SWFL Parent & Child Magazine - January 2018

JANUARY 2018

S W F L PA R E N T C H I L D. C O M

Healthy Moms Healthy Babies Healthy Families

www.ppcswfl.com | 239.275.5522

Color the PPC Pals, then bring them into your doctor’s office where we will display them, or use to decorate in your own home.

www.ppcswfl.com | 239.275.5522 SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » JANUARY 2018 » 3

Barbra J. Reed, D.M.D., M.S., P.A. Specialist in Orthodontics • Braces for Children & Adults

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East of I-75 off Immokalee Road, Exit #111 Next to Bob Evans DISCLAIMER: FLORIDA LAW REQUIRES THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS THE RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL APPOINTMENT OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT WHICH IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATIONS, OR TREATMENT.

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HISTORY & SCIENCE CENTER

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CODE: P&C17

contents »

swfl

parent&child

47

39

Features

In Every Issue

29 meet sophia The Fort Myers girl talks about her role on Nickelodeon’s “I Am Frankie”

33 school choice How to improve your chances of getting the school you want

9

On the cover Sophia Forest, 12, of Fort Myers, first appeared on the cover of SWFL Parent & Child in 2015. She’s back with a role on Nickelodeon’s “I Am Frankie.”

S W F L PA R

ENTCHILD

.COM

JANUARY

25 kid stuff

Picking a high school?

Times have changed.

African penguins visit our piece of paradise

17 ask the expert

27 teens

What do you do when the dentist wants to sedate your child?

39 save time Make life in 2018 a bit easier with these 5 ways to cut chores in half

a mother’s view

The student becomes the teacher of tech

41 safety corner

19 single parenting

Talking with your kids about drugs and alcohol

A father’s view of raising kids alone

47 travel

20 in the kitchen

A different kind of all-inclusive vacation: the dude ranch

Start a year of healthy eating and healthy cooking

23 dining out

57 voices

Stroll through Boston at Lansdowne Street in Bonita

2018

I made time slow down

58 a father’s view

24 youth sports

The 5K upset

PHOTO BY AMANDA INSCORE

Don’t “should” on your kid; here’s why

Other Departments 7 8 11 13

editor’s note online me time 5 things

14 42 50 51

fyi family album around town calendar

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » JANUARY 2018 » 5

LET’S MAKE 2018

Make a resolution to take the best possible care of your skin. Start by scheduling your first annual skin exam by a board-certified Pediatric and Adult Dermatologist.

Protect yourself by minimizing sun exposure and applying a broad-spectrum SPF sunscreen daily. And see us for corrective therapies the minute you notice even a minor symptom or change in your skin. If you have the basics covered, expand your regimen with our cosmetic and aesthetic services all year round.

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Pediatric Dermatology | Teen Skin | Facial Rejuvenation Skin Cancer Screening & Treatment | Anti-Aging Ethnic Skin | Men’s Therapies | Skin Care Products NP-0000952291

6 » JANUARY 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

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parent &child

editor's note »

swfl

S W F L PA R E N T C H I L D. C O M

Part of the USA TODAY Network

Volume 19, Issue 1 Dedicated to serving the families of Lee and Collier counties 2442 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Fort Myers, FL 33901 swflparentchild.com Annual subscriptions are $24.95 for shipping & handling. Email mcordero@fortmyer.gannett.com.

President & Publisher William R. Barker General Manager Kathryn Robinson Kinsey kathryn@swflparentchild.com Editor Pamela Smith Hayford (239) 335-0448 pamela@swflparentchild.com Art Director Lindi Daywalt-Feazel

Editorial Contributors Patricia Carlson, Cathy Chestnut, Deborah Comella, Echo Copeland, Jim Dwyer, Kira Lewis, Sarah Lyons, Janis B. Meredith, Dr. Tamara K. Robison, Angelica Sereda, Francine Wolfe Schwartz, Andrea Stetson Photographer Amanda Inscore Vice President/Advertising Sales Nancy M. Solliday Specialty Publications Team Coordinator Dennis Wright dennis@swflparentchild.com Advertising Account Executive Nicole Holey (239) 281-6455 nholey@fortmyer.gannett.com

New year, new me We hear it all the time: Setting goals is vital to accomplishing goals. Whether it’s starring in a television show on your favorite channel, like Sophia Forest of Fort Myers (see page 29), or spending more quality time with your kids, stating your goals makes them more likely to happen. I recently gained a new perspective on goals from a Living Well Spending Less webinar on productivity by Ruth Soukup.

We wrote about her in November 2014 when she was blogging from her home in Punta Gorda. She had accomplished her goal of making a living from her blog, so much so that her husband quit his job to be home with the kids. Now she has a staff. At first, I thought the webinar was just about selling her new planner, but it was also about setting goals and then using those goals to set your priorities each week, each day. Afterward, something transformed in my mind. Within 24 hours, I had my big goals on paper and started writing my to-do lists with them in mind.

Together, it all acts like a road map. Setting priorities and using those priorities to schedule my time. It’s as simple as that. I’m sure it will get tougher. But I already feel closer to meeting my goals, and that’s worth something as we start the new year. May all our New Year’s resolutions come true.

Distribution (239) 335-0211 Southwest Florida Parent & Child is a FREE publication distributed at more than 500 locations throughout Southwest Florida by The News-Press Media Group. All rights reserved. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information published but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from omissions or errors. Any opinions expressed by writers and advertisers are not necessarily opinions of the magazine or publisher.

Member of

Pamela Smith Hayford, Editor Contact us: We enjoy hearing from you. Send your photos, letters or comments to: pamela@swflparentchild.com. Or visit us online:

swflparentchild.com

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » JANUARY 2018 » 7

» online

swflparentchild.com Get the latest event information and family news every day at swflparentchild.com.

What’s your New Year’s resolution?

More family events

We’re all about setting goals. It’s how you keep your eye on the finish line, right? But often we have trouble coming up with tangible, doable goals, or we have trouble keeping our resolutions. Perhaps we can learn from each other. Tell us about your New Year’s resolution (any of our social media pages will do) and how you plan to stick to it.

Miss an issue? SWFL Parent & Child magazine is available in its entirety online along with back issues, too. Looking for free kids’ meals? Check out our November issue. Looking for afterschool programs? Look into the August issue. Just visit swflparentchild.com, look for the big pink P&C circle and click on it (works with mobile, too).

Like us at facebook. com/swflparentchild

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Follow us at @swflparentchild

We highlight the best weekend events for you every week on swflparentchild. com, part of the USA Today Network. You’ll never be bored again.

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Kira Lewis of Cape Coral is mom to two children, a writer and founder of calmandchaosmama.com and sunshineandhurricanes.com.

a mother’s view »

K IR A LE WIS

There’s no place like…high school 2018.

This is the year my first born will go to high school.

I keep repeating it, hoping maybe the more I say it, I’ll actually start to believe it.

Because right now, I’m not sure how we got here so fast. Or more importantly, how I could possibly be old enough to have a child going to high school, when I feel like I just left there myself a few days ago.

One thing I’m learning as we started this process last fall is that times have changed.

Boy, have they changed.

When most of us were growing up, you went to the high school that was the closest to your home. That was it. End of story. There was nothing to really think about, no tours to go on except for freshman orientation, no applications, no tests to take.

For the few who went to some kind of private school, maybe it was a little different, but in most cases those kids had been going to private school for years.

So, just like us public school kids, they pretty much knew where they’d be going to high school from the moment they stepped foot into kindergarten.

This is definitely not the case anymore. Not in Lee County.

I’ll never forget the text a friend sent me two years ago, as she sat in one of the high school open house presentations for her then eighth-grade daughter, “Dorothy, we are definitely NOT in Kansas anymore.”

I laughed, but little did I know how right she was.

Going to high school these days has become almost as complicated as a trip to Oz. And you’ll definitely need all the brains, courage and heart you can find along the way.

As soon as your child finishes seventh grade, the recruiting begins. Postcards arrive with invitations to open houses, tours and shadow days. You’re suddenly trying to learn a whole new vocabulary of academic buzzwords, like IB, Capstone, Dual Enrollment, AICE, AP, STEM, Collegiate High Schools and Academy Programs.

You start to feel like a combination of personal secretary and agent for your child as your calendar fills with activities, test dates and application deadlines, oh my. And if private school enters the picture, you’re also going to need a forensic accounting degree to fill out the financial aid forms.

It’s hard to decide if all this “choice” is a good thing or not.

On one hand, recognizing that kids

have different strengths and interests and developing educational programs that address this reality seems incredibly forward thinking.

But it also feels like we’re putting more pressure on kids (and parents) to decide earlier the whole trajectory of their life. There’s almost this sense that if you pick the wrong high school or they don’t get into a specific program or maybe if they just don’t know for sure what they want, then their whole future is at risk.

These are 13- and 14-year-old kids.

Did you have your whole life mapped out at that age? I sure didn’t. I’m not even entirely sure I do now at 43.

I think with all this high school hoopla, we’ve created our own version of “The Wizard of Oz.” We’re all searching for the ruby red slippers that will magically transport our children to a life of guaranteed success. But we’re forgetting the movie was never really about the slippers, it was about the journey.

Dorothy had the power all along to get where she was meant to be, but she had to travel down that yellow brick road to learn it for herself.

The same is true for our kids. We can point them in the right direction, but ultimately finding where they belong is up to them.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » JANUARY 2018 » 9

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me time »

Resolve to get some

ZZZ’s Nighttime routines are said to help our kids sleep better. Same is true for ourselves.

Incorporate these great finds to help ease yourself into sweet slumber.

Keep your cool

Sleepy time for mommy

Put away those flannel Christmas pajamas and slip into Cool Nights.

This boxer short set with three-quarter sleeve top is made with breathable fabric to keep you cool and dry on a warm Florida night. $60 list price at soma.com.

Smooth on this pale purple lotion and breathe in its lavender and tonka bean scent to relax and wind down before bed. Sleepy body lotion from Lush is made with all-natural ingredients. $9.95 for 3.1-ounce, $19.95 for 7.4-ounce at lushusa.com and all North American locations.

Create a sanctuary

DATE

NIGHT

Make your room a place of comfort and give your bedroom décor an update with this cotton LC Lauren Conrad Bloom duvet cover set. $119.99-$209.99 list price at kohls.com.

Slip into silk Slip, the company that spent 10 years developing and refining the perfect silk pillowcase to reduce nighttime tugging on the delicate skin of the face and neck, has put that technology into a 100-percent pure silk sleep mask. So while you’re blocking out sleep-disturbing light, you’re also protecting your youthful appearance. $45 at slipsilkpillowcase.com, sephora.com, anthropologie.com and bloomingdales.com, among others.

Party on the beach. The Friends of Lovers Key is planning an island night of dinner, drinks and dancing on the sand, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, January 18, at Lovers Key State Park. You’ll still be home in time to get a good night of sleep. (Are we creeping uncomfortably close to retiree life? Eh. Go with it!) Johnny Caribe is set to perform tropical music. Texas Tony’s is to cater the barbecue dinner of ribs, chicken and pulled pork. Proceeds go toward building the Environmental Education Center at Lovers Key State Park. Cost is $50 per person. RSVP to 513-503-8750 or beachparty@friendsofloverskey.org.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » JANUARY 2018 » 11

24TH ANNUAL STORYBOOK BALL

J�n us at The St�yb�k Ball, the signat�e event of R�ald McD�ald H�se Ch�ities® of S�thwest Fl�ida Honoring Kathy Bridge-Liles Saturday, February 17, 2018 | 6:00 p.m.

Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa 5001 Coconut Road | Bonita Springs Room Reservations 888.421.1442 Cocktail Reception I Silent & Live Auction I Dinner & Dancing I Black Tie

Reservations & Sponsorship Opportunities 239.437.0202 | info@rmhcswfl.org

12 » JANUARY 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

5 things »

Splish splash These are the bomb

The kids will be taking a bath without argument when you put these in the tub. Well, maybe.

SudPrize bath bombs come with a free app, SudBudz Run, an augmented reality world were children learn about animals and the environment.

A collectible card unlocks new characters and a special code is included to win prizes. (Just don’t let your child take electronic devices into the tub.)

Available in six colors and scents. $5.99 each, $29.95 for all six. Available at Target, Five Below, sudprize.com and amazon.com.

No bumps or burns Protect little bathers with the super soft Puj Snug spout cover. It’s soft and flexible, allowing it to fit most spouts, and it doesn’t absorb water, so mold and mildew isn’t a big concern. It’s made from the excess material reclaimed in the making of the Puj Tub, a soft foam that conforms to almost any sink for comfortable bathing. $9.99 at puj.com. The tub is $44.99 at puj.com and Twinkle Twinkle Little Store in Naples.

For sensitive skin

Is there a plumber in the house?

Pipe in a little bath time fun with Pipes from Boon.

Kids can arrange the five pieces — made without BPA or PVC — to create a chain reaction or use them individually. They stick to the wall via suction cup. $14.99 at booninc.com. Also available at Target, Toys R Us and Bed, Bath & Beyond.

Naples Soap Co. sells a natural unscented sea salt soap enriched with antioxidant-packed ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil to moisturize and soothe sensitive skin. $8.50 at Naples Soap Company or naplessoap.com.

Cozy like a fox Hooded towels allow you to instantly wrap your child in warmth after a bath or dip in the pool. $39.95 at landsend.com.

Personalization available.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » JANUARY 2018 » 13

PHOTOS SPECIAL TO SWFL PARENT & CHILD

« fyi

Child art entries sought for calendar contest Keep Lee County Beautiful Inc. is accepting submissions to its 29th annual art contest for students in Lee County. Kids create work with the theme of “Leave the Scene Clean,” and judges select 12 winners ($50 prize), one from each grade, and a cover winner ($500 scholarship prize) for the 2019 calendar. This year’s calendar is sold in schools and various community outlets. Proceeds benefit in-school environmental projects. Get details at klcb.org. Anyone interested in sponsorships may call 239334-3488.

It's Girl Scout dessert time

Camel rides, kittens and wild encounters Every day is hump day at the Naples Zoo. Camel rides have returned until May 8. A professional handler guides you and your camel along a private trail in the zoo. Rides are available 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost is $7 (in addition to regular zoo admission). The zoo also started offering close-up encounters with resident animals in a behind-thescenes program called Wild Encounters. And in December, a 6-month-old Florida panther named Athena moved in. The playful kitten had been abandoned in the Big Cypress National Preserve.

But now she’s home at the zoo. Get details at napleszoo.org.

We know that you know it’s Girl Scout cookie time. But did you know that Duffy’s Sports Grill restaurants in Florida created a S’mores Cupcake ($3.99) to help raise money for the Scouts? Beginning January 15, through February, Duffy’s is making the confection to benefit the Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida. Now, we realize that’s not our girls. (Our division is called Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida.) But the cupcakes look yummy just the same, and the proceeds go to help sister Scouts.

College money for your student

It’s time for college-bound kids to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. The FutureMakers Coalition is on a campaign to get more Southwest Florida kids than ever to fill out the forms. Research shows that the more students who fill out the FAFSA application, the more educated the workforce. The 2018-19 FAFSA application is available now and helps provide more than $150 billion in financial aid. Get details at futuremakerscoalition.com/fafsafirst.

14 » JANUARY 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

FREE PRESCHOOL North Fort Myers, Bonita Springs to get new libraries Construction has begun on the new Lee County Public Library at North Fort Myers. The 25,000-square-foot facility broke ground in late November and is expected to open in the summer of 2019. The $12.5 million cost is to be paid from existing library fund balances. While the new building is underway, a temporary location is at 50 Pine Island Road North in North Fort Myers. The library system is also planning to build a new library in Bonita Springs starting early this year.

Early Learning Coalition of SWFL can help your family with Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten If you live in Florida & your child turns 4 YEARS OLD by September 1, your child is eligible for the VPK program.

Some 5 year olds are also eligible.

For more information & to register your child: FamilyServicesFloridaEarlyLearning.com

www.elcofswfl.org Serving Collier, Glades, Hendry & Lee Counties | (239) 935-6100

Free sea school camps The Sanibel Sea School is launching free Community Camp Days this month. On days when schools are closed and it’s tough to find child care, Sanibel Sea School will host these one-day camps for ages 6 to 13 and Counselors In Training ages 13 to 17. Organizers say it’s their way of giving back to the community. The first Community Camp Day is Monday, January 15. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.

And to give more families a chance of attending, they’re limiting kids to two dates. Get details at sanibelseaschool.org, and register to communitycamp@sanibelseaschool.org.

Children's hospital named among top in nation The Leapfrog Group, a national hospital safety watchdog group, named the Golisano Children's Hospital of Southwest Florida as one of the nation’s 10 “Top children's hospitals” for the second year in a row. Golisano was among four Florida hospitals to make the list. Leapfrog determines top hospitals through a survey that reviews a range of criteria, including health centers’ rates of infections and injuries, staffing levels and procedures for ordering tests and medications.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » JANUARY 2018 » 15

« fyi

(continued)

Photo contest deadline nears

FILE PHOTO

The deadline for the fifth annual “Ding” DarlingTheodore Cross High School Photography Contest is January 15. Students from the five-county area can win prizes, such as a Canon camera package and field trips to the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island. Cross, who lived on Sanibel, marched with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., advised presidents on anti-poverty programs and wrote “Black Capitalism,” among others. He also loved nature, and created “Waterbirds: Portraits and Anecdotes from Birding Adventures.”

Entry rules are at dingdarlingsociety.org/ articles/photo-contests.

Playland gets makeover Miromar Outlets in Estero remodeled its play area, WINK Playland, over the holidays, adding climbing walls, learning activities and games for all ages. The remodel includes an exterior playground for ages 5 to 12 and the renovation of an existing area where toddlers can crawl and climb.

Verwest named among top dentists Pediatric Dentistry of Florida, Dr. Tim Verwest, in south Fort Myers, was named among the 10 best kid-friendly dentists in Florida by Best Things Florida, finishing in the No. 2 spot.

16 » JANUARY 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

ask the expert »

Dr. Tamara K. Robison is a board-certified pediatric dentist at Cosmic Smiles for Kids and Adult Dentistry in Naples and Marco Island.

DR . TA M A R A K . ROBISON

WHEN THE DENTIST RECOMMENDS SEDATION There are a few questions to ask before the procedure.

Photos by POLLY BLOOM PHOTOGRAPHY

H

as your child’s dentist informed you that your child’s extensive dental needs will require some sort of sedation or anesthesia? If a child suffers from severe anxiety or has special health care needs, this is something that might be necessary for safe and successful dentistry.

Medications given in the dental office for mild conscious sedation enable your child to relax and become a bit sleepy, allowing them to have an anxious-free dental visit. The child will be able to respond to those around them and will maintain all of their protective airway reflexes.

Children with severe anxiety might need to use stronger medicines to achieve a deeper level of sedation to allow for their dental work to be completed. In this case, deep sedation or general anesthesia may be provided in the dentist’s office. A dentist is likely to recommend deep sedation or general anesthesia when the child: » Has such severe anxiety that even with conscious sedation they cannot calm down enough to have work completed safely. » Requires oral surgery or other treatment that would be difficult for them to tolerate while awake. » Requires extensive work that will take a long time but would be best to ac-

complish in one appointment. » Has a disability that prevents them from clearly understanding directions or from being treated safely.

When deep sedation is necessary, a pediatric dentist will provide the dentistry and work with a medical anesthesiologist or a dentist who has completed an advanced anesthesiology program beyond

their pediatric residency. The pediatric dentist who provides these services in the dental office setting is responsible for the evaluation of the professional and educational qualifications of the general anesthesia or deep sedation provider. The office in which these services are provided also has to meet local, state and federal rules and regulations. A permit must be

ASK THE EXPERT We welcome questions from readers. Ask us anything. We’ll find the answer. Send your question to editor@swflparentchild.com with “Ask the Expert” in the subject line.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » JANUARY 2018 » 17

« ask the expert (continued)

supplied by the state authorities confirming that the facility has passed a physical inspection. The inspection confirms that all necessary emergency supplies are available and that the guidelines for monitoring and management of patients during and after the sedation are followed. The protection and safety of the patient are paramount. The regulations, inspections and permits help ensure the safe delivery of these services.

Deep sedation and general anesthesia do have some risks, and your providers need to carefully explain the risks and benefits. Parents also have responsibility to follow all instructions regarding not eating before the procedure and careful observation of the patient after the ap-

pointment.

The American Dental Association has a list of questions parents should ask their dental care provider prior to their child receiving sedation or anesthesia: » Who will complete the evaluation prior to the procedure that will include past medical history? » How long should my child be without food or drink prior to the procedure? » Will sedation be administered at home prior to the appointment? If so, what type of monitoring is required? » What is the training and experience of the person giving the sedation or anesthesia to my child? » Is the entire staff up to date on emergency resuscitation procedures?

» What level of sedation will be given to my child and what side effects can we expect from it? » How will my child be monitored before, during and after the procedure? » What are my instructions for caring for my child once we are released to home?

Anesthesia and conscious sedation are valuable tools for pediatric dentists to safely perform needed procedures on children who are nervous or who require extensive work. As with anything else, parents should be well-researched and prepared for their child’s visit. By working together with the dentist, they can ensure their child has a safe and successful dental appointment.

Come meet these playful African Penguins before they leave town!

At Naples Zoo now through April 15, 2018.

NAPLESZOO.ORG THESE BIRDS ARE ONLY IN TOWN UNTIL APRIL 15!

NP-0000945214

18 » JANUARY 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

single parenting »

Echo Copeland is a single mom who lives in Southwest Florida.

ECHO COPEL A ND

Profile of a single dad S Robert Elshot talks about raising four children as a single father.

ingle moms are quite easy to find. In a divorce, mothers tend to become the primary care giver. But don’t let that fool you. Single dads do exist, and seeing from all the viral videos of dads combing their kids’ hair or doing double duty as dad and mom with their children, there are quite a few of them around.

About 17 percent of single parents in the United States are men, that’s about 2 million single dads, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. A friend of mine is one of those dads. Robert Elshot has been raising his four angels for over a decade now, solo.

This man is in love with his children and is very hands-on with his double sets of boys and girls, as is evidenced by the way his voice lights up as he smiles from ear to ear, talking about his babies. He also takes great care of himself and is in awesome shape — surely that helps with the day-to-day marathon of raising four kiddos on his own.

He acquiesced to an interview, because his very nature is to help others. He wants other single dads and moms to know his joys and struggles as he meanders through life as a single dad. And I hope to bring you more single-parent profiles throughout the year.

EC: So, Robert, how did you become a single dad?

RE: I made the choice to raise my kids in a stress-free environment, where they feel more loved and also where my kids and I feel respected.

EC: What is the hardest part about

being a single father?

RE: At times, the financial aspect can become quite challenging.

EC: What is the best part?

RE: I have my mother helping a whole lot, and this makes it much easier. I can also spend more quality time with them.

EC: What misconceptions do people have about single fathers?

RE: I do believe that most people don’t realize that there are good men/ fathers out there. One of the biggest misconceptions is that we only want the children because we don’t want to pay child support. This isn’t true.

EC: As a single dad, how and when do/did you start dating? How has your dating life changed?

RE: Dating began about a year after I separated from my children’s mother. It has changed somewhat, making me sort of hesitant about jumping into another relationship.

EC: What sacrifices must you make?

RE: Take off from work, or make continuous changes to our schedules.

EC: Although the mother, for the most part, is not involved in your children’s lives, how do you create a co-parenting plan?

RE: I leave the option open for my kids’ mother to see them, talk on the phone or via FaceTime and email. I leave options open, because I want my kids to know who she is and formulate their opinion of her for themselves.

EC: One struggle men have when raising daughters is doing hair. Have you had any problems?

RE: Oh no, that I’ve done from the time my girls were 2 years old. I still do it from time to time.

EC: What advice do you have to give other single dads?

RE: Love all your kids equally, and don’t be afraid to say “I love you” to not only your daughters, but your sons, too.

EC: What’s the best advice you ever received being a single dad?

RE: Give respect, get respect.

Talk to your kids and listen to their concerns.

EC: What should every single dad know about his kids?

RE: They are like sponges. Whatever they see you do, they will most likely do, too. You are their first teacher, so always set the example.

The time you put into your child now is the time they might put into you later in life.

EC: What skill should every single dad have?

RE: Every dad should know how to do domestic things like cooking and cleaning.

EC: What is your proudest moment being a single dad?

RE: Coming home from a long day and hugging them. Seeing them graduate, and grow before my eyes.

EC: What was the scariest moment being a single dad?

RE: Dropping them off at school on the first day.

EC: What matters most in your life now?

RE: Seeing them succeed in today’s society. Having them be safe and happy.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » JANUARY 2018 » 19

in the kitchen »

FR A NCINE WOLFE SCH WA RTZ

RECIPE FOR A

HEALTHY

I

n 10th grade while waiting at the school bus stop just about every morning, I was called “Bimbo the Elephant” by two football jocks. The name calling was demoralizing and devastating. Today it would be called bullying.

The truth is I was at least 20 pounds overweight for my height and one of the heaviest students in school.

The sad truth is my body, with its 20 pounds of extra mass, would hardly be noticed in school now because today 1 in 3 American children is overweight or obese. Based on today’s statistics, I

20 » JANUARY 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

would not be alone. Childhood obesity is now the No. 1 health concern among parents in the United States, topping drug abuse and smoking, according to the American Heart Association.

Along with the physical complications of obesity, the emotional consequences are just as devastating, if not more so. Awareness of the impact of weight on self-esteem is crucial. Overweight children, teens or even adults can develop life-threatening eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia, and in some cases these issues may lead to suicide.

It is hard to ignore the statistics.

Obesity is an epidemic with children (and adults) that has no instant cure.

GETTY IMAGES

Quick meals can also be healthy.

Unless confronted, the physical complications of childhood obesity will cause the United States life expectancy to fall in the coming years.

For the first time in modern history, the next generation will have shorter and less healthy lives than their grandparents.

We can play the blame game with the fast food industry, video games, over-scheduled families with no time to cook and limited knowledge of healthy eating. But the truth is there is no quick fix and it’s counterproductive to play the game. It takes a commitment from you and your child to take small steps. Let’s start here and now toward a healthier lifestyle in 2018.

Francine Wolfe Schwartz is a food and consumer product consultant in Southwest Florida.

B Healthy, Active & Playful

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What is considered obese?

The National Institutes of Health defines obesity as a Body Mass Index of 30 and above. (A BMI of 30 is about 30 pounds overweight.) Some very muscular people may have a high BMI without undue health risks.

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TIP: Pull out your slow cooker and leave it on the kitchen counter. Use it to prepare easy meals that are ready to eat when you arrive home after busy school days. The easy clean-up is an added bonus for extra time for a family walk.

Greek Chicken with Lemon Potatoes Makes four servings INGREDIENTS » 1 medium onion, sliced » 1 pound of russet potatoes, cut into 2-inch pieces » 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth » 2 tablespoons dried oregano, divided in half » 1-3 pounds chicken cut into quarters, skinless preferred » 1 teaspoon garlic powder » Juice of one lemon (about 1/2 cup) » 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)

DIRECTIONS In the bottom of a large slow cooker, add onion slices, potato pieces, chicken broth and 1 tablespoon dried oregano, stir to combine.

Lay chicken quarters over potatoes and sprinkle with garlic powder and lemon juice.

Cover and cook 9-10 hours on low or until potatoes are fork tender and chicken is cooked. Sprinkle parsley over top and serve with cooked brown rice and a green vegetable.

SOURCE: recipes.heart.org

Diseases that can result from being overweight » Diabetes » High blood pressure » Heart disease » High cholesterol levels » Kidney failure » Stroke » Orthopedic issues (damage to joints can require knee and hip replacement)

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« in the kitchen (continued)

Slow Cooker Black Bean Chili Cocoa powder is generally thought of as an ingredient used in cakes and cookies but in savory dishes it’s used to bring out a deep rich flavor of spices. Note this recipe uses unsweetened cocoa powder.

Serves 6 to 8 INGREDIENTS » 2 tablespoons olive oil » 1 large onion, diced » 1 medium red bell pepper, cored, seeded and diced » 3 cloves garlic, minced » 2 tablespoons unsweetened natural cocoa powder » 2 tablespoons chili powder » 2 teaspoons ground cumin » 1 teaspoon kosher salt » 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper » 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper » 1 pound dried black beans » 1 (28-ounce) can diced fireroasted tomatoes » 5 cups (40 ounces) lowsodium vegetable (or chicken) broth » Green onions, green parts only, thinly sliced (optional) » Chopped fresh cilantro (optional) » Corn tortillas for serving DIRECTIONS Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook,

22 » JANUARY 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

stirring occasionally, until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, cocoa powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper and cayenne. Stir until combined and cook for 2 minutes. Transfer to a 6-quart or larger slow cooker.

Add the beans, tomatoes and their liquid, and broth, and stir to combine. Cover and cook on the low setting until the beans are tender, 8 to 10 hours. Stir to combine. Ladle into bowls, and top with scallions and cilantro.

NOTES Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or in the freezer for up to three months.

Make ahead: The onions, peppers and spices can be sautéed up to a day in advance, stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, then added directly to the slow cooker.

SOURCE: thekitchn.com

dining out »

A taste of Mexico

Restaurant’s atmosphere and menu salute Beantown legacy. BY ANDREA STETSON It lA taste of Mexico [DEK] Cape Coral’s Mexico Lindo serves it up right.

By Ann M. O’Phelan Warm chips and fresh salsa, along with freshly made guacamole — it’s my version of comfort food, a delicious version found at Mexico Lindo Restaurant in Cape Coral. It opened on Del Prado in September 2016.

Mexico Lindo offers delicious Mexican dining and an authentic feel. There are dark

wood-carved booths, colorful wall décor and comfy seating, along with an extensive menu of enchiladas, burritos, chimichangas and fajitas.

I had dined at Mexico Lindo a few times in the evening, and enjoyed the experience thoroughly, especially the mariachi guitar player. I recently stopped in on a weekday lunch, with my own kids and a variety of family members who were in from out of town with their own kids.

Lunch is a great time to dine out with kids, because the lunch crowd often has plenty of families, and lunch menus offer great deals that can help with the budget.

We were welcomed right away and promptly seated. Before we knew it, a bowl of warm chips and salsa was set before us.

This kept the young ones occupied, so the adults could ponder the lunch menu.

The first thing we ordered was the tableside guacamole. This festive table-side demonstration shows just how guacamole is made. Ripe avocados are mixed with goodies like tomatoes, onions and cilantro to transform into the perfect “chip dip.”

We decided to split a few dishes, so we could dazzle our taste buds a bit. We ordered an Extreme Quesadilla ($12.49) with a blend of cheeses, Laredo Tacos with chicken (three

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« youth sports

Janis B. Meredith, a coach’s wife for 29 years and sports mom for 21 years, lives in Alva, where she writes about character in youth sports on JBMThinks.com.

JA NIS B. MER EDIT H

Don’t ‘should’ on your kids

Instead, banish these 10 detrimental phrases from your youth sports vocabulary

24 » JANUARY 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

GETTY IMAGES

M

y husband-coach always told our three kids to never “should” on themselves, because it never did them any good after the fact.

I should have caught that ball. I should have passed that test.

Why do we “should” on ourselves anyway? Why do we “should” on our kids? Perhaps it’s a gentler, albeit just as pointless, way of assigning blame, which somehow seems to soothe our sports parenting frustration.

Youth sports is full of shoulds, most of them useless and even harmful. Let’s work on getting rid of these: » You should have tried harder. » You should have worked more in practice. » You should have complained to your coach during the game about your playing time. » You should listen to me from the sidelines; I know what I’m talking about. » You should work as hard as soand-so on your team. » You should take the game more seriously. » You should be farther along than you are.

» You should take control of the team. You’re the best player. » You should have won that game. » You should be ashamed of how you played.

Let’s work on replacing should with encouragement, helpful feedback and perhaps a little less intensity about the game.

Believe me, as your child grows up and continues playing, the competition will naturally intensify without your help. Be the parent who enjoys the game, encourages your kids to learn

from mistakes and allows them to really have fun.

Shoulding on your kids or yourself, for that matter, is just another way of living in the past, instead of focusing on tomorrow. Shoulds never accomplished anything but feelings of shame and regret. Should won’t help your kids become better; they just cause them to feel defeated.

Kids tend to should on themselves enough without you adding to their burden.

kid stuff »

PENGUINS

VISIT PARADISE These particular penguins prefer a perfectly chilled 67 degrees in their pool.

PHOTOS PROVIDED NAPLES ZOO

STORY BY ANDREA STETSON

T

hey don’t live in Antarctica. They certainly don’t live near polar bears. But, like their cold-weather cousins, African penguins are facing the same threat: loss of food sources.

It’s all this important information that the Naples Zoo wants visitors to learn during the six months that four African penguins are visiting the facility. The traveling exhibit from Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park in Fort Walton Beach will be on display at the Naples Zoo until April 15.

These black-and-white creatures are native to the rocky coastline and islands of South Africa and Namibia. While they don’t like icy water, the 3,000-gallon pool in their enclosed habitat is a chilly 67 degrees.

“It’s too cold for me, but they seem to like it,” says Liz Harmon, director of animal programs for the zoo.

Squirt, 24, and Sal, 14, are a mated pair that like to cuddle in the second level rocky crevice of the display. Missy, 10, and Tubbs, 13, usually occupy the bottom left area. The zoo is hoping for a romance between those two. Missy, at 4 pounds, is the smallest. Tubbs, at 7 1/2 pounds, is the largest, and he lives

IF YOU GO What: African Penguins • Where: Naples Zoo, 1590 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples • When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; keeper talks take place at 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. at the penguin exhibit. • Cost: Included with admission, which is $22.95 for adults, $14.95 for children, free for residents of Collier County on the first Saturday of the month. Save $1 on adult and $2 on children’s tickets by purchasing online. • Extra: Penguin Encounters, a behind-the-scenes one-hour tour, is available daily at 1 p.m. Cost is $85 for members and $95 plus zoo admission for non-members.

• Details: napleszoo.org and napleszoo.org/wildencounters

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » JANUARY 2018 » 25

« kid stuff (continued)

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up to his name, eating about 32 fish a day. The penguins eat capelin, a small forage fish similar to sardines.

Children love watching the penguins swim, waddle and cuddle. But the zoo says it’s a lot more than entertainment. African penguins are endangered in the wild. A century ago there were about a million breeding pairs.

Now there are only about 25,000 pairs. On the wall beside the exhibit is a large chart about Seafood Watch. It shows people how to use an app to find out if the fish people purchase has been caught or farmed using sustainable methods.

“Overfishing is their largest problem,” Liz says. “Right now overfishing has severely limited their food.”

Just outside the exhibit is an oil spill station where kids can dip feathers in oil and wash it off with Dawn. There’s a replica of a nest box and a matching game for additional information.

“It is important to instill at a young age that they can make a difference with conservation,” says Courtney Jolly Goff, spokesperson for the Naples Zoo. “They can make a difference. Even a 5-year-old can.”

Children say they’re learning a lot from the exhibit.

“They like to eat fish, and they eat only fish,” said Thomas Sroka, 7, on a visit from Buffalo, New York.

“The bears and the penguins both eat fish,” added his sister Eleanor, 4.

Tiffany Smith and her son Oliver, 18 months, of Marco Island, watched the penguins preen their feathers.

“We definitely came to see the penguins,” Tiffany said.

“And the lions and tigers, too.”

The traveling exhibit is part of a program dubbed SAFE, for Saving Animals From Extinction.

“These are one of the first species AZA (American Zoo Association) is working with,” Liz says.

While all penguins are native to the Southern Hemisphere, only the emperor and Adélie penguins live on the continent of Antarctica. Chinstraps and gentoos live near Antarctica. Other species live in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and around the coast of South America and the Galápagos Islands.

“People are not aware that they are warm weather animals,” Liz says about the African penguins. “And some people think they live with polar bears, and that is opposite continents. We want them to know there are penguins in Africa. They are not being eaten by polar bears. They are from Africa.”

Guests can get closer to the African penguins and feed one in a program called Wild Encounters. The daily tour is limited to four people ages 12 and older. You can meet the keeper, learn how they care for penguins and help with the feeding. There are also Wild Encounters programs for the Florida panther, giant anteater and honey badger.

“It’s pretty neat,” Courtney says. “They have been selling very well.”

teens »

TECH JOB FOR TEENS

Collier County libraries employ teenagers to teach technology to older adults. STORY AND PHOTOS BY ANDREA STETSON

T

ech savvy teens are saviors for seniors in a library program that employs teens to help customers learn how to use various electronic devices and apps. Most of the branches of the Collier County public library system have the Library Electronic Assistance Program.

“It’s been a godsend for me,” says Kathleen Sheehan, who comes weekly to the headquarters branch for help with her new iPad. Kaitlyn Kugel, 17, has taught Kathleen a variety of things from how to use her clock and

calendar apps to how to use Safari to find out information about travel, medical issues, hobbies and interests.

“We got a news app, because Kathleen is very interested in news,” Kaitlyn says.

Lee County does not have a LEAP program, but does assist with technology.

“We do have technologically adept volunteers on hand to help the public, even if we don’t have a specific teen and seniors program,” says Tim Engstrom, a spokesperson for the Lee County government.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » JANUARY 2018 » 27

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« teens (continued)

Kathleen has been meeting with Kaitlyn weekly for several months now. Each session lasts 30 minutes.

“When I first got this, I took it out of the box, and I knew I needed instruction,” Kathleen says. “I called the library to get the number for Apple, and they said, ‘We do tutorials here, and it’s free.’ Kaitlyn is great. She’s a 239.274.7743 natural.”

9021 Park Royal Drive Kaitlyn began working at the library in July and Fort Myers works 10 hours a week. She says it’s the perfect job, bewww.ppcswfl.com cause she can make her own hours, which is helpful for the Gulf Coast High School junior who plays baritone in the marching band and is a member of the Model United Nations team.

“For me I would probably be at the library anyway studying,” she says. “It will probably help me in the future. I like working with people. I have always been • Board Certified • New & Transfer Patients Welcome really interested in helping people. I also like meeting • Braces with Damon System • Digital X-Rays • In-Office Sedation: Nitrous, Oral and IV • Teeth Whitening new people and talking to people, especially older people; • Hospital Dentistry • Se Habla Español they have a lot to say. I learn from them, and they learn • No Interest Financing technology from me. I like technology. I am on my phone 24/7. It blends those things together. I grew up with Positive, Fun & Friendly Environment technology, so when the opportunity rolled around, I apOverhead TVs • Video Games plied and got the job.”

Treasure Chest • Toys Customers don’t need a library card to get help, 7117 Congdon Road, Suite 100 | Ft. Myers, FL 33908 and the assistance is free. All they have to do is call the (239) 418-1444 www.wheresmilesbegin.com branch they wish to go to and make an appointment.

They also need the make and model of the device they want help with.

“Some people come regularly, and some come just once to fix a problem,” Kaitlyn says.

Providing a challenging Most of her clients are senior citizens, and most just and innovative curriculum need help with basic usage, she says. The most common since 1989 things she’s asked to assist with are email, Windows 10, e-resources and information on what certain apps do.

Kaitlyn says she helps with technology about 75 percent of the time. The other 25 percent she helps with Building Faith, Hearts and Minds shelving books or other programs. She recently designed an escape room for teens at the library. At other libraries, LEAP teens have created videos and assisted in other creative ways. They also help with online e-book and e-audio programs, along with OverDrive, CloudLibrary and Hoopla. About 4,000 patrons were helped by LEAP teenagers last year.

Senior JROTC students at Island Librarian Rose LaBarge says LEAP is paid for Coast High School in Cape with book sale money and is available at most library Limited enrollment now from Coral warmbranches. up before Rose expects LEAP to be really popular this Raider practice.

Pre-K3 through Grade 8 month.

“When they (seniors) get these holiday gifts, we get Tuition Assistance available really busy,” she says.

Teenagers who want to apply for a LEAP job should go to colliergov.net and click on job opportunities and library. The job pays $10.56 an hour.

Candidate “I get so many applicants,” Rose says. “If they really want a job, they should volunteer first.”

School

IB

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28 » JANUARY 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

PHOTO BY AMANDA INSCORE

TESTY OF NI PHOTO COUR

CKELODEON

cover story »

BY CATHY CHESTNUT

Sophia Forest, 12, of Fort Myers, first appeared on the cover of SWFL Parent & Child in 2015. She’s back with a role on Nickelodeon’s “I Am Frankie,” which premiered in September.

Inset: The cast of “I Am Frankie.”

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » JANUARY 2018 » 29

PHOTO BY AMANDA INSCORE

Sophia started out in modeling, doing print work for Walmart, Canadian Tire and Monsoon. Here, she poses for us in downtown Fort Myers.

30 » JANUARY 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

cover story (continued) »

PHOTOS COURTESTY OF NICKELODEON

eels like things are getting real” is the opening line to the catchy theme song for Nickelodeon’s new show, “I Am Frankie.”

Sophia and her co-stars film scenes for "I am Frankie,"

A budding acting career has definitely gotten real for Sophia Forest, 12, of Fort Myers, who plays the younger sister to teen android Frankie, a topsecret invention adopted into the family to protect it from nefarious forces.

“I can be sarcastic at times and pretty sassy,” Sophia says of her character, Jenny Gaines. “My character is pretty smart. She loves to play video games. That’s something me and my character have in common — playing video games.”

The 20-episode show launched in September and has developed a strong following. Sophia heads back to Miami this spring to tape the second season.

It’s a wild dream-come-true for Sophia, who grew up a big fan of Nickelodeon. When she turned 2, the celebratory cake was “Backyardigans” themed. These days, she’s moved on to other Nick offerings: “School of Rock,” “Henry Danger” and “Game Shakers.”

“She really, really wanted to be on Nickelodeon,” says her mother, Gina Forest. “Since she was little, that’s what she watched and she wanted to be on it.”

That unexpected reality materialized quickly.

Through the years, Gina says, people consistently urged her to guide Sophia into modeling, even as a baby.

“When she got older — 4 and up — she loved singing and dancing around the house, and being the center of attention,” including making spy and princess movies with her brother, Gina says.

After Sophia turned 9, Gina reached out to a local photographer who was photographing local talent for a modeling manager on the east coast. Gina snapped some photos and submitted them to Soleil Kids in Miami, which “immediately wrote me back and picked her up,” Gina says. This led to a lot of print work for Sophia, including Walmart, Canadian Tire and the European clothing company, Monsoon.

Sophia was booked for several commercials for Michaels craft store and City Furniture, and in print and video promotions for Moon Palace Resort in Jamaica.

“Acting is what she wanted to do, but when she had the opportunity to model, we thought, ‘Well, this is a start. Let’s see where it takes us,’” Gina says.

Acting wasn't far behind. Sophia soon connected with the Stellar Talent Agency in Pembroke Park. After attending a casting call for “I Am Frankie,” Sophia was called in

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » JANUARY 2018 » 31

« cover story (continued) November 2016 to a test that mixed and matched different characters to run through parts to assess the chemistry and composition of the potential cast. Sophia learned a script but was told at the last minute it was being switched. She had to learn the new one on the spot.

Innately vibrant, Sophia was excited and confident going into the first round of the audition.

“I felt like I could get it. I liked this character I was auditioning for,” she says.

Hopefuls had come from far and wide.

The leading role, Frankie, is played by Alex Hook, a 16-year-old from Canada. Yet Sophia had been the only one chosen to test for the role of Jenny. “The casting director told me she was impressed with how well she did,” Gina says. “It all happened pretty fast.”

Sophia, right, with her onscreen mom, Dr. Sigourney Gaines, played by Carrie Schroeder, and Frankie Gaines, played by Alex Hook.

During filming, the duo relocated to a condo in Miami for three months. Sophia worked 10-hour days on the 17,000-squarefoot studio set, which included squeezing in 15 hours of mandatory schoolwork per week. But she has no complaints.

“It’s really fun because everything is so cool,” Sophia says, explaining how the “fourth wall” is missing to make room for cameras, and that the different sets — home interior, high school — are all sideby-side. “I never thought it would be like that,” muses Sophia, who was the youngest person on the set and in the building.

She learned how to execute a safe slipand-fall from a professional stunt person.

After filming in the day, the cast was given a call sheet detailing scenes for the next day’s production and new lines to learn, returning to their condo as late as 9 in the evening.

“I can memorize my lines pretty fast,” Sophia says.

The demanding schedule meant they turned to P.F. Chang’s microwavable meals (Sophia's favorite) and other conveniences more often than not.

“Nobody feels like cooking at 8 at night," Gina says.

32 » JANUARY 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

Sophia is home-schooled and this year is enrolled in Florida Virtual School. She has an older brother, Brandon Dusseault, 14, and little sister, Isabelle Forest, 6. Their father, Mark Forest, held down the fort during the filming.

He had flexibility in his sales career to work from home.

Mark’s parents will help while Gina and Sophia are in production for Season 2.

While in production this last year, Gina and Sophia often returned from Miami to spend time with the family and mini-pinscher, Monte, at home in the Fort Myers area on weekends. Or Mark and Sophia’s siblings would take a little trip to the east coast.

“I honestly think the biggest challenge was being away from my house, family and dog a long time,” Sophia says.

“My little sister always wanted to play with me while I was away filming. It made me sad sometimes.”

Sophia is bright and outgoing and likes to read action, adventure and mystery books. She readily shares what she’s reading these days — the Warriors cat and Serafina series. She’s “all about cats,” though Gina is allergic to them. She’s also been taking ballet lessons off and on since she was 4.

Will acting play a bigger role in her future?

“I honestly would like to pursue my acting. I hope I can keep it up for years to come,” Sophia says. “I would like to do movies and things like that.”

education »

What you need to know about

SCHOOL CHOICE

And how to improve your odds of receiving your No. 1 choice. BY ANDREA STETSON arissa and Joe Fricchione say one of the reasons they are moving into the Westbrook community this winter is its proximity to Three Oaks Elementary School in San Carlos Park.

Their 4-year-old daughter, Kinsley, starts kindergarten in the fall, and living within 2 miles of the campus puts her in a top prior-

ity ranking to get into the school.

“It was very important, because the school has a good reputation,” Marissa explains. “Everything I heard about it was wonderful, so I felt comfortable sending my child there. I wanted to feel comfortable with it, because it is kindergarten and her first time. It was important to live close, because I wanted to get her in there. It was the best choice for us.”

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » JANUARY 2018 » 33

» education (continued) The Lee County School District is divided into zones and subzones. In the district’s student assignment process, called School Choice, parents of incoming kindergartners and sixth- and ninthgraders and anyone new to the district must rank their choice of schools within their subzone and hope to get their first choice. Assignments are determined by lottery.

Last year, 82 percent of the students

34 » JANUARY 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

received their first choice, says Leila Muvdi, director of student assignment for Lee County Public Schools.

That means 18 percent of students didn’t receive their first choice.

But there are ways to increase the chances of success.

Families who live within 2 miles of a school and those who have a sibling at a school get top priority. Children who live within five miles of a school are in

a second tier of priority.

When the Fricchiones’ youngest daughter, Kylah, 2, is ready for kindergarten, she will be guaranteed a spot at Three Oaks if her sister is there. That is something new this year.

“Because you have siblings at that school, you are already assigned,” the director of student assignment says.

Those assignments were made in December before School Choice started.

If a parent does not want a sibling to attend the same school, they can go through the School Choice lottery.

“If they are happy with the assignment, they don’t have to do anything,” Leila explains. “If they are not happy with the assignment, they can come in and do another assignment.”

Another change this year is the district will stagger the mailing of printed applications for current students. The

printed application provides a number that allows a student to be registered online.

Under the new plan, printed applications will be sent to eighth-graders going into high school in the fall starting January 19. That will be followed by applications for children attending a district prekindergarten program on February 2. Fifth-graders heading to middle school will get their applications after February 9.

“I want to see if I can control how many people come in so we don’t have a waiting time of five hours,” Leila says.

The first day of open enrollment typically has long lines at the district offices, even though the district stresses that anyone who applies during the twomonth window has an equal chance.

“Even though I say that it is not first-come first-serve, they still think so,” Leila says.

In addition to helping families avoid lines, the printed application and online process comes with a bonus: You get to see the results a week earlier.

Only students who are new to Lee County Public Schools have to apply in person.

What stresses out many families, like the Fricchiones, is that if your No. 1 choice is not within the 2-mile top priority zone and you don’t have a sibling already in that school, there’s a chance you could be assigned to a school much lower on your list. Some families over the years have complained that instead

of getting their No. 2 choice, they end up with one of their last choices. Hence the Fricchione family’s move.

Leila declined to say which schools are the most popular and hardest to get into.

“It changes from year to year,” she explains. “Some years, one school is popular. The next year, it is not. It is like the flavor of the month.”

Students who don’t get their first choice can get on a waiting list.

“They get a number on the waiting list,” she says. “They don’t need to call us. We will call when they are No. 1 and there is a seat available.”

To have more information to help with the decision, parents can turn to the district personnel at the student assignment offices. Information such as number of students on a school’s waiting list in past years may be helpful. However, we recommend going in person as opposed to a phone call.

It also helps to attend each school’s open house, Leila says. The school closest to home, might not always be the best choice.

“It is about the child’s interests and needs,” Leila says. “Some like uniforms, some hate uniforms, some have beforeand after-school programs. There are interests or abilities that they want to pursue if their kid is artistic or technologically oriented. Some want enclosed hallways or open hallways. Everybody has their own idea of what is their ideal school. Some parents don’t care about

It changes from year to year. Some years, one school is popular. The next year, it is not.

It is like the flavor of the month.

— LEILA MUVDI

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » JANUARY 2018 » 35

» education (continued)

the closest schools. They have to research the whole thing and see what is best for their child.”

For example, if a parent wants their child in the International Baccalaureate program in elementary school, they would choose J. Collin English Elementary in North Fort Myers or Heights Elementary in south Fort Myers. For middle school, IB is offered at Lexington in south Fort Myers and Mariner in Cape Coral. In high school, it’s offered at Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Dunbar and Riverdale high schools. When selecting a high school, keep in mind that some programs, such as IB and arts magnet programs, have a separate application process that, if your student is accepted, supersedes School Choice. You can get more details about this at school open houses and at the district offices.

Another new addition to School Choice this year is the opening of Bonita Springs High School. It will house ninth- and 10th-graders in the fall and will add additional grades the following year.

In Collier and Charlotte counties, students attend their closest neighborhood school. Only students new to the school system need to register.

Students do not need to apply for School Choice unless they want to go to a different school.

“Currently, over 2,240 students (out of an overall population of approximately 15,100 students) have chosen a school within our district that is outside of their neighborhood’s geographic boundaries,” says Michael Desjardins, executive director of School Support Services for Charlotte County.

He recommends that, if parents choose a different school, they research important factors such as transportation and athletic eligibility.

36 » JANUARY 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

How to sign up for

SCHOOL

Registering for public school differs by county in Florida. Here’s what you need to know to sign up your child in Lee, Collier and Charlotte counties.

New students in any county will need to provide written proof of residence, proof of birth date and proof of immunization. A list of paperwork required is on each district’s website. This information focuses on School Choice:

LEE COUNTY » Online: leeschools.net/ studentopenenrollment » Timeframe: Open enrollment is January 22 to March 23. Prior to open enrollment, printed applications begin being mailed to parents of prekindergarten students who attend Lee County Public Schools and are eligible for kindergarten for 2018-19 (February 2) and current fifth-

(February 9) and eighth-grade (January 19) students who attend a Lee County school. » How it works: Lee County is divided into three zones: south, east and west.

Each zone is split into three subzones. Parents rank the schools in their subzone in order of preference. After open enrollment, students are placed in schools giving priority

to children with siblings in a school, proximity to school or special needs. The rest of the children are placed by random lottery. » Who must register: All incoming kindergartners, sixthand ninth-graders and anyone new to the district or students who want to switch schools.

Parents with applications can apply online or by mail. New

students to the county cannot apply online. » Where: • Fort Myers: 2855 Colonial Blvd. • Lehigh Acres: 1262 Wings Way, Suite 207 • Cape Coral: 370 Santa Barbara Blvd. N. » Call: 239-337-8247 in Fort Myers, 239-337-8347 in Lehigh Acres and 239-242-2059 in Cape Coral

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » JANUARY 2018 » 37

» education (continued)

COLLIER COUNTY » Online: collierschools.com/ parents » Timeframe: January 10 to February 15 for Out-of-Zone and School Choice requests; new students are encouraged to register in June and July. » How it works: In Collier County, students typically attend the school near their home. However, for

documented needs or hardships, families can make an Out-of-Zone request.

Families can also make a School Choice request, which does not require a need or hardship reason. Approvals are subject to capacity and classsize restrictions. Transportation is not provided by the district. » Who must register: Any student who is new to the

district, entering kindergarten or changing schools. » Where: All new students start the registration process online at collierschools.com/ registration. Out-of-Zone and School Choice requests are made at portal.collierschools. com/live » Call: 239-377-0540 » Note: McKay Scholarship

requests are for parents or legal guardians of students with an Individual Education Plan or 504 Plan. Parents or legal guardians must first apply online through the state for approval at floridaschoolchoice. org. Then they can apply online to request a public school transfer. Applications are accepted throughout the school year.

CHARLOTTE COUNTY » Online: yourcharlotteschools.net » Timeframe: School Choice applications are accepted in February and March. » How it works: In Charlotte County, students are assigned a zoned school. A student may attend a school outside their zone if the school is not already full. Any student

38 » JANUARY 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

currently on reassignment to a school other than their zoned school no longer has to renew the reassignment application.

Parents new to the county who missed the enrollment period and choose an out-of-district school for the next school year may apply. Michael Desjardins, director of Student Services, said there will be some changes to School Choice this

year; he recommends parents check the website for more information. » Who must register: Any student who is new to the district, entering kindergarten or changing schools. » Where: Incoming kindergartners and new students can register at the school; call the school for

an appointment. For School Choice, the reassignment process must begin at the school of residence.

Reassignment forms are available at any Charlotte County public school, the Charlotte County Public Schools Murdock Center or online. » Call: 941-255-0808

G

GES IMA TY T E

time-saver »

5 WAYS TO CUT

CHORES IN HALF Plus, seven ways to tame Mount Laundry. BY SARAH LYONS

ife as a parent is busy. We juggle work, errands, school activities and time with friends and family.

The last things we want to think about are household chores, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need our attention.

Here are some tips to cut chores in half:

1. Make a cleaning schedule A cleaning schedule helps assign time for chores to be completed without them imposing on our free time.

“I keep Mondays free of things we have to do outside the home,” says Jennifer Klindworth, mom to twin girls. “This

is when I get all the laundry done. I usually clean the house toward the end of the week so I can enjoy the weekend.”

Having a day set aside for certain chores helps organize the week, so that your to-do list doesn’t become overwhelming.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » JANUARY 2018 » 39

« time-saver (continued)

2. Get the kids involved Children can pitch in on chores at an early age. Preschoolers can dust floorboards and furniture, school-age children can load the dishwasher and help with laundry, and teens, with practice and guidance, can lend a hand in almost any area.

“I have the older two do daily chores to earn their allowance,” says Robin Proskovec. “They cannot do any electronics until they are done, so they are usually pretty motivated.”

Teaching kids to help with family chores not only keeps the house in order, but also has lasting value.

“Children over the age of 5 have daily chores,” says Krystal Laws, mother of seven. “We start with learning something simple, like putting T-shirts on hangers, folding towels or putting away silverware.

We rotate chores but try to help them progress in skill, too. The idea is that they are ready to take care of a household when they leave home.”

3. Keep up Do dishes and pick up clutter daily so the stacks don’t get out of control.

“My husband and I are both dedicated to taking the first 20 minutes after putting the kids to bed to cleaning up — dishes, floors, start a load of laundry and bathrooms on rotation,” says Helen Ransom.

Setting aside 15 to 20 minutes each day to maintain the house makes a huge difference. Those few minutes spent tidying up allow you to enjoy your downtime even more.

“If my kitchen is clean, I feel like I am ahead of the game,” says Kim Burnett, mom of two. “Every night before going to bed, I prep lunches for the next day, put away clean dishes and reload the dishwasher.”

It is much easier to maintain a clean house when you keep up on the items that pile up quickly but take little time to do each day.

40 » JANUARY 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

4. Do it now, not later As you walk in the door, automatically hang up your jacket and put your shoes away. As you prepare for bed, put dirty clothes in the hamper. After eating, immediately place dirty dishes in the dishwasher. By taking a few seconds to put things away as you finish with them, you save yourself the time it would take to do it later. A good rule of thumb is if it takes less than three minutes to do it, do it right away. And teach your kids to do the same.

5. Let expectations go a little Maintaining a clean house can be a challenge for a busy, active family on the go. There will always be toys to pick up, laundry and dishes to wash, and school papers to sort. Figure out the level of cleanliness you can comfortably live with and maintain it. For some, everything must be clean and put away, and for others, a little clutter makes us feel at home.

“Lower your expectations a little. Don’t stress over trying to make things perfect, because they never will be.” Krystal says.

By following these simple and realistic tips, you can cut your chores in half and start doing the things you enjoy.

How to tame y r d n u a L t n u o M asher is full to run

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safety corner » DEBOR A H COMELL A

That (other) important conversation

H

ere’s a scary fact for parents: In the past month, an estimated 10 million kids younger that the age of 21 drank alcohol in the United States. That’s 10 million!

Many parents are taking the time to talk with their kids about underage drinking, but for some of us, it’s a challenge.

Between school, after-school activities, work and the pressures of daily life, it can be hard to find time to talk.

Almost any activity can provide an opportunity to talk. Family dinners, rides to sports practice and shopping trips can all provide time for a conversation. Short talks are more effective than long ones. Use informal settings to find out what your child is seeing on the playground, what they are hearing from friends and what they are curious about. Parents need to share important facts about alcohol, and how it harms the brains of kids younger than 21. You can role play — set up situations where the child might encounter alcohol and give your kid a script to get out of the situation (“My mom would kill me!”).

Have a text message that means “Pick me up right away” that your child can use to safely get out of a situation that is making them unsafe or uncomfortable.

More resources

» The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration developed the “Talk. They Hear You.” app, which is a simple guide with countless resources for parents.

Learn more at samhsa.gov/ underage-drinking/mobileapplication. » Prevention resources are available at drugfreeswfl.org. » The Lee County School District developed the effective TALK15 program. Learn more at www. leeschools.net/talk15.

The Lee County Coalition for a Drug-Free Southwest Florida recommends that you begin to talk with your kids about making good choices when they are as young as 4 or 5. Conversations can include screen time vs. outside play, choosing soda vs. a drink of water — conversations that make sense and reflect the child’s development at the time. Not only does this begin the habit of a family discussion, but it makes the child, and parent, comfortable with the give-and-take nature of a discussion with a child. Parents need to become more at ease with children expressing

Deborah Comella is the executive director of the Lee County Coalition for a Drug-Free Southwest Florida.

differing viewpoints, and children need to learn how to constructively articulate their thoughts and questions to their parents.

Drug House Odyssey – A Lee County Prevention Event can be a great way

to start a conversation about underage drinking. This year’s Family Night is scheduled for 5 to 6:30 p.m. January 31 at the Lee County Civic Center, 11831 Bayshore Road, North Fort Myers. This is a walk-through play that illustrates the deadly effects of underage drinking and drinking and driving. This is a free event and reservations are not needed.

Safe Kids is a nonprofit coalition of agencies and organizations dedicated to eliminating preventable childhood injuries. Visit safekidsswfl.org.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » JANUARY 2018 » 41

« family album

WELCOME BACK » Everglades Wonder Gardens held a Family Fun Day

to celebrate its reopening after Hurricane Irma closed the iconic attraction for two months. Above, Dallas Hamilton and Mia Ricker encounter a blue and gold macaw. Photo special to SWFL Parent & Child

LUVY BEARS » The Metro-McGregor Kiwanis Club recently joined Kiwanis members around the world in devoting volunteer hours to handson service in an event called Kiwanis One Day. The Metro-McGregor Kiwanis Club volunteered with Luvybear Quilts 4 Tots, Inc. assembling and packaging bears and quilts. Photo special to SWFL Parent & Child

42 » JANUARY 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

Part Time & Full Time Options

BUILD-A-BIKE GIVEAWAY » Several nonprofits joined

in the United Way Build-A-Bike Giveaway in November at the Golden Gate Community Center. More than 100 Huffy bikes were assembled and given to children. The Collier County Sheriff’s Office provided helmet fittings and bike safety courses and sent each child home with a new helmet and bike lock.

Photo courtesy of Collier Child Care Resources Inc.

• Infant (0-18 months) $1,250/monthly • Toddler (18-36 months) $460 - $1,055/monthly • Preschool & Kindergarden (3-6 years) $450 - $990/monthly

Enrichment Classes Offered

• Spanish • Music Together • Piano • Suzuki Violin • Yoga Gardening & Fruit Picking • Redirecting Children’s Behavior Parent

Accredited by:

Quality Award:

Send Us Your Snapshots Send your images with a brief description and names of the people in them to editor@swflparentchild.com

DCF License C20LE0122

To Learn More Visit Us At www.msfortmyers.com or call 239.308.0042 2151 Crystal Drive, Fort Myers, Florida 33907 (In the Villas, near College Blvd. & US41)

HAVING FUN » Fort Myers mom Shylo Bell shared this cute pic of her daughter: Amberlie Jefferson, 4, playing with bubbles.

Photos courtesy of mom Shylo Bell

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » JANUARY 2018 » 43

« family album

BABY MANGROVE SITTERS » Child Care of Southwest Florida

partnered with the 4-H Trail Blazers club to teach preschoolers the importance of taking care of their environment by planting mangroves.

For nearly two months, the kids were tasked with babysitting the mangroves by watering and caring for the plants before the 4H members replant them on conservation land. Clockwise from top: Front: Caleb Sullivan and Johnieann Smith. Back: Amy Turner, Kaycee Tester, Katherine Sullivan, Gale Smith, Katie Tester, Ava Turner and Maegan Mikkelson. • Jaydon Lomestoire and Maegan Mikkelson • Ava Turner, Elijah Rodriguez, Joshua Mongerard and Kaycee Tester • Neveah Torres and Maegan Mikkelson.

Photos special to SWFL Parent & Child

44 » JANUARY 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

Dr. Michèle Laboda Dr. Van R. Speas

• FREE Initial Consultation • No Interest Financing • Ceramic & Metal Braces • Invisalign • Invisalign teen Let Us Straighten Your...

Early Prevention Starts at Age 7

Fort Myers Estero 239-561-2258 239-390-0289 14361 Metropolis Ave. 21740 S. Tamiami Trail Suite 116

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BACKPACKS FOR KIDS » Beyond These Walls Metropolitan Community Church gave 446 backpacks to the Florida Department of Children and Families to help children who have been removed from their homes by child protection investigators. The backpacks were donated by the public and collected at Five Below stores in North Port, Fort Myers and Estero. Photo special to SWFL Parent & Child

The only choice

Robin Dawn Dance Academy Est. 1975

Voted Cape Coral’s Best Dance Academy Come Join Our Family of Dancers

Tap • Jazz • Hip Hop • Lyrical • Ballet • Pointe Musical Theater • Acrobatics • Contortion • Circus Equipment

HAPPY HOLIDAYS » Nine-month-old Kayson Johnson poses for his holiday photos. Photo by Stephanie Bumm

Photo courtesy of Nocera Photographic

932 Country untry Club Blvd Blvd, Cape Coral 239 549.0827 • www.RobinDawnAcademy.com SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » JANUARY 2018 » 45

« family album

YOGA AT SCHOOL » Yogis of all ages enjoyed a blissful morning of deep stretching and yoga poses on a November Sunday at Seacrest Country Day School in Naples. Donation Yoga’s Lauren Fox brought the class to the campus for a three-part series. Photo courtesy of Seacrest Country Day School

IN HONOR » Home-school

students of the Classical Conversations program hosted an Excellence in Education event to commemorate Veterans Day and learn from local veterans. Clockwise from top left: Wayne Smith, a US Air Force POW in the Vietnam War, shares stories with Nicole Rearden, 11, and Kirstina Coakely, 11. Nicole said their conversation was her favorite part. “I have never met a prisoner of war before,” she says.

“He had so many amazing stories to share with us, like when the prisoners made up their own tapping code to communicate, or that they had to sleep on rice mats. I am so glad I met him.” • Ty Kornblue, 11, hands a card to JB Holmes, a US Air Force veteran who served in Vietnam. • Ty Kornblue, 11, and Luke Manely, 11, enjoy a lunchtime conversation with a National Guard Veteran. Photos special to SWFL Parent & Child

46 » JANUARY 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

travel »

OFF THE GRID ON A DUDE RANCH PHOTO COURTESY OF RED HORSE MOUNTAIN RANCH

The all-inclusive getaway was the ideal multigenerational vacation for this Southwest Florida family.

STORY BY PATRICIA CARLSON

W

e could hear them before we could see them. Their hooves thundered. Their whinnies filled the valley.

The ground started to shiver. A dirt cloud plumed in the distance. And then 80 horses came roaring right by us. Just as I had been as a little girl slipping into the saddle for the first time at horse camp, I was mesmerized. As I looked around, every single other person was too. Our dude ranch vacation was off to an impressive start.

Finding the right ranch My family and I — my parents (in their late 60s and early 70s), partner and two children (ages 6 and 4) — had been searching for the ideal multi-

generational family vacation for almost two years. We knew it needed to be in the United States, include exciting age-specific activities for everyone and keep costs reasonable.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » JANUARY 2018 » 47

« travel (continued) The ranch Red Horse Mountain Ranch sits on 560 acres in a mountainous region outside the well-known tourist destination Lake Coeur d’Alene in Idaho. It’s not easy to get to. A 1½-hours drive from the nearest airport in Spokane, Washington, we needed at least three flights to get from Fort Myers to Spokane (both ways) and then a rental car (the ranch does offer a shuttle service, too).

But we knew that going into it, and Red Horse still came out on top.

The ranch features eight individual cabins with varying private rooms and bathrooms that can accommodate families of all sizes, from couples to extended families like ours. Two-bedroom suites located on the second floor of the main lodge offer a less expensive option. A four-bedroom Hilltop Home situated a short, uphill walk from the main lodge and cabins offers the most room and amenities at the ranch. It’s a true vacation home and the only lodging available with a full kitchen, satellite television, internet and phone.

The other cabins are outfitted with a mini-fridge in each room, but the only television and Wi-Fi hotspot on the premises is in the main lodge.

We arrived on a Sunday for our six-day vacation (everyone usually arrives and departs on the same day).

The ranch manager was waiting for us to drive down the long, winding, dirt road and immediately escorted us to our cabin where he helped us get settled.

The log cabins are rustic and simple, yet completely comfortable. My parents’ room on the second floor had an in-window air conditioner unit, but the main floor bedrooms did not. If you don’t like sleeping with your windows open, you’ll want to request a room with an A/C unit.

Once we unpacked, we headed to the main lodge for orientation. We toured the dining area where we’d enjoy all our meals, the bar and snack area, the library, the sundries store, and then we stepped onto the back wraparound deck to take in the majestic view of the valley the ranch sits in. It was the

48 » JANUARY 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

Above, from Tricia’s vacation photos, daughter CC Carlson feeds carrots to a friendly steed at Red Horse Mountain Ranch in Idaho. At far right, CC and the kids prepare for a ride. The remaining photos of the mountainous scenery are from Red Horse Mountain Ranch.

perfect welcoming to fully embrace this adventure we were about to take.

The last order of business for the first day was to figure out the old-fashioned (i.e. handwritten) activity board.

The ranch has huge printed sheets of every activity offered during morning and afternoon sessions for the entire week posted outside the main lodge.

You can sign up for activities each day or you can plan out your week and sign up for everything in advance. With limited slots available for certain outings like archery, zip lining and target shooting, and for advanced riding tests and lessons, it is a good idea to sign up in advance as we did. Because my 4-year-old still naps, each grown up in our group took one day to rest with him. My dad volunteered for two days.

At last, it was time to meet the horses. This is one of the best-loved traditions at Red Horse Mountain Ranch, and it is enthralling. Just before dinner, all guests are invited to line the dirt road leading from the weekend pasture to the barn and paddocks. Then the horses

are released and stampede past. It’s a glorious, brisk moment to feel them roaring past and seeing their manes and tails swishing wildly in the wind.

The horses The single biggest factor in choosing Red Horse was that everyone in our party would get their own horse for a week (horseback riding is only available to those riders under 240 pounds or athletically built). Even my 4-year-old son who had never done more than a pony ride at the local fair. This was practically unheard of in my research of other dude ranches. Most had provisions that children under 7 would be limited to rides inside a ring; this would have also limited my 6-year-old’s chances to experience a trail ride.

Red Horse does horses differently.

Each rider age 3 and older gets their own horse and saddle for the duration of their stay, and rides include trail, ring, and group or individual lessons.

The ranch typically has between 80 and 100 horses per season, many of which

are permanent fixtures while some other horses are leased. Young riders with little to no prior horse experience get a lead-line for the week as well. This is a wrangler or other staffer who walks side-by-side with your child and their horse to ensure all stay safe.

Red Horse requires guests to fill out an activity information form when making a reservation. This form includes standard information, like food preferences and allergies, preferred lodging accommodations and lots of questions about your riding history, experience around horses, comfort with animal temperament and what you’re most looking forward to on horseback.

The barn manager and flock manager use this information to match you with your ideal horse. All riding and gear is Western.

If our family’s experience is any indication, this system works. My children bonded with their horses, Rex and Dallas, immediately. These gentle creatures knew they had rookie riders onboard and never appeared agitated by the mixed signals my novices would deliver through nervous

pulls on their reins. My father and husband wanted patient walkers who knew how to follow a lead horse; they both rode older white giants who were beloved by other horses in the pasture. My mother and I, both experienced riders in our younger years but who hadn’t mounted a horse in quite some time, asked for adventurous horses who would be willing to take charge. Our horses were perfect. My horse, Willie, was a natural-born leader who craved action and always wanted to be on the move. By the end of the week, we’d progressed from beginning rides and lessons to advanced rides where we cantered through tree-lined trails in the mountains. I made sure to always reward him with carrots and a good brushing afterward.

All-inclusive Red Horse Mountain Ranch treats “all-inclusive” the way it was intended.

Nearly everything at the ranch — unlimited food and snacks, drinks (alcohol included), guided adventures, nighttime festivities like campfires, live bands and

karaoke, kids’ club fun and even laundry — is included. The only extras you’ll pay for are off-ranch fly fishing, massages and premium wines.

The food, prepared on site each day by a chef, while not gourmet, is terrific. This is huge, because you will be hungry from all the action. Almost every meal — save for breakfast and the iconic Thursday night multi-course wine-paired dinner — is served buffet style. A full salad bar, two to three entree choices and at least two dessert choices are always presented.

Robust meat eaters like my partner were satisfied with down home dishes like meatloaf and oven-fried chicken (my favorite!) while clean eaters like my mother enjoyed avocado veggie sandwiches and quinoa salads. My children tried a little bit of everything at each meal. And while not everything was a hit, they could turn to cereal, yogurt and fruit anytime they wanted at a self-serve corner in the dining room.

All guests eat at family-style tables, so friendships form fast. Two tween girls “adopted” my son for every meal and even playtime afterward so I could actually savor my meal and engage in small talk. My daughter ate and played with her own group of friends. We met families from Massachusetts, Texas and North Carolina; some were repeat customers, others were novices like us. We all left friends and are still in touch on social media and the occasional text.

As a busy working mother of two, this vacation was everything I needed and more. I chose to be completely “off the grid” the duration of the trip and only used my cell phone as an alarm.

The clarity and calm this brought me was invaluable. I loved watching the elation my children felt on horseback and experiencing new challenges with them. I was completely engaged with them when I was with them. I relished my early morning mountain bike rides with my mom, who would inevitably lose her balance, blurt “oh, sh**!”, then fall off and laugh. Best of all, I got to be me again. Not mom. Not daughter. Not co-worker. Not wife. I was just Tricia, a girl on her horse, racing through trails with a huge smile on my face.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » JANUARY 2018 » 49

« around town

Circus is coming The Garden Bros. Circus rolls into town for shows January 26 and 27 at Germain Arena in Estero. This year’s extravaganza features three rings, motorcycle daredevils, the Crazy Cossack Horse Riders, Chinese acrobats, tumblers, trapeze artists, jugglers from “America’s Got Talent” and more. Show times are 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Friday, January 26, and 1:30, 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, January 27. Tickets are $11-$39.

Parking is $10. Free kids’ tickets for ages 3-13 can be found at various businesses around town. Children younger than 3 are admitted free without a ticket unless they require a seat.

Get details at gardenbroscircus.com or germainarena.com.

Festival to raise money for animal shelter in Cape Coral Live music, carnival-style games, food trucks and honoring veterans and animals is what Heroes and Hounds is all about. The free event Saturday, January 6, is a dog-friendly family festival to raise money for the building of the Cape Coral Animal Shelter and help the Southeastern Guide Dogs organization and Holiday 4 Heroes care package programs. The fun takes place 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Sun Splash fairgrounds, 400 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral.

Get details at capecoralanimalshelter.com.

Christian School Expo this month The Classical Christian Academy is organizing the Christian School Expo on Saturday, January 13.

The free event brings representatives from many of the region’s leading Christian schools together under one roof, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at New Hope Presbyterian Church, 10051 Plantation Road, Fort Myers. For details, visit discovercca.org.

Ghost walk goes back in time Experience the Koreshan State Park historical site as it was more than a hundred years ago at the annual Ghost Walk Performance on January 26 and 27 and February 2 and 3.

The walking play takes guests down a candlelit pathway on a nighttime stroll, through historic buildings and past actors in periodaccurate costumes.

You can taste a treat made from a Koreshan recipe, and the Fairbanks Morse diesel engine will light up the night. Hour-long walking plays begin every 15 minutes starting at 6:45 p.m. each night until the last one at 8 p.m.

Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at friendsofkoreshan. org or by calling the ranger station at 239-992-0311.

New way to experience Harry Potter’s world

The Southwest Florida Symphony plays every note from “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” while the magic of the film is relived in high-definition on a 40-foot screen in two special performances January 20 at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall in south Fort Myers. The concerts begin at 1:30 and 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are $56.50-$90 and sold at swflso.org, 239-418-1500 or at the box office; availability was limited as of mid-December.

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calendar »

DANCE

Celebrating Since 1951

Friday, Jan. 5 Art Walk » 6-10 p.m. Downtown Fort Myers. Free. Art galleries, exhibitions and performances.

All Ages

Classical Ballet Pointe Tap Jazz Hip Hop Modern Children’s Work Acrobatics

Saturday, Jan. 6 Classical Conversations Informational Meeting » 9:3011:30 a.m. Classical Conversations is a home education support group for home-school families with students ages 4-18.

Additional information meetings are 9:30-11:30 a.m. January 17, 7-9 p.m. January 23 and 9:30-11:30 a.m. January 27.

Make reservations and receive location by emailing abussard@ classicalconversations.com. For 10 a.m. January 5 at Mackle Park on Marco Island, 2 p.m. January 23 and 10 a.m. at Eagle Lake Park on January 26, email cbock@classicalconversations.com.

(239)334-3274 www.dancebochette.com DANCE

RESALE & CONSIGNMENT

Heroes and Hounds » 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun Splash Fairgrounds, 400 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral. Live music, carnival-style games, food trucks and honoring veterans and animals. Free admission. capecoralanimalshelter.com Mommy and Me Yoga » 9-10 a.m. Healthy Life Center at Coconut Point, 23190 Fashion Drive, Suite 105, Estero. Yoga instructor Nicole Traum, of Lee Health Wellness Center, will lead a free community mommy-and-me yoga session for ages 3 and younger. Bring a mat. Reservations required. 239-495-4475.

NP-0000921286

NEWBORN CARE

Roc Day » 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sidney and Berne Davis Art Center, 2301 First St., Fort Myers. Free. Weavers of Char-Lee share their knowledge and expertise. For all ages.

Tinkergarten Trial Classes for Kids » 10 a.m. Three Oaks Community Park, 18251 Three Oaks Parkway, San Carlos Park.

Free. Kids learn through nature-based play. tinkergarten.com or facebook.com/events/142315196488116.

“What Do You Do With a Chance?” Storytime » 11 a.m.

Three Barnes & Noble locations: 13751 Tamiami Trail, south Fort Myers; Waterside Shops, 5377 Tamiami Trail, Naples, and Coconut Point, 23130 Fashion Drive, Estero. “What Do You Do With a Chance?” inspires kids of all ages to find the courage to go for the opportunities that come their way.

PRESCHOOL

Sunday, Jan. 7 Free Beach Walk » 9:30-10:30 a.m. Gulfside City Park, 2001 Algiers Lane, Sanibel. Free, though parking fees apply. Explore the J.N. “Ding” Darling Refuge’s Perry Tract and learn about this vital beach ecosystem. Bring a shell bag.

Monday, Jan. 8 ASD Improv & Acting Program » 4:30 p.m. every Monday in January. Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. $10 per class. An improv and acting class for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Designed for ages 8-17.

Registration required. artinlee.org

Tuesday, Jan. 9 Behavioral Health Event » 7:30-10 a.m. Florida SouthWestern State College, 8099 College Parkway, south Fort Myers. Room U-102. Free. A Healthy Lee community dialog on behavioral health. It begins with a continental breakfast at 7:30 a.m., general session at 8 a.m. and breakout sessions at 9 a.m. Topics SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » JANUARY 2018 » 51

« calendar include children’s behavioral health, adult behavioral health, substance abuse and anxiety in the workplace.

RSVP to communityconversations@healthylee.com.

Community School of Naples Open House » 8:15 a.m. Community School of Naples, 13275 Livingston Road, Naples. Open house for prospective Middle and Upper School students. Another open house will be held January 11 for prospective Lower School students. communityschoolnaples.org “Finding Neverland” » January 9-14. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers.

The story behind Peter Pan. $45.46-$93.16. Shows are 7:30 p.m. January 9-10, 2 and 7:30 p.m. January 11, 8 p.m. January 12, 2 and 8 p.m. January 13 and 1 p.m.

January 14. bbmannpah.com Hope Through High School » 6-8 p.m. Food & Thought, 2132 Tamiami Trail N, Naples. Classical Conversations is a home education support group for home-school families with students ages 4-18. Its mission: “To Know God and Make Him Known.” This support meeting discusses the middle and high school years. To RSVP, email cbock@classicalconversations.com.

Naples Hawaiian Hula Series » 6 p.m. House of Gaia, 1660 Trade Center Way, Naples. Tuesdays starting January 9. Learn the basic steps and choreographies of different Polynesian dances, which may include Hawaiian Hula.

The new Keiki (ages 5 and older) class meets 6-6:45 p.m. Tuesdays. Children must be accompanied by an adult. This class is also great for moms to take with their children. Cost is $50 per month; family discounts available. RSVP to 239-768-5575.

Wednesday, Jan. 10 Free Wednesday Film Series “Wings of Life” » 1-2:30 p.m. J. N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel. (81 minutes) Narrated by Meryl Streep, this intimate look at butterflies, hummingbirds, bees, bats and flowers is a celebration of life, as a third of the world’s food supply depends on these creatures.

Friday, Jan. 12 Mystery Walk » 6-8 p.m. Downtown Fort Myers. A mystery scavenger hunt every second Friday of the month takes participants through an exploration of the historic River District.

Every month brings you to different places with different clues so it never repeats itself. Sign up in front of Iberia Bank at First and Hendry streets. Free to play. fortmyersriverdistrictalliance. com/events/mystery-walk

Saturday, Jan. 13 Bonita Springs National Art Festival » 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

January 13-14 and February 10-11. Riverside Park, 27300 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs. See the works of nationally and internationally renowned arts.

Cape Coral Arts & Music Festival »January 13-14. Cape Coral Parkway in south Cape Coral between Del Prado Boulevard and Southeast 10th Place. Free admission. Hours are 10 a.m.-9 p.m. January 13 and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. January 14.

Juried art show, live performances and vendors. 239-699-7942.

Capecoralfestival.com Christian School Expo » 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. New Hope Presbyterian Church, 10051 Plantation Road, Fort Myers.

Classical Christian Academy hosts for families to meet staff from Christian schools in the area. discovercca.org.

Fashion Show at Seacrest Country Day School » 5:30-8 p.m. Seacrest Country Day School, 7100 Davis Blvd., Naples.

Local kids, tweens and teens strut their stuff on the catwalk at this new student-led fundraiser. The event is hosted by Seacrest Upper School Tech/Art students and sisters Logan and Lacie Nikolich and advised by Art Department Chair Mr. Grandi.

Proceeds benefit technology and art departments. Upper School artists will have works of art for sale. Light food and drinks will be available. Gift basket raffle. Tickets are $20-$40. seacrest. org/life-at-seacrest/co-curricularopportunities/fashion-show

Thursday, Jan. 11

Paddington Storytime » 11 a.m. Three Barnes & Noble locations: 13751 Tamiami Trail, south Fort Myers; Waterside Shops, 5377 Tamiami Trail, Naples, and Coconut Point, 23130 Fashion Drive, Estero. Over 50 years ago, a small bear set out on the adventure of a lifetime. Since then, Paddington has charmed readers around the world with his earnest good intentions and humorous misadventures.

Community School of Naples Open House » 8:15 a.m. Community School of Naples, 13275 Livingston Road, Naples. Open house for prospective Lower School students. communityschoolnaples.org

Science Saturday » 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero. In WINK Playland. Join Mr. Glen and his Science & Engineering team and the Sylvan Learning Center for interactive science projects. miromaroutlets.com

Evelyn’s Koreshan Cooking » 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Koreshan State Park, 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero. Free with park admission. Meet at the Cast Iron Cafe to enjoy Koreshan style recipes, like sausage and potato soup, prepared using historic Dutch ovens and an 1800s wood-burning oven once used in the Koreshan Settlement Bakery.

SoCo Second Saturday Art Crawl » 6-10 p.m. Royal Palm Square, 1400 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. The SoCo Arts and Culture District has become a hub for artists, art advocates, musicians, actors and more. The SoCo Second Saturday brings together local talent and patrons for a night of fun, family and artful entertainment. Collect the Golden Tickets for a chance to win a prize every month.

Fourth Trimester Club: Postpartum Nutrition » Noon-1 p.m. Healthy Life Center at Coconut Point, 23190 Fashion Drive, Suite 105, Estero. A registered dietitian discusses postpartum nutrition and weight loss with complimentary body composition screenings. The Fourth Trimester Club is a biweekly group for moms to gently adjust to life with a newborn. Moms are empowered with education from experts in their field and able to connect to others in the same stage of life. 239-495-4475.

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Youth Theatre Auditions: “Spamalot” and “Freckleface Strawberry” » 9 a.m.-noon January 13-14. Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Casting call for “Freckleface Strawberry” & “Spamalot.” Registration required Callbacks will be 6-9 p.m. January 15. Rehearsals will be 9 a.m.3 p.m. most Saturdays and 6-9 p.m. Mondays. artinlee.org

calendar »

RESALE & CONSIGNMENT

Sunday, Jan. 14 Naples Concert Band Concert in the Park » 2-4 p.m.

Cambier Park, Park Street, Naples. The first concert of the New Year features professional entertainer Cindy Miller singing Natalie Cole songs and world renowned trombonist Harry Watters performing a variety of solos, including “Embraceable You” and “Cherokee.” Free admission; donations received at each concert help defray expenses and help with The Band’s Scholarship Fund. 239-263-9521. naplesconcertband.org.

Monday, Jan. 15 Community Camp Day » 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sanibel Sea School.

For campers ages 6-13 and Counselors In Training ages 1317. Each day has a theme, games and activities. Reservations required. communitycamp@sanibelseaschool.org Din & Tonics » 8 p.m. Moorings Presbyterian Church, 791 Harbour Drive, Naples. The Din & Tonics are Harvard University’s signature all-male a cappella group. This family-friendly show is filled with original and humorous renditions of classic jazz standards. General admission is $25, premium reserved seats $100, patron tickets $500. our.show/harvarddins or dins.com There is Something About Snakes » Noon. Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary & Audubon Blair Center, 375 Sanctuary Road W., Naples. Murray Barnhart, Corkscrew volunteer naturalist and live snake ambassador, talks to visitors about these intriguing creatures. Meet and greet one of the ambassador snakes and learn about their importance in the environment, including their role in the Sanctuary’s habitats. For adventurous visitors, you may see these snakes up close even get a chance to safely touch them while they are handled by the trained docents. Free with regular admission of $14 per adult, $6 for college students, $4 for ages 6-18. Free for children younger than 6 and for Friends of Corkscrew Members.

Tuesday, Jan. 16 Breastfeeding Class » 6:30-8:30 p.m. The Family Birth Center of Naples, 2930 Immokalee Road, Suite 2, Naples. Learn how to successfully breastfeed your newborn baby, use breast pumps and transition to returning to work while breastfeeding. 239594-0400. For fee info and to register, visit naplesbirthcenter. com or email FBCNaples@gmail.com.

Nature Hike » 10 a.m. Koreshan State Historic Site, 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero. Free with park entry, $5 per vehicle of 2-8 people, $4 for a single-occupant vehicle, $2 for pedestrians and bicyclists. Join a park naturalist for a walk on the nature trails of Koreshan State Park. Learn park history, history of the Estero River and find out about plants and critters you meet along the way. Bring water, hat and camera for pictures.

Reservations requested. 239-992-0311. friendsofkoreshan.org/ nature-hike

Wednesday, Jan. 17 Eastern Synchro Sectional » 9 a.m. Germain Arena, 11000 Everblades Parkway, Estero. $5-$25. The best synchronized skating teams in the Eastern Region compete January 17-21 to try to earn spots in the 2018 U.S. Synchronized Skating Championships.

Nutrition Class » 7-8:30 p.m. The Family Birth Center of

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« calendar Naples, 2930 Immokalee Road, Suite 2, Naples. Nutrition for pregnancy, lactation, postpartum and family. 239-5940400. Register by emailing FBCNaples@gmail.com.

Royal Palm Academy Admissions Open House » 9-11 a.m. Royal Palm Academy, 16100 Livingston Road, Naples.

Meet the head of school, learn about the programs and future plans and events, and hear testimonials from current parents. Prospective families tour the Royal Palm Academy campus and visit classrooms. Refreshments will be served.

239-594-9888.

Story Time in the Garden » 10 a.m. Lakes Regional Park, south Fort Myers. Stories, nature walks and activities for little ones. Monthly on the third Wednesday. January 17 topic: worms. On February 21: ladybugs. lakespark.org

Thursday, Jan. 18 Fourth Trimester Club: Postpartum Nutrition » 10-11 a.m. Family Birth Place, Cape Coral Hospital, 636 Del Prado Blvd. S., Cape Coral. New location. A biweekly group for moms to gently adjust to life with a newborn together.

Moms are empowered with education from experts in their field and able to connect to others in the same stage of life.

Group meets in the second floor waiting room at the Family Birth Place. A registered dietitian will discuss postpartum nutrition and weight loss goals with complimentary body composition screenings available. 239-424-3210.

Naples Boat Show » 10 a.m.-5 p.m. January 18-21.

Naples Municipal Airport, 560 Terminal Drive, Naples. Oneday general admission is $10 for adults, free for children younger than 12. See displays by marinas, boat dealers and other marine-related businesses. The MIACC Kids Club sponsored by Home Depot will be there Saturday and Sunday. naplesboatshow.com

Friday, Jan. 19 Adoption Film » 10 a.m. Naples Daily News, 1100 Immokalee Road, Naples. Lecture on adoption by Florey Herman. Organized by Patti Boochever.

Family Movie Night and Food Truck Rally » 5:30-8:30 p.m. Cypress Lake United Methodist Church, 8570 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers. Enjoy dinner and a free familyfriendly feature outdoors on the lawn.

Music Walk » 6-10 p.m. Downtown Fort Myers. On the third Friday of the month, local and regional musicians line the streets. From jazz and blues to rock ’n’ roll, many genres can be heard and vary each month. Free.

Saturday, Jan. 20 Awesome Books & Classical Conversations » 6-8 p.m. Classical Conversations is a home education support group for home-school families with students ages 4-18.

Its mission: “To Know God and Make Him Known.” This event includes discussion about home education and a book discussion. To RSVP and get location, email cbock@ classicalconversations.com.

Baby Basics 5K Fun Run/Walking Challenge » 8:30 a.m. North Collier Regional Park, 15000 Livingston Road, Naples. Entry fee is $25 for one adult and a child, $10

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for additional children. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. Kickoff is 9:30 a.m. Brunch follows immediately. Benefits Baby Basics of Collier County, a volunteer organization that provides free diapers to low-income, working families in Collier County and Bonita Springs. Register at runsignup.com/Race/FL/Naples/ BabyBasics5KFunRunandWalkingChallenge. babybasicscollier.org Face Off Sculpting Session with Jeff Ocasio » 10 a.m.

Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. For ages 12 and older. Join Jeff Ocasio in a hands-on workshop to learn the technique of sculpting with masking tape. You’ll learn all the basics of shaping and constructing with this unusual medium while sculpting a face mask that can be hung on the wall. All materials will be supplied. artinlee.org Family Yoga with Kathryn » 10 a.m. Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero. Free 45-minute beginners’ yoga class for families with toddlers to tweens. Bring your own mat. miromaroutlets.com Harry Chapin Hunger Walk » 8:30-11 a.m. Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero. Teams raise money and walk a 2-mile circuit around the mall. All proceeds support the mission of The Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida. miromaroutlets.com “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” in Concert » 1:30 and 7:30 p.m. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. $56.60-$90. The Southwest Florida Symphony plays every note from “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” while the film rolls in high-definition on a 40-foot screen.

239-418-1500. swflso.org Junior Ranger Program » 10-11 a.m. Koreshan State Park, 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero. Free with park admission. Every third Saturday of the month. Meet in the picnic area. Learn about the creatures and critters that live in this state park and the evidence they leave behind. Ideal for ages 6-12. Parental presence required. Reservations requested. 239-992-0311.

LatinFest Southwest Florida » 5-10 p.m. Six Bends HarleyDavidson, 9501 Thunder Road, south Fort Myers. Free.

Food, vendors, kids’ area and entertainment. 239-418-1441. hispanicchamberflorida.org TD Bank Naples Bike Brunch » 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Cambier Park, 755 Eighth Ave. S., Naples. A ride/run/walk event for the whole family. Festivities begin and end in the park. The event features bike rides for all levels: 100, 62, 30, 20 miles and a special 5-miler for families with kids and a 3K Fun Run/Walk. There will be craft beers, a band, lunch from Moe’s, vendor expo with games, and silent auction. Proceeds help support the work of Naples Pathways Coalition to create safe, bikeable, walkable communities. Register at naplespathways.org. 239-777-7781.

Thomas Alva Edison Kiwanis Science and Engineering Fair and the 31st Thomas A. Edison Festival of Light Regional Inventors Fair » 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Alico Arena at Florida Gulf Coast University, 12181 FGCU Lake Parkway E., Fort Myers.

Over 800 public, private and home-schooled middle school and high school students from Lee and Charlotte counties compete for scholarships from local universities, colleges and other supporters. The event is open to the public 1:30-4 p.m. for the Inventors Fair and 3-5 p.m. for the Science Fair. edisonfairs. org/2017/10/30/2018-taersif “You!” Storytime » 11 a.m. Three Barnes & Noble locations: 13751 Tamiami Trail, south Fort Myers; Waterside Shops, 5377 Tamiami Trail, Naples, and Coconut Point, 23130 Fashion Drive, Estero. A life full of adventure first requires big dreams, and big

calendar » dreams need big encouragement. From world-renowned author and artist Sandra Magsamen comes “You!” to offer inspiration and hope to readers of all ages. Activities to follow.

Sunday, Jan. 21 Bluegrass Music » 2-5 p.m. Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. A fusion of American country music: Irish, Scottish and English ballads and traditional dance music with a heaping helping of jazz influence for a toe-tapping good time. Presented in partnership with the Acoustic Music Society of Southwest Florida. $15. artinlee.org

Garden Bros. Circus » January 26-27. Germain Arena, 11000 Everblades Parkway, Estero. Shows are 4:30 and 7:30 p.m.

January 26 and 1:30, 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. January 27. Tickets are $11-$39. Parking is $10. Free kids’ tickets for ages 3-13 can be found at various businesses. Children younger than 3 are admitted free without a ticket unless they require a seat. gardenbroscircus.com or germainarena.com Ghost Walk » January 26-27 and February 2-3. Koreshan State Park, 3800 Corkscrew Rd, Estero. $25. Actors in period costumes, Koreshan food and tours every 15 minutes starting at 6:45 p.m. each night. Last tour at 8 a.m. 239-992-0311. friendsofkoreshan.org

Tuesday, Jan. 23

Saturday, Jan. 27

Drug and Alcohol Facts Week » 4-5 p.m. Lehigh Acres Boys and Girls Club, 1262 Wings Way, Lehigh Acres. Free. National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week links students with scientists and other experts to counteract the myths about drugs and alcohol that teens get from the internet, social media, TV, movies, music or from friends. The dangers of marijuana for teens will be discussed. There will be a presentation and handouts for teens and parents.

2018 Healthy Living Expo » 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Greater Naples YMCA, 5450 YMCA Road, Naples. Free. Complimentary health screenings of vision, hearing, balance, BMI, blood pressure, skin cancer, spinal health and more. Plus, vendors, giveaways and raffle prizes. 732-300-4758

Wednesday, Jan. 24

Bluegrass Jamboree » Noon-5 p.m. Cape Coral Historical Museum, 544 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral. Blue grass and barbecue. Features three bands: Sawgrass Drifters, Bluegrass Central and Florida Bluegrass Express. General admission is $15 in advance, $20 at the gate. Lawn seating. 239-772-7037. capecoralhistoricalmuseum.org/bluegrass-jamboree

Free Wednesday Film Series “Tapped” » 10-11:30 a.m. J. N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel. (76 min) Is access to clean water a basic human right or a commodity that should be bought and sold? From plastic production to the ocean in which so many bottles end up, this documentary trails the path of the bottled water industry and the communities that were the unwitting chips on the table.

ClamJam of SWFL Seafood & Music Festival 2018 » 10 a.m.-7 p.m. January 27 and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. January 28.

German American Social Club, 2101 Pine Island Road, Cape Coral. $10 at the gate, $8 online, free for ages 12 and younger.

Free parking. Arts and crafts vendors, seafood and other foods, live music, games, rides and contests. Kids games and rides. clamjamswfl.com

Thursday, Jan. 25 Words Wanted: Poetry Open Mic Night » 6-9 p.m. Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Are you a poet looking for a stage? Or a fan of prose? Southwest Florida poets are invited to share their work at an open mic evening designed to bring together different generations, styles and approaches to poetry. The atmosphere will be casual fun for all ages. $5 suggested donation.

Friday, Jan. 26 A Celebration of Harry Potter » January 26-28. Universal Orlando Resort, 6000 Universal Blvd., Orlando. A three-day fan event where guests delve into the world of Harry Potter.

Celebrities attending include Stanislav Yanevski, who plays Viktor Krum, and James and Oliver Phelps, who play Fred and George Weasley. There will be Q&A sessions with stars, interactive activities, and special panels and demonstrations. Guests can also visit the two worlds of Harry Potter, plus ride the Hogwarts Express between the two lands with a park-to-park ticket.

Cottontails hosts Silhouette Artist » 3 p.m. Cottontails, 7935 Airport Pulling Road N., Naples. Erik Johnson is a highly skilled, third-generation silhouette artist who learned the craft from his father. Within minutes, Erik hand cuts each silhouette by just looking at the subject’s profile. When he’s done you’ll have an amazing keepsake silhouette of you, your child, significant other, etc. Silhouettes are $30 each, a duplicate of the same person is $15. Framing is available.

Calusa Bug Chase 5K Run » 6:30-9:30 a.m. Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium, 3450 Ortiz Ave., Fort Myers. The course follows the nature center’s trails and an asphalt bike path on Ortiz Avenue. Adult registration is $20 until January 17, $25 January 18-26 and $35 on race day. Registration for ages 17 and younger is $10, $15 and $25. There will also be a no charge BUG Crawl for ages 5 and younger. Benefits the Fort Myers-Metro Kiwanis Club’s BUG (Bring Up Grades) Program and other local club-sponsored youth service projects.

Participants can register at ftmyerstrackclub.com. Packet pickup begins at 6:30 a.m. Race begins at 7:30 a.m.

Sunday, Jan. 28 2nd annual SWFL Veg Fest » 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Riverside Park, 26740 Pine Ave. Bonita Springs. Showcases the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle for health, compassion for animals and protecting the planet. See how easy it is to find healthy plant-based foods in Southwest Florida. Find local sources of eco-friendly and cruelty-free products. Learn about the science behind the benefits of a plant-based diet. Featuring expert speakers, cooking demos, vendors, and animal rescues, with entertainment and activities for the whole family. Hula Hoop contest, tug of war, cooking demonstrations, cupcake eating contest (2 p.m.) and Kid Zone. swflvegfest.org Gumbo Fest » 11 a.m.-6 p.m. The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers. Free admission. Live entertainment, zydeco music, free admission for children to the nature park. 239-995-2141. shellfactory.com

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« calendar Monday, Jan. 29 Home Education Open House » 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. East Naples. Classical Conversations is a home education support group for home-school families with students ages 4-18. Its mission: “To Know God and Make Him Known.”

To RSVP and get location, email cbock@classicalconversations.com.

Wednesday, Jan. 31 Drug House Odyssey Family Night » 5-7 p.m. Lee Civic Center, 11831 Bayshore Road, North Fort Myers. Real-life depiction about the dangers of underage drinking and drinking. The walk-through play is a great opportunity to talk with your kids about making good choices. Sponsored by the Lee County Coalition for a Drug-Free Southwest Florida. Not recommended for children younger than 8, because of the graphic nature of the play.

The Elephant: Stories You’ll Never Forget » 7-9 p.m. Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. $15 for members, $20 for nonmembers.

Ten storytellers perform tales of laughter, tears, fun and excitement: personal stories, tall tales, folk tales, fractured tales and more. The event is not geared toward children but it is family-friendly. 239-939-2787. artinlee.org/elephant

Saturday, Feb. 3 Live! Improve Café Youth Improv » 5 p.m. Center for Performing Arts Bonita Springs, 10150 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs. $6 for youth, $10 for adults. The first Saturday of every month features improv performers trained through Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs youth theater and improv classes. 239-495-8989. artcenterbonita.org

Thursday, Feb. 8 Fourth Trimester Club: Breastfeeding Support » Noon-1 p.m. Healthy Life Center at Coconut Point, 23190 Fashion Drive, Suite 105, Estero. Bring your questions for the lactation consultant. The club is a biweekly group for moms to gently adjust to life with a newborn together. 239-495-4475.

“Gidion’s Knot” by Johnna Adams » 8-10 p.m. Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Opening night. Amidst the fallout from her fifth-grade son’s suspension from school, a mother demands answers.

What begins as a highly charged parent-teacher conference with Gidion’s reticent teacher soon develops into a revelatory confrontation. A thoughtprovoking exploration that keeps us guessing about where to lay blame when children go astray. Performances February 8-18. 239-939-2787.

Friday, Feb. 9 “Footloose” by CFABS Teen Players » February 9-11. Centers for the Arts, 10150 Bonita Beach Road S.E., Bonita Springs. $15 general admission, $20 reserved seating. Experience the heart-warming story of how a teenage “city-slicker” clashes with the restrictions he faces when he moves into a puritanical small town and how he helps the leaders of the community come to see the virtues and benefits of dancing and celebrating the joys of life. Show times: 7 p.m. February 9, 2 and 7 p.m. February 10 and 2 p.m.

February 11.

The Festival of the Spheres » 7 p.m. February 9-10. Koreshan State Park, 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero. $10 for students, $20 for general admission.

A moon-lit and music-filled procession among Calusa spirit-animals on the historic grounds of the Koreshan Unity Community, where Cyrus Teed and his follows lived, worked, worshipped, created and performed music, art, and theater. Ghostbird Theatre returns to the Koreshan with a night of playfulness and wonder inspired by the people of the Unity and the celebrations of their cosmic home. This play requires that its audience walk along the groomed dirt paths of the site. Wear comfortable shoes.

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ArtFest

Release your creativity Nurture your family’s creative side by visiting ArtFest Fort Myers on February 3 and 4.

This fine art festival not only features more than 200 artists (from a pool of about 900), it also provides a blend of family activities, performances and lots of food options.

In the large Publix Art Yard area, you’ll find imaginative fun for the whole family. The Alliance for the Arts will be creating a public art project of oversized roly-poly characters and critters. Publix teaches children how to create fun and healthy snacks, which they can carry along in their own personally decorated shopping bag. The Young Art Collectors Gallery is a kids-only shopping zone where every piece of festival artist’s artwork is priced at $5.

There will also be numerous arts and crafts opportunities.

The Publix Youth Stage hosts a variety of free performances, including the Heat Latin Jazz, Irish Dance Academy, Family Music Time, Polynesian Dancers and the Harmony Choir from Gulfshore Opera.

Art experiences go “to ground level” in the Italian street chalk area where 40 high school teams from 18 schools, under the supervision of five professional chalk artists, create oversized art pieces. The professionals will also set an example by creating their own works.

Be sure to check out the Art Under 20 exhibit.

It’s the largest high school art competition in Southwest Florida, providing talented students with an opportunity to exhibit their work to 90,000 festival attendees and vie for $8,000 in cash awards.

ArtFest kicks off with a limited preview 6-9 p.m.

Friday, February 2. Then the show is 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, February 3 and 4, along the river in downtown Fort Myers.

Get details at artfestfortmyers.com or on the ArtFest Facebook or LinkedIn pages. #artfestfm

Find more events on swflparentchild.com

voices »

Angelica Sereda is mom to three little girls and a blogger at notwithoutmycoffee.net.

She lives in Cape Coral with her family.

GUEST COLUMN

Finding bliss in

MINDFUL PARENTING The practice of being in the moment helps this mom stress less and enjoy the everyday tasks of life.

A

s we settle into the new year, I find myself, like many people, looking ahead and also looking back to the year we’ve left behind. Whether we achieved a lot of success or hit some challenging times (or both), we all want to form better habits, achieve more and generally feel like we’re improving with each passing year.

Naturally, this is the time for reflections. I myself am feeling excited and looking forward optimistically with a new found motivation that usually comes with this special time of year. After being honest with myself and accepting the many shortcomings, I’m also reminded of some amazing little life lessons that I have learned along the way, maybe even perhaps because of the challenges. In the past few weeks, I have been making an honest effort to be more mindful, especially with my kids. All too often I’m with them, but my mind is focused on other things. Usually, during our mother-daughter quality time, I’m preoccupied with the never-ending to-do list (that’s a staple in my mind), other times I’m stuck on

what we should be eating, or feeling like I should really be cleaning everything in sight.

The list goes on. And it’s constant.

While it’s important to plan and multitask, it shouldn’t take away from the present moment, at least not all the time. Life with small children is so challenging, but then I realize how fleeting this time is, and it puts the important things into perspective. I’m reminded of a meme that I see all the time of a crowd of people gathering to see the Pope in New York a few years ago (the crowds were insane; I was there). Everyone in the crowd is holding up their smartphones trying to capture the best video or best picture, but this little old lady stands out because she is watching the Pope with her own eyes and clearly enjoying the moment. I want to live and experience more moments the authentic and mindful way — being fully present just like the old lady. Maybe age really does bring great wisdom.

Do you know what happens when you commit to being mindful in one area of your life? Other areas of your life benefit, too.

Since putting my mindful parenting into practice, I feel less stressed, less worried and like I’m letting myself enjoy my daughters so much more. Everyday chores, tasks and nuances have been given significance. I’m enjoying walking the dog at night instead of dreading it because it’s gotten so cold. I’m sharing recipes with the girls so we can come up with dinner ideas together, and as for the laundry, well, at least it’s clean.

It’s not easy, but practicing mindfulness every day definitely feels like a step in the right direction and one big habit that I hope I can maintain throughout the year.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » JANUARY 2018 » 57

» a father’s view

JIM DW Y ER

Jim Dwyer is a Southwest Florida father of three boys.

Holiday 5K

O

ur family has a tradition of running in a holiday 5K each winter. We have been doing it for at least a decade, and it is a highlight of the season that we all look forward to.

I remember the first time that my son beat me in the race. I was running but expecting that at some point Jimmy might catch me if I hung back just a bit. After 3.1 miles, I crossed the line, The Dwyer family and to my surprise, Jimmy was already there. I never saw him, his older brother. He had just enough but he beat me by 15 seconds. That in the tank to make it to the line a few day, everything changed, and I went seconds ahead of Jimmy. from being the Superman Dad to The Distraught is probably too strong a Old Man in the span of 15 seconds. word, but Jimmy was not pleased that In the years since, Jimmy’s times have his younger brother had beaten him. gotten faster and faster, and predictHe said that if he had known where ably mine have not.

Tiernan was, he could have taken Since then, Jimmy smokes us all. off and crushed him. Alas, that is not Tiernan and Ryan fight for second how the results read. And so Jimmy place in the family while Cindy and set his eyes on the 2017 holiday 5K to I bring up the rear. Last year, though, reassert his dominance. something new happened. As the race A beautiful, sunny and cool mornstarted, Tiernan tucked in behind Jim- ing greeted our family this year as my and followed him for the whole we lined up for our annual tradition. race. Dying to hang on, he gave the Unfortunately, the rematch would race all he had and was still right not happen, because Tiernan was behind Jimmy as they made the final nursing his way back from a broken turn for the finish line only 100 yards ankle. Jimmy would have to suffer ahead. Determined to shock everyone, Tiernan’s verbal jabs for another year, Tiernan gave his final push and passed but at least today’s run would be fun.

58 » JANUARY 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

The race started as we waived at Tiernan the spectator and ran off for our 3.1 miles.

It was not a great race for Jimmy, but with Tiernan in a boot, there was nothing to prove. As he was approaching the last turn before the finish line, the unthinkable happened.

His youngest brother, Ryan, had been lurking behind him the whole time. He saw Jimmy on the course, and he fought to get behind him. Learning from Tiernan in his last race, he ran as hard as he could to keep up with Jimmy just ahead. Then at the final turn, he made his move. He accelerated and passed Jimmy. He had just enough left to get to the finish line and beat his older brother by a few seconds.

So we start another year of jabs and waiting for another chance.

Jimmy is searching for answers of how he got beaten by the same strategy two races in a row. Tiernan is convinced that he is still on top, if not for the ankle. Ryan is wearing the family medal with his win. My wife and I are just happy to have these three gems together, rivalry and all, and can’t wait to see what happens in the next 5K.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » JANUARY 2018 » 59