March 2017 by Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine

MARCH 2017

tampabayparenting.com

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE pg. 28-31

SPRING TRENDS TO TRY with Runway Translator

THE GOLDEN TICKET

LOCAL KIDS ON BROADWAY!

Guest Editor:

heather barrow OF HIGH RISK HOPE

MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 1

Downtown Tampa 110 W Gasparilla Plaza 33602 Open Daily M-F 10am-5pm Sat 10am-6pm | Sun 1-6pm

GlazeRmuSeum.org

tHiS SpriNg bReak

NeW

MarCH 13-25 oN level 3

This Spring Break, experience robots, circuitry, math, and building toys that stretch the imagination! Learn more at GlazerMuseum.org

I N T R O D U C I N G

alSo Drop iN For

GMf kiDSFeSt

March 12, 1-6pm Free Admission

NeW! pi DaY

March 14, 10am-5pm Registration Required

G C M â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S

June 5-August 4

Weekly Camps for Ages 5-10 Calling all kids! Discover new ways to learn and play all summer long with: Imaginative Weekly Themes Exclusive SMALLab Experiences Museum Playtime and more! 2 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

Visit GlazerMuseum.org/camp

START PLAYING TODAY

The hospital can be a scary place for anyone, especially children. Big machines and doctors in masks can seem like monsters. At St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, we help kids and their parents get to know the monsters. Because once you understand them, the things that scare us aren’t so bad after all.

UnMonsters.org MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 3 BC1605392-0816

* * *

MARCH 2017 LIFE + HOME

08 Giving Our Kids the Gift of Empathy 10 Home Design: Before and After Transformations 12 Connect and Grow: Networking Tips from a Local Pro

FOOD + DRINK 16 For the Love of Strawberries: Recipes you have to try

23 Choosing a Preschool: Questions Teachers Wished You Asked 24 Local Kids Make It Big On Broadway 27 Girls and STEM: Boost Her Confidence 28 SPECIAL SECTION: Your Guide To Area Summer Camps

BEAUTY + STYLE

34 Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in Your Bag? with Heather Barrow 38 Spring Trends to try: Blogger Michelle Bremer of Runway Translator

EDUCATION

HEALTH + WELLNESS 41 Parenting Books to read right now! 42 Ask the Doctor: Dr. Jill Hechtman 44 Birds and Bees: Baycare's Teen Talk Program

41 39

WHAT'S HAPPENING

52 Around Town 54 Local Scoop: News from Around the Bay 59 Top Picks: Heather Barrow's favorite March events 60 March Events Calendar

47 FAMILY FUN

47 Best Bay Area beaches for families 48 Kids Fest at Gasparilla Music Festival 51 Tampa's Bob Buckhorn and the River O'Green

51 60 FROM THE COVER Photo taken in Tampa when Ryan found out he got the part of Charlie Bucket in the upcoming Broadway show, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

FAMILY PHOTO Ryan and his family in New York's Central Park.

Photo by Mark Foust. 4 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

After 65 million years, dinosaurs take over Tampa Bay and roam the Zoo for a limited time! Watch history come alive as they roar, move and interact with you. Dinos Alive! is included with admission or membership.

Y PARK ZOO R W O L â&#x20AC;&#x2122;S A P M A T ADULTS $32.95 CHILDREN $24.95

Sink your teeth into this great deal at tlpz.org/dinos MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 5

GUEST EDITOR Heather Barrow

MARCH MADNESS IN TAMPA

MESSAGE FROM GUEST EDITOR HEATHER BARROW

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Laura Byrne

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Anu Varma Panchal

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Anu Varma Panchal Dr. Wendy Rice Jill Hechtman, MD FACOG Jennifer Stancil Courtney Pastor Anna Tataris DeJesus Michelle Bremer Caroline Foss Mandy Gandhi Julianna Hendrickson Aakash Patel Sue Harrell

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

Mark Foust Theresa NeSmith 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

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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 | MAR 2017

One of the things I love about Tampa is it that it’s nearly impossible to get the post-holiday winter blues. We roll from New Year’s Day to Gasparilla festivities through February that turns into March madness. March is filled with events, including the Gasparilla Music Festival, Gasparilla Film Festival, and Strawberry Festival that expose children (and grownups) to a wide range of performing arts virtually for free. This month’s edition of Tampa Bay Parenting magazine has everything you need to know to ensure your family doesn’t miss a beat during our community’s March madness! My husband Bennett and I both grew up in Tampa so we have been attending the Strawberry Festival in Plant City for decades. While my dream of becoming the Strawberry Queen (and sitting in the front row for the country music concerts) will never come true, Bennett and I attend one of the concerts with our kids, Claire (10) and Hill (7), every year. The entertainment line-up is always stacked with top performers that anyone can watch for free. What is not free, but equally important, is the strawberry shortcake. There is no parallel to inseason Plant City strawberries covered in whipped cream on top of a biscuit. Pure heaven. With so much going on in Tampa in March, it’s hard to justify leaving town for spring break. Our kids get two long weeks off so our family usually plans a big trip to a place we’ll all love and from which the kids may actually learn something. In 2016, we flew to San Diego, rented a minivan and drove up the coast to San Francisco. We stopped along the way doing things like the San Diego Zoo cheetah experience, whale-watching in

Dana Shores, seal pup spotting in La Jolla, ice cream at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, beekeeping at Carmel Valley Ranch, cruising to Alcatraz, and tree hugging ancient redwoods at Muir Woods. My kids (and husband) are still talking about that trip, which is why it was a shock to everyone that we would be staying close to home this spring break, but for a very good reason. Their spring break happens to overlap with the Jersey Mike’s Subs Month of Giving, and most importantly, the Day of Giving on March 29, when 100 percent of total sales at 30plus locations in West Central Florida will be donated to High Risk Hope (HRH). HRH is the nonprofit our family founded after our three-month hospital stay surrounding Hill’s premature birth. Since 2011, HRH has helped over 6,000 families who have been placed on long-term hospital bed rest during their pregnancy or delivered a premature baby in our community. The Month of Giving could raise enough donations to enable HRH to reach 2,500 more families in crisis. Our family’s road trip this spring break will involve crisscrossing West Central Florida. We will eat at every Jersey Mike’s Subs location we can to thank our HRH supporters and teach our kids that you don’t have to travel across the country to have an impactful spring break. HEATHER BARROW Founder and Executive Director of High Risk Hope highriskhope.org

MORE WITH HEATHER BARROW ON PAGE 8 Family photo By Christina Higman

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MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 7

Life + Home | Teaching Empathy

Giving our kids the gift of

empathy.

here’s no hiding the fact that my kids, Claire (10) and Hill (7), lead a privileged life. Each morning they are chauffeured (by my husband Bennett or me) to and from a private school munching on fruit (or Cheetos) while they do homework on iPads. They have never felt what it is like to be without a warm bed or to wonder when their next meal will come. They have two parents who love them and would never hurt them, physically or emotionally. It is why my biggest parenting concern, outside of their health, is not if they will one day be successful, but if they will grow up to be kind and empathetic adults. It is also the reason why I focus less on micromanaging their future Olympic careers or schoolwork and more on guiding their charitable hearts. Both of my kids are fully equipped to handle what goes down during the school day on their own. If not, they had better learn quickly! A great example of this is an email I received from Claire last week concerning an invention she had worked on for school and was due to present in class that day. I can’t disclose the details of her invention 8 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

2 for fear of litigation, but her email said, “I forgot my invention at home and we are sharing them today! What should I do??” My first thought was to drive to my house to get the project, drive it to her school, and then drive back to work—a more than one-and-ahalf hour trip. My second thought was if I drive this project to her, I would be delivering projects/homework/ PE gear/lunches for at least the rest of her school career, maybe longer. My response to her email was, “We love you very much, but Dad and I will not bring your project to school. Things like this will repeatedly happen throughout your life if you fail to plan appropriately. We hope you will learn valuable problem-solving skills today in our absence. Tonight we can discuss ways to avoid this in the future (i.e., iCal alert). Love Mom and Dad.” The little negotiator somehow worked it out on her own with her teacher. Claire now knows she is the master of her own schedule and will be barking up the wrong tree if she emails me for a future “emergency” school delivery.

1 Hill sells lemon’aid’ in Ybor City in 2014 to benefit High Risk Hope (HRH) 2 Heather holds Hill for the

first time in the St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital NICU in 2009 Hill and Claire deliver NICU Napsacks to the St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital NICU in 2016 Claire and Hill sell spa water for HRH at the Hyde Park Village Fresh Market in 2013 Hill catches a ride on the HRH cart while Heather makes one of the first HRH deliveries of Bed Rest Baskets to pregnant women on hospital bed rest at St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital in 2011 The Barrow family makes their 8th annual Thanksgiving Day lunch delivery to nurses and hospital staff working on the HROB unit at St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital

HEATHER BARROW Heather is the founder and Executive Director of High Risk Hope

hundreds of children’s books to give to NICU families, organized countless lemonade/dog biscuit/bake sale stands, made deliveries to all of HRH’s local hospitals, and forgone their own sports competitions to attend HRH events. In return, their little hands have in some way touched every one of the 6,000 families HRH has served since 2011. While this path was chosen for them by my husband and me, I am confident it will be our greatest gift to them and the community they eventually live in (hopefully this one!).

Self-managing their charitable work is trickier for both Claire and Hill, as it is nowhere near a top priority for them just yet. It is an area where I feel they need strong and consistent guidance to ensure they develop the foundation in their childhood to become kindhearted and charitable adults. Our family was given a gift very early on with the birth of Hill. I don’t mean leaving the hospital with a healthy baby, although at the time that is all I was focused on. For three full months after my water broke 24 weeks into my pregnancy, I did not know whether Hill would die, live with permanent severe complications or lead a normal life. In a moment, every material thing in our life did not matter and we were forced to rely on the kindness, generosity and empathy of our friends, family and complete strangers. For eight weeks on complete hospital bed rest, I had to permit others to do everything for me, things I would never have imagined allowing a stranger to do. After Hill was born at 32 weeks, we were forced to trust his care in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to dozens of doctors and nurses we never met, while simultaneously entrusting our daughter’s care to the revolving door of friends and family at home. It felt as though we couldn’t take care of both of our children during that time so had to focus all of our energy on the one that needed us the most, Hill. The empathy and kindness our family experienced during that time is a gift I cannot adequately describe to you but one I felt our family was compelled to one day give back to others.

If your family has not been in a situation that you cannot handle on your own, count your blessings but not your chickens. If you haven’t experienced exactly what another

person is going through, the best way to come close is to fully understand their situation, and what is at stake for them. Don’t waste another minute, year or decade waiting for direction in finding your cause. Time flies, and instilling a charitable, kind and empathetic heart in each of your children will ensure they will live the golden rule: to treat others the way they want to be treated. If you don’t know where to start, contact HRH. We have dozens of family volunteer opportunities for our HRH Ambassadors during March (especially on March 29) for our Jersey Mike’s Subs Month of Giving partnership!

It’s safe to say that neither one of them remember one minute of the time we spent in the hospital, but they remember most of what they have done for other families in the same circumstances through our work at High Risk Hope (HRH). HRH is the nonprofit our family founded in 2011 to provide care packages (Bed Rest Baskets and NICU Napsacks) and support to families like ours, who are placed on long-term hospital bed rest during their pregnancy or deliver a premature baby in our community. Claire and Hill have made dozens of trips to the Dollar Tree, counted thousands of inventory units, assembled many Bed Rest Baskets and NICU Napsacks, collected

MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 9

Life + Home | Home Design

Before

After

Transforming your Space to both Functional and Fabulous

When these homeowners were ready to redo this living room, ALL THEY HAD

IN MIND WAS A COLOR COMBINATION,

green and blue. We added rugs, fabric for pillows, built-in accessories and a new coffee table. I shopped HomeGoods for all the built-in accessories. I made sure to buy an even balance of metals and colorful frames for pictures, and the homeowners already owned the green pottery that were family heirlooms. The Seagrass rug is from Ballard Designs and is a steal for an 8x10 at under $250. We layered a more colorful rug in a 5x8 on top to add color and dimension to the space. Finally, I ordered coordinating fabrics from Fabric.com and had a local seamstress sew pillow forms. We are all so happy with the way it came out.

Design tip: Updating your home doesn’t have to involve shelling out the big bucks to contractors and high-end furniture stores. Simple surface fixes can go a long way to improve a look. For instance, a fresh coat of paint

BEFORE in cool colors such as gray, blue and green can bring in a more modern feel. Check out three before and afters for ways to update space by using paint, fabric or simply by adding window treatments.

HAVE A PIECE OF FURNITURE you are

becoming bored with or a hand-me-down that isn’t your style? Give it new life with a coat of paint. Be careful because not all paint is created equal. Annie Sloan Chalk Paint and Milk Paints are perfect choices for this type of job and even a beginner can do it. Not the do-it-yourself type? If you desire a professional’s help, ask your local antique store for suggestions. The cabinet pictured below was painted with Annie Sloan’s Deep Violet on the exterior and Annie Sloan’s Old White on the interior for contrast.

BEFORE 10 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

LAYER A NATURAL RUG WITH A PATTERNED RUG TO CREATE DEPTH AND INTEREST IN THE ROOM.

WINDOW TREATMENTS aren’t always

inexpensive, but they can make your room pop and bring color and life to a space. Bold stripes, geometric patterns and bamboo shades are all modern ways to use window treatments in your home. We replaced the white wooden blinds with a modern bamboo set flanked by sheers in classic white to offset the rich tropical shade.

BEFORE

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

ODUCI

bringthemagichome 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. ©2016 Ethan Allen Global, Inc. ©Disney

MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 11

Life + Home | Networking

WHERE TO BEGIN? Besides the Chamber of

Commerce, I suggest you network with local dining clubs like Tampa Club or Centre Club, as well as your kids’ schools. A lot of them have parent groups that you can volunteer for and support. Other parents in the group could become great assets to your business.

Since creating Elevate, Inc. five years ago, I have learned how welcoming and friendly our Tampa Bay business community is. When I moved here 10 years ago, I didn’t know many people but was very fortunate to have mentors who guided me along the way. When looking for my next venture, I asked several of these friends for guidance. They believed in me and gave me the confidence to start my business consulting firm Elevate, Inc. Since then, I have tried to instill the motto

of helping others in all 30 clients we have today, as well as our seven team members. When we work with a company that just moved here and they ask us to help make a connection to a local CEO, it takes very little time for us to help them achieve their goal. I’ve learned that we live in a very business-friendly environment where people genuinely want to help others, and I am fortunate to be part of the community.

IF YOU’VE BEEN OUT OF THE WORKFORCE FOR A WHILE, TRY TO START BUILDING YOUR NETWORK BY RECONNECTING WITH FRIENDS IN THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY.

Remind them that you are looking to volunteer and get involved in an organization. I suggest going to your local Chamber of Commerce networking lunch and making sure you meet at least five new people. HAVE AN ACTION PLAN TO FOLLOW UP: Once you meet new people, try to connect with

them on LinkedIn and e-mail them within 24 hours. I also suggest you set up phone call or coffee meeting to learn more ways you can help each other.

AKASH PATEL Aakash M. Patel is founder and president of Elevate, Inc. In addition to his responsibilities in firm management, he helps clients in the areas of community relations, social media, target networking, public relations and government affairs. In June 2014, Aakash was appointed chair of the Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County by Governor Scott. 12 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

IF YOU ARE PAINFULLY SHY, MY SUGGESTION IS TO FIND A NETWORKING BUDDY.

Ask a friend to attend an event with you, but not to hang out with you the entire time. You may arrive together, but you don’t chat during the event. After the event, debrief with each other on whom you met and encourage each other to follow up. Most people don’t follow up so having a buddy to help you means you are one step ahead! AS FAR ENCOURAGING YOUR KIDS TO NETWORK, SHARE WITH THEM PERSONAL STORIES OF HOW NETWORKING HAS HELPED THEM .

For example, discuss with them the process of obtaining a loan for your home. If your banker has since referred to you a connection that translated into business, make sure your children understand the importance of that connection. Also ask them to make a list of 3-4 people they consider close friends. Once you go over that list with them, they will understand the value of relationships and it will open up an important dialogue which will help them in the future.

learn. connect. grow. # elevate TAMPA elevate-inc.com

MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 13

Looking for a fun and safe summer camp that your kids will Love?

Camp registration begins in March.

For camp locations, registration and fee information, visit myclearwaterparks.com and click on the Programs tab.

Don’t “bee” left out of the Fun!

All Camps are $100 per week or less, including all field trips!

Saint Paul’s Summer Camp

Robotics Classic Day Camps Grand Slam Baseball

Field Trips Cheerleading Marine Science

2017 Camps for Children Entering PreK-3 through 8th Grade

Registrations: Pierce Wolfinbarger at pwolfinbarger@spsclearwater. org 1600 St. Paul’s Drive • Clearwater, FL | 727.536.2756 | www.ClearwatersIndependentSchool.org

14 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

Circle F Summer Camp 2017

Session One: Two Week

June 11- 24

Session Three: Session Two: Three Week Three Week June 25 - July 15 July 16 - August 5 Session Four: 7 Day August 6 - 12 10 Day August 6 - 15

Call 863.676.4113 Lake Wales, Florida

MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 15

Food + Drink | Strawberry Love

Florida’s strawberry season is in full swing with clamshells of the heart shaped fruit arriving daily at local grocery stores. There’s so much love for this popular fruit that we had to take a closer look at the sweet berry grown right here in our own community!

FRENCH TOAST STRAWBERRY KABOBS INGREDIENTS

1 loaf French bread or Texas toast 6 eggs ½ cup milk 2 teaspoons sugar ½ to 1 teaspoon cinnamon 2 – 3 tablespoons oil 1 quart fresh Florida strawberries – washed with caps removed PREPARATION

Cut the French bread into 1-inch slices. Cut off the crusts and cut into cubes. I got 2 square cubes out of each slice.

STRAWBERRY FACTS Plant City, Florida is recognized worldwide as the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World and is the dominant region in the United States that produces strawberries in the winter.

Beat the eggs until well mixed. Add the milk and stir it in. Stir in the cinnamon and sugar. Add the cubes to the egg mixture. I turned them over with tongs. When coated, place on a plate. Repeat until each of the cubes is coated with the egg mixture.

A dash of balsamic vinegar, lemon juice or orange juice will bring out the flavor of strawberries.

Heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the cubes, brown on all sides. Remove to a paper towel.

Strawberries are the only fruit that have seeds on the outside — about 200 of them.

Thread 3 pieces of French toast on an 8-inch skewer, alternating with a strawberry. Serve with syrup. This recipe riginally posted at recipesfoodandcooking.com

STRAWBERRY BRIE FLATBREAD SALAD INGREDIENTS

1 large thin flatbread 6 thin slices of brie cheese, approximately ¼ brie wheel. Skin removed and sliced thin 6 large Florida strawberries or 9 medium Florida strawberries, sliced thin 1 cup of arugula 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon champagne vinegar or white wine vinegar 16 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

1 tablespoon honey Fresh ground sea salt and pepper to taste PREPARATION

Preheat oven to 350ºF. Lay the flatbread on a pizza tray and evenly top with the slices of brie cheese. Bake for approximately 8 minutes or until the flatbread is crispy and the cheese is bubbling. Let cool for 5 minutes. In a small bowl, mix the arugula, olive oil and vinegar. Layer a row of Florida strawberries on top

of the brie flatbread. Top with the arugula. Add the additional sliced strawberries on top of the arugula. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with fresh ground salt and pepper to taste. This recipe originally posted at familyfoodie.com

2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL March 2-12 in Plant City, Florida Learn more: flstrawberryfestival.com

Strawberry Love | Food + Drink

FLORIDA STRAWBERRY NUTELLA PIZZA INGREDIENTS

Pizza dough for one pizza 1 jar of Nutella 8 ounce bittersweet chocolate bar 4 cups of sliced Florida strawberries PREPARATION

Preheat the oven to 450°F. If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven as it pre-heats. This will give you an extra crispy crust just like a traditional stone pizza oven! Roll out the dough on a floured surface. Pressing from the center out in a circular motion, start forming your pizza. It’s important to keep the dough density consistent so flip the dough and reflour from time to time. Take your pizza stone out of the oven. Dust the top of the pizza stone with flour and carefully place the pizza dough on the stone. Place back into the oven and bake for around 10 minutes or until its edges are puffy and the crust begins to turn golden brown. Once the pizza is ready, remove from the oven and the pizza stone. Now spread the Nutella and don’t be afraid to be as generous as you like! Grate the dark chocolate bar over the Nutella. Evenly distribute the sliced strawberries, slice and enjoy! This recipe originally posted at floridastrawberry.org

HEALTH BENEFITS OF EATING STRAWBERRIES Strawberries provide essential nutrients and minerals including fiber, potassium, vitamin C and powerful antioxidants such as anthocyanins, quercetin and ellagic acid. Eating eight strawberries a day has been shown to lower blood pressure and to improve memory and heart health. Eating strawberries on a regular basis may lower the risk of some cancers and help reduce obesity.

WITH SUE HARRELL Sue Harrell, or Strawberry Sue, has been marketing director and spokesperson for the Florida Strawberry Growers Association since 2007, and she’s been farming, marketing and promoting Florida-grown strawberries for almost 40 years.

MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 17

18 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

Tampa Preparatory School summer programs

Friendship and fun in downtown Tampa!

Ca m p Te rr a pi n aCa de m iC s roboTi Cs sporTs en ri Ch m enT

727 West Cass St. Tampa, Florida 33606 | 813.251.8481

Prep-TBParenting17.indd 1

2/7/17 3:34 PM

* A g e s 7 - 11 American Girl

June 5-9 & June 12-16

His tor y Adv ent ure Ca mp s inc lud e:

Field trip & Guest Speaker Outdoor fun Take-Home Memory Book Museum Insiderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tour

es Archaeolog y Mysteri June 26-30

Pirates & Explorers July 10-14

Museum Makerspac July 24-28

at the tampa bay history center

Hysterical History July 31- Aug. 4

801 Old Water Street | 813.675.8987

MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 19

Every bite colorful. Every bite clean. Every salad is clean. No artificial preservatives, sweeteners, flavors, or colors from artificial sources.

STRAWBERRY POPPYSEED WITH CHICKEN

PaneraBread.com

20 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

WHERE BELONGING LEADS TO LEARNING Does your child have an Individualized Education Plan? Are you looking for a school that believes your child can thrive with the right services to support them socially and academically? Pepin Academies is Enrolling Now! Serving 3rd –12th grades, and job training for young adults. Call us today and find out if your child is eligible.

TUITION FREE PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOLS FOR STUDENTS WITH SPECIFIC LEARNING

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MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 21

K2 - 6th Grade Visit us at www.hcatampa.org

What if there was a school

where your child could explore without having to “choose” one activity over another too soon in life? Where your child would have the opportunity to lead clubs, shine on the stage, and be a star on the field?

there is.

BALANCE We embrace experiences that balance academics, fine arts, athletics, and co-curricular activities.

#AATLvalues

22 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

PreK3-Grade 12

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Learn more about our core values and schedule a tour at

academyatthelakes.org/values

Preschools | Education

Questions teachers wish you asked

WHEN CHOOSING A PRESCHOOL

Whether they are choosing a pediatrician or analyzing reviews of baby gear, new parents aren’t afraid to do their research to make the best decisions for their child. But when it comes time to look for a preschool, the task can seem overwhelming. To really get to know a school, you’ll need to go beyond the basic questions about hours, tuition and policies. Here are seven questions teachers wish parents would ask them when they come for a visit. WHAT’S YOUR EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY?

Approaches at preschools are as varied as the children who attend them. Schools may follow certain methods, such as Montessori or Waldorf, or emphasize global mindedness in the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme. A school may value learning through play and movement or set up a curriculum to meet academic benchmarks. Faith-based schools integrate age-appropriate lessons on religion. Many schools draw from a combination of philosophies, but it’s good to have a sense of what drives instruction. WHAT ARE YOU KNOWN FOR? Asking

this question helps you glimpse what makes a school standout, says Corbett Prep PreK3 teacher Lori Seise. Different from a school philosophy, it gives teachers a chance to talk about their marquee programs, revealing information about what and how students learn. Seise loves to share about Corbett Prep’s PreK3 unit on artistic expressions, where students take an active tour of art history, producing their own masterworks, which are displayed in a gallery for parents to tour. HOW DO YOU COMMUNICATE WITH FAMILIES? You should always feel wel-

come to talk with teachers about your child’s progress, but it’s good to know how they communicate on a daily basis, too. Do they send home daily reports? E-mail photo albums once a week? School-based programs may hold parent-teacher conferences a few times a year as well. You can also ask how to get involved with the school, whether

you want to help the teacher, work behind the scenes or volunteer in a parent association. WHAT IS THE ROLE OF MOVEMENT AND PLAY? Play is important. So is

movement. And they serve different functions. Active free play can improve children’s thinking skills, studies have shown, as well as help them socially, emotionally and physically. Movement, on the other hand, also benefits children by making learning more active, appealing to different learning styles and helping students process and retain new information. A good program will make time for both. HOW DO YOU TEACH INDEPENDENCE?

You’ll be surprised at how much your child can do on his or her own, and it’s important to find a school that allows students to grow and learn self-sufficiency and responsibility. Preschoolers enjoy helping, and teachers often let students take turns leading a line, holding doors or feeding the class pet. A school may use visual cues to help pre-readers remember classroom rules, such as when it is OK to speak in class. Teachers may expect students to sign in by themselves and put lunchboxes in their cubbies. They may even have rules for parents to ensure children have a chance to try something on their own without mom or dad’s help. WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE OUTSIDE OF THE CLASSROOM? Extra-

curricular activities, preschool arts programs, language lessons or physical education are about more than priming your child for an Ivy

League education, Broadway debut or college sports scholarship. While exposure to the arts, languages and athletics can spark lifelong interests, different activities help child development. Students hone their fine motor skills in art classes, for example, and practice teamwork and hone coordination when playing sports. Ask what enrichment programs are part of the school day or whether after-school activities are available. HOW DO YOU PREVENT CHALLENGING BEHAVIOR? Of course parents should

ask how the school handles discipline. But wouldn’t it be great to prevent meltdowns and misbehavior when possible? Aimee Popalis, a teacher in the Corbett Prep PreK3 program, suggests posing this question to find out what strategies teachers use. You may learn how the school day is structured to meet children’s needs, creative tactics teachers use to hold attention or how teachers address social and emotional learning. Most importantly, spend some time before you visit a school thinking about your child’s personality and what is important to your family. There’s no wrong way for schools to answer these questions, but you might be looking for a different program or philosophy than the one your friends and neighbors chose for their children.

Public, private, day care, prekindergarten, half-day, full-day — parents have more choices than ever for their 3and 4-year-olds’ education. So how do you determine the best fit for your family? Start by talking with the people who know the programs the best, the teachers who teach them.

“It’s knowing the questions to ask and knowing what to do with the answer,” Popalis says. COURTNEY CAIRNS PASTOR

Courtney is the communications coordinator for Corbett Prep, a PreK3-8th grade school in North Tampa. Previously she covered parenting, features and education for The Tampa Tribune. MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 23

Education | Local Kids on Broadway

The Lights of Broadway

TAMPA BAY STUDENTS MAKING IT BIG IN NYC!

Ryan Foust, a 12-year-old student at Corbett Preparatory School in Tampa, is about to make one of the biggest debuts in his theater career, cast as one of three young men to play Roald Dahl’s beloved character, Charlie Bucket, in “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” He’s held several theatrical roles locally in Tampa Bay, but this is his first go on Broadway! His parents didn’t push him into theater at a young age, but they did instill the importance of being able to talk to people whether it’s one-on-one or in front of a large crowd. This sparked Foust’s love for the stage, but it was the connections he made at Corbett Prep that helped land him the role on Broadway.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory opens March 28 at the LuntFontanne Theatre in New York City. Ryan’s dad Mark tells us Ryan has signed on for one year to perform as Charlie Bucket and will continue his studies with Corbett Prep remotely. Q: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN ACTOR/ PERFORMER?

Watching the 25th Anniversary of Les Misérables on PBS. I was 5. My parents taped it (on our DVR) and I wanted to watch it over and over again. After two months, I memorized the entire play. Then my parents introduced me to Phantom (of the Opera). Les Mis inspired me, but Phantom made me want to get onstage. Q: HOW DID YOUR TEACHERS ENCOURAGE YOU TO GO AFTER YOUR DREAM?

It wasn't an encouragement to go on Broadway. It was encouragement to be better. Seth Travaglino (Ryan's Community School of the Arts Theater Director) and the older performers (middle school students) became mentors and helped me. I was only looking to get better. Q: WE HAVE TO KNOW: WHAT WAS GOING THROUGH YOUR MIND WHEN YOU FOUND OUT YOU WERE CAST AS CHARLIE IN “CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY?”

It was my first audition for a Broadway play. I loved “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” but never expected to get cast. I was so excited to be brought back for an audition (after a video submission). I then had a couple more auditions and then waited to hear back. When I found out I was speechless. My mind was racing through thoughts of what was to come and how this could change my career and my life. 24 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

Ryan Foust: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

I was laughing, crying, jumping, excited, motivated and relieved. I thought of going up on that Broadway stage in New York City.

Q: WHAT HAS IT BEEN LIKE LIVING IN NEW YORK CITY AND BEING A PART OF THE BROADWAY EXPERIENCE?

Thrilling. I love the activity in New York. It is so alive. When you see all of these people passing by you, you think "I can't wait to perform for these people." I can never stop smiling. It is like a movie. You walk into the rehearsal space, it makes you feel alive---like a bird flying through the air. In school, I've been lifted by Mr. T (Seth Travaglino) and this is the chance where I have the running head start to fly. Q: WHAT'S YOUR ADVICE FOR OTHER KIDS ABOUT PURSUING THEIR DREAMS?

Don't be worried. Tell yourself your nervous energy is really excitement. Think about "How can I be better?" Before you go onstage, you always get nervous. You have to learn how to go onstage. Once you get onto that stage, it feels amazing.

Francesca Granell: Cats Francesca Granell isn’t a kid anymore at 27 years, but the Tampa native wouldn’t be where she is today without the guidance of her family, teachers and dance instructors in Tampa. Her passion for dance started at age 4 when she began taking lessons at Frank Rey Dance Studio in Tampa. The Gaither High School graduate went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature from Florida State University in 2012 before moving to New York City to pursue her lifelong dream of performing on stage. It was a good gamble. She was immediately cast in the national tour of “Shrek” and then went on tour with Green Day’s “American Idiot” before taking on roles with several regional productions. She got her big break on Broadway in 2015 when she was cast in “Finding Neverland,” but the chance of a lifetime came when she landed in a role in the Broadway revival of “Cats” last year. Q: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PERFORM ON STAGE?

I was inspired when I saw my first musical at the Straz Performing Arts Center at age 7 — “Carousel.” I discovered a passion for singing and dancing at an early age, and I loved how you could do both in musical theatre! Q: HOW DID YOUR TEACHERS AND PARENTS ENCOURAGE YOU TO PURSUE YOUR DREAMS?

My mom put me in dance classes at such an early age, and my teachers must have sensed how much I loved it, so they always supported me and pushed me to keep going. My mom took me on many trips to New York City and exposed me to Broadway shows and dance classes at Broadway Dance Center. For instance, I met my “Cats” choreographer Andy Blankenbuehler when I was only 10 years old in his week-long summer dance intensive. I’ve kept in touch throughout the years and taken his classes ever since. Now I’m fortunate enough to call him my boss. Q: WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED IN SUCH A COMPETITIVE FIELD?

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PRODUCTION AT CHARLIEONBROADWAY.COM.

It’s important to not get caught up in comparing yourself to other people in the business. It’s a very competitive industry, but it’s important to stay grounded and supportive of your peers. We lift each other up. I still take class when I can and see as much theatre as I can so I’m constantly exposing myself to the world of art around me. You have to always replenish and let yourself remember why you love it.

Q: DESCRIBE HOW IT FEELS TO BE PART OF SUCH AN INCREDIBLY POPULAR PRODUCTION LIKE “CATS.”

It’s pretty surreal. I literally cried everyday in rehearsal just from observing the sheer brilliance of everyone around me. It’s a dancer’s dream show. The music is epic. And I’m a swing, so every time I get onstage, I’m on for a featured role. It’s the most exhilarating and exhausting physical feat I’ve ever been a part of. My favorite experience so far with “Cats” was when 150-plus alumni from the original companies of “Cats” were invited to see the show. They never stopped cheering us on from start to finish. The energy in the theatre was so electric, and it fueled us to dance harder than we ever have. It’s a performance I’ll never forget. Q: WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR KIDS WHO WOULD LIKE TO PERFORM? OR EVEN JUST GO AFTER THEIR DREAMS?

The thing is, this business is hard. Breaking in is difficult, and roadblocks will get in the way, but you can’t let a few “no’s” stop you from pursuing what you love. It was not an easy road for me at first. I didn’t get accepted into any of the musical theatre college programs that I auditioned for. I didn’t get cast in any musicals at FSU. But I knew I wanted to do this, and the setbacks pushed me harder to prove to myself that I could. You just have to let that thirst fuel you. And take note of the little victories along the way.

MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 25

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26 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

Girls and STEM | Education

You Go Girl!

Building your Daughter’s STEM Confidence It’s International Women’s Month and that gives us the opportunity to shine an even brighter light on equity, particularly around what girls dream about becoming in their future. For decades, I’ve been lucky enough to work with girls of our next generation, providing them a door into the amazing world of science, technology, engineering and math. As a scientist myself, with a lot of math in my background, it’s disheartening to see an imbalance in the women-to-men ratio in careers like engineering and astrophysics. That said, I have seen promising changes during the last 25 years for women in science. As a society, our emphasis on STEM is encouraging. A college at Yale was just named for Grace Hopper (one of the nation’s first women computer programmers) and the fabulous “Hidden Figures” film showed us a portrait of strong African American women pioneers in math. But the literature I’m reading also tells a story that we haven’t told before, that very, very young girls (in kindergarten) for instance, are feeling biases around their abilities in math, even though they are below the surface. Parents can reinforce STEM confidence at home as early in life as possible. Here’s a few tips from my house to your house.

GO BIG. GO SMALL. Girls respond to

STEM topics more acutely if they are relevant to their lives. So, first, focus on the things that she cares about in her own world – whether that be pets or water quality. Plug that into science. Then, if you can, combine it with a larger altruistic goal that has a worldly bent. When she’s ready, you might say: “I love that you care that everyone has access to clean water. Maybe you can use that passion to rethink how, say, families in Africa engineer a well. There’s a great organization called Engineers without Borders. Let’s look it up together.”

RETHINK PRAISE. Let’s face it. STEM subjects

can be absolutely difficult, no matter what your gender. So, when a girl gets a great grade or wins a science fair, don’t make that the “end-all, be-all” achievement. Rather, praise her hard work. By focusing on effort and not outcome, you build internal brain circuits for resilience, not just pride in a number or letter.

MAKE SPACE. I have had more contraptions built

around my house that STAY than I care to admit. For this Christmas, a microphone stand created the basis for a pulley system for our mistletoe to go up and down over unsuspecting couples (aka Mom and Dad). Whether you order a Tinker Crate to your house, or just go outside and create a collection of shells, make space for science in your home. The idea is this: You’re giving permission for science to go on at any time for your daughter. And STEM applied anytime, anywhere, is the resulting mindset.

As a scientist myself, with a lot of math in my background, it’s disheartening to see an imbalance in the womento-men ratio in careers like engineering and astrophysics. That said, I have seen promising changes during the last 25 years for women in science.

JENNIFER STANCIL Jennifer Stancil is president and CEO of Glazer Children’s Museum.

At the Glazer Children’s Museum, we’ll be making announcements soon about new commitments we’re making to advance a statewide coalition around girls and STEM. In addition, we’re pairing with NSF and the National Girls Collaborative Project to create afterschool programs for girls. We’re fully engaged in the ongoing push of the Tampa Bay STEM Network to align private industry, academia and our local non-profits in an energetic and cooperative movement to provide STEM pathways for all of Tampa Bay. Follow Glazer Children’s Museum on Facebook or Twitter and look to our website at glazermuseum.org to continue to find out more about how we’re leveling the playing field for girls in STEM – not just in March, but year-round. MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 27

Education | Summer Camp Guide

CAMP BAYSHORE 3909 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa 813-839-4297, Ext. 344;

BEST

bayshorechristianschool.org This day camp for 3-year-olds to rising sixth graders is a fun, safe, Christian camp full of field trips, swimming, sports, the arts, music, shows and various activities. Visit the website to learn more information, see photos from past summers, explore camp calendars and schedules, and to register for this summer.

CAMP DOVEWOOD: SLEEP –AWAY CHRISTIAN CAMP FOR GIRLS IN NORTH FLORIDA 23221 101st Road, O’Brien 386-935-0863; campdovewood@windstream.net

HILLSBOROUGH ACADEMY AT THE LAKES 2331 Collier Parkway, Land O’Lakes 813-948-7600; academyatthelakes.org

Campers ages 3-14 can choose from many activities, including sports, arts, recreation, science, technology and academic review. Academy also offers Summer School for both noncredit and for-credit courses for students Grade 12.

BERKELEY SUMMER PROGRAMS 4811 Kelly Road, Tampa 813-885-1673; berkeleyprep.org/summer

Mod design, app design, video game development, equestrian, archery, fine arts, Rock & Roll Camp, Lego, basketball, baseball, band, debate, football, swimming, golf, rock climbing, lacrosse, soccer, softball, tennis, chess, driver’s ed, Financial Literacy for Teenagers, woodworking, math camp, and so much more – there’s something for everyone at Berkeley Summer Programs! Pre-K to Grade 12. Register online. Over 100 camps and classes, including high school credit courses. Before and after care. Lunch options available.

BUSCH GARDENS CAMPS 3000 E. Busch Blvd., Tampa 813-884-4FUN;

buschgardens.com/camps Camps include resident camps that marry the best of the park’s offerings into multiday, sleep-away programs for students in grades five through college. Day camps are weeklong and provide campers in kindergarten through eighth grade with hands-on, educational experiences with animals and the outdoors, as well as Counselor-In-Training programs for grades 9-12.

28 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

campdovewood.org This year Camp Dovewood celebrates 40 years of dynamic, fun-filled camping in North Florida. Dovewood is a traditional interdenominational Christian camp for girls 7-16 offering one-, two-, and threeweek sessions from June until the end of July. We have an outstanding equestrian program as well as many more activities like: archery, drama, dance, swimming, river rafting, cheerleading, cooking, art, music, softball, volleyball, tennis, basketball, gymnastics, Bible, soccer, baton, water ballet, basketball, Christian leadership and more. Accredited : American Camping Association, Camp Horsemanship Association and member of Christian Camp and Conference Center.

CAMP IDS 12015 Orange Grove Dr., Tampa 813-961-3087; corbettprep.com

Campers can try archery or video game design in the morning and dabble in painting or French cooking in the afternoon. More than 60 half- and full-day camps! Academic camps include math, science, reading, writing and technology. Lego Robotics, performing arts, sports and more ensure everyone has a great time! Camps run June 12-July 28. Free morning drop-off at 7:15 am. After-care (3-6 pm) and transportation available for a fee.

CAMP IMAGINATION AT GLAZER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM 110 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa 813-443-3861; glazermuseum.org/camp

Calling all kids! The Glazer Children’s Museum’s New Camp Imagination is the place to be this summer break. Discover new ways to learn and play all summer long with: Imaginative weekly themes, exclusive SMALLab experiences, museum playtime, and more! Camps run June 5- Aug. 4 for ages 5-10. Register now!

CAMP JCC AT THE BRYAN GLAZER FAMILY JCC 522 N. Howard Avenue, Tampa 813-769-4797;

BryanGlazerFamilyJCC.com/Camp June 12 – Aug. 14, 2017 Are you looking for a weekly specialty summer camp for your child? Camp JCC offers an interactive day-camp experience with flexible weekly program offerings in dance, the arts, musical theatre, iMovie, swimming, indoor hockey, volley ball and basketball. Register online starting Feb. 12!

CAMP JCC ON THE COHN CAMPUS 13009 Community Campus Drive, Tampa 813-769-4748; jewishtampa.com/camp

June 5 – August 4, 2017 Are you looking for a full summer or 3-week session day-camp offering for your child? Situated on a scenic 21-acre property, Camp JCC promises to deliver an engaging and active experience for children entering grades 1 – 8 with a myriad of indoor and outdoor activities. Is your child interested in the arts, swimming, sports, nature, canoeing, music, archery, obstacle courses, creative production, climbing, zip lining, field trips and more? Then Camp JCC is the summer camp experience for your family! Register online starting February 12th!

CAMP SEAL 19501 Holly Lane, Lutz 813-229-7946; sealswimschool.com

Seal Swim School now provides a fantastic aquatic camp program for children 4-10. Each camp week will center on a theme where your child will enjoy a variety of activities such as swim lessons, recreational swim, outdoor sports, indoor games, archery, arts and crafts, field trips and much, much more

CDS TURN IT UP SUMMER CAMP 2017 1515 West Bearss Ave., Tampa 813-920-2288;

CarrollwoodDaySchool.org CDS Summer Day Camps offer all-day themed camps running from 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. for students entering grades 1 through 8. These camps provide opportunities for children to explore their imagination and develop skills during the summer weeks. Each week of camp the campers will attend one field trip and visit an off site pool. Before and after care is also available.

CITY OF TAMPA PARKS & RECREATION SUMMER PROGRAMS Various Locations 813-274-3345;

tampagov.net/summercamp Choose from a variety of one-week specialty camps or the 10-week Recreate, Educate, Create (R.E.C.) Summer Camps. Specialty camps are designed for your child’s individual interests in sports, arts, aquatics, theater and nature. R.E.C. Camps will engage your child with various activities and fieldtrips. Camps are located throughout Tampa’s city limits and are open to city and non-city residents. Programs are geared for toddlers to teens. Early care and after care are also available.

COLOR ME MINE 1609 W. Snow Circle, Tampa 813-258-8368;

tampa.colormemine.com Everyone’s favorite pottery studio is now offering summer day camps for a wide range of ages. Kids will explore pottery, painting, glazing and more.

FLORIDA ACADEMY OF THE PERFORMING ARTS 402 Oakfield Drive, Brandon 813-490-2787; faopa.org

Florida Academy of the Performing Arts camp offers acting, crafts, games, singing, drums, musical theatre, beginner guitar, beginner violin, fun activities and more. This camp is for kids ages 5 and up and offer your child the opportunity to learn and grow their talent.

HILLSDALE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 6201 Ehrlich Road, Tampa 813-884-8250; hcatampa.org

Get your camper ready for a summer of learning and adventure! Two- and young 3-year-olds will enjoy Birds, Bugs & Bubbles Galore!, while 3- and 4-year-olds will experience a Trip Around the World. First through sixth graders will have an all-new program featuring outdoor adventures, drama, music, messy science, and other exciting theme-based weeks with well-trained staff, field trips, crafts, and daily theme sessions weekly. Please call or visit our website for registration information.

KIDS’ COLLEGE SUMMER CAMPS AT HCC 39 Columbia Dr., Tampa 813-259-6010; tampatraining.com/kids-college Empowering today’s youth for tomorrow’s SUCCESS! Not just another play camp, Kids’ College at Hillsborough Community College offers a unique balance of learning and fun that keeps

our campers growing during the summer. Topics including video game design, fashion, architecture, acting, entrepreneurship, police & fire, STEM, dance and many more. Our philosophy is simple: to provide your child with engaging activities that challenge them intellectually, physically and creatively.

KUMON MATH AND READING CENTERS 1-800-ABC-MATH; kumon.com

Kumon can give your child a lifetime of advantages. The Kumon Program is designed to advance your child’s math and reading skills and love for learning – providing an academic advantage throughout school. Kumon sparks critical thinking, establishes a pattern of success, and builds confidence that can lead to accelerated learning throughout life. Parents are encouraged to attend a free orientation at any of our Kumon Math and Reading Centers in the local community.

MONTESSORI ACADEMIES/PREPARATORY SCHOOLS Tampa, Temple Terrace, and New Tampa locations 813-899-2345; montessoriacademies.com Montessori’s summer curriculum includes math, language, science, social studies, Chinese, Spanish and more! (12 months - 5th Grade)

SUMMER TIME COOKING SCHOOL FOR KIDS & TEENS 5224 S. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa 813-408-1078;

JuniorChefsOfAmerica.org Do you have a budding chef at home? We have the perfect summer program for them! Sign them up today to join with professional chefs from Tampa to bring them the best hands-on learning experience they can have this summer. This is a 2-week program that will begin in July. Don't forget to register them for our 2nd annual cook-off on Sept. 3. Early registration suggested, classes fill up quickly!

TAMPA BAY HISTORY CENTER ADVENTURE CAMPS 801 Old Water St., Tampa 813-228-0097;

TampaBayHistoryCenter.org Spend your summer with one-eyed pirates, mysterious mermaids and wooly mammoths during the History Center's History Adventure Camps. Step back into Florida's past with unique games and projects, themed field trips, outdoor fun, and hands-on interactions with real historians and experts. Camps are open to children ages 7 – 11 and led by experienced educators dedicated to providing unique, educational and engaging experiences campers won't forget.

TAMPA PREPARATORY SCHOOL SUMMER PROGRAMS AND CAMP TERRAPIN 727 W. Cass St., Tampa 813-251-8481;tampaprep.org/summer

Camp Terrapin is Tampa Prep’s wellknown coeducational, sports and fine arts camp for students entering first through eighth grades. Structured activities and theme days provide friendship and fun in downtown Tampa. Additional summer programs include a variety of sports camps and courses in robotics, academics and enrichment. This summertime extension of our award-winning day school program offers something for everyone!

TAMPA THEATRE 711 N. Franklin St., Tampa 813-274-8286; tampatheatre.org

Each summer, Tampa Theatre’s historic auditorium lights up with young filmmakers working together to produce their visions on-screen. Campers entering grades 3-12 work in small groups to learn the creative process of live and stop-motion animation filmmaking, from storyboarding and scriptwriting to filming and editing. All necessary equipment is provided so that by the end of the weeklong session, each production team will have a 3-5 minute movie to debut on the big screen.

THIS SUMMER AT MARY JO’S 15906 Mapledale Blvd., Tampa 813-969-0240; mjpaa.com/summer

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

PATEL CONSERVATORY 1010 N. MacInnes Place, Tampa 813-222-1040; patelconservatory.org

Offering more than 50 camps and classes in dance, theater and music for all ages and experience levels for ages 3 through college. These camps will give your child the confidence and creativity that they love and that will last a lifetime.

MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 29

Education | Summer Camp Guide

ZOO CAMPS AT TAMPA’S LOWRY PARK ZOO 1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa 813-935-8552, Ext. 268; LowryParkZoo.org May 22 – Aug. 9 Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo is thrilled to be the first in Tampa Bay to offer an all-inclusive camp program with extended care, a healthy daily lunch, a cool t-shirt and a ticket to come back to the Zoo and show off what they’ve learned – all free with registration! Kids and teens can learn about nature, science and the animal kingdom while hiking through the Zoo and exploring behind-the-scenes.

PINELLAS ADMIRAL FARRAGUT ACADEMY SUMMER DAY CAMPS & BOARDING PROGRAM 501 Park St. N., St. Petersburg 727-384-5500, Ext. 230;

farragut.org/summer June-August 2017. Camps are open to the public, include a hot lunch, and are held on our campus with a private pool and waterfront! The day camps include STEM, Little Captains, Little Explorers, sports and writing. The summer boarding program for rising eighth-12th graders is a two-, four-, or six-week college prep experience where attendees live on campus and can earn an academic high school credit or take electives like marine science, aviation, and engineering.

AMERICAN STAGE SUMMER CAMP AND TEEN SUMMER INSTITUTE 163 Third St. N., St. Petersburg 727-823-1600 ext 204; education@americanstage.org

americanstage.org/summer Choose from one to three-week sessions for grades K-12. Experience quality theatre training in a positive environment, giving young people the tools to be bolder, wiser and more compassionate on stage and in life. Studying theatre not only helps students become accomplished and confident performers, it also empowers creative, intellectual and emotional growth. All experience levels welcome! Staff is comprised of working theatre professionals with a passion for teaching.

CLEARWATER ICE ARENA & TAMPA BAY CLEARWATER SUMMER CAMPS 2017 “THE PLACE TO BE!” Various Locations 727-562-4800;

myclearwaterparks.com Clearwater Camps are the place to be for fun! For $100 or less per week, campers receive all field trips, supplies, a t-shirt and 50 hours of fun activities. Each week,

30 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

campers will enjoy a wide variety of fun activities including; fantastic field trips, goofy games, spectacular guest speakers, creative craft projects and other awesome activities. Additionally, each week a different positive character trait will be discussed and celebrated. Campers will build new friendships and create life-long memories under the supervision of caring adults. Each camp counselor is carefully selected based on their experience and love of children. Call the recreation center of your choice to set up an interview.

CROSSFIT BLACKBEARD KIDS SUMMER CAMP 4400 34th St. N. Unit K, St. Petersburg crossfitblackbeard@gmail.com;

crossfitblackbeard.com/summer-camp/ Experience fitness-focused fun at CrossFit Blackbeard this summer! Campers will learn coordination, sports preparation, and teamwork with fun daily activities, sports, games and more! Supplement your child's sports or play activities during the summer months, or provide them with an opportunity to explore their fitness interests and build self-esteem.

DUNEDIN FINE ART CENTER 1143 Michigan Blvd., Dunedin 727-298-3322; dfac.org/tbp

DFAC’s Summer Art Academy’s seven separate age-appropriate camps offer fun, creative, cognitive summer enrichment experiences for kids and teens from 4 1/2 to 16 years old. Activities include drawing painting, sculpture, photography, clay and digital arts as well as Arts in Motion curriculum. This year, individually themed weeks include Shark Week, Wild West, Kooky Carnivals and a Mars Masters’ Mash Up.

ECKERD COLLEGE SUMMER WATERSPORTS CAMP 4200 54th Ave. South, St. Petersburg 727-864-8288;

eckerd.edu/waterfront/camp Weekly classes, June 5-Aug. 4. The Eckerd College Waterfront Program, one of the largest collegiate programs in the United States, offers classes in exploring watersports, sailing, wakeboarding, windsurfing, kayaking, saltwater fishing, Little Mariners, and exploring marine life for students ages 5-17. Located on Boca Ciega Bay in St. Petersburg, the school provides the perfect environment for learning watersports! Classes at the Waterfront Program have been in existence for more than 45 years. Through those years we have introduced thousands of children and adults to the wonderful

world of watersports. We look forward to meeting you or your children and providing you with an exciting and unforgettable experience!

GREAT EXPLORATIONS SUMMER CAMP 1925 4th St. N., St. Petersburg 727-821-8992 greatex.org

Great Explorations summer camps are a fantastic way to have fun while school is out! Our camps stimulate learning and imagination with themes ranging from Out of this World to Full STEAM Ahead. Days are filled with experiments, arts, field trips, guest presentations and museum play time! Our week-long camps are designed for students entering VPK through third grade with a new and exciting theme starting each Monday.

JEWISH COMMUNITY CAMP 1685 S. Belcher Rd. Clearwater 727-530- 3223;

jewishcommunitycamp.org Join us for our inaugural year at the beautiful camp facilities on the Temple B’nai Israel property. This facility gives our camp an abundance of space for small and large group activities. All swimming is held at neighboring community pools and transportation for all field trips will be provided. We welcome all children, regardless of religious affiliation or observance, to participate in our camp experience and to share in our rich Jewish heritage.

PALM HARBOR MONTESSORI ACADEMY 2355 Nebraska Ave., Palm Harbor 727-786-1854;

palmharbormontessori.com Full-day themed camp sessions for ages 3-12 featuring outside play and swimming! Outdoor environments include state-of-the-art pool facilities, soccer field, basketball court, hydroponics garden, and four spacious and secured playgrounds for fun, learning and meeting new friends. Camp themes include music, drama, Spanish, exploring the world, America the beautiful and more.

SAINT PAUL’S SCHOOL 1600 St. Paul’s Drive, Clearwater 727-536-2756;

clearwatersindependentschool.org June 5 – Aug. 4 Robotics, marine science, baseball, cheerleading, cooking, fine arts, field trips, recreationand activities, and classic day camps! With the variety of camps being offered this summer, making fun, long-lasting memories won't be hard to do! Camps for 3-year-olds through rising eighth graders. Camp hours: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Before and after care is available. Our full day camps will

accommodate your working schedule as early as 8 a.m. and as late as 6 p.m. It’s a Saint Paul’s summer, come be a part of the fun!

SKATING ACADEMY

tampabayice.com Have a cool time on the ice this summer at one or more of our ice skating camps designed for beginner through advanced level ice skaters ages 5 through 12. Each camp features daily on and off ice instruction, supervised on-ice “free time”, lunch, arts/crafts and games. Camps are offered at all three locations for recreational, figure and hockey skaters. Go to tampabayice.com for details and to register.

SUMMER CAMP AT CLEARWATER MARINE AQUARIUM 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater 727-441-1790; seewinter.com

Pre-K to 10th Grade. Week long camps (June through August) taught by experts like marine biologists, rescue team members, animal caregivers, and more! Camps focus on hands-on learning in a safe, fun, and friendly environment. Snorkeling, kayaking and boating are just some of the activities offered. Learn about our resident animals and the work we do every day at a working marine animal hospital. Seasonal camps are also offered during the spring, fall and winter!

SUMMER AT SHORECREST 5101 First St. N.E., St. Petersburg 727-522-2111; shorecrest.org/summer

From an adventure-themed day camp for preschoolers to sixth-grade academic enrichment, all the way to a professional theatre bootcamp for serious thespians, there’s something for everyone this summer at Shorecrest. An auxiliary program of Shorecrest Preparatory School, Summer at Shorecrest offers nearly 100 different camp sessions, serving students from 3 years to those rising into grade 12. Programs run May 29-Aug. 11.

TAMPA BAY WATCH 3000 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde 727-867-8166 ext. 246; tampabaywatch.org/summer-camps Does your child have an interest in marine science? If so, this is their chance to learn more about it! Send them to Tampa Bay Watch this summer for some fun in the sun with Estuary EDventures summer camps where they will learn about amazing Tampa Bay the ocean, and its inhabitants!

TAMPA BAY TURNERS GYMNASTICS AND SWIMMING ACADEMY 2301 26th St. N., St. Petersburg 727-328-8500; tampabayturners.com

Kids can participate in gymnastics and tumbling classes, swim lessons starting at six months in our indoor pool, birthday parties, summer day camps, toddler tumbling open play, and join a licensed preschool. Come join the fun!

THE CLUB AT TREASURE ISLAND SUMMER CAMP 400 Treasure Island Causeway, Treasure Island 727-367-4511; theclubti.com

For children ages 6-12, sail along Boca Ciega Bay, participate in group tennis lessons taught by Club TI’s Director and elite Pro, enjoy swimming in the biggest pool on Treasure Island and learn how to make delectable dishes from our professional culinary team. Don’t miss Rowdies soccer week, including a field trip to downtown St. Pete stadium and an hour long soccer clinic taught by a Rowdies player, exclusively for Club TI summer campers. Camp is open to members and nonmembers.

THE SCIENCE CENTER 7701 22nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg 727-384-0027;

sciencecenterofpinellas.org/eic/ Make the most out of summer through discovery and fun! Themed camps are available for grades K-8, featuring handson activities in science, technology, engineering, art, and math! Your child can sharpen their academic skills in a fun, supportive learning environment free of stress and pressure. In addition to fun learning experiences, our camps also offer before and after care hours for your convenience (camps go from 9:00 a.m. 4:00 p.m.) and provide free lunch for our campers. Contact us and discover all that our camps have to offer. Camp prices: $180-$240 per camp/per child.

YMCA OF THE SUNCOAST

ymcasuncoast.org/summercamp Count on the best summer ever for your kids. Select one week or the whole summer, indoors and out. On their own or in a group, from archery to arts to canoeing to cannonballs, your kids will have an amazing experience in a safe, inclusive, nurturing environment from Largo to Crystal River. Register online.

PASCO NEW PORT RICHEY RECREATION & AQUATIC CENTER SUMMER CAMP 6630 Van Buren St., New Port Richey 727-841-4560; citynpr.org

This Camp offers eight weeks of fun-filled indoor and outdoor activities, arts & crafts, games, field trips, special events, guest speakers, swimming, movies and various other activities. Camp dates and times are June 5 -July 28, Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Fee: $480 for 8 weeks/$60 per week (per child). Registration begins April 17. Resident Discount: $400 for 8 weeks/$50 per week (per child). Registration begins April 10. Ages 5-13 are welcome.

OTHER LOCATIONS CAMP INVENTION Multiple locations throughout West Central Florida 800-968-4332; campinvention.org

Imaginations get their rocket fuel at Camp Invention! This summer’s all-new curriculum allows children in kindergarten through sixth grade to experience real-world problem solving and creative thinking as they transform a distant exoplanet, take risks as future entrepreneurs, blast rockets and rubber chickens, and wire a circuit to create their own Spy Gadget Alarm Box! Local educators lead a week of hands-on activities that will launch your child’s imagination. Discounts available! Use promo code INNOVATE25 by 3/20 to save $25 on registration!

VALLEY VIEW RANCH EQUESTRIAN CAMP 606 Valley View Ranch Rd., Cloudland, GA 30731 706-832-2231; valleyviewranch.com Horse lovers’ paradise since 1954! Atop Lookout Mountain, for 50 girls, ages 8-17. One to 9 weeks, 600 acres, English, Western, barrels, vaulting and trails. CHA instructors teach beginner to advanced riders. Spend up to 6 hours daily with your OWN camp horse. The Jones family are third-generation horse lovers, camp administrators, and equine educators making girls dreams come true!.

MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 31

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Beauty + Style | What’s in your bag, Heather Barrow?

BUSINESS CARDS

Heather Barrow

You never know who you’re going to meet on the street.

creator of High Risk Hope answers

TRASH, TRINKETS AND LEGOS I would be lying if I omitted the fact that there is at least a handful of kid-produced trash in my bag at any given time.

CLEAN & CLEAR® OIL ABSORBING SHEETS I have oily skin so I use these to remove the oil without caking on powder all day. Its kind of fun to see how much oil it takes off.

I had to empty my purse on the counter to see what was in there. Swimming with the usual suspects (wallet, keys, Tic Tacs) were a few of my favorite things: CHANEL ROUGE DOUBLE INTENSITÈ ULTRA WEAR LIP COLOR

After the color side dries, this stuff does not come off without soap and water. The clear gloss side lets me refresh several times through out the day or night. Do not put it on in a moving car; consider yourself warned.

IPHONE 7 AND EARBUDS

SUNFORGETTABLE® BRUSH-ON SPF 50 SUNSCREEN

I try to be available to both my home and work family so my iPhone serves as my computer, and Earbuds as my conference phone when I am not near one. I have also ditched my bulky Canon and only use the iPhone camera for family pictures.

My best friend introduced me to this life changing zinc oxide powder sunscreen that I use daily on the kids with zero tears. It is also gluten and paraben free. I don’t know what that means but it’s apparently good.

34 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

R&E AVENUE KEY CHAIN I would like to say that I spend every minute of every day encouraged and focused on my dreams. Not true, but my favorite keychain (made by a local designer) helps me get back to that place when I need an internal pep talk. Mine says, “If your dreams don’t scare you they are not big enough.” You can customize yours with your own favorite saying or quote.

This mini journal is amazing for writing down the funny (and not so funny) things your kids do. It is a semi-low commitment, just one line a day, every day for five years. I keep it close so I can write in it before I forget what they said or did. I am three years in and it is so fun to see what my kids were up to the past two years on any given day.

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36 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

Camp Dovewood Celebrates 40 years of Dynamic Christian Camping Dovewood is an Awesome Interdenominational Christian Camp £or Girls in North Florida: Ages 7·14

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MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 37

Beauty + Style | Spring Fashion Trends

Spring Trends To Try Florals and Stripes TIPS FROM MICHELLE OF RUNWAYTRANSLATOR.COM

Spring is nearly upon us and you know what that means: It’s time to clean out the kids’ closets! When you replace the old threads, why not do it with an eye to new spring fashion trends? My current favorite is the trend of mixing stripes and florals. If you’re looking to spice up your personal style I encourage you to give this combination of separates a try.

Michelle is wearing: Route 3 striped crop top, $24, Sweet Southern Chic Boutique Milly floral pencil skirt, $310, Deborah Kent’s Shola Designs platform heels, my closet

MICHELLE BREMER Michelle is a busy full-time working wife and mother of two active children. She owns Runway Translator, a full-service fashion styling firm. She also volunteers in the community with The Junior League of Tampa and Dress for Success Tampa Bay. RunwayTranslator.com 38 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

DON’T BE AFRAID. JUST STAY WITHIN A FEW SIMPLE VISUAL GUIDELINES AND YOU CAN’T GO WRONG. The perfect pairing for a classic black and white striped top is a skirt or pant with a bold and colorful large floral print. Works every time.

Vie Ta Vie silk bomber jacket, my closet (Deborah Kent’s) Scotch & Soda striped pant, $175, Penelope T Boutique Pomme Dor loafers, my closet (Deborah Kent’s)

The prints you choose should live in the same color family and complement one another. Try not to clash; it hurts the eyes. Keep it simple. Downplay the accessories and makeup when mixing prints. The focus is on the fashion. Remember, try to have fun with fashion and don’t be afraid to experiment! Have a wonderful spring shopping season and please don’t forget to support your local boutiques!

Three outfits you’ll love from local boutiques

1 ASTR off-the-shoulder top, $72 Parker shorts, $198 BOTH FROM PENELOPE T BOUTIQUE Photos by Theresa NeSmith Photography

2 Majestic striped shirt, $160 Sassia floral skirt, (my closet)

Giada Forte shirt, $325 Raquel Allegra drawstring pant, $395

BOTH FROM DEBORAH KENT’S

BOTH FROM DEBORAH KENT’S MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 39

Some say that, aerodynamically, it is impossible for bumble bees to fly because their wings are too small for their bodies.

support, resources & information

40 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

Bright Expectations (BE) is dedicated to helping our Florida residents with special needs and unique abilities find the resources, support and inspiration that they, and their families, need to break barriers and achieve their dreams. Start your journey today!

Inside Look with Dr. Rice | Health + Wellness

If you’ve ever been to your local bookstore looking for a good parenting book you might have been overwhelmed by the number of books there are on the topic. So how do you know which ones are the best, which ones apply to your need, or most importantly, which books are written by reputable sources? Here are six books on parenting that I highly recommend: SCREAM FREE PARENTING

by Hal Edward Runkel

Hal Runkel speaks directly to parents about parental anxiety and how this is the biggest obstacle to calm confident parenting. He encourages you to think about your thoughts, feelings, and behavior first before you even deal with your kids. What assumptions are you making about your kids and how are you managing your emotional reactions? And you don’t have to be a screamer to benefit from this one. If you enjoy this one, I’m sneaking in another that follows similarily, “Parenting with Love & Logic” by Foster Cline and Jim Fay. HOW TO TALK SO KIDS WILL LISTEN & LISTEN SO KIDS WILL TALK

by Adele Faber & Elaine Mazlish

I first read this book when I was a day camp counselor in New York in the 1990s and was trying to communicate better with my campers. Using cartoons to illustrate parent-child dialogues, this book gives you a bird’s eye view of what your kids think about what you say. By reading this book, you will truly understand that what you say and don’t say matters and how you say things matters even more.

Parenting Books

TO READ RIGHT NOW

HOW TO RAISE AN ADULT: BREAK FREE OF THE OVERPARENTING TRAP AND PREPARE YOUR KID FOR SUCCESS by Julie Lythcott-Hiams This New York Times best-seller was written by a former dean of Stanford University and speaks to the over involvement of parents in their children’s lives. She talks about how we ended up in a culture that is so focused on kids’ safety and risk prevention, often for reasons that have been misinterpreted or blown out of proportion, that many kids are growing up with increased anxiety, an underdeveloped sense of self-confidence and a lack of independence. This book will give you pause to reconsider many accepted parenting practices from today while encouraging you to raise kids who are prepared to face the world with competence and confidence.

1-2-3 MAGIC: EFFECTIVE DISCIPLINE FOR CHILDREN 2-12 by Thomas W. Phelan, PhD

This is a classic and I think one every parent should have in their toolbox. Why on earth does counting to three even make a difference for kids? Well, kids respond exceptionally well to limits and knowing that they have just ‘til a count of three to either start or stop doing something is ideal. Phalan has also written complementary books for parenting toddlers and teens, and I have used his books as the basis for many parenting presentations over the years. One of the things I love is his explanation for what to do about a variety of pushback techniques that kids employ such as arguing, testing and negotiating.

MINDSET: THE NEW PSYCHOLOGY OF SUCCESS by Carol S. Dweck, Ph.D.

This one is a game changer for (a) success, (b) the way we think about ourselves and our abilities and (c) how we raise and praise our kids. Many people think that it is talent and/or IQ that leads to success. In truth, how we think about or to what we attribute our successes, struggles and failures may be even more important than innate talent, intelligence or skill level. Dweck, a psychologist, and researcher from both Stanford and Columbia talks about “growth” and “fixed” mindsets. In “Mindset,” you’ll learn how best to praise kids (reward effort which is something we can regulate, not intelligence) and help them to adjust their thinking to build motivation and a belief in themselves. WHY DO THEY ACT THIS WAY: A SURVIVAL GUIDE TO THE ADOLESCENT BRAIN FOR YOU AND YOUR TEEN by David Walsh, PhD

After hearing Walsh speak about ten years ago, I became a huge fan of his. With great stories, he interweaves what we know about how kid’s brains work (in understandable language) and how this and other factors leads them to act the ways they do. He is the founder of the internationally renowned National Institute on Media and the Family and released a revised, fully updated version of this book with all updated information in 2014. If you want to understand what makes teens tick, this is the one for you.

Dr. Wendy Rice, Founder 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. Rice Psychology Group uses interviews, diagnostic tests, conversations, humor and even their very own therapy dog to help adult and children understand their troubles in a comfortable environment. MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 41

Health + Wellness | Ask the Doctor

Q&A

with Dr. Jill Hechtman, M.D. FACOG, Medical Director Tampa Obstetrics It is important to point out that whichever pain management method you choose is okay. You are already a hero for being there and delivering a baby! Talk with your doctor or midwife about what you want. Have that discussion. You may initially want to try going natural, but realize that you need more pain control. That is okay! There also may be a point that your doctor recommends a certain pain medication or epidural. If you are having a scheduled cesarean section, the most common anesthesia used is a spinal block. This is when they give medication through your back that numbs you from the waist down. It is similar to an epidural, except it is given in one shot and you cannot give continuous meds through it. If you have been laboring and have an epidural in, they can use the epidural during the C-section and give medication through it.

Q: I’m a few months away from delivering my first baby. What are my options for pain control? There are many different pain management options available for pain management during labor. Some are more effective than others. I like to begin with the option of going natural. There are different methods available such as breathing techniques, hypnosis, massage and the Bradley method that can help you achieve a medicine-free birth process.

Local and regional blocks are another alternative. The most common example is the epidural. By far, this is the best and most effective way to control pain in labor. In the past, people thought that it can slow the labor process down, however that has not been proven. Local blocks include pudendal blocks (these are fairly rare) but they can numb the vaginal area as the baby is being delivered.

Occasionally, in emergency situations, you may have to have general anesthesia. This is when you go to sleep, and have a breathing tube placed. Medications are given so that you are unaware of what is happening and there is no pain. This is generally reserved for special circumstances. The goal during the labor and delivery process is a healthy mother and baby. There really is no need to suffer!

It is important to point out that whichever pain management method you choose is okay. You are already a hero for being there and delivering a baby! IV pain medication is another option. We use medications like Stadol, morphine, Dilauded and Demerol to help with pain control. These medications can make you feel sleepy and sometimes cause nausea and vomiting. Once you are actively changing your cervix, there becomes a point that you can no longer get these medications. That is because they can have effects on the baby.

42 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

An old technology is making its way back here also: nitrous oxide or laughing gas. This is the same as the gas often used in dentists’ offices, but we use it in a different concentration. The mother has total control of when she breathes it in and when she wants it. It takes away some of the pain during the contractions, and it is a great option for women who want to go natural but need a little something. You can also get this at the last minute, unlike IV pain medication. There are no deleterious effects on the mom or baby.

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.

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MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 43

Health + Wellness | Teen Talk

Birds and Bees 101

Baycare teen classes help parents navigate preteens’ puberty and sexuality Parenting often seems like one challenge after another, but there’s one particular milestone that has almost every parent cringing: The Talk. Those adorable toddlers clutching their toys and cardboard books will—despite our best efforts—careen right into puberty one day. Some parents answer questions about bodies and sexuality at any age the child begins to ask; others adroitly change the subject every time a plaintive voice pipes: “Where do babies really come from?” Tampa Bay parents, relax. Help is at hand, and has been for years. For more than a decade, St Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, has hosted a series of “Teen Talk” classes for girls and boys. During these classes, Pediatric Wellness and Safety Expert Deborah Sickmon and other instructors on her team offer practical information that help children understand their changing bodies “We don’t put morals, ethics or religion into it,” she explains. “It’s strictly from a medical perspective about anatomy and physiology.” Sickmon explains that the class (separated by gender) is medically oriented and divided into two parts. The first part is specific to the gender attending that session and explains the physical and emotional changes that a child can expect to experience during puberty as well as an explanation of the anatomy and physiology of their gender-specific reproductive

The environment is so relaxed and comfortable in her classes that often, even parents who had planned on staying just for the first part end up returning for all of it. - Deborah Sickmon

44 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

system. Girls might get additional practical advice about subjects such as how to handle menstruation at school or during a sleepover, while the boys’ sessions might address issues such as spontaneous erections or nocturnal emissions. After a break the child and parent can opt to return for the second part of the session, which will talk about the opposite gender’s puberty process, reproductive system and an explanation of conception. If you feel like your child is too young, you can skip that part and attend it at a later date for $10. Both boys and girls sessions end with a video and talk about abstinence, and everyone gets a book to take home.

whether their child’s body is changing, and if they are expressing curiosity and asking questions. Each child is different. Some girls begin menstruation at age 9 and others at age 16. As a rule of thumb, Sickmon feels that by the time a child enters sixth grade, they should have a basic idea of how human reproduction works. If they don’t—someone will be sure to tell them, and that source (other kids or the Internet) is probably not going to be as accurate as the parent.

For parents who wonder what age is right for their kids to be exposed to this information, Sickmon suggests observing

Sickmon says that the environment is so relaxed and comfortable in her classes that often, even parents who had planned

“Just as we teach our kids to brush their teeth and how to have good health habits, this is the next phase of getting a child safely through,” she says.

relationships, impact of media and the long-term effects of sexual activity, and also get information about sexually transmitted diseases. Still squeamish? Sickmon tells parents to think about it this way. When your child has a world history test coming up, you help them prepare with all the facts and knowledge they may need to ace that test. When it comes to matters of human sexuality, giving your child the correct answers from the get-go will allow them to make the right choices when the time comes, something they cannot do unless empowered with the right information.

AT A GLANCE: TEEN TALK FOR GIRLS ™

This 4-hour class provides young girls (ages 9-13) and their caregiver a relaxed environment to learn about the physical and emotional changes of puberty, including an explanation of the menstrual cycle, how the female reproductive system works and ways to maintain a healthy body. The optional second half of the session contains an overview of the male’s changes during puberty and their reproductive system. Class ends with a video of students discussing the benefits of abstinence. TEEN TALK FOR BOYS™

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.

This 2 1/2-hour class provides young boys (ages 10–13) and their caregiver a relaxed environment to learn about the physical and emotional changes of puberty, including an explanation of how the male reproductive system works and ways to maintain a healthy body. The optional second half of the session contains an overview of the female’s changes during puberty and their reproductive system. Class ends with a video of students discussing the benefits of abstinence.

WHERE: St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital,

4321 N. MacDill Ave., Tampa

UPCOMING DATES : For boys, 2-4:30 p.m. April 30 and 6-8:30 p.m. June 16; For Girls, 1-5 p.m. March 5 and 1-5 p.m. May 7. HOW MUCH: The cost is $35 per child/adult pair for the class

and a book on puberty to take home. The second half of each class is optional and can be completed at a later time.

on staying just for the first part end up returning for all of it. They thank her and tell her that it opens up a conversation with their children that otherwise may have stayed shut. Some kids come with a group of friends, which allows them to create a support system with each other and each other’s parents throughout their adolescence. Although generally, mothers come with daughters and fathers with sons, Sickmon says there is no rule about who accompanies the child other than it be their caregiver.

REGISTER AT: BayCareEvents.org or (813) 443-3074. Private classes for which content can be customized are available upon request also and classes can come to you. Prices vary.

For more information: (813) 615-0589

Sickmon also teaches a class for older teens called Teen Talk 2 on an as-needed basis. Parent don’t sit in on this one, and teens can ask candid questions and have myths debunked. They learn about MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 45

46 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

Area Beaches | Family Fun

TAMPA BAY’S BEST BEACHES

FOR FAMILIES

I’m not Dr. Beach (who ranks best beaches). However, I do know whether the sand is great for my kids to play in and if the water is clear enough for them to jump into. As a traveling mommy, I’ve taken my little ones to some amazing beaches, from the Caribbean to the South of France to the Greek Islands. And yet, my kids love going to the beaches right here in Tampa Bay which are ranked among the best in the world. Some local favorites are well-known. You’ve probably already been to Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach a million times, so I’ve come up with some spots that aren’t as popular. In fact, you must take a public ferry or private boat to get to some of these out-of-the-way destinations. That may sound like work, but these beach getaways will give parents a break from the traffic and well known crowded beaches this spring break.

EGMONT KEY STATE PARK

The beaches here are pristine because it’s primarily a wildlife refuge. You can collect shells on secluded beaches or snorkel in the clear blue water. When you’re done with the beach, check out the lighthouse that’s been there since 1858. Egmont Key is rich in history, and reading about it with the kids before visiting will give them a history lesson they can’t get in the classroom. When exploring the island’s trails, you’ll also see gopher tortoises and other wildlife. Egmont Key is located at the mouth of Tampa Bay, southwest of Fort De Soto Beach. You can only get there by ferry or private boat. Both the Egmont Key ferry and the Dolphin Snorkeling Cruise depart from Fort De Soto Park. Keep in mind this is an island and there are no stores. So make sure to pack the kids bottled water, food, sunscreen and bug repellent. There are picnic tables to enjoy your lunch with the kiddos. So take a day this spring break to enjoy one of the best beaches you’ll find in Tampa Bay and get some true quality time with the kids.

CALADESI ISLAND STATE PARK

Caladesi’s white sand beaches were ranked America’s Best Beach in 2008. And even though it’s close to Honeymoon Island, Caladesi has a completely different feel to it. This is a great getaway for the kids and parents because it feels like you’re miles away from the hustle and bustle of the city, but unlike Shell Key, this spot has a snack bar with food and adult beverages for parents. Not only can the kids enjoy the beautiful sand and swim in the gulf water, but older kids can kayak through amazing mangrove trails. The only way you can get there is by boat or kayak from Honeymoon Island. A Ferry Service also departs from Honeymoon Island State Park that is free for children 5 and younger are free.

SHELL KEY

Yes, the name gives it away. Your kids will find some amazing shells on this barrier island located in the mouth of Tampa Bay. My daughter found shells that I’ve never seen on any other local beach. The water is beautiful here, there are shallow areas for the kids to swim, and the sand is great for sandcastles. Sand dollars and starfish abound, but remember, if they are still alive, it’s against the law to take them. The preserve is also an important sanctuary for nesting and migrating birds so kids can bird watch. Dolphins like to play here too so keep an eye out for sightings. The best parenting advice for this beach getaway is to make sure to pack everything you need because this is truly an island getaway and there are no facilities. That means if you don’t have it you can’t buy it, so don’t forget snacks and food as well as your suntan lotion and beach gear

because the shuttle doesn’t come back for two hours. On the plus side, this also means no big crowds or parties going on next to you while you’re trying to enjoy a beautiful day at the beach with your kids. The Shell Key Shuttle leaves Merry Pier at Pass-a-Grille on Southern St. Pete Beach. Check online for times and fees.

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.”

MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 47

Family Fun | Gasparilla Music Festival

Kids' Fest at Gasparilla Music Festival 5 REASONS IT’S THE PERFECT FAMILY DAY OUT

THERE’S MUSIC AND MORE.

Beyond the exciting concert lineup, GMF boasts free Sunday admission to the Glazer Children’s Museum, hula-hooping, dance experiences, face-painting and unique experiences like the Interactive Instrument Petting Zoo and Interactive Kids Zone.

If you associate the words “kids” and “concerts” with furry puppets and high-pitched auditory torture, get ready to rethink everything thanks to the 2017 Gasparilla Music Festival. Here are just a few reasons why attending Kids Fest at GMF is the perfect way to enjoy music, food and fun for the whole family all weekend long.

YOU CAN COME BACK WITHOUT THEM.

Your ticket is good for same day re-entry, so once your brood has had their fun, you can leave them home with a sitter and come back for some grownup time off.

IT’S NOT YOUR AVERAGE KID’S ENTERTAINMENT.

From 2015 Grammy nominee Secret Agent Skidoo, to silly Bears and Lions, the weekend is packed with a variety of musical acts that are sure to get every toddler’s toe tapping.

IT’S GOOD FOR THEM!

Exposing kids to music boosts children’s brain power and helps them develop patience and social and math skills. Most importantly, kids love music because it’s fun.

IT’S FREE AND THERE’S FOOD.

For ticket information and the full lineup, visit: GASPARILLAMUSIC.COM 48 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

Kids 12 and under get to enjoy the GMF Kids Fest jam-packed schedule of events and activities at absolutely no charge. And with 20 tasty vendors on hand to please even the pickiest little peanut, you can take meal-planning and snack-doling off your plate. CAROLINE FOSS Caroline Foss is a Type-A writer with a private pilot’s license and a background in advertising and branding. She lives in Tampa with her firefighter husband and two (2-and-under) boys, and she can often be found panicking in a cold sweat at the playground. Drive-throughs are her love language.

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Book Early and Save 10% (Offer ends April 17th)

A Different Species of Summer Camp Camp is a time to make new friends. Try new things. Come face-to-face with a giraffe and challenge a coaster. We offer camps for animal lovers, coaster enthusiasts, future veterinarians and everything in between. Day Camp: K-12th • Resident Camp: 5th-College Resident Camps run June 10th through August 17 th Day Camps run June 5 th through August 4th

buschgardens.com/camps • 1-813-884-4FUN 50 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

River O’ Green | Family Fun

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day Weekend

with Tampa’s Mayor Bob Buckhorn

The Mayor’s River O’Green Fest THE FUN HAPPENS AT CURTIS HIXON WATERFRONT PARK IN DOWNTOWN TAMPA, 600 N. ASHLEY DRIVE ON SATURDAY, MARCH 18 FROM 11 A.M. – 4 P.M. Get a front row seat at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park to watch the Hillsborough River transform into the most vibrant shade of green in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day! This is the perfect FREE family and pet-friendly event, featuring live music, Irish-inspired food from local restaurants and activities designed with kids in mind.

Bring three nonperishable food items to benefit the Salvation Army and support local families in need, and receive a free green “St. Patrick’s Army” shirt while supplies last!

THE KIDS CRAFT AND ENTERTAINMENT AREA will include Tampa Parks and Recreation, Tampa Fire Rescue, the Tampa Bay Lightning, Florida Aquarium, Busch Gardens, MOSI, McDonalds and more.

MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 51

What’s Happening | Around Town

Around Town

PATEL CONSERVATORY GASPARILLA PARADE

The cast of the Patel Conservatory's 'The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley Jr." march in the Children's Gasparilla Parade. FLORIDA HOSPITAL ICE RIBBON CUTTING. Com-

munity dignitaries celebrated Florida Hospital Center Ice’s grand opening with a “puck drop” ceremony on Jan. 25.

EARLY LEARNING ASSOCIATION OF CHAIRS Recep-

tion hosted by the Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County (ELCHC).

ADMIRAL FARRAGUT MCDONALD'S FIELD TRIP Admiral Farragut Kindergarten and first grade

students recently went on a field trip to a local McDonald's to learn about "Goods and Services" as part of their Social Studies class. They even got to help serve customers and hang out with Ronald McDonald.

SHORECREST STEAM-FEST The 2nd Annual St.

Pete STEAMfest was held on Saturday, Feb. 4 at Shorecrest Preparatory School. More than 600 people attended the free, family-friendly festival celebrating all things creative, inventive and fun! Guests enjoyed robotics demonstrations, hands-on art and engineering activities and more. Exhibitors included Busch Gardens, Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Great Explorations, Mathnasium, the Tampa Bay Rowdies and more! Plans are already underway for STEAMfest 2018! 52 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY STEM FAIR

More than 2,000 students participated in the annual Hillsborough Regional STEM Fair at the Tampa Convention Center on Feb. 14, contributing 1,711 projects!

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MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 53

What’s Happening | The Local Scoop

NEWS FROM Around the Bay PINELLAS FAMILIES HAVE FUN WITH MATH

Nearly 200 students and family members recently met up for a Monday night of math games at Sandy Lane Elementary, part of ST Family Math Night held in the Clearwater school’s cafeteria. Sandy Lane’s math night was one of five held at Bay area elementary schools, including Campbell Park, Skyview, Gulfport and Leila G. Davis Elementary. Family Math Nights are being provided free to the schools through the district’s partnership with MIND Research Institute, the parent company to ST Math. In addition to the games, MIND Research Institute provided pizza and salad and each child received a book of games to take home. Events have been designed to create a fun game environment in an attempt to remove students’ fear of mathematics.

DFAC SEEKS ‘TRASHY TREASURES’ FOR SALE

The Dunedin Fine Art Center is currently accepting gently used artwork and art related supplies for its Annual Trashy Treasures Art Sale being held 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, March 11. Donations may be dropped off at the Center located at 1143 Michigan Blvd. in Dunedin through March 3 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday; and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. A Preview Party featuring the finest of this season’s trashy treasures will be held at 6 p.m. Friday, March 10 with $10 admission. For more information, call Linda Hamilton at 727-2983322, ext. 236 or email her at linda@dfac.org.

PINELLAS HONORS TOPS IN EDUCATION The Pinellas Education Foundation and Pinellas County Schools announced the 2017 Outstanding Educator of

the Year at its Evening of Excellence held Tuesday, Jan. 31 at Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg. Vanessa Ko is this year’s winner for Outstanding Educator. A limo picked Ko up at home and delivered her to Palm Harbor Middle School where she teaches mathematics, and where students and staff were on hand to congratulate her. Ko began her teaching career in Pinellas at the school 13 years ago. Ko will receive cash and prizes valued at $10,000 including a vacation for two and recognition during Education Night with the Rays in the spring. Winner of the Outstanding Educator Fan Favorite Award, voted on by students, parents and the community, is Karen Cangemi, Reading and Literature Coach at High Point Elementary School in Clearwater.

STRAZ CENTER BRINGS ‘IT GETS BETTER’ TO THE STAGE

When several young people took their lives after being bullied in school, syndicated columnist and author Dan Savage and his partner Terry Miller created a YouTube video to give hope to LGBTQ teens. The video went viral and incited a following that became the “It Gets Better” movement culminating in the production of “It Gets Better” being presented Friday, March 24 at 7:30 p.m. at the Straz Center in Tampa. The work explores what “better” means for LGBTQ youth through stories, songs and multimedia in response to the growing climate of bullying and teen violence. A small, dedicated ensemble from The Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles, in collaboration with the It Gets Better Project™ and Speak Theater Arts, brings this to the stage. Regularly priced tickets are $25-$45 and may be purchased online at strazcenter.org.

54 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

CRISIS CENTER RECOGNIZED BY STATE CABINET

BRYAN GLAZER FAMILY JCC SWIM LESSONS

Group and private swim lessons are now available at the beautiful Mezrah Family Aquatic Center at the new Bryan Glazer Family JCC for children as young as 6 weeks old to adults of all ages and swim capabilities. Lessons are provided by certified swim instructors who easily work with your child’s temperament and offer flexible schedules to best fit your family’s needs. You can also register your child to participate in the Swim Club where they can really perfect their technique and racing skills in the water. Practice is held five days a week, so there is plenty of flexibility no matter what your family’s schedule entails. Learn more by visitingbryanglazerfamilyjcc.com or call 813-575-5900. You can also email your questions to aquatics@BGFJCC.com.

The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay was recognized by Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi at a recent Florida cabinet meeting. The nonprofit was named “Community Advocate of the Year” for its work with survivors of human trafficking and for its outreach and education efforts. The award was presented at the Jan. 24 meeting in observance of Human Trafficking Awareness Month. The Crisis Center is the certified rape crisis center for Hillsborough County that provides forensic medical exams and advocacy services for survivors, as well as trauma counseling services and crisis call center support 24 hours a day through its 2-1-1 contact center. The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay also collaborated with the Florida Coalition Against Human Trafficking and the Dunn&Co. advertising agency to launch a human trafficking awareness campaign targeting youth called “Drop An F-Bomb.” droppingfbombs.com

Choose from a variety of Summer AquaCamps that take fun and learning to all new depths for kids from 3 to 18 years old. Spots are filling up fast, so enroll today. There are discounts for members and for booking multiple camps. For more details, visit flaquarium.org or call 813-273-4015.

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Come Out Of Your Shell and

Come get face-to-face with all your favorite creatures, ranging from adorable sea turtles to huge sand tiger sharks and playful otters. Touch spectacular stingrays. Even meet ring-tailed lemurs at Journey to Madagascar. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something for everyone, including a Wild Dolphin Cruise* where you can view bottlenose dolphins. *Weather permitting. Additional fees required.

flaquarium.org | 813.273.4000

MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 55

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Top Picks | What’s Happening

2017 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL March 2-12 in Plant City

LOWRY PARK ZOO DINOS ALIVE

This 11-day long festival in Plant City features live music by nationally recognized favorites, rides, family-friendly activities and, of course, strawberries prepared in every way you can imagine! Regular admission tickets for adults and teens who are 13 and older are $10, Children ages 6-12 are $5 and children ages 5 and younger are FREE with paid adult admission. flstrawberryfestival.com

Now through August

Step back in time to the Jurassic and Cretaceous Eras at this new family-friendly 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. Kids can also become junior paleontologists and dig for fossils and gems! Price is included with Annual Zoo Membership, “Pay for a Day” ticket and single day admission. Some blackout dates apply. lowryparkzoo.com

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

GASPARILLA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL March 5, Family Fun Day, 10 a.m.-3

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. plantmuseum.com

p.m. at Centennial Park: Enjoy a day of kids’

activities, games and prizes! Lowry Park Zoo will bring a few animals. Mr. Tommy will perform and the kids can enjoy a screening of Zootopia! The Gasparilla International Film Festival runs from March 2-9. Learn more: gasparillafilm.com

GASPARILLA MUSIC FESTIVAL’S KIDS FEST

March 11 & 12 at Noon

Get ready to dance! The kids will love spending the afternoon with you while they experience top quality children’s entertainment and live performances, interactive kids zone and even an instrument petting zoo! Kids 12 and younger are FREE. The kids can even take advantage of FREE admission to Glazer Children’s Museum on Sunday, March 13! See page 48 for more details. gasparillamusic.com

TAMPA MAYOR'S RIVER O’ GREEN FEST March 18 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park

Be there to watch as the Hillsborough River changes into the most brilliant shade of green in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. The kids can take part in FREE activities and crafts at the Kids Tent which will include family fun from Busch Gardens, the Florida Aquarium, MOSI and more! See page 51 for more details. tampagov.net

HILLSBOROUGH DAY OF PLAY

March 12 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Al Lopez Park in Tampa

Don’t miss Hillsborough County’s biggest play date of the year hosted by the Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County! This FREE event includes nothing but interactive play experiences from area businesses and organizations! The Day of Play will also feature live music, food trucks, prizes and outdoor games. elchc.org MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 59

What’s Happening | March Calendar DR. SEUSS’S BIRTHDAY March 2

Enjoy all things Seuss as part of a special birthday celebration at Glazer Children’s Museum in downtown Tampa. Partake in story times, Ooblek and Green Eggs and Ham demonstrations. glazermuseum.org 4-12

FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL March 2-12, various times

EVENTS & FESTIVALS IHOP MIRACLE BALLOON CAMPAIGN Through March 7

Visit participating IHOPs in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco and show your support for Tampa Bay's own Children's Miracle Network facility, Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital. Customers can buy a Miracle Balloon for $1 or $5 each with all donations to help local sick and injured kids get the care they need. ihop.com Everyone

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

Stroll through a charming 16th century village and experience the food, music and activities of the Middle Ages at this festival held outside Tampa's MOSI. Browse stalls and watch entertainment across a dozen stages. Entry is $20.95 adults and $12.95 children ages 5-12. Free parking. bayarearenfest.com Everyone

SEVEN SEAS FOOD FESTIVAL Through May 13, various times

Sample a variety of international, local and seasonal craft brews and unique flavors at this new food festival at Sea World Orlando. For event details and tickets, visit seaworldorlando.com. Moms, Dads

DINOS ALIVE! Open through August

Be transported in time as you journey back through the Jurassic and Cretaceous Eras at this new experience at Lowry Park Zoo in Tampa. Meet up with 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

Jump into March Madness at MOSI and learn how to create a secret science lab. Participants of all ages can discover their inner scientist in the Mad Maker Science Lab. Idea Zone activities are included with admission. mosi.org Everyone

CHILDREN’S GALA PIGGY BANK PICK UP March 1 – April 18, various times

Help MOSI send 300 kids to science camp one coin at a time by picking up a piggy bank at the Tampa museum. Kids can raise funds by collecting change to make change happen. mosi.org 4 & Older

EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FLOWER & GARDEN FESTIVAL March 1 – May 29, various times Experience spring through brilliant blooms, live entertainment, flavorful dishes, interactive playgrounds and more as part of this annual springtime celebration at EPCOT in Orlando. This year, guests can check out outdoor kitchens, more than 70 Disney-themed topiaries, vibrant gardens, play areas, flower towers, exhibits, how-to-demos and outdoor concerts. disneyworld.disney.go.com/destinations/epcot/ Everyone

MOVING THROUGH THE AIR

March 2, 2-4 p.m. Toss, launch and send projectiles through the sky to learn about the forces working on airborne objects as part of this homeschool program at MOSI in Tampa. Cost is $16 members and $21 general admission. mosi.org 5 & Older 60 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

Pack up the kids and head to Plant City for this longtime Bay area tradition offering visitors fun Midway rides, games, shows, exhibits and access to great live music through its popular concert series. Sample scrumptious strawberry-themed dishes and visit the neighborhood village to check out this year’s ribbon winners. Admission is $10 (ages 13 and older); $5 for kids ages 6-12; and free for ages 5 and younger. flstrawberryfestival.com Everyone

RHYME TIME WITH WEDU March 3, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Celebrate early literacy with Great Explorations in St. Petersburg with fun rhyming crafts and activities, scheduled story times and a surprise character appearance. Kids will enjoy a rhyming ring toss game, rhythm and rhyme drum circle, a whimsical magnet fishing game of One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish and more. Meet up at 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. for special storytime sessions with special guest characters from WEDU. All activities included with admission/membership. greatex.org 4-12

BUSCH GARDENS TAMPA BAY FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL March 4 – April 30, various times

Savor culinary delights and sample an expanded selection of wines, craft brews and cocktails from around the world at Busch Gardens in Tampa. Festival concerts with 7 p.m. shows in March feature Daughtry, Andy Grammer, Goo Goo Dolls and Kool and the Gang, among others. Festival included with admission with food and beverage purchased separately. buschgardenstampa.com Moms, Dads

MINECRAFT MANIA

March 4, 11, 18 and 25, 1-3 p.m. Learn or level 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

CELEBRATING EVERYBODY March 5, 9 a.m.

Lace up the sneakers and come out for this walk presented by The Alliance for Eating Disorders Awareness and iaedp Tampa Bay at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. Guest speaker and founder of Southern Smash, McCall Dempsey, will share her own story of being an eating disorder survivor. Register at allianceforeatingdisorders.com. Everyone

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

Members can head 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

VALSPAR CHAMPIONSHIP March 6-12, various times

Catch PGA Tour golf live at Innisbrook Golf Resort in Palm Harbor. This year's event includes a Championship Pro Am on Wednesday and a live concert by Toby Keith on Saturday. For tickets and schedule information, visit valsparchampionship.com. 8 & Older

NATIONAL PANCAKE DAY FUNDRAISER March 7, 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Stop by your participating IHOP location to dine in and get one free short stack of buttermilk pancakes. Guests are encouraged to leave behind a voluntary donation to benefit Children's Miracle

Network Hospitals and other local charities. ihoppancakeday.com Everyone

SCULPTING AND 3D March 7, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

See visions of 3D art from around the world as part of this event at Tampa’s MOSI. Kids can create a mobile from recycled materials and try their hand at sculpting. Event runs from 10 a.m. to noon for ages 5-7 and from 2 - 4 p.m. for ages 8 and older. Cost is $16 members and $21 general admission. mosi.org 5 & Older

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

Take advantage of 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

HOME SCHOOL DAYS: TALENT SHOW March 8, 2-5 p.m.

Homeschool families can visit Glazer Children’s Museum as part of this interactive event to develop and advance students’ social skills. This month, the Museum features its first Talent Showcase spotlighting young performers. Admission is $6. glazermuseum.org Everyone

2017 HELEN GORDON DAVIS WAVES OF CHANGE WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP AWARD March 10, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Attend this luncheon at Hilton Tampa Downtown in support of The Helen Gordon Davis Centre for Women. The event recognizes great women leaders, including this year’s recipient of the organization’s top honor, Sheila Johnson, as well as Waves Award recipient Sandy Freedman. thecentre.org Moms, Dads

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT March 10, 6-10 p.m.

Leave the kids in the hands of trusted team members 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 G-rated movies. Pizza, snacks and juice are included. Advance registration is required. Cost is $25 members; $35 non-members. Preregistration is required. greatex. org 4-10

SKYWATCH March 11, 7-9:30 p.m.

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

FOSSILFEST March 11-12, various times

Learn about Florida’s prehistoric past at this show featuring fossils, artifacts, gems, minerals and shells on display at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa. Weekend offers workshops, exhibits, kids games, raffles and more. For a small fee, kids can explore a Fossil Mine to uncover prehistoric fossils donated by club members. Admission is $8 adults and free to kids ages 12 and younger. tampabayfossilclub.com Everyone

DAY OUT WITH THOMAS: THE FRIENDSHIP TOUR 2017 March 11-12 and 17-19, various times

Join Thomas the Tank Engine as part of this special train ride event through Florida Railroad Museum in Parrish. Little engineers can enjoy a day of friendship-inspired activities including photo ops, crafts and passport stamps collected throughout the day to build a friendship bracelet. Gates open 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. with train rides every hour starting at 9 a.m. Tickets are $19-$23 and can be purchased at ticketweb. com/dowt. For more information, go to frrm.org 2 & Older

DAY OF PLAY March 12, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Bring out the family to Al Lopez Park for a FREE, fun day of play and learn how the simple act of playing can help kids grow and learn as part of this event

led by the Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County. Families with young children will enjoy a day of live entertainment, prize drawings and outdoor games. elchc.org Everyone

SPRING BREAK WORKSHOPS March 13-17, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Book the kids for Spring Break at the Glazer Children’s Museum in Tampa to take part in fun activities, arts and crafts centered on a theme. This spring’s workshop themes are Around the World (for ages 5-6) and Magical Animals and How to Care for Them (ages 7-10). Cost is $45 per day or $225 per week with a 15 percent discount for premium and super premium members, with lunch option also available. glazermuseum.org 5-10

SUPERHERO ACADEMY SPRING BREAK CAMP March 13-17, 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Sign up your Pinellas students for camp at Great Explorations in St. Pete during spring break. Kids can explore superheroes and their powers through engaging science, art and movement activities. Pricing is $35 per day for members or $40 per day for non-members. Early drop-off and late pick-up options are available. greatex.org 4-8

MATH + ARTS + BOTS STUDIO March 13-17, various times

Explore this new unique studio at Glazer Children’s Museum open over Spring Break during select times. See the latest robots, circuity and math and building toys that stretch the imagination. Introduce the kids to robots who dance and watch them draw or create their own robots to take home. glazermuseum.org 5-12

PI DAY March 14

Celebrate Albert Einstein’s birthday and math as part of National Pi Day as the Glazer Children’s Museum hosts its first annual shaving cream pie-throwing party at Curtis Hixon Park. Families will get messy at the party, help the Museum Math Squad solve problems and make colorful art with math. Pre-registration is required. glazermuseum. org 5-12

BRAIN CANDY LIVE! March 15, 7:30 p.m.

Get ready for an outrageous evening of entertainment from two amazing minds and colorful personalities, Adam Savage, former co-host of Mythbusters, and Michael Stevens, creator of Vsauce, at The Mahaffey in St. Pete. The two bring along more than three tons of crazy toys, incredible tools and mind-blowing demonstrations. Tickets are $29.50$59.50. themahaffey.com 10 & Older

WALK MS: TAMPA 2017 March 18, 8 a.m.

Show your support for ending multiple sclerosis by teaming up with friends, family and co-workers to participate in this annual walk at Al Lopez Park. Register at 8 a.m. and walk at 9 a.m. For more information and to register, go to nationalmssociety.org and click on ‘in your area’ to access event listings in the Tampa Bay area. Everyone

Bring the kids when Pinellas schools are out to take part in a camp at Great Explorations that helps kids explore what life is like in the desert. Get up close and personal with desert animals from the Critter Cave, learn about plants that thrive in the desert, and explore sand. Cost is $35 per day for members and $40 per day for non-members with before and after care options available. greatex.org 4-8

WOMEN OF DISTINCTION March 21, noon

Go to this annual benefit event for the Girl Scouts of West Central Florida at Bryan Glazer Family JCC in Tampa. Luncheon honors local women serving as positive role models and leaders for today's young girls. This year's keynote speaker is Gold Medal Olympic Gymnast Mary Lou Retton. Tickets are $75. gswcf.org Moms, Dads

EVENING TIDE TALKS March 22, 5:45 p.m.

Attend this free lecture series offered through The Florida Aquarium in Tampa. Series features renowned scientists, photographers and researchers. Enjoy a complimentary 5:45 p.m. reception in the Vinik Room. Stay for the 6:15 p.m. featured speaker. This month’s guest is Dr. Kathy Heym, Director of Animal Health at The Florida Aquarium. Register at flaquarium.org. 12 & Older

#GCMPARENTS SERIES March 23, 7-8 p.m.

Network and learn from top experts about various parenting topics as part of this recently added series offered through Glazer Children’s Museum in Tampa. This month’s theme is Sleep Tight. Meet author and infant sleep specialist Shari Mezrah who will share her insights and expertise on infant sleeping and answer questions. Tickets are $12 per person or $20 per couple for premium and super premium members and $15 per person or $25 per couple for general admission. glazermuseum.org Moms, Dads

SCHWARZKOPF MEMORIAL SPORTING CLAYS CLASSIC March 25, 7 a.m.

Get ready for a fun morning at this popular fundraiser hosted by Tampa Bay Sporting Clays in Land O' Lakes and benefiting The Children's Home. Participants enjoy a tasty breakfast, complimentary ammunition, a T-shirt, and full round of clays, followed by lunch and an awards ceremony. Registration is 7 a.m. childrenshome.org Moms, Dads

SPRING SCIENCE March 25, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

SCIENCE + BEER March 18, 6-9 p.m.

GIRLS SCOUTS WORKSHOP: LIFE IN YBOR CITY March 25, 10 a.m. - noon

LIFE IN THE DESERT SCHOOL’S OUT CAMP March 20, 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Support your favorite four-legged friends as part of this annual Humane Society of Tampa Bay fundraiser at Curtis Hixon Park in downtown Tampa. Event includes a one-mile walk, live music, food trucks, vendors, pet costume contests, a dog pop-up park and a doggy fun zone. barkintheparktampa.com Everyone

NEW YORK YANKEES LUNCHEON March 28, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Reserve your seat at this popular annual meet-up of Yankees fans, players and supporters of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay hosted by the Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel & Marina. Event includes autograph session, speakers and seated lunch. For ticket information, visit bgctampa.org Moms & Dads

A-MAZING MAGNETS March 28 and 30, 2-3:30 p.m.

Preschoolers can have fun exploring the different strengths of magnets, make their own compass and create a magnetic maze at MOSI. Pre-registration is required. Cost is $12 museum members and $16 general admission. mosi.org 3-4

ELECTRICALLY MAGNETIC! March 28 and 30, 2-4 p.m.

Homeschooled students will learn about electricity and magnetism and how they are related at MOSI. Kids get to use both together to explore how technology has been developed and experiment with alternate sources of energy. Pre-registration is required. Cost is $16 members and $21 general admission. mosi.org 5 & Older

Enter the dazzling world of Disney magic and rev up for non-stop fun with four of your favorite Disney stories at Amalie Arena in Tampa. Catch up with Ariel and The Little Mermaid’s undersea kingdom; your favorite toys Buzz, Woody, Jessie and the gang; Lightning McQueen and the crew of Disney’s Cars; and sisters Anna and Elsa and their Frozen pals. Tickets start at $18. amaliearena.com 4 & Older

Keep your little ones' good health in check and take part in this special program at Great Explorations in collaboration with Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital. The day's theme will integrate art, science and math activities designed with good health in mind. Kids can design fruit and veggie puppets, create their own science stress ball and take part in fitness movement games and activities. greatex.org 4-9

Parents are invited to join MOSI’s Space Programs Director Antonio Paris for a cold pint of beer as he discusses Planet Nine, a hypothetical large planet in the far outer solar system. Tickets are $10 members and $15 non-members. To reserve a seat, call 813-9876000. mosi.org Moms, Dads

BARK IN THE PARK TAMPA March 25, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

DISNEY ON ICE PRESENTS WORLDS OF ENCHANTMENT March 24-26, various times

Explore spring through interactive crafts, activities and games at Great Explorations in St. Pete. Make spring flowers bloom with a unique rain painting style, design origami kites, learn about clouds and decorate them, and more. At 10:30 a.m., participants will use their puppets, musical instruments and dancing scarves to put on an interactive song and poem show. At 1:30 p.m., the Museum’s STEAM team will conduct a Weird Weather Science Demo. All activities included with admission/membership. greatex.org 4-9

HAPPY, HEALTHY KIDS WITH JHACH March 18, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

required at gswcf.org. 8 & Older

Discover what life was like in turn-of-the-century Ybor City with hands-on investigation, fun crafts and a visit to the Tampa Bay History Center for this fun event coordinated by the Girl Scouts of West Central Florida in collaboration with the museum. Girl Scouts can earn the Playing the Past badge. Cost is $12 scouts and $6 adults. Pre-registration is

SPECIAL NEEDS

Sponsored by Early Autism Project EAPTampa.com FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP March 7, 6:30-7:30 a.m.

Meet up with other parents of children with special needs at this monthly support group hosted by Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital Child Development and Rehabilitation Center in St. Petersburg. RSVP at 727-767-2885. Moms, Dads

AUTISM SUPPORT GROUP March 9 and 23, 7-8 p.m.

Take part in a group designed for parents and caregivers of loved ones with autism that meets up at Medical Center of Trinity. Register online at medicalcentertrinity.com or call 727-834-5630. Walk-ins are also welcome. Moms, Dads

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

Explore exhibit rooms at Great Explorations Children's Museum in St. Pete with other families of children with special needs while venue is closed to the public. Admission is $5 per person or free for members. This month’s featured partner is Audra St. John Walsh, Ph.D., NCSP, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Nationally Certified School Psychologist and Infant and Toddler Developmental Specialist. greatex.org 6 & Older MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 61

What’s Happening | March Calendar

SENSORY-FRIENDLY FILMS AT COBB THEATERS March 18, 10 a.m.

Catch film screenings that provide viewers with varying abilities a chance to enjoy a family-friendly film in a safe, sensory-sensitive environment at area Cobb Theaters. This month’s film is “Beauty and the Beast,” rated PG, running time of 123 minutes. For participating theaters, go to cobbtheaters.com Everyone

8TH ANNUAL CYCLING FOR AUTISM March 25, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Follow a bike trail for a good cause at this annual cycling event coordinated by the Tampa Interbay Rotary and being held this year along the Courtney Campbell Causeway Bike Trail, starting and ending at Whiskey Joe’s. Rides will be 6-, 12-, 20- and 40mile and available for all ages and fitness levels to participate. interbayrotary.org Everyone

SUNSHINE SUNDAY March 26, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Visit Glazer Children’s Museum and experience the museum with lights and sounds lowered and special programming available for those with special needs to enjoy the exhibits exclusively. Free for members and $5 nonmembers. glazermuseum.org Everyone

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

Let your imagination run free as art facilitators introduce exhibition-specific methods of art-making filled with fun and creativity at Tampa Museum of Art Saturday mornings at the museum’s Golding Scher Classroom. No registration is required for this free drop-in program offering kids and families a chance to share a creative moment with different art activities weekly. tampamuseum.org Everyone

DILLMAN’S FESTIVAL OF ARTISTS March 14, 1-3 p.m.

See nationally known painters demonstrate their techniques during this fun art event hosted by the Dunedin Fine Art Center. Featured artists include Hannah Ineson (watercolor) and Caroline Jasper (plein air painting). Afternoon includes silent auction, door prizes and refreshments. Free admission but registration is recommended. dfac.org/tickets Moms, Dads

BLOOM N CHALK FEST CHALK ART FESTIVAL March 18-19, various times

Watch as artists from around the world draw on the streets and sidewalks of downtown Safety Harbor with chalk. Vote for your favorite drawing for the “People’s Choice Award” and enjoy live entertainment. Free admission. bloomnchalkfest.com Everyone

can play games, win prizes and take part in casting calls and acting opportunities. For more information about this and other activities during this year’s Gasparilla International Film Festival which runs March 2-9, go to gasparillafilmfestival.com Everyone

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Opens March 17

Belle and the beastly prince return to the big screen, this time as Disney’s latest live action musical fantasy. Film stars Emma Watson, Luke Evans, Dan Stevens, Ewan McGregor and Josh Gad. Film is rated PG; running time, 123 minutes. 8 & Older

POWER RANGERS Opens March 24

Follow a group of high schoolers with special super powers as they join together for this updated take on the classic kids TV series. This action sci-fi film stars Bryan Cranston, Elizabeth Banks, Naomi Scott and Becky G. 10 & Older

FAMILY FAVORITES CLASSIC MOVIE SERIES March 26 – Apr. 30, 3 p.m.

Share your most beloved childhood films on the big screen with your kids as this popular movie series returns to Tampa Theatre in downtown Tampa. Discounted kids’ tickets are $8 for ages 12 and younger and adult tickets are $10. For film titles and details as they become available, go to tampatheatre.org 8 & Older

THE BOSS BABY Opens March 31

Meet a unique infant with a penchant for business suits and briefcases as he teams up with his older brother to foil the plot of an evil CEO of Puppy Co. in this imaginative new animated comedy. Film features voices of Miles Christopher Bakshi, Alec Baldwin and Steve Buscemi. Film is rated PG. 8 & Older

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

Check out this exhibit focused on the career and life of the acclaimed 20th century artist on display at The Dali in St. Pete. See paintings, drawings and personal photographs from the celebrated female artist and influential icon. thedali.org 8 & Older

THE OPEN ROAD: PHOTOGRAPHY AND THE AMERICAN ROAD TRIP Through June 4, various times

Take a journey through photography capturing the joys and culture of the roadways in this latest exhibit on display at The Museum of Fine Arts in St. Petersburg. Photographers capture the freedom, discovery and escape of traveling the wide open road. mfastpete.org Everyone

ART ON THE HOUSE March 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31, 4-10 p.m.

Stop by the Tampa Museum of Art for a pay-as-youwill admission promotion every Friday this month. Kick off the weekend by viewing the Museum’s latest exhibits. tampamuseum.org Everyone

GASPARILLA FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS March 4-5, various times

Bring the whole family to downtown Tampa for this special celebration of art at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and Kiley Gardens. Festival features a variety of art media, live entertainment and a children's art program, Art Collectors in Training. Festival runs 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday Free admission. gasparillaarts.com Everyone

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

Create your own masterpiece inspired by works in art collections and special exhibits inside the Museum of Fine Arts in St. Pete every first and third Saturday monthly. Select a grab bag featuring favorite activities from the year to produce a oneof-a-kind project. Free with museum admission. mfastpete.org 5 & Older 62 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

FILM GASPARILLA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL March 2-9 Tampa's award winning Gasparilla International

Film Festival kicks off 8 days and more than 40 films beginning March 2nd with the Audi Tampa VIP Opening Night Reception and screening of Burn Your Maps. GIFF features film screenings, industry panels, receptions, parties and red carpet events. Various events require tickets or passes, and events sell out quickly. For more information go to gasparillafilmfestival.com Everyone

LEAP! Opens March 3

Meet a young orphan who longs to become a ballerina and runs off to Paris to fulfill her dreams in this animated adventure. Film features the voice talents of Elle Fanning, Dane DeHaan, Maddie Ziegler and Carly Rae Jepsen. Running time, 89 minutes. Check local listings for showtimes. 8 & Older

SUNSET CINEMA AT PIER 60 March 3-4, 10-12, 16-18, 24-25 and 31, at dusk

Catch a flick under the stars with the family at Sunset Cinema at Pier 60 on Clearwater Beach. Bring a blanket or low lying lawn chair with popcorn and concessions available for purchase. This month’s films are “Surf ’s Up: Wave Mania,” “Ben Hur,” “Secret Life of Pets,” “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End,” “Finding Nemo,” “Minions,” “Captain America Civil War,” “Masterminds,” “The BFG,” “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban” and “Pete’s Dragon.” For more information, call 727-4346060 or visit sunsetsatpier60.com Everyone

GASPARILLA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL FAMILY FUN DAY March 5, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Bring the kids to Centennial Park for a day of movie fun as part of the Suncoast Credit Union Gasparilla International Film Festival Family Fun Day. Kids

THEATER & DANCE SLEEPING BEAUTY March 2, 7 p.m.

Experience the beloved fairy tale through the beauty of dance in this classical ballet by the Moscow Festival Ballet when it comes to Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. Discover good and bad fairies, a beautiful princess and dreamy prince and the courtly splendor and storybook kingdom. Tickets are $35$125. rutheckerdhall.com 8 & Older

TAJ EXPRESS: THE BOLLYWOOD MUSICAL REVUE March 3 and 4, various times

Immerse yourself in the joyful dance, colorful costumes and vibrant world of Bollywood onstage in this fusion of film, dance and music at Straz Center in Tampa. Take a journey through modern Indian culture and society and enjoy the live, high-energy celebration. Tickets start at $45. strazcenter.org 8 & Older

SOMETHING ROTTEN! March 7-12, various times

See the hilarious smash set in the 1590s that tells the story of Nick and Nigel Bottom, two desperate

brothers looking to write the next big play while rock star William Shakespeare keeps getting all of the good fortune when this Tony-nominated hit musical visits Tampa’s Straz Center. Tickets start at $31. strazcenter.org 10 & Older

INFORMED CONSENT March 15 – Apr. 9

Watch this powerful drama about one woman’s quest to answer the mysteries of science and her own life inspired by a landmark court case at American Stage in St. Petersburg. Catch this production that asks the question: is your DNA your destiny? For tickets and showtimes, visit americanstage.org Teen & Older

SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER – THE MUSICAL March 17, 8 p.m.

Dance from your seats as the iconic tale of Tony Manero, the kid from Brooklyn who wants to dance his way to a better life, takes the stage at The Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg. Fueled by the Bee Gees’ timeless hits, this contemporary retelling of the classic story takes audiences to the dance floor in this coming-of-age disco fantasy. Tickets are $49.50, $59.50 and $69.50. themahaffey.com 12 & Older

A SKULL IN CONNEMARA March 17 – Apr. 9, various times

Join the Jobsite Theater as it brings what’s been hailed as a blasphemously funny whodunit complete with flying skulls and bloody hatchets to the Shimberg Playhouse at Straz Center in Tampa. Shows are 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 4 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $28. jobsitetheater.org Teen & Older

ONCE March 18, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Fall in love with this enchanting tale of a Dublin street musician about to give up on a dream when a beautiful young woman takes a sudden interest in his haunting love songs as this winner of eight Tony Awards including Best Musical arrives at Ruth Eckerd Hall for two shows only. For tickets, go to rutheckerdhall.com. 12 & Older

TANGO LOVERS March 26, 6 p.m.

Take to the dance floor with talented performers direct from Argentina and Uruguay in this blend of world-class dancers and musicians, the spirit of the city of Buenos Aires and a sensual and dynamic mixture of classical and contemporary onstage at St. Pete’s Mahaffey Theater. Tickets are $32.50-$88.50. themahaffey.com 12 & Older

12TH ANNUAL YOUTH INTERNATIONAL BALLET COMPETITION March 27-30, various times

See talented pre-professional ballet dancer ages 7-21 of all nationalities take the stage at the Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg as you catch round 2 of this ADC| IBC program. Tickets are $6.50-$11.50. themahaffey.com Everyone

TONY BENNETT March 2, 7:30 p.m.

Catch a music legend in concert when he brings his signature charm and vocal stylings to the stage at The Mahaffey Theater in St. Pete. Hear classic like “Steppin’ Out with My Baby” and “I Left My Heart in San Francisco.” Tickets are $68-$153. themahaffey.com Everyone

AMOS LEE March 3, 8 p.m.

Hear the talented singer-songwriter as he brings his distinctive blend of folk, rock and soul to Tampa Theatre in downtown Tampa. Lee will perform tracks from his latest album Mountains of Sorrow, Rivers of Song as well as his previous work. Tickets start at $39.50. tampatheatre.org 10 & Older

NORAH JONES March 7, 8 p.m.

Experience the soulful and jazzy sound of the GRAMMY® Award-winning singer when she tours to support her latest album Day Breaks at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. Tickets are $75.50 and $150. rutheckerdhall.com 10 & Older

GASPARILLA MUSIC FESTIVAL March 11-12, various times

Gather friends and head to downtown Tampa’s Curtis Hixon Park for a full lineup of music. This year’s headliner is Cage the Elephant joined by such notable performers as Have Gun Will Travel, Ryan Adams and Kelsey Waldon. General admission tickets are $40 Saturday, $30 Sunday, and $60 2-day. VIP tickets also are available. For full lineup details and ticket information, visit gasparillamusic.com Everyone

GASPARILLA MUSIC FESTIVAL KIDS FEST AND GCM PARTNER EVENT March 11-12, various times

Bring the kids to experience the joys of music at this year’s Gasparilla Music Festival with free admission for kids 12 and younger and fun music-focused activities daily at noon. The Festival partners with Glazer Children’s Museum (GCM) on Sunday, March 12 for more musical fun for the kids. From 10 a.m. to noon, attend a meet and greet with GCM Festival headliner Secret Agent 23 Kiddo to include a mini-concert, tasty treats and photo ops. Concert tickets are $20 general admission and $15 for premium and super members. From 1-5 p.m., kids can visit the museum for free and enjoy a musical instrument petting zoo, activities on the physics of sound and concerts by featured kids’ artists. glazermuseum.org 3-12

THE GAME OF THRONES LIVE CONCERT EXPERIENCE March 12, 8 p.m. Enter the world of Westeros with this immersive music and visual experience when the Seven Kingdoms are unveiled at Amalie Arena. Event features state-of-the-art technology, a full orchestra and choir backed by scenes from the hit HBO television series taking fans on a musical journey from King’s Landing to Winterfell to The Wall. Tickets start at $35.75. amaliearena.com Teen & Older

DRUMLINE LIVE March 26, 7:30 p.m.

Arrive at the intersection of big band with marching band in this nonstop musical extravaganza of swinging tunes, popping percussion and high-stepping dance in Carol Morsani Hall at the Straz Center in Tampa. Created by the executive band consultant for the movie "Drumline", the show brings musical energy and riveting sound to the stage. Tickets start at $29. strazcenter.org Everyone

MUSIC & COMEDY

SET SAIL WITH WESTLAKE SPRING GALA March 4, time TBA

Join Kemp, Ruge & Green and show your support for students and programs at Westlake Christian School at this school fundraiser hosted by Ruth Eckerd Hall in its elegant Margarete Heye Great Room. Put on your best “dress flip-flops” or topsiders as guests set sail during this yacht club-themed event. For tickets and more information, visit westlakegala.com Moms, Dads

CORBETT PREP ADMISSIONS OPEN HOUSE March 7, 8:30 a.m.

Get questions answered and learn about the curriculum and extracurricular programs for students in grades PreK3-8 that are offered through Corbett Preparatory School in North Tampa. Meet teachers and staff and take a tour of the school. For more information, call 813-961-3087. corbettprep.com Moms, Dads

SAFE SITTER March 11, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

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

LUNCH & LEARN: LIVING AN INSPIRED AND BALANCED LIFE March 16, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Get pointers from a Certified Life Coach about life balance and creating it for all aspects of your life as part of this Lunch and Learn series offered through The Helen Gordon Davis Centre for Women in Hyde Park. Advance registration is required. Sign up online at thecentre.wufoo.com/forms/ mdi28dk1dshmpm or call 813-251-8437. Cost is $5 members and $10 non-members. thecentre.org Moms

PATEL CONSERVATORY PRESENTS SPEAKING UP FOR SUCCESS March 20 – May 8, 7-9 p.m. Enroll in this valuable eight-week course at Patel Conservatory in downtown Tampa that provides working professionals with the tools to present themselves and their ideas in meetings and speeches. Participants will focus on the preparation required for a successful presentation and techniques to ease the public speaking process. Tuition is $200. Registration and additional details are available at patelconservatory.org Moms, Dads

ANNUAL GALA OF GIVING – TROPICAL NIGHTS 2017 March 25, 6-11 p.m.

Come out for a fun night of food and entertainment to benefit Corpus Christi Catholic School at this event hosted by Hunter’s Green Country Club in Tampa Palms. For over a decade, parents, alumni and community friends have gathered annually for dinner, dancing and an auction to celebrate the Catholic school’s programs. For tickets, go to cccs.ejoinme.org/MyEvents/TropicalNightsGala/tabid/805815/ Default.aspx Moms, Dads

THE ANNUAL BARON GALA AT ST. PETERSBURG CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL March 25, 6:30 p.m.

Attend this premier social event for the alumni, parents and other family and friends of St. Petersburg Catholic High School at this gala inside the school’s St. John Bosco Center for the Arts. Enjoy cocktails and dinner while mingling and bidding on over 100 silent auction items and 10 live auction items. Proceeds impact both current and future students at the schools. Tickets are $125 each and can be purchased at stpetersburghs.ejoinme.org/BaronGala2017 Moms, Dads

REAL MUSIC SERIES AT BUSCH GARDENS TAMPA Through March 4, various times

See Busch Gardens Tampa's longest running concert series before it wraps this month with country star Lee Greenwood. Concerts are free with park admission. buschgardenstampa.com Everyone

EDUCATION & CLASSES

MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 63

Elementary school programs

Animal Sciences, Creative Science Centre, Cultural Arts & Humanities, Gifted & Talent Development, International Studies, International Baccalaureate (IB), Medical & Science Exploration, Visual & Performing Arts and World Studies

Middle school programs

Boys Preparatory Academy, Creative Science Centre, Cultural Arts & Humanities, Environmental Studies, Girls Preparatory Academy, International Baccalaureate (IB), International Studies, and Math, Science and Technology

High school programs

Architecture, Arts, Biomedical-Biotechnical, Center for International Studies, Collegiate Academy, Computer Game Design, Computer Systems Engineering, Engineering, Health Professions, International Baccalaureate (IB) and Urban Teaching Academy (UTA)

Spring Application Application Period Dates: Period:

Choice Information Line

Middle and High Schools November 12, 2013 - December 18, 2013 Elementary, Middle and Current Kg-4th grade students in HCPS (online only)

High School applications accepted Elementary Schools January 14, 2014 - February 14, 2014 All entering Kg-5th grade students

April 4 - 14, 2017 64 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

choice.mysdc.org

Making Waves

Opening Summer 2017, Orlando’s first resort wave pool, tiered new deck space with additional lounge chairs, 16 private cabanas, a kids interactive pool, and a rest and relaxation pool are among the resort’s new features.

102 Days of Summer kicks off Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day with Fireworks on select weekends, and poolside fun all summer long!

SUMMER SPECIAL

OFF YOUR NEXT STAY

B OOK YOU R SU MMER STAY B EFORE 5/1/17, ONLI N E OR CALL 1-80 0 -843 -6664.* U SE P ROMO CODE: SU MP RO

OmniHotels.com/Orlandowave 1–800–843–6664

* Prepayment is required, and non-refundable. Valid 5/26/17 through 9/4/17.

MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 65

Odessa Christian School

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 Schedule a tour today and fall in love with OCS! www.odessachristianschool.org (813) 792-1825 @odessachristianschool

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

facebook.com/ocswranglers/

www.TampaTraining.com/kids-college

19521 Michigan Avenue · Odessa, Florida

EMPOWERING today’s youth for tomorrow’s SUCCESS!

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

3/31 TBPM

813-915-6455 3/31 TBPM

66 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017

HIGH SCHOOL

A•

•••ITALY

•TAMP ••

TAMPA!

••ITALY

Travel to ITALY

ANNIVERSARY

•TAMP ••

arriving

APRIL 06-09 festa 2017

at Centennial Park

SATURDAY, APRIL 8

BOCCE INVITATIONAL at Centennial Park

HOMEMADE VINO COMPETITION

at The Italian Club

YBOR CITY'S GOT TALENT

at The Italian Club

Food! Children's Area! & more!

featuring

ZUCCHERO

THURSDAY, APRIL 6 WINES OF ITALY at The Italian Club FRIDAY, APRIL 7 KREWE BOCCE TOURNAMENT

SUNDAY, APRIL 9 at CENTENNIAL PARK

VIP Packages Available. More Information + Admission Available Online

presented by

www.FestaItalianaTampa.com

MAR 2017 | TampaBayParenting.com 67

Help Your Baby Sleep Safely Protect your baby from suffocation and SIDS with these safe sleep tips.

Always put your baby on BACK to sleep.

Baby should sleep ALONE in a safe crib or bassinet. Keep baby’s face uncovered for easy breathing. Use a one-piece sleeper instead of a blanket.

Do not let anyone smoke around your baby.

No pillows, blankets, stuffed animals or bumpers should be in your baby’s crib or bassinet.

Join Safe Baby Plus Online! Get your Ages & Stages developmental questionnaire ONLINE. Get ideas for fun, free activities to help your baby learn. Receive updates from Safe Baby on infant safety and development. Visit www.healthysafebaby.org or call 813-868-7384 to join.

68 TampaBayParenting.com | MAR 2017