July 2018

tampabayparenting.com

JULY 2018

FUN

GUIDE

HOLD THE FORT! ignite imagination & inspire play

BREAK INTO THE BIZ

kids who act and model: A LOCAL FAMILY'S STORY

BEDTIME BASICS

Expert tips to get back-to-school ready page 49

COVER STORY

Roaring Springs now at ZooTampa

JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 1

Insist On The Right Size Care.

Pediatric Fellowship trained, each of our physicians understands the unique needs and challenges of kids. We specialize in care for

Thomas M. Andrews, MD

children with conditions affecting the ears, nose & throat, as well as

Wade R. Cressman, MD

disorders involving airway, head & neck. When your child requires

Rose S. Trowbridge, MD

expert ENT care, call Pediatric Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists.

Insist on the right size care.

Kathleen M. Wasylik, MD

727-329-5400 ■ www.pediatric-ent.com Brandon ■ Clearwater ■ Odessa ■ Sarasota ■ St. Petersburg ■ Tampa 2 TampaBayParenting.com | JULY 2018

Monsters Don’t Have to Be Scary.

Neither Do Hospitals.

Monsters Don’t Have to Be Scary.

The hospital can be a scary place for anyone, especially children.

At St. Joseph’sDo Children’s Hospital, we do our best to comfort parents Neither Hospitals. and children, and ease their fears. Our nursing teams, physicians and specialists that for ouranyone, patientsespecially receive exceptional The hospital can be a ensure scary place children. care in surroundings designed justwe fordokids.

At St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, our best to comfort parents and children, and ease their fears. Our nursing teams, physicians and specialists ensure that our patients receive exceptional care in surroundings designed just for kids.

18-363205.indd 1

Visit StJoesKids.org to learn more about us and our friends, the UnMonsters.

Visit StJoesKids.org to learn more about us and our friends, the UnMonsters.

18-363205-0318

JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 3 18-363205-0318

3/23/18 8:2

Contents / July 2018

SECTIONS 10 12

15 16 18 23 25 27 28

30 33

42 45 47 49 51

52

56 60 63

LIFE + HOME

Break Into the Biz Kids who act and model Teaching Empathy Volunteer as a family in Tampa Bay

EDUCATION

Go Outside 3 Reasons why the outdoors is good for your kids VPK Focus The 411 on VPK Libraries Local libraries can help with back to school prep Life Lessons Local schools going above and beyond academics Guest Editor The benefits of building play forts Back to School Organization Set up your kid’s room for success Guest Editor Finding summertime balance to learn while having fun

FOOD + DRINK

Date Night Guide Maple Biscuit Company

BEAUTY + STYLE

28

Runway Translator Nails, lashes and destinations

HEALTH + WELLNESS

Florida Hospital Care close to home Screen Sense How much screen-time is too much Healthy Body Image Being a positive role model Bedtime Basics Expert tips on getting into back-to-school routine Summer Fitness Easy ways to stay fit as a family

FAMILY FUN

Cover Story Roaring Springs debuts at ZooTampa at Lowry Park

WHAT'S HAPPENING

July Fourth Events in Tampa Bay Top Picks Our favorite events in July Around Town Spotlight on Tampa Bay

10 FEATURES

21

AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES IN TAMPA BAY

36

SUMMER FUN GUIDE

23

ON THE COVER Mason Collins, 5, at Zoo Tampa's newest ride, Roaring Springs.

Academics, arts, clubs, sports and organizations

Attractions, activities and all-day adventures!

4 TampaBayParenting.com | JULY 2018

52

Cover images by Darlene Barlows Photography

11 th ANNUAL BACK TO SCHOOL FAIR is back!

• FREE EVENT • Sales-Tax Holiday Weekend!

• First 500 receive a Free Backpack!

SAVE THE DATE! Saturday, August 4, 2018 - 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Westshore Plaza, 250 Westshore Plaza, Tampa, FL 33609

JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 5

Guest editor note

GUEST EDITOR Kate White

CREATIVE DIRECTOR AND EDITORIAL MANAGER Laura Byrne

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Anu Varma Panchal

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

COMIN' IN HOT

KEEP YOUR KIDS CURIOUS ALL SUMMER

Sarah Stoulil

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kate White Anu Varma Panchal Tara Payor, Ph.D. Michelle Bremer Amy Hammond Courtney Cairns-Pastor Dr. Steve Knobl Jennifer Hodges, Ph.D. Ashley Glass Joe Humphrey Barbara Culkin Nicole Decker Florida Hospital American Heart Association-Tampa Bay

CALENDAR

Sarah Stoulil Joan O'Neill

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Ralf Gonzalez Craig Collins

LAYOUT & DESIGN

Nicole Barolo of Page Four Creative

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Darlene Barlows Photography Theresa NeSmith Photography

INTERN

Joan O'Neill Jiayi Huang

Summer is a time of imagination and discovery as kids take a break from the structure of the classroom. However, as summer presses on, it can become more challenging to keep children engaged and learning at home.

At the Glazer Children’s Museum, we have intentionally curated our summer programs to help prevent the 1-2 months of learning loss known as the summer slide. In our giant Book Nook, families can read together in a cozy fort of their own making. At Camp Imagination, little learners create masterpieces, put on performances, tinker with gadgets, learn to care for animals, and more. From building a Velociraptor in Dino Zone to working with robotics in Gadget Garage, kids will stay curious and stretch their brains at the Glazer Children’s Museum all summer.

In addition to museums and camps, parents can support summer learning at home. Research shows that due to the summer slide, the first six weeks of a new school year are often spent relearning old

material. However, tools like your local library and myON.com, an online library where students have access to digital books, all support summer reading which helps prevent the summer slide. Try connecting reading to fun experiences like a neighborhood book club or family reading contest to keep them interested.

Whether you are home with your kids all summer, only on the weekends or another combination, it can be intimidating, (and exhausting) to come up with imaginative ways to keep them engaged while school is out. In this issue of Tampa Bay Parenting, we’ve got you covered with creative ideas to continue the learning all summer!

KATE WHITE

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AT THE GLAZER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

BOOKKEEPING

Employee of the Month, LLC

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

BECOME A FAN AT:

tampabayparentingmagazine @tampabayparenting @TBParenting

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 | JULY 2018

MORE FROM

GLAZER CHILDREN'S MUSEUM ON PAGES 25 AND 28

White's daughters, Audrey, 3, and Ellie, 1, think mom's work is all play when they visit the Glazer Children's Museum with their dad, White's husband, Ben.

@STRAZ CENTER

PATEL CONSERVATORY

SUMMER 2018 CAMPS & CLASSES

Now enrolling summer camps and classes for all ages and skill levels.

Scholarships available

DANCE • THEATER • MUSIC patelconservatory.org • 813.222.1040 JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 7

meet our contributors

BARBARA CULKIN

ANU VARMA PANCHAL Anu Varma Panchal has written and edited for area publications for nearly 20 years. She’s ac­t ive on her children’s PTA boards, loves theatre, concerts, the local brewery scene and travel, and spends way too much time schlepping her 10 and 13-year-olds around in her minivan. She never leaves home without her library card. You can find her at youreditingsolutions.com.

Barbara Culkin of the blog Styling With Intention is a mompreneur, fashion and interior stylist and lifestyle designer who helps you decorate, dress and live with intention. She is also an award-winning artist, certified Feng Shui consultant, speaker, published author and freelance writer. stylingwithintention.com

Ashley Glass is a University of Florida graduate and journalist of almost 15 years, most of that time spent telling news stories right here in the Tampa Bay area. She's right now tackling her most important job yet, being a mom to two kids under 2 years of age and she's loving every second of the beautiful mess!

MICHELLE BREMER 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

ASHLEY GLASS COURTNEY CAIRNS PASTOR

Dr. Steve Knobl is the father of two amazing sons, and the husband to an incredible wife, Laura.

Early childhood education has been a priority for in his family for generations.

He serves as the CEO of the Early Learning Coalition of Pasco County.

Courtney Cairns Pastor is the communications coordinator for Corbett Prep, a PreK3-8th grade school in North Tampa. Previously she covered parenting, features and education for The Tampa Tribune.

DR. STEVE KNOBL

TARA PAYOR, PH.D. Tara Payor, Ph.D. has a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction. She is a contributing faculty member for Walden University, where she guides doctoral students through their dissertations. She is also a language arts educator.

Reach her at tpayor@gmail. com.

Photo by Essentia Photography

DARLENE BARLOWS Darlene Barlows is a fine arts graduate from Florida State University, a native of Tampa and a fifth-generation Floridian. She lives in South Tampa with her husband Ted and son Reesing. She loves to travel and find adventures in life whether big or small. Authenticity is a gift she loves to share with the world. She is the owner of Darlene Barlows Photography. darlenebarlowsphotography.com

AMY HAMMOND Amy Hammond is a St. Petersburg-based author who believes all children should set their sights on college greatness. She is the author of “When I Grow Up, I’ll Be a Gator,” “When I Grow Up, I’ll Be a ‘Nole,” “When I Grow Up, I’ll Be a Bull,” “When I Grow Up, I’m Bama Bound” and “When I Grow Up, I’ll be a Tiger.”

8 TampaBayParenting.com | JULY 2018

Are you a local blogger or writer? If you have a content idea or a story to tell, email us.

Story idea?

editor@tampabayparenting.com

JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 9

LIFE + HOME | BREAK INTO THE BIZ Lucy Hammond at her first of two shoots for Fisher-Price.

A case for the camera RAISING KIDS WHO ACT AND MODEL

By Amy Hammond

Fletcher Hammond, 9, and the cast of "Mother’s Presence," which is currently being submitted to film festivals.

I see you with your cute kids. That boy has Zoolander’s “Blue Steel” look down – and he’s only 4. Your 10-year-old ‘pops and locks’ every time someone yells CHEESE – including if you’re in the Publix dairy section. Even the baby has dimples in just the right places.

Should your kids model and/or act? Maybe. Our son appeared in his first print campaign for Bealls when he was 3, so we’ve been at this six years and counting. Both he and my daughter audition regularly and love when they ‘win’ a booking.

I am by no means an expert Momager. My kids are not Disney stars (fingers still crossed). But I continue to learn lessons along the way. I hope the following insights help you decide whether pursuing acting and/or modeling is right for your kids.

10 TampaBayParenting.com | JULY 2018

have meltdowns or do not pay attention will be miserable – and you will be, too.

• Acting and modeling jobs are paid jobs – not an opportunity to bring your child “out of their shell.”

• Be prepared to drive. My kids often direct-book based on pictures and video clips, meaning we don’t spend much time traveling to auditions.

Still, we get around. Dream of your child being in a commercial with a certain famous mouse? You’re going to have to drive to Orlando for castings. And callbacks.

And the actual shoot. As a freelance writer, I have the flexibility to get up and go if the casting is worth our time.

• Never assume your child is it. My kids know they won’t get every part. And that means booking that great role is truly amazing when it does happen.

As a mom, watching my kids shine on-set is such a gift.

It’s what we all want for our children: the confidence to succeed at something they love. If that ‘something’ is acting and modeling, I hope you enjoy it as much as we do!

Infomercial shoot time at the Bill Mays Memorial Studio at Bluewater Media

AGENT INFO

Seven Model and Talent, Inc. 813-374-8925 Benz Model and Talent Agency 813-242-4400

istock.com/kate_sun

• Usually, very young children and babies do not need professional head shots. Find an agent who can advise you (I’ve shared a few below). Anyone who wants a fee to represent you is not on the up-and-up. I've shared a few agents' names here.

• Treat acting and modeling like a sport that requires the right equipment. That means regularly updated pictures and training.

• Does your child have enough frenetic energy to run a nuclear power plant? Shoots often last for hours. Kids who

Lucy Hammond and friend Fin Salkowicz clowning around with television fitness personality Jillian Michaels after a shoot

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Call 727-308-5266 or visit www.MastryLawParentsGuide.com JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 11

TEACH EMPATHY TO KIDS

at your

service

MAKING TIME TO RAISE KIDS WITH MINDS AND HEARTS TO SERVE OTHERS

By Tara Payor, Ph.D.

Now in high school and college, the Kwan girls (shown here working on a home during Paint Your Heart Out Tampa) started their volunteerism young.

says Kwan. Kari Adams, who’s long engaged in community service, is ensuring her 3-year-old grows with a mindset and heart for service.

“It’s important to choose organizations kids can connect with based on age and experiences,” says Adams. “High Risk Hope is that organization for us. They supported us when I was on hospital bed rest and our son in the NICU. We talk about preemie babies with him and he recently pointed out the fact that he was in a ‘hospital box’ when born.” The family has also volunteered for Jersey Mike's Day of Giving, and Adams’ 3-year-old is a knee-tapping pro for getting people's attention and giving them a sticker. It’s difficult to gauge how much community service is impacting him, but Adams is confident that her son shows concern for others.

SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Lisa Reeves (far right) and son Kaden (middle) at Feeding Tampa Bay along with family.

R

ecently, a speaker to whom I was listening posed a poignant question: If I don’t make the time now, to do things with my children geared toward developing socially responsible people why expect them to make time for those things when they’re on their own? If I constantly put parties and recreation before community service, can I expect them to be civic-minded adults? Children benefit from engaging in community service, and parents must lead by example.

TIME

Kids’ and parents’ schedules are full. What am I teaching my children if I brush community service aside because I’m busy? Teaching how to create time for service is better. Grocery shopping takes time, but kids can choose foods for a food bank while shopping.

A stop while driving home ensures people in need receive donations. Instead of tuning each other out with music, talk about why donations are important.

12 TampaBayParenting.com | JULY 2018

Kari Adams and her son participate in Jersey Mike's Day of Giving for High Risk Hope.

Cris Kwan, mom of two, started volunteering because she noticed needs. “The experiences are rewarding. It feels good to help,” Kwan says. Having volunteered at soup kitchens and hospitals, she eventually became involved with her daughters’ schools—working with PTAs and assisting teachers.

Kwan’s daughters saw her in action and enjoyed the benefits of her help. “Organizations like Metropolitan Ministries and the Humane Society have online scheduling, allowing volunteers to align their schedules with the organization’s needs. There’s flexibility, and you can make things work,” Kwan explains.

START YOUNG

Children as young as 3 years old can participate in community service. Kwan’s daughters, now in high school and college, started young. “They were impacted by how grateful people were for the help, food, and supplies that we often take for granted,”

Mom-of-three Lisa Reeves is active with the Junior League and Rotary Club. Her 5 and 10-year-old sons have attended many service projects and she enjoys taking them to interactive ones. “We love Metropolitan Ministries’ Faith Café because we serve attendees lunch and talk with them,” Reeves says. She believes the interactions help kids understand that we’re all the same, despite varying backgrounds. “It’s key to encourage talk,” Reeves says. “We explain what events are about, who we’re helping, and why we’re doing it. I know they’re growing socially and emotionally because they now ask to help.

When teachers note our sons’ empathy and selfless actions, we know they’ve learned to stop and think about others.” They’ve done clean ups, fundraising walks, and food-sorting events. Also good for their development is the team effort displayed by their parents. “My husband understands my drive and supports me,” Reeves says. “Both of us have to be involved at some capacity.”

DOING GOOD IS GOOD FOR ALL

From developing organizational and public speaking skills to empathy and emotional intelligence, kids and parents benefit from community service. From community service, kids learn about the power of personal contributions. Rather than viewing community service as something we do instead of attending parties, we can teach kids to view community service as simultaneously impactful and fun.

Consider these tips: • Kids can donate allowance to a charitable cause.

• Check out weekend guides for nonprofit organizations’ events.

• Utilize social media and the city’s parks department website to find events.

JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 13

Call today to schedule a personal tour!

Call today to schedule a personal tour!

14 TampaBayParenting.com | JULY 2018

GO OUTSIDE | EDUCATION

SPONSORED

Connecting to the natural world is part of our humanity, Louv says.

Going outside also benefits the body, even if your activity level remains the same. Scientists think exposure to natural light could help your eyes.

Studies in “Optometry and Vision Science” reported that kids who regularly spent time outside were less likely to develop nearsightedness.

3

take it outside THREE REASONS YOU NEED MORE NATURE

By Courtney Cairns Pastor, Corbett Prepatory

D

ays filled with riding bikes, splashing in the pool, playing at the park or grilling dinner on the deck – the late sunsets and relaxed schedule of summer make it easy for families to spend time outside.

And that time in nature, whether it’s on a beach or in your own backyard, boosts your brain. You feel better, behave better, focus better and perform better at work or school, studies say. Time outdoors lowers stress, promotes physical activity and inspires creativity.

But when vacations end and life’s demands heat up, setting aside time for nature can fall by the wayside. Here’s why it’s important to keep the outdoors in your life and how to make fresh air a year-round priority.

NATURE CLEARS YOUR HEAD It may seem counterintuitive to step away when you most need to accomplish something. But taking breaks helps children and adults regain focus and return to their work refreshed and more productive, best-selling author Daniel Pink writes in his latest book, “When: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing.” The most helpful break? One spent in nature, Pink writes.

1

A short walk outside improves your mood and prepares you mentally to move on to the next task. For adults, a quick break in the afternoon can help you power through the rest of your day’s duties. At school, students benefit from time outside as well. In addition to daily free play outside, Corbett Prep students enjoy short stretches outdoors as they walk to arts, physical education and other specials classes. The brief walks under cypress trees and past a burbling fountain help the students arrive to their next class ready to learn.

2

NATURE BALANCES SCREEN TIME

Children are spending less time outside and more time in front of screens than ever before. Reports from Common Sense Media showed that tweens logged about 4.5 hours of screen time daily, and children 8 and younger spent 2 hours and 19 minutes on screen media a day.

There’s an easy fix if you start to feel like virtual life is taking over real life: Log off and head out. Author Richard Louv says kids need “Vitamin N.” His book by the same name guides families with activities and tips to make nature a bigger part of their lives. “The more high tech our lives become, the more nature we need,” he writes on his blog.

NATURE IS A TEACHER

Think of all the amazing discoveries you and your child can make when you open the door.

Teachers at Corbett Prep regularly use the campus as an extension of the learning environment. Middle school students monitor the health of the lake in science class, and younger children collect water samples to see the creatures that live there. The middle school’s aquaponics class raises fish to fertilize the plants they grow, while students studying Computational and Design Thinking build structures outside to improve the campus. After school, the garden club plants and weeds the school garden, raising herbs that Corbett Prep’s chef incorporates into school lunches.

A home garden provides valuable lessons for kids in where food comes from, the importance of caring for the environment and healthy eating habits.

Or try monitoring the summer rains with a simple rain gauge, making bird feeders, mixing a solution for giant bubbles or roasting marshmallows in a homemade solar oven.

The easiest lesson? Invite friends over to play outside. Unstructured, childdriven play sparks the imagination and playing with others develops conflict resolution and social skills.

On the days when it’s too hard to head out or the weather has different ideas, try a window instead. Students working in Corbett Prep’s library look up from their books to gaze out of floor-to-ceiling windows with a view of the lake. Third and fourth-grade classrooms overlook a small pond, where students have spotted herons and otters along with the peacocks that frequent the campus. Rather than distracting students, the view outside recharges drained batteries. Several studies have found that seeing greenery from school buildings can increase test scores, graduation rates and the likelihood students will attend college, according to the nonprofit Children & Nature Network.

Summer only lasts a few months, but nature is always there. Adding a walk around the block or an afternoon outside to your regular routine boosts your brain, body and spirit.

JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 15

EDUCATION | VPK FOCUS

SPONSORED

411 on VPK

V

HOW QUALITY VPK SETS THE STAGE FOR LIFE

By Dr. Steve Knobl, Pasco County Early Learning Coalition

LEARN MORE

PK is Florida’s free Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten Education Program (VPK) for all 4-year-olds. The Early Learning Coalition of Pasco and Hernando Counties, Inc. assists families with their VPK program enrollment. The program has two basic options for consideration: Your child can attend an early learning program for half days through the school year, or do longer days during the summer.

The first five years of your child’s life is a time of rapid development. More than 90 percent of the brain develops by the age of 5. Bill Gates once said, “The first five years have so much to do with how the next 80 turn out.”

The VPK experience sets the stage for your child’s education. Typically, children that have these valuable educational experiences and opportunities are more inclined to be successful in kindergarten and beyond. According to The Annie E. Casey Foundation who report, “Early Warning: A Research Update on Third Grade Reading,” one of the main factors that contribute to third grade reading proficiency is school readinesspreschool attendance. It’s during VPK that children start understanding the basics of literacy. The report states that students not reading on grade level by third grade are four times more likely to drop out before high school graduation.

Early childhood educators incorporate play into their lesson plans to make them developmentally appropriate, fun and interactive for children. According to the 2017 Florida Early Learning and Developmental Standards, kids ages 4 through kindergarten should develop in the following eight domains during the VPK program: physical development, various learning approaches, social and emotional development, language and literacy, mathematical thinking, scientific inquiry, social studies, and creative expression through the arts. When children complete the VPK program, it becomes an educational milestone that sets the stage for them to experience more success during the rest of their educational journey.

The Florida Early Learning and Developmental Standards for 4-year-olds to Kindergarten (2017) flbt5.floridaearlylearning.com/docs/OEL-VPK154yo.pdf What do children learn in a high-quality preschool program? naeyc.org/our-work/families/what-do-children-learn-preschool-program Annie E. Casey Foundation Report aecf.org/resources/early-warning-confirmed/

16 TampaBayParenting.com | JULY 2018

Image provided by Early Learning Coalition of Pasco County

the

JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 17

EDUCATION | LIBRARIES

But the library is more than just books. Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library is dedicated to ensuring that students in our county have FREE access to all the technology and information that is needed to make them successful learners throughout the school year. We offer a variety of resources to help your children thrive in school. With our HAAL Pass program, Hillsborough County Public School students can use their student ID number (also called their lunch number) to access databases and research tools, read eBooks, and borrow up to three items from any public library in Hillsborough County.

The Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library offers an assortment of online homework databases that can be accessed from home or from the library. Tutor.com offers ummer vacation is drawing to a close, and many FREE, live, one-on-one tutoring in math, science, social children and adults are beginning to anticipate the studies, SAT Prep, essay writing, English and more! World start of a new school year. Amidst all your planning Book provides access to their digital encyclopedia, dictionary, – supplies, registration materials, new clothes, arranging the atlas, homework help, study aids and curriculum guides. For logistics of the commute – don’t forget to make good use of ALL elementary students, Kids InfoBits by National Geographic the resources offered through the Tampa-Hillsborough County offers a broad range of educational topics, making it easy Public Library. for young users to explore and gain comfort with database Maybe you’re wondering how the library can help you. Aside searching. from the material objects, your children may also need some One of my favorite resources is the Learning Express Library help preparing emotionally to succeed. Many kids, especially which offers practice tests, tutorial courses and eBooks to incoming kindergarteners or children and teenagers attending a help students succeed. The Mathematics Skills Improvement new school for the first time, are nervous about starting school, and English Language Skills Improvement categories are and your Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library can help organized based on the Common Core State Standards them find some books to help them prepare for what’s ahead.

(CCSS). Students will find practice sets and tutorials aligned We’ve put together some recommended reading on this subject, to the CCSS from fourth grade through high school. Every so take your child to the public library, and together, look for math and English language arts (ELA) tutorial is aligned to some stories to ease this transition. See the blue box. grade-specific CCSS, so even if you don’t quite understand the painstaking teaching practices behind Common Core Math, we’ve got you covered.

Elementary: http://bit.ly/SchoolAnxietyElementary From kindergarten to high school, the library is Middle School: http://bit.ly/SchoolAnxietyMiddleGrades your one-stop educational spot! Visit your library High School: http://bit.ly/SchoolAnxietyYA or our website at HCPLC.org to discover all the available resources to you and your family.

back to school DON'T FORGET THE LIBRARY

By Jennifer Hodges, Ph.D., MS, MLIS

Find your favorite books for all your backto-school reading at your local library.

Kids like Bryce Harvey (below) can use their HAAL pass to check out books.

S

18 TampaBayParenting.com | JULY 2018

SyourPARK curiosity IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT HOMEWORK AND WORKSHEETS. But a school with hands-on, active learning that unleashes your child’s imagination and unlocks intellectual potential?

That’s another story.

It’s what we’ve been doing for 25 years.

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   Scouting is a way to connect and have fun as a FAMILY. Nowadays we are busier than ever!

Scouting provides a program that welcomes the WHOLE family- mom, dad, brothers AND SISTERS. Character development and values-based leadership are taught to prepare kids for SUCCESS.

It’s not too late to Join in the FUN! Register at MJPAA.com/summer

Join Us For Camps, Classes, Workshops and More!

INTRODUCING at Mary Jo’s Performing Arts Academy

ADVENTURE IS WAITING. BUILD YOURS AT BEASCOUT.ORG. www.tampabayscouting.org

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special advertising section

Boy Scouts of America, Greater Tampa Bay Area Council 13228 N. Central Avenue Tampa, FL 33612 813-872-2691; tampabayscouting.org The Greater Tampa Bay Area Council serves girls and boys ages 6-20.

Scouting is a way to connect and have fun as a family! Scouting provides a program that welcomes the whole family- mom, dad, brothers and sisters. Character development and values-based leadership are taught to prepare kids for success. We offer a wide array of summer programs from summer camps to activities with professional sports teams.

academics, arts, clubs, sports and organizations

Brandon All Stars 102 S. Falkenburg Rd., Tampa, 33619 813-571-7744; brandonallstars.com Brandon All-stars is a cheerleading and tumbling center that offers tumbling classes and cheerleading teams for children ages 2-18 years old. There is no experience necessary to be a part of Brandon All-stars, we offer beginner level to elite level classes, so there is a class or team for everyone!

Bullseye Learning 710 E. Bloomingdale Ave., Brandon, 33511 813-413-4998; bullseyelearning.com Bullseye Learning offers tutoring and enrichment programs for students of all ages in all subjects. Get your students ready for next year and keep their minds sharp throughout the school year. We can meet in home, at a library or another convenient location for you. Also, there are still spaces available at our Camp Exploration & Adventure at Bloomingdale Presbyterian Church, 710 East Bloomingdale Ave.,Brandon. Come and join the fun!

Color Me Mine 1609 W. Snow Circle, Tampa, FL 33606 813-258-8368; tampa.colormemine.com Color me Mine offers many camps and activities throughout the summer.

Each week will include ceramic painting techniques and projects, and a variety of craft projects which may include wood and paper crafts, decoupage, paper-mache, acrylic paints, stamping, fabric dyes and beading.

JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 21

special advertising section

academics, arts, clubs, sports and organizations

Mary Jo’s Performing Arts Academy 15906 Mapledale Blvd., Tampa, FL 33624 813-969-0240; MJPAA.com/summer At Mary Jo’s Performing Arts Academy, your child will explore the wonderful world of the performing arts while encountering an educational, fun-filled experience. Students will be introduced to various paths of the arts and given opportunities to act, sing, dance and be creative. They will develop friendships and a lifetime appreciation of the arts. Our goal is to provide a safe and stimulating environment promoting the emotional, social, physical and cognitive growth of your child.

Mathnasium Multiple locations in Tampa Bay 877-601-MATH; mathnasium.com Mathnasium is your neighborhood math-only learning center that teaches kids math the way that makes sense to them. Our experienced math tutors utilize our proprietary teaching materials and techniques,The Mathnasium Method™, to deliver a customized learning plan designed to address each student's needs, whether they started out far behind or are already ahead in math. Our instruction approach goes beyond traditional math tutoring to develop understanding and build a love for math.

FULL DAY

9:00AM-4:00PM $150/WEEK Ages 6-13

HALF DAY

9:00AM-12:00PM $75/WEEK Ages 4/5

Our Summer camp is a great place to start. Athletes will have the chance to hang out with our amazing BA Staff in a fun, positive, energetic and safe environment. This camp is designed to focus on fun, but will allow kids to work on stretching, strength and conditioning, jumps, tumbling, stunting, dance and much more!

Week 1: June 4th - 8th • Week 2: June 25th -29th Week 3: July 23rd -27th • Week 4: July 30th -Aug 3rd

Enroll Online Today!!

Extended Care Hours Available

www.brandonallstars.com

Brandon North Tampa • 12811 North Nebraska Ave., Suite C Tampa, FL 33612 22 TampaBayParenting.com | JULY 2018

LIFE LESSONS | EDUCATION Students in the Davidsen Middle School culinary program prepare fresh pasta in culinary class. In addition to culinary, students at the Westchase school’s Center for the Arts can study programs including dance, music, Spanish and more.

Life lessons SCHOOL DOESN’T ALWAYS FEEL LIKE “SCHOOL,” AND THAT’S A GOOD THING.

At Martinez Middle School, sixth grade agriculture student Jacob Schein leads a tour of the grounds. One of his duties is to care for the ducks.

By Joe Humphrey, Hillsborough County Schools

E

ducation is changing in Hillsborough County. Yes, students are still learning the basics; in fact, recent math and reading tests ranked our public schools at the top of 27 large school districts in the U.S. But our children are being exposed to much more than those lessons and in new ways.

The work is guided by the vision for Hillsborough County Public Schools: Preparing Students for Life.

Preparing Students for Life means teaching kindergarten students in both English and Spanish at special Dual Language academies, reinforced with a scavenger hunt field trip to a Fresco y Mas grocery store. Dual Language, now at Bellamy and Crestwood elementary schools, expands to Reddick and Westchase next year.

Preparing Students for Life means pairing third-graders at Woodbridge Elementary with volunteers from one of the region’s top companies, Tech, so students at the Town ‘n’ Country school can take apart and reassemble computers. Next year, students in grades 3-5 can work closely with mentors from highwage, high-demand technology careers.

It means watching Sgt. Smith Middle School medical academy students take each other’s pulse during a lab while broadcast academy students put finishing touches on the latest morning show down the hall.

This isn’t only about school skills — Preparing Students for Life is about bringing out the best in our children’s leadership skills and character.

Preparing Students for Life means students make the decisions at the Martinez Middle School agriculture program in Lutz. “They take leadership and ownership for their actions,” says teacher Elizabeth Hessel. “They take on challenges and get the other kids inspired and motivated.

They learn real world skills, communication, time management, budgeting… It empowers them.”

Third-grade students at It means encouraging Woodbridge Elementary Lee Elementary students School learn how to contribute their ideas to disassemble and at a workshop to discuss reconstruct PCs as part of a future plans for the Tampa new partnership with Tech Heights school. At Davidsen Data. Woodbridge is part of Middle School, Preparing a STEM hub in the Town ‘n’ Students for Life means Country area.

Chef Kimberly Toner teaches students to make pasta from scratch instead of from a box.

At Randall Middle School in FishHawk, it means eighth-

grader Camden Grant raising money to donate 150 pairs of shoes to students at Booker T. Washington Elementary through a project she created called Soles Shaping Souls. It means seeing grateful looks in the eyes of Twin Lakes Elementary students as they flip through more than 3,000 books donated by Westchase Elementary School students.

Preparing Students for Life isn’t just a slogan. From New Tampa to South Tampa, and Westchase to Lithia, it’s shaping new ways to learn.

And it’s even happening in Houston, Texas.

Through Hillsborough Virtual School, all students can enroll in accelerated classes or even complete a full school year. Because of that, one new Hillsborough Virtual School graduate was able to excel at academics while also balancing a budding career with the Houston Ballet.

Interested in School Choice?

Hillsborough Schools are tuitionfree, including magnet schools and choice options. An additional School Choice selection window will be offered July 12-19. Details are at sdhc.k12.fl.us.

JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 23

We’re raising the

Imagination Generation!

Open 7 Days a Week Downtown Tampa GlazerMuseum.org

Build Forts!

Climb Clouds!

Cook Up Fun!

Explore Oceans!

24 TampaBayParenting.com | JULY 2018

GUEST EDITOR | Education

play — playing near each other - and move on to collaborative play as they gain confidence.

It’s fascinating to watch my girls teach each other. Ellie, the youngest, models Audrey’s behavior and feels emboldened to try new things when she sees her big sister do them.

Audrey guides her little sister to use “proper” building techniques. Little sis is mastering her motor skills while learning how to build, and big sis is developing patience, empathy and collaboration skills while learning how to articulate her thoughts and ideas.

Fort-building is a platform for exploration, construction and creative planning. With no parameters to guide them, kids must experiment with the best techniques and anticipate what supplies they need. They have to figure out for themselves where creative ideas meet structural integrity. Kids gain confidence through experimentation, problem-solving— and yes, failure — as they define their own success.

FORT-BUILDING IGNITES IMAGINATION AND INSPIRES DRAMATIC PLAY. IN A CHILD’S MIND, A FORT CAN BECOME ANYTHING FROM A MILITARY FORTRESS, TO A ROCKET, TO A SAILBOAT.

hold the I A CASE FOR BUILDING FORTS

By Kate White, Director of Marketing Glazer Children's Museum

remember building forts with my brother and sister as a kid. We’d spend hours picking the right materials from around the house, establishing “characters” with elaborate backstories, and perfecting our building techniques. I doubt my mom appreciated the messes we made, but she valued the time we spent together as siblings. Now as a mother myself, I too enjoy listening to my daughters as they build forts. Hearing their sweet conversations and squeals of laughter fills me with joy and nostalgia. Intuitively, I always had a feeling that real substantive learning was happening as the pillows and blankets piled up.

Last summer at the Glazer Children’s Museum, we opened a new exhibit called “Forts.” With the furniture bolted down, hooks on the structures, and loops on all the textiles, children can build and create in a safe and fun environment.

Observing my own kids at home and watching Museum guests play and interact in this exhibit has confirmed my theory that fort-building leads to real learning and development.

My girls are 1 and 3, so they each play and learn differently. Toddlers start with parallel

Playing in the Forts exhibit at the Museum builds empathy, understanding and inclusion as kids from different backgrounds, genders, races and abilities play together. Fortbuilding invites collaboration, negotiation and compromise. Teaching kids to consider perspectives outside their own is crucial for their social and emotional wellness.

Fort-building ignites imagination and inspires dramatic play. In a child’s mind, a fort can become anything from a military fortress, to a rocket, to a sailboat. Kids create narratives as they play, keeping them engaged longer and helping them retain information.

Imaginative play is one of the most beneficial learning tools for any child, leading to a lifetime of innovation and creativity.

This summer, while your kids are stuck inside on those rainy afternoons, combat boredom by encouraging them to build a fort.

Enjoy listening to the giggles and imaginative stories, knowing it’s the sound of learning and creativity at work!

JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 25

RO

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SUMMERTIME CHECK LIST LEARN ABOUT SCIENCE STAY COOL IN THE AIR CONDITIONING

STOP IN TO MOSI TODAY TO COMPLETE YOUR CHECKLIST! SA M E ADDRESS . NEW M OS I .

4 8260TampaBayParenting.com 1 EAST FO W2018 L E R AV E • TA M P A • 8 1 3 - 9 8 7 - 6 0 0 0 • M O S I . O R G | JULY

BACK-TO-SCHOOL ORGANIZATION | Education

chaos to calm

SET UP YOUR CHILD'S ROOM FOR BACK-TO-SCHOOL SUCCESS

By Barbara Culkin

Can you believe back-to-school time is just around the corner? We all know what that means—supplies shopping! But instead of simply stocking your child’s backpack, consider how you can shop for their room in order to decorate with intention. Styling your child’s room the right way can contribute to a successful and productive school year.

Here are 5 tips to decorate and style your kid's bedroom for back-to-school success.

1 POSITIVE AND UPLIFTING ROOM DÉCOR

Pick a room theme or décor that is comforting and positive. Refrain from picking harsh stimulating themes, décor or bed sheets.

Avoid wild animals or prints, symbols of violence and destruction, or fighting superheroes or ninjas. These may stimulate young children, keeping them up and making it difficult to wake up in the morning for school. What surrounds your child in their room inspires them when they're awake and soothes them when they are sleeping.

2 PROPER FURNITURE SIZE AND PLACEMENT

Pick furniture that fits properly and proportionally to the size of the room. The ideal placement for the bed is referred to as the “command position,” when the bed is placed facing the door in the room (preferably diagonally, not directly in front of it or in line with it) so you can see the door and who’s entering. Also, a solid headboard against the wall rather than under the window is an excellent placement to help the child feel secure and peaceful.

These simple changes make a significant impact on your child’s energy and sleep patterns.

3 DECORATE WITH SYMBOLS OF INTENTION

Incorporate décor symbols of things they love, achievements they are proud of, or their artwork. Also incorporate signs of any places they want to visit or new things they want to do or try this upcoming school year.

These symbols create a point of inspiring motivation, and decorating this way will build their confidence, self-esteem and happiness.

4

5

INSPIRE THEM TO BE THEIR OWN HERO

Have a symbol or décor item of your child’s role model in their room. It can be a real or fictional character they have a connection with and admire. The role model will give them a feeling of security and comfort that someone has their back. This feeling of confidence is a great way to start off the new school year!

CLEAN, CLEAR, ORGANIZED AND CLUTTER-FREE

A space that’s clean and organized creates a harmonious ambiance. Dust and vacuum often. Create “breathing room” on kids’ shelves, under the bed and in the closet. Declutter toys and books periodically to create a healthy flow of energy in the room.

Before school starts is a great time to clear out the old and open the pathways for exciting new beginnings for the school year.

JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 27

EDUCATION | GUEST EDITOR

a balance of

learning and fun

By Kate White, Director of Marketing at the Glazer Children’s Museum

As a mom of two young daughters, I’m especially lucky to work at a children’s museum. I draw inspiration from the museum’s exhibits, programs and camp curriculum to provide my girls with an exciting summer full of learning and fun. Here are some of my favorite techniques for curating that perfect balance of learning and fun this summer.

CITIZEN SCIENCE Take bird or bug watching to the next level by contributing your findings to science! Scientists often rely on the public to better understand animal populations and migratory patterns. You don’t have to visit a national park or buy expensive binoculars. There are plenty of free resources like BumbleBeeWatch.org and the Merlin Bird ID App where you can log sightings and explore data. Practicing citizen science encourages outdoor time while teaching kids about ecology and their responsibility as global citizens.

FARM-TO-TABLE You don’t need a garden or even a green thumb to teach your

COLLABORATIVE ART Collaborative art projects are an incredible tool for teaching kids culture, collaboration, creativity and sharing. Invite friends to add to your child’s painting or task siblings to create something together, and talk to them about how collaboration makes our world better. At the Glazer Children’s Museum, kids draw individual pictures that are added to the wall, over time creating a beautiful piece of collaborative art.

STARGAZING This free nighttime ritual is wonderful for kids who are old enough to stay up late, and fascinating for the whole family! Download one of the many free astronomy apps like Star Chart or Star Walk 2 to figure out which constellations you are seeing, chart the course of satellites, and even compare the night sky over time. Many apps use your phone’s camera to give you the information from your exact perspective. Stargazing can spark curiosity and foster your child’s interest in science.

ONGOING PROJECTS Embark on a project, story or game that won’t be

completed in one session. This summer, my 3-year-old, Audrey, and I have been diving into our imaginary world of the mermaid sisters Auckerlasher and Lazer.

Did I mention Audrey has a unique skill for naming characters? Each night, we add new adventures to their story. Sometimes I forget recent plot twists, but Audrey remembers in remarkable detail! Whether you create a story like ours, play a game of chess (I recommend a magnetic board so the pieces stay in place), or add to the same craft over time, an ongoing project teaches followthrough, patience and complexity.

GUEST SPEAKERS

You’ve probably noticed that your child responds differently to the same activity when led by another adult. Likewise, the toys, supplies and even furniture at another kid’s house become instantly more interesting than what’s at home. My neighbor Lindsey and I embrace this phenomenon. One day she brings her kids over and I lead an experiment, story time or outdoor play for the whole group. The next day at her house she takes the lead. The whole group benefits from the different perspectives, variety of techniques and change of venue.

kids the farm-to-table concept. Herbs and citrus can grow in pots and usually thrive in Florida, as long as they get enough water. We have a large flowerpot in our backyard where we planted a lime tree and mint plant (that my husband and I jokingly call the mojito bush). My kids helped plant them and love tasting the fruit of their labor! The farm-to-table concept teaches kids nutrition, the value of hard work and where their food comes from.

MUSEUMS As a museum lover, I can’t complete this list without informal

learning institutions like the Glazer Children’s Museum. While a lot of families already enjoy visiting museums, zoos and aquariums, and recognize their importance in a child’s development, many don’t take advantage of the fabulous reciprocal programs available. Members of the Glazer Children’s Museum, for example, gain free or discounted access to a myriad of other museums and institutions locally and across the country.

MINDFULNESS

Kids balance a variety of stressors from tests to bullying to social media, and it is our responsibility to help them hone that balance.

Whether you take your child to a yoga class, practice meditation at home or simply set aside quiet time each day, you can prepare your kids for the pressure of a new school year and beyond. Practicing mindfulness helps develop key skills for social and emotional wellness such as patience, self-awareness and resilience.

I hope you enjoy trying some of these activities with your family this summer! Balancing summer learning and fun is a great complement to the structured education of the classroom and cultivates well-rounded, creative and capable kids.

28 TampaBayParenting.com | JULY 2018

JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 29

FOOD + DRINK | DATE TRADEWINDS NIGHT GUIDE

M

aple Street Biscuit Company recently made its debut on Central Avenue in the heart of St. Petersburg.

Maple Street Biscuit Company has multiple locations across Florida, and the people of St. Pete are excited to finally have one of their own. Although it has only been open since the beginning of April, Maple Street has already seen lines out the door of hungry diners waiting to order their decadent biscuit sandwiches.

Maple Street’s buttermilk biscuits are made in-house every morning. They are buttery, flaky and melt in your mouth with each bite.

You can buy a half-dozen or dozen with a side of homemade jam, jelly or apple butter, but it is the sandwiches that really make this place stand out.

One of the local favorites is the Squawking Goat, which has been featured on Food Network. It starts with a fresh biscuit, of course, and stuffed between each half is a crispy all-natural fried chicken breast and a fried goat cheese medallion, topped with homemade pepper jelly. For only $8, you and your loved one can taste a breakfast sandwich like no other.

Another favorite is the Sticky Maple. This sandwich comes with a piece of fried chicken and pecan wood smoked bacon, and is topped with maple syrup. Couples also love the Big Five, which comes with the delicious chicken breast, bacon, cheddar cheese and homemade sausage gravy, as well as the option to add a fried egg for a small extra charge. The Iron Goat is a vegetarian option, with a biscuit, goat cheese and sautéed spinach.

In addition to the biscuits, Maple Street also offers other tasty options such as chicken and waffles, which have pecan wood smoked bacon cooked inside, hashpups (home fries topped with smoked ham, peppers, grilled onions, and melted cheese), cream cheese grits (topped with bacon, butter and chives) and fried green tomatoes. They also have a variety of fresh juices and coffees to help you and your loved one wash down all the decadent food you are inhaling.

The staff at Maple Street is friendly and helpful and will make you feel right at home. In addition, when you are ordering at the counter, rather than asking for your “name for the order,” they will ask a more personal question such as “What’s your favorite band?”

And don’t worry, even if the shop is crowded, your biscuits will still come up quick. With spacious indoor and outdoor seating areas, there is plenty of room for a couple to sit.

Maple Street is the perfect date spot for couples looking to try a new yummy place for breakfast. Grab your loved one and head on down; you’re going to want to try these biscuits.

Find them at 662 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, 33701.

Image courtesy of Nicole Decker Photography

bring on the biscuits SWAP THE FANCY WHITE LINEN FOR A DATE “NIGHT” WITH A DIFFERENCE

By Nicole Decker for tampabaydatenightguide.com

30 TampaBayParenting.com | JULY 2018

Find out how watermelon grower Laura Land conserves water, visit

Through the CARES Program, Florida Farm Bureau Federation is proud to honor generations of farm familes who work together to protect our state’s natural resources. To learn more about CARES, visit www.thisfarmcares.org.

SPONSORED BY @THISFARMCARES

JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 31

32 TampaBayParenting.com | JULY 2018

RUNWAY TRANSLATOR | BEAUTY + STYLE

NAILS, LASHES & DESTINATIONS Michelle Bremer's favorite things

By Michelle Bremer of Runwaytranslator.com

LUXE LASHES

1

A LITTLE SUMMER SPARKLE

Kendra Scott Black Glitter Nail Polish I got this as a gift and love to add a little sparkle over my pink nude nails for summer.

TOP TRESSES

3

2

iViva Luxury Lash Enhancing System This really works! I apply the Growth Serum before bed and wear the mascara daily. When I want some extra volume and length, I add the Lashfibers.

4 RIDE OUT

City Bike Tampa Super friendly atmosphere! Rent, buy or repair, this downtown bike shop has it all.

L'anza Neem Plant Silk Serum Hair Treatment I always use this before my hair experiences the heat of a blow dryer or flat iron.

5

+

Bubbly Barchique & Don Me Now Tampa’s only champagne-barand-boutique in one! Two of my favorite activities in one space: shopping and champagne! What more could a gal ask for?

TAMPA'S ONLY CHAMPAGNE BAR AND BOUTIQUE Photos by Theresa NeSmith Photography JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 33

M

i

WIND. BLOWN. THE THRILL OF A LIFETIME, EVERY TIME

iFLYworld.com iFLY TAMPA 10654 Palm River Rd Tampa, FL 813-773-4359

34 TampaBayParenting.com | JULY 2018

AMAZING FUN FOR AGES 3 TO 103 Corporate Outings, Birthdays and More!

Fully customizable packages & catering for groups of all sizes.

special advertising section

iFly

iflyworld.com/tampa

If you’ve ever dreamt of flying, Tampa is the place to be!

Since 1998, Texas-based iFLY Indoor Skydiving has been the world leader in design, manufacturing, sales and operations of wind tunnel systems for indoor skydiving. iFLY has flown over 9,000,000 million guests in over a dozen countries, but loves to boast Florida as the state that started it all. Taking off in Orlando, Florida in 1998 and landing in Tampa in 2016, launching new locations in Orlando and Fort Lauderdale.

Their teams have celebrated all of life’s best moments with our guests. Whether birthdays, family reunions, team building events, or marriage proposals, the local staff is excited to share the gift of flight with each flyer.

While every flight is unique, their proudest moments are those they share with local schools during their STEM-based field trips, or when watching a flyer with cognitive or physical disabilities take their first flight, leaving those perceived disabilities behind. There’s no magic quite like witnessing the joy on a flyer’s face as they push past their limitations.

With flying truly being for everyone, they welcome young and old, athletes and first timers, and are especially honored to fly with local first responders and Military personnel.

For iFLY, the experience is more than a once-in-a-lifetime event. For those who have taken flight, there is an inexplicable bond between flyers, especially between athletes who compete in the sport of Body Flight. This community has extended to over 70 locations across the globe with a comradery that breaks past country divides. If you haven’t tried iFLY yet – grab your friends and let’s FLY!

PIZZA FUN & GAMES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

T I Fun Center *$5 Game Card with Purchase of Large Pizza* 7770 Seminole Blvd. Seminole, FL 727.391.9105 - TIFunCenter.com

With classics like Ms Pac-Man to the latest big screen games, as well as pool, pinball, air hockey and kiddie rides, there's fun for the whole family! Challenge your friends on head-to-head racing games or test your skill on ticket games and choose from an incredible selection of prizes. Hungry? Pegleg's Pizza offers delicious made-to-order pizzas, pretzels, nuggets, ice cream and more. Treasure Island Fun Center is a great place for birthday, class and team parties, with unlimited play packages starting at just $12 per person! Field trips and family fun packages are also available.

tifuncenter.com JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 35

OF FUN

special advertising section

OF FUN

ATTRACTIONS, ACTIVITIES AND ALL-DAY ADVENTURES Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay 10165 N. McKinley Drive, Tampa, 33612 813-884-FUN; buschgardenstampa.com Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay is the ultimate family adventure, offering 300 acres of fascinating attractions based on exotic explorations around the world. A unique blend of thrilling rides, one of the country's premier zoos with more than 12,000 animals, live shows, restaurants, shops and games, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay provides unrivaled excitement for guests of every age.

Cade Museum 811 S. Main St., Gainesville, 32601 352-371-8001; cademuseum.org The Cade Museum for Creativity & Invention invites you to visit our 26,000-square-foot facility, a place to meet featured inventors, to be engaged in our labs, be curious in our exhibits, and be inspired to ask questions. Robot Zoo exhibit allows visitors to study the form and function of real animals and insects through their biomechanical counterparts – robots. Our permanent interactive exhibit, The Sweat Solution, showcases the invention of Gatorade and its incredible global impact.

Elite Animation Academy 5215 W. Laurel St., Tampa, 33607 813-321-3939; eliteanimationacademy.com From June 4 to Aug. 10, these weekly camps are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the fee covers all supplies included (except lunch). We have over 50 years animation experience from Walt Disney feature Animation, Marvel Comics, Dream Works Animation, Warner Brothers Studios and other forward leading industry professionals. Learn from the best! With small classes and exceptional instructors, we are now enrolling in all summer camps in Tampa.

Florida Aquarium 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa, 33602 813-273-4000; flaquarium.org Get face-to-face with thousands of captivating creatures, ranging from majestic sand tiger sharks to energetic otters, endangered sea turtles and exotic ring-tailed lemurs. We have a fun kids’ play area, The Splash Pad, and an exciting 4-D theater. You can even go on a Wild Dolphin Cruise* where we search for dolphins in Tampa Bay. *Reservations and additional fees required. Weather permitting.

36 TampaBayParenting.com | JUNE JULY 2018 2018

Glazer Children's Museum 110 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, 33602 813-443-3861; GlazerMuseum.org Play with purpose at the Glazer Children’s Museum, Tampa’s interactive, learning laboratory where children play, discover and connect to the world around them to develop as lifelong learners and leaders. Continue the learning all summer with imaginative programs and a special reading nook!

OF FUN

iFLY Tampa 10654 Palm River Rd. Tampa, FL 33619 813-779-4359; iflyworld.com/tampa Beat the heat this summer and get some air time at iFLY Tampa! Looking for something different? Check out our Flight School program for flyers ages 4-16! Ask their team for program details and summer special, email sales.tampa@iflyworld.com

Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa, 33617 813 987-6000; mosi.org Stay cool and get STEAM-ed this summer at MOSI! Sit in the pilot’s seat of tomorrow’s space craft in Be the Astronaut! Discover CONNECTUS, where guests can touch the future of technology. Hear stories of the night sky in the newly upgraded Saunders Planetarium. Visit Idea Zone where everyone can engineer hands-on projects, then challenge your senses on our 36-foot-high multilevel Sky Trail Ropes Course, featuring new obstacles that will get your adrenaline pumping!

PK's Play Zone & Grille 10019 W. Hillsborough Ave., Tampa, 33615 813-999-4987; pkplayzone.com PK's Play Zone & Grille is one of the newest and largest indoor family fun centers in Tampa. Our 43,000-square-foot center hosts six attractions and has over 100 high definition arcade and redemption video games. The arena is the perfect destination for parents and kids for bonding and enjoyment. The arena provides free entry and plenty of free parking space. PK's Family Fun Center offers a fun and friendly atmosphere for kids and the entire family.

Plantation on Crystal River 9301 West Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, 34429 352-795-4211; plantationoncrystalriver.com Plantation on Crystal River offers several specials and packages to help sculpt the vacation you are looking for! It’s the perfect quick getaway and the perfect place to create life long memories of family vacations.

Plantation on Crystal River is a beautiful 50-year-old, 232-acre ecofriendly resort, offering comfortable accommodations, a full-service spa, and is surrounded by the natural springs of Kings Bay. It's only an hour and 15 minutes up the Veterans Expressway from downtown Tampa.

St. Petersburg Country Club 2000 Country Club Way S., St. Petersburg, FL 33712 727-867-2111; stpetecountryclub.com St. Petersburg Country Club is a family-friendly, full service, private, member-owned country club with an unparalleled history in Tampa Bay. SPCC offers summer golf, tennis, and social memberships with unlimited access for six months at an amazing value. Family memberships include access to kids camps, sports camps, family nights, tiki bar with poolside dining and more.

JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 37

OF FUN

special advertising section

TradeWinds Island Resorts 5500 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach, 33706 866.JustLetGo; JustLetGo.com The perfect summer vacation awaits at TradeWinds Island Resorts, two neighboring resorts set on the sugar white sands of St. Pete Beach.

Whether you stay at TradeWinds Island Grand or Guy Harvey Outpost, you’ll enjoy endless beachside fun and superb amenities at both! From unlimited rides down the three-story water slide to live music at the tiki bar, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy. There are kids’ club activities and drop-off camps, too!

Treasure Island Fun Center 7770 Seminole Blvd., Seminole, 33772 727-391-9105; tifuncenter.com With classics like Ms. Pac-Man to the latest big screen games, as well as pool, pinball, air hockey and kiddie rides, there's fun for the whole family! Challenge your friends on head-to-head racing games or test your skill on ticket games and choose from an incredible selection of prizes. Hungry? Pegleg's Pizza offers delicious made-to-order pizzas, pretzels, nuggets, ice cream and more. Birthday parties, field trips and family fun packages available.

Westfield Citrus Park 8021 Citrus Park Town Dr., Tampa, 33625 813-926-4644; westfield.com/citruspark Join in the fun this summer as Westfield Citrus Park launches Wild Wonders, an interactive series of family events, educational experiences, and movie nights set within an enchanting zoo animal topiary garden, adorned with captivating florals to invite a sense of discovery and delight. The Wild Wonders exhibit and experience will begin on July 12 and run through Aug. 5.

Tampa YMCA Office: 110 E. Oak Ave., Tampa, 33602 813-224-9622; tampaymca.org This summer at the Y, we are committed to not only being your home for fitness but also a place of community and belonging. Enjoy the total member experience with weekly poolside fun, special pop-up events, fitness challenges and more! At the Y, you will experience community, develop relationships, achieve your goals and belong to something bigger than yourself. Visit one of our nine family centers today!

ZooTampa at Lowry Park 1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa, 33604 813-935-8552; zootampa.org At ZooTampa at Lowry Park, experience wildlife like never before. Go behind the scenes on an Expedition Africa safari ride, get nose-to-horn with an Indian rhino and discover endangered Florida wildlife. Then, feel the rush of a three-story splashdown on the new family water adventure: Roaring Springs! Pay for a day, get the rest of 2018 free.

38 TampaBayParenting.com | JUNE JULY 2018 2018

Westfield Citrus Park All summer long, Westfield Citrus Park will be the place to come play and gather with friends and family while enjoying incredible food, entertainment and social experiences. The Wild Wonders exhibit will begin on July 12 and run through August 5. Wild Wonders will emulate an enchanting zoo animal topiary garden, adorned with captivating florals to invite a sense of discovery and delight.

Geared towards children and families, in partnership with Tampa Bay Lightning, Big Cat Rescue, The Florida Aquarium, Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) and the YMCA, Wild Wonders will provide a robust schedule of animal themed events.

Other fun family-friendly events at Wild Wonders include a zoo themed story and craft time by Learning Express, animal face painting by Paul Mitchell the School, Movies at the Park where families can bring chairs and blankets to an indoor movie screening complete with treats every Thursday, plus so much more.

Visit Westfield.com/CitrusPark for full details

COME COME PLAY PLAY WILD WONDERS AT CITRUS PARK WILD WONDERS AT CITRUS PARK JULY 12–AUGUST JULY 12–AUGUST 5 5 An interactive of family events, An interactive seriesseries of family events, educational experiences, nights, and more. educational experiences, moviemovie nights, and more.

To learn westfield.com/citruspark To learn more,more, visit: visit: westfield.com/citruspark

@WestfieldCitrusPark @WestfieldCitrusPark #WestfieldCitrusPark #WestfieldCitrusPark JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 39

Contact

Tutoring, Enrichment, Home School Services & Summer Camp www.bullseyelearning.com Toll free: 1-844-430-1645 Local: 813-413-4998 Mailing address: P.O. Box 3573, Brandon, FL 33509

JUDITH CATALDO, DIRECTOR

Piano lessons and classes for every age Private Lessons, Group Classes

Camp Location

Bloomingdale Presbyterian Church 710 East Bloomingdale Ave Brandon, FL 33511

MUSICAL ARTS PIANO CONSERVATORY

& Summer Music Camps PIANO IS OUR PASSION! 2101 W.Xennedv'Blvd. Tampa. YC... 33606

WWW. MUSICALARTSPIANOCONSERVATORY.COM (813)294-1348

ST. PETERSBURG COUNTRY CLUB FAMILY FUN STARTS WITH HAPPY KIDS

Kids Camp Ages 5 to 13

Tennis Camp Ages 5 to 18

Golf Camp Ages 7 to 18

Swim Team Ages 5 to 18

KIDS CAMPS

Full Week, Full Day & Half Day Options Monday - Friday 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

- Sign up for one or a combination Summer Membership Applications and Camp Registration Forms are available online.

www.stpetecountryclub.com 2000 Country Club Way South • St. Petersburg, FL 33712 727.867.2111 • stpetecountryclub.com 40 TampaBayParenting.com | JULY 2018

One of the Largest Indoor Fun Centers in Tampa!

Place for Birthday, Graduation, Corporate & Family Party/Get Together ATTRACTIONS • • • • • • • • •

LASER TAG SPINZONE POOL TABLE INDOOR GOLF ROCK CLMBING INDOOR BOWLING ELECTRONIC DARTS ROPE COURSE-SKYTRAIL OVER 110 HIGH DEFINITION VIDEO AND REDEMPTION GAMES

*Private party room *Party host *No Parking or Entry Fee *Check specials for group discount

PKPlayZone.com 813-999-4987

10019 W. Hillsborough Ave, Tampa JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 41

FOOD + DRINK HEALTH + WELLNESS | TRADEWINDS | FLORIDA HOSPITAL

SPONSORED

A

ll the pediatric expertise, specialized technology and kid-friendly spaces in the world don’t mean much if they’re too far away to fit in your family’s life.

It is in the spirit of bringing that care closer to home for families in Hillsborough and Pasco counties — without compromising on quality — that Florida Hospital Tampa is working together with a regional expert in pediatrics, Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital.

This collaboration has matured to the point where Florida Hospital Tampa can treat a wide range of pediatric conditions, including surgery and neonatal care.

“Our [affiliation] seems to grow by the month, thanks in part to a strong commitment by administrators who are fully vested in high-quality pediatric care,” says Dr. Drew Rideout, pediatric surgeon and surgical director of the Intestinal Rehabilitation Program at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital.

Dr. Rideout and his partners have brought to Florida Hospital Tampa their surgical niche of minimally invasive neonatal and pediatric surgery, a technique that uses much smaller incisions, allowing most children to recover in just a few days.

In addition to collaborating with All Children’s Specialty Physicians like Dr. Rideout, Florida Hospital Tampa has specialized technology and kid-friendly settings. That includes a pirate-themed emergency room lobby with interactive game stations and a vibrant jungle-themed pediatric inpatient unit.

Technology investments have made Florida Hospital Tampa’s pediatric care both safer and more child-friendly. For example, the emergency room features colorful lighting and wall projections to calm and distract children. Similar ambient lighting is used in

Care CLOSE TO HOME FLORIDA HOSPITAL TAMPA’S AFFILIATION WITH JOHNS HOPKINS ALL CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL BRINGS HIGH-QUALITY PEDIATRIC CARE TO TAMPA BAY PATIENTS

By Florida Hospital Tampa Staff

42 TampaBayParenting.com | JULY 2018

the pediatric operating room that features state-of-the-art equipment, including an anesthesia machine tailored to the safety needs of children.

Along with these upgrades comes something less visible but just as important: the special know-how to treat infants, children and adolescents. After all, quality health care isn’t only about technology; it’s also about the hundreds of little steps that have been painstakingly created based on the best scientific evidence.

And Florida Hospital Tampa has integrated these steps from Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, called clinical guidelines, into its care for children.

For example, Dr. Rideout and his partners have been working with physicians in Florida Hospital emergency departments to reduce radiation exposure to young patients. It’s an especially important issue for children, who are more sensitive to the effects of radiation.

Most children with abdominal pain now receive an X-ray and ultrasound instead of a CT scan to test for appendicitis, reducing radiation exposure by more than 90 percent.

Nowhere are child-specific clinical guidelines more important than for the treatment of infants. Florida Hospital Tampa’s neonatal intensive care unit, staffed at all times by a Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital neonatologist, is well suited to accommodate high-risk births.

Florida Hospital Tampa has also invested in staff who support children and their families.

Its child life specialist uses play to reduce stress, helping kids and their families cope with the challenges of their hospital experience. When appropriate, families also have access to a pediatric social worker, dietitian and chaplain.

Expanding high-quality pediatric care to Florida Hospital Tampa — by providing the only pediatric critical care services for residents of northern Hillsborough and eastern Pasco counties — is about more than convenience.

When your child is in the hospital, being close to home minimizes time lost travelling back and forth, and helps you maintain a connection with your nearby family.

By combining kid-friendly settings, expertise in pediatric care and use of the latest clinical guidelines and technology, Florida Hospital Tampa and Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital have put high-quality care in reach for Hillsborough and Pasco county families.

JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 43

GROWING TOGETHER

A NEW Pediatric ER for your family’s emergencies!

HCA

Tailored exclusively for young patients, the Pediatric Center at Brandon Regional Hospital provides advanced pediatric care for kids of all ages.

As your family grows, our Pediatric Center experts are here for you:

All NEW Pediatric ER with dedicated entrance and family areas Advanced Pediatric Inpatient and Intensive Care Units Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) NICU and Pediatric Surgical Care from All Children’s Specialty Physicians

For more information on the Pediatric Center, or to find a pediatric specialist for your child call (813) 653-1065.

44 TampaBayParenting.com | JULY 2018

119 Oakfield Drive I Brandon, Florida

SCREEN SENSE | HEALTH + WELLNESS

By Ashley Glass

Y

istock.com/johavel, istock.com/Paket

ou have a rapidly approaching work deadline or an important phone call to make.

Maybe you’re just out of steam and craving five minutes without the sounds of whining children dominating your living room.

You cast aside the unsolicited advice from your most regimented mommy friend who says screens are never your friend and plop the kids in front of a TV. You think to yourself as guilt is already creeping in, “Only for a few.” Sound familiar? It does for Tampa toddler mom Lauren Rozyla-Wong.

“Sometimes, I’m just exhausted and cave to my own rules.

We’re all human. Sometimes, I’m just grateful we live in a world with Paw Patrol!”

We want our children to be able to navigate real life and screens aren’t going anywhere. Screens are real life. “We want to capitalize on the benefit by utilizing these tools in moderation to get the best out of what they offer,” says Jennifer Walker. Walker is one of two nurse-moms known as “Moms on Call,” who have a loyal following of curious and new parents.

The American Academy of Pediatrics has recommendations on screen time, which in part includes avoiding screen time (other than video-chatting) for children younger than 18 months. Full AAP recommendations are at aap.org/en-us/about-the-aap/ aap-press-room/pages/american-academy-ofpediatrics-announces-new-recommendations-forchildrens-media-use.aspx For older kids, Moms on Call suggest 20 minutes of screen time twice a day as you fold laundry or prepare dinner as a sweet spot. Also, don’t worry about those dreaded days of a long car ride when kids might watch a screen for hours. “They will be fine,” Walker assures.

“Some days we have none and some days we use this tool to get to Grandpa’s house. When we get there, we will play outside and have that wonderful person-to-person contact.”

Screens don’t have to be a total babysitter. Instead of looking something up on Google, use the smartphone to call an actual person. Show your children how to leave a message and enjoy the archaic anticipation of waiting for a response. Moms on Call encourage parents to use technology to explore something together. “We forget that we can use it to interact with one another,” Walker says. “Look for the day’s activities together. Preview the zoo on it and discuss what wonderful things you may see the next day when you travel there.”

Keep screens out of the bedtime routine. That’s something Dr. Kristopher Kaliebe, University of South Florida Associate Professor of Psychiatry, can’t stress enough. “There’s a psychological arousal of doing these things before bed,” he says, adding that your child’s sleep will likely be interrupted and we all know how that story ends: with a grumpy toddler sunrise to sundown the following day begging for more screen time to perpetuate the soured sleepcycle. No, thank you!

Speaking of begging, let’s address what to do when your child wants too much screen time. By that I mean howling, stomping, gluing their tiny bodies to the ground and pleading for more as mommy and daddy put the tablet away on the bookshelf. You know exactly what I’m talking about. “Give them two pieces of information – the truth and what they can do about it,” Walker says. “When

Screen sense

N AV IG AT IN G T W H E N A N D WHHE H O W, SCRE E NS FOR Y OF K ID S

By Ashley Glass

mommy says to put up the iPad, it’s time to turn it off. I know you like to watch it and you will figure out how to put it away without a fuss.” Of course, they will fuss. Terribly at first, but stick to it. “Kids learn by repetition and confidence. So, say that same thing every time in a confident way as they learn to put it away without a fuss.”

Give yourself permission to release the guilt that often accompanies screen time. “Whatever you do, don’t be afraid,” Walker says. “Use screen time in moderation. Use it together and then go experience life in all its chaotic glory!”

JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 45

DO YOU HAVE A CHILD AGES BIRTH TO 5 YEARS WHO HAS DIFFICULTY WITH: 3 Sleeping 3 Eating 3 Following directions 3 Bathing or dressing 3 Temper tantrums 3 Calming Down

Join us for HOT DOCS parent training classes!

Seven 2-hour classes that meet once a week for parents, caregivers, and child service professionals in Hillsborough County.

Sessions include: • Skills review and weekly lesson • Parenting Tip and Special Play activity • Plan development, feedback, and coaching

Registration fees for 7-week course: • Parents and Caregivers: $10 per person • Professionals: $30 per person

Schedule & Locations: Morning and evening classes are offered at USF and in community locations and are generously funded by the Children’s Board.

For more information or to register contact: hotdocs@health.usf.edu | 813-974-1048 | http://hotdocs.health.usf.edu 46 TampaBayParenting.com | JULY 2018

Facebook: HOT DOCS parent training program

HEALTHY BODY IMAGE | HEALTH + WELLNESS Aimee O'Neil, owner of barre and cycling studios, is mindful of the language she uses about bodies in front of her daughter.

By Tara Payor, Ph.D.

T

ampa life means almost constant bathing suit season—heading to the beach with your adorable bare-bellied kids, toting along cupcakes and lemonade.

But somewhere along the way, I became acutely aware of my changing body and how sweets might morph it. While some research has shown a link between warmer climates and a higher prevalence of body consciousness and disordered eating, gender is most linked to those issues.

However, I’m committed to promoting a positive body image in my children regardless of gender.

Females are at greater risk, but males aren’t immune. Ensuring that daughters and sons understand the importance of good health, balance and having confidence in their bodies is crucial. Here, moms share their perspectives on body image, powerful words and dietary choices.

WEIGHT OF WORDS

Parents are powerful role models.

Children watch, listen and process what parents say and do, including things casually said in passing.

Dr. Megan Toufexis, a psychiatrist who treats eating disorders, says: “Moms and dads need to be positive role models when talking about body image. Parents need to accept compliments and say ‘thank you’ so children hear that instead of parents’ dissatisfaction with their appearance.” Aimee O’Neil, owner of barre and cycling studios, weighs the words she uses around her daughter: “I’m mindful not to talk about my body thoughtlessly, saying things like, ‘I feel fat.’ I know she processes everything I do—from brushing teeth to talking on the phone.”

SELF-CARE

A mom of three, Melissa Leto is also a physician assistant and health and wellness coach. Healthy lifestyle talks are common in her family. “I remind my kids to take good care of themselves in all aspects of life. I compliment all attributes, including

Model behavior POSITIVE ROLE MODELING FOR A POSITIVE BODY IMAGE their humor and intelligence.” Leto focuses on good health, staying active and inner beauty. When teaching kids about kindness, we need to teach being kind to oneself. We start by modeling healthy self-care habits.

Toufexis advises against discussing restrictive diets, calories, weight and clothing size around kids: “Parents should share positive things about their bodies and health.” She notes talking about the family’s goals to stay active and make healthful choices, so that minds and bodies are at their best, are okay.

SHARING MOMENTS

Research shows family meals positively impact kids. “Much is learned at meals,” says Toufexis, “how much kids eat, role modeling healthy choices and how to connect as family.”

Leto’s family eats together as much as possible, and she involves them in grocery shopping by asking for input about vegetables and fruits they’ll try: “We eat all the colors of the rainbow.”

Her children learn about nutrition because she discusses how healthy choices help fight diseases. O’Neil, who started researching nutrition at 14 because of body image questions, hopes that her role modeling, coupled with the fitness environments she shares with her daughter, help her understand good health: “My lifestyle is a testament to a healthy body image. I encourage strength building and confidence.”

POSITIVITY

With intention, parents can promote a positive body image and healthy relationship with food. Instead of counting calories, kids need to count on parents’ teachings about the power of good health. They need to count on parents’ modeling about the beauty of confidence in one’s cared-for, able body.

LEARN & CONNECT

• Connect with Dr. Toufexis at drmegantoufexis.com • Learn ways to stay active as a family • Eat together as a family • Resources for eating disorders: centerfordiscovery.com/locationstreatment/florida/ and rogersbh.org/locations/tampa • Learn how to transform food relationships from the Ellyn Satter Institute ellynsatterinstitute.org • Find Aimee on Instagram @aimeeathena • Find Melissa on Instagram @dermpafitmom

JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 47

get those

48 TampaBayParenting.com | JULY 2018

BEDTIME BASICS | HEALTH + WELLNESS

P

utting a kid to bed on a regular school night is hard enough. Now try doing it when it’s still light outside and they slept in until 11 a.m. that morning. Shrugging off normal routines may be part of summer fun, but now that school days are around the corner again, it’s time to gently start nudging our little ones back into the grooves of time.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, just 25 fewer minutes of sleep per night can lead to fatigue, concentration problems and lower grades, so parents should move bedtime back by five to 15 minutes a day beginning two weeks before the first day of school. The AAP says that not getting enough sleep each night is associated with an increase in injuries, hypertension, obesity and depression. Getting enough sleep, on the other hand, has been associated with improved attention, behavior, learning, memory, emotional regulation, quality of

life, and mental and physical health.

Sleep expert Shari Mezrah knows a thing or two about the process. Known as “The Sleep Mom,” Mezrah is the author of “The Baby Sleeps Tonight” and a Tampa-based family sleep and schedule expert who has helped countless exhausted parent regain their dreams and sanity. She believes that parents who are in control of schedules and variables are better situated for “predictable happiness,” where the whole family stays on track and therefore, well rested and relaxed. (sharimezrah.com) “One week prior to the first day of school, start working on getting bedtime back on schedule,” Mezrah advises. “Prepare, prepare, prepare: The concept that I developed and utilize is called “predictable happiness,” being one step ahead of your child’s needs as well as your own.”

MEZRAH’S TIPS FOR BACK-TO-SCHOOL PREP:

• Never tell your child to “go to bed;” it sounds like a command and can cause anxiety.

• The night before, lay out clothing choices.

• Make a breakfast/lunch chart so food choices are already made. Happy Day notes in lunch boxes are always a big hit!

• TALK as a family about the high and lows of the day, not only about what made you happy or sad, but also discuss the plan for tomorrow.

back-to-school BEDTIME BASICS OUR EXPERT’S TIPS ON GETTING BACK INTO A BEDTIME ROUTINE

By Anu Varma Panchal

SLEEP SUGGESTIONS FOR EVERY STAGE Babies and toddlers love routine. At healthychildren.org, the AAP talks about its bedtime program, "Brush, Book, Bed," (http://bit.ly/bedroutine), which details the importance of setting a nighttime routine at every age and stage of childhood and includes tips on how to read to infants and toddlers of different ages.

For school-age children, because trying to settle down to sleep in a chaotic and messy room isn’t very relaxing, the AAP suggests incorporating cleanup into bedtime routines. Children can put books and toys back on shelves and clothes in drawers and closets, making their room a more pleasant place to sleep and things easier to find in the morning.

By the middle-school years, the AAP says it’s OK to delay weekend bedtimes and differentiate lights out times by age. But even though older kids love to sleep in, try and wake them up within an hour or so of the usual time to prevent backsliding completely out of routine. Keep those electronics out or turned off well before bed to prevent interfering with your child’s circadian rhythms.

• Teach your child to breathe and let go of the day. Guided imagery also good for relaxation.

• Limit electronics 45 minutes before bed.

• Have an early dinner, but allow your child a healthy bedtime snack of protein.

However, if the child has nighttime wakings, limit sugar after 3 p.m.

• For the anxious little ones in your home, keep a pad of paper and pen by the bedside. That way, any of those “Oh, I forgot to…” items can be noted down and referred to the next day.

HERE’S HOW MUCH YOUR CHILD SHOULD SLEEP, ACCORDING TO THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF PEDIATRICS.

• Infants 4 months to 12 months 12 to 16 hours per 24 hours (including naps) • Children 1 to 2 years 11 to 14 hours per 24 hours (including naps) • Children 3 to 5 years 10 to 13 hours per 24 hours (including naps) • Children 6 to 12 years 9 to 12 hours per 24 hours • Teenagers 13 to 18 years of age 8 to 10 hours per 24 hours

JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 49

A FAMILY A FAMILY WATER ADVENTURE WATER ADVENTURE A FAMILY NOW OPEN! NOW OPEN! WATER ADVENTURE

Trek to discover endangered Florida wildlife, then board a boat for a familyFlorida journey along athen flowing stream and Trek to discover endangered wildlife, board a boat for a thrill family a flowing and to journey the roaralong of a three storystream splashdown. thrill to the Pay roar for of aday, threerest storyofsplashdown.

2018 FREE!

NOW OPEN!

Pay for day, restFlorida of 2018 FREE! Trek to discover endangered wildlife, then board a boat for a family journey along a flowing stream and FUNDING MADE POSSIBLE IN PART BY thrill to the roar of SAFETY a three story splashdown.

OFFICIAL PRESENTED BY

THE HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY BOARD OF

PARTNER: FUNDING MADE POSSIBLECOUNTY BY Pay forSAFETY day, rest of THE 2018 FREE! IN PARTCOMMISSIONERS. OFFICIAL HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY BOARD OF PARTNER:

PRESENTED BY

OFFICIAL SAFETY

50 TampaBayParenting.com | JULY 2018 PARTNER: PRESENTED BY

COUNTY COMMISSIONERS.

FUNDING MADE POSSIBLE IN PART BY THE HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS.

ZooTampa.o ZooTampa.org

Image courtesy of Kim Christine

IT TAKES TWO: Tampa General Hospital Employee Wellness Manager Kim Christine enjoys bicycling with her son, Makoa.

PLAN AHEAD

The American Heart Association recommends that adults participate in physical activity 30 minutes a day, five times a week.

The Association also advises healthy children, ages 2 and older, partake in an hour of moderate to vigorous exercise daily.

How can busy parents best schedule family workouts in the melting months?

Kim Christine, Employee Wellness Manager at Tampa General Hospital, says families can exercise together early in the day to beat the heat. “If you're going to do outside activities, do as much as you can first thing when you wake up in the morning before getting your day started,” says Christine. Doing so allows families to accomplish a joint task and substitutes kids’ early morning mobile screen time with more healthy movement.

People should avoid exercising between noon and 3 p.m., when the sun’s rays shine their brightest. This reduces the risk of heat stroke or heat exhaustion.

I THINK MAKING EXERCISE FUN IS IMPORTANT TO KIDS. INVITE FRIENDS. PLAY GAMES THAT LET THEM MOVE AROUND, RATHER THAN ALWAYS HAVING STRUCTURED ACTIVITIES.

For those who prefer to take their family workout inside, community centers can provide opportunities for physical activity, often at reasonable rates. Christine suggests swimming, basketball and pickleball as indoor sports that guarantee a fun time for parents and kids.

COVER UP AND WATER DOWN

fit

A FAMILY ACHIEVE FITNESS GOALS AS A FAMILY OVER THE SUMMER WATER ADVENTURE

Hot weather can result in serious medical conditions as well as sunburn. Christine, who has a 9-year-old son, advises parents to use sunscreen on themselves and their children when outdoors.

She also emphasizes the significance of wearing a hat and sunglasses for added sun protection.

Christine suggests families keep hydrated throughout the day by drinking water, which aids in heart health and lowers the chance for heat stroke.

“I think that’s a rule of thumb with kids. Teach them to stay constantly hydrated and to take frequent breaks in the shade when playing outdoors for long periods of time.”

Contributed by American Heart Association - Tampa Bay

NOW OPEN!

MAKE IT FUN

Visit heart.org/healthykids for Exercise provides many benefits, including lowering the risk American Heart Association tips that Trek to discover endangered Florida wildlife, then board for chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, stroke and high blood will help you and your family get the a boat for a family journey along a flowing stream and pressure. Studies show that active parents raise active kids. most from summer workouts.

Both Christine and her son enjoy exercising. “We’re both very thrill to the roar of a three story splashdown. active,” she acknowledges. “We play basketball together. We swim together. That’s just a big part of our life.”

Although exercise promotes health, Christine highlights that it should also yield enjoyment. “I think making exercise fun is important to kids. Invite friends. Play games that let them move FUNDING MADE POSSIBLE IN PART BY around, rather than always having structured activities.”

OFFICIAL SAFETY THE HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY BOARD OF JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 51 PARTNER:

Pay for day, rest of 2018 FREE!

PRESENTED BY

COUNTY COMMISSIONERS.

istock.com/Askhold Romanov

org

S

SUMMER FITNESS | HEALTH + WELLNESS

ummer signals relaxation, fruit popsicles, paddle boarding and beach volleyball.

For some, however, summer also means staying indoors, escaping the heat and halting exercise routines. Don’t let our hot and humid Florida weather put a damper on your activities. The American Heart Association and Tampa General Hospital have tips to keep you and your family active through the hottest season.

FAMILY FUN | COVER STORY

Roaring springs at zoo tampa

so much more than a ride

G

et ready to journey back into Old Florida and explore one of the coolest attractions to debut this summer in Tampa Bay! Roaring Springs, presented

by Pinch a Penny, is part of the zoo’s expansion plans that will be rolling out over the new few years. When we say it’s cool, we mean that literally!

Right by Wallaroo Station, Roaring Springs features a little-kid-friendly boat ride that takes you down a 3-story splashdown into the crisp, cool waters of the springs. Kids must be at least 36 inches tall to ride.

While the ride is the featured attraction, there’s so much more to explore in this expanded area of the zoo with something for every child in your family.

EAT AT JOE'S DINER ZooTampa’s Chef Itza Henderson’s menu at Joe’s Diner is jam-packed with Florida-inspired dishes. Our favorites are the fish tacos, key lime pie cups, churro sandwiches with jam, and the fresh squeezed lemonade and orange juice. The iced tea is refreshing and even better with a splash of bourbon if you are looking for a 21+ concoction!

52 TampaBayParenting.com | JULY 2018

OLD COUNTRY STORE Every Old Florida city had a country store, and Roaring Springs is no different. This shop features items crafted by Tampa Bay area businesses including candles, soaps, small gifts and more.

They’ve also got a full stock of swim suits, towels and water shoes just in case you forget to bring yours.

PLAY AREA Let your kids’ imaginations run wild at the schoolhouse and country house.

The schoolhouse is set up with a full classroom inside, and our favorite feature of the country house is the sweet front porch swing! It’s the perfect place to play for little ones waiting for an older sibling to ride Roaring Springs or simply to take a play break during your visit at the zoo.

Be sure to stop by the post office too and mail a Roaring Springs post card to grandma!

Learn more at zootampa.org

JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 53

Having to be in a health care setting is often a stressful and frightening experience for children and families.

Recreation and play therapy give kids strategies for coping and bring a momentary escape from their illness. Donations to Christmas in July help dramatically alter a child’s hospital experience.

Here’s how you can make a difference: n Sponsor an extraordinary child experience

JULY 1–27

n Join our Office Challenge

18-405248-0518

n Drop off toys and donations at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital

54 TampaBayParenting.com | JULY 2018

StJosephsChristmas.org

JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 55

WHAT’S HAPPENING | JULY FOURTH EVENTS

istock.com/FeelPic

Happy Birthday USA! Here’s your ultimate Fourth of July celebration guide—fireworks, festivals and more!

HILLSBOROUGH

The Independence Run 5K/10K Sunday, July 1, 8 a.m.

If you're looking to start your celebrating early, you can do just that at the Independence Run 5K/10K! This run will take place in Al Lopez Park the Sunday before the Fourth of July. Choose from the 5K walk/run or the 10K run. All participants get a t-shirt, a custom finisher's medal, race timing and free photo access. runsignup.com Temple Terrace 4th of July Parade & Fireworks Wednesday, July 4, 10 a.m. to noon and 6 – 9 p.m.

For a fun parade, head to the Temple Terrace Family Recreation Complex in the morning of the Fourth of July. Then, at night, the celebration continues with food vendors, music and a fireworks show. templeterracechamber.com Tampa Red, White & Blue Festival Wednesday, July 4, 2 - 7 p.m.

At this free event in Cotanchobee Park, there will be contests, raffles, a food court, live performances, carnival games and much more! There is also a Made in America Zone featuring local artists, crafters and products. You can register for free and enter your name into the raffles here. eventbrite.com Fourth of July Tampa Fireworks Cruises Wednesday, July 4, 7- 9:30 p.m.

The Tampa Yacht Starship cruises are a perfect choice for your Independence Day celebration. Whether you opt for the dinner cruise, the VIP dinner cruise or the viewing cruise, expect a fun celebration and a great view of the fireworks shows in downtown Tampa.

Tickets sell out early, so make sure to get yours soon. yachtstarship.com Busch Gardens Independence Day Wednesday, July 4, all day Busch Gardens never fails to deliver great holiday celebrations and the Fourth of July is no different!

Enjoy roller coasters, rides, shows and more at your favorite local amusement park and stay through the evening for the extended fireworks show at night. This celebration is included with your daily park admission or pass. buschgardens.com 56 TampaBayParenting.com | JULY 2018

PINELLAS

Fourth of July Picnic in Craig Park Wednesday, July 4 | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Fourth of July Picnic celebration includes a water slide, paddle boarding, inflatables, lawn games, and even free hot dogs (while supplies last). There will also be a hot dog eating contest at noon as well as live entertainment provided by Rusty Trumpet from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. visitstpeteclearwater.com

Gulfport's July Fourth Celebration Wednesday, July 4 all day This Independence Day Celebration is an all-day event!

In the morning, there will be a fishing derby, a family sand sculpture contest and more. At 6 p.m., you can watch the Independence Day parade, and at 9 p.m., finish the night off with a beautiful fireworks show on Gulfport Beach. visitstpeteclearwater.com

Safety Harbor Fourth of July Parade and Celebration Wednesday, July 4, 10 a.m to noon and 5- 9 p.m.

Wear your red, white and blue to Main Street in Safety Harbor for a patriotic Independence Day parade. At night, head over to the Safety Harbor marina for live entertainment, children's activities, food vendors and more. And of course, you don't want to miss the fireworks show at 9 p.m. visitstpeteclearwater.com

PASCO

Clearwater Celebrates America Wednesday, July 4, 4 p.m.

The largest fireworks show in the Tampa Bay area is here! At Coachman Park, you can enjoy the Clearwater Celebrates America event with music, food, drinks, activities, local vendors and more. The fireworks show will occur at 9-9:30 p.m. visitstpeteclearwater.com Largo's 4th of July Celebration Wednesday, July 4, 6 p.m.

Celebrate the country’s birthday with food, entertainment, a pie eating contest, t-shirt decorating, inflatable activities and a fireworks show at 9:15 p.m. visitstpeteclearwater.com Fourth of July Clearwater Fireworks Dinner Cruise Wednesday, July 4, 7- 10 p.m.

At the Clearwater Yacht Starship dinner cruise, enjoy a Fourth of July buffet, an open bar, live DJ, dancing and a beautiful view of the fireworks at Coachman Park. Tickets sell out early, so make sure to get yours soon. yachtstarship.com

July 4th Celebration at Avalon Park West Wednesday, July 4, 5- 9 p.m.

For a celebration including food trucks, community performances, bike parades, contests and much more, head to Avalon Park West! This event is free to the public. There will also be a fireworks show for you to enjoy!

Celebrate America!, July 4, 4 - 8 p.m.

Celebrate Brooksville’s premier concert and family event at the Bandshell with a performance by the Hernando County Symphony Orchestra, free of admission. Spend the Fourth of July with family fun, games, storytellers, food, a petting zoo and other vendors leading up to an Independence Day fireworks display. hernandoarts.org

FIREWORKS SHOWS

If you're looking for just a fireworks show to attend, here are some you're sure to love! These shows do not include other activities besides the fireworks. If you'd rather attend a full celebration along with your fireworks, check out the events above!

Treasure Island Fourth of July Fireworks Wednesday, July 4, 9 p.m. at Treasure Island Park.

Parking is $10-$15 per vehicle.

Fireworks Across the Bay Celebration Wednesday, July 4, 9 p.m. at St Pete's Spa Beach Park.

JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 57

Great Books to Check Out This Summer There are so many adventures to find in books! If you’re looking for ideas or a book you haven’t read, PBS KIDS has drawn together a list we think is pretty great.

20 Great Read-Along Books

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom, Bill Martin, Jr. and John Archambault (2-6) Dragons Love Tacos, Adam Rubin (2-6) Press Here, Herve Tullet (2-6) Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!, Mo Willems (2-6) Harold and the Purple Crayon, Crockett Johnson (3-6)

20 Great Read-Aloud Books Goodnight Moon, Margaret Wise Brown (2-5) The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Eric Carle (2-5) The Snowy Day, Ezra Jack Keats (2-5) The Day the Crayons Quit, Drew Daywalt (2-6) Interrupting Chicken, David Ezra Stein (2-6)

Curious George, H.A. Rey and Margaret Rey (3-6)

If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, Laura Joffe Numeroff (2-6)

Madeline, Ludwig Bemelmans (3-7)

Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile, Bernard Waber (2-6)

Alligator Pie, Dennis Lee (3-7)

Corduroy, Don Freeman (3-5)

Stellaluna, Janell Cannon (3-7)

Green is a Chile Pepper: A Book of Colors, Roseanne Greenfield Thong (3-5)

Z is for Moose, Kelly Bingham (3-8) No, David!, David Shannon (3-8) Jazz, Walter Dean Myers (3-8) Leo: A Ghost Story, Mac Barnett (3-9) Olivia, Ian Falconer (4-6) Click Clack Moo: Cows That Type, Doreen Cronin (4-7) The Lorax, Dr. Seuss (4-6) Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day, Judith Viorst (4-9) Invisible Boy, Trudy Ludwig (5-9) Joyful Noise: Poems for Two Voices, Paul Fleischman (6-9) My Brother Charlie, Holly Robinson Peete and Ryan Elizabeth Peete (6-9)

Marisol McDonald Doesn’t Match/Marisol McDonald no combina, Monica Brown (3-6) Pinkalicious, Victoria Kann and Elizabeth Kann (3-6) I Want My Hat Back, Jon Klassen (3-6) Where the Sidewalk Ends, Shel Silverstein (3-7) The Secret Footprints, Julia Alvarez (3-8) Hello, Rock, Roger Bradfield (3-8) Two is Enough, Janna Matthies (3-8) Lowriders in Space, Cathy Camper (5-8) The Stories Julian Tells, Ann Cameron (5-9) Salsa Stories, Lulu Delacre (5-9) The Tale of Despereaux, Kate DiCamillo (6-9)

For more summer fun and games visit wedu.org/kids PBS KIDS and the PBS KIDS Logo are registered trademarks of Public Broadcasting Service. Used with permission.

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Presented By

Rubber Duck Race on the Hillsborough River August 18, 2018 | 10 AM - 12 PM | Curtis Hixon Park The Kiwanis Club of Tampa will be racing 10,000+ Rubber Ducks on the Hillsborough River to compete for cash prizes. First duck to cross the finish line will win $5,000 and all proceeds will benefit local children’s programs and charities here in Tampa. This free family event will feature games, food trucks, and fun for the whole family!

The Kiwanis Club of Tampa has been helping children in the local community since 1919.

Our enthusiastic members pursue creative ways to serve the needs of children in our community.

Locally, the Kiwanis Club of Tampa builds ramps for the disabled, hosts immunization events, purchases holiday gifts for kids in need, provides scholarships, works with leadership clubs in schools at the middle school, high school and college level, and we build reading rooms in Boys and Girls Clubs around Tampa. Additionally, our foundation provides grants to local non-profit organizations.

adopt a duck for $5 visit: www.TampaDuckRace.com JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 59

WHAT’S HAPPENING | TOP PICKS

July

a movie theater this summer with a couple of timeless films.

Spend Sundays catching up on the classics with “Gone With the Wind”, “Dr. Strangelove,” “A Fish Called Wanda,” “Safety Last!” and sing-a-long “Mary Poppins.” tampatheatre.org

DISNEY WORLD TOY STORY LAND June 30 There are so many exciting things happening at Walt Disney World, but the grand opening we've been waiting for happens June 30! That's when Toy Story Land will be unveiled at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

Your child can feel like he's been shrunk down to the size of a toy in Andy's backyard.

Expect new themed rides like Alien Swirling Saucers and a Slinky Dash roller coaster as well as amazing themed events throughout the day.

SEAWORLD’S ELECTRIC OCEAN July 1 – Sept. 22, various times Power up your evenings at SeaWorld’s Electric Ocean, the nighttime summer special included with regular admission.

With new dolphin and Shamu shows, and “Pop,” an avant-garde bubble-blowing bonanza, there’s fun for the whole family.

Stay late for “Ignite,” the fountain and firework show, or get your glow on with sea creature inspired DJ sets at Club Sea Glow. seaworld.com BRING IT! LIVE July 1, 7 p.m.

Lifetime’s reality dance show, “Bring it!” Live is back on tour and it’s bringing all its stars back to Tampa Bay for a third consecutive year. See the Dancing Dolls perform their hit routines live and in person at the Straz Center with a new tour this July. strazcenter.org TAMPA THEATRE’S SUMMER CLASSIC SERIES July 1, 8, 15, 22, 28 and 29, 3 p.m.

There’s no better way to escape the heat than to spend a few hours in the cool darkness of 60 TampaBayParenting.com | JULY 2018

“GREASE” AT THE DALI July 5, 7 – 11 p.m.

Commemorate the 40th anniversary of “Grease” with the Dali Museum’s Cult Classic Series. Bring a lawn chair or a blanket to hang with Danny and the gang on the big screen.

Feeling restless? Check out the food trucks and craft beers during the movie on the Avant-garden, or come early to experience the museums extended hours at reduced admission. thedali.org RODGERS + HAMMERSTEIN’S “CINDERELLA” July 5 – 8, various times From the musical creators of “Oklahoma!” and “The Sound of Music,” comes “Rodger + Hammerstein’s CINDERELLA” straight from Broadway.

The Tony Award®-winning show brings fantastical twists to the timeless fairy tale, with childhood favorites like “In My Own Little Corner” and “Ten Minutes Ago” that you’ll want to sing time and time again. strazcenter.org DUNEDIN ORANGE FESTIVAL July 7, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Enjoy Florida orange-themed fun with playtime in the fun zone, music, food and more for the whole family. dunedinorangefestival.com NIGHT IN THE ISLANDS July 7, 6 – 11 p.m.

Take a one-night trip to the

HAMILTUNES: AN AMERICAN SING-A-LONG July 28, 1 – 5 p.m.

Guests are encouraged to wear Hamilton-themed costumes at the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library for the interactive officially-sanctioned Hamiltunes sing-a-long. Children 10 and older are invited to sing along and participate in Hamilton-themed crafts. hcplc.org

Our favorite events and things to do for families in Tampa Bay!

islands at the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks. Come for food and stay for the music with an hour of authentic Greek dance lessons from the Levendia troupe. Reserve a table at Costa’s, Mama’s, Hella’s or Mykonos for the evening with music provided by Ellada. tarponarts.org KIDDING AROUND YOGA July 7 and 21, 10 - 11 a.m.

Participate in partner yoga designed for kids ages 3 and older at the Museum of Fine Arts. Price of admission is $5 and includes access to the MFA galleries. Bring your own mat or towel mfastpete.org THE FLORIDA HOLOCAUST MUSEUM July 12, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

It’s the perfect day for learning world history and teaching empathy for others at The Florida Holocaust Museum. Honor the museum’s 25 years in the community with free admission all day for families. flholocaustmuseum.org MAD THEATRE OF TAMPA PRESENTS “IT SHOULDA BEEN YOU” July 12 – 29, various times The Shimberg Playhouse invites audiences to the biggest wedding event of the summer with their performance of the musical “It Shoulda Been You.” This pleasantly witty play transports guests to the Howard-Steinberg wedding, an event overflowing with comical mishaps, family drama and unexpected lov strazcenter.org PATEL CONSERVATORY PRESENTS “HELLO, DOLLY!” July 12 – 29, various times Watch students from grades

nine to college perform the iconic songs and dance numbers of the Broadway musical smash hit “Hello, Dolly!” at TECO Theater. Set in New York City, the musical follows Dolly Gallagher-Levi as she makes comedic attempts at finding the perfect match for infamous half-millionaire Horace Vandergelder. strazcenter.org FLICK-N-FLOAT July 13, 7 p.m.

Float along with Moana and Maui at Largo Recreation’s Southwest Pool. Bring your inflatable floats or beach chairs to watch Moana (2016) from the pool. Food and drink vendors will be on hand along with lifeguard supervision. playlargo.com SAM SMITH July 13, 8 p.m.

See U.K. GRAMMY Award-winning artist Sam Smith promote his latest album “Thrill Of It All” at Amalie Arena. Ranked number 10 on Rolling Stone’s Best Albums of 2017 list, Smith’s album has sold over 12 million copies internationally. amaliearena.com

SPECIAL NEEDS EVENTS

For even more family fun, visit TampaBayParenting.com to see our full calendar!

“SCHOOL OF ROCK THE MUSICAL” July 13 and 14, various times Inspired by Jack Black’s blockbuster film, see the musical with original songs and new ones by Andrew Lloyd Webber.

Delight your senses while the children’s rock band plays live on stage at the Palladium. mypalladium.org

INTERACTIVE STORY TIME July 18, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Families participate in active story time at St. Pete’s Imagine Museum. Story time is led by either an author or education professional. imaginemuseum.com

THE FUN SHOW WITH CAT & NAT July 22, 7 p.m.

Known for the Youtube series #MOMTRUTHS and hilarious Facebook livestreams, mom’s Cat and Nat are bringing their viral act to the Straz Center. strazcenter.org

BEER PROJECT July 19 and 20, various times End the week with beer historians at St. Pete’s Museum of Fine Arts during their two-day Beer Project event. Whether you’re learning about how beer helped shape Ethiopia or about medieval drinking games, it’s sure to be a period of enlightenment. Vote on the best beers (day one) or delight in USF student creations crafted with local breweries like Green Bench Brewing Co. (day two). stpetemfa.org

DAVE MATTHEWS BAND July 25, 8 p.m.

Experience a night of music with the GRAMMY Award-winning Dave Matthews Band at the Midflorida Credit Union Amphitheatre. Hear over 20 years of hit tunes, plus new songs off their 2018 album “Come Tomorrow.” amphitheatretampa.com

HOP GUN BEERFEST July 21, 7 p.m.

Tampa’s top local breweries welcome guests with craft beers and brews at this year’s Hop Gun BeerFest. Attendees are encouraged to dress up as their favorite Top Gun characters, while appetizers and food tastings from area restaurants will be provided to “flight crew” landing at the historic movie palace. tampatheatre.org GILBERT & SULLIVAN TRIAL BY JURY July 21 – 29, various times Unwind with the Opera Tampa Singers as they perform "Trial

by Jury" and other Gilbert and Sullivan selections. strazcenter.org

JAMES MUSEUM FAMILY DAY July 14, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Make family day a trip to St. Pete’s newest museum! Come for story time in the gallery, an art workshop led by museum educators, special family tours, and more “Landscapes of the West” fun. thejamesmuseum.org SHARKCON July 14 and 15, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Spend a day at the fairgrounds celebrating ocean and wildlife conservation at SharkCon. This two-day event features touch tanks, a shark tooth sand dig, rides, slides--and even real mermaids! Bring a swimsuit if you are interested in the scuba diving experience or attend a shark dissection. shark-con.com

CREATIVE LOAFING’S MARGARITA WARS July 27, 7 – 10 p.m.

More than 15 local mixologists will battle it out at Creative Loafing’s Margarita Wars.

You determine the winner by making a well-informed vote for the margarita master of Tampa Bay. Indulge in Mexican-inspired snacks from Tampa Bay area restaurants and photo booths to document the fun. cltampa.org FUN FAMILY 5K AND POOL PARTY July 28, 8 a.m.

Plan a day of active family fun with this 5k at Highland Recreation. Participate in in the race with optional water obstacles, then cool down with a swim at the aquatic center. playlargo.com RASCAL FLATTS July 30, 7:30 p.m.

With over 10 million concert tickets sold in their career, Rascal Flatts is positioned to be the country concert musical event of the summer. See the seven-time Country Music Association award-winning trio perform live on their “Back to Us” tour. amphitheatretampa.com

TODDLER TUESDAYS AT ZOOTAMPA July 25, 10 a.m.

Zoo members are invited to Lowry Park for aquatic animal morning. Tots can participate in activities and story time, and hang out with the zoo’s most popular residents. zootampa.org

BOURBON, JAZZ AND HERB July 26, 6 – 8 p.m.

Jazz the night away with famed photographer Herb Snitzer and Friends of Photography while celebrating his exhibition, “Can I Get a Witness,” at the Museum of Fine Arts. Grab a bourbon drink and jam to live jazz from James Suggs and Friends. mfastpete.org

CHUCK E. CHEESE SENSORY SUNDAY July 1, 9 – 11 a.m.

Visit Brandon, Clearwater, St. Petersburg and Wesley Chapel locations the first Sunday of every month for a sensory-friendly experience. With reduced crowds and subdued music and lighting, the restaurant’s trained staff provides fun and games for the whole family. chuckecheese.com SKY ZONE SENSORY NIGHT July 5, 12, 19 and 26, 6 – 7:30 p.m.

Join the world’s first ever trampoline park for their new sensory nights every Thursday. Kids can learn new skills with softer music and fewer distractions, providing a safe environment for special needs families. Admission is $10 per jumper plus one-time purchase of reusable sky socks. skyzone.com SENSORY FRIENDLY SATURDAY AT ALTITUDE July 7 and 14, 9 – 10 a.m.

Participate with less crowds and the music down low during on these mornings at Altitude Trampoline Park. Altitude invites guests with special sensory needs to jump with them at reduced rates, and one accompanying parent jumps free. altitudetampa.com GREAT CONNECTIONS July 8, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

On the second Sunday of every month, Great Explorations opens its doors for two hours of sensory consideration for special needs children. With customized lighting and sounds, the museum also provides a “cool down” room to provide a comfortable experience for families. greatex.com PATEL CONSERVATORY PRESENTS “HELLO, DOLLY!” July 14, 2 p.m.

Both romantic and funny, “Hello, Dolly!” is great for everyone, including families with special needs who can attend the sensory-friendly show time to watch Dolly’s legendary matchmaking antics. strazcenter.org SUNSHINE SUNDAY AT GLAZER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM July 29, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The last Sunday of every month is ideal for special need families at the Glazer Children’s Museum. During this period, the museum provides sensory adaption tools, special programs and dialed-down lights and sounds for a safe and fun family experience. glazermuseum.org

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62 TampaBayParenting.com | JULY 2018

AROUND TOWN | WHAT’S HAPPENING

around town Eduardo Rosario speaks with Jeff Eakins before graduating from Wharton High School. Eduardo relocated to Tampa from Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria, and is one of the 11,000 students who graduated from Hillsborough County Public Schools.

YMCA offers mobile swim program

Students at Twin Lakes Elementary School show off some of the books they received thanks to a book drive held by Westchase Elementary School. Westchase students collected more than 3,000 books so Twin Lakes readers can keep reading and avoid the “summer slide.

Photos by Nick Seago

Chef Itza Henderson of ZooTampa with his son Isaiah at the grand opening celebration of Roaring Springs.

Ruth Eckerd Hall broke ground on the next phase of Expanding the Ruth Eckerd Hall experience! The major renovation will feature an all new grand lobby with stunning floor to ceiling windows, a two-story Dress Circle Member Lounge overlooking the grand lobby, new live music locations on The Holt Family Stage at The Kate Tiedemann and Ellen Cotton Cabaret Theatre and The England Family Welcome Pavilion, an expanded six-lane entry.

Eighth-grade graduates at Hillel Academy celebrate at the annual awards ceremony.

To help reach as many kids as possible, the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA partnered with the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County and others to offer a free mobile water safety program.

Certified instructors from the Tampa YMCA and Brandon Sports & Aquatic Center travel to pools located in 25 different apartment complexes and local neighborhoods to provide free 45-minute lessons in basic water safety and swim skills. Up to 24 children, ages 3-14, may participate in each one-week session from now until Aug. 9.

Tampa Bay Parenting's Creative Director, Laura Byrne, with contributor Anna Tataris De Jesus recently appeared on Great Day Live on WTSP to share summer travel tips.

JULY 2018 | TampaBayParenting.com 63

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