLUTION OF SOUTH FLORIDA Through Jan. 15. Take a look at the history of South Florida through the lens of its sporting traditions. $10 for adults, $5 for children 6-12, free for children under 6. Free admission to members.

MAGICAL THINKING Through Jan. 19. Master of Fine Arts students’ work on display includes sculpture, painting, photography and other mediums.

University of Miami Art Gallery at the Wynwood Building, 2750 NW Third Ave., Suite 4, Miami. 305-284-3161

THIS LAND IS YOUR LAND Through Jan. 8. This exhibition considers America’s National Park Service as it enters its second cen-

Children’s Resources Preschool & Elementary

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

SCHOOL DIRECTORY

• Differentiated instruction to meet each child’s needs

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• Reading A-Z Online Program

• High Scope Curriculum promoting communication, problem solving and critical thinking skills

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• Super Kids Reading Program

• Nurturing, safe and friendly environment

• iPad technology/STEM Education • Art and Music Therapy

• iPad technology • 1:5 teacher to student ratios

• 1:5 teacher to student ratio • Individual Educational Plans (IEP) • Bachelor and Master degree level teachers

• Bachelor degree level teachers • Accredited by NAEYC • Awarded 5 Stars from the ELC

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FIFTEEN MINUTES AND A LIFE IN PORTRAITS Through Jan. 15. “Fifteen Minutes” features work interpreting the idea of fame and works by artists who have become celebrities themselves. “A Life In Portraits” brings together world-renowned contemporary American artists spanning five decades who have created portraits of art patron and collector Joan Quinn. Cornell Art Museum at Old School Square, 51 N. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach. $5 suggested donation. 561243-7922 or OldSchoolSquare.org DRUGS: COSTS AND CONSEQUENCES: OPENING EYES TO THE DAMAGE DRUGS CAUSE Through Jan. 16. Exhibit is designed to open eyes to the science behind drug addiction and the countless costs of drugs to individuals, American society and the world.

Museum of Discovery and Science, 401 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale. $15; ages 2-12, $13. 954-463-4629 or mods.org

YOLAH! (YOUTH OF LA HABANA) Through Jan. 5. Photographers LeRoy Hazzard and Saddi Khali take spectators around the globe to see the many facets of the African diaspora. African Heritage Cultural Arts Center, 616 NW 22nd Ave., Miami. ahcacmiami.org

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HistoryMiami, 101 W. Flagler St., Miami. historymiami.org

THE OTHER DIMENSION Through Jan. 22. New artwork by Cubanborn Miami sculptor Antuan Rodriguez explores human communication in five narratives and seven rooms. $5; free for members. Museum of Contemporary Art, 770 NE 125th St., North Miami. mocanomi.org ABOVE THE FOLD: NEW EXPRESSIONS IN ORIGAMI Through Jan. 29. Paper is transformed into dramatic sculptures, large-scale installations and conceptual works that express contemporary social, political, aesthetic and cultural dialogues. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach. Adults $15; ages 6-17, $9. 561-495-0233 or morikami.org OUR BODY: UNIVERSE WITHIN Through April 23. Artful and educational exhibit consisting of actual human bodies and organs. The bodies, specimens and organs have been preserved using a process known as polymer impregnation.

South Florida Science Center and Aquarium, 4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach. $16.95; ages 3-12, $12.95. 561-832-1988 or sfsciencecenter.org HI-TECH/LO-TECH Through May 21. Exhibit features an array of interactive technological artworks produced by contemporary South Florida artists. Young At Art Museum, 751 SW 121 Ave., Davie. $14; Broward residents, $12.

954-424-0085 or YoungAtArtMuseum.org

JANUARY 2017

12/14/16 2:10 PM

22 SUNDAY FREE Bacon Bash. Sizzlin’ afternoon of entertainment and eats raises funds for Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale and Covenant House Florida. Esplanade Park, 400 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale. 1-5 p.m. goriverwalk.com/ greater-fort-lauderdale-events/bacon-bash

FREE The Dan Barrow Memorial Bluegrass Jam. Bluegrass, folk and mountain music. Bring an instrument if you’d like, but please leave amps at home.

5-7 p.m. Fern Forest Nature Center, 201 Lyons Road S., Coconut Creek. 954-357-5295 FREE Coral Springs Farmers’ Market. Vendors sell fresh and organic produce, herbs, flowers, baked goods and more. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. ArtWalk, 9405 NW 31st Court, Coral Springs.

25 WEDNESDAY Step Afrika!. The African American dance company brings its step performance to the stage as part of the JM Family Enterprises Smart Stage Matinee Series. Lap tickets available for children under 12 months. $3-$7.20. 10 a.m. Parker Playhouse, 707 NE 8th St., Fort Lauderdale. parkerplayhouse.com

27 FRIDAY Family Hayride and Campfire. Preregistration and prepayment required. $3.50 per person. Children 2 and under free. 6-9 p.m. Tradewinds Park, 3600 W. Sample Road, Coconut Creek. 954-357-8870.

Father-Son Adventure. Cooper City residents only.

Must RSVP. $25 for dad and son; $10 each extra son.

BOGO Admission for December with this coupon exp.12/31/16

6:30-9:30 p.m. Cooper City Community Center, 9000 SW 50th Place, Cooper City. 954-434-4300, ext. 233.

28 SATURDAY FREE Rail Fun Day. Live entertainment, arts and crafts, face painting, interactive games and the final competition for Tri-Rail South Florida’s Kids Got Talent. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Tri-Rail Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport Station, 500 Gulfstream Way, Dania Beach. tri-rail.com/rail-fun-day FREE Movies in the Park. Outdoor screening of “The Secret Life of Pets.” Bring lawn chairs and blankets.

7:30 p.m. Margate Sports Complex, 1695 Banks Road, Margate. 954-972-6458 Color Fun Fest. A 1.8-mile run through colors and a festival area benefits the Just Care More Foundation, which brings extreme sports to inner-city youth. Park entrance $1.50 per person. Gates open 12:30 p.m. Central Broward Regional Park & Stadium, 3700 NW 11th Place, Lauderhill. colorfunfest5k.come/Fort-Lauderdale Survivor Island. Bring a tribe or join one to live the experience you’ve seen on TV. Closed-toe shoes required. $8 per tribe member. Free boat transportation to Deerfield Island departs from dock at 9 a.m. sharp at Pioneer Park, 217 NE 5th Ave., Deerfield Beach. 954-357-5100 FREE Chess Club. Ages 5-18 can practice and play.

Participants can participate in a raffle to win a prize. 11 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. West Regional Library, 8601 W. Broward Blvd., Plantation, 33324. 954-765-1585

EQUINE ASSISTED PSYCHOTHERAPY

Promoting mental health and personal growth, one stride at a time Call us for a free consultation!

29 SUNDAY FREE Manatees, Oh My!. Presentation, crafts and hunt while walking down the New River Trail. 10-11 a.m.

Secret Woods Nature Center, 2701 W. State Road 84, Dania Beach. 954-357-8884 FREE Celebrate the Arts Day. Interactive Graffiti Wall, musical “petting zoo,” performances from local schools and the Music Dance Academy, free face painting and more. 12-5 p.m. Weston Town Center, 1675 Market St, Weston. 954-389-4321 FREE Jamming in the Park. Bring your favorite instrument and join in an acoustic music jam. 1-4 p.m.

SPECIAL NEEDS DIRECTORY

ward County Library Young at Art Museum Branch, 751 SW 121st Ave., Davie. youngatart.com.

Mangrove Adventure Hike. Encounter wildlife and learn about the mangrove ecosystem. $3 per person. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Anne Kolb Nature Center, 751 Sheridan St., Hollywood. 954-357-5161 FREE Food Truck Invasion. Bring blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy food trucks at the Bridge Church Family Fun Fest. 5-10 p.m. The Bridge Church, 9300 Pembroke Road, Miramar. foodtruckinvasion.com

We serve: • Individuals • Camps • Couples • Groups/Teams • Families • Field Trips

954.907.6862 www.therapybarn.org w Southwest Ranches, FL

Happy New Year $50 off on weekdays and $25 on weekends for parties of 15 or more kids*

Over 11,000 Sq. Feet Complete With: • Massive Inflatables • Amazing Mazes • Free Wi-Fi and Free Coffee • Fun for all ages

10064 W Oakland Park Blvd.

Sunrise, FL 33351 954-703-1330 www.jumpzoneparty.com

jump!zone sunrise

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$2.00 of f admissio with th n is ad

*Parties must be booked by 12/31/16 and take place before end of Feb 2017. For Future Bookings Only.

Must present this Coupon. Not Valid With Any Other Offers.

PARTY PLANNER DIRECTORY

Jump!Zone is Filled with Action-Packed Fun for the Whole Family!

ZUMBA® KIDS with Terry Budebo After School Programs and Kids’ Parties We Come to Your Group Location

Temporary Airbrush Glitter Tattoos and Face Painting

Call now: 305-519-0195 terryaerobics@hotmail.com Fully insured and licensed JANUARY 2017 |

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12/14/16 2:10 PM

CERAMICS ON WHEELS

A PARTY TO REMEMBER!

WE COME TO YOU! #1 DEALS ON WHEELS

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• Plastercraft • Sun Catchers • Sand Art • Textile Art • Airbrush Tattoos • Go Green Crafts • Photo Novelties • BIRTHDAY • RESORTS • CAMPS • FESTIVALS • CORPORATE EVENTS • SCHOOLS & DAY CARE • FUNDRAISING • AFTERSCHOOL ENRICHMENT • SYNAGOGUES & CHURCHES

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954-298-3838

Best Face Painting, Glitter & Airbrush Tattoos, Music, Songs and Games 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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We have the LARGEST WE UP! WATER SLIDES in Florida. SHOW

PARTY PLANNER DIRECTORY

Now Serving Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties Candy Land

SPLASHTACULAR BIRTHDAY PARTIES! Make new friends when you party with Lolita the Orca, TV superstar Flipper, Salty the Sea Lion and all your marine animal friends. It’s the no-hassle way to give your birthday child the party of a lifetime! For reservations, call 305-365-2507 today. kage includes a party area with decorations, kid-friendly lunch, personalized Party arty p packa ostumed character visit (weather permitting), admission to all shows and ca ak ke, co exhibits and much more.

Wipeoutt Wipeo Football Challenge

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Excluding Small Bounce Houses NEW

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

JANUARY 2017

12/14/16 3:20 PM

Fourth Sunday of the month. Secret Woods Nature Center, 2701 W. State Road 84, Dania Beach. 954-357-8884

Your Year-Round FAMILY FUN Destination

30 MONDAY The Wizard of Oz: Radio Play. Classic radio drama meets live theatrical performance as part of the JM Family Enterprises Smart Stage Matinee Series. Lap tickets available for children under 12 months. $3-$7.20.

10 a.m. Amaturo Theater at Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale. browardcenter.org The Nile Project. Interact with live music that celebrates the cultures of 11 countries along the Nile River as part of the JM Family Enterprises Smart Stage Matinee Series. Lap tickets available for children under 12 months. $3-$7.20. 10:30 a.m. Parker Playhouse, 707 NE 8th St., Ft. Lauderdale. parkerplayhouse.com

MIAMI’S LARGEST LASER TAG

Come and shoot the ZOMBIES! Limited Time Only

Laser Tag Arena

PALM BEACH 1 SUNDAY FREE Something Big 2017. Join the biggest free outdoor public yoga class. All ages welcome. 10 a.m. live music, yoga at 11 a.m. at Mizner Park Amphitheatre, 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. yogajourney.com.

Great for all Ages

5 THURSDAY Hack Shack Tech Club. Club for 5th-8th-graders who like to make, tinker, design and engineer. Explore science and technology, experiment with computer programming and design your own video game. $15 members; $20 non-members. 5-7 p.m. South Florida Science Center and Aquarium, 4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach. 561-832-2026

6 FRIDAY FREE Eyes to the Skies. Explore the night sky with a giant telescope and learn about the Moon, Mars, & Venus. Ages 8 and up (with parent). 6 p.m. Sugar Sand Park, 300 S. Military Trail, Boca Raton. 561-347-3900 FREE Movies in the Park. Bring a beach chair or blanket and catch a movie on a large inflatable screen.

7925 W. 2nd Court • Hialeah, FL 33014

www.actiontownfl.com 305-647-3343

Paintball Fields

199

BEST PAINTBALL EXPERIENCE

Inflatable City

Play on all terrains shooting ffrom a window on our village ffield or wooded battlefield…

get ready for action!

PARTY PLANNER DIRECTORY

Glow In The Dark Mini Golf

PARTY PACKAGES Starting $ at

Bumper Cars Rock Climbing

Video Arcade

• Laser Tag Arena • Rock Climbing • Video Arcade • Birthday Parties • Bumper Cars

• Glow in the Dark Mini Golf • Canon Blaster • Basketball Court • Inflatable City

OPEN PLAY Sat/Sun Canon Blaster

Weekdays upon reservation JANUARY 2017 |

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12/14/16 3:20 PM

Occupational and Speech Therapy as unique as your child

Ask us about Mommy and me and infant and toddler enrichment programs.

Get results quick!

Occupational Therapy, Inc. Eva Pacchetti-D’Amaro, OTR/L Owner and Treating Therapist - Over a decade of experience!

• Indoor Playground • Birthday Parties • Private Play Dates • Mommy And Me Classes

1:1 skilled intervention

Is Your Child Struggling? gg g • Fine motor skills • Grasping • Handwriting • Tying shoes • Homework

• Gross motor skills • Crawling • Riding a bike • Speech and language • Communication

• Attention • Social skills • Behavior • Feeding • Eating

6 p.m. Ocean Avenue Amphitheatre, 129 E. Ocean Ave., Boynton Beach. 561-737-3256 Fashion, Sewing and Design. Ages 8-16 can learn how to design their own fashions. 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Sugar Sand Park, 300 S. Military Trail, Boca Raton. $60 residents; $75 non-residents. 561-347-3900 FREE Wetlands & Wildlife. Guided ¾-mile boardwalk tour of Florida’s wetland birds and ecosystems. Ages 7-adult. 8:30 a.m. Wakodahatchee Wetlands, 13026 Jog Road, Delray Beach. 561-544-8615 Fabulous Fun Friday. Special-themed activities include Chinese New Year, Popcorn Day, Dr. Seuss’s birthday, Lucky Leprechaun’s Day and more. First and third Friday of the month. Museum members, $3. Non-members, $4. 10:30 a.m. Schoolhouse Children’s Museum, 129 E. Ocean Ave., Boynton Beach. 561-742-6780

7 SATURDAY Save the Panther 5K. Run or walk to protect the Florida panther. Race registration includes T-shirt and zoo admission. $20- $95. Palm Beach Zoo, 1301 Summit Blvd., West Palm Beach. palmbeachzoo.org/save-thepanther-5k-2017 FREE Pokemon Safari. Learn about Pokémon origins in real animals, as well as Japanese myths. Then find the Pokémon (on and off screen) hiding outside.

Enrollment required. 11 a.m. Spanish River Library, 1501 Spanish River Blvd., Boca Raton. 561-393-7852 FREE Family Story Time Event. Families are invited to author Robert L. Forbes’s birthday party. This story time for ages 8 and younger will feature birthday stories, refreshments and party games. 10:30 a.m. Four Arts Children’s Library, The Society of the Four Arts, 2 Four Arts Plaza, Palm Beach. fourarts.org/event-calendar/

8 SUNDAY

954-281-5606 www.EPDTherapy.com

Come Celebrate your Birthday with Us

1425 A. East Commercial Blvd.

Oakland Park, Florida 33334

Make & Take. Magic and chemistry collide as kids create their own batch of color-changing slime. $5. 11:30 a.m. Sugar Sand Park, 300 S. Military Trail, Boca Raton.

561-347-3900 Oshogatsu New Year Celebration. Celebrate the Year of the Snake with games, customary rice-pounding,

®

ATTRACTIONS DIRECTORY

Healthy Kids Day JANUARY 6 | 3 - 6 PM

Jump, skip, and hop into the New Year with games, activities, and entertainment that will get you moving, learning and living healthier!

Learn the benefits of laughter through our comical stage performances, and release your creativity in our Art Studio.

miamichildrensmuseum.org 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.

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JANUARY 2017

12/14/16 2:07 PM

9 MONDAY FREE Youth Knitting Club. Learn the basics of knitting. Materials provided. No experience is necessary.

Enrollment required. 6 p.m. at the Boca Raton Public Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave, Boca Raton. 561-393-7852 FREE School-Age Programs: Floral Design.

Students enrolled in Kindergarten and above will learn the basics of floral design, proper use of tools, the art of flower placement and additional skills needed for any budding horticulturist. 3-4 p.m. Parent must be present.

RSVP required at 561-655-2776. Four Arts Children’s Library, The Society of the Four Arts, 2 Four Arts Plaza, Palm Beach. fourarts.org/event-calendar/

12 THURSDAY FREE Tween Book Jam. Discuss “Pip Bartlett’s Guide to Magical Creatures” by Maggie Stiefvater. Receive a free book at enrollment. 6:30 p.m. Boca Raton Public Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave, Boca Raton. 561-393-7852

13 FRIDAY Friday Night at the Museum. After-hours museum access, pizza, movies and “potion” class for ages 7-12.

6-9:30 p.m. Sugar Sand Park, 300 S. Military Trail, Boca Raton. Residents $20; non-residents $25. 561-347-3900 FREE Food Truck Invasion. Bring blankets and lawn chairs. 5-9:30 p.m. Abacoa Town Center, 1200 Town Center Drive, Jupiter. foodtruckinvasion.com FREE Movie at the Beach. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. Movie begins at 7 p.m. 100 N. Ocean Blvd., Lantana. 561-540-5034 FREE Beach Bonfire. Bring ingredients for s’mores to enjoy by the fire. Music by Ben Carter Band. 7-9 p.m.

Lake Worth Beach, 10 S. Ocean Blvd., Lake Worth. lakeworth.org/events

FREE Screen on the Green. “The Secret Life of Pets” (PG). Waterfront Commons, 101 N. Flagler Drive, West Palm Beach. wpb.org/screen-on-the-green

14 SATURDAY Father-Son Fishing Derby. For ages 6-17 and the men in their lives. All fishing equipment provided. Medals for winners, snacks and drinks for all. Wear sunscreen, bug spray. RSVP required. 10 a.m. Spanish River Library, 1501 Spanish River Blvd., Boca. Free. 561-393-7852.

FREE Family Movie Night. Bring blankets and lawn chairs for outdoor movie “The Secret Life of Pets.”

Movie at dusk. Abacoa Community Park, 1501 Frederick Small Road, Jupiter. jupiter.fl.us/649/Family-Movie-Night FREE Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Concert. Live music from the Valerie Tyson Band, T-D.O.G.G and the ReaXtion Band. 7-10 p.m. at Sanborn Square, 72 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton. 561-393-7807 Seining the Lagoon. Catch and release fish, shrimp, crabs and more in the Intracoastal Waterway behind Gumbo Limbo. Ages 10-adult. Members, $7; nonmembers, $10. Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N. Ocean Blvd., Boca Raton. 561-544-8615

SPORTS BROADCASTING CAMP IS BACK IN SOUTH FLORIDA JUNE 12-16, 2017

CAMP DIRECTORY

rice cake creating, a sado tea ceremony, hands-on calligraphy, New Year’s card-making, fortune-telling, taiko drumming, dancing, koto performances, exhibits and more. $12 in advance, $15 at gate; ages 4-10, $6 in advance, $10 at gate. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Morikami Museum & Japanese Gardens, 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach. morikami.org

15 SUNDAY FREE Sunday on the Waterfront. Live music on the West Palm Beach Waterfront. 4-7 p.m. West Palm Beach Waterfront, 100 Clematis St., West Palm Beach.

FREE SuperCar Super Show. The Grand Finale of SuperCar Week. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. West Palm Beach Waterfront, 100 Clematis St., West Palm Beach. supercarweek. com/event-info Sunshine Music Festival. Live music from 8 bands and artists. Doors open at 11:30 a.m., music starts at noon. Adult, $45-$229.95; 5 and under free. Sunshinemusicfestival.com/boca-raton

• Boys and Girls 10-18 10 18 • Make sports anchor, reporting, and play-by-play tapes • Host your own sports talk radio show • Day/Overnight sessions available

Nation’s #1 Sports Broadcasting Camp

16 MONDAY Great Escape. Experiments, outdoor exploration and more. Bring a lunch. Registration required. $25 residents; $31.25 non-residents. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sugar Sand Park, 300 S. Military Trail, Boca Raton. 561-347-3900

For more information call 800.319.0884 www.playbyplaycamps.com facebook.com/sportsbroadcastingcamps youtube.com/sportsbroadcastcamp

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

4000 NW 43rd Street Coconut Creek , FL 33073

954-326-2528

www.acts2acres.com t 2

GUITAR PIANO DRUMS BASS VOICE & MORE

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Boys & Gir ls Ages 5-18

ns in 13 Locatio rd and a w ro B , Dade es ch Counti Palm Bea

WE BRING THE NEW YORK AND LA STYLE HIP HOP TO SOUTH FLA. INCREDIBLE BIRTHDAY PARTIES AND CORPORATE EVENTS!

305-233-3555 or 954-499-7729 www.HipHopKidz.net CELEBRATING 25 SUCCESSFUL YEARS! JANUARY 2017 |

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CLASSES DIRECTORY

PRIVATE MUSIC LESSONS PRIV

THE HOTTEST AM R G O R P E C N A D IN SOUTH FLORIDA!!!

southfloridaparenting.com

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12/14/16 2:07 PM

Martin Luther King Jr Celebration. Community breakfast at Ebenezer Baptist Church Hall (200 NE 12th St., Boca), followed by a ceremony at the Martin Luther King Jr. Monument and a march to Sanborn Square at 72 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton. 7:30 a.m.- 2 p.m.

561-393-7807

20 FRIDAY FREE Wetlands & Wildlife. Guided ¾-mile boardwalk tour of Florida’s wetland birds and ecosystems. Ages 7-adult. 3 p.m. Wakodahatchee Wetlands, 13026 Jog Road, Delray Beach. 561-544-8615 FREE Fun Chefs Program. Grades K-12. Classes with Stacey Stolman will inspire your child in the culinary arts. 2:30-3:15 p.m. or 3:30-4:15 p.m. The Society of the Four Arts, 2 Four Arts Plaza, Palm Beach. Space limited; register at 561-655-2776. fourarts.org/event-calendar/ Fabulous Fun Friday. Special-themed activities include Chinese New Year, Popcorn Day, Dr. Seuss’s birthday, Lucky Leprechaun’s Day and more. First and third Friday of the month. Museum members, $3. Non-members, $4. 10:30 a.m. Schoolhouse Children’s Museum, 129 E. Ocean Ave., Boynton Beach. 561-742-6780

21 SATURDAY Pajama Jams Storytime. A rockin’ good time with stories, music and pretend play...all in your PJs! $5, includes token for carousel ride. 10 a.m. for ages 18 mos-2 years; 11 a.m. for 3-4 years. Sugar Sand Park, 300 S. Military Trail, Boca Raton. 561-347-3900 FREE Youth Gardening Club. All gardening materials provided. Enrollment required. Children attend wihtout parents. 11 a.m. Boca Raton Public Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave, Boca Raton. 561-393-7852

FREE MLK Parade and Celebration of Unity. The parade will travel north on Seacrest Blvd. from Ocean Ave. to MLK Blvd. 2-4 p.m. The Unity Day Celebration follows the parade at Sara Sims Park, 209 NW 9th Court, Boynton Beach. 561-737-3256

FREE Family Story Time Event: Frozen Pond Day. After story time, kids ages 8 and younger will have a chance to skate on “frozen ponds” in the library. Bring a pair of socks.10:30 a.m. Four Arts Children’s Library, The Society of the Four Arts, 2 Four Arts Plaza, Palm Beach. fourarts.org/event-calendar/

22 SUNDAY Sunday Family Movie. Bring the whole family for a screening of Secret Life of Pets. Rated PG. $1, includes popcorn and drink. 11 a.m. Sugar Sand Park, 300 S. Military Trail, Boca Raton. 561-347-3900

23 MONDAY Early Afternoon Explorers. “Abracadabra.” $10 residents; $12.50 non-residents. 1 p.m. (ages 6-9), 2 p.m. (ages 10-12). Sugar Sand Park, 300 S. Military Trail, Boca Raton. sugarsandpark.org

27 FRIDAY FREE Beach Bonfire. Bring ingredients for s’mores.

CLASSES DIRECTORY

Music by Uproot Hootenanny. 7-9 p.m. Lake Worth Beach, 10 S. Ocean Blvd., Lake Worth. lakeworth.org/events FREE Concert in the Park. Live music and food trucks. Leashed pets may attend. Concert is rain or shine.

7-9:30 p.m. Commons Park, 11600 Poinciana Blvd., Royal Palm Beach. 561-790-5149 Nights at the Museum. Amazing Anatomy! Crafts, activities, entertainment, exhibits, planetarium shows.

Adults, $13.95; seniors, $11.95; ages 3-12 $9.95. 6-9 p.m. South Florida Science Center and Aquarium, 4801 Dreher Trail N., West Palm Beach. sfsciencecenter.org

28 SATURDAY Seining the Lagoon. Catch and release fish, shrimp, crabs and more in the Intracoastal Waterway behind Gumbo Limbo. Ages 10-adult. Members, $7; nonmembers, $10. Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N. Ocean Blvd., Boca Raton. 561-544-8615

31 TUESDAY Gems Club. Young girls learn and grow as they discover the worlds of math, science, engineering and technology.

Pizza dinner and refreshments will be provided. For grades 3-8. $5 in advance; $7 at door. South Florida Science Center and Aquarium, 4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach. 561-832-2026

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12/14/16 2:06 PM

l a u n n

h 8t

A

SUNDAY

FEB | 26| 2017

Location: Miramar Regional Park, 16801 Miramar Parkway, Miramar, Florida

: Event Parking:

Amelia’s

Memorial Hospital Miramar, 1901 SW 172 Avenue, Miramar, Florida

:

Story

Amelia’s rare heart condition presented many challenges. “Her doctor was not ready to give up,” says Amelia’s mom.

“I just know we have a miracle in our arms and the doctors, nurses and staff at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital made this miracle happen.”

Register TODAY at

TourdeBroward.com Connect with Us #tourdebroward

Event Information: 954-905-5633 • Info@Tourdebroward.com

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Event Benefits: Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital

12/7/16 4:28 PM

The Advanced Pediatric Care Pavilion, Our New Home For Innovative Healing.

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital’s new Advanced Pediatric Care Pavilion is now open.

This marks a transformational milestone in our journey to bring the highest level of care to children who come to us in search of healing from throughout Florida a and around the world.

Spanning 213,000-square-feet, our new pavilion is located on our main ain campus and is equipped with the most advanced tools and technology available. Features eatures include: • Individual/family centered room accommodations • Play spaces for children to support the healing process • Private family lounges • Areas for meditation and healing gardens ered compassionate Our new pavilion was created to support the delivery of family-centered care that is a hallmark of all we do. Nicklaus Children’s Hospital. For Health. For Life.

3100 SW 62 Avenue, Miami, FL 33155 305-666-6511 nicklauschildrens.org

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