August 2023

GET READY FOR BACK-TO-SCHOOL!

Lunch box tips, backpacks, homeschooling + MORE!

FALL PREVIEW: Halloween events & pumpkin patches

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS:

Trailblazing students share path to success

Photo taken at Tampa Heights Elementary Magnet School

FOR LOCAL FAMILIES. BY LOCAL FAMILIES.

2023

Infant | Toddler | Preschool

Developmental Screenings

Ages: Birth to Five

Thursday, July 20, 2023 | American Youth Academy: 5902 E. 130th Ave., Tampa, FL 33617

Friday, August 25, 2023 | South Tampa Fellowship Church: 5101 Bayshore Blvd., Tampa, FL 33611

Thursday, September 28, 2023 | City Life Church Dale Mabry: 8411 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa, FL 33614

Friday, October 27, 2023 | Grace Point Church Plant City: 1107 Charlie Griffin Rd., Plant City, FL 33566

Friday, November 17, 2023 | Our Lady of Guadalupe: 16650 US Highway 301 S., Wimauma, Florida 33598

Thursday, December 21, 2023 |

Children’s Board of Hillsborough County - Central: 1002 E. Palm Ave., Tampa, FL 33605

Thursday, January 25, 2024 | City Life Church East Lake: 6616 E. Chelsea St., Tampa, FL 33610

813-837-7723 (English) 813-837-7714 (Spanish)

Start a screening online at www.ecctampabay.org

Screenings are held from 8:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.

*By appointment only - Email ScreeningManager@ecctampabay.org

Areas Screened

ʝ Vision

ʝ Hearing

ʝ Speech

ʝ Language

ʝ Behavior

ʝ Overall Development

Appointments will be scheduled as calls are received, so don’t delay your reservation.

Your Source for Exceptional Pediatric Care

With more than 200 pediatricians, pediatric specialists and family medicine physicians in Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas and Polk counties, care for your family is always nearby.

As the area’s premier pediatric providers, we’ll continue to help your children stay healthy with a wide range of services, including:

n Asthma management

n Extended care: Weekend and holiday hours

n Hospital newborn care

n Immunizations

n New baby care

n Pediatric sick visits

n Well baby waiting room

n Well child care

Find a pediatrician and make an appointment: BMGKids.org

n Now accepting new patients.

n Most major insurance plans are accepted.

n Online scheduling available

For assistance with a referral: (855) 466-6686

CREATIVE DIRECTOR AND EDITORIAL MANAGER

Laura Byrne

ASSOCIATE EDITORS

Anu Varma Panchal

Brie Gorecki

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Sarah Rigby

OPERATIONS ASSISTANT

Zoe Joiner

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Laura Byrne

Brie Gorecki

Anu Varma Panchal

Tara Payor, PhD

Jenny P.

Julie Tingley

Laura Cross

Maggie Rodriguez

Ashley Davis

Ana Juarez

Denise Mestanza-Taylor

Kiran Malik-Khan

Lou Romig, MD, FAAP, FACEP

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Ralf Gonzalez

Jim Byrne

LAYOUT & DESIGN

Jennifer Dufek

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Laura Byrne

Jenny P.

Artistry By Arielle

Denise Mestanza-Taylor

BOOKKEEPING

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Fax 813-315-6688 info@tbparenting.com editor@tbparenting.com

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Meet the guest editor

Dear Parents,

During my childhood summers, my favorite activity was playing, and if you know me well, you can probably guess my preferred game: school. Unsurprisingly, I always assumed the role of the teacher, with my younger sister and my dolls as the eager students. My parents supported my enthusiasm and furnished my "classroom" with a chalkboard and an electric pencil sharpener. The phrase "school’s out for summer" did not apply to this determined little girl.

As I grew older, my hobbies evolved, but my curiosity and love for learning remained constant. My parents strongly believed in the value of learning through observation and new experiences. I will forever be grateful for the opportunities they provided, exposing me to different ways of life through travel. Even without a camera, I captured memories as mental pictures, which now serve as a scrapbook I often revisit today. This trait is something I have lovingly passed down to my two equally inquisitive children.

It came as no surprise when I decided to become a teacher, especially to my prized student, my little sister. In fact, I had been practicing for many years. Throughout my 18-year career in education, primarily at Corbett Prep, I have continued to capture mental pictures of moments that shape a new scrapbook. While these moments may not always be picture-perfect, they serve as my guide.

Tampa Bay Parenting is published twelve times per year and distributed throughout the Tampa Bay community. Tampa Bay Parenting is not responsible for any errors, inaccuracies, omissions or incorrect information (or the consequences related thereto) contained within the magazine or online; readers should not rely on any information contained in the magazine and they should always consult with an appropriate professional for guidance. Tampa Bay Parenting accepts no responsibility for the consequences of error or for any loss or damage suffered by users of any of the information or materials provided by Tampa Bay Parenting. Some content published by Tampa Bay Parenting is sponsored or paid for advertising content, and some individuals quoted or cited in articles have paid for advertising or sponsorships; this content or opinions do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of Tampa Bay Parenting.

Now, as a new school year approaches, I am moving from the classroom into a leadership role as Corbett Prep’s new Director of Elementary Student Success where I will have the privilege of working with more students. I eagerly anticipate the moments that will create a fresh set of mental pictures, another new scrapbook of the "light bulb" moments that every educator lives for. Being a part of a student’s learning journey at a school that prioritizes a child-centered education feels like the cherry on top for the little girl who preferred to spend her summers teaching.

Ashley Davis

Ashley Davis is an educator with nearly 20 years of experience, most recently as a kindergarten teacher at Corbett Prep, a private independent school in North Tampa. She and her husband, Matt, have a daughter, Savannah, 11, and a son, Rhett, 6.

Director of Elementary Student Success at Corbett Preparatory School of IDS

Articles

12 // COVER STORY: Meet a few trailblazing students from Hillsborough County Public Schools as they share their advice for success.

15 // Advocating for your Child: How to ensure your child has all the resources and support they need to be successful in school.

16 // Friends & Feelings: Dealing with emotions about friends and other kids.

18 // Getting Young Learners Ready for a Successful School Year: 7 tips to prepare kids for the upcoming school year.

20 // Kids, Arts and Your Local Libraries: Enriching our children with the power of art appreciation.

22 // Clothes to Kids: How you can help this local non-profit that helps build kids' wardrobes and self confidence.

23 // United for Student Success: How parents and teachers unite to help students’ overall academic success.

24 // Home Sweet Homeschool: Local resources for Tampa Bay families to kick off their homeschool journey.

27 // How to Pick and Wear a Backpack: Backpack safety tips to help prevent injury.

28 // Back to School with Lunchboxmafia: Jenny P. from @lunchboxmafia shares backto-school lunch ideas to make packing easy and stress-free.

31 // Island Adventures in The City : Tampa’s own Adventure Island Water Park is the perfect way to spend a hot day.

ON THE COVER:

Meet just a few outstanding students of Hillsborough County Public Schools: Arin Motte (freshman at Middleton High School), Suchi Patel (senior at Middleton High School), Bridget Bohan (7th grader at Randall Middle School), and Justice Jones (5th grader at Hunters Green Elementary). Read more about their accomplishments and tips for kids as they embark on a new school year on page 12.

32 // Fall Season Event Preview: We're sharing a sneak peek at some awesome fall events that kick-off as early as this month!

38 // Sulphur Springs Garden Club Helps the Community Bloom: The Garden Club at Sulphur Springs PK-8 Community Partnership School teaches students the benefits of growing a garden.

41 // Isabella’s Tale: How TGH’s Pediatric GI Program Came to the Rescue.

44 // Doctor's Orders: Expert Tips on Preparing Your Child for a Healthy School Year.

Every Issue:

8 // Noteworthy: What’s new in Tampa Bay.

11 // August Top Picks: Explore our favorite things to do this month with the kids.

34 // Moms to Know: Meet Eileen Esposito, music therapist, recording artist, and owner of The Sunflower Patch.

37 // Kids to Know: Meet 13-year-old Mason Hawk, a Tampa Prep baseball player who started a fundraising initiative to help local children.

46 // What’s Trending on TampaBayParenting.com: Check out some of the most popular stories and events.

School Lunch

Box Ideas

Fall Preview

Creatures of the Night at ZooTampa

NOTEWORTHY august

Calling all budding marine biologists!

On Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., snorkel the sandbars of Tampa Bay with Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center at St. Pete Pier. It’s the perfect opportunity for aspiring and first-time snorkelers to discover the world under the sea. Come face to face with hermit crabs, sponges, sea stars and more! An educator will be there to teach you all about the animals you encounter. tbwdiscoverycenter.org.

Immerse yourself into the world of Dalí Alive 360

This all-new immersive experience celebrates the life and creative genius of Salvador Dalí. This multi-sensory art experience will envelop visitors in 360 degrees of light and sound within a monumental new space—The Dalí Dome at the Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg. Discover Dalí’s surreal landscapes, iconic melting clocks and mind-bending illusions from throughout his lifetime in an incredibly unique way. thedali.org

Last call for boarding!

LEGOLAND Florida Resort’s Flying School, one of the roller coasters original to Cypress Gardens Adventure Park, will make its final flight on Aug. 16 - National Roller Coaster Day. Don’t miss your chance to soar through the clouds on this epic flight of thrills one last time before it makes way for future awesomeness! Get your tickets and annual passes at legoland.com/florida

Make a splash at Shaka-Laka Shores

Adventure Island’s newest interactive splash pad is the perfect way to keep cool. The zero-depth area features 25 play elements, an awesome kidfriendly play structure, and a variety of interactive aquatic components to entertain even the littlest guppies. adventureisland.com

It’s time for Jr. Bucs season

Football season is right around the corner and the Bucs have a great way for even the youngest of fans to be part of the action. The Jr. Bucs Fan Club is the official fan club for Bucs fans ages 14 and under. The one-time registration fee of $24.99 includes invites to exclusive Bucs events, a welcome kit with a Jr. Bucs backpack, hat, football, lanyard and membership card, access to the Jr. Bucs Kids Zone at every home game and more! Sign up at buccaneers.com/fans/jr-bucs

New brews and bites at MOSI

MOSI is celebrating the opening of Zydeco Brew Werks! The New Orleans-style brewery, whose original location is in Ybor, boasts an array of New Orleans-inspired dishes along with kidfriendly fare. There’s also a full bar with MOSI-inspired items, including the craft beers that made Zydeco famous. mosi.org

A COLOSSAL EXHIBIT 66

MILLION YEARS IN THE MAKING

Go nose to nose with Big John, the World’s Largest Triceratops, in an immersive and playful dinosaur exhibit for all ages at the Glazer

Children’s Museum in Downtown Tampa. OPEN NOW | BIGJOHNDINO.COM

BY

THE

PLUS: VISIT US AT BRICK FAN FEST

Meet Baby John, GCM’s roar-some 17ft long Triceratops costume, August 19-20!

BRICKFANFEST.COM

PRESENTED

AND THE LAFACE FAMILY

FROM

PAGIDIPATI FAMILY COLLECTION

august Top Picks

Our favorite family-friendly events in Tampa Bay

Keel & Curley 20 Year Celebration

AUG. 5

Keel & Curley Winery is celebrating 20 years! During this family and pet-friendly event, you can check out local artists, small businesses, handmade art, baked goods, a special wine release and more. Visit Dinosaur World beforehand and show your wristband to receive one free kid’s meal with adult entrée purchase! keelfarms.com

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

AUG. 11-NOV. 1

This frightfully fun experience returns to Magic Kingdom! On select nights, join your favorite Disney characters for Halloween fun like the Not-So-Spooky Spectacular fireworks show, Hocus Pocus Villain Spectacular and Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade. Wear your costume and trick or treat around the park, enjoy fun, themed Photo Pass experiences, and more! disneyworld.disney.go.com

Monster Jam at Amalie Arena

AUG. 19

The most unexpected, unscripted and unforgettable motorsports experience for families and fans in the world today returns to Tampa this summer for two adrenalinecharged shows at Amalie Arena, marking the first Monster Jam arena event back in this venue since 2019 and highlighted by unleashing the all-new 2023 debut truck ThunderROARus™, appearing for the first time in Tampa! monsterjam.com

save the date

90s Con 2023

SEPT. 15-17

Menagerie at the Museum: Animals • Art • Adventure

AUG. 19, 11 A.M. TO 3 P.M. Head over to The James Museum in downtown St. Pete for an afternoon of Animals, Art and Adventure! This family-friendly indoor event features real owls, hawks, kestrels, eagles, snakes, alligators, lemurs, skunks, miniature horses and more. The reduced $5 admissions ticket also includes access to the entire museum, so be sure to check out their new wildlife exhibition, Un/Natural Selections. All the animals are at The James Museum this summer! thejamesmuseum.org

Brick Fan Fest – A LEGO Fan Event

AUG. 19 & 20

Calling all LEGO fans! Head to the Florida State Fairgrounds to check out amazing LEGO creations, large LEGO displays, LEGO fan creations, play games and meet Brick mascots. Create your own LEGO build, compete with others in a LEGO Master Build Challenge and peruse the rows of LEGO vendors to find missing pieces or add to your Minifigure collection. brickfanfest.com

Keeping Our Kids Safe

AUG. 26

The Children’s Board of Hillsborough will host this event to help caregivers learn ways to keep their loved one(s) safe in partnership with the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office and Gracepoint Wellness. Other partners in attendance will be the City of Tampa, CARD at USF and the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay.

Get ready to have a radical time at 90s Con 2023! Taking place at the Tampa Convention Center, 90s Con will include panels and photo ops with 90s fan favorites. Meet cast members from “Full House,” “Saved by The Bell,” “Sabrina the Teenage Witch,” and much more. Members of Backstreet Boys, N*Sync, and TLC will also be there snapping selfies. thats4entertainment.com/90scon

Busch Gardens Spooktacular

SEPT. 8-OCT. 31

On Saturdays and Sundays, little ghouls and goblins can celebrate Halloween with trick-or-treating, costume parades, entertainment and more during this familyfriendly event. This year, it will also be held on Monday, Oct. 30 and Tuesday, Oct. 31. Included with general admission. buschgardens.com/tampa

WANT MORE? SCAN THE QR CODE FOR WEEKEND TOP PICKS

Brick Fan Fest

Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

Keeping Our Kids Safe

HILLSBOROUGH STRONG:

JUSTICE JONES BRIDGET BOHAN

Rising Fifth-Grader, Hunters Green Elementary, Tampa

Award: Hillsborough County Elementary Fine Arts Festival, All County Modern Band Drummer

On his passion for music: “I love to do what I do because I just love music entirely. It’s a big thing in my life.”

Advice to other kids who want to reach big goals with their music: “For sure you need to persevere every single day, and you need to practice every single day.

Plans for the future: “I’d probably like to get into a really good band.”

Reflections about his teachers: “My music teacher inspires me because she pushes me through and practices with me.”

Rising Seventh-Grader, Randall Middle School, Lithia

Award: Florida first-place middle school winner for her film “Finding Your Voice” at the Florida State Reflections Art Contest hosted by the National Parent Teacher Association.

How her school helped support her: “My entire school is really supportive of me. My friends helped me with the video a lot, and I think that just all of them being excited that I was doing it was really helpful.”

Plans for the future: “I’ve always loved theater and film and I’d love to do something like that as an adult. I think this definitely helped me realize my potential.”

Advice to kids about achieving big goals: “Just find something you love and if you really do love it, put your soul into it. Just do it. Find something you love and stick with it. Don’t give up. The only way you are going to find that is if you keep trying.”

Meet trailblazing students doing incredible things in music, media and technology.

ARIN MOTTE SUCHI PATEL

From Rodgers Middle Magnet School, Rising Freshman, Middleton High School, Tampa

Award: Member of the Rodgers Middle Magnet School Robotics team that won First Place in the Junior Exhibition at the 2023 Robofest World Championship: Vito the Medical Helping Robot.

About Vito the Robot: “He’s designed to track the color of a scrub the nurse is wearing and use the color sensor from the VEX V5 kit to track the color of that scrub and follow a program that is set to follow the nurse into a room based on a range of the size of that color. He’s also designed to help kids feel more calm and safe in a hospital environment because a lot more kids nowadays are a lot more inclined to technology, and he normally has a friendly face on his monitor and he also demonstrates what’s going to be happening.”

Inspiration to create Vito the Medical Helping Robot: “My parents work in a medical environment. My dad works in a hospital, and they’ve seen patients scared of things such as blood pressure (cuffs) because of how it squeezes on the arm, so I wanted to make something that would help with that fear.”

Thoughts on why kids need access to programs like robotics in public schools: “I think it’s very important for kids to have access to these resources so that they not only get to try things out, but also get to experience it for the future and be able to do a lot more than they ever thought they could.”

What she’d like to study in college: Aerospace engineering

Rising Senior, Middleton High School, Tampa

Award: Winner of the 2022 Congressional App Challenge for District 15 Florida for her myRx app.

About the myRX app: “It’s a prescription usage tracker. It allows users to put in their prescriptions and any other medications and track adverse drug-to-drug interactions, adverse drug-to-food interactions and really be a platform for older patients that are not technologically nuanced to really understand the ins and outs of prescriptions and manage them in a cohesive way. It allows them to take care of themselves through technology without struggling to read labels or having to ask doctors—and really have that one-onone support on the app.”

App launch: “The first week of November is when I’m going to do a big launch and I’m really excited for that because I know that it will bring so many people in the community a key resource that will help them.”

How her school helped support her goals: “My school’s programs really gave me the rigor and academic excellence I needed to first of all come up with this idea and, in the end, pursue it, because it’s one thing to have an idea, but to move forward with it and fulfill it to the best of your ability, that is something my school’s programs really instilled in me.”

What inspired her to create the myRX app: “My grandfather—he’s a diabetic patient. He had to visit the ER due to an adverse drug interaction we weren’t aware of. That really opened my eyes to how many patients must be in the ER or facing complicated risks just due to this simple mistake that could have been avoided.”

On what motivates her everyday: “I’m inspired by my gurus Mahant Swami Maharaj and Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Mahant Swami Maharaj’s life motto was ‘In the joy of others lies our own.’ I really want to take care of our community like he did. And Pramukh Swami Maharaj motivated me to ‘Do the best and leave the rest.’ Those two quotes really inspire me every single day to wake up and think about how I can impact the real world and how I can be a person of change.”

What she’d like to study in college: Public health policy and computer science

Long term career goals: To create cutting edge medical devices and reduce the medical inequities that face the world today.

Behind every great kid is not only a great teacher, but a great family too! A job well done, parents!

WELCOME to Hillsborough County Public Schools

Where talented students, phenomenal teachers, and dedicated employees come together to create an exceptional teaching and learning environment!

Ranked the seventh largest school district in the nation, Hillsborough County Public Schools provides high-quality education, award-winning programs, and career pathways for all students. Our dedicated educators foster a supportive and engaging learning environment while providing innovative resources and technologies to prepare students for life.

Visit Hillsboroughschools.org to learn how we can help your child unlock their full potential and achieve great success!

www.HillsboroughSchools.org

Following this simple path can help parents find a solution.

Advocating for your Child

by Laura Cross

As parents, we are the number one advocate for our children when it comes to their educational journey. Ensuring that your child has all the resources and support they need to be successful is our top priority as well in Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS).

In a large district like HCPS, it may be difficult for parents to know where to turn when a question or challenge arises, but there is an easy path to follow.

Colleen Faucett, HCPS region superintendent, says your child’s teacher should always be the first point of contact. “If your child is struggling in the classroom setting, the teacher is the best first person to assist in solving the problem,” says Faucett. “From clarity of the issue to developing next steps at resolution, the professional in the classroom is equipped and ready.”

On the rare instance your child’s classroom teacher can’t assist with the issue, your next best course of action is the assistant principal or guidance counselor.

“As a parent, we want our concerns to be addressed and resolved as soon as possible,” explains Faucett. “APs and guidance counselors work directly with students on a daily basis. Parents who request to meet with

the principal first may often have a delayed resolution. Certainly, if resolution by the guidance counselor or AP is not found, the next step is to meet in person with the principal.”

Okay, so you’ve gone to the teacher, the AP and the principal, and you’re still not satisfied.

Now it’s time to reach out to a region superintendent, like Faucett.

“One of my roles as a region superintendent is to assist parents and community members with concerns they have at a specific school site. Often in talking with a parent, I am surprised when they share that they have not met or even talked to the principal. However, if they have met with the principal without resolution, parents are encouraged to call the district office.”

The last point of contact would be the chief of schools. Hillsborough County’s chief of schools is Susan Burkett. Contacting Burkett, who oversees more than 200 schools, really should be the last resort. “While parents are always welcome to reach out to the chief of schools, there are multiple levels of employees in between the classroom teacher and chief of schools that are in place specifically to resolve concerns,” Faucett explains.

It’s always tempting to go straight to the top, especially where your child is concerned. However, by following the correct chain of command, your concern will likely get resolved much more quickly and easily than skipping the process that’s put in place to help.

Who is your child’s region superintendent? Visit hillsboroughschools.org/advocate to find out.

Left to right: Dunbar Elementary Magnet School Principal Cynthia Crim, 5th-grade English Language Arts Teacher Julianna Orr, and Assistant Principal Alexandra Quintyne.

Teacher Assistant principal/ guidance counselor

Principal Region superintendent Chief of schools

Friends & Feelings

by Maggie Rodriguez, co-host of Daytime on WFLA News Channel 8

Friendships come with feelings that children don’t always know how to handle. Knowing how to respond in the face of anxiety, jealousy, anger and guilt could determine whether their relationships blossom or wither. Licensed psychologist Eileen Kennedy-Moore, author of “Kid Confidence” and “Growing Friendships,” shares some tips from her latest book, “Growing Feelings: A Kids’ Guide to Dealing with Emotions About Friends and Other Kids.”

TBPM: What should we parents advise our children when they feel shy or anxious around friends or other kids?

EKM: The most important thing to know about anxiety is that we must stay in the water to get used to it, and no amount of standing at the edge of the pool is going to help kids get used to the water. So, no amount of avoiding being around other kids is going to help kids get used to it. Often what gets in the way of kids reaching out is what I call the “Magnet Myth” of friendship. That’s the belief that we have to be so amazing and wonderful that people are drawn to us the way a magnet attracts metal. That’s not how friendship works. We don’t have to be amazing.

As far as actions are concerned, it may be helpful to have some idea of what to say. One example is the great-plus-one-fact formula. When someone asks, “How are you?” Or “How was your weekend?” if we just respond, “Fine,” that’s a conversation ender. If we respond with “Great!” that shows enthusiasm. Then if we add one fact, something the listener can picture in their mind, that keeps the conversation going.

TBPM: How about feeling jealous, like when a friend has another friend?

EKM: That’s a hard one! There are two things that definitely won’t work: One is being an octopus friend and trying to squeeze the friend tightly and keep them all to yourself. That will just make the friend want to get away! The other is trying to divide the friend evenly and keep score about what you get and what the other friend gets. If you look for unfairness, you’re going to find it. A friend is not a birthday cake that you can cut into pieces.

One way to handle this situation is to try to befriend the friend’s friend. If your friend likes that kid, you might, too. It’s also a kind thing to be open to that friendship.

But friendship threesomes can be tricky. If you picture a triangle where each point represents a kid, it’s hard to keep every line connecting them exactly the same at all times. So, another good strategy is to expand the triangle by including a fourth or even a fifth friend. That tends to lower the tension.

TBPM: What about guilt? How can kids handle that?

EKM: Guilt is useful because it’s that pinch of conscience that tells us, “Ooh, I shouldn’t have done that.” It’s important to recognize that everyone makes mistakes, and we can learn from them. One of the best things to do when we’ve hurt someone is to apologize.

TBPM: What’s the best way to apologize?

EKM: We need to say, “I’m sorry for…” and say what we did. Then, if we can, say what we’re going to do to make things right or from now on. Also, never apologize more than twice because that erases the apology. Think about it: the first apology is good, the second apology, we might add for emphasis, but after that? Saying, “I’m sorry! I’m sorry! I’m sorry!

I’m sorry!” shifts the attention off the injured person and onto you, so they have to comfort you, which is backward!

TBPM: What about anger? We, as adults, can have a hard time dealing with this emotion. What about children?

EKM: It’s tempting to lash out when we’re angry, but there’s zero possibility that someone will respond to nastiness by being nice. The louder we yell, the harder it is for people to hear us, because they don’t want to listen!

Sometimes, I hear kids say that they argue all the time with their friend. Well, then their friendship is at risk. If there’s too much conflict, a friendship won’t survive. The effects of positive and negative actions on friendships are not equal. Doing kind things for a friend or having fun with them is like adding a marble to a bag; it adds up little by little. Doing something mean is like ripping the seam out of the bottom of the bag—all marbles drain out quickly.

TBPM: What’s the best way to handle it when you realize you’ve been unkind to a friend or vice versa?

EKM: We adults tend to want kids to talk everything out, and it’s important for kids to learn how to do that using “I” statements, avoiding accusations, listening as well as talking. But negotiation and compromise doesn’t become the main way kids resolve conflicts until age 19. Often kids get past rough spots by just separating for a bit, so tempers can cool, and then coming together and just being kind.

If your child has a question about friendship, submit it at DrFriendtastic. com and then listen for the answer on Dr. Kennedy-Moore’s podcast, Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic.

Getting Young Learners Ready for a Successful School Year: 7 Tips to Prepare

by Ashley Davis

Regardless of how many first days of school you have experienced, it’s normal to feel butterflies this time of year as the annual milestone approaches. Students, parents and even teachers view the upcoming school year with excitement and nervous anticipation, with everyone eager to start off on the right foot.

At home, parents may pick the perfect outfit for their kids, organize school supplies and plan healthy breakfasts and lunches. They may review sight words or math facts or

ask children to practice writing their names. All are valuable, but preparing for school goes beyond academic readiness and full backpacks.

Students—especially young learners who are brand-new to school or in the early grades—may have questions during the summer about what their school days will look like or what teachers expect. Their social and emotional needs deserve attention, too, and some simple efforts can ensure a successful start.

Practice essential skills. Developing independence is an important part of students’ experiences. If you’re used to taking over for your child, now’s the time to step back. Have your child practice unzipping, emptying, packing and zipping their backpack, and make sure they know how to open and close their lunchbox as well. If your lunches include small containers, packaged meals or juice boxes, serve meals at home that are packed the same way so your child can practice opening lids and pushing straws into drinks. This helps them feel confident about their new accessories, and they won’t get flustered at the end of lunch or the school day.

Ease into the routine.

Lazy summer days feel great until you have to set your alarm again. Start gradually adjusting your child to a school schedule several weeks before classes start. Move your bedtime or wake-up time up 15 minutes or a half hour over the course of several days until you reach your school alarm time to let your body adjust. If your child is starting kindergarten but still naps at home, you will also want to work on phasing out midday snoozing.

Familiarize your child with the school.

Take a drive by the school and discuss it with them. How long does it take to get there? What familiar landmarks did you see along the way? If your child takes the bus, where is the bus stop? Where will you wait for them? Look for opportunities to come inside buildings as well. Corbett Prep hosts meet-and-greet sessions before school begins where students can meet teachers, walk through classrooms and drop off supplies. In Corbett Prep’s elementary multiage classrooms, which combine two grades, older students attend leadership training before school to learn how to make younger classmates feel more comfortable.

Encourage your child to practice completing tasks. These can be simple tasks like cleaning up their toys or finishing a puzzle. This fosters a sense of responsibility and independence and develops executive functioning skills.

Build excitement with a bucket list.

A fun end-of-summer activity is to help kids create a beginning-ofthe-year bucket list of items they can easily check off during the first weeks of school. Brainstorm ideas together, such as setting a goal to talk to a new person, bring a different food in their lunchbox, play a new game on the playground, learn their teachers’ names and more. Bucket lists increase excitement for the adventures ahead and may become a family tradition every August.

Turn listening to directions into a game.

Help your child practice listening to multi-step directions that deviate from their usual routine. This important skill is crucial for their early childhood development and will help them in the classroom setting when listening to teachers. You can make practice fun. Add silly steps to regular requests, such as “hop to go get your shoes,” or come up with an outlandish series of activities (“walk to the kitchen, spin in a circle, clap your hands and sing Happy Birthday”).

Introduce emotional check-ins.

Encourage your kids to express their emotions openly. Regularly check in with them about how they're feeling, offering support and validation. Assure them that it's normal to have conflicting feelings about the first day: happiness, worry, maybe sadness about summer ending. The peach-and-pit or roseand-thorn methods help reluctant talkers to open up as they name a rose (something positive) they experienced at school and a thorn (something they wish was better). This prompts kids to think about specific answers when you ask about their day and helps them identify a positive moment even on their hardest days.

Try these seven practical and fun tips before classes begin to ensure a smooth transition into a new year.

Remember, every child is unique, and it's important to approach the first day of school with empathy and understanding. By focusing on their social and emotional readiness, you can set the stage for a successful start to the school year.

Ashley Davis has taught for 18 years, primarily at Corbett Prep in North Tampa, and is beginning a new role this fall as the private school’s Director of Elementary Student Success.

The author generated this image with text in part with GPT3, OpenAI’s large-scale languagegeneration model.

Kids, Arts and your Local Libraries

by Ana Juarez, Fine Arts Registrar at Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries

How do I introduce more art into my child’s life?

Art is all around us in both tangible (paintings or sculpture) and intangible (like songs, oral traditions and performing arts) expressions.

A good place to start interesting your child in art is through action: looking and talking. If you and your child find yourselves looking at a work of art, start by inviting questions and responses from them.

Here are some tips:

• Ask open-ended questions like ‘What do you see?’ that allow your child multiple entry points to engage.

• Draw them in with follow-up questions or remarks.

• Celebrate your child’s contributions, including “off-topic” comments.

• Encourage them to provide evidence for their ideas. “Why did you say the dog in the picture was hungry? What makes you think that?”

• Keep conversations casual, not like a test or lecture.

Masterpieces hanging behind glass don’t usually evoke kid-friendly scenarios. But don’t discount the power of engaging with the arts—it holds greater gains for children than you might imagine. What can

In 2004, the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) published “Imagine! Introducing Your Child to the Arts,” and nearly 20 years later, its core values still hold true. It states that children who engage with the arts:

• Are able to attach visual images to words and abstract ideas

• Grasp relationships in their environment

• Gain insight to construct meaning by observation, reflection and application of ideas

Although the NEA’s skill development is geared towards children up to age 8, these skills are fine-tuned through their use and beneficial at any age. Thanks to museum education experts, we can now add that kids who engage with the arts:

• Develop critical thinking skills

• Develop a sense of curiosity about their world

• Learn about people and perspectives that are different from their own

These are all important skills to develop and explore.

SOURCES

By creating opportunities to carefully observe and discuss art, we apply previous experiences and knowledge to make meaning. However, it is also important to allow these moments to flow naturally. Don’t rush or linger beyond the point of interest. Think about the quality of the discussion triumphing over the quantity of art seen. Here are some additional ideas:

• Play a game when traveling in which your child searches for art in the environment.

• Encourage imagination. For example, while viewing a painting of a dog, you could ask: 'What would that dog sound like? How does their fur feel?’

• Ask them to imagine what happens next in a scene.

ART IN YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY

Did you know that many libraries in the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library (HCPLC) system have art on display? A visit to your library is free and full of learning opportunities: pick up a book, visit story time, grab an activity to-go, or spend a moment with art.

HCPLC is home to permanent art collections held in trust for residents of all ages to learn from and enjoy. Many libraries boast community galleries. These include the Brandon Regional Library, C. Blythe Andrews, Jr. Public Library, John F. Germany Public Library, North Tampa Branch Library and the Robert W. Saunders, Sr. Public Library. See all upcoming events by searching the library’s online calendar.

About Visual Thinking Strategies (VTS). (n.d.). Vtshome.org. https://vtshome.org/about/

Andre, L., Durksen, T. & Volman, M.L. Museums as avenues of learning for children: a decade of research. Learning Environ Res 20, 47–76 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10984-016-9222-9

Association of Children’s Museums. (2022). http://www.childrensmuseums.org/about/faq.htm. Accessed January 18, 2023.

Danko-McGhee, Ph.D, K., & Shaffer, Ph.D, S. (2002). Looking At Art With Toddlers (Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center, Ed.) [Review of Looking At Art With Toddlers]. Https://Www.si.edu/Seec/Resources. https://www.si.edu/content/seec/docs/article-artwithtoddlers.pdf

National Endowment for the Arts. (2004). Imagine! Introducing Your Child to the Arts (S. Shaffer, Ed.) [Review of Imagine! Introducing Your Child to the Arts]. Arts.gov. https://www.arts.gov/sites/default/files/imagine.pdf

Raso, C. (2017, November 29). Inviting Children In: Valuing The Youngest Museum Visitors. American Alliance of Museums. https://www.aam-us.org/2017/11/29/inviting-children-in-valuing-the-youngest-museum-visitors/

we do to help enrich our children with the power of art appreciation?

McArthur Freeman, II, An Open Book, 2019, Bronze, Commissioned by Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners, Hillsborough County Public Art Collection

Join Keyshawn and his detective partner Kiki as they solve the mystery of the disappearing bikes!

Stream this podcast now on the free PBS KIDS VIDEO APP!

Back-to-school fun

with PBS KIDS!

Scan here for more resources!

Get ready for the start of school with some of our favorite back-toschool resources! This collection features activities and videos to help students get to know each other and their new school routines.

Clothes to Kids Helps SchoolAge Children Build Confidence and Gain Self-Esteem

by Brie Gorecki

How Can You Help?

“Clothes to Kids needs Y-O-U! Clothes To Kids needs your clothes, time, enthusiasm and expertise to clothe kids in our community,” Jacobs says. With the new school year approaching, the organization is looking for new and gently used clothing sizes 4-16 and S-XL for both elementary girls and boys. “Think shirts, shorts, pants, uniforms (shirts should not include school insignia) and shoes in sizes children size 9 to adult.” Underwear and sock donations are also accepted but must be new.

It all started with a purple coat.

Childhood friends Jode Frisbie Eye and Marie Bouchard McClung of Clearwater realized there was a need for children in the area who didn’t have proper clothing to wear to school.

On a rare cold morning in 2002, McClung’s sister Terry, a teacher, called her asking if she could please run to the store and grab a coat for a little girl who didn’t have one and could not join her classmates outside. McClung ran to the store and purchased a purple coat for the little girl, whose reaction made McClung realize there were probably other children in the same boat.

When McClung told her friend Eye, also a teacher, the story of the purple coat, Eye felt like McClung was telling her the story of many of her own students. They began collecting clothing for kids in lowincome families and for in-crisis

school-age children. Their idea was to provide a cheerful store environment where families and children could shop with dignity and respect and receive school clothing free of charge.

In June 2003, the first Clothes to Kids store officially opened in Dunedin. They quickly outgrew the 1,200-square-foot shopping space and moved to their current location in Clearwater in 2005. In 2009, they expanded and opened a location in St. Petersburg followed by a location in Tampa in 2018.

Since then, the store has empowered local families in need. “Shopping for the first day of school outfit or receiving the brand-new red uniform shirt they need—they chose—it matters,” says Jennifer Jacobs, Executive Director for Clothes to Kids, Inc. “Kids love to select their own clothes, try them on. Research shows children who go to school wearing clothes which make them feel like they fit in perform better academically than those who do not. We want all our kids to go to school feeling good about themselves and ready to learn!”

Since opening its doors, Clothes to Kids has provided more than 191,000 wardrobes and counting to children in the community. They served more than 15,766 wardrobes in 2022 and are on track to surpass that number this year!

Donations can be dropped off at any of their three store locations from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each weekday. For more information on how you can support or shop at Clothes to Kids, visit www.clothestokids.org.

Kids and families are always welcome to volunteer by running a clothing drive in their neighborhood, school, place of worship or other location. If you’re interested, please email MeganD@clothestokids.org.

Clothes to Kids

Locations:

CLEARWATER:

Clothes to Kids, Inc. is a 501(C)(3) Nonprofit.

ONE TEAM

Kids don’t take on day one aiming for failure. Students want success, and teachers enact their professional roles with the requisite knowledge for guiding students through individual, meaningful learning journeys. While students must put in their share of the work to achieve academic success, parents must respect the integral aspect of being a unified front with teachers. Kids, regardless of grade, are likely to sense when parents post and/or text about teachers in less than complimentary ways. I know this all too well because I hear (all too often) students’ conversations about parents’ candid opinions. When it’s clear to students that parents don’t trust the professional educator, it’s unlikely the teacher can garner students’ trust and respect. When those relational cornerstones are fractured, student success is compromised. Whether elementary or upper grades, students’

by Tara Payor, Ph.D.

sense of whom to trust is shaken. Parents and teachers must be a united front in their words and actions aimed at helping students trust in themselves. Teachers aren’t averse to parents’ questions about curriculum or concerns about grades; teachers simply expect that parents directly communicate with them rather than ranting on social or in a group text. We are humans who, like you, delight in seeing your humans succeed. We can achieve and relish in that delight as one team.

WILLINGNESS TO LEARN

Success, in the classroom and across life, is rooted in an individual’s willingness to learn. Know-it-alls miss myriad opportunities for learning and growth. Though societal trends work against this, school is not about getting straight As. School is about a willingness to grow in one’s abilities to think through things in numerous, disciplined ways. While

my eighth-grade language arts students may not write position papers when they’re 40+ and parenting middle schoolers of their own, they will benefit from knowing how to angle evidence to suit a particular purpose (like negotiating the price of their home). An education is very much about being open to and trying out different methods for thinking about and interpreting our worlds. Parents must understand that, just as approaches to healthcare change as science evolves, instructional methods also change as educational researchers and practitioners uncover more about teaching and learning. Students, teachers and parents must be willing to learn both new methods and from each other. When we model a willingness to learn for kids, we help nurture a growth mindset and students’ intrinsic motivation.

ZPD

The Zone of Proximal Development is the sacred space between what a learner can do independently and what a learner can do with guidance. In other aspects of kids’ lives, parents embrace increasing levels of tension—of challenge. The same mindset must hold in the classroom. When the “light” resistance band becomes easy at the gym, we progress to “medium” and eventually to “heavy.” The level of tension—of challenge—is dependent on the individual’s growing skills and strengths. Academic work should feel appropriately challenging for the individual student. If schoolwork is all easy, a student’s ZPD isn’t actualized and that catches up with people. If a student isn’t challenged until the middle or even high school years, how will the student even know how to navigate and persist through challenge? Rather than comparing one’s student to others and complaining about challenge, focus on the individual to maximize productivity.

United for Student Success student success

Schoolyears come and schoolyears go. Teachers’ commitment to students’ overall wellbeing and academic success remains.

Summers come and summers go, but a teacher’s excitement for welcoming students into classrooms is constant. We teachers understand (and experience) first-day jitters, but dispositions, mindsets and actions can scaffold successful learning experiences.

Home Sweet HomeSCHOOL

by Denise Mestanza-Taylor

Tampa Bay families can find abundant local resources to kick off their homeschool journey

Mention the word “homeschooling” in certain circles and you may receive eyerolls, grunts and grimaces. After what many families experienced when schools closed during the pandemic, some parents are triggered by the mere thought of it.

However, what families experienced during lockdown was not true homeschooling, but rather an attempt to replicate school at home during stressful conditions. The COVID schooling situations that many families faced lacked flexibility and support. Many parents and caregivers played the role of teacher while trying to work a full-time job.

Families who make the choice to homeschool as part of their lifestyle understand that it is far more than recreating a classroom at home. Homeschoolers can learn anywhere. Essentially, homeschooling is whatever works best for your family. Fortunately, that leaves families a lot of freedom to explore the myriad avenues and resources that Tampa Bay has to offer.

As the Back-to-School season quickly approaches, families throughout Tampa Bay are once again considering their children’s academic options—public, private or homeschooling. The reasons to homeschool vary widely amongst families, but one thing is clear: Homeschooling can offer a much more enriching and beneficial academic path than parents may realize.

How to Start Homeschooling

When you are ready to take the leap into homeschooling, start by submitting a request to your home county. Most counties offer an online form where you submit your intent.

With a click of a button, you officially withdraw your student from the county and begin your homeschool journey as a parent educator and administrator. The date of your online submission becomes your official annual evaluation date. Annual evaluations can take one of several formats, the most common of which are portfolio review or standardized testing with a certified homeschool evaluator.

Deschooling

Once you submit your intent to homeschool to your home county, take a deep breath.

Then, begin your “deschooling” journey by focusing on your child’s interests and needs to establish a love for learning. Pretend play, crafts, games and reading for enjoyment are great ways to help educate a child in engaging, authentic ways.

With older children, focus more on subjects related to their areas of interests while continuing to foster curiosity and critical thinking with project-based learning opportunities. For some high and middle schoolers, you may want to focus on academics for college readiness or trade schools while still creating a learning environment built around their interests.

Let go of the idea that learning has to happen Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and that you need to complete all school subjects every day. Your homeschool schedule should be whatever works best for your family.

Learning Opportunities Outside the Home

Homeschooling allows the flexibility for learning opportunities outside the home by incorporating field trips into your days.

Field trips provide real world lessons and experiences to foster lifelong learners. No matter the age, all homeschool students can benefit from regular visits to libraries, parks, farms, museums, aquariums, zoos and amusement parks and from volunteering in the community.

Give Homeschooling A Go

The decision to homeschool may seem scary and overwhelming, but with support and guidance, it can be a rewarding and enriching experience for your family.

Here’s some advice a friend and experienced homeschool mom once said to me many years ago: “Try homeschooling. Give yourself a semester. You can always re-enroll your child in public school if homeschooling doesn’t work out. At least you tried.” Homeschooling may not be the right choice for your family. But it just might be a joyful, wonder-filled experience in ways you may never have imagined.

Left to Right: Allan Taylor, Emmalynn Taylor (18), Liam Taylor (13), Al Taylor (21) and Denise Mestanza-Taylor

BACK SCHOOL

How to Pick and Wear a Backpack

Backpacks are a back-to-school staple and necessity, but they tend to get heavier each year as students get older, which can be concerning for parents. Ryan Fitzgerald, M.D., a fellowship-trained pediatric orthopaedic surgeon with Children's Orthopaedic and Scoliosis Surgery Associates (COSSA) who treats patients at Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, shares backpack safety tips to help parents guide their children on picking out and wearing a backpack to prevent injury.

PICKING A BACKPACK

1

Choose a backpack with wide shoulder straps and a padded pack. Narrow straps can dig into shoulders, causing pain and restricting circulation. They are also less sturdy and more likely to rip after just a few weeks or months of use. Wider straps that that clip across the chest help spread the force/weight of the backpack across your child’s shoulders. The part of the pack that rests on your child’s back should be well padded, which provides comfort and protection from any sharp edges or objects inside the pack.

2

Select a backpack that is lightweight, but sturdy.

Look for strong zippers and tough nylon fabrics that will resist rips and tears without adding extra weight. Reflective fabric is a good idea, especially if your child will be walking, riding his or her bike or going to and from the bus stop.

3

Consider wheels. This can be a good option if a child is comfortable with a backpack on wheels, but make sure your child will use the wheels, otherwise they will add more weight to the backpack. Also, double check that the school allows this type of backpack.

HOW TO PROPERLY WEAR BACKPACKS

1. Location of the backpack.

The form of wearing a backpack is critical. The heavier the backpack, the more stress it puts on your body. Carrying the backpack too low puts more stress on the body by pulling the force further away and tiring other parts of the body. Adjust the shoulder straps so that the backpack is 2 inches above the buttocks, which helps to evenly distribute its force through the shoulders.

2. Make sure your child uses both shoulder straps.

Wearing a backpack on one shoulder may strain muscles. If a child prefers a messengerstyle bag, make sure they wear it across the body instead of on one shoulder.

3. Empty the backpack frequently.

A filled backpack shouldn’t weigh more than 10 pounds. Parents of younger students should clean out the backpack on a regular basis to see if there are unnecessary items adding to the backpack’s weight. Encourage teens to do the same. Only carry items that are required for the day, and pack heavier items at the top and toward the front.

Lastly, do not ignore any back pain in children or teens and encourage your student to tell you about any numbness, tingling, or discomfort in the arms or legs. This may indicate a backpack that is too heavy or does not fit well.

For more tips on heading back to school, visit HopkinsAllChildrens.org/Stories.

Ryan Fitzpatrick, M.D. is on the medical staff of Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, Inc. (“JHACH”), but is an independent practitioner who is not an employee or agent of JHACH.

Back to school Lunchboxmafia with

by Jenny P., @lunchboxmafia

EASY GO-TO LUNCHES

Check out these family favorites:

• Protein roll-ups are always a big hit. Roll up sliced turkey and Colby jack cheese or sliced salami with mozzarella string cheese.

• Lunchables are always on high rotation over here. They're easy to eat and fun to pack. Use pretzel crisps, naan or pita chips if they get bored of crackers.

• Pasta never disappoints. Whether it's mac and cheese or penne pasta with Alfredo sauce, I send it at least once per week.

TIPS FOR HOT LUNCHES

I’m sharing these suggestions that can help keep that yummy food warm:

Always preheat your thermos with boiling hot water. Put the lid on and set it aside while you prepare or reheat the food.

EASY FOOD PREP TIPS

These are some kitchen shortcuts that work for us so that we don't have to carve out time later for food and meal prep:

• When you're cutting up veggies for dinner, prep extra and store for lunches.

• Portion out leftover proteins and sides as you clean up from dinner to give you a head start on lunches for the next day.

• Boil eggs (nine minutes is perfect) and store them in the fridge for up to seven days. Use them in salad, sandwiches or just add them to your lunchbox with a dash of everything bagel seasoning.

• When you grill chicken, grill extra and use it in pasta, salads and sandwiches during the week.

When you're reheating rice or pasta, add a few teaspoons of broth or water to the rice and pasta sauce to the pasta so that it warms through evenly.

Reheat sliced pizza on the stove! Add your pizza to a pan on medium heat for 2 minutes. Sprinkle a couple drops of water and cover with the lid. Heat for another 2 minutes. To pack, let it come to room temperature and pack it with a napkin underneath to absorb any moisture and keep the crust crisp!

Check out the school menu and recreate something that your kiddo’s friends usually enjoy.

It's the most wonderful time of the year! (Well, the second most wonderful.) I'm here to make back to school lunch packing easy and stress free for you.

TIPS FOR LEFTOVERS

I love cooking and my kid loves home cooked meals. Here are some ways to re-purpose leftovers for lunches.

• Make a quick fried rice with any extra white or brown rice.

• Add leftover chicken to wraps and salads.

• Mix veggies into pasta, soup or rice.

• Convert garlic toast into a delicious personal pizza.

• To leftover pasta, add Italian dressing with a handful of veggies for an easy kid-friendly pasta salad.

UPGRADE PANTRY STAPLES

Add these pantry items to stretch hot lunches:

LUNCHBOXES AND GEAR

What you put your lunch in can be as important as what they eat! Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping for lunch gear:

• Younger kids (Pre-K and elementary) need an easy-toopen container. Bigger latches and handles are great for little hands. Check out Easylunchboxes, Bentgo and Yumbox for bentos.

• Older kids (middle school and beyond) would enjoy the sleek and low profile Lunchbots and Easylunchboxes. The Bentgo stackable bento and salad bowl is available at Target. The bowl is great for packing salads with toppings.

• Kids usually can't reheat their food at school. If you want to send hot lunches, get a thermos. Check out Thermos Brand and Yumbox for thermos options. My go-to lunchbox for hot lunches is OmieLife bento with built-in thermos.

• EasyLunchboxes (four-compartment snack box) is great for snack style lunches and protein boxes. It's simple and straight forward.

• Target has great lunch bags, water bottles and accessories.

• Cookie cutters are great for making sandwiches fun!

Shredded carrot to boxed mac and cheese.

2 tablespoons of frozen peas to 1 cup of pasta.

A handful of frozen corn to leftover fried rice.

MAKE A SPLASH THIS SUMMER

Escape to Adventure Island®, Tampa Bay’s premier water park with 30 acres of tropical attractions:

• Tons of exhilarating water slides

• Shaka-Laka Shores, the ALL-NEW kids’ splash and play zone

• 17,000-square-foot wave pool and much more Discover it all in this island paradise for the whole family!

For best deals and offers, visit AdventureIsland.com

Island Adventures in The City

by Anu Varma Panchal

Spending a whole day at the park can be fun, but also overwhelming if you’re toting around little ones. Adventure Island offers several ways to streamline your day:

Tampa’s own Adventure Island Water Park may be your best bet for summer fun!

When you want to frolic in water but don’t want to drive to the beach…

When you want the thrill of a ride but don’t feel like traveling far…

When you want to entertain a whole family without breaking the bank… where do you go?

If you live in Tampa Bay, lucky you: The answer is on our doorstep.

Adventure Island Water Park has remained a perennial summer favorite since its opening 42 years ago. With rides for every age group and adrenaline-junkie levels, exciting food options, a beautiful tropical garden landscape and multiple ways to upgrade and customize your day, Adventure Island is a perfect way to while away a hot day in August.

Even if this is a place that has featured in your childhood memories, there’s plenty that’s new and revamped. Especially exciting this year is the brand-new ShakaLaka Shores. This interactive splash and play zone is the perfect place to bring your youngest adventurers. Bright and colorful, the area features 25 play elements, many of which have interactive aquatic components, to keep even the most active and curious littles splashing in joy. The best part is that this in all

within a zero-depth area, ideal for the tiniest park visitors to have a safe day of fun.

As for rides, the park offers 11 of them, with the newest ones, Wahoo! Remix and Rapids Racer, having debuted last spring. Wahoo! Remix isn’t just a ride; it’s a full-fledged family party with music and glowing tunnels. At Rapids Racer, grab a few friends and a 2-person saucer and race down a 600-foot slide to see who wins bragging rights.

When you take a spin on Solar Vortex, you’re aboard America’s first dual tailspin water slide, which includes rotations and rapid descents as well as AquaLucent light elements. And if none of the above is thrilling enough for you, head over to Vanish Point, which will plunge you down 70 feet through 425 feet of spiraling tubes.

If relaxation was the main aim of your day, there’s plenty here for you as well. Float on a tube at the Rambling Bayou or watch your daredevil teens leap into the Paradise Lagoon while you relax at the “shore.” Or simply settle into the shallowest part of Endless Surf, the park’s 17,000-square-foot wave pool, and wait for surf to roll in. At Splash Attack, the whole family can join in the fun of seeing who gets soaked under the 1,000-gallon wooden bucket that empties every seven minutes.

All that water play can whip up an appetite. There are plenty of food and beverage options, from quick bites and snacks to full-service sit down eateries including Surfside Café, Mango Joe’s and the newly renovated Captain Pete’s. Adults can enjoy their favorite frozen beverages like the classic daiquiri or Island Lava Flow from the park’s first fullservice bar, the Hang Ten Tiki Bar

To make your dining portion at Adventure Island even easier to manage, ask about the All-Day Dining Deal. With this option, you can enjoy an entrée, side or dessert and soft drink or bottled water once every 90 minutes at Mango Joe’s Café, Surfside Café, and Colossal Snacks.

Skip lines with Quick Queue, which allows guests to go straight to the front of the line. This starts at $9.99 per person with an Unlimited option starting at $19.99. All-season Quick Queue passes to select attractions start at $199 per person.

Rent a spot to serve as your family’s home base for the day. Cabana rentals start at $69.99; Chickee Hut rentals start at $19.99; and lounger rentals start at $19.99. These rates may vary by season.

IF YOU GO:

for hours, as

vary.

Adventure Island is located across the street from Busch Gardens Tampa Bay at 10001 McKinley Drive, Tampa. Check adventureisland.com

they

Shaka-Laka Shores

Solar Vortex

Save the Date for the Best Fall Events for Families

It’s almost fall y’all! We may still be sweltering in Florida heat, but there are some cool Halloween events heading your way as soon as this month! Call us crazy, but we actually love that many of these events kick off early because it is much more schedule friendly. There’s less pressure to squeeze everything in, and we don’t mind getting into the spooktacular spirit a bit early.

START THE PARTY EARLY THIS MONTH

MICKEY’S NOT-SO SCARY HALLOWEEN PARTY AT MAGIC KINGDOM

Select nights Aug. 11-Nov. 1

This is our favorite Orlando area Halloween event. While the party is after hours, officially kicking off at 7 p.m., you can arrive as early as 4 p.m. with your event ticket to get the most out of your evening. You and the kids can experience Magic Kingdom with a Halloween twist, go trick-or-treating throughout the park, snap photos with eventexclusive characters and so much more. The best part—it’s a lot less crowded than a normal day, and it’s not as hot once the sun goes down.

Scan

SPOOKTACULAR AT BUSCH GARDENS TAMPA BAY

Saturdays and Sundays, Sept. 8-Oct. 29 and Monday, Oct. 30 and Tuesday, Oct. 31

This adorable Halloween celebration in the Festival Walkway area returns this year with trick-or-treating, costume parade, story time and more. We loved getting to know Kandy, the witch-in-training, and can’t wait to see her again this year. The event runs from noon to 4 p.m. and only takes a little bit of time to get through, saving plenty of time to explore the rest of the park. Spooktacular is included with park admission.

HOWL-O-SCREAM AT BUSCH GARDENS TAMPA BAY

Select nights Sept. 8-Oct. 31, 7 p.m. until park closing

For teens and date night, Howl-O-Scream is a must-have experience. There’s a new haunted house, D. H. Baggum’s Circus of Fear, and two new scare zones. It’s also pretty cool to ride the rides at night when they are lit up for the occasion.

BRICK-OR-TREAT MONSTER PARTY AT LEGOLAND FLORIDA

Select Saturdays and Sundays, Sept. 16-Oct. 29

This year will feature an all-new fireworks show, new experiences, dance parties, never-before-seen event-exclusive characters and more! Brick-or-Treat is included with admission, and if you really want to celebrate the season Florida-style, make sure to buy the ticket or annual pass that includes water park admission to cool off if it gets too hot the day you go.

CREATURES OF THE NIGHT AT ZOOTAMPA Select nights in October

We love Creatures of the Night because it truly offers something for every age range. There are signs that rate the level of spookiness of each activity, so the kids can decide if they’re ready or not. There are so many fun themed activities on schedule throughout the event along with animal meet-and-greets and of course, plenty of mischievous characters to keep you on your toes (and snap some cute pictures too!). This is a separately ticketed event that often sells out, so make sure to secure your tickets early. ZooTampa members and Pay for a Day ticket holders can attend for free.

PUMPKIN PATCH AND CORN MAZE FUN!

There are so many awesome pumpkin patches throughout the Tampa Bay Area to pick out your perfect pumpkin and snap the most adorable photos. In fact, you can make a day out of it by visiting a local farm that not only offers a pumpkin patch, but farm activities, a corn maze and of course…pumpkins!

As we await 2023 schedules, we know of at least one local farm opening its doors early. Harvest Holler Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch in Polk City will welcome you beginning Sept. 15 through Nov. 12 on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

In addition to the corn maze, they offer hayrides, country sips and eats, a chance to meet farm animals on this working farm, a cow train, and more!

Moms to Know

Eileen Esposito

The Sunflower Patch

by Julie Tingley, founder of @weemacree

At the Sunflower Patch, Eileen Esposito combines her talents as a music therapist, recording artist and songwriter to create enchanting experiences for children. With a deep-rooted passion for music ingrained in her DNA (her great-great-uncle composed "Silent Night"), Esposito’s own musical journey began at a young age. Today, with a bachelor’s degree in music therapy from Berklee College of Music and extensive clinical credentials, Esposito’s mission is to share her expertise and fill a need for early learning programs that incorporate the magic of music.

TBPM: Please describe your journey into music therapy and what inspired you to pursue this career path?

EE: Growing up, I sang, danced, wrote songs and played piano from the age of 3. I always loved how music—creating it, watching it, listening to it, sharing it with others—made me feel and the effect it had on others. As a young adult, I worked as a recording artist in professional pop groups, and one of the groups was given the opportunity to perform an Armed Forces Entertainment tour for military bases throughout the Middle East in the early 2000s. During this tour, I discovered the true power of music to raise morale for overseas soldiers and help them process or distract them from overarching discomforts or pain of being away from their families for months or more at a time in an unfamiliar and uncomfortable place. I decided then that I wanted to pursue a career path that would combine music and compassion for others.

I completed my educational training at Berklee College of Music in Boston and my clinical training through the Louis Armstrong Center for Music and Medicine in New York. For my internship, I was placed in maternity, NICU and pediatric inpatient units and have never looked back. I acquired additional training to earn dual credentials as a boardcertified music therapist and a certified child life specialist and have worked with babies and mommies for almost ten years now!

Back [in] my hometown of Tampa, Florida, I started working full-time at St. Joe's Children's Hospital and seeing private clients in the community on the side. During COVID-19, I provided private, in-home music groups to babies and mommies. In the beginning of 2022 when my daughter was a few months old, I partnered with Taiylor, a friend from high school, also a first-time mom and a creative genius. She wanted to develop the business into something more official with me, and we shared a vision. Being new moms and coming out of socially distanced COVID-19, we really wanted a place where we could build community, bring our little ones to foster social relationships, sensory play, music, art classes and more. A third partner, Jen, also a new mom, joined us and the three of us got to work building curricula, learning how to start a business and growing The Sunflower Patch together.

TBPM: How has your background in music and songwriting influenced your approach to music therapy and working with children?

EE: Before words, we have sounds and gestures. Before thoughts, we have melodies and rhythms. It starts with the heartbeat. While still in utero, we learn and grow with music. To me, there is no separation—

music and children go together like the sun and the earth. Scientific research supports that music lights up all areas of the brain, so the parts responsible for language, memory, behavior, sensory perception, motor skills– everything– can be activated, stimulated, developed and impacted by music in some way. For children, particularly between the ages of 0-4 years old when the brain is growing most rapidly, music becomes one of the most powerful teaching tools. Evidence is now showing that confidence in social interactions and positive healthy relationships are more important for early childhood success than knowing your ABCs or counting.

TBPM: Tell us about the Sunflower Patch, your vision, your partners and all that it has become.

EE: The Sunflower Patch is a 4,200-square-foot beautiful restored historic home in Hyde Park, with every room meticulously kept and highly curated. We have imaginative and dramatic playrooms, music rooms, art and sensory rooms, a light play room, soft play, climbing, tunnels, a ball pit, books, bubbles and more. During the week we run a dozen or so different styles of classes with half a dozen teachers, as well as host open play, private play dates and age-specific social mixers (playdates). We are child led and play based, meaning we believe the research that supports that children learn best through play and by investigating what they are most naturally interested in. We follow evidence-based techniques published in American Academy of Pediatrics and Harvard University’s Center for the Developing Child and are in the process of publishing our very own method integrating this research and our combined decades of experience, called The Ellis Method. We keep our class sizes small (six to 10) to maximize the opportunities for meaningful learning and conversation. Additionally, we have monthly themed parties with professional photography for families.

TBPM: Could you share any upcoming projects or collaborations that we can expect to see?

EE: We just added a monthly membership and a sibling add-on option. Also, each month we are adding new classes and class times. Our goal is to not only keep growing our amazing village here, but also to create opportunities for other working moms. Our vendors, in-house contractors, everyone—we go to moms first to get the job done.

TBPM: What do you love to do most with your 2-year-old daughter in Tampa Bay?

EE: Come to The Sunflower Patch! It is a beautiful and fun space in a beautiful and fun part of the city, with endless, diverse play offerings.

Pictured left to right: Jen Martin, Eileen Esposito, Taiylor Wennik photo by Artistry By Arielle

Mason Hawk Kids to Know:

by Julie Tingley, founder of @weemacree

Mason Hawk may be a great student, a strong athlete and a gifted pianist, but his passion and advocacy for children battling life-threatening illnesses is what truly makes him stand out. Inspired by his brother's liver transplant journey, Mason found purpose through volunteering with Children's Dream Fund at the age of 13. This past spring, as a member of the Tampa Prep baseball team, he spearheaded a remarkable fundraising initiative—a JV and Varsity Hit-A-Thon—to raise money to fulfill the dreams of two local children. Mason is on a mission to do more to bring joy and impact change among the most courageous kids.

TBPM: How has your personal experience with your brother's liver transplant journey influenced your dedication to helping children in need?

MH: Earlier in my childhood, my brother was often admitted into the hospital for multiple nights in a row. I witnessed how hard it can be to battle a life-threatening illness on the patient as well as the family. I was also able to see how impactful nonprofits like the Children’s Dream Fund can be in a sick child’s life. I feel that these experiences make me able to relate more with helping children and make me more passionate about the issue.

TBPM: What motivated you to initiate the JV and Varsity Hit-A-Thon at Tampa Prep to raise funds for Colton's wish? How did you come up with this idea?

MH: When I transferred to Tampa Prep, I knew I wanted to create a fundraiser supporting the Children’s Dream Fund, but I wasn’t sure how. However, once I heard about a young baseball player named Colton King who is battling leukemia, I thought it would be a great idea to involve my team to support and sponsor his dream. When I met with my head coach, A.J. Hendrix, about it, he was very supportive and helped me plan the event.

TBPM: What was the outcome from the Hit-A-Thon?

MH: At the end of the Hit-A-Thon, the baseball team and I reached our goal of $5,000 and then exceeded it by over $3,000. With these extra donations, we were not only able to sponsor Colton’s Dream, but also a young girl named Gabria’s Dream as well.

TBPM: It takes a lot of grit, vision and fearlessness to pursue the ideas you have to make a difference. What approaches do you take or strategies

do you employ to make things come together for the goals you have?

MH: When it comes to reaching the goals I have, I try to aim as high as possible, and not put a limit on what can be done. In the case of the Hit-A-Thon, I originally thought of $5,000 as lofty. However, the team really came together and worked hard to get as many donations as possible, and we were able to crush our original goal.

TBPM: How do you plan to keep helping children in need after high school? Do you have any specific aspirations in this regard?

MH: For my senior year, my goal is to create a club that will support the Children’s Dream Fund at Tampa Prep. Through this club, I hope to be able to fully sponsor three dreams for children in need. I also hope that this club spreads awareness to the other students at my school and encourages others to become more passionate about helping children battling illness.

TBPM: Based on your support and involvement with the organization, we learned that you will be nominated for the Lightning Community Hero Award by Children’s Dream Fund. What would it mean to you to win this award, and how does this type of recognition make you feel?

MH: Winning the Lightning Community Hero Award would mean a lot to me. Being able to give back to Children’s Dream Fund — especially for their new program: Super Siblings — would be a huge honor. However, I know I want to continue what I am doing whether I am ever recognized or not, because being able to see the positive impact my

volunteering and fundraising has on the children already means enough to me.

TBPM: Let’s talk about baseball. It has connected you with players on so many levels beyond the game itself. Do you see yourself playing next year, and where would that be?

MH: My goal beyond high school would be to continue playing baseball at a high academic liberal arts college. Not only do I love competing on the field, but I have also met some of my closest friends through baseball. I love being part of a team and forming close relationships with my teammates.

TBPM: While you have demonstrated a steadfast commitment to social impact and being a Varsity athlete, you also have a special musical gift. Tell us about your instrument of choice and how you became so proficient.

MH: I have been playing piano for about 13 years now. When I was young, my piano teacher gave me a classical base. I became more interested in jazz and blues, however. I learned how to improvise and play jazz mostly on YouTube, as well as from my school band teacher. Now, I enjoy playing by ear and improvising. I hope to keep learning about music and pursue it as a minor in college.

TBPM: What is your favorite thing to do with your family in Tampa Bay?

MH: My favorite thing to do with my family in Tampa Bay is going to local sporting events in the area, mainly to see the Rays and the Lightning. I also enjoy the music scene, whether that’s local musicians, festivals or large concerts.

Sulphur Springs Garden Club Helps the Community Bloom

by Kiran Malik-Khan, senior communications director, Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA

Start counting: There’s collard greens, squash, kale, Jamaican callaloo, sugar cane, onions, tomatoes, bananas, edible marigolds (yes, really!), blueberries, peanuts, lettuce, oregano, mint, sage and so much more. This is the beautiful Garden Club at the Sulphur Springs PK-8 Community Partnership School, an estimated 800 square feet of space in Sulphur Springs, where students learn about growing plants and vegetables and then grow their own garden on campus. Many even go on to plant at home. This has translated into a community workshop attended by many local parents and residents, who not only learn to grow and take care of the plants and vegetables, but also generate extra income by selling them.

The Garden Club is supported by the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA and the Sulphur Springs YMCA Community Learning Center, which is located on the school grounds in addition to The Department of Agriculture and Sulphur Springs Neighborhood of Promise.

This year, about 28 third-grade students participated in the club and got to take 15 gallons of needed food home just before spring break.

“We incorporate math into the planting as we measure, count, and sort,” says Diana Kyle, master gardener, who oversees the Garden Club. “We grow and then cook healthy things. Pizza is their favorite though. They tell me it’s the best pizza they’ve ever had, and I tell them it’s because they grew the ingredients like tomatoes and basil. We cook easy things so the children are successful.”

In fact, Kyle helped create the “Garden Club’s Recipe Book” featuring these easy recipes.

“Food is expensive nowadays,” Kyle says. “We’re giving our community free plants and vegetables, and find them space at the Ybor City farmer’s market to sell. The YMCA is creating a ripple effect, and positive change. The kids are teaching their parents to plant and grow, and that is pretty powerful.”

Anica Upson agrees. She is a first-grade teacher at the school, and despite it being summer break, made the 45-minute drive from Gibsonton to attend the community workshop.

“This is so vital to the community thanks to the YMCA,” Upson says. “The Garden Club is amazing (for) sharing the knowledge and tools for success. I have grown okra, collard greens and tomatoes. It’s free, and we are learning just like the students. It is great to see families benefit with their kids.”

Nicole Kettermann, Tampa Y’s Director of Youth Health and Wellness, agrees. She oversees the Garden Club and continuously champions it.

“From farm to table, the Garden Club is helping the neighborhood,” says Ketterman. “Sulphur Springs is now a model community for other regions. We are being contacted to share our processes and are glad to help. This is an important initiative.”

We agree. Thank you to everyone involved in making this a blossoming initiative.

For more information about the Tampa YMCA, visit: tampaymca.org.

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The nightmare began with a simple shopping-mall pretzel. But thankfully for a Tampa Bay middle-schooler named Isabella, a scary and painful ordeal ended with the help of the Tampa General Hospital (TGH) Children’s Hospital’s acclaimed pediatric gastrointestinal (GI) program in collaboration with the sole academic GI program in Tampa Bay, USF Health Pediatric Gastroenterology.

It all started just after last Thanksgiving, when the family strolled past retail shops and eateries decked out brightly for another holiday season. Isabella’s mom, Evelyn, thought nothing of getting her then-12-year-old daughter a kiosk snack.

Isabella had been experiencing mild stomach issues for several months — something her parents attributed to a possible gluten or lactose intolerance — and they were in the process of finding a pediatric GI doctor. The search was delayed since the family had recently relocated from New York City to Pasco County, where Isabella’s dad, Jamie, had begun a new plant manager job with the school system, and his familyplan insurance hadn’t yet kicked in.

They never dreamed of what would happen next.

“Everything just exploded like a volcano,” Evelyn recalls. “Isabella was soon in enormous pain. When we got home, she was doubled over and shaking on the couch. We had no idea what was going on and it was terrifying.”

They rushed her to the emergency department of another area hospital but weren’t satisfied with the answer from the doctor: They should take Isabella home, give her Advil and then take her to see a GI doctor in the morning — a challenge when they were without insurance. The next day, they found a concerned pediatrician who told them of her suspicions:

Isabella’s Tale: How TGH’s Pediatric GI Program Came to the Rescue

Crohn’s disease — a lifelong disease characterized by inflammation in the digestive tract that can cause severe, even fatal, complications if untreated.

The news shook Evelyn and Jamie, who had heard of the disease but knew very little about it. A friend of Evelyn’s had told her about TGH’s reputation for excellence, so off they went — and the result was life changing.

“From the moment we walked in, it was a completely different experience,” Evelyn says. “We were greeted and brought back to be seen immediately. Everyone was so kind and caring. And the level of service we received … it makes me emotional simply talking about it.”

“I could not have asked for a better set of doctors,” she adds. “They reran her blood work and her inflammation markers were through the roof.”

Isabella underwent an endoscopy and colonoscopy expeditiously by expert pediatric gastroenterologist Dr. Jenelle Fernandez to confirm the Crohn’s diagnosis. She was admitted to the TGH Children’s Hospital, staying for 10 days and receiving personalized care. In addition, she was assigned a GI navigator, Julia Dam, who coordinated her care each step of the way even beyond her admission — a role that differentiates the TGH Children’s Hospital from other local hospitals.

“I loved all the doctors and nurses,” Isabella says. “And the care team took me on walks and made slime and crafts with me. Everyone was so nice.”

Her doctors helped her turn the corner with a combination of dietary changes, state-of-the-art biologics and supplements, sparing her from invasive treatments. Some eight months later, Isabella, a straight-A student ready for high school at 13, is symptom-free. With the guidance of Dr. Fernandez, her GI dietitian and gastroenterologist, Evelyn has maintained a complementary approach, including nutritional changes and prescription medicine to heal her daughter’s gut.

“Treatment of Crohn’s requires a multidisciplinary approach,” says pediatric gastroenterologist and medical director of Pediatric Gastroenterology at TGH, Dr. Racha Khalaf. “Not only do you need to partner with a gastroenterologist, but with a dietitian, a psychologist and other members of the care group to provide our young patients with the best care.”

For Isabella and her parents, the care was that and more. Evelyn says, “I want people to know there’s hope and the TGH Children’s Hospital helped give that to Isabella and all of us.”

From left to right: Isabella, Dad Jamie, Sister Sofia and Mom Evelyn

Who We Are

Pediatric Cardiology Associates opened it’s doors in 1977 as the first pediatric cardiology program on the west coast of Florida. Since then, we have recruited nationally and internationally respected specialists in all areas of pediatric cardiology, including fetal arrhythmia, catheterization, cardiomyopathy, transplant, pulmonary hypertension, cardiac imaging, preventive and weight management cardiology and adult congenital cardiology. We also established the Tampa Bay Adult Congenital Heart Center to treat the growing population of adults with congenital heart disease.

Our goal is to provide quality, comprehensive care from conception throughout adulthood. With over 170 years of combined experience we are the largest comprehensive program in the State of Florida.

Doctor's Orders: Preparing Your Child for a Healthy School Year

by Lou Romig MD, FAAP, FACEP, Medical Director, After Hours Pediatrics Urgent Care

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Summer’s come to an end and it’s time to send our kids back to school. As you get supplies and new school clothes, it’s also important to prepare your child to go back to school healthy and to stay healthy.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, children get eight to 12 colds or other viral illnesses each school year. To help keep your child(ren) healthy and avoid disruption in your routines, here are four easy tips for a healthy start to the school year:

HAND WASHING

To protect children from getting sick and subsequently bringing germs home, encourage your children to wash their hands frequently and give older children small bottles of hand sanitizer to use at school.

If your child becomes ill, talk to your doctor about when it’s safe to keep your child home and observe them and when it’s wise to have your child evaluated urgently.

ADEQUATE SLEEP

Children need sleep to prepare their bodies to expend the energy they need for their activities in and out of school. Children who are sleep deprived may fall asleep in class, have trouble paying attention, make poor decisions about risky behaviors and be very moody.

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Toddlers and preschoolers need 10-12 hours of sleep every day, while school-aged kids need 10-11 hours and teens need 8-9 hours. Studies show that many children don’t get adequate sleep, especially during the school year. This issue has played a role in some school systems’ decisions to move school start times to later in the morning to allow kids to be better rested.

Keeping late hours until the night before school starts will make it much harder for your child to adjust to the new schedule, so it’s a good idea to gradually move children’s bed and wake-up times to match their school hours during the weeks before school starts after a break.

Restrict your child from TV, computer and phone use for at least an hour, preferably two, before bedtime, as the light spectrum projected by these screens can make the brain more active and interfere with falling asleep. Try to reinforce to children that all cell phone use must stop during rest hours.

NUTRITION & HYDRATION

Children need adequate nutrition and hydration to power their bodies and brains. Whether it’s a sit-down meal or on-the-go, try to make sure your children have a nutritious breakfast that includes protein for extra energy that will keep them going until lunch.

Teach children about the building blocks of a nutritious diet and give them guidance about choosing the proper foods for lunch at school if they don’t take a healthy lunch with them. Encourage your children to drink as much water as they can at school.

4

SPORTS SAFETY

If sports are on your child’s school agenda, talk to coaches about what precautions they take against the late summer and early fall Florida heat and assure that children will have free access to water and/or electrolyte solutions to drink during practice and games.

Let your child know that if they get dizzy, have a headache, get very thirsty, are nauseated or have muscle cramps while exercising (in sports or PE), they should stop, tell the teacher or coach they’re not feeling well, get to a shaded area or into air conditioning, and drink fluids.

If your child will be engaging in contact sports, assure that coaches and athletic trainers are educated about traumatic brain injury and concussions and that the team has a protocol for dealing with athletes with possible head injuries.

Here’s wishing you and your family a healthy and happy school year!

we get better at protecting our environment.

Reclamation ecologists like Ashlee work to return mined lands to productive use as wildlife habitats, public parks and more—so future generations can enjoy these lands for years to come.

With every generation,

A slice of Bavaria returns to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay as the park celebrates the return of Bier Fest every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from July 21 through Sept. 4!

2023 Back-to-School

Guide:

We’re sharing top tips to help your kids embark on the best school year ever!

25+ Indoor Places to Play:

Our team is dishing on our favorite spots to play inside in the Tampa Bay area when it’s too hot or raining outside!

Things to Do This Weekend in Tampa Bay:

Check out our top picks of special events and activities! We curate a new list for you each week.

Awesome Water Parks You MUST Explore:

There are so many unique water parks within a short drive whether you are looking for thrilling water slides, a natural water park, or even gigantic man-made lagoons!

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Mahi dreams

of being a doctor. Our dream is to make it possible.

To us, a child’s dream is as precious as their health, and at the core of all we do. Exploring every medical possibility. Imagining. Teaching. And always moving forward. For Mahi. For all children.

Forward. For all children. HopkinsAllChildrens.org/Forward