tampabayparenting.com
AUGUST 2017
SPECIAL SECTION
OH, BABY! Safe sleep Prepping siblings Registry must-haves and more!
SOLAR ECLIPSE
How to view safely
OUR FAVORITE EVENTS
page 56
BACK TO SCHOOL
safety tips BIG changes coming to MOSI GUEST EDITOR Kate Reed
PRESIDENT, ST. JOSEPH'S WOMEN'S & CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL
SOUTH TAMPA Edition
WE’RE HERE WHEN YOU NEED US
LOVE & CARE,365 days a year TWO CONVENIENT TAMPA BAY LOCATIONS CALL TO SCHEDULE A SAME - DAY APPOINTMENT. TRINITY
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Winthrop Town Center 11260 Suillivan Street Riverview, FL 33578
www.patampabay.com
2 TampaBayParenting.com | AUGUST 2017
Your Source for Exceptional Pediatric Care
With more than 200 pediatricians, pediatric specialists and family medicine physicians in Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas and Polk counties, care for your family is always nearby. As the area’s premier pediatric providers, we will continue to help your children stay healthy, with a wide range of services, including: n Asthma management
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n Immunizations n New baby care and separate well baby waiting room Thank you for allowing us to care for your family. BMGKids.org 17-84865-0617
AUGUST 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 3
Contents
OH, BABY! SPECIAL SECTION
10 GUEST EDITOR NICU: Helping our community’s newest members 12 BABY REGISTRY Local moms share their favorite products 14 HIGH RISK HELP How to help a friend on bed rest 15 SIBLING BONDING Tips to prepare siblings for baby 17 PRENATAL MASSAGE The benefits of touch 18 BREASTFEEDING FACTS Local expert shares tips and advice 21 SAFE SLEEP What you and your baby’s caregivers need to know 22 INFERTILITY How a difficult path can be worth the wait
HEALTH + WELLNESS
24 ASK THE DOCTOR What you really need in your hospital bag on delivery day
10
BEAUTY + STYLE
28 RUNWAY TRANSLATOR Style for the perfect picture 33 WHAT’S IN YOUR BAG? With blogger Diana Blinkhorn
28
EDUCATION
34 MILITARY EDUCATION An option to consider 36 SOLAR ECLIPSE How to safely view The Great American Solar Eclipse
LIFE + HOME
40 LEGAL ADVICE Why your family needs an estate plan now 42 BACK TO SCHOOL SAFETY Local Sheriff’s Office shares important tips
12
FOOD + DRINK
45 LOCAL FARMER SPOTLIGHT Farm to the local school lunch plate 46 EAT A RAINBOW The importance of a colorful diet and food prep tips
FAMILY FUN
49 MOSI CHANGES Enjoy the final weeks of favorite exhibits 50 PUERTO RICO A perfect family vacation spot
WHAT'S HAPPENING
52 AROUND TOWN Highlights from around Tampa Bay 56 TOP PICKS Our favorite August things to do
This month's cover kid is McKenna Uhler with her mom Amber.
Cover image by Darlene Barlows Photography 4 TampaBayParenting.com | AUGUST 2017
46 50
AUGUST 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 5
Guest editor note
GUEST EDITOR Kate Reed
CREATIVE DIRECTOR AND EDITORIAL MANAGER Laura Byrne
ASSOCIATE EDITOR Anu Varma Panchal
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Sarah Stoulil
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kate Reed Mike Mastry Capt. Tom McClelland U.S. Navy (Ret.) Col. Chad Chronister, HCSO Heather Barrow Robin Booth Watson, IBCLC Xandy Whitman Michelle Bremer Anna Tataris DeJesus Julian Mackenzie Anthony Pelaez Dr. Jill Hechtman, M.D., FACOG Diana Blinkhorn Laura Byrne Merris Pope Gonzalez Kate Kyres Kerri-Lyn Francis
CALENDAR Chris Kuhn
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Ralf Gonzalez Craig Collins
INTERN
Genesis Rivera
LAYOUT & DESIGN
Page Four Creative
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Darlene Barlows Photography Theresa NeSmith Photography
TAMPA BAY PARENTING MAGAZINE
320 W. Kennedy Blvd Ste. 220 Tampa, Florida 33606 Phone: 813-949-4400 Fax: 813-315-6688 info@tbparenting.com editor@tbparenting.com
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A PASSION for babies
I
’m honored to be serving as the guest editor for Tampa Bay Parenting magazine’s special baby edition. As a mother, former neonatal nurse and the new president of St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital and St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, you could definitely say that I’m passionate about caring for babies and kids. I grew up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and my career as a neonatal and flight nurse, clinical administrator and most recently, the senior vice president and chief strategy officer at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, led me to Boston, Virginia and Seattle. I’ve been married to my husband Peter for 24 years and we have two children—both adopted from Guatemala: 21-year-old Jacob and 20-year-old Sarah. Both our children are in college so we are emptynesters, excited about our relocation to Tampa. I’m grateful for the opportunity to get back to my roots in Women’s and Children’s health care services. A lot has changed since my time working as a nurse in Neonatal Intensive Care Units many years ago. Technology and best practices have evolved by leaps
and bounds. We now have respirators and medications specifically designed for preemies, transport teams no longer have to hitch a ride on military helicopters, and we’ve learned how important skin-to-skin contact between baby and mother is, no matter how fragile the infant. However, one thing that hasn’t changed is how compelling and rewarding it is to work on the team that cares for the smallest, most critical patients in our community. I knew Tampa was the right place for me as soon as I saw BayCare’s tagline ‘Humanity at Work’ and spent some time with team members at St Joseph’s. It is abundantly clear that this team passionately embraces providing extraordinary, customer-centered health care services. Taking this role feels like ‘coming home’ to me, but in a much warmer climate!
KATE REED, R.N. President, St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital and St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital BayCare Health System
Tampa Bay Parenting is published twelve times per year and distributed throughout the Tampa Bay community. Tampa Bay Parenting is not responsible for any errors, inaccuracies, omissions or incorrect information (or the consequences related thereto) contained within the magazine or online; readers should not rely on any information contained in the magazine and they should always consult with an appropriate professional for guidance. Tampa Bay Parenting accepts no responsibility for the consequences of error or for any loss or damage suffered by users of any of the information or materials provided by Tampa Bay Parenting. Some content published by Tampa Bay Parenting is sponsored or paid for advertising content, and some individuals quoted or cited in articles have paid for advertising or sponsorships; this content or opinions do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of Tampa Bay Parenting.
6 TampaBayParenting.com | AUGUST 2017
MORE WITH KATE REED ON Page 10
START PLAYING TODAY
Sometimes, the best way to conquer our fears is to view things in a different way. At St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, we give kids and parents new ways to look at going to the hospital, because when we understand the things that scare us, the monsters don’t seem so bad after all.
UnMonsters.org AUGUST 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 7 BC1605316-0916
sрecial delivery ANNOUNCING A
at St. Pete General Hospital
PERSONALIZED BIRTH EXPERIENCE
ONE-ON-ONE ATTENTION
PRIVATE ROOMS
QUALIFIED, EXPERIENCED STAFF Whether you’re starting a family or adding more joy to it, a new beginning awaits at St. Pete General Hospital. With more than 100 years of combined experience, the nurses and physicians at Family Beginnings are ready to deliver the birth experience you’ve been planning for with expert care and personalized attention. And, should the need arise, we partner with All Children’s Neonatologists for an advanced level of care. Our dedicated focus gives you the support you need, from certified lactation consultations to 2 a.m. back rubs and the encouraging cheer in the final push. Plus, our state-of-the-art private rooms and welcoming environment add to the delight of meeting your little one.
Celebrate your special delivery at Family Beginnings … where St. Pete babies are born. Visit us at www.StPeteGeneral.com/Family-Beginnings. #StPeteBabies CONNECT: 8 TampaBayParenting.com | AUGUST 2017 #StPeteBabies
OH, BABY! trends, tools, tips
Inside this section you'll find stories on preparing your child for a new baby, safe sleep tips, baby registry musthaves and more! Enjoy!
Oh, baby! Bringing home a new baby is such an exciting time, which is why we are dedicating this special section to expectant moms and new moms. Our cover kid winner McKenna Uhler is the perfect choice for our August cover as she welcomes her new baby brother to the world.
image by Darlene Barlows Photography AUGUST 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 9
and need extra care, and often care for twins or triplets who are born early. In the past, NICUs were often set up in a similar manner to adult ICUs, but now we know that the noise, activity and light of that sort of room were stressful not only to the families, but also to the babies. The developing brain and Central Nervous System need peace and quiet! In our NICU, we have effectively created an external womb for the babies. Each NICU room is a cocoon — the perfect combination of safe, warm, quiet, comfortable and high tech, with highly specialized caregivers just steps away. We take our commitment to family so seriously that, at first sight, it may be hard for families to believe that they are in a NICU. Our hospital was one of the first in Florida to introduce private rooms in a NICU. Moms snuggle in rocking chairs with their infant, skin to skin. ‘Kangaroo care’ is encouraged as much as possible, even if babies are intubated or hooked up to monitors. Parents can sleep, shower or relax in the private rooms. The lights are usually low, and everything in the family’s room is designed to minimize noise and stress. One of the few acceptable noisy distractions are excited siblings who visit their wee little sister or brothers. They usually quiet down quickly though, as they look in awe at the tiny babies who each seem to have their own personal space capsule. As for uncles and aunts in far-flung locales, they can sign up for Baby Watch sessions, when nurses will use iPads and an encrypted, secure
video feed to let all family members meet baby, regardless of distance. One of the most wonderful aspects of St. Joseph’s is that while it is a community hospital, it presents the benefits of a medical research facility without the complexity of one. We have led the region and even the country in introducing several new initiatives that ensure that our preemies thrive. One such initiative is our active cooling program. “Therapeutic hypothermia” is a process by which a newborn who may have suffered in utero from a lack of oxygen or blood to the brain is placed on a special cooling mattress that brings baby’s temperature down to 92 degrees. Doctors and nurses monitor the baby’s progress and then slowly bring the infant’s temperature back up to normal as the baby’s body and brain are ready to manage warmer temperatures. The earlier this cooling is initiated, the better it is for baby, that’s why our babies are so fortunate that we offer this service during transport to the NICU. Another cutting-edge initiative, one that St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital was the first in the area to provide—is the Breast Milk Donor Program. Study after study has shown what our ancestors already knew, that the benefits of breastmilk to a newborn’s immune system are beyond anything we can manufacture. But mothers of premature babies usually haven’t begun lactating yet. While our lactation experts help mothers’ bodies through a crash course, the infants can have donated breast
milk that our tiniest of newborns can safely consume. Because infant feeding is closely connected to their future speaking, speech therapists assess and stimulate feeding, and can perform tests such as X-ray swallow assessments to head off any future speech delays. Developmental therapists trained in occupational and physical therapy work on baby’s tolerance of touching and handling, auditory and visual stimulation, increased strength, and sucking, swallowing and breathing in the right order. Premature babies will receive hearing and developmental assessments, and we’ll help make arrangements for any follow-up care the baby and family might need. Here at St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital, we know that the newborns are not the only ones who need care at this time. Parents need care, too. We have classes on everything from how to massage an infant to how to understand the roles everyone on our NICU team plays in helping babies thrive. Being the parent of a neonate can be frightening, and we understand that parents may still be in shock at an unexpected birth, or feel guilty, disappointed or panicked about the way things turned out. We have support groups that help parents get through this time so they can focus on enjoying their new precious bundle of joy. Knowing that parents have the same goal that we do—a healthy baby and happy family—the St. Joseph’s team supports families every step of the way.
KATE REED is the new president of St Joseph’s Children’s Hospital and St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital. Mother of two, she is Tampa Bay Parenting's August guest editor.
AUGUST 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 11
BABY STUFF
Local moms share must-have items on your baby registry Xandy Whitman of The Practical Educator
THEPRACTICALEDUCATOR.COM 1 BABY BLACK SHEEP ORGANIC MUSLIN swaddle blanket XL 2 FISHER-PRICE MY LITTLE SNUG-A-PUPPY DELUXE bouncer 3 FISHER-PRICE PRECIOUS PLANET WHALE OF A TUB 4 ERGOBABY PERFORMANCE 3-POSITION baby carrier 5 AQUAPHOR ADVANCED THERAPY HEALING OINTMENT for diaper rash
Sheriss Crosskey of Tampa Bay Moms Blog
TAMPABAY.CITYMOMSBLOG.COM 1 THE MONTE ROCKWELL bassinet I love this! 2 baby bottles, by COMOTOMO 3 BINXY baby shopping hammock 4 TOOFEZE teethers 5 From diaper pails to baby spit-up odor absorbing, FRESH WAVE PRODUCTS
I'm obsessed
2 with these new 1
1
5
baby bottles.
-SHERISS CROSSKEY
4 More with Xandy Whitman as she writes about Sibling Bonding on page 15.
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5 OUR FAVES TAMPABAYPARENTING.COM
1 CHEWBEADS TEETHING JEWELRY prices vary 2 DOCKATOT $165.00 and up 3 IBABY MONITOR $149.95 and up 4 FREEMIE COLLECTION CUPS Compatible with many pump brands! $59.95 and up 5 DIONO CAR SEAT $299.99 and up 6 SOPHIE LA GIRAFFE $24.00
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3 2
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OH, BABY!
Diana Blinkhorn of The Gray Ruby Diaries
THEGRAYRUBY.COM
1 NATURSUTEN pacifier 2 COVERED GOODS nursing cover 3 DOCKATOT baby lounger 4 HOPE CARRIED ring sling 5 NOSEFRIDA nasal aspirator
1 3
More with Diana of The Gray Ruby Diaries on page 33.
1 7 3
4 1 4MOMS MAMAROO infant swing 2 BOPPY NEWBORN LOUNGER 3 CRANE Humidifier 4 COVERED GOODS nursing cover 5 BOB REVOLUTIONS stroller 6 BEAUTYCOUNTER baby wash 7 MAM pacifiers 8 GB LYFE TRAVEL SYSTEM
5
Christina Campbell of Mommy Spot Tampa Bay
MOMMYSPOTTAMPA.COM
7 BOPPY Shopping Cart cover $30.00 8 MILK SNOB cover $36.00 9 HABA baby toys. Prices vary. 10 SYKI BABY BATH SUPPORT: $24.99 11 TRANQUIL MAT $84.99 and up 12 SOOTHE SHIRT $75.00 13 MII SOPHIE LA GIRAFFE GLASS FEEDING BOTTLES (4oz & 9oz) $11.99 and up
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AUGUST 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 13
OH, BABY!
Get by with a little help
from a friend
Five ways to help a friend on hospital bed rest or in the NICU By Heather Barrow
High Risk Hope (HRH) has supported thousands of families fighting for their baby’s life on hospital bed rest or in the NICU. In 2014, one of those families included my close friend Jill, who was admitted to the hospital when her water broke months before her due date. I knew the uphill battle she faced because I had been through it in 2009 when my water broke at 24 weeks. My role shifted immediately from HRH Founder to someone who needed to support and encourage a friend fighting for the life of her baby. Here are my top five ways to help your friend (or their preemie) in the hospital: DELIVER A BED REST BASKET OR NICU NAPSACK. This thoughtful gift
is a critical package containing every item a preemie mom or mom-to-be needs to survive a long-term hospital stay. If your friend is ‘lucky’ enough to be a patient at one of HRH’s hospitals, she will receive one from HRH. If not, you can order a mini version starting at $30 from HRH’s online store and we will ship it to her! SET UP A MEAL DELIVERY. Hospital menus were not designed for patients who spend months in the hospital, and the food gets old quickly. Set up an online meal schedule with very close friends to deliver lunch or dinner each day to the hospital. BECOME YOUR FRIEND’S PERSONAL ASSISTANT. Only kidding, but
there are many things you can do that will be a help during 14 TampaBayParenting.com | AUGUST 2017
their hospital stay. A few ideas include: decorate her hospital room, clean her house, run errands, mow the lawn, drop off groceries at home, help set up the nursery and arrange a NICU shuttle. HELP HER CELEBRATE PREGNANCY MILESTONES. Every milestone
in the hospital warrants a celebration! A cake at 24 weeks, donuts at 28 weeks, and a baby shower at 32 weeks. Invite your friend’s hospital staff to thank them for all of their help and support. The positive energy you create is contagious and
will come back to your friend and her baby. TAKE CARE OF THE OTHER BABIES.
Whether it is older children or pets, offer to take them as much as possible. You can help by taking them to school, on play dates, sports practice and to hospital visits. Most of all, CONTINUE TO BE THE GREAT FRIEND you must be if you are reading this article. You will feel an incredible sense of accomplishment with every milestone this baby makes knowing you had a part in ensuring he arrived safely.
OH, BABY!
Sibling
Love
6 Ways to Encourage Your Toddler To Bond With Your New Baby
By Xandy Whitman
All mommies dream of watching their toddler fall in love with their infant sibling. The instant love-bond isn’t guaranteed, so naturally we all stress a little over creating this irreplaceable connection. I remember thinking, “How am I going to get my sass queen who loves to pitch a good fit at the most inopportune times to be calm and gentle around this
new baby growing in my belly?” What can you do to help your children be kind and caring towards one another? I have six simple suggestions: 1. Share your pregnancy with your toddler. Explain to her that you are growing a baby for the family and point out the baby’s features on your sonograms. Have conversations with your toddler about what she can teach her new sibling. 2. Allow your toddler to visit the new baby in the hospital and encourage her to bring something special to share with the baby. Our toddler brought her favorite blankie. Small toys would work too. 3. Make bathtime a bonding opportunity. We bathe our infant in a sink tub, so our
toddler sits on the counter to help. Everyone giggles when she decorates him with bubbles. She also enjoys unplugging the tub when the bath is over! 4. Read to your children and have your toddler point out features she thinks her new baby might want to learn. My toddler identifies animals and tries to teach him the noise each one makes. He laughs when she snorts like the pig. 5. Teach your toddler to soothe the baby. I taught mine how to give her brother his pappy. She feels so accomplished when she contributes to making him “not sad anymore.” 6. Give each of your children 15 minutes of uninterrupted “mommy time” every day. “Mommy time” will help prevent some of the jealousy and resentment you have probably read about. Your toddler will feel more comfortable with her new baby if she still feels special to you. My mom always taught us to celebrate our siblings’ successes and to respect one another’s differences. I adore my brothers; I even lived with one throughout college. Now, my husband (an only child) is also close to them. I want the same bond for my children. Overall, I think allowing your toddler to participate in caring for a new baby, giving her adequate mommy time and praying often is a great place to start.
XANDY WHITMAN is a Mommy Blogger, STEM Teacher and STEM Curriculum Developer. She lives in South Tampa with her husband and two children. Check out her blog and STEM material on her website, ThePracticalEducator.com. AUGUST 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 15
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OH, BABY!
Pregnancy MASSAGE By Kerri-Lyn Francis
Pregnancy is an exciting time of anticipation for a growing family and bonding between mother and an unborn child. Although adapting to pregnancy might sometimes be difficult, our team understands that this time is important and memorable for your family. That is why we do our best to help you both stay healthy and happy through massage, acupuncture and other therapies. There has been conflicting advice as to whether a massage in your first trimester is safe. Some doctors will advise a mother to avoid massage their first trimester because of the elevated chance of a miscarriage before 10 weeks. Other doctors disagree, stating that there is no supporting evidence that pregnancy massage during the first trimester is harmful and therefore, as long as you do not have any existing risk factors, it is your choice. It is important to speak to your doctor before receiving a massage to learn if any risk factors apply to you. During pregnancy, a hormone called relaxin loosens joints and ligaments in the body, preparing the hips for birthing. As the hips begin to tilt forward and center of gravity changes in later weeks, this hormone creates instability which can often be the culprit for ailments such as lower back pain, sciatic pain and feet getting wider.
Massage helps you get through the physically trying times during your pregnancy so that you can enjoy these moments with your family in stress-free anticipation. During your massage gentle stretching may help alleviate ailments discussed above. It is important to feel comfortable through your massage session. After about 12 weeks, our massage therapists will transition you to either our popular prenatal pillows that are especially designed for your personal comfort or left-side lying position. The reason for this is to remove unwanted stress to the low back, abdomen, uterine structures and your unborn child. It is important to know that a specially trained massage therapist recognizes acupressure and reflexology points during pregnancy massage. In developmental stages, massage helps your baby grow healthy tissue and circulation to reduce further complications. “KLynergy was an absolute life saver during my two pregnancies! Prenatal massage helped relieve my sciatic pain and their team helped educate me on the best stretches I could do to prevent worse pain,” says Alyssa Rhoads, Eventing Tampa Bay. KERRI-LYN FRANCIS owns of KLynergy Massage & Wellness and Terminal Getaway Spa, Tampa. Kerri-Lyn is
Pregnancy massage for expectant mothers has many pre and post-natal health benefits. Studies show that pregnancy massage can: • Reduce anxiety • Improve mood • Regulate hormones • Improve sleep • Relieve muscle or joint pain • Decrease hip or sciatic nerve pain • Improve gastrointestinal disturbances • Decrease the likelihood of complications • Prevent early labor FOR MASSAGE AND ACUPUNCTURE QUESTIONS, GO TO klynergywellness.com.
a NCBTMB certified instructor with 15 years experience as a massage therapist. AUGUST 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 17
OH, BABY!
Breastfeeding
Get off to a good start By Robin Booth Watson, IBCLC
18 TampaBayParenting.com | AUGUST 2017
Breastfeeding is the simplest, healthiest, and most cost effective way of feeding a baby. This is what our bodies were meant to do. However, during my 17 years of experience as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, I have witnessed and helped many new mothers through the initial difficulties that often occur. Sometimes, breastfeeding hurts, or baby can't latch on properly, or baby doesn’t gain weight. If you’re struggling
with any of these issues, a lactation professional can help. Sometimes, the fix comes from adjusting the positioning. Other times, the problem is that baby has a tongue or lip tie, which is why they can't latch on, or are causing mom pain. Without any effort, colostrum, your first milk, comes in about 20 minutes after you give birth and amounts to just a couple of teaspoons every couple of hours. At birth, a baby’s stomach is just the size of a cherry so teaspoons every couple hours is all a healthy baby needs. Your mature milk comes in any time from day 3 to 5. Nursing your baby every one-and-a-half to
two hours during the day and every two to three hours at night until baby has regained their birthweight and gone on to gain an ounce a day will give you and your baby the best start possible to breastfeeding. By nursing this frequently, you can usually avoid jaundice, baby weight problems and insufficient milk supply. At about two weeks of age, baby’s stomach is the size of their fist and can fit about the two ounces of breast milk your body now produces every couple of hours. No food, tea or supplements have been scientifically proven to boost your milk supply. The more you nurse or pump, the more milk you make. How do you know you have enough milk? Clues to a sufficient milk supply include: Baby is gaining an ounce a day from 2 weeks until 3 months; and/or baby has 3-6 poopy diapers and 6-8 wet diapers every 24 hours. Seek help from a breastfeeding professional for the following situations: baby can't latch; there is pain with breastfeeding; baby isn't gaining enough weight; mother has a medical condition like PCOS, diabetes or thyroid problems; or mom has had previous breast surgery. A breastfeeding professional can help you overcome these obstacles. Most nurses and physicians do not have breastfeeding training. Seek a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) who has attended a 45-hour course and passed an exam or an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) who has attended many classes and has hundreds or thousands of hours helping moms breastfeed before they can sit for the international exam. If you are having a problem, the sooner you seek help, the faster your problem can be fixed. In most cases, the longer you wait to seek help, the harder it can be to solve the breastfeeding issue. If you don't get the answer you think you should
from a lactation professional, find another to help. In fact, you can begin ensuring smooth sailing even while you’re pregnant by attending a breastfeeding group and prenatal class and collecting phone numbers of lactation professionals to call after you give birth. There are many resources in the Tampa Bay Area for help with breastfeeding. The Tampa Bay Breastfeeding Task Force has a resource page with a list of lactation professionals and nursing moms groups (tbbreastfeeding. org/breastfeeding-resources/). You can also probably find lactation professionals at your hospital or birth center, from homebirth midwife referrals, and from a list of those who come to your home for a fee which is often covered by insurance (with the exception of Medicaid). Support from other mothers is key to overcoming difficulties and breastfeeding successfully. Nursing moms groups were a key to my success in breastfeeding my three children. I created a Facebook Support Group—Tampa Bay Breastfeeding—in which all admins are certified lactation counselors or IBCLCs. A pregnant or breastfeeding mom can log in to the group 24 hours a day and there will probably be someone awake, an admin or mom, to answer their questions. I also run an in-person nursing mom support group in St Petersburg every Friday.
August is National Breastfeeding Awareness Month. You can celebrate during the The Global Big Latch at locations throughout Tampa Bay! Hillsborough County The Tampa Bay Breastfeeding Task Force hosts its event on Aug. 5 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the USF College of Public Health, 13201 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Tampa. There will be food, vendors, prizes and more! Learn more: tbbreastfeeding.org Pinellas County: The Florida Department of Health-Pinellas County is hosting its event at Empath Health on Friday, Aug. 4 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. at 3050 1st Ave S., St. Petersburg. There will be a clothing swap, door prizes, activities for kids and more! Pasco County: The Florida West Coast Breastfeeding Task Force will host its first Big Latch On Event on Aug. 5 from 9:30 a.m. to noon at the Florida Department of Health-Pasco office located at 11611 Denton Ave., Hudson. There will be food, raffle prizes and more! For more Tampa Bay locations, visit biglatchon.org
ROBIN BOOTH WATSON, IBCLC, is a private lactation consultant specializing in lip and tongue ties who offers home visits in Pinellas, Pasco and Hillsborough Counties and administers the support group Tampa Bay Breastfeeding on Facebook. Reach her at 727-642-1843 or Yrbwatson@gmail.com
AUGUST 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 19
OH, BABY
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OH, BABY!
Safe Sleep & Head Trauma
Speak to your child's caregivers By Kelley Parris
ABUSIVE HEAD TRAUMA PREVENTION Shaking an infant or young child – even once – can be fatal. In most cases of abusive head trauma, or shaken baby syndrome, the parent or caregiver does not mean to harm the child, but lacks the skills to handle a stressful situation. Practice and share these rules for head trauma prevention: 1. UNDERSTAND THAT CRYING IS NORMAL Crying is the way
infants communicate. A baby may cry because they are hungry, need their diaper changed, are teething, are too hot or too cold, or simply because they are over-tired. Prepare for the situations when your child might cry. 2. ATTEMPT TO SOOTHE THE CHILD If the obvious solu-
Before leaving your infant or toddler in someone else’s care, make sure they are prepared to keep your child safe from these preventable dangers. In the Tampa Bay area, nearly 130 infants died of preventable sleep-related causes in the last five years (2012-2016). Another 14 infants died of abusive head trauma, often related to shaken baby syndrome, in that same timeframe. In some of these of tragic cases, the infant died while in the care of someone other than a parent. As older children head back to school, the youngest members of your household may be entering new caregiving situations, whether at a daycare facility, or with a nanny or family member. Before leaving your child in someone else’s care, regardless of their level of experience, talk to them about the dangers of unsafe sleep and abusive head trauma, and make sure they are prepared to safely care for your child.
SAFE SLEEP PRACTICES Parents and caregivers should never co-sleep with a young child, as infants are 40 times more likely to die in an adult bed than in their own crib. In addition to never co-sleeping, practice and share these rules for safe infant sleep: 1. PRACTICE THE ABCS OF SAFE SLEEP The safest way for infants to sleep is Alone on their Backs in a Crib. This minimizes the risk of the infant suffocating, especially if they have not yet developed neck muscle control. 2. FOLLOW CRIB SETUP RECOMMENDATIONS Crib mattresses should be firm and fit snugly inside the crib’s frame. Sheets should fit tightly around the mattress and the sleeping area should be free of items that could cause a baby to suffocate, including blankets, pillows, bumper pads, stuffed animals, sleep positioners and toys. 3. BE PREPARED FOR NAPTIME AND BEDTIME AWAY FROM HOME If a child sleeps at a caregiver’s home, make
sure they have a safe sleeping arrangement, like a crib or pack-n-play with a fitted sheet. Do not use a blow-up mattress, which also poses a significant danger to infants.
tions do not seem to be working, try soothing your child by swaddling them in a blanket, slowly rocking them in a chair, humming or going for a walk. Parents should provide the child’s caregiver with a recommendation of what typically works. 3. REMEMBER IT’S OKAY TO TAKE A TIME OUT If a child is
crying and the situation becomes frustrating, it’s okay to leave the child safely on their back in the crib and step out of the room to regroup. Check on the child every few minutes to ensure they are still safe.
Learn more about keeping children safe at preventneedlessdeaths.com.
KELLEY PARRIS is Executive Director of The Children’s Board of Hillsborough County
AUGUST 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 21
OH, BABY!
Infertility How a difficult path can be worth the wait By Carley Boyette
As the daughter and granddaughter of twins, the thought never crossed my mind I would struggle to have children. In fact, growing up I always dreamed I would carry on the family tradition of having twins myself. So, you can imagine my surprise and disappointment when it came time for me and my husband to start a family, and month after month, nothing happened. No pink lines, no morning sickness, no excitement in figuring out how I was going to tell my family the “good news.” Being a mother was something I longed for, and my heart truly ached. Even though I knew others struggle with infertility much longer than I did, the disappointment and heartache that come with it are something I would not wish on my worst enemy. To make matters worse, everyone around me seemed to be getting pregnant. During those years of us trying to start a family, I remember attending a triple baby shower because three of my work friends were pregnant. It seemed I repeatedly watched women (both friends and family) announce their good news and start planning their new life of motherhood, all while I struggled with the feelings of guilt, frustration and confusion. I was constantly praying that if it wasn’t in the cards for me to be a mother, the desire be taken away. After two years of trying to get pregnant and some mild proce22 TampaBayParenting.com | AUGUST 2017
dures and treatments to help make it happen, it was time to see a fertility specialist. My husband and I had our initial appointment, and it was time to start making some big decisions. But at that time, I was mentally exhausted. I wasn’t sure how much longer I could ride on this monthly (if not daily) emotional roller coaster. I truly felt I was at my limit. That is when I once again turned to my faith. It was an early morning in January when I woke up feeling angry and desperate for peace. That morning God led me to the Bible story of Abraham and Sarah in which God promises Sarah she would have a son in a year’s time, despite her age. In the story, Sarah laughs at God and He replies, “Is there anything too hard for the Lord?” That moment is when my attitude changed. I finally realized I wasn’t in control. I had an overwhelming peace and sense of
hope come over me. Two weeks later, we found out I was finally pregnant. And to prove God has a sense of humor, six months after my daughter Tinsley Faith was born, we found out I was pregnant again. We are now the proud parents of a daughter and son who are only 15 months apart. I share my story because I hope it gives hope. I think we have all dreams and expectations about life and how things are “supposed” to happen. But what I have found out, as with most things in my life, when you trust in the bigger picture and know there is purpose in your journey (wherever it leads), all things can be used for good. And yes, even the pain of infertility can be worth the wait. CARLEY BOYETTE is the Co-host of Tampa Bay's Morning Blend on WFTS.
AUGUST 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 23
Health & Wellness | Ask the Doctor
BAGS, UNPACKED What do you put in the hospital bag? A mom and OB/Gyn answers By Dr. Jill Hechtman, M.D. FACOG, Medical Director Tampa Obstetrics
Packing for the hospital is a necessity that can be overwhelming. It's confirmation that things are about to get real! Here is a guide that I followed when packing my own hospital bag. In no way are all of these items absolutely necessary. Some are what I describe as creature comforts that enhance or help your experience. I have added a couple of "Dr. Jill" tips as well that come from a medical perspective.
BONUS TIP Consider bringing a bag of chocolates other snacks to share with the nursing staff. Maybe even a cool pen! They will be working very hard for you and a simple token goes a long way.
24 TampaBayParenting.com | AUGUST 2017
FOR MOM •
• •
•
• •
•
IMPORTANT PAPERWORK
Driver’s license or other ID, insurance card, birth plan or any paperwork your doctor asked you to bring, although this may be less necessary now with electronic record keeping. GLASSES or CONTACTS if you wear them. Don't forget the case and contact solution. TOILETRIES The hospital supplies them but if you want what you are used to, pack your own shampoo/ conditioner, deodorant, toothpaste/toothbrush, face cream, lotion, LIP BALM (it is very dry in the hospital), hair clip or ties. MAKEUP Certainly not necessary but come on now, there will be a ton of pictures!
•
•
NURSING BRA COMFORTABLE CLOTHING TO GO HOME IN Thankfully most
of us are not Princess Kate and do not need to look perfectly polished in a dress and heels! Think yoga pants and tee shirt or maxi dress. I also recommend flip flops. Your feet swell after delivery making it difficult to put shoes on. BATHROBE AND SLIPPERS to use
•
•
when your doctor tells you to get up and start moving! The hospital does provide "no slip" socks in case you do not have slippers. MAXI PADS The hospital provides pregnancy pads, but they are humongous, and make you feel like you are wearing a diaper. I recommend regular maxi pads for a more comfortable experience. DISPOSABLE UNDERWEAR To be honest, I was a huge fan of the mesh panties the hospital provides! Not at all sexy, but very functional. They are stretchy and loose, so if you have a C-section, it does not irritate your incision. They also hold that big pad in place to prevent leaks. If you are not a fan of the mesh panties, I recommend inexpensive cotton "granny panties." They will get stained, and you can just pitch them after! MUSIC, MAGAZINES, CROCHET KIT Bring things to help
occupy your time during down time. Consider a TOWEL FROM HOME. Hospital towels are thin and barely surround my non-pregnant torso!
FOR DAD Moms are so worried about what
we need at the hospital, we can frequently forget dad. Important items for dads to pack include:
• • • • • •
• •
TOOTHBRUSH/TOOTHPASTE/TOILETRIES PAJAMAS It is never fun walking in on dad in
his boxer briefs! Please stay covered! MULTIPLE CHANGES OF CLOTHES this way you can stay with your family without having to run home and change CAMERA/PHONE CHARGER, SNACKS (To help you through labor!) MONEY AND CHANGE for the vending machines NOTEPAD/PEN Make sure to write down any questions you may want to ask your nurse or doctor. It’s amazing how sleep deprivation makes you forget what you wanted to ask. AN EXTRA BAG When you leave the hospital it will be with more "stuff" than what you came with. Prepare for that! BOOK, HEADPHONES or something to help you occupy time/nervous energy.
FOR BABY • •
• • •
THE CAR SEAT You must pass the car seat test
before leaving the hospital. SPECIAL OUTFIT for baby to wear home and for pictures! Bring two or three- expect the meconium blowout or spit-up to ruin the first one. BABY BLANKET The hospital blankets are awesome! Really, you can use those, but if you want a special one, bring it. BABY BOOK If you are planning one, this is the best way to get footprints or even your caretakers’ signatures in. A BABY NAIL FILE/MITTENS to prevent scratches on baby’s face
DR. JILL HECHTMAN is medical director of Tampa Obstetrics, board certified by the American Board of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, former Board of Trustees member at HCA Hospital Brandon and Chairman of Obstetrics and Gynecology at St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital. Dr. Jill is a frequent medical contributor on News Channel 8. AUGUST 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 25
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Beauty + Style | Runway Translator
PHOTOS BY THERESA NESMITH PHOTOGRAPHY
Kids fashions provided by Why Tots Boutique and Silly Dilly Tot Spot in Tampa.
MICHELLE BREMER is a busy full-time working wife and mother of two active children.
She owns Runway
Translator, a full-service fashion styling firm. She also volunteers in the community with The Junior League of Tampa and Dress for Success Tampa Bay. RunwayTranslator.com
28 TampaBayParenting.com | AUGUST 2017
Y
our kids are getting along famously... no fighting, no arguing, just smiles and sweetness. Now capture that moment and frame it so you can gaze fondly upon it over and over again, especially when they turn around and grow up on you. As far as kid portraits go, I'm a huge fan of styling the shoots in a casual, familiar manner. Natural light photographer, Theresa NeSmith agrees. Enter my kids, the models shown here. We created a scene tailored for them. This tends to evoke more natural smiles and it helps the children relax and have fun. Consider the subject, your child, and try to find props that allow them to express themselves in ways that represent who they actually are at this time in their lives. If they like to read, use
books. If they like to dance, play their favorite music and watch them bust a move for the camera. The end result is usually a wonderfully endearing framer that you and your family can adore for generations to come. In addition to creating a great backdrop, an equally important part of the 'perfect kid portrait formula' is, of course, their wardrobe. Rather than dressing them in matching onesies or overly thought-out ensembles, find pieces that complement the scene and represent the best of your kid's sweet personality. When working with two or more, try to coordinate the color scheme of the looks without being too contrived. Be sure to pump up the style factor ever so slightly, this is a portrait after all. The key is to think of this experience as a captured moment in time, plucked directly from the pages of the most stylish version of your life's book. While there is something quite stately and classic about a formal family portrait, we have found that these casual shoots tend to make the kids feel more comfortable, which usually translates to lots of smiles and great photos.
THERESA NESMITH, a wife and mom to three, owns Theresa NeSmith Photography. She specializes in women and family portraits, capturing the essence of her clients. She shoots on location and in her natural light studio in Tampa. 813-469-4021/ theresanesmithphotography.com
AUGUST 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 29
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sealswimschool.com 30 TampaBayParenting.com | AUGUST 2017
South Tampa Parenting YOU R N E I G H BO R H OO D
The Johnson family of South Tampa. Photo by Darlene Barlows Photography.
STRIKE A POSE
South Tampa locations for your next family photo
Whether you are working with a pro or taking your own family photo, our cover photographer Darlene Barlows of Darlene Barlows Photography shares her favorite locations to capture your family’s forever memories.
1 Hyde Park area and Anderson Park 802 S. Rome Ave. 2 The Riverwalk downtown Tampa 3 Cypress Point Park 5620 W. Cypress St. 4 University of Tampa 401 W. Kennedy Blvd. 5 Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park 600 N. Ashley Drive
SOUTH TAMPA EDITION
An way to party in South Tampa By Laura Byrne
Five years ago when I was expecting my first child, I met Kate Kyres, children’s book author and owner of children’s boutique Silly Dilly’s on MacDill Avenue. The former attorney has a whimsical imagination like no one else I have met. Her boutique is truly enchanting. She not only has an eye for pretty things, but also unforgettable parties, which is why she transformed part of her boutique into a beautiful room she calls The Enchanted Spot to host parties, gatherings and more. We asked Kate to share more about her vision for The Enchanted Spot. FOR THOSE UNFAMILIAR WITH YOUR BOUTIQUE, WHAT IS THE ENCHANTED SPOT? Silly Dilly's is a "joy
peddler." I write my stories and hold gatherings and celebrations in The Enchanted Spot (TES) within Silly Dilly's. The Enchanted Spot is a storybook tea party setting encouraging learning, celebrating and dreaming within a beautiful enclave. TES’s concierge is The Kindful Mouse and he hosts his own Social Intelligence Workshop monthly. I provide a Social Intelligence 1-hour Primer for Cubs, Brownies, Boy and Girl Scouts at $15 per Child.
TES' aim is a story in itself as it seeks to educate, celebrate and comfort those who visit. All celebrations from birthdays, baby showers to bon voyage parties and meetings from social, networking to business brainstorming benefit from the loving details of TES. WHAT ARE BABY SHOWERS LIKE AT TES? baby showers are
tailored to a theme. The most popular one is the Storybook Baby Shower. TES is the perfect petite place to celebrate a new baby story. Baby Showers are $300 for 24 guests (not including food). WE HEAR YOU EVEN HOST BABY SHOWERS FOR GRANDPARENTS. WILL YOU TELL US MORE? I began Silly
Dilly's nine years ago as the Fairy Grandmother's Favorite Shop so I tirelessly work my fairy fingers to provide beautiful, memorable "First Time Grandparent Soirees." First Time Grandparent Soirees are $300 and include the food. Guests bring their favorite childhood storybook to give to the Grandparents for The Grandparents' Library. As I grew up in my grandfather's antique store and mother's country store, I cherish generational stories. I have a collection of old books that we peruse to bring out fond memories.
The 2-hour parties are tailored to a TES theme and TES does all of the work. It provides the decorated venue, all unique tableware, food, party favors, prizes and original activities. Some TES themes are: Enchanted Travels, Travel to France, Neverland Pirates, Work of Art, Clever Knights, Maleficent's Soiree, Mermaid, Wonderland and Royal or Fairy Tea. Price is $600 for eight children (4-5 years) with guardians or for 12 children (6 years and older). For children 8 years and above, it’s an additional $20 per child up to 16 children.
Children's Parties are special KATE KYRES
SOUTH TAMPA EDITION
MUSICAL ARTS PIANO CONSERVATORY JUDITH CATALDO, DIRECTOR
Piano lessons and classes for every age Classes start September 5 Register Now! PIANO IS OUR PASSION!
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SOUTH TAMPA EDITION
16 PLACES
where kids eat free! By Merris Pope, Founder of Hulafrog-South Tampa Managing Editor
Have you heard of Hulafrog? Hulafrog is a guide filled with local things for kids to do. It’s a national company with sites in communities all over the country run by local moms or dads, and I’m the managing editor for the South Tampa site. We have an events calendar listing anywhere from 10-30 events daily and we send out newsletters multiple times a week highlighting upcoming local events and activities. The best part is that it’s FREE to subscribe! Hulafrog is also a mobile friendly site so you can check the calendar while you’re on the go! One highlight of Hulafrog is our weekly Hot List that features businesses or events focusing on a specific, kid-friendly topic.
It’s hard to believe that it is already time
dreading the hustle and bustle or looking
to head back to school. With the lazy days of
forward to it, it’s best to be prepared. Who
Your Pie, Sally O Neal’s Pizza and Louis
A few of our favorites are BurgerFi, Evos,
summer behind us, schedules will quickly
has time to cook dinner? Hulafrog is here to
Pappas Fresh Greek. But you can’t go wrong
start to fill up with after-school activities,
help with the “dinner” part of your day with
at any of these family-friendly dining spots
homework, weekend soccer games, school
a list of local restaurants in South Tampa
where you can enjoy a meal (no cooking or
events and PTA meetings. It’s a balancing
where kids can eat FREE. Most require
clean up!) and you’ll save a little money too.
act to get everything accomplished each
purchase of an adult meal, but mom and
day—carline, math tutoring, karate,
dad need to eat too, right?
swim team, dance class, violin practice, homework, dinner—and whether you’re
SOUTH TAMPA KIDS EAT FREE PREP HOT LIST
1 Burgerfi Tampa TUESDAY 9 Little Greek MONDAY 2 Evos SUNDAY 10 Beef O Brady’s TUESDAY 3 Louis Pappas Fresh Greek SUNDAY 11 Holy Hot TUESDAY 4 Lee Roy Selmon’s MONDAY 12 Koto Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar TUESDAY 5 Your Pie MONDAY 13 Zudar’s WEDNESDAY 6 The Ranch House Grill MONDAY AND TUESDAY 14 The Press Box THURSDAY 7 Sally O’Neal’s Pizza MONDAY, TUESDAY AND 15 Steak ‘n Shake SATURDAY AND SUNDAY WEDNESDAY 16 IHOP South Tampa EVERYDAY 4 P.M.-9 P.M. 8 Village Inn MONDAY AND TUESDAY
MERRIS POPE is the founding managing editor of Hulafrog South Tampa, a community guide that provides a daily list of activities, weekend events, local classes, camps and more! Proud mom to Avery, 6 and Miles, 3.
SOUTH TAMPA EDITION
FOLLOW Hula Frog-South Tampa at hulafrog.com/south-tampa-fl to find more Hula Frog Hot Lists. SUBSCRIBE to their newsletter and discover more family-friendly events and activities in South Tampa!
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SOUTH TAMPA EDITION
Things to do in south tampa For more events, see our full calendar at TampaBayParenting.com
POP ART STUDIO Through Aug. 13 Learn about and experiment with Pop Art techniques at Glazer Children’s Museum in downtown Tampa. Visitors will be introduced to silkscreen, rubber stamping and more. Turn everyday objects into art and create comic strip masterpieces. glazermuseum.org Everyone
CLOSE UP CRITTERS TOUR AT THE FLORIDA AQUARIUM Daily, 11:30 a.m. & 2:30 p.m. Get an up-close encounter with three of the animal residents. Find out about their unique adaptations and abilities and how we can care for them at The Florida Aquarium. The tour costs $8 in addition to admission price. Flaquarium.org Everyone
LET IT SNOW BLOCK PARTY: HYDE PARK VILLAGE Aug. 3, 5 p.m.- 8 p.m. Celebrate the grand opening of Snow Avenue and Snow Circle during Hyde Park Village’s Let it Snow Block Party! There will be live entertainment, in-store events, giveaways, games and more! Everyone
ONCE UPON A DREAM Aug. 4-6, various times See Patel Conservatory students in grade 9 through college perform the most celebrated classic and contemporary songs from Disney films and the musical songbook at Straz Center’s TECO Theater. Tickets start at $20. strazcenter.org Everyone
BABY AND TODDLER YOGA Aug. 4, 11, 18 and 25 11:30 a.m. to 12:05 p.m. Introduce babies or toddlers to fun interactive song and movement as part of this special weekly activity led by Lucky Cat Yoga at Jan Kaminis Platt Regional Library in Tampa. Children will learn basic postures and yoga breathing. For information, call 813-273-3652. 6 months - 5
FRESH MARKET AT HYDE PARK VILLAGE Aug. 8, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Shop locally produced foods and handcrafted items at this monthly South Tampa outdoor market. Browse nearby stores while listening to live music and try one of the many neighborhood restaurants for lunch. Admission and parking are free. Leashed dogs are welcome. hydeparkvillage.com Everyone
TEA FOR TOTS AT OXFORD EXCHANGE Aug. 27, 2 p.m. Let the wild rumpus begin! Spend the afternoon with your child at Oxford Exchange for tea and a story. The August story will be the beloved "Where the Wild Things Are." This monthly event usually sells out, so pre-purchase your ticket today. Adults $18 and children $10. Includes tea and light fare. Visit oxfordexchange.com to purchase your tickets. SOUTH TAMPA EDITION
Justin Moore
Pig Jig Market
Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats
BBQ Competition
JOIN US FOR THE 7TH ANNUAL TAMPA PIG JIG ON THE RIVER
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2017 1pm-10pm • Curtis Hixon Park • Downtown Tampa
2017 LIVE MUSIC LINEUP Co-Headliners Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats and Justin Moore Stoplight Observations and more!
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AUGUST 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 31
Save Dates #TBFW #FWTB #TBFASHIONWEEK #FASHIONISASTORY
Visit
32 TampaBayParenting.com | AUGUST 2017
FashionWeekTampaBay.com to see participating designers, event schedule, ticket information, and more!
What's in your Bag? with blogger Diana Blinkhorn of thegrayruby.com
What’s In Your Bag? | Beauty + Style From her 115-year old farmhouse in The Heights, Diana Blinkhorn chronicles her days with her husband, pup and three messy-haired baby girls, writing about the perception of “balancing it all” and giving an inside look into the real and raw side of motherhood on Thegrayruby.com. “I want to redefine what it means to have 'mom style,'” says Diana. “I like yoga pants and Nikes just as much as the next mom, but when it comes to my diaper bag, I want one that is sophisticated, stylish and functional. I don’t want to give up on the idea of having a stylish bag just because I am a mom.”
I love my NEWLIE DIAPER BAG. It is beautiful, filled with tons of pockets, easy to clean, and even has an insulated compartment.
WATER BOTTLE in my bag and I've noticed it helps me reach my daily H2O goals. A good pair of SUNGLASSES can instant-
What makes it even better is that it's reason-
ly help you feel put-together, especially
ably priced. I get compliments on this bag all
on those days when your little ones were
the time so I make sure to tell all of my new
keeping you up all night. The bags under
mom friends about this great find.
your eyes aren’t there if no one can see
AVEDA TINTED MOISTURIZER is by far my favorite tinted moisturizer. Most days my
them. Lets talk real life. We are running late
makeup routine is pretty much nonexistent
like always, my daughter forgot her shoes
as I’m juggling all three girls. This is my go-
and the baby needed her pacifier and I
to, a few dabs and it gives me the perfect glow. rushed out of the house and totally forgot I always make
the deodorant on the hottest day of the
sure my kids are
whole year. These (DEODORANT) WIPES
hydrated but I’m
have saved me quite a few times.
not so good about
Between ballet and gymnastics, swim
watching out for
lessons and play dates, my mom brain
myself. Recently
can’t keep it all together. Yes, I have my
I’ve started keep-
phone, but I never feel quite as organized
ing a REFILLABLE
as when I write it down in a PLANNER.
AUGUST 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 33
Education | Military education
Military School 5 Reasons why it may be perfect for your teen. By Capt. Tom McClelland, U.S. Navy (Ret.)
Does your teen thrive in a structured environment? Is it important that they be involved and belong to something bigger than themselves? Are they interested in serving their country? There are many reasons a teen may choose a private military school instead of a traditional private school. A common misconception is that all military schools are like boot camp, but that is far from the truth. Here are five reasons why you may want to consider a private school that offers military structure in high school. Many families choose the boarding option at military schools.
34 TampaBayParenting.com | AUGUST 2017
SPONSORED
1.STRONG CORE VALUES Students are accountable to live out the school’s core values such as integrity (being of strong moral character), self-discipline (making good choices), perseverance (accomplishing one’s goals) and wellness and fitness (to achieve their full potential).
2. STRUCTURE AND PURPOSE A military private school provides the structure necessary for students to learn discipline, respect and time management skills. Students are also challenged and expected to create goals, reach those goals and ultimately discover their purpose.
3.PRIDE AND RESPECT Teens are expected to wear their military uniform with pride and respect. On a daily basis, they must be clean cut with their uniform pressed and shoes shined. It teaches them to take pride in how they appear and as the saying goes, “When you look sharp, you feel sharp.”
4.LEADERS AND ROLE MODELS At military schools, students, known as cadets, are required to actively lead their peers and be role models to younger students. Some PreK-12 private schools are military only in 8th-12th grade, and, starting in PreK, the younger students look up to the older students and are excited to reach the time when they too can wear the uniform and lead.
5.NOMINATIONS, APPOINTMENTS AND SCHOLARSHIPS Admiral Farragut Academy, an honor naval school in St. Pete, is allowed to give out six nominations to the U.S. Naval Academy, five to the U.S. Air Force Academy and three to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. This is an outstanding advantage for those students interested in pursuing a military career or wanting to receive full-tuition ROTC scholarships in college. A military school is a place where teens find success because the approach to leadership transforms, inspires and empowers young people to create a positive change in their school and communities. Is your teen up for the challenge? Do you want your child growing up in an environment that asks them to live on purpose, with purpose? If the answer is yes, a private school with a high school military structure may be the perfect fit.
Students who attend the honor naval military school in St. Petersburg called Admiral Farragut Academy are required to learn how to sail at the school's waterfront prior to high school graduation.
Upper School students mentor and educate Lower School students.
CAPT. TOM MCCLELLAND U.S. NAVY (RET.) After serving over 30 years as a naval aviator, in 1998, Capt. Tom McClelland joined Admiral Farragut Academy and served as the director of naval science for 17 years. Today he is a development officer and continues to help cadets earn their service academy appointments and ROTC scholarships.
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AUGUST 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 35
Education | Solar eclipse
The Great American SOLAR ECLIPSE
What to do for safe viewing. By Julian Mackenzie
You hear it all the time. People say something’s “historic” or “once-in-a-lifetime” or “the first time ever.” Well, the Great American Eclipse coming up on Aug. 21 actually lives up to all of that and more! For the first time since the United States was born in 1776, we’ll see a total solar eclipse that’s contained entirely within the USA. All the way from Oregon to South Carolina, people will experience moments where the sun is completely blocked by the moon. Here in Tampa Bay, more than 80 percent of the sun will be covered for a few moments, so the daylight will get substantially darker — and it will be awesome! The eclipse will begin in Tampa Bay at about 1:17 p.m., reach its darkest point at 2:49 p.m., and be all over at 4:14 p.m. JULIAN MACKENZIE is the new CEO of MOSI, the Museum of Science & Industry. His wife Deborah and three children — Alexandra, 22, William, 18, and Beatrice, 14 — have traveled with him around the world as he has led a wide range of companies and organizations in the USA, France, the UK, the Netherlands and Italy.
36 TampaBayParenting.com | AUGUST 2017
MAKE A PINHOLE ECLIPSE VIEWER Here are the basics for a great family project — making your own eclipse viewer! Close the top of a cereal box and cut two openings in the top, removing about an inch of cardboard at each end of the top, next to the short edges.
DON’T LOOK UP! Hold on — even with more than 80 percent of the sun covered, it’s still not safe to look directly at the sun! There are three safe ways (including one really fun family project!) to watch the eclipse:
Cover one of those openings with aluminum foil and tape the foil in place. Put a piece of tape in the middle of the foil and, using a small nail, poke a hole through that tape and the foil underneath the tape. Now, stand with your back to sun and look into the remaining opening
1. ON TV AND ONLINE You’ll be able to
in the box top. The sun will shine
watch the eclipse live with video from locations all over America on cable channels and streaming online. 2. WITH THE RIGHT GLASSES Normal sunglasses won’t cut it. You’ll need special solar eclipse lenses that you can order in advance online. Amazon has a 10pack of glasses for about $13. 3. USING A PINHOLE ECLIPSE VIEWER Get instructions online and use items from around your house to create a handheld gadget to track the eclipse.
through the pinhole and you’ll see its image projected on the inside of the box bottom. Experiment with pinhole sizes to make sure you can see a round disc — during the eclipse, you’ll see the moon’s outline blocking out our beloved sun! You can get more instructions and pictures online (search for “cereal box eclipse viewer”) or come visit MOSI on Aug. 5, 6, 12 or 13 and build one with us during our two-weekend All-American Eclipse Festival that’s included with MOSI admission!
AUGUST 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 37
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Life & Home | Legal advice SPONSORED
Do You Know What Would Happen To Your Kids If Something Happened to You?
This Story Will Break Your Heart
The answer may surprise you…
In 2006 Casey and Melanie Barber were on a summer vacation with their three children when their van blew a tire and spun out of control, resulting in a horrifying accident that left Casey and Melanie dead. Miraculously, all three of their boys survived the accident. In the aftermath of the accident there was confusion among family members concerning who would care for the children. Because the Barbers left no clear instructions, this confusion
ultimately resulted in a court battle over custody of the boys (and their inheritance) that lasted for more than a year, involved no less that nine different attorneys and cost hundreds of thousands of dollars in attorney and court time. In the end, the court appointed a legal guardian who may or may not have been the person who Casey and Melanie would have wanted to raise their children. We’ll never know because they never made their wishes known.
It Doesn’t Have to Be That Way for Your Family… Like many parents with minor children at home, the Barbers didn’t take the time to put a plan together that would have protected their children after their accident. “Many parents have so many questions about estate planning and feel so overwhelmed by the thought of their children being raised without them that they procrastinate and do nothing at all,” says St. Petersburg attorney, Mike Mastry. He adds, “I know how it feels. I’m a dad too.” “The most important thing that any parent can do is name a guardian for their children,” explains Mastry. “Most people don’t realize that if you don’t legally name a guardian to raise your children, then the courts will do it for you; and they may not choose the person that you would have wanted.”
system. Getting information about the basics of a good estate plan is the first step. The second step is to speak to an estate planning attorney about your unique family dynamic and your specific goals questions, offer advice for how to best provide for your children, and craft a plan that meets your needs. With a good attorney, the process of estate planning shouldn't be intimidating, difficult or even time consuming. It should however be a fundamental requirement for every parent.
Every loving parent understands the need to have a plan in place should something happen to them. Unfortunately, there is a lot of misunderstanding surrounding wills, trusts, and the court
Attorney Mike Mastry is committed to preserving the legacy of individuals and families as a lawyer focusing on Estate Planning Law. He is also a dedicated father and husband, an accomplished woodworker, and a third-generation fisherman who grew up on Florida's Gulf Coast.
Are You Living with A False Sense of Security? A Parent’s Lack of Knowledge and Misunderstanding About Estate Plans and Wills Can End Up Hurting Their Children
In this free report, A Parent’s Guide to Protecting Your Children Through Estate Planning, we reveal the most frequently asked questions that we hear from parents of minor children, and the questions that parents should be asking to best protect their children. In this report, you will discover: • The legal documents that every parent must have to best protect their children; • Important documents that most estate planning attorneys rarely discuss with their clients; • How to choose the right guardian for your children; and • As a bonus, we show you how to choose the right estate planning attorney for families who have children at home. Take the first step toward insuring that your children will be taken care of, no matter what happens to you. Download your free copy of A Parent’s Guide to Protecting Your Children Through Estate Planning at www.MastryLawParentsGuide.com
40 TampaBayParenting.com | AUGUST 2017
A Parent’s Guide to Protecting Your Children Through Estate Planning is a must-have resource for every parent.
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Life + Home | Back to school safety
BACK TO SCHOOL Safety Walk, Ride or Bike the smart way
As we head back into a new school year, it is so important for parents to sit down with their children and talk about safety, whether their child is walking to school, riding their bike or taking the bus. It is equally as important for parents and motorists to be alert when they are on the road. Because the Tampa Bay area is such a metropolitan area, the extra volume of traffic when school is in session creates all sorts of issues for law enforcement, which is why we asked Colonel Chad Chronister with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office to answer some common questions we hear from parents. Traffic safety is paramount. Because we are such a metropolitan area, the extra volume of traffic when school is in session creates all sorts of attendant issues: pedestrian safety (particularly at crosswalks); school zone speed limits; school bus stopping issues; harried parents; and students on bikes (and foot) watching their cell phones instead of the road. Q: WHAT SHOULD I TELL MY CHILD ABOUT SCHOOL BUS SAFETY? A: Follow the rules. Follow the rules. And follow the rules. The bus drivers make multiple stops on their routes, and those particular stopping points have been researched and designated for student safety. Tell your children to always cross at a crosswalk to get to the bus stop. Never dart across the road to save time or steps. The bus door opens on the right for a reason: to prevent cars from passing on the same side. Tell your children to put their heads on swivels, and watch around them whenever they are headed to their bus stop or getting on the bus. Then there is school bus etiquette for the riders. The bus driver will set the rules for the safety of everyone. Tell your child to listen and be safe.
Q: WHAT SAFETY TIPS CAN YOU SHARE FOR WALKERS AND BIKE RIDERS? A: To the parents: Scout the route your child will take. Walk it or ride it. Know the terrain, the hazards and the crossings. To the children: Walk with an adult, or if not, walk with another student. Four eyes are better than two. Phone down, eyes up! Pay attention to the sidewalk, not the latest text. Don’t wear headphones. Keep your ears free to hear things, such as sirens and car horns. Bicyclists need to learn the rules. Always look left, right and left again when crossing the road and be particularly aware of vehicles making turns. Got helmets? Wear them, every time. Get off the bike at crosswalks and walk the bike to the other side. Obey the school crossing guard. They are trained to keep you safe.
42 TampaBayParenting.com | AUGUST 2017
Q: WHAT DO MOTORISTS NEED TO KNOW? If we could scream a message to motorists it would be, “Phone down. Eyes up!’’ Motorists must understand the increase in traffic that will accompany the start of school: Parents in a hurry, school buses packed with students on timetables, children out walking or riding their bikes. The elements for accidents or tragedies are ever present during the school year. If motorists simply slow down, avoid distracted driving, and drive like it’s your own child out there walking to school or riding that school bus, we’d all be safer. And lastly, motorists need to know that the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office will be out in full force come Aug. 10 to ensure the safety of each and every student!
Q: WHEN IS A GOOD AGE TO LEAVE MY CHILD HOME ALONE AFTER SCHOOL? There is no perfect answer to that question. Each parent or caregiver must assess the child’s maturity and ability to be alone. There is no defined age that sets the benchmark, and it really is an individual case-by-case decision for a parent.
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The Early Learning Coalition of Pasco & Hernando Counties Inc. believes that a good start means a great future and that children are our community’s most precious resource. Early learning and strong family connections build a strong foundation for kids to grow on.
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THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, 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 FEE, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT. WEIGHT LOSS MAY VARY AMONG PARTICIPANTS DEPENDING ON STARTING WEIGHT AND LEVEL OF ADHERANCE TO PROGRAM.
Local farmer spotlight | Food + Drink
GROWING A
healthy lunch
The buzzing of the early morning alarm clock and the ringing of the school tardy bell: August is here and the mornings are about to get even more hectic for moms or dads checking backpacks and packing lunch for the little ones. Luckily for many parents, more and more school lunchrooms are serving up healthy and nutritious meals. Florida is one of the few states in which the School Nutrition Program falls under the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). The department promotes farm to school programs that connect local farmers and ranchers to schools so that students know what foods are grown in their own state and learn to have an appreciation for agriculture.
Jones Potato Farm leads the way in environmental stewardship. Through best management practices and precision watering, the farm has reduced overall water consumption by more than 50 percent.
Our children are the foundation for the future. If we can get children interested and excited about learning where their food comes from, the more they will want to advocate for agriculture.
Leslie Jones, Jones Potato Farm
Jones Potato Farm in Manatee County is one of many farm enterprises in Florida that reach deep into the community to help improve awareness of agriculture. Leslie and Alan Jones bring farm fresh produce into Sarasota and Manatee County Schools by participating in the Farm to School program. The farm supplies about 15,000 pounds of potatoes each year to the county schools. One of the lunch menu items served in Sarasota schools is an herb-roasted potato dish. The main ingredient is a red potato, grown fresh on Jones Potato Farm. “Educating the community and children about the importance of farming is the core of it all,” explains Leslie Jones. “We have such great excitement when we pull out the school menus and there’s Jones Potato Farm on the menu. We’re proud to be able to contribute to our community in that way.”
AUGUST 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 45
Food & Drink | Eat a rainbow
Short step-by-step vegetable/fruit preparation for lunch boxes. STEP 1 Wash! Wash
your hands. Wash the fruit or vegetable and wipe it dry with a clean paper towel. No special cleaner is necessary for the produce, just clean running water. Rub it well, down in any crevices too, then wipe it dry. This will remove most bacteria that might be hiding on the surface. STEP 2 Slice, dice, peel
or prepare the fruit or vegetables however you want. For small children use sizes that won’t be a choking hazard and that are small enough for little fingers to handle easily.
RAINBOW on your plate Why is it important to eat colorful food?
46 TampaBayParenting.com | AUGUST 2017
STEP 3 Package The more colors of fruits and vegetables you eat, the happier your body will be. Why? Many compounds in fruits and vegetables that boost our immune systems, keep our memories sharp and help our vision stay strong are tied to or may actually be the compounds that provide the color. So the more colors you get the more protection you have. Also, different fruits and vegetables provide different vitamins and minerals. No one has them all. Eating a wide variety of different fruits and vegetables helps you get all of them. And getting your vitamins and minerals from real foods, instead of pills, means that your body will usually absorb and use them better. Also—think about the MyPlate logo (choosemyplate.gov) that children in schools are often shown. Vegetables are green, fruits are red, grains are orange, proteins are purple and dairy is blue. Eating from all the food groups ensures that your body will get the full range of nutrients it needs.
them in individual serving sizes in clean containers. STEP 4 Refrigerate. This
is important! Once fruit or vegetables have been cut they should not be at room temperature for more than two hours max. The cutting or peeling has opened up the insides and left juices out. Those juices are great places for bacteria to grow. So they must be kept cold to stop the growth. STEP 5 Pack the lunch
with an ice pack, a frozen bottle of water or juice or other way to keep the prepared food cold until it is eaten.
GROW
Recipes contributed by Dr. Mary Keith
Campers with the University of Florida/IFAS Hillsborough County Extension Service spent their break learning about environmental stewardship and how to create their own vegetable and herb gardens. Part of the summer camp program included education on water conservation, soil composition, pruning and how to identify good bugs and bad bugs. To learn more about getting your child involved, visit hillsborough.ifas.ufl.edu. If interested in participating in 2018, contact Debra Evenson, Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful, (813) 221-8733, or Lisa Meredith, UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County, (813) 744-5519 x 54146.
YOGURT DIP FOR FRUIT INGREDIENTS 1 cup plain low-fat Greek yogurt 2 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar) 1 teaspoon lemon juice ¼ teaspoon cinnamon, or ½ teaspoon ground ginger, or ½ teaspoon curry powder PREPARATION Mix together, adjust sweetness if desired and serve with fruit slices. Or, put cubes of fruit on short kebab skewers or toothpicks and dip in the sauce.
EASY CUCUMBER SALAD Serves 4 INGREDIENTS 1 large cucumber 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt or sour cream 1 tablespoon cider vinegar ½ teaspoon sugar 2 tablespoons fresh dill or parsley, snipped (Optional: half a small onion)
PREPARATION Wash the cucumber. Slice into thin rounds. Add salt to cucumbers in bowl, stir lightly and refrigerate for half to 1 hour. (Optional: Add half a small onion, thinly sliced or diced). Remove from refrigerator, rinse in colander and drain. In a small bowl, combine the plain Greek yogurt or sour cream, cider vinegar, sugar and fresh dill or parsley. Mix well. Pour over drained cucumbers, mix and serve. Note: the salting helps to draw some of the moisture out of the cucumbers so that the salad is not so watery when served. AUGUST 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 47
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Call today to schedule a personal tour! 48 TampaBayParenting.com | AUGUST 2017
MOSI changes | Family Fun
HURRY TO
MOSI You have two weeks to catch these five exciting attactions!
Some exciting changes are around the corner at MOSI this month! It’s not a move to Downtown Tampa yet — while that’s in the works, it’s still five years or so away. What’s coming up in August is MOSI’s big remodel in its current home. Starting Aug. 14, MOSI will close for three months to start preparing for its eventual relocation and to become more financially sustainable. MOSI will re-open — right where it is now in North Tampa — on Nov. 18 with a lower ticket price, a more jam-packed experience full of hands-on science, and a major new exhibit on future technologies. But as MOSI remodels, some experiences will be coming to an end. Here are the top five things at MOSI to try with your family before they end on Aug. 14.
By Grayson Kamm
SEE AN IMAX® MOVIE Experience a giant, immersive movie in the Florida Hospital IMAX® DOME Theatre before the theatre at MOSI closes permanently on Aug. 14. One film is included with MOSI general admission. The August schedule, including the films Wild Africa and ROBOTS, is at mosi.org/imax.
BALANCE ON THE HIGH WIRE BIKE Test your nerves and the laws of physics! Put your feet on the pedals and put your trust in science as you strap into MOSI’s High Wire Bike and ride on a one-inch-thick wire three stories above MOSI’s lobby!
LET A BUTTERFLY LAND ON YOU Experience the magic of butterflies fluttering all around — and taking a rest on you inside MOSI’s BioWorks Butterfly Garden! Peek into the science of life as caterpillars become butterflies. MOSI plans to relocate the butterfly garden to a different site when the remodeling begins.
WATCH A PLANT EAT A BUG Yeah, it’s a little gross — but it’s also fascinating! In the Coleman-Lienhart Savage Garden, carnivorous plants like Venus flytraps, sundews, and more each have fascinating ways of making insects into meals!
Then come back to visit MOSI starting Nov. 18 to check out the new exhibit and returning favorites like The Saunders Planetarium, Sky Trail® Ropes Course and Zip Line, Mission: Moonbase NASA lunar colony, bed of nails, and more than 100 other experiences!
RIDE OUT A HURRICANE WITH YOUR WHOLE FAMILY Blast your buddies with 75-miles-an-hour winds! MOSI will feature a three-person hurricane simulator in its remodeled space, but until Aug. 14, you can pack your whole family into MOSI’s giant Gulf Coast Hurricane simulator. AUGUST 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 49
family fun | Puerto Rico
Escape to PUERTO RICO with kids By Anna Tataris De Jesus
There's a reason they call Puerto Rico "The Island of Enchantment." Everything from the natural beauty of the beaches, mountains and rainforest to the spirit of the people will leave you enchanted. We are lucky enough to travel to Puerto Rico at least once a year because my husband Roy grew up there and still has family living on the island. It's an island I love to visit and my kids love too. I mean what kid wouldn't love getting to visit a rainforest with waterfalls, fly a kite near Spanish Forts or play on beautiful beaches? And the best news for parents is traveling to Puerto Rico from Tampa is easy, with several direct flights that are less than three hours long.
When we are in Puerto Rico, our favorite area to stay with the kids is Condado. Condado has some fantastic hotels and some are located directly on the beach. The area also has several restaurants to choose from that range from local cuisine to pizza shops in case the kids are picky eaters. If you decide to spend all your time in Condado it will be an entertaining yet relaxing beach vacation. But the island has so much more to discover. Old San Juan is only about 10 minutes away by car or taxi and is designated by the National Parks Service as a National Historic Site. It's a beautiful old city that captures my heart every visit. Old San Juan has beautiful cobblestone streets
ANNA TATARIS DE JESUS is an Emmy nominated television journalist with a passion for traveling with her family. After 15 years on camera in television news, Anna gave up hard news for travel reporting. In 2012, she and husband Roy, a web anchor for Bay News 9, created “The Great Escape Plan.� Together they create videos for social media and their website TheGreatEscapePlan.com to inspire other families to travel. 50 TampaBayParenting.com | AUGUST 2017
lined with colorful painted homes and buildings with restaurants and shopping. It's also home to the beautiful Spanish Forts Castillo de San Cristobal which is actually the largest Spanish Fort built in the New World and San Felipe del Morro Fortress, known as "El Morro." These forts overlooking the sea are rich in history and beautiful to tour. "El Morro" has a gorgeous green lawn that is usually filled with children flying kites in the beautiful blue sky with the perfect winds coming from the sea. My children love doing this every visit. Don't worry about packing a kite, you can buy one there. And you can't visit Puerto Rico without a trip to El Yunque National Forest. There are really nice trails that are well marked in the rainforest. The trails will lead you to waterfalls and natural pools to swim in. Our kids really enjoy hiking the trails
where they get to see lots of different plants, lizards and cool bugs. It's definitely a learning experience for kids of all ages. My Mommy tip is make sure everyone wears shoes to hike, brings bathing suits and bug spray. Also, keep in mind it is a rainforest so you may get a little wet while hiking. El Yunque is truly a unique experience the kids will love. Be sure to listen for the tree frogs called "coquis" which makes sounds just like their name. You can also hear them throughout the island at night. If your family is the adventurous type, I also recommend ziplining in the rainforest. Kids usually have to be at least 6. You can find ziplining in El Yunque as well as other beautiful spots scattered across the island. Other unique adventures include horseback riding on nearby beaches or kayaking in bioluminescent bays. Puerto
Rico has three bioluminescent bays filled with tiny organisms that light up the water at night. Imagine the water glowing as fish swim by or each time your paddle hits the water. It's truly a magical experience. The bays are located in Vieques, Fajardo and in La Parguera in the town of Lajas which is on the western side of the island. Make sure to check the calendar to make sure the moon is just right to see it. I also suggest setting it up through a tour group to make sure you have a good experience. On a recent visit, we decided to do something new and adventurous. We took a small plane to visit the island of Vieques which is just off the coast of Puerto Rico. Vieques has some breathtaking beaches, some that are ranked the best in the world. This is a place to take the family if you really want to unplug because there isn't much to do other than relax on the beach. Most of the land in Vieques is undeveloped due to the 60-year presence of the U.S. Navy. Today the land is managed by The Fish and Wildlife administration, making Vieques the largest national refuge in the Caribbean. You'll find crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches. The island is also a place where horses are allowed to roam freely, which is a beautiful sight to experience. There are only two ways to get there. There is a ferry that
is usually used by locals while visitors tend to prefer charter planes. The island has several B&B accommodations, but I highly recommend the W Retreat and Spa which is a beautiful property with its own private beach. The staff was so friendly and helpful making sure we had a great stay. If you decide to do a bioluminescent bay tour while in Puerto Rico, the one in Vieques is known as the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world. This escape can be done with the kids in just three or four days, and because of the direct flights from Tampa, it's a place you can return to discover even more. I hope your family will leave the island of Puerto Rico feeling enchanted to go back!
AUGUST 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 51
What's Happening | Around town
Ronnie Oliver, Health and Wellness Coordinator of University Area Community Development Corporation, is this year’s recipient of the Pedestrian Advocate of the Year Award by Bike/Walk Tampa Bay.
Glazer Children's Museum 4th of July Kids set off rockets, combined Mentos and Diet Coke to create explosions, played in bubbles, met the Statue of Liberty, and more! We honored our military with free admission for veteran and active military families.
Our March guest editor
Heather Barrow of High Risk Hope brought her
Who is that on MOSI's High Wire Bike? It's ABC Action News' Sean Daly! MOSI will be remodeling from Aug. 14 to Nov. 17 and will reopen with a lower ticket price but without the High Wire Bike. So, if you want to take it for a ride one more time, head to MOSI by Aug. 13!
During their annual Great Mess-ploration event,
Great Explorations Children’s Museum hosted families for a day full of fun, messy art projects and science shows.
52 TampaBayParenting.com | AUGUST 2017
newly adopted pigs, Thunder and Bolt, to WFLA to share their journey on becoming therapy pigs in hospitals. The pigs are also a social media sensation. Follow their adventures on Instagram @thunderboltpigs
Around TOWN Tampa Bay Lightning’s Vice President of Corporate and Community Affairs, Dave Andreychuk, makes a special appearance at the Florida Hospital and Lightning’s “Beat the Heat” free public ice skating event held at Florida Hospital Center Ice.
Paula Scott with the Children's Board of Hillsborough County recently appeared on WFLA News Channel 8 to talk about the importance of safe sleep practices. Learn more by visiting preventneedlessdeaths.com.
Glazer Children's Museum Camp Imagination Holi Powder Throw (June 15). Campers learned about the cultural festival of Holi celebrated in India and Nepal.
Pets & Vets Week (June 30) We celebrated Pets & Vets week with special guests from zookeepers to authors, and even hatched chicken eggs and are caring for the chicks! To finish the week, kids marched in an adorable pet parade with stuffed animals in hand!
AUGUST 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 53
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What’s Happening | Top picks
AUGUST
Our favorite events and things to do for families in Tampa Bay! For even more family fun, visit TampaBayParenting.com to see our full calendar! SEE ONE LAST IMAX MOVIE AT MOSI Aug. 1-13, various times Experience a giant immersive movie inside MOSI’s Florida Hospital IMAX® DOME Theatre one last time before the museum closes the theatre permanently Aug. 13. One film is included with MOSI general admission. mosi.org Everyone
BACK TO SCHOOL HEALTH FAIR Aug. 5, various times
DINOS ALIVE! Open through August Head to the Jurassic and Cretaceous Eras at this unique exhibit at Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo. See life-size dinosaurs that move, roar and interact at this attraction scheduled to close this month. Price is included with Annual Zoo Membership, “Pay for a Day” ticket and single day admission. Some blackout dates apply. lowryparkzoo. com 6 & Older
CARDBOARD SPACE ADVENTURES Through Aug. 13, various times Stop by MOSI to explore the galaxy or jump into a cardboard spaceship at Tampa’s MOSI. Help create a huge cardboard outpost in outer space using hands-on creativity, engineering and art. mosi.org Everyone
ART OF THE BRICK TAMPA Through Sept. 4
including National Guard and Reserve and their families can take part in a free admission promotion Memorial Day through Labor Day at more than 2,000 U.S. museums including Tampa Bay History Center, Henry B. Plant Museum, Tampa Museum of Art and others. See participating museums at arts.gov/bluestarmuseums. Active Military
CHILDREN’S BOARD FREE TUESDAY AT GLAZER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Aug. 1, noon to 7 p.m. Take advantage of a free admission promotion at Glazer Children’s Museum. The event aligns with the Children’s Board’s mission to promote the well-being of children and families. Guests can join the museum with partners including WEDU PBS for free family fun monthly. glazermuseum.org Everyone
Check out what has been deemed the world’s largest display of LEGO art when the touring exhibit by Nathan Sawaya comes to Tampa Bay courtesy of the Vinik Family Foundation and available for viewing at 802 E. Whiting St. in downtown Tampa. The exhibit is accompanied by an interactive build space for guests of all ages. Free admission and parking. artofthebricktampa.com Everyone
BLUE STAR MUSEUMS COLLABORATION Through Sept. 4, various times Active duty military personnel
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Bring your children to one of three free health fairs offered through Hillsborough County Schools. Fairs take place 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Leto High School in Tampa; 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Blake High School in Tampa; and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 9455 Harney Road in Thonotosassa. Free physicals are available for kids in grades K-12 and free immunizations for Medicaid or uninsured children. A parent or legal guardian must accompany the child, and an immunization record is required to receive shots. Register online at back2schoolfair.org. 5-17
MOSI’S ALL-AMERICAN ECLIPSE FESTIVAL Aug. 5-6 and 12-13, various times Learn about a once-in-a-lifetime solar eclipse viewing opportunity to arrive Aug. 21 at this informative event at MOSI in Tampa. Get ready to safely watch the spectacle by building a pinhole projector. mosi.org Everyone
Relive cinematic classics at Tampa Theatre as its popular summer film series comes to a close. This month, guests can see “Reservoir Dogs” (Aug. 6), “The Wizard of Oz” (Aug. 12-13), a sing-along screening of “Grease” (Aug. 20), and “Casablanca” (Aug. 26-27). Tickets are $10 adults and $7 for Theatre Members. tampatheatre.org Everyone
QUACK TO SCHOOL! Aug. 12, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
10TH ANNUAL BACK TO SCHOOL FAIR Aug. 5, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Stop by this fun and informative Tampa Bay Parenting event at WestShore Plaza in Tampa and get the information you need to prepare your kids for another fun year of learning. First 500 kids to arrive will receive a free back to school book bag. Day includes live entertainment, hands-on activities, workshops, speakers and more. backtoschoolfair.com Everyone
SUMMER CLASSICS MOVIE SERIES AT TAMPA THEATRE Aug. 6, 12-13, 20 and 26-27, 3 p.m.
See ad on page 16
Watch thousands of rubber ducks race down the Hillsborough River as part of the Kiwanis Incredible Duck Race by Glazer Children’s Museum in Tampa. Adopt a duck for the race at the museum Visitor Services desk then drift into the museum for a duck-themed day of play. Ducks are available for advance purchase online at TampaDuckRace.com. Event admission is $5. glazermuseum.org Everyone
SPECIAL NEEDS EVENTS
guests from the community to share information, resources and fun activities. Each day at 10:30 a.m., kids take part in music and/ or movement activities with science or math activities to follow at 11:30 a.m. and art, literacy or sensory activities at 3:30 p.m. Music and Me, LLC also will offer a FREE Music Together class Aug. 15 and Aug. 21. greatex.org 1-5
Night in Al Lang Stadium in downtown St. Pete. General admission is $12. Tickets are available at rowdiessoccer.com/ hcps. Use promo code HCPS when ordering. Proceeds benefit basic needs of students in Hillsborough County Public Schools. Everyone
SATURDAYS AT THE MOREAN Aug. 19, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
See a showcase of the best lineup of Monster Jam vehicles at AMALIE Arena in Tampa. This Triple Threat Series™ race tests the versatility of the athletes as they go head to head in seven different competitions. Tickets start at $15. amaliearena.com Everyone
Bring the littlest Picassos in the family for free art activities at this family drop-in art studio hosted by The Morean Arts Center in St. Petersburg. Classes are held in the Children's Learning Center, and parents and/or guardians must remain with children. moreanartscenter.org 5-10
HCPS SPIRIT NIGHT AT THE TAMPA BAY ROWDIES Aug. 19, 7:30 p.m.
SOLAR ECLIPSE FUN Aug. 12, 2-3 p.m.
Cheer on Tampa Bay’s own Major League Soccer team the Tampa Bay Rowdies and support local schools at the same time when the Rowdies host a special Spirit
Meet astronomer Tanja Diederich for a talk about how to view the sun safely during an actual solar eclipse that day at this event hosted by Temple Terrace Public Library in Tampa. Florida will experience a partial solar eclipse while other parts will experience a total solar eclipse. Free solar glasses will be provided. For more information, call 813-506-6770. Everyone
TOTALLY TOTS AT GREAT EXPLORATIONS Aug. 14-18 and 21-25, various times Take the little ones to Great Explorations in St. Petersburg for two weeks of activities designed just for toddlers and preschoolers. The program includes special
MONSTER JAM Aug. 19, 1 p.m. & 7 p.m.
TODDLER TAKEOVER AT GLAZER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Aug. 20, 1-6 p.m. Bring the toddlers to Glazer Children’s Museum for two weeks of specialized programming designed just for them as part of the Museum’s partnership with Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County and Children’s Board of Hillsborough County. Little ones can take part in activities focused on yoga, music, gross motor skill development, social learning, Pre-K readiness and more. glazermuseum.org 1-3
PEACEFUL & POWERFUL PARENTING CLASS Aug. 24 and 31, 9-11 a.m.
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST PARTY Aug. 12, 1-4:30 p.m. Stop by Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library in Tampa and be their guest for a screening of the 2017 live action version of the film. Make themed crafts and take part in other activities along with the film, which is rated PG and runs 129 minutes. hcplc.org 6 & Older
WARRIORS FOR AUTISM – SENSORY WARRIORS PROGRAM Aug. 5, 12, 19 and 26, 11 a.m. - noon
GREAT ST. PETE CUPCAKE CONTEST – 100TH BIRTHDAY PARTY! Aug. 19, noon to 3 p.m. Indulge in the sweet return of a popular St. Petersburg tradition at Morean Center for Clay. Catch 100 bakers as they compete for the trophy marking the area’s greatest cupcake. This year’s contest includes a new Youth/Teen category for ages 10-16. moreanartscenter.org Everyone
Take part in a six-week program offered through Great Explorations and Suncoast Center designed to help parents with children of all ages build peaceful and powerful family relationships. Meet other parents and share ideas, better understand how children learn and develop, and discover and practice peaceful and powerful communication skills and discipline strategies. Pre-registration is required. To register, call Juliana Menke, LMHC, 727-327-7656 ext. 4160. Fee for complete course is $40 or free for Great Explorations members and TFS families. greatex.org Moms
Learn about adaptive martial arts training at Warrior Fitness & Sensory in Tampa with programming designed for children on the autism spectrum and their siblings in a safe and supportive learning environment. Classes include kickboxing, martial arts, flexibility, anti-bullying, speed and agility drills, discipline, self-defense and more. Cost is $15 per class. warriorsensory.com 5 & Older
SENSORY SENSITIVE SUNDAYS Aug. 6, 9-11 a.m. Spend a fun morning at Chuck E. Cheese’s in Wesley Chapel for a sensory-friendly environment that includes reduced lighting and noise, food and games for everyone and a trained staff. For more information, call 813-979-6200. Everyone
EMOJI MOVIE SENSORY SCREENING Aug. 8, 7 p.m. Check out a sensory-friendly screening of this new release at AMC Veterans 24 in Tampa. Screening is shown with reduced lights and lowered volume. amctheatres.com Everyone
GREAT CONNECTIONS Aug. 13, 10 a.m. to noon Wander through Great Explorations during special early access hours made available to children with special needs and their families. Guests can enjoy sensory-friendly activities and crafts the second Sunday of the month. The museum presents this event in partnership with Family Network on Disabilities. greatex.org 6 & Older
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Expert ER care for kids
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Florida Hospital and Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital have an exclusive affiliation that brings nationally ranked expertise and pediatric emergency care to each of our six emergency rooms. Additionally, we offer 24/7 access to on-site All Children’s Specialty Physicians at our Florida Hospital Tampa location.
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