February 2017

FEBRUARY 2017

tampabayparenting.com

LOWRY PARK ZOO: UNFORGETTABLE CONNECTIONS TAKE A C RE OF YOUR

he a rt p g . 36

Ways to Keep Your Marriage STRONG

Guest Editor: Kate Sawa

OF THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION TAMPA BAY 1 FEB 2017 | OF TampaBayParenting.com

2 TampaBayParenting.com | FEB 2017

Your Source for Exceptional Pediatric Care

With more than 200 pediatricians, pediatric specialists and family medicine physicians in Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas and Polk counties, care for your family is always nearby.

n Now accepting new patients.

As the area’s premier pediatric providers, we will continue to help your children stay healthy, with a wide range of services, including:

For assistance in scheduling an appointment:

n Asthma management

n Pediatric sick visits

n Hospital newborn care

n Well child care

n Most major insurance plans are accepted.

(855) 466-6686

n Immunizations n New baby care and separate well baby waiting room Thank you for allowing us to care for your family.

BayCareMedicalGroup.org BC1609112-1216

FEB 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 3

FEBRUARY 2017

*

LIFE + HOME

* *

FOOD + DRINK

*

08 Relationships: Tips to Maintain a Strong Marriage 10 Home Design: Small Changes, Big Impact 12 Toy Organization: Love your Legos 13 Planning Ahead: Planning for a Special Needs Child

14 Responsible Farming: Buckhorn Nursery 17 Heart Healthy Recipe: Edamame Salad from guest editor Kate Sawa

EDUCATION

18 STEM at Home: The Pros Share Tips on Toys and Activities 20 STEM Fair: Preview of the Hillsborough County Regional STEM Fair

22 Let’s Get App-y: Glazer Children’s Museum CEO Jennifer Stancil Shares Her Favorite Apps for Kids

FAMILY FUN

39 Lowry Park Zoo: Unforgettable Animal Encounters 41 Staycation Tips: Tampa Bay’s Best Staycations

* *

BEAUTY + STYLE

*

WHAT'S HAPPENING

26 What’s in Your Bag? with blogger Grace Patton 28 Designer: Ann Lowe 29 Nursing Style: Nursing Queen, Local Mom Creates New Nursing Wear Clothing Line

HEALTH + WELLNESS 30 Ask the Doctor: Dr. Jill Hechtman 33 Inside Look: Bryan Glazer Family JCC 34 Autism: Behavioral Treatments 36 Your Heart: Take Care of It

42 Around Town 45 News from Around the Bay 46 Top Picks: Check out Our Favorite Events in February 47 February Calendar

February 2017 Cover Kid: Jaxson Kees Sapp, 2 at Lowry Park Zoo with Bruce the Aldabra Tortoise, 55 Photos by Darlene Barlows Photography

4 TampaBayParenting.com | FEB 2017

SPONSOR

FEB 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 5

MESSAGE FROM GUEST EDITOR CREATIVE DIRECTOR Laura Byrne

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Anu Varma Panchal

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Anu Varma Panchal Jill Hechtman, MD FACOG Kate Sawa Andrea Alava Dr. Wendy Rice Elaine N. McGinnis, Esq. Anna Tataris De Jesus Grayson Kamm Anthony Pelaez Quinn Reitz Grace Patton Julianne Hendrickson

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Sarah Stoulil

CALENDAR & NEIGHBORHOOD STORIES Chris Kuhn

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Ralf Gonzalez Craig Collins

INTERNS

Zarah Lafleur

LAYOUT & DESIGN Page Four Creative

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Darlene Barlows Photography

SOCIAL MOMS

Lisa-Marie Leihy Mandi Mella

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:

Facebook.com/ tampabayparentingmagazine 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 | FEB 2017

Time is my most precious commodity.

I struggle with how to fit in a full-time job with being the mother of a 6- and 4-year-old, a wife, a sister, a daughter and a friend. And then there’s taking care of myself. February is American Heart Month and a key month for the Go Red For Women movement, the American Heart Association’s campaign to end heart disease and stroke in women.

These two health threats cause one in three women’s deaths each year, killing approximately one woman every minute.

Yet, the good news is that 80 percent of cardiac events can be prevented with education and lifestyle changes.

I used to struggle with finding the time and energy to take care of myself when others depend on me. It almost felt selfish. Then I changed my perspective: What if I were to go missing from my story? Who would take care of my kids?

What kind of pain would my absence cause my husband, my parents and my siblings? Who would be there for my friends? Who would complete my life’s story?

For me, that perspective was a crucial turning point that turned taking care of myself from a selfish to a selfless act. Taking care of myself involves exercise, nutrition and being an advocate with my primary care physician. The American Heart Association encourages all women to take charge of their health by developing a relationship with their physician and developing a heart health plan. I recently found an amazing doctor and we’ve set short-term and long-term health goals.

A crucial component of good health is exercise, which has countless benefits for mental and physical health. The

AHA recommends adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise every week. Taking time to exercise sets a good example for my kids. It gives me more energy to run around and play rocket ships and tag, and helps me mentally by giving me thought clarity and positive moods. And if I’m really candid, sometimes during a run I feel like a conqueror, an overcomer, a pillar of strength – and I like it. I try to run 2 miles about four times a week. I don’t need to run far; short and frequent runs work best for me. I also play beach volleyball and dance at different times of the year.

These are forms of exercise that fuel my soul.

Eating healthy can improve heart and brain health. I am conscious of what I eat and try to get protein, fruits and vegetables in throughout the day. We teach our kids about the importance of healthy eating and trying to get four to five servings of fruits and vegetables per day. While they’re still a bit particular, they have become very fond of apples and green peppers.

Cardiovascular health is a long-term plan.

I like the benefits I get from it now but I know that, just like a retirement account, good cardiovascular health will pay off down the road as well. Not wanting to go missing from my story isn’t just important today, it applies just as much 50 years from now.

During Heart Month, I encourage you to take care of you – a truly selfless act.

Kate Sawa Executive Director American Heart Association/American Stroke Association

MORE WITH KATE SAWA ON PAGE 36

Family photo By Christina Higman

FEB 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 7

* Life + Home | Relationships

5 Tips to keep your relationships strong Just in time for Valentines Day

CARE FOR YOURSELF Yes, your partner is supposed to love you for better or worse, but don’t take that literally. Taking care of yourself and paying attention to how you look and feel are so important for your relationship.

When you feel good about yourself, your relationship will benefit from that. As a parent, you can feel exhausted and stressed, recognize those times and ask for a little time for you. You both deserve that time.

CARE FOR YOUR RELATIONSHIP Keeping your relationship strong as a couple is challenging enough, but what about when you throw children into the middle of it? Making time for your spouse can feel overwhelming, especially when you feel like you’re in everyday survival mode. However, if you keep these suggestions in mind, you can nurture a healthy relationship built on love and respect. Here are five important tips to help keep both your family and relationship strong.

Being a parent may seem like a 24-7 job, and in most cases, is, but that doesn’t mean you don’t take time out to take care of your intimate relationship as a couple.

Make time for date nights and leave the day-to-day stuff at home. Have intellectual conversations or go to a sporting event; do something that you both enjoy without the worry of changing diapers or helping with bath time. Find a qualified sitter to help you make these nights happen and make them a priority.

COMMUNICATE LISTEN Listen way more than you think you need to and try to understand each other’s point of view. This means really paying attention and focusing on the things that interest your spouse, even when they might not interest you.

SHOW YOUR APPRECIATION Catch your partner ‘being good.’ Tell him or her when they look good or when you appreciate the nice things they do for you. Let them know you see the effort they put into the relationship. Be cognizant of the good things! Remember you’re not just parents, you have identities outside being a parent. Nurture that in each other.

At Rice Psychology Group of Tampa, we offer our parent consultation services to those needing to address everyday child-related trials that often come with parenthood. We work with married, separated, divorcing, divorced and single parents.

Dr. Wendy Rice of Rice Psychology Group has been instrumental in bringing the 2016 documentary “Screenagers: Growing Up in the Digital Age” to the greater Tampa Bay community. She has locations in South Tampa and Carrollwood, and conditions that Dr. Rice and her team treat include ADD/ADHD and other attention difficulties, family and relationship concerns, anxiety and phobias, depression and Autism Spectrum Disorder.

8 TampaBayParenting.com | FEB 2017

You can’t solve or fix problems if you don’t talk about them. Talk to each other immediately when something is bothering you.

Don’t wait for it to fester into something bigger than it is. This is especially true for couples who are parents. Always communicate on how to handle issues with your children. Many times, it can be hard to agree on how you want to raise your children, discipline your children and even teach them. This can cause issues in your relationship.

The NEW B98.7 welcomes

Morning Show Stars Chadd & Kristi!

Beginning Monday, February 6th...

Start your morning each weekday with Chadd & Kristi 5am-10am on The New B98.7

“Like” us on Facebook at facebook.com/b987fm

FEB 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 9

* Life + Home | Home Design

Small changes, BIG IMPACT THREE QUICK LIVING ROOM UPDATES

2

ADD GREENERY. How fitting that Pantone’s color of the year for 2017 is “Greenery.”

It’s a refreshing color that would bring life to any room in your home. Add a Fiddle Leaf Fig, a ceramic pot or a throw in this color to brighten up the room. You’d be surprised how many color combinations go with this bright shade of green.

The living room is the room in which we spend the most time as a family, but it’s also the one that usually gets overlooked as it becomes a dumping ground for backpacks, toys and clutter.

It doesn’t have to be that way.

Although my home decor is ever-changing (Many of

my friends kid me when they come over and notice a new rug, lighting fixture or organizational system!), I believe that all well-decorated rooms take time. It takes time to learn not only how to get the most out of your space, but also what your unique style may be.

HERE ARE THREE SIMPLE CHANGES THAT CAN MAKE YOUR LIVING ROOM MORE ENJOYABLE AND ORGANIZED.

3

DECLUTTER AND PARE DOWN decorative items.

About twice a year, I take everything out of my built-ins and bookshelves in order to inventory what I seriously love and want to keep, and what can go. Do this yourself! Donate items you don’t love or are outdated to keep things simple and fresh.

1 Home Design Tips from February Guest Editor Kate Sawa “WE ADORN OUR FIREPLACE WITH MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS: A GUITAR ON ONE SIDE AND TWO BONGOS AND A TAMBOURINE ON THE OTHER SIDE. I LIKE THE LOOK AND IT ENCOURAGES THE CHILDREN TO PLAY MUSIC, SING AND DANCE.” 10 TampaBayParenting.com | FEB 2017

ORGANIZE TOYS. My living room is also the main play space for our two young children. Toys rule the house, but I found large totable bins from The Container Store and I’m now able to hide most of the toys on our built-in shelves. When we entertain after the kids are in bed, none of the toys can be seen.

JULIANNE HENDRICKSON Julianne Hendrickson is founder of Tampa-based Hendrickson Interiors. You can reach her at Julianne.hendrickson@gmail.com.

bringthemagichome

INTRODUCING

It’s fab! It’s fresh! It’s smiles by the gallon!

Designed, made, and curated only by Ethan Allen.

All styles now at introductory prices.

CITRUS PARK 8314 CITRUS PARK DRIVE (ACROSS FROM CITRUS PARK TOWN CENTER) 813.920.9696 BRANDON 10015 ADAMO DRIVE HIGHWAY 60 (1/2 MI. WEST OF BRANDON TOWN CENTER) 813.621.7585 Ask a designer or visit ethanallen.com/disney for details. Introductory pricing ends March 31, 2017. ©2017 Ethan Allen Global, Inc. ©Disney

FEB 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 11

* Life + Home | Toy Organization

Love your Legos

5 ways to organize the tiny bricks

Last year after stepping on Legos in virtually every room of my house, I decided it was time to get organized. As the mom of two Lego-breathing, Lego-loving boys who have spent hours putting together these popular little bricks, I was used to Legos covering every inch of our playroom. It was when they started spilling over into the kitchen and bathroom that I had to say enough was enough! I have to admit that the task seemed a little overwhelming at first. Some of the sets were missing pieces, some of the older sets were unrecognizable, and some were missing mini figures and manuals. I honestly had no idea where to begin.

1

START WITH THE SETS First we took all sets that were nearly complete, and placed them in zipper baggies along with their manuals and respective mini figures. My boys were not so happy about breaking down the sets that they had worked so hard on, but I convinced them that they would enjoy putting them back together again and again.

2

BRING OUT THE BINS All our loose pieces and bulk Legos then went into a Rubbermaid bin.

I’ll be honest: It wasn’t a quick process. We spent several weeks sorting the bulk bin by color, shape and size. Lucky for me, I had some eager little helpers for the sorting and organizing process.

BY MANDY GANDHI Mandy Gandhi is a mom of two and owner of BrickSmarts, LLC. She’s always looking for practical and cost-friendly solutions for Lego organization, not just for her two boys, but also for the flourishing clientele of her growing online Tampa-based business, which grew out of the hobby of refurbishing Lego sets. Learn more at BrickSmarts.com 12 TampaBayParenting.com | FEB 2017

When sorting and organizing your Legos, you don’t have to break the bank with fancy organization containers. The good news is that you can use anything that you already have at home. We used medium-sized plastic containers with lids to sort our pieces by color. For the larger pieces I recommend buying a 10-pack of aluminum food storage containers.

These are great because they are reusable, stackable and very inexpensive.

3

SORT SMALL PIECES SEPARATELY I recommend organizing the mini figures and accessories into small bead boxes.

They have individual compartments, which make finding that perfect Lego head or weapon a breeze! Bead boxes are great for storage because they have a locking lid. This way all your hard work isn’t lost if your little Lego fanatic knocks over the box! I also recommend sorting through and creating separate storage for wheels and base plates. This will make it easy when your Master Builder decides to start her next masterpiece.

4

MIX THEM UP Although I like having most of our Lego collection sorted and neatly organized, I feel that it is still important to have a bin of bulk mixed Lego bricks. In my experience, it adds to the creativity and the therapeutic process of sifting through the pile to find that perfect piece.

5

MAKE CLEANUP EASIER Do you hate picking up all those Legos after your little ones are finished building?

Lay down a tablecloth on the floor before you dump out the bin. Once the kids are finished, just pile the bricks on the tablecloth, fold in the corners and there you have it—in lessthan a couple of seconds, cleanup is over (until next time).

Planning Ahead | life + home

*

Planning for the Future special needs children

Many families in our community have children or loved ones with developmental disabilities or special needs.

Families often assume that they can continue to care for their loved ones in perpetuity. The reality is that once a child turns 18 years old, that child becomes an adult. Often, parents will continue to be their child’s voice at the doctor’s office when discussing insurance or medical benefits and in legal and financial affairs; however, a parent or family member no longer has the legal authority to act on behalf of a person who is an adult, regardless of disability or impairment.

Unfortunately, it is generally in an emergency or difficult situation that a parent tries to act on behalf of their child and they are met with, “I am sorry, but I cannot discuss this with you.” Many of my clients care for their children for years and then suddenly a new doctor will not speak to them, or an insurance agent will not discuss a policy with them, until they become the court appointed guardian. For most, it is stressful and confusing.

When faced with this predicament, or for those who are planners, it is necessary to contact an attorney and petition the court to become a court appointed guardian advocate. A guardian advocacy is specifically for people with developmental disabilities and is distinguishable from a power of attorney or general guardianship. Although clients may feel overwhelmed by the process, it is actually quite seamless in Hillsborough County. After gathering the necessary information and submitting the required documents to the court, a hearing will be scheduled within about a month. If everything is in order, the hearing is generally very brief and informal. Once appointed guardian advocate by a judge, the client will be issued a document called “letters of guardianship”, which is not actually a “letter” but a court order signed by a judge. This document allows the guardian advocate to stand in the shoes of his or her loved one with a developmental disability. Thereafter, the guardian advocate will have to complete an eight-hour training class and prepare an annual plan for the disabled person’s care each year.

and treatment. If benefits are interrupted, there may ultimately be a disruption in care, which is too great a risk.

Establishing a special needs trust, also called a supplemental needs trust, is a better alternative to disinheriting a child or trusting that your child’s sibling will “share” the inheritance. This specific type of trust allows a person receiving benefits to receive an inheritance, (in trust), to supplement the cost of his care. A properly drafted, and administered, special needs trust allows the beneficiary to both maintain benefits and to also enjoy the benefit of an inheritance.

A special needs trust must comply with several provisions in the law to be treated as a trust that will not interfere with benefits. Additionally, it must be administered properly, which means that the trustee is restricted in how money is distributed, or how items are purchased, for the beneficiary. Even if the trust agreement is perfectly drafted, improper distribution can result in a loss of benefits for the beneficiary. Therefore, it is very important to consider whether a professional or corporate trustee may be best named in this role. Otherwise, the planning for a special needs trust is similar to general estate planning. The beneficiary is the special needs person and thought must be given to an alternate beneficiary(s) in the event of the death of the special needs beneficiary. The best thing to understand is that disinheriting a loved one who receives need-based benefits is not the only option. A competent estate planning attorney, or an attorney who specializes in this area of law, should be able to create a plan that will include a special needs beneficiary.

Elaine N. McGinnis, Esq., is an Associate of Tampa law firm Wetherington Hamilton, P.A., who sponsored this content. Her practice concentrates on Trusts and Estate Planning, Special Needs Planning, Probate and Trust Administration. She may be reached at ElaineM@whhlaw.com.

For families with loved ones who have developmental disabilities, they must also ensure that their estate planning is unique to their needs. A person with a developmental disability or special needs will most likely be the recipient of government benefits at some point during his lifetime. Many government benefits have strict income and asset limits. Receiving an inheritance may disrupt those benefits. Families may disinherit their child to avoid this outcome because of the importance of consistent care FEB 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 13

* Food + Drink | Responsible Farming

Buckhorn Nursery

Planting a Seed of Stewardship for Future Generations

Alliance for Responsible Environmental Stewardship (CARES) program in 2014.

The CARES program was founded in 2001 by the Florida Farm Bureau Federation and a coalition of farmers, commodity groups, agricultural associations and state and federal agencies to provide public recognition for farmers and ranchers who have voluntarily implemented outstanding nutrient stewardship practices on their operations.

If you’ve ever admired a particularly beautiful ornamental bush in a garden you’re visiting up North, there’s a good chance that plant came from close to home. With more than 4,700 commercial nursery and greenhouse farms in the state, Florida is the second largest state in nursery sales behind only California.

In one of Florida’s oldest and largest production nurseries, four generations work together to produce over 200 varieties of woody ornamentals for consumers from Virginia to Texas, and in the process have broken new ground in caring for the environment.

For more than 57 years, Buckhorn Nursery and the Lambert family have been involved in the nursery business. What started in Hardee County with Ronald and Margaret Lambert in 1959 continued in 1994 when their sons Ron, Harold and Brian took over and shifted the company’s focus to wholesale production. In 1997, grandson Corey Lambert joined his father and uncles on the nursery and, since then, the family-run business has grown from 15 acres to over 120 acres.

For more than 20 of those years, environmental stewardship has grown to be a priority. “It’s important for us to protect the environment because it’s directly responsible for allowing us to make a living,” says Corey Lambert. “We are constantly looking at how we do things to see if we can make any improvements.”

14 TampaBayParenting.com | FEB 2017

The Lamberts implement Best Management Practices (or BMPs), which are science and research-based, field-tested practices that have been determined to be the most effective and practical means for improving water quality and conservation.

Producers who implement BMPs highlight agriculture’s commitment to fostering water conservation and land protection through their continued efforts.

Some BMPs that have been implemented include the use of a tail water recovery system, which allows for the reuse of some of the runoff from previous wetting cycles, and the use of freeze cloth for cold protection, which minimizes the use of water as an alternative for freeze protection.

The Lamberts have also implemented an irrigation system that works with their weather station to make better decisions on when to water. Lambert says: “Implementing BMPs helps us cut cost while improving efficiency and maintaining or increasing production. “The irrigation controls are initiated by weather conditions.

It takes into consideration temperature conditions on site, so we irrigate what the plant needs instead of a general timed watering.”

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has determined that Florida farms conserve more than 10 billion gallons of water per year through the implementation of BMPs, and as a result of their dedication to the preservation of Florida’s natural resources, Buckhorn Nursery was recognized by the County

Lambert said, “The CARES program is important because it gives us the chance to educate people on what we’re doing to protect the land.”

Raising awareness and educating Florida’s consumers on outstanding conservation efforts in agriculture were important points of emphasis for Florida Farm Bureau when they established the CARES program.

To date, the CARES program has recognized over 850 farmers and ranchers across the state, and the “This Farm CARES” sign that was presented to those families serves as a tool to demonstrate that Florida’s farm families are actively involved in protecting our environment and sustaining the beauty and natural habitats of our state.

“It comes from our upbringing,” says Lambert. “We were taught to be mindful of others, take care of our employees, and take care of our land.”

For more information on the CARES program, including recipient profiles and highlight videos: go to thisfarmcares.org

“Family is at the center of everything we do at our farm.�

-Meghan

Photo: Brian Chapman, Florida Dairy Farms

Florida dairy farmers, Brad and Meghan are one of more than 900 Florida farms that have been recognized for their outstanding environmental stewardship.

They proudly provide Florida milk for their family and yours.

www.thisfarmcares.org

Proud sponsor

FEB 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 15

2/28 TBPM

LOVE TO LEARN • LIVE TO SERVE

Accepting Applications Now for the 2017-2018 School Year

2/28 TBPM

Serving Pre-K4 through 8th grade since 1949

2/28 TBPM

Contact us today for a personal tour or for more information 813.870.3262 • www.cks-school.org 3809 W Morrison Ave • Tampa, FL 33629 •

813-915-6455

@ ckslions

2/28 TBPM

Purchase a Valentine Cookie

February 1st-14th

100% of the proceeds will be donated to St. Joseph's Children's Hospital Heart Institute

www.give2stjoeskids.org

A Sweet Way to Show You Care!

Valid at participating Panera Bread bakery cafés owned and operated by Covelli Family Limited Partnership

16 TampaBayParenting.com | FEB 2017

Heart Healthy Recipe | Food + Drink *

strawberry and goat cheese bruschetta RECIPE FROM STRAWBERRY SUE Sue Harrell with the Florida Strawberry Growers Association INGREDIENTS

1 whole baguette 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil Freshly-cracked pepper 1 cup of sliced Florida strawberries 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar 4 ounces fresh goat cheese

Edamame and Penne Salad with Feta Contributed by Guest Editor Kate Sawa SERVES 4; 1 1/2 CUPS PER SERVING INGREDIENTS

4 ounces dried whole-grain penne 2 cups frozen shelled edamame, thawed 1/2 15.5-ounce can no-salt-added black beans, rinsed and drained 1/2 cup chopped green onions 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin preferred) 1 1/2 to 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh rosemary or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed 2 medium garlic cloves, minced 1/8 teaspoon salt 3 ounces low-fat feta cheese, crumbled PREPARATION

Prepare the pasta using the package directions, omitting the salt. Drain in a colander. Run the pasta under cold water for about 20 seconds to stop the cooking process. Drain well in a colander.

Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, stir together the remaining ingredients except the feta. Using a rubber scraper, fold the pasta and feta into the edamame mixture.

Preheat oven to 350°F. Slice baguette into four pieces and then slice each in half, lengthwise. Place the baguette open-faced on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Dust with cracked ground pepper and toast the in the oven until golden brown.

While baguette is toasting toss strawberries, basil and balsamic vinegar in a small bowl. When bread is toasted golden brown, remove from oven and spread goat cheese across each slice. Top goat cheese with prepared strawberries and serve.

Makes eight servings.

Learn more: flastrawberry.com

COOK’S TIP: If you make this salad to enjoy

the next day or have leftovers, squeeze lemon wedges over it just before serving to “brighten” the flavors.

Per Serving: CALORIES 321, TOTAL FAT 10.0 g SATURATED FAT 2.0 g, TRANS FAT 0.0 g, POLYUNSATURATED FAT 2.5 g MONOUNSATURATED FAT 4.5 g, CHOLESTEROL 8 mg, SODIUM 381 mg,CARBOHYDRATES 38 g, FIBER 9 g, SUGARS 6 g, PROTEIN 22 g, DIETARY EXCHANGES 2½ starch, 2 lean

meat

This recipe is reprinted with permission from Healthy Recipes for Your Heart. Copyright © 2016 by the American Heart Association. Available on ShopHeart.org, while supplies last.

FEB 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 17

* Education | STEM at Home

Three favorite ways to bring Stem home from school Fun and easy experiments from the experts

By Anthony Pelaez, MOSI Director of Innovation and Grayson Kamm, MOSI Communications Director

EXPLORE WITH A MAGNIFYING GLASS

One of the best, most under-appreciated tools for kids is a magnifying glass.

Going out into nature and looking at things with a magnifying glass opens up a whole new world for kids. If your kids like collecting leaves and rocks, they’ll find a whole new fascination when they see the details on the leaves and the hidden colors and shapes in the stones—not to mention a worm up close and personal!

Magnifying glasses are inexpensive and easy to find. We have several in our ELEMENTS Gift Shop at MOSI, but they can also be purchased online from various retailers for as little as $5. As the child gets older, you can keep upgrading to more powerful lenses until you eventually step up to a microscope and allow your child to discover all the life that’s hiding in one tiny droplet of water.

BECOME CITIZEN SCIENTISTS

Instead of heading to a theme park on your next day off, how about forming a science team with your family and taking on a real research project? Sound intimidating? It’s not! At nationalgeographic.org, for example, you can become a citizen scientist by counting birds or butterflies in your neighborhood; test the quality of water in pond near your home; or use an app to measure the brightness of the night sky at your home and learn how light pollution makes it tougher to see the stars.

At MOSI, we’ll be doing a day-long BioBlitz in March, where a whole group of kids from our YES! Team youth leadership program will use an app called iNaturalist to take pictures of different creatures. We’ll work together to identify what they find and scientists can use that information to track the populations of animals, see how they migrate, and check whether they’re surviving or struggling.

18 TampaBayParenting.com | FEB 2017

MAKE ROCK CANDY IN YOUR KITCHEN

This is crystal growth in action and it’s good to eat! This one’s a favorite in our Summer Science Camps at MOSI. Here’s what you do, and only with an adult: Heat up water in a pan and keep adding sugar until the mixture is almost syrupy and you just can’t get any more sugar to dissolve in it (that’s called a “super-saturated solution”). Use a candy thermometer to try for a temperature of 200-230 degrees and aim for LOTS OF SUGAR – 2-4 cups of sugar for every 1 cup of water. Add some food coloring if you’d like, then pour your sugar water into a mason jar.

Tie one end of a piece of yarn or kite string around a paperclip (that’s the “seed crystal”) and tie the other end of the string to the middle of a chopstick or pencil. Dangle the string into the jar without letting it touch the sides, cover the opening with wax paper, and let it sit. Within hours, the sugar starts to crystallize on the string, and soon you’ll have tasty rock candy. What happened?

Hot water can hold more sugar than cold water, so as the water cools, the sugar needs some place to go and that string sure looks mighty inviting! And if it doesn’t work? Well, science can be tricky.

Time to try again.

COMMITTED TO EXCELLENCE Corpus Christi Catholic School

Fully accredited by: The Florida Catholic Conference The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools/ Middle States Association

Serving students in Kindergarten through 8th grade

OPEN HOUSE

Thursday, February 2, 2017 8:30 AM – General Meeting/Campus Tours

REGISTRATION

Thursday, February 16, 2017 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM In Parish Office (north side of the Church)              

REGISTRATION Strong faith formation program Thursday, February 12, 2015 Certified, fully credentialed professional staff 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM Outstanding core academic program of studies 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM High standardized test scores In Parish Office (north side of the Church) Collaborative technology lab Teacher to assist students with special needs Full Middle School interscholastic sports program Extensive Community Service Program Graduates accepted at all area private high schools Secure, safe campus Strong school-parent partnership Extended Day program available until 6:00 PM Financial Assistance Available Caring, nurturing environment

Come to our OPEN HOUSE or call for a tour or for a day for your child to shadow another student.

Corpus Christi Catholic School 9715 N. 56th Street Temple Terrace, FL 33617

(813)988-1722 kgreco@cccstt.org website: www.cccstt.org

813.259.6010 @Hillsborough Community College

S U M M E R C A M P S! 10 weeks of FUN!

May 30 - August 4

ELEMENTARY MIDDLE SCHOOL HIGH SCHOOL

To register and find a list of all our camps visit:

www.TampaTraining.com/kids-college

EMPOWERING today’s youth for tomorrow’s SUCCESS!

Hillsborough Community College is an equal access/equal opportunity educational institution

K2 - 6th Grade Visit us at www.hcatampa.org FEB 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 19

* Education | STEM Fair

Hillsborough Regional STEM Fair: Happens February 14 at the Tampa Convention Center MORE THAN 2,300 K-12 STUDENTS

will be competing in the Hillsborough Regional Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Fair this month, which is celebrating its 37th year this year. The children will put their creative skills to work to ask questions, innovate and even solve real problems through science, math, engineering and technology. The projects have come together through collaborations in the classroom with teachers and at home with parents.

Fair competitors come from schools across the area including public, private, charter, home school and virtual schools.

Because the Hillsborough Regional STEM Fair is an Intel International Science and Engineering affiliate fair, students in grades 6-12 also have a chance to represent Hillsborough County at the state, national and international levels.

Best of luck to all!

Did you know the Hillsborough County Regional STEM Fair is one of the largest in the country?

Inspiring a sense of wonder and learning for over 30 years Accepting enrollment for ages 3-12

1603 Gulf Way St. Pete Beach Montessori students: • • • •

Develop a lifelong love of learning Discover concepts for themselves Develop self-discipline & motivation Learn at their own pace

20 TampaBayParenting.com | FEB 2017

montessori-by-sea.org

727-360-7621 Member of AMS & International Montessori Council License # C620076

Call to reserve a space or schedule a private tour of our classrooms.

Learning Environment Engaging, Holistic, Authentic We offer the highest quality Montessori education experience which develops well-rounded students, with a focus on independence, courtesy and respect.

• Individualized academic program, addressing specific needs and goals.

• More than 33 years of experience providing high quality, authentic Montessori education.

• Five spacious acres of beautiful, secure indoor and outdoor environments with a pool.

• Incredibly engaged parent and volunteer community.

Palm Harbor Montessori Academy 2355 Nebraska Avenue Palm Harbor, FL 34683

727-786-1854

PalmHarborMontessori.com Serving Students Ages 12 months - 15 years.

We inspire passionate scholarship and compassionate citizenship, guided by a deep sense of integrity, responsibility, and determination to achieve one’s personal best.

Safety Harbor Montessori Academy 2669 N. McMullen Booth Road Clearwater, FL 33761 (727)724-1767 www.safetyharbormontessori.com 2 yrs. - 8th grade Individual tours available.

Please call for an appointment.

FEB 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 21

* Education | STEM Focus

We asked Larry Plank, STEM Director of Hillsborough County Schools, to share his top STEM toy recommendations for toddlers to high schoolers.

Let’s Get App-y!

LITTLE BITS The Gadgets and Gizmos Starter

Kit provides your child with the tools they need to create more than 16 app-enabled inventions, including thousands more through the online app. Ages 8+. $199.95 THINK & LEARN CODE-A-PILLAR BY FISHER PRICE

Your preschooler will love arranging the code-a-pillar’s segments to send it on a different path! This toy puts their problem solving, planning and critical thinking skills to work. Ages 3-6 $50.00 GOLDIE BLOX The Invention Mansion is

GoldieBlox’s answer to the classic dollhouse! Your little engineer can spend hours creating and building a mansion with balconies, a trap door, zip lines, bridges and more! The Goldie Blox product line has something for every budding engineer! Ages 6+. $59.99 THE MAGIC SCHOOL BUS Chemistry Lab: Your

little scientist can explore and learn through more than 50 experiments with this science lab in a box. They can create sticky ice, create slime, make a bounce ball, and so much more! $39.99

APPS AND TOYS THAT FOCUS ON SCIENCE, TECH, ENGINEERING AND MATH Glazer Children’s Museum president and CEO Jennifer Stancil shares some of her favorite apps for kids: of illustrations so they can see how the TOCA BOCA TEA PARTY: This app allows children to host the tea party and put their imaginations to work as they set the table and serve their guests. $2.99

human body works, discover the forest or manipulate machines and robots. Prices vary. Packages are available.

PBS KIDS GAMES: Your child can choose from

DON’T LET THE PIGEON RUN THIS APP: Your

more than 50 educational games featuring some of their favorite characters from shows like Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, Dinosaur Train, Sesame Street and more!

New games are added weekly. Free

child’s favorite storybook character comes to life in this interactive app that allows your child to create his own stories, draw and more! $5.99

PBS KIDS VIDEO: This app gives your child

Math: Pizza! which not only teaches your children math, but also introduces them to business ownership as they decide how to run their own pizzeria. She also likes Motion Math’s Hungry Guppy ($4.99) and Zoom ($2.99) apps. Motion Math: Pizza $5.99

access to thousands of educational videos and even full episodes of their favorite PBS shows. Free TINY BOP APPS : This interactive app al-

lows your child to interact with layers

MOTION MATH APPS: Stancil loves Motion

Stancil also recommends logging on to CommonSenseMedia.org which has a feature to help you find the best apps for your kids based on ages ranging from 2-18.

BLOXEL VIDEO GAME BUILDER KIT This is a

perfect hands-on game for your child to create and build their own video games using a 13 X 13 game board. Using one block at a time, your child can design their hero and layout a world around this character to create a game of their own. $49.95 OSMO STARTER KIT Osmo is an iPad accessory

that allows your child to interact with the iPad through hands on play whether it’s through art, coding, words and more.

Prices vary. Ages 4+

LITTLE BITS

GOLDIE BLOX

BLOXEL VIDEO GAME BUILDER KIT

OSMO STARTER KIT

DUPLO MY FIRST NUMBER TRAIN

K’NEX

DUPLO MY FIRST NUMBER TRAIN Introduce your

preschooler to numbers and counting with this fun building set. The building possibilities are endless. Ages 1 ½-5. $19.99 K’NEX Playtime with K’Nex will fire up

your child’s imagination as they build and create working machines, model cars and more! Ages 7+. Prices vary.

22 TampaBayParenting.com | FEB 2017

L

LS

BO

OUR CHARTER

SCHOOLS

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY

TUITION FREE public charter schools

U

HI

NT

Y

OUR C

LS OO

RTER SCH HA

ROUGH

CO

Greatness Starts Here.

We Take Your Child’s Education Personally Every student deserves to be treated as an individual. Our personal learning plans meet students where they are and help them grow.

Start your student on the path to greatness.

PROUD MEMBER OF THE

We are tuition-free public charter schools. Accredited by AdvancED, and proud members of the Charter Schools USA family of schools.

Learn more at ww.CharterSchoolsUSA.com

APPLY TODAY! Space is filling up quickly.

Visit our website at www.HillsboroughCharterSchools.org FEB 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 23

24 TampaBayParenting.com | FEB 2017

Excellence

CHRISTIAN

SCHOOL

A National Blue Ribbon School

Tours available at 10 a.m. on Thursdays or by appointment.

Excellence in Academic Achievement & Spiritual Formation Teaching the Mind

Reaching the Heart

www.westlakechristianschool.org

A Ministry of Palm Harbor United Methodist Church

|

727.781.3808

Accreditation - Florida Council of Independent Schools, Florida Kindergarten Council, & Southern Association of Colleges and Schools/AdvancED

FEB 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 25

*

Beauty + Style | What’s in your bag, Grace Patton?

February Guest Editor Kate Sawa’s favorite product right now-

Grace Patton

creator of lifestyle and parenting blog CampPatton.com answers

“LOVE MY SUGAR TINTED LIP BALM. IT’S FEELS LIKE SPA TREATMENT FOR YOUR LIPS WITH JUST THE RIGHT AMOUNT OF COLOR.”

Grace Patton is a fairly new transplant to Tampa from St. Louis but she never wants to leave. She has five kids, one husband, one dog and one blog (www.camppatton.com) where she chronicles life with all of the above.

“I have to admit that my diaper bag is littered with granola bar wrappers and receipts galore, but I do guard a few staples with my life and away from my 2-year-old.”

WIPES

I’ve tried them all and prefer Kirkland (Costco brand) wipes.

Even my husband, who rarely has much to say about baby gear, swears they are the best. I use them for face washes, carseat wipe downs and everything in between.

MY BAG OF CHOICE

I’m a longtime fan of Lily Jade diaper bags due to their quality, versatility and classic styles. I would give every new mom one if I could because I know it would be the first and last bag they ever use.

LIP CARE

HAND LOTION

HEADPHONES

RX BARS

I recently discovered Balm Dotcom from Glossier and am totally hooked. It’s great for dry patches of winter skin and your cuticles as well.

I got this in a recent beauty box and love the scent. With so many diaper changes and hand washes on the go, I can’t live without lotion, especially during the winter months.

I love listening to books and podcasts and never know when I’ll be able to snag a quick five minutes to listen, so it’s nice to know where they are at all times.

I keep a few of these in my bag in case we are out longer than anticipated. All my kids love them and I love that they have added protein to keep us all full for a little bit longer.

26 TampaBayParenting.com | FEB 2017

Photos of Grace Patton by Laura Foote

MAKE LOSS SIMPLE WEIGHT

Lose up to 10 pounds your first week and up 20 pounds your first month!†

BEFORE

TAMPA 4039 W. Kennedy Blvd.

Tampa, FL 33609

Patrice, actual Tampa patient, lost 30 pounds!†

813.473.8501

MediWeightloss.com † On average, patients compliant with the Medi-Weightloss® Program lose 6.4 pounds the first week and 14 pounds the first month. Rapid weight loss may be associated with certain medical conditions and should only be considered by those who are medically appropriate. © 2017 Medi IP, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

FEB 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 27

*

Beauty + Style | Designer: Ann Lowe

Celebrating Black History Month

Recognizing and Honoring Achievements by African Americans The Tampa-Hillsborough County Library System and Glazer Children’s Museum are teaming up for a month-long celebration of the accomplishments of African Americans in the Tampa Bay community through a temporary exhibit called Tampa Stories.

AMONG THE PEOPLE BEING RECOGNIZED IS WORLD FAMOUS CLOTHING DESIGNER ANN LOWE. She is most well-known

for designing Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy’s wedding gown for her marriage to then-senator John F. Kennedy.

In the 1920s, she was a highly sought after designer for the women of high society in Tampa. One of her dresses, designed for the 1926 Gasparilla Queen Katherine Broaderus, is currently on display at the Henry B. Plant Museum as part of its “Gasparilla: A Tampa Tradition” which is open to the public through Feb. 26.

The Tampa Stories exhibit is now open during museum hours. Learn more: glazermuseum.org

28 TampaBayParenting.com | FEB 2017

Nursing Style | Beauty + Style

*

Nursing Queen solves a universal dilemma LOCAL MOM AND FORMER TV REPORTER LAUNCHES BREASTFEEDING CLOTHING LINE What do you do when you’re a new breastfeeding mom and can’t find any nursing clothes you like? You create them!

That’s what nursing mom Quinn Reitz did prompted by the frustration she felt when she was trying to breastfeed her then-infant son on a blazing hot Florida day. At 3 months, he just wanted to nurse and be held in his baby carrier, strapped to his mom.

“I would walk Bayshore Boulevard to get him to sleep, and we were both so hot.

I couldn’t stand to wear anything but a tank top. But all of my nursing tanks were more like pajamas – inappropriate to wear in public,” Reitz said.

She searched local stores and the internet for a nursing tank with more coverage but came up empty handed, unable to find any loose fitting, cotton nursing shirts.

“The clingy, rayon tops were cute with my baby bump, but not so much after giving birth,” Reitz explained. “All I wanted was a nice tank top with built-in padding that I could wear to Target!”

Fed up with the lack of options, Reitz, a former TV reporter, began designing, creating and launching her own nursing clothing line. She and her husband, WTSP Morning Anchor Ian Reitz, put their research skills to work, learning everything they could about the clothing industry and launching a business.

A self-confessed perfectionist, Reitz took two years to finalize her designs. She attended classes at a textile expo in Miami and began ordering samples of fabrics from all over the country to determine which ones could withstand multiple wash and dry cycles. Once she had her fabric, she picked a small manufacturer in Oldsmar with whom she created her first prototypes. She eventually moved the operations to a larger factory in New York City. During the process, she tested her designs on more than a dozen women throughout the Bay area.

1

2

The clothing line, Nursing Queen (nursingqueen.com), launched in December 2016 with two styles of nursing hoodies, along with a clip-down nursing tank top – designed for both regular and full busts. Reitz is currently working on a t-shirt with a built-in bra and a bathing suit for the summer line.

“If these clothes make one mom’s life a little easier or help her feel better about herself - that would be more gratifying than anything else I've ever done,” Reitz said.

3

Reitz doesn’t have any plans to get back into TV news—she says this opportunity to help other breastfeeding moms is her new passion. Besides, she may be too busy for her old job, filling orders as she keeps up with her now 2-year-old son.

HOODIES (1 & 2) “If these clothes make one mom’s life a little easier or help her feel better about herself - that would be more gratifying than anything else I’ve ever done,”

- QUINN REITZ, CREATOR NURSING QUEEN

QUINN REITZ

A relaxed fit hoodie that doesn’t cling but still has shape! These nursing tops are made out of high quality, medium weight, loop terry fabric from Los Angeles. It will keep you warm but won’t sweat you out!

TANK TOP (3) A nursing tank with a built-in bra and SEWN-IN bra pads (light padding to help absorb and give coverage). You could actually wear this out of the house! This tank/cami has a higher neckline to conceal the cleavage, longer length, and washes and dries like a dream. Form fitting but not super tight.

FEB 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 29

* Health + Wellness | Ask the Doctor

Q&A

with Dr. Jill Hechtman, M.D. FACOG, Medical Director Tampa Obstetrics Q: There are so many options for prenatal vitamins! Are all prenatal vitamins created equal?

A: Technically, no, they are not the same.

They can be chewable, in gummy form, have different concentrations of specific vitamins and fish oils, and some are made to be easier on the stomach than others. That being said, vitamins that are in the United States do have the necessary added vitamins that are needed for a healthy pregnancy. The most important vitamins are: Iron, calcium and folic acid.

Q: What is delayed umbilical cord clamping?

A: Once a baby has been delivered, the umbilical cord must be clamped and cut to separate mom and baby. In the past, early clamping was defined as within 1 minute of birth and late clamping was defined as after 5 minutes. Recently, it was recommended that in preterm infants (less than 37 weeks), we delay cord clamping for at least 30 seconds and ideally, 60 seconds, when conditions are appropriate. This delay allows for an increase in the amount of blood that gets to the baby from the mom.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has released a new Committee Opinion that it appears to be beneficial to delay cord clamping in all infants.

clamping could be jaundice. In most hospitals, mechanisms are in place to identify and treat neonatal jaundice.

In certain instances, doctors are unable to delay cord clamping. Examples would be in cases where the umbilical cord is tight around the baby’s neck, and in times of fetal distress.

In babies born at term, the delayed cord clamping appears to improve hemoglobin levels and improves iron stores in the first several months of life. Improved iron stores may have a favorable effect on development of the infant. In premature infants, the benefits are the same plus it improves circulation and red blood cell volume, and leads to fewer blood transfusions and a lower incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis and intraventricular hemorrhage. Delayed cord clamping can be done whether you have a vaginal delivery or a cesarean section.

In term infants, one of the risks that can be associated with delaying the cord

30 TampaBayParenting.com | FEB 2017

Iron is necessary to improve your hemoglobin, which helps carry oxygen in your body, and prevents anemia. Calcium helps build strong bones in the baby and prevents maternal bone loss, and folic acid is beneficial in preventing neural tube defects like spina bifida. Depending on your health history and diet, your doctor may recommend additional supplementation.

I think it is important to note that a healthy diet should provide the majority of the vitamins needed for a healthy pregnancy. When taking your prenatal vitamins it is best to start taking them before you conceive. Ideally, three months will provide adequate stores of vitamins in your body. So for women of childbearing age, it does not hurt to take a daily prenatal vitamin. There are hundreds of different prenatal vitamins on the market, so discuss with your healthcare provider which is best for you, keeping in mind that expensive does not always equal better.

WITH DR. JILL HECHTMAN Dr. Jill Hechtman is medical director of Tampa Obstetrics, board certified by the American Board Of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, former Board of Trustees member at HCA Hospital Brandon and Chairman of Obstetrics and Gynecology at St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital. Dr. Jill is a frequent medical contributor on News Channel 8. She lives in Tampa with her husband Jason, a breast surgeon, and their daughter, Emma. Dr. Jill and her daughter share a love of horses.

Is Your Child Ready for School?

You and your child are invited to an Early Childhood (PreK3 and PreK4) evaluation and informational session about school readiness.

February 7 or April 11 9:00-10:00am

Small School. Big Opportunities.

Learn more & RSVP at www.bit.ly/ready4prek

PreK3 through High School

You Matter Here.

TM

academyatthelakes.org | 813-909-7919

FEB 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 31

PICTURE YOURSELF AT THE

FLORIDA STATE FAIR FEBRUARY 9-20

FREE WITH ADMISSION! • SWEET: A Tasty Journey • K-9s in Flight • Sea Lion Splash; Welde’s Big Bear Show • Petting Zoo & Giraffic Exotic Menagerie • Meet Shopkins Characters Kooky Cookie and Apple Blossom!

• Circus Hollywood Under the Big Top • Coloring Wall • Racing Pigs • Butterfly Encounter

FREE PARKING!

S AVE T IME AND B UY O NLINE AT F LORIDAS TATEF AIR. COM 32 TampaBayParenting.com | FEB 2017

Inside Look | Health + Wellness

A Modern Marvel

*

New Jewish Community Center mixes fitness with fun on a historic Tampa site WHEN YOU’RE SITTING DOWN to a gourmet

dinner at your daughter’s Bat Mitzvah, lounging with your family in one of the pool cabanas at the Mezrah Family Aquatic Center, or watching your son throw a pot in the Roberta M. Golding Visual Arts Center art studio, consider the illustrious historical company you’re in at the Bryan Glazer Family Jewish Community Center (BGFJCC). Pink Floyd and Elvis Presley performed here. Fans roared for championship wrestlers here.

Four days before his assassination, John F Kennedy gave a speech here. And now, hundreds of Tampa families will become part of that history when they become part of the iconic Bryan Glazer Family JCC. Lovingly conceptualized and meticulously designed, the Bryan Glazer Family Jewish Community Center stands as a beacon to Tampa’s future on the site of the city’s history, the former Fort Homer Hesterly Armory.

The facility was entirely transformed, turning the existing 83,500-squarefeet of vacant space, which was once an armory facility for the National guard and later an entertainment venue, into a 100,000-square-feet-plus community center that offers families and community members of all ages a wealth of leisure and health activities.

For families, the Bryan Glazer JCC is set to become the ultimate destination in Tampa Bay, with year-round after-school programs and immersive summer day camps for children in grades 1-8. The Mezrah Family Aquatic Center especially promises to be a draw, with a splash pad, an 8-lane 25-yard competition lap pool, a warm-water, zero-entry therapy pool, a heated spa, dedicated family swim times overseen by certified lifeguards, a family changing area and locker

rooms with towel service and poolside cabanas. Aquatics programming includes swimming lessons from 6 months upwards and experienced swimmers can join swim teams and clubs.

For those who prefer to stay dry, there’s parent/child yoga, boot camps and volleyball, kickball, basketball, pickleball and dodgeball leagues. Kids can also participate in specially-tailored group fitness classes that let them blow off steam doing Zumba or learning zombie fighting kickboxing skills. And while parents take advantage of classes in everything from Pilates to Krav Maga, they can do so with complete peace of mind knowing that the facility offers free babysitting for kids ages 6 weeks to age 11 onsite at the BGFJCC’s J Care.

With health at the forefront of the center’s agenda, the fitness center boasts state-ofthe-art cardio and weight equipment with personal viewing screens, free weights, strength training equipment and more than 55 classes a week with highly trained hand-picked instructors in everything from yoga and Pilates to group cycling and Gasparilla 5K training. Personal and small-group training is offered along with these lessons.

The 7,500-square-foot Roberta M. Golding Visual Arts Center is the cultural

hub of the facility, with nine indoor kilns, pottery wheels and studios offering classes in everything from ceramic sculpture and stained glass to watercolor and printmaking. For adults, there are ballroom dancing lessons, drum circles and bridge sessions, film series, cooking lessons, round table discussions about topics du jour and a full calendar of holiday and special events. With more than 11,000 square feet of meeting space—including an elegant ballroom— the BGFJCC is poised to become the grand dame of local venues, promising to host a lifetime of a family’s events from baby’s first birthday to her wedding, in true Tampa style.

BY ANU VARMA PANCHAL When Anu isn’t writing, editing or volunteering on the board of her kids' PTA, she’s usually in her minivan driving her two daughters (11 and 8) around Tampa to school and their activities.

Although her idea of the ultimate good time is usually found between the pages of a book, Anu also enjoys yoga, her book club, travel, theater and area food and music festivals.

FEB 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 33

* Health + Wellness | Autism

Autism Spectrum behavioral treatments Children on the autism spectrum sometimes also exhibit symptoms of anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression or another mood disorder. For example, more than 50 percent of youth on the autism spectrum also have significant anxiety. “There are many reasons the rates are so high,” says Josh Nadeau, PhD, clinical supervisor, Rogers Behavioral Health–Tampa Bay. “Often high functioning kids on the autism spectrum realize they act differently in social situations than other children, and this becomes a major source of stress and anxiety.” Many kids simply become sad feeling that no matter what they do, there’s no way they can fit in.

WHAT TO EXPECT IN TREATMENT COMPREHENSIVE AND INDIVIDUALIZED CARE

Through the University of South Florida, Nadeau and Eric Storch, PhD, clinical director, Rogers–Tampa Bay, are conducting federally funded research to identify effective treatments for youth with ASD and co-occurring mental health issues.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN YOUR CHILD The symptoms of co-occurring mental health problems vary, but Nadeau says common signs include:

• Lots of time spent discussing people, places, or activities that cause distress • Unusually avoidant or “clingy” behaviors, or difficulty separating from loved ones • Compulsive or repetitive behaviors Significant fears of different situations Unceasing worry • Increased irritability or unusually cranky behavior • Decrease or loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities • Unexpected changes in weight or appetite • Sleeping less or sleeping all the time, for at least several days • More fidgety than normal, or moving and talking very slowly • Unexplained increase in feelings of worthlessness, guilt or negative self-talk “When you see things like these, it’s a sign that you and your child should consult a professional,” says Nadeau.

“Youth on the spectrum have unique needs, and the traditional programming that’s available through most professionals does not meet these needs,” says Nadeau. “Working with hundreds of families of children and adolescents with ASD, we have found many strategies that help us really reach these youth and significantly improve their lives, and the lives of their families.”

For this reason, Rogers–Tampa Bay will begin offering a new treatment option through the Anxiety and Mood Disorders for ASD partial hospital program for children and adolescents. The program will offer treatment to youth ages 6-18 who are on the autism spectrum and also have anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression or other mood disorders.

“It’s important to know we’re not treating autism through this program, but we’re giving kids the skills and resilience they need to decrease their anxiety or depressive symptoms,” says Nadeau. “We’ll also give parents a lot of information about their child’s mental health and will help prepare them to work with their child in a more effective way.”

Depending on your child’s unique situation, programming will include a variety of treatment components that have proven to be effective.

• Exposure therapy • Cognitive therapy • Family therapy • Behavioral activation • Dialectical behavior therapy skills • Social skills training • Experiential therapy • Psychiatric assessment and medication management • Patient and family education “Social skills training is based on the idea that one of the best ways to learn is by doing,” says Nadeau. “Social coaching helps your child practice social skills in an applied situation—such as where and when to introduce themelves. Family plays a key role. “We model for parents the therapeutic skills they need to use with their children, allow the parents to practice it at home, and receive feedback the next day about how it went.”

“Generally speaking, it depends on how your child feels about what they’re doing.

For example, if he or she very much enjoys having a schedule or routine, and gets irritated when things aren’t going the way they’d hoped or expected, this is more likely a core symptom of ASD,” he says. “But if it seems like your child is agitated or scared any time they do not have a schedule or routine to follow, and does all that he or she can to gain a greater understanding of what’s about to happen, that’s more likely a symptom of anxiety or OCD. Kids with anxiety or OCD don’t want to engage in these behaviors, but they feel they must do so to prevent something bad from happening.”

WITH DR. JOSHUA NADEAU, PHD, CLINICAL SUPERVISOR, ROGERS BEHAVIORAL HEALTH–TAMPA BAY To learn more about the anxiety and mood disorders for ASD partial hospital program for children and adolescents, or other treatment options at Rogers Behavioral Health–Tampa Bay, visit rogersbh.org or call 813-498-6400.

34 TampaBayParenting.com | FEB 2017

Rediscover...

Life. Worth. Living.

If your child struggles with an eating disorder or OCD and anxiety, Rogers Behavioral Health–Tampa Bay can help.

Call 844-220-4411 or visit rogersbh.org to request a confidential screening.

Coming March 2017: New programs for teens with mood disorders, and for kids and teens with anxiety and mood disorders on the autism spectrum.

Wisconsin

|

Florida

|

Illinois

|

Minnesota

|

Tennessee

We Are...

Tampa Bay Parenting CA ad January 2015

Happy. Secure. Inspired.

A Nationally Recognized

Blue Ribbon School

Since 1968

• Grades 4-12

Northside Christian Elementary

• ADHD & LD

Academic

AP, Dual Enrollment, Honors Classes 70% of Graduates Received College Scholarship Offers

• Fully Accredited

fine arts

• College Prep

Award Winning Band and Choir Elementary through AP Art

• Scholarships

Athletics

State Qualifiers in Multiple Sports FHSAA 2015 Rozelle Sportsmanship Award Recipient

Family

Safe, Nurturing Environment Christ-Centered School of Excellence

We Are.. .

7777 62nd Avenue N St Petersburg, FL 33709

727-541-7593

Preschool through 12th Grade on one 28-acre campus • www.nck12.com

Pinellas Park Palm Harbor Lutz Riverview

727 541-5716 727 781-2986 813 909-9442 813 677-7777

www.CenterAcademy.com “You are all miracle workers and I am so grateful!”

Laura R., Parent

FEB 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 35

* Health + Wellness | Your Heart

Take Care of your heart JOIN GO RED FOR WOMEN FOR NATIONAL WEAR RED DAY ON FEBRUARY 3 to show your support for the prevention of heart disease and stroke.

Learn more: GoRedForWomen.org/WearRedDay The statistics are alarming. According to the American Heart Association, cardiovascular diseases are responsible for 1 in 3 deaths of women each year. 1 in 3. You don’t have to be a statistic because 80% of cardiovascular disease are preventable with simple lifestyle changes.

This topic is so important, it’s the reason we chose Kate Sawa, executive director of the American Heart Association of Tampa Bay, to be our February guest editor. Education is key to give women, and men, the best chance at survival.

“Women need to be an advocate for their own health,” said Sawa. It is important to eat a healthy diet, exercise and not smoke.

It’s also important for women to know their numbers and to make sure that they are in a healthy range. The numbers include your blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol, BMI and weight.

Be your own advocate and be the champion for other women in your life and encourage them to be heart healthy. Our lives depend on it.

F.A.S.T. HOW TO SPOT A STROKE

A

S

Face drooping

Arm weakness

Speech difficulty

T

Source: American Heart Association Learn more: strokeassociation.org

SIGNS OF A HEART ATTACK

• PAIN OR DISCOMFORT in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.

• SHORTNESS OF BREATH with or without chest discomfort.

36 TampaBayParenting.com | FEB 2017

2

KNOW YOUR NUMBERS! Make an

appointment for an annual physical to discuss your health with your doctor today.

AIM FOR AT LEAST 30 MINUTES OF MODERATE EXERCISE a day, five times a week. You

can even divide up exercise time into 10-15 minute increments to better fit a busy schedule!

TRY TO AVOID STRESS. Try meditation,

yoga and/or exercise.

WATCH THE SALT! Aim to limit your daily

sodium intake to 1,500 mg or less.

AIM FOR 5 SERVINGS A DAY OF FRUITS AND VEGETABLES. Can’t curb the

cravings for high calorie treats?

Eat a very small portion to prevent the temptation to give in and overindulge.

Time to call 911 and get to a hospital immediately.

Every minute a stroke is left untreated, nearly 2 million brain cells die. A quick response to stroke not only minimizes the chance of disability, but helps preserve quality of life.

• UNCOMFORTABLE PRESSURE , squeezing, fullness or pain in the center of your chest. It lasts more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back.

1

3 4 5

A few seconds could save a life, possibly your own. Know the signs.

F

FIVE SIMPLE CHANGES YOU CAN MAKE TODAY FOR A HEALTHIER HEART:

• Other signs such as BREAKING OUT IN COLD SWEAT, nausea or lightheadedness.

• WOMEN ARE SOMEWHAT MORE LIKELY THAN MEN to experience some of the other common symptoms, particular shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting and back or jaw pain.

Did you know cardiovascular diseases like heart disease and stroke kill nearly 1 in 3 women each year? 80% of cardiovascular diseases may be preventable through education and lifestyle behaviors.

NOW OPEN

Cortez Blvd

ER 24/7 in Palm Harbor ribbon cutting

Hudso

Little Rd

n Av

Conveniently located on US 19 in Palm Harbor at Fox Chase Blvd. just north of Alderman Road

Port Richey

52

Ridge

Rd ERPalmHarbor.com

24/7 Emergency Room for Adults and Kids Grand Blvd

Marine Pkwy.

Little Rd

ER 24/7 offers easy, convenient access to emergency care with all the resources you need for acute care of a New Port Richey care center, this full-service serious illness or injury. Providing more advanced emergency services than an urgent ER also accepts patients via ambulance and has on site CT Scan, Ultrasound, X-ray54 and Laboratory services.

ER 24/7 is staffed by physicians Board Certified in Emergency Care and nurses with emergency care H experience and certifications.

Holiday

Tarpon Springs

Tarpon S

prings R

d

Hwy

Klosterman Rd

Alderman Rd

Tampa Rd Curlew Rd

McMullen Booth

• Convenient access to home, school or work • Shorter wait times • Same services and level of care consistent with a traditional hospital emergency department • Warm and inviting clinical environment • Separate pediatric reception area • Telemedicine capabilities • Allows first responders to return to the field quicker • National Certifications through Medical Center of Trinity:

Gunn

Benefits

35750 US 19 North | Palm Harbor, FL 34684

Main ERPalmHarbor.com St | 727-789-8420

FEB 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 37

H

they’re coming.

PARK ZOO Y R W O L ’S A P M TA

For the first time in 65 million years, dinosaurs will take over Tampa Bay and will be roaming the Zoo all day, every day. Coming late February.

INCLUDED WITH ADMISSION

PAY FOR A DAY, REST OF YEAR FREE!

Sink your teeth into this great deal at tlpz.org/dinos

38

Purchase your membership now for a members-only preview February 17-24.

Enjoy an entire year of great benefits and seasonal events!

TampaBayParenting.com | FEB 2017

Lowry Park Zoo | Family Fun

Experience unforgettable natural connections

*

TAMPA’S LOWRY PARK ZOO

PREFER TO EXPLORE THE SAHARA OR THE JUNGLE?

Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo is famous for having one of the most beautiful tropical wildlife zoological settings in the world. It is an unforgettable destination that brings together animals and families to create natural, up-close connections. At the Zoo, kids can get closer to wildlife than ever before by touching a giant tortoise, feeding a giraffe, getting hand-to-fin with slippery stingrays, walking with wallabies and so much more.

Visit some of the world’s finest animals up close – African elephants, zebras, penguins, white rhinos, pygmy hippos, meerkats and so much more. Meet Africa’s newest resident on your safari adventure, Southern white rhino Kipenzi. Stand on the feeding plateau of Safari Africa and get eye-to-eye with the tallest animal in the world: the giraffe.

FAMILIES CAN EXPLORE the world in a single

day at the Zoo. Start your adventure by strolling down the Florida Boardwalk, home to your favorite local species: Florida panthers, Florida black bears and American alligators. Love Florida manatees? The Zoo is the only place in Tampa Bay where you are guaranteed to see manatees year round! At the David A. Straz Jr. Manatee Hospital, the Zoo’s veterinary and animal-care staff treat sick, injured and orphaned manatees, and return them to the wild after full recovery. At the hospital overlook, watch conservation at work as the Zoo’s expert staff treat the gentle giants before your very eyes. Underwater viewing windows in the Manatee & Aquatic Center let you get nose-to-nose with the magnificent creatures.

NEXT, JOURNEY TO ASIAN GARDENS , home to

sloth bears and clouded leopards. Meet the Zoo’s newest Zoo baby, Berisi, the first Malayan tiger cub born at the Zoo. Did you know there are only 250 Malayan tigers left in the wild? Malayan tapir calf Tengahari lives next door to Berisi. Swing into Primate World to visit with Bornean orangutans, chimpanzees and brilliantly-colored mandrills. You can witness daily enrichments and exercises that encourage natural foraging behaviors.

FANCY A WALK-ABOUT WITH A WALLABY? Or a

close encounter with a koala? Then visit Tampa’s own “land down under,” Wallaroo Station! This Australia-themed family area provides hours of enjoyment and discovery for little ones, including an interactive petting zoo and free rides, and don’t forget to pack your bathing suit for a splashing good time in the water play area!

ding njoy fee really e xperience ll a e W “ ee ffes. Th n e of the gira that close to o g r th of gettin animals on ea t s ing e n ll n ta the ’re stu g . T h ey k out is thrillin d we get a kic .” n a ues ls g a n anim black to g n lo e of thos aw a , – Kate S uest Editor yG r a Febru

BRAND NEW THIS YEAR AND FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY is Dinos Alive! at Tampa’s Lowry

Park Zoo. For the first time in 65 million years, dinosaurs will take over Tampa Bay and roam the Zoo every day. Be surrounded by life-size dinosaurs and get up-close and personal with varying species of dinosaurs that move, roar and interact with you. Zoo explorers will find ancient creatures ranging from the treacherous Tyrannosaurus, one of the largest and most powerful predators, to the towering Brachiosaurus, an 18-foot tall herbivore.

Kids will explore through the eyes of a Paleontologist and learn fun facts about how dinosaurs lived and how we can help save present-day species of wildlife from extinction. They’ll also feast with Dino-sized food and drinks. Children will become junior paleontologists as they dig for dino fossils and mine for gems.

For an even more incredible, once in a lifetime moment, HAVE A NOSE-TO-HORN INTERACTION WITH AN INDIAN RHINOCEROS , a rare species vulnerable to extinction – coming in spring, 2017.

FEB 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 39

NDER KIDS 12 & U

E E FADR MISSION LIVE MUSIC

40 TampaBayParenting.com | FEB 2017

+ FREE ADMISSION TO THE GLAZER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

ALL DAY SUNDAY MARCH 12

INTERACTIVE KIDS ZONE

INSTRUMENT PETTING ZOO

AND LOTS MORE!

TAMPA BAY’S BEST STAYCATIONS

Staycation Tips | Family Fun

So you want to travel with your kids, but you can’t get enough time off from work or the kids have so many activities it’s hard to get away. We get it; but a staycation can be as little as one night away.

And, sometimes our kids need to get away as much as we do.

Whether it’s camping, the beach or a city getaway, here are three fun staycation ideas in the Tampa Bay Area the kids will love.

BEACH BUMS

What kid doesn’t want to go down a huge inflatable slide? This staycation allows parents to relax on St. Petersburg beach while kids enjoy activities you usually find at a theme park. The Tradewinds Island Resorts on St. Pete Beach has a 200-foot long slide that’s three stories high. And the best news for parents? It’s included in the resort amenity fee so the kids can go down it as many times as they’d like. This kid friendly resort also offers “Dive-In Movies” where kids and adults can grab a raft to watch a feature film on Island Grand’s inflatable big screen at the resort’s beachfront pool. Your kids will also love the KONK Activities center, where they can create crafts like a beach candle. There’s even a painting studio.

BIG CITY LIGHTS

Downtown Tampa can be a fantastic destination for the entire family. Even if you live in South Tampa, don’t rule out staying the night at a downtown hotel. It will give you a chance to explore family friendly activities that visitors travel here to enjoy. At Curtis Hixon Park, you can enjoy a family picnic and enjoy the park playground while taking in beautiful water views and city views.

Right next to Curtis Hixon Park, you’ll find the Glazer Children’s Museum where kids can learn and play at the same time.

On hot days, head for Water Works Park, a riverfront park with beautiful green space, a playground and a splash pad for children. Downtown is also home to the Florida Aquarium (ranked in the top 10 aquariums by Tripadvisor), a place the kids 6 and older can actually swim with

*

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Camping isn’t always what the adults have in mind. In fact, I’m more of a City Mommy, but here’s a way you can take the kids camping with the city still close by. Fort De Soto Park in Pinellas County has been named one of America’s best beaches, but it also has a waterfront campground. The 238-site family camping area has picnic tables, grills, play areas for kids and even a camp store. So pack your tent or rent a VW camper if you’d like to stay the night. Don’t worry, mom and dad: They’ve got restrooms and showers too. So pack your marshmallows and chocolate bars so you and the kiddos can enjoy s’mores over the campfire while getting some quality family time you can’t buy. Trust me; this one is a fun adventure they won’t forget.

the fish, and those 15 and up who are scuba certified can be more daring and swim with sharks. Still have energy to spare? Try stand-up paddle boarding, electric boating or renting a bike ride along The Riverwalk using Tampa’s very own ride sharing program. In the evening, catch a show at the David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts.

There’s so much to do as a family on this staycation, there’s no doubt you will have to come back again.

ANNA TATARIS DE JESUS Anna is an Emmy-nominated television journalist with a passion for traveling with her family. After spending 15 years on camera, Anna decided to give up hard news for travel reporting. In 2012, De Jesus and husband Roy, also an Emmy-nominated television journalist, created “The Great Escape Plan” to travel Europe with their daughter Sophia and son Nikolas. Together they create videos for social media and their website The Great Escape Plan.com in the hope of inspiring other families to travel “family style.”

FEB 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 41

* What’s Happening | Around Town

Around Town Highlights from around the bay

GASPARILLA BLOCK PARTY AT HYDE PARK VILLAGE

Collier Kamm, son of MOSI Communications Director Grayson Kamm

FLORIDA HOSPITAL CARROLLWOOD opens new

Surgical Center and hosts community ribbon cutting event. Picture #1: Florida Hospital Carrollwood’s President & CEO, Joe Johnson, alongside with leadership and staff officially open their new Surgical Center.

FLORIDA HOSPITAL NORTH PINELLAS’S NEW PALM HARBOR ER. Florida Hospital North PinelPLAYOFF GREEN EVENT AT BAILEY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN DOVER. The sustainability program is

in partnership with College Football Playoff, Gerdau Long Steel North America and Hillsborough County Schools. Ten schools received the opportunity to find ways to make their school go ‘green’. Photo credit: James Levya with TheSkyBoat

las’s President & CEO, Patricia Williams with leadership and staff at the ribbon cutting event for the new Palm Harbor Emergency Room.

THE BOYS FROM THE SIGMA BETA fraternity’s

Auxillary Club took part in the January 15th MLK Dream Big Parade and Family Fun Day in St. Petersburg which featured Bucs quarterback Jameis Winston as the Grand Marshall and the FAMU and Tuskegee University Marching Bands.The Family Fun Day Blue Zone Bounce Houses were sponsored by the Phi Beta Sigma fraternity.

YE MYSTIC KREWE OF GASPARILLA

Pirates invade local pre-schools.

42 TampaBayParenting.com | FEB 2017

TAKE A SPIN ON THE NEW

PAY FOR A DAY

PLAY ALL YEAR Buy a Busch Gardens Fun Card and get an Adventure Island Fun Card FREE.

Limited time offer. Quantities limited. © 2017 SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Inc. All rights reserved.

FEB 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 43

Come see what the Patel Conservatory has to offer this summer!

FREE

©Disney

©Disney

FUN • SNACKS • PERFORMANCES • CLASSES

DANCE For all ages

R T H E AT E S P M CA

FEB 16-19 TECO Theater

VOCAL & INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC INTENSIVES

tickets start at $15*.

SAT • FEB 25 • 10AM-2PM Register for summer camps and classes

by MAR 11 and receive 10% OFF!

PROFESSIONALLY PRODUCED STUDENT PERFORMED

PATEL CONSERVATORY

@STRAZ CENTER

813.229.STAR(7827) patelconservatory.org

*Handling fees will apply. Events, days, dates, times, performers and prices are subject to change without notice.

44 TampaBayParenting.com | FEB 2017

News from Around the Bay | What’s Happening

KNIGHT PARADE NAMES BUCS AS GRAND MARSHALS

The 2017 Krewe of Sant’ Yago Knight Parade will feature the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as grand marshals. A Tampa tradition since the 1970s, this illuminated parade takes to the streets of historical Ybor City Saturday, Feb. 11 and will be telecast on MOR-TV. The Glazer Family Foundation joins the Tampa Bay Buccaneer players, coaches, mascots and street team members as special guests. This year’s parade launches at 7 p.m. as illuminated floats travel down Seventh Avenue, accompanied by dozens of marching bands, local dignitaries and thousands of participants. Proceeds from the Knight Parade benefit the Krewe of the Knights of Sant’ Yago Education Foundation, which has provided more than $2 million in higher education scholarships for deserving local students. For more information, go to knightparade.com.

*

GIRL SCOUT COOKIES GOES 5 FOR 5

Girl Scout cookie sales are in full swing with Digital Cookie online sales and booth sales launching this month. The Girl Scouts of West Central Florida (GSWCF) remind Bay area families that its 5 for 5 program gives Scouts and their troops a chance to increase cookie sales and customers a fun contest. When people purchase 5 boxes of cookies, they are given a 5 for 5 receipt with a code for a chance to win 5 cases of cookies. Qualifying purchases includes cookies bought through the Gift of Caring program, scheduled to deliver cookies to troops Feb. 11-13. Five winners were randomly selected Jan. 30 and another five winners will be chosen March 20 (from entries received by 11:59 p.m. March. 19). Each code may be entered once at gswcf.org/en/cookies/5-for-5.html and is only valid for one drawing.

BUSCH GARDENS OFFERS TWICE THE SAVINGS

Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay kicked off the new year with two ways families can save: the BOGO 2017 Fun Card Deal and the free 2017 Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and SeaWorld Orlando Preschool Card. For a limited time, guests can receive an Adventure Island® Fun Card free with the purchase of a Busch Gardens Fun Card, which lets guests pay for a day and visit both parks through Dec. 31, 2017. Busch Gardens is also bringing back a limited-time offer for the Sea World® and Busch Gardens Preschool Card. Kids 5 and younger can enjoy Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Sea World Orlando for free from Jan. 4 through Dec. 31. Families must register their little ones in advance online at buschgardenstampa.com or seaworldorlando.com.

STUDENTS WIN PRIZES IN ANNUAL MUSIC CONTEST

Two Pinellas students won awards in The Power of Song Inc.’s annual music contest and performed their work at the Sounds of the Civil Rights Movement: The Power of Song, Jan. 8-9 at The Palladium Theater in St. Petersburg. Tendani Musengwa, an eighth-grader at James B. Sanderlin, won second place and a $250 prize for her performance of “We Shall Overcome.” Adan Martinez, a senior at Gibbs High, won third place and $100. Adan performed Bob Marley’s “Redemption Song.” Bay Point Elementary fourth and fifth grade chorus also got the opportunity to perform with professional artists. The Power of Song Music Contest is part of the kick-off event launching this year’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service volunteer programs in St. Pete.

CHILDREN’S BOARD WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS

The Children’s Board welcomes two new members to its Board of Directors, Commissioner Sandra Murman and Sally Harris. Murman was appointed to serve on the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County’s Governing Board, replacing outgoing County Commissioner Kevin Beckner. She was elected as a County Commissioner in 2010 to represent District 1 and re-elected in 2012 and 2016. Harris was appointed to serve on the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County’s Governing Board to fill the seat held by the Honorable Doretha Edgecomb who was retiring. Harris was elected to the School Board for District 2 in 2014, currently serves as vice chair and is one of seven members responsible for making policy decisions and overseeing a total budget of $2.9 billion for the 8th largest school district in the nation.

FEB 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 45

* What’s Happening | Top Picks

Your Best Bets For February and early March events DINOS ALIVE! Opens This Month

Grab the whole family and step back in time to the Jurassic and Cretaceous Eras at this new experience at Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo. Get ready to be surrounded by life size dinosaurs that move, roar and interact at this attraction open through August. Price is included with Annual Zoo Membership, “Pay for a Day” ticket and single day admission. Some blackout dates apply. lowryparkzoo.com 6 & Older

TAMPA STORIES Feb. 1-28, various times

Experience real stories from some of Tampa’s most notable African American figures at a new temporary exhibit featuring stories from the oral history collection through the Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative at Glazer Children’s Museum.

From noon to 2 p.m. on select dates to be announced, kids will get to record their own Tampa story and be part of the Library’s digital oral history collection. glazermuseum.org Everyone

HOORAY FOR HEARTS Feb. 6-10, 10:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Explore how hearts work and what to do to keep them healthy at Great Explorations in St. Petersburg. Use LEGOS to learn about the amount of sugar in our food and drinks, explore animal yoga to get the blood pumping, “fish” for fruit and veggies and more. Morning activities are geared toward little ones, and afternoon fun is better for school-aged kids. Activities are included with admission or membership. greatex.org 2-10

HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS Feb. 22, 7 p.m.

See some of the most electrifying athletes as they bring their world-famous show to Amalie Arena in downtown Tampa. New this season, the Globetrotters will debut basketball’s first 4-point line located 30 feet from the basket.

Catch a star-studded roster who will sign autographs and take photos with fans after the game. Tickets start at $20. amaliearena.com Everyone

HENRY B. PLANT MUSEUM PICNIC IN THE PARK March 5, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Bring your blanket, pack a picnic basket and invite family and friends to experience the pleasures of a simpler time. We’ll have Victorian field and table games, live entertainment, and community partners offering crafts and activities. Food and drink are available for purchase or bring your own and picnic on the grounds in Plant Park.

Picnic is free to attend. $1 admission to the Henry B. Plant Museum. Everyone 46 TampaBayParenting.com | FEB 2017

FLORIDA STATE FAIR Feb. 9-20, various times

Pack up the family for rides, live entertainment and more at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa. Take advantage of specials on admission four-packs and ride ticket armbands. This year’s event also includes the debut of a new and improved Super Slide, a spectacular Big Top Circus, Sea Lion Splash, Florida State Tractor Pull, Country Gold Concerts, K-9s in Flight and more. floridastatefair.com Everyone

February Calendar | What’s Happening

the Bolts take on the Anaheim Ducks at Amalie Arena. Night consists of a pre-game gathering on the party deck and ends with a group photo opportunity on the ice after the game. Price includes ticket for game and special Commemorative patch. Portion of ticket sales supports the Girl Scouts of West Central Florida. gswcf.org

EVENTS & FESTIVALS DINOS ALIVE! Opens This Month

Grab the whole family and step back in time to the Jurassic and Cretaceous Eras at this new experience at Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo. Get ready to be surrounded by life size dinosaurs that move, roar and interact at this attraction open through August.

Price is included with Annual Zoo Membership, “Pay for a Day” ticket and single day admission.

Some blackout dates apply. lowryparkzoo.com 6 & Older

IDEA ZONE All Month

Use your ingenuity and moxie to solve daily building puzzles as part of this month’s Idea Zone theme, Engineering Challenges, at MOSI in Tampa. Participants of all ages can tackle challenges like bridge building, racing and more. Idea Zone activities are included with admission. mosi.org Everyone

TAMPA STORIES Feb. 1-28, various times

Experience real stories from some of Tampa’s most notable African American figures at a new temporary exhibit featuring stories from the oral history collection through the Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative at Glazer Children’s Museum.

From noon to 2 p.m. on select dates to be announced, kids will get to record their own Tampa story and be part of the Library’s digital oral history collection. glazermuseum.org Everyone

NATURE PLAY Feb. 1, 10-11:15 a.m.

Take the little ones to Mobbly Bayou Wilderness Preserve in Oldsmar for a chance to learn and play the nature way. Morning includes songs, stories, nature walks and more. Event is designed for toddlers age 3-5. Cost is $2.50 per class with recreation card and $3.75 without card. myoldsmar.com

ST. PETE STEAMFEST Feb. 4, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Attend a free community celebration of science, technology, engineering, arts and math at Shorecrest Preparatory School in St. Pete. Event will feature hands on-learning including robotics and electronics building, arts and crafts, LEGOs and marble tracks. Food trucks as well as representatives from Busch Gardens, Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Great Explorations, the Tampa Bay Rowdies, Wonder Studio and more will be on hand at this event geared to ages 2-12. more.shorecrest.org/STEAM

RAYS FAN FEST Feb. 4, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Show support for your home team as the Tampa Bay Rays invite fans and their families to Tropicana Field for a fun day of running the bases, touring the locker rooms and meeting up with some of your favorite players and furry blue mascot Raymond. Free admission and parking. raysbaseball.com Everyone

MINI MAKERS WITH GSWCF Feb. 4, 1-3 p.m.

Sign up the girls for two major design projects as part of this creative activity with the Girl Scouts of West Central Florida at Glazer Children’s Museum in downtown Tampa. Participants will make a small pot on a pottery wheel and sew a piece of flair that lights up. Cost is $22 per person. gswcf.org. 7-8

GIRL SCOUT FAMILY GAME DAY WITH THE TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING Feb. 4, 5:30-8 p.m.

Girl Scouts and their families can come out to watch

FAMILY COOKING CLASS Feb. 4, 6-9 p.m.

Work together as a family to prepare a tasty Italian meal to be enjoyed at the end of this class led by Junior Chefs of America in Tampa. During the class, families will be introduced to budgeting tools and strategies for saving at the grocery store. Cost is $135 for the family. For more information, call 813-4081078. juniorchefsofamerica.org

SKYWATCH Feb. 4, 7-9:30 p.m.

Spend an evening under the stars with MOSI space experts in the staff parking lot for space exploration through the museum’s telescopes. Skywatch events are free to the public. mosi.org Everyone

MONSTER JAM Feb. 4, 7 p.m.

Check out 11 trucks and drivers vying for the Tampa championship at Raymond James Stadium. Watch 12 feet tall and 12 feet wide custom-designed machines as they fly up to 35 feet in the air and over a distance spanning more than 14 cars side by side. A Party in the Pits takes place 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. giving fans a chance to get up close with Monster Jam trucks and drivers for $10 with a show ticket and for free at participating Southern Ford Dealers. For show tickets, go to raymondjamesstadium.com. Everyone

FARM FEST AND QUILT SHOW Feb. 4-5, various times

Visit Pioneer Florida Museum and Village in Dade City for this yearly celebration of Florida history. See beautiful designs of homemade quilts on display and get a taste of old-fashioned farm living.

Event hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $10 per day or $15 both days. pioneerfloridamuseum.org

MINECRAFT MANIA Feb. 4, 11, 18 and 25, 1-3 p.m.

Sharpen up those Minecraft engineering skills in exciting educational challenges at MOSI. Event has limited availability so advance registration is highly recommended. Program fee is $15 members and $20 general admission. mosi.org 7-12

MEMBER MORNING Feb. 5, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Take the family to Glazer Children’s Museum the first Sunday every month for exclusive museum access. Invite family, interact with other members and meet special guests. Enjoy programs and activities created just for members and use #GCMKIDS to share your experience. glazermuseum.org Everyone

HOORAY FOR HEARTS Feb. 6-10, 10:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Explore how hearts work and what to do to keep them healthy at Great Explorations in St. Petersburg. Use LEGOS to learn about the amount of sugar in our food and drinks, explore animal yoga to get the blood pumping, “fish” for fruit and veggies and more. Morning activities are geared toward little ones, and afternoon fun is better for school-aged kids. Activities are included with admission or membership. greatex.org 2-10

CHILDREN’S BOARD FREE TUESDAY Feb. 7, noon – 7 p.m.

Enjoy free admission at Glazer Children’s Museum as part of this promotion in partnership with The Children’s Board of Hillsborough County the first Tuesday monthly. Adults must be accompanied by a child and vice versa. glazermuseum.org Everyone

BAY AREA RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL Open Weekends Feb. 18 – April 2, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

*

Visit a charming 16th century village and experience the food, music and activities at this festival held outside Tampa’s MOSI. Browse merchants and watch entertainment across a dozen stages. This month’s weekend themes are Highland Fling (Feb. 18-19) and Chocolate Fantasy (Feb. 25-26). Admission at the gate is $20.95 adults and $12.95 children ages 5-12. Free parking. bayarearenfest.com Everyone

BE MINE 2017: ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE Feb. 9, 6:30 p.m.

Come together to celebrate the joy of adoptive families found at this annual Heart Gallery of Tampa Bay fundraiser at Palma Ceia Country Club in South Tampa. Hear moving stories of adoption and the power of love with a Beatles-infused night featuring entertainment, a love-inspired silent auction and high-end live auction, photo scenes, delicious food and open bars. Tickets are $125. heartgallerytampa.org Moms, Dads

FLORIDA STATE FAIR Feb. 9-20, various times

Pack up the family for rides, live entertainment and more at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa.

Take advantage of specials on admission four-packs and ride ticket armbands. This year’s event also includes the debut of a new and improved Super Slide, a spectacular Big Top Circus, Sea Lion Splash, Florida State Tractor Pull, Country Gold Concerts, K-9s in Flight and more. floridastatefair.com Everyone

SCHOOL’S OUT CAMP: GAME ON Feb. 10, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Kids can let loose on this day off for a fun day of gaming at MOSI. Flex the brain muscles and tickle the funny bone by playing games that use the imagination and ability to think ahead. Fee is $26 members and $35 nonmembers. mosi.org 5-10

VIVA CUBA! FESTIVAL CUBANO Feb. 10, 7-10 p.m.

Celebrate all things Cuban at this event straight out of Havana hosted by Dunedin Fine Art Center. Evening includes Cuban food, drinks, music, and art, as well as vintage cars and salsa dancing. dfac.org

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT Feb. 10, 6-10 p.m.

Drop off the kids at Great Explorations in St. Pete for a night of museum fun while enjoying a date night or time to run errands. Children can play, explore the Touch Tunnel, watch science shows and see a G-rated movie, all in the care of trusted museum team members. Pizza, snacks and juice are included.

Advance registration is required. Cost is $25 members; $35 non-members. Preregistration is required. greatex.org 4-10

CHINESE NEW YEAR Feb. 11, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Return to a unique and ancient culture by way of Largo Central Park as part of this New Year celebration that takes place across Asia. Sample traditional foods, watch colorful performances and try your hand at Chinese crafts and activities. Admission is free; wristbands also are available to purchase for children’s activities. largo.com

LOVE GIVE LIVE 5K Feb. 11, 6:30-11 a.m.

Help LifeLink raise funds for organ and tissue donation at this annual 5K at Water Works Park in Tampa.

Get your running shoes on to race on the Riverwalk along the Hillsborough River followed by a family fun day. Register at lifelinkfoundation.org. Everyone

HEARTS AND CRAFTS Feb. 11, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Visitors can make valentines for the special people in their life as well as enjoy fun crafts and activities at Great Explorations Museum in St. Pete. Work on heart puzzles, an “I love you to pieces” mosaic, “I’m in your heart” picture frames, heart necklaces, origami hearts and “Thumb-body loves you” bookmarks. All activities are included with admission or membership. greatex.org 3-10 FEB 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 47

* What’s Happening | February Calendar EVENTS & FESTIVALS CONTINUED TRAIN RIDES AT CREWS LAKE PARK Feb. 11, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Bring the entire family for a train ride which runs the second Saturday of every month at Crews Lake Wilderness Park in Spring Hill. Public train rides operate January through November by The Central Pasco & Gulf Railroad. Donations are welcomed as they help keep the trains running. cpgrr.org

NORTH TAMPA MARKET AT THE CARROLLWOOD CULTURAL CENTER Feb. 11, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

HOME SCHOOL DAYS: TAMPA STORIES Feb. 15, 2-5 p.m.

Homeschool families can bring their students to develop and advance their social skills as they interact with others in the home school community as part of this event hosted by Glazer Children’s Museum.

Each month focuses on new themes: Tampa Stories for February. Admission is $6. glazermuseum.org

A NIGHT AT THE BREWSEUM Feb. 17, 7-10 p.m.

Shop vendors for handcrafted goods, fresh foods and organic products at this monthly event at Carrollwood Cultural Center. Browse the Kids Market while enjoying live music. Free admission. tampabaymarkets.com

Spend an evening enjoying favorite craft beers while playing the Ex Games at this fun adults-only event at Great Explorations in St. Pete. Taste local brews, challenge friends to games and take part in museum relays to play like a kid again in the museum’s interactive exhibits while listening to live music.

Advance tickets are $45 with VIP tickets available for $100. greatex.org Girls Night Out, Date Night

LITTLE SWEETHEART’S DANCE Feb. 11, 6-8 p.m.

ENGINEER YOUR FUTURE Feb. 18, All Day

DADDY DAUGHTER DATE NIGHT Feb. 11, 6-9 p.m.

ERTH’S DINOSAUR ZOO LIVE Feb. 19, 3 p.m.

Enjoy an evening of family-friendly dancing, light refreshments and more at Glazer Children’s Museum in downtown Tampa. Make unforgettable memories at this special Valentine’s Day event celebrating love. For tickets, go to glazermuseum.org. Everyone Feb. 11, 6-9 p.m.

Mark your calendars for a special event to create a beautiful memory for dads and their daughters ages 4-12 at Safety Harbor Community Center. Night includes dancing, games, and fun contests with light appetizers/desserts to be served. Pre-registration is required. Space is limited. Cost is $30 per couple. cityofsafetyharbor.com

TOTAL ECLIPSE OF THE HEART Feb. 11-12, and 14, various times

Spend a romantic, candlelit evening with dinner and a changing night sky of destinations such as France, Spain and Italy inside The Saunders Planetarium at MOSI for a unique Valentine’s Day experience.

Advance registrations are required. Fees are $100 per couple for members and $130 for nonmembers.

For times and tickets, visit mosi.org Everyone

SEVEN SEAS FOOD FESTIVAL Feb. 11 – May 13, various times

Give the taste buds a delightful variety of international, local and seasonal craft brews and unique flavors at this new food festival launching at Sea World Orlando. For ticket and event details as they become available, go to seaworldorlando.com. Moms, Dads

KREWE OF SANT’ YAGO KNIGHT PARADE Feb. 13, 7 p.m.

Find a spot along the sidewalks to collect beads at this popular night parade rolling down Seventh Avenue in historic Ybor City. Catch this year’s grand marshals, The Tampa Bay Bucs, watch illuminated floats and listen to marching bands. Event benefits the Krewe of the Knights of Sant’ Yago Education Foundation. knightparade.com Everyone

DEVELOPMENTAL CHECK UPS Feb. 14, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Bring your child to take part in a special event offered through Glazer Children’s Museum in partnership with Champions for Children and Baby Bungalow. Professionals will review and discuss the child’s development. Caregiver must accompany child. Online preregistration is required and checkups are included with general admission or membership. glazermuseum.org. 1-3

FAMILY NIGHT OUT Feb. 14, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Come out with the whole family for crafts, games and stories the third Tuesday of each month at the Land O Lakes Library. Activities are designed for kids ages 5-12. For more information, call 813-929-1214.

48 TampaBayParenting.com | FEB 2017

Find inspiration and explore the fulfilling journey of an engineer making a difference in the world at this MOSI event. Meet professional engineers and get hands-on with engineering activities at the museum. Fee is $16 members and $21 non-members. mosi.org Everyone

See an eye-popping collection of lifelike dinosaurs and other creatures presented in a fun, unique, entertaining and educational theatrical performance at The Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg. Kids will be thrilled while their imaginations are stimulated by the realistic puppetry. Tickets are $20-$40. themahaffey.com 5 & Older

PASCO COUNTY FAIR Feb. 20-26, various times

Head to the Pasco County Fairgrounds in Dade City for a day of Midway rides, games and tasty fair food.

Check out this year’s exhibits, shows and pageant events. Admission is $8 adults, $5 for kids ages 6-12 and free for children ages 5 and younger. Unlimited ride wristbands are available for purchase. pascocountyfair.com

DISCOVERING DR. SEUSS SCHOOL’S OUT CAMP Feb. 20, 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Sign up the kids for this special camp while Pinellas students are out for Presidents’ Day at Great Explorations in St. Pete. Kids will use art, science and physical movement to demonstrate their brain and body will see improvement. Fee is $35 members and $40 non-members. greatex.org 5-8

KIDS STORYTIME WITH MUSIC AND CRAFT Feb. 20, 10-11 a.m.

Pack up the kids while they are off school for Presidents Day and head over to the Patchworks Community Room at Nature’s Food Patch in Clearwater for some fun the third Monday every month. Erika Davis of Usborne Book Buddy brings stories, songs and a craft activity to this free event open to kids of all ages and their caregivers. naturesfoodpatch.com

SCHOOL’S OUT CAMP: SILLY SCIENCE Feb. 20, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Venture over to the silly side of science at this unique and fun camp over Presidents’ Day. Preregistration and payment required two weeks in advance.

Fee is $26 members and $35 non-members. Extended hours also are available. mosi.org 5-10

MASTERS OF ILLUSION Feb. 20, 7:30 p.m.

Experience the fast-moving, family-friendly spectacular onstage at The Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg. Show features grand illusions, levitation, sleight of hand, comedy and mind-boggling escapes.

Tickets start at $27.50. themahaffey.com 8 & Older

UNLOCKING YOUR FAMILY HISTORY – AN INTRODUCTION TO GENEALOGY Feb. 22, 10 a.m. - noon

Enroll in a three-week course to help you discover the people who lived before you that make up part your family story at this USF/OLLI event hosted by Tampa Bay History Center in Tampa. Get the keys to basic genealogic research and family history preservation. Registration is via USF/OLLI. tampabayhistorycenter.org Moms, Dads

HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS Feb. 22, 7 p.m.

See some of the most electrifying athletes as they bring their world-famous show to Amalie Arena in downtown Tampa. New this season, the Globetrotters will debut basketball’s first 4-point line located 30 feet from the basket. Catch a star-studded roster who will sign autographs and take photos with fans after the game. Tickets start at $20. amaliearena.com Everyone

STEM FAMILY NIGHT AT GLAZER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Feb. 23, 5-8 p.m.

Join faculty, staff and students from HCC and FLATE to learn about STEM career pathways at this special event hosted by Glazer Children’s Museum in Tampa. Students can find what they can do to prepare now for the next step in their education and get tours of manufacturing and design labs. Families will engage in engineering and design career activities. Advance registration is required online at all4schools.org/STEM or by phone at 813-272-4443. glazermuseum.org 11 - 18

70TH ANNUAL FIESTA DAY IN YBOR CITY Feb. 25, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

This is a FREE family-friendly street festival on Ybor City’s Setima (7th Avenue) which celebrates the Cuban, Italian, Spanish, Jewish and German immigrants who settled in Ybor City in the late 1800s.

There will be live music, food, arts and crafts and fun for all ages. Everyone

READY, SET, GO! Feb. 25, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Experience the thrill of the race at this special event hosted by Great Explorations in St. Pete. Kids can climb into an official Firestone Grand Prix show car in front of the museum and enter for a chance to win Fan Friday race tickets and Grand Prix souvenirs.

Families can zip and zoom inside the museum for transportation fun including vehicle collages, a chance to build ramps and race, and more. At 11:30 a.m., catch a Blast Off! Science Demo and watch film canister rockets, balloon rockets and more take flight. Activities included with admission and membership. greatex.org 5 & Older

THE PEKING ACROBATS Feb. 26, 1 p.m.

Families will be mesmerized as a troupe of China’s most gifted acrobats take the stage to dazzle accompanied by live music at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. Watch tumblers, contortionists, jugglers, cyclists and gymnasts perform daring feats. Tickets are $18-$35. rutheckerdhall.com Everyone

HOLLYWOOD AWARDS NIGHT Feb. 26, 7 p.m.

Join Tampa Theatre as it celebrates Hollywood’s biggest night with a VIP watch party for the live telecast of the Academy Awards on the big screen at 8:30 p.m. Night includes a limo ride around the block, stroll on the red carpet, games, prizes and cash bar all night long. Those who stay until the Best Picture is named will enjoy doughnuts and coffee in the lobby. Movie-themed and Hollywood glam-inspired attire are encouraged. Tickets are $20 general admission and $75 for a “Backstage Pass,” to include complimentary appetizers, beer, wine and signature cocktail. tampatheatre.org Everyone

VALENTINE’S DAY ACTIVITES AND EVENTS

FRIDA KAHLO AT THE DALI Through Apr. 17, various times

See this latest exhibit at The Dali in St. Petersburg spotlighting the career and life of the acclaimed 20th century artist. More than 60 Kahlo works are on display including paintings, drawings and personal photographs from the celebrated female artist and influential icon. thedali.org 8 & Older

LEAP INTO ART AT LEEPA-RATTNER! Feb. 22, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Take part in this partnership program between Palm Harbor Library and the Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art at St. Petersburg College. Kids listen to stories about art read aloud followed by a related art activity. February’s theme is Art Makes Me Feel. Event is included with admission. leeparattner.org 4-8

THE ART SPOT AT TAMPA MUSEUM OF ART Feb. 4, 11, 18 and 25, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

SPECIAL NEEDS

Sponsored by Early Autism Project EAPTampa.com SENSORY-FRIENDLY FILMS AT COBB THEATERS Feb. 4, 10 a.m.

Catch film screenings that provide viewers with varying abilities a chance to enjoy a family-friendly film in a safe, accepting environment at area Cobb Theaters. This month’s film is A Dog’s Purpose with Dennis Quaid and Josh Gad, Film is rated PG and runs 120 minutes. Participating theaters include Cobb Tyrone Luxury Theatres in St. Pete, Countryside 12 in Clearwater and Grove 16 in Wesley Chapel. cobbtheaters.com Everyone

Stop by the Tampa Museum of Art Saturday Morning at the museum’s Golding Scher Classroom for a free drop-in program offering kids and families a chance to share a creative moment. Participants of all ages get to work on projects inspired by art on display in the galleries with a different facilitator-guided project each week. No registration is required. tampamuseum.org Everyone

MFA MAKE & TAKE Feb. 4 and 18, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Enjoy a variety of events with the whole family, at the Museum of Fine Arts in St. Pete every first and third Saturday monthly. From treasure hunts to arts and crafts, guests will have plenty of opportunity to get creative and can go on a docent-led tour at 11 a.m.

Free with museum admission. mfastpete.org Everyone

FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP Feb. 7, 6:30-7:30 a.m.

DILLY DALLY WITH DALI Feb. 4, 11, 18 and 25, 11:45 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

SENSORY FRIENDLY SCREENINGS AT AMC THEATERS Feb. 11 and 25

THE OPEN ROAD: PHOTOGRAPHY AND THE AMERICAN ROAD TRIP Feb. 9 – June 4, various times

Interact with other parents of special needs kids at this monthly support group hosted by Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital Child Development and Rehabilitation Center in St. Pete. RSVP at 727-7672885. johnshopkinsallchildrens.org Moms, Dads

Bring the family for unique sensory-friendly movie showings offered the second and fourth Saturday monthly as part of this partnership between AMC Theaters and the Autism Society. Guests will experience lowered lights and sound, and enjoy the freedom of getting up to dance, walk, shout or sing during screenings. This month’s films are The Lego Batman Movie (Feb. 11) and Rock Dog (Feb. 25).

Check local theater listings for showtimes. amctheatres.com Everyone

GREAT CONNECTIONS Feb. 12, 10 a.m. - noon

Stroll the exhibit rooms at Great Explorations Children’s Museum in St. Petersburg with other special needs families while the venue is closed to the public. Admission is $5 general and free for members. greatex.org 6 & Older

SENSORY STORY TIME Feb. 18, 10:30-11 a.m.

Children with autism spectrum disorders can enjoy a special storytelling session at New Tampa Regional Library. Event is designed to engage kids through movement, stories and sensory activity play. Registration is required with space limited to 10 children and their caregiver. Register at hcplc.org or by calling 813-273-3652. 3-6

Bring the kids to The Dali in St. Petersburg to uncover their inner artist as they learn about the creative world through games, puzzles, arts and crafts.

Families are encouraged to stay and join in the fun.

Free. thedali.org 5-12

Celebrate the American road trip in this latest exhibit on display at The Museum of Fine Arts in St. Pete.

Photographers represent the freedom, discovery and escape of the open road in a series of photographs capturing the powerful imagery on the journey. mfastpete.org Everyone

DOWNTOWN DUNEDIN CRAFT FESTIVAL Feb. 11-12, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Browse work from 150 artists from across the country as they showcase life-size sculptures, paintings, one-of-a-kind jewelry, photography, ceramics and more at this yearly event in downtown Dunedin along Main Street. Shop for unique gift items in time for Valentine’s Day. Free. artfestival.com Everyone

CHILDREN’S CRAFT CORNER Feb. 11, 2-3 p.m.

Stop by New River Branch Library in Zephyrhills with the kids grades K-3 for a fun art activity.

Participants can make a craft to take home as part of this afternoon event sponsored by the Friends of the Library. For more information, call 813-788-6375.

ST. PETERSBURG FINE ART FESTIVAL Feb. 18-19, various times

Check out an outdoor gallery of fine art in North Straub Park adjacent to the Museum of Fine Arts.

See work across various media including painting, glass, mixed-media, ceramics, sculpture, photography, metalwork and more. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Free admission. paragonartevents.com Everyone

SCHOOL’S OUT/ART’S IN: 1-DAY ART CAMP FOR KIDS Feb. 20, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Bring the kids to Morean Arts Center in St. Petersburg for a fun, creative camp. Cost is $30 members and $35 non-members and includes all materials with extended care available for an additional fee.

Register by phone at 727-822-7872. moreanartscenter.org 5-10

ART

FILM A BEAUTIFUL PLANET All Month

See Earth from space and join astronauts aboard the International Space in this IMAX film co-produced with Disney in cooperation with NASA and showing at Tampa’s MOSI. One IMAX® film is included with MOSI general admission. mosi.org Everyone

NATIONAL PARKS ADVENTURE All Month

Soar over red rock canyons and scale steep mountain peaks among America’s most legendary outdoor places in the Florida Hospital IMAX® DOME Theatre at MOSI. The film celebrates 100 years of National Park Service. mosi.org Everyone

WILD AFRICA All Month

Explore the highest snow-covered mountains in Kenya and great rivers to the steamy rainforests and wide-open savannahs in this captivating IMAX film at MOSI. mosi.org Everyone

ROGUE ONE: A STAR WARS STORY Select Dates in February

Watch the Rebellion in action as they plot to steal plans to the Death Star for this limited engagement at MOSI’s Florida Hospital IMAX Dome. For tickets and showtimes, visit mosi.org. 9 & Older

BESTSELLERS ON THE BIG SCREEN AT TAMPA THEATRE Feb. 5, 12 and 19, 3 p.m.

Celebrate books brought beautifully to the big screen in this special film series at Tampa Theatre in downtown Tampa. This month’s book-to-film selections are The Color Purple (Feb. 5), Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (Feb. 12) and The Lincoln Lawyer (Feb. 19).

Tickets are $8 members and $10 general admission and are available at the box office and online at tampatheatre.org. Moms, Dads

THE LEGO BATMAN MOVIE Opens Feb. 10

Welcome back Bruce Wayne and his better-known alter ego Lego Batman as he faces Gotham City’s fiercest criminals and the trials and tribulations of raising a boy he adopted. Film features Ralph Fiennes, Jenny Slate and Rosario Dawson. Running time is 90 minutes. Check movie times. 8 & Older

ROCK DOG Opens Feb. 24

Follow a bright-eyed Tibetan Mastiff who leaves home to pursue his dream of becoming a musician but finds a set of totally unexpected events.

Animated film features Luke Wilson, Eddie Izzard, J.K. Simmons and Lewis Black. Running time is 88 minutes. 8 & Older FEB 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 49

* What’s Happening | February Calendar PJ LIBRARY MOVIE NIGHT: THE SECRET LIFE OF PETS Feb. 26, 3-5 p.m.

Kids can enjoy a fun afternoon of crafts and a movie hosted by the PJ Library and the Humane Society of Tampa Bay at the Bryan Glazer Family JCC in South Tampa. Bring a pet-friendly item to donate and receive a special PJ gift. Event includes popcorn and snacks, and is free to PJ Library Friends ages 12 and younger. bryanglazerfamilycc.com

students from Patel Conservatory at Straz Center’s TECO Theater. Tickets start at $15. strazcenter.org 5 & Older

shaped up to be one of the group’s biggest hits yet, streaming 2.7 million times and counting. Tickets are $39.50-$69.50. sundomearena.com 10 & Older

THE THREE LITTLE CIRCUS PIGS Feb. 21-22, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

IN THE MOOD Feb. 4, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Experience the comedic retelling of the beloved story and meet The Cracking Brothers, Boarnum and Pigfeats Circus when it takes the stage at Carrollwood Cultural Center in this production presented

by A.C.T. for Youth. Tickets are $7 members and $8 non-members, with a Family 4-Pack available for $28. Children ages 4 and younger are free. carrollwoodcenter.org

BODYTRAFFIC Feb. 22, 8 p.m.

Be mesmerized by this spirited celebration of dance onstage at Straz Center. Named one of Dance Magazine’s “25 to Watch,” this production reflects the fastpaced freeway world of its Los Angeles home – gritty, contemporary, innovative and sexy. For tickets, go to strazcenter.org. Teen & Older

PUPPET SHOW: THE FLYING TORTOISE Feb. 23, 4-5 p.m.

THEATER & DANCE DUNEDIN SHOWCASE KIDS THEATER: “WHAT HAPPENED AFTER ONCE UPON A TIME” Feb. 3-4, various times

Enjoy a fun, fractured fairy tale and find out if the characters really lived happily ever after at Dunedin Community Center as part of a production presented

by Dunedin Parks and Recreation and Dunedin Showcase Kids theater. Shows are 7 p.m. Friday and 3 p.m. Saturday. Tickets are $5. dunedinshowcasetheater.net

Meet a very tricky tortoise determined to fly like a bird as part of this humorous tale performed by Creative Arts Theatre Company at Bloomingdale Regional Public Library in Valrico. Show is geared for ages 4 and older. For more information, call 813-273-3652.

DISNEY’S ALICE IN WONDERLAND JR. Feb. 24-25, 6:30 p.m.

Travel down the rabbit hole as this beloved Lewis Carroll tale is retold by young performers of The Academy at St. Petersburg City Theatre. The production is part of The Academy’s Annual Children’s Theatre Workshop Season. spcitytheatre.org

AS YOU LIKE IT Through Feb. 5, various times

Celebrate the Bard as Jobsite Theater performs one of Shakespeare’s most iconic plays before it leaves Tampa’s Straz Center. From gender roles and nature to politics, all becomes a muddle in this clever and astute comedy that reflects on how bewildering and pleasurable life can be. Shows run 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 4 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $28. jobsitetheater.org 10 & Older

Travel back in time to the era of American Big Bands in this brassy, all-singing, all-dancing 1940s musical revue kicking off its 22nd season on tour with two performances at Tampa Theatre. Hop aboard the “Chattanooga Choo Choo” to “Tuxedo Junction” and get ready for a Moonlight Serenade. Production is complete with authentic costume, music arrangements and choreography. Tickets are $39.50-$59.50. tampatheatre.org Everyone

BON JOVI Feb. 14, 7:30 p.m.

Sing along to anthems and personal favorites as the Grammy Award®-winning band Bon Jovi brings its This House Is Not for Sale Tour to Amalie Arena in downtown Tampa. As an added bonus, fans will receive a physical copy of This House Is Not for Sale with every ticket purchased. Tickets start at $19.75. amaliearena.com 10 & Older

CLEARWATER SEAFOOD AND BLUES FESTIVAL Feb. 18-19, various times

Listen to an eclectic lineup of national blues artists and emerging bands at this annual music festival at Coachman Park. Headlining Saturday’s music will be JJ Grey & Mofro; Sunday’s headliner is American blues guitarist singer-songwriter Walter Trout. General admission is free; reserved seating starts at $25. clearwaterseablues.com 12 & Older

STOMP Feb. 25, 8 p.m.

Witness the explosive, inventive, provocative, witty and unique percussion sensation to provide a concert experience for audiences of all ages at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. See the 8-member troupe use everything but conventional instruments including wooden poles, garbage cans, hubcaps, matchboxes, Zippo lighters and more to fill the stage with rhythm. rutheckerdhall.com Everyone

JOE TURNER’S COME AND GONE Through Feb. 19, various times

See the epic conclusion of American Stage’s journey through August Wilson’s Century Cycle with this latest production at the St. Pete theater. Be transported to a Pittsburgh boarding house in 1991 and meet America’s newly freed men and women as they venture into a new world. americanstage.org Teen & Older

WICKED Feb. 1-26, various times

Experience the Broadway sensation that takes a look at what happened in the Land of Oz but from a different point of view when it returns to the Straz Center in Tampa. Sing along to hits “Defying Gravity,” “Popular” and “For Good.” Tickets start at $52.50. strazcenter.org 8 & Older

THE ALIENS BY ANNIE BAKER Feb. 9- 26, various times

Meet two lost and disillusioned young men who sit behind a Vermont coffee shop and discuss music and Bukowski in this play about friendship, art, love and death at Stageworks in Tampa. When a lonely high school student arrives on the scene, they decide to teach him everything they know. Tickets are $30. stageworkstheatre.org Moms, Dads

PATEL CONSERVATORY PRESENTS THE MUSICAL ADVENTURES OF FLAT STANLEY, JR. Feb. 16-19, various times

Meet Stanley, an ordinary 10-year-old until a fallen bulletin board falls on top of him and launches his adventures as Flat Stanley from the popular children’s book series in this musical production by the 50 TampaBayParenting.com | FEB 2017

MUSIC & COMEDY REAL MUSIC SERIES AT BUSCH GARDENS TAMPA Through Mar. 4, 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Check out Busch Gardens Tampa’s longest running concert series with music from the 1950s to today. This month’s concerts are Fernando Varela, Herman’s Hermits featuring Peter Noone, Beginnings: The Ultimate Chicago Tribute Band, Micky Dolenz and Lee Greenwood. Concerts are free with park admission. buschgardenstampa.com Everyone

THE MUSIC OF DAVID BOWIE Feb. 3, 8 p.m.

Enjoy a special tribute to a legend gone too soon as conductor Brent Havens leads the The Florida Orchestra and a full rock band with vocalist as they take the audience on a symphonic odyssey at Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg. Experience David Bowie’s music and storytelling with hits like “Space Oddity,” “Changes,” “Under Pressure,” “Heroes” and more. Tickets are $35-$65. floridaorchestra.org Everyone

AVETT BROTHERS Feb. 3, 8 p.m.

Hear tracks from the Avett Brothers’ latest album True Sadness and old favorites at the USF Sun Dome in Tampa. Their hit single “Ain’t No Man” held the number one spot on AAA radio and has

EDUCATION & CLASSES CORBETT PREP OPEN HOUSE Jan. 31, 8:30 a.m.

Spend the morning at Corbett Prep and get information about the curriculum available at the Carrollwood school. Learn about the International Baccalaureate Programme for grades PreK3-8 and enjoy a light breakfast. corbettprep.com

CORPUS CHRISTI OPEN HOUSE FOR 2017-18 Feb. 2, 8:30 a.m.

Get questions answered about Corpus Christi Catholic School and take a tour of the North Tampa campus. Meet faculty and staff, and take away valuable information about academic, arts and sports programs on the campus. cccstt.org

SHORECREST PREP OPEN HOUSE Feb. 9, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

See the faculty and students of Shorecrest Preparatory School in action as part of this informative admissions event held onsite. Learn about academic, athletic and arts programs as well as other areas of learning offered through the St. Pete School. For

more information and to register, go to more. shorecrest.org/openhouse.

ADMIRAL FARRAGUT ACADEMY POKER RUN Feb. 11, 4 p.m.

Support Admiral Farragut Academy at this fun annual event for adults to take place in downtown St. Petersburg. Participants will visit five downtown bars to collect a 5-card poker hand with prizes awarded at the last stop for best hand, 2nd place best hand and worst hand. Proceeds benefit the Admiral Athletics Club. farragut.org

Looking Ahead to March: MARCH GUEST EDITOR: HEATHER BARROW, FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HIGH RISK HOPE High Risk Hope provides support to families experiencing high-risk pregnancy.

Learn more: highriskhope.org

SAFE SITTER Feb. 20, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Sign up kids ages 11-14 for this class building life-saving babysitting skills to be held at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital Education and Conference Center in St. Pete. Class includes games and role-playing exercises, as well as an opportunity for young students to practice CPR and choking rescue on manikins. Cost is $55. To register, go to allkids.org/ecc.

SAFETY SUPERHERO ACADEMY: HOT, HOT, HOT! Feb. 21, 3-3:30 p.m.

Join Hillsborough County Fire Rescue at New Tampa Regional Library and learn how to be a Safety Superhero. Kids ages 3-5 learn how to identify hot and cold objects and when to call for backup from an adult.

Parents will learn safety tips on keeping their home safe for children and First-Aid for treating scalds and burns. For information, call 813-273-3652.

LUNCH AND LEARN: ARE RESPONSIBILITIES OVERWHELMING YOU? Feb. 23, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Sign up for this helpful workshop at The Helen Gordon Davis Centre for Women in Hyde Park and get tips for building stronger personal and professional boundaries. Learn how to clarify values, prioritize time and find more balance. Cost is $5 members and $10 non-members. Lunch is included. Advance registration is required. thecentre.org

TAMPA PREP GALA Feb. 25, 7 p.m.

Show your support for Tampa Preparatory School at this annual fundraiser at the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay. Enjoy cocktails and dinner, a live auction and dancing. Tickets are $150 each. tampaprep.org

You can support High Risk Hope now!

In celebration of High Risk Hope’s 6th birthday on February 16, 2017, they are collecting new or gently used children’s books to deliver to the 2,500+ families of premature infants who will be treated in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at local hospitals in 2017.

Each book received from the HRH birthday book drive will make a lifelong impact on a premature baby in our community!

ALSO COMING IN MARCH:

Gasparilla Music Festival Last Minute Spring Break Getaways Strawberry Festival and more!

FEB 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 51

Corbett Preparatory School of IDS PreK3-8th grade

Admissions Open House 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 7

Highly trained teachers provide academics with joy and challenge Brain-based teaching strategies reach and engage all learners Focus on team sports that provides options for every player Visual and performing arts that build confidence and creativity Social and emotional learning integrated into curriculum

52 TampaBayParenting.com | FEB 2017