Feb. 2015 Neapolitan Family Magazine

February 2015 neafamily.com

COMPLIMENTARY

Our annual

PRESCHOOL GUIDE

Vocational Education in Collier County Outward Bound for Teens Exchange Programs for Collier Students

We’re all about

EVENTS & IDEAS for Celebrating Valentine’s Day with your family NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

February 2015.indd 1

Education this month! neafamily.com

1

1/24/15 9:07 AM

WAIT TIME

Wait from home, not the ER, Urgent Care Center or Doctor’s Office.*

• Go to NCHmd.org and click on the InQuicker banner • Select a projected treatment time • Complete a simple online form • Arrive at our facility at your projected treatment time to be seen by a health care professional * For patients with non-life or limb-threatening conditions.

2

neafamily.com

February 2015.indd 2

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

1/23/15 6:21 PM

It’s never too early to learn

THE VALUE OF TEAMWORK! GREATER NAPLES YMCA SIGN-UP TODAY! Most group sports start at

3 YEARS OLD!

T-BALL BASKETBALL SOCCER TENNIS VOLLEYBALL SWIMMING WRESTLING KARATE

TO REGISTER CALL 239.963.3765 • www.GreaterNaplesYMCA.org GREATER NAPLES YMCA | 5450 YMCA ROAD | NAPLES, FL 34109 NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

February 2015.indd 3

neafamily.com

3

1/23/15 6:21 PM

FEBRUARY 2015 TABLE OF CONTENTS

in every issue . . .

04

ON THE COVER

06

ONLINE THIS MONTH AT NEAFAMILY.COM

07

FROM THE PUBLISHER

08

REEL LIFE WITH JANE Family Movie Reviews

12

COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS NEWS

21

CITY CONNECTION City of Naples Parks Department News and Events

22

COMMUNITY EVENTS

24

CENTERFOLD CALENDAR

26

FEBRUARY EVENTS Community events for your family.

on the cover…

features…

10 14 Fun Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day With Your Kids

by Alyssa Chirco

20 Every Classroom Needs an Opa. Retired volunteers are making a big difference at Parkside Elementary School. by Rainer Olbrich

education features…

14 Ready To Work: Vocational Education in Collier County

by Stacy Nicolau Micah Chandler is 4 years old and has two older brothers and a baby sister arriving in March.

Micah’s brother Logan is 15 and Maddox is 7.

Mom Stephanie is a RN at NCH and Dad Scott is a private pilot for Flight Options. The boys are active in hockey at Germain Arena, tennis, biking, swimming, soccer, and spend many days at the beach.

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

16 Outward Bound for Teens: Building Character Through Adventure

by Kerrie McLoughlin 18 A Worthwhile Exchange: Student exchange programs offer Collier County students the opportunity to experience new cultures and build lasting relationships.

by Stacy Nicolau

MATH TUTORING SOLUTIONS from X-Factor LLC

One-on-One In-Home Sessions Small Group Lessons Live Webcast and Skype Options Ask me about Peer Partner Instruction Robby Baker xfactorllc1@gmail.com 239-450-0095 Tinyurl.com/xfactortutoring 4

neafamily.com

February 2015.indd 4

40 2015-16

PRESCHOOL GUIDE The BEST preschools for Naples’ parents!

PARENT WORKSHOP Friday, Feb. 6 5:00-6:00 P.M. Presented by Collier Child Care Resources

Challenging Behaviors in young children:

WHAT TO DO WHEN NOTHING ELSE WORKS. $25 at the door

7505 Grand Lely Drive, Bldg. K, Naples, 34113

For more information please contact Mabel at MabelR@collierchildcare.org

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

1/24/15 10:48 AM

A’llawna is an extremely intelligent 9-year-old who battles with oppositional defiant disorder and ADD. When she was referred to the new Children’s Community Action Team she was having violent outbursts, getting suspended and was kicked out of her after school program. Explosive arguments with her mother resulted in routine Crisis Unit admissions.

Through the program’s familycentered intensive mentoring and treatment services, they received the comprehensive support necessary to overcome the loss of her beloved father and learned behavior modification and anger management skills. The team also got her into more challenging gifted classes.

Today her relationship with her mother has never been stronger and they are now savoring all the joys that childhood brings. f o r M e n t a l We l l n e s s

Her Mind is Our Concern.

Mental health is a community issue.

Fortunately, there’s a community solution.

A’llawna is among one in four in Collier County who suffer from a mental illness. One in ten of us will experience some form of substance abuse. When a family member, friend or coworker battles a mental health or substance abuse problem, we suffer with them.

Thankfully, David Lawrence Center is here for our community.

f o r m e n t a l We l l n e s s

A not-for-profit organization founded and still governed by community leaders, the David Lawrence Center is the behavioral health component of our community’s healthcare network.

A true local resource, it relies on donations, fees and grants to invest in the health, safety and wellbeing of our community.

When you or someone you love needs help, call on the highly compassionate, committed and competent professionals of the David Lawrence Center to inspire you to move beyond the crisis towards life-changing wellness.

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

February 2015.indd 5

F o R m e N Ta l W e l l N e s s

DavidLawrenceCenter.org Naples

239-455-8500

immokalee

239-657-4434

neafamily.com

5

1/23/15 6:21 PM

online FEBRUARY

at

NEAFAMILY.COM

Web Only Contests Browse Our E-Magazine

Browse Our E-Magazine Read complete issues of Neapolitan Family on your desktop computer or mobile device. To access: Neafamily.com → Digital → Click on issue you’d like to read.

Take Us Wherever You Go Neapolitan Family features responsive web design, so our web pages adjust to whatever portable device you use. Access our resources, directories, publications, calendar and news updates 24/7.

E-Newsletter Neapolitan Family sends out an enewsletter every Thursday filled with fun events for the upcoming week. To sign up: Neafamily.com → click on the newsletter graphic box at the top of each page.

Content family Valentine’sWeb Day Only celebra-

Web Only Content

Takewith Us Wherever You Go We update our web site daily with new We update our web site daily new tion.

Neapolitan Family articles, news and local information. Y articles, news and local information.

You’ll features responsive web design, so our web pages• adjust to Only Contest also find an archive of print articles as also find an archive of print articles as well Web portable use. Access web-only as web-only articles withwhatever everything from device you Check the contestaspage for articles with everything fr ourprojects. resources, directories, publications, travel information to crafts projects. travel information to crafts information on our February calendar and news updates 24/7.

“web-only” contest.

Updated Calendar E-Newsletter updateusthe We update the calendar frequently adding Are you on Pinterest?We Follow forcalendar frequently add Family sendsawesome out an e- pins on topics new of events that new events that come in Neapolitan after the print interestcome to in after the prin newsletter filled with fun publication deadlines.

Check often to publication deadlines. Check often every to seeThursday you including decorating, holidays, events the upcoming crafts, week. To sign up: what is going on in Naples and surrou what is going on in Naples and for surrounding parenting, travel and more.

Neafamily.com the newsletter areas.

There is NOT a better calendar areas. There is NOT a better calendar of→ click onWe’re at www.pinterest.com/ page. events available locally. events available locally. graphic box at the top of each neapolitanfam/ Updated Calendar

The Music Studio of Naples

Twinkle Twinkle Little Store Baby Gear Rentals & Resale We buy & sell your gently used kids stuff

We pay CA$H

• Your resource for private music instruction–all instruments and styles.

• Specializing in voice and piano.

• Mommy & Me early music instruction (ages 4 and up)

 Clothing (newborn to kid 16 & maternity)  Toys, Books, Dvds, Accessories  Baby Gear & Furniture  Cloth diapering, new products

We Moved To Bigger Store!

4172 Tamiami Trl N, Naples

(239) 537-6209

239-262-5904

musicstudionaples.com 255 Airport Road South, Naples 34014

TwinkleTwinkleLittleStoreOfNaples.com 6

neafamily.com

February 2015.indd 6

Web Only Contests

This month’s Read issues of Neapolitan Fam- web-only We offerarticles: great contests for our web re We offer great contests for ourcomplete web readers. ily on contest: your desktop computer or mobile To find out about our current contest To find out about our current • Vanetine’s device. To access: Neafamily.com → Digital Day Fun Neafamily.com → Contests.

Neafamily.com → Contests. → Click on issue you’d like to read.

Crafts, food and fun for your

6

neafamily.com

LITTLE P 868 9

• Top R • Presch • Summ

www.Littl

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

1/23/15 6:21 PM

from the publisher…

the parenting magazine devoted to collier county

THIS MONTH: Education!

P.O. Box 110656 Naples, FL 34108 (239) 514-0338 Phone (239) 514-0339 Fax info@neafamily.com Publisher Andrea Breznay andrea@neafamily.com Assistant Publisher Stacy Nicolau snicolau@neafamily.com Copy Editor Leigh Ann Newmann Cover Photographer Peggy Farren Contributing Graphic Designer Janine Vitanza 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.

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

Neapolitan Family is ©2015 by Neapolitan Publishing Co., LLC. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

Putting together our annual education issue is always a revelation to me. As we’re preparing the editorial for the issue, I find out about so many interesting programs and some of the exciting things going on in Naples for our children.

We really are lucky to have an abundance of excellent preschools as well as an excellent public school system.

Stacy Nicolau is my go-to resource for a lot of that information. With 3 children in Collier County Public Schools, Stacy is right in the middle of all of the action. She’s written two excellent articles in this issue: “Ready to Work: Vocational Training in Collier County” and “A Worthwhile Exchange.” There are a myriad of vocational options for Collier high school students and–one of the revelations–the public can get hair care services, facials, computer repair and more at the vocational school. A $15 facial? I’m there!

An article that really touched my heart is “Every Classroom Needs An Opa” on page 20. The author Rainer Olbrich has been pretty persistent in supplying me with information about the volunteer program at Parkside. I promised him we’d find a place for an article about the innovative program and this issue is the perfect place for it. Parkside is desperately in need of adult volunteers–at this point the entire school has just 20 (in comparison, Seagate has 400). After stopping by Mrs. Hopkins’ 2nd grade classroom and meeting the children, I knew I could find 3 hours in my week to volunteer my time to assist in one of the classes. Please consider doing the same. Even if you have a child in another school, Parkside needs YOU! We haven’t forgotten Valentine’s Day. You’ll find 14 really fun ways to celebrate with your family on page 10. Plus, if you check our website at neafamily.com, you’ll find a ton of other articles and projects that will make Valentine’s Day extra special this year.

Love to you and yours this February!

Andrea Breznay Publisher

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

February 2015.indd 7

neafamily.com

7

1/23/15 7:30 PM

REEL LIFE WITH JANE

By Jane Louise Boursaw

Family Movie & DVD Reviews N

ew on the big screen for kids and teens in March is a giant whale causing havoc, a little alien looking for a home, a classic princess with a glass slipper and lots more. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s new in theaters and home entertainment this month.

Note that release dates are subject to change.

THE SECOND BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL PG for some language and suggestive comments • In Theaters 3/6 • Ok for Kids 9+ Reel Preview: 4.5 of 5 Reels “The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel” is the expansionist dream of Sonny (Dev Patel), and it’s making more claims on his time than he has available, considering his imminent marriage to the love of his life, Sunaina (Tena Desae). Sonny has his eye on a promising property now that his first venture, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel for the Elderly and Beautiful, has only a single remaining vacancy – posing a rooming predicament for fresh arrivals Guy (Richard Gere) and Lavinia (Tamsin Greig).

Evelyn and Douglas (Judi Dench and Bill Nighy) have now joined the Jaipur workforce, while Norman and Carol (Ronald Pickup and Diana Hardcastle) are negotiating the tricky waters of an exclusive relationship and Madge (Celia Imrie) juggles two eligible and very wealthy suitors. Perhaps the only one who may know the answers is newly installed co-manager of the hotel, Muriel (Maggie Smith), the keeper of everyone’s secrets.

IN THE HEART OF THE SEA PG-13 for intense sequences of action, brief startling violence, and thematic material In Theaters 3/13 • Ok for Kids 13+ Reel Preview: 4.5 of 5 Reels It’s the winter of 1820, and the New England whaling ship Essex is assaulted by something no one could believe: a whale of mammoth size and will, with an almost human sense of vengeance. The real-life maritime disaster would inspire Melville’s book “Moby-Dick.”

But that’s not the whole story.

“In the Heart of the Sea” reveals the encounter’s harrowing aftermath, as the ship’s surviving crew is pushed to their limits. Braving storms, starvation, panic and despair, the men will call into question their deepest beliefs, from the value of their lives to the morality of their trade, as their captain

8

neafamily.com

February 2015.indd 8

searches for direction on the open sea and his first mate seeks to bring the great whale down.

The cast includes Chris Hemsworth as first mate Owen Chase; Benjamin Walker as the inexperienced Captain George Pollard; Cillian Murphy as second mate Matthew Joy; and Ben Whishaw as novelist Herman Melville, whose inquiries into the event 30 years later helped bring the story to light.

CINDERELLA PG for mild thematic elements In Theaters 3/13 • Ok for Kids 7+ Reel Preview: 4.5 of 5 Reels We all know the story: When young Ella (Lily James) tragically loses her mother, her merchant father remarries and Ella welcomes new stepmother Lady Tremaine (Cate Blanchett) and her daughters Anastasia (Holliday Grainger) and Drisella (Sophie McShera) into the family home. When Ella’s father unexpectedly passes away, she finds herself at the mercy of a jealous and cruel new family as she’s relegated to nothing more than a servant girl covered in ashes.

But Ella is determined to honor her mother’s dying words, to “have courage and be kind.” When she meets a dashing stranger in the woods (Richard Madden), she’s unaware that he’s a prince, but her life begin to change when the Palace sends an open invitation for all maidens to attend a ball.

A glass slipper, a few mice, a pumpkin and a fairy godmother (Helena Bonham Carter) all play into the rest of the story.

THE DIVERGENT SERIES: INSURGENT Not yet rated; likely PG-13 In Theaters 3/20 • Ok for Kids 13+ Reel Preview: 4 of 5 Reels This second movie in the “Divergent” series raises the stakes for Tris (Shailene Woodley) as she searches for allies and answers in the ruins of a futuristic Chicago. Tris and Four (Theo James) are now fugitives on the run, hunted by Jeanine (Kate Winslet), the leader of the power-hungry Erudite elite.

Racing against time, they must find out what Tris’s family sacrificed their lives to protect, and why the Erudite leaders will do anything to stop them. Tris and Four face one impossible challenge after another as they unlock the truth about the past and ultimately the future of their world. Miles Teller, Jai Courtney, Ansel Elgort, Naomi Watts and Zoe Kravitz also star in this movie directed

by Robert Schwentke and based on the book

by Veronica Roth.

TRACERS PG-13 for some intense violence, perilous action, sexual content and language In Theaters 3/20 • Ok for Kids 14+ Reel Preview: 3 of 5 Reels After he crashes his bike into a beautiful stranger named Nikki (Marie Avgeropoulos), Cam (Taylor Lautner) is introduced to her crew -- a team that uses parkour to pull off heists. Hoping to alleviate his deepening debt to a violent crime gang, Cam quickly joins the group.

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

1/23/15 6:22 PM

As the stakes get higher with more dangerous side ventures, the payouts get bigger and Cam must use every ounce of his skill to stay alive as the crew’s heists grow more daring with each job. Directed by Daniel Benmayor, this movie also stars Rafi Gavron, Adam Rayner and Sam Medina.

HOME PG for mild action and some rude humor In Theaters 3/27 • Ok for Kids 7+ Reel Preview: 4 of 5 Reels When Earth is taken over by the overly-confident Boov, an alien race in search of a new place to call home, all humans are promptly relocated as the Boov get busy reorganizing the planet. But when one resourceful girl named Tip (Rihanna, who also contributes a song) manages to avoid capture, she finds herself the accidental accomplice of a banished Boov named Oh (Jim Parsons).

The two fugitives realize there’s a lot more at stake than intergalactic relations as they embark on the road trip of a lifetime.

Based on the novel “The True Meaning of Smekday” by Adam Rex, this movie is directed by Tim Johnson and also features the voices of Jennifer Lopez, Matt Jones and Steve Martin.

NEW ON DVD/BLU-RAY: LEAP FROG LETTER FACTORY ADVENTURES: AMAZING WORD EXPLORERS Not Rated • On DVD 3/10 • Ok for Kids 4+ Reel Review: 4.5 of 5 Reels This all-new Leapfrog movie teaches kids rhyming, storytelling and word building. The Letter Machine Rescue Team helps support children’s language and vocabulary skills, which is awesome since research has shown that vocabulary development, along with a grasp of grammar and language structure

Rated PG • On DVD 3/10 • Ok for Kids 5+ Reel Review: 4 of 5 Reels 0 The mischievous Minions return in three new mini-movies. In “Puppy,” when Kyle is unwilling to behave like a real dog, the Minions go looking for one who will. “Panic In The Mailroom” is what happens when a suspicious package arrives and the Minions are totally unprepared. And in “Training Wheels,” Agnes has some trouble with her bike and the Minions come to her aid -- armed with a few helpful gadgets.

smoking images • On DVD, Blu-ray, Digital 3/17 • Ok for Kids 6+ Reel Review: 5 of 5 Reels From Tomm Moore, writer and director of the Oscar-nominated “The Secret of Kells,” comes an enchanting fable about loss, magic and the love of family. When Saoirse and Ben’s mother mysteriously disappears into the ocean, the two children go on an epic journey to find out the truth about her. In the process, they discover mystical secrets about both their mother and Saoirse herself.

Featuring the voices of Brendan Gleeson and Fionnula Flanagan, this movie features a beautiful story and gorgeous animation.

Bonus features include audio commentary with the director, animation tests and “The Art of Song of the Sea” featurette.

DIVE OLLY DIVE AND THE PIRATE TREASURE

CHUGGINGTON: FIRE PATROL RESCUE

Not Rated • On DVD, Amazon Instant Video 3/17 • Ok for Kids 3+ Reel Review: 4 of 5 Reels Join submarine-in-training Olly and his undersea friends as they discover fun, laughter and amazing pirate surprises in this full-length family movie featuring the voice talents of Mario Lopez and Courtney Lopez. When Olly and his best friend Beth find a magical compass and a map on an old shipwreck, they set sail to find a legendary “Pie-Rat” treasure that reflects the beautiful rainbows in the sky. With danger lurking above and below, they’re in the race of their lives to get to the glittery goods before a sneaky shark and his seahorse cronies find it.

Make waves with a true hero as he discovers that friends, family and teamwork are the real treasures in this imaginative journey.

Not Rated • On DVD 3/31 • Ok for Kids 3+ Reel Review: 4 of 5 Reels In this latest collection of Chuggington adventures, Wilson sets out on fire patrol duty with his new friend Asher and learns to use a fire hose in a rescue. Chug Patrol and Speed Fleet have a friendly contest; Hodge finds himself in a high-rise jam; and all the Chuggers practice emergency drills at the roundhouse. In these six exciting episodes plus New Chugger Spotlights, a Bonus Badge Quest Episode, and coloring sheets, Wilson, Asher, Brewster and the gang discover the importance of community service and working together. Available with new Asher TOMY train.

early on, is linked to school readiness, as well as reading and math achievement.

DESPICABLE ME 2: 3 MINI-MOVIE COLLECTION

SONG OF THE SEA PG for some mild peril, language and pipe

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

Twinkle Twinkle Little Store Baby Gear Rentals & Resale We buy & sell your gently used kids stuff

We pay CA$H

 Clothing (newborn to kid 16 & maternity)  Toys, Books, Dvds, Accessories  Baby Gear & Furniture  Cloth diapering, new products

We Moved To Bigger Store!

4172 Tamiami Trl N, Naples

239-262-5904

TwinkleTwinkleLittleStoreOfNaples.com NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

February 2015.indd 9

neafamily.com

9

1/23/15 6:22 PM

HAPPY, HEALTHY FAMILY

By Alyssa Chirco

14 Fun Ways to Celebrate

Valentine’s Day

with your kids V

alentine’s Day may be about passion and romance for some, but for parents, weekend getaways and romantic dinners for two are rarely on the menu. No matter how you celebrate with your significant other, be sure to embrace the fun that you can have with your kids on this special day too.

Ready to create some family-friendly Valentine’s Day traditions that include even the littlest loves of your life? This list of fun ways to celebrate with kids of all ages will help.

1.

Get a sweet start. Show your special sweethearts how much you care by preparing a Valentine’s Day breakfast. Use food coloring or berry juice to dye pancake or waffle batter pink, and then top your fluffy creations with sliced strawberries and whipped cream. Bonus points if you use cookie cutters to make the waffles or pancakes in the shape of hearts.

be easy to make. Cut hearts out of colored construction paper and let your kids decorate them with stickers, glitter and candy conversation hearts. Short on time? Use this method of decorating to turn store bought cards into handmade Valentine’s too.

one step further by sitting down at the table with your kids and writing letters of appreciation to the important people in your lives. Grandparents, teachers and long-distance relatives will all enjoy hearing how much your family cares.

4.

6.

Spread the love. In addition to giving your Valentine’s to friends and family, spread the love a little further by delivering some of the cards to a local nursing home or children’s hospital. Take your children with you so they can see how much the simple gesture means to others.

Get heart healthy. February is American Heart Month, so use Valentine’s Day as an opportunity to educate your kids about the importance of exercising for a

5.

Write letters of appreciation. Take the traditional Valentine’s Day card

2.

Wear your heart on your sleeve (or your shirt). If you have a little girl who loves pink, this is the day for her to shine.

Help her shop for a special Valentine’s Day outfit, and accessorize with heart-themed jewelry and hair bows. Not into cutesy and pink? Buy plain t-shirts and bottles of fabric paint at the local craft store and let your kids design their own Valentine’s Day fashions.

3.

Make handmade Valentine’s. Handmade Valentine’s may sound complicated, but with the right materials, they can

The “Happy, Healthy Family” column is spondored each month by Monarch Therapy.

For more information on Monarch Therapy, call (239) 325-9210 or check www.MonarchTherapy.com 10

neafamily.com

February 2015.indd 10

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

1/23/15 6:22 PM

healthy heart. Plan an annual family walk or bike ride, or crank up the love songs and get your hearts pumping with a Valentine’s Day dance party.

7.

Decorate your home. You decorate for Halloween and Christmas, so why not Valentine’s Day? Make the holiday fun and festive by purchasing inexpensive decorations like streamers, balloons, silk roses and heart-themed tablecloths at the dollar store.

Invite your kids to help you deck the halls of your home with Valentine’s Day cheer.

8.

Plan a kid-friendly party. Now that the house is decorated, invite a few your children’s friends (or just their stuffed animals) to a party. Find free printable templates for games like Valentine’s Bingo or Tic-Tac-Toe online. Decorate cupcakes or heart-shaped cookies with pink frosting and sprinkles. Make guests feel special by serving a sparkling pink punch made of equal parts pink lemonade and strawberryflavored sparkling water in plastic champagne flutes.

9.

Make chocolate-covered strawberries. Even kids appreciate this

classic Valentine’s Day treat. And if you buy a container of microwavable dipping chocolate, it’s one they can (almost) make without help. Dip strawberries into the melted chocolate, and then set them on wax paper to harden. Wrap up these sweet treats to give as a gift, or – even better – enjoy them yourselves.

Week (February 9 -15)? Spend February 14th performing kind gestures in your community. Smile at everyone you see. Deliver flowers to an elderly neighbor. Challenge your kids to see who can commit the most acts of kindness throughout the course of the day.

13.

Go on a scavenger hunt. Create a Valentine’s Day Scavenger Hunt for the whole family by writing clues on paper hearts and hiding them all over your home. Each clue should lead participants to the next and, finally, to a special gift or message at the end.

Enjoy a Family Date Night. Skip the reservation for two and take the whole family out for a night on the town instead. Get dressed up in nice clothes and dine at a restaurant you all enjoy. End the evening with a horse-drawn carriage ride or a trip to an outdoor ice rink to skate together under the stars.

11.

14.

10.

Encourage a love of reading. A book like Sam McBratney’s Guess How Much I Love You is perfect to read aloud on Valentine’s Day. Or introduce your family to Robert Sabuda’s Saint Valentine, which tells the story of the ancient Roman priest and physician for whom Valentine’s Day is thought to be named.

12.

Commit Random Acts of Kindness.

Did you know that Valentine’s Day falls during Random Acts of Kindness

Say “I love you.” How often do you say those three simple words out loud? No matter how else you choose to celebrate Valentine’s Day, there’s no better way (or day) to let your children know how just how special you think they are.

ALYSSA CHIRCO writes about parenting and family life for publications throughout North America. Making chocolate-covered strawberries with her kids is her favorite way to celebrate Valentine’s Day.

DANCE changes everything lifelong lessons and friendships healthy minds and bodies self-confidence and happiness

Summer Schedule coming soon!

5400 Jaeger Rd Naples, FL 34109 bdaNaples.com

239.566.3535 NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

February 2015.indd 11

neafamily.com

11

1/23/15 6:22 PM

COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

By Katie Tanner

Collier County Public Schools unveils new logo, updated website and mobile application

Today’s Learners.

Tomorrow’s Leaders.

I

t’s an endeavor three years in the making. Collier County Public Schools (CCPS) is officially debuting a new look, complete with a new logo, brand, website, and an app. The process all started with a simple goal: to better showcase CCPS as a leader in education. As Superintendent Dr. Kamela Patton has said, she

wants CCPS to be known as an incubator for future leaders and a frontrunner in technology. The new brand aims to do just that.

The first thing you will notice about the new logo is the name change. The previous logo listed the name as “The District School Board of Collier County.”

However, that is not how people refer to us. Through our strategic planning process, we learned that the district is commonly referred to as Collier County Public Schools or CCPS. Based on that, local marketing experts and professors donated their time to work with us to start the branding process. CCPS staff then created three new logo options as well as three options for an updated tag line. We put those options to the test back in the fall through a survey distributed across Collier County. With more than 4,000 responses, the new logo and

tag line “Today’s Learners. Tomorrow’s Leaders.” each won the vote with 44 percent. Those who picked the new logo felt it did the best job visually capturing the feel of our school district. Those who voted for the new tag line agreed that it embraced the incredible teaching and learning happening in our classrooms each day.

You will also notice a fresh new look the next time you visit the homepage of our website: www.collierschools.com. Since our website consists of hundreds of pages, CCPS staff will continue to work on shifting the rest of the website to the new look in the coming months. For this facelift, we once again surveyed the community, mostly parents, to see what upgrades you would like to see. Around 44 percent of respondents told us you use our website daily, while about 38 percent use it weekly. The biggest complaint we heard about the old website was that it was difficult to navigate.

Well, we have cut the clutter and designed a cleaner look. The website is also responsive, meaning it will be easy to navigate no matter where you are viewing it – computer, tablet, or mobile device.

A survey done by CCPS found that 97 percent of the respondents use mobile applications.

To meet that need, there’s now a CCPS app. You will be able to access everything from calendars and lunch menus to the latest district news with ease. The app allows you to easily toggle between information for the entire district and the individual schools you select. You can even sign up for notifications to make sure you do not miss out on the latest alerts from your child’s school. The app will also allow you to connect with us on social media outlets like Facebook and Twitter. The new CCPS app is now available for download in both the Apple App and Google Play stores.

12

neafamily.com

February 2015.indd 12

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

1/23/15 6:22 PM

C E N T E R S F O R T H E A R T S B O N I TA S P R I N G S

AUDITIONS

February 10 & 11, 2015 (5:00 - 7:00pm)

Open to actors ages 10 and up. Auditions will include singing and acting. Come prepared to sing 16 bars of a song and dance with a group, but most of all come to have fun! Rehearsals start February 18, 2015 thru May 6 and are Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays; 5-7pm.

Performances May 8-10. For appt. call 239-495-8989

ENTERTAINMENT

C L A S S E S Art

•

Th e a t e r

•

Dance

•

Music

February 20 & 21 CFABS Teen Players Present

Improviganzapalooza 2015

Family Comedy Saturday, February 7, 3pm Tickets 239-495-8989 $10 Adults / $6 Youth Curtain Up Sponsor

Media Sponsors

Jr.

Season Sponsor

Tickets 239-495-8989 $15 Adults / $6 Youth

10150 BONITA BEACH RD, BONITA SPRINGS, FL

239-495-8989 ARTCENTERBONITA.ORG NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

February 2015.indd 13

neafamily.com

13

1/23/15 6:22 PM

EDUCATION

By Stacy Nicolau

Ready to Work Vocational Education in Collier County Both Collier County and Lee County public high schools provide options for vocational training, including career academies at various campuses to create specialized learning communities within a school. © Liddle Kidz Foundation

14

neafamily.com

February 2015.indd 14

Many high school students assume they will continue along an academic path following graduation. But with the cost of a college degree skyrocketing in recent years, more and more kids and parents are questioning whether college is always the best choice.

The numbers don’t lie Some 50% of new college graduates under the age of 25 are either jobless or underemployed (working in a field that only requires a high school diploma or less), according to an analysis of a 2011 Current Population

Survey data by Northeastern University researchers. A college degree, though still recommended, no longer guarantees a better paying job, says Harvard economist Richard Freeman. With the collective college debt approaching one trillion dollars, this affects our economy as well and increases the crowded application pool for unskilled jobs.

What remains undisputed, however, is the need for all students to receive advanced training in order to follow a career path. Both Collier County and Lee County NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

1/23/15 6:22 PM

public high schools provide options for vocational training, including career academies at various campuses to create specialized learning communities within a school.

Partnerships with area businesses offer opportunities for field trips and internships.

Another solution that usually results in a good paying job at graduation is attending a vocational college or high school.

The Lorenzo Walker Technical High School (LWTHS) in Naples is part of the Lorenzo Walker Institute of Technology (LWIT). It has a dual tracked curriculum that includes both college prep and the technical training to obtain minimum required certifications in several trade and health fields. This type of curriculum opens up many more career possibilities and nearly guarantees students employment if they choose immediately to enter their chosen field after high school or simultaneously attend college and have a paying job.

The Immokalee Technical Center Dual Enrollment Center (iTECH) offers a similar curriculum for students in grades 10, 11 and 12 as well as adults. Both LWTHS and iTECH have professional business partners that mentor students and provide job opportunities.

Training for them, savings for us Not only do these types of schools minimize college debt, they also benefit the community by providing low cost computer repair, automotive, cosmetic and food services. For example, a facial at the LWIT salon costs as little $15 and a shampoo/blow dry costs only $8. All of us from time to time could use a good computer geek and LWIT is full of them. For only $5 and the cost of parts, you can drop off your computer at the school where they can perform repairs, upgrades, downloads and remove malware.

LWIT also provides a low cost catering option. Gulf View Middle School PTO President Wendy Gurevitch says that the school has enjoyed using the LWIT catering department to provide desserts for teacher appreciation day and other events including student dances. The school will hold its eighth grade dance this spring at the LWIT site’s banquet hall with a fully catered meal.

The “storefronts” at iTECH include a cyber café and full restaurant, a practicing medical office, an automotive service center, a childcare center, and a cosmetology

center, so the Immokalee community can enjoy low cost services as well.

Both schools are part of the Collier County Public School District and require an application and proof of residency to attend. A standardized placement test may be required based on transcripts.

STACY NICOLAU is the assistant publisher of Neapolitan Family. A graduate of the University of North Carolina, Stacy is the mother of 3 children attending Collier County public schools.

Collier and Lee County Public Schools Technical High Schools Immokalee Technical Center Dual Enrollment Program (iTECH) http://itech.edu/ Professional Certifications • Accounting Operations • Drafting • Automotive Service Technology • Building Construction Technology • Commercial Foods and Culinary Arts • Computer Systems Information Technology • Cosmetology Salon Services, focus on Nail Specialty • Early Childhood Education • Multimedia Design – Computer Programs with a focus on the following: – Graphic Design o Web Design – Video – Print Design Lorenzo Walker Technical High School (LWTHS): www.lwh.collierschools.com/ students.htm To inquire about services offered to the

public at LWIT call (239) 377-0900 or go to http://lwit.edu/storefront; or for iTECH call (239) 658-7080 or (239) 377-0900 or go to http://itech.edu/ about_2.htm Professional Certifications • Accounting Operations • Automotive Collision Repair • Automotive Service Technology • Commercial Foods & Culinary Arts • Dental Assisting • Digital Design • Drafting • Entrepreneurship • E-Marketing • Legal Administrative Specialist • Marine Service Technology • Medical Administrative Specialist • Multimedia Design • Network Support Services • Patient Care Technician • Practical Nursing Lee County Public Schools Adult & Career Education (ACE) http://ace.leeschools.net

www.reedorthodonticsnaples.com

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

February 2015.indd 15

neafamily.com

15

1/23/15 6:23 PM

EDUCATION

By Kerrie McLoughlin

Building Character Through Adventure

Outward Bound for Teens

A

re your Collier County teens looking for something more significant to do this spring or summer break other than playing video games and hanging around the house? Would you like for them to learn character traits that will get them through a more meaningful life like compassion, self-reliance, leadership, teamwork, goal-setting and social responsibility? Would they enjoy learning such traits while sailing, cross-country skiing, dog-sledding, canoeing, mountain-climbing, camping, kayaking and more?

While this may sound too good to be true, it’s a very real non-profit, educational organization called Outward Bound.

There are many different options to choose from as far as length of program, ages that are eligible to attend, location, activity and more. There are even expeditions specifically for struggling teens, grieving teens, families in crisis and more. Kids develop new skills, establish fast friendships and leave the program with a passion for life like never before.

The founder of the program, Kurt Hahn, says, “I regard it as the foremost task of education to insure the survival of these qualities: an enterprising curiosity, an undefeatable spirit, tenacity in pursuit, readiness for sensible self-denial, and above all, compassion.” Students are made to help out every step of the way and not just sit passively as they might in a classroom. They are actively learning and thinking and participating the entire time.

The next Outward Bound opportunity for Collier County Public School (CCPS) students aged 15-17 is the Hurricane Island Outward Bound Leadership Program, March 14-March 21, 2015.

Participants will be sailing, snorkeling, swimming and more all while learning valuable lessons about diversity, community and service. No prior experience with any of these activities is needed.

Outward Bound even offers full scholarships. According to the CCPS website, “The Hurricane Island Outward Bound Scholarship Program awards nearly half a million dollars in support of more than 150 students each year.”

Kristen Krowley, an Outward Bound alumnus, shared that, “Outward Bound has changed my life in a way that no other person or group has even come close to doing. I not only acquired skills in outdoor preparedness and leadership, but also discovered a stronger and more confident person inside myself – one I had never before imagined.”

Those who apply to the scholarship program must demonstrate leadership potential, academically, athletically and/or socially. According to the CCPS site, applicants must supply a letter of intent and two letters of reference from non-family members.

Students who are ready for a life-changing experience can grab an application from their school counselor, or go to the “Students” page of the District Web site at: www.collierschools. com/students, then click on the “Outward Bound” icon. You can also contact Jeanette Arcia in the Student Services Office at (239) 377-0522 or by e-mail at arciaje@collierschools.com.

KERRIE MCLOUGHLIN is the chaos-loving mom of 5 and blogs at TheKerrieShow.com.

16

neafamily.com

February 2015.indd 16

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

1/23/15 6:23 PM

Planet Tails NF Ad - FOR PRINT.pdf

1

11/10/14

11:08 PM

woof. meow.

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

We will host your birthday party! Contact us for details. www.planettails.com × 239.653.9767 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 124 × Naples, FL 34109

It’s a New Year. Time to let Brain Balance get your child back on track.

It’s hard to watch your child struggle with social, behavior and academic problems. Brain Balance understands. Our program synchronizes left brain/right brain connections - a change proven to promote personal growth and improvement.

Brain Balance addresses: • Lack of Focus • Impulsivity • Tantrums

• Trouble Making Friends • Family Interactions/Relationships

VISIT Brain Balance Naples 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, #140 Naples, FL 34109 CALL 239-451-9167

$50 off our

www.brainbalancenaples.com Comprehensive NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

February 2015.indd 17

Assessment neafamily.com

17

1/23/15 7:04 PM

EDUCATION

By Stacy Nicolau

A Worthwhile Exchange

B

Student exchange programs offer Collier County students the opportunity to experience new cultures and build lasting relationships

y the time local teens reach high school, Naples can feel like a small town. High school is a great time to try a study abroad program or welcome a foreign teen student into your own Neapolitan family to experience a new culture and build a lasting relationship.

Many high schools in Collier County offer a variety of opportunities for students to spread their wings in another country.

Students also can participate in a national program on their own.

AFS-USA is a national intercultural program that offers teens age 15 through 18 Empty Bowls will be held years old the opportunity to study abroad Saturday, January foron a semester or year in a full14 educational immersion a summer program from 11program, a.m to 2orp.m. which focuses on language immersion,

18

neafamily.com

February 2015.indd 18

community service and cultural awareness.

This program, which has been organizing study experiences for over 65 years, sends more than 1100 students abroad and welcomes 2300 international students into American homes each year. The allinclusive program has some financial aid and merit scholarships available so any qualified student can participate.

School Year Abroad (SYA) is a similar study abroad program for high school juniors and seniors in select European and Chinese cities where the organization operates its own schools rather than having students attend traditional local schools.

The Naples Council on World Affairs (NCWA), a nonprofit group whose mission is to educate citizens on global issues, helps

to send area high school students on summer experiences through two study/service programs: The Experiment in International Living and The Student Diplomacy Corp. Last summer, NCWA awarded an international experience to eleven student applicants from five Collier County public high schools, Community School of Naples and Seacrest Country Day School. When participants return, they are asked to write about their experiences.

Golden Gate High School student Hannah Seitz traveled to Tanzania where she lived with a host family and followed all of their routines. In her essay describing her trip, Seitz writes how she learned that charity abroad is not always welcome if it is not needed. For example, Americans NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

1/23/15 7:04 PM

SIX BENEFITS OF STUDYING ABROAD

(Adapted from the AFS-USA and SYA websites) 1. Stand out in college applications: Universities want students with cross-cultural experience 2. Learn a new language: Immersion is one of the quickest way to become fluent in a new language 3. Gain a new perspective: Living in a different culture can be the best way to understand global social and political issues 4. Explore the world in high school: Learning about different cultures can help shape future goals and career choices 5. Learn independence and leadership skills by being away from family and routines 6. Make lifelong connections and memories: Students return with many new friends and a second family

FOUR BENEFITS OF HOSTING A STUDENT

1. Learn about another culture 2. Make lifelong friends and memories 3. Learn about yourself while sharing your life and home with a student 4. Learn a new language

hear that malaria is a problem so they send mosquito nets without thinking about the villagers who are selling nets also. “Once we give them mosquito nets,” Seitz explains, “it will not be necessary for the people to buy from local vendors, making them go out of business.”

Johann Charelus, a Lely high school student who traveled to Botswana, describes how his host family embraced him as one of their own. He also was relieved to find that they knew some English. “It was reassuring to know that I could learn the cultural language while simultaneously (being) capable of having meaningful conversations in a shared language.”

Sea Crest Country Day School student Cameron Buxton traveled to Mongolia.

Part of her trip was spent painting elementary schools and preparing English tests and cataloging English libraries for the students.

She soon found out that that pickled cabbage would be a part of her every meal because the host families were instructed to

make sure the students were offered plenty of vegetables.

In January, Community School of Naples (CSN) welcomed sixteen students from the American School of Valencia (ASV) from Spain. As part of CSN’s own Global Exchange program, the visiting students lived with a host family, attended CSN classes and visited area attractions.

In return, ASV will return the hospitality by hosting ten CSN middle and high school students and two faculty members in March. Last September fifteen CSN students went to St. Stephens School in Rome; In March, the students from Rome will come to Naples.

Neus Forner, Marta Ortiz-Cañavate, Patricia Portilla and Nikita Parfenov were four of the Valencia students who came to CSN. Besides attending school at CSN, host families kept the students busy with weekend trips to the beach, boating, sporting events and ice-skating. Neus’ host family even whisked her off to Universal

Orlando, where the self-proclaimed Harry Potter fan got to experience the world of the wizard. Neus, an only child, enjoyed being part of a family with five kids and four dogs.

Three of the students who studied in Rome last fall, Zannos Grekos, Brendan Miles and Chris Childs all agreed that they liked having free time in Italy to immerse themselves in Italian culture and noted that the food seemed “fresher” and “tasted better there.” Chris felt he benefited from the trip because being separated from his family and from his classmates forced him to be more outgoing and independent.

The one experience that the Valencia students all agreed on was their first experience with Chik-fil-a. “I love it,” Patricia gushed. “I’m going again this afternoon.”

STACY NICOLAU is the assistant publisher of Neapolitan Family. A graduate of the University of North Carolina, Stacy is the mother of 3 children attending Collier County public schools.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: AFS-USA: Summer, semester or full year programs and provides support to American host families. www.afsusa.org/about-afs The Experiment in International Living: Provides 3, 4, or 5-week summer programs for students who want to connect deeply with another culture. www.experiment.org The Naples Council on World Affairs: Helps to provide financial assistance to high school students who want to participate in their cultural ambassador program. www.ncwa-fl.org/eil.html School Year Abroad (SYA): Summer and school year programs where students attend an SYA school in France, Italy, Spain or China www.sya.org/s/833/index. aspx?sid=833&gid=1&pgid=1001 Student Diplomacy Corps: Provides opportunities and scholarships for students to promote civic engagement and understanding of global issues. http://sdcorps.org/

Covenant Church of Naples Mom’s Morning Out

You may sign up for both Mondays and Thursdays!

Providing a loving environment for children while offering mothers and fathers a needed break Mondays 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

Winter 2015 Themed Sessions

Monday Sessions: Monday A: January 12-February 16 Monday B: February 23-March 16 Thursday Sessions: Thursday A: January 14-February 18 Thursday B- February 25-April 2

Free swimming at Hurry! Space is limited. For more information or to register your child visit River Park Aquatic Center www.covenantnaples.com/ministries/childrens_ministry/moms_morning_out/ NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

February 2015.indd 19

neafamily.com

19

1/23/15 7:05 PM

EDUCATION

By Rainer Olbrich

Every Classroom Needs An Opa!

Retired volunteers making a big difference at Parkside Elementary School Opa is German for grandfather. arkside Elementary School in East Naples is a unique community-based school. It is the only Collier County public school where no students are bussed, nearly 90% of the students come from homes where only Spanish or Haitian Creole is spoken, and where most grandparents live in other countries, principally the Caribbean. Since it opened in 2007, Parkside has qualified as a Title I School, receiving federal assistance because of the high percentage of students from low-income families: some 97% of its students participate in the free or reduced-price lunch program.

Parkside is fortunate to have a team of dedicated and hardworking administrators, teachers and support staff, headed by principal Tamie Stewart. In her third year as principal, Stewart already can point to important accomplishments. Most significantly, Parkside was one of only two schools in Florida to improve its state ranking last year from an “F” to a “C”.

The school also has added new activities, designed to provide opportunities for learning and fun that many other Collier County schools already enjoy. Such initiatives include the East Naples Kiwanis-sponsored “BUG” Program (Bring-Up-YourGrades) involving 200 students, grades two through five, through extracurricular reading; and the recent establishment of

Opa” Rainer Olbrich works with a student in Mrs. Hopkins’ 2nd grade classroom

P

a Publishing Center, which encourages students to share their writings with friends and family.

Volunteers needed Supporting the efforts of the staff are Parkside’s volunteers. One of the most significant efforts at the school recently has been the recruitment of more volunteers, principally retirees. Parkside’s long-term goal is finding a volunteer for each of school’s classes in every grade, ranging from preschool to fifth grade. The particular

Students in Mrs. Hopkins’ class enjoy the special attention they receive from their adopted grandfather, Rainer Olbrich 20

neafamily.com

February 2015.indd 20

need is for enthusiastic, giving adults who will “adopt” classes as their own for at least three hours once per week during normal school hours (9 a.m. to 2:40 p.m.).

Many volunteer opportunities exist in the classroom, assisting the teacher through group or individual tutoring, reading, and writing, as well as in the media center, the publishing center, or participating in field trips. Volunteers choose the time and grade that suit their schedules and comfort levels.

Parkside students need adult role models and are starved for grandparents.

We invite any adult to consider becoming a volunteer at this unique school. To arrange a personal, nonobligatory “get-acquainted” visit to the school, contact Tom Gemmer at 239-377-8900.

Having been a second grade school volunteer for the past 12 years, with the last two years at Parkside Elementary, I continue to be amazed by the many joys of my volunteer experience. It has been an extremely rewarding experience.

Rainer Olbrich, “Opa” retired from banking and lives in Naples with his wife Yuly. Rainer has four grandchildren–3 in CCPS’s–and is an avid community and school volunteer.

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

1/23/15 7:05 PM

CITY CONNECTION PARKS DEPT. By Laura Tichy-Smith

Fabulous February Fun at the Naples City Parks Your family will love February at these fabulous events offered by the City of Naples Community Services Department.

Sensational Saturday (Ages 5 — 22) Need a Saturday to run errands or just take a break? River Park (301 11th Street North, Naples) has you covered. A swim, a craft, playground time and pizza for lunch equals a tired kid to pick up. Saturday, Feb. 28 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; $20. Pre-registration is required.

For more information, call 239-213-3037.

Free Concerts at the Cambier Park Bandshell Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free concerts in Cambier Park (755 Eighth Avenue South, Naples.) Concert schedule: Naples Dixieland Band on Sunday, Feb. 1 at 2 p.m.; Naples Concert Band on Sunday, Feb 8 at 2 p.m.; Music Makers on Monday, Feb. 9 at 7 p.m.; Gulfcoast Big Band on Sunday, Feb. 15 at 2 p.m.; the U.S. Navy Band on Sunday, Feb. 28 at 2 p.m. For more information, call 239-213-3058.

Free Concert at River Park Community Center The Jazz Masters will present a free Dixieland jazz concert at the Community Center (301 11th Street North, Naples) on Feb. 14 at 1 p.m. For information, call 239-213-3037.

Baby Fitness (18 months and up) Instill healthy habits for life in your toddler by attending the drop-in class called Mommy and Me Open Gym at Fleishmann Park (1600 Fleishmann Blvd., Naples) on Fridays from 10 — 11:30 a.m. $5 per child. For more information, call 239-213-3020.

Life and Social Skills Class (8 —12 years) Two new classes at Fleishmann Park (1600 Fleishmann Blvd., Naples) will give your young gentleman or lady the tools and techniques for building a positive self-image. The basic class covers introductions, polite conversation, dining etiquette, clothing maintenance, personal grooming and the importance of respect and giving back to the community. Thursdays Feb. 5 — Feb. 26 from 4:30 — 5:30 p.m.; $75. The advanced class covers multi-person introductions, dining etiquette will include use of chopsticks, clothing maintenance will cover more detailed sewing techniques, personal grooming will include use of color and fashion styling. Thursdays Feb. 5 — Feb. 26 from 6 — 7 p.m.; $75. Contact Laura Spell for questions at office@mannersdance.com. To register, call 239-213-3020.

Art with Miss Beth Calling all creative boys and girls to this new art class that will explore many forms of 2D and 3D art. Make unique and interesting pieces of art with ordinary and extraordinary things.

Thursdays Feb. 5 — Feb. 26 from 3:15 — 4:30 p.m.; $60. To register, call Fleishmann Park at 239-213-3020 (1600 Fleishmann Blvd., Naples.)

Kick and Get Fit with Martial Arts Classes Fleischmann Park (1600 Fleishmann Blvd., Naples) offers martial arts classes for children as young as age 5 or 6. Choices include Couong Nhu Karate on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6 – 8 p.m., and Muai Thai Kick Boxing on Mondays and Wedensdays from 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. Call 239-213-3020 for prices, dates and registration.

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

February 2015.indd 21

neafamily.com

21

1/23/15 7:05 PM

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS

Health-Safety Day/Open House

Does Your Child Need Math Help?

A

s the solution to your child’s math tutoring needs, X-Factor, LLC services vary and are tailored to best suit each student’s style of learning. Robby Baker, owner and state certified educator and primary tutor, will help your child stay ahead of the ever changing educational standards.

Be sure to ask about proven success with peer partner instruction and the convenience of live webcast and Skype options.

X-Factor staff assess your child’s current level of comprehension and then develop and monitor the child’s skills. They assist your child in connecting previous knowledge to future topics and track and adjust accordingly.

Your child’s study habits, note taking tips and review skills will also be monitored.

For more information on X-Factor Tutoring call Robby Baker at 239-4500095 or email xfactorllc1@gmail.com.

X-Factor is on the web at tinyurl.com/ xfactortutoring

T

emple Shalom Preschool is hosting its annual Health-Safety Day/Open House on Sunday, February 15th from 11am to 2pm. This is a special activity-packed program educating children about health and safety. The children enjoy seeing fire trucks up close and personal. EMT shows up in their ambulances for the children to have a clear view of what is inside its vehicles, and the police department brings their mascot, McGruff the Crime Dog, teaching the children about combating crime in the area. Water safety, a major concern for parents in the area, is reinforced. Domestic animal services is another presenter along with Smokey the Bear from the Department of Forestry. Plus, children will enjoy the rock climbing wall and the bounce house. Health-Safety Day is open to the general public.

Parents will also have a chance to tour the preschool and meet the teachers. For more information, please call Seyla Cohen at 239-455-3227.

Planet Tails Grand Opening

O

n Feb 7 from 10am to 4 pm, Planet Tails will host a Grand Opening and “Need room for Mo’ Cats!” Planet Tails Cat Cafe’ fundraiser. The fundraiser will allow the business to make the cat cafe 3x bigger with a food and beverage section. You can win amazing prizes including having your pet appear in the 2016 calendar plus a special grand prize. Kids, families, and leashed dogs are welcome. The event is free to public.

Kids Kritter Craft Days are held on the 3rd Thursday and Saturday of each month from 1-2pm. $10 each child, reservations suggested. In February children can make origami birds for the Cat Cafe and puppy-theme bookmarks to take home.

Planet Tails is located at 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Rd. #124, Naples. Check www. planettails.com or call (239) 653-9767 for more information.

Happy kids. Sparkly smiles.

Try it at our office!

ZOOBY Exclusively marketed by Denticator™

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

22

neafamily.com

February 2015.indd 22

Naples Pediatric Dentistry www.goodcheckup.com

239.592.0800

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

1/23/15 7:05 PM

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS

Little Explorer Play Zone at the Conservancy Now Open

LOSE INCHES WITH

C

ome play, learn and explore! The new Little Explorer Play Zone at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida Nature Center features a crawl through Gopher Tortoise burrow, a life size Bald Eagle’s nest and more interactive areas for little ones to investigate.

The play zone is open seven days a week from 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Along with the opening of the new play zone, the Conservancy now offers their “Little Explorers” pre-K programs. The programs, designed for children age 18 months to 5 years old, allow children to explore nature and discover amazing animals.

Special programs will be held on select Thursdays at 10 a.m.

February 12: Sassy the Sea Turtle February 26: Little Owl Lost March 12: Be a Junior Veterinarian March 26: Little Cardinal and Friends April 9: Adventures of Gopher Tortoise April 23: “How my little hands can help the Earth” No registration required and members may enter for free.For the general public admission is free with purchase of Nature Center admission.

All Conservancy Nature Center programs and events are online at www.conservancy. org/nature-center, and membership is available online at www.conservancy.org/join.

The Conservancy Nature Center at 1495 Smith Preserve Way in Naples. The Little Explorer Play Zone is in the Ferguson Learning Labs, inside the Coffin-Williams Room. For additional information call 239-262-0304 or visit www.conservancy.org.

Creative Discipline Workshop

D

oes your child show signs of defiance? Are you struggling with how and when to discipline? Have you tried everything and are just not sure what to do? Join Collier Child Care Resources, Inc. for “The Creative Discipline for Parents Workshop.”

The workshop will be held Friday, February 6 from 5-6 p.m. at the NCEF Early Childhood Development Center located at Florida SouthWestern State College, Collier Campus (7505 Grand Lely Drive, Bldg. K, Naples 34113).

Keynote speaker and author of “When Nothing Else Works,” William J. DeMeo Ph.D., will be discussing creative methods to transform your child’s behavior. This dynamic and interactive workshop has been designed to provide practical and effective approaches to discipline which can be applied by any parent. Tickets are $25 at the door. RSVP to MabelR@collierchildcare.org.

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

February 2015.indd 23

Try a full body, muscle toning workout that’s not only FUN, but the newest fitness RAGE. Cage Fitness™ has all the benefits of a full contact martial arts workout without the contact!

Boxing/Kickboxing

$

• Sweat Pouring • Muscle Burning • Butt Kicking EXERCISE! CALL NOW!

ONLY

49

597-5900

Karate Tai Chi • Fitness Self Defense • Lose Weight • Get Fit

Academy of Martial Arts

7765 Preserve Lane, Unit #1, Naples, FL 34119

Kids Galore & More Community Consignment Event Saturday, March 28, 2015 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Gymnasium at North Collier Regional Park RecPlex, Livingston Road, Naples Offering families an opportunity to BUY and SELL gently used and new baby, kids and maternity items at a fraction of the cost.

In addition to the consignment sale, the event will be an opportunity for parents to shop local preschools, summer camps, and community entities.

WHAT YOU MIGHT FIND . . .

• Toys • Baby Equipment & Gear • Bikes & Trikes • Children’s & Maternity Clothing • Sports Equipment and so much more!

Practically Everything & Anything For Expecting Parents, Arriving Babies And Growing Kids!

Now accepting consignors! www.kgamconsignmentevents. neafamily.com

23

1/23/15 7:05 PM

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

15

16

2:00 PM. Something’s Fishy at South County Regional Library. A discussion of fish anatomy followed by the creation of fish prints. Participants may bring a plain t-shirt to print on if desired, in lieu of paper printing.

Presented by Imaginarium.

Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239- 479-4636 for additional information.

11:00 AM. Health-Safety Day & Open House at Temple Shalom Preschool.

An activity packed day program educating children about health and safety.

Located at 4630 Pine Ridge Road, Naples. Call 239455-3227 or check www. naplestemple.org/study/ preschool/ for additional information.

17

4:00 PM. Chocolate Lover’s Party at Vanderbilt Library.

Join us for a sweet afternoon of edible crafts made from chocolate, chocolate and more chocolate! Ages 6-11 years. Registration required. Located at 788 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. Call 239-5978444 or check http:// public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

18

6:30 PM. Astronomy Family Program at South County Library. Astronomer Kevin Manning presents an exciting family program for all ages about the universe from the very large to the very small. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239- 4794636 for additional information.

11

9

8

10

12:00 PM. Silhouette Artist. Twinkle Twinkle Little Store is hosting Disney’s Master silhouette artist Keith Donaldson. Our price includes 2 matted facing silhouettes for $30. You can visit Keith’s website at www.

ICutyouout.com. Located at 4172 Tamiami Trail North, Naples.

4

5:00 PM. Open House at Montessori Academy of Naples. Come tour the school, no appointment necessary. Located at 2659 Professional Circle, Naples. Call 239-597-2255 or check www.naplesmontessori.org for additional information.

3

2:00 PM. Valentine Workshop at South Regional Library. Drop in to make a valentine for someone you love. We’ll have all the supplies you need. Ages 3 -10 years. Registration not required. Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

2

2:00 PM. Smokin Jazz Series at Mercato. Free jazz concerts on the lawn presented by Bayshore Cultural and Performing Arts Center. Located at 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 or check www.mercatoshops.com for additional information.

1

2:00 PM. Make and Take Craft at Artis-Naples. Makeand-Take workshops present opportunities for kids and adults alike to learn about a featured museum exhibition, and then create their own artwork inspired by the exhibition. Located at 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples. Call 239-597-1111 or check http://artisnaples.org for additional information.

10:00 AM. Moms and Tots Storytime with Miss Jessica and Miss Felicia. A toddler favorite, the girls read, sing, dance and color, creating a fun atmosphere of learning and lots of laughter. All ages are welcome. Held at Barnes & Noble, 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 for information. Held weekly on Tuesday.

wednesday

9:00 AM. Free Clam Pass Walks. Free, guided walk of boardwalk, bay, and beach – approximately 2 hours.

Meet your Conservancy of Southwest Florida guide at the gazebo near the parking lot tram stop. For more details and pictures go to www.conservancy.org/ nature-center/nature-walks.

Held Monday - Saturday (except holidays).

6

3:00 PM. Naples Philharmonic Youth Orchestra Winter Concert. This concert will also include debut performances from the NPYO Chamber Ensembles.

Free. Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples. Call 239-597-1111 or check http://artisnaples. org for information.

5

tuesday

sunday

6

7

19

20

21

14 3:00 PM. Kids Fun Day and Pizza Party. Come enjoy an awesome afternoon of fun games, activities, and pizza! Exciting martial arts skills, fun obstacle course challenges, dodgeball challenges, and more - only $20. Please register in advance. Call 239-596-1633 or visit ImpactNaples.com.

Located at 5926 Premier Way Unit 128, Naples.

13

9:00 AM. Jammin’ in the Hammock Bluegrass Festival. For lineup of entertainment check www. floridastateparks.org. $20 pp per day or $30 pp for 2 days. Children under 13 free (with paid adult). Held at Collier-Seminole State Park, 20200 Tamiami Trail East, Naples. Runs through Sunday, February 15.

8:00 PM. Into the Woods

by CFABS Teen Players.

The Brothers Grimm “go Broadway” as Sondheim and Lapine offer up a cockeyed fairy tale in this adaptation of one of Sondheim’s most popular works. Refreshments including beer and wine available. For further information call 239495-8989 or visit www. artcenterbonita.org.

5:30 PM. Parents’ Night Out at My Gym. Parents have a fun evening out while children have fun at My Gym. Perfect for children ages 2 years and up who are potty trained.

Call 239-431-6499 or check mygym.com/naples for additional information.

9:00 AM. Free Zoo Admission for Collier County residents. Collier County residents receive free zoo admission all day long.

Located at 1590 GoodletteFrank Road, Naples. Call 239-262-5409 or check www.caribbeangardens. com for additional information.

5:00 PM. Creative Discipline Workshop. Does your child show signs of defiance? Are you struggling with how and when to discipline? Held at NCEF Early Childhood Development Center located at Florida Southwestern State College, Collier Campus, 7505 Grand lely Drive, Building K, Naples. $25 at the door. RSVP to MabelR@ collierchildcare.org.

12

5

saturday

friday

1:00 PM. Kids Critter Craft Day. Fun animal-themed crafts at Planet Tails. $10 each child, reservations suggested. Located at 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 124, Naples. Call 239-293-3513 or check /www.planettails.com for additional information.

thursday

Best Bets

monday

neafamily.com

1221

February

24

23

22

24

25

6:00 PM. 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 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples. Call 239597-1900 for additional information.

www.milestones-estero.com

27

10:30 AM. Explorations at HQ Library. Preschool children will explore the concepts of matching, comparing and sorting through a variety of hands-on activities. Ages 18 months-5 years. Registration required.

Located at 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

28

11:00 AM. I am Rosa Parks at Barnes and Noble. In celebration of Black History Month, join us on February 28 at 11:00 am for a Storytime and activities featuring two notable figures with the titles I am Rosa Parks and I am Jackie Robinson.

Located at 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 for additional information.

Building a Firm Foundation for Tomorrow!

26

10:00 AM. Little Explorers Pre-K Program at the Conservancy. The program, designed for children age 18 months to 5 years old, allows children to explore nature and discover amazing animals. The Conservancy Nature Center at 1495 Smith Preserve Way in Naples. For additional information call 239-2620304 or visit www.conservancy.org.

• Full-time (M-F) 7am-6:30p • Part-time (3 days a week that you pick) 7am-6:30pm • Half day care (M-F) 8am-12pm • 8 Weeks to 5 years old • Potty training • Small class sizes • Accept VPK • Extracurricular activities such as yoga, dance and gymnastics • Specialized themed classrooms CONVENIENT TO NAPLES, BONITA & ESTERO

Call for time. 11th Annual Marjory Stoneman Douglass Festival. Immerse yourself in South Florida’s amazing River of Grass with this five-day offering of scientific talks, pioneer stories, photography displays and workshops, nature walks, canoe trips, and guided tours. (239) 695-0008.

Located at 105 Broadway West, Everglades City.

19850 Breckenridge Drive in Estero, Florida Phone: 239-301-2962 • Email: gina@milestones-estero.com

5:30 PM. Chocolate Creations at Naples Regional Library. Join us as we make and then eat tasty chocolate creations. Grades 3 and older. Registration required.

Located at 650 Central Avenue, Naples. Call 239262-6853 or check http:// public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

2:00 PM. Free Concerts at the Bandshell. Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park.

For more information, call 239-213-3058. Located at 755 Eighth Avenue South, Naples.

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

neafamily.com

25

YOUR COMMUNITY February EVENTS CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS: 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 information.

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

1 Sunday 9:00 AM. Free Briggs Boardwalk Walk.

Conservancy of Southwest Florida volunteer guides take you through five ecocommunities from scrub to brackish ponds.

Briggs Boardwalk is a Great Florida Birding Trail site. Free, self-guided boardwalk open year round, dawn to dusk.Volunteer guides available most mornings Monday thru Sunday. For details, pictures and directions, go to www.conservancy.org/ nature-center/nature-walks. Call (239) 2620304 for additional information. Held daily.

2:00 PM. Free Concerts at the Bandshell.

Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park.

For more information, call 239-213-3058.

Located at 755 Eighth Avenue South, Naples.

3:00 PM. Naples Philharmonic Youth Orchestra Winter Concert. The Naples Philharmonic Youth Orchestra performs a variety of classical works. This concert will also include debut performances from the NPYO Chamber Ensembles.

Free. Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples. Call 239-597-1111 or

26

neafamily.com

February 2015.indd 26

check http://artisnaples.org for information.

2 Monday 8:30 AM. Free Tigertail Beach Walks.

Meet your Conservancy of Southwest Florida volunteer guides at the kiosk for a walking tour of this natural beach. Site #73 on the “Great Florida Birding Trail”. The tidal lagoon and mudflats offer great views of many of the Gulf Coast’s seasonal and year-round avian residents such as ospreys, pelicans, plovers, sandpipers, egrets, herons and roseate spoonbills, some of which are rare or endangered. Walks are 1-2 hours. Bring water shoes and binoculars. For directions, go to www. conservancy.org/nature-center/nature-walks.

Held every Monday-Friday except holidays.

9:00 AM. Free Clam Pass Walks. Free, guided walk of boardwalk, bay, and beach – approximately 2 hours. Learn importance of mangrove trees, some Florida history, and meet fascinating creatures and plants that share this unique habitat. Meet your Conservancy of Southwest Florida guide at the gazebo near the parking lot tram stop.

Clam Pass Park is west of US 41 on Seagate

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

1/23/15 7:06 PM

Drive. For more details and pictures go to www.conservancy.org/ nature-center/nature-walks. Held Monday - Saturday (except holidays).

9:30 AM. Guided Canoe Trip on the Blackwater River. The Friends Of Collier-Seminole State Park invite you to join us on our 3-hour canoe trip. $30.00 per person. Learn about our unique ecosystem & history, unique geology & animals. No paddling experience necessary. No children under 6 years of age. For reservations the Park Ranger Station at 239-394-3397. Located at 20200 Tamiami Trail East, Naples, FL 34114 (Near the intersection of Hwy 92 & 41). Held daily Monday through Saturday.

Getting the

Perfect Prom Dress

10:00 AM. Baby-Parent Rhyme Time at South Country Regional Library. This program is for the whole family and lasts about 30 minutes. Registration is required. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Call 239- 479-4636 for information. Held weekly on Monday.

Means Shopping Early

Don't Wait! You Could Miss Out on Your Dream Dress.

10:30 AM. Janet Ruth Science Sleuth at Headquarters Library.

Local educator Janet Lawton will lead a series of programs to guide preschool children through some of the mysteries of science.

Children will make crafts during each session. For ages 4-5 years.

Registration required. Located at 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

Special Occasion Clothing ~Custom & Ready to Wear~ Bar/Bat Mitzvah • Sweet 16 • Prom • Graduation • Communion • Homecoming • Bridal Party • Night Out • Holiday Events PRIVATE APPOINTMENTS RECOMMENDED FOR CUSTOM CLOTHES

2:00 PM. Free Concerts at the Bandshell. Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park. Naples Jazz Orchestra performs. For more information, call 239-213-3058. Located at 755 Eighth Avenue South, Naples.

Girls | Boys | Teens | Adults

239.431.8440

WWW.STACYSGOLDENHANGER.COM

Shops at Vanderbilt

6:30 PM. Evenings at the Conservancy - Mike Orlando, Black Bears. Presentations are held in Eaton Conservation Hall. General Admission $10; Free to members. Seating is space-available. To make a reservation, contact Kelsey Hudson at (239) 403-4228 or email her at kelseyh@conservancy.org.

3 Tuesday 10:00 AM. Moms and Tots Storytime with Miss Jessica and Miss Felicia. 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. Held at Barnes & Noble, 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 for information. Held weekly on Tuesday.

(between Toast & The Good Life)

2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 168 Naples FL 34108

Dance Arts by Maria

4:00 PM. BYOV Valentine Signing Event at Estates Library.

Bring Your Own store-bought Valentines and your class list.

We’ll make the signing/addressing part fun with a snack, craft, prize drawing and other fun. Grades K through 5. Registration required. Located at 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples.

Check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

4 Wednesday 10:00 AM. Family Story Time at South Regional Library. This program is for the whole family and lasts about 30 minutes. Registration is required. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero.

Call 239- 479-4636 for information. Held weekly on Wednesday.

10:00 AM. Free Kids Crafts at Miromar Outlets. Located at 10801 Corkscrew Rd, Estero. Call 239-948-3766 or check www.miromaroutlets.com for additional information. Held weekly on Wednesday.

10:30 AM. Family Story Time at Bonita Springs Library.

Located at 26876 Pine Avenue, Bonita Springs. Call 239-9920101 for additional information. Held weekly on Wednesday.

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

February 2015.indd 27

Teaching love and appreciation for the art of dance.

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

neafamily.com

27

1/23/15 7:06 PM

2:00 PM. Make and Take Craft at Artis-Naples. Make-and-Take workshops present opportunities for kids and adults alike to learn about a featured museum exhibition, and then create their own artwork inspired by the exhibition. Located at 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples.

Call 239-597-1111 or check http://artisnaples.org for additional information.

5:00 PM. Center for the Arts Bonita Springs Auditions for Mulan. Ages 10 and up are welcome to audition. Auditions will include singing, dancing and acting. Everyone should prepare 16 bars of a song to sing with or without musical backing, MP3 or CD preferred, no vocal backing please. Actors will then learn a short dance routine with a group of 5 or more and be paired with other actors to read from the script. Please wear clothes you can move in comfortably and no flip flops or sandals, tennis shoes are best. Rehearsals are Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 5-7pm, February 9-May 7, 2015. Held at Center for Performing Arts-Moe Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Road SE, Bonita Springs.

Call 239-495-8989 or check www.artcenterbonita.org for additional information.

7:00 PM. The Boston Pops at Germain Arena. The Boston Pops performs the best music of the past and present, appealing to the

widest possible audience with a broad spectrum of styles, from jazz to pop, indie rock to big band, film music to the great American songbook. Located at 11000 Everblades Pkwy, Estero. Call 239-335-0457 or check www.germainarena.com for additional information.

memory in maintaining one’s spiritual self; how sensual experience and stimuli might be used to maintain the spiritual life of the patient. Located at Vanderbilt Presbyterian Church, 1255 Piper Blvd., Naples. Call 239-597-5410 for information.

5 Thursday

11:00 AM. Greek Festival. Come on out to St. Katherine’s -- 7100 Airport Pulling Road at Orange Blossom -- where you can celebrate the Greek spirit while feasting on delicious Greek food, wine, and pastries, created by our pastry & meal chefs. Admission is free on Friday, February 6 from 11 until 3 p.m. Festival hours are from 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. on Friday & Saturday, February 7 & 8, and from 12 - 7 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 9. Admission: Buy a wrist band for just $4 and enjoy the entire weekend. Admission is free for children under 12 on all days. For more information, go to www.stkatherine.net or call 239-591-3430.

9:00 AM. First Baptist Academy Open House. Guided tours of the school. Call 239-597-2233 for additional information.

6 Friday 10:00 AM. ArtFest Fort Myers. Over the weekend attendees can enjoy and purchase artwork in a variety of mediums and prices from more than 200 nationally recognized artists from across the country and around the world. The festival celebrates its Opening Night with 60 festival artists from 6 to 9 p.m. Held at Centennial Park, 2000 West First Street, Ft. Myers. Check www.fortmyersmusicwalk.com for additional information.

10:00 AM. Vanderbilt Presbyterian Church Wholistic Health Seminar. “Spirituality and Alzheimer’s” Join noted speaker Jack Siberski, SJ, MD as we consider: the spiritual dilemma of the patient with dementia as well as the caregiver; the role of

5:00 PM. Creative Discipline Workshop.

Does your child show signs of defiance? Are you struggling with how and when to discipline? Join Collier Child Care Resources, Inc. for “The Creative Discipline for Parents Workshop.” Held at NCEF Early Childhood Development Center located at Florida Southwestern State College, Collier Campus, 7505 Grand lely Drive, Building K, Naples.

Tickets are $25 at the door. RSVP to Ma-

Explore the New Year with Collier County Parks & Recreation

Our mission is to enrich the quality of life for the community and visitors and protect the natural resources of Collier County.

After School • Camps • VPK & Preschool Homeschool • Aquatics • Arts & Music Education • Dance Fitness • Therapeutic Sports • Extreme & Water Sports • Social Special Events

15000 Livingston Rd. • Naples, FL • 34109 239-252-4000 • www.collierparks.com

28

neafamily.com

February 2015.indd 28

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

1/23/15 7:06 PM

belR@collierchildcare.org.

6:00 PM. Golden Gate Community Center Kids Trivia Night.

Parents need a night out? Bring your child to the battle of the minds. We will be having kids compete against each other for Movie/TV trivia questions. Must pre-register. Registration is limited. $8. Located at 4701 Golden Gate Pkwy, Naples. Call 239252-4180 or check http://colliergov.net for additional information.

6:00 PM. Max Hasse Community Park 5th Grade Dance. Dance the night away at our school dances. Tickets go on sale 2 weeks in advance. $10. Locted at 3390 Golden Gate Pkwy, Naples. Call 239348-7500 or check http://colliergov.net for additional information.

7:00 PM. Outdoor Family Movie Night: Charlotte’s Web. Pack your blankets, lawn chairs, picnic baskets and coolers and watch this Academy Award winning film under the stars with your family and friends. Alliance for the Arts is located at 10091 McGregor Boulevard, Ft. Myers. Call 239-939-0794 or check www.artinlee.org for additional information.

Heather Bladich Hair by Heather

(239) 285-9505

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

7 Saturday Call for time. Night at the Museum: Big Wigs Fundraiser.

Let’s party for a purpose by grabbing a wig in any length, color or shape! Join us for a night of hair-raising fun at the Museum.

Guests will enjoy live entertainment, drinks, dancing and C’mon interactive programming to spark imaginations. It will be a night to remember with a trendy auction featuring opportunities to fund educational dreams through a Fund A Need. Held at Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, 15080 Livingston Road, Naples. Call 239-514-0084 or check www.cmon.org for information.

Call for time. Third Annual Fort Myers Beach Got Talent. Enter the Talent Contest and enjoy food from the local restaurants as you shop the vendors with crafts. Held on Fort Myers . Call (239) 463-3600 for information.

LEARNING CAN BE FUN Give your kids a head start on school this year 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

9:00 AM. Free Zoo Admission for Collier County residents. Collier County residents receive free zoo admission all day long. Enter any time, all day long up until 4 p.m. with no coupon required - just proof of residency for all adults. Located at 1590 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples. Call 239-262-5409 or check www.caribbeangardens.com for additional information.

9:00 AM. Fresh Fruits & vegetables, flowers, cookies and many other items. Spaces for rent. Held at Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-4180 or check http:// colliergov.net for additional information. Held weekly on Saturday.

10:00 AM. Grand Opening Planet Tails. Over $1000 in prizes.

Kids, families, leashed dogs welcome. Free to public. Located at 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 124, Naples. Call 239-293-3513 or check http://www.planettails.com for additional information.

11:00 AM. Ready Rabbit Gets Ready! Storytime at Barnes and Noble. Join us for Storytime and activities featuring Ready Rabbit Gets Ready! Ready Rabbit, it’s time to get ready! Join us for a fun reading of Ready Rabbit Gets Ready! and see if he is able to get ready for school in time. Located at 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples.

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

1:00 PM. Venetian Carnival. Enjoy a live opera performance, mask decorating, face painting, and more. Adorn your favorite Mardi Gras style mask and get your complimentary photo taken in our photo op. Village on Venetian Bay, 4200 Gulf Shore Blvd North, Naples. Call 239-2616100 or check www.venetianvillage.com for additional information.

$100 off

th’s Tuition First Mon 5 ires 2/28/1 Exp

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

239-631-2348 • www.WiseMindsLearning.com

PoolMDInc … add life to your pool or Sign up f of 5 Months ice Pool Servonth Get 6th M

FREE!

NEW

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

February 2015.indd 29

ERS CUSTOM

ONLY •

EXPIRES

2/28/15

Duniel Busto

239.404.6066

PoolMD@hotmail.com neafamily.com

29

1/23/15 7:06 PM

Many Collier County Library programs require preregistration, please call ahead for any program you are interested in attending to check requirements.

1:30 PM. Thomas Alva Edison Regional Science & Inventors Fair. The projects and inventions are first judged and then open to the public to view around 3 PM. Approximately $900,000 in college scholarships are awarded at the Regional Fairs and the winners of the Regional Science Fair go on to State and International competitions where additional scholarships are available. Located at 10501 FGCU Blvd South, Estero. Check www. edisonfestival.org for additional information.

8 Sunday 1:30 PM. Cinema Sundays - “Reptiles and Amphibians.” Discover the glorious variety of life on Earth and the extraordinary tactics animals and plants have developed to survive. The “Life” BBC Earth series explores some of the most elusive and fascinating animals on our planet. Learn all about reptiles and amphibians and their sophisticated adaptations for survival in some of the most extreme conditions. Members: Free; Others: regular admission rates apply. We’ll even supply the popcorn! Located at 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples. Go to www.conser-

30

neafamily.com

February 2015.indd 30

vancy.org/cinema for more information.

cated at 4172 Tamiami Trail North, Naples.

2:00 PM. Free Concerts at the Bandshell. Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park. Naples Concert Band performs. For more information, call 239-213-3058. Located at 755 Eighth Avenue South, Naples.

3:00 PM. iPad Fun at South Regional Library. The iPads are coming for a visit.

Sign up for a one half hour session and learn to take pictures and make videos plus play a few games. Open to ages 6-11 years. Registration required. Daily through Friday. Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check http://public. collier-lib.org for additional information.

2:00 PM. Smokin Jazz Series at Mercato.

Free jazz concerts on the lawn presented

by Bayshore Cultural and Performing Arts Center. Located at 9128 Strada Place, Naples.

Call 239-594-9400 or check www.mercatoshops.com for additional information.

9 Monday 12:00 PM. Silhouette Artist. Twinkle Twinkle Little Store is hosting Disney’s Master silhouette artist Keith Donaldson. Keith will be creating amazing freehand silhouette portraits of children using only a pair of scissors by simply looking at the child!! These make wonderful keepsakes and gifts. We’d love to include you for this fun and wonderful event for these popular keepsakes. Our price includes 2 matted facing silhouettes for $30. You can visit Keith’s website at www.ICutyouout.com. Lo-

6:00 PM. Sweets for the Sweet at East Naples Library. Make some edible valentine crafts that you can eat or share with your sweet hearts. Ages 3 years and older. Registration required. Located at 8787 Tamiami Trail East. Call 239-775-5592 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

6:30 PM. Make Treasure Boxes at Headquarters Library. Turn a simple hinged box into a jeweled or leather-like box to hold favorite items. Ages 6-10 years. Registration required. Located at 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check http://public. collier-lib.org for additional information.

7:00 PM. Free Concerts at the Bandshell.

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

1/23/15 7:06 PM

Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park. Naples Jazz Orchestra performs. For more information, call 239-213-3058. Located at 755 Eighth Avenue South, Naples.

10 Tuesday

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

2:00 PM. Valentine Workshop at South Regional Library.

Drop in to make a valentine for someone you love. We’ll have all the supplies you need. Ages 3 -10 years. Registration not required.

Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

6:15 PM. Pizza and Pages at South County Library. A speedy meet and greet with new books. Pizza dinner follows. For 5th grade students and older. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Parkway, Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for additional information.

7:30 PM. Annie Opens. Leapin’ Lizards! The world’s best-loved musical returns in time-honored form. Directed by original lyricist and director Martin Charnin and choreographed by Liza Gennaro, this production of ANNIE will be a brand new incarnation of the iconic original.

Held at Barbara B. Mann, 13350 Edison Parkway, Ft. Myers. Call 239481-4849 or check www.bbmannpah.com for additional information.

11 Wednesday 10:00 AM. Senior Expo. Exhibits offered from Health Care to Personal Care for seniors. Come join the exhibitors and learn the newest information from Health Care professionals, and all other types of professionals. Businesses booking a spot, please contact the Golden Gate Community Center at 239-252-4180.

4:00 PM. 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 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-455-8088 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

MCNA and CMS insurance accepted.

Eisa Lindner

A Women’s Specialty Practice

5:00 PM. Open House at Montessori Academy of Naples.

Come tour the school, no appointment necessary. Talk with staff and get answers to your questions about Montessori, programs offered at Montessori Academy of Naples, facilities, and admissions.

Located at 2659 Professional Circle, Naples. Call 239-597-2255 or check www.naplesmontessori.org for additional information.

Offering: • Hot Stone Massage • Reflexology • Tuning Forks in a warm, nurturing environment

12 Thursday 10:00 AM. Little Explorers Pre-K Program at the Conservancy. The program, designed for children age 18 months

to 5 years old, allows children to explore nature and discover amazing animals. The Conservancy Nature Center at 1495 Smith Preserve Way in Naples. The Little Explorer Play Zone is in the Ferguson Learning Labs, inside the Coffin-Williams Room. For additional information call 239-262-0304 or visit www.conservancy.org.

3:30 PM. Valentine Craft at Golden Gate Library. Join us for Valentine fun. We will make a variety of heart- shaped crafts and enjoy some refreshments. Grades K through 5. Registration required. Located at 2432 Lucerne Road, Naples. Call 239-252-4542 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

5:30 PM. Valentine Craft at Immokalee Library. Join us for NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

February 2015.indd 31

LMT, CPMT

Now offering PEDIATRIC MASSAGE!

MA47189 MM23779

(239) 595-4073 neafamily.com

31

1/23/15 7:07 PM

Valentine fun. We will make a variety of heart- shaped crafts and enjoy some refreshments. Grades K through 5. Registration required.

Located at 417 North First Street, Immokalee. Cal 239-657-2882 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

6:00 PM. CCPS Virtual Town Hall. The meeting will take place at the MLK School Administrative Center (5775 Osceola Trail, Naples) with telecast locations at Immokalee Technical Center (508 North 9th Street, Immokalee) and Everglades City School (415 School Drive, Everglades City). For additional information please call 239-377-0180.

13 Friday 5:30 PM. Parents’ Night Out at My Gym. Parents have a fun evening out while children have fun at My Gym. Perfect for children ages 2 years and up who are potty trained. Call 239-4316499 or check mygym.com/naples for additional information.

7:00 PM. Free Concerts at the Bandshell. Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park. Music Makers performs. For more information, call 239-213-3058. Located at 755 Eighth Avenue South, Naples.

10:30 AM. What’s Up Doc at Headquarters Library. Go on a journey through the body systems. The diminutive doctors will be creating a 2-D model of the body to learn about the respiratory, circulatory and digestive systems. Located at 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

2:00 PM. Chocolate Treats at Naples Regional Library. Make a Valentine card for someone special and guess the amount of kisses in the jar. Whoever comes the closest takes it home. Located at 650 Central Avenue, Naples. Call 239-262-6853 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

2:00 PM. Famous Black Floridians Lecture at GG Library. The first officially recognized free black settlement in the New World was located just outside St. Augustine. Many educators, businessmen, politicians, activists and entertainers were of African heritage and major players throughout Florida’s history. Join us as we look at some of the more significant people who left their mark on their home state of Florida. Ages 13 to adult are invited to attend this lecture. Located at 2432 Lucerne Road, Naples. Call 239-252-4542 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

6:00 PM. 4th & 5th Grade Dance at Golden Gate Community Center. Dance the night away with current music and disco lighting.

Located at the Golden Gate Community Center, 4th and 5th graders can join us for $10 a child. Pizza and a drink are included. You can get your tickets 2 weeks prior to dance at the Golden Gate Community Center. Space is limited so get your tickets now. For more info call 239-252-4180 or visit our website at www.collierparks.com.

6:00 PM. Golden Gate Community Center Dance. Open to grades 4 and 5. $10. Located at 4701 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples. Call 239252-4180 or check http://colliergov.net for additional information.

6:00 PM. Celebration of Reading. For the 15th consecutive year, Gov. Jeb Bush brings the Florida Celebration of Reading event to Southwest Florida to raise funds for the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy, which helps children and parents learn to read together through innovative family literacy and teen mentoring programs. For tickets or sponsorship information

32

neafamily.com

February 2015.indd 32

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

1/23/15 7:07 PM

for the 2015 Celebration of Reading, contact Tina Matte, event coordinator, at 239-277-6295 or visit www.BarbaraBush.org.

7:00 PM. Vineyards Community Park Daddy/Daughter Valentine’s Dance. Treat your special girl to a semi-formal evening out with Daddy. There will be a DJ, snacks and lots of dancing! Pre registration required. $15/$5. Located at 6231 Arbor Rd, Naples. Call 239363-9669 or check http://colliergov.net for additional information.

14 Saturday 9:00 AM. Clyde Butcher Annual Lectures and Swamp Walk.

You won’t want to miss the annual President’s Day Weekend celebrations at Big Cypress Gallery. Keynote presentation by Clyde and Niki Butcher each day at 9:30am. Join the Butchers in their gallery each day 11:00am-5:00pm for gallery tours and book signing. Swamp walks all day from 9am-2pm leaving each hour. Located at 52388 Tamiami Trail, Ochopee. Call 239-695-2428 for additional information.

9:00 AM. Jammin’ in the Hammock Bluegrass Festival.

For lineup of entertainment check www.floridastateparks.org. $20 pp per day or $30 pp for 2 days. Children under 13 free (with paid adult). Held at Collier-Seminole State Park, 20200 Tamiami Trail East, Naples. Runs through Sunday, February 15.

10:00 AM. Art in the Park at Koreshan State Park. Local artists will display and sell various forms of unique artwork and crafts in the historic settlement. Art of all sorts of mediums will be available along with food and beverage. Public entrance will be the normal park entry fee. Park entrance fee: $2 for walk or bike in, $4 for single occupant vehicle, $5 for 2 – 8 occupants vehicle, $2 each additional person over 8 per vehicle. Located at 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero. Call 239-9920311 or check www.floridastateparks.org for additional information.

10:00 AM. Crafter’s Choice Valentine Workshop at Headquarters Library. Stop by and make a variety of valentines.

All ages. Registration is not required. Located at 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

10:00 AM. Fine Art and Craft Show. Naples Artcrafters is an association of artists and craft artisans that sponsors a juried Fine Art and Craft Show every month from October through April. Located at 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-213-3058 for additional information.

11:00 AM. I Love you Just Like This! Valentine Story at Barnes and Noble. Join us for Valentine’s Day Storytime and activities featuring I Love You Just Like This! There are many ways to say “I love you” - and Elmo and his Sesame Street friends are ready to tell you. Located at 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 or check http://bn.com for additional information.

12:00 PM. Valentine Creations at Bonita Springs Library. Design original Valentine art. For grades 6-12. Located at 26876 Pine Avenue, Bonita Springs. Call 239-992-0101 for additional information.

1:00 PM. Valentine’s Day Cookie Decorating at Miromar Outlets.

Come decorate a heart shaped cookie for Valentine’s in MundoFox Playland. Located at 10801 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Call 239-9483766 or check www.miromaroutlets.com for additional information.

2:00 PM. Venetian Valentine. Enjoy live entertainment and a complimentary sweetheart photo op as you take advantage of a romantic evening of shopping and dining by the water with twinkling bay lights. Located at 4200 Gulf Shore Blvd North, Naples. Call 239-261NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

February 2015.indd 33

neafamily.com

33

1/23/15 7:07 PM

February Picks L C IN EE OUNTY

6100 or check www.venetianvillage.com for additional information.

7:00 PM. Love is in the Air Concert. Love is in the Air as virtuoso violinist, Isabelle Durrenberger performs Camille SaintSaens’, Concerto #3. Held at 1 Lely High Blvd, Naples. Check www.naplesorchestraandchorus.org for additional information.

15 Sunday Call for time. Edison Festival of Lights Junior Events. Edison Festival of Light’s junior events kick off with a Junior Run downtown beginning at 1 p.m. Open to fifth-graders and younger, the race runs for one mile and less, depending on age group. Fort Myers Track Club supervises the event, which charges a $5 entry fee (includes T-shirt and ribbon).

Spectators can attend for free. The 67th annual Junior Parade follows the Run beginning at 2:30 p.m., featuring more than 100 floats, bands, and costumed troupes, in imitation of the Edison Grand Parade. The crowning of the Junior King & Queen winds up the afternoon at 4 p.m. in the Harborside Event Center. Cost for parade and coronation are free. Go to http://edisonfestival.org for all event information.

8:00 AM. GWFC Naples Women’s Annual Flea Market. Every year, the GFWC Naples Woman’s Club opens our doors — and our parking lot — to host an incredible Flea Market. Call it a yardsale, a garage-sale, a flea market or an indoor/outdoor shopping extravaganza…just make sure you don’t miss this annual event.

Get additional information at: http://www.fifthavenuesouth.com/ gfwc-naples-womens-annual-flee-market/#sthash.ZJzAeQQH.dpuf.

SW Florida Twins Youth Clinics Various locations in Lee County February 7 & 14

The free clinics offer youth throughout Southwest Florida the opportunity to learn more about the games of baseball and softball.

Twins instructors will use drills to teach the fundamentals of throwing, hitting and fielding at each clinic. Open to children ages 6-16 and younger children who are accompanied by an adult. www.twinsbaseball.com

Edison Festival of Light Junior Parade Downtown Fort Myers Sunday, February 15 • 2:30pm 239-334-2999

Edison Festival of Light Grand Parade Downtown Fort Myers Saturday, February 21• 7pm 239-334-2999

Annie

Barbara B, Mann Performing Arts Hall 13350 Edison Parkway, Fort Myers February 10 - 15

ANNIE includes such unforgettable songs as "It's the Hard Knock Life," "Easy Street," "I Don't Need Anything But You," plus the eternal anthem of optimism, "Tomorrow."

239-481-4849

Southwest Florida and Lee County Fair Lee Civic Center Grounds, 11831 Bayshore Rd, North Fort Myers February 26 through March 8 239-543-8368

LEE COUNTY’S ORIGINAL FAMILY PUBLICATION FOR 24 YEARS!!

www.leefamilynews.net 34

neafamily.com

February 2015.indd 34

11:00 AM. Health-Safety Day & Open House at Temple Shalom Preschool. An activity packed day program educating children about health and safety. Children will enjoy seeing fire trucks up close and personal. EMT and their ambulances will be on hand, and the police department will be there with their mascot, McGruff the Crime Dog, teaching the children about combating crime in the area.

Water safety, a major concern for parents in the area, is reinforced.

Located at 4630 Pine Ridge Road, Naples. Call 239-455-3227 or check www.naplestemple.org/study/preschool/ for additional information.

16 Monday 2:00 PM. Something’s Fishy at South County Regional Library.

A discussion of fish anatomy followed by the creation of fish prints.

Participants may bring a plain t-shirt to print on if desired, in lieu of paper printing. Presented by Imaginarium. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239- 479-4636 for additional information.

17 Tuesday 4:00 PM. Chocolate Lover’s Party at Vanderbilt Library. Join us for a sweet afternoon of edible crafts made from chocolate, chocolate and more chocolate! Ages 6-11 years. Registration required. Located at 788 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. Call 239-597-8444 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

6:30 PM. Mardi Gras on Fifth. Mardi Gras Evening on 5th will feature an array of live musical performances throughout the sidewalk areas of 5th Avenue South. Dress up in fun costumes, wear loads of Mardi Gras Beads and come to 5th for a fun evening. See more at: www.fifthavenuesouth.com/mardi-gras-evening-on-fifth-2/#sthash.zBFtRoN5.dpuf

18 Wednesday NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

1/24/15 10:50 AM

18 Wednesday 6:30 PM. Astronomy Family Program at South County Library.

Astronomer Kevin Manning presents an exciting family program for all ages about the universe from the very large to the very small. The program will wrap up under the stars, where patrons can view celestial objects through a high-powered telescope. Objects that may be seen include the rings of Saturn, moon craters, and many more. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239- 479-4636 for additional information.

19 Thursday 1:00 PM. Kids Critter Craft Day. Fun animal-themed crafts at Planet Tails. $10 each child, reservations suggested. Located at 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 124, Naples. Call 239-2933513 or check /www.planettails.com for additional information.

5:30 PM. Chinese New Year. Wear red and come celebrate the Year of the Sheep. Ping Chen will teach all about the customs of the New Year celebration and we will hear stories, make a craft and have a treat.

A family event recommended for children ages 3-10 years and an adult.

Located at 210 S. Heathwood Drive, Marco Island. Call 239-3943272 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

20 Friday 5:30 PM. Parents’ Night Out at My Gym. Parents have a fun evening out while children have fun at My Gym. Perfect for children ages 2 years and up who are potty trained. Call 239-4316499 or check mygym.com/naples for additional information.

6:30 PM. Cinderella. Children For The Arts’ After-School Theatre Troupe will present the production of the timeless classic, Cinderella, a musical. Admission is $5 for children (ages 3 and up) and $10 for adults. Call 239-571-3305 for additional information. Located at 1515 Pine Ridge Road, Naples.

8:00 PM. Into the Woods by CFABS Teen Players. The Brothers Grimm “go Broadway” as Sondheim and Lapine offer up a cockeyed fairy tale in this adaptation of one of Sondheim’s most popular works. All of your favorite characters—Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack (and his beanstalk), and the Witch—meet and interact in this whimsical original story. Refreshments including beer and wine available. For further information call 239-495-8989 or visit www.artcenterbonita.org.

WHERE SOMETHING IS ALWAYS HAPPENING

21 Saturday Call for time. Edison Festival Light 5K Run. Call for time. Over the years, the Edison Festival 5K Run has gained international notoriety.

More than 1,400 participants and thousands of spectators take over the streets of the Downtown River District. Register your team for this 3.1-mile race for fun and a chance to win cash prizes. The professional event is coordinated f by the Fort Myers Track Club and includes chip timing and an after-event awards program. www.edisonfestival.org.

Glow Bowling Family Special Group Functions

Sundays 5-9PM

10:00 AM. Naples National Art Festival. The Naples National Art Festival is consistently voted among the top 25 art festivals in the country by Sunshine Artist Magazine. For more information: www.fifthavenuesouth. com/36th-annual-naples-national-art-festival/#sthash.ynrNJCvs.dpuf 11:00 AM. Click, Clack, Peep! Storytime at Barnes and Noble. Join us for Storytime and activities featuring Click, Clack, Peep! From the award-winning creator of Click, Clack, Moo comes an adorable story of NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

February 2015.indd 35

Birthday Parties Great Menu So Much More!

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.

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

Beacon Bowl N. Tamiami Tr. Naples 597-3452

www.bowlandcenters.com

neafamily.com

35

1/23/15 7:07 PM

W NO

En

g

in

ll ro

16

20 15-

20 S

o ch

Temple Shalom Preschool

r fo

Ye ol

ar

Planting the Seeds in the Minds of our Future

the TSP experience

Exceptional Education for ages 2 - 5

Fully licensed with outstanding staff

Grow and learn academically, socially & spiritually welcoming all faiths FFF Curriculum includes technology, science, music, art, movement, storytelling & foreign language FFF State-of-the-art Tech Lab, Science Lab & Storyland Library FFF Covered playground plus indoor gym

Early drop-off & late pick-up available

OPEN FOR SUMMER! Camp Shalom & Camp Ei n s t e i n “You feel the energy of the entire school and program through your child’s eye, and you can hear it in their voice.

It’s the ‘TSP Experience’, the stepping-stones of growth and preparedness, that creates strength, courage and most importantly, confidence.”

Gina Paddock, Proud TSP Parent

TempleShalomPreschool.org

239-455-3227

4630 Pine Ridge Road 36

neafamily.com

February 2015.indd 36

i Naples,

FL 34119 NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

1/23/15 7:07 PM

a cute little duckling that won’t quiet down! Located at 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 for additional information.

1:00 PM. Kids Critter Craft Day. Fun animal-themed crafts at Planet Tails. $10 each child, reservations suggested. Located at 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 124, Naples. Call 239-2933513 or check /www.planettails.com for additional information.

www.oursaviornaples.org 1955 Curling Avenue, Naples, Florida 34109

1:30 PM. Pups ‘n’ Books at Headquarters Regional Library.

Stop by to read to a dog or just to pet one. Dogs provided by PAWS Assistance and Therapy Dogs. All ages. Registration is not required.

Located at 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

(South of Sam’s Club)

1:30 PM. Pups and Books at East Naples Library. PAWS Assistance Dogs are coming to the library! Stop by to read to a dog or just to pet one.

Children of all ages are welcome. Registration is not required for this program. Located at 8787 Tamiami Trail East, Naples. Call 239-7755592 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

(239) 597-6009 Florida VPK Provider Fall & Summer Preschool Programs For children 3-6 years old License: C20CO6430

2:00 PM. Author Signing: Puppy’s Big Day at Barnes and Noble.

Nick Bruel discusses and signs Puppy’s Big Day, the latest installment of the ‘Bad Kitty’ series. In this book, Bad Kitty’s drooling, happy canine sibling has a tale of his own. Bruel’s writing is hilarious and his illustrations make the story complete. Located at 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. VCall 239-597-2040 for additional information.

3:00 PM. A Global Celebration. This is a family friendly event with international food and drink samplings, crafts & activities plus entertainment. Located at 180 South Heathwood Drive, Marco Island. Call 239-642-1440 for additional information.

3:00 PM. Kids Fun Day and Pizza Party. Come enjoy an awesome afternoon of fun games, activities, and pizza! Exciting martial arts skills, fun obstacle course challenges, dodgeball challenges, and more - only $20. Please register in advance. Call 239-596-1633 or visit ImpactNaples.com. Located at 5926 Premier Way Unit 128, Naples.

22 Sunday

Parents’ Night Out! Friday, February 13th & 20th 5:30-9pm Perfect for children ages 2 years and up!

(Potty-trained only, please.)

2:00 PM. Free Concerts at the Bandshell. Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park. For more information, call 239-213-3058. Located at 755 Eighth Avenue South, Naples.

Call today to save your spot!

23 Monday 5:30 PM. Chocolate Creations at Naples Regional Library. Join us as we make and then eat tasty chocolate creations. Grades 3 and older. Registration required. Located at 650 Central Avenue, Naples. Call 239-2626853 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

6:30 PM. Discovery Reptiles at HQ Library. Check out this traveling zoo that specializes in rare and highly endangered species of reptiles. See and learn about giant lizards, large snakes, venomous scorpions and reptiles. Grades K through 5. Registration required.

Located at 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

7:00 PM. Free Concerts at the Bandshell. Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park. For more information, call 239-213-3058. Located at 755 Eighth Avenue South, Naples.

24 Tuesday Call for time. 11th Annual Marjory Stoneman Douglass Festival.

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

February 2015.indd 37

(239) 431-6499 mygym.com/naples St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School Making a World of Difference … One Child at a Time

PreK–3 thru 8th Grade Introduce your child to the time-honored traditions of a Catholic education • Florida certified teachers • Full classroom curriculum including Art, Spanish, Health, Language, Music & PE • Low student-teacher ratio • Secure facilities • Religious values, traditions, weekly Liturgies • State of the art technology • Extended care included in Pre-K 3 tuition

OPEN HOUSE JANUARY 25

239-455-2262 2730 53rd Terrace SW, Naples, FL • saintelizabethseton.com neafamily.com

37

1/23/15 7:07 PM

Immerse yourself in South Florida’s amazing River of Grass with this five-day offering of scientific talks, pioneer stories, photography displays and workshops, nature walks, canoe trips, and guided tours of the Everglades, Ten Thousand Islands, Big Cypress Swamp, and Fakahatchee Strand. The annual festival honors the remarkable life of author and champion of the Everglades, Marjory Stoneman Douglas. Reservations and fees for opening luncheon and some guided tours. For more information, call (239) 695-0008. Located at 105 Broadway West, Everglades City.

25 Wednesday 6:00 PM. Free Admission to The Baker Museum. Enjoy free admission to The Baker Museum the last Wednesday of each month from 6 to 9pm. A local band offers musical entertainment and audiences of all ages are welcome to view the galleries and learn from our docents. Located at 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples. Call 239-597-1900 for additional information.

26 Thursday Call for time. Southwest Florida and Lee County Fair. Runs through Sunday, March 9. The ever-popular Mega Pass is

on sale now, along with advanced gate admission tickets. Ticket information can be found at www.swflcfair.com. Located at Lee Civic Center, 11831 Bayshore Rd., Ft. Myers.

10:00 AM. Little Explorers Pre-K Program at the Conservancy. The program, designed for children age 18 months to 5 years old, allows children to explore nature and discover amazing animals. The Conservancy Nature Center at 1495 Smith Preserve Way in Naples. The Little Explorer Play Zone is in the Ferguson Learning Labs, inside the Coffin-Williams Room. For additional information call 239-262-0304 or visit www. conservancy.org.

27 Friday 10:30 AM. Explorations at HQ Library.

Preschool children will explore the concepts of matching, comparing and sorting through a variety of hands-on activities. Ages 18 months-5 years. Registration required. Located at 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples.

Call 239-593-0870 or check http://public. collier-lib.org for additional information.

28 Saturday

Golden Gate Community Center. This program is designed to let the general population buy or sell craft, or yard sale items. Must reserve spots at Golden Gate Community Center. Call 239-252-4180 for more information. Spots on sale now.

Located at 4701 Golden Gate Pkwy, Naples. Call 239-252-4180 or check http:// colliergov.net for additional information.

10:00 AM. Trucks, Trucks, Trucks at South Regional Library. The library parking lot will be filled with trucks of every shape and kind. Come talk to the operators, sit in the driver’s seat and experience all kinds of trucks up close and personal and then visit the Children’s Library for truck crafts and more. All ages. Registration is not required. Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check http://public. collier-lib.org for additional information.

11:00 AM. I am Rosa Parks at Barnes and Noble. In celebration of Black History Month, join us on February 28 at 11:00 am for a Storytime and activities featuring two notable figures with the titles I am Rosa Parks and I am Jackie Robinson. Located at 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 for additional information.

8:00 AM. Community Yard Sale at

Nicaea Academy is the best independent faith based school serving Naples, Bonita, Cape Coral, and surrounding areas!

Founded in 1996 by faith education missionaries, the Academy is an interdenominational, independent faith based school dedicated to providing our students with the winning tools necessary to build a firm foundation of academic and moral excellence.

Offering Daycare • Preschool • Pre-K • Elementary, Middle and High School QUALIFIED TEACHING STAFF, LOW CLASS SIZE AND POSITIVE CHRISTIAN

Get more info at

NicaeaAcademy.com

Nicaea Early Learning Academy • 14785 Collier Blvd., Naples, FL 34119 • 239-353-9099 Nicaea Early Learning Academy • 2200 Santa Barbara Blvd., Naples, FL 34116 • 239-455-9090

38

neafamily.com

February 2015.indd 38

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

1/23/15 7:08 PM

Enroll your Star in our award-winning Child’s Path Preschool today and receive a special discount!

Eva!!!

FisR$1E EreEceiK F W I R T S 0 7 lue. h ve t Me ad to ntion this

Child’s Path Preschool provides a creative and healthy learning environment for children ages 2-5. Services include kindergarten readiness, VPK and age appropriate behavioral tools that cultivate academic, social and emotional development for your young star provided by our experienced and nurturing staff.

Child’s Path’s educational philosophy is to give each child a positive experience where they can build a healthy self-esteem. Maybe that’s why our fun, hands-on approach to learning has been voted the Choice Star Award for “BEST PRESCHOOL” by the readers of Naples Daily News.

Enroll your child today to receive this special discount and start them on their path to success!

The Path to Success Begins Here!

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

February 2015.indd 39

ChildsPath.org 3144 Santa Barbara Blvd., Naples Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:30pm 239-353-4144 info@childspath.org

neafamily.com

39

1/23/15 7:08 PM

PRESCHOOL GUIDE The best preschools for Naples families!

Growing, Caring and Sharing 40

neafamily.com

February 2015.indd 40

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

1/23/15 7:08 PM

2015 PRESCHOOL GUIDE CEDAR MONTESSORI Cedar Montessori School was founded in 1984, based on Maria Montessori’s philosophy and natural stages of child development to be a partnership and extension of your home. Cedar Montessori offers infants through Kindergarten age children a fun and nurturing environment to explore and grow individually and independently. The spacious campus, located in a North Naples residential neighborhood, includes two large outdoor play yards, full and part-time sessions, before and after-care, an optional hot meal program, parent participation and veteran, highly qualified staff dedicated to your child’s early childhood experience. Cedar Montessori is a year round school.

10904 WINTERVIEW DR, NAPLES, FL 34109 (239) 597-7190 WWW.CEDARMONTESSORI. ORG CHILDREN’S MONTESSORI

V.P.K. integrated into the Extended Primary program. The school hours are from 8:00a.m.–5:00p.m.

2535 NORTHBROOKE PLAZA DR, NAPLES, FL 34119 (239) 593-6668 WWW.NAPLESMONTESSORI. ORG CHILD’S PATH PRESCHOOL Child’s Path is a 5 day-a-week preschool program for children ages 2 to 5 years old. The services provided include kindergarten readiness and teaching age appropriate social skills, behavioral tools and prevention activities. Child’s Path also offers the Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten Program (VPK) for children over 4 years old who are scheduled to attend kindergarten in the upcoming school year.

Child’s Path’s educational philosophy is to give each child a positive experience where they can build a healthy self-esteem by creating a fun, hands on approach to learning for the whole child that focuses on their social, emotional and physical well-being.

opment and of course, play. Part, full time and VPK programs are available.

868 94TH AVENUE NORTH, NAPLES FLORIDA 34108 (239) 597-5064 LITTLEPEOPLESSCHOOL.INFO MILESTONES LEARNING CENTER Milestones Learning Center focuses on assuring that children are safe, healthy and enjoying their day. The philosophy of the center is that the more fun a child is having the more engaged they will be and the more they will learn. Hands-on learning activities and messy play both inside and outside are encouraged. Specialized classrooms emphasize science/ math, art and language/dramatic play. The program allows for both full and part time care to meet the schedules of working parents. The staff are experienced and degreed.

19850 BRECKENRIDGE DRIVE, ESTERO, FL 33928 (239) 301-2962 WWW.MILESTONESESTERO.COM

3144 SANTA BARBARA BLVD. Children’s Montessori School is an NAPLES, FL 34116 early childhood preschool program (239) 353-4144 that incorporates the philosophy and MONTESSORI ACADEMY WWW.CHILDSPATH.ORG principles of Dr. Maria Montessori.

OF NAPLES The program encompasses the ideas LITTLE PEOPLE’S SCHOOL and philosophies of the American Montessori Academy of Naples offers Montessori Society. In the Montescomprehensive Montessori programs Little People’s School was founded sori environment children learn by for students ages 8-weeks to 15-years over 34 years ago by certified elemenexploring and discovering concepts tary teachers who were dedicated to old. The time-proven Montessori with “hands-on” manipulative equipthe education of young children. The method is evident in the carefully ment allowing the students to progstaff at LPS believes that children prepared, reality-based environments ress at their own pace. The Monlearn best when involved physically that foster independence and self-distessori Method develops the whole cipline, and encourage young hands and intellectually in their learning child, not just his intellectual faculties and minds to engage, experiment, environment. Students enjoy a small but also his powers of deliberation, and explore. The core of the seasoned child to teacher ratio which allows initiative and independent choice. and professional staff average over 15 children to have the optimal opporThe school was founded in 1998 by tunity to learn basic concepts in math years of Montessori classroom experiowner and director, Tracy Taylor ence and all staff maintain their proand literacy through age appropriate, and offers classes for children ages 18 fessional credentials. School snacks programs of art, science, literature, CEDR 1003 NeaFamily 1-4 pg Horiz.4_Layout 1 2/18/13 9:45 AM Page 1 months through Kindergarten with and lunches include farm-fresh fruits music, social studies, character devel-

I love my

Empowering and inspiring children to reach their potential with: - Programs for 6 months to 6 years of age with full or parttime days - Florida VPK programs & Private chef’s delicious full meal program - Residential campus setting with 2-large play yards and much more

Call today for a campus tour: 239-597-7190 www.cedarmontessori.org e-mail: office@cedarmontessori.org

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

February 2015.indd 41

and vegetables courtesy of the school’s student-run organic produce co-op.

School hours are from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. including early arrival and after school programs. VPK and summer programs are also available. The secure campus is conveniently located adjacent to Hodges University off Immokalee Road and I-75.

2659 PROFESSIONAL CIRCLE NAPLES, FL 34119 (239) 597-2255 WWW.NAPLESMONTESSORI. ORG NAPLES CHRISTIAN ACADEMY Preparing the young hearts, minds and hands of children to love, think and serve is the mission of Naples Christian Academy’s Preschool.

Through a strong partnership with Christian parents, the Academy’s preschool program sets the foundation for a successful educational journey.

To ensure that every child is interested, excited, and engaged in learning, the Academy uses a thematic curriculum approach that stresses exploration and creativity while incorporating a broad-based learning experience.

3161 SANTA BARBARA BLVD., NAPLES, FL 34116 (239) 455-1080 WWW.NAPLESCHRISTIAN.NET NAPLES PRESCHOOL ACADEMY Naples Preschool Academy offers a top notch facility where children learn, explore and excel while having fun in an extremely safe and secure environment. The Academy offers trained staff, ample room and stateof –the-art new indoor and outdoor playgrounds. The school is VPK certified and accepts School Readiness

the things he sees are not just remembered, they form a part of his soul.

Maria Montessori

inspiring the love of learning since 1984 neafamily.com

41

1/24/15 11:59 AM

2015 PRESCHOOL GUIDE children. Naples Preschool Academy celebrates their 12th anniversary in 2015.

1275 AIRPORT PULLING ROAD NAPLES, FL 34102 (239) 403-7977 WWW.NAPLESPRESCHOOL ACADEMY.COM OUR SAVIOR PRESCHOOL Our Savior Preschool teaches a blend of A Beka Book®, Creative Curriculum®, and Christ-Light® curriculums.

Preschool children will enjoy arts and crafts, computers, music, science, bounce houses, playgrounds with butterfly gardens, and much more in a caring Christian environment. Preschool programs for children ages 3-5 years old are available. Our Savior is a VPK Provider.

1955 CURLING AVE, NAPLES, FL 34109 (239) 597-6009 OURSAVIORNAPLES.ORG PRECIOUS CARGO ACADEMY Precious Cargo Academy sees early childhood education as the foundation to lifelong learning. PCA strives

to establish opportunities for play, cognitive development, laughter, and promoting social-emotional growth.

Through extensive research and adoption of the Creative Curriculum, Precious Cargo offers children the right balance of skills, intellect, and global awareness. The academy embraces the importance of balancing academics with children’s individual needs with the goal of teaching the “whole” child. Precious Cargo is an inclusive school welcoming all families. Teachers at Precious Cargo are supported by an administration passionate about education, and always available to offer support.

5200 CRAYTON ROAD NAPLES, FL 34103 (239)261-7442 WWW.PRECIOUSCARGOACADEMY.ORG

school welcomes families from all religious backgrounds and provides a nurturing environment where children grow and develop physically, socially, emotionally and cognitively.

Preschool of the Arts children learn science, math, social studies, literacy, the arts, Judaic studies and moral values through an integrated approach to education. Also offering music and movement, gymnastics, baking/ food preparation, computer time and Shabbat celebrations.

1789 MANDARIN RD, NAPLES, FL 34102 (239) 263-2620 WWW.NAPLESPRESCHOOLOF THEARTS.COM ST. ELIZABETH SETON CATHOLIC SCHOOL

PRESCHOOL OF THE ARTS Preschool of the Arts believes children are more productive and happy learners in a calm, comfortable and attractive space. Preschool of the Arts is a state-of-the-art facility in the heart of Naples that has rapidly grown into a warm community with a young and active spirit. The diverse, inclusive

Serving Pre-K 3 through eighth grade students since 1981, St. Elizabeth Seton is committed to focusing on the development of the whole child.

Featuring state-of-the-art technology, including a 1:1 iPad program, Seton provides a challenging, quality education. Consistently exceeding national education standards, Seton’s annual assessment tests place each child at least one year above their current grade level.

2730 53RD TERRACE SW NAPLES, FL 34116 WWW.SAINTELIZABETH SETON.COM 239.455.2262.

SMALL WORLD EARLY LEARNING CENTER It is the philosophy of Small World that early childhood be a time of fun, warmth, exploring and discovery. Preschool children are creative, and enthusiastic learners. The staff strives to nurture and encourage these qualities. Small World offers an atmosphere that promotes social, emotional, physical and intellectual growth and development of the child as a whole. The learning process is approached through an emergent curriculum education, which emphasizes the interests of the child. Small World Early Learning Center offers programs for children 6weeks-5 years.

The center is VPK certified, offering full day, half day, and partial week programs.

727 108TH AVENUE NAPLES, FL 34108 239-597-5748 WWW.SMALLWORLDNAPLES. COM

Providing Care for Infants, Toddlers, Preschool, and VPK New Hours: 7AM Until 6PM 

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



Instilling school preparedness through mathematics, science, literacy that enforces sight words, phonics, and letter recognition, and a Kindergarten Readiness Program for Parents



Field trips including: Barnes & Noble, The Artis Naples, The Children’s Museum, The Naples Zoo and the Naples Botanical Gardens



Separate outdoor play spaces for infants, toddlers, and preschool



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

Call today to schedule a tour! 239-261-7442 PHONE Precious Cargo Academy, a Mission of Naples United Church of Christ WEBSITE: Preciouscargoacademy.org 42

neafamily.com

February 2015.indd 42

EMAIL: office@preciouscargoacademy.org NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

1/24/15 12:00 PM

25

ENROLLMENT

SPECIAL!

E $ MENT FupEon ENROLmL ention this co OFF When you

NOW ACCEPTING SUMMER VPK 2535 Northbrooke Plaza Dr. Naples, FL 34119 (Across from Super Target)

(239) 593-6668 www.childmont.com License # C20CO0018

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

February 2015.indd 43

neafamily.com

43

1/23/15 7:08 PM

2015 PRESCHOOL GUIDE TEMPLE SHALOM PRESCHOOL Temple Shalom Preschool has been distinguished for many years as a top preschool in Naples. Programs are offered for children ages birth to age 5 and are top-quality, dedicated to preparing a firm foundation for students entering kindergarten and successive school years. Beginning with its “Baby and Me” and “Mommy, Me, and More” programs, children begin their formative years in a safe, wholesome, academically challenging environment, conducive to promoting self-esteem, confidence, and individuality. Its dedicated and well-trained staff provides a caring and loving atmosphere in which each child flourishes and grows to meet his or her full potential. Enrichment in science, art, technology, storytelling, puppetry, drama, gardening/ nutrition, music, fitness, and foreign language is offered. General sign-up becomes available as space permits to the public once current families have had a chance to enroll their children.

4630 PINE RIDGE ROAD NAPLES, FL 34116 (239) 455-3227

WWW.NAPLESTEMPLE.ORG

WWW.VPCNAPLES.ORG

VANDERBILT PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH LEARNING CENTER

WINDMILL CREEK ACADEMY

The philosophy of VPCLC is that young children develop their abilities best in a warm, caring and loving atmosphere. Stages of development follow one another in an orderly progression, and this progression moves forward at different rates for different children. VPCLC allows for the individuality of each child in order to build positive attitudes toward self, others and learning. Through play children expand their language skills, formulate theories, solve problems and develop curiosity. At VPCLC children are presented with opportunities to choose freely among activities including creative art, language activities, science and nature, music, blocks and building materials, dramatic play and others. VPCLC strives to provide an enriching program in a Christian setting to all children, regardless of race, religion, creed or national origin.

1225 PIPER BLVD., NAPLES, FL 34110 (239) 597-5410, EXT. 302

Windmill Creek Academy has been awarded “Best Child Care” by the Naples Daily News for the last six years.The school accepts infants through children five years of age.

The campus library has over 1500 books, the pre-K 3s and 4s enjoy computer classes, and weekly “Music and Movement” classes are also included in tuition. The school boasts a large, tree-lined playground complete with five slides and a tire swing.

Windmill Creek is VPK certified and graduates typically score high on Kindergarten readiness testing.

2682 SOUTH HORSESHOE COURT NAPLES, FLORIDA 34104 (239) 434-5439 WINDMILLCREEKACADEMY. COM

engaging, fun, safe, educational structured environment to grow and learn through play. The Voluntary PreKindergarten program for four year olds is rated in the top 95 percentile in Collier County. School readiness is a part of the Y program to help children develop skills and knowledge to be successful in school. The YMCA’s Early Childhood Development Center emphasizes the creative curriculum in literacy, fine motor, gross motor, language and cognitive skills. The teacher to child ratio is lower than state requirements, which allow teachers to give more attention to children and help them achieve milestones. The Y’s character values of caring, honesty, respect, responsibility and healthy living are all a part of the daily routine.

5450 YMCA ROAD, NAPLES FLORIDA 34109 (239) 597-5437 GREATERNAPLESYMCA.ORG

YMCA CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER The YMCA Early Childhood Development Center offers children ages three months to five years of age an

CHECK NEAFAMILY.COM FOR UPDATED PRESCHOOL INFORMATION THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

Ages 18 months to 5 years old Hours: 9am-3pm | Extended hours available Two, three, four and five day programs. Full and half day availability.

Celebrating children’s creativity through performing arts, visual arts, culinary arts, and music, encouraging healthy physical exercise and yoga.

Nurturing the values of compassion, respect, tolerance, friendship, community responsibility and character development.

Professional, dedicated and loving teachers.

Brand new state-of-the-art facility, playground and security system.

Promoting school readiness in literacy, the sciences, and mathematics.

Proud to be the only certified Eco-Healthy preschool in Naples. provider

voted #1 childcare three years in a row!!

For more info call 263-2620 or email naplespreschoolofthearts@gmail.com www.naplespreschoolofthearts.com License #C20CO0076

44

neafamily.com

February 2015.indd 44

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

1/24/15 12:00 PM

Naples Preschool Academy Top Early Learning Center

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

• 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

VPK Certified

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

(conveniently located near Collier County Courthouse)

(239) 403-7977

www.NaplesPreschoolAcademy.com

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

… fostering a lifelong joy of learning and an education for life Infant • Toddler Children’s House • VPK Elementary • Adolescent Open to ages 8 weeks to 15 years

Call 239-597-2255 or visit our website at www.naplesmontessori.org

2659 Professional Circle, Suite 1118 Naples, Florida 34119 License #C20CO0026

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

February 2015.indd 45

neafamily.com

45

1/23/15 7:09 PM

FOR MORE INFORMATION: CHILD CARE SERVICES

Play and Education Masters Degree CPR, First Aid Certified Clean driving and FBI record

Windmill Creek Ac a d e m y Six Weeks - 5 Year Olds Open Year Round 7:00 am - 6:00 pm 1000s of Books Music Classes Included!

Children’s Birthday

Six Years

Hour/Day/Overnight

Ms. Lorel 514-5099

is happy to introduce a complete

“Best Child Care”

Package!!!

in a Row

(239) 434-5439

www.windmillcreekacademy.com

ABC Swim School

We will furnish:

18 Holes of Golf Plates, forks, napkins & candles Tables & Chairs Drinks: Coke, Sprite, etc.

Survival Swimming for Babies & Toddlers

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

Only $10.00 per person Bi (the Birthday Child is Free and gets 1 year of free golf) These figures are based upon a minimum of 10 people. We will require 10 days notice.

Thank you!

239-272-0529

2205 E. Tamiami Trail Naples, FL 34112

www.abcswimschool.com PediaSwim & WSI/CPR certified

Robert Hollister, REALTOR® COMMITTED • CARING • EXPERT

(239) 793-4999 www.coralcaygolf.com

Swim Lessons Group/Private/ Your Home or Mine

Red Cross Instructor Lifeguard/CPR/1st Aid

Lessons for all ages!

Specializing in frightened swimmers

RobertHollisterHomes.com 239.250.6113

Each ofce is independently owned and operated.

NIGHT NANNIES OF NAPLES

offers an overnight nanny service within the comfort of your home.

Specializing in care of newborns.

Nursery duties performed.

Sleep training offered.

WE H TEAC S! LT ADU

Collier County References Available

25 years experience

joannpiano @gmail.com

239-465-8602

The weekend is coming.

Will your kids be bored?

Not if we can help it!

Neapolitan Family’s Weekly E-News puts an end to weekend boredom.

Find the best bets for family entertainment, sports, outdoors, and nonprofit events.

SIGN UP TODAY AT neafamily.com

46

neafamily.com

February 2015.indd 46

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

1/23/15 7:09 PM

We’ve taken cleaning to a whole new level...

SERVICES AVAILABLE Home & Office Cleaning

MaidPro MUSCLE Services

plus

Not your standard cleaners

NOW OFFERING!

• Damage and theft protection? You got it.

MaidPro MUSCLE Services

• Employee backgrounds? Checked.

• Knowledgeable cleaners? MaidPro University Grads.

• Immediately Dry & Green Carpet Cleaning

• Cleaning contracts? Don’t need ‘em.

• Upholstery

• Satisfaction? Guaranteed.

• Tile & Grout

• Owner Recognition? Michelle Spitzer recipient of Hodges University’s Founders Award.

• Pressure Washing

75 off

$

CLEANING SERVICES

$25 OFF YOUR 1ST, 3RD & 5TH CLEANING

plus up to

• Window Cleaning

125 off

$

$25 OFF EACH INDIVIDUAL MaidPro MUSCLE SERVICE

MaidPro MUSCLE SERVICES

Offer cannot be combined with other offers.

contact us for your free estimate

239.596.5200 maidpro.com Servicing Marco Island, Naples, Bonita Springs and Fort Myers Area

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

February 2015.indd 47

neafamily.com

47

1/23/15 7:09 PM

Little Explorer

PLayZone

48

neafamily.com

February 2015.indd 48

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2015

1/23/15 7:09 PM