PB Parenting

Letter From The Publisher

Greetings,

As we settle into the rhythm of the school year, this issue also brings a special focus on one of life’s greatest adventures—welcoming a new baby. Our Baby & Maternity Issue is filled with support, inspiration, and resources for families at every stage, whether you’re preparing for your first little one or juggling the busy days of parenting multiples.

On page 8, local organizer and mom of two, Amy Bergman, shares The Whole-Home Baby Plan: Organizing for Life with a Little One, full of practical advice for creating spaces that truly work for your growing family. You’ll also find encouragement for the school-aged years with our look at the benefits of after-school enrichment programs on page 14, as well as expert guidance from Hayley Schapiro, LCSW, on building executive function skills to help children thrive. And of course, don’t miss our Enrichment Guide on page 16, available yearround on www.pbparenting.com, to help you discover activities that spark joy and growth for your child.

Parenthood is a journey that constantly shifts from preparing the nursery to planning afterschool pick-ups and we’re honored to be a companion along the way. Remember to savor the little moments, lean on your village, and give yourself grace as you embrace the season you’re in.

Happy Parenting,

Volume 14, Issue 9 | September 2025

PUBLISHER

Felonice Merriman

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Jennifer Preville

GRAPHIC DESIGN/PRODUCTION

Felonice Designs, LLC

Stephanie Davis

COVER PHOTO BY: Lynn of Lynn Studios www.lynnstudios1.com

WRITERS & CONTRIBUTORS

BabyCenter

Amy Bergman

Maltz Jupiter Theatre

Felonice Merriman

Hayley Schapiro, LCSW

CONTACT PB PARENTING BY MAIL11924 W. Forest Hill Blvd. Suite 10A-146 Wellington, FL 33414

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Parenting Magazine is

monthly in Palm Beach County, Florida. Copyright 2012-2025, all rights reserved by PB Parenting, LLC. Contents may not be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising. The publisher accepts no responsibility for advertisement errors beyond the cost of the portion of the advertisement occupied by the error within the advertisement itself. The publisher accepts no responsibility for submitted materials. All submitted materials subject to editing.

One Does Pediatric Orthopedics in South Florida Like We Do

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PB Picks

Make and prep meals and snacks for your little ones with the Glass Prep Jars from KeaBabies! From perfectly portioned yogurt + fruit, applesauce or purees, and small finger foods, such as crackers, the airtight, leak-proof lids seal in freshness and prevent spills while onthe-go! The perfect homemade food storage solution for you and your children are available in an array of gorgeous colors. The jars are dishwasher-safe, freezer-safe and microwavable, too. BPA-Free. Visit https://keababies.com/collections/baby-food-jars and Amazon.com.

Give your little one the comfort of home at nap time! Made from 100% organic cotton, My Little Dreamy Pillow: Jumbo is the perfect sleep companion for naps at daycare, home or away! Its soft, gentle design ensures a restful night’s sleep, while its machine-washable durability keeps it fresh and fluffy. Thoughtfully crafted with an ergonomic 14x20 size and Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX® certification, this pillow is a natural and safe choice for your child. Available in 20 vibrant colors and playful patterns to match their personality, it's ready to be packed for preschool and beyond!

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The Whole-Home Baby Plan: Organizing for Life with a Little One

BY AMY BERGMAN

“Your baby will spend just as much time outside the nursery as in it. Every room in your home can be babyready and still beautiful.” -Amy Bergman, Professional Organizer and Mom of 2.

When you’re expecting a new baby, the nursery often takes center stage. The paint swatches, the crib, the adorable onesies neatly folded in the dresser, it’s an exciting project. But here’s the truth: your baby will spend just as much (if not more) time outside of that room. From your kitchen to your car, every corner of your home will soon play a role in caring for your little one. Thinking ahead about how to organize these spaces will make life smoother, less stressful, and yes, even a little prettier.

1. The Kitchen: Baby’s Feeding Headquarters Long before your baby moves to solid food, the

kitchen will become a hub of activity. Consider dedicating a cabinet or shelf to bottles, nipples, a drying rack, and formula or breast milk storage bags. As your baby grows, that space will evolve to include sippy cups, baby spoons, tiny bowls, and snack containers. If space is tight, a rolling cart can be a lifesaver, keeping feeding supplies contained but mobile. Use labeled bins/baskets within the cabinet to corral small items to make cleanup quicker.

2. The Bathroom: Bath Time Bliss

Your bathroom will likely need a corner (or more) for baby gear, think infant tubs, bath seats, washcloths, hooded towels, and baby-safe toiletries. A clear plastic bin under the sink can hold daily essentials, while a wall hook or over-the-door rack is perfect for drying towels between baths.nIf you have more than one bathroom, consider storing a small set

of baby bath items in each, especially helpful for nighttime or unexpected messes.

3. The Car & Garage: On-the-Go Organization

Your baby’s gear doesn’t stop at your front door. Car seats, strollers, carriers, diaper bags, and even portable playpens will need homes in your car or garage. A sturdy shelving unit in the garage can keep items like travel cribs, stroller attachments, and outdoor toys accessible but off the floor. For your car, a backseat organizer is a smart investment, it keeps spare diapers, wipes, blankets, and toys neatly in place for those inevitable “emergency” moments.

The Family Room: Everyday Essentials Within

Reach - The family room often becomes the heart of daily life with a baby. You might want a secondary changing station here to avoid constant trips to the nursery. A basket or storage ottoman can hold diapers, wipes, burp cloths, and a change of clothes. Consider a woven chest or lidded basket for toys, bouncy seats, or play mats, something that blends

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with your décor but still makes cleanup quick at the end of the day.

5. The Dining Area: Feeding Made Simple

Once your baby starts solids, your dining space will need to adapt. High chairs, booster seats, and toddler-friendly placemats all require storage. If you don’t have room to leave the high chair out, look for a foldable model that tucks neatly into a closet or pantry when not in use. Keep a small bin or caddy nearby stocked with bibs, spoons, and bowls so you’re not hunting for them at mealtime.

6. Keep It Tidy, Keep It Beautiful

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of baby gear. The key is creating designated homes for everything. Baskets, bins, and furniture with hidden storage help contain the chaos without sacrificing style. Rotate toys and baby items, keeping only what you need for the current stage within reach and store the rest.

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Pro Organizer Tips for Baby-Friendly Spaces

• Car Kit – Keep a small bin in your trunk with extra diapers, wipes, a blanket, and a change of clothes.

• Stage-by-Stage Storage – Store baby items you don’t need yet (like high chair gear) in labeled bins so they’re ready when the time comes.

• One In, One Out Rule – When new toys or clothes arrive, donate or store items your baby has outgrown.

• Evening Reset – Spend 5 minutes every night putting baby items back in their baskets or bins. Tomorrow’s you will thank you.

• Hidden Storage – Use ottomans, woven chests, or side tables with lids to keep gear handy but out of sight.

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Welcoming a baby is joyful, life-changing, and yes, sometimes messy. By thinking beyond the nursery and setting up intentional spaces throughout your home, you’ll save yourself countless moments of frustration. More importantly, you’ll create a home that supports your growing family in comfort and ease, one organized space at a time. If you’re nesting and want more inspiration, you’ll find plenty of baby-friendly organizing ideas on my blog just click here to explore. XOXO, Amy

Amyzing Spaces provides professional organization for your home & office! Amy Bergman is a professional organizer serving Palm Beach County who has always had a passion for organizing & simplifying things in life. She would love to help you make your space Amyzing!!! Check her out at www.amyzingspaces.com, or on Facebook or Instagram and you will see how she works with her clients to organize spaces in their homes & offices, creating systems that work for them so they can achieve more calm in their space and be even more productive & efficient with their time.

Baby Bucket List: Things to Do Before Your Little One Arrives

Before your world fills with lullabies, late-night feedings, and lots of love, here are a few fun (and practical!) things to check off your Baby Bucket List:

• Go on one last date night – dress up, eat dessert first, and linger as long as you like.

• Take a weekend getaway (a “babymoon”) –even if it’s just a cozy staycation.

• Binge a TV series guilt-free – uninterrupted marathons are about to be history.

• Sleep in – bank those zzz’s while you still can.

• Stock the freezer with easy meals (future you will say THANK YOU).

• Have a spa day at home or book a day –bubble bath, face mask, fancy lotion… the works.

• Host a game night or brunch with friends –your social life is about to look a little different.

• Finish the baby prep basics – car seat installed, crib ready, diapers stacked.

• Create a “first playlist” – songs you’ll want to play when you bring baby home.

• Write a note to your future self (or your baby) – a sweet keepsake for later.

• Take a belly photo shoot – pro pics (send Lynn of Lynn Studios a message - she shot our cover! www.lynnstudios1.com) or just a silly selfie session with your partner.

• Plan a “last hurrah” outing – your favorite restaurant, concert, or local event.

• Indulge in your favorite treat – whether it’s ice cream sundaes, sushi (after!), or that fancy latte.

Think of it as your pre-baby celebration list: a mix of fun memories and smart prep that’ll make those first newborn weeks a little smoother and a lot sweeter.

Top baby names so far this year

Picking the perfect name for your newborn is no easy task! Here are the top baby names so far in 2025 based on popularity at babycenter.com.

10 Benefits of After-School Enrichment Programs

After-school enrichment programs provide children with meaningful opportunities that extend beyond the classroom. They build practical skills, nurture creativity, and foster personal growth in ways that can shape both academic success and lifelong development.

1. Time Management: Balancing schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and enrichment teaches students how to manage their time effectively, a skill that benefits both academic progress and personal growth.

2. Critical Thinking: Many programs encourage children to think outside the box through puzzles, projects, or strategy-based activities. These experiences strengthen problem-solving and analytical skills that carry over into everyday life.

3. Responsibility & Accountability: By committing to assignments, group work, or performances, children learn what it means to follow through, take ownership, and meet expectations, skills that prepare them for future responsibilities.

4. Curiosity & Lifelong Learning: Exposure to new subjects, hobbies, and challenges sparks curiosity and inspires children to keep exploring. When learning feels fun and engaging, students are more likely to develop a love of education that lasts well beyond school.

5. Communication & Presentation Skills: Whether through public speaking, creative performances, or collaborative teamwork,

enrichment gives students the confidence to share their ideas and express themselves effectively.

6. Adaptability & Resilience: Programs often introduce children to new environments, challenges, and peers. Overcoming obstacles in a supportive setting helps them become flexible, resilient, and ready to handle life’s ups and downs.

7. Cultural & Civic Awareness: From cultural exchange programs to community service projects, enrichment opportunities can broaden children’s perspectives, encouraging empathy, global understanding, and social responsibility.

8. Exploration of Passions: Enrichment provides a safe and supportive space for children to discover and pursue what excites them—whether that’s science experiments,

music, athletics, or art. These early explorations often lead to lifelong hobbies or even future careers.

9. Healthy Balance: Enrichment programs give children a productive alternative to screen time, encouraging real-world interactions, creativity, and physical activity.

10. Future Readiness: Perhaps most importantly, enrichment builds a toolkit of essential life skills, from perseverance and leadership to curiosity and confidence, that prepares children for success in academics, careers, and personal endeavors.

In short, after-school enrichment programs equip children with the tools, experiences, and inspiration they need to grow into well-rounded individuals, curious, capable, and ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

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ENRICHMENT

artNEST Studios has unique, enriching and FUN Art Workshops for kids ages 1-14, baby classes during the week and on weekends! From Painting and Drawing to Messy Play, Woodworking, Resin, Fashion and more, your child will find something that will unleash their natural creativity and enhance developmental skills! We are not your traditional Art Studio, our Splash Room is just one of the unique experiences you'll find with us. Located in Boca Raton, Delray Beach and NOW in Coral Springs. For more information visit artneststudios.com or call 561-562-8897.

Cox Science Center and Aquarium offers in person and distance learning opportunities for ages pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. They also offer exciting programs such as Homeschool Classes,

Gems Club, ASCEND NeuroExplorers and so much more. Located in West Palm Beach. For more information call 561-832-1988 or visit www. coxsciencecenter.org.

Dance Theater of Florida has an open-enrollment program for children ages 2–11 that promotes discipline, creativity and a love for dance while encouraging each child to reach their highest potential. Classes focus on building a solid foundation in technique with an emphasis on proper placement and safe progressions of movement while remaining sensitive to the developmental needs of younger dancers. The Children’s Division includes Dancing with Mommy, Creative Movement, Pre-Ballet 1 and 2 and Level 1 and The Student Division consists of Levels 2 through 3X. Located in Palm Beach Gardens. For more information call 561-627-9708 or visit the Dance Theater of Florida website.

Girl Scouts explore the world around them with wonder and enthusiasm. It’s not just about gaining new skills. It’s about reaching her full potential and becoming who she’s meant to be – all with an undeniable sense of belonging and connection.

Why Girl Scouts for your girl? Girl Scouts provides girls with a sense of belonging and a supportive peer network. Girls are guided

through skill-building and development activities and programs by committed and caring adult volunteers. The safe, all-girl environment provides emotional and motivational support as girls take on new adventures and overcome challenges. Girl Scouts empowers girls to build resilience, reach higher academic goals, and achieve lifelong career success. Scan the QR code to register now

For more information, visit gssef.org or contact us at 561-427-0177 or customercare@gssef.org

ENRICHMENT Guide

Genie’s Gymnastics

15,000 square feet of gymnastics fun! Gymnastics, Tumbling, Cheerleading and Recreational / Competitive Teams. They have all the necessary equipment for womens gymnastics plus an in ground trampoline, ground pit, tumble trak, training bar and lots of training mats. Located in Lake Worth. For more information call 561-868-0288 or visit www. geniesgymnastics.com.

Don’t forget to tell them you saw their listing in Enrichment Guide

Girl Scouts offers an unparalleled opportunity for girls to develop essential life skills while having fun and making lifelong friendships. Through engaging, hands-on activities, girls explore STEM, entrepreneurship, outdoor adventures, and community service all within a supportive, girlled environment. Research shows Girl Scouts are more likely to develop strong leadership skills and self-confidence than their peers. The program adapts to each girl's interests while teaching valuable skills like financial literacy, critical thinking, and teamwork. Invest in your daughter's future by signing her up for Girl Scouts today. Visit https://www.gssef.org/en/ get-involved/join.html to get started.

The Goldner Conservatory at the Maltz Jupiter Theatre The curtain is about to rise on a bold new chapter at Maltz Jupiter Theatre with the opening of its state-of-the-art Goldner Conservatory at the Roe Green Education Center. This expanded 8,500 square foot facility offers an innovative arts curriculum of fall and spring classes, productions, and camps for students Pre-K through adult. Group and private instruction is available in musical theatre, acting, dance, vocal, auditioning, podcasting, and camera work. Taught by a professional faculty, students receive personalized training in a supportive environment that fosters creativity, confidence, and growth. To learn more or to register, visit jupitertheatre.org/conservatory or contact: (561) 743-2666.

Leader Learning Center Chess Club is coming to Wellington and Greenacres Community centers! We provide a nurturing and engaging environment where children 5-17 can learn and develop their chess skills at their own pace. Check with your community center for dates and times.

Leader Learning Center also offers tutoring and neurogymnastics, a cutting-edge approach that combines physical exercise with cognitive training. Are you ready to conquer academic challenges, unlock your true potential, and soar to new heights? Look no further than Leader Learning Center, your ultimate destination for top-notch tutoring and educational support! For more information call 561-566-3719 or visit www.leaderlearning.us.

ENRICHMENT Guide

Palm Beach International Academy, a Stanza Education School, offers a tutoring program for students in grades 6-12 that focuses on direct, personalized education between student and tutor. Tutoring at our Boca Raton campus can be arranged for just a few as-needed sessions or on a regularly scheduled basis. For more information, visit: PBIAcademy. org or call (561) 735-5773.

Sandoway

Discovery Center

Discover the wonders of marine life at Sandoway Discovery Center! We

provide captivating field trips and outreach programs suitable for all ages. Join our exciting public programs, including thrilling shark and ray feedings, up-close animal encounters with snakes and alligators, and interactive touch tanks featuring stingrays and sea stars. Engaging special programs like the Discovery Series, Young Scientists Series, and Seaside Scholars are tailored for different age groups. Explore more at sandoway.org or find us at 142 S. Ocean Blvd. in Delray Beach. Unleash the adventure with us!

At the Schoolhouse Children’s Museum, we are proud to be a hands-on Museum! We offer an array of educational programming for children ages 18 months to 7

years. These developmentally appropriate, interactive programs focus on your child’s developmental growth, all with an eye towards future academic success. We feature hands-on, sensory-based exploration and play intertwined with a literature, art, science, music, and/ or dance focus. PLEASE NOTE: TEMPORARY MUSEUM CLOSURE THROUGH FALL WHILE WE DO SOME REFURBISHING. The Learning and Fun will continue with after-school classes taking place at libraries across the county. For more information: www.schoolhousemuseum.org.

High Quality Afterschool Programs Matter

A high-quality afterschool program ensures your children are safe, encourages supportive relationships, fosters a sense of belonging and provides positive learning experiences. Research shows when programs are of high-quality, this is when programs, staff and families see true improvements and benefits.

Prime Time Palm Beach County provides resources and supports to afterschool programs in Palm Beach County to help deliver highquality programming that allows children to thrive socially and academically.

To learn more, visit www.primetimepbc. org/quality. Look out for this seal that local afterschool programs proudly display as a testament to their commitment to offering high quality programming, so children and youth attending are inspired to be their best while supporting them to thrive socially and academically.

Check with your Community Center for details about dates and times.

Behind Every Door, A New Possibility: Maltz Jupiter Theatre Unveils Roe Green Education Center

From dance and theatre to digital storytelling, this groundbreaking facility will empower the next generation of performers and creators.

When you step into the brand-new Roe Green Education Center at the Maltz Jupiter Theatre, you're not just walking into a building, you’re entering a world of possibility. Picture a long corridor that feels like a love letter to the performing arts, with walls lined in photos of iconic playwrights, choreographers, actors, and directors. Their wisdom and words beam from bright, colorful quotes that serve as a daily reminder of the importance of dedication to the craft. Each room is separated by a vibrant colorful door completely unique from the other. Every door is an invitation for students to new opportunities to train, practice, and create at their highest artistic potential.

Behind one door? A sprawling dance studio with professional sprung floors where ballet shoes will glide, jazz shoes will stomp, and the rhythm of Hip Hop will pulse through the room. Another opens to a library and tech-powered collaboration zone, buzzing with students reading scripts, editing films, or dreaming up the next big thing. And just down

the hall, you’ll find a state-of-the-art green screen studio and audio recording booth that brings film, podcasting, and digital storytelling into the spotlight.

The Maltz Jupiter Theatre proudly announces the launch of the newly expanded Goldner Conservatory at the Roe Green Education Center, an 8,500-square-foot facility that redefines what’s possible for performing arts education in our region. A vision more than 15 years in the making, this cutting-edge center is the only one of its kind in the state of Florida. Students will be learning directly across from the rehearsal studios that professionals craft MainStage production. Students will have access to the MainStage Theatre and The Island Theatre, allowing them performing opportunities on two professional stages.

“They are elbows with the pros,” says Director of Education Kim Cozort Kay, “We are thrilled for our students to have a brand new home that facilitates

their artistic growth. Now, they will have a wider selection of class opportunities, talented new faculty, and a beautiful space to dance, act, sing, and train in.”

And you don’t have to take their word for it. Starting September 16, the Maltz Jupiter Theatre invites the public to experience the magic firsthand with guided tours of the Roe Green Education Center. Walk the halls, peek into classrooms, and feel the energy for yourself. No registration required—just stop by the Theatre anytime between 12:00pm and 7:00pm, Tuesday through Friday (Sept. 16–19, Sept. 23–26, and Sept. 30–Oct. 3), or swing by on Saturdays from 10:00am–2:00pm (Sept. 20, Sept. 27, and Oct. 4).

“We’ve been dreaming of this space for so long,” says Producing Artistic Director and Chief Executive, Andrew Kato. “This isn’t just a new space in our building, it’s a transformational leap forward. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, and the

final $2M donation made by Roe Green, we’re able to serve more members of our community than ever before.”

Fall classes have already begun, but students will move into the new space starting in October. The new Goldner Conservatory at the Roe Education Center offers something for everyone. From tiny dancers to seasoned performers, from curious beginners to aspiring professionals, the class lineup is rich, diverse, and packed with inspiration. Little ones can jump into creative movement and musical storytelling. Teens can dive deep into musical theatre, film acting, or tech design. Adults will find new opportunities to stretch themselves creatively, whether it’s through scene study, swing dance, or even joining the new Broadway Chorus.

This year’s exciting new dance offerings include Ballet, Jazz, Modern/Contemporary, Hip Hop, and Tap, taught by expert faculty from the acclaimed May 9 th through September 28 th

4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach, Florida 33405 (561) 832.1988 | CoxScienceCenter.org

Demetrius Klein Dance Company. For those who dream in lights and lenses, film acting, podcasting, and audio engineering courses take advantage of brand-new studios tailored for digital creativity. Even lovers of the written word can find a home in the Playreader’s Club, where participants explore and discuss classic and contemporary plays together.

Kim Cozort Cay says,“Whether you’re a parent looking for after-school programs, a young adult preparing for auditions, or a retiree ready to try something new, we’ve got a place for you here.” But it’s not just about classes. It’s about community. For years, local families have felt the sting of shrinking school arts budgets. With the opening of the Roe Green Education Center, the Theatre now offers a vibrant, year-round space where creativity is nurtured and celebrated regardless of a student’s background, experience, or financial means. The Goldner Conservatory is deeply committed to accessibility, offering need-based scholarships, programs for neurodivergent learners, and an inclusive curriculum that helps every student feel seen, heard, and empowered.

With this milestone expansion, the Maltz Jupiter Theatre cements its role as not only a premiere regional theatre but also a hub for education, equity, and artistic excellence. This isn’t just big news—it’s a game-changer for Palm Beach County. Whether you're enrolling in a class, cheering on a student, or simply curious about what lies behind

those vibrant doors, there's never been a better time to get involved. Come be part of the next chapter.

For full class offerings and enrollment details, visit jupitertheatre.org/goldner-conservatory.

About the Maltz Jupiter Theatre: The not-forprofit Maltz Jupiter Theatre has become one of Florida’s preeminent professional regional theatres, committed to production and education through its collaborations with local and national artists. A member of the prestigious League of Resident Theatres, the Maltz Jupiter Theatre draws 100,000 patrons annually, serves a subscription base of more than 7,000, and provides performing arts education to both youth and adult students through its Goldner Conservatory. The Island Theatre, a new 198-seat, Second Space has been added to the Theatre’s newly renovated 62,000 square foot facility for the 2024/25 season. Maltz Jupiter Theatre has earned numerous Carbonell Awards, South Florida’s highest honor for artistic excellence, including the prestigious Bill Von Maurer Award for Theatrical Excellence and The Ruth Foreman Award. For tickets and to learn more about all we offer, visit: www.jupitertheatre.org or contact the Box Office at: (561) 575-2223.

Schoolhouse Children's Museum is partnering with the Palm Beach County Library system! Exciting, hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) programs brought directly to you in libraries across the county.

PROGRAMS:

• Designed for children 8 and under

• Engaging Science Labs

• Literacy-focused story times

• nspiring art exploration activities

CLASSES INCLUDE:

• Duck, Duck Feather

• Sea Turtle Rescue STEAM Challenge

• I Dig Dinos

• May the Force Be With You: Magnet Exploration

• Creepy Crawlies

• Wild Animal Adventures: The Octopus

• Move it! Move it! STEAM Challenge

Visit our calendar of weekly classes at www.schoolhousemuseum.org

• Music and Dance classes will take place at the Arts and Cultural Center (next door) 125 E Ocean Ave, Boynton Beach FL 33435

• Museum outreach programs will take place at local libraries across Palm Beach County

For more information and schedule of classes and locations, please check our website or social media

For more information visit:

BY HAYLEY SCHAPIRO, LCSW

Your child sits down to do homework, but within minutes they’re up looking for a snack, searching for a pencil, or launching into a story. For many parents, these moments raise the question: is this typical childhood distraction, or something more?

The answer often lies in a set of skills called executive function. These brain-based abilities act like the airport’s air traffic control system, guiding focus, self-control, and flexibility. When strong, executive function helps children stay organized and calm. When weaker, it can leave them feeling frazzled, disorganized, and unprepared.

Executive function has three main components. Working memory helps children remember and use information, such as following a teacher’s multistep instruction. Cognitive flexibility allows them to adapt when plans change for example, when a sunny pool day is suddenly canceled by storms. Inhibitory control is the mental “pause button” that helps manage impulses, resist interruptions, and make thoughtful choices.

When these skills are not fully developed, challenges often appear in daily life. Younger children may melt down when routines shift or give up on what seems like a simple puzzle. Middle schoolers may lose classwork, forget directions, or drift off mid-task. Teens who struggle

with executive function often miss deadlines, overcommit socially, or act on impulses even when they know better. Intelligence and executive function don’t grow at the same pace, which means even a gifted child may have trouble with organization, time management, and planning.

Genetics, learning differences, and family modeling all play a big role in how these skills develop. The encouraging news is that executive function can be taught and strengthened much like practicing a sport or learning an instrument.

Parents are key to this growth. Skill-building can be woven into daily life in ways that feel fun and natural. Games like Freeze Dance or Simon Says help children practice self-control while having a good time. Role-playing frustrating situations, like losing a board game, allows kids to rehearse calm responses and practice self-soothing techniques. Encouraging effort over outcome for example, saying “I love how you kept trying even when it was tricky” teaches resilience and builds confidence.

Simple household systems also go a long way in reducing stress. Color-coded folders make assignments easier to track. A dedicated homework station stocked with supplies cuts down on excuses and distractions. Shared family calendars and checklists show children that planning and

organization are everyday tools to benefit from.

Flexibility can also be nurtured in small but meaningful ways. Jokes, puns, visual aids, and wordplay encourage quick thinking. Strategy games and puzzles help children learn to adapt when their first approach doesn’t work. And when inevitable interruptions occur, like soccer practice being canceled, parents who model calm, positive responses show kids that resilience is a skill worth practicing.

Most importantly, parents should remember that executive function develops gradually. These changes don’t happen overnight. Small wins like remembering to pack homework without a reminder are milestones worth celebrating. With patience, practice, and encouragement, children can strengthen these skills and build

the confidence they need. Executive function is about more than getting through the school day. It’s about preparing children with the tools they’ll use throughout life to manage challenges, adapt to change, and grow into resilient adults. With consistent support at home and practice in school, those tools can truly flourish.

Hayley C. Schapiro, LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the founder of Social Sense Palm Beach, a private practice dedicated to supporting children, adults, and couples through therapy, coaching, and consultation. She is also the founder of My Mental Health Network, a trusted community resource that connects families with local mental health professionals. In addition, Hayley and her team provide Executive Function Coaching and group support to help clients strengthen skills, resilience, and connection. Learn more at mymentalhealthnetwork.com.

classes will take place at the Arts and Cultural Center next door. Museum outreach programs will take place at local libraries across Palm Beach County. For more information and schedule of classes/ locations please check their website and social media. www.schoolhousemuseum.org.

Celebrate International Literacy Day with Cox Science Center and Read Like Royalty

EVENTS & Things to Do

fashionNEST Street Style open for business. Kids will have the opportunity to be fashion designers and stylists for themselves. They will get to use both fabric and thrifted materials for their on-trend creations. Whether they want to rework a pair of vintage jeans or make a skirt from scratch, this is the class for them. They will discover the art of planning, designing and sewing while learning about Street Style and Thrifting fashion. Day: Tuesdays Dates: Sept 9, 16, 30. Oct. 7, 14, 21. Time: 4:30-6PM. Ages: 7-9 & 10-13. Sign Up: https://tinyurl.com/3syh3x9p

September 8th 9am-12pm Cool crafts, Icy demos and Science exploration. Photos & story time with Elsa at 9:30am. Story time seats are limited. Reserve your spot with RSVP to members@coxsciencecenter.org. First 25 member households checked in receive a free Elsa Golden Book. Event is included with paid admission. For more info go to www.coxsciencecenter.org/

Guided Tours of the Roe Green Education Center Maltz Jupiter Theatre

September 16–October 4

Tuesdays–Fridays, 12:00–7:00pm (Sept. 16–19, 23–26, 30–Oct. 3) Saturdays, 10:00am–2:00pm (Sept. 20, 27, Oct. 4) Walk the halls, peek into classrooms,

and feel the energy for yourself. No registration required—just stop by the Theatre anytime. Visit: www.jupitertheatre.org for more info.

Summer Plant Sale & Family Fun Weekend

– Kids FREE! Mounts Botanical Garden of Palm Beach County September 20–21, 2025 | 9:00 am–4:00 pm (last entry 3:30 pm) Members-Only Preview: Saturday, September 20, 8:00–9:00 am.

Mounts Botanical Garden hosts its annual Summer Plant Sale & Family Fun Weekend, a twoday event featuring more than 60 growers and artisan vendors with orchids, exotics, succulents, bonsai, fruit trees, natives, and garden accessories. Guests can enjoy live entertainment, familyfriendly activities, arts and crafts, games, food and beverage vendors, and shopping at the Garden’s Gift Shop, Nursery, and Vintage Garden Thrift Shop. Admission is free for Mounts members, AHS reciprocal members, and children 17 and under; tickets are $20 for adults and $18 for seniors, college students, and military with ID. Special presentations are included with admission: on Saturday, September 20, Jen Reelitz speaks at 11:00 am on creating backyard food forests, followed at 1:00 pm by Mike Sands with tips on caring for everyday and rare orchids. On Sunday, September 21, Melissa Corichi presents “Composting 101” at 11:00 am, and at 1:00 pm Dr. Amanda Pike shares insights on incorporating native plants into sustainable landscaping. For details, visit mounts.org or call (561) 233-1757.

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