Deacon, who has Barth syndrome, and his family
Deacon was just 3 months old when a trip to the ER revealed the little guy was in heart failure. Maryanne Chrisant, MD, Medical Director, Pediatric Cardiac Transplant, Heart Failure and Cardiomyopathy, quickly determined he had Barth syndrome.
Fortunately, Dr. Chrisant and our cardiology team have experience with the extremely rare condition. Deacon and his family have been able to move forward with a detailed care plan.
“One year I counted there were more than 170 visits of some sort,” says mom Brandi. “In all of those moments, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital was there for our family.”
Where you go matters. In the moments that count most, trust our heart care experts.
SOUTH FLORIDA SPOTLIGHT
Staying in touch with the people, places and events in our community. 32
TEEN SCENE How to help your teen heal from a broken heart. 36
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Entertaining and noteworthy things to see and do throughout South Florida.
WORDS OF WISDOM Navigating rough waters when a playdate veers off course.
Near Naples, at Ave Maria, more is an invitation and a promise.
More full days of getting out and about, without ever getting into a car.
More shopping, golf rounds, fishing trips, and bike rides in nature.
More of the impromptu, spontaneous fun that turns up the joy in life.
And with four renowned builders and an array of home designs from the $200s, you’ve got a lengthy list of reasons to come see
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In addition to delivering some of the most fabulous weather of the year, February in South Florida marks festival and fair season. From artists and artisans to medieval musicians and manatees, this month’s selection of tri-county fairs appeal to a wide range of interests. Here are some for you and your family to explore.
With eight themed weekends including The Wizarding World’s Faire, Days of Cosplay and Pirate Invasion, the Florida Renaissance Festival features non-stop family entertainment every Saturday and Sunday through March 23. Guests can peruse merchandise from more than 100 merchants, watch unique stage performances, cheer for heroic knights during jousts, play games of chance and skill and take a ride on a gigantic rocking horse. The event takes place at Quiet Waters Park at 401 S. Powerline Rd. in Deerfield Beach. Visit www.ren-fest.com.
The Orange Blossom Festival, Parade & Rodeo has been a mainstay in the Davie community for nearly ninety years. Taking place this year from February 24-26, the event features a parade and festival at Bamford Sports Complex and a rodeo at Bergeron Rodeo Grounds. Activities include arts and crafts, live music, vendors and entertainment for all ages. For additional information, call 954-797-1181 or visit www.davie-fl.gov.
Coconut Grove Arts Festival
With a focus on world-class art, this three-day festival – February 18-20 –features a showcase of more than 280 internationally-recognized artists, culinary displays, live performances and kid-friendly art activities and programs where kids can make their own masterpiece to take home. This annual event takes place at 2700 S. Bayshore Dr. in Miami. For information, go to www.cgaf.com.
The South Beach Wine & Food Festival has a little something for everyone. For adults, there are wine seminars, cooking demonstrations, dinners and more. For the kids, there are special activities like the Kids Baking Master Class and a Family Ice Cream Social, both hosted by pastry chef and television personality, Duff Goldman. The event takes place from February 23-26 in Miami Beach. To learn more, visit www.sobewff.org.
Celebrating Florida’s local waterways and sea cows, this free, family-friendly event from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, February 4, includes educational opportunities, live music, face painting, caricature portraits, giant sea-life puzzles and a Kids Fun Zone. ManateeFest takes place at Manatee Lagoon, 600 N. Flagler Dr. in West Palm Beach. For more information, visit www.visitmanateelagoon.com/ManateeFest.
West Palm Beach Seafood Festival
Combining three festivals in one — the West Palm Beach Seafood Festival, Palm Beach Marine Flea Market and Palm Beach Car Swap Meet — this event touts a variety of seafood, nautical vendors, unique vehicle displays, live music, arts and crafts and more. The two-day event, taking place February 11-12, is located at The South Florida Fair Grounds, 9067 Southern Blvd. in West Palm Beach. Visit www.westpalmseafoodfestival.com.
Valentine’s Day is traditionally a time for couples to express their love for one another, but it is also a great chance to show your children how much you love them too. While children typically exchange cards and small gifts on Valentine’s Day, this year try starting some fun new traditions for your family.
How Sweet It Is. Just once a year it can’t hurt to have dessert before your meal. Offer cake or ice cream first and let the kids indulge without having to eat their veggies first.
Heart to Heart. After your dessert-first dinner, serve up some fun Valentine’s Day themed meals. Heart-shaped pancakes or heart-shaped pizza are both fun and easy. Get the kids involved in the kitchen to make special memories.
Date Night. Many people go on a date with their significant other to celebrate Valentine’s Day but consider taking your child on a “date” to a place of their choice. If you have more than one child, each parent can pair off or take turns so all kids get to participate.
Cuddle Up. If going out isn’t for your family, set aside time to snuggle on the couch and watch a movie with those you love. Make popcorn, put on some comfortable pajamas and spend some time together. To make it festive, add red sprinkles to the popcorn and choose movies that have a love theme.
Declare Your Love. The simplest way to show others you care is to tell them. Have each family member state one reason why they love the others. Or, write them down, read them as a group and tuck them away in a special envelope and pull them out year after year to reread them.
Empathy is the ability to put yourself in another’s shoes. It’s similar to sympathy but with an important difference. To sympathize is to care about and understand the suffering experienced by another. When you sympathize with someone, you feel sorry for them. Sympathy gives you the ability to say the right thing to comfort another.
But, empathy goes a step further. It’s the ability to experience or relive the feelings of another. When you empathize, rather than focusing on your own feelings about the other person’s situation, you’re able to focus on the emotions of that person. When you empathize, the other person can tell you’re really listening to them. Furthermore, empathy increases your ability and likelihood to help the person with whom you empathize.
According to neuroscientists, the vast majority of us are born with the brain wiring necessary to empathize. Psychopaths make up about 1% of the population and are the exception, according to a 2013 study by neuroscientists at the University of Chicago and the University of New Mexico. Still, among the 99% of us who are born with this capacity, most don’t fully develop or use it to its potential.
Empathy is beneficial in many ways, according to Katherin Sears, Ph.D., in Why Empathy Benefits Everyone. It provides us the ability to act kindly toward others, forgive family and friends, and bond with others over their ups and downs. Without the ability to empathize, it would be difficult, if not impossible, to form and maintain friendships. In fact, we’d have difficulty getting along with others at school or work and in society.
Satya Nadella, the CEO of Microsoft, in an interview with CBS Good Morning, revealed another vital benefit of empathy. Without it, she says, “there is no way we could innovate.” This makes a lot of sense. Although some people would still have the desire to innovate for personal gain, innovation would be far more limited. People would lack the motivation to innovate to help others unless it offered a reward for themselves. The field of medicine is a perfect example. Many strides have been made in medicine over the decades, much of which has resulted from human empathy.
Experts believe, based on a large body of evidence, that empathy can be shaped. Not only can kids learn to empathize better, but so can adults. By practicing the following as a family, you can foster your, and your child’s, ability to empathize.
Active listening. This is a crucial component of empathy. Practice listening to each other and trying to understand the other’s perspective. Active listening
BY KATHRYN STREETER
Today, a bird slowly died in front of my children. The impact against our sliding glass doors was deafening. The kids and I quickly abandoned our current activities in our rush to discover that a bright crimson cardinal had struck the glass. It now lay helpless in the grass. It’s not easy to find the right words or actions in these instances. Here are five tips on handling sensitive situations.
1. Be honest and don’t construct a cover-up. What’s been seen can’t be unseen. I watched, helpless to intervene or make my kids unsee this tragedy. The suffering we were witnessing elicited, “Mom, let’s help it!” “Should we bring it inside and nurse it?” “What do we do?” “Poor bird.” Our 12-year-old’s large eyes were brimming with tears. Her younger brother couldn’t look away. I wanted as badly as my kids to watch this bird miraculously fly away. But, the cardinal grew still and we, silent, mourning the loss of an innocent bird.
2. Show sensitivity and respect for their particular attachments. Unlike adults, children fall in love fearlessly, without baggage. Maybe it’s toys, as much or more than the people surrounding them, they cherish. In the case of my children, it was their stuffed animals — each complete with name and personality. As enjoyable as it was for me to witness the creative powers at work in my children’s play, I knew that the depth of attachment would create a storm of trouble if any of these animal kingdom favorites were lost. After all, these were real as flesh and blood friends in my children’s world. On many occasions, we did come close to losing a stuffed friend. At the grocery store, in the airplane, on the sidewalk or silently falling out of the stroller. In every instance, the look of shock and pain in the affected child’s eyes was a small step into the brutal world, where fierce affection is often accompanied by sorrow, a pain equal to love.
3. Validate their emotions. It’s not fair! My children had never before seen the bird that died in front of them. Yet, its death prompted a flood of tender-heartedness and compassion. I heartily agreed with them, that what happened wasn’t fair. But life isn’t either, something more appropriate to discuss later after emotions had settled down. My present task was to help them process and understand how to grieve, recover and bravely move on. I wanted them to be unafraid to continue loving, to grow attached again and to open up to profound feelings and potentially, hurt.
4. Provide closure appropriate to meet the situation. Together, we slowly opened the glass patio door and squatted down around the bird. With the utmost care, we gingerly scooped it into a shoebox. We headed to nearby woods with the box. I was last in the procession, with my husband in the lead, carrying the coffin. We took turns shoveling the earth to create a tiny resting place. Our daughter gently turned the box on its side. The quiet bird rolled snug in the tight, humble grave. We said, “Goodbye, bird. It’s not your fault. You didn’t deserve to die.”
5. Project a posture of steady hope. “It’s good we could give the poor bird a proper burial,” our daughter whispered. It was good. Though it required great effort, it was the right thing to do. I was grateful she recognized this. At 12, she embraces life with open arms but along the way, she will feel life’s unfairness cut deeply when bad things happen to the undeserving, as she witnessed in this bird’s death.
includes paying close attention to body language and facial expressions, so you can better understand the other person. It also requires refraining from interrupting. Parents’ modeling of active listening with their kids is particularly crucial to kids’ development of this skill.
Give back. Talk with your kids about the experiences, feelings and needs of those who are less fortunate. Consider various forms of adversity, such as kids with terminal illnesses, the homeless, poor families and those in nursing homes. Ask your kids open-ended questions. Have them consider how it feels to be in those other people’s shoes. Then make a plan with your kids to help out in some way.
Commonalities. Despite the ability to empathize, studies have found people are often less empathetic toward those of other races or who are stereotyped in some way. Consider the things you have in common with those who are different and talk about these commonalities with your child. Also, ask your kids what they might have in common with someone of another ethnicity or race.
Lose yourself in fiction. It’s a great way to experience and understand another, even though the characters are fictitious. This will improve your ability to empathize in real-life situations. It’s a great way to teach kids empathy, too. Children’s books commonly have characters faced with adversity or dealing with challenging situations.
Practice reading faces. People often don’t share what they’re feeling or experiencing. Yet, it’s often written all over their faces. Pay attention to people’s expressions and try to understand what they’re feeling.
Look for opportunities to care. Every day there are people all around us in need. So, set an example for your kids. If an elderly person is struggling to load heavy groceries into their car, quickly put yourself in their shoes. Then, offer to help. Also, have your kids practice looking for ways to care (while also adhering to safety rules with strangers).
Share in excitement and joy. Empathy isn’t only about understanding people’s downs. It’s also the ability to share in their happiness. Regardless of how busy you are, when your child is excited about something, take a moment to share in your child’s enthusiasm. Likewise, share your experience with your child when something brings you great joy.
ABUNDANT LIFE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 1494 Banks Rd., Margate 954-979-2665 www.alcaeagles.com Grades: PK-11
ALAZHAR SCHOOL 7201 W. Mcnab Rd., Tamarac 954-722-1555 www.alazharschool.net Grades: PK-8
ALL SAINTS CATHOLIC SCHOOL
10900 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Sunrise 954-742-4842 www.allsaintscatholicschool.net Grades: K-8
AMERICAN HERITAGE
12200 W. Broward Blvd., Plantation 954-472-0022 www.ahschool.com Grades: PK-12
ANNUNCIATION SCHOOL
3751 SW 39 St., West Park 954-989-8287 www.annun.org Grades: PK-8
APPLE TREE MONTESSORI SCHOOL
6301 SW 160 Ave., Southwest Ranches 954-252-9250 www.appletreemont.com Grades: PK-8
ARCHBISHOP MCCARTHY HIGH SCHOOL
5451 S. Flamingo Rd., Southwest Ranches 954-434-8820 www.mccarthyhigh.net Grades: 9-12
BEACON HILL SCHOOL
7600 Davie Road Ext., Hollywood 954-963-2600 www.beaconhillschool.com Grades: PK-8
BETH EMET SCHOOL
4807 S. Flamingo Rd., Cooper City 954-680-1882 www.bethemetschool.org Grades: K-7
BETHANY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
615 SE Ninth St., Fort Lauderdale 954-522-2554 www.bcsftl.org Grades: PK-8
BETHLEHEM JUNIOR ACADEMY
6855 W. Commercial Blvd., Tamarac 954-597-9200 Grades: K-8
BRAUSER MAIMONIDES ACADEMY
5300 SW 40 Ave., Fort Lauderdale 954-989-6886
www.brausermaimonides.org Grades: PK-8
CALVARY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 2401 W. Cypress Creek Rd., Fort Lauderdale 954-905-5100 www.ccaeagles.org Grades: PK-12
CARDINAL GIBBONS HIGH SCHOOL 2900 NE 47 St., Fort Lauderdale 954-491-2900 www.cghsfl.org Grades: 9-12
CHAMINADE MADONNA COLLEGE PREPARATORY 500 E. Chaminade Dr., Hollywood 954-989-5150 www.cmlions.org Grades: 9-12
CHRISTI ACADEMY / STEPSS ACADEMY 3495 N. Hiatus Rd., Ste. 100, Sunrise 954-749-6869 www.stepssacademy.com Grades: K-12
COOPER CITY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 5201 S. Flamingo Rd., Cooper City 954-680-0850 www.coopercitychristian.com Grades: K-12
ELITE ACADEMY SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE 3970 NW 21 Ave., Oakland Park 954-972-7184 www.easeagles.com Grades: 5-12
FAITH BAPTIST ACADEMY 6950 Royal Palm Blvd., Margate 954-974-2504 www.fbcmargate.com Grades: PK-12
FIRST BAPTIST ACADEMY 2700 N. Palm Ave., Cooper City 954-404-7706 www.fbcbroward.com Grades: K-12
FORT LAUDERDALE PREPARATORY SCHOOL 3275 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Fort Lauderdale 954-485-7500 www.flps.com Grades: PK-12
FUVIS LEARNING CENTER 110 NE 51 St., Oakland Park 954-530-4870 www.fuvisclc.net Grades: PK-12
GLADES CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 400 Lakeview Dr., Coral Springs 954-755-6405 www.gladeschristian.com Grades: K-8
HEBREW ACADEMY COMMUNITY SCHOOL 1500 N. State Road 7, Margate 954-978-6341 www.hebrewacademy.org Grades: PK-8
HIGHLANDS CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 501 NE 48 St., Pompano Beach 954-421-1747 www.highlandschristian.org Grades: PK-12
JEWISH ACADEMY 5100 Sheridan St., Hollywood 954-457-3899 www.thejewishacademy.us Grades: PK-8
LIGHTHOUSE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 801 NE 34 Ct., Oakland Park 954-564-8950 www.lcaofbroward.com Grades: 2-12
LIGHTHOUSE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 2331 NE 26 Ave., Pompano Beach 954-941-7501 www.lcsmariners.com Grades: K-8
LITTLE FLOWER MONTESSORI SCHOOL 519 NE 26 St., Wilton Manors 954-565-8205 www.littleflowermontessori.org Grades: PK-6
MADELAINE HALMOS ACADEMY 1315 W. Broward Blvd., Fort Lauderdale 954-463-8772 www.jackandjillcenter.org Grades: K-5
MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS Catholic School 5980 University Dr., Parkland 954-323-8012 www.mhocrc.org Grades: K-8
MESIVTA OF CORAL SPRINGS 1730 N. University Dr., Coral Springs 954-464-0416 www.mesivtacs.com Grades: 9-11
MONTESSORI ACADEMY 19200 Pines Blvd., Pembroke Pines 954-435-4622 www.montessori-academy.org Grades: PK-8
MONTESSORI INSTITUTE OF BROWARD 12425 Orange Dr., Davie 954-472-9620 www.montessoriinstituteofbroward.com Grades: PK-6
MOUNT OLIVET SEVENTH-DAY Adventist School 3013 NW 11 St., Fort Lauderdale 954-792-6010 www.mojacademy.org Grades: PK-8
NSU UNIVERSITY SCHOOL 3375 SW 75 Ave., Davie 954-262-4506 www.uschool.nova.edu Grades: PK1-12
HOCHBERG LOWER SCHOOL (K-5) 412 SW 11th Street Hallandale Beach, FL 33009 954.299.3600
NEW LIFE PREPARATORY ACADEMY
2111 NW Second St., Pompano Beach 954-851-6608 www.newlifeprep.org Grades: 9-12
NORTH BROWARD PREPARATORY SCHOOL
7600 Lyons Rd., Coconut Creek 954-247-0011 www.nbps.org Grades: PK3-12
OUR LADY QUEEN OF MARTYRS SCHOOL 2785 SW 11 Ct., Fort Lauderdale 954-583-8112 www.olqmfl.com Grades: PK-8
OUR SAVIOR LUTHERAN SCHOOL 8001 NW Fifth St., Plantation 954-370-2161 www.oslplantation.school Grades: PK-8
PARKRIDGE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
5600 Coral Ridge Dr., Coral Springs 954-346-0236 www.parkridgeca.com Grades: PK-8
PARKWAY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
1200 S Flamingo Rd., Davie 954-424-6425 www.pcs-fl.net Grades: PK-8
PHYL’S ACADEMY PREPARATORY SCHOOL 7205 Royal Palm Blvd., Margate 954-731-7524 www.phylsprep.com Grades: K-12
PINE CREST SCHOOL 1501 NE 62 St., Fort Lauderdale 954-492-4100 www.pinecrest.edu Grades: PK-12
PINEY GROVE BOYS ACADEMY 4699 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Lauderdale Lakes 954-735-1470 www.pineygroveacademy.org Grades: K-11
POINT OF GRACE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 3610 SW 48 Ave., Hollywood 954-649-0145 www.pointofgracechristianacademy.com Grades: K-12
POSNACK JEWISH DAY SCHOOL 5810 S. Pine Island Rd., Davie 954-583-6100 www.posnackschool.org Grades: K-12
POTENTIAL CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 12401 Stirling Rd., Cooper City 954-434-1550 www.ilovepca.com Grades: PK-8
RANDAZZO SCHOOL
2251 NW 36 Ave., Coconut Creek 954-968-1750 www.randazzoschool.net Grades: K-12
RHEMA WORD CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 4850 N. State Road 7, Lauderdale Lakes 954-781-8680 www.rwcalions.org Grades: K-12
ROHR BAIS CHAYA ACADEMY 8100 N. University Dr., Tamarac 954-788-8781 www.baischaya.com Grades: 9-12
SALAH TAWFIK ELEMENTARY AND MIDDLE 5455 NW 108 Ave., Sunrise 954-213-8897 www.stemschool.net Grades: PK-8
SHA’AREI BINA TORAH ACADEMY FOR GIRLS 2907 Taylor St., Hollywood 954-927-5544 Grades: 6-12
SHERIDAN HILLS CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 3751 Sheridan St., Hollywood 954-966-7995 www.shcssharks.com Grades: PK-12
ST. AMBROSE CATHOLIC SCHOOL
363 SE 12 Ave., Deerfield Beach 954-427-2226 www.stambrosecs.org Grades: PK3-8
ST. ANDREW CATHOLIC SCHOOL
9990 NW 29 St., Coral Springs 954-753-1280 www.standrewscatholicschool.com Grades: PK-8
ST. ANTHONY CATHOLIC SCHOOL 820 NE Third St., Fort Lauderdale 954-467-7747 www.saintanthonyschoolfl.org Grades: PK-8
ST. BARTHOLOMEW CATHOLIC SCHOOL
8003 Miramar Pkwy., Miramar 954-431-5253 www.stbartschool.org Grades: PK-8
ST. BERNADETTE CATHOLIC SCHOOL 7450 Stirling Rd., Hollywood 954-432-7022 www.saintbernadettefl.org Grades: PK-8
ST. BONAVENTURE CATHOLIC SCHOOL 1301 SW 136 Ave., Davie 954-476-5200 www.stbonaventurechurch.com Grades: PK-8
ST. COLEMAN CATHOLIC SCHOOL 2250 SE 12 St., Pompano Beach 954-942-3500 www.stcoleman.org Grades: PK-8
ST. DAVID CATHOLIC SCHOOL 3900 S. University Dr., Davie 954-472-7086 www.saintdavid.org Grades: PK-8
ST. GREGORY THE GREAT SCHOOL 200 N. University Dr., Plantation 954-473-8169 www.saintgreg.org Grades: PK-8
ST. HELEN CATHOLIC SCHOOL 3033 NW 33 Ave., Lauderdale Lakes 954-739-7094 www.sthelencatholicchurch.net Grades: PK-8
ST. MARK THE EVANGELIST CATHOLIC SCHOOL 5601 S. Flamingo Rd., Southwest Ranches 954-434-3887 www.stmarkparish.org Grades: PK-8
ST. MARK’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL 1750 E. Oakland Park Blvd., Fort Lauderdale 954-563-4508 www.saintmarks.com Grades: PK-8
ST. THOMAS AQUINAS HIGH SCHOOL 2801 SW 12 St., Fort Lauderdale 954-581-0700 www.aquinas-sta.org Grades: 9-12
STEEPLE ON THE BEACH MONTESSORI SCHOOL 1920 SE 4th St., Deerfield Beach 954-421-9220 www.sotbmontessori.com
STERLING ACADEMY
950 S. Pine Island Rd., Plantation 866-502-1050 www.sterling.academy Grades: 6-12
SUMMIT-QUESTA MONTESSORI SCHOOL
5451 Davie Rd., Davie 954-584-3466 www.summitquesta.com Grades: PK-8
THE SAGEMONT SCHOOL - LOWER SCHOOL 1570 Sagemont Way, Weston 954-384-5454 www.sagemont.com Grades: PK-5
THE SAGEMONT SCHOOL - UPPER SCHOOL 2585 Glades Circle, Weston 954-389-2454 www.sagemont.com Grades: 6-12
Parenting Place offers classes for parents, caregivers, and children to learn, play, and grow together. These exciting classes will take place on the second floor just inside NSU University School’s Preschool.
Amazing Newborn (3 – 6M & 6 – 12M) I 8 week program
Terrific Toddler (12 – 18M) I 8 week program
Children will participate in play-based activities that support cognitive and social development. This remarkable series will provide the foundation for learning, play, growth, and development.
Mini Maestros (2 – 4 year olds) I 8 week program
During this comprehensive artist series, children will explore the works of a variety of artists. Different art mediums and techniques will be explored during this series. (Dress for mess!)
Full STEAM Ahead! (3 – 4 year olds) I 8 week program
This program is designed to encourage children to think outside the box! They will engage in a variety of challenges, experiences, and collaborative learning opportunities using science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematic skills.
Once Upon a Preschool (2 – 4 year olds) I 8 week program
This literacy-based learning series will transport children through the power of reading and story-telling. Themed activities and experiences will be sure to create a love of reading for years to come.
Scan the QR code to learn more about our Parenting Place classes or contact Amber Ryan at ambermv@nova.edu.
NSU University School is a private, college preparatory school educating students in Preschool (starting at 18 months) – Grade 12. To learn more about NSU University School, visit www.uschool.nova.edu.
TRINITY LUTHERAN ACADEMY 110 SW 11 St., Fort Lauderdale 954-463-7471 www.tlaftl.org Grades: K-8
WESTLAKE PREPARATORY SCHOOL 8950 Stirling Rd., Cooper City 954-236-2300 www.westlakeschool.com Grades: K-12
WEST BROWARD ACADEMY 5281 Coconut Creek Parkway, Margate 754-702-2320 www.westbrowardacademy.com Grades: PK-8
WESTMINSTER ACADEMY 5601 N. Federal Hwy., Fort Lauderdale 954-771-4600 www.wa.edu Grades: PK-12
ADVENT LUTHERAN SCHOOL 300 E. Yamato Rd., Boca Raton 561-395-3631 www.adventschoolboca.org Grades: PK-8
AMERICAN HERITAGE SCHOOLBOCA/DELRAY 6200 Linton Blvd., Delray Beach 561-495-7272 www.ahschool.com Grades: PK-12
BOCA PREP INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL 10333 Diego Dr. S., Boca Raton 561-852-1410 www.bocaprep.net Grades: PK-12
BOCA RATON CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 470 NW Fourth St., Boca Raton 561-391-2727 www.bocachristian.org Grades: PK3-12
BRIDGEPREP ACADEMY OF PALM BEACH 9085 Happy Hollow Rd., Delray Beach 561-406-0709 www.bridgepreppalmbeach.com Grades: K-8
DAUGHTER OF ZION JUNIOR ACADEMY 250 NW Third Ave., Delray Beach 561-243-0715 www.dozja.com Grades: PK-8
EMERGING MINDS MONTESSORI ACADEMY 9087 Glades Rd., Boca Raton 561-487-3535 www.emmontessori.com Grades: PK-8
GARDEN OF THE SAHABA ACADEMY 3100 NW Fifth Ave., Boca Raton 561-395-3011
www.assahaba.org Grades: PK-12
GRANDVIEW PREPARATORY SCHOOL 336 NW Spanish River Blvd., Boca Raton 561-416-9737 www.grandviewprep.net Grades: PK-12
KATZ HILLEL DAY SCHOOL OF BOCA RATON 21011 95 Ave. S., Boca Raton 561-470-5000 www.hilleldayschool.org Grades: PK-8
OLYMPUS INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY 8411 W. Palmetto Park Rd., Boca Raton 561-900-5323 www.oi.academy Grades: K-8
PINE CREST SCHOOL AT BOCA RATON 2700 St. Andrews Blvd., Boca Raton 561-852-2800 www.pinecrest.edu Grades: PK-12
SALT ACADEMY 7700 W. Camino Real, Ste. 100, Boca Raton 561-235-5775 www.saltacademy.org Grades: K-12
SCORE ACADEMY 900 Broken Sound Pkwy., Boca Raton 561-907-8607 www.score-academy.com Grades: K-12
SOMERSET ACADEMY BOCA 333 SW Fourth Ave., Boca Raton 561-393-1091 www.somersetboca.com Grades: K-8
SPANISH RIVER CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 2400 Yamato Rd., Boca Raton 561-994-5006 www.spanishriverchristianschool.com Grades: PK-8
SPORTS LEADERSHIP ARTS & MANAGEMENT (SLAM) BOCA 22500 Hammock St., Boca Raton 561-299-6969 www.slamboca.com Grades: 6-12
ST. ANDREWS SCHOOL 3900 Jog Rd., Boca Raton 561-210-2000 www.saintandrews.net Grades: PK-12
ST. JOHN PAUL II ACADEMY 4001 N. Military Trail, Boca Raton 561-314-2100 www.sjpii.net Grades: 9-12
ST. JUDE CATHOLIC SCHOOL 21689 Toledo Rd., Boca Raton 561-392-9160
www.saintjudeschool.org Grades: PK-8
ST. PAUL LUTHERAN SCHOOL 701 W. Palmetto Park Rd., Boca Raton 561-395-8548 www.cyberfalcon.com Grades: PK-8
TRINITY DELRAY LUTHERAN SCHOOL 400 N. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach 561-278-1737 www.trinitydelray.org Grades: PK-8
UNITY SCHOOL 101 NW 22 St., Delray Beach 561-276-4414 www.unityschool.com Grades: PK-8
WALDORF SCHOOL OF PALM BEACH 2450 NW 5th Ave., Boca Raton 561-394-7674 www.waldorfschoolpalmbeach.org Grades: PK-8
BELEN JESUIT PREPARATORY SCHOOL 500 SW 127 Ave., Miami 305-223-8600 www.belenjesuit.org Grades: 6-12
CARROLLTON SCHOOL OF THE SACRED HEART 3747 Main Highway, Miami 305-446-5673 www.carrollton.org Grades: PK-12
CENTNER ACADEMY 1911 NE Miami Ct., Miami 305-576-6070 www.centneracademy.com Grades: PK-8
CHARTER SCHOOL AT WATERSTONE 855 Waterstone Way, Homestead 305-248-6206 www.charterschoolatwaterstone.com/ admissionscsw Grades: K-5
CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS HIGH SCHOOL 3000 SW 87 Ave., Miami 305-223-5650 www.columbushs.com Grades: 9-12
COLEMAN CARROLL HIGH SCHOOL 10300 SW 167 Ave., Miami 305-388-6700 www.colemancarroll.org Grades: 9-12
CONCHITA ESPINOSA ACADEMY AND CONSERVATORY OF THE ARTS 12975 SW Sixth St., Miami 305-699-4993 www.conchitaespinosa.com Grades: PK-12
DADE CHRISTIAN 6601 NW 167 St., Miami 305-822-7690 www.dadechristian.org Grades: PK-12
DIVINE SAVIOR ACADEMY 10311 NW 58 St., Doral 305-597-4545 www.divinesavioracademy.com Grades: PK-12
DORAL INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY of Math & Science 6700 NW 104 Ave., Doral 786-270-2088 www.doralinternational.org/admissions Grades: K-8
EVERGLADES PREPARATORY Academy 2251 E. Mowry Dr., Homestead 786-601-1969 www.evergladesprep.com/admissions Grades: 6-12
FLORIDA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 4200 SW 89 Ave., Miami 305-226-8152 www.floridachristian.org Grades: PK2-12
FUSION ACADEMY MIAMI 9130 S. Dadeland Blvd., Miami 305-831-0041 www.fusionacademy.com Grades: 6-12
GLADEVIEW CHRISTIAN SCHOOL MIAMI 12201 SW 26 St., Miami 305-551-6143 www.gladeviewschool.org Grades: PK-8
GOOD SHEPHERD CATHOLIC SCHOOL 14187 SW 72 St., Miami 305-385-7002 www.good-shepherd-school.org Grades: PK3-8
GULLIVER PREP Multiple campuses, Miami 305-666-6333 www.gulliverprep.org Grades: PK-12
IMMACULATA-LA SALLE HIGH SCHOOL 3601 S. Miami Ave., Miami 305-854-2334 www.ilsroyals.com Grades: 9-12
KILLIAN OAKS ACADEMY 10545 SW 97 Ave., Miami 305-274-2221 www.killianoaksacademy.com Grades: PK-12
MIAMI CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 200 NW 109 Ave., Miami 305-221-7754 www.miamichristian.org Grades: K-12
MIAMI COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL 601 NE 197 St., Miami 305-779-7200 www.miamicountryday.org Grades: PK-12
MONSIGNOR EDWARD PACE HIGH SCHOOL
15600 NW 32 Ave., Miami Gardens 305-623-7223 www.pacehs.com Grades: 9-12
OUR LADY OF LOURDES 5525 SW 84 St., Miami 305-667-1623 www.olla.org Grades: 9-12
OUR LADY OF LOURDES PARISH SCHOOL 1400 SW 112 St. Miami 305-386-8446 www.ololjaguars.org Grades: PK-8
PALM GLADES PREPARATORY ACADEMY 22655 SW 112 Ave., Homestead www.palmgladesacademy.com Grades: 6-12
PALMER TRINITY SCHOOL 8001 SW 184 St., Miami 305-251-2230 www.palmertrinity.org Grades: 6-12
RANSOM EVERGLADES SCHOOL (Middle) 2045 S. Bayshore Dr., Coconut Grove (Upper) 3575 Main Highway, Coconut Grove www.ransomeverglades.org Grades: 6-12
RIVIERA SCHOOLS (Day School) 6800 Nervia St., Coral Gables (Prep School) 9775 SW 87 Ave., Miami www.rivieraschools.com Grades: PK-5 and 6-12
SCHECK HILLEL COMMUNITY SCHOOL 19000 NE 25th Ave., North Miami Beach 305-931-2831 www.ehillel.org Grades: PK-12
SHELTON ACADEMY 4001 NW 97 Ave., Doral 305-599-9967 www.sheltonacademyschools.com Grades: PK-12
ST. BRENDAN HIGH SCHOOL 2950 SW 87 Ave., Miami 305-223-5181 www.stbrendanhigh.org Grades: 9-12
ST. THERESA CATHOLIC SCHOOL 2701 Indian Mound Trail 305-446-1738 www.stscg.org Grades: PK-8
ST. THOMAS THE APOSTLE CATHOLIC SCHOOL 7303 SW 64 St., Miami 305-661-8591 http://school.stamiami.org Grades: PK-8
SUMMERVILLE ADVANTAGE ACADEMY 11575 SW 243 St., Homestead 305-253-2123 www.summervilleadvantage academy.com/admissions Grades: K-5
THE CUSHMAN SCHOOL 592 NE 60 St., Miami 305-757-1966 www.cushmanschool.org Grades PreK-12
WESTMINSTER CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 6855 SW 152 St., Palmetto Bay 305-871-9226 www.wcsmiami.org Grades: PK-12
WESTWOOD CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 5801 SW 120 Ave., Miami 305-274-3380 www.westwoodchristian.org Grades: PK-12
XCEED PREPARATORY ACADEMY 9350 S. Dixie Highway, Miami www.xceedprep.org Grades: 6-12
BROWARD COUNTY
AEF SCHOOLS 4650 SW 61 Ave., Davie 954-581-8222 www.aefschools.com Grades: K-12
AMERICAN PREPARATORY ACADEMY 4850 S. Pine Island Rd., Davie 954-434-8936 www.apaacademy.org Grades: K-12
ATLANTIS ACADEMY 11411 NW 56 Dr., Coral Springs 954-752-7571 https://coralsprings.atlantisacademy.com Grades: K-12
BCC ACADEMY Locations in Pompano Beach and Dania Beach www.bcckids.org/bccacademy
CENTER ACADEMY 4700 Riverside Dr., Ste. 100, Coral Springs 954-575-1231 www.centeracademy.com Grades: 5-12
DIVERSE ABILITIES
11850 State Rd. 84, Davie 954-401-2024 www.teachdiverseabilities.com
DIVINE ACADEMY 3347 N. University Dr., Hollywood 954-499-4638 www.divineacademy.com Grades: 5-12
LITTLE FLOWERS OF HOPE 2645 Executive Park Dr., Ste. 158, Weston 305-298-9787 www.littleflowersofhope.com Grades: K4-12
ATLANTIS ACADEMY PALM BEACHES 1950 Prairie Rd., West Palm Beach 561-642-3100
https://palmbeaches.atlantisacademy.com Grades: K-12
UNICORN VILLAGE ACADEMY 21100 Ruth & Baron Coleman Blvd., Ste. 200, Boca Raton 561-826-9156 www.unicornvillageacademy.com Grades: 8-12
ATLANTIS ACADEMY MIAMI 9600 SW 107th Ave., Miami 305-271-9771
https://miami.atlantisacademy.com Grades: K-12
CARRIE BRAZER CENTER 4 AUTISM 7530 Sunset Dr., Miami 305-271-8790 www.cbc4autism.org Grades: PK-12
MCGLANNAN SCHOOL 10770 SW 84 St., Miami 305-274-2208 www.mcglannanschool.com Grades: 1-8
THE ROIG ACADEMY 8000 SW 112 St., Miami 305-235-1313 www.roigacademy.com Grades: PK-8
VANGUARD SCHOOL OF COCONUT GROVE 3939 Main Highway, Coconut Grove 305-445-7992 www.vanguardschool.com
BRIGHT & SMART
Locations throughout South Florida www.brightandsmart.com
HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER 5200 N. Federal Hwy., Fort Lauderdale 954-488-2222 www.huntingtonhelps.com
help ages 18 and older with special needs become selfsufficient through life skills, employment training, with individualized coaching and guidance as well as offer them a place to interact and gain social skills all while cre ating an experience where it’s fun yet educational to achieve self-determination in a variety of areas.
et her some ice cream!”
If I had a dollar for how many times I heard that after my daughter’s devastating breakup, we could buy out the whole grocery store freezer department. News flash, ice cream doesn’t always cut it. Actually, it’s possible ice cream is never the answer for a broken heart.
My daughter fell in love with her best friend at sixteen. Their relationship was intense. They brought out the best and worst in each other. It ended ugly. Months later, they still aren’t even able to talk to each other because the hurt is so raw. She lost a boyfriend, but she also lost her dearest friend and favorite person.
She didn’t eat. She didn’t sleep. Showering took a huge effort that she couldn’t muster up for days at a time. All she did was cry. Our whole household was in turmoil. I took her to therapists and psychiatrists. She ended up in the ER because dehydration and exhaustion triggered a migraine that just wouldn’t let up. We were all barely holding on, her pain swallowing up everything around it.
And still, people prescribed ice cream. A few suggested we watch “Gilmore Girls” while feasting on our pints of creamy goodness. I love Rory and Lorelei, but I knew they weren’t fixing this. This was well beyond the power of Phish Food, too.
It’s been six months and she’s slowly working through the grief. I don’t have all the answers or a magical cure for taking away a child’s heartbreak — oh, how I wish I did — but here are some things I’ve learned.
• People don’t know what to say, so they rely on standard responses like “get her some ice cream.” This doesn’t mean they don’t care.
• Most people don’t take teenage relationships seriously, thus flippant remarks about ice cream. This relationship and this breakup were both serious to my daughter.
• Sometimes mom and dad aren’t enough. Her therapist said it’s a good idea to seek professional help if a teen isn’t moving on from a breakup or lost friendships after two weeks.
• Time isn’t the cure. Deciding it’s time to move on is. Someone
can stay stuck in their pain for years if they don’t decide “enough.”
• You can’t make someone decide “enough.” They have to come to it on their own.
• Space and new experiences eventually help replace the raw pain.
• A hurting person doesn’t always feel like engaging in new experiences or seeking out new friends. Grief is exhausting. It often doesn’t leave room for anything else.
• Space can also be hard. My daughter logically knew staying away from his social media and avoiding him at school was the best thing for her, but the pull to someone you miss so very much is hard to resist.
• Make sure your child doesn’t feel like a burden to you. They need to know you’ll still be there even if all of their friends get tired of hearing about the breakup.
• You might miss their ex, too. He was part of our household for a year. It was a loss for me. However, it’s important not to upstage your child’s breakup with your feelings.
Things to say to a teenager experiencing a heartbreak instead of “Want some ice cream?”
• I’m sorry you’re going through this.
• This sounds really hard.
• It seems like you’re really hurting.
• I can tell he/she was really special to you.
• It’s okay to be upset.
• Is there anything I can do right now to help you feel better?
• What do you need from me so you feel supported?
Teenagers have big, strong feelings and they don’t always completely understand them. They might not have the words to express them to someone else. Things get turned upside down quickly and sometimes it’s hard for them to find their way to the surface. Be there to help them pull through it. Don’t trivialize their feelings by saying all they need is some Ben & Jerry’s. Listen. Acknowledge. Support. By all means, dig into some ice cream together if you both have a craving, just don’t call it the cure. (Unless you know of magic ice cream and if so, I would like to place a large order.)
Rachael Moshman is a mom, writer and educator who designates ice cream strictly as a dessert.
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WEEKENDS, FEBRUARY 4-5, 11-12, 18-19 & 25-26
Learn, build and explore while you participate in a variety of hands-on engineering activities. Included with paid admission. MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY AND SCIENCE, 401 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale, www.mods.org
WEEKENDS, FEBRUARY 4-MARCH 26
Travel back in time to this village filled with sword fighters, minstrels, magicians, mud-beggars and more. $32/adult, $14/child. 10am until sunset, QUIET WATERS PARK, 401 S. Powerline Rd., Deerfield Beach, www.ren-fest.com
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 7
Enjoy a fun-filled evening at the library with activities and stories. 6-6:30pm, SOUTHWEST REGIONAL LIBRARY, 16835 Sheridan St., Davie, www.broward.org/library
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10
Grab dinner from the food trucks, then kick back on your blankets or lawn chairs to enjoy this monthly concert series. Food trucks begin serving at 6pm, music starts at 7pm. CITY PARK, 6600 Sunset Strip, Sunrise, 954-747-4600 www.sunrisefl.gov
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10
Bring blankets and lawn chairs to watch a screening of Sing 2, under the stars. Free. 7:30pm, WESTON
REGIONAL PARK, 20200 Saddle Club Rd., Weston, 954-389-4321 www.westonfl.org
FRIDAYS, FEBRUARY 10 & 17
Enjoy a hayride around the park, and a marshmallow roast around a campfire to make s’mores. Advance tickets required. $4/person. 6:30-9pm. Feb. 10, TRADEWINDS PARK, 3600 W. Sample Rd., Coconut Creek; Feb. 17, T.Y. PARK, 3300 N. Park Rd., Hollywood, 954-357-8811
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11
A special day for dogs and dog lovers featuring entertainment, demonstrations, vendors, rescue groups and more. Free. 10am-1pm, PAWGRASS AT WELLEBY PARK, 11100 NW 44 St., Sunrise www.sunrisefl.gov
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11
A fun-filled afternoon with a car show, live music by Hot Mess, food trucks and inflatable rides for the kids. 3-6pm, TAMARAC SPORTS COMPLEX, 9901 NW 77 St., Tamarac, www.tamarac.org
SUNDAY-MONDAY, FEBRUARY 12-13
Venture into the Hundred Acre Wood with Winnie the Pooh, Christopher Robin and friends Piglet, Eeyore, Kanga, Roo, Rabbit, Owl and Tigger. $25 and up. THE PARKER, 707 NE Eighth St., Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-0222 www.parkerplayhouse.com
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY
Spend some time with loved ones on a sunset stroll. $5. All ages. 6-7pm, MIRAMAR PINELAND,
3600 S. University Dr., Miramar, 954-357-8776 www.broward.org/parks
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17
Bring a lawn chair or blanket to listen to a free concert in the park. 7:30-9:30pm, MICKEL PARK, 2675 NW Seventh Ave., Wilton Manors, www.wiltonmanors.gov
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17
Enjoy live music by a local band and a variety of food vendors at this concert series held every third Friday of the month. 7-9pm, ALI CULTURAL ARTS, 353 Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd., Pompano Beach, www.pompanobeachfl.gov
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18
Settle in for an outdoor screening of Sonic the Hedgehog 2. 6:30pm, MARGATE SPORTS COMPLEX, 1695 Banks Rd., Margate, www.margatefl.com
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19
Enjoy a music-filled day featuring the Florida Youth Orchestra and Grammy-winning jazz flutist, Nestor Torres. All ages. Concert is free. $5/parking. 1-5pm, PLANTATION HERITAGE PARK, 1100 S. Fig Tree Lane, www.broward.org/parks
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19
Learn about native plants, herbs, trees, bees and urban farming at this family and pet friendly event. 10am-3pm, SAMPLE-MCDOUGALD HOUSE CENTENNIAL PARK, 450 NE Tenth St., Pompano Beach, www.pompanobeachfl.gov
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23
A comedic show, presented by Fantasy Theatre Factory, that brings children’s books to life. 3-4pm, JAN MORAN COLLIER CITY LEARNING LIBRARY, 2800 NW Ninth Court, Pompano Beach, www.broward.org/library
FRIDAY-SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 24-26
Celebrate Davie’s agricultural roots with a weekend of festivities at BAMFORD SPORTS COMPLEX, 3801 S. Pine Island Rd. and BERGERON RODEO GROUNDS, 4201 Rodeo Way, Davie, www.davie-fl.gov
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25
Celebrate Broward’s rich cultural heritage with a parade and street festival spotlighting the community’s traditions. Free. Parade begins at 9am ALONG SISTRUNK BOULEVARD, Fort Lauderdale, www.sistrunkfestival.org
WEDNESDAYS, JANUARY 1, 8, 15 & 22
Bring the family, and your appetite, to this food truck event featuring a variety of dishes to choose from. 5-10pm, PELICAN HARBOR MARINA, 1275 NE 79 St., Miami, www.miamifoodtrucksevents.com
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3
Bring a blanket and binoculars or a telescope to view the moon in the night sky. 6-9pm, DEERING ESTATE, 16701 SW 72 Ave., Miami, 305-235-1668 www.deeringestate.org
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4
A free family fun day celebrating Black heritage with activities, dance workshops, a children’s reading corner, vendors and more. 3-7pm, ADRIENNE ARSHT CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, www.arshtcenter.org
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4
Have some fun with free activities for the kids beginning at 7pm and an outdoor screening of Lightyear starting at 7:30pm. 7-9pm, GATEWAY PARK, 151 Sunny Isles Blvd., Sunny Isles Beach, www.sibfl.net
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4
Bring the kids for a hands-on history lesson the first Saturday of every month when admission and museum exploration is free.
GOLD COAST RAILROAD MUSEUM, 12450 SW 152 St., Miami, 305-253-0063 www.goldcoastrailroadmuseum.org
SATURDAY-SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 4-5
Festival features more than 60 local artists, musical performances, children’s activities and more. Free. 11am-6pm, KANE CONCOURSE, Bay Harbor Islands, www.bayharborislands-fl.gov
ONGOING FEBRUARY 7-26
A Broadway extravaganza, and immersive theatrical experience, presented by Area Stage Company. Showtimes vary. ARSHT CENTER, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 786-468-2000 www.arshtcenter.org
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 8
Explore the woods and wildlife at night on this guided hike followed by a campfire. $15/person. DEERING ESTATE, 16701 SW 72 Ave., Miami, www.deeringestate.org
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY
See a new musical stage adaption of the beloved tale featuring Winnie the Pooh, Christopher Robin and their favorite friends. $25-$45. 3 & 7pm, DENNIS C. MOSS CULTURAL ARTS CENTER, 10950 SW 211 St., Cutler Bay, 786-573-5300 www.mosscenter.org
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11
Stop by for stories, songs and activities for children and families. 10-10:30am, VIRRICK PARK BRANCH LIBRARY, 3255 Plaza St., Miami, www.mdpls.org
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 12
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a loving hands science experience that explores freezing and melting points. Ages 2-5. $25/child, plus museum admission. 10:30-11:30am & 1-2pm, PHILLIP AND PATRICIA FROST MUSEUM OF SCIENCE, 1101 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, www.frostscience.org
FEBRUARY 15-MARCH 5
This inventive story and Broadway sensation takes a look at the Wizard of Oz from a different angle. $33-$193. ARSHT CENTER, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 786-468-2000 www.arshtcenter.org
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17
Spend some special time together with a night of dancing under the stars. $25/person. 6-9pm, EVELYN GREER PARK, 8200 SW 124 St., Pinecrest, 305-669-6990 www.pinecrest-fl.gov
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17
Teens in grades 7-12 can dance the night away while everyone listens to music through headphones. 7-9pm, GATEWAY CENTER, 151 Sunny Isles Blvd., Sunny Isles Beach, www.sibfl.net
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18
Children ages 12 and older can learn how to create abstract art. Registration required. 2-3pm, HIALEAH GARDENS BRANCH LIBRARY, 13451 NW 107 Ave., Hialeah, 305-820-8520, www.mdpls.org
SATURDAY-MONDAY, FEBRUARY 18-20
A celebration of art featuring multi-media artists and art displays, culinary demonstrations, music, live performances and a Family Zone with fun-filled activities. $20/per person, per day. Saturday & Sunday 10am-7pm, Monday 10am-5pm.
COCONUT GROVE, 3390 Mary St., Miami, www.cgaf.com
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25
Sample some cool and creative treats from local businesses while having some fun in the sun at this event hosted by television personality and pastry chef, Duff Goldman. The social is part of the South Beach Wine and Food Festival lineup. All ages. $50/adult, $35/child. 3-5pm, LOEWS MIAMI BEACH HOTEL, 1601 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, www.sobewff.org
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 26
Families can enjoy free museum admission throughout the day and special hands-on activities including a Design Challenge from 2-4pm. THE BASS MUSEUM OF ART, 2100 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305-673-7530 www.thebass.org
TUESDAYS
Skip the cooking and choose from an array of food trucks, with selections sure to please the entire family. The evening also includes bounce houses and children’s activities. Weather permitting. 5-10pm, HAULOVER PARK, 10800 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 786-287-6688 www.miamifoodtrucksevents.com
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2
The Shane Duncan Band performs a free concert for all to enjoy. 7:30pm, OLD SCHOOL SQUARE, 51 N. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach, www.delraybeachfl.gov
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4
Learn about the wonders of manatees with a day filled with entertainment and activities including a beach cleanup, recycling relay race, vendors,
arts and crafts and more. 9am-4pm, MANATEE LAGOON, 6000 N. Flagler Dr., West Palm Beach, www.visitmanateelagoon.com
SATURDAY-SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 11-12
This fair has a little bit of something for everyone who loves the surf and sea. 9am-5pm, SOUTH FLORIDA FAIRGROUNDS, 9067 Southern Blvd, West Palm Beach, www.FLNauticalFleaMarket.com
THURSDAYS
Little ones learn all about nature through crafts, garden exploration and story time.
Every effort has been made to provide accurate information. Changes and cancellations do occur. Please double check the details before setting out on your adventure.
Ages 5 and under with caregiver. $10/child. 10am-noon, DELRAY BEACH CHILDREN’S GARDEN, 137 SW Second Ave., Delray Beach, www.delraybeachchildrensgarden.org
When I married my husband, I thought that I was done dating. It turns out, I was wrong. I went on several dates with people I met from the library and the Internet. The dates I am talking about are a different kind of date — you know those dates you go on for your kids — playdates.
When my 2-year-old twins and I went on our first playdate, I was just as nervous as a “real” date. I met the other mother online through a mom’s group so it was a “blind date.” She had a daughter the same age as my twins.
Questions rattled about in my mind.
Would this woman be “normal”?
Would my kids get along with her daughter?
Would we get along?
Would my kids want to play with her kid?
And most importantly… Would her kid be up for the challenge of playing with my mischievous twin toddlers?
We met at a neutral, safety-proofed, public location — the library. Luckily, it ended up going well. So, another playdate was scheduled.
The next playdate did not go as smoothly as our first one. This time, we went to the playdate’s house. When we arrived, I scanned the play area, which was safety-proofed, but it wasn’t “my mischievous twin toddler proofed.” I guess that might be one difference between having a singleton and twins.
A gate was up to contain them in the family room, but it wasn’t securely attached to the wall, just sort of jammed between some sofas. Plastic plugs were in most of the electric outlets, but I saw some stray empty ones.
My twins immediately sought out the weak areas. They pulled at the TV cords and went behind the television. Once I unplugged the TV and blocked it off as best I could, it was no longer interesting to them.
They then sought out other vulnerable areas. My son plowed through the feebly assembled safety gate as if he was Godzilla knocking down a building. After he opened the gate, my twins and their playdate went running in opposite directions — free at last!
My first instinct was to chase after the most menacing twin. When I found him he was bathing himself in toilet water — gross! Even though I was thoroughly repulsed, I cleaned him up and then knew I had to find his twin sibling.
As I turned the corner, I found my other twin with a mouthful of cat food. It must have been quite tasty since she was going back for seconds.
Like any bad date, I knew that we needed to leave before someone got hurt or I threw up. Fortunately, the mother was very understanding.
Besides being mischievous, my twins are also endearing because somehow, they got asked out for another playdate. This time I suggested meeting at my house where I know the gates are secured and we don’t have any unattended cat food.
Cheryl Maguire, the mother of twins and a daughter, finds the humor in not-so-perfect playdates.
The Nicklaus Children’s Orthopedic, Sports Medicine & Spine Institute provides compassionate care centered around patients and their families. That’s one reason we are among the most successful programs in the nation for treating spinal disorders in children and teens. Our expert team of spine specialists has been influential in the development of some of the latest and most innovative techniques in spine and scoliosis surgery, supporting our mission to give every child a chance for a productive and happy life.
