July 2019

tampabayparenting.com

JULY 2019

GALLONS OF FUN!

SO MANY REASONS TO VISIT

THE FLORIDA AQUARIUM page 18

Sue Bliss, the Aquarium's special events manager, and her daughters experience the new Moon Bay jellies touch tank in the lobby.

PLAN AHEAD BACK-TO-SCHOOL SEASON IS COMING. WE'RE SHARING WAYS TO GET READY FOR THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR

WAYS TO

WOW KIDS WITH

SPACE

FUN ON THE

RIVERWALK SEVEN WAYS TO ENJOY

JULY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

YOUR GUIDE TO SUMMER FUN

1

Pediatric Dentistry

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2019

Clearwater Seminole

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CAN A CHILD UNDERSTAND COMPLEX BRAIN SURGERY? THEY CAN NOW. Introducing virtual reality medical technology.

Being a kid can be hard. Imagine being a kid who needs brain surgery. Well, the doctors at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital can now use a virtual reconstruction of the child’s anatomy to look at the brain from every angle. And not only can this 360-degree cutting-edge imaging technology let doctors plan and walk through a surgery before the actual surgery, it lets patients and their families see what the doctors see. So now, doctors can give them an understanding of what’s going on with their diagnosis and treatment, and answer all their questions. And the most important feature of this new technology? A child and their family get some peace of mind. And that’s not too complex for anyone to understand. Learn more about our virtual reality tool: StJoesKidsVR.org.

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CONTENTS 12 // From Page to Stage "The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical" comes to life on stage at the Straz Center this month.

14 // Fun on the Riverwalk Seven days, seven ways to enjoy Tampa’s Riverwalk.

16 // Moms to KNOW The KNOW Tampa is a book of 100 women who are shattering glass ceilings. Founder Julie Tingley shares stories of KNOW Tribe women.

22 // Wow them with Space Connect your kids with the wonders of space as we prepare to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Apollo moon landing.

24 // Glazer Embraces Maker Culture Sarah Cole, the new President and CEO of Glazer Children’s Museum, shares ways you can share in the culture of making things from arts, crafts and technology with your kids.

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26 // Calm the Chaos How to ease transitions during back-to-school and beyond.

cover story

GALLONS OF FUN There are so many reasons to visit the Florida Aquarium! Cover mom Sue Bliss shares some of her favorite things to do.

30 // Keeping School Cool How the half-penny sales tax referendum is already helping local schools stay cool with new air-conditioning systems.

feature

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36 // ZooTampa Top 5 Summer Bucket List Find out 5 ways to really get the most out of your summer visit!

ready, set, plan your best season ever!

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14 4

28 // Habits of Successful Students Local teachers and moms share their words of wisdom about implementing good habits before back-to-school for a successful year.

TampaBayParenting.com JULY 2019

36 49

49 // Global Studies The Schomp family of social media’s Retired Toddlers share their experience of attending preschool in Mexico during their travels.

every issue 10 // THE JULY INSIDE SCOOP WHAT'S NEW, WHAT WE LOVE AND MORE 59 // GET OUT AND ENJOY JULY OUR FAVORITE FAMILY-FRIENDLY EVENTS 62 // THIS MONTH ONLINE TAMPABAYPARENTING.COM

Insist On The Right Size Care.

Pediatric Fellowship trained, each of our physicians understands the unique needs and challenges of kids. We specialize in care for

Thomas M. Andrews, MD

children with conditions affecting the ears, nose & throat, as well as

Wade R. Cressman, MD

disorders involving airway, head & neck. When your child requires

Rose S. Trowbridge, MD

expert ENT care, call Pediatric Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists.

Insist on the right size care.

Kathleen M. Wasylik, MD

727-329-5400 ■ www.pediatric-ent.com JULY TampaBayParenting.com 5 Brandon ■ Clearwater ■ Odessa ■ Sarasota ■ St. Petersburg ■ 2019 Tampa

WE'VE ALWAYS

GUEST EDITOR Sue Bliss CREATIVE DIRECTOR AND EDITORIAL MANAGER Laura Byrne ASSOCIATE EDITOR Anu Varma Panchal EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Sarah Stoulil CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sue Bliss Anu Varma Panchal Maggie Rodriguez Julie Tingley Grayson Kamm Sarah Cole Marni Fuente Tara Payor, Ph.D. Laura Cross Michelle Schomp Alison Kampmann Laura Byrne CALENDAR Cassidy Gaudes INTERN Cassidy Gaudes Jessica Blake ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Ralf Gonzalez Craig Collins LAYOUT & DESIGN Nicole Barolo of Page Four Creative CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Darlene Barlows Photography Diana Blinkhorn BOOKKEEPING Employee of the Month, LLC TAMPA BAY PARENTING MAGAZINE 320 W. Kennedy Blvd. Ste. 220 Tampa, Florida 33606 Phone 813-949-4400 Fax 813-315-6688 info@tbparenting.com editor@tbparenting.com BECOME A FAN tampabayparentingmagazine @tampabayparenting @TBParenting

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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.

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SUE BLISS

THE FLORIDA AQUARIUM

loved how kid-friendly the Aquarium is. 'm a mom of two daughters with a husband and a full-time job, and sometimes, I find it difficult to find a place to spend family time that pleases everyone and provides a full day of fun right here at home in Tampa Bay. The Florida Aquarium provides all that and more for my family.

Summer is our favorite time to visit the Aquarium as our girls really love The Splash Pad that’s included with our Aquarium membership (also included with a general admission ticket). It’s one of our favorite water parks in the area, and our daughters have a blast every time we visit. It’s convenient because they can do their thing in the play zone while my husband and I relax at the outdoor bar with a drink—and the girls are always in full view. Sometimes we just visit for The Splash Pad; other times we enjoy an entire Aquarium experience with all the exhibits and other amenities.

We’ve always loved how kid-friendly the Aquarium is, especially the interactive touch experience like Stingray Beach where Giselle

I

and JuJu look forward to getting their hands wet, petting stingrays and sharks. The No Bone Zone touch exhibit allows for another hands-on and learning experience about sea anemones, starfish (we learned they’re actually called sea stars), and more!

We recently visited the Aquarium on World Oceans Day for the opening of a new exhibit called Moon Bay where you can touch ocean jellies, also known as jellyfish, except they’re not actually fish. My youngest daughter JuJu even reminds us at home with her plush animals of this proper technique to safely and gently interact with animals at one of our favorite Tampa destinations. The new exhibit gives us just one more reason to visit the Aquarium regularly.

With summer’s arrival in Tampa Bay, we’re looking forward to even more frequent visits to The Splash Pad and to the Aquarium exhibits.

It’s air conditioned inside, and our daughters love seeing the animals. I highly recommend The Florida Aquarium for anyone, whether for the kids or if you’re a kid at heart!

Sue Bliss

Sue Bliss works for the Florida Aquarium as their Special Events Manager. She and husband Gerrie have two daughters Giselle, 8, and Giuliana “JuJu,” 5.

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Meet our contributors

thank you advertisers and sponsors

Because of them, we are able to provide this family-friendly resource to you for FREE.

ANU VARMA PANCHAL Anu Varma Panchal has written and edited for area publications for nearly 20

ALISON KAMPMANN

years. She’s ac­t ive on her children’s PTA boards, loves

Julie Tingley is an 8-year

theatre, concerts, the local

Tampa transplant who has

Alison Kampmann is a Tampa

brewery scene and travel,

found her way through

Bay native and graduate of

and spends way too much

numerous professional and

time schlepping her 11 and

parenting transitions by maintaining focus on her

to Tampa after having twins in order to raise her family here.

daily inspirations: Ella, 5,

She’s worked for experiential and advertising agencies on

and Kate, 2. With a vision

major beverage brands, in hospitality and tourism, and in book

of a better future for her

publishing. Working for ZooTampa is her dream job because it

Maggie Rodriguez is a former

girls, she has introduced

brings together her passion for marketing with her passion for

network news anchor who

the KNOW Book + Tribe, a

animals and love for the city of Tampa.

now lives in South Tampa with

women’s publication and

her husband and their two

community, to Tampa Bay.

14-year-olds around in her

MAGGIE RODRIGUEZ

minivan. She never leaves home without her library card. You can find her at youreditingsolutions.com.

TARA PAYOR, PH.D.

Saint Leo University. She’s lived in NYC and Nashville, but moved back

children. She is best known as the host of the nationallytelevised morning news program, The Early Show on CBS, as well as a substitute anchor on The CBS Evening News with Katie Couric. Since relocating to Tampa Bay, Rodriguez has been busy

MARNI FUENTE

rekindling her love for writing, Tara Payor, Ph.D. has a

volunteering, and enjoying

doctorate in Curriculum

weekend adventures.

JULIE TINGLEY

NICOLE BAROLO

Marni L. Fuente, an expert in

Nicole Barolo is the print

and Instruction. She is a

early childhood development,

designer for Tampa Bay

contributing faculty member

has designed and coordinated

Parenting Magazine. She owns

for Walden University,

literacy programs for families

boutique design studio Page

where she guides doctoral

Sarah Cole is the new president and

and children ages birth to 5,

Four Creative. Prior to starting

students through their

CEO of Glazer Children's Museum.

working with state and local

her own design business, she

dissertations. She is also

She brings 18+ years of experience

literacy initiatives. She is the

spent nearly 10 years helping

a language arts educator.

working in museums across the

director of the Quality Early

local schools create and

Reach her at

country, including serving as the

Education System (QEES),

publish yearbooks. She and her

tpayor@gmail.com.

director of education and programs

Conscious Awareness

husband share their home with

at the Glazer Children’s Museum

Learning Model (CALM) and

an 8-year-old ninja-in-training,

when it first opened in 2010. She is

Early Literacy Matters (ELM)

a 9-year-old drummer and a

excited to be back at GCM serving

grant programs at Hillsborough

Boston terrier named Porter.

Tampa Bay families.

Community College (HCC).

SARAH COLE

Story idea?

Are you a local blogger or writer? If you have a content idea or a story to tell, email us. editor@tbparenting.com

GRAYSON KAMM Every day, Grayson Kamm spreads the word about the amazing students, teachers and staff of Hillsborough County Public Schools. As the communications and media officer, Grayson oversees communications for 235 schools in America’s eighth-largest school district. Grayson previously served on the executive team at MOSI following a 13-year career as a TV journalist—reporting on space, science and politics. He and his wife Cathy have two

8

sons in elementary school, Collier and Merritt.

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EARLY CHILDHOOD COUNCIL OF HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, INC. (ECC)

2019

Infant | Toddler | Preschool

Developmental Screenings Ages: Birth to Five

Thursday, July 11th, 2019 | Manhattan Center (FDLRS) 4210 West Bay Villa Avenue, Tampa 33611

SCHEDULE

Thursday, August 15, 2019 | Islamic Society of Tampa Bay 7326 E. Sligh Avenue, Tampa 33610 Friday, September 13, 2019 | South Tampa Fellowship Church 5101 Bayshore Boulevard, Tampa 33611 Friday, October 4, 2019 | St. Mark’s Catholic Church 9724 Cross Creek Boulevard, Tampa 33647

Call (813) 837-7723 813-837-7714 (Spanish) www.ecctampabay.org Screenings are held from 8:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. *By appointment only

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Friday, November 1, 2019 | Mission Hill Church – Lake Carroll 12012 North Rome Avenue, Tampa 33612 Friday, December 6, 2019 | New Beginnings Christian Church 4100 South Manhattan Avenue, Tampa 33611 JULY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

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[ THE INSIDE SCOOP ]

JULY

WHAT'S NEW, OUR FAVORITE THINGS AND MORE WE'RE LOVING FREE AND CHEAP MOVIES ALL SUMMER

Don't miss this

CELEBRATE APOLLO MOON LANDING 50TH ANNIVERSARY

NEW BOOM BY THE BAY

Got that fresh moon smell. Head to MOSI to take a whiff.

AN UNFORGETTABLE

KEEP COOL AND ENJOY FAMILY FAVORITES ON THE BIG SCREEN! SEVERAL LOCAL THEATERS ARE OFFERING SPECIAL DEALS, INCLUDING: Regal Cinemas: $1 movies Tuesday and Wednesday mornings The 2019 Summer Movie Express features kid favorites like “Kung Fu Panda,” “Shrek,” “Despicable Me,” “The LEGO Batman Movie,” “SING,” and more, with the added feel-good bonus of a portion of the proceeds benefiting the Will Rogers Institute. The deal lasts now

JULY 4TH CELEBRATION: BOOM BY THE BAY

Tampa is about to host its largest fireworks display yet. In fact, there won’t just be one show to enjoy, but FOUR along the city’s waterfront. Mayor Jane Castor announced Boom on the Bay, which will feature lots of family-friendly activities. Firework displays will be at Sparkman Wharf, Tampa Convention Center and Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park. That’s 2.5 miles of fireworks displays! Stay tuned to tampagov.net for more info.

FIFTY YEARS AGO TODAY, WE LANDED ON THE MOON, AND MOSI IS THE PLACE TO CELEBRATE THAT ACHIEVEMENT THIS MONTH! On July 16 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., launch high-pressure rockets as part of the Global Rocket Launch. On July 19, watch a live 1 p.m. broadcast featuring NASA experts and enjoy hands-on space science and engineering activities and shows in the One Small Step exhibition. On July 20 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., enjoy rocket building and launching, space origami, and

through July 24, though some theaters

space rover and meteoroid

offer one additional week.

challenges. Watch a real NASA staffer speak and catch a space-themed show or pop-up

AMC Summer Movie Camp: $4 Movie and Kids Pack (plus tax) Wednesday mornings

demonstration. Browse One

AMC’s Summer Movie Camp features

exciting rebroadcast of the

kid favorites every Wednesday morning

original Moon landing!

Small Step, MOSI’s Apollo exhibition, and don’t miss the

like “Trolls,” “Lego Movie 2,” “Hotel Transylvania 3,” and more. Admission includes a snack pack! This deal starts

HEAD TO

June 5 and ends July 31.

tampabayparenting.com

for more

JULY 4

events

Cobb Theatres (now CMX Cinemas) FREE Movies on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings

SNOOPY IN SPACE WITH NASA! Come on over to Glazer Children's Museum to party like an astronaut on July 20! Engineer a lunar rover, experience space in the motion-capture SMALLab, sample space, enjoy story time and make your own planet bracelet.

Head to your local Cobb Theatre (now CMX Cinemas) on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday morning for FREE admission to childhood favorites like “Smallfoot,” “Smurfs,” “Penguins of Madagascar” and more. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. and the movie starts at 10 a.m. The deal will be offered June 11-Aug. 1.

HYUNDAI HOPE ON WHEELS

ST. JOSEPH’S CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL RECENTLY RECEIVED A $100,000 HYUNDAI IMPACT GRANT FROM HYUNDAI HOPE ON WHEELS. The money will go toward pediatric cancer research and programs. Patients who have received treatment added their handprints to a 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe Hero Vehicle traveling the country to other hospitals that will also receive the grant. This year’s donation brings total grant

Check ahead for participating theaters and arrive early to get your tickets.

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TampaBayParenting.com JULY 2019

MOSI's moon rock on display.

dollars donated to St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital through the Hope on Wheels program to more than $1 million.

JULY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

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N IN G E L IG H T SE E "TH RCY E P E TH T H IE F : A L" IC S N MU JAC K S O

Kristen Stokes, Chris McCarrell and George Salazar from the NYC Production of "The Lightning Thief."

July 9 -14 ALL

S A NI H CAROL MORN T E R .O R G

STR A ZC

E

Photo by Jeremy Daniels

from page to stage MAKING “THE LIGHTNING THIEF: THE PERCY JACKSON MUSICAL” 12

TampaBayParenting.com JULY 2019

T

When the show played a commercial off-Broadway run in 2017, it attracted not just super fans of the book but musical theater lovers of every age. “We were getting the millennials and families who read the books,” says producer Barbara Pasternack, “and we were getting adults who read fantasy and the comic con crowd, but we were also seeing audiences who had yet to discover Percy Jackson. These people were coming to experience an exciting rock musical and we definitely delivered.”

During the off-Broadway run, videos of some of the songs went viral on YouTube. And when the cast recording was released, “It bumped “Hamilton” and it went onto the Billboard charts and it bumped Bruno Mars and Beyoncé,” Pasternack relates.

For the creative team, the themes in “The Lightning Thief” have broad appeal: “How do you take action in your life?” says director Stephen Brackett. “How do you advocate for the world that you want to live in?” And, Brackett adds, “I think that’s a story that needs to be told.”

James Hayden Roderiguez and Chris McCarrell in the NYC Production Photo by Jeremy Daniels

By Straz Center staff

he Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical” begins with a loud thunderclap. Then, five performers move to the front of the stage, singing to punchy rock music. It’s a perfect beginning to this clever, hip and irreverent musical, which merges teenage angst with Greek mythology. Adapted from the first book of Rick Riordan’s popular series of novels, “The Lightning Thief” tells the story of Percy Jackson, who discovers not only that his absent father is the Greek god Poseidon, but that he has super powers himself.

Bookwriter Joe Tracz is a huge Percy Jackson fan, and he and his collaborator, songwriter Rob Rokicki, worked tirelessly to find the right tone for the musical. “They’re big action adventure stories,” Tracz explains, “but they have such a sense of humor and heart to them.”

Creating this wild, epic ride, without the sort of special effects available to film makers, required director Stephen Brackett to come up with ingenious staging solutions to tell a story that features not only gods, but mythological monsters. The set has a rock concert vibe, with scaffolding and the stage magic being frequently visible to the audience. “We embrace that you’re actually seeing what it takes to make an effect in front of an audience,” explains Brackett.

@STRAZ CENTER

PATEL CONSERVATORY

M E M R U S ON SALE & C L AS S S P M ES A C

NOW!

DANCE • THEATER • MUSIC patelconservatory.org 813.222.1040

JULY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

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[ DAY 2 ]

[ DAY 3 ]

IN THE HEIGHTS

FOLLOW THE PATH

ARTS AFTERNOON

The historic Tampa Heights neighborhood has become a hotspot thanks to an explosion of growth along the north end of the Riverwalk. Start with lunch at the trendy Armature Works, where dining choices inside the Public Heights Marketplace food hall run the gamut from sushi to pizza to ice cream. Sit under an umbrella and enjoy an unobstructed view of the Hillsborough River while the kids play with the life-size chess set or run around the AstroTurf. If you prefer more traditional table service, the affordable kids’ menu and picture-perfect setting at Ulele Restaurant are tough to beat. Afterwards, linger on the open lawn where you can easily get caught up in a competitive game of cornhole. Cap your afternoon with a visit to Water Works Park. On a hot day, the kids will especially love the giant, water-dropping bucket at the splash pad.

Pack a lunch and a blanket; bring a football or soccer ball; have the kids grab their skateboards or bikes; and just enjoy the path along the water. On weekdays, it’s easy to park along the side of the road along Doyle Carlton Drive just steps from the Riverwalk.

If you’d prefer not to lug your own equipment, bike-sharing stations and Segway rentals are available. You can do almost anything along the paved walkway, except fish or ride electric scooters. You will stumble upon plenty of playgrounds, open fields, dog parks and pretty places to rest along the way. In this case, the journey is the destination.

Image from Straz Center

[ DAY 1 ]

The sweet spot for art lovers is midway through the Riverwalk, where three art venues converge.

The Tampa Museum of Art showcases everything from ancient to contemporary art. The fourth Friday of every month, “pay as you will” admission from 4-8 p.m. allows visitors to pay nothing or make a donation of choice to get in.

Every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the museum offers Art Spot— a free, drop-in, art-making activity for kids of all ages and skill levels based on the current exhibitions. A five-minute walk will get you to The Florida Museum of Photographic Arts, housed in a striking, six-story cube building and displaying impressive contemporary and historic photographs. If you prefer stage arts, The David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts is featuring two kid-friendly productions starring students from The Patel Conservatory: “Newsies” (July 6 and 7) and “Annie, Jr.” (July 18-28).

fun ON THE

RIVERWALK

seven days, seven ways to enjoy Tampa's Riverwalk areas Story and pictures by Maggie Rodriguez

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TampaBayParenting.com JULY 2019

Summer is about enjoying the outdoors, but it can be tough to come up with ideas to fill those long days. Have you visited the Tampa Riverwalk lately? With 2.5 miles to explore, you could go there every day for an entire week and have a completely different experience each time. Here are seven ideas for family fun-filled afternoons.

[ DAY 4 ]

[ DAY 5 ]

KIDS ZONE

HIT THE WATER

Armature Works

[1] Ulele

[2] N

OROUGH

RI V

ER

Water Works Park

[3] Tampa Museum of Art

HILLSB Start with a picnic lunch at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, followed by a game of Frisbee or catch on the Great Lawn. When it’s time to cool off, the kids will love running through the two interactive fountains. Then, head inside the Glazer Children’s Museum.

If you visit on the first Tuesday of the month, admission is free between noon and 6 p.m. Special attractions this month include a focus on France as part of Worldwide Wednesdays and the Tampa Mini Maker Faire on July 27, showcasing innovative inventions and hobbies.

Options for enjoying a few hours on the Hillsborough River abound in the area near the Tampa Convention Center. Around the Sail Plaza, you will see plenty of places to rent water bikes, pedal boats, electric boats and stand-up paddle boards. Expect to spend around $30 per hour. You can also hop on the Pirate Water Taxi and travel up and down the river. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you’ll find more dining choices than ever in this stretch of the Riverwalk. Two Tampa staples are slated to open outposts this month: Datz at the Convention Center and Big Ray’s Fish Camp alongside The Sail.

[ DAY 6 ]

Image from Tampa History Center

TAMPA'S RIVERWALK

Straz Center

[4]

Glazer Children's Museum

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park Museum of Photographic Arts

Tampa Convention Center Sail Plaza

[5]

Tampa History Center

[6]

Sparkman Wharf

[7]

GA R R I S O N C H A N N E L HARBOR ISLAND An action-packed week at the Riverwalk awaits. Check tampasdowntown.com or thetampariverwalk. com for a calendar of summer events.

LIVE HISTORY Step back in time at the Tampa History Center at the south end of the Riverwalk. Kids will especially enjoy the Treasure Seekers Gallery, highlighting conquistadors, pirates, an 18th-century pirate ship and shipwrecks with artifacts dating back to the 1600s. On the Fourth of July, admission is only $5, and guests can interact with reenactors representing several eras of military history. A Cuban sandwich at the historic Columbia Cafe and some fun on the playground next door will complete your visit to this part of the Riverwalk.

GoHart.org has the official downtown Tampa guide and map

[ DAY 7 ]

A STREETCAR NAMED TECO For a fun and free way to get around, hop on the TECO Line Streetcar connecting downtown, the Channel District and Ybor City. Start at Sparkman Wharf at the easternmost part of the Riverwalk. Watch the cruise ships departing the Port of Tampa, pick up lunch at one of the shipping containersturned-restaurants, and just relax in the eclectic setting. Another good stop on the streetcar line is the Florida Aquarium, where kids can connect with the sea and play all day long at the popular splash pad. Just next door, The American Victory Ship and Museum is also worth a visit, and you can get in for free by signing up for a Discovery Pass using your library card at hclpc.com.

JULY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

15

moms

meet two Tampa mamas who share stories of victory and leadership

By Julie Tingley, KNOW Tampa and KNOW St. Pete/Clearwater

Talk about shattering glass ceilings, or better yet, living and growing as if there are no limits. And the best part of this: passing that freedom down to the next generation. When it comes to leadership, when it comes to taking their teams all the way, these two women know victory on the court, on the bench and in the big game of parenting.

Lauren Holtkamp-Sterling NBA REFEREE

Image by Ashlee Hamon Photography

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TampaBayParenting.com JULY 2019

Lauren Holtkamp-Sterling is a new mommy who believes that sport is a unique means for encountering the sacred gift of life and service.

She has the joy of living this out as a referee in the National Basketball Association (NBA). After developing in the NBA G-League and officiating in the WNBA, Holtkamp-Sterling became the third woman hired as an NBA referee and is the only woman to currently hold the position. Before joining the NBA staff, HoltkampSterling officiated for the NCAA and FIBA, leading to her invitation to work the 2016 Olympic Games in Brazil.

Holtkamp-Sterling earned her master of divinity from Emory University and is a member of the Tampa Bay chapter of Women in Sports and Events (WISE). Along with the National Basketball Referee Association (NBRA), she volunteers with Scholastic’s TIMEOUT for Reading program and Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS). Holtkamp-Sterling lives in Tampa with her husband, Jonathan, their dog, MJ, and their first baby girl, who was born in June.

Image by Rana Tierney, Roohi Photography

to KNOW

Jessica Costello COUNTY COURT JUDGE, 13TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT Maybe it was a small coincidence that Jessica Costello was photographed for the KNOW Book on the stairs of La Méridien, the former Historic Federal Courthouse in downtown Tampa. Only a few months later, she was appointed to the Hillsborough County Court Bench.

Prior to her judicial appointment, Costello served as an assistant statewide prosecutor with the Florida Attorney General's Office. In this role, she managed local, state and federal law enforcement teams in the prosecution of organized crime throughout the state with a focus on counter-terrorism, gangs, human trafficking, drug trafficking and fraud.

In the community, Costello gives back by serving as a mentor and working with at-risk youth. Although she’s been named Florida’s Gang Prosecutor of the Year, a YWCA ‘Woman of Color Leading Change,’ and to the Tampa Bay Business Journal’s ‘Up and Comers’ Hall of Fame, she considers becoming a mother at the end of 2017 as her greatest accomplishment. It has only intensified her drive to help make our community a vibrant and safe place for all Floridians.

Costello resides in Tampa with her husband Shane and almost 2-year-old son, Cameron.

LEARN MORE about the KNOW Tampa book at theknowtribe.com

THIS

CLOSE TO COOL

VOTED TOP 2 AQUARIUM IN NORTH AMERICA BY USA TODAY READERS You’ll love our rainforest themed outdoor Splash Pad, offering exhilarating slides, climbing ventures and splashy fun for the kids. Enjoy our cool air-conditioned inside, where you’ll meet thousands of amazing sea creatures. Immerse yourself in our exciting Waves Of Wonder Gallery, featuring our Heart Of The Sea exhibit with interactive daily dive shows. Experience our mesmerizing 4-D Theater, Fins Cantina and much more. Even search for dolphins on our Wild Dolphin Cruise* in Tampa Bay!

AND

Be sure to purchase your tickets in advance online for big savings. *Reservations and additional fees required. Weather permitting.

flaquarium.org | 813.273.4000 JULY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com 17

GUEST EDITOR

of fun

THE FLORIDA AQUARIUM IS A MUST-VISIT DESTINATION FOR SUMMER FUN AND DISCOVERY

By Sue Bliss t the Florida Aquarium, meet more than 14,000 Florida natives and exotic animals from around the world. Go from tree level to sea level, starting your journey along the Florida Wetlands Trail where you can come faceto-face with alligators, playful otters and free-flying birds. Journey to Madagascar and get nose-to-nose with ring-tailed lemurs, see dazzling Indian Ocean coral and fishes, and meet other fascinating residents from the Island Country.

Continue your Aquarium experience by winding through the Bays and Beaches gallery where you can see some of Tampa Bay’s native wildlife and even touch a stingray and bamboo shark. Finally, make your way out to the Coral Reef and experience the Aquarium’s half-milliongallon coral reef exhibit featuring sand tiger sharks, sea turtles and thousands of tropical fish.

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Now, more than ever, there are so many reasons to visit The Florida Aquarium.

TOUCH A MOON JELLY AT MOON BAY.

Get a feel for the Aquarium’s newest interactive jelly touch experience. Don’t miss out on this new exhibit which is only the fourth of its kind in North America!

EXPERIENCE THE WAVES OF WONDER GALLERY FEATURING THE HEART OF THE SEA EXHIBIT.

Discover ocean jellies, watch a giant Pacific octopus and visit colorful clownfish as they look out from their sea anemone homes. Learn about the Aquarium’s conservation field work that saves coral reefs, sea turtles and sharks with the Heart of the Sea display.

COOL OFF AT THE SPLASH PAD. Bring a swimsuit and towel and soak up the Florida sun while making a splash in the outdoor kids’ water play area with spray zones, water dump buckets and a dry-side shaded play area. Parents can enjoy a beverage at FINS cantina and lunch at Café Ray. HAVE A 4D EXPERIENCE® IN THE 4 DUCKS 4-D THEATER.

With multiple showings of kids’ movies and wildlife documentaries each hour, it’s a great way to cool off and enjoy a new dimension of fun.

VOYAGE OUT INTO TAMPA BAY ON A WILD DOLPHIN CRUISE.

Take to the seas and search for Atlantic bottlenose dolphins while sailing on the Aquarium’s 72-foot Bay Spirit II catamaran. Learn about the many animals that call Tampa Bay home.

SWIM WITH THE FISH AND SHARKS .

There’s no better way to cool off from the summer heat than to immerse yourself in one of the Aquarium’s exhibits. Kids ages 6 and above can swim in the Aquarium’s Heart of the Sea exhibit among bonnethead sharks, a sea turtle and more. Kids ages 9 and above can meet sand tiger sharks with a Shark Swim in the Aquarium’s half-million-gallon Coral Reef habitat.

istock.com/ VladoOndo

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE FLORIDA AQUARIUM AND ALL ITS SUMMER ADVENTURES AND EXPERIENCES AT FLAQUARIUM.ORG.

JULY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

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NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE IN TAMPA, YOU’RE NEVER MORE THAN ONE SMALL STEP FROM MOSI

Celebrate the pioneering spirit of the Apollo moon landing as it paved the way to our future in the stars during this exciting summer exhibition.

SUMMER ART INSTALLATION AT MOSI B O T H E X H I B I T I O N S G O I N G O N N O W AT M O S I !

4 8 0 1 E A S T F O W L E R AV E • TA M P A • 8 1 3 - 9 8 7 - 6 0 0 0 • M O S I . O R G MOSI is a leader in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) education dedicated to making a difference in people’s lives by making science real.

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Call today to schedule a personal tour!

Call today to schedule a personal tour!

JULY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

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wow them

with space

5 WAYS TO CONNECT KIDS TO SPACE EXPLORATION

By Grayson Kamm

By Grayson Kamm, Communications & Media Officer, Hillsborough County Public Schools

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DOWNLOAD SMARTPHONE APPS THAT TAKE YOU TO THE STARS. Open the Starlight app and point your phone toward the sky to identify constellations, planets and much more. Use the ISS Spotter app to predict when you can step outside and watch the International Space Station soar overhead. The official NASA app is loaded with amazing pictures that gaze up toward space and down toward Earth.

VISIT MOSI, THE MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & INDUSTRY, IN TAMPA. Explore a simulated lunar colony designed in collaboration with NASA inside Mission: Moonbase; tour the stars and planets in the Saunders Planetarium; and touch a real 4.5billion-year-old meteorite. MOSI also offers space-themed Summer Science Camps for young explorers.

Photo from Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

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SEND YOUR NAME TO ANOTHER WORLD. Until Sept. 30, you can submit your child’s name to NASA where they’ll etch it onto a microchip that’s heading to Mars on the upcoming Mars 2020 mission.

Then follow the mission to see what our trusty robot lander from Earth can learn about the Red Planet. Go to bitly.com/ marsname2020 to sign up. See you in Outer Space!

VISIT THE KENNEDY SPACE CENTER VISITOR COMPLEX. This must-do trip for any space-lover is just two hours east of Tampa Bay. Start with a bus tour past real rocket launch pads, gaze up-close at an actual mammoth moon rocket and experience a world-class encounter with the real Space Shuttle Atlantis. Admission also includes a presentation and Q&A with an actual astronaut, immersive IMAX movies and amazing historical items like spacesuits still spattered with moon dust and a real piece of the moon you can touch.

SIGN UP FOR A STEM PROGRAM. There are special STEM programs focusing on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math available at schools in nearly every Tampa Bay neighborhood. Hillsborough County Public Schools, for example, has more than 30 STEM programs, such as Stewart Middle Magnet School and Middleton High School, nationally recognized institutions where students can explore space and engineering. Head to hillsboroughschools.org/choice to discover your options.

STEM at Turner-Bartels K-8 School

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READY TO CONNECT YOUR KIDS TO THE WONDERS OF SPACE AS THEY GROW? TALKING ABOUT THE FIRST MOON LANDING, WHICH HAPPENED 50 YEARS AGO THIS MONTH ON JULY 20, 1969, IS ONE WAY TO GET THEIR IMAGINATIONS GOING. CHECK OUT FIVE MORE FUN WAYS TO CONNECT YOUR KIDS WITH SPACE EXPLORATION.

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5 COOL CONNECTIONS BETWEEN TAMPA BAY AND OUTER SPACE

AS A NEWS REPORTER COVERING AMERICA’S SPACE PROGRAM FOR MANY YEARS, I GOT TO LIVE OUT THE DREAMS I HAD AS A KID GROWING UP DOWN THE STREET FROM THE KENNEDY SPACE CENTER ON FLORIDA’S EAST COAST. I INTERVIEWED ASTRONAUTS, COVERED TEETH-RATTLING ROCKET LAUNCHES AND EVEN CLIMBED INSIDE A REAL SPACESHIP (WHILE IT WAS STILL SECURELY ON THE GROUND, OF COURSE).

EVEN THOUGH MY OWN TWO SONS WILL BE GROWING UP HERE ON THE WEST COAST OF FLORIDA, I HAVE WAYS TO GET THEM INTERESTED IN SPACE, TOO. THAT’S BECAUSE THERE ARE A SURPRISING NUMBER OF COOL CONNECTIONS ANY OF US CAN SHARE WITH OUR KIDS THAT LINK TAMPA BAY TO OUTER SPACE. HERE ARE FIVE SPACE CONVERSATION-STARTERS:

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Photo from NASA

Photo from Disney

THE VOICE OF KENNEDY SPACE CENTER IS A USF GRADUATE WHO GREW UP IN SARASOTA AND CLEARWATER. His name is George Diller, and he’s famous for his “liftoff lines” when the Space Shuttles blasted off. You can search YouTube for great videos of his exciting “And we have liftoff…” messages during launches.

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4 SPACESHIP EARTH, the huge sphere in the middle of Epcot at Walt Disney World, was built in Tampa. OK, this isn’t a real spaceship, but it’s really cool. The metal skeleton inside Epcot’s famous “golf ball” was all measured, cut and put together by the workers at Tampa Steel Erecting Company near Riverview. The steel parts were taken piece-by-piece on trucks down I-4 to the theme park, where the company’s owner says they were put together like “a Tinkertoy set.”

CLEARWATER HIGH SCHOOL HAS NOT ONE, BUT TWO, ASTRONAUT GRADUATES. Both Bruce Melnick and Nicole Stott flew on the Space Shuttle after growing up in Tampa Bay and attending Clearwater High. Both are amazing astronauts, but also dedicated parents.

When Stott lived on the International Space Station for three months, she took a break to call home to Earth almost every night to help tuck her young son into bed.

Bruce Melnick

Photos from NASA

Photo from NASA

MANY OF THE CONTROLS AND COMPUTERS ASTRONAUTS USED ON THE SPACE SHUTTLE WERE BUILT IN TAMPA BAY. People working for a company in Clearwater called Honeywell created many shuttle parts. Two of their most important ones: the computers that told the shuttle’s main engines when to start and stop, and the hand controls astronauts used to move the shuttle’s long robot arm.

Nicole Stott SOME OF THE MOST HELPFUL TOOLS USED IN TAMPA BAY TODAY WERE INVENTED FOR THE APOLLO MOON LANDING PROGRAM 50 YEARS AGO. Some examples: cordless power tools (originally used for astronaut tools on the moon); digital cameras (designed to replace film cameras when sending pictures from space to Earth); and MRI machines that save lives with medical scans (originally used to scan spaceship parts to look for damage).

Photo from National Institutes of Health

Photo from US Air Force

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make it fun!

GLAZER EMBRACES MAKER CULTURE

By Sarah Cole, President & CEO of Glazer Children’s Museum

By Sarah Cole, President and CEO of Glazer Children's Museum

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makers is that their skill and their ideas may not align. The frustration of that misalignment can lead our young makers to give up. But making, and its sibling, tinkering, are the perfect spaces to practice perseverance. It can be hard for a child when their idea doesn’t work, so parents can help support them by pointing out what went well and asking questions to help the child find solutions. Remind your child that it’s OK to be frustrated and that you get frustrated too! Guiding them through the frustration will lead to a sense of accomplishment that will stick with them.

Now, to all of you thinking, “but I have no skills at this,” congratulations!

You’re the right person for the job.

When we teach a child “the right way” to make something, that’s great. But when we learn alongside our children, that’s magic. A child knows when you’re playing along and when you are genuinely engaged in something new. Don’t be afraid to fail in front of them. At the Museum this summer, we’ll have lots of tools, tech, gadgets and materials to play with, as well as helpers to give safety lessons and get you started. Come join us! Let’s make a better world together!

Images from Glazer Children's Museum

hen I was a kid, I drove my parents crazy making things.

Old tissue boxes became bassinets for dolls. Discarded socks became Barbie dresses. Those little plastic things that came on top of pizza? Perfect bistro tables for Lego guys. I fished things out of the garbage to make boats for GI Joes and zip lines for My Little Ponies. And my parents let me. Now I’m a parent, and I want to thank my folks for giving me the space and support to create as a kid. What I know now, but didn’t then, was that tinkering with cardboard and yarn led me to a lifetime of creating solutions and making!

So, what is making? The wonderful thing about making is that it encompasses many arts, crafts and tech. Making is part DIY, part hacking, with a healthy dose of invention. To quote Thomas Edison, “To invent, you need a good imagination and a pile of junk.” Our kids have the first in spades, so we just need to provide the junk! Making allows us to learn by experimenting, doing and failing.

This summer at the Glazer Children’s Museum, we’re embracing maker culture in many ways. One of the stumbling blocks for many young

SUMMERR MAKING!

T H RO U G H J U LY 2 7 Tinker, build, and create designs, solutions, and incredible inventions at GCM! GlazerMuseum.org

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makerfairetampa.com HOSTED BY T H A N KS TO

GET READY FOR

calm

EASE TRANSITIONS TO SCHOOL OR BACK TO SCHOOL AND BEYOND

By Marni Fuente

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the chaos

grew up in. The landscape of the world and school looks different in every way—from the use of technology in smart classrooms and homes to dwindling schoolyards and green space. Expectations for the future look different and we are all unique. Every child will see, relate and react to the world in diverse and unique ways.

Adults in any child’s life will need to respond with compassion by being present, "in the here and now," and by trying to see and understand each child’s perspective.

Active listening, which requires being fully present and attentive, helps adults and children engage in meaningful and relatable conversations with each other, which develops strong connections and relationships. The more we really hear children’s feelings as a reflection of their needs, the easier it is to understand them—without needing to agree with them or feel responsible for their emotions.

Taking this time with our children and being

supportive helps children build strong and lasting social-emotional, self-regulatory and resiliency skills. These are life skills which will help children during significant, transitional life stages and to cope well with all of life’s challenges.

Stepping out of our busy lives to listen can also be a gift for us as adults. As we mature on our own life paths, we can learn, grow and try new approaches beyond those we inherited from our own parents. One of my favorite sayings is, “Being in the present is a gift, that’s why it’s called the present.” Our children have a wonderful way of reminding us how important living in the present can be; they truly live in the moment, awakening to the new day with a clean slate. Parents, teachers and caregivers often carry the weight of yesterday and years past on their shoulders. We can and should try to give ourselves the "gift" of a new day—a reset and restart with the sunrise. What we are tasked with, having and helping young children develop emotional balance and coping skills, is not easy and I often remind myself of this as a parent, friend and professional.

If we are mindful, calm adults, operating in our executive or rational-thinking states-of-mind, then we are able to reflect on what’s happening to our children during key transitions and can help them negotiate their confluence of emotions ranging from excitement to distress.

Entering kindergarten is a major milestone in a young child's life after attending preschool. It represents the transition to "big kid" school with its alternate schedule and routines—new drop-off and pick-up routines, new teachers, bigger classes, the potential for changing classrooms,

istock.com/ AaronAmat

ummer is a nostalgic time for parents and a joyous, traditional break from the school routine for young children.

However, transitioning to school or back to school in the fall—with its early rising, backpack-filling, new schedules and routines and homework—is exciting but also anxiety and stress producing for parents and children alike. Back-to-school or the start of "big kid" school represents a roller coaster of emotions for all family members and for different reasons, but these feelings are real and sometimes tumultuous, having an impact on the entire family.

Being aware of the bundled emotions at the start of the new school year and taking a mindful, self-aware approach can help set the entire family up for success.

Remember, even the most well-adjusted child may feel apprehensive about the unknowns of the new school year. This is especially true for children transitioning into kindergarten. Kindergarten is one of many large transitions in a young child's life that include transitions from elementary to middle school, middle to high school and perhaps a move to a new school or community. Other stressors can come from changes in a child’s social support system like a new family structure through death or divorce, a close friend moving away, or simply the adjustment to a new teacher with a different personality and expectations.

Young children often have difficulty connecting the “what” and “why” of their feelings. This can lead to a flood of emotions and behaviors. It’s important for parents, adults and teachers to listen to their children respectfully instead of dismissing their feelings or trying to ‘fix’ their emotions. Rather, we may allow children to feel and express their emotions: sad, mad, angry, frustrated, annoyed, nervous, excited, overwhelmed and a host of mixed feelings. We are their support system, so to do this successfully and in the most conscious way, we must be aware that the world is a different place than the one we

older children and a larger school environment. There is also the socialemotional pressure of being the youngest, making new friends and fitting in. Some of these are immediate adjustments which would be difficult and stressful enough for adults, let alone young children. If parents and young children have practiced mindfulness and self-calming techniques ahead of the kindergarten (or any school) transition, then everyone, adults and children alike, will be better self-regulated when the stress and tension rise and it will be clear how effective these mindfulness strategies can be during crunch time.

Children entering kindergarten are still operating in an emotional state, and often can’t isolate and explain all of their feelings, which elicits other behaviors. Taking time as a family to read, reflect and have conversations about going to "big kid" school for the first time helps children connect with their feelings, identify their confusing behaviors, build confidence in problem-solving, relate better to others and sort out the world around them.

Adults often forget how BIG the world can be to children—how their imagination and fears may drive their actions and leave them feeling vulnerable. We, as adults, may feel some of the same emotions but we must try to react differently and see through a different lens—one through which we can draw on prior experience in which we proceeded to solve problems and conflict using our executive state functions—our calm, rational selves.

We may not always do it right, but we are evolving and can be more aware of our choices in handling life's stressors.

The goal for parents, teachers and family is to be aware of children’s feelings and be supportive without intensifying children's worries. Adults will need to pause and reflect in order to respond positively to their children's needs rather than trying to change or dismiss their children's feelings or fix situations.

Saying, "Shhh," placating feelings or losing our tempers will not help children be problem-solvers. Adults will need to pause in order to be positively responsive and not reactive. We are moving so fast all the time, meeting the needs of the world and responding to a constant influx of information, that we may need to give ourselves a moment to regroup, breathe some fresh air for a few minutes and return from an emotional state to a calm, executive state.

VISIT calmhcc.org and earlyliteracymatters.com for more information, family tips and professional development.

TAKE ON YOUR STATE OF MIND AND FEELINGS As this summer ends, we can all try to slow each day down and do a feelings “check-in" on ourselves and then on our partners and children. We can notice topics that may come up during the conversation and circle back to them for follow-up. We can also observe our children at play to help them identify and handle their emotions.

Here are a few recommended mindful exercises and tips for helping children and families successfully ease back in to school:

• PERFORM A "CHECK-IN" ON YOUR OWN STRESS LEVEL BECAUSE CHILDREN CAN FEED OFF OF OUR EMOTIONAL STATES.

Children can’t download CALM and manage their emotions if the adults in their lives are unable to do the same. If you are in an anxious, frustrated state, it's extremely difficult to respond to your partner or children in an open, engaged and mindful way.

• GIVE YOURSELF TIME AND SPACE TO FIRST REFLECT, THEN RESPOND. Children can sense the atmosphere around them and will act accordingly; if you are calm, then they will be when they seek you out for guidance.

• READ AND DISCUSS PERTINENT LITERATURE OVER THE SUMMER IN PREPARATION FOR THE SUMMER-TOSCHOOL TRANSITION. Check out these titles:

⊲ First Day Jitters

⊲ What Does It Mean to be Present?

⊲ Alphabreaths: The ABCs of Mindful

⊲ Breathe with Me: Using Breath to Feel

⊲ In My Room

⊲ Sticks and Stones

⊲ My Worry

Breathing

Strong, Calm and Happy

• READ ABOUT THE INITIATIVE IN HILLS-

BOROUGH COUNTY:

The Children’s Board of Hillsborough County, in partnership with Program Director Marni Fuente and Hillsborough Community College, funds the Quality Early Education System (QEES) at the college and its supporting programs Conscious Awareness Learning Model (CALM) and Early Literacy Matters (ELM). CALM and ELM staffs work collaboratively to help teachers, students and families develop sound social-emotional and literacy skills which go hand-in-hand to promote learning and academic success. To build a strong foundation for young children, adults must be willing, prepared and able to model effective mindfulness and social-emotional skills and support early literacy strategies at home. Together, parents, teachers and caregivers can build the strongest foundation for our children’s future.

JULY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

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GET READY FOR

A SNAP SCHOOL'S

when you practice these habits

By Tara Payor, Ph.D.

chool may be around the corner, but the humidity is still so thick we can cut through it like Key lime pie. What shouldn’t we cut?

The practice of cultivating the habits of highly effective people in our children during the summer.

Stephen Covey authored the “7 Habits of Highly Effective People.” The habits are: 1. BE PROACTIVE; 2.

BEGIN WITH THE END IN MIND; 3. PUT FIRST THINGS FIRST; 4. THINK WIN-WIN; 5. SEEK FIRST TO UNDERSTAND, THEN TO BE UNDERSTOOD; 6. SYNERGIZE; AND 7.

SHARPEN THE SAW. Parents are wise to support making these habits the norm for children from elementary age to adolescents.

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Three teachers share their wisdom about how parents can implement these habits before school opens without cutting out summer fun.

WISDOM FROM AUTUMN WITT (EXPERIENCE: KINDERGARTEN, 8 YEARS; 1ST GRADE, 2 YEARS)

Mom to 17, 15, and 11-year-olds, Witt is familiar with the summer slide and intentional in preventing it. “I encourage reading for enjoyment, which includes articles, e-books, comic books and listening to chapter books.” She suggests setting up apps on smart devices and visiting bookstores as a family as ways to be proactive Autumn Witt and family toward a successful academic year. Since beginning with the end in mind is key, Witt underscores creating buy-in and celebrating success: “No need for anything costly when rewarding summertime academic goals.” Championing putting first things first, she notes that parents can openly make play and socialization priorities over the summer.

“Take the vacation, make memories, and climb trees. Sprinkle in daily reading where it fits,” she says. Regardless of an activity’s nature, parents can infuse academic language. “I teach kindergarteners phrases like, ‘I heard you say…’ and ‘I agree with you because…’” Focused conversations allow kids to repeat things back and respectfully respond. Experienced with kids of all ages, Witt nudges parents to help kids sharpen the saw by providing choice—something to try before August’s hustle resumes: “When kids have ownership and choice, they have greater interest and confidence.”

WISDOM FROM ALLISON SCHAER (EXPERIENCE: 4TH GRADE, 14 YEARS)

Mom to 9 and 7-year-old daughters, Schaer believes that if kids are idle for two months, we risk them losing foundational skills. “Balance is key,” she says. “A few minutes of daily reading is significant.”

She suggests logging work, rewards, workbooks and routines to support a proactive approach throughout the summer and into the school year.

Maintain balance by finding learning experiences within summer vacations. “Look for ways to make trips meaningful and educational in exciting ways.”

Nurture putting first things first: “Set the example to get harder or less desirable activities done first.”

What’s hard for one child might be easy for another, and Schaer knows parents can help kids grow a win-win habit by breaking the cycle of comparison early. “All kids have some genius and parents must Allison Schaer and family nurture and praise them for it.

Parents must be cheerleaders and model cheering on others.” This feeds synergy.

Conversations throughout summer and beyond can help kids recognize that “people with different views and backgrounds can be parts of improved solutions.”

Summer offers needed time for self-renewal, and Schaer suggests trying new things and volunteering.

As a mother and educator, she believes summer is an opportune time to practice giving kids more space for growing into highly effective people. “Parents would be pleasantly surprised to see what kids can get through independently.”

WISDOM FROM MAILEN BOND (EXPERIENCE: 1ST GRADE, 15 YEARS)

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Mailen Bond and family

Mom to 8 and 5-year-olds, Bond encourages involving kids in life’s daily activities to prevent loss of literacy and math skills over the summer. “They can assist with writing grocery lists and adding items at the store. They get excited about learning and confident about their skills.” Bond supports a balanced approached to summer R & R—academics shouldn’t be last on the list. “Kids aren’t in busy mode their entire wake time. There’s always downtime for reading.”

She sees additional home time during the summer as helpful for reinforcing a win-win attitude. “I point out that my husband and I disagree and approach problems differently. In classrooms and at home, we can discuss solutions that are simultaneously appropriate and different.” Bond wants families to sharpen the saw by going outside. “Show kids that we work hard and earn vacations. Enjoy walks, swims and water balloon tosses. We have state parks and beaches ideal for family time and fostering togetherness.”

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GET READY FOR

keeping school cool THE RESULTS OF THE HALF-PENNY SALES TAX REFERENDUM

By Laura Cross, Hillsborough County Public Schools, Images from Hillsborough County Schools

A

Work continues at Lithia Springs Elementary in east Hillsborough County. This project alone is estimated to cost $4 million.

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Next summer, more schools will get new air conditioning. Each year for the next decade, more revenue will come in from the Half-Penny Sales Tax to pay for the next round of projects.

Unfortunately, there’s no way this kind of project can be done with students and staff in the building. Everything needed to teach and learn has been boxed up or covered in plastic. Dozens of construction workers are walking in and out, with wires everywhere, debris falling from ceilings and crates of new parts lining the hallways. The entire school is a hard-hat zone—and it’s HOT! Obviously, to replace the air conditioning, you need to tear the old one out. The skeleton administrative staff at Lithia Springs is relegated to an upstairs media center, where large pipes blast air into that one room.

Yes, it’s an inconvenience. However, in two short months, when students and staff return to Lithia Springs Elementary, they will be comfortable and ready to learn.

Which, as anyone with a child under ten knows, is half the battle!

istock.com/ rvika

nyone who has a child under 10 knows comfort is a priority when it comes to their little bodies. If the temperature is too hot or cold, they cannot focus, and you will hear about their discomfort—repeatedly!

Now, imagine you are a teacher, working with 22 of these uncomfortable, sweaty children.

It doesn’t make for a very good learning environment.

That’s why Lithia Springs Elementary School looks like an absolute mess this summer with ceilings ripped apart, cables hanging down into hallways and classrooms gutted.

Lithia Springs Elementary is one of 21 schools across Hillsborough County getting a brand-new air-conditioning system this summer with dollars raised by the Half-Penny Sales Tax. Hillsborough County Public Schools delivers an excellent education—it’s ranked at the top of the nation’s large school districts and continues to set new academic records—but in some cases, the classrooms where the learning happens are ready for an overhaul.

Lithia Springs Principal Kevin Martin said some of the 26-year-old components of his school’s air-conditioning system gave out repeatedly last year, sending temperatures up over 80 degrees in some rooms. “But it was the humidity that was really bad. You just couldn’t get the humidity out of the rooms,” he says.

This August, conditions will be different.

Students will leave the heat behind as they sit in cool classrooms, thanks to the investment of Half-Penny Sales Tax dollars from the people of Hillsborough County.

This comfort comes at a cost. The massive two-month effort to replace the air-conditioning (plus the ceilings and pipes and much more) at Lithia Springs Elementary costs $4 million—and that’s on the less expensive end of the spectrum.

High schools can cost double that. That’s why Hillsborough Schools had to select which schools would receive air conditioning projects first, based on total need.

FIND OUT MORE ON THE HALF-PENNY SALES TAX AND PROJECT TIMELINES HILLSBOROUGHSCHOOLS.ORG/ CITIZENOVERSIGHT

FREE DEVELOPMENTAL SCREENINGS AND NAVIGATION OF RESOURCES AND COMMUNITY SERVICES CALL 2-1-1 OR E-MAIL DMINK@ECCTAMPABAY.ORG

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Ongoing enrollment Drop by our current location Plantation Town Center, 4802 Gunn Hwy. Ste 158 or call 813-933-9321

Be a part of the magic!

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ENJOY EVERY MOMENT

BIRDS UNDERWATER

320 N.W. US HWY 19 Crystal River, 34428 352-563-2763; birdsunderwater.com Bird’s Underwater Dive Center is located directly on Crystal River just off Highway 19 next to Charlie’s Fish House. Join us on a manatee tour, let us put you on the water in a kayak, or check one off your bucket list and learn to scuba dive.

BUSCH GARDENS TAMPA BAY

10165 N. McKinley Drive, Tampa, 33612 813-884-4FUN; buschgardens.com/tampa Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay is the ultimate family adventure, offering 300 acres of fascinating attractions based on exotic explorations around the world. A unique blend of thrilling rides as well as one of the country's premier zoos with more than 12,000 animals, live shows, restaurants, shops and games, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay provides unrivaled excitement for guests of every age.

CADE MUSEUM FOR CREATIVITY AND INVENTION

904 S. Main St., Gainesville, 32601 352-371-8001; cademuseum.org The Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention is a museum for all ages and a perfect summer day trip or weekend destination. Meet world-class inventors and enjoy a broad range of exhibits and hands-on activities throughout the museum. Learn more: cademuseum.org

COLOR ME MINE

730 S. Village Circle, Tampa, 33606 813-258-8368; tampa.colormemine.com Seven weeks packed full of FUN projects! Each week will include ceramic projects and painting techniques, including actually making a piece. A variety of other craft projects, games and an ice cream or pizza party will finish the week on Friday.

CRAYOLA EXPERIENCE

8001 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, 32809 407-757-1700; crayolaexperience.com Discover the magic of color at Crayola’s premier, one-of-a-kind family attraction with dozens of hands-on, creative activities and a full day of fun. Bigger, brighter and bolder than ever, the colorful adventures of Crayola Experience help kids and adults alike explore art and technology, express their creativity and experience color in a whole new way.

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TOP 10 USA BEACH 6 years running

BOARD THIS SUMMER? MAKE WAVES ON

St. Pete Beach!

Kick back, relax and cool off with a trip to the coast! With more things to see and do for your whole crew at TradeWinds Island Resorts, it’s the perfect time to head west for your best vacation yet.

877.257.3716 JustLetGo.com/SUMMER JULY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

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THE TOP

By Alison Kampmann, ZooTampa Brand Manager and mom of twins

SPONSORED

ZOO TAMPA

SUMMER BUCKET LIST ITEMS

WITH SO MUCH TO DO AND SEE AT ZOOTAMPA, WE ARE COUNTING DOWN THE TOP 5 OF THE COOLEST THINGS TO PUT ON YOUR SUMMER BUCKET LIST. nd with ticketing options including annual memberships where the whole family plus a guest can come back for a full 12 months, or Pay for a Day where you can come back through the end of 2019, the opportunities for fun at the Zoo are endless! Plus, now through Aug. 31, Teachers and First Responders can get in FREE with the purchase of a single-day ticket.*

A

4 5 2

VISIT A MANATEE PATIENT AT THE NEWLY RENOVATED DAVID A. STRAZ, JR. MANATEE CRITICAL CARE CENTER. Inside the Manatee Mangrove, you will feel as though you’ve gone underground as you get nose-to-nose with these beautiful and slow-moving creatures. But don’t wait—our manatees don’t live at the Zoo. They are on the road to recovery and release to their native waters!

MAKE A SPLASH AT THE WALLAROO SPLASHPAD. A perfect spot for parents to rest and recharge while even the littlest adventurers cool down and run around. With spray zones, dump buckets, shaded seating, and Boomers – a grab-n-go grill restaurant—the whole family can enjoy this must-visit summer spot. (Bonus cool: grab an Australian

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ADD EVEN MORE WOW TO YOUR SUMMER WITH AN INCREDIBLE ANIMAL ENCOUNTER. Get nose-to-horn with an Indian or Southern white rhino, touch an African penguin or Aldabra giant tortoise and snap the perfect photo with an adorable koala.

PANTHERS AND OTTERS AND BEARS, OH MY! Take a stroll down the shaded boardwalk in the Florida Realm—home to more native Florida species than any other Zoo. You’ll find playful river otters splashing and swimming, rescued Florida Panthers like Walter who sustained a partial amputation due to a car strike, snoozing Florida Black bears, skunks, Sandhill cranes, flamingos, owls and more!

Icee from Boomers right next door.)

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Visit ZooTampa.org for more info. *Some restrictions apply.

Images from ZooTampa

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SPLASHDOWN ON ROARING SPRINGS PRESENTED BY PINCH A PENNY. The whole family can hop aboard a boat and travel along the crystal-clear water to a chilling, thrilling and refreshing 3-story plunge into crystal clear water on this new wild ride! Not so adventurous? Guests can watch the fun and get soaked by the splash on Lookout Landing.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THE FLORIDA AQUARIUM

701 Channelside Drive, Tampa, 33602 813-273-4000; flaquarium.org Discover the wonders of the ocean among our exhibits, soak up the sun at The Splash Pad outdoor water fun zone, take in a flick in the 4-D theater and so much more. Come experience why The Florida Aquarium is a USA TODAY, Working Mother Magazine and Parents Magazine top aquarium in North America.

GAMETIME

1600 E. 8th Ave., Tampa, 33605 813-241-9675; gametimeplayers.com/locations/tampa GameTime in Ybor City is the best place to dine, play and party this summer with fun indoor amusements, a delicious menu and great birthday party packages. Play over 100 interactive arcade games, prize machines and mini bowling. Daily and weekly promotions are available; contact us today to learn more!

GLAZER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

110 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, 33602 813-443-3861; glazermuseum.org Imagine and discover this summer at GCM! At Summer Camp Imagination, little learners will have a blast during imaginatively themed camps like Pets & Vets, Dinosaurs and more. Tinker, build and create in GCM's Summer Maker space on Level 3 featuring visiting artists and special guests. This leads up to the first annual Tampa Mini Maker Faire on July 27, a family-friendly showcase of invention, creativity and resourcefulness!

LASER OPS EXTREME GAMING ARCADE

6283 W. Waters Ave., Tampa, 33634 813-443-6509; laserops.com Laser Ops is a new 24,000-square-foot entertainment center in Tampa featuring a game arcade with more than 50 games, virtual reality gaming, tactical laser tag, archery tag and Bazooka Ball.

The venue also features a large sports bar and grill, including a full liquor bar. Laser Ops is great for friends and family fun.

LATITUDES TOURS

580 Bahia Beach Blvd., Ruskin, 33570 813-641-1311; latitudestours.com Latitudes Tours offers guided eco-tours, perfect for kids and families. Our captain and naturalist are expert guides who will take you on an exploration of the Little Manatee River and nearby nature preserve. You'll encounter various local and migratory birds, dolphin pods, manatees, rays and more while hearing about the rich history of the area. Our 36-foot tour boat offers covered/ cushioned seating and onboard restroom. Optional meal and drink are available on each cruise.

Reservations required.

MEDIEVAL TIMES

4510 W. Vine St., Kissimmee, 34746 407-396-2900; medievaltimes.com Experience family fun in the 11th century at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament. Enjoy a 4-course feast in true medieval, pre-silverware fashion. In the midst of the performance, Dona Maria Isabella presents her stable of beautiful pure Spanish horses and prized falcon. Get ready to cheer your knight to victory!

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Family Fun at Medieval Times!

• Two-Hour Tournament • Four-Course Feast • Magnificent Horses • Authentic Sword Fights & Jousting • Air Conditioned Arena

Adults

38.95

$

*

Kids (12 & under)

30.95

$

*

Use Code: TBP19

*Must mention or enter code TBP19 at time of purchase. Discount is valid only off of full-priced admission rates. Not valid with other discounts, offers, or group rates. Upgrade packages, tax, gratuity, and applicable fees are additional. Restrictions may apply. Valid only at the Florida location thru 9/30/2019.

4510 W. Vine St., Kissimmee FL 34746 • 888-WE-JOUST | medievaltimes.com 42 TampaBayParenting.com JULY 2019

Our new queen is a sign of the times and we couldn’t be more excited to bring her to Florida.

MEDIEVAL TIMES DINNER AND TOURNAMENT Tickets for the dinner and show start as low as $36.95, making it an attractive alternative for families looking for an evening of fun, or even groups celebrating everything from birthdays to corporate events.

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament is ushering in a new royal ruler as the lead role in their wildly popular Central Florida production at the Orlando Castle. For the first time in the company’s 35-year tradition of having a king as the sole ruler of the land, a female character made history in the company’s newest show which debuted last year in the heart of Osceola County.

The matriarchal move came as a result of guest feedback on the roles that women played within the fantasy story-telling production. The new queen character is a firm, but kind, ruler who inherited the throne at the passing of her father, the previous king. The role has been unveiled across all nine locations, with a tenth coming to Arizona this summer.

“Our new queen is a sign of the times and we couldn’t be more excited to bring her to Florida,” said Doug Dorn, Medieval Times Orlando, Florida general manager. “The queen is fully in charge. Her authority is sometimes challenged, but she quickly asserts herself as a strong leader."

Medieval Times’ Orlando venue was the first castle to open in the United States and has entertained more than 20 million guests since 1983. The iconic Central Florida castle performs more than 600 shows per year. That’s a lot of chicken!

From epic battles of steel and swordplay, to royal falconry and horsemanship – the royal courts offer memories to last for generations. Additionally, an elaborate four-course meal fit for royalty (including vegetarian options as well as kosher, gluten-free and vegan), and the wide variety of libations and spirits, make for a festive evening of food and fun.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

MOSI

4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa, 33617 813-987-6000; mosi.org This summer, experience One Small Step the Exhibition at MOSI! One Small Step invites visitors to celebrate the excitement and pioneering spirit of the Apollo 11 moon landing as a “giant leap” for humankind’s continued exploration of our solar system and beyond, featuring historical artifacts and hands-on space activities.

PLANTATION ON CRYSTAL RIVER

9301 W. Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, 34429 877-377-9925; plantationoncrystalriver.com Plantation on Crystal River is surrounded by the natural springs of Kings Bay. On site, the Plantation features a full-service family-oriented dive and tour marina. Guests have the unique opportunity to swim with the manatees (the only place you can in North America), rent a pontoon or boat or relax by the riverfront pool.

RUMFISH BEACH RESORT BY TRADEWINDS

6000 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach, 33706 877-257-3716; justletgo.com/summer Dive into an aquatic adventure on St. Pete Beach this summer! Explore the shore at RumFish Beach Resort, then dig into some fresh seafood and craft cocktails at RumFish Grill. You can even end your day in the sweetest way with a family trip to our fire pit for nightly s’mores.

TOP GOLF

10690 Palm River Road, Tampa, 33619 813-298-1811; topgolf.com/kidzone Topgolf’s Summer Academy is five days of non-stop entertainment and learning that kids will love. From chipping, putting and full swing as well as rules and etiquette, this program will teach kids everything they need to know to improve their game.

TREASURE ISLAND FUN CENTER

7770 Seminole Blvd., Seminole, 33772 727-391-9105; tifuncenter.com Treasure Island Fun Center has something for everyone: ticket games and a huge prize selection, head-to-head racing games, pinball, pool tables, R/C trucks and kiddie rides for the littlest pirates.

There's fresh, hot pizza made to order and ice cream treats for dessert. Purchase a pizza and play package and get a large pizza, drinks and 90 minutes of unlimited video game play - just $45 for a family of 4.

WESTFIELD CITRUS PARK

8021 Citrus Park Town Drive, Tampa, 33625 813-926-4644; westfield.com/citruspark Experience the great indoors this summer as Westfield Citrus Park launches Camp Westfield, an interactive series of family events, educational experiences and movie nights set within an enchanting indoor campsite. Camp Westfield will begin on June 7 and run through June 28. To learn more, visit: westfield.com/citruspark

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

WYNDHAM GRAND CLEARWATER BEACH

100 Coronado Drive, Clearwater Beach, 33767 727-281-9500; wyndhamgrandclearwater.com For a one-of-a-kind experience, stay in one of our exclusive Winter the Dolphin or Mavis the Sea Turtle bunk rooms and immerse yourself in sea life with our Winter & Friends Package where you’ll tour the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and learn more about Winter and Mavis’ journey that has inspired us all.

YMCA

Multiple Locations tampaymca.org/letscamp Y Summer Camp is led by a team of trustworthy activity specialists committed to creating a safe place for kids to practice social skills and character values. The Y’s values-based curriculum helps campers develop self-reliance, a love for the outdoors and leadership skills — all amidst the fun of swimming, sports, crafts and meaningful relationships.

ZOOTAMPA AT LOWRY PARK

1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa, 33604 813-935-8552; zootampa.org Adventure awaits at ZooTampa this summer! Families can get nose-to-horn with an endangered rhino, take an up-close photo with an adorable koala, watch manatees receive life-saving care, feel the rush of macaws soaring overhead, get soaked in fun splash pads, and feel the roar of a three-story splashdown on the family water adventure, Roaring Springs.

SUNDAY SUMMER PLAY SERIES JULY 14 • 1PM–3PM AUGUST 11 • 1PM–3PM SEPTEMBER 15 • 1PM–3PM For details, visit: westfield.com/brandon

@WestfieldBrandon

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Summer Camps tivities c A ly d n ie r F y il Fam s Birthday Partie Kid’s Night Out

730 S. Village Circle, Tampa, Fl 33606 813-258-8368 Tampa.ColorMeMine.com

JUL 6-7

FERGUSON HALL PROFESSIONALLY PRODUCED STUDENT PERFORMED

PATEL CONSERVATORY

STRAZ CENTER

813.229.STAR (7827) patelconservatory.org

Group Sales (10+ get a discount): 813.222.1016 or 1047 *Handling fees will apply. Events, days, dates, times, performers and prices are subject to change without notice.

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GLOBAL studies

Taking a longboat to the Bornean jungle.

RETIRED TODDLERS EXPERIENCE SCHOOL ABROAD

Story and pictures by Michelle Schomp, Retired Toddlers

e didn’t plan to put our kids in school in Mexico. To be honest, when they were born, I assumed central Mexico was too dangerous to bring children. In many regions, that certainly still holds true. But it holds true in parts of America, too.

In 2018 we decided to travel to a small lakeside town south of Guadalajara where we found a school that would allow our kids to pop in for six weeks. It was a small private school filled with local kids whom we hoped would share a positive cultural experience with our kids.

At the end of that short stint, we all decided that we loved the school and the community so much that we had to return to it the following year, but for twice as long! This would provide the kids with immersive language interactions and the opportunity to build friendships.

On the first day of school, Henley (then 5 years old) and Jagger (then 3) waved goodbye and headed into class as if they had been going there for years. They have learned to adapt quickly to new surroundings from all of our travels, but their willingness to return to this new place away from us each day surprised us.

They only spoke a few words of Spanish going in and clearly stood out as foreigners. They weren’t bothered by it, though, and part of the cultural experience we wanted them to have was to understand how it feels to look and speak differently than those around you.

It wasn’t always easy for them. Early in the year, Henley came home from school really sad because she didn’t understand what was going on in class at times.

Within two weeks, that all changed as she became comfortable with the routine, felt more confident to participate in class, and really began to connect with classmates.

After four months of attending Mexican school taught 80% in Spanish, our kids are nowhere near fluent, but they do have a solid bilingual foundation. They pronounce classmates’ names like locals. They speak more in phrases than in continuous sentences and they never fail to correct my awkward pronunciations. They may not be fluent, but they are learning a lifelong skill to communicate and connect with people that may not look or sound like them. At the end of the day, what more could we ask for?

W

Henley and Jagger spend time at a local family's home learning to make tamales THE KIDS ANSWERED A COUPLE OF QUESTIONS ABOUT ATTENDING A SCHOOL IN MEXICO.

WHAT IS THE HARDEST THING ABOUT GOING TO SCHOOL IN A DIFFERENT COUNTRY? HENLEY “To meet new friends.”

JAGGER “That sometimes it’s hard for me to

understand.”

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2

WHAT IS THE MOST FUN THING ABOUT GOING TO SCHOOL IN A DIFFERENT COUNTRY? HENLEY “Learning different languages. That way I can talk more to my friends here.”

JAGGER “I get to make new friends.”

Follow the Retired Toddlers on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube @retiredtoddlers

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1 Community kids' activities 2 Mexico Dia de Estrella for Jagger where we went to read to his class and talk about airplanes 3 Walking the streets of our village.

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COULD IT BE HUNTER SYNDROME? A rare combination of common childhood complaints could indicate Hunter syndrome (MPS II ), a progressive, genetic disease.1,2,3

¿PODRÍA SER EL SÍNDROME DE HUNTER? Una rara combinación de quejas comunes de la infancia podría indicar el síndrome de Hunter (MPS II ), una enfermedad genética, progresiva.1,2,3

Talk to your doctor, or learn more at:

Hable con su médico, o conozca más en:

hunterpatients.com

hunterpatients.com/es Recurrent Ear Infections2

Infecciones recurrentes en los oídos2

Abdominal Hernia2

Hernia abdominal2

Enlarged Tonsils/ Adenoids2

Amígdalas/ adenoides agrandadas2

Joint Stiffness2

Rigidez en las articulaciones2

1. Burton K et al. Eur J Pediatr. 2012; 171 (1 ): 631-639 2. Wraith JE et al. Genet Med 2008; 10 (7 ): 508-516 3. Keilmann A et al. J Inherit Metab Dis 2012; 35 (2 ): 343-353 Copyright ©2019 Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Lexington, MA 02421. All rights reserved. 1-800-828-2088. TAKEDA and the TAKEDA logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited. S45710 04/19

Aiden, age 5

-

Lose up to 10 pounds the first week and up to 20 pounds the first month!†

FREE ASSESSMENT Brandon: 813.654.1110 Lutz: 813.909.1700 Tampa: 813.473.2973 MediWeightloss.com †On average, patients compliant with the Medi-Weightloss® Program lose 6.4 pounds the first week and 14 pounds the first month. Rapid weight loss may be associated with certain medical conditions and should only be considered by those who are medically appropriate. © 2019 Medi IP, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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Natalie, actual patient, lost 78 lbs.†

SouthTampaSpeechT herapy Grow.Learn.Develop.Play Speech, language and feeding therapy, personalized to your child, in the comfort of your home.

Bringing more than 10 years of pediatric expertise to South Tampa.

Chrissy Money M.S., CCC-SLP | Speech-Language Pathologist 813.434.3106 | chrissy@southtampaspeechtherapy.com | southtampaspeechtherapy.com

Having to be in a health care setting is often a stressful and frightening experience for children and families.

Recreation and play therapy give kids strategies for coping and bring a momentary escape from their illness. Donations to Christmas in July help dramatically alter a child’s hospital experience.

Here’s how you can make a difference: n Sponsor an extraordinary child experience

JULY 1-26 1–27 JULY

n Join our Office Challenge

18-405248-0518

n Drop off toys and donations at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital

StJosephsChristmas.org JULY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

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Quitting tobacco isn’t easy. Finding help should be.

Tobacco Free Florida offers free tools and services to help you get started.

USF Area Health Education Center is offering tobacco cessation groups at: Advent Health Tampa Brandon Regional Hospital Moffitt Cancer Center USF AHEC Program Office (USF Campus) Intervention Enterprises, Inc. Northside Behavioral Health Center Health Matters Pharmacy

Call to register

813-974-7889 Includes FREE Nicotine patches, gum or lozenges* More than DOUBLES your chances of success! *If medically appropriate and 18 years of age or older.

Program covers all forms of tobacco.

IT’S SO MUCH MORE THAN DANCE

QUIT YOUR WAY

This Summer at Mary Jo’s!

SUMMER CAMPS, CLASSES & MORE

 IT’S NOT TOO LATE!

DANCE ACT SING MUSIC

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Years of

Excellence

MJPAA.COM/SUMMER

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Mcilwain Dental Specialists Comprehensive Dental Care Under One Roof!

P eDiatric l aSer D entiStry

c oSMetic & a Dult D entiStry

c ertifieD By the a Merican B oarD of P eDiatric D entiStry

M ichael c hiaraMonte , DMD r eBecca w arnken , DDS

J aMeS e. M c i lwain , DDS, MSD l eigh a nn M c i lwain , DMD M ichael D. M c i lwain , DMD

o rthoDonticS M atthew S. a hrenS , DMD, MS a Merican B oarD of o rthoDonticS

M c il w a i nDentistry.co m 54

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GROWING TOGETHER

A NEW Pediatric ER for your family’s emergencies!

Tailored exclusively for young patients, the Pediatric Center at Brandon Regional Hospital provides advanced pediatric care for kids of all ages.

As your family grows, our Pediatric Center experts are here for you:

All NEW Pediatric ER with dedicated entrance and family areas Advanced Pediatric Inpatient and Intensive Care Units Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) NICU and Pediatric Surgical Care from All Children’s Specialty Physicians

For more information on the Pediatric Center, or to find a pediatric specialist for your child call (813) 653-1065.

JULY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

119 Oakfield Drive I Brandon, Florida

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Join WEDU PBS as we bring viewers the universe with the SUMMER OF SPACE! This multiplatform experience includes six new science and history programs commemorating the 50th anniversary of America’s historic journey into space.

The adventure begins with a six-hour “American Experience” documentary, Chasing the Moon from Robert Stone. The film tells the story of the space race, from its earliest beginnings to the monumental achievement of the first lunar landing in 1969 and airs July 8-10 at 9-11 PM. Other special presentations include: ANTIQUES ROADSHOW: OUT OF THIS WORLD NOVA: BACK TO THE MOON 8 DAYS: THE JOURNEY OF APOLLO 11 ANCIENT SKIES NOVA: THE PLANETS

July 8 at 8 PM July 10 at 8 PM July 17 at 9 PM July 24 at 8 PM July 24 at 9 PM

EDUCATORS! Make the SUMMER OF SPACE a SUMMER OF LEARNING with these great space-themed lesson collections from Florida PBS LearningMedia, a FREE digital education service aligned to Florida standards of education.

PBS Space Time – Explores space, astrophysics, and anything else you can think of beyond Planet Earth. (Grades 6-12) Bringing the Universe to America’s Classrooms – Resources for teaching Earth and Space Science, created in collaboration with NASA. (Grades K-12) The Sun, the Moon, and the Planets - Produced in partnership with the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. (Grades PreK-3) Living and Working in Space – Learn more about the International Space Station and the history and stories of human space exploration. (Grades 3-12)

Find these collections and much more at florida.pbslearningmedia.org 56

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get out and enjoy

celebrate the U.S.A.

FAMILY FRIENDLY EVENTS YOU CAN'T MISS IN

JULY

FOR MORE AREA INDEPENDENCE DAY EVENTS CHECK OUT TAMPABAYPARENTING.COM

THE LIGHTNING THIEF: THE PERCY JACKSON MUSICAL July 9-14, Times Vary Percy Jackson, son of Poseidon, discovers he has new powers and sets off to find Zeus’s lighting bolt to stop an upcoming war between the gods, all while monsters chase him. Based on the best-selling Disney-Hyperion novel by Rick Riordan, it’s sure to be electrifying! Tickets are available online at strazcenter.org.

SUMMER STEM CLUB Through July 30, 2:30-3:30 p.m.

Recommended for ages 5 and up, the Summer Stem Program at John F. Germany public library is sure to keep your kids' minds sharp while they learn cool science, like how to make a robot from household items and creating slime that can be turned into a sun catcher. hcplc.evanced.info/signup SUMMER NIGHTS Through Aug. 11 Every night during summer, enjoy Summer Nights at Busch Gardens. Experience their new roller-coaster, Tigris, by night, and celebrate summer in Stanleyville and Cheetah Hunt Plaza with themed dance parties. Fireworks at 9:30 p.m.

Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. buschgardens.com SUMMER CLASSICS MOVIE SERIES Through Aug. 25, Sundays at 3 p.m.

Every Sunday from June 2 to Aug. 25, Tampa Theatre will show classic movies ranging from silent shorts to modern classics. It’s the perfect way to expose your kids to the rich history of film making! tampatheatre.org

REPTILE MEET ‘N GREET WITH REPTILE DISCOVERY July 1, 3 p.m.

Meet Bruce Shwedick from Reptile Discovery at the Glazer Children’s Museum as he brings in some reptile creatures for kids to get a close-up look.

Animals will include tortoises, chameleons, snakes and more! glazermuseum.org COOKING WITH SALTBLOCK July 3, Noon to 12:45 p.m.

Learn how to make Fruit Pizza Pie this month in a 45-minute demonstration from SaltBlock at the Glazer Children’s Museum. It’ll be a tasty time! glazermuseum.org WORLDWIDE WEDNESDAY: FRANCE July 3-31, Wednesdays, Noon This month’s Worldwide Wednesday country is France!

Head to the Glazer Children’s Museum to learn all about this European country with projects, story time and other fun activities! glazermuseum.org BOOM BY THE BAY July 4 Mayor Jane Castor announced not just one, but FOUR fireworks displays along Tampa's waterfront. Fireworks displays will go off at Sparkman Wharf, the Tampa Convention Center, Riverfront Park and Armature Works. tampagov.net

HUGH JACKMAN WORLD TOUR July 5, 7 p.m.

Academy Award-nominated, Golden Globe and Tony-winning actor and singer Hugh Jackman will be participating in his first world tour.

Watch Jackman “come alive” as he performs songs from The Greatest Showman, Les Miserables and more at Amalie Arena! amaliearena.com ZIPPER ZAPPER KIDZ SEWING July 6, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Learn to sew in this beginner’s workshop at Seminole Heights Branch Library. Kids will learn how to use a sewing machine, cutting instruments and thread. Register online with free admission. Supplies are included. hcplc.org

METROCON July 11-14 Metrocon is Florida’s largest anime convention. The event will feature stage-shows, vendors, celebrity panelists and interactive events, including the Human Chess Match. Event will be located at the Tampa Convention Center. tampagov.net GROWN UP NIGHT July 12, 5:30- 8 p.m.

Who says kids get to have all the fun? Be an adult, but act like a kid, during Grown Up Night at the Glazer Children’s Museum! Tickets will be $20 presale and $25 at the door.

Admission includes playtime, snacks and beer by Florida Avenue Brewing. glazermuseum.org A VERY MERRY FROZEN CHRISTMAS IN JULY! July 13, 9:30- 11 a.m.

Sky Zone Clearwater is having a Frozen-themed Christmas Party in July! Tickets are $14 per child and adults are free.

You won’t want to miss this cool event. skyzone.com

PATEL CONSERVATORY PRESENTS NEWSIES July 6-7, Times vary The Patel Conservatory presents “Newsies,” a musical based on the 1992 Disney film. The play is set in New York City and follows Jack Kelly, a newsboy, as he rallies his fellow newsboys to fight unfair working conditions. Students aged 13 through college will perform in this high-energy musical. strazcenter.org

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SPLASH’S TREASURE HUNT July 13, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Highland Family Aquatic Center in Largo is hosting a treasure hunt with hidden treasures all around for children to find! Children will be divided into age groups. Tickets are $6 per person for members or $9 for non-members. playlargo.com DOWNTOWN BLOCK PARTY July 13, 5- 10 p.m.

Free admission for this family-friendly block party on Cleveland Street in Clearwater where you’ll find live entertainment, food, games, lots of children’s activities and more! myclearwater.com SHARKCON July 13-14 SharkCon is the Comic Con for Sharks! There will be different shark-related activities including games, trivia, slides, touch-tank and more! There will be speakers from National Geographic and Animal Planet, as well as some of the cast from SpongeBob Squarepants.

Located at the Florida State Fairgrounds. floridastatefair.com THE LITTLE MERMAID July 14, 3 p.m.

Enjoy a viewing of the Disney classic The Little Mermaid on the big screen at the Bilheimer Capitol Theatre. Tickets are available at 727-791-7400 or at the Bilheimer Capitol Theatre box office. rutheckerdhall.com MESSY MONDAY July 15, 3:30- 4:40 p.m.

At this month’s Messy Monday at the John F. Germany public library, kids will make their own rockets out of film canisters and blast them off. hcplc.evanced.info/signup GLOBAL ROCKET LAUNCH July 16, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Head to MOSI to participate in the Global Rocket Launch, an international event celebrating the 50th anniversary of the launch of Apollo 11. Guests can take part in launching high-pressure rockets as part of this world-record celebration of human space exploration. mosi.org MOMMY & ME ART July 17, 10:30- 11:30 a.m.

Get creative with your child at John F. Germany Public Library. Kids ages 2-5 and their caregiver can participate in this event. Kids handprints will be used to make a keepsake.

Register now before the class fills up! hcplc.evanced.info/signup

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PATEL CONSERVATORY PRESENTS ANNIE, JR. July 18-28, Times Vary Children age 8-14 will perform in what is sure to be an adorable junior version of the award-winning musical “Annie.” Join Annie as she leaves an orphanage to live with a billionaire and foils the evil plots of Miss Hannigan, the woman who runs the orphanage. strazcenter.org GIANT LEAPS: PAST AND FUTURE July 19, 1 p.m.

Guests to MOSI can watch the NASA broadcast of “Giant Leaps: Past and Future – Celebrating Apollo 50th as We Go Forward to the Moon” featuring a live broadcast of NASA experts and learning experiences from NASA sites.

You can also enjoy hands-on space science and engineering activities and shows in the One Small Step exhibition. mosi.org MINI GARDEN MAKE IT AND TAKE IT Jul 20, 10- 11:30 a.m.

Kids aged 6-12 can join this workshop to create a mini garden. They can let their imagination run wild and create a garden with plants, rivers and figurines of animals or dinosaurs. The class is $5 to reserve a seat. There are only 15 seats available, so sign up soon. sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu.

50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE MOON LANDING July 20, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Celebrate the 50th anniversary of humankind’s first steps on the Moon with an exciting array of STEAM activities including rocket building and launching in the MOSI Science Park, space origami, space rover challenges, and meteoroid challenges. The day will also feature special guest presentations (NASA is scheduled to have staff on site), space-themed shows and popup demonstrations. Don’t miss the rebroadcast of the original Moon landing as seen by millions on television. mosi.org SNOOPY IN SPACE WITH NASA! July 20 The Glazer Children's Museum celebrates the Apollo anniversary with special events. Engineer a lunar rover, experience space in the motion-capture SMALLab, sample space, enjoy story time and make your own planet bracelet. glazermuseum.org CHRISTMAS IN JULY July 26, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Help children in need at St. Joe’s Hospital for Christmas in July. Bring your donation and help Santa and his elves as they collect toys. There will also be presentations, treats and lots of smiles from the kids at St. Joe’s. give2stjoeskids.org

STORYBOOK WALK July 26, 10:30- 11:30 a.m.

Enjoy an interactive storytime for preschool to 1st-grade kids at Seminole Community Library. Kids will go on a walk where every stop will have a reading-related activity.

After the walk, there will be a themed craft and snack. Register at eventbrite.com FAMILY FUN 5K AND POOL PARTY July 27, 8- 10 a.m.

Go for a run and cool down after with the Family Fun 5K and Pool Party! Tickets are available online for $10 per person or $20 for a family of four and will include the race, a t-shirt, after-race snacks, and all-day admission to the Hillsborough Family Aquatic Center! playlargo.com TAMPA MINI MAKER FAIRE July 27, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Hosted at the Glazer Children’s Museum, Maker Faire is a family-friendly event to let engineers, scientists and artists show off their hobbies, projects and experiments. It’ll be a great way to talk to people and learn about invention and creativity. tampamakerfaire.org CRYSTAL RIVER SCALLOP FESTIVAL July 27-28, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Enjoy some delicious seafood at Kings Bay Park in Crystal River. Entrance is only $5 and free for those under 12. There will be bouncy houses, pony rides, contests with money prizes, scavenger hunts, food trucks, live music and more. bestfloridafest.com

SPECIAL NEEDS EVENTS SENSORY SENSITIVE SUNDAYS July 7, 9-11 a.m.

Stop by your local Chuck E. Cheese two hours before regular operating hours for a morning of sensory-friendly fun in a safe environment with reduced lighting and noise, food, games and fun for everyone. Trained staff members will be on site. chuckecheese.com SENSORY-FRIENDLY SATURDAYS July 16 and 20, 9-10 a.m.

Children with sensory needs are invited to come out to Altitude Trampoline Park in Tampa and jump in a safe, sensory-friendly environment with low music and no crowded parties. One accompanying parent to a sensory-friendly child jumps for free. All others can jump for a lowered cost of $11.95 per person. altitudetampa.com SUNSHINE SUNDAY July 28, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The last Sunday of every month, Glazer Children’s Museum hosts a special morning with lowered sensory activities.

This Sunday is geared towards children with special needs and their caregivers. Explore the museum with reduced light and sound. Admission is $5; free for GCM members. glazermuseum.org

PAW PATROL July 27-28, Times Vary Join Chase, Marshal, Skye and the other members of Patrol in their quest to find Mayor Goodway when he goes missing from Adventure Bay. It’s sure to be full of action as these heroic dogs try to save the day! Live at the Straz Center. strazcenter.org

SPECIAL EVENTS celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Apollo Moon landing

CHECK OUT THE FULL LIST OF EVENTS AT TAMPABAYPARENTING.COM

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W H AT ' S TR EN D I N G O N LI N E

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GET A RESORT PASS THIS SUMMER You can visit

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SUMMER FUN GUIDE

TAKE AN ANNA MARIA ISLAND DAY TRIP

Swim with a manatee at Plantation on Crystal River

hotels/resorts for a day and enjoy all that they have to offer without Tradewinds Resort

paying some of the outrageous prices that come with staying the night!

ROAD TRIP WITH TODDLERS Weekend Getaway Tips check out these carefully crafted strategies to ensure maximum comfort and minimum potential of those TTs (toddler tantrums).

Check out fun ways to explore and play in Tampa Bay

SU M M E R DAYS G E T T H E M OS T O U T O F YO U R B R E A K STAY-AT-HOME DATE NIGHT IDEAS Whether these ideas are right up your alley or you just use them as inspiration, think outside the box and look around your home for

INSTA LOVE TPA ALL ACCESS PASS for a family date night on the Airside. Reserve your pass at tampaairport.com

inspiration when the weather is not ideal to go out!

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TRAINS AT LARGO CENTRAL PARK Take a ride on mini locomotives the first weekend of the month.

@ tampabayparenting

MOON JELLIES Grand opening of the new Moon Bay jellies touch tank at the Florida Aquarium.

@TBParenting

12th annual BACK TO SCHOOL FAIR inside the mall! ‘s

• Get your school shopping done during the Sales-Tax Holiday Weekend.

vEnt! E R o o d n I E FRE

• First 500 kids receive a Free Backpack Sponsored by the Tampa Bay Bucaneers!

• Characters, Face Painters, Entertainment, Giveaways and More!

BacktoSchoolFair.com

Saturday, August 3, 2019 - 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

WestShore Plaza Presented by:

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320 W. Kennedy, Ste. 220 Tampa, FL 33606

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