LIVE | LOVE | PLAY
PLAYGROUND a lifestyle magazine for central florida's modern parents
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
THE PAMPER GUIDE Page 36
CREATIVE EATS LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS FOR KIDS 13 HALLOWEEN ACTIVITIES UNIQUE SWIMMING EXPERIENCES IN FLORIDA
Cover Contest Winner! CHECK OUT MORE CONTESTANTS ON PAGE 18
Generosity of space. Millions of twinkling lights and our soaring 60-foot Christmas tree. Hundreds of enhanced cleaning protocols. Boundless family-friendly events, from ice tubing and Cirque Dreams Unwrapped to our brand-new I Love Christmas Movies™ immersive pop-up experience featuring ELF™, NATIONAL LAMPOON’S CHRISTMAS VACATION™, THE POLAR EXPRESS™, and more! November 13 – January 3 | ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.com NATIONAL LAMPOON’S CHRISTMAS VACATION and all related characters and elements © & ™ Turner Entertainment Co. · ELF and all related characters and elements © & ™ Turner Entertainment Co. (s20) · THE POLAR EXPRESS and all related characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s20)
COMPASSION IS CONTAGIOUS
There’s something going around. Only this time it’s not a cause for concern, but celebration. At Nemours Children’s Health, an infection of courage, compassion and never giving up has been spreading unchecked since the day we opened our doors. Compelling us to do whatever is necessary for the health of children everywhere. Whether that means new and innovative medical breakthroughs or better, more convenient ways of bringing them to our patients. Because at Nemours Children’s Health, we’ll never stop spreading the best of what the human spirit has to offer. Learn more at Nemours.org/WorthCatching
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Local Learning Pods for Virtual Students
FREE Digital Issues All of our print issues are available in digital format on our website. Flip through the pages, download PDFs or share an article with friends, all for free.
Many families are considering innovative learning pods to avoid the learning struggles experienced in the spring. To set their children up for success during the new school year, many parents are using a private tutors to provide their students with review and practice of the material and help with assignments. Parents have also inquired about a tutor overseeing the instruction of small “pods” or groups of same-grade children. They are collaborating with other parents to host these pods of about 3–4 students in their home. playgroundmagazine.com/local-learning-pods-for-virtual-students
Social Distancing Birthday Party Ideas https://playgroundmagazine.com/social-distancingbirthday-party-ideas/
PLAY @ Home Online Articles PlaygroundMagazine.com Stay & PLAY Guide Sign up for our weekly e-newsletters for tips to keep the kids happy and you sane while practicing social distancing. playground-magazine.com/ the-weekend-playguide
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Visit our website for ways to PLAY at home. We've done the research and gathered the info you need all in one place! Here are our favorite articles to entertain your crew at home: Make Your Own Candy Sushi
Create a Family Mission Statement
Healthy Snack: Apple Donuts
Recycling Quiz for Kids
Nice Cream Bowls
Managing Sibling Spar Wars
3 Steps to Your First Family Fishing Adventure
15 Things to Do in the Orlando Area While Avoiding Crowds
Homework Help: Ease Frustration & Boost Focus Great Hikes for Kids: The Florida Trail
@PLAYorlando 4 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2020
Stay and PLAY: Online and Local Resources to Entertain Kids While Social Distancing
@PLAYmag
@ PlayMagCF
Now Enrolling Kiddie Academy has the teachers, tools and inspiration it takes to nurture oversized confidence and big ideas. It’s all part of becoming an amazing adult, and begins with our Life Essentials® philosophy:
Learn more at kiddieacademy.com
Apopka Phone: 407-605-5410
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INFANTS • TODDLERS • PRESCHOOL • PRE-K BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL • SUMMER CAMP
CONTENTS
Calling All PLAYers... Stay connected between issues by signing up for our free Weekend PLAYguide e-newsletter at playgroundmagazine.com or on Facebook @PLAYGROUNDMagazine.
The Oct./Nov. 2020 Issue LIVE
• 8 Publisher's Note • 10 Talk of the Playground • 14 We the Kids • 16 Creative Eats
LOVE
• 18 Cover Photo Contestants • 24 Leadership Programs for Kids
PLAY
• 28 13 Socially Distanced Halloween Ideas • 30 Unique Aquatic Experiences for Kids
• 32 DIY: Monster Mash Trail Mix • 34 See/Saw: Four Seasons Resort Orlando and Mom's Morning Out
• 38 Final Thoughts: Grateful
• • • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION • • •
Cover Photo Contestants Page 18
PAMPER GUIDE
Your guide to local providers of pampering services and products. PAGE 36
Subscribe now to get all six issues of PLAYGROUND Magazine delivered to your door for $15 per year. PlaygroundMagazine.com/Subscribe 6 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2020
TRUSTED PHYSICIAN CARE IN
YOUR COMMUNITY. As you continue protecting yourself and others, Orlando Health wants to remind you that your primary care is important. And at Orlando Health Physician Associates maintaining the safest environment possible continues to be a top priority. Choose a trusted provider. Choose Orlando Health. ADULT | FAMILY | PEDIATRICS | WOMEN’S HEALTH SAME-DAY, NEXT-DAY AND VIRTUAL APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE. OrlandoHealth.com/PhysicianAssociates | (321) 841-3724
PUBLISHER'S NOTE
The No-Theme Issue For one reason and another, we weren't able to make the pre-planned Culture + Food themed issue happen. So, like with everything else in 2020, we decided to go with the flow and just let this issue evolve on its own without forcing a theme or preconceived idea. Hence, our first notheme issue! Who knows, maybe this will be a new trend like no-themed nurseries ... (thinking positive). This issue starts with Talk of the Playground (page 10), a roundup of all the top news in the local parenting community. We The Kids (page 14) offers ideas and activities to teach your brood about government and the election process (in a non-partisan way). We put our staff photographer and her daughter Nina on a project together to create and photograph the healthy treats for picky eaters. Check out their masterpieces (page 16)! Photo: Abby Liga
PLAYGROUND LIVE | LOVE | PLAY Heather Reneau Founder and Publisher heather@playgroundmagazine.com Chrissy Allen Co-Founder Brant Muekeley Financial Manager brant@playgroundmagazine.com Jessica Ventura Advertising Manager jessica@playgroundmagazine.com Cortney Thekan Editor cortney@playgroundmagazine.com Jessica Friend Graphic Design & Photography jessica.friend@playgroundmagazine.com
Our first ever online Cover Photo Contest was a success! We received so many adorable photos of local kids. It was a fun process for us, and we had to share as many as we could with you in our Cover Photo Contestants montage (page 18).
Alicia McKee Sales Assistant & E-newsletter Coordinator alicia@playgroundmagazine.com
One article that had been planned for awhile was Leadership Programs for Kids (page 24). My son attended the free Seminole County Sheriff's Youth Academy program as a rising 8th grader. Based on his experience, I knew I wanted to shine a light on these amazing and accessible programs for local families. So, I enlisted the my education-loving friend Betsy Jewell to write the article for PLAYGROUND readers.
Wendy Meyer Social Media Coordinator & Events Editor wendy@playgroundmagazine.com
We pulled together a list of unique swimming experiences in Florida (page 30). See if you can take your kids to all of these this year! If you're like me, you're looking for ideas to adjust your Halloween celebration to be safe and fun (page 28). The Orange County Library System has provided a DIY craft to make your own Monster Mash Trail Mix (page 32). Last but not least, contributing blogger/influencer Sonni Abatta reminds us to take a moment to notice that there's so much to be grateful for, even in these challenging times (page 38).
- Heather Reneau LIVE | LOVE | PLAY
PLAYGROUN a lifestyl e magaz ine for centra l florida 's moder n parent s
ABOUT THE COVER ...
D
OCTOBER / NOVEMB
ER 2020
THE PAMPER GUIDE Page 36
Congratulations to Isabella and Mia of Lake Mary for winning our online Cover Photo Contest! We loved the colors, photography style and feeling of light, love and happiness this image captured. This gorgeous photo was taken by Cass Russell of ArtfulLifeStudios.com. Please see other Cover Photo Contest submissions on page 18. There were so many cute kids, we had to share some others!
Contributing Writers: Amanda Green, Betsy Jewell, Erin Sullivan, Jill Morgenstern, Sonni Abatta, Tania K. Cowling, Wendy Meyer Contributing Photographers: Abby Liga Cass Russell Jessica Friend Photo Design PLAYGROUND Magazine is published bimonthly by Playground Media Group, LLC, 10151 University Blvd., Ste. 326, Orlando, FL 32817. Telephone 407-221-4932. PLAYGROUND Magazine does not assume liability for products or services advertised herein. The content of PLAYGROUND Magazine is copyrighted by Playground Media Group, LLC.
CREATIVE EATS LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS FOR KIDS 13 HALLOWEEN ACTIVITIES UNIQUE SWIMMING EXPERIENCES IN FLORIDA
Cover Contest Winner! OctNov20_Cover.indd
CHECK OUT MORE CONTESTANTS ON PAGE 18
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Subscribe to PLAYGROUND Magazine at playgroundmagazine.com/subscribe. To update subscription information, email subscriptions@playgroundmagazine.com.
Winter Park Village, a premier destination for shopping, dining and entertainment, is offering more than just your favorite eateries and brands this year. Our customers’ wellbeing is our #1 priority. Those looking for a traditional yet safe holiday shopping experience, can rest assured knowing that all Winter Park Village venues are following COVID-19 safety precautions. If desiring more convenient or contactless options, curb-side pickup and online gift ordering is readily available through most Winter Park Village retailers and restaurants.
Shop, dine and unwind safely this holiday season.
Cheers to a safe, healthy and happy holiday season! For a complete list of Winter Park Village shops, restaurants and more visit ShopWinterParkVillag.net, call 407.571.2700 or scan the QR code below.
@ShopWinterPark @ShopWinterPark @WinterParkVillage
Now Open!
The Talk of the Playground The inside scoop and what’s happening around town for Orlando families!
Words by Wendy Meyer @LittleRebelMom
School-cation? Yes, please! Four Seasons Resort Orlando is now offering supervised virtual learning services. Flexible school schedules and accessible e-learning mean it’s now easier than ever to take a family vacation when school is in session. The supervised schoolwork sessions at Four Seasons Resort Orlando will be held in small-group classroom settings, physically distanced, with no more than six children per class. The spacious event rooms of Four Seasons Resort Orlando are the classroom setting, featuring airy and open rooms with a wall of windows for natural light and a private terrace for outside break time. Each student will have a dedicated desk area, and highspeed premium WiFi will be provided. The schedule is offered as either a half-day from 9 a.m. to noon or a full day from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Lunch is included.
Stamp your way through the U.S.A.! Maybe you and yours are taking the laptop and iPads on the road for some traveling while attending virtual school. We love that idea, and here is a way to explore the National Parks during your adventure! Stamp Your Way Through the U.S.A. is a beautiful and creatively illustrated series designed for collecting official stamps at each park while stimulating interest and excitement in wildlife and the unique geographical features of each park. Start planning your family road trip today using this kidfriendly guide to all 62 National Parks! stampyourwayusa.com
Take a Virtual Field Trip to Crayola Experience Put a little color into your homeschool experience with a virtual trip to Crayola! Their immersive online scavenger hunt will use a 3-hour guided walk-through, pre-recorded shows and hands-on activities to put smiles on your kids’ faces as they build their critical thinking skills. The all-inclusive kit is personalized and comes with everything you need for your virtual trip. PLAY TIP: Order a group kit for your homeschool learning pod and plan a socially distanced activity together! crayolaexperience.com/orlando/virtual-trip
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One-to-one, personalized tutoring in the comfort of your own home. • We customize to fit each students individual needs. • We tutor all ages and all subjects, including SAT and ACT Test Prep. • Call now to book a free consultation.
jessicafriendphotodesign.com 407.212.7881
Michelle Thompson • 407-917-9538 mthompson@tutordoctor.com • www.tutordoctor.com/sanford
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FAMILIES | CHILDREN | MATERNITY | EVENTS
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A TRADITION OF SUCCESS
“#1 K-12 Private School”
“Best Private School” 20+ Years
– Niche.com
– Orlando Magazine
Sanika Dange, Class of 2009
Award-winning WESH 2 News anchor
Toby Wosskow (right), Class of 2011
Filmmaker in consideration for 92nd OSCARS®
“Family Favorite”
– Playground Magazine
Joel Berry II, Class of 2014
Collegiate National Champion & professional basketball player
PreK–12 on-campus and digital campus options available. www.lhps.org • 407.206.1900 ext. 1 • 901 Highland Avenue • Orlando, Florida 32803
TALK OF THE PLAYGROUND VPK At-Home Guide
When looking fierce is what you do best...
Are you a parent of a VPK child who is not attending a brick and mortar campus this year? Are you looking for a guide you can use for at-home learning to support your child’s kindergarten readiness skills? A team at Collaborative Corner for Exceptional Children created the free downloadable VPK At-Home Guide utilizing the Office of Florida’s Early Learning and Developmental Standards. Join the Collaborative Corner’s At-Home VPK Community Facebook group for support throughout the year. collaborativecorner.org/blog/ getting-started-vpk-athome-guide
One of Central Florida’s favorite baby boutiques is moving to Winter Park! Maison Baby & Kids will open its new location in December and will be expanding to include big kids' clothes and toys! Check out Maison Baby & Kids online at maison-baby. com for this Posh Peanut onepiece among other luxe brands.
SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS:
Sunny Paper Blossoms are the perfect gift! These fun and chic paper blossoms are for everyone, even those of us with a black thumb! High school besties and grad students turned crafting entrepreneurs, Bia and Ellice Mae create beautifully crafted and unique floral arrangements from paper for an everlasting and elegant gift or display! PLAY TIP: Teachers, students and parents alike would LOVE a custom backdrop adorned with paper flowers or seasonal decorations to jazz up ZOOM sessions!
instagram.com/sunnypaperbloomsco
Pompeii: The Immortal City On display from October 26 to January 24 at the OSC Pompeii was frozen in time, and the Orlando Science Center is only one of three sites in the country to bring you into the daily life of a first-century Roman town. From the moment the volcano erupts to the rediscovery of Pompeii in 1748, this interactive experience lets visitors play archeologist through artifact displays, digital replicas, immersive videos and more! osc.org/pompeii
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Skye Bows These Bows Feed Hungry Kids No Child Hungry founder Lisa Lowry and her sweet 7-year-old have teamed up as the mother/daughter duo behind Skye Bows! These adorable hair bows fund meals for No Child Hungry in an effort to provide meals to children and families in need. For each bow purchased, Skye Bows provides five meals! instagram.com/skyebowsforacause
CALL TODAY y AND Virtuall r Tour ou school!
Creating Sharp Minds, Building Strong Bodies Preschool and Private Kindergarten Learning Through Music and Movement!
BURN ENERGY AND BUILD MOTOR SKILLS MEET NEW FRIENDS AND LEARN THROUGH PLAY NEW ADVENTURES IN EVERY CLASS!
GYMNASTICS AND NINJA KID CLASSES ARE BACK!
A SAFE PLACE FOR YOUR LITTLE LEARNER TO LEARN!
Call to Register Today!
407.365.6800 PROGRAMS BEGIN AS EARLY AS FOUR MONTHS
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WINDE R MERE PREPARATORY SCHOOL
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SCHEDULE A VIRTUAL OR FACE TO FACE TOUR TODAY! (407) 905-7737
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We the Kids
With the presidential election coming in November, now is the perfect time to teach your kiddos the basics of democracy and how our government works.
Photo: iStock.com | SDI Productions
Election Kit for Kids! The National Children’s Book and Literacy Alliance created the Race to the Ballot: Our White House Presidential Campaign and Election Kit for Kids! It includes a book and website to encourage young people to engage in active learning and explore their political views.
Well-Read Check out Amelia Bedelia’s First Vote ($13), by Herman Parish and Lynne Avril, for a fun way to introduce your good citizen to the election process.
Democracy Facts for Kids All the cool kids are learning about democracy and what it means to us and our families. This resource is a great way to explain what democracy is and where it came from to your school-aged kiddos. coolkidfacts.com/democracy-facts
ourwhitehouse.org/race-to-the-ballot
Why Voting Is Important The Kids Academy YouTube channel has a video explaining the voting process and why it is important for every American to vote. This is a perfect resource to introduce elementary school-aged children to the election process in a way that they can understand. youtube.com/watch?v=GrG7zBUDiqQ
If I Were President Have your mini pretend he or she is president for the day. Discuss what the president does and some of the issues our country faces. Then have your kiddo make a list of the top three issues he or she would address as president.
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Timeless Classics & Whimsical Looks tugboatandthebird.com 407.647.KIDS
Modern Lifestyle Photography simplyshelbyphoto.com 561.654.4339 Photography: Simply Shelby Photography Wardrobe: tugboat and the bird
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LIVE
Creative Eats Do you have picky eaters at home? Here are some fun ways to present healthy food. Words by Tania K. Cowling Photos by Jessica Friend Do you hear your child saying, “Yuck!” to foods you serve? Getting kids to eat healthy is a real challenge. If your kiddos are only asking for chicken nuggets and milkshakes, then they may be lacking many of the vitamins and minerals they need for good health and growth. If this happens often in your home, then consider your child a selective eater. So, what can parents do? Be a good role model by eating healthy foods and keeping the mealtime atmosphere calm and argument-free. The American Academy of Pediatrics has put together some quick tips about feeding a picky eater: •
Allow your child to pick a new healthy food at the market.
•
Encourage your child to help you prepare food in the kitchen.
•
Let your child feed himself, even if it’s messy.
•
Give your child choices between good foods he likes and new foods to try.
Parents can also be creative chefs and present some fun meals. Children may be so intrigued by the presentation of the food that they're inspired to try something new.
Butterfly Salad • Gather lettuce leaves using both green and red lettuce varieties. • Place the lettuce on a plate to resemble butterfly wings. • Take a carrot stick and insert it in the center of the wings as the insect’s body. • An olive makes the perfect head, and sliced olives can decorate the wings like the black marks of a Monarch butterfly. • Cut two tiny strips of red pepper for the antennae. • Present this salad to your youngsters with their favorite dressing.
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About the Author: Tania K. Cowling is a former educator, author, and freelance/ghostwriter for parenting magazines and online sites. She lives in Central Florida.
Create a fruit tree Serve it in an ice cream cone
• Place a pineapple ring on top of a lettuce leaf on the plate.
Kids like the idea of holding a cone and may eat something good for them because it is presented in a different way. Try scooping cottage cheese into the cone and then sprinkle chopped nuts and fruit on top. Or fill the cone with tuna or chicken salad, which you can top with raisins, celery pieces, sliced olives, shaved carrot or small slivers of red pepper. This tasty pseudo-ice cream cone should lure your child into a fun meal.
• Take a banana half and stand it on its end in the center of the pineapple ring.
Artistic French toast
PLAY Tip: Toothpicks are sharp, and parental supervision is needed while making and eating the fruit tree.
French toast is full of nutrition from eggs and milk, and it's easy to make for any meal. Place a cooked slice on a plate and invite your child to decorate the slice with all sorts of toppings. Provide raisins, fresh fruits, chopped ham, and bacon pieces, along with a shaker of cinnamon. It’s fun to decorate the toast and show your creation before you eat it. Make this a family event each week!
• Invite the kiddos to spear a piece of fruit (grape, strawberry, blueberry, raspberry, etc.) onto a toothpick and stick the other end into their banana tree. • Fill the tree with as many limbs of fruit as it can stand. • What a fun way to get a variety of fruit into your child’s meal without a fuss!
Paint with broccoli I don’t believe in playing with food, but I may make an exception to the rule with this veggie experiment. Give the kids a few stalks of steamed broccoli along with a dollop of cheese sauce, Ranch dressing, ketchup or any other type of sauce you may have. Invite the kids to dip their floret into the sauce, paint on their plate and then eat the "paintbrush". This hands-on fun will entice the kiddos to eat a vegetable they might have balked at without the tasty sauces and unique presentation.
Sailboat regatta eggs • Peel hard-boiled eggs and cut them in half lengthwise. • Remove the yolks and mash them in a bowl with some mayonnaise and mustard. • Spoon the mixture back inside the egg white boats. You can decorate the tops with chopped carrots, chopped green pepper and sliced olives. • Cut construction paper into boat sails and invite the kids to decorate them. • Attach a toothpick to each sail with tape and insert it into the egg boat. PLAY Tip: After letting the kiddos do a “wave run” with the boats first, see how fast they can gobble them up!
Blend it up Smoothies taste great, so what’s the harm in sneaking a little spinach into the mix? How about a carrot? Your kids may never know they're consuming vegetables with their yummy fruit smoothie. Add a little powdered protein for added nutrition.
Enjoy these meal ideas or brainstorm your own — picky eaters may just become a thing of the past! 17 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2020
COVER PHOTO CONTESTANTS Thank you to everyone who participated in the online Cover Photo Contest. We received so many adorable entries. Here are some of our favorites!
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Cover Photo Contestants
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Cover Photo Contestants
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THE GENEVA SCHOOL A CHRISTIAN CLASSICAL SCHOOL
407-332-6363 www.genevaschool.org loveithinkipursue
Creating relationally rich experiences of WONDER while encouraging a LOVE of learning.
LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS FOR KIDS Central Florida offers a diverse selection of opportunities for developing leadership skills in kids and teens. Leadership training helps young people cultivate confidence, critical thinking, problem-solving and communication skills. Whether your child is curious about scouting, law enforcement, community service or Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM), there’s a club, camp or academy for every interest. Words by Betsy Jewell
4-H
4-H YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS OF ORANGE COUNTY The Orange County 4-H Youth Development Program uses a learn-by-doing approach to help youth gain the knowledge and skills they need to be responsible, productive citizens. This mission is accomplished by creating safe and inclusive learning environments, involving caring adults and utilizing the expertise and resources of the University of Florida and the nationwide land grant university system. 4-H has three major project areas: STEM, Healthy Living and Citizenship/ Leadership. 4-H works with the university faculty to develop a research-based educational curriculum that is both age-appropriate and useful for clubs or in schools. There are several youth leadership clubs available, including Understanding 4-H Councils, What is County Council? and 4-H Youth Council Constitution and Bylaws. Camps and meetings are being held virtually this fall. For more information, availability and a complete list of programs, visit the website: sfyl.ifas.ufl. edu/orange/4-h-youth-development.
4-H YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM OF SEMINOLE COUNTY
4-H
The Seminole County 4-H Youth Development Program offers clubs that focus on a variety of project areas for youth ages 5–18. Leadership projects are available for youth of all ages through clubs and individually. Programs run from September 1 through the end of the school year. 4-H youth summer camps offer an opportunity for teens ages 14–18 to serve as camp counselors. All programming, including Youth Council meetings, is currently being offered virtually. For more information, availability and a complete list of programs, visit the website: seminolecountyfl.gov/ departments-services/leisure-services/extension-services/4-h-youth-development.
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CENTRAL FLORIDA BOY SCOUTS
Boy Scouts
The Central Florida Boy Scouts Council is one of the largest youth-serving agencies in Central Florida, instilling timeless values of character, citizenship and leadership in each young man and woman who enters the program. The Central Florida Council provides educational-based skills and activities. Currently, there are over 20,000 Scouts and more than 6,000 volunteer leaders. The Central Florida Council also owns and operates the Leonard & Marjorie Williams Family Scout Reservation and provides an outstanding outdoor experience for youth and adults. Meetings and events are currently being held virtually. For more information and updates, please visit the website: cflscouting.org.
Girl Scouts
GIRL SCOUTS OF CITRUS Girl Scouts of Citrus is the leading organization for girls in Central Florida. The organization focuses on creating opportunities for girls to discover their own potential, connect with their peers and adult mentors and take action in big ways. The core experiences of Girl Scouts include fun and a sense of community and sisterhood in a new and innovative way. At Girl Scouts, girls will prepare for a lifetime of leadership, success and adventure in a safe, no-limits place designed for and by girls. The Girl Scout Leadership Experience provides a collection of engaging, challenging and fun activities like earning badges, going on awesome trips, selling cookies, exploring science, getting outdoors and doing community service projects. Each Girl Scout will lead her own adventure and team up with other girls to choose Girl Scouts the exciting, hands-on activities that interest her most. Along the way, she’ll gain important skills in four areas that form the foundation of the Girl Scout Leadership Experience: Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM); Outdoors; Life Skills; and Entrepreneurship. Programs are currently being held virtually, and the Girl Scouts at Home programming provides opportunities that can be done safely at home. For more information, visit the website: citrus-gs.org/en/about-girl-scouts/our-council/about-council.html.
CIVIL AIR PATROL'S CADET PROGRAM
CAP
Civil Air Patrol (CAP), the official auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, is a nonprofit organization with 60,000 members nationwide, operating a fleet of 550 aircraft. In its Air Force auxiliary role, CAP performs about 85% of continental U.S. inland search and rescue missions as tasked by the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center and is credited by the AFRCC with saving an average of 70 lives annually. The members play a leading role in aerospace education and serve as mentors to more than 25,000 young people currently participating in the CAP cadet programs. CAP focuses on Aerospace Education, Emergency Services and Cadet Programs. The program is open to youth ages 12–18, and they offer rolling admission throughout the year. Currently, meetings are being held virtually. For more information, contact Squadron Commander Lt. Bryan Booth at bbooth@flwg.us or visit the website: fl242.flwg.us.
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LEADERSHIP 4GIRLS Leadership 4Girls empowers girls to be effective leaders, to confidently achieve their goals, to positively influence others and to live a successful, balanced life. Leadership 4Girls is dedicated to preparing girls for a lifetime of success. The organization coaches every girl to develop inner confidence and unwavering competence that will stay with her for a lifetime. Leadership 4Girls offers summer camps focused on learning leadership skills, navigating social media, building quality relationships and friendships, working effectively in groups, negotiating challenging situations, identifying personal strengths and encouraging and motivating others. For more information, visit the website: leadership4girls.org.
ORANGE COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE EXPLORERS PROGRAM & TEEN ACADEMY Leadership 4Girls The Orange County Sheriff’s Office Explorer Program is designed for young people ages 12-21 who are interested in law enforcement. The primary function of the Explorer Program is assisting the Sheriff’s Office through community service projects while learning about the many aspects of the criminal justice system. By being a member in this program, youth can broaden their outlook and understanding of the real world of police work. Included in the program are patrol procedures, traffic stops, arrest techniques, crime scene investigation, firearms safety, traffic control, search and seizure, crime prevention, first aid and fingerprinting. Once an Explorer reaches the age of 16, he or she can ride as an observer with uniformed deputies and specialized units. In addition, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office offers a Teen Academy for students ages 13–17. This free weeklong academy is held during the summer. For more information about any of these programs, visit the website: ocso.com/Services/Administrative-Services/Support-Services-Division/Explorer-Post-61.
SEMINOLE COUNTY SHERIFF’S CADETS & EXPLORERS
Cadets & Explorers
The Seminole County Sheriff’s Office Police Athletic League invites kids in grades 6–8 to join their Cadet Program. Meetings take place once per week and are currently being held virtually. Sheriff’s Cadets are trained in what law enforcement officers see and do on a daily basis. They tour the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office facilities (jail, tech services and communications center) and see demonstrations from a variety of Sheriff’s Office specialty units. Cadets learn life skills, perform community service and get involved throughout the community through fundraising activities. When Cadets progress to 9th grade, they become a Seminole County Sheriff’s Office Explorer (Youth Deputy). Explorers further their education in law enforcement, attend and compete in competitions, and are permitted to “ride along” with deputy sheriffs while on patrol. Kids who are interested in either of these programs should visit the website and complete an application. seminolesheriff.org
SEMINOLE COUNTY SHERIFF’S YOUTH ACADEMY The Seminole County Sheriff’s Youth Academy Summer Camp is an exciting and interactive weeklong academy designed to educate youth in the community about current safety challenges and provide them with an inside look at the programs, training and technology used by the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office. There are no physical requirements, and it’s a free course taught by members of the Sheriff’s Office leadership team, deputy sheriffs, investigators and other agency staff. The camp is open to youth attending grades 6–8. Applications for next summer’s camps will be available in the spring of 2021. For more information, visit the website: seminolesheriff.org.
Sheriff's Youth Academy
About the Author: BETSY JEWELL is a Central Florida-based content creator and mother of two teenage boys. After a long career managing projects and producing digital content for a certain mouse, she has set off on a new adventure as a podcaster and blogger at betsyjewell.com.
26 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2020
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13 Socially Distanced Halloween Activities Words by Jill Morgenstern With the impact of COVID-19 on children still relatively unknown, parents have mixed feelings about whether Halloween traditions should change for this year. Angie Wierzbiki, mother of two young children, says, “I think I would be OK trick-or-treating in our neighborhood but not attending one of the numerous community Halloween events.” Rachael Hutchinson is another mother who will let her children trick-or-treat. “Since they’ll be wearing masks like everyone is supposed to, I don’t see the issue.” Other parents are switching up their plans altogether. “I just don’t see how anything is going to be the same this year, so instead of staying home and being disappointed, we booked a little getaway for the weekend,” says Megan Wildgoose of her family’s plans. No matter your plans for the big night, here are some great ways to celebrate Halloween safely:
iStock.com | Anchiy
1. HOST A VIRTUAL COSTUME CONTEST
7. TELL GHOST STORIES OR READ SCARY LIBRARY BOOKS
Even if Halloween parties and events are off the table, kids will still want to share their costumes. Get together using FaceTime, Zoom or other video calling methods. Why not have a prize for scariest, funniest or most original?
Family members can take turns telling scary stories. Alternately, check out some Halloween-themed books from the library like The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything by Linda Williams. Older kids might enjoy starting the Bunnicula chapter book series by James Howe or the My Undead Life series by Emma T. Graves.
2. FACE PAINTING Kids love to paint their own faces. Buy a set of face paints, set the kids in front of a mirror and let their artistic talents shine!
3. MOVIE NIGHT Younger children might love It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown or Hotel Transylvania. Older kids might want something scarier! Whether you host a virtual watch party with friends or cozy up together as a family, a spooky movie will put you in the Halloween mood.
4. HOLD AN OUTDOOR PUMPKIN CARVING PARTY Gather up the safety knives and patterns and head outdoors (6 feet apart, of course) to carve pumpkins together! Cleanup is a breeze when pumpkins are carved outside. Younger children could paint their pumpkins instead.
8. PLAY “AND THEN THE BOILER BURST” In this spooky game, players take turns telling a spooky story, either making it up or using a familiar story. A close-by object serves as “base.” At the spookiest part of the story, the storyteller shouts out, “And then the boiler burst!” The first player tagged before reaching base tells the next story.
9. MAKE A SOCIALLY DISTANCED HAUNTED HOUSE Setting up pretend spider webs, skeletons and even old dolls and fake blood can make your front yard into a haunted house for neighbors or friends to enjoy one at a time.
10. BOB FOR APPLES You can use a wading pool, large bucket or tub filled with apples and a bandana to cover the eyes for this healthy and fun family activity.
5. MAKE CARAMEL APPLES OR HALLOWEEN-THEMED TREATS If your cooking skills are limited, there are kits available at many grocery stores around Halloween to help you make traditional caramel apples. A graveyard “dirt cake” made from Oreos is a lot of fun and can be embellished with Nabisco Nutter Butter cookies for ghosts and Pepperidge Farm Milano cookies for gravestones. Or use a doughnut hole, a Life Saver gummy candy and a chocolate chip to make edible eyeballs.
6. HAVE A VIRTUAL HALLOWEEN PARTY
11. PLAY WITH SLIME Make your own or buy some. Add plastic spiders for a creepy effect!
12. HAND OUT CANDY FROM AFAR This is the perfect year to sit outside in a lawn chair with candy on a table and let kids take their own.
13. CANDY SCAVENGER HUNT
Just because you won’t be inviting the entire neighborhood inside your home doesn’t mean you can’t gather online to show each other your costumes and eat treats together! If you gather on apps such as Houseparty, you can even include virtual games.
Hide candy around the yard or house and create a map or list of clues to lead the little ones to the loot.
28 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2020
FAMILY FRIENDLY EDITION
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Unique Swimming Experiences in Florida
Discovery Cove
Childhood in Florida means swimsuits and bare feet. It means water days year-round. It means splash pads and swimming holes, resort pools and river paddles. We can’t think of a better activity that reflects Florida culture more than swimming. Surrounded by water in every direction, Florida families flock to oceans, bays, springs and lakes to take advantage of our state’s beautiful geology. Words by Amanda Green
W
hen I was a kid, I practically lived in my swimsuit. Now, as a mother of two, I keep the Florida family tradition alive by finding fun ways for my own Florida kids to spend time in the water. There are over 1 million swimming pools in the state of Florida, more than 600 miles of beaches, 700 freshwater springs and countless other lakes, ponds and waterways. Needless to say, swimming could easily be our state family sport! Florida kids are lucky. Not only do they have water parks and pools, but they have some truly unique aquatic experiences right at their fingertips. Here are some interesting places to take your family for unique swimming experiences in and around Central Florida.
SHARK SWIM AT DISCOVERY COVE Have a jaw-some time swimming alongside blacktip reef, nurse, zebra and bonnethead sharks, along with thousands of other tropical fish at The Grand Reef inside Discovery Cove® Orlando. The Shark Swim program includes an intimate shark talk and training session with Discovery Cove’s expert Aquarists so guests can learn about several different shark species. The Shark Swim Program is for ages 10+ and starts at $129 per person. Space is limited, and extra health and safety measures are in place to ensure property social distancing. discoverycove.com
SNORKEL IN A GIANT FISH TANK AT RUMFISH GRILL At this uniquely Florida experience, swimmers can snorkel alongside several species of fish in a 33,500-gallon tank built by the stars of Animal Planet’s hit show TANKED, then sit down to enjoy a meal together and talk about what they learned. The Swim with the Fish experience is led by experts at the Marine Exploration Center and is designed to educate guests about the fragile marine environment. This 90-minute experience is for ages 8+ and starts at $35 per person. Space is limited. As of August 2020, this experience is closed due to CDC guidelines, but keep an eye on the website for future booking availability. rumfishgrill.com
30 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2020
SEACAMP IN THE FLORIDA KEYS Go ahead and book your 2021 summer staycation now. This unique camp experience on Big Pine Key is perfect for water lovers of all kinds. Send the kids off to learn all about marine science, SCUBA, sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, lifeguarding and more. Meanwhile, mom and dad can vacation without the kids for a week or two in one of the many nearby resorts in the Florida Keys. The co-ed Sea Camp experience is for children 12–17 years old. You must apply online at seacamp.org. As of now, the 2021 summer season camps are expected to happen as scheduled.
SWIM WITH MANATEES IN CRYSTAL RIVER Swimming with the manatees in Crystal River is practically a Florida rite-of-passage. Crystal River is home to a large population of manatees, especially in the winter months. There are several tour guides in the area that provide opportunities to swim with the gentle sea cows. We recommend booking one for a winter morning when you know there will be a strong cold front. The manatees gather in the warm spring water when the temperatures dip low. Most manatee tours provide masks, snorkels and wet suits. Kids ages 3+ can participate. Pick your guide and call ahead to find out pricing.
iStock.com | Urban78
SCUBA FOR KIDS: POOL S.C.U.B.A.
DIVE FOR YOUR DINNER IN HOMOSASSA BAY
When you’re a Floridian, it makes sense to turn your kids into fish by teaching them how to breathe underwater. The PADI Bubblemaker Program teaches children who are at least 8 years old to use scuba gear in shallow water. They’ll learn things like how to clear a regulator and mask, plus breathing dos and don’ts underwater. PADI also offers a program called SASY for kids ages 4–7. SASY stands for “surface supplied air system.” It looks like scuba gear, but it’s designed to float on the surface. There are several participating dive centers in Central Florida. Go to padi.com/courses/bubblemaker to find one near you.
This activity is best if mom and dad are up for an adventure too. Scallops are a type of mollusk that live in the shallow grassy waters of the Homosassa River, about 2 hours west of Orlando. Tour companies like River Safaris Mile & Wild take guests out on a boat to dive for scallops under the watch of a highly skilled captain. They describe it as an Easter egg hunt underwater! Fun for all ages, a 5-hour semi-private tour for six starts at $79. It includes a license, mask, snorkel, fins and scallop bag. Best part? You can take your collection home at the end of the day. Bon appétit! riverventures.com
HANG TEN LIKE THE PROS AT COCOA BEACH Florida’s Atlantic coast is home to world class surfers like Kelly Slater and Frieda Zamba. Now you can learn to surf like the pros by taking lessons at one of our local beachside surf schools. Cocoa Beach Surf Company and the Ron Jon Surf School are a couple of popular options. At Ron Jon’s, kids ages 5 and up can participate in private lessons to learn how to stand up and ride a wave. Prices vary at different schools, but expect to pay $50–$65 for an hour-long private lesson. ronjonsurfschool.com and cocoabeachsurf.com
This is just a snapshot of the many ways to give your children a true Florida childhood they’ll never forget. Of course, you don’t have to be this “extra” to give your kids a fun day in the water. You can always just hit the closest beach, a local splash pad or even your own backyard pool!
SNORKEL IN A DEEP BLUE CAVERN AT DEVIL’S DEN Less than a 2-hour drive from Orlando will take you to a swimming hole worth putting on your bucket list. Devil’s Den is a cave filled with crystal clear spring water. It’s a popular diving spot, but families can also snorkel and hunt for prehistoric fossils. Scuba and snorkel equipment is available for rental. Children must be over age 6 to enter Devil’s Den. Admission starts at $15 per person on weekdays and $22 per person on weekends and holidays. devilsden.com
BECOME A MERMAID AT WEEKI WACHEE MERMAID CAMP Who doesn’t dream of becoming a mermaid at some point? The 2-day Weeki Wachee Mermaid Camp teaches kids exactly what it takes. They’ll learn to swim with the famous Weeki Wachee mermaids, indulge in a mermaid makeover, get a personal photo session in a tail and more. The camp is available to kids ages 7–14. The 2-day camp costs $375. (P.S. There’s also an adult version of this camp if parents want to brush up on their own mermaid skills!) floridastateparks.org/learn/junior-mermaid-camp 31 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2020
PLAY
MONSTER MASH
TRAIL MIX
A simple, sweet and seasonal treat that kids can help make and enjoy Words by Erin Sullivan, Public Relations Administrator, Orange County Library System You can make your own salty-and-sweet trail mix treat using all sorts of simple ingredients you can find at the store or in your own kitchen cupboard. Use your favorite cereals, crackers, candies, dried fruits and nuts. You can even use leftover Halloween candy, such as candy corn, to make this mix extra festive. PLAY Tip: Provide a variety of treats to choose from so children can make their Monster Mash unique. Mix, stir and mash along with the monsters for a Halloween-themed treat!
INSTRUCTIONS: WHAT YOU’LL NEED: • Milk or white chocolate chips for melting • Base ingredients: Goldfish crackers, popcorn or Chex cereal • Bite-sized candies and dried fruits: Reese’s Pieces, M&Ms, candy corn, candy pumpkins, mini marshmallows, mini Oreos, dried pineapple, raisins or Craisins, banana chips, dried apricots or any other sweet treat you choose • Salty snacks: peanuts, pretzels, salted almonds or rice crackers • Any other bite-sized snacks that you think would be delicious in a sweet-and-salty trail mix
1. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave for 20 seconds on high. 2. Remove, stir, then return to microwave for 15 seconds and stir again. Repeat this process until chocolate is melted and smooth. If you’d prefer, you can also melt the chocolate on a stovetop in a double boiler or in a Candy Maker (if available). PLAY Tip: Melt enough chocolate so each child participating in the activity can have a scoop or two for their mash. 3. Give each child a bowl big enough to hold a small amount of each ingredient. 4. Allow kids to scoop some of the base ingredients into their bowl, and encourage them to mix sweet and salty ingredients of their choosing into the base. 5. Pour a spoon of melted chocolate into the bowl. Allow each child to stir the chocolate as much or as little as they choose. 6. Allow the chocolate to cool. You may want to place bowls in the refrigerator to speed the process. Enjoy!
This recipe is an adaptation from the Orange County Library System’s Little Chef series, which gives kids a chance to get hands-on with simple, easy-tofollow recipes. All of the library’s programs, including Little Chef, happen live online. To find or register for an upcoming event, visit ocls.info. 32 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2020
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Experience More at Four Seasons Resort Orlando A family getaway is now even more enticing with a new offer from Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort, Central Florida’s only Five Diamond Award rated resort. The new Experience More package includes a $200 nightly credit for stays in a guest room or a $500 nightly credit for stays in a suite. This resort’s amazing amenities include a 5-acre Explorer Island water park, the Tom Fazio golf course and an awardwinning, complimentary camp for children ages 4–12. While kids are entertained with different activities each day, parents can relax and unwind at the Oasis adult-only pool or at the spa. Guests can also enjoy “Dive In” movies at the family pool, the kid-friendly Par 3 golf course, supervised swim time for kids and more. Guests have a multitude of ways to spend their resort credit, including spa and salon treatments, golf, tennis, retail purchases and private cabana rentals. Credits can also be used on new in-room delivery offerings, such as the DIY Cocktail Kit and an in-room afternoon tea party service. PLAY Tip: Be sure to inquire about the weekday supervised schoolwork program for virtual learners — perfect for parents in need of a school-cation. To reserve, contact 1-800-267-3046 or book online at FourSeasons. com/orlando/offers.
Note: For physical distancing, characters at the weekly Goofy & Pals character breakfast do not stop by each table. 34 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2020
PLAY SEE/SAW
Mom's Morning Out: Quarantine Edition Photos by Jessica Friend This year PLAYGROUND Magazine partnered with AdventHealth for Children and Winter Park Village to celebrate local mothers. We asked our readers to nominate a mom who could use some extra self-care during these uncertain times. 50 lucky moms were selected to receive a Survival Kit of relaxation-inspired goodies: a 30-minute massage voucher, a VIP Pamper Day at Winter Park Village that included a gel manicure or deluxe pedicure appointment, plus shopping and dining discounts courtesy of AdventHealth for Children. And because mom'n ain't easy, each winner was allowed to invite a guest. Congratulations to all of the Quarantine Mama winners!
35 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2020
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The Bar Method technique is the fastest and most efficient way to reshape the entire body. The result is a graceful, strong body and a feeling of personal strength, confidence and poise. The fast pace of the class spikes the heart rate at different intervals to burn calories. It was created under the guidance of physical therapists to ensure it is safe and effective for all students. Our community is a welcoming and encouraging environment for all. Located in The Winter Park Village. Orlando-WinterPark.BarMethod.com 407-539-0099 • winterpark@barmethod.com
Lemongrass Spa Pamper yourself with a spa day at home this fall with some of our new fall scents! The earth provides us with so many natural, pampering ingredients to treat and protect the skin. Our products are handcrafted with healthy ingredients that heal, condition and pamper, such as nourishing butters, therapeutic essential oils, vitamin-enriched extracts and more. You’ll love reading our product labels because you can recognize what’s on the ingredient list! Emellie McKee, Senior Sales Consultant OurLemonGrassSpa.com/EMELLIEMCKEE
Perspire Sauna Studio is the nation’s first and largest infrared sauna and light therapy brand. The saunas are equipped with full-spectrum infrared heat waves that penetrate deep into the cells, joints, muscles and tissue, speeding oxygen flow and increasing circulation while removing impurities that build up over time. As the body is producing sweat and pumping blood, it is also burning calories (200-400 per session), which can enhance weight loss through regular use. Additionally, a 40-minute sauna session eliminates dead skin cells, helping with purification and leaving the skin glowing and immaculately clean. The private sauna suites feature color light therapy technology, smart TVs and a cold eucalyptus-infused towel. 1903 Aloma Ave., Suite A., Winter Park 407-794-6590 • PerspireSaunaStudio.com 36 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2020
BLOGGER SPOTLIGHT
Grateful. Words and photos by Sonni Abatta I always say my feet are bound to grow roots in this very spot. If there's one place I spend most of my waking hours in our entire house, it's the place you see to the left here — the tattered rug on the floor in front of our kitchen sink. Making toast. Cooking dinner. Washing dishes. Pivoting back and forth, back and forth, from range to sink to refrigerator to freezer again and again and again. Facing the kids, watching them on the barstools as they eat. It's the spot where I swear I notice the kids have grown since the night before — a little taller, their faces a little sharper — further from the round, smooth features of babies and speeding unforgivingly toward the big kids, teenagers, and adults they'll be. But they started here, small and soft, in this place where I watch them daily. I get teary here. I get frustrated here. I get overwhelmed here. Sometimes I'm at my worst, most harried self here. But then I remember the view from here — those three looking back at me. And then, I'm grateful. Grateful for this one unremarkable but beautiful spot.
SONNI ABATTA is the host of the podcast We Gotta Talk with Sonni, which is all about real talk on big issues. From motherhood, to relationships, to health and more, Sonni dives in weekly with guests on juicy topics with one goal — to inform you. Watch every Wednesday at 10 a.m. EST on Facebook.com/wegottatalk, or find the podcast by searching We Gotta Talk with Sonni on your platform of choice. More motherhood and beauty at Sonni.me and @SonniAbatta. 38 PLAYGROUND Oct / Nov 2020
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