Because of her mom’s lifelong heart condition, Lily was born early and needed help breathing. Yasser Al-Jebawi, MD, neonatologist, gave her a breathing tube, and then Lily transferred to the expert care of our neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
This seamless transition in life’s first moments is critical. Families trust our team of experts to coordinate care across specialties. For Lily’s family, that started before her birth — with her mom’s cardiologist to labor & delivery at Memorial to Lily’s NICU care at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital.
“We knew that the neonatal unit here was going to take good care of her,” says mom Heather. Lily’s older brother also had NICU care here.
When it’s your child, trust our NICU experts in the moments that count most.
Lily, who was born early, and mom Heather
2023 CAMP GUIDE
Explore a variety of options to keep your children happy campers all season long.
March is Bicycle Month!
What began as Bicycle Week more than a decade ago is now a monthlong, statewide celebration of bicycle safety, education, and events for riders of all ages.
Where will your ride take you?
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Biking is so much more than transportation. It’s great exercise, provides your body with fresh air and brings the family together. If you aren’t normally into biking, this month — when the state celebrates the many benefits of cycling — might be the perfect time to give it a whirl. There are a number of BYOB — Bring Your Own Bike — events planned in South Florida to recognize the occasion. Mark one or more of these outings on your calendar and don’t forget to bring water and a helmet.
BROWARD COUNTY: The Broward County Parks Department has events scheduled which include a Bike and Hike from 4 to 5 p.m. on Friday, March 24 at Kristin Jacobs Natural Area at Hillsboro Pineland. The free excursion guides participants on a naturalist-led bike and hike to explore three different natural areas in Coconut Creek. The ride starts at 5591 NW 74 Place, Coconut Creek. For more information, call 954-357-8109. For additional events, see www.broward.org/parks.
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY: The Friends of the Underline are gathering a group to explore local sights during the Miami Music Week Bike Ride through Wynwood. The family-friendly tour takes riders through the Wynwood neighborhood, home to creative street art, galleries and art displays. The two-hour, free bike ride begins at The Underline in front of the Metrorail
Station, 1001 SW First Ave., Miami, at 10 a.m. on Sunday, March 26. For information, see www.theunderline.org.
PALM BEACH COUNTY: The Village of Royal Palm Beach will host a family Bike Rodeo from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 25 at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park, 11600 Poinciana Blvd. The trail ride offers different courses and staggered start times for beginner, intermediate and advanced levels. All participants receive a free t-shirt, and the PBSO volunteer unit will be there to promote bike safety. Full details can be found at www.royalpalmbeachfl.gov.
If you want to pave your own way, there are plenty of places to take a spin. Hugh Taylor Birch State Park in Fort Lauderdale has a one-mile tree-lined loop that’s popular with bike riders; Patch Reef Trail in Boca Raton offers a 3½ mile shared-use pathway for cycling, running and walking; and the Shark Valley bike trail in Miami offers visitors a self-guided Everglades eco-tour along a 15-mile path (if you wish to complete the whole thing).
Florida State Parks offers a statewide network of trails for public use on its website, www.floridastateparks.org. It also highlights safety tips to help you stay safe on every excursion by remembering to wear a helmet (state law for everyone under 16), sticking to designated trails, using the buddy system, watching the weather and dressing accordingly,
MARCH 12
THE PARKER Wells Hall
MARCH 25-APRIL 9
BROWARD CENTER Amaturo Theater
Stone Soup
APRIL 28 & 29
BROWARD CENTER Amaturo Theater
MAY 6
Sensory-Inclusive Performance
BROWARD CENTER Abdo New River Room
APRIL 26
BROWARD CENTER Au-Rene Theater
JUNE 27
BROWARD CENTER Au-Rene Theater
JULY 7–15
Sensory-Inclusive Performance July 15 BROWARD CENTER
JUNE 10–25
BROWARD CENTER Amaturo Theater
JULY 22 & 23
BROWARD CENTER Au-Rene Theater
Dragons & Mythical Beasts, Dino Ranch Live, Madagascar the Musical and Bluey are part of the Islands of the Bahamas Imagination Series. Disney’s Mary Poppins and Newsies are part of Slow Burn Theater Company 22/23 Season presented by American National Bank. Stone Soup is part of Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Family Fun Series and Smart Stage Matinee Series presented by JM Family Enterprises, Inc.
Sensory-inclusive performances are made possible by The Batchelor Foundation, JAFCO, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, the Taft Foundation and in-kind support from UM-NSU CARD.
Everyone has to deal with feelings of anger and frustration at times. While these feelings are normal, it is important to teach kids how to appropriately deal with them. Parents and kids can work as a team to come up with strategies for these situations. Working together to prepare a plan in advance will help children learn how to calm down and discuss why the feelings occurred. Here are some techniques to try for each age group.
THE TODDLER YEARS (AGES 0-2)
Prepare: Observe what calms your child. Is it snuggling up with a parent? What toys does he play with quietly?
Make note of what is calming for your child and use these activities later when the child is upset.
Act: Children of this age do not understand their feelings. When the child becomes frustrated and angry, use one calming technique you observed. Sing a song, snuggle up with a book, get out a new toy or start a new activity. Remain calm and use a soothing voice while speaking to the child.
Discuss: Think about what caused the child’s anger and discuss with other caregivers what may be common frustrations for your child. If a toy is causing the child to become angry, simply remove it. If the child is overtired
or hungry, adjust meals and bedtime. During the toddler years, tantrums are normal and may happen frequently. Try to remember this is one of the ways that toddlers can communicate their feelings. Be patient and know that this stage will pass as the child matures and their vocabulary develops.
THE PRESCHOOL YEARS (AGES 3-5)
Prepare: On a calm day, talk with your preschooler about different types of feelings, giving names to them. Some find a chart or photos helpful when explaining. Discuss appropriate behavior when angry and talk about actions to help them calm down. Calming suggestions for preschoolers
may include drawing a picture, playing with cars, doing a simple puzzle, singing and dancing to music, running, jumping or giving hugs. Parent Sherrie Hoffman says “With my 5-year-old, slow deep breaths help. Then, when he can talk, we discuss what has upset him.”
Act: When feelings of anger begin, ask them, in a calm voice, to try one of the techniques discussed earlier. Remind them you will talk about it when they are calm. Do not feed into their actions unless they are working on becoming calm.
Discuss: Later, ask the child to share why they became angry and come up with ideas of how to prevent the situation in the future. Remind them it is normal to feel angry at times and let them know you are proud of the way they used the techniques to calm down.
Prepare: Discuss common triggers for your child and come up with a plan of how to handle them. Talk about the difference between appropriate and inappropriate anger. Like the preschool age, come up with a technique that helps calm the child and plan to use it when needed. Ideas for this age group could include going to their bedroom and listening to their favorite music, kicking a soccer ball, swinging on the swing set or screaming into a pillow.
Act: When the child becomes angry, calmly let them know that you see they are upset and would like to talk about it when they are calm. “We don’t talk about a problem until they are calm and if they get worked up while explaining what is wrong then we take deep breaths until they are calm again,” says Rachael Kennedy, mother of five.
Discuss: When the child has calmed down, listen to their frustrations. Let them know it is okay to feel angry and praise them for handling it well. Ask them what could have been different and come up with solutions as a team.
Prepare: At this age, the child may be aware of what sets them off and so may the parent. Try to problem-solve how to avoid situations that make them angry. Come up with ways that they can calm down on their own. Ideas for this age include taking a walk, tidying up their
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Vista View Park 4001 SW 142 Avenue
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room, listening to music, journaling, taking a shower or bath or calling a friend to vent.
Act: Calmly mention that you see they are angry and ask them to please take a break from the situation until they can calm down. Give them space unless they want to talk and be patient. If appropriate, leave them alone in the house to calm down.
Discuss: Later, after everyone is ready, discuss what happened. Figure out what could be a solution now or in the future. Come to a compromise about what could be different and ask them for as much input as possible.
The goal of these techniques is to teach kids that all feelings are normal, even anger. Teaching these techniques gives kids the tools they need to deal with anger appropriately and teaches them how to use problem-solving to work through a frustrating situation.
It’s no secret that our behavior as parents affects our kids. How a parent deals with feelings of anger can have a huge impact on how our children will react when they feel angry. Here are 10 tips to model appropriate behavior when those feelings occur:
• Walk away
• Take some deep breaths
• Keep a calm voice
• Use calm body language (no slamming doors or stomping around)
• Diffuse anger by doing a calming activity (tidy up, take a walk, splash water on your face)
• Fake it until you make it
• Commit in advance to keep your cool
• Think about how your actions affect your kids
• Acknowledge that it’s not normal for children to push your buttons
• Try to see the humor in the situation
BY KATHRYN STREETER
Managing the demands and learning curve of blossoming adolescents is tough, but just what if this process prepared parents for handling their aging parents? Understanding where similarities lie between teens and aging parents puts a new twist on the popular theme of feeling ‘sandwiched’ between these two lovable but stretching generations.
Family therapist Colleen O’Grady, author of Dial Down the Drama, says there are similarities between teens and aging parents and that “skills you learn from raising teenagers are helpful.” She offers valuable encouragement needed for dealing with both in her simple admonition: “Remember, it’s not personal.” Though her book focuses on teenage girls, her mantra of not getting pulled into the drama is at the heart of her family counseling strategy, a message she shared onstage in a TEDx Talk. Not getting sucked into the drama, she says, is equally critical for adult children in their relationship with aging parents.
OBSERVATION: Watching teens’ nonverbal signals grows increasingly important because often, many things go unsaid, simmering below the surface. Noting expressions, and the way they walk through the front door or hastily leave the dinner table offer clues to what’s going on.
Similarly, there’s a lot to be learned from watching aging
parents. How’s their driving? Do they struggle with balance or basic housekeeping? Instead of badgering them, approach the issue you’ve detected with open-ended questions, O’Grady advises, such as, ‘Is it hard keeping up with the housework?’ instead of threatening, leading questions like, ‘You can’t clean the house by yourself, don’t you agree?’ O’Grady says, “When you listen most of the time, you will hear an opening for advice.”
In How to Care for the Emotional Needs of the Elderly, Frances Evesham identifies the core needs of an elderly person, including that of engaging in pleasurable activities. Just as one would for a teen, take steps to support an aging parent’s areas of interest. Being watchful and observant is the first step in offering solutions, so, she says, “take time to listen carefully to an elderly person.” Evesham advises that if your aging parent loves reading, for example, but is struggling with seeing the text, consider buying large-print editions. The takeaway: Do what is possible to maintain their dignity and independence so they can continue doing what they love.
INTERVENTION: Knowing when to intervene requires discernment. Sometimes parents have to be reminded that their teens deserve respect; aging parents deserve no less. Just as kids don’t thrive with helicopter parenting, aging parents resent hovering, meddling adult children, writes Clare Ansberry in
The Wall Street Journal article, Who’s In Charge Here? Aging Parents Resist ‘Helicopter’ Children. Ansberry points out that while aging parents are comforted by being cared about, they fear being cared for. “Hence,” she says, “the push and pull when a well-meaning offspring steps onto [their] turf.”
O’Grady sheds light on where the ‘drama’ comes from, explaining that aging parents can spend the majority of their days in the limbic system of their brain, i.e., the reactive part.
Prompted by fears of losing control, their independence, their dignity, and about the future, among other things, makes aging parents prone to “a plethora of negative emotions — especially anxiety.” The brain, she continues, goes “off-line” from the higher brain — the cerebral cortex which is the big-picture, problem-solving part of the brain – and instead lodges in the limbic system, the reactionary part.
Likewise, teens tend to live in the brain’s reactive limbic system, but unlike their grandparents, they do so because their prefrontal cortex, responsible for cognitive behavior, is still in the process of development. The poor judgment and reasoning piece is where LuAnne Smith, Geriatric Care Manager and Elder Care Consultant, sees similarities between teens and seniors. “However, the sad difference is that we expect our teenagers to ‘get better’ while our elderly parents continue to decline and eventually pass on,” she said.
Even when there’s no dementia, O’Grady says cognitive decline is common in the elderly, so they will typically get emotionally flooded and react quickly, seeing events in the extreme.
It’s a struggle, to demonstrate our sincere care for aging parents without making them feel like they’re being shadowed. Worried as
we may be, Ansberry’s article cautions against the tendency to hover and make decisions for aging parents unless there’s cognitive impairment. We must permit our aging parents to take informed risks and allow them autonomy, thus demonstrating our confidence in their competency.
This sage advice is reminiscent of counsel given to parents regarding their teens, to give them space to live their own lives. Barring medical problems, this learned posture conveniently provides adult children with a useful template for caring for aging parents.
BALANCE: Just how do those in this middle zone with one arm around teens, and the other around aging parents, broker the tension?
O’Grady says that practicing extreme self-care is “the best gift you can give your teens or aging parents.” When you neglect yourself and allow well-intentioned empathy and false obligations to rob you of your energy and focus, you will fall head-first into the emotional vortex of the moment. “Often [your teen or parent] will follow your emotional lead. If you don’t get upset, you will be a calming influence and they will start to dial down their own drama.”
We all need the help and support of others, says O’Grady. Step back, make a plan, and build a team of supportive adults to help you. “You can’t do it all by yourself,” she says.
Indeed, parenting teens and caring for aging parents are the roads best traveled with a supportive community.
Kathryn Streeter is a writer and mom whose writing has appeared in numerous publications.
March 4 – May 7 | 9:30am to 5pm daily
Smithsonian traveling pollinator exhibit
Pollinator – friendly plant displays
Metal art by local artist Jorge L. Lopez
Gallery exhibit “Portrait of a Pollinator”
9:30am to 4:30pm
BY PAM MOORE
My kids could not have been happier as they splashed in the water, playing with their friends.
I’d dropped them off at their first day of summer camp that morning, thrilled to have four hours to myself. When I’d enrolled them in the camp run by the gym where I work out and teach group fitness, I asked about the ratio of adults to kids in the pool. They told me it would be two adults with a maximum of 15 kids, plus a lifeguard.
“Isn’t that kind of a low ratio?” I’d asked. The camp was for kids ages 2-and-a-half and up. The pool has an infinity edge that gradually extends to a depth of 3-feet. The camp director, a mom herself, assured me they’d always done it this way and it had been fine. She encouraged me to sit by the pool and watch if I wanted. Perhaps I was being overly protective, I thought. Obviously, the other parents didn’t seem to have a problem with it.
My kids are 3 and 5 years old and neither of them can swim well. Though I pride myself on being a pretty hands-off (ie: lazy) parent, when it comes to water safety, I don’t take chances. On the first day of camp, I sat poolside and watched during swim time. My initial feeling of, “I can’t see how this is going to work” progressed to, “Oh my god this is a total disaster”
I felt like I was going to throw up.
to, “I don’t know how much longer I can watch before I start hyperventilating.”
There were 13 campers, many of them under 5 years old, two adults, and zero lifeguards. Plus there were kids with their parents who were not attending camp swimming. I could hardly keep my eyes on my own two kids through the sea of people. At times, one camp staffer would take a kid to the restroom, leaving one adult in charge of 12 kids.
I waited for them to blow a whistle and have the kids buddy up like we used to do at summer camp when I was a kid. That never happened. I waited, my eyes darting wildly to keep track of my girls until finally, they took the kids out of the water. At that point, I gathered my things, went to the locker room, sequestered myself in a bathroom stall, and exhaled. Tears of frustration and anxiety spilled out while I choked back a little sob.
Was I overreacting? I didn’t think so. But when I brought my concerns to one of the administrators of the gym, they were brushed off. I was offered only reassurance that the staff was extremely responsible. “I’m sure they are,” I countered. “I just don’t think there are enough of them for all of the kids to be safe in the pool.”
To avoid a similar situation like this, here are some important questions to ask before committing to a camp.
To meet the American Camping Association’s (ACA) standards, camps must adhere to minimum staff ratios, which pertain to overall supervision, but not specifically to aquatic supervision. While these ratios vary according to age, requirements change according to whether the children are on land or in the water and is at each camp’s discretion. ACA-accredited day camps require a minimum ratio of 1-to-6 for children ages 5 and under, 1-to-8 for
children ages 6-8, and 1-to-10 for children ages 9-14. Ratios are slightly higher for overnight campers: 1-to-5 for children ages 5 and under, 1-to-6 for children 6-8, and 1-to-8 for children ages 9-14. ACA accreditation is completely voluntary, however. If a camp has the credential, they have gone through a rigorous, costly accreditation process, and will typically display proof of certification on their website and/or in their office.
2.
While the ACA accreditation is a valuable credential, it is no replacement for doing your homework. Ensuring that your child’s camp follows state licensing guidelines and provides adequate staff training is just as important as the ACA stamp of approval, if not more so. Whether or not they’re accredited by the ACA, camps must meet certain minimum standards set by their state. These requirements vary widely from state to state. While some states’ requirements are consistent throughout, in others they are specific to the city or county.
Meanwhile, there are a few states that have adopted the same standards as the ACA. An index of resources for each state compiled by the ACA is available at https://www.acacamps.org/ resource-library/state-laws-regulations.
3. 4.
One recommendation is for parents to talk directly to camp administrators to find out how they train their staff to manage swim time and make sure they know and adhere to their state’s licensing standards. For example, does staff training include a water safety segment where they go over every aspect of swim time, including face checks and staff presence in the pool?
While the ACA standards dictate that camps must institute a system to quickly account for all campers involved in aquatic activities, it is at the camp’s discretion to decide which system to employ. While there is an app for nearly everything, they still haven’t come up with one to replace the Buddy System, a common water safety check that has not changed much, if at all, since my youth, whereby the lifeguard blows a whistle signaling campers to pair up with a pre-designated swim buddy.
Beyond my casual questions about the swimming situation at my kids’ camp, it never occurred to me to explore my state’s licensing requirements until I witnessed the swim program firsthand. I admit, my main camp selection criteria were convenience and price. After my poolside near-panic attack, though, my concern was safety.
And rightly so, according to experts like Dr. Sanjay Gupta, senior medical correspondent at CNN Health. In an article posted there, he says toddlers are at a relatively huge risk of drowning, even in water as shallow as one inch, due to their top-heavy bodies:
“Children 4 and under actually have the single highest drowning death rate according to the National Safety Council.” And according to Alan Steinman, MD, former director of health and safety at the U.S Coast Guard, drowning is a highly inconspicuous event. It happens quietly, without any arm flailing or cries for help.
AMERICA’S LEADERS
North Broward
954-748-5977
www.americasleaders.co
All girls cheerleading program with dance, leadership and more. Ages 5-12.
BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS
Various locations in the tri-county area
Broward www.bgcbc.org
Miami-Dade www.bgcmia.org
Palm Beach www.bgcpbc.org
Children participate in summer enrichment programs that focus on social and cultural experiences, recreation, team building and educational activities.
BROWARD CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 9191 Orange Dr., Davie 954-667-0852
www.browardkids.org
Through a wide range of activities and experiences, the summer camp program at Broward Christian Academy teaches children in grades K-5 how to be team players, build resiliency and confidence and develop social skills.
BROWARD COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION
954-357-8100
www.broward.org/parks
Broward County Parks hosts various summer camp options at a number of county park locations. Check the website for 2023 updates.
CAMP CHAMELEON
Markham Park, 16001 State Rd. 84, Sunrise 954-815-9054
www.campchameleon.com
Kids can enjoy playful summer days participating in activities that include non-competitive sports, art, aquatics and more.
CAMP COLOSSAL
746 NE Third Ave., Fort Lauderdale 754-444-9929
www.colossal-academy.com
This unforgettable camp experience includes crafts, STEM activities, gardening and a chance to create lifelong memories.
CAMP EMBARK
Miramar Country Club Ranches, 4700 Indian Trail, Miramar 954-654-4091
www.campembark.com
Children ages 5-14 can have fun while embarking on a journey to discover nature, science, leadership and self-empowering life skills.
CAMP KADIMA AT THE DAVID POSNACK JCC
5850 S. Pine Island Rd., Davie 954-434-0499
www.dpjcc.org
Summer is right around the corner and our guide offers a variety of ways to keep your children happy campers all season long. Here’s a look at some programs in South Florida and beyond that encourage kids to forge new friendships, tap into their talents, gain independence and make lasting memories.
2023
Camp Kadima offers a camp experience for interests including sports, theater, adventure, travel, tech and more. Programming is also offered at the Baer Family Early Childhood Center in Fort Lauderdale. Open to all. No membership required.
CAMP LIVE OAK
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, A1A & Sunrise Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale
www.campliveoakfl.com
ACA accredited day camp includes a variety of activities and specialty camps, such as Environmental & Marine, Salty Anglers, Teen Eco Experience and Lil’ Sprouts.
CAMP SAGEMONT
1570 Sagemont Way, Weston 954-799-6107
www.sagemont.com
Camp Sagemont provides the opportunity for lifelong friendships and valuable, unforgettable experiences. Campers build new skills through day camp, specialty camps, a Conservatory for the Arts program and more.
CAMP SUMMIT-QUESTA
5451 SW 64 Ave., Davie 954-584-3466
www.summitquesta.com
Summit-Questa offers an Early Childhood Camp for ages 3-5 and an Elementary Camp for ages 6-10 with a variety of activities.
CARROLLTON SUMMER PROGRAMS
3747 Main Highway, Miami 305-446-5673
www.carrollton.org
Camp sessions include a variety of activities that engage campers in imaginative play, critical thinking, creative expression, outdoor exploring and more.
CHESTERBROOK ACADEMY
5520 Alexandria Blvd., Coconut Creek 877-959-3740
www.chesterbrookacademy.com/camp
School-Age Summer Camp features sports, games, STEM activities, art, music, dance and more.
CHILDREN’S SERVICES COUNCIL (CSC)
www.cscbroward.org
Various locations throughout Broward County
CSC funded summer programs provide a safe, positive environment for elementary school children.
CITY OF DANIA BEACH
www.daniabeachfl.gov
Kids can make new friends while participating in camp activities and lots of summertime fun.
CITY OF HOLLYWOOD
www.hollywoodfl.org
Kids can participate in specialty camps or in traditional summer camp activities throughout the city of Hollywood.
MIAMI CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
980 MacArthur Causeway, Miami
305-373-5437
www.miamichildrensmuseum.org
Explorers Summer Camp, for ages 4-10, allows children to explore art, hands-on making, innovating and recreation and more.
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION
305-755-7800
www.miamidade.gov/parks
The county park system offers a variety of fun-filled summer camp choices including sports, nature, performing and fine arts and more. Visit website for details.
SUNSHINE CHILD PROGRAMS
954-236-8850
www.sunshinefl.com
Offers a variety of camp options and activities at convenient locations throughout Broward and Miami-Dade counties.
YMCA OF SOUTH FLORIDA
954-334-9622
305-357-4000
www.ymcasouthflorida.org
Broward County locations: Greater Hollywood YMCA Family Center, Hallandale Beach YMCA Family Center, LA Lee YMCA Family Center, Pembroke Pines YMCA Family Center and Weston YMCA Family Center
Miami-Dade location: South Dade
YMCA Family Center
Kids can make new friends and have summertime fun while participating in sports, aquatics, arts, science, cooking, fitness, performances, leadership training and more.
BARB KOSTER’S RIDING ACADEMY
Southwest Ranches
754-234-5981
www.barbkostersridingacademy.com
Campers participate in horseback riding as well as lessons about safety, grooming, tacking and horsemanship.
BRIGHT & SMART, ENGINEERING SKILLS FOR KIDS
Various locations
954-816-3346
www.brightandsmart.com
A fun, weekly camp for boys and girls ages 5-12. Campers are immersed in a unique, fun-filled experience that fosters teamwork, builds problem solving skills, and nurtures critical and creative thinking.
COX SCIENCE CENTER AND AQUARIUM
4801 Dreher Trail N., West Palm Beach 561-832-1988
www.coxsciencecenter.org
Campers have fun learning about a range of scientific topics through themed, hands-on activities.
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EDUCANDO A AMÉRICA
954-261-2432
www.educandoamerica.com
Dive into the Spanish language with a Spanish Immersion Camp.
FAIRCHILD TROPICAL BOTANICAL GARDENS
10901 Old Cutler Rd., Miami 305-667-1651
www.fairchild.org
Camp Discovery at Fairchild is a nature- based, fun-filled educational adventure for kids ages 7-12.
GERMAN SUMMER CAMP
4200 N. 65 Ave., Davie 954-288-7599
www.germanschoolfl.com
Full immersion German summer camp for children ages 1-9.
I AM OK ME
Coconut Creek and Boca Raton 561-450-9346
www.smmileiamok.me
Campers with an interest in fashion, creative writing, illustration and more can experience experiential learning, teamwork, marketing, product development and more.
Our Mission is to help each individual with Special needs to learn the skills to be happy, productive, successful, and as independent as possible.
MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY AND SCIENCE
401 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale 954-713-0930
www.mods.org
Weeklong camps are designed to give children ages 6-12 entire days filled with exploration and hands-on learning.
PHILLIP AND PATRICIA FROST MUSEUM OF SCIENCE
1101 Biscayne Blvd., Miami 305-434-9560
www.frostscience.org
Children ages 5-11 can explore the wonders of science through hands-on activities during week-long themed camps.
CORAL SPRINGS MUSEUM OF ART
2855 Coral Springs Dr., Coral Springs 954-340-5000
www.coralspringsmuseum.org
Kids ages 5-6, 6.5-12 and 13-17 can explore art and have some fun through a range of camp activities.
YOUNG AT ART SUMMER ART CAMP
Located inside the Westfield Mall, 8000 W. Broward Blvd., Plantation 954-314-7077
www.youngatartmuseum.org
Kids can explore their creative side through painting, drawing, visual arts and more.
Ages 5–11
March 20–24, 2023
For details and online registration, visit frostscience.org/springcamp, call (305) 434-9564 or email camp@frostscience.org
1101 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, FL 33132 | 305-434-9600 | frostscience.org
The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is supported by the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural A airs and the Cultural A airs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners of Miami-Dade County. This project is supported by the Building Better Communities Bond Program and the City of Miami. Sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, and the National Endowment for the Arts. The museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, is an a liate of the Smithsonian Institution and a member of the Association of Science and Technology Centers.
Presented by
FOR AGES 6-12
Give your Child a SCIENTASTIC SUMMER STEM EXPERIENCE AT MODS’ summer camp program sponsored by Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital.
BROADWAY KIDS STUDIO
9042 W. State Road 84, Davie 954-693-7500
Broadwaykidsstudio.com
Dancers and performers can learn skills, increase techniques and participate in a full production.
BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
• Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale
• Nova Southeastern University/Miniaci
Performing Arts Center, 3100 Ray Ferrero, Jr. Blvd., Fort Lauderdale
• Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, 3385 NE 188 St., Aventura
Inspiration Takes Flight!
June 12-16
Expedition: Dinosaur!
June 19-23
Mystery at MODS (Whodunnit Camp) CSI
June 26-30
It’s Shocking!
July 3
Animal Adventure
July 5-7
July 24-28
Register today at mods.org/campdiscovery
MODS Magical Camp for Witches and Wizards
July 10-14
July 17-21
LEGO® Build to Launch
July 31-August 4
Visit www.browardcenter.org to reserve space in any of the camps. Sessions are offered for different age groups at each of the three locations. The camp provides both an onstage and behind the scenes theater experience. The program culminates with campers performing live on stage.
FANTASY THEATER FACTORY
At Sandrell Rivers Theater 6103 NW Seventh Ave., Miami 305-284-8872
Campers ages 7-16 learn performance exercises, dancing techniques, music genres and diverse cultures from top-notch artists and instructors.
FLORIDA CHILDREN’S THEATRE
Camps are held at Broward College Central Campus in Davie with additional sessions at The Galleria Mall 954-763-6882
www.flct.org
Summer Stage Show Camp offers sessions for those in grades 2-10. Campers learn the art of acting, music, and dance to mount a full-scale production at the end of each fourweek session. A Circus Camp is also offered.
MIRAMAR CULTURAL CENTER
2300 Civic Center Place 954-602-4534
www.miramarculturalcenter.org
Children ages 7-10 and 11-14 can learn the fundamentals of performing arts during this camp that culminates with a public performance.
Locations throughout Broward County
www.schoolofrock.com
Kids can pursue their passion for music and performing with week-long themed camps including, Stranger Things, Best of the ‘80s, AC/DC, ‘80s Rock and Hair Metal.
BROWARD CHILDREN’S CENTER
200 SE 19 Ave., Pompano Beach 954-943-7638
www.bcckids.org
BCC Kids Summer Camp for ages 3-11 includes music, arts and crafts, outdoor play, cooking activities, interactive play and more.
CAMP CORAL KIDS
954-344-3344
www.browardhealth.org/camp
Organized by Broward Health Coral Springs, this is South Florida’s only day camp for children with Type 1 diabetes. Call for details.
DIVERSE ABILITIES
11850 W. State Rd. 84, Davie 954-401-2024
www.teachdiverseabilities.com
A recreational and social Intensive Summer Program is offered to children with autism and related disabilities.
EASTERSEALS SOUTH FLORIDA
305-325-0470
www.easterseals.com/southflorida
Offers a variety of free summer camp programs for children and adolescents with autism and other related disabilities.
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION DISABILITY SERVICES CAMPS
305-755-7848
www.miamidade.gov/parks
Children and young adults with disabilities are offered enriching camp experiences in sports, swimming and arts and crafts at a variety of Miami-Dade County Parks & Recreation locations.
THE CHILDREN’S TRUST
305-571-5700
www.thechildrenstrust.org
This organization offers a wide range of services, programs and camps for children with special needs.
THE VANGUARD SCHOOL
22000 Highway 27, Lake Wales 863-676-6091
www.vanguardschool.org
Diverse learners participate in a variety of fun indoor and outdoor activities while learning problem-solving, culinary and communication skills, money concepts and more. For grades 6-12. Weekly sessions July 2-29.
VALLEY VIEW RANCH EQUESTRIAN CAMP
606 Valley View Ranch Rd., Cloudland, Georgia 706-862-2231
www.valleyviewranch.com
A horse lovers’ paradise since 1954 on 600 acres. A’top Lookout Mountain, for 50 girls ages 8-17, includes English, Western, Barrels, Vaulting, and Trails.
Weekly Field Trips
Every week at BCA Summer Camp campers will have an opportunity to go on a field trip. Whether that’s Miami Seaquarium, Funky Fish, or Bowling, our campers are excited about all the fun places they will go with their friends.
Academic Enrichment
One of our specialized components that makes BCA Summer Camp so great is our focus on academics. We schedule rotations that include math, language arts, science, and Spanish. We also include rotations that include music, arts and crafts, drama, and team building games. We like to keep children’s bodies and minds active during the summer.
Bible Focus
With all the fun things going on during our Summer Camp, its best feature is our focus on bible based lessons and activities. Our theme scripture for summer will be Mark 16:15 “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation”. Jesus was a man of focus and purpose, we will learn from God’s word, the true way to “Follow” and “Share”.
Please e-mail listing information to calendar@southfloridafamilylife.com by the 5th of the month prior to the event date. Include the name of the event, location, address, date, time, brief description, price and telephone number for the public.
Day Parade ALONG SW 90 AVENUE and family activities including live performances, food booths and fireworks at BRIAN PICCOLO PARK. 8:30am-9pm, throughout Cooper City, www.coopercityfl.org
Water Matters Day
SATURDAY, MARCH 11
A fun-filled day about the need to conserve water for people, plants and animals. Packed with workshops, giveaways, children’s activities and entertainment. Free. 9am-3pm, TREE TOPS PARK, 3900 SW 100 Ave., Davie, 954-357-5130 www.broward.org/parks
Hollywood St. Patrick’s Day
Parade & Festival
SUNDAY, MARCH 12
Celebrate all things Irish starting with a float and marching band parade followed by a festival in DOWNTOWN HOLLYWOOD. Noon-6pm. 954-921-3404 www.stpatricksfestival.com
Coral Springs Festival of the Arts
SATURDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 18-19
FRIDAY, MARCH 3
Chill out with local deputies with a game of basketball, snow cones and other fun. 4-6pm, WESTON REGIONAL PARK, 20200 Saddle Club Rd., Weston, www.westonfl.org
Visit Fort Lauderdale Science Festival
FRIDAY-SATURDAY, MARCH 3-4
A two day celebration of science with interactive activities, environmental films, exhibitors, demonstrations and more at two locations, MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY AND SCIENCE and ESPLANADE PARK in Fort Lauderdale. Many events are free but require pre-registration online. www.scienceunderthesun.org
SATURDAY, MARCH 4
Experience Celtic tradition with Scottish music, entertainment, food, beverages, dancing, pipe and drum competitions, children’s activities, athletic competitions and more. $20/adult, $5/child. 9am-7pm, PLANTATION HERITAGE PARK, 1100 S. Fig Tree Lane, Plantation, www.sassf.org
MARCH 4 - MAY 7
Explore and learn about bees, bats and everything in between at this interactive traveling exhibit. 9:30am-5pm, FLAMINGO GARDENS, 3750 S. Flamingo Rd., Davie, 954-473-2955 www.flamingogardens.org
Weston World Fest
SUNDAY, MARCH 5
Take a tour around the globe without leaving Weston at this cultural event featuring international foods, booths, children’s activities and live performances. Noon-4pm, WESTON REGIONAL PARK, 20200 Saddle Club Rd., Weston, www.westonfl.org
Broward Sierra Club Earth Day
SUNDAY, MARCH 5
Learn about being kind to our planet at this event with environmental exhibitors, live music, green-themed art displays, nature walks and more. All ages. Free. 9am-5pm, ANNE KOLB NATURE CENTER, 751 Sheridan St., Hollywood, 954-357-5161 www.broward.org/parks
Movies in the Park
FRIDAY, MARCH 10
Settle in to see an outdoor screening of Lightyear. Pre-movie activities including face painting, inflatable rides, music and food starts at 6:30pm, movie begins at 8pm. TAMARAC SPORTS COMPLEX, 9901 NW 77 St., Tamarac, www.tamarac.org
Fort Lauderdale St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival
SATURDAY, MARCH 11
Get ready to paint the town green with a parade and festival in FORT LAUDERDALE. See website for parade route and details. www.stpatsftl.com
Cooper City Founders Day
SATURDAY, MARCH 11
A full day of fun with events and activities throughout the day including a morning fun run at COOPER CITY HIGH SCHOOL, a pancake breakfast at the COMMUNITY CENTER, a Founder’s
An outdoor celebration of the arts with performances, live music and more. Free. 10am-5pm, THE WALK, 2874 N. University Dr., Coral Springs, www.artfestival.com
Spring Marshmallow Drop
SATURDAY, MARCH 25
A fun family event with Easter activities and thousands of marshmallows dropped from a helicopter. 2-5pm, BOULEVARD HEIGHTS COMMUNITY CENTER, 6670 Garfield St., Hollywood, www.hollywoodfl.org
Disney’s Mary Poppins
MARCH 25 - APRIL 9
Everyone’s favorite nanny takes the stage in this Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious musical adventure. $49 and up. BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-0222 www.browardcenter.org
Florida Renaissance Festival
WEEKENDS THROUGH MARCH 26
Travel back in time in 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
SUNDAY, MARCH 26
Explore a wide variety of summer camps and family activities during a fun-filled event presented by Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital. The afternoon includes exhibitors, live performances, games, prizes, face painting, a balloon artist, scavenger hunt, ceramics and more. Free event. Broward County Parks admission fee applies. Noon-4pm, TREE TOPS PARK, 3900 SW 100 Ave., Davie, www.southfloridafamilylife.com
FRIDAY, MARCH 3
Celebrate the birthday of Dr. Seuss with an adventure filled with stories, singing and Dr. Seuss characters. 4:30pm, DORAL CULTURAL ARTS CENTER, 8363 NW 53rd St., Doral, 305-593-6600 www.cityofdoral.com
Zoppe: An Italian Family Circus
FRIDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 3-5
Be entertained by a world of acrobatics, equestrian showmanship, canine capers, clowns and lots of audience participation. $27-$50.
THE MOSS CENTER, 10950 SW 211 St., Cutler Bay, www.mosscenter.org
Technology and Engineering Day
SATURDAY, MARCH 4
Explore innovative technology while testing out some cutting-edge gadgets. 11am-4pm, PHILLIP AND PATRICIA FROST MUSEUM OF SCIENCE, 1101 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, www.frostscience.org
Family Movie Night
SATURDAY, MARCH 4
Have some fun with family activities followed by an outdoor showing of The Bad Guys (PG) on a giant screen. 7-9pm, PELICAN COMMUNITY PARK, 18115 N. Bay Rd., Sunny Isles Beach, www.sibfl.net
Gold Coast Free First Saturday
SATURDAY, MARCH 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
Super Surprise Saturday
SATURDAY, MARCH 4
The whole family can enjoy surprise activities that
FRIDAY, MARCH 3
A fun-filled evening packed with interactive science activities, exhibit exploration after dark, dancing and more for girls in K-5 and their father figure. $20/person. 5:30-8:30pm, COX SCIENCE CENTER AND AQUARIUM, 4801 Dreher Trail N., West Palm Beach, www.coxsciencecenter.org
Dinofest
SATURDAY, MARCH 11
Little ones can enjoy dino-themed fun including a Fossil Finders Lab, face painting, a dino egg hunt, a dinosaur explorer exhibit and more. $20.95/adult, $16.95/child. 10am-3pm, COX SCIENCE CANTER AND AQUARIUM, 4801 Dreher Trail N., West Palm Beach, www.coxsciencecenter.org
may include painting, drawing, origami and more. All ages. 2-5pm, WEST FLAGLER
BRANCH LIBRARY, 5050 W. Flagler St., Miami, www.mdpls.org
Carnaval on the Mile
SATURDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 4-5
A celebration of all things Miami including art, music, fashion, food and sports. Free. ALONG MIRACLE MILE, Coral Gables, www.carnavalmiami.com
Dog Date Stroll
SUNDAYS, MARCH 5, 12, 19 & 26
Bring your pup for a stroll through the lush gardens. $24.95/adult, $11.95/child. 8-10am, FAIRCHILD TROPICAL BOTANIC GARDEN, 10901 Old Cutler Rd., Miami, www.fairchildgarden.org
Miami-Dade County
Youth Fair & Expo
MARCH 16-APRIL 9
Carnival-style rides, food, games and fun for the whole family. MIAMI-DADE COUNTY FAIR GROUNDS, 10901 Coral Way, Miami, 305-223-7060 www.fairexpo.com
Stargazing
FRIDAY, MARCH 10
Bring your telescope to enjoy a night under the stars by a bonfire. $5/adult, $2/child. 6-9pm, REDLAND FRUIT AND SPICE PARK, 24801 SW 187 Ave., Homestead www.redlandfruitandspice.com
Dino Dash 5K Fun Run
SATURDAY, MARCH 11
Dress as your favorite dinosaur and sprint through tree-lined neighborhoods with your family. $30/person. 8am, EVELYN GREER PARK, 8200 SW 124 St., Pinecrest, www.pinecrest-fl.gov
Furry Tales
SATURDAY, MARCH 11
Children can improve literacy skills and gain
SATURDAY, MARCH 11
Wear green and head to this family-friendly event featuring a parade from noon-2pm from Atlantic Avenue from the Intracoastal Waterway to NW Fifth Avenue and festival from 1-7pm at OLD SCHOOL SQUARE with live music, food trucks, vendors, music and more. Free. Noon-7pm, 561-243-7452 www.stpatsdelray.com
THURSDAY, MARCH 23
A fun-filled family show starring talented rescue dogs. $18/adult, $12/child. 11am & 2pm, WILLOW THEATER AT SUGAR SAND PARK, 300 S. Military Trail, Boca Raton 561-347-3900 www.sugarsandpark.org
TUESDAYS-SUNDAYS
Watch as the sharks and rays are fed and learn about their characteristics. 1pm, SANDOWAY DISCOVERY CENTER, 142 S. Ocean Blvd., Delray Beach, 561-274-7263 www.sandoway.org
confidence by reading to registered therapy dog, Charlie Brown. 10-11am, CONCORD BRANCH LIBRARY, 3882 SW 112 Ave., Miami, www.mdpls.org
Teen Chat and Crafts
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15
In celebration of Women’s History Month, teens can explore the art of Frida Kahlo by making a floral headband. Ages 12-18. 3-5pm, MIAMI BEACH REGIONAL LIBRARY, 227 22 St., Miami Beach, www.mdpls.org
SATURDAY, MARCH 18
An all-new show with jaw-dropping magic and illusions. $42 and up. 3 & 7 pm, AVENTURA ARTS & CULTURAL CENTER, 3385 NE 188 St., Aventura, www.aventuracenter.org
SUNDAY, MARCH 26
Festival
A fun-filled event with fresh seafood, chef demonstrations, live activities and kids’ activities. 10am-6pm, DEERING ESTATE, 16701 SW 72 Ave., Miami, www.deeringestate.org
Family Day
SUNDAY, MARCH 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
THURSDAYS
Little ones learn all about nature through crafts, garden exploration and story time. Ages 5 and under with caregiver. $10/child. 10am-noon, DELRAY BEACH CHILDREN’S GARDEN, 137 SW Second Ave., Delray Beach, www.delraybeachchildrensgarden.org
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.
Isat in front of the little screen and began scrolling through my feed. This is where I used to find cute pictures of my friend’s kids or a vacation I would instantly be jealous of. Now I am bombarded with an endless list of things that will make me a better version of myself.
I could make this my BEST YEAR YET, the headline screams. I only need to click and see all that I can do in six easy steps to make this year better than last year. Maybe I won’t feel so frazzled, I think. Or maybe I’ll get everywhere I need to be on time. Now wouldn’t that be a miracle? Surely, this is the answer. And I click to see what it will take.
If only I keep scrolling I’d see the diet that will fix it all. Actually, it’s not really a diet. That word isn’t socially acceptable anymore. It’s the eating and exercise plan that will make my life amazing. I’ll lose weight and be happy and sleep well and be clear-headed and I click to find the answers.
Sign me up for another course/email/webinar. Anything that will help.
And the more I scroll, the more I find.
The meal service that will make my family magically sit at the table for 30 whole minutes smiling and talking about our day.
The bra that will change the way I carry myself because my girls will be where they’re meant to be. And it will magically happen in a one size fits all stretchy piece of fabric because we’re all really the same and the fabric is in fact magic.
The financial plan that will make all the difference. No more debt. No more credit cards. No more money fights. Plus, I will be able to buy that dream house by the ocean. All for the bargain price of…
And I’m tired. I’m worn out from being told how to be better, do more, and be less me. The truth is this isn’t about the Facebook feed at all. We’ve subscribed to the notion that improvement means overhauling who we are to become what someone else says we should be.
There’s selfimprovement and there’s losing yourself. Only you can prevent one from leading to the other.
If you want the meal delivery service because it will truly help you, then give an enthusiastic YES and click to sign up. But, if you want the meal delivery service because you’re trying to create a different version of your life that doesn’t even exist, it will never work.
We live in an age where anything we want to know or learn or become is at our fingertips. But when all we are doing is trying to become, we miss out on who we already are.
There is no perfect. There is no one size fits all formula, no matter what the magic bra says. And that’s good. Because we aren’t supposed to be the same.
Is making changes and choices bad? Absolutely not. Constantly striving to be someone other than who we are is when we lose out. The world doesn’t need us all to fit in the same bra. The world needs us all to be the best version of who we already are.
Choose wisely, friend. Think about who you are and be grateful. Think about the things that you honestly do want to improve and think about how to make that happen. But whatever you do, don’t forget that you are already amazing.
Rebecca Hastings is a writer, speaker and mom of three who embraces being true to herself.
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.
nicklauschildrens.org/Spine
William has congenital scoliosis and a fighting chance