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8
MY TWO CENTS
Choosing the right school.
10
SOUTH FLORIDA SPOTLIGHT
Connecting you with our community’s people, places and happenings.
12
FAMILY MATTERS
Here are 20 ways kids can help make the community a better place.
10
FAMILY FEAST
A surprising twist at the end elevates this weeknight stir-fry.
28
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Your guide to family-friendly fun throughout South Florida.
30
GIRL TALK
Girl Scouts creates spaces where girls feel supported, connected and empowered to grow.
FEBRUARY 2026 features
17
Skip the sugar overload and plastic waste. From earth-friendly treats and decorations to recycled cards kids will love, this guide shows how to throw a Valentine’s Day classroom party that celebrates friendship and the planet. departments
24
2026 ANNUAL EDUCATION GUIDE
Explore South Florida’s private schools, learning centers and enrichment programs all in one easy-to-use guide for families planning their next step.
GO GREEN ON VALENTINE’S DAY
PUBLISHER
Richard Rosser
EXECUTIVE EDITOR Susan Rosser
ASSISTANT EDITOR Shannon Pease-Severance
SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Suzy Miguelez • Sheila Ranson
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Carrie B. Weeks
PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Zoe Rosser
PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Ken Mitchell
DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Pavel Mohajan
CONTACT US: 2436 N Federal Highway, #311 Lighthouse Point, FL 33064 Phone 954-299-5592 info@southfloridafamilylife.com
Copyright 2026 by Point! Publishing. All rights reserved.
Flamingo Fest
“Quick
(see
Animal
Live Entertainment
Flamingo
Art-inspired
Enjoy
MY two cents
Finding the Right School
When I was 13, my parents made the surprising decision to move from Long Island to Manhattan. My mother and I had toured a local private high school, and when she mentioned the tuition to my father, he paused. He had always commuted so we could take advantage of the suburban public schools. If we were going to pay for private school, he reasoned it didn’t make sense to stay. Moving into the city simply felt more practical.
So my mother and I began shopping for schools in Manhattan. I was interviewed and took entrance exams. The world of Manhattan private schools was a far cry from my Long Island public school experience.
I still remember sitting in on one presentation where the headmaster proudly explained that students were assigned a major research paper at the beginning of the school year – and then no one mentioned it again until it was due. No reminders. No progress checks. The idea was that this mirrored college life, where long papers are simply expected. Standing on the sidewalk afterward, I told my mother that this school wasn’t for me. She didn’t argue.
Eventually, we found a good fit, but attending a private school in Manhattan was unlike anything I’d experienced. My ninth-grade math teacher allowed us to stop homework after an hour, provided we tried every type of problem. I had more work in a week than I’d had in a month at my old school. Still, I managed. I made new friends. I even found moments of fun amid all that homework.
Finding a school that’s a good fit can be an enlightening process. My dad always said that you “take” an education – it isn’t given to you. Maybe instilling that idea alone can help students succeed, no matter where they land.
SUSAN ROSSER, Executive Editor
Finding Forever Homes
ABANDONED PET RESCUE SAVES PETS, ONE PAW AT A TIME BY
SAM ROSSER
Abandoned Pet Rescue has become a cornerstone of animal welfare in Fort Lauderdale, but its roots stretch back nearly 30 years. What began as a small group of women working to humanely trap, neuter and care for feral cats, has grown into a large, multifaceted rescue organization. Today, as one of the only no-kill shelters in South Florida, the mission remains the same: to save animals, reduce overpopulation and place pets into loving forever homes.
One longtime advocate with the organization, Kara Starzyk, spent years volunteering and fostering before making animal welfare her full-time vocation. “I just decided to transition to another passion of mine, which is animal welfare,” she said. Her decision reflects the spirit of Abandoned Pet Rescue, where volunteers confront the realities of pet abandonment every day. On average, as many as 30 people attempt to drop off a pet each day, underscoring the severity of the issue in South Florida.
Despite the challenges, the reward comes from successful adoptions. “You
feel really good about getting into a forever placement,” she explained. Much of that satisfaction revolves around how hard it is to match pets with home. “There’s a common misconception that they come with trauma or health issues, which is just wrong,” she said. “Many of them come from happy homes where circumstances have changed for whatever reason.”
Education is a major part of the rescue’s work. They stress the importance of research before adopting; what kind of exercise, diet, environment and veterinary care is needed. Locally, a strong network of organizations collaborates to help both pets and potential owners. Broward County Animal Care offers spay and neuter vouchers, www.purrr.org provides grants for neutering feral cats, the Humane Society of Broward County offers lowcost veterinary care, and The Pet Project supplies pet food for families in
Jousting
need. “There’s so many organizations that are trying to work together to help people who are struggling,” she said.
Animal overpopulation remains a challenge. “It’s probably our number one issue down here,” she noted. With no winter season, cats breed year-round and backyard breeding adds to the crisis, as some people mistakenly believe they can make money selling puppies. There are also persistent myths about the health effects of spaying and neutering, despite overwhelming evidence of their benefits. However, progress is being made. The Fort Lauderdale Police Department’s Animal Crimes Unit launched about a year ago. “I’m really grateful for them stepping up and trying to make a difference in our community,” she said.
For those unable to adopt, fostering is powerful way to help. Even something as simple as sharing adoptable pets on social media can save lives.
You can learn more about adoption or fostering at www.abandonedpetrescue.org.
Hear ye, hear ye! The Florida Renaissance Festival doth return this February with ample turkey legs and jesters to nourish and entertain your whole family. Step into another world of men-at-arms, bards, spell casters and more as you are transported through the annals of history. There will be a plethora of live performances and a whole host of artisans. Stroll through the open-air marketplace filled with blacksmiths, leatherworkers, glassblowers and more. Fair warning: it might be hard to say “no” to your children when they’re wielding a broadsword. Best of all, your young band of squires (ages 6-11) receive a discounted rate of $15 and all younglings (ages five and under) enter free of charge. Here’s a roundup of all of the themed weekends so that you and your family can plan which fits your clan’s character.
SUMMER NEVER LOOKED SO SMART.
Day, residential, and online courses for grades 2-12 now enrolling for summer.
NEW FOR SUMMER 2026: CTY at Saint Andrew’s School in Boca Raton!
Good Deeds
20 WAYS YOUR KIDS CAN MAKE YOUR COMMUNITY A BETTER PLACE
BY TANNI HAAS, PH.D.
February 14-20 is Random Acts of Kindness Week, a great occasion to teach your kids the value of caring for the community in which they live, especially those community members who can’t care as well for themselves. Here are 20 practical suggestions on what they can do:
1. Visit sick kids at the hospital. This is a wonderful gesture during school breaks where everyone else is having fun.
2. Donate clothing and food to a homeless shelter. That will teach your kids the value of giving to those much less fortunate than themselves.
3. Help senior citizens learn to use technology, like how to search the internet, send emails, and navigate their smartphones, so they can better communicate with family and friends.
4. Offer to paint a less well-maintained house in the neighborhood. There’s always that one house that could use some sprucing up.
5. Help coach a sports team with younger kids. This can be any sport they are good at or just like playing.
6. Assist senior citizens by helping them with their groceries or running errands around town.
7. Ask the library if they need tutors for younger kids in reading, writing and basic math.
8. Volunteer for a clean-up day at a park. It’s needed in many places and a lot of fun to do, too.
9. Help out at charity shops. These shops rely on volunteers and can
always use another helping hand.
10. Visit the residents at a nursing home or assisted living facility. Many residents get less visits from family and friends than most people realize.
11. Organize a back-to-school supplies drive for kids whose families have fallen on hard times.
12. Contact a school to see if they need a homework tutor for its after-school program. Sometimes, kids can explain things to other kids in a way that’s more relatable and makes more sense than adults.
13. Help care for the animals at the animal shelter. There’s nothing like giving a little love to an abandoned dog or cat.
14. Organize a community get-together at the community center. This could be a movie screening, a dance or a group activity that encourages collaboration and bonding.
15. Donate books such as textbooks and test prep manuals to local schools.
16. Walk the dogs for neighbors who are injured, sick or otherwise unable to exercise their pets with daily outdoor walks.
17. Help out at a community garden planting flowers, vegetables, weeding, watering or just helping with upkeep and maintenance.
18. Volunteer at a soup kitchen. Many people do this at Thanksgiving or during the holidays, but the need is there all year round.
19. Read books or news articles to the visually impaired.
20. Help senior citizens with seasonal tasks like raking leaves in the fall, shoveling snow in the winter or mowing the grass in the summer.
Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences, and Disorders at the City University of New York –Brooklyn College.
Flavor Booster
Elevate Stir-Fry with a Knob of Butter
I have always believed that Julia Child once said, “If you want people to enjoy their vegetables, you have to make them taste good.” While I could not find an exact quote, she certainly championed the use of butter and taught us all that fat brings flavor. That got me thinking: could a touch of creamy butter add an unexpected richness to a soy sauce-based stir-fry? This recipe is the answer.
Recipe and Photo by Susan Rosser
Mongolian-style Pork Stir-Fry with Broccoli
Preparation: 20 minutes | Cooking: 15 minutes
Ingredients: (Serves 4)
1 pound pork tenderloin, thinly sliced against the grain
2 Tablespoons soy sauce
1 Tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
3 cups broccoli florets (about 1 head)
3 scallions, sliced into 2-inch pieces sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
FOR THE SAUCE
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
3 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon rice wine vinegar
1/4 cup water or chicken broth
3 cloves garlic, minced or grated
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water (slurry)
TO FINISH
A knob of butter (about 1 tablespoon) Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
Instructions
1. Marinate the pork: Toss the sliced pork with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Let it sit for 10-30 minutes.
2. Make the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, water or broth, sesame oil, garlic, ginger and the cornstarch slurry. Set aside.
3. Cook the pork: Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Stir-fry the pork for 3-4 minutes, until browned. Remove and set aside.
4. Cook the vegetables: Add the remaining oil. Stir-fry the broccoli for 3 minutes, until bright green. Add the white parts of the green onions, cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour the sauce over the vegetables, stir, and let it simmer 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Combine pork and sauce: Return pork to the pan, stir to coat, and cook for 1-2 more minutes, until pork is cooked through and the sauce is glossy.
6. Finish with butter: Turn off the heat and stir in the knob of butter until melted. This adds a silky, rich finish.
7. Serve: Spoon over rice or noodles. Garnish with green onion tops or sesame seeds if desired.
Tips:
• Cut the pork lengthwise first, then slice thinly against the grain for tenderness.
• For a little extra family-friendly sweetness, you can increase brown sugar to 4 tablespoons.
EDUCATION
Guide
GENERAL AND RELIGIOUS PRIVATE SCHOOLS
BROWARD COUNTY
ABUNDANT LIFE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
1494 Banks Rd., Margate
954-979-2665
www.alcaeagles.com
Grades: PK-11
ALAZHAR SCHOOL
7201 W. Mcnab Rd., Tamarac 954-722-1555
www.alazharschool.net
Grades: PK-8
ALL SAINTS CATHOLIC SCHOOL
10900 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Sunrise 954-742-4842
www.allsaintscatholicschool.net
Grades: K-8
AMERICAN HERITAGE
12200 W. Broward Blvd., Plantation 954-472-0022
www.ahschool.com
Grades: PK-12
ANNUNCIATION SCHOOL
3751 SW 39 St., West Park 954-989-8287
www.annun.org
Grades: PK-8
APPLE TREE MONTESSORI SCHOOL
6301 SW 160 Ave., Southwest Ranches 954-252-9250
www.appletreemont.com
Grades: PK-8
ARCHBISHOP MCCARTHY HIGH SCHOOL
5451 S. Flamingo Rd., Southwest Ranches 954-434-8820
www.mccarthyhigh.net
Grades: 9-12
BEACON HILL SCHOOL
7600 Davie Road Ext., Hollywood 954-963-2600
www.beaconhillschool.com
Grades: PK-8
BETH EMET SCHOOL
4807 S. Flamingo Rd., Cooper City 954-680-1882
www.bethemetschool.org
Grades: K-7
BETHANY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
615 SE Ninth St., Fort Lauderdale 954-522-2554
http://bcsftl.org
Grades: PK-8
BRAUSER MAIMONIDES ACADEMY
5300 SW 40 Ave., Fort Lauderdale 954-989-6886
www.brausermaimonides.org
Grades: PK-8
CALVARY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
2401 W. Cypress Creek Rd., Fort Lauderdale 954-905-5100
www.ccaeagles.org
Grades: PK-12
CARDINAL GIBBONS HIGH SCHOOL
2900 NE 47 St., Fort Lauderdale
954-491-2900
www.cghsfl.org
Grades: 9-12
CHAMINADE MADONNA College Preparatory
500 E. Chaminade Dr., Hollywood 954-989-5150
www.cmlions.org
Grades: 9-12
CHRISTI ACADEMY / STEPSS ACADEMY
3495 N. Hiatus Rd., Ste. 100, Sunrise 954-749-6869
www.stepssacademy.com
Grades: K-12
COOPER CITY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
5201 S. Flamingo Rd., Cooper City 954-680-0850
www.coopercitychristian.com
Grades: K-12
ELITE ACADEMY SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE
3970 NW 21 Ave., Oakland Park 954-972-7184
www.easeagles.com
Grades: 5-12
FAITH BAPTIST ACADEMY
6950 Royal Palm Blvd., Margate 954-974-2504
www.fbcmargate.com
Grades: PK-12
FIRST BAPTIST ACADEMY
2700 N. Palm Ave., Cooper City 954-404-7706
www.myfbalions.com
Grades: K-12
FORT LAUDERDALE PREPARATORY SCHOOL
3275 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Fort Lauderdale 954-485-7500
www.flps.com
Grades: PK-12
GLADES CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 400 Lakeview Dr., Coral Springs 954-755-6405
www.gladeschristian.com
Grades: K-8
HEBREW ACADEMY COMMUNITY SCHOOL
1500 N. State Road 7, Margate 954-978-6341
www.hebrewacademy.org
Grades: PK-8
HIGHLANDS CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
501 NE 48 St., Pompano Beach 954-421-1747
www.highlandschristian.org
Grades: PK-12
JEWISH ACADEMY
3100 SW Ninth Ave., Fort Lauderdale 954-457-3899
www.thejewishacademy.us
Grades: K-12
LIGHTHOUSE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 801 NE 34 Ct., Oakland Park 954-564-8950
www.lcaofbroward.com
Grades: 2-12
LIGHTHOUSE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
2331 NE 26 Ave., Pompano Beach 954-941-7501
www.lcsmariners.com
Grades: K-8
LITTLE FLOWER MONTESSORI SCHOOL 519 NE 26 St., Wilton Manors 954-565-8205
www.littleflowermontessori.org
Grades: PK-6
MADELAINE HALMOS ACADEMY 1315 W. Broward Blvd., Fort Lauderdale 954-463-8772
www.jackandjillcenter.org
Grades: K-5
MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS
Catholic School
5980 N. University Dr., Parkland 954-323-8012
www.mhocrc.org
Grades: K-8
MESIVTA OF CORAL SPRINGS 3251 NW 101 Ave., Coral Springs 954-464-0416
www.mesivtacs.com
Grades: 9-11
MONTESSORI ACADEMY 19200 Pines Blvd., Pembroke Pines 954-435-4622
www.montessori-academy.org
Grades: PK-8
MONTESSORI INSTITUTE OF BROWARD 12425 Orange Dr., Davie 954-466-5906
www.montessoriinstituteofbroward.com
Grades: PK-6
NSU UNIVERSITY SCHOOL 3375 SW 75 Ave., Davie 954-262-6055
www.uschool.nova.edu
Grades: PK1-12
NORTH BROWARD PREPARATORY SCHOOL 7600 Lyons Rd., Coconut Creek 954-621-2746
www.nordangliaeducation.com/nbpsflorida
Grades: PK3-12
OUR LADY QUEEN OF MARTYRS SCHOOL 2785 SW 11 Ct., Fort Lauderdale 954-583-8112
www.olqmfl.com
Grades: PK-8
OUR SAVIOR LUTHERAN SCHOOL 8001 NW Fifth St., Plantation 954-370-2161
www.oslplantation.school
Grades: PK-8
PARKRIDGE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 5600 Coral Ridge Dr., Coral Springs
954-346-0236
www.parkridgeca.com
Grades: PK-8
PARKWAY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
1200 S Flamingo Rd., Davie 954-424-6425
www.pcs-fl.net
Grades: PK-8
PHYL’S ACADEMY PREPARATORY SCHOOL
7205 Royal Palm Blvd., Margate 954-731-7524
www.phylsprep.com
Grades: K-12
PINE CREST SCHOOL
1501 NE 62 St., Fort Lauderdale 954-492-4100
www.pinecrest.edu
Grades: PK-12
PINEY GROVE BOYS ACADEMY
4699 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Lauderdale Lakes 954-735-1470
www.pineygroveacademy.org
Grades: K-11
POSNACK JEWISH DAY SCHOOL
5810 S. Pine Island Rd., Davie 954-583-6100
www.posnackschool.org
Grades: K-12
POTENTIAL CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
12401 Stirling Rd., Cooper City 954-434-1550
www.ilovepca.com
Grades: PK-8
RANDAZZO SCHOOL
2251 NW 36 Ave., Coconut Creek 954-968-1750
www.randazzoschool.net
Grades: K-12
ROHR BAIS CHAYA ACADEMY
8100 N. University Dr., Tamarac 954-788-8781
www.baischaya.com
Grades: 9-12
SALAH TAWFIK ELEMENTARY AND MIDDLE
5455 NW 108 Ave., Sunrise 954-213-8897
www.stemschool.net
Grades: PK-8
SHA’AREI BINA TORAH ACADEMY FOR GIRLS
2907 Taylor St., Hollywood 954-927-5544
www.shaareibina.org
Grades: 6-12
SHERIDAN HILLS CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
3751 Sheridan St., Hollywood 954-966-7995
www.shcssharks.com
Grades: PK-12
ST. AMBROSE CATHOLIC SCHOOL
363 SE 12 Ave., Deerfield Beach 954-427-2226
www.stambrosecs.org
Grades: PK3-8
ST. ANDREW CATHOLIC SCHOOL
9990 NW 29 St., Coral Springs 954-753-1280
www.standrewscatholicschool.com
Grades: PK-8
ST. ANTHONY CATHOLIC SCHOOL
820 NE Third St., Fort Lauderdale 954-467-7747
www.saintanthonyschoolfl.org
Grades: PK-8
ST. BARTHOLOMEW CATHOLIC SCHOOL
8003 Miramar Pkwy., Miramar 954-431-5253
www.stbartschool.org
Grades: PK-8
ST. BERNADETTE CATHOLIC SCHOOL
7450 Stirling Rd., Hollywood 954-432-5313
www.saintbernadettefl.org
Grades: PK-8
ST. BONAVENTURE CATHOLIC SCHOOL
1301 SW 136 Ave., Davie 954-476-5200
www.stbonaventurecatholicschool.com
Grades: PK-8
ST. COLEMAN CATHOLIC SCHOOL
2250 SE 12 St., Pompano Beach 954-942-3500
www.stcoleman.org
Grades: PK-8
ST. DAVID CATHOLIC SCHOOL
3900 S. University Dr., Davie 954-472-7086
www.saintdavid.org
Grades: PK-8
ST. GREGORY THE GREAT SCHOOL
200 N. University Dr., Plantation 954-473-8169
www.saintgreg.org
Grades: PK-8
ST. HELEN CATHOLIC SCHOOL
3340 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Fort Lauderdale 954-739-7094
www.sainthelen.net
Grades: PK-8
ST. MARK THE EVANGELIST CATHOLIC SCHOOL
5601 S. Flamingo Rd., Southwest Ranches 954-434-3887
www.stmarkparish.org
Grades: PK-8
ST. MARK’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL
1750 E. Oakland Park Blvd., Fort Lauderdale 954-563-4508
www.saintmarks.com
Grades: PK-8
ST. THOMAS AQUINAS HIGH SCHOOL
2801 SW 12 St., Fort Lauderdale 954-581-0700
www.aquinas-sta.org
Grades: 9-12
STEEPLE ON THE BEACH Montessori School
1920 SE Fourth St., Deerfield Beach
954-421-9220
www.sotbmontessori.com
STERLING ACADEMY
950 S. Pine Island Rd., Plantation 626-360-8012
www.sterling.academy
Grades: 6-12
SUMMIT-QUESTA MONTESSORI SCHOOL
5451 Davie Rd., Davie 954-584-3466
www.summitquesta.com
Grades: PK-8
THE SAGEMONT SCHOOLLOWER SCHOOL
1570 Sagemont Way, Weston 954-833-7876
www.sagemont.com
Grades: PK-5
THE SAGEMONT SCHOOLUPPER SCHOOL
2585 Glades Circle, Weston 954-737-2421
www.sagemont.com
Grades: 6-12
WEST BROWARD ACADEMY
5281 Coconut Creek Parkway, Margate 754-702-2320
www.westbrowardacademy.com
Grades: PK-8
WESTMINSTER ACADEMY
5601 N. Federal Hwy., Fort Lauderdale
954-771-4600
www.wa.edu
Grades: PK-12
SOUTH PALM BEACH COUNTY
ADVENT LUTHERAN SCHOOL
300 E. Yamato Rd., Boca Raton
561-395-3631
www.adventschoolboca.org
Grades: PK-8
AMERICAN HERITAGE SCHOOLBOCA/DELRAY
6200 Linton Blvd., Delray Beach
561-495-7272
www.ahschool.com
Grades: PK-12
BOCA PREP INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
10333 Diego Dr. S., Boca Raton
561-852-1410
www.bocaprep.net
Grades: PK-12
BOCA RATON CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
470 NW Fourth St., Boca Raton
561-391-2727
www.bocachristian.org
Grades: PK3-12
BRIDGEPREP ACADEMY OF PALM BEACH
1951 N. Military Trail
561-944-6733
www.bridgepreppalmbeach.com
Grades: K-8
DAUGHTER OF ZION JUNIOR ACADEMY
250 NW Third Ave., Delray Beach
561-243-0715
www.dozja.org
Grades: PK-8
EMERGING MINDS MONTESSORI ACADEMY
16705 Puzzle Place, Delray Beach
561-487-3535
www.emmontessori.com
Grades: PK-8
GARDEN OF THE SAHABA ACADEMY 3100 NW Fifth Ave., Boca Raton
561-395-3011
www.assahaba.org
Grades: PK-12
GRANDVIEW PREPARATORY SCHOOL
336 NW Spanish River Blvd., Boca Raton
561-416-9737
www.grandviewprep.net
Grades: PK-12
KATZ HILLEL DAY SCHOOL OF BOCA RATON
21011 95 Ave. S., Boca Raton
561-470-5000
www.hilleldayschool.org
Grades: PK-8
OLYMPUS INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY 8411 W. Palmetto Park Rd., Boca Raton
561-900-5323
www.oi.academy
Grades: K-8
PINE CREST SCHOOL AT BOCA RATON
2700 St. Andrews Blvd., Boca Raton 561-852-2800
www.pinecrest.edu
Grades: PK-12
SALT ACADEMY
7700 W. Camino Real, Ste. 100, Boca Raton 561-235-5775
www.saltacademy.org
Grades: K-12
SCORE ACADEMY
900 Broken Sound Pkwy., Boca Raton 561-241-1610
www.score-academy.com
Grades: K-12
SOMERSET ACADEMY BOCA
333 SW Fourth Ave., Boca Raton 561-393-1091
www.somersetboca.com
Grades: K-8
SPANISH RIVER CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
2400 W. Yamato Rd., Boca Raton
561-994-5006
www.spanishriverchristianschool.com
Grades: PK-8
SPORTS LEADERSHIP ARTS & MANAGEMENT (SLAM) BOCA
22500 Hammock St., Boca Raton 561-299-6969
www.slamboca.com
Grades: 6-12
ST. ANDREWS SCHOOL
3900 Jog Rd., Boca Raton 561-210-2000
www.saintandrews.net
Grades: PK-12
ST. JOHN PAUL II ACADEMY
4001 N. Military Trail, Boca Raton 561-314-2100 www.sjpii.net
Grades: 9-12
ST. JUDE CATHOLIC SCHOOL 21689 Toledo Rd., Boca Raton
561-392-9160
www.saintjudeschool.org
Grades: PK-8
ST. PAUL LUTHERAN SCHOOL 701 W. Palmetto Park Rd., Boca Raton 561-395-8548
www.stpaulboca.com
Grades: PK-8
TRINITY DELRAY LUTHERAN SCHOOL 400 N. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach 561-276-8458
www.trinitydelray.org
Grades: PK-8
UNITY SCHOOL 101 NW 22 St., Delray Beach 561-276-4414
www.unityschool.com
Grades: PK-8
WALDORF SCHOOL OF PALM BEACH 2450 NW 5th Ave., Boca Raton 561-289-1076
www.waldorfschoolpalmbeach.org
Grades: PK-8
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY
BELEN JESUIT PREPARATORY SCHOOL
500 SW 127 Ave., Miami
305-223-8600
www.belenjesuit.org
Grades: 6-12
CARROLLTON SCHOOL OF THE SACRED HEART
3747 Main Highway, Miami
305-446-5673
www.carrollton.org
Grades: PK-12
CENTNER ACADEMY
1911 NE Miami Ct., Miami
305-576-6070
www.centneracademy.com
Grades: PK-12
CHARTER SCHOOL AT WATERSTONE
855 Waterstone Way, Homestead
305-248-6206
www.charterschoolatwaterstone.com
Grades: K-5
CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS HIGH SCHOOL
3000 SW 87 Ave., Miami
305-223-5650
www.columbushs.com
Grades: 9-12
COLEMAN CARROLL HIGH SCHOOL
10300 SW 167 Ave., Miami
305-388-6700
www.colemancarroll.org
Grades: 9-12
CONCHITA ESPINOSA ACADEMY AND CONSERVATORY OF THE ARTS
12975 SW Sixth St., Miami
305-227-1149
www.conchitaespinosa.com
Grades: PK-12
DADE CHRISTIAN
6601 NW 167 St., Miami
305-822-7690
www.dadechristian.org
Grades: PK-12
DIVINE SAVIOR ACADEMY
10311 NW 58 St., Doral
305-597-4545
www.divinesavioracademy.com
Grades: PK-12
DORAL INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY OF MATH & SCIENCE
6700 NW 104 Ave., Doral
786-270-2088
www.doralinternational.org
Grades: K-8
EVERGLADES PREPARATORY ACADEMY
2251 E. Mowry Dr., Homestead
786-601-1969
www.evergladesprep.com
Grades: 6-12
FLORIDA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
4200 SW 89 Ave., Miami
305-226-8152
www.floridachristian.org
Grades: PK2-12
FUSION ACADEMY MIAMI
9130 S. Dadeland Blvd., Miami
305-831-0041
www.fusionacademy.com
Grades: 6-12
GLADEVIEW CHRISTIAN SCHOOL MIAMI 12201 SW 26 St., Miami
305-551-6143
www.gladeviewschool.org
Grades: PK-8
GOOD SHEPHERD CATHOLIC SCHOOL 14187 SW 72 St., Miami 305-385-7002
www.good-shepherd-school.org
Grades: PK3-8
GULLIVER PREP
Multiple campuses, Miami 305-666-6333
www.gulliverprep.org
Grades: PK-12
IMMACULATA-LA SALLE HIGH SCHOOL
3601 S. Miami Ave., Miami 305-854-2334
www.ilsroyals.com
Grades: 9-12
KILLIAN OAKS ACADEMY
10545 SW 97 Ave., Miami
305-274-2221
www.killianoaksacademy.com
Grades: PK-12
MIAMI CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
200 NW 109 Ave., Miami
305-221-7754
www.miamichristian.org
Grades: K-12
MIAMI COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL
601 NE 197 St., Miami
305-779-7200
www.miamicountryday.org
Grades: PK-12
MONSIGNOR EDWARD PACE HIGH SCHOOL
15600 NW 32 Ave., Miami Gardens
305-623-7223
www.pacehs.com
Grades: 9-12
OUR LADY OF LOURDES 5525 SW 84 St., Miami
305-667-1623
https://olla.org/ Grades: 9-12
OUR LADY OF LOURDES PARISH SCHOOL
1400 SW 112 St. Miami
305-386-8446
www.ololjaguars.org
Grades: PK-8
PALM GLADES PREPARATORY ACADEMY
22655 SW 112 Ave., Homestead
www.palmgladesacademy.com
Grades: 6-12
PALMER TRINITY SCHOOL
8001 SW 184 St., Miami
305-251-2230
www.palmertrinity.org
Grades: 6-12
RANSOM EVERGLADES SCHOOL (Middle) 2045 S. Bayshore Dr., Coconut Grove (Upper) 3575 Main Highway, Coconut Grove www.ransomeverglades.org
Grades: 6-12
RIVIERA SCHOOLS
(Day School) 6800 Nervia St., Coral Gables (Prep School) 9775 SW 87 Ave., Miami www.rivieraschools.com
Grades: PK-5 and 6-12
SCHECK HILLEL COMMUNITY SCHOOL
19000 NE 25th Ave., North Miami Beach
305-931-2831
www.ehillel.org
Grades: PK-12
SHELTON ACADEMY
9455 NW 40th Street Rd., Doral
305-599-9967
www.sheltonacademyschools.com
Grades: PK-12
ST. BRENDAN HIGH SCHOOL
2950 SW 87 Ave., Miami
305-223-5181
www.stbrendanhigh.org
Grades: 9-12
ST. THERESA CATHOLIC SCHOOL
2701 Indian Mound Trail
305-446-1738
www.stscg.org
Grades: PK-8
ST. THOMAS THE APOSTLE CATHOLIC SCHOOL
7303 SW 64 St., Miami
305-661-8591
http://school.stamiami.org
Grades: PK-8
SUMMERVILLE ADVANTAGE ACADEMY
11575 SW 243 St., Homestead 305-253-2123
www.summervilleadvantageacademy.com
Grades: K-5
THE CUSHMAN SCHOOL
592 NE 60 St., Miami
305-757-1966
www.cushmanschool.org
Grades PreK-12
WESTMINSTER CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
6855 SW 152 St., Palmetto Bay
305-233-2030
www.wcsmiami.org
Grades: PK-12
WESTWOOD CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
5801 SW 120 Ave., Miami
305-274-3380
www.westwoodchristian.org
Grades: PK-12
XCEED PREPARATORY ACADEMY
9350 S. Dixie Highway, Miami www.xceedprep.org
Grades: 6-12
SPECIAL NEEDS SCHOOLS
BROWARD COUNTY
AMERICAN PREPARATORY ACADEMY
4850 S. Pine Island Rd., Davie 954-434-8936
www.apaacademy.org
Grades: K-12
ATLANTIS ACADEMY 11411 NW 56 Dr., Coral Springs 954-752-7571
coralsprings.atlantisacademy.com Grades: K-12
BCC ACADEMY
200 SE 29 Ave., Pompano Beach
954-943-7336
www.bcckids.org/bccacademy
CENTER ACADEMY
4700 Riverside Dr., Ste. 100, Coral Springs 954-575-1231
www.centeracademy.com Grades: 5-12
DIVERSE ABILITIES
13900 Griffin Rd., Southwest Ranches 954-401-2024
www.teachdiverseabilities.com
DIVINE ACADEMY
14900 NW 20 St., Pembroke Pines
954-499-4638
www.divineacademy.com
Grades: 5-12
LITTLE FLOWERS OF HOPE 2642 Executive Park Dr., Weston 954-670-1242
www.littleflowersofhope.com
Grades: K4-12
SOUTH
PALM BEACH COUNTY
ATLANTIS ACADEMY PALM BEACH
1950 Prairie Rd., West Palm Beach 561-642-3100
www.atlantisacademy.com
Grades: K-12
BOCA SCHOOL FOR AUTISM 3848 FAU Blvd., Boca Raton 561-826-9156
www.bocaschoolforautism.org
Grades: 6-12
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY
ATLANTIS ACADEMY MIAMI 9600 SW 107th Ave., Miami 305-271-9771
https://miami.atlantisacademy.com
Grades: K-12
CARRIE BRAZER CENTER 4 AUTISM 7530 Sunset Dr., Miami 305-271-8790
Grades: PK-12
MCGLANNAN SCHOOL 10770 SW 84 St., Miami 305-274-2208
www.mcglannanschool.com
Grades: 1-8
SOUTH FLORIDA AUTISM CENTER 3751 W. 108 St., Hialeah 305-823-2700
www.sfa-center.org
THE ROIG ACADEMY 8000 SW 112 St., Miami 305-235-1313
www.roigacademy.com
Grades: PK-8
VANGUARD SCHOOL OF COCONUT GROVE 3939 Main Highway, Coconut Grove 305-445-7992 www.vanguardschool.com
ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS
BRIGHT & SMART
Locations throughout South Florida www.brightandsmart.com
HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER
Locations throughout South Florida www.huntingtonhelps.com
JOHNS HOPKINS CENTER FOR TALENTED YOUTH AT SAINT ANDREW'S SCHOOL 3900 Jog Rd., Boca Raton 561-210-2000
www.saintandrews.net/community/ johns-hopkins-cty
Plantation Heritage Park hosts ParkFest: Love & Music on Sun., Feb. 15, Noon to 4PM. Performances include the Florida Youth Orchestra and Grammy-Winning Artist-inResidence Nestor Torres. Food trucks, British Car Show, Kids Activities, and more. $5 parking fee benefits Parks Foundation of Broward County. Broward.org/Parks
Roam, ride, and snack your way through THE YOUTH FAIR this spring. Use promo code FLFAMLIFE to enjoy presale savings.
Greener Gatherings
THROW AN ECO-FRIENDLY CLASSROOM PARTY KIDS WILL LOVE
By Sandi Schwartz
t’s that time of year when our kids celebrate friendship and love by indulging in lots of sugary treats and handing out cards to their friends during the highly anticipated Valentine’s Day class party. It’s so exciting for the children to receive these goodies from their classmates to show how much they care about each other, but have you noticed all the waste that these cute little parties produce? All those love notes and candy wrappers quickly end up in the garbage. What if, instead, we added some green to our Valentine’s Day? This holiday is all about love, and that includes showing love to the earth as well as to each other. Here are some fun and easy ways to throw an eco-friendly Valentine’s Day class party – or house party – for your children.
Treats
Most holidays seem to center around sweets, but of course, Valentine’s Day has a love affair with chocolate and any heart-shaped candy. It’s important, though, that we choose these treats carefully for our children. Look for natural and organic candy and baked goods to give out at the party since they don’t contain harmful chemicals. More stores are carrying these types of items, but you can always bake your own to share with the class, if your child’s school allows it.
Then there’s the whole plastic waste issue. Unfortunately, most candy and cookie wrappers are not easily recyclable. Look for non-plastic wrapped goodies, such as those wrapped in paper boxes or foil, so they can be recycled. Fortunately, lots of chocolates like Hershey kisses and chocolate bars are wrapped with paper and/or foil that can be recycled. You can also buy candy in bulk and wrap it yourself in cute cloth pouches or small paper boxes to give out to the kids.
Also, be mindful of which food items you purchase at the grocery store for the party to avoid those wrapped in excessive plastic, such as dips and pre-packaged fruit salads. And when you store any food that you prepare at home for the party, be sure to avoid plastic containers and plastic wrap by using alternatives, like glass or stainless steel containers.
continued on page 26
Party Goods
You can make a big impact by the types of party goods that you choose for the class party. Avoid using plastic or Styrofoam utensils, plates and cups. Instead, look for paper (recycled is best), bamboo or even plates and utensils made out of palm leaves. If the children need straws for neatness, look for paper straws or stainless steel that you can wash afterwards. If possible, use real cloth tablecloths instead of the plastic throwaway ones. And, choose napkins made from recycled materials, which are now readily available online and at major retailers.
Cards
Of course, the main event of any Valentine’s class party is handing out cards to friends. This tradition can easily get out of hand and lead to a pile of wasteful junk. Think about this… Americans throw away enough paper annually to build a 12-foot-high wall from Seattle to New York every year. Between those cards being produced each year and then getting tossed in the garbage, they end up harming the environment in a number of ways, like deforestation, air pollution and producing greenhouse gases that cause climate change. We can make a big difference by cutting back on our paper use with a few creative tricks.
• Look for cards made from recycled paper.
• Help your children make their own cards from recycled paper, leftover wrapping paper, last year’s Valentine’s cards, magazines or other materials you have around the house. This way, they can personalize them, and their friends will feel extra special.
• Spread a green message by handing out paper cards with seeds embedded in them. Look for colorful hearts or other fun shapes, then each child can go home, plant it and grow their own flowers or herbs.
Decorations
Skip the mass-produced plastic decor, and use these tips to go green when you decorate the classroom:
• Choose paper decorations instead of those made out of plastic.
• Make your own decorations using last year’s Valentine’s cards, tissue paper from birthday gifts received, or by taking some recycled paper and drawing, painting or stamping hearts and cupids on it. The options are endless!
• Use natural items such as apples and cherries for a splash of red, red or pink plants and flowers, or take items like rocks, leaves, flower petals or pine cones and glue them in the shape of hearts to display during the party.
• Shop second-hand. Check out local thrift stores, online sites like www.freecycle.org, or garage sales for some treasures that can add a sparkle to your party decor. When you choose to reuse, you are reducing waste and keeping items from ending up in the landfill.
Festive Attire
What would a Valentine’s Day party be without sending your little one to school all decked out in red and pink? When you choose the perfect outfit for your child, make sure it is organic. The fashion industry uses pesticides and other toxic materials during the manufacturing process. These toxins can be absorbed by our skin and cause skin irritation and other negative health consequences. By opting for organic fabrics, like organic cotton, you minimize the harmful effect of carbon on our planet and limit the exposure of chemicals that harm the environment and our kids because they are grown without toxic pesticides or fertilizers and are typically pigment-free, metal-free, bleach-free and hypoallergenic.
LOCAL LINEUP
FAMILY EVENT CALENDAR
Every effort has been made to provide accurate information. Changes and cancellations do occur. Please double check the details before setting out on your adventure.
BROWARD
Back to the Future
FEBRUARY 3-15
See this musical version of the classic film where Marty McFly is transported to 1955 in a time machine. $138 and up. Showtimes vary. BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, www.browardcenter.org
Freshly Rooted Story Time
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7
Celebrate Black History Month with a magical story time adventure for kids, featuring ‘Your Name is a Song,’ a heartwarming tale that honors the beauty and cultural significance of names through music and storytelling. Free. BLANCHE ELY HOUSE MUSEUM, 1500 NW Sixth Ave., Pompano Beach, www.pompanobeachfl.gov/events
Vienna Boys Choir
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6
This group of child musicians delights audiences across the globe with their purity of tone, and diverse repertoire. $26-$98. 7:30pm, LILLIAN S. WELLS HALL AT THE PARKER, 707 NE Eighth St., Fort Lauderdale, www.browardcenter.org
Florida Renaissance Festival
WEEKENDS THROUGH MARCH 29
Travel back to the 16th century at this 34th event with over 100 artisans, performers, jousting knights, medieval games and royal feasts. $30/adult, $15/children ages 6–11; ages 5 and under free. Season passes available. 10am, QUIET WATERS PARK 401 S. Powerline Rd., Deerfield Beach, www.ren-fest.com
Rock the Park
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7 AND SATURDAY, MARCH 7
Outdoor concert features Hotter Than July, a Stevie Wonder tribute band. Free. 7pm, PINE ISLAND PARK, Plantation, www.plantation.org
WestonNights Concert in the Park
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7
Concert at the park features MANTRAP with Pop, Latin, Funk and dance hits. Free. 7pm, WESTON REGIONAL PARK, 20200 Saddle Club Rd., Weston, www.westonfl.org
Big Game Fun Day
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7
An action-packed day featuring a pick-up flag football game, bounce houses, a game truck and food available for purchase. Free. 11am, MCNAIR PARK, 951 NW 27 Ave., Pompano Beach, www.pompanobeachfl.gov
Nature Tots
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12
Toddlers can participate in nature-themed learning through storytelling, crafts and activities. Preregistration is required. $5. 10am, FERN FOREST NATURE CENTER, 201 Lyons Road South, Coconut Creek, www.broward.org/parks
Flamingo Fest
SATURDAY-SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 14-15
Celebrate art and nature with live entertainment, artist demonstrations, animal care talks and an annual photography contest exhibit. $24/ages 12 and up; $17/ ages 3-11, free/ages 0-2. 9:30am, FLAMINGO GARDENS, 3750 S. Flamingo Rd., Davie, 954-473-2955, www.flamingogardens.org
President’s Day Free Trail Stroll
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 16
Celebrate the holiday by treating yourself to a guided introductory boardwalk stroll through the mangrove swamp. Free. 10:30am, ANNE KOLB NATURE CENTER, 751 Sheridan St., Hollywood, www.broward.org/parks
Downtown Hollywood ArtWalk
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21
Visit restaurants, galleries and shops while enjoying art, music, magic, murals, an outdoor market and more. Free. 6pm, DOWNTOWN HOLLYWOOD, 2000 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, www.hollywoodcra.org
Sistrunk Parade & Festival
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 22
Community event features marching bands, step teams, classic cars, floats and more. Free. 8:30am, SISTRUNK BOULEVARD from NW 19th Avenue to NW 9th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, www.parks.fortlauderdale.gov
Town of Davie Annual Orange Blossom Festival, Parade & Rodeo
FRIDAY-SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 27-MARCH 1
Have some fun with this family at this beloved annual event. Free. BAMFORD SPORTS COMPLEX, 3801 S. Pine Island Road, Davie, www.davie-fl.gov
Story Time With a Parks Naturalist
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28
Join a Broward County parks naturalist for a nature-themed story time, followed by a coloring session. For ages 2-6 with family. Free. 10am, LAUDERHILL CENTRAL PARK LIBRARY, 3810 NW 11th Place, Lauderhill, www.broward.org
Tiger Trail Festival Pompano Beach
THROUGH SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28
A month-long Black History Month celebration featuring community events, performances and family-friendly activities. See the festival site for the full schedule and details. POMPANO BEACH, www.tigertrailfestival.com
Las Olas Art Fair
SATURDAY-SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28-MARCH 1
Peruse this two-day outdoor fine art festival on Las Olas Boulevard with artists, galleries, boutiques and sidewalk cafés. Free. 10am, LAS OLAS BOULEVARD, 620 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, www.artfestival.com
The Magic of Kevin Spencer
SUNDAY, MARCH 8
A sensory-inclusive magic show designed to be welcoming for children and adults on the autism spectrum and others with sensory sensitivities. 11am, BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, www.browardcenter.org
MIAMI-DADE
Build Fest
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 1
Two-day building-themed event with handson activities and challenges for kids. MIAMI
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM, 980 MacArthur Causeway, Miami, FL 33132, Miami, 305-373-5437 www.miamichildrensmuseum.org
Girls Got Game
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7
Hands-on sports clinics for girls ages 6-17 featuring multiple sports and rotating skills stations. Pre-registration required. 9am, TROPICAL PARK STADIUM, 7900 SW 40 St., Miami, www.miamidade.gov
Adventure Day
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7
Family-friendly day with kids’ crafts, a Valentine’s scavenger hunt, guided garden tours and photo backdrops. $5/adult, $3/child (11 and under), free/under 5. 10am, FRUIT & SPICE PARK, 24801 SW 187 Ave., Miami, www.miamidade.gov
EcoFest: Valentine’s Edition
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7
Family-friendly sustainability festival with educational booths, hands-on activities, a sustainable market, food vendors, giveaways and live music at Collins Park on Miami Beach. Free. 3pm, COLLINS PARK, 2100 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, www.cleanmiamibeach.org
Screen-free Saturday
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7
Unplug with the family at this screen-free program featuring new activities each week. All ages. 2pm, CORAL GABLES LIBRARY, 3443 Segovia St., Coral Gables, www.mdpls.org
PALM BEACH
Manatee Fest
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7
Family-friendly festival at Manatee Lagoon celebrating manatees and Florida’s waterways with live music, kid activities, exhibits, vendors and more. Free. MANATEE LAGOON, 6000 N. Flagler Dr., West Palm Beach, www.visitmanateelagoon.com
Free Family Fun Day
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14
Explore Miami’s history and culture with highlights tours, hands-on crafts, and interactive experiences on the second Saturday of the month. Registration required. Free. Noon, HISTORYMIAMI MUSEUM, 101 West Flagler St., Miami, www.historymiami.org
Coconut Grove Art Festival
SATURDAY-MONDAY, FEBRUARY 14-16
A Presidents’ Day weekend waterfront arts festival featuring more than 275 artists, plus live music, kid-friendly activities, crafts and entertainment. 10am, REGATTA PARK/DINNER KEY
MARINA AREA, along McFarlane Road and South Bayshore Drive, Coconut Grove, www.cgaf.com
Just
for Me: Brain Games
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21
Sensory-friendly museum hours for individuals and families with diverse sensory/accessibility needs, featuring a special Brain Games activation focused on neuroplasticity. 10am, PHILLIP AND PATRICIA FROST MUSEUM OF SCIENCE, 1101 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, www.frostscience.org
Mini-Me Science: Into the WildEverglades National Park
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 22
Kids ages 3-6 can participate in rangerled nature walks, hands-on STEM activities, storytelling and mindfulness focused on the Everglades ecosystem. 10:30am, ERNEST F. COE VISITOR CENTER (EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK), 40001 State Road 9336, www.frostscience.org
Wildlife Kayak Adventure
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 22
Paddle quietly across seagrass beds and into a mangrove forest while your guide helps you spot local wildlife above and below the water. Space is limited. Ticket price includes general
Family Fun Day: Paper Orchids
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7
Make your own paper orchids to take home. All ages. Free with paid admission. 11am, MORIKAMI MUSEUM AND JAPANESE GARDENS, 4000 Morikami Park Rd., Delray Beach, 561-495-0233, www.morikami.org
West Palm Beach Green Market
SATURDAYS, FEBRUARY 7, 21 & 28
Take a stroll along the water and get some local, fresh produce. Free. GREAT LAWN
MLB Spring Training
FEBRUARY 20-MARCH 24
Go catch a ballgame with your kids without the hassle of big-stadium crowds and traffic. It’s America’s pastime, and it certainly helps that these games don’t happen during the dog days of summer. Times, cost, and locations vary. www.mlb.com/news/ mlb-2026-spring-training-schedule
admission to the Estate during regular hours. Recommended for intermediate paddlers. $50. 9am, DEERING ESTATE, 16701 SW 72 Ave., Miami, www.deeringestate.org
READy, Set, Go: Storytelling
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 25
Interactive story time explores how shared reading builds language and literacy skills through stories, songs and activities. Ages 5 and under. 3pm, CORAL GABLES LIBRARY, 3443 Segovia St., Coral Gables, www.mdpls.org
Laser Evening
SATURDAY, MARCH 7
Enjoy a Planetarium laser show under the dome. 7pm, FROST PLANETARIUM (FROST SCIENCE), 1101 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, www.frostscience.org
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(WATERFRONT), 100 N. Clematis St., West Palm Beach, www.wpb.org
Tot Time
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17
Spend the day at the park and an indoor playroom with toys, bubbles, costumes, crafts, snacks and more. Adult supervision required. Drop-in program, but pre-registration is recommended. 10am, SUGAR SAND PARK COMMUNITY CENTER, 300 S. Military Trail, Boca Raton, www.myboca.us TurtleFest
SATURDAY-SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21-22
Ocean conservation festival with hands-on activities, exhibits and opportunities to learn about sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation. Free. LOGGERHEAD MARINELIFE CENTER, 14200 US-1, Juno Beach, www.marinelife.org/turtlefest
South Florida Garlic Fest
SATURDAY-SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28-MARCH 1
Have a passion for garlic? Then spend an afternoon perusing all the joys and uses garlic can provide. Prices vary. DOWNTOWN DELRAY BEACH, 51 N. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach, www.garlicfestfl.com
The Power of Connection
HELPING GIRLS BUILD A POSITIVE OUTLOOK THROUGHOUT THE YEAR
The start of the new year is about new beginnings. It can be a time of renewal when kids can try new activities that encourage connection, confidence and curiosity and feel part of a community, all of which play a vital role in their mental health and emotional development.
Strong social connections are essential to a child’s mental and emotional well-being. When children experience a sense of belonging, they are more likely to feel confident, supported and understood. It’s programs like Girl Scouts that create opportunities for girls to build friendships through shared experiences, teamwork and collaboration.
Within a Girl Scout troop, girls learn to communicate, support one another and work toward common goals. These interactions can help reduce feelings of isolation and instead teach empathy and foster emotional resilience. By forming friendships in a safe, inviting environment, girls gain social skills and support both mental health and long-term personal growth. This is particularly important based on the groundbreaking assessment of the unique challenges facing girls across the state published in the State of the Florida Girl Report commissioned by the Girl Scouts of Florida Association. The report found that 52% of high school girls report feeling sad or hopeless for two or more weeks in a row, reflecting a 40% increase in depression over the past decade. Additionally, one in four girls seriously considered attempting suicide, showing a troubling rise of more than 60% in the last 10 years.
The data in the State of the Florida Girl Report emphasizes the need for strong community support for girls. Girl Scouts fosters connections among girls, families and mentors to create a network of support. The report also revealed the ongoing gender disparity in STEM fields. Girl Scouts encourage girls to explore a wide range of interests,
from outdoor adventures and STEM activities to creative arts and community service. Each new experience is a hands-on learning opportunity to teach children how to set goals, solve problems and overcome challenges. When children see their efforts lead to achievement, it boosts their self-esteem and encourages a positive mindset.
Having a sense of purpose is also a powerful contributor to mental health. Through leadership opportunities and community involvement, Girl Scouts empower girls to see the impact they can make in the world around them. Whether working on an award service project or participating in the Girl Scout Cookie Program, the largest girl-led entrepreneurial program in the world, girls learn responsibility, the importance of teamwork and the value of perseverance. All the while, they are building critical skills in problem-solving, communication and leadership that are essential for today’s job market.
“We touch the lives of girls from kindergarten through 12th grade so there are many meaningful opportunities to grow, connect and lead,” said Lisa Johnson, CEO of Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida. “Through their experiences, the girls build confidence and gain a positive outlook that supports their mental and emotional well-being.” By fostering confidence, curiosity and community, Girl Scouts provides girls with the tools they need to thrive emotionally, socially and beyond. For more information about the Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida, visit gssef.org.
The Future of Heart Care is Here
Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Heart Institute, ranked #1 in South Florida for Pediatric Cardiology & Heart Surgery* by U.S. News & World Report, proudly welcomes Dr. David Kalfa, a world-renowned leader in heart care.
Dr. David Kalfa, chief of Cardiovascular Surgery and professor of surgery and pediatrics at FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, brings advanced minimally invasive techniques that help kids heal faster and live brighter lives. He joins Dr. Shyam Sathanandam, chief of Cardiovascular Medicine, a pioneer in interventional cardiology who has developed life-saving treatments for children once considered untreatable.
Together, they lead Florida’s only pediatric heart program with two codirectors. Families can feel confident that even the most complex heart conditions can be treated with world-class care, close to home.
Same Day / Next Day Appointments** with board-certified pediatric and prenatal cardiologists are available at more than 11 locations throughout South Florida **Subject to insurance approval and authorization.
Dr. Shyam Sathanandam
Dr. David Kalfa