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May2020 4

Volume 5 Number 3

Columns 4

Therapeutic Parenting Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

20 Parenting, Media &

Therapeutic Parenting Helping your child navigate difficult emotions during chaotic times.

Common Sense Media Adjusting rules on screen time during Coronavirus.

Everything in Between Common Sense Media

Dave Says

Dave Ramsey

Get This! Gerry Paige Smith

Finish the School Year Virtually

Ten ways to help your kids finish this unique school year strong.

Life Skills for High School Graduates

What they should know before heading to college.

On The Cover Cole Paschall (18), son of Scott and Laura Paschall and brother to Hayes, Ella and Bryce. Cole enjoys being outdoors, hunting, fishing, working out and going off road. Cole loves basketball and has played basketball for the last four years for the Gulf Breeze Dolphins. After graduating, Cole plans to go into law enforcement. He plans to continue his education and become a Florida Wildlife Conservation officer.

A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

Departments 6

Bits and Pieces 8

School Bits 32

Movie Reviews

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FromThePublisher

Greater Pensacola Greater Pensacola’s Foremost Parenting Source

I don’t know if the shock of everything that has happened over the last couple of months will ever fully go away, but like most of you, I am settling into it a little more. Brad and I already worked from home, so that was no change. However, working from home with all three girls home with us was a different story. Summers, we can handle. Activities, friends... lots of things to keep the girls active and occupied. This is different. Unlike summer, the girls still have school responsibilities and no social or extra-curricular activities. But like all parents, I had a plan. The experts say, stick to a schedule. Up and ready for breakfast by 8 am and begin schoolwork by 9 am. Finished by lunch. Perfect! But what sounds good on paper is not always reality, and certainly not how it all went down at my house. Many mornings I get up, get dressed (I am a firm believer in getting dressed and ready every morning) then get distracted with emails or phone calls, and the next thing I know the schedule is toast. Some days it makes me feel like a huge mom fail. But as all of this draws out longer and the stress and cabin fever grows, the schedule was honestly one of the things I just had to let go of, at least for now. After all, the girls have proven to be very responsible with their work, even without the schedule. So, at least for today, we are going with what works for us. We are all adjusting differently and we need to be mindful of our physical AND our mental health. If you have days that just don’t work like you want, it’s okay. Don’t be too hard on yourself. Find what works for you and your family. If you need some ideas for getting in a groove with academics, flip to page 22 where you will find Finish the School Year Virtually: 10 Ways to Help Your Child Stay Strong, by Janeen Lewis. She has some excellent advice for staying on track. Like many of you, we have found some extra time in our schedules, which has afforded us the ability to do more cooking. If you know me well, you know that cooking is definitely not one of my strengths. But, with more time and having the girls around, it has been a lot more fun! I think it is a great skill for them to be practicing at this age. Brad has joined in the fun and has been teaching the girls some house maintenance and repair skills. Before you know it, they will be on their own and glad they had these lessons. In fact, we have decided to start working on the list Kimberley Spivey compiled in her article, Life Skills Every High School Graduate Needs, on page 26. Check it out, especially if you have graduating seniors. They will thank you for it...at least one day. Speaking of graduates, it has been heartbreaking to see what these young people and their families are going through. They are missing their prom, graduation parties, and moments of savoring the last few carefree weeks between exams and graduation. So this month we want to give a big shout-out to the Class of 2020 and their families, and help celebrate their achievements as they move into the next chapter of their lives. This month (and in June) we have a Senior Spotlight section to celebrate some of these special graduates. Check it out beginning on page 28. To the grads, CONGRATULATIONS and warmest wishes as you move on to your next great adventure! To everyone, stay safe, be well, and savor the sweet moments.

Lynn

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@greaterpensacolaparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson editor@greaterpensacolaparents.com Associate Editor Alison Rouse Contributing Writers Janeen Lewis Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP Dave Ramsey Gerry Paige Smith Kimberley Carter Spivey Cover Photography Naomi McIntosh Photography Facebook.com/NaomiMcIntoshPhotography @naomimcintoshphotography

President Jason Watson Advertising Sales Lynn Knighton ads@greaterpensacolaparents.com (850) 426-6222 Account Manager Eleanor Williams Ad Design Tim Welch

Visit us at www.greaterpensacolaparents.com

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Greater Pensacola Parents I May 2020

Greater Pensacola Parents Magazine is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant role in our community. Greater Pensacola Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.

Greater Pensacola Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: PO Box 6241 Pensacola, FL 32503. The phone number for voice and fax is (850) 426-6222. Greater Pensacola Parents is copyrighted 2020 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Greater Pensacola Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

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Congratulations

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East Hill Christian School Class of 2020!

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Lauren Bondurant

Madeline Bryan

David Coltrane

Evan Dennis

Jacob Dickson

Noah Dickson

Alexis Gorelikow

Jeremy Harris

Corinna Hrabar

Zachary Lovell

Taylar McCart

Brenda McKinney

Kobe Morrison

Jackson Reyes

Elisha Smith

Anna Thomas

Tabitha Wortendyke

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TherapeuticParenting by Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

Help Kids Navigate Emotions in Chaotic Times Any quick glance at social media in recent weeks will provide you with all manner of advice on how to best navigate this historic time of uncertainty – especially as it relates to parenting. Make a schedule for your kids, they need the structure. Don’t make a schedule for your kids, they need a sense of peace and calm and to be allowed to go at their pace. Enforce standard rules and discipline just like always – it communicates a sense of normality. Give grace, be present with your kids – forgo any non-essential rules in the home and just be with your kids. I think a lot of us in the parenting trenches tend to develop a strategy that lies somewhere in the middle of the road. And that’s good. We are all trying to find our footing and walk that line of grace + guidance. Of rules + respect. Of love + leadership. And that is noble and right and worthy of your time because despite the best efforts of all of the advice-givers out there – there is no one size fits all answer to figuring this out. Every family is different. Every home is different. Every kid within that family within that home

Greater Pensacola Parents I May 2020

is different. So instead of getting caught up in adopting one particular model that promises success – lean in to discerning and understanding and being plugged into your particular child’s cues, behaviors and responses. But, in doing so, remember a few key principles 1. Remember that sad often looks like mad. 2. Remember that fear often looks like mad. 3. Remember that anxious often looks like mad. Remember that your child likely does not have the capacity and maturity to come to you calmly and say, “Mother, I am feeling a bit wobbly these days. Everything is different. I don’t really understand. I am so worried and afraid. May we please discuss all of my emotions and concerns over dinner this evening so that you can bring clarity to the situation and I can then regulate my emotions?” As incredible as that would be – it is obviously wholly unrealistic. So remember - kids don’t have words, they have behaviors. When presented with a 5-year-old who is constantly throw-

ing tantrums and is just completely upside down – instead of reflexively punishing that negative behavior - take a minute and see if you can use your parental super power of deduction and assess what might really be the cause of the meltdown and meet your child there. Give voice to their feelings – “I wonder if you are having such a hard time tonight because you are worried about daddy’s job.” Start to help them begin to make sense of their own emotions and help narrate that for them. By doing so, you are starting to help them correlate their behavior with their emotions. You are their anchor. You are their guidepost. You are the one who has the capacity and ability to make sense of the nonsense. So though you may not have all of the answers, you have great ability to bring your calming presence in the midst of the chaotic present. Sonia is a licensed social worker and holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work. Her clinical focus is on helping parents and professionals understand the role of the brain in behavior and how to adopt therapeutic parenting techniques to mitigate negative behaviors. She is the Director of Central Alabama for Lifeline Children’s Services and is a mother to 7 sons, 3 of which were internationally adopted and she is a foster parent.

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Pensacola Little Theatre Hopes to Reopen in May; Shows Go On

Art Activities at Home It is part of the Pensacola Museum of Art’s mission to continue connecting with their community in an interactive and educational manner during their closure. As a part of that, they are starting a series of daily art activities you and your family can do at home with accessible materials inspired by their classes and exhibitions. Visit www.pensacolamuseum.org for more information and feel free to share what you create, using #pmaartathome!

Current plans at PLT include auditions for Cinderella May 1115 at 6:30 p.m. Auditions for ensemble and leads other than Cinderella will be May 11-12; callbacks for this group will be May 13. Auditions for Cinderella will take place on May 14, with callbacks for this group on May 15. Show dates are July 24-August 9. For more info, call Kathy Holsworth, artistic director, at (850) 432-2042 ext. 102 or visit www.facebook.com/PensacolaLittleTheatre/. Winnie-the-Pooh, originally scheduled during March, was moved to May 16-24. All original ticketholders will be transferred to the date that best suits schedules in May. We are offering vouchers to those who cannot attend. At that time, we will revisit the Hundred Acre Wood. Please contact the box office for rescheduling assistance at boxoffice@pensacolalittletheatre.com. If there is another change from the CDC, we will let ticketholders know immediately. Thank you for your patience at this time! May 29-31, Pensacola Little Theatre Academy presents I Never Saw Another Butterfly, directed by Jay Bixler, with student director Sierra Cole. More than 15,000 Jewish children passed through Terezin, and only about 100 were still alive when Terezin was liberated at the end of the war. For the children, butterflies became a symbol of defiance and hope. Lastly, auditions will be held at 6:30 p.m. June 1 and 2 for The Girl With the Golden Locks. Directed by Jennifer Bunnell, this is theatre for young actors, performing for a young audience. Show dates will be July 11-19. For more info about any of these events, call (850) 432-2042 or visit www.pensacolalittletheatre.com. You may also find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PensacolaLittleTheatre/.

Blue Wahoos Drive-Through Concessions are a Hit with Fans

With the global coronavirus pandemic shuttering Pensacola restaurants and affecting dining options, the Blue Wahoos began a service with their concessions staff to bring a taste of ballpark into curbside delivery. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4:30 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, customers can call ahead or order when arriving at the park at the Blue Wahoos tailgate tent located in front of the HancockWhitney Club entrance on the third base side of the stadium. “We are really just trying to do our part, because there are so many people out there who have expressed having such difficulties going to a grocery story and doing this or that,” said Eric Kroll, the Blue Wahoos general manager for food and beverage. “People are asking around ‘who is open, who can do meals?’ So really we’re just trying to help families and people in the community and do our part with just being available for people who can’t cook or aren’t available to.” The stadium itself is not open, baseball everywhere is on hold, but the Blue Wahoos are trying to bring a flavorful sense of the famed ballpark into a drive-through setting. It’s also a way to provide some sense of normalcy. “Our number-one concern is keeping jobs in the community and having a way for local families to enjoy food and the ballpark area without being able to have baseball games,” said Blue Wahoos President Jonathan Griffith. “We feel this is a good thing to do at this time in keeping with our mission to improve the quality of life in the community. Our priority is to keep as many of our employees with jobs.” Customers can place an order at (850) 934-8444, ext. 451 ahead of arrival. Visit http://www.bluewahoos.com for the menu. Most food orders take 10 minutes or less. Options include a variety of hot dog and hamburger baskets, along with bacon-crusted shrimp tacos, a grilled chicken basket, a burrito dish, and a build-your-own pasta. Prices range from $8-$12 including a beverage and side item of fries. There is also a lunch kids menu for $3 apiece. “While we can’t offer baseball games, we can offer great food and a way for families and people to come to our ballpark and take a break,” Griffith said. “The area around our stadium is the best view in baseball and this is a way for people to come down, get some food and be at the park without a game going on.”

Historic Pensacola Supports Healthcare Workers Starting last week the lighting at T.T. Wentworth, Jr. Florida State Museum and Museum Plaza was made blue in support of our Healthcare workers. Cities across the United States are illuminating their stadiums and landmarks in blue in support of the health-care workers and first responders as they continue to combat the coronavirus. Greater Pensacola Parents I May 2020

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UWF Historic Trust Archives Asks Community to Submit COVID-19 Journals

Help future researchers by creating and sharing your COVID-19 journal. In the coming years researchers will be looking for information about how we coped with Covid 19 and the restrictions it placed on all of us. The UWF Historic Trust archive would love to collect your stories of this difficult time. How are you filling your time? How are you getting groceries? Are you supporting the local economy in some way, maybe ordering food from local restaurants, donating to local relief programs or giving food to animal shelters? Helping relatives or neighbors who need help securing food or other items? Cleaning house, making repairs, rearranging furniture? Getting out puzzles and jigsaw puzzles to play with the family? Spending your life in front of the computer playing games? Getting in touch with family and/or friends you haven’t contacted in some time? Has social distancing brought you closer or caused discord? There is no word count for this, send us several pages or several lines. Start now and continue with your story until you feel your life has returned to normal, or a “new normal.” Put it in a Word document or PDF and send it as an email attachment, in the body of an email, or a good, old-fashioned letter you mail to UWF Historic Trust Archives, PO Box 12866, Pensacola, FL 32591. If we all participate in this we can compile a comprehensive look at life during these troubled times. If you have any questions, email Jacki at jwilson2@uwf.edu.

Downtown Restaurants Offer Curbside Pick-Up Amid COVID-19 Concerns The Downtown Improvement Board (DIB) is partnering with downtown restaurants to implement a curbside pick-up service following the most recent guidance from Gov. Ron DeSantis regarding COVID-19 that orders all restaurants in Florida to cut down their crowd capacity. This service will be available at select restaurants throughout the downtown district. To place a curbside order, customers must: 1. Call ahead to place a restaurant order. 2. Be prepared to give your name, make/color of car and payment method. 3. Park nearby chosen restaurant and call again to confirm arrival. 4. Wait for a restaurant employee to bring your food to you! Note: Customers choosing the curbside pick-up service can park in the space for up to 25 minutes. For more info and and an updated list, visit https:// downtownpensacola.com/news/.

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Autauga County Schools St. Paul Celebrates Seuss

St. Paul Catholic School celebrated Dr. Seuss Day with special treats and lots of costumes! Our very own assistant principal, Sarah Fox, came dressed as Mrs. Fox in Socks!

Creative Learning Academy Students Visit Tallahassee, St. Augustine

The 5th grade class from Creative Learning Academy traveled to the state capital in early March. While in Tallahassee, the students not only toured the Capitol building, but also met with State Representative Amber Mariano. She was originally elected in 2016 while still a student at the University of Central Florida. Mariano was the youngest state representative ever elected, and she was reelected in 2018. Students continued on to St. Augustine, where they toured the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, St. Augustine Pirate and Treasure Museum, and Flager College. On their return trip to Pensacola, they hiked through the Florida Caverns State Park in Marianna.

NB Cook Drama Teacher Awarded Honor Medal Jean Odom, N. B. Cook’s drama teacher since the program’s inception, was the recipient of the Freedom Foundation at Valley Forge George Washington Honor Medal for using drama to teach patriotism and core values. Through multiple programs within and beyond the school’s drama department, Odom promotes patriotism, service above self, and valuing the ideals of freedom. She was presented with the award at a dinner at The Pensacola Yacht Club on February 19. Greater Pensacola Parents I May 2020

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Trinitas Transitions to Remote Learning

Although there have been a few bumps along the way, Trinitas Christian School has transitioned to a remote learning program that involves take-home packets for all of our students and a smattering of online instruction for students in the upper grades. We have been blessed to not have missed a regularly scheduled school day to this point. If on-site schooling doesnâ€™t resume in May as we hope, we are on track to finish the school year on schedule. Here are a few photographs of students and teachers working from home.

Montclair Partners with Legacy House Church to Provide Family Lunches

The week of March 30, Montclair Elementary partnered with Legacy House Church to provide free lunches to all students and adults who came to the park across the street from Montclair. The church prepared and distributed more than 200 sack lunches each day and the Montclair faculty and staff volunteered to help distribute them. As families were getting their lunches, we collected updated phone numbers from parents and students so we could better reach all parents during distance learning. We also attached a sticker to the lunch bags that gave our parents our Facebook address and instructions on how to join our remind group that was created specifically to communicate during the crisis.

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Autauga County Schools

St. Paul Celebrates Mardi Gras

St. Paul Catholic School enjoyed an exciting Mardi Gras parade in beautiful weather this year! Following school tradition, a king and queen were chosen from the kindergarten class. They rode on the back of the “float” -- a golf cart decorated by wonderful parent volunteers. The rest of the kindergarten class threw beads to the school with the help of 8th grade. Afterward, everyone enjoyed King cake! Let the good times roll!

Montessori Teachers Use Technology to Connect

Montessori School of Pensacola teachers enjoy spending time together via Zoom as they work on lesson plans.

Please email news and photos to schoolnews@greaterpensacolaparents.com!

Greater Pensacola Parents I May 2020

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Redeemer Lutheran Holds Annual Fundraiser

Arrrr! Redeemer Lutheran held its annual gala fundraiser. Dinner, an auction and pirates aplenty made it a night to remember.

Girls Launch Lunch Sack Program

NB Cook Student Receives Inaugural Performance Award

“Pack-a-Sack” was launched with the help of Gracie Coleman and her BFF Raegan Jones! The girls had a great time preparing lunches that would then be provided to the homeless. The girls prepared more than 20 sacks and wished they had packed more! Each sack included a handwritten inspirational message. The girls and their families encourage others to just “Pack-a-Sack” and take it with you. Someone out there could use it!

The T. T. Wentworth Museum held its own “Best of Show” awards February 15, and for the first time, an award was given for the performance category. Judah Del Gallo from N.B. Cook was honored as the first recipient of this award AND got to perform his piece at the ceremony opening.

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NB Cook Distributes Remote Schoolwork

Like schools all over the district and world, N. B. Cook’s faculty and staff prepared remote learning materials and facilitated pick up for their students the week of March 30. We were happy to see our students, even at a safe distance!

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Autauga County Schools

St. Paul Enjoys Historical Presentations

Third-graders at St. Paul Catholic School gave presentations on famous people in history. Each student chose a person featured in the “Who Was” book series, studied him, dressed like him, and then gave a presentation to the class on that person. What a fun way to learn about so many important historical figures!

Please email news to schoolnews@greaterpensacolaparents.com!

Greater Pensacola Parents I May 2020

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NB Cook’s First Remote Spirit Day

On April 9, National Unicorn Day, N. B. Cook Elementary held its first remote spirit day, with aliens and unicorns galore! School Spirit Day can’t be contained by four walls. N. B. Cook’s calendar has lots of special plans for ways the kids can stay involved from the safety of their own homes.

Creative Learning Academy Teachers Miss Their Students!

Art at Home EXPLORE VIRTUAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS FROM THE PENSACOLA MUSEUM OF ART INCLUDING: •DAILY HOME ART ACTIVITIES • VIRTUAL EXHIBITION TOURS •VIRTUAL ARTIST WORKSHOPS

HEAD TO PENSACOLAMUSEUM.ORG TO LEARN MORE.

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Autauga County Schools

Creative Learning Academy Middle School Students Study Civil Rights Movement

After studying the Civil Rights Movement, Creative Learning Academy students visited Montgomery, Ala., in early March. Students walked in the steps of those who conducted the Montgomery Bus Boycott; stood in the firebombed parsonage of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., where they saw the very typewriter he used to

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write his most famous speeches; and were able to walk the flightline and hangars used by the Tuskegee Airmen during World War II. They even met three of the remaining Tuskegee Airmen! The students also toured the university founded by former slave, Booker T. Washington; visited his grand mansion, The Oaks; and experienced the triumph of a former slave. They witnessed one of the most powerful museums and memorials in the country—The Peace and Justice Museum and Memorial. Finally, before returning home, they walked over the historic Edmund Pettus Bridge, while contemplating their role in shaping our country’s future. “It was a powerful and memorable trip,” said a student. “A once and a lifetime experience.”

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PHS IB Student Sews COVID-19 Face Masks

Pensacola High School International Baccalaureate Student Chloe Cateâ€™s CAS project is making doll clothing and pillow cases for the juvenile patients at Nemours Childrenâ€™s Hospital. Since the COVID-19 crisis, Cate has switched gears. She, her CAS supervisor, and former IB student Ben Sherrod, have been working over the past few weeks and together they have made almost 60 face masks! Some of their masks have been mailed to New York City, Alabama and Dallas. The majority of them, of course, will be used in Pensacola. Cate has worked for hours at a time, days in a row, to help cut, iron and sew these masks to fill the shortage of protective gear for people on the frontlines in the medical field, airlines, and delivery services. What a great way to use her CAS Project to help others during this difficult time. Thank you, Chloe!

Montessori Students Begin Distance Learning

Students at Montessori School of Pensacola are staying in touch with their schoolwork while distance learning.

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Redeemer Lutheran Goes Digital

NB Cook LOVES Volunteers!

The school building may be closed, but students are still learning! Students, teachers and staff are proving they are both resilient and adaptable as they face the challenge of switching to online learning.

February 14 was N. B. Cook Elementary’s annual volunteer appreciation luncheon. Guests were treated to lunch, dessert and volunteer-themed entertainment from the N. B. Cool Chorus.

Montessori Teachers Get Surprise

A special someone left a fun surprise, for the teachers at Montessori School of Pensacola.

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

NB Cook Family Art Night

March 5 was an awesome family art night at N. B. Cook! We had guest artists, art stations, art raffles, arts-related community organizations and businesses (Abrakadoodle, Pensacola Museum of Art, Artel, and Gallery 1060), all students had art on display, and the N. B. Cook Winterguard Club had its inaugural performance. Thank you to Patti Wheeler and the art department for putting this special evening together, and thanks to Alison Kitchin for sponsoring Winterguard.

SPCS Distinguished Grads Announced

Congratulations to St. Paul Catholic School’s two newly awarded Distinguished Graduates, Lisa Frazier and Mike Eddins! This year SPCS honored siblings who attended 1st through 8th grades with this special award. Frazier is the school’s office secretary, and Eddins has served on the school finance council for many years. Their dedication and service to our school and to our community exemplifies the qualities we hope to grow and encourage in all of our student Spartans. Greater Pensacola Parents I May 2020

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Autauga County Schools News from Pine Meadow Elementary

Here is a look at what everyone was up to at Pine Meadow Elementary School, before the switch to learning from home. Left, Pine Meadow Elementary Schoolâ€™s annual Talent Show held in February 2020! Right is Super Saturday of Fun at Pine Meadowâ€™s Carnival held March 7, 2020. Below, the PMES PTA treated 2nd graders to popcorn, snowcones, and treat bags after their trip to the zoo was canceled due to COVID-19.

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Autauga County Schools

Little Flower Catholic School Creates at Home!

With all our learning happening at home, students have behind expressing their creativity through craft! Here, two students made Trash Recycle Monsters our students love finding ways to make learning fun!

NB Cook Raises Funds at Winterfest

On February 8, N. B. Cook Elementary Schoolâ€™s PTA held its annual Winterfest, raising more than $16,000 for school programs and teacher grants!

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

Montessori Teachers Keep the Distance

Teachers at Montessori School of Pensacola worked on keeping a safe distance while supplying school families with work packets during packet pick-up.

Greater Pensacola Parents I May 2020

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C. A. Weis Transitions to Online Learning

While the classrooms are empty, Chromebooks were bagged up at C.A. Weis Elementary to send home with school books, crayons, pencils, paper and even soap for everyone. The teachers continue teaching and loving their children, just from a distance, while using Google Meets and Facebook. Even the pre-K three- and four-year-old classes are continuing!

ECSD Schools Use Creativity to Connect to Students

How do you tell your students you are thinking about them when they canâ€™t come to school and the teachers are not supposed to gather either? Escambia County School District is finding creative ways. Here is a message from the staff at Montclair Elementary.

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Screen Time in the Age of Coronovirus

Don’t feel guilty. We are living through a massive cultural shock. Families have enough stress to deal with, and counting screen minutes should be very low on the list of concerns for any of us. Not all screens are created equal. Worried that the online classroom is adding to your kid’s screen time? Don’t be. Screen activities shouldn’t be lumped together. Some are educational; some are just for fun. Some are high-quality; some are a guilty pleasure. What we do on screens and how we do it is more important than time spent.

For parents like me (I have a 5-year-old and a 7-year-old)— who are suddenly assuming multiple roles as caregivers, teachers, and playmates—the same questions are on repeat: What in the world am I going to do with my kids all day from now until who knows when? And … how many movies is it OK for them to watch in one day? Parents tend to think of screen use guidelines as a daily maximum amount that’s acceptable. But if you look closely at popular recommendations, such as the ones from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the message—even before the coronavirus pandemic— is much more nuanced, and much less focused on time. For a while now, media researchers have been advocating for a shift from screen quantity to content quality. If kids are engaged with high-quality content that stokes curiosity and fuels imagination, who’s to say that should end when they’ve hit their screen limit? Research has also uncovered the importance of kids’ experience with media, based on who uses media with kids (siblings? parents?), the purpose of the content (school? entertainment?), and who’s talking with kids about what they’re watching (Daniel Tiger and Tiger King both make for great mealtime conversation). In other words: Context matters, too. Key to this nuance is understanding that all screens are not equal. We shouldn’t act as though one hour of old DuckTales cartoons is the same as one hour of Zooming with a family member, or one hour of playing Fortnite with a friend, or one hour of drawing tutorials on YouTube. What a kid gets out of each is totally different, and satisfies different needs—and that’s OK. One of the things the current crisis has really brought home is how unbelievably social kids are, and want to be. In some ways, our adaptations to staying at home have made us use technology in ways that are great for children: in service of relationships. Kids may be watching more Netflix and playing more video games than usual. But they’re also video-chatting more, playing games with schoolmates, and even enjoying online playdates. Though nothing will ever replace in-person interaction for children, using tech to strengthen relationships is more important than ever. With that in mind, here are some recommendations when it comes to using screens during this time: Greater Pensacola Parents I May 2020

Good content is key. Choose age-appropriate, highquality media and tech for your kids. Use our reviews to find good content. Get creative. Let kids use your phone to shoot photos and videos and then go to town with stickers, slo-mo, and other editing tools. Give them a prompt like, “Take ten pictures of something round, and then write a story connecting each thing.” Have them make their own memes, record a song, choreograph a dance video—anything that gets them using screens to fulfill their imaginations. Use tech to bond. Relationships are critical to kids’ healthy development. Tech can and should help kids connect to friends and family, collaborate with each other, play, and share stories, pictures, and videos. Talk about it. We’re in a unique position where kids are likely using screens more, and we may have more opportunities to join them—or at least engage with them about what they’re watching and playing. Ask questions about their favorite games, shows, and characters. Discuss ideas and issues they read about or learn about through a TV show or a game. This is an opportunity for learning about each other and sharing your values. Balance still matters. We should aim for a balance throughout the week. So, more screens? Fine. But also find time to be outside, to be active (indoors or outdoors, with or without screens), eat well, and talk to friends and family (on the phone, on social media, or on video chat). The time at home with kids presents an opportunity to bond with them, even over media. This is not the time to try to deprive kids of something they enjoy and something that research has shown to have positive effects when used appropriately. There’s a ton of great high-quality content out there—let your kids use it, use it with them, and don’t guilt yourself over something that can still be part of a healthy, balanced childhood—especially during these times of heightened stress. 20

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The New Federal Income Tax Deadline is July 15: What You Need to Know It feels like the world has been turned upside down recently. Our plans have been cancelled or delayed for the foreseeable future—even our taxes! The Federal government is trying to take some pressure off Americans who are running short on cash during the coronavirus crisis, so they’ve pushed back the tax deadline from April 15 to July 15. I want to answer some important questions about the new deadline. Does this extension apply to everyone? Yes. The government has delayed income taxes for individuals, small businesses, trusts and estates, and corporations. Are state income taxes due on July 15? As of early April, most of the 42 states that collect income taxes have also extended the deadline to July 15—but there are a few

exceptions. Check your state’s guidelines to find out more. What about quarterly taxes? If you pay quarterly taxes on self-employment income, this extension applies only to the first quarter (January 1 to March 31). The other deadlines for quarterly taxes remain the same. In fact, second-quarter payments are due June 15—a month before first-quarter payments! Should I wait to file my taxes? No. Unless you’re in a full-blown crisis situation, you should go ahead and file your taxes now. If you’re expecting a refund, you can use the extra money to take care of basic needs, or you can sweep it into your emergency fund. If you’re expecting to owe taxes, then it’s best to find out how much as soon as possible so you can budget and save for the payment.

What if I still can’t pay my taxes by July 15? If you’re still in a tight spot by July 15, the first thing to do is pay as much as you can by the deadline—even if it’s a fraction of what you owe. Then, contact the IRS directly to let them know about your situation. They should work with you to set up a payment plan. But keep in mind that you need to attack that debt with every extra dollar you have until it’s gone. Bottom line: Whether you face them now or in three months, your taxes aren’t going anywhere. Don’t put them off. Tackle them head on so you remain in control and know where you stand with your money! Contributed by guest writer Chris Hogan, a #1 national best-selling author, dynamic speaker and host of The Chris Hogan Show. For more than a decade, Hogan has served at Ramsey Solutions, equipping and challenging people to take control of their money and reach their financial goals.

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Itâ€™s an unusual ending to the school year. Instead of year book signings, field days and end-of- the-year parties, kids are at home waiting to catch glimpses of their friends on Zoom. Itâ€™s a tough time for kids, and keeping them motivated to finish the school year strong is tough for parents. Here are 10 tips to keep your child on the path to the finish line.

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1. Send the message that school is a priority. Communicate to children that school is important, even if it isn’t occurring at the school building. Continue to read together, check in with them on their assignments, and take an interest in what they are learning. Research one of their school topics or check out your local library digitally to find online access to learning tools and books.

2. Set a goal. Help your child set an academic goal they can achieve during the last weeks of school. Maybe they want to learn all their multiplication tables or read a thousand pages. If they meet their goal, reward them with something simple like ice cream or a new school supply or book.

3. Stay on Schedule. Kids crave structure like to know what to expect, especially when times are tough. Try to keep routines like homework time, dinner time, and bed time. Make a conscious effort to keep the same schedule you had before virtual schooling began.

4. Replace supplies. By now your child’s notebooks, folders, pencils and crayons probably look worn out. Replacing these inexpensively and having them delivered to your house can be a quick pick-me-up that motivates your child.

5. Set up an outdoor classroom. Sometimes changing location gives a child that second wind they need to make it to the finish line. Let children have outdoor class time on the patio. When math problems are completed correctly, they can take a walk or ride bikes. Let them read in a hammock, in a lawn chair or in an outside tent. When they reach their goal, they can pass the football or shoot hoops. Plant a family garden as a science project and let the kids make observations when they are taking a break from their school work.

6. Hold an end of the year countdown. There are many ways to count down the days until the end of the school year. Mark off days on a calendar or put popsicle sticks or marbles in a jar and remove one each day, or share a special treat. For each child in your house, fill a container with Hershey’s kisses that match the number of days left. “Kiss” the last days of school goodbye with one countdown chocolate each day when kids finish their school work.

7. Thank the teacher virtually. Teachers work hard, even when they are teaching virtually. Make a video or a take a picture of your child holding a sign with a message for his or her teacher. Then email it or use the teacher’s digital platform to send it to him or her. Your child could also decorate a card and write

an encouraging note and give it to the teacher when school resumes in the fall.

8. Plan a virtual recess. Kids crave social time with their friends, so this is the hardest part of them being out of school. Schedule a structured social time each day or week for your child to Face Time, Zoom, Skype or email a friend they miss.

9. Make virtual sports or arts part of school. An important part of school is physical activity and the arts. Is your baseball player down because he misses throwing his curve ball? Maybe your martial arts lover is itching to practice her kicks. Why not sign up for virtual lessons? If you don’t have the right equipment it can easily be purchased online, and many instructors are setting up virtual venues for lessons. There are many virtual art classes, and lots of “how to draw” lessons free on YouTube.

10. Celebrate. Have a dance party in the den, a luau in the living room or arrange a Zoom party to celebrate the last day of school. If you’re in doubt about what to do, ask the kids. Even when they have to find a virtual way to have a party, kids are clever and will find a creative way to celebrate! GPP Janeen Lewis is a freelance journalist, teacher and mom to Andrew and Gracie. She loves to finish the school year strong with her students and family.

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Playing with the Wonder of Wind

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Whether the wind is rifling their hair or they’re blowing out candles, kids experience the movement of air with joy and curiosity. And while they can’t see the wind, they can feel its passage and observe its effects on the world around them. The trembling of leaves on trees, clouds billowing across the sky, and flags waving from a pole, all these point to something moving unseen through their world. From sailboats to windmills, humans throughout history have harnessed the winds that stirred their youthful imaginations. Giving kids the opportunity to explore one of nature’s most mysterious forces, the following toys breathe new life into the uplifting wonder of wind and its power to move the world.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Nylon Diamond Kite

Airzooka

In addition to being a rite of passage for children worldwide, kite-flying is also an interactive way for kids to explore weather, physics, gravity and other scientific concepts through play. With its traditional shape and simple assembly, the Nylon Diamond Kite from Chipmunkk is the simplest introduction to kite-flying. Crafted from super strong, rip-resistant nylon, these kites are as tough as they are beautiful. The kit includes everything you need to get started (string, reel, support struts),conveniently packaged in a reusable bag. Encouraging kids to watch the weather forecast for windy days will help ensure their first kite lofts are successful. The Nylon Diamond Kite is just one of a colorful variety of kite-styles from Chipmunkk that families can try out as they learn to harness the power of the wind.

Take the power of the wind in hand with the Airzooka air-launching system. Lightweight with slick design, this cannon delivers a blast of wind across a room by trapping air and then firing it forward. The operation is easy, a simple pull of the elastic launcher draws air into the barrel, releasing the elastic propels an ‘air bomb’ toward its target. It never runs out of ammo, and has no small pieces to lose along the way. Airzooka also features a pop-up site for improved accuracy. Whether you’re puffing your parent’s hair from across the room, blowing up a game of air tag with friends, or honing your air blast skills with some indoor target practice, Airzooka offers endless opportunities to wield the wind at will!

(Chipmunkk)

(Squirrel Products)

Wind Power Strandbeest

Bubble Gun Blaster (BamGo)

Blowing bubbles is one of the coolest (and cleanest) ways for very young children to observe air and wind in action. Featuring a soft, foam fan rotor that’s safe for little fingers, this bubble gun is also lightweight for easy aim. A simple press of the trigger generates air into four rotating hoops, producing a multitude of iridescent bubble in an instant. The gasket sealed battery slot helps prevent corrosion of battery contacts as kids dip and blow bubbles. The bubble gun comes with an initial supply of soap solution as well as a “How To” guide on making kid-friendly bubbles with safe products from around the house. Ideal for backyards or balconies, parks or pools, the Bubble Gun Blaster blows in with clear, clean fun!

(Bo-Toys)

Inspired by artist Theo Jansen’s marvelous kinetic wind-powered sculptures that ramble across windswept dunes, the Wind Power Strandbeest combines the mechanics of wind-powered engineering with table top scale. Lightweight plastic pieces easily assemble into a working model, with a propeller-like turbine that will power it forward. While the model is somewhat fragile, it only takes the slightest of wind to breathe life into the creation. Reminiscent of the fluttering leg movements of millipedes, a breath of air or the blow from a hairdryer will start the hypnotic perambulations of the Strandbeest’s limbs as it moves forward. Guaranteed to captivate observers and stir the imagination of builders, this little model makes the most of wind and wonder.

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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Being a high school graduate and preparing for college is a stellar achievement. It’s a time to get young adults ready for the life ahead with some practical and essential life skills. If you’ve been a parent who has managed most things for your soon-to-be college freshman, some core competencies are sometimes unintentionally neglected. However, by taking the time and necessary actions to teach them some foundational skills in advance, you can relieve any anxiety or uncertainty, making their transition into the next phase of their life much easier. For them to become acclimated in the world of “adulting” here are some skills needed.

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Waking up on time.

This may seem simple, but it may have been easy living at home. Unfortunately, if they haven’t been waking up to the dreaded sound of an alarm clock, rather than waking up to the pleasant sound of your voice, they’ll no longer have that luxury in college.

Studying. Your student figuring out what works for them is the key to success. Do they study better alone, in a group, or with a tutor? They should discover what works best for them now and develop a plan. Communicate with professors. Though this

may seem intimidating to do, believe it or not, professors want their students to succeed. Creating lines of communication with professors will be extremely helpful throughout their college career.

More Skills to Consider: 1) They should know how to find their polling place and vote. 2) They should know their social security number by heart. They will need it-often. 3) They should know that Tupperware is NOT disposable, it is reusable. 4) They should have a copy of their insurance card and carry it with them at all times. 5) They should know that if they park in a tow zone, there is a possibility that their car will be towed. 6) They should know the basics of over-thecounter medications. Advil, Tylenol and Motrin are analgesics. None of them should be mixed with alcohol. 7) Utilities can be expensive so pick a reasonable temperature for winter and summer and don’t leave all the lights on. From GrownandFlown.com.

Money management. This might be one of your biggest fears when think-

compare prices and providing them with affordable recipes that are easy and quick to prepare.

Car maintenance. If your child owns a car now, it’s the perfect time to help them develop good car maintenance habits. Some things to consider are when and where to change their oil, how to check tire pressure, change windshield wipers, and how to change a tire. Attend class. The days of a

class roster are over. And, attending a college course is often not a requirement like in high school. However, their attendance is a reflection of their achievements; therefore, it’s crucial to attend class.

Public transportation.

Although you may be sending your child off to college with a car, car issues and repairs do occur. And they need to understand how public transportation works such as a transit bus, Uber, or taxi.

Keep your priorities intact.

This is another important life skill to keep in sight. If kids outline their priorities for being in college, this will help them stay focused and stay on track. Creating a list of responsibilities at the beginning will ensure they will not stray too far from their goals.

ing about sending your child off to college. To keep it simple for them, discuss monitoring small expenditures like a latte from Starbucks, ordering a movie on demand, or eating out that can add up quickly. Explaining financial responsibility regarding smaller purchases will help them see the bigger picture of managing their finances long term.

Disconnect from distractions. There are a lot of distractions in college, and one of the biggest ones could potentially be having a social life and hanging out with friends. Every student needs a healthy outlet; however, they need to learn how to balance unnecessary distractions.

Time management. The responsibility to maintain

their schedule now solely falls on them, which can be a huge adjustment and rude awakening if they are not prepared. An easy way to help them adjust to this change is by introducing them to time management tools, such as a calendar on their smartphone or a to-do list in their class planner. This will help them organize their day by planning to rest, leaving extra time in their day, limiting study breaks and setting deadlines.

Be open to change. Going to college is a huge

change for any high school graduate. Chances are, there will be things that make them uncomfortable and force them out of their comfort zone. But it’s their time to explore the world that awaits them and embrace the journey ahead.

Laundry. If your child hasn’t been taking on this task, now is the ideal time for them to practice and master their skills. Guide them on which temperatures to use, the difference between bleach, detergent, and fabric softer—and the proper way to use them. Help them understand how not to turn their favorite red shirt pink.

Transitioning to college is quite a change. Every life skill is incredibly valuable to your soon-to-be college student’s success. If you start teaching them now, it will make their transition so much more enjoyable for them and you... and you’ll feel more comfortable with them starting the next chapter of their life. GPP

Grocery shopping and cooking. Typically, with a high school student, chances

Kimberley Carter Spivey is an Alabama-born freelance writer, author, blogger, and editor. Founder of Girl, You Write, her work appears in numerous publications across Alabama.

are you’re doing the grocery shopping and cooking. Start with teaching the basics...how to create a shopping list and 27

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A Page in a Book Two For One Reading: Bilingual Books For young children, collecting language is an active part of their brain chemistry. Children are built to absorb information; their minds subconsciously gathering words and meanings, constantly in a state of passive learning. While we can all learn a new language, research shows it is easier for young children to acquire a second language, boosting multiple cognitive and social benefits for the child. The read-aloud age is an ideal time to introduce a new language to kids. With meaningful stories and paired reading, kids and adults can pick up words and phrases that may spur further bilingual exploration. Featuring simple words and phrases in two languages, the following titles offer two-for-one learning folded into one story time.

Palo y Piedra / Stick and Stone

by Beth Ferry, Illustrated by Tom Lichtenheld (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) Stick stands alone on a beach staring at the empty line of the horizon, while round Stone gazes at the moon. Stick is solitario (lonely) and Stone is sola (alone). Both lament their solitude as they make their separate ways to the playground. When Stone gets teased by Pinecone, Stick charges in with just the right word to send the bully on his way. As they discover the languages of friendship, these very different characters find their individual strengths multiply when they work together. Combining very brief bilingual text (English and Spanish), some clever puns, and expressive illustrations, this title is a sweet introduction friendship that transcends language.

Let’s Learn Japanese: First Words for Everyone

by Aurora Cacciapuoti (Chronicle Books) Wildly divergent from English in both sound and symbol, Japanese language can be a challenge to explore. Let’s Learn Japanese offers simple translations for common objects punctuated with Japanese flair. Filled with pictures and items from everyday life, each object has a caption in English followed by its kanji (ideographic symbol), its kana (sound symbols) and its romaji (essentially the pronunciation in English).The illustrations are clear, clean and grouped in themes, allowing for the extra text information to be more easily digested. Ideal for sampling Japanese words and testing the water for more in-depth language learning, this title is an excellent primer for children with an interest in Japanese culture. Picking up Japanese words is as easy as ichi-ni-san!

Penguins Love Colors

by Sarah Aspinall (Scholastic) Even though they live in a very snowy, very white environment, these six penguin siblings love color. Named after brightly colored botanicals, Tulip, Tiger Lily, Dandelion, Broccoli, Bluebell and Violet want to create something special for their Mama. And what better gift for her than to make something that features their own colorful namesakes. Each penguin embraces their own hue as they enthusiastically (and messily) craft gifts that only a mother can truly appreciate. The bilingual text asks the reader questions to more fully engage them in the penguins’ story. With its sweet and simple message, Penguins Love Colors delivers twice the tale in both English and Spanish.

Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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The Willoughbys

The Main Event

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: C Violence: C+ Sexual Content: B+ Profanity: B Alcohol / Drug Use: B Whether or not you will enjoy The Willoughbys depends entirely on your enjoyment of very dark humor. I have always enjoyed quirky films but this one goes too far for me. Frankly, I just can’t laugh at a movie that is centered around the abuse and neglect of children. Mr. and Mrs. Willoughby (voiced by Martin Short and Jane Krakowski) are wrapped up in one another, kissing and gazing at each other constantly. When Mrs. Willoughby gives birth to Tim (voiced by Will Forte), the couple are appalled. The new father dumps his infant son in the hallway, berates him for his birth and tells him, “If you need love, I beg of you, find it elsewhere.” Their attitude does not change with the birth of three more children – a musical daughter named Jane (Alessia Cara) and inventive twins, both named Barnaby (Seán Cullen). The children are ignored, starved, and thrown into the coal bin whenever they disturb the adults’ romantic idyll. Not surprisingly, the children decide they would be better off without parents and figure out a plan to “craft a murderous adventure” so they can “orphan themselves”. If the plot doesn’t give parents cause for concern, there are plenty of events in the movie that will. It is difficult to overstate the cruelty with which the Willoughby parents treat their children. Despite the toxic parents, there are a very few positive elements in the film. The Willoughby siblings love each other and have close, nurturing bonds. Their love and unity makes it all the more painful when the children are separated by “Orphan Services”. This is a movie that makes viewers appreciate the need all children have for stable, loving families.

MPAA Rating: TV-G Overall: AViolence: B Sexual Content: A Profanity: B Alcohol / Drug Use: A Eleven-year-old Leo (Seth Carr) is obsessed with the WWE. While hiding from some bullies, he discovers a magical wrestling mask that grants him super strength. Knowing his family needs the money, he secretly enters a wrestling competition. With the help of his supportive grandmother (Tichina Arnold) and friends, Leo will discover what true strength is. I’m just gonna come right out the gate and say it - I really enjoyed this movie. I know very little about wrestling (what I do know I learned from Nacho Libre), but you don’t need to understand the sport to appreciate what The Main Event is doing. The themes are really what set it apart from most family fare, with the main message being that mental and emotional strength are more important than physical strength. The movie also encourages kids to step out of their comfort zones and try things that scare them. And as an added bonus, there is a subplot that revolves around Leo’s family in which both Leo and his father (Adam Pally) learn how to open up and trust each other. I have to give a shout out to the single dad representation. It’s hard to find media aimed at children that depicts single fathers, but this film does a great job. In terms of content, if you’ve ever watched professional wrestling, you’ll be relieved to know that this is the toned-down version of the theatrically violent sport. The fighting is so over-the-top that even a young viewer will be able to see that it is outside the realm of reality. The Main Event is sweet and heartfelt without straying into sappy territory, and it’s a great choice for family viewing.

Trolls World Tour

Tigertail

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B+ Violence: B Sexual Content: A Profanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A Trolls World Tour is a day-glo musical fantasy for kids. Eye-poppingly colorful, relentlessly cheerful, and filled with music-video-style montages, it will have young viewers happily bopping along to the tunes. Is it a great movie? No. But it could be a useful one. The story, such as it is, is based on a piece of Troll history. All of the six Troll tribes used to live in harmony until conflict over music led to a sundering of the groups. But now, Queen Barb (voiced by Rachel Bloom) of the Hard Rock Trolls is determined to seize all the magical music strings, play one power chord on her guitar, and forcibly unite all trolls under rock. As the kingdoms fall before her sonic blasts, only Queen Poppy (Anna Kendrick) and her faithful friend, Branch (Justin Timberlake) are willing to resist. The real reason to watch this film is for the messages it repeatedly imparts to children. As she begins her quest to save music, Poppy is filled with sunny optimism – she will find Barb, convince her that trolls are all the same, and become her best friend. But as Poppy travels through the troll lands and meets country trolls, and funk trolls and K-pop trolls, she realizes that trolls aren’t all the same. If you’re trying to teach your children to truly value diversity instead of papering over differences, this is the movie for you. Whether it’s worth coughing up the $20 for the video-on-demand early release is up to you. Frankly, I’d wait until the price drops but I’m not sheltering in place with hyper, quarreling kids so your priorities may well differ from mine.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: AViolence: A Sexual Content: B Profanity: BAlcohol / Drug Use: B Pin-Jui (Hong-Chi Lee, played in older age by Tzi Ma) dreams of leaving Taiwan and going to America. Growing up working, either on his grandmother’s rice farm or in a factory with his mother (Yang Kuei-mei), Pin-Jui wants a better life. His opportunity to go to the US finally comes, but with a terrible choice: he would have to abandon Yuan (Yo-Hsing Fang and Joan Chen), the young woman he loves, and marry Zhenzhen (Kunjue Li and Fiona Fu), whose father will pay for the move. Years later, with his mother dead and his family crumbling, Pin-Jui starts to realize the magnitude of his decisions. These intergenerational dramas present an interesting perspective on the long-term effects of early life choices. I don’t think people, especially in highly individualistic Western societies, really think about the effects our choices have on future generations. Movies like this make those echoes far more apparent. But this isn’t a movie for everyone. The long, slow drama means that there are a lot of shots of characters sitting silently while somber music plays. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, but it makes for a very sedate viewing experience. Add to that the fact that much of the movie is in Mandarin or Taiwanese (with English subtitles) and this isn’t a movie for those seeking fast-paced action and adventure. This is thoughtful and complex, and unlikely to leave you with a nice warm feeling. On the other hand, there are almost no content concerns. As far as thoughtful drama goes, this is about as family-friendly as it gets.

(Streaming on Netflix)

(Video On Demand)

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(Streaming on Netflix)