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“Emma had a quick recovery with no complications.” ~ Jamie J., mom of Emma, a St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital cardiac patient
At 4 weeks old, Emma was diagnosed with a heart defect commonly known as a hole in the heart. She couldn’t eat very well and had digestive problems. At 7 months old, her heart defect was repaired by Dr. Stephen Langley, chief of pediatric and congenital cardiac surgery. “We knew right away that Dr. Langley was the surgeon we wanted. He was very warm and kind and we felt comfortable with him,” said Emma’s mom, Jamie. “Emma had a very quick recovery with no complications. We are so thankful for St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, Dr. Langley and the entire staff.”
Find the right doctor for your child: (866) 603-6161
St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital is a leading center for the diagnosis and treatment of heart conditions in prenatals through adulthood. Our expert physicians and nurses care for your child in a hospital designed exclusively for kids, in the heart of Tampa Bay.
Watch Emma’s full story:
3001 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. | Tampa
BC1600311-0216
Contents
14
10
344
48
features 40|toxic home
10|summer camp guide
Harmful homes causing health risks in kids
Find the best camps for your kids
46|march on
14|camp secrets
The best products for spring break
7 teachable moments from summer camp
48|extraordinary woman
30|gut check
Molly Demeulenaere
Keeping digestive health in check
34|social anxiety
on the cover
How closely social media is linked
every month 06|Letter From The Editor 10|summer camp guide
Photograph by Jeanine McLeod of Cloud 9 Studios For this month’s cover, Cover Kid Winner Lilly F. explored
Pg. 46
the new Dinosaurs in Motion
March on! The best products
exhibit at MOSI. Lilly got a
for spring break and beyond.
chance to animate a T-rex, fly
30|health and wellness 44|what's happening 50|south Hillsborough News
a pterodactyl, and explore all the exciting exhibits that the museum has to offer!
52|north Hillsborough News
For
54|south pinellas News
Dinosaurs in Motion, visit
56|north pinellas News
www.MOSI.org.
58|pasco News
more
information
can
also have a chance to check out
the
amazing
exhibits
60|around town
at our 9th annual Summer
62|calendar of events
Splash Summer Camp Fair on
66|directory
April 9 at MOSI. Visit www. summersplashtampabay.com for more details.
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You
on
TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
When you believe in a greater purpose to health care, you see things differently. Because health care isn’t only about illness and injury, or even medicine. It’s about the human spirit. Which is why for over a century, Florida Hospital has gone beyond symptoms and treatments, helping people live healthier, happier lives. This is more than quality, expertise and compassion.
Discover the Florida Hospital difference at InspiredTampaBay.com
Florida Hospital
|
Centra Care Urgent Care
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Locations Throughout Tampa Bay Florida Hospital Physician Group
Founder & Editorial Director
Angela L. Ardolino Editorial Assistant
Krista Byrd Associate Editor
Anu Panchal Contributing Writers
Gayla Grace Lisa L. Thompson Jill Hechtman, MD Lindsay Perez Marie Massara Dr. William Lambos Jill Assalti Calendar & Neighborhood Stories Brady, Giana, Jaylin and me at MOSI, where the kids helped us build innovative designs for our Extraordinary Woman photoshoot.
Chris Kuhn Director of Sales
David E. Estevez account executives
Jen Assalti Ralf Gonzalez Melissa McClung sales assistant
Theresa Stanton public relations
Lesley Rowland Madison Irwin Maria Dones Contributing photographers
Jeanine McLeod Amy Pezzicara Social Moms
Lisa-Marie Leihy Rachel Long Ana Peralta Laurie Winkles 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
spring has sprung! Spring is finally here, which means we are one step closer to summer. When I look back on my childhood, I remember learning and growing in summer camp in a way that wasn’t possible during the school year. While your kids begin their summer countdown, this is the best time to choose the summer camp that is right for each of your children. This year, we have continued our tradition of compiling the very best summer camps and programs as part of our annual Summer Camp Guide, which starts on page 10. Make sure to pick up each month’s issue for up-to-date information on everything summer related. For even more camps and programs available this summer, visit www.TBParenting.com/SummerCamp. Kids may have to wait a while for those exciting camp opportunities that I got to have, but in the meantime, Marie Massara from Corbett Prep has shared some tips with us on how to create the teachable moments from camp right at home. You can read more about her tips on page 14. As we gear up for spring break, you might notice that kids are spending a lot more time on social media than they used to. However, did you know that all of that time on social media can actually lead to issues with anxiety? Dr. William Lambos from ABF Behavioral Health shares advice on how to help your kids with social media-related anxiety on page 34. During spring break, many Bay Area families make the choice to have a stay-cation. But, for some families, staying home is making them sick. On page 40, we spoke with the Kinler family who was living in a toxic home-- and their story is not uncommon. Find out what to do if your walls and floors are making your kids sick. This year, MOSI welcomed their new CEO, Molly Demeulenaere. I got to chat with this Extraordinary Woman and find out how she balances running one of the most exciting museums in Tampa with raising a family. Find out more about how she does it all on page 48. I hope that your family has an exciting spring break. Don’t forget to mark your calendars for this year’s Summer Splash Summer Camp Fair on April 9. MOSI will transform into a haven for families looking for everything summer related. Tickets are $5 and get you into the event and MOSI. To learn more, visit www. SummerSplashTampaBay.com. See you on April 9 at Summer Splash!
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Tampa Bay Parenting is published twelve times per year and distributed throughout the Tampa Bay community. Tampa Bay Parenting is not responsible for any errors, inaccuracies, omissions or incorrect information (or the consequences related thereto) contained within the magazine or online; readers should not rely on any information contained in the magazine and they should always consult with an appropriate professional for guidance. Tampa Bay Parenting accepts no responsibility for the consequences of error or for any loss or damage suffered by users of any of the information or materials provided by Tampa Bay Parenting. Some content published by Tampa Bay Parenting is sponsored or paid for advertising content, and some individuals quoted or cited in articles have paid for advertising or sponsorships; this content or opinions do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of Tampa Bay Parenting.
TAMPA BAY PARENTING • JUNE 2015 • TBParenting.com
Did You Know We’re Related?
All Children’s Specialty Physicians Are Now Caring For Brandon Regional Hospital Babies n Premature or special deliveries receive care from All Children’s Specialty Physicians in Brandon Regional’s Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and have immediate access to a full range of pediatric specialists n Neonatologists are at the hospital; 24 hours-a-day, 7 days-a-week n Dedicated obstetrical suite is always prepped and ready n Spacious private rooms (with private bathrooms) will make you and your family feel at home
For more information, please visit BrandonHospital.com
A lifetime of memories from just 5 days at summer camp. Every parent wants their child to have great, unforgettable experiences that truly enrich their lives. And the best way to provide those experiences is to enroll them in any one of Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo’s many unique, interactive summer camps. The 5-day camps offer adventurous, hands-on activities where kids will discover a whole lot of awesome, indoors and out. And if you’re a member, you’ll receive discounted admission on select camps.
Book online April 2-3 to
save 20% off select camp experiences.
LowryParkZoo.org/Camps
Guideto Summer Summer Camp Guide Camps Where has the time gone? It is almost summer already! Summer can be one of the most memorable times for your kids. Without the structure of school, kids are faced with more free time to explore and learn in a way that they just can’t during the school year. One of the best ways to help them spread their wings and explore is by finding a summer camp where they can make lasting memories. Looking for summer camps can be daunting, however, so we have compiled a list of the very best summer camps. Whether you are looking for a sleepaway camp or a camp closer to home, no matter what time frame you are looking for, you will find it all right here. After all, you never know just how your child’s camp experience will affect not only your child, but your whole family.
hillsborough Academy of the Holy Names Summer on Bayshore 3319 Bayshore Boulevard, Tampa 813-839-5371; holynamestpa.org Fun-loving kids ages 3 and up may choose from themed day camps, technology, sports, enrichment and review, or arts studio camps at the Academy of the Holy Names’ everpopular Summer on Bayshore! From Legos to lacrosse and cooking to cartooning, Summer on Bayshore has something for everyone. Full and half-day weekly sessions run from June 6 - July 29. AquaCamps 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa 813-273-4015; www.flaquarium.org Get NAUI open water certified during this scuba camp for ages 12-15. Ages 10-14 may participate in travel camps, enjoying snorkeling, kayaking, fishing and tubing around Tampa Bay. On-location camps for ages 6-9 include science experiments, field trips and the opportunity to see live animals. AquaTots and AquaKids programs for ages 3-6 include crafts, games and live animals. Register online! Berkeley Summer Programs 4811 Kelly Road, Tampa 813-885-1673; www.berkeleyprep.org/summer 3D Game Design, Mod Design, Equestrian, Archery, Fine Arts, Rock and Roll Camp, Lego, Basketball, Football, Swimming, Golf, Rock Climbing, Lacrosse, Soccer, Softball, Chess, Driver’s Ed, Financial Literacy for Teenagers, and so much more – there’s something for everyone at Berkeley Summer Programs! Pre-K to Grade 12. Register online. Over 100 camps and classes, including high school credit courses. Before and After Care. Bulls Soccer Camps 4202 E. Fowler Avenue, University of South Florida, Tampa
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
www.bullssoccercamps.com Bulls Soccer Camps at the University of South Florida is one of the premier soccer camps for female players in the entire Southeast Region. Camps are offered for beginners up to advanced elite players for ages 4-18. Busch Gardens Camps 3000 E. Busch Boulevard, Tampa 877-BGT-CAMPS; www.buschgardens.com/camps Camps include resident camps that marry the best of the park’s offerings into multiday, sleep-away programs for students in grades five through college. Day camps are weeklong and provide campers in kindergarten through eighth grade with hands-on, educational experiences with animals and the outdoors, as well as Counselor-In-Training programs for grades 9-12. Camp Bayshore 3909 S. MacDill Avenue, Tampa 813-839-4297, Ext. 344; www.bayshorechristianschool.org This day camp for 3-year-olds to rising sixth graders is a fun, safe, Christian camp full of field trips, swimming, sports, the arts, music, shows, and various activities. Go online to see photos from last summer’s adventures, to find this summer’s calendars, and to download forms to register. Camp Connect at Glazer Children’s Museum 110 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa 813-443-3861; www.glazermuseum.org/camps/summer The Glazer Children’s Museum’s Camp Connect is where you’ll want to spend your summer break. Cruise around the Bay, inspire amazing works of art, and learn about the land down under at one of the top summer camps as voted by Tampa Metro YMCA. Weekly camps are Monday-Friday for ages 5-9. Camp themes include science explorations, arts & crafts, character development, play time throughout the museum, and more!
SUMMER PATEL CONSERVATORY STRAZ CENTER CLASSES & CAMPS
2016
Musical theater camps • Dance intensives • Group piano Private music lessons • Adult dance • On-camera acting Fully produced musicals • Dance classes • Improv Chamber/Jazz/Choral Intensives • Rock School and MUCH MORE!
THEATER AND MUSIC AUDITIONS FEB 27 • MAR 31 • MAY 19
DANCE • THEATER • MUSIC SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE! patelconservatory.org • 813.222.1002
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Camp IDS 12015 Orange Grove Drive, Tampa 813-961-3087; www.corbettprep.com Campers can try their hand at archery or broadcasting in the morning and dabble in painting or French cooking in the afternoon. More than 60 half- and full-day camps ensure everyone has a great time. Academic camps include math, science, reading, writing and technology. Chinese, French and Spanish language camps available. Free morning dropoff at 7:15 a.m. After care (3-6 p.m.) and bus transportation are available for a fee. Camp Seal 19501 Holly Lane, Lutz 813-229-7946; www.sealswimschool.com Seal Swim School now provides a fantastic aquatic camp program for children 4-10. Each camp week will center on a theme where your child will enjoy a variety of activities such as swim lessons, recreational swim, outdoor sports, indoor games, archery, arts and crafts, field trips and much, much more. Camp Terrapin 727 W. Cass Street, Tampa 813-251-8481; www.tampaprep.org Academic and enrichment courses cater to the student who wants to strengthen existing skill sets or advance to another level. A coeducational, sports and fine arts curriculum provides structured activities for students entering first through eighth grades. Robotics courses from basic building skills to programming available. Carrollwood Cultural Center Summer Arts Camp 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa 813-922-8167; www.carrollwoodcenter.org Artistic expression, belting it out, busting a move and getting into character are all encouraged! Through art, music, dance and drama, campers ages 4-12 will explore a different theme each week — all in a creative and safe environment. Color Me Mine 1609 W. Snow Circle,Tampa 813-258-8368; www.tampa.colormemine.com Everyone’s favorite pottery studio is now offering summer day camps for a wide range of ages. Kids will explore pottery, painting, glazing and more.
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
Elite Animation Academy Tampa 9634 W. Linebaugh Avenue, Tampa 813-321-3939; www.eliteanimationacademy.com Weekly camps founded by former Disney animators start June 6 - Aug. 12 teaching traditional and digital animation for ages 8-17. Learn animation, anime/manga, character
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camp secrets Seven teachable moments from summer camp By Marie Massara
p
aintings and sculptures. Gourmet cooking. 3-D Printing. New languages. Take a look at a child’s summer camp schedule, and you’re bound to feel a little jealous.
Fun and educational, camp programs engage students in learning in creative ways — a benefit when it’s time to go back to school. Research shows that students can forget up to two months of academic instruction during summer vacation, but camps’ enriching experiences help reduce this summer learning loss, according to the American Camp Association. Luckily, there’s no shortage of entertaining and educational options at summer camps. And as parents, you can learn from camp, too. Get in on the fun with your child and try these camp-inspired activities at home. Here are seven ideas from popular camps at CAMP IDS:
Bring a book to life
house. Could an unloved piece of furniture get new life with paint? Using leftover paint from various projects, kids can transform trash to treasure.
Become a Bollywood star
Kids in Bollywood dance camp love learning these high energy dances with a cultural flair. Introduce it at home with instructional DVDs or YouTube videos and use it as a springboard to learn about Bollywood movies, Indian culture and music.
Turn a snack into science
This yummy experiment is a favorite at Junior Astronomy for teaching about the sun’s energy. You can turn a pizza box into a solar oven. Line the box with aluminum foil and tape a piece of black construction paper to the bottom of the box. Some instructions include cutting a flap out of the lid and covering it with plastic wrap. Assemble a s’more with chocolate, marshmallow and graham cracker and put in the box, propping open the lid with a pencil or wooden skewer. Use Florida’s ample sun to heat your oven! Tip: Put the marshmallow under the chocolate, because the chocolate will melt first and cover the marshmallow nicely.
Active students may resist sitting down with a book when there’s so much else to do. A hands-on project tied into the book can boost their interest and reading comprehension. Preschool children and early readers in “Living Literature camp” enjoy the Dr. Seuss book “Bartholomew and the Oobleck,” which has a great science tie in the gooey “oobleck” that fell from the sky. Families can make their own goo, which functions like a liquid and a solid, by slowly adding 1.5 to 2 parts cornstarch to 1 part water. Feel free to mix in food coloring to make it green!
Say “bonjour” to a new language
Make dinner
The maker movement is booming among adults and kids, so why not set up your own creative space at home? Maker Spaces promote creative thinking and problem solving and can include crafts, science, technology — or whatever else you want to explore. Find a nook at home and stock it with supplies such as masking tape, hot glue guns and scissors. Your materials will depend on your child’s age and interests but can include recyclables, buttons, parts of old toys, popsicle sticks, ribbons, feathers, rubber bands and paper clips. Head online together for inspiration for different types of projects. Follow instructions or encourage your child to innovate on her own!
Find art in your environment
Whether you are looking for projects for a weekend, spring break or an entire summer, these teachable moments from summer camp will provide plenty of opportunities for discovery that both adults and children will enjoy.
Teaching kids to cook gives you extra hands in the kitchen, but there are science and math benefits as well. Kids are learning about measurements and the chemistry of certain ingredients. Ask older children to adjust the serving size and calculate amounts accordingly for a dose of mathematics. Of course, the best part comes when it’s time to eat the finished product.
A craft project doesn’t need to start at the craft store. Art teacher Jill Campisciano challenges her art campers to raid their recycling bins for paper towel rolls, cereal boxes, water bottles and more and use them to build a sculpture, like a robot or house. Or cast a critical eye around the
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
Children are sponges when it comes to learning world languages. Make it a fun summer activity that integrates with their interests. Foodies may enjoy trying to cook crepes and quiches while learning French. Already have a basic vocabulary? Try a foreign film or television show or visiting a restaurant and ordering in the native language. If you are bilingual, share your knowledge by working with your child on an activity, once in English and a second time in another language.
Create a Maker Space
Marie Massara is a co-director of CAMP IDS, which offers more than 60 full- and half-day camp choices on the lakeside campus of Corbett Preparatory School of IDS in North Tampa.
Where everyone has a great time! 7 Weeks of Options: June 13 – July 29, 2016 60+ full- and half- day camps Ages PreK3-high school Before- and after-care
Located on Corbett Prep's beautiful campus in North Tampa! Outdoor
Field Trips
S.T.E.M.
Performing & Visual Arts
Academic
World Languages
Athletics
And So Much More!
Sign up today!
(813) 961-3087 CampIDS@corbettprep.com 12015 Orange Grove Drive, Tampa, FL www.corbettprep.com
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design, draw Disney characters and Marvel super heroes, Photoshop, 2D/3D animation and much more. Camps are 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. with a one-hour break for lunch. All supplies are provided. Register online; cost is $300 per weekly camp. Florida Academy of the Performing Arts 402 Oakfield Drive, Brandon 813-490-2787; www.faopa.org Florida Academy of the Performing Arts camp offers acting, crafts, games, singing, drums, musical theatre, beginner guitar, beginner violin, fun activities and more. This camp is for kids ages 5 and up and offer your child the opportunity to learn and grow their talent. First Baptist Church of Tampa- Free Vacation Bible School 302 W. Kennedy Boulevard, Tampa 813-251-2425; www.fbctampa.org Batten down the hatches and prepare to be Submerged! Each day kids will explore what lies below the surface in the deep sea by creating crafts, playing fun games, enjoying tasty snacks, singing cool songs, and learning about missions. Kids will discover that Jesus saw people for who they were deep down, not who they appeared to be on the surface. VBS will run from June 20-24, from 8:45 a.m.-12:00 p.m. for children ages 3 through fifth grade. History Adventure Camps at the Tampa Bay History Center 801 Old Water Street, Tampa 813-228-0097; www.tampabayhistorycenter.org Explore Tampa’s historic neighborhoods via streetcar, go behind the scenes of a real museum archive, or excavate artifacts from thousands of years ago! The Tampa Bay History Center’s History Adventure Camps allow kids to dig, craft, and build their way through the past! History Adventure Camps are open to ages 7-11, and include field trips, outdoor activities, splash park fun, and interactions with historians and other experts. Pre-registration required. $220/week, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. iD Tech Camps 4202 E. Fowler Avenue, University of South Florida, Tampa 888-709-8324; www.iDTech.com This summer, encourage the awesome in your child! At iD Tech Camps, students ages 7-17 can learn to code, design video games, mod Minecraft, engineer robots, model 3D characters, build websites, print 3D models and more! Tech-savvy instructors teach curriculum in small groups of just eight students per instructor—guaranteed—so both beginners and advanced students can learn at the perfect pace. Campers make new friends, learn foundational STEM skills, and enjoy long-term benefits. Kids’ College Summer Camps at HCC 39 Columbia Drive, Tampa www.tampatraining.com/kids-college Tampa Bay’s best youth & teen camps! Not just another play camp, Kids’ College at Hillsborough Community College offers fun with a purpose through a wide variety of educational topics and interests. Programs are offered at nine HCC locations throughout the county for grades 1-10. Camp topics including video game design, fashion, architecture, performing arts, police & fire, athletics, STEM, dance and many more. TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
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Kids’ Stuff Preschool and Kindergarten 21360 Lake Floyd Drive, Lutz 813-949-2237; www.kidsstufftlc.com Kids’ Stuff is FUNdamental! Currently enrolling for summer camp and the 2016–2017 school year. Look for exciting summer fun for ages 12 months–12 years. Kids’ Stuff Summer Camp travels off-site for ages 4 and 5, and schoolage kids take themed field trips. School year offers preschool, VPK and private kindergarten with a focus on the development of the whole child in a family-style setting. Mary Jo’s Performing Arts Summer Camps 15906 Mapledale Boulevard, Tampa 813-969-0240; www.mjpaa.com/summer Experience a summer of fun and excitement in the performing arts! Keep active all summer in dance, acting, musical theater, voice and music for ages 2 1/2 and older. The weekly themes include Frozen Fun, Fairy & Fantasy, Be a Rock Star, Princess & Pirates, Broadway & More! Take the stage this summer and perform in a wide variety of styles and venues. Register online now! McCormicks Cablepark 2020 McCormick Lakes Way, Seffner 813-681-4441; www.Skimccormick.com This summer camp at the cable park is for all levels. With premium equipment and conditions, camp counsellors will provide a fun, safe, encouraging environment for your child to progress inside their comfort zone during a memorable summer! Space is limited so sign up soon. Montessori Academies and Preparatory school Tampa, Temple Terrace, and New Tampa 813-899-2345; www.montessoriacademies.com Montessori’s summer curriculum includes math, language, science, social studies, Chinese, Spanish and more! MOSI Science Summer Camps 4801 E. Fowler Avenue, Tampa 813-987-6000; www.campfun.org MOSI Summer Science Camp brings science, technology, engineering, art, and math (S.T.E.A.M.) alive through handson experiments and projects. Launch rockets, design video games, create art with lasers, use DNA to solve crimes or discover your passion in S.T.E.A.M Career camps in the medical, culinary and marine biology fields. Real science coupled with exciting experiments, simulations, explorations and inventions will inspire the innovator within. Pre-K- high school and registration is online.
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Ms Lisa’s Dance 3805 W. San Miguel Street, Tampa 813-253-5472; www.mslisasdancestudio.com Ms. Lisa’s Dance is offering summer and theatre camps for ages 3 to 12. Camps are from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and aftercare is available until 3:00 p.m. Each camp lasts five days offering fun and creative themes for your child to enjoy. Activities include art projects, performances, face painting, and dance and include a photographer to capture their adorable smiling faces. Come spend your summer at Ms. Lisa’s Dance where friendship and technique is developed. Musical Arts Piano Conservatory 2101 W. Kennedy Boulevard, Tampa 813-294-1348; www.musicalartspianoconservatory.com/ Piano musical camp for ages 7-12 and teens offers a half-day camp for complete beginners or those already having some keyboard experience. Includes all the basics of developing musicianship in a group together utilizing our Yamaha Piano Keyboards and our acoustic pianos. Includes a daily 30-minute private lesson plus supervised practice and fun group activities to develop music reading and writing, developing the musical ear, playing together in ensembles and learning songs. Camp ends with a performance for the families! Early care and aftercare is available. Patel Conservatory 1010 N. MacInnes Place, Tampa 813-222-1002; www.patelconservatory.org Offering more than 70 camps and classes in all areas of dance, theater and music for all ages and experience levels for ages 3 through college. This camp will give your child the confidence and creativity that they love and that will last a lifetime. Summer Learn to Sail 2016 at Davis Island Yacht Club 1315 Severn Avenue Tampa 813-501-7245; www.diyc.org/youth-sailing The Davis Island Youth Sailing Foundation (DIYSF) is pleased to offer summer sailing instruction for both DIYC members and non-members. Our goal is to promote the sport of sailing for the benefit of the children of the Tampa Bay area in an environment which stresses safety, good sportsmanship, honesty, loyalty, courage, respect for authority and respect for the community. Dates range from June 13-Aug. 5 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday. Tampa Music School 3310 S. Westshore Boulevard, Tampa 813-837-9245; www.tampamusicschool.com Explore a variety of Rock Band and Caribbean instruments through our dynamic music summer camp experience. Campers ages 8-13 will be a part of a steel pan band, and star in their very own music video. They will enjoy playing the guitar, keyboard, drum set and steel pans. Register online and save $15 before March 31. Tampa Theatre 711 N. Franklin Street, Tampa 813-274-8286; www.tampatheatre.org Each summer, Tampa Theatre’s historic auditorium lights up with young filmmakers working together to produce their
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
visions on-screen. Campers entering grades three through 12 work in small groups to learn the creative process of live and stop-motion animation filmmaking, from storyboarding and scriptwriting to filming and editing. All necessary equipment is provided so that by the end of the weeklong session, each production team will have a 3-5 minute movie to debut on the big screen. Vosler Young Artists’ Studio 1906 N. Armenia Avenue, Tampa 813-417-5867; www.vosleryoungartistsstudio.com In an Atelier environment held in the beautiful north-light studio, students will study and draw from life with a master instructor. As students master core concepts and show understanding through their drawings, they will be given more complex concepts to master and will draw a variety of pictures in charcoal throughout the week culminating in a session with a live model on Friday afternoon. Students receive a certificate at the conclusion of the workshop. Supplies Included. US College Soccer ID Camps 4202 E. Fowler Avenue, University of South Florida, Tampa www.uscollegesocceridcamps.com Each summer US College Soccer ID Camps provides an awesome opportunity for a soccer player with a desire to play collegiate soccer. Over 50 top U.S. College Soccer Programs from all divisions participate every year. Each player will be issued a pinnie with an ID Number that they will wear at each session. US College Soccer ID Camps offers camps for players entering grades eight through 12 grade in Tampa, Florida, Texas and Arizona! Zoo Camp at Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo 1101 W. Sligh Avene, Tampa 813-935-8552, Ext. 268; www.lowryparkzoo.com Zoo School is headquarters for more than 100 weeklong camps for students in kindergarten through eighth grade. Kids and teens can learn about nature, science and the animal kingdom while hiking through the zoo, exploring behind-the-scenes and cooling off in the water play areas. Adventure camps include animal encounters, keeper talks, educational shows, games and crafts.
Choose from a variety of Summer AquaCamps that take fun and learning to all new depths for kids from 3 to 18 years old. Spots are filling up fast, so enroll today. There are discounts for members and for booking multiple camps. For more details, visit flaquarium.org or call 813-273-4015.
flaquarium.org | 813.273.4000
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June 13-August 5 | Full Day Camps starting at $135/week At the Y, we make kids feel welcome and supported in their developmental journeys. This summer, we invite you to enroll your kids in YMCA Summer Camps for days full of educational adventures, exciting exploration and new, lifelong friends!
Get ready for the BEST. SUMMER. EVER! Camp schedule: 9am-4pm Extended care: 7am-9am and 4pm-6pm at no additional cost
Visit www.tampaymca.org for detailed information.
Spaces are filling up fast! Save your spot.
ENROLL TODAY! REGISTER
ONLINE TODAY! tampaymca.org
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TAMPA METROPOLITAN AREA YMCA | 813 224 9622 | tampaymca.org
TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
2 0 1 6 2016 SUMMER PLANNING GUIDE WEEK
1 June 13-17
2 June 20-24
3
June 27-July 1
4 July 5-8
5 July 11-15
6 July 18-22
7 July 25-29
8 August 1-5
CAMP
BRANCH
NOTES
Day Camp
New Tampa Y
Fun, themed week
Boots n Saddles
Camp Cristina
Bus pick up from New Tampa Y
Vacation at Grandma’s!!!!!!!!! Gymnastics
Youth & Family
Center
Home of Top Flight team
Science Camp
South Tampa Y
Fun and educational
Field Trips Galore
Northwest Hills. Y
Field trips everyday!
Dance Camp
North Brandon Y
added Extended Camp
Sports Camp
Campo Family Y
Mix of all sports
Family Summer Plans
FIND THESE CAMPS AND MORE AT THE Y. Visit tampaymca.org for more information. WE’LL PICK YOU UP!
Transportation to YMCA Camp Cristina is available from the following locations: Campo, North Brandon, New Tampa, and South Tampa!
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June 13 - August 12
Monday-Friday • 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Extended Care Available
• • • • • •
Swim Lessons Recreational Swim Archery Field Trips Arts & Crafts Sports
50/day $185/week
$
Admiral Farragut Academy Summer Day Camps & Boarding Program 501 Park Street N., St. Petersburg 727-384-5500, Ext. 230; www.farragut.org/summer Camps are open to the public, include a hot lunch, and are held on our campus with a private pool and waterfront! The day camps include STEM, Little Captains, Sports, Bricks 4 Kidz and more for rising PreK-eigth graders. The boarding program is for rising eighth-12th graders and is a two-, four-, or six-week college prep boarding experience where attendees can earn a high school credit in math, biology or history, or take electives like scuba, aviation and engineering.
s 7 week Pay for nt and o up fr e the receiv
ek 8th We ! E E FR
SealSwimSchool.com
pINELLAS
(813) 229-7946
19501 Holly Lane, Lutz 33548
American Stage Summer Camp & Teen Summer Institute 163 Third Street N., St. Petersburg 727-823-1600 ext 204; americanstage.org/youth-education Choose from 1-3 week sessions for grades K-12. Experience quality theatre training in a positive environment, giving young people the tools to be fearless, focused and flexible on stage and in life. Studying theatre not only helps students become accomplished and confident performers, it also empowers creative, intellectual and emotional growth. All experience levels welcome! Staff is comprised of working theatre professionals with a passion for teaching. Clearwater Marine Aquarium’s Summer with Winter & Hope Camp 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater 727-441-1790, ext. 262; www.seewinter.com Get your camper ready to have fun in the sun as they embark on their own coastal learning experience with our all new camp selections. Enjoy our half-day or full-day week-long camps featuring Winter and her rescued dolphin, river otter and sea turtle friends! Camp options feature snorkeling in sea grass beds and sand flats, kayaking through local estuaries, meeting our rescued residents, SCUBA, and discovering fascinating marine creatures in their natural habitat.
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The Club at Treasure Island Summer Camp/ Camp TI 400 Treasure Island Causeway, Treasure Island 727-367-4511; www.theclubti.com Open to kids ages 6-12, this one-of-a-kind summer camp engages children in activities that become fundamental building blocks for their future. Kids can enjoy sailing, tennis, culinary classes, swimming and so much more. Camp TI is open to members and non-members. Become a member of Club TI and receive exclusive rates on summer camp. TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
at the tampa bay history center u il d y ou r w a y b d n a , t f a r c D ig , ’s p a s t a t t h e a p m a T h g ou r th r! H is t or y C e n t e e: C a m p s in c lu d st Speaker Field trip & Gue r’s Tour Museum Inside ark Cotanchobee P mory Book Take-Home Me
Let’s Play! Ju * A g e s 7 - 1 1 ne 13-17 American G irl June 20-24 Pirates & Ex plorers July 5 -8 Archaeolog y Mysteries Ju ly 11-15 Build it! July 2 5-29 Art Infusion August 1-5 Register online at TampaBayHistoryCenter.org
&F Fun
ri
hip! ends
Hands - on
Learning!
813.675.8987 801 Old Water St. Tampa, FL 33602
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www.eliteanimationacademy.com 9634 West Linebaugh Avenue Tampa, Fl 33626, 2nd Floor (813) 321-3939
Summer Camps starting June 6th - August 12th!
Dunedin Fine Art Center 1143 Michigan Boulevard, Dunedin 727-298-3322; www.dfac.org/tbp DFAC’s Summer Art Academy’s seven separate ageappropriate camps offer fun, creative, cognitive summer enrichment experiences for kids and teens from 4-1/2 to 16 years old. Activities include drawing painting, sculpture, photography, clay and digital arts as well as Arts in Motion curriculum. This year, individually themed weeks include Shark Week, Artful Olympics, Intergalactic Railway and Cinco de July-o. Eckerd College Watersports Camp 4200 54th Avenue S., St. Petersburg 727-864-8288; www.eckerd.edu/waterfront/camp One of the largest collegiate programs in the United States offers instruction in exploring watersports, sailing, wakeboarding, windsurfing, kayaking, saltwater fishing, and exploring marine life for students of various ages at various levels. The school provides the perfect environment for learning watersports. The Waterfront Program is in its 44th year, and over those years has introduced thousands of children and adults to the wonderful world of watersports. Feather Sound Country Club Summer Camp 2201 Feather Sound Drive, Clearwater 727-202-4051; 727-572-6677; www.fscc.club The FSCC Golf and Tennis Camps will focus on solid fundamentals. Golf includes: stance, grip, posture, alignment, and swing including the short game and the full swing. Tennis includes: grips, position, stroke development, footwork, match play and competition. Both programs want to offer kids the opportunity to learn under fully certified golf and tennis professionals, and have a fun and positive experience here at Feather Sound Country Club. Largo Cultural Center 105 Central Park Drive, Largo 727-587-6751; www.largoarts.com Camps are for kids of all ages and include productions of Legally Blonde the Musical, Disney’s Peter Pan Jr. and Technical Theatre Production. Campers will learn skills from acting and auditioning to working with scenery, rigging, audio, and lighting equipment. They will apply their new skills in the shows. Prices vary; scholarships are available.
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
Montessori by the Sea “Explore the Shore” 1603 Gulf Way, St. Pete Beach 727-360-7621; www.montessori-by-sea.org Come “explore the shore” with Montessori by the Sea! Each week includes beach play, beach exploration, arts and crafts, cooking and exposure to the Montessori learning environment. This camp is for children ages 3-6, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Enroll for one week or all six. Space is limited.
Fun-loving kids ages 3 and up may choose from themed day camps, technology, sports, enrichment and review and arts studio camps at the Academy of the Holy Names’ ever-popular Summer on Bayshore! Weekly sessions run from June 6 - July 29. Complete session information and online registration available at www.holynamestpa.org.
ACADEMY OF THE HOLY NAMES 3319 Bayshore Blvd. | Tampa, FL 33629
holynamestpa.org
813.839.5371
Academy of the Holy Names - Tampa
@holynamestpa
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Inspiring a sense of wonder and learning for 30 years
Montessori students: • Develop a lifelong love of learning • Discover concepts for themselves 1603 Gulf Way • Develop self-discipline & motivation St. Pete Beach • Learn at their own pace www.montessori-by-sea.org
727-360-7621
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SPACE IS LIMITED CALL NOW! TO RESERV E A SPACE.
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Morean Arts Center Summer Camp 727-822-7872; www.moreanartscenter.org/ Unique camp offerings for children 4-15 years old including our brand new pre-school half-day camp. All campers will enjoy a week of art-filled experiences using selected weekly themes, including stories, songs and games. Teen offerings include glass, animation, jewelry, photography, clay and more. All campers will work on take home projects, collaborative pieces and community art projects. Palm Harbor Montessori Academy 2355 Nebraska Avenue, Palm Harbor 727-786-1854; www.palmharbormontessori.com Full-day themed camp sessions for ages 3-12 featuring outside play and swimming! Outdoor environments include state-of-the-art pool facilities, soccer field, basketball court, hydroponics garden, and four spacious and secured playgrounds for fun, learning and meeting new friends. Camp themes include music, drama, Spanish, exploring the world, America the beautiful and more. Saint Paul’s School 1600 St. Paul’s Drive, Clearwater 727-533-4539; www.st.pauls.edu/summercamp With the variety of camps, making fun, long-lasting memories won’t be hard. The school offers field trips, recreation and activities, fine arts, marine science, Camp Invention, Grand Slam Baseball and classic day camps. Camps are for children in PreK-3 – eighth grade. Hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Before and after care is available. Summer at Shorecrest 5101 First Street N.E., St. Petersburg 727-522-2111; www.shorecrest.org/summer From an adventure-themed day camp for preschoolers to sixth-grade academic enrichment, all the way to a professional theatre bootcamp for serious thespians, there’s something for everyone this summer at Shorecrest. An auxiliary program of Shorecrest Preparatory School, Summer at Shorecrest offers nearly 100 different camp sessions, serving students from 3 years to those rising into grade 12. Programs run May 31-Aug. 12.
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Soul Adventures Summer Camps 129 N. Belcher Road, Clearwater 727-797-1186; www.souladventures.us Soul Adventures is an adventure summer camp for 10-14year-olds. Each day will be a different adventure for campers. Adventure days will include kayaking, sailing, fishing, paddle boarding, paint ball, snorkeling, rope courses, Frisbee golf and archery (just to name a few). Five to 9-year-olds can check out the Junior Adventure Camp. TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
BEST TIME EVER! Friendship, Accomplishment, Belonging Register your child for a variety of YMCA of the Suncoast summer camps and have the best summer ever! Go online ymcasuncoast.org/summercamp summer camp ad half page.indd 1
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SPCA Tampa Bay Summer Camp 9099 130th Ave. N, Largo, FL 33773 Each SPCA Tampa Bay Summer Animal Camp offers a unique mix of hands-on learning experiences, animal related education activities, crafts, guest speakers, games and plenty of fun for boys and girls 5-15! And best of all, campers give love and attention to our shelter animals, and make new two-legged and four-legged friends along the way!
DANCE MUSIC SING ACT “I Love Summer at Mary Jo’s Performing Arts Academy!” Register today at MJPAA.com/summer
SUMMER 2016 Camps, Classes, Workshops, and More 15906 Mapledale Blvd., Tampa, FL 33624 | 813.969.0240
MJPAA.COM/summer
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
Strykerz KidFit 2685 Ulmerton Road Suite 210, Clearwater 727-573-8589; www.StrykerzKidFit.com Strykerz Summer Camp program is designed to be a wellbalanced and structured learning environment. It features traditional martial arts led by passionate and experienced instructors. We provide children with nourishment to balance the body while learning fun and effective techniques and exercises that build confidence, respect and healthy physical bodies. Each week campers have the opportunity to also participate in an extracurricular theme and activities. Summer at Delphi Clearwater 1831 Drew Street, Clearwater 727-447-6385; www.delphifl.org Summer at Delphi offers themed weeks, exciting field trips, overnight adventures and so much more! Hands-on workshops, daily activities including dance, cooking, arts & crafts, volleyball, pottery, music – this summer is non-stop fun from 8:30 a.m to 5:30 p.m., June 20-July 29. Celebrating 33 Years! Ages 4-17. Tampa Bay Turners Gymnastics and Swimming Academy 2301 26th Street N., St. Petersburg 727-328-8500; www.tampabayturners.com Kids can participate in gymnastics and tumbling classes, swim lessons starting at six months in our indoor pool, birthday parties, summer day camps and toddler tumbling open play, all in a Licensed Preschool. Come join the fun! Tampa Bay Watch Estuary EDventures Camp 3000 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde 727-867-8166, ext. 224; www.tampabaywatch.org/summercamps Do your children have an interest in marine science? Do they love going to the beach and finding animals? If so, this is their chance to learn more about it! Send them to Tampa Bay Watch this summer for some fun in the sun with our marine ecology summer camps where they will learn about amazing Tampa Bay, the ocean and its inhabitants.
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Adventure Camp 10 - 14 year olds
be the
SAME! Summer is coming, and Jr. Adventure Camp is the place to be. Join us for a summer of crazy games, fun field trips, awesome crafts and our annual food fight! Our weekly camps offer a fun and exciting alternative for summer. Energetic camp counselors will keep your child active during our fun-filled weeks. Campers will experience 3-4 off-campus activities each week. While on campus, campers will participate in activities such as rock climbing, bounce houses, sports, water games, crafts, and much, much more! Join us for a summer adventure! Soul Adventures is located at 129 North Belcher Rd, Clearwater.
Let the adventure begin
“Mom, I’m bored. There’s nothing to do.” If you’ve ever heard your child say that, then we have an adventure for you! “Bored” is never heard at Soul Adventures, a summer camp for 10-14 year-olds. Imagine these experiences: • Kayaking • Rope courses • Paint balling • Paddle boarding • Sailing • Archery • Fishing • Beach olympics • Snorkeling • Mountain biking Combine these exploits with a powerful daily devotion time, and you have the recipe for an adventure that might just last a lifetime.
www.souladventures.us
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gut check Keeping digestive health in check By Anu Varma Panchal
s
ometimes, the best clues to your health might not be the most polite of subjects. A hundred euphemisms exist to discuss gas, bloating and bowel movements, but—especially with March being colorectal cancer awareness month—it is all the more important to pay attention to what the lower end of your torso is up to. “Even though people don’t like to look at their poop, it’s important for people to be stool gazers,” says Dr. Donna Powell, a gastroenterologist with BayCare Medical Group. She isn’t joking. The state of your bowels are an excellent indication of many health issues that could be occurring in your body. Here are a few typical symptoms that you may be experiencing that Powell cautions could indicate bigger problems.
“The most important thing is paying attention to your bowel habits,” Dr. Powell says. “Typically, if you’re going three days without a bowel movement or your stools are hard requiring straining, it’s considered constipation.”
One culprit? Irritable Bowel Syndrome. IBS is common in people with high stress lifestyles, and is often linked with anxiety, depression and even abuse. In addition to bloating, which can occur not just after a meal but throughout the day, IBS sufferers often complain of abdominal pain or alternating bouts of constipation and diarrhea.
Habits are important, Powell says. If you’re a person who has his morning coffee and immediately afterwards heads to the bathroom—and then one day there’s a change, it’s important to pay attention to that change. Anytime there’s straining, if stools are either harder or watery, or if there are more than usual, this could be a sign of something serious. One potential culprit: colorectal cancer. A common indicator for this disease is a sudden change in the shape of stools. If they are shaped like a pencil, this could be a sign of narrowing or a stricture in the colon or rectum, Powell says. Especially if this is combined with rectal bleeding, it could indicate an obstruction as a result of cancer, colitis or the presence of a large polyp.
However, bloating can indicate problems other than IBS, Powell says. Gallbladder disease is one such problem: chronic inflammation of the gallbladder or biliary dyskinesia, in which the gallbladder is malfunctioning. Gastroparesis—or delayed emptying of the stomach—can also cause bloating, as can bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine. While a regular and comprehensive workup is required to pinpoint the culprit, Powell says some relief can be obtained through home remedies such as peppermint oils or the avoidance of gas-producing foods such as cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage and beans.
Acid Reflux/Heartburn
Fecal Incontinence
Constipation
Powell describes this as a burning sensation up the middle of the chest, often accompanied by a sour, metallic taste. This occurs when the sphincter between the esophagus and the stomach relaxes when it shouldn’t, allowing the acid to go up in the wrong direction. Other symptoms include pain at the top of the abdomen where it meets the chest; a chronic cough or cough after eating; waking in the middle of the night with a burning sensation or choking; clearing of the throat several times a day; and hoarseness that can be caused by inflammation of the vocal cords. “Go and seek medical attention” if any of these symptoms have been recurring for a few days, Powell advises. Heartburn (or GERD as it is sometimes referred to), can be alleviated by lifestyle modifications. Doctors will usually suggest avoiding consuming caffeine, chocolate, tomato or red sauces, citrus, peppermint and spicy food. Adds Powell: “Elevate the head of your bed and wait two to three hours after eating to lie down.”
Bloating
The vague and unpleasant symptom of “bloating” is one that many patients often come to Powell complaining of, especially women. The problem with bloating as a symptom is that it can indicate so many things.
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
“People are pretty distraught when they have this,” Powell admits. Fecal incontinence can be very unpleasant to manage, and is more common in women, especially those who have had multiple children or episiotomies. It’s caused by a pelvic floor dysfunction, when the muscles of the pelvic floor do not contract as they should to propel a normal bowel movement. Ironically, this condition can be caused by underlying constipation, when a backup of fecal matter can overflow and leak out of the rectum. Treatment for pelvic floor dysfunction is biofeedback therapy. If the cause is overflow incontinence, Powell says she puts her patients on a bowel regimen that includes Metamucil or Benefiber to help bulk up the stool.
Nausea and Vomiting
These common symptoms can indicate a plethora of underlying issues, ranging from acid reflux, esophagitis, gastritis, gallbladder problems, ulcers and gastroparesis, says Powell. As more Americans become obese—Powell says 60 percent is the latest count—such problems only continue to grow. People with
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abdominal obesity have a higher chance of suffering from GERD or acid reflux. Up to 20 percent of those suffering from fatty liver disease, which is caused by fat deposits in the liver, go on to develop cirrhosis of the liver. Obese people are also at a higher risk of developing GI cancer.
Prevention
The lack of fiber in a typical American diet is another culprit to finger for a variety of conditions, including diverticulosis, which is caused by pockets forming in the colon and can lead to inflammation, pain and bleeding. Other than eating healthy and exercising, Powell recommends that everyone take a daily probiotic and/or fiber supplement. Cardiac exercise four to five times a week also helps to keep the bowels regular. “Anyone who is 50 should be having an initial colonoscopy, unless they are African American, in which case they should start at 45,” she says. If you have someone in your family who has been diagnosed with colorectal cancer, then you should have that initial colonoscopy at an age 10 years prior to when that relative was diagnosed. Remember to: • Add more raw foods to your diet. • Cut out (or at least cut down) on processed foods. • Cut out (or at least cut down) on cooked foods. • Chew your food properly so they thoroughly mix with the enzymes in your saliva. • Drink alkalinized water--but not with your meals as it dilutes your digestive juices.
Natural Assistance Digestive Advantage Daily Probiotic Is a probiotics supplement that targets your specific digestive health needs, helps lessen minor abdominal discomfort, bloating and occasional diarrhea and with continued use, and supports your long term digestive health. It contains BC30, a natural probiotic that survives 10 times better than yogurt to deliver good bacteria where you need them. Digestive Enzymes Every bite of food you eat requires a certain enzyme to digest that particular type of food in such a way that the nutrients can be absorbed by the body. AIM’s PrepZymes ™ contain digestive enzymes for every type of food that we eat.
Neuner’s Organic Baby Stomach Ease Tea This tea is a traditional mixture of organic herbs known for its pleasant and calming effect to baby stomachs. For 125 years, mothers have trusted Neuner’s herbal tea to help calm an upset stomach. This tea may help to relieve colic and wind. Aniseed, fennel, chamomile, caraway have been used throughout the world for colic for generations.Thyme is antiseptic and helpful with colic but is also beneficial for coughs and colds. Natural Calm Plus Calcium Original Athletes put their bodies under intense stress. Strenuous exercising and sweating (due to exertion and high temperatures) can cause the body to lose magnesium. Many athletes are deficient in both calcium and magnesium.
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
pasco Academy at the Lakes 2331 Collier Parkway, Land O’Lakes 813-948-7600; www.academyatthelakes.org Campers ages 3-14 can choose from many activities, including sports, arts, recreation, science, technology and academic review. Discovery Point 5415 Post Oak Boulevard, Wesley Chapel 27830 Summergate Boulevard, Wesley Chapel 813-907-8892; 813-994-2700; www.discoverypointenroll. com/summercamp Discovery Point child development centers offer a variety of summer camps for ages 5 through 12. In addition to themed weeks, children participate in field trips, arts and crafts and more. Camps are 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. La Petite Academy 6829 FL-54, New Port Richey 866-561-3413; www.lapetite.com Calling All Kids Ages 5-12: Get Ready For A Not So Bummer Summer! Sign Up Now for Summer Camp at La Petite Academy! Psssst! Hey, kid! Yes, you! How are you going to get the most fun out of summer? La Petite Academy’s got you covered! Join us for our Not So Bummer Summer to experience up to nine completely different summer camps-- with great field trips! Each week we’ll feature a fun-filled theme, from outdoor adventure to cooking to drama and much more. There’s plenty of fun for younger kids, too! New Port Richey Summer Aquatic and Tennis Camps 6630 Van Buren St, New Port Richey 727-841-4560; www.fl-newportrichey.civicplus.com The Recreation and Aquatic Center is offering summer camp, aquatic camp, and tennis camp for kids ages 5 and up. Dates vary by camp. Each camp is designed to promote exercise and teach safety, along with responsibilities. Pasco County Summer Day Camps www.pascocountyfl.net The Pasco County Summer Day Camp program will run from June 20 – Aug. 5. Campers will experience fun activities including: games, sports, arts and crafts, field trips, movies, guest speakers, special events, and much more! Camp locations are available throughout Pasco County. Register online.
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social anxiety How closely are they linked By Dr. William Lambos
c
oncerns Over Social Media Link to Virginia Girl’s Killing:
“The arrest of two Virginia Tech students in the abduction and murder of a 13-year-old girl who posted on a Facebook group called Teen Dating and Flirting — and showed a neighbor girl texts she said she had exchanged with an 18-yearold man — has set off new concerns about the dangers to young people who seek liaisons on social media.” (New York Times, Feb. 2, 2016) Headlines like the one above are causing increasing concern in parents worried about the impact of social media on their children’s lives. While the case of the Virginia Tech students is an extreme one, are there other reasons, less spectacular but perhaps more pervasive, for parents to be concerned over their kids’ use of social media? Of this there can be little doubt. In my practice as a neuropsychologist, I have seen an explosive growth over the past 10 years in adolescent behavioral and neurocognitive disorders. Potentially traumatic bullying by peers has of course gone on for generations, but the growth and pervasiveness of social media as a primary means of engaging in social interactions has greatly increased the ease and frequency of negative social interactions. Additionally, over 1,000 studies in peer reviewed academic journals have shown that social media use by teens is associated with many forms of impaired functioning, especially with respect to attention deficits, and to anxiety disorders in particular. A simple Google search of “Social Media Relationship to Social Anxiety” reveals over 23 million hits. Many studies have found that when teens are more actively and/or emotionally invested in their digital lives, the sleep quality worsens, their self-esteem lowers, and their rate of anxiety and depression increase. This is seen when they are compared to peers who spent less
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time on social media sites like Twitter, Facebook, Tumblr, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube. The anxieties measured can range from a simple feeling of not keeping up with the “buzz” (something labeled FOMA, for Fear Of Missing Out), to diagnostically severe anxiety and depression, to full blown traumatization and PTSD symptoms. A secondary finding is that feeling the need to constantly check their smartphones for never-ending social media updates was related to decreased attention and poorer academic performance. Perhaps the most compelling evidence of the effects of social media on adolescent anxiety and related disorders comes from studies of functional brain imaging. So-called structural imaging methods such as MRIs and CT scans show static pictures of the brain’s structure at one moment in time. Functional imaging, on the other hand, captures brain activity over some time period and compares it to databases of hundreds or thousands of individuals. The databases include both “neurotypical” data from people who are healthy as well as “atypical” brain data from individuals with various mental health symptoms and conditions. Based on these comparisons, it has been demonstrated beyond question that what we think of as “mental” symptoms are in fact dysregulations in brain function. Perhaps most exciting, one method of functional brain imaging can be done using EEG signals on equipment that costs a tiny fraction of a $3 million fMRI machine, PET scanner or SPECT imaging device. At my clinics, we have been mapping brain function in our patients using brain waves measured at the scalp, and then subjecting the raw signals to advanced computerized analysis against a FDR-registered database. This technique, called qEEG brain mapping (“qEEG” stands for quantitative electroencephalography – quite a mouthful but a breakthrough technique nonetheless), has allowed us to show brain activity associated with many conditions, including social anxiety. Based on our intake interviews with teens and young adults, we too have seen a strong correlation between Internet use (including Internet addiction), time spent on social media, and mental health issues. There can be little doubt from our assessment of young people, comparing brain function to emotional dysregulations, that a preoccupation with social media can lead to marked social anxiety in many teens. So what to do about it? Common sense is the first step: parents should learn to limit the amount of time their teens spend on social media. Parent should also make sure they know the people their kids are networking for safety reasons. Finally, for young people whose social anxiety, inattention, or other problems related to the overuse of social media are causing significant problems, therapy should be considered. Standard treatments for social anxiety are based on counseling, including cognitive behavioral therapy, and assisting parents in how to be more helpful with their children’s issues. But the use of brain mapping also allows us to treat those afflicted by directly changing brain function. EEG biofeedback – also called neurofeedback – has enabled us to treat social media-related anxiety and related problems by training the networks of the
TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
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brain to resist the influence of social media. Very simply, our patients are hooked up to the same system that produces brain maps and uses those signals to reward the client for generating healthy brain activity instead of patterns associated with anxiety and other symptoms. Since each patient’s brain function is being analyzed in real time and constantly compared to the healthy norms for their age, the feedback protocol is constantly updated over the course of each training session to gently but consistently reinforce healthy brain function. Our results have been quite encouraging. We have been able to greatly reduce or eliminate the social anxiety associated with social media. Moreover, brain training makes other more traditional therapies more effective because one of the underlying causes of the problem has been addressed. If excess social media exposure changes the brain in unhealthy ways, it should be helpful to know that these effects can be reversed at the level of the brain. As with all technology advances, the good of the information age comes with adverse effects. Social media are here to stay, and most young people can learn to cope with it through sensible interventions. But for those who have become unable to do so, it’s good to know there are answers and help available. William A. Lambos, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist with ABF Behavioral Health. For more information, visit www. abfbehavioralhealth.com or call 813-235-4270.
ouT oF ArEA Circle F Dude Ranch Camp 5301 Dude Ranch Road, Lake Wales 863-676-4113; www.circlefduderanchcamp.com Nestled in 500 acres of wilderness, this traditional sleepaway camp for ages 6-16 offers two-week, three-week and 10-day sessions packed with exciting programs that focus on providing young people the opportunity to just be kids. Campers build lifelong friendships as they participate in horseback riding, archery, sports, photography, arts and more in a safe environment. Valley View Ranch Equestrian Camp 606 Valley View Ranch Road, Cloudland, GA 706-862-2231; www.valleyviewranch.com Horse lovers’ paradise since 1954, atop Lookout Mountain, for 50 girls, 8-17. 1 to 9 weeks, 600 acres, English, Western, Barrels, Vaulting, and Trails. CHA instructors teach beginner to advanced riders. Spend 4-6 hours daily with your OWN camp horse. The Jones family are third-generation horse lovers, camp administrators, and equine educators making girls dreams come true!
various locations Camp Invention 630-431-7754; www.campinvention.org This nationally acclaimed, weeklong summer enrichment day experience for children entering grades one through six is free to schools and organizations nationwide. The program’s top priority is to provide quality enrichment programming in the STEM fields (science, technology, engineering and math). Local schools host the program and the week’s hands-on activities are led by local teachers to ensure a safe learning environment. George Kiefer’s USF Soccer Camps University of South Florida, Tampa, FL & Lithia www.usfsoccercamps.com USF Soccer Camps at the University of South Florida is one of the premier soccer camps for male players in the entire Southeast Region. Camps are offered for beginners up to advanced elite players for ages 4-18.
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
Girl Scouts of West Central Florida Summer Camps www.gswcf.org With five summer camp locations, girl scouts will get to experience wilderness life at its best. Girls will make memories that will last them a lifetime and will stay in
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cabins at these sleep-away camps. They will also learn skills to help them to earn badges. Depending on the location, the girls will horseback ride, swim, and make arts and crafts. KinderCare Summer Camps www.kindercare.com/our-programs/summer-camp If your kids are looking to take the lazy days of summer and find something amazing and exciting in each and every one of them, then enroll now in all six of KinderCare’s summer break programs! Summer camp themes include animal antics, art expo, dig ancient Egypt, splash splash, wild wild west and wilderness 101. There is something for kids of all ages from pre-school to school-age. Kumon North America www.kumon.com Help your kids stay on academic track this summer, focusing on a variety of topics that include reading and math. Make gains for the next school year or tackle problem areas. Suncoast Y www.ymcasuncoast.org Count on the best summer ever for your kids. Select one week or the whole summer, indoors and out. On their own or in a group, from archery to arts to canoeing to cannonballs, your kids will have an amazing experience in a safe, inclusive, nurturing environment. Register online. Tampa Bay Skating Academy www.tbsa.com Have a cool time on the ice through camps for beginner and intermediate level skaters ages 6-12. Daily camp sessions include on- and office instruction, arts and crafts, catered lunch and supervised on-ice free time. There also are camps for experienced skaters, including a hockey camp in Oldsmar and a figure skating camp in Countryside. Tampa Y 813-224-9622; www.tampaymca.org Summer camps focus on nurturing the potential of children and helping them grow in spirit, mind and body. Fun and friendship are encouraged and young people build self-esteem, develop interpersonal skills and make lasting memories. Camps are offered at 10 locations and several program sites.
FOR MORE SUMMER CAMPS VISIT
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WWW.TBPARENTING.COM/SUMMERCAMP TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
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i
n 2006, Crystal Kinler and her family moved to Ruskin. Having survived Hurricane Katrina, she and her husband, Gerard, were ready to start fresh with their four children in the perfect family home. Kinler envisioned her new home as a place where her four children would giggle in pillow forts. Where her newborn baby would learn to walk and drool and play. Where her daughters would have sleepovers with their best friends and talk about the boys in their grade. Where her husband would come home from a long day teaching with a bouquet of flowers for her, just because. Instead, her home was where her family would become sick. The walls, hung with picture frames and snapshots, were made from toxic Chinese drywall that was causing chemicals to seep into everything and everyone inside. And the longer they stayed, the sicker they got. Now, Kinler has thyroid cancer, and she believes her home is what caused it. A Healthy Home A few months after moving into their brand new Ruskin home, Kinler noticed something wrong. “My son was having nosebleeds all the time. I also had an infant and she was very sick,” says Kinler. “Our newborn stayed sick and needed a nebulizer treatment about six times a day.” Around the same time, Kinler noticed her silverware and jewelry had begun turning black, and her appliances started breaking down. She began experiencing the common signs of toxic drywall homes: Electronics and the air handler stopped working several times and the air sometimes smelled foul. It all raised red flags, but, unwilling to rush to conclusions, Kinler thought maybe her family was just having a run of bad luck.
She took her children to doctors, and at one point her 6-month-old daughter was admitted to All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg. They tested her children for everything, and also questioned Kinler about her son’s constant major nosebleeds. Members of the family were tested for various illnesses throughout the three years that they lived in the home until a doctor finally discovered that it was their environment making them sick. A home inspection determined what they had begun to suspect: that that the drywall was in fact Chinese drywall—which meant that the walls of the Kinlers’ house were filled with toxic chemicals that only worsen over time. During the early to mid-2000’s, homes were being built with cheaper materials since new construction was in such high demand. However, the cheaper some of the materials were, the more toxic they became as the years passed. Not only was the drywall being used toxic, but many homes were also made with contaminated laminate flooring that contains toxic amounts of formaldehyde. Other common toxic materials used in home building include insulation that can release formaldehyde, carpeting made with artificial dyes or treatments as well as carpeting made with flame retardant and phthalates, and PVC products like vinyl flooring. Not only can the Chinese drywall cause health issues, but toxic materials like phthalates and formaldehyde can wreak major havoc on the endocrine system and has been linked to asthma, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, breast cancer, obesity, low IQ, neurodevelopmental issues, behavioral issues, autism spectrum disorders, and altered reproductive health. These same chemicals can be found in PVC products like piping and vinyl flooring in addition to carpet. Toxic homes are still being bought and sold
toxic home Harmful chemicals causing health risks in kids By Krista Byrd
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
every day, but owners are discovering too late that they cannot afford to replace all of the toxic materials. “Chinese drywall can release dangerous gasses that can be harmful to children and adults,” says Joseph Perno, M.D., from the division of emergency medicine and chief of staff at All Children’s Hospital Johns Hopkins Medicine. “The main problems tend to be respiratory and [are] similar to the effects of sulfur gasses.” Common complains of those exposed to Chinese drywall include: respiratory irritation (like chronic cough or wheezing), headaches, sinusitis, eye and throat irritation, and malaise or other weakness, according to Perno. He also warns that telling the difference between your child being sick from their environment or from regular germs can be difficult. “Healthy children who are in either daycare or school may get sick 10-12 times per year. However, if the child is having repeat infections such as pneumonia, sinusitis, and ear infections, there may be a household trigger,” says Perno. “Similarly, if the child is suffering from chronic (not seasonal) allergy symptoms they may be sensitive to household allergens and allergy testing may be warranted.” Home builders and government agencies, including the FDA and the CPSC, have not found reasons to believe that the effects will be lasting. “Because many consumers report that their symptoms lessen or go away when they are away from their home, but return upon re-entry, it appears that these are short-term symptoms related to something within the home,” says a spokesperson from the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). “The CPSC is confident that its extensive research and testing have been successful in defining the scope of the problem drywall issue.”
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However, Perno says that there haven’t been many tests done by the government to determine the long-term effects of living with Chinese drywall, and that the effects can cause bigger issues, saying: “Often we see repeated or chronic infections.” Kinler says she has experienced chronic issues in her children, her husband, and herself. “I truly believe that the Chinese drywall is what caused my cancer,” Kinler says. “I was healthy before. I always took good care of my body, and now after living in that home, I have thyroid cancer. I don’t want to worry if my kids will be sick when they are older. I don’t want to think about them getting cancer when they are in their thirties or forties,” says Kinler. “No mother wants to have to think about that, but now I do.” Nowhere to Turn When the Chinese drywall was discovered, Kinler was shocked. After trying seeking several avenues for help, including contacting their lender, their homeowners insurance and the home builder, the Kinlers realized that nobody would help them, so they had to make the decision to leave their home and all of their belongings. “If you’re going to have to make a choice between your home and your kids, you will always choose your kids,” Kinler says. “So we packed up and we walked. We lost everything that we invested in the house, every penny we put into it, and suddenly, we were homeless.” The Kinler family wasn’t able to bring many of their possessions because they had all become toxic. Her children’s beds, their family furniture, clothes and toys-- all were left behind. The toxins from the walls had seeped into all of their belongings so deeply that they would only become sicker if they brought them. In an unfortunate twist of fate, the next home they moved into was also made with Chinese drywall, which Kinler discovered after moving in, much like many renters and new homebuyers. Unlike homebuyers, renters don’t often have an inspector take a look at a new home, so thousands of renters have moved into the toxic homes that homeowners couldn’t (or wouldn’t) fix. Not only are homes with toxic drywall and floors being bought and sold still, but they are also being rented out to unknowing families. While there are guidelines for remediating homes set by the CPSC, they are not mandatory, and many contractors will do quick fixes— like removing drywall and repainting but not replacing the wires and the fixtures that were
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eroded by the walls, leaving toxic chemicals to lurk just below the surface. Once a family is locked into a lease or rental agreement, the financial burden of breaking the lease can cause even more stress. However, without a recall, it is nearly impossible to get the financial assistance needed to fix the homes that are made with toxic chemicals. “Neither the Chinese government, nor Chinese manufacturers, has been forthcoming about assistance with problem drywall and flooring,” says a spokesperson from the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). “CPSC cannot order a business to conduct a recall without a hearing.” If the home was built with toxic or dangerous flooring, there is little that a renter can do outside of replacing the flooring themselves with no garuntee of reimbursement. To help raise awareness, Kinler started an online petition with Change.org. Her goal is for all of the voices that have been affected by a toxic home to be heard. She is up to almost 100,000 signatures. What You Can Do One of the easiest ways to avoid having a toxic home is to make sure that your home is being built with the safest materials available if you are purchasing new construction. Finding a green building supplier is key in making sure that your flooring, drywall and insulation will not leak toxic chemicals over time. Ask about a builder’s designations, such as the National Association of Home Builders’ Certified Green Professional or the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED AP. If you are purchasing rugs, carpeting, or installing new flooring in your home, avoid purchasing synthetic materials. Wool carpets and rugs typically are safer for families. Nature’s Carpet and EarthWeave are two brands that offer safe carpet alternatives that are low on chemicals. It is also vital to stay away from toxic carpet padding, so rubber carpet pads and pads made from recycled content are typically the safest. If you are installing new tile, laminate, or a wood floor, check to see if the flooring has been treated with a fire retardant or if it was made with PVC. Hardwood floors are often the safest and greenest choice for your home and will emit the least amount of toxic gasses. Ceramic tile is another safe solution and it has a huge advantage when it comes to cleaning up after the kids’ messes—not only can you easily install it but it can withstand nearly any cleaning process. If you suspect that your home may have been built with toxic materials, a home inspection
TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
is the first step. Florida still currently has the highest number of homes made with Chinese drywall among the 44 states battling the issue. When you are purchasing a home, ask the homeowner if the home was built after 2004 and if it has ever had a history of drywall issues. The seller or agent is required to disclose this information when asked. A sulphur-like smell when you walk in the door is another red flag to look for. If you are renting, take a little bit of extra time to research when the home was built and any prior complaints. Talk to the owner and make sure to ask about any prior drywall issues. Education is key in making sure that your family doesn’t fall victim to these toxic homes. It is extremely important to get out of the home if it has been made with toxic chemicals. “This is something in your home. If you can’t be safe in your own home, then where can you be safe?” says Kinler. Red flags to watch for: • Metal beginning to tarnish. For example: picture frames, silverware, appliances that are silver will begin to turn black. • Fairly new appliances regularly breaking down. Routine issues with air conditioner units. • Pets becoming ill when they were otherwise healthy. • Foul smell like rotten eggs in the house. • Electronics breaking routinely. • Major nosebleeds in kids • Chronic fatigue • Builders, building owners, or sellers who are hesitant to discuss the home’s building materials. Safe Flooring Alternatives: • Wool carpets and rugs. Nature’s Carpet and EarthWeave are safe solutions for carpeting. • Real hardwood is one of the safest options, and it is easy to clean. Make sure to find out if it was treated with fire retardants before purchasing—if it was, it may be toxic. • Consider your sub-flooring. Rubber is a great option, as well as Wonder Board. • Ceramic tile is a safe solution to toxic flooring. Consider the type of grout and what types of sealants are being used and ask for non-toxic sealant. To sign Kinler’s petition, visit change.org.
Saint Paul’s Summer Camp 2016
REGISTER NOW FOR
SUMMER CAMPS! Open to Public Fun and Educational Camps for All Ages
AN OUTSTANDING
PRIVATE SCHOOL
Summer camp registration now open!
EXPERIENCE
Field Trips Engineering Marine Science
LEGO® Robotics Classic Day Camps Grand Slam Baseball
FOR STUDENTS IN P re K-12 TH GRADE www.farragut.org SIGNATURE PROGRAMS
Camps for Children Entering PreK-3 through 8th Grade Register today at www.st.pauls.edu/summercamp 1600 St. Paul’s Drive • Clearwater, FL | 727.536.2756 | www.ClearwatersIndependentSchool.org
STEM starts in PreK Marine Science Scuba and Sailing Aviation and Engineering Naval Jr. ROTC COMPETITIVE ATHLETICS
IMPRESSIVE MATRICULATION
SUMMER CAMPS
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What's Happening Summer Splash Join Tampa Bay Parenting and MOSI for Summer Splash 2016 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 9. For the ninth year, providers who specialize in summer camps and programs, health and wellness, college preparatory and much more will be on hand to meet you and help your kids have a fun, safe and adventurous summer. The first 150 kids will get a goodie bag filled with all you need for an exciting summer. Families can enjoy live entertainment as well as giveaways every half hour. Admission is $5 (free for museum members) and includes admission to all the amazing exhibits at the Tampa Bay History Center. SummerSplashTampaBay.com
Busch Gardens Food and Wine Festival Join Busch Gardens every Saturday and Sunday from March 5 through April 24 for the Food and Wine Festival. Tempt your taste buds with a food experience like none other, and try a variety of wine. Live entertainment includes concerts from Kenny Rogers, Huey Lewis and the News, O.A.R, MercyMe, Third Eye Blind, Commodores, Andy Grammer, The All-American Reject, Meat Loaf, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Jordin Sparks, and more. The festival is included in the price of daily admission or with an annual pass or Fun Card. BuschGardensTampa.com
Dinosaurs at MoSI Snap the jaws of a Tyrannosaurus rex, flap the fins of a Plesiosaur, and control millions of years at your fingertips as the Museum of Science & Industry presents Dinosaurs in Motion from now through May 8. Using gears and levers, visitors take control of life-size, massive metal skeletons – including a 44-foot-long T. rex. Inside each steel sculpture, visitors can watch the mechanical parts at work as the dinosaurs move, showing S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) principles in action. Admission to Dinosaurs in Motion is free to MOSI members and included with a general admission ticket. MOSI.org
tampa bay kids triathlon The Tampa Bay Sports Commission (TBSC), in conjunction with Adventure Island® and the Event Development Institute, are proud to announce the fourth annual Tampa Bay Kids Triathlon (TBKT). Set for Saturday, March 19 at 7:15 a.m., the TBKT offers participants the opportunity to swim, bike and run in and around Busch Gardens’ premier water park, Adventure Island. Boys and girls ages 7-10 (junior varsity division) and 11-14 (varsity division) are eligible to participate. The first 450 registrations will receive a complimentary, race-day ‘Stay and Play’ ticket to Adventure Island. TampaBayKidsTriathlon.com
tampa baby expo On March 6 from 12-4 p.m., the Tampa Baby Expo, Florida’s largest premier baby expo, will be taking over the Tampa Convention Center. Come learn from the experts and shop for the newest and best for your baby-- all with exclusive discounts. There will also be free 3D/4D ultrasounds, VIP swag bags, a stroller test track, and raffles and giveaways. VIP tickets are avaialble through pre-sale only. Single admission is $15, couples are $25, and kids 12 and under are free! Baby-Events.com
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
Pediatric Cancer Foundation’s
Tampa Port Authority Terminal 2 Saturday, April 30 at 6:30pm
s t a e f . r c w u w r e w . : o s r t a t n K i l l K e e g K l l i y n e @ n t f e a r s u t o e K r c k t u c a r t e .org Tpiocnsorship: con i
nt can s e m e v l ave o v n
ife a l
Your
S
5550 West Executive Drive • Ste 300 Tampa, FL 33609 • 813.269.0955
Tbp product guide
our favorite space scooter The perfect ride for all ages, the award-winning SpaceScooter is fun, fast and extremely safe, providing hours of fun for anyone who loves being outside. The regular model of this durable scooter comes equipped with a hand brake and air suspension. $150 www.spacescooter-usa.com
My Funkins Need something new and exciting to get your kids wanting to be clean? My Funkins is a new and exciting spin on the traditional boring napkin. These durable, washable and fashionable cloth napkins are also easy
march on!
on the environment! $3 http://www.myfunkins.com
Yookidoo Musical Duck race Quack, quack! Little ones have fun in the tub, and this toy comes with four cute duckies that ring around
Batman Teething ring
the fountain. This musical tub toy develops hand-eye
Get ready for the new Batman vs. Super-
coordination, cause and effect, and teaches colors and
man movie with this Batman teething ring
counting. $35 www.Amazon.com
from Bumkins. This silicone teething ring is safe and fun with interesting textures to keep little gums feeling soothed. They can also be refrigerated or frozen for extra relief. $7 www.bumkins.com
superman Super Bib Show your love for Superman before going to see the new Batman vs Superman movie with this special Superman bib! Made from easy to wipe, stain and odor resistant and waterproof fabric, this bib can be turned around to become a cape when dinner is done! $13 www.bumkins.com
switcharoos Perfect for Spring Break, these sandals come with interchangable tops so that you only need to pack one pair of shoes! Style them to match any outift. The complete set includes two pairs of soles (black and tan), 12 sets of fashionable style uppers, and our unique and fun carrying case! $90 www.switcharoos.com
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
Space Farm Geeks in space! Explore what it would take to set up an extraterrestrial farm on another planet. Experiment with a nutrient gel to grow garden cress in hydroponic tubes without soil. In the greenhouse dome, grow the alien-like succulent Tiger’s Jaws (Faucaria tigrina). Find out what plants need to grow and how those things might be provided on another world. Geekstronaut figures tend to your space farm while it grows. $20 www.thamesandkosmos.com
Irish Fairy Door The Irish Fairy Door Company encourages children to expand their imaginations by exploring the magical world of fairies with
Something cool
their award-winning handmade Irish fairy doors. $20 www. TheIrishFairyDoorCompany.com
Green Toys pizza parlor Little chefs can practice colors and counting, develop fine motor skills, and host make-believe parties for their stuffed animals and friends. This 27 piece mix-and-match set has everything your little one will need to have fun. $28 www.greentoys.com
shedrain Rain rain go away! Rain drops won’t be a bother when they are toting around an adorable character umbrella from ShedRain. The umbrellas feature an improved mechanism that
Mermaid Hair Bows These adorable hairclips are available in a variety of designs. Whether your little girl loves
prevents pinched fingers when opening and closing the umbrella, while plastic tips and a plastic top cap eliminate sharp edges. Additional features include a steel shaft and fiberglass ribs for extra durability.$15 www.shedrain.com
mermaids, flowers, owls or giraffes, there is something for everyone. These clips feature a snap-in-place clip and tulle and felt characters. $10 www.lilyandmomo.com
ahoy kamik rain boots These comfy rain boots are perfect for the Springtime showers hearding our way. The inside is lined with soft jersey material and the outside is 100% impenetrable. $31 www.kamik.com
squirrel king Create crafts and do STEAM activities with the kids with the Squirrel King! This four-pack includes individual craft kits for 12 kids. $70 www.squirrelking.org
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Extraordinary
Woman
By Angela Ardolino
Mastering the art of motherhood, work and community.
Molly Demeulenaere grew up on a horse farm in South Florida, where she spent most of her childhood. Her parents, Pam and Greg Demeulenaere, weren’t afraid to raise and homeschool Molly and her older brother, Brad, in unconventional ways—and perhaps unknowingly drew her toward her present job in an exciting and unpredictable world: as the CEO of MOSI. “I had the wonderful opportunity to spend most of my school-age years learning in an informal environment, including visiting water treatment plants, nature conservancies, and even MOSI – which really sparked my interest in science,” recalls Demeulenaere, who also started working at the age of 13 with a large animal veterinarian, Doctor David Randall. “I worked for many years at his clinic, Big Cypress Animal Clinic in Naples, and he really shaped me into the thinker and worker I am today. From the first time I set out on house calls until I left his practice to pursue other career opportunities, Dr. Randall treated me with respect and gave me autonomy to learn, make mistakes and think for myself. He held others to the same standards and taught me that it doesn’t matter how old you are or what your background is, if you have a passion for something and work hard enough, your dreams can come true.” what do you think is the secret to your family's success? Work ethic! In addition to working for the vet, I also had daily chores including milking goats, mucking stalls and even working in my parents’ carpet and furniture cleaning business. Going to work with my dad wasn’t enough; my parents pushed me to think like an entrepreneur and I started making pot holders on the way to clients’ homes in the morning and then would “pitch” them before he was done cleaning. Sometimes I would even look at their kitchen when we would arrive and make coordinating pot holders while we were onsite so I knew they would buy them before we left. I saved all my money and bought my first car when I was 15: in cash! what is your biggest fear? My biggest fear is fear. It strangles my
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confidence and reduces productivity, which has a very negative effect of both my work and personal lives. What is the worst that can happen? I fail? Ok, well, every person that has accomplished great things has failed at something, right? This is not to say that I don’t worry about it day in and day out. I set very high goals for myself and the people around me and risk-taking is in my DNA. This comes with its share of fear. I want to make my team proud, my organization thrive and my community a better place. what advice would you give to other women? Don’t let people tell you ‘no.’ By the way, I give everyone that advice. Don’t sit at the kids’ table. Show up, do what you say you are going to do and over-deliver. Don’t think about being a woman. Think about being the best professional, parent, mentor and community member possible. What else can people expect? On the other hand, remember what is important. Most people who have known me for a long time know I have had enough hair colors to match every color in the Easter basket---even pink and blue. When I was younger, I felt that expressing my individuality through fashion was part of my identity, and if people judged me by my looks, that was their problem. A few years later, when choosing my next path and thinking about the conundrum of selfexpression versus career goals, someone asked me: What’s your mission in life? Do you want to change people’s lives or have pink hair? Enough said; the pink went away and I haven’t thought about it since. That is a lesson I wish I had learned a few years earlier! what is your proudest moment? Becoming the president and CEO of MOSI. I am 38 years old and I’ve traveled a very non-traditional path, and with hard work, passion, blood, sweat and tears, I have my dream job. I get to come to work every day and watch people’s minds expand. I yearn for more knowledge, and work with donors to transform children’s lives through education. Really, I can’t imagine having a better job, a job that makes me get up every day at 5 a.m. without an alarm and run to my office. Yup,
TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
still proud to be MOSI’s leader. what is your biggest achievement? I don’t think I am there yet. I feel there is so much more to do. I think I have benchmarks in my life. Most people don’t know it, but I was a professional ballroom dancer in my 20’s and got to travel around the world and opened my own dance studio in Sarasota. what makes you happy? Smiling, content and healthy people including myself and those closest to me. I have a wonderful partner and step-son, and when I am not working, I am spending time with them here and in Germany. how do you relax and take time for yourself? The beach, sunrise and sunset. Even though I grew up accustomed to seeing them, I still can’t get enough and not a week that goes by that I don’t marvel at the beauty of where we live. I love mid-century modern architecture and furniture. I can often be found scouring thrift stores and vintage shops for the next great find. Oh, and great food and wine. what kind of message would you like to give women in the area? It is time we start acting like the majority, be confident and give ourselves a break for not being perfect. Men aren’t perfect and you don’t see them worrying about it. Step back, look around and do something every day to make Tampa Bay a better place. what is your favorite thing to do with your kids in tampa bay? We visit science centers all over the world, but in Tampa Bay I have to say that the Tampa Trio of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) in the Florida Aquarium, Lowry Park Zoo and MOSI always top our list. Is that a shameless plug? Maybe, but I have been talking about being fearless, so I had better walk the walk. what is your biggest inspiration? So many! My parents; Dr. Randall; my first non-profit mentor, Patricia Caswell; my staff; science center CEOs from around the world, and the list goes on.
molly demeulenaere Molly at the Idea Zone at MOSI, where helpers Giana C., Jaylin B., Brady H., Christian H., Alex V., Zander T., Jonathan H., Riley N., and Yasmid D. helped us create shapes using sticks. Photo by Jeanine McLeod, Cloud 9 Studios
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South hillsborough apollo beach | lithia | riverview ruskin | south tampa | valrico | fishhawk
Local Ballet Dancer Wins Big at Youth America Grand prix
dates:
The Straz Center for the Performing Arts’ Next Generation Ballet (NGB) was named Outstanding School, along with Orlando Ballet School, at the semi-final Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) competition held Jan. 8-10 at the Straz Center. This is the competition’s highest honor for a school. Additionally, NGB student Jordan Martinez, 15, won the competition’s highest honor for a student, Senior Grand Prix.
Kids Zumba at Campo YMCA Get the kids pumped up for this weekly activity Thursday nights at Campo Family YMCA in Valrico. Program features age-appropriate music and dance fitness moves to keep kids active. For more information, call 813-684-1371.
More than 350 young dancers from 48 dance schools across the southeastern United States competed in the three-day contest. The top dancers were selected to perform in the Stars of Today Meet Stars of Tomorrow YAGP gala, the event’s culmination held Jan. 9 at the Center’s Ferguson Hall. Numerous NGB students placed highly in the competition. Ellie Borick and Neal Burks placed first in their divisions and NGB won top honors for its ensemble piece, choreographed by NGB Artistic Director Philip Neal. These students plus five more NGB dancers were selected to participate in the YAGP New York City finals to be held in April, at which time they will compete for scholarships and job offers. Those who placed in the top 12 for classical and contemporary categories include Miya Mobley, Tessa Hartmann, Juliette Jones, Alexandra de Roos, Gillian Yoder and Avery Jarrard. The Top 24 includes Jayden Capella, Makayla Dorris and Maya O’Donnell. YAGP, the largest student ballet competition in the world, screens more than 5,000 dance students internationally in regional competitions. For more information about Next Generation Ballet or other programs, call 813-222-1002 or visit the school online at patelconservatory.org.
ThunderBug Kids Club Seeks Its Littlest Fans The Tampa Bay Lightning invites families to enroll the hockey team’s youngest fans in the ThunderBug Kids Club. Membership is open to children ages 12 and younger. Three levels of membership are available and valid through June 2016, including Rookie (free), All-Star ($25) and Captain’s ($50). All members receive a welcome letter from ThunderBug, and monthly email newsletters with special offers, including one Kid’s Club Ticket Discount to select Lightning home games per month. All levels also receive an official Kid’s Club Membership Card and ThunderBug Autograph Card along with special merchandise coupons. At All-Star Level, kids also get access to special quarterly club member events, an official Kid’s Club drawstring bag of Lightning goodies, an autographed Lightning puck, and a free terrace level ticket to a select Lightning game. Captain’s Level members are eligible for automatic entry to win additional prize experiences, an invitation to an exclusive player meet and greet post-game event for a select game, a Lightning lanyard and autographed Lightning mini-stick. For more information about the Kid’s Club or to sign up, visit tampabaysportsstore.com.
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
March 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31
March 6, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Fresh Market at Hyde Park Village Check out a variety of locally produced goods and handcrafted items at this South Tampa outdoor market. Listen to live music while you browse and support area restaurants within walking distance. hydeparkvillage.com
March 19, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Mayor’s River O’Green Fest Join Mayor Bob Buckhorn for a celebration of all things Irish along the Hillsborough River at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. Enjoy music, activities, food trucks and more as guests watch the river turn green in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. Free. tampa.gov
March 19-20, various times Tampa Bay AirFest Take the family to MacDill Air Force Base for a day of mesmerizing static displays of military aircraft and flight demonstrations by military and civilian performers. Guests get to learn about the military personnel and equipment there on the base and witness the aerial feats of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. Free admission. www.macdill.af.mil/ airfest2016/
March 22, 7-8:30 p.m. Postpartum Support Group Meet with other moms, both pregnant and postpartum, to share about the stresses of becoming a mother as part of this monthly support group at St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital in Tampa. Led by a social worker, the group will talk about new roles and emotional changes they are facing. Free. Register at baycare.org/events.
March 31, 4-5 p.m. Puppet Show: The Peacock’s Gift Bring your little ones for a special Chinese folk tale at this show hosted by Bloomingdale Regional Public Library in Valrico. Guests will meet the Peacock Fairy and a humble little peacock in this story about giving, kindness and taking responsibility for one’s actions. For more information, call 813-273-3652.
and Gain 20,000 New Friends. Come get face-to-face with all your favorite creatures, ranging from adorable sea turtles to huge sand tiger sharks and playful otters. Touch spectacular stingrays. Even meet ring-tailed lemurs at Journey to Madagascar. There’s something for everyone, including a Wild Dolphin Cruise* where you can view bottlenose dolphins. *Weather permitting. Additional fees required.
flaquarium.org | 813.273.4000
MAR 26 8-10AM
at th e
$12 General Admission | Free Members
T I C K E T S O N S A L E N O W, M E M B E R S M U S T P R E - R E G I S T E R
Ready, set, go! GCM is so egg-citied for Egg Hunt 2016. Join us for a morning full of egg hunting and prizes for your findings throughout the Museum. Enjoy light refreshments, a special toddler area for children three and under, and a photo op with the Easter Bunny. Admission includes all day play in the Museum.
L E A R N M O R E A T G L A Z E R M U S E U M . O R G / E V E N T/ E G G H U N T 2 0 1 6
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north hillsborough carrollwood | citrus park | lutz | new tampa odessa | temple terrace | westchase
Dinosaurs in Motion Invade Tampa's MoSI Massive metal dinosaurs have overtaken Tampa’s MOSI as part of its latest museum exhibit, which opened Saturday, Jan. 30. The new interactive dinosaur exhibit will provide guests an opportunity to do everything from snap the jaws of a Tyrannosaurus rex to flip the fins of a Plesiosaur. The limited engagement will be open through May 8. Admission to Dinosaurs in Motion is free to MOSI members and included with a general admission ticket. Hailed by the museum as the most interactive dinosaur exhibit to ever visit the Tampa Bay area, this latest addition allows visitors to take control via gears and levers of life-size, massive metal skeletons, including a 44-foot long T. rex. Visitors can see inside each steel sculpture and watch the mechanical parts at work as the dinosaurs move, demonstrating S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Mathematics) principles in action. They also will be able to create their own art and science projects with hands-on activities at Innovation Stations. “It’s an awesome way to get everyone engaged in S.T.E.A.M. education, without ever feeling like they’re being ‘taught’ something,” says MOSI President and CEO Molly Demeulenaere. “With ‘Dinosaurs in Motion,’ you’re controlling the collision of science and art, and adding your own creativity to the mix.”
dates: March 1, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Dr. Seuss’s Birthday Party Indulge in all things Dr. Seuss at this annual celebration hosted by the Temple Terrace Juniorettes at Temple Terrace Public Library. Party includes games, crafts, face painting and stories. For more information, call 813-506-6770.
March 2 and 16, 2-4 p.m. Mom and Baby Support Group Interact with other new moms and their babies at the Women’s Health Pavilion at Florida Hospital Tampa. Different topics will be presented at each meeting, such as tips for traveling with baby and advice for making baby food. Babies must be between four weeks and 14 months in age. Registration is not required. floridahospital.com/tampa/events
March 3, 6-9 p.m.
The exhibition also features a moving human element, referencing the behind-the-scenes story of its artist, John Payne, who dedicated thousands of hours turning recycled materials into works of art. Through video and interaction, visitors follow Payne’s path as an apprentice and walk away with Payne’s inspiring message: If you can dream it, you can do it. For more information about this and other MOSI exhibits or to purchase tickets in advance, go to mosi. org.
Infant and Child CPR Sign up for this valuable and potentially life-saving class hosted by St. Joseph’s Hospital - North in Lutz. Attendees will learn how to perform CPR and choking rescue methods on infants and children based on American Heart Association guidelines. Cost is $40. Register at baycare.org/events.
Developmental Screenings Available
March 5, 7-11 p.m.
Parents are encouraged to take part in a special offering from Early Childhood Council (ECC) in partnership with Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resources System and The Children’s Board of Hillsborough County. They have teamed up to offer infant, toddler and preschool developmental screenings throughout the school year to local children ages newborn to 5 years old. Remaining screening appointments are still available through July and cover a variety of child development areas including vision, hearing, speech, language, behavior and overall development. Grace Point Church, located at 1107 Charlie Griffin Road in Plant City, will host this month’s scheduled screenings on Friday, March 4. Additional dates are planned at the following locations: Timothy’s Catholic Church in Lutz (April 1); Lake Carroll Baptist Church in Tampa (May 13); First United Methodist Church in Brandon (June 9); City Life Church in Tampa (July 14); and South Tampa Fellowship in Tampa (Aug. 24). In the past 24 years, the ECC, with assistance from over 35 collaborating agencies, has screened over 15,000 children. According to the organization, approximately 78 percent of the children screened annually are referred for further evaluation and/or to community services for further assistance due to some type of behavioral or developmental issue. To schedule an appointment for a free children’s development screening, call 813-837-7723.
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Turner/Bartels K-8 Imagine Gala Come out and show your support for Turner/Bartels K-8 at this annual fundraiser hosted by Hunter’s Green Country Club in New Tampa. Evening features a silent auction and light refreshments. Tickets are $35 per person or $60 per couple. turnerbartels.mysdhc.org
March 7, 2-3 p.m. Fire Station Field Trip Meet up with other families at the Lutz Branch Library to watch an educational puppet show on fire safety. After the show, guests will get an up-close view inside a fire station when the group heads next door for a personal tour. For more information, call 813-273-3652.
March 19, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Carrollwoodstock Enjoy a day-long festival of music, art and food at this fun annual event hosted by Carrollwood Cultural Center. Hear local bands, stop by booths to browse work by area artists and sample dishes from some of Carrollwood’s top restaurants. carrollwoodcenter.org
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South pinellas pinellas park | seminole | st. pete beach largo | st. petersburg | treasure island
pinellas Education Foundation receives National Ford Grant
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The Pinellas Education Foundation has been named a Ford Next Generation Learning (Ford NGL) Innovation Center by Ford NGL, a community-driven education initiative developed by the philanthropic arm of Ford Motor Company. This funding will provide a $25,000 grant to help the Pinellas Education Foundation become a Ford NGL Innovation Center (Ford NGL IC), a nationally certified center of expertise that coaches and mentors communities through a five-phase roadmap to transform teaching and learning, the secondary school experience, and business and civic engagement. Ford NGL communities connect academy students with professionals currently working in their chosen field, providing valuable insight into dayto-day challenges and the skills required for success.
March 4, 11, 18 and 25, 6:30 p.m.
“It’s a great honor,” says Cathy Collins, Chair of the Pinellas Education Foundation. “Career education is a top priority for our Foundation since our vision is that every student will be prepared for life after high school, whether the choice is to attend college, enter the workforce or obtain technical training.” The Ford NGL IC located in Pinellas scheduled its first Ford NGL study conference for more than 150 participants on Feb. 16-19 in St. Pete Beach to introduce the Ford NGL framework and roadmap. For more information about the program and recent conference, visit pinellaseducation.org.
Learn Water Safety This Spring Break This month, the Tampa YMCA hosts Safety Around Water Week beginning Monday, March 14 through Thursday, March 17, which falls during Hillsborough County Public Schools’ spring break period. Nine YMCA locations will be offering free swim lessons during the week to children ages 3-12. Participants take part in a 4-day course with daily sessions lasting 40 minutes in length. Classes are free to both YMCA members and non-members. Taught by certified instructors, the course teaches children a sequenced set of skills to reduce their risk of drowning and build their confidence in and around water. Sessions include exercises to help children adjust to being in water, instruction in skill sets to protect them if they unexpectedly fall, and discussion of specific safety topics and fun activities to reinforce skills and understanding of information. The Safety Around Water program is part of the YMCA’s commitment to promote water safety throughout the Tampa Bay community. The Y encourages parents to join them in this commitment and take an active role in their child’s safety. Parents can ensure their children learn how to swim and encourage their adherence to water safety rules when they are in or around the water. Other strategies can be both practical and life-saving such as the use of fences, secured doors with alarms and self-closing/self-latching gates; direct supervision of children at play in or around water; and parents’ own emergency response readiness, including basic water rescue skills, first aid and CPR. Registration for the Safety Around Water program opened Feb. 18 for members and Feb. 22 for non-members. For participating YMCA locations, visit tampaymca.org.
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Movies in Largo Central Park Bring a blanket or chair to catch a family-friendly movie under the stars every Friday night at Largo Central Park. Concessions are available for purchase. Free admission. Check back for a list of upcoming movie titles at largo.com.
March 7, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Roll Over and Read Encourage kids to practice their reading through this unique program at St. Petersburg Main Library. Program helps kids gain confidence in their reading as they sit for 15-minute sessions with reading therapy dogs. For more information, call 727-893-7724. splibraries.org
March 9, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Daddy 101 Men new to family life or those wanting a skillsharpener can sign up for this class led by a veteran fire and EMS expert at St. Petersburg General Hospital. Participants will learn everything from how to hold an infant properly and diapering to bathing and responding in the event of an emergency. Class is free. Register at stpetegeneral.com.
March 11, 7 p.m. Shamrock’n run 5K and Walk Kick off your St. Patrick’s Day celebration at this annual event at Largo’s Ulmer Park. Older family members can tackle the 5K or 1.5-mile walk; kids ages seven and younger can participate in the Clover Kids Fun Run. For registration fees and schedule details, visit largosports. com.
March 14 and 26, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Safe Sitter Sign up your prospective babysitter ages 11-14 for this informative course offered hosted by the All Children’s Hospital Education and Conference Center in St. Pete. Participants will get life-saving skills, play fun games while learning and take part in role-playing exercises to practice CPR and choking rescue. Cost is $55. To register, call 727-767-2328. allkids.org
March 18, various times Fun Friday Take the kids ages 6-12 to Forbes Recreation Center in Pinellas Park every third Friday of the month, starting in March. Pizza dinner is included with registration. Cost is $5 per child. For more information, call 727-369-5684.
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CUTEST BABY DO YOU HAVE THE CUTEST BABY IN THE TAMPA BAY AREA?
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north pinellas oldsmar | clearwater | dunedin palm harbor | safety harbor East Lake | tarpon springs
Members Show Support for Theater Field Trips program
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Ruth Eckerd Hall recently announced that because of supporters and their generous donations, more than 15,000 low-income students will continue to get the opportunity to visit the venue as part of the special low-cost field trips program offered through the Marcia P. Hoffman School of the Arts, whose performances are held inside the Clearwater venue’s Richard B. Baumgardner Center for the Performing Arts. Powered by a matching gift from Alan Gassman of the Clearwater law firm Gassman, Crotty & Denicolo, P.A. as well as an anonymous donor, Ruth Eckerd Hall members and supporters achieved its $50,000 fundraising goal during the closing weeks of 2015.
March 4, 10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Donations support the venue’s popular SchoolTime series which provides low-income students throughout the Bay Area the opportunity to view world-class theater performed on the stage through the Hoffman School of the Arts. Shows are designed to reinforce classroom lessons in math, science, reading and history.
March 5, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
With all tickets $5 unless otherwise specified, the SchoolTime Series makes theater productions affordable and accessible for younger visitors. Shows run year-long with most productions approximately 55 minutes in running time, and cover a variety of themes and stories. For March, Virginia Rep on Tour presents “Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad” with tickets available for only 25 cents thanks to the show’s generous sponsor, Macy’s. A performance for children in grades 3-8 is scheduled for 11 a.m. Friday, March 11 at the Hall’s downtown venue, Capitol Theatre. For more information about this or other upcoming productions in the SchoolTime Series, visit hoffmanschoolofthearts.com or call 727-712-2706.
Trashy Treasures Await Dunedin Shoppers The Dunedin Fine Art Center (DFAC) is currently accepting gently used artwork and art-related supplies for the Annual Trashy Treasures Art Sale, the Center’s popular yearly art garage sale to be held Saturday, March 5. The Center, located at 1143 Michigan Blvd., will continue accepting donations through Feb. 28. A Trashy Treasures Preview Party featuring what the art venue deems the best of all trashy treasures collected will be held at 6 p.m. Friday, March 4 at the DFAC. Preview Party admission is $10 and includes admission to the Center’s current “Contain It!” multi-media installation fest. For more information about this year’s event, call 727-298-3322, ext. 236 or email linda@dfac. org. Learn more about current and upcoming exhibits at the Center at dfac.org.
International Women’s Day Lunch Join Working Women of Tampa Bay at its fourth annual leadership luncheon at Feathersound Country Club in Clearwater. Event features networking, lunch and guest speakers, including keynote guest Iraqi War veteran Laura Westley. Tickets are $35 members and $50 nonmembers. workingwomenoftampabay.com
Boot Camp for New Dads Sign up new or expectant fathers for this helpful class at Morton Plant Hospital’s Powell Pavilion in Clearwater. A certified facilitator will share ways for dads to bond with baby, tips for baby care and pointers for surviving the first few weeks and supporting mom. Cost is $25. Register at baycare.org/events.
March 12, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Autos for Autism 2016 Check out a variety of classic cars and listen to live music as part of this annual car show fundraiser to benefit autism causes in downtown Tarpon Springs. Pre-registration is $15; day of show, $20. aacaricheyregion.com
March 18 and 19, 5 p.m. 2016 Drive-In Movie Night: The Sandlot Catch a movie under the stars as part of this fun outdoor film screening event at Highlander Park. Night includes music, trivia and the 1993 youth baseball classic. Families must pre-register. Cost is $10 per car. Park opens at 5 p.m. with movie to begin at dark. For more information, call 727-812-4530.
March 20, 8 a.m. Nolan’s St. Patrick’s Day 5K Lace up the sneakers for a family walk/run event along Safety Harbor’s scenic Main Street. Morning begins with welcome festivities including a traditional bagpipe performance followed by a run through downtown. Cost is $30 per person advance and $35 day of race (all ages). Register at nolanspub.com.
March 21-25, various times
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
Water Safety Program at Clearwater Y Enroll the kids in a free 5-day water safety course being offered through Clearwater YMCA in time for spring break. Families can also sign up for parent/child swim lessons with next session to begin March 28 and run through April 21. For more information, call 727-4619622. suncoastymca.org.
Learn | Explore | Inspire
Espiritu Santo Catholic School
Academic Excellence for PK3 through 8th Grade Centrally Located in Safety Harbor | Ask Us About Tuition Assistance!
www.ESCSchool.org
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For more information please call 727 799 1200 x 1024 or visit our website www.platoacademy.net
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pasco dade city | land o' lakes | new port richey trinity | wesley chapel | zephyrhills
Photo by Nicole Geller Photography
Former American Idol Headlines New Music Event
dates:
Families can experience a new outdoor music event arriving in Land O’ Lakes this month. The Spring Music Festival & Expo launches Friday, March 11 and Saturday, March 12 at The Fraternal Order of Police Pasco Lodge #29, a private park on Bell Lake located on the northeast corner of Land O’ Lakes Boulevard (U.S. 41) and Bell Lake Road.
Wiregrass Ranchers Kids Club Take the kids for a fun interactive morning at Shops at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel presented the first Wednesday each month by Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel. This month, kids meet up with children’s entertainer Mr. Tommy and can enjoy face painting, balloon art and other activities. shopsatwiregrass.com
Headlining the debut of the Pasco music festival is former American Idol and popular singermusician Taylor Hicks. In addition to music, Friday’s festivities include food trucks and beer/ wine sales. (No coolers or pets will be allowed.) The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce event, presented by Wesley Chapel Nissan and sponsored by IERNA’S Heating & Cooling, also includes a business exposition on Saturday featuring more than 100 local companies. “We are creating a new community event to bring together local families and businesses to enjoy good music, good times and the good life we all have in Central Pasco,” says Chamber President Elayne Bassinger. Taylor Hicks, season 5 American Idol winner in 2006, kicks off the festival Friday evening. Gates open at 6 p.m. with opening act Solar Exposure to begin at 6:30 p.m. General admission to Friday’s concert is $25 for open lawn seating. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs. Preferred seating is also available for $40. On Saturday, admission is free. In addition to the business expo, Saturday will offer guests a full day of musical entertainment by several local bands. Tickets can be purchased at centralpascochamber.com with proceeds to benefit the Memorial Fund of The Fraternal Order of Police and to the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce.
Medical Center of Trinity unveils New Level II NICu Medical Center of Trinity recently opened its new Level II neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) with care provided by All Children’s Specialty Physicians neonatologists. The $7 million project is the first NICU in Pasco County and also serves patients from Hernando, northern Pinellas and Hillsborough counties. The 4,718-square-foot NICU is an expansion of the hospital’s existing obstetrics program. It offers advanced levels of care for babies born as early as 32 weeks, as well as high-risk pregnancies. All Children’s Specialty Physicians neonatologists provide clinical expertise. Medical Center of Trinity staff includes registered nurses experienced in neonatal intensive care. The new NICU addition allows the Medical Center to offer 12 Level II NICU beds; an overnight “nesting” room for families transitioning to taking their babies home; access to free WiFi; recliners to promote bonding and skin-to-skin contact; a licensed clinical social worker dedicated to NICU babies and their families; a family-centered care committee; NICU parent meetings as well as parent and sibling education; and an emphasis on breastfeeding. For more information on this and other programs and services, visit medicalcentertrinity.com.
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March 2, 10 a.m.
March 12, 8 a.m. Pot of Gold Relay Race Enlist the whole family to compete in a fun relay at Veterans Memorial Park in Hudson hosted by Investigation Station. Proceeds raise funding for an educational splash pad at Veterans Memorial Park. For more information, visit the non-profit’s Facebook page by typing “Investigation Station” in search.
March 12, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Hunger Walk for Pasco Sign up for this annual fundraiser at Gulf High School in New Port Richey. Proceeds benefit the Pack a Sack program in Pasco Schools with a portion of funds to be donated to hot meal sites throughout Pasco. onecommunitynowhungerwalk.org
March 12, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. 106th Annual Founders Day Celebration Head downtown to experience this longtime Zephyrhills tradition. This year’s theme is “That’s Entertainment” with a full-day of festivities along 5th Avenue Participants in the annual 5K Race and 1 mile run/walk set off at 8 a.m. The city’s popular Founder’s Day parade follows the race through downtown Zephyrhills. mszi.org
March 19, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. 7th Annual Cycling for Autism Get your wheels in motion for a good cause and take part in this Tampa Interbay Rotary Foundation fundraiser. Cyclists start from the Pasco Rotary Pavilion in Spring Hill and ride 3, 6, 12, 25 or 50-mile tracks through Starkey Wilderness Park. interbayrotary.org
March 19, noon and 7 p.m. HACA 33rd Annual Spotlight on Talent Support young local talent at the performing arts competition’s final show inside the theater at Wesley Chapel High School. Over $4,000 in cash prizes and trophies will be awarded. Young finalists are showcased during Act I at noon; older competitors during Act II at 7 p.m. Tickets for adults are $12 per show or $20 both shows; for students, $6 per show or $10 for both (guests under 5 are free). heritagearts.org
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polk auburndale | bartow | haines city lakeland | lake wales | winter haven
Lakeland Launches public Bike Sharing program The City of Lakeland and Zagster have partnered to deliver a public bike sharing program to local residents. The Lakeland program known as “Swan City Cycles” includes 35 cruiser bikes that are available at seven locations around the City for riders to checkout for ondemand, local trips. Riders can become Swan City Cycle members by purchasing an annual, monthly or hourly pass. Rides for system members are free for up to an hour and a half, then $3 per hour after. An annual pass can be purchased for $25. Mayor Howard Wiggs and the Lakeland City Commission were on hand at a dedication ceremony at downtown Lakeland’s Munn Park in December to officially introduce the bike share program to the community. The program is made possible by sponsorship from the City of Lakeland’s Community Redevelopment Authority and Lakeland Downtown Development Authority, as well as: Lakeland Vision, Citrus Connection, , Polk Museum of Art, Lake Morton Neighborhood Association, First United Methodist and Florida Southern College. “All of us who have supported Swan City Cycles understand that having a bike sharing system is a sign of a vibrant, healthy and engaged community,” says Julie Townsend, executive director of the Downtown Development Authority. Riders can join by following the instructions on the Zagster Mobile App, available for iPhone and Android. To use the Mobile App, riders enter the unique ID of the bike they wish to use and an access code for the lock box is provided. Alternatively, they can text the bike ID and receive the code in return. Riders can use the code throughout the duration of their rental to lock and unlock the bike anywhere along their trip. Once the bike is returned to any of the seven Swan City Cycles locations, the touch of a button ends the rental and releases the bike for the next rider. For more information about the new program or to download the app, go to zagster.com/lakeland.
Fundraiser Aims to Transform Trash into Treasure Families are encouraged to come out for a special garage sale to support area children in need. “Trash to Treasure” is being held 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, March 12 at the Lake Ashton Clubhouse, located at 4141 Ashton Club Dr. in Lake Wales. This fundraising sale sponsored by Blankets of Love at Lake Ashton is designed to benefit the organization’s program to provide comforting blankets for Polk County children in crisis. The sale will be held in the Clubhouse ballroom and feature a room full of furniture and gently used items from Lake Ashton residents. A $4 hot dog lunch also will be available to browsers for purchase. All Blankets of Love donations remain local and enable the organization to purchase more blanket supplies. The program’s goal is to reach any child in Polk County in need of immediate comfort. For more information about the fundraiser or the Blankets of Love at Lake Ashton program, email patneav@aol.com.
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dates: Feb. 26-28, March 4-6, 11-13, various times Peter Pan Spend an evening with Peter, Tinkerbell and friends as this classic musical hits the stage at Lakeland Community Theatre. Tickets are $22 adults, $20 seniors (55 and older), $15 students with I.D. and $10 children 12 and younger. lakelandcommunitytheatre.com
March 5, 7-9 p.m. Death by Chocolate Indulge in mouthwatering chocolate desserts, as well as wines, beer and refreshments at this Rotary fundraiser at Lake Eva Banquet Hall in Haines City. Tickets are $25 with proceeds to provide supplies for local schools and scholarships for area students. For tickets, call 863-4214009 or email tbroadway.rotary@gmail.com.
March 18, 6:30-9 p.m. Free Family Movie Night Bring the whole family for a fun night at the movies the third Friday each month at James P. Austin III Community Center in Lake Wales. Circle of Friends will have concessions for sale. Film starts at 6:30 p.m. Free. For movie titles, call 863-678-4182, x270
March 19, 8 a.m. - noon Community Health Fair Come out for this informative event hosted by Heart of Florida Regional Medical Center in Davenport. Attendees can take part in a variety of free screenings. Event also includes free drawings for giveaways, physician seminars and opportunities to interact with healthcare professionals and educations. Free entry. heartofflorida. com
March 19, 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. CPR/First Aid Certification Register for this valuable course offered through Girl Scouts of West Central Florida at Family Fundamentals in Lakeland. Course teaches hands-on skills and training for basic Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation, including adult, child and infant, with use of an Automated External Defibrillator. Cost is $40 for adults with registration to close March 10. gswcf.org
March 31, 8 a.m. Youth Leadership & Scholarship Golf Tournament Tee up for a good cause as part of this fourth annual benefit at The Country Club of Winter Haven. Golfers can take part in a four-person scramble with a chance to win cash and raffle prizes while raising funds for the Haines City Chamber of Commerce’s Youth Leadership and Scholarship programs. Register by March 11 at hainescitychamber.com.
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
Around Town
To see more photos, visit: TBParenting.com/Facebook
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Holly Garemore, Greg Levy, Megan Ford and Carrie Perkins at the grand opening of the new After Hours Pediatrics office.
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Tampa Metro YMCA staff members Dawn, Michelle and Marilyn at Treadmill Tuesday, where Tampa competed with Jacksonville to see which city could have the most miles walked on a treadmill collectively.
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Shorecrest students at the 2016 SteamFest learning about reptiles.
Tampa mayor Bob Buckhorn handing over the key to the city to the pirates that invaded the bay for Gasparilla.
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Tampa mayor Bob Buckhorn at the Academy of the Holy Names Groundbreaking Event for the Bailey Family Center for the Arts.
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Tampa Bay Parenting staff members Jen and Jill Assalti with Good Morning America’s Amy Robach at the Philanthropic Women’s Annual Luncheon.
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Corbett Preparatory School of IDS students are gearing up for the summer by making arts and crafts.
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Angela Ardolino and Molly Dem at the Museum of Science and Industry Idea Zone.
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The staff of All Children’s Hospital came out to the Children’s Gasparilla Parade to show support and educate families on safety.
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Tony Dungy and his family delivered more than 300 game baskets to the kids at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital.
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march Events fundraiser for Big Brothers Big Sisters being hosted by locations throughout the Bay area. bowl.kintera. org/2016. Moms, Dads
Children's Board Free Tuesday
March 2, 2-7 p.m. Bring the kids to Glazer Museum and enjoy free admission as part of this special promotion sponsored by The Children’s Board of Hillsborough County. See the museum’s current exhibits and meet special guests. Adults must be accompanied by a child and vice versa. glazermuseum.org Everyone
Harlem Globetrotters
e v e n t s & f e s t i va l s Sky Trail ropes Course and Zipline
All Month, various times Get an adrenaline rush unlike any other as part of MOSI’s zip line and its ropes course, featuring 35 elements on a 12-36 ft. high, multi-level structure designed for all ages. Zip line launches visitors from 65 feet above the ground to travel more than 700 feet across the grounds. Fee is separate from museum admission. mosi.org Everyone
IHop Miracle Balloon Campaign
Through March 8 Show your support at participating locations in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco and Pasco for Tampa Bay’s own Children’s Medical Network facility, All Children’s Hospital. Customers can purchase a Miracle Balloon for $1 and $5 each with all donations raised to help local sick and injured kids get the care they need. Customers who purchase a $5 balloon will receive a $5 coupon for a future visit. ihop.com Everyone
Dinosaurs in Motion
Through May 6, various times Experience this latest exhibit at Tampa’s MOSI for a limited engagement. Watch the explosion when art and science collide in this unique, interactive exhibit during which visitors control life-size, metal dinosaur skeletons. Guests will also be able to create their own art creations. Exhibit is included with general admission. mosi.org Everyone
March 2, 7 p.m. Celebrated 90 years of the world famous Harlem Globetrotters as they bring their unrivaled family show and lot of smiles to Amalie Arena in Tampa. See a starstudded roster featuring Big Easy Lofton, Ant Atkinson, Hi-Lite Bruton, and more. Tickets are $20-$55, $110 ringside and $325 (bench). amaliearena.com Everyone
pATH Teaching Information Sessions
March 3, 5:45 p.m. Those with a desire to teach students with disabilities and who have completed non-education college degrees can learn about PATH, a new Hillsborough County Public Schools grant-funded program to recruit, train and re-train potential Exceptional Student Education teachers. An information session is being held at CareerSource Tampa Bay, 9215 N. Florida Ave., Suite 101, Tampa. Register at 5:45 p.m. with session to begin at 6:15 p.m. Learn more at sdhc.k12.fl.us/ departments/about/187/path. Moms, Dads
Florida Strawberry Festival
March 3-13, various times Pack up the whole family for a Plant City tradition of rides, shows and delicious strawberry themed dishes. Visit the neighborhood village to see this year’s ribbon winners and explore the grounds’ games and activities. Admission is $10 (ages 13 and older); $5 for kids ages 6-12; and free for ages 5 and younger. flstrawberryfestival.com Everyone
Developmental Screenings
March 1-5, various times Enjoy this yearly celebration of all things Seuss at the Glazer Children’s Museum in Tampa. Partake in storytimes, green eggs and ham demos and more. glazermuseum.org Everyone
Starts March 4 Take your little ones for free screenings in such areas as vision, hearing, speech, language, behavior and overall development as part of this program sponsored by Early Childhood Council and Children’s Board of Hillsborough County. Screenings will be available each month at different locations. This month, visit GracePoint Church in Plant City. To reserve a spot, call 813-837-7723. Newborn - 5
Make It 3.0
The DreamMaker Luncheon
Seusstastic and read Across America
March 1-31, various times Kids can take part in specially themed daily hands-on learning programs at the Glazer supported by the Tampa Bay Rays. Guests also can make new creations with safe tools and machines while learning about STEAM principles as part of the Make It Zone. glazermuseum. org 5-10
Bowl for Kids' Sake
March 1 - Aug. 1 Hit the lanes for a good cause as part of this annual
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March 4, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Celebrate this year’s Dream Maker,13 Ugly Men, at this annual benefit luncheon for The Children’s Dream Fund being hosted by Marriott Waterside in Tampa. Tickets are $65 individual and $100 patron. childrensdreamfund. org Moms, Dads
parents Night out at Lowry park Zoo March 5, 5:30-11 p.m. Drop off the kids with the professional Education
TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
Department staff at the Zoo and enjoy an evening for errands and date night. Cost is $45 for one child and $15 per additional sibling and includes entertainment, a pizza snack and beverages. Young guests must be fully potty trained. lowryparkzoo.com 3-10
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Food and Wine Festival
March 5 - Apr. 24, various times Nosh on sensational culinary delights and explore an expanded selection of more than 120 wines, craft brews and cocktails from around the world at Busch Gardens. Festival included with admission with food and beverage purchased separately. buschgardenstampa.com Moms,
Dads
Member Mornings
March 6, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Enjoy members-only access to the Glazer Children’s Museum in Tampa and take along other family members to join in the fun (up to five guests admitted at no charge; must include an adult). Guests can also take advantage of a membership special of 20 percent off regular membership cost. glazermuseum.org Everyone
Tampa Baby Expo
March 6, noon to 4 p.m. Learn, play and shop all things baby at the Convention Center in downtown Tampa. Meet up with experts and attend demos, workshops and seminars. Try out products and learn about services from vendors. Tickets are $15 single, $25 couples, and kids 12 and younger are free. Look for ad in Tampa Bay Parenting magazine for coupon savings. baby-events.com Moms, Dads
valspar Championship
March 7-13, various times Witness PGA Tour golf live at Innisbrook Golf Resort in Palm Harbor. Concert entrance is free with the purchase of a Thursday, March 10 tournament ticket ($39). For tickets and schedule information, visit valsparchampionship.com. 8 & Older
parents Night out at Great Explorations
March 11, 6-10 p.m. Enjoy a night out by leaving the kids in good hands at Great Explorations Museum in St. Pete for a fun evening of play. Pizza, snacks and juice are included. Price is $25 members and $35 non-members with a $5 sibling discount. Pre-registration is required. greatex.org/programs/ parents-night-out 4-10
Day out with Thomas: The ready, Set, Go Tour 2016
March 11-13 and 18-20, various times Stop by the Florida Railroad Museum in Parrish to meet up with Thomas the Tank Engine when he rolls into town for The Ready, Set, Go Tour. Take a 25-minute ride with Thomas, meet Sir Topham Hatt and enjoy a day of Thomas & Friends themed activities. Tickets start at $19. dayoutwiththomas.com 2 & Older
Schwarzkopf Memorial Sporting Clays Classic March 12, 9 a.m. Sign up for this popular fundraiser hosted by Tampa Bay Sporting Clays in Land O’ Lakes and benefiting The
While great care was taken in compiling the calendar, it’s always best to phone ahead to confirm information.
Children’s Home. Participants enjoy a tasty breakfast, complimentary ammunition, a T-shirt, and full round of clays, followed by lunch and an awards ceremony. Registration is 7 a.m. childrenshome.org Moms, Dads
Saturday Kids Club - Floridiana
March 12, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Join the Tampa Bay History Center for a fun, interactive session for guardians and children to explore the Center’s exhibit gallery together. Club events take place the second Saturday monthly, and are free for members and included with paid admission. tampabayhistorycenter.org 6 & Older
FossilFest
March 12-13, various times Check out this prehistoric celebration featuring fossils, artifacts, gems, minerals, shells, workshops, exhibits and more at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa. For a small fee, kids also can explore a Fossil Mine to uncover prehistoric fossils donated by club members. For ticket and workshop information, go to tampabayfossilclub.com. Everyone
Conference on Child, Adolescent and Young Adult Behavioral Health
March 13-16, various times Attend this yearly event at the Hilton Tampa Downtown that brings together more than 500 participants sharing dialogue about important issues related to the health, education and welfare of children and young adults. For a schedule and presenter list, go to cmhconference. com. Moms, Dads
School's out Camps at Great Explorations
March 14 and 21-25, 7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Sign up your Pinellas students for camp at Great Explorations in St. Pete during school closings and spring break this month. On Mar. 14, campers get to be treasure hunters and create some of their own. Guests will learn all about Australia. Camps are $35 per day for members and $40 non-members. greatex.org 4-9
Spring Break Camp Connect
March 14-18, various times Kids can spend Spring Break at the Glazer in Tampa and take part in fun activities, arts and crafts centered on a daily theme. Morning and afternoon camps are available. glazermuseum.org 4-9
Spring Break Camps at Tampa's Lowry park Zoo
March 14-18 and 21-25, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Enroll the kids in a fun, educational five-day camp over the school break hosted by the Zoo. A typical day at camp may include zoo hikes, classroom lessons with pictures and artifacts, animal shows and feedings, arts and crafts projects, animal encounters, keeper talks and more. Hillsborough break runs March 14-18, and Pinellas and Pasco breaks over March 21-25. lowryparkzoo.com. 5-13
Cirque du Soleil brings its latest global tour to Amalie Arena in Tampa. Tickets start at $40. amaliearena.com
8 & Older
Bark in the park
March 19, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Show your support for our four-legged friends as part of this annual Humane Society of Tampa Bay fundraiser at Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park. Event includes a onemile walk, live music, food trucks, vendors, pet costume contests and a doggy fun zone. barkintheparktampa. com Everyone
New York Yankees Luncheon
March 22, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Reserve your seat at this popular annual meet-up of Yankees fans, players and supporters of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay hosted by the Tampa Convention Center. bgctampa.org. Moms, Dads
Wild Card Day at the Glazer
March 1, 6:30-7:30 a.m. Meet with other parents of special needs kids as part of this monthly parent-to-parent support group hosted by All Children’s Hospital Child Development and Rehabilitation Center in St. Petersburg. RSVP at 727-7672885. allkids.org Moms, Dads
online Training: Addressing Feeding Issues
March 1, 6-7 p.m. Get helpful strategies for addressing feeding issues through this online seminar offered through the USF Center for Autism and Related Disabilities in Tampa. Guests can learn how to introduce new foods and expand their child’s food choices. usf.adobeconnect. com/_a825389370/card_ect. Moms, Dads
Free Homeschool Social Skills Group
March 23 Stop by the Glazer Children’s Museum in downtown Tampa for a day of surprises. Guests will be greeted to a special unannounced program that only visitors who pop in that day will get to experience. glazermuseum. org Everyone
March 3 and 17, 11 a.m. - noon Register the kids grades 2-5 in this free, interactive weekly social skills group with Hammond Psychology. Sign up online or call 813-567-3253. hammondpsychology.com 7-10
Evening Tide Talks at Florida Aquarium
March 9, 7-8 p.m. Take part in a group designed for parents and caregivers of loved ones with autism that meets the second Wednesday of each month at Medical Center of Trinity. Register online at medicalcentertrinity.com or call 727-824-5630. Walk-ins are also welcome. Moms,
March 23, 5:45 p.m. Attend the latest installment of this free lecture series offered through The Florida Aquarium in Tampa. Mingle with other guests during a complimentary 5:45 p.m. reception in the Vinik Room. Stay for the 6:15 p.m. featured speaker. 813-273-4015, flaquarium.org 12 &
Older
Women of Distinction
March 29 Be a part of this annual benefit event for the Girl Scouts of West Central Florida at Hilton Tampa Downtown. Luncheon honors local women serving as positive role models and leaders for today’s young girls. This year’s keynote speaker is Leeza Gibbons. Tickets are $75. gswcf.org Moms, Dads
Annual Summer Splash
April 9, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Meet face to face with the best sources of summer day camps and sleepover camps in Tampa Bay at this annual Tampa Bay Parenting event hosted by MOSI in Tampa. Day includes live entertainment, workshops, kids’ activities, health and wellness resources, and giveaways every half hour. First 150 kids get a goodie bag. Cost is $5 per person and includes entry to event and museum. summersplashtampabay.com Everyone
Autism Support Group
Dads
Special Needs Screening Zootopia
March 12, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. See a special showing of Disney’s latest animated feature in a sensory-friendly environment at Studio Movie Grill at Tampa’s University Mall. Screenings feature low sound and lights. Adults are $6, and kids and siblings are free. Rated PG. studiomoviegrill.com 8
& Older
Great Connections
March 13, 10 a.m. - noon Enjoy the various exhibits at Great Explorations Children’s Museum with other special needs families as part of this sensory-friendly event while museum is closed to the public. Morning will include light snacks, an Easter egg hunt, Easter Bunny photos, and more. greatex.org 6 & Older
Sunshine Sunday
March 20, 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Stroll the exhibits and displays at Glazer Children’s Museum with lights and sounds lowered and special programming available for those with special needs to enjoy the museum exclusively. Free for members and $5 nonmembers. glazermuseum.org Everyone
Sensory Storytime at Main
Toruk - The First Flight by Cirque du Soleil
March 17-20, various times Experience a riveting fusion of cutting-edge visuals, puppetry and stagecraft buoyed by a soaring score as
Family Support Group
spECIAL NEEDS
March 20, 2-3 p.m. Stop by the Main Library in Clearwater for a story designed for children and teens on the autism spectrum or those sensitive to sensory overload. Parental or caregiver attendance is required. 727-562-4970. 4 &
Older
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march Events their talents upon the sidewalks and streets as part of this annual art event. Enjoy live entertainment and vote on your favorite drawing for the People’s Choice Award. Free. bloomnchalkfest.com Everyone
vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike
Through March 20, various times Catch this parody of the celebrated playwright Anton Chekov before it leaves this month as Jobsite Theater performs a send-up of his works in its latest production in the Shimberg Playhouse at Straz Center in Tampa. Tickets are $28. jobsitetheater.org Moms, Dads
Murder for Two
Art Forever Young: A retrospective
Through March 27, various times See Russell Young’s artistic expression of American counter culture in this current exhibit set to close this month at the Polk Museum of Art in Lakeland. Witness one artist’s view of what it is to be an American in the 21st century. polkmuseumofart.org Everyone
Disney and Dali: Architects of the Imagination Through June 12, various times Learn about an unlikely friendship between two visionaries in this current multi-media exhibition on display at The Dali in St. Petersburg. See the relationship unfold between Walt Disney and Salvador Dali through an assortment of original paintings, story sketches, correspondence, photos, film, audio and more. thedali.org 8 & Older
Gasparilla Festival of the Arts
March 5-6, various times View a diverse mix of art at this popular downtown Tampa event at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. Festival features a variety of art media, live entertainment and a children’s art activity area. Free. gasparillaarts.com
Everyone
Dilly Dally with Dali
March 5, 12, 19 and 26 11:45 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Bring the kids to The Dali to tap into their inner artist as they explore the creative world through games, puzzles and arts and crafts activities. Families are encouraged to stay and interact. Free. thedali.org 5-12
Sundays at the Morean
March 6, 13 and 20, 1-3 p.m. Families can spend the afternoon creating art together at the Morean Center for Clay as part of this weekly art event at the St. Petersburg venue. Free admission. moreanartscenter.org/center-for-clay/ Everyone
Lakeland Craft Festival
March 12-13, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Browse original handmade crafts, unique functional art and affordable gift items at this third annual juried art event held over two days at Lakeside Village in Lakeland. Explore exhibits across a spectrum of media including photography, pottery, leather, stained glass and more. Free admission. artfestival.com Everyone
film National park Adventures at MoSI All Month, various times Catch this latest awe-inspiring film documenting the ultimate off-trail adventure through America’s top National Parks now showing at Tampa’s MOSI IMAX. Join a world-class mountaineer, an adventure photographer and an artist as they bike, hike and climb across beautiful places. mosi.org 8 & Older
Zootopia
Opens March 4 Meet up with a sly fox and up and coming bunny cop who must join forces to expose a conspiracy among a unique world populated by anthropomorphic animals. Disney’s latest animated film features the voice talents of Idris Elba, Jason Bateman and Ginnifer Goodwin. Rated PG. See local listings for showtimes. 8 & Older
Girls Night: The Musical
March 2, 7:30 p.m. Grab your girlfriends, sisters and friends for a touching and hilarious Off-Broadway hit when it returns to The Palladium Theater in St. Petersburg, as part of the Mahaffey on the Move series. The song-filled comedy takes audiences on a journey into the lives of a quintet of female friends. Tickets are $35.50-$55.50. mahaffeyonthemove.com. Girls Night Out
Inherit the Wind
March 10-27, various times See one of the great edge-of-your-seat American dramas loosely based on the real-life Scopes Monkey Trial when it comes to Stageworks Theatre in Tampa in partnership with Tampa Rep. Tickets start at $30. stageworkstheatre.org Teen & Older
The Divergent Series: Allegiant
La Traviata
OpensMarch 18 See the latest installment of this sci-fi adventure as Beatrice Prior and Tobias Eaton venture outside the fence of the world they live in and find themselves in the clutches of a mysterious organization. Check area theaters for tickets and movie times. 12 & Older
March 11-13, various times Get swept away by Verdi’s soaring score of this iconic opera that tells the tale of captivating courtesan Violetta Valery and her ultimate sacrifice when it fills Carol Morsani Hall at the Straz Center in Tampa. Tickets are $49.50-$99.50. strazcenter.org Moms, Dads
My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2
Sondheim on Sondheim
OpensMarch 25 Revisit Toula and Ian as they cope with marital struggles, a troubling teen and another Greek wedding in this sequel to the successful romantic comedy. Rated PG-13. See local listings for showtimes. Date Night,
Girls Night Out
Hero-quest
Available March 29 Discover the hero within as an inspirational animated journey based on the book Savva: Heart of the Warrior arrives on DVD. Film features an all-star cast of voice talents including Sharon Stone, Milla Jovovich, Whoopi Goldberg and Joe Pesci. Running time, 85 minutes. $14.83. 8 & Older
Bloom N Chalk Fest Chalk Art Festival
March 12 - Apr. 10, various times Watch this revolutionary, biographical revue onstage at freeFall Theatre in St. Pete, featuring state-of-theart video to tell the story through the words and music of a talented composer regarded by many as one of the greatest contributors to the American musical. freefalltheatre.com. Moms, Dads
4000 Miles
March 16-20, 23-27, 30-31 and Apr. 1-3, 6-10 Meet 21-year-old Leo, who after suffering a major loss while on a cross-country bike trip, seeks solace from his feisty 91-year-old grandmother Vera in her West Village apartment in this latest production at American Stage in St. Petersburg. Witness two unlikely roommates as they interact and frustrate while helping each other. americanstage.org. Moms, Dads
Latin Nights
March 19-20, various times Walk along Main Street in downtown Safety Harbor and view artists from around the world at work showcasing
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March 1- May 10, various times Everyone is a suspect in this hilarious musical murder mystery with a twist opening this month in the Jaeb Theater at Tampa’s Straz Center. In this zany musical, madcap 90-minute whodunit, one actor investigates the crime and the other plays all of the suspects. Tickets are $40. strazcenter.org Moms, Dads
t h e at e r & d a n c e TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
March 24, 9 p.m. - 1 a.m. Fuse Latin-inspired food and dancing into a fun evening at Maestro’s Restaurant in downtown Tampa. Sample tapas and drink specials while moving to the rhythms of a live salsa band and DJ. Tickets are $15. strazcenter. org Girls Night Out, Date Night
Relive the epic sounds of the legendary Led Zeppelin as this Philadelphia-based group delivers the essence of the classic rock group’s recorded music with highenergy, heart-thumping intensity at Tampa Theatre. The 2+ hour set spans the British supergroup’s entire career. Tickets are $38-$43. tampatheatre.org 12 & Older
music & comedy Josh Groban
March 1, 7:30 p.m. Hear the crisp, powerful vocals of this talented singer when he makes his debut at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. Tickets start at $95. Check for current availability at 727-791-7400. rutheckerdhall.com 8 &
Older
Disney Fantasia Live in Concert
March 6, 7 p.m. Get swept away by the soaring scores from two classic Disney animated feature films, Fantasia and Fantasia 2000, when the Czech National Symphony Orchestra led by conductor Ted Sperling perform at The Mahaffey Theater. Music is accompanied by high-definition scenes. Tickets are $39-$69. themahaffey.com 8 &
Older
Blast Friday Concert Series: Atlanta rhythm Section
March 25, 5:30-10 p.m. Toast with friends to the weekend and take in an outdoor concert on the last Friday of the month in downtown Clearwater’s Cleveland Street District. This month, the classic rock band brings its original blend of rock, rhythm and blues, and folk to the stage, performing some of their biggest hits, including “Imaginary Lover” and “So Into You.” Free. blastfridayclearwater.com 12
Adam Lambert
March 14, 8 p.m. The multi-platinum-selling recording artist and former American Idol finalist arrives at Ruth Eckerd Hall, following his recent world tour fronting the legendary rock band Queen. Lambert brings his biggest hits including “Whataya Want From Me” and “For Your Entertainment.” Tickets are $40-$125. rutheckerdhall. com 12 & Older
Soulshine Music presents: Get the Led out March 20, 7:30 p.m.
Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt
J.B. Smoove
Spring Fair at Shops at Wiregrass
March 26, 8 p.m. Laugh out loud to the unique comedy styling of the actor/stand-up comedian (“Curb Your Enthusiasm,” “Last Comic Standing”) when he visits The Palladium in St. Petersburg. Tickets are $39 and $49 and are available from The Mahaffey Theater at 727-893-7832. mypalladium.org Moms, Dads
March 23-Apr. 3 Plan a day at Shops at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel for rides, games, and other family fun at this popular spring event. shopsatwiregrass.com Everyone
Northdale Spring Egg Hunt
March 26 Rev up the kids to search for eggs to redeem for candy and prizes at this annual neighborhood tradition held in Northdale Park in Tampa. A free drawing is held for baskets donated by the community. northdale.org 2-10
Egg Hunt at the Glazer
Gasparilla Music Festival
March 13, 8 p.m. Experience the world music phenomenon when it takes to the road for its first ever North American tour and visits the Straz Center in Tampa. Hear from the reigning queen of Haitian songs Emeline Michel, Rio’s innovative samba masters Casuarina, Jamaica’s one-stringed guitar virtuoso Brushy One-String, and more. Tickets start at $35. strazcenter.org Everyone
Everyone
& Older
March 6, 7:30 p.m. Catch this trio of Italian pop opera powerhouses when they bring their captivating harmonies to Carol Morsani Hall at Tampa’s Straz Center. Tickets are $49.50-$89.50. strazcenter.org Date Night, Girls Night Out
globalFEST on the road - Creole Carnival
March 19, noon - 3 p.m. Hunt for colorful eggs under the water’s surface at the Southwest Pool in Largo. Parents are invited to help retrieve eggs for a chance to win prizes and must be in the water with their child under age 6 or with those unable to tread water for 30 seconds. Participants should bring a mesh bag to collect eggs. Cost is $3 with membership card; $5 without card. 727-518-3126
March 19, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Grab a flashlight and basket to hunt for eggs under the night sky at Dunedin’s MLK Jr. Recreation Center. Kids can take part in games, crafts and hot dog picnic with free children’s meals and $2 adult meals. Cost: $8 through March 16; $12 after. 727-738-2920 4-10
Il volo
March 12-13, various times Erykah Badu headlines this year’s festivities featuring over 50 bands on five stages for two days of live entertainment along downtown Tampa’s Riverwalk. This year’s lineup reflects an eclectic array of artists across musical styles. gasparillamusic.com. Everyone
underwater Egg Hunt
easter & spring events
March 26, 8-10 a.m. Spend the morning ushering enthusiastic egg hunters as they explore the Glazer Children’s Museum in downtown Tampa. Enjoy light refreshments, a special toddler area for kids 3 and younger and special activities for the entire family. Admission includes all-day play at the museum; event is free for museum members with reservation. glazermuseum.org Everyone
Breakfast with Bunny at Clearwater Y
Beta Sigma phi Easter Egg Hunt
Egg-Cellent Egg-Stravaganza
Annual Dade City Spring Egg Hunt
March 12, 9 a.m. Stop by the Clearwater YMCA for a visit with the Easter Bunny and tasty treats from IHOP. Morning includes an egg hunt, games and photos with the hare of the hour. Cost is $3 per family. suncoastymca.org Everyone
March 18, 11 a.m. Enjoy an Easter-filled morning at Largo Public Library as part of this fun program featuring stories, songs, crafts and a visit from a special bunny guest. Register in the children’s department. Free. 727-587-6715 3-5
Spring Carnival and Easter Egg Hunt
March 19, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Bring the whole family for a day of fun games and Easter activities at Oak Grove United Methodist Church in Tampa. Activities include game booths, a bounce house, face painting, mini golf, free photo booth with the Easter Bunny and an egg hunt. Free admission. 813-935-4471
Everyone
March 26, 9 a.m. Come out to England Brothers Park in Pinellas Park for a great family event hosted by Beta Sigma Phi. Children are divided into age groups as they set out to search for hidden eggs. Free admission. For more information, call 727-541-0895 Everyone
March 26, 10-11 a.m. Pack up the kids and the Easter baskets, and head to the meeting room at Hugh Embry Library in Dade City for a candy egg hunt and other Easter fun. Morning includes face painting, balloon animals and holiday crafts. Free. 352-567-3576 2-10
Free Community Easter Egg Hunt March 26, 11 a.m., noon and 1 p.m. Get ready for a day of kids’ activities and games hosted by Victorious Life Church at The Grove in the field across from Cobb Theaters. Day includes bounce houses, food truck fare and free photos with the Easter Bunny. Three egg hunts are scheduled, including one for children with special needs in a designated area. Free admission. 813-973-2230 Everyone
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Directory
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com
Earth is 71% water. Your kids are 100% curious. Working Together to be Water Smart The Children’s Board of Hillsborough County is sponsoring FREE mobile swim lessons, water safety education and CPR courses in Hillsborough County. Water safety is a community-wide concern. If your community pool or neighborhood association is interested in hosting this program please contact Ginger Upshaw at ginger.upshaw@tampaymca.org. Mobile Swim
Water Safety
CPR
The swim lesson portion of the program will serve children ages 3-14 years old.
Water safety education for children covers topics such as basic pool rules, boating safety, swimming in pairs, and even the importance of sunscreen.
We offer both certification and hands only classes.
Keeping Children Safe Around Water.
In partnership with:
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oo h c s l ’ s n e out h W
GO WORLDS AWAY at MOSI
Hands-on S.T.E.A.M. spring break and summer camps for preschoolers to high schoolers. Only MOSI offers campers the chance to travel through time and space over school break. Best of all, kids can expand their minds, amplify imaginations and build lasting friendships—all while having a real blast!
Space is limited, so suit them up now at MOSI.org.
Register before April 1 and receive 15% off your camp registration fee. No other discounts apply.
Spring Break Camps: March 14–25 | Summer Camps: June 13–August 12
MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & INDUSTRY | 4801 E. FOWLER AVE., TAMPA, FL 33617 | 813-987-6000
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BAY PARENTING • MAR. 2016 • TBParenting.com MOSI is a TAMPA 501(c)(3) non-profit, community-based institution and a leader in S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) education dedicated to making a difference in people’s lives by making science real.