SWFL Parent & Child November 2018 by SWFL Parent & Child Magazine

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

NOVEMBER 2018

Healthy Children Healthy Families Let Our Family Take Care of Your Family

Newborn care – Lactation Services Well child checkups Appointments available 7 days a week Same day “sick” appointments Vaccinations Teen wellness Reach Out and Read participant

www.ppcswfl.com | 239.275.5522

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

Physician-Owned. Patient-Centered

www.ppcswfl.com | 239.275.5522 SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 3

• Over 90 stores, restaurants and services • Family friendly events monthly, watch website fro updates • Children’s Play Area at Market Plaza • Conveniently located on I-75 and Alico Road, exit 128

9903 GULF COAST MAIN STREET, FORT MYERS, FL 33913 (239) 267-5107 | www.GulfCoastTownCenter.com

MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR CHILD'S FUTURE A TRADITION OF

100%

ACCEPTANCES TO COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES

Join us for OPEN HOUSE NOVEMBER 29 @ 8:45 a.m.

Pre-K3, Pre-K4, & Kindergarten

To register, please visit our website or call 239.415.8945 www.canterburyfortmyers.org

4 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS NOW! Independent PK3-12 College Prep School Member of The National Association of Independent Schools Accredited by The Florida Council of Independent Schools

contents »

swfl

parent&child

Features

In Every Issue

29 veteran connection

Dining out with the kids can be fun and educational. Here’s how to make it more affordable, where kids eat free and where to find some of the best kids’ menus.

PHOTO BY AMANDA INSCORE

S W F L PA R

ENTCHILD

27 dining out

How to help a child through trauma

Poached in Naples and Bonita Springs

19 single parenting

44 safety corner

A tragic loss helps her develop gratitude

Simple rules to keep kids safe on the playground

21 youth sports

49 travel

Tips for juggling youth sports commitments and the holidays

On the cover Layla Campbell, 5, of Cape Coral, is the daughter of Phillip and Rosie Campbell and sister to Mia Campbell, 8. Layla was photographed on location at True Food Kitchen in the Waterside Shops, Naples.

How to find cool places to volunteer

17 ask the expert

A local family and a budgeting expert share tips for living on less

35 dining with kids

25 teens

Raising an “edgy” child requires a fine line

Popular student club undertakes big projects to honor military veterans

31 surviving financially

a mother’s view

New York City during the holidays is an unforgettable experience

22 kid stuff

56 voices

New climbing walls at Miromar Outlets win over kids and parents

Horses are helping Kimmy thrive in life

58 a father’s view .COM

Singing the homework blues

Other Departments 7 8 11 13

editor’s note online me time 5 things

14 45 52 53

fyi family album around town calendar

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 5

Join us for Open House JANUARY 8 @ 8:30 a.m. Grades PK3-11

Need-Based Merit Scholarship Testing DECEMBER 8 or DECEMBER 10

For current 5th and 8th grade students entering grades 6 and 9 in 2019-20

TO REGISTER, please visit our website or call 239.415.8945 www.canterburyfortmyers.org “My Canterbury education has given me everything, and it has made me into who I am today. Canterbury has taught me how to be thankful for and utilize the gifts I have, how to strive for a goal and reach it, and how to make the most of an opportunity.” Michael Morell ’18 Canterbury, Class of 2018 United States Naval Academy, Class of 2022

Independent PK3-12 College Prep School Member of The National Association of Independent Schools Accredited by The Florida Council of Independent Schools

6 » NOVEMBER 2018 » 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

Part of the USA TODAY Network

2442 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33901 swflparentchild.com President & Publisher William R. Barker General Manager Kathryn Robinson Kinsey kathryn@swflparentchild.com Editor Pamela Smith Hayford (239) 335-0448 pamela@swflparentchild.com Art Director Lindi Daywalt-Feazel

Editorial Contributors Echo Copeland, Jim Dwyer, Sally Kreuscher, Kira Lewis, Ann M. O’Phelan, Tandy McGrail, Janis B. Meredith, Shelby Reynolds, Andrea Stetson, Stefanie Swift, Leigh Tahirovic, Jennifer Thomas Photographer Amanda Inscore Vice President/Advertising Sales Nancy M. Solliday Specialty Publications Team Coordinator Dennis Wright dennis@swflparentchild.com Advertising Account Executive Nicole Holey (239) 281-6455 nholey@fortmyer.gannett.com

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

Remember dining alone? Just the two of you? When you could enjoy each other’s company over an exquisite meal, even on the spur of the moment? I’m not sure my husband and I appreciated those days enough. Kids change everything. There are nap schedules to work around, foods to avoid, outbursts to quell. With my own kids, it wasn’t long before they tired of shapeless chicken nuggets and fries. They wanted food like Mom and Dad’s. And who can blame them? Then their appetites grew as they became teenagers — and the bill along with it. We’re guessing you feel our pain. Or at least you’re somewhere on that same journey. This month, we’re sharing some great spots to get primo kids’ menus. We also have a ton of tips to help you spend less on those family excursions. And then there’s our list of Where Kids Eat Free (or nearly free). It all starts on page 35. Living in Southwest Florida is expensive. Restaurants charge tourist prices, rents are high, wages don’t keep up with the cost of living. How is a family to survive in Southwest Florida? We talk with a local family about how they manage and get tips from a family budget expert starting on page 31. Hopefully their insight helps local families with this very real struggle. Even if you are struggling through challenging times, I highly recommend reading the Single Parenting column (page 19). I happened to read it during a stressful week, and it made me stop in my tracks and count my blessings. Just in time for a beautiful season of gratitude. PHOTO BY BRIAN TIETZ

Volume 19, Issue 11 Dedicated to serving the families of Lee and Collier counties

Member of

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

swflparentchild.com

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 7

» online

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

Students eliminate party politics

Get SWFL Parent & Child anywhere at any time LIKE US ON FACEBOOK facebook.com/swflparentchild FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @swflparentchild FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @swflparentchild

Find out how a group of 4H kids shut out partisan divide in their mock legislature exercise in Tallahassee. A Fort Myers student talks about the experience in an article on swflparentchild.com.

FIND US ON PINTEREST pinterest.com/swflparentchild

READ US ON ISSUU issuu.com/swflparentchild

Miss an issue?SWFL You oughta be in pictures

See extended photo galleries from our Family Album pages on our new website, swflparentchild.com. These kids are so cute, it’s gotta brighten your day.

EXPLORE the Gardens of the Globe

Parent & Child magazine is available in its entirety online along with back issues, too. Just visit swflparentchild.com and scroll to the bottom of the page.

No Passport Required. You’ll discover more than just stunning plants and landscapes on this 170-acre property. With lush, tropical cultivated gardens and native preserve inspired by plants and cultures from around the globe between the 26th latitude north and 26th latitude south, Naples Botanical Garden is a truly unique destination. Nine Cultivated Gardens | Nature Preserve Walking Trails | Smith Children’s Garden Splash Fountain & Butterfly House Chabraja Visitor Center Berger Shop in the Garden | Fogg Café

4820 Bayshore Drive / 239.643.7275

NAPLESGARDEN.ORG 8 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

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

a mother’s view » K IR A LE WIS

My daughter’s edgy And I hope she never changes

hen my daughter was little, she was a fairly easy baby and toddler. Probably because she didn’t walk until she was almost 18 months and didn’t really begin to talk until after she turned 2. For the better part of her first years of life, she was often content to just sit quietly watching the world around her. People were constantly praising me for how well she behaved. But right near her third birthday, things began to change. I honestly don’t recall the exact details of the exchange between her and me. But I can vividly picture that day in my mind when my daughter for the very first time planted her feet, glared at me and spit out some of the most shockingly defiant words I’d ever heard come out of her sweet little mouth. I also remember that my mother happened to be with me at the time, and she simply chuckled. “Looks like you’ve got an edgy one there. She reminds me of someone else I know.” She was, of course, referring to me but could have just as easily been talking about herself as well.

Edginess definitely runs in the females in our family. And while this had been my daughter’s first real demonstration of this trait, more would follow rapidly and in abundance. It quickly became clear to me that, in those quiet early years, my daughter had been conducting a thorough observation and analysis of her environment and developing some very strong opinions about who she was in relation to it all. Now, she had reached the point that she was ready to fully voice those opinions in words and actions. Yep, without a doubt, she had inherited the “edgy” gene. What do I mean by “edgy”? It may sound a bit derogative, but it’s really not. More than anything it means knowing her mind and not being afraid to express herself or stand her ground when she knows she is right. It also means she isn’t always nice or willing to compromise in order to please other people. In many ways, these are things we should all want in our daughters. Especially, in today’s world. Unfortunately, it isn’t how our society usually rewards girls for behaving, and it creates some challenges when it comes to parenting

them. Part of the reason it’s termed “edgy” is because it is a fine line to walk. As the mother of a little girl like this, I have to help her understand the difference between asserting herself and being disrespectful — but let her know that respect is earned and setting healthy boundaries is good. I have to teach her that sometimes it is better to be kind, than to be right, because often her words can be harsh. But I also don’t want to discourage her from speaking up for what is right, both for herself and others. And most importantly, even though she can make me crazy and some days being her mama is exhausting, I try very hard not to tame her spirit or to make her feel like somehow who she is wrong. I know the world is going to tell her that her whole life, I’ve already seen it and I’ve lived it myself, as has her grandmother. But if she can make it through her childhood with that edginess still intact, it will serve her well one day. Just like it has me and her grandmother and many other strong women in her family before her.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 9

10 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

me time »

Prairie dreams Earthy, embroidered looks are making a comeback this fall.

Casual beauty Sweet, carefree and completely comfortable. This Rewind swing dress comes in a variety of floral prints, including Prairie Rose pictured here. $32.99 at Kohl’s.

Very versatile More than meets the eye The artisan style of the Margery leather wallet might beguile the casual observer. Inside, you’ll find extensive interior organization. The three-sided zip entry with braided leather pull makes for easy open and close. $125 at Jennifer’s in Fort Myers, jennifersftmyers.com.

This cotton buttondown can be dressed up or down. Wear with shorts to the fair or a smart pair of slacks to the office. $59.90 at express. com.

Bring your own luck

DATE

NIGHT

Coach’s Prairie Rivet high-top sneakers sport nostalgic studded detail on the side and a lucky little horseshoe charm on the back. Totally cool. $177 at 6pm. com.

Prairies aren’t just for Kansas. Visit one of our own. Order take-out from a favorite restaurant and enjoy a picnic lunch at Prairie Pines Preserve in North Fort Myers, where you can also explore 20 miles of hiking and equestrian trails. Get details at leegov.com/conservation2020/preserves.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 11

MIROMAR OUTLETS

Voted the Best Factory Outlet Mall, Best Shopping Experience and Best Place to Buy Shoes in Southwest Florida

NOVEMBER EVENTS ROCK CLIMBING FUNWALLS PLAYLAND Now Open in Climb the walls! Our newest attraction features 16 walls for all skills, including 2 speed walls. Party packages available at MiromarOutlets.com/play or call (239) 948-3766 AMAZING THINGS Suite 323, (239) 262-9464 Our newest 5D theater puts you in the heart of the action! Party packages available at MiromarOutlets.com/play or call (239) 948-3766 LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Saturdays and Sundays various times and locations Saturdays from 1 to 7 p.m. and Sundays from 2 to 5 p.m. Free live entertainment throughout the mall with a variety of performers and music styles. DOG DAZE AT MIROMAR Thursday, November 1 6 to 8 p.m. in the Restaurant Piazza Enjoy pet-friendly specials and entertainment at participating stores and restaurants. CAR CRUISE-IN Sunday, November 4 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. near PLAYLAND, Lakeside See your favorite makes and models of classic, exotic and custom cars. VETERANS DAY SIDEWALK SALE Friday, November 9 thru Sunday, November 11 Enjoy additional savings on already low factory outlet prices. SCIENCE SATURDAY Saturday, November 10 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in PLAYLAND Join Mr. Glen and his Science & Engineering team for interactive science projects.

FRIDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES Friday, November 16 6 to 9 p.m. in the Restaurant Piazza Local bands perform in the Restaurant Piazza. FAMILY YOGA WITH KATHRYN Saturday, November 17 PLAYLAND 10 a.m. in A FREE 45-minute beginners’ yoga class, for families. KIDS DAY Saturday, November 17 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in PLAYLAND Kids from toddlers to twelve are invited to participate in fun activities.

mainstreetsmiles.com Ft. Myers Cape Coral Naples

MOMS APPRECIATION DAY Wednesday, November 21 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in PLAYLAND Moms receive a coupon for a free drink and treat from le macaron french pastries while their children have fun at Free Kids Crafts.

00 New Patient Exam Oral Exam (0150), X-rays (0272) Cleaning (1120), Fluoride (1208)

Braces for New Patients

Welcome to ocean camp, with a side of holiday magic.

FREE KIDS CRAFTS Every Wednesday 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in PLAYLAND

Winter Camp at Sanibel Sea School means wetsuits, chilly waves, and warming up with hot chocolate. Join us for the most festive time of the year! To learn more, visit sanibelseaschool.org or call (239) 472-8585.

BABY BOOT CAMP Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday 9 a.m. in PLAYLAND FITNESS CAMP Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 6:30 a.m. in PLAYLAND

SAVE UP TO 70% OFF RETAIL PRICES! Over 140 Top Designer and Brand Name Outlets including Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th, Neiman Marcus Last Call, Bloomingdale’s The Outlet Store 1118-2059

NP-0000964617

650 OFF

Let’s Celebrate the Sea-son!

PHOTOS WITH SANTA Friday, November 23 thru Saturday, December 23 Make an everlasting memory and receive a photo with Santa at Miromar Outlets.

12 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

*DOES NOT APPLY TO DOWN PAYMENT, CANNOT BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH INSURANCE. THE PATIENT OR ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT THAT IS PERFORMED A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT. DR. GALLO LIC.# DN20050, LIC.# DN12135. EXPIRES 11/30/18. MAIN STREET CHILDREN’S DENTISTRY & ORTHODONTICS COMPLIES WITH APPLICABLE FEDERAL CIVIL RIGHTS LAWS AND DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE ON THE BASIS OF RACE, COLOR, NATIONAL ORIGIN, AGE, DISABILITY, OR SEX. ATENCIÓN: SI HABLA ESPAÑOL, TIENE A SU DISPOSICIÓN SERVICIOS GRATUITOS DE ASISTENCIA LINGÜÍSTICA. LLAME AL 1-(888-764-5399) OFFICE NUMBER OR REGIONAL NUMBER (TTY: 1-(888-764-5399) OFFICE NUMBER OR REGIONAL NUMBER). ATANSYON: SI W PALE KREYÒL AYISYEN, GEN SÈVIS ÈD POU LANG KI DISPONIB GRATIS POU OU. RELE 1-888-764-5399 (TTY: 1- (888-764-5399).

BEFORE MIDNIGHT AT MIROMAR Thursday, November 22 at 10 p.m. Kick-off the Holiday shopping season Thanksgiving night with incredible door-buster offers and the opportunity to win spectacular giveaways.

(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

Braces Special

Children’s Special *

239.567.9480 239.443.5988 239.963.1135

A nonprofit organization.

5 things »

The Kids’

TABLE Kids aren’t completely oblivious. They see the kids’ table as second class to the main Thanksgiving setup. Elevate their standing with these fun additions.

Serve up flair Kids often get paper or the everyday plates instead of the china used by the grown-ups. Give them something special with these shatter-proof little numbers. They add holiday flair with no risk of damaging Grandma’s fine porcelain. $6.50 at Pottery Barn Kids, potterybarnkids.com.

Give them something to do Restless little ones can occupy their time with games and coloring on this Thanksgiving activity tablecloth. Made of paper, it measures 54 inches by 88 inches. (There’s also a Christmas one.) $7.50 at target.com.

Thankful little turkeys The Turkey on the Table, created by two moms, encourages kids to express gratitude. The kids write what they’re thankful for on the feathers and stick them into the knit turkey until it’s fully “dressed.” The full kit is $39.99 and comes with a book to help young children understand the concept. Available at Bed Bath & Beyond, Michaels and turkeyonthetable.com.

Add some pop The grown-ups will appreciate the fall colors. The kids will love the pop. These party crackers from the Grateful Harvest Collection are $19.99 for a set of eight at Pier 1 Imports, pier1.com.

Gobble, gobble, giggle This is what Thanksgiving has been missing all along. Something silly. Something fun. A Thanksgiving headband. It’s made of felt and fastens with Velcro. $12 at Pottery Barn Kids, potterybarnkids. com. SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 13

« fyi

Southwest Florida’s rockin’ band The Bumbles and the Honeybees Too has been working on its second album, now available on iTunes. You might have seen these buzzworthy musicians perform their upbeat children’s music at our Family Fun Expo or more recently at the Halloween Spooktacular on Fifth Avenue South. The new album is getting a lot of air play on Funky Kids Radio. “Let’s Make Friends” is available on iTunes for $9.99. Get the buzz at bumblesshow.com.

‘Ninja Brothers’ reframes ADHD Fortune 500 CEO turned children’s author (and local resident) Robert Martin recently released his latest endeavor: the first in a series of books aimed at addressing mental health issues in children. “The Amazing Ninja Brothers: Entering the Deep Unknown” features two brothers who use their special powers to help friends with minds that work differently. The first installment addresses attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD. Net proceeds go to Robert’s fund, Bridge to a Cure Foundation, which is under the umbrella of the Southwest Florida Community Foundation. For ages 8-12. $7.99 to $15.99 on Aerio, Amazon and robertmartinauthor.com.

Shake your veggies Getting kids to eat their vegetables can be tough. That’s why Publix stores introduced vegetable-infused milkshakes by Sneakz Organics, which is based in Jupiter, Florida. Sneakz says the shakes are especially popular during hurricane season, when easy, nutritious meals are a little harder to come by.

14 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

The Bumbles are back with a new album

ways to give back It’s the month of Thanksgiving and the commencement of the holiday season. If there’s a most generous time of the year, it’s now. Here are four ways to help: » Taylor Reis, the 8-yearold who graced the August cover of SW FL Parent & Child, is collecting pajamas for children in foster care, many of whom have had to leave their home suddenly with only the clothes they’re wearing. Taylor plans to deliver the pajamas to the Donate4Kidz Foundation (donate4kidz.org). You can arrange donations through her mom, Ariadna Reis, 239258-8580. » Buying all the fixings for Thanksgiving dinner is expensive. The Heights Foundation’s Bountiful Blessings Thanksgiving Outreach is collecting food and money to help low-income families in the area have a bountiful Thanksgiving dinner. Donations can be dropped off 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. MondayFriday until Thursday, November 15 at The Heights Center, 15570 Hagie Drive, south Fort Myers. » Community Cooperative is collecting turkeys (and cash). The goal for its Full Plates Project is 2,000

birds. The project provides prepared Thanksgiving dinners for people who can’t cook (physically can’t, not the ones who burn buns or cook the turkey upside down) and Thanksgiving dinner kits for those who are able to cook but can’t afford it. Drop off food donations at 3429 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Fort Myers by Friday, November 16. Get details or donate financially at communitycooperative.com. » Adopt a single-mother family for the holidays through A Mom’s Helping Hand of Southwest Florida. Donations can vary: toys, food, personal items, table decorations. Sign up at amomshelpinghandofswfl. com/swfl-santas. » The Immokalee Foundation is looking for mentors who can give an hour each week to guide the next generation. Contact Michelle Kennedy at 239-657-2461 or mentor@ immokaleefoundation. org. Get details at immokaleefoundation.org/ volunteer-or-mentor.

Health experts urge flu shot The flu killed 80,000 people in the United States last year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Lee Health and the Florida Department of Health urge all Floridians 6 months and older to get a flu shot. Anyone who gets the flu can infect others about a day before symptoms develop and continue infecting up to seven days after becoming sick. People at high risk of flu complications include children younger than 5 and pregnant women. And remember to wash your hands properly! More details are available at flufreeflorida.com.

We are currently looking for an experienced teacher to join our team!

Cape cinema makeover The Marquee Cinemas in Cape Coral has been getting a makeover this fall. As part of the renovation, each auditorium gets over-sized, leather electric-powered recliners with cup holders and an elevated footrest. The new seating options come with reserved ticketing. The theater is open during the remodel. And while we’re on the subject of Marquee, did you know Tuesday is Family Night? Everyone gets the child discount.

Experience and training in this field is preferred and all applicants must be at least 18 years old.

• New Born through School Age Children • 18 Years of Private Business • ELC School Readiness Provider

ENROLL NOW!

FREE - Daily 5 Hours VPK starting 11/26/2018

10-year-old creates mini library “I wanted to open a little free library close to my home, because lots of people do not have easy access to books,” says Evelin Rienzo, a Girl Scout and fifth-grader at Tanglewood Elementary School in Fort Myers. The mini library allows children to borrow books for free. It’s the second installation that And Literacy for All has worked on with Girl Scout Troop 292. This mini lending library is located at Jefferson Park, 1610 Jefferson Ave., Fort Myers.

New Enrollment Only!

Certificates available at the office of Early Learning Coalition of SW FL, 2675 Winkler Ave., Ft. Myers

Pre-School Education, 3 to 5 year-olds

Lehigh Child Care Center’s pre-school program helps children achieve school readiness in all areas of academic and social learning.

The Best Licensed, Privately Owned Preschool in Southwest Florida. “Give your child the best education” www.mylccc.com Mon-Fri, 6.30 am - 6.30 pm

1491 East Point Drive Lehigh Acres entrance behind CVS

239-369-5437 Lehigh We are here! Regional * E. Point Dr. Medical Center Lee Blvd. Huntdale St. E Entrance behind CVS

How do you celebrate Toy Store Day? You read that right. November 10 is Neighborhood Toy Store Day. The American Specialty Toy Retailing Association is promoting mom-and-pop toy stores, such as Cheshire Cat Fine Toys in the Bell Tower Shops, south Fort Myers. We also like Pop Toy Co. in The Shoppes at Vanderbilt in Naples. The ASTRA has a store finder online at astratoy.org/shop-local/ store-finder. NP-0000957665

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 15

« well-being

Help us improve mental health services for kids The struggles to obtain the right mental health services for kids in crisis in Southwest Florida has long been recognized by parents fighting for that help. Florida ranks 37th in the nation for youth mental health measures, according to the nonprofit Mental Health America. The ranking points to a higher prevalence of mental illnesses and lower access to care. A Lee Health survey of county residents last year found more than 74 percent of respondents believe mental health is a “major problem” in Southwest Florida. Another 19 percent believe it’s at least somewhat of a

16 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

problem. Southwest Florida Parent & Child and The News-Press are working on a series about mental health services for kids. We’d like to hear from parents. Does your child have a mental illness? Have they received counseling? Or been subject to the state’s Baker Act? We want to know what’s worked, what hasn’t, and what you think Southwest Florida needs to do to better serve kids. If you are willing to share your family’s story, please email Frank Gluck, fgluck@ news-press.com, or Janine Zeitlin, jzeitlin@ news-press.com. Or call 239-335-0356.

Sources of help Mental Health America offers a youth screening tool online, though the organization strongly notes it is not a diagnostic tool but rather a starting point for a conversation with a healthcare provider or pediatrician. Doctors can offer inhouse screenings for referrals. The National Alliance on Mental Illness also offers a helpline: 800-950-6264. Text NAMI 741-741 to be connected 24/7 to a trained crisis counselor for crisis support.

Stefanie Swift, MS, MHC, is a registered mental health counseling intern in Fort Myers, Florida ambassador to the National Association of Psychometrists and a mom. stefanieswiftcounseling.com.

ask the expert » STEFA NIE SWIF T

The wounded child

How to help a child through trauma, whether that trauma is abuse, the death of a loved one, a natural disaster or divorce.

et’s talk childhood trauma. Not the kind on late night television or in books, but rather trauma that happens in our own community, neighborhoods, schools, and for some, in our homes. I know: trauma in our schools? I thought the same thing until I started working with children in our community. Many of them have experienced one or more types of trauma in their young lives, many before the age of 2. I also came to learn that trauma affects most of us at one point or another in our lives, although not necessarily in the same ways. What’s interesting is that the way in which we perceive the traumatic event becomes more important than the event itself. How we perceive it will determine how we feel and remember the event, thus making it a traumatic memory. So what is childhood trauma and how does it affect our community here in Southwest Florida? Trauma is when a child witnesses, hears about, or is involved in an event by which they feel extremely threatened. There are several types of early childhood experiences that are traumatic. Frequently in our schools, and with our children, we see nine types: abuse, neglect, parental substance use/alcoholism, absent parents (incarceration or abandonment), divorce, domestic violence, death of a parent, natural disasters and community violence.

Typically, when children are exposed to one or more of these traumas, they may express themselves in one of two ways: internalize feelings (turn inward with anxiety or depression) or externalize feelings (behavioral problems, fighting, talking back, etc.). The children who internalize may be overlooked in class, thought of as unambitious or lazy, considered shy or quiet, etc., while children who externalize are thought of as problem children, hyperactive, argumentative, aggressive, etc. It’s helpful to consider the age of the child when the trauma was experienced. This is important because of typical brain development and certain windows of opportunity for healthy attachment and growth to take place. When we think about brain development, we look at it in a bottom up way of developing. At the bottom is the brainstem, which develops in utero while the unborn baby is still growing inside of the mother. The brain stem is responsible for all the automatic functions of the body necessary for survival, such as breathing, heartbeat, etc. Next is the limbic system (develops in the first two years of life), which is responsible for regulating emotions and our fightor-flight response. And finally, we come to our cortex (fully developed by age 25), which is responsible for thinking, making decisions, planning, organization — pretty much anything we need to do to function successfully in the

world (executive functioning). This is the part where I’m going to zero in on the limbic system: your fight–or–flight center of the brain, the body’s stress response system. This is the area of the brain responsible for encoding, storing and retrieving those traumatic memories. When the brain becomes alerted of a threat (a traumatic event or memory of that event) the limbic system fires up and the cortex (thinking part of the brain) shuts down, which is why it’s so hard to think clearly during stressful events. During the event this memory is stored without really having been processed in the thinking part of the brain. Our body’s stress response system prepares us to fight, flee or freeze during the event and responds to the threat physiologically (eyes dilate, sugar, cortisol and adrenaline are released, heart rate increases, etc.). Children, when triggered by their environment or their own thoughts, automatically go into response mode and are unable to think through the situation differently in order to respond in a more carefully thought-through manner. It doesn’t have to be recent trauma. So how can you help? Here are a few quick tips for helping a child, maybe your own, cope and heal through past trauma: 1. Be a safe person and offer safe emotional space for them to talk.

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

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 17

« ask the expert (continued) The child may be used to a certain unsafe reaction when telling their story. Be the person who provides a safe emotional holding space for them to share. You don’t need to fix any problems, just listen with love and be there during that time — no judgment, no reaction. 2. Encourage the child to have a creative outlet.

Try journaling or art projects that allow the child to freely express their story and share their feelings related to the trauma memories. Maybe this is through painting, sports, baking, drawing, dancing, singing — anything that allows the child to be free in expressing their feelings. 3. Be consistent and don’t make promises you can’t keep. Children exposed to trauma are used to broken

promises. They have learned that adults can’t be trusted and that follow-through is rare. Be realistic in what you can commit to and stick with it. 4. Practice healthy boundaries. Many children exposed to trauma have not experienced healthy boundary setting before — these boundaries are paramount to developing healthy relationships now and later. If you’re feeling burnt out emotionally, or are overwhelmed or frustrated, grab a good book on healthy boundaries with children and indulge in this reading with your favorite cup of coffee or tea. It will pay its weight in gold. 5. Teach, practice and live by mindfulness. Mindfulness, deep breathing and grounding exercises will help quiet down the limbic system when it’s triggered. Practice this frequently with the child so that they can learn to self-regulate their own emotions and gain control over traumatic memories. 6. Seek professional counseling for the child by a play therapy counselor. Play is the language of children.

Through play therapy children can express themselves with a trained professional who will allow them to tell their story while correcting any distorted perceptions of the event. 7. Practice self-care of your own or seek professional help if you feel overwhelmed. If you are experiencing

emotional burnout (which is SO normal) this road will be long. Seek some help (early on) and take care of yourself, even if it means taking a few days to unwind away from the child(ren) or taking an afternoon once a week to see a counselor of your own. 8. And lastly, know you are a mandated reporter in the state of Florida. Any adult who believes a child may

be abused or neglected must place a call to 800-96-ABUSE (800-962-2873) to make a report to help keep that child safe. If you don’t feel comfortable making this call, remember you can do so without leaving your name; try making the call with a close friend, spouse or loved one. As we heal from a trauma, we may find that life has a new normal. Be patient, be present and be consistent. Trauma doesn’t have to control our little ones. Help them find healthy ways to heal and take back control of their emotions.

18 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

single parenting »

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

ECHO COPEL A ND

An attitude of gratitude

Sometimes being grateful means pausing to appreciate and enjoy life and loved ones.

e often joked about it, though it wasn’t very funny. He said that he would have “fun” once he got to a certain age. He was going to retire in a few years, and that is when he could take the vacation he wanted or relax and take care of his health. A beloved member of my family, Fernando was a hard worker, and it seemed as if he was just about to have all his dreams come true. He didn’t know what was ahead for him and somehow forgot that tomorrow is not promised. We bury him next week. His death came as a shock to most of us. I’m sure this story is all too familiar. You know the one. Where someone denies himself the pleasures and excitement in life, thinking that a time will come when there are no more obligations or work to be done. A special day where he can finally relax and do as he pleases. One day will come. One day, I will have the chance

to go on a weekend getaway, but right now, I must focus on this project for my boss. Not only was Fernando ill for a long time, he denied his illness up until taking his last breath. He had a lot of pride and didn’t want others to know what he was going through. He just knew he had more time. Even as the illness ravaged his body and subsequently his mind, he refused to believe that he wouldn’t get that chance for those vacations and for the relaxation he always wanted, and now, finally retired, he should have. He missed out on everything he wanted to do, because he waited. He postponed his life, while missing the point that he was living all along. I can honestly say that I have found my rhythm, my groove. Teaching these kiddos is one of the highlights of my life. I feel honored in this ministry to reach young minds to help us have a better world later. I am so happy that I have the chance to work.

Even at times when I haven’t had a penny to my name, I found ways to get away with my family. I stopped grading papers, so I could throw the volleyball with my daughter. Single parents have an even harder task at finding reasons and ways to “stop and smell the roses.” Often with a single income, I want to delay outings or limit activities with my daughter. I am grateful that I teach and have several days, even months, off in the year. My daughter refuses to stop growing up so that I can catch up and get it together. Much too soon, she will be off to college and on her own. It will be too late to have waited to spend the time with her. I know she feels that I sleep too much, and I have been working on spending more time with my girl. She senses what I do. This life is truly short, and it flies by. Before you know it, we may each be at the end of our lives, longing to have lived it differently. May that not be me. May that not be you.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 19

FREE PRESCHOOL Dental Services

Free Teeth Whitening for New Patients

• Teeth Cleaning • Whitening • Cosmetic Dentistry • Porcelain Crowns • Porcelain Vaneers • Tooth-colored Fillings • Invisalign Clear Braces • Dental Implants • Extractions • Bone Grafting • Porcelain Bridges • Root Canals • Dentures • Partial Dentures

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

We Accept All PPO Dental Insurance Plans 13691 Metro Parkway, Suite 250 Fort Myers, FL 33912 Hours: Monday thru Thursday 8:30am till 4:00pm Phone: (239) 768-5900 | www.drbeno.com

Robin Dawn Dance Academy Est. 1975

AN EYE ON THE FUTURE Make an appointment today. Your future suddenly became a whole lot clearer. A child’s learning disabilities can be caused by vision related problems, even if the child has 20/20 vision. Visit EyeDocks.com to watch a video about Vision Therapy. • Comprehensive Eye Examinations • Contact Lens Fitting • Glaucoma Evaluations • Cataract Evaluation & Post-Op Care • Genetic Testing for Macular Degeneration • Visual Fields • Opto-Maps

Serving Collier, Glades, Hendry & Lee Counties | (239) 935-6100

The only choice

Help Your Child Learn

Eye Care Services

www.elcofswfl.org

Voted Cape Coral’s Best Dance Academy Come Join Our Family of Dancers

Tap • Jazz • Hip Hop • Lyrical • Ballet • Pointe Musical Theater • Acrobatics • Contortion • Circus Equipment

Insurance Accepted

The knowledgeable staff at Fort Myers Eye Associates PA is experienced in working with vision insurance providers. We will work directly with you and your vision insurer. We accept sever types of vision insurance.

8801 College Pkwy, Fort Myers (239) 437-2004 EyeDocks.com

20 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

Photo courtesy of Nocera Photographic

932 Country untry Club Blvd Blvd, Cape Coral 239 549.0827 • www.RobinDawnAcademy.com

Janis B. Meredith, a parenting coach, was a coach’s wife for 29 years and sports mom for 22 years. She lives in Alva, where she writes about raising champions on JBMThinks.com.

youth sports »

JA NIS B. MER EDIT H

THE GREAT JUGGLING ACT How to balance sports and family during the holidays

is the season for crazy busy holiday schedules, and if your child is playing sports, the plot thickens. I’ve seen this conflict of interests handled several ways by different families. Maybe you’ve chosen one of these options: » Family first. Any sports event that conflicts with a family holiday event loses out. No question. » Commitment to team first. Any sports event that conflicts with a family holiday event wins because the child has committed to the team and the team is counting on them. » We can do both. Showing up at one event and leaving early to make the other. This is done with the intention of showing commitment to both options. Do these choices resonate with you? I am not here to tell you that one of these is the correct answer. How you choose to manage your family’s schedule is entirely up to you and your family priorities. However, I do believe there are some ways to calm the busy-ness and manage the conflicts.

Have a family meeting Before things get too crazy, sit down and sync calendars. If things come up as a conflict, discuss which one should be a priority. If you and your child have different opinions, hear them out and explain your reasoning. Look for ways to compromise, maybe by letting them choose one event to go to and you choosing another. Let the coach know Once you’ve prioritized your calendar, give the coach plenty of notice if your child will not be able to attend a

game or a tournament. Explain that family is important to you and that this is one commitment you don’t want them to miss. If you do this all the time, this may fall on deaf ears, but if your child has been consistent, they should understand. Look for ways to combine family and sports Since two of my kids played basketball in high school, we were always hit with tournaments during the holidays. If they were away, we looked for ways to make it a family “vacation.” If they were home, we looked for ways to

support every child and encouraged our kids to support each other. Then, we’d strive to make up the fun that they may have thought they were missing by doing something when they were free. A lot of the stress of the family/sports conflict boils down to your attitude. If you can accept that something has to give and not worry about trying to be at everything, and if you can relax and enjoy the event that is right in front of you instead of thinking about what you had to say “no” to, your holiday season will be much more enjoyable.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 21

« kid stuff

‘IT’S LIKE

YOU ARE

dancing ON THE

’ MOON Kids are falling in love with the Rock Climbing FunWalls at Miromar Outlets. BY ANDREA STETSON

homas Festa quickly scales a rock wall and then slides down on a rope with a big smile on his face ready to tackle the next wall. It’s the fourth time in a month that the 8-year-old boy has enjoyed rock climbing at Miromar Outlets. “The first time I only got halfway,” Thomas admits. “You conquer your fears.” His mother, Kim McDermott, and her niece Mimi Michelena, 8, climb nearby. “It’s ten bucks and you can’t beat it,” Kim says. “It’s a good way for the kids to be active. We do it a lot. It’s so fun.” Mimi says her favorite part is sliding down attached to the rope. “It’s like you are standing on a cloud and jumping,” she exclaims. “It’s like you are jumping in space. It is like you are dancing on the moon.” There are 16 walls, each 26 feet high, in the rock climbing area dubbed Rock Climbing FunWalls, which opened in WINK Playland at Miromar Outlets earlier this year. Each wall has a different theme and a unique look. Supervisor Alex Cossio explains that the canyon and the race car are the easiest. The eyeballs and the purple sockets are the hardest. Meanwhile, the most

22 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

Wyatt Barnett, 8, climbs a rock wall at Miromar Outlets.

tervention portance

popular, Alex says, are the beanstalk and the volcano. The beanstalk is two walls that stand in the middle of the room. The volcano has buttons to press as you go up that make the lava light up in the mountain. When you reach the top, you press a button to make it erupt. The speed walls have a timer, so you can race a friend or race yourself for a better time. “We get mostly families,” Alex says. “Parents will come with their kids, and they will all climb together.” Dad Senech Edison didn’t want to climb during his recent visit. He was just happy to watch his son Senaj Edison, 5, conquer the rock walls. Even at his young age, Senaj was able to get halfway up some of the easier walls. “He just wanted to try it,” Senech said. Parents also like the safety aspects. Everyone who climbs is in a harness with a rope attached. They also like that it is in a shaded area with lots of big cooling fans. Wyatt Barnett, 8, tried the rock What: Rock walls for the first time recently. Climbing FunWalls After struggling a bit on some of the harder walls, he tried the Where: Miromar Outlets, 10801 beanstalk and found that much Corkscrew Road, easier to scale. Estero “I like it because you can train When: 9:30 a.m. and get strong,” Wyatt said. to 9 p.m. Monday“We were here (at Miromar Saturday, 11 a.m. to Outlets) to take my older daughter 6 p.m. Sunday shopping, and he wanted to do it,” Cost: $10 for one said his mother, Kelly Barnett. “I hour, $15 for two think it’s amazing, because it’s a hours great price. Kids are stuck inside Details: 239too much, and with all the air 948-3766 or blowing here, it’s cool in here. This miromaroutlets.com is great. I am loving it. Kids need more places like this.” For children who just want a tiny taste of rock climbing, there are smaller rock climbing walls at some local parks, such as: » Lakes Regional Park (beachfront playground) » Boca Grande Community Center » Estero Community Park » Buckingham Community Park (it has large, handshaped rocks) » Veterans Community Park Steve Cox, senior supervisor with Lee County Parks and Recreation, says Veterans Park in Lehigh Acres has the most realistic walls, but they don’t have the height or the intricacy of the walls at Miromar. “The highest rocks are probably 8 feet at the most,” Steve says. “At Veterans Park it is geared more like real rocks.” All the rock walls in the parks are free.

WE KNOW THE

O F S T A Y I N G H E A L T H Y.

If you go

Regardless of age, the key to looking and feeling younger is prevention. Over the years, our skin becomes less elastic and prone to discoloration. Exposure to UVA and UVB rays causes damage beginning in childhood but may only become evident later in life. Minimizing sun exposure at all ages is key. For a youthful complexion from nine months of age to 90 years, see us for annual full-body skin checks, routine exams and personalized skin care treatments.

It’s Florida Skinportant to celebrate health this holiday season!

OFFICES: F ORT MYERS | C APE CORAL LEHIGH ACRES | PUNTA GORDA

FloridaSkinCenter.com 239.425.6805

Hablamos ESPAÑOL1

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 23

Awesome Awaits! Holiday Events Included in Park Admission LEGOLAND.com/Florida 1 LEGOLAND Way, Winter Haven, FL 33884

24 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

teens »

COOL

WAYS TO

VOLUNTEER H Opportunities that stem from a passion or talent are far from dull. BY ANDREA STETSON

igh school students vying for Bright Futures scholarships need 100 volunteer hours, but helping others can be much more than logging time on a sheet. While many students simply sign up for various charity events, the ones who pick a passion, create their own project or use their talents to help others get a lot more than the fulfillment of required service. Scott Whittamore, a teacher at Riverdale High School and coordinator of the school’s International Baccalaureate program’s Creativity, Activity, Service projects, says his students create their own volunteer projects. “That is their own thing,” Scott ex-

plains. “It is somewhat out of the ordinary. “We have two girls this year doing a dress drive. They get girls to donate dresses. And they have a day at school where girls that need dresses will get dresses.” Trinity Doss and Stephanie Blum are the Riverdale seniors behind the project. “We decided to take on this responsibility, because there are a lot of girls at our school that cannot go to homecoming because they cannot afford a dress,” Trinity says. “And we want them to have that Cinderella moment.” Scott says other students find a volunteer project with something they are passionate about. For example, many of his students who play sports are volunteer umpires. “There is a huge need for that,” Scott says. “All of these Little Leagues and orga-

nizations have a real need for that.” Alexandra Driscoll, a Riverdale senior and softball player, is an umpire for Little League Baseball. “It is a great way to volunteer if you are interested in sports,” she says. “You never get to see it from an umpire’s point of view when you are a player, so it is a different point of view on the situation.” It’s not just sports that can lead to fun volunteer jobs. There are numerous opportunities for teens who love technology. Imagine getting your volunteer hours by using Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. That’s what teenagers can do with the JDRF, formerly called the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Kathy Cleeland, executive director of the South Gulf Coast Chapter, says teenagers help them create PowerPoint presentations, slide shows

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 25

» teens (continued)

I can’t believe she’s had

TWO KIDS! With the Mommy Makeov, you can look the way you did before children. Surgically contours and tightens the abdomen as well as lifts and shapes the breasts.

239.482.1900 • Garramone.com 12998 South Cleveland Ave • Ft Myers, FL 33907

“THE

BEST”

VOTED 5 YEARS IN A ROW! Best Plastic Surgeon Best Breast Cosmetic Surgeon

FOR OVER 10 YEARS IN A ROW!

26 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

GARR 29094 November 2018 Parent & Child Magazine.indd 1

9/7/18 2:51 PM

with music, social media posts and more. “One thing we still need is people to help us with social media posts, website design, newsletters and things like that,” Kathy says. “That is something that is a little more time-consuming and that has to be consistent. That would be a very nice fit for someone who is interested in that.” A few years ago, high school students created an educational video for the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. Then they created a multimedia project for Turtle Time, a nonprofit organization dedicated to saving loggerhead sea turtles. Teenagers who have a passion for horses can spend their volunteer hours at the Naples Therapeutic Riding Center. The nonprofit in Naples currently has 51 teenagers ages 14-18 helping guide the horses around the arena while riders with special needs sit horseback. “For teenagers they do it for their school credits, but it is also a way to meet friends and help others,” says Executive Director Missy Lamont. Those who love other animals can volunteer at the IMAG History & Science Center in Fort Myers cleaning out cages and helping with the aquarium. There are also opportunities with area animal shelters and at the Everglades Wonder Gardens. “A lot of them gravitate toward wildlife care,” says Tom Hecker, director of the Everglades Wonder Gardens. “That‘s what they really want to do. They like to work with the animals. A lot of it is cleaning the enclosures and assisting with the diet and preparation. Probably the most useful thing is creating the food bags that we sell to visitors. They measure out these bags and make hundreds at a time.” My son, Alexander Stetson, created the Read to Rabbits program seven years ago when he was a freshman at Gulf Coast High School. He had wanted to use his passion to make his own volunteer project. When he went off to college, other teens continued to volunteer for the program. Each week children at a migrant after-school center read one-onone to a bunny while the teen volunteers assist. “I like talking to all the kids, because they are funny, and I like the bunnies, too,” says Gulf Coast High School junior Lexi Moore. “I am not allowed to have a pet at home, and I wanted to do something with animals, and this is something that is so meaningful,” says Vanessa Franco, a junior at St. John Neumann Catholic High School in Naples. In October, Scott says, some of his students enjoyed volunteering at haunted houses organized by local charities. They got to dress up and scare people and earn volunteer hours by having fun. “That is a fun one,” Scott says. “You get to scare kids and get some community service at the same time.” Scott agrees that teenagers shouldn’t just sign up for things just to get hours. He recommends finding their passion or using a talent to help others. “The kids get way more out of it than just going and helping someone else out just for the hours.”

dining out »

Want a long kids’ menu? Poached offers 12 options for children. BY ANDREA STETSON

he kids’ menu at Poached is extensive and cheap, and it caters to all the kid favorites. Everything from the chocolate chip pancakes and cheesy eggs to the dino nuggets, mac and cheese, sandwiches and more are $5 including a drink. Both the Naples and Bonita Springs locations have shaded outdoor dining. The Naples restaurant has a fountain that captivates kids while they wait for their food. But they don’t wait long. The meals come quite quickly. Inside, the large dining room is decorated with fun portraits of bubble gum and dogs. I had the Irish Benedict, a grilled English muffin stacked with corned beef hash, poached eggs and hollandaise and served with juicy fruit ($10.99). My husband had the biscuits and gravy ($9.50). The staff is very accommodating. My husband’s meal came with eggs, but he doesn’t like eggs so they let him substitute bacon. My daughter, Kristyn, saw so many things on the menu that she liked that it was hard for her to decide. She finally settled on the blueberry and cream cheese French toast ($10.50). The restaurant has a varied menu that includes burgers, salads, soups, sandwiches, wraps and paninis. There is also the creative, such as the stuffed pineapple filled with honey cranberry chicken salad or the Santa Fe chicken pita. Their breakfast menu includes eggs of almost any style, French toast, pancakes, oatmeal and more. Most entrees are served with a choice of fries, pasta salad, potato salad, green salad, soup or fruit. Smaller meals have a choice of fries or fruit.

Poached has indoor and outdoor seating.

POACHED » Locations: 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 156, Naples, and 24600 S. Tamiami Trail, Unit 200, Bonita Springs » Phone: 239-593-0770 (Naples) and 239-2218256 (Bonita Springs) » Online: facebook.com/ ToastofNaples (Naples) and facebook.com/Poached545617758797485 (Bonita Springs) » Hours: 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. daily

» Price range: $2.75-$12 » Kids’ menu: The $5 menu choices include pancakes and fruit, chocolate chip pancake and fruit, scrambled eggs, cheesy eggs, French toast and fruit, brown sugar oatmeal and fruit, cheeseburger and fries, dino nuggets and fries, macaroni and cheese and fruit, turkey sandwich and fruit, ham sandwich and fruit, grilled cheese and fries. Meals include a kids’ drink.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 27

28 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

spotlight »

Statements of love “

The students in this popular school club honor veterans all year long with projects big and small. BY ECHO COPELAND

oing this project made me feel like I was making a difference in someone’s life, even though it was a small gesture. It means the world to me knowing that the people who fought for us are being honored in a unique way.” “The best part of this project is getting to meet the veteran I painted. The reaction makes me feel like I have done something for someone else.” “The best part of this club is how the veterans react. Whether they are young or old, they all react the same way: happy.”

RIGHT: Robert Doran, 12, left, and Evelyn Schossau, 11, work on their veteran portraits at the Community School of Naples. • Below: Katryna Sysoyeva gives Gabrielle Caito, 13, advice as she works on her portrait of a veteran during a painting party.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 29

« spotlight (continued)

City of Fort Myers Recreation “Bringing Our Community Together”

Emilie Gesdorf, 14, works on her veteran portrait October 23 at the Community School of Naples.

Fort Myers Skatium

• Learn to Skate Classes • Public Skating • Youth / Adult Hockey Leagues • Youth / Adult Indoor Sports

Aquatic Center

• • • •

Private Swim Lessons Two Pools Open Year Round New lower prices Heated Pools

Athletics & Outdoor Sports

• Outdoor Sports • Co-Ed Youth / Adult Soccer • Women’s Soccer • Volleyball Rental League • Coed 7v7 Soccer • Women’s 7v7 Soccer • 9+ Sand Volleyball Leagues • Softball Leagues • Field Rentals

For more information on all activities contact us at: • Fort Myers Skatium (239) 321-7509

NP-0000965591

• Aquatic Center (239) 321-7556 • Athletics & Outdoor Sports 239-321-7514

30 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

“The best part was interviewing a veteran — knowing I had the chance to honor a veteran. It made me feel warm and important.” These are the words of students from the Community School of Naples Veterans Appreciation Club, a middle school club that honors U.S. military veterans through projects big and small all year long. Their latest project — interviewing veterans and painting their portraits — is modeled after former president George W. Bush’s example in his book, “Portraits of Courage.” The club — the largest service club at the school — came about when Honor Flight called looking for students to write letters for the mail call portion of the group’s activities with the veterans, according to Jimmi Stevens, the club sponsor. The letter-writing turned into other projects with Honor Flight and eventually an organized club. The students do several projects throughout the year. They host a Veterans Day celebration with a luncheon, variety show and classroom visits. Each veteran gets a Middle School buddy to share the day. The kids also attend the “welcome home” events for Honor Flight, which flies veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit memorials dedicated to their service. In May, two of the club’s students accompanied an Honor Flight as guardians who attend to veterans’ needs during the trip. This year’s project was created in part by club advisor and middle school Spanish

teacher Jimmi Stevens and art teacher Tom Geyer. The kids are memorializing the men and women of the U.S. military through the portraits. The students, such as Olivia Lipman, Reva Patel and Jack Felzer, who were quoted previously, were all thrilled by the project. “It’s my way of saying thank you for their service, and I hope it shows how grateful I am, because I cannot express it in words,” Reva says. At Vino’s Picasso in Naples, the students paint the portraits of local veterans and interview them. There have been six sessions to date. Katryna Sysoyeva, the owner of Vino’s Picasso, plays a significant role, too. Jimmi sends Katryna, an accomplished artist, photos of the veterans in advance, and she sketches each portrait before each painting party. Then on the day of a painting party, she and her helpers walk the students through the process of painting them. On October 3, they had a special painting party on the school’s campus. This time, the portraits were of fallen soldiers. Rather than interviewing the veterans, students interviewed the mothers, called Gold Star Mothers. In all, there are eight portrait sessions planned. The students will compile them into a book to immortalize the veterans’ legacies. The club is something many in the school are proud of. Even teachers and administrators have become involved.

The Community School of Naples Veterans Appreciation Club welcomes involvement from the public. Learn more at communityschoolnaples.org or contact club advisor Jimmi Stevens at 239597-7575, ext. 110.

money »

Where’s my

money

Families need help to become financially secure in Southwest Florida’s high-cost, low-wage environment. STORY BY LEIGH TAHIROVIC

“MY GOAL AS A HUSBAND, AS A FATHER, IS TO PROVIDE FOR MY FAMILY A SECURE HOME WHERE THEY CAN GROW UP AND HELP OTHERS.” — SAM HERNANDEZ

penny saved is a penny earned. That sentiment is hard to digest for most Southwest Florida families struggling to make ends meet each month. Plagued by high housing costs while earning wages lower than the national average, area parents are left wondering where’s my money. “Most of us are living paycheck to paycheck,” says Jennifer Hagen, family and consumer sciences agent for Lee County Extension Services. “We don’t have that buffer for an emergency.” She teaches a budget clinic three times a month, offering best practices to parents, as part of the Lee County Department of Human and Veteran Services’ family selfsufficiency program. “I help (clients) develop good money management habits.”

Those habits, Jennifer says, start with tracking your spending. But don’t overthink it. Simply, write down all of your daily spending on a sheet of paper. By analyzing your spending habits, you can identify pitfalls — like that daily trip to the coffee shop or your Amazon shopping cart. “People get caught up in buying stuff,” she explains. It was a lesson she and her husband learned first-hand, pointing out a time when Jennifer would go shopping during her daily lunch breaks. “I would leave for lunch and go to Target or TJ Maxx and then I was spending $10 to $15 (a day) on lunch.” She realized that it was the “thrill of the hunt,” not the actual items that brought her enjoyment. “We stopped buying stuff … and (focus on) enhancing our quality of life.” Fort Myers couple Sam and Erika Hernandez agree that good money management starts with good spending habits. But it was a painful lesson for them to learn.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 31

« money (continued) Sam, a successful residential designer, was earning well above the average median income for Fort Myers before he was laid off in 2008. They lost their Naples Park home in foreclosure, too. “It was basic survival mode,” Sam says. “We weren’t going out. We were using credit cards to buy groceries, to pay for gas. It was necessities.” The credit card balances skyrocketed. As unemployment loomed, Sam became more determined to provide for his growing family, especially since Erika was a stay-at-home mom. Their daughter Keilah was born the year before the economic downturn that caused some 9 million Americans to lose their homes. “There came a point where we couldn’t pay it (the home) off any more,” Sam says. “It was so much financial stress.” Since losing their home, the Hernandezes have struggled with the inordinate cost of renting in Lee County. They pay $1,600 a month for a three-bedroom, two-bath townhouse near Colonial Boulevard. It is the family’s No. 1 monthly expense. They have even considered leaving the area because of it. It’s a common scenario among those Jennifer meets at the budget clinic. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median gross rent is $851 a month in the city of Fort Myers. But it is almost impossible to find a stable and safe place to live for that price. “It’s very expensive to live here in Lee County,” says Jennifer, who helps educate class attendees on homeless prevention at the clinic. So, what’s a family to do? Set priorities, she says, in your monthly budget. That’s a key aspect of her curriculum. You are taught to focus on needs versus wants. It’s about making behavior changes, she says. “Ask yourself: Can your wants wait while you meet your needs?” A budget priority for the Hernandez family, which now

includes 6-year-old Ethan, is eating a diet of 80 percent organic foods. Because they couldn’t afford health insurance, Sam and Erika agreed to eat healthy as an effort to counterbalance their lack of health care. “We needed to change our eating habits, so we researched the healthiest foods and then where to buy it for the best price,” Sam says. Like most families, the Hernandez shopping list includes staples like butter, produce and even treats for the kids, like Pirate’s Booty puffs. But Erika divides her shopping list by supermarket, identifying the brand name and amount of each item the family buys. “We have a very tight food budget week-to-week,” she says. Those cost-saving efforts used to include Excel spreadsheets of price comparisons, but as she gained more control over the family’s food expense, she has needed those tools less and less. But getting to that place financially took years of sacrifice. While they never had to file bankruptcy, the Hernandezes depleted their retirement savings and spent money earmarked for college to survive until Sam found employment. He even worked at a chocolate factory to support the family, and Erika worked part-time as a bookkeeper from home. They gained real financial freedom after discovering Dave Ramsey, a financial guru who has authored numerous New York Times bestsellers. Because they couldn’t afford the courses or DVDs, they borrowed books from the library and a friend loaned them the program CDs. “We learned ways to be more financially secure,” Sam explains. “We searched out what we needed to do differently.” Most conversations about money occur after there’s a financial problem, Jennifer says. And emotions impact spending.

Build a spending plan

The first step to financial freedom is learning how to manage your money. To master the skill of money control, families must be able to pay monthly household expenses, save for retirement and still have money left to buy the things they want and need. This six-step plan is a great place for families without a budget to begin a conversation about finances. 1. Identify your goals. When you write down your financial goals, it will help establish priorities to best determine how much money you need and the time frame required to save it.

paper, with sections for each day, and tally up the expenditures after a week. After a month, add in all of your reoccurring monthly expenses including automatic withdraws.

2. Track where the money goes. Record your daily spending on a piece of

3. Determine your net income. By identifying the amount of money you earn

32 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

each month, you gain more control over how you spend your money. 4. Identify fixed and flexible expenses. The two types of major expenses are fixed and flexible. As you become better at controlling your flexible expenditures, you will have an easier time

achieving your financial goals. 5. Live within your means. Are you living on what you make each month? If you continue to overspend, it will become increasingly more difficult to pay off debts that you are accruing.

CLEARLY THE RIGHT CHOICE

“STAY AWAY FROM THINGS THAT WILL BURN UP YOUR MONEY, LIKE POP CULTURE. I’M NOT INTO SPORTS OR

SINCE 1971

David C. Brown, MD, FACS World Renowned Cataract Surgeon Founder & Medical Director

Call for an Appointment!

888.EYE.APPT

OR DIAL **EYE ON YOUR MOBILE PHONE

www.ECOF.com

HAVE HOBBIES THAT COST ME MONEY.”

— SAM HERNANDEZ

Fall into a New Smile! Board Certified Orthodontist Braces & Invisalign® PMS CMYK RGB

“We make decisions based on what we can afford, because we are trying to live within our means,” she says of her family’s financial approach. But even she isn’t perfect, pointing out that it’s hard “to practice what I preach.” Jennifer also tosses in a little old-school home-economics know-how in the course. She provides simple ways to reduce household expenses, such as using less electricity and water as well as reducing food expenses. “To balance your budget, you have to either decrease spending or increase your income,” she says. That lesson took time for Sam Hernandez, who once upon a time was adamant about getting a $20 haircut every two weeks. But Erika told him to cut it himself. That expense is no longer in their budget. Still today, unforeseen emergencies create financial tension — albeit in a new, different way for the family. Recently, they received a water bill that was three times higher than the typical amount owed. When Erika called to inquire about the dramatic increase, she learned that the house’s water meter wasn’t reading properly and needed replaced. The increase in charges were from usage not billed. “We had to set up a payment plan … we don’t just shell out money when they ask for it. We make sure they aren’t taking advantage,” Sam says. They also recently incurred some medical debt, another unforeseen emergency, when Erika battled renal cell carcinoma, a type of kidney cancer. Now that her treatments are finished and she’s feeling better, Erika found a new part-time bookkeeping job to pay off those bills.

476

5497

152

7529

Affordable payment plans Most insurances accepted Call to schedule your complimentary consultation! 239-260-2100 |

2017

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

Three Locations To Serve You! BONITA SPRINGS

9510 Bonita Beach Rd. Ste. 101

239 333.2990

CAPE CORAL

PORT CHARLOTTE

1508 S.E. 12th Terrace

3872 Tamiami Trail, Unit D&E

239 322.5222

941 391.8090

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

Fun and Interactive Environment

We Love Kids, Kids Love Us!

www.swfl-pediatricdentistry.com Most Insurance Accepted Se Habla Español

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 33

« money (continued)

• Board Certified • Braces with Damon System • In-Office Sedation: Nitrous, Oral and IV • Hospital Dentistry • No Interest Financing

• New & Transfer Patients Welcome • Digital X-Rays • Teeth Whitening • Se Habla Español

Positive, Fun & Friendly Environment Overhead TVs • Video Games Treasure Chest • Toys

7117 Congdon Road, Suite 100 | Ft. Myers, FL 33908 (239) 418-1444 www.wheresmilesbegin.com

34 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

“Every few weeks, we’ll look at the budget and see what we need to do to prepare financially,” Sam says. “The priority is family.” The family does have a fun budget, too. Once a year, they purchase a membership to an attraction like the Calusa Nature Center or the Conservancy of Southwest Florida. This year, they have a membership to the Edison & Ford Winter Estates, and that allows them entry into other reciprocating partners throughout the U.S. “Even though we don’t take big week-long vacations, we can go to the garden in St. Petersburg and just pay for gas and food,” Erika says. They even budget money to eat out occasionally. TypiThe University of cally, they frequent fast-food Florida IFAS Extension restaurants where they can office offers help to Lee County residents eat for less than $30. who need basic money “There’s going to be a management. Visit edis. time when we can splurge, ifas.ufl.edu/he155 to but that’s not right now. read UF/IFAS publications These sacrifices aren’t reon topics related to family finances. ally sacrifices,” Sam adds. “They’re preferences. We What: Learn how to manage your financial hold our urges and desires so future that we can raise our kids.” Mom and Dad also talk to When: 3 p.m. November 6; 5 p.m. November 14; Keilah and Ethan about debt 3 p.m. November 20; 3 and the value of saving. p.m. December 4; 5 p.m. “We’re trying to prepare December 12, and 3 them to make the right decip.m. December 18 sions about their finances,” Where: Lee County Sam says. That may mean Department of Human not attending college, and and Veteran Services, 2440 Thompson St., Fort they’re OK with that. “ColMyers lege is so outrageously expensive, and kids are coming To register: lcdhvs. ticketleap.com/budgetout of school so in debt … clinic We want them (Keilah and Ethan) to gain life skills and avoid debt.” The Hernandezes live on about $70,000 a year, comprised of mostly earnings from Sam. They love telling other families about how they too can gain financial freedom — with discipline. “We have no car loans,” Sam says, “no school debt, no real credit card debt, and that’s one of the things that’s helped us survive in Southwest Florida.”

Budget clinic

cover story »

PHOTO BY AMANDA INSCORE

Layla Campbell, 5, of Cape Coral, tasted the chicken teriyaki bowl from the kids’ menu — and she liked it.

L’il

FOODIES Kids’ menus venture beyond chicken nuggets in Southwest Florida. BY SHELBY REYNOLDS

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 35

« cover story (continued) An almond butter, banana and apple sandwich on the kids’ menu at True Food Kitchen in North Naples.

Sometimes those dishes are necessary to appease the tiniest and most discriminating eaters among us, but a few restaurants in Southwest Florida offer more options for families who are looking to introduce their children to healthier and more diverse food at any early age. Because even the youngsters can be little foodies. As an executive chef and a parent to a 6-year-old boy, Amy Visco Schmicker says it was important to provide healthful dining choices for children at her Sanibel Island restaurants. “I wanted to have menu items that

36 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

were still familiar to kids, but put a healthy twist on them,” says Amy, the chef at Sanibel Fresh and Sunset Grill. For example, the Sanibel Fresh breakfast menu includes scrambled eggs with toast, fruit and a choice of ham and bacon. “What they don’t know is we’re using all-natural, cage-free eggs,” Amy says. “And nitrate-free, all-natural ham and bacon.” The chicken in the kids’ quesadillas is all-natural, too, and brined and smoked in-house. The Wagyu beef hot dogs, which are playfully sliced to look like an octopus, are from grass-fed cattle

in Clewiston. “It makes a difference when you’re using the fresh products,” she says. “It’s definitely expensive, but it’s worth it. Just to have the children have a different option.” Amy says she introduced her son, Thomas, to a variety of foods when he was young. She made him sugar-free raspberry sorbet, and as a child his favorite cheese was (quite unusually) brie. Now it’s blue cheese. “My mom used to joke around that he would get three-course meals,” Amy says. The family also used to make fre-

PHOTO SPECIAL TO SW FL PARENT & CHILD

ids’ menus have always offered the same tired hot dogs, the same macaroni and cheese, the same blah and boring chicken fingers.

PHOTO BY AMANDA INSCORE

quent trips to a farmers market, where Thomas learned to identify fruits and vegetables. “He knows how food is grown and that it’s not manufactured,” she says. “I think that’s very important.” Children can get a hands-on food experience at Il Primo Pizza & Wings, which allows kids to build their own mini pizza each Wednesday evening at all six of its Southwest Florida locations. For $5, the little pizza-makers get a kit that includes sauce, pepperoni, shredded mozzarella cheese and an 8-inch round of dough, which is made from scratch each morning. Extra toppings cost 90 cents, and the kits also include a cookie and fountain drink. “They create it however they want it in the dining room, and when they’re done they write their name on it, they give it back

to us and we put it in our ovens and cook it,” says Mino Campobasso, vice president of Il Primo Pizza & Wings. “Some of them can actually make a pretty good pizza,” he says, laughing. The build-your-own pizza nights give kids a chance to get creative, Mino says. And it also offers a space where families with little ones can go out to eat. “I think one of the things we kept hearing back in the early 2000s was that there wasn’t a lot of things kids can do,” he says of the Naples area. “There weren’t a lot of restaurants for kids. “Let them have some fun and show them that they don’t have to be dressed up and sit still.” There are Il Primo locations in Cape Coral, Golden Gate, Lehigh Acres, Fort Myers and two in North Naples. Find them online at ilprimopizza.com.

Where kids

eat free

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 For locations, visit applebees.com • Kids’ menu meals for ages 12 and younger are $1.99 on Sundays. May vary by location.

BEEF ’O’ BRADY’S For locations, visit beefobradys.com. • At most locations, kids 12 and younger eat free 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday nights per purchase of an adult meal. Times and dates can vary by location

BLU SUSHI 13451 McGregor Blvd., south Fort Myers; 2262 First St., Downtown Fort Myers; 239-489-1500; blusushi.com • Kids 12 and younger eat for half price from the kids’ menu on Sundays with the purchase of an adult meal.

BRAHMA SUSHI LOUNGE 10045 Gulf Center Drive, Fort Myers; 239-334-2583; brahmasushi.com • On Sundays, one free kids’ meal per adult entrée purchased.

BUBBA’S ROADHOUSE & SALOON

Pancakes with bananas and strawberrys are on the kids menu at Sanibel Fresh.

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.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 37

« cover story (continued)

If parents are looking for more options, USS Nemo in Naples has perhaps the most diverse kids’ menu: » Mini woks of chicken or beef broccolini, served with rice and steamed green beans. » Shrimp tempura with a sweet and sour sauce. » Kid-friendly fish tacos filled with crunchy grouper. Even USS Nemo’s signature broiled sea bass has a place on the kids’ menu. “It looks like a grownup plate, just smaller,” says Stephane Plante, who’s been general manager at the restaurant for 18 years. “We wanted to...offer them something special.” Stephane says he introduced his own three sons to sophisticated tastes at a young age. It wasn’t unusual for them to eat steak, fried oysters, foie gras or scallops. At home, his sons sometimes help in the kitchen. Diners, including young children, are becoming more interested in food, he says. He thinks it has something to do with cooking show competitions on the Food Network. Even the kids’ menu at USS Nemo comes as its own separate book. “Young sailor menu” is printed on the front above a bronze-y red seahorse. There are salmon and crab cake burgers on the menu. Grilled grouper, steamed shrimp and mini coconut cream pie for dessert. The fish fingers, which are a popular item among the restaurant’s youngest diners, are freshcut pieces of snapper that are fried to order. “All of those little details make it much more complicated for us to operate,” Stephane says, “but it shows in the plate, and we know that our customers appreciate that.” The kids’ menu at True Food Kitchen is also made up of more fresh and healthy food options based on the dietary recommendations of celebrity doctor Andrew Weil. Richard Collins is executive chef at the North Naples location at Waterside Shops.

38 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

The trick, he says, is to make it more of a lifestyle choice. “I think it’s super important to think of something as the same rather than treat it as something different. Telling a kid it’s good for them usually doesn’t work,” Richard says, laughing. True Food Kitchen offers a healthy take on a classic PB&J, but with almond butter, banana and apple slices on seeded grain bread. The chicken teriyaki bowl on the kids’ menu is much like the one on the grown-up menu, but missing a few grown-up ingredients (mushroom, avocado and bok choy — yucky). The reality is that children aren’t nec-

essarily paying customers at restaurants, but they are accompanied by paying adults, so treating kids as valued diners can be just as important. “If you stricken guests that have a family to just ordering out or staying in and cooking, you’re pushing them away instead of inviting them,” Richard says. “The goal is get everybody to try what we’re doing.” And food-loving children grow up to be food-loving adults. “We like to see the flame of culinary discoveries in a young face,” Stephane says. “People are now foodies more than ever, so of course that will trickle to the kids.”

» Where kids eat free continued CHILI’S For locations, visit chilis.com. • Chili’s occasionally offers a free kids’ meal with the purchase of regular entrée, typically through the restaurant’s e-club or to loyalty members. Guests can sign up at chilis.com/rewards.

D’AMICO & SONS PHOTOS BY AMANDA INSCORE

Neapolitan Way, 4691 Ninth St. N., Naples; 239-430-0955; damicoandsons.com • Kids 10 and younger eat free on Sundays with purchase of adult meal.

DENNY’S For locations, visit dennys.com • Kids 10 and younger eat free from the kids’ menu 4 to 10 p.m. Tuesdays with the purchase of an adult entrée at participating locations. Limit two kids’ meals per adult entrée purchase.

FIREHOUSE SUBS The chicken teriyaki bowl at True Food Kitchen in North Naples.

7091 College Parkway, south Fort Myers; 239-334-7827. For other locations, visit 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, 239-5139900; 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, 239-949-1999; 1027 E. Cape Coral Parkway, Cape Coral, 239-945-7755; 4329 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers, 239-939-5247; 866-639-3287; iguanamia.com • Kids 10 and younger eat for half price (includes entrée, choice of beverage and a dessert) on Sundays with purchase of adult meal (limit two half price meals). Ages 1114 receive a free beverage and dessert when ordering off the regular menu. All ages eat free on birthdays (up to $18 value; ID required).

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 39

« cover story (continued)

Layla Campbell at True Food Kitchen

40 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

» Where kids eat free continued

1save WAYS TO

money WHEN DINING OUT WITH KIDS

PHOTO BY AMANDA INSCORE

STORY BY ANN O’PHELAN ating out is big business. Americans spent more than $54 billion on dining out in 2016 alone, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. And according to the National Restaurant Association, 90 percent of Americans enjoy going to restaurants. Face it. We all love to eat out. It’s a great way to try new foods, or your favorite dishes, and what’s even better is you don’t have to worry about prepping, cooking and cleaning up. However, when it comes to getting the bill, well, sometimes that’s when the worries set in. Parents are looking to squeeze their dollars and pinch their pennies, and while dining out is sort of a splurge, there are a lot of great ways to still save.

LOZANO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 405 E. New Market Road, Immokalee; 239-658-9255; lozanosmexican.com • Kids 12 and younger eat from the kids’ menu for $1.99 after 3 p.m. Wednesdays with the purchase of adult meal. Dine in only.

MILLER’S ALE HOUSE 4400 Kernel Circle, Fort Myers; 239-9314160; Gulf Coast Town Center, 10065 Gulf Center Drive, Fort Myers; 239-4619334; 6320 Hollywood Blvd., Naples; 239-591-0125; millersalehouse.com • One free kids’ meal per adult entrée purchase on Tuesdays.

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. Day of the week may vary by location.

MONA LISA ITALIAN RESTAURANT 7091 College Parkway, south Fort Myers; 239-939-5344; monalisafortmyers.com • One free kids’ meal for ages 12 and younger with purchase of adult entrée on Wednesdays.

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 CRAB SHACK For locations, visit pincherscrabshack. com • Kids younger than 12 get one free kids’ menu entrée per adult entrée ordered (minimum purchase of $13.99). 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.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 41

« cover story (continued)

Clip those coupons

Money-saving coupons come in the mail, in newspapers and sometimes they’re on the restaurant’s website or Facebook page. You can also find deals that request you first “Like” the restaurant on Facebook or subscribe to their e-mail newsletter. You can also search for coupons on sites such as Valpak — where you can find printable coupons and coupon codes. Valpak also has an app that allows you to display the coupon on your phone when you go to pay. Find it at valpak.com.

Watch for daily specials There are many great moneysaving specials out there, such as kids-eat-free, two-for-one, birthday deals and daily specials. For example, Bubba’s Roadhouse & Saloon in Cape Coral offers specials every day. On Mondays, kids eat free when they order off the kids’ menu. On Sundays, there’s an after-church special from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. when meals start at $6.99 (bubbasroadhouse.net). On Matlacha, Miceli’s Restaurant offers free birthday meals, week-day specials and Pizza Mondays (micelis-italian.com). Always check restrictions, such as time frames, say 4 to 6 p.m. only, and age groups for ordering children’s menu items, such as 10 and younger.

42 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

Don’t leave food on the table Many times when we eat out, the portions are more than we can polish off. As you know, sometimes the kids just pick at their food. Take leftovers home (many restaurant foods will warm up nicely in an oven or toaster oven as opposed to a microwave). Speaking of eating at home, snack a bit beforehand and you won’t be tempted to order an appetizer or dessert.

Check out the good book

The Entertainment Book is often sold by schools and sports teams to drum up money; however, they can easily pay for themselves, and then some, when you use the coupons inside. You can also get their app and find and redeem coupons on your phone. Remember, it’s only a deal if these are places you would frequent. Watch the fine print, as all coupons differ.

Maximize rewards

You might already have a credit card that offers reward points that are redeemable for restaurant gift cards. The more you spend on your charge card, the more points you gain. Some cards work toward a certain type of point, such as the Disney Premier Visa card (disneyrewards.com) from Chase. However, the idea is to save money, so keep that in mind with any charge card. Some restaurants offer guests a chance to become a member through their own membership cards that are tallied or punched when you make a purchase. For example, Chili’s rewards (chilis. com/register) accumulate toward a free order of chips and salsa or a non-alcoholic drink. MyPanera also tallies rewards toward savings on food (panerabread.com).

Order food to go Ordering to-go makes it less tempting to order too much. Plus, you save some on tipping. However, you should still tip for take-out — 10 percent is typical. Especially tip if you have a large order, complicated order or use curbside service.

Early bird gets the deal Many restaurants offer early bird specials. And if you opt for lunch over dinner, the menu is usually less expensive, especially the specials. One added benefit to eating earlier is that it’s when more families go out to eat, which can be a stress-saver, as well. Other families at nearby tables “get” the noise and confusion that might come from your table.

» Where kids eat free continued RUBY TUESDAY For locations, visit rubytuesday.com • After 5 p.m. on Tuesdays, one free kids’ entrée with one adult entrée purchased. Participation varies by location.

Follow the three B’s

Buffets, brunches and breakfast can give you more for your money. Buffets are great for families with teens who appear to be bottomless pits, but for the picky eater, ounce for ounce, they might not be such a great deal. Brunch is like two meals in one. Bayfront Bistro on Fort Myers Beach offers a weekend brunch (and great views) from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday (bayfrontbistro.com). Breakfast and lunch options are often much less expensive than dinner entrees, so time of day can save you significantly.

Tap new media

You can find local restaurant specials at Groupon.com that might not be offered anywhere else. You can search for deals, discounted meals and deals of the day. And of course, there’s an app for that (groupon.com). Livingsocial.com is another place to check for discounts and deals at your favorite restaurants. The app allows for a search — perfect when on the road. Your local newspaper (news-press.com and naplesnews.com) also offers deals to subscribers, and monthly digital subscriptions are typically the most affordable. Also, check out Yelp.com to see if you can find a deal at your favorite restaurant. Look for a small green price tag next to the name of the restaurant or business. Some deals are for a certain dollar amount off or a percentage of the bill, while others offer freebies, such as appetizers. The added advantage is you can check out the reviews while you’re there. Always read the fine print, check for limitations and other restrictions.

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.

THE SPECKLED EGG CAFÉ 13391 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers; 239-985-3013; speckledeggcafe. com • Kids 9 and younger eat free on Tuesdays with the purchase of an adult meal. Includes small milk (plain or chocolate) or fountain drink.

STEAK ‘N SHAKE For locations, 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; 239-939-7211; 814 S.W. Pine Island Road, Cape Coral; 239-573-7877; 15215 Collier Blvd., Naples; 239352-4233; stevietomato.com • On Wednesdays, Kids 12 and younger eat free with adult meal purchase. One meal per adult entrée. A magician entertains 6-8 p.m. Details may vary by store.

TEXAS ROADHOUSE

Watch what you order

Only order what you think you will eat. You can always place another order for an extra side or appetizer later, if needed. You can also save by ordering appetizers as meals and splitting entrees or desserts (or skip dessert altogether). Water works fine as a beverage and enjoy adult beverages only when you get back home. Four sodas alone can easily cost $10 at a restaurant.

8021 Dani Drive, south Fort Myers; 239-561-7427; 6815 Collier Blvd., Naples; 239-417-1111; texasroadhouse.com • The Fort Myers location offers junior kids’ meals for $1.99 after 4-10 p.m. on Tuesdays.

Want to add your restaurant to the list?

Email us at editor@ swflparentchild.com.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 43

« safety corner

GETTY IMAGESA

SA LLY K R EUSCHER

Swings, slides and safety

ach year, more than 270,000 kids are treated in emergency rooms for injuries that occur on the playground. While most of the injuries from playgrounds are due to falls (75 percent), most fatalities are caused by strangulation. Even nonfatal injuries from playground falls can be serious. Almost half of playground-related injuries are severe, including fractures, internal injuries, concussions and dislocations. Lack of or improper supervision is associated with about 45 percent of playground-related injuries. Play-

4 tips to reduce injuries on the playground

grounds are a great way for kids to get exercise and explore, and with active supervision and some basic safety tips, every day at the playground can be a walk in the park. Safe Kids Southwest Florida reminds parents and caregivers of the following four playground safety tips. 1. Actively supervise children on playgrounds. It won’t be hard —

they’ll probably be calling for you to watch them climb, jump and swing. 2. Take your kids to playgrounds with shock-absorbing surfaces such as rubber, synthetic

turf, sand, pea gravel, wood chips or mulch. If your child falls, the land-

Sally Kreuscher is the Child Advocacy Program coordinator and Safe Kids coordinator for Golisano Children's Hospital of Southwest Florida.

44 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

ing will be more cushioned than on asphalt, concrete, grass or dirt. 3. Dress appropriately for the playground. Remove necklaces,

purses, scarves or clothing with drawstrings that can get caught on equipment and pose a strangulation hazard. Even helmets can be dangerous on a playground, so save those for bikes. 4. Teach children that pushing, shoving or crowding while on the playground can be dangerous.

Encourage the older kids to look out for the younger ones. Little kids play differently than big kids. It is important to have a separate play area for children younger than 5.

Safe Kids is a nonprofit coalition of agencies and organizations dedicated to eliminating preventable childhood injuries. Visit safekidsswfl.org.

family album »

Clips for cancer » Dozens

of doctors, administrators and other staff at the Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida had their heads shaved by pediatric cancer patients on September 28 during the Clips for Cancer event. Organizers hope the event raises awareness and drives philantropic support for children with cancer through Barbara’s Friends — Golisano Children’s Hospital Cancer Fund.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 45

Everything’s beachy » Megan MacPherson and her daughter enjoy a day at the beach. This image was taken this summer, before the red tide issues, and now Megan says they’re happy they can return to a clean beach. Photo by dad Caleb MacPherson

46 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

family album »

Talent for tacos »The Oasis

High School Culinary Arts four-person A-Team, of Cape Coral, came out victorious at the first Lee County Cook-Off Competition among area schools’ culinary arts programs. The A-Team is Alondra Rodriguez, Anna Hunter, Adam Gropp and Aaron Waters. Their culinary arts teacher, center in teal, is Erin Casale. Photo special to SW FL Parent & Child

First and fabulous »

Students from GardenHaus Academy in Fort Myers are the first preschoolers to participate in the Olympic Taekwondo competition. Clockwise from top left: • Quena Rackebrandt and Charles Culliton. • James Spencer. • Quena Rackebrandt sparring. • Ethan Cross with Coach Ashley Martin. Ethan earned a medal from Hero Fight League. Photos special to SWFL Parent & Child

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 47

» family album

Friendly to families »

Spicy meatball »

Landon, 8, and baby sister Gabriella, 6 months, of Naples, pose for a Halloween picture. Now that’s a spicy meatball, says mom, quoting the 1960s commercial. Photo by mom Amber Alvarez.

Collier Child Care Resources announced the winners of its annual Family Friendly Business Awards in October. Top, Naples Mayor Bill Barnett and CCCR Executive Director Niccole Howard with Avery, Kate and Mazlyn Peterson representing Family First Legal Group. Center, the mayor and Niccole with the Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce. At left, at center is Tess Magaddine, Employer of the Year Runner-up. Find out who won at swflparentchild. com. Photos special to SW FL Parent & Child

Send Us Your Snapshots

The other Naples »

Community School of Naples’ girls varsity volleyball team recently returned from a six-day trip to Italy where they had been invited to play against two teams, Frascati in Rome and Campania Regional Selection in Naples (Italy that is). Photo courtesy of Community School of Naples 48 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

Send your images with a brief description and names of the people in them to editor@ swflparentchild.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF MACY’S INC.

travel »

The Elf on the Shelf comes just before Santa in Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

New York FOR THE HOLIDAYS T

Create — or relive — lasting memories of the season in the Big Apple. STORY BY JENNIFER THOMAS

ravel stirs the senses, and certain smells, sights and sounds can easily recall a favorite vacation memory. One vividly iconic destination, especially during the holidays, is New York City. There is something Norman Rockwellesque about spending the

winter months in NYC and being dazzled by the sights and sounds of the city and traditional experiences, such as ice skating on Rockefeller Plaza, viewing the gigantic Christmas tree lighting and visiting (or, if you’re fortunate enough, staying at) The Plaza. And who can ever forget the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 49

PHOTO COURTESY OF MSG

» travel (continued)

The Rockettes perform their Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall.

Put these experiences together and that is a recipe for a grand New York holiday. I can still recall my first trip to the Big Apple, complete with a visit to the Statue of Liberty, dinner at Carmine’s and a Broadway show (“The Fantasticks”). When we first took our now 13-year-old daughter, Kylie, to New York, it was for a cruise ship sailing on the Queen Mary 2, and she was 3-yearsold, so we didn’t do much sightseeing. However, when she returned at 10 years old, my husband and I jam packed her itinerary with numerous classics, including eating a slice at a New York pizza joint, frolicking in Central Park, visiting Lady Liberty and seeing a Broadway show (“Wicked”). I’m not the only one. Melisa Tropeano, Naples mom of 13-year-old twins Venezia and Rocco, loves visiting in the winter, too. “The City is truly filled with the spirit of joy everywhere you turn,” she

50 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

says. “Whether it’s decorations in the windows or just people randomly singing on the church steps or in front of buildings, you can’t escape the happiness and joy all around you. And if you have gone every year, you always want to return. Whether it’s with a loved one or your family or friends, because once you experience that feeling, you want everyone to experience the same thing. There’s just nothing like it.” If you’ve been considering a trip to New York, consider creating new holiday traditions by visiting the classic scenes that often come to mind when thinking of the city and the holidays. Let’s start with Thanksgiving Day and the 92nd annual Macy’s Day Parade. Melisa has experienced this memorable parade two ways. “Once was inside a building looking out the window and looking at the floats. My children were about 4, and it was amazing because at the level that we were, the floats just seemed like you

could just reach out the window and touch it,” she explains. “The second time the kids were older, and we were on the street to view, and for me it was amazing. Just streets filled with happy people and looking up in true amazement at the parade and just being a part of it.” Of course, the parade’s conclusion with Santa’s arrival is highly anticipated, but there are other floats and balloons to look forward to. According to parade spokesperson Christine Olver Nealon, the longest balloon is the Red Mighty Morphin Power Ranger at 77 feet long, the tallest balloon is Olaf from Disney’s “Frozen” at 60 feet tall, and the widest balloon is Jett by Super Wings at 39 feet wide. Two new attractions to the parade have been announced for this year: Go Bowling, which has an unusual collection of balloonicles and specially created vehicles to depict the game of bowling, and a larger-than-life Splashing

Safari Adventure by Kalahari Resorts and Conventions. Both join the historic lineup of the Macy’s Parade to delight more than 3.5 million spectators lining the parade route and more than 50 million viewers nationwide on Thursday, November 22. Melisa’s favorite part happens before the fanfare on Thanksgiving Day. “The night before, you can go into the city and see the floats all lined up, and they are semi-inflated and with the netting over them, so they don’t fly away, but you can walk around,” she says. “I believe it’s the Museum of Natural History where you walk over to and you can literally be a foot away from the balloons, and that is such an amazing experience, too.” Growing up in New Jersey, Melisa has many parade memories. “Living in Hoboken, New Jersey, a few of the floats were actually housed there, and when I was younger I remember them at probably 2 in the morning shutting down the Lincoln Tunnel and bringing those floats over from Hoboken into the city for the parade,” she says. “These amazing behind-the-scenes experiences that not everybody knows about, but once you experience that, you definitely want to pass it down to your children and to share with other family and friends.” For those who can’t be there in person, the parade airs nationwide on NBC, 9 a.m. to noon Thursday, November 22. Another classic New York holiday

memory is seeing the Rockettes perform at Radio City Music Hall. The Radio City Rockettes have been a part of the fabric of New York City as a legendary dance company for some 90 years. But even this classic production has something new to reveal this year. The 2018 production of the Christmas Spectacular starring the Radio City Rockettes, which runs November 9 through January 1, will be technologically transformed with the addition of a new finale scene and redesigned elements. The finale includes 100 drones that take flight to create a holiday light show and new digital projections from Obscura Digital. Other nostalgic must-do’s while in New York for the holidays include the light display at Saks Fifth Avenue and the Rockefeller Christmas tree. “It was as amazing as you would expect. So many people, but just so much joy,” Melisa says of the tree lighting. “And of course, an eruption of cheers when the lights go on. I got chills, but not because of the weather, just the excitement of the holidays.” There is one last destination in NYC that remains in the hearts of many as a true classic city icon, as it sits on the edge of Central Park and has been featured in countless movies, including our family favorite, “Home Alone 2”: The Plaza. “The Plaza has been a staple in pop culture since its inception,” says hotel spokesperson Ariana Swerdlin. “The fan favorite holiday movie, ‘Home Alone 2:

Santa greets guests at The Plaza.

Lost in New York,’ was about Kevin’s journey at The Plaza during his time exploring New York City. This has remained a fantasy for fans young and old.” Another cultural celebrity at The Plaza for kids is Eloise (as in Disney’s “Eloise at the Plaza”). There, guests can relish in all things Eloise, including a shopping spree in the Eloise Shop, Eloise Afternoon Tea and watching the movie in the hotel room while enjoying milk and cookies. However, according to Ariana, no fan of Eloise should miss an opportunity to stay in the Eloise Suite. “With outrageous and fun décor by celebrated designer Betsey Johnson, the suite is resplendent with an Eloiseapproved palette of pink and black and includes a king-size bed with custom Eloise-themed bedding,” Ariana says. “The suite includes Eloise books, dolls and Eloise’s name in big neon lights affixed to the wall.” For the holidays, The Plaza’s proximity to festive seasonal happenings is another reason this hotel has such a holiday connection for travelers. Starting with Thanksgiving, The Plaza offers a holiday package where guests can celebrate a quintessential New York Thanksgiving with two iconic institutions. “Begin your day of decadence with breakfast in The Palm Court before embracing the parade park side,” Ariana says. “With your comfort top of mind, a Plaza blanket and thermos of hot chocolate is prepared for your departure to keep you toasty during the day away. Located conveniently down the street, The Plaza has reserved two seats at the Columbus Circle bleachers — the perfect location to take in the sights and scenes of the world’s largest parade.” Guests can then enjoy Thanksgiving dinner in The Palm Court, as a Traditional Grand Feast will be served, and the buffet will include a variety of classic Thanksgiving fare. “There is absolutely nothing like NYC during the holidays,” Melisa says. “Best in the world.”

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 51

« around town

Take me out to the fair

The Paddle Battle is on

The Fair at Fenway South hits a homerun with fun-seekers at JetBlue Park for two weekends, November 9-11 and November 15-18. The Pirates of the Caribbean Show returns, plus there’s an all-new Horses, Horses, Horses! Show, racing pigs, illusionist Lance Gifford, a Las Vegas hypnotist, farm animals, demonstrations, live entertainment, carnival rides and games, and fair food. Admission is $8, but there are lots of ways to pay less, like on November 15 admission is $1, or the buy-one-get-one free coupon on the fair’s website. There are also family packages, and ride bracelets can be purchased in advance. Get details at fairatfenway.com.

Do you have what it takes to win the Paddle Battle? The College of Life Foundation holds paddle races like this to raise money to send children growing up in poverty to summer camp at Koreshan State Park in Estero. It’s sort of like a 5K fundraiser for runners, only this is for paddlers. Participants sign up for a 3-mile or 6-mile race. In this case, the Paddle Battle is Saturday, November 17 on Lake Babcock. Paddlers of all skills are welcome, though there is no children’s category. There will be fun onshore for the kids. In addition to cheering on your favorite paddler, you can buy ice cream at Square Scoops or enjoy free activities like the kids’ splash pad, face painting and popcorn. A DJ kicks off the race at 10 a.m. Registration begins at 8 a.m. Awards at 1 p.m. Admission is free for spectators, $35 for racers. Register at paddleguru.com/races/babcockranchpaddlebattle. Get information at collegeoflifefoundation.com.

Festival for vegetables

Whether you’re vegan or just want to get more veggies in your diet, the Vegan Festival & Competition is a fun way to taste some vegan foods. There will be a variety of tastings, music, free kids crafts and raffle prizes, including an opportunity to see Pink in concert. The event is 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, November 18 at Venue Naples, 13240 Tamiami Trail N., Naples. Hosted by the Literacy Council of Gulf Coast and sponsored by the SWFL Veg Fest. Tickets are $5 in advance, $6 at the door, free for children younger than 10. Get details at literacygulfcoast.org/events.

We’re grateful for a lot of things — our families, cooler weather, a day dedicated to eating and giving thanks — but we’re also more than a little excited to see the holiday celebrations starting. Fishermen’s Village in Punta Gorda turns on its million lights during its annual Festival of Lights on Saturday, November 17. The Festival of Trees at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center in Fort Myers begins Tuesday, November 27. And Santa is arriving at shopping plazas and malls throughout the region for photo ops galore — November 10 at Bass Pro Shops and November 23 at Miromar Outlets, for example. This is just the beginning. Find more events in our calendar pages and on our new website at swflparentchild.com.

52 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

FILE PHOTO

Holiday fun starts now

calendar »

World marathon recordholder to speak in Naples Becca Pizzi is the first American woman to complete the World Marathon Challenge, a series of seven marathons on seven continents in seven consecutive days. She holds the current record. And she’s coming to Naples to inspire others. Wellfit Girls, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering teen girls, is hosting the speaking event 6-9 p.m. Monday, November 12 at Venue Naples, 13240 Tamiami Trail N., Naples, as a fundraiser for the group. Some of the girls who went through the Wellfit program will attend. Tickets are $150 and include a cocktail hour and a meetand-greet with Becca. Get details at wellfitgirls.org.

Peek-A-Boo

SNEAK PREVIEW 3D/4D SNEAK PREVIEW4D Ultrasound Ultra Sound Certified Sonographers R.D.M.S. certified sonographer Evening and weekend Evening and weekend appointments available appointments available Friends and family welcome Friends and family welcome

239.274.7743 | 9021 Park Royal Drive, Fort Myers |

ppcswﬂ.com

PRESCHOOL & VPK

Saturday, Nov. 3 Harvest Fest » Noon-5 p.m. Bonita Springs Charter School, 25380 Bernwood Drive, Bonita Springs. Games, music, food and more. With a “Wizard of Oz” theme, there’ll be a yellow brick road, student performances, hay ride shuttle, rock climbing walls, laser tag and more. Admission is free. Game and food tickets are $1 each. bonitaspringscharter.org Southwest Gulf Coast Walk for Apraxia » 9:15 a.m. Estero Community Park, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd., Estero. A fundraiser to bring awareness of Childhood Apraxia of Speech, also known as CAS. Registration begins at 8:15 a.m. Walk is at 9:15. community.apraxia-kids.org/swgulfcoastwalk

Sunday, Nov. 4 20th Annual Fishing Derby » 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Olde Fish House Marina, 4530 Pine Island Road, Matlacha. $75 per adult angler. Fundfaiser for Pine Island Elementary School. Also a children’s fishing derby for grades K-5. eventbrite. com/e/20th-annual-pine-island Taste of the Town » 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Food, music and children’s entertainment. “Tastes” cost $2 to $5. No coolers, pets or outside food and drink. Admission is $10 for ages 13 and older, free for ages 12 and younger. Free parking. Proceeds benefit the Junior League of Fort Myers. jlfm.org

DANCE

Celebrating Since 1951

All Ages

Classical Ballet Pointe Tap Jazz Hip Hop Modern Acrobatics Children’s Work

(239)334-3274 www.dancebochette.com NEWBORN CARE

von Arx Family Foundation Southwest Florida Diabetes & Wellness Conference » 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Florida SouthWestern State College, Collier Campus, 7505 Grand Lely Drive, Naples. Proceeds benefit Help A Diabetic Child Foundation. swfldiabetes.com

Monday, Nov. 5 International Games Week » November 5-10. Three Collier County libraries are transforming to offer special gaming programs and events. Participating libraries are South Regional, 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples; Immokalee, 417 N. First St., Immokalee, and Golden Gate, 2432 Lucerne Road, Naples. collierlibrary.org or games.ala.org

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 53

« calendar Tuesday, Nov. 6

Thursday, Nov. 15

Family Support Groups » Noon-1:30 p.m. NAMI Collier County, 6216 Trail Blvd., Building C, Naples. Support groups for family, caregivers and friends of persons with a diagnosed mental illness. Meets noon-1:30 p.m. the first Tuesday of the month and 5-6:30 p.m. the second Wednesday and fourth Thursday. 239-260-7300.

America Recycles Day » 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Rookery Bay NERR and Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Road, Naples. Buy-one-get-one free admission to promote the importance of recycling for the economy and environment. rookerybay.org

Little Explorers » Conservancy of Southwest Florida, 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples. Every other Tuesday and Thursday, the Little Explorer program holds story time, activities and crafts. Included with regular admission. 239262-0304 conservancy.org/nature-center

Thursday, Nov. 8 Duct Tape Art » 5:30-7 p.m. Vineyards Community Park, 6231 Arbor Blvd., Naples. Turn trash into art. Students make a project using duct tape, canvas and re-purposed pieces of trash. Includes a snack.

Friday, Nov. 9 Fair at Fenway South » November 9-11 and 15-18. JetBlue Park, 11500 Fenway South Drive, Fort Myers. Hours are 5-11:30 p.m. on Fridays, 1-11:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Enjoy rides, food and entertainment. Admission is $8, but discounts are available online. fairatfenway.com

Saturday, Nov. 10 Science Saturday » 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero. Join Mr. Glen and his Science & Engineering team for interactive science projects. miromaroutlets.com Storytime and Activities featuring “Juno Valentine and the Magical Shoes” » 11 a.m. Barnes & Noble at Coconut Point, 23130 Fashion Drive, Estero, and at 13751 Tamiami Trail, south Fort Myers. Juno embarks on an epic journey through time and space, stepping into the shoes of female icons like Frida Kahlo and Serena Williams. Activities follow.

Sunday, Nov. 11 Twins Tot Walk & 5K » 4 p.m. Laishley Park, 120 Laishley Court, Punta Gorda. $22 for the Tot Walk (free for children younger than 12), $35 for the 5K ($15 for ages 14 and younger). Supports the Just Against Children Drowning Foundation. justagainstchildrendrowning.org

Friday, Nov. 16 Friday Night Concert Series » 6-9 p.m. Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero. Enjoy the sounds of The ExBachelors. miromaroutlets.com Youth Fall Play: “Stuart Little” » November 16-18. Centers for the Arts, 10150 Bonita Beach Road S.E., Bonita Springs. Free. Shows are 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. artcenterbonita.org

Saturday, Nov. 17 Taste of Bonita: Rocking with Rotary » 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Riverside Park, 10450 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs. Enjoy food and music. The headline act is Brian Howe, former lead singer for Bad Company. tasteofbonita.com Explore the Magic Harry Potter Event » 2 p.m. Barnes & Noble, 13751 Tamiami Trail, south Fort Myers, and at Coconut Point, 23130 Fashion Drive, Estero. Activities, games, cosplay, LEGO building, special offers and giveaways. Lighting of the Village » 5 p.m. Fishermen’s Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. The Village kicks off the holidays with a display of 1 million lights and themed decorations. Festivities begin at 5 p.m. as Santa arrives on an antique fire truck. Patrons are asked to bring toilet paper, paper towels and bleach to donate to Share the Blessings Ministry. Overflow parking: former IMPAC building, 900 W. Marion Ave., and Five Star Realty. fishville.com Merit Badge University » 9 a.m.-4 p.m. J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, One Wildlife Drive, Sanibel. Registered Boy Scouts of America may participate in “Ding” Darling’s first Merit Badge University, where Scouts can earn up to two out of six badges being offered. Cost is $20 and includes workbooks, lunch and snacks. To register, call 239472-1100 ext. 249. dingdarlingsociety.org Paddle Battle » 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Founder’s Square at Babcock Ranch, 42850 Crescent Loop, Punta Gorda. $35 for each racer. Free for spectators. Paddlers compete in a 3-mile or 6-mile race on Lake Babcock. Racers must register at paddleguru. com/races/BabcockRanchPaddleBattle. Free kids’ splash pad, face painting and popcorn. Live DJ kicks off the race at 10 a.m. 239-992-2184.

Veterans Day Parade » 2-4 p.m. Cape Coral. The annual Veterans Day Parade steps off on Cape Coral Parkway at Southeast 15th Avenue and marches west to Candia Street. This year George Collum, a retired Marine sergeant from the Korean War is the Grand Marshal.

Saints and Sinners Ball » 6 p.m.-midnight. The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village, 5951 Silver King Blvd., Cape Coral. A night of dinner and dancing with Old Hollywood Charm. Formal attire, black tie preferred. All proceeds benefit St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral. standrewsaintsandsinners.com

Wednesday, Nov. 14

Salute to Veterans » 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Estero Community Park, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd., Estero. Free, family-oriented party with children’s activities, free hot dogs, a 21-gun salute, patriotic and pop music by Estero concert artist Lindsey Graham and recognition of those who are currently serving, or have previously served, our country.

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

54 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

calendar » Sunday, Nov. 18 Vegan Festival and Competition » 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. The Venue Naples, 13240 Tamiami Trail N., Naples. $5 in advanced at eventbrite.com (search Vegan-Festival) or $6 at the door. Free for children younger than 10. Restaurants celebrate veganism with music, food and crafts for the kids.

Tuesday, Nov. 20 Home School Nature and Science Programs » 1-2:30 p.m. Rotary Park, 5505 Rose Garden Road, Cape Coral. $5. Programs for home-school students to learn about the nature and natural history of Florida. Make a related craft in some programs. Programs are geared for a board age group. Shoes and clothes appropriate for outdoor exploration required. Today’s class topic is Botany. For ages 4-15. 239-549-4606. Movies on the Lawn: “The Last Jedi” » 5:45-7:45 p.m. Mercato, 9118 Strada Place, Naples. Guests are invited to bring lawn chairs, blankets and well-behaved pets for a movie under the stars. No coolers; food, adult beverages and soft drinks will be available for purchase, provided by Naples Flatbread.

Wednesday, Nov. 21 Community Camp Day » 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sanibel Sea School provides free day camps on select dates to help parents when school is closed. For ages 6-13 and Counselors in Training ages 13-17. To register, email parent name, email address and phone number, child’s name, gender and date of birth (if 13, include whether they want to be a camper or a counselor). communitycamp@sanibelseaschool.org.

Friday, Nov. 23 Photos with Santa » November 23-December 23. Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero. Make a memory and receive a free photo with Santa. miromaroutlets.com “The Nutcracker” » November 23-24. Artis»Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. The Moscow Ballet and Naples Philharmonic return with this seasonal favorite. Shows are 7 p.m. Friday and 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday. Tickets are $39-$90. artisnaples.org

Saturday, Nov. 24 Storytime and Activities featuring “Mickey Mouse Goes Christmas Shopping” » 11 a.m. Barnes & Noble, 13751 Tamiami Trail, south Fort Myers, and at Coconut Point, 23130 Fashion Drive, Estero. In this charming vintage book, Mickey and Minnie take Mickey’s nephews to a big department store for a day of holiday shopping they’ll never forget.

Tuesday, Nov. 27 Festival of Trees » November 27-December 2. Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, 2301 First St., Fort Myers. $2 admission; prices vary for special events. About 25 lavishly decorated trees decorated by sponsors are on display. Vote for your favorite and purchase raffle tickets. Each tree will be raffled on the last day. Special events include a free Friday concert, Santa’s Block Party on Saturday, Tree Preview & Goodwill Breakthrough Awards

Celebration, Ugly Sweater Contest, Painting for a Purpose and Bingo. Santa’s Workshop is 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, December 1, when kids enjoy workshops, breakfast and a visit with Santa ($6). 239-333-1933. goodwilltrees.com The Piano Guys: Christmas Together » 7:30 p.m. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. The Piano Guys have performed everywhere from The Tonight Show with Jay Leno to The Today Show. Tickets are $59.50$175 (the latter includes a VIP meet-and-greet). 239-4814849. bbmannpah.com

Wednesday, Nov. 28 The Naples Players present “White Christmas” » November 28-December 23. Sugden Community Theatre, 701 Fifth Ave. S., Naples. $40 for adults, $10 for students 21 and younger. Based on the beloved film, this musical adaptation features 17 Irving Berlin songs and a book by David Ives and Paul Blake. Shows are 7:30 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday and 2 p.m. Sundays. 239-263-7990. naplesplayers.org

Thursday, Nov. 29 Royal Palm Academy’s Fashion Show & Luncheon » 11 a.m.-2 p.m. The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, 280 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. All proceeds benefit student programs at the school. $150 ticket includes lunch, Lilly Pulitzer Fashion Show and two raffle tickets. 239-594-9888.

Saturday, Dec. 1 Great Outdoor Adventure Day » 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd. Fort Myers Beach. At the kayak launch and picnic area. Food, children’s activities and ranger-led programs, including guided kayak, walking and bike tours (bike and helmets provided) and fishing clinics. Paddle boarding clinics for kids, beginners and advanced paddlers. Junior Ranger Activity Kits available. Free with regular park entrance of $8 per vehicle of up to eight people, $4 for a single occupant and $2 per pedestrian or bicyclist. Guided Kayak tours are $10, kayak rental included. floridastateparks. org/events/great-outdoor-adventure-day-2018 “The Nutcracker” » 2 and 7 p.m. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. Gulfshore Ballet and Gulf Coast Symphony present Tchaikovsky’s holiday classic. Tickets are $29-$85. LIFEwalk 2018 » 8-11 a.m. Jaycee Park, 4125 S.E. 20th Place, Cape Coral. Benefits Lifeline Family Center, a maternity home and rehabilitation center for homeless pregnant young women, moms and babies. Refreshments, face painting and activities for the kids. lifewalklfc.org Santa’s Workshop » 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, 2301 First St., Fort Myers. $6 per child. Kids create art, color holiday cards, decorate cookies, build a wooden craft, write letters to Santa and military service members, play games and bounce in a bounce house. goodwilltrees.com

Wednesday, Dec. 5 “The Wizard of Oz” » 7:30 p.m. December 5-6. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. $30-$65. 239-481-4849. bbmannpah.com

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 55

» voices

Tandy McGrail of Southwest Florida is mom to Kimmy, a 5-year-old on the autism spectrum.

GUEST COLUMNIST

Horse as therapist Naples Therapeutic Riding Center’s new hippotherapy program gets Kimmy ready for life outside the farm.

56 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

Before getting off Peppermint Patty, Kimmy leans forward to give a hug and thank her for the therapy.

SRIJITA CHATTOPADHYAY

first noticed issues with Kimmy when she was 2 years old. She wasn’t communicating or making eye contact. After she was diagnosed with autism, our occupational therapist, Mary Fellenz, was the first person to help us. I often say that navigating the road of autism takes a village. Mary has been an integral part of our village and a huge support to our family. After enrolling in Able Academy (an organization that uses applied behavior analysis to help children with various special needs) and through our work with Mary, Kimmy, now 5, has developed language, appropriate social behavior and self-care skills. Mary uses many techniques to accomplish this, including listening therapy and joint pressure, which helps get her systems ready for situations that can be overwhelming so that she doesn’t shut down completely. When Mary mentioned the opportunity to be part of a new program called hippotherapy at Naples Therapeutic Riding Center, we jumped at the chance. It was challenging at first. When they finally got Kimmy on the horse, she just sat there for 20 minutes. The team was so patient with her. They gently pushed her through the exercises. When she got off, she was so intrigued by this beautiful, breathing giant. It was a very special, surreal moment. To this day, I have never seen Kimmy interact so positively with anything

and with so much joy as she has with these horses. In addition to communication challenges, Kimmy has “painful” reactions to everyday sounds and touch. Because she loves the horses so much, her favorite toys are now My Little Pony. In the hippotherapy sessions, Mary uses the toys to put shaving cream on to help her cope with tactile sensitivity. We never dreamed, in just six sessions, she would head into therapy

smiling and excited and end calm and relaxed. The changes have translated outside of the “farm,” as Kimmy calls it. Now she can tolerate activities that used to bother her. She has a longer attention span and is having improved interactions at home and with her teachers. We are so happy our village now includes Naples Therapeutic Riding Center. Kimmy can’t wait for her next session.

What is hippotherapy? Naples Therapeutic Riding Center is a nonprofit that provides therapeutic horseback riding and other equinefacilitated group services for children and adults with special needs and physical challenges. Pediatric occupational therapist Mary Fellenz recently helped the equine center launch a new program called hippotherapy. Hippotherapy uses the purposeful manipulation of equine movement to strengthen the development of fine visual and sensory motor skills. Hippotherapy is part of an integrated treatment strategy used by occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech-language pathology professionals to help children and adults with sensory processing disorder, autism, motor incoordination, feeding problems, ADHD, behavior issues and self-regulation challenges. The first session included five children from Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s practice with autism, physical challenges and sensory processing difficulties. The children increased core strength, which improved standing and sitting balance, fine motor skills such as handwriting, self-regulation and an ease in transitioning from one activity to the other. The center accepts donations and help from volunteers. Get details at naplestherapeuticridingcenter.org or call 239596-2988.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD Âť NOVEMBER 2018 Âť 57

» a father’s view

Jim Dwyer is a Southwest Florida father of three boys.

JIM DW Y ER

Homework blues

grew up in a small suburb of Chicago and went to the local Catholic school in town. When my school day was through, I would walk home, fling my book bag down and immediately head out on my bike or to the backyard to play with the other kids on my street. At least that’s what I wanted to do, but sometimes there was a speed bump called “homework.” Man, I hated homework. Wasn’t it enough that I spent most of the school day doing, you know, schoolwork? Why did it have to keep going on at home? In my effort to hit the yard as quickly as possible, I would often fib when Mom asked whether I had homework. “Nope, I did it all in class.” She must have thought I was quite a disciplined young man. Eventually though, my grades hit. I wasn’t the most disciplined student, and my poor mom never really had a chance. She would ask me about homework, and I would assure her. As long as I stayed out of trouble just enough that a call from school didn’t go home, she had no way of knowing until the quarterly grades were sent out. Then I was in for it, but it wouldn’t last forever. I would get put back in line, but eventually homework would slip again, and the fibs would pick up.

58 » NOVEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

The nice thing about living in 2018 is that those problems are in the past. Like everything else in our lives, technology has taken over and has solved everything. Well, not really, because nature finds a way. My boy Ryan despises homework as much as his dad did. He gets frustrated with the amount and doesn’t really understand why he has to keep thinking about school stuff after school. These days everyone is on a system. The school sends email, and they use apps to communicate with parents and students alike. It does have its advantages,

the main one being that when there is a problem, we don’t have to wait for the grades to hit to find out about it. But the thing is, what it can’t really change is human nature. Every night — literally every night — the discussion happens: “Ryan, do you have any homework?” “Nope, I did it all in school.” “But it says right here that you have math homework, Chapter 6, Units 2 and 3, due tomorrow.” “No, Mom, we did that in class.” In all this time from my youth, nothing has really changed. There is always a little fib that can get you through today. The only reason it works is that sometimes it’s true. Believe me, we have called him on it and reached out to the teacher to find out that it was indeed done in class. Technology has given us apps and systems, so we know what’s been assigned and what is going on at school. It gives us a fighting chance to stay on top of the kid, but they can’t change the one truth. Ryan hates homework and is going to find a way to throw us off the scent. So we are left doing the best we can and keeping our fingers crossed that when the grade report hits, Ryan has pulled it off for one more quarter.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » NOVEMBER 2018 » 59

We are proud to be America’s newest and most beautiful hospital! It’s an honor to receive this award. This award belongs to the citizens of Southwest Florida. If not for your generosity and support over the years, the Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida would not exist. This celebration is about you—our community—and your generosity. Your generosity and sense of community made this beautiful hospital a reality.

leehealth.org/childrens-health