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Calling All Room Moms: Valentine’s Day Party Plan
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www.parentingplus.com Parenting Plus • February 2014 1
Publisher: Posie Thompson (561) 795-4815
Main Offi ce: (561) 795-4815 phone (561) 491-5504 fax
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Contributing Writers:
Photography:Double Exposure
Model:Hannah & Gabrielle
2 Calling All Room Moms: A Valentine Party Plan by Pam Molnar
4 Mom Warrior Solutions to Raising a Child with Autism. Never give up Hope!
by Jill Kravitz
6 Gardening as a Family by Jamie Lober
8 Smooth Moving ~ A Parent’s Guide to Making a New Space Feel Like Home
by Beth Fornauf
10 “Mom, The Kids Can’t Eat That!” by Meredith Bollheimer
12 Effective Family Meetings: Five Ways to Make Your Time Together Better
by Beth N. Davis
14 Clear Clutter and Get Organized by Jamie Lober
16 Fixing Your Brain Helps Fix Your Home by Lyndsy Lyons-Howard, Ed.S., NCSP
17 20 Minutes to a Clean House and a Happy Mom
by Laura Lane
20 Calendar of Events
TABLE OF CONTENTS
is published twelve times a year by Parenting Plus LLC, at 226 Sulky Way, Suite 1, Wellington, FL 33414.
Editorial submissions and reader correspondence are welcome. We reserve the right to edit, reject or comment on any material submitted. We cannot be responsible for the return of unsolicited material. Parenting Plus is available free of charge at numerous locations throughout Palm Beach County. Publication and distribution of the magazine does not constitute an endorsement of information, products or services. The publisher reserves the right to reject any advertisement or listing which is not in keeping with the magazine’s standards. ©2014. All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without written permission.
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February 2014 Home Improvement
Meredith BollheimerBeth FornaufJamie Lober
Lyndsy Lyons-Howard, Ed.S., NCSP Pam Molnar
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a Happy Mom
Calendar of Events
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Every February 14th, thousands of students celebrate Valentine’s Day with a classroom party. They exchange Valentine’s cards, make a craft and play a few games. As a Room Mom, it is hard to come up with ideas that the kids have not seen before. If you are still struggling with ideas for your child’s classroom party, look no further.
CraftsValentine’s Day Vases – Purchase vases from the dollar store, along with glue, paint brushes, Epson salt and red food coloring. Before the party, mix the Epson salt with the food coloring to give the salt a pink glow. Set up a station to include 6 gallon zip bags filled with the Epson salt mixture. Have the kids paint the outside of the vases with glue and when the vase is covered, place inside the zipped bag. Move the mixture around to cover the vase evenly. This works well with votive candles, too.
Family Bracelet – The kids can make this project for their best Valentine (Mom) or the girls may want to keep it for themselves. Purchase elastic string and beads to make a family bracelet. Choose bead colors to correspond with birthstone colors – red for January, purple for February, etc. – and let the kids choose the bead colors for their family. Find heart shaped spacer beads to complete the design.
Corkboard Frame – For this project, you will need ¼” thick corkboard cut into 4” squares, clear pushpins and colored yarn. Have the kids arrange the pushpins in the shape of a heart and wind the yarn around the pushpins to form a heart shaped frame. Ask the parents ahead of time for a photo of their child and have them available for the kids to put in the middle of the frame. Embellish the rest of the frame with foam stickers or jewels.
By Pam Molnar
GamesMusical Hearts – A Valentine’s Day
spin on the two classic games: Musical Chairs and Hot Potato. Using hinged
clothes pins, pass around a paper heart in while seated in a circle. Like Musical
Chairs, play music as they pass the heart. If you break a heart, drop a heart or have the heart when the music stops, you are out.
This game moves quickly!
Matching Hearts – This is a whole class game. Write the name of a famous couple (like Mickey and Minnie) or other items that would go together (salt and pepper or hat and gloves) on each half of a heart. Mix up the halves and pass the hearts out to the students. Can everyone find their match in 5 minutes? How about in 2 minutes?
Twisted Hearts – Kids love the game Twister! Create a Valentine’s Day version by taping 16 colored hearts on the floor. (Not enough room for 16? Make smaller rows or use less colors.) Create your own spinner or create colored dice – one with the heart color and the other one with the words for right or left hands and feet.
Plant a Kiss on the Mascot – Recreate your school mascot or shine a digital version on the wall. Make enough paper lips for each student. Blindfold the student and have a partner (like one from the Matching Hearts game) tell him where to place the lips. The closest lips win.
Shakedown – Fill an empty wide mouthed bottle (like Gatorade) halfway with candy hearts. Use super glue to attach another bottle mouth to mouth and tape around it to secure. For this game, have the kids roll the dice and then try to shake down all the hearts except that number into the other bottle. For example, if they roll a
three, they need to shake down most of the hearts into the next bottle, leaving three remaining in the first bottle. For an added challenge, give them a time limit or create two shakers and make it a race. In the excitement of the party, kids can go through these activities fast! Looking for a quick game to play to pass the time until the party ends? Every Room Mom should keep these games in her classroom party arsenal.
Heads up 7up – Every child sits at his desk with his head down and one thumb up. Seven children are chosen to be “it” and quietly goes around the room picking one thumb to push down. When everyone is through, the seven go to the front of the room. Those who had their thumb moved stand up and guess who did it. If they are right, they switch places and get to be it. If they are wrong, the actual person who moved their thumb gets to stay and play again.
Four corners – Choose four Valentine’s Day words like heart, cupid, love and valentine. A room mom stands in each corner of the room holding one of those words on a piece of paper. The teacher closes her eyes as the students pick one corner to stand in. The teacher calls out a word and those students standing in that corner have to sit down. Play continues until one person is left standing.
Silent Ball – All the students are seated at their desk. Using a yarn ball, have the students throw the ball to each other. A student is out if it is a bad throw (not to the person), if someone drops it or if someone gets out of their seat to catch it. Students who are out have to get out of their seat and stand in the front of the classroom. Last one seated is the winner.
Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three. She has been a Room
Mom for 10 years.
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I am a mother of a beautiful, amazing, sweet 4 year old daughter. Zoey was diagnosed at 2 with autism when we saw significant behavioral issues and delays her in communication. Currently, she is attending a Palm Beach school for Autism. These are some tips from personal experience that I have gone through. There is not one solution, take it one day at a time and never give up hope!
Reach out to othersWhen you have concerns and feel like your child might have autism or developmental delays, it is crucial to go speak with a developmental pediatrician or pediatrician. A medical professional will be able to help with what steps you should take to get any psychological and medical diagnosis. In addition, the school district can assist and have a school psychologist come to your home for initial consultation and evaluation of your child.
Research and find out what facilities are available to help your childThe place where your child received the medical diagnosis should be able to refer you to places where your child can receive private or public therapy. There is not one solution, when you get early intervention (my daughter was 2) the easier it is for your child to get help with developmental delays. There is a time span of when your child can show significant progress if there is early intervention. When you wait to get help, your child can suffer and might be too late for them to benefit in the same way.
Visit and meet in personInterview the staff at the facilities where your child can receive whatever therapy or assistance is available.
Call your insurance companyAlways check the provider list or call the insurance company directly to find out what facilities, therapists or doctors are covered under the plan. Find the right me time activities I can’t stress this enough how
important it is to try and start your day on the right foot. Many mornings I would wake up and want to go back to sleep. Once I had a good plan such as what activities I could participate in such as exercise. If you can’t afford to join a gym, it is still important to do some type of exercise. When it’s nice outside, take a walk or get a DVD that you can use at home. When you push yourself even in the toughest situations, your self-esteem will improve.
Support groupsTry to find a support group in the town or area you live in. I was lucky to find a mom’s group who had children with special needs. The mom’s group was a place I could cry, laugh and discuss any issues with my daughter. The connection I found was one of a place I could feel safe and put many of the struggles I had into perspective. Life will seem less stressful, when you find a group or even one person that can listen and offer some positive strategies.
Alone timeIt may seem like a cliché, but find alone time to relax and chill out. Sometimes being alone might feel like you are alone and no one understands what you are going through. Each day might be an effort to get out your depression or funk. Some activities that I recommend to help when you feel down are meditation, yoga, walk outside on a sunny day or get a good book that offers some helpful support.
Dealing with fits and meltdownsThis is one of the most the stressful topics and I can’t say enough about how you need to have a plan when your child turns into a mess. Screaming tantrums can become violent. My husband and I had our faces slapped and scratched, hair pulled and resistance from our daughter. Usually the fits occurred at times when my daughter could not use her words and wanted something unattainable. One example occurred at the child center located at My Gym. The play center had an area where the kids could go down a slide, walk
through a maze or hang from equipment set up. My daughter normally played in an enclosed area where she could run around and play with other kids. When I entered the room to pick her up, my daughter was hysterical and very frustrated. She could not say I want to go to the other area where the slide and maze are. Instead, she cried and screamed in frustration for her socks (before I left she took her socks and shoes off.) When the socks were put back on her feet and she was given the opportunity to play in the other area, her cries and frustration immediately stopped. She was happy, calm and not out of control. Solution, slow down and take a deep breath. No, your child might not be able to say with words but actions what they want.
Help your child to become more independent.When I gave my daughter opportunities to feel more independent, there were less meltdowns and frustrated behaviors. One example was when I gave my daughter the choice to push the cart or sit inside during grocery shopping. Her choice was to push the shopping cart as walked around the store. I found this was easier when my husband was there with us, since my daughter could turn into a mess when she could not go to a certain area of the store.
Meltdowns and fits that turn violentHow do you deal, when you find yourself in the most challenging situations like when your child becomes upset, frustrated, starts to hurt themselves or others?
First, remember there is not one answer to solve life’s most challenging situations. I had to work with behavior therapists, psychologists and developmental doctors that were trained in ways to help me.
Have a plan when your child is uncontrollable. “Never give up hope” is what I always say. Take a deep breath and do your best not to take out frustration on your child as it is not their fault. Something triggers the fit whether they are over tired
Mom Warrior Solutions to Raising a Child with Autism.
Never give up Hope!by Jill Kravitz
www.parentingplus.com Parenting Plus • February 2014 5
or not able to calm down, take a moment to realize they need help. Appreciate these moments as learning experiences that hopefully will feel like you are moving ahead with each situation.
Some strategies that have helped to prepare your child for routine, schedule and life skills, Visual schedulesLaminate pictures. Car time to offer proactive guidance I learned that car time is precious moments where you can teach your child about the environment. Suggestions like what do you see in the sky? What color are those fl owers? Where are we going? Try to get them in engaged instead of silence or not interacting with your child. Many times I get caught up in a zone when I drive, but I try to take the time to engage some conversation with Zoey.
Music in the car can make all the difference. Some of my favorite times with my daughter are in the car when I am driving. Since I spend so much time driving back and forth to her school, therapy and other activities,Kids music your child is familiar with (I tried to stick with popular kids tunes like Twinkle Twinkle, Old McDonald, Little Teapot,etc), Jazz, classical and spa sounds can help sooth your child and keep them calm.
Try to stick to a schedule each day.I admit that a schedule is not something that I was excited about or wanted, but when I set up a time schedule it truly made a difference.
Each day, try to give meals at the same time, bath and dinner. Also, bed time is crucial as well.
Story schedule boards.If you can fi nd an autism store (mostly will be online) there are some great products that normal stores don’t carry since they work with certain vendors that only sell to these stores.
A schedule board includes picture cards to help your child see visually different schedules for home, school and a job. Each picture tells a story for your child to help direct them with daily schedules, grooming, toileting, bathing, dressing, meal and snack time options.
I also love how you each picture has a piece of Velcro on the back to place on the board. Example there is a picture of a toilet for bathroom to help Zoey understand she will go to the potty. Story boards can make a huge difference in your child’s behavior.Oral items to help when child puts hand in
mouth, biting fi ngers,etc.
Some solutions that helped us and might not work for everyone:Chewy tubes and other products she could chew on (autism stores carry these) Stop the behavior when you see it in calm and rational manner. Don’t yell when you see your child do this. They can’t help it and acting aggressive towards your child might scare or make the situation worse.
How technology can make your child smarter. Some great ideas to engage your child in computer technology.Have them use the pad mouse and hand mouse to navigate where they want to go on the computer.
Each Day I Like It Better
Each Day I Like It Better: Autism, ECT, and the Treatment of Our Most Impaired Children by Amy S. F. Lutz is a story of hope, perseverance, and ultimately, transformation, as the author recounts how the violent rages of her autistic son Jonah were resolved through the use of electroconvulsive
therapy (ECT). It also recounts the journeys of seven other children and their families (interviewed by the author) in their quests for appropriate educational placements and therapeutic interventions. The author describes their varied, but mostly successful, experiences with ECT.
In the fall of 2009, Amy Lutz and her husband, Andy, struggled with one of the worst decisions parents could possibly face: whether they could safely keep their autistic ten-year-old son, Jonah, at home any longer. Multiple medication trials, a long procession of behavior modifi cation strategies, and even an almost year-long hospitalization had all failed to control his violent rages. Desperate to stop the attacks that endangered family members, caregivers, and even Jonah himself, Amy and Andy decided to try the controversial procedure of electroconvulsive therapy or ECT. Over the last three years, Jonah has received 136 treatments. His aggression has greatly diminished, and for the fi rst time Jonah, now fourteen, is moving to a less restricted school.
“Amy Lutz takes us inside the mysterious world of autism and provides a heart-
wrenching chronicle of what it is like to love a child with almost overwhelming needs. … I recommend this book not just for parents of children with autism, but for anyone facing the physical and emotional rollercoaster of caring for a loved one with a devastating illness.”
—Eve Herold, Director, Office of Communications and Public Affairs for the American Psychiatric Association
“In addition to being one of the most moving accounts imaginable of the love and devotion that parents of these challenging but splendid children bring forth, the book is also one of the best informed: Amy Lutz is thoroughly familiar with the scientifi c literature, and applies it to her own, stricken world to great effect.“
—Edward Shorter, University of Toronto, co-author of Shock Therapy: A History of Electroconvulsive Treatment in Mental Illness
“Amy Lutz shines a bright spotlight on the needs of the most severely affected children with autism, a group that has long suffered in the dark. These kids, whose lives are challenged by self-injurious behaviors and aggressive outbursts that drastically limit their ability to interact in the world, should have access to all evidence-based interventions that science indicates can improve their lives, including ECT.”
—Alison Singer, President, Autism Science Foundation
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Amy S. F. Lutz’s writing about autism and other issues she has encountered as the mother of fi ve children has been featured on the websites Babble and Slate. She is one of the founders of EASI Foundation: Ending Aggression and Self-Injury in the Developmentally Disabled. Her advocacy has taken her before the FDA, the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee, and the International Society for ECT and Neurostimulation.
Each Day I Like It Better: Autism, ECT, and the Treatment of Our Most Impaired ChildrenF. Lutz is a story of hope, perseverance, and ultimately, transformation, as the author recounts how the violent rages of her autistic son Jonah were resolved through the use of electroconvulsive
therapy (ECT). It also recounts the journeys
www.parentingplus.com Parenting Plus • February 2014
6 Parenting Plus • February 2014 www.parentingplus.com
When you think of activities you can partake in as a family this spring, gardening should be at the top of your list. “It gets you out in the fresh air, gives you wonderful exercise and helps you grow closer as a family,” said Twig Morris, President of the Wellington Garden Club. It also allows you to enjoy the benefi ts of nature and your surroundings. There is no excuse not to roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty.
Kids are being exposed to the outdoors early in life. “There are junior garden clubs in the schools that are teaching children not only how to grow things but how these things are so nutritious,” said Morris. You may be amazed to fi nd that your child does not have a foundation on where we get our food. “A lot of kids have no clue that pizza comes from tomatoes and that you can put more than just tomato sauce and cheese on a pizza,” said Morris. Another great example is the delicious fresh fruit smoothies that you can fi nd at Farmers Daughter Garden Center. They are blended with bananas, strawberries, kiwis, peaches, pears and more. Not only are they healthy but they provide antioxidants.
You do not need a large yard to get creative. Try to plant window boxes. “Your child could poke a hole and you can put the plant in and push
the dirt around the plant,” said Morris. Each family member can have a task. “Your child can help you water and have great fun with you because you will have closeness and a common goal,” said Morris. Remember that patience is a virtue and a seed does not turn into a fl ower overnight. “Help your child understand that just as he is growing daily, everything in nature grows daily and something might start small and end up as a huge oak tree or as wonderful food that you put on your plate or that feeds the animals,” said Morris. There is a connection between all of those things.
The National Gardening Association suggested planting an herb garden. All you need are containers, soilless potting and seed-starting mix, fertilizer, herb seeds and/or plants. They said that the best herbs for indoor growing are basil, cilantro, rosemary, sage and parsley. You should use individual pots for each plant so there is no competition and you can care for each herb individually. Glazed ceramic pots or plastic containers are preferable and it should be medium sized, which means between 6 and 10 inches. Be sure the container has drainage holes and waterproof saucers.
Take the time to go exploring. Mounts Botanical Garden is on Military Trail between Southern & Belvedere and they have wonderful gardens. “Kids love to see butterfl ies and caterpillars which are all part of science,” said Morris. Together you may get some inspiration toward your next project. “It is simple to grow vegetable gardens where you buy the plants and grow them in an egg carton,” said Morris. Your kid can plant the seeds. “They take strips of newspaper and put a light mixture of glue on them and the seeds into that glue and when everything dries put it in the ground, cover with a little soil and you have effectively made a seed tape,” said
Morris. The newspaper will disintegrate and the seeds will grow.
You never run out of new things to try. “The learning process in gardening is unending because you do not just plant a plant and let it grow; you learn trial and error like if the plant needed shade and you put it in the sun and it died or vice versa,” said Morris. Water and nutrients are essential to survival. Kids can get in the habit of talking to the plants. “I have one friend who waters her plants every morning and tells them that they are looking especially lovely and magnifi cent that day,” said Morris. Taking care of plants makes all the difference. “A lot of houseplants die because people overwater them, especially orchids which have a reputation of being fussy but happiest if you just leave them alone,” said Morris. If you put an orchid under a tree to get shade, they will get water naturally and be happy.
You will fi nd that your entire family can get pleasure from gardening. Take pictures and show off what you are doing. “Gardens can be simple and require little maintenance,” said Morris. Some plants are slow-growing and do not require a lot of attention. Others require more time and care. There is something for everyone. “If you love to eat fresh vegetables, you can do a vegetable garden and if you like butterfl ies, you can plant things for butterfl ies and birds,” said Morris. Girls and boys alike can reap the benefi ts of gardening. “They are fascinated about fi nding little bugs and worms and just love it,” said Morris. This season is a great time to get started.
© 2014 Jamie LoberJamie Lober, author of Pink Power (http://www.getpinkpower.com), is dedicated to providing information on women’s and pediatric health topics. She can be reached at [email protected].
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8 Parenting Plus • February 2014 www.parentingplus.com
“Mommy look for diapers? Mommy no fi nd the diapers?” My two-year old daughter repeated this soundtrack of questions as, bare-bottomed, she followed me through a maze of boxes and stacks of bins. I balanced my saturated fi ve-month old on my hip as I peeked through bags, alternately berating myself for losing track of the diapers, and praying that my sort-of-potty-trained toddler wouldn’t christen our new home with an accident on the carpet.
Let’s face it, moving is never easy, but when you’ve got young children in the mix relocating feels downright impossible. You can prepare them and plan all you want, but the truth is that settling into a new space, and making it feel like home, takes time.
But there are ways to speed up the process and ease the transition for your little ones. If a new home is in your future, keep these settling strategies in mind to make your move go as smoothly as possible.
Set up systemsNo matter how frazzled you feel at times, you’ve probably developed some systems that work for you. What’s a system? Basically any process or procedure that helps you get things accomplished. This could be as simple as having diaper change stations on two fl oors, or storing sippy cups and plastic bowls in low cabinets so your kids can reach them.
Most people have developed systems like these without realizing it, and most family members participate in them without knowing it. That is, until moving day.
The beauty of systems is that they are functional, but they also provide comfort and independence for kids. Even young children like knowing where to put their dirty clothes, or take off their wet boots.
Do yourself a favor: reset your systems and routines as soon as you can.
Start with the ones that help you and your kids meet basic needs, such as diaper-changing, accessing food and drink, and enabling self-care. Then work on systems that make your household chores, like laundry and recycling, easier. On our last move it took days to fi nd a permanent spot for the First Aid box full of Dora the Explorer Band-Aids (a necessity for all that ails a toddler), and several meltdowns occurred as a result. Don’t let this happen to you.
Dedicate spaceSome children may love tearing through a new home to claim a new bedroom. But the uncertainty of a new environment and loss of familiarity of an old home can be alarming for others. This doesn’t just go for bedrooms. Losing the comfort of a kitchen or the surroundings of other common areas can be especially unsettling, and empty spaces fi lled with boxes don’t offer the best welcome.
If you can, try to dedicate at least one safe, familiar space on your fi rst day. If it makes sense to have this be your child’s bedroom, spend some time in there with her, and quickly bring in her favorite toys and make her bed. If there is a living or family room that feels friendlier, do the same there. Settle your little one in with some crayons and paper and let him have some quiet coloring time.
If your kids are a little older, try involving them in the settling process. Ask “which spot will work best for the sofa?” or “where do you think you’d like to put your bed?” Giving your kids some ownership about how the new space fl ows will not only clue you in to what makes them comfortable, but also make them feel like they are invested in the new place, and that their opinions are valuable.
Lighten UpFor some reason, lighting and window treatments are often the last things people tackle after a big move; this time, make
the effort to deal with them earlier. Why? Easy: lighting has a huge impact on how welcoming a place feels. Sure it all seems great during the day when the sun is streaming through the windows, but at night when you’re blindly fumbling for the right light switch, or you don’t have blinds to close for privacy, well – you may wish you’d shed some light on the space.
Handling lighting actually sounds a lot more complex than it is. One easy remedy is to make sure that each person’s room has a good lamp with a working bulb (sounds simple, yet so easily forgotten). For the adults’ rooms, it’s nice to have the lamp within reach of the bed in case you’re up during the night. In children’s rooms, for safety, try to fi gure out which outlet is activated by the light switch and plug the lamp in there.
For our family, blackout curtains are a must in the kids’ bedrooms. They keep early morning light from seeping in (and waking disoriented little ones!). But if you don’t need them, do take the time to cover the windows with something for the fi rst night, even if it is a temporary fi x for privacy. If you can tack up the window treatments from your old house that’s even better as it provides a familiar decorative touch.
After a day or two you can focus on lightening up the rest of the house, but be sure to take measurements. Also, it’s always a good idea to have extra bulbs on hand (note the type and size in bathrooms and the kitchen too) so you don’t get stuck in the dark!
Get cookingOne of the most disruptive parts of moving can be the take-out rut. During a move, there’s a shortage of home-cooked meals that is hard to avoid. Fast food is a temporary fi x, but nothing says welcome home like yummy smells wafting from the kitchen.
While it would be nice if everyone’s new neighbors welcomed them with a
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www.parentingplus.com Parenting Plus • February 2014 9
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homemade casserole, it’s not something you should plan on. Once your kitchen is (mostly) unpacked, think about your easiest, go-to meal solution and get cooking. If you’re not the chef in the family, shop for your partner and offer to assist or clean up.
Breaking in the new kitchen has multiple benefi ts. It will bring your family together at your new table, and help you get a feel for your new cooking space. And your fi rst meal doesn’t have to be fancy. If breakfast works for your family, grab a box of instant pancake mix, throw some bacon in a pan and voila - you’ve got a meal.
While adjusting to a new home will never be instantaneous, it can be easier than you think. Just take it one step (or room) at a time, and soon you’ll feel at home sweet home.
Beth Fornauf is a freelance writer who has moved more times than she cares to count. She lives with her
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husband and two children and hopes her next move will be her last…for the foreseeable future.
10 Parenting Plus • February 2014 www.parentingplus.com
I take a deep breath and spit it out…“Mom, can you not put that in the microwave if you are going to feed it to the kids?” She stops, processes what I have said and quickly and pleasantly agrees to remove the frozen macaroni and cheese from its black plastic container, and put it in a glass bowl to heat up. I feel better that my kids won’t be eating BPA-laced macaroni and cheese, while also experiencing my usual guilt for having once again corrected her about what she is giving to my kids. The guilt is accompanied by a small trace of embarrassment triggered by the thoughts I imagine she is having. “Really?” “We are not even microwaving things anymore.” “I was okay with the organic apples and sunscreen, but this is getting ridiculous.” I want to respond to these thoughts I imagine she is having, but it seems slightly irrational, given the fact that she has said nothing and has complied graciously with my request.
Parents of young kids today engage daily in the battle to protect our kids from the vast array of chemical compounds that make their way into our foods and consumer products. We know about the Dirty Dozen list. We know about BPA, phthalates, and parabens. We know about the overuse of antibiotics in corn-fed non-organic cow meat. We know it all. We wish we didn’t. We really, really wish we didn’t.
In generations past, the food conversations between young mothers likely amounted to the equivalent of sharing a new meatloaf recipe. The conversation today is often focused on raising children that can go out into the world as healthy non-biologically damaged humans. We may not frame it in this exact way, but it is what we are talking about when we converse about organic shopping, microwaving in plastic, avoiding chemical sunscreens, and BPA in canned foods.
It can be challenging to explain why you don’t want your child to eat canned green beans with dinner at your mother-in-laws. You know she is going to look at you like you have two heads. She may nicely say “oh, okay, I can cut up an apple instead”. To which you want to reply, “is it organic?”. But at this point, you dare not poo-poo another
of her generous offerings. (You can quietly peel off the pesticide-ridden skin when she is not looking.) You know when you leave, she is going to call her sister in Florida and make fun of you for being a “food Nazi” with her grandchildren. They will then warmly reminisce about how much more laid back they were as parents, and how they didn’t worry about any of the stuff we worry about today. They will comfort themselves with the fact that they fed their children canned green beans and they turned out just fine.
There was something much simpler about parenting in generations past, specifically as it relates to food. Most food was cooked at home and came far less processed, in less packaging, and with less pesticide exposure. Meat came from animals that lived on real farms and were not routinely treated with steroids and antibiotics. Our parents grew up and raised their children without having to really worry too much about all of these issues, so it is easy in some ways to understand their dismissive attitude about our preoccupation with what our kids are eating. It was just not their reality as young parents.
There is a large amount of data now available linking the myriad of chemicals found in our foods and products and the negative health outcomes associated with those chemicals that include behavioral issues, delayed development, fertility problems, cancer, and childhood asthma. It is no wonder that we are a little more worried about what our kids are eating and the products and chemicals to which they are exposed. Getting Grandma and other caregivers onboard with what you want for your child is possible.
Don’t Wait Until Dinner TimeTry to tackle this issue up front in one conversation. Set aside a time and a place. For example, if you have a baby who is just starting to eat solid food and your baby is going to be watched by Grandma, you should plan to have a conversation before the unsupervised feedings begin. It is a bad strategy to wait until right before a meal or a babysitting session and then be forced to rely on somewhat passive-aggressive strategies to get the message across.
These passive-aggressive strategies don’t work because the caregiver is not going to understand why you are being so strict about food rules and if they don’t get it, they are far less likely to follow it. If you can convince Grandma that repeated exposure to micro-waved plastic is likely increasing your daughter’s lifetime risk for breast cancer, it is nearly certain that Grandma will never on her watch ever allow a piece of plastic anywhere within a 10-foot radius of baby, heated or not. Another strategy is to do what a friend of mine has coined as “BYOP”, Bring Your Own Products. Buy products that you want your child to have and bring those with baby if you are dropping her off somewhere. This way Grandma can see which products you prefer. If you present her with the product, whether it be the organic yogurt you buy or the baby lotion you use and combine that presentation with a statement like “this is the only lotion I want used on little Jenny because of my concerns about the harmful chemicals that are routinely used in many baby lotions.”
Train Your KidsMy older daughter is now four years old and I have her trained about “yucky chemicals”. She knows not to eat food out of plastic that has been in the microwave. The other day at the grocery store she saw a mother with a young baby walking out of the store. The mother had handed the baby the receipt and he was crunching it up and playing with it. My daughter was distraught. She turned to me with the utmost concern and said “Mom, that baby has a receipt”. I told her it was okay and that his mommy will worry about what he does. At that moment it hit me that my constant reminders are making an impression on her. So, tell your kids what things are not good for them, like BPA-coated sales receipts. They do listen, and who knows the next time they are offered a neon purple sucker, they may just say “no thanks, I don’t like to eat chemicals.”
Pick Your Battles After you have talked with Grandma and reinforced good practices with your kids, you will still likely have times when you want to jump up and say “they can’t eat that”, or “don’t spray that sunscreen on
“Mom, The Kids Can’t Eat That!”
By Meredith Bollheimer
www.parentingplus.com Parenting Plus • February 2014 11
them”. However, there are times when you have to let things go, both for your sanity and for the sanity of those around you. There is something to be said for a balanced approach. What that proper balance is for you probably depends on a number of factors, like the age of your child(ren), any previous health problems in
your family, where you live, your fi nancial situation, how heavily you rely on others to watch your kids, how good (or bad) your relationship is with your parents or in-laws, and your own level of concern and knowledge as it relates to this topic. The unfortunate reality is that toxic chemicals are ubiquitous, they are everywhere. We
cannot possibly avoid all exposures, but it is sensible to try to help our kids avoid as many unnecessary exposures as possible.
It may take some time for Grandma to stop sighing or rolling her eyes at your requests to not put nail polish on the kids or to refrain from letting them eat canned
peaches, but at the end of the day she is on your side and wants the best for your kids, you just have to keep kindly and consistently reminding her that things are different now and that you are not making this stuff up, and that it is important to you. Bring her articles, share what you learn, make her a partner in eliminating toxins from your child’s life. Who knows, maybe this article will somehow mysteriously make its way onto Grandma’s coffee table and open up the conversation. While times have undoubtedly changed when it comes to where our food comes from and how consumer products are made, we can still rely on the most basic of human emotions to remain unchanged and that is the love and overwhelming sense of protection we feel when it comes to our offspring - both children and grandchildren.
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she is on your side and wants the best for your kids, you just have to keep kindly and consistently reminding her that things are different now and that you are not making this stuff up, and that it is important to you. Bring her articles, share what you learn, make her a partner in eliminating toxins from your child’s life. Who knows, maybe this article will somehow mysteriously make its way onto Grandma’s coffee table and open up the conversation. While times have undoubtedly changed when it comes to where our food comes from and how consumer products are made, we can still rely on the most basic of human emotions to remain unchanged and that is the love and overwhelming sense of protection we feel when it comes to our offspring - both children and grandchildren.
12 Parenting Plus • February 2014 www.parentingplus.com
Today’s families are busy. Between sports practices and schoolwork, parents are children need time to connect. Family meetings foster a sense of community between you, your spouse and your children. Whether you already hold regular family meetings or plan to start having them, make the most out of your time together by using the tips below.
RoutineRoutines are important to most aspects of life and family meetings are no exception. Having a regular place, time and fl ow of activity in your family meetings helps keep parents on track and kids focused. When children know what to expect, they are more likely to pay attention.
Pick a place where everyone is comfortable.
Hold the family meeting at a time when the children are less likely to be overtired or hungry.
After a few weeks, your meeting schedules will become second nature. Being able to anticipate the timing, the place and the schedule will allow your children to participate at the appropriate times instead of constantly asking when you are going to talk about their favorite subject.
AgendaKnow what you are going to talk about before you start. It is never fun for kids, or adults for that matter, to sit and listen to someone pontifi cate without really saying anything. If you don’t plan in advance, you may end up spinning your wheels. Having
a standard list of things you talk about each week (highlights from the previous week, upcoming events, etc.) as well as the important, timely information you need to relay will help guide you through the meeting.
Follow the same order of events each week. Start with a generic opening or prayer, have a quick dance party, discuss what happened to each individual over the course of the week, give everyone a chance to ask questions and bring up concerns and discuss the upcoming week’s events. Whatever agenda items you come up with can be incorporated into a schedule that works for your family.
Sit down with your spouse beforehand and
Effective Family Meetings: Five Ways To Make Your Time Together Better
By Beth N. Davis
www.parentingplus.com Parenting Plus • February 2014 13
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make sure that you both note things that you want to share with your children during the meeting. Have a “pre-meeting” each week to make sure you cover the bases before bringing in the kids.
Give Everyone a TurnKids like to be the center of attention. It you give everyone a turn to speak during your family meeting, your kids will get on board (if only to be the center of attention for a minute or two). Teaching your children at a young age not to talk over each other will allow your family meetings to run more smoothly and help you get the information you want to share to your kids more effectively.
Respect Your LittlesSitting for an extended period of time does not work when you have small children. If you keep this in mind when you plan out your family meetings, it will save you all a lot of headaches. Keep family meetings short at first (not exceeding fifteen minutes). As the children get older or as you have more children, you may decide that you want to spend more time on family meetings. Fifteen minutes is a good start.
Respect the inability of small children to sit quietly. Let them shake their sillies
out during the “Family Dance Party.” Immediately after opening the family meeting, cheer on each child as they bust a move in the center of the playroom. Once they have been allowed to expend some energy, they will be more willing to sit still.
Thought NuggetsGive your children an assignment or something to think about over the coming week. This will give you a point to refer back to at the beginning of your next family meeting. Let them choose a character quality to focus on, a poem to memorize or a book to read to the family the following leak. Make sure to incorporate these items into your agenda for the following week.
Family meetings will not always run perfectly, but regular family meetings build time into your schedule to talk, listen and connect with the most important people in your life. These tips will help you to plan ahead for some of the most common pitfalls families run into when they first begin the ritual.
Beth N. Davis writes from Rockville, MD where she and her husband are raising their four children.
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14 Parenting Plus • February 2014 www.parentingplus.com
Some families have no problem keeping tidy while others are constantly trying to clean up the messes. Regardless of where you stand on the neatness scale, there is always room for improvement. You can start by sitting down as a family and making a plan of how you are going to get to work. Remember to never bite off more than you can chew. “Work on one area at a time and sort items by putting like things together,” said Suzy Wilkoff, professional organizer with Tasks Unlimited and founding president of the South Florida Chapter of the National Association of Professional Organizers. Putting things in their appropriate locations as you fi nd them can be stressful. “If you are doing the home offi ce and fi nd things that belonged in your kid’s room or kitchen, get a container and deliver all those items and put them where they belong,” said Wilkoff.
Try not to become a collector. “Any organizer is going to tell you that if you have things that you do not use, you want to donate them, sell them or if they are not repairable, toss them,” said Wilkoff. For sorting, clear containers are best because you can see what is inside. “I recommend that you label the outside as broad as you want, so you may say toys or make a list on the computer with big letters of what is specifi cally in there,” said Wilkoff. For easy
identifi cation label the box on the front or sides and not on the top.
Filing systems are wonderful for paper. Successful sorting and fi ling is about setting up a routine that works for you. “Discipline yourself to work on the mail and know that the junk mail should be tossed but a credit card offer should be shred,” said Wilkoff. Some mail may have personal information that can become dangerous if put into the hands of the wrong person. “If you have bills to pay, keep them separate or go paperless and get your bills via e-mail,” said Wilkoff. If you like doing things the old-fashioned way, get a sorter to keep on top of your desk. “It should be graduating from front to back instead of horizontal where papers can get hidden,” said Wilkoff.
Sections are helpful when fi ling. “You may make a section for invitations but enter the date of the party or event on your iPhone or calendar but save the invitation until the event has passed,” said Wilkoff. Go through papers regularly so you stay on top of things and consider keeping a recreational fi le as well. “You may have a to read fi le of literature that you got in the mail from a professional association or alumni group that you do not take the time to read when it comes in,” said Wilkoff. Do
not keep things from the past in your active sorter. “You really only need to keep current insurance policies and since you are hopefully getting bank statements online, if you are still getting them on paper unless they are for income tax you can shred them,” said Wilkoff.
Kids can help. “Make it fun and do not ask a kid to organize for 2 hours, maybe 15 or 30 minutes,” said Wilkoff. The National Center for Learning Disabilities suggested that if your child works well with
technology that he uses organizer software on a computer, smartphone or tablet. He can write reminders on sticky notes or keep list pads around his room or by his desk so he can write things down as he thinks of them and then can consolidate all of the reminders on a single ‘to-do’ list everyday. If he stores homework assignments and other important papers digitally, he can transfer the documents onto a USB device that can attach to his keychain. If he prefers more space, he may enjoy using a dry-erase calendar board.
Do not be afraid to ask questions of the pros. “Check with your accountant to get direction on how long to keep fi nancial information,” said Wilkoff. If you feel overwhelmed, you can reach out to an organizer to help you design a fi ling system or help determine what to keep. “They will transfer their skills so you can maintain the system that they helped you set up,” said Wilkoff. You will want to make sure the organizer keeps everything confi dential and is insured. “Some people have had a life transition and need help, are chronically disorganized, are hoarders or need to have mental health counseling in addition to assistance with organizing,” said Wilkoff. With a good system in place for getting organized and a little discipline, you can be successful.
© 2014 Jamie Lober, author of Pink Power (http://www.getpinkpower.com), is dedicated to providing information on women’s and pediatric health topics. She can be reached at [email protected].
Clearing Clutter and Getting Organized
not keep things from not keep things from the past in your active sorter. “You really only need to keep current insurance policies and since you are hopefully getting bank statements online, if you are still getting them on paper unless they are for income tax you can shred them,” said Wilkoff.
Kids can help. “Make it fun and do not ask a kid to organize for 2 hours, maybe 15 or 30 minutes,” said Wilkoff. The National Center for Learning Disabilities suggested that if your child works well with
not keep things from the past in your active sorter. “You really only need to keep current insurance policies and since you are hopefully getting bank statements online, if you are still getting them on paper unless they are for income tax you can shred them,” said Wilkoff.
Kids can help. “Make it fun and do not ask a kid to organize for 2 hours, maybe 15 or 30 minutes,” said Wilkoff. The National Center for Learning Disabilities suggested that if your child works well with
www.parentingplus.com Parenting Plus • February 2014 15
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16 Parenting Plus • February 2014 www.parentingplus.com
As January comes to a close, many people begin thinking about jump starting their spring cleaning or keeping that New Year’s resolution to make some home improvements. Whether you fall into one of these categories, or you’re just ready to tackle some changes to your home, getting the ball rolling can sometimes be half of the battle. With home improvement shows growing in popularity, it looks easier and easier to take on large projects yourself. While TV shows and websites often provide helpful tips, they don’t send over the motivated taskmaster to really lend a hand and get things accomplished.For those who need help organizing to get things started, start multiple projects and struggle to fi nish them, or have aches and pains getting in the way of completing their visions for a more beautiful and enjoyable living space, home improvement projects may go unfi nished or be put on the back burner altogether. If you fi nd yourself throwing your hands in the air and hoping next year yields better results, neurofeedback may be able to help you move forward in your quest to get things done.What is neurofeedback?Neurofeedback helps improve the brain’s ability to self-regulate by using a brain-computer interface. It can help improve attention, motivation, anxiety, headaches, and sleep -- often dramatically.
Neurofeedback is a treatment form grounded in research. At the Center for Brain training, our neurofeedback clinicians target symptoms by training the areas of the brain associated with specifi c functions.
Some clients make excellent progress simply by using what we already know about the brain. In other cases, we use a Quantitative EEG (qEEG) brain map to guide our training protocols.
Fixing Your Brain Helps Fix Your Home
Quantitative Brain Mapping uses age-normed data to help measure and target the key brain systems that are creating difficulties. The qEEG, or “brain map”, provides a picture of what is going on in the brain and helps us tailor training. How can neurofeedback help me with my home improvement efforts?Neurofeedback helps to strengthen the brain. If there’s an excess of fast or slow brain activity, people can experience symptoms like anxiety, depressed mood, or difficulty getting motivated. These, and many other symptoms, can get in the way of things getting accomplished at work as well as in our day-to-day lives.
When it comes to doing things we may not be required to do for work, or out of necessity, we more quickly put off tasks as a result of how we’re feeling. As parents, we also tend to put other people’s needs ahead of our own. When we’re not feeling our best, it is often more difficult to get things accomplished. When the brain is more stable and working more effectively, the symptoms that might get in the way start to lift, and progress begins.
What can I expect from doing neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback is very effective at stabilizing and regulating brain function. It helps the brain change itself without medication. Changes from neurofeedback extend beyond the training period, yielding sustainable
results. Once a new brain pattern has been learned, the brain tends not to forget it, just like we don’t usually forget how to ride a bike once we’ve learned.
As your brain strengthens and is able to sustain new patterns, your symptoms, and your need to train, will decrease. As you make sustained improvements, we space out your appointments until you no longer need to continue training. As your brain improves, you’ll be better able to tackle those home improvements!
How do I get started?
When you’re ready to begin, simply contact one of our offices to schedule your appointment. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have about neurofeedback and how it might be able to help you improve your brain and your home!
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results. Once a new brain pattern has
www.parentingplus.com Parenting Plus • February 2014 17
Like many moms, I love having a clean house. Even if the kids are running around and tossing their toys all over the place, I feel so happy when I look at a gleaming kitchen with clean countertops and nice sparkling bathrooms. I’m not alone. In a recent survey from Working Mother, 68 percent of moms said they try to keep their house clean to feel more at peace.
As much as I love a clean house, however, I’m usually not very motivated to put in all the hard work and elbow grease required to make it spic and span. Instead of feeling guilty, every day I do a “general tidy.” In twenty minutes or less, I zoom around the house taking care of key tasks, so my house feels picked up and organized. After I do the general tidy, I feel the house is “good enough,” and I can move on to more fun things like taking the kids to the park or catching up with a friend over a cup of coffee.
Here’s how to tidy your own house every day in twenty minutes or less:
Be an Early BirdEven if you have to wake up twenty minutes earlier, it’s worth it to do this routine in the morning, because you will be starting off in the right frame of mind, and you can enjoy a tidy house for the rest of the day.
Let Stuff GoRemember the point is to have a house that is tidy enough to keep you feeling sane and somewhat organized. You are not trying to do a thorough cleaning every morning, so when you are in your kids’ rooms and you see the toys strewn everywhere and their desks piled with junk, resist the urge to start a major cleaning project and simply move on to the next steps of this routine.
Work From the Top DownStart in your own room and make your bed, put dirty clothes in the hamper, quickly wipe down your bathroom counters, and then move on to the other bedrooms in your house and repeat the routine.
Focus on the Family RoomOnce you’ve fi nished tidying the bedrooms, move into the family room. If there are toys all over the fl oor, pick them up and put them into bins. Target has all kinds of inexpensive, sturdy bins to help organize kids’ toys. It’s important to have smaller bins, so you can separate and organize toys into logical categories. This makes it easy for kids to fi nd what they are looking for and easy for them to pick stuff up too. Do not get a toy box! With a toy box, kids throw everything into it and then end up tossing everything out when they go hunting for a particular toy. If you have lots of magazines, put them in a bin too. The
important part of this step is to have plenty of organizing containers on hand to make picking up a breeze.
Tackle the Belly of the BeastNow, it’s time to clear the breakfast dishes, load the dishwasher, and wipe down your counters and kitchen table. In the Working Mother survey, 32 percent of moms said the kitchen is the messiest room in their house. Since the kitchen is usually the heart of the home, tidying up this room really makes a mama feel good!
Don’t Forget the Laundry and TrashEach morning check on the status of both the laundry hampers and trash bins. When they are full, throw on a load of laundry and take out the trash.
Work up a SweatRace around your house and try to do the routine as fast as possible. It’s a win-win situation when you can get your heart rate up a little and quickly move on with your day.
Make it a Family AffairIn the Working Mother survey, 73 percent of moms said they are the ones in their family to pick up around the house at the end of the day. Just because your name is mom, why should you do all the tidying up? Enlist your spouse and kids to help out with different parts of the routine. For example, your husband might be in charge of laundry and trash duty, while your kids can make their beds and pick up their toys.
Seize the Day!Now that your house is tidy, you can go and conquer the more interesting and important items on your daily agenda. When you come home later in the day, you will walk into a house that is picked up and fairly organized. It may not be sparkling, but at least it’s not a mess, and you might just fi nd that’s enough to give you that peaceful feeling.
With two young children and a giant Bernese Mountain Dog who sheds like crazy, Laura Lane developed the general tidy routine to maintain her sanity.
Twenty Minutes to a Clean Twenty Minutes to a Clean Twenty Minutes to a Clean House & A Happy MomHouse & A Happy MomHouse & A Happy Mom
By Laura Lane
18 Parenting Plus • February 2014 www.parentingplus.com
Valentine’s Day is February 14. Hey, Mattie, could I just vow my love for you here and skip romancing you with gifts and poems? I love you! Will you be my Valentine? I already know your answer, “Try a little harder.” Oh well, it was worth a shot.
Each year, I romance Mattie on the days leading up to Valentine’s Day. She fi nally gives in and consents to be my Valentine near midnight on February 14. For the past couple of years, Jessie has helped me convince her mom that
I’m a great choice for a Valentine so Mattie has caved in a few hours earlier than usual. It never hurts to have a little extra help.
Thinking of love reminds me of my wonderful neighbors in South Carolina. Mattie and I got caught in the real estate downturn. After six years, we fi nally sold our house this past July. Though we moved in 2007, our South Carolina neighbors, Jack and Louise, Mike, Sue, Joe and Peggy, and Tarina, continued to shower us with love.
Jack and Louise lived next door. Jack let realtors, prospective buyers, and repairmen into the house. He replaced light bulbs. From time to time he e-mailed pictures, such as our tulips blooming in the spring, a beautiful snowfall, and, once, pictures of a tree that fell on our garage. I enjoyed the tulip pictures
a whole lot more. Louise shared several delicious meals with me during my trips to take care of the house.
Mike owns a nearby tennis club. During one of my trips, I mentioned to him that I was going to take my weight set back with me. To my surprise, he showed up at my house a few minutes later to help me dissemble and load it onto my truck.
Sue babysat two-year-old Jessie the day the moving truck came. Mattie and I furiously fi nished packing and the
moMENtsExpressions of LovemoMENtsExpressions of Love
truck was loaded while Jessie got her fi ngernails painted for the fi rst time. Two summers ago, Sue entertained Jessie by feeding fi sh in the lake with bread in between her toes, something I wasn’t about to do.
Joe happened to be driving by when we got locked out of our house a few days after we bought it. In his truck, he had both a phone book and a cell phone, which we used to call the locksmith. That’s when we started calling him “Angel Joe.” Joe’s wife, Peggy, never missed an opportunity to watch Jessie when we were in town.
Although our neighbors have always been wonderful, when I pulled in the driveway for a visit two years ago, I couldn’t believe what I saw. Tarina had planted pansies and daises in our fl ower beds at her own expense and had been watering them regularly. This is the same Tarina who came to our house at midnight when Jessie came down with her fi rst ear infection. She didn’t leave until Jessie was resting comfortably.We teach Jessie that it is better to give than to receive. We have been blessed to be surrounded by cheerful givers, people who express love through kind deeds and know how to make any day feel like Valentine’s Day.
Expressions of love make the world a better place. Not to mention, they may help you snag a Valentine. Mattie, will you be my Valentine yet? Heck, it didn’t hurt to give it one more try.
Until next month, remember to cherish the moments.
Patrick L. Hemp� ng
Expressions of Love
www.parentingplus.com Parenting Plus • February 2014 19
WellFest is a trademarked name and can’t be used without permission. WellFestDelray 2014 is an event managed by LP Event Marketing, LLC with offices in Delray Beach, Florida
WellFest™ Expo: Exhibitors will offer their expertise on every-thing that relates to your total well-being, including a holistic approach to better wellness, nutritional advice, enhanced skincare, and the mind/body connection.
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WellFest™ Eat Well Food CourtWatch some of Delray’s Celebrity Chefs perform their magic, while you enjoy free samples, get cooking tips, and speak to experts about diet choices from gluten-free to organic. Healthy juices too!
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20 Parenting Plus • February 2014 www.parentingplus.com
Saturday February 1
Free Family Story TimeDowntown Library 561-393-7968200 NW Boca Raton Blvd. Boca Raton 8:00 am. Downtown Library.
Save the Panther 5K 561-533-0887Palm Beach Zoo1301 Summit Blvd. West Palm Beach7:30 am. Run to help Palm Beach Zoo in the eff ort to save our state animal, the Florida panther. The fi rst 500 runners registered will get a great t-shirt featuring one of the Zoo’s resident panthers! Your run will take you through beautiful Dreher Park and select areas of the Zoo, ending in the Zoo’s Fountain Plaza! The Save the Panther 5K is presented by Sagicor Insurance. Race Day Price: Adult 18+: $40, Youth: $25
Chi Gung/Tai Chi/Meditation for girls and women over age 13. 561-585-2700Gold Coast Gymnastics, Inc.1420 Rupp Lane Lake Worth8-9 am. Gentle, natural, movement, breathing, stretching for women only, age 13-adult.No experience necessary. Can be 6 weeks postpartum, breast feeding ok, not for pregnant women. $12 or $6 if student. Saturdays
Green Market In Boynton Beach At The S.E. Corner of Boynton Beach Blvd and US 1 Our Market is comprised of and run by a select group of artisan creators; making uniquely delicious products that you will not fi nd anywhere else. We are a group of individuals who’s main goal is to provide a pleasurable and fun shopping experience. We are also dedicated to selling only the best quality local, sustainable, and freshest quality products and produce. Keeping a “Family of Vendors” is something we strive to do. As vendors ourselves, we created a market where we can strive to grow our business’ and keep consistency for our customers. We are pleased
to have a market fi lled with wonderful products and friendly vendors. We cannot wait to share it with you. Please come to our market to see just how diff erent it is and how much you’ve been missing.
Wellngton Green Market 561-283-585612300 Forest Hill Blvd. Wellington9:00 am-1:00 pm. Find varirty of locally grown and produced plants, fruits, vegetables, prepared-foods, homemade and gourmet goods!
Swamp Tromp Grassy Waters 561-804-49858264 Northlake Blvd West Palm Beach 9 am – 11 am. Get off the boardwalk and into the swamp! Get your feet wet as we explore the mysteries of the Everglades while hiking through our pristine cypress swamp. Ages 10 and over. $10/Adult, $4/Child. Reservations Required.
Free Fitness On Saturdays 561-393-7040Zumba & Yoga 9:00 am - YOGA at Sanborn Square, 72 N Federal Highway Boca Raton10:30 am - ZUMBA, South Beach Pavilion at Palmetto Park Road and A1A “Free” shape up fi tness classes from Yoga and Zumba to Pilates and others EVERY Saturday morning at Sanborn Square and the South Beach Pavilion. Contact: Nicole Gasparri. Email: [email protected]
Nature Walk Green Cay 561-966-700012800 Hagen Ranch Rd. Boynton Beach Guided, 1/2 mile, boardwalk tours. Every Saturday at 9:00 am & 11:00 am and Wednesday at 3:00 pm. FREE!! No reservations required, sign in at the front desk
Build a Bird Feeder! Build. Learn. Create. Have Fun With Kids Workshops!9:00 a.m. – 12:00. FREE hands-on workshops designed for children ages 5 - 12 off ered the 1st Saturday of every month at all The Home Depot stores. Workshops teach children do-it-yourself skills, tool safety and instill a
sense of pride and accomplishment. All kids get to keep their craft and receive a FREE Kids Workshop Apron, commemorative pin and certifi cate of achievement. Regstration Required
Story Time 561-792-1292Barnes & Noble10500 West Forest Hill Blvd. Wellington10 am – 11 am. Come and discover the wonderful books that are off ered in the children’s department of Barnes & Noble. Join us for this weekly storytime. Free
Story Time at Green Cay Nature Center 561-966-700012800 Hagen Ranch Road Boynton Beach10:00 AM - 11:00 AM. Ages 3-5, Join us monthly as we read stories, have learning time, and make crafts about animals and other nature-related themes! Topics will vary each month. $2 per child
Hammock Trails 561-544-8605Gumbo Limbo Nature Center1801 N. Ocean Blvd Boca Raton 10-11:30 a.m. Join us for a FREE guided walk on our quarter-mile long boardwalk. Explore this rare remnant of coastal hardwood hammock, and get a glimpse of the past. All ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult. No reservations required. Meet at the boardwalk entrance. Free
Learn to Kayak 561-624-6952John D. MacArthur Beach State Park 10900 Jack Nicklaus Dr. North Palm Beach 10:00 a.m. (about 1 hour) Representatives from Adventure Times Kayaks will teach a land-based course that gives beginners the skills necessary for kayaking. Reservations are recommended. The program is free with park admission. For information and reservations call the Nature Center.
Mini-CanoeingGrassy Waters 561-804-49858264 Northlake Blvd West Palm Beach 10am – 11am. New to canoeing or short on time? Try this 1-hour canoe trip! Ages 6 and up. $6/adult, $2/child. Reservations Required.
Trolley Tour 561-279-8883Spady Cultural Heritage Museum170 NW 5th Ave. Delray Beach 10 am - 12 pm. The Spady Museum’s “Ride & Remember” Trolley Tour, one of the museum’s most popular programs, is now entering its seventh year of showcasing the best of Delray Beach to tourists and residents. Cost is $20 per person. To reserve a spot call.
Little Wonders 561-544-8615Gumbo Limbo Nature Center1801 N. Ocean Blvd Boca Raton
CALENDARFocusFebruary 2014
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10-10:45 a.m. Take this opportunity to introduce your novice naturalist to the plant and animal communities all around them, through hikes for little feet, crafts for tiny fingers, stories for growing minds. Ages 3 & 4 with an adult. Prepayment required Cost per child: Member $5, Non-member $8
Animal Feedings 561-233-1400Okeeheelee Park 7715 Forest Hill Blvd. West Palm BeachEvery Saturday, 11 am and 12 pm. Join us at 11 am for our Fish Feeding Frenzy, and at 12 pm for our Reptile Feedings. Staff will give a short talk about the critters as they eat. Feel free to ask questions! Families / All Ages, FREE (Reservations NOT Required)
Wildlife Encounter Busch Wildlife Sanctuary 561-575-33992500 Jupiter Park Drive Jupiter11:00am Wildlife Encounter Program(Cypress Amphitheater) again at 2:30. Free
Hatchling Tales: Children’s Story TimeLoggerhead Marinelife Center 561-627-828014200 U.S. Hwy 1 Juno Beach 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM. Join us every Saturday at 11:30 am for a Free kid’s story time held just outside our gift shop featuring selected readings that we will have available for purchase. FREE!
Habit Hunt 561- 544-8615Gumbo Limbo Nature Center1801 N. Ocean Blvd Boca Raton11 am-Noon. Hike around Gumbo Limbo’s property. Learn about the different habitats there, and make a nature journal with your findings. Ages 7-11. Adults must sign-in children, but do not have to stay. Reservations and prepayment required at least 24 hours in advance. Cost per child: Member $8 Non-member $12
Loggerhead Marinelife Center 561-627-828014200 U.S. Hwy 1 Juno Beach 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM. Dr. Logger is an educational ambassador for sea turtles. Through an interactive show, Dr. Logger educates the audience on the life of a sea turtle, by addressing various topics: threats, nesting, anatomy, lifestyle, etc. This 30 minute show is for guests of all ages, it’s interactive with the audience and fast paced. Dr. Logger looks forward to talking turtle with you on your next visit to the Loggerhead Marinelife Center. For children up to 12. Free.
Raptor Ecology 561-233-1400Okeeheelee Park 7715 Forest Hill Blvd. West Palm Beach1 pm. Families prepare to be amazed as
you’re introduced to residen birds of prey at Okeeheelee Park. See these birds up close and develop an appreciation for their role in the environment. / All Ages, $3/person (Reservations Required)
Wildlife Encounter Busch Wildlife Sanctuary 561-575-33992500 Jupiter Park Drive Jupiter3:00pm. Wildlife Encounter Program(Cypress Amphitheater) Also, Saturday at 11:00 & 2:30. Free
Junior Naturalist 561-544-8615Gumbo Limbo Nature Center1801 N. Ocean Blvd Boca Raton1-2:30 pm. Spend some time outside this fall! It’s a great time of year to be a junior birdwatcher looking for birds, or planting fall flowers in the garden while observing the insects nearby. Ages 7-11. Adults must sign-in children, but do not have to stay. Reservations and prepayment required at least 24 hours in advance (561) 544-8615. No refunds. Cost per child: Member $7 Non-member $10
Pocahontas 561-394-2626 Showtime Performing Arts Theatre503 SE Mizner Blvd., Boca Raton2:00 pm. In this musical adventure, young and brave Pocahontas is torn between her Native American tradition and romance with an English soldier when English colonists invade 17th Century Virginia. Beautiful music by Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz includes Colors of the Wind. Also, February 8, 15 & 22
Les Miserable 561-394-2626 Showtime Performing Arts Theatre503 SE Mizner Blvd., Boca RatonTeen & Young Adult Production2/1 & 2/8 2014 @ 8Pm. Sun. 2/2 & 2/9 2014 @ 2Pm.
Parents Night Out 561-998-42256500 W. Rogers Cir #1000 Boca Raton6:00 pm - 10:30 pm. Better than finding a babysitter! Our Parent’s Night Out program offers gymnastics, movies, and more to keep your kids entertained while you enjoy a well deserved break! Just call ahead of time and drop your kids off for a supervised, non-instructional fun time! Please be sure to call us before coming to drop your child off.
Les Miserable 561-394-2626 Showtime Performing Arts Theatre503 SE Mizner Blvd., Boca RatonTeen & Young Adult Production2/1 & 2/8 2014 @ 8Pm. Sun. 2/2 & 2/9 2014 @ 2:00 pm..
Sunday February 2 Ground Hog Day
Gardens Summer GreenMarket at STORE 561.630.110010500 N Military Tr. Palm Beach Gardens 8:00am - 1:00pm. The City of Palm Beach Gardens is pleased to announce the Gardens GreenMarket has moved to the STORE Self Storage Facility for the summer season. The market will still offer wonderful produce, flowers, plants, breads, seafood, bakery items, cheeses, sauces, and much more! We look forward to seeing you there. For vendor questions please call 561-630-1146.
3rd Annual Scripps Kid’s Fun Splash & Dash Charity “Biathlon” 561-248-7217PGA National Resort & Spa 9:30 am. This is the third year of fundraising to benefit cancer research programs at Scripps Florida in Jupiter, whereby all proceeds fund the WCAD Postdoctoral Fellowships in the Department of Cancer Biology. To learn more about the 9th Annual PGA National Women’s Cancer Awareness Days and all of their scheduled events contact Elaine Solomon at 561.317.9121 or [email protected].
RPB Green Market & Bazaar 561-792-9260Commons Park Royal Palm Beach9 a.m.-1 p.m. Shoppers can spend a beautiful day outside with family and friends and connect with your community and support locally grown and organic vendors. Enjoy a stroll through the park as you shop the many selections of produce ranging from fruits, vegetables, arts & crafts, fresh flowers, baked goods, pastries, herbs & spices, and a bazaar twist to your traditional Green Market. All applicants interested in being a vendor may visit www.pottcevents.com.
Newbie Canoe 561-804-4985Grassy Waters Preserve West Palm Beach10:00 am. New to canoeing? Then you’re a newbie! Whether you’ve never been in a canoe before or it’s just been awhile, this short trip is a great place to start! Learn the basics and then put your new skills to the test on an easy paddle through the Everglades. Bring a hat, sunscreen and water. Ages: 6 and over (with participating adult) Fee: $6/adult, $2/child
Boomers Green Market 561-929-02373100 Airport Rd Boca Raton11am – 4pm. Boomers will be offering great specials for gaming, and fun for that day only plus 60 plus vendors will be displaying and selling their goods and services to the masses. One of south Florida’s best attractions for families and kids has created the biggest green market and business expo anywhere in the southern palm beach area. For information contact, questions and issues with this event, please contact [email protected] o.Free Family Fest Dance & Music Mania
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CityPlace West Palm Beach1:00-4:00. Kid’s karaoke, Play different types ofinstruments, Live dance & singingperformances. Enjoy face painting,bounce house & games, DJ dance party.
Bluegrass Music 561-624-6952John D. MacArthur Beach State Park 10900 Jack Nicklaus Dr. North Palm Beach1 -4:00 p.m. Bill Rich and the “Untold Riches” bring their foot-stompin’ and hand-clappin’ bluegrass music to the Park’s Amphitheater. Just sit back and enjoy the music in Palm Beach County’s most beautiful setting. The concert is free with park admission of $5.00 per carload. For more information call the Ranger Station at (561) 624-6950.
Special Needs Family Fun Night! Cool Beans Story Time 561-627-178211701 Lake Victoria Gardens Ave#3115 Palm Beach Gardens6 – 8 PM. Join the fun on Sunday, September15th, from 6-8 pm for our Special Needs Family Fun Night! All children receive 50% off admission. This is a great opportunity to socialize with other families, make new friends, and share-parenting techniques within the special needs community. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Socks are required for BOTH adults and children!
Monday February 3
Mommy & Me 561-776-8252The Hebrew AcademyUS Highway 1 Juno Beach9:00- 10:00 am. Creative Movement & Kinder Dance. Please RSVP to save your seat. $5/ Session (Donation), Snack and Drink included.
Mommy & Me Swimboree British Swim School 561-855-70433141 Fortune Way, Uniits 21-22 WellingtonEvery Monday from 9am-10am. $15 a class call for reservations.
Kids’ Music Circle 561-584-2290Lake Worth Public LibraryCity Hall Annex Bldg414 Lake Avenue Lake Worth5:30-6:30 pm. Parents and children sing, dance, and make music together led by song leader Noam Brown on the 2nd Monday of every month. Join us for a potluck following the music circle. Visit www.kidsmusiccircle.com FREE
Tuesday February 4
Gumbo Limbo Nature Center1801 N. Ocean Blvd Boca Raton
10-11 a.m. Join us for a guided walk on our quarter-mile long boardwalk. Explore this rare remnant of coastal hardwood hammock, and get a glimpse of the past. All ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult. No reservations required. Meet at the boardwalk entrance. Free
Tuesday Mommy & Me Tadpole Water Survival 561-792-65953141 Fortune Way Wellington9am we are offering a Mommy & Me Tadpole class. Join through wellington-wef.com and get a discount. Call for reservations or pay $15 at the door. Feel free to bring a friend. This is a beginner class for water survival-so your kids will learn to float on their backs. We are an indoor heated pool (92 degrees) so come rain or shine! Every Tuesday. Parent assisted class.
Chickee Chat 561-747-8380 x101500 Captain Armour’s Way Jupiter10:00 AM - 10:45 AM. Attention Kids: Join us under the Lighthouse Chickee for storytime & craft activity about Lighthouse Keepers, Florida History and People & local Plants and Animals. Moms & Dads, this is ideal for kids ages 10 and under. Please bring a small beach/picnic mat for your child. Program is free, space is limited, runs approximately 45 minutes, weather permitting, RSVP required.
Dress-Up Tuesdays! Super Heroes & Princesses TuesdayCool Beans 561-627-178211701 Lake Victoria Gardens Ave #3115 Palm Beach GardensTwo Tuesdays of each month will be themed dress-up days with so much cuteness we might not be able to take it! If you dress up in or wear something reflective of the special theme, admission is just $5 per child! Don’t have a costume? Pick up tutus, pirates, princess and super hero costumes perfect for each occasion in our gift boutique.
Hammock Trails 561-544-8605Gumbo Limbo Nature Center1801 N. Ocean Blvd Boca Raton10-11:30 a.m. Join us for a FREE guided walk on our quarter-mile long boardwalk. Explore this rare remnant of coastal hardwood hammock, and get a glimpse of the past. All ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult. No reservations required. Meet at the boardwalk entrance
Family Storytime with Mr. J @ your City Library 561-868-7703 Mandel Public Library West Palm Beach10:30 am. Families, join Mr. J on Tuesdays and Wednesdays in June and July for stories, songs, crafts and fun! Ages PreK - 3rd grade. No registration. Join us in the auditorium. Call
for more information. Free
Gardens Gymnastics at the JMandel JCC 561-689-7700This nonstop gymnastics class will keep your kids flippin’ head over heals. 3 and 4 year olds The fundamentals for gymnastics (and all sports) are developed as children improve their skills on various gymnastics equipment. In a class filled with laughter, your child will develop self confidence while experiencing the joys of gymnastics. Located in the new, beautiful Mandel JCC in Palm Beach Gardens. Classes taught by Ms. Patti and Ms Liz. Please call for class times and fees.
Tae Kwon Do 561-367-7035James A. Rutherford Community CenterPatch Reef Park 2000 W. Yamato Road Boca Raton Tae Kwon Do For Children Ages 6-9 Tuesdays/Thursdays, 6:30 7:30 pm. Saturdays 9:30 –11:00 am. Learn the art of self-defense, discipline, self-confidence, self respect, respect for others and get a great workout with this Korean martial art.
Owl Feeding 561-629-8760Daggerwing Nature Center11200 Park Access Road Boca Raton3:15-3:30pm. Gather round the owl enclosure in the Daggerwing Nature Center exhibit hall and get a short talk about our Eastern Screech Owl while she is given her food. Feel free to ask questions! Families and all ages, FREE - No reservations needed. Every Tuesday during the summer.
Walk and Talk: Women from the HeartRoyal Palm Place 561-251-41645:30 pm – 6:30 pm. Come Right from work, kick off the heels for comfy shoes, meet other women while we walk and talk around Royal Palm Place. Join Sheree Thomas, South Florida’s Lifestyle fitness coach, and window shop while we walk. Learn healthier choices from the Restaurant Menus and receive discounts for the healthier meal choices. All fitness levels are welcome. For more information, contact Sheree. Every Tuesday.
Dress-Up Tuesdays! Pirates & Tutus TuesdayCool Beans 561-627-178211701 Lake Victoria Gardens Ave #3115 Palm Beach GardensTwo Tuesdays of each month will be themed dress-up days with so much cuteness we might not be able to take it! If you dress up in or wear something reflective of the special theme, admission is just $5 per child! Don’t have a costume? Pick up tutus, pirates, princess and super hero costumes perfect for each occasion in our gift boutique.
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Cool Beans 561-627-178211701 Lake Victoria Gardens Ave #3115 Palm Beach GardensBig Brother Big Sister Play, Every Tuesday for all children up to 10 years old. Regular admission and rules apply.
Wednesday February 5
Young Artwork 561-367-7035James A. Rutherford Community CenterPatch reef park 2000 W. Yamato Road Boca Raton3:30-4:15pm. Ages 4-6, 4:30-5:15pm. Ages 2-3. Children experiment and discover art through colors, shapes, textures and forms and will have a blast making their own masterpieces.
Beach Teasures 561- 544-8615Gumbo Limbo Nature Center1801 N. Ocean Blvd Boca Raton9-10:30 am. Limpets & topsnails are a few of the shells you can fi nd on Florida’s beaches. Meet at the Center to learn about seashells and the animals that make them. Caravan to Red Reef Beach Park and search for ocean treasures. All ages. An adult must sign-up and participate with children. Reservations and prepayment required at least 24 hours in advance Cost per person: Member $5, Non-member $8.
Story Time Busch Wildlife Sanctuary 561-575-33992500 Jupiter Park Drive Jupiter9:30am Story Time for Toddlers. (Cypress Amphitheater) Free.
Guided Hammock Walk 561- 544-8615Gumbo Limbo Nature Center1801 N. Ocean Blvd Boca Raton 10 -noon. Join us for a guided walk on our elevated quarter-mile long boardwalk. Discover the hidden treasures of the coastal forest and mangrove swamp as you search for the unique plants and animals that call these rare habitats “home”! Meet at the boardwalk entrance. No reservations. All ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Free
Hatchling Tales: Children’s Story TimeLoggerhead Oceanfront Park 561-627-828014200 U.S. Hwy 1 Juno Beach 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM. Every Wednesday bring your “hatchlings” for ocean inspired stories, crafts, and more. Storytimes are wonderful opportunities for our youngest audiences to enjoy books, music, and group activities right here at LMC. Hatchling Tales are FREE, open to the public, no pre-registration.
Toddler Storytime 561-868-7703
West Palm Beach Public Library 411 Clematis Street West Palm Beach 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM & 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM. Join Ms. Jeanne every Wednesday to nurture a love of books; learn rhymes, sounds, and new words. Enjoy musical activities! Ages, 2 - 3 years. Registration required. Free
Guided Kayak Tours 561-624-6952John D. MacArthur Beach State Park 10900 Jack Nicklaus Dr. North Palm Beach 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Rent one of our single or double kayaks and explore the estuary. Manatees, great blue herons and osprey are some of the wildlife you will see. Hourly, half day and full day rates are available. Call the Nature Center at (561) 624-6952 for more details.
Hammock Trails 561-544-8615Gumbo Limbo Nature Center 1801 North Ocean Blvd. Boca Raton10 am-Noon. All ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Join us for a guided walk on our 0.3 mile long boardwalk. Explore this rare remnant of coastal hardwood hammock, and get a glimpse of the past. No reservations required. Meet at the boardwalk entrance. Free
Toddler Storytime 561-868-7703 West Palm Beach Public Library 411 Clematis Street West Palm Beach 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM & 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM. Join Ms. Jeanne every Wednesday to nurture a love of books; learn rhymes, sounds, and new words. Enjoy musical activities! Ages, 2 - 3 years. Registration required. Free
Amazing Art 561-742-6780Schoolhouse Children’s Museum & Learning Center 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM Students will learn and create many diff erent forms of art. From murals to clay information, this class will bring your inner artist out! 2-4 years. $2.50 Members $3.50 Non-Members
Character Wednesday Cool Beans 561-627-178211701 Lake Victoria Gardens Ave #3115 Palm Beach Gardens3pm-5pm. Enjoy visits from all of your favorite costume characters (Minnie, Mickey,
Pixar characters, Princesses, etc.) arrive in the playground to greet the children.
Family Tu B’ Shvat Dinner/Seder 561-712-5237 Mandel JCC of the Palm Beaches5221 Hood Road Palm Beach Gardens5:30-7:30pm. Join the community in celebrating the “new year” for trees at our Family Tu B’ Shvat Dinner/Seder. We will be sampling the fruits and seven species of Tu B’ Shvat along with fun activities for children of all ages. $12 for Adults; $8 for children 12 and under. For more information, please contact Krisztina Ergas at [email protected] or register online at jcconline.com/familyevent.
Learning & the Brain: What the Brain Can Teach Itself 561-206-27067301 W Palmetto Park RdSuite 102A Boca Raton7:00 pm. Join us for a free educational presentation discussing the brain’s capacity to change itself. Learn about your child’s brain, how it functions, and how to improve the way it performs without using medications.Neurofeedback is a non-invasive behavioral technique that trains the brain, and is successfully used with both children and adults. Join us for a discussion of how and why it works. Training your brain with neurofeedback can help you reduce reliance on medication and overcome problems such as: ADD & ADHD, Learning & Behavior Problems, Anxiety & Depression, Sleep Disorders, Migraines & Obsessive Thoughts.
Sunset Tour 561-747-8380 Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum500 Captain Armour’s Way Jupiter7:30 PM - 8:15 PM. Take in the spectacular sunset views and witness the Jupiter Light turning on to illuminate the night sky. Visitors get an inside look at the nuts & bolts of a working lighthouse watchroom. Tour time approximately 75 minutes, $15 Members,
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$20 Non-Members, RSVP required. Tours are weather permitting, call for tour time. Children must be be at least 4ft. tall to climb.
Thursday February 6
Story time 561-233-1400Okeeheelee Park 7715 Forest Hill Blvd. West Palm Beach10-10:30 am. Ages 2-5, $2/child, Introduce your little ones to Mother Nature through nature-based stories! Class activities may include live animals, games, nature. Reservations Required.
Kids Story TimeBurt Reynolds Park East 561-743-7123805 N US Highway 1 Jupiter9:30 a.m. the River Center hosts a FREE children’s Starfish & Coffee Story Time. This program is designed for kids ages 0 to 7 years. Story Time includes book readings, songs, and an interaction with the touch tank animals. No RSVP required. This program occurs every Thursday morning.
Gardens Gymnastics at the JMandel JCC 561-689-7700Introduce your Little ones to Gymnastics. (1-3 years old) This exciting class is filled with Singing, Jumping, Climbing, individualized Gymnastics attention, parachute play, bubbles and more. Located in the new, beautiful Mandel JCC, located in Palm Beach Gardens. Classes taught by Ms, Patti and Ms. Liz. Please call for class times and fees
Free Game PlayJoey’s Outback Adventure 561-204-455410670 W Forest Hill Blvd WellingtonFree game play Thursdays • redemption games excluded. Admission under 3 $10.95 3-12 $12.95 All arcade games and rides are free to play all day! Every Thursday.
Food Truck Invasion 561-283-5856The Wellington Amphitheater 12100 Forest Hill Boulevard Wellington5:00 pm - 10:00 pm. Food Trucks Attending: BC Tacos, Best French Fries, Big Mike’s BBQ, The Big Ragu, Che Grill, Crazydilla, Dolce Gourmet Cupcakes, Fry Daddy, Grill Master Cafe, Joji Yogurt, The Loaded Burger, Lucilles on Wheels, The Philly Grill, Stocked N LoadedTaco Fresh. A weekly Food Truck event on some Thursday nights at the Wellington Amphitheater.
Green Market 561-630-11074301 Burns Road Palm Beach Gardens5:30-9:00 pm. NEW! Spend your Thursday evenings with the City of Palm Beach Gardens under the beautiful Florida sky. Come and enjoy live music and shop for prepared food
and drink items, plants, flowers, produce and handmade crafts. Bring your whole family and don’t miss what is sure to become a Gardens tradition! Rain or Shine event. FREE
Clematis by Night 561-822-1515 Centennial Square West Palm Beach 6:00 PM - 9:30 PM. Clematis by Night is the area’s Hot Spot to Chill every Thursday night in downtown West Palm Beach. Clematis by Night is the place to be for great music, a taste of mouth-watering foods, and sidewalk shopping of the trendiest items around. Free.
Children’s Library Preschool Story Time Society of the Four Arts2 Four Arts Plaza Palm Beach10:30 am. Free story time.
Friday February 7
Tot Time at Sugar Sand 561-347-3900300 S. Military Trail Boca Raton10am-12pm. Crafts, snacks, and indoor play stations. No registration required. Ages 2-5. $5 per child, walk – up.
Playdate 561-482-3412Sunflower Creative Arts10:30 am – 12 pm. Bring your children for a monthly playdate at a local park. Director Susan Caruso will lead parents in a discussion of current parenting topics and concerns. All ages. Every Friday. Free
Mommy, Mother Nature and Me! Daggerwing Nature Center 561-629-876011435 Park Access Road Boca Raton10:30 am. Introduce your little ones to Mother Nature and explore colors in nature! Then paint to explore primary and secondary colors. Please wear clothes appropriate for messy painting. Reservations Required
Family Fun Fridays!!! 561-968-0009Monkey Joe’s6250 Lantana Rd., Bay 18 Lake Worth10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Change your Friday night routine or make it your tradition to spend Fridays with us for a great deal! You get admission for 2 children, a cheese pizza pie and a pitcher of soda for only $24.99! Every Friday.
Beginning Tai-Chi @ your City Library 561-868-7703 Mandel Public Library West Palm Beach11:00 am. Come to the library for an introduction to tai-chi. Learn the benefits of tai-chi and how it can relax, energize & balance you! Beginning Tai-chi lessons will be held every Friday morning at 11:00AM in the library’s Auditorium. Optional donations accepted by instructor at time of class. For more information contact the library. Free. Donations accepted.
Tot Time Sugar Sand Park Community Center 561-347-3900300 S. Military Trail Boca Raton10 am- 12 pm. Ages 2-5. Children will enjoy crafts, snacks, and indoor play stations. Drop in any time during the program. $5
Baby Storytime 561-868-7703West Palm Beach Public Library 411 Clematis Street West Palm Beach 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM & 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM. Join Ms. Judy every Friday to delight and stimulate your baby’s senses with books and music. Ages, 12 – 24 months. Reg. required. Free
Kids Story TimeBurt Reynolds Park East 561-743-7123805 N US Highway 1 Jupiter9:30 a.m. the River Center hosts a FREE children’s Starfish & Coffee Story Time. This program is designed for kids ages 0 to 7 years. Story Time includes book readings, songs, and an interaction with the touch tank animals. No RSVP required. This program occurs every Thursday morning.
Story Time 561-233-1400Okeeheelee Park 7715 Forest Hill Blvd. West Palm Beach10-10:30 am. Ages 2-5, $2/childIntroduce your little ones to Mother Nature through nature-based stories! Class activities may include live animals, games, nature walks and/or crafts specifically designed for toddlers and preschoolers! Topic varies for each class. Reservations Required
Friday Films: Diana Vreeland: The Eye Has to Travel 561-655-7226Society of the Four Arts2 Four Arts Plaza Palm Beach2:30, 5:15 & 8:00 pm. $5; no charge for members (membership card required)
Fun Fridays Cool Beans 561-627-178211701 Lake Victoria Gardens Ave #3115 Palm Beach Gardens Come celebrate every Friday with us for Fun Friday! Each week at 3:00 pm, a different activity promoting learning, imagination, physical activity and more will be taking place at Cool Beans. These are classes you don’t want to miss! $14.95 includes all-day admission or $6 for the class only. Encouraging creativity through fun! Call Cool Beans Indoor Playground & Cafe to register.
Skunk Feeding 561-629-8760 Daggerwing Nature Center 11200 Park Access Road Boca Raton Every Friday 3:15-3:30 pm. Families and all ages, FREE - No reservations needed. Come into the nature center classroom and get a short talk about one our Striped Skunk, George, while she is being fed. Feel free to ask
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questions!
Free Movie Night The Wolverine (PG-13) 561-283-5856The Wellington Amphitheater 12100 Forest Hill Boulevard Wellington7:30 pm. Please bring seating!
Screen on the Green 561-868-7703 Waterfront West Palm Beach8:00 pm. Bring your blankets and chairs down to the waterfront and don’t forget the kids for our family friendly movie the 2nd Friday of every month. Go to our website at www.wpb.org for more information or call.
Saturday February 8 Beach Clean-up 561-624-6952John D. MacArthur Beach State Park 10900 Jack Nicklaus Dr. North Palm Beach9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Show that you care about the marine environment by helping to keep it free of litter. Trash bags and gloves will be provided to those who attend. Community service hours will be provided for school aged participants. For more information call Park Specialist Art at (561) 776-7449, ext. 109.
Story Time 561-792-1292Barnes & Noble10500 West Forest Hill Blvd. Wellington10 am – 11 am. Come and discover the wonderful books that are offered in the children’s department of Barnes & Noble. Join us for this weekly storytime. Free Dog Tales @ your City Library 561-868-7703 Mandel Public Library West Palm Beach10:30 am. Meet our specially trained therapy dogs that will “listen” to your child read! This is an awesome way to get your reluctant reader to read! Sign-in upon arrival. Sponsored by the Scaife Family Foundation and the WPB Library Foundation. Join us in KidSpace. Free
Creating A Backyard HabitatOkeeheelee Park 561-233-14007715 Forest Hill Blvd. West Palm Beach 1:00 pm. Families / All Ages, $3/person (Reservations Required – Call 561-233-1400)Do you enjoy watching wildlife and want to attract animals to your home? Come to this class and learn tips that will help you enhance your yard and make it more appealing to wildlife.
Treasure Hunt Cool Beans 561-627-178211701 Lake Victoria Gardens Ave#3115 Palm Beach Gardens3 – 4 pm. Argh! Everyone loves to find treasure. This family bonding experience will allow everyone to follow the clues to the
special prize. Families will have to complete tasks to get to the next level. Once all tasks are completed, a special prize awaits you! Cost is $14.95 per child includes all day admission to playground & class participation. If you wish just to join us for the class only that day, the cost is $6. Encouraging creativity through fun! Call to register
Wetlands & Wildlife 561-544-8615Gumbo Limbo Nature Center 1801 North Ocean Blvd. Boca Raton 3-5 pm. Wakodahatchee is a man-made wetland which has become a favorite for birders and photographers. Bring your binoculars and join us for a ¾ mile guided boardwalk tour to learn more about Florida’s wetland ecosystems. Meet at the boardwalk’s entrance (call for directions). Reservations required at least 24 hours in advance. Ages 7-adult. An adult must sign-up and participate with children. Free
The Seldom Scene, progressive bluegrass performers 561-904-3139The Borland Center for Performing Arts, Midtown at the Gardens4885 PGA Boulevard Palm Beach Gardens7:00 p.m. Grammy nominated The Seldom Scene began in the early 1970’s as progressive bluegrass reached a peak in popularity. The vocal blend of The Scene set a new standard that attracted new audiences to what had been considered niche music. Their weekly shows included bluegrass versions of country music, rock, and even classical pop. Think Mumford & Sons! The band’s popularity soon forced them to play more than once a week—but they continued to maintain their image as being seldom seen, and on several of their early album covers were photographed with the stage lights on only their feet, or with their backs to the camera. VIP $72.40, First 3 Rows $46.80, Orchestra $31.20, Balcony $15.60 www.borlandtheater.org, boxoffice@ theborlandcenter.com
Free Concert 561-243-7922Delray Beach Center for the Arts Old School Square51 N. Swinton Ave. Delray BeachWith something for everyone, it’s music for the masses. All concerts start at 7:30 p.m.; rain or shine; FREE admission. Bring lawn chairs, and bring the family, but no pets or outside food and beverage. Food trucks and cash bar available. Also, Jan 10, 2014: 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm, Jan 17, 2014: 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm , Jan 24, 2014: 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm, Jan 31, 2014: 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm
FREE Concert Screaming Orphans 561-283-5856The Wellington Amphitheater
12100 Forest Hill Boulevard Wellington7:30 pm. Please bring seating!
Sunday February 9
Pool Party 561-712-5237 Mandel JCC of the Palm Beaches5221 Hood Road Palm Beach Gardens1-4 pm. Join us for an exciting Rock n’ Roll themed Family Pool Party! Enjoy pool time, music, and family fun at the George Rothman Aquatics Center. Free for Friends of the J/$15 per family. For more information, please contact Krisztina Ergas at [email protected] or register online at jcconline.com/familyevent.
Bluegrass Music with the Conch Stomp Band 561-624-6952John D. MacArthur Beach State Park 10900 Jack Nicklaus Dr. North Palm Beach1-3:00 p.m. Conch Stomp Band bring their foot-stompin’ and hand-clappin’ bluegrass music to the Park’s Amphitheater. Just sit back and enjoy the music in Palm Beach County’s most beautiful setting. The concert is free with park admission.
Kids Choice Sports, Dance and Fitness Open House 561-998-42256500 W. Rogers Cir #1000 Boca Raton2:00pm-6:00pm Join us for fun afternoon of free trial classes, demonstrations, giveaways and more. Meet the coaches and instructors and get signed up for classes. Free to the public. www.gokidschoice.com.
Monday February 10Children’s Library Preschool Story Time Society of the Four Arts2 Four Arts Plaza Palm Beach10:30 am. Free story time. Frozen Pond Day.
Tuesday February 11
Super Heroes & Princesses TuesdayCool Beans 561-627-178211701 Lake Victoria Gardens Ave #3115 Palm Beach GardensTwo Tuesdays of each month will be themed dress-up days with so much cuteness we might not be able to take it! If you dress up in or wear something reflective of the special theme, admission is just $5 per child! Don’t have a costume? Pick up tutus, pirates, princess and super hero costumes perfect for each occasion in our gift boutique.
Friendship Bracelet Creation FUN Cool Beans 561-627-178211701 Lake Victoria Gardens Ave #3115 Palm Beach Gardens
26 Parenting Plus • February 2014 www.parentingplus.com
3:00 pm. What
better way to celebrate National Make a Friend day then
make Friendship Bracelets! Cheers to friends and fun
Thursday February 13Food Truck Invasion 561-283-5856The Wellington Amphitheater 12100 Forest Hill Boulevard Wellington5:00 pm - 10:00 pm. Food Trucks Attending: BC Tacos, Best French Fries, Big Mike’s BBQ, The Big Ragu, Che Grill, Crazydilla, Dolce Gourmet Cupcakes, Fry Daddy, Grill Master Cafe, Joji Yogurt, The Loaded Burger, Lucilles on Wheels, The Philly Grill, Stocked N LoadedTaco Fresh. A weekly Food Truck event on some Thursday nights at the Wellington Amphitheater.
Annual Mardi Gras Carnival at St. Clare School 561-622-7171821 Prosperity Farms Rd. North Palm Beach5 pm to 10 pm.; Friday, February 14, 12 pm to 11 pm; Saturday, February 15, 10 am to 11 pm and Sunday, February 16, 1:00 pm to 10 pm. Discounted ride tickets (savings of 25%!) can be purchased at St. Clare Catholic School before Thursday, February 13. There is no admission fee. Food, game and ride tickets can also be purchased at the event. Mardi Gras is St. Clare School’s signature event. This family friendly carnival began in 1991, and has been attended by thousands of people over the years. The St. Clare campus is brilliantly transformed from green open fields to an amazing array of rides, midway games and vendors. Exciting additions to this year’s event include new rides, larger performance stage, food trucks.
Friday February14
Happy Valentines
Day
Early Bird WalkOkeeheelee Park 561-233-14007715 Forest Hill Blvd. West Palm Beach7 am. Want to learn more about the wild birds residing at Okeeheelee Nature Center? Join the Nature Center Manager on a leisurely and informative stroll through the woods at Okeeheelee, where you’ll learn to identify and observe birds and their behavior. Ages 13+, $3/person (Reservations Required.
Splash-A-Palooza 561-792-65953141 Fortune Way WellingtonThis is a Parent assisted class- so bring your bathing suits. Ages 3 months thru 3 years old. Limit 4 free classes per family for Free! Limit is 20 families per event so make reservations or first come first serve. This class will have water tables, small Water pools with sensory toys and story time with Radisha and more.... This is not a water survival or learn-to-swim class, but a great & free way to meet other parents and get you children comfortable in the water. Every Friday!
StorytimeOkeeheelee Park 561-233-14007715 Forest Hill Blvd. West Palm Beach10-10:30 am. Introduce your little ones to Mother Nature through nature-based stories! Class activities may include live animals, games, nature walks and/or crafts specifically designed for toddlers and preschoolers. Topic varies for each class. Ages 2-5, $2/child (Reservations Required)
Friday Films “A Royal Affair”Society of the Four Arts 561-655-72262 Four Arts Plaza Palm Beach2:30, 5:15 & 8:00 pm. $5; no charge for members (membership card required).
Historical Walking Tour 561-832-4164 Richard and Pat Johnson Palm Beach County History Museum300 North Dixie Hwy. West Palm Beach4:00 pm. The Historical Society of Palm Beach County will host Downtown West Palm Beach History Strolls led by architect and historian Rick Gonzalez of REG Architects. The one-hour guided tour showcases the evolution of downtown West Palm Beach buildings and landmarks and includes an historical urban design overview through recent area development. The tours have been organized each season since the development of CityPlace, West Palm Beach. Tour groups should meet at the Dixie Highway entrance to the historic 1916 courthouse in West Palm Beach. Advance reservations are required.First Friday of the Month starting October. Free!
Saturday February 15
Green Market In Boynton Beach at the S.E. Corner of Boynton Beach Blvd and US 1 Our Market is comprised of and run by a select group of artisan creators; making uniquely delicious products that you will not find anywhere else. We are a group of individuals who’s main goal is to provide a pleasurable and fun shopping experience. We are also dedicated to selling only the best quality local, sustainable, and freshest quality products and produce. Keeping a “Family of Vendors” is something we strive to do. As vendors ourselves, we created a market where we can strive to grow our business’ and keep consistency for our customers. We are pleased to have a market filled with wonderful products and friendly vendors. We cannot wait to share it with you. Please come to our market to see just how different it is and how much you’ve been missing.
Swamp Tromp Grassy Waters 561-804-4985 8264 Northlake Blvd West Palm Beach 9 am – 11 am. Get off the boardwalk and into the swamp! Get your feet wet as we explore the mysteries of the Everglades while hiking through our pristine cypress swamp. Ages 10 and over. $10/Adult, $4/Child. Reservations Required.. Free Fitness On Saturdays 561-393-7040Zumba & Yoga9:00 am - YOGA at Sanborn Square, 72 N Federal Highway Boca Raton10:30 am - ZUMBA, South Beach Pavilion at Palmetto Park Road and A1A “Free” shape up fitness classes from Yoga and Zumba to Pilates and others EVERY Saturday morning at Sanborn Square and the South Beach Pavilion. Contact: Nicole Gasparri. Email: [email protected]
Florida AnimalsOkeeheelee Park 561-233-14007715 Forest Hill Blvd. West Palm Beach1 pm. Come meet a variety of the nature center’s LIVE educational animals! Learn all about the way they live and how to help their wild relatives. Families/All Ages, $3/person Reservations Required.
FREE Concert Abba Girls Tribute 561-283-5856The Wellington Amphitheater 12100 Forest Hill Boulevard Wellington7:30 pm. Please bring seating!
Sunday February 16
Arts Spark Kids Fest 2014 561-347-3909City Of Boca Raton Sugar Sand Park Community Center
www.parentingplus.com Parenting Plus • February 2014 27
300 S. Military Trail Boca Raton11am-4pm. This interactive event will celebrate the creative, performing and visual arts for children 3 and up. Admission is $7 for kids 16 and under (adults free) and includes a unique opportunity to participate in over 25 performances, hands-on workshops, demonstrations and make & takes. The varying activities range from 10 to 30 minutes each and highlight dance, drawing, theater, improvisation, music and creative movement.
Bluegrass Music with the Untold Riches 561-624-6952John D. MacArthur Beach State Park 10900 Jack Nicklaus Dr. North Palm Beach1-3:00 p.m. Untold Riches bring their foot-stompin’ and hand-clappin’ bluegrass music to the Park’s Amphitheater. Just sit back and enjoy the music in Palm Beach County’s most beautiful setting. The concert is free with park admission.
Monday February 17
Presidents Day
No School
Friday February 21
Wetlands & Wildlife 561-544-8605Gumbo Limbo Nature Center1801 N. Ocean Blvd Boca Raton3-5 p.m. Wakodahatchee is a man-made wetland which has become a favorite for birders and photographers. Bring your binoculars and join us for a ¾ mile guided boardwalk tour to learn more about Florida’s wetland ecosystems. Meet at the boardwalk’s entrance (call for directions). Ages 7-adult. An adult must sign-up and participate with children. Reservations required.
Joey’s Outback Adventures 561-204-455410670 West Forest Hill Blvd. Wellington From 8-10 pm 3rd Friday of each Month - Adults only night. It’s time for the parents to have some fun. Bounce and have fun on all the jumps. For $15.95 Jump all you want, have fun with Karaoke and a Limbo contest to win prizes and free hops for the kids. We are also going to have available card games and board games. Reservations Required.
FREE Concert Tribute 561-283-5856The Wellington Amphitheater 12100 Forest Hill Boulevard Wellington 5:00 pm. Join us for two exciting days of music and delicious food from gourmet food trucks. The weekend
will be filled with tribute concerts, live entertainment and great vendors! 5–10:30 pm. The Boss Project Springsteen Tribute - 6:00 pm. Keep the Faith Bon Jovi Tribute - 8:30 pm
Saturday February 22
Build a Bird Feeder! Build. Learn. Create. Have Fun With Kids Workshops!9:00 a.m. – 12:00. FREE hands-on workshops designed for children ages 5 - 12 offered the 1st Saturday of every month at all The Home Depot stores. Workshops teach children do-it-yourself skills, tool safety and instill a sense of pride and accomplishment. All kids get to keep their craft and receive a FREE Kids Workshop Apron, commemorative pin and certificate of achievement. Regstration Required
Story Time 561-792-1292Barnes & Noble10500 West Forest Hill Blvd. Wellington10 am – 11 am. Come and discover the wonderful books that are offered in the children’s department of Barnes & Noble. Join us for this weekly storytime. Free
Story Time at Green Cay Nature Center 561-966-700012800 Hagen Ranch Road Boynton Beach10:00 AM - 11:00 AM. Ages 3-5, Join us monthly as we read stories, have learning time, and make crafts about animals and other nature-related themes! Topics will vary each month. $2 per child.
Pocahontas 561-394-2626 Showtime Performing Arts Theatre503 SE Mizner Blvd., Boca Raton2:00 pm. In this musical adventure, young and brave Pocahontas is torn between her Native American tradition and romance with an English soldier when English colonists invade 17th Century Virginia. Beautiful music by Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz includes Colors of the Wind.
FREE Concert Tribute 561-283-5856The Wellington Amphitheater 12100 Forest Hill Boulevard Wellington 5:00 pm. Join us for two exciting days of music and delicious food from gourmet food trucks. The weekend will be filled with tribute concerts, live entertainment and great vendors! 5–10:30 pm. Rocketman Elton John Tribute - 6:00 pm. Odyssey Road Journey Tribute - 8:30 pm
Wednesday January 26
Kidz Cook’n ClassCool Beans 561-627-178211701 Lake Victoria Gardens Ave #3115 Palm Beach Gardens4:30 pm. Come cook up some tasty treats with us!
Learning & the Brain: What the Brain CanTeach Itself 561-206-2706550 Heritage DriveSuite 140 Jupiter7:00 pm. Join us for a free educational presentation discussing the brain’s capacity to change itself. Learn about your child’s brain, how it functions, and how to improve the way it performs without using medications.Neurofeedback is a non-invasive behavioral technique that trains the brain, and is successfully used with both children and adults. Join us for a discussion of how and why it works. Training your brain with neurofeedback can help you reduce reliance on medication and overcome problems such as: ADD & ADHD, Learning & Behavior Problems, Anxiety & Depression, Sleep Disorders, Migraines & Obsessive Thoughts.
Thursday February 27
Food Truck Invasion 561-283-5856The Wellington Amphitheater 12100 Forest Hill Boulevard Wellington5:00 pm - 10:00 pm. Food Trucks Attending: BC Tacos, Best French Fries, Big Mike’s BBQ, The Big Ragu, Che Grill, Crazydilla, Dolce Gourmet Cupcakes, Fry Daddy, Grill Master Cafe, Joji Yogurt, The Loaded Burger, Lucilles on Wheels, The Philly Grill, Stocked N LoadedTaco Fresh. A weekly Food Truck event on some Thursday nights at the Wellington Amphitheater.
Children’s Library Preschool Story Time Society of the Four Arts2 Four Arts Plaza Palm Beach10:30 am. Free story time.
Friday February 28
Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center 561-790-5196 151 Civic Center Way Royal Palm BeachWest Fest“A Western Style Celebration”February 28th - March 2nd Dust off your boots and kick up your heels for an epic western community celebration where the SWAMP meets the WILD WEST. Plans are being finalized for this exciting three day western style event which will mark the one year anniversary of the grand opening of Royal Palm Beach Commons Park. Make plans to join us for another outstanding weekend packed with western style performers, live country entertainment and fun displays including ATVs, airboats, swamp buggies and more. Enjoy old fashioned games and activities such as panning for gold, hay rides, pony rides and farm animals coupled with Western Arts and Craft vendors, the ever
28 Parenting Plus • February 2014 www.parentingplus.com
A Perfect Party . . . . . . . . . . 9 All About Music . . . . . . . . 13Avenue Productions . . . . . . 3Armand Pest Control . . . . . 13Boca/Delray Pediatric Dentristry . . . . . . . . . . . . IFCCenter for Brain . . . . . . . . . 3Center For Child Counseling 7 Dance Arts Conservatory . 15Double Exposure . . . . . . . . . 6Face Art by Daisy . . . . . . . . 3 Home Away From Home . 17Kentwood Preparatory . . . . School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3Lisa’s Dance and Excercise 7Mad Science . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Math Tutor . . . . . . . . . . . . 17Miami Children’s
Gymnastics, Tumbling, Birthday Parties
561-868-0288G FORCE
ALLSTARS CHEERLEADING
www.gforcecheerleading.com
Register for Spring Classes Now!
Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . .BCPlanet Kids . . . . . . . . . . . IFC Santilli Orthodontics . . . . . 16Showtime Performing Arts . 6 South Florida Bounce & Slide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Sports Broadcasting Camp . 7 Wellington Prep. . . . . . . . . 13
DIRECTORY OF ADVERTISERS
Providing ExceptionalServices for your Loved Ones
Lisa HenryBS, CNA, HHA
Home Healthcare LLC561.809.6344 • [email protected]
Contact us now for a complimentary in-home treatment plan
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Kid’s Parties
• Schools• Camps• Libraries• Festivals
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Like us on our FaceBook and enter to win Disney On Ice Tickets. The show is in Miami. Visit www.
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Please Submit Calendar Items by
January 10th for the Febuary Issue
Email: [email protected]
popular Food Truck Invasion and a backyard BBQ / Chili Cook-off followed by the inaugural crowning of “Miss Westfest”.
Free Concert 561-243-7922Delray Beach Center for the Arts at Old School Square51 N. Swinton Ave. Delray BeachWith something for everyone, it’s music for the masses. All concerts start at 7:30 p.m.; rain or shine; FREE admission. Bring lawn chairs, and bring the family, but no pets or outside food and beverage. Food trucks and cash bar available.
Pirates Night at the Museum 561-832-1988South Florida Science Museum4801 Dreher Trail North West Palm Beach6 pm - 9 pm. On the last Friday of every month, the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium hosts a themed ‘Night at the Museum’-- a family friendly opportunity to enjoy extended hours of the Science Center’s typical off erings as well as a chance to view the night sky through the Science Center’s observatory. Arrrr… mates! Sail on over to the South Florida Science Center for a night of pirate science! In addition to ‘Science Nights’ typical off erings, parents and children are welcome to learn about one of the most legendary ships of all time – Titanic! Activities also include arts and crafts, animal dissections and dry ice experiments.
www.parentingplus.com Parenting Plus • February 2014 29
17th Annual17th Annual17th Annual17th Annual17th Annual17th Annual17th Annual17th Annual17th Annual17th Annual17th AnnualWe Care Kids’ FairWe Care Kids’ FairWe Care Kids’ FairWe Care Kids’ FairWe Care Kids’ FairWe Care Kids’ FairWe Care Kids’ FairWe Care Kids’ FairWe Care Kids’ FairWe Care Kids’ FairWe Care Kids’ FairWe Care Kids’ FairWe Care Kids’ FairWe Care Kids’ FairWe Care Kids’ FairWe Care Kids’ Fair
At the Palm Beach ZooAt the Palm Beach ZooAt the Palm Beach ZooAt the Palm Beach ZooAt the Palm Beach ZooAt the Palm Beach ZooAt the Palm Beach ZooAt the Palm Beach ZooAt the Palm Beach ZooAt the Palm Beach ZooAt the Palm Beach ZooAt the Palm Beach ZooAt the Palm Beach ZooAt the Palm Beach ZooAt the Palm Beach ZooAt the Palm Beach ZooAt the Palm Beach ZooAt the Palm Beach Zoowww.palmbeachzoo.comwww.palmbeachzoo.comwww.palmbeachzoo.comwww.palmbeachzoo.comwww.palmbeachzoo.comwww.palmbeachzoo.comwww.palmbeachzoo.comwww.palmbeachzoo.comwww.palmbeachzoo.comwww.palmbeachzoo.comwww.palmbeachzoo.comwww.palmbeachzoo.comwww.palmbeachzoo.comwww.palmbeachzoo.comwww.palmbeachzoo.comwww.palmbeachzoo.comwww.palmbeachzoo.comwww.palmbeachzoo.comwww.palmbeachzoo.comwww.palmbeachzoo.comwww.palmbeachzoo.com
Saturday, February 22nd, 2014Saturday, February 22nd, 2014Saturday, February 22nd, 2014Saturday, February 22nd, 2014Saturday, February 22nd, 2014Saturday, February 22nd, 2014Saturday, February 22nd, 2014Saturday, February 22nd, 2014Saturday, February 22nd, 2014Saturday, February 22nd, 2014Saturday, February 22nd, 2014Saturday, February 22nd, 2014Saturday, February 22nd, 2014Saturday, February 22nd, 2014Saturday, February 22nd, 2014Saturday, February 22nd, 2014Saturday, February 22nd, 2014Saturday, February 22nd, 2014Saturday, February 22nd, 2014Saturday, February 22nd, 2014Saturday, February 22nd, 2014Saturday, February 22nd, 2014Saturday, February 22nd, 2014Saturday, February 22nd, 2014Saturday, February 22nd, 2014Saturday, February 22nd, 2014Saturday, February 22nd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014and Sunday, February 23rd, 2014
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Join us for two fun-filled days of Family Fun and Entertainment.
There will be a Bounce House, Sand Art, Characters, Entertainment, and Local Vendors Showcasing
their Products & Services.
Exhibitor Space Available, but limited please call:
561-795-4815 or email: [email protected]
Presents
At Legacy Place 11310 Legacy Avenue Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410561-624-9188
NEW URGENT CARE E X T E N D E D
HOURS:
Pediatric urgent care centers are designed to provide care for minor, non life-threatening illnesses and injuries for babies, children and adolescents up to 21 years of age. Walk-ins are welcome. No appointment needed.
For details on additional services provided or for holiday hours, please visit: www.MCH.com/OutpatientCenters
7 days a week
Feeling better is now more convenient.
www.MCH.com/NicklausOutpatientCenter
HOURS:
7 days a week
MCH-838 Parenting Plus-February_R0.indd 1 1/6/14 3:38 PM
