SWFL Parent & Child Magazine - December 2017 by SWFL Parent & Child Magazine

DECEMBER 2017

S W F L PA R E N T C H I L D. C O M

Healthy Moms Healthy Babies Healthy Families

www.ppcswfl.com | 239.275.5522

Color the PPC Pals, then bring them into your doctor’s office where we will display them, or use to decorate in your own home.

www.ppcswfl.com | 239.275.5522 SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2017 » 3

Love & Learning:

Miguel Argumosa, DMD • Erin Taylor, DMD Nicole Eastham, DMD Board Certified Pediatric Dentists

The Growing Room Way

Three Locations To Serve You! CAPE CORAL

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9510 Bonita Beach Rd. Ste. 101

Infant Care 6 weeks through Preschool • After School program Kindergarten through 5th Grade

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1508 S.E. 12th Terrace

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Comprehensive dental care with state of the art facilities equipment for children and those with special healthcare needs All forms of sedation available: Nitrous, Oral, In office I.V. and Hospital Emergencies Welcome!

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www.swfl-pediatricdentistry.com Most Insurance Accepted

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Se Habla Español

More Nights! More Lights! December 8-23, December 26-30, 2017 and January 1-3, 2018: 6-9pm Make plans to join us for this holiday tradition, featuring spectacular light displays and festive entertainment as the Garden is transformed into a tropical winter wonderland. Advance tickets are required. Tickets on sale now at naplesgarden.org or in person at Naples Botanical Garden. For assistance, please call 239.325.1354.

NIGHT LIGHTS ADMISSION DECEMBER 8-14 Adults: $10 Members / $20 Non-Members Children (4-14): $5 Members / $10 Non-Members Children (3 and under): Free, ticket required

DECEMBER 15-JANUARY 3 Adults: $10 Members / $25 Non-Members Children (4-14): $5 Members / $15 Non-Members Children (3 and under): Free, ticket required

4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples, FL 239.643.7275

NAPLESGARDEN.ORG Top-rated TripAdvisor Attraction

SUPPORTING SPONSORS:

4 » DECEMBER 2017 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

MEDIA SPONSORS:

Sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture.

contents »

swfl

parent&child

Features

In Every Issue

27 child care for all

This Southwest Florida nonprofit helps local kids succeed in early education

25 teens There’s a new escape room — at the library

Kids get warts; here’s what a doctor can do about them

41 safety corner

18 in the kitchen

35 kids who give

How to prepare your child for a 911 call

Stress less with these quick gift ideas

Rather than simply receive, these kids give back to their Southwest Florida communities

47 travel

20 dining out

On the cover

Discover the unspoiled side of the Bahamas

Broadway Palm is cooking this holiday season

Gabriel and Victor Obregon, 3, of Naples, are the twin sons of Alan and Van Obregon.

.COM

Visit a life-size gingerbread house in Naples

17 ask the expert

From Snowfest to Breakfast with Santa, get the best family events of the holiday season

ENTCHILD

23 kid stuff

Think your kids are too old for holiday magic? Think again.

29 snow kidding

S W F L PA R

a mother’s view

57 voices

21 single parenting

Tips for choosing a preschool

Some dreams are best left to fade away DECEMBE

R 2017

58 a father’s view

22 youth sports

Model student surprise

PHOTO BY AMANDA INSCORE

Athletics can teach your child to give

Other Departments 7 8 11 13

editor’s note online me time 5 things

14 42 50 51

fyi family album around town calendar

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2017 » 5

MIROMAR OUTLETS

VOTED THE BEST SHOPPING MALL AND BEST FACTORY OUTLET MALL IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

DECEMBER EVENTS LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Saturdays from 1 to 7 p.m. Sundays from 2 to 5 p.m. Enjoy free live music every weekend with a variety of performers!

FAMILY YOGA WITH KATHRYN Saturday, December 16 10 a.m. in PLAYLAND A FREE 45-minute beginners’ yoga class, for families with toddlers to tweens. Bring your own mat.

CAR CRUISE-IN Sunday, December 3 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. near PLAYLAND See all the favorite makes and models of classic, exotic and custom cars.

MOMS APPRECIATION DAY Wednesday, December 20 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in PLAYLAND Moms receive a coupon for a free drink and treat from le macaron french pastries when you bring your kids to FREE Kids Crafts.

DOG DAZE AT MIROMAR Thursday, December 7 Enjoy pet-friendly specials and entertainment at participating stores and restaurants. SCIENCE SATURDAY Saturday, December 9 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in PLAYLAND Join Mr. Glen and his team and the Sylvan Learning Center for interactive science projects. CHRISTMAS COOKIE DECORATING Saturday, December 9 12 to 2 p.m. near PLAYLAND Kids can stop by the WARO-FM 94.5 cookie decorating stations for a special holiday treat they can make and eat! THE 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS Monday, December 11 thru Saturday, December 23 Holiday-themed social media contest. Prizes given away daily. Visit miromaroutlets.com FRIDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES Friday, December 15 6 to 9 p.m. in the Restaurant Piazza Enjoy the sounds of The Ex-Bachelors featuring the best of Motown, Memphis Soul & Rock ‘n Roll.

PHOTOS WITH SANTA Thru Saturday, December 23 In Suite 182 Make an everlasting memory and receive a photo with Santa at Miromar Outlets. Receive a Free 4x6 Photo with Santa. Go to MiromarOutlets.com KIDS DAY Saturday, December 30 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in PLAYLAND Kids from toddlers to twelve are invited to participate in fun activities. Kids will receive a free slice of pizza from Luna Pizza, a free kids’ cone from Dairy Queen/ Orange Julius, and a special offer to Mr. Pretzels, while supplies last. FREE KIDS CRAFTS Every Wednesday 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in PLAYLAND Kids from toddlers to twelve are invited to participate in fun activities. BABY BOOT CAMP Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday 9 a.m. in PLAYLAND FITNESS CAMP Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 6:30 a.m. in PLAYLAND

GIFT CARDS MAKE THE PERFECT

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6 » DECEMBER 2017 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

parent &child

editor's note »

swfl

S W F L PA R E N T C H I L D. C O M

Part of the USA TODAY Network

Volume 18, Issue 12 Dedicated to serving the families of Lee and Collier counties 2442 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33901 swflparentchild.com Annual subscriptions are $24.95 for shipping & handling. Email mcordero@fortmyer.gannett.com. President & Publisher William R. Barker General Manager Kathryn Robinson Kinsey kathryn@swflparentchild.com Editor Pamela Smith Hayford (239) 335-0448 pamela@swflparentchild.com Art Director Lindi Daywalt-Feazel

Editorial Contributors Laurie Anderson, Dr. A. Aurora Badia, Echo Copeland, Jim Dwyer, Rodrigo Gamboa-Dominguez, Randy Kambic, Kira Lewis, Janis B. Meredith, Ann M. O’Phelan, Francine Wolfe Schwartz, Andrea Stetson, Leigh Tahirovic, Jennifer Thomas Photographer Amanda Inscore Vice President/Advertising Sales Nancy M. Solliday Specialty Publications Team Coordinator Dennis Wright dennis@swflparentchild.com Advertising Account Executive Nicole Holey (239) 281-6455 nholey@fortmyer.gannett.com

Distribution (239) 335-0211 Southwest Florida Parent & Child is a FREE publication distributed at more than 500 locations throughout Southwest Florida by The News-Press Media Group. All rights reserved. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information published but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from omissions or errors. Any opinions expressed by writers and advertisers are not necessarily opinions of the magazine or publisher.

Member of

Thankful for big hearts

Just before Thanksgiving, my daughter wanted to participate in a Meals of Hope meal-packing event at her school. The idea is to get a bunch of people together in assembly lines to turn bulk foods into individually packaged meals that are eventually distributed to people in need. Our whole family went: me, my husband and both kids. So many people showed up that organizers had to make the kids take turns at the assembly lines. Challenger Middle School Principal Teri Cannady estimated about 150 kids. Every one of those kids gave up a Saturday morning to help others. Some came from as far away as LaBelle. It brought tears to my eyes. When I searched for children and teens who volunteer for this month’s feature, I was amazed by the response. Many, many children in our community have generous hearts, and we at SWFL Parent & Child are happy to share some of their stories, so much so that we’re considering adding a page Some 150 kids packed meals at the Meals to recognize such giving kids every of Hope event at Challenger Middle School month. I, for one, want to share more in Cape Coral. At top is my daughter, Riley, photos from the Meals of Hope event. and above, my son, Logan, fills a box with If you know a generous kid, send me packaged meals. a photo and tell me their story. Perhaps we can give them a little recognition in a future issue of SWFL Parent & Child. Our little ripples today can make big waves tomorrow. I learned just how at the Meals of Hope event. My husband and I were talking with one of my son’s past teachers at Challenger, Jeffery Wunderlich, and as we talked, he gave credit to Logan for starting a ripple that led to this wave. When my son attended middle school there, he tried to start an after-school club that would do good things for others. Hardly anyone came to the meetings, and it faded from memory. But Mr. Wunderlich told us Logan’s efforts got the ball rolling and eventually led to the school’s new civic-minded Builders Club, which organized the event. Everything we do has impact.

Pamela Smith Hayford, Editor Contact us: We enjoy hearing from you. Send your photos, letters or comments to: pamela@swflparentchild.com. Or visit us online:

swflparentchild.com

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2017 » 7

» online

swflparentchild.com Get the latest event information and family news every day at swflparentchild.com.

Tips for planning a family road trip

More family events

With the holidays coming up, that often means a road trip, and the family road trip gets a bad rap. Everyone’s cooped up in the family vehicle. On each other’s last nerve. But family road trips can be fun. Or at least not terrible. Just look for our road trip tips on swflparentchild.com.

We’re on Instagram!

Southwest Florida Parent & Child magazine is now on Instagram. Find us easily using the handle swflparentchild or #swflparentchild. See you there!

Like us at facebook. com/swflparentchild

On Pinterest at pinterest. com/swflparentchild

We highlight the best weekend events for you every week on swflparentchild. com, part of the USA Today Network. You’ll never be bored again.

HISTORY & SCIENCE CENTER

Virtual Fort Myers

The Past Meets the Present

As On n S ee

Travel Back to 1856 and Visit The Original “Fort Myers” as You Interact with the Environment Just like the Early Settlers.

2000 Cranford Ave, Fort Myers 239.321.7420 www.i-sci.org Tue – Sat: 10 to 5, Sun: 12 to 5 8 » DECEMBER 2017 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

5OFF

REGULAR ADMISSION FOR A PARTY WITH 3 OR MORE GUESTS. ONE COUPON PER PARTY.

CODE: P&C17

Kira Lewis of Cape Coral is mom to two children, a writer and founder of calmandchaosmama.com and sunshineandhurricanes.com.

a mother’s view »

K IR A LE WIS

Missing the magic As the kids grow older, the shine of the holidays wanes. But it’s still there. You just have to look for it.

GETTYIMAGES.COM

e finally reached the year when the Santa “secret” is out for both my kids. They’ve outgrown the novelty of waking up to see where that devious little elf has hidden himself this time. And who can blame them? After almost 11 years, this mama has pretty much exhausted her elfing ingenuity, and can we all admit, he’s kinda creepy anyway. The Target toy catalog arrived in the mail, and there was no knock down, drag out fight to the death over it. My oldest didn’t show even a flicker of interest, and my youngest half-heartedly paged through it before she discarded it in favor of the latest volume of Harry Potter she’s reading. I even got democratically overruled by my entire household when I dared to start playing Christmas music before Thanksgiving. Typically, it would have been their father pleading for a reprieve, while the rest of us responded to his objections by belting out the lyrics at an ever louder volume. But they’ve swapped allegiances, now that a hippopotamus and their two front teeth really aren’t at the top of their Christmas lists.

Not even Rudolph and Frosty are safe, as my children have declared the classic Christmas specials too cheesy to tolerate. I know that this is only a stage they are going through and that they’ll rediscover the charm of these timeless Christmas characters again one day. But it does make me a bit sad to see those eyes that once twinkled with delight for the entire month of December now reserved mostly for adolescent eye rolling. Christmas definitely isn’t the same in our house anymore. However, I’m learning that even big kids are still kids. Just because they’ve reached an age where the shine has worn off a bit, doesn’t mean that they no longer believe in the magic of Christmas. As with all things as our children grow up, there is always an element of letting go. While I can’t cling to my sugarplum visions of Christmases past, my children still need and want the comfort that comes with the consistency of holiday traditions and time spent together as a family. It just looks a little different than it used to. The days are gone when they proudly present me with homemade ornaments made at school, but they happily reminisce over ones from years ago as they

pull them from the storage bins and hang them on the tree. Cuddling on the couch and watching animated specials has been swapped out for the sarcastic and silly live action of Buddy the Elf and Ralphie’s ridiculous BB gun and bunny pajamas. The baking and the decorating of cutout cookies falls more on my shoulders, but the kids are quite content to hang out with me in the kitchen, eating them as I go and sipping on cups of hot cocoa. I can even talk them into some mini-marshmallows on top. Oh, and I did catch my teen humming a few lines of “Santa Got Run Over by a Reindeer” as he walked out the door to soccer practice the other day. It’s certainly not a favorite, but I’ll take it. Yes, I miss the cute, round, pinkflushed faces filled with anticipation and wonder that used to come with this time of year. I miss footed Christmas jammies, mile-long lists to Santa and the oohs and aahs heard from the backseat when we passed houses all lit up for the season. But all of us hold a piece of our childhood Christmases in our hearts forever. It’s not something you can ever fully outgrow, and that is what makes it truly magical.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2017 » 9

10 » DECEMBER 2017 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

me time »

COOL

Surprise them Add surprise messages to your gifts with the Scratch & Reveal Gift Tag Kit by Celebrate It. $4.99 for 12 tags at Michaels.

WRAPPINGS Step up your presentation this year with these stylish gift wrapping options.

Sack the paper Fill this Reindeer Mail canvas sack with toys for the little ones in your life and watch their eyes light up. Each bag can be personalized and has a red braided drawstring. The bag measures 30.5 inches by 20.5 inches. $26.99 (includes personalization) at bedbathandbeyond.com.

Box it up

Put yourself into it

DATE

NIGHT

Everyone will know which gift is from your family with Shutterfly’s personalized gift wrap. In addition to photos, you can add your family name or monogram. Each roll is 2.5 feet wide and comes in 6-foot and 10-foot lengths. $19.99-$24.99 at shutterfly.com.

Give your adult coloring time dual purpose — or, better yet, give your kids this task (it’ll keep them busy for hours) — by coloring your own gift boxes. Each page in the coloring book “Gift Boxes to Decorate and Make: Christmas” by Nosy Crow and illustrator Sarah Walsh is a different box with a different design, 24 in all with stickers to seal them. $15.99 list price on amazon.com.

The weather is beautiful, and the streets of downtown Fort Myers, Naples and Punta Gorda are all lit up for the holidays. It’s the perfect time of year for an intimate dinner downtown followed by a stroll under the twinkling lights of the season. The possibilities are endless. Check news-press.com/taste for Fort Myers restaurant reviews and naplesnews.com/entertainment/restaurants for the best in Naples.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2017 » 11

« briefs

Cape Coral toy inventor featured on 'The Toy Box'

Not for profit, 501 (c)3 organization

mainstreetsmiles.com Ft. Myers Cape Coral Naples

Braces Special

Children’s Special

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12 » DECEMBER 2017 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

The toy business is a tough industry to crack. Cape Coral toy designer Heidi Larson and her creation Secret Drawing Dogs made it to the November 12 showing of “The Toy Box.” The Secret Drawing Dogs are stuffed animals with a secret: The noses conceal a pen, and their bellies hide a notebook. While the young judges — a panel of five kids — voted not to move her toy to the next phase of the competition, getting on the show is an accomplishment and could lead to bigger things for this local mom. Heidi, mother of 8-year-old Taylor Coates, has been designing toys for about four years and pitching them to toy companies across the country. She told The NewsPress she wasn’t too upset about getting voted off the show, because she has other toys in development, and maybe one of those will take off. “We’ll see,” she said. In mid-November she took her ideas to the Chicago Toy & Game Fair. “The Toy Box” episode was filmed in June in Los Angeles, and Larson said she’s developed friendships with several of the toy designers she met on the show. “It was a fun experience,” Larson said, “regardless of the outcome.”

H&M Kids opens shop in Estero Hennes and Mauritz Inc. is opening a 23,000-square-foot store at Miromar Outlets in Estero complete with the H&M Kids collection. The men’s and women’s clothing line set an opening for noon December 1 with lots of giveaways. The store is also kicking off its 2017 holiday campaign with a film starting Nicki Minaj, Jesse Williams and John Turturro. A modern take on the classic fairytale, the film tells the story of a heroic little girl who tracks down the evil brother of Santa Claus to save the holiday season.

5 things »

Extraordinary

STOCKING ‘Alexa, find Darth Vader’ Let the Force help your kids find their stuff. The new foundmi collectible Bluetooth tracker keeps track of just about anything — laptops, wallets, tablets — anything attached to these cute little guys and gals. Available in 18 characters from Star Wars, DC Comics and Marvel. Apple- and Android-compatible. $25. Free shipping from foundmi.com.

STUFFERS Add a little something different to their stockings this year.

Book and a show Slip a copy of “The Secret Garden” by Frances Hodgson Burnett into your child’s stocking. Then follow it up with tickets to the TheatreZone production in February based on the popular children’s book. When your child sees the story come to life on stage, a connection will form that’s sure to foster a love of reading. This Barnes & Noble Collectible Edition with bonded leather hardcover sells for $10-$20 on barnesandnoble.com and amazon.com. For tickets and details about the show, visit theatrezone-florida.com.

Creative kitsch For that aspiring writer or artist who hungers for a creative outlet, give this Donut Notebook and Pom Pen Set from Capelli New York. $12 at nordsrom.com.

Super eye savers With all the time our kids spend on devices, whether texting on a phone or doing homework on a Chromebook, we worry about our kids’ eyes. Splendenti Eyewear created these nonprescription computer glasses in superhero and gamer themes for kids ages 5 and older. They’re designed to reduce eye strain while increasing contrast, comfort and focus. 100 percent UV400 protection. $47.88-$52.88 on splendentieyewear.com and amazon.com.

Make bath time fun These cuddly characters have a soap pocket that allows them to become sudsy terry cloth wash clothes. Just add soap and water. It’s sure to make bath time a lot more fun. $9.99 at soapsoxkids.com.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2017 » 13

« fyi Too much stuff ? It’s like Amazon.com in reverse. You pack up a box of stuff, and Box It To Me (boxittome.com) takes it away until you want it back. This new valet storage company opened in Naples this fall and covers not only Naples, but also Fort Myers, Bonita Springs and Estero. Rates start at $7 and include free use of a plastic storage box, free pickup, storage and return delivery. Return deliveries are made within 48 hours of request, with rush delivery available.

Orange Jeep celebrates postIrma recovery with BOGO Orange Jeep Tours (orangejeeptours.com) closed temporarily after Hurricane Irma damaged trails. Now that they’re open again, they’re offering buy-one-get-one-free tours through December 31. “Our trails are fully operational and in great condition thanks to the hard work of our team members,” says adventure guide Mike Sullivan.

Fabulous laboratory coming soon The IMAG History & Science Center and the Edison Inventors Association announced that they’re working together to create a Fab Lab in Fort Myers. Fab Lab is short for “fabrication laboratory,” and the concept captivates the imaginations of kids and adults alike. At a Fab Lab, you can make almost anything. There are usually 3D printers and laser cutters and other computer-controlled devices that help people make just about anything. And it’s a great opportunity for exploring STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).

Teen Acting Company cast from “Into the Woods.”

Gulfshore Playhouse looking for teen actors Gulfshore Playhouse is holding auditions for its Teen Acting Company on December 3 and 4. After months of training and rehearsing, the troupe for ages 13-18 will perform William Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” in May. To sign up for an audition between 6 and 8 p.m. on either of those dates, call 239-261-7529 ext. 207. Tuition for the Teen Acting Company is $600 and includes attendance at all Gulfshore Playhouse shows. Some scholarships are available. For details, email HKamin@gulfshoreplayhouse.org or visit gulfshoreplayhouse.org.

Learn about Florida Virtual School Want to know more about attending Florida Virtual School full time? The program is holding an online information session at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, December 5. Parents can learn about the curriculum, ask questions and explore the program online at flvsft.com.

14 » DECEMBER 2017 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

Family resource center opens in Immokalee The Guadalupe Center in Immokalee celebrated the opening of the Amy Moglia Heuerman Family Resource Center in the Lipman Library on November 13. Philanthropist and children’s author Amy Moglia Heuerman’s birthday wish was to provide families with better access to books and learning. She spent nearly three months creating a “Secret Garden within the Lipman Library,” a 30-foot mural leading into the library, where carpenters added two large arbors with lattice trim. Other additions included computer stations, new flooring and bookshelves, tables and chairs, and a large garden run.

Writer and rabbit encourage reading with new book An established writer in Southwest Florida (and contributor to SWFL Parent & Child), Andrea Stetson recently released her first book, “Lexi Lop and the Best Library Book Ever,” the first in a series of books about a young English lop rabbit. In this first tale, Lexi must go to great lengths to find her favorite book. The real life Lexi is also helping Andrea promote the books at signings in Southwest Florida, and Andrea’s English lop rabbits are the stars of the Read to Rabbits program where kids get to read books to the rabbits. A portion of sales goes toward free books for the children of the Gargiulo Education Center in North Naples. Get details at lexilop.com.

Giant cabbage nets kid $1,000 Yes, dear, you can grow a giant cabbage in Florida. Ethan Jones of Yulee (near Jacksonville) grew a 21.6-pound beauty and won a $1,000 savings bond from Bonnie Plants for his education. More than 40,000 children from throughout the state competed in the contest. Bonnie Plants gives free O.S. Cross, or oversized, cabbage plants to third-grade classrooms who sign up at bonniecabbageprogram.com. The company also offers growing advice. Some cabbages have tipped the scales at 40 pounds. Sign up now to compete in 2018.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2017 » 15

FREE PRESCHOOL Early Learning Coalition of SWFL can help your family with Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten If you live in Florida & your child turns 4 YEARS OLD by September 1, your child is eligible for the VPK program. Some 5 year olds are also eligible. For more information & to register your child: FamilyServicesFloridaEarlyLearning.com

www.elcofswfl.org Serving Collier, Glades, Hendry & Lee Counties | (239) 935-6100

« fyi

(continued)

Happiest place on Earth isn’t Orlando The Naples-Immokalee-Marco Island area was named among the Top 25 Happiest Cities in the United States this fall by National Geographic, Gallup and New York Times best-selling author and National Geographic Explorer Dan Buettner. The region ranked No. 11. The only other Florida region on the list was North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton, which came in at No. 14. The rankings were based on The National Geographic/Blue Zones Index, which measures civic engagement, walkability and healthy food options. Boulder, Colorado, was No. 1.

Museum of Ice Cream opens in Miami Technically, the Museum of Ice Cream isn’t a museum or a nonprofit in the way that you think of museums like the Smithsonian. However, there is ice cream — and plenty of eye candy. Perhaps you’ve seen the somewhat famous photo of the sprinkles pool. Its creators bill the MOIC as a place to bring people together through art, design and innovation. So if you’re heading to Miami anytime soon, consider a visit to the Museum of Ice Cream (museumoficecream.com) at 3400 Collins Ave., Miami. Opening day is December 13. Tickets are $38 (free for children younger than 3), and they must be purchased in advance.

Winter Break Camp! Join us for some action packed fun

•Trampoline, movies, crafts, games, bounce house and TWO full gymnastics classes a day

• Regular hours from 9am to 3pm

Only $135 or come for a day at $55

•Extended day is 7:30am to 6pm Only $155 or one day is $60

•Week 1: Tuesday, Dec 26th to Dec 29th •Week 2: Jan 2nd to Jan 5th. Bring a lunch, and we will provide a snack

CenturyLink offers grants for teachers The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools and The CenturyLink Clarke M. Williams Foundation are offering Teachers and Technology grants, from prekindergarten to 12th grade, to help bring technology into their classrooms. Each grant is up to $5,000. To apply, teachers visit centurylink.com/teachersandtechnology and complete an online application by January 12.

16 » DECEMBER 2017 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

ask the expert »

Dr. A. Aurora Badia, a board-certified pediatric dermatologist, opened the Florida Skin Center in Fort Myers in 2001. The center now has offices in Fort Myers, Cape Coral and Lehigh Acres. Get details at floridaskincenter.com.

DR . A . AUROR A BA DIA

Eradicating

WARTS requires patience

There are many options for treating this condition, and all take time.

arts, or verruca vulgaris, are a common and bothersome diagnosis that affects many children. The Human Papilloma Virus causes these lesions and can be acquired through direct skin contact. A condition like eczema that compromises the skin barrier makes a person even more susceptible to warts. The medical providers at our office see warts nearly every day. There are several options for treating them. First, we’ll talk with you about reducing the spread of the warts to other parts of the body by controlling the child’s temptation to scratch or pick at the wart. Treatment options include liquid nitrogen, Canthacur, topical Imiquimod cream, vascular laser and oral vitamins. Liquid nitrogen is a cold spray that treats the lesion locally by creating a controlled injury to stimulate the immune system to attack the wart. This treatment

will likely need to be repeated every two to three weeks until resolved. Due to the discomfort that the liquid nitrogen may cause, some parents will opt for a less aggressive path, such as Canthacur. Canthacur is a liquid that contains beetle extract and salicylic acid, which creates an allergic reaction and allows the body to fight the wart more effectively. This topical medication will be applied in the office and washed off after a few hours. The liquid can be reapplied every three to four weeks until resolved. Imiquimod is a cream that the parent may apply at home, usually three times a week. This cream, as the other treatments, creates a response in the body that allows it to fight the virus. Although this is a great approach for parents who can’t bring their children into the office multiple times a month, it may be a pricier option than others, because often insurance does not cover the medication. An alternative to treating the lesion

topically is a vascular laser called V-beam. The function of the vascular laser in the treatment of warts is to cut off the blood supply that feeds the lesion. Multiple treatments will be required, just as with all the treatment options, and it may need to be repeated every two weeks. With most of the approaches mentioned, one should expect the child’s wart to blister, which may be pierced with a sterile needle if it precludes the child from daily activities. In order to boost the immune system and supplement the main treatments, an over-the-counter Zinc supplement of 50 milligrams daily is recommended. Studies have shown that the supplement indeed helps the body fight the wart virus. It is typically advised that the pill is taken with food, as it could upset the stomach. With any treatment, warts can be stubborn and require patience from the parents and children to treat.

ASK THE EXPERT We welcome questions from readers. Ask us anything. We’ll find the answer. Send your question to editor@swflparentchild.com with “Ask the Expert” in the subject line.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2017 » 17

Francine Wolfe Schwartz is a food and consumer product consultant in Southwest Florida.

in the kitchen »

FR A NCINE WOLFE SCH WA RTZ

GIVE THE GIFT OF

LESS STRESS

Need a quick gift? Here are two easy options. Make one to give and one to indulge yourself.

18 » DECEMBER 2017 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

ings in magazines or on TV talk shows: Don’t overextend yourself financially on gift giving. Don’t place unrealistic goals on your time. And then there’s the adamant warning that the holidays aren’t about materialism, etc. Honestly we read it or hear it, and most of us never pay attention to the advice. We just continue piling more onto our plate of to-dos with more things we really seem to think we have to do. Here’s a shock: I’m going to take my own advice. Traditionally my December column features numerous quick and easy recipes of sweet or savory treats you can make in your kitchen. Not happening this year. I’m not going to panic, and I hope you’ll buy into the idea, too. I am going to “stop and smell the roses,” think of myself first with a small gift of appreciation of who I am, then give a gift of something truly made from the heart to someone who needs to “stop and smell the roses,” too. You. And if you need a quick gift at the last minute, here are two beyond simple ideas.

Lemon Foot Soak A perfect stress buster for achy feet

INGREDIENTS

until smooth. Pour foot soak into two 12-ounce bottles with a screw cap.

» 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

To use: Pour mixture into a tub or deep pan. Soak your feet as long as desired. Wash your feet with warm water and mild soap. Rinse and pat dry. Keep soak refrigerated until ready to use. CAUTION: Oil may cause tub or shower to be slippery.

» 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice » 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves » 1/4 cup olive or canola oil » 1/2 cup low-fat milk

DIRECTIONS Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend

SOURCE: tasteofhome.com

GETTY IMAGES

can’t decide whether to call 2017 a crazy year or the year that nearly drove me crazy. On many fronts I bet you feel just like me with an overwhelming desire to scrap everything left on your plate of to-dos, forget adding to this already piled high plate, forget writing more lists of to-dos for the holiday season and immediately turn the calendar to January 1, 2018. If there ever was a year, it’s this one that we need to feel and share the “holiday spirit” not only with family and friends but by being kinder to ourselves in the midst of what seems like endless chaos. Consider the pre-flight safety directions given by flight attendants before take-off that advise you to place your oxygen mask over your nose and mouth before helping others do the same. When you’re flying, it seems pretty obvious why. But once our feet are planted on the ground, we forget this really good advice of taking care of ourselves first before others. This isn’t earth-shattering news. There are always warn-

Bonus gift idea:

Decadent Hot Chocolate Mix If dark chocolate in small amounts is good for your heart, then the combination of calming warm milk and chocolate has got to be a stress buster for sure. Makes: about 13/4 cups mix, enough for 9 cups; packs up well in a 2-cup jar Prep time: Seriously, like 10 minutes

INGREDIENTS » 1/2 cup sugar

» 1 tablespoon cornstarch » 3 ounces semior bittersweet chocolate, roughly chopped » 1/2 cup cocoa powder, pure not cocoa mix » 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract or the seeds from a tiny segment of fresh vanilla bean » 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt

DIRECTIONS Combine all ingredients in a food processor and blend until powdery. Don’t have a food processor? Chop or grate the chocolate until it is as fine as you can get it, and stir it into the remaining ingredients. Mixture keeps in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 months.

Directions to include with your gift Heat one cup of milk (coconut, almond or others would work here, too) in a saucepan over medium heat until steamy. Add 3 tablespoons hot cocoa mix. Whisk over heat for another

minute or two, until it begins to simmer and mix is completely dissolved. Pour into mug, top with mini-marshmallows or a dollop of whipped cream or any of your favorite hot chocolate toppings.

Tip: Pack up a portion size of this mixture in a resealable plastic bag, plastic container or a canning jar, and then gift wrap whatever way is easiest for you. A cutesy mug or tag is not necessary for this to be a really appreciated gift from you. SOURCE: Adapted from “Cook’s Illustrated” for the Smitten Kitchen blog at smittenkitchen.com

One of the best gifts (and easiest to wrap) is a gift certificate for a spa treatment at a budgetfriendly spa, like the Florida Gulf Coast University Spa Lab, www2.fgcu.edu/CoB/ SpaLab. They’re learning and you’re indulging. For details, contact the Resort & Hospitality Management Spa Lab, Herbert J. Sugden Hall, Suite 201, 10501 FGCU Blvd. S., Fort Myers; 239-590-1295 or RHMSpaLab@fgcu. edu. There are several commercial massage schools in our area that offer discounted spa treatments, too. To find one near you, search online for “massage schools [your city].”

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2017 » 19

« dining out

DINNER AND A

SHOW

The Broadway Palm recreates an old classic. STORY BY ANN M. O’PHELAN

H ht: “Jingle ARRG From left to rig Pirate s m ta ris Ch a : the Way urious George Adventure”; “C eatball”; “A M n de and the Gol y” Christmas Stor

ne might be hardpressed to find someone who doesn’t love Curious George. That rambunctious little monkey, along with The Man with the Yellow Hat, have long taken story followers on adventurous journeys and back again. The Broadway Palm’s Children’s Theatre recently presented “Curious George and the Golden Meatball.” My family and I, being big fans of Curious George, attended one of the Saturday afternoon shows ($19 for all ages). It was about an All-You-Can-Eat-Meatball Day that took Curious George all the way to Rome with The Man with the Yellow Hat following closely behind. The show was a lot of fun. It entertained and engaged the audience and even included a question-andanswer session at the end where the youngest audience members got to

20 » DECEMBER 2017 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

ask poignant questions, such as: Why is the man wearing a yellow hat? What the Broadway Palm also knows how to do well is feed guests a tasty and healthy meal. The day we went, there were make-your-own tacos, vegetables, a salad bar and a delicious dessert spread. The dinner also included a drink. Now the holiday season is here, and, as always, Broadway Palm has shows that are perfect for the season. The Children’s Theatre offers “Jingle ARRGH the Way: a Christmas Pirate Adventure,” while the Main Theatre presents “A Christmas Story.” Although the Children’s Theatre is geared toward children, the whole family can also enjoy many of Broadway Palm’s main theater productions, such as “My Fair Lady,” April 12-May 19, and “Annie,” June 28-August 11. We plan to make it to one of the holiday shows, and someone on our gift list is going to get a gift certificate.

Broadway Palm Location: 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers Phone: 239-278-4422 Online: broadwaypalm.com Hours: Times and dates vary by show. The December children’s production, “Jingle ARRGH the Way,” starts with lunch at noon and show at 1 p.m. December 2, 10, 16, 22 and 24. For main stage shows, hours are typically 5:30 p.m. dinner and 7 p.m. show on Sundays, 5:30 dinner and 7:30 show Tuesday-Saturday, and matinees are often at 1:15 p.m. with lunch served at 11:45 a.m. Price range: Children’s theater tickets are $19 for all ages and include lunch and show; main stage dinner and show tickets are $30 for ages 12 and younger and $60-$70 for adults. Show-only tickets are also available. Kids’ menu: The children’s theater features kid-friendly favorites on the buffet. Includes main course, salad, drink and dessert. Tips: Gift certificates are available, and there’s a gift shop.

Echo Copeland is a single mom who lives in Southwest Florida.

single parenting » ECHO COPEL A ND

Some dreams must die Let’s face it, if you’re in your 40s, playing for the NBA probably isn’t in your future.

all it women’s intuition or the gift of premonition, but something didn’t feel right. This time, I was keenly aware of the sensation of dread that came over me when he asked me to get married. Something wasn’t right. And so, I let go of the man who I thought would have — finally — made all my dreams come true. In every life, there must come the time when we have to let go of some of our dreams. Particularly those that may end up being detrimental in our lives later. For me, my daughter is here. We decided to cut back on some of our activities to spend more time doing what really matters most. I realize it will be only a matter of moments (about five years) before my child goes to college. My energy is renewed as I think that before you know it, I will be an empty nester. There will be no more children for me, none biological at least. My daughter will more than likely get to her adult years never having had a stepdad or active father at home. I make peace with that as I end another year. My dreams are now more manageable and more controllable. No, if you’re in your 40s, you probably won’t play for the NBA. The neurosurgeon I had long dreamed I would be (working alongside Ben Carson, of course) will never come to fruition. Here is what I deem doable dreams: to work hard and leave a legacy behind for my child, to help as many as I can, without pomp and fanfare, to humbly do as God would have me do, and all the while, to

take care of myself and change the habits that so easily beset me. For me, as a single parent, encouragement comes from knowing that I can only control myself, and that is definitely doable. I no longer crave what I did even earlier this very year. I see my limits and shortcomings, and yes, I embrace each one, for it makes me genuinely human. It makes me my child’s mom. And that’s all the joy I need. Well, that is, until next time (ha ha!). The end of the year gives us, again, a sense of pause and the reminder to choose how we spend our time wisely, for there is not too much of it. I won’t preach to you about what you should do with your life. What I will do is what I feel that I always try to do, console you and let you know that you, single parent, are not alone. The adage, “Life is what you make it,” applies to you as well. Make it spectacular. It doesn’t have to fit the mold of what you think others want your life to be. You no longer have to fight to strive for the type of life you thought you should have been living. All you have to do is be true to the you you are now. Let go of dreams that make you feel guilty or down on yourself or that will take too much of your precious time, only to disappoint you and not live up to your expectations. We all make mistakes, just look at this year alone. Have you made mistakes that you thought you were too smart to make? Have you found yourself still not learning from the past? Restructure your life, friends. A new year awaits. New possibilities abound. They really do.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2017 » 21

« youth sports

GETTY IMAGES

JA NIS B. MER EDIT H

Janis B. Meredith, a coach’s wife for 29 years and sports mom for 21 years, lives in Alva, where she writes about character in youth sports on JBMThinks.com.

Use sports to teach your child to give

n a season where kids are enamored with receiving presents, it’s a challenge for parents to help them focus on giving, instead of getting. Sports parents have a unique opportunity to teach kids about giving. As you enjoy the holiday season, be intentional about creating opportunities for your child to give. Here are a few ideas: » Serve as a team. Organize a serving opportunity for your child’s team. I’ll never forget the Christmas we took our family downtown to feed breakfast to the homeless, before we opened our own presents. What an amazing perspective that brought to our day. » Adopt a family. Have the team

22 » DECEMBER 2017 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

adopt a needy family and shower them with gifts. » Secret Santa service. Have team members draw names for Secret Santa gifts and then make it a requirement that the gifts are acts of service. » Needy Neighbors. Have your kids pick out one or two needy neighbors that could use some help in the yard or around the house. Those couple of afternoons will bring a smile to the neighbor’s face and fill your child with the joy of helping. » Bless the coach. Coaches are often underappreciated and overworked. How about blessing them this holiday? Organize a cleanup day at their yard, help with a special home project, treat their family to dinner where you ex-

press your appreciation. I promise you that it will make their day. » Choose a Secret Santa team. Pick another team in your league and have each child on your team bring a small gift for a child on the other team. Deliver the gifts anonymously or just as a surprise from your team. » Carol as a team. Revive this old-fashioned tradition as a team. It will absolutely brighten folks’ night. Have the team wear their jerseys so they can proudly represent. As you look for ways to teach your kids to give, remember that giving shouldn’t be a drudgery; it should be fun. Learning to give with joy will be a lifelong blessing to them, as well as to those around them.

kid stuff »

A REAL

GINGERBREAD HOUSE Every inch of the gingerbread house is covered in candy and gingerbread.

Residents love to visit The RitzCarlton, Naples to get a look at this annual holiday delight. STORY BY ANDREA STETSON

PHOTOS BY ANDREA STETSON

Dan and Mary Ellen Schultz and their children, Davy, 13, Sarah, 15, and Timmy, 12, ran in the Turkey Trot in Cape Coral.

ore than 100,000 pieces of colorful candy and 2,000 pounds of carved gingerbread cover every inch of the enormous gingerbread house that towers over guests in the lobby of The Ritz-Carlton, Naples. It’s been an annual tradition for more than 25 years, and each year new elements are added to the Swiss chalet-like edifice. “We have a big change,” says Executive Pastry Chef Sebastien Thieffine. “We are going to have a porch. The porch will have a step and then the patio and a fence and the columns to hold the piece of the roof.” The roof will have more angles than in years past and will have a lot more snow on top. The entire structure is more than 12 feet long, 9 feet wide and 13 feet high. It takes 600 hours of work to make the gingerbread and decorate and another 200 hours to construct the framework. This is Sebastien’s 10th year overseeing the masterpiece. “I love it,” he exclaims. “This year we are all very excited. We are excited every year. It’s great to see the kids’ faces when they see it.”

IF YOU GO GINGERBREAD HOUSE

When: Always open through New Year’s Day • Where: The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, 280 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples • Cost: Free • For details: 239-598-3300

TEDDY BEAR TEA A storyteller reads children’s favorites. The little ones enjoy hot

chocolate, the adults aromatic teas. There are sweet treats, and a visit from Saint Nick and Mrs. Claus. • When: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. and 2:30-4 p.m. December 9, 10, 16, 17, 20-23, and 2:30-4 p.m. December 18 and 19 • Where: The Ritz-Carlton Naples, 280 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples • Cost: $65 • For details: 239-598-6644 (reservations required)

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2017 » 23

« kid stuff (continued)

Also new this year are holiday jelly beans that are like candy corn. Sebastien also added gold, silver, black and red chocolate stars wrapped in foil. That’s in addition to all the other candy and treats: gumdrops, licorice wheels, black and red raspberry candies, giant lollipops, chocolate stones, pretzels dipped in white, green and red, candy canes, red and white mints, sugar sticks, French macaroons, gumballs, sour candies and giant Hershey’s Kisses. There is also 300 pounds of icing on the chalet. The treats also adorn a mailbox where children can leave letters for Santa. Candies cover a rocking chair inside the house. There will be a cobblestone chimney made of gingerbread and frosting. Lollipops in a rainbow swirl of colors stick up

from the ground around the house like flowers in a kaleidoscope of color. Kylie Eaton, 10, remembers going to see the gingerbread house with her family last Christmas. “It was really, really big,” she says. “They made it look like a real house. It was pretty cool that they made it out of candy.” Her younger sister, Madi, 7, remembers what she liked best. “The sled with chocolate,” she says. “That was my favorite.” Their mother, Cassy Eaton, enjoyed it just as much as the girls. “I thought it was beautiful,” Cassy says. “I think it is really amazing how many different types of candy they put on there.” Sebastien starts planning the gingerbread house as soon as the one

now open!

from the previous year comes down. He brainstorms with the staff for new ideas. Candy is ordered in September. That’s also when he and his staff begin rolling out and cutting the gingerbread. “Little by little, when we have free time, we roll some bricks and shingles,” he says. Gabrielle O’Boyle, a spokesperson for The Ritz-Carlton Resorts of Naples, says it’s not just children who enjoy seeing the gingerbread house — adults love it, too. “It is a great welcoming feature for all our guests and for everyone,” she says. “The gingerbread house is for both Ritz-Carlton guests and the public to enjoy. We welcome locals. We have some local guests that just come by to the see mastery of the house itself.”

Come meet these playful African Penguins before they’re gone! At Naples Zoo from November 15, 2017 through April 15, 2018.

PENGUINS IN

PARADISE

these birds ARE ONLY in town until APRIL 15! 24 » DECEMBER 2017 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

NAPLESZOO.ORG 239.262.5409

teens »

THE LIBRARY Students explore new teen area at library escape room event. STORY AND PHOTOS BY ANDREA STETSON

ozens of teens and preteens lined up to escape from the library this fall. It was all part of an “escape room” event aimed at introducing them to the new teen room at the regional headquarters library in Collier County. “We have made significant changes at the Collier County Public Library to address our community needs, specifically our young adults’ needs,” says Rose LaBarge, senior librarian. “We discovered from our community assessment last year that our 18 and younger age group would like more books, resources, quiet spaces and computers.” So the library took a room that housed audio equipment and CDs and turned it into a room just for teens and preteens. The room features blue bean bag chairs, bright green cushioned chairs, computers and a maker station. At the maker station, students can do beading and chalk art, color, sew, make posters and create shadow boxes. There are board games to play. There’s also a

place to plant, cultivate and grow small plants. Of course the room is also filled with books for that age group. Rose says a considerable amount of young adult material was added to the library collection, including an additional 222 new graphic novels. “Graphic novels have just exploded,” Rose says. “It involves visual and reading, which is why it is so appealing.” I stopped by the library in October to see what the kids think. “It’s super cool,” said Landon Turner, 11. “Then you don’t have to go to the kids’ section and spend half an hour searching for books that are your style. I think it’s great.” “We actually come here a lot,” said his mother, Monica Turner. “I like this. It is having somewhere for them to come that is safe and their own kind of thing.” Mya Punte, 12, was excited to see the maker station. “I like arts and crafts,” she said. “I like bean bags. I like computers. I like to play games. That’s so cool.”

Landon Turner and Josh Gersbach, both 11, unlock a case to leave the escape room at the Collier County Public Library headquarters branch in Naples

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2017 » 25

« teens (continued) The library recently turned the teen room into an escape room for a day and even added a second escape room. During these events, the students must solve puzzles, riddles and math problems to escape the room in 15 minutes. Long lines formed at each of the events. It was a way of luring teens into the library to see what the new teen area has to offer. “It was cool, but it was hard,” says Josh Gersbach, 11. The teen room activities often originate from teens themselves. Kaitlyn Kugel, 17, participates in a program that employs teens at the library. She helps plan the activities and expects to add regular escape room events throughout the year. “I was planning on doing library-related ones with ULTRASOUND BABY MATINEE library names, putting books in order, hiding things in library books,” Kaitlyn says. “It would be centered around • R.D.M.S. Certiﬁed Technicians the library.” • Evening and Weekend Appointments Available Kaitlyn is also excited to have the room for teens there. • Friends and Family Welcome “It is pretty cool,” she says. “I came to this library a lot, and we didn’t have a teen room, so having a teen room is really cool. It allows teens to come in and work on their 239.274.7743 work, and it is a room just for them.” Library teen rooms are not a new idea. There has been 9021 Park Royal Drive Fort Myers one at the Northwest Regional Library in Cape Coral for many years. That elaborate teen room has a café section, www.ppcswﬂ.com two huge counters with 24 computers and an area with big round tables filled with arts and crafts. An outside patio ofThe only choice fers another gathering place. “We have an art space so teens can come in after school and create something,” says Amy McWilliam, senior librarian of youth services at Northwest Regional. “We have a giant chess set that also has checkers and that is played every day. The giant chess is the biggest hit. We put the Est. 1975 Xbox out, and we have gaming.” The library received a grant from the Cape Coral Police Department to enhance the maker space. There are also lots of board games. The teen book collection Come Join Our Family of Dancers is extensive, and they have a large graphics collection, Tap • Jazz • Hip Hop • Lyrical • Ballet • Pointe which is quite popular. Musical Theater • Acrobatics • Contortion • Circus Equipment Amy says the teens also like Brain Flakes. “They are tiny discs that look like ears and fit into one another so they can build with it,” she explains. “We also have a button maker. They love the button maker. Weathave JROTC students Islanda music keyboard. Some kids like to learn or Coast High School in Cape practice the piano. It is really cool.” Coral warm upThe before computers are another attraction, but more for Raider practice. fun than for school work. “We do have lots of computers, but a lot of kids are working on their Chromebooks,” Amy says. “But they will use the computers for gaming, because the broadband is better than they have at home, and they will sit next to each other and play. It is nice, because a lot of the kids are coming after school. It is a safe space. Yesterday was quite busy. It was so busy I counted; we had 50 Photo courtesy of Nocera Photographic 932 Country untry Club Blvd Blvd, Cape Coral kids.”

Sneak Preview 4D

Robin Dawn Dance Academy

Voted Cape Coral’s Best Dance Academy

239 549.0827 • www.RobinDawnAcademy.com

26 » DECEMBER 2017 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

spotlight »

MAKING

PRESCHOOL A PRIORITY Child Care of Southwest Florida’s mission is to help Southwest Florida families reap the benefits of early education. STORY BY RANDY K AMBIC

arol Conway and her staff at the headquarters of Child Care of Southwest Florida can almost hear the crack of the bat from the Minnesota Twins and Fort Myers Miracle baseball games at nearby CenturyLink Sports Complex in south Fort Myers. It seems fitting as the nonprofit organization nears the end of its golden anniversary year. After 50 years, the group continues to step up to the plate to improve the lives of children and their families through early education. The organization helps low-income families afford preschool and uses a three-tiered approach, providing food, emotional and educational support. One of its newest endeavors is aimed at eliminating “summer slide,” that loss of skills so many students experience when they’re not stimulated over summer break. tween colors. t distinguishing be ou ab rn lea ren ild Ch SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2017 » 27

« spotlight (continued)

“Many low-income children don’t have access to general and special summer camps,” says Carol, CEO of the organization since December 2014. “They’re not as engaged and can be labeled as poor in reading and math.” Preschool helps children grasp school studies more quickly and instills greater confidence, inquisitiveness and social skills. The nonprofit runs six learning centers in Lee and Hendry counties: The P.A. Geraci Child Development Center, The Children’s Learning Center at FSW and the Joseph H. Messina Children’s Center, all in Fort Myers; The Community Children’s Center in Lehigh Acres; the Children’s Garden of LaBelle, and the Harlem Academy Child Care Center in Clewiston. Curriculum features a play-based environment that includes appreciation for nutritious eating, safe outdoor exercise, arts and crafts, and early learning skills. The organization also seeks new ways to improve its service to the community. After receiving grant money from the David Lucas family, Huffer Foundation, West Bay Community Charitable Foundation, Target Foundation and Gannett Foundation (Gannett is the parent company of SWFL Parent & Child), and after consulting with the Early Learning Coalition of Southwest Florida and the FGCU Family Resource Center, Child Care of Southwest Florida conducted an eight-week Focus on Four pilot program at four of its centers last summer. Test results of 33 4-year-olds who completed the special four-hours-a-day curriculum showed the program prevented the typical “summer slide” and helped keep the kids ready for kindergarten, Carol says. The goal is to launch the program at all CCSWFL centers and

28 » DECEMBER 2017 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

at Florida Gulf Coast University next summer. Child Care of Southwest Florida also helps family child care home providers and other centers enroll in U.S. Department of Agriculture child care food programs, and it offers Florida child care mandated training for providers and other child care personnel. Adults can volunteer with the organization as a Literacy Leader, do light maintenance and landscaping, apply their skills in parent and teacher development, help organize events, assist in grant research and writing, and more. “We have many retired people and working professionals doing STEM projects and helping in many other ways,” says Carol, who holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of New Mexico and has experiences spanning community outreach, nonprofit management, sales, marketing, donor development, volunteer coordination, technology and healthcare program administration. One of these volunteers is Judith Paskvan. “I get so much fulfillment reading to the children,” says Judith, who began volunteering three years ago at the LaBelle facility through the United Way ReadingPals program for 4-year-olds. Judith had retired from managing a home visiting program for parent education and child development for the Hendry County Health Department. “One of my degrees was in child psychology. What we do is all about my passion.” During summers, the Alva resident also works with teachers in supplementing classes with an Along with early learning skills, experiencing the joy of animals is part of Child Care of Southwest Florida programming.

emphasis on instilling awareness of healthy eating. “We don’t just read to them about apples. We cut them up, talk about them, use them in numbers and letters. It’s all about maximizing their experiences.” Judy Diamond, of Fort Myers, who retired as a librarian from the Lee County Library System eight years ago, has been volunteering at the P.A. Geraci facility for the last two years on Tuesdays and Fridays. “The teachers are great and work really hard. I help fill out a little more,” she says, including bringing in pictures that can be filled in with different colors and tracing numbers, letters and shapes of things like animals on paper. “We also talk about what we’re doing. Sometimes, it’s just a hug, some get more individual attention. And I get so much out of it. My husband says I come home beaming.” “My ‘aha’ moment was realizing that little children can learn so much. Ninety percent of neurons are formed by the time you are 5,” adds Carol who has been an invested resident of Southwest Florida for 20 years in both business and community service. She resides in Estero with her husband, Kevin. “Keeping a quality staff is our biggest priority,” Carol says, and she looks forward to collaborating more with Lee County Public Schools in the future. “It’s an incredible job taking care of 650 children on a daily basis, but it’s so rewarding.” — For more information about Child Care of Southwest Florida, 6831 Palisades Park Court, south Fort Myers call 239-278-1002 or, visit ccswfl.org.

cover story »

The most festive time of the year Festivals, boat parades and more light up the month of December with magical moments for all ages.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2017 » 29

» cover story (continued)

BY ANDREA STETSON

ometimes Santa comes by boat. Sometimes his sleigh is pulled by dolphins or bright pink flamingos. It’s the holiday season Southwest Floridastyle. But we get a glimpse of the storybook holiday, too, with large piles of actual snow, mugs of hot chocolate and lots of decorations. There are many things to do for families during the holidayts, from festivals to boat parades. Here’s a look at some of the highlights. Festival of Trees & Santa’s Block Party The Festival of Trees is comprised of six days of events. First, there are the trees. Local businesses and organizations deck out numerous trees that are then raffled off to benefit Goodwill Industries of Southwest Florida. The festival opens November 28 with a preview party. On December 1, the trees are on view during Art Walk and the Holiday Stroll, with a concert by the Nowhere Band. The Children’s Holiday Workshop and Santa’s Block Party take place December 2, a day of arts and crafts, food, entertainment, games, prizes and photos with Santa. • When: Through December 3. Santa’s Block Party is 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. December 2. Tree viewing includes hours of 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. December 1, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. December 2 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. December 3. • Where: Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, 2301 First St., Fort Myers • Cost: Admission to the trees portion of the event is $2 for teens and adults, free for children younger than 12. The Children’s Holiday Workshop is $6. Visit and photo with Santa is $5. • Details: 239-995-2106 or goodwilltrees.com

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Snowfest Snow is in the forecast at the Golden Gate Community Center. Some 1,200 blocks of ice are trucked in and chipped into 100 tons of snow at Snowfest. There will be snow to play in and snow hills for tobogganing. The event includes Santa’s Workshop, a full scale carnival, arts and crafts, a petting zoo, pony rides and food vendors. Snowfest began in 1985 with 5 tons of snow and a few hundred people. It is now Collier County’s largest community event, attracting over 15,000 people each year. Organizers suggest bringing mittens or gloves, hats and even boots. • When: 3 to 9 p.m. December 2; carnival hours are 6 to 11 p.m. December 2 and 3 to 11 p.m. December 3. • Where: Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples • Cost: $2 for anyone older than 3, free for ages 3 and younger • Details: 239-252-4180 or snowfestnaples.com

Holiday in the Park It will be snowing in Riverside Park during this annual holiday festival, which includes a snow slide, tree lighting, music and free cookies and

cider. Santa and Mrs. Claus and three elves arrive by horse and carriage. • When: 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. December 5 • Where: Riverside Park, 10450 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs • Cost: Free • Details: 239-9496262 or cityofbonitasprings.org/ events/holiday-in-the-park-5

Christmas Walk & Tree Lighting Ceremony The 44th annual tree lighting is accompanied by a festival of activities, music and a visit from Santa. • When: 5 to 8 p.m. December 7 • Where: Fifth Avenue South in Naples. The tree lighting is at Sugden Plaza. The festival takes place on Fifth from Ninth to Third streets. • Cost: Free • Details: 239-692-8436 or naplesgov.com/ calendar/2017-12

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Naples Christmas Parade

WinterFest Crafts, refreshments, goodie bag and a chance to see Santa. Photo opportunities. • When: 6 to 8 p.m. December 8 • Where: Estero Recreation Center, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd., Estero • Cost: $5 or a donation of pet supplies • Details: 239-498-0415

Santa Fest Kids enjoy crafts, games, refreshments and a visit with Santa. • When: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. December 8 • Where: Wa-Ke Hatchee Park Recreation Center, 16760 Bass Road, south Fort Myers • Cost: $5 or an unwrapped toy donation • Details: 239-4322154 or leegov.com

Breakfast with Santa Children can enjoy pancakes, bacon and orange juice with Santa. There will also be a photo op with the jolly man in red. • When: 9:30 to 11 a.m. December 9 • Where: Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples • Cost: $3 per person • Details: 239-252-4180 • Tip: Collier County Parks & Recreation hosts numerous holiday events. Get the full calendar at colliergov.net/ your-government/divisions-f-r/parksand-recreation/special-events.

Breakfast with the Kringles Continental-style breakfast, crafts and a photo opportunity with Mr. and Mrs. Kringle. Registration required. • When: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. December 9 • Where: Veterans Park, 55 Homestead Road S., Lehigh Acres • Cost: $5 for ages 11 and younger, includes breakfast, crafts and present; $3 for breakfast only for ages 12 and older. • Details: 239-369-1521

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A holiday parade of floats, bands and costumed characters. • When: December 12, 6 to 8 p.m. • Where: The parade lines up on Broad Avenue. From there, the floats turn right onto Third Street South, then right onto Fifth Avenue South and ends on Eighth Street near Broad Avenue. • Cost: Free • Details: 239-213-7120 or naplesgov.com/ calendar/2017-12

Tuba Christmas Concert More than 70 musicians ages 11 to 80 perform holiday tunes on tubas and euphoniums. • When: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. December 14 • Where: Sugden Plaza on Fifth Avenue South in Naples • Cost: Free • Details: 239-692-8436 or naplesgov. com/calendar/2017-12

Breakfast with Santa Continental-style breakfast, crafts, music and photo opportunity with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. • When: 9:30-11:30 a.m. December 16 • Where: North Fort Myers Recreation Center, 200 N. Recreation Park Way, North Fort Myers • Cost: $3 per person and optional toy donation • Details: 239-533-7200

Cookies and Milk with Santa When you leave cookies and milk for Santa, you don’t get to enjoy the treat with him, but at this event you get to sit at the table with the jolly man in red to munch on cookies. • When: 9 to 11 a.m. December 16 • Where: Eagle Lakes Community Park, 11565 Tamiami Trail E., Naples • Cost: $2 • Details: 239-2524449 or collierparks.com

Holiday House The 61st year for this long-standing Fort Myers tradition, the Burroughs and Langford-Kingston homes will be decorated in “The Wonder of Christmas.” “It will be traditional red and green, kind of getting back the Christmas we remember as children,” says organizer Tracy McGee. “It’s that wonderment as a child.” Money raised helps with the upkeep and improvements to the Burroughs and Langford-Kingston homes. • When: 5 to 9 p.m. December 8-21 • Where: Burroughs and LangfordKingston Homes at First and Fowler streets in downtown Fort Myers • Cost: $5 for adults, free for ages 10 and younger and military with ID • Details: 239-931-0997 or fmwcc.com/holiday-house

cover story (continued) » Christmas at Historic Palm Cottage The Naples Historical Society is adding lots of new events to their holiday house. “This is definitely different,” says President and CEO Elaine Reed. “Embedded within is a new showcase called the Ten days of Christmas.” During those 10 days, there will be special presentations about Naples history, including holiday traditions, recipes from Christmas past, the role of the Victrola and a history of trees and ornaments. The culmination is December 23 with “The Twelve Days of Christmas” sing-along in The Norris Gardens at 8 p.m. Guests may also tour Palm Cottage and see the traditional holiday decorations. Reservations recommended. • When: December 12-23 with hours of noon to 8 p.m. (closed December 17 and 18). There will be a special presentation about Naples history at 5:45 and 6:45 p.m. each day. The cottage will also be open noon to 4 p.m. through December 9 and December 27-30. Closed every Sunday and Monday. • Where: Historic Palm Cottage, 137 12th Ave. S., Naples • Cost: $13 for nonmembers, free for members • Details: 239-261-8164 or napleshistoricalsociety.org

Santa’s Wonderland Get your photo taken with Santa (free 4-by-6 photo) and enjoy games, arts and crafts and various activities. Plus, write letters to Santa. Be sure to get your Bass Pass at the ticket depot to get your spot in line for Santa. • When: Now through December 24 with hours of 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday • Where: Bass Pro Shops at Gulf Coast Town Center, 10040 Gulf Center Drive, Fort Myers • Cost: Free • Details: 239-4617800, basspro.com or facebook.com/ bpsfortmyers

Edison & Ford Holiday Nights The historic buildings and gardens of the Edison & Ford Winter Estates are adorned with lights and traditional

decorations. The Waltzing Waters are returning. Laser lights will be projected on the banyan tree. And a children’s holiday trail features ornaments made by Lee County students. This season will be a star spangled holiday at the Estates. “We will incorporate a lot of patriotic symbols into the decorations,” says Lisa Wilson, marketing director. “Edison’s first strands of lights were red white and blue.” There will be crafts for the kids every night, and the Southwest Florida Military Museum will help children create postcards to send to active and retired military members. • When: 5:30 to 9 p.m. through December 31 (closed December 24-25) • Where: Edison & Ford Winter Estates, 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers • Cost: General admission is $20 for adults, $10 for ages 13-19, $2 for ages 6-12, free for members. Guided tours are $30 for adults, $25 for ages 1319, $18 for ages 6-12 and $10 for members. Lee County residents get $5 off adult admission after 5:30 p.m. December 2, 3, 9, 10, 19, 20, 27, 28 and 29. • Details: 239-334-7419 or edisonfordwinterestates.org/events/ annual-events/holiday-nights

Holiday Express Train The Holiday Express 1/8-scale train takes passengers on a ride through a miniature train village decorated for the holidays. • When: December 15-30 with hours of 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 6 to 9 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday (closes at 2 p.m. December 24 and all day December 25). Also open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. December 31 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. January 1. • Where: Lakes Regional Park, 7330 Gladiolus Drive, south Fort Myers • Cost: $5 for adults, $1 for ages 1-5; those younger than 1 and pregnant women cannot ride. • Details: 239267-1905

Festival of Lights View over one million lights and decorations with a traditional Christmas theme. “Think red, green, gold, lots of trees,” says Kathy Burnam, marketing and events

manager. “Think lots of big ornaments, lots of lights. It is very traditional this year.” There will also be visits with Santa, carolers and a variety of music. • When: Through December 31. Hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. MondaySaturday, noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. • Where: Fisherman’s Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda • Cost: Free • Details: 941-639-8721 or fishville.com

Christmas Light Canal Cruises Seeing the lights and holiday decorations by water has been a tradition for more than 30 years in Punta Gorda. Cruise the canals aboard a King Fisher Fleet vessel. Reservations recommended. • When: 6, 7:30 and 9 p.m. December 2-31 • Where: Departs from Fishermen’s Village Marina, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda • Cost: $19 for adults, $9.50 for ages 3-11, free for children younger than 3. • Details: 941-6390969 or kingfisherfleet.com

New Year’s Eve Fireworks Ring in New Year’s with a fabulous fireworks display at a time that’s more convenient for families with little ones. • When: 7:30-8 p.m. December 31 • Where: The fireworks are launched off a barge near the Naples Pier and can be viewed from anywhere near the pier. • Cost: Free • Details: 239-213-7120 or naplesgov. com/calendar/2017-12

Fishermen’s Village New Year’s Eve A family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration with face painting, hair glitter, LED juggling, plate spinning, balloon creations, music and fireworks at midnight. • When: 5 p.m. December 31 • Where: Fishermen’s Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda (to see the fireworks, go to the west dock) • Cost: Free • Details: 941-639-8721 or fishville.com

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» cover story (continued)

BOAT PARADES Fort Myers Beach Christmas Boat Parade More than 30 decorated and illuminated boats are expected to take part in the 29th annual parade. • When: 6 to 8 p.m. December 2 • Where: The parade begins at Salty Sam’s Marina and the boats pass Parrot Key Caribbean Grill, Matanzas on the Bay, Nervous Nellies, Doc Fords and Bonita Bills. It will also pass through Matanzas Harbor and the first two canals of Siesta Isles. • Details: 239454-7500 or fortmyersbeach.org/ events/christmas-boat-parade-201729th-annual-dec-2

Bonita Springs Christmas Boat Parade Decorated boats decked out with lights cruise down the Imperial River. This year 40 to 50 boats are expected. “We are really stepping it up this year,” says organizer Adam Botana. “We keep on growing. Every year it gets better and better.” There will be Best of Show Family and Best of Show Business awards. • When: 5 p.m. December 9 • Where: Begins at Bay Water Boat Club, 5124 Bonita Beach Road S.W., and goes up the Imperial River to Flossmoor Drive and then back. The best public viewing is by the Imperial River boat launch at River Park. • Details: 239-495-0455 or bonitaboatparade.com

Christmas Boat Parade on Naples Bay It’s a Country Christmas this year, says Tiffany Sawyer-Schank, executive

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director of the Marine Industries Association of Collier County, which organizes the event. She says boaters will “use their imaginations of what they think of when they hear of a country Christmas.” • When: 6:158:30 p.m. December 9 • Where: The parade starts at Marker 18 near Hamilton Harbor and ends at Tin City. The Naples Sailing & Yacht Club will host the judges and VIP guests. The parade may be viewed from Tin City, Naples City Dock, Naples Landings, Kelly’s Fish House, The Boat House Restaurant and Bayview Park. All proceeds benefit Ricky King Foundation. • Details: 239-682-0900 or miacc.org

The Village Shops on Venetian Bay Boat Parade In addition to the boat parade, there’s live entertainment, a snow show, face painting, balloon art, holiday carolers, stories with Mrs. Claus and a visit from Santa. • When: December 12; the boat parade begins at 6:30 p.m., festivities run 5 to 8 p.m. • Where: The Village Shops on Venetian Bay, 4200 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., North Naples • Details: 239-261-6100 or venetianvillage.com/event/boatparade-2

Cape Coral Holiday Boat-A-Long The annual boat parade of more than 100 decorated boats is followed by a free movie in the park and fun activities. After the boat parade, the movie “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” with Jim Carey starts on the big screen. Entertainment includes photos with Santa and holiday crafts for kids. “We usually have over a 100 boats lit up,” says Kristin Bean, senior recreation director for the city of Cape

Coral. “It’s grown and grown. It is one of my favorites.” • When: December 16. The festival is 4 to 10 p.m.; the boat parade starts at sundown. • Where: The best place to view is Four Freedoms Park, 4818 Tarpon Court, Cape Coral, where the holiday festival takes place. The boats gather in Bimini Basin to line up and then they parade along the canals in south Cape Coral. Free parking is available at the corner of S.E. Eighth Court and S.E. 47th Terrace. There is also free parking in downtown lots. Free shuttle available. • Details: 239- 573-3123.

The Saturday Night Before Christmas Eve Boat Parade The 17th annual parade that attracts 15,000 to 20,000 spectators has a new route this year. Organizers say the new itinerary simplifies the route and eliminates two-way traffic. The new route, which is 4.5 miles, down from 6 miles, actually has more viewing areas. “It’s unique, because there are no prizes, no awards, no entry fee. There are no judges. There are just boaters who are happy to provide the community with a tremendous Christmas gift,” says organizer Harris Bowers. “The reason the boaters are there is because of the thousands of spectators that are cheering and making a joyful noise.” • When: 6 p.m. December 23 • Where: The parade assembles in Santa’s Cove on the west side of Almar Drive near Rio Villa Drive and ends in Yellowfish Lagoon south of West Marion Avenue and west of Coronado Drive. See the new route at puntagordaboatparade. com/see-the-parade/printableparade-map • Details: puntagorda boatparade. com

volunteering »

GIVING FROM THE

HEART

Meet six Southwest Florida children who give back.

BY LEIGH TAHIROVIC

’Tis the season for giving. But many kids make it a year-round mission to give their time to help others. Collectively, they spend countless hours in service, whether it’s during a critical time of great need, like Hurricane Irma, or it’s a cause that sparks a fire in their heart, like feeding the hungry. Volunteering is ingrained in their core values, and this month, SWFL Parent & Child shares the inspiring stories of six such students.

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« volunteering (continued)

WILLIAM

BURGER

Eighth grade • Seacrest Country Day School

PHOTO BY AMANDA INSCORE

William Burger says his desire to help others stems from his upbringing as a Christian. Born in England, William moved to Naples four years ago and, in that time, has regularly volunteered to aid others in the community. “From a young age, I’ve been helping people for charity. My family and I have always done it,” William says. He has served at his school, Seacrest Country Day School, with charity groups and his church, North Naples Church. After witnessing the destruction from Hurricane Irma, he felt inspired to do more for others in need. Two days after the devastating storm ravaged Collier County, William saw how his neighbors in East Naples were severely impacted. In a small mobile home park, where many homes in the over-55 community were nearly destroyed, William decided to roll up his sleeves and pitch in. “I saw a mobile home park where many of the elderly residents couldn’t walk without assistance,” William recalls. “Their homes were completely destroyed, and they couldn’t walk to get water.” He went door-to-door delivering water but didn’t stop there. William created care packages of canned goods and other supplies that he took to the residents of Naples Estates. Along with other classmates and members of his soccer team, William kept going back to the mobile home community every day during the two weeks school was closed after Irma. “I spent four to five hours every day [there] while I was out of school,” William says. “We just went by ourselves,” he says, explaining how it all got started. His efforts inspired others to get involved. A charity organization, God’s Pit Crew, sent a truck full of supplies to Naples Estates after William’s mother, Hennika Burger,

contacted them. “We had a barbecue meal served,” William says. And he even got to shake hands with President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence, who toured Naples Estates after the storm. William and his group of volunteers also went to Shawdowlawn Elementary School in East Naples. They handed out supplies to some 250 people who needed aid after Irma. One popular item, William recalls, was “baby supplies. Lots of people needed baby supplies.” The experience showed William that even in an affluent area like Naples, people are hurting. “I can always help,” William says. “I know I can make a difference.”

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SHEA CUNNINGHAM Sophomore • Oasis Charter High School

Shea Cunningham, 15, has worked a gamut of volunteer experiences. And the list is long. But she clearly recalls her first time volunteering. It was a mobile food pantry when she was 7 years old. But beach cleanups are her all-time favorite. “I like the beach cleanups,” Shea says. She participates in them several times a year. “It’s fun to volunteer with friends on the weekends and clean up the beach.” Shea doesn’t mind picking up other people’s trash, because she knows it’s for the greater good. “I believe in giving back to the community, especially to those in need,” she says. As a JROTC cadet, she also regularly takes part in service learning projects. Her group picks up trash along Oasis

Boulevard in Cape Coral twice a year. In January, she will also help out at an event where elementary-age students can learn camping survival skills. “I’ll help teach them how to collect water with just morning dew,” she explains. Shea has flipped pancakes at Kiwanis Club-sponsored pancake breakfasts. She has folded letters to stuff envelopes for the United Way and even volunteered during income tax season when the United Way hosts its tax prep clinics. She has volunteered at the Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida, giving her time to visit sick kids. And each December, Shea goes to a Meals of Hope food packing event at Harborside Event Center, which attracts about 2,000 people each year. She has done so for the last five years with her

family. “One of my favorite traditions is packing food on Christmas Eve. It’s so much fun. We sing and dance and volunteer, all at the same time,” Shea says. She’s not put off by a hair net, instead she dons Santa’s hat. “I always wear a Christmas hat.” Another volunteer project was when she helped fill backpacks with school supplies, as part of Tools for Schools with Publix. “I went to a warehouse to organize bags to give to kids for school,” she recalls. Ultimately, the United Way distributed the filled backpacks to students in Lee County. Her motivation to volunteer is rooted in a simple concept. “Make someone smile,” she says. “It makes my day when I can help someone else.” She also credits her mother, Patrice Cunningham, who works for United Way of Lee, Hendry, Glades and Okeechobee. “She inspires me to be a better leader, and to volunteer.”

“Make someone smile.”

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PHOTO BY LOGAN NEWELL

Fourth Grade • Pine Island Elementary School

NICHOLAS FORD &JAYSON FORD

Seventh grade • Caloosa Middle School

Brothers Jayson and Nicholas Ford are regular go-to helpers, and no job is too big or too small for these young boys. Though there is a three-year age gap, the boys stick together when volunteering. Most of the time, they volunteer with Jayson’s Boy Scout troop. (Nicholas is a Cub Scout but attends Jayson’s Scout meetings.) One example is when the brothers helped clean up a local park while other troop members built new park benches. “I picked up big sticks and logs,”

Jayson, 12, says, and Nicholas, 9, adds, “I like to get dirty and clean up trash.” They are also very active in the Pine Island community, answering the call whenever there is a need. They have given their time to help out at island events, such as the Cape Coral Oktoberfest and the Blessing of the Pets at the Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal Church. “My favorite part was seeing all the pets,” Jayson says. “We put up all the chairs, handed out fliers to people coming in and [gave] treats to dogs.”

After Hurricane Irma, the boys really pitched in. They helped clean up the grounds of the German-American Social Club of Cape Coral. “We cleared the land,” Jayson says. All of this volunteer work stems from the boys’ desire to help others, from a deep-rooted sensitivity they both have. “I worry about other people,” Jayson says. “It’s good to help others.” And Nicholas agrees. “[Volunteering] makes me feel good about helping.” The boys also see volunteering as a chance to be together, and to work outside in the community they love. “It’s nice to have my brother around,” Jayson says, adding that they work really well together. But don’t think younger brother Nicholas needs his big brother to step in. Rather both boys do what is asked of them. To help other people, that’s important, Nicholas says, “because it’s fun.”

“It's good to help others.” 38 » DECEMBER 2017 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

— JAYSON FORD

volunteering (continued) »

BECKY PACTER Sophomore • Baron Collier High School

PHOTO BY DOROTHY EDWARDS

Becky Pacter loves this time of year. The sophomore is a longtime volunteer and annually gives her time to toy drives and other holiday philanthropic efforts. But it was a disaster that really inspired Becky to look beyond Naples to others in need. That was Hurricane Irma and how

it ravaged St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Her family had spent time there over the summer and connected with a local school teacher. Becky’s mom, Laura Pacter, is a Collier school teacher, and the two teachers made plans to be pen pals once school started. Neither one

ever considered that a hurricane would wipe out most of the schools on St. Thomas, including the school libraries. That affected Becky, and she decided to set up a book collection drive to send donations to the teacher in St. Thomas. To date, she has mailed some 300 books. “I just knew I needed to do something, so I started a book drive,” Becky says. “I’ve sent eight boxes … [and] I’ll send two more soon.” Volunteering was a regular part of her life growing up, but her efforts became more deliberate and intentional when she became a sixth-grader. She began volunteering in the summer with ESY (Extended School Year) for Collier County Public Schools, a program for students with disabilities. Becky has helped out in a classroom every summer since then. “It was cool to show them life skills,” Becky says of helping the students learn to bake. “ESY is the best for me, the best way to spend my summer.” As a freshman, she joined the Key Club, a service program for high school students. At first, Becky thought the student-led organization was about making keys, and she was thrilled to learn its focus was serving others. That first year, she exceeded her required volunteer-hour quota by four times, clocking 59 hours. Now she has set her sights on the President’s Volunteer Service Award, which honors individuals who achieve a required number of hours of service over a 12-month period or cumulative hours over the course of a lifetime. “I’m aiming for 100-plus hours, if not more,” Becky says. That would put her in the highest category for the award. So far, she has 79 service hours. “Volunteering is a great opportunity. I feel like all people should do it.”

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« volunteering (continued)

AUTUMN

PEPPER RHODES Autumn Pepper Rhodes sees volunteering as a gift she gives to others. And the gift she likes most to give is one with shoelaces. She calls it the No Bare Feet Project. Autumn was a fourth-grader when she recognized that some schoolchildren didn’t have shoes or socks to wear. Inspired to help out, she started a collection drive, and over time, it morphed into the No Bare Feet Project. Since she started, some 2,000 pairs of shoes have been given to those without properly fitting shoes. “Children need shoes. It’s an essential, because kids grow out of shoes really fast,” she says. “I wanted to try to do something about it.” During one collection drive, she received over 400 pairs of shoes in one week. “It was so awesome, because I was actually doing something,” Autumn says. And she has. Now Autumn has turned her sights to helping adults who are looking for employment, and collects dress shoes, work shoes and sandals, really “any shoe beneficial to someone looking for a job,” she explains. “When you give to others, you are giving a gift to yourself,” Autumn says. One day she hopes to establish a shop-style store where people can come for shoes. “I’d love to open a nonprofit center to give shoes and [allow others] to take shoes — and exchange without the

PHOTO BY AMANDA INSCORE

Seventh grade • Paul Laurence Dunbar Middle School

money. I love that transaction to openly give without the middle organization,” she explains. Shoes aren’t the only way Autumn gives of herself. Along with her Girl Scout troop, she has picked up trash for Keep America Beautiful, participated in beach cleanups and given her time and talents to the Children’s Home Society of Florida, Abuse Counseling and Treatment Inc. and Youth Haven. “I’ve volunteered a lot over the years,” says Autumn, who has been involved with Girl Scouts for eight years and now is a second-year cadet. Autumn also volunteered at G.I.R.L. 2017, the tri-annual convention for Girl Scouts held in Columbus, Ohio,

in October. She was selected as one of 12 Girl Scouts to serve on the national media team. “We went through training to learn how to answer questions from reporters … [and] went to and figured out what they were doing to answer [other people’s] questions,” Autumn says. “It was a huge deal.” Autumn is also involved with the National Junior Honors Society and is a staff sergeant in the Civil Air Patrol and is learning to fly. She sees volunteering as secondnature. “When you give to others, you are really giving a gift of yourself … there is always someone less fortunate than you.”

“When you give to others, you are giving a gift to yourself.” 40 » DECEMBER 2017 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

safety corner » L AUR IE A NDER SON

Teach your child the 911 basics 911 Operator: 9-1-1. What is the address of your emergency? Caller: (Silence) 911 Operator: 9-1-1. What is the address of your emergency? Caller: Ummmm… I don’t know… My mommy won’t wake up.

Can you help me? 911 Operator: OK, honey. How old are you? Caller: I’m 5…

Every day, 911 operators around the country receive calls from children. Some of those calls turn out to be accidental, and some even comical, but many of them are true emergencies. The calls come from children of all ages and some from children as young as 3 years old. Dealing with a true emergency and having to call 911 can be a scary event for children, but if they are educated on what they need to know and what to expect when calling 911, these calls can be less frightening. While most counties have 911 public education programs that go to schools and public events, it is difficult to reach all children who would benefit from receiving this important information. For that reason, we are reaching out to parents with children of all ages to encourage them to teach their children the 911 basics.

On this page is a list of basic items children need to know, but the most important of all is their location. Without a location, emergency services cannot be sent. While we know that 911 emergencies do not always happen in the home, one of the most basic items and most important for children to learn is their home address. The widespread use of cellular phones, not only for travel but also as the primary source of communication in many homes, causes additional challenges when trying to locate 911 callers. Nationwide, about 70 percent of 911 calls are made from cellular phones, and operators are often unable to determine their exact location if the caller is unable to provide it. At a minimum, children should be prepared with their home address, and when not at home be able to describe their surroundings.

Laurie Anderson is the Charlotte County Emergency 911 coordinator for the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office. Safe Kids is a nonprofit coalition of agencies and organizations dedicated to eliminating preventable childhood injuries. Visit safekidsswfl.org.

The 911 basics

1. Name 2. Address 3. Phone number 4. When to call 911 (what is and what is not considered an emergency) 5. Remain calm and try to answer the questions the operator asks. 6. Do not hang up the phone until the operator says it is OK to do so.

Teaching these basic items is relatively easy. Here are some tips to help you in the process. 1. Place your address and phone number on the refrigerator or a commonly visited location at the child’s height so they may see it regularly. 2. Have the child repeat the phone number and address back to you. Make it fun. Give them a pop quiz with some type of reward for correct answers. 3. Practice with your child using a pretend phone. Never use a real phone to practice calling 911. Show them where to locate the numbers they need to dial. You can also practice by creating a skit that will allow your child to practice

providing their name, address, phone number and type of emergency. 4. Create a song out of the information. 5. Read them a book pertaining to 911. (Books and other materials can be found in an online search.) 6. Visit websites that provide 911 activities, like coloring pages and games. 7. Practice should be repetitive. Once they have mastered it, occasionally check to see what they remember. 8. Remind your child that 911 operators are there to help and we are friends during the emergency.

If you have any questions about 911 or want to learn more about how you can help your child learn, you may contact Laurie Anderson at landerson@ccsofl.net or contact your local 911 coordinator.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2017 » 41

« family album

BUDDY BENCH » Evangelical Christian School second-grader Mia Campbell worked with her principal and teachers to have a Buddy Bench installed on the school playground. By sitting on the Buddy Bench, a student lets classmates know they’re in need of a friend. Mia says she hopes more kids will take the initiative to put a Buddy Bench at their schools. Photo special to SWFL Parent & Child

SCHOLARS OF MERIT »

Community School of Naples seniors Jack Ciabaton, left, Davis Elder and Eli Melnick qualified as semifinalists in the National Merit Scholarship program. The honor allows them to compete for some 7,500 National Merit Scholarships worth $32 million. Photo courtesy of Community School of Naples

42 » DECEMBER 2017 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

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SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2017 » 43

« family album

REACHING OUT FROM TEXAS » When Hurricane Irma barreled up the Florida peninsula, these young people from Texas went into action to help. Kenan Pala, the 13-year-old founder of Kids4Community, brought together hundreds of volunteers to assemble care packages for victims affected by the earthquake in Mexico City, Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico and Hurricane Irma in Florida. In addition to the care packages, Kids4Community also sent “Messages of Love” (T-shirts with positive words of encouragement). Photo special to SWFL Parent & Child

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Marino turned 2 just before Thanksgiving, and he’s ready for the holidays. Photo by mom Emma Marino

44 » DECEMBER 2017 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

A WONDERFUL STORY » As part

of October’s Spread Kindness Month, Mrs. Pendleton’s fifth-grade class at St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral read the book “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio. It’s about a boy named Auggie who was born with a unique face as he transitions from homeschooling to a private prep middle school. To tie in with National Bullying Prevention Month, students decorated their classroom door with the “Wonder” theme and quotes of kindness. To celebrate Auggie’s birthday on Ocotber 10, students enjoyed cupcakes with their “good read.” Photo courtesy of St. Andrew Catholic School

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TRIKES FOR TYKES »The News-Press Media Group advertising staff assembled tricycles for the Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida where they will eventually become presents to pediatric patients.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2017 » 45

« family album

LEARNING GRANTED » Champions For Learning awarded 104 grant checks totaling nearly $50,000 to 39 schools in surprise visits on October 3. • Top: Corkscrew Elementary teacher Tonya Phipps received a grant for a STEM project called “Snap! SCIENCE!” • Left: Gulfview Middle School teacher Laura Burke received a grant for a history project called “Remembering Lincoln: Art and Oratory.” • Right: Palmetto Ridge High School teacher Kathryn Swartz earned a grant for an art project called “Authentic Art for All: Creating an All-Inclusive Art Studio.”Photo courtesy of Champions For Learning

46 » DECEMBER 2017 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

PHOTO COURTESY OF GRAND ISLE RESORT

The swimming pigs of The Exumas paddle out into the water to greet boaters. Below, a boy snorkels at the Grand Isle Resort on Great Exuma. The Exumas area of the Bahamas is famous for its clear blue water.

travel »

THE EXUMAS The way the Bahamas was meant to be

These winter blues are welcome hues indeed: the ultra-sapphire blue waters of our neighboring Bahama Islands, particularly The Exumas. Many people think of the Bahamas as Nassau; however, there is much more to explore and see in this country that lies just 50 miles east of Florida. In fact, there are more than 700 islands in this chain covering more than 100,000 square miles of ocean, according to the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism. STORY BY JENNIFER THOMAS

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2017 » 47

« travel (continued)

These islands boast the Tropic of Cancer Beach, named for the meridian line that crosses it; stromatolites, the oldest known macro-fossils on earth, at Stocking Island; and Moriah Harbour Cay National Park, a vital part of the ecosystem between Great and Little Exuma with sand dunes, beaches, mangroves and sea grass beds. The Exumas are particularly beautiful, an archipelago of 365 cays and islands about 35 miles southeast of Nassau. Once called Yumey and Suma, today they’re divided into three major areas: Great Exuma, Little Exuma and The Exuma Cays. “Great Exuma and its cays are the most exotic of the Bahamas Out Islands, like a collection of precious gems, the islands are set in a sea of Technicolor blues bordered by ivory beaches,” describes Sandra Grisham Clothier, general manager of Grand Isle Resort & Spa on Great Exuma. “Gentle winds help maintain a balmy

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and warm tropical climate year-round, making Exuma an ideal vacation spot for any season. Summer temperatures range between 80 and 90 degrees, and winters in Exuma are mild with temperatures rarely dropping below 78 degrees. Great Exuma has always been the best kept secret of savvy tropical vacationers.” Grand Isle Resort is nestled on the crescent-shaped private beach of Emerald Bay, with 78 oceanfront villas. When staying at the resort, guests can partake in paddleboarding, golf, a treatment at the SeaStar Spa and island fare while dining poolside. “The open-air poolside Palapa Grill serves traditional Bahamian Caribbean jerk-style seafood, Bahamian barbecue and traditional simple American favorites,” Sandra says. “Light fare and a full-service bar offers a variety of beverages, wine and signature tropical cocktails, such as our Exuma Blue, that are available poolside or on the beautiful beach.”

Sandra has some must-do recommendations: “For those who are inclined to do more than relax on the beach, Great Exuma offers a variety of active pursuits: Fishing is a popular sport, or rent a boat and cruise to Elizabeth Harbor. Exploring deeper, dive blue holes or snorkel off the coast of Stocking Island to discover a wide variety of Technicolor sea life. Last but not least, take the Swimming with Pigs tour — a world famous bucket list item that is unforgettable.” “Domesticated” pigs live on Major’s Spot Cay (it’s unknown how they got there), and whenever a boat approaches, they swim out to it and expect to be fed. Fort Myers residents Mandy Garland and Jana Bailey both traveled to Exuma this past summer with their families and experienced firsthand the magic of this destination, and of course, swimming with the pigs. “We have traveled throughout most

Top far left: One of the swimming pigs moves in for its close-up in this photo courtesy of Grand Isle Resort. The remaining photos are from the Garland family’s trip to the Bahamas. The Fort Myers family traveled on their 39-foot Yellowfin, first to Bimini, then Nassau and finally Staniel Cay.

of the Caribbean, Bahamas, Abaco and Eleuthera Islands. Staniel Cay in the Exuma Islands had been on my bucket list for a few years. We were always fascinated by stories and videos of the famous swimming pigs,” Jana says. “To really enjoy the Exumas, you really need to take your boat or rent one there. It is a popular area for people traveling on mega yachts with small dinghies to take them up to the beaches and to visit the island with the swimming pigs.” There are several islands to experience, each with their own charm and attractions. “Compass Cay is famous for nurse sharks that you can swim with,” Jana says. “Farmer’s Cay is famous for their sea turtles and sting rays that you can also feed and swim with, and Thunderball Grotto is a must see.” Thunderball Grotto, site of two James Bond movies, has a 40-foot jump through a cave.

For Mandy and her family, they ventured to the Bahamas from Fort Lauderdale via their own vessel and traveled first to Bimini, then to Nassau before heading to Staniel Cay. “This was our first long boat trip on our 39-foot Yellowfin. We trailered our boat from Fort Myers to Fort Lauderdale,” she says. “I would caution anyone who does boating in the Exumas to have up-to-date charts as there are many shallow areas and coral rock that can easily be missed and can sneak up on you in a hurry.” While in the Bahamas, Mandy and her family snorkeled, fished, swam with the pigs and even jumped off Thunderball Grotto. “However, my favorite activity was swimming with the turtles at Farmer’s Cay,” she adds. Jana and her family opted to forgo the traditional resort experience during their family vacation in the Exumas this past summer. “We chose to charter a private

yacht. It was an incredible experience. We felt like rock stars getting to stay aboard Temptation,” Jana says. “Temptation can be chartered through Staniel Cay Yacht Club and comes with a captain and chef who cater to your every wish and more. Captain Joel was born and raised there in the Exumas, so his knowledge and expertise of the islands allowed us to get to experience all the little ‘secret spots’ that most people might miss.” The main attraction for the Exumas is the water. “The waters around the Exuma Islands are like none other,” Jana says. “There really is just no way to describe the beauty of the water. Way beyond any of the other islands we have ever traveled to.” Mandy, too, recalls the beauty of the Bahamas. “It seemed the further you went into the Exumas, the more clear the water got — as if it could actually get any clearer.”

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2017 » 49

« around town

Celebrate the holidays cirque style

With more than 300 elaborate costumes, 20 mesmerizing acts, plus music, snowmen, penguins, angels, reindeer, toy soldiers, gingerbread men and Santa, Cirque Dreams “Holidaze” is set to light up the stage December 22 and 23 at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall in Fort Myers. Tickets are $27-$67. Shows are at 7:30 p.m. Friday, December 22, and 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday, December 23. Get details at 239-481-4849 or bbmannpah.com.

Tea at The Ritz – for kids

Santa on the sand

The Ritz-Carton, Naples is holding a special tea time for families to benefit Make-AWish Southern Florida. The Tea at The Ritz-Carlton: Gingerbread and Sugar Plums Holiday Tea at 2 p.m. Saturday, December 9, goes toward making dreams come true for children with critical illness. There will be excerpts from “The Nutcracker” by the Naples Ballet and a kids’ zone with cookie decorating, crafts and a Santa letter-writing station. Tickets are $75 for ages 13 and younger, $125 for adults. Get details at makeawishtickets. org. (Note: This is a separate event from The Ritz-Carlton’s Teddy Bear Tea.) The Ritz-Carlton is at 280 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples; ritzcarlton.com.

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Here’s a holiday event that’s so Southwest Florida. At Santa on the Sand on December 10, families can enjoy an afternoon of lunch, games and prizes on the beach with Old Saint Nick himself. Children ages 8 and younger who bring an unwrapped toy for a child in need may visit with Santa and receive a small gift (bring your camera). Lunch will be provided for the children and snacks for the adults. Each family has a chance to win a decorated tree donated by the Rotary Club of Bonita Springs. Registration is required for this Friends of Lovers Key event; call 708-359-0466 or email fjgreenwood@gmail.com. Entry fees are $8 for vehicles of two to eight people, $4 for a singleoccupant vehicle or $2 for pedestrians and bicyclists, plus the unwrapped toy. The event is 1-4 p.m. Sunday, December 10, at Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach.

calendar »

Penguins in Paradise

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Now-April 15. Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, 1590 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples. Included with regular admission, which is $22.95 for ages 13 and older, $14.95 for ages 3-12 and free for children younger than 3 (discounts typically available online). Four African penguins are visiting the zoo as part of a traveling exhibit. This African species thrives in subtropical climates like ours. 239-262-5409. napleszoo.org

PRESCHOOL

Friday, Dec. 1 “A Christmas Story” » Through December 25. Broadway Palm 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. $30 for ages 12 and younger, $60-$70 for adults, includes lunch or dinner and show. See website for times, including two Christmas Day performances. broadwaypalm.com Candy Land Christmas » 5:30 p.m. First United Methodist Church, 388 First Ave. S., Naples. Kids walk through the game and do fun Christmas activities, such as meeting Elsa, making an ice cream sundae, going on a Christmas scavenger hunt and spinning the prize wheel. At the end of the candy land trail, kids meet Santa and get a special keepsake photo to take home.

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Edison & Ford Holiday Nights » 5:30-9 p.m. nightly through December 31 (except December 24-25). See the historical homes lit for the holidays and enjoy Liquid Fireworks by Waltzing Waters, history characters and the Children’s Tree Trail with more than 60 trees decorated with handmade ornaments from local children. Artist Doug MacGregor will teach children how to draw cartoons December 9, 16 and 23. Santa visits on select nights. There’s a holiday science show at 10 a.m. December 16. And kids are invited to make

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2017 » 51

RESALE & CONSIGNMENT

« calendar holiday postcards for military personnel. Without a guided tour, admission is $20 for adults, $10 for ages 13-19 and $2 for ages 6-12. Admission with a guided tour is $30, $25 and $18. Lee County residents receive $5 off December 2, 3, 9, 10, 19, 20, 27-29. 239-334-7419. edisonfordwinterestates.org Festival of Trees Wreath Lighting Ceremony » 6-10 p.m. Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, 2301 First St., Fort Myers. Free. Wreath lighting ceremony and outdoor concert. Tree viewing inside is $2 for ages 12 and older. Join Santa and Fort Myers Mayor Randy Henderson as they light the giant wreath to usher in the holidays in historic downtown Fort Myers. Alliance Youth Theatre presents “Junie B. Jones” » December 1-3. Alliance for the Arts, Fort Myers. $10. The Alliance Youth Theatre perform this Junie B. Jones story about the first day of first grade. 239-939-2787. artinlee.org Photos with Santa at Miromar » Through December 23. Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero. Get your photo taken with Santa in Suite 182. miromaroutlets.com “The Polar Express” Storytime » 7 p.m. Three Barnes & Noble locations: Coconut Point, 23130 Fashion Drive, Estero; Waterside Shops, 5377 Tamiami Trail Naples, and 13751 Tamiami Trail, south Fort Myers. All aboard! Come in your PJs and enjoy the beloved classic “The Polar Express.” Coloring and activities to follow. Walk Through Bethlehem » 5-9 p.m. Sanibel Community Church, Historic Chapel, 1740 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Walk through the streets of the ancient town of Bethlehem at the time of Jesus’ birth in this living re-creation of the marketplace with busy shopkeepers, vendors and Roman guards, and visit the humble stable where Jesus was born. 239-472-2684. sanibelchurch.com

Saturday, Dec. 2 Free Family Tennis Festival » 6-10 p.m. Greater Naples YMCA, 5450 YMCA Road, Naples, FL 34109. Join USTA Florida and the Greater Naples YMCA for an evening of family fun celebrating Hispanic heritage and tennis for everyone. Activities for adults and children of all ages. Ages 10 and younger can enjoy special games and activities on 36-foot courts (racquets provided). When the sun goes down, there’ll be XGLOsive Black-Light (Glow-in-the-Dark) Tennis. The first 200 participants to register and attend receive a free T-shirt at check-in. 407-3924996. tptfestivalnaples.eventbrite.com Great Outdoor Adventure Day » 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach. Food, touch tanks, children’s activities, as well as Ranger-led programs. Plus, guided kayak tours, walking nature tours, bike tours (bike and helmets provided), geo-caching, fishing clinics and more. Included in regular park entrance of $8 per vehicle of up to eight people, $4 for a single occupant and $2 per pedestrian or bicyclist. Guided Kayak tours are $10 per person, kayak rental included. “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” Storytime » 11 a.m. Three Barnes & Noble locations: Coconut Point, 23130 Fashion Drive, Estero; Waterside Shops, 5377 Tamiami Trail Naples, and 13751 Tamiami Trail, south Fort Myers. This classic, heartwarming story about the effects of the Christmas spirit will grow even the coldest and smallest of hearts three sizes. Activities to follow. Improv Café » 5 p.m. Center for Performing Arts Bonita Springs, 10150 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs. $6 for

52 » DECEMBER 2017 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

calendar » youth, $10 for adults. This youth improve group was trained through CFABS youth theater and improve classes. 239-495-8989. artcenterbonita.org

for photos with Santa. 239-992-0311. floridastateparks.org and friendsofkoreshan.org Figure Skating Show: Holidays at Home » 2 p.m. Germain Arena, 11000 Everblades Parkway, Estero. $10, free for children younger than 3. Free parking. Tickets available at fefsc.org. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. The Florida Everblades Figure Skating Club perform to holiday songs.

“Jingle ARRGH the Way” » December 2-24. Broadway Palm 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. $19 for all ages includes lunch and show. Lunch starts at noon and show at 1 p.m. December 2, 10, 16, 22 and 24. 239-278-4422. broadwaypalm.com Lexi Lop » 11 a.m. Collier County Public Library Headquarters Branch, 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Be one of the first to hear the new Lexi Lop book and then meet Lexi, an English Lop bunny and some of her bunny friends. The book: “Lexi Lop and the Best Library Book Ever” by Andrea Stetson. Register at collierlibrary.org/ programs. Mommy and Me Yoga » 9-10 a.m. Healthy Life Center at Coconut Point, 23190 Fashion Drive, Suite 105, Estero. Yoga instructor Nicole Traum, of Lee Health Wellness Center, will lead a free mommy-and-me yoga session for ages 3 and younger. Reservations required. 239-495-4475. Run for Hannah » 8 a.m. Rotary Park, 5505 Rose Garden Road, Cape Coral. $25 for ages 18 and older, $15 for ages 17 and younger. Organized by a local high school student to benefit Hannah Grant, a 16-year-old Fort Myers resident who was gravely injured in a distracted driving accident 10 years ago. All proceeds help pay the expense of her ongoing care. active.com (search Run for Hannah to register). Santa’s Block Party » 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, 2301 First St., Fort Myers. $6 for the Children’s Workshop, $2 for entry to Festival of Trees. Food trucks available for purchases. 239-333-1933. sbdac.com Snowfest » 3-9 p.m. Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples. $2 for anyone older than 3, free for ages 3 and younger. Possibly the biggest snow event in Southwest Florida. Some 100 tons of snow are shaped into toboggan hills and piles to play in. Plus, there’s a Santa’s Workshop, arts and crafts, petting zoo, pony rides, food vendors and a carnival. The carnival hours are 6-11 p.m. December 2 and 3-11 p.m. December 3. 239-252-4180 or snowfestnaples.com The Naples Players KidzAct presents “Elf the Musical, Jr.” » 2-4 p.m. Sugden Community Theatre, 701 Fifth Ave. S., Naples. $20 for adults, $10 for students and educators. Based on the cherished New Line Cinema hit movie. Shows are 2 p.m. December 2 and 9, 7 p.m. December 3, 4, 7 and 10. 239-263-7990. naplesplayers.org “The Nutcracker” » 2 and 7 p.m. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. $29-$75. Gulfshore Ballet performs with the Gulf Coast Symphony. bbmannpah.com or gulfcoastsymphony.org/ concert/the-nutcracker

Sunday, Dec. 3 Old-Fashioned Holiday Bazaar » 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Koreshan State Historic Site, 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero. Included with park admission, which is $5 for a vehicle with 2-8 people, $4 for single occupant vehicle, $2 for pedestrians and bicyclists. Shop artisan goods and crafts. Enjoy a free ride in Santa’s carriage, entertainment, crafts for the kids and more. Pets are welcome to come

Sarah Feminella of the Florida Everblades Figure Skating Club

Santa at the Shell Factory » 10 a.m.-noon. The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers. Santa visits December 3, 9, 16, 17, 22 and 23. 239-995-2141 or 239-9953999.

Santa Breakfast » 8 a.m. Anthony’s On The Blvd., 1303 Del Prado Blvd. S., Cape Coral. Kids eat free Sunday breakfast and meet Santa and Mrs. Claus. Sensitive Santa » 10-11:30 a.m. Edison Mall, 4125 Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers. An event for families with children with all spectrums of special needs, providing a more controlled and welcoming environment to visit The Santa Photo Experience. Simple adjustments are made to reduce sensory stimuli (muted lights, music and waiting to visit Santa at activity tables) to create a calming environment. The event is free, and Santa photo packages will be available for purchase. Each family or group is asked to reserve one ticket in advance. Sensitive Santa is held in partnership with Autism Speaks. Zach Polsenberg’s Heat Severity Charity Fundraiser » Noon-8 p.m. Caloosahatchee Jacks, 11491 S. Cleveland Ave., south Fort Myers. This event is in honor of Zach Polsenberg, the offensive lineman for the Riverdale High School Raiders football team who died from heat stroke in July. Several bands will play throughout the day, plus there will be raffles, silent auctions and food and drink specials.

Tuesday, Dec. 5 Breastfeeding Class » 6:30-8:30 p.m. The Family Birth Center of Naples, 2930 Immokalee Road, Suite 2, Naples. Learn how to successfully breastfeed your newborn baby, use breast pumps, transition to returning to work while breastfeeding and more. 239594-0400. Register at naplesbirthcenter.com or email FBCNaples@ gmail.com. Christmas Carol Sing » 1, 4 and 7 p.m. First Presbyterian Church, 2438 Second St., Fort Myers. Free admission; nonperishable food or cash donation requested for The Soup Kitchen. Doors open 30 minutes prior to show. Listen to the church choir, soloists and special guests, plus participate in audience sing-alongs and meet Santa. 239-334-2261. fpcfortmyers.org Holiday in the Park » 4:30-8:30 p.m. Riverside Park, 10450 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs. Free. Snow slide, tree lighting, music and free cookies and cider. Santa and Mrs. Claus and three elves arrive by horse and carriage. 239-949-6262 or cityofbonitasprings. org/events/holiday-in-the-park-5

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2017 » 53

« calendar Thursday, Dec. 7

ID #12244950, and a percentage of your purchase goes to the reading program. Online purchases December 9-14 also count.

ASD ArtPlay » 4:30 p.m. every Thursday. Alliance for the Arts, Fort Myers. $10 per class includes art supplies. A visual arts class for young artists with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Designed for ages 8-17. Registration required. 239-939-2787. artinlee.org

Breakfast with Santa » 9:30-11 a.m. Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples. $3. Pancakes, bacon and orange juice with Santa. 239-252-4180. colliergov.net

Christmas Walk & Tree Lighting Ceremony » 5-8 p.m. Fifth Avenue South in downtown Naples. Free. Tree lighting, activities, music and a visit from Santa. 239-6928436 or naplesgov.com/calendar/2017-12

Friday, Dec. 8 Christmas in the Park » 4-10 p.m. Centennial Park, Fort Myers. Free. Children’s activities, bounce house, inflatable obstacle course and a giant slide. At 5 p.m., Santa arrives by fire truck and the Southwest Florida Symphony performs. At 6 p.m., Mayor Randy Henderson lights the city Christmas tree. At 7:30 p.m., there’ll be a free showing of Disney’s “A Christmas Carol,” starring Jim Carrey. Concessions will be available for $1. Bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating. Night Lights in the Garden » 6-9 p.m. December 8-23, 26-30 and January 1-3. Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples. The gardens light up, musical performances fill their air and families partake in fun activities and festive treats. Tickets must be purchased in advance, either online or at the ticket window during regular hours (9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily; opens at 8 a.m. Tuesdays). Prices for members are $10 for adults, $5 for ages 4-14, free for ages 3 and younger. Prices for nonmembers December 8-14 are $20 for adults, $10 for ages 4-14, free for ages 3 and younger; prices for nonmembers December 15-January 3 are $25 for adults and $15 for ages 4-14. 239-643-7275. naplesgarden.org Santa Fest » 6:30-8:30 p.m. Wa-Ke Hatchee Recreation Center, 16730 Bass Road, south Fort Myers. $5 (cash) or unwrapped toy. Holiday crafts, games, cookies and juice, and Santa (bring a camera). 239-432-2154 or leegov.com WinterFest » 6-8 p.m. Estero Recreation Center, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd., Estero. $5 admission, or a donation of pet supplies. Crafts, refreshments, goodie bag and a chance to see Santa. Photo opportunities. 239498-0415.

Saturday, Dec. 9 Autism Speaks Southwest Florida Walk » 9 a.m. North Collier Regional Park, 15000 Livingston Road, Naples. Autism Speaks Walk is the world’s largest autism fundraising event dedicated to improving the lives of people with autism. Registration begins at 9 a.m., opening ceremonies at 10 a.m. and walk at 10:30 a.m. 561-465-0054. autismspeaks.org Book Fair » 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Barnes & Noble at Coconut Point, 23130 Fashion Drive, Estero. Help support the Summer Reading Program of the Lee County Public Library System. Activities include storytelling, face painting and a visit from Santa. Make a purchase at Barnes & Noble at Coconut Point or south Fort Myers and mention the Friends of the Library or use Book Fair

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Breakfast with the Kringles » 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Veterans Park, 55 Homestead Road S., Lehigh Acres. $5 for ages 11 and younger, includes breakfast, crafts and present; $3 for breakfast only for ages 12 and older. Continental-style breakfast, crafts and a photo opportunity with Mr. and Mrs. Kringle. Registration required. 239-369-1521. CREW Saturday Walk » 9 a.m. CREW Marsh Hiking Trails, 4600 County Road 850, Immokalee. Join one of CREW Trust’s volunteer naturalists and explore the pine flatwoods and oak hammocks to the observation tower overlooking a 5,000-acre sawgrass marsh. No dogs. 239-657-2253. crewtrust.org Celebrate the Holidays at Cultural Park » 5-8 p.m. Cultural Park Theatre, 528 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral. Holiday decorations, caroling, Santa and more. 239-772-7037. capecoralhistoricalmusuem.org Christmas Boat Parade on Naples Bay » 6:15-8:30 p.m. Naples City Dock, 880 12th Ave. S., Naples. The parade is owned and managed by the Marine Industries Association of Collier County. You can view the parade from Pincher’s Crab Shack, Riverwalk Restaurant, Naples City Dock, Naples Landing, Kelly’s Fish House, The Boat House Restaurant and Bayview Park. It’s free to participate. Donations are appreciated. All proceeds benefit the Ricky King Foundation. miacc.org. Christmas Cookie Decorating » Noon-2 p.m. Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero. In the WINK Playland. Kids can stop by the WARO-FM 94.5 cookie decorating stations for a holiday treat they can make and eat. miromaroutlets.com Family Movie Night: “A Christmas Story” » 7 p.m. Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Free admission but suggested $10 donation per family helps fun Alliance programs. Bring lawn chairs, coolers and blankets and watch a movie under the stars. Movie starts at dusk. artinlee.org Fun and Fabulous Florida Fossil Day » 10 a.m. Collier County Library Headquarters Branch, 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Free. Did you know that you are walking around on fossils in Naples? Want to know more about millions of old shells and sharks teeth right in your back yard? Learn from three expert speakers. Plus, fossil displays, children’s activities, door prizes and refreshments. Gingerbread and Sugar Plums Holiday Tea » 2-4 p.m. The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, 280 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. Feature kid-friendly activities, including a “Kid’s Zone” with cookie decorating, craft and Santa letter writing stations. There will also be a performance by the Naples Ballet. Tickets are $125 for adults, $75 for ages 13 and younger. All proceeds benefit Make-A-Wish Southern Florida. Movement & Breath for Labor » 3-4:30 p.m. The Family Birth Center of Naples, 2930 Immokalee Road, Suite 2, Naples. $25 in advance, $30 at the door. Join Cheryl Bernardi with LifeBehold to prepare your mind and body for labor and birth through movement and breathing exercises. 239-248-7931. Register at lifebehold.com or LifeBehold@gmail.com. Alliance Youth Theatre presents “Heathers the Musical” » 3 and 8 p.m. December 9 and 10. Alliance for the Arts, Fort

calendar » Myers. $10. Based on the classic 1989 film. 239-939-2787. artinlee.org “Olaf’s Frozen Adventure” Big Golden Book Storytime » 11 a.m. Three Barnes & Noble locations: Coconut Point, 23130 Fashion Drive, Estero; Waterside Shops, 5377 Tamiami Trail Naples, and 13751 Tamiami Trail, south Fort Myers. Follow Olaf, Anna, Kristoff and Elsa through a frozen adventure to find the best holiday traditions. Activities to follow. Science Saturday » 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero. In the WINK Playland. Join Mr. Glen and his Science & Engineering team and the Sylvan Learning Center for interactive science projects. miromaroutlets.com

Sunday, Dec. 10 Santa on the Sand » 1-4 p.m. Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach. Eat lunch and play games with Santa on the beach. Admission for ages 8 and younger is one unwrapped toy. Admission to the park is $8 for vehicles of 2-8 people, $4 for single-occupant vehicles and $2 for pedestrians and bicyclists. Registration required; call 708-359-0466 or email fjgreenwood@gmail.com. The Harlem Globetrotters » 3 p.m. Germain Arena, 11000 Everblades Parkway, Estero. $26.50-$127.50. Parking is $10. The 2017 World Tour includes a star-studded roster and incredible ball handling wizardry. germainarena.com

Monday, Dec. 11 There is Something About Snakes » Noon. Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary & Audubon Blair Center, 375 Sanctuary Road W., Naples. Murray Barnhart, Corkscrew volunteer naturalist and live snake ambassador, will talk to visitors about these intriguing creatures. Meet and greet an ambassador snake. Included with regular admission, which is $14 for adults, $6 for college students, $4 for ages 6-18, free for children younger than 6.

Tuesday, Dec. 12 “Carol of the King: The Irish Dance Christmas Spectacular” » 8 p.m. Southwest Florida Event Center, 11515 Bonita Beach Road S.E., Bonita Springs. $25-$45. “Carol of the King” is led by former lead dancer from Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance and founder of Two Step Productions Justin Boros. Doors open for dinner at 6 p.m. swfleventcenter.com Naples Christmas Parade » 6-8 p.m. Broad Avenue to Third Street South to Fifth Avenue South to Eighth Street in downtown Naples. Free. 239-213-7120 or naplesgov.com/ calendar/2017-12

Wednesday, Dec. 13 The Naples Players KidzAct auditions for “Joseph & The Technicolor Dreamcoat” » December 13-14. Sugden Community Theatre, 701 Fifth Ave. S., Naples. KidzAct is holding auditions for “Joseph & The Technicolor Dreamcoat” for ages 13-18 by appointment between 4 and 7 p.m. each day. See website for requirements. 239-263-7990. naplesplayers.org.

Thursday, Dec. 14 “Michael Carbonaro…Live!” » 7:30 p.m. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. $34$54. The popular magician from TruTV’s “The Carbonaro Effect” is taking his show on the road. 239-481-4849. bbmannpah.com Tuba Christmas Concert » 6:30-7:30 p.m. Sugden Plaza on Fifth Avenue South in downtown Naples. Free. More than 70 musicians ages 11 to 80 perform holiday tunes on tubas and euphoniums. 239-692-8436 or naplesgov.com/ calendar/2017-12

Friday, Dec. 15 Homeschool Parents Seminar: Junior Money Makers Project » 7 p.m. Bella Terra Clubhouse, 20070 Bella Terra Blvd., Estero. A night of fellowship and motivation alongside Junior Money Makers Project founder Mark Tilsher. Mark is the host of the Junior Money Maker podcast, homeschool dad and a Leader Academy Commandant. juniormoneymakers.com “The Nutcracker” » 7 p.m. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. The North Fort Myers Academy for the Arts presents this annual performance. $10$30. bbmannpah.com

Saturday, Dec. 16 Breakfast with Santa » 9:30-11:30 a.m. North Fort Myers Recreation Center, 200 N. Recreation Park Way, North Fort Myers. $3 or toy donation. Continental-style breakfast, crafts, music and photo opportunity with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. 239-533-7200. Community Family and Friends Fun Festival » Noon5 p.m. Future site of Mt. Olive AME Church, 2160 Veronica Shoemaker Blvd., Fort Myers. There will be food, games, music and fellowship.

BOAT S PARADE

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Cookies and Milk with Santa » 9-11 a.m. Eagle Lakes Community Park, 11565 Tamiami Trail E., Naples. $2. 239-252-4449 or collierparks.com Freedom Pro Tennis Charity Exhibition » 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Academia Sanchez-Casal Florida, 4995 Airport Pulling Road N., Naples. Pro Tennis matches featuring Bjorn Fratangelo, Jennifer Brady and Mitchell Kruger. Tickets are $25 in advance, $35 at the door, free for ages 12 and younger, $5 for parking. Purchase at https://fvi.ticketbud.com/fvi-protennis-exhibition. 239-938-5116. fvinstitute.org Lighting of the Menorah » 7 p.m. Fisherman’s Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. Free. Celebrate Hanukkah with Chabad of Charlotte County in the lighting of the menorah. Each night, an additional light is kindled. Children will receive treats. 941-639-8721 or fishville.com. For more information, contact the Chabad at 941-833-3381 or chabadofcharlottecounty.com.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2017 » 55

« calendar “River Rose and the Magical Christmas” Storytime » 11 a.m. Three Barnes & Noble locations: Coconut Point, 23130 Fashion Drive, Estero; Waterside Shops, 5377 Tamiami Trail Naples, and 13751 Tamiami Trail, south Fort Myers. It’s Christmas Eve and River Rose wants to stay up all night to hand-deliver a note to Santa, but she and her dog fall asleep only to find they’ve been swept off on another magical adventure. Activities to follow.

Sunday, Dec. 17 Bluegrass Music » 2-5 p.m. Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. $10. artinlee.org Deck The Halls » 7 p.m. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. $29. The Gulf Coast Symphony with Fort Myers Symphonic Mastersingers, Kellyn Irish Dancers and Mark Sanders The evening starts with strolling carolers and a chamber ensemble performing in the lobby prior to the concert. The concert includes holiday favorites, Irish dancing, the lighting of the Menorah, and a visit from Santa.

Monday, Dec. 18 City of Palms Classic » December 18-23. Suncoast Credit Union Arena at Florida SouthWestern State College, 13351 FSW Parkway, south Fort Myers. Ten of the top 50 boys’ high school basketball players in the U.S. show off their hoop skills. Tickets start at $25. 239-481-4849. cityofpalmsclassic. com

Wednesday, Dec. 20 Nutrition Class » 7-8:30 p.m. The Family Birth Center of Naples, 2930 Immokalee Road, Suite 2, Naples. Nutrition for pregnancy, lactation, postpartum and family. 239-594-0400. Register by emailing FBCNaples@gmail.com.

Thursday, Dec. 21 Holiday Crafts for Kids » 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Rookery Bay NERR and Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Road, Naples. Make wildlife crafts, such as sea-themed ornaments and a cabbage palm reindeer. Created for ages 6-12. Free with Environmental Learning Center admission, which is $5 for adults, $3 for ages 6-12, free for children younger than 6. In celebration of Winter Solstice, Rookery Bay offers buyone-get-one-free admission on December 21.

Friday, Dec. 22 Cirque Dreams: Holidaze » December 22-23. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. $27-$67. Shows are 7:30 p.m. December 22 and 2 and 8 p.m. December 23. 239-481-4849. bbmannpah.com

Saturday, Dec. 23 “Santa’s Magic Key” Storytime » 11 a.m. Three Barnes & Noble locations: Coconut Point, 23130 Fashion Drive, Estero; Waterside Shops, 5377 Tamiami Trail Naples, and 13751 Tamiami Trail, south Fort Myers. In this unforgettable holiday

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story, a boy realizes on Christmas Eve that his new house does not have a chimney. With the post office closed and Santa coming by the end of the night, he has no way of telling Santa. But when the boy finds a mysterious key, he’ll soon discover just how this key will solve his problem. Activities to follow.

Monday, Dec. 25 “A Christmas Story” » 11:45 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Broadway Palm 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. $30 for ages 12 and younger, $60-$70 for adults, includes lunch or dinner and show. Lunch starts at 11:45 a.m. with matinee at 1:15 p.m. and dinner starts at 5:30 p.m. for the 7:30 p.m. show. broadwaypalm.com

Thursday, Dec. 28 Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker » 3 and 7 p.m. Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway Fort Myers, FL 33919. $31.68-$187.50. bbmannpah.com

Saturday, Dec. 30 Kids Day » 10 a.m.-noon. Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero. In WINK Playland. Kids from toddlers to age 12 can do fun activities and receive free treats. miromaroutlets.com

Sunday, Dec. 31 New Year’s Eve Fireworks » 7:30-8 p.m. Naples Pier, 25 12th Ave. S., Naples. Free. Ring in New Year’s with a fireworks display launched from a barge near the pier. 239-213-7120 or naplesgov. com/calendar/2017-12 Fishermen’s Village New Year’s Eve » 5 p.m.-midnight. Fisherman’s Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. Free. A family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration with face painting, hair glitter, LED juggling, plate spinning, balloon creations, music and fireworks at midnight. 941-639-8721 or fishville.com

Wednesday, Jan. 3 Engine Demonstration » 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Koreshan State Historic Site, 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero. Free with park admission. Meet at the Generator Building in the Industrial Area of Koreshan State Historic Site for a demonstration of the Fairbanks Morse diesel engine. floridastateparks.org/park/koreshan

Thursday, Jan. 4 Florida Cracker Cowboy Cookin’ » 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Koreshan State Historic Site, 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero. Free with park admission. Saunter back in time and sample Cracker Cowboy Cooking at the Cast Iron Café, where cowboy recipes like Hoppin’ John and corn bread are prepared using an historic Dutch oven and the 1800s wood-burning oven once used in the Koreshan Settlement Bakery. floridastateparks.org/park/koreshan

Find more events on swflparentchild.com

voices »

Rodrigo Gamboa-Dominguez is the director of Challenged Minds Learning Center in Fort Myers, a graduate of the Edison College School of Nursing (now Florida SouthWestern State College) and the father of two children ages 1 and 3. Contact the center at 239-275-2031.

GUEST COLUMN

Insider tips for choosing child care T

here are very few moments more emotionally stressful than the day we leave our child in school for the first time. For many that day comes on the first day of kindergarten, but for most this day arrives much sooner. As parents we have become increasingly educated regarding the benefits of enrolling our children in a quality child care center, whether as toddlers or as preschoolers. The importance of child care centers as a child’s first learning center has grown as well. With this in mind, I’d like to share some tips from the inside to help you choose the best center possible. CURRICULUM Most parents know to ask the basic questions (hours of operation, tuition, etc.) but fail to ask the most important. Ask the center, “What curriculum do you use?” This is a question applicable to all ages, even infants, as any respectable child care center will have a curriculum for every age group. This is imperative, as by age 3 roughly 85 percent of the brain’s core structure will be formed. Haven’t you wondered why it’s so much easier to learn another language at a young age? Furthermore, you should always

ask to see the lesson plan. The lesson plan should be up to date and readily available. A center that does a poor job of providing this is a center that likely does a poor job of teaching your children.

WALK THE YARD Another great question to ask is to see the playground areas your child will be using. Physically inspecting these areas by walking around them is by far the best route, as this allows you to see any possible safety hazards or concerns that you may have missed otherwise. Does the playground equipment appear safe and in good condition? Is the fence secured for small children? Does the area appear to be properly maintained and clean? TEACHERS By far the best way to get an adequate impression about the people taking care of your child is to speak with them. Ask them how long they have been working in child care and whether or not they like working with kids. These may seem like ridiculous questions, but I promise the teachers won’t mind, and their responses will go a long way toward

helping you form your decision. In addition, ask the director if all staff members have had their required background checks completed and all educational requirements fulfilled. CHECK INSPECTIONS The state of Florida has provided the public with the ability to look up every inspection, and the results, for child care centers in our communities. All Florida Department of Children and Families-licensed child care centers receive several surprise inspections each year, and these inspections provide vital information regarding any violations or possible violations. The site is easy to use and can be found at cares.myflfamilies.com/publicsearch. The importance of choosing your child care center is no less important than choosing your child’s first school. A good center will put your child on the path for educational success in addition to allowing your child to make friends and connections that can last a lifetime. Unfortunately, life sometimes makes it so parents don’t have the luxury of time when making this decision, but with these tips even the most anxious parents can feel reassured in their decision.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2017 » 57

» a father’s view

Jim Dwyer is a Southwest Florida father of three boys.

JIM DW Y ER

‘Model’ student

What does it take to round out an intelligent boy who is only interested in sports?

y son Tiernan spends all of his time reading about, talking about, watching or playing sports. It seems that it is all he wants to do and is so much of an obsession that it almost chokes out anything else. Of course, life is about much more than sports, and I hoped that Tiernan would perhaps venture out into some of these other pursuits. I thought perhaps he would find interest in playing an instrument. Didn’t work. Drawing or painting? Not for him. Maybe literature would do the trick. Nope. Here we are with a very smart young man who has but one perceptible interest in life, and now he is a high school junior staring down college applications. What was I to do? How would this singleminded young man represent himself as a well-rounded human, ready for study in a fine liberal arts university? It turns out that I didn’t have to worry at all. As school let out one afternoon at

58 » DECEMBER 2017 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

the end of last school year, Tiernan was looking to fill the time between his school day and some sort of sports practice. My son has a favorite teacher, as perhaps many of his peers do, and he walked by her room and decided to pop in to say hello. On that day it turns out that there was a Model United Nations meeting underway being led by the teacher. She invited him to stay, and he did. It was a meaningless way to occupy some time before practice, and when Tiernan mentioned it, it seemed like that was the end of it. I asked and probed, but it just didn’t seem like there was anything to it. You can imagine my surprise when I found out that this year Tiernan has been attending Model UN meetings. His teacher encouraged him to continue, and so he did. He told me that he wasn’t sure he would be any good at it, because he hates to talk. This kid never stops talking, and I gently reminded him of that fact. “Yeah, but that’s when I am with my boys, not strangers.” Ah, the typical fear of public speaking. I

was sure that if he stuck with it, he would be fine, and this was a great way to work through that natural fear. That was the last I heard of it until he came home recently and told me that he needed a check for a deposit. What was it for? Tiernan was selected as a delegate to join his Model UN team at a conference in Boston in the spring. Tiernan went from stumbling in to a meeting, to participating in the club, becoming a delegate in local conferences, and finally becoming a delegate to a national conference in a couple of months. Now he happily and of his own volition is spending his free time researching countries, issues and positions. He is preparing to represent the positions of these countries and debate them. Thanks to a teacher who cared, he is not only expanding his college application resume, but also growing as a human being. He is becoming that well-rounded person I had hoped. Or maybe he always was and just needed to find the right outlet.

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SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2017 » 59

Golisano Children’s Hospital provides families the quality health care their children deserve—close to home. Conveniently located on the grounds of HealthPark Medical Center, our state-of-the-art children’s hospital serves families from Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Hendry and Glades counties. We are a true children’s hospital that focuses on the needs of families. Features include: • 128 private patient rooms • 64 private Neonatal Intensive Care Unit rooms • Ronald McDonald House family room • More than 70 pediatric specialists and 400 speciallytrained pediatric nurses • One of the top ranked Regional Perinatal Intensive Care Centers in Florida • A diagnostic and MRI suite with pediatric sedation center • Pediatric emergency department • The area’s only dedicated hematology/oncology program Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida 9981 S. HealthPark Drive Fort Myers, FL 33908

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