August 2016 Neapolitan Family

August 2016 neafamily.com

Back to School Expo

August 13!

Local School Supply Drives: How you can help Meet the School Board Candidates The rewards of PTO involvement Calming back to school jitters We’re all going Back to School!

NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

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Paid Advertisement

LEARN. GROW.

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Greater Naples YMCA

EARLY EDUCATION PROGRAM AT THE GREATER NAPLES YMCA WE KNOW THE IMPORTANCE OF EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION As the largest provider of childcare in Collier County, the Y provides early education to more children than any other non-profit in the region.

YMCA programs allow children to explore their unique talents and interests, helping them realize their full potential. That makes for confident kids today and contributing and engaged adults tomorrow.

THE CREATIVE CURRICULUM Second only to human relationships, a wellplanned curriculum helps define a child’s experience in our Early Education program. To ensure that our program delivers high quality activities and interactions, we have embraced The Creative Curriculum GOLDplus, developed

by Teaching Strategies, Inc. This curriculum is standardized and built to dovetail perfectly with Collier County School District’s kindergarten programs.

The curriculum focuses on creating a responsive environment for the children, where they will be physically and emotionally stimulated with materials, sounds, and experiences. We carefully plan daily routines and experiences, focusing on personal growth and development, making sure they are individualized to each child. Children will participate in dramatic play, creative art, discovery, library, music, computers and outdoor activities. The child’s own personal care is also individualized to their own needs. Another aspect of the Creative Curriculum focuses on guiding children’s behavior in a positive way.

Unique to the Y, our students will also have the opportunity to participate in other YMCA

239.597.8431

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programs such as swim lessons, youth sports, cooking classes and more!

Building relationships with the families is a very important part of a successful infant and toddler program. We offer Parent/Teacher Conferences at least two times a year and additional conferences can also be set up as needed. Lesson plans are posted in the classroom, along with a monthly calendar of classroom events.

This is a great extension to the child’s learning and helps you and your child make the important connection between home and school.

OUR EDUCATORS Our highly qualified educators represent a diverse background of early childhood education and experience. Our educators value learning and are provided with ongoing professional development opportunities to enhance leadership, support core competencies and integrate knowledge of early childhood education/ child development.

Since 2007, our program has had at least one teacher nominated as an Apple Blossom Teacher of the Year and has often times taken home the award.

CONVENIENT LOCATIONS The Greater Naples YMCA has three convenient locations throughout Collier County that offer our world-class Early Education program from ages 3 months to 5 years.

YMCA Gaynor Early Learning Center helps care and educates children from infancy through preschool.

NCEF Early Childhood Development Center: Located in the Florida Southwestern State College campus. This innovative, LEED-certified award winning building was originally funded and opened by NCEF in 2008. The center boasts seven classrooms, a children’s art studio and a creative playground. The seven age-appropriate classrooms directly open to outdoor play areas that provide a learning environment centered on play and nature.

Veterans Memorial Early Education Center: Located at Veterans Memorial Elementary School. Through this formal agreement the Naples YMCA has been offering children enrolled in the district with ongoing assistance in reading, music and communication skills through our Teaching Strategies GOLDplus curriculum. The early education program at Veterans Memorial Elementary School (VME) primarily serves the district employees and families residing nearby.

To learn more about our Early Education program or to register, please visit: www.GreaterNaplesYMCA.org or call 239.963.3778

The Gaynor Early Learning Center: Located in the YMCA Healthy Living Campus. As Naples’ largest early childhood education facility, our

5450 YMCA ROAD • NAPLES, FL

WWW.GREATERNAPLESYMCA.ORG

NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

Math Help and Enrichment

Test Prep

Homework Help

MAKE THIS SCHOOL YEAR

GREATER THAN LAST YEAR!

As your child gears up to head back to school, Mathnasium is here to help set the stage for success!

Our unique teaching method is designed to strengthen math foundations, boost confidence, and ultimately, make math make sense.

Whether your child is ahead of the curve, performing at grade level, or falling behind, together, we can make this school year greater than last year!

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1 Complimentary

Week of Sessions Expires 8/31/16. See center for details.

NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

Mathnasium of Naples 6420 Naples Blvd, #103 Naples, FL 34109

239-455-MATH (6284) mathnasium.com/naples neafamily.com

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AUGUST 2016 TABLE OF CONTENTS 12

New Mom’s Corner. Time and Space for the New Parent. Every parent needs time to recharge–what have you done today just for you?

by Anna Snyder

42

One Tank Trips, Part Two Anna and her family visit 3 more awesome destinations for a day of fun close to home. by Anna Snyder

in every issue . . .

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ON THE COVER

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

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REEL LIFE WITH JANE Movie reviews for the entire family

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COLLIER COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT UPDATE

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RACHEL RECOMMENDS Book reviews for kids by a kid

16

CITY CONNECTION City of Naples Parks Department News and Events

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COMMUNITY NEWS

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AUGUST EVENTS

Back to School 18

Giving Back. Local School Supply Drives: please consider picking up one extra bag of school supplies for one of these worthy causes.

36

Meet the Collier County School Board Candidates.

An election will be held on August 30 to select two new board members.

by Stacy Nicolau

38

Back to School Butterflies?

Help your child calm the jitters with these 15 tips.

by Ashley Talmadge

on the cover…

Giveaway t f i 40 G The Rewards of Volunteering with Your School’s

PTO. Get involved in your child’s school this year and help both your community and your child. by Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D

Gabriela, age 6, is the daughter of Cristina Rojas and Damian Silvera. She enjoys science experiments and arts/ crafts. Gabriela will be in 1st grade in the upcoming school year.

Cover photo by Peggy Farren of Avant Garde Photography • (239) 263-7001

You may sign up for both Mondays and Wednesdays!

Covenant Church of Naples Mom’s Morning Out Providing a loving environment for children while offering mothers and fathers a needed break

Mondays and Wednesdays 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Ages 12 Months to 4 Years Covenant Church of Naples 6926 Trail Blvd., Naples, FL 34108

239.597.3464

Fall 2016 Sessions

Monday Sessions start on August 22

Wednesday sessions start on August 24 You can choose one or both days!

Hurry! Space is limited. For more information or to register your child visit www.covenantnaples.com/ministries/childrens_ministry/moms_morning_out/

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NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

Back to School EXPO Saturday, Aug. 13 9am to 2pm Greater Naples YMCA • Over 50 vendors with the information Collier parents need to get the school year off to a good start • Face painting, tattoos and arts & crafts • Giveaways, door prizes and more!

It’s all FREE… No admission fee for adults or children.

Call 239-249-0779 for more information.

BUSINESSES AND ORGANIZATIONS: Booths still available. Call 239-249-0779 now for information.

NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

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Healthy School Lunches Delivered Daily to Your School or Daycare WT Café is the TOTAL SCHOOL LUNCH SOLUTION! Made fresh from scratch daily.

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CLEAN, HEALTHY FOOD OUR CHILDREN LOVE! Do you want us at your school?

Email us at Naples@ wtcafe.com

239-631-5655 www.wtcafeofnaples.com

www.uniformsunlimited.net

Dance Arts by Maria

WHERE SOMETHING IS ALWAYS HAPPENING

Glow Bowling Family Special Group Functions

Birthday Parties Great Menu So Much More!

Teaching love and appreciation for the art of dance.

Sundays 5-9PM

2 Hours of Bowling 14”Pizza (1 topping) & Pitcher of Soda

Plus

Shoe Rental too!

Up to 4 bowlers per lane

$37.00 + tx Your favorite sports always on.

Nemo’s awesome menu!

Located inside all Bowland Centers.

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*Reservations Accepted Woodside Lanes 8525 Radio Ln. Naples, 455-3755

Beacon Bowl N. Tamiami Tr. Naples 597-3452

www.bowlandcenters.com

Offering classes for ages 2-18 in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Lyrical, Pointe, Technique and Improv

www.NaplesDanceArts.com

239-513-6999

naplesdancearts@hotmail.com Find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @naplesdancearts

SWFL READERS CHOICE “BEST DANCE STUDIO” 2009, 2010, 2012, 2014

NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

from the publisher… the parenting magazine devoted to collier county

P.O. Box 110656 Naples, FL 34108 info@neafamily.com Publisher Andrea Breznay andrea@neafamily.com 239-249-0779 Assistant Publisher Stacy Nicolau snicolau@neafamily.com 239-370-5333 Copy Editor Leigh Ann Newman lanewman@neafamily.com 239-287-4221 Cover Photographer Peggy Farren

Editorial Submissions are welcome.

We reserve the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed. We cannot be responsible for return of any unsolicited materials.

Articles and advertisements in Neapolitan Family do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher nor does the publisher assume responsibility for statements made by our advertisers or editorial contributors. Acceptance of advertising by Neapolitan Family does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature.

See you later!

When I started this publication 17 years ago, I had no idea how much a part of the Naples community it would grow to be. I just wanted to offer parents what I needed: information specific to parenting in Collier County. That mission has always been at the heart of what I set out to do in the pages of Neapolitan Family, in our social media, and at our events.

I have been publisher of Neapolitan Family for 204 issues and I can assure you that I have been grateful for the opportunity to serve the parents of Collier County each and every month. Publishing this magazine has rarely felt like work, mostly it’s been an honor that I never took for granted.

I can’t move on without acknowledging a few special people. To my daughter Alex, you have always been my biggest supporter and cheerleader. I love you beyond words and am proud of you beyond all measure.

To Peggy Farren, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your beautiful work and more importantly, your friendship. I will miss our curbside chats after photo shoots.

To the advertisers who supported the publication: you weren’t just clients, you became friends, your support has always been appreciated even when your ads were late.

To all of the community partners who have worked with me over the years: it has been a pleasure to work with such amazing people in such a beautiful community.

To Stacy and Leigh Ann: I wish you the very best and I hope you know I will be cheering you on. I can think of no better successors and I am looking forward to seeing where you will be taking my baby.

And, finally, to the readers of Neapolitan Family: you have made every work day of the past 17 years a joy, truly. I am so grateful to have met so many of you at events, to have gotten your feedback on social media and through email and phone calls. Please know that when you took the time to tell me what the magazine meant to your family that it made my day.

Neapolitan Family is available free of charge at over 275 distribution points throughout Collier County as well as digitally at www.neafamily.com.

For those who are interested in what’s next for me, I’ll be moving back home to California to be near my family. After a few weeks off visiting friends and sightseeing during a cross country road trip, my next project is a national website start up called GrandparentsGuide.com.

Neapolitan Family is ©2016 by Neapolitan Publishing Co., LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

I’m leaving this position with an immense amount of gratitude for 17 amazing years as well as an abundance of excitement for what’s ahead! With love.

NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

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REEL LIFE WITH JANE

By Jane Louise Boursaw

Family Movie & DVD Reviews New movies in August for kids and teens include a cute cat movie starring Kevin Spacey, a “Pete’s Dragon” reboot, and a beautiful Japanese-inspired family film. Here’s a sneak peek at all the new movies for kids and teens in August.

Note that release dates are subject to change.

NINE LIVES Rated PG for thematic elements, language and some rude humor In Theaters 8/5 • Ok for Kids 7+ Reel Preview: 3.5 of 5 Reels Tom Brand (Kevin Spacey) is a daredevil billionaire at the top of his game. His company FireBrand is nearing completion on its greatest achievement yet - the tallest skyscraper in the northern hemisphere. But Tom’s workaholic lifestyle has disconnected him from his family, particularly his beautiful wife Lara (Jennifer Garner) and their daughter Rebecca (Malina Weissman). For her 11th birthday, Rebecca wants what she’s always wanted - a cat. So Tom buys a cat named Mr. Fuzzypants at a mystical pet store run by eccentric owner Felix Perkins (Christopher Walken).

One thing leads to another and after a car accident, Tom finds himself trapped inside the body of Mr. Fuzzypants! Will he be able to return to his family as a newly energized husband and dad?

SUICIDE SQUAD Rated PG-13 for sequences of violence and action throughout, suggestive content and language In Theaters 8/5 Reel Preview: 3.5 of 5 Reels Created by Robert Kanigher and Ross Andru back in 1959, the Suicide Squad team has

included countless DC villains among its ranks, including Deadshot (Will Smith), Captain Boomerang (Jai Courtney) and Harley Quinn (Margot Robbie), among others. The story centers on the imprisoned supervillains recruited by a secret government agency to execute dangerous black ops missions in exchange for clemency.

THE FOUNDER Rated PG-13 for brief strong language In Theaters 8/5 • Ok for Kids 13+ Reel Preview: 4.5 of 5 Reels Written by Robert Siegel (“Big Fan”), this drama tells the true story of how Ray Kroc (Michael Keaton), a salesman from Illinois, met Mac and Dick McDonald, who were running a burger operation in 1950s Southern California. Kroc was impressed by the brothers’ speedy system of making the food and saw franchise potential. He maneuvered himself into a position to be able to pull the company from the brothers and create a billion-dollar empire. This movie also stars Nick Offerman, Linda Cardellini, Laura Dern and BJ Novak.

PETE’S DRAGON Rated PG for action, peril and brief language • Ok for Kids 7+ In Theaters 8/12 Reel Preview: 4 of 5 Reels This reimagining of the 1977 Disney classic

blends live action and CGI to tell the story of the special bond between an orphaned boy named Pete (Oakes Fegley) and his best friend Elliott, who just happens to be a dragon. Directed by David Lowery, this film also stars Bryce Dallas Howard as Grace, a park ranger who discovers the existence of Elliott; Wes Bentley as Jack, a local mill owner; Karl Urban as Jack’s brother, Gavin; Oona Laurence as Natalie, the young girl who befriends Pete; and Robert Redford as Grace’s father.

KUBO AND THE TWO STRINGS Rated PG for thematic elements, scary images, action and peril In Theaters 8/19 • Ok for Kids 7+ Reel Preview: 5 of 5 Reels Set in a fantastical Japan, this epic actionadventure is from acclaimed animation studio LAIKA and director Travis Knight.

Kind-hearted Kubo (voiced by Art Parkinson of “Game of Thrones”) ekes out a humble living, telling stories to the people of his seaside town, including Hosato (George Takei), Hashi (Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa) and Kamekichi (Academy Award nominee Brenda Vaccaro). But his quiet existence is shattered when he accidentally summons a spirit from his past which storms down from the heavens to enforce an age-old vendetta. Now on the run, Kubo joins forces with Monkey (Charlize Theron) and Beetle (Matthew McConaughey), and sets out on a thrilling quest

Weekday Preschool and Kindergarten Low Student Ratio Weekly Music and Chapel Programs Full or Part Time Classes for Ages 2 and Up Extended Morning and Afternoon Care 1225 Piper Blvd., Naples, FL 34110 239-594-9557 • www.vpcnaples.org/preschool 8

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NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

to save his family and solve the mystery of his fallen father, the greatest samurai warrior the world has ever known.

SWFL’S PREMIER DINNER THEATRE

COLLIDE Rated PG-13 for violence, frenetic action, some sexuality, language, and drug material • In Theaters 8/19 Reel Preview: 3.5 of 5 Reels After a heist goes terribly wrong, Casey Stein (Nicholas Hoult) finds himself on the run from a ruthless gang headed by mob boss Hagen (Anthony Hopkins). Now Casey has precious cargo that belongs to Hagen, who will stop at nothing to retrieve it. Left with no choice, Casey calls his former employer and drug smuggler Geran (Ben Kingsley) to protect his long-time girlfriend Juliette before Hagen gets his hands on her. Casey sets out on an adrenaline-fueled car chase on the German highways to save the love of his life before it’s too late.

NOW – AUG 13

BEN HUR PG-13 for sequences of violence and disturbing images In Theaters 8/19 • Reel Preview: 3.5 of 5 Reels This remake of the 1959 classic film is the epic story of Judah Ben-Hur (Jack Huston), a prince falsely accused of treason by his adopted brother Messala (Toby Kebbell), an officer in the Roman army. Stripped of his title, separated from his family and the woman he loves (Nazanin Boniadi), Judah is forced into slavery. After years at sea, Judah returns to his homeland to seek revenge, but instead finds redemption. Based on Lew Wallace’s timeless novel, “Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ.”

1380 COLONIAL BOULEVARD, FORT MYERS

239.278.4422 • BroadwayPalm.com

THE SPACE BETWEEN US Rated PG-13 for brief sensuality and language In Theaters 8/19 • Ok for Kids 13+ Reel Preview: 4 of 5 Reels In this interplanetary adventure, a space shuttle embarks on the first mission to colonize Mars, only to discover after takeoff that one of the astronauts is pregnant. Shortly after landing, she dies from complications while giving birth to the first human born on the red planet – never revealing who the father is. Thus begins the extraordinary life of Gardner Elliot, an inquisitive, intelligent boy who reaches the age of 16 having only met 14 people in his life. While searching for clues about his father and the home planet he’s never known, Gardner begins an online friendship with a street smart girl in Colorado named Tulsa.

When he finally gets a chance to go to Earth, he’s eager to experience all of the wonders he could only read about on Mars, but scientists discover that Gardner’s organs can’t withstand Earth’s atmosphere.

Directed by Peter Chelsom, this movie stars Gary Oldman, Asa Butterfield, Carla Gugino, Britt Robertson and BD Wong.

JANE’S REEL RATING SYSTEM One Reel – Even the Force can’t save it.

Two Reels – Coulda been a contender Three Reels – Something to talk about.

Four Reels – You want the truth? Great flick!

Five Reels – Wow! The stuff dreams are made of.

Jane Boursaw is the film critic and editor-in-chief of Reel Life With Jane.

Contact her at jboursaw@charter.net. Images used with permission of the studios and distributors.

NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

We buy & sell gently used kids stuff

• Clothing (newborn to size 16), toys, baby furniture, equipment and more.

• We pay cash on the spot!

• No appointment nessesary, clothes must be freshly laundered and brought in a plastic container.

13560 Tamiami Trail N #4, Naples,

239-596-6096

Also in: Fort Myers at 239-274-0039 Port Charlotte at 941-764-8121

www.onceuponachildnaples.com neafamily.com

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COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

By Amanda Jackson, Communications & Community Engagement

CCPS and Social Media L

ast year the Collier County Public Schools Communications Department set a lofty goal. We wanted all 50 of our schools using Twitter. At that time, the district hadn’t dabbled much in the world of social media. Statistics show that nearly two-thirds of Americans use social media, 310 million people use Twitter, why not add an additional way to communicate with parents?

The Twitter effort turned out to be a huge success. Teachers and schools had the opportunity to open the door to their classrooms, giving parents an inside look at what their children were learning. They were able to connect in different ways with their community. Combined, the schools

amassed more than 20,000 followers in one year. Their social media efforts were so great that the District received the National Golden Achievement Award from the National School Public Relations Association.

Following the Twitter success, the next logical step is Facebook. This social media platform is probably the most well-known in the world with over a billion active users.

Debuting this month are Facebook pages for your son or daughter’s schools. Pages will include photos, live events from the school, and videos about what’s happening at school. Simply search for the name of your child’s school and you’ll find the page.

What’s great about this is that Facebook is done in addition to other com-

munication methods. Even if you’re not a social media guru you’ll still be up-to-date with your child’s school through e-calls and other traditional methods. This is part of an ongoing effort to enhance communications. Our goal is to make communicating with you as easy as possible and give you the power to choose how you wish to be communicated with.

You’ll also notice changes to the district Facebook page. We’ll be interacting with the community more than ever. During the first semester of school we’ll be hosting a Facebook Live chat with Superintendent Dr. Kamela Patton, so be on the lookout for that. Of course, we’ll still be showcasing our CCPS Success stories through both Facebook and Twitter. You can find these posts by searching #CCPSSuccess. Also, don’t forget to login to the CCPS Portal and update your contact information. You will be able to pick your communication preferences and electronically view and sign important school paperwork.

The first day of school is almost here, so be sure to give your child’s school a like!

Download Our Mobile App Today!

Free Online Registration is only a click away

Afterschool Adventures

Dates & Times: Aug 15 to Dec 21 • Mon-Fri • 2:40 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Cost: $450 per child Locations: Eagle Lakes, East Naples, Immokalee, Immokalee South, Max Hasse,Veterans & Vineyards Community Parks & Golden Gate Community Center

239-252-4000 • www.collierparks.com 10

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NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

SUMMER SPECIAL - UP TO 50% OFF SERVICES

Experienced Licensed Psychologist now accepting patients in Naples.

Christine Borelli, Ph.D & Spa Designed to replicate the naturally therapeutic underground climate of the salt cave of Wieliczka Salt Mine and Underground Rehabilitation and Treatment Centre in Poland, one of the world’s oldest operating salt mines.

Areas of expertise include: • Learning disabilities, brain injury, behavioral disorders, ADHD, Autism, mood disorders • Treatment modalities include psychotherapy, cognitive remediation, cognitive-behavioral therapy, play therapy, behavior therapy and DBT, parenting classes, group therapy • Work with Individualized Education Plans (IEP) and 504 Accommodation Plans ALL AGES WELCOME

CHILDRENS’ SALT CAVE

BENEFITS TO CHILDREN Our children’s salt cave is specially designed for children to play as if on the beach while reaping the benefits of salt therapy. Salt therapy is a 100% natural, holistic way to boost your immunity and is becoming a popular prevention aid.

Learn more about salt therapy at our website: www.salttherapygrotto.com Located in Cambridge Square 3443 Pine Ridge Rd, Ste #102 • Naples, FL 34109 Office (239) 598-0990 • info@salttherapygrotto.com

Services include: • Neuropsychological assessment, Psychiatric evaluation, Education assessment • Accommodation testing for standardized testing including the ACT, SAT, prepatory schools, university

Call for free consultation 631-903-7886 Home and office visits available

Register for Fall Classes Today!

Why choose us?

1. Facilities - Our professional sprung dance floors reduce fatigue and prevent injuries.

2. No Fund Raisers - Students or parents

are never required to fund raise for studio events.

3. Family Plans - We make dancing

egin b s se Clas month! this visit us at

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affordable for families with more than one child.

4. Family Friendly - We are very sensitive to age appropriate music, costumes and dances.

New Teachers!

New Classes!

Even more Fun! Get Our Brand New Schedule Today! www.bdaNaples.com

NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

5400 Jaeger Rd Naples, FL 34109

239.566.3535 neafamily.com

11

RACHEL RECOMMENDS

Book Reviews

E

veryone knows the famous Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis. But did you know that The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe isn’t the first book in the series? It is confusing because that was the first book to be published, but C.S. Lewis said that The Magician’s Nephew, the last book of the seven in the series that he wrote, should be read first. I told you it was confusing.

The Magician’s Nephew is about a young girl (Polly) and a young boy (Digory). Digory’s uncle is a mad magician who sends two innocent children to the world of Narnia. Is sending Polly and Digory into a life-and-death adventure all worth it for the magician, or is he doing it just for the fun of it?

My favorite setting in this book is Polly’s little cave. It seems like a lovely little area, to write a story, or, in my case, book reviews. A cozy worn-out room, up in the attic, where no one is bound to find it.

Polly has a treasure chest, of a sort: apples, bottles of ginger-beer, cushions, and, most importantly, a story that she can call her own. If she was having a rough time at home, then she could climb up there and rest, maybe add a little spark to her story.

Polly’s cave is the perfect hiding place from the real world.

I quite enjoyed when Digory and the witch, Jadis, both come into presence of the silver apples, the apples of life. Knowing that saving your mother and disobeying a powerful and wise lion (Aslan) is at stake, Digory is given the option, laid out by the witch, to take an apple and deliver it to his sick mother, and heal her, meaning she will

by C.S. Lewis

be given the power of ever-lasting life, or complete the task Aslan had given him. I thought this was a major part of the story because it taught Digory that no matter how hard a decision is, he knows his mother will always support him, and that he will always be shown the right side of problems, and the wrong, and he will always be given the guidance he needs, but only he can decide whether to follow it.

I enjoyed this book quite a bit, but I would not say I love it. I feel as if the book was a little too action-packed, one large event, after another large event. The book was rushed. I couldn’t wait to finish the book, because I was bored and confused. A

book like this needs to planned neatly, efficiently, and wisely. I’m not saying it wasn’t, but the events were shoved in like sardines in a can. I would have liked this book more is the events were spread out more.

I would recommend this book to people 12 and up. If you enjoy a lot of action or if you’ve already read The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe, you should definitely read this book. I wonder if I reread this book when I’m 12, it will be less confusing and boring. Maybe my comprehension wasn’t strong enough and my brain, possibly not developed enough.

One more thing, I would like to say Happy Birthday to my Dad! You mean so much to me and are just like the wise lion, Aslan. I love you a whole lot!

RACHEL NEWMAN is 11 years old and in the sixth grade at Sea Gate Elementary. She is active in Irish dancing, piano, flute, acting and volleyball.

Writing, reading, and watching “I Love Lucy” are her great joys, along with taking pictures of her cats.

Reading Rescue of Naples, Florida  239-233-9400  www.ReadingRescueCenters.com info@ReadingRescueCenters.com

INDIVIDUAL INSTRUCTION FOR STUGGLING READERS • Certified Reading Specialist • 25 Years Experience • All Ages • Children with Dyslexia, ADD, Other Challenges • Naples Locations by Arrangement • Methods: Orton-Gillingham & Reading Recovery

Academic Classes for Homeschoolers www.risenaples.com

Additional Services for Homeschool Families: • Annual Certification of Progress • Curriculum & Instruction Guidance

Courses currently offered in the RISE program include STEM Engineering, Essay, Research and Literary Analysis Basics, Pre-Algebra, Algebra I, SAT Preparation, American Literature with Writing for Christian Discernment, Personal Finance and Computing Skills, American History, Language Arts Workshop, and American Sign Language.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

Neapolitan Family Magazine and Mercato Present the 2016-17

Cover Kids Contest

We’re choosing 12 months of cover models.

This is your chance to see your child on the cover of Neapolitan Family Magazine during the next year!

Each of the 12 finalists will appear on a cover between November 2016 and October 2017.

The staff of Neapolitan Family Magazine will choose our 12 favorites and then readers will vote for the GRAND PRIZE winner!

The Grand Prize winner will win a Portrait package from Avant Garde Photography

Avant Garde Photography and Understand Photography

Check the website for entry fees, contest rules and deadlines.

Enter online at neafamily.com

NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

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13

NEW MOM’S CORNER

By Anna Snyder

Time and Space for the New Parent

I

love the song “Daughter” by Sleeping at Last. The songwriter, Ryan O’Neal, shares the overwhelming joy of watching his baby girl come into the world and the experience of becoming a parent. “If only you knew. The sunlight shines a little brighter. The weight of the world’s a little lighter. The stars lean in a little closer—all because of you.” As new parents, we can all identify with those words; the intense love parents feel for their children is unmatched.

When we become parents, it can be tempting to focus so intently and completely on our children that we have the potential to neglect who we are—our passions, our hobbies, and yes, even our relationships with others. Raising children takes a tremendous amount of energy, focus, and intention. But rather than giving up who we are and what we love when we become parents, we need to develop those passions in order to raise our children to

be fuller and more complete people. Yes, parenting involves sacrificing what we’d like to do at times in favor of caring for our children, but it doesn’t have to involve sacrificing 100% of who we are and what we enjoy at all times.

What exactly does this mean for the new parent? All parents must create time and space for themselves on a regular basis. This looks different for every family and situation. As I sought input for this article from Naples–area moms and dads, I encountered a wide range of parental experiences. Some parents couldn’t remember the last time they took time for themselves.

Others had the opportunity to take time every week to pursue passions, hobbies, or to just sit and read, even if it was for an hour or so. One mom schedules a day each month to go to the beach and then to Marshall’s and TJ Maxx. “My husband wants me to do this—I just put it on the

schedule. It allows him the freedom to be able to go fishing or golfing without feeling guilty, and it allows me to do what I enjoy on a regular basis.”

In single parent situations, or in situations in which a babysitter would be necessary, taking time to oneself is more difficult and might involve a carefully planned evening at home after children are asleep. A couple in Naples with four young children do a “no-light night” once a week, during which the TV remains off, they turn their devices off, and they read and discuss books, play board games, and pray with one another. Another parent in Naples regularly plans evenings during which she scrapbooks and makes cards after her children are asleep. A single mom I spoke with says she is always tempted to go home and sleep or just watch TV when her child’s father has her son for a couple of hours. “I make myself go to the beach

Every parent needs time to recharge! What have you done for YOU today?

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NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

or read at Barnes and Noble,” she said. “It brings me so much joy and recharges me.”

Taking time to ourselves takes energy and preparation (and maybe a cup of coffee or two). Most of us want to crash on the couch and fall asleep to Netflix at the end of the day. Or if given the opportunity to take a couple of hours to ourselves on the weekends, many moms and dads may feel guilty for spending precious weekend hours apart from their families. However, it is so important to take a break and continue to pursue what we love.

The Guilt This brings me to THE GUILT. As parents, many of us have experienced feeling badly when we do things for ourselves. Why do we feel this way? Here is what some area parents have to say: • “I think people feel guilty because of the perceived pressure to be super parents. If I’m not with my family, then surely that means I’m selfish. I’ve found that when I do go out by myself, that feeling disappears very quickly.” —Naples mom of three.

• “The only reason I feel guilty for getting

“alone time” is because usually I snap at someone before I realize I need to recharge.”

—Naples mom of two.

• “My wife does so much, and she is with our daughter all day, every day. I want her to be able to spend time doing what she loves apart from our family, running, reading, girls’ night out, crafting, etc. When she doesn’t take time for herself, I feel guilty for going fishing on the weekends.” —Naples dad of one.

• “I feel like I have to be able to do it all because my husband goes out and works. I should be able to handle all the home stuff without necessarily needing a break on a regular basis.” —Naples mom of one.

Ignoring the guilt seems essential based upon the conversations I had with parents. Everyone agreed that taking time alone was really important. “When I do it consistently, I feel like a more rested, appreciated mom and wife. I usually go out after the kids are in bed, and [my husband] goes out every Thursday. I’m happy he has a night to himself every week,” one mom commented.

What to Do:

Here are just a few ideas from other moms and dads on how they spend a few hours alone: “The beach!” –Naples mom of two.

“I attend a girls’ potluck dinner at my church once a month. I love going out for manicures with my sister.” –Naples mom of two.

“Pedicures, sitting at Second Cup to read, the beach, or the pool. I love girls’ nights out!”

–Naples mom of three.

“I usually pick things that are not toddler friendly, like window shopping or looking at books and magazines at Barnes and Noble.

–Fort Myers mom of one.

“I golf or brew beer.” –Naples dad of one.

“I run or cycle almost daily. I typically fish a couple times a month.” –Naples dad of one.

“I go to The Brick and do my Bible study. I like to wander the aisles of Target and go to the beach.” –Naples mom of three.

“I like being out with friends. Having adult conversations without being interrupted is what I miss.” –Naples mom of two.

“I work out alone regularly, play music and bike. Every Thursday, I go out with friends.”

–Naples dad of three.

Naples Preschool Academy Top Early Learning Center

Classes starting soon!

Tummy Time for Baby classes for newborns and their parents will provide hands-on tips and techniques for initiating and extending the amount of time your baby plays in the prone position

Take just one class for $20 or the 6-week series for $99

Janice Justiz, PT, c/NDT is a licensed physical therapist, whose expertise is in children’s movement and devlopment.

Parents will learn: • When to begin Tummy Time • How to incorporate the right amount of time into your daily routine • A variety of alternate positioning and carrying techniques • Developmentally appropriate play techniques • How to encourage the resistant baby to cheerfully accept tummy time play

Pediatric Therapy Intensives is a small, personalized practice offering physical therapy treatment for pediatric patients of all ages.

• Indoor And Outdoor Playground • Safe And Secure • Spacious Rooms • VPK Certified • Experienced Staff • Newborn to 5 Years old • Security System 1275 Airport Pulling Road S., Naples

(conveniently located near Collier County Courthouse)

(239) 403-7977

www.NaplesPreschoolAcademy.com

Call 239-571-7309 or email: ptijanice@gmail.com NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

neafamily.com

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CITY CONNECTION PARKS DEPT. by Laura Tichy-Smith

August Fun for Everyone Enjoy August with your family at these programs and events offered by the City of Community Services Department and local organizations: City Parks Summer Camps Continue

Free Summer Jazz Concert

Come On In, The Water’s Free!

Last-minute registration is still available for some city summer camps. Themes range from nature, art, science, computers, athletics, sports and performing arts. With an astonishing variety of themes offered at nine park locations, you’re sure to find a day camp to please every child in your household. While the camps are educational, your kids will be having so much hands-on fun they won’t even realize they are really learning. Camps run until school starts. For prices and more information, call (239) 213-3020.

Join the tradition of the once-a-month summer lawn parties the whole city loves as the Naples Beach Club Hotel hosts its Summer Jazz Series from 6:30-9:30 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 20. You can bring folding chairs for your family, but you likely won’t be sitting much as you boogie to the dynamic music of the award-winning Betty Fox Band from Tampa! Food and beverages available for purchase from the hotel.

Overflow parking at Lowdermilk Park. For more information, call (239) 435-4345.

(851 Gulf Shore Blvd. North, Naples)

The new River Park Aquatic Center is open.

Featuring fun for everyone from tiny tot to serious swimmer, pool admission is free to residents of Collier County. The kids will love the beach-like shallow end while the grownups will enjoy the lap swimming exercise lanes and sunbathing deck.

Parents will rest assured their children are in good hands with the Red Cross certified lifeguards on watchful duty. Current hours are Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. — 6 p.m. and Sunday 12 — 5 p.m. For information, call 239-213-3040. (451 11th St. North, Naples) Free Weekly Jazz Concerts The Naples Jazz Masters Band formed a few years ago as a year-round offshoot of the Naples Dixieland Jazz Band. They offer weekly Dixieland jazz concerts at the Norris Center at 1 p.m. every Saturday in August.

239-263-1113. (755 8th St. South, Naples) Children’s Fashion Show The children’s store All About April, located in The Village Shops on Venetian Bay, will present a fashion show on August 6 at noon. The show will include models ages 6-12. For more information, call 9612975. (4200 Gulf Shore Blvd N., Naples)

BACK TO SCHOOL! PMS CMYK RGB

Braces & Invisalign® Affordable payment plans Most insurances accepted We accept Florida Healthy Kids 476

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2367 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Suite 803 • Naples, FL 34109 16

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consultation & x-ray *Offer valid for comprehensive treatment only. Cannot be combined with all insurances.

| 239-260-2100 | NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

Providing Care for Infants, Toddlers, Preschool, VPK NOW OFFERING AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS K-5th GRADE



Children guided by a balanced curriculum of thirty-eight objectives that incorporates academics, and the individual needs of the child



Educated, compassionate, and skilled teachers

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Baby Sign Language used in all infant and toddler classrooms

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Instilling school preparedness through mathematics, science, literacy that enforces sight words, phonics, letter recognition, and a Kindergarten Readiness Program Parent Trainings and Workshops available!

Field trips including: Barnes & Noble, The Artis Naples, The Children’s Museum, Naples Zoo, The Conservancy of SWFL, The Glenview Naples, and the Naples Botanical Gardens Afterschool Program that includes homework time, tutoring, games, crafts, and snacks!



Secure gated entrance, cameras, and a staff training program dedicated to safety

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Nationally Recognized Breastfeeding Friendly Child Care Center

Call today to schedule a tour! 239-261-7442 PHONE

Precious Cargo Academy, a Mission of Naples United Church of Christ WEBSITE: Preciouscargoacademy.org

EMAIL: Leanne.badham@outlook.com

Find Us on Facebook!

NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

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through non-profit organizations that serve needy kids. The shoes are fitted and given in the privacy of the staff offices.

Sneakers in all sizes are needed. In addition, you can make a monetary donation. 100% of all monetary donations go toward purchasing new shoes for needy kids.

Donations can be mailed to: 1976 Bethany Place, Naples, FL 34109. In addition, shoe donations can be dropped off at Snyderman’s Shoes at 4910 Tamiami Trail N, Naples, 34103.

Shoes do not have to be purchased at Snyderman’s. You can also call Jeanne (239) 591-1172 to arrange a pick up for shoes you have collected. Check www.lacesoflove.org for information.

Project Outreach Back to School Bash Project Outreach will be offering free backpacks and school supplies to children attending Parkside Elementary School at their Back to School Bash on August 12 from 3:00 p.m. to 6 p.m. The organization is requesting donations of backpacks and school supplies as well as cash donations. A $25 donation will cover the cost of a backpack and supplies for one student. You can mail a check to: Project Outreach, Inc., 11665 Collier Blvd., #990279, Naples, Fl 34116. For more information call (239) 770-6787 or check http://projectoutreachnaples.com.

Shelter for Abused Women School Supply Drive Shelter for Abused Women & Children is requesting a variety of clothing and school supplies. Among the needed items are: solid color polo shirts, sneakers or tennis shows, underwear, socks, pens, pencils, notebooks, backpacks and gift cards to WalMart, Target JC Penney and Old Navy. Items should be new and unused and can be dropped at The Shelter’s Options Thrift Shoppe at 968 Second Avenue North, Naples. For more information call (239) 775-3862.

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Live, Learn, Lead

Excellent Education in the Catholic Tradition for Grades Pre-K through 8

The mission of Royal Palm Academy is to provide an education of rich academics with Catholic content while teaching the mind, educating the heart, and forming the character of tomorrow’s leaders.

239.594.9888 • www.royalpalmacademy.com 16100 Livingston Road • Naples, Florida 34110 Royal Palm Academy admits students regardless of race, color, national, or ethnic origin. Royal Palm Academy is a non-profit corporation.

Twinkle Twinkle Little Store Uniform Giveaway School aged children who attend the event on August 13 beginning at 9:00 a.m. will be able to select one solid color polo shirt and one khaki or navy colored short, pant or skirt. Children must be present, one uniform per child.

Twinkle Twinkle Little Store is located at 4172 Tamiami Trail N, Naples,. For more information call (239) 262-5904 or check www.twinkletwinklelittlestoreofnaples.com.

Youth Haven’s Backpack and School Supply Drive Youth Haven needs your help to supply the children of Youth Haven with school supplies for the new school year. The annual backpack and school supply drive runs through August 12. Supplies that are needed include large, heavy duty backpacks; basic school supplies; and gift cards for clothes to stores such as Target, Ross, TJ Max and Wal-Mart.

Drop off locations are at Youth Haven, 5867 Whitaker Rd Naples 34112 and any Il Primo Pizzeria locatons. If you would like more information contact Angela Navarro at angela. navarro@youthhavenswfl.org or call 239-687-5178.

If you have an update for this list, please email it to: info@neafamily.com so we can add it to the article posted at neafamily.com.

NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

neafamily.com

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through non-profit organizations that serve needy kids. The shoes are fitted and given in the privacy of the staff offices.

Sneakers in all sizes are needed. In addition, you can make a monetary donation. 100% of all monetary donations go toward purchasing new shoes for needy kids.

Donations can be mailed to: 1976 Bethany Place, Naples, FL 34109. In addition, shoe donations can be dropped off at Snyderman’s Shoes at 4910 Tamiami Trail N, Naples, 34103.

Shoes do not have to be purchased at Snyderman’s. You can also call Jeanne (239) 591-1172 to arrange a pick up for shoes you have collected. Check www.lacesoflove.org for information.

Project Outreach Back to School Bash Project Outreach will be offering free backpacks and school supplies to children attending Parkside Elementary School at their Back to School Bash on August 12 from 3:00 p.m. to 6 p.m. The organization is requesting donations of backpacks and school supplies as well as cash donations. A $25 donation will cover the cost of a backpack and supplies for one student. You can mail a check to: Project Outreach, Inc., 11665 Collier Blvd., #990279, Naples, Fl 34116. For more information call (239) 770-6787 or check http://projectoutreachnaples.com.

Shelter for Abused Women School Supply Drive Shelter for Abused Women & Children is requesting a variety of clothing and school supplies. Among the needed items are: solid color polo shirts, sneakers or tennis shows, underwear, socks, pens, pencils, notebooks, backpacks and gift cards to WalMart, Target JC Penney and Old Navy. Items should be new and unused and can be dropped at The Shelter’s Options Thrift Shoppe at 968 Second Avenue North, Naples. For more information call (239) 775-3862.

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Live, Learn, Lead

Excellent Education in the Catholic Tradition for Grades Pre-K through 8

The mission of Royal Palm Academy is to provide an education of rich academics with Catholic content while teaching the mind, educating the heart, and forming the character of tomorrow’s leaders.

239.594.9888 • www.royalpalmacademy.com 16100 Livingston Road • Naples, Florida 34110 Royal Palm Academy admits students regardless of race, color, national, or ethnic origin. Royal Palm Academy is a non-profit corporation.

Twinkle Twinkle Little Store Uniform Giveaway School aged children who attend the event on August 13 beginning at 9:00 a.m. will be able to select one solid color polo shirt and one khaki or navy colored short, pant or skirt. Children must be present, one uniform per child.

Twinkle Twinkle Little Store is located at 4172 Tamiami Trail N, Naples,. For more information call (239) 262-5904 or check www.twinkletwinklelittlestoreofnaples.com.

Youth Haven’s Backpack and School Supply Drive Youth Haven needs your help to supply the children of Youth Haven with school supplies for the new school year. The annual backpack and school supply drive runs through August 12. Supplies that are needed include large, heavy duty backpacks; basic school supplies; and gift cards for clothes to stores such as Target, Ross, TJ Max and Wal-Mart.

Drop off locations are at Youth Haven, 5867 Whitaker Rd Naples 34112 and any Il Primo Pizzeria locatons. If you would like more information contact Angela Navarro at angela. navarro@youthhavenswfl.org or call 239-687-5178.

If you have an update for this list, please email it to: info@neafamily.com so we can add it to the article posted at neafamily.com.

NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

neafamily.com

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BACK TO SCHOOL

Backpack & School Supply Giveaway at Salvation Army on August 5

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En ro 20 lling 16 -20 for 17

6400 DAVIS BOULEVARD, SUITE 103 | NAPLES, FL 34104

For the best care

In and out in about an hour Board Certified Physicians ✚ Most insurances plans accepted ✚ We treat kids of all ages! ✚ ✚

Walk-in or use our online self-scheduling tool.

www.epncare.com 20

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he Fifth Third Bank Back to School Backpack distribution begins on Friday, August 5, 2016 in Naples and Immokalee.

Backpacks and school supplies will be distributed from 8:30 a.m. to noon for pre-registered participants and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. for same-day applicants until supplies are depleted.

Parents/Guardians or those having legal custody are required to bring the following documentation to receive a backpack and school supplies for Back to School: • Birth Certificates for all eligible children in the home for grades K-12 • Proof of School Enrollment such as class schedule or report card • Proof of Monthly Household Income: Current paycheck stub, Social Security award letter, unemployment benefit paperwork.

If no income verification please bring Department of Children and family notice of case action letter (if it lists name, address, case number, benefit type and amount) otherwise, you must bring the benefits information statement (must include name, address, case number, benefit type and amount). If you do not receive a paycheck stub, please provide a notarized statement from your employer providing hourly pay, how long you have worked for the company and hours worked monthly.

• Proof of monthly household expenses – rent/mortgage, utilities, insurance, vehicle payment, vehicle repairs, gasoline, transportation, loans, medical, etc.

• Picture ID – (Driver’s license, state issued ID, governmental/ military ID, or passport or ID from country of origin) for all adult household members • Proof of Residency – current lease agreement, deed, or mortgage statement for the residence. If you are not the leaseholder of your residence, please provide a notarized statement from individual providing shelter indicating dates of stay, address and how much you pay monthly towards rent, if applicable.

The Salvation Army Naples is located at 3180 Estey Ave, Naples, Florida 34104. Call 239-2104009 for additional information.

NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

(239)

597-2343

Presents Summer Musicals!

Fri & Sat, August 5-6 at 7:30 pm Sun, August 7 at 2:00 & 7:30 pm

Announcing The Opening Of

BOOK BY TERRENCE MCNALLY WITH MUSIC BY MARC SHAIMAN AND LYRICS BY SCOTT WITTMAN AND MARC SHAIMAN • BASED ON THE DREAMWORKS MOTION PICTURE

The Whole Child Learning Center Florida virtual or Homeschool students!

We are a team of clinicians and educators offering a safe environment for your FL virtual or homeschool student to learn executive functioning, social, and coping skills. In the right environment, your child can exceed his/her current output and learn the skills needed to be highly successful. We will follow your IEP or 504 plan! Your child can stay after school for remediation (private pay) with your staff or ours, if needed.

Aug. 9 - 13 at 7:00 pm

Sessions Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday 9am-3pm • $600 Monthly • Social skills • Weekly individual session • Executive functioning • Weekly social/emotional report card • Emotional regulation • Weekly OT consult (sensory and motor) • YMCA trips twice a week to practice sportsmanship (membership required)

by Eric Price Tickets Available at The Naples Players Box Office 701 5th Avenue South or call 239-263-7990 www.naplesplayers.org

5495 Bryson Dr., Suite 423 Naples, 34109 (behind the YMCA) Audra Boxma LMHC, NCC, CCMHC,CART Licensed Mental Health Counselor & Supervisor Julie Mckenzie OTR/L Licensed Occupational Therapist • Kathleen Meyerson MS

Back-to-School

Special

Making an IMPACT on our community!

49

4 Week $ Trial

Plus FREE gloves & BullyProof Book!

Unleash the Hero Inside Your Kid

Call Today 239-596-1633 NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

Or Visit ImpactNaples.com neafamily.com

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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

How Salt Therapy Can Benefit Your Child

Our Educated and Dedicated Staff Encourages Creative, Expressive, Hands on Learning

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Your child will receive quality interaction with our low student-teacher ratios and will enjoy our spacious, shaded, fun-filled play area.

Serving children Infant - age 5 VPK Certified

Full-day, Half-day and partial week schedules available Where your child’s needs are our only priority.

727 108th Ave., Naples • 597-5748 License #C20C07416 smallworldelc@embarqmail.com • www.smallworldnaples.com

LEARNING CAN BE FUN Start the school year strong with custom tutoring sessions at Wise Minds Tutoring Center Tutoring for Grades K-12 • Free Assessment • No Contracts Flexible Scheduling • One on One Instruction • Sibling Discount Guaranteed Grade Level Improvement

espiratory diseases have increased worldwide with an increase in allergies, asthma, infectious disease, and cardiovascular disease. Regardless of the reason, the populations most affected include infants, children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. An interest in natural remedies is growing, too. Salt therapy is 100 percent natural, safe, and effective.

Children get sick easier and more often than adults because their immune systems take time to develop. But children get illnesses for other reasons, too. For instance, children are prone to: Breathing problems: Did you know that a child’s respiratory system is still developing until the age of nine?

Nasal problems: A child’s nasal passageway is narrower than an adult, putting them at risk for more frequent and severe colds, the flu, viruses, and other respiratory illnesses.

Lung problems: A child’s lungs are not able to filter large pollutants as successfully as an adult’s.

Salt therapy can cleanse and rejuvenate. As your child inhales minute natural Himalayan salt crystals in through their nose and as they pass through their respiratory system the salt works to help reduce inflammation, loosen mucus, eliminate bacteria and other germs, and open clogged passageways. Salt therapy can also reduce skin rashes or other skin-oriented issues such as eczema.

The Kids Salt Cave is a special room designed for children in which they can play as if on the beach while reaping the benefits of salt therapy. Research has been conducted regarding the effects of salt therapy on children attending institutions of general education confirming the therapeutic and prophylactic (meaning it prevents the spread or occurrence of disease or infection) effects of salt therapy on children.

Salt Therapy Grotto is located at 3443 Pine Ridge Road, suite 101, Naples. Call 239-598-0990 or check salttherapygrotto.com for additional information.

The Global Big Latch On at Twinkle Twinkle Little Store

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$100 off

’s Tuition First Mopirnesth8/31/16 Ex

1575 Pine Ridge Road, Suite 4, Naples, Florida 34109 • erin@wisemindslearning.com

239-631-2348 • www.WiseMindsLearning.com 22

neafamily.com

he Global Big Latch On takes place at locations around the world, where women gather together to breastfeed and offer peer support to each other. Their friends, family and community join this celebration to promote and support breastfeeding.

Twinkle Twinkle Little Store continues to be an annual host for the Big Latch On. Participants receive a goody bag for mom and baby, and older siblings are welcome to play on the free play area during the event. No reservations are required, just show up.

Twinkle Twinkle Little Store is located at 4172 Tamiami Trail North, Naples, Florida 34103. For questions, please contact us at twinkletwinklelittlestore@yahoo.com or call (239) 262-5904. You can also find information about the event at www.TwinkleTwinkleLittleStoreOfNaples.com.

NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

Miguel Argumosa, DMD., Erin M. Taylor, DMD, Nicole Eastham, DMD Board Certified Pedioatric Dentists

After-School Children’s Theatre Program Open to ages 6-15 Held at Pine Ridge Middle School

Fridays: 4:30PM-6:30PM

Alice In Wonderland 08/19/16 – 11/05/16

Snow White

11/18/16 – 02/18/17

Peter Pan

02/24/17 – 05/20/17 Participation fee required per production

Tish Poorman Producer/Director

239-571-3305 Seetishrun1@aol.com MCNA and CMS insurance accepted.

You can also find us on Facebook!

AFTER SCHOOL Program Camps

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Classes

Where: St. John the Evangelist 625 111th Ave N, Naples, FL 34108

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Music Lessons

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Makerspace

Science. Technology. Engineering. Ar ts. Music. Enrichment

When: M-F 3:00-6:30

Included: STEM class/Arts class, homework time, snack time, directed indoor and outdoor play

start date: August 15, 2016

price: $22/day or $99/week

Only 48 spots available!

NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

S.T.E.A.M. Lab

Class options: Minecraft, 3D Printing, S.T.E.A.M. Makerspace, Robotics Piano, Guitar/Ukulele, Voice, Art & Science

Free Transportation Provided from: Osceola, Pelican Marsh, Veterans Memorial, Sea Gate, Naples Park

www.fullsteamaheadFL.com info@fullsteamaheadFL.com

|

Call to Sign-up Soon!

239-451-3142

@fullsteamahd facebook.com/fullsteamaheadFL neafamily.com

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sunday

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5

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5:00 p.m. Sensory

2:00 p.m. Free Concerts at the Bandshell.

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9:00 a.m. Young Photographers Contest.

Last day to take your pictures to enter into our Young Photographers Contest, ages 17 and under. All photos must be entered by 4:00 p.m. August 19th. Please visit www. evergladeswondergardens. com for guidelines.Located at 27180 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs. Call 239-992-2591 for information.

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9:30 a.m. Essentials of Digital Photography Workshop. This class covers the essentials of your digital camera. Located at Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Road, Naples.

4:00 p.m. Lego Club at Estates Branch Library. Your LEGO® creation will be put on display at the library. Ages 5-11 years. Registration is not required.Located at Estates Branch Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples.

Call 239-455-8088 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

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8:30 a.m. RISE Homeschool Classes. Rise is

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10:00 a.m. WaterVentures Mobile Learning Lab at C’MON. Join the Water Ventures team as they visit us with their mobile learning lab teaching us about watersheds, conservation and being good stewards. Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, Livingston Road 15080 Livingston Road, Naples. Call (239) 514-0084 or check www. cmon.org for info.

7:00 p.m. KidzAct Presents: Emma A Pop Musical. This sparkling new musical features the hit songs of legendary girl groups and iconic singers. Located at Sugden Community Theatre, 701 5th Ave S Naples, FL, Naples. Call 434-7340, ext 39 or check http://www. naplesplayers.org for additional information.

10:00 a.m. FREE Summer Movies at Paragon Pavilion Theaters. Free children’s film every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday this summer. Go to www.paragontheaters.com for feature presentation. 833 Vanderbilt Beach Rd, Naples. Call 239596-0008 or check http:// www.paragontheaters.com for additional information.

8:30 a.m. 4th Annual Castles for Kids. Each team consists of 4 children and 1 adult. Registration includes lunch for the team, buckets and shovels, live entertainment, prizes and awards. For more information go to www. cmon.org. La Playa Beach and Golf Resort, 9891 Gulf Shore Drive, Naples. Call 239-5973123 for information.

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monday

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August

2:00 p.m. Free Concerts at the Bandshell.

Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park.Located at Cambier Park, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. Call 239213-3058 or check http:// www.naplesgov.com/index. aspx?NID=576 for additional information. Held weekly on Sunday.

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4:00 p.m. LEGO Club at Estates Branch Library. Your LEGO® creation will be put on display at the library. Ages 5-11 years. Registration is not required.Located at Estates Branch Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-455-8088 or check http:// public.collier-lib.org for additional information.\

Call for time. The Wizard of Oz at Broadway Palm Dinner Theater. Call for tickets and times through August 13. Tickets are now on sale and can be reserved by calling (239) 278-4422, by visiting BroadwayPalm.com or by stopping by the box office at 1380 Colonial Boulevard in Fort Myers.

wednesday

5:00 p.m. Walk at the Promenade. Lo-

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10:00 a.m. Lover’s Key Junior Ranger Adventure. Program is appropriate for kids aged 6 and up. Pre-registration is required, spaces are limited. To register, please call the Ranger Station at (239) 463-4588.Located at Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd, Estero. Call 239-463-4588 for additional information.

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7:05PM. Night of 1,000 Prizes. The Miracle will liuterally give away a thousand or more prizes. Miracle will be playing Charlotte beginning at 7:05p.m. Held at Hammond Stadium, Fort Myers. Call 239-768-4210 for additional information.

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6:00 p.m. Mercato Night Music Series. Featuring Rockin’ Horse.Located at Mercato, 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 or check http://www.mercatoshops.com for additional information.

thursday

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5:00 p.m. Parent Night Out . We’ll make gifts for our teachers, play fun games, and talk about our hopes and dreams for the year!

It’s $25 per family and pizza is included. Located at Cornerstone UMC, 8200 Immokalee RD., Naples. Call 239-3549160 or check http://www. cornerstonenaples.org/ for additional information.

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5

7:30 p.m. KidsAct Presents: Catch Me if You Can. August 5 - 7 Fri. - Sun. @ 7:30 PM August 7, Sun. @ 2 PM. Go to www. naplesplayers.org for tickets or call 239-434-7340.Located at Sugden Community Theatre, 701 5th Ave S Naples, FL, Naples. Call 434-7340, ext 39 or check http://www. naplesplayers.org for additional information.

friday

11:00 a.m. Summer

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9:00 a.m. Neapolitan Family Back to School Expo. Featuring vendors offering parents the opportunity to get information on goods and services families needed for the school year. Free entertainment, arts & crafts, and special giveaways. Greater Naples YMCA, 5450 YMCA Road, Naples. Call 239-2490779 or check neafamily.com for information.

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10:00 a.m. The Big Latch-On at Twinkle Twinkle Little Store. Join this celebration to promote and support breastfeeding.Located at Twinkle Twinkle Little Store, 4172 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-354-0033 or check http://twinkletwinklelittlestoreofnaples.com for additional information.

saturday

Best Bets

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5:00 p.m. Sensory Night at C’MON. C’mon provides Sensory Nights for children on the autism spectrum and or with other sensory integration disorders. Sensory Nights have limited participation in order to minimize crowds, and registration is required.Located at Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, Livingston Road 15080 Livingston

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2:00 p.m. Free Concerts at the Bandshell.

Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park.Located at Cambier Park, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. Call 239213-3058 or check http:// www.naplesgov.com/index. aspx?NID=576 for additional information.

NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

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8:30 a.m. RISE Homeschool Classes. Rise is a new program that offers homeschoolers in southwest Florida academic classes for middle school and high school students. Go to www.

Naplesrise.com to register.

Classes will be held at Center Point Church, 6590 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples.

cmon.org for info.

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6:00 p.m. Free Admission to The Baker Museum. A local band offers musical entertainment and audiences of all ages are welcome to view the galleries and learn from our docents.Located at Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples. Call 239597-1900 or check http:// www.thephil.org for additional information.

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5:00 p.m. Walk at the Promenade. Located at Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26795-27911 South Bay Drive, Bonita Springs. Call (800) 799-0178 or check www.promenadeshops.com for additional information.

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11:00 a.m. Summer Reading Triathlon Closing Ceremony.

Kids have been voting for their Favorite Hero and Place in books all summer.Located at Barnes & Noble, 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples.

Call 239-597-2040 or check http://bn.com for additional information.

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STEP 1: Get your Brace Place bus at your next visit. STEP 2: Take a creative picture incorporating your Brace Place bus. STEP 3: Post your picture on Instagram, Facebook or both with the hashtag #braceplacenaples and tag @braceplacenaples. Winners will be selected Friday, August 12.

Take one of our Brace Place buses with you on all of your summer adventures and you could win an iPad Air 2, an Apple Watch Sport or $100 cash!

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5:00 p.m. Sensory Night at C’MON. C’mon provides Sensory Nights for children on the autism spectrum and or with other sensory integration disorders.

Located at Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, 15080 Livingston Road, Naples. Call 239-514-0084 or check http:// www.cmon.org for additional information.

for information.

YOUR COMMUNITY AUGUST EVENTS CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS:

1 MONDAY

2 TUESDAY

To submit your event for both our online and print calendars go to www.neafamily.com and follow the instructions for setting up a calendar account and inputting event info.

8:00 a.m. Dog Days of Summer at Botanical Gardens. The family and the family dog both have the opportunity to visit the Garden and enjoy the canine-friendly atmosphere (with the exception of the Children’s Garden) every day of August during open hours of 8 am – 3 pm!Located at Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples. Call 239-643-7275 or check http://www.naplesgarden. org for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Moms and Tots Storytime with Miss Jessica and Miss Mary Ellen. A toddler favorite, the girls read, sing, dance and color, creating a fun atmosphere of learning and lots of laughter. Come and ask about the little green frog song. All ages are welcome!Located at Barnes & Noble, 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 or check http://bn.com for additional information.

The deadline for print calendar events is the 12th of the month preceding publication. You can submit events anytime for the online calendar.

8:30 a.m. 4th Annual Castles for Kids. Each team consists of 4 children and 1 adult. Registration includes lunch for the team, buckets and shovels, live entertainment, prizes and awards. For more information go to www.cmon.org.Located at La Playa Beach and Golf Resort, 9891 Gulf Shore Drive, Naples. Call 239-597-3123 or check http:// laplayaresort.com for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Beachcombing and Shelling Talk. What do wrack lines, jellies, blue buttons, beachhoppers, ghosts, sea pork, and beans have in common? Come find out at this lecture on Beachcombing & Shelling.Located at Barefoot Beach Preserve, 505 Barefoot Beach Blvd., Bonita Springs.

Call (239) 252-4000 or check http://www.friendsofbarefootbeach.org for additional information.

10:00 a.m. FREE Summer Movies at Paragon Pavilion Theaters. Free children’s film every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday this summer. Go to www.paragontheaters.com for feature presentation.Located at Paragon Pavilion Theaters, 833 Vanderbilt Beach Rd, Naples. Call 239-5960008 or check http://www.paragontheaters.com for additional information.

4:30 p.m. Meals of Hope Mobile Food Pantry.

The Meals of Hope Mobile Pantry will be on our campus every Tuesday beginning at 4:30 pm! Frozen food, fresh produce and canned goods will all be given away to families in need! Anyone is welcome!

Parking Lot 4:30 pm - 6:30 pmLocated at Greater Naples YMCA, 5450 YMCA Road, Naples. Call 239-597-3148 or check http://greaternaplesymca. org for additional information.

Happy kids. Sparkly smiles.

Try it at our office!

ZOOBY

Exclusively marketed by Denticator™

Dr. Marilyn C. Sandor, DDS, MS, PA

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Naples Pediatric Dentistry www.goodcheckup.com

239.592.0800

NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

pedi packages. We specialized in Glitter and

3 WEDNESDAY Call for time. The Wizard of Oz at Broadway Palm Dinner Theater.

Call for tickets and times through August 13. Tickets are now on sale and can be reserved by calling (239) 278-4422, by visiting BroadwayPalm.com or by stopping by the box office at 1380 Colonial Boulevard in Fort Myers.Located at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, 1380 Colonial Blvd, Naples. Call 239-2784422 or check http://www.BroadwayPalm.com for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Free Kids Crafts at Miromar Outlets. Kids from toddlers to twelve are invited to participate in fun activities.Located at Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Rd, Estero. Call 239-948-3766 or check http://www.miromaroutlets.com for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Art for Mom & Me at Rookery Bay. Local artist Marjorie Pesek will lead this 1-hour workshop for children and adults at all levels of creative talent. She will share her unique art technique of Layered Imagery. Registration fee ($25) includes one adult, one child and supplies.Located at Rookery Bay, 300 Tower Road, Naples. Call (239) 417-6310 or check http://www.rookerybay. org for additional information.

10:00 a.m. FREE Summer Movies at Paragon Pavilion Theaters. Free children’s film every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday this summer. Go to www.paragontheaters.com for feature presentation.Located at Paragon Pavilion Theaters, 833 Vanderbilt Beach Rd, Naples. Call 239-596-0008 or check http:// www.paragontheaters.com for additional information.

10:30 a.m. Family Story Time at Bonita Springs Library. This program is for the whole family and lasts about 30 minutes.Located at Bonita Springs Public Library, 26876 Pine Avenue, Bonita Springs. Call 239-992-0101 or check http://library.lee-county.com/services/locations/BN/pages/default.aspx for additional information.

1:00 p.m. Inventors Wanted: LittleBits at South County Regional Library.

Dust off your thinking caps and combine these electronic circuits to build an invention. littleBits is a platform of easy-to-use electronic building blocks for creating inventions large and small. For ages 8 and up.Located at South County Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for additional information.

6:00 p.m. Kidsummer JAM. Kids 3 years of age (must be potty trained) through 5th grade are invited to join us for a fun-filled night of exciting Bible stories, games, science experiments & crafts. Don’t miss the fun! Our free Bus Ministry is available for children 5 yea...Located at New Life Church Bonita Springs, 3971 Via Del Rey, Bonita Springs.

4 THURSDAY 10:00 a.m. FREE Summer Movies at Paragon Pavilion Theaters. Free children’s film every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday this summer. Go to www.paragontheaters.com for feature presentation.Located at Paragon Pavilion Theaters, 833 Vanderbilt Beach Rd, Naples. Call 239-596-0008 or check http:// www.paragontheaters.com for additional information.

6:00 p.m. Mercato Night Music Series. Featuring Rockin’ Horse.Located at Mercato, 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 or check http:// www.mercatoshops.com for additional information.

5 FRIDAY 10:00 a.m. Kids Free Fridays at Rookery Bay. This popular summer education program provides FREE admission for children ages 12 and younger who are accompanied by a paying adult. We recommend a ratio of no more than 3 kids per adult to ensure a safe and pleasurable experience.Located at Rookery Bay, 300 Tower Road, Naples. Call (239) 417-6310 or check http:// www.rookerybay.org for additional information.

12:00 p.m. Immokalee Sports Complex Back to School Bash. Music

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and refreshments available. $2.Located at Immokalee Sports Complex, 505 Escambia Street, Immokalee. Call (239) 657-1951 for additional information.

12:00 p.m. Baby Care Classes. For more information or to register to attend, contact Kristin Millet at 239-989-7332 or Kristin.Millet@LeeMemorial.org or Brenda Hernandez at 239-565-8371 or Brenda.Hernandez@LeeMemorial. org.Located at Greater Naples YMCA, 5450 YMCA Road, Naples. Call 239597-3148 or check http://greaternaplesymca.org for additional information.

5:00 p.m. First Friday’s Art for Art Lovers. Gourmet food, fine wine and art demonstrations.Located at Shoppes of Old Marco, 258 Royal Palm Dr, Marco Island. Call 239-394-2787 for additional information.

6:00 p.m. Wine Tasting & Live Music. Join us the first Friday of every month in the cafe and Lifestyle Center for wine-tasting and live music! This month enjoy over 25 wines from around the world. Proceeds benefit a local charity.

Payment is accepted in the cafe, upon arrival.Located at Whole Foods, 9101 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-552-5100 or check http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/naples for additional information.

7:30 p.m. KidsAct Presents: Catch Me if You Can. August 5 - 7 Fri. - Sun. @ 7:30 PM August 7, Sun. @ 2 PM. Go to www.naplesplayers.org for tickets or call 239-434-7340.Located at Sugden Community Theatre, 701 5th Ave S Naples, FL, Naples. Call 434-7340, ext 39 or check http://www.naplesplayers. org for additional information.

6 SATURDAY 7:30 a.m. Third Street South Farmer’s Market. Parking lot behind Tommy Bahama’s. Call 239-434-6533 or check http://info@napleschamber.org for additional information. Held weekly on Saturday.

8:00 a.m. Farmer’s Market. Open every Saturday (June to October) Indoors at the Shoppes at Vanderbilt unit 190-196Located at Shoppes at Vanderbilt, 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. Call 239-273-2350 or check https://www.facebook.com/pages/Shoppes-at-Vanderbilt-FarmersMarket/130258607139935 for additional information. Held weekly on Saturday.

8:00 a.m. Community Yard Sale. Find yard sale bargains with the convenience of having all the sales in one location. If you are interested in reserving a spot to sell used items please call the respective park location to reserve a spot.Located at Immokalee Community Park,, 321 North 1st Street, Immokalee. Call (239) 657-4449 for additional information.

9:00 a.m. Greenmarket. Join us on our 10-acre campus every Saturday to find an exclusive selection of locally grown, caught and cultivated foods and other products available to sample and purchase.Located at Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Boulevard, Fort Myers. Call 239-939-2787 or check http://www.artinlee.org for additional information.

9:00 a.m. Kids Free Saturdays at Conservancy. As part of the Conservancy’s commitment to connecting children with nature this summer, the Conservancy is offering up to four kids free with a paid adult ticket at $12.95.Located at Conservancy of Southwest Florida Nature Center, 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples. Call 239-262-0304 or check http://www.conservancy.org for additional information. Held weekly on Saturday.

9:30 a.m. Saturday Swamp Meditation. Swamp Meditation is $20, including boardwalk admission. To register or for more information, contact Roswitha Marold at rzmarold@audubon.org or call 239-348-9151, ext. 106.Located at Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, 375 Sanctuary Road W., Naples. Call 239348-9151 or check http://corkscrew.audubon.org for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Free Kids Fishing at Bass Pro Shops. We provide the Rod and Reel, and the Bait....all you need to provide is the kid who wants to have a fun time fishing!! Hope to see you on the First Saturday of each month....from 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM!!Located at Bass Pro Shops, 10040 Gulf Center Drive, Fort Myers. Call 239-461-7800 for additional information.

10:00 a.m. The Big Latch-On at Twinkle Twinkle Little Store. Join this celebration to promote and support breastfeeding.Located at Twinkle Twinkle

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NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

Little Store, 4172 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-354-0033 or check http://twinkletwinklelittlestoreofnaples.com for additional information.

11:00 a.m. Barnes and Noble Storytime. Located at Barnes & Noble, 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 or check http://bn.com for additional information. Held weekly on Saturday.

11:00 a.m. Back to School Fashion Show at Miromar Outlets. Featuring the latest back-to-school styles and brands available for children, college students, and teachers, at Miromar Outlets!Located at Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Rd, Estero. Call 239-948-3766 or check www.miromaroutlets.com for additional information.

12:00 p.m. Children’s Fashion Show. The show will include models ages 6-12, who will walk the runway.Located at The Village on Venetian Bay, 4200 Gulf Shore Blvd North, Naples. Call 239-261-6100 or check http://www. venetianvillage.com for additional information.

12:00 a.m. MindBodyCAN. CollegeCAN, a junior board of the Cancer Alliance of Naples (CAN), invites the public to a day of health & wellness. The event will be family-friendly and will provide cooking demonstrations, fitness activities, health screenings, live music, kids corner and speakers on a variety of health & wellness topics. Raffle prizes for local restaurants, hotels and gifts will be highlighted. There will also be health & wellness support for cancer survivors and those affected by cancer. Held at Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples. Email jodi@cancernaples.com for information.

5 a.m. Back to School at the Point. Rock climbing wall, inflatable slide, fashion show, giveaways, Zootopia and much more. Held at Coconut Point, 23106 Fashion Drive, Estero. Call 239-992-9966 for additional information.

Outside the Box PROGRAMS

Multimedia Art, Yoga & More

7:00 p.m. Get Pop-Cultured at Barnes & Noble. Come and explore the Marvel Universe with a special offer and exclusive samplers, including the first storyline for Mosaic. Also enjoy trivia, coloring, cosplay and more.Located at Barnes & Noble, 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 or check http://bn.com for additional information.

7 SUNDAY 8:00 a.m. Farmer’s Market at Koreshan State Park. Experience a unique Farmer’s Market in the historic settlement of the Koreshans. Fresh and local goods including seafood, flowers, honey, vanilla, Key Lime goodies, coffee & teas, hot crepes, artisan breads, produce, handmade crafts and more!Located at Koreshan State Historic Site, 3800 Corkscrew Road, Naples. Call 239-9920311 or check www.floridastateparks.org for additional information. Held weekly on Sunday.

2:00 p.m. Free Concerts at the Bandshell. Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park.Located at Cambier Park, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-213-3058 or check http://www.naplesgov. com/index.aspx?NID=576 for additional information. Held weekly on Sunday.

We Offer: Multimedia Art, Fashion, Theater, Film, Spanish, Yoga, Karate Register now for spring classes that begin April 18 Classes for children 8 months to 14 years old PLUS: BIRTHDAY PARTIES, EVENTS, & SUMMER CAMPS 1660 Trade Center Way, Naples, FL 34109

239-272-6152 • www.houseofgaia.org

8 MONDAY 9:30 a.m. Essentials of Digital Photography Workshop. If you want to get the best pictures possible, and truly understanding your camera’s features, the Essentials of Digital Photography: How to get the most from your digital camera workshop is for you. This class covers the essentials of your digit...Located at Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Road, Naples.

9 TUESDAY 9:30 a.m. Drawing in Graphite and Colored Pencil. Join renown Lee Hammond, Rookery Bay Reserve’s Artist in Residence, for an art program this summer and explore the magic of drawing and painting. Hammond has been a professional artist and art instructor for more than 30 years. She has published...Located at Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, 300

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Tower Road, Naples.

7:00 p.m. KidzAct Presents: Emma A Pop Musical. This sparkling new musical features the hit songs of legendary girl groups and iconic singers from the Supremes to Katy Perry. Don’t miss this one!Located at Sugden Community Theatre, 701 5th Ave S Naples, FL, Naples. Call 434-7340, ext 39 or check http://www.naplesplayers.org for additional information.

Heather Bladich Hair by Heather

(239) 285-9505

Phoenix Salon Suites, #115, 1485 Pine Ridge Rd, Naples Expert Cuts & Color

MONTESSORI

A c a d e m y o f N a pl e s

A life-long joy of learning, an education for life INFANT TODDLER CHILDREN’S HOUSE With Integrated VPK

ELEMENTARY ADOLESCENT Programs for Ages 8-weeks to 15-years

Join us for Open House Saturday, August 13, 2016 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 Noon

or

Call us to schedule a Private Tour 239-597-2255 More information can be found on our website

www.naplesmontessori.org

2659 Professional Circle, Suite 1118, Naples, Florida 34119 License #C20CO0026 DAILY HOURS 7:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M.

Check out our schedule at www.CollierAdultEd.com

Call 239.377.1234 with questions 3 Ar

t Cla sses 3 Fo reign Lang Clas uage ses 3 Co mpu te Clas ses r

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10 WEDNESDAY 9:30 a.m. Painting in Acrylics. Join renown Lee Hammond, Rookery Bay Reserve’s Artist in Residence, for an art program this summer and explore the magic of drawing and painting. Hammond has been a professional artist and art instructor for more than 30 years. She has published...Located at Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Road, Naples.

4:00 p.m. LEGO Club at Estates Branch Library. Share ideas, be creative, make new friends and have fun! LEGO® bricks will be provided. Your LEGO® creation will be put on display at the library. Ages 5-11 years. Registration is not required.Located at Estates Branch Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-455-8088 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.\

11 THURSDAY 7:05PM. Night of 1,000 Prizes. The Miracle will liuterally give away a thousand or more prizes. Miracle will be playing Charlotte beginning at 7:05p.m. Held at Hammond Stadium, Fort Myers. Call 239-768-4210 for additional information.

13 SATURDAY 9:00 a.m. Neapolitan Family Back to School Expo. The Back to School Expo will feature more than 55 vendors offering parents the opportunity to get information on goods and services families needed for the school year. In addition, there is entertainment, arts & crafts, and special giveaways. Located at Greater Naples YMCA, 5450 YMCA Road, Naples. Call 239-249-0779 or check neafamily.com for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Twinkle School Uniform Giveaway. Schoolage children who attend the event are able to select one solid color polo shirt and one khaki or navy colored short, pant or skirt. Children must be present, one uniform per child. Located at Twinkle Twinkle Little Store LLC, 4172 Tamiami Trail North, Naples.

10 AM. Open House at Montessori Academy. Openings for infant through 15 years. To schedule your tour, call 239-597-2255. Located at 2659 Professional Circle, Suite 1118, Naples. Check www.naplesmontessori.org.

4:00 p.m. Lego Club at Estates Branch Library. Share ideas, be creative, make new friends and have fun! LEGO® bricks will be provided. Your LEGO® creation will be put on display at the library. Ages 5-11 years. Registration is not required.Located at Estates Branch Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples.

Call 239-455-8088 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for information.

14 SUNDAY 2:00 p.m. Free Concerts at the Bandshell. Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park.Located at Cambier Park, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-213-3058 or check http://www.naplesgov. com/index.aspx?NID=576 for additional information.

4:00 p.m. Lego Club at Estates Branch Library. Share ideas, be creative, make new friends and have fun! LEGO® bricks will be provided. Your LEGO® creation will be put on display at the library. Ages 5-11 years. Registration is not required.Located at Estates Branch Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W.,

NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

Now Accepting Patients • Specializing in Infants, Children and Teens with over 15 years experience.

• After-school and Saturday appointments available.

• Most insurance accepted.

Reg ister today for

SUMMER CAMP! NOW thru August 12th Mon/Wed/Fri 9am-1pm For kids ages 2½ & up (potty-trained, please) MyGymNaples (239) 431-6499 13020 Livingston Road naples@mygym.com mygym.com/naples

BUY 4 DAYS, GET 1 FREE

We’re so excited to be in Naples!

Office now open Dr. Jennifer B. Hughes, DMD Pediatric Dentist 1879 Veterans Park Dr, Suite 1203 Naples, FL 34109

Phone: 239-260-7672 Fax: 239-790-0927 PediatricDentistryofNaples.com

Must choose 5 days at time of payment.

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Mark Your Calendar For

FREE SUMMER MOVIES at

O u r fr

ee summer movies are for families

p l ea s irectors, D p m a C .

e see management for field trip pricing.

10:00 AM • Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays First Come, First Served; Box Office Will Open at 9:30 AM June 21-23

July 12-14

August 2-4

Diary Of A Wimpy Kid

Mr. Peabody and Sherman

Ramona and Beezus

How To Train Your Dragon 2

July 19-21

Home

July 5-7

July 26-28

Big

Peanuts Movie

June 28-30

brought to you by:

The Sandlot

August 9-11 August 16-18

Alvin and the Chipmunks: Road Chip

9 0 ’ S TO N OW

PARAGONTHEATERS.COM 32

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NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

Naples. Call 239-455-8088 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

15 MONDAY 9:00 a.m. Young Photographers Contest. Last day to take your pictures to enter into our Young Photographers Contest, ages 17 and under. All photos must be entered by 4:00 p.m. August 19th. Please visit www.evergladeswondergardens.com for participation guidelines.Located at Everglades Wonder Gardens, 27180 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs. Call 239-992-2591 or check http://www.evergladeswondergardens.com for additional information.

August Picks in Lee County

16 TUESDAY 12:00 a.m. Movies on the Lawn. Third Tuesdays at dusk. Featuring Jaws.Located at Mercato, 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 or check http://www.mercatoshops.com for additional information.

10:00 a.m. WaterVentures Mobile Learning Lab at C’MON. Join the Water Ventures team as they visit us with their mobile learning lab that travels throughout the state teaching us about watersheds, conservation and being good stewards of our most important resource, WATER!Located at Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, Livingston Road 15080 Livingston Road, Naples.

Call (239) 514-0084 or check http://www.cmon.org for additional information.

6:15 p.m. Discover Your World: Bollywood Dancing and Henna at South County Regional Library. Join us for a celebration of South Asian cultures with traditional clothing, crafts, music and dancing.Located at South County Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for additional information.

18 THURSDAY

Back to School at the Point Coconut Point, 23106 Fashion Dr, Estero

10:00 a.m. Lover’s Key Junior Ranger Adventure. Program is appropriate for kids aged 6 and up. Pre-registration is required, spaces are limited. To register, please call the Ranger Station at (239) 463-4588.Located at Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd, Estero. Call 239-463-4588 for additional information.

Saturday, August 6 at 5 - 8 p.m.

Rock climbing wall, inflatable slide, fashion show, giveaways, Zootopia and more!

239-992-9966

6:00 p.m. Third Thursday on Third Street South. Live music in the Fleischmann Courtyard.Located at Third Street South, , Naples. Call 239-434-6533 or check http://info@napleschamber.org for additional information.

Thursday, August 11 at 11 a.m.

Children will observe and learn about hand-washing, X-rays, splinters and more.

Teddy bears will be provided to all children who are registered. 239-479-4636

19 FRIDAY Call for time. The Sound of Music. Presented by CFABS Youth Players. A fun show for the whole family with one of the most inspirational finales. Held at Center for the Performing Arts, 10150 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs.

Call 239-495-8989 for additional information.

5:00 p.m. Parent Night Out . Celebrate with us at our Back to School Bash Parent Night Out! We’ll make gifts for our teachers, play fun games, and talk about our hopes and dreams for the year! It’s $25 per FAMILY and pizza is included. 4th and 5th graders can stay over night...Located at Cornerstone UMC, 8200 Immokalee RD., Naples. Call 239-354-9160 or check http:// www.cornerstonenaples.org/ for additional information.

5:00 p.m. 4th and 5th Lock-in. Following our Parent Night Out, all 4th and 5th graders can stay the night for a fun lock in with games, dancing, movies, and more! This event costs $10 and pre-registration is required. Breakfast is provided. So take the night off and let your k...Located at Cornerstone UMC, 8200 Immokalee RD., Naples. Call 239-354-9160 or check http://www. cornerstonenaples.org/ for additional information.

5:30 p.m. Preview Reception and Awards Election for Your Choice 2016.

Your Choice 2016 Exhibition invites artists to submit any work of any theme of their choosing. Then, the awards will be based on votes from the viewing

NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

Preschool Teddy Bear Clinic

Northwest Regional Library, 17455 Summerlin Rd., Fort Myers

Night of 1,000 Prizes

Hammond Stadium, Fort Myers Thursday, August 11 at 7:05 p.m.

The Miracle will literally give away a thousand or more prizes!

Miracle vs Charlotte. 239-768-4210

The Sound of Music

Center for Performing Arts - Hinman Auditorium 10150 Bonita Beach Rd, Bonita Springs August 19 - 21

Presented by CFABS Youth Players. A fun show for the whole family with one of the most inspirational finales. 239-495-8989

Carnival Capers

South County Regional Library 21100 Three Oaks Parkway, Estero Saturday, August 27 at 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Music, balloons, book character appearances, yard games, refreshments and raffles. 239-479-4636

Lee County’s Original Family Publication

FOR 25 YEARS!!

www.leefamilynews.net neafamily.com

33

ABC Swim School Survival Swimming for Babies & Toddlers

6 months old to 6 years old • One-on-one instruction

public. Join us for a celebration of choice in art! Preview Reception and Awards Election...Located at Naples Art Association, 585 Park St. Naples, Florida 34102 Park St., Naples. Call 239-262-6517 x 100 for additional information.

7:00 p.m. CFABS Youth Players Present: The Sound of Music. Friday & Saturday; August 19 & 20, 2016 at 7:00pm Matinee on Saturday & Sunday; August 20 & 21 at 2:00pm Tickets: $20 Premium Reserved Seating / $13 General AdmissionLocated at Center for Performing Arts – Hinman Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd, Bonita Springs. Call (239) 495-8989 or check http://www.artcenterbonita.org for additional information.

20 SATURDAY

239-272-0529

www.abcswimschool.com PediaSwim & WSI/CPR certified

8:00 a.m. Community Yard Sale. Find yard sale bargains with the convenience of having all the sales in one location. If you are interested in reserving a spot to sell used items please call the respective park location to reserve a spot.Located at Max A. Hasse Jr. Community Park, 3390 Golden Gate Pkwy, Naples. Call 239-348-7500 or check http://colliergov.net for information.

10:00 a.m. Democratic Women’s Club of Collier County. Join us to discuss issues important to all progressive Democrats through the eyes of the Democratic Women of Collier County and their supporters.Located at Walden Oaks, 6710 Lone Oak Blvd., Naples. Call 239-434-7754 for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Back to School Party at Sun-N-Fun Lagoon. $8 for Over 48 inches and $4.50 for Under 48 inches.Located at Sun-N-Fun Lagoon, 15000 Livingston Road, Naples. Call (239) 252-4021 or check http://www.napleswaterpark.com for additional information.

11:30 a.m. Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Fashion Show for PACE. $50.00 per person with new or gently loved dress. Go to http://www.pacecenter.org/ love-that-dress for tickets.Located at Olde Cypress Golf & Country Club, 7165 Treeline Drive, Naples.

Who benefits from Pediatric Massage?

Massage therapy for children is rapidly being integrated in pediatric hospitals, mental health services, school systems and in families with special needs children including: • Autism • Tortocollis • ADD/ADHD • Sensory Processing Disorder • Reactive Attachment Disorder • Cystic Fibrosis • Chronic Illness • Diabetes • Sleep Difficulties and more

595-4073

mothernurt@yahoo.com (239) 501 Goodlette Rd., North, Bldg. D-100 MA47189 Naples, Florida 34102 MM23779

LITTLE PEOPLE’S SCHOOL • For 2-5 year olds 868 94th Ave. N, Naples (239) 597-5064

4:00 p.m. LEGO Club at South Regional Library. Join this new club and share ideas, be creative, make new friends and have fun! LEGO® bricks will be provided. Your LEGO® creations will be put on display at the library. Ages 5-11 years. Registration is not required.Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check http://public. collier-lib.org for additional information.

4:00 p.m. LEGO Build Event at Barnes & Noble. Kids ages 6 and up are invited to join us for our latest LEGO Build Event. Participants will get to explore their creativity on this entertaining, team-building occasion.Located at Barnes & Noble, 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 or check http://bn.com for additional information.

6:00 p.m. Summer Jazz on the Gulf. The Betty Fox Band will be performing.Located at Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club, 851 Gulf Shore Blvd.

North, Naples. Call 239-261-2222 or check http://www.naplesbeachhotel. com/ for additional information.

21 SUNDAY 2:00 p.m. Free Concerts at the Bandshell. Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park.Located at Cambier Park, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-213-3058 or check http://www.naplesgov. com/index.aspx?NID=576 for additional information.

23 TUESDAY

• Top Rated VPK • Preschool Classes • Summer Camp www.LittlePeoplesSchool.info 34

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5:00 p.m. Sensory Night at C’MON. C’mon provides Sensory Nights for children on the autism spectrum and or with other sensory integration disorders. Sensory Nights have limited participation in order to minimize crowds, and registration is required.Located at Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, 15080 Livingston Road, Naples. Call 239-514-0084 or check http://www. cmon.org for additional information.

NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

NEWS

24 WEDNESDAY

FAMILY NEWS

8:30 a.m. RISE Homeschool Classes. Rise is a new program that offers homeschoolers in southwest Florida academic classes for middle school and high school students. Now accepting students for the 2016-2017 school year.

Go to www.Naplesrise.com to register. Classes will be held at Center Point Church, 6590 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples.

25 THURSDAY FAMILY NEWS

5:00 p.m. Walk at the Promenade. Located at Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26795-27911 South Bay Drive, Bonita Springs. Call (800) 799-0178 or check www.promenadeshops.com for additional information.

27 SATURDAY

NURTURING FREE ANDXXXX CRITICAL x 2010 THINKERS OF ALL AGES at the Church of OPEN minds, HELPING Hands, and LOVING Hearts.

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Naples 6340 Napa Woods Way, Naples Close to 75 & Pine Ridge Rd 239.784.4580

uunaples.org or UUA.org XXXX 2010

11:00 a.m. Carnival Capers at South County Regional Library. Dust off your thinking caps and combine these electronic circuits to build an invention. littleBits is a platform of easy-to-use electronic building blocks for creating inventions large and small. For ages 8 and up.Located at South County Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for additional information.

11:00 a.m. Summer Reading Triathlon Closing Ceremony. Join us for the Closing Ceremony of our Summer Reading Triathlon. Kids have been voting for their Favorite Hero and Place in books all summer.Located at Barnes & Noble, 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 or check http:// bn.com for additional information.

XXXX 2010

x XXXX 2010 Bring the entire family!

x

Temple Shalom Preschool x

Planting the Seeds in the Minds of our Future Exceptional Education for ages 2 - 5

i NOW REGISTERING i for 2016-2017 school year

11:00 AM. Carnival Capers. Music, balloons, book character appearances, yard games, refreshments and raffles. Held at South Cunty regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Parkway, estero. Call 239-479-4636 for additional information.

28 SUNDAY

C A M P 31 WEDNESDAY C 6:00 p.m. Free Admission to The Baker Museum. Enjoy free admission C of each month from 6 toA to The Baker Museum the last Wednesday 9pm. A local band offers musical entertainment and audiences of all ages are welcome A M5833 to view the galleries and learn from our docents.Located at Artis-Naples, Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples. Call 239-597-1900 or check http://www.thephil.

M org for additional information.

P C

5:00 p.m. Sensory Night at C’MON. C’mon provides Sensory Nights for children on the autism spectrum and or with other sensory integration disorders. Sensory Nights have limited participation in order to minimize crowds, and registration is required.Located at Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, Livingston Road 15080 Livingston Road, Naples. Call (239) 514-0084 or check http://www.cmon.org for additional information.

A M P

P

the

TSP

TempleShalomPre sch ool.org Daily Lessons:

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BACK TO SCHOOL

By Stacy Nicolau

Meet The Collier County School Board Candidates

I

n addition to picking out new backpacks and school supplies, residents of Collier County will be selecting two new Collier County Public School Board members in a primary election on August 30.

The seats for District 2 and District 4 are up for election. The current school board members for those districts, Kathleen Curatolo and Julie Sprague, are not seeking re-election.

The terms are staggered and are held for four years, with no limit to the amount of terms a member can serve if elected. In addition to appointing the Superintendent of Schools, the five-member board is responsible for making decisions that affect the daily operations of the public schools in the district.

“Parents sometimes feel like they don’t have much of a say in their children’s education,” Current school board member Erika Donalds says. “That changes at the ballot box. The school board enacts policies and provides accountability to ensure a high quality education system for our students. Parents should be informed and vote for the candidates who will represent them and their students’ best interest.”

Another way to be involved in your child’s education is to attend school board meetings, which are open to the public. Upcoming meetings and agendas are posted at the District website: www.collierschools.com/collier.

Below is a profile of the candidates running for the Collier County School Board.

The information for this article was submitted by the candidates and does not represent an endorsement by Neapolitan Family Magazine. Submissions were edited for space and clarity. To learn more about each candidate or to contact them, please go to their websites.

DISTRICT 2 (Barron Collier High, Naples Park Elementary, North Naples Middle, Osceola Elementary, Pelican Marsh Elementary, Pine Ridge Middle and Veterans Memorial Elementary)

STEPHANIE LUCARELLI www.votelucarelli.com

Background: Stephanie Lucarelli and her husband, Dominec, have a large extended family that owns several small businesses in Naples. Their 36

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four children attend traditional public schools from elementary to high school, and they span the full spectrum of learning abilities from special needs to gifted.

Experience: Lucarelli earned a bachelors degree from Rutgers University. She taught 8th grade science and developed curriculum before moving to Naples in 2002.

Lucarelli has served countless hours over the last 12 years volunteering on District level committees, with teachers, and as PTO president at Naples Park Elementary School for eight years.

Platform: Students: All children, regardless of their career path or goals they set for themselves post-high school, deserve to be educated in an environment that fosters a love of learning, not a stressful, test-centered one.

Teachers: We need to offer respect, support and the appropriate time to do what they need to do to properly educate our children, and allow them the opportunity to have a role in choosing the resources that will supplement their curriculum.

Testing: Lucarelli is in favor of reducing

the amount of District tests, and would put pressure on legislature to also minimize the standardized tests the children take.

Budget: Funds should be disbursed to the areas of greatest need. Begin to replenish the programs that were cut during the recession.

LOUISE PENTA

www.louisepenta.com

Background and experience: Louise Penta started her lifelong career of service as an operating room nurse. She then dedicated her time toward children suffering from diabetes. Penta has served on the Board of the Immokalee Foundation for eight years and has helped raise over $2.7 million for the education of underserved children in Immokalee. Penta personally mentored five students, which earned her Take Stock in Children Mentor of the Year for the State of Florida. She is the founding member and supporter of the P. Anthony Penta Scholarship Fund for medical students at Boston University School of Medicine.

Platform: Classical Education: Penta advocates the study of literature, language, humanities, history, math and the arts.

Common Core: Penta believes Common Core needs to be overturned in order to give teachers control of their classrooms.

High Stakes Testing: Needs to be elimiNEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

nated in favor of a more comprehensive yearly evaluation.

Restore Local Control and Promote Fiscal Responsibility: Money spent at the local and state level needs to be more efficient, more effective and more accountable.

The District should not be in a position of accepting monies or a coercive action from Washington, if they don’t comply with a mandate.

Budget: The budget needs a complete revamping, starting with an independent and internal audit.

Supports School Choice: School Choice gives lower and middle-class families the same mobility as the wealthy by providing them the means to choose the best schools for their children.

Restore Discipline: Hold students accountable for their actions.

Promote a Parent, Teacher and Student Centered System: Change school board meetings to be held at times when parents can attend.

Establish a Mentoring Program: Mentoring teaches life skills and encourages students to think about college and careers.

DISTRICT 4 (Alternative Schools, Avalon Elementary, East Naples Middle, Gulfview Middle, Lake Park Elementary, Naples High, Poinciana Elementary, Sea Gate Elementary, Lorenzo Walker Institute of Technology and Lorenzo Walker Technical High School)

ERICK CARTER

www.erickcarter.com

school, Erick was very active in student government and served as the student liaison to the Dorchester County School Board and Superintendent. With great pride, Erick participated in high school athletics under the mentorship of Summerville High School Coach John McKissick, the winningest football coach in the nation.

With Erick’s athletic skills and his passion for the arts, he became a ballroom dance instructor. As an instructor for a national company, he had opportunity to teach in Naples. A short time later, he fell in love with both the area and his future wife, Anita Ruiz. Erick and Anita have been married for 19 years and are raising their son Blake, in Collier County.

For the past 18 years, Erick and Anita have been co-owners of the successful local business, Salon Zenergy. Their son attended Sea Gate Elementary and is now enrolled in Gulfview Middle School and is active in after-school sports and activities.

Experience: Professionally, Carter has served as a board member in several condominium associations, as a national educator for his industry and as a guest instructor at Lorenzo Walker Technical College. In the community, he has supported the Zonta Club of Naples, PACE Center for Girls, Bosom Buddies of Naples, Makeover in Paradise, Santa’s Workshop, Hats in the Garden and Collier Literacy.

Platform: Truth in Budget: Solutions to cut expenses need to make sense.

Skilled Career Workforce: Carter states that our community has seen a shortage of skilled workers in the medical and construction industries. He will work to ensure our children have pathways to build a successful career in their chosen field.

School Testing: While Carter believes students are over tested, the bottom line is the school system must maintain accreditation in order for our students to compete globally.

Background: Erick was raised in Summerville, South Carolina, in the Charleston area. In high NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

School Choice: Carter believes parents should have every right to choose the school that best represents their needs and talents.

LEE DIXON

www.leedixon2016.com

Background: Born at Homestead Air Force Base, Florida, Lee Dixon was raised in South Florida and attended public schools at every level. After attending the University of Nebraska-Lincoln on a golf scholarship for one year, Lee returned to Florida to attend the University of Miami, where he majored in communications. He began his career as a golf course superintendent in 1992 and moved to Naples in 1995. Married for 14 years to his wife Patricia, they have three sons: Adam (28), Travis (13) and Tyler (10).

Experience: Dixon has served on the Wellness Committee, School Advisory Council and as Parent Education Exceptional Resource Liaison at North Naples Middle School. At the District level he served on the Exceptional Student Education Advisory Committee for Collier County Public Schools.

Platform: Dixon plans to: • Restore public trust through fiscal responsibility and audit the $1 billion budget • End high stakes testing • Improve students’ academic performance • Empower teachers to teach subjects and not to tests • Treat and pay teachers as professionals • Treat parents and stakeholders as partners • Strengthen our curriculum and stop Common Core • Restore local control of education • Rewrite the superintendent’s evaluation to place a greater emphasis on student performance. neafamily.com

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BACK TO SCHOOL

By Ashley Talmadge

Back-to-School Butterflies?

Helping Your Child Calm the Jitters

C

olin was starting 6th grade in a new school. At an orientation event, he became visibly unnerved as he struggled with the combination on a sticky locker. “He was concerned that he wouldn’t be able to open his locker with only four minutes between classes,” says mom Lynn Brown.

Colin’s particular fear is surprisingly common, and so is his apprehension about the beginning of a new school year. Most kids experience a few butterflies in the first weeks. And the source of such uneasiness is not always obvious to parents.

What kids worry about.

Age, experience, and temperament all determine a child’s concerns. Children with little experience outside the home may have separation anxiety. “Being in the care of adults other than their parents can be stressful for some children,” notes Deb Cockerton, a child and youth behavioral counselor. These youngsters also worry about practical matters, such as finding the bathroom and getting on the right bus.

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When they’re a bit older, children worry about whether they’ll have friends in their class and where they’ll sit at lunch.

Older tween-age students are “concerned about how they will fit in with their peers, and how they will do academically,” says Cockerton. The start of puberty and issues like cyberbullying, body image, and athletic ability may be additional stressors.

Some worries are not obvious to parents. Kerry Norris, principal and longtime educator, says, “There are always some things we don’t think of as adults…We’ve had little ones who are afraid to flush the toilet in the loud echo-prone bathrooms.”

Older kids who are beginning to measure themselves against peers, may feel humiliated if they wear the “wrong” clothes or come to school with a “nerdy” haircut.

Major transitions can cause feelings of insecurity, even if a child has previously done well. Brown says that Colin was “extremely successful and a model student” during his elementary years. Yet, as a kid who “thrives on routine and predictability,” it took time for Colin to adjust to the new

academic expectations, the more complicated schedule, and the pre-teen social dynamics of his new school.

Signs of anxiety.

Kids express anxiety in many ways. Some are vocal and quite specific about their concerns. But more often it is a child’s behavior that indicates his distress. Cockerton says, “The younger child can become more ‘clingy,’ not wanting to leave mom’s side.”

The tummy ache is a common symptom of stress in younger kids.

Older children can also suffer physical symptoms, such as headaches. They may eat more or less than usual when they’re feeling anxious, and Norris notes they may also experience sleep interruptions and moodiness.

How parents can help.

Kids feel more confident and competent when they come to school prepared. Experts like Cockerton and Norris agree that parents play a leading role in helping kids cope with back-to-school fears.

NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

Here are 15 ways to calm the jitters: 1. Talk to your child about what worries her. Provide accurate information if she is misinformed.

2. Listen carefully and respond empathetically. Avoid saying, “Don’t worry. You’ll be fine!” Focus on your child’s concerns.

3. Create safe space. The tween who resists face-to-face conversation may “open up” at unexpected moments. Look for natural opportunities to listen and check in during daily activities— riding in the car, doing a chore, playing a game.

4. Read books. Cockerton says books can give kids “language to express what they are feeling.” School-challenged characters can also normalize a child’s feelings.

5. List it. Help kids refocus on the positive by listing the things they’re excited about as well as the things that scare them.

6. Talk to veteran students. If your child is starting at a new school, make contact with kids that have been there a year or two. Fears of the unknown can be calmed with accurate kidto-kid info.

7. Tour, meet, and greet. Visit the school so your child can see the layout. Make introductions to teachers and other personnel.

8. Brainstorm. Help your child build a repertoire of possible solutions to a problem. Brown’s son, Colin, was anxious at the thought of changing into his gym clothes among other boys.

She says, “We helped him figure out where he could change and feel he had some privacy.”

9. Play “what if…” What would you do if you forgot your lunch?

What would you do if couldn’t find your homework? This technique gets even the youngest kids involved in problemsolving. As Principal Norris says, “Developing the skills to solve problems independently lasts a lifetime!”

10. Role play. Act out potentially uncomfortable interactions: What can you say if you want to be friends with someone?

What can you do if someone is mean to you?

11. Resist overscheduling. Keep extracurricular activities manageable, especially during the first months of school. Kids need down time to unwind and reflect.

12. Show confidence. Let your child know you trust her ability to succeed. Remind her of the many challenges she’s faced and managed in the past.

13. Check parental fears. As Cockerton says, “Children are very good at reading their parents’ emotions and if the parent is worried about how their child will do at school, the child will interpret that as ‘something to be worried about.”

14. Make home comfortable. Kids who are worried about a parent’s physical or mental health may be reluctant to leave home.

When major life events (divorce, death, a family move) occur, maintain as consistent a routine as possible.

15. Get help. If your child’s difficulties persist, Brown says, “Networking with the school personnel is a critical piece of the puzzle…Open communication with school teachers, counselors, and others is paramount to ensuring the most successful year possible.”

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ASHLEY TALMADGE is a freelance writer and mother of two elementary-age boys. She has found that each school year brings its own set of fascinations and challenges.

NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

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39

BACK TO SCHOOL

By Heidi Smith Luedtke, PhD

The Rewards of Volunteering in Your School’s Parent-Teacher Organization

Y

ou’re busy. And the drama in some school parent-teacher organizations (PTO) rivals reality TV. But experienced educators and veteran volunteers say the rewards are worth the work. Read on to find out what’s in it for you.

Insight Relying on the school newsletter is like navigating a new part of town with a vintage map from your grandma’s glove compartment. Parent volunteers learn what’s really happening at school, and – more importantly – why.

Southern California financial planner Jarvis Reeves has been involved in the PTO for 8 years. These groups aren’t just about cookie sales and carnivals, he says. “If you truly get involved, you will have a deeper knowledge of your role as a parent, citizen and community member.”

Reeves is proud of what he learned about how schools are funded, and he recommends asking about the reasons behind school policies and practices. You might find out that fundraising events like the father-daughter dance “pay for necessities

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“Parent volunteers learn what’s really happening at school, and – more importantly – why.” that the district either cannot afford or is not allowed to pay for,” he explains. Insider info gives you a better understanding of how your school does its job and what you can do to improve it.

Advocacy “Being able to have a voice and make a difference” is extremely gratifying, says Vanessa Muskopf, former fashion industry executive turned stay-at-home mom in Brooklyn, NY. Working in the PTO is a similar dynamic to working with professional colleagues, she says, and you don’t have to be on the Board to have an impact.

Mompreneur Maureen Pollack of Stamford, Conn., encourages newcomers to start in the role of class parent. “The

responsibility is not so high and you get to know the teacher on a personal level,” she says. You may also see kids’ behavior and learning in the classroom or on field trips. This puts you in a position to speak up and be heard.

Involvement may inspire you to push for more outdoor play, arts and music enrichment, or to champion a book drive to stock the school library. You may even become politically engaged. When Reeves learned districts were being forced to cut back because they were trying to staff schools based on estimated budgets, he joined PTO peers on a trip to the state capitol. “We showed [decision makers] how these cuts affected children in our area and invited them to school functions so they could get a firsthand glimpse,” he says.

Legislators changed their votes as a result.

Personal Development The parent organization is a perfect place to use your talents and build new skills.

“Remember that you are volunteering,” Pollack says. “You don’t have to be perfect.”

And it’s okay to try something new.

NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

After 1 year as class mom, Pollack became Vice President. “It sounds like a huge job, but I would recommend it to even a beginner,” she says. The VP is right in the middle of the action, but (mostly) outside the spotlight. Surprise yourself by stretching beyond your comfort zone.

Pollack found the most fulfillment as school auction chair. “I did it solo the first time,” she says, noting that she is not a good delegator. She estimates she worked 2 hours a day, 3 or 4 days a week, for 5 months on the auction. “I got a little bit addicted to pitching local business owners – ‘You donate an item; I put it in the auction and do free advertising for you.’ – and I saw the symbiotic relationship between the school and the businesses,” Pollack says.

Raising nearly $10K gave her a feeling of accomplishment that she had missed in her stay-home mom role. Even better, the experience gave Pollack the confidence to start her own business.

Community Spirit “We live in a very fragmented world with very few direct connections to other people,” says former New Jersey principal and PTO volunteer Richard Horowitz, Ed.D. A school with engaged parents and administrators can become a social hub in the community.

Engagement means more than showing up to school assemblies and PTO meetings, Horowitz says. There has to be a lot of listening on both sides. “Try to create a discussion with the administrators so you can make sure things are rolling along in the right direction. This is your chance to take ownership of the school and model community participation for your child,” he says.

The best reward may come from your kids. “They will see a totally different side of you,” Reeves says. “There are not enough adjectives to describe the feeling when your child is proud to see you on their campus.”

Muskopf echoes this experience. “My daughter is so proud to say, ‘My mom runs pumpkin patch!’ Her face lights up when she sees me involved in school events. There is nothing better than that!”

Friendship The people you meet can become lifetime contacts and friends, Reeves says, noting his former PTO pals continue to refer business to him, even though they no longer volunteer together.

Muskopf says she has “met amazing women and made great friends that [she] probably wouldn’t have gotten to know because [their] kids are in different grades or on different schedules.” The people who are involved really want to be involved, and that makes it fun to collaborate. Social relationships reduce stress and make your life richer.

And you don’t have to be a social butterfly to benefit. Volunteering is a great way for wallflowers to blossom, says communication skills expert Christa Melnyk Hines, author of Confidently Connected: A Mom’s Guide to a Satisfying Social Life.

“Consider taking a leadership position or volunteering to coordinate the book fair,” Hines advises. “Having a defined role and purpose allows relationships to grow organically, because you’ll be working with the same group of people on a consistent basis.”

Signing up to pitch in periodically does not offer the same connection-building benefits. This year, say ‘yes’ to a specific job that suits your strengths.

6 Steps to PTO Volunteer Success 1. Know your goals. Do you want to make friends, build skills, or model your commitment to education? Be clear about why you’re choosing to participate.

2. Decide how much time to give. When you hit your limit, firmly and politely say ‘no’.

3. Be engaged. Real participation is rewarding; passive participation is not. Give more to get more.

4. Speak up. Diverse ideas enrich the community and lead to better solutions.

5. Reach out. Asking for help boosts your impact and gives others a chance to shine.

6. Be friendly and respectful.

We all see the world through different lenses.

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41

BACK TO SCHOOL

By Carol Muse Evans

W

ith the return to school comes the return of the dreaded “school lunch” dilemma. What can I put in my child’s lunch box that will be both something nutritious, and my child will actually EAT? Experts say with a little creativity and you child’s input, you can make lunch time and the lunch box an enjoyable adventure and eliminate the trading and throwing away of food sent to school.

Make Sandwiches and “Finger Foods” Easy to Handle “Children and adults alike love to eat with their hands,” says Janet Little, nutritionist for Sprouts Farmers Markets. “Think of finger food, and think small….smaller sandwiches on whole wheat bread with lean chicken or turkey slices, small bean and cheese burritos.”

Rainie Carter, registered dietician, Children’s of Alabama, suggests using

sandwich or cookie cutters to make those little sandwiches both easy to handle and appealing to eat. “Also, prepackaged lunches/lunch meats tend to have extra fat and sugar,” Carter points out. Try to go with low-fat luncheon meat for better nutrition.

And don’t feel limited to sandwiches.

If a child doesn’t like a sandwich, pieces of string cheese, low-fat meat, fruits and vegetables along with crackers or whole wheat bread make an excellent lunch. There is nothing “magical” about a sandwich.

“Hummus, tortillas and wraps can be other great ways to present lunch,” Carter adds.

Pack Color Beautiful fruits and veggies in many colors can be both nutritious and offer a lot of variety. Blueberries, grapes, tomatoes, little peppers – all these can be beautiful to look at and fun to eat.

“Kids love things on a stick,” Carter says. Consider making a kabob of fruits, vegetables or even cheese cubes, etc.

“Kids like to scoop, too,” Little adds.

“Small peppers, baby carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, cherry tomatoes, snap peas and edamame all make wonderful foods that can be dipped in hummus, and most kids love hummus.”

Little reminds moms and dads that if fruit is sent to school but not cut up, many children will not eat it and it may end up in the garbage. “Cut up fruit in bite-sized pieces, or buy pre-cut fruit to ensure your child will actually eat what you send with them,” Little says. A little lemon juice will keep fruit from turning brown.

Helpful Sites for Recipes & More: • http://kidshealth.org/parent/ nutrition_center/ • www.produceforkids.com • www.poweryourlunchbox.com

What’s in Your Child’s Lunch Box?

How to Keep Lunch Healthy and Be Sure They Eat It 42

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NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

Pack Snacks that Pack a Punch While many of the items mentioned here would also make great snacks for snack time and even after school, other items that are great for both the lunch box and snack time are dried fruits, such as raisins, cranberries, dried mangoes, dates and other interested foods, Little points out.

Sprouts and other stores offer the bulk items in large bins. Little says this can be a great place to buy these snacks and try small amounts of new items, too. “Trail mixes, peanut butter, almond butter (but be sure of your school’s policy on nuts), granola bars, yogurt, whole grains – all of these are great snacks,” Carter says.

Keep Drinks Healthy Nothing is healthier than water, says Carter.

Sending water to drink is both healthy and easy to keep safe. “Some parents are trying to get their children’s vitamins through juice, but it is better to actually eat the fruit rather than drinking because it has less sugar, and more fiber that will keep them full,” Carter says.

A great way to make water more appealing is by freezing berries and putting them into the water,” says Amanda Keefer, director of marketing communications for

NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

Produce for Kids, an in-store campaign

by Publix supermarkets. It gives the water color, flavor and keeps the water cool.

“When sending juice, be sure to choose 100 percent juice,” Little says. “With milk, go with fat free or 1 percent milk. Don’t send sodas.”

How to Pack It Food safety is very important–neglecting it can mean illness for your child. Both Carter and Little suggest using an insulated lunch box and a freezable ice pack throughout the year.

“A great way to pack a lunch is with the bento-style lunch containers,” says Keefer.

“These containers have compartments so you don’t have to deal with a lot of baggies.”

Another safe way to go with sandwiches, Little adds, is by not using mayonnaise.

“Consider a spread for a sandwich such as avocado or hummus, “she says. “Your child may like the taste better; it will offer more nutrition and be safer.” You can also purchase mayonnaise packets in bulk and include one when you pack a sandwich.

Freeze a water bottle or even yogurt as an “ice pack,” Carter adds. “This adds a cold drink to the lunch and makes the yogurt almost like a dessert – but much

more nutritious.”

Make It a Family Affair Getting your child involved in choosing lunch items means a better chance of them not only eating their lunch, but maybe even trying some new things.

“Take your child shopping with you when you can,” Little says. “Let them make some of the selections for their lunch box.”

“I know taking your child to the grocery store may not be the greatest idea,” Keefer adds, “but consider a trip just to purchase lunches…when kids have helped build something, they are more likely to be proud of it and eat it.”

“Give your child options,” Carter adds. “Dessert doesn’t have to be every day and you don’t have to send it daily in a lunchbox. You can give them choices, but maybe offer two options of fruit from which to choose, etc.”

If you child is a fan of prepackaged “lunches” with ham and cheese, for example, you can even create and build your own, Keefer adds, giving them more nutritious ingredients, and those that they like.

CAROL MUSE EVANS is publisher/editor of Birmingham Parent.

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ONE TANK TRIPS

By Anna Snyder

T

he adventures continue! In August, we begin to focus on the “back-to-school” mode: supply lists, organization, sports, activities, and getting up early. However, this can be a great month to take one last day trip or weekend adventure to connect as a family before the busy-ness of the school schedule ensues. Why not plan a one-tank adventure? Our family has a few more suggestions for you this month. Part two of our One Tank Adventure series is focused on the Florida State Park system.

What’s to Love?

My husband, Jim, and I really love Florida State Parks. During our honeymoon, we decided to purchase a Florida State Park passport and attempt to visit each of the approximately 160 parks over the course of our marriage. Each state park has a unique stamp, and as we visit parks, we

take notes in the passport and collect the various stamps.

Why do we love Florida State Parks so much? They feature Florida’s many unique and varied ecosystems and climates.

• We get to see Florida wildlife upclose—wood storks, white-crowned pigeons, manatees, sharks, back-water fish, reef fish, wild orchids, roseate spoonbills.

The list goes on and on and on.

• We can plan weekend adventures structured around various groups of parks (for example, Cedar Key, Amelia Island, Islamorada, St. Augustine, etc.).

• The passport represents a book filled with relatively low-cost vacations during which we get to see some pretty cool stuff.

Want to take the state parks challenge? Simply visit one of the Southwest Florida’s state parks to purchase your own passport, and start having adventures! We also recommend Florida State Parks by

Michal Strutin.

Jonathan Dickinson State Park We loved this park so much that we are planning to return with my mother-inlaw and father-in-law for a weekend in October. Located in Hobe Sound on the Loxahatchee River about two-and-a-half hours northeast of Naples, Jonathan Dickinson State Park offers visitors a look into several unique wildlife environments: sand pine scrub, pine flatwoods, mangroves, and river swamps. Miles of off-road mountain biking and hiking trails, along with paved hiking trails, take visitors through some of these ecosystems.

We hiked to the top of Hobe Mountain, one of the highest points around, where we got a view of the ocean and the surrounding area. We also took a boat tour on the Loxahatchee Queen II. It included a two-hour tour of the river, as well as a

More One Tank Adventures

Bill Baggs Cape Park Lighthouse 44

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NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2016

ranger-led tour (available only by taking the boat tour) at the restored home site of Trapper Nelson. Trapper Nelson was famous for living off the land and creating and maintaining a zoo attraction for local tourists. His death in the late 1960s remains a mystery. In touring the home site and zoo he built himself, I felt as though I was stepping back in time. Talk about wild Florida! We highly recommend taking this tour with your family! Contact the park concession office at (561) 746-1466 for tour times and pricing. The park is open from 9:30am-4:30pm Thursday through Monday.

The park contains many campsites in a couple different areas within the park, along with basic rental cabins available that can house up to four or six people.

There is so much to do at this park that it would be a great family getaway for one or two nights. A non-profit organization, Friends of Jonathan Dickinson State Park, plans regular events, classes, guided tours and races for visitors. Check out www. friendsofjdsp.org for details.

Bill Baggs Cape Park We arrived at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park by 8:30am on a Sunday morning.

Located on Key Biscayne in Miami, it is a beautiful recreational area that fills up quickly. If you decide to go, arrive as early as possible to secure parking and/or a picnic area if you plan to stay for the day. Fishing areas, biking and running opportunities, and beautiful beaches on one end of Key Biscayne attract lots of visitors from the surrounding area.

Home to the oldest standing structure in Miami Dade County, Bill Baggs offers visitors the opportunity to tour the historic

lighthouse built in 1825 and reconstructed in 1846. Tours of the lighthouse and lighthouse keeper’s cottage are offered twice a day, Thursdays through Mondays. The lighthouse is beautiful, and the views of Biscayne Bay are breathtaking. Visitors can also see what is left of historic Stiltsville in Biscayne Bay one mile south of Cape Florida, a group of stilt homes built in the 1930s.

Some of the best fishing in the area is on the seawall at the park. We enjoyed watching anglers as we walked along the path adjacent to the wall. We followed a group of manatees as they traveled along the wall, Manatees are always a favorite with our daughter!

The park offers two reasonably priced casual restaurants right on the water. The restaurants get really busy as the day goes on, so be sure to arrive early. The park provides bicycle rentals and beach chair/ umbrellas rentals.

The Barnacle The Barnacle State Historic Site is in the heart of Coconut Grove, a vibrant and beautiful Miami neighborhood. It is located on Biscayne Bay and offers beautiful views of the bay itself. This park takes a little over an hour to tour and see, but visitors can stay and eat picnic lunches or explore the surrounding shopping and dining in Coconut Grove. Tours of the historic house are offered to 10 people at a time on a first-come, first-served basis at 10:00am, 11:30am, 1:00pm and 2:30pm six days a week (closed on Tuesdays).

The Barnacle was built in 1891 by boat designer Ralph Middleton Munroe and is the oldest standing house still in its original location in Miami-Dade County. Munroe

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continually maintained and repaired his boats and worked on innovative yacht design, as small-craft sailboats were the primary means of transportation during the time period in which he settled in Coconut Grove. Many of the original furnishings and features remain in The Barnacle for visitors to admire.

We enjoyed the historic site, but would recommend pairing your tour of the house and visit to the park with other activities in and around Coconut Grove. There are lots of fun restaurants and shopping available in Coconut Grove. There are also opportunities for boat tours of Biscayne Bay near the area as well, which would be fun depending upon the ages of your kids.

Enjoy your last weeks of summer vacation! Adventure is always close by when you’re a Floridian. We hope you love these one-tank adventures as much as we did.

Curious about some other options for one-tank adventures? Here are some other suggestions from Southwest Florida parents: “We love snorkeling and the glass bottom boat tours at John Pennekamp State Park in Key Largo.” –Naples dad of two.

“Go to the Yoder Amish restaurant and their market next door. (Sarasota)” –Naples mom of one.

“Arcadia is great for antiquing, fossil hunting and blueberry picking in April and May.” –Naples mom of three.

“Lake Placid is a great destination. The town has over 40 huge murals painted all over. It’s a great place to wander and explore and take pictures.” –Naples mom of one.

“We love biking through Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island.” –Naples dad of one. the things he sees are not just remembered, they form a part of his soul.

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