The Florida Department of Health in Escambia County Breastfeeding Program is designed to support mothers and infants in achieving optimal health outcomes. WE
WIC Provides:
•Breastfeeding support with trained Peer Counselors
• Board Certified Lactation Consultants and Registered Dietitians
• Additional WIC benefits for qualifying mothers, such as nutrition education and healthcare referrals
• Free prenatal breastfeeding classes and support groups
• Breast pumps and pump supplies (eligibility for breast pumps is determined by WIC team)
To apply for WIC visit: FloridaWIC.org or SignUPWIC.com
Breastfeeding Support Services 850-595-6670 option 2
April 2025
Tips for Reducing Sibling Rivalry
What
Summer Camp Guide
Find the perfect fit for your child in our listing of local and regional camps.
Family Camping Trips
Get
Changing Friendships
Expert advice about friendships and how they change in the teen years.
On The Cover
Caroline Rae Coxe (18 months), daughter of Steve and Katie Coxe.
Caroline loves to be outside! Her favorite toys right now are her baby dolls and cars. She laughs the most when being tickled, and when we say “No Way!”
She can be a picky eater, but gets excited anytime she hears the word “snack.” She loves to finish the day with a bath and bedtime story.
FromThePublisher
I was walking through the store with my daughter at the beginning of her 7th-grade year when we ran into one of her friends she hadn’t seen since spring. I expected an excited greeting, followed by a flurry of summer stories, but instead, they exchanged only a slight wave and half-smile—just enough to acknowledge each other but not enough to truly engage.
Naturally, I asked my daughter if they were still friends. She shrugged and said, “Yeah, she’s really nice, but I don’t really know her anymore.” Her response caught me off guard. Later, I brought it up with her older sister, who matter-of-factly confirmed, “If you don’t talk over the summer, the friendship doesn’t automatically renew when school starts again.”
I suppose it makes sense, but it still felt strange. I initially felt guilty for not fostering those friendships more over the summer. But then I realized that she had stayed in touch with some friends and made plans with them. Maybe it wasn’t neglect—just the natural progression of a tween finding her group.
This shifting of friendships can be puzzling, and sometimes it’s hard on parents, too—especially when we’ve become friends with the other child’s mom. I’ve been in that situation. Fortunately, we recognized that our daughters were simply growing in different directions, and it didn’t mean our own friendship had to end.
If you’re navigating similar changes, this month’s feature, Expert Advice About Changing Friendships During the Teen Years by Cheryl Maguire, offers helpful insight into this common but often confusing phase.
Of course, friendships aren’t the only relationships that change over time. Sibling dynamics have their own ups and downs. Like my brothers and me, my daughters have had times when they were inseparable and times when you’d think a WWE title was on the line—over something as small as a favorite sweatshirt. My oldest once described someone by saying, “You can tell she doesn’t have a sibling. She doesn’t know what it’s like to have a sister you fight with, to the point of yelling, then sit down five minutes later and laugh while watching a movie together.”
Siblings share a complicated dynamic, and as parents, we strive to ensure each child feels equally valued and loved. In my family, my girls’ different interests helped avoid major comparisons, but I know that’s not the case for everyone. If your family is struggling with sibling rivalry, check out Reducing Sibling Rivalry: What to Do and Say by Dr. Tanni Haas for expert guidance on keeping the peace.
If you’re looking for ways to foster friendships over the summer—or to help your child find their thing—flip over to our expanded Summer Camp Directory. Whether your child loves sports, STEM, or the arts, we’ve gathered a huge selection of local and sleepaway camps to help them explore their passions and build new connections.
And don’t forget to check out our Family Calendar for all the fun spring activities coming up. Wishing you all a safe and joyful Spring Break!
Lynnlynn@greaterpensacolaparents.com
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 2025 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.
by Works of Wonder Therapy www.worksofwondertherapy.com
When Your Child Steals
You must accept that your child is going to steal something at least once. Typically, children do not know that stealing is wrong unless they do it and are corrected. You must avoid overreacting when you realize your child has stolen something. Parents often take extreme punitive measures because they are overwhelmed by the fear of raising a thief and a liar. However, punishments alone do not teach the necessary skills that will prevent the child from stealing again in the future.
How to Respond Appropriately
1. When you realize that your child has stolen something, simply have him return or replace the item. If he cannot afford to replace it with his own money, give him the money and create a repayment plan through chores.
2. If you know your child stole an item, do not ask questions. Address the situation by saying, “I know you took my bracelet. I did the same thing when I was a child, but it is wrong, and I need you to ask permis-
sion first.” You can also ask questions that will help your child think about how the theft impacts others. For example, “How do you think that would impact a store owner? or How do you think it made me feel when my grandmother’s bracelet was not in my jewelry box?”
3. If your child stole from a store, help them practice returning the item to the owner. Make sure you help her understand that she did something wrong, but returning the item will correct the wrong and strengthen her character.
4. Never assume that your child stole something maliciously because it may have been a mistake. A lot of children put things in their pockets and forget they are there. If they have a friend’s toy, simply say, “I know that your friend is going to be so sad when he realizes this is missing. I am going to call his mom and tell them we have it.”
5. If you suspect your child is stealing to support a gambling or drug habit, get professional help. This will require outside intervention.
How to Prevent Future Problems with Stealing
1. Discuss stealing before it happens. Help your child understand that it is wrong and what they should do instead.
2. Some children feel unloved, not cared for, and hurt so they feel justified in hurting others. Go out of your way to make your children feel loved by meeting physical/ emotional/social needs, spending time, buying tiny gifts, and consistently speaking encouraging words. When your children do something wrong, separate what they did from who they are.
3. Give your children opportunities to earn money so they can save up and buy what they want.
4. Decrease temptation at an age-appropriate level. Maybe an older sibling needs a place to lock up preferred items while the younger child is learning to ask permission.
5. Keep an open dialogue with your children about their feelings of your parenting and favoritism. Address their concerns and change your behavior if necessary. You may want to investigate the 5 Love Languages for Children by Gary Chapman.
6. Show unconditional love but do not rescue your child every time they make a mistake. Let them suffer the consequences of their actions so they learn to make better choices in the future.
Dr. Beth Long received her education in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Beth has worked in six unique clinical environments across the country and currently owns Works of Wonder Therapy in Montgomery. Beth utilizes the knowledge from a variety of different disciplines to give her patients the best care possible. To learn more visit www.worksofwondertherapy.com.
Pensacola Crawfish Festival
Join us April 25-27, 2025 in Seville Square and Fountain Park for Pensacola Crawfish Festival. Hours are Friday from 11 am – 11 pm, Saturday 10 am11 pm and Sunday 11 am-5 pm. Great food, live entertainment, arts and crafts vendors, and activities for all ages await you. Please visit https:// www.fiestapensacola.org/crawfish-festival for more information.
Naval Aviation Museum Foundation Art and Essay Contest
The Naval Aviation Museum Foundation (NAMF) is proud to announce the fourth annual Museum Masterpieces Art and Essay Contest in honor of the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. This special year invites participants to create art and essays that celebrate the values of honor, courage, and commitment of these two iconic branches of the military. Whether you’re an aspiring artist or a budding writer, the Museum Masterpieces contest provides a chance for all ages to get creative and pay tribute to the Navy and Marines in a meaningful way. We invite students from grades K through 12 to participate in this exciting event. The Museum Masterpieces contest is divided into several categories, ensuring that all students, regardless of age or skill level, have the chance to showcase their work:
Art (Grades K – 2) Art (Grades 3 – 5) Art (Grades 6 – 8) Art (Grades 9 – 12) Essay/Poem (Grades 6 – 12)
There will be ribbons awarded to the first, second, and third-place winners in each category. Additionally, winners’ submissions will be displayed at the National Naval Aviation Museum for at least six months beginning in July 2025. First-place winners in each category will receive a $100 gift card. Submission Guidelines and Details can be found at: NavalAviationMuseum.org/art-and-essay-contest-2025/. Submission Deadline is April 28, 2025.
Earth Day Pensacola
Come celebrate Earth Day Pensacola on April 19 at Bayview Park from 10 AM - 4 PM. Join us for informative booths from local nonprofits and environmental groups, eco-centric art vendors, free yoga, vegetarian food trucks, and some of the region’s best musicians and entertainers. Lots of interactive activities for children and adults to help us all do better to live more sustainable lives. Please visit https://earthdaypensacola.com/.
Burger Battle by the Bay
Join us on May 2, 2025 starting at 11 AM at Community Maritime Park for the Burger Battle by the Bay. Attendees taste numerous bite-sized samples of mouthwatering grilled burgers made by both professional and amateur teams - and you can vote for your favorite. Proceeds benefit the charitable programs of the Rotary Club of Pensacola Suburban West and the Cordova Rotary Club. Please visit eventbrite.com/e/burger-battle-by-the-bay2025-tickets-1225020793169 for more information.
Vision of Hope Fishing Rodeo
Our annual Vision of Hope Fishing Rodeo will be held Saturday, April 26 at 9 AM at 4512 Morristown Rd, Jay, FL. This free fishing tournament is open to all persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities. No supplies are needed. This is a catch and release event, and a parent or guardian must accompany each participant. Registration is required, registration forms available online at https://www. visionofhopefl.org/.
8th Annual Golf Ball Gala
Join First Tee Gulf Coast for the biggest golf party of the year on April 11 at 6:30pm at the Court Of De Luna Event Space. This Masters-themed Gala will have: live music, food, live & silent auctions, costume contest and much more. Dress in your favorite golf attire or Caddyshack character & come ready to party & keep our programs accessible to local kids. All proceeds benefit the youth programs of First Tee Gulf Coast in our local area, teaching not only golf but life skills. Sponsorship Packages & Tickets available at https://firstteegulfcoast.org/the-golf-ball/.
The Fred Levin Way Fest: April 13
The Fred Levin Way Fest is a free event for the community that occurs once each year in downtown Pensacola and is designed to help families and individuals in need. This event will be held on Sunday, April 13 from 11:00 am-3:00 pm in downtown Pensacola. Food, Games, Music, Art, Prizes, and, most importantly, 60+ nonprofit organizations distributing information on the services they offer to families in need along with gifting essential items, such as backpacks, blankets, books, diapers, first aid kits, hygiene kits, pet food, school supplies, soap, socks, thermometers, toilet paper, toothbrushes, toothpaste, towels, and underwear. Please visit https://fredlevinfest.com/ for more information.
2025 Egga-Wahooza Easter Egg Hunt
Marcus Pointe Baptist Church, The Pensacola Blue Wahoos, and Cat Country 98.7 presents the 2025 Egga-Wahooza Easter Egg Hunt. Join us at Community Maritime Park on Saturday, April 19th for a fun free family event.
Special Needs Hunt & 0 - 4 Year Olds at will be held at 10:00 AM
K5 - 5th Grade at 11:00 AM
COST: FREE! AGES: Walkers to 5th Grade! For more information give us a call at 479-8337.
Pensacola Symphony Orchestra Jazz Brunch
On April 6, 2025, Pensacola Symphony Orchestra will host Jazz Brunch to Support Beyond the Stage, an event to raise funds in support of PSO’s community engagement and music education initiatives, and we want you to join us! This exciting event will be held at the Pensacola Country Club and feature live entertainment with a performance from Ike Sturm and Arta Jekabsone. Please visit https://pensacolasymphony.com/product/ jazz-brunch-2025/ for more information.
Gulf Coast Kid’s House Blue Gala
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to shine a light on the vital work Gulf Coast Kid’s House (GCKH) does to protect and support vulnerable children in Escambia County. In recognition of this mission, GCKH is hosting an exclusive cocktailstyle fundraiser to raise awareness and funds for its essential services.
Gulf Coast Kid’s House is proud to announce Sandy Sansing Dealerships as the Presenting Sponsor of this elegant evening at Culinary Productions event venue in downtown Pensacola (201 E Wright St, Pensacola, FL 32501). On April 30, guests will enjoy delectable heavy appetizers, beer and wine, and live music in a welcoming atmosphere. The night will feature a brief program, a fund-a-need opportunity, and an exciting surprise unveiling—all in support of expanding critical therapy services for the children they serve.
As one of GCKH’s two largest fundraisers of the year, this event plays a crucial role in sustaining and growing their advocacy efforts. Tickets are available now at gulfcoastkidshouse.com/events. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of children in need.
Connecting the Pieces Gala
Come spend the evening with Autism Pensacola and help “Connect the Pieces” on April 10, 2025 from 5:30 pm – 9 pm at Sanders Beach Community Center. Autism Pensacola’s mission is to connect individuals and families with the answers that matter most. These answers are ones of support, resources, guidance, and community inclusion. These are the pieces that help a community thrive. Enjoy an evening with strolling hors d’oeuvres, choice of beverage service, live/silent auction, and connecting the pieces of friendship and inclusion. Please visit https://autismpensacola.org/gala/ for more information.
Escambia County Teacher of the Year
On January 31, Escambia County Public Schools announced Kelly Reed as the 2026 ECPS Teacher of the Year. She was honored at tonight’s School Board Meeting.
Ms. Reed is a kindergarten teacher at Global Learning Academy and is dedicated to helping her students, particularly those in exceptional student education, reach their full potential. She teaches a diverse group of students, including those with various physical and developmental challenges, as well as those from low socio-economic backgrounds. Upon entering her classroom, one can observe her extensive experience with ESE students, as it is filled with active engagement and a genuine sense of joy among her students.
The learning gains Ms. Reed has achieved in reading and math underscore her exceptional ability to inspire and educate a diverse group of learners. She is not only well-loved by her students and their families, but she is also a valued member of the ESE team, providing mentorship and guidance to aspiring teachers of students with disabilities. Ms. Reed’s passion for her students and her commitment to helping them achieve their goals position her as the ideal representative for Escambia County and the State of Florida as the 2026 Teacher of the Year.
Ms. Reed’s contributions to Escambia County Public Schools exemplify the dedication, adaptability, and innovation necessary for the preparation of our students’ successful and meaningful futures. She is truly an invaluable asset to her students, her school, and the wider community.
Ms. Reed will now move on to represent Escambia County Public Schools in the state Teacher of the Year competition.
Presidents Day Program at Bratt Elementary
On Wednesday, February 12, second grade students at Bratt Elementary shared a Presidents Day program today, in which some even dressed as past and present presidents. There were specials guests like the Obamas, the Bidens, and the Trumps. Students also learned about the presidents throughout our nation’s history.
Pensacola High Shares at School Board Workshop
Students from Pensacola High School’s chapter of Future Business Leaders of America visited the School Board workshop and shared details of their program and its realworld benefits.
These outstanding students explained the value of this chapter in their educational and vocational journeys. They regaled those in attendance with their stories of opportunities to compete, travel, earn industry certifications, participate in community service projects, and so much more.
At ECPS, we are equipping some outstanding young people with technical skills needed to be successful in the workplace and in life.
Catholic High School Names Ten Senior Students to Hall of Fame
Ten Seniors were announced as the latest inductees into the Catholic High School Student Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame was first created by the CHS Student Council in 1982 and its purpose is to honor students who show outstanding personal achievement and integrity through their attitude and service. The criteria for nomination and induction into the Hall of Fame include: an unweighted GPA of 2.0 or higher; good conduct, good citizenship; eligibility in light of the Academic Integrity Policy; performance of service to school and community; demonstrated leadership and a positive attitude; and active involvement in school organiza tions. The Senior Class, athletic teams, clubs, and extracurricular organizations nominate eligible Seniors for consideration. After nominations are compiled, the faculty and Senior Class make the final selection through an anonymous balloting process.
On February 21, inductees were recognized for their status as exemplary Crusaders as they were announced during a ceremony in which their families joined them as their names were revealed during a student body assembly.
Congratulations to this year’s inductees to the CHS Hall of Fame: Front Row - Molly McCarthy, Julia Frosch, Emma Lacour, Morgan Smith, and Emma Thompson; Back RowBarter, Tucker Adams, Jeremiah Shelby, and Ace London.
Escambia Westgate School Helps with Community Garden
The horticulture class at Escambia Westgate School is learning job skills with the help of the local garden community. Westgate’s horticulture class is a vocational course with four students, ages 18 – 22, with developmental disabilities. They study various topics, including what plants need to grow, identifying parts of a plant, and beneficial wildlife for gardens. They also have a hands-on garden time that includes growing plants from seed/plugs in their greenhouse, maintaining a butterfly garden, pulling weeds, watering plants, and pruning shrubs/plants as needed.
Westgate received a grant through the Grants for Excellence program this year and are expanding their program by purchasing supplies to build a “Garden Shop” in their classroom and creating a larger planting area for their raised bed garden classroom.
The shop will help students learn job skills by participating with storekeeping tasks such as cash tendering, inventory, and customer service. Also, they will build social skills with their peers in the school who come to shop in the classroom.
In the Fall, the students filled trays with soil and planted winter flowers by seed. When the plants grew large enough, they repotted the seedlings into 4-inch pots. When they were ready to plant, teacher Darlene Bonelli reached out to our local County Extension agent, Beth Bolles, to see if the Master Gardeners would be interested in coming to the school for a plant sale. They said yes! On Monday, February 3rd, Westgate held a plant sale at their gazebo. Students were given the opportunity to practice cash tendering on their cash register with customers from the public. They all did a fantastic job and the shoppers were very appreciative, while the students were learning new skills.
Over $100 was raised for classroom horticulture supplies, so the students can grow more plants! Westgate’s Horticulture program hopes to continue holding more community plant sale events with local groups in the future.
Please send school news and photos by the 15th of the month to: editor@greaterpensacolaparents.com.
Community Learning Day at R.C. Lipscomb
R. C. Lipscomb Elementary School hosted a ‘Leader in Me Community Learning Day’ on Thursday, February 13. Students shared their Leadership Portfolios with teachers and administrators from other schools. Student Ambassadors gave tours around the school and discussed their various ‘Leader in Me’ initiatives. Additionally, students discussed the impact ‘Leader in Me’ has had on the school and answered questions from teachers and administrators. Finally, teachers and administrators were able to visit a class and watch as a teacher delivered their ‘Leader in Me’ lesson.
• Most insurances accepted
• Discount to active military families
• Complimentary New Patient Exam
We go above and beyond the already stringent standards, for the safety of our Sta and Patients.
Take Stock in Children Accepting Applications
Escambia County’s Take Stock in Children program is accepting online applications from eligible 6th & 7th grade students until April 14, 2025. Program information, income eligibility requirements, applications, and instructions are available through middle school guidance offices and on the school district website, www.escambiaschools.org/ Page/746.
Take Stock in Children is a statewide pro gram operating locally under the Escambia County Public Schools Foundation, providing “scholarships, mentors & hope” to deserving low-income students.
For more information about the application process, becoming a mentor, or donating toward scholarships, contact Sally Lee, Take Stock in Children Student Services Coordi nator, 850-469-5458, slee@ecsdfl.us.
Brain Integration TherapyAt-home midline therapy to establish the student's midline to create permanent connections among the four learning gates: Reading, Writing, Speech/Memory & Focus/Attention. Only 20 minutes a day!
Right Brain
“Healing” TeachingUse right brain, visual teaching strategies to train your child’s powerful photographic memory. Watch them make leaps in learning in just one school year and boost their confidence. The healing teaching you both need!
Targeted Nutritional PlanDive deeper into the Brain/Gut connection to help your child focus easier and have better retention. Make huge changes in focusing, mood, attitude, meltdowns, memory, APD, Autism and SPD.
Rally Club at Catholic High Close to Fundraising Goal
The student-led Rally Club organization at Pensacola Catholic High School recently finished its latest fundraiser to raise money and awareness to help fight childhood cancer.
With guidance from the Rally Gulf Coast affiliated with the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital and their Club Moderator, Keith Haynes, who also serves as the CHS Communications Director, the students sold 760 tickets for a raffle “basket”/Yeti cooler valued at over $1,700 and filled with all sorts of goodies that were 100% donated by local businesses and friends of Catholic High. Ticket sales culminated at the recent CHS Boys Basketball “Goldstrong Game” game against Milton High School. Helene Donovan was the lucky winner of the Yeti cooler, but all ticket purchasers were winners to the Rally Club as they contributed to the $3,126 raised. With the $1,000 raised during the Fall “Goldstrong Game” added to their total, the Rally Club is very close to their year-end goal of $5,000. Stay tuned for more details as they get poised for another Spring “Goldstrong Game” to bring in the remainder of funds for their worthy cause against childhood cancer.
Catholic High Helps the ‘Night to Shine’
For the second year, Pensacola Catholic High School students participated in the Tim Tebow Foundation’s ‘Night to Shine’ Prom held on February 7. Students from our sister school, Mother Clelia Morning Star High School, also attended and everyone had a fantastic time.
MSP Mardi Gras Parade
MSP brought the Mardi Gras spirit to life with a festive parade led by our amazing music teacher, Fred Domulot. Our students joyfully marched, danced, and played instruments, enthusiastically embracing this lively tradition. Adding to the excitement, The Village Brass joined forces with our very own MSP Band, filling the air with music and energy. It was a celebration to remember, bringing our school community together in the true spirit of Mardi Gras.
St. Paul Catholic School
Blessed Buddies
St. Paul students love spending time with their Blessed Buddies, a program that partners each younger student with an older one throughout the year. Together, “buddies” prayed a school-wide rosary and spent time in adoration. Our older students guided our youngest through the prayer.
Dr. Elias Gonzalez Visits
Pensacola Christian Academy
Pensacola Christian Academy (PCA) recently welcomed Dr. Elias Gonzales, a dentist at Pensacola Family Dental Associates and PCA alumnus, to speak to the first-grade students about the importance of dental health. The exciting and interactive presentation taught students valuable lessons about taking care of their teeth.
Dr. Gonzales covered a variety of topics, including how many teeth children have, the proper amount of time to brush their teeth, and how often to visit the dentist. He also introduced the students to the concept of fluoride and shared helpful tips on how to prevent plaque buildup and cavities. The presentation was both informative and fun, capturing the students’ attention and making learning about oral hygiene an enjoyable experience.
In addition to gaining important knowledge about dental care, each student received a brand-new toothbrush. It is always great to see PCA alumni investing in the community and our future graduates.
CLA Middle School Retreat at Alabama 4-H Center
Creative Learning Academy’s annual Middle School Retreat provided students with an unforgettable educational adventure. Held from March 5th to March 7th at the Alabama 4-H Center in Columbiana, Alabama, this three-day, two-night experience was packed with opportunities for learning, team-building, leadership development, and outdoor exploration. Students in grades 5-8 participated in this retreat, which blended fun with hands-on education in an awesome natural setting. Alabama’s 4-H Center featured an exciting lineup of activities that focused on teamwork, critical thinking, and curiosity. One of the highlights was the Herpetology Exploration, where students had the chance to interact with reptiles and amphibians native to Alabama while learning about their habitats and behaviors. Another standout activity was the Amazing Race Challenge, a team-based competition that tested problem-solving skills and fostered collaboration. Students also participated in canoeing, hiking, and survival-themed challenges, making every moment an opportunity for learning and adventure. Evenings at the retreat were just as fun as the daytime activities. Students gathered around campfires to make s’mores and participate in events like
“skits and bits,” which was fun, light and hilarious. These moments allowed students to bond with their classmates and the 4-H counselors. CLA’s annual Middle School Retreat exemplifies the school’s commitment to nurturing experiential learning. By stepping outside the classroom, students not only gained new knowledge but also strengthened their interpersonal skills and strengthened peer relationships. This unique outing is a shining example of how CLA inspires its students to learn, lead, and become the creative problem solvers of the future
Please send school news and photos by the 15th of the month to: editor@greaterpensacolaparents.com.
Escambia School’s National Day of Unplugging
On Friday, March 7, ECPS celebrated National Day of unplugging. Students, teachers, staff, and administrators took the day to put down phones, tablets, and other technology and spend some time hands-on, focusing on a day of personal interactions.
Hellen Caro students participated in National Unplug Day by replacing technology based learning activities for reading outside, reader’s theatre, STEM projects, gardening, science experiments, learning games and more.
At Tate High School, students took part in:
Creative Writing - Different writing prompts for students/teachers to choose from.
Utilize biography books to create pennants for Women’s History Month
Building Challenges - Lincoln Logs, Magnetic Tiles, LEGO and other items
Academic JENGA - Utilize JENGA to work on academic vocab found in FSA question stems
Famous Quotes Reflection - Analyze Famous Quotes.
At Global Learning Academy, students unplugged and enjoyed mindful painting by candlelight.
At West Pensacola Elementary, teachers and students took advantage of a unique opportunity to learn core content and skills through hands-on projects for an entire day. From PreK learning about compound words and then creating a mixture (ice cream) to 6th grade creating quadrants throughout the campus to explore various living organisms and create conjectures about the similarities and differences, it was truly a day to remember. First graders were treated to a field trip up to Northview High School where fellow ECPS students taught them about various aspects of agriscience. Every single student enjoyed the day and the engagement was through the roof. West Pensacola looks forward to continuing to implement more hands-on activities throughout the school year.
West Florida High School Business Education classes unplugged today by playing games related to topics and lessons covered in our classes. In Digital Information Technology (DIT) classes, our students learned how to play classic board games, such as Battleship, Reversi, and Connect 4, which they will create using Microsoft Excel to practice formatting cells. In the Academy of Information Technology classes and the Foundation of Web Design classes, students played Survivor-style elimination and hue-identifying games related to their respective course topics.
At A.K. Suter, Mrs. Chapin’s 5th Grade Science classes working in the garden, and Mrs. Barrett’s 2nd graders enjoying some D.E.A.R. time while “unplugged” on Friday.
Pensacola High Welding Instructor Inspires Students
Pensacola High School welding instructor Joseph Moss is one of those teachers who inspires his students. He is passionate about his welding instruction, but more so passionate about helping his students learn. He worked as a welder for several major corporations and left a six-figure job to become a teacher and has never regretted his decision to turn to teaching for what he’s gotten from his students.
thank you for sharing your incredible talents with us.
St. Paul Catholic School Student Talent Show
As part of St. Paul’s Catholic Schools Week fun, we held an amazing student talent show! Bravo to our super amazing Spartans and
Beulah Students Create Valentines for Nursing Home Residents
The agricultural students and FFA members at Beulah Middle School made Valentine’s Day a little happier for residents of two different nursing homes. They created 200 floral arrangements to share with the nursing home residents. Not only did they learn to share love, but they also learned about the floriculture industry.
Ferry Pass Students Share at School Board Meeting
At a recent School Board meeting, and to celebrate Black History Month, three Ferry Pass Elementary students educated those in attendance about the incredible career and local impact of Gen. Daniel “Chappie” James. These amazing students, Lucy Grise, Myla Webster, and Lillian Coates, focused their research on “Gen. Daniel ‘Chappie’ James Jr. - Rights and Responsibilities.” Their exhibit shared the obstacles faced and accomplishments achieved by Chappie James, which have made him a local hero.
The students worked during the school day and visited the UWF library on a Saturday to complete their research. They presented their project at this year’s Escambia County History Fair. Their proud teacher, Mark Goolsby, was also in attendance.
Spring Games: A Celebration of Inclusion and Community
Escambia County Public Schools Special Olympics
The 17th annual Special Olympics Spring Games took place at Tate High School, bringing together approximately 450 student athletes and nearly 650 student volunteers. With 34 schools from the Escambia County district participating, the event was a true celebration of unity and inclusion.
The day kicked off with the Special Olympics Torch Relay around Carl Madison Field at Pete Gindl Stadium, symbolizing the spirit of the Games. Tate senior Macy Jensen’s heartfelt rendition of the National Anthem set the tone for an event filled with joy, camaraderie, and inspiring moments.
For the athletes, this event is more than just a competition—it’s an opportunity to showcase their abilities, gain confidence, and feel a sense of accomplishment. For the volunteers, it’s a chance to make meaningful connections and offer support in a way that truly impacts the lives of others.
The Special Olympics Spring Games at Tate High School are a reminder of the power of inclusion and the positive impact of community involvement. It’s a day that celebrates not only athletic achievement but the strength of character and the bonds of friendship that make our schools stronger.
Westgate Center Mardi Gras Parade
A great time was had by all at Escambia Westgate Center’s Annual Mardi Gras Parade. Westgate and ECPS would like to express our sincerest gratitude to all of the community agencies and organizations who continue to show up each year to make this event such a tremendous success. It’s humbling to see the outpouring of love and kindness bestowed on these wonderful students and Westgate’s hard-working staff each year.
MSP Results for Northwest Florida MatchCounts Competition
MathCounts is an after-school club offered to our 6th-8th grade MSP students. During the Northwest Florida MathCounts competition, their skills were put to the test, and they delivered incredible results. We’re thrilled to share that two of our 8th graders placed 2nd and 4th in the individual com
St. Paul School Spirit
Catholic Schools Week was one for the books at St. Paul Catholic School this year. A favorite is always the day spent celebrating the students! We kicked off the morning with bingo, held prize drawings throughout the day, and played a school-wide game of Four Corners Elimination, enjoyed a miniconcert from our very own Masked Singers, then ended the day with the Hanley Cup, a spirited volleyball game between 8th graders and the faculty.
“We’re a family that loves adventure and making unforgettable memories together,” shared Lakesha Davis. “Traveling is a big part of our lives, and we have a bucket list full of places to explore.”
Lakesha and her husband Hammer married in 2014. Together they have seven children —
Jayla Williams (21), who tragically passed away in 2024; Malachi Williams (18); Jebran Davis (11), Daylen Davis (9); Kylie Davis (7); McKinley Davis (5) and Karter Davis (2).
“If there’s one thing that truly brings us joy, it’s Disney! We’re a Disney-loving family through and through,” said Lakesha. “Orlando is one of our favorite destinations, and we’ve stayed in many of the surrounding cities, but nothing compares to the magic of Disney World. From park hopping between all four parks to experiencing our favorite rides and attractions, every trip is a dream come true.”
Lakesha went on to explain that family time is the most important time for her and Hammer. Whether they are enjoying the beach, watching movies, trying new restaurants, jamming music, playing games, or having fun outdoors, the family values their time together above anything else.
“This season of our lives has been incredibly difficult. Last April, we lost our oldest daughter, Jayla, to a fentanyl overdose at just 21 years old. Our entire world turned upside
down,” Lakesha shared. “Despite the sorrow, we find joy in watching our children grow, learn, and embrace life. Family time has become even more sacred—every shared moment, every laugh, every experience carries deeper meaning.”
The family prioritizes dinner together nightly. They may decide to eat out on busy school nights, but Lakesha says that being at home in the kitchen is where the heart of their family lives.
“We enjoy making homemade pizzas, experimenting with new recipes, and finding creative ways to bring everyone into the kitchen,” Lakesha shared. “Dad takes the lead on cooking, but we often join in as a family, turning mealtime into a fun and memorable experience. As for dessert, that’s where I come in! I love to bake, and the kids always look forward to a homemade sweet treat after dinner.”
This Salmon Tuscan Pasta is a favorite meal for the family. Lakesha describes it as an elevated dish that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. She likes to serve it with a salad and garlic bread.
Salmon Tuscan Pasta
Ingredients:
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
Directions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the salmon with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, sauté for 1-2 minutes. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Add spinach and cherry tomatoes, cooking for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
For the Pasta:
• 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 individual salmon filets; or sub 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or 1 lb shrimp
• ½ tsp each salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
For the Sauce:
• 2 tbsp butter
Step 4: Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. Plate for each serving. Place a salmon on each serving. Garnish with basil, extra Parmesan, and red pepper flakes and/or bacon bits (if desired).
Gabriele has been married to her husband Daniel for 17 years. Together they have three incredible children – two boys, ages 16 and nine, and a sweet girl who will be two in August.
Gabriele is a full-time Sales Director for Mary Kay Cosmetics. When she isn’t spending time with family or building her business, she supports her husband who is the Lead Pastor and Planter of Forward Church in Gulf Shores.
Few things are more important to parents than having their kids get along well together. Nevertheless, sibling rivalry is a fact of life for many families. As we approach Mother’s Day this year, let’s consider what you can do and say to reduce the amount of tension and inspire great sibling relationships. Here’s what the experts suggest:
Talk to your kids about conflict triggers
The first and most important thing is to identify what triggers conflict among your kids. “Once you and your kids know the triggers,” says Dr. Gene Beresin, a child psychiatrist and professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, “you can plan ways to nip conflict in the bud.” Dr. Beresin advises parents to sit down with their kids and talk to them about their relationships with their siblings and their role in the family more generally: “Talk about their siblings – how they feel about them, how they feel they compare, how they process what’s going on in the family, what siblings do to trigger them.”
Observe when and why conflicts flare up
Identify possible triggers by observing patterns of when and why conflicts tend to flare up. Dr. Sydney Ryckman, a pediatrician, suggests that parents pay attention to things such as the time of day that conflicts usually occur: “Do they happen when your kids are hungry before meals, before bedtime when everyone is tired and exhausted after a long day?” Karen Stephens, the author of The Child Care Professional, adds that parents should pay attention to why their kids experience conflict: “Are the children jockeying for family position? Are they trying to get adult attention or distract them? Are they fighting over a particular toy, friend, or relative?”
Hold regular family meetings
Experts agree that one of the best venues for discussing conflict triggers is so-called “family meetings.” They suggest that families get together on a weekly basis to consider the most common conflict triggers
and what they can do to deal with them. Family meetings, Dr. Ryckman says, “allows the family to share their opinions, seek understanding, and find resolution to problems.” To make the meetings as productive as possible, Dr. Ryckman suggests that parents establish certain rules, including that everyone gets an opportunity to talk, one person talks at a time and doesn’t get interrupted, and that everyone has to listen without putting anyone else down. He also suggests that families set an agenda, determine priority issues, generate possible solutions, decide on the best one, and make explicit plans to implement it.
Combine family meeting with fun
While it’s best to conduct family meetings in an organized manner, they don’t have to be serious affairs at the dining room table. Ashley Patek, a certified parenting coach, suggests that parents combine them with fun family activities like watching a movie or going on a hike. What matters, Ms. Patek says, is that they represent “a safe place for all members of the family to share feelings and actively listen to one another.”
Engage in fun family activities
Don’t underestimate the importance of fun family activities in reducing sibling conflict. “Whether you’re watching a movie, throwing a ball, or playing a board game,” says Dr. Jennifer Shroff Pendley, a well-known child psychologist, ”you’re establishing a peaceful way for your kids to spend time together and relate to each other. This can help ease tensions between them and also
good experiences together,” he notes, “it acts as a buffer when they come into conflict. It’s easier to work it out with someone you share warm memories with.”
Spend alone-time with each kid
It’s also important for your kids to spend some alone-time with you, even if you’re very busy and only have a few minutes available here and there. It’s not the amount of time that matters but the act of taking the time to tend to their specific needs. “Children are less prone to engaging in conflict,” says Dr. Malini Saba, another well-known child psychologist, “if they believe their uniqueness is valued.” And you can demonstrate that uniqueness, Dr. Saba says, “by spending time with them individually.”
Don’t be afraid of sibling conflicts
Finally, remember that sibling conflicts are a natural part of family life and if handled properly, can teach your kids important skills. As kids cope with conflicts, Dr. Pendley says, they learn skills “like how to value another person’s perspective, how to compromise and negotiate, and how to control aggressive impulses.”
Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences, and Disorders at The City University of New York –Brooklyn College.
Tanni
Grading Family Movies: Streaming, Digital Rentals, and Theatrical Releases
Rule Breakers
The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie
Night of the Zoopocalypse
A Sloth Story
Theaters
The first female tech entrepreneur in the history of Afghanistan, Roya is determined to help other women find the opportunities available in the world of technology. So she starts the country’s first female robotics club – and aims high, fighting protective fathers, cultural misogyny, national stereotypes, and bureaucratic roadblocks to take the girls to international competitions. This is a touching story that celebrates courage, unity, persistence, dignity, ambition, and the power of education It’s a fantastic choice for anyone who wants an uplifting movie night.
Q. Our daughter is in high school, and she has a car and a part-time job nights and weekends. We’ve worked with her on saving, spending and giving, but should a teenager have an emergency fund, too? If so, how much do you recommended them setting aside?
A. This is a great question! I’m glad to know you’re working with your daugther and teaching him wise financial habits. I always recommend an emergency fund of three to six months of expenses for adults, and I think that’s a fair expectation for teens, as well. He won’t need as big an
emergency fund as a married couple with kids if his expenses consist only of those connected to his car and social life. So, I’d suggest her saving up three months’ worth of what it takes to operate the car—gas, insurance and maintenance. I think those are fair financial responsibilities for a responsible teen in his situation.
Your Income is the Key
Q. I have $100,000 in student loan debt. Since the amount is so large, is there a special place in your Baby Steps plan for it?
A. I hope you have a nice, large income with which to fight that big pile of student
loan debt. I’ve seen even worse situations, though. I’ve talked to people who went $200,000 into debt for a four-year degree in a field where they’ll make $45,000. Yes, that kind of thinking and behavior is out there, and it’s ridiculous.
The fact that it’s a large amount of student loan debt doesn’t change anything. Baby Step 2 is where you pay off all debt except for your home. So, don’t let this student loan debt hang around for years and years. You’ve got to get focused and intense about getting control of your money. That means living on a strict, basics-only monthly budget. After that, start throwing every nickel and dime you can scrape together, and save toward paying off those student loans as fast as possible.
Your income is your largest wealthbuilding tool. You can’t save, and plan for the future, when all your money is flying out the door to pay off debt.
Camping is the ultimate in outdoor family fun and is loaded with benefits for parents and kids alike. It provides adventure and unlimited opportunities to experience the great outdoors. It’s also a great way for kids to learn about nature, from plants and animals to the weather and skies. Historical landmarks and different regions offer lessons in history. And parents get a break from daily responsibilities of life and some relaxation. Not to mention, it’s an affordable way for families to vacation.
What’s the best way to camp?
Your family can choose from a variety of camping options. If you love the experience of roughin’ it, pitch a tent, and haul the bare necessities. Tents come in many sizes and styles, some with dividers for separate sleeping quarters. When purchasing a tent, remember capacity doesn’t include luggage space. If you plan to keep belongings in your tent, opt for a larger capacity. Most importantly, don’t forget padding or a blow-up mattress to insulate against the cold, hard ground.
If you like the idea of roughing it, yet want some of the comforts of home, a popup camper is the best of both worlds. The canvas sides and pullout sections of popups are surrounded with screens and give the feeling of sleeping in the fresh outdoors. Pop-ups come in several sizes and often include an icebox or mini refrigerator, heater, air conditioning, portable toilet, shower, kitchen sink, stove, cabinets and storage space, dining table, and other necessities. Some families prefer going in style. Travel trailers and motor homes offer a luxurious nighttime retreat after a day of outdoor fun. The ease of loading and unloading these shelters is great for moving from campsite to campsite, making cross-country
camping less work. Motorhomes and travel trailers often have a full-size kitchen, living room complete with sofa and chairs, and separate bedrooms for comfort and privacy. Don’t overlook the option of a cozy cabin in the woods. Cabin rentals are sometimes found at campgrounds or in national forests at cabin resorts. Cabins range from basic single room shelters containing only beds to completely furnished three or four room units including kitchenettes. When reserving a cabin, ask what is furnished before you go so you’ll arrive prepared while avoiding unnecessary packing. And don’t forget to ask about electricity, lights, and water.
Experienced campers with older children might try a hike-in shelter for a true wilderness experience. Check with state and national parks for shelters that are sometimes set up along extended trails. After a day of hiking, roll out your sleeping bags under one of these small shelters for a dry night’s sleep under the stars.
Camping costs
The cost of travel can make family vacations a rare treat. But the affordability of camping may allow for frequent getaways. Overnight fees range from a free night’s stay at some state park rustic sites (no show-
ers, toilets, electricity, or water) to $50 or more a night at many of the top KOA and Jellystone Camp Park-Resorts. These top of the line campgrounds are loaded with amenities from built-in swimming pools to live entertainment.
State park campgrounds vary from state to state. Still, these are often the best deal for families interested in experiencing all nature has to offer. Fees for overnight accommodations in state parks typically range from $15 to $35. Many state parks have modern facilities including flush toilets, showers, grassy or gravel sites, playgrounds, park stores for firewood and ice, and more. Furthermore, state parks frequently offer miles of wooded hiking or biking trails, natural wonders, historical sites, and much more that may not be found at private camp resorts.
Camping also helps keep other vacation expenses to a minimum. Many families prefer cooking over the campfire to eating out. Additionally, most outdoor camping activities are free or available at minimal cost.
Fun camping activities
Whatever your family’s interests, there is plenty to see and do. Trails offer ample activities such as collecting rocks, leaves,
ACADEMIC CAMPS
or insects, scouting for wildlife, learning about plants and trees, and practicing survival skills, to hiking excursions, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
Lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams offer fishing, swimming, row boating or canoeing, sunbathing, and more.
Wildlife viewing is often a highlight. Look for animals early in the morning or at dusk on dirt roads and trails, in open fields surrounded by woods, and near water. Be patient, walk slowly and quietly, and don’t forget binoculars.
Other activities include nature programs, nature centers and historical sites, flying kites, rollerblading or bicycling on paved trails, and more.
When ready to relax, light a campfire and enjoy reading or storytelling, play cards or board games, watch the sunset, stargaze, and roast marshmallows.
Easy camp foods
There are many ways to cook. You can purchase a gas or liquid-fuel camping stove, or if electricity is available, a crockpot or electric griddle works well. You can also carry a charcoal or small gas grill or cook over an open fire.
Keep meals simple to minimize packing, preparation, and clean up. Easy
choices include: hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken, steak, sandwiches, eggs, bacon, sausage, crock pot meals, sweet corn, baked potatoes, canned foods such as baked beans, tuna, chicken, spaghetti, ravioli, and soup, fresh fruit, vegetables and dip, bagels, English muffins, cereal, fruit juice, and hot cocoa.
On the other hand, if you enjoy cooking and good meals are one of the highlights for your family, then make the most of mealtime. With all the options for cooking, you can easily enjoy a gourmet feast.
Camping tips
Camping is often a learn-as-you-go experience. But the following can alleviate hassles and keep your family safe.
Protect your food from animals and animals from your food by blocking access. Animals can find their way into nearly anything. Raccoons are known to lift lids right off coolers to snatch hot dogs and other treats. A cooler that latches is usually a safe bet. Any food that isn’t tightly contained should be stored in your vehicle overnight.
Poor weather can strike at any time and insect infestations can also make for
a miserable experience. Make additional shelter such as a screen tent or tarps and rope part of your camping gear.
Arrive at your camp destination ahead of the crowd. Every campsite is unique, and early arrival can assure a site that satisfies your needs.
When selecting a site look for proximity to restrooms, the playground, electricity, and water. If you have young children, make sure the site isn’t close to a river or lake. The amount of shade you’ll want will depend on the weather forecast. To avoid mud, a grassy or rock site may be preferred. Also, avoid a site backed up to outhouses, which can smell in the heat and wind.
Know what animals are found in the area and teach your children animal safety. Wild animals usually want to avoid humans as much as we want to avoid them. Still, they can pose risks. In bear country, those accustom to people sometimes get too close and result in injury. Even small animals that feel threatened may attack.
Kimberly Blaker is author of the kid’s book Horoscopes: Reality or Trickery? She also writes a blog, The Young Gma’s Guide to Parenting, at www.theyounggma.com.
CELEBRATE EASTER AT
Art Camp
Creatisphere
- First City
Art Center Art Camp
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1060 North Guillemard St, Pensacola, FL 32501 May 26th-August 8th; open to elementary students and Teens. Ages 5-12 from 9:00am-4:00pm - half day option available on select weeks. Ages 13-18 from 1pm - 4pm. Pottery, Drawing, Sculpture, Collage, 3-D Design, Storytelling, Mixed Media, Painting, Printmaking, Glass, Textiles, Costume Design, Building, and More! Each week of camp is a new experience offering a variety of art mediums, as well as incorporating STEAM, history, world cultures, yoga, and games into the themes. Extended care offered, and scholarships are available! Cost: $175-$280 per week. 850-429-1222 create@firstcityart.org www.firstcityart.org
Pensacola Museum of Art
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407 South Jefferson Street, Pensacola, FL 32502 Summer Art Camp will introduce campers to various artistic mediums, techniques, and forms of expression through the exploration of our exhibition spaces and engaging art projects. Each week, campers will experience hands-on projects for an immersive visual arts experience. Monday-Friday 9am-3:30pm . Extended care is available from 3:30pm - 5:00pm. Dates: June 16 - 20 (Summer Art Intensive for High School students: Grades 9-12), July 14 - 18 (1st - 2nd grade); July 21 - 25 (3rd - 5th grade); July 28Aug. 1 (5th - 8th grade). To view the list of weekly descriptions and grade levels, please visit, www. pensacolamuseum.org. PMA Members $276.50. Regular rate $290. 850-473-7468 https://pensacolamuseum.org/learnengage/summer-camps/
Dance Camp
Barbie’s
Beach Party Dance Camp
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Gull Point Resource Center, 7000 Spanish Trail, Pensacola, FL 32504
July 7-11, 2025. 9am - 12pm. Ages 4-10 years. $80 City Resident/$90 Non-Resident. Campers will learn several dances, make themed craftsand creative costumes, and participate in a mini recital on the last day of camp. Participants must by potty trained - no
disposable training pants allowed. Please bring a small snack and water bottle each day. 850-494-7360 hmatteson@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com/940/Summer-Camps
Disco Neon Dance Party Camp
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Gull Point Resource Center, 7000 Spanish Trail, Pensacola, FL 32504
June 2-6, 2025. 9am - 12pm. Ages 4-10 years. $80 City Resident/$90 Non-Resident. Campers will learn several dances, make themed craftsand creative costumes, and participate in a mini recital on the last day of camp. Participants must by potty trained - no disposable training pants allowed. Please bring a small snack and water bottle each day. 850-494-7360 hmatteson@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com/940/Summer-Camps
Enchanted Fairytale Land Dance Camp
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Gull Point Resource Center, 7000 Spanish Trail, Pensacola, FL 32504
July 14-18, 2025. 9am - 12pm. Ages 4-10 years. $80 City Resident/$90 Non-Resident. Campers will learn several dances, make themed craftsand creative costumes, and participate in a mini recital on the last day of camp. Participants must by potty trained - no disposable training pants allowed. Please bring a small snack and water bottle each day. 850-494-7360 hmatteson@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com/940/Summer-Camps
Five Flags Dance Academy
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8084 N. Davis Highway F-1, Pensacola, FL 32514
Offering Summer Day Camps, Six-week Summer Sessions and Summer Intensives. Summer Day Camps start May 27 and offer dancing, swimming, bowling, arts & crafts and more. 7:30am - 5:30 pm with weekly rates. Six-week Summer Sessions begin June 3rd with options of ballet, tap, jazz, pointe, hip hop, lyrical, musical theatre, acro and baton. Two Summer Intensives and a Ballet Workshop will also be offered. 850-484-0648 www.fiveflagsdanceacademy.com
LaBelle Performing Arts
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8253 Chellie Road, Pensacola FL 32526 4634 Lori Lane Pace, FL 32571
Join us for an exciting summer with Labelle Performing Arts! Visit our website for updates. 850-944-5650 info@labelleperformingarts.com www.labelleperformingarts.com
Mermaids and Pirates
Dance Camp
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Gull Point Resource Center, 7000 Spanish Trail, Pensacola, FL 32504
June 23-27, 2025. 9am - 12pm. Ages 4-10 years. $80 City Resident/$90 Non-Resident. Campers will learn several dances, make themed craftsand creative costumes, and participate in a mini recital on the last day of camp. Participants must by potty trained - no disposable training pants allowed. Please bring a small snack and water bottle each day.
Gull Point Resource Center, 7000 Spanish Trail, Pensacola, FL 32504
July 28-August 1, 2025. 9am - 12pm. Ages 3-6 years. $70 City Resident/$80 Non-Resident. Campers will learn several dances, make themed craftsand creative costumes, and participate in a mini recital on the last day of camp. Participants must by potty trained - no disposable training pants allowed. Please bring a small snack and water bottle each day.
Gull Point Resource Center, 7000 Spanish Trail, Pensacola, FL 32504
July 21-25, 2025. 9am - 12pm. Ages 4-10 years. $80 City Resident/$90 Non-Resident. Campers will learn several dances, make themed craftsand creative costumes, and participate in a mini recital on the last day of camp. Participants must by potty trained - no disposable training pants allowed. Please bring a small snack and water bottle each day.
Pensacola Youth Ballet will hold summer programs June 16 to July 11.Registration has begun and space is limited so that we can give more personal attention to our students.
850-786-9506 www.pensacolayouthballet.com
Prince and Princess Dance Camp
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Gull Point Resource Center, 7000 Spanish Trail, Pensacola, FL 32504
June 9-13, 2025. 9am - 12pm. Ages 4-10 years. $80 City Resident/$90 Non-Resident. Campers will learn several dances, make themed craftsand creative costumes, and participate in a mini recital on the last day of camp. Participants must by potty trained - no disposable training pants allowed. Please bring a small snack and water bottle each day.
Gull Point Resource Center, 7000 Spanish Trail, Pensacola, FL 32504
June 30-July 2, 2025. 9am - 11am. Ages 2.5-5 years. $45 City Resident/$55 Non-Resident. Kids attending this 3-day camp will learn several dances, create themed crafts and costumes, and participate in a mini recital on the last day. Camp activities hold emphasis on the fun and excitement of discovering the world through movement and dance.
Pensacola Cultural Center, 400 S Jefferson Street, Pensacola, FL 32502
Dance with Ballet Pensacola, voted Pensacola Best Dance Studio this summer! Creative Dance Camp – ages 3-5 - June 16-19 / June 23-26 / July 14-17 / July 21-24. Ballerina Camp – ages 5-7- June 16-19 / June 23-26 / July 14-17 / July 21-24. Young Dancer Intensive- ages 7 – 11 - July 14-25. Intermediate/Advanced Intensive – June 2 – July 11
We are offering camps and dance classes so there’s plenty to choose from! 850-748-2383 www.fivestardancecentre.com
La Rita’s Dance Studio
2895 W Scott Street, Pensacola, FL 32505
Dates and times are coming soon. Please feel free to call or visit our website for updates. 850-426-1933 www.laritasdancestudio.com
Mixon Magic Performing Arts
Historic Sacred Heart Hospital, 1010 N. 12th Avenue, Suite #238, Pensacola, FL 32501
Another exciting summer filled with camps and productions is coming soon to Mixon Magic. Visit our website and follow us on socials for updates. 850-221-7438 www.mixonmagic.com
Time to Shine
4375 Woodbine Road, Pace, FL 32571
Art, Dance, and Musical Theater Camps for all ages! Summer program dates: June 23–July 25, 2025. Please visit our website or Facebook page! 850-994-5678 www.timetoshineflorida.com
Day Camp
BE Academy, LLC Preschool
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2800 Wilde Lake Blvd. Pensacola, FL 32526
Summer Day Camp for ages 1 - 5 years. Camp begins Monday, June 2 and ends Friday, July 25 (off on July 4th). Monday - Friday, Operating hours 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 850-972-8202 info@beacademyllc.org www.beacademyllc.org
Berryhill Summer Camp
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5900 Berryhill Road, Milton, FL 32570
Ages 5 - 12 are invited to join us for a super sum mer of Fun! Monday - Friday, 6:15am - 6pm. Out door games, interactive play, field trips, movies, STEM projects, indoor rock wall, talent shows and more! We offer 3 day and 5 day programs. Weekly rates are available. 850-564-1227 berryhillchildcare@gmail.com www.berryhillchildcare.com
Discover Day Camp ad on page 37
Pensacola Christian Academy, 10 Brent Lane, Pensacola, FL 32503
Weekly, June 2-July 25, Monday - Friday 8:00am3:00pm with extended care available until 5:30pm. For those who have just completed 1st-6th grade. Discover Day Camp offers a variety of engaging activities that encourage campers to explore and innovate. Some activities target one or more STEM skills (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and are appropriate to campers’ grade level. 850-378-3708 info@discoverdaycamp.com www.discoverdaycamp.com/Summer25
Kids College
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Pensacola State College, 1000 College Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32504
Kids’ College Camps May 27 through August 8. Enjoy STEAM, sports, art, theater, languages and much more. Half-day and full-day options available. 850-484-1797 ce@pensacolastate.edu www.ce.pensacolastate.edu
Kidz Pointe Summer Camp
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Marcus Pointe Christian School, 6205 North “W” Street, Pensacola, FL 32505
At Kidz Pointe Summer Camp, we strive to provide incredible value as well as the safest, highest, quality Christian Pensacola summer camp. Not only will your children love the variety of field trips and activities, but you’ll love how affordable Kidz Pointe Summer Camp can be. We take pride in knowing that your children will be in a safe, loving, Christian Pensacola summer camp. Open to ages K4-5th grade.
Jewelry Makers-June 16-20 (No camp on 6/19), Young Scientists-June 23-27, Music & MovementJune 30-July 3 (No camp on 7/4), Out of this World-July 7-11, Art & Artists-July 14-18, Science of Water-July 21-25, Session 1 June 2-27 (no camp 6/19), Session 2 June 30 - July 30 (no camp 1/4). Times offered: 8-11:30 $265/week, Each 4-week Session $900, 8-2:30 (11:30 on Fridays) $370/week, Each 4-week session $1300, 7-5:30 $475/week, Each 4-week session $1700. 850-469-8138 www.montessoripensacola.com/ learning-at-msp/summer-camp
5-12 years. $65 City Resident/$75 Non-Resident, per week. Register online beginning April 1. Field trips, swimming and tons of outdoor fun! 850-494-7360 hmatteson@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com/940/Summer-Camps
Play Pensacola
Summer Day Camp
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Woodland Heights Resource Center, 111 Berkley Drive, Pensacola, FL 32503
Navarre Montessori Academy Summer Camp
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Navarre Montessori Academy, 9540 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre, FL 32566 Summer program in June and July (6 months-9 years), Monday-Thursday 7:30am-3:30pm, indoor and outdoor activities, Thursdays-pizza & water day, every afternoon-arts and crafts and more.
850-710-3879 montessorinavarre.com/
Play Pensacola Summer Day Camp
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E.S. Cobb Resource Center, 601 East Mallory Street, Pensacola, FL 32503
June 2 - August 1, 2025. 7:00am-6:00pm. Ages 5-12 years. $65 City Resident/$75 Non-Resident, per week. Register online beginning April 1. Field trips, swimming and tons of outdoor fun! 850-436-5192 rsmith@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com/940/Summer-Camps
Play Pensacola Summer Day Camp
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Fricker Resource Center, 900 North F Street, Pensacola, FL 32501
June 2 - August 1, 2025. 7:00am-6:00pm. Ages 5-12 years. $65 City Resident/$75 Non-Resident, per week. Register online beginning April 1. Field trips, swimming and tons of outdoor fun! 850-436-5195 playpensacola.com/940/Summer-Camps
Play Pensacola Summer Day Camp
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Gull Point Resource Center, 7000 Spanish Trail, Pensacola, FL 32504
June 2 - August 1, 2025. 7:00am-6:00pm. Ages
June 2 - August 1, 2025. 7:00am6:00pm. Ages 5-12 years. $65 City Resident/$75 Non-Resident, per week. Register online beginning April 1. Field trips, swimming and tons of outdoor fun!
Pensacola Christian College, 250 Brent Lane, Pensacola, FL 32503
A summer of exciting, non-stop activity awaits children ages 6–12 and 5-year-olds who have already completed K5. Sports Center Day Camp is an entertaining summer experience filled with swimming, waterslides, ice skating, and more that will make this summer one your child will never forget! 850-378-3708 info@sportsdaycamp.com www.sportsdaycamp.com/Fun25
Summer Day Camp
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6331 Chestnut Street, Milton, FL 32570
Activities include road trips, swimming, arts and crafts, Bible Time, Enrichment Time, Special Events days, inflatables, wading pools, & tons of fun. Enjoy our large air-conditioned gym! Big YAC - Kindergarten graduates through 5th grade graduates, Little YAC Ages 3-4. Registration for summer camp will open May 2025. Watch our Facebook page for updates. 850-623-4671 sports@youthathleticclub.org www.youthathleticclub.org/summer-day-camp
Winshape Camp for Communities Gulf Breeze
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1122 Oriole Beach Road, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563
Have the summer of a lifetime close to home! Join us for full days of fun July 21-25, 2025 , for completed K5 - 5th grade. Monday-Thursday 8:15am5:00pm and Friday 8:15am-12:15pm. Registration begins March 10th. 844-WS-CAMPS (972-2677) https://camps.winshape.org/day-camps/gulf-breeze-fl/
CLA Summer Camp: Enrichment, Sports and Creative Camp
Creative Learning Academy, 3151 Hyde Park Rd, Pensacola, FL 32503
Please visit our website for information on the
different themed sessions offered. June 9-July 11. Closed July 4. Rising 4 year olds-8th grade. 8:30am-5:00pm. Full-day $300/week, Half-day $150/week. Extended Care 3-5pm. $100/week. 850-432-1768 jrussell@creativelearningacademy.org www.creativelearningacademy.org
Coral’s Closet
114 S Palafox Street, Pensacola, FL 32502
Coral’s Closet is excited to host three summer camps for ages 5-10! Themes include Art Camp, Music Camp, and Etiquette Camp. Several dates to choose from. Visit our website for details and registration. 850-480-0251 Info@coralscloset.com https://www.coralscloset.com/summer-camps
Conqueror Day Camp
West Florida Baptist Academy, 5621 Highway 90, Milton, FL Conqueror Day Camp is offering a summer of activities including Bible stories, swimming, movies, reading club, field trips and more. Monday through Friday from 7:00am - 3:00pm. Extended day from 7am - 5:30pm is also available. For registration or information visit our website. 850-623-9306 www.wfbacademy.org/daycamp
Emerald Coast Science Center
31 Memorial Parkway SW, Fort Walton, FL 32548
STEAM Workshops Mondays and Tuesdays in June and July, for ages 5 - 12. Workshop times are from 9:00am - 1:00pm. 850-664-1261 www.ecscience.org
Episcopal Day School, HiltonGreen Campus - PreK3-K
601 North Palafox Street, Pensacola, FL 32501 PreK3-Kindergarten, Half day is 8:00 - 12:00. Full Day is 8:00-4:00 pm. Extended Care available 4:00-5:30pm for an additional cost. 850-466-2060 www.edscc.org/
Episcopal Day School, South Campus1st-8th grade
223 North Palafox Street, Pensacola, FL 32502 1st-8th grade, Half day is 8:00 - 12:00. Full Day is 8:00-4:00 pm. Extended Care available 4:005:30pm for an additional cost.
Falbo’s Family Karate Summer Camp 3031 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563 Summer Camp-Hours: 7:30am (extended hours 6:30am), pick up by 6:00pm. Choose daily or weekly. Enjoy Karate Classes, field trips like swimming, movie, skating, bowling and more. See the Schedule online. Space is limited! Reserve your spot.
First United Methodist Church of Pensacola, in conjunction with The Methodist Children’s Academy, is offering weekly summer camps, May 27 – August 6, 2025 for rising 1st – 6th Graders. 850-432-1434 MCA@FUMCPensacola.com www.fumcpensacola.com/summercamp/ #REGISTRATION
800 Shoreline Drive, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563 Summer day camp experience for boys and girls, upcoming 1st through upcoming 8th grade. The children have the opportunity to play and develop
skills with children of the same age. 850-934-5140 www.gulfbreezeparksandrecreation. com/summer-camp
Camp starts May 30th, Monday - Friday 6:30am6:00pm. Ages 5-12 years. We provide a super fun time with games, activities, and field trips while learning all the awesome benefits of gymnastics. 850-983-0870 ourkarate.com/summer-camps/
KinderWorld
2000 Toni Street, Pensacola, FL 32504
Open Monday-Friday 6:30am-5:45pm. We accept ages 6 weeks-11 years. For summer, our kids have lots of activities. 850-477-7080 www.mykinderworld.com
Miss Kathy’s Day Camp
2275 East Johnson Avenue, Pensacola, FL 32514
We offer a fun filled summer schedule for your child. Weekly field trips, and playing outside on our playgrounds guarantees happy kids this summer. Summer Camp for ages 5-12 years.
850-479-6031 www.misskathys.com
Perdido Bay Baptist Church’s Camp in the City
12600 Sorrento Road, Pensacola, FL 32507
The most incredible week of your child’s summer is here!! Amazing counselors, hilarious skits, thrilling activities and awesome Bible studies...upcoming 1st-6th graders are sure to have a blast! 580-467-8118
PTSDA Karate Summer Camp
2500 Nine Mile Road, Pensacola, FL 32534
Camp runs Monday - Friday 7:30am–3:00pm (extended care available). Ages 6–12 years. Enjoy field trips, sports, crafts and more. 850-478-0680 www.ptsda.com/
Pullum Family YMCA
2379 Pawnee Drive, Navarre, FL 32566
Y Summer Day Camp is a hands-on learning program that introduces youth to a wide range of active play and experiences. Fun daily activities like swimming, computer lab, STEAM projects and weekly field trips.
850-936-0049 www.ymcanwfl.org
Salvation Army Summer Day Camp
The Salvation Army of Pensacola, 1501 North Q Street, Pensacola, FL 32505
Join us for a summer of fun with an around the world theme including field trips, swimming, arts and crafts, recreation, and more. May 29-August 1. 25 spots available. $50-registration fee. Weekly fee-$25 for the 1st child, $15 for the 2nd child, $10 for the 3rd.
850-741-4258 facebook.com/PensacolaSalvationArmy
YMCA Summer Camps on the Gulf at the Vickrey Center - Kidz Fun (K-5) & Teen Leadership (6-8th)
2130 Summit Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32503
Y Summer Day Camp is a hands-on learning program that introduces youth to a wide range of active play and experiences. Fun daily activities like swimming, computer lab, STEAM projects and weekly field trips.
850-478-1222 www.ymcanwfl.org
Gymnastics & Cheer
First City Summer Camp
65 East Olive Road, Pensacola, FL 32514
Camp runs weekly for Kindergarten-5th grade—games, obstacle courses, gymnastics, ninja classes, field trips, arts & crafts, and more.
850-474-1068 www.firstcitygymnastics.com
Gulf Breeze Funplex
3123 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563
Please visit our website or Facebook page for upcoming camp information
850-932-2297 www.the-funplex.com
Gulf Coast Elite Gymnastics
1844 Cowen Road, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563
Join us for a summer of fun! Check our website or call for questions.
850-934-3990 gulfcoastelitegym.com
Horseback Riding
Riverview Camp for Girls
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757 County Road 614, Mentone, AL 35984
2025 Camps run from June 1-July 25. An all-girls overnight camp with short and long-term sessions for girls ages 6-16. Horseback riding, swimming, nature trails, arts and crafts, and much more! Also offering a weekend retreat for mother-daughter adventures on April 26-27, 2025. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
Camps consist of feeding horses, catching horses, saddling, grooming, riding and cleaning-the full experience of the work and fun it takes to care for horses (ages 8+).
850-324-2477 www.thehayesranch.com
Iron Horse Stables
11 Eden Lane, Cantonment, FL 32533
Learn safety, how horses are fed, their breeds and colors, grooming and saddling skills, clean a stall, and of course RIDING! May 27-30, June 2-6, June 9-13, Games camp-June 16-20, Adventure daysJune 30, July 1-2, Overnight camp-June 23-27, English Camp-July 7-11, we also have specialty camps. 850-682-0954 www.iron-horse-stables.com/camps
Valley View Equestrian Camp for Girls
606 Valley View Ranch Rd, Cloudland, GA 30731
One, two or three-week sessions June 8 – July 25, 2025. Overnight camps for girls, ages 8-17 years. English, Western, Barrels, Vaulting, and Trails. Beginner and Advanced riders. CHA instructors. 706-862-2231 www.valleyviewranch.com
Music & Theater
Kidtopia - Kindermusik
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Various locations
Our music and movement classes provide research-based activities that stimulate your child’s growing mind and body. Find out more about our classes for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and big kids!
850-520-7144 or 850-520-7166 www.kidtopia.kindermusik.com
Overture Opera Camp by Pensacola Opera
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75 South Tarragona Street, Pensacola, FL 32502
See yourself on stage at Overture Opera Camp. No prior vocal or stage experience required. Over the course of a week, children will work with experienced theatre professionals, musicians, and music educators to put together their own unique opera production! From creating sets and costumes, to learning their own roles, campers will take part in all aspects of creating an exciting performance. In addition to the production, sessions will also be hosted on topics such as: Stage movement, Dance, Vocal warmups & technique, Music reading & theory. Get hands-on, behind the scenes experience learning what goes into putting together an opera and being a performer. Plus, it’ll be tons of fun! 850-433-6737 cody@pensacolaopera.com www.pensacolaopera.com
Pensacola Children’s Chorus
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46 East Chase Street, Pensacola, FL 32502
Sing in the Summer with Pensacola Children’s Chorus’ weekly performing arts camps! Open to young performers in grades 1-12, your aspiring star will feel right at home on stage with PCC. Multi-week discounts & scholarships available! Limited Availability. Early-bird pricing ends April 15. Come sing with PCC. 850-434-7760 programs@pensacolasings.org www.pensacolasings.org
Dixon After Hours
Dixon School of Arts & Sciences, 1201 N. H. Street, Pensacola, FL Welcoming students ages 6-9 for half day and ages 10-18 for a full day
performing arts camp. Campers will participate in a Broadway style production . Students must be a resident of Escambia County. 850-435-0511 www.dixonDAH.com
Little Prodigies Summer Camp
1308 W 9 Mile Rd, Pensacola, FL 32534
Ages 2 to 7. Courses offered in music, art, drama, dance, and gymnastics in a fun, safe environment between 7:30am and 4:30pm. 850-332-6462 dreamteam@prodigiesonline.com www.prodigiesonline.com
Neighborhood Children’s Theatre
2800 Wilde Lake Blvd, Pensacola, FL 32526
Join us for two weeks of summer theatre camps, UNDERCOVER! June 9-20. The game’s afoot for children ages 4-17 as they unmask mysterious musicals, uncover puzzling plots, and unshroud some Shakespeare. Best of the Coast runner up BEST SUMMER CAMP three years in a row! 857-220-8589 neighborhoodchildrenstheatre.com/
Pensacola Little Theatre
400 South Jefferson Street, Pensacola, FL 32502
Campers at PLT can look forward to producing a special production this summer along with musical theatre and song dance camps, Improv camp, Stage Sprouts (ages 4-7) and more. 850-432-2042 education@pensacolalittletheatre.com www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/summer-camps-2025
Summer Music Jam
Olive Baptist Church, 1836 E Olive Rd, Pensacola, FL 32514
Summer Music JAM is back with loads of opportunity to deepen your understanding of worship and sharpen your skills in the creative arts. July 7-11, 2025. 850-476-1932 https://olivebaptist.org/events
W Florida Home Education Music Assoc.
First Baptist Church Pensacola, 500 N Palafox St, Pensacola, FL 32501
Summer Music Camp - July 21-25
850-777-8442 (text for info) facebook.com/wfhema/ www.homeschoolbandandstrings.com
Overnight Camp
Camp O’ the Pines
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10031 Hwy 29 North, Molino, FL 32577
Experience Pensacola’s premier summer camp. You’ll enjoy zip lines, swimming, archery, pingpong, tetherball, canoeing, paddleboats, water slides, crafts, chapel and other exciting activities! Overnight Camp for Boys & Girls (Ages 8–12). June 15 - 20, June 22 - 27, June 29 - July 4, July 6 - 11, July 13 - 18. 850-898-2170 Info@CampOPines.com www.campopines.com
Dauphin Island Sea LabSummer Overnight Camps
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Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 101 Bienville Boulevard, Dauphin Island, AL 36528
Barrier Island Explorer: Rising 5th-6th grades June 8-11 or June 22-25; Bay Voyager: Rising Grades: 9th-12th grades June 8-13 or July 20-25; Gulf Island Journey: Rising Grades: 7th-9th graders June 1-6, June 15-20, or July 13-18; Ocean STEM: For rising 7th-8th graders, July 6-9. Registration/camp specifics are available online. 251-861-2141 DHPSummer@disl.edu www.disl.edu/dhp/summer-camps
Dauphin Island Sea Residential Marine Science Class
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Dauphin Island Sea Lab , 101 Bienville Boulevard, Dauphin Island, AL 36528
June 22 - July 18. The Residential Marine Science Class is a 4-week academic class that introduces high school students to the field of marine science. Students live on the DISL campus and gain a better understanding and appreciation of the various disciplines in marine biology and oceanography. 251-861-2141 DHPSummer@disl.edu www.disl.edu/dhp/summer-camps
Riverview Camp for Girls
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757 County Road 614, Mentone, AL 35984
2025 Camps run from June 1-July 25. An all-girls overnight camp with short and long-term sessions for girls ages 6-16. Horseback riding, swimming, nature trails, arts and crafts, and much more! Also offering a weekend retreat for mother-daughter adventures on April 26-27, 2025. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. 256-634-4043 info@riverviewcamp.com www.riverviewcamp.com
Aviation Challenge Camp
One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL 35805
We offer space, aviation and robotics camps to children between the ages of 9 to 18. Visit our website for session options, dates and registration. 800-637-7223 www.spacecamp.com/aviation
Camp ASCCA
5278 Camp Ascca Dr, Jacksons Gap, AL 36861 Camp ASCCA offers campers a wide variety of traditional recreational and educational activities
with a unique design for accessibility. Summer sessions begin June 15, 2025. 256-825-9226 info@campascca.org www.campascca.org
Camp Beckwith 10400 Beckwith Lane, Fairhope, AL 36532
Join us for the Best Week Ever at Beckwith, packed with sailing, swimming, arts & crafts, zip-lining, and so much more! Visit our website for information about dates and rates. 251-928-7844 www.beckwithal.com
For rising 1st through rising 11th graders—two for boys and two for girls. We create an atmosphere where children can be themselves without the distractions of technology and the outside world. 615-799-0410 campmarymount.com
Camp Seale Harris
Camp Seale Harris is for kids & teens with diabetes and their family members. Camps & programs are available in several cities. 205-402-0415 campsealeharris.org
Camp Walkabout
171 Baylor School Road, Chattanooga, TN 37405
From hiking and paddling to caving and climbing, The Walkabout Experience brings a new adventure every day. Ages 8-16. 423-757-2515 baylorschool.org
Camp Woodmont
381 Moonlight Drive, Cloudland, GA 30731
ACA accredited camp-loads of activities: archery, climbing, horseback riding, canoeing, crafts, games and more! 1 & 2 week sessions for boys & girls 6 to 15. Season: June 1-July 25. 423-472-6070 www.campwoodmont.com
Scout BSA Camp
Spanish Trail Scout Reservation, 315 Pat Covell Road, Defuniak Springs, FL 32433
Since 1961, 1200 acres & 40-acre lake, great traditional programs and newly added high adventure trips for boys and girls, Offering a fun-filled week of outdoor scouting experiences. Week 1: June 8-14, 2025, Week 2: June 15-21, 2025. 850-476-6336 www.stsr-gcc.org
Teen Extreme Youth Camp Pensacola Christian College, 250 Brent Lane, Pensacola, FL 32503
The days and evenings will be packed with extreme competitions and activities. You will experience uplifting messages and create new friendships on the campus of Pensacola Christian College in Pensacola, FL. 850-969-1555 www.teenextremecamp.com
Sports Camp
Challenger International Soccer Camp
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Roger Scott Athletic Complex, 2130 Summit Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32503
June 2 – June 6 and July 14 – July 18, 2025. Monday – Friday. Times vary by age group. Ages: 3-14years. $80-$220. This program is brought to you by Play Pensacola! Challenger Sports, the leading soccer camp company in North America, has combined the most popular elements of British Soccer and TetraBrazil, integrating them into a collection of the most effective soccer practices used by youth teams around the world.
June 2-6, June 16-20, July 14-18, 2025. Monday - Friday 9:00am-12:30pm. Ages: 7-14 years. $115 per session. This program is brought to you by Play Pensacola! The Chip Boes Championship Basketball Camp is a five-day clinic with strong emphasis on individual skill development led by highly successful former high school and college coach and five-time “Coach of the Year” award winner Chip Boes. Each participant receives a basketball and a camp shirt. Participants will enjoy an ice cream party, group and individual competitions, league and tournament play and more!
850-968-9299 - For calls and voice message 850-449-9958 – For texting chipboes@gmail.com www.chipboes.blogspot.com
Girls Summer Volleyball Camp
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Bear Levin Studer Family YMCA, 165 East Intendencia Street, Pensacola, FL 32501
June 16 – June 20 and July 21 – July 25, 2025. Monday - Friday 9:00am-12:00pm. Ages 9-14 years. $100. Onsite registration will not be available. Mail registration to Vickrey Resource Center, 2130 Summit Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32503. Please make checks payable to Pati Gandolfo. This program is brought to you by Play Pensacola! Don’t miss this great camp conducted by PSC Head Volleyball Coach, Pati Gandolfo. 850-341-6035 jbvbcamps@gmail.com www.cityofpensacola.com/877/Volleyball
Gospel Projects Youth Athletic
Club Aquatics
Program
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6331 Chestnut Street, Milton, FL 32570
GPYAC Aquatics program offers group swim lessons and team readiness programs. Lessons are taught by Certified Water Safety Instructors held at GPYAC swimming pool. Must be 4 years old+ at the time of lessons. GPYAC partners with the Greater Pensacola Aquatics Program and participates in their sponsored competitions for ages six through high school. Find us on Facebook.com/ Gospel Projects Youth Athletic Club 850-623-4671 sports@youthathleticclub.org www.youthathleticclub.org
NEXT Summer Camps: Sports Camps for Teens
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Pensacola Christian College, 250 Brent Lane, Pensacola, FL 32503
Build new friendships, learn from teachers and coaches who love what they do, and share experiences only athletes get. Prepare to jump into an unforgettable summer at the camp of your choice on Pensacola Christian College’s campus. Sports Camps include: Guys Soccer, Guys and Girls Basketball, and Girls Volleyball. 850-969-1690 info@nextsummercamps.com www.nextsummercamps.com/Register25
Ace Volleyball Camps
University of West Florida, Pensacola, FL 32514
Variety of Volleyball camps that will improve the player’s individual and team skills. Youth campsMay 26, June 22, July 13; College prep camp-May 5: Elite camp-July 14-15, Pass and defense campJuly 16, Setter camp-July 16, Hitting camp-July 16, www.acevolleyballcamps.com
BOUNCE Basketball
University of West Florida Field House, 11000 University Parkway, Pensacola, FL 32514
Offering Basketball Day Camps on June 23-26 & July 21-24, Elite Camp on August 16, Team Camp on June 9-10 & June 16-17, and special sessions throughout the year. www. BOUNCEBasketball.org
Breakthrough Basketball Camps
Pensacola State College - Hartsell Arena, 1000 College Blvd, Pensacola, FL 32504
Essential Youth Skills & Decision Making Basketball Camp-July 9-11, 2025 (boys and girls from 3rd grade-8th grade); Shooting & Ball Handling Basketball Camp-July 16-18, 2025 (boys and girls from 7th grade-12th grade)
866-846-7892 www.breakthroughbasketball.com
i9 Sports Basketball and Baseball Camps Wilde Lake Church, 22800 Wilde Lake Blvd, Pensacola, FL 32526
i9 Sports camps for children, ages 7-12. Our camps offer a skill developing environment focused on building and improving the fundamental skills and game knowledge of the sport. Basketball Camps: Dates: 6/23-6/26 and 7/21-7/24, Time: 9am-12pm. Registration deadline: June camp-6/20 and July camp-7/18. Volleyball Camps: Dates: 6/9 - 6/12 and 7/14 - 7/17, Time: 5:30pm8pm. Registration deadline: June camp-6/6 and July camp-7/11
Pensacola Catholic High Sports Camps Catholic High Campus, 3043 West Scott Street, Pensacola, FL 32505
Pensacola Catholic High School offers summer
camp programs in a wide variety of sports for boys and girls in age groups from 5 to 14. 850-436-6400 x112 pensacolachs.org/summercamps
Pensacola Futbol Cllub
At Pensacola FC we strive to have the best camps there are with professional coaches and setups. Our camps are designed for players who are wanting to gain more experience and improve their skills no matter their level of play. All camps have a strong emphasis on small sided games to promote individual player confidence. 850-477-7842 www.pensacolafutbolclub.com/ summer-camps
Pins and Pals Summer Camp - It’s never too early to get the kids rolling! Pins & Pals Youth Bowling Camp-Starts June 2025, Includes a custom-fitted bowling ball, lunch & lessons! Spots fill up fast –reserve yours today!
850-477-2300 www.cordovalanes.com
West Florida Soccer Camps
University of West Floridda, 11000 University Parkway, Pensacola, FL 32514
The University of West Florida soccer coaches offer soccer camps and College ID camps. We have two objectives for every participant; improve and have fun.
westfloridasoccer.totalcamps.com/Content/41213
West Florida Soccer Club Camps
3360 Joppa Rd, Milton, FL 32571
We host a series of Summer camps to help players reach their full potential. Each camp is designed to focus on a specific skillsets crucial to the game: Fast Foot Skills, Shooting and Finishing, and Advanced Technical and Tactical Skills. https://www.westfloridasoccerclub.com/camps
Wrestling Camp
Gulf Breeze, FL 32563
Camp: June 6-8, 2025-Gulf Breeze High School-3 days of wrestling action with our top-tier lineup of clinicians.
850-341-9450 www.welltrainedelite.com/camps
STEM, Education, & Miscellaneous
Code Ninjas
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3 W. Nine Mile Road, Pensacola, FL 32534
Our camps offer an immersive environment for children to explore and develop new skills, gain confidence, and have fun with friends. From coding and game building to STEM and robotics-it’s an unforgettable experience! Exciting camps include App Development, Cybersecurity, Minecraft, Roblox, AI, 3D Printing, and more! Half-day camps or stay all day by enrolling in both morning and afternoon camps. Ages 5-14. 850-889-8636 pensacolafl@codeninjas.com www.codeninjas.com/fl-pensacola
NEXT Summer Camps: Academic Camps for Teens
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Pensacola Christian College, 250 Brent Lane, Pensacola, FL 32503
Build new friendships, learn from teachers and coaches who love what they do. Sharing experiences you won’t find at home. Get ready to jump into an unforgettable summer at the camp of your choice on Pensacola Christian College’s campus.
Academic Camps include: Computer Science, Criminal Justice, Engineering and Science, History and Political Science, Nursing, Pre-Med, Writing, Art, Drama, and Music. 850-969-1690 info@nextsummercamps.com www.nextsummercamps.com/Register25
Pensacola MESS Hall
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418 E Wright Street, Pensacola, FL Ignite scientific curiosity! May 27-August 1, 2024. Offering weeklong, half day & full day exploration of topics in science. Camps are for students entering grades 1-6 in Fall 2025. Camp themes and registration are available online!
1010 N 12th Avenue #122 , Pensacola, FL 32501 Educational consulting, testing, and academic therapy for language based learning disabilities such as dyslexia.
Lovelock Healing Arts, 213 South Baylen Street, Pensacola, FL 32502
Join Rising Minds Learning and Lovelock Healing Arts this summer for an enriching, small-group camp. Daily Activities: Engaging reading and math
enrichment, rotating yoga and music sessions led by specialized instructors, hands-on science experiments, creative take-home crafts. Tuition: $250 per week. Step Up For Students scholarships accepted. Discounts available for siblings and multi-week enrollments. Space is limited to 10 children per session so register today! 850-343-5060 info@lovelockhealingarts.com www.lovelockhealingarts.com
2025 Flight Adventure Deck
Summer Camp
1750 Radford Blvd., Ste C, Pensacola, FL 32508 Camps-Aviation Camp-Learn aerospace science and naval aviation with hands-on activities. Dates: June 9-13, June 23-27, July 7-11 (rising 4th-6th graders), Space Exploration Camp-Learn the history/science of space flight, celestial mechanics, and communications. Dates: July 21–25 (rising 5th-7th graders), Scout Merit Badge Camp-July 14-18 (ages 11-17)
850-308-8958 www.navalaviationmuseum.org
Aviation Challenge Camp
One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL 35805
See more details under Overnight Camps. 800-637-7223 camps@spacecamp.com www.spacecamp.com/aviation
Explore Summer Camps
Various locations, Pensacola, FL Explore Camps provide an opportunity for kids to explore their creativity, challenge their minds and build new friendships. STEAM-based academics plus a creative atmosphere results in one-of-a-kind summer
IHMC Pensacola, 40 S Alcaniz Street, Pensacola, FL 32502
Robotics Camp offers students the opportunity to learn about robotics and computer programming. : June 2-5, 9:00am-2:30pm (rising 8th graders), June 9-12. 9am-3pm (rising 9th and 10th graders)
850-202-4462 www.ihmc.us/life/robotics-camp
Key Tutoring Services
418 W Garden St, Pensacola, FL 32502
At Key Tutoring Resources, we provide total academic support for students of all ages, from early reading to advanced math. Our experienced tutors specialize in one-on-one, customized lessons tailored to each student’s unique needs, including support for learning differences like dyslexia using the Barton System. This summer we’re excited to offer: Kindergarten Boot Camp (perfect for preparing little learners for school!), Reading Classes (to boost literacy and confidence), Fun, Engaging Summer Classes (because learning should be exciting!) Flexible scheduling options include in-person or Zoom sessions, making it easy to fit into your summer plans. We also accept Step Up Scholarships to make our services accessible to all families. Visit our website or call for more details! 850-586-2823 Janice@keytutoringresources.com www.keytutoringresources.com
National Flight Academy
1 Fetterman Way, Pensacola, FL 32508
An 6 day overnight camp for rising 7-12th graders that inspires interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). Students
live in a multi-story, 102,000 square foot facility experiencing theme-park style thrills surrounded by advanced technology, flight simulators and virtual reality games that ignite imagination and encourage learning. Dates: 5/18-5/23, 5/25-5/30, 6/1-6/6, 6/8-6/13, 7/20-7/25, 7/27-8/1
850-458-7836
www.nationalflightacademy.com
Pensacola Cooks Baking and Cooking Camps
Warrington Shopping Center, 4051 Barrancas Ave, Ste C, Pensacola, FL 32507 Summer 2025 Themes: Camp Culinary Cinema, Camp Pastry Chef, Camp Cooking FUN-damentals, Camp Flour Power, Camp Test Kitchen, Camp Flavors of the Five Flags. Visit our website for dates, hours, ages, and registration information. $285 per camper, per week. Follow us on social! Facebook: Pensacola Cooks Commissary and Classroom AND PCKids Jr. Chefs -- Instagram: @pckblessed. 850-456-0743 denise@pensacolacooks.com www.pensacolacooks.com
Rising Minds Learning
27 E Wright St, Pensacola, FL
Does your child need a jump-start for the upcoming school year or a little extra support to master foundational skills? Our Extended Year Program provides targeted small-group instruction for incoming 1st to 5th graders. Led by experienced teachers, each week is designed to reinforce grade-level Reading or Math objectives (or both!) in a fun and supportive environment. 850-332-3338 www.risingmindslearning.com
ULA Galactic Adventure
Umbrella Learning Academy, 4081 E Olive Rd, Ste A, Pensacola, FL 32514
A 10 week galactic adventure full of creativity, hands-on science, and exciting field trips to museums, planetariums, and more! Don’t miss this out-of-this-world adventure! 850-361-3277 information@umbrellalearning academy.com www.umbrellalearningacademy.com
Watersports – Surf, Swim, Fishing, Boating
Pensacola Yacht Club
Summer Sailing ad on page 24
1897 Cypress Street, Pensacola, FL 32502
Summer Sailing Camps: Summer Sailing (ages 6-13, 9am-3pm, Aftercare available, Cost-$375/week, Aftercare: $25/day or $110/week) Camps run June 2-August 8. 850-723-1278 cesar@pycflboard.com https://pycsailingschool.wixsite.com/ home/2025-summer-sailing
Play Pensacola
Advanced
Fishing Camp
ad on Inside Back Cover
City Resident/$305 Non-Resident, per session. Register online only beginning April 1. Learn the places around town to fish and enjoy the outdoors. Campers enjoy a charter boat trip on Thursday. 850-436-5692 ppipes@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com/940/Summer-Camps
Play Pensacola Beginning
Fishing Camp
ad on Inside Back Cover 2001 East Llyod Street , Pensacola, FL 32503 May 27-30, 2025. Ages: 8-14 years. Monday - Friday 8:00am-4:00pm. $170 City Resident/$180 Non-Resident, per session. Register
Bayview Community Resource Center, 2001 East Llyod Street , Pensacola, FL 32503 June 16-20 & June 23-27, 2025. Ages: 9-16 years. Monday - Friday 8:00am-4:00pm. $295
online only beginning April 1. Learn to fish, identify species and enjoy the outdoors. Campers receive a tackle box and fishing pole at the end of camp.
(Stand-up Paddleboard) Camp ad on Inside Back Cover
Bayview Community Resource Center, 2001 East Llyod Street , Pensacola, FL 32503
June 2-6 & June 9-13, 2025. Ages 9-16 years. Monday - Friday 8:00am-4:00pm. $190 City Resident/$200 Non-Resident, per session. Register online April 1. Your child will learn the fundamentals of Stand-Up paddleboard (SUP) and kayaking, first in a pool then out on the open water. River Trip on Thursday! 850-436-5692 ppipes@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com/940/Summer-Camps
Play Pensacola Outdoor Adventure Camp
ad on Inside Back Cover
Bayview Community Resource Center, 2001 East Llyod Street , Pensacola, FL 32503 July 7-11, July 14-18, and July 21-25, 2025. Ages: 9-16 years. Monday - Friday 8:00am4:00pm. $190 City Resident/$200 Non-Resident, per session. Register online only beginning April 1. Learn about kayaking, fishing, hiking, rock climbing, archery and environmental stewardship.
Pensacola Beach (Surf Camp and Skimboard Camp), Waterboyz skatepark (Skate Camp), 380 North 9th Avenue, Pensacola, FL 32501
The 2025 Waterboyz Surf/Skim/Skate Camps will be held on Pensacola Beach from 9am12pm Mon-Thur. Camp size is limited per week! Must be at least 7 years old. Actionpacked camps all summer long! Our instructors represent some of Pensacola’s top surfers, skimboarders, and skaters. For further information, visit our website and check out our social media accounts. Use code GPPRULES for 10% discount.
850-433-2929 help@waterboyz.com www.waterboyz.com
Greater Pensacola Aquatics ClubSummer League Swimming Summer swim teams forming. Programs MayJuly will be held at Pensacola State College, University of West Florida & Santa Rosa Christian School.
850-484-1312 www.teamunify.com
Innerlight Surf Camp
6 Casino Beach Boardwalk, Gulf Breeze, FL
Whether you’ve never set foot on a board, or just want to sharpen your skills, Surf Camp is a fun and unique experience. Camps are from 9:00am1:00pm for ages 7-Adult. 850- 932-5134 innerlightsurf.com/pages/surf-camp
Junior Lifeguard - Pensacola Beach
Quietwater Beach Pavilions
Our program offers an alternative summer camp that promotes physical fitness, training in beach safety and education. Ages 13-15. 2025 Summer Program Dates-Session 1-June 16-27, Session 2-July 21 - Aug. 1 (Monday-Friday, 9am-3:30pm)
850-595-4115
https://myescambia.com GPP
Now that my daughter is a senior in high school, she seems to have found a core group of good friends. This is a drastic change from when she was a tween and had a new friend group every week. Most teens go through this developmental process of figuring out who their close friends are.
“By the time teens are in 10th or 11th grade, everyone is feeling a lot more grounded in who they are and where they belong,” says Maria Sanders, LSW, a clinical social worker and certified parent coach.
Here are some ways teen friendships can change and how you can best support these changes:
Less drama among friends
As tweens develop into teens, there tends to be more stability and less drama among their friend groups. “It may be helpful for parents to know that the drama starts around seventh grade, and if they just get through it for about three years, then they’ll be okay,” says Sanders.
More independence with friends
As teens develop, they are more independent from their parents but also feel more comfortable with this separation. So their friendships are not as intense as they were when they were tweens. “Having more independence gives them that freedom to navigate much more of their relationships on their own,” says Sanders.
They are also able to spend more time with their friends since they can often drive or arrange meetings on their own without parental involvement. “Some of those freedoms bring them to different scenarios, different situations, like more access to alcohol and drugs,” says Sanders.
Possible risky behaviors with friends
Teenagers tend to be impulsive as their brain continues to develop. “During the typical brain development for a teen, their brains are in that phase of having difficulty with self-control and taking risky behaviors,” says Sanders.
When teenagers are with their friends, they tend to do more dangerous behaviors like using drugs or alcohol that they might not do on their own. “There are studies out there that show that when teens are with
By discussing possible situations, you help your child to figure out how to respond. Sanders suggests saying, “It’s normal that kids are smoking pot, and you may have opportunities, and here’s where I stand; it’s not something I’m okay with.” She then discusses how to get out of a situation that they don’t want to be in. She says, “You can send me a text with a code word that lets me know you want my help in getting out of the situation.”
their peers, they are much more likely to engage in risky behavior than when they are alone,” says Sanders.
Ways you can be supportive
1) Set boundaries and expectations with friendships. It’s normal for teens to want to stay out late with their friends, but they also appreciate it (although they won’t admit it) when you set boundaries and expectations. “When our boundaries and expectations are clearly articulated, it helps them navigate those unsafe situations,” says Sanders.
When setting these expectations about spending time with friends, it’s important not to lecture them since that can hurt your relationship. “The more we lecture them and discipline them, the more we are held at arm’s length,” says Caroline Maguire, a family coach in Massachusetts
and the author of, Why Will No One Play With Me?
2) Discuss possible unsafe situations. It’s important to discuss with your teen risky situations like being offered drugs or alcohol before they happen. “Some kids know that it’s not in their best interest to take drugs, but they don’t know how to get out of those situations,” says Sanders.
Maguire also discusses the importance of avoiding unsafe situations, “Be sure that your child has a safety net and is not put in a situation where they have to make choices they are not ready for,” she says.
By discussing possible situations, you help your child to figure out how to respond. Sanders suggests saying, “It’s normal that kids are smoking pot, and you may have opportunities, and here’s where I stand; it’s not something I’m okay with.” She then discusses how to get out of a situation that they don’t want to be in. She
says, “You can send me a text with a code word that lets me know you want my help in getting out of the situation.”
Maguire also suggests creating a code or a safe word. “They need to have a safe word that they can text you, and when you receive it, you will come to pick them up with no questions asked,” she says.
3) Identify your anxiety. Parents often feel anxiety about their teens’ increased time spent with friends and possibly engaging in risky behaviors. Sometimes, parents might not even know where their child is if they are able to drive. “There’s all these tracking opportunities that parents have like 360,” says Sanders. “If we’re feeling very concerned about our kids’ safety and whereabouts, and we find ourselves tracking them all the time, I think it’s important to have a conversation with our kids about that.”
Sanders suggests figuring out where your anxiety is coming from and what needs to change to decrease that anxiety. “Why are we so concerned? And what do we need so that we don’t feel that kind of anxiety? Is it more communication between the parent and the child? Is it just an acceptance from the parent that we’re go ing to have to let go a little bit?” she says. Maguire says that if you know you provided your child with the tools to handle situations, then you can trust that they will make a good choice. “The more you can become your child’s guide and help them look at those peer relationships and understand their choices, the better prepared they will be to handle those risky situations,” she says.
4) Find support from other parents. When your kids were younger, it was easier to find support from other parents during playgroups. It may be more challenging to find those same support systems when your child is independent, and you might not know their friend’s parents. But Sanders says that it’s helpful to reach out to other parents for that support. “As a parent, hav ing our own community of other parents can be really helpful. Because what you’ll find for the most part is that you’re not alone in your worries and concerns, and they’re all totally legitimate,” she says.
Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psy chology degree. She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Parents Magazine, AARP, Healthline, Your Teen Magazine, and many other publications. She is a professional member of ASJA and SATW. You can find her at Bluesky @CherylMaguire.
FamilyCalendar
Tuesday April 1
Bands On The Beach
7:00 PM Gulfside Pavilion - Pensacola Beach, Pensacola, FL, 32561 Located in the beautiful Gulfside Pavilion overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, the series features regional artists performing a wide variety of music. Join us every summer for hot music, smooth grooves and a whole lot of good times. Spectators are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to the pavilion area. No pets are allowed and glass is prohibited. Bands on the Beach is at 7 p.m. and begins the first Tuesday in April and ends the last Tuesday in October. www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happeningbands-on-beach
Thursday April 3
Covenant Care’s 19th Annual Art of Fashion Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32501 Your ticket unlocks an unforgettable experience: exclusive entry to the pre-party and after-party, a fashion show, two drink vouchers, and delicious hors d’oeuvres.
https://choosecovenant.org/art-of-fashion-2025/
Friday April 4
Spring Festival of Flowers
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 5988 Highway 90 Milton, FL, 32583 This festival features plant nurseries, UF student club plant sale, arts & crafts, great food, and educational opportunities.
https://wfrec.ifas.ufl.edu
North Escambia Community Baby Shower (Free) 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Sanders Beach-Corinne Jones Resource Center, 913 S I St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Free for moms, dads, babies and their families. If you are pregnant, an expectant father, or have children under 3 years old, please join us! Get expert support for questions about pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, fatherhood, and more.
https://www.healthystart.info/
Fork Cancer Pensacola
6:00 PM Supposey Warehouse and Gardens, 101 S F St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Fork Cancer Pensacola is an annual fundraising event dedicated to supporting the American Cancer Society’s mission to end cancer through research, education, advocacy, and patient services. The event showcases Pensacola’s vibrant culinary and entertainment scene, bringing together local restaurants, beverage partners, and live entertainment for an evening of community engagement and philanthropy.
https://forkcancerpensacola.acsgala.org/
Bands on the Blackwater – Spring Season
7:00 PM Jernigan’s Landing, 5158 Willing St. Milton, FL, 32570 Eleven free concerts put on by the City of Milton. The concerts begin on April 4 and continue through June 13. www.facebook.com/BandsOnTheBlackwater
Ballet Pensacola’s Don Quixote
7:00 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-and-events/ ballet-pensacolas-don-quixote
Saturday April 5
4th annual Dune Dash
8:00 AM Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier, 41 Fort Pickens Rd Pensacola Beach, FL All proceeds benefit the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge and help us fulfill our
mission of rehabilitating and conserving Florida’s native wildlife. www.emeraldcoastwildliferefuge.org/
Beginning Birding Guided Hike (Free event with regular park entry fees)
9:00 AM Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32507 Big Lagoon State Park, is offering a beginning birding guided hike. This program is open to all ages. www.floridastateparks.org/
Spring Festival of Flowers
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 5988 Highway 90 Milton, FL, 32583 This festival features plant nurseries, UF student club plant sale, arts & crafts, great food, and educational opportunities. https://wfrec.ifas.ufl.edu
Community Craft & Vendor Fair
9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Innerarity Point Park, 5828 Cruzat Road Pensacola, FL, 32507 Swing into spring as you wander through and explore locally sourced crafts and gifts guaranteed to shake off those winter blues. https://business.visitperdido.com/
Easter on the Farm (Admission - $15, kids 2 and underFree) 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Holland Farms, 2055 Homer Holland Rd Milton, FL, 32570 Join us for our first annual Easter at the farm! Admission tickets include a train ride around the farm, hayride, access to the playground, a craft, and an egg hunt for the children. Egg hunts will be divided into age groups. Plenty of photo opportunities will be available. The Easter bunny will be there as well with options for professional photography. www.hollandfarmsonline.com
Children’s Treasure Hunt
11:00 AM Downtown Pensacola , Pensacola, FL, 32502 This FREE event will include fun for the whole family! Prizes, games for children and families, face painting, snow cones, interactive museum scavenger hunt, free lunch and visits from various community organizations. www.fiestapensacola.org/other-events
Ballet Pensacola’s Don Quixote
7:00 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-and-events/ ballet-pensacolas-don-quixote
Pensacola Civic Band Concert
7:30 PM WSRE Jean & Paul Amos Performance Studio, 1000 College Blvd. Pensacola, FL, 32504 The Pensacola Civic Band, under the direction of Doug Holsworth, presents “Through the Decades” at the WSRE Jean & Paul Amos Performance Studio. This musical journey through 100 years of Pensacola’s entertainment history promises to be a special evening! performingarts.pensacolastate.edu/upcoming-events/
Sunday April 6
Gulf Coast Half Marathon & Quentin Cooper 5k
7:00 AM 1 Via De Luna Dr Pensacola, FL, 32561 Come run in Paradise! 2025 marks the 15th annual Gulf Coast Half Marathon @ Pensacola Beach. A mustdo race by the locals and a destination race for those looking for the perfect beach weekend. This flat, certified Half marathon will have you feeling at home on the beach.
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 5988 Highway 90 Milton, FL, 32583 This festival features plant nurseries, UF student club plant sale, arts & crafts, great food, and educational opportunities. https://wfrec.ifas.ufl.edu/media
Jazz Brunch
11:00 AM Pensacola Country Club, 1500 Bayshore Drive Pensacola, FL, 32507 On April 6, 2025, Pensacola Symphony Orchestra will host Jazz Brunch to Support Beyond the Stage, an event to raise funds in support of PSO’s community engagement and music education initiatives, and we want you to join us! https://pensacolasymphony.com/product/jazzbrunch-2025/
Ballet Pensacola’s Don Quixote
1:30 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 www.pensacolalittletheatre. com/shows-and-events/balletpensacolas-don-quixote
Tuesday April 8
East Hill Makers Market: Easter Celebration
3:00 PM - 7:00 PM, 1151 E Brainerd St Pensacola, FL, 32503 Join us for an outdoor afternoon market and enjoy shopping with 60+ local artisans, food trucks, music, photo booth, kids activities, and more! Come shop local and meet & mingle with your neighbors from 3pm-7pm. This event is free and open to the public.
Marcus King Band
7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 S Palafox St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Marcus King Band GOES TO SCHOOL: THE TOUR www.pensacolasaenger.com
Wednesday April 9
Leonid & Friends
8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 S Palafox St Pensacola, FL, 32502 LEONID & FRIENDS have blown the minds of legions of fans with their uncanny ability to capture the spirit, musicality, and fire of American supergroup Chicago. www.pensacolasaenger.com
Thursday April 10
Connecting the Pieces Gala
5:30 PM Sanders Beach Community Center, 913 S I St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Since 2004, the Connecting the Pieces Gala has been one of the major sources of revenue for Autism Pensacola, thanks to the generosity of sponsors, guests, and donors, It empowered Autism Pensacola to transform the organization from an all-volunteer group of parents, families, and advocates of children with autism to the professionally-run nonprofit it is today. https://autismpensacola.org/gala/
Friday April 11
PSO at the Library – Bellview Branch (Free) 11:00 AM West Florida Public Libraries Bellview Branch, 6425 Mobile Highway Pensacola, FL, 32526 Musicians from the PSO flute section showcase different members of the flute family, including the piccolo and alto flute. The hour-long program includes works by a wide range of composers, featuring music by Jacques Castérède, George Gershwin, and Herman Beeftink.
FamilyCalendar
8th Annual Golf Ball Gala
6:30 PM Court Of De Luna Event Space, 116 E. Gonzalez St. Pensacola, FL, 32501 Masters-Inspired Cocktail Buffet, $5,000 50+ Foot Putting Contest, Live Music, Live & Silent Auctions. All proceeds benefit the youth programs of First Tee Gulf Coast. www.firstteegulfcoast.org/the-golf-ball
Bands on the Blackwater – Spring Season
7:00 PM Jernigan’s Landing, 5158 Willing St. Milton, FL, 32570 Eleven free concerts put on by the City of Milton. The concerts begin on April 4 and continue through June 13. www.facebook.com/BandsOnTheBlackwater
2025 Cinemas in the Sand (Free) Gulfside Pavilion on Casino Beach, Pensacola, FL Pack up your beach chairs and a blanket, and dig your toes in the sugar-white sand while watching classic family movies on Pensacola Beach. The 2025 Cinemas in the Sand movie nights return in March through October on the following Friday nights from the Gulfside Pavilion on Casino Beach. Each movie will begin at sunset https://visitpensacolabeach.com/cinemas-in-the-sand/
Saturday April 12
Mullet Man Triathlon
7:00 AM Flora-Bama, 17401 Perdido Key Dr. Pensacola, FL, 32507 Mullet Man Triathlon www.florabama.com/mullet-triathlon
Pensacola Beach Firefighters Challenge
7:00 AM Pensacola Beach, Pensacola, FL Join us April 12 for the toughest firefighter challenge in the US! Test your skill, strength, and stamina on the sugarwhite sands of Pensacola Beach.
www.pensacolasports.org/penbeachfirefighters
DeLuna’s Open Water Swim
8:00 AM Pensacola Beach behind Flounder’s, Pensacola, FL, 32504 Join us on beautiful Pensacola Beach for the annual DeLuna’s Open Water Swim! Pick the .6, 1.2, or 2.4 miles swim to challenge your skill and speed. https://www.pensacolasports.org/delunasswim/
Beginning Birding Guided Hike (Free event with regular park entry fees)
9:00 AM Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32507 Big Lagoon State Park, is offering a beginning birding guided hike. This program is open to all ages. www.floridastateparks.org/
Whale Festival Celebrates Gulf Coast Marine Life
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Gulfside Pavilion, 20 Casino Beach Boardwalk Pensacola, FL The Gulf Coast Whale Festival brings environmental education and fun to Pensacola Beach on Saturday April 12. Educational exhibits and activities tell the story of Gulf whales and local marine life, and a puppet parade led by Birds of a Feather showcases the ecology of the Gulf. Sweet sounds will flow from the Casino Beach Pavilion with live music by Pensacola singer-songwriters, and the premier performance of Ode to the Rice’s Whale, written by Pensacola performer Bob Teague. healthygulf.org/
Easter Egg Hunt at Splash City Adventures ($14.99 per person)
10:00 AM Splash City, 6709 Pensacola Blvd Pensacola, FL, 32505 Join us for the Annual Easter Egg Hunt at Splash City Adventures! Egg hunts start at 10 and park opens at 11am. Bring your basket to fill with eggs, and then stay and play all day! splashcityadventure.com
Bunnies & Baskets
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Downtown OWA, Foley, AL, 36535 Spring has sprung, and Bunnies & Baskets is bringing family-friendly fun to Downtown OWA on April 12th, 13th, and 19th! Get creative with hands-on crafts, snap the perfect photo with Mr. Bunny, and join in more egg-citing activities that bring the season to life. https://visitowa.com/bunnies-baskets/
Dog Easter Egg Hunt
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Calvert’s in the Heights, 670 Scenic Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32503 This year’s event is jammed pack with new activities for you and your pup to enjoy! Not only will we have a dog safe Easter Egg hunt, but we will play games such as an egg and spoon race with you and your dog, an Easter egg relay race, and more! https://www.wolfgangparkandbrews.com/eventdetails/4th-annual-dog-easter-egg-hunt-event
Woofstock
9:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Pik-itz! Art & Antiques, 1922 Highway 87 Navarre, FL, 32566 Please make plans to
FamilyCalendar
join us for a doggone good time on the back lawn of Pik-itz! Art & Antiques. This year, we’re bringing you another paws-itively amazing celebration packed with fun activities, LIVE entertainment, and all things dogs and the humans that LOVE them!
7:00 PM Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E Gregory St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Get ready for an epic night of country music hits and unforgettable performance! www.pensacolabaycenter.com
Pensacola Little Theatre Presents A Cabaret of Curiosities
7:00 PM The Clark Family Cultural Center, 400 S. Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 The area’s artiest affair, Cabaret is an immersive experience known for its revolving theme where art becomes the life of the party. Partygoers are entranced by the art of discovery as they partake in an eclectic variety of local talent all jam-packed into one night. www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/cabaret
Sunday April 13
Bunnies & Baskets
Details on April 12. https://visitowa.com/bunnies-baskets/ Fred Levin Way Fest
11:00 AM - 3:00
PM, Historic Downtown Pensacola, 300 S. Palafox St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Food, Games, Music, Art, Prizes, and, most importantly, 60+ nonprofit organizations distributing information on the services they offer to families in need along with gifting essential items, such as backpacks, blankets, books, diapers, first aid kits, hygiene kits, pet food, school supplies, soap, socks, thermometers, toilet paper, toothbrushes, toothpaste, towels, and underwear. www.visitpensacola.com/events/fred-levin-fest/
Million Dollar Time Machine
7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 S Palafox St Pensacola, FL, 32502 A musical act from the FUTURE, performing with MILLION DOLLAR acts from the PAST and bringing it all together for you right here in the PRESENT. www.pensacolasaenger.com
Monday April 14
Joanne Shaw Taylor
8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 S Palafox St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Joanne Shaw Taylor, discovered by Dave Stewart of the Eurythmics at the age of 16, has carved out an impressive niche for herself in the world of blues-rock. www.pensacolasaenger.com
Tuesday April 15
Bands On The Beach
7:00 PM Gulfside Pavilion - Pensacola Beach, Pensacola, FL, 32561 Located in the beautiful Gulfside Pavilion overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, the series features regional artists performing a wide variety of music. Join us every summer for hot music, smooth grooves and a whole lot of good times. Spectators are encouraged
to bring lawn chairs or blankets to the pavilion area. No pets are allowed and glass is prohibited. Bands on the Beach is at 7 p.m. and begins the first Tuesday in April and ends the last Tuesday in October. www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happeningbands-on-beach
Mac McAnally
8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 S Palafox St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Mac McAnally Concert www.pensacolasaenger.com
Wednesday April 16
Jay Alexander, master magician & mentalist
7:30 PM Ashmore Auditorium, Pensacola, FL, 32504
A Master Magician and comic, Jay Alexander is one of the top corporate and society entertainers in the entire country. performingarts.pensacolastate.edu/upcoming-events/
Dog Man The Musical
7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 S Palafox St Pensacola, FL, 32502
Based on the worldwide bestselling hit series by Dav Pilkey, Dog Man: The Musical is a hilarious and heartwarming production following the chronicles of Dog Man, who with the head of a dog and the body of a policeman, loves to fight crime and chew on the furniture. But while trying his best to be a good boy, can he save the city from Flippy the cyborg fish and his army of Beasty Buildings? www.pensacolasaenger.com
Thursday April 17
Menopause the Musical 2: Cruising Through ‘The Change’
7:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 S Palafox St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Menopause the Musical 2: Cruising Through ‘The Change’ www.pensacolasaenger.com
Friday April 18
Grandma Jenkins StoryTyme
11:00 AM Pensacola Children’s Museum, 330 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Grandma Jenkins is ready to share her favorite stories once again! StoryTyme is at 11:00 a.m. on select Fridays. Free program in the Party Central Room. April 18: The Little Red Hen https://historicpensacola.org/plan-your-visit/museums-properties/pensacola-childrens-museum/
Bands on the Blackwater – Spring Season
7:00 PM Jernigan’s Landing, 5158 Willing St. Milton, FL, 32570 Eleven free concerts put on by the City of Milton. The concerts begin on April 4 and continue through June 13. www.facebook.com/BandsOnTheBlackwater
Saturday April 19
Beulah Dash - Color Run and Egg Hunt
8:00 AM Escambia County Equestrian Center, 7750 Mobile Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32526 Join us for our annual Beulah Dash hosted by Marcus Pointe Baptist Church - Beulah. Bring the family to the Escambia County Equestrian Center Saturday April 19, 2025 for a family color run. food trucks, and free egg hunts for all ages and special needs. Egg Hunts - 11:00 AM - AGES Walkers through 4, and Special Needs; 12:00 PM - K5 through 5th Grade. Registration-online. https://pensacolachurch.org/easter/
Beginning Birding Guided Hike (Free event with regular park entry fees)
9:00 AM Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32507 Big Lagoon State Park, is offering a beginning birding guided hike. This program is open to all ages. www.floridastateparks.org/
Egga-Wahooza
10:00 AM Community Maritime Park, 301 W Main St Pensacola, FL Marcus Pointe Baptist Church, The Pensacola
Blue Wahoos, and Cat Country 98.7 presents the 2025 Egga-Wahooza Easter Egg Hunt! Special Needs Hunt & 0 - 4 Year Olds at 10:00 AM, K5 - 5th Grade at 11:00 AM
Earth Day Festival
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Bayview Park, 2001 E Lloyd St. Pensacola, FL, 32503 Earth Day Pensacola: A free community event. Arts Market, Children’s Activities, Food, Live Performances www.earthdaypensacola.com
Bunnies & Baskets
Details on April 12. https://visitowa.com/bunnies-baskets/
Easter Egg Hunt & Bunny Drop
11:00 AM Flora-Bama, 17401 Perdido Key Dr. Pensacola, FL, 32507 Happy Easter to everybunny! Kids’ crafts and face painting will begin at 11am in the tent. The Easter Egg Hunt will begin at 12pm on the beach behind the Flora-Bama and the Easter Bunny will skydive onto the beach shortly after! https://www.florabama.com/easter-egg-hunt
Pace-A-Palooza Egg Hunt
11:00 AM North Pace Campus Property (Next to Wallace Lake K-8), Pace, FL, 32571 Over 25,000 eggs, 10:00 AM-AGES Walkers through 2 and Special Needs, 10:30 AM - AGES 3 through 4 and K5 through 1st Grade, 11:00 AM - 2nd through 5th Grade. Registration-online https://pensacolachurch.org/easter/
An Evening Under the Stars (Free event with regular park entry fees)
5:45 PM Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32507 Big Lagoon State Park along with the Escambia Amateur Astronomer Association would like to invite you to spend an evening gazing at the skies! Clear skies permitting, members of the Association will set up telescopes and binoculars to capture views of the moon, planets, and other celestial objects. The gaze will be held at the Amphitheater, telescopes will be set up on the SE side of the parking area.
www.floridastateparks.org/
White Tie Rock Ensemble: 80s Dance Party
8:00 PM Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E Gregory St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Bust out the old gear, tease that hair and come dance the night away as we take you back in time with an 80s musical extravaganza! www.pensacolabaycenter.com
Fleetwood Mach
8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 S Palafox St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Fleetwood Mach Tribute Show recreates the magic and mystique of Fleetwood Mac in an unforgettable performance of all the greatest hits. www.pensacolasaenger.com
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Over The Edge Pensacola 220 W Garden St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Over the Edge is a thrilling fundraising event supporting The Arc Gateway, where participants rappel down a multi-story building to raise awareness and funds for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
https://thearcgateway.crowdchange.co/41716
Sunday April 20
Easter At The Zoo 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Gulf Coast Zoo, 5701 Gulf Breeze Parkway Gulf Breeze, FL, 32563 Hop on over to Gulf Breeze Zoo for an egg-citing time. Enjoy children’s activities, popular Easter Egg hunts and a visit by the Easter Bunny www.gbzoo.com
Monday April 21
The Manhattan Dolls: Music of the 30’s & 40’s 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 S Palafox St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Hop aboard the *Chattanooga Choo Choo* and join The Manhattan Dolls on a *Sentimental Journey* through the great music of the 30s and 40s. www.pensacolasaenger.com
Tuesday April 22
Bands On The Beach Details on April 1.
Thursday April 24
St. Christopher’s Concerts (Free)
6:00 PM St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church, 3200 N 12th Ave Pensacola, FL, 32503 Free family oriented concert series on the lawn at St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church lawn. April 24 - Modern Eldorados www.scpen.org/christophers-concerts.html
Friday April 25
Walk In My Shoes 2025
9:00 AM Gulf Coast Kid’s House, 3401 N 12th Ave. Pensacola, FL, 32503 Join the Lauren’s Kids foundation and thousands of walkers across the state for the 2025 Walk in My Shoes 1,500-mile trek across Florida. April is National Sexual Assault Awareness Month and National Child Abuse Prevention Month — every step counts in the fight to prevent child sexual abuse and help survivors heal. https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Pensacola/WalkInMyShoesPensacola
Fiesta Pensacola 40th Annual Crawfish Festival (Adults-$5 per day, Kids-Ages 6-12: $2 per day, 5 and underFree) 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM, Seville Square & Fountain Park, Pensacola, FL, 32502 Great food, entertainment, activities, vendors and more. www.fiestapensacola.org/crawfish-festival
Blackberry Smoke Concert
8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 S Palafox St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Rattle, Ramble and Roll Tour. www.visitpensacola.com
Saturday April 26
Crawfish 5K
8:00 AM Pensacola, FL The Crawfish 5K on Pensacola Beach is one you don’t want to miss! The Course is flat flat flat and will be the scenic Beach 5K route on the streets of Pensacola Beach https://runpensacola.com/event/crawfish-5k/
Beginning Birding Guided Hike (Free event with regular park entry fees)
9:00 AM Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32507 Big Lagoon State Park, is offering a beginning birding guided hike. This program is open to all ages. www.floridastateparks.org/
Vision of Hope Fishing Rodeo (Free)
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 4512 Morristown Rd Jay, FL, 32565 Open to all persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Registration required. This is a catch and release event. No supplies needed or required. Each participant must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Lunch available for purchase (free for registered participants). T-shirts available free on day of event (shirt size required in advance on registration form). Registration forms available online at https://www.visionofhopefl.org/ www.visionofhopefl.org/
Scavenger Hunt for Autism
9:00 AM Blue Wahoos Stadium, 351 W Cedar St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for a Magical Mission: A Disney themed Scavenger Hunt to raise money for Autism Pensacola. You will embark on a adventure through Pensacola, solving Disney themed clues, but the fun doesn’t stop there. We will finish the day at at Gary’s Brewery and Biergarten from 12-3 to crown a winner. There will be raffles, games and good food to enjoy.
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, WSRE Jean & Paul Amos Performance Studio Pensacola State College, 1000 College Blvd Pensacola, FL, 32504 A free community event promoting early education, health and safety, and the neighborly values of Mister Rogers. Each year, local families and community organizations come together for the event, and children delight in exploring educational activities. www.wsre.org/events/be-my-neighbor-day
Fiesta Pensacola 40th Annual Crawfish Festival
(Adults-$5 per day, Kids-Ages 6-12: $2 per day, 5 and underFree) 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM, Seville Square & Fountain Park, Pensacola, FL, 32502 Great food, entertainment, activities, vendors and more. www.fiestapensacola.org/crawfish-festival
Grillin’ in the Breeze
11:00 AM 800 Shoreline Dr Gulf Breeze, FL, 32561
Grillin’ in the Breeze is a competitive grilling event where patrons enjoy delicious and creative concoc tions hot off the grills, live music, a silent auction, and interactive children’s activities while raising money for Santa Rosa Education Foundation and its Take Stock in Children Scholarship and Mentoring program. www.grillininthebreeze.com
Evening in White
Sunday April 27
Fiesta Pensacola 40th Annual Crawfish Festival (Adults-$5 per day, Kids-Ages 6-12: $2 per day, 5 and underFree) 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Seville Square & Fountain Park, Pensacola, FL, 32502 Great food, entertainment, activities, vendors and more.
www.fiestapensacola.org/crawfish-festival
Men Who Cook Event
4:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Sanders Beach-Corinne Jones Resource Center, 913 S I St Pensacola, FL, 32502 A local favorite, this one-of-a-kind fundraiser competition showcases the culinary talents of non-professional male chefs as they prepare everything from appetizers to desserts, attracting crowds of over 400 guests in its first 10 years. This fundraiser supports Pace Center for Girls Escambia – Santa Rosa’s mission of providing girls and young women an opportunity for a better future through education, counseling, training, and advocacy.
www.facebook.com/PaceEscambiaSantaRosa
Tuesday April 29
Bands On The Beach
Details on April 1.
Wednesday April 30
Gulf Coast Kid’s House Blue Gala 5:30 PM Culinary Productions, 201 E Wright St Pensacola, FL, 32501 Gulf Coast Kid’s House is hosting an exclusive cocktail-style fundraiser to raise awareness and funds for its essential services. Guests will enjoy delectable heavy appetizers, beer and wine, and live music in a welcoming atmosphere. The night will feature a brief program, a fund-a-need opportunity, and an exciting surprise unveiling—all in support of expanding critical therapy services for the children they serve. As one of GCKH’s two largest fundraisers of the year, this event will play a crucial role in sustaining and growing their advocacy efforts. http://onecau.se/bluegala
Thursday May 1
Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, OWA , 101 S OWA Blvd Foley, AL, 36535 We are excited you are interested in coming to this year’s event that will feature balloons from across the country, enjoy food vendors, arts and craft vendors, and retail vendors. Join us at OWA for this fun-filled weekend. www.gulfcoastballoonfestival.com
St. Christopher’s Concerts (Free)
6:00 PM St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church, 3200 N 12th Ave Pensacola, FL, 32503 Free family oriented concert series on the lawn at St. Christopher’s Episco pal Church lawn. May 1 - Crosstown Band www.scpen.org/christophers-concerts.html
6:00 PM TBA, Pensacola, FL This event, known and started in Paris as Dîner en Blanc, is a pop-up blancthemed picnic where attendees wear their most fabu lous white attire. The event inspires chic creativity as guests bring their own picnic baskets and white decor. Evening in White will take over a mystery location in Pensacola, which will remain a surprise until the day of the event. Proceeds will benefit the Junior League of Pensacola.
https://pensacola.jl.org/evening-in-white/
ready to share her favorite stories once again! Story Tyme is at 11:00 a.m. on select Fridays. Friday, May 2: William The Dragon https://historicpensacola.org/plan-your-visit/muse ums-properties/pensacola-childrens-museum/
Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival
11:00 AM - 10:00 PM, OWA , 101 S OWA Blvd Foley, AL, 36535 The Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival is
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approaching its 19th year of flying! We are excited you are interested in coming to this year’s event that will feature more than 50 balloons from across the country, enjoy food vendors, arts and craft vendors, and retail vendors. Join us at OWA for this fun-filled weekend.
www.gulfcoastballoonfestival.com
Moana 2 Movie Night
6:00 PM Blue Wahoos Stadium, 351 W Cedar St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Bring the family to Blue Wahoos Stadium on Friday, May 2 for Moana 2 Movie Night! The movie begins at 6:00. www.milb.com/pensacola/tickets/specialevents
Bands on the Blackwater – Spring Season
7:00 PM Jernigan’s Landing, 5158 Willing St. Milton, FL, 32570 Eleven free concerts put on by the City of Milton. The concerts begin on April 4 and continue through June 13. www.facebook.com/BandsOnTheBlackwater
Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Trail to Oregon
7:30 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 S. Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Trail to Oregon is a lively and humorous musical that follows the misadventures of a quirky pioneer family as they journey westward along the Oregon Trail in the 19th century. Led by the bumbling but well-meaning Father, the family encounters a series of obstacles and colorful characters along the way, including bandits, buffalo stampedes, and the dreaded dysentery. www.visitpensacola.com/events/the-trail-to-oregon/
Saturday May 3
Fiesta Pensacola 10K & 5K
7:30 AM 10000 College Blvd. Pensacola, FL The Pensacola Fiesta 10k & 5k, a Pensacola Runners Association Event, is the premier heritage road race in Northwest Florida and the perfect way to close out your Spring racing season.
https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Pensacola/Fiesta
Spring 2025 Plantapalooza
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Gary’s Brewery & Biergarten, 208 Newman Avenue Pensacola, FL We will have over 65 plant and plant related vendors, plus 5 of your 5 favorite food trucks!
Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival
11:00 AM - 10:00 PM, OWA , 101 S OWA Blvd Foley, AL, 36535 The Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival is approaching its 19th year of flying! We are excited you are interested in coming to this year’s event that will feature more than 50 balloons from across the country, enjoy food vendors, arts and craft vendors, and retail vendors. Join us at OWA for this fun-filled weekend. www.gulfcoastballoonfestival.com
Burger Battle by the Bay 2025 11:00 AM Community Maritime Park, 301 W Main St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Attendees taste numerous bite-sized samples of mouthwatering grilled burgers made by both professional and amateur teams - and you can vote for your favorite! Proceeds benefit the charitable programs of the Rotary Club of Pensacola Suburban West and the Cordova Rotary Club. eventbrite.com
Pensacola Symphony Orchestra - Season Finale Dress Rehearsal ($10)
1:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 S Palafox St Pensacola, FL, 32502 The season concludes with a thrilling finale,
featuring Antonín Dvo?ák’s lyrical and fiery Sixth Symphony and Hector Berlioz’s Le Corsaire, inspired by the thieving pirates of Lord Byron’s poetry. Join us for a working dress rehearsal of this program. https://pensacolasymphony.com/product/seasonfinale-2025-dress-rehearsal/
Glitz & Gallop Gala
4:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Culinary Productions Event Venue, 201 East Wright Street Pensacola, FL, 32501 This unique fundraising event will be packed with exciting activities including a silent auction, horse races, a chance to win great prizes, and watch the Kentucky Derby while enjoying handcrafted cocktails and hors d’oeuvres! Proceeds from the event will help support the mission of United Way of West Florida. uwwf.org/galatickets
Pensacola Symphony Orchestra - Season Finale
7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 S Palafox St Pensacola, FL, 32502 The season concludes with a thrilling finale, featuring Antonín Dvo?ák’s lyrical and fiery Sixth Symphony and Hector Berlioz’s Le Corsaire, inspired by the thieving pirates of Lord Byron’s poetry. https://pensacolasymphony.com/upcoming-events/
Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Trail to Oregon Details on May 2.
Sunday May 4
Home Sweet Home Gulf Coast
2:00 PM Blue Wahoos Stadium, 351 W Cedar St Pensacola, FL, 32502 The Home Sweet Home Gulf Coast event is more than just a gathering—it’s a celebration of the resilience and ingenuity of local businesses. The event showcases a diverse range of industries, from real estate and landscaping to insurance, construction, and more.
Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Trail to Oregon 2:30 PM Details on May 2.
Tuesday May 6
Bands On The Beach Details on April 1.
Thursday May 8
St. Christopher’s Concerts (Free)
6:00 PM St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church, 3200 N 12th Ave Pensacola, FL, 32503 Free family oriented concert series on the lawn at St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church lawn. May 8 - The Lads (British Rock from the 60s & 70s) www.scpen.org/christophers-concerts.html
Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Trail to Oregon 7:30 PM Details on May 2.
Friday May 9
Into The Blue Gala-Ocean’s Twenty-Five 5:00 PM Sanders Beach-Corinne Jones Resource Center, 913 South I St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Into the Blue Gala: Ocean’s 25 will be the event of Pensacola in 2025! Bet on Blue this year and protect our oceans by attending our Underwater Casino Night fundraising Gala. Get ready for an unforgettable evening filled with casino entertainment, music, dinner, dancing, silent and live auctions- all under an oceanic charm. https://oceanstriketeam.org/into-the-blue-gala
Bands on the Blackwater – Spring Season
7:00 PM Jernigan’s Landing, 5158 Willing St. Milton, FL, 32570 Eleven free concerts put on by the City of Milton. The concerts begin on April 4 and continue through June 13.
www.facebook.com/BandsOnTheBlackwater
Pensacola Children’s Chorus Presents Showtime 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 S Palafox St Pensacola, FL, 32502 www.pensacolasings.org/performances
Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Trail to Oregon 7:30 PM Details on May 2.
2025 Cinemas in the Sand Gulfside Pavilion stage on Casino Beach, Pensacola, FL Get ready to kick off your sandals and soak up some movie magic as Cinemas in the Sand returns to Pensacola Beach for another unforgettable year of family fun. Starting at sunset. May 9: “Moana 2” https://localpulse.com/2025/02/cinemas-in-the-sandreturns-to-pensacola-beach/
Saturday May 10
Leftover 4 Miler
8:00 AM Crabs at Casino Beach Parking Lot, Pensacola, FL Everything you will receive (T-shirts, medals & awards) at this race will be from past races. There is no rhyme or reason to what you receive, it’s a mystery!
https://runpensacola.com/event/leftover-4-miler/
Pensacola Beach Art & Wine Festival
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Pensacola Beach Boardwalk, 400 Quietwater Beach Rd Pensacola, FL, 32561 The Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce invites the public to spend a beautiful Sunday afternoon strolling the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk, enjoying the fall air while sampling wines and perusing the works of some of the Gulf Coast’s most talented artists. www.pensacolabeachchamber.com/art-wine-festival
7th Annual Military Appreciation Picnic
11:00 AM Navarre Park, 8513 Navarre Park Navarre, FL, 32566 The Navarre Chamber’s Military & Veteran Affairs Committee is gearing up to host the 7th Annual Military Appreciation Picnic “Saluting Our Hometown Heroes” on Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 11 am to 2 pm at the stunning Navarre Park. Get ready for a day filled with free food, games, live music, and camaraderie with your fellow service members and their families.
https://business.navarrechamber.com/
Pensacola Children’s Chorus Presents Showtime 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 S Palafox St Pensacola, FL, 32502 www.pensacolasings.org/performances
Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Trail to Oregon 7:30 PM Details on May 2.
Sunday May 11
Mother’s Day at Gulf Breeze Zoo 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, 5701 Gulf Breeze Parkway Gulf Breeze, FL, 32563 On Sunday, May 11, moms will receive one (1) complimentary mimosa to enjoy while strolling through the park. Enjoy live music from 11 AM to 3 PM. www.gbzoo.com
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Pensacola Children’s Chorus Presents Showtime 2:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 S Palafox St Pensacola, FL, 32502 www.pensacolasings.org/performances
Pensacola Little Theatre Presents Trail to Oregon 2:30 PM Details on May 2.
Wednesday May 14
Education Day Game
11:00 AM Blue Wahoos Stadium, 351 W Cedar St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Bring your class and join the Blue Wahoos for a fun-filled, educational day of learning at Blue Wahoos Stadium at Pensacola’s annual Education Day game in 2025! On Wednesday, May 14, the Blue Wahoos will play a special 11:05 AM game in front of a packed crowd of local school students! www.milb.com/pensacola/events/educationday
Bands on the Blackwater – Spring Season
7:00 PM Jernigan’s Landing, 5158 Willing St. Milton, FL, 32570 Eleven free concerts put on by the City of Milton. The concerts begin on April 4 and continue through June 13. www.facebook.com/BandsOnTheBlackwater
Saturday May 17
Gumbo Ya-Ya
4:00 PM Seville Quarter, Pensacola, FL, 32502 Amateur and professional teams will compete for bragging rights for the best Gumbo in Pensacola. As part of the rules, the three-person teams have to make the gumbo from scratch. Judges then have the very difficult job of deciding which teams will win various categories. Benefits Big Brothers www.bbbsnwfl.org/events/gumbo-ya-ya/
Monster Jam
Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32501 The most action-packed motorsports experience for families in the world today returns to Pensacola for a high-octane weekend at Pensacola Bay Center. Featuring the ultimate mix of high-flying action and four-wheel excitement. Time: 1:00pm, 7:00pm pensacolabaycenter.com/events/detail/monster-jam-25
Sunday May 18
Monster Jam
10:00 AM Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32501 The most action-packed motorsports experience for families in the world today returns to Pensacola for a high-octane weekend at Pensacola Bay Center. Featuring the ultimate mix of high-flying action and four-wheel excitement. Time: 1:00pm, 7:00pm pensacolabaycenter.com/events/detail/monster-jam-25
Monday May 19
PBCB 10th Anniversary Celebration Concert
7:30 PM University of West Florida Center for Fine and Performing Arts, Pensacola, FL, 32514 PBCB 10th Anniversary Celebration Concert www.pbcband.org
Every Monday
Baby Story Time at Your Library
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Pensacola Library, 239 N. Spring St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for stories,
songs, and rhymes. This program is suggested for babies ages 0 to 2 years and their caregivers. 850-436-5060 www.mywfpl.com
Every Tuesday
Baby Story Time at Your Library
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Tryon Library, 1200 Langley Ave. Pensacola, FL, 32504 Join us for stories, songs, and rhymes. This program is suggested for babies ages 0 to 2 years and their caregivers. 850-471-6980 www.mywfpl.com
Family Story Time at Your Library
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Southwest Library, 12248 Gulf Beach Highway Pensacola, FL, 32507 Join us for exciting stories, songs, and movement. This program is suggested for children ages 2 to 5 years and their caregivers. STEAM Story Time will happen once a month at each location during the regular story time slot. 850-453-7780 www.mywfpl.com
Family Story Time at Your Library
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Bellview Library, 6425 Mobile Highway Pensacola, FL, 32526 Join us for exciting stories, songs, and movement. This program is suggested for children ages 2 to 5 years and their caregivers. STEAM Story Time will happen once a month at each location during the regular story time slot.
850-471-6360 www.mywfpl.com
Every Wednesday
Family Story Time at Your Library
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Pensacola Library, 239 N. Spring St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for exciting stories, songs, and movement. This program is suggested for children ages 2 to 5 years and their caregivers. STEAM Story Time will happen once a month at each location during the regular story time slot. 850-436-5060 www.mywfpl.com
Every Thursday
Family Story Time at Your Library
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Westside Library, 1301 W. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for exciting stories, songs, and movement. This program is suggested for children ages 2 to 5 years and their caregivers. STEAM Story Time will happen once a month at each location during the regular story time slot.
850-595-1047 www.mywfpl.com
Family Story Time at Your Library
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Tryon Library, 1200 Langley Ave. Pensacola, FL, 32504 Join us for exciting stories, songs, and movement. This program is suggested for children ages 2 to 5 years and their caregivers. STEAM Story Time will happen once a month at each location during the regular story time slot. 850-471-6980 www.mywfpl.com
Every third Friday
Gallery Night
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Downtown Pensacola, Pensacola, FL, 32502 Gallery Night is an all-ages community arts and culture event which happens on the third Friday of each month from 5-9 p.m. www.gallerynightpensacola.org
Every Saturday
Palafox Market
9:00 AM - 2:00 PM, 100 N Palafox Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Shop for farm-fresh produce, plants, baked goods and more at the event that’s consistently voted “Best Farmers Market” and “Best Free Thing to Do.” www.palafoxmarket.com
Every first Saturday
West Florida Genealogical Society Meeting (Free)
10:30:00 AM - 12:00:00 PM, Downtown Pensacola Library , 239 N Spring Street Pensacola , FL, 32502 WFGS is for anyone interested in genealogy and family history. A brief meeting followed by presentation. info@wfgs.org www.wfgs.org
Every first and third Saturday
Hwy 87 Market
9:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Sand Dollar Plaza, 1900 Hwy 87 Navarre, FL, 32566 Enjoy a wide variety of booths, offering food items, art, decor, and so much more. 850-368-9500 facebook.com/sanddollarsaturdays
Every other Saturday Art Academy for Autism
1:30 PM Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 South Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Art Academy for Autism is an arts education initiative designed for children and young adults on the autism spectrum. Ages 5-9-Alternating Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Ages 10-15-Alternating Saturdays from 1:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. www.pensacolamuseum.org
Last Saturday of the Month
Trash-Bash
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM, Sand Crab Pavilion, Navarre, FL, 32566 The Trash-Bash is a citizen-science program for community members of all ages held the last Saturday of every month from 8:00-10:00 am. Sign in at the Sand Crab Pavilion (look for the “Giving Sea Turtles More Tomorrows” banner). There will be a limited supply of gloves, buckets and pickers-you are welcome to bring your own! www.navarrebeachseaturtles.org
Various Dates-April 2025
Ice Flyers Games Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32501 Championship hockey team that prioritizes consistently delivering the highest level of entertainment to our fans and support to our community. Visit our website for more information. www.iceflyers.com
Please send your calendar events to lynn@greaterpensacolaparents.com.
Please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.
Understanding Physical Impacts of Device Use
As we know, in today’s tech-driven world, it’s nearly impossible to escape the influence of smartphones and other devices. While we are increasingly aware of the psychological concerns associated with excessive screen time—such as anxiety, depression, and social isolation—there’s another pressing issue that often goes unnoticed: the physical effects of prolonged device usage. As children and teenagers spend more time on their gadgets, issues like phone pinky deformities, tech neck, hand and joint pain, and eye problems like myopia are becoming increasingly common. I think parents need to be informed about these physical manifestations and take proactive steps to prevent long-term damage.
describes the neck pain and discomfort that arises from consistently looking down at phones and tablets. We have all seen it, kids (and adults) sitting hunched over phones in waiting rooms, in restaurants, on living rooms couches. It is almost more common to see someone leaned over a device than it is to actually SEE someone’s eyeballs while sitting up straight, simply taking in their environment. With increased online learning and gaming, many children are adopting poor posture that can lead to chronic pain. Over time, this can contribute to spinal issues and long-term discomfort, affecting their overall quality of life.
Phone Pinky Deformities: Have you noticed your child gripping their phone with a certain rigidity? The “phone pinky deformity” is a growing concern among heavy smartphone users, particularly teens. This condition arises when individuals constantly support the weight of their phone with their pinky finger, causing it to bend and potentially lead to permanent deformity over time.
As parents, it’s crucial to recognize this issue and encourage better habits. Remind your children to use devices in a way that minimizes strain on their hands. For instance, using a pop socket or a phone case with a built-in grip can help alleviate pressure on the pinky and reduce the risk of developing such deformities. Or, even better, simply cut back on device time.
Tech Neck: Another common issue among young device users is “tech neck.” This term
Encouraging children to maintain good posture while using devices is important. Remind them to sit up straight, keep screens at eye level, and take regular breaks to stretch and move. Implementing ergonomic practices will not only improve their comfort but also prevent further issues down the road. Or, even better, simply cut back on device time.
Hand, Thumb, and Joint Pain: Frequent device use is also linked to hand, thumb, and joint pain. Known as “texting thumb,” this condition arises from repetitive motion and can lead to tendonitis and strain in the joints. Kids and teens often don’t realize the long-term implications of their daily habits until they start to experience pain. Unfortunately, these issues can become irreversible if not addressed early on.
To combat this, encourage your child to take regular breaks when using their devices. The 20-20-20 rule is a great way to remind them to step away—every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This not only gives their
hands a rest but also provides their eyes with a break from the screen. Or, even better, simply cut back on device time.
Eye Issues and Myopia: Perhaps one of the most alarming consequences of increased screen time is the rise in myopia or nearsightedness. Studies show that children who spend more time on screens and less time outdoors are at a higher risk of developing vision problems. The American Academy of Ophthalmology has linked excessive screen use to eye strain and worsening eyesight.
Encouraging outdoor play and reducing screen time can significantly impact children’s eye health. It’s important to promote balanced activities that include time away from devices. Regular eye check-ups can help catch any issues early. Or, even better, simply cut back on device time.
As parents, we must not only discuss the psychological implications of excessive device use but also acknowledge the physical challenges facing our children. Many of these issues, once developed, can be irreversible. However, with proactive measures, we can mitigate the damage caused by excessive screen time. Or, for what seems to be an incredibly logical and effective approach, simply cut back on device time.
Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate.
She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience. She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knbcommunications.com.
