The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is a leading science museum dedicated to sharing the power of science, sparking wonder and investigation, and fueling innovation for the future. Frost Science is also dedicated to education, earning national awards for its summer camps and after-school programs.
BOOK CLUB
South Florida is bursting with incredible summer programs designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning. We are so fortunate to have such a diverse range of programs that have evolved to offer personalized and individualized approaches to summer with strong focus on engaging young minds. From artistic expression to outdoor exploration and skills-specific instruction to STEM education—there is truly something for everyone.
On our cover, The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, is one of these dedicated institutions in South Florida. They inspire STEM learning and innovation through unforgettable adventure in science and discovery bringing science to life through handson experiences.
We hope that this issue will guide you to right program to help your child explore passions, discover new interests, learn new skills, and create lifelong memories. Here’s to a summer filled with adventure and self-discovery!
FOR SUMMER. ENROLL NOW
FROM MARINE BIOLOGY
AND ROBOTICS
TO
ASTRONOMY
AND
PALEONTOLOGY,
THERE IS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE AT SUMMER CAMP AT THE PHILLIP AND PATRICIA FROST MUSEUM OF SCIENCE!
This award-winning program at the museum’s campus in Downtown Miami provides a rich, hands-on experience that makes learning fun. Taking place from Monday, June 9 through Friday, August 8, Frost Science’s Summer Camp is designed to spark a sense of curiosity and excitement in children ages 5-15 through different week-long camps themed around the amazing science featured at the museum.
Campers will launch into the outer reach es of our universe, dig into paleontology, try their hand at coding, and so much more during this unforgettable program. They will also get to explore interactive science exhibitions, meet the animals in the Aquarium, and journey through the universe in the state-of-the-art Frost Planetarium.
Frost Science’s Summer Camp also offers a Curator-in-Training (CIT) program for middle school students ages 12-15. They’ll gain leadership skills, learn about various sci-
ence disciplines, and create a scientific re source or community action project under the guidance of a mentor. CITs will explore their interests in science, build their resumes, become young leaders in STEM, gain community service hours, and receive a recommendation letter for their time as a CIT.
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity for discovery, hands-on learning, and summer fun! Secure your child’s spot today and let their curiosity take flight at Summer Camp at the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science.
Visit frostscience.org/summercamp today to register. Space is limited!
June 16th - July 25th, 2025
Dual-Enrollment Univ. Courses
Designed for Students w/ Learning Differences
SAT/ACT Test Prep
Earn up to 2 HS Credits! Course Recovery
Honors Course Recovery Skill Building
25 Years Serving South Florida The Gold Standard of Non-Traditional Schools!
From Advanced Academics to Credit Recovery
Summer Mini-Camps for Bright/Gifted, Profoundly Gifted & Twice-Exceptional Kids!
We know them because we were them!
Half Day, Week-Long Camps
Pro-Neurodivergent
Combine Camps for More Fun!
Small Groups
Varying Ages
Over 25 years serving S. Florida Families
FROM SCREEN TIME TO GREEN TIME
In a world filled with screens and schedules, the best way to enrich your child’s summer might be the simplest—more time outside. From boosting creativity to strengthening resilience, outdoor play isn’t just fun; it’s essential for growth. Discover why fresh air, sunshine, and unstructured exploration can be the key to a happier, healthier, and more engaged child this summer.
Childhood used to be defined by movement. Kids climbed trees, rode bikes, and came home with scraped knees. Summers meant freedom—time to explore, wander, and get into a little harmless trouble. Now? Teens spend an average of seven hours a day on screens and barely seven minutes outdoors. This shift is what author Richard Louv calls “Nature Deficit Disorder.” Children today spend significantly less time outside than previous generations, and the effects are hard to ignore. Anxiety is rising, motor skills are weakening, and attention spans are shrinking. Studies also link this indoor lifestyle to obesity, vitamin D deficiencies, and rising rates of loneliness. While screens deserve some blame, technology isn’t the only culprit. Between endless homework, structured activities, and Mandarin lessons before kids have even lost a baby tooth, free time has all but disappeared. And then there’s safety. No parent wants their child roaming the neighborhood like it’s 1985. The world has changed, and it’s tempting to throw in the towel and let kids
morph into blue-light-obsessed, overscheduled mini-CEOs. They seem happy. They’re quiet. But at what cost?
The good news? The fix is simple: more time outside. Nature improves mood, focus, and overall well-being, acting as a natural antidote to stress and overstimulation. Summer is the perfect time to hit the reset button. Longer days, warmer weather, and a break from rigid schedules create the perfect opportunity to swap screen time for green time and reclaim what’s been lost.
Physical Benefits of Outdoor Play
Outdoor play isn’t just fun—it’s fundamental. Running, climbing, and spinning build strength, coordination, and confidence in ways indoor play can’t. Activities like swinging or rolling down a hill strengthen the vestibular system, which controls balance and spatial awareness. Climbing forces
kids to adjust to different angles, sharpening reflex es and body control. Even small actions like picking up rocks and threading leaves onto a stick help re fine dexterity.
Beyond movement, outdoor play strengthens the immune system. Fresh air bolsters the immune sys tem in ways no vitamin gummy can fake, while sunlight fuels vitamin D production, keeping bones strong and reducing sick days. A 2021 Finnish study found that replacing sterile daycare floors with for est soil improved children’s immune function within weeks. These physical benefits are just the begin ning.
Mental and Emotional Ben efits
Nature doesn’t just strengthen the body, it resets the mind. Time outdoors lowers stress, improves focus, and helps kids regulate emotions. Unlike predictable indoor spaces, nature is dynamic, providing a full sensory experience—the feel of grass on bare feet, the sound of birds, the scent of freshly cut leaves—all of which help recalibrate a nervous system overloaded by screens.
Outdoor play helps kids think and feel better, too. Time in nature lowers cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, promoting calm and emotional balance. It also provides space for unstructured play, allowing them to process emotions in real-time; whether that’s the excitement of spotting a butterfly or the frustration of a wobbly stick fort that keeps falling over.
But the benefits of spending time outside extend beyond mood and emotions. It also sharpens focus, strengthens attention span, and improves emotional regulation, particularly for kids with ADHD. Unlike screens, which constantly demand attention, nature allows the brain to recharge. It engages without overwhelming, offering a quiet but powerful mental reset.
Researchers have also found that outdoor play strengthens executive function skills, including impulse control, patience, and problem-solving. Kids who spend more time outside tend to be better at assessing
risks, thinking through decisions, and handling frustration without seeking instant gratification. These mental and emotional benefits make outdoor play a crucial contributor to a child’s well-being, shaping how they interact with the world around them.
Social and Cognitive Growth
Outside, there are no rules. Or rather, kids make their own. When left to their own devices (the old-school kind, not the glowing screens), kids collaborate, invent, and negotiate. Whether they’re building a fort, making up a new game, or settling an argument over whose turn it is, outdoor play teaches confidence, independence, and resilience.
Time in nature also helps kids feel connected—not just to their friends, but to the world around them. Watching a bird build a nest, following a line of ants, or flipping over a rock to find worms—these small moments plant the seeds of curiosity and stewardship. And kids who fall in love with the outdoors are more likely to care for it as they grow.
“ TIME IN NATURE IS NOT A LUXURY, IT’S A NECESSITY.”
Unlike the controlled predictability of indoor spaces, nature is a constantly changing environment that trains kids to be aware, adaptable, and in tune with their surroundings. It offers both physical and mental benefits that screens simply can’t replicate. But in a world of packed schedules and digital distractions, carving out time for outdoor play takes intention. Finding ways to make it a regular habit without overhauling daily life can make all the difference.
Finding Ways to Make Outdoor Time a Habit
For families looking to increase outdoor play, the 1000 Hours Outside movement offers a simple yet powerful challenge: replace screen hours with outdoor hours, aiming for 1,000 hours outside per year. The number isn’t random; research shows that many kids spend over 1,000 hours per year in front of screens. Reclaiming even a fraction of that for fresh air and movement can make a life-changing difference.
Hitting 1,000 hours doesn’t mean you have to throw out every device and move off the grid. It breaks down to
just under three hours per day. Some days, that might mean a long bike ride or a picnic at the park. Other times, it’s as simple as taking a post-dinner walk instead of watching TV. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s progress. If you’re wondering where to start, the 1,000 Hours Outside podcast is a great resource, offering expert insights and practical advice on making outdoor time a bigger part of daily life.
Finding Balance
Encouraging kids to play outside doesn’t mean banning technology—it just means making space for fresh air, movement, and a little unstructured fun. Outdoor play builds confidence, resilience, and problem-solving skills in ways no app can. Climbing, exploring, and taking small risks teach kids to trust themselves, adapt to challenges, and (bonus!) burn off energy for an easier bedtime. Summer enrichment programs are a fantastic way to blend learning with outdoor play—giving kids the chance to discover new passions while soaking up the sun. A childhood spent outdoors isn’t just a nice idea—it’s essential. And the best time to start is right now.
Three Sessions June 9 - 27 Athletic Camps: Grades 1 – 8 Academic Camps: Grades 6– 12
8001 S.W. 184 St. Miami, FL 33157 (305) 251-2230
palmertrinity.org/summer-programs
Campers ages 5 -11
Curator-in-Training Program ages 12-15
1101 Biscayne Blvd Miami, FL 33132 (305) 434-9518
frostscience.org/summercamp
KLA SCHOOLS
KLA Schools of Aventura 12 Months - 5 years 20301 Biscayne Blvd. Aventura, FL 33180 (305) 931-2322
KLA Schools of Coral Gables 3 Months - 5 years 4573 Ponce De Leon Blvd. Coral Gables, FL 33146 (305) 668-0552
KLA Schools of Doral 12 Months - 5 years (offers VPK) 10400 NW 33rd Street #100 Miami, FL 33172
KLA Schools of North Bay Village 3 Months - 5 years 7800 Hispanola Avenue North Bay Village, FL 33141 (305) 865-2678
KLA Schools of North Miami Beach 3 Months - 5 years (Offers VPK) 13702 Biscayne Blvd. North Miami Beach, FL 33181 (305) 697-8018
GULLIVER PREP SUMMER Summer programs for ages 6 -18
Marian C. Krutulis PK-8 Campus 12595 Red Road Coral Gables, FL 33156
Upper School Campus 6575 North Kendall Drive
KLA Schools of Palmetto Bay 3 Months - 5 years 14875 S. Dixie Highway, Unit B Miami, FL 33176 (305) 233-0130
KLA Schools of West Kendall 3 Months - 5 years (Offers VPK/SR) 8950 SW 137th Avenue Miami, FL 33186 (305) 387-2480
www.klaschools.com
PALMETTO BAY ACADEMY 1st - 12th Grade
16637 S Dixie Highway Miami, FL 33157 (786) 293-5353
www.palmettobayacademy.com
Camp Gulliver provides unique o erings for
grade level and interest–all in one place! STEAM, Swim
KLA SCHOOLS
PALM B E ACH COUNTY
13. KLA SCHOOLS
KLA Schools of Boynton Beach 3 Months - 5 years (Offers VPK) 1601 N Congress Avenue Boynton Beach, FL 33426 (561) 735-1042
KLA Schools of Lake Worth 6 weeks - 5 years (Offers VPK) 4945 Via Bari Lake Worth, FL 33463 (561) 432-9559
www.klaschools.com
KLA SCHOOLS
KLA Schools of Pembroke Pines 3 Months - 5 Years (Offers VPK) 18055 NW 8th Street Pembroke Pines, FL 33029 (954) 443-6168
KLA Schools of Fort Lauderdale 3 Months - 5 years 2857 E. Oakland Park Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, FL 33306 (954) 530-1960
KLA Schools of Coconut Creek 3 Months - Kindergarten (Offers VPK) 6310 N State Road 7 Coconut Creek, FL 33073 (954) 571-8019
www.klaschools.com
2801 SW 12 Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312 (954) 581-0700 www.aquinas-sta.org
OFFERINGS INCLUDE
ACADEMICS (Grades 6-12)
Introduction
ATHLETICS (Grades 1-8)
SUMMER 2025 FAMILY BOOK CLUB
Reddit rabbit hole you fell into at 2 a.m. The good news? Reading isn’t just entertainment; it’s one of the best ways to expand your mind. Books let us escape while building empathy, helping us see the world through different perspectives. They sharpen critical thinking, boost memory, and even reduce stress. And let’s not forget the best part: reading is basically time travel. You can revisit history or imagine the future, all without having to deal with airport security or packing.
Books develop print awareness in young children, helping them understand that words carry meaning. For adults, reading is the ultimate mental workout. It improves focus while offering a much-needed break from daily stress. Whether you’re diving into a nonfiction habit-building guide or an exciting novel, reading is a fantastic way to
A NOTE FOR PARENTS
Below is a mix of fiction and nonfiction recommendations—something for every member of the family.
Books let you travel without ever leaving your couch. And the best part? If you check out books from your local library, you don’t have to spend a dime! Did you know that the Miami-Dade Public Library System offers a free home delivery service? Once you have a library card, they will mail books to your door for free. You simply log in through their website or app, request the books you want, and a few clicks later, they’re on their way. It’s easy, it’s free, and it’s an amazing way to support your community. Because using your library doesn’t just save you money, it helps keep libraries funded and ensures resources stay available for everyone. So go ahead and get a library card and think of it as your passport to endless summer adventures.
Some books touch on important but sensitive topics—like historical injustices, discrimination, or real-life hardships. These stories are usually told in a thoughtful and age-appropriate way, but they might bring up big questions or difficult conversations. Parents should be ready for these discussions. While we believe these stories present historical realities in a thoughtful and meaningful way, we understand that interpretations may vary and we respect that perspectives on sensitive topics can differ.
We always recommend that parents check out books first to make sure they’re a good fit for their kids. Every reader is different, and what works for one child might not for another. Taking a quick look ahead of time helps make sure the story matches your family’s values and your child’s emotional maturity. Happy reading!
THE BOOK WITH NO PICTURES BY B.J. NOVAK
Children’s Picture Book | Young Readers (Ages 4-8)
Most kids assume a book without pictures must be boring, like getting a cake with no frosting. But The Book with No Pictures pulls off a magic trick: it makes words so funny that kids forget they wanted pictures in the first place. The whole gimmick is that whoever’s reading it has to say whatever is on the page, no matter how ridiculous. Perfect for ages 4 to 8, this book is a brilliant way to show kids that reading can be fun. Introducing humor through reading helps children realize that stories don’t need pictures to hold their attention, making them more open to trying text-heavy books in the future.
THE LEAF MEN AND THE BRAVE GOOD BUGS BY WILLIAM JOYCE Adventure Fiction | Young Readers (Ages 4-8)
Even the smallest creatures can make a big difference, especially when they work together. That’s exactly what happens in The Leaf Men and the Brave Good Bugs. An old woman has always told children that her garden is a magical place, but when she falls ill, it begins to wither. The bugs who call it home refuse to let their world crumble, so they band together on a daring mission to save it.
This beautifully illustrated story is about bravery, teamwork, and the power of even the smallest heroes to make a big impact. Strength isn’t about size—it’s about heart. Perfect for children ages 4 to 8, this is a great pick for kids who love adventure, fantasy, and rooting for underdogs. With its captivating story and meaningful message, this book will spark kids’ imaginations while teaching them about courage and perseverance.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced, inspiring sports novel, Ghost by Jason Reynolds is a great pick. The story follows Castle “Ghost” Cranshaw, a kid with natural speed but a troubled past. When he stumbles onto a track team, he gets a chance to turn his life around, but only if he can learn to stop getting in his own way. This book is more than just a sports story—it’s about perseverance, self-control, and finding a place to belong. While the story is uplifting, it does touch on some reallife struggles, including Ghost’s difficult home life, but these moments are referenced rather than graphically described.
A middle-grade book aimed at ages 10 to 14, Ghost has received numerous accolades, including being a National Book Award Finalist for Young People’s Literature (2016). It’s also the first book in Reynolds’ Track series, so if you love it, there’s more where that came from.
THE SMALL AND THE MIGHTY BY SHARON MCMAHON Historical Non-fiction | Middle-Age Readers (Ages 10-14), Teens, Young Adults & Adults
History isn’t just shaped by the big names we all know—it’s built by countless unsung heroes whose stories deserve to be told. The Small and the Mighty, highlights twelve remarkable Americans who made a real impact but don’t always get the recognition they deserve. What makes this New York Times bestseller stand out is McMahon’s engaging, conversational storytelling that makes history feel fresh and relatable rather than just a list of names and dates. Great for readers 10 and up, it’s a perfect pick for history buffs, educators, students, and families looking for an insightful summer read or a fresh perspective on history.
THE LITTLE PRINCE BY ANTOINE MARIE DE SAINT-EXUPÉRY
Some books grow with you, revealing new layers each time you read them. The Little Prince is one of those rare gems. On the surface, it’s a whimsical tale of a tiny prince who travels from planet to planet meeting quirky characters and learning life lessons along the way. But beneath the charming illustrations and simple prose is a deeply philosophical tale about love, loss, and seeing the world through the eyes of a child. This timeless classic is basically the literary equivalent of a Pixar movie— it’s fun and charming when you’re a kid, but surprisingly profound as an adult. It’s a reminder to stay curious, cherish real connections, and stop being such a Businessman counting stars.
HOW TO BECOME A STRAIGHT-A STUDENT BY CAL NEWPORT
Non-fiction,
Personal Development | Teens, Young Adults
If you want to get better grades without giving up your social life, check out How to Become a Straight-A Student by Cal Newport, a Georgetown professor and New York Times bestselling author. Based on interviews with top students at elite universities, Newport found that straight-A students don’t study more—they study smarter. His formula (Work Accomplished = Time Spent × Intensity of Focus) proves that success isn’t about long hours but about focused, efficient work. He debunks the myth that students lack time, showing that the real issue is how they use it. His time management system helps students avoid cramming, stay ahead of deadlines, and reduce stress, making it just as valuable for high schoolers as for college students.
If you’re a high school student aiming for competitive colleges, check out Newport’s How to Be a High School Superstar, which focuses on standing out in admissions without burnout. For incoming or current college students, How to Win at College offers insights on building strong habits, relationships, and a well-rounded college experience.
THE WOMEN BY KRISTIN
HANNAH
Historical Fiction Novel | Teens, Young Adults & Adults
The Women isn’t just a novel—it’s a full-on emotional rollercoaster that also happens to teach history without making it feel like homework. Through the eyes of an idealistic, naïve young nurse, you’re thrown headfirst into the chaos of the Vietnam War. Even if historical fiction isn’t your thing, don’t let that stop you. At its heart, The Women is a coming-of-age story about a young woman discovering resilience, friendship, and love—only to return home to a country that wants to forget the war ever happened.
It’s also a powerful look at the emotional and psychological toll of war, shedding light on PTSD and the long, messy road to healing. While the book is appropriate for mature teens, it deals with serious topics like war, death, trauma, and addiction. Yes, it’s a long read—but it’s worth every page. By the end, you won’t just have learned something about history; you’ll feel like you lived through it…from the safety of your couch, of course.
THE OBSTACLE IS THE WAY BY RYAN HOLIDAY
Non-fiction,
Self-Help | Teens, Young Adults & Adults
Setbacks happen—bad grades, injuries, rejections—but what if you could turn those problems into opportunities? In The Obstacle Is the Way, Ryan Holiday takes the ancient philosophy of Stoicism and makes it practical, showing how history’s most successful athletes, entrepreneurs, and world leaders used it to overcome difficulties and thrive. Drawing from Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius’s wisdom, Holiday argues that obstacles aren’t roadblocks—they’re the way forward. He teaches you how to control what you can, let go of what you can’t, and keep moving, a mindset embraced by coaching legends like Bill Belichick and Pete Carroll to build mental toughness. But even if you’re not aiming for the NFL, this book will help you handle challenges like a pro. For more on self-discipline and longterm success, check out Holiday’s Discipline Is Destiny.
ATOMIC HABITS BY JAMES CLEAR
Non-fiction, Self-Help | Teens, Young Adults & Adults
Starting a new habit sounds easy, but actually sticking to it feels impossible! You tell yourself, this is the week I stop scrolling before bed! But next thing you know, it’s midnight and you’re watching a video about the history of rubber bands. If you want to break this vicious cycle, check out Atomic Habits
Unlike other self-improvement books that yell at you to “be more disciplined,” Atomic Habits breaks down the science of habit formation into simple, practical steps that work. It’s not about making huge, impossible changes overnight—it’s about tiny changes that compound over time and lead to big results. Clear’s system is built on four key principles: make good habits obvious, attractive, easy, and satisfying; and do the exact opposite for bad habits. One of his best tricks is habit stacking, where you attach a new habit to something you already do. By linking habits together, they become automatic, making it easier to stay consistent. These strategies help you set up your environment for success, so willpower isn’t even necessary.
Atomic Habits is practical, backed by science, and actually works. No vague motivational fluff, just clear, actionable strategies that help you make lasting changes. There’s a reason it’s been #1 on the New York Times bestseller list for five years straight—it delivers results.
MAN’S SEARCH FOR MEANING BY VIKTOR FRANKL
Non-fiction, Memoir | Young Adults & Adults
Man’s Search for Meaning will change how you see the world. Written by Viktor Frankl, an Austrian psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor, this book is part memoir, part philosophy, and a wake-up call about what matters in life. It chronicles Frankl’s time in Nazi concentration camps and the mindset that helped him endure, offering a powerful guide to finding meaning—even in the worst circumstances.
Frankl argues that meaning, not happiness, is the key to a fulfilling life. Suffering is inevitable, but what defines us is how we respond. He identifies three sources of meaning: work (doing something significant), love (caring for others), and courage in difficult times. It’s a short book, but it will stick with you forever.
Whether you’re a student facing a big life transition, a parent guiding their child, or just someone wondering what am I even doing with my life?, this book will help you realize that meaning isn’t something you stumble upon—it’s something you create. While deeply inspiring, it does include descriptions of suffering and death in Nazi concentration camps, though not in graphic detail.
BY MEL ROBBINS Non-fiction, Personal Development | Young Adults & Adults
If you’ve ever exhausted yourself trying to control things—or let’s be honest, people—The Let Them Theory is the mindset shift you didn’t know you needed. In her signature no-nonsense, relatable style, motivational speaker Mel Robbins explains why we waste so much energy on things we can’t control, and how freeing it is to simply let them be.
Rather than overthinking and people-pleasing, this book teaches you how to focus on what matters. Through real-life examples and practical strategies, you’ll learn to stop seeking validation, set boundaries without guilt, and confidently make your own choices. This mindset also helps make it easier to get along with people who see the world differently. Instead of letting your blood pressure spike during Thanksgiving dinner debates, you’ll learn to accept differences, find common ground, and save your energy for things you can actually control.
The Let Them Theory is a perfect read for students learning to stand strong in their own beliefs instead of following the crowd, aspiring entrepreneurs ready to trust their instincts, or parents letting go of stress and giving their newly independent college-age kids room to grow.
