Letter From The Publisher
July Greetings,
It feels like school just let out, and yet somehow, we’re already halfway through summer! With just over a month to go before the back-to-school rush begins, I hope your family is soaking up all the sunny moments (preferably with some shade and a popsicle nearby).
In our 14th annual Beat the Heat issue, we’ve rounded up creative and fun ways to stay cool during South Florida’s steamy summer months. From splashy activities to local events and our go-to summer survival tips, this issue is your guide to making the most of the season while keeping the heat at bay.
In true summertime fashion, my kids have been enjoying camp, and my oldest is volunteering— it’s been wonderful to see them active and engaged. Summer always seems to fly by, so I’m soaking in these long, sunny days while they last. Whether it’s lazy mornings, weekend outings, or spontaneous ice cream runs, these little moments are what make the season so special.
As the countdown to school begins, I encourage you to savor the slower pace and squeeze in a few more memory-making adventures. Whether you’re road-tripping, relaxing, or just staying cool at home, may your summer be joyful and refreshing.
Happy Parenting,
Volume 14, Issue 7 | July 2025
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10 Ways To Keep Cool When It’s Really Hot!
Wow, it is hot out! Keeping cool in South Florida can be challenging, especially when temperatures frequently reach into the mid-90s and even higher for the next several months.
Staying cool isn't just about comfort—it's critical for your health and safety. Dangerously high temperatures can result in serious heatrelated illnesses, ranging from heat cramps and heat exhaustion to the life-threatening condition known as heat stroke.
Signs of heat exhaustion include:
• Heavy sweating
• Cold, pale, and clammy skin
• Fast, weak pulse
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle cramps
• Tiredness or weakness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Fainting (passing out)
If you think you or someone else may be suffering from heat exhaustion, it's important to act quickly. Move to a cool, shaded place, loosen clothing, apply cool, wet cloths to the skin, or take a cool bath, and slowly sip water. Seek immediate medical attention if vomiting occurs, symptoms worsen, or symptoms persist for longer than an hour.
Heat stroke, an even more serious condition, has the following symptoms:
• High body temperature (103°F or higher)
• Hot, red, dry, or damp skin
• Fast, strong pulse
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Confusion
• Losing consciousness (passing out)
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. If you
suspect heat stroke, call 911 immediately. Move the affected person to a cooler location and use cool, wet cloths or a cool bath to lower their temperature. Do not give the person anything to drink.
Here are several additional tips to help you stay cool, safe, and comfortable all summer long:
1. Schedule outdoor activities or exercise during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening.
2. Whenever outside, seek shade and avoid direct sunlight during peak hours (10 AM to 4 PM).
3. Choose loose-fitting, lightweight, and lightcolored clothing. Breathable fabrics like cotton will help keep you cooler than many synthetic materials.
4. Keep a spray bottle filled with cold water in the refrigerator for a refreshing face mist after spending time outdoors, or carry it with you for instant cooling relief.
5. Use fans to help circulate air and provide additional cooling, even in air-conditioned environments.
6. Refrigerate lotions or cosmetic toners for soothing relief, especially for hot, tired feet after a long day.
7. Freeze plastic bottles of water ahead of time. Grab one when heading outdoors, and as the ice melts, you'll have cold water ready to drink.
8. Take frequent cool showers or baths to lower your body temperature and feel refreshed.
9. Drink plenty of fluids, including water and electrolyte-rich beverages, to stay hydrated. Limit caffeine and alcohol intake, as they can accelerate dehydration.
10. Choose lighter, cooler foods during hot weather, like cold fruits, salads, smoothies, or low-fat dairy snacks. Eating smaller meals frequently can also prevent overheating, and you'll avoid extra heat from cooking.
Finally, trust your instincts. If the heat feels unbearable, stay indoors whenever possible and minimize outdoor activities. Avoid hot surfaces like asphalt. Keep an eye on those who are particularly vulnerable, such as the elderly, infants, children, and anyone with chronic health conditions, since they're at higher risk for heat-related illnesses. Don’t forget about your pets—they also require protection from extreme heat and dehydration.
For more helpful information and resources on dealing with extreme heat, visit the CDC's webpage at (https://www.cdc.gov/heat-health/ about/index.html).
Manatee Lagoon Launches Plastic Free July Initiative to Promote Environmental Awareness
Manatee Lagoon is bringing back Plastic Free July, a month-long educational initiative aimed at raising awareness about the environmental impacts of plastic. Committed to inspiring individuals and communities to take action towards a plastic-free future, Manatee Lagoon will offer educational content and free events, including a lecture on plastics and a fun #PlasticFree4Manatees social media campaign that encourage individuals to join the movement towards plastic-free living.
On Sunday, July 13 at 2 p.m., Manatee Lagoon will host its July Lecture at the Lagoon. Dive into a world of eco-friendly practices as our expert environmental speakers spotlight the global plastic crisis and its effects on marine life. Enjoy delicious offerings from onsite food trucks and leave inspired to make a difference. Attendees are encouraged to register for the lecture at VisitManateeLagoon.com.
As part of the initiative, Manatee Lagoon’s Manatee Tales Story Time on Saturday, July 26 at 10:30 a.m. will feature “The Mess That We Made.” This story highlights the impact of trash and plastic on the ocean and marine life. Attendees can enjoy the tale brought to life, followed by a themed craft activity. Registration is required.
"We are excited to take our dedication to the environment to new heights with Plastic Free July and invite individuals, families and businesses to be part of the collective effort to combat plastic pollution," said Manatee Lagoon Education and Outreach Specialist Heather Seaman. "By raising awareness, encouraging behavior change and promoting the four 'R's (refuse, reduce, reuse, recycle), we believe we can make a significant impact in protecting our precious marine ecosystems."
Throughout the month of July, Manatee Lagoon
is encouraging the community to participate in a beach cleanup at Loggerhead Marinelife Center to take action against littering. Volunteers can sign up at https://marinelife.org/conservation/beachcleanups/ and select a Saturday to attend.
For more information and to stay up to date with Manatee Lagoon's Plastic Free July initiatives, please visit www.VisitManateeLagoon.com and follow the hashtag #PlasticFreeForManatees.
Manatee Lagoon – An FPL Eco-Discovery Center® is a free Palm Beach County educational attraction with a dedicated area to view manatees up close. The 16,000-square-foot center features engaging, hands-on exhibits for visitors to learn all about the unique creatures as well as the natural wonders of the surrounding Lake Worth Lagoon. Manatee Lagoon also offers digital resources and educational virtual content for manatee fans near and far on its website: VisitManateeLagoon.com. The center is open Tuesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., except for major holidays.
Plastic-Free Tips for Everyday Life
Small swaps make a big difference—for the planet and our manatees!
• Store food in glass or stainless containers
• Bring reusable bags and produce sacks to the grocery store
• Choose products in cardboard, glass, or metal over plastic packaging
• If that is not an option, choose items with minimal or recyclable packaging
• Buy in bulk and avoid individually packaged snacks
• Carry a reusable water bottle and utensils
• Say “no” to plastic straws, lids, and cutlery - bring your own stainless straw
• Pack lunches in reusable containers
Protect marine life—go plastic-free this July! Follow along: #PlasticFree4Manatees VisitManateeLagoon.com
Personalized Learning Plan for Each Student
Flexible Scheduling
Customized Support from Academic Coaches, Teachers, and Tutors
Accredited, 300+ Course Catalog
Individual Learning Spaces, Small Groups, and 1:1 Instruction Opportunities
Beat theHeat guide
Welcome to our 14th annual Beat the Heat Guide. This guide is an excellent resource for the summer when the temperatures outside can reach past 90 degrees and feel like 100. PB Parenting has put together some of our favorite places to visit during the summertime (and year-round). There are also some great indoor options for rainy days or the ever-present afternoon thunderstorms. This resource directory is available online all year at www.pbparenting.com.
Cox Science Center and Aquarium is the perfect destination to beat the heat! Enjoy cool science exhibits, and check out the Aquarium with Live Science Demonstrations, Aquarium Feedings and Alligator Pettings. Also, be sure to check out the indoor Discovery Center and take in a show in the only full-dome planetarium in Palm Beach County. There will be some changes coming up but we will be open during construction so come on in! Located at 4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach, FL 33405. Call (561) 832-1988 or visit www. coxsciencecenter.org for more information.
Crayola Experience is Orlano's most colorful family destination for interactive creative play. Discover the Magic of Color with
20+ hands-on activities inspired by Crayola. The average length of stay is 3-4 hours. General admission includes access to the facility for the entire day. Food and beverages are available at the Cafe Crayola. Shop for the largest selection of Crayola products and unique souvenirs at the Crayola Store. Conveniently located at the Florida Mall, minutes away from the Orlando International Airport. Free Parking. Buy tickets online and save $5 off general admission with code PB Parenting (expires 9/31/25.) Learn more at CrayolaExperience.com.
Loggerhead Marinelife Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit education and ocean conservation facility located right on Juno Beach. The facility houses a variety of exhibits coastal creatures, and live sea turtle and hatchlings being rehabilitated at their sea
turtle hospital (the only one between Orlando and the Florida Keys). Exhibits include a massive prehistoric Archelon sea turtle replica, salt water aquaria and displays of local wildlife, as well as educational displays about South Florida's marine environment. Learn more at www.marinelife.org.
Manatee Lagoon –
An FPL Eco-Discovery Center® is a FREE Palm Beach County educational attraction with a dedicated area for viewing manatees up close. The 16,000-square-foot center features engaging, hands-on exhibits for visitors to learn all about these threatened and unique creatures as well as the natural wonders of the surrounding Lake Worth Lagoon. To learn
more including about their virtual summer camp go to www.visitmanateelagoon.com.
McKee Botanical Gardens Children’s Garden The one-acre Children’s Garden features a grand discovery tree with a pirate shipwreck, a monkey bridge, a waterlily fountain and splash garden, a reading circle, fairy forest and more. The mission of the Children’s Garden at McKee is to create a fun and whimsical outdoor destination that inspires imagination and curiosity in children through interaction, education and exploration. The Children’s Garden is open Tuesday – Saturday 10:00 am – 4:30 pm and Sunday 12:00 pm – 4:30 pm. The last ticket is sold at 4 pm. The Children’s Garden closes at 4:30 pm.The Children’s Garden closes at 4:30 pm. Admission: $15 Adults, $13 Seniors (65+)/Youth (13-17), Children (2-12) $10. McKee members and children under 2 free.
Check our website for daily children’s activities in the Children’s Garden
U M M E R
Sean Kenney’s CONNECTS
McKee Botanical Garden is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to nurture and enhance a historic garden in a unique tropical setting for the education, enjoyment and enrichment of all. McKee Botanical Garden is located at 350 US Highway 1 in Vero Beach. For more information, call 772-794-0601 or go to www.mckeechildrensgarden.org
PB Skate Zone - Looking to beat the heat? Hit the ice!
Palm Beach Skate Zone offers public ice skating 7 days a week for all ages—perfect for families, friends, or a fun solo activity. No experience needed—just lace up and glide! Whether you're trying something new or making it a weekly tradition, public skating is a fun, affordable way to stay active and cool all year long. We also offer ice skating classes, summer camps, figure skating, and youth & adult hockey programs. Check times and plan your visit: pbskatezone.com
Summer Series Adventure Awaits
July 2 - Florida Public Archaeology Network/ FAU Anthropology Department
July 9 - Manatee Lagoon
July 16 - Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum NASA Launch Services Program
July 23 - Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens
July 30 - Palm Beach County Animal Care & Control
August 6 - Boynton Beach Library
Join us for fun, engaging kids programs!
WEDNESDAYS 9:30 AM
*Check-in at the front desk required. Limited Space Available FREE WITH PAID ADMISSION
For more information visit: schoolhousemuseum.org
Discovery Center offers a glimpse into South Florida’s fragile marine and freshwater environments through educational exhibits and programs. Visitors of all ages can get an up-close view of sharks and other fish in our coral reef pool, native and invasive reptiles and amphibians, shells in our world-class shell collection, butterfly garden and native dune, Reggie the skunk and screech owl in our nocturnal room and more! Shark and Stingray Feedings daily. Learn a multitude of fun and interesting facts about the ocean’s top predators, while watching them eat their breakfast. All ages can touch stingrays in our NEW stingray touch tank. Open Tues.-Fri. from 12 PM – 4 PM, Saturdays 10am-4pm, and
Sundays 12 PM – 4 PM. Closed Mondays and all major holidays. Save time and buy your tickets online. www.sandoway.org.
schoolhousemuseum.org
Schoolhouse Children’s Museum - Enjoy a historical journey and live life as a pioneer. Explore the museum where learning is an adventure for children ages 1-7 (for mom and dad too!) with Story N’ More and other programs. Play and learn on two floors of interactive exhibits. Hours of Operation are Tuesday - Saturday 9:00am - 4:30pm. 129 E. Ocean Avenue, Boynton
Beach. Reservations strongly recommended. See website for detailed information for your safety and to schedule a visit www. schoolhousemuseum.org or call 561-7426780. Keep cool at camp! There are many summer camps that still have immediate openings! Please check out our online camp directory for a complete listing at www.pbparenting.com/ summer-camp/.
Why Summer is the Perfect Time to Simplify and How to Start
BY AMY BERGMAN
Summer often comes with a slower pace, looser schedules, and a little more breathing room. It’s also the perfect opportunity to get ahead on the kinds of small organizing tasks that will make your home feel calmer and more in control once the back-to-school season hits. That’s exactly why I created the Summer Simplify List, a free, practical guide for families who want to use this season to get a few key things in order. These aren’t big renovation projects or major overhauls. The focus is on small, realistic wins that make a meaningful difference.
As a professional organizer, I see it every year. The return to school throws families into a whirlwind with new routines, packed schedules, early mornings, and lots of moving parts. And while that’s normal, it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. A bit of preparation now can take a lot of pressure off later.
The Summer Simplify List is broken down into two main categories: home organization and back-to-
school prep. Each section gives you clear, doable action steps to help your household feel a little lighter, a little more ready, and a lot less stressed.
You might start by decluttering kids’ closets and donating clothes they’ve outgrown. Or maybe it’s time to set up a designated space for homework, or finally establish a central family calendar where everyone can see what’s coming up. These small projects don’t take a ton of time, but they clear mental and physical clutter and that’s exactly what makes routines easier to stick with once school starts.
If you’ve ever found yourself rushing to book doctor appointments, or digging through drawers for that one last glue stick the night before school starts, this guide is for you. It covers everything from cleaning high-traffic areas to setting up a drop zone for shoes and backpacks, so things land where they belong from day one.
But one of the biggest benefits? Doing this as a
family helps kids feel more grounded too. Involving them in the process, whether it’s sorting supplies or helping choose a backpack spot, teaches them ownership over their space and their routines. It can even turn into a fun summer project that you tackle together in short bursts.
I created this list to make it easy to know where to start and what to prioritize. I’ve seen firsthand how even the simplest systems, when done thoughtfully, can change the way your home feels and functions. I’m happy to share this guide with you, and I hope it gives you some clarity and motivation to take action on the things that really matter. You can download the full Summer Simplify List here!
Take what works for your family and leave the rest. Even checking off just a few of these can make the
transition to fall more peaceful and less chaotic. And if you ever feel stuck or unsure where to start, know that you’re not alone. This is exactly the kind of work I love helping families with. Because the goal isn’t just to organize stuff, it’s to create space for what matters most. Amyzingly yours, Amy
As a seasoned professional organizer in Palm Beach County, Amy Bergman is dedicated to helping individuals and businesses unlock the full potential of their spaces. With a passion for simplifying and streamlining, Amy creates personalized systems and solutions that cater to each client's unique needs, freeing up time and energy for what truly matters. Explore her website http://www.amyzingspaces.com to discover how she brings order, clarity, and calm to every space she works with, empowering her clients to achieve even greater efficiency, productivity, and peace of mind.
EVENTS & Things to Do
Sensational Summer Series at the Schoolhouse Children’s
What are your plans before the fireworks on July 4th? Kick off your Independence Day celebrations early with our family-friendly daytime event! Enjoy explosive science shows, hands-on activities, animal encounters, and full access to all exhibits— including our brand new summer feature: Mission Aerospace.
Activities and Presentations Throughout the Day:
All-Day Access to all Science Center exhibits, including Mission Aerospace Touch Tank Experience | 10:45am – 11:00am Science of Fire Show | 12:30pm Alligator Petting | 2:00pm – 2:15pm Patriotic Crafts | Ongoing all day at STEAM Studio Planetarium Shows
11:00am - One World, One Sky: Big Bird's Adventure 12:00pm - Dynamic Earth
1:00 pm - One World, One Sky: Big Bird's Adventure
2:00 pm - Night Skies Above the Palm Beaches
3:00 pm - Astronaut
4:00 pm - Black Holes
Activities are included in regular Science Center admission and are free for members. For questions, please call the main line at 561-832-1988 All ages welcome.
DIFFERENT THEME EACH WEEK, with classes matching the theme and special visitors and activities each Wednesday at 9:30 AM. THE THEME THE WEEK OF…
July 2 - Florida Public Archaeology Network
July 9 - Manatee Lagoon
July 16 - Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum
July 16 - NASA Launch Services Program Two Sessions: 11:00-11:45 and 11:45-12:30
July 23 - Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens
July 30 - Palm Beach Animal Care and Control
August 6 - Boynton Beach Library
For more information and a complete calendar go to https://www.schoolhousemuseum.org/p/73.
Friday, July 4 | 10:00AM–2:00PM
Palm Beach Skate Zone
Celebrate the COOLEST 4th of July in South Florida with us! Chill out on the ice and enjoy a day packed with fun for the whole family: Snow falling on the rink
Patriotic giveaways for the first 50 kids
On-ice games & prizes
Music, laughs & nonstop FUN
Admission: $16 at the door | $19 online
Get your tickets early at pbskatezone.com
Start your holiday with a blast — bring your skates, your friends, and your festive spirit!
Shark Preservation Week at the Science Center | July 7th - July 13th
Join Cox Science Center and Aquarium for a jawsome week celebrating one of the ocean’s most respected predators - the shark! Enjoy hands-on activities, exclusive presentations, and oceanthemed fun for the whole family. Check out the daily activities here - https://www.coxsciencecenter. org/event/shark-preservation-week
Manatee Lagoon’s Manatee Tales Story Time on Saturday, July 26 at 10:30 a.m. will feature “The Mess That We Made.” This story highlights the impact of trash and plastic on the ocean and marine life. Attendees can enjoy the tale brought to life, followed by a themed craft activity. Registration is required. https://www.visitmanateelagoon.com/ manatee-tales-story-time/
Tickets On Sale Now
Save
the Date
Disney On Ice: Moana 2 Experience Amerant Bank Arena – Sunrise, FL September 11–14, 2025
Get ready to journey into the dazzling world of Moana 2 with Disney On Ice! Upgrade your experience to meet Moana, hear her latest tales, and capture magical photos. Plus, don’t miss a special appearance by Mickey Mouse! Tickets available at DisneyOnIce.com
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