Greater Pensacola Parents September 2017 by KeepSharing

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September2017

Columns

Volume 2 Number 6

Living With Children John Rosemond

Kids Health Watch

Sponsored by Pediatric Associates, P.A.

Warming Up to Facts About Fever School is back in, summer is coming to a close, and for all us parents that means shopping for school supplies, getting the bed time routine back in order, and of course – illnesses! While we can’t always keep our kids from getting sick, hopefully we can keep from making ourselves sick with worry over the most common symptom of many illnesses: fever. Fever is the body’s way of responding to and fighting infections. It is a natural part of the immune response, and although it can be uncomfortable to run a fever, it is actually helpful. But it causes a lot of anxiety and angst for us parents. There are a lot of myths and misconceptions about fever out there, more than I could possibly cover in this article, but here are some of the common ones I hear from worried parents:

“Does fever cause brain damage?”

No. Fever caused by illness does not cause brain damage. Even if it’s a high fever, it will not harm your child. In very young infants, fever is still not dangerous, but it is important

to make sure the illness causing the fever is not dangerous, so your baby’s doctor may ask you to have them seen if they have a fever over a certain level in some cases.

“What about seizures?”

It’s true that fever can trigger what are called “febrile seizures.” These are convulsions that are scary to watch, but they are benign and do not lead to brain damage, developmental delays, or speech problems. They affect between 2% and 4% of normal healthy children. They typically last under 5 minutes, followed by a period of sleepiness, and the child then returns to their normal state. They do not increase the risk of epilepsy (seizures not related to fever). Talk to your pediatrician if you have questions about febrile seizures.

“Do I need to treat fever? What if it does not come down with medicine?”

Fever does not need treatment. However, because it causes discomfort, most of us do tend to treat our kids’ fever with medicine to try to help bring it down, mainly to try to make them comfortable. When the fever medicine wears off, the fever will come back, and it may

be treated again if desired. The fever will go away and not return once the body overpowers the virus. Most often, this is day 3 or 4, but sometimes even viruses can cause fever for 5 or 6 days. I recommend parents have a child seen if they have fever longer than 3 to 4 days, not because it is harmful, but to make sure there isn’t anything going on that might need to be treated (like an ear infection or other bacterial source). Worrying about our kids is natural. Hopefully this will help take a little of the worry out of the school-time illnesses our children are likely to encounter. As I recommend with all of my patients, if you have any questions or concerns about your child, do not hesitate to call your child’s doctor or make an appointment to have them checked out. Sometimes peace of mind is worth a trip or a phone call! Dr. Samuel Ravenel, Board Certified Pediatrician, is a native of Greensboro, NC and joined Pediatric Associates, PA, in June of 2016. After completing his undergraduate work at University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, he completed medical school at Medical University of South Carolina and did his residency at Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters/Eastern Virginia Medical School in Norfolk, VA. Dr. Ravenel practices at our Cordova and Pace locations.

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Autauga County Schools

Trinitas Welcomes New Logo

Trinitas Christian School bids farewell to its old monogram this school year and welcomes the new and improved Trinitas “T” logo. The old logo shirts and sweaters will be worn and enjoyed by many children at a school in Guatemala. Donnie and Shay Peterson from Pine Summit Baptist Church took the school’s old uniforms with them on a mission trip in July. What a blessing they are for the young people in the school their church helps support.

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Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@greaterpensacolaparents.com.

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Young Artists Flourish At Montessori Summer Art Camp

This July, the Montessori School of Pensacola (MSP) Art Camp allowed students to not only make creative pieces of art, but also exposed them to famous artists and their unique styles. They were able to paint like Pollock, create their own renditions of Van Gogh’s Starry Night, study Monet’s water lilies, and more. Additionally, they did fun craft projects, like tie-dyed T-shirts and glitter snow globes. MSP offers themed summer camps for 4-6 year-olds at its 12th Avenue East Hill campus.

Cram the Van Donations Help Schools Start Strong

Before school even started, dedicated United Way volunteers kept busy organizing donated school supplies for school representatives to pick up their Cram the Van donations. In the background you can get a peek of Workman Middle School’s amazing new gym. Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2017

Veteran WWII Aviators Share Sea Stories With U.S. Naval Sea Cadets

On July 8, twenty-two young Sea Cadets from Independence Squadron engaged with more than a dozen WWII veteran pilots to learn their stories. The Cadets participated in a veterans’ flight, held annually at the Pensacola Aviation Center located near the Pensacola Airport. The veterans’ flight is a sponsored event that was part of the Pensacola Air Show held the same weekend. WWII aviation veterans were provided the opportunity to fly (or ride) the Stearman aircraft during their visit and as they waited were able to reminisce with the young men and woman of the Naval Sea Cadet Corps, Independence Squadron. The Cadets were very appreciative to be invited as part of the event and enjoyed talking with the veterans and learning their stories. Afterward the Cadets shared the stories with each other and obtained a greater appreciation for the bravery of these veterans and all that fought alongside them during WWII. Sea Cadets is a program for young men and women in a drug- and gang-free environment that promotes teamwork, responsibility, respect and leadership skills. Graduates of the Sea Cadets frequently choose a career serving in our country’s Armed Forces but this is NOT a requirement to join. The skills learned in this program are useful in any life path the youth chooses. If a cadet does choose the Armed Services they frequently will have earned early advancement in the US Navy and Coast Guard (E-3 after boot camp). As many as 12% of the graduates of the US Naval Academy are former Sea Cadets. If you are interested in what the Sea Cadets do as a youth organization, visit www. facebook.com/usnsccindependencesquadron1/. Shown, U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps, Independence Squadron in front of the Stearman plane. 10

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Montessori Plans Best Year Yet

The Montessori School of Pensacola (MSP) started its 2017-18 school year off with a special goal-setting program for the entire staff. The staff attended training on August 7 from Best Year Yet. This smart goal program has been working with individuals, groups, and businesses for more than 35 years to provide a platform for support, focus, self-motivation, and accountability to produce results in business and life. MSP’s 40th anniversary year runs from January 2017 to January 2018, so this special presentation is part of its continued celebration. MSP staff members are known to comment on the warm family feel that their workplace provides. The whole MSP organization looks forward to the goals set through this training and seeing what exciting things the year brings!

Global Learning Holds Poverty Simulation Event

Poverty Simulation was held at Spencer Bibbs Elementary on August 7 by Title I for the crew from Global Learning Academy. Global Learning’s music teacher may have missed her calling - perhaps she should be joining the drama teachers! Great job acting in today’s poverty simulation!

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Autauga County Schools

Trinitas Selects 2017 Volleyball Teams

Escambia County Holds School Menu Expo

Escambia County School District’s Food Service Department held a recent School Menu Expo, which offered the chance for parents to sample school lunch menu items. Yum! Lots of thumbs up!!

The following young ladies have been selected to participate in the 2017 Trinitas Volleyball team. Varsity players include: Summer Gregg, Emily Hadding, Alex Johnson, Mekenzie Petersen, Cate Price, Erica Radcliffe, Eryn Riesberg, Jillian Todd and Emma Todd. Junior varsity includes: Eliana Adler, Jessica Croley, Abby Hadding, Morgan Petersen, Amanda Schwartz, Grace Tenniswood, Brooklyn Weihenmayer and Catherine Zepp. These ladies have already been working hard with early practices and learning various drills.

Please email news to schoolnews@greaterpensacolaparents.com!

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Montessori School of Pensacola Sponsors Golden Elite Track Team

The Montessori School of Pensacola sponsored the local Golden Elite Track and Field Team for the second summer in a row. Four MSP students were on the team. Players attended the 2017 AAU Junior Olympics in Detroit during the first week of August. This event was the 51st annual AAU Junior Olympics and is the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest multisport event, with 15,000 other athletes from 45 states. Several Golden Elite team runners received medals and many achieved their personal best records.

Trinitas Quilted Memories

In a most unique farewell to her graduating senior, Mrs. Susan Hill created a quilted masterpiece! As a gift to her son, Hayden, Hill combined old T-shirts and memorabilia from uniforms, yearbook shirts, house shirts, running club, soccer team, baseball jerseys and even a Friday uniform shirt and tie made the cut! It is an amazing compilation of memories and a sweet tribute to Hayden after his tenure here at Trinitas. Thanks for the wonderful idea and may it be well used by Hayden at Samford University this fall!

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Autauga County Schools

Blessed Star Montessori Students Hold Garden Camp

Blessed Star Montessori Christian School students transformed at their recent â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the Garden Camp,â&#x20AC;? held at Brit Ahm Synagogue. During the three-day event, students were transformed into Godly Grasshoppers, Brave Bumble Bees, Devoted Dragonflies and Praying Mantises. While attending, they learned about seeds, germination and the effects of pruning to help fruit produce. They also learned how the Word of God is the seed, the Word of God produces fruit, and the Word of God gives life.

Recent Pensacola Graduates Begin College in Alabama

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The Greater Pensacola Auburn Club congratulates this local senior class of 2017 who began attending Auburn University in the fall. These students recently graduated from Gulf Breeze High School and J.M. Tate High School: Chris Nichols, Michael Scott, Charles Smith, Dawn Looney, Carmen McCrackin, Kinnlie Townsley, Megan Hoffman and Madison Patrick.

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Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2017

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Escambia County Names Stellar Employee for August

At its recent school board meeting, Escambia County named Kate Lewis Stellar Employee of the Month for August. Other highlights from the meeting include the announcement that September is PTA/PTSA Month, and two new administrators were officially introduced. Assistant Principal Marsh is at Scenic Heights Elementary and Assistant Principal Roby at O.J. Semmes Elementary.

Bellview Wraps Up Summer with Painted Rock Project

Bellview Middle School wrapped up its Summer Reading Project with a “Reading Rocks” rock-painting party for students and teachers. Bellview “rocks!”

Please email news and photos to editor@ greaterpensacolaparents.com by the 12th of each month!

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Escambia County Achieves FSBA Master Board Distinction

ECSD Announces New Mobile App for Families

A recent news release from the Florida School Boards Association announced that four governance teams (school board and superintendent) from around the state, including Escambia County School District’s Governance Board, earned the distinction of FSBA Master Boards. This involved members completing a training program designed to “strengthen the leader team’s ability to work effectively, efficiently, and collectively while maintaining a focus on student achievement and factors contributing to the success of schools.” Shown are Board Member Patty Hightower, Board Chair Linda Moultrie and Superintendent Malcolm Thomas when the plaque was presented at the State FSBA meeting held in June.

Autism Pensacola Concludes 2017 Kids for Camp

Autism Pensacola has concluded its 11th year of the flagship program, Kids for Camp. This five-week summer learning lab is made possible through the support of donors and community sponsors. This year’s Kids for Camp was made up of 79 campers, 52 staff members, and more than 80 peer volunteers from both Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. Through a partnership with the Sacred Heart Autism Center, both staff and students were able to benefit from best-practice teaching, specifically Applied Behavior Analysis. The summer learning lab was created as a way for those on the spectrum to continue their progress while out of school on summer break. Program Director Jessica Lapen expressed her gratitude to the community for its continued support. “From our partnership with the Escambia County School District, to the job shadowing opportunities afforded our campers and young adults, we have found that doors are opening to help and include our autistic campers,” she said. Special thanks to the many job experience locations, including the Bodacious Olive, The Fish House, Manna Food Pantries, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northwest Florida, Publix on Ninth Avenue, Sherwood Elementary, Newk’s at Bayou Boulevard and J’s Bakery. To learn more about Kids for Camp or to get involved for next year, visit autismpensacola.org. Shown are some camp participants at The Fish House. Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2017

Escambia County School District has announced a new way for students’ families to access information from a smart phone with a NEW ECSD Families App. The primary purpose for the app is to make the Focus Parent Portal information system easily available and portable. The secondary goal is to make ECSD news more easily available to everyone interested in ECSD information, such as the calendar of events and sports. “The new ECSD Families App will allow parents to access information about their student’s attendance, assignments and news about assignments by opening the new app and then logging into their Parent Portal account from a mobile device,” said Superintendent Malcolm Thomas. “Parents will also be able to switch between multiple students attached to their account.” Any parent or guardian who hasn’t already established a Focus Parent Portal account will find instructions on the opening tab of the app. Everyone will be able to use the settings in the app to pick which ECSD newsfeeds they want to see on their phone. Available in the Apple App store or on the Google Play store for Android phones, the ECSD Families App is free. “When we have important announcements, they will still be available on the ECSD homepage and District Facebook page, but having it on your phone means those news items will be available to you anytime, even if you are away from a computer,” Thomas added. “We are excited to enter the app arena and hope this will be a way for us to communicate quickly with families during an emergency or to share our good news.” All users, even those without a student, can access the News and Links tabs without a Parent Portal account login. After establishing newsfeed choices, users will swipe left to access the second tab – titled News. The third tab contains a page of icons that will take the user to various pages on the ECSD web site. www.greaterpensacolaparents.com

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Escambia County Presents 2016-17 Fire Safety Awards Certificates of Excellence for Outstanding Achievement in the Annual Fire Life Safety Inspections were presented during Escambia County’s July School Board meeting. “The Department of Protection Services has worked very closely with school administrators to improve safety in the learning environment and in making continuous improvements in fire life safety,” said Superintendent Malcolm Thomas during the meeting. “Administrators and staff at all of our schools have dedicated considerable time and effort to reduce the risk of potential injuries and property damage. Many schools have made significant improvements. As a result, districtwide life safety deficiencies have dramatically decreased.” Jennifer Ellis, manager of the district’s Protection Services Department, was joined by Escambia County Fire Marshall Joe Quinn and City of Pensacola Fire Marshall Annie Bloxson to recognize the most improved schools. Schools recognized for reducing their deficiencies by 50% or more included: Beulah Elementary, Scenic Heights Elementary, A.K. Suter Elementary, Sherwood Elementary, West Pensacola Elementary, Pine Meadow Elementary, Booker T. Washington High and Tate High. The schools recognized for having 15 or fewer deficiencies were: Bratt Elemen-

tary, Montclair Elementary, Molino Park Elementary and Ernest Ward Middle. Jim Bailey Middle was recognized as the Most Improved School of the Year! Bailey went from 148 deficiencies in the 2013-14 School Year to only 33 in the 2016-17 year – a 77% decrease.

Representatives from each school were congratulated by Superintendent Thomas and members of the school board and they received Certificates of Excellence to be put on display in their schools.

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A Page in a Book The Power of a Poem: More Than Just the Words Our early speech to children, with its sing-song lilts and rhyming endearments, is full of poetry. Before babies are old enough to decipher words, they can recognize rhythmic and repeating sounds. Poetry predates written language. Our ancestors used the cant and rhythm of poems to understand and retain the ‘idea’ of things in the absence of written records. The repeating words and sounds punctuated our language with markers and milestones as it helped us memorize our story and history. The following titles cherish the power of poetry and introduce young readers to one of literature’s earliest and most endearing storytelling forms.

A Carnival of Cats

by Charles Ghigna, Illustrated by Kristi Bridgeman (Orca Publishing) Move over, Mother Goose. Charles Ghigna’s moniker of ‘Father Goose’ is well-deserved as a prolific and beloved author of poetry for kids. His feline fancy, A Carnival of Cats pulls the youngest reader into the poetic arena with verse that not only introduces simple poetry, but also fosters predictive engagement. The recto (right hand) page offering rhythmic clues that indicate a specific breed. Children use the rhyming words to anticipate the type of cat to be revealed as the verso (left hand) page is turned. With warmly energetic illustrations celebrating everything from Calicoes to Black Bombays, cat lovers will find perfect pairings in A Carnival of Cats!

A Poke in the “I”: A Collection of Concrete Poems

A Song About Myself

by John Keats, Illustrated by Chris Raschka (Candlewick) Although John Keats’ (1795-1821) life was brief, his words and poetry have remained a testament to his gift for almost two centuries. His A Song About Myself, extracted from a letter to his sister during a visit to Scotland, captures the mischievous spirit and adventurous nature of a young boy abroad. The soft burr of a Scottish accent can be read in its lines, and adds extra auditory elements for a read-aloud listener. The rhyme and tempo of this work shift and start, much like the progress of a child leaping from creek to hill on a long hike. With soft watercolor illustrations updating the narrative, this aged poem remains a treasure for all ages.

Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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Selected by Paul Janeczko, Illustrated by Chris Raschka (Candlewick) Concrete poetry is when the words or linguistic elements are arranged in a shape or pattern that adds visual emphasis to the meaning of the poem. Sometimes these shaped poems have an element of problem-solving as the reader discovers which path to follow as they read the words. The works selected for this title offer a rich variety of concrete poetry from the extremely simple to denser poems that require more attentive navigation. The vibrant illustrations mirror the use of shapes throughout without distracting from the importance of the poems’ shape. Get ready for a poetic poke in the eye with this bright look at concrete work.

Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2017

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Using the Grandchild for Money Q. My wife and I have been helping our adopted daughter financially for some time. She’s 25, has been married for three years, and we don’t see this cycle stopping anytime soon. The worst part is, they will often throw in that our grandchild will go without something unless we help. We’re certain this isn’t teaching them to stand on their own feet, but we don’t know what else to do. A. You’re right about one thing. It’s time they both learned how to handle money like mature, responsible adults. I don’t know how much your tried to teach her about finances when she was growing up, but it sounds like this “needing help” thing is turning into an endless cycle. You’re giving them money left and right, and it’s not working. You’re giving them fish, and you’ve heard that whole saying. You could also teach them to fish and then not give them any fish, but I like a third choice in this scenario — give them

fish only if they take fishing lessons. They get no more money from you unless they get financial counseling together and make a serious move toward straightening up their lives. If they try to play on your feelings by saying your grandchild is hungry, tell them to send the child over for a meal. If they run out of money until payday, tell them to go to their financial counseling session to find answers. Right now, every time they have a problem they call mom and dad. Guess what? They don’t have any problems as long as you’re doing what you’re doing. Love them well. Hold their hands and say, “When I was your age, I wish someone had done this for me. I’m not going to give you any more money unless you go to financial counseling sessions regularly and together. If you do this, turn in a budget to us and let us coach you on how to be adults and handle your own money well, we’ll help and set up a matching system. If you don’t do the matching part though, you won’t see anything from us.”

They’ve figured out if they hold your feet to the fire when it comes to this grandbaby, you’re going to open the wallet. They’re playing you right now, and it’s not to their benefit — or yours!

Borrow against retirement? Q.

I have an opportunity to take a loan against my 401(k) retirement, and pay myself interest. Is this a good idea?

Actually, you’ll end up costing yourself interest. Never take a loan against your retirement! When you pay interest against your retirement, you cost yourself interest. If you leave the company — which you will someday — the loan against the 401(k) is due within 60 days. If you don’t pay it off, they consider it an early withdrawal and you’ll get taxed and penalized big-time. If you have a certifiable emergency, like owing the IRS or facing a foreclosure, you may have to withdraw some. You’ll still get taxed, but please don’t ever borrow against retirement!

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Raise Kids to Be

Confident, Not Boastful Nearly every parent thinks their children have unique talents. I have one child with musical abilities. She can sing and play the piano well. My other child is still developing her skills. She is constantly dancing, twirling and choreographing. My friends’ children are talented in sports like soccer or strong in academics like reading. As parents, how do we balance our kids’ aptitude and help them be confident without them becoming too boastful? Here are a few tips that have helped our family:

related to their behavior or generosity. “She was so well-behaved and used good manners.” “She helped another student.” Or “I would clone another kid just like her.” Those are the statements that make this mama’s heart warm and fuzzy because they are about character.

2. Forward a compliment.

First and foremost, I encourage my children to accept the compliments they receive. If someone says a nice phrase about my children, even if it’s a stranger in the grocery store, we reply “thank you.” It may be for my daughters’ appearance. “Oh she’s so pretty!” someone might say. Of course I think my kids are beautiful, but I remind them quickly that physical beauty is not that important. My two daughters know that within our family it is most important to be kind, have knowledge and show love. Those qualities are more essential than being attractive. In fact those qualities make you beautiful. Still I believe it’s best to accept a compliment when it’s been bestowed upon you. My girls also receive kind comments about their talents, “She has a great singing voice.” Or “She is a wonderful artist.” Again we reply with gratitude and my girls say thank you back. As a parent, my favorite compliments to hear about my kids are

After someone gives a flattering remark to one of my children, I strongly urge them to forward a compliment or kind phrase back to someone else, especially the person who said one to them. This is a practice I have to remind my kids about. My oldest daughter received a compliment from her cousin recently about a singing performance. She said thank you, but then responded, “I bet others wish they could sing like me.” I quickly explained to my child that although I knew she did not mean harm in her words, her statement came across as boastful. Instead I suggested she give a compliment back to her relative. What was a talent of hers that she observed? She thought of one and forwarded the compliment back. This made both of them feel better. If a stranger is offering the compliment, and my children and I don’t know what to say in return, then we let the person know that he or she made our day more special with their words. “Thank you. Your compliment made our day brighter.”

Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2017

1. Accept compliments.

3. Talk about talents.

Some children are naturally good at doing certain things. In others, it could be the opposite. A person may not do it well at all or they simply do not enjoy the activity, subject or event. My kids and I have open discussions about different people and their diverse talents. We attend sporting events, performances and competitions. I show my children how being an enthusiastic spectator and supportive fan is just as important as the people featured in the event, show or race. Our family discusses how those athletes and performers work hard and practice regularly to stay in top form and capture the lead. I remind my girls that it’s wonderful for people to be unlike us and have these unique abilities. This way we don’t all accomplish identical achievements or want to be in the same activities. My kids know that if their current activities become less enjoyable or begins to feel like a chore, then we can stop them at anytime. Our hobbies should be enriching and challenging, but most of all they should be fun.

Never Stop Developing and Recognizing Talent

As parents we can develop confident kids, without them becoming arrogant. We can achieve this by teaching them to accept compliments that come their way, give a kind remark back to others and discuss talent whenever they recognize it. This will lead to them pursuing their interests and inspiring others with a grateful heart. Mandy B. Fernandez is a writer living in Pensacola, Florida with her husband and two children. She has a B.A. in English with a minor in Technical Writing. She writes on topics such as business, education, creative arts, health, family life, parenting and natural foods. In addition she loves sharing humorous stories, poetry and essays about womanhood and motherhood. Her first children’s book, Kazoo Makes The Team, was just released. Visit her at www. writtenbymandy.com.

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“Why do you talk like that?” I heard the question come from behind me as I helped another child in the Sunday school class.

answer, “It’s just the way I am,” after years of questions about her differences. Our kids have grown up around their beloved Aunt Kara and accept her as she is but there came a time when each of them have asked about Kara’s disability and why it makes her different. Chances are, at some point, your child will meet someone at school or in the community that has disabilities. It is normal for children to have questions about people who are different, which means parents should be prepared to answer their questions in an intelligent and appropriate way. Here are some tips to get the conversation started:

“It’s just the way I am.” I heard my sister-in-law wisely answer the curious boy. My sister-in-law, Kara, was born with Cerebral Palsy. She was helping me in the classroom that day when one of the kids noticed her speech is different. Kara has been taught to

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Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2017

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Everyone is different but the same

All of us have unique gifts, personalities, and challenges. No two people are the same and this is a great thing because diversity makes life interesting and fun. While we are all different, everyone has things in common too. All people, including people with disabilities, want to have friends, be shown respect, and have the desire to be accepted. Encourage your child to embrace the differences of others and find common ground, as well. If your child is interested in a popular television show, book, toy, or game, chances are a person with special needs is too. Ask them what they love to do, I would guess they will be happy to tell you.

Types of disabilities

Some disabilities are obvious and some are not. Some people may need a walker or wheelchair to help them move around. Others may have a cognitive (thinking) disability that is not as visible. Explain in simple terms that people struggle with different things and may need a little extra help from a physical tool (like a wheelchair) or help from others. People can have impairments with sight, hearing, walking, speech, cognitive, or a variety of other things. It is important to note that just because someone is in a wheelchair, it does not mean they have a cognitive disability. Also, disabilities are not contagious and children are not going to “catch” the disability. These things may sound obvious to adults, but children process things differently and many have these questions.

Name calling is never okay

Emphasize that people with disabilities have feelings too. Name calling is hurtful, disrespectful, and is a form of bullying. People with disabilities need others to stand up for them when they cannot stand up for themselves. Encourage your child to tell an adult if kids are teasing another child. Your child can be an example to others by being kind and respectful. Parents can set an example by using positive language and behavior towards others, as well.

A note about “rude” comments

Kids are curious and love to ask questions. Many times they will speak exactly what is on their mind, without thinking about whether the comments will be hurtful. This can be very embarrassing to parents. So what do you do if your child blurts out a rude and embarrassing comment? Start by answering calmly and matter of factly. If, for example, your child says, “Why is that boy in a wheelchair?” simply answer, “He needs it to move around. Why don’t you say hello?” If the child is reluctant, say hello to him yourself along with something like, “John likes trains. Do you like trains too?” If the person accompanying the child responds, follow their lead. It is always better to treat others as you would like to be treated than to hurry away in an embarrassing situation. Later, when you are at home, you can ask your child if they have any other questions about others with disabilities and reinforce the value of treating everyone equally. My sister-in-law, now 38 years old, has been asked many questions over the years, some rude and some just curious. She has learned to handle them well because she knows that, just like anyone else, she has challenges to overcome and successes to celebrate. Kara loves watching movies, dancing to music, and taking care of animals. She loves eating candy, pizza, and tacos. She is fun to be around and loves to get out and explore new places. People with disabilities are just people. Sometimes that simple fact is all kids need to know. GPP Sarah Lyons is a contributing writer and has been published in more than 100 parenting publications.

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Is Your Family Using Technology Wisely? Not long ago, a search engine company called ReportLinker surveyed 670 families with children under fifteen to better understand the relationship between American kids and their devices. The results are a snapshot of how technology has been integrated into American families. In many ways, parents are following recommendations from experts including the American Academy of Pediatrics. But in a few key areas, parents seem to be ignoring best practice and following the path of least resistance. To get an idea of where your family falls, answer the following questions and compare your family’s tech habits to those of other families as well as recommendations from AAP. How many screens do you have at home? When you count TVs, computers, tablets, smartphones and game consoles, the average number of screens per family is 7.3. Most households own a TV (94%), and about half have a video game console. Just over three quarters of the families had at least one smartphone in the household, and 62% of parents said their kids spent 3 to 5 hours a day using a smartphone. The average age when kids get their own phone is 13 and a half. For computing, families are more likely to use laptops (78%) than desktops (63%). The researchers also noted that among families with kids under ten, tablets are very popular—58% of children under 5 use them--and they may eventually rival television as the device of choice. Perhaps the most interesting statistic is about technology in bedrooms. The AAP recommends that bedrooms be device free and children “avoid exposure to devices or screens for one hour before bedtime.” Despite that advice, about two thirds of the families with five or more

devices allow kids to have one in the bedroom and, not surprisingly, those kids are more likely to use devices before they sleep. How many hours per day do your kids interact with technology? Having more devices in the household also increased the amount of time kids spend with technology. Half the parents said they limit “plug in” time to less than two hours a day, but that rule is more likely to be enforced in families that have fewer devices and keep them out of bedrooms. The AAP recently revised its guidelines to say that “parents must develop personalized media use plans” based on each child’s age, health, temperament and developmental stage. They also point out that parents must be sure technology doesn’t squeeze out other healthy activities including sleep, physical play and time away from media. When do your kids use technology? Over 80% of families said kids used devices during their spare time; only 6% allowed them to be used at mealtime. That’s consistent with the AAP recommendation that mealtimes be media-free. Is technology a positive or negative influence on your kids? Experts continue to argue about whether technology is changing childhood, but three quarters of parents believe devices are good for kids. Half say technology creates more benefits than risks, and 25% believe being comfortable with technology is essential for kids in the 21st century. For the 25% who feel technology has a negative impact on children, 11% believe technology creates more harms than benefits and 14% feel that technology “ruins the essence of childhood.” What are the main disadvantages of using tech devices? Twenty percent of parents couldn’t think of any disadvantages.

Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2017

A third worried that technology kept children from more traditional childhood activities such as playing, going outside or reading. Thirty one percent were concerned that time with devices made kids more isolated and less social. Only 10 percent worried about kids being less creative and 4% were concerned about increased aggression. To those concerns, AAP adds sleep disruption, the risk of obesity because of too much sedentary time and problematic Internet use including online bullying. What are the main advantages? When asked about benefits of technology, parents were clear: 40% felt technology promotes cognitive development and school readiness. About a quarter agreed that technology expands a child’s horizons, and another quarter thought access to devices makes kids more savvy about using technology of all kinds. Only 7% admitted using tech gadgets to amuse kids so they could do something else. AAP guidelines also note the social benefits of devices, including the opportunity to interact with distant friends and family members. Do your children manage their own tech time? Over half of parents (58%) believe their kids can manage their own time on electronic devices. Ironically, in the households where children use screens more than five hours a day, 43% of parents think kids are doing a perfectly good job of time management. On the other hand, if you sometimes find it difficult to manage screen time, you’re not alone; 42% of parents admitted they feel the same way. How often do you know what content your kids are watching? Even though parents vary a lot in how much access they give kids to technology, they agree with the AAP on one thing—it’s important to monitor what kids are consuming. Eighty three percent say they keep an eye on what kids watch, and 71% claim to have activated parental controls. Of course, one survey isn’t definitive, but it does reveal places where parents are on the right track—and improvement is possible. In the end, every family has to devise a device policy that works for them. To help, the AAP offers an interactive tool called Create Your Family Media Plan. Find it by looking for Media Plan at healthychildren.org. Carolyn Jabs, M.A., has been writing the Growing Up Online column for ten year. She is also the author of Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart. Available at Amazon and Cooperative Wisdom.org. @ Copyright, 2017, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.

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When Tracy Glock’s 13-month-old daughter Kira was hospitalized with Acute Myeloid Leukemia, she was touched by the outpouring of support she and her husband received. During those eight difficult months, the community rallied around the family. Friends and acquaintances babysat Kira in the hospital while her mom and dad worked, and many others helped by delivering meals and even mowing the family’s lawn. “Words cannot express the gratitude you feel when someone you barely know does so much for you,” Glock says, who was also pregnant at the time with Kira’s sister, Allina. Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2017

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Although Kira, now seven, has recovered from the frightening ordeal, she still faces many daily challenges. As a child with Down syndrome and autism, learning and development takes longer and requires more patience compared to the typically developing child. Like many parents who have children with special needs, Glock says finding time for herself is difficult. While many of us know how to help a family in crisis, how do we support parents who often put their own needs last as they focus on the daily challenges of caring for special needs youngsters?

Offer to babysit. Finding trustworthy, alternate caretakers is a huge relief for parents who regularly juggle doctor’s appointments, school issues and therapy, not to mention jobs and other children. “Every special needs parent’s needs are different, but most just love a little rest,” Glock says. Because special needs children require more attention from their parents, healthcare providers and therapists, other youngsters in the family may feel slighted. “Children always struggle and this is the case whether they’re special needs or not,” says Nancy Masannat, mom to two children, including Emy, 16, and Kyle, 14, who is on the autism spectrum. “There’s going to be sibling jealousies.” When her children were younger, Masannat would often schedule her son’s appointments during times when her daughter was in preschool. “In my daughter’s mind, it wasn’t fair that someone was coming to the house and playing with her brother and not her.” Having access to a qualified babysitter you can trust with your special needs child, can give you an opportunity to spend much-needed, one-on-one time with your other children too. Listen. Ask your friend how she’s doing and then simply listen. Avoid offering platitudes or suggestions to help her fix problems. “We all just like to be heard. Everybody likes to vent,” Masannat says. “Just listen to what the issues are without judgment. That’s a huge help for everybody, but primarily when you’re dealing with something that someone else might not understand.” Educate yourself. Get to know your friend’s child, including her disability, her personality quirks and her individual needs. And ask your friend about her specific parenting challenges.

At Montgomery Children’s Specialty Center we believe that every child is a person of worth and value. We are proud to be a pediatric long-term care facility that accepts children ages 18 and under and who have severe developmental disabilities. 2853 Forbes Drive | Montgomery, AL 36110 | (334) 261-3445 montgomerybytutera.com | See us on Facebook! 27

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“It shows that you care and will help you provide more effective support,” says Heather Trammell, mom to two special needs children, including Beth, 14, who has Down syndrome and Marie, 11, who has high-functioning autism. Both girls also have a connective tissue disorder called Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.

Suggest resources. Support

groups help parents feel less alone and provide valuable resources for assistance in childcare, school issues and navigating healthcare. “The biggest thing for me was to know that I wasn’t in this by myself--that I wasn’t the only person who had a child who didn’t sleep well; that I wasn’t the only one with a child who was now three and not talking,” Masannat says. To find support groups in your area, consult with the therapists and teachers your child already works with, your library, your church and online. For example, www.autismspeaks.org, which includes resources for families or the National Down Syndrome Society, www.ndss.org. Also check out Facebook and MeetUp. com for local support groups. (Also, find Support Groups in this month’s Special Needs Guide immediately following this article.)

Other ideas to brighten your friend’s day: • Purchase a gift certificate for a massage or manicure. • If you plan to have the family over, ask your friend if you should be aware of any food sensitivities or specific ground rules to ensure a successful visit. • Offer to babysit and/or help with siblings. • Help with getting kids to practices. • Deliver a meal. • Mow their lawn. • Send a bouquet of cheerful flowers. • Arrange for a house cleaning crew. • Ask if you can pick up anything while running errands/ • Mail an encouraging card. GPP

Freelance journalist, Christa Melnyk Hines, and her husband are the parents of two sons. She is the author of Confidently Connected: A Mom’s Guide to a Satisfying Social Life.

Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2017

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

Getting Kids to Grow Up

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Remember Alice in Wonderland? There’s one part of the story that finds a diminutive Alice trapped in a room where everything is bigger and taller than she is. But there, at her feet, she finds a piece of cake labeled “Eat Me.” After one bite from that questionable dessert, Alice grows exponentially, transforming into a full-fledged adult in the space of a few seconds. I know many parents who would love to feed a bit of that kind of “maturity cake” to their own kids! It seems that more and more teenagers in this generation are becoming stuck in a perpetual state of adolescence. Instead of growing into healthy adults, a rising number of young people are prolonging their childhood. In fact, the American Medical Association has recently increased the age of adolescence to 27. That means we have a bunch of twenty-somethings running around behaving like kids! No parent wants his or her child stuck. Our desire is to see our kids develop into mature, responsible, and independent adults. So how can we get them to grow up?

Causes

Before we work to fix the problem, we first have to identify the cause. Now, we could blame society for this generation of childish teens. But here’s the honest truth— parents, the fault lies with us. Young people will remain kids as long as we allow them to be kids. When we entertain their every desire, cater to their every need, protect them from every threat, and fund their every activity, why would they ever feel the need to be mature or responsible? Another cause for stunted growth could be related to how we communicate with our teens. When we constantly criticize their behavior, we stop their decision-making processes and send a clear message that they can’t function on their own. As they move

through the process of maturity, remember to transition from lectures to discussions. Parents; stop the constant correction of your kids! I realize that sometimes they need it, but communication made up entirely of criticism can stunt a child’s growth. If you want your child to grow into an adult, begin to treat him like one. If your son or daughter makes a mistake and doesn’t always listen to your advice, that’s okay. The consequences of bad decisions are often better than correction you could give.

Solutions

When your child shows no desire to hold a job, move out of the house, pursue goals, or further her life, it’s time to ask some tough questions. Are you giving too much and expecting too little? Are you nurturing a child’s inner adult or catering to an adult’s inner child? Though on the outside it looks like a maturity problem with your child, a teen stuck as a kid is really a family problem. And it needs to be corrected! Zookeepers know that you can turn a ferocious grizzly bear into a non-threatening stuffed animal by providing for their every need and limiting their freedom. But don’t make that mistake with your teens. Allow them opportunities to reach, grow, and mature, even if that means they make mistakes along the way. We want our teens to survive in the jungle, not a controlled habitat at home. Start by making a detailed plan of moving your child through maturity. It could look something like this: Age 13: Start washing his or her own clothes Age 14: Pick up more chores around the house Age 15: Get involved in helping others at church or in the community Age 16: Get a summer job Age 17: Be responsible for his or her own school career, including homework, tests, and activities Age 18: Manage personal money, including clothes budget or gas 29

These are simply examples, but you can see that the goal is to slowly nudge your children to deeper levels of maturity and growth, and lovingly train them to stand on their own two feet. Mom and Dad, start taking the emotional training wheels off your child’s bike early and often. This doesn’t mean we can’t help him steer or balance the bike from time to time. But we don’t allow our 18-year-old to keep riding around on a tricycle! No teen is past the age where you can teach maturity. Maybe you have a 19-yearold living in your basement, playing video games and contributing nothing. Now’s the time to take action and give him a big push in the right direction. Announce that you’ll be charging rent next month. However, maybe the first month you’ll cover half the payment, the second month you’ll cover a quarter, and by the third month you’ll expect a full rent payment. The ramp-up will give him time to get on his feet. Or make the decision that gas money, insurance, and clothing allowances are contingent on going to college or holding down a job. Set the rules, then don’t give in! Stick to your guns. If you don’t do anything now, two years down the road, instead of a 19-year-old living in your basement, you’ll have a 21-year-old living there! Make a decision to help your teen move forward right now, and put it at the top of the priority list. Though the American Medical Association says that 27 is the new 18, we don’t want that to be the case for our kids. It starts with us as parents. Let’s take the initiative and begin offering our teens opportunities to nibble the cake that will help them grow up. Stop the constant correction, take off the training wheels, and make a yearly maturity plan for your teen. Use these tools to get your teen moving forward into adulthood. Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

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information regarding the diagnosis, education and treatment of autism, obtain better services for the citizens who are affected by autism and provide social opportunities for those with autism through camps and other activities. 850-434-7171 info@autismpensacola.org www.autismpensacola.org

Autism Society of America

The Autism Society of America has been improving the lives of all affected by autism for over 50 years and envisions a world where individuals and families living with autism are able to maximize their quality of life, are treated with the highest level of dignity, and live in a society in which their talents and skills are appreciated and valued. We provide advocacy, education, information and referral, support, and community at national, state and local levels through our strong nationwide network of Affiliates. 800-328-8476 info@autism-society.org www.autism-society.org

Autism Society on the Emerald Coast

PO. Box 1786, Niceville, FL The mission of the Autism Society on the Emerald Coast is to serve as the leading voice and resource of the local autism community. The Society is organized exclusively for charitable & educational purposes, more specifically to ensure that all individuals affected by autism will be provided a network of opportunities to become fully accepted, included, and actively participating members of our community, through family support, education, advocacy and public awareness. 850-496-3062

Autism Speaks

ADD/ADHD

The Wolff Center for Child & Adolescent Health

Adult, Children and Family Counseling

1318 Dunmire Street Ste 3, Pensacola, FL, 32504 At Adult Children & Family Counseling, we take a completely personalized approach to ADD and ADHD therapy, using every tool at our disposal to help our Pensacola, FL patients better manage their symptoms and enjoy an enhanced quality of life. 850-477-2799

www.pensacolatherapytreatment.com

Attention Deficit Disorder Assoc. (ADDA)

The Attention Deficit Disorder Association provides information; resources and networking opportunities to help adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder lead better lives. 800-939-1019

info@add.org

www.add.org

Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorders (CHADD) Provides education, advocacy and support for individuals with ADHD. 800-233-4050

www.chadd.org

Feingold Association of the United States

Provides informational materials, online/telephone support, and resources. Helps families introduce low-additive dietary programs for children with learning/behavior problems and chemically sensitive adults. 631-369-9340

help@feingold.org

www.feingold.org

Focus MD

28080 US Highway 98, Suite F, Daphne, AL 36526 Focus MD is a medical practice for kids and young people with AD/HD and related problems. Focus MD provides objective testing, medical treatment as well as behavior modification strategies. 251-517-9025

www.asecfl.com

http://adhddaphne.com/

Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2017

1530 Airport Boulevard, Pensacola , FL 32504 Our board-certified and highly qualified health providers and staff provide all your child’s healthcare needs from birth through young adulthood. Our combination of medical and behavioral care and educational and family support, makes us a complete resource center for ADHD/ADD children or adolescents and their families. 850-474-4777 info@wolffcenter.com www.wolffcenter.com

Autism Spectrum American Autism and Rehabilitation Center

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8909 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL, AL 36526 American Autism & Rehabilitation Center (AARC) is a facility aimed at treating a variety of special needs in one convenient location. Our services are for children and adults and include speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, psychological/diagnostic services, educational services and more. Our highly-trained professionals work collaboratively to provide treatment plans as unique as the individual in order to help patients reach their full potential. We offer a family-centered approach and seek to provide hope and help to each patient and family. 251-210-1632 info@americanautismcenter.com www.americanautismcenter.com

Autism Pensacola

The goals of Autism Pensacola are to educate the general public about autism, serve as a support group for parents and professionals, provide

At Autism Speaks, our goal is to change the future for all who struggle with autism spectrum disorders. We are dedicated to funding global biomedical research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a possible cure for autism. We strive to raise public awareness about autism and bring hope to all who deal with the hardships of this disorder. We are committed to raising the funds necessary to support these goals.

888-288-4762; en Española 888-772-9050 familyservices@autismspeaks.org www.autismspeaks.org

B.I.G. Autism Foundation

3332 Indian Hills Drive, Pace, FL 32571 The Biomedical Intervention Group (B.I.G.) Autism Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization that has been formed to bring awareness, education, and research to families in Pensacola and the surrounding areas on the latest treatment options available for children with autism 850-516-3885

www.bigautism.com

BTEC Behavioral Therapy, Inc.

1508 West Garden Street, Pensacola, FL 32502 BTEC provides one-on-one behavioral therapy based on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) methodologies exclusively by a team of board certified behavior analysts (BCBA). All BTEC practitioners hold at least a Master’s degree, have received extensive post-graduate training in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis, and have been awarded credentials by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. 850-483-1508 lauriturner@btectherapy.com www.btectherapy.com

Center for Autism & Related Disabilities

5190 Bayou Blvd- Seton Medical Office Park Building 2, Pensacola, FL 32503 CARD’s purpose is to serve individuals across the lifespan by helping them become valued members of their communities. 850-416-4495

www.fsucard.com

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Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart Autism Center

5190 Bayou Blvd, Building 2, Pensacola, FL 32503 The Autism Center of The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart offers a range of services for children on the autism spectrum, all with a family-centered approach to learning. Our services include direct, individualized Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. ABA is a research-based, systematic method for improving socially significant skills and behaviors. We also offer parent instruction and hands-on training, social skills groups for various ages, and group training for families and professionals. 850-416-4681 www.sacred-heart.org/childrenshospital/AutismCenter/

Pace Gracie Jiu Jitsu

5430 Highway 90, Milton, FL 32571 Pandas Empowered Self Defense For the Exceptional Child - Learn Self Defense, Situational Awareness, and Anti Bullying 850-816-0065

www.pacegjj.com/

Spectrum House - Autism Center

3771 Stefani Road, Cantonment, FL 32533 Spectrum House provides comprehensive behavioral and educational services to individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders and other related disabilities. We use research-based techniques to assist each child in developing their fullest potential, while maximizing opportunities to become self-sufficient, productive members of society. 850-607-6910 info@spectrumhouse.org www.spectrumhouse.org

TACA (Talk About Curing Autism)

Talk About Curing Autism (TACA) is a national non-profit 501(c) (3) organization dedicated to educating, empowering and supporting families affected by autism.TACA helps to strengthen the autism community by connecting families and the professionals who can help them, allowing them to share stories and information to help improve the quality of life for people with autism. 855- 726-7810 or 949- 640-4401

www.tacanow.org

Special Needs Camps Camp ASCCA/Camp Frog

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Lake Martin, AL ASA’s Fall Family Camp allows children (ages 6-21) and families living with Autism Spectrum Disorder to experience camp in a traditional setting with all the supports needed for success.Easter Seals Camp ASCCA is a place where dreams come true for people of all abilities.Located on Lake Martin, Camp ASCCA has been serving people with disabilities for more than 35 years.It is the world’s largest year-round barrier-free camp! The philosophy of Camp ASCCA is to offer an exciting program geared to the age, interest, and abilities of its campers. This involves learning new skills; making new friends; participating in programs such as swimming, canoeing, boating, fishing, arts & crafts, talent show, horseback riding, archery, climbing, and zip line. Dates for the 2017 Camp Frog will be September 15-17, 2017. 877-428-8476 bamah@autism-alabama.org www.autism-alabama.org/camps/

Camp Mash

11081 Wanda Drive, Mobile , AL 36608 A week-long recreational program for children ages 7 to 17 with a form of juvenile arthritis or a related autoimmune disease. Our camp is planned specifically for the needs of our campers in order to empower them to live life to the fullest and to build friendships with other folks who are on similar journeys with their conditions. Camp M.A.S.H. is offered at NO COST to our families. We have some set activities that are everyone’s favorite things to do like fishing, swimming and the ropes course, as well as horses, archery, and arts & crafts. All activities and accommodations are fully accessible, and a medical staff team is on site around the clock. Camp MASH is open to children living in Alabama, Mississippi, the Florida Panhandle, and on a case by case basis other kids. 251-599-5688 campmashmobile@gmail.com www.campmash.org

for campers who are unable to attend other camps due to their special circumstances. ALL Counselors and Staff Members are volunteers! Campers attend camp at NO CHARGE to them. Counselors and Staff Members pay to attend camp, and the campers’ expenses are paid by generous donations from our Sponsors. Secretary@campskamp.net www.campskamp.net

Camp Smile

3058 Dauphin Square Connector, Mobile, AL 36607 Hosted by United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile, Camp SMILE is a residential summer camp for individuals with disabilities (ages 5 – 50) and their siblings. Here, campers not only have the chance to participate in physical activities like kayaking, fishing, and horseback riding; they also meet others whose abilities and life experiences are similar to their own. 251-479-4900, ext 531 campsmile@ucpmobile.org www.campsmilemobile.org

Very Special Camps

VerySpecialCamps.com is a specialized directory dedicated exclusively to camps which serve individuals with one or more of a wide range of special needs. Locate a summer camp or program based upon your specific requirements and interests by entering your specific criteria using our Full Search, browse by Camp Type or Location, or use a Keyword Search. www.veryspecialcamps.com

Cerebral Palsy MyChild at CerebralPalsy.org

MyChild™’s aim is to offer information about cerebral palsy, connect individuals with helpful resources, as well as offer unlimited support. It’s not the journey you expected, that’s a given. But, at times we find it pretty amazing, nonetheless. Come join us, today! 800-692-4453 ContactUs@MyChildwithCP.com www.cerebralpalsy.org

United Cerebral Palsy

Camp Skamp

P O Box 216, Baker, FL 32531 Started in 1971 for Special Kids by Meaningful People! These children suffer from physical challenges such as cerebral palsy (CP), spina bifida (SB), and similar disorders. Camp S.K.A.M.P. provides a unique experience

UCP educates, advocates and provides support services to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. UCP works to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities through an affiliate network. 800-872-5827

www.ucp.org

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Cystic Fibrosis

favorite foods or flashing a smile that you are proud of.

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation North Florida Chapter

Pensacola Kid’s Dentistry

PO Box 550906, Jacksonville, FL 32255 The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is the world’s leader in the search for a cure for cystic fibrosis. We fund more CF research than any other organization, and nearly every CF drug available today was made possible because of Foundation support. 904-733-3560

jax-fl@cff.org

www.cff.org/NorthFL/

Dentists Laura McAuley, DDS

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4500 Spanish Trail, Pensacola , FL 32504 As a pediatric dentist Dr. McAuley received additional specialty training in the unique needs of infants, children and adolescents, including those with special health needs. At the pediatric dental office of Dr. Laura McAuley, our top priority is helping your child achieve and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile in a loving, nurturing environment. 850-505-9778

www.readysetsmile.net

Charles Stavely, DMD

1560 Airport Boulevard, Pensacola, FL, FL 32504 Everyone wants to be respected, looked in the eye, treated like an individual, and know that someone really cares about them. We have enjoyed caring for special needs patients for over 10 years at Charles Stavely DMD. Part of our mission is helping people with special needs have healthy, pain free teeth and gums. Some of the simple pleasures in life are being able to enjoy your

850-479-1677

www.pensacolageneraldentist.com

4541 North Davis Highway, Pensacola, FL 32503 As pediatric dentists, our 2-3 years of additional training after dental school has prepared us for the unique dental needs of each child we serve. After receiving his doctorate, Dr. Simmons entered the pediatric specialty program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry and was selected as a SPARKS Trainee, furthering his knowledge in delivering quality dental treatment for individuals with special needs. Dr. Allison “Allie” Simmons completed her pediatric dental training at the University of Alabama Birmingham. UAB residency provided specialty training with pediatrics and specialized in providing care to patients with special needs. 850-549-3656

www.pensacolakidsdentistry.com

Stu Bonnin, DMD

3201 East Olive Road, Pensacola, FL 32514 Dr. Stu Bonnin earned his doctorate from the University of Florida where he completed his residency in pediatric dentistry in 2001. Dr. Bonnin is on staff at Sacred Heart Hospital. 850-477-1722

Down Syndrome Society of West Florida

The Down Syndrome Society of West Florida was established in 2012 as a support group for families of children with Down Syndrome. We service all counties in West Florida, including Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, and Walton. Membership applications are available by e-mailing our administrators. Membership annual dues are $20 per family.

The Down Syndrome Association of Tallahassee

Ca Ca

The mission of DSAT is to provide education, support, and resources to individuals with Down syndrome, their families, professionals, and the community, while building public awareness and acceptance of the abilities of individuals with Down syndrome. DSAT serves the entire Florida Panhandle and South Georgia 850-514-3981 amber.davis@dsatallahasee.com www.dsatallahassee.com/

Dyslexia Bureau of Braille and Talking Books Library

Down Syndrome Association of the Emerald Coast

To provide support, resources, and advocacy with the aim of increasing awareness, acceptance and inclusion in Bay county and surrounding areas 850-249-9988 dsaec321@gmail.com www.Facebook.com/DSAEC

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downsyndromesocietywf@yahoo.com Find us on Facebook

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The Florida Bureau of Braille and Talking Books Library provides information and reading materials in Braille and recorded audio format to Florida residents who are unable to use standard print as the result of visual, physical, or reading disabilities. 800-226-6075

http://dbs.myflorida.com/library/

Dianne Craft - Child Diagnostics

Wonderful website filled with information, articles and resources for all learning disabilities including dyslexia, auditory processing and right/left

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brain learning. We provide nutritional therapy and supplement recommendations. You can purchase Dianne’s DVDs, CDs, Books, vitamins, and other various products through her online store.

Morning Star - Sacred Heart Cathedral School

Education Resources

1603 North 12th Avenue, Pensacola, FL 32503 The Morning Star Program’s goals are to help each student, grades 2 - 8, develop a sense of self-worth, respect for others, a recognition of God as One who loves and values them, a sound academic foundation, occupational competencies, social skills, cultural appreciation and recreational outlets. Instruction in reading, spelling, language arts, mathematics, science and social studies is incorporated into a functional life skill program.

303-694-0532 craft@ecentral.com www.diannecraft.org

Capstone Academy Milton Campus

ad on page 45

5308 Stewart Street, Milton , FL 32570 Capstone Academy is an inclusive educational learning opportunity for all children, ages birth to five years, focusing on early intervention for children with developmental disabilities or who are at risk of delay. Children benefit from music, art, story time, computer, dramatic play, gross motor skills (outdoor play), fine motor skills (manipulative), and free exploration. Speech, Occupational, and Physical therapies are offered at Capstone. Therapies are provided during each child’s scheduled classroom hours. 850-626-3091

www.capstoneacademy.org/

Capstone Academy Pensacola Campus ad on page 45

4901 West Fairfield Drive, Pensacola, FL 32506 Capstone Academy is an inclusive educational learning opportunity for all children, ages 2 to five years, focusing on early intervention for children with developmental disabilities or who are at risk of delay. Children benefit from music, art, story time, computer, dramatic play, gross motor skills (outdoor play), fine motor skills (manipulative), and free exploration. Speech, Occupational, and Physical therapies are offered at Capstone. Therapies are provided during each child’s scheduled classroom hours. 850-458-7735

www.capstoneacademy.org/

Kidz Academy ad on page 23

6025 Enterprise Drive, Pensacola , FL 32505 Kidz Academy North Kampus offers Childcare and Preschool for children with “Special Needs”. This includes children with minor medical complications. Kidz Academy offers State certified childcare personnel and a nurse on staff. We use an intake process to insure your child’s needs can be addressed. The goal of this program is to provided a safe, enjoyable preschool education and learning environment for every child attending.

ad on page 4

850-436-6440

www.shcs.ptdiocese.org/morningstar.html

East Hill Academy ad on page 13

440 East Hecker Road, Century, FL 32535 4401 Avalon Boulevard, Milton , FL 32583 625 West Garden Street, Pensacola , FL 32502 East Hill Academy is dedicated to students with learning disabilities. It is our goal to meet the challenging needs of our students by seeking new ways of teaching that will improve the skills of students who struggle to achieve. The mission of the school is to provide each child with the best individualized education program that will improve their skills and abilities, so they may successfully re-enter mainstream education. 850-437-5560 learn@easthillacademy.com www.easthillacademy.org

Florida Diagnostic Learning & Resource System

Pensacola, FL 32503 FDLRS/Emerald Coast is pleased to provide training and support for parents and educators throughout Escambia, Santa Rosa, and Okaloosa counties, focused on improving the student achievement of exceptional and gifted education students. Services are datadriven and focused on improving student achievement. 850-469-5423

www.fdlrs-k12-ct.schoolloop.com

Learning Ally

We are a national non-profit dedicated to helping students with print disabilities, including blindness, visual impairment and dyslexia. Learning Ally improves the way students learn at home and in the classroom. 800-221-4792

www.learningally.org

Playing with Words 365

A resource to build speech and language skills in everyday experiences. katie@playingwithwords365.com www.playingwithwords365.com

Sylvan Learning Center

2401 Executive Plaza Bldg 8, Pensacola , FL 32504 Our tutors use a personal approach and interactive technology to help kids learn math, reading, writing and more—turning frustration into confidence!

850-435-4472

850-474-9022

Learning Rx

Epilepsy

ad on page 15

5910 Tippen Avenue, Pensacola, FL 32504 LearningRx Brain Training works on the cognitive skills the brain uses to think, read, learn, remember, and pay attention. How we work on those skills is what makes us so unique in the industry: Our clients work face-to-face with personalbrain trainers, doing fun, challenging mental exercises that train foundational brain skills including auditory processing, memory, logic, and more. While many of our clients are children who are struggling in school, we serve children and adults of all ages. 850-466-4999

www.learningrx.com/pensacola

www.sylvanlearning.com/us/pensacola-fl

Epilepsy Foundation of Florida

2401 Executive Plaza Rd #3a, Pensacola, FL 32504 Epilepsy Foundation of Florida (EFOF) leads the fight to overcome the challenges of living with epilepsy and to accelerate therapies to stop seizures, find cures, and save lives. EFOF was established in 1971 as a not-for-profit 501(c)(3). It is the sole licensee and affiliate in the state of the National Epilepsy Foundation®. EFOF serves as the lead advocate for the rights and needs of people with epilepsy and seizures at the local, county, state and national level. 850-433-1395

“We believe in the POSSIBILITY of each child. We believe that each child is UNIQUE and DIFFERENT with his or her own GIFT to the world. We believe in GIVING each child the BEST from their therapists and instructors to realize his or her GOALS. Providing HOPE to families is WHY we are here.”

info@efof.org

www.efof.org

Occupational Therapy Speech Therapy

Physical Therapy

Psychologist Diagnostician

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Community Events And more!

251.210.1632

AmericanAutismCenter.com

8909 Rand Ave.

Daphne AL 36526 www.facebook.com/greaterpensacolaparents

Financial iBudget Florida

4030 Esplanade Way, Tallahassee, FL 32399 iBudget is a new and better way for the Agency for Persons with Disabilities to manage the Medicaid waiver system for people with developmental disabilities. iBudget Florida gives APD customers more control and flexibility to choose services that are important to them, while helping the agency to stay within its Medicaid waiver appropriation. 850-488-4257 apd.ibudget.contacts@apdcares.org www.apd.myflorida.com/ibudget/

Joyful Journey Mom’s Ultimate Guide

Joyful Journey Mom posted the “Ultimate List of Grants and Resources for Families with Special Needs”. JoyfulJourney4me@gmail.com www.joyfuljourneymom.com/ultimate-list-of-grants-andresources-for-families-with-special-needs/

Rehab Foundation of NW Florida

2929 Langley Ave, Ste 202, Pensacola, FL 32504 Funding for rehabilitation of those physically disabled, but who do not have, or are not eligible for financial resources or support from other agencies.

850-478-0297 rehabilitationfo@bellsouth.net https://escambia.communityos.org/zf/profile/service/id/174789

The Gardiner Scholarship (PLSA)

P.O. Box 54429, Jacksonville, FL 32245 The Gardiner Scholarship (PLSA) program (previously called the Personal Learning Scholarship Account) helps parents individualize the educational plans for their children with certain special needs. The Gardiner Scholarship (PLSA) is different than other state scholarships in that it allows parents to personalize the education of their children with unique abilities by directing money toward a combination of programs and approved providers. These include schools, therapists, specialists, curriculum, technology – even a college savings account. This scholarship is for Florida students 3 years old through 12th grade or age 22, whichever comes first, with one of the following disabilities: autism spectrum disorder, muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, PraderWilli syndrome, Spina bifida, Williams syndrome, Phelan-McDermid syndrome or intellectual disability (severe cognitive impairment). Also, students ages 3, 4 or 5 deemed “high risk” due to developmental delays

Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2017

may be eligible for the year they apply. Please visit the website for further eligibility requirements. Click on For Parents then Special Needs Scholarship.

General Information

ing and nurturing environment, we provide services to children with severe developmental disabilities that require on-going nursing care. Our dedicated team of healthcare professionals understands that each family has an individual set of circumstances, needs and preferences. At Montgomery Children’s we are inspired by you to work together creating a plan of care that promotes a nurturing environment of respect, growth and healing

Emergency Preparedness ESC Special Needs

4 Paws for Ability

877-735-7837 gardiner@stepupforstudents.org www.stepupforstudents.org

Pensacola, FL A Special Needs Shelter is a shelter of last resort for people who need more medical supervision than a general population shelter can provide due to special medical needs, but they do not require hospitalization. Registration is voluntary. This registry is for planning purposes. Assistance needed by individuals must be initiated at the time of need by the individual by calling local officials when evacuations have been ordered. All registrations expire after one year and must be updated on the anniversary of the registration. 850-471-6400 em@myescambia.com www.bereadyescambia.com

General Resources Amy Scott Lorton My IEP Advocate

ad on page 3

Amy Scott Lorton has been helping families navigate the special education process in the Escambia, Santa Rosa, Mobile and Baldwin County school districts for 15 years. Amy provides effective advocacy services including: IEP review and analysis, Consultations, IEP meeting attendance and participation, Trainings and workshops. 850-684-IDEA (4332)

www.myIEPadvocate.com

Montgomery Children’s Specialty Center ad on page 27

2853 Forbes Drive, Montgomery, AL 36110 We are Montgomery’s preferred, five star rated children’s nursing and rehabilitation facility. In our car-

334-261-3445

www.montgomerybytutera.com

253 Dayton Avenue, Xenia, Ohio 45385 4 Paws for Ability enriches the lives of children with disabilities by training and placing quality, tasktrained service dogs. 937-374-0385 Info@4PawsForAbility.org www.4pawsforability.org

Agency for Persons with Disabilities

160 W Government St, Ste 412, Pensacola , FL 32502 APD provides assistance in identifying the needs of people with developmental disabilities for supports and services. The agency serves more than 50,000 Floridians with the following disabilities: People severely impaired by Autism, Cerebral palsy, Spina bifida, Intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, Phelan-McDermid syndrome, Children age 3-5 who are at a high risk of a developmental disability. 850-595-8351 Annette.Zeeb@apdcares.org www.apdcares.org

American Hyperbaric Center

8909 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526 American Hyperbaric Center, in Daphne, is a stateof-the-art hyperbaric oxygen therapy facility and is home to the largest hyperbaric oxygen chamber in the region. American Hyperbaric Center conditions treated include Autism, Multiple Sclerosis, Lyme, TBI/PTS, Stroke, RSD/CRPS, Fibromyalgia, Diabetic Foot Wounds, Radiation Injury, Failed Grafts/Flaps, Concussion and other Sports Injuries, Migraine Headaches, Cancer, Crohn’s/Colitis, Cerebral Palsy, Neuropathy, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Chronic Fatigue and much more. 251- 210-1496

www.AmericanHBOT.com

Canine Companions for Independence

8150 Clarcona Ocoee Road, Orlando, FL 32818 Canine Companions for Independence® is a

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Center for Independent Living ESC Independent Living Skills

3600 North Pace Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32505 This service provides trained staff to teach independent living skills: budgeting, writing for resume and job applications, and employment readiness. 850-595-5566

cil-drc@cil-drc.org

www.cil-drc.org/

Center for Parent Information and Resources The Center for Parent Information and Resources is your source for information and resources to support families of children who have disabilities! 973-642-8100 malizo@spannj.org www.parentcenterhub.org

Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart Early Steps

with a variety of conditions and needs.

850-245-4200 CMSPlan@flhealth.gov www.floridahealth.gov/AlternateSites/CMS-Kids

Disability Resource Center (CIL)

3600 North Pace Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32505 Our mission is to assist individuals with disabilities achieve their goals of independence. 850-595-5566

cil-drc@cil-drc.org

www.cil-drc.org

Disability Rights Florida

2473 Care Drive, Suite 200, Tallahassee, FL 32308 Disability Rights Florida was founded in 1977 as the statewide designated protection and advocacy system for individuals with disabilities in the State of Florida. Disability Rights Florida is a not-for-profit corporation that has authority and responsibility under eight federal grants. Our services are free and confidential. 800-342-0823

www.disabilityrightsflorida.org

Easter Seals of Gulf Coast

5150 Bayou Blvd, Suite 1N, Pensacola, FL 32503 The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart is the site of the Western Panhandle Early Steps Program which provides early intervention services for children from birth to three years of age who may have developmental delays living in Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa and Walton counties.

2440 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile, AL 36617 “Together, we empower people through encouragement, education, and employment.” Serving 12 counties in the Alabama-Florida Gulf Coast region, Goodwill Easter Seals provides programs and services to help individuals and families overcome challenges due to disabilities and other barriers that impact economic well-being, self-sufficiency, and quality of life.

Children’s Medical Service

Emerald Coast Pediatric Sleep Consultants

850-416-7656 www.sacred-heart.org/childrenshospital/main/services/page/?ID=1006

Collection of programs for eligible children with special needs. Each one of our programs and services are family-centered and designed to help children

251-471-1581 charlene@gesgc.org www.goodwill-easterseals.org

400 Gulf Breeze Pkwy #204, Gulf Breeze, FL 32561 The mission of Emerald Coast Pediatric Sleep Consultants is to provide comprehensive sleep diagnos-

tic and treatment services to children from birth to age 21 years. A collaborative approach to patient care, with emphasis on addressing biopsychosocial and cultural patient factors, is utilized to determine individualized plans of care. A philosophy of health and wellness is the foundation for treatment.

850-932-3830

www.emeraldcoastsleep.com

Escambia County Area Transit (ECAT) Pensacola, FL 32514 ADA Transportation

850-595-0501 ECAT@myescambia.com www.goecat.com/ada-transportation-info/

Especial Needs

1850 Borman Court, St. Louis, MO 63146 Especial Needs is dedicated to providing our clients with the best selection of adaptive equipment, rehab equipment and therapy solutions for children and adults with special needs. With over 10,000 special needs products focused to mobility, sensory needs and independent living, our experienced staff strives to provide the highest quality service. From the homepage, at the bottom, click on “Funding” to see a list of funding resources. 877-664-4565 sales@especialneeds.com www.especialneeds.com

Family Care Council Florida

P. O. Box 17391, Pensacola, FL 32522 The mission of the Family Care Council Florida (FCCF) is to advocate, educate, and empower individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, partnering with the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD), to bring quality services to individuals for dignity and choice. 800-470-8101 familycarecouncilarea1@gmail.com www.area1fcc.org/

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Providing pediatric services for children who have, or are at risk of, a developmental disability including: ∙ Speech Therapy ∙ Physical Therapy ∙ Occupational Therapy ∙ Vision Therapy ∙ Early Intervention Services

916 East Fairfield Drive Pensacola, FL 32503 (850)434-7755 www.arc-gateway.org 35

www.facebook.com/greaterpensacolaparents

FDLRS/Child Find

30 East Texar Drive, Pensacola, FL 32503 Free developmental, speech, language, hearing, and vision screenings are provided for children, ages 3-21, who are NOT currently enrolled in public school. Screenings are done in Pensacola, Milton, Navarre, Fort Walton Beach and Crestview, FL 850-469-5423 tstoker@escambia.k12.fl.us www.fdlrsemeraldcoast.org

Florida Alliance of Assistive Services and Technology

3333 West Pensacola St, Tallahassee, FL 32304 The Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology, Inc. serves Floridians with disabilities by providing free access to information, referral services, educational programs, and publications in accessible formats on topics such as disability rights, laws, and policies. We also provide assistive technology (AT) device loans as well as funding opportunities for AT. AT is any item, piece of equipment, software, or product system that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the function of individuals with disabilities. 850- 487-3278

lavesta@cil-drc.org

www.faast.org

Guide Dog Foundation

To improve the quality of life for people who are blind, have low vision, or have other special needs. 800-548-4337

info@guidedog.org

www.guidedog.org

March of Dimes

1990 Village Green Way, Ste 3, Tallahassee, FL 32308 Every year in the United States, nearly half a million babies are born too soon, 29,000 of them right here in Florida. With your help, we work to improve the health of babies and support families if something does go wrong. 850-422-3152

www.marchofdimes.com/florida

Marcus Pointe Baptist Church - Project Empower of Northwest Florida

6205 North “W” Street, Pensacola, FL 32505 Project Empower is a grassroots coalition of individuals and organizations dedicated to the dream of Complete Community Inclusion for individuals with a disability. Through Education, Compassion and Community involvement, we can help an individual with a disability feel as though he or she is a welcomed and integral part of the community. 850-686-9369

www.projectempowernwfl.org/home.php

My Pink Lawyer

Project Lifesaver

3916 North 10th Avenue, Pensacola, FL 32503 API in partnership with Escambia Search and Rescue and the Pilot Club of Pensacola is proud to offer Project Lifesaver for individuals with autism who are at risk of wandering. This program is available in both Escambia and Santa Rosa counties and is offered to those with any developmental disability, based on a prioritization of risk factors. Project Lifesaver is a program that features bracelets that emit a radio signal which search and rescue personnel can use to track and locate an individual who is missing.

111 S DeVilliers St, Ste B, Pensacola, FL 32502 At My Pink Lawyer®, we help parents make the best planning decisions possible to care and provide for their special needs loved ones and other family members long into the future. After all, the planning that we do is not really for us. We plan because we loved our families and understand that they will have to live with the decisions we chose to make for their benefit when we had the opportunity to do so.

850-471-7171 www.autismpensacola.org/ourprograms/project-lifesaver/

Nemours Children’s Specialty Care

913-575-4126 santaernest@santa-america.org www.santaamerica.org

850-439-1191

www.mypinklawyer.com

5153 North 9th Avenue, Pensacola, FL 32504 Nemours Children’s Specialty Care offers highly specialized pediatric care in a welcoming, kidfriendly environment. Our experienced pediatric teams work together with your child’s pediatrician or family care provider, pediatric specialists and researchers throughout Nemours and our partners at The Children’s Hospital to achieve the very best outcome for your child. One of our most important partnerships is with you because we believe in family-centered care. 850-505-4700

www.nemours.org

Santa America

308 Belrose Avenue, Daphne, Al 36526 Santa America is a national volunteer service organization with a very special mission. Over one hundred Santa’s across America visit children and families in crisis. Santa Claus visits when a child or family needs him—twelve months a year—bringing love, hope and joy to special needs children in a loving visit of about an hour at home, hospital, or hospice.

Service Dog University

P. O. Box 37157, Pensacola, FL 32526 Service Dog University, Inc. was founded in Northwest Florida in 2014. Our purpose is to enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities by providing service dogs to help improve their independence, dignity and quality of life. 850-723-6365 servicedoguniversity@gmail.com www.servicedoguniversity.net/contact

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Sight Savers America

337 Business Circle, Pelham, AL 35124 Sight Savers America is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) that assists children with obtaining eye exams, glasses, and other needed eye care from local eye care providers and clinics. 877-942-2627 info@sightsaversamerica.org www.sightsaversamerica.org

Southeast ADA Center

The Southeast ADA Center provides information, training, and guidance on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and disability access tailored to the needs of business, government, and individuals. 800-949-4232 adasoutheast@law.syr.edu www.adasoutheast.org

Special Needs Foundation of America

8909 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526 Special Needs Foundation of America (SNFA), is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating, empowering and supporting families with children that have special needs such as Autism, Aspergers, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, etc. It provides grants and subsidies for treatments such as Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, ABA therapy, counseling, etc., and many things not covered by insurance. SNFA has a board of devoted clinicians, parents and individuals who work diligently fundraising and seeking grant opportunities for these families in need. 251-210-1632

specialneedsfoundationofamerica.org

Speech-Language-Hearing AssociationFlorida

School Assembly Programs

We come to you! All ages! Integrates with STEM!

www.animaledzoocation.com

1-800-589-5408 ext. 2 info@animaledzoocation.com

222 S Westmonte Dr, Ste 101, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714 Committed to ensuring that all people with speech, language, and hearing disorders receive services to help them communicate effectively.

407-774-7880 ivermeer@kmgnet.com, info@floridasspeechaudiology.gov www.asha.org/advocacy/state/ info/FL/contacts/

The Arc Gateway-Escambia

3932 North 10th Avenue, Pensacola, FL 32503 The Arc Gateway provides programs and services to over 850 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Our programs and services include Early Intervention, Children’s Therapy, Vocational Training, Recreation, Employment, Transportation, Education, and Residential Support and help to provide lifeenhancing opportunities which promote independence and community inclusion. 850-434-2638 info@arc-gateway.org www.arc-gateway.org

The Arc of the Emerald Coast

6225 Dixie Road, Milton, Fl 32570 Provides services and opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Santa Rosa County, Florida. 850-623-9320 info@horizonsfwb.com www.arcemeraldcoast.org

Tommy Hilfiger Adaptive Clothing

Tommy Hilfiger proudly partnered with Runway of Dreams™ to create a very special collection addressing the challenges the differently-abled community faces each day when getting dressed. Faux buttons and cuff plackets conceal a patented MagnaReady® magnet closure for ease of dressing. info@runwayofdreams.com

www.tommy.com

www.facebook.com/greaterpensacolaparents

Recreation/Therapy Pensacola Museum of Art

ad on page 39

407 South Jefferson Street, Pensacola, FL 32502 Art Academy for Autism is an arts education initiative designed for young adults on the autism spectrum. The program focuses on nurturing artists development and abstract thinking skills within a group environment. Our art educator leads each lesson with the assistance of our dedicated volunteers.The Art Academy for Autism - Young Adults class is held on alternating Fridays from 4:00pm5:30pm. 850-432-6247 vpeacock1@uwf.edu www.pensacolamuseum.org/children.html

Sea No Limits Fishing Clinic ad on page 7

Community Maritime Park, Pensacola, FL 32502 Free fishing clinic Saturday, October 28, for children and adults with physical or intellectual disabilities requiring supervised care. Strictly limited to the first 250 applicants (plus up to 2 additional family members/guardians/care. Pre-Registration for the Fishing Clinic is required. See our ad in this issue for more information. 850-932-2213

www.SeaNoLimits.com

SkyZone Sensory Sundays ad on page 5

5007 N Davis Hwy, Unit 8A, Pensacola, FL 32503 Every first and third Sunday of every month, from 9:30 am - 10:30 am, Sky Zone will turn off the music and dial down the distractions for the comfort

of our extra special jumpers. We welcome children and adults with special needs and their siblings, family and friends to jump for 60 minutes for $10. We will make every effort to accommodate all jumpers with any kind of special needs. 850-462-9800 pensacola@skyzone.com www.skyzone.com/pensacola/promos-deals

Access To Recreation

Provides exercise and recreational equipment for people with disabilities. Online equipment items such wheelchair accessories, daily living, replacement parts, bath and shower accessories, Lifts, safety equipment, ramps, manual and power chairs, etc. 800-634-4351 CustomerService@AccessTR.com www.accesstr.com

AMBUCS

A charitable service organization dedicated to creating mobility and independence for people with disabilities by providing AmTryke therapeutic tricycles to children with disabilities. 800-838-1845 ambucs@ambucs.org www.ambucs.org

Autism Surfs

Mary Esther, FL Autism Surfs is a community of friends and families that have come together with the purpose of teaching children with Autism Spectrum Disorder to surf.

autism.surfs@yahoo.com

Find us on Facebook

Ballet Pensacola

400 South Jefferson Street, Pensacola, FL 32502 Twice per week, Ballet Pensacola’s Children’s Division Director provides dance instruction to the students at Capstone Academy. The program has

helped children make strides in their mobility and confidence. The program is provided at no charge to Capstone or the participating families. 850-432-9546

frankgiammaria@balletpensacola.com

Breathe Pensacola - Yoga

505 South Adams Street , Pensacola , FL 32502 We offer private sessions or small classes designed for children who have special needs, including ADD/ADHD, sensory integration disorders, highfunctioning autism, Down syndrome, and neurological learning disabilities. Regular yoga practice, as an adjunct to traditional PT and OT therapies, can enhance a child’s physical, mental and emotional development in a safe and gentle manner. Christa Sonnier is trained and certified in the Sonia Sumar Method of Yoga for the Special Child and offers private sessions and classes to best serve the needs of your child. 850-470-4444 info@breathepcola.com www.breathepcola.com

Breathe Pensacola - Yoga

3101 East Cervantes Street, Pensacola , FL 32503 We offer private sessions or small classes designed for children who have special needs, including ADD/ADHD, sensory integration disorders, highfunctioning autism, Down syndrome, and neurological learning disabilities. Regular yoga practice, as an adjunct to traditional PT and OT therapies, can enhance a child’s physical, mental and emotional development in a safe and gentle manner. Christa Sonnier is trained and certified in the Sonia Sumar Method of Yoga for the Special Child and offers private sessions and classes to best serve the needs of your child. 850-470-4444 info@breathepcola.com www.breathepcola.com

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Buckaroo Barn

39821 Duffee Lane, Bay Minette, AL 36507 Physical Therapy Specializing in Hippotherapy for Special Little Buckaroos

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We will be having this years event on Saturday, September 9th with a rain day on Sunday the 10th. We will be able to schedule families of four for dolphin cruises, sailing excursions, airboat (Ft. Walton Beach) and banana rides. 850-438-5555 spotate@aol.com www.captainsforkids.com

Chuck E Cheese

7350 Plantation, Pensacola, FL 32504 We now offer a sensory-friendly experience on the first Sunday of every month. 2 hours before the restaurant opens to the general public, we’re sensory sensitive for children with autism & special needs. The Sensory Sensitive Sundays experience includes less crowding and noise, lighting, and music turned off or down, Limited appearances by Chuck E., Food and games are offered.

Dive Pros Pensacola- Adaptive SCUBA

7203 West Highway 98, Pensacola, FL 32506 Dive Pro’s Open Water training programs for people with disabilities are taught with a high degree of safety because we use teaching techniques developed with over 20 years of continuous feedback and research. Handicapped students are trained and certified according to Handicapped Scuba Association (HSA) Physical Performance Standards and a multi level certification system. The system is so precise and sensitive it enables Dive Pros to train people with a wide range of disabilities, including paraplegia, quadriplegia, the blind and those with high – functioning brain injuries. 850-456-8845 kevin@florida-divepros.com www.florida-divepros.com/

Equine Education Consultants, Inc. at Lake Forest Stables

268 Equine Circle, Daphne, AL 36526 Equine Educational Consultants, Inc. was created to provide an opportunity for those with special needs to experience the joy and motivation that horses provide just by allowing us to share their world. 770-355-6514 daphne@lakeforeststables.org www.lakeforeststables.org

Grace Rides

1560 Hickory Street, Niceville, FL 32578 Our mission at GRACE Rides is to provide the therapeutic benefits of equine-assisted activities to individuals with special needs, and in so doing to improve the lives and community of each of our riders and their family members, each of our service horses, and each of our volunteers. 850-259-9195

www.gracerides.com

Gulf Coast Cheer All Star Elite

4607 Saufley Field Rd, Pensacola , FL 32526 Gulf Coast Cheer All Star Elite presents Twisters, a new special needs all-star cheerleading team! 850-898-3366 info@gulfcoastelitecheer.com www.gulfcoastelitecheer.com

Leaning Post Ranch

4150 Cedar Springs Road, Molino, FL 32577 The Leaning Post Ranch (LPR) is a project of Panhandle Youth Assistance Program, Inc. (PYAPI), a 501 (C) (3) non-profit organization licensed by the state of Florida as a prevention program. To provide equine assisted activities and therapeutic riding to individuals with disabilities and at-risk youth in Northwest Florida. We offer health, hope and healing through horses. 850-587-5940 leaningpostranchinc@gmail.com www.theleaningpostranch.org

www.facebook.com/greaterpensacolaparents

Miracle League of Pensacola

The Miracle League of Pensacola’s mission is to provide a safe organized baseball league and facilities for Gulf Coast persons with mental and/ or physical challenges where every player plays, every player hits, every player gets on base, every player scores, and every player wins – every inning. 850-232-3845 or 850-393-5043 tgodwin@cox.net www.miracleleaguepensacola.org

Pyramid

7309 West Highway 98, Pensacola, FL 32506 Adults ages 18 and up with developmental disabilities are able to see themselves as singers, dancers, talented artists, sculptors and jewelers creating for art patrons across Florida and beyond. Pyramid offers an arts program, in tandem with a curriculum of computer and literacy training, peer counseling and skill-development classes, physical-nutritional and behavioral assistance. 850-453-3341

www.pyramidinc.org

SEASTARS Aquatics

5425 Hibiscus Road, Pensacola , FL 32504 To promote and foster the success and growth of children who are economically, physically, and mentally challenged by providing individualized attention as a part of a structured competitive swim team program. To improve the quality of life for challenged children by developing successful studentathlete skills. These skills help aid their pursuit of higher education and achievement of life goals. 850-418-0644

www.seastarsaquatics.org

Special Olympics ESC Sports and Training Program

2001 East Lloyd Street, Pensacola, FL 32503 Special Olympics provides year-round sports train-

ing and competition to children and adults 8 years of age and older with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 850-291-6234 escambia/

www.specialolympicsflorida.org/

Water Planet Dolphin Therapy

203 Greenwood Drive, Panama City Beach, FL 32407 We offer two therapy options to interact with the dolphins. We have found the “Harmony” Program helps a wide variety of children: most spectra of autism, manic depression, Rett Syndrome, Tourette’s Syndrome, ADHD, Down, and hyperactivity. Our Serenity Program caters to children with serious developmental delays, physical and motor disabilities like Cerebral Palsy, Head and Spinal Cord Injury, Mitochondrial Disorder. Spina Bifida, Muscular Dystrophy, Angelman’s Syndrome and other disabilities, which require body work and specialized interventions. 850-230-6030 info@waterplanetusa.com www.waterplanetusa.com

Spina Bifida Spina Bifida Association of Central Florida

100 West Lucerne Circle, Suite 100-G, Orlando, FL 32801 The Spina Bifida Association of Central Florida (SBACFL) is a dedicated group of individuals living with Spina Bifida and their families, as well as professionals and community volunteers, working to educate, advocate, network, provide resources and bring about public awareness of Spina Bifida. 407-248-9210

www.sbacentralflorida.org

Support Groups 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome and Syndromes

November is 22q Awareness month in the United States. May 20, 2018 is the 22q Worldwide Awareness Day at the Gulf Breeze zoo in Gulf Breeze, Florida. 520-444-9498

www.22q.org

Facing Forward

Parents of children with facial abnormalities. 850-476-2701

Mended Little Hearts of Pensacola

Pensacola, FL Mended Little Hearts has provided patients and families of children with congenital heart disease many services that directly improve their quality of life. These services are group programs, education resources, hospital outreach CHD Awareness initiatives, online connections and advocacy. To locate the Pensacola chapter click Find MLH groups at the top right corner of the website 850-972-8160

www.mendedlittlehearts.org

Pensacola Exceptional Parents Connection

Pensacola, FL This is a parent-led group open to parents, friends, and support people of children with varying exceptionalities including Down syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Autism, Spina Bifida, and any other intellectual and developmental disabilities. Our mission is to enhance the lives of children with varying exceptionalities by providing resources, training, education, and emotional support to families. The goal of this group is to provide a regularly scheduled meeting of parents who will support each other by listening, sharing, and laughing. This is a friendly

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place to share concerns and ask questions, and for answers to be given by others who have â&#x20AC;&#x153;been through it.â&#x20AC;? We have speakers on various topics and open discussions about relevant topics to the group. All are welcome to join us! Meetings held the last Thursday or every month at 6pm at The Pollak Training Center at ARC Gateway, 1000 East Fairfield Drive, Pensacola, FL 32503. 850-384-7330 or 850-393-8808

Sibshops

Sibling support group that offers opportunities for the brothers and sisters of children with special health, mental health and developmental needs to obtain peer support and education within a recreational context. This group is open to 8-13 year olds. Find us on Facebook 888-445-9662

www.fdlrsemeraldcoast.org

The Starfish Project NWFL

1762 Sea Lark Lane, Navarre, FL 32566 We currently provide parent education and support in addition to providing opportunities for families to connect during fun seasonal events. These resources are available to _x0003_a myriad of children and families with a wide variety of exceptional needs. 850-204-8030

www.thestarfishprojectnwfl.org

Therapy American Autism and Rehabilitation Center

ad on page 33

The Arc Gateway/Pearl Nelson Child Development Center ad on page 35

916 East Fairfield Drive, Pensacola, FL 32503 The Pearl Nelson Center provides pediatric services for children who have, or at risk of, a developmental disability including speech therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, vision therapy and early intervention services. 850-434-7755 info@arc-gateway.org www.arc-gateway.org

Capstone Adaptive Learning and Therapy Centers ad on page 45

2912 North E Street, Pensacola, FL 32501 Capstone Adaptive Learning & Therapy Centers is the premier provider of multi-faceted programs for infants, children, youth and adults with a spectrum of abilities and disabilities in Northwest Florida including pediatric therapies, specialized child care, youth transition, charter schools for (3 to 5 year olds) Pre-K and Voluntary Pre-kindergarten (VPK). 850-432-1596

www.capstonelearning.org

www.facebook.com/greaterpensacolaparents

Baptist Health Care Speech Center

1717 North E Street, Ste 236, Pensacola, FL 32501 Baptist Hospital’s Speech Center’s friendly, expert therapists assist people with speaking difficulties. Our certified speech pathologists treat a wide range of disorders for people of all ages—from newborns to adults. All staff members hold the Speech–Language–Hearing Association’s Certificate of Clinical Competence and are licensed by the state of Florida. 850-434-4957

www.ebaptisthealthcare.org/Speech/

Beyond Expectations

Pensacola , FL Services, including applied behavior analysis and counseling, are provided to clients in a variety of settings including in home, at school, or at one of our clinics. Beyond Expectations is owned and operated by Karen Reid, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Licensed Mental Health Counselor. 850-362-6824 karen@beyondexpectationsaba.com www.beyondexpectationsaba.com

Center for Pediatric Rehabilitation

1108-A Airport Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32504 We are Pensacola’s first and most experienced pediatric rehabilitation center offering speech, occupational and physical therapies for children with developmental, neurological and organic disorders. Our team provides the most current treatment approaches, in a family friendly environment, to help children reach their highest potential. 850-484-9292

www.centerforpediatricrehabilitation.com

Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart Pediatric Rehabilitation Center

5151 North 9th Avenue, Pensacola, FL 32504 Our comprehensive program includes physical, occupational, speech, aquatic, social skills and foodaversion therapies. Our facilities feature a spacious,

Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2017

kid-friendly gym, as well as private treatment rooms. Our experienced therapists are specially trained in care for children and are dedicated to serving kids of all ages.

850-416-7340 www.sacred-heart.org/ChildrensHospital/ PediatricTherapy/

Greater Pensacola Behavior Services (GPBS)

Pensacola , FL GPBS was created around the premise that all children receiving ABA therapy should have dedicated and quality care. All children at our agency begin services with a certified Analyst (BCBA or BCaBA). Analysts follow the strict guidelines of the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). 850-723-6570 GreaterPensacolaABA@gmail.com www.greaterpensacolaaba.com

Pediatric Therapy Center of NWFL

4624 Summerdale Boulevard, Pace, FL 32571 Pediatric Therapy Center of NWFL is a provider of speech, physical and occupational therapy to children and adolescents. We serve children in clinic environments, child care centers, homes, and schools in Santa Rosa, Escambia and Okaloosa counties. The PTC team of pediatric specialists includes occupational therapists, physical therapists, and speech therapists who work closely together to create individualized treatment plans. Therapy is carried out in an atmosphere focused on creativity and fun. 850-994-3456

www.pediatrictherapycenterflorida.com

The Listening Program

Music listening therapy that provides engaging brain stimulation to improve performance in school, work and life. It gently trains the auditory system to accurately process sound. Auditory processing problems are of-

ten found in children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADD, dyslexia and learning disabilities.

888-228-1798 info@advancedbrain.com www.advancedbrain.com

Vision Impaired American Sign Language University Resources to help learn ASL. www.lifeprint.com

Bureau of Braille and Talking Books Library

http://dbs.myflorida.com/library/

Florida Division of Blind Services

600 University Office Blvd, Ste 4, Pensacola , FL 32504 We strive to ensure blind and visually-impaired Floridians have the tools, support and opportunity to achieve success. 850-484-5122

http://dbs.myflorida.com

Independence for the Blind of NW Florida

3107 North Davis Highway, Pensacola , FL 32503 Independence for the Blind offers a wide range of education and training. Our programs are designed to meet the emotional and practical needs of the blind and visually impaired community. 850-477-2663

www.ibwest.org

www.greaterpensacolaparents.com

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Bright Expectations

Bright Expectations (BE) is Florida’s site dedicated to helping our residents with unique abilities find the support, resources, and inspiration they and their families need to break barriers, defy lowered expectations, and achieve the brightest futures they can imagine.

www.floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/people-withdisabilities/bright-expectations/

Financial Aid for College Students With Disabilities

Our mission is to help students (or other aspiring professionals) understand what it takes to land their perfect career, from picking the right school all the way to climbing the company ladder. We are passionate about creating a one-stop, comprehensive resource that can guide individuals through each of the steps they need to take to begin, further, or change their career path.

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Kids Health from Nemours

KidsHealth is one of the largest resources online for medically reviewed health information written for parents, kids, and teens. www.kidshealth.org

Parent Involvement Exceptional Education in Florida

Website providing resources for early intervention and exceptional student education. http://forparents.florida-ese.org/index.aspx

Parenting Special Needs Magazine

We at Parenting Special Needs Magazine are making it our mission to provide parents of children with special needs of all ages and stages of life, both information and inspiration. Through Parenting Special Needs On Line Magazine, we’ve created a world that provides practical tips, shares life’s lessons, tackles the challenges and celebrates the joys of one of life’s greatest gifts. www.parentingspecialneeds.org

Pathways.org

www.lovethatmax.com/2015/04/free-things-for-kids-withspecial-needs.html

800-955-2445 friends@pathways.org www.pathways.org

Operation Autism for Military Families

Websites/Publications

www.our-kids.org

Love That Max

A list of 22 free things, services and grants for kids with special needs.

ing children of varying diagnosis; everything from indefinite developmental delays and sensory integration problems, to cerebral palsy, to rare genetic disorders.

Operation Autism directly supports U.S. military families touched by autism and autism spectrum disorders. It serves as an introduction to autism, a guide for the life journey with autism, and a ready reference for available resources, services, and support. www.operationautismonline.org

Our-Kids

Devoted to Raising Special Kids with Special Needs. The Our-Kids list consist of over 700 people represent-

Pathways.org provides FREE tools to maximize all children’s motor, sensory, and communication development.

Sesame Street Autism: Resources for Parents

Sesame Street and Autism: See Amazing in All Children, is a nationwide initiative aimed at communities with children ages 2 to 5. Developed with input from parents, people who serve the autism community, and people with autism. See Amazing in All Children offers families ways to manage common challenges, to simplify everyday activities, and to grow connections and support from family, friends, and community. www.autism.sesamestreet.org/ GPP

www.facebook.com/greaterpensacolaparents

FamilyCalendar This Month Friday, September 1

Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Night Watch 7:30 p.m. Pensacola Little Theatre. Directed by Brandi Hicks Lane. An outstanding Broadway success, this ingeniously devised thriller builds steadily in menace and suspense until the final, breathstopping moment of its unexpected “twist” ending. What do you see in the dead of night? For more info and tickets, call (850) 432-2042 or visit www. pensacolalittletheatre.com. In addition, Pensacola Little Theatre is hosting a murder mystery dinner on September 1 only at 6 p.m. Tickets are $80 and include an open bar, hors d’oeuvres from Jackson’s Steakhouse, dinner theatre show by Improbable Cause Mystery Theatre, and your ticket to see Night Watch at 7:30 p.m. Stargazing on Pensacola Beach 6:30 p.m. Pensacola Beach Pavilion. The Escambia Amateur Astronomers’ Association offers free stargazing at the Gulfside Pavilion starting at sunset. The times listed are approximate. Volunteers will set up nearly 20 telescopes ranging in strength and size from duplicates of Galileo’s original telescope to today’s incredible large-scope devices for the public to take a peek at wonders such as Jupiter, the Milky Way and other galaxies. For more info, call Dewey Barker at (850) 450-7767 or visit http://visitpensacolabeach.com/ whats-happening-star-gazing/. The Pensacola Chapter of Powerful Women of the Gulf Coast Monthly Meeting Meets the 1st Friday of every month at the Gulf Coast Kid’s House from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The program includes education segments, presentations by local business women and is designed to provide women with the resources and connections they need to help them grow personally and professionally. Lunch provided. Visit www.powerfulwomengulfcoast.com.

Saturday, September 2

Stargazing on Pensacola Beach 6:30 p.m. For more info, see September 1 listing.

In case of inclement weather, the event will be canceled.

Parents’ Night Out at Mojo Elite Gymnastics 6-10 p.m. 6890 W Fairfield Dr., Pensacola. Children 4 and under must have adult supervision. Parents can drop older children off for only $20 per child for supervised play. Admission covers pizza and drinks also. Parents are welcome to stay and play for free if they choose. Open to the public; no membership required. Call (850) 733-3547 or visit www. mojogymnastics.com.

Tuesday, September 5

Free Beginner and Intermediate Ukulele Class 9:30-11 a.m. Blues Angel Music, 657 N. Pace Blvd., Pensacola. Our free beginner ukulele classes are designed to get you familiarized with the ukulele, including parts of the ukulele, how to hold it, how to tune it, basic chord shapes, basic strumming patterns and chord changes for your first song! The intermediate class focuses on learning songs and playing while singing along.For more info, call (850) 457-7557. Palafox Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Martin Luther King, Jr. Plaza. Fresh produce, live plants, baked goods, fine art, and antiques are just a few of the items offered by vendors at Palafox Market in Downtown Pensacola. Items originate directly from onsite vendors who grow, make, or create the fruits, vegetables, herbs, and art for sale. For more info, visit www.palafoxmarket.com. Santa Rosa Farmers Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 4587 Woodbine Road, Pace (in front of The Pace Presbyterian Church). Providing local goods, including produce, baked breads, canned preserves, cooked meats and even wood-fired pizza. Debby’s Kitchen 10 a.m.-noon. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. This is a cooking class for the novice cook at any age! Educational, fun and offers some basic knife and sauce skills to appeal to anyone. $10 for members, $15 for nonmembers. Call (850) 433-5353 ext. 10 or visit http://everman.org/ to reserve your spot in advance.

Kids’ Movie Club Presents: Disney’s Animated Happy Feet (2006) 10 a.m. Saenger Theatre. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at the Saenger Box Office only. Box Office Hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The Box Office will open an hour before showtime, but we recommend purchasing beforehand to avoid line waiting. For more info, visit www.pensacolasaenger.com/ or call (850) 595-3880.

Uni the Unicorn and the Dream Come True Storytime at Barnes and Noble 11 a.m. 1200 Airport Boulevard, Pensacola. Join us for storytime and activities featuring the sequel to Uni the Unicorn. Follow Uni and the little girl who believes in unicorns, as they finally meet and work together to save a magical land and its inhabitants! Call (850) 969-9554 or visit https://stores.barnesandnoble.com/store/2926 for more info.

Saenger Classic Movie Series Presents: Bringing Up Baby 7 p.m. Saenger Theatre. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at the Saenger Box Office only. Box Office Hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The Box Office will open an hour before showtime, but we recommend purchasing beforehand to avoid line waiting. For more info, visit www.pensacolasaenger.com/ or call (850) 595-3880.

Sunday, September 3

Gulf Coast Summer Fest - Jazz Edition 3:30-11:45 p.m. Pensacola Community Maritime Park, 301 W Main Street. Featuring: Boney James, Mindi Abair, Cindy Bradley, Nick Colionne and Althea Rene Adam Hawley. Advance Limited Tickets: $50; General Admission: $65; Day of Show: $80. Bring your coolers, lawn chairs & umbrellas. No glass containers, tents or grills allowed. For more info, visit https://www.gulfcoastsummerfestjazzedition.com/ or call (800) 745-3000. Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Night Watch 7:30 p.m. Pensacola Little Theatre. For details, see September 1 listing.

Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2017

Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Night Watch 3 p.m. Pensacola Little Theatre. For details, see September 1 listing. Trivia Trek 10 a.m.-3 p.m. every Sunday, at the Gulf Breeze Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. Bring your family, bring your pets! 1.5 mile walk with 12 trivia questions will be posted. Ballots are $2 each and all proceeds are donated to the Community Center After School Program and local animal shelters. For more info, call Cissi at (850) 393-4605. Worship on the Water 9 and 11 a.m. weekly church services held in the tent at the Flora-Bama. The service always draws a large and friendly crowd. Visit www.visitperdido.com/ events/worship-on-the-water. Art on the Boardwalk Noon-6 p.m. on Pensacola Beach. Ten artists will show and tell each Sunday through September.

2017 Bands on the Beach 7-9 p.m. The free concert series features a lineup of performers for every musical taste and is held each Tuesday night, through Oct. 31. Located at the Gulfside Pavilion at Casino Beach, spectators are encouraged to take their own lawn chairs and blankets. Pets and glass are prohibited. Organized by the Santa Rosa Island Authority. For more info, visit www.visitpensacolabeach.com or call (850) 932-2257. Today’s performers are Mr. Big and the Rhythm Sisters. Gulf Breeze Farmers Market 4-8 p.m. every Tuesday evening, Gulf Breeze Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. Fresh produce to local Lonestar Kitchen to jewelry and soaps. Come support local artists. For more info, visit www. facebook.com/pg/gbfarmersmarket/ or call (850) 867-7263. Preschool Story Time 10:30-11:30 a.m. Southwest Branch Library, 12248 Gulf Beach Highway, Pensacola. Stories, songs and movement designed to build future readers! For more info, call (850) 453-7780. Story Sprouts 10 a.m.-noon. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. Children ages 3-5 are invited to do arts & crafts, make a snack and have story time. The classes are creative and have an organic, environmental and local twist. Price: Complimentary. Call (850) 433-5353 ext. 10 or visit http:// everman.org/.

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Funky Flow Yoga 6-7 p.m. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. Free. Funky Flow is a creative hour with fun postures and music, combining yin and yang postures. Please wear comfortable clothing. All you need is yourself, a mat if you have one and an open mind. Call (850) 433-5353 ext. 10 or visit http://everman.org/.

Wednesday, September 6

Blue Angels Practice 11:30 a.m. National Naval Aviation Museum - viewing area, 1750 Radford Blvd., Pensacola. FREE. Call (850) 452-3604 or visit www.navalaviationmuseum. org/ for more info.

Thursday, September 7

Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Night Watch 7:30 p.m. Pensacola Little Theatre. For details, see September 1 listing. WSRE The Vietnam War Documentary Screening 7 p.m. Jean & Paul Amos Performance Studio at Pensacola State College, 1000 College Blvd. Presentation of a special preview screening of highlights from documentary The Vietnam War project by filmmakers Ken Burns and Lynn Novick. For more info, visit www.wsre.org. Chef Challenge: A Challenge to End Hunger 6-9 p.m. Sanders Beach - Corrine Jones Resource Center, 913 I Street, Pensacola. Chef Challenge is Feeding the Gulf Coast’s annual fundraiser that brings together some of our area’s most celebrated chefs and restaurants for an evening of superb

www.greaterpensacolaparents.com

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Calendar food and drink, live entertainment, and a vast silent auction - all in the name of ending hunger. For more info, visit https://feedingthegulfcoast.org/. Teen Art Studio at the Pensacola Museum of Art 4-5:30 p.m. Students will explore a broad range of media, artistic styles, and participate in guided gallery talks and critiques in the studio. Enjoy learning new skills, experimenting with materials, meeting new people, and find your own aesthetic every Thursday at the PMoA. Open to all skill levels. Ages: 14-18 years old. Cost: $10/members and $15/nonmembers, per class. Register at www.pensacolamuseum.org/ or call (850) 432-6247. RadioLive Concert Series 5 p.m. Museum of Commerce, 201 East Zaragoza Street. After a two-year hiatus, WUWF’s popular monthly acoustic concert series, RadioLive, returns. RadioLive fans will look forward to enjoying the performances of many old friends and new musical groups in the coming months. The scheduled performers for September 7 are Grant Peeples, Sarah Mac Band and Smithfield Fair. Tickets are $10 and available in advance at wuwf.org or at the door on the day of the show. Doors open at 5 p.m. Show starts promptly at 6 p.m.

Friday, September 8

Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Night Watch 7:30 p.m. Pensacola Little Theatre. For details, see September 1 listing. Preschool Art Time - Watercolor Bodies at the Pensacola Museum of Art 10-11 a.m. First and third Fridays for ages 3-5 years old. Introduce your littlest artists to the world of art through fun and engaging projects. Artists will manipulate a variety of materials, and practice their fine motor skills while encouraging their creative explorations. Remember, always dress for a mess! Cost: $5/ members and $8/non-members, per class. Register at www.pensacolamuseum.org/ or call (850) 432-6247. 15th Annual Corvette Show on Pensacola Beach 5-8 p.m. Join Vette lovers for a welcome dinner and a weekend of fun in the sun on Pensacola Beach. More info and registration can be found at www. miraclestripcorvette.com or by calling (850) 375-6993.

Saturday, September 9

Pensacola Dragon Boat Festival 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Bayview Park, 2001 E Lloyd St, Pensacola. Includes music, vendor booths and children’s area (fishing, sack races and sprinklers). For more info, call (251) 979-0553 or visit http://pensacoladragonboatfestival.com/. Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Night Watch 7:30 p.m. For details, see September 1 listing. 4901 West Fairfield Dr., Pensacola, FL 32506 Phone: (850) 458-7735

Palafox Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Martin Luther King, Jr. Plaza. For more info, see September 2 listing.

• charter school for ESE pre-K • child care center • speech, occupational & pediatric therapies • low student-teacher ratio

Parents’ Night Out at Mojo Elite Gymnastics 6-10 p.m. 6890 W Fairfield Dr., Pensacola. For more info, see September 2 listing. Santa Rosa Farmers Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 4587 Woodbine Road, Pace (in front of The Pace Presbyterian Church). For more info, see September 2 listing.

5308 Stewart Street Milton, FL 32570 Phone: (850) 626-3091

CapstoneLearning.org

www.facebook.com/greaterpensacolaparents

FamilyCalendar Council on Aging’s Rat Race 5K 8:30 a.m.-noon. 211 Bayfront Pkwy, Pensacola. This family-friendly 5K is open to all, whether you wish to run, walk, or bike. In association with our annual fundraiser, the Rat Pack Reunion, the Rat Race seeks to encourage our local community to develop a healthy lifestyle through exercise and inform people on the effects of aging. For more info, visit https:// downtownpensacola.com/. Bay Bluffs & Chimney Park Cleanups 9 -10 a.m. Come join the Pensacola Scenic Highway Foundation, Earth Ethics and Ocean Hour for a two-location clean-up on Scenic Highway the second Saturday of every month. Location one is Bay Bluffs Park on Scenic Highway at Summit Blvd. Second location is two miles north at Chimney Park on Scenic Highway at Langley Ave. Buckets, grabbers, gloves and trash bags supplied. Sign-in at 8:45. Please dress for the weather and bring water, bug spray and sunscreen as needed. E-mail oceanhourfl@gmail.com or BayBluffsCleanUp@gmail. com; visit www.facebook.com/oceanhourfl or www. oceanhourfl.com. Or call (850) 207-9326 and leave a message. University of West Florida Home Football Game 6 p.m. kickoff. Community Maritime Park, 301 West Main Street, Pensacola. Don’t miss the return of the Argo Football in 2017 at Blue Wahoo Stadium. For more info, call (850) 474-3003 or visit http:// goargos.com/. 15th Annual Corvette Show on Pensacola Beach Registration from 8-10 a.m. For details, see September 8 listing. BONFEST PENSACOLA 2017 Noon-4 p.m. Booker T. Washington High School, 6000 College Parkway, Pensacola. Free admission. Authentic Japanese food, dancing, fun & activities for all ages! Matsuriza Taiko Drummers from EPCOT Center. For more info, call (850) 602-4385. Inaugural Hunger Games at Harley Davidson 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 6385 Pensacola Boulevard, Pensacola. Come out and enjoy this unique event, a blend of food truck and renaissance fest. Free activities include a Kid Zone with bouncers, demonstrations and eating contests. Food trucks include 3-D Eats and Tea Food Truck, Joe’s Caribe, Lonestar Kitchens, Wrighteous Eats, Street Treats, Belly Busters Foodwagon, Twisted and Corny, Chile Lindo, Hip Pocket Deli, I Luv Lemonade, Snow Biz Pensacola and Jordan Valley. Customers cast votes for their favorite food truck to take home the “Hunger Helm.” Proceeds of this event to benefit local charities such as Big Brothers Big Sisters and McArthur Elementary School PTA. Saturday Workshops at the Pensacola Museum of Art Alternating Saturdays. Ages 5-9: 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; ages 10-13: 2-4 p.m. Saturday Workshops are centered on our current exhibitions and will use the PMoA’s galleries as studio. All classes include a tour of the exhibitions and group discussions about selected artworks. Students engage with art history, art fundamentals, and are free to explore artistic materials, and utilize the museum as a creative

Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2017

laboratory. Join us for one or all of the featured workshops. Cost: $10/members and $15/non-members, per class. Register at www.pensacolamuseum. org/ or call (850) 432-6247.

How to Catch a Monster Storytime at Barnes and Noble 11 a.m. 1200 Airport Boulevard, Pensacola. Is there a monster in your closet? Are you brave enough to catch him? Parents and children will love this fun, inventive picture book, which reminds us that things aren’t always as scary as they seem. Join us for Storytime, with activities to follow. Call (850) 9699554 or visit https://stores.barnesandnoble.com/ store/2926 for more info.

Sunday, September 10

Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Night Watch 3 p.m. Pensacola Little Theatre. For details, see September 1 listing. Trivia Trek 10 a.m.-3 p.m. every Sunday, at the Gulf Breeze Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. For details, see September 3 listing. Worship on the Water 9 and 11 a.m. weekly church services held in the tent at the Flora-Bama. For more info, see September 3 listing. Art on the Boardwalk Noon-6 p.m. on Pensacola Beach. For details, see September 3 listing. American Girl Club at Barnes and Noble 2 p.m. 1200 Airport Boulevard, Pensacola. Join us for fun, crafts, samples of cookies and drinks from our Barnes & Noble Cafe as we discuss a selected American Girl with Stephanie. Call (850) 969-9554 or visit https://stores.barnesandnoble.com/store/2926 for more info.

Tuesday, September 12

Weight-Loss Surgery Support Group at Baptist Health Care 5:30-6:30 p.m. Baptist Towers, Tower 3, Ground Floor. Baptist Weight-Loss Center, 1717 North E St. For more information, call (850) 437-8746. 2017 Bands on the Beach 7-9 p.m. Located at the Gulfside Pavilion at Casino Beach. Today’s performer is Mass Kunfuzion. For details, see September 5 listing. Gulf Breeze Farmers Market 4-8 p.m. every Tuesday evening, Gulf Breeze Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. For details, see September 5 listing. Blue Angels Practice 11:30 a.m. National Naval Aviation Museum - viewing area, 1750 Radford Blvd., Pensacola. For details, see September 6 listing. Preschool Story Time 10:30-11:30 a.m. Southwest Branch Library, 12248 Gulf Beach Highway, Pensacola. For details, see September 5 listing. Story Sprouts 10 a.m.-noon. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. For details, see September 5 listing. Funky Flow Yoga 6-7 p.m. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. For details, see September 5 listing.

Wednesday, September 13

Blue Angels Practice 11:30 a.m. National Naval Aviation Museum - viewing area, 1750 Radford Blvd., Pensacola. For details, see September 6 listing. Story Seedlings 2:45-4 p.m. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. Story Seedlings builds on the foundations begun in Sprouts with emphasis on chapter books. Lessons are geared for 4- to 7-yearolds, but siblings under 10 are welcome to join and participate as they like! Cost: complimentary. Call (850) 433-5353 ext. 10 or visit http://everman.org/.

Thursday, September 14

Natural Healing/Cancer Study Group 6-8:30 p.m. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. A group that studies about the illness of cancer. Presentations are done through DVDs or by live speakers who share personal insights and experiences. Call (850) 438-0402 ext. 17 or visit http://everman.org/. Teen Art Studio at the Pensacola Museum of Art 4-5:30 p.m. Students will explore a broad range of media, artistic styles, and participate in guided gallery talks and critiques in the studio. For details, see September 7 listing.

Friday, September 15

Gallery Night 5-9 p.m. Stroll through the charming brick walkways of downtown Pensacola to experience an eclectic array of local music, art and cuisine. Gallery Night is a free event and many businesses provide light refreshments. Visit downtownpensacola.com/ or call (850) 434-5371. The Gulf Breeze Chapter of Powerful Women of the Gulf Coast Monthly Meeting Meets the 3rd Friday of every month at the Hampton Inn & Suites from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Please join us for this time of non-traditional networking and education. The program includes education segments, presentations by local business women and is designed to provide women with the resources and connections they need to help them grow personally and professionally. Lunch provided. Visit www.powerfulwomengulfcoast.com. Xtreme Team Tennis Roger Scott Tennis Center, 2130 Summit Blvd., Pensacola. Team match format; 5 courts: ladies’ and men’s singles, doubles, and mixed. Benefitting The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart. For more info, call (850) 281-6193 or visit www. rogerscotttennis.com/. Taste of the Beach Festival Pensacola Beach’s annual foodie festival that celebrates the beach’s talented chefs and their unique coastal cuisine with cooking demonstrations, chef challenges, sample tastings and a free live concert. The party gets started Friday night with a special, ticketed VIP event at the Hilton Pensacola Beach Front at 6 p.m. Tickets are $75 each and can be purchased on the Taste of the Beach website. The daylong Taste of the Beach outdoor festival opens on Saturday at 10:30 a.m. with about 20 beach restaurants showcasing their signature dishes for just $5 each. The festival, which is centered around the Gulfside Pavilion

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Worship on the Water 9 and 11 a.m. weekly church services held in the tent at the Flora-Bama. For more info, see September 3 listing.

Saturday, September 16

Tuesday, September 19

Project Greenshores & Bartram Park Cleanup 9-10 a.m. Wayside Park West. Come join Ocean Hour’s clean up at Project Greenshores, also know as Wayside Park West, the third Saturday of every month. Project Greenshores is at the Three Mile Bridge on Bayfront Parkway, 745 Bayfront Parkway. Buckets, grabbers, gloves and trash bags will be supplied. Sign-in at 8:45. Please dress for the weather and bring water, bug spray and sunscreen as needed. The second location is Bartram Park located at 211 Bayfront Parkway, Pensacola (Behind the Fish House). E-mail: oceanhourfl@gmail. com; visit www.facebook.com/oceanhourfl or www. oceanhourfl.com. Or call (850) 450-1112. Taste of the Beach Festival Pensacola Beach’s annual foodie festival that celebrates the beach’s talented chefs and their unique coastal cuisine with cooking demonstrations, chef challenges, sample tastings and a free live concert. For details, see Spetember 15 listing. Palafox Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Martin Luther King, Jr. Plaza. For more info, see September 2 listing. Santa Rosa Farmers Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 4587 Woodbine Road, Pace (in front of The Pace Presbyterian Church). For more info, see September 2 listing. Jacksonian Guard Colors Ceremony Noon-12:30 p.m. The Jacksonian Guard is a Pensacola re-enactment group of Jacksonian era and Spanish soldiers, fifers, and drummers who perform a Colors Ceremony every third Saturday, in Plaza Ferdinand, on Palafox Street in downtown Pensacola. The ceremony commemorates Pensacola’s 195th Birthday & Florida as a U.S. Territory. For more info, call (850) 466-5220.

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FamilyCalendar

University of West Florida Home Football Game 6 p.m. kickoff. Community Maritime Park, 301 West Main Street, Pensacola. For details, see September 9 listing. Storytime: Princesses Wear Pants 11 a.m. Barnes and Noble, 1200 Airport Boulevard. In their debut children’s picture book, Savannah Guthrie and Allison Oppenheim team up for a savvy, imaginative story that celebrates fashion and girl power. Join the unflappable Princess Penelope Pineapple as she finds a clever way to get the job done while staying true to herself. Activities to follow. Call (850) 969-9554 or visit https://stores.barnesandnoble.com/store/2926 for more info.

Sunday, September 17

Art on the Boardwalk Noon-6 p.m. on Pensacola Beach. For details, see September 3 listing. Trivia Trek

10 a.m.-3 p.m. every Sunday, at the Gulf Breeze Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. For more info, see September 3 listing.

2017 Bands on the Beach 7-9 p.m. Located at the Gulfside Pavilion at Casino Beach. Today’s performer is Chloe Channell. For details, see September 5 listing. Gulf Breeze Farmers Market 4-8 p.m. every Tuesday evening, Gulf Breeze Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. For details, see September 5 listing. Preschool Story Time 10:30-11:30 a.m. Southwest Branch Library, 12248 Gulf Beach Highway, Pensacola. For details, see September 5 listing. Funky Flow Yoga 6-7 p.m. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. For details, see September 5 listing. Story Sprouts 10 a.m.-noon. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. For details, see September 5 listing.

Wednesday, September 20

Babywearing Pensacola 10 a.m.-noon. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. Free. Helping you wear your baby safely and comfortably is what we are here for! We are volunteers dedicated to spreading the baby wearing love and love celebrating all types! Call (850) 438-0402 ext. 17 or visit http://everman. org/.

Thursday, September 21

4th Annual Steak & Stake Dinner Featuring Jackie Joyner-Kersee 6-10 p.m. Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast South Walton Club, 427 Greenway Trail, Santa Rosa Beach. For tickets & sponsorship information, please e-mail cmayes@bgcec.com or call (850) 344-7763. Teen Art Studio at the Pensacola Museum of Art 4-5:30 p.m. Students will explore a broad range of media, artistic styles, and participate in guided gallery talks and critiques in the studio. For details, see September 7 listing. Veterans’ Meeting 4-6:30 p.m. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. These free monthly meetings focus on veteran services in our community. Call Evelyn Coleman at (850) 543-2258 or visit http:// everman.org/.

Friday, September 22

Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Mama Won’t Fly 7:30 p.m. Pensacola Little Theatre. Directed by Kathy Holsworth. Join Valerie Russenberger and her cast of friends on this hilarious road trip. Three generations travel from Alabama to California to get to a wedding. They meet family, friends, strangers and each other along the way. For more info and tickets, call (850) 432-2042 or visit www.pensacolalittletheatre.com. Preschool Art Time - Bead and Clay Sculptures 10-11 a.m. First and third Fridays for ages 3-5 years old. For details, see September 8 listing.

Stargazing at Fort Pickens at Battery Park 7:30 p.m. For details, see September 1 listing.

Saturday, September 23

Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Mama Won’t Fly 7:30 p.m. Pensacola Little Theatre. For details, see September 22 listing. Parents’ Night Out at Mojo Elite Gymnastics 6-10 p.m. 6890 W Fairfield Dr., Pensacola. For more info, see September 2 listing. Ghost Hunt at Pensacola Lighthouse Museum 8 p.m. For more info, visit www.pensacolalighthouse.org/ or call (850) 393-1561. Palafox Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Martin Luther King, Jr. Plaza. For more info, see September 2 listing. Santa Rosa Farmers Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 4587 Woodbine Road, Pace (in front of The Pace Presbyterian Church). For more info, see September 2 listing. University of West Florida Home Football Game 6 p.m. kickoff. Community Maritime Park, 301 West Main Street, Pensacola. For details, see September 9 listing. Saturday Workshops at the Pensacola Museum of Art Alternating Saturdays. Ages 5-9: 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; ages 10-13: 2-4 p.m. For details, see September 9 listing. Batman Day Promotion at Barnes and Noble 9 a.m. 1200 Airport Boulevard, Pensacola. Celebrate Batman Day with a Buy 2, Get the 3rd Free offer on all DC graphic novels, and receive one of three Batman Day 2017 Special Edition Comics: Batman, DC Super Hero Girls, or Harley Quinn, while supplies last. Call (850) 969-9554 or visit https://stores. barnesandnoble.com/store/2926 for more info. Storytime at Barnes and Noble: Big Words for Little Geniuses 11 a.m. 1200 Airport Boulevard, Pensacola. In this clever picture book by James and Sue Patterson, each letter of the alphabet provides an impressive new word for children to learn. Join us for this special Storytime, with activities to follow. Call (850) 969-9554 or visit https://stores.barnesandnoble.com/ store/2926 for more info.

Sunday, September 24

Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Mama Won’t Fly 3 p.m. Pensacola Little Theatre. For details, see September 22 listing. Art on the Boardwalk Noon-6 p.m. on Pensacola Beach. For details, see September 3 listing. Trivia Trek 10 a.m.-3 p.m. every Sunday, at the Gulf Breeze Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. For more info, see September 3 listing. Worship on the Water 9 and 11 a.m. weekly church services held in the tent at the Flora-Bama. For more info, see September 3 listing.

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FamilyCalendar Tuesday, September 26

2017 Bands on the Beach 7-9 p.m. Located at the Gulfside Pavilion at Casino Beach. Today’s performer is Westside Players. For details, see September 5 listing. Gulf Breeze Farmers Market 4-8 p.m. every Tuesday evening, Gulf Breeze Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. For details, see September 5 listing. Preschool Story Time 10:30-11:30 a.m. Southwest Branch Library, 12248 Gulf Beach Highway, Pensacola. For details, see September 5 listing. Funky Flow Yoga 6-7 p.m. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. For details, see September 5 listing. Story Sprouts 10 a.m.-noon. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. For details, see September 5 listing.

Thursday, September 28

Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Mama Won’t Fly 7:30 p.m. Pensacola Little Theatre. For details, see September 22 listing. Natural Healing/Cancer Study Group 6-8:30 p.m. Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. For details, see September 14 listing. Teen Art Studio at the Pensacola Museum of Art 4-5:30 p.m. Students will explore a broad range of media, artistic styles, and participate in guided gallery talks and critiques in the studio. For details, see September 7 listing. Heroes Among Us ~ Veteran Speakers Series 6 p.m. Veterans Memorial Park and Wall South, E Romana St. & Bayfront Parkway, Pensacola. Representing those who have distinguished themselves in combat from every generation and branch of the Armed Services. Tonight’s theme is USN Carrier Flight Operations Night with Guest of Honor Rear Admiral Don Quinn, USN, Operation Desert Storm, Kuwait & Iraq. Call (850) 434-6119 or visit http://pensacolamcleague.com/ for more info.

Friday, September 29

Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Mama Won’t Fly 7:30 p.m. Pensacola Little Theatre. For details, see September 22 listing. WSRE Public Square Speakers Series presents Margot Carlson Delogne & Anthony Istrico 7 p.m. Jean & Paul Amos Performance Studio at Pensacola State College, 1000 College Blvd. Presentation featuring Gold Star daughter Margot Delogne and film producer Anthony Istrico along with a screening of their film, The 2 Sides Project. Admission is free. Reservations are requested. Visit www.wsre.org/ speakers. Stargazing on Pensacola Beach 6 p.m. For more info, see September 1 listing. Pensacola Seafood Festival Seville Square Park, Pensacola. Hours are 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday; and 11 a.m.5 p.m. Sunday. Sample a variety of mouth watering seafood dishes and enjoy continuous entertainment in Fountain Park. Arts and crafts vendors will be

Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2017

displaying their unique wares, many items reflective of our area’s unique Gulf Coast lifestyle. A children’s area is filled with activities for all ages. The Fiesta Seafood Grille offers cooking demonstrations where you can watch area chefs prepare regional delicacies. Free admission. For more info, call (850) 433-6512 or visit www.fiestaoffiveflags.org/.

Saturday, September 30

Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Mama Won’t Fly 7:30 p.m. Pensacola Little Theatre. For details, see September 22 listing. Autism Pensacola’s Sixth Annual Steps for Autism Event 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Blue Wahoos stadium. Autism Pensacola will again highlight first responders who work tirelessly to keep our community safe. Honorary event chairs are Pensacola Police Sgt. Jimmy Donohoe and Escambia County Sheriff David Morgan. Sign up to participate in the walk as an individual or with a team by visiting autismpensacola.org. Stargazing on Pensacola Beach 6 p.m. For more info, see September 1 listing. Parents’ Night Out at Mojo Elite Gymnastics 6-10 p.m. 6890 W Fairfield Dr., Pensacola. For more info, see September 2 listing. Palafox Market 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Martin Luther King, Jr. Plaza. For more info, see September 2 listing. Santa Rosa Farmers Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 4587 Woodbine Road, Pace (in front of The Pace Presbyterian Church). For more info, see September 2 listing. Larry Caton Memorial Tennis Tournament 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Roger Scott Tennis Center, 2130 Summit Blvd., Pensacola. Proceeds benefit TENNIS4-EVERYONE. Sign up online or at the desk. Ladies Doubles, on all court surfaces. For more info, call (850) 912-4103 or visit www.rogerscotttennis.com/. 5210 Worldwide Day of Play 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Community Maritime Park. A day to get up, get out and get active! Families are challenged to shut off their computers, tablets and TVs, then head outdoors for some fun! Join us for a day of exciting activities, games, sports, contests and physical challenges for the entire family. For more info, call 850-436-5670 or visit 5210nwfl.com/dayofplay. J.A.K.E.S. (Juniors Acquiring Knowledge of Ethics and Sportsmanship) 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Community Maritime Park. Enjoy a fun-filled day of archery, taxidermy displays, plus hunting and fishing information, and skills practice. Firearm safety, and BB gun shooting range. Free event. For more info, find us on Facebook. Santa Rosa County’s Annual Baby Shower 10 a.m.-noon. Santa Rosa County Auditorium. Free admission. Door prizes, refreshments, children’s activities, family & health education (parenting, pregnancy & childbirth, breastfeeding, etc.), community agencies & exhibits, safety and more. Sponsored by Healthy Start Coalition of Santa Rosa County. For more info, call (850) 626-6751 or visit www.healthystartsantarosa.org.

Pensacola Seafood Festival Seville Square Park, Pensacola. Hours are 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday; and 11 a.m.5 p.m. Sunday. For details, see September 29 listing. Pensacola Seafood Festival Don McCloskey 5K Walk/Run 7:30 a.m. registration. This Pensacola Runners Association event is a flat, fast, spectator-friendly course starting at Seville Quarter, running down Bayfront Pkwy and through Maritime Park, Admiral Mason Park and Historic Downtown Pensacola before a fast finish back in front of Seville Quarter. Visit www. pensacolarunners.com for more information. Saenger Theatre Presents Jeanne Robertson 7:30 p.m. Saenger Theatre. Robertson is the embodiment of the classic, sophisticated Southern woman who brings delightful charm and loads of laughter to each performance. Jeanne Robertson’s comedy is sharp and witty, and always leaves a lasting impression. For more info, visit www.pensacolasaenger.com/ or call (850) 595-3880. Storytime at Barnes and Noble: Runny Babbit Returns 11 a.m. 1200 Airport Boulevard, Pensacola. Runny Babbit Returns, a collection of 41 never-beforepublished poems and drawings by Shel Silverstein, features Runny and other woodland characters who speak a language all their own. Join us for Storytime, with activities to follow. Call (850) 969-9554 or visit https://stores.barnesandnoble.com/store/2926 for more info.

Sunday, October 1

Tuesday, October 3

2017 Bands on the Beach 7-9 p.m. Located at the Gulfside Pavilion at Casino Beach. Today’s performer is Holly Shelton. For details, see September 5 listing. Gulf Breeze Farmers Market 4-8 p.m. every Tuesday evening, Gulf Breeze Community Center, 800 Shoreline Drive. For details, see September 5 listing.

Wednesday, October 4

9th Annual Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival 735 Pensacola Beach Blvd. 15 stages; 90+ songwriters; 200 performances within a mile radius. Family friendly and encouraged. For more info, call (850) 341-0889 or visit http://pensacolabeachsongwritersfestival.com/.

www.greaterpensacolaparents.com

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FamilyCalendar Thursday, October 5

9th Annual Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival 735 Pensacola Beach Blvd. 15 stages; 90+ songwriters; 200 performances within a mile radius. For details, see October 4 listing. Saenger Theatre Presents Craig Morgan 7:30 p.m. Saenger Theatre. A multi-faceted entertainer, Craig Morgan has made a name as a country music icon, TV host, celebrated outdoorsman and patriotic Army veteran. One of country music’s bestloved artists, Morgan thrills massive crowds with signature hits, including “Bonfire,” “Almost Home,” “Redneck Yacht Club,” “International Harvester,” “This Ole Boy,” “Wake Up Loving You” and the six week #1, “That’s What I Love About Sunday.”  For more info, visit www.pensacolasaenger.com/ or call (850) 595-3880. Teen Art Studio at the Pensacola Museum of Art 4-5:30 p.m. Students will explore a broad range of media, artistic styles, and participate in guided gallery talks and critiques in the studio. For details, see September 7 listing.

Friday, October 6

Mayor’s Cup Golf Classic 8 a.m.- 1 p.m. Osceola Golf Course, 300 Tonawanda Dr., Pensacola. Join us for this benefit tournament for the First Tee of Northwest Florida. 9th Annual Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival 735 Pensacola Beach Blvd. 15 stages; 90+ songwriters; 200 performances within a mile radius. For details, see October 4 listing. Preschool Art Time - Mixed Media Art 10-11 a.m. First and third Fridays for ages 3-5 years old. For details, see September 8 listing.

Saturday, October 7

Parents’ Night Out at Mojo Elite Gymnastics 6-10 p.m. 6890 W Fairfield Dr., Pensacola. For more info, see September 2 listing. 9th Annual Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival 735 Pensacola Beach Blvd. 15 stages; 90+ songwriters; 200 performances within a mile radius. For details, see October 4 listing. 2017 Pensacola Mud Run 7:30 a.m. St. Matthews Baptist Church, 3047 County Hwy 95A, Pensacola. Be a part of the MUDDY MADNESS! Kids’ activities, music, food… it’s an event you won’t want to miss. 5 miles, 20+ obstacles. For more info, visit http://werunwild.com/events/event/ pensacola-mud-run/ or call (850) 435-9222. Medical Mission -- at Home 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Pensacola High School, 500 West Maxwell St. Free admission. Medical Mission at Home is designed to deliver healthcare, social and support services to those who might not otherwise have access to these services and in locations where individuals are physically located like places of worship, schools, community centers, homeless shelters and food pantries. All services are FREE and NO insurance is needed. We will provide services on a FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVED basis until the end of the mission day. For more info, call (850) 416-6435 or visit www.medicalmissionathome.org/. Pensacola Walk to End Alzheimer’s 8 a.m. Bayview Park, 223 W. Gregory Street, Pensacola. Your fundraising dollars fuel our mission, and your participation in the event helps to change the

level of Alzheimer’s awareness in your community. For more info, call (850) 462-5410 or visit http://act. alz.org/site/TR?fr_id=10256&pg=entry. Santa Rosa Island Triathlon 7 a.m. Casino Beach, Pensacola. A soldout field of 1250 athletes is expected to compete in this nationally-renowned sprint triathlon event. The race distances are a 600 yard swim, an 18 mile bike and a 3.1 mile run. For more info, call (850) 932-2257 or visit www.santarosaislandtriathlon.com/. Pensacola Symphony Orchestra Presents Opening Night! 7:30 p.m. Saenger Theatre. Start the season with a high-powered evening of favorites! This concert features Strauss’ Suite from Der Rosenkavalier and the virtuosity of guest Santiago Rodriguez performing Saint-Saens’ dazzling Piano Concerto No. 5, “The Egyptian.” For more info, visit www.pensacolasaenger.com/ or call (850) 595-3880. Saturday Workshops at the Pensacola Museum of Art Alternating Saturdays. Ages 5-9: 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; ages 10-13: 2-4 p.m. For details, see September 9 listing.

Sunday, October 8

American Girl Club at Barnes and Noble 2 p.m. 1200 Airport Boulevard, Pensacola. For details, see September 10 listing. 9th Annual Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival For details, see October 4 listing.

Monday, October 9

Fishing and Archery Day Camp 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. $20 city residents, $25 nonresidents. Limited to the first 25 kids to register. For more info, call (850) 436-5678 or e-mail tland@ cityofpensacola.com.

Classes Community Education

Babysitter Class This class is open to youth from ages 11-15 for $30 (lunch is not provided). All participants receive an American Heart Association Family & Friends CPR Card, plus a Sacred Heart Hospital Babysitting Certificate. Classes are held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 5051 Carpenter’s Creek Drive in Pensacola at our Population Health Building. Pre-registration is required. Call (850) 416-7262. Course provided by Sacred Heart Education. Mojo Elite Gymnastics Parent/Toddler Classes 6890 W Fairfield Dr., Pensacola. Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday morning at 9 a.m. we have a parent/toddler class for only $5. The first visit is free. Children walking to age 3 are welcome. This is a great way for toddlers to explore in a safe environment and meet new friends! Call (850) 733-3547 or e-mail info@mojogymnastics.com.

Diabetes

Sacred Heart’s Diabetes Education Program offers individual and group instruction to help patients gain knowledge to control their disease, avoid com-

plications and teach or enhance skills for a healthier life. Our Certified Diabetes Educators (CDEs) include registered nurses and registered dietitians. For more information or to register for a class, please call (850) 416-7261. Classes include: •Continuous Glucose Monitor Application and Training Professional and personal •Diabetes and Pregnancy offered weekly for women with Type 2 diabetes or gestational diabetes. Individual counseling is also offered for pregnant women with Type 1 diabetes. Please complete our Patient Questionnaire form and bring it with you to your appointment or e-mail to Diabetes-scheduling@ shhpens.org. •Insulin Pump Training Comprehensive training and Carbohydrate counting •Insulin Training Skills training on equipment use, an understanding of insulins and Hypoglycemia •Living Well with Diabetes course for adults with diabetes and their family members. •Pre-Pump Training Discussion of benefits of pump and insulin pump limitations.

Prenatal & Childbirth

Baptist Women’s Center offers you choices to tailor your experience from early pregnancy to months following your baby’s birth. Our experienced team of nurses and educators are specially trained to make your birthing experience one of a kind. To register or for more info about our classes, call (850) 434-4567 or visit www.ebaptisthealthcare.org/birth. Baby Care Basics – Two-class series walks you through what to expect in the hospital and at home. A key milestones guide will be given to monitor baby’s growth and needs and how to meet them. $20 per couple. Baptist Birth Experience – Overview of the Baptist Women’s Center, tour and epidural video. FREE. Baptist Hospital, Prenatal Classroom, 3rd Floor. Usually held first Saturdays of most months, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Beginning Breastfeeding – Two-class series teaches how breastfeeding works, the best way to start, and what choices will result in a rewarding breastfeeding experience. $20 per couple. Prepared Childbirth – This class prepares you and your partner for the labor and delivery journey by understanding the process and offering coping skills. $90 per couple. All-day or four-class series available. Sibling Class (Ages 3 to 8) – This class helps you prepare your children for the arrival of the new member of the family! $10 per child per class. Baptist Hospital, Prenatal Classroom, 3rd Floor. Tours of Baptist Hospital, 3rd Floor, Labor and Delivery Unit Please call (850) 434-4567 to reserve your tour time. Tours are available Mondays and Fridays, 5:30 p.m. Monthly Series Package – $125 per couple and includes Prepared Childbirth, a four-class series or one all-day class, two Breastfeeding classes and two Baby Care Basics classes.

Sacred Heart Hospital offers a variety of prenatal education classes designed to help parents-to-be prepare for their special day and for the days that follow back home with the new baby. Registration is required for all classes and is offered online. For any questions, please call (850) 416-6378 (NEST) or visit www.sacredheart.org/SHHP/Childbirth/Main/Guidance/. Breastfeeding This two-hour class, taught by one of Sacred Heart Hospital’s lactation consultants, teaches techniques for breastfeeding success and addresses common concerns to make your experience as smooth as possible. Cost is $20 per couple. Offered monthly on Monday evenings and Saturday mornings. Infant/Child CPR Course Class is open to new parents, family members and friends who will be caring for a baby or young child. www.facebook.com/greaterpensacolaparents

FamilyCalendar Classes are held every Tuesday from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Fee is $22 per person and pre-registration is required. To register, please call the Sacred Heart Education Department at (850) 416-7264. This class is an orientation to CPR and is not a certifying or credentialing course. “My Family’s Growing” Sibling Class Class prepares soon-to-be siblings (ages 3 through 10) for the arrival of a new baby in their family. Our sibling class includes a complete tour of the Maternity & Women’s Center of Sacred Heart Hospital. Cost is $10 per child. Newborn Parenting This class strives to prepare parents in caring for their new bundle of joy, from birth through the first few weeks at home. Newborn Parenting is taught by experienced nurses from Sacred Heart Hospital’s mother-baby unit, and a local pediatrician will be available to answer questions during a portion of the class. Cost is $20 per couple. Prepared Childbirth Classes Designed to help prepare you and your partner for the birthing process – including tips to make you more comfortable during labor – Prepared Childbirth Classes are taught by experienced obstetrics nurses and include a tour of the Maternity and Women’s Center. Cost is $50 per couple. This course is offered in two different formats to meet your scheduling and educational needs: •As a four-week series, especially designed for firsttime moms. •As a one-day class, ideal for moms who have had children before and are looking for a refresher course in the delivery experience. To see a list of upcoming dates, visit www.sacredheart.org/SHHP/Childbirth/Main/Guidance/. Tours Tours of Sacred Heart Hospital’s Maternity & Women’s Center will give soon-to-be moms an idea of what to expect during your stay at the hospital, including where to go, where to park and what to bring when you arrive for the delivery of your baby. Partners are welcome and encouraged to attend.

West Florida Hospital understands that giving

birth is a family affair, and we encourage the involvement of family and friends in the birth process. For more information about The Family Birthplace or childbirth classes at West Florida Hospital, call (850) 494-4368. Breastfeeding Classes For pre-delivery parents. Topics include: How breastfeeding works (How the Breast Makes Milk), Latch & Positioning, When to Feed Your Baby, How to Know Baby is Getting Enough Milk, Breast Care, Pumping, Storing and Bottle-Feeding with Breastmilk. This is a Power Point, Videos, and Question/Answer Class. Mom, Dad, and caregivers are welcome. For more info, call (850) 494-4368 or visit http://westfloridahospital.com/ service/childbirth-preparation. Understanding Birth - Childbirth Preparedness Class - 4-Week Series Join us for a PowerPoint presentation with videos on the subject of: understanding pregnancy, understanding labor, a birth story, understanding comfort techniques/options for pain control, understanding medical procedures, understanding cesarean birth, understanding newborns, understanding postpartum, and tour of the labor unit/suite. This 4-week course goes into a little more detail than the intensive 4-hr course. For more info, call (850) 494-4368 or visit http://westfloridahospital.com/service/childbirth-preparation. Understanding Birth - Childbirth Preparedness Class - Express Condensed version of our 4-week Childbirth Preparation class into one day, has many great topics, features and video clips including: understanding pregnancy, labor, medical procedures and cesarean birth. Very interactive and we finish with a tour of the Family Birthplace. Please call (850) 494-4368 for any additional questions.

Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2017

Support Groups

information, and education, and to promote a better understanding of breastfeeding as an important element in the healthy development of the baby and mother. Free. Next meeting will be held September 7, from 10 a.m.noon.For more info, call (850) 433-5353 ext. 10 or visit http:// everman.org/event/ la-leche-league-9/.

Cancer

Gulf Coast Wings of Hope, Inc. Support Group Supporting families of children with blood disorders and cancer. Anyone with a friend or family member who has been stricken with a form of childhood cancer or blood disorder is welcome. All meetings will be held on the 3rd Tuesday of the month from 6:308:00 p.m. in Conference Room A of the Women’s and Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart. More details can be found at www.wingsofhopeinc.org. Patient and Family Cancer Support Group Pensacola Meets 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, from 4-5:30 p.m. Baptist Towers, Tower 3, Suite 233, 1717 North E St., Avery Street Entrance. For more info, call (850) 469-7372. Prostate Cancer Support Group Meets 2nd Thursdays, from 5-6:30 p.m. Baptist Towers, Tower 3, Suite 233, 1717 North E St., Avery Street Entrance. For more info, call (850) 469-7372. Prostate Cancer Self Help Group This group sponsored by the American Cancer Society is designed to educate and support men facing prostate cancer. Meets the first Saturday of the month at Sacred Heart Hospital, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Call (850) 438-4491. Sacred Heart Cancer Center Sacred Heart provides emotional support and education for cancer patients and their families through a variety of support groups. For more info, visit the Cancer Center Support Groups website or call (850) 416-2679.

Grief Support

GriefShare The Sacred Heart Palliative Care department provides a free, 13-week Grief Support Group for adults who have lost a loved one. The meetings are in the Palliative Care department, located in Suite 201 of the Bayou Tower on Sacred Heart’s Pensacola campus. The public may use the free valet parking at the hospital’s Bayou Tower entrance, which faces Bayou Blvd. For class dates and times and for registration information, call Kerri Riggs, LCSW, at (850) 416-7705. Grief Support Group for Adults Sacred Heart Hospital provides this free group for adults who have lost a loved one. For future classes and registration information please call (850) 416-7705. Grief Support at Baptist Health Care Next group meets 1:30 to 3 p.m. on Tuesdays, Sept. 26 through Oct. 31. For more info, call (850) 469-7197.

Parent Support

Baptist Mommy & Me Play Group Baptist Hospital, Prenatal Classroom, 3rd Floor. Free support group for moms with babies up to six months old. Next meetings are Thursdays, September 14 & 28 from 10 a.m. to noon. For more info, call (850) 434-4567. La Leche League Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. Our mission is to help mothers breastfeed through mother-to-mother support, encouragement,

LEAPS New Mom Support Group Ever’man Educational Center, 327 W. Garden Street, Pensacola. LEAPS (Love, Encouragement, and Postpartum Support) is a self-care support group focused on helping moms connect and engage in activities that promote balance, stress management, and overall wellness. Guest speakers and self-care activities will be provided and are free of cost. Precrawling babies welcome. Free. Next meetings will be held September 6, from 10-11:30 a.m., and September 16, from 9:30 a.m.-noon. For more info, call (850) 433-5353 ext. 10 or visit http://everman.org/event/leaps-new-mom-support-group-3/. Mommy & Me Support Group The group meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon in Classroom C/D of Sacred Heart Hospital, located at 5151 N. Ninth Ave. in Pensacola. This free support group provides mothers with an opportunity to share experiences, gain support and develop friendships. A lactation consultant from the Sacred Heart Maternity & Women’s Center will be present to answer questions and offer advice. Baby weight checks are offered at each meeting. Space is limited, and pre-registration is required for each class session. For more info about this class or your parenting experience, please call The Nesting Place Women’s Boutique at 850416-6378 (NEST) or visit www.sacred-heart.org/ childbirth. Pensacola Parents of Multiples Meets the second Thursday of every other month at Sacred Heart Women’s and Children’s Hospital Meeting Room C/D down the hallway next to the cafeteria. Next meetings will be held from 7-8:30 p.m. on October 12. We normally have a family holiday dinner in December. Parking is available in the 9th Avenue Parking garage and in the lot in front of The Children’s Hospital. If you are expecting or already blessed with multiples, you are encouraged to get free, helpful information. We offer a support network, social activities for children and parents, library and more. For more info, visit pensacolamultiples.com or call (850) 449-4208.

Special Needs

Children With Attention Deficit Disorders (CHADD) Support Group For families of children with attention deficit disorders. To find a local group, please visit www. chadd.org/.

Please send your calendar events to editor@greaterpensacolaparents.com. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of this information. However, you should always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.

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Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Most parents and teachers will agree that art is a powerful element in every child’s learning toolbox. It’s the one thing that every kid can produce on an equal footing because art is an individual expression – there’s no way to get it wrong. Art teaches problem solving and encourages open-ended thinking. It focuses attention and cultivates hand-eye coordination. Children who are encouraged to explore art are more receptive to risk-taking, more inclined to explore diverse solutions and more open to learn from their mistakes. The following items are recommended resources to foster early artistic exploration and to empower every child’s inner artist along the way.

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Pottery Cool Studio

Needle Felting Kit

From the variety of pottery wheel options for kids, the Pottery Cool Studio turns the competition on its head with an upside down design that lets gravity assist kids’ shaping of clay masterpieces. Complete with every thing needed to launch the creative process, from sculpting tools and paintbrushes to paint and two pounds of clay, this kit includes easy instructions for a variety of forms. Simply place a disc of clay on the inverted spinning base, and your child’s project will begin to take shape. Young potters can put their own artistic spin on pencil holders, smart phone speakers, frames and more with all the tools at their fingertips. Once kids get the hang of manipulating clay in the round, there are additional project kits for pottery masters who’d like to expand their 3D art portfolio.

Needle felting is enjoying new popularity among artists and Artterro has come to the fore with the best collection of materials and tools to introduce this sensational craft craze to the younger set. Using a sturdy barbed needle, wool fibers are compacted by repeatedly jabbing the needle into the fibers to form three-dimensional felt figures as well as colorful soft canvas pieces. In addition to four wool felt squares, thirteen colors of roving wool, needles and instruction book, this kit includes a soy-based foam pad to sit below the working needle (because, in truth, needle felting is all about stabbing wool). Surprisingly versatile and open to a broad range of artistic expression, the Artterro Needle Felting Kit is an ideal introduction to this tactile and wildly satisfying craft form.

Kreatio Jumbo Size Oil Pastels

Stencil Kit for Young Artists

While crayons are the most common tools for the youngest members of the art community, the amount of pressure required to make heavier marks with crayons can be frustrating for small hands. Oil pastels are a softer medium, allowing kids to work more on their artistic vision and less on building their upper arm strength. Jumbo-sized so small hands can grasp them easily, the Kreatio pastels create a bolder color than standard wax crayons and offer more versatility through blending. The plastic carrying case keeps twentyfour brilliant colors organized and portable for the artist on the move. Take the pressure out of coloring and consider the lighter touch of oil pastels for the littlest Rembrandt.

For the kids who want to draw, but can benefit from a jump start on the creative process, stencils are the easiest way to cultivate a sense of form and space as they build their drawing skills. With twelve sharpened colored pencils, twelve large stencils, a sharpener and a carrying case, guided art is ready to happen instantly. The Boofo stencils (featuring animals, plants, cars, shapes and more) are sturdy and washable ensuring a durable resource for training young hands as they hone their drawing chops. More than just a guide for pencil tips, the Boofo stencil kit is the perfect resource to build a child’s confidence and empower their artistic drive toward independent drawing mastery.

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Gerry Paige Smith is a syndicated columnist recommending the best products for kids and their families. Discover more at www.PageBookMedia.com

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The Dark Tower

The Nut Job 2:

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C+ Violence: D+ Sexual Content: AProfanity: BAlcohol / Drug Use: AThe MPAA has rated The Dark Tower PG-13 for thematic material including sequences of gun violence and action. Jake Chambers (Tom Taylor) is the classic “Chosen One” in The Dark Tower, but parents don’t assume a teen protagonist equals a movie suitable for all your kids. First clue: It’s based on a Stephen King novel... an author known for thriller and horror stories, not fun family romps. This sci-fi has a kill rate that’s right up there with R-raters. It just doesn’t have as much blood or explicit details. Our young hero has this tough task. His serial nightmares feature a messed-up sorcerer, known as the Man in Black (Matthew McConaughey), who is strapping kids to a funky chair and sucking their mental powers to send energy impulses toward a dark tower with the goal of eventually knocking it down. (I’m guessing they were out of TNT at the local dynamite shop...) Fighting back is a guy known as The Gunslinger (Idris Elba), a cool dude whose pistol loading techniques even left me wanting to play with guns. To be fair, The Dark Tower intrigued me enough to want to know what will happen next. Another plus is this bid-to-save-all-life-from-extermination is a serious tale and leaves no time for sexual soirées. Other than some references to deity and a couple of scatological curses, there’s little else for parental concern (except for those many bullets). I’m sensing there may be a positive moral message coming in the next episode, but will it also offer some glue to hold the plot together? If not, this tower could fall without the help of a madman.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: C+ Violence: BSexual Content: B+ Profanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: AThe MPAA has rated The Nut Job 2: Nutty by Nature PG for action and some rude humor. The Nut Job 2: Nutty by Nature is a more-than-nutty sequel that foregoes many of the usual concerns about sex and profanity, but does provide a generous helping of slapstick animated violence. It also presents a mixed assortment of some of the most ingrained stereotypes promoted by media, wrapped up in a painfully ridiculous package and sent gift-wrapped to a young unsuspecting audience. This little guy vs big guy story includes all the usual elements you might expect. The critters do their best to chew through electrical cables (with much animated shock value) and jam up the equipment and amusement rides. They engage in silly antics to break jail and sabotage the enemy. They also bridge the gap between the opposing forces with two canines -- Heather’s servile French bulldog Frankie and Precious, a pug that was owned by two crooks in the first Nut Job movie and has since joined forces with the park animals. At first glance this film’s biggest crime happened when you paid to see it. Yet even if families hold out against the enticing advertising and their kids’ pleas until the home video release, parents should remember the power of repeated messages. The aforementioned stereotypes, and Andie’s role as a female who is helpless to do anything without Surly’s approval, may be reason enough to say, “nuts to this” and find something better to watch.

Logan Lucky

The Glass Castle

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C Violence: C+ Sexual Content: B+ Profanity: CAlcohol / Drug Use: CThe MPAA has rated Logan Lucky PG-13 for language and some crude comments. Instead of suave and sophisticated George Clooney heading up the large cast of thieves, this time we have Channing Tatum playing war vet Jimmy Logan. Left with a leg injury from service in Iraq, Jimmy is fired from his earth moving job at the Charlotte Motor Speedway in the opening minutes of the film after an HR minion noticed he walks with a limp. The cruel and heartless termination is the perfect setup for us to root for this blue-collar boy when he hatches an idea: return to his former workplace and steal a truckload of cash from a central depository buried under the raceway. Next, we need a team. Jimmy’s brother Clyde (Adam Driver) is an obvious first choice, and their sister Mellie (Riley Keough) is game to help too. Recognizing they need someone who has “professional” experience, the siblings seek out an old buddy in their small Virginia community who happens to be in prison. Joe Bang (Daniel Craig) is an explosive safecracker and even though he says he’s not interested, Jimmy quickly convinces him. This PG-13 film has numerous profanities yet, in other areas doesn’t push the limits of its rating. But parental concerns in media aren’t always about sex and violence. Logan Lucky is a fun film to view and offers an interesting portrait of life in the south without exploiting harmful stereotypes too much. Yet the stylized, creative camera work and precise editing are a thin veneer covering a message that lying, cheating and stealing are the basis of good luck.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B+ Violence: C Sexual Content: C+ Profanity: C Alcohol / Drug Use: CThe MPAA has rated The Glass Castle PG-13 for mature thematic content involving family dysfunction, and for some language and smoking. Complicated, engaging, inspiring and possibly disturbing, The Glass Castle, with its US PG-13 rating, defines the need for “parental guidance”. Not likely to be on the top of your teen’s gotta-see list anyway, this story is based on the real-life memoir of Jeannette Walls. Her description of growing up as the daughter a dysfunctional father and mother may catch some audience members by surprise, especially if abusive behavior lurks their life history. Scenes of neglect, verbal and physical domestic abuse, a lack of providing protection or the necessities of life, and a moment of sexual abuse punctuate the memories depicted in this story of the Walls family. Stellar performances from this large cast add to this compelling drama. Woody Harrelson portrays with precision a drunk who swings between poetically grand, and cruelly petty. Naomi Watts vacillates between wanting to get as far away from this madman as she can and falling comfortably back into his controlling arms. And the young actors playing the children genuinely portray the anguish of being caught in the middle. What sets The Glass Castle apart from legions of other films about family dysfunction are the lessons and examples it offers.

Greater Pensacola Parents I September 2017

Nutty by Nature

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Celebrate Women’s Health

Photo Credit: Boston Herald

In 1967, race officials tried forcibly to remove Kathrine Switzer from the then all-male Boston Marathon. Switzer went on to finish the race, becoming the first female to enter and complete the Boston Marathon. For more of Switzer’s story, visit http://www.espn.com/video/clip?id=19007438

Women’s Night Out The Legacy of 261 Featuring Kathrine Switzer

Thursday, October 12, 2017 • 5:30 pm Pensacola Saenger Theatre Valuable Door Prizes Registration is required for this free seminar.

RSVP: (850) 494-3212

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Kathrine Switzer First female to run the Boston Marathon Bib Number 261 retired at the 2017 Boston Marathon Instrumental in including Women’s Marathon in 1984 Olympics