September 2017

tampabayparenting.com

SEPTEMBER 2017

at

Stress-free parties Best party spots No-gift trend SPECIAL SECTION

e

Le

t

ele b C r 's

HOW TO

Build successful parent-teacher relationships

5 ADVANTAGES of a K-8 school

CONSIGN LIKE A PRO EXPLORE

Great Explorations & Sunken Gardens

BABY SAFETY

10 ways to babyproof GUEST EDITOR Clara Reynolds

PRESIDENT & CEO Crisis Center of Tampa Bay

SOUTH TAMPA Edition

IS NOW OPEN ENTER YOUR KID TODAY!

N O E B L L I W O H W E E S O T E VOT !

R A E Y T X E N THE COVER Tampabayparenting.com/coverkids 2 TampaBayParenting.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

START PLAYING TODAY

Sometimes, the best way to conquer our fears is to view things in a different way. At St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, we give kids and parents new ways to look at going to the hospital, because when we understand the things that scare us, the monsters don’t seem so bad after all.

UnMonsters.org

SEPTEMBER 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 3

BC1605316-0916

Contents

PARTIES & CELEBRATIONS

SPECIAL SECTION

9 DIY CONFETTI POPPER 10 FUN PARTY PLACES Our favorite venues in Tampa Bay 12 NO GIFT TREND Charity over presents 13 PARTY LIKE A PRO Tips for a stress-free party

LIFE + HOME

14 GUEST EDITOR FEATURE Crisis Center of Tampa Bay’s 2-1-1 16 FAMILY TIME MANAGEMENT Help kids thrive 19 KIDS & MUSIC Rock 'n' Roll and brain power 20 LEGAL ADVICE Estate planning tips from Mastry Law 23 CONSIGNMENT TIPS Make that toy purge work for you

FOOD + DRINK

24 COOKIE DOUGH Dough Nation opening in Tampa

9 14

BEAUTY + STYLE

26 RUNWAY TRANSLATOR Tampa's fashion designers 29 WHAT’S IN YOUR BAG? With blogger Michelle Bremer

EDUCATION

38

32 PARENT-TEACHER RELATIONSHIPS Tips for success 37 YOUNG CHILD Celebrate the young child 38 COLLEGE GREATNESS A tot's road to college 41 K-8 SCHOOLS Corbett Prep shares 5 advantages of K-8 schools 42 EXTRAORDINARY KIDS Local students give back in big way

HEALTH + WELLNESS

44 GERMS! Kick-off the school year with healthy hygiene 47 ASK THE DOCTOR Beat the sleepy-time blues 48 BABY SAFETY 10 tips to babyproof your home

FAMILY FUN

52 EXPLORE MORE Discover Great Explorations & Sunken Gardens

WHAT'S HAPPENING

54 AROUND TOWN Pics from around Tampa Bay 56 TOP PICKS Our favorite September events

56 This month's Cover Kid winner is 3-year-old Hendrix Stracick.

Cover image by Darlene Barlows Photography

4 TampaBayParenting.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

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SEPTEMBER 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 5

Guest editor note

GUEST EDITOR

Clara Reynolds

CREATIVE DIRECTOR AND EDITORIAL MANAGER Laura Byrne

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Anu Varma Panchal

PARENTING You can do it, and you don't need to do it alone

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Sarah Stoulil

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Clara Reynolds Mike Mastry Anu Varma Panchal Ginain Grayes Karen Buckenheimer Tara Payor Jim Farrelly Bobbi Hopkins, M.D. Amy Hammond Alexanda Graham Michelle Bremer Anna Tataris DeJesus Karrie Mueller Merris Pope Gonzalez Laura Byrne

CALENDAR Chris Kuhn

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Ralf Gonzalez Craig Collins

LAYOUT & DESIGN

Page Four Creative

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Darlene Barlows Photography Theresa NeSmith Photography

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:

It can be tough being a parent! I’m sure I’m not telling you something you aren’t aware of, but I wanted to let you know that I understand what it’s like. Being a parent is one of the most wonderful, frustrating, exhilarating and terrifying journeys a person can experience.

I speak from personal experience. I’m Corey’s mom. He’s an amazing 14-yearold boy who just started his freshman year at Hillsborough High. Time has flown by, and we have experienced our fair share of highs and lows over the years. It seems just like yesterday when my husband, Steve, and I were bringing a newborn home from the hospital. Now we have a high school student in the house, and this is proving to be a brave new world for the entire family.

I also speak from professional experience as a social worker and nonprofit CEO who has helped thousands of kids and parents over the past 20 years.

I’ve sat in living rooms throughout our community, and consider it an honor to have worked with parents, grandparents and guardians to help them raise happy and healthy children.

There are numerous challenges that impact families in the Tampa Bay area. Regardless of income, creed or ethnic background, parents experience an assortment of obstacles. From developmental concerns to child care, from bullying to behavioral health issues, parents face uncertainty and stress on a daily basis.

For just over two years, I’ve served with the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay. I want to let you know that you don’t have to face the challenges of parenting alone. By calling “2-1-1” on your phone, you can speak to someone at the Crisis Center 24 hours a day. The staff in our Gateway Contact Center can provide immediate emotional support, and can also connect you to a range of community resources.

Have a great September!

CLARA REYNOLDS President & CEO Crisis Center of Tampa Bay Crisiscenter.com

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 | SEPTEMBER 2017

MORE WITH CLARA REYNOLDS on page 14

  

SEPTEMBER 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 7

PARTIES CELEBRATIONS SPECIAL SECTION

Fun party places pg. 10

No gift trend pg. 12

Stress-free parties

Image by Darlene Barlows Photography

pg. 13

8 TampaBayParenting.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

Parties & Celebrations

DIY CONFETTI POPPER WHAT YOU NEED: paper towel roll decorative paper clear packing tape balloons scissors paper confetti

1 2 3 4 5

Cut paper towel roll into three equal sections.

Tie the end of the balloon and trim off the very top.

Wrap balloon tightly around the bottom of paper towel section and tape the edges for a secure hold.

Cut decorative paper to the size of the roll and tape to secure.

Put confetti inside the ‘popper’ and pull down on balloon to create air pressure to send confetti flying into the air!

To store for later: cut a small square of tissue paper. Cover the top and secure with ribbon.

SEPTEMBER 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 9

Parties & Celebrations

fun PARTY

Searching for a unique venue to host your child’s next birthday party?

Check out some of our favorite places to party in Tampa Bay!

1

Glazer Children’s Museum

2

Great Explorations

3

Tampa Firefighters Museum

4

Dinosaur World

5

Largo Central Railroad

6

Busch Gardens

7

The Florida Aquarium

8

Clearwater Marine Aquarium

9

Captain Memo’s Original Pirate Cruise

10

Lowry Park Zoo

11

Game Time Tampa

12

Your local city or county park

10 TampaBayParenting.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

PLACES 13

Water Works Park

14

YMCA

15

Boing! Fun Center

16

Color Me Mine

17

Tampa Bay Skating Academy

18

Dunedin Fine Arts Center

19

Seal Swim School

20

Tampa Bay Turners

21

My Gym

22

Tampa Bay Lightning birthday party

23

Mary Jo's Performing Arts Academy

' I

Spring & Summer Camps Family Friendly Activities Birthday Parties Kid's Night Out 1609 W Snow Circle in Hyde Park Vtllage

813-258-8368

Tampa.ColorMeMine.com

SEPTEMBER 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 11

'

Parties & Celebrations

the "no gift"TREND Charity over presents “No gifts, please.” It’s a message we’re seeing pop up more frequently on birthday party invitations and we love it. It’s not that we don’t like showering the guest of honor with fun gifts and gadgets—we do—but, we also understand as parents that our kids simply have too much stuff. Enter the no-gift request.

While the no-gift trend is nothing new, it is a request more parents in the Tampa Bay Area are adopting by selecting a charity for guests to donate to in the name of the birthday child. Parents tell us they’ve had guests bring books, pet food and even cash to donate.

Some of our favorite ideas include the Child Life departments at local hospitals that often have a need for small, budget friendly items like PlayDoh and board games. Local pet shelters and the Humane Society are great options for little ones who love animals.

And, if your child is celebrating a first birthday, diapers and baby items for local mothers in need is a wonderful way to commemorate this birthday milestone.

If the no-gift option is something you’ve considered, get your child involved in selecting a charitable organization and contact that organization to see what their needs are. Your guests will love it and you’ll be teaching your child a valuable life lesson of empathy and charity.

12 TampaBayParenting.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

3 parents who made it work "We had such a great time packing all of the school supplies and essentials donated from all of Emma's friends for her birthday! Child Advocates in Texas was so excited to fill their closet with 22 backpacks stuffed with goodies for their Guardian Ad Litems to give out when their children needed them!"

Christina Galvan Thompson, Tampa

“For the past three years since my oldest turned 1, we have had birthday parties for my boys where we have collected dog treats, supplies and food for the Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center. We chose this place because we adopted one of our dogs from there and my kids are obsessed with their pets! So much so that my youngest son's first word was "dog!”

Sophie Steinberg, Tampa

“For our daughter's first birthday, we asked that guests please not bring her a present, but if they felt like they wanted to bring something, we suggested diapers for donation to the Alpha House. My children are fortunate to have many toys passed down to them from their cousins, but we also recognize that people feel "funny" showing up empty handed, which is how we came up with a diaper donation.”

Shannan Simmons, Tampa

Parties & Celebrations

party LIKE A PRO Tips for a stress-free celebration

By Karrie Mueller

There's nothing more rewarding than seeing your child's face light up with all of the fun and activities for their special day.

But for parents, the realities of party planning can be incredibly stressful (thanks, Pinterest!).

Here are five scenarios—and our helpful solutions to take the worry out of them.

STRESS #1: THE GUEST LIST How many kids do you invite? Do you invite the whole class? Just girls or boys? Family and close friends? Neighborhood friends? The task can be daunting.

Solution: Focus on inviting a smaller number of children or families.

While you don't want to exclude anyone, it's easier and more affordable

STRESS #4: GETTING EVERYTHING DONE

to create a great experience for 20 people than 60. Know your own limits,

Pulling all the details together for the party may seem like

but don't be afraid to focus on quality over quantity with respect to your

the hardest part.

Solution: Enlist or hire help. One of the biggest stress

guest list.

STRESS #2: CHILD'S EXPECTATIONS

relievers is having extra pairs of hands for everything from watching the kids to managing clean-up. Bringing in a

Meeting and exceeding your child's expectations can be the biggest

babysitter to watch younger children or a housekeeper to

source of party stress for parents. Kids can have some pretty exciting

help you with post-event clean-up can make the concept of

ideas about what they want and meeting all of those expectations can be a

event management easier to consider.

big source of anxiety.

Don’t be afraid to spend some of your budget on things like

Solution: Think about what your child loves and makes them happy at

a professional baker for your cake, themed decorations or

that very moment. When I was planning my (then) 2-year-old’s party, she

favors from Etsy or food platters from your local grocery.

loved ball pits and balloons, so those became the main activities for her

By leaving certain things to the professionals, you will save

event. If your child is old enough to help plan, engage them in the process

your time and effort for everything else.

and discuss what kind of party they would like to have.

STRESS #3: PLANNING ALL THE DETAILS

STRESS #5: PREPARING YOUR HOME One of the biggest challenges is getting your home into top

Determining how to pull everything together can cause a lot of anxiety.

shape, only to have kids tear it apart again. Cleaning, or-

Many parents are stuck wondering what to do about a cake, decorations

ganizing and making sure your yard is ready can

and entertainment.

take you (or your hubby) hours of work.

Solution: Pick a theme. Once you address a theme, everything else will

Solution: Have the party some-

fall into place. For instance, if your son wants a pirate party, you may

where else. It might be a bit more

PRO TIP:

want to have a treasure map invitation, a pirate ship cake and a scavenger

expensive, but at the end of the

Keep in mind that when selecting a

hunt to search for treasure, or, if your child prefers a princess theme,

event you're done. If you choose

venue to host your child's party, you

have all the little girls dress up, give out tiaras and hire a professional

the right venue, they even have

should call a few months in advance

party princess.

staff responsible for handling

as they can book up quickly. Be sure

When my daughter turned 2, she loved Mickey Mouse, so we chose that as

the clean-up part.

to ask what’s included in their party

the theme for her party. Once that was set, the décor, menu, desserts and

packages and what you can and

favors were easy to plan around that theme. The key to making the theme

cannot bring from outside.

a success is to fully commit.

Celebrating your child’s next birthday doesn't have to be a source of stress. Focus on your child, worry less about what other people think, get help when you need it, and simplify where you can. If you and your child are having a good time and celebrating this day, your guests will have a great time, too.

KARRIE MUELLER is owner of Parties with Character-Tampa Princess Parties.

SEPTEMBER 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 13

Life + Home | Guest Editor Feature

Crisis Center of Tampa Bay CONNECT TO 2-1-1 FOR HELP

By Clara Reynolds

The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay doesn’t strictly define the term “crisis.” Each person’s struggle and circumstances are unique. The important thing to remember is that you don’t have to face your crisis alone. Help is just a phone call away. Just grab your phone and dial “2-1-1.”

WHAT IS 2-1-1?

In the same way 9-1-1 connects you to emergency police, fire and medical services, 2-1-1 is an easy-to14 TampaBayParenting.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

remember phone number that connects you to information regarding health, human and social service organizations in the community. Years ago, the Federal Communications Commission approved 2-1-1 for nationwide use as an abbreviated, quick-access number. You can call 2-1-1 in most counties in the United States and every county in Florida. The number is answered by local non-profit organizations.

In Hillsborough County, 2-1-1 is answered 24 hours a day at the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay’s Gateway Contact Center. 2-1-1 provides an answer to the question

of “I need help. I’m overwhelmed.

Where do I go?”

At the Crisis Center, calls are answered by highly trained Intervention Specialists. These caring individuals listen to the specific problems of each caller and ask questions so they can have a comprehensive understanding of the caller’s situation. They have a database with over 4,000 non-profit organizations and government programs at their fingertips, and the information is continuously updated at the Crisis Center.

Some examples of situations where someone might find help through 2-1-1 include:

• • •

“My child is 18 months old and isn’t walking yet. How can I find out if they are ok?”

“I’m working two jobs and can’t afford child care. Is help available?”

“My second grader is being bullied at school. What can I do?”

EMOTIONAL SUPPORT

The Crisis Center’s Intervention Specialists do more than just provide information and referral help. Specialists can provide emotional support to callers and are trained to help people who indicate they are considering taking their life. In these situations, the Specialist has an in-depth and candid conversation with the caller and will talk with them until they’re safe.

Additional support is available in these extreme circumstances.

People who have a conversation pertaining to suicide can opt into our Care Coordination program where a Crisis Center staff member will make follow-up calls over a number of weeks. The Care Coordinator helps implement a safety plan that encourages positive activities, beneficial relationships and connection to mental health resources.

NOT JUST 2-1-1!

2-1-1 isn’t the only “hotline” answered in the Gateway Contact Center. The Crisis Center also answers local calls from the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK); the Florida Veterans Support Line (1-877-MYFLVET), which provides peer support to veterans in a five-county area; statewide calls from the Florida Substance Abuse Hotline (1-800-662-HELP); and the Child Development Infoline (813425-GROW), which is funded by the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County.

GOING BEYOND THE PHONE CALL

The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay connects people to resources throughout the community. This is why the organization is the community’s “gateway” to help, hope and healing. However, the Gateway Contact Center is just one of many services operated by the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay. Corbett Trauma Center is the Crisis Center’s trauma therapy division. Children and adults impacted by severe emotional trauma can come to one of the Crisis Center’s three locations in Hillsborough County for counseling sessions with a therapist. Corbett Trauma Center also houses Hillsborough County’s rape

crisis center, which does forensic medical exams and provides victim advocacy services to sexual assault survivors.

TransCare Medical Transportation has served the community since 1986. TransCare’s vehicles respond to 9-1-1 emergency medical calls in Tampa and also provide Baker Act mental health transportation and Marchman Act substance abuse transports in Hillsborough County. In addition, TransCare’s ambulances and medical vans provide non-emergency wheelchair transport and facility-to-facility medical transportation throughout the county.

CLARA REYNOLDS is President and CEO of the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay.

If you or someone you know are ever in a crisis, just remember 2-1-1.

Learn more about our work in the community. We invite you to take a tour of our facility. Tour dates and more information about the organization can be found at CrisisCenter.com.

SEPTEMBER 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 15

Life + Home | Help Kids Thrive

help kids

Lessons on molding & managing time

By Dr. Tara Payor

Like the start of the new calendar year, the commencement of the academic year is an opportunity to set goals and revise habits.

Amidst the chaos of school supply shopping, it is important we step back into an academic mindset and focus on helping our children thrive.

Year after year, in conversations with students, parents and education colleagues, time management reveals itself as something people want to improve. I have learned to acknowledge that time is not on my side. Time is in my hands, and it is my responsibility to mold her wisely. It’s an important perspective for children to internalize, and it has proven essential to our family’s time management success.

Here are some time management practices our family has found helpful and some apps that might keep those feelings of “I’m late, I’m late, for a very important date” at bay.

16 TampaBayParenting.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

SCHEDULING FOR SUCCESS

During the early stages of working on my Ph.D., a mentor encouraged me to protect my writing time by putting it on the calendar like I would any other meeting. This nugget of wisdom proved important, and I learned its applicability to family life. Our oldest child is a rising kindergartener, but even pre-school students have homework and need time to practice the concepts and skills they learn in school. With an active toddler in the house, and a spouse with erratic work hours, I found myself at a loss for time to sit and focus on academics with our preschooler. If I couldn’t find time for a weekly homework assignment, how were the next 13 school years going to work? As an educator, I felt ridiculous for being incompetent with our daughter’s academic time.

Enter shared calendars. Logistically, our family relies on calendar sharing. All professional commitments, social and extracurricular events, and health and wellness appointments are typed in and shared. In real time, we see our family’s

schedule evolve. It finally dawned on me that, given our reliance on shared iCals, I should schedule protected, academic time for our daughter. I sat down, looked at the big, monthly picture, and then the smaller, weekly ones, and scheduled academic time. Since a challenge in our family was keeping the toddler entertained (read, safe) while working with the preschooler, I needed to find weekly, 30-minute periods when (a) the toddler could be cared for and (b) our daughter would be as mentally fresh as possible.

Considering when those sweet spots of mental fresh-

ness occur takes thought; but, investing the up-front time to consider your unique constellation of factors minimizes future frustration and supports productive academic time. Formally scheduling the time also creates accountability.

MINDFUL MULTITASKING

While sustained periods of protected academic time are essential, it’s also important to recognize the need to multitask.

We need to teach our children how to effectively multitask so that it is not a haphazard, scatterbrained endeavor. First, a few important points. 1. Children need to learn that, sometimes, it’s important and necessary to simply sit and wait. 2. Children need to feel that, sometimes, it’s important and necessary to simply sit and be. 3. In teaching time management and multitasking, we must ensure we don’t create an undercurrent of anxiety.

From a young age, my parents taught me to turn idle time on

its head and use pockets of time wisely. While waiting for ballet to begin, I learned to complete assigned reading. My disciplined relationship with time is now evident in my work ethic and how I introduce Father Time to my children.

Keeping a collapsible cube in my car has helped multitasking efforts. It’s stocked with a variety of writing utensils and papers, allowing us to stuff pockets of time with productivity. Smart phones and tablets also help us multitask. While a sibling is in an extracurricular lesson, educational apps can support learning. Accounting for realistic expectations regarding how long a preschooler can remain calm and focused on academics, these spaces of time worked. For us, they proved ideal for working on speech with Articulation Station.

I am confident that teaching our children to have productive relationships with time, and thoughtfully multitask, will help them thrive through their academic years and beyond.

TECH AND ORGANIZATION TIPS

RELATIONSHIPS FIRST

As parents we are, undeniably, our child’s first and most important teachers. Still, the dynamic differs from the one they share with a classroom teacher. When my daughter and I sit to practice sight words, she doesn’t care that I have a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction. I’m just mom.

And while we don’t stop the first time she shows frustration, as I’m also committed to teaching tenacity, there are times when, after 15 minutes, I’ve had to recognize that stopping is a better choice than stressing. We all have our moments and, as the parent-teacher, I need to respond and adapt appropriately. To, too and two can wait. The expectations set for academic time with our kids must be individualized, realistic and malleable.

Holding to the perspective that time is in our hands, let this academic year be one during which we show our children, through example and direct instruction, how to shape time so that we can accomplish our goals and still have much needed spaces of time for play.

Tech tips for time management

· Learn how to share your iCal Create different labels and color codes for added organization · Cozi is a free app to support family time management · Sites to support family time management: Famjama (free); Two Happy Homes (suggested donation)

Organization ideas that support time management

· Keep an expandable folder for each child »Use individual, labeled filed folders within it »Keep in easily accessible space to promote use · Wipe-erase calendar that you can update as a family · Use butcher paper to create monthly calendars »Incorporate stickers »Create countdowns to help children understand concept of time · Have family members share notes across Apple devices

DR. TARA PAYOR is a teacher educator. She works with student teachers from USF’s College of Education who are completing their final internship. As a faculty member for Walden University’s College of Education, she guides doctoral students through the dissertation process. Reach her at tpayor@gmail.com.

SEPTEMBER 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 17

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Kids & Music | Life + Home

and brain power

Most parents are aware that young children enjoy many benefits when they experience music. Music lessons benefit older kids and teens by giving them ways to express themselves and the freedom to be who they want to be.

Students who have a consistent level of music involvement over the middle and high school years also show a higher proficiency in math.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY MAKES A GREAT MUSIC STUDIO EXPERIENCE?

We sat down with local music studio owner

quickly realize this is a special place where

Jim Chambers of the Jim Chambers Music

real musicians come to learn. Students quickly

Box to get his take on what music does for the

become acclimated with friendly staff and

students he sees. Jim Chambers Music Box is

funky, family-friendly vibe. I have witnessed

into music education: 1. Instruction. 2. Fun.

a performance-based music academy based

a boosted confidence in my students. They are

3. Practice. 4. Performance. When we find the

in Tampa. THE BOX, as it is known, has been

challenged to work hard and to learn their in-

right balance of these four elements--the sky is

nominated for Creative Loafing’s Best of the

strument. But I notice smaller things, like im-

the limit. When you are considering a studio for

Bay, Best Music School award for 2017. Cham-

proved coordination as their experience builds.

your child, these are the things I encourage you

bers, who has three Grammys to his credit for

We work with a wide range, from preschoolers

to seek out. Many studies have been done of

his work with Maroon 5 and Loudon Wain-

to adults. THE BOX also sees great results with

late which factually correlate music education

wright III, opened THE BOX three years ago.

many students living with autism.

benefitting cognitive, social and reading skills.

He quickly realized that teaching young people the joys of music involved the same passion and inspiration as promoting and marketing global recording acts.

THE BOX incorporates four main themes

I see this every day in my studio. Young people

YOU OFTEN SAY, “MUSIC MAKES THE WORLD GO ROUND, AND WE HELP PUSH” TO STUDENTS. WHAT DOES THIS MEAN TO YOU?

actively pursuing learning—it’s magic.

Learn more at jcmusicbox.com

We are surrounded by music in our environ-

HOW DO YOU THINK MUSIC LESSONS AFFECTS THE KIDS THAT COME IN YOUR DOOR?

ment every day. The coffee shop, the elevator, our cars. Everywhere. I think music surrounds

I often say that a music academy is only as

us specifically to ease the everyday stressors of

good as its instructors. The instructor really

living on Earth. Metaphorically speaking--mu-

sets the tone for your child’s experience. We

sic helps push all of us to persevere to reach our

try and establish a rapport with students the

goals. Music is a universal language. I believe

minute we meet them. Having fun is key to

it strengthens relationships. Teaching music

connecting with young people. Our instructors

is a privilege. When we sit with our students

Instructor Jake Lopez and drum student Luca, 7 play

are vetted, continually educated, trained and

and teach them a topic as exciting and vital as

during a recent lesson at THE BOX.

awesome.

music, it requires discipline not to inundate

When students first come to my studio, they

them with our exuberance.

SEPTEMBER 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 19

Life & Home | Legal Advice

SPONSORED

Do You Know What Would Happen To Your Kids If Something Happened to You?

This Story Will Break Your Heart

The answer may surprise you…

In 2006 Casey and Melanie Barber were on a summer vacation with their three children when their van blew a tire and spun out of control, resulting in a horrifying accident that left Casey and Melanie dead. Miraculously, all three of their boys survived the accident.

In the aftermath of the accident there was confusion among family members concerning who would care for the children.

Because the Barbers left no clear instructions, this confusion

ultimately resulted in a court battle over custody of the boys (and their inheritance) that lasted for more than a year, involved no less that nine different attorneys and cost hundreds of thousands of dollars in attorney and court time.

In the end, the court appointed a legal guardian who may or may not have been the person who Casey and Melanie would have wanted to raise their children. We’ll never know because they never made their wishes known.

It Doesn’t Have to Be That Way for Your Family…

Like many parents with minor children at home, the Barbers didn’t take the time to put a plan together that would have protected their children after their accident. “Many parents have so many questions about estate planning and feel so overwhelmed by the thought of their children being raised without them that they procrastinate and do nothing at all,” says St. Petersburg attorney, Mike Mastry. He adds, “I know how it feels. I’m a dad too.”

“The most important thing that any parent can do is name a guardian for their children,” explains Mastry. “Most people don’t realize that if you don’t legally name a guardian to raise your children, then the courts will do it for you; and they may not choose the person that you would have wanted.”

system. Getting information about the basics of a good estate plan is the first step. The second step is to speak to an estate planning attorney about your unique family dynamic and your specific goals questions, offer advice for how to best provide for your children, and craft a plan that meets your needs.

With a good attorney, the process of estate planning shouldn't be intimidating, difficult or even time consuming. It should however be a fundamental requirement for every parent.

Every loving parent understands the need to have a plan in place should something happen to them. Unfortunately, there is a lot of misunderstanding surrounding wills, trusts, and the court

Attorney Mike Mastry is committed to preserving the legacy of individuals and families as a lawyer focusing on Estate Planning Law. He is also a dedicated father and husband, an accomplished woodworker, and a third-generation fisherman who grew up on Florida's Gulf Coast.

Are You Living with A False Sense of Security?

A Parent’s Lack of Knowledge and Misunderstanding About Estate Plans and Wills Can End Up Hurting Their Children

In this free report, A Parent’s Guide to Protecting Your Children Through Estate Planning, we reveal the most frequently asked questions that we hear from parents of minor children, and the questions that parents should be asking to best protect their children. In this report, you will discover: • The legal documents that every parent must have to best protect their children; • Important documents that most estate planning attorneys rarely discuss with their clients; • How to choose the right guardian for your children; and • As a bonus, we show you how to choose the right estate planning attorney for families who have children at home.

Take the first step toward insuring that your children will be taken care of, no matter what happens to you.

Download your free copy of A Parent’s Guide to Protecting Your Children Through Estate Planning at www.MastryLawParentsGuide.com

20 TampaBayParenting.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

A Parent’s Guide to Protecting Your Children Through Estate Planning is a must-have resource for every parent.

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Consignment Tips | Life + Home

make that toy purge workfor you Tips to consign your kids stuff

By Alexandra Graham

Kids are back to school so now is the perfect time to do a fall purge! Since the kids are in school, you can make some money by using a consignment store to sell your kid’s clothing and toys, and do an early fall cleaning the before the holidays arrive.

Step 1 Try to do a toy and clothing purge with the kids out of the house. If they are in school, then it’s the perfect time to do it. If not, then send them out with a family member for a couple of hours while you purge the toys. Then, load the cast-off toys into the car and drive straight to the consignment store because if the kids see the toys, they will want them back even if they haven’t played with them for six months or so.

They don’t really care about the clothing as much, but sometimes it’s easier to do it while they are not there.

If this strategy isn’t your cup of tea, then have the kids help on the weekend. I get the kids to buy into the idea that we need to make room for back to school clothing and before they know it, toys from Santa and family! The kids could even go with you to the consignment shop to open up an account – it could turn into a great lesson about earning and saving money.

Step 2 Take inventory of what your kids really play with. The years of 2-4 are a big jump developmentally and that means for toys too; what they played with when they are 2 needs to go if they are 4 now. If getting rid of old toys is a little too sentimental for mommy (this was my issue) maybe put the husband on this project. Remind him you are taking the toys to the consignment store to earn money. Cha-Ching!

Step 3

Step 5 Check with your local consignment shop because they tend

When taking the toys to the consignment store, make sure you have

to have different rules and policies. For instance, some shops

all the pieces and the toy works. If the toy has been kept outside or on a

don’t accept stuffed animals, puzzles over 100 pieces, or elec-

porch, take a moment to wipe it down with a cleaning wipe. Remember

tronic items greater than 5 years old. Also confirm when they

the better the clothing and toys look, the more money you will make,

accept items and what they are currently looking for.

so giving the toy and clothing a little extra TLC before dropping them off can increase your profit.

Step 4 During the purge, make a box for charity so you can make this drop

This little bit of work at home will make your consignment experience very pleasurable

off at the same time. There are so many local charities that accept toys.

and can make you some

You can have the little ones help you pick one out.

extra cash this fall!

ALEXANDRA GRAHAM is the owner of children’s resale and consignment store, Reruns 4 Little Ones (8802 Rocky Creek Dr., Tampa, FL) and mother of two little ones.

SEPTEMBER 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 23

Food & Drink | Cookie Dough

Dough

Nation

Cookie dough and charity combine in the sweetest way

By Laura Byrne

It’s a perfect play on words, and the new restaurant concept from Metropolitan Ministries’ Inside the Box Café is about to make downtown Tampa a whole lot sweeter.

Dough Nation, the edible cookie dough and ice-cream shop, will open mid-September in the same location where Metropolitan Ministries’ Inside the Box Cafe was once

24 TampaBayParenting.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

located at 505 N. Tampa St. Just like Inside the Box Cafe and Catering, (which will move to the new Armature Works in Tampa), Dough Nation will provide training to students in the Metropolitan Ministries culinary program who are transitioning out of homelessness. The program has graduated more than 150 students in the last four years; many of who now work at some of the area’s best restaurants.

All of the proceeds from Inside the Box, and soon Dough Nation, go back into the nonprofit’s programs. It doesn’t get any sweeter than that!

“It’s creating jobs, it’s training students, and it’s producing income to go back to our programs,” explains Cliff Barsi, a force behind Dough Nation and the senior director of food service and social enterprise at Metropolitan Ministries.

“We get a lot of credit for our food being good and all that, but I tell people our programs at Metro are ten times better than our food. They are really changing people’s lives and helping drive them toward selfsufficiency.”

Barsi spent several months perfecting the right balance of ingredients, including heattreated flour and pasteurized eggs, that make the raw dough safe to consume. He’s since developed several flavors: chocolate chip, dark chocolate, s’mores and more.

What’s even more unique about the Dough Nation recipe is that you’ll actually be able to bake the edible dough if you choose to do so.

Dough Nation will also serve ice-cream, milkshakes and baked cookies with even more surprises in store down the road.

Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats

Pig Jig Market

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2017 LIVE MUSIC LINEUP Co-Headliners Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats and Justin Moore Stoplight Observations and more!

SPONSORSHIP INFORMATION Since 2011, over $2,000,000 has been raised with all proceeds benefitting NephCure. Please contact us at TampaPigJig@gmail.com to learn more about sponsoring the event.

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Beauty + Style | Runway Translator

Tampa's

Fashion Designers

PHOTOS BY THERESA NESMITH PHOTOGRAPHY

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 26 TampaBayParenting.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

Just in time for Fashion Week Tampa Bay, two natives fill us in on the secrets of their style.

Melissa Dolce

Elizabeth Carson Racker

It’s not every day one gets to sit down and chat with a rock star of fashion design, so when given the opportunity to pick the brains of TWO talented local legends, this fashion stylist was elated. With Fashion Week Tampa Bay right around the corner, I was lucky to pull these two away from their creative processes for just long enough to get a few pics and learn a little bit about who they are and what they do.

Highly influenced by her extensive background as a Creative Director of graphic design, Melissa Dolce creates conceptual clothing. If you’ve attended a wearable art show here in Tampa Bay in the last several years you’ve probably seen the inventive designs she’s shown at Dunedin Wearable Art Show, St. Pete Art & Fashion Week, Cocktails & Couture and many of her own events. Her collections are always completely over the top and based on a specific idea—think circus performers, or artistic masterpieces, or seasons. She enjoys watching the reaction of audience members when they see her collections for the first time. Her label, Dolce Couture, is currently undergoing a transition in direction.

While she continues to be inspired by the art of fashion, Dolce plans to challenge herself to create pieces that are more marketable to consumers. This will be her first time showing a collection at Fashion Week Tampa Bay and she’s very excited. What can we expect to see from Dolce Couture? Show-stoppers for women to wear to special events, of course.

This Tampa native is on a mission to elevate the fashion scene here in the Bay Area. A graduate of Savannah College of Art and Design, Elizabeth has travelled all over the United States showing her designs. Her pieces have graced the runways of New York Fashion Week and been featured in the Ebony Fashion Fair, one of the numerous prestigious shows (including Fashion Week Tampa Bay!) in which she’s participated. Racker is deeply rooted in Tampa (her brick-and-mortar retail store is on North Florida Avenue) and loves the culture. We both agreed that the local fashion scene could use some more love from investors, but the growth, while slow, is very exciting and well worth the wait.

I have been a fan of her work since I first laid eyes on the collection she showed at the 2013 Tampa Bay Fashion Week. She has a gift for draping fabric in a way that flatters the shape of a woman’s body and her eye for detail is impeccable. What’s in store for us at this year’s runway show? Aside from sharing hints about influences of African royalty, she was not quite ready to share details. I’m looking forward to seeing what she comes up with this year.

THERESA NESMITH, a wife and mom to three, owns Theresa NeSmith Photography. She specializes in women and family portraits, capturing the essence of her clients. She shoots on location and in her natural light studio in Tampa. 813-469-4021 theresanesmithphotography.com SEPTEMBER 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 27

Save Dates #TBFW #FWTB #TBFASHIONWEEK #FASHIONISASTORY

Visit

28 TampaBayParenting.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

FashionWeekTampaBay.com to see participating designers, event schedule, ticket information, and more!

What’s In Your Bag? | Beauty + Style

I am a huge fan of crossbody handbags. I’m always on the go and, as a fashion stylist and blogger, I need to have my hands free for shopping, pulling product and taking photos. My favorite bag right now is this Tory Burch striped number, which was a gift from my aunt. I love how it goes with everything and I get compliments everywhere I go. It’s just the right size for carrying my necessities!

PHONE WITH POP SOCKET Perfect for taking selfies! My phone is like an appendage and I can practically run my business on this one.

WALLET TIN FROM PARIS This holds my credit cards and was a gift from Deborah Skyrms, owner of Deborah Kent’s Boutique. She brought it back for me from one of her buying trips in Paris and I’ve had it for over 10 years now.

RUNWAY TRANSLATOR BUSINESS CARDS AND FELT CASE FROM MOO Isn’t this the cutest? I never leave home without my business cards and I love how I can push one out with my thumb in this handy felt case.

ARBONNE MASCARA AND LOTUS LIPSTICK I’ve been using Arbonne for many years and I am obsessed with their mascara and this shade of lipstick called ‘Lotus’. It’s really all I need on my

What's in your bag?

MICHELLE BREMER of RunwayTranslator.com with blogger

face to feel put together.

READERS AND CASE FROM TARGET Makes me feel old, but I recently bought my first pair of reading glasses. I found this cute pair at Target and I like the pink and green color combo.

HINT MINTS FROM SILLY DILLY My kids saw these at Silly Dilly Tot Spot while we were there pulling product for a shoot and they just had to have them. They ended up in my purse and they’re so good I won’t give them back.

Fresh breath is a must!

SEPTEMBER 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 29

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CELEBRATE FALL

Celebrate the season in Hyde Park Village during Fall Fest Sept. 29 from 4–8 p.m.

SOUTH TAMPA EDITION

celebrate

fall

Hyde Park Village’s wildly popular pumpkin patch opens on SEPT. 29 DURING THE ANNUAL FALL FESTIVAL FROM 4 - 8 P.M. The family-friendly event will benefit High Risk Hope, a local non-profit that provides support for pregnant mothers on bed rest and families of premature babies in the NICU. A portion of the proceeds from food vendors will go toward High Risk Hope. Be sure to make a toast to the fall season because all proceeds from beer truck sales will be donated to HRH! Cheers to that!

Also expect pumpkin carving contests, games and giveaways, treats and plenty more. We hope to see you there!

Fall Festival in Hyde Park Village

Learn more about High Risk Hope: HighRiskHope.org

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LET'S PARTY!

South Tampa's best places to celebrate

By Merris Pope, founding managing editor of Hulafrog-South Tampa

If that special day is coming soon, or even if it's not, you'll want to check out these fab venues and party entertainers around South Tampa for your child's next birthday. These local birthday experts know what it takes to make a party rock.

They'll be sure to make your birthday boy or girl feel “Oh So Special” and have tons

1 All that Glitters PRINCESS, POP DIVA AND TEA PARTIES

2 YMCA 3 Ms. Lisa’s DANCE PARTIES 4 Color Me Mine Pottery 5 Playgrounds BOUNCE HOUSE PARTIES 6 GameTime 7 Glazer Children’s Museum 8 Gymboree 9 Pinarama BOWLING PARTIES 10 School of Rock MUSIC PARTIES

of fun. Some of our tried and true favorites are Ms. Lisa’s Dance parties (perfect for your tiny dancer!), YMCA, The Bryan Glazer Family JCC for fantastic all-inclusive swim parties and Yellow Bird Studio birthday parties for the creative kiddos who love art!

11 The Enchanted Spot at Silly Dilly’s 12 The Florida Aquarium 13 The Prep South Tampa SPORTS, TOTALLY ART AND GYMNASTICS PARTIES

14 Parties with Character PRINCESS PARTIES 15 Tampa Firefighter Museum FIREFIGHTER THEMED PARTY

16 Lowry Park Zoo 17 Let them Eat Cake COOKING PARTIES 18 Silly Sam the Music Man MUSIC PARTIES 19 Yellow Bird Studio ART PARTIES 20 Bryan Glazer Family JCC SWIM PARTIES

MERRIS POPE is the founding managing editor of Hulafrog South Tampa, a community guide that provides a daily list of activities, weekend events, local classes, camps and more! Proud mom to Avery, 6 and Miles, 3.

SOUTH TAMPA EDITION

FOLLOW Hula Frog-South Tampa at hulafrog.com/south-tampa-fl to find more Hula Frog Hot Lists.

SUBSCRIBE to their newsletter and discover more family-friendly events and activities in South Tampa!

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BACK TO FOOTBALL!

Sept. 2, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Kick off football season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Glazer Children’s Museum in Tampa. Enjoy football-themed activities with special guests. glazermuseum.org Everyone

FRESH MARKET AT HYDE PARK VILLAGE Sept. 3, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Shop locally produced foods and handcrafted items at this monthly South Tampa outdoor market. Browse nearby stores while listening to live music and try one of the many neighborhood restaurants for lunch.

Admission and parking are free. Leashed dogs are welcome. hydeparkvillage.com Everyone

ART SPOT AT THE TAMPA MUSEUM OF ART Sept. 3, 10, 17, 24, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Be sure to attend at least one Art Spot event this month at the Museum’s Golding-Scher Classroom for the free drop-in program that allows you and your children to create art projects inspired by the artwork on display in the museum. Every week is different, so try to attend them all if you can! Learn more at tampamuseum.org.

SCIENCE SATURDAYS AT JAN KAMINIS PLATT LIBRARY Sept. 9, 10:30 - 11:15 a.m.

Learn about the migrations of animals like birds and crabs at learning stations. This event is funded by the Friends of the Jan Platt Library. It is recommended for families with children in K-5.

TEA FOR TOTS AT OXFORD EXCHANGE Sept. 24 at 2 p.m.

Enjoy a spot of tea and afternoon of storytelling with a reading of "Mary Poppins Up, Up and Away" by Hélène Druvert. Tickets are $18 per adult and $10 per child.

Ticket includes tea and light fare. Books can be purchased separately. Learn more at oxfordexchange.com.

FALL FESTIVAL AT HYDE PARK VILLAGE Sept. 29, 4 - 8 p.m.

Don’t miss this annual Fall Festival benefiting High Risk Hope which also kicks off the month-long Pumpkin Patch in the Village. There will be music, beer and food trucks, games and more!

Learn more at hydeparkvillage.com.

SOUTH TAMPA EDITION

SEPTEMBER 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 31

Education | Parent-Teacher Relationships

Communication and respect should be reciprocal, so reading and promptly responding to items sent home are key. Making checking kids’ folders a daily habit models interest and responsibility—components of relationship success.

Relinquishing control of our children to others can be difficult but, even when we disagree with a teacher’s approach, we must speak about the teacher positively and communicate with the teacher before going to administration. Cohen’s point that if we “keep things positive teachers will look for positives as well” is one to keep at the forefront as we intentionally nourish the parent-teacher relationship.

FRAMING FOR CONTINUED SUCCESS As our children grow, the parent-teacher relationship remains important. Still, we must encourage students to speak to teachers independently.

Mari Uscategui, a veteran middle school teacher,

Parent-teacher relationships Tips for success

finds that parents often make initial contact when they perceive their child’s needs aren’t met.

Too often, this communication comes too late in the semester. Since a parent-teacher relationship focused on student success requires joint effort, Uscategui sets things in motion by having parents fill out a confidential questionnaire about their child. “Students never read it, and parents tell me what their child’s strengths are, what they are still working on and what they would like to see from their child that year,” she says. The last question proves most insightful. “I ask them what they hope

By Dr. Tara Payor

LAYING THE FOUNDATION

As parents, it can be challenging to accept that our children will go off to school and form relationships with other adults. Other adults will encourage, console and guide them. Relationships with non-parental adults, like teachers, are important ones for us to intentionally forge and nurture. Then, as a teacher-student-parent team, we can support student success.

academic success begins during the

uncover. Uscategui believes that when parents

early-childhood-education years and

openly and honestly communicate with teachers,

open dialogue is key. Barbara Cohen, a

they send the message that they are invested (a)

seasoned early childhood teacher, en-

in their child’s education and (b) in nurturing the

courages parents to attend parent-teacher

parent-teacher partnership.

Building scaffolding for our child’s

UNDERSTANDING SUCCESS

I will see in their child.” Responses reveal valuable information that could otherwise take weeks to

conferences and arrive prepared with two items for discussion. She highlights the importance of framing conversations with

Keys for success

positive points: “I’m so glad Harlow is

• While communication is paramount, remember that teach-

making friends at school. Are there partic-

ers’ primary responsibility during the day is teaching.

ular children she’s bonding with and how

Allow 24-48 hours for a response.

can I help her foster friendships outside of

• Teachers don’t necessarily have instant solutions. Col-

context of our children’s academics, we can agree on

school?” Cohen notes that it’s a good idea

laborate to create plans of action suited for your child’s needs.

understanding success as their engaging in mean-

to ask teachers their preferred method

• Be pro-active in offering to volunteer in the classroom,

ingful subject matter learning that builds flexible,

of communication. Also, in addition to

especially if it’s a unit you are particularly connected to.

in-depth knowledge while simultaneously supporting

sharing information about your child’s

• Teachers respect the need for privacy. When there is a

social and emotional development. I have yet to meet

specific strengths and interests, giving

significant event in the home life, it can be helpful to alert the

a student who does not want success. The teacher-stu-

the teacher some affirmation goes a long

teacher and trust that s/he will respond appropriately and

dent-parent team can enable student success by keep-

way. “Validating what a teacher is trying

professionally.

ing lines of communication open, setting realistic

to accomplish and sharing how children

goals and having a sense of accountability.

connect school learning with home

While our visions of success may vary, in the

experiences is so affirming,” Cohen says.

32 TampaBayParenting.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

SEPTEMBER 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 33

, Seal Swim School s

Pumpkin Patch & Family Fun Festival Open daily starting Oct. 1st Family Fun Festival Oct. 14th • 4-8 PM FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

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Be My Neighbor Day !

Meet Daniel Tiger during select times on October 3 during Children’s Board Free Tuesday at Glazer Children’s Museum

Be a Cool Caring Neighbor

by Helping to Create a Warm Wonderful Winter!

The October 3 Children’s Board Free Tuesday at the Glazer Children’s Museum, will feature a Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood theme. Daniel Tiger will be dropping by for a meet and greet and to encourage children and families to give back to the community by being a caring neighbor.

Free Tuesday visitors are asked to bring a new or very gently used sweater or sweatshirt to the event to share with a needy child as a part of the “Daniel Tiger Caring Neighbor Sweater Drive.”

Hey Neighbor, Create, Take and Donate!

Children and families will have the opportunity to create Daniel Tiger Caring Neighbor Kits, one to take home and one to donate to an area Head Start student.

Kits will include a Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood book, placemat and other goodies.

Watch Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood weekdays at 9:30 a.m. on WEDU PBS. Digital Channel 3.1, Frontier FiOS 506, Spectrum 1003, WOW! 905, Xfintiy 440 DANIEL TIGER’S NEIGHBORHOOD ® 2017 The Fred Rogers Company.

PBS KIDS and the PBS KIDS Logo are registered trademarks of Public Broadcasting Service. Used with permission.

/WEDUPublicMedia

36 TampaBayParenting.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

@wedupbs

wedu.org

Young Child | Education

Visit phelc.org for details on upcoming "Years of the Young Child" events.

Celebrate the

Young Child

By Jim Farrelly

Every year, typically in early spring, a special week is set aside to pay attention to early education, young children, their families and their teachers all over the country.

In Florida, Tallahassee hosts a week of special events, includ-

ing the "Hanging of the Hands" in the Capitol Rotunda: an annual display of colorful depictions of thousands of young children's hands, artistically created by young children and their statewide caregivers.

It's certainly a very special and appropriate week. Our very young children represent our future. They are our decision makers, workers, community leaders and citizens. While it's difficult to imagine a time when that very challenging 2-year-old or 4-year-old who just cannot refrain from climbing will one day safely pilot a commercial jet to an exotic vacation or lead deliberations on state or national issues in Tallahassee or in our nation's capital, it certainly will happen.

In Pasco and Hernando counties, we decided that just one week to celebrate young children, their families and our future was simply not enough.

In April 2016, the Board of Directors for the Early Learning Coalition of Pasco and Hernando Counties designated 2017-2018 as the "YEARS of the Young Child in Pasco and Hernando Counties."

Determined to bring regional attention to an evolving national interest in early learning, our Early Learning Coalition is sponsoring a series of special events throughout our communities to educate parents and entertain children.

Over the coming months, look for "Groovin' With the Grandparents" (a reading celebration with Grandparents), a children's art expo headlined by one of Florida's famed Highwaymen, a "Healthy Kids" day, and a much needed Job Fair for early learning staff. MANY MORE community activities are planned, highlighted by the Coalition's 10th Annual Early Learning Conference in October, Florida's largest, and a very special "Breakfast with Santa" in December.

I sincerely hope you'll support Pasco/Hernando's "YEARS of the Young Child" initiative and help spread the word statewide. Simply put, children are the community's most valued resource!

JIM FARRELLY, Executive Director of the Early Learning Coalition of Pasco and Hernando Counties, Inc.

SEPTEMBER 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 37

Education | College Greatness

A tot's ROAD TO COLLEGE

By Amy Hammond

Let’s take a look at what it takes to raise a college-bound kid in today’s world: massive test prep, 24/7 extracurriculars, recommendation letters blessed by the Pope…

Just kidding, parents. As the author of children’s books that inspire kids to attend college, I favor a more sentimental route. After all, the father peering into the crib at his Baby Gator does not extol the virtues of college as a means of gaining employment. He sings “We are the Boys.” And with that, the seed of college wonder is planted.

Here are some tips to help it grow throughout childhood, beginning with the onesie stage:

Whenever I speak to children during school visits for my books, I try to impress upon them that college is where you go to become who you want to be. Want to take math classes all day, kids? Love to write stories? Head to college.

• VISIT YOUR ALMA MATER OR YOUR FAVORITE UNIVERSITY with your child, and don’t head straight to the football stadium. Take an hour or so to tour the campus, explaining classes you took here, the study time you had there. Share your true college tale, with you as the protagonist and the degree as the goal.

• TEACH YOUR CHILD A FIGHT SONG IMMEDIATELY. Who needs “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” when you have “Yea, Alabama?”

• INTEGRATE EARLY LESSONS WITH ELEMENTS FROM YOUR FAVORITE UNIVERSITY. Color: Yes, Albert is

green. Animals: Chief Osceola rides a horse. LSU loves tigers.

Numbers: How many football players are out on the field?

• READ ABOUT YOUR COLLEGE TOGETHER. Visit the college website and scan headlines. Even the sports page will do. Join your university kids’ club (most have them).

• Did you graduate from college? If so, SHOW THAT DIPLOMA to your child. Talk about the classes you took in order to achieve it. Explain why it hangs in a place of honor.

• As your future college alumnus grows, notice which subjects he favors in school.

EXPLAIN THE DIFFERENT MAJORS that can come from such interests.

38 TampaBayParenting.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

Does your kid do the Gator chomp for strangers in FSU shirts? Is your little USF fan’s favorite movie “Ferdinand the Bull?” If so, you’re instilling a love for higher education.

Now on to test prep and those Pope-blessed recommendations.

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.”

Her books can be purchased at MascotBooks.com and various retailers, including Marion’s in St. Petersburg and Heads and Tails in Tampa. To purchase signed copies or request a school visit, email her at amyz916@ yahoo.com.

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K-8 Schools | Education

SPONSORED

A CASE FOR

5 distinct advantages of K-8 schools

THE K-8

By Karen Vaughan

For years, educators, parents and academic research institutes have uncovered benefits

CONTINUITY OF PARENT INVOLVEMENT A key indicator of student

for students at K-8 schools –

success is parent involvement,

schools that include elementary

which remains steady in K-8

and middle school grades.

schools through the middle

At a school that starts with sixth grade, the middle school-

school years when it tends to drop off as students move from

school to feel empowered to

reading, math and science

lead without being overshad-

are significantly stronger in

owed by older high school

K-8 schools. Students from

students.

K-8 schools were 11 percent more likely to be enrolled in

TIME TO DISCOVER STRENGTHS selective high school programs.

The K-8 student graduate has Students from K-8 schools also acquired a composite of leader- demonstrated a higher GPA in

aged students are at the bottom

9th grade.

of the pecking order. Shifting

Students who attend

from “top dog” status in fifth

schools that encompass

grade to “bottom dog” as a

kindergarten through 8th

sixth grader can be tough on

grade — such as Corbett

students and may contribute

Prep, which starts in PreK3

to academic declines in middle

— have more chances to be

school, a difficult time for stu-

“top dogs.” That privilege

dents when hormonal changes

translates into a better

and peer pressures may affect

experience socially and

their perspectives.

academically for students.

Students in K-8 schools

Overall, “top dogs” felt saf-

thrive in the vibrant sense of

er at school, reported fewer

community, develop important

disciplinary instances and

leadership skills and perform

benefited from increased

better academically than those

academic achievement.

who attend traditional K-5 and

Corbett Prep, a PreK3-

6-8 environments.

8th grade school in Tampa, is noted for its vibrant

Here are five advantages a

community and nurturing

K-8 school offers its students:

culture as well as it leader-

CULTURE OF COMMUNITY A K-8 culture is built on

ship and personal experiences

school environment.

that allows him or her to transi- students. As the role models

relationships with an emphasis on community being central to its culture. At schools like

ship model for middle school

5th grade to a separate middle

LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES When the expectation for 8th

tion to high school, many with

for the entire school, 6th-8th

interviews and application

graders enjoy opportunities for

processes, with confidence.

on- and off-campus retreats to

Corbett Preparatory School of

graders is to be role models for

Many K-8 schools have smaller learn leadership skills, discov-

IDS in Tampa (which teaches

the rest of the school, they rise

class sizes which, like parent

er their personal strengths and

PreK3 through eighth grade),

to the occasion. Waiting until

involvement, also contributes

work together as teams. These

faculty and staff collaborate

high school delays the chance

to social and academic success. experiences offer more than

across grade levels. Teachers

for students to grow and think

partner with families in a com-

as a leader. Students in K-8

munity of caring that continues

schools can put leadership

long after students have been

skills into practice at school

promoted to the next grade

wide events where middle

well. In a study done by Dr.

Founded in 1968, Corbett Preparatory School of IDS

level. Year after year, the school

schoolers act as buddies to

Robert Offenberg of Philadel-

is a fully accredited, nonsectarian private school in

community nurtures these

their younger peers, in sports

phia that compared outcomes

Tampa’s Carrollwood neighborhood. The school serves

relationships, resulting in

and on teams, and in multi-

of students who attended K-8

over 500 students from pre-kindergarten through

increased student self-esteem

age casts of dance and drama

schools versus the traditional

eighth grade and offers the International Baccalaureate

and a spirit of success.

performances. Opportunities

6-8 environment, the results

program of study for all students. For more information,

abound for students in the K-8

support K-8. SAT scores in

visitcorbettprep.com

preparation for high school;

ACADEMIC AND SOCIAL SUCCESS: “TOP DOGS”

rather, they offer preparation for life.

Test scores may improve as

SEPTEMBER 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 41

Education | Extraordinary Kids

Preparing to depart for a life-changing adventure!

L to R: Emily Dusold, Shrisha Saravana, Aakash Vijeesh, Taylor Buck, Ankush Mitra, Charles Davidson, Katie Gilson, Alexie Prieto, Cara von Ancken, Cameron Bray,Felix Cabreja, and Landon Anhalt

Hillsborough Schools students give back, bringing clean water to families 1,000 miles away

By Ginain Grayes

Imagine picturesque mountain views, waterfalls and tropical wildlife surrounded by the Caribbean Sea. The Caribbean Islands have long been tourist attractions, with pristine waters and sandy beaches. The Dominican Republic is one the most visited islands of the Caribbean and the second most populous Caribbean nation after Cuba. Strong tourism has led to rapid economic growth. However, not all communities on the island share in its wealth.

A group of eighth-grade students from Hillsborough County Public Schools took action to help a marginalized community within this island paradise rebuild for a basic need: clean water. On July 16, Roland Park K-8 Magnet International Baccalaureate (IB) World School took its 2017 International Service Learning Ambassadors through the mountains of the Dominican Republic to give back. One thousand miles away from their school campus in West Tampa, the students worked alongside the local villagers of Jarabacoa to improve the infrastructure and build aqueducts to provide clean water to 15 families. This group of 10 students spent two full days Shrisha Saravana builds and worked for more than 15 aqueducts with local hours to complete the project. villagers in Jarabocoa "In going to the Dominican to create a sustainable Republic, we've achieved a water system. greater sense on real world issues. With this cross-cultural Learn more experience, we've gained a deepabout Roland er understanding of ourselves Park K-8 Magnet and empathy and respect for IB World School, others," says Shrisha Saravana, at sdhc.k12.fl.us. a 2017 International Service Learning Ambassador.

42 TampaBayParenting.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

It wasn't "all work and no play" for the ambassadors. Hiking to stunning waterfalls, snorkeling and swimming offshore and exploring historical sites were just some of the highlights from their adventure. The students were also immersed in the culture, sampling local food and taking part in salsa and merengue dance. This immersion helped them not only enjoy the Dominican culture, but also recognize and discuss various struggles within the country.

"This trip allowed students to develop a deeper understanding of a culture outside their own. Additionally, the profound personal growth, empowered sense of self and connections made were priceless," says Cara von Ancken, assistant principal for Roland Park’s primary years program, who accompanied the students, along with Katie Gilson, lead teacher for the school’s middle years program.

The Roland Park magnet program provides students with authentic learning experiences, coupled with real world application that connects students on an international level. An integral component of the program is service learning and students taking action on local, national and global planes.

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SEPTEMBER 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 43

Health & Wellness | Germs!

Kick off the school year with healthy hygiene habits

By Karen Buckenheimer, RN, BSN

Now that students have returned to school, it's a perfect time to discuss the need for good personal hygiene habits with family members. Personal hygiene can be defined as keeping our bodies clean and healthy, while preventing the spread of germs. The most important reason to be clean is to stay healthy, because germs can lead to illness and infections. Unfortunately, germs are everywhere! They are in the air (from sneezing and coughing), work and play spaces at home, and at school (from infected people touching various surfaces).

The best way to prevent the spread of germs is by Washing Our Hands.

Some good times to wash hands include immediately after using the restroom, before and after mealtime, when we are sick, after touching an animal, after playing outside, before and after visiting a sick friend or relative, and especially after coughing and blowing our noses.

Handwashing is easy but very important. Be sure to wash the fronts and palms, between fingers, both wrists, and fingernails for approximately 20 seconds with soap and warm water. This is about as long as it takes to sing the ABCs or Happy Birthday song. Don't forget to dry hands completely because germs love to live in the water and dirt left on the hands. Also remember to use a paper towel to turn off the water if possible.

This prevents hands from touching germs on the faucet. If soap and water are not available, the Center for

KAREN BUCKENHEIMER, RN, BSN is the Executive Director of MORE HEALTH, Inc.

44 TampaBayParenting.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

Disease Control recommends using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol.

Do not neglect your mouth as germs can cause tooth decay.

If germs mix with sugar left on teeth after eating or drinking, plaque is formed. If plaque is not removed from the teeth, acid forms and will then cause a cavity. Cavities hurt and can make it hard for a student to concentrate at school. Proper nutrition, brushing your teeth with fluoridated toothpaste twice a day, flossing and visiting your dentist at least twice a year are vital to a healthy smile.

Kick off the school year by practicing healthy hygiene habits to ensure students have the best opportunity to be successful at school.Â

SIMPLE TIPS FOR A HEALTHY SCHOOL YEAR

1

Get plenty of rest

2

Wash hands with soap and warm water after going to the bathroom and before eating

3

Eat nutritious, healthy foods and plenty of water

4

When you cough or sneeze, cover your cough/sneeze with your elbow

5

Brush your teeth twice a day and floss once every night

6

Stay home from school if you are sick

What services and resources are available to you and your family?

Get an app for that...

It ’s so simple!

Download the Parent Connection app Answer a few questions In moments you’ll know what services are available Use the resources tab everyday And, it’s all free!

This project is/was supported by the Health Resources and Service Administration (HRSA)of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under grant number D89MC28265-01-00, Affordable Care Act, Maternal, Infant and Early Childhood HomeVisiting Program, $8,361,139. This information or content and conclusions are thoseof the author and should not be construed as the official position or policy of,nor should any endorsement be inferred by HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government.

The Parent Connection app is brought to you by the Healthy Start Coalition of Hillsborough County, Inc.

SEPTEMBER 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 45

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BEAT THE

Ask the Doctor | Health & Wellness

sleepy-time blues

By Bobbi Hopkins

Sleep is a time to rest and recharge, but some children may not get the restful sleep they need. Whether this is because of trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, a lack of rest can lead to a variety of other issues, including poor performance in school and behavior problems.

Every child is different and the amount of sleep needed varies depending on their age. A good rule of thumb is that a 10-year-old child needs 10 hours of sleep each night. Younger children need even more sleep, and teens should get between eight and nine hours each night.

SETTING A BEDTIME ROUTINE Following the same routine every night helps your child mentally prepare for sleep.

A bedtime routine can be as simple as a warm bath and a little bit of reading. Following the same pattern at the same time every night will create cues for the brain to start getting ready to sleep. Use these tips for setting a bedtime routine: • Start the routine at the same time every night.

• Reduce indoor lights to encourage the release of melatonin, which will help your child feel sleepy sooner. Start this around 6 p.m. or when it starts to get dark outside. Think of it as pretending to have no electricity.

• Stop using electronics (TV, tablet, computer, phone) at least one hour before bed.

• Prepare a warm bath before bedtime.

Many children may find this soothing.

• Prepare a small, quiet activity such as

allowed to leave their room. If they wake up

play games, talk on the phone and do other

earlier, staying in their room will help them

activities off of their bed and away from the

fall back asleep instead of getting up to go

bedroom. This helps their body associate their

play or watch TV.

bed with sleep and not with any other activity.

Remember, do not allow bargaining when

reading a book or singing a soft song. Be sure

following a bedtime routine. Children will

to keep the activity short. For example, no

often ask for “one more hug” or “one more

more than two short books.

song” to delay going to bed. Though it may be

• Be consistent between caregivers. Any change in the routine can disturb your child’s ability to rest.

• Walk your child back to their room with

WHEN SHOULD MY CHILD SEE A DOCTOR? Children who lack sleep may not exhibit day-

difficult, stick by the rules you have set so

time sleepiness. They may be more hyperactive,

your child can be at their best the next day.

inattentive or have behavior difficulties. Obe-

Along with a routine, make sure your

sity, depression, anxiety and headaches are just

child’s room is a relaxing environment. A TV

a few disorders that have been related to sleep

as little interaction as possible to help them

in the room or having lots of toys in the bed

problems. Inability to initiate sleep, difficulty

settle back into sleep easier if they wake up

can send mixed messages to the brain about

sleeping through the night, snoring, daytime

during the night and come to you.

whether it is time to play or sleep. During the

sleepiness or hyperactivity should prompt a

day, encourage your child to do homework,

visit with your physician.

• Set a wake up time for when your child is

BOBBI HOPKINS, M.D., is a board certified pediatric sleep specialist and medical director of the Sleep Center at All Children’s Hospital Johns Hopkins Medicine. She completed her training in pediatrics, child neurology and sleep medicine at Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston, Texas.

SEPTEMBER 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 47

Health & Wellness | Baby safety

safe baby 10 tips for babyproofing your home!

By Anu Varma Panchal

Your baby: The most precious thing in your universe. You’ve brought that bundle of joy home and are ready to love it till the end of time. But is your home as ready as you are? Total, 100-percent safety might be an illusion, but there are steps we can take to ensure that we’ve done the most we can do to protect our children at home. We talked to Kendal Mundy, a wellness and safety specialist in St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital’s Safety Store, who gave us a few great tips for new parents (and grandparents, and eager-to-babysit uncles and aunts!) to follow to make and keep home a safe place for baby.

1.

Get down at your child’s level and then look at your room with new eyes. You may notice details you never had from up above, such as buttons or paper clips lurking under sofas or coffee tables. A crawling explorer might easily mistake one for a snack and choke.

2.

Store anything potentially toxic out of reach. This includes medicines, cleaning supplies, mothballs, lighter fluid, dishwasher and washing machine detergent packets and pods.

Some types of plants also can be toxic and should be kept out of reach and far away from eager little fingers and mouths. (For a list of poisonous plants, check out: http://www.poisoncentertampa.org/poison-topics/ poisonous-plants/ )

3.

Do not remove labels from pill bottles or cleaning supplies. People will sometimes take such materials out of their original packaging and load bleach into an old gallon milk jug, for example. Your toddler can’t read, but may recognize the jug, associate it with a cold drink and try and chug down the contents, with disastrous results.

4.

Toy safety is crucial. If you come across a toy that seems defective or dangerous, you can call the Consumer Protection Hotline at 800 638 CPSC and report it. If you buy a new toy, search for it on the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission website (https://www. cpsc.gov/) or at www.safekids.org to ensure there have been no safety recalls for that product. Also, make sure your child’s toys are age appropriate. Pay attention to age recommendations—they are usually made with regard to safety—and be careful when little ones play with older sibling’s toys.

5.

Water safety is a hot topic around the home—while pool access should always be safely blocked off with self-closing gates, locks and alarms, children under 1 are more likely to drown in bathtubs, buckets or toilets. Keep toilets latched and empty mop buckets and kiddie pools or any container into which a baby or toddler could topple.

ST. JOSEPH’S CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL’S SAFETY STORE is staffed

by trained injury prevention experts who help families determine their safety needs and select appropriate products. The specialists also provide free education on how to use and maintain the safety products. For more information, please call (813) 554-8510 or visit baycare.org/sjch/forpatientsvisitors/the-safety-store

48 TampaBayParenting.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

6.

When putting baby down for her nap, make sure it’s in a safe crib.

This means there’s nothing in there with baby other than a tightly fitted sheet on the mattress: no stuffed toys, blankets or bumpers. They look cute, but can be suffocation hazards.

7.

When cooking, make sure baby is secure in a high chair or playpen. Don’t leave cooking food unattended, and if possible, don’t use the front burner if your little one is unavoidably crawling around underfoot. Purchase stove knob covers, especially if the knobs are in the front and within easy reach, to prevent tiny hands from inadvertently turning a burner on.

8.

Heavy bookcases, display cases and large screen TVs can cause an immense amount of damage if a crawling toddler heaves himself up using a shelf and pulls the whole thing down on top of himself. Anchor such furniture and televisions to the walls.

9.

Set your hot water heater to 120 degrees or less. Temperatures that may feel tolerably hot to us can be unbearable for a little baby and blister their skin. To prevent your baby from hurting herself by turning on the tap by mistake—or just for fun!—make sure the water can’t get too hot in the first place.

10.

Install safety gates not only at the top of the stairs, but also on the bottom, so adventurous little ones cannot climb up and tumble back down. Safety gates come in all types and price points, but the ones that mount securely into the walls are a more secure option than the ones that rely on tension.

When ANU VARMA PANCHAL isn’t writing, editing or volunteering on the board of her kids' PTA, she’s usually in her minivan driving her two daughters (12 and 9) around Tampa to school and their activities.

SEPTEMBER 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 49

50 TampaBayParenting.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

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family fun | Explore More

Discovering Great Explorations Children's Museum and Sunken Gardens

By Anna Tataris De Jesus

ANNA TATARIS DE JESUS is an Emmy nominated television journalist with a passion for traveling with her family. After 15 years on camera in television news, Anna gave up hard news for travel reporting. In 2012, she and husband Roy, a web anchor for Bay News 9, created “The Great Escape Plan.� Together they create videos for social media and their website TheGreatEscapePlan.com to inspire other families to travel.

52 TampaBayParenting.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

Great Explorations The Great Explorations Children's Museum in St. Petersburg is a place your child can truly enjoy being a kid, a place where you won't find kids playing on mobile devices because instead, they are using their creativity and imagination to explore and learn to play. It's a place my 6- and 2-year-old love. In fact, I took them there to write this story and I was once again reminded of the pure joy they get when visiting this gem.

The 23,000-square-foot museum is filled with exhibits and activities to stimulate learning through creativity, play and exploration. Designed for children 10 and younger, this small museum has a lot to do! Here are five of our Great Exploration faves!

MY FIRST MARKET A child-sized Publix supermarket allows kids to stroll aisles and look for food items with their own shopping cart or basket. Kids shop for their own products, but they can also pretend to be a cashier with a register and scanner to check out others’ shopping.

PET VET Kids can learn about the importance of caring for a pet. The exhibit features microscopes, a grooming table with working blow dryer, x-ray viewers and an exam table. Kids can also use ribbons and bows to groom their play pet.

NEWS STATION Kids can experience the thrill of seeing

themselves on TV. They can sit at a Bay News 9 News Desk to write a story or read a prewritten script. The camera puts them into their own newscast.

There's even a button to push and hear a breaking news animation used in real newscasts.

THE TOUCH TUNNEL Crawl through on your hands and knees past different obstacles, inclines and textures. In the complete and total darkness, you must use your sense of touch to feel your way out of the 100-foot long tunnel.

PIZZA KITCHEN Kids can pretend to work at the BellaBrava's pizza restaurant. They can pretend to

make their own pizzas with soft sculpture ingredients. They can also put their own pizzas on a pretend oven and serve fellow café guests.

Other must-sees include Team STEAM’s daily Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math activities and a terrific gift shop with unique educational toys, crafts and science experiments. And coming soon is a wall climber's exhibit funded by Evan and Jaime Longoria’s half-million dollar donation. Longo's Cove will be a three-dimensional structure that is part jungle gym and part work of art.

Climbing from pad to pad, children will learn about Florida sea life while conquering new heights. The climber will be in front of the current treehouse, which will be renovated into a newly-themed boathouse and pirate ship. To learn more about the museum go to Greatex.org.

Sunken Gardens Sunken Gardens is right next door to the Great Explorations Children's Museum and is a great place for parents and kids to spend an hour or two. It is a 100-year-old garden that is home to some of the oldest tropical plants in the region. You can stroll through paths flanked by exotic plants from around the world, discover beautiful cascading waterfalls and learn about native plants and imports while walking under a canopy of palm trees. Kids will also enjoy seeing the beautiful flamingos and chasing butterflies down winding paths. Children's classes are held on Saturdays to teach kids about topics like frogs and toads or wildflowers.

Be sure to check out the website Sunkengardens.org.

SEPTEMBER 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 53

What's Happening | Around Town

Students from Robinson High School in South Tampa caught up with Dr. Jill Biden, professor and former Second Lady of the United States, at the Military Child Education Coalition's national training seminar in Washington, D.C. Dr. Biden was the conference's keynote speaker.

Students attending Tampa’s Hillel Academy have scored in the top 10 percent nationally in the categories of Quantitative Reasoning and Mathematics, and in the top 20 percent nationally in four additional categories.

Our 10th Annual Back to School Event at WestShore Plaza was a huge success! Thank you to everyone who attended!

More events are coming soon.

Students from Lockhart Elementary Magnet School won a chance to send their experiment studying mushrooms and their growth on Earth and in microgravity into space!

Astronauts on the International Space Station will conduct the experiment and return it to Earth later this year where the students will compare the results from the trial in space to their trials on Earth. This was made possible

by Suncoast Federal Credit Union which has supported the Tampa Bay STEM Network in the Student Spaceflight Experiment Program for the last four years.

54 TampaBayParenting.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

Bucified BERT Florida Hospital presented the 2017 Tampa Bay Storm “Fan Appreciation Night” and gave away smartwatches, tablets and a flat screen television to deserving Storm fans!

Florida Hospital Tampa delivered almost 200 backpacks filled with school supplies to Mort Elementary School in preparation for the new school year. The backpacks were personal donations from employees, volunteers and medical staff to the children of Mort. For more than 20 years, the hospital’s staff has graciously donated school supplies to the students of their local community school.

Albert Owens, also known as Bucified Bert, the Tampa Bay Buccaneer’s number one fan, recently earned a spot on the Pro Football Ultimate Fan Association in Canton, Ohio!

While he is passionate about our home team, his mission is to make a difference in the lives of children in Tampa Bay in memory of his mother, Emma-Lee, who inspired him to go after his dreams.

There’s a special meaning behind the name Bucified Bert. It’s an acronym: Be Understanding Citizens and Identify Friendly Individuals Each Day. He inspires local kids to choose to befriend good people, focus on education and stay safe.

His Bucified and OLE is Alive Mission (another acronym: Operation Legacy Emma-Lee) also helps send local students to college with scholarships awarded to “Dream Seekers” every Mother’s Day week.

Thank you for all you do, Bucified Bert! You are extraordinary!

Tampa Bay Storm fans met players and received autographs on their co-branded Florida Hospital t-shirt to commemorate “Fan Appreciation Night”.

Learn more at Bucified.com

SEPTEMBER 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 55

What’s Happening | Top picks

SEPTEMBER ART OF THE BRICK TAMPA Through Sept. 4

Don’t miss what has been hailed as the world’s largest display of LEGO art as the touring exhibit

by Nathan Sawaya and courtesy of the Vinik Family Foundation is available for viewing for its final days in downtown Tampa.

The exhibit is accompanied by an interactive build space for guests of all ages. Free admission and parking. artofthebricktampa.com Everyone

GATEWAYS TO THE CARIBBEAN: MAPPING THE FLORIDA-CUBA CONNECTION Through Jan. 2018 Check out the latest exhibit on display at the Tampa Bay History Center in Tampa. Get a closer look at five centuries of connections and interaction between Florida and Cuba through rare and original maps, lithographs and other documents. tampabayhistorycenter. org Everyone

at the other Bay area attraction during the month of September.

For more information about this program, visit flaquarium.org and lowryparkzoo.org. Everyone

DILLY DALLY WITH DALI Sept. 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30, 11:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Bring the kids to The Dali in St. Pete for the chance to explore the creative world of Dali through games, puzzles and arts and crafts. Parents can join in the fun.

Admission is free. thedali.org 5-12

LABOR DAY FUN Sept. 4, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Join Great Explorations Children’s Museum in St. Pete for patriotic games and crafts all day. Activities include creating paper dolls, designing a stars and stripes windsock and more. Kids can also take part in the When I Grow Up Wall and a Labor Day relay. The museum also will offer one FREE admission to all first-responders and members of the military (active and retired) with proper ID. greatex.org Everyone

CHILDREN’S BOARD OF HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY FREE TUESDAY Sept. 5, noon to 7 p.m.

Enjoy a free admission promotion at Glazer Children’s Museum. The event aligns with the Children’s Board’s mission to promote the well-being of children and families. Guests can join the

BOOKTEMBER AT GLAZER CHILDREN'S MUSEUM Sept. 5-30 Come out to Glazer Children’s Museum for Literacy Month and celebrate the museum's 7th birthday with $7 admission and special daily themes during September. The Museum will spotlight some of its favorite books all month long. glazermuseum.org Everyone

SWAPTEMBER Sept. 1-30 Florida Aquarium is partnering with Lowry Park Zoo so members of each can enjoy FREE admission

TRUCK-N-PLAY DAY Sept. 16, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Bring the kids for a morning of fun games, obstacle courses, arts and crafts and other fun at this City of Safety Harbor event being held at Safety Harbor City Park. A variety of different trucks will be available for children to touch and sit behind the wheel to experience them firsthand. Admission is free. cityofsafetyharbor.com Everyone

56 TampaBayParenting.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

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

museum with partners including WEDU PBS for free family fun monthly. glazermuseum.org Everyone

6TH ANNUAL FALL STAMPEDE Sept. 9, 8 a.m.

Sign up the whole family for a fun morning at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park in downtown Tampa.

Day includes a 5K chip-timed run, 1-Mile Family Fun Walk, Mascot Race, photo opportunities with the Chick-fil-A cows and a postrace party in the Family Fun Zone.

Proceeds benefit the Children’s Cancer Center. To register, visit fallstampede.com. Everyone

GUY HARVEY WEEKEND Sept. 9-10, various times Join the renowned artist and conservationist at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay for meet-and-greets, autographs and more. Guests can attend an exclusive presentation by Harvey at 1 p.m. about his conservation fund and latest excursions. buschgardens.com/tampa Everyone

2017 WORKING WOMEN STATE CONFERENCE Sept. 14-15, various times Hear from dozens of speakers from all over the country at this year’s expanded event hosted by Working Women of Florida at Straz Center. General admission tickets include both morning and afternoon keynotes; VIP admission includes a copy of Keynote Speaker Emily Ley’s book and a

VIP champagne reception. For tickets and speaker lineup, visit workingwomenconference.com Moms

PEPPA PIG LIVE! Sept. 17, 1 p.m.

Catch this action-packed live show featuring life size puppets and costumed characters from the hit family show of 2016, “Peppa Pig,” when it returns to Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. Join Peppa, George, Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig and more in an all-singing, all-dancing adventure full of songs, games and more. Tickets are $18.75-$43.25. rutheckerdhall.net Everyone

FASHION WEEK TAMPA BAY Sept. 20-23, various times Experience the local fashion scene through a diverse selection of designer events planned across the Bay area. For the latest news about this year’s participating designers, event schedule and ticket information, go to fashionweektampabay.com Everyone

MUSEUM DAY LIVE! Sept. 23, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Check with area museums for participation in this national free admission promotion to

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

Watch a potions demonstration and enjoy a fantastic feast suitable for a wizard. Tickets are $55 members and $65 general admission. glazermuseum.org. Everyone

SUPERHERO SATURDAY AND SUNDAY AT GREAT EXPLORATIONS Sept. 23-24, various times Tap into your own superpowers and perfect your superhero look at Great Explorations Children’s Museum in St. Pete. Earn a super certificate at Superhero Academy, design a superhero paper doll and make a super-cool mask. Participants also can rid our Touch Tunnel of glowing “kryptonite” and catch special super hero guest appearances. Hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. greatex.org Everyone

HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER’S STONE IN CONCERT Sept. 29 – Oct. 1, various times

honor the spirit of the Smithsonian Institute facilities in Washington D.C. which offer free admission daily. For a list of the 1,300 participating U.S. museums, visit smithsonianmag.com/museumdaylive and download a ticket which provides free admission for two people. Limit is one per household and email address. Everyone

HARRY POTTER SORTING CEREMONY DINNER Sept. 23, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Get ready for a magical night as Glazer Children’s Museum’s third floor is transformed into the Great Hall at Hogwarts. Enter through platform 9 3/4 and get “sorted” into your proper Hogwarts house.

TRAMPOLINE PARK SENSORY SATURDAYS Sept. 2 and 16, 9-10 a.m.

Ramp up the family and head to Altitude Trampoline Park in Tampa for a sensory-friendly morning of trampoline fun. The park offers a less crowded environment and reduced music volume. altitudetampa.com Everyone

WARRIORS FOR AUTISM – SENSORY WARRIORS PROGRAM Sept. 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30, 11 a.m. - noon Get introduced to adaptive martial arts training at Warrior Fitness & Sensory in Tampa with programming designed for children on the autism spectrum and their siblings in a safe and supportive learning environment.

Classes include kickboxing, martial arts, flexibility, anti-bullying, speed and agility drills, discipline, self-defense and more. warriorsensory.com 5 & Older

Relive the magic of the film in high definition on a giant screen while hearing The Florida Orchestra perform John Williams’ unforgettable score at Straz Center in Tampa. Tickets start at $45. strazcenter.org Everyone

DISNEY ON ICE PRESENTS FROZEN! Sept. 29 - Oct. 1, 6-8 p.m.

GS FEST Sept. 23, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Spend a day experiencing everything exciting that Girl Scouts of West Central Florida can enjoy as members at this special event at USF Sun Dome in Tampa. Family, friends and neighbors are invited to come out and take part in fun, creative and even science-flavored activities hosted by booth vendors such as Glazer Children’s Museum, MOSI, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Clearwater Marine Aquarium. gswcf.org Everyone

SPECIAL NEEDS EVENTS

KINDNESS ROCKS Sept. 23, 3-5 p.m.

Stop by Jimmy B. Keel Regional Library in Carrollwood for a fun afternoon of making rock creations to hide in plain sight throughout the community. Participants can bring their own bigger rocks or rocks can be provided. After rocks are decorated using paint and brushes provided, attendees can take their rocks with them and set them free in locations of their choosing. hcplc.org Everyone

Discover the full story of Disney’s “Frozen” told uniquely at Amalie Arena. Be a part of Anna’s adventure to find her sister, Queen Elsa, whose icy powers trapped the kingdom in an eternal winter. Hosted by Mickey and Minnie, the show offers the whole family a chance to sing along and enjoy special appearances by the Disney Princesses, Woody, Buzz, Dory and more.

Tickets start at $18. amaliearena. com Everyone

SENSORY SENSITIVE SUNDAYS Sept. 3, 9-11 a.m.

Take the whole family to Chuck E. Cheese’s in Wesley Chapel for a morning of fun. The restaurant offers families a sensory-friendly environment featuring reduced lighting and noise, food and games for everyone and a trained staff. For more information, call 813-979-6200. Everyone

GREAT CONNECTIONS Sept. 10, 10 a.m. to noon Roam the halls of Great Explorations and enjoy special early access hours made available to children with special needs and their families. Take part in sensory friendly activities and crafts the second Sunday of the month.

Cost is $5 per person for general admission and free to Museum members. greatex.org 6 & Older

SUNSHINE SUNDAY SEVENTH BIRTHDAY BASH AT GLAZER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Sept. 24, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Besides free admission all weekend long to celebrate Glazer Children’s Museum’s birthday, the Museum will also offer a special Sunshine Sunday Birthday Bash with sensory-friendly activities.

The birthday party will open to the public from 1-6 p.m. Guests will get to enjoy music, games and more. glazermuseum.com Everyone

SENSORY-FRIENDLY MOVIE SCREENING: THE LEGO NINJAGO MOVIE Sept. 30, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Catch a sensory-friendly screening of this new release at Studio Movie Grill at University Mall in Tampa. Screening is shown with reduced lights and lowered volume. studiomoviegrill.com Everyone

2017 TAMPA BAY’S TAILGATE TASTE FEST Sept. 30, 3-10:30 p.m.

Bring the friends and family and enjoy an afternoon at the park for the ultimate tailgate experience at Curtis Hixon Park in downtown Tampa. No outside food or drink is permitted. Restaurants from around the Bay area will whip up tailgate favorites. Guests can purchase a food sample wristband or VIP pass. Free admission. tailgatetastefest.com Everyone SEPTEMBER 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 57

The Humane Society of Tampa Bay INVITES YOU TO JOIN US AT

AN EVENING TO BENEFIT HOMELESS ANIMALS Best In Show Sponsors: The Brink Foundation & An Anonymous Friend of the Animals

Saturday, October 14, 2017 5:30pm

to

11:00pm

at the

tampa Convention Center

hoSteD BY honorarY ChairS

Beau WilliamS & anDrea Gonzmart WilliamS, 5th Generation ColumBia reStaurant Group

Tickets, VIP ACCESS & SponsorshiP: TUXESANDTAILSTAMPA.COM or 813.876-4150 ADPOPTABLE PETS

DINNER

VIP LOUNGE

ENTERTAINMENT

COCKTAIL PARTY

LIVE AUCTION

SILENT AUCTION

AFTER PARTY at THE LANDING

BLACK TIE / CREATIVE BLACK TIE OPTIONAL 58 TampaBayParenting.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

UPLOAD A PHOTO OF YOUR KID IN HIS OR HER DIY HALLOWEEN COSTUME FOR A CHANCE TO BE FEATURED IN OUR OCTOBER ISSUE! TampaBayParenting.com/HalloweenDIY SEPTEMBER 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 59

Expert ER care for kids

The care you expect.

The expertise you know and trust.

PEDIATRIC EMERGENCY CARE COORDINATION BY

Florida Hospital and Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital have an exclusive affiliation that brings nationally ranked expertise and pediatric emergency care to each of our six emergency rooms. Additionally, we offer 24/7 access to on-site All Children’s Specialty Physicians at our Florida Hospital Tampa location.

ER4Children.com 60 TampaBayParenting.com | SEPTEMBER 2017