August 2020 Lee Family News

Family News FREE

August 2020

Spotlight on

Preschools & Schools

Gidgets &

Gadgets

Kids & Masks

After School

Choices

&Kid Events

Family friendly

activities for

August

...But Wait There’s More!

Projects. Pinterest. Factoids.

2 - August 2020

Family News

Unprecedented Times Call for Professional Moving Services

Full Service Moving & Storage Local & Long Distance Throughout the Country

Independently Owned & Operated Nationwide Carrier

www.CallahanBrothers.com

Optimize Value and Experience Take The Stress Out Of Moving

Call us today for a free In-Home or Virtual Estimate! 239-689-3372

Family News

August 2020 - 3

CONTENTS August 2020

FEATURES Spotlight on Preschools

6

New school calendar

14

Back to School?

16

16

18

Trending Books

18

Things to do in August

20

After School Choices

22 30

Gidgets & Gadgets

24

Health & Wellness

26

Arts & Entertainment

28

... But Wait

30

How to reach us: Publisher/Owner Kathy M. Kuser

6

On The Cover

Editor/Owner Jamie K. Kuser

Sales/Marketing Lisa Doyle Mitchell Columnist Mandy Carter

P.O. Box 9285 Fort Myers, FL 33902 239-278-5236 e-mail us at

leefamilynews@earthlink.net

Lee County Family News is published 12 times a year.

Š 2020 by KMK Publishing Inc. 4 - August 2020

Preschool Directory

www.leefamilynews.net

Jax Maly, 6, son of Rich & Deena Maly of Fort Myers Photo provided by Making MemoriesPortraits.com Family News

2020 BIG GIVEAWAY

Kathleen McBride of Fort Myers Beach Cole Newton of Fort Myers

Deborah Svelnis of Lehigh Acres Sara Miller of Fort Myers

Ashley Pagels of Fort Myers Brian Glass of Cape Coral

Milciades Baez of Fort Myers Linda MacDonald of Fort Myers

Family News

August 2020 - 5

Preschools & Schools Educating our children in 2020-2021 All Aboard Preschool

All Aboard Preschool has open enrollment for all ages 4 weeks through 12 years old. We are a certified VPK and School Readiness Provider. We offer a VPK program and a full curriculum that provides the finest early learning experience for the children.

1918 SE Santa Barbara Place, Cape Coral www.allaboardonline.com 239-574-5220 6 - August 2020

Bobbie Noonan’s

All programs are developmentally appropriate, multi-sensory, multi-dimensional, sequential, and provide for socialization. Our curriculum is also aligned with the Florida Early Learning Standards. Open door policy for parents. 13 months through PreK. Priority Daycare VPK participant. Our program is planned to develop each child’s sense of self worth, provide a wide range of experiences which will form the basis of future learning in all areas of the elementary school curriculum, provide an environment in which children are cared for and loved. www.bobbienoonans.com 8560 Crystal Ct., Fort Myers • 239-939-2255 28952 Mango Drive, Bonita Springs • 239-992-3133 1217 Cape Coral Pkwy, Cape Coral • 239-945-3366 (infant-preK) 3528 SW 3rd Ave., Cape Coral • 239-945-7001 Family News

Family News

August 2020 - 7

Preschools&Schools The Children’s Learning Center

Family focused and devoted to quality early childhood education, The Children’s Learning Center is a nationally accredited program operated by Child Care of Southwest Florida. The new 5,064square-foot facility enrolls children from infants through pre-kindergarten, as well as an after-school program for students up to 8 years old. Our child-centered classrooms encourage learning through play, helping children make sense of their world. The Children’s Learning Center is open 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. with free morning VPK. www.ccswfl.org 37 Barkley Circle, Fort Myers 239-267-1136

Bright Beginnings Early School

Bright Beginnings Early School is committed to the developmental needs of the young child and encourages growth in all areas: physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual.

As a Christian preschool, we want the children to experience what it means to be the child of a loving and dependable God. Since play is the “work” of children and the foundation of a good preschool, we recognize its value for young children. We are a Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) provider, offering both a free VPK option and a private pre-K session. We also have a unique Stepping Stones program for children who might not be ready for kindergarten. www.cypresslakeumc.com 8570 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers 239-482-1250 8 - August 2020

Brown Academy

Our school specializes in early childhood development, prioritizing our relationships with each family in meeting the social, emotional, physical and cognitive needs of each child in our care. Programs for children ages 18 months – 5 years. In addition to swim lessons, music programs, computers, taekwondo, dance classes and flexible schedules both part time and full time, we are the only school in Southwest Florida to offer a Full Spanish Immersion Program. APPLE Accredited!

12211 Towne Lake Dr., Fort Myers 239-332-1900 www.brownacademy.net

Cape Coral Parks & Recreation

The City of Cape Coral offers safe, fun and educational child care for children ages 3-5. Our two age appropriate rooms are full of educational fun including our Voluntary Pre Kindergarten program for those children who are four years of age on or before Sept. 1.

Monday-Friday: 8:30am-12:30: Free VPK Monday-Friday: 6:45am-6pm: $90 VPK Wrap Around Care Monday-Friday: 6:45am-6pm: $99 3 & 4 Year Old Class located near Sun Splash Water Park • 239-242-3965

The Community Children’s Center

Child Care of Southwest Florida’s The Community Children’s Center is one of the few nationally accredited child care centers in Lehigh offering a low staff-to-student ratio. Our highly trained teachers and staff encourage children to be independent thinkers and work to form strong partnerships with parents. Our goal is to provide the best early learning experience and prepare children for success in kindergarten and beyond. We care for infants up to 8 years old from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., offering free morning and afternoon VPK classes for 4 year olds. www.ccswfl.org 1260 Wings Way, Lehigh Acres 239-369-2220

Family News

Crestwell Higher Learning

Crestwell is an accredited private school with professional staff and degreed teachers. Our programs provide an academic curriculum for children from three years old through eighth grade. Hands on classes include: art, music, computer lab, character education, Spanish, library, reading/language arts, math, social studies, steam, exploration and discovery, along with organic outdoor gardening and science. At Crestwell, your child will be known, loved, and challenged. Crestwell School is a Florida not for profit 501(c)3 organization. www.crestwellschool.org 1901 Park Meadows Drive Fort Myers 239-481-4478

Family News

Growing Room Child Development

Growing Room Fort Myers and Growing Room Bonita Springs opens the door to a secure, quality, fun and nurturing educational environment based on a balanced partnership with parents. We are proud to offer a Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) “wrap-around� program for preschool children age 4, as well as in depth programs for all ages from infants through preschool. Our VPK program focuses on reading, writing and social skills and prepares children for Kindergarten. We also offer a school-age after school program with planned daily activities as well as homework assistance. www.GrowingRoomChildDevelopment.com 25151 Bernwood Drive, Bonita Springs 239-495-0045 8950 Gladiolus Road, Fort Myers 239-466-6646

August 2020 - 9

Preschools&Schools Joseph H. Messina Children’s Center

Providing reliability and flexibility for the 21st century parent who may work a non-traditional schedule, we care for children 1 to 8 years old and are open 6:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Operated by Child Care of Southwest Florida and located near Page Field, this unique and exciting nationally accredited center offers community gardens and a natural playscape. Teachers facilitate learning by allowing children to plan their explorations, building early literacy, language, math and science skills through play. We provide free, nutritious meals and offer VPK. www.ccswfl.org • 4650 Fowler St., Fort Myers • 239-278-1148

Milestones Learning Center

Milestones Learning Center, located in Estero, is open year round and able to offer safe, reliable care for children ages 8 weeks to 5 years of age. We are an academic based program that promotes learning through play. Our program includes: free breakfast, lunch and a snack, extended hours of care 7 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. and a full learning curriculum. We believe in small class sizes and low teacher to child ratios! Our teachers are trained professional who would love to help your child learn and grow. Call us today for a tour! www.milestones-estero.com 19850 Breckenridge Drive, Estero • 239-301-2962

Oasis Charter Schools

Students can begin in kindergarten and advance through grade 12 within the Oasis Charter School system. All four schools are top performing schools in Lee County with Oasis High School ranking in the top 2% nationally. Students who earn an education in the Oasis Charter School system go on to highly rated academic institutions, prestigious universities and impressive careers in a range of fields.

Learn more about us at www.TheOasisadvantage.com

10 - August 2020

P.A. Geraci Child Development Center

Child Care of Southwest Florida’s P.A. Geraci Child Development Center is a nationally accredited center dedicated to providing the best educational program and a safe, loving place for children and their families. We empower children by helping them develop, refine and expand knowledge, skills, language and social competence. We care for infants through 8 year olds, morning and afternoon care and offer free VPK for 4 year olds. Family style nutritious meals and snacks provided for free. Open 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. www.ccswfl.org 3713 Canal Street, Fort Myers 239-337-4995

Family News

Preschools&Schools Summit Christian School

We know everyone has concerns about where to send their children this fall. While the public school system is already over-crowded Summit Christian School is devoted to the safety and protection of your children by limiting our class sizes to 15 students for VPK through 8th grade. With a 15:1 student-teacher ratio we can maximize social distancing, ensure your child receives the time and attention necessary to provide an excellent Christian education, and still provide the social interactions that are vital to childhood development. In addition to this commitment, we are offering a COVID tuition waiver up to $1,500, for every child enrolled for the 2020-2021 school year. We would love to serve your family this year in a safe, small, and affordable environment. www.summitchristianschool.org 9065 Ligon Court, Fort Myers 239-482-7007 For more about local preschools, visit the Florida Department of Children & Families at www.MyFlFamilies.com

12 - August 2020

Wellington Academy

Are you considering virtual learning this year? We are offering a Virtual Learning School Age Camp! We will be on hand to help your school age child with their virtual learning, while everyone figures out the best way to go forward with school! The hours will be 9 to 3, we are also offering extended hours till 6pm. We have qualified staff to help your child navigate the new modes of learning. Wellington Academy has been serving Lee County families for over 35 years. We are the providers of quality child care for children ages birth through VPK. Our schools are nationally accredited and Gold Seal approved. Voted by parents as the Best Preschool in the 2011 Parent’s Choice awards, 2015, 2016 & 2016 Best of SWFL Recipients! Our VPK program has been extremely successful in fully preparing students for Kindergarten and beyond. Wellington Academy’s Kindergarten Readiness Rates have been in the top 5% in Lee County for the last 5 years. Our VPK program offers a safe wellequipped classroom environment for your child while focusing on all of the Kindergarten readiness standards. Our schools are conveniently located near your home and work place to serve you better.

Call or stop by today to reserve a spot for your child in our programs! www.wellingtonacademyschools.com.

Fort Myers, 5244 Ramsey Way • 239-275-8818 North Cape Coral, 1024 SE 10th St. • 239-574-8818 South Cape Coral, 4412 SE 15th Ave. • 239-549-8818

Family News

Family News

August 2020 - 13

Lee Schools delays

reopening to Aug. 31

Recognizing that parents value choice, the School District of Lee County created four instructional models to meet the different needs of local families.

• Face to Face • Lee Virtual School • Lee Home Connect • Home School Parents had until July 30 to make their choice.

School District of Lee County plans to reopen schools with the full array of services for the benefit of its students and families.

The Face-to-Face model will be an option for all students (PreK12). The district is committed to providing the safest environment possible for our students that choose the in-person instructional experience.

Elementary safety guidelines Elementary school (PreK-5) students will have the option to return to school for face-to-face instruction. This includes all services for Exceptional Student Education (ESE) and English Language Learner (ELL) students who are being served in an ESOL program (LY).

Students and families who select the face-to-face model will adhere to new safety guidelines and requirements to mitigate risk.

These advanced health protocols are detailed throughout the SDLC Reopening Schools

Toolkit. Students remain in their classroom all day, with the exception of outdoor recess and PE. Special area teachers (Art, Music, STEM, etc.) rotate to classrooms. Schools will develop a modified special area schedule.

Lunch is provided in the classroom and/or in the cafeteria if spacing and capacity are allowable. Recess will be conducted with the same students and teacher. Face coverings/masks will be required in the Face-to-Face model of instruction except when eating breakfast and lunch.

Guidelines for middle & high Middle and high school (grades 6-12) students will have the option to return to school for face-to-face instruction.

This includes all services for Exceptional Student Education (ESE) and English Language Learner (ELL) students who are being served in an ESOL program (LY).

Students and families who select the face-to-face model will adhere to new safety guidelines

and requirements to mitigate risk.

These advanced health protocols are detailed throughout the SDLC Reopening Schools Toolkit. Grades 6-10 will move by teams or grade level.

Lunch will be in groups with social distancing. Hallway lockers will not be used. Face coverings/masks will be required in the Face to Face model of instruction except when eating breakfast and lunch.

For more info, visit www.leeschools.net Family News

August 2020 - 15

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k c a B

What does this even mean?

to School

Kids & Masks

Covid Free Safe Study Zone 1

Super Cool Supplies Chocolate shaped calculator, smells like real chocolate. Wrapped in a real chocolate bar. Works with solar power. www.amazon.com

Hand Sanitizer Holder

Germs don't stand a chance! Capture attention and encourage frequent use by using this cute & convenient desktop hand sanitizer holder. www.microagebasics.com

Crayola Kids Face Mask

Featuring a washable, dual-layer fabric with a 3-D face design, secure fit adjustable ear straps, and a nose clip. 5 daily cloth face masks with unique color designs - 1 for each school day! www.amazon.com

2

We all know kids will be kids! Masks will be turned into slingshots, blindfolds and hats! They will be shared, lost and touched often....But.....

Let’s do our best to educate and encourage kids to follow the rules.

Choco-Calculo Chocolate Calculator

1

Be The Example

2

Practice

3

Design a safe, comfortable and quiet place to study without distractions.

3

Be consistent and stop complaining. Change is hard. The days of “Do as I say, not as I do” are over!

4

Acclimate children to face masks before asking them to wear one. Wear them around the house together.

Be Positive & Praise Use positive reinforcement when they wear a mask. Use praise or small rewards.

Set the Scene

Carve out a permanent corner that your child can personalize and decorate.

Light it Up

Try a combination of overhead light and a reading or desk lamp. “No Squinting allowed!”

Stock it Up

Try to keep supplies all in one spot so your child won't have an excuse not to study.

Organize

Have your child use boxes and folders to keep stuff tidy. Hang a calendar to help keep track of daily schedules & due dates.

Free Back to School Help Back 2 School - Backpack Giveaway Saturday, August 1 • 10 a.m.

Back-To-School Haircuts Sunday, August 30 • 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Free backpacks, book bags, shoes, school supplies, hot dogs & drinks. There also will be games and prizes.

TwinCutZ is hosting its annual free haircut day for students! In addition, they are also gifting every student a free backpack. Due to CDC precautionary guidelines, advance reservations are required.

Integrity Church SWFL 10421 Pennsylvania Ave, Bonita Springs, FL 34134 www.integritychurchswfl.com

TwinCutZ Naples, Cape Coral and three shops in Fort Myers www.twincutz.com

+

A

k c a B

What does this even mean?

to School

Kids & Masks

Covid Free Safe Study Zone 1

Super Cool Supplies Chocolate shaped calculator, smells like real chocolate. Wrapped in a real chocolate bar. Works with solar power. www.amazon.com

Hand Sanitizer Holder

Germs don't stand a chance! Capture attention and encourage frequent use by using this cute & convenient desktop hand sanitizer holder. www.microagebasics.com

Crayola Kids Face Mask

Featuring a washable, dual-layer fabric with a 3-D face design, secure fit adjustable ear straps, and a nose clip. 5 daily cloth face masks with unique color designs - 1 for each school day! www.amazon.com

2

We all know kids will be kids! Masks will be turned into slingshots, blindfolds and hats! They will be shared, lost and touched often....But.....

Let’s do our best to educate and encourage kids to follow the rules.

Choco-Calculo Chocolate Calculator

1

Be The Example

2

Practice

3

Design a safe, comfortable and quiet place to study without distractions.

3

Be consistent and stop complaining. Change is hard. The days of “Do as I say, not as I do” are over!

4

Acclimate children to face masks before asking them to wear one. Wear them around the house together.

Be Positive & Praise Use positive reinforcement when they wear a mask. Use praise or small rewards.

Set the Scene

Carve out a permanent corner that your child can personalize and decorate.

Light it Up

Try a combination of overhead light and a reading or desk lamp. “No Squinting allowed!”

Stock it Up

Try to keep supplies all in one spot so your child won't have an excuse not to study.

Organize

Have your child use boxes and folders to keep stuff tidy. Hang a calendar to help keep track of daily schedules & due dates.

Free Back to School Help Back 2 School - Backpack Giveaway Saturday, August 1 • 10 a.m.

Back-To-School Haircuts Sunday, August 30 • 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Free backpacks, book bags, shoes, school supplies, hot dogs & drinks. There also will be games and prizes.

TwinCutZ is hosting its annual free haircut day for students! In addition, they are also gifting every student a free backpack. Due to CDC precautionary guidelines, advance reservations are required.

Integrity Church SWFL 10421 Pennsylvania Ave, Bonita Springs, FL 34134 www.integritychurchswfl.com

TwinCutZ Naples, Cape Coral and three shops in Fort Myers www.twincutz.com

TrendingBookstoGoogle Publisher’s top picks

There Was an Old Pirate Who Swallowed a Fish

There was an old pirate . . . who swallowed a fish, a bird, a map, some gold, and even a whole pirate ship! Will the Old Pirate sink to the bottom of the deep, dark sea? Yo ho ho!

Watch his belly grow! Jennifer Ward's take on the "Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly" song is perfectly matched with Steve Gray's zany digital illustrations.

Beach Bugs

From picnic bugs and fireflies to rollercoaster bugs on a warm summer night, this next installment of the wildly popular Bugs series captures what everyone loves about summer!

Filled with pop-ups, flaps and lights!

Sam Sheep Can’t Sleep

An enjoyable story with phonics-based text, designed to help children crack the reading code with ease. Some pages have fold-put flaps to give the reader a chance to guess what will happen next.

Cow Can’t Sleep

Belle can't sleep. The hay is too scratchy. So she tiptoes around the farm to find the perfect place to sleep. But what if the best sleeping spots are already taken? Belle causes an uproar on the farm...until finally she finds the perfect place to sleep! Good night! Bright, hilarious digital artwork gives just the right touch to this silly bedtime story.

18 - August 2020

Family News

Family News

August 2020 - 19

Family Friendly Activities

for August

Always call ahead!

Back 2 School - Backpack Giveaway Integrity Church SWFL 10421 Pennsylvania Ave, Bonita Springs Saturday, August 1 • 10 a.m.

Back-to-School Party Edison Mall 4125 Cleveland Ave, Fort Myers Friday, August 7 • Noon

Free backpacks, book bags, shoes, school supplies, hot dogs & drinks. There also will be games and prizes. www.integritychurchswfl.com

Back-to-School is right around the corner. To get you excited, the first 100 kids will receive a swag bag full of fun goodies and take home crafts, and, we are raffling TWO brand new book bags full of school supplies Plus- for the first time ever: Art-in-the-Air Participants will be able to paint art on umbrella which will be on display in the Food Court - just look up! The theme is Back-toSchool..or colors...or whatever you want! Price: FREE for children ages 13 and under. A parent or guardian must be present at all times during this activity. In order to keep you safe during this artsy activity, we will be following CDC guidelines of social distancing! In order to participate, please pre-register by clicking the link above! This event is FREE to all participants. www.shopedisonmall.com

The Addams Family Norris Center 755 8th Ave S, Naples July 30 - August 1 “The Addams Family,” a comical feast that embraces the wackiness in every family, features an original story and every father’s nightmare: Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family – a man her parents have never met. If that wasn’t upsetting enough, Wednesday confides in her father and begs him not to tell her mother. Now, Gomez Addams must do something he’s never done before: Keep a secret from his beloved wife, Morticia. Everything will change for the whole family on the fateful night they host a dinner for Wednesday’s “normal” boyfriend and his parents. Performed by students ages 13 to 18. Visit www.gulfshoreplayhouse.org and select the “Buy Tickets” button along the top to purchase tickets.

Back to School Open House School of Rock Fort Myers 6900 Daniels Pkwy Suite C-15, Fort Myers Sunday, August 9 • 11 a.m.

Stop by for food, fun, live music, prize drawings, tours and enrollment discounts! Check out our studio! Meet our music instructors at School of Rock Fort Myers who teach guitar, drums, singing, piano, bass and more. 239-932-7625

20 - August 2020

Fun Friday Sun Splash Family Waterpark 400 Santa Barbara Blvd, Cape Coral Friday, August 7 • 10 a.m.

Soak in the fun with our Fun Fridays! Parent or grandparent gets in at a ½ off with a regular price admission of a child. Enjoy 14acres of water slides, pools and fun at Southwest Florida’s largest waterpark. Relax on our gently drifting Main Stream River Tube Ride. Thrill at the high-speed excitement of such scream-worthy slides as the Cape Fear, Fun-L-Tunnel, Zoom Flume and 457-foot Electric Slide & Power Surge. Free fall 5 1/2 stories down three distinctly different speed slides – the Thunder Bump, Terror Tube, and X-celerator. Let the little ones frolic at our Pirate’s Cove, grab a summertime snack at the Calypso Café or simply soak up the sun in a lounge chair poolside—there’s fun for everyone! No matter what kind of water activities you enjoy, Sun Splash Family Waterpark is the perfect place to splash. 239-574-0558

Family News

Back-To-School Haircuts Naples, Cape Coral and Fort Myers Sunday, August 30 • 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

TwinCutZ is hosting its annual free haircut day for students! In addition, they are also gifting every student a free backpack. Due to CDC precautionary guidelines, advance reservations are required. www.twincutz.com

Just for Fun Dog Show Rotary Park 1340-1372 Rose Garden Rd, Cape Coral Saturday, Aug. 15 • 9 a.m. - noon his year's categories are: Best Costume, Best Drool, Bad Hair Day Dog, Cutest Dog, Dog/Owner Look-a-Like, Best Kisser, Waggiest Tail, Best Trick, Best Biscuit Catcher and Favorite Rescue. For more information, call 239-549-4606.

Family News

Game Night William Austen Youth Center 315 SW 2nd Ave, Cape Coral Fridays • 6:15 - 9:45 p.m.

Kids in grades 2-8 can enjoy playing the latest video games plus a fun night of activities including arts and crafts, dancing, air hockey and laser tag. The cost is just $10 per person including pizza & prizes will be given out weekly. 239-242-3650

Little Leapers Sky Zone Trampoline Park 4181 S Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers Sundays & Wednesdays Little Leapers is perfect for the little ones to play, jump, and bounce at Sky Zone without the interference from the big kids. Open to jumpers 7 & younger. Children can enjoy fun games & activities, arts & crafts, storytime, and meet some of their favorite cartoon characters. 239-313-5448 August 2 & 5 : Out of this World GLOW August 9 & 12: Elmo & August 16 & 19: Olaf August 23 & 26: Moana & Aug 30: Peppa Pig

August 2020 - 21

After School Options Cape Coral T.I.G.E.R.S.

The Youth Center’s T.I.G.E.R.S. after school program is offered Monday through Friday from 2 - 6 p.m. for only $35 per week. Students will engage in homework assistance, daily exercise, sports and games and FREE busing is available from most schools. Extended care is offered until 8 p.m. for an additional $10/week.

315 SW 2nd Ave., Cape Coral located near Sun Splash Waterpark 239-242-3965

Dance Warehouse

Lee County's Premier Dance Studio! Fun, Professional instruction in all dance genres. Dance instruction from Children 18 months through Adult!

Fall Registration is open now! Fall classes begin August 10. One Time Registration Fee. Structured Combo Classes. Summer Classes through August 1. Summer Intensives through August 8.

10650 Metro Parkway, #201, Fort Myers 239-275-5678 www.thedancewarehouse.org

Coast Elite Gymnastics

Ready to get your kids moving while having fun? Put Coast Elite on your back to school schedule. Our 12,000 square foot, air-conditioned facility is fully equipped with state of the art gymnastics apparatus. Highlights include inground foam block and Resi landing pits, 30ft. Tumble-Track training trampoline and 18’ climbing ropes. We offer preschool, recreational, and women's competitive gymnastics programs. Also, offering cheer-based classes (tumbling and cheer basics for 5-18 year olds and boys classes. Check out our morning Open gym & Toddler open gym + our new Ninja fitness classes! New procedures and precautions in place to keep your little one safe, active, and having fun!

6360 Arc Way #1B, Fort Myers 239-936-8467 www.coastelite.com 22 - August 2020

Fort Myers Skatium

The Fort Myers Skatium provides a variety of affordable athletic programs and lessons to the public including Learn-to-Skate, Figure Skating, Ice Hockey, Roller Hockey, Indoor Soccer, Indoor Volleyball and Indoor Basketball.

2250 Broadway, Fort Myers 239-321-7510 www.cityftmyers.com

Family News

Southern Starz

Jump into fall at Southern Starz Gymnastics. Our Little Starz gymnastics program is geared toward gymnasts 1 - 5 years. These Starz will focus on beginning gymnastics skills while having fun in our 11,000 square foot facility. We offer gymnastic classes, tumbling classes, boys gymnastics and competitive gymnastics.

915 SE 11th Place, Cape Coral 239-574-0034 www.southernstarzgymnastics.org

USA Taekwondo Center

USA Taekwondo Center offers After School Program with transportation from local area schools. Students have supervised homework time and taekwondo class every day. We are open for a day camp on no school days and half days. Our center offers Taekwondo classes for ages 4 & up and we have classes for parents and adults also. Come in for a free trial class! For more info visit our website or call Master Kreis.

6251 Commerce Park Drive, Fort Myers 239-561-9470 www.UsaTaekwondoCenter.com

YMCA

Before and after school programs at the YMCA keep kids safe and introduce them to new friends and activities. Children are placed in ageappropriate groups and take part in a daily rotation of activities that include but is not limited to: homework time, arts & crafts, guest speakers, enrichment programs/specialty clubs, physical fitness activities, learning centers and much more.

27200 Kent Road, Bonita Springs • 239-221-7560 1360 Royal Palm Square Blvd., Fort Myers • 239-275-9622 www.swflymca.org

Family News

August 2020 - 23

GIDGETS, GADGETS AND GIZMOS!!

Florida-Opoly

Enjoy the sandy shorelines and stunning views with this game of Florida-Opoly. Buy favorite Florida properties, increase rent with beach houses, and trade for resorts. Don't forget to add hurricanes warnings and alligators to make things challenging!

This kit provides 24pcs of necessary explorer accessories including binoculars, compass, whistle, flashlight, magnifying glass, butterfly net, tweezers, insect clamp, bug collector, fake insects, note pad and drawstring bag for easily carrying outside and storage.

www.beallsflorida.com $24.97

Kids shake it up and work it out with the Magic Moves Electronic Wand! With 90 fun, physical commands, 26 different songs, sparkling light shows, and more, kids will be exercising their bodies to the tune of big time FUN!

Magic Moves Electronic Wand www.kohls.com $21.99

This funny frog puzzle actually glows in the dark! The 60 puzzle pieces fit together perfectly to create a chuckle-inspiring scene featuring all kinds of frogs hopping around a pond with a great big magician frog in the middle.

Glow in the Dark Abracadabra Puzzle www.fatbraintoys.com $9.95

24 - August 2020

Kaqinu kids Adventure Kit www.amazon.com

$22.99

The ultimate riding pleasure for all little scooter fans.

Kid's Scooter Vespa GTS

www.sip-scootershop.com

$155.92

A versatile children's home shoe sizer used to measure kids' feet at home. Mark each time you measure your child's feet with a permanent marker, and date it to create a unique foot growth chart keepsake.

Foot Measuring Device www.amazon.com $20.99

Family News

America's favorite hot cocoa brand, Swiss Miss, is partnering with Lucky Charms on Magically Delicious Hot Cocoa. This new hot cocoa includes all the iconic Lucky Charms marshmallows including hearts, stars, horseshoes, clovers and blue moons, unicorns, rainbows, and tasty red balloons.

Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa Mix with Lucky Charms www.swissmiss.com $1.98

Bring the carnival right into your kitchen by creating fluffy, melt-in-yourmouth cotton candy. Use your favorite hard candies or flossing sugar to create a fluffy cotton candy cones the whole family will love.

Retro Cotton Candy Maker www.amazon.com

Become a professional clay artist! The kit included cans of soft, lightweight, non-sticky, nontoxic, and stain-free clay - Perfect for young artists taking their fist step into the magical world of clay creativity.

Hey Clay Model Kit - Animals www.google.com/shopping

$16.95

20 seconds hand washing or 2 minutes for teeth brushing. For effective personal hygiene, meet the recommended brushing/washing time. Light flashes faster when time is almost up. Red light turns on when time is up.

Teeth/Hand-Washing Timer www.amazon.com $17.99

Family News

$61.85

Little foodies will love this kit that includes ingredients needed to brew up a fresh batch of root beer.

Root Beer Science Kit

www.uncommongoods.com $16

Every kit includes an activity booklet containing creative outlets to help children deal with their emotions in between the pages of fun! Children will eagerly open their boxes to find a wide variety of activities to do, from coloring, to magic tricks, to fidget toys, talking cards and more.

Feel Better Gift Box

www.openthejoy.com $49.99

August 2020 - 25

Watching for symptoms of COVID-19

People with COVID19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness.

Symptoms may appear 2 - 14 days after exposure to the virus.

People with these symptoms may have COVID-19: • Fever or chills • Cough • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing • Fatigue

• Muscle or body aches • Headache • New loss of taste or smell • Sore throat • Congestion or runny nose • Nausea or vomiting • Diarrhea This list does not include all possible symptoms. CDC will continue to update this list as we learn more about COVID-19.

The Florida Department of Health reminds Floridians to wear face coverings in any setting where social distancing is not possible and refrain from participating in gatherings of more than 10 people.

26 - August 2020

Family News

Family News

August 2020 - 27

Arts&Entertainment

Nik Wallenda’s Daredevil Rally The “King of the High Wire” – Nik Wallenda brought his Daredevil Rally Drive-in Thrill Show to the Hertz Arena parking lot July 9 - 12.

The shows featured Wallenda and his wife, Erendira Wallenda, as well as internationally renowned daredevils to include FMX freestyle jumpers, BMX riders, sway pole performers, motorcycles in a steel globe, a wheel of steel and a human cannonball.

With 11 Guinness World Records and a list of never before seen death defying feats, Wallenda has performed live in every state in the USA and all over the world.

From crossing the Grand Canyon and Niagara Falls to walking blindfolded between two towers in Chicago, he personifies the Wallenda Family legacy of “Never Giving Up” and has time and time again proven that “Fear is a Liar.”

Sand sculpting postponed until 2021 on Fort Myers Beach After careful consideration, the 34th Annual American Sand Sculpting Championship has been postponed. The plans for the annual November event have been difficult to move forward with given the uncertainty that is currently surrounding outdoor events and festivals.

“We are extremely disappointed to be making this announcement,” stated Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce executive director Jacki Liszak. “The popularity of this event and the growing interest in it has made this decision very difficult to make. Planning and running this 28 - August 2020

event takes a year of preparation and teamwork from all of the event partners. Given the current challenges with COVID-19, we feel that postponing the event and looking forward to 2021 is in the best interest of everyone involved.”

Plans are underway for a potential virtual event that will give fans an opportunity to enjoy the sculptors at work in a live remote feed via Facebook.

More details will be announced as plans continue to evolve.

For updated information and to stay in touch with the American Sand Sculpting Championship, follow them at www.fmbsandsculpting.com or at www.facebook.com/AmericanSandSculpting/ Family News

CULTURAL PARK THEATRE COMPANY PRESENTS

The Gunterberg Charitable Foundation’s

2020-2021 BROADWAY SERIES

LIMITED SEATING • SOCIAL DISTANCING 528 Cultural Park Blvd.

Cape Coral

239-772-5862

www.CulturalParkTheater.com

ALL TICKETS ON SAL

E NOW

...But Wait, There’s More!

Projects, Pinterest and Random Factoids

#Cuteness Overload

Fluffy Slime

Fluffy slime is really just regular slime made with shaving cream.

I Can Read Book Club

2/3 cup of Elmer’s White Glue 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda 1/4 Cup Water 2-3 cups Shaving Cream 1.5 Tablespoons Contact Lens Solution* Liquid Food Coloring

Introduce children to the wonderful world of reading!

Join the I Can Read Book Club and receive 2 Free books for only $1 shipping and handling.

Get awesome children's books delivered to your door every month that will engage & excite your child at any reading skill level.

*We recommend using Renu fresh or Equate.

www.facebook.com/pg/thebestideasforkids

1. Add your white glue to a bowl.

2. Add you water and baking soda. Mix. 3. Add your shaving cream. Mix 4. Add your food coloring until you are satisfied with the color. Mix. 5. Add in your contact solution. Mix.

www.icanread.com

Looking for silly kid shirts & some unique onesies?

These Unisex super soft Baby Onesies are the perfect product for a Baby! Dress up your baby with the funniest, most sarcastic onesies that will definitely make anyone who sees your baby laugh! www.sarcasticme.com

Bedazzle it...

Make 3 batches with 3 different colors & turn your slime into

Unicorn Fluffy Slime!

#Mamma Hacks Note: Making slime is a science experiment and safety precautions should still be made when creating slime. Adults should make the slime. Slime should not be placed in the mouth. Always wash hands before and after playing with the slime.

DIY - Yogurt Pops Ingredients: 3 containers of yogurt different flavors 3/4 cup juice separated (1/2 c, orange juice and 1/4 c. lime juice)

3 Tablespoons honey

Monster Spray

Eliminate your child's late night terrors with our full line up of Monster Spray Repellent Labels. Instantly turn your favorite home air freshener bottle into monster repellent to ease any child's fear. Simple easy-on, reusable labels that are waterproof, durable and make for an easy, do-it-yourself night time parenting tool to allow your child peace of mind.

mmm.yourcupofcake.com

1. Use three small bowls and put a container of yogurt into each.

2. Stir in 1/4 c juice and 1 tablespoon honey into each one.

3. Layer the yogurt into paper cups, and place in the freezer for 1 hour.

4. Gently push a popsicle stick into each one.

5. Let freeze for a few more hours or over night.

6. Peel paper cups off pops and serve.

#Emoji Decoder

HandsomeFrogCreative.com $12.95

The "Disappointed But Relieved" Face - not crying 30 - August 2020

The “Rolling Eyes” Face is used to show boredom - not confusion

The "Shocked" Face not knocked out

The “That’s so gross!” Face not sad face that is green Family News

Fun Finds

#KIDVENTOR Create the next great Fat Brain Toy Contest

Kids ages 6-13 get to submit toy inventions for the chance to have theirs manufactured and sold around the world! Are your child’s maker skills up to the task? Encourage your child to think hard, get creative, get INNOVATIVE, and then, once they’re convinced they’ve got a winning idea, come back here and click the button to begin the submission process. Our toy experts will pick the top entries and a public vote will determine the Top 5. Then, our judges will deliberate, they'll choose a winner, and the winner will be announced on October 6th, 2020!

Chance to win:

$2,500 Scholarship • $500 In Toys Trip for Two to New York Toy Fair License Agreement To Enter: www.fatbraintoys.com/kidventor.cfm

World's Cutest Rescue Dog 2020

Enter your rescue dog now through August 10.

Upload a photo of your dog in the submission form, then tell us how adopting a pet changed your life - and theirs. Don't forget to give a shout out to the rescue organization that helped you find your canine companion.

Chance to win:

A feature in PEOPLE magazine • Year's supply of PEDIGREE dog food $1,000 donation to the pet rescue organization of the winner's choice To Enter: https://people.com/worlds-cutest-rescue-dog-contest Family News

August 2020 - 31