S W F L PA R E N T C H I L D. C O M
NOVEMBER 2019
Sick Child? Same day sick appointments available Accepting New Patients FORT MYERS � � �- �� CAPE CORAL � � ��-���� LEHIGH ACRES � � �- ��
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Let OUR Family Take Care of YOUR Family Physician-Owned. Patient-Centered
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.
Physician-Owned. Patient-Centered
www.ppcswfl.com | 239.275.5522
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2019 » 3
Coa
BE A PART OF OUR CAMPAIGN GOAL $375,000
· Improving access to Sports for working parents. · Providing an after school home court practice facility. · Students deserve access to a sports and performance based facility. · Providing students with a quality education of Mind, Body and Soul. GOAL: This improvement to our campus will have a far reaching impact on our students, families, team members and visitors to our community for many years to come.
THE NEW HEART & SOUL FITNESS AND PERFORMANCE COMPLEX C O N S T R U C T I O N T O B E G I N FA L L 2 0 1 9
Bonita Springs Charter School 25380 Bernwood Drive | Bonita Springs, FL 34135 | (239) 992-6932 For more information about sponsorship opportunities: www.bonitaspringscharter.org 4 » NOVEMBER 2019 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM
contents »
swfl
parent&child
17
Features
25
In Every Issue
27 aiming for broadway
17 education
Southwest Florida kids find opportunity in major theater productions and national tours.
See why Zoomers still appeals to teenagers
19 dining out
30 dining with kids
42 safety corner
See Jean Le Boeuf’s list of cheap eats, where you can feed a grown adult for $10
One of the best things parents can do is have dinner together. Here’s why. Plus, find out where kids eat free (or nearly free).
If your kids love ATVs, be sure to follow these safety tips
20 in the kitchen
47 travel
Pumpkin isn’t just for lattes, but if you must, try this recipe at home
36 special fun From sensory night at the movies to improv and play groups, explore local offerings for children with special needs.
S W F L PA R E N
25 teens
Sensory paths and rooms give students ‘brain breaks’
Explore Disney’s new Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge with a mom who’s been there
23 kid stuff
57 voices
The IMAG and C’mon both host very different space exhibits
Link between nutrition and childhood cancers prompts change
TCHILD.COM NOVEMBER
2019
Other Departments 7 8 9 11 13
editor’s note our contributors online me time 5 things
14 43 50 51 58
fyi family album around town calendar last look
PHOTO BY AMAN DA
INSCORE
On the Cover
Olivia Grace Hamilton, 3, plays at Manuel’s Branch Neighborhood Park in Fort Myers. Her adoptive parents call her a miracle. She was never expected to speak, but she easily chatters with older children at the playground, impressive for any 3-year-old. And her family is impressive, too. Scott and Cherrie Hamilton have 20 children, 14 still at home, all with special needs. The News-Press wrote about the family in 2017. Read more at swflparentchild.com.
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2019 » 5
6 » NOVEMBER 2019 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM
editor's note »
parent &child
swfl
S W F L PA R E N T C H I L D. C O M
Volume 20, Issue 11 Dedicated to serving the families of Lee and Collier counties 2442 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33901 swflparentchild.com Regional VP, Sales 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 Jean Le Boeuf, Tanni Haas, Brenda Hernandez, Noel Konken, Pamela McCabe, Ed Mullen, Andrea Stetson, Jennifer Thomas Photographer Amanda Inscore Vice President/Advertising Sales Nancy M. Solliday Specialty Publications Team Coordinator Dennis Wright dennis@swflparentchild.com Advertising Account Executives Gloria Estrada-Page (239) 478-3607 gestrada@fortmyer.gannett.com Nicole Holey (239) 281-6455 nholey@fortmyer.gannett.com
Thank you G
ratitude makes the world better. When I’m stressed or otherwise in a bad mood, listing things to be grateful about turns my mood around. Even when I begrudge the blaring sun is shining or I’m breathing, that leads me to the next thing and the next until I’m feeling pretty lucky. Occasionally I’m even successful at getting the rest of the family to do it at dinner, though admittedly, it’s been some time. That’s one of the things I love about Thanksgiving. It’s a reminder to find Luna gratitude, to be thankful, to share your own and good fortune. Cosmo I also love the big Thanksgiving dinners we host in our home. Friends and family gather around an enormous table (actually two kitchen tables side by side and covered to look like one). Except the kids — they get their own table on the lanai. The conversation is lively yet friendly. And when it’s all over, I’m exhausted, and my heart feels full. Readers, you often make me feel that way, too. Whenever you tell me about some way that the magazine made your life better, even in a small way, it fills my heart. You have my gratitude. Thank you for reading. Thank you for telling me how a particular story affected you. Thank you for making suggestions and asking questions. May you all have a Thanksgiving filled with love and good fortune. PHOTO BY BRIAN TIETZ
Part of the USA TODAY Network
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.
Pamela Smith Hayford, Editor
Member of
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 » NOVEMBER 2019 » 7
MIROMAR OUTLETS
» our contributors
®
Voted the Best Factory Outlet Mall, Best Shopping Experience and Best Place to Buy Shoes in Southwest Florida
Meet the contributors to this month’s issue of Southwest Florida Parent & Child magazine.
NOVEMBER EVENTS LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Saturdays from 4 to 7 p.m. & Sundays from 2 to 5 p.m. CAR CRUISE-IN Sunday, November 3 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. near PLAYLAND, lakeside See your favorite classic, exotic and custom cars. VETERANS DAY SIDEWALK SALE Friday, November 8 thru Monday, November 11 Enjoy additional savings on already low factory outlet prices. FRIDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES Friday, November 8 6 to 9 p.m. in the Restaurant Piazza The Ex-Bachelors bring on Memphis soul and rock n’ roll!
MOMS APPRECIATION DAY Wednesday, November 20 10 a.m. to Noon PLAYLAND in Moms, enjoy a free goodie from le macaron french pastries when your children attend Kids Crafts.
Tanni Haas • Why Family Dinners
Matter Tanni Haas is a writer and professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences, and Disorders at the City University of New York – Brooklyn College.
FRIDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES Friday, November 22 6 to 9 p.m. in the Restaurant Piazza The Echo Band performs the oldies with a modern twist!
Noel Konken • In the Kitchen • Noel Konken, a registered dietitian, is a clinical pediatric dietitian at Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida.
KIDS DAY Saturday, November 23 10 a.m. to Noon PLAYLAND in Toddlers to 12-year-olds participate in fun activities and JDFR COMMUNITY ONE WALK receive free pizza, ice cream and Saturday, November 9 face painting. Registration starts at 7:30 a.m. Walk begins at 9 a.m., lakeside BEFORE MIDNIGHT AT MIROMAR OUTLETS near Playland Thursday, November 28 Help us create a world without type 1 diabetes (T1D). The money Stores open at 8 p.m.! raised will support life-changing Kick-off the Holiday shopping season Thanksgiving night with breakthroughs that give hope incredible door-buster offers to everyone impacted by this and the opportunity to win disease. spectacular giveaways. SCIENCE SATURDAY PHOTOS WITH SANTA Saturday, November 9 Friday, November 29 thru 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, December 23 PLAYLAND in Make an everlasting memory and Kids learn by doing interactive receive a photo with Santa at science and engineering Miromar Outlets. projects – from making slime to constructing the solar system! FREE KIDS CRAFTS FAMILY YOGA WITH KATHRYN Saturday, November 16 10 a.m. in Playland BYOM (bring your own mat) to this FREE 45-minute beginners’ yoga class for families.
Jean Le Boeuf • Dining Out • Jean Le
Boeuf is the pseudonym used by a local food lover who dines at restaurants anonymously and without warning, with meals paid for by The News-Press and Naples Daily News. Follow the critic at facebook.com/ jeanleboeufswfl or @JeanLeBoeuf on Twitter and Instagram.
Ed Mullen • Voices • Ed Mullen is
the founder and chairman of Pan-Florida Challenge. He resides in Southwest Florida with his wife, Sue.
Andrea Stetson • Special Fun, Kid Stuff and Teens • Andrea Stetson writes for magazines and newspapers throughout Southwest Florida. She has also been a news producer and writer at television stations in Fort Myers, Miami and Scranton. Andrea lives in North Naples with her husband, daughter, dog and eight bunnies. Her son is a student at Georgia Tech.
Every Wednesday 10 a.m. to Noon PLAYLAND in Our new Kids Crafts Reward Card is good for a $10 Miromar Outlets gift card after your fifth visit.
Jennifer Thomas • Travel: Galaxy’s Edge • Jennifer Thomas is a freelance travel writer who has extensively explored the U.S. and destinations abroad. A journalism graduate from Bowling Green State University and an Air Force veteran, she is the owner of the FSR Ventures public relations firm and Beauty Results PR. Jennifer lives in Fort Myers with husband Bill, daughter Kylie, and golden retriever Rosebud.
Party Packages available at MiromarOutlets.com/play MiromarOutlets.com/play.
Shop over 140 stores up to 70% off and dine at our wide array of restaurants! Miromar Outlets Gift Cards* are valid at all Outlet Stores and Restaurants and can be purchased at MiromarOutlets.com and the Mall Office or Visitor Information Kiosk.
Copyright © 2019, Miromar Development Corporation. Miromar Outlets is a registered service mark of Miromar Development Corporation.
8 » NOVEMBER 2019 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM
1119-2191
(239) 948-3766 • MiromarOutlets.com • Mon.-Sat.: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. • Sun.: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. I-75, Exit 123, Corkscrew Road, in Estero, between Naples & Fort Myers
online »
swflparentchild.com Get the latest event information and family news every day on our family-friendly site.
Things to do over Thanksgiving break
Get SWFL Parent & Child anywhere at any time LIKE US ON FACEBOOK facebook.com/swflparentchild
One. Entire. Week. Off. If the week-
FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @swflparentchild
long Thanksgiving break is giving you the beginnings of a panic attack,
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come visit us on swflparentchild. com. We have a calendar full of familyfriendly things to do and suggestions on where to go, like 10 great hikes in Southwest
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Florida, and even quick travel suggestions. The kids
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will absolutely think you’re the coolest.
Independent PK3-12 College Prep School
AN OPPORTUNITY FOR EXCELLENCE Need-Based Merit Scholarship Testing NOVEMBER 18 or DECEMBER 3
New students seeking admission for the 2020-2021 academic year, who are currently in fifth or eighth-grade are eligible to apply. Register in advance by visiting our website or call 239.415.8945 www.canterburyfortmyers.org
A TRADITION OF
100%
ACCEPTANCES TO COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2019 » 9
GET YOUR PRE-BABY BODY BACK WITH A
MOMMY
MAKEOVER
THE ONLY CHOICE
Robin Dawn Dance Academy
Est. 1975
Enroll For Fall Classes Classes Starting August 12th Half Off Registration Fee’s
Highly Experienced and Skilled Instructors
VOTED FORT MYERS and CAPE CORAL’S BEST DANCE STUDIO!
Come Join Our Family of Dancers Tap • Jazz • HipHop • Lyrical • Ballet • Pointe • Musical Theater • Acrobatics • Contortion • Circus Equipment
932 Country Club Blvd., Cape Coral
239.549.0827
www.RobinDawnAcademy.com
READY, SET, SMILE. DENTAL CHECK-UPS $ 99 BRACES 25% OFF
Contours and tightens the abdomen. Lifts and shapes breasts.
Ft. Myers Cape Coral Naples
239-482-1900 | Garramone.com 12998 South Cleveland Avenue, Fort Myers, Florida 33907 / Ralph Garramone, Plastic Surgeon
10 » NOVEMBER 2019 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM
239.567.9480 239.443.5988 239.963.1135
mainstreetsmiles.com *MUST MENTION THIS OFFER TO RECEIVE DISCOUNT. NEW PATIENTS ONLY. DOES NOT APPLY TO DOWN PAYMENT AND CANNOT BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH ANY OTHER OFFER, INSURANCE, OR REDUCED-FEE PROGRAM. THE PATIENT & ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAM OR TREATMENT WHICH IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HRS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED, REDUCED-FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT. LIC#DN13483, LIC#DN18083, LIC#DN17541, LIC#DN20050, ADA 0150, 0272, 1120, 1208. DRS. MARVIN BECKER, D.D.S. AND DONALD A. GALLO, D.M.D. DOES NOT APPLY TO DOWN PAYMENT, CANNOT BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH CERTAIN INSURANCE. **INCLUDES COMPLETE SET OF BRACES FOR KIDS & ADULTS, INITIAL EXAM, FOLLOW-UP VISITS, PATIENT RECORDS & RETAINERS. NOT VALID ON TREATMENT ALREADY BEGUN. INSURANCE PATIENT DISCOUNTS MAY VARY. SPECIALTY RETAINERS OR BRACKETS ADDITIONAL. FREE CONSULT INCLUDED. MAY NOT BE COMBINED W/ANY OTHER OFFER, DISCOUNT, INSURANCE OR REDUCED-FEE PROGRAM. FINANCING AVAILABLE ON APPROVED CREDIT. VALID AT PARTICIPATING OFFICES ONLY. PATIENT & ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAM OR TREATMENT PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF & WITHIN 72 HRS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED, REDUCED-FEE SERVICE, EXAM OR TREATMENT. LIC DN#20050. ADA9310. OFFER EXPIRES 60 DAYS FROM RECEIPT.
Coa
me time » Small packages Plenty of room for the essentials. Stash your items in style with this crossbody buckle bag in Italian suede. $158 at J.Crew.
SUEDE
STYLE Suede is taking center stage this season. Add this tried-andtrue look to your fall wardrobe in stylish dresses, shoes and more. — USA TODAY NETWORK
Room for everything The Pippa leather tote by Rebecca Minkoff also comes in black and red. $298 at Nordstrom.
Animal attraction Style and comfort? These Lilian microsuede slip-on sneakers by Universal Thread have it all. $29.99 at Target.
Perfect for holidays
NIGHT
DATE
The faux suede button-front skirt pairs great with a colorful blouse. $79.50 at Loft.
This date night works whether it’s just the two of you, a moms’ night out or table for one, because humans naturally bond over food, especially when everyone’s learning something new. Kitchen Social’s group cooking classes are a great way to connect while having fun. And you can bring your own beer or wine. Most classes this month are around $59.99 per person. Get details at kitchensocial.com. SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2019 » 11
LANE PEDIATRICS Concierge-Style Direct Primary Care
New location in south Fort Myers!
The highest level of care, provided when and where it works for YOU. • Personalized medical care centered around your child • Direct access to your child’s doctor via phone, email, or video chat • Extended, unhurried visits • Evenings & weekends
(239) 908-3593 www.lanepediatrics.com
What is Direct Primary Care? A relationship between the patient, family, and their doctor, without the limitations placed by insurance or the impersonalization of a large corporate practice. For an affordable monthly membership fee, you have direct, unrestricted access to your physician whenever you need her.
Excellent academics rooted and grounded in God's word. • PreK-3 through 8th Grade • VPK Provider • A unique and caring community • Ideal class sizes • outstanding curriculum • Excellent, prolessional teaching stall TO SCHEDULE A PRIVATE TOUR OF OUR SCHOOL CALL US TODAY
239-482-7007
SUMMIT CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 9065 Ligon Court. Fort Myers. FL 33908 Near the corner of Summerlin and Bass
www.summitchristianschool.org 12 » NOVEMBER 2019 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM
5 things » E ONLIN WAY GIVEinA one at W
d.com
il rentch
swflpa
Game NIGHT Revive this traditional family bonding time with a few new challenges.
Goat Lords Countdown Developed by Punta Gorda dad Alex Andreae and his young son, Countdown takes hide-and-seek and expands it tenfold. Housed in a high-tech half-orb, Countdown can be hidden just about anywhere. Find it — and solve the Simon Says-type light game — before the timer goes off to win. Beeps and lights help change the difficulty level. Pressure Games has a crowdfunding campaign underway at wefunder.com/pressure. games; manufacturing is expected by the end of the year. Follow their progress at pressuregames.com.
Chickapiglets In this matching game with a twist, everyone works together to help Little Joe Chickapig win. Every time Little Joe finds two animals that create a hybrid, he can move. But when he slips in poop, the cow moooves. For ages 4 and older. $19.99 list price. Available at Target, target.com.
The cute little furry guys you see at the petting zoo are now in a hilarious card game that’ll have your whole family shrieking with laughter. Players match the goats — and challenge and duel each other to be Lord of the Goats. For ages 7 and older, but we know a few younger kids who think it’s a riot, too. $19.99 at gatwickgames.com; also available on Amazon.com.
Hoyle Seal Squad In this game by Bicycle, players ages 6 to 8 work in teams. Your team’s seals must collect as many fish as they can before the walrus reaches the fish pile. Great for short attention spans, as it can be played in less than 15 minutes. $5.99 at bicyclecards.com.
Pictionary Air As if drawing on paper weren’t hard enough. Now there’s Pictionary Air, where players draw in the air and the image appears on screen. If playing with younger kids, you can extend the round timer in “Play” mode to give them more time to read the cards and find clues they recognize. $19.99 at Target, target.com.
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2019 » 13
« fyi
#StandUp and win The David Lawrence Center in Naples launched a multimedia contest for middle and high school students at the Let’s Talk Mental Health Family Night on October 16 to encourage kids to get involved in the local conversation about mental health. Through short essay, poem, song and video submissions to the #StandUp Multimedia Contest, youth are invited to express, in their own words, their suggestions to reduce stigma and increase understanding of mental health or substance use in their school and community. Submissions should convey how students can #StandUp for themselves, their friends or others in their community. “With 50 percent of all lifetime cases of mental illness beginning by age 14, the time is now to intervene to help our youth grow healthy minds, develop effective coping strategies and create meaningful change in how we discuss and address mental health,” says CEO Scott Burgess in a kick-off announcement. “This contest is a means to let our children be part of those healthy conversations and let their voices be heard on this important, life-saving topic.” Deadline is January 30. Get details at standupcontest.org.
NFMAA alumni invited to dance in anniversary ‘Nutcracker’
A is for author: Child artist Nalin Isme releases first book
To celebrate its 10th anniversary performance of ‘The Nutcracker’ at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, the North Fort Myers Academy for the Arts invites dance alumni back to participate in the anniversary performance December 13. The public arts magnet school for grades K-8 moved its show to Mann Hall after four years of selling out multiple performances at their own facility. To get involved, alumni families are urged to email director Lori Madl at loriam@leeschools.net.
This fall, young artist Nalin Isme published his first book, “Alphatales: Animal Tales Letters A-D,” a collection of short stories about animals experiencing some common challenges and how they conquered them. Alvin the shy alligator learns to be confident. Barry the very big bear learns to be brave. You might have seen Nalin on the cover of SW FL Parent & Child. He was featured in April 2018 for his stunning, award-winning artwork. $16.99. Available from LifeRich Publishing, Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
Pediatric Dentistry of Florida adds orthodontics Pediatric Dentistry of Florida, Dr. Tim M. Verwest, DMD & Associates now offers orthodontic services in addition to pediatric dentistry. Dr. Joseph Whitesides, an orthodontist, is joining the team. The practice is also offering two tickets to a theme park for referrals. For details, visit drverwest.com or call 239-482-2722.
14 » NOVEMBER 2019 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM
Camera bugs welcome The Fort Myers Camera Club is calling all photography enthusiasts, inviting all ages and skill levels to join a meeting to check out the club. Members meet 7 to 9 p.m. Fridays, November 1 through April 3, at Cypress Lake United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, 8570 Cypress Lake Drive, south Fort Myers. All skill levels are welcome. The club offers mentor programs, outings, competitions, exhibitions and guest lectures. Get more information at fortmyerscc.com.
Contests put calls out for young artists We’ve learned of two upcoming opportunities for young artists in Southwest Florida: » The Hot Works Fine Art Show & Fine Craft Shows put a call out for entries to the next Youth Art Competition. The contest is divided by age group: grades K-8 or ages 5-13 and grades 6-12 or ages 13-19. Get details at hotworks.org/ applications; there’s a $3 fee, maximum of two entries per student. The arts and crafts show will be at the JetBlue Park on January 4 and 5. » The Alliance for the Arts, the Dunbar Festival Committee and The Black History Society invite Lee County students in grades K-12 to submit a painting or drawing for the Martin Luther King Jr. Youth Art Contest Exhibit. The work must reflect one of three themes that characterized King’s life and work: love, peace or unity. Entries must be submitted by December 18. A formal show of the exhibition is January 20. Prizes of $50 to $100 will be awarded. Get contest forms at artinlee.org/mlkcontest or call 239-939-2787.
Rasmussen Family Dental opens second location Rasmussen Family Dental expanded with a second location and an additional practitioner. The Cape Coral practice bought that of Dr. Ronald Tornwall at 17968 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers. Dr. Tornwall is retiring while Dr. Brett T. Goldstein is joining the practice.
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2019 » 15
« fyi And the Golden Baby Shoe Award goes to... The Golden Baby Shoe Awards honor people who improve the lives of pregnant women or babies in Lee, Collier, Glades and Hendry counties. Hosted by the Healthy Start Coalition of Southwest Florida with the Golisano Children’s Hospital, the awardees were to be honored at a brunch in late October. The Lifetime Achievement Award goes to Dr. Karysse Trandem, of A Women’s Place. Additional awards were given to Anna Stephanz, child life specialist at Golisano Children’s Hospital; Cathy Scott, lactation consultant at Gulf Coast Medical Center; Lina Diaz-Conte, social worker supervisor, Golisano Children’s Hospital; Peggy Baxter, registered nurse with the Florida Department of Health-Hendry & Glades; Samantha Vasquez, maternal assistance program case manager at SalusCare; Stephanie DeRushia, registered nurse and case manager at Healthy Start-Lee Health; Dr. Thomas Beckett, of Total Women’s Care, and Vanessa Guzman, NICU medical social worker at Golisano Children’s Hospital.
16 » NOVEMBER 2019 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM
Christmas cards made by kids help raise money for kids in SWFL An alligator wearing a Santa hat, orange trees decorated with colorful lights and a wreath of berries are some of the Christmas card designs created by students at Redlands Christian Migrant Association schools and child development centers in Immokalee, Wimauma and Homestead, and they’re available for purchase. The nonprofit RCMA serves children of rural poor and migrant families in 21 Florida counties, and the cards help support its programs. Forty designs are available for exclusive use by individuals or businesses on a first-come first-served basis, and three designs are available for everyone. Exclusive designs require a minimum purchase of 100 cards for $150. For the three general designs, packs of 10 with envelopes are $15. The cards can be viewed and ordered at bit.ly/rcmacards. Order deadline is December 13.
Turn milk cartons into money Schools can turn trash into cash in the Carton 2 Garden contest. The contest encourages entrants to find creative ways to reuse milk and juice cartons in the school garden (or use them to create a school garden). Some past winners have created vertical gardens. One established a way station for monarch butterflies on their migration between Mexico and Canada. Grand prize is $5,000. Deadline is April 1. Educators who register get lesson plans, tips and advice from KidsGardening, a resource for garden-based educators, and Evergreen Packaging. Get information at carton2garden.com.
education »
PHOTO BY ANDREW WEST
BRAIN
Sarah Klempka, 7, a second-grader at Three Oaks Elementary School, participates in the sensory path at the school.
BREAKS Sensory paths and rooms give students the ‘brain break’ they need to focus in class. BY PAMELA MCCABE
unter Hakes takes a deep breath as he steps from the letter “F” to “G” in an alphabet-themed hopscotch game at Three Oaks Elementary School in south Lee County. As he makes sure his feet land in the center of the circles, he reads the letters aloud. Behind him, classmates hop on one foot, spin around in circles and stretch out into a yoga move known as the warrior pose. This wasn’t P.E. or recess but an example of how some Lee County schools are encouraging kids to take brain breaks with active, safe play —
something educators say is helping kids in the classroom. At Three Oaks, it’s called a “sensory path.” School social worker Dolores Loftus says it “is basically an obstacle course that can be either painted on the ground like this one or taped on school floors, and it has a lot of different elements where students get to spin, jump, hop, balance.” She was inspired to create the pathway at Three Oaks after watching a YouTube video over the summer. With the help of her three daughters — Taylah, 7, Kendall, 10, and Arden, 11 — she spent a week bringing the sidewalk to life with bright colors. It includes zig-zag balance activities, opportunities to count numbers and
recite the alphabet, and, of course, jump up high and stretch down low. “… A lot of these elements help students with emotional regulation, students that are fidgety that need a brain break, so classes can come out here as a whole class and do it all together or do it individually with some students who may have some sensory processing disorders, like ADHD or autism,” Loftus says. ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. In children, this could mean it is difficult for them to stay focused on a classroom lesson, or they may act fidgety or impulsive. Since the start of the school year, teachers have noted that their students seem more focused after a trip through the course, with Loftus saying it’s help-
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2019 » 17
« education (continued)
Safe play districtwide Other schools in Lee County are picking up on the trend. Loftus, who also serves as a social worker at Three Oaks Middle and Rayma C. Page Elementary schools, is helping other schools build their own sensory pathways. Among them is Lehigh Elementary School. The walkway chosen for the obstacle course is under a covering, so students can use it rain or shine. And, like Three Oaks, it will be open to all students at the school. “We found, for instance, especially with the younger students, they need to move, move, move a lot,” says Assistant Principal Jackson Morgan. “This gives them an opportunity to do that in an organized fashion with an academic focus.”
18 » NOVEMBER 2019 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM
But the sidewalk paint job is just the start for Lehigh. Last year, the school added a unit, or class, of special needs students who have been diagnosed with a range of disorders that could benefit from sensory play. “We found that they have a whole set of needs we have never met before,” explains Morgan. “Things like the sensory path help meet these needs in a safe way.” The school is seeking grant money to help create and stock an underwaterthemed sensory room, which will be painted in calming blue and green colors, feature touch-and-feel texture spaces, comfy pillows and all sorts of activities to help engage and calm down students. A similar room was created at Tropic Isles Elementary School in North Fort Myers, which opened its “Blue Room” in 2017 with the help of a $1,500 donation from the Metro-McGregor Kiwanis Club. In October, Heights Elementary School in Fort Myers was set to open its room — a rainforest-themed “Movement Room” that was made possible by donations from staff, parents and the Kiwanis group. Assistant Principal Anika Carter says it’s “a calming room” focused on “purposeful play so students could return to the learning environment.” The room was inspired by two teachers — Danielle Baxter and Fallon Lakatos. They wanted to make sure the room addressed all the possible needs of a student, whether they needed something visual, the sensation of a hug or something to manipulate, like Play-Doh. A mural features hidden texture pieces that students can feel, and the room includes a “cozy canoe,” a tunnel to climb through, a tent, various puzzles PHOTO BY ANDREW WEST
ing kids hit the “reset” button, especially when they’re having a bad day or tackling a complicated lesson. Zoe Klusacek, who teaches second grade at Three Oaks, calls the sensory path a nice addition to the school. “It helps them calm down, it gets them some practice using their brain — all parts of the brain, I should say — and it’s fun,” she says. “And when they come back, they’re all settled and ready to go.” One recent Wednesday, she brought her entire class through the pathway to burn off some energy. It was during that active “brain break” that 7-year-old Hunter could be seen taking a slow, methodical approach to a game of hopscotch. “It is very hard for me because it is one of the first times I’ve done it,” he said. “Hopscotch is really hard for me because I don’t know how to really do it.” Klusacek chimes in: “Remember, everything is hard before it’s …” “Easy,” Hunter responds with a smile. “That’s right,” the teacher says. “You keep practicing, and it gets easier.”
Hunter Angelora, 7, a secondgrader at Three Oaks Elementary School in south Lee County, participates in the sensory path at the school.
and even a trampoline. If students are nonverbal, they can use various bulletin boards that spell out words and sentences, such as “it feels soft” or “it feels rough.” In addition to lights, sounds and textures, the room features an obstacle course to help students burn off energy. Although the room is geared toward students who have a difficult time selfregulating, or have problems finding ways to calm down and refocus when they feel overwhelmed, any kid on campus can use it. And that seems to be a key point made at the schools that have created these sensory spaces. “Everyone can benefit from it,” explains Loftus, the social worker who painted the pathway at Three Oaks. Initially, researchers were focused on kids with special needs, but she says they are now seeing great results for “every single kid,” whether they have been diagnosed on the autism spectrum or are a general education student. “You can do it as a class. You can do it individually, when kids are acting up or having a hard day,” Loftus said. “They can come and do it and, again, by the end they’re refocused. It’s a reset.” As for students, they think it’s just a fun break to the school day. “We really enjoy it,” says Three Oaks second-grader Kiptyn Heisler. Pointing to the obstacle course, the 7-year-old adds: “We enjoy the part right here near the end, the alphabet (hopscotch), because it is more fun because you get to do more stuff and exercise your legs more on that.”
dining out »
Jean Le Boeuf is the pseudonym used by a local food lover who dines at restaurants anonymously and without warning, with meals paid for by The News-Press and Naples Daily News. Follow the critic at facebook.com/jeanleboeufswfl or @JeanLeBoeuf on Twitter and Instagram.
CHEAP EATS 6 restaurants where $10 goes a deliciously long way.
C
heap” has gotten a bad rap. The word’s meaning is actually quite noble: something worth more than its cost. A featherweight that punches like a heavy hitter. A $5 sandwich that happily carries you through till dinner. Cheap, to me, is a wonderful thing. And these six Fort Myers restaurants do cheap deliciously.
September 2015, its banh mi started at ($7.99), pork-chop sandwiches ($5.99), $3.75. These aren’t sliders. These are wings and fries ($6.99). Save room for hearty sandwiches built from layers of the banana pudding ($2.99), if you can. (3500 Fowler St., Fort Myers; 239-332pork and pickled vegetables atop freshly 1227; deepdownsouthbbq.com) baked baguettes. They are crunchy, savory, complex. Four years later they start at $5.25 (a huge bowl of Saigon’s beef Downtown pho is $7.99). I’m happy to pay that little House of Pizza bit extra, if it means we get many more A DHOP slice, a small salad and years of Saigon Sandwiches. (4460 Cleveland Ave, Fort Myers; 239-936-2002; a cannoli make for a perfect lunch (I facebook.com/saigonsandwichesfortmyers) should know, it’s my go-to). But for sticklers to the rules, this combo will Tiku’s Kitchen El Acajutla take you just over $10. You can do away at Indian Grocery Ten dollars goes a long way at this with the cannoli (I’d only cry a little) Hidden in the way back of this Far wondrous Central American restaurant. or skip the salad (when did I become a East market, through aisles of lentils Burrito: $6.50. Tamale: $2.50. Honduhippie?) or just get three slices of cheese and chana and basmati rice, this little ran chicken tacos: $6. But the $2.50 pu- and call it a day. Whichever way, you’ll counter feels like a hallucination, like if pusas have my heart. Filled and pattied be good. Trust me. (1520 Hendry St., Fort Myers; 239-337you blink too long it may vanish into the by hand, then served with the requisite 3467; downtownhouseofpizza.com) ether. But, on Fridays and Saturdays at red sauce and spicy slaw, this El Salvaleast, Tiku’s is wonderfully real. It’s an dorean classic goes down almost too easy The Bagel Factory all-vegetarian spot for sugar-cane juice at El Acajutla. Three are a nap-worthy and beet smoothies, for delicately chewy feast. Two make for a solid lunch, with Boiled and baked by hand, the bagels dosas and the curried stew known as pav enough money (and stomach space) left at this 24-year-old institution start at bhaji. The pani puri, though, are what I for Acajutla’s decadent coco flan. just $1.15, while the hand-rolled bialy (3226 Fowler St., Fort Myers; will set you back all of $1.25. Add on crave. These magic puffs are roughly the 239-277-0611; elacajutla.com) size of a ping-pong ball and filled with eggs and cheese with bacon or sausage cumin-scented ragda and exotic chutor ham and you’re still out the door for Deep Down South BBQ neys. If I am hallucinating, $5. Tack on roast beef or freshly sliced may it never end. This big red barbecue trailer got a pastrami with potato salad and you’re (3853 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers; 936-2123; new home this year, a flashier, higherat $8.20. What I’m saying is: It’s hard facebook.com/indiangroceryfortmyers) profile spot just a few blocks from its to spend $10 here. But it is dangerously old space on Fowler Street. At lunch, easy to eat these bagels. Saigon Sandwiches (8841 College Parkway, No. 108, south Fort Deep Down South offers a $5.99 menu Myers; 239-433-2245; thebagelfactory.com) I’m rarely happy to see a restaurant that includes a burger, a quarter chicken, raise its prices, but Saigon is the exeven its almost-famous pulled pork See 2 more cheap eats ception. When this tiny Vietnamese with fries, slaw and beans. Every other on swflparentchild.com soup-and-sandwich shop opened in time of the day there are rib sandwiches
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2019 » 19
« in the kitchen NOEL KONK EN
PUMPKIN, PUMPKIN, PUMPKIN! Tap into the power of this delicious gourd without adding unwanted sugar and calories.
et’s face it, pumpkin and pumpkin spice have a season all their own — and that season appears to keep growing longer and longer. Especially here in Southwest Florida, snuggling up on your lanai with a pumpkin spice latte or slicing a warm loaf of pumpkin bread in the morning may be your only way to start feeling the holiday spirit during our balmy fall months. However, there are plenty of ways to get your pumpkin spice fix without all the unnecessary added sugar and saturated fats that often accompany these tasty, pumpkin treats.
Pumpkin 101 Without a doubt, pumpkin is the most quintessential autumn squash in the United States. But there is more to this squash than just being the perfect canvas for carving a smiling face or a Thanksgiving pie filling. » Pumpkins are nutrient-dense. This means they are high in vitamins and nutrients, but low in calories. » Pumpkins contain beta carotene, which is a powerful antioxidant that also gives pumpkin its vibrant orange color. » One cup of sliced pumpkin can provide more than 100% of the daily value of Vitamin A, which can help contribute to healthy vision and immunity. » Pumpkin is high in fiber, which can help with satiety and gastrointestinal health.
20 » NOVEMBER 2019 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM
Noel Konken, a registered dietitian, is a clinical pediatric dietitian at Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida.
How to incorporate pumpkin into your meal plan » Pureed pumpkin is a great fat replacement when baking. Simply use a 1:1 ratio when replacing oil or a 3:4 ratio when replacing butter. » Make a delicious, evening treat by blending pumpkin puree with low-fat Greek yogurt, cocoa powder and honey. » Add it to your smoothies. Pumpkin pairs well with
banana, vanilla low-fat yogurt and cinnamon. » Mix pureed pumpkin into your morning oatmeal and season with cinnamon and brown sugar to taste. » Don’t forget to use all the pumpkin — roasted and lightly seasoned pumpkin seeds make a perfect saltysnack alternative to potato chips or crackers.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte
• Children ages 7 to 16
INGREDIENTS • 8 ounces pumpkin spice flavored coffee • ½ cup milk or unsweetened milk alternative • ¼ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice • 2 teaspoons maple syrup • Pinch of salt
239.362.2115 | www.littlechefsntraining.com
DIRECTIONS 1. Brew coffee using home coffee pot. 2. While coffee is brewing, place milk, pumpkin pie spice and maple syrup into a large mug. 3. When brew is complete, microwave milk mixture for 30-45 seconds and froth. 4. Gently pour frothed mixture into coffee. Sprinkle with additional pumpkin pie spice and pinch of salt.
Keeping pumpkin light » Whether it’s canned or pureed, fresh or frozen, all pumpkin is created equal. Just be sure to avoid canned pumpkin pie mix that’s filled with added sugar. As a rule of thumb, the only ingredient should be: Pumpkin. » At coffee shops, pumpkin spice lattes are often made with added syrup, a very
Let Us Straighten Your...
unnecessary added sugar. Instead, try making your own pumpkin spice latte at home using real, whole ingredients. » Skip the crust. Simply place your favorite pumpkin pie filling recipe in individual ramekins. You can top them with walnuts to give an extra crunch without all the saturated fat.
dule Sche for NOWummer S YourVisits • FREE Initial Consultation Fort Myers Office 239-561-2258 • No Interest Financing Available 14361 Metropolis Ave. • Ceramic & Metal Braces • Invisalign Estero Office • Invisalign Teen 239-390-0289 • Digital Models 21740 S. Tamiami Trail • Suite 116
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2019 » 21
Miguel Argumosa, DMD • Erin Taylor, DMD Nicole Eastham, DMD Board Certified Pediatric Dentists
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10/21/19 10:00 AM
kid stuff »
GET AN ASTRONAUT’S VIEW
PHOTO SPECIAL TO SW FL PARENT & CHILD
PHOTO BY ANDREA STETSON
Two space exhibits land in Southwest Florida, one at IMAG, another at C’mon. BY ANDREA STETSON pace, astronauts, rockets and missions to the moon have long fascinated children. This year with the 50th anniversary of the first landing on the moon, it’s even more in the forefront of people’s minds. That’s why museums in both Lee and Collier counties opened new space exhibits that will run until early to mid-January. The IMAG History & Science Center in Fort Myers opened “Be
the Astronaut,” while the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples has “Race to Space.” While both exhibits focus on space, they are completely different. IMAG’s display is a national traveling exhibit that features rows of simulation stations where children and their families can launch, drive and land spaceships. C’mon has an in-house built exhibit where youngsters make their own rockets at an arts-and-crafts station and then launch them to see how far and fast they will go.
• LEFT: Xavier Hale, 10, of Naples, creates a rocket at the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples “Race to Space” exhibit. • BELOW: In addition to “Be the Astronaut,” IMAG History & Science Center also has Science on a Sphere.
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2019 » 23
« kid stuff (continued) Designed by NASA engineers, the IMAG exhibit puts visitors in the pilot’s seat of a spaceship with an overview of real astronaut training. Touch screen stations and interactive simulator pods look like real space capsules. “Obviously it’s the anniversary of space travel. We have been focusing on that,” says Richard Smith, a spokesperson for IMAG. The exhibit features four main activities: » Navigation Interactive Stations, where visitors plan a mission and learn about orbits, Newton’s laws, gravity and other principles of flight and space. » Science Interactive Stations, where you can explore the equipment and technology needed to accomplish space travel missions and learn about rockets, spacesuits, spacecrafts and gear. » Flying Capsules, where you get a mission and launch rockets and rovers to meet that mission. The big screen experience has pilot and co-pilot seating and controls. » Plus, spacesuit and gear exhibits. “Oh, wow! We are landing now,” says Valerio Buzliosi, 6, as he uses the Flying USS Ulysses simulator during a visit this fall. Logan Barnes, 13, of Punta Gorda, loves flying the spaceships, too. “My favorite thing was that flying,” he says. “I flied OK until the end. Then I crashed.” Dan and Stacy Royal, of Fort Myers, sat with their 15-month-old daughter Layla in front of a screen. While Dan flew the spaceship, the action on screen mesmerized Layla. “This is fantastic,” Dan said. “It’s a great hands-on educational tool.” Ellye Henkle, 11, of Cape Coral, also enjoyed flying in space. “I think it is driving the ships that’s my favorite,” she said. “I crashed many times. It’s hard to fly.” Florida Gulf Coast University added to the exhibit. Museum Studies Program Leader and anthropology instructor Felicidad Noemi McDonald says FGCU provided tiles that were used in testing heat for the outside of the space shuttle. They’re also adding specialized pockets that were used by astronauts to carry tools in space. “The tiles — we got those directly from NASA,” Felicidad says. “The tile array we have was used in the past to warn about
24 » NOVEMBER 2019 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM
Challenger, the shuttle that exploded in midair. The tiles were damaged. We just use these tiles to illustrate that. These tiles were used for testing. They were damaged purposely. We also have two computers from IBM from 1960. We wanted to add to the information about what astronauts do when they are in space.” C’mon took a different route with its space exhibit. In the Rocket Design Station, children can build a rocket and then take it to the launch module to blast it through a long chute. “The premise of ‘Race to Space’ is that our visitors are going to build air-powered rockets,” says Beth Housewert, director of play and learning. “We have a guideline for them. They can add accessories to make it their own. Then they will go to the launch bay. It is actually compressed air. So they are learning as they are designing their rocket to make it go faster or longer. It is a lot about trial and error. They will make it and launch it and see what happens. Then they can change it in an effort to get it farther.” Xavier Hale, 10, of Naples, put a lot of thought into the rocket he created. “You’ve got to wrap it around this thing and seal it up,” he explains. “Then you trace the templates to make the fins.” His grandparents Donnalee and James Rigg say they bring Xavier to C’mon at least once a month. “This is his No. 1 choice,” Donnalee says. At the same time, Silas Johnson was also busy building a rocket. “We were excited about this exhibit,” said his mother, Elizabeth. “We wore our space shirts today.” There are two side-by-side launch modules, so children can race against each other. The exhibit has a dress-up area where children can wear astronaut outfits. There’s also another creation station. “Maybe they really liked the rocket, but they want to build a parachute, so they can take it to the next level and build another flying piece,” Beth says. She was surprised to hear that both museums are focusing on the same topic. “We both have found our niche when it comes to the same topic,” she said.
Space exhibits BE THE ASTRONAUT Where: IMAG History & Science Center, 2000 Cranford Ave., Fort Myers
When: 10 a.m.
to 5 p.m. TuesdaySaturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday until January 20
Cost: Included with regular admission, $14 for adults, $10 for children and students with ID, free for ages 2 and younger More details:
239-243-0043 or theimag.org
RACE TO SPACE Where: Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, 15080 Livingston Road, Naples When: 10 a.m. to
5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday (closed Wednesday) and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays until January 5
Cost: Included with regular admission, $10 for adults, $12 for children, free for members and children younger than 1. More details: 239-
514-0084 or cmon.org
teens »
Myanah Harris, 10, squirts her friends as she enjoys the bumper boats at Zoomers in south Fort Myers.
BUMP, RACE,
RIDE The go-karts and bumper boats at Zoomers score with tweens and teens.
BY ANDREA STETSON
iryana Portman and McKenzie Tunnell are only 13 years old, yet they drive at speeds up to 25 miles per hour. The teenagers love the freedom of zipping around the track on go-karts at Zoomers in south Fort Myers. It’s one of two places in the region that have go-karts. The other is Gator Mike’s Family Fun Park in Cape Coral. Zoomers is an 18-acre indoor/outdoor attraction with an assortment of rides, games and other activities. “They give you a lot of time on the go-karts,” Airyana says. “It is fun,” McKenzie adds. “The go-karts are the most fun, because you can go by yourself.” The first time, Airyana and McKenzie each drove their own go-kart. The second time, they decided to go together so they could take some selfies. Micah and Miles Baker, 11 and 9, also love the go-karts. Riders must be 56 inches tall for the regular go-karts and 40 inches high for the Rookie go-karts. Miles just recently made that 56-inch height, so he was excited to join his big brother on the larger, faster track.
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2019 » 25
« teens (continued)
Miles and Micah Baker, 8 and 11, zip around the track in go-karts at Zoomers in south Fort Myers.
If you go “I like passing people,” Micah says. “It’s really fun. You are against your friends. I try not to hit people, just pass them.” Micah has ridden so many times he even has a theory on how to be the fastest on the track. “A few of the cars are faster than the others,” he says. “I had a slow one the first time, and my brother passed by me. I was riding in No. 4 this time, and that one was pretty good.” There are three types of go-karts at Zoomers. The regular karts go up to 25 miles per hour. Drivers must be 56 inches or taller. The Rookie go-karts are for riders 40 to 55 inches tall. Those go up to 20 miles an hour. The Raptor go-karts, which require riders have a driver’s license or permit, can go up to 35 miles per hour. Zoomers Manager Yicela Almeida says the go-karts are a favorite for teenagers. “We do have a lot of teenagers coming in,” she says. “They love the go-karts. The bumper boats — they love that. And the Z-Force they love that. Our employees love it, too.” The bumper boats have squirters, so participants can soak each other as they
26 » NOVEMBER 2019 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM
drive and bump around the pond of water. There are also giant buckets above the attraction that spontaneously dump water on the boaters below. Z-Force is a two-seater ride that travels in a 360-degree circle while also spinning 360 degrees. There’s also the Cobra Coaster, Hippo Slide, gem mining, mini golf, midway rides and arcade games. The coaster and midway rides are more popular among the younger set, those 36 inches or taller, so there’s something for everyone. “It’s fun to go with your friends and family,” says Myanah Harris, 10, who says her favorite attraction is the bumper boats. Parents say the season pass is the way to go. “It’s convenient for us,” says Shane Baker, Micah and Miles’ father. “We have season passes.” With an annual Pro pass costing $79.99 and a one-day Pro wristband $37.99, many people opt for the yearly pass. The Rookie annual pass is $62.99, and the Carnival annual pass is $41.99. “If you come twice it pays for it,” Yicela says.
ZOOMERS
• Where: 17455
Summerlin Road, south Fort Myers
• When: Noon to 9 p.m. Monday-Thursday, noon to 11 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday • Cost: Depends on what
you want to do. You can pay as you go or buy wristbands. The all-day Pro Wristband, $37.99, covers almost everything and includes go-karts (except the Raptor karts). The Rookie, $29.99, is geared toward ages 4 and older, 40 to 55 inches tall. The Carnival Rides band, $19.99, covers the carnival rides and excludes karts, unless the child rides with a paid adult on the double go-karts. There are also annual passes for residents, from $41.99 for the Carnival pass to $79.99 for the Pro.
• Details: 239-481-9666 or zoomersfun.com
spotlight »
ON THEIR WAY TO
BROADWAY Southwest Florida children are finding a path to performing in national tours via local auditions. BY PAMELA HAYFORD
Ashton
Gianna
hen 7-year-old Gianna Winton, of Fort Myers, auditioned last spring for the role of a child in “Waitress,” a Tony Awardnominated Broadway musical taking the stage at Artis—Naples, it was to perform on the local stage. Touring shows often cast child roles locally and choose two kids to share the role. Gianna and 5-year-old Solei Bourgeois landed the role of Lulu. They were among two dozen girls vying for the part. When the show wrapped up its run, Gianna was asked
Ben
to go on the national tour with the cast. It happened again with the show “Once.” Nine-year-old Fort Myers actor Ashton Heathcoat is hoping he’ll get the same question when “Finding Neverland” wraps up this month at the Broadway Palm dinner theater. He is one of two boys playing Michael in the local production. “If we get tour, then I’m going on tour,” Ashton says. “That’s a fun fact.” Southwest Florida kids have a unique opportunity to be a part of big national tours, sometimes Broadway productions, when they come to the area — and sometimes the kids are asked to go on tour.
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2019 » 27
Gianna on stage with cast of “Once”
Gianna’s mom did it when she was a kid living in Allentown, Pennsylvania. She appeared in Broadway’s “Les Misérables,” “The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride” and “The Who’s Tommy.” “My mom thought it was for a Tommy tot toy, like a brand, and she did not know I was going to the rock opera ‘Tommy,’” Cyrsta Winton says with a laugh. “She was like, ‘No!’” But they went forward. The role required her to cut her hair like a boy, but “I loved it,” Crysta says. She was in the production for 2.5 years. “I got too tall, and they broke the news to me, and I was determined to go to ‘Les Misérables’ in New York,” Crysta says. But her agent said she was too young. Crysta auditioned anyway and became the young Cosette on Broadway. “That’s how it all started,” Crysta says. Gianna loved touring with “Waitress” so much that she auditioned for the child role in “Once” at the Broadway Palm, and again she was asked to tour with the cast.
28 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM
“I love being in front of people,” Gianna says. With the cast of “Once,” Gianna and her mom left on a bus in midOctober on the national tour, which runs 20 weeks and eventually swings back through the east coast of Florida. Mom makes sure Gianna keeps up with her home-school lessons and helps her navigate backstage. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime thing,” Crysta says. Local kids don’t always get asked to go on the national tour, says Brian Enzman, casting director and artistic producer of “Once.” It depends on the show. Broadway Palm typically holds local children’s auditions about once a year, depending on the needs of that year’s productions. The staff post the auditions on the theater’s website, broadwaypalm. com, and on the theater’s Facebook page. They also try to get the word out via local media. Often, the children auditioning have an audition coach or they’ve taken dance classes or voice lessons or had some sort of theater or performing arts
experience, says theater spokesperson Melissa Vogt. Gianna’s “Once” cast mate, Sarah Salerno, “was in ‘Annie’ when we did it last summer,” Brian says, “and I believe she was in ‘Elf ’ here as well.” However, prior experience and extensive training is not required, Melissa adds. The four local boys currently in the Broadway Palm production of “Finding Neverland,” on stage now through November 16, have varying degrees of experience. We caught up with two of the boys before a show in October. Ashton Heathcoat, 9, plays Michael, while Benjamin Sabo, 12, plays Peter. You might recognize Ashton. He was Beto in Season 2 of the Nickelodeon show “I Am Frankie.” However, “Finding Neverland” was Ben’s first role outside of school productions. He was Horton in “Seussical the Musical” at Heights Elementary. Now he attends Cypress Lake Middle School in south Fort Myers. “My vocal teacher, she told me about ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and I tried out
« spotlight (continued)
for Chip originally, but I didn’t get the part, and then after we finished, they encouraged us all to try out for the ‘Finding Neverland’ boys,” Ben says. “And so we got what we needed to use to try out, and I practiced a lot and did very well.” Ben practiced an hour every other day, sometimes learning lines, sometimes listening to cast recordings of the songs. Ashton has been modeling and acting in commercials since he was 5, and he attends the Edison Park Creative and Expressive Arts School in Fort Myers, but “Beauty and the Beast” was his first musical. “Then ‘Finding Neverland’ came up and my mom was like, ‘Ooo, you want to try out?’ and I was like, ‘Yeah, sure!’” Ashton says. “So I practiced a lot, practiced a lot, the day came, and I got it.” Ashton just might prefer the stage to the screen. “’Cause you get to do it live and there’s an audience,” Ashton says. That live aspect is alluring to Ben, too. One of his favorite moments is when he makes a surprise entrance on stage and the audience gasps. “There’s a lot of like ‘huh!’” he gasps and puts his hand to his mouth like a surprised audience member, “and so it takes a lot of my force not to smile.” Ben hasn’t decided if he would say yes to a national tour. “I’m not really sure. Because, I mean, this has been a really fun experience, but I do miss a lot of school, which was a big thing. And I do have a lot of friends inside of school,” Ben says. “It is very fun to do all this. And it is a lot of training. A lot of hard work. But once you get into the shows, it’s super fun.” And the boys say they like that the cast treats them like people, rather than “just kids.” No matter what the future brings, the experience brought both the boys and the moms new friendships. “They’ve made really good friends thanks to that,” says Ben’s mom, Heidi, as the boys sit in the theater lobby with arms draped over each other’s shoulders like long-time buddies. She says the cast and crew have made them feel welcome. They’ve been “very nice and willing to teach me things. They’re very, very kind,” she says. “I didn’t feel like an outsider.” The next audition at Broadway Palm? It’ll probably be this spring for the von Trapp children in “The Sound of Music.”
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2019 » 29
« dining
Why family dinners
MATTER The science of eating together. BY TANNI HAAS
30 » NOVEMBER 2019 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM
ost families find it difficult to get everyone together at the dinner table on a regular basis. We’re all so busy with after-school activities, late meetings at work and long commutes; it really is too bad. Researchers have learned that eating dinner as a family is extremely important to kids’ physical, mental and emotional health. As Anne Fishel, a psychologist and author of “Home for Dinner: Mixing Food, Fun, and Conversation for a Happier Family and Healthier Kids,” says: “Sitting down for a nightly meal is great for the brain, the body and the spirit.” Healthier eating Kids whose families have regular dinners together are much healthier than those who don’t, according to researchers with The Family Dinner Project, co-founded by Anne Fishel. They eat more fruits and vegetables, and less fried foods and soft drinks. They eat a wider variety of foods, and they continue to do so once they become adults. They’re also less likely to become obese. Researchers say that’s because homemade meals are healthier than those in restaurants: We eat smaller portions, at a slower pace, and spend more time talking with one another.
Increased vocabulary Dining with the family impacts kids’ minds as well as their bodies. Researchers from The Family Dinner Project discovered that dinnertime conversations increase young kids’ vocabulary much more than being read to out loud. So if you have a choice between coming home early for a family dinner or reading your kids a bedtime story, choose the dinner over the bedtime story. Kids who have a large vocabulary learn to read earlier and more easily than those with a more limited vocabulary. Researchers say that’s because kids constantly hear parents use new words during conversation.
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Higher grades These intellectual benefits carry over into academic achievement. Researchers have discovered that how well kids do in school is determined more by how often they participate in family dinners than by whether they
do their homework consistently, according to researchers from the project. Kids who dine regularly with their families are twice as likely get A’s in school than those who only do so rarely.
Fewer risky behaviors Having family dinners is also good for kids’ emotional health. When they dine with their families, they’re much less likely to suffer from eating disorders, abuse alcohol or drugs, or stress and depression. Researchers say that may be because parents who spend time with their kids at the dinner table are more in touch with their emotional well-being and can offer advice and support when needed. As a result, these kids also have higher self-esteem and trust others more.
Stronger family bonds Finally, researchers have learned what we all probably know already: Eating dinner together enhances family bonds. Kids whose families have regular dinners are much more likely to have good relationships with their parents and siblings, according to researchers from The Family Dinner Project. Kids say that talking, catching-up and just spending quality family time are much more important to them than what’s on the menu. Simply put, eating dinner together creates a strong sense of togetherness and feeling of belonging to a family. “Dinner is a time to relax, recharge, laugh, tell stories and catch up on the day’s ups and downs, while developing a sense of who we are as a family,” Fishel says.
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We compiled a list of area restaurants that offer free or discounted kids’ meals. Keep this list handy (stick it on the fridge or save it to your smartphone) so you’ll always know where to go in a pinch. Applebee’s
Bob Evans
For locations, visit applebees.com. » On Sundays, kids’ meals for ages 12 and younger are $1.99. May vary by location.
Locations include Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Naples and Port Charlotte. For details, visit bobevans.com. » Kids eat free every Tuesday after 4 p.m. with purchase of adult entrée.
Anthony’s on the Blvd 1303 Del Prado Blvd. S., Cape Coral; 239-772-5900 anthonysontheblvd.net » Sunday through Wednesday after 4 p.m., kids 10 and younger get a free kids’ meal with adult purchase, dine–in only.
Bubba’s Roadhouse & Saloon 2121 S.W. Pine Island Road, Cape Coral; 239-282-5520 bubbasroadhouse.net » Kids 10 and younger eat free from the kids’ menu on Mondays. Find terms and kids’ menu online under Daily Specials link. Limit of two kids’ meals per adult entrée purchase.
BurgerFi 16441 Corporate Commerce Way, Fort Myers; 239-703-7851 1514 Immokalee Road, North Naples; 239-631-5647 12712 Tamiami Trail E., Naples; 239-331-3606 burgerfi.com » Every Tuesday, kids 12 and younger eat free from the kids’ menu with purchase of adult meal.
Burntwood Tavern Mercato, 9110 Strada Place, North Naples; 239-631-8964
burntwoodtavern.com/naples » Kids eat free on Mondays.
Cicis Pizza 1430 Del Prado Blvd. S., Cape Coral; 239-573-7225 2650 Immokalee Road, North Naples; 239-597-0306 1700 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte; 941-627-3303 cicis.com » This one varies by location. In Cape Coral, the kids’ buffet is 99 cents on Tuesdays (drink not included). They also have a coloring sheet that gives you a free buffet on a return visit. Naples occasionally runs similar deals, but not on a regular basis.
D’Amico & Sons Neapolitan Way, 4691 Ninth St. N., Naples; 239-430-0955 damicoandsons.com » Kids 12 and younger eat free on Sundays with purchase of adult entree.
Duffy’s Sports Grill 21253 Stoneybrook Golf Blvd., Estero; 239-301-0944 13721 S. Tamiami Trail, south Fort Myers; 239-590-8631 627 Cape Coral Parkway W., Cape Coral; 239-205-6771 duffysmvp.com » Kids eat free every Wednesday with the purchase of an adult meal.
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Firehouse Subs 7091 College Parkway, south Fort Myers; 239-334-7827 firehousesubs.com. » On Sundays, at the College Parkway location in Fort Myers, kids get a free combo (sub, dessert and drink) with the purchase of an adult combo.
Hurricane Grill & Wings 6345 Naples Blvd., Naples, 239513-9900 756 S.W. Pine Island Road, Cape Coral; 239-800-3141 8017 Plaza Del Lago Drive, Estero; 239-498-1536 hurricanewings.com » At the Naples and Cape locations, kids 12 and younger eat free on Saturdays all day with purchase of an adult meal. At the Estero location, kids 10 and younger eat free on Wednesdays.
Iguana Mia 28051 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs 1027 E. Cape Coral Parkway, Cape Coral 4329 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers 866-639-3287 iguanamia.com » Kids 10 and younger eat for half price (includes entrée, beverage and a dessert) on Sundays with purchase of adult meal (limit two half price
meals). Ages 11-14 receive a free beverage and dessert when ordering off the regular menu. All ages eat free on birthdays (up to $18 value; ID required).
Keg & Cow 2384 Surfside Blvd., Cape Coral; 239-558-5001 kegandcow.com » Kids eat free on Sundays with the purchase of an adult meal. Plus, VIPs get a free burger and brew (21 and older; $20 maximum value) on their birthday.
Miller’s Ale House 4400 Kernel Circle, Fort Myers; 239-931-4160 Gulf Coast Town Center, 10065 Gulf Center Drive, Fort Myers; 239-461-9334 6320 Hollywood Blvd., Naples; 239-591-0125 millersalehouse.com » One free kids’ meal per adult entrée purchase on Tuesdays. For ages 12 and younger. Dinein only.
Moe’s Southwest Grill For locations, visit moes.com. » Kids eat free Tuesdays with the purchase of an adult combo meal (includes queso or guacamole and a drink). One free kids’ meal per adult combo purchased. May vary by location.
Nick & Stella’s Family Sports Pub 15271 McGregor Blvd., south Fort Myers; 239-466-9493 nickandstellas.com » On Tuesdays, kids 12 and younger eat free from the kids’ menu.
Perkins For locations, visit perkinsrestaurants.com. » Varies by location but usually kids 12 and younger eat free after 4 p.m. on Tuesdays with the purchase of one adult entree. Call your local Perkins for details.
Pinchers For locations, visit pinchersusa.com. » Kids younger than 12 get one free kids’ menu entrée per adult entrée ordered (minimum purchase of $14). Valid at all locations.
Rib City For locations, visit ribcity.com. » Kids 4 and younger get a free piece of chicken and fries with an adult meal purchase.
Ruby Tuesday For locations, visit rubytuesday.com. » After 5 p.m. on Tuesdays, one free kids’ entrée with one adult
New in dining with kids Agave offered a free kids’ meal for a limited time this fall. But while its prices have gone back to normal, we can’t not share with you what they offer kids. Agave launched a new kids’ menu over summer that’s divided by age: Baby (smashed avocado, carrot or black beans) ($2.99), Toddler for guests younger than 5 ($4.99) and Kids (ages 12 and younger, $7.99). The food is real, healthy food, like salmon, that you won’t mind eating if Junior doesn’t. Plus, they offer four mocktails ($4.95). And good grades get kids a special reward; show your report card for a free treat.
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entrée purchased. Participation varies by location.
Shrimp Shack 13361 Metro Parkway, Fort Myers; 239-561-6817 shrimpshackusa.com » Kids 10 and younger eat free Monday and Wednesday with the adult purchase of a regularly priced entree. Child’s beverage included. May not be used with another coupon or offer at the table.
Skyline Chili 5100-323 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers; 239-278-3929 710 Ninth St. N., Naples; 239649-5665 skylinechili.com » Kids eat free on Thursdays, 5 p.m. to close (8 p.m.), with purchase of an adult meal.
» On Wednesdays, Kids 12 and younger eat free with adult meal purchase. Details vary by store. In Fort Myers, it’s two kids’ meals per adult entrée purchase. In Cape Coral and Naples, the deal is after 4 p.m. on Wednesdays.
Texas Roadhouse 8021 Dani Drive, south Fort Myers; 239-561-7427 6815 Collier Blvd., Naples; 239417-1111 New location: 3005 Terracap Way, Estero; 239-256-2290 texasroadhouse.com » The Fort Myers and Estero location offers junior kids’ meals for $1.99, 5-8 p.m. on Tuesdays. At the Naples location, kids pay a penny per inch tall on Monday nights.
Want to add your restaurant to the list? Email us at editor@ swflparent child.com.
Steak ‘N Shake Locations in Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Naples and Port Charlotte. For details, visit steaknshake.com. » Kids ages 12 and younger eat free all day Saturday and Sunday; one free kids’ plate per $9 spent. Does not include drink or shake. At participating locations.
Stevie Tomato’s Sports Page 9510 Marketplace Road, Fort Myers; 239-9397211 814 S.W. Pine Island Road, Cape Coral; 239573-7877 15215 Collier Blvd., Naples; 239-352-4233 stevietomato.com
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fun Special
Numerous groups and venues offer events designed for children with special needs.
Olivia Grace Hamilton, 3, plays at Manuel’s Branch Neighborhood Park in Fort Myers for our November cover shoot. But she and her family also have an inspiring story. She is one of 14 children with special needs whom her parents have adopted and care for in their home. The Hamiltons have 20 children altogether. Read their story at swflparentchild.com. PHOTO BY AMANDA INSCORE
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cover story »
BY ANDREA STETSON heater, sailing, art, music, play groups, horseback riding. The menu of activities for children with special needs now spans a wide variety of things to do in Southwest Florida, from those aimed at fostering socialization and communication to those that are just plain fun. Many are free or offered at a reduced cost. Craig Price, the director of community education and wellness with The Naples Players, started an improv acting class for children with special needs. The yearlong program runs once a week in 10-week sessions during the school year and five days a week during the summer. Nine children and three volunteers attended a recent session. “I have kids here with autism, sensory disorder processing, cerebral palsy,” Craig says. “I have lots of assistants in the classroom. It’s been a big success for us. I have really enjoyed that class.” The children play acting games that focus on emotions, movement and working together. “We incorporate mindfulness, focus on breathing, a lot of emotion games,” he says. “We show the kids who are verbal and nonverbal how to read emotions.
Often it is difficult for children with autism to pick up those cues.” Emily Buenafuente, 15, took the class for two years and is now a volunteer there. “It helped me to open up a bit more,” she says. “I am not as shy as I used to be.” Emily says her favorite improv games are one called gibberish and one where participants jump out from the back row and tell a funny joke based on an audience suggestion. “Emily started out as a student and then moved on to other improv classes in our program not with kids with autism,” Craig says. “One of the best things about Emily and her success story was being in this class and then being in the other improv classes and now coming back to volunteer with this class.” Denise Gamache brings her son Steven, 12, to class each week. “Craig is just wonderful with the kids,” Denise says. “That is why we keep coming back. He looks forward to it. It has definitely helped confidence wise.” “I mostly like it because it is meeting new people,” says Steven, who loves the mechanical robot improv game best. Sandra Donohue says the class has been very helpful for her daughter Clara, 17. “It is the interaction and the socialization,” Sandra says. “Because of the speech impediment, it helps her to be involved with this group. She could not wait to come back.”
“We incorporate mindfulness, focus on breathing, a lot of emotion games. We show the kids who are verbal and nonverbal how to read emotions. Often it is difficult for children with autism to pick up those cues.” — CRAIG PRICE
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Kendal Maloney, 11, has been part of the class for two years. “I really like it,” she says. “I am meeting friends.” Sara Weaver’s son Isaac, 8, started taking improv classes this year. “It’s been really good for Isaac,” she says. “It has brought out some of his motor skills. It’s great for him to interact with other people.” The Sugden Community Theatre, home of The Naples Players, also plans to host sensory showings of the winter
and spring shows. Both “She Loves Me” in December and “Bye Bye Birdie” in March will have performances where the lights are brighter and the sound lower. Anyone who attends is welcome to move about in the theater. The audience is capped at 50% capacity. There is no clapping during the show and headphones are available. “As sensory-friendly screenings become more common in local movie theaters and even on Broadway, The Naples Players is proud to participate
in this national shift towards making it possible for individuals with special needs and their families to experience the same quality theater as everyone else,” Price says. The tickets to these performances are also steeply discounted. The activities at Sugden Theatre are just some of the many things in Southwest Florida aimed at children with special needs. Some activities are just for the children. Others allow the entire family to join in.
“For us it is important because we want to serve everyone in the community. It is to give opportunities for kids to practice social skills. We really want it to be about all abilities. Sensory night is an opportunity for any child with special needs to come to the museum. It is a quieter
PHOTO BY ANDREA STETSON
evening in the museum.” — BETH HOUSEWERT
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PHOTO BY ANDREA STETSON
Every month the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, aka C’mon, has a special evening where it turns off the music, the loud hand dryers and the strobe lighting in the Everglades exhibit and welcomes guests who need sensory-friendly activities. The children’s museum also invites special guests, such as a yoga instructor, Golden PAWS service dogs or therapists from the Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida to spread awareness and help families with children with special needs. The program is open to children with any type of need and their entire family. “For us it is important because we want to serve everyone in the community,” says Beth Housewert, director of play and learning at C’mon. “It is to give opportunities for kids to practice social skills. We really want it to be about all abilities. Sensory night is an opportunity for any child with special needs to come to the museum. It is a quieter evening in the museum.” Children with special needs in both Naples and Fort Myers can take part in special equestrian programs. At the Naples Therapeutic Riding Center, about 150 to 180 children ride each week. About 55 are on scholarship. The rest pay $10 for a 45-minute lesson. “Horses can help people if they need physical benefits of balance and strengthening muscles,” says Missy Lamont, executive director. “They can help with social anxiety or someone looking for a friend. It helps with communication and confidence.” Special Equestrians in Fort Myers provides therapeutic horseback riding classes to children and adults with disabilities from Lee, Charlotte, Hendry and Glades counties. More than 95 riders take part in the program each week at a cost of $15 per week or $90 for a six-week session. Scholarships are available. Riders enjoy both a sensory trail and riding in a covered arena. The facility now also offers carriage riding. “Some people are not suited for riding or they might think carriage riding will be fun,” says Jan Fifer, executive director. “It is cool. We are proud of our carriage riding team.” The Safe & Healthy Children’s Coalition, associated with the NCH Healthcare System, began offering free swimming lessons in 2010 after an increase in drowning deaths in Collier County. That includes free swimming lessons for children with special needs. AT LEFT: Craig Price, director of community education and wellness with The Naples Players, begins an improv session with a happy-hands exercise. Nine children with special needs attend the 10-week session at the Sugden Community Theatre in Naples.
If you go Improv with The Naples Players • Where: Sugden Community Theatre, 701 Fifth Ave S, Naples • When: 5 p.m. Fridays • Cost: $25 for entire 10-week program • More details: 239434-7340, ext. 103, cprice@naplesplayers.org or naplesplayers.org
Sensory Shows by The Naples Players • When: “She Loves Me” is 7:30 p.m. December 17; “Bye Bye Birdie” is 7:30 p.m. March 31 • Where: Sugden Community Theatre, 701 Fifth Ave S, Naples • Cost: $20 for adults, $10 for students and educators • More details: 239-434-7340, naplesplayers.org
C’mon Sensory Nights • Where: Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, 15080 Livingston Road, Naples • When: 5 to 7 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of each month. Next one is November 26. • Cost: $5 (free for members) • More details: 239-514-0084, cmon.org/sensory-night
Naples Therapeutic Riding Center • Where: 206 Ridge Drive, Naples • When: By appointment • Cost: $10 for a 45-minute lesson; scholarships available • More details: 239-5962988, naplestherapeuticridingcenter.org
Special Equestrians • Where: 5121 Staley Road, Fort Myers • When: By appointment • Cost: $15 per week or $90 for a 6-week session; scholarships available • More details: 239-226-1221, specialequestrians.net
Free Swimming Lessons from Safe & Healthy Children’s Coalition • Where: River Park Aquatic Center, 451 11th St. N., Naples • When: By appointment • Cost: Free (for Collier County residents only) • More details: paula.digrigoli@nchmd.org or safehealthychildren. org/collier-county-swimming-lessons
Autism Spectrum Playgroup by Family Initiative • Where: Christ Community Church, 4050 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers • When: 1-4 p.m. Saturdays • Cost: $10 • More details: 239-910-0712, fi-florida. org/autism-social-skills-playgroup
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Craig Price, director of community education and wellness with The Naples Players, works with Lindsay Hart, 15, on an improv activity during a program for children with special needs at the Sugden Community Theatre.
The 10-day program provides one-toone sessions with the instructor. “The leading cause of death is drowning, so we supply free door alarms or window alarms, too,” says Executive Director Paula DiGrigoli. Family Initiative has an array of programs for children and teenagers with special needs. Every Saturday they have a play group at Christ Community Church in Fort Myers. “There is a lot of physical activity. There is a certified art instructor that leads art projects. It’s great,” says President David Brown. Family Initiative teamed up with the Alliance for the Arts for a weekly program that focuses on a different aspect of the arts each month from dance and music to art and acting. A certified art instructor leads the art classes. There is also acting, improv, music, hip-hop and other dance instruction. For teenagers, Family Initiative has an autism spectrum teen hangout group. “This group has exploded,” Brown says. “It helps promote social skills and friendships. It gives them an opportunity to hang out and be teenagers a little bit. The kids love it.” Both Lee and Collier counties have programs in their parks and recreation departments. Lee County Parks & Recreation has an after-school program for
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children with special needs that costs $200 for the entire school year. “It allows for some free time, homework time; we have a pool on campus, so we go over to the pool, play games and go to the playground,” says Shay Thomas, a program specialist for Lee County Parks & Recreation. On no-school days, the parks host fun events and camps that include swimming, arts and crafts, and field trips. There are also special events. For
May, the parks are planning a disco. In the past, they’ve had an ice cream social, luau and a Valentine’s Day party. Collier County Parks & Recreation and the Freedom Waters Foundation offer free sailing for anyone with special needs. There is also a yearly adaptive sailing regatta. Patricia Rosen, senior program leader with Collier County Parks, says adults usually come on the weekdays and children on the weekends.
“They usually will fall in love with the water,” Rosen says. “Any spectrum of special needs is welcome. There is just something very calming when they get on the water. When it comes to competing, they are on a level playing field with someone who is able bodied. Even if you are paralyzed and can’t walk, it is a fair competition.” The Freedom Waters Foundation also offers free boat rides for children with special needs and their families. “We use private and public vessels that partner with us year-round,” says Debra Frenkel, who founded the program. “We do local cruises, fishing, kayaking and paddleboarding and sailing. We don’t charge anything for any of our programs. In the last four years, we did over 3,000 on-thewater experiences. Half are veterans, and lots are children with special needs and life-threatening illnesses.” Movies can be too loud or too stimulating for some children. That’s why some local theaters hold sensory shows where the lights are raised and the sound volume is lowered. Paragon Theaters in North Naples does this each month. “If there is a family-friendly film available that month, the lights are raised and the sound volume is lowered,” says Niki Wilson, vice president of marketing and publicity for Paragon. “These are two key reasons that someone with sensory issues would not enjoy a film (too loud and too dark in the auditorium). We have had a great response from our guests and have offered these screenings monthly for several years now.” AMC Theatres partners with the Autism Society to offer a sensory-friendly film program on the second and fourth Saturday of each month. “We want to make sure that all of the families that come to the AMC theaters can enjoy our theater experience,” says Cozetta Smith, coordinator for corporate communications. “We want to make sure we are providing that safe environment for everyone.” The Young Athletes Program, or YAP, is a precursor to Special Olympics. The free program teaches children ages 2-7 basic movement, coordination and balance skills and runs January through March at Whiz Kids in Naples. “It is a parent-child class,” says Special Olympics YAP Director Kate Hickie. “It is movement education, and we finish with the parachute.”
ASD ArtPlay by Family Initiative
• Where: Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers • When: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursdays • Cost: $10 per session • More details: 239-910-0712, fi-florida.org/autism-artimprov-class
Autism Spectrum Teen Hangout Group by Family Initiative • Where: Family Initiative, 730 SW Fourth St., Cape Coral • When: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays • Cost: $15 in advance, $20 at the door • More details: 239-910-0712, fi-florida.org/ autism-teen-hangout
Club Sunshine After-School Program • Where: Karl Drews Special Needs Center, 18412 Lee Road, Fort Myers • When: 2-5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday • Cost: $100 per semester or $200 for the entire school year • More details: 239267-2181, leegov.com/parks/programs/special-needs
Sailing • Where: Lake Avalon at Sugden Regional Park, 4284 Avalon Drive, Naples • When: Noon to 3 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays • Cost: $30 a year • More details: 239-252-4184 or adaptiveinclusiverec@colliercountyfl.gov.
Boat Cruises with Freedom Waters Foundation • Where: Location varies • When: By appointment • Cost: Free • More details: 239-263-2377, freedomwatersfoundation.org
Sensory Movies NAPLES • Where: Paragon Theaters, 833 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples • When: Dates vary (November 23 at 10 a.m. is “Frozen II”) • Cost: Regular movie prices • More details: 239596-0008, paragontheaters.com/promotions
NORTH FORT MYERS • Where: AMC Merchants Crossing 16, 15201 N. Cleveland Ave., North Fort Myers • When: Second and fourth Saturday of each month • Cost: Regular movie prices • More details: 239-995-9303, amctheatres.com/programs/ sensory-friendly-films
Young Athletes Program • Where: Whiz Kids, 1050 Pine Ridge Road, Naples • When: 9 a.m. Saturdays • Cost: Free • More details: 239-775-1991, specialolympicscollier.org
Bounce Trampoline Sports Sensory-Friendly Time • Where: Bounce Naples, 2320 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples • When: 8:45-10 a.m. the first Saturday and second Sunday of each month • Cost: $10 • More details: 239-302-3848, bouncenaples.com
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» safety corner A LE XIS ROT HR ING
12 TIPS FOR A SAFER ATV RIDE
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ATVs can be fun, but injuries are on the rise. Follow these rules to keep your young rider safe.
ne of the most common outdoor recreational activities seen throughout Southwest Florida is ATV riding. What an adventure for kids and adults alike, whether it’s for fun or for work. On the flip side, crashes and injuries have increased yearly due to more people using ATVs. Statistics show that more than 26% of the crashes and injuries caused by ATVs and treated in emergency rooms involved children younger than 16 years old, and 44% of these are children younger than 12 years old. Some of the most common ATV injuries are to the head and neck (29%), spinal cord, arm (29%), leg (21%), torso (20%), internal injuries and fractures. ATV riders can prevent or reduce crashes, injuries and fatalities by preparing with proper training, practicing to expand skills and following the rules of ATV safety: » Ride an ATV that’s right for your age. Keep in mind that although a child meets age recommendations, not all children will have the strength, skills or judgment needed to operate an ATV. Other important considerations are physical size, visual perception, emo-
Resources ATV Safety Institute: atvsafety.org 2017 Annual Report of ATVRelated Deaths and Injuries, February 2019: cpsc.gov/s3fs-public/ atv_annual%20Report%202017_ for_website.pdf
tional maturity and the ability to make good decisions. » Read and follow the ATV owner’s manual, warnings and labels. » Before every ride, make sure that you check your ATV tires, oil, fuel, breaks, lights, chain or chassis. » Always wear protective gear and clothing, like a DOT-compliant helmet, goggles, pants, long sleeves or jacket, gloves and over-the-ankle boots. » Never carry a passenger on a single-rider ATV, and no more than one passenger on a two-rider ATV. » Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol. » Always supervise riders younger than 16. Even though your child has learned safety and riding skills, they can get tired easily and become careless about their surroundings and need your help to judge if it’s safe. » Ride only on designated trails and
Brenda Hernandez, a child advocate at Lee Health, writes on behalf of Safe Kids Southwest Florida.
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at a safe speed. » Carry a tool kit and strong tow rope in case you have any mechanical problems. It’s important to do periodic maintenance as indicated in the owners’ manual. » Never ride on paved roads except to safely cross when permitted by law. Remember, ATVs are designed for offroad riding and handle differently than cars or motorcycles. » Take a hands-on ATV Rider Course and free online E-Course. You can find them at ATVsafety.org or call 800-887-2887. There are hands-on courses available for children 6 and older, teens and adults. » Parents, also get to know all about the care, maintenance, operation and warnings of the ATV your child is using. Teaching your child to learn to properly operate and safely ride an ATV is key to preventing crashes and injuries. Search online for programs near you to take a hands-on course and search for trails where everyone can be safe and enjoy their ride. For ATV Safety awareness and more information, contact us at 239-254-4277 or email me at Brenda. Hernandez@LeeHealth.org
Safe Kids is a nonprofit coalition of agencies and organizations dedicated to eliminating preventable childhood injuries. Visit safekidsswfl.org.
family album »
ROCK YOUR SCHOOL DAY » Above, Vinicius Gonzaga, 6, and classmate Dayna Castro, 6, reach for a “gum ball” as they do math in their class. Rock Your School Day at Gulf Elementary in Cape Coral rocked the school. They joined a nationwide effort to promote outside-the-box learning. At right, Abby Sardinha, 10, and classmate Natasha Used, 10, roll the dice while working on math. Photos by Andrea Melendez
BLESSINGS IN A BACKPACK » Blessings in a Backpack partnered with Lee Drywall on September 19 to pack more than 250 meals for children at Tice Elementary School to take home on weekends. From left to right: Traci Lee and Dawn Foote • Dawn Foote, Traci Lee, Chelsea Chirila, LaRae Lee Davenport and Katie Bohanon • Gabriella Graham, Erin Graham and Caroline Graham.
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« family album
ONE TREE » Bryson Whittamore, 6, helps volunteers prepare six acres of land belonging to Temple Beth El in south Fort Myers for the planting of hundreds of native trees in September. The new Temple Preserve & Memorial Gardens will be located alongside the Crown Colony golf course and the Stonebridge neighborhood. OneTree.org, a local nonprofit, led the effort. Photo by Kinfay Moroti
MAKING MEMORIES » The Smith Family — Ryan, Leta and Arlo — enjoyed a family photo session with photographer Brittany Horne, of Naples, this fall. Photos by Brittany Horne
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IN THE SERVICE OF CHILDREN » The Children’s Services Foundation of Southwest Florida presents awards grants of $2,500 each to support Guadalupe Center’s Early Childhood Education Program. Here, representatives from The Heights Center’s Beyond the Bell program and The Quality Life Center’s ACE After School Program. Special to SW FL Parent & Child
family album »
GIVE BACK DAY » Some 40 elementary
and high school students teamed up with the Naples Children & Education Foundation, the founding organization of the Naples Winter Wine Festival, and festival sponsor NetJets to pack meals for families in need September 18 through Meals of Hope at Grace Place for Children and Families in Naples. They packed nearly 25,000 meals in just under two hours.
Send Us Your Snapshots
Send your images with a brief description and names of the people in them to editor@swflparentchild.com
CLIPS FOR CANCER »
Cali Trepkowski shaves NICU nurse Jessica Isley’s head September 27 during the Clips for Cancer event to raise awareness and money for Barbara’s Friends—Golisano Children’s Hospital Cancer Fund.
Photo by Michael A Caronchi
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SPECIAL GUESTS » NFL fullback Tommy Bohanon, at right, state representative candidate Jenna Persons, local country singer
Cody Weaver, at left, and the Lee County Sheriff’s Office CRU Unit visited with children at the Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida on October 1. Bohanon played football for North Fort Myers High School and graduated in 2008. After college, he played for the New York Jets and the Jacksonville Jaguars. In 2017, he and his wife, Katie, founded the Tommy Bohanon Foundation to support young athletes. Special to SWFL Parent & Child
SHIPWRECKED » Collier County high school
juniors attended “Shipwrecked,” a new adaptation of Shakespeare’s “The Tempest,” on September 26 and 27. It was performed by the Gulfshore Playhouse and the Naples Philharmonic at Artis — Naples. Several students were in the production via the Gulfshore Playhouse Teen Conservatory.
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NEW LEARNING CENTER »
The Heights Foundation and Heights Center broke ground on the $11.8 million Heights Early Learning and Education Center on September 18. Children from GLAD Kids and The Heights Charter School represented their classmates. Photo special to SW FL Parent & Child
travel »
TRAVEL TO A GALAXY FAR, FAR AWAY
PHOTOS BY DAVID ROARK/COURTESY OF DISNEY PARKS
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opens a whole new world. BY JENNIFER THOMAS he opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disney’s Hollywood Studios had been on our calendar since Disney announced their pending creation. My husband, Bill, and I grew up with this mega blockbuster movie series as ’80s teens. Now, the continuation of the Star Wars story is being passed down to our children’s generation with the new movies. “With the opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, we’ve set a new standard for the most immersive storytelling in the galaxy,” says Bob Chapek, chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products. “Every experience in Batuu — from piloting the Millennium Falcon to building your own droid — puts guests deeper into their own Star Wars story.”
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Castillo de San Marcos
Olga’s Cantina
We traveled to Batuu this fall, about a month after opening day, and from the moment we approached the giant walled entrance, we knew we were about to experience a complete immersion into a new Star Wars universe. The entire galaxy has been created with great attention to detail, from the nametags of the Batuuan residents — otherwise known as Disney cast members — to the fonts and language used on the Traveler’s Guide (an attraction map). Even the trashcans blend right in with the theme. When you first enter the new land, you are not exactly sure which way to go, as you are free to take your own route deep into Batuu. We explored the land twice during our stay and took a different path each time. Going through the marketplace and exploring Black Spire Outpost, you feel as if you’re truly walking through this fictional planet’s streets, which are reminiscent of a Turkish market. Here guests find a collection of shops and stalls filled with authentic Star Wars creations.
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You can craft your own lightsabers or build you own droids in immersive, interactive retail experiences. For guests interested in building their own lightsaber or droid, reservations are required. In Savi’s Droid Depot Workshop— Handbuilt Lightsabers, four lightsaber themes are available, and you bring yours to life with the power of kyber crystals. At the Droid Depot, builders assemble a custom astromech unit. You first choose between the BB-series or the R-series, and then you receive your blueprints to begin. The custom lightsaber experience
is $199.99, and the droid workshop is $99.99. Immediately we came across iconic Star Wars characters, including Chewbacca and Rey, and another member of the Resistance — Vi Moradi. We even watched Chewy attempt to fix one of the Resistance X-wing starfighters.
travel (continued) »
travel (continued) »
Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
For guests who have been to Pandora, this is similar in terms of immersion experience, complete with unique beverage and food offerings exclusive to the land. We indulged and drank the iconic Blue Milk. (Star Wars fans will get the reference.) One of the most sought-out libation experiences here is Olga’s Cantina, which does accept reservations. However, even with entrance to the out-of-this-world watering hole, the cantina consists mainly of standing room, with limited seating. You might just come across bounty hunters, smugglers, rogue traders and other weary travelers all hoping to refuel and enjoy local music. Perhaps try to blend in as a crew member and try the Jedi Mind Trick cocktail. For those on the quest for food, Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo is a quick service option. To ensure authenticity in their designs for the land, it is reported that Disney
Imagineers visited Star Wars film sets in the United Kingdom. There they studied everything from ships to costumes and props to help inform their work on Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. They also worked closely with Lucasfilm, the George Lucas company that launched the popular movies. Additionally, in search of aesthetic inspiration for the land, the team of Disney Imagineers visited Lucas’ private archives in California to study original Star Wars concept artwork created by Ralph McQuarrie, the artist who helped Lucas shape the look of the Star Wars movies. In the design of this new land, there are two new attractions, one of which is already open, and the second, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, is slated to debut December 5. And don’t forget, the new movie “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker” opens as well in December. Walking through Batuu and coming
upon the Millennium Falcon was quite a sight. It serves as an amazing focal point for this galaxy. The attraction itself does not disappoint, and surprisingly the wait times have only been 30 to 80 minutes. As you prepare to board the Millennium Falcon, you are assigned a role, from pilot, gunner or engineer, and that determines where you sit during the ride. Then as you walk through the halls of the fastest ship in the galaxy, you enter the crew cockpit and prepare to take the controls. In this simulated ride, you navigate through an exhilarating experience and the ship responds to the actions you take with the controls. Since we rode this twice, we saw how the ending of the ride differs depending on how well you do during your flight. The Millennium Falcon ride is similar to the existing Star Tours attraction but much more interactive and intense. I mean, we took the Millennium Falcon into hyperspace and actually piloted the most famous ship in the galaxy! Disney says Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is its most ambitious, immersive and advanced attraction ever imagined. “Guests will join the Resistance and depart from Batuu in a transport ship to meet General Leia Organa at a secret rendezvous point,” Disney explains in a news release. “However, on their way to the hidden base, guests are intercepted and taken prisoner by the First Order as their ship is drawn into the hangar bay of a Star Destroyer. The action then ramps up as guests seek to escape the clutches of Kylo Ren and the First Order. The harrowing adventure will blur the lines between fantasy and reality on a scale never seen before in a Disney attraction.” Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is one of the largest attractions Disney has ever created. Its massive show building is a world unto itself, housing two full-sized AT-AT walkers and a Star Destroyer hangar bay — complete with a TIE fighter and a garrison of stormtroopers — plus more thrills and surprises, the release teases. We are already packing for our next galactic journey.
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« around town
Go a little nutty Coconut Festival is one of the most popular events in Cape Coral. It’s got national performers, carnival rides, fireworks, Polynesian dancers, cirque acts, stilt walkers and lots of food. Friday night is Country Night with David Lee Murphy, Runaway June and Cassadee Pope from “The Voice” Season 3. Saturday night is Rock Night with headliner Fran Cosmo, formerly of Boston. On Sunday, football gets projected on the big screen and kids 13 and younger get free admission with a paid adult. General admission is $5 (free for ages 5 and younger). Concert tickets are $10 at the gate, $25 for VIP (all three include general admission). Carnival ride wristbands are $25. The Coconut Festival runs November 7-10 on the Sun Splash Festival Grounds: 5 to 10 p.m. Thursday; 5 p.m. to midnight Friday; noon to midnight Saturday and noon to 8 p.m. Sunday. Get details and tickets at cocofest.com.
Inspiring Mirnavator to speak in Naples The Mirnavator is headed to Naples for a speaking engagement and book signing Tuesday, November 19 at Venue Naples. Mirna Valerio popped onto America’s radar with her blog Fat Girl Running. Then in 2017, she hit celebrity status when the REI-produced documentary “The Mirnavator” went viral. “Mirna is redefining what a ‘runner’ should look like and she is doing it with grace, humility and courage,” says Colby Robertson, executive director of Wellfit Girls, a Southwest Florida nonprofit that inspires and challenges teens through running. Mirna will talk about running and body image and sign copies of her book “A Beautiful Work in Progress” 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. November 19 at Venue Naples. Tickets are $75, VIP is $150. For details, visit wellfitgirls.org.
Fly high at Aviation Day Love airplanes and helicopters? The Page Field airport will have plenty to explore on Aviation Day, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, November 16. The aircraft line up on the north side of the airport. There’ll be plane and helicopter rides (fee), bounce houses, face painting, demos by rescue workers, food trucks and more. Free parking is available at North Airport Road and U.S. 41 with a shuttle to the entrance. Admission is free, but those attending are asked to bring a nonperishable food item to benefit the Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida. Get details at flylcpa.com/aviationday.
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Ring in the holidays Southwest Florida celebrates the holidays with gusto, and we start in November. Numerous places deck the halls and palm trees in twinkling lights and brilliant décor. Night Lights in the Garden at the Naples Botanical Garden and Holiday Nights at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates both start Friday, November 29. That’s about the same time Santa starts taking wish lists at the shopping malls. One of the earliest holiday kick-off events is the Lighting of the Village at Fishermen’s Village in Punta Gorda on Saturday, November 16. New this year is the Tree of Hope Tree Lighting Ceremony at David Lawrence Center’s main campus in Naples on Friday, November 22. The family-friendly event will have carolers, activities for the kids, a food truck and the lighting of the campus banyan tree. For more, explore the calendar pages and swflparentchild.com.
calendar »
PRESCHOOL & VPK
Friday, Nov. 1 American Indian Arts Celebration » 10 a.m.-5 p.m. November 1-2. Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum Festival Grounds, 34725 W. Boundary Road, Clewiston. Arts, crafts, food, hands-on activities, live music, dance demonstrations and wildlife presentations. $10 for adults, $7.50 for seniors and students, free for ages 4 and younger, museum members and tribal members. ahtahthiki.com/events
DANCE
Celebrating Since 1951
All Ages
Classical Ballet Pointe Tap Jazz Hip Hop Modern Acrobatics Children’s Work
(239)334-3274 www.dancebochette.com “Charlotte’s Web” » October 16-November 15. Broadway Palm, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. Everyone’s favorite pig is in the spotlight at the Broadway Palm. At the allages show, the buffet serves children’s favorites, like pizza, chicken fingers and fries. Lunch is at noon and show at 1 p.m. November 3 and 9, and at 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. November 1, 5, 7, 12 and 15. Tickets are $19 for all ages and include lunch. 239-278-4422. broadwaypalm.com
NEWBORN CARE
Florida International Air Show » November 1-3. Punta Gorda Airport, 28000 Airport Road, Punta Gorda. Feel the buzz of these high-flying performers. floridaairshow.com
Saturday, Nov. 2 2019 Fall Family Activity Days: Large Sculpture » 10 a.m.-noon. Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs, Center for Visual Arts, 26100 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs. On select Saturdays, families create art projects inspired by current exhibits. In November, put on your hardhat and come prepared to help assemble a large sculpture. artcenterbonita.org
RESALE & CONSIGNMENT
Science Saturdays » 9 a.m.-1 p.m. every Saturday. Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, 300 Tower Road, Naples. Hands-on discoveries for all ages, eco-crafts, a feature film and more. $5 for adults, free for ages 12 and younger. rookerybay.org/calendar SWFL Food Truck Nationals » 11 a.m.-7 p.m. JetBlue Park, 11500 Fenway South Drive, Fort Myers. There’ll be show cars, food, music and vendors. $5 for teens and adults, free for ages 12 and younger. rpcharities.com Walk the Talk for Epilepsy » 8 a.m. North Collier Regional Park, 15000 Livingston Road, Naples. Fundraiser for Epilepsy Florida. Family fun, raffles, prizes, DJ and more. Registration begins at 8 a.m. Walk is at 9 a.m. Day-of registration is $35 for adults, $20 for children. In advance: $25 and $15. epilepsyfl.com/walkthetalk
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« calendar Sunday, Nov. 3 Pine Island Elementary Fishing Tournament & Derby » 8:30 a.m. Olde Fish House Restaurant & Marina, 4530 Pine Island Road, Matlacha. Adult fishing starts at 7 a.m. (honor system). This is a “Catch/Photo & Release” tournament. Final photo submission is 3 p.m. $3,500 in cash prizes to be awarded. $75 per angler. Benefits Pine Island Elementary School. For child anglers, $35, fishing begins at 9 a.m. for grades 4-5, 10:45 a.m. for grades 2-3 and 12:15 p.m. for kindergartners and first-graders. There will also be silent auctions, raffles, live music, barbecue, and kids’ activities. matlachahookers.org
Tuesday, Nov. 5 Homeschool Day: Through Our Watershed » 9:30 a.m.noon. Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, 300 Tower Road, Naples. Students and their families take part in age-appropriate estuarine learning experiences led by Rookery Bay Reserve marine science educators. For grades 1-10. Registration required. rookerybay.org/calendar Wading Trips in Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve » 1:303:30 p.m. Bayside of Black Island, north of Lovers Key State Park. Join environmental specialists at Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve to explore the shallows and see what lives there. $5 suggested donation, free for children younger than 5. Registration required. Next ones: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. December 3 and 9-11 a.m. the first Tuesday of the month, January-April, plus May 12. 239-530-1003 or Estero.Bay@FloridaDEP.gov.
Thursday, Nov. 7 Fair at Fenway South » Weekends November 8-24. JetBlue Park, 11500 Daniels Parkway, south Fort Myers. This year, organizers added a third weekend. Gates open at 5 p.m. Fridays and 1 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, November 8-10, 15-17 and 22-24. Closes at 11 p.m. each night. There’s free entertainment, amusement rides, fair food and games of skill. Returning favorites include The Lance Gifford Illusion and Hypnotist Shows, Rosaire’s Royal Racing Pigs, and The Barnyard Petting Corral. All live entertainment and shows are included with fair admission. There’s also a high-flying motorcycle and trapeze show, circus performances, a large Kiddieland and more than 40 state fair-style amusement rides. Admission is $8. Ages 2 and younger admitted free. Ride bracelets are $25 at the fair, $20 in advance. BOGO coupons and other discounts available at fairatfenway.com.
Coconut Festival » November 7-10. Sun Splash Festival Grounds, 400 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral. Live entertainment, carnival rides, fireworks, food and more. General admission is $5 (free for ages 5 and younger). Concert tickets are $10 at the gate, $25 for VIP (all three include general admission). Carnival ride wristbands are $25. Hours are 5 to 10 p.m. Thursday; 5 p.m. to midnight Friday; noon to midnight Saturday and noon to 8 p.m. Sunday. cocofest.com.
Friday, Nov. 8 Walk on the Wild Side » 10 a.m. Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach. Join a park ranger for a guided hike along Black Island Trail. Reservations are required. Included with regular admission, $4 for a vehicle with one person, $8 for a vehicle with 2-8 people, $2 for pedestrians and cyclists. 239-463-4588.
Saturday, Nov. 9 Children and Youth Mental Health Conference » 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Florida Gulf Coast University, 10501 FGCU Blvd. S., Fort Myers. The keynote speaker is a former Marjory Stoneman Douglas student and founder and president of a nonprofit corporation dedicated to putting mental health curriculum in schools. Kai Koerber shares how the Parkland tragedy compelled his activism and creating a nonprofit to improve mental health for students. fgcu.edu/caringforkids Girls in Science Slumber » 5 p.m. November 9-8 a.m. November 10. Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, 300 Tower Road, Naples. Discover nature at night in this sleepover at the reserve Environmental Learning Center. For ages 8-14. $60, includes pizza and light snacks. Registration required. rookerybay.org/calendar Heart & Soul Gala » 6-10 p.m. Bonita Bay Club, 26660 Country Club Drive, Bonita Springs. Benefit to raise money to build a gymnasium for Bonita Springs Charter School. Tickets: $150. 239-992-6932. bonitaspringscharter.org Naples Yard and Garden Show » 9 a.m.-4 p.m. November 9 and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. November 10. University of Florida IFAS Collier County Extension, 14700 Immokalee Road, Naples. $5 for adults, free for ages 12 and younger. Plant vendors, educational lectures, activities for kids and more. 239-252-4800. sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/collier/ Pop-Up Play » 1-4 p.m. Florida SouthWestern State College, Lee Campus, 8099 College Parkway, Fort Myers. Pop-Up Play allows children of all ages to use their imagination and creativity while playing with a variety of materials including cardboard boxes and tubes, plastic crates, egg cartons and fabric. On the FSW Thomas Edison Campus practice field across from the Lockmiller Child Care Center. Free. facebook.com/events/2399264756998965 Concert in the Park » 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Estero Community Park, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd., Estero. The Village of Estero presents a free concert in the park to honor those who serve the community and nation. Patriotic and pop singer Lindsey Graham to perform. Free food. Fun for the kids. Plus 21-gun salute and taps. Lawn chairs encouraged.
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calendar » Sunday, Nov. 10 Autoberfest 2019 » 11 a.m. Naples-Fort Myers Greyhound Track, 10601 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs. Features 25 award-winning food trucks, luxury car show, kids’ zone and live music. $5 (cash only at the gate), free for ages 16 and younger. Benefits Quest for Success. Grand Opening and Dedication Ceremony of the Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center » 3-5 p.m. Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center, 975 Imperial Golf Course Blvd., Suite 108, Naples. Free. Features tours, talks and children’s activities. 239-263-9200. holocaustmuseumswfl.org
Monday, Nov. 11 Cape Coral Veterans Day Parade » 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Cape Coral Parkway, from Cape Coral Street west to Chester Street. The parade grand marshal is Anthony Stout, a veteran who served 27 years.
Wednesday, Nov. 13 Family Math Night » 5:45-7:30 p.m. Florida SouthWestern State College, Building U-102, 8099 College Parkway, Fort Myers. Free and open to students in grades preK5. Win prizes playing fun math games. facebook.com/ events/437105266926739
Thursday, Nov. 14 Fall Festival Carnival » November 14-17. Eagle Lakes Community Park, 11565 Tamiami Trail E., Naples. Carnival rides, games and food. Hours: 6-10 p.m. November 14-15, 3-10 p.m. November 16 and 2-10 p.m. November 17. 239252-3527. facebook.com/events/500392130755857
Friday, Nov. 15 America Recycles Day » 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, 300 Tower Road, Naples. Buy one admission, get one free in celebration of America Recycles Day. Regular admission is $5 for adults, $3 for ages 6-12, free for ages 5 and younger. rookerybay.org/ calendar “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” » 7 p.m. November 15 and 2 and 7 p.m. November 16. East Lee County High School, 715 Thomas Sherwin Ave., Lehigh Acres. The beloved musical based on the comic strip comes to life in this musical. $10 for adults, $5 for students. elchstheatre.ticketleap.com
Saturday, Nov. 16 2019 CHNEP Nature Festival » 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Laishley Park, 200 Laishley Court, Punta Gorda. The Coastal & Heartland National Estuary Partnership, aka CHNEP, celebrates the local environment with live animal exhibits, speakers, guided nature walks, games and food trucks. Free. chnep.org/2019-nature-festival
Aviation Day » 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Page Field Airport, 5200 Captain Channing Page Drive, Fort Myers. Attractions include experimental, antique and general aviation aircraft exhibits, aircraft rides (fee), bounce houses, clowns and face painting, demonstrations by airport police and fire departments and aviation-themed shopping and exhibitors. Free; nonperishable food items requested for The Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida. flylcpa.com/AviationDay Lighting of the Village » 5-9 p.m. Fishermen’s Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. The holiday season kicks off with a ribbon cutting, parade by Lee County Pipes & Drums, the lighting of more than a million lights, live music, free refreshments and visits and photos with Santa. Santa arrives at 5 p.m. via Punta Gorda Fire Chief Ray Brigg’s antique fire truck. Admission is toiletries or hygiene items for Share the Blessings Ministry. Parking fills up fast, so golf cart rides will be available to and from the event. 800-639-0020. fishville.com “Pippin” » November 16-24. Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. The youth cast performs “Pippin,” a hip, tongue-in-cheek fairy tale, at 7:30 p.m. November 16, 22 and 23 and at 2 p.m. November 17, 23 and 24. artinlee.org/youththeatre S.A.F.E. Girls » 10 a.m. Lee County Sheriff’s Office, 14750 Six Mile Cypress Parkway, Fort Myers. You are your own best defense. This class introduces a few basic self-defense moves that every woman, no matter her age, should know. The mother-daughter classes focus on the various situations a young lady may find herself in while developing her independence. For ages 13 and older; minors must be accompanied by an adult. 239258-3280 or CommunityRelations@SheriffLeeFL.org.
Monday, Nov. 18 Birding Beach Walk » 10 a.m. Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach. Join a park naturalist for a leisurely walk and learn about the birds you see along the way. Reservations are required. Included with regular admission, $4 for a vehicle with one person, $8 for a vehicle with 2-8 people, $2 for pedestrians and cyclists. 239-463-4588.
Tuesday, Nov. 19 The Mirnavator: Wellfit Girls Inspired Speaker Series » 5:30 p.m. Venue Naples, 13240 Tamiami Trail N., Naples. Ultrarunner and author of “A Beautiful Work in Progress,” Mirna Valerio shares her inspiring story of first-time racer to ultramarathoner proving that anyone with courage and determination can toe the start line to the world’s biggest races and find success. Mirna’s prejudice-busting, body-positive memoir is told with raw honesty, an adventurous spirit, and a sharp sense of humor. General admission is $75. VIP starts at $150 and includes admission to the main speaking event. 239529-0366. wellfitgirls.org
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« calendar Thursday, Nov. 21 “Sounds of Christmas” » November 21-December 25. Broadway Palm, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. The main stage show is a family-friendly production full of Christmas songs, dancing, dazzling costumes and a visit from Santa Claus. For show only, tickets are $26 for children, $48 for adults. For dinner and show, $30 for children, $63-$73 for adults. 239-278-4422. broadwaypalm.com
Friday, Nov. 22 Gopher Tortoise Walk » 10 a.m. Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach. Join a park ranger on a leisurely walk along the trails and learn about the gopher tortoise. Reservations are required. Included with regular admission, $4 for a vehicle with one person, $8 for a vehicle with 2-8 people, $2 for pedestrians and cyclists. 239-463-4588. Tree of Hope Tree Lighting Ceremony » 5:30-7:30 p.m. David Lawrence Center, 6075 Bathey Lane, Naples. Free family-friendly event to celebrate community, hope and healing with a tree lighting ceremony. The enormous banyan on campus is the tree. There will also be carolers and activities for children. Food truck will be on site.
Friday Nov. 22: “Michael Carbonaro Live!” » 7 p.m. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW, 13350 FSW Parkway, south Fort Myers. Michael Carbonaro performs comically perplexing and improbable feats of magic on his TV series “The Carbonaro Effect” on truTV. Family friendly. Tickets: $25-100. 239-481-4849. bbmannpah.com
Saturday, Nov. 23 Family Art Labs » 10 a.m.-noon. Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. A family art event the fourth Saturday of each month. Get inspired by the current exhibition, make art, play games and more. This month, paint sugar skulls on small flower pots and planters. Plants make great hair or fancy hats. artinlee.org Family Service Learning Fair » 9 a.m.noon. United Way, 7273 Concourse Drive, Fort Myers. A dozen or more nonprofits will offer a variety of hands-on projects for families who want to volunteer. Register at https://forms.gle/6Ffg9TJdcE5wNt7M7 or email MaryM@UnitedWayLee.org with family name and number of people in your group. Registration is not required; however, it helps in preparation of materials. 239-433-7567. unitedwaylee.org Kids Day » 10 a.m.-noon. Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero. Free. Activities and free pizza and ice cream to ages 12 and younger in WINK Playland. Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker Naples » 2 and 7 p.m. ArtisNaples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. Experience Tchaikovsky’s beautiful music and exceptional dancing by international stars. Family-friendly. artisnaples.org/ events/nutcracker-moscow-ballet-2019 Saints & Sinners Gala » The Westin Resort at Marina Village, 5951 Silver King Blvd., Cape Coral. Benefit for St. Andrew Catholic School featuring casino, auctions, fine dining and open bar, live entertainment and dancing. Tickets are $125 and must be purchased by November 15. sandsgala.com
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calendar »
Sunday, Nov. 24
Thursday, Nov. 28
Cape Coral Veg Fest 2019 » 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sun Splash Family Waterpark, 400 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral. Find local sources of eco-friendly and cruelty-free products. Learn about the science behind the benefits of a plant-based diet. Features expert speakers, cooking demos, vendors, entertainment and activities for the whole family. Free. capecoralvegfest.org
Thanksgiving Day 5k Run & Walk » 7 a.m. Hertz Arena, 11000 Everblades Parkway, Estero. Post-race festivities include music, refreshments and snacks. runeliteevents.com/thanksgiving-day-5k.html
Monday, Nov. 25 School Break Camp: LEGO Mechanics » 9 a.m.-4 p.m. November 25-27. Edison and Ford Winter Estates, 3583 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Build and explore simple machines and mechanisms. $135 for member, $150 for nonmembers. Registration required. 239-334-7419.
Tuesday, Nov. 26 Shelling & Beachcombing » 10 a.m. Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach. Join a park naturalist and discover what shells can be found on Lovers Key. Reservations are required. Included with regular admission, $4 for a vehicle with one person, $8 for a vehicle with 2-8 people, $2 for pedestrians and cyclists. 239-463-4588.
Wednesday, Nov. 27 Farm City BBQ » 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Cambier Park, 755 Eighth Ave. S., Naples. A Thanksgiving tradition that has raised more than $465,000 for local nonprofit organizations. Includes the event’s signature steak lunch and entertainment. $20. Benefits the Collier County 4H Association, Youth Leadership Collier, the Collier County Junior Deputies League and Key Club International. farmcitybbq.com/farm-city-bbq
Turkey Trot » 7:30 a.m. Cape Coral Hospital Wellness Center, 609 SE 13th Court, Cape Coral. The 40th annual Turkey Trot is a family tradition for many. Registration begins at 6 a.m., 5K Run/Walk at 7:30 a.m., 1-mile fun run at 8:45 a.m. (approximate), Tot Trot around 9:15 a.m. First 2,000 registrants guaranteed a T-shirt. Register: chronotrack.com/r/51757
Friday, Nov. 29 Holiday Nights » 6-9 p.m. Edison and Ford Winter Estates, 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. A tree lighting ceremony kicks off the holiday festivities at the Estates. New this year, the large Mysore fig tree will be lit with thousands of animated lights choreographed to music. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there the first night and every Sunday night, 6-8 p.m., until Christmas. The Children’s Tree Trail features 60 trees decorated by Lee County children. Live music and other entertainment continue nightly throughout the holiday season. Tickets are $20 for ages 20 and older, $10 for ages 13-19 and $2 for ages 6-12 (free for members and ages 5 and younger). Guided tours are an additional fee. Lee County residents get $5 off Mondays and Tuesdays. Get a full schedule at edisonford.org. Night Lights in the Garden » 6-9 p.m. November 29-January 5. Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples. The gardens are lit for the holidays and local artists perform. (No Night Lights festivities December 24, 25 or 31.) Tickets November 29-December 15 are $12 for members, $25 for nonmembers, $6/$12 for ages 4-14, free for ages 3 and younger. Prices increase December 16. 239-325-1354. naplesgarden.org PY1 Nights » Through March. Island Gardens, 980 MacArthur Causeway, Miami. Take a short trip to Miami for PY1 Nights, imagined by Cirque du Soleil co-founder Guy Laliberte. The event uses technology to produce multisensory experiences inside an enormous pyramid. By day, the event features family-friendly experiences, such as “Through the Echoes,” which uses visuals, music and light to tell the story of life from Big Bang to today. The show encourages kids and adults to move and
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« calendar
dance in “the biggest time machine ever built.” At night, the pyramid becomes a giant nightclub for adults only (21 and older). (This is also Art Basel time in Miami.) The show kicks off November 29 and runs through March. Tickets are $36.50-$54.50. 833-791-7469. py1.com Photos with Santa » 10 a.m. Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero. Free. Receive a photo with Santa every day November 29 until December 23. “The Elves and the Shoemaker” » November 29-December 24. Broadway Palm, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. A musical adaptation of the popular children’s story that imbues the lesson of the Golden Rule. $19 for all ages, includes buffet. Lunch is at noon and show at 1 p.m. November 29 and December 8, 14, 20, 22 and 24, and at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. December 3, 6, 12, 13 and 17. 239-278-4422. broadwaypalm.com
Friday, Dec. 6
“A Magical Cirque Christmas” » 8 p.m. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. Experience Christmas with cirque artists and holiday music. $39-$129. bbmannpah.com Endless Trails Holiday Mini Horses » Noon-2 p.m. Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero. Free. Keep an eye out for the holiday mini horses roaming the mall handing out candy canes to everyone on Santa’s Nice List. miromaroutlets.com
Visit swflparentchild.com for more events.
GETTY IMAGES
Golisano Children’s Hospital Fashion Show » Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa, 5001 Coconut Road, Bonita Springs. Fashion show, luncheon and auction to benefit Kids’ Minds Matter. $100. 239-594-0033. leehealthfoundation.org/golisanofashionshow
Saturday, Dec. 7
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Ed Mullen is the founder and chairman of Pan-Florida Challenge. He resides in Southwest Florida with his wife, Sue.
voices »
GUEST COLUMNIST
Pan-Florida Challenge expands to help prevent cancer
I
don’t cry often, but I’ll tell you one time that I did. I participated in a bike event in Massachusetts that funded cancer research. Pedaling my last mile of over 100, the course was lined with pictures of cancer survivors and those who lost their fight to the disease. The pictures featured children, teens, adults, men and women — all ages, all races. I couldn’t stop thinking about these brave people and how I could help them. My charity work has focused on feeding hungry children in Florida — we’ve provided more than 5 million meals in five years. I’ve recently learned about the connection between a lack of nutrition or poor nutrition in children and the increased chance of them developing cancer later in life. This “aha” moment propelled Pan-Florida Challenge to expand our mission to include cancer prevention. While feeding hungry children remains a key component to our mission, the focus is making sure we can help children and adults avoid a cancer diagnosis, or other chronic disease, as a result of poor nutrition, malnutrition or chronic hunger. We’re vigilant in educating and bringing more attention to the importance of healthy eating and its role in prevention. Parents should understand the vital
role of nutrition, as well, and how they can play a proactive role starting in the kitchen. The World Health Organization recommends incorporating meals that include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and beans. It’s critical to also limit sugary treats and snacks. Following these dietary guidelines have been proven to significantly reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancers. The decision to expand our mission also came with a need for more attention in our community on preventative research and the practice of prevention overall. I thought, “Pan-Florida Challenge can do more — we can make a bigger difference.” It’s becoming essential that we know as much as we can about this disease and how nutrition plays a part in it. Improving childhood nutrition won’t completely eliminate the risk of developing cancer or other life-threatening diseases, but it certainly goes a long way in reducing the frequency. We can all begin to learn more about the causeand-effect relationship between food, cancer and our health — and how we can make it a priority to eat healthy. Pan-Florida Challenge hopes to continue trailblazing this cause and chipping away at a solution.
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2019 » 57
» last look
CLIPS FOR CANCER Fort Myers Mayor Randy Henderson joined Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida Chief Administrative Officer Armando Llechu and others to have their heads shaved by pediatric cancer patients September 27 during the Clips for Cancer event to raise awareness and money for Barbara’s Friends— Golisano Children’s Hospital Cancer Fund. Here, the mayor gets a hug from Sarai Hernandez-Salinas.
MICHAEL A CARONCHI/SPECIAL TO SW FL PARENT & CHILD
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PURSUE YOUR PASSIONS. EXPLORE THE POSSIBILITIES.
Join us for Open House NOVEMBER 11 @ 9:30 a.m. All Grades
Independent PK3-12 College Prep School
DECEMBER 5
@ 8:30 a.m. Pre-K - Kindergarten
Register in advance by visiting our website or call 239.415.8945 www.canterburyfortmyers.org
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2019 » 59
Kid-sized emergency care designed with kids in mind.
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