Miami Kids Magazine issue 602

February-March 2022

NUMBER 602

2022

11

PAG.

The Magic of Kindness

PAG.

22

Feature

15

Family •

Museums, Exhibits and Landmark Guide Success starts with you!

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24

PAG.

The Dinosour’s have arrived in Miami with Dino Safari

PAG.

Parenting

Summer Camp Guide sponsored by iSwim Academy

Community

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Health

Keeping MomsTo-Be and New Moms Safe and Healthy

6

Miami Kids Magazine February-March 2022

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36

PAG.

PAG.

13

•

We are Stronger Together.

Looking for relaxation?

Learn about THesis Hotel.

What is a PPEC?.

40

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PAG.

21

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• Valentine’s Gift Guide •

Social

Miami Kids Magazine and City of South Miami Santa’s Workshop followed by the Parade of the Elves.

Miami Kids Magazine and City of Miami Winter Wonderland Drive-through.

Breakfast with Santa at Neiman Marcus

This is our first issue in 2022 and we are super excited for all the excellent content that we are preparing for you!

PUBLISHER - EDITOR Karla C. Richey

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Enrique Chavez Pincilotti

Stay tuned to our social media pages for updates on our great surprises for this new year.

In this issue we will transport back millions of years with Dino Safari, who are in Miami at Bayside marketplace. We were able to visit the exhibit with a few of our readers and were able to meet and interact with more than 30 life-sized dinosaurs, including the T. Rex of North America and the Spinosaurus from Africa. Don’t miss the article on pages 22 and 23.

Also, don’t miss checking out our Spring and Summer Camp guide sponsored by iSwim Academy! We know how important it is for you to learn ahead of time about different programs for your children to keep them busy and active during vacation time. Check the guide number 1 on pages 24 and 25.

This month is all about Love. The first place where we receive love is at home, with our parents and family members. This love is the kind that will make us grow confident and to be kind with others. On page 11, we have a must-read article by Diane Landsberg who wrote about the magic of kindness.

On pages 36 and 37 we have a Valentines Gift Guide! Nothing better than to have a special surprise for our loved ones. We have many ideas to put a smile on the faces of or kids, partners, and friends.

If you are looking to do something fun on the weekends with the kids, check out our Museum, Activities and Landmark Guide on page 15.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Diane Landsberg The American Heart Association Coach Nick Bevilacqua Nelly Lusich Maria Lusich Carlos Ordoqui

SPANISH EDITOR Nelly Lusich

MARKETING AND SALES Karla C. Richey

EDITORIAL ASSOCIATE Claudia Del Castillo

PHOTOGRAPHY Enrique Tubio

DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT Noor Barakat

GRAPHIC DESIGN Jhonn Rivera

Sending you much love for you and your family!

Karla C. Richey

WWW.MIAMIKIDSMAGAZINE.COM @MiamiKidsMagazine @MiamiKidsMagazine © 2022 Miami Kids, LLC. All rights reserved.

Issue 602. Miami Kids™ Magazine is published bimonthly in the USA. Reproduction in whole or in partial without written permission is prohibited.

Publisher is not responsible for claims and content of advertisements.

8

Miami Kids Magazine February-March 2022

By Diane Landsberg

THE of

Kindness

It has been stated that “it is not our job to toughen our children to face a cruel and heartless world. It’s our job to raise children who will make the world a little less cruel and heartless”.

Let’s focus on teaching our children to be kind, a simple word, but an emotion and action that can change lives. If the word “kind” comes to mind, what memories does it bring up? Can you recall the last act of kindness that you experienced, or that you implemented?

February is the month of Valentines Day, the holiday of love. Let’s focus on that. Covid has brought out the worst behavior in us. We

witness it every day as we drive, shop, observe social media and in the news. We have become angry, rude, nasty, and too often violent in reaction to being isolated. Politics and fear do not help.

But, we have the power and hopefully the desire to change it. We need to focus on being helpful, loving, accepting and especially, kind to others. The kindest people were not born that way, they made the choice to be that way. They choose to believe in goodness, because they have seen firsthand why compassion is so necessary, and they have experienced why tenderness is so important in this world.

You can train your brain to see the good in everything. Positivity is a choice. The happiness of your life depends on the quality of your thoughts and actions. It is also important to remember to be kind to yourself. Be gentle and forgiving, first to yourself and then to others. If we disagree, especially in this current, volatile world, we can still be kind to each other. Our nice behavior can remind others that there are still good people in the world.

Let’s all move forward with the focus and determination to demonstrate positive, loving, kind behavior. I can guarantee that you will feel the impact and feel better about yourself in the process, knowing that you may have brightened someone’s day along with your own.

February-March 2022 Miami Kids Magazine

11

By The American Heart Association

Keeping

Moms-To-Be

and new

Moms Safe

and A healthy pregnancy is best for both mom and baby. Pregnancy and childbirth can put a woman’s health at risk, but many pregnancyassociated deaths can be avoided.

BEFORE GETTING PREGNANT It’s important to understand your medical risks and to get as healthy as possible before pregnancy. Talk to your health care team about: DURING PREGNANCY • Visit a health care provider regularly • Take medication as prescribed • Reduce stress and manage anxiety • Monitor weight gain • Avoid unhealthy habits such as smoking, alcohol and illegal drugs • Follow extra precautions if you’re older than 35 • Whether you have any signs of heart disease • Your family health history • Your blood pressure • Whether you should lose or gain weight, and if so, how • Getting 150 minutes of physical activity per week • Healthy eating • Sodium in your diet • Whether prenatal vitamins are recommended

• •

Healthy

Quitting any unhealthy substances, such as tobacco, alcohol, and marijuana or other drugs Safety in your home environment

IN AND AROUND DELIVERY • Watch for changes and take action • If you have concerns about your health or the health of your baby, consult your health care provider immediately • Some complications show up days after delivery • Heart Rate and blood pressure normally decrease within 48 hours postpartum • Blood pressure may increase again 3-6 days later due to fluid shifts. During this period, you should be monitored for complications.

AFTER DELIVERY • Make your health a priority • Get continued medical care • Inform new health care providers about the pregnancy • Monitor your mental health • Find ways to be active • Find time to sleep • Eat nutritious food • Rely on a support network Learn the Warning Signs It’s important for you to stay on top of your own health. Many heart-related problems can happen in the days and weeks after delivery — even up to a year later. Some symptoms, such as fatigue and mild pain, are expected after childbirth. But strange or sudden changes may be a sign of stroke, heart problems or other dangerous conditions. Seek medical care right away if you have any worrisome symptoms during or after pregnancy, including:

Severe or worsening headache • Blurred vision or other vision changes • Feeling dizzy, faint or disoriented • A fever over 100.4 F • Extreme weakness or fatigue • Vaginal bleeding or foul discharge • Abdominal pain • Chest pain or racing heart • Rapid or labored breathing • Severe nausea or vomiting • Unusual swelling of hands or face • Redness, pain or swelling in arms or legs • A slowing or stopping of fetal movement • Severe anxiety or depression • Thoughts of harming yourself or your child • General ill feeling.

February-March 2022 Miami Kids Magazine

13

Young at Art Museum https://youngatartmuseum.org/

MUSEUMS, EXHIBITS and LANDMARKS GUIDE MIAMI-DADE COUNTY Perez Art Museum Spend the day with family at Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)! Explore the expansive modern and contemporary art collection, create art with Take-nMakes, dine at the waterfront Verde restaurant, find unique gifts at PAMM Shop, and enjoy the outdoor sculpture garden. Reserve your tickets today: pamm. org/visit Frost Science Museum Ignite your curiosity at the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, Miami’s only planetarium, aquarium and science museum! Interactive exhibitions, animals and cutting-edge technology are all part of the adventure ahead. Open daily and located in Downtown Miami, Frost Science is a museum for all ages and interests.

Website: https://www.frostscience.org/ Miami Children’s Museum Miami Children’s Museum is excited to announce a NEW play-and-learn exhibit, starting Saturday January 15th visitors step into the pages of Eric Carle’s colorful picture books. His classic “Very” series, all illustrated in his hand-painted tissue paper collage technique, introduces five special insects who take journeys of discovery.

Address: 980 Macarthur Causeway, Miami, FL 33132 Phone: 305-373-KIDS (5437) Website: https://www. miamichildrensmuseum.org/exhibits/veryeric-carle-exhibit

Aventura Arts & Cultural Center Broadway, concerts, comedy, classical, variety, theater and family all performing live and in-person at the intimate, beautiful waterfront Aventura Arts & Cultural Center.

It’s Easy to Order Tickets: In Person: Aventura Arts & Cultural Center Box Office 3385 NE 188th Street, Aventura, FL 33180 Wednesday – Saturday, 1:30pm – 5pm and 1 hour prior to the performance.

Phone: 877.311.7469 Online: aventuracenter.org

History Miami Journey back in time at HistoryMiami Museum, a Smithsonian Affiliate located in downtown Miami! Hop aboard a 1920s trolley or dress up as a pirate and learn up to 10,000 years of history all in one place.

HistoryMiami Museum connects people by telling the stories of Miami’s communities, individuals, places and events. Address: 101 West Flagler Street Miami, FL 33130 Web page: www.historymiami.org

Dino Safari The exciting, walk-thru experience features dozens of lifelike, animatronic dinosaurs in a pre-historic Pangea supercontinent setting. Simple, affordable ticket packages allow passengers in a single vehicle to enjoy the show together. Follow the adventure on social media!

Instagram: @dinosafariusa | #dinosafari Website: www.dinosafari.com Jewish Museum of Florida https://jmof.fiu.edu/ Miami Seaquarium https://www.miamiseaquarium.com/ The Wolfsonian https://wolfsonian.org/ Lowe Art Museum https://www.lowe.miami.edu Vizcaya Museum and Gardens https://vizcaya.org Museum of Contemporary Art North Miami https://mocanomi.org/

BROWARD COUNTY Museum Of Discovery and Science Get connected to inspiring science with a visit to MODS in downtown Fort Lauderdale. Discover stimulating STEM activities, exciting exhibit exploration, super science shows and wild animal encounters, and mind-blowing Makerspace activities across 150,000 square feet of interactive fun. Experience a spectacular IMAX documentary film on the largest screen in south Florida. Website: mods.org

Historic Stranahan House Museum https://stranahanhouse.org/ Coral Springs Museum of Art https://coralspringsmuseum.org/ Flamingo Gardens https://www.flamingogardens.org/ Bonnet House and Gardens https://www.bonnethouse.org/ Butterfly World https://www.butterflyworld.com/

PALM BEACH COUNTY South Florida Science Center and Aquarium https://www.sfsciencecenter.org/ Norton Museum of Art https://www.norton.org/ Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens https://morikami.org/ Boca Raton Museum of Art https://bocamuseum.org/ Lion Country Safari https://www.lioncountrysafari.com

CENTRAL FLORIDA Peppa Pig Theme Park “Step into the playful World of Peppa Pig for the ultimate day of adventure! Snort, giggle & play in a theme park, exclusively designed for “little piggies” with multiple interactive rides & attractions, themed play areas complete with “muddy puddles” water play and fun live shows!” https://www.peppapigthemepark.com/ florida/ Icon Park Orlando Your dream vacation to Orlando, Florida is not complete until you visit ICON Park and ride The Wheel. Even if you’re an Orlando local, there’s plenty to do and see in this magnificent city. ICON Park is an entertainment complex featuring fun and games for the whole family. You can spend your day exploring over 40 amazing restaurants, funky bars, boutique shops, and amusement park rides. Whatever your interests or favorite ways to have fun, ICON Park is the place for you. Learn more about how you can spend your wellearned vacation at our premier attractions.

Legoland LEGOLAND is built just for kids with more than 50 fun ride rides, interactive shows and brick-tastic attractions inspired by popular LEGO brands!. https://www. legoland.com/ Crayola Experience Discover the magic of color at Crayola Experience, Crayola’s premier, one-of-a-kind family attraction!

Dozens of hands-on, creative activities and a full day of fun awaits families in Orlando, Florida. Bigger, brighter and bolder than ever, the colorful adventures of Crayola Experience help kids and adults alike explore art and technology, express their creativity and experience color in a whole new way. Website: https://www. crayolaexperience.com/orlando

February-March 2022 Miami Kids Magazine

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By Coach Nick Bevilacqua

ask, how many of your “New Year’s Resolutions” are you still focused on?

Someone mi ght ask and say to me, “We live in Miami, what is this springtime you speak of? It’s either summer or summer lite here.”

Springtime is upon us once again, and Covid is still a part of our lives, although it has changed forms, countries, priorities, and even changed the name. Sounds like a metaphor for life to me… Spring represents anew, a time for fertilizing, watching growth, and preparing for the harvest. That is what our ancestors did, before they were distracted by what others were doing or going through, a radio, TV, phone, computer, tablet, website, influencer…

So, my springtime question for you is, what are you going to start anew today? I could

do this at least one time in our lives), AND you KEEP stepping. Springtime is the reminder that you can start over or get back up and keep going, with one step at a time.

My prayer this spring is for you to find one seed you’d like to replant and start over with. For it is with one seed a dense forest can grow. Spend some time in prayer and meditation on yourself. Where can you improve yourself and contribute to your success? Tend to your fields, prepare your soil, plant your seed, cultivate / feed / fertilize with good food, care for yourself, respect yourself and your seed, watch it grow…

I want to insert the little emoji here where my mind is blown… I work in a pool; it does seem like it is some form of summer here most often. So, what I am trying to say to you, is springtime can occur anytime.

Springtime is your time to start fresh, to start over, to do it again differently, to do it again better. See, success, in anything you do, whether it is financially, relationship, parenting, learning an instrument, etc. comes with baby steps and small wins. Success is not one HUGE game or HUGE win. Success is the journey of 1,000 miles that starts with one step and includes a ton of other steps, mixed in with crawling, running, jumping, flying, sprinting, getting pushed down or around, crying in a fetal position (yes, we all

February-March 2022 Miami Kids Magazine

17

We Are Stronger Together

By Nelly Lusich

From December 3rd to the 21st, the BOSS Store in Coral Gables conducted a Toy Drive to benefit The Rotary Club of Miami. The kickoff of the toy drive was on December 3rd with a special ceremony in the store as many community leaders came to listen to a great interview conducted by Karla Richey publisher of Miami Kids Magazine, with Mrs. Noreen Timoney, president of the club, and Mr. Robert Shelley, past District Governor of the Club.

W

ith this special event hosted by BOSS in partnership with Miami Kids Magazine, we were able to help the Rotary Club to accomplish its mission of supporting hundreds of charities and helping thousands of people through its many community service projects and philanthropy in almost a century of service.

The final beneficiary of the Toy Drive was The Miami Lighthouse Academy. Miami Lighthouse is the first vision rehabilitation educational institution in the U.S. using the international HighScope

Curriculum, and this is the first time that HighScope has been applied to blind learners in a fully inclusive model.

Robin and Susan Shelley, representing the Rotary Club of Miami, Mrs. Yusleidy Cabrera, representing BOSS and Karla Richey, representing Miami Kids Magazine, visited the pre-school in-person to bring all the toys and provide breakfast for the children and school staff. Santa and Sharky were dancing and giving the toys to the children.

February-March 2022 Miami Kids Magazine

21

Scan me to purchase tickets!

22 Miami Kids Magazine February-March 2022

Jake and jordan Glandt with their mom SandI.

Elizaveta Molina, Azalea Gray , Dimitry, Lorenzo, Dominic angulo & jake.

I

A WALK-THRU ADVENTURE

magine Exhibitions brings a dinosaurfilled experience to the Miami – Fort Lauderdale area for local families and visitors to get up-close-and-personal with larger-than-life replicas of the most fascinating, fan-favorite prehistoric inhabitants! Dino Safari: A Walk-Thru Adventure is open in Downtown Miami’s Bayside MarketPlace.

In this walk-through adventure, attendees will meet and interact with more than 30 life-sized dinosaurs, including the T.Rex of North America and the Spinosaurus from Africa. With the help of scientifically accurate installations and realistic moving animatronics, Dino Safari will transport guests back millions of years to get up close and personal with prehistoric creatures in a replica of their natural habitat.

The experience showcases how dinosaurs evolved over time and offers hands-on challenges for visitors to solve, along with depictions of natural elements that often occurred during this time, such as earthquakes. The thrilling adventure features captivating VR technology, spectacular installations and an interactive space for children.

The exhibition was created by Atlantabased Imagine Exhibitions in collaboration

with world-renowned Ph.D. Dinosaur Paleontologist Gregory M. Erickson, who is one of only 150 full-time professional dinosaur paleontologists in the world.

fans are the young toddlers just learning to say the very long and complicated names.

Others are the early elementary school kids who are fascinated. Then the adult are those fans of dinosaur movies! Children under 2 do not need a ticket to attend. The duration of the expedition, on average, takes about 30-45 minutes to walk through the entire experience. Visitors are welcome to take less or more time to enjoy all of the dinosaurs.

“South Florida families will not want to miss Dino Safari,” said Tom Zaller, CEO of Imagine Exhibitions. “From the Sauropod Slide to interactive games and the sheer awe of giant moving dinosaurs, it’s the perfect activity for dinosaur fans of all ages to become immersed IMMERSIVE DINOSAUR in an entertaining EXPERIENCE and educational globetrotting dinosaur ENTERTAINS AND adventure.”

Tickets are sold in halfhour increments. You may arrive at any point during that 30-minute window. The last ticket is sold 1 hour prior to TRANSPORTS closing time. Holiday You will be able to FAMILIES BACK TO hours are subject to experience a variety of dinosaurs: animatronic PREHISTORIC AGES! change. The ticket prices start at $15.50 and digital, spending time with dinosaurs in all-new Virtual Before you leave, don’t forget to stop by the Reality experience . You can interact with amazing retail store where you can purchase engaging activities such as measuring up a wide variety of merchandise including mini to a dinosaur, uncovering fossils and more. dinosaurs, plush toys, books and more!.

Travel the Pangea National Park to seven different locations across the globe. Receive Location: Bayside Marketplace located a passport and take off on an exciting on the second level — 401 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132. Please visit dinosafari.com expedition to help save a baby To Rex! to purchase tickets or scan the QR code on A walk through adventure is exciting for the top left of page 22. dino lovers of all ages. The most common

February-March 2022 Miami Kids Magazine

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GUIDE # 1

Sponsored by

ISWIM ACADEMY iSwim Academy, managed by Coach Nick, is a fun way for children to learn and improve pool safety and swimming. The classes are 30 minutes long and iSwim Academy offers both private and group classes. The academy offers a more advanced workout program for kids focused on swimming.

Phone: 305-456-0518 Email: info@iswimsomi.com Website: www.iswimsomi.com

REAL FOOD ACADEMY In our Summer Cooking Camp, we teach your kids to have fun, eat healthy, develop or hone their cooking skills, experiment in the kitchen, improve math and reading skills...all in a fun way, while expanding their culinary palate.

Address: 570 NE 81st Street, Miami FL 33138 Phone: (786) 395-0355 Website: https://therealfoodacademy.com/ summer-camp/

SPRING CAMP AT FROST SCIENCE MUSEUM Unleash the power of science through weeklong summer camps at the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science from June 13 - August 12.

Children ages 4-14 will discover the physics of light, solve a mystery, and launch into space for a summer they’ll never forget. Reserve their spot today!

Website: www.frostscience.org

MAD SCIENCE Our interactive and engaging camp programs allow kids to explore the different fields of science in an interesting and entertaining way. Fun and educational!

Your registration could be inspiring the next Einstein or MarieCurie!

Website: https://miami.madscience.org/

24 Miami Kids Magazine February-March 2022

JUNIOR DOLPHINS CAMP The Junior Dolphins Summer Football Camp allows boys and girls to spend the summer training like their favorite Dolphins players. This five (5) day camp experience allows junior athletes of all levels to strengthen their football skills while learning in a fun and safe environment.

CAMP BENEFITS: • Camp Shirt • Coaching by Junior Dolphins Coaches • Appearances by Dolphins Alumni (subject to availability) • Dolphins Preseason game ticket • Chance to win Dolphins prizes and giveaways • Camp certificate • Access to discounted regular season Dolphins tickets • Official camper photo Website: https://juniordolphinsfootball.com/

GLOBAL CONNECTION Global Connection International School is proud to offer a fun, interactive Summer Camp experience for children ages 1 to 12. Our spectacular Summer Camp will offer an array of activities for your children to enjoy.

Activities include cooking projects, music education classes, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish classes, water splash days, gardening, field trips and more!

Join us for a summer full of fun and exploration!

Address: 2401 SW 3rd Ave, Miami, FL 33129 Phone: (786) 476-2105 Website: www.globalconnectionpreschool. com MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY AND SCIENCE SUMMER CAMP DISCOVERY Scientastic summer starts NOW! The Museum of Discovery & Science’s Camp Discovery, sponsored

by Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, offers a S.A.F.E. (Science. Affordable. Fun. Educational) and unforgettable STEM summer camp. The program provides the ultimate age-appropriate (ages 6-12) camp experience ranging from MODS Space Adventures to Dinos in Motion and STEAM Makerspace to Zombie Survival Training and more.

Website: mods.org/summercamp WHITE TIGER & DRAGON White Tiger and Dragon Martial Arts offers kempo karate/brazilian jiu-jitsu/mixed martial arts/kickboxing and self-defense. These classes promote a sense of physical and psychological well-being. The main goal is for students to learn independence and selfconfidence that can be used inside and outside of the dojo.

Phone: (305) 505-4919 Address: 3051 SW 28th St, Coconut Grove, FL 33133

AREA STAGE COMPANY Live your Broadway dreams onstage this summer at Area Stage Company! Welcoming students safely and enthusiastically, ASC will offer its extremely popular BROADWAY BITES Musical Theatre Summer Camp as well as an opportunity to be a part of a Broadwayquality theatrical production with Disney’s Beauty and the Beast JR.. Limited spots are available to ensure small groups and individual attention! BROADWAY BITES weekly sessions: June 13th - August 26th, Beauty and the Beast JR. session: June 13th - July 10th (305) 666-2078 Website: https://www.areastage.org/summer

PINECREST DANCE PROJECT, DANCE & CRAFTS SPRING & SUMMER CAMP Kids will experience high-energy fun, athleticism and art expression at Pinecrest Dance Project’s Dance & Crafts Camp! Days will be filled with a variety of dance styles such as Acro, Salsa, Flamenco, Hip-Hop, and Ballroom. Campers will also enjoy arts and crafts, learn theater techniques, and practice make-up and costume design. Ages 5 to 12, Spring from March 21st to 25th, Summer June 13th to August 19th, Half Day: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon or 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., Full Day: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 15% discount when you purchase 4 weeks or more.

For more information visit our website www. pinecrestdanceproject.com

MIAMI LIGHTHOUSE FOR THE BLIND Miami Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired provides fun and educational summer camp programs for blind and visually impaired youth and their sighted peers. Through a variety of instructional programs children ages one to twenty-two have the opportunity to participate in community field trips and specialized activities that promote independence and academic development.

For more information, please call Miami Lighthouse Learning Center for Children™ @ 786.362.7483

CRAYOLA EXPERIENCE Crayola Experience Home Adventure provides videoguided, interactive activities – all from the comfort of your home.

Each kit features Crayola FUN with: • AN ENGAGING STORYLINE • A VIDEO WALKTHROUGH • ALL SUPPLIES INCLUDED Order online and we’ll ship all the Crayola goodies, directions and video links directly to your doorstep!

Seasonal kits also available while supplies last.

Website: https://www.crayolaexperience.com/ at-home-shop

NATIONAL FLAG FOOTBALL National Flag Football Join the Nation’s #1 NFL Flag Football Program for Boys & Girls Ages 4–14! If we don’t play, you don’t pay. Practices held same day as games. Our Hollywood, Wellington/West Palm Beach, Boca Raton and Fort Lauderdale are a 7-week season with games played ONLY on Saturday/Sunday’s.

Coaches are screened and trained. Registration includes NFL Flag team jersey & flag belt for players to keep. Spring season begins April 11. Deadline is February 6th. Register online at www.flflagfootball. com

LES AILES DU DESIR Les Ailes du Desir | LADD offers an array of circus and related disciplines, including ground and aerial classes, dance, gymnastics, and general fitness classes. Our classes are for everyone – from the curious beginner, to the practicing professional, for both children and adults! Circus is a fun form of fitness and performing art for anyone. With top of the line instructors and a huge studio space, LADD is your one-stop destination for all things circus!

Phone: (786) 478-5891 Email: info@lesailesdudesir.org Website: https://laddmiami.org/

M I A M I B E A C H A L L S TA R S S U M M E R PROGRAM A FREE 9-week summer program with hands-on, fun activities in the following areas: STEAM, life skills, business, fitness, academic support, leadership, team building, and more! Weekly field trips to fun and inspiring locations. Transportation and meals provided daily. CDC COVID safety procedures strictly followed Phone: 305.673.7491 Email: AllstarsProgram@miamibeachfl.gov

GREATER MIAMI YOUTH SYMPHONY Join us for the sounds of summer! This year, our camps will be focusing on the science of music, how vibrations make sound. With multiple camps, we cater to all ages and levels. Each camp will have field trip opportunities such as performances and workshops.

Scholarships available. All abilities welcome.

Phone: (305) 667-4069 Email: camp@gmys.org Website: www.gmys.org

ATLANTIS ACADEMY Atlantis Academy is a school for students with special needs. We offer a Kindergarten to 12th grade program for students with small class sizes in a uniquely small, safe environment. Our mission is to provide a safe and nurturing environment to enhance students’ academic, social, and emotional growth and to foster a sense of self-worth and self-confidence. Atlantis Academy also offers Summer Camp programs as well as before and after school care. Please call 305-7814676 to learn more today!

CAMP LINGUA Camp Lingua is a unique Language Summer Camp Program where children enjoy an enriching, fun experience while developing language and critical thinking skills.

Camp Lingua differentiates from the rest of South Florida day-camps by combining its language lessons with action-packed camp activities in a safe and nature-driven environment.

Since 2000, Camp Lingua, an internationally recognized language and culture training center is acknowledged for efficacy of its language programs and professionalism.

Phone: 1-888-44-RANCH Address: 4700 Dykes Rd, Southwest Ranches, FL 33331 Website: https://www.camplingua.com/

MIAMI CHILDREN MUSEUM Spring Camp will be a very busy, artsy, smartsy, funny time at Miami Children’s Museum when campers explore some themes of nature and the outdoor world around us.

Ages: 4-10 years Camp: 9AM - 3PM | $300 for Non Members | $270 for Members - Before and Aftercare available Phone: Yanet at 305.373.KIDS (5437) ext. 112 Email: yanet@miamichildrensmuseum.org

ALPER JCC Camp J Miami introduces your child to new experiences while building confidence in a fun and safe environment. Early Childhood, Traditional, Special Needs & Performing Arts Summer Camps are available. Campers enjoy age-appropriate activities like sports, art, STEM, swim, music, and more.

Our 23-acre campus has something for everyone.

Inclusive camp program. All are welcome. June 20-August 5th. Register now!

Website: alperjcc.org/camp Contact Info: (305) 271-9000 ext. 271 or camp@alperjcc.org

February-March 2022 Miami Kids Magazine

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Looking for relaxation?

Learn about

T Hesis Hotel

THesis Hotel is a central and conveniently located gem in the heart of Coral Gables. The hotel features 245 guest rooms including the expansive THesis Penthouse Suite, a wide variety of on-site amenities, and communityinspired events.

32 Miami Kids Magazine February-March 2022

By Maria Lusich

T

Hesis Hotel is a creative hub for Coral Gables locals, offering an ongoing calendar of programming for those who reside within the local community. Highlights include collaborations with UM, Breakthrough Miami and the Frost School of Music.

The hotel showcases small businesses through its market on the hotel’s Paseo courtyard, which is also home to multiple community events. The hotel is home to two celebrated restaurants by James Beard-nominated chef Niven Patel.

Mamey, features island-minded cusine and offers one of the best happy hours in the city. Orno opened in October 2021 and features wood-fired, New American cuisine. Orno has a hidden Library space which houses the restaurant’s private dining space - perfect for small group parties and events. For larger functions, THesis Hotel has more than 20,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor event space, including the scenic pool deck on the third floor.

serves tropical bites and cocktails with unrivaled views of Coral Gables’ tree canopy. THesis Hotel is all about gathering so whether you choose to grab something to eat with your family, grab a couch and share a cocktail with a friend, or sit solo at the bar there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Pets are always welcome at THesis Hotel. #THesisPetLife features comfortable beds, cute bowls and treats. Small grassy areas along the hotel grounds and plenty of space to walk your pup, make it super pet friendly.

If you are having a family member in town, make sure that they explore downtown Coral Gables, run an errand, or just get out and about for some leisurely fun in the sun with the brand-new THesis Bikes. Available on a first come, first served basis, guests can grab a bike by the hotel’s main entrance next to the valet stand for a small fee. Simply follow the instructions on the app listed next to the bike rack and get to cruisin’!

THesis Hotel Miami makes it ideal for visiting the University of Miami. Whether it be for a campus tour or to celebrate graduation, it will be your home away from home.

As the closest hotel to the University of Miami, they are offer students, faculty and alumni with valid ID a special offer on THesis Hotel rates. In addition to special rates, guests will enjoy the following perks: • 20% off valet parking • Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi THesis’ rooftop terrace Mamey on 3rd

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s ’ e n i t n e l a V Gift Guide

THE QUEEN OF ROSES There is no better way to say I love you than with the classic approach and we have what you’re looking for! Roses, chocolates, and a bottle of your favorite drink. All to remind them that the spark is still there and create new memories with a spontaneous touch!

Contact information: Instagram @the. queen.of.roses_ Phone number: 305-764-4936

COOL KIDS BKLYN Welcome to Cool Kids Bklyn Boutique! We mix and match Girls & Boys’ Apparel, Accessories & shoes in surprising ways for the delight of the little Fashion Lover.

We are a one stop shopping destination where you will find the best blend of popular and stylish domestic made and globally imported Children’s clothing and accessories.

Website: www.coolkidsbklyn.com follow us @coolkidsbklynboutiique

AMAZING PARTIES Amazing Parties offers event planning and coordination services in the party capital of the world - Miami! Our goal is to create unique events that leave a lasting impression on both you and your guests.

Whether it is a small gathering or grand gala, our team will integrate color and texture with a sophisticated style to once in a lifetime events. We will handle all of the event details, from event concept, decor, linens, furniture rentals, audiovisual, to event coordination, and entertainment.

Phone: 786-344-2966

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SUPERCUTS Pamper your loved ones with a cut, color, or blowdry at Supercuts! Gift cards available at any location. Find a salon near you. www.supercuts.com

DOC POPCORN/DIPPIN DOTS The Dippin´Dots / Doc Popcorn experience offers a perfect fusion of deliciously warm popcorn and refreshingly cold ice cream treats. Great for any kind of event, party or celebration, your guests will love our variety of irresistible snack options: sweet, savory, warm, cold, crunchy, creamy, refreshment.

It’s just the perfect choice! https://www.docpopcorn.com/locationfinder/westland-mall.html Instagram: @dippindotsdocpopcorn.miami TikTok: dippindotsdocpopcorn.mia

FOR THE

Little Ones SPA*RKLE BEAUTY RESCUE KIT BY BRIGHT STRIPES All the beauty essentials you need in a cool storage bag you can just grab and go! Includes body butter, lip balm, scented hand sanitizer, fold up brush with acrylic mirror all in a zippered storage bag with clip.

THERAPEUTIC ART JOURNAL BY BRIGHT STRIPES Get creative, destress and have fun with this all-in-one Art Journal set! Learn how to combine watercolor, collage, drawings and text to create one-of-a-kind journal pages that express who you are. Includes 8 watercolors, 2 brush tip-fine tip markers, paintbrush, glue, sheet of punchouts, paper, 5 guided activity pages and an Artist Technique Guide.

CANDLE CRITTER UNICORN BY BRIGHT STRIPES Spark the artist in yourself or your child and let creativity flow with the easy to decorate Bright Stripes LED Candle Critter night light.

Set includes a high-quality ceramic unicorn with beautiful cut-out details, 3 ceramic markers including gold metallic, LED tea light with battery and instructions.

Perfect gift or craft activity for kids and adults alike.

SWIRLY WORLD NUTTY NARWHAL BY BRIGHT STRIPES Create your very own liquid light-up pen with this clever collectible activity!

Add in clear beads, plastic bubbles, jellyfish accessory and mineral oil and screw the pen shut.

Watch the Pen Pal swim up the pen as the other elements cascade to the bottom!

Pen lights up when you press to write! You’ll want to collect all 4 styles!

EEBOO CUPCAKE SPINNER GAME Four different kinds of cupcake recipes will display what each player needs to make the perfect dessert. Each player takes a turn at the spinner.

The first to collect all the ingredients wins the game. Through all the smiles and concentration, tots will be developing patience, social skills, categorization, and recipe following skills.

EEBOO VALENTINE PAPER CHAIN Create an instant party atmosphere with this 2-foot long chain for kids to link together. Divide up the 120 illustrated links depicting Valentine hearts, flowers and loving things that make this festive holiday so special for every age and stage of life.

Kit features 36 different holiday graphics.

CARE BEARS DREAM BRIGHT BEAR 14” PLUSH The NEW Care Bears Dream Bright Bear is the most optimistic bear in Care-A-Lot! She’s always there to cheer you on and encourage you to follow your dreams. She knows that anything is possible if you try your best and believe in yourself.

Manufacturer: Basic Fun!, Ages 4+, Available at Walmart.

EMMA AND KATE’S WORLD CUTIE POP SURPRISE This super-colorful, kitty-shaped cake pop is filled with 7 fun surprises! Push the stick to pop off the top and reveal 1 of 6 possible 3-inch Emma or Kate figures and a charming duo of 3 possible BFF pairs. Pop open the accessories to create a look fit for an awesome Emma and Kate playdate. Multiply the fun with additional Cutie Pop Surprises (each sold separately). Manufacturer: Just Play, Ages 3+ Available at Target.

SNAP SHIPS SPITTER The Spitter K.L.A.W Missile Cruiser is fully equipped with pivoting cannons and missiles that fire at the push of a button! Snap Ships Spitter K.L.A.W features: High explosive penetrators punch through armor, deadly lances for piercing armor, drum fed high-volume railgun Available at Amazon.com

HOUSE MONSTERS: THE BIRTHDAY PARTY This first story in the House Monsters series introduces readers to the House Monsters crew, and their adventures living unbeknownst to their human family the Johnsons! Kids will learn the value of teamwork and friendship and being able to handle unexpected surprises with a positive attitude.

Available at Amazon.com

MY FAIRY GARDEN LIGHT UNICORN PARADISE Glow and grow with the new My Fairy Garden Light Unicorn Paradise! Plant the seeds all around the house and even atop the rocky area and watch the unicorn paradise bloom. Both the mushroom and the rainbow light up, and the rainbow plays music!

Available for purchase at Target.com

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What is a PPEC?

A prescribed pediatric extended care (“PPEC”) is a facility where children with medically complex conditions receive skilled nursing care as well as speech, occupational, and physical therapies.

First Kid’s PPEC is the only physician-owned network of PPECs in South Florida. At First Kid’s PPEC children enjoy a safe, professional, and fun environment to receive the care, allowing parents to return to the workforce. They have over +50 medical experience and are here to help your child improve!

They transport your child to and from the home, school, or doctor’s office, where children are always accompanied by one of our nurses. Their services, therapies, transportation, and meals are provided at no cost to parents!

WHO QUALIFIES FOR PPEC SERVICES? Families must have each of these criteria to receive PPEC services: • Medicaid Eligible. Patients must be either Medicaid eligible or participate in a Medicaid HMO (via Simply Healthcare, Humana, etc.). Families that meet this requirement will not be required to pay any amounts for PPEC services • Medical Complexity. Patients must have a qualifying medical complexity. Visit our homepage (fkppec.com) to review a list of qualifying conditions • Doctor’s Prescription. A doctor must write your child a prescription. PPEC prescriptions are commonly provided by pediatricians, neurologists, or other pediatric specialist

By Carlos Ordoqui

WHAT TO DO NEXT? What to do next? If you believe your child may qualify for PPEC services, contact First Kid’s PPEC at (305) 490 – 2009 or email at info@fkppec. com. They have locations in Miami and Broward waiting to serve you!

Santa’s Workshop On Sunday, December 5th, we celebrated our annual Santa’s workshop followed by the Parade of the Elves in the city of South Miami. Our guest of honor was Kristin Sanchez, morning news and traffic anchor from NBC. She joined us with her family and paraded with us after signing magazines for our readers.

Kids enjoyed many treats and goodies thanks to our sponsors Bakerly, Health channel, and South Florida PBS. We also had cookie decorations thanks to Bake it on Wheels.

We were able to collect 11 bags full of toys to benefit Sofia’s Hope for children with cancer.

The Suarez Family

Winter Wonderland at City of Miami On December 16th we celebrated our annual Winter Wonderland in partnership with the City of Miami and Mayor Francis Suarez.

The drive-through event was magical!. All the cars drove through snow flurries while listening to Christmas songs and waving hello to Santa and many fun characters.

The cars also received many goodies!

Breakfast with Santa at Neiman Marcus On Saturday, December 4th and 11th, we were able to join many families at Neiman Marcus Coral Gables. They hosted a Breakfast with Santa in their beautiful garden. Many families enjoyed a delicious breakfast, cookie decorations, made their own ornaments, and received goody bags from Sharkie our friendly mascot!

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