Emerald Coast Parent Magazine July+August 2016 by Rob Williams

parent Emerald Coast Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Your MagazineTM

MAKING THE OF

LIFE

ON THE

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MOST

COAST

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July+August 2016

contents

15 32 INSIDE THIS ISSUE

FAMILY BUILDERS

Best Summer Ever

Family Chatter..................................................................... 26 That’s Good to Know!....................................................... 28 Show Her You Care, Show Him You Care........ 29-30 Teach Your Kids Something New..................................32 Snacks—Recipes for tasty get-togethers................. 37 Crafts—Get creative with your kids.............................40

Nine Ways to Amp Up the Creative Family Fun

9 Making the Most of Summer

Summer Camp Offers Many CharacterBuilding Experiences for Kids of Any Age

Moving to a New Town

Eight Tips to Help Children Adjust

YOUR FAMILY’S HEALTH

Living life to its fullest begins with staying healthy, fit and safe. Sun Safety for Kids of All Ages.......................................21 What’s the Big Sweat About Dehydration?............. 22

15 Go Outside and Play

15 Old-Fashioned Activities

Family FUN GUIDE

Teen Talk

Helpful Advice from One Teen to Another

Spark up some lively conversation with your kids. Take the FamilyChatter Challenge.

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Get to know the people, places and things that make this coast special!

Seasonal Events..................................................................44 The Arts...................................................................................44 Sounds Fun............................................................................44 Runs, Walks & Golf..............................................................45 Recurring Local................................................................... 46 Volunteer................................................................................ 46

26 FamilyChatter 6/28/16 3:34 PM

parent Emerald Coast It’s Your MagazineTM

Welcome to Emerald Coast Parent magazine. We like to consider this your magazine. We look forward to hearing from local readers like you on a regular basis. Let us know how we might be able to participate in the continued improvement of this beautiful area where we all live and work. As busy parents ourselves, we place a high value on spending quality time with our children and are always looking for fun crafts, recipes, events and outing opportunities to add to our family calendars. If you have fun, easy and cost-effective ideas that you'd like to share with our community of readers, please feel free to email them to us at info@itsyourmagazine.com. Your ideas might just end up being featured in an upcoming issue! Here's a list of things we'd love to receive from you: • Personal stories and pictures of you and your family out and about, enjoying a favorite local attraction, restaurant or event • Recommendations and endorsements of local stores, services and restaurants • Ideas for fun crafts • Your family’s favorite recipes Let’s make this a great local magazine, together! Thanks, The EC Parent Team

To advertise in Emerald Coast Parent, contact Nathan Wilson: nathanwilson@itsyourmagazine.com Phone: 503-710-1720

Publisher Nathan Wilson Creative Director Rob Williams Snacks & Crafts Editor Tasha Williams © 2015 It’s Your Magazine. All rights reserved. Emerald Coast Parent content may not be used or reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopy, without the express written permission of the publisher. Emerald Coast Parent is not responsible for the loss of or damage to unsolicited manuscripts, unsolicited artwork or any other unsolicited material. Unsolicited material will not be returned. It’s Your Magazine and its affiliates, contributors, writers, editors and publisher accept no responsibility for errors or omissions with information and/or advertisements contained herein. It’s Your Magazine’s liability in the event of an error is limited to a printed correction. It’s Your Magazine does not assume liability for products or services advertised herein and assumes no responsibility for claims made by the advertisers.

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BEST SUMM NINE WAYS TO AMP UP THE CREATIVE FAMILY FUN By Christina Katz

Are you simultaneously excited about and dreading the approach of summer? If so, you might want to start preparing now to make the most of all of the unstructured, non-scheduled time your kids will soon be spending at home—or summer may not end up nearly as relaxing for you as it is for your kids! Take a cue from “The Artful Parent” blogger Jean Van’t Hul. She says, “When a child explores, learns, and creates, the side effect is often a mess. To say no to the messes inhibits the exploration and the creativity that can take place. That should take place. It’s a child’s job to explore the world around him, to experience it and learn as much about it as possible. If the adults in his world continually say, ‘don’t make a mess, be quiet, sit down, be still, leave that alone, do it this way, color within the lines, don’t get your clothes dirty,’ that

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inhibits the exploration and the learning.” To make sure you are ready for a summer that is as creative as it is easy, take a few tips from this list. You’ll be ready to squeeze as much fun as you can out of every lazy summer day.

Test-drive the Art Supplies Where do you keep your arts and craft supplies? If stored where they are easy to access, your kids will be more likely to use them. Give your arts and crafts storage area a quick overhaul before the vacation months arrive. Check markers. Sharpen pencils. Melt old crayons into new bigger ones. Restock your finger paint and drawing pads. Get enough clipboards or pads for each member of the family. Whatever kinds of projects your family likes to indulge in, make sure you have all the supplies on hand and ready to roll!

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MER EVER: Plenty of Places to Brainstorm We have an assortment of whiteboards around the house that absorb an awful lot of creative energy. My eight-year-old daughter kneels in front of the one in her bedroom when she wants to draw picture after picture after picture. I use one in my office to catch ideas as they go flitting by or to jot down a few professional to-dos. And believe it or not, if I write down the family chores on the whiteboard in the kitchen, I’m more likely to get the cooperation from the rest of the family when I need it, so we can all get back to playing.

Become Project-oriented Creating a garden, a tree house, or a worm box are all examples of outdoor projects the family can undertake together this summer. If you have a rainy day or prefer to stay indoors, why not get

a jump on next season’s holiday gifts or cards? If everyone in the house prefers to work on his or her own projects at his or her own pace, why not make sure that each person has their own craft area, where they can leave a project out while it’s in progress, until it’s completed. You’ll find that projects are more likely to get finished when they are easily accessible.

Bring On the Color Painting your walls, your furniture, your fence or your home is one of the cheapest and most fun ways to get a fresh look at home. Why not get the whole family involved? Even a toddler can paint primer on a wall. Tweens and teens might enjoy the sense of accomplishment that comes from getting an entire house painted. Mom and Dad can swing in a hammock and sip a cold drink while each Continued on page 8

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Continued from page 7

school-aged child paints one piece of furniture from their bedrooms a favorite new hue.

Garden with Themes Why have a common garden when you could have a fairy garden or a pizza garden or a found-objects garden? For ideas and inspiration, consult the illustrated gardening books for children by author Sharon Lovejoy: Roots, Shoots, Buckets & Boots (Workman 1999), Trowel & Error (Workman 2002), and Toad Cottages & Shooting Stars (Workman 2010). Why not give each member of the family their own garden plot so they can nurture the harvest of their choice?

Take an Unexpected Adventure When you set out as a family towards an unfamiliar destination, your senses come alive with possibilities. Instead of planning every summer family outing, why not just grab some snacks and water bottles, hop in the car, and surprise yourselves? Perhaps there is a city nearby you can explore. Perhaps you are just an hour from a state park or wildlife sanctuary. Target a quaint small town you can traverse from end to end on foot. Keep an ongoing list of destinations on one of your whiteboards, take a quick family vote to decide on one, and you’re off!

Host a Backyard Extravaganza Older children might like to put on plays or puppet shows for younger children in the summer. Why not let them play the roles of producer, director, marketing spokesperson, etc., and get the whole neighborhood involved? Fun can really start to catalyze when you pool the neighborhood dress-up clothes, create an impromptu story, and start casting parts—even if only to while away a long afternoon.

Get a Little Wild Maybe during the school year you don’t welcome the extra mess that body paint, mud, glitter, bathtub crayons, clay, or temporary hair dyes can bring into your hallowed home. But during the summer months, why not? Kids experience a lot of pressure to conform when they are in school, so let them get wild while the days are long, the nights are short, and homework is nothing more than a distant memory.

Make Multimedia Memories Keep a camera or a video recorder handy so you can document your colorful, creative summer and share it with your distant friends and relatives. And don’t worry about what to do with all your images and film clips. The long cold winter is coming just as sure as you are fully enjoying every minute of your fleeting summer. You’ll be so happy making memories that neighbors you haven’t seen in ages may invite themselves over to join the fun. Happy creative summer, everyone! v Myrna Beth Haskell is a freelance writer who loves summer family fun. Her latest book is The Art of Making Time for Yourself, A Collection of Advice for Moms. 8 • July+August 2016 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

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By Gayla Grace

Making the Most of Summer Summer camp offers all kinds of fun and character-building experiences for kids of any age. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for a few hours of entertainment or weeks of intentional skill-building for your child, you can find it at camp.

AGES 0 - 5 Day camps offer the perfect opportunity for young kids to experience time away from Mom and explore new activities. Camp for preschool children focuses on free play, sharing with others, group games (inside and outside), and simple arts and crafts. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re

sending your child to camp for the first time, make sure the schedule matches her personality and routine to prevent a stressful experience. Does there need to be naptime? Should your child be potty trained to attend? Would your child adjust more easily by starting with a half-day camp instead of full day? Are there appropriate breaks for snacks and changes in activity? Continued on page 12

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MOVING TO A NEW TOWN: By Gayla Grace

EIGH T TIPS TO HEL P CHI LDR EN ADJ UST

“The job I’ve been offered is in another state.” My husband’s words to our nine-year-old son brought tears to my eyes. Nathan had lived in the same town, the same neighborhood, and the same house since he’d been born. Moving wasn’t an option he or I would have chosen. Yet after my husband’s job loss several months prior, we made a hard decision to relocate for his new job. Continued on page 13 ItsYourMagazine.com • EC Parent Magazine • July+August 2016 • 11

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fit, try a different one next year. But don’t give up on the beauty and benefits of camp for elementary-aged children. Continued from page 9

AGES 12 - 15

It’s important to find out what the counselor-to-camper ratio is for children this age. You want to ensure your child will be adequately cared for with a friendly, well-staffed team. You also want to determine if the counselors are trained to help with issues common to preschoolers, including separation anxiety, potty training, and temper tantrums.

Tweens and teens have better focus than younger children and benefit from camps that more closely match their interests and personalities. Sports and music camps are great for this age and help kids advance athletic skills and enhance musical talent. Academic camps offer youth advanced-learning opportunities in subjects they might want to explore for long-term focus. And church camps offer character-building and self-awareness experiences not learned in school. Camps provide a safe place for teens and tweens to hang out while parents work during summer break. Not yet able to drive or find a summer job, kids this age too often allow technology to rule or walk into unsupervised trouble unless parents intentionally seek out creative options. Junior high and high schools provide information for local camps worth investigating as the school year draws to a close. It’s also easy to scour the Internet for camps that match your child’s interests. Some camps provide certification such as lifeguard training or first aid certification that can enable your youth to successfully find a job upon completion. Encourage your youth to research camps with you to find one that fits.

Confirm that camp counselors are trained to help with issues common to preschoolers, including separation anxiety, potty training, and temper tantrums. The best place to find camps for young children is through day cares, churches, nursery schools, and local elementary schools. Specialty camps also abound through gymnastic centers, music schools, and sporting centers. Consider your child’s interests and find a camp that fits to give your preschool child a chance to make new friends and explore new experiences.

AGES 6 - 11 Elementary-aged children thrive at camp, whether it’s day camp or stay-away camp. It’s the perfect solution to sibling squabbles and long summer days. But it pays to do your research and find the right fit for your child. Camps for this age range from sports camps to music camps to academic camps to church camps. Don’t let the variety intimidate you as you research; start with the interests of your child and ask friends and neighbors to give opinions on camps their kids have attended. An ideal age for kids to enjoy activities not available at home, camps offer zip lining, archery, rock wall climbing, swimming, arts and crafts, and campfire sing-alongs with friends. Kids gain independence as they make decisions and meet new friends outside of the comforts of home. They gain self-confidence in trying new activities. And they learn to appreciate the beauty of nature as they unplug from technology. Although they may experience periods of homesickness, they learn to forge through their feelings with caring camp counselors and new friends. Specialty camps close to home also help kids explore new hobbies or create opportunities for parents and kids to enjoy camp together. A mother-daughter sewing camp or father-son golfing camp allows great bonding time while developing a skill enjoyed by both. If your child has never experienced camp, start with a day camp or send a friend along for an away camp. It’s important that their first camp experience be a good one. If you find it wasn’t a perfect

Children develop resilience and flexibility that benefit them later in life. When kids attend camp, they develop resilience and flexibility that benefits them later in life. A Psychology Today article parallels the experiences of summer camp and the adjustment of college. “Being away from home and your traditional support system (family, friends, familiar places), and dealing with large amounts of uncertainty (what will classes require, how will I fit in socially, can I deal with this new roommate)” are similar adjustments, says writer Steve Baskin in “Creating Advantage in College.” Baskin proposes that kids who find success working through these challenges at camp adjust easier when presented with the transition to college. Summer camp offers unique experiences and character-building opportunities for every child. Whether your child is 2 or 15, camp is the perfect place to find adventure and make lifelong memories in the process. Don’t delay—find a camp your child will enjoy today. v Gayla Grace—freelance writer and mom to five, has sent her kids to camp every summer and continues to find new camps for her one child still at home.

12 • July+August 2016 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

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Continued from page 11

Moving with children isn’t easy. The transition feels overwhelming at times. But a few simple steps can help your children adjust easier to the surroundings of a new community. 1. Acknowledge and help with their grief. Sometimes we forget that moving creates loss and grieving that loss is part of the transition. Even if there’s excitement surrounding the move—which you can encourage—there will also be loss. When your children feel sad, acknowledge their feelings by telling them it’s OK to feel sad. Help them voice their feelings so they don’t act out in anger or withdraw into depression.

Children thrive on routine and have a greater need for it during times of change. 2. Stay in routines. Children thrive on routine and have a greater need for it during times of change. Keep the kids’ bedtime routines and eating schedules as close to normal as possible. Let them

continue to play with friends and participate in sports or other activities during the packing phase. When their schedule must change, prepare them ahead of time by talking about what each day will consist of as the actual move approaches. 3. Be a positive role model. Make an intentional choice every day to think positive thoughts and make positive comments about the move with your children present. Find a friend to be your sounding board when you need to process difficult feelings, but don’t let it happen within ears’ reach of your children. Kids watch how we process life, and if we seek to be positive and courageous, even on hard days, our kids will adopt the same attitude. 4. Allow time and energy to help your children settle into the new home first. If possible, let your kids pick out their bedrooms and give suggestions on how they want to decorate. Take time to help them feel settled before spending too much time unpacking other areas of the house. Unpack toys and stuffed animals first for preschool children. Unpack books and electronics first for elementary and middle school kids. Offer rewards when kids maintain a good attitude while helping unpack their rooms. 5. Seek out ways to promote friendships in the new community. Don’t let too many days go by without exploring Continued on page 14 ItsYourMagazine.com • EC Parent Magazine • July+August 2016 • 13

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your surroundings with kids in tow. Find the local library and community swimming pool. Ride bikes around the neighborhood and look for children at play. Visit churches, YMCAs, and community events that promote children’s activities. Encourage your children to take part in local camps that match their interests and help foster friendships in the process. 6. Visit the new school ahead of time. Walk the halls if possible and let them play on the playground. Talk about how it’s different from their previous school, allowing your children to express their feelings, both good and bad, about changing schools.

Moving can be a positive growth experience for children. 7. Be sympathetic on difficult days and encourage your kids to stay connected to friends they left behind. Elementary-aged children often get caught up in the excitement of moving and discover a few weeks down the road that moving can be hard too. When we moved out of state, our son was slow to make friends. One night as he went to bed he said, “I didn’t know it would take me so long to find friends.” He cried for a few minutes and talked about his friends he missed back home. We called one of them the next day and arranged for a week-long visit to help our son through a long summer month. 8. Recognize that change creates resiliency. Moving can be a positive growth experience for children, creating self-confidence and inner strength they might not achieve otherwise. As children are forced outside their comfort zones, they learn interpersonal skills and a resilient temperament, setting them up for success as they encounter the next change that comes along on their journey of life. v

BOOKS ABOUT MOVING

The Berenstain Bears' Moving Day by Stan Berenstain

Big Ernie's New Home: A Story for Children Who Are Moving by Teresa Martin

Who Will Be My Friends? by Syd Hoff

I'm Not Moving! by Wiley Blevins

A Tiger Called Thomas by Charlotte Zolotow

Gayla Grace is a freelance writer, wife, mom to three and stepmom to two. She supports and encourages stepparents through her website at www.stepparentingwithgrace.com 14 • July+August 2016 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

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GO OUTSIDE AND PLAY

15 O L D-FA S H I O N E D AC T I V I T I E S By Pam Molnar

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Continued from page 15

Summer is the best time to be a kid. School is out, the weather is great and each day promises a new adventure. At least that is how it used to be. Today, summer’s biggest rival is the computer screen. With the return of sunny skies, there is no need to bask in the artificial light of a digital display. Instead, encourage your child to gather up the neighborhood kids and show them how to have some oldfashioned summer fun.

Tug-o-War S tart summer off with a splash. Break the group up into teams, find a long rope and stand on opposite sides of a kiddie pool filled with water. On go, see who will make the first splash of the summer.

Obstacle Course ig out the hula hoops, soccer cones and jump ropes. Use your D creativity to set up an obstacle course in the backyard and let the races begin.

Nature Scavenger Hunt hether you are in the backyard or a local forest preserve, help W the kids make a list of items they can gather and race back to the starting line. Find things like a river rock, pinecone, acorn or a robin’s eggshell.

Pillowcase Race I t’s the same idea as a potato sack race, but easier to come by. Line up the kids and their pillowcases at the starting line and watch them go.

Frisbee Tic-Tac-Toe

Sharks and Minnows

raw a tic-tac-toe board on the driveway with chalk or in the yard D with spray paint. Gather four Frisbees for each player and try to get the Frisbees to land in the squares to win tic-tac-toe.

ine up the players, called minnows, on one end of the yard. One L shark stands in the middle of the yard. The minnows try to cross to the other side of the yard without getting tagged and becoming a shark themselves. Play continues until all minnows have changed to sharks.

Water Gun Shooting Range ather empty water and soda bottles and set them up on a deck G railing or table edge. Fill your water gun and try to knock them over. On windy days, fill each bottle with an inch of water.

Five Hundred ne player stands at the end of the yard or street with a baseball O bat and tennis ball. He throws the ball up and hits it with the bat Continued on page 17

PENSACOLA LITTLE THEATRE CLASSES FOR AGES 4 THROUGH ADULT ,

ALL LEVELS OF EXPERIENCE ARE WELCOME BROADEN YOUR HORIZONS BUILD SELF -CONFIDENCE HAVE FUN

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Watermelon Eating Contest ut watermelon into half-moon pieces and set in front of each player C on the table. On go, try to eat the watermelon as fast as you can without using your hands.

Water Balloon Toss S tand in parallel lines and pass a water balloon back and forth without dropping it. Change it up by setting one person in the middle of a circle with a bowl on his head. Players try to toss the balloon into the bowl. Continued on page 18

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Continued from page 17

into the crowd. They try to catch it on a fly: 100 points; with one bounce: 50 points; or two bounces: 25 points. Whoever scores 500 first is the winner.

Clothespin Tag veryone clips a hinged clothespin to the back of their shirt. The E person who is “It” tries to grab the clothespin as they run by.

Drip, Drip, Drop layed like Duck, Duck, Goose, this is a fun game for a hot day. P Instead of tapping the players in the circle for “duck,” drip a little water from a sponge. When you choose a player to “goose,” yell “drop” and squeeze the sponge over their head before you start running.

Kickball is game is similar to baseball, but it levels the playing field so Th that all ages and skill levels can play. The pitcher rolls a large ball to the “batter” who kicks it with his foot. Like baseball, the batter runs the bases and the opposing team tries to get him out before he gets home.

Kick the Can lace a metal can in the middle of the driveway or backyard P patio. The players hide while the person who is “It” tries to find them while keeping an eye on the can. If he gets too far away from the can, another player can come out of hiding and kick the can. If the player is tagged, he becomes “It.” If not, he is safe. Play continues until all players kick the can or until a player is found or tagged. v

Dodgeball Set up several soft vinyl balls in the center of two teams. On go, charge the center to get to a ball and start throwing them at other players. If a player catches it, the thrower is out. If he misses the catch or gets hit with the ball, the player is out.

Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three. She has fond memories of summertime games with her neighbors and looks forward to watching her children make summer memories of their own. pmmolnar@ aol.com; www.pammolnar.com; Etsy Store: PamsPartyPrintables; author of Fifty Games for Your Ho-Ho-Holiday Party.

18 • July+August 2016 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

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YOUR FAMILYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

Live li

fe its fullest evteo ry day! Stay hea lt fit and safhey, .

People who are both physically and mentally fit are less prone to medical conditions and are more likely to enjoy life and all it has to offer.

Celebrate life dailyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;live it!

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Here to help kids get back to being kids. Same-day appointments and walk-ins are welcome. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 800-347-1733.

130 E. Redstone Avenue Crestview

North Okaloosa Medical Center is owned in part by physicians.

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Sun Safety for Kids of All Ages

For many, fun in the sun is an important part of summertime enjoyment. Beach vacations, barbecues, and outdoor activities can all include warm sunshine. Aside from being enjoyable, the sun’s rays are a necessary ingredient to good health. If overexposure occurs, the short-term result is often little more than red, painful skin. However, the long-term result can be wrinkles, loose skin, and even cancer. Harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage individual skin cells, causing them to grow abnormally and become cancerous. Blistering sunburns result in this sort of damage, and long-term exposure has a collective negative effect. While skin type and family history are factors, exposure to the sun is believed to be a leading cause of skin cancer. Melanoma is one of the most dangerous forms of skin cancer. It is caused by a malignant tumor forming in the cells that give the skin its color. If caught early, melanoma is often treatable, but in many circumstances it can be life-threatening. The risk of melanoma increases as people age. The average age of people when it is diagnosed is 63. But melanoma is not uncommon even among those younger than 30. In fact, it’s one of the most common cancers in young adults (especially young women). The skin of children and young adults is especially at risk of cancercausing damage as it is not as well-developed as the skin of adults. Fortunately, following a few simple steps to protect a child’s skin can greatly reduce the risk of developing skin cancer later in life. Specific precautions depend on the age of the child. Babies under six months should never be exposed to direct sunlight. When taking a baby outside, make sure to have the proper covering, such as a wide-brimmed hat and a stroller with a canopy. Their skin has not yet fully developed the ability to protect itself from UV rays, and they are too young for sunscreen. For babies

older than six months, choose a sunscreen with SPF 15 or greater and begin by applying a small amount on the inside of the child’s wrist to test for allergies. If no reaction occurs, apply liberally and evenly an hour prior to sun exposure so the skin has time to absorb it. Reapply sunscreen every two to four hours, or after prolonged swimming. Children’s exposure to the sun should be monitored closely, and they should always wear sunscreen. It is important to explain how and why to apply sunscreen so they may enjoy a lifetime of healthy skin. Also, if the child is playing in the water or sweating a lot, reapply sunscreen often. The sun’s rays are the most harmful between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., so use extra caution during these times. Teenagers are generally familiar with the basics of sun safety; however, the desire to have tanned skin can outweigh the seemingly distant effects of overexposure. It is important to know that tanned skin is not necessarily healthy skin. It also may be helpful to explain that, along with skin cancer, too much sun can result in loose, wrinkled skin. Many beauty products now contain SPF 15 or higher, so sun safety can be part of a daily beauty routine for young adults. Outdoor activities can be enjoyable and relaxing for the whole family. Don’t let overexposure to the sun dampen the fun and ultimately increase your family’s risk of developing skin cancer. Protect and inform your children so they can enjoy a lifetime of healthy skin. Contact your physician to learn more about sun safety and the dangers of overexposure. v

PROVIDED BY

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YOUR

FAMILY’S A

W H AT’S T H E

ABOUT

BIG SWEAT

D E H Y D R AT I O N ?

When it’s hot outside and you’ve been sweating, you get thirsty. Why? Thirst can be a sign of dehydration (say: dee-hye-DRAY-shun). Dehydration means that your body doesn’t have enough water in it to keep it working right. A person gets water by drinking and eating. You lose water when you sweat, urinate (pee), have diarrhea, or throw up. You even lose a little water when you breathe. Our bodies need water to work properly. Usually, you can make up for the water you lose—like when you come in from outside and have a long, cool drink of water. If you don’t replace the water your body has lost, you might start to feel sick. And if you go too long without the water you need, you can become very ill and might need to go to the hospital.

Why Am I Dehydrated? Many times kids get dehydrated when they’re playing hard and having fun. Have you ever gotten really sweaty and red-faced when you’ve been playing? This often happens when it’s hot outside, but it can happen indoors, too, like if you’re practicing basketball in a gym. Kids also can get dehydrated when they’re sick. If you have a stomach virus, you might throw up or have diarrhea (say: dye-uh-REE-uh)

or both. On top of that, you probably don’t feel very much like eating or drinking. If you have a sore throat, you might find it hard to swallow food or drink. And if you have a fever, you can lose fluids because water evaporates from your skin in an attempt to cool your body down. That’s why your mom or dad tells you to drink a lot of fluids when you’re sick.

Signs of Dehydration In addition to being thirsty, here are some signs that a person might be dehydrated: • FEELING LIGHTHEADED, DIZZY, OR TIRED • RAPID HEARTBEAT • DRY LIPS AND MOUTH

Another sign of dehydration is not peeing as much. Normally, urine should be a pale yellow color. Dark or strong-smelling pee can be a sign of dehydration.

What to Do If you can, try not to get dehydrated in the first place. If you’re going to be going outside, it’s a good idea to drink water before, during, and

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KEEP IN MIND THAT PETS CAN ALSO SUFFER FROM THE EFFECTS OF DEHYDRATION! after you play, especially if it’s hot. Dehydration can happen along with heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. In addition to drinking water, it’s smart to dress in cool clothes and take breaks indoors or at least in the shade. If you’re sick, keep taking small sips of drinks like water or diluted juice, even if you’re not that thirsty or hungry. Eating an icepop is a great way to get fluids. How is an icepop a liquid? Well, it’s basically frozen water and flavoring. The warmth in your mouth and stomach turns it from a solid to a liquid. Other foods, such as fruits and vegetables, contain water, too, but if your stomach is not feeling well you might not be ready for them.

Do I Need a Doctor? Some cases of dehydration can be handled at home. But sometimes that isn’t enough to get a kid feeling better. A kid may need to go to the doctor or emergency room if he or she has a heat-related illness or a virus with vomiting or diarrhea that just won’t quit. At the hospital, the good news is that an intravenous (say: in-truhVEE-nus) (IV) line can get fluids into your body fast. An IV line is a

special tube (like a very thin straw) that goes right into your vein, so the liquid goes right to where your body needs it most. It may pinch a little when the nurse is inserting it, but it will help you feel much better.

Thirst-Quenching Tips So do you have to drink eight glasses of water a day? No, but you do need to drink enough to satisfy your thirst, and maybe a little extra if you’re sick or if you’re going to be exercising. The best drink is water, of course, but milk is another great drink for kids. Juice is OK, but choose it less often than water and milk. Sports drinks are fine once in a while, but water should be considered the drink of champions. Limit soda and other sugary drinks, such as fruit punches, lemonades, and iced teas. These drinks contain a lot of sugar that your body doesn’t need. Some of them also contain caffeine, which can cause you to urinate (pee) more often than normal. In other words, it tells your body to get rid of fluids. And as you now know, that’s the opposite of what you need to do if you’re dehydrated. v © 1995-2016 The Nemours Foundation. All rights reserved.

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FamilyChatter CHALLENGE YOUR FAMILY TO ANSWER EVERY QUESTION!

What’s your favorite subject in school?

When is the perfect bedtime?

Would you rather be a waiter or a garbage man?

If you won $1,000, what would you do with the money?

What would your favorite first job be if you could pick any job? Why that job?

How long have you lived in your current house? How many places have you called home?

Would you rather ride your bike or play a computer game?

What’s your favorite soda?

What’s your favorite dinner?

If you ever go back to school, what would you like to study?

Would you rather watch a sports game on TV or live?

What are three things you couldn’t live without?

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What’s the worst thing you’ve ever lived through? What was the most challenging thing about this event?

What’s the fanciest restaurant you’ve ever been to? What did you order?

If you could travel to any country, where would you go and what would you do?

Who is your favorite music band and why?

What was the name of your first pet? How old were you?

If you could pass any law, what would your law be?

Would you ever consider joining the military? If yes, what branch? If no, why?

How old do you think children should be before they’re allowed to have a phone?

What’s your favorite TV show?

(Mom/Dad) Name all the places you’ve worked. Which was the best and worst?

(Kids) When you grow up, do you want a small family or a large family? Why?

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C H AT T E R T I P S : Here are a number of places you can use these questions to spur on great conversations! At the Kitchen Table In the Family Room During Commercials In the Backyard On Road Trips in the Car Yell them out loud—out of the blue—just for fun!

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That’s Good to Know!

InformationYou Can Use!

BRIDGING THE GAP o ln a r By Pam M

Six Tips for Planning a Family Reunion As the world gets smaller, extended families stretch across the country. A recent survey shows that only 37% of us live in the hometown where we grew up. The result is a loss of family bonds and traditions. Sadly, we don’t know our second cousins or can’t remember our Great-aunt Millie. We are strangers with a common ancestor. One way to combat the vanishing extended family is to host a family reunion. Bringing family together from across the country while balancing different schedules, tastes and opinions is no small task, but don’t let that stop you. Start your journey to a memorable family reunion with these six easy tips.

1. Start planning now. Putting together a family reunion

takes a lot of planning. According to Lydia Stucki, creator of Family-Reunion-Success.com, it is best to start planning two years in advance. While that may seem like a long time, remember that you are trying to gather several families with different needs and agendas. “The more advanced notice you can give family, the more likely they will be able to attend,” says Stucki. You will also need to establish a communication center. Stucki suggests creating a Facebook group so the extended family can start reconnecting and building excitement for the reunion.

2. Choose the type of gathering. Poll family members and ask what kind of event they would enjoy. For some families, a one-day picnic is enough. For other families, a weekend with multiple Continued on page 31

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10 WAYS to sh w Let’s face it, most of us could use a little jump-start now and then when it comes to relationships. That’s why we’ve included this section. Simple acts of kindness are a great way to say “I care about you.” Date nights are great, but when life gets busy, sometimes all that’s necessary are little reminders!

R E H y u care Be a best friend to her. Don’t say things that you wouldn’t say to your best friend. Have fun with her. Hold hands while walking outside. Get a pet—one that she’s been dreaming of. Defend her to others—especially to your family. . e verbally supportive and honor B her in front of the children. Be interested in her friends. Listen to her. Discover her needs. Be open to suggestions. Plan your future together.

Challenge yourself to complete all 10 ideas each issue. Don’t just focus on the easy ones!

Fix dinner for her from time to time. Help out around the house by trying to anticipate what needs to be done and do it, or have the kids do it.

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M I H y u care Ask his mother to give you the recipe of his favorite dish. Initiate going out on romantic outings (when he’s not tired). Share your life with him—share your love and fears with him.

Challenge yourself to complete all 10 ideas each issue. Don’t just focus on the easy ones!

Flirt with him at an uneventful family event. Order balloons to his office or home (for birthday, anniversary or just for no reason). When he comes home, run out and kiss him—bring the kids too. . end your children to their S grandparents and have a romantic weekend together. Show interest in his friends, and encourage him to go out more. Be creative when you express your love, both in words and in actions. .Let him express himself freely.

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Continued from page 28

activities works better for them. You might want to ask friends and co-workers about their reunion experiences. Let everyone brainstorm on your Facebook page, through emails and on the phone. While everyone is pumped with great ideas, this is the perfect time to start asking for help.

3. Pick a date. Most family reunions are held in the summer when the weather is warmer and school is out. However, you may want to plan your reunion around a special event like a 50th anniversary party. As the reunion planner, Stucki suggests finding a date that works for you and your immediate family first. “Identify two or three different dates that would work well for you and then give the others choices.” Remember to choose a date far enough in advance so your family can take off from work and make their travel arrangements. Depending on the time of year and destination, hotel rooms, banquet halls and caterers may be booked out several months to a year.

4. Location, location. Today’s family is scattered across the country so you need to find a location that will accommodate the majority. The simplest idea is to hold the event in the family’s hometown. My family is from a small farming town in western Kentucky. This year’s reunion will take place at a site where the family has picnicked for generations. If the old homestead doesn’t work, you might want to find a spot that is closer to the majority of the current family or a centralized spot. Some families head to a vacation spot like Orlando or Lake Tahoe, but a large venue may distract from the point of the reunion.

5. Recruit volunteers. In order to have a successful family reunion, you need to do more than just show up. You will need a team of family members willing to make phone calls to find hotel deals, handle the food, choose entertainment, set up and clean up, and the many other behind-the-scenes details. Stucki explains that the way to find volunteers is to simply ask: “Give someone two or three choices of areas they could help or tasks that they could complete and let them decide which one they would most like to do.” Splitting the work among the family members will make it enjoyable for everyone.

6. Finances. With your new group of volunteers, determine how much the reunion will cost. Be sure to include venue rental, food, entertainment, reunion T-shirts, and all other costs associated with the reunion. Add a 10% cushion and divide by the number of families attending. Instead of laying out the deposit money yourself, ask everyone in the family to pay a portion of the deposit. It is up to you to decide if that deposit is refundable. Stucki suggests making a PayPal account instead of sending a check. She notes, “There are no transaction fees to send personal money and you can send payment reminders via PayPal as well.” Whether you plan a lavish vacation reunion or just an afternoon picnic, the goal of a family reunion is to reconnect and bridge the gap through fun, food and fellowship. v

OUTSTANDING ADDITIONS TO YOUR FAMILY REUNION A family reunion is about having fun and sharing family traditions. Take a look at some additional ideas to make your reunion unforgettable.

1. Entertainment. Set up games like a three-legged race, croquet or a scavenger hunt. Ask everyone to send in a baby picture and guess who they are. Plan a golf outing or attend a church service together.

2. Family Directory. As part of the invitation, include a sheet asking for each family’s names, dates of birth and anniversaries as well as home addresses, phone numbers and email addresses. Create a family directory with the information that was provided.

3. Have something for everyone to take away. Order T-shirts with the family name and reunion date. Make the shirts the same color to show unity or order multiple colors for each branch of the family.

4. Family recipe book. Don’t lose those wonderful family recipes! Check out HeritageCookbook.

com. It allows multiple people from the family to input their recipes from their own computers by simply filling in the blanks.

5. Take a collection. Find a cause that means something to your family. You can honor a family member lost to cancer or support a relative who recently lost their home to a fire.

6. Make a DVD montage. Ask a family member to

volunteer to collect pictures, scan and put together with music. You don’t need to be a professional–Windows Live Movie Maker or Apple’s iPhoto are user-friendly programs.

7. Family History. Use websites like Ancestry.com or FamilySearch.org to search your family tree. Start with your common ancestors and trace backward. Make a pedigree chart and share with the rest of the family.

Pam Molnar is a freelance journalist and amateur genealogist. Between reunions, Pam’s family stays connected via social media. ItsYourMagazine.com • EC Parent Magazine • July+August 2016 • 31

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Teach Your Kids Something New!

Young rs u e n e r p e r t En o ln a r By Pam M

Creating Work Outside of the Box With today’s economy being what it is, teens are having a hard time finding work. Jobs that have traditionally been filled by teenage workers in our society are now being filled by underemployed adults and recent college graduates. If a teenager is without a job during their high school years, where will they get the money to buy a car, save for college, or even have a little spending money for a trip to the movie theater? Entrepreneurship is the answer. As a third-generation entrepreneur, I can tell you that starting and maintaining your own business is not easy, nor is it something for everyone. It takes hard work, self-motivation and perseverance. The majority of teen businesses are service-oriented and many of the families in your neighborhood can benefit from those services. Take a look at some of these ideas—would any be a good fit for your teen?

Pet-sitting: Pet-sitting involves caring for someone’s pets while

they are on vacation or away for the day. A pet-sitter will be responsible for giving fresh food and water, walking dogs and cleaning out cat litter boxes. Pet-sitters need to be early risers and have the ability to get back and forth to the pet’s home 3 or 4 times each day. Although a pet-sitter does not spend the night, he is there to bring in the mail, water plants or take the garbage to the curb.

Tutor: Teens can use their skills to tutor younger kids in a variety of areas. If your teen plays an instrument, he can work with younger students to keep up their skills over the summer and improve their technique throughout the school year. Teens who play sports can share their talents with younger athletes who need to improve their throwing, hitting or dribbling techniques. And, of course, academic tutors are needed to help with math, reading, or ACT prep.

Memory Preserver: Busy families tend to collect hard drives

full of digital photos, but have no plan or the time to preserve them. Teens can back up files, send out pics for printed photos and put them in albums. Families may also enjoy a video montage of special events like baptisms or their daughter’s basketball tournament. Memory-preserver services may also include scanning non-digital photos or converting VHS tapes to DVD.

Summer Nanny: Babysitters are needed for both working and

stay-at-home parents during the summer months. For parents who work out of the home, they need a Mother’s Helper to entertain the children. Working parents who leave the house during the day may need someone to walk or drive their child to the local pool or summer activity. Babysitting is not only for teenage girls. Mothers of boys often look for an older boy who can relate to their sons’ interests.

Power Washer: After this long winter, the wooden structures in the neighborhood could use a cleanup. Power washers are simple

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to use after you have had proper instruction. Rent one at your local hardware center and offer to wash a neighbor’s deck for free. While he gets a clean deck, you will get a chance to perfect your skills and get a reference on your work. Pass out flyers to homes with wooden decks, fences and play sets.

Online Retailer: An eBay retailer is an awesome job for teens

as you can post, pack and ship at any time during the day. Teens can start by selling their own items, like books and gently used clothes, and then replenish their inventory with good deals found at thrift shops and garage sales. Craftier teens may enjoy selling their creations on Etsy. Some seller categories include jewelry, photography, art and personalized items.

Yard Work: Yard work goes beyond just mowing the lawn.

Teens can extend their seasonal business to offer their services year round. Spring is the time to clean up flower beds and fertilize. Fall is the time for raking leaves, cutting back flowers and planting bulbs for spring. If you live in a northern climate, teens can extend their services to include snow shoveling. Customers with dogs may also need pet waste removed.

Odd Jobs: Odd jobs can mean a variety of things to different

customers, so it is best to be prepared and know your limitations. Make a list of the things you can do and hand it out to friends and neighbors. Odd jobs may include washing the dog, weeding the garden, painting, sweeping out the garage, or helping to serve dinner at a party. Doing odd jobs can be a good match for someone with a busy schedule as many of the jobs can be done in a few hours.” v

MORE ONLINE JOBS FOR TEENS Looking to supplement your earnings with multiple streams of income? Consider increasing your bank account with jobs from these online companies: FIVERR SLICE THE PIE MY SURVEY SWAGBUCKS

Parents: Please read several reviews and search for scams before allowing your teen to sign up for an online job. Never pay for membership to start working for an online business.

Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three teenagers. She is proud to see the entrepreneurial spirit has touched a fourth generation in their family. ItsYourMagazine.com • EC Parent Magazine • July+August 2016 • 33

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SNACKS &â&#x20AC;&#x2020;CRAFTS

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Palm Tree Fruit Plate INGREDIENTS • Kiwis • Bananas • Tangerines • Plate • Knife DIRECTIONS • Slice bananas lengthwise and place on the plate as palm trees. • Slice bananas crossways to give trees a segmented look. • Peel kiwis with a paring knife. Cut kiwis lengthwise to look like palm fronds. Place on the plate at the top of the trees. • Peel tangerines. Pick apart the tangerine sections and place on plate to look like sand.

Enjoy eating your Palm Tree Fruit Plate or bring it to a Hawaiian get-together.

Rainbow Kabobs INGREDIENTS • Raspberries • Oranges • Pineapple • Kiwi • Blueberries • Grapes • Bamboo skewers DIRECTIONS • Cut fruit into bite-sized pieces. • Place on skewers in rainbow order: raspberry, orange, pineapple, kiwi, blueberry, grape. • Eat and enjoy.

Tailor these kabobs to your family’s taste. Try adding a variety of different and exotic fruits.

If you’re looking for a fun yet simple snack that’s also healthy, these kabobs will do the trick. Perfect for any summertime get-together!

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Jell-O Melon INGREDIENTS • Small seedless watermelon • 2 small (3 oz.) boxes of strawberry Jell-O® • 2 envelopes of Knox Original Unflavored Gelatine • 2 cups hot water • Large spoon or melon baller • Large bowl • A sharp knife DIRECTIONS • Remove most of the watermelon flesh using a large spoon or melon baller. It is best if the inside of the watermelon is smooth when watermelon is removed. We left a small layer of red flesh on the inside of the semi-circle. Put aside and eat separately. • Combine the envelopes of Knox with the hot water. Make sure that all the lumps have been dissolved. The Knox will make the Jell-O thicker. • Add Strawberry Jell-O powder to the mixture and mix until smooth. • Pour into the melon semi-circle and place in refrigerator until hard. Approximately 3 hours. • Slice into wedges using a sharp knife.

Idea: Watermelon works great. But don’t stop there. You can create an amazing summertime picnic platter by trying out an array of different fruits and colors. What’s your favorite fruit? Try other combinations of fruits and flavors—orange, lime, lemon, cantaloupe and more!

Ice Cream Cookies INGREDIENTS • Chocolate chip cookies • Ice cream in various flavors • Sprinkles • Ice cream scoop • Knife DIRECTIONS • Scoop ice cream onto cookies and press into shape using the ice cream scoop. • Place the second cookie on top, being careful not to crack the cookies. • Use the knife to smooth the ice cream all the way around. • Sprinkle the sprinkles around the outside edge as desired. • Cookies can be placed on wax paper and put in the freezer to get firm.

If you’re an ice-cream lover and enjoy a good chocolate chip cookie, then this little treat will make your day!

Tip: You can pre-make the chocolate chip cookies or purchase them from the store. Tip: Slightly softened ice cream is easier to work with.

38 • July+August 2016 • EC Parent Magazine • ItsYourMagazine.com

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Glass Jar Lanterns or Vases MATERIALS • Glass jars in varying shapes and sizes • Large brush • Mod Podge • Food coloring • Measuring teaspoons • Tealights • Heavy black floral wire INSTRUCTIONS • In a disposable bowl, mix 1 teaspoon of Mod Podge with a few drops of food coloring until desired color is achieved. A little goes a long way. • Use large brush to apply Mod Podge over entire jar. Then use bristles to stipple a design over the jar or even twist to get swirls over the entire jar. • Put aside to dry. • Repeat with additional jars, colors and designs. • When dry, twist wire securely around the lip of the jar to hang on the fence. • Fill jars with a tealight or flowers from the garden.

Tip– Use Outdoor Mod Podge if you want to hang your lantern in the garden.

Sponge Balls MATERIALS (FOR ONE BALL) • 3 sponges • Strong string • Ruler • Scissors INSTRUCTIONS • Cut each sponge lengthwise into 5 strips, these will be approximately ½ inch wide. • Stack sponge pieces into a rectangle that is 3 strips high and 5 strips wide. It looks delightful if you vary the colors throughout the rectangle. • Tie a piece of strong string around the entire rectangle and pull tightly. Double-knot the string and trim the ends. • Pull and tug on the sponge until it is in the circular shape desired. • Dunk the sponge into a bucket or pool and throw it at your favorite person.

This fun and easy craft will make your family pool time a real blast!

Tip: Create sponge-war teams and single-colored sponge balls for each team and have an all-out water war! Let your kids mix colors just for fun.

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Homemade Playdough MATERIALS • 1 cup of flour • ½ cup of salt • Food coloring or gel • ½ cup of water • Plastic or latex gloves • Zippered plastic bags

Tip: We highly recommend Wilton’s Gel Food Colors.

INSTRUCTIONS • Mix flour and salt in a large bowl. Put on gloves if you do not want your hands to get messy or colored from food coloring. • Add water and mix thoroughly with your hands until a smooth dough is formed. • Add food coloring. We added 5- 25 drops or blobs of gel depending on the color and richness we desired. Add drops in small amounts. Thorough mixing is required to get a smooth look and feel. • Store in the refrigerator in zippered plastic bags. • Have a fun time playing with the dough as a family. It is okay for Mom and Dad to play too.

Sand Handprint Keepsake MATERIALS • Sand from your local beach • Plaster of paris • Measuring cup • Bucket

Hang this keepsake on your wall as a reminder of your great family time at the beach! Tip: You can transport some of the beach sand home and do this entire project in a safer environment.

• Soft paintbrush • A collection of shells and rocks • A box for transporting home

• Wooden plaque • Stain • Glue

DIRECTIONS • Find clean, damp sand at the beach (brush away any debris). • Prepare plaster of paris in a bucket with water according to the directions on the package. (Do not use salt water.) • Have your child press their hand into the sand (deeper impressions make stronger molds). Lift hand straight out of the sand. • Pour plaster of paris into the hand-mold and use a stick to gently smooth the top surface. Allow handprint to dry according to directions of the package (approx. 30-60 min.). • When dry, lift handprint carefully out of the sand and place into a box to transport home. • Collect small shells and rocks while you are at the beach. • When home, remove handprint from box and brush off excess sand carefully with a soft paintbrush. • Stain wooden plaque with desired color. Allow to dry. • Arrange handprint and shells on wooden plaque. Glue down each item. Be sure there is enough glue under handprint to hold it securely.

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TEEN Helpful Advice from One Teen to Another!

TALK

SUMMER This summer, make it your goal to do more than just lie in your bed for hours mindlessly binge watching Netflix. Get out of your pajamas and check out these simple but exciting things to do, along with exercise routines and healthy snacks.

FUN IN THE SUN

STAY FIT

HEALTHY FOODS

CURE YOUR SUMMER BOREDOM

KEEP YOUR BODY HAPPY AND HEALTHY

PAY ATTENTION TO ALL THE FOOD GROUPS

Have a Pool Day: Get out of the house for a little while and indulge in a fun day at the pool with your friends. Buy some cute floaties and some tanning oil, and get ready for a blast!

Beach Yoga: Beach yoga is more than just stretching; it’s a full-body workout, especially when it’s on an unstable surface such as the sand. It also helps you build muscles while relaxing your mind.

Stay Hydrated: This will help keep you energized and is good for your overall health. Carry a water bottle with you everywhere (for a twist, cut up and add fruit to your water).

Charity Work: Get your community service hours by giving back to those in need and by helping out programs that make it their goal to allow others great opportunities. It is good for your conscience and it’s a good way to explore the world around you.

Running: Take a few mornings out of your week to run a mile or two to get your body going and to get yourself in good shape.

Go Fruit Crazy: Even if you only eat one piece of fruit a day, your body and mind will thank you for all the vitamins, minerals and juiciness you’ve just provided yourself. Examples: fruit salsa & cinnamon chips; dark chocolate-covered strawberries; fruit salad.

Get Into Your Music: Find a concert or music festival near you. Take a road trip and go with your friends to enjoy your favorite artists live. Do Something Exciting: Forget sitting on the couch and do something spontaneous. Go paintballing, go-karting, or to an arcade. Get into competition mode and take out your competitors while enjoying yourself at the same time. It’s never a dull moment when you are having fun! v

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Bike Rides: Bike riding works out nearly every part of your body and is always an enjoyable experience. Create Your Own Routine: Get creative and make your own workout routine with exercises of your choice—just be sure to keep it up. v

Don’t Forget the Veggies: Embrace the greens this summer. It will be greatly appreciated by your body. If you don’t enjoy vegetables on their own, mix them up. Examples: salad (chicken Caesar, berry salad, etc.); fried cabbage; avocado and tomato (on sandwiches, with eggs, in salad). v

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FUN GUIDE CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Making the Most of Life on the Coast! We live on a beautiful coast that has so much to offer, and we’re here to make sure you know what’s going on in your own backyard. Enjoy!

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SummerWild Summer Camp

Mon, June 13–Fri, Aug 5 – Destin Every weekday through the summer, wildlife enthusiasts can have live animal encounters as they explore the Destin Harbor. Kids will learn about exotic animals in their natural habitats. Registration is now open. For more information, please call 850-830-3933.

large-scale photographs explores the Chinese artist’s experience as an outsider looking in on American culture. For more information, please visit www.mattiekellyartscenter.org.

Magic and Theatre Summer Camp

Every Tuesday and Thursday through July – Destin (2:00p.m.) Join Emerald Coast Theatre Company’s improv actors and instructors to play theatre games and learn magic tricks. Each day two new magic tricks will be taught. For more information, please visit www.emeraldcoasttheatre.org.

Family Comedy Improv Show

Every Friday and Sunday through Aug 12 – Destin (6:00p.m.) This is an outing the entire family will enjoy! The show will interact with the audience by utilizing their suggestions to develop the plot, scenes and characters. For tickets and more information, please call 850-687-1637.

Sounds Fun Crew Club

Wed, July 6 – Destin (10:00a.m.) It’s Kids’ Day out! Join Emerald Grande and Abrakadoodle for art projects, games and fun! This event is open for children ages 5-12 years old. For prices and more information, please call 850-424-0613.

Seasonal

ADSO Kids’ Summer Art Camp

Mon, July 11–Fri, July 15 – Fort Walton Beach (9:30a.m.)

Fourth of July Celebration Mon, July 4 – Destin

The Arts and Design Society again offers the opportunity for children to participate in creating visual arts in its summer Kids’ Art Camp. For more information or to register, call 850-244-1271.

Head to the Destin Harbor for live music, fireworks and a thrilling performance on the main stage! For more information, please visit www.destinchamber.com.

SunQuest Cruises 4th of July Fireworks, Dancing and Dinner Cruise Mon, July 4 – Destin (6:00p.m.)

Don’t miss the boat on the ultimate 4th of July celebration. You’ll enjoy coastal cuisines, dance to live music, and end the night with a spectacular fireworks show! Reservations are required. For more information, please call 850-650-2519.

Red, White and Baytowne

Mon, July 4 – Baytowne (6:00p.m.) Celebrate Independence Day at Baytowne, and enjoy live music, kid’s activities, and fun in the sun! There will be live music from Soul Track Mind starting at 7:00p.m., followed by a patriotic fireworks show that will light up the sky. For more information, please visit www.baytownewharf.com.

Rock the Docks

Sat, June 4–Sat, Aug 27 – Destin (7:00p.m.) Make this summer a hit! Enjoy a free concert and rock out on the Destin Harbor every Saturday through the summer. For a list of bands to hit the stage and more information, please visit www.destinchamber.com.

Captain Pickle Reads at Destin Library

The Arts A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum – Summer Musical Comedy

Wed, July 13–Sat, July 16 – Mattie Kelly Arts Center Northwest Florida State College presents this witty and irreverent musical production this summer at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center’s Mainstage. For more information, or to purchase tickets, please call 850-729-6000.

Art Exhibit: Holzhauer: New York

Mon, Aug 22–Fri, Sep 23 – Mattie Kelly Arts Center “Holzhauer’s New York” is an exhibit that highlights the artist’s time in New York. For more information, please visit www. mattiekellyartscenter.org.

Art Exhibit: Bin Feng’s “American Dream”

Mon, Aug 22–Fri, Sep 23 – Mattie Kelly Arts Center Bin Feng’s “American Dream” will be on display in the McIlroy Gallery. This exhibition of

Tues, July 12 and Tues, July 26 – Destin (3:30p.m.) Captain Pickle will be visiting the Destin Library to read some of his favorite stories and to help with craft projects designed around each story. For more information, please call 850-837-8572.

Mr. Mac Supports Summer Reading Program Tues, July 19 – Destin (3:00p.m.)

Michael McCartan, also known as Mr. Mac, is a musician and educator whose songs encourage kids to never stop reading. He will be performing at the Destin Library to promote the summer reading program. For more information, please call 850-837-8572.

Mega Sports Camp

Mon, July 25–Fri, July 29 – Fort Walton Beach (8:30a.m.) The Fort Walton Beach First Baptist Church is hosting an exciting week of Bible study, sports, music, and arts and crafts! Early registration is recommended; entry is $150 per child. For more information, please call 850-226-6905.

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best poker hand is a Yamaha V1 PWC donated by K&M Cycles! All proceeds will benefit Children in Crisis and OSCO Star Charity. For more information, please visit http:// fudpokerrun.com/.

15th Annual Kickoff Classic Golf Tournament Sat, Aug 6 – Destin – Emerald Bay Golf Club

This is a great way to get ready for football season, as all players are encouraged to wear their favorite team colors. For more information, please visit www.destinchamber.com.

5th Paddle at the Porch

Sat, Aug 20 – Destin (9:00a.m.)

Sandstock

Sat, Aug 6 – Pensacola (10:00a.m.) It’s not Woodstock; it’s Sandstock at the Flora-Bama way! Come out for great music, great times and great food! Customers are encouraged to dress up in hippie style threads and will receive free peace sign beads for dressing up while supplies last. For more information, please call 850-492-0611.

Paddle at the Porch showcases the beautiful emerald water of Destin behind one of its most loved restaurants, The Back Porch. This standup paddleboard event features a kids’ fun race, a one-mile and three-mile recreational race, and a six-mile elite race! For more information, please visit www. paddleattheporch.com.

Nashville Songwriters’ Florida Sunshine Tour

independent films and documentaries. The goal is to provide residents with the opportunity to view films that are in limited release and/or unlikely to be presented in local theaters. For more information, please visit www.destinchamber.com.

Poetry & Music Jam

Every second Tuesday of each month – Crestview (6:00p.m.) Poets and musicians are invited to bring their work and instruments to a free-form, openmic poetry reading and jam session. For more information, please call 850-682-4432.

Boomin’ Tuesday

Every Tuesday of each month – Baytowne Wharf (7:00p.m.) Baytowne Wharf will light up the night sky with their Boomin’ Tuesday extravaganza! Bring the kids for activities, inflatables and music starting at 7:00p.m. Later, enjoy the spectacular firework show at 9:00p.m. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.baytownewharf.com.

Fat Tuesday Parade

Wed, Aug 10 – Destin (8:00p.m.)

Every Tuesday of each month – Destin (7:00p.m.)

Nashville singers and songwriters are bringing their soulful, gritty, country melodies to the Destin Harbor for a live concert. For more information, please visit www.emeraldgrande.com.

Head to HarborWalk Village and watch the harbor transform into The Big Easy! Enjoy dazzling floats, beads and lots of swag during their free parade through HarborWalk Village. Laissez les bons temps rouler! For more information, please visit www.destinchamber.com.

GulfWind Paddle & Surf Wednesday Night BOTE Board Demo Event Every Wednesday of each month – Santa Rosa Beach (6:00p.m.)

Reoccurring Local Sunday Cinema

Every Sunday of each month – Baytowne Wharf (8:00p.m.)

Runs, Walks & Golf Fishing for a Cause

Every weekend in July – Fort Walton Beach It’s time again for the 2nd Annual Okaloosa Island Pier Tarpon Tournament! This event takes place throughout the month of July and will benefit the Fisher House Foundation. For dates and more information, please call 850-225-3022.

3rd Annual Fudpoker Run

Sat, July 16 – Choctawhatchee Bay The 3rd Annual Fudpoker Run is a family event that takes place 40-70 miles around the Choctawhatchee Bay! This event has a fivecard draw or a seven-card stud at some of the bay’s best waterfront venues. The prize for the

Take your family out for a movie night under the stars at The Village of Baytowne Wharf! Bring your blankets and chairs and enjoy a kid-friendly movie on the big-screen. For more information and a movie listing, please visit www.baytownewharf.com.

Hydroflight Monday

Every Monday of each month – Baytowne Wharf Baytowne Wharf will take you sky-high as you set your eyes on a water show that is truly out of this world! Enjoy three performances by fly board extraordinaire Ben Merrell. For a list of dates and show times, visit www. baytownewharf.com.

Monthly Movie Night

Every 3rd Tues. of each month – Destin (4:00p.m.) The Friends Guild of the Destin Library, Inc., will sponsor a monthly movie night featuring

Socialize with other paddleboard enthusiasts every Wednesday evening and take time to demo ride the entire fleet of BOTE Boards. For more information, call Steve with GulfWind Paddle & Surf at 850-200-8375.

Wednesday Night Concert Series

Every Wednesday of each month – Baytowne Wharf (7:00p.m.) From 7:00p.m. until 9:00p.m., enjoy a free concert at the Events Plaza Stage in Baytowne Wharf! For more information, please visit www.baytownewharf.com.

Okaloosa Island Fireworks

Every Wednesday of each month – Fort Walton Beach (9:00p.m.) Bring your chairs and beach towels and head to Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier for a spectacular fireworks show. For more information, please visit www.fwbchamber.org.

Don’t See Your Event? Send calendar events to us at info@itsyourmagazine.com

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TWO-MINUTE TIC-TAC-TOE There’s no time like the present. Stop what you’re doing and play a few rounds of Tic-Tac-Toe with your son or daughter. Enjoy!

Planetarium Nights

Every 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month – Fort Walton Beach (5:00p.m.) Head on over to the Emerald Coast Science Center for Planetarium nights. Shows are approximately 45 minutes long, and booking tickets in advance is recommended. For more information, visit www.ecscience.org.

Magical Thursdays

Every Thursday of each month – Baytowne Wharf (7:00p.m.) Baytowne Wharf has a few tricks up their sleeve for you on Magical Thursday! Enjoy an extraordinary magic show by their featured pirate, Captain Davy! For more information, visit www.baytownewharf.com.

Throwback Thursday Cinema

The last Thursday of each month – Baytowne Wharf (7:00p.m.) Throwback Thursday is coming back to Baytowne with some of your favorite classic movies. Enjoy a free family-friendly movie on the Events Plaza Lawn from 7:00p.m. until 9:00p.m. For movies and show times, please visit www.baytownewharf.com.

Red, White and Blue Celebration

Every Thursday of each month – Destin (7:00p.m.) The Red, White and Blue Celebration happens every Thursday on the Destin Harbor. Pay tribute to our military heritage with an official presentation of the colors by the Eglin Air Force Honor Guard. Then our WWII-vintage North American T-6 Texan stunt team takes to the sky to perform an air show over the HarborWalk Village! Not only will there be live music and fireworks, but also enjoy a thrilling fire dancing show! For more information, please visit www.destinchamber.com.

Volunteer Opportunity Place

Contact CC Fearson at 850-659-3190.

Socks

Contact Nikole Wood at 850-863-8999.

PAWS

Contact Alicia Sikes at 850-243-1525.

Salvation Army

Contact Lisa Martinez at 850-243-4531.

Habitat for Humanity

Contact Mark McEnaney at 850-685-0686.

Florosa Fire Department

Contact Tom Peele at 850-581-2900.

VFW

Contact Harvey Eckoff at 850-244-3834.

Goodwill

Contact John at 850-837-8516.

Destin Community Center

Contact Lisa Firth at 850-654-5184.

Waterfront Rescue Mission

Contact Tina or Sharron at 850-244-2726.

Destin History & Fishing Museum Contact Kathy Blue at 850-837-6611.

Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge

Contact Susan Leivelle at 850-650-1880.

Boys & Girls Club

Contact Rita Cummins at 850-862-1332.

Downtown FWB Farmers’ Market

Every 2nd Saturday of each month – Fort Walton Beach (8:00a.m.) The market will be held at the Fort Walton Beach Landing Park and will offer an array of vendors. For more information please visit www.fwbchamber.org.

Don’t See Your Event? Send calendar events to us at info@itsyourmagazine.com

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