Miami Kids Magazine Issue 502

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2021

NUMBER 502

FEBRUARY - MARCH

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PAG.

Setting Family Goals

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20

Feature

Learning about Zoo Miami with wildlife expert Ron Magill

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Parenting

Family • When is the “right” time to talk to your kids about drugs and alcohol?

• Helping to Choose the Right Sport for you Child • Celebrating Saint Patrick’s Day

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30

Museums, Exhibits And Landmarks Guide

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11 22 Nutrition

Keeping a Healthy Body Weight, After the Holiday Season

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Miami Kids Magazine February - March 2021

Summer Camp Guide 1 Sponsored by

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34

Valentine’s Gift Guide

Social

• Miami Kids Magazine and Shops at Merrick Park Holiday Toy Drive, Drive-Thru Celebration Benefiting Nicklaus Children’s Hospital • Winter Wonderland at City of Miami • Holiday Celebration at the Miami Lighthouse for the Blind Preschool • Miami Kids Magazine Winners

Happy 2021! We are super excited for this new year with much hope and expectations for good things to happen for all of us!

The vaccines are here! We are happy that our elderly and first responders are getting the vaccine and soon most of us are going to get it also.

PUBLISHER - EDITOR Karla C. Richey

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Enrique Chavez Pincilotti

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS New year, new goals, and on page 6 you will have a great article on how to teach your kids to set realistic goals as individuals and as a family!

We started this first issue of the year with a super interview and also on the cover page Ron Magill, the very well-known American wildlife expert and Communications Director at Zoo Miami. Don’t miss the interview on pages 20 and 21, and also the behind the scenes pictures and videos coming up on our social media pages.

As requested by many parents, our best and most complete guide for the summer, Summer Camp Guide number I sponsored by iSwim Academy on pages 22 and 23.

February is the month of love and we have a Valentines Gift Guide for the entire family. In March we celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day and we have some ideas of activities to do with the family.

We are proud that during the month of January, we were able to give away a toiletry basket that includes a hand sanitizer, face mask, hand soap, towel, and a toothbrush to one reader per day on our social media pages. We hope that while having the virus around, we maintain social distancing and keep washing our hands and taking the respective precautions.

Cheers to all of us, we are here for you, stronger than ever and ready to provide you with great articles, keep planning great events, and continue with our mission to integrate exceptional kids into society!

Karla C. Richey

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Miami Kids Magazine February - March 2021

Diane Landsberg The American Heart Association Coach Nick Bevilacqua Nelly Lusich

SPANISH EDITOR Nelly Lusich

MARKETING AND SALES Karla C. Richey

EDITORIAL ASSOCIATE Claudia Del Castillo

CRM Lucia Galeano

PHOTOGRAPHY Enrique Tubio

DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT Noor Barakat

GRAPHIC DESING Jhonn Rivera

WWW.MIAMIKIDSMAGAZINE.COM @MiamiKidsMagazine @MiamiKidsMagazine © 2021 Miami Kids, LLC. All rights reserved.

Issue 502. 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.

Setting

Family Goals

By Diane Landsberg

A

s in most previous years, 2020 started out last January as just another regular year. It was full of all the normal expectations and hopes. Then, in mid-March, everything changed, and life as we knew it changed completely. In the remaining months, many of us experienced sickness, isolation, frustrations and fear. We were exposed daily to negative feelings and difficult situations as we dealt with financial instability, working from home, school online, and, in some cases, the terrible loss of a family member or friend.

Thankfully, on a more positive note, families found new ways of entertaining one another, exercising and cooking together and most importantly….talking, sharing and getting c l o s e r .

Adult children moved back home to either assist their aging parents or due to financial necessity. It required patience, tolerance and a lot of love. Hardest of all, the holidays were celebrated differently with limited travel, much smaller groups or just skipped altogether. But again, on the positive side, families utilized Zoom and Facetime to be together to remain connected.

It has been said, “Goals are dreams with deadlines”. As we carefully venture into 2021 it is a perfect opportunity to create goals using the SMART formula of Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timerelated. Consider having a family meeting (no cell phones allowed) to

have this important discussion on family goals and then select a regular day and time to discuss all successes and challenges.

Everyone needs to participate, regardless of their age and all will share in the rewards when steps are accomplished. The main objective is to build on the love you already share and have fun along the way. It is also an important opportunity for parents to set the example, with giving praise frequently along the way. You will strengthen the family, and your relationships.

A fun project can be creating a vision board of pictures and words from magazines and newspapers from the list that was made. It should be displayed in the kitchen, hallway or family room where it is seen every day to keep everyone on track with duties and timelines.

My last suggestion is to practice kindness and gratitude, which are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Time-related every single day.

Let’s all strive to make 2021 healthier and happier, and watch your family thrive.

February - March 2021 Miami Kids Magazine

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KEEPING A

HEALTHY BODY WEIGHT, AFTER THE HOLIDAY SEASON

By The American Heath Association

Maintaining your ideal body weight is tough, no matter where you are in your weight loss journey. Use these tips to set yourself up for success.

This means higher risk for many serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.

If you’re overweight, losing even a few pounds can improve your health, so every step in the right direction counts!

When your weight is in a healthy range: • Your body more efficiently circulates blood.

• Your fluid levels are more easily managed.

• You are less likely to develop diabetes, heart disease, certain cancers, gallstones, osteoarthritis, breathing problems and sleep apnea.

• You may feel better about yourself and have more energy to make other positive health changes.

Losing weight isn’t easy, but there’s no doubt it’s worth it. It sounds simple enough: To lose weight, you need to burn more calories than you eat. And to stay at a healthy weight, you need to balance healthy eating and physical activity. Most fad diets and quick weight loss schemes don’t work, because they don’t help you learn how to maintain a healthy weight over the long haul.

KEEPING THE WEIGHT OFF OK, you’ve lost some weight. Now you can relax, right? Not so fast! Maintaining weight loss can take just as much effort as losing it.

Here are some tips: • Know your triggers, roadblocks and favorite excuses. We all have them!

• Don’t kid yourself. This is a longterm effort. The first year or two after significant weight loss may be the hardest, but if you can stick it out you’re more likely to make it in the long run.

• Learn from others who’ve succeeded and follow their example.

• Make sure you have a social support network of friends, family and health professionals who will support your new healthy habits.

• Find healthy ways to motivate yourself to stick with it.

• At the end of the day, it’s up to you. Hold yourself accountable for the decisions

•

you make.

And remember, you can’t do it by diet alone. For people trying to keep weight off, exercise is even more essential.

The American Heart Association recommends 200 to 300 minutes of physical activity a week to keep those extra pounds from creeping back.

LAPSING AND RELAPSING A lapse is a small mistake or slip into old habits. This can happen when you have a bad day and overeat or skip your workout. A relapse is when you go back to old habits for several days or weeks.

Remember that having a lapse or relapse is not failing. You can get back on track. Try to find new, healthier ways to handle life’s stresses besides overeating or becoming one with your couch. Take a walk, talk with a friend, or do something to help someone else. Just don’t give up!

February - March 2021 Miami Kids Magazine

11

WHEN IS THE “RIGHT”

TIME TO TALK TO

YOUR KIDS ABOUT DRUGS AND ALCOHOL?

By Diane Landsberg

F

rom the age of 3 to about 5, you can have conversations about healthy living and importance of taking good care of our bodies and making healthy choices. From ages 5 to 8, move into discussions about healthy habits and unhealthy choices, and include the dangers of drug and alcohol misuse. Ages 8 to 10, have this conversation more often. Now, I know what you may be thinking. Does this discuss discussion “plant an idea” in their head or “make drugs forbidden and therefore more attractive”?

No! Data tells us that, first of all, parents are the number one influencer in their kid’s lives!

If kids know that their parents have a zero tolerance policy on drug abuse and underage drinking, they get it. Second, you must set the example. Kid’s see what adults are doing and hear what adults are saying, on the phone, to

When is the “right” time to talk to your kids about drugs and alcohol?

The answer is: as soon as they can carry on a conversation. Perhaps you are thinking that is too young but please read on and do research on your own as well. other adults, to other kids. Make sure your message is consistent! If children see mom and dad doing something illegal, that they have been told not to do, it sends a very mixed message. If kids are told marijuana is bad and illegal, they will definitely be confused if they find marijuana in the home or car, or see a family member smoking it.

Watch what they watch! Kids are bombarded with pro-drug messages on social media, on television and in the movies. If your kids are exposed to these messages and you are present, it is a great opportunity to point out that, it may be funny on TV, but drug addiction is not funny and death from drugs is no laughing matter. By the time kids are in 5th or 6th grade, they understand that there are drugs in their community or school. At this time you must set up clear rules about drugs and alcohol - and the consequences for breaking these rules and make sure your kids understand them. In addition, tell your kids how sad and scared you would be if they were to use drugs. Tell them how dangerous and deadly drugs can be. Tell them often that they can come to you at any time with any

questions they may have.

Some kids believe that prescription drugs are safe and not deadly. You must remind them to never accept any drugs or medicine from anyone else (unless you have an arrangement with the school nurse or caretaker) and teach them never to touch any drug they may see on a countertop, in a cabinet or on a bed side table. If you have prescription drugs in your home, keep them in a place where kids cannot get to them or purchase a lock box for them.

In middle school and high school, ask your kids what they know about drugs and what drugs are available in their school, community or other places. If kids are already comfortable discussing this topic, they will respond. You may be surprised at how readily available drugs are to kids in middle and high school.

Raising drug-free kids is not impossible! With consistent messaging and opportunities for conversation, you can raise drug-free kids.

For more information about this subject, visit this link: http://kidshealth.org/en/ parents/talk-about-drugs.html

February - March 2021 Miami Kids Magazine

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O

ne of the questions I get asked often and one of the topics I find myself discussing with parents is the idea of one sport versus multiple sports for kids. This usually leads to a larger discussion about choice. Who knows what’s best for your child or children?

The truth is, no one does.

You cannot have a real idea of what is best for your child in a certain situation without actually being in the situation.

You can have desires, wishes, expectations and more. You can never actually know much about anything until it is happening to you in the moment. Hence, the movement by so many of our great teachers of today that preach “living in the moment.” Right?

Personally, I would like to raise children who feel empowered to make the choice they feel is best for them.

Letting your children choose is often the best answer. WAIT!!! WHAT??? I am not suggestion you do not have input. As a matter of fact, you have more input than they will think, and you get to make it seem like they make the choice. They are also not always going to like the choices being presented to them. For example, I may ask my children, “Would you like broccoli or peas for dinner?”

They don’t have to like the choices I have made for them; however, they still feel like they get to choose their life. “Are you going to brush your teeth before or after we read the story?” is another example of empowering your child. The idea is, you come up with the options that you are satisfied with and let them choose.

HELPING TO CHOOSE

THE RIGHT

FOR

YOU

By Coach Nick

But, but, but, what about sports? This has nothing to do with sports. The reason we remember names like Tiger Woods and Michael Phelps is because they are the exception to the rule, not the rule. I recently read a 10-year study done on girls aged 1417 who play soccer and have ACL injuries which require surgery. I once suffered an AC tear and required surgery, so it is something I am interested in. The study suggested due to the same sport being played over and over, the muscles conditioned a certain way. As the girls would age and go through the latter stages of puberty, the muscles would change as well, thus leaving them open for injury. It makes sense too. Body builders do not have the same routine throughout the year. They change the way they work with muscles; they adjust the weight from heavy to light and back

to heavy. The diet is adjusted throughout the year too. Often children who play the same sport constantly work the same muscle groups… Just something to think about.

The flip side to this is, what do you do if your child is “all in” for their sport, even if its just for 2-3 years? This is where you sit down and talk to your child about the pro’s and con’s of choosing one sport. Show them how you make bigger decisions in your life. Do you pull out a piece of paper and draw a line down the middle and write down pros and cons on each side and start writing? Help them, guide them, support them, love them, don’t live their life for them. Remind them they can change their minds, just like we do. Honest and non judgmental is the best way for me, not the easiest, but the best. Good luck and its almost time to get back in the pool!!!

February - March 2021 Miami Kids Magazine

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By Nelly Lusich

Saint

PATRICK’S DAY

Activities

Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated on March 17th and has become the day when people around the world celebrate Irish culture. Patrick is the Catholic patron saint of Ireland and we celebrate that day which marks the date when Saint Patrick died. and often associated with symbols of Ireland such as the shamrock, the color green, and leprechaun.

SOME IDEAS TO DO WITH THE KIDS ON SAINT PATRICK’S DAY MAGIC GREEN MILK: add 1 MAKE a few drops of green food colouring

to the bottom of a drinking glass, get the children to watch in wonder as you pour in milk and it magically changes to green.

2

GREEN SNACKS AT THE LUNCH BOX. This year Saint Patrick’s Day is on a Wednesday, surprise your child with a nutritious lunchbox all in green. Use cucumbers, green veggie pita wraps and cut in clover shapes, green grapes, green apples etc.

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GET CREATIVE DOING ST. PATRICK’S DAY CRAFTS: Make a Leprechaun Craft with a Fork Print Beard. An Apple Shamrock Stamp, a paper plate Leprechaun, a Cupcake Liner Shamrocks, etc.

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TEST YOUR LUCK PLAYING A ST. PADDY’S GAME: Organize a scavenger hunt, rainbow coin toss, and even pin the clover on the leprechaun.

5

BAKE FESTIVE DESSERTS. Use green frosting to decorate cookies and cupcakes. Draw some rainbows and use it as a cake topper.

FUN FACTS & SYMBOLS • • • •

Green is part of Saint Patrick’s Day because it’s the color of Spring.

One of the Irish traditions is to pinch anyone who is not wearing green on St. Patrick’s Day. The most common St Patrick’s Day symbol is the shamrock. The shamrock is a leaf from the clover plant.

It’s a myth that the shamrock can only grow in Ireland – the three-leaf clover grows all over the world – from Tasmania to England.

•

The leprechaun is a small Irish fairy who dresses like a shoemaker. Leprechauns are unfriendly little men who lives alone in the forest, spending time making shoes and guarding their gold treasures.

If you catch a leprechaun, he’ll be forced to tell you where he hides his pots of gold. However, the leprechaun must be watched at all times. If his captor looks away, the leprechaun will vanish along with his treasure.

February - March 2021 Miami Kids Magazine

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CREDITS: PHOTOGRAPHER : ENRIQUE TUBIO LOCATION: ZOO MIAMI

20 Miami Kids Magazine February - March 2021

HOW DID YOUR PASSION FOR ANIMALS EVOLVE?

Ever since I can remember, I have loved animals.

Whether it be interacting with the squirrels and pigeons in New York City or rescuing and rehabilitating owls and opossums as a teenager growing up in the Redland, I have always been around animals and loved caring for them.

The love for wildlife was particularly fueled by the television show, “Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom” which I watched every Sunday night at 7:30PM, right before “The Wonderful

World of Disney.”

WE KNOW THAT YOU HAVE THE CHEETAH AMBASSADOR PROGRAM AT ZOO MIAMI. PLEASE TELL US ABOUT THE PROGRAM AND HOW OUR READERS CAN GET INVOLVED.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR UPBRINGING AND FORMAL EDUCATION.

I was born in New York City and moved to Miami in 1972. My father was a Cuban immigrant and my mother the daughter of a Colombian immigrant. I went to school at Cutler Ridge Junior High and then Miami Palmetto Senior High. I finished my schooling at the University of Florida where I majored in zoology.

I began the Cheetah Ambassador Program nearly 20 years ago when I brought a cheetah named, Savannah to the zoo from the De Wildt Cheetah Center in South Africa where she was born under human care. She became Zoo Miami’s most iconic ambassador animal. She was not only brought to a variety of schools and other locations in South Florida, she also traveled to locations around the country to help raise money and awareness for cheetah conservation. After Savannah, a king cheetah named, King George, took over and continued to follow the path Savannah had established. After living long productive lives, Savannah and King George were succeeded by two brothers named Koda and Diesel who still live here at the zoo. Unfortunately, because of changes in the laws and the restrictions of the current pandemic, the cheetahs no longer leave zoo grounds. However, we still support cheetah conservation through the Ron Magill Conservation Endowment which provides thousands of dollars annually to those efforts.

WHAT NEW ATTRACTIONS IS ZOO MIAMI PLANNING IN THE NEW YEAR AND HOW WILL THE PANDEMIC AFFECT THESE PLANS?

In January, we opened the Conservation Action Center. It is a state of the art interactive center that incorporates a variety of games and engaging images to connect visitors to conservation efforts and behind-the-scenes work while raising awareness on what they can do to help. Visitors will learn about invasive species, be able to see some live native species, and be able to walk through a larger than life Burmese python replica.

The pandemic delayed this opening from its original scheduled date of this past summer but it is now ready to go.

LAST YEAR DURING THE PANDEMIC, WE WERE HONORED TO HAVE YOU AS ONE OF OUR SPEAKERS IN OUR VIRTUAL CLASSES WHERE MANY FAMILIES ENJOYED YOUR PRESENTATION ABOUT THE TORTOISES. TELL US ABOUT ZOOCADEMY AND HOW FAMILIES CAN CONTINUE LEARNING ABOUT THE ANIMALS WITH THIS PROGRAM.

Zoocademy has thankfully been very well received. It is basically a series of short videos that I host to provide interesting facts about individual animals that will hopefully inspire the viewer to want to learn more.

Anyone can log onto www.zoomiami.org and see a variety of videos, including the Zoocademy series to learn more about the animals here at the zoo. Zoo Miami also has a YouTube Channel that features all of its videos.

HOW CAN PEOPLE CONTRIBUTE TO THE ZOO MIAMI FOUNDATION?

Anyone can go to www.zoomiami.org and click the “donate” button to contribute to the Zoo Miami Foundation. I would greatly appreciate it if they specified that their donation be for the Ron Magill Conservation Endowment because it is what I am most proud of in my entire career. The endowment provides tens of thousands of dollars annually to support the conservation of wildlife in the wild places where they are naturally found as well as providing scholarships for students who have dedicated themselves to a career connected to wildlife conservation.

YOU ARE ONE OF THE MOST LOVED AND ICONIC FIGURES IN SOUTH FLORIDA. WHAT MESSAGE WOULD YOU LIKE TO LEAVE TO OUR READERS?

The main message is that everyone can make a difference when it comes to wildlife conservation. Whether it be doing things like recycling, planting a butterfly garden, or reducing our dependency on fossil fuels, every bit helps. The bottom line is that we are all connected to wildlife so by protecting and helping wildlife, we are protecting and helping ourselves.

February - March 2021 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 We can come to you, or you can come to us. Come swim with us!

22 Miami Kids Magazine February - March 2021

SUPERSOCCER STARS Super Soccer Stars is offering in-person classes, camps, and private groups this season.

Play safely with enhanced protocols to keep your child kicking. Players develop their soccer skills while improving self-confidence, physical literacy, and socialization skills. Highly trained, certified coaches lead small classes with low kid-to-coach ratios to promote teamwork, while providing individual attention. Ages 2-12+ Contact – info@soccerstars.com | (212) 877–7171 | [soccerstars.com]soccerstars. com

ZOO MIAMI

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!

Zoo Miami’s award-winning camps combine education with entertainment where your kids will enjoy learning about wildlife, getting an introduction to environmental conservation, and making new friends. Zoo camp will operate under Miami-Dade County safety guidelines to ensure a safe environment for your child.

Pre-registration is required and space is limited. Contact: education@zoomiami. org or 305-255-5551 for more information.

Address: 2401 SW 3rd Ave, Miami, FL 33129

MIAMI THEATRE CENTER

Phone: (786) 476-2105

Are you looking for a drama program that is a fun

Website: www. globalconnectionpreschool.com VILLAGE MONTESSORI

and safe place for your kids? MTC’s programs are designed to engage your young performer’s imagination and performance skills. Learn life

The objective of The Village Montessori summer

skills such as public speaking and creative

camp is to create a curriculum that engages

thinking while building self-confidence with

children in a fun and exciting way while we

MIAMI LIGHTHOUSE FOR THE BLIND

continue their academic progress in a safe

Miami Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually

prepared outdoor and indoor environment within

Impaired provides fun and educational summer

a flexible schedule.

camp programs for blind and visually impaired

Our theme this year is Europe. Throughout

youth and their sighted peers. Through a variety

each of the eight weeks the children will have

of instructional programs children ages one to

an opportunity to experience the outdoors, do

twenty-two have the opportunity to participate

ALPER JCC

science, re-create inventions, build replicas of

in community field trips and specialized activities

Camp J Miami introduces your child to new

wonders of the world, study famous artists, play

that promote independence and academic

experiences while building confidence in a fun

soccer and a daily Montessori work cycle!

development.

Phone: 305-858-9199

For more information, please call Miami

and safe environment. Traditional Summer

Website: https://www.

Lighthouse Learning Center for Children™ @

montessorischoolmiami.com/

786.362.7483.

peers. Scholarships are available!

For more information contact Terrence Brunn, Program Coordinator terrence@ mtcmiami.org, 305-751-9550

Camp and Performing Arts Camp 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 21-August 13. Register now!

Website: alperjcc.org/camp

WHITE TIGER & DRAGON

NATIONAL FLAG FOOTBALL

White Tiger and Dragon Martial Arts offer Kempo

Join the Nation’s #1 NFL Flag Football Program

karate/Brazilian jiu-jitsu/mixed martial arts/

for Boys & Girls Ages 4–14! If we don’t play, you

CENTNER ACADEMY

kickboxing and self-defense. These classes

don’t pay. Practices held same day as games.

Centner Academy is committed to emotional

promote a sense of physical and psychological

Our Hollywood, Wellington/West Palm Beach,

intelligence, mindfulness, challenging

Well-being. The main goal is for students to learn

Boca Raton and our affiliate location in Hialeah

academics, 5+ language, entrepreneurial

independence and self-confidence that can be

are a 7-week season with games played ONLY

t h i n k i n g , p r o b l e m - s o l v i n g , c r e a t i v i t y,

used inside and outside of the dojo.

on Sunday’s. Coaches are screened and

collaboration, and happiness. We are

Phone: (305) 505-4919

trained. Registration includes NFL Flag team

currently working on our summer camp! Visit

Address: 3051 SW 28th Ln, Miami, Fl.

jersey & flag belt for players to keep. Spring

our website for updated information. https://

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season begins April 11. Deadline is March 7.

centneracademy.com/

Address: 3575 Main Hwy, Miami, FL 33133

Register online at

For regular enrollment, please visit

www.flflagfootball.com or call us at (954) 248-2090 for questions.

https://centneracademy.com/studentinquiry/

February - March 2021 Miami Kids Magazine

23

WHIPPERSNAPPER FISHING CAMP Whippersnapper’s Fish Camp: “We take children fishing!” Captain Matt Coffen will take you and your friends on a guided fishing trip in beautiful Biscayne Bay. Something is always biting and the kids love it.

Email: Captaincoffen@yahoo.com Website: whippersnappersfishcamp. com

VALLEY VIEW RANCH EQUESTRIAN

SPRING CAMP AT FROST SCIENCE

CAMP

MUSEUM

Horse lovers’ paradise since 1954! A’top

Unleash the Power of Science during Spring

Lookout Mountain, for 50 girls, 8-17; 1 to 8

Camp at the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum

weeks, 600 acres, English, Western, Barrels,

of Science. From March 29 – April 2, children in

Vaulting, and Trails. CHA instructors teach

grades Pre-K – 5th will explore the foundations

beginner to advanced riders. Spend up to 6

laid by pioneers in science to become the

hours a day riding and caring for your OWN

next breakthrough generation of scientists

camp horse.

themselves! Offered safely in-person and

Address: 606 Valley View Ranch Rd.,

virtually.

Cloudland GA 30731

Telephone: 305-434-9564

Phone: 706-862-2231

Email: camp@frostscience.org

Website: www.valleyviewranch.com

Website: frostscience.org/springcamp

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.

GREATER MIAMI YOUTH SYMPHONY We are getting ready for our summer camp!

Please check out our website for any updates.

Website: https://gmys.org/

Address: 570 NE 81st Street, Miami FL

MADSCIENCE Mad Science summer camps launching soon!

Our interactive and engaging camp programs allow kids to explore the different fields of science

33138

in an interesting and entertaining way. Fun and

Phone: (786) 395-0355

AREA STAGE COMPANY

Web page: https://therealfoodacademy.

We are getting ready for our summer camp!

the next Einstein or MarieCurie! More details at:

com/summer-camp/

Please check out our website for any updates.

https://miami.madscience.org/

Website: https://www.areastage.org/

educational! Your registration could be inspiring

s ’ e n i t n e l a V Gift Guide

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. Our team of event specialists will work closely with you to design, plan, and execute events tailored to your specific desires, needs, and budget. 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

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

GAYLORD PALMS Treat your loved one to a romantic getaway at a 4-star hotel in Gaylord Palms Resort. Have dinner at one of our delicious restaurants or book a spa day. Get lost in our immersive atrium and come make new memories with us at Gaylord Palms.

Call 1-407-586-0000 for more information.

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

LOVEPOP CARDS Lovepop is on a mission to create one billion magical moments with an art meets engineering approach to designing magical gifts. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, an important milestone, or an everyday moment, Lovepop’s hundreds of unique designs make it easy to share love with meaning, creativity, and fun. www.lovepop.com

30 Miami Kids Magazine February - March 2021

ALL ABOUT VIBE Turn any favorite photo, art, or memorable moment into a soft, ultra-realistic and double-sided pillow.

Support@allaboutvibe.com

BAKERLY All you need is love and bakerly snacks to-go to make a dreamy and easy Valentine’s brunch!

With our buttery French brioche, a delicious heart pancake pop with our pancakes to-go or a special crêpes to-go bouquet, we have it all to make your little ones feel extra loved. https://bakerly.com/

SAVING GRAZE MIAMI Nosotros Grazer Feeds 6-9 Persons.

Comes with Artisanal Cheeses, Variety of Meats, Fresh Fruits and/or Veggies, Simple Sweets, Spread, Jam or Jelly, Artisanal Crackers and Bread. Served in a beautifully presented board wrapped in cellophane and a separate box with artisanal crackers.

For more information call or email us 786203-8696//savinggrazemiami@gmail.com savinggrazemiami.com

SNAPSTYLE PRINTABLE FACE MASKS Create a customized disposable face mask at the touch of a button! • Replicate almost any picture, pattern, or other artwork directly onto a 100% cotton, printable, protective mask using just your mobile device.

Everything you need is included in the kit and there is no sewing required! The masks can be sized to fit children and adults. The masks have been rigorously designed and tested to meet WHO and AFNOR guidelines. SRP $17.99 (4-Pack).

Available on Amazon and in-stores at Walmart; www.SnapStyleMasks.com

FOR THE

Little Ones

DINKLEBOO Dinkleboo gives you a great selection of fun personalised gifts for kids. We have gifts such as kids books, name labels, and other toys for children. Our gifts are for girls and boys which make each gift a unique present https://www.dinkleboo.com/us/

TIMEX® FAMILYCONNECT™ Timex FamilyConnect™ allows you to worry less knowing you’re directly connected to your kids on your own private and secure network. Designed to give parents peace of mind and children the independence they need with features like realtime location tracking, voice & instant messaging, two-way calling, SOS alerts and much more. https://www.timex.com/browse/collections/ family-connect/

OSMO The Creative Starter Kit combines bestsellers Monster, Newton, Masterpiece, games which invite kids to imagine, invent, explore and play, using an inspiring mix of art tools and cutting-edge technology. They help with learning, dexterity and development. IncludesOSMO Base for iPad, new Creative Board, 4 dry erase markers, microfiber eraser pouch, Stackable storage for each game and three Game Apps: Monster, Newton, and Masterpiece. Ages 5-10+.https://www. playosmo.com/

CARE BEARS: LOVE-A-LOT BEAR Love-A-Lot Bear is perfect for unlimited bear hugs and ready for you to take on your adventures of sharing and caring! • She also comes with a collectible Care Coin so you can show the world how much you care! Ages 4+; Available at Walmart and Amazon

CUTETITOS TASTE BUDDITIOS, WAVE 2 Cutetitos Taste Budditos lets you discover 2 mini best friends in a 2-piece heart-shaped wrap inspired by fun food pairings! You can wrap’em together or separate it into 2 pieces and wrap ‘em alone. Budditos love each other, despite their differences – they’ll inspire you to #LoveYourDifferences too! Ages 3+.

KISSY THE PENGUIN Kissy is the sweetest, cuddliest baby penguin that loves to blow kisses and teach baby how to give them back! Press her left foot to hear Kissy sing and flap her wings to the tune of “Frere Jacques”.

Press her right foot to play an interactive kissing game as Kissy lifts her wings to her beak and back down in a “kissy” motion to teach baby how to blow a kiss. Age: 0+; Available on GUND.com

February - March 2021 Miami Kids Magazine

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BROWARD COUNTY

MUSEUMS, EXHIBITS and LANDMARKS GUIDE MIAMI-DADE COUNTY Frost Science Museum Explore the wonders of science with family and friends at the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science. Miami’s only planetarium, aquarium and science museum is open daily and dedicated to providing a welcoming and safe space for everyone. Stay safe and keep learning at Frost Science! https://www.frostscience.org/ Vizcaya Museum and Gardens https://vizcaya.org/ Zoo Miami Visit Zoo Miami’s NEW Conservation Action Center (CAC), presented by the Marc and Robin Osheroff Family. As an immersive, interactive exhibition experience, CAC introduces guests to global and local conservation stories. Guests will discover their connections to conservation and how to save species!

For tickets and updates regarding the impacts of the pandemic, please visit http://www. zoomiami.org or call (305) 251-0400

Museum of Contemporary Art North Miami https://mocanomi.org/ Miami Seaquarium https://www.miamiseaquarium.com/ Jewish Museum of Florida https://jmof.fiu.edu/

History Miami Museum Journey back in time at History Miami 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

Art of Illusions Art of Illusions is a gallery of Trick Art and optical illusions that will blow your mind. At our museum, you will find 19 different art exhibits, Dinosaur virtual reality, never ending infinity mirror rooms , and the amazing red blue light room featuring a Star Wars fight scene. Enjoy slam dunking the basketball over NBA players for the Los Angeles Lakers National Champions. And lots more to see too.

Museum of Discovery and Science http://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/

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-n-Makes, 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

Miami Selfie Museum Miami Selfie Museum is the first selfie museum in South Florida! Recently opened in Wynwood now inviting guests to meet their amazing selfie taking needs while respecting social distancing rules. This presents a chance to experience the selfie museum with lots of room, no crowds, and maximum privacy. All of the rooms and their features are brand new and designed to make Miami Selfie Museum unique and memorable fun for all ages.

Address: 179 NW 25th St, Miami, FL 33127 Phone: (305) 549-5020 Lowe Art Museum https://www.lowe.miami.edu/ The Wolfsonian https://wolfsonian.org/

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/ Henry Morrison Flagler Museum https://www.flaglermuseum.us/ Lion Country Safari https://www.lioncountrysafari.com

CENTRAL FLORIDA Legoland https://www.legoland.com/ SeaWorld https://seaworld.com/orlando/ Busch Gardens Tampa Bay https://buschgardens.com/tampa/

34 Miami Kids Magazine February - March 2021

MKM and Shops at Merrick team

The Richey Family

Megan Barrera

Families donating toys

Miami Kids Magazine and Shops at Merrick Park Holiday Toy Drive, Drive-Thru Celebration Benefiting Nicklaus Children’s Hospital On December 12, Miami Kids Magazine and Shops of Merrick Park hosted the drive-thru Holiday Toy Drive celebration benefiting Nicklaus Children’s Hospital who was also the sponsor of the event.

Attendees brought hundreds of unwrapped toys to donate in support of hospitalized children. We provided 500 goodie bags and other holiday giveaways to everyone driving thru the event under the magic snow that gave a special holiday spirit to the celebration.

Thi s year ’s dr iv e- t hr u h o l i d a y celebration featured Safari Sam who sang MKM Holiday songs Jingle Bells, Feliz Navidad, Wash Your Hands, and many others. We had Gymbo the Clown, Vineyard Vines’s famous character Whale, Snowman, Rudolph, and of course Santa and Mrs. Claus dancing and waving hello to everyone in their cars.

Mr.& Mrs. Claus & Safari Sam

Mr. & Mrs. Claus with Karla, Valeria & Kenneth Richey

Ishmael & Miranda Napoles

Mayor Francis Suarez and his wife Gloria Suarez.

Winter Wonderland at City of Miami On December 11th, Miami Kids Magazine had a blast at the City of Miami’s Winter Wonderland extravaganza.

Miami Mayor Francis Suarez and his family as well as many commissioners expressed holiday cheer to the families that drove-thru City Hall. From Los Reyes Magos to Santa, this celebration had it all! We were so happy to see all the families enjoy their time and receive amazing goodies and prizes.

Miami Fire Rescue, Sparky & Karla Richey

The Richey Family

Kenneth& Valeria Richey, Elf, Santa & Andrew Suarez

Julia & Eva Russell

Capt. Iggy Carroll, Karla Richey & Commander Lewis

Commissioner Diaz de la Portilla, Karla Richey & Commissioner Watson

Holiday Celebration at the Miami Lighthouse for the Blind Preschool On December 14th, Miami Kids Magazine was proud to organize a virtual celebration for the blind and visually impaired children. Mrs. Claus, Sharky our mascot, and publisher Karla Richey were able to connect with the kids on the big screen to sing Christmas songs and to share stories before the holidays.

We were able to donate gifts for each child to make their holiday season more special. The director of the preschool Miss Isabel Chico, received the gifts and gave them to the children one by one.

40 Miami Kids Magazine February - March 2021

Sonia Baez winner of a toiletry bag

Cynthia Espinal and family, winners of tickets to movie nights at Dolphin Stadium

Amanda Blondet and Family, winners of tickets to Legoland

Amanda Fernandez's kids winners of Legoland tickets

Miami Kids Magazine Winners During the entire year, Miami Kids Magazine gave away more than 60 prizes to our readers following our social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram @MiamiKidsMagazine.

We wanted to feature some of the latest winners during the months of December and January. Some of the prizes include tickets to Legoland, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, I Love Christmas Movies at Gaylord Palms Resort, baskets with toys and also toiletry baskets as a perfect gift during this pandemic.

We hope to have many more winners in this new year!

Michelle Chavez and family, winners of tickets to Busch Gardens

Jessica Alvarez-Duco's daughter, winner of a basket full of toys

Tiffany Madrid winner of a MKM toiletry bag

Liseth Bolanos and family, winners of I Love Christmas Movies at Gaylord Palms.

Eva Milan Winner of tickets to I love Christmas Movies at Gaylord Palms

Oseas Morales winner of a MKM toiletry bag

Kassandra figueroa's Son