May 2019

tampabayparenting.com

MAY 2019

OUR FAVORITE

MOMFLUENCERS WHO TO FOLLOW RIGHT NOW

BABY

PRODUCTS WHAT'S TRENDING IN 2020

OH, EAR!

fighting swimmer's ear this summer

PAGE 19

MOMFLUENCER DIANA BLINKHORN SHARES HER FAMILY'S FAVORITE NEW TREATS AT WALT DISNEY WORLD

PAGE 26

Photo taken in front of the purple wall at entrance to Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom.

Follow the purple wall @purplewallphotos

MAY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

GET READY FOR SUMMER! YOUR GUIDE TO AREA CAMPS

1

Q:

When should your child see the dentist?... Your child's first dental visit should

occur as soon as the first tooth comes in!

Mia Kwon DMD "We were all pediatric dental patients at one time or another. I love guiding this very special patient group to make healthy dental choices and provide excellent care."

(727) 350-3336 Pinellas

(813) 889-0780 South Tampa/ Town & Counrty

Randy Feldman DDS MS "An orthodontist’s experience and expertise can make all the difference in your smile and your world."

(727) 442-6098 Pinellas North Tampa South Tampa 2

Wesley Chapel Town & Country

TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

(813) 968-2483

2019

South Tampa/Carollwood Clearwater Seminole

St. Petersburg Bradenton

BlueWaveOrtho.com KidsSmiles.com

ONE SIZE DOESN’T FIT SMALL.

Emergency Care for Kids.

Kids aren’t the same size as grown ups, so we don’t use adult-sized instruments in our pediatric ERs. Everything comes in a range of sizes to treat the smallest patient to the biggest one. Based on your child’s weight and size, we use the blood pressure cuff that’s the right fit for the most accurate reading, or ventilation masks and bags to provide

the correct amount of air for their lungs. And we always make sure that medications are measured appropriately. It’s important for your child to be treated someplace that’s equipped to meet their unique needs. Learn how the right size care can make a difference in your child’s ER experience: PediERChildSize.org

PEDIATRIC ER LOCATIONS Mease Countryside Hospital • St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital • St. Joseph’s Hospital-South

19-733130-0419

MAY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

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CONTENTS

10 // Salvation Army Puts the Ring in Community Service Ways your family can help the local non-profit 16 // The Family’s Anchor Former CBS News anchor Maggie Rodriguez on life after the news and exploring her family’s new home in Tampa Bay 18 // Mom on a Mission Against Heat Stroke Michelle Pratt, a certified car seat safety technician, shares ways to keep your kids safe from overheating in a hot car 19 // MOMfluencers You Need to Follow Discover some of our favorite local social media influencers 22 // Baby Product Trends in 2020 Our favorite baby items from the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association Built for Baby Show 24 // Reinventing Roles Three moms share their journey into part-time world as they seek work-life balance 28 // Moms to KNOW Julie Tingley, founder of the women’s organization KNOW Tampa showcases two moms who are finding success outside and inside the home

cover story

Diana Blinkhorn and MOMfluencer @MrsBlinks shares her family's favorite Disney treats and hidden surprises

every month

74 // Summer at the Museum Ways your child can continue learning all summer long at Glazer Children’s Museum

89 // MAY TOP PICKS OUR FAVORITE FAMILY-FRIENDLY EVENTS 92 // THIS MONTH ONLINE TAMPABAYPARENTING.COM

36 SUMMER

YOUR GUIDE TO

77 // College Savings Plans Options to plan ahead for your child’s future

22

78 // Oh, Ear! Swimmer’s Ear symptoms and fixes: Expert advice from an Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist

30

80 // Drowning Prevention Top Priority in Tampa Bay The YMCA’s Water Safety Programs are making a difference; see how your child can benefit

CAMPS IN TAMPA BAY

83 // Red Light Therapy How Joovv Light Therapy may help alleviate a variety of problems, from joint pain to skin problems

AND BEYOND

4

TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

32 // Nutrition for Mom Newly-launched Wildscape brings quick-to-prepare, healthy meals to your local Publix!

71 // Library Arts Take advantage of arts, humanities and cultural learning at your local library

12 // THE MAY INSIDE SCOOP WHAT'S NEW, WHAT WE LOVE AND MORE

feature

30 // Diaper Bank Growing in Tampa Bay Diaper need affects 1 in 3 families in the United States. How you can help The Junior League of Tampa’s Diaper Bank change that statistic

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Insist On The Right Size Care.

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

Thomas M. Andrews, MD

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

Wade R. Cressman, MD

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

Rose S. Trowbridge, MD

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

Insist on the right size care.

Kathleen M. Wasylik, MD

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

MOTHER'S DAY 2019

#MothersDayinTPA CREATIVE DIRECTOR AND EDITORIAL MANAGER Laura Byrne ASSOCIATE EDITOR Anu Varma Panchal EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Sarah Stoulil CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Anu Varma Panchal Laura Byrne Tara Payor, PhD Maggie Rodriguez Michelle Pratt Diana Blinkhorn Julie Tingley Caroline Foss Rhonda Richardson, MS Glazer writer Graham Rigby Kathleen M. Wasylik, MD Lalita Llerena CALENDAR Sarah Stoulil ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Ralf Gonzalez Craig Collins LAYOUT & DESIGN Nicole Barolo of Page Four Creative CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Darlene Barlows Photography Diana Blinkhorn BOOKKEEPING Employee of the Month, LLC TAMPA BAY PARENTING MAGAZINE 320 W. Kennedy Blvd. Ste. 220 Tampa, Florida 33606 Phone 813-949-4400 Fax 813-315-6688 info@tbparenting.com editor@tbparenting.com BECOME A FAN tampabayparentingmagazine @tampabayparenting @TBParenting

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.

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TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

This month we're sharing our wishes and advice to fellow mamas in celebration of our Mother's Day issue

MY WISH FOR YOU MAMA

is to find peace in knowing that you are a great mom. Try not to compare yourself to others. Every mother, every family, every child is different. There’s truth to that saying…the days are long, the years are short. Daily, I remind myself that one day I’ll miss these days. I treasure every wild and crazy moment.

TARA PAYOR, writer and mom of 2 Find joy in the simple things Tampa Bay offers our families.

From parks to beaches to fruit and veggie farms, what matters is cultivating a loved for shared experiences with one another--and that doesn't have to happen in a theme park. + Take care of yourself in the ways that make sense for you: it might be barre for me and running for my best friend--just start. Above all, don't ever feel so ashamed by what you're experiencing that you isolate yourself. Lean into your mom friends for support because they are surely glad to hold you up.

LAURA BYRNE, creative director and mom of 2

ANU VARMA PANCHAL, writer and mom of 2

My wish for you is that you get the joy of experiencing new places with your children. Although Tampa International Airport does offer some pretty awesome direct flight destinations, you don't have to go far to make new discoveries.

I still haven't made it to Sunken Gardens or checked out those mermaids! The best part is the memories you'll make together that will serve as a touchstone for an entire period in your life. My best fellow mom advice? Take it from someone who has an 8th-grader: Those little-kid years are like climbing a roller coaster. Though the view is nice and you're enjoying the anticipation, everything seems to take forever. This part? When I'm looking at four precious years untill college? It's going down so fast, I barely have time to enjoy it.

Savor the slow bits. You'll long for them one day.

NICOLE BAROLO, designer and mom of 2

Find the funny and remember to laugh. I get caught up in the seriousness of momming, so lately I've been binging on all things LOL. Ali Wong's Netflix comedy special, Baby Cobra had me rolling on the floor. I just finished the audiobook written and narrated by Amy Pohler, "Yes, please," that was hilarious. Tina Fey's"Bossypants" is also a must-read.

DARLENE BARLOWS, photographer and mom of 1

MY WISH FOR TAMPA MOMS IS TO HUG MORE, LAUGH MORE AND PLAY MORE!

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10710 State Road 54 Suite 108 Trinity, FL 34655 MAY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

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Meet our contributors

thank you advertisers and sponsors

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

ANU VARMA PANCHAL Anu Varma Panchal has written and edited for area publications for nearly 20 years. She’s ac­t ive on her

Julie Tingley is an 8-year

children’s PTA boards, loves

Tampa transplant who has

theatre, concerts, the local

found her way through

brewery scene and travel,

numerous professional and

and spends way too much

parenting transitions by

time schlepping her 11 and

maintaining focus on her

14-year-olds around in her

daily inspirations: Ella, 5,

Graham Rigby, CFP® is a financial advisor at Rigby

minivan. She never leaves

and Kate, 2. With a vision

Wealth Management of Raymond James, which has

home without her library

of a better future for her

50 combined years of investment experience. Prior

card. You can find her at

girls, she has introduced

to joining the team, Graham worked at the Raymond

youreditingsolutions.com.

the KNOW Book + Tribe, a

James international headquarters in St. Petersburg as an

women’s publication and

education savings specialist.

CAROLINE FOSS TARA PAYOR, PH.D.

GRAHAM RIGBY, CFP®

community, to Tampa Bay.

Caroline Foss is a freelance writer and creative director in South Tampa with a background in creating branding and content for brands big and small.

More importantly, she's the proud wife of a firefighter and mother to two wild boys who keep her very,

Tara Payor, Ph.D. has a

very busy.

JULIE TINGLEY

JENNIFER HODGES

CHERYL WOLFE

doctorate in Curriculum

Jennifer Hodges is the

Cheryl Wolfe is an

and Instruction. She is a

Supervisory Librarian in

administrative librarian

contributing faculty member

Community Engagement

with the Tampa-

for Walden University,

for Tampa-Hillsborough

Hillsborough County

where she guides doctoral

Emily Woods Mejia oversees

County Public Library. She

Public Library. She is

students through their

Camp Imagination as the

lives in Land O' Lakes with

passionate about Florida

dissertations. She is also

Special Events and Programs

her husband James, a web

libraries and helping the

a language arts educator.

Manager at the Glazer

application developer, and

community achieve their

Reach her at

Children’s Museum. She

her three children. Jennifer

goals. Cheryl also loves

tpayor@gmail.com.

previously taught elementary

and her family love theatre/

to coach her daughter’s

school in Florida and California.

Broadway, listening to

soccer team and visit art

audiobooks and singing all

museums with her family.

EMILY WOODS MEJIA

20,520 words to "Hamilton: An American Musical."

Story idea?

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

LALITA LLERENA As the communications director, Lalita Llerena oversees all internal and external communications for the Tampa YMCA. Before starting her public relations career, Lalita managed a 24-hour local TV news team as an executive producer. Prior to her nine years in the Tampa/St. Petersburg market, Lalita produced, reported and anchored for TV and radio outlets in Orlando and Gainesville. She lives in Riverview with her husband, Danny, and their

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daughter, Daniella, and son, Logan.

TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

MAY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

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RING IN TO HELP OUT

Tampa's Salvation Army puts the ring in community service

By Tara Payor, Ph.D.

s summer inches closer, there will hopefully be more open spaces on the family calendar. Volunteering with local organizations is a rewarding way to utilize additional time.

Captain Andy Miller, who shares the Area Commander duties with his wife, Abby, is a sixth generation officer of the Salvation Army, which is a Christian organization.

“I’ve known things about my job since I was a toddler,” says Miller. The Salvation Army is a family affair for the Millers who, with their three sons (11, 9, and 7), were sent here from Atlanta. Miller explains, “The Salvation Army’s mission is preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ and working against discrimination.” Extending across 131 countries, mission statements are adapted for each community’s needs.

Miller says his teams are out in the bay area every day, carrying out the work needed to help “people get from the street to their feet.

It’s how we get them out of homelessness.”

The organization requires that rehabilitation program participants save 80 percent of their income and utilizes an income verification process for accountability. “Residents are assigned case managers—whom we view as housing coaches because they pull performance out of residents. They help residents understand what they need to do with both their savings and personal capacity.”

The Salvation Army is the bay area’s only emergency shelter. When a single person has no other place to go, Salvation Army is available. Emergency shelters serve various populations, including patients discharged from the hospital, human trafficking victims and veterans. Grants from organizations like Junior League of Tampa help fund this work. On Super Bowl Sunday, Captain Miller picked up shelter residents and treated them to a viewing party. Residents are able to enjoy things like free music lessons, which offer enriching experiences as they transition into drug and alcohol free lives.

The Salvation Army has daily opportunities to help with feeding, and Miller says it takes five to 10 people to serve 120. The organization’s greatest need, however, is bell ringing during November and December,

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TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

which is how they make 75 percent of their income. One hour of ringing helps the Salvation Army provide housing.

“When you’re out ringing, someone will share how the Salvation Army helped when they had nowhere to go,” says Director of Communications, Ashley Ramsey. The Register to Ring website allows interested bell ringers to register by zip code— there are 24,000 slots to cover.

Other opportunities for volunteering include administrative work at Salvation Army offices as well as working in the warehouse for the Angel Tree Program. The latter, in partnership with ABC News, ensures that more than 2,000 children receive Christmas gifts.

Salvation Army needs volunteers on distribution day, which gives volunteers the opportunity to go shopping with recipients. “It’s a great opportunity for families,” Ramsey says. Kids have to at least 8 to volunteer and must be accompanied by a parent until they are 16. It’s a good option for high school students looking for fulfilling ways to satisfy volunteer hour requirements.

The Salvation Army is thankful for locals who demonstrate ongoing commitment to the organization’s mission.

These include Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla, Rotary Club’s downtown chapter, Optimist Club, the Dungy family, and Joel Madden.

REGISTER TO RING: registertoring.com Contact Carol Joiner, Salvation Army Volunteer Coordinator, for more information on volunteer opportunities.

(813) 226-0914; carol.joiner@uss. salvationarmy.org

Tony Dungy and family serve as bell ringers.

Make his eyes Ready to LEARN, Ready to PLAY, Ready to SUCCEED! 1 in 4 School Aged Children

have a vision problem

Free Vision Screenings

for children at Hillsborough County preschools Funding generously provided by:

Visit our website at: www.preservevisionflorida.org

[ THE INSIDE SCOOP ]

MAY

WHAT'S NEW, OUR FAVORITE THINGS AND MORE

MAY IS

M ELANOMA AWAR ENES S MONTH

PROTECT YOUR SKIN MAMA Say No to Toxins with Beautycounter

ORGANIC BABY SKINCARE LINE TO TRY: MADE OF

MANATEES ARE BACK AT ZOOTAMPA ZooTampa recently unveiled the renovated

MADE OF touts

Manatee Critical Care Center, which also saw

itself as the first

a replacement of the aging water filtration

and only brand

system.

on the market to

Four rescued manatees now call Manatee

Did you know many sunscreens

create a full line

Mangrove home and you can take a walk

contain chemical filters that could

of NSF-Certified

through the exhibit and meet the manatees up

harm you or your loved ones? Read

Organic made-

close. Get your cameras ready, because there

the label and look for chemical fillers

in-the-USA

are plenty of opportunities for a photo—just

to avoid, which include oxybenzone,

baby personal

watch out for the photobombing turtles!

avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene,

care products. We love this line, especially

zootampa.org

homosalate and octinoxate. Inactive

the diapers that are made without irritants

ingredients such as fragrance/parfum,

like chlorine and dyes. MADE OF offers a

parabens and PEG compounds aren't

subscription service, and you can even order

good for us either. The preservative

samples to try before you buy the full-size!

methylisothiazolinone was actually

madeof.com

By Courtney Augey

deemed the "allergen of the year" in 2013. If your children have sensitivities to sunscreen, consider the fact that

FINAL DAYS ON THE PIGEON!

94 sunscreen labels contained this

It’s the last few weeks to see The Pigeon Comes to

ingredient.

Tampa! A Mo Willems exhibit at Glazer Children’s

When choosing a sunscreen, look

Museum. The Pigeon is flying out of Tampa Bay after

for mineral sunscreens—zinc oxide

May 12, so don’t

and/or titanium dioxide. Avoid

miss your chance

chemical UV filter sunscreens because

to experience the

some studies show that they may

beloved children’s

mimic hormones; they are absorbed

books as they come

into the body and can be measured

to life in a hands-on

in blood, breast milk and urine

exhibit where your

samples. However, studies show that

kids can immerse

little (if any) zinc or titanium particles

themselves in the

penetrate the skin to reach living

world of Pigeon, Piggie,

tissues.

Elephant and more on the second floor of the museum.

Our mission at BeautyCounter is to

Meet mom and baby, Heinz and Sriracha!

Heinz was rescued after a boat strike and baby Sriracha had to come along with her.

Fun story on how they got their names: The state gives rescued manatees a number and Heinz was number 57, hence--"Heinz!"

Sriracha was a natural fit for baby!

Glazermuseum.org

get safer products into the hands of everyone. Our sunscreen rubs in clear with no greasy residue and you can choose between mist, lotion and sun stick forms. Please reach out to your Beautycounter consultant or order at beautycounter.com/courtneyaughey.

BUSCH GARDENS SESAME DAYS

Celebrate Spring with Elmo, Rubber Duckie, Cookie Monster and the rest of your child’s favorite Sesame Street friends on Saturdays and Sundays in May through May 19. There will be dance parties, crafts and so much more! This special event is included with park admission.

DON'T MISS

OUT! 12

TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

If you haven’t registered online, time is running out for the FREE Preschool Card at Busch Gardens.

The last day to register your child who is 5 years old and younger is May 19, 2019. The Preschool Card gets your child in for FREE through the rest of this year at Busch Gardens and Adventure Island.

You MUST register online first to get a voucher you’ll redeem at the gate. BuschGardens.com

MAY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

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A FAMILY WATER ADVENTURE Trek along the shaded boardwalk to discover endangered Florida wildlife, then board a boat with the whole family for a journey along a flowing stream to the roar of a three story splashdown!

PAY FOR DAY, REST OF 2019 FREE!

PRESENTED BY

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TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

ZooTampa.org

#MomBoss

A CELEBRATION OF TAMPA BAY MOMS WHO ARE DREAMING BIG, MAKING MOVES, AND MAKING A DIFFERENCE The family's anchor

Mama on a mission

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Reinventing roles

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May 12

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Mother's Day is

MOM fluencers

Diaper bank

Moms to KNOW

PAGE 24 2020

PAGE 22

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Baby trends in

Good food for you, mama

Sweet treats at Walt Disney World

mama life in Tampa Bay MAY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

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MOTHER'S DAY 2019

The family's anchor A LIFE AFTER THE NEWSROOM FOR MAGGIE RODRIGUEZ

By Tara Payor, Ph.D. Photo by Darlene Barlows Photography at Hyde Park Village

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TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

efore becoming a mother, I envisioned easily leaving my children at daycare so that I could be an out-of-the-house, full-time-working mom. After bearing children, it became clear that, while I needed my professional role, I also needed to find the best blend of mothering and working. I was stunned by how skewed my before-children vision was and how stupendous I found mothering.

As parents, immersing ourselves in dialogue about complex topics can be difficult, and time for conversation is scarce.

I’m grateful for time spent with Maggie Rodriguez, former host of CBS’s “The Early Show,” who retired in 2010. Read about her experiences and perspectives on blending mothering and working.

Rodriguez’ television career started when she became a reporter for Univision in 1991.

By 2001, she was the main anchor of Miami’s CBS station and remained there until 2007 when she moved to New York City. In New York, she worked alongside Julie Chen and Harry Smith.

“I was at the pinnacle of my career,” Rodriguez says. “It fulfilled me completely.”

However, Rodriguez remembers her then 4-year-old daughter hugging her one morning and asking: “Mommy, can’t you be my nanny?” Daniella’s definition of mother was off, and it hit Rodriguez at the core: “She saw lover and nurturer as the nanny’s jobs.”

Ultimately, despite offers to host CBS Evening News’ weekend edition and contribute to other high-profile programs, resigning was easy. “I had no trouble walking away,” says Rodriguez. “Those opportunities, while fantastic, would take me further away from my family, and my desire was to be closer. It was a no-brainer.”

The day after resigning from CBS, Rodriguez took her daughter to school for the first time—something her early morning

B

work schedule never allowed. “She was so happy during that ride, and I could see the pride on her face as I walked her to the door.”

NEW ROUTINES

During her television career, Rodriguez’s family saw her for the first time each day by tuning in to her newscast. Now, Rodriguez, her husband Mike, and their two children (Daniella, 13, and Mikey, 8) live in Tampa, and she starts each morning exercising with her husband and getting the kids ready. “I don’t take these simple pleasures for granted,” she says.

With her previous schedule, early mornings often meant turning in for the night as her husband returned from work. Now, she picks the kids up from school, takes them to activities, and both prepares and eats dinner with the family.

Does she miss her career? Sure.

But she won’t consider another position unless it allows her to remain “all in” for her children.

“I may not work in journalism any more, but I’m still a journalist who craves and consumes news voraciously,” she says. Though family life is full, she also fills her bucket by sharing time with friends, volunteering with local charities, and writing. “I only feel gratitude for having been able to have a dream career and still be able to raise my children.”

SHARED VISION

Transitions like Rodriguez’s can breed resentment. Significant others must be intentional, through transparency and authenticity, in keeping resentment at bay. Resentment hasn’t crept into Rodriguez’ marriage—partly because she and her husband have a shared vision of what’s best for their family. They’re in step about the responsibility and privilege of being involved in their kids’ lives. They share a view of success, and it’s defined by closeness in marriage and happiness in children—not by salary. For Rodriguez, life’s meaning is found in moments she can now regularly share with her family: from her son detailing sports feats and jokes to her daughter opening up about the good and bad of middle school. Seemingly mundane moments for some parents are ones other parents long for. Sometimes, families need to shift perspective: Ordinary just might be extraordinary, and often, the ordinary is priceless.

PIE IN THE SKY

Adopting a mindset to find flowers among weeds doesn’t mean a person never has bad moments.

Rodriguez acknowledges that “mom errands” aren’t always as exciting as those from her news days. “I gave up a stimulating, lucrative, high profile job for a role that doesn’t pay the bills and is often thankless,” she admits. But she says that transitioning into stay-at-home-mom-life has given her the most meaningful rewards and deepest fulfillment to date.

Shifting from a dual to single income household entailed some adjustments.

Shifts in lifestyle haven’t been too drastic as the couple has always believed in living below their means, a philosophy that allowed a decision like her retirement.

The great Dolly Parton famously said, “Don’t get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life.” Create a shared family vision. Be authentic in the process. Be intentional in making the vision your life’s story.

MAY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

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mama on a mission

Follow Michelle Pratt on Instagram @Safeintheseat.

This mom of 2 shares great car seat safety tips and more.

Bay Area mom and certified car seat safety technician Michelle Pratt shares ways to keep kids safe in and around a hot car s parents, we’re often exhausted and juggling a million thoughts, so it’s easy to lose track of things—such as how long we’ve let a little one sit inside a hot car despite steadily rising temperatures outside.

With Florida ranked as the warmest state year-round, caretakers need to put their best foot forward to ensure our little ones stay safe as Florida gets back into the swing of its extra-long summer.

Prolonged heat exposure in a hot car can be extremely dangerous and even fatal. In 2018, 51 children suffered heatstrokes all around the United States. Understanding how easy it is to forget doesn’t make you a bad parent; in fact, the good news is that realizing it can happen to you is the best way of preventing it.

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Here are seven tips to help you keep your cool and ensure baby never gets left behind in the car:

1

LEAVE SOMETHING IN THE BACKSEAT THAT YOU ABSOLUTELY NEED TO LEAVE YOUR VEHICLE

3

PRACTICE USING THE “STUFFED ANIMAL SWAP METHOD”

This one is popular. Keep a stuffed animal in your child’s car seat when they’re not in the car. When they are, put the stuffed animal up in the front seat with you.

If you’re a visual person, a bright pink monkey may do just the trick.

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5

4

MAKE IT A HABIT TO CHECK YOUR ENTIRE CAR BEFORE HITTING THE “LOCK” BUTTON

Just take a quick walk around. It takes 10 seconds, max; you’ll be glad you did.

TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

PAY ATTENTION TO WHAT HAS YOUR ATTENTION— AND MAKE A SHIFT

Waiting at a red light on your way to daycare? Instead of checking your work email, try making the trip a fun experience for both you and baby. Sing, talk, play I-spy—anything that will engage them in the car. Think of every ride as a mini parentchild road trip; you’re bound to remember a child you can hear.

It’s especially easy to get distracted when you take turns in your drop-off routine. Once your child is dropped off, have their caretaker shoot you a quick text. Set a daily alarm on your phone so you can make sure you received it.

This could include anything from your purse/briefcase to your cell phone to your shoe (my personal favorite).

Choose an item in your daily routine that you cannot live without.

2

SET UP A TOUCH BASE WITH YOUR CHILD’S CARETAKER FOR ALL DROP-OFFS

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DON’T BE AFRAID TO USE TECHNOLOGY. THERE IS TRULY AN APP FOR EVERYTHING.

Try two crowd favorites to stay in the know: • The Backseat – created by an Arizona dad to keep forgetfulness away on your busiest days • Waze – a popular download that recently introduced Child Reminders to get your alert on.

7

ALWAYS KEEP YOUR CAR LOCKED TO MAKE SURE KIDDOS DON’T USE IT FOR HIDE-ANDSEEK Kids play, and we want to encourage exploration, but make sure they understand the car is not a place to play.

It’s easy—and potentially catastrophic—for a little one to lock himself in a hot car.

Lock your car after you get out, every time, just in case.

Bonus points: Keep those keys out of reach from 5-year-olds who think they can operate the keyless remote better than you can.

MOTHER'S DAY 2019

MOMfluencers

these local blogging and social media mamas have our attention Quirky, fun, warm and interesting--these blogging mamas are like that awesome best friend you'd love to have.

Read on to see why we fell in love with following them!

BRAMFAM WHO ARE THEY?

Bramty Juliette, a 23-year-old mom of three kids (4-year-old daughter and 4-month-old twins) is also known as the mom of the family channel, The Bramfam, on YouTube. With over 2.5 million subscribers across her two YouTube channels, Bramty has been featured on BuzzFeed News, Insider and USA Today. Showcasing her life in her family channel, Bramty embraces and isn't afraid to show the reality of being a young mom. Her sense of humor and openness to the conflicts she encounters in her life has captured the hearts of millions and keeps on attracting new viewers every day. Bramty Juliette is an inspiration to the new generation.

HOW WE ENDED UP BACK IN TAMPA

After being told the great news that we were going to have twins, we knew we needed to settle down after living in Los Angeles. Tampa has always had our hearts, so it was a no-brainer that this is where we were destined to be.

WHAT PEOPLE CAN EXPECT

We are definitely not your ordinary "social media family," so expect a positive, high-energized family that isn't afraid to show the reality of family drama, tons of laughter and endless love.

FIND THEM

INSTAGRAM

YOUTUBE

The Bramfam Bramty Juliette Penelope’s Toy Show

@Bramty, @Luisnestor, @Penelope, @Balcomeandlevy TWITTER

Bramty Juliette

JACLYN QUINONES

Natassja Prose of Prose & Company is a contributor to The Mommy Spot Tampa Bay

Crazy Life with Littles is a Tampa area lifestyle and

as well as the author of her

motherhood blog advocating for other busy moms and

family/mom blog where she

women. You can expect to find Jacki, the mom behind

writes about her adventures

the blog, sharing real life tips on work life, home life,

of being an outnumbered

navigating through parenthood with a full-time job and

mom in a house of boys while they find fun things for families to do all over town.

NATASSJA PROSE

@crazylifewithlittles crazylifewithlittles.com

@proseandcompany proseandcompany. blogspot.com

TURN TO PAGE 26 FOR MORE WITH DIANA BLINKHORN AND HER FAVORITE DISNEY TREATS

local area family travel adventures and ideas.

MICHELLE BREMER Michelle Bremer is the founder of Runway Translator Fashion

@mrsblinks

Styling; go-to fashion expert for WFLA's The Daytime Show; the

thegrayruby.com

style and beauty contributor for Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine; and the organizer of private group shopping 'Style Finder' Boutique Bus Tours! Michelle brings high fashion down to Earth

Diana Blinkhorn

@runwaytranslator @stylefindertours runwaytranslator.com

and makes shopping fun!

MAY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

19

MOTHER'S DAY 2019

MOMfluencers

these local blogging and social media mamas have our attention Sheriss Crosskey does not

She Just Glows inspires

Christina Campbell is

Mom to Zane and Nori Blair,

Yamel Belen is a mom of

believe that there is one

women to find joy in the

the "mom boss" behind

Brittany Abaijan escaped

five and also a pediatric

“right” way to be a mom.

parenting trenches. It's

The Mommy Spot Tampa

the cold weather of Chicago

Registered Nurse and Doula

Tampa Bay Moms Blog is

written by St. Pete mom-of-4

Bay, a website and events

when she met the love of

who owns and operates One

passionate about parenting,

Janie Porter, who spends

company for moms in

her life, Julio, and officially

Love Doula Services here

community and the Tampa

her days fighting through the

Tampa Bay. With her love

became a sunshine state

in Tampa. You can find her

Bay area, with a mission to

pressure to be thin, happy,

for all that encompasses

resident. Life is one big party

on her over on her personal

encourage local moms to get

have the perfect house and

motherhood (she has three

at the House of Hernández—

blog, Kurlycrown, where she

out in the community and

perfect life. "Love yourself.

kids), launching this local

if the clan is not at Disney,

aims to motivate mothers

try new things. This team

They need you to," is one

resource was a no-brainer.

they’re out splashing in a fun

in the areas of motherhood

of moms and social media

of the cornerstones of her

Now she's excited to launch

shaped float or planning an

and personal style while

influencers is passionate

message.

The Mommy Spot's national

event or holiday. Follow their

preaching self-care.

website!

adventures in travel, food

about giving parents relevant, timely and fun

and motherhood.

information about all things “mom” in Tampa Bay. Photo by Marisa Stone Photography

SHERISS CROSSKEY @tbmomsblog

JANIE PORTER

CHRISTINA CAMPBELL

@shejustglows

shejustglows.com

@themommyspot @mommyspottampabay

tampabay.citymomsblog.com

BRITTANY ABAJIAN

YAMEL BELEN @kurlycrown

kurlycrown.com

@stylemebritt_

stylemebritt.com

Nicole Taggart is a food and travel blogger always

NICOLE TAGGART @iamahoneybee

iamahoneybee.com

on a lookout for a great time. Busy with two kids and two Boston Terriers, she and her husband love to live life to the fullest, whether that means a great night in with some grilled steak and a big glass of wine, or a fun day at Disney.

Lorin Augeri blogs about life in sunny Tampa where her family loves to make great food and dress cute on occasion - all while

20

TRACY ALVES

@sunnychichome

sunnychichome.com

LORIN AUGERI

Sunny Chic Home is a lifestyle

themomllenial.com

inspired by everyday family life,

@themomllenial

blog dedicated to sharing content

doing their best to live sustainably and lower their carbon

from decorating your home to

footprint. Augeri is passionate about finding brands and

planning the perfect kid-friendly

businesses that do good for people and the planet and sharing

vacation and everything in

them with her followers while also posting about easy-to-make

between. Tracy Alves created the

recipes, fun things to do around town, home decor and the

blog in 2015 and has over 100,000

roller coaster that is being a millennial mama.

followers today.

TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019 Photo by Elizabeth Holder Photography

Jennifer Burby is the face behind the lifestyle, humor, and

JENNIFER BURBY

@tampamama

TampaMama.com, a blog that guides

tampamama.com

parenting blog, The Champagne Supernova. Her work has

parents around this beautiful city

been featured in national publications such as Real Simple

(and beyond) to the best places for

Magazine, Scary Mommy and The Huffington Post, and she is

kids and families. She is a working

the face behind brands such as Febreze, Breyer’s and Shipt.

mom of four, carefully juggling a full

When she’s not writing, Jennifer works as a litigator at a

time career at GoGo squeeZ, leading

Tampa law firm. @thechampagnesupernova

Girl Scouts and all the chaos that goes along with a family of 6.

thechampagnesupernova.com

MARISA LANGFORD

Family. Food. Life. Ashley

Along with her “co-workers,”

Alex Metallo is married to

The anchor behind military

Amy Patenaude, a Nationally

Solberg is one momma

her two sons (2-and-a-

her high school sweetheart

spouse and mommy blog,

Certified School Psychologist

leaving her mark on the world

half and 3 months) and

and is the mother of four

Anchors + Planes, Angel

(NCSP) and Licensed School

by raising her three kids

occasionally her husband,

wonderful, chaotic littles!

McClung is a cinematic

Psychologist, wears many

(twins included!) the best she

Anna Giblin travels to

Visit her blog, Alex the Real

photographer in the Tampa

hats: mother, wife, friend,

can with a little fun along the

playgrounds in our area,

Housemom, to read about

Bay area whose work ranges

assessment consultant for

way. She adores the Tampa

analyzing their amenities and

family fun, quick recipes and

from intimate weddings to

a publishing company, and

foodie scene, family-friendly

true functionality for other

the adventures of a mom

products for

school psychologist. She

travel, inventing easy recipes

mamas. Explore her visual

and wife, all with a splash

social media. She is

created psyched2parent.

and making their house

blog about the fun, fabulous

of humor—her motherhood

passionate about sharing

com to share information

an intentional home in the

playgrounds in Tampa Bay—

superpower!

cruelty-free and vegan

and research from the fields

middle of mom-life chaos.

and she loves getting new

products to fellow parents

of education, medicine,

recommendations.

and military families in an

and psychology to provide

encouraging and joyful way.

guidance and help you reflect on your parenting practices.

ASHLEY SOLBERG

ANNA GIBLIN @playgroundguru

@ashleysolbergblog

ALEX METALLO

@alextherealhousemom

AlexTheRealHousemom.com

ashleysolberg.com

ANGEL MCCLUNG

AMY PATENAUDE

@angel.mcclung

@psyched2parent psyched2parent.com

anchorsandplanes.com

KATRINA OLIVEIRA

Jennifer Buggica, a Tampa native, is the creator of The Foodie Patootie, a food and parenting blog

JENNIFER BUGGICA @thefoodiejen

thefoodiepatootie.com

where she shares her favorite recipes. You’ll find nourishing, flavorful meals that the whole family will enjoy, plus the truths about motherhood.

Follow her on Instagram for recipe demos and her adventures with kids in Tampa Bay.

@mommyhoodlife

mommyhoodlife.com

KRYSTAL BUTHERUS

Imelda Olvera

IMELDA OLVERA

Mommyhood Life is a fun mom's guide to

Sunny Sweet Days is a

is a young

Florida food and lifestyle

Latina mother

Katrina Oliveira’s goal is to inspire moms

blog designed to inspire

to a preschooler

to spend intentional time with their families

busy families. Writer Krystal

who shares her

having fun. Her blog features kid-approved

Butherus celebrates

experiences on

recipes, family-friendly travel ideas, must-

cooking, travel, Florida

motherhood as

see Florida attractions, and tips to help make

theme parks, baking sweet

well as tips and

motherhood a little easier.

treats, and ideas to organize

fun things to do in

your home on a budget.

@SunnySweetDays sunnysweetdays.com

the area.

creating unforgettable family memories.

@mamaandsun

mamaandsun.home.blog

MAY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

21

MOTHER'S DAY 2019

yeah, baby

Our favorite finds from the Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association Built for Baby show held in Orlando. These are the latest trends that will hit store shelves soon and in the year ahead.

TRENDING PRODUCTS YOU DIDN'T KNOW YOU NEEDED

1

10

WELLNESS & CARE THINGS

11

THAT MAKE YOUR LIFE EASIER, MOM

1 // UPSRING lactation cookies, vitamins and more. upspringbaby.com

9

2// BUMKINS We are loving all the new patterns from bibs to tableware. bumkins.com

2

3

3 // KIDKUSHION retractable driveway net kidkushion.com 4 // B & N NATURAL LAUNDRY DROPS bandnlaundry.com 5 // REPLAY recycled plates, cups and more! re-play.com 6 // OOGIEBEAR booger and ear wax tool myoogie.com

5

8

7 // LITTLE TWIG Dish Soap & Bottle Wash littletwig.com 8 // PRINCE LIONHEART TUBIMAL for bath now and storage for later. princelionheart.com

4

FOR BATH NOW AND STORAGE FOR LATER

7 TECH

10 // KEEPSIE Universal pacifier cover thekeepsie.com 11 // Toothbrush by BABY BUDDY (They make them for parents too!) brilliantoralcare.com

INTEGRATED INTO PRODUCTS LIKE CAR SEATS AND MONITORS .

SNOO SLEEPER

Created by Dr. Harvey Karp, author of the beloved “Happiest Baby on the Block” and “The 5 S’s." You can also rent the Snoo, and military discounts are available. thehappiestbaby.com

22

6

9 // Diaper bags, pacifiers, and teethers

by ITZY RITZY itzyritzy.com

TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

CYBEX CAR SEATS WITH SENSORSAFE

We loved the features Cybex has incorporated into car seats. The base makes it super easy to access your child by twisting the seat toward you, but the tech part is the SensorSafe which will alert you if you leave baby in the car, if it gets too hot/cold, or if baby has been buckled in for more than 2 hours and needs a break. cybex-online.com/sensorsafe

Safety first. Products in this industry are very highly regulated and tested really rigorously. So you can be really be confident your products are safe.

-Kelly Mariotti, JPMA executive director.

The JPMA certification is an extra measurement to look out for.

ON THE GO

WE’RE BRINGING OUR BABIES WITH US EVERYWHERE. THESE PRODUCTS HELP MAKE IT AN EASY AND SIMPLE PROCESS .

1

3

2 // SLUMBERPOD Genius invention by a mom who was looking for options when traveling with baby! The black out fabric of the tent is breathable and fits most Pack 'n Play style travel cribs. There is even a pocket for a baby monitor to keep an eye on baby. slumberpod.com

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9

2 4

5

8

3 // KIINDE Travel Bottle Warmer Holds enough hot water to warm two bottles. We also love the entire line of Kiinde breastfeeding products! kiinde.com 4 // LASCAL BUGGYBOARD Fits 99% of strollers so the older sibling can hitch a ride. lascal.net 5 // WONDERFOLD BABY The foldable push wagons may not be Disney approved, but they are pretty genius for everywhere else, especially for families looking for wagons/strollers that can carry more than 2 kids. wonderfoldoutdoor.com 6 // BUGGY GEAR TURBO FAN Three speeds, buil-in flashlight and optional sunshade. Florida perfect! buggygear.com 7 // The BOB JOGGING STROLLER is getting a makeover and it’s all good…we promise! The Alterrain Pro will be out by the end of this year.

It has been upgraded from the wheels to handle bar with new positioning and a new look. And it’s easier than ever to fold away! The double jogger comes out next year. bobgear.com

DOLCE AND GABBANA DESIGNER CARRIER

8 // MIAMILY baby carriers are stylish, ergonomic and super-functional with storage for mom. This line has even paired up with Dolce and Gabbana to elevate your baby carrier game. Miamily.com

7 6

SENSE A LIFE

1 // BRITAX launches NEW car seat: ONE4LIFE: This new seat will take your child through every stage from 5 pounds to 120 pounds. Upgrade to add fabrics that are cooling and stain resistant.

This is perfect for a parent looking for a long term car seat solution or a grandparent who travels with different grandkids at a time! Available in October. britax.com

Created by two Tampa dads, Sense a Life is a tool parents can use to remind them when baby is in the car. A small pad is placed under the car seat and can detect weight as little as two pounds. When you open your car door, you are reminded to get baby. If you forget, you are notified on your phone and a backup contact is notified if you don’t respond. sensealife.com

9 // BABIATOR sunglasses babiators.com and 10 // SUNSTACHES sunglasses sunstaches.com Designs for baby will be released later this year.

NANIT MONITOR

This is not only a baby monitor, it is a sleep monitoring system that helps coach you based on baby’s sleep data. The cord is hidden and not accessible to little ones. The secret to monitoring baby’s movement is in the swaddle or waist band. No devices needed on baby! nanit.com MAY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

23

MOTHER'S DAY 2019

reinventing roles MEET THREE LOCAL MOMS WHO RE-EVALUATED THEIR OWN BLEND OF PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LIVES

By Tara Payor, Ph.D.

arenting changes us in unprecedented ways. As families grow—along with schedules and childcare costs—a reevaluation of personal and professionallife-blends often occurs. Rather than viewing their personal situations as catalysts for giving up their careers, these moms surveyed their canvases— deciding how to both rework paint and add fresh strokes.

P

LUCY, FROM THE HILL TO THE STUDIO

Lucy White, mother of three (ages 8, 6 and 4), spent five years in the corporate world and eight on Capitol Hill, where she met her husband. After baby three, she stepped away from the workforce. An art minor, White viewed her new schedule as an opportunity to paint again whenever she could catch a moment, often during naptimes and evenings.

Organically, a business grew: Lulu Studio, a fine art studio and gallery that White says was born out of her desire to return to her identity. “I wanted a space that was bigger than just my art—one that could be used communally.” She’s proud of the empowering female communities frequently gathered at Lulu, and her children are proud of the creative space that is their mother’s business: “I’m illustrating how to go after dreams. I’m proud of that. I reclaimed my right to take the kids to their activities and I don’t compromise that.”

MEET DINA SHERIDAN, FROM DEPOSITIONS TO DESIGNER HANDBAGS

Dina Sheridan, mom of two (Stella, 5, and Beau, 1), spent 12 years practicing law until her first child was born. Though she stayed home with Stella, she couldn’t stop work altogether, so she started a photography business and became an Independent Brand Ambassador for India Hicks, who designs handbags and jewelry.

Sheridan plans on practicing law again (she and her husband own Busciglio &

24

TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

MICHELE, FROM THE OR TO THE PLAYROOM

Michele Panetta spent years preparing for and practicing her Certified Nurse Anesthetist role. After having her daughter and taking a three-month leave, she returned to the operating room part-time.

“My husband (Nick, a physician) also has unpredictable hours; we needed a nanny with flexibility. We were also having to schedule family events a year out. It was hard. I felt like I was doing everything halfbest—never adequately. It felt like drowning.

I wanted to be more present for Marcela’s activities.”

Panetta now works PRN (i.e. as needed) at two surgery centers. “It enables using the skills I worked long and hard for. Plus, I return refreshed and happy to be mom.”

She’s also learned to say no. She’s focused on maintaining independence and setting a good example for Marcela. While PRN brings uncertainty and doesn’t offer the same financial security as full-time work, it supports the sort of flexibility integral to the Panetta family’s fulfillment.

Sheridan Law Group); she maintains her law license and stays involved with organizations that were a part of her premom life, such as Friends of Joshua House.

Still, Sheridan works through feelings of being lesser than because she’s not contributing financially as much as previously. Journaling helps: “I have a journaling book for moms, which asks one question per day. Consciously writing and later recalling the things we’ve done for our families, no matter how seemingly mundane, reminds us that what mothers do is more valuable than any other job.”

Image by Agostini Photography

MAY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

25

MOTHER'S DAY 2019

COVER STORY

Disney's sweet treats

uncover 6 picture perfect surprises at Disney parks When I heard that Walt Disney World had recently debuted some overthe-top snack creations, I packed up my family and decided to scour the parks looking for the most Instagram-worthy goodies. And man did I find them. HERE ARE JUST A FEW OF MY FAVORITES.

By Diana Blinkhorn

1/ NOM NOM COOKIE

This giant chocolate chip cookie is what dreams are made of, a crispy outside with a warm and gooey inside.

This cookie, an ode to Jack Jack’s cookie obsession in "Incredibles 2," can be found at The Neighborhood Bakery in Pixar Place at Hollywood Studios.

3

2/ SPRING FANTASY COTTON CANDY

1 WE LOVE DIANA BLINKHORN'S @MRSBLINKS AND GRAY RUBY DIARIES (THEGRAYRUBY.COM) BECAUSE SHE'S PASSIONATE ABOUT EMPOWERING WOMEN AND SPREADING JOY WITH THE LITTLE THINGS. HER INSTA FEED PHOTOS ARE ALWAYS SO CUTE.

5/ HEI HEI CONE

This infamous cone is inspired by the movie “Moana” and features a blue sugar cone topped with raspberry soft-serve, pineapple Dole Whip, sugar eyes and sour candy. The raspberry’s one of my favorite treats. You can find this cone at Aloha Isle in Adventureland, but keep in mind these lines can get quite long.

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TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

2

6/ MICKEY CONFETTI PRETZEL

The prettiest pretzel in all the land had to be the Mickey Confetti Pretzel: a Mickey pretzel dipped in marshmallow fluff and topped with confetti sprinkles.

Find this at the Tortuga Tavern by Pirates of the Caribbean.

There are always delicious snacks at Epcot’s Flower and Garden Festival, but when I laid my eyes on the Spring Fantasy Cotton Candy flower, I was in complete awe. I wasn’t the only one. Lines for this too-pretty-to-eat snack have been said to be over an hour long. For that reason, they are no longer making the 5-layer version and will sometimes close the line as it gets closer to the end of the day. I waited for about 20 minutes and it was totally worth it. The cotton candy was light and airy with a unique floral flavor, and this was pretty much the prettiest snack I have ever seen. You can find the Spring Fantasy Cotton Candy Flower at The Lotus House in the China Pavilion.

5

4 3/ ADVENTURE IS OUT THERE CONE Who doesn’t love Disney-Pixar’s “Up?” One of the newest cones we found during our Magic Kingdom snack tour was inspired by one of my favorite movies.

This blue sugar cone is topped with mango soft-serve and a candy balloon made of white chocolate covered in candy coated chocolate balloons. This treat can be found at Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies in Tomorrowland.

4/ THE LOST PRINCESS CONE Inspired by the movie “Tangled,” this purple cone comes topped with lemon soft-serve, lovely edible flowers and sparkly edible glitter! This is the perfect treat if you are looking for something light and refreshing. Find this cone at Storybook Treats in Fantasyland.

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SOMETHING TO FLOAT EVERYONE’S BOAT Dining beside a breathtaking 33,500-gallon aquarium is just one incredible experience at RumFish Grill. Learn all about local marine life and even Swim with the Fishes – an incredible snorkeling experience you have to ‘sea’ to believe. You can even shop a huge selection of merchandise from local brands and artists!

Located in front of RumFish Beach Resort by TradeWinds on St. Pete Beach.

6000 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach

|

727.329.1428

|

RumFishGrill.com

MOTHER'S DAY 2019 Image by Shana Mitchell, Shana Mitchell Photography

moms

TO KNOW

By Julie Tingley

When I think about Mother’s Day and the reasons we celebrate motherhood, and what makes the relationship between a child and their mom so sacred, I think of selfless acts that nurture; surroundings that are safe and breed confidence; and an unwavering demonstration of love and devotedness. I’m lucky to know so many exceptional mothers in the Tampa Bay area. Being connected to some of the best female business leaders through the KNOW Book + Tribe, I have watched many of these women achieve tremendous success both outside and inside their homes. It is my sincerest honor to share the stories of two women who inspire me daily and who I believe embody the very ideals that Mother’s Day is intended to observe and distinguish.

I have watched many of these women achieve tremendous success bo th outside and inside their homes.

Christina Campbell

THE MOMMY SPOT TAMPA BAY ON THE WEB & SOCIALS mommyspottampa.com IG: @mommyspottampa

Lauren McComb Chamberlain

PURE BARRE; PRUVIT ON THE WEB purebarre.com/fl-tampa

and setthebarre.pruvitnow.com

Image by Rana Tierney, Roohi Photography

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TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

A natural leader, Lauren Chamberlain grew up with a passion for health and fitness.

Chamberlain's love for living a healthy lifestyle combined with her innate entrepreneurial skills are what led her to open and co-own Pure Barre Tampa & St. Petersburg. Out of 500 studios, they consistently are amongst the top Pure Barre studios in the country in customer retention and retail sales.

In addition, Chamberlain started her own business with Pruvit. A worldwide leader in ketone technology, Pruvit created the world’s first consumerbased ketone supplement. Lauren educates the community on the benefits of living a keto lifestyle. The ability to change people’s lives when it comes to their health and wellness has been a dream come true. Cultivating success within her Pruvit team has allowed her leadership abilities to shine as she helps her team surpass their health and financial goals.

Chamberlain is a proud mother of two and very involved in the Tampa Bay community. She is on the board of “A Women’s Journey” through All Children’s Hospital and is a Lululemon Ambassador.

FB: The Mommy Spot Tampa Bay

Christina Campbell is the "mom boss" behind The Mommy Spot, a website and events company for moms in Tampa Bay. With her love for all that encompasses motherhood and her native city of Tampa, she knew that launching this resource in 2014 would be a no-brainer.

The Mommy Spot has quickly grown to be a fun resource hosting events all over Tampa Bay including their baby expo, The Tampa Bay Baby Bash, and their 5th annual Noon Year's Eve event that provides families a fun dance party with a juice toast at noon.

Between juggling three kids and planning events, Campbell has also evolved into a mommy expert. You’ll find her sharing the latest and greatest in baby gear or fun local picks on a morning news show or Facebook Live.

With the success of the local website, Campbell will be launching The Mommy Spot's national website this year.

LEARN MORE about the KNOW Tampa book at theknowtribe.com

Natalie Taylor and Carley Boyette are also among the 100 women to KNOW in Tampa.

MAY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

29

MOTHER'S DAY 2019

he Junior League of Tampa Diaper Bank hit a new milestone March 30 when they received their first shipment of 30,000 diapers from National Diaper Bank Network’s national sponsor, Huggies. The delivery marks a new stage in the growing program, coming on the heels of the Diaper Bank’s expansion to four new community agencies this month.

Since it launched in September 2018, we’ve distributed almost 40,000 diapers and expanded to work with seven community partners. What we learned is, it’s not really about diapers, it’s about poverty. Diaper need affects one in three families in the United States, and there is no government safety net program that allocates dollars towards this need. Our goal is to help eliminate this need in our community.

The Junior League of Tampa Diaper Bank is doing just that. In under four hours, 30 volunteers turned the towering pallets of diapers into 1,200 diaper kits, which will be distributed to community partners like Champions for Children, The Alpha House, Voices for Children’s Guardians ad Litem and foster care case management organizations like Gulf Coast Jewish Family Services.

These kits, which consist of 25 diapers, a pack of diaper wipes and a tube of diaper rash cream, are a key component in breaking the cycle of poverty; each kit allows a child to attend a week of daycare, many of which require 5 clean diapers per day for that child to attend.

Parents that cannot provide these diapers are unable to attend work or school.

Children that attend early childhood education programs are three times as likely to go onto higher education and children of families that struggle with diaper need have an increased risk of sickness, child abuse and even death, due to issues like premature toilet training as a result of the stress caused by this financial burden.

“The recent government shutdown temporarily created an economic crisis for working families across our country, as they struggled to meet even their most basic needs,” says Junior League of Tampa President Isabel Dewey. “While the return of government work resolved this crisis for many, for the 200,000 households in Hillsborough County who are living paycheck to paycheck, the state of struggling to obtain these necessary products is perpetual, and it is linked to a punishing cycle of poverty.”

T

diaper squad THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF TAMPA DIAPER BANK ACCEPTS 30,000 DIAPERS FOR LARGEST PACKING YET

By Caroline Foss, The Junior League of Tampa

This delivery marks the largest for The Junior League of Tampa’s new initiative, but it’s the first of many. You can help the program stay successful: • Donate directly to The Junior League of Tampa Diaper Bank at jltampa.org/diaperbank/ • Donate opened and unopened packages of diapers and unopened packages of baby wipes and diaper rash cream at one of our drop spots, found on our website.

•Donate unopened packages of feminine hygiene products.

• Host a diaper drive at your work, place of worship or other group.

• Shop our Amazon wishlist.

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TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

The Junior League of Tampa Diaper Committee collects diapers year-round and distributes to community partners.

MAY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

31

MOTHER'S DAY 2019

SPONSORED

Good for you, mama NUTRITION FOR NEW MOMS

By Rhonda Richardson, MS

DON'T BE TEMPTED TO SKIP MEALS. IT'S NOT THE TIME.

our bundle of joy has finally arrived! Keeping a focus on good nutrition is just as critical as when you were pregnant, especially if you are breastfeeding. You will need energy to keep you going through those sleepless and selfless moments, protein to help you heal and rebuild tissues, and vitamins and minerals to support overall good health.

Y

WHEN IT COMES TO EATING AFTER GIVING BIRTH, HERE ARE 5 TIPS:

1

Eat a balanced diet, including a wide variety of foods from all the food groups, and be smart about your portions.

3

Aim for 3 cups each of vegetables (for fiber, vitamins and iron), fruits (for energy, vitamins and water) and lowfat dairy foods (for calcium and vitamin D), daily.

2

Aim for nutritious foods such as lean meat, low fat or nonfat dairy products, fruits, vegetables and whole grain breads and cereals.

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4

Eat 7 ounces each of whole grains and of protein foods such as

TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

meat, fish or poultry, or beans or lentils, tofu or soy, eggs or nuts.

5 Drink about 8-12

cups of fluid, with the majority being water. If you are nursing, drink 1 cup of water each time your baby nurses.

These steps will help ensure that you give your body what it needs and it will help you to produce quality breast milk.

In fact, your body will not let you forget thanks to those intense hunger signals! It would be great to prepare every meal at home but, let’s be honest, your first two weeks (maybe more) will be spent getting you and your baby into some routine. Cooking may be on the back burner, but making convenient, nutritious choices is now easier than ever, thanks in part to things such as frozen convenient meals.

One good option is called Wildscape, and it brings you tasty meals ready in under 6 minutes made with wholesome, nutrientrich ingredients including 12-24 grams of protein, hearty whole grains, vibrant vegetables and exciting culinary sauces. It’s a great go-to for helping you hit most of those nutritional goals as a new mom. So find that moment (or two!), during the day to do something good for your body, mind and soul.

Try a fresh take on frozen meals.

Ready in 6 minutes!

Find it at your local Publix today! @wildscapefood hello@wildscapefood.com

MAY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

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A GRAND VIEW FROM THE BEST BEACH IN AMERICA Welcome to the Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach! Offering 343 guestrooms, come experience America’s Best Beach, as rated by Trip Advisor’s Traveler’s Choice Awards, with views of the Gulf of Mexico and Intracoastal Waterway. Indulge in the tranquil Pallavi Spa or enjoy waterfront dining at our signature restaurant, Ocean Hai, the only Asian-fusion cuisine on Clearwater Beach.

Make your reservation today at WyndhamGrandClearwater.com or call us at 727-281-9536, referencing rate code HTBB20. Rates start at $199 per night.

100 Coronado Dr, Clearwater, FL 33767 wyndhamgrandclearwater.com 727-281-9500

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TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

These rooms – equipped with bunk beds for the kids and a king bed for adults –provide a glimpse into the world of marine life rescue and the mission of the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.

WYNDHAM GRAND FOR MORE INFO ON OUR VISIT WINTER & FRIENDS PACKAGE AND TO BOOK YOUR SUMMER VACATION, PLEASE VISIT

wyndhamgrandclearwater.com.

The perfect family summer vacation awaits at Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach, the newest beachfront resort on America’s #1 Beach as rated by TripAdvisor’s 2019 Travelers’ Choice Awards. Drift away in the sparkling outdoor pool, indulge in delicious, fresh cuisine at Ocean Hai, the area’s only AAA 4 Diamond restaurant with direct views of the Gulf and relax with a soothing treatment at Pallavi Luxury Spa. For a one-of-a-kind experience, stay in one of our twelve, exclusive Winter the Dolphin or Mavis the Sea Turtle bunk rooms and immerse yourself in sea life with our Winter & Friends Package. These rooms – equipped with bunk beds for the kids and a king bed for adults –provide a glimpse into the world of marine life rescue and the mission of the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, located less than 5 minutes from the resort. As part of the package, meet our friends from the Clearwater Marine Aquarium for a fun-filled day of exploring and learn more about Winter and Mavis’ journey that has inspired us all. A portion of the proceeds from this package will be donated to Clearwater Marine Aquarium to support their mission of preserving marine life through rescue, rehabilitation and release.

MAY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

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CAMPS OUR GUIDE TO AREA SUMMER PROGRAMS

ACADEMY AT THE LAKES | SUMMER AT THE LAKES PROGRAM 2331 Collier Parkway, Land O’ Lakes, 34639 813-948-7600; summeratthelakes.com Summer at the Lakes is a safe, fun and caring environment where your child will broaden their horizons and learn something. New camps this year: 1st Responders Academy, CSI Camp and Girls Volleyball. Noncredit K-8th classes: STEM, Spanish and Kindergarten 101. New for-credit high school courses: Chinese, government and French.

COST: Half and full day options DATES: June 3-July 26, AGES/GRADES: PreK3-9, Coed $150 to $375 times vary ACADEMY OF THE HOLY NAMES SUMMER ON BAYSHORE 3319 Bayshore Blvd., Tampa, 33629 813-839-5371; holynamestpa.org/summer Fun-loving kids ages 3 and up may choose from themed day camps, STEM, technology, sports and enrichment camps at the Academy of the Holy Names’ ever-popular Summer on Bayshore!

From Lego to lacrosse and cooking to cartooning, Summer on Bayshore has something for everyone. Complete session information and online registration is available at holynamestpa.org/summer.

COST: Half and full day options $150 to $325, weekly

DATES: June 3-July 26, times vary

AGES/GRADES: PreK3-8, Coed

ADMIRAL FARRAGUT ACADEMY 501 Park St. N., St. Petersburg, 33710 727-384-5500; farragut.org/summer At Farragut, summer means jump right in! Check out the awesome that happens here all year long by attending our fun and educational summer boarding or day camps. All camps are open to the public, include a hot lunch, and are held at our campus with a private pool and waterfront.

COST: Day camp $125 to $300 Boarding camp $2,250 to $5,000

DATES: June - August, times vary

AGES/GRADES: PreK-8 Day camp, 8-12 Boarding camp, Coed

AMERICAN STAGE 501 Park St. N., St. Petersburg, 33710 727-823-1600; americanstage.org/summer Ignite your child’s creative voice! American Stage provides quality theatre training in a positive and inspiring environment that gives young people the tools to be fearless, focused, and flexible on stage and in life. Studying theatre helps students become accomplished, confident performers and empowers creative, intellectual and emotional growth.

COST: $225 to $610 DATES: June 3 - Aug. 10, AGES/GRADES: Ages 5-18, Coed weekly 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

ART CAMP 2019 AT THE JAMES MUSEUM 150 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, 33701 727.892.4200 x1010; thejamesmuseum.org/summercamp Let your imagination soar at art camp! The James Museum’s week-long summer day camps encourage children to get messy as they explore a variety of art making processes. With inspiration from our collection of paintings and sculptures, campers will bring their own ideas to life in our children’s art studio. Art camp offers opportunities for hands-on learning, creative thinking and collaboration. Campers enjoy a week full of art experiences inspired by the American West through fun and engaging activities, such as storytelling, sketching, close observation of our art collection – and lots of art making in our studio space!

COST: Day camp $160 to $180 weekly

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TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

DATES: June and July, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

AGES/GRADES: Ages 6-11, Coed

istock.com/OlenaGo

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE | SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

a High-energy, hands-on stem camp

1,600+ Summer Programs Available Nationwide!

Secure your spot!

Register at invent.org/camp OR 800-968-4332 For Grades k-6

All-new programming

led by local educators

In partnership with the USPTO 37

MAY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

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

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

Our Summer "Art Adventures" Camps are sure to please!

This summer they are extra special because we have a brand

new studio!!

Each week we will do lots of different projects with different themes and may include painting techniques, wood and paper crafts, making something with clay, stamping and of course, ceramics!! We will also make new friends and play games. We provide a snack each day and on Friday we will have a pizza or ice cream party!

We are SO excited about our new space and can't wait for you to see it!

COLOR ME MINE SUMMER ART ADVENTURES 38

TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

e into Summ c n a D

er

One Week Dance Camps

Musical Theatre Camp Learn from professional singers, dancers, and actors and perform in an ending showcase.

July 8 - 19, 2019 Monday - Friday • 9am-3pm Ages 8-11 & 12-16 $

350 for 2 weeks

(Before and After Care Available)

At On The Edge our one-week camps are a great way for kids to learn about dance while having fun and making new friends and summertime memories. Select 1 week or up to 10!

Ballet • Jazz • Hip Hop • Tap • Contemporary Breakdancing • Cheer & Tumble • Crafts & Movies

June 3 - August 9, 2019 Mondays - Fridays • 9am-4pm Ages 6-12

$

150 per week

(Before and After Care and Multi-week Discounts Available)

Call today to register and secure your spot for Summer Dance Fun! 813-933-9321 4802 Gunn Highway | Suite 158 | Tampa, FL 33624 | Located in the Plantation Town Center

Clearwater Summer Camps Are The Place To Be!

CITY OF CLEARWATER

For $100 or less per week, campers receive all field trips, supplies, a t-shirt and 50 hours of fun activities.

The JWB sponsored teen camp is only $30 for the summer for those who qualify.

Dates: June 3 through Aug. 9 Camp Times: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Contact the recreation center of your choice for more information.

Elementary and Middle School Camp Countryside Recreation Center • 2640 Sabal Springs Dr. • (727-669-1914) Long Center • 1501 N. Belcher Rd. • (727-793-2320) Morningside Recreation Center • 2400 Harn Blvd. • (727-562-4280)

JWB Camp for teens ages 11-17 North Greenwood Recreation & Aquatic Complex 900 N. MLK, Jr. Ave. • (727-462-6276)

Clearwater Summer Camp 2019 “The Place to BE!” Looking for a fun and safe summer camp that your kids will LOVE? Look no further. Clearwater Summer Camps are the Place to Be! Clearwater Camps are the place to be for fun! Each week campers will enjoy a wide variety of fun activities including; fantastic field trips, goofy games, spectacular guest speakers, creative craft projects and other awesome activities. Additionally, each week a different positive Character Trait will be discussed and celebrated. Campers will build new friendships and create life-long memories under the supervision of caring adults. Each camp counselor is carefully selected based on their experience and love of children. Most of our staff are college students

www.myclearwaterparks.com

or teachers who return year after year to the delight of their campers. myclearwaterparks.com/camps MAY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

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SUMMER CAMP GUIDE | SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

BACH TO ROCK 17463 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Lutz, 33548 (in Van Dyke Commons plaza) 813.398.ROCK (813.398.7625); lutz.bachtorock.com Bach to Rock offers half and full day music camps for kids ages 4-17. No previous musical training is required. Bands or group ensembles learn current pop or classic rock songs, and will record a track in our state of the art studio. All campers will perform (including DJs in Beat Refinery) at the end of the week.

COST: Half and full day options DATES: June 3 to Aug. 9 AGES/GRADES: Ages 4-17, Coed $225 to $295 various times BAYSIDE SPORTS ACADEMY 4400 34th St. N., Suite E, St. Petersburg, 33714 727-258-4981; baysidesportsacademy.org/camps Bayside's Limitless Summer Camp provides fun and challenging experiences while encouraging children to love to be active. Enjoy our 28,000 square-foot air-conditioned facility and a variety of camps including: gymnastics, ninja, circus arts, and trampoline and tumbling. Full- and half-day camps and early bird pricing are available!

COST: Half and full day options DATES: May 30 to Aug. 13 AGES/GRADES: Ages 5-13, Coed $35 to $320 7:45 a.m. to 6 p.m.

BERKELEY PREPARATORY SCHOOL SUMMER PROGRAM 4811 Kelly Road, Tampa, 33615 813-885-1673; berkeleyprep.org/summer Over 120 camps and classes on our beautiful 80-acre campus. We have an enormous catalogue: volleyball, swim lessons, tech camps, fine arts, driver’s ed., chess, baseball, football, musical theatre, LEGO, basketball, rock climbing, debate, financial literacy, archery, and so much more.

There’s something for everyone at Berkeley Summer Programs.

COST: Varies by camp

DATES: June 3 to July 26 various times

AGES/GRADES: Ages 4-17, Coed and non-coed options

"BEST HORSE CAMP" AT WEST COAST MORGANS 17126 Boy Scout Road, Odessa 33556 813-920-9870; westcoastmorgans.com WCM Horse Camp is the BEST. We offer single and half days and many discounts. We have beginners to advanced, different themes and days filled with hands-on horse activities as well as guest speakers and water play.

COST: $60-$80 daily, $275-$375 weekly

DATES: June 3 to Aug. 9 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

AGES/GRADES: Ages 7-11, Coed

BULLSEYE LEARNING'S CAMP EXPLORATION & ADVENTURE: INTERACTIVE SUMMER EDITION Presbyterian Church of Bloomingdale, 710 E. Bloomingdale Ave., Brandon, 33511 813-413-4998 or 1-844-430-1645; bullseyelearning.com/camp Your Interactive Summer Edition is being a TV news reporter, making food alongside a chef, telling jokes with a comedian, catching "bad guys" alongside a police officer with a 4-legged partner, playing sports with professional athletes and interacting and learning from more than 50 guest speakers. Campers learn by doing with the pros in the business of roller coasters, firefighting, inventing, karate, dancing, drawing, clothing design, painting and animal rescue. Don't forget our weekly scavenger hunts, obstacle course races, water day, pizza Friday and much much more.

COST: One time materials fee $30 DATES: June 3 to Aug. 9 AGES/GRADES: Ages 5-12, Coed per student; single student 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekly tuition $130; siblings $115 per student BUSCH GARDENS 10165 N. McKinley Drive, Tampa, 33612 813-884-4FUN; buschgardens.com/tampa/summer-camps Home to more than 12,000 animals and world-class coasters, Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay has camps for both animal lovers and thrill seekers alike. Kids grade 5 – college can enroll in one-ofa-kind camps. Book today and start counting down to the best summer ever.

COST: Varies

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TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

DATES: June 9 to Aug. 7, resident camps June 8 to Aug. 15

AGES/GRADES: Day camp, K-12, Resident camp, 5-college

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SUMMER CAMP GUIDE | SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION CAMP DOVEWOOD 23221 101st Road, O’Brien, 32071 386-935-0863; campdovewood.org Camp Dovewood celebrates 42 years of dynamic Christian camping for girls 7-16 in north Florida with an exceptional equestrian program: English & Western riding, dressage, trail rides, horseshows and grooming/stable management. Campers can also enjoy cheerleading, gymnastics, art, music, archery, tennis, swimming, drama, volleyball, soccer, softball, cooking, leadership, Bible, ballet and river rafting. 1,2 and 3-week sessions.

COST: $625 to $1,025

DATES: June 9 to July 20

AGES/GRADES: Ages 7-16, girls

CAMP IDLEWILD 7602 Henry Drive, Land O' Lakes, 34638 813-996-1226; campidlewildofflorida.com Camp Idlewild is for campers with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Our low staff-to-camper ratio (1:2) allows flexible, choice-based activities. We offer classic camp activities that campers can access at a level where they feel comfortable. Our staff knows how to adjust activities to be accessible for all kids!

COST: Varies, scholarships DATES: Summer AGES/GRADES: Ages 6-17, Coed available Various times CAMP IDS 12015 Orange Grove Drive, Tampa, 33618 813-961-3087; corbettprep.com community/camp-ids Campers can try their hand at archery in the morning and dabble in French cooking in the afternoon. 100+ half- and full-day camps. Engineering, performing and visual arts, music, sports, STEM, academic, field trips, Chinese, Spanish, outdoor activities and more.

Free drop-off at 7:15 a.m. Bus transportation and after-care till 6 p.m. available for a fee.

COST: $100 to $125 per week DATES: June 10 to July 26 Various times

AGES/GRADES: PreK3-12, Coed

CAMP ILLAHAW AT FOREVER FLORIDA 4755 N. Kenansville Road, St. Cloud, 34773 407-957-9794; foreverflorida.com The best horse and adventure camp in Florida! A wildlife sanctuary on 4,700 acres of conservation land. With three camps to choose from; Base, Wild West and Extreme Outdoor Camp, we have campers interests covered. Included free; valuable life lessons and memories to last a lifetime. Dish-washing and mopping skills included: free.

COST: Starts at $699 per week DATES: June 9 to July 28 AGES/GRADES: Ages 9-15, coed Sleep away CAMP IMAGINATION AT GLAZER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM 110 W Gasparilla Place, Tampa 33615 813- 443-3861; glazermuseum.org/camps Little learners imagine, discover and connect to the world around them at Camp Imagination.

With imaginative weekly themes from dinosaurs to robotics to magical tales, there’s a camp for every kid. Register your kids to play with purpose and embrace curiosity this Summer at Glazer Children’s Museum! Now offering autism-friendly weeks and need-based camp scholarships.

COST: $265 starting May 1, GCM members Save 15%

DATES: June 10 to Aug. 2, AGES/GRADES: Ages 5-10, coed 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

CAMP INVENTION Multiple locations throughout the Tampa Bay area 800-968-4332; invent.org/camp Unmask your child’s creativity this summer in the all-new Camp Invention® program, Supercharged™, where children transform their wild imaginations into epic creations. Campers in grades K-6 will code robots and use collaboration and creative problem solving during handson STEM activities. Visit invent.org/camp or call 800-968-4332 to register. Use promo code INNOVATE25L to save $25 (expires 3/22) or PLAY15LISTING to save $15 (expires 5/10).

COST: Starts at $230

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DATES: June 10-14, AGES/GRADES: K-6, coed 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

CAMP OSPREY 18050 US 301 S., Wimauma, 33598 941-928-6860; camposprey.com Camp Osprey is a kids’ day/overnight adventure camp, challenging kids to push themselves, to try new things, to help build confidence in themselves. Horseback riding, high ropes challenge course, zip line, archery, paintball, kayaking, fishing, BB gun arcade, giant swing, games and more all-inclusive. Day camp Mon. to Fri. 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. with breakfast and lunch included. Week overnight Sun. to Sat. Come to camp strangers; leave as friends. A lifetime of memories in just one summer.

COST: $195 day camp DATES: June 2 to July 29 AGES/GRADES: Ages 7-15, coed with $450 overnight various times single sex cabins TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

CLEARWATER MARINE AQUARIUM

SUMMER CAMP

NEW CAMP SELECTIONS FOR 2019

June 3 — August 16, 2019

EARLY LEARNING TO HIGH SCHOOL CAREER SHADOW PROGRAMS

REGISTER EARLY

SUMMER CAMP FILLS UP QUICKLY!

Sign up today at: Seewinter.com Email us at: camps@cmaquarium.org

727-441-1790 x270 MAY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

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SUMMER CAMP GUIDE | SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

CAMP WOODMONT 381 Moonlight Drive on Lookout Mountain, Cloudland, GA 30731 423-472-6070; campwoodmont.com Imagine a home away from home where your child feels secure, welcome and reassured — that’s Camp Woodmont! Just 2½ hours from Atlanta. ACA accredited overnight camp for boys and girls 6 to 14. Activities include archery, climbing, horseback riding, crafts, games, sports and more! Open house Sunday, May 19, 2-5 p.m.

COST: $910 one-week session DATES: May 26 to July 26 AGES/GRADES: Ages 6-14, coed $1,445 two-week sessions CANTERBURY SUMMER PROGRAM 990 62nd Ave. NE, St. Petersburg, 33702 727-521-5933; canterburyflorida.org/summer Canterbury's Summer Programs will provide your camper with a variety of exciting options to promote adventure, a love of learning, and a playful spirit! This summer will not only be fun for your camper but also provide an inspiring environment where they will grow intellectually and socially.

COST: $165 weekly, half-day $330 weekly, full day

DATES: June 3 to July 26

AGES/GRADES: K-12, coed

CARROLLWOOD CULTURAL CENTER 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa, 33618 813-922-8167; carrollwoodcenter.org/camp-activities At the Carrollwood Cultural Center, artistic expression, belting it out, busting a move and getting into character are all encouraged! Through art, music, dance and drama, campers 4-10 will explore a different theme each week, while campers ages 11 to 13 use the theme to create an original staged production.

COST: $150 to $350 weekly DATES: June 3 to Aug. 29 AGES/GRADES: Ages 4-13, coed 9 a.m. to 3 or 4 p.m.

CARROLLWOOD DAY SCHOOL "TURN IT UP" Bearss Avenue Campus 1515 West Bearss Ave., Tampa, 33613 Early Childhood Campus 12606 Casey Road, Tampa, 33618 Bearss 813-920-2288, ECC 813-963-2388; carrollwooddayschool.org/summercamp Lets "TURN IT UP" as we extend our academic learning, follow our passions and explore new horizons. CDS’s very own faculty and year-round staff, along with other professionals, lead our summer programs and encourage your child to achieve their goals with strong problem-solving skills in a fun and safe environment.

COST: $150-$250 half and full day

DATES: June 3 to July 19 or July 27

AGES/GRADES: PreK3-12, coed

CENTER ICE 3173 Cypress Ridge Blvd., Wesley Chapel, 33544 813-803-7372; ahcenterice.com Learn to Skate Camp is designed for the beginner to intermediate skater who just wants to have fun and learn how to skate. Our team of skating counselors will introduce new skating skills in a safe and supervised setting. The camp includes off-ice games, on-ice lessons, and more.

COST: $275; before May 1 $245

DATES: June 3 to Aug. 1

AGES/GRADES: Ages 6-13, coed

CIRCLE C RANCH ACADEMY, INC. 6204 Interbay Blvd., Tampa, 33611 813-831-8429; circlecranchacademy.com Circle C Ranch has been around for over 30 years! Join us for a fun ranch experience this summer.

You can ride horses and swim every day. Other activities include sports, archery, art and more.

COST: $100 to $220, Varies by age

DATES: June 3 to July 29 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

AGES/GRADES: Ages 1-13, coed

CITRUS PARK DAY SCHOOL 11112 Henderson Road, Tampa, 33625 813-264-3500 Citrus Park Day School is a private, co-ed school providing exceptional care and enrichment opportunities to children. We prioritize each child's growth and safety while cultivating their intellectual, physical, and emotional development in an academically rich environment where caring comes first.

COST: varies DATES: June 3 to July 26 AGES/GRADES: Ages 5-10, coed 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

Fun-loving kids ages 3 and up may choose from themed day camps, STEM, technology, sports, and enrichment camps at the Academy of the Holy Names’ ever-popular Summer on Bayshore!

For additional information or to register online, visit holynamestpa.org/summer.

Weekly sessions run from June 3 - July 26.

ACADEMY OF THE HOLY NAMES

3319 Bayshore Blvd. | Tampa, FL 33629

holynamestpa.org

813.839.5371

Academy of the @holynamestpa Holy Names - Tampa

PreK3 - Grade 12

We celebrate the love of learning and the joy in the journey. You Matter Here™

SPARK

FUEL

your curiosity

your passion

IGNITE your future

The best way to learn more is to see us in action. Contact admissions TODAY! Call (813) 909-7919 or visit AcademyAtTheLakes.org/Schedule-a-Tour Academy at the Lakes • 2331 Collier Parkway • Land O’ Lakes, FL 34639 MAY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

AL5190 TBP April Issue 2019 LIVE.indd 1

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3/8/2019 2:35:54 PM

junior docent art camp a surreal summer experience

Ages 9-14 | June & July The Dalí Museum invites adventurous kids to Junior Docent Art Camp, where award-winning instructors lead surrealist-inspired activities that help build self-esteem, enhance speaking skills and provide opportunities for personal expression.

Parents say

“…a great hands-on experience with the arts.” “…nothing like it around.”

learn more at TheDali.org/camp

FSDB Expanded Core Curriculum Summer Academies

WHEN

WHERE

WHO

APPLY NOW

June 2019

FSDB Campus St. Augustine, FL

Eligible Deaf/Hard of Hearing and Blind/Visually Impaired Students Age 9-16

www.fsdbk12.org/outreach

Florida School for the Deaf & the Blind 46

TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

For Additional Information: Elizabeth Wilcox, Director of Outreach Phone: 904-827-2455 Email: wilcoxe@fsdb.k12.fl.us

THE #1 STEM CAMP

FOR AGES 7–19

From coding and game dev to robotics and design, your child will develop in-demand skills and ignite lifelong passions—all in a fun, inclusive environment. Choose from 50+ innovative courses and join our community of over 400,000 alumni. Get ready for the best summer ever!

Held at over 150 prestigious universities University of South Florida | Rollins College University of North Florida | Florida Atlantic UMiami | Emory | Tulane | NYU

Get a brochure and find a camp near you!

TUITION-FREE PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOL K - 8TH Grade A Rated School Project Based Learning AdvancED Accredited Academic Excellence

16215 Hanna Road | Lutz, 33549 | 813-948-4190

LEARNINGGATE.ORG

MORE INFORMATION AND TOUR D ATES CAN BE FOUND ONLINE

LEARNINGGATECOMMUNITYSCHOOL

LEARNING_GATE

MAY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

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SUMMER CAMP GUIDE | SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION CITY OF CLEARWATER SUMMER CAMPS Multiple Locations myclearwaterparks.com/camps Looking for a fun and safe summer camp that your kids will love? Clearwater Summer Camps are the place to be! Each week campers will enjoy a variety of fun activities including field trips, sports and games, positive character development, crafts and more. Don't be left out of the fun!

COST: $90 to $100, weekly

DATES: June 3 to Aug. 9 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

AGES/GRADES: Grades 1-8, coed

CLEARWATER COMMUNITY SAILING 1001 Gulf Blvd., Clearwater, 33767 727-517-7776; clearwatercommunitysailing.org Clearwater Community Sailing Center is the place to spend summer on the water! We have put together a great program this year – sign up and join the fun! All experience levels are welcome.

For the safety of your camper, he/she must be the correct age for the camp group you are registering for. All registrations are subject to approval.

COST: $175 to $295

DATES: June 3 to Aug. 9 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

AGES/GRADES: Ages 5-17, coed

CLEARWATER MARINE AQUARIUM 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, 33767 727-441-1790 x 270; seewinter.com Join Winter and all her rescued friends at Clearwater Marine Aquarium’s Summer Camp. Camp options feature snorkeling in sea grass beds and sand flats, kayaking through local estuaries, visiting our rescued residents, and discovering fascinating marine creatures in their natural habitat. Learn about marine life from sea turtle biologists, rescue team members, dolphin researchers, our veterinarian staff and animal care team—all at a working marine animal hospital.

COST: $110 to $185, Varies by session

DATES: June 3 to Aug. 16 AGES/GRADES: Ages 5-18, coed 8:30-11:30 a.m. or 1-4 p.m.

CODE NINJAS 11909 Sheldon Road, Tampa, 33626 813-708-8598; codeninjas.com/camps/fl-tampa-westchase Code Ninjas camps offer an immersive environment for children to explore technology, develop new skills, and have a great time with friends. It’s an unforgettably fun learning experience! Each week of summer we offer engaging topics like game building, website building, Minecraft and Roblox Create, robotics, Javascript and codable drones.

COST: $239 to $339

DATES: June 3 to Aug. 9

AGES/GRADES: Ages 7-13, coed

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

COST: $175 per child, weekly DATES: June 10 to Aug. 2 AGES/GRADES: Ages 6+, coed 10% off for siblings 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

DALI MUSEUM JUNIOR DOCENT CAMP One Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg, 33701 727-823-3767; thedali.org/camp Learn about the art and life of Salvador Dalí; lead docent tours of The Dalí’s collection; create art in new ways, enjoy imaginative games and activities, and explore the Museum galleries and Avant-garden.

COST: $200 to $250 DATES: June 10 to July 26 AGES/GRADES: Ages 9-14, coed weekly various times

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DELPHI ACADEMY 1831 Drew St., Clearwater, 33765 727-447-6385; delphifl.org Delphi Academy offers a summer camp filled with fun and balanced with learning. We have six weeks that are available for flexible enrollment. We offer field trips, in-house arts and crafts programs, cooking classes, team games and academic camps. We have an adventure for all your summer needs.

COST: $1,040 4 weeks, DATES: June 17 to July 26 AGES/GRADES: Ages 2-17, coed $1,560 6 weeks 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

Summer Camp Build confidence and develop camaraderie with other campers while enjoying bowling. Our campers receive a personalized bowling ball, camp t-shirt, bowling ball water bottle, daily snacks and lunch!

Enjoy bowling competitions, indoor and outdoor activities, movies, arts and crafts, arcade games and an end-of-camp party!

Pin Chasers, serving fun to the Tampa Bay community for more than 60 years, has three locations: Pin Chasers MIDTOWN

Pin Chasers EAST PASCO

Pin Chasers VETERANS

4847 N. Armenia Ave. in Tampa, FL

6816 Gall Blvd. in Zephyrhills, FL

5555 W. Hillsborough Ave. in Tampa, FL

813-877-7418

813-782-5511

813-884-1475

DATES CAMP STARTS

June 10th, June 24th & July 8th

at our Midtown & East Pasco locations

June 17th and July 15th at our Veterans location

TIMES

Monday to Friday 9AM-3:30PM* *Buy extra time until 6 pm for only $30/week

COST

$199 per week*

AGES

5 to 15 | Coed

Register for camp at pinchasers.net or call 813-871-2695

MAY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

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LANDING THIS MONTH O N E S M A L L S T E P, T H E E X H I B I T I O N AT M O S I

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

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

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Where everyone has a great time!

7 Weeks of Options: June 10 - July 26, 2019 Over 100 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.A.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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SUMMER CAMP GUIDE | SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION DUNEDIN FINE ART CENTER 1143 Michigan Blvd., Dunedin, 34698 727-298-3322; dfac.org/kids-corner/summer-camp DFAC’s Summer Art Academy proudly offers over 30 years of Summer Art Enrichment fun. Todd Still, Director of Youth Education, heads up his 21st year of a premier summer program in the Tampa Bay area. Seven different art camps feature the best artists and art educators in the region – multi-media experts with skills from painting to clay to drawing to dreamin’!

COST: $170 to $200 DATES: June 3 to Aug. 9 AGES/GRADES: Ages 41/2 - 16, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. coed ECKERD COLLEGE SUMMER WATERSPORTS CAMP 4200 54th St. S., St. Petersburg, 33711-4744 727-864-8288; eckerd.edu/waterfront/camp The Eckerd College Summer Watersports Camp offers classes in exploring watersports, sailing, wakeboarding, windsurfing, paddlesports, saltwater fishing, little mariners and exploring marine life and more for students ages 5-17. This camp is taught in the perfect environment for learning watersports and gives campers exciting and unforgettable experiences!

COST: $175 to $295 DATES: June 3 – Aug. 2, 9 a.m to AGES/GRADES: Ages 5 to 17, weekly noon and/or 1 - 4 p.m. coed FIREHOUSE CULTURAL CENTER 101 1st Ave. N.E., Ruskin 33570 813-645-7651; firehouseculturalcenter.org Nine weeks of fun for campers ages 8-14. Choose one week or all nine. Different themes each week with snack and lunch breaks in a creative and safe environment. Imagine, explore and discover musical theater, visual arts, animation and robotics. Each week culminates with a “Show-off”.

COST: $135 member, DATES: June 3 – Aug. 2, AGES/GRADES: Ages 8 to 14, $150 non-member weekly 8:30 a.m to 3:30 p.m. coed THE FLORIDA ACADEMY OF THE PERFORMING ARTS 402 Oakfield Drive, Brandon, 33511 813-490-2787; faopa.org Musical Theatre camps meet from 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Monday through Friday for two weeks.

Musicals include Frozen Junior, Willy Wonka, The Wizard of Oz Junior, Lion King Junior, and many more. Music and More full day camp is offered weekly with activities focusing on musical instruments, acting, singing, art, and much more. Register online.

COST: $100 to $200 weekly Full and half day

DATES: June 3-Aug. 2, times vary

AGES/GRADES: Ages 5+, coed

THE FLORIDA AQUARIUM 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa 33602 813-273-4000; flaquarium.org Since 1995, The Florida Aquarium has been opening eyes to the world outside to encourage conservation of the ocean and natural environment. Our camps are fun and engaging while also fostering the creativity and critical thinking that builds science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) skills in young children and youth. Each week offers a different theme, early drop-off and late pick-up at no extra cost, lunch options, and guaranteed fun! Join us, and let our camps be the best part of your summer.

COST: Varies DATES: June-Aug. AGES/GRADES: Ages 3-18, coed

Florida School for the Deaf & the Blind Do More. Be More. Achieve More.

FLORIDA SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF AND THE BLIND 207 N. San Marco Ave., St. Augustine, 32084 800-344-3732; fsdbk12.org FSDB will host two Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC) Summer Academies during June 2019 at its St. Augustine campus – at no cost to blind/visually impaired and deaf/hard of hearing students with transportation and boarding/meal opportunities. Note: Not available to currently enrolled FSDB students. fsdbk12.org/summer-programs COST: Free

DATES: June 9 -28, times vary

AGES/GRADES: Ages 9-16, coed

FRENCH AMERICAN SCHOOL OF TAMPA BAY 2100 62nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg, 33702 727-800-2159; fastb.org The French American School of Tampa Bay presents Camp FASTB, a French immersion camp, where the language of the camp and all activities is French. Campers learn the language naturally through play, art and music, and enjoy nature and swim days. too. Please call 727-800-2159 or email admission@fastb.org to sign up today!

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COST: $200 to $300 weekly

TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

DATES: June 10 – July 26, 9 a.m. to noon or 3 p.m.

AGES/GRADES: Ages 5+, coed

ECKERD COLLEGE

WEEKLY CLASSES HALF & FULL DAY J UNE 3 - AUGUST 2 AGES 5-17 OPEN ENROLLMENT

SAILING, WINDSURFING, PADDLESPORTS, LITTLE MARINERS, FISHING, CHILDREN’S MARINE DISCOVERY, EXPLORING MARINE LIFE, AND WAKEBOARDING!

727.864.8288

eckerd.edu/waterfront/camp

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Summer will never 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. Join us for a summer adventure!

“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 a Soul Adventures summer camp.

Your 10-15 year old can choose from 11 weeks of outdoor adventure camps, including kayaking,

paddle boarding, sailing, fishing and much more.

Combine these exploits with a powerful daily devotion time, and you have the recipe for an adventure that might just last a lifetime.

REGISTER TODAY AT www.souladventures.us

129 N. Belcher Road, Clearwater, FL 33765 727-797-1186

Let your imagination soar at The James Museum’s Summer Art Camp!

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2D & 3D pARTy June 10-14 MIXED MEDIA MASTERPIECES June 24-28 CLAY CREATIONS July 8-12 July 22-26

St. Petersburg, FL | thejamesmuseum.org/summercamp | 727-892-4200 x1010 54

TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

Camp FASTB French Immersion Camp Language, Culture, Art & Fun! Begins June 10 for Ages 5 & Up Visit fastb.org/camp-fastb and enroll today!

No prior French language education required.

IT’S SO MUCH MORE THAN DANCE

2100 62nd Avenue North, St. Petersburg, FL 33702 727-800-2159 | www.FASTB.org

This Summer at Mary Jo’s!

SUMMER CAMPS, CLASSES & MORE

DANCE ACT SING MUSIC

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Excellence

MJPAA.COM/SUMMER MAY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

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SUMMER CAMP GUIDE | SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION GIRLS RULE THE WORLD SUMMER CAMP 6919 N. Dixon Ave., Tampa, 33604 813-300-2891; girlsrgems.org Join GEMS summer camp for an experience of a lifetime! RULE THE FIELD -sports training daily.

I AM HER-DIY art projects to create healthy spaces. Xpress Yourself -journaling activities.

IMAGINE YOU -character development / cooking classes. CODING AROUND and CANDLE MAKING -STEM Training. OUR SAFTEY ZONE- cyber safety predator alert.

COST: $150 weekly DATES: June 10 – Aug. 9, AGES/GRADES: Ages 8 to 14, 8 a.m to 4 p.m. girls GIRL SCOUTS OF WEST CENTRAL FLORIDA Palm Harbor, Riverview and Wildwood 813-281-GIRL (4475); gswcf.org/summercamp Let her spend her summer days exploring the great outdoors, trying new things, building her problem-solving skills, making lifelong friends and becoming a leader. Our program is centered around outdoor activities and traditional camp experiences in a supportive environment which allows campers to discover their courage and build their confidence.

COST: Starts at $230 DATES: June 9 to Aug. 3 AGES/GRADES: Rising grades Day and overnight options 1-12, girls GIRLS WITH CONFIDENCE Various locations 813-571-2002; girlswithconfidence.com Girls With Confidence offers several unique, creative and fun camps for girls in K-8 grades. Every day we focus on a new "confidence building" theme where we have discussions, activities, games and work on different creative art projects and crafts. All girls love our camps and will benefit from attending.

COST: $119 half day, DATES: June 3 to Aug. 9 AGES/GRADES: Ages 5-14, girls $300 full day Varied times

GREAT EXPLORATIONS 1925 4th St. N., St Petersburg, 33704 727-821-8992; greatex.org/programs/summer-camp At Great Ex, safety is our top priority, so we offer small ratios and a licensed childcare program.

Children learn through play with hands-on STEAM activities, gross motor games and museum exploration. Themes change weekly and include field trips for grades 1-3. Discounts are available for multiple weeks of registration.

COST: $230, members $210

DATES: June 3 to Aug. 9 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

AGES/GRADES: Rising grades K-3, coed

HARBOUR ISLAND ATHLETIC CLUB & SPA 900 S. Harbour Island Blvd. Tampa 33602 813-202-1950; wellbridge.com/harbour-island-athletic-club Each week children ages 5-12 will have fun learning a variety of healthy activities including cardio tennis, yoga, obstacle courses, swim techniques and endurance, brain games, team building, arts, crafts, and more. All counselors are CPR/AED certified and background checked to ensure safety.

COST: $199 to $220 weekly $60 to $70 daily

DATES: June 3 to Aug. 9 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

AGES/GRADES: Ages 5-12, coed

HILLSDALE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 6201 Ehrlich Road, Tampa, 33625 813-884-8250; hcatampa.org/academics/summer-camp When school ends, adventure begins! Hillsdale Christian Academy’s Summer Camp provides kids with a fun, safe and adventurous place to spend their time this summer. There are daily outdoor activities, water days, crafts, camp t shirt, and 1st-6th grade field trips twice a week. Join us this summer for an epic adventure!

COST: $180 weekly DATES: June 3 to Aug. 2 AGES/GRADES: PreK3-6, coed 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

ID TECH Held at 150 prestigious campus locations 888-709-8324; idtech.com iD Tech is the world leader in STEM education, with 400,000 alumni since 1999. Summer programs for ages 7-19 are held at 150 prestigious campuses including Stanford, NYU, HKU and Imperial College London. Students build in-demand skills for futures in coding, game development, robotics and design. Visit iDTech.com.

COST: Starting at $929 weekly

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DATES: June 17 - July 26

AGES/GRADES: Ages 7-19, coed

TA M PA P R E PA R AT O R Y S C H O O L SUMMER PROGRAMS

Friendship and fun in downtown Tampa!

Camp Terrapin

Academics

Robotics

Sports

Enrichment

A co-educational, sports and fine arts camp for students entering 1st 8th grades. Campers will experience a variety of activities in a fun and safe environment.

Full credit courses are 6 weeks and count as a full year course. Half credit courses are 3 weeks and count as a half year course. Course are taught at the Honors level.

Robotics Courses teach children various techniques from basic building to advanced programming.

Sports Camps are active programs designed for beginning and advanced players. Campers will be given indiviualized and group instruction to enhance their skills.

Enrichment courses for students entering 1st - 9th grades. Students have the opportunity to learn new skills or prepare for an upcoming school year.

2019 Dates: May 28- July 19 | Register Online! www.tampaprep.org/summer

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(Section 286.25, Florida Statutes)

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@STRAZ CENTER

PATEL CONSERVATORY

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

NOW!

DANCE • THEATER • MUSIC 58

patelconservatory.org 813.222.1040

TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

#SummerSTEAM

Summer Programs at Shorecrest

JUNE 3 - AUGUST 2

Camps for students of all ages, from preschool to 12th grade, including: • Drones & Robotics • STEAM Options • Video Game Creation • Musical Theatre Training • Specialty Sports Clinics • Academic Enrichment/ College Prep

And so much more!

View catalog and register NOW at

www.shorecrest.org/summer Summer is coming soon!

at Shorecrest

5101 First St. NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33703 | 727-409-1668

Summer at Shorecrest offers academic enrichment camps, recreational camps, athletic camps—and so much more! Affordable full and half day camp options for students in preschool through 12th grade. OPEN TO THE COMMUNITY.

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SUMMER CAMP GUIDE | SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

IN THE BREEZE RANCH

IN THE BREEZE RANCH 7539 Gardner Road, Tampa, 33625 813-264-1919; inthebreezeranch.com Any day there is no school is camp day at In The Breeze! We cater to ages 5 and up. Harness your child’s love of horses and “stirr-up” a lifelong passion with horsey camp. Safety is our main concern. Each child is assigned their very own horse daily. With up to two rides per day as well as a lesson, your child will have a blast. We trail ride on our exclusive 300 acres full of lakes, streams and creeks. Spots are limited. Reserve yours now! Our camp offers a 2 to 1 ratio.

COST: Starting at $49 per day

DATES: June to Aug.

AGES/GRADES: Ages 5+, coed

JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER 13009 Community Campus Dr., Tampa, 33625 813-264-9000; jcccohncampus.com/programs/camp-jcc Camp J offers a summer camp experience for children entering kindergarten through eighth grade. Choose from 15 different specialty camps at the Bryan Glazer Family JCC or a traditional day camp experience nestled on 20+ acres at the JCC on the Cohn Campus. All based on our four core values: respect, community, spirit and kindness.

COST: Varies DATES: June 11 to Aug. 2 AGES/GRADES: K-8, coed KIDZ ON THE GO 3617 Henderson Blvd., Suite B, Tampa 33609 813-900-5997; kidzonthegosouthtampa.com Let our child transportation service drive your busy kids to and from camp, school or other activities! Locally owned and operated with a long-standing reputation of care and transporting children. It is our goal to provide a safe, simple and stress-free way to get your kids where they need to go.

COST: Varies DATES: Service available now AGES/GRADES: K-12, coed

LA FLEURS GYMNASTICS TAMPA 10205 Anderson Road, Tampa, 33624 813-264-5000; lafleurstampa.com LaFleur's Summer Camp is fun for boys and girls ages 4 - 12. Our curriculum is full of gymnastics instruction, games, ball skills, swimming and more. All of our fun-filled activities take place in our fully padded and air-conditioned facility. For your convenience we offer half-days and full-days along with before and after care. This camp offers kids a real fitness boost. It's a blast!

COST: $27 to $225 full and half day options

DATES: June 3 to Aug. 9 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

AGES/GRADES: Ages 4-12, coed

LAKE AURORA CHRISTIAN CAMP 237 Golden Bough Road, Lake Wales, 33898 863-696-1102; lakeaurora.org Lake Aurora Christian Camp is a place to experience God’s creation and see lives changed!

Since 1947 we have specialized in summer camp programs. Located in central Florida on a springfed, clear lake, we offer a wide variety of activities like target sports, boating and waterfront options. Focused on the whole development of young people, our programs include Bible teaching, social issues and life application of values in a Christ-centered atmosphere. We offer program tracks, including leadership development and wilderness camping along with traditional camp experiences. We are a 501(c)3 organization owned by 78 independent Christian churches.

COST: $99 to $397

DATES: June 4 to Aug. 2

AGES/GRADES: Rising 1-12 grades, coed

MARCIA P. HOFFMAN SCHOOL OF THE ARTS 1111 N McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater, 33759 727-712-2706; hoffmanschoolofthearts.com This summer, the Marcia P. Hoffman School of the Arts at Ruth Eckerd Hall will offer students of all ages and experience levels the opportunity to explore their talents, discover new friends and learn from professional arts instructors through a variety of classes in musical theatre, drama, music, dance, on-camera acting and more!

COST: $250 - $575 DATES: June AGES/GRADES: Ages 5-18, coed

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MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS SUMMER CAMP 6400 E. Chelsea St., Tampa, 33610 813-626-6191; mhctampa.org Camp Mary Help is all about faith and fun becoming one! Our camp is modeled to be a home, school, church, and playground for all, providing a traditional camp experience with extraordinary activities. Our 140-acre campus includes a gymnasium, an Olympic-sized pool, lakefront property, and barn to explore.

COST: $175 weekly DATES: June 10 to July 26 AGES/GRADES: Ages 5-15, coed 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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SUMMER CAMP GUIDE | SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION MARY JO’S PERFORMING ARTS ACADEMY 15906 Mapledale Blvd., Tampa, 33624 813-969-0240; mjpaa.com/summer The arts are a perfect avenue to allow your children to explore their creativity, tap their imagination and discover their potential. Students will develop self-expression, build confidence, learn to work with peers, foster problem solving skills and stimulate curiosity. From classics to pop culture, your children will unfold the wonderful world of the performing arts.

COST: $125 to $225

DATES: Weekly, 9 a.m to noon, 3 or 4 p.m.

AGES/GRADES: Ages 3-12, coed

MINOR ACHIEVEMENTS 113 South Disston Ave., Tarpon Springs, 34689 727-934-0924; minorachievements.com Check out amazing inclusive summer camps at Minor Achievements. Leaders are highly qualified therapists and teachers who have developed quality programs to embed targeted skills in fun and engaging activities. See what we have for you!

COST: $180 weekly

DATES: June 3 to July 26 9:30 a.m. to noon

AGES/GRADES: Ages 4-9 and 12-17, coed

MOREAN ARTS CENTER 719 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, 33701 and 420 22nd St. S., St. Petersburg, 33712 727-822-7872; moreanartscenter.org Unique summer camp offerings for children 4-16 years old. All campers will enjoy a week of artfilled experiences using selected weekly themes. Teen offerings include glass, animation, jewelry, photography, clay and more. All campers will work on take home projects, collaborative pieces and community art projects. We have something for every budding artist.

COST: $65 to $330 DATES: Various AGES/GRADES: Ages 4-16, coed weekly 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

MOSI 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa 33617 813 987-6000; mosi.org MOSI’s Summer Science Camps bring Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math (STEAM) alive through hands-on experiments, innovative projects and creative play. From extracting DNA to launching rockets and building robots, MOSI engages campers with real science experiments, simulations, explorations and inventions and inspires them to discover the innovator within!

COST: Starts at $126 weekly, DATES: June 3 to Aug. 9 members save 25 percent 9: a.m. to 4 p.m.

AGES/GRADES: K-12, coed

ON THE EDGE AT FRANK REY DANCE STUDIO 4802 Gunn Highway, Suite 158, Tampa, 33624 813-933-9321; frankreydancestudio.com Our 1-week dance camps are great for girls and boys to learn about dance, try out different styles and make new friends and summertime memories. Dance styles will include ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, cheer and tumble, and salsa. Registration begins Monday, March 4. Space is limited.

COST: $150 weekly

DATES: June 3 - Aug. 2 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

AGES/GRADES: Ages 5-12, coed

PATEL CONSERVATORY 1010 North W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa, 33602 813-222-1040; patelconservatory.org “ON THE EDGE” LOGO - version 1 - REVISION 1 At the Patel Conservatory, every student deserves the opportunity to discover their creative potential. Our summer programs provide training in dance, theater and music. Camps and classes vary by length, age and skill level. Patel Conservatory summer camps require active learning participation by campers and result in a performance.

COST: Varies, DATES: June 3 to Aug. 9, scholarships available times vary

AGES/GRADES: Ages 3-adult, coed

PEACE WORKS DAY CAMP 2019 Hyde Park Presbyterian Church, 1309 Swann Ave., Tampa, 33606 813-253-0069; hydeparkpres.com/vbs Join us for five days of lively, fun activities, engaging Bible studies and more. Each day, campers will focus on peace and peacemaking to encourage change, growth and unity. Peace isn’t always easy, but we discover it is always worth the effort. Peace works!

COST: $100, includes lunch and healthy snacks

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DATES: July 15-19, M-F 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.

AGES/GRADES: K-5, coed

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SUMMER CAMP GUIDE | SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION PIN CHASERS Midtown, Veterans, and East Pasco 813-871-2695; pinchasers.net Build confidence and develop camaraderie with other campers while enjoying bowling. Our campers receive a personalized bowling ball, camp t-shirt, bowling ball water bottle, daily snacks, and lunch! Enjoy bowling competitions, indoor and outdoor activities, movies, arts and crafts, arcade games and an end of camp party!

COST: $199 weekly

DATES: June 10 to July 15, varies by location, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

AGES/GRADES: Ages 5-15, coed

SAFETY HARBOR MONTESSORI ACADEMY 2669 N. McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater, 33761 727-724-1767; shma.us We invite children, ages 2 through rising eighth graders, to join us all summer or for a week at a time. Themes encompass exciting activities, in-house enrichment, field trips, science experiments, and opportunities to learn new skills and sports. Each week will include fun and games and new friendships!

COST: $150-$190 DATES: May 28 to Aug. 2 AGES/GRADES: PreK2-8, coed weekly SKY ZONE 10137 E. Adamo Drive, #800b, Tampa, 33619 813-833-1740; skyzone.com/tampa Fly high this summer at Sky Zone! Kids can have fun while staying active, with instructor-led activities like Dodgeball, SkySlam and our New Warrior Course. With different themes each week, your kids will never be bored! It's easy and hassle-free for parents: Drop 'em off and we'll make sure they have the best experience ever.

COST: $139.99 to $179.99 DATES: All summer AGES/GRADES: Ages 5-13, coed weekly, 20 percent Full and half day sibling discount SHORECREST PREPARATORY SCHOOL 5101 1st St., N.E., St. Petersburg, 33703 727-409-1668; shorecrest.org/summer Summer at Shorecrest offers affordable, educational and FUN summer programs for students in PreK-12. Featuring drones and robotics, STEAM options, musical theatre training, specialty sports clinics, academic enrichment/college prep and so much more! View the full catalog and register at shorecrest.org/summer.

COST: $140-$600 DATES: June 3 to Aug. 2, full and half AGES/GRADES: PreK-12, coed weekly day options THE SKILLS CENTER 6919 N. Dixon Ave., Tampa, 33604 813-703-1324; theskillscenter.org Brains for Sports Weekly Camps- This full day sport-based youth development camp intentionally infuses sports, life skills and math. For ages 6-14. Weekly sports: basketball, tennis, street hockey, volleyball and soccer. Centrally located in Seminole Heights. Lunch, early/late drop off and sibling discounts.

COST: $150-$190 DATES: June 3, 10, July 1, 8, 22 AGES/GRADES: Ages 6-14, coed weekly 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

SOUL ADVENTURES 129 N. Belcher Road, Clearwater, 33765 727-797-1186; souladventures.us Soul Adventures is an adventure summer camp for 10-15 year olds. If you are looking for something exciting for your child to do this summer, then Soul Adventure is the right choice. When we say that summer will never be the same, we mean it. 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, archery - just to name a few. Each new day will bring a new adventure! We also offer a Jr. Adventure day camp for 5-9 year olds.

COST: $160-275 weekly DATES: May 20 to Aug. 9, 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

AGES/GRADES: Ages 5-15, coed

TAMPA BAY HISTORY CENTER 801 Old Water St., Downtown Tampa 813-228-0097; tampabayhistorycenter.org Spend your summer with American Girl© characters from three different periods in history or, unmask the myths behind pirates and explorers at the Tampa Bay History Center! Our camps, American Girl© and Swashbuckling Summer, feature hands on experiences including games, crafts, outdoor activities, gallery time and guest speakers. Each camp is led by experienced educators who provide fun and engaging educational activities.

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COST: $215, weekly TampaBayParenting.com MAY 2019

DATES: June 10 to July 26, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m

AGES/GRADES: Ages 7-11, coed

VISUAL ARTS All facets of the arts including painting, theater, and dance SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Hands on Science Projects and Computer Research SPORTS Physical Fitness & Technique Development CULINARY STUDIES Chefs in training learning cooking skills through cultivating fun colorful meals INTERNATIONAL LANGUAGE STUDIES Immersing students into the language through learning social activities

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11112 Henderson Rd. Tampa, FL 33625 | Summer Hours: 8AM- 4PM | Children 5-10 Years of Age

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE | SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TAMPA BAY ICE Various locations in Clearwater, Oldsmar and Countryside tampabayice.com Stay cool this summer at Learn to Ice Skate Camps. We offer weekly camps at all three locations for beginner through intermediate level hockey and figure skaters. No skating experience required.Check out tampabayice.com for details on times and costs.

COST: Varies by location

DATES: July 3 to Aug. 9 AGES/GRADES: Ages 5+, coed times vary

TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING Various Locations 813-301-6500; tampabaylightning.com Join the Tampa Bay Lightning for one of their exclusive Summer Camps! With offerings for all ages, camps range from Lightning Girl Cheer Camp to Lightning Made Ice Hockey Camps. Visit TampaBayLightning.com/LGSummerCamp or TampaBayLightning.com/LMSummerCamp for more information!

COST: $225 - $450 DATES: July 3 to Aug. 9 AGES/GRADES: Ages 6-12, coed pricing subject to change

TAMPA BAY TURNERS 2301 26th St. N., St. Petersburg, 33713 727-328-8500; tampabayturners.com Gymnastics classes, competitive USAG Teams, current levels 2, 3, 4, 6, 7 and 9 state team champions, indoor heated pool for swimming lessons starting at 6 months, toddler tumbling, second Sunday family day, birthday parties, Tiny Turners preschool (lic 52-51-04744), day camps.

COST: $39 per day and $164 per week

DATES: June 3, weekly 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

AGES/GRADES: Ages 5-12, coed

TAMPA ELITE SOCCER University of Tampa, Pepin Stadium 417 North Blvd., Tampa, 33606 813-323-3933; tampaelitesa.com Summer soccer day camps for boys and girls ages 5-13 years old. Camps run 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. to noon on Fridays. Camp weeks will be in June and July. Campers will do various activities along with soccer. Lunch is provided.

COST: $285 weekly

DATES: June and July various times

AGES/GRADES: Ages 5-13, coed

TAMPA MUSIC SCHOOL 3625 S Manhattan Ave., Tampa 33629 813-837-9245; tampamusicschool.com As seen on Fox 13 Good Day Tampa Bay, learn to play the guitar, keyboard and drums this summer at Tampa Music School with 20 hours of music instruction. Taught by REAL music instructors, your child will experience playing in a rock band and the Steel Pans with a Friday pizza party and Open House Concert.

COST: $250 weekly DATES: Select weeks June-August, AGES/GRADES: Ages 7-16, coed 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

TAMPA PREPARATORY SCHOOL SUMMER PROGRAMS AND CAMP TERRAPIN 727 West Cass St., Tampa, 33606 813-251-8481; tampaprep.org/summer Camp Terrapin is Tampa Prep’s well-known coeducational, sports and fine arts camp for students entering grades 1-8. Structured activities and theme days provide friendship and fun in downtown Tampa. Additional summer programs include a variety of sports camps and courses in robotics, academics and enrichment. This summertime extension of our award-winning day school program offers something for everyone!

COST: Varies

DATES: Varies

AGES/GRADES: Varies

TAMPA TARPONS SUMMER BASEBALL CAMP George M. Steinbrenner Field; 1 Steinbrenner Drive, Tampa, 33614 813-673-3102; milb.com/tampa/tickets/baseballcamp Receive professional instruction from the Tampa Tarpons, the Single-A Advanced Affiliate of the New York Yankees! The Tampa Tarpons Summer Baseball Camp is available for all children ages 6-13. Campers will receive a Tarpons hat, camp t-shirt and access to a pre-game cookout, followed by a Tarpons Game on Friday, July 26.

COST: $120 weekly before July 1 DATES: July 24-26 AGES/GRADES: Ages 6-13, coed $140 weekly after July 1 9 a.m. to noon Registration ends July 5 at 5 p.m.

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TARPON ARTS

WORKSHOP DIRECTOR DAVID O'HARA IS A TAMPA BAY AREA THEATER POWERHOUSE

School will be out soon and kids are already beginning to envision the best summer ever. If your child has expressed an interest in theater, look no further than Tarpon Arts. Tarpon Arts welcomes children ages 8 to 17 to the Rising Stars Children’s Theater Summer Workshop from June 3 – 21, Monday – Friday from 9 AM – 3 PM. This three-week workshop, held in beautiful Tarpon Springs and led by respected Pasco County Theater teacher David O’Hara, is designed to mold the next generation of superstars.

Participants will be guided through the creation of a production while learning casting, vocal projection, musical direction, costuming, stage managing, set design, choreography, sound and lighting, and more.

All participants will have an active role, whether their preference is center-stage or behind the scenes and all workshop materials are included. The workshop will culminate with two live performances of Disney’s Aladdin, Jr. at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center on June 22 & 23 where friends, family, and other patrons will cheer them on. Cost is $350/child and $300/child for Tarpon Arts members (additional child discounts and limited scholarships are available). A mandatory parent/guardian meeting will be held June 1 at 10 AM. To enroll your child today, call 727.942.5605 or visit TarponArts.org.

SUMMER CAMPS Swashbuckling Summer JUNE 10 - 14 AND JULY 8 - 12

American Girl

©

JUNE 24 - 28 AND JULY 22 - 26

History Adventure Camps are created for children ages 7 to 11. Campers get hands-on with history through games, crafts, activities, gallery time and guest speakers.

Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Before care and after care available.

Scholarships will be available and granted to campers based on need and availability.

Register at tampabayhistorycenter.org/camps or call 813.228.0097 Smithsonian Affiliate

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@tampabayhistory

Downtown Tampa | 801 Old Water St., Tampa, FL 33602

Tarpon Arts Presents

Rising Stars

Children’s ThEater Summer Workshop g n i r u Feat

JUNE 3 - 21

Mon - Fri, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Led by respected Pasco County theater teacher David O’Hara, participants ages 8 - 17 will spend three weeks immersed in: casting • vocal projection • musical direction • costuming stage managing • set design • choreography sound & lighting • and so much more!

The workshop will culminate with two performances of Disney’s Aladdin, Jr. on June 22 & 23 at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center.

727.942.5605 | TarponArts.org

Camp is limited to 30 participants $350/child, $300 for Tarpon Arts Members All workshop materials are included MAY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

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SUMMER CAMP GUIDE | SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

TARPON ARTS 100 Beekman Lane, Tarpon Springs 34689 727-942-5605; tarponarts.org This 3-week workshop, led by respected Pasco County teacher David O’Hara, is designed to mold the next generation of theatre professionals. The fun curriculum will guide participants through the creation of a production—including casting, musical direction, costuming, stage managing and sound—and ends with two performances by the camp of Disney’s “Aladdin, Jr.” COST: $300 - $350 weekly

DATES: June 3 – June 21, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily

AGES/GRADES: Ages 8-17, coed

TECHPLAYZONE 10451 Nancy Watkins Drive, Tampa 33619 813-444-2267; techplayzone.com STEM Camp for kids as they learn how to design, program, problem solve, create and have fun.

TechPlayzone camps have been successful since the Winter of 2005. Since that time, thousands of children have discovered the joy of making computer games, designing mobile apps, exploring engineering through Minecraft, creating circuits with Little Bits, building robots with the EV3 LEGO Mindstorms, and programming Arduino microprocessors used to fly Drones.

COST: $125 - $165 weekly

DATES: July 8-29 AGES/GRADES: Ages 7-13, coed 8 or 9 a.m. to noon

TRADITIONAL TAEKWON-DO CENTER OF SOUTH TAMPA 3617 Henderson Blvd., Tampa, 33609 813-350-9400; southtampataekwondo.com Who wants to be a Ninja this summer? Kick, spin, jump and learn TaeKwon-do with our amazing Black Belt instructors. Other activities include arts and crafts, enrichment classes, Lego and Beyblade play, obstacle course fun, awesome field trips and more.

COST: $145 weekly, lunch and snack included

DATES: June 3 to Aug. 9 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

AGES/GRADES: Ages 5-15, coed

USF SOCCER CAMP 4202 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa, 33620 813-974-9657; usfsoccercamps.com Join us at the best soccer camps in Florida! Our superb coaching staff includes licensed coaches and current USF Bulls soccer players. We strive to help each camper, from beginners to experienced players, improve in a positive and energetic environment! Campers will learn new skills, play games, and have a blast competing in camp tournaments!

COST: Varies

DATES: June and July

AGES/GRADES: Ages 4-18, coed

VALLEY VIEW RANCH 606 Valley View Ranch Road, Cloudland, GA 30731 706-862-2231; valleyviewranch.com Horse lovers’ paradise since 1954! A'top Lookout Mountain, for 50 girls, 8-17; 1 to 8 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!

COST: $2,000-$3,500

DATES: June 2 to July 26 Sleep away

AGES/GRADES: Ages 8-17, girls

VERTICAL VENTURES St. Pete - 116 18th St. S., St.Petersburg, 33712 Tampa - 5402 Pioneer Park Blvd. Suite E, Tampa, 33634 727-304-6290; stpete.verticalventures.com/camps 813-884-7625; tampa.verticalventures.com/camps Vertical Ventures Summer Camps give kids the skills and confidence to scale walls up to 40 feet high. Campers will learn the fundamentals of climbing, movement, equipment and safety. Our supportive staff emphasizes personal responsibility and encourages campers to develop greater self-confidence. Beginner, intermediate, and advanced level climbers welcome.

COST: $159 weekly members $199 weekly non-members

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DATES: June 3 to Aug. 2

AGES/GRADES: Ages 6-16, coed

TAMPA-HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARIES ARE COMMUNITY CULTURAL INSTITUTIONS

By Jennifer Hodges and Cheryl Wolfe

MUSIC

THEATER

The library fosters a love of music and encourages musicianship. Music shapes language development and increases the ability to understand mathematical concepts. Sensational live music concerts span all musical genres and are a prominent part of the library’s scheduled summer programs. Ukulele kits provided by Tampa Bay Ukulele Society (TBUS) are available to borrow with your library card. Free recording studios are available for music production, and our yearly Battle of the Bands features talented local musicians who submit original tracks in an online music contest for the opportunity to win big prizes. hcplc.org/pr/battle-of-the-bands

The library offers children and families the opportunity to experience the joys of live theater through a partnership with Creative Arts Theatre, the City of Tampa's professional theater company for young audiences. Through the arts of dance, acting and music, children learn how to communicate in a variety of unique ways. Seeing the world through a new perspective helps young minds imagine new worlds, new possibilities and new ideas. Children who attend live theater have shown greater tolerance of different people and ideas, as well as increased empathy for others. Creative Arts Theatre performs yearround throughout our library system. bit.ly/HCPLCTheatre

Our libraries play an important role as a community cultural institution. TampaHillsborough County Public Library fosters cultural enrichment through collaboration with the arts, humanities and other creative organizations.

ART

DISCOVERY

Communities gain value through public art and we are committed to providing public art experiences in our neighborhood libraries. Five libraries feature inspiring and engaging local art exhibits in various mediums. Opportunities to meet local artists are offered for art practitioners and enthusiasts of all ages.

Several libraries offer free fine art instruction classes taught by knowledgeable and distinguished artists.

Seventeen of our libraries feature public art collections which provide a distinct, unique insight to the exceptional individuality found in our community. Visit a library to see the current exhibit or attend a class. You also can explore the permanent collection through the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library Art and Artifact Collection. digitalcollections. hcplc.org/digital/collection/ p15391vra

The Tampa Bay area is a cultural gem that offers enriching experiences for all residents, and the library’s Discovery Pass program helps you get free admission to participating Tampa Bay cultural attractions and museums. With a Discovery Pass, families can experience art that inspires and engages, hands-on science that excites and educates, history that brings Tampa Bay alive, and up-close animal encounters.

This program encourages all residents of Hillsborough County to experience our region’s cultural bounty. View the full list of participating organizations to see what interests you and reserve your Discovery Pass today. hcplc.org/services/ discoverypass

When families connect with children in these various learning spaces, possibilities become realities. Together you are building a pathway for lifelong learning. Explore the cultural resources available through Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library. hcplc.org

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SUMMER CAMP GUIDE | SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

VOSLER YOUNG ARTISTS' STUDIO 1906 N. Armenia Ave., Suite 211, Tampa, 33607 813-417-5867; vosleryoungartistsstudio.com Our classical drawing workshops for ages 12 to 18 are very popular for the serious young artist. This skills based program is designed so you have at least one portfolio drawing by the end of the week. Great for artists thinking about going into visual arts, sculpture, or animation. Draw with master instructors and gain knowledge and solid fundamental drawing techniques. Part of this week will focus on drawing the model from life. Take two weeks and receive $25 off second week.

Mature 11-year-olds welcome. No experience necessary. All supplies included.

COST: $375 weekly DATES: June 3-14, 9:30 a.m. to AGES/GRADES: Ages 12-18, coed 4:30 p.m.

THE WAYNE INSTITUTE Palm Beach Atlantic University, 901 S. Flagler Drive, West Palm Beach 33401 561-329-9370; thewayneinstitute.org Prepare your student for high school and the college admissions process at The Wayne Institute!

The Wayne Institute offers a take-home, step-by-step Roadmap to Success, camp counselors who are all students at top colleges and universities (including the Ivy League), and a fun, unforgettable camp experience.

COST: $2,000 per week DATES: 5-Day sessions All-inclusive: housing, June 10 - July 15 meals, educational seminars, mentoring and a take-home, personalized Roadmap to Success.

AGES/GRADES: Ages 13 and up, coed

WhatSUP'S PADDLEBOARD CAMP Picnic Island Beach: 7409 Picnic Island Blvd., Tampa, 33616 813-999-6414; whatsuppaddlesports.com/kids-camp WhatSUP's paddleboard camp is dedicated to teaching children how to stand up paddle board along with building good sportsmanship, leadership skills, and promoting a healthy lifestyle.

COST: $200 weekly

DATES: June 3 to Aug. 9, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

AGES/GRADES: Ages 9-14, coed

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

COST: Starting at $119 DATES: June 3 to Aug. 5, weekly, based on various times location

AGES/GRADES: Rising K-10, coed

ZOOTAMPA 1101 West Sligh Ave., Tampa, 33604 813-933-8093; zootampa.org/camps Experience the zoo like never before! Behind-the-scenes tours, up-close animal experiences including real veterinary procedures, exclusive rides on the all-new Roaring Springs water adventure, wildlife photography, meet the veterinarians and animal care teams, arts and crafts, and more! Price includes before and aftercare, lunch, snack, water bottle, t-shirt and more.

COST: Starting at $229, DATES: June 10-28, July 8 to Aug. 5, weekly 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

AGES/GRADES: Ages 6-13, coed

Check out the complete list of summer camps on tampabayparenting.com 72

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get nose-to-nose with manatees

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LEARN ALL

SUMMER at Glazer

By Emily Mejia, Glazer Children’s Museum

hen I was an elementary school teacher, the last month of the school year was typically spent introducing my students to new concepts that they would be learning the following school year. I viewed summer vacation as an opportunity to give children a different type of learning experience. My hope was that students and their parents would take these introductions and work on them throughout the summer in order to best prepare them for what was to come. That’s what we hope to do at the Glazer Children’s Museum, where we use imagination to keep children’s minds stimulated and to create a fun and memorable experience for all of our guests, all summer long.

W

WAYS YOUR KIDS CAN CONTINUE LEARNING ALL SUMMER AT GCM

1 Take a trip in SMALLab

Traveling is not only an opportunity to make new memories as a family, but also to introduce children to new cultures and experiences. This summer you don’t have to go far to get this type of experience for your children. At the Museum, we use technology like SMALLab to engage children in new experiences daily through virtual trips. Children can use this motion-capture studio to interact with lions on a safari, swim with sharks or dive into a famous work of art. Our SMALLab offers a digital and interactive field trip experience that is difficult to find elsewhere.

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2 Make new friends at Camp Imagination

Socializing is important to children’s developmental process as it gives them a chance to learn how to interact in different settings and with various types of people.

During the summer months, children typically transition from frequently socializing with other children to far less interaction with others. Visiting the museum or attending Camp Imagination offers a chance for children to meet and interact with new individuals from the Tampa Bay Area and beyond. Campers range from 5 to 10 years old and the weekly themes cover a wide variety of subjects.

Children who attend camp can make friends of all ages and backgrounds while learning new subjects and picking up new interests.

3 Invent and make during the Summer of Making

The Summer of Making gives children the opportunity to become inventors and makers through innovative challenges, coding and robotics, and free-making activities. Making can challenge children to use critical thinking and problemsolving skills to invent and create. This summer, guests will have the opportunity to engineer, code, and more in this giant Makerspace. Our campers will also join in on the making fun when they learn about engineering, creating and coding during the “Build It,” “Make a Masterpiece,” and “Art + Bots” weeks at camp. And we’re very excited for Saturday, July 27 when we host Maker Faire with makers of all ages!

FO R AGES 5-10

GlazerMuseum.org/camps

Make Memories!

At GCM, your little learners imagine, discover, and connect to the world around them. Register your kids to play with purpose and embrace curiosity this Summer at Camp Imagination!

Art, Science, Theater, and More!

With imaginative themes, there is a camp for every kid! Find dates, themes, and details at GlazerMuseum.org/camps

June 10-August 2

8:30am-5pm | $265 a week $240 if booked before May 1 GCM Members Save 15%

BO O K TO DAY!

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college savings plans THE EARLIER THE BETTER

By Graham Rigby, CFP® Raymond James & Associates

I

t’s no surprise that college is expensive. Today’s estimated in-state cost of attending University of Florida for four years totals close to $85,000.1

Given recent inflation rates, that cost could easily reach over $150,0002 by the time a newborn is ready for higher education. Factor in private schools or out of state tuition, and the numbers are even more extreme. Though these figures may seem daunting, consider some of the following tips to be better financially prepared when college rolls around.

START SAVING EARLY AND OFTEN

Setting up a monthly automated savings plan can be an easy way to start storing money away for that future need. Start with an amount you can afford and will stick to. Over time, consider increasing the amount you are saving when you receive a raise, bonus or pay off loans.

INVEST

Compound interest can make or break a savings plan. An account making monthly contributions earning an average of 6% return on its investments annually could end up 64% larger than an account earning 1% over the course of 18 years. This extra boost could help you reach your goals sooner and more efficiently.

CROWDSOURCE

istock.com/ Natalia Samorodskaia

Grandparents and other family members are often interested in investing in your child’s future.

Consider asking them to make a contribution to the child’s college savings account rather than adding to the never-ending pile of toys in the closet for birthdays or holidays.

CONSIDER TAX-EFFICIENT VEHICLES

With 529 Savings Plans, Prepaid plans, Coverdell Education Savings Accounts, and Unified Transfer to Minor Accounts (UTMA), there is certainly no shortage of options when saving for higher education.

Two of the most popular options in Florida are a 529 Savings Plan, or a Prepaid Plan.

529 Savings Plan – These plans allow you to invest money in mutual fund style investments to be used tax-free to pay a wide array of college expenses. This can include but is not limited to tuition, books, fees, room and board, computers and even some K-12 expenses.

Prepaid Plan – This type of plan is a guarantee from the state to cover certain expenses in the future at today’s costs.

These plans are designed to cover the beneficiary’s tuition, but a dorm package can be added.

Both of these plans offer flexibility when the time comes to use the funds, including the ability to utilize the funds for more than one of your children.

Determining which option is best for you can be difficult, but you don’t have to make the decision alone. Work with a financial advisor to plan for this goal and many others.

Graham Rigby, CFP® – Financial Advisor Graham.Rigby@ RaymondJames.com © 2019 Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/ SIPC. The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Investment products are: not deposits, not FDIC/NCUA insured, not insured by any government agency, not bank guaranteed, subject to risk and may lose value.

1 sfa.ufl.edu/cost 2 collegecalc.org/colleges/florida/university-of-florida/ plan-and-save

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SPONSORED

OH, EAR! SWIMMER’S EAR— SYMPTOMS AND FIXES

By Kathleen M. Wasylik, MD, Pediatric Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists

ne of the best ways to enjoy Florida summers is by cooling off in the pool or ocean. Swimming can be refreshing and great exercise for kids!

Unfortunately, increased water exposure brings an increased likelihood of getting swimmer's ear. Formally called otitis externa, swimmer’s ear is an infection of the outer ear canal, which is the part of the ear that extends from the ear opening down to the eardrum.

O

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES?

There are multiple causes of otitis externa. Most commonly, water is retained in the ear canal after swimming.

This creates a moist environment that allows bacteria to grow and irritate the ear canal, causing swelling and often foul-smelling discharge. Other types of water exposure like showering, bathing and sweating can also create this vulnerable moist environment. Earwax is a protective element serving as a barrier to moisture and bacteria, so a lack of it can also increase your vulnerability to getting external ear infections. This is why Q-tip use and aggressive ear canal cleaning is discouraged. Certain conditions like allergies and eczema can increase one’s risk for otitis externa.

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU HAVE SWIMMER'S EAR? Initial symptoms include mild discomfort, itching, and slight redness or swelling of the canal. If it progresses, the ear canal and outside ear can be very panful to touch. The ear canal can be

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swollen, and moist malodorous drainage can occur. Some people will complain of hearing loss.

It is important to note that otitis externa or "swimmer's ear" is different from middle ear infections, which commonly occur in young children. A middle ear infection is an inflamed fluid collection in the space located behind the eardrum.

The distinction is important because the treatments are different.

EAR THE GOOD NEWS

The good news is that otitis externa can be easily treated. Patients can be diagnosed relatively easily with a physical exam and medical history. The first line of treatment is prescription topical ear drops that consist of antibiotics and steroids.

Symptoms usually improve in 2-3 days but can often take 1-2 weeks to completely return to baseline. In some cases, oral antibiotics need to be added for resolution.

The drainage can be sampled to help direct therapy if needed.

Patients with active swimmer's ear should typically not submerge under water until they feel better and their doctor clears them to do this. If your child gets external ear infections often, preventative measures include wearing earplugs and keeping the ear canal dry after water exposure, either with drying acidic drops like acetic acid/ vinegar, or by using a hair dryer on a low heat setting.

GROWING TOGETHER

A NEW Pediatric ER for your family’s emergencies!

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

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

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

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

119 Oakfield Drive I Brandon, Florida MAY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com 79

SPONSORED

DROWNING AN OCEAN SIZED PROBLEM

THE YMCA'S SAFETY AROUND WATER PROGRAM BRINGS AWARENESS

By Lalita Llerena

number of child drowning deaths was 88, up 7% from the prior year, according to the Florida Department of Children and Families.

ere’s an unwanted distinction: Recent data shows more children drowned in Hillsborough County last year than in any other county in Florida. The number of drownings spiked to 11 in 2018. That’s the highest in the state and more than the previous two years’ numbers combined. That same year, another six children drowned in Pasco County—two more than in 2017. Statewide, the

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AS PART OF NATIONAL WATER SAFET Y MONTH, THE YMCA E N C O U R A G E S PA R E N T S T O FOLLOW WATER SAFETY TIPS: • Supervise all water activities, never leaving a child alone.

• Throw, don’t go. Always toss a flotation device; never jump in to save.

• Always keep a phone near the pool to call 911 in case of an emergency.

• Never allow swimming in an unlit pool after dark.

• Keep non-pool toys like wagons and tricycles away from the pool.

• Test your child’s swim skills at the Y absolutely free.

• Add barriers around your pool, keeping all doors and gates locked.

• Remember to remove inflatable toys from the pool when not in use.

• Never permit diving in the shallow end of the pool.

•Make sure all gates and doors to the pool area are self-closing and self-latching.

istick.com/yamonstro

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The Y and the Florida Blue Foundation are committed to reducing these staggering statistics.

“Drowning can happen nearly anywhere with standing water,” says G. Scott Goyer, President and CEO of the YMCA of the Suncoast. “As a parent or caregiver, you need to equip your children with the tools they need to YMCAs be confident in and around water.”

Since data shows formal swim of Tampa lessons cut the risk of drowning by Bay offer 88%, the YMCAs of Tampa Bay are free Safety offering free Safety Around Water lessons to children throughout the Around year, thanks to a generous Florida Blue Foundation grant.

Water “One of the perks of living in lessons Tampa Bay is the abundance of water that surrounds us. From oceans to to kids springs to pools, it’s a part of our life throughout each day,” says David Pizzo, Florida Blue market president for West the year Florida. “Unfortunately, it can also be extremely hazardous for young children. As part of our mission to help people and communities achieve better health, we’re proud to support the YMCA’s work to equip young children and their families with essential water safety skills.”

The Safety Around Water program is free and open to the entire community, beginners and non-swimmers, ages 3-12 years. During the 4-day course, certified instructors teach kids a sequenced set of skills that will reduce the risk of drowning and give them confidence in and around water. Each 40-minute class includes exercises to help kids adjust to being in the water. Kids learn “Jump, Push, Turn, Grab” and “Swim, Float, Swim,” two skill sets they can use if they unexpectedly find themselves in the

water or in an area where they cannot touch bottom. Specific safety topics are covered including what to do if you see someone in the water who needs help.

You don’t have to be a YMCA member to participate in the free Safety Around Water program offered across five Y associations, including the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA, YMCA of the Suncoast, YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg, Manatee YMCA and Sarasota YMCA. Dates and times vary based on location. Log on to ymcatampabay.org/find-your-y/ and contact the Y closest to you!

QUIT YOUR WAY Quitting tobacco isn’t easy. Finding help should be.

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

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

Call to register

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

Program covers all forms of tobacco.

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

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

Chrissy Money M.S., CCC-SLP | Speech-Language Pathologist 813.434.3106 | chrissy@southtampaspeechtherapy.com | southtampaspeechtherapy.com 82

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RED LIGHT SPECIAL IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH WITH JOOVV LIGHT THERAPY

By Anu Varma Panchal

asking in the sun used to be a good thing. You’d get your dose of Vitamin D, go inside with a pleasant sense of well-being, and probably sleep better that night. Today, we know a few hours in direct sunlight can be dangerous for us unless we’ve slathered ourselves in the right type and amount of sunscreen and examined every mole with deep suspicion for weeks afterwards.

US Cryotherapy has a solution: the newly introduced Joovv Red Light Therapy, a device that lists among its benefits fat loss, muscle recovery, thyroid function, joint pain and skin improvement. Jeff Houghtaling, manager of US Cryotherapy at 1905 W. Kennedy Blvd. in South Tampa, says that just 10 minutes a day of controlled exposure to red light helps promote general well-being and better health.

“When people first got interested in this, we thought it was hokey,” says Houghtaling, who with the owner, Mark Sergi, spends extensive time researching and experimenting with new treatments on the market. “We don’t just jump on the bandwagon. But the more research we did, the more excited we got.”

B

With good reason: According to numerous scientific studies quoted on Joovv’s official website, exposure to ultralight or red light in the correct doses and at the correct wavelength has been shown to stimulate: • Mitochondria (our cells’ energy producing unit) to make more ATP (the energy that powers us).

• Collagen production in our body, improving skin elasticity and hair length.

• Production of antioxidants in the body, which helps tackle inflammation and stress.

• Activity in the lymphatic system, reducing swelling and inflammation.

• Melatonin output, leading to better sleep It’s so far not been shown to have any side effects and is safe to use as much as you want. But that doesn’t mean any red light will do. Houghtaling explains that red infrared light works at 2 wavelengths, at about 650 nanometers and 850 nanometers. At the lower range, the light is said to boost collagen production, which helps skin look clear, fade sunspots and stretch marks and lessen the frequency of breakouts. At the higher range, it penetrates muscles, helping with joint pain relief and stimulating cellular metabolism.

At US Cryotherapy, Joovv is installed in a room the size of a small walk-in closet. You’ll take off your clothes for maximum effectiveness and put on a pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from the lights, which can seem very bright at your first visit. You’ll find yourself standing between two rows of panels that have small red bulbs mounted in them. Once they are turned on, you’ll be bathed in a red light.

The overall effect is of standing in a warm patch of sunlight, with no discomfort, pain

or any sort of burning sensations. Once the 10 minutes are up, you get dressed, pay and leave.

Houghtaling himself uses it every day and is amused when clients ask him if he’s been dyeing his beard. He hasn’t, but he thinks that continual use of Joovv has stimulated more hair growth, which makes it look fuller and therefore darker.

“People are looking for alternatives to pharmaceuticals,” he says. “They are looking to be more productive, more efficient.”

When Houghtaling and Sergi were scouting for new technologies to introduce at US Cryotherapy, they were drawn to systems that stimulate the body to heal itself, rather than treating symptoms or interfering with nature. Instead, they use cold, light, heat and compression to stimulate your body to increase various metabolic processes. Using one or a combination of these therapies, they’ve found success helping clients who suffer from psoriasis, eczema and chronic pain. Many clients are athletes, and many staff members are involved in health and fitness fields as well. Houghtaling himself teaches jujitsu. But many clients are there simply for a sense of well-being that they can get in a short visit.

Treatments start at $25 for one, or a 10-pack for $159. You can also consider a monthly pass, which starts at $199 and can be used to mix and match all the services offered here, including the newest entry—iV BARS vitamindrip.

Says Houghtaling: “We are a one-stop wellness shop.”

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Mcilwain Dental Specialists Comprehensive Dental Care Under One Roof!

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Mc i lwa inDentistry.co m MAY 2019 TampaBayParenting.com

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Monster Jam World Finals Comes to Orlando, FL!

®

CAMPING WORLD STADIUM

MAY 10 – 11

Competitors shown are subject to change. © 2018 Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

MonsterJam.com

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get out and enjoy FAMILY FRIENDLY EVENTS YOU CAN'T MISS IN

MAY

TacoFest, Beer Bars, Margarita Bar, Taste of the Riverwalk, and much more. thetampariverwalk.com SAFARI OF FUN SPRING KIDS’ WEEKENDS May 4-5, 11-12, 18-19 Back for another year is Sesame Street Safari of Fun with the addition of a new member to the gang, Julia! Julia was added last month in honor of Autism Awareness Month. Join the Sesame Street family for fun-filled weekends including dance parties, crafts and more! buschgardens.com

THE PIGEON COMES TO TAMPA! A MO WILLEMS EXHIBIT Through May 12 Visit the world of Mo Willems and hang out with Elephant, Piggie, Knuffle Bunny and The Pigeon at Glazer Children Museum before the exhibit leaves on May 12. Children get to make their own crafts. glazermuseum.org EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FLOWER AND GARDEN FESTIVAL Through June 3 Experience spring through brilliant blooms, live entertainment, flavorful dishes and interactive playgrounds as a part of this annual springtime celebration at EPCOT in Orlando. This year, guests can check out outdoor kitchens, more than 70 Disney-themed topiaries, vibrant gardens, play areas, flower towers, exhibits, how-to-demos and outdoor concerts. disneyworld.com TODDLER TIME 10 a.m. to noon Wednesdays; 9-11 a.m. Sundays Jump into SkyZone Tampa for a couple of hours of fun with your little one every Wednesday and Sunday in May. Toddler time may also include character visits as an added bonus! $12.99 per toddler and one parent gets in free. skyzone.com

PARENT AND ME ICE SKATING CLASS 11-11:45 a.m. Wednesdays Every Wednesday in May, head over to Ice Sports Forum for a Parent and Me ice skating class. Learn the fundamentals and enjoy being in groups smaller than in the Learn-toSkate class. $10 for 2 skaters including rentals; $5 for each additional skater. theicesportsforum.com FAMILY FUN NIGHT May 3, 5:30 p.m.

Head over to Hyde Park Village for their monthly Family Fun Night. Enjoy arcade games, board games, cotton candy, popcorn and music while getting some unplugged time with the family and browsing the shops and restaurants. hydeparkvillage.com ISLAND PAWS PARTY May 3, 6-11 p.m.

Join the Humane Society of Tampa Bay for a sunset celebration to benefit homeless animals. Bigger and more popular than ever, the party is located at the Tampa Garden Club on Bayshore Blvd. Guests will enjoy dinner, dancing, cigars, music and a beautiful sunset.

Tickets can be purchased at islandpawsparty.com.

TAMPA RIVERFEST May 3-4, 4-10 p.m.

The 5th Annual Tampa Riverfest is a FREE event that will include a full concert line-up, Wiener Dog Derby, Gasparilla Stand-up Paddle Board Invasion, Tampa Bay Pride Band,

FIRST ANNUAL SENIOR-JUNIOR CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT May 4, 11 a.m.

Join Great Explorations as they launch their first annual senior-junior charity golf tournament. The event will be held at Cedar Links Golf Course and costs $90 per team for 9-hole, shotgun start and alternate ball tournament with chances to win additional prizes for chipping and putting contests.

Cost includes participation and lunch! More details at greatex. org.

BLOOMING ART May 4, 9 a.m. to noon Make a blooming art piece for Mom in a hands-on workshop at Home Depot. Build and decorate your artwork in a guided session, and bond with your little one while you build. homedepot.com

CHILDREN’S BOARD FREE TUESDAY May 7, Noon to 6 p.m.

Join The Children’s Board of Hillsborough County and the Glazer Museum for Free Tuesday on the first Tuesday of every month. Admission is free from noon to 6 p.m. The event promotes the well-being of children and families by uniting them with partners of the community. glazermuseum.org ANASTASIA May 7-12, times vary The Broadway hit "Anastasia" comes to the Straz this May. Don’t miss this classic tale and its enchanting music that tells the story of Anastasia as she finds out she is a long-lost Russian princess on the journey of a lifetime. strazcenter.org ART OUTDOORS AT CRACKER COUNTRY May 8, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

A day in the great outdoors with art lessons, historic buildings and Florida’s rural history.

Art workshops are designed for visitors 6 and older, through 5-year-olds are welcome to attend and test out their coloring skills. Bring a camera to tackle photography challenges. $8 per person 4 years old and up; kids 3 and younger are free. crackercountry.org

MOMMY & ME HIGH TEA May 5, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

The annual Mommy & Me High Tea is held at Armature Works Tampa and benefits Redefining Refuge. Enjoy an afternoon of tea and cookies as many vendors help you and your little one have a day to remember.

The Princesses from Parties with Character will be in attendance as well. mommyandmehightea.com MIMOSAS & MASTERPIECES: BRUNCH AT THE DALI May 5, 12, 19, 26, 11 a.m.

Make it a Sunday Funday at The Dali Museum as they host Mimosas & Masterpieces.

Menu changes weekly but the mimosas run all month long.

Find tickets at thedali.org.

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KRISTINA KUZMIC May 9, 8 p.m.

If you’ve seen her Facebook videos about the trials of parenting, you’ll love seeing the motivational speaker, comedian and social media influencer live at Ruth Eckerd Hall as she brings you parenting comedy at its finest! rutheckerdhall.com TODDLERDEGA May 5, 9-11 a.m.

Calling all mini-drivers ages 2-6: Bring your wheels and need for speed to St. Pete for a morning of racing fun. They supply the track; you supply the driver and vehicle. Vehicles are available for rent should you not have your own. Rules and pricing can be found at prokartexp.com.

MONSTER JAM May 10-11, 7 p.m.

Monster Jam is coming to Orlando this May for another round of flips, tricks, loud noises and all-out entertainment.

Don’t miss crowd favorites Grave Digger and Earthshaker. The event will be held at the Camping World Stadium and tickets can be purchased at monsterjam.com.

TAMPA TRAIN DAY May 11, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tampa Train Day returns to Tampa Union Station for its 12th year. Enjoy family-friendly activities, history exhibits, model train displays, live music, food trucks and more!

It’s also the 150th anniversary of the Golden Spike ceremony that marked the completion of the transcontinental railroad.

Free event.

POPS IN THE PARK May 12, 7:30 p.m.

Julian B. Lane park will host free event, Pops in the Park this month with conductor Daniel Black leading the orchestra in a lineup sure to entertain the entire family.

portunities with cast reunions from “Back To The Future,” “Boy Meets World,” “The All New Mickey Mouse Club” and more. megaconorlando.com NPCF FASHION FUNDS THE CURE May 17, 6:30 p.m.

The National Pediatric Cancer Foundation is hosting a fashion show honoring kids that are battling cancer. The event is held at Raymond James Stadium with all proceeds benefitting the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation. You can purchase tickets or donate at nationalpcf.org/fashiontampa.

GROWN UP NIGHT May 17, 5:30-8 p.m.

Take a night off and play like a child at Glazer Children’s Museum. With admission, enjoy complimentary snacks and beer while supplies last, courtesy of Florida Avenue Brewing.

Cash bar is also available. glazermuseum.org KRISTIN CHENOWETH May 17, 8 p.m.

The star is coming to Ruth Eckerd Hall for an intimate evening of music and theatre as she performs an array of her most iconic roles and musical numbers for your entertainment. rutheckerdhall.com 2019 RUN FOR ALL CHILDREN May 18, 7-11 a.m.

Participate in the 10K, 5K, or 1-mile fun run benefiting Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital. Get your heart pumping for a good cause and don’t forget to stick around for the post-race celebration! runsignup.com

from local restaurants. One hundred percent of proceeds from ticket sales go back into supporting their mission. Enjoy live music and the opportunity to see all the plants and animals that call the aquarium home. flaquarium.org FOURTH FRIDAY DROP-OFF CAMP May 24, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Drop off your kiddos for an evening of fun at Glazer Children’s Museum’s new camp and head off to enjoy all that Fourth Fridays in Downtown Tampa has to offer. Pre-register or pay at the door. glazermuseum.org RASCAL FLATTS May 24, 7 p.m.

Rascal Flatts is heading to Tampa for a one night only show at the MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre. Tickets start at just $28. midflorida.com MARGARITA FEST May 25, Noon to 11 p.m.

Margarita Fest is back in an all new location – Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park. Celebrate Memorial weekend the right way with live music, great food, games, shopping and, of course, endless margaritas. To top it all off, end the night with largest fireworks show in the area! Tickets can be purchased at tampamargaritafest.com.

ICE CREAM 5K May 25, 8 a.m. to Noon Get your running shoes on and head to Al Lopez park for a 5k to Benefit Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital. Offering a baby/toddler crawl/run, a kids 1 mile run and a 5K for a full day of family-fun. Don’t forget there will be loads of yummy ice cream to go around! icecreamrun5k.com

SPECIAL NEEDS EVENTS SENSORY SENSITIVE SUNDAYS May 5, 9-11 a.m Stop by your local Chuck E. Cheese two hours before regular operating hours for a morning of sensory-friendly fun in a safe environment with reduced lighting and noise, food, games and fun for everyone. Trained staff members will be on site. chuckecheese.com SENSORY-FRIENDLY SATURDAYS May 4 and 18, 9-10 a.m.

Children with sensory needs are invited to come out to Altitude Trampoline Park in Tampa and jump in a safe, sensory-friendly environment with low music and no crowded parties. One accompanying parent to a sensory-friendly child jumps for free. All others can jump for a lowered cost of $11.95 per person. altitudetampa.com SUNSHINE SUNDAY May 26, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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

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

SEAGRAPES May 18, 8 p.m.

Back for another year, The Florida Aquarium is hosting their annual fundraiser: SeaGrapes, featuring more than 100 types of wine and food

JAZZ JAM May 14, 7 p.m.

Patel Conservatory presents their Jazz Combo and improv classes in an evening of jazz standards, original works and improvisations, sponsored in part by Valley Bank. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at strazcenter.org.

MEGACON ™ May 16-19, times vary MEGACON™, the Southeast’s largest fan convention, returns to the Orange County Convention Center Thursday, May 16 through Sunday, May 19. This year, MEGACON™ Orlando will host once-in-a-lifetime op-

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CHECK OUT THE FULL LIST OF EVENTS AT TAMPABAYPARENTING.COM

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.com

#TAMPABAYPARENTING

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

[ TAMPABAYDATENIGHTGUIDE.COM ] [ COMING IN JUNE ]

10+

LOCAL DADS WHO ARE INVENTING COOL NEW PRODUCTS LIKE SENSE A LIFE, WHICH PREVENTS HOT CAR DEATHS

HEALTHY PLACES TO TASTE AN ACAI BOWL IN TAMPA BAY Ever tried an acai bowl?

They're a cool, refreshing and hearty breakfast or late afternoon pick-me-up.

Treat yourself and splurge on all the yummiest spots on our list.

TradeWinds Island Resort in St. Pete Beach

GRAB YOUR BESTIES FOR A GIRLS NIGHT

Escape the same ol’ happy hour haunt or wine bar and instead opt for a Tampa girls’ night out by air, sea or land. From the extreme to the slightly wacky, there are a variety of fun, outdoor options perfect for you and your girl tribe.

Check out our list of day trips in Tampa Bay for families

B E ST DAY E VE R FU N DAY TR I P S I N TA M PA BAY FESTIVAL DATE NIGHTS Tampa Bay has some amazing festivals happening over the next two months.

Check out over 20 festivals happening in our own backyard.

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INSTA LOVE LEGOLAND FLORIDA we got a first look at the newly opened LEGO Movie World.

tampabayparentingmagazine

JELLIES! The new exhibt at the Florida Aquarium Moon Bay opens early Summer 2019 and will feature a touch tank.

@ tampabayparenting

THE TECO LINE STREETCAR SERVICE expanded in April to run every 15 minutes, 7 days a week. It's free to ride!

@TBParenting

What Parents Talk About When They Talk About Learning: A National Survey About Young Children and Science

99%

of parents

want to be involved in their child’s education

85%

of parents

say their children will not learn everything they need to know in school

A new survey asked parents about their attitudes, beliefs and practices related to early learning and early science learning.

7 out of 10 parents

say having ideas for doing science with everyday materials would help them do a lot more science at home

edc.org/what-parents-talk-about

Visit pbs.org/parents for ways to make learning part of your everyday routine. Sign up for the WEDU EdConnect monthly e-newsletter at wedu.org/subscribe to learn about upcoming events, workshops, educational resources, parenting tips and more!

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summer

camps

lightning girls summer camp

ice hockey summer camp

July 15 – 19 · Amalie Arena

Clearwater Ice Arena

Ages 6-10 are welcome!

Power Pole Arena Home of Xtra Ice

Pre-registration $225/After $250 *Pre-registration ends May 1st.

TampaBayLightning.com/LGSummerCamp

June 3-7

June 24-28

Brandon Ice Sports Forum July 15-19

10 and under skater $425 • goalie $400 15 and under skater $450 • goalie $425 *Pricing is subject to change

girls only

entry level

ice hockey summer camp

ice hockey summer camp

June 10 – 14 Brandon Ice Sports Forum

Designed for players with less than 2 years experience

10 and under skater $425 • goalie $400 15 and under skater $450 • goalie $425 *Pricing is subject to change

Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex July 26-28

Advent Health Center Ice August 2-4

lightning made training center

summer camp June 3 - August 9

Summer camp will include sports, crafts and entertainment for kids to enjoy all day long!

Ages K-2, 3rd-5th, 6th-8th $225 per week *Pricing is subject to change

5-10 Years Old Skater $225 • goalie $175 *Pricing is subject to change

For more info and to register, please visit:

TampaBayLightning.com/LMSummerCamps

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Connect with us @FlyTPA