Category: Family

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Thanksgiving traditions

Gathering, getting together, and going out

Thanksgiving has always been centered around good food and even better company. For some families, it’s waking up early to start the turkey, passing around recipes that have been in the family for years, and gathering around a crowded dining table. For others, it’s about doing things a little different—trading the kitchen chaos for a reservation and letting others do the work.

More and more locals are choosing to celebrate Thanksgiving out this year, and several nearby restaurants are opening their doors to make the day extra special.

Runyon’s is a local favorite that always feels like home. With its cozy, classic atmosphere and menu full of holiday comfort foods, it’s the perfect place for those who still want that traditional Thanksgiving feel—just without the hours of prep. Nearby, NYY Steak in Seminole Casino Coconut Creek offers a more modern spin, serving perfectly grilled steaks and hearty sides that make any holiday meal feel like an occasion.

With nearby locations in Boca Raton and Sunrise, Seasons 52 is a popular choice for those who love fresh, seasonal ingredients and a lighter touch on classic entrees. And just down the road, Cooper’s Hawk in the Promenade pairs its special Thanksgiving menu with its signature house wines, giving the day a festive twist that feels both upscale yet inviting.

But Thanksgiving isn’t only about where you eat. It’s about how you spend the day. Some families lace up for a local morning Turkey Trot or enjoy a bike ride before the big meal, while others volunteer at local food banks or shelters, helping make the holiday brighter for neighbors in need.

The Perez family of Coral Springs has made their own special routine over the years. “We start the morning with the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade playing in the background while we break out all the old board games,” says Jennifer Perez. “Then in the afternoon, we head out to volunteer at a local food shelter. It’s our way of reminding ourselves what the day is really about.”

For the Stein family of Parkland, Thanksgiving means something a little different, but just as cherished. “Football is a must in our house. We’ve got the game on all day while the turkey cooks, and that smell just fills the whole house. It’s the perfect mix of comfort and tradition!”

Whether you’re hosting at home or raising a glass at your favorite local restaurant, Thanksgiving remains what it’s always been—sharing precious time, a meal, and gratitude with the people who matter most.

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A trek through verdant nature in Davie

There once was a dairy farm in Davie that was slated to get developed as a golf course and golf community. But in 1980, Broward County officials decided to protect and conserve this property for residents’ enjoyment, and it eventually became Tree Tops Park. Right in the middle of residential Davie, locals now have a beautiful 243-acre community park, featuring nature trails, a thriving forest, a 1,000-foot boardwalk extending over a restored freshwater marsh, pavilions, gazebos, and even an equestrian center and equestrian trails.

Tree Tops Park’s conservation success story is evident in its lovely preservation of ancient live oaks, wetlands, and tropical hardwood hammocks. And now it’s all part of Broward County Parks and Recreation.

My friend Susan and I recently planned an outing to Tree Tops. We brought sandwiches and drinks and found plenty of tables under a beautiful oak canopy to sit at, where we enjoyed a quiet weekday picnic in nature.

You can get lost in the beauty and peace of this park, surrounded by trees, fauna, foliage, and water. And there is so much to do here. Various features include playgrounds, exercise stations, hiking, observing native plants and wildlife, climbing to the top of an observation tower, boating, fishing, and more. Visitors can rent canoes to explore the waterways, landscapes, and archaeological sites within the park. Equestrians love the 8 miles of dedicated horse trails.

There is also a large event hall, which is where Susan and I headed after we had our picnic lunch. We were driving through the park, looking for signs for a “visitors center,” but they didn’t have any, only to the “park office.” When we got inside that building, Oak Ridge Hall, we realized that’s the place we were trying to find; it has pamphlets, maps, informational displays on the walls, and other things to guide visitors. We just wished they had better signage for visitors looking for the building.

Oak Ridge Hall is a 3,440-square-foot, multipurpose building of natural wood set against an oak hammock and with a beautiful outdoor patio nestled within the trees. This building includes a reception hall, meeting rooms, catering kitchen, and bathrooms. It is available for event rentals.

After we walked all around this grand hall, inside and out, and got the lay of the land, we headed over to our next destination: the boardwalk over the marshland. There was a nice, quiet paved trail to lead us there.

Once we got to the “boardwalk,” we realized this structure wasn’t really walkways made of boards. The floor of this raised walk is cement, not wood, but the side rails are wooden boards, and regardless, we loved the lush natural views all around us. This Marsh Observation Area covers 23 acres of freshwater marsh.

Next, Susan and I wanted to go find the Observation Tower, which is in a different part of the park, so we walked back to our car parked in front of Oak Ridge Hall, and drove to the parking lot indicated on our paper map. Nearby is the 28-foot-high wooden tower, which is only handicap-accessible for the bottom half, with ramps that lead from the ground up to a wooden landing. At the landing, it’s only accessible by way of climbing three staircases to get to the top. Once up there, it’s a great place to observe birds, wildlife, and the dense vegetation all around.

After that, we drove to a small lake we had seen earlier, with picnic tables dotting part of the perimeter, and enjoyed the quiet scenery and wildlife. Even an iguana walked out to the end of a pier and gazed over the water, seeming to also enjoy the nice day.

There is much more to see at Tree Tops Park, including a lakeside cottage (also available for rental), gopher tortoise preserves, a Sam Jones exhibit and statue, a campfire ring for Scouts and other youth groups, and a biking/jogging path that connects to Pine Island Ridge Natural Area. From Tree Tops, it’s easy to access Pine Island Ridge, another park offering its own peaceful connection with nature.

During the week, there is no fee for entering Tree Tops Park. On weekends and holidays, the gate entrance fee is $3/vehicle. Entry is free for people who walk, ride bicycles, or come by horseback into the park. Visit www.broward.org/parks/Pages/Park.aspx?=40.

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Up close with the animals at HAPPI Farm

There’s a small animal-petting farm just off Orange Drive in Davie that isn’t fancy, and it’s not much to see from the outside—but it’s quite special once you get inside. What you’ll find at HAPPI Farm is a nice way for a variety of folks to get up close to farm animals and other creatures, to feed the animals, and to ride a horse or pony.

HAPPI stands for Horse and Petting Pal Interaction, and that’s what they’re all about. Established in 2011, the interactive HAPPI Farm is a nonprofit organization and animal-assisted learning center. The welcoming staff there offer therapeutic riding lessons, equine vaulting, birthday parties, school field trips, and much more.

“We reach out to individuals and groups of all ages, and to those ‘at risk’ or with special needs,” according to HAPPI Farm’s manager. “Our primary goal is to utilize animal-assisted learning and equine therapy to help as many students as possible to develop physically, intellectually, emotionally, and socially. Our programs are natural, safe, fun, and effective! We offer therapeutic horseback riding scholarships to US military veterans.”

In addition, for a $10 donation, people of all ages can drop in during open hours for a walk through the farm and to meet the animals, including being taken on a short horseback ride. My adult son Jacob (on the autism spectrum) and I went to visit recently, and enjoyed our time there. HAPPI Farm is not fancy or expansive—it’s laidback, simple, cluttered, and usually muddy—but you can get down and dirty around the animals, pet some of them, and feed many of them. Visitors can bring cut-up apples and carrots for the animals or buy the food there to give them.

Parking is free and kind of haphazard in a gravel lot right in front of the farm. Jacob and I got out of our car and were soon greeted by a couple emus wandering around on their own. I had to search for the place to make our donation—it was just inside one of the barns, and they also sell the animal food there. We were able to walk around freely and go anywhere on the property. There was one long gravel driveway with barns and animal enclosures on either side—that was the extent of it. We decided to start on the left, explore everything there, then turn around at the horse yard at the end, and walk back to explore the other side of the drive.

Visitors see the horses right away, some being ridden and many in their enclosures. Also on the property are goats, pigs, llamas, chicks, ducks, tortoises, rabbits, guinea pigs, ​a miniature donkey, lamb, alpaca, hedgehog, and miniature bull. ​Reptiles recently were added to the petting farm. Jacob and I enjoyed walking around at our own speed and seeing—and sometimes petting—the various animals on-site.

Because it’s a farm, no sandals or open-toed shoes are permitted. They recommend old shoes or rain boots. We both wore old sneakers. And when we got hot and thirsty, snow cones from a makeshift snack bar were a refreshing treat. The snack bar is right next to a bouncy house (not recommended on a really hot day though), which is a perfect add-on for kids’ birthday parties at the farm. Their parties include the petting farm and short horse rides. The venue is open seven days a week, and parties must be booked in advance.

For an additional $30 for 30 minutes, children and adults can take an on-farm private riding lesson. These horse rides are by appointment only. Professional riding instructors supervise the lessons, assisted by a horse handler and side walkers. Lessons can be oriented to accommodate students with special needs. Participants learn safe equestrian skills and good horsemanship.

The equine therapy program there improves muscular strength, motor coordination, flexibility, posture, balance, endurance, as well as confidence and independence skills. Additionally, hands-on equestrian activities are offered for those who want to develop a relationship with horses and to learn safe equestrian skills. Activities include how to care and feed horses, grooming, saddling, tacking, and leading a horse.

HAPPI Farm promotes unique human-animal bonding for all kinds of people. It’s been beneficial for those with autism, Down’s syndrome, amputations, behavioral and communication disorders, multiple sclerosis, stroke, and visual impairment. But it’s for anybody who would like to come to the farm to pet and feed some animals—and maybe ride a horse.

For more information, go to www.happifarm.org.

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Champion in a pink skirt Coral Springs golf prodigy following in brother’s footsteps

Golf dad Jeremiah Ritchie likens his children’s talent for the game to what Venus and Serena Williams experienced in tennis.

First came Elijah, quiet, studious, and steady. As an 11-year-old, he earned Gold Coast Golf Association Player of the Year honors in 2020. Elijah, now 16, continues to play at a high level in tournaments, clubs, and programs across South Florida.

But his little sister, Gabrielle, is tearing up those same courses at just 9 years old. And she’s doing it with confidence and a little swagger—with long curling braids, perfectly coordinated outfits that lean into shades of pink, and a matching golf bag and rosy-gripped iGen clubs.

She has followed in her brother’s footsteps. They both started to play around age 5. The two take coaching and endless repetition well, practicing roughly two hours a day, with early-morning strength training. And both revel in wearing brightly colored knee socks featuring characters from “SpongeBob SquarePants” and “Rocko’s Modern Life.”

And when brother and sister are on the course, it’s all business. Elijah—his dad calls him “Easy” —easily stays among those at the top of the leaderboard every time he tees it up. But his dad says, “Gabrielle is the one that’s a force to be reckoned with.”

“She’s way more focused, way more resilient,” Elijah says of his loquacious sister. “She’s intense.”

“The comparison with how Venus and Serena came up is an easy one to make,” says Jeremiah Ritchie.

Also, in South Florida, the family legacy of Tiger Woods echoes down the eastern peninsula.

Elijah has played in some of the same youth golf circles as Charlie Woods, but Jeremiah more resembles Tiger’s father Earl Woods than Tiger—proud ex-military, college-educated, and a former athlete with plenty of glory days to look back on. Jeremiah, 47, works for the post office and has coached youth sports. He took up golf at age 33, thinking he could play as he got older—and then, as the story goes, he became obsessed.

To quote Mark Twain: “History doesn’t repeat itself, but it often rhymes.”

The Ritchies, a middle-class family from Coconut Creek, stand out mostly for their pluck and perseverance—and enviable trophy collections—in the lush landscape of South Florida youth golf, where children and grandchildren of paterfamilias Trump, Nicklaus, Norman, and Woods are the most seasoned young golf talent in the country, and they train and play in one of the wealthiest enclaves on the planet.

The Ritchie threesome has benefited from youth development programs like Fore Life (based in Lauderhill) and the Gold Coast Junior Golf Association to learn the game, the etiquette, and life lessons that help make young players more aware and resilient.

Now a rising junior at Transformational Technical Academy in Pompano Beach, Elijah lives and breathes golf, and he sees himself playing in college. He sees Gabrielle going pro.

Elijah said that when he was 9, he won some tournaments, but he wasn’t playing 18-hole rounds. Elijah endured his first full rounds at age 11. “She’s 9—and she’s doing way better than just keeping up,” he said.

In early July, Gabby played in the invitation-only Junior World Championships, hosted at Torrey Pines in San Diego, where she won the putting title for her age group. She played the three official 18-hole rounds of the JWC, plus multiple full practice rounds at Singing Hills Golf Club.

“The trip was fantastic—it was an eye-opener,” Elijah said. “The kids I play with, we never get on a plane to go anywhere. This trip felt like a fantasy—it was fun!”

Elijah helped get the family prepared for each day in San Diego—cleaning clubs, setting out clothes, checking locations, shooting video, keeping things easy. During warm-ups and between rounds, Gabby chatted up fellow players and traded pins in the shape of Florida for similar tokens from kids from across the globe.

“I don’t worry about anything,” Gabby said when asked if she feels pressure to win. “I have a free mind.”

Her dad took the family sightseeing in San Diego, visiting Mission Bay and taking a tour of the USS Midway. “I’d like to keep them kids as long as possible,” he said.

On July 13, the day after their return trip, Gabby took second in the nine-hole Gold Tour July Open at Pompano Beach Golf Course, sponsored by the Gold Coast Junior Golf Foundation.

This season, the rising fourth grader and straight-A student from Winston Park Elementary School has racked up five wins, four second-place finishes, and two third-place honors.

“I noticed from the very start that Gabby isn’t just a youth golfer—she’s a rising star,” pro golfer Micaá Thomas told The Parklander. “Her natural talent, focus, and poise on the course are rare, and I truly believe she has what it takes to dominate the junior tournaments and beyond.”

Thomas currently plays on the ANNIKA Women’s All-Pro Tour and NXXT Women’s Pro Golf Tour, aiming for the LPGA. She met Gabby at ChampionsGate Golf Course in Orlando in March. She said that Gabby’s play reminded her of herself when she started playing at age 10.

“Gabby’s passion for the game, her discipline, and her sweet spirit are a powerful combination that will take her far, not just in golf, but in life,” Thomas said. “I’m so incredibly proud of her!”

The two made quite an impression on each other. After meeting and playing a few holes in Orlando, Gabby wrote Thomas a letter, thanking the tour pro for spending time with her and sharing some pro tips.

She signed off on the letter by drawing flowers, hearts, and golf clubs that looked like little black music notes, and she wrote, “I 🩷 Micaa Thomas.”

Gabby and Elijah are both set to play in the Junior Golf Association Championships, where each player’s odds of adding to their collections of hardware are pretty good.

For Gabby, she’s keeping her aim on following the advice she gets from her dad and big brother. “Just don’t have too many thoughts—ball to target, ball to target,” she said. “Keep my mind free.”

 

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Raising emotionally intelligent leaders

In today’s world, raising a child means navigating a reality dramatically different from the one we grew up in. Screens dominate childhood, and while technology has brought many opportunities, it has also presented serious challenges to a child’s emotional and social development. Working in early childhood education, I’ve seen firsthand how critical it is to equip children not just with academic knowledge, but with the emotional skills necessary to thrive in today’s fast-moving, high-pressure world.

The term emotional intelligence is not new, but it has taken on new urgency. Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage one’s own emotions while also recognizing and responding to the emotions of others. Decades of research, including from the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and Dr. Daniel Goleman’s foundational studies, show that children with strong emotional skills are better equipped to lead, influence, and adapt in high-pressure environments. With stress, anxiety, and disconnection rising rapidly among young children, building these skills isn’t optional. It’s leadership preparation.

In recent years, conscious discipline, rooted in neuroscience and behavioral science, has gained ground. Dr. Becky Bailey’s conscious discipline framework emphasizes that children learn emotional regulation not through punishment or avoidance, but through modeled behavior and intentional connection. Studies at Florida State University and the University of Missouri have shown that children exposed to conscious discipline practices in early education demonstrate higher empathy, better conflict-resolution skills, and increased attention spans—vital 21st-century competencies.

The urgency is amplified by the reality of screen dependency. According to Common Sense Media, children aged 2 to 8 spend an average of 3.8 hours a day on screens outside of schoolwork. The American Academy of Pediatrics has long warned about the impact of excessive screen time on sleep, attention, and emotional regulation. Yet the conversation is no longer just about limiting screens, it’s about actively replacing those hours with meaningful, emotionally rich experiences.

Parents raising future leaders need direct, practical tools. Emotional coaching involves labeling emotions in the moment, validating children’s feelings, and guiding them toward productive coping skills. This does not mean overindulging or shielding children from difficulty. When we do this, we rob them of the small, everyday experiences that build self-esteem, confidence, and a healthy sense of worth. These moments, whether it’s resolving a disagreement with a friend or managing frustration when something doesn’t go their way, are essential for shaping resilient, capable leaders. Leadership is not just about leading others, it’s about trusting one’s voice and having the confidence to navigate challenges. That foundation is built in childhood.

Small, consistent routines foster a leadership mindset that lasts. Predictable morning rituals, mindful breathing exercises, and daily check-ins asking children how they feel equip them with the tools they need. Limiting screen time without a meaningful replacement leads to resistance. The key is substituting digital distractions with activities that nurture social-emotional learning (SEL): unstructured play, open-ended storytelling, collaborative projects, evening walks, and activities that demand teamwork and communication.

Schools must evolve too. Academic rigor alone no longer prepares children for the demands of the future. Programs integrating SEL show improved academic outcomes alongside measurable gains in empathy, resilience, and leadership. Schools that prioritize SEL are not just producing well-behaved students, they are raising leaders.

Parents often ask what they can do when the world feels overwhelming. The answer: Be present. Be intentional. Leave the phone away from the dinner table. Model calm when conflict arises. Validate feelings without rushing to fix them. Build predictable rituals. Replace screens with conversations. If we want our children to lead in the future with compassion and resilience, the work begins at home.

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Exploring science in West Palm Beach

“Open Every Mind to Science”—that’s the slogan of the Cox Science Center and Aquarium in West Palm Beach. It provides visitors, schools, and campers with science programming and tech ventures based on computer coding, robotics, and other science programs. Although it’s not as large as some other science centers, the Cox Center offers an educational and entertaining experience, especially for kids. It has interesting displays, both inside and out. I went to check it out this summer with a friend.

The Cox Center occupies Dreher Park alongside the Palm Beach Zoo, and visitors can get deals for entrance into both facilities. Formerly the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium, this museum has been serving Palm Beach County since 1961, and it’s undergone much renovation and expansion since then. It’s in the midst of an expansion project right now, and we had to walk past construction zones to get into the main building, but it’s still worth a visit. The grand opening to the public is targeted for 2027.

In November 2021, the facility announced its expansion plans along with a name change, thanks to a record donation from Howard and Wendy Cox: “Their $20 million lead gift serves as the keystone for a $115 million capital expansion campaign to take the new Cox Science Center and Aquarium into the future with expanded exhibit and programming spaces, including one of Florida’s largest aquariums.” This expansion plan will also include a three-story, state-of-the-art building with a larger exhibition gallery, enhanced programming spaces, and a full-scale restaurant.

However, Cox has already dramatically renovated its campus in the past decade, including a reconstruction of its 5,000-square-foot Hall of Discovery, a full-dome planetarium, a 1,000-square-foot early childhood exhibit, more than 80 interactive exhibits, a modernized theater, and a new science laboratory. The facility serves more than 300,000 visitors annually, including 130,000 through field trips and educational outreach into schools and classrooms. While we were there, summer camps were going on, and the kids were having a blast.

“Engineers on a Roll” is a hands-on exhibit specially designed for young children, combining elements of an engineering lab, playscape, and climbing area, focused on introducing basic engineering, science, and math concepts through play. There’s a “river of balls” that children can direct, sort, and experiment with, encouraging them to explore and learn.

If ocean learning sparks young ones’ curiosity, they can check out Explorers’ Cove, where little adventurers can dive into a world of ocean discovery, with up-close investigations and interactive adventures. Kids can look for sea treasures, climb through an underwater adventure, and look through microscopes for close-up views of ocean life.

In the Florida Exhibit Hall are “Aquariums of the Atlantic,” with 10,000 gallons of water housing native fish such as queen angels, spadefish, moray eels, and stingrays. The different habitats on display here will take you through the depths of our coral reefs and Florida’s diverse ecosystems of the Everglades, the Gulf Stream, and the open ocean.

Outside in “the backyard” of the museum, there’s a quarter-mile-long Fisher Family Science Trail, which connects 15 new exhibits, including the FPL SolarScape, an interactive splash pad, a gem panning station, an amphitheater featuring live science shows and seasonal concerts, and and a dinosaur walk. Dino Trek, the cool dinosaur garden, drew in even us older visitors. Families can imagine trekking through a prehistoric wonderland and pose for pictures in front of the life-size dinosaurs.

For more adventure, there is a limited-time exhibition, Mission Aerospace, which invites visitors to “embark on a multilayered exploration of aviation history, aerospace milestones, and some of NASA’s trail-blazing discoveries that are shaping our world every day.” For an additional cost, explorers can go on this mission through Sept. 28 and learn about NASA’s exciting new vision for the future, its research, and the global benefits it’s providing. Group discounts are available.

So, Cox Science Center is constantly growing and expanding and bringing more mind-opening science fun to families in South Florida. You may have to pardon their dust for a while, but a trip there may be well worth it in your near future.

The Cox Science Center and Aquarium is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, go to www.coxsciencecenter.org.

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Food tips for summer travel with kids

Long-anticipated summer travel is not without its nutritional challenges, and adding young children to the mix multiplies those challenges. There’s more to consider than packing a few extra snacks and baby wipes. Follow these tips for a healthy, happy, and nourishing vacation with kids.

Road Trips

Logging a lot of miles in the car may have your kids asking for snacks to ease the boredom. Anticipate this and be prepared. Work with your kids on a list of boredom-busting activities, including games, music, videos, coloring books, and more. Before starting the car, review the day’s schedule. Explain when and where you’ll eat, and make a strong effort to stick to your normal eating schedule.

Pack some of these travel-friendly foods for children over the age of 4, as some may pose a choking risk for younger children. If your child is at risk of choking, enjoy your food at a rest stop so you can supervise while eating. Keep perishable items in a cooler with ice to reduce your chances of foodborne illness when on vacation.

  • Sliced bell peppers, cucumbers, or other easy-to-eat veggies
  • Applesauce
  • Dried and fresh fruit
  • Popcorn
  • Trail mix
  • Peanut butter sandwiches
  • Whole-grain crackers
  • Low-fat milk boxes
  • 100% fruit or vegetable juice
  • Low-fat yogurt
  • Cheese sticks
  • Cottage cheese

Don’t forget portable eating utensils and plenty of napkins and wipes. (If your kids don’t eat dairy products, learn more about nourishing plant-based foods you can pack at EatRight.org.)

Have your kids come up with fun meal ideas where they combine their favorite snack with another item you purchase at a restaurant. Kids can combine different lean proteins with whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to build a balanced meal or snack that’s part retail, part from home. In the end, you will save money and eat healthier. Water, milk, or a fortified milk alternative are good beverage choices, and even restaurant meals should include fruits and vegetables. If the restaurant doesn’t offer good options, fill in with the supply in your cooler.

A Stay at the Beach

Whether you’re hitting the beach for a day or staying for a week, the same guidelines apply. Try to stick as closely to your normal eating schedule as possible. Bring a cooler with some of the foods listed above and plenty of ice. Pack ample water and encourage frequent sipping. The hot sun can be dehydrating, and the cool ocean water and tons of fun can distract kids from drinking fluids.

Cruising Along

Food is present constantly on cruise ships—and in big, showy ways. Remind children that just because food is available doesn’t mean the family needs to eat it. Be a role model to your kids and encourage them to eat mindfully when they are hungry.

Travel Abroad

If you are traveling far or to places with new types of cultures, work with your family on planning where to eat in advance of your trip. Most restaurants around the world provide nutrition information online so you can plan on choosing the nutritious items that you have researched. Being in a new culture also is a great time to get your family to try new foods.

Visiting Family or Friends

Whether you’re traveling with others or staying in their homes, you may run into well-meaning food pushers. Give relatives and friends a kind heads-up to your expectations when it comes to offering food to your children. Help them find other ways to express love and warmth, such as reading a story or taking your child for a special outing.

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Back to school without the breakdown: A parent’s guide

Summer flew by in a blur of sunscreen, pool days, and late bedtimes. Now it’s August, and the back-to-school countdown is on. Whether your child is starting kindergarten, heading into middle school, or gearing up for high school, the shift from summer mode to school mode is real. And while the kids are the ones picking out backpacks and supplies, parents are along for every step of the ride.

Before the chaos kicks in, take a moment to breathe. We’ve put together this practical, no-nonsense guide with tips from local parents and teachers who’ve been there. It’s everything you need to start the school year feeling a little more ready—and a lot less stressed.

 

  1. Start Bedtime Boot Camp

As the first day of school gets closer, it helps to gradually shift back to earlier bedtimes and wake-up times. Starting this a week or two in advance can make the transition smoother for everyone. Getting back into a routine now can mean less stress—and fewer struggles—once school mornings begin.

 

  1. Keep the Drop-Off Line Moving

A quick reminder: The car line is meant for drop-offs, not long chats. Staying efficient helps everyone get through the morning smoothly—especially those on a tight schedule.

 

  1. Master the Art of the “Grab-and-Go”
    Breakfast doesn’t need to be fancy—just functional. Think yogurt tubes, banana muffins, overnight oats. Anything they can eat one-handed while looking for a missing shoe.

 

  1. Buy Twice the School Supplies
    Glue sticks vanish. Scissors walk away. Crayons break on impact. Buy extra while it’s cheap and hide a backup stash somewhere safe (a.k.a. where your kids will never look).

 

  1. Establish the After-School Game Plan
    Whether it’s sports, homework, or general decompressing, having a rough routine helps prevent that 3 p.m. chaos from turning into full-blown meltdown hour—for both of you.

 

  1. Set Email Boundaries
    At the elementary school level, you’re going to get emails. Lots of them. From teachers, the PTO, class parents, fundraising committees, and people you didn’t know had your address. Pick a day (or two) to check and respond—it’s the best way to stay in the loop without getting overwhelmed.

 

  1. Stock the Car with Emergency Snacks
    You might think you’re just picking up your child from school, but chances are you’re greeting a very hungry kid who hasn’t eaten since lunch. Keeping a few snacks in the car can make the ride home a lot smoother—for both of you.

 

  1. Don’t Try to Do It All
    You don’t have to sign up for every volunteer slot, bring in themed snacks, or keep track of every spirit day. Focus on what feels manageable for your family, and let the rest go. Most kids won’t remember the little details—but they will remember that you showed up when it counted.

 

  1. Prep for the Sick Day Shuffle.
    It’s coming. Someone will get a mystery fever at the worst possible time. Keep medicine, saltines, and backup child-care plans in place before it hits.

 

  1. Celebrate the Little Wins.
    Lunches packed? That’s a win. Everyone wore shoes to school? Celebrate it. Some days, survival is the victory.

 

Back-to-school is never seamless. There will be forgotten forms, mismatched socks, and days when dinner is just cereal. But there will also be growth, milestones, and the occasional sweet, quiet moment when you realize—you’re doing okay.

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Beat the heat Where to stay cool this summer in Broward, Palm Beach counties

Florida summers can be relentless, but there’s no reason to stay cooped up waiting for sunset. Across Broward and Palm Beach counties, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season while staying cool—whether that means lacing up skates at the ice rink or spending an afternoon at a trampoline park. Here are some of the best spots to keep your family active, entertained, and out of the heat this summer.

Bowl and Cool Off

Bowling is always a reliable go-to when it’s too hot to be outside. Sawgrass Lanes in Tamarac is great for families, with plenty of lanes, arcade games, and food. Strikes in Boca Raton offers a vibrant, modern atmosphere with neon lights and an on-site sports bar—perfect for a group hangout or something low-key on a hot afternoon

Chill Out with Indoor Ice Skating

For a full-on escape from the heat, head to Panther IceDen in Coral Springs. The rink offers public skating throughout the week and is a fun, low-stress way to stay active indoors. It’s great for families, beginners, or anyone in the mood for a cool new activity.

Trampoline Parks for High-Energy Indoor Fun

Too hot for the playground? Sky Zone in Pompano Beach delivers wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, and dodgeball courts. Urban Air Adventure Park in Coral Springs ups the ante with climbing walls, obstacle courses, and even a virtual reality zone. Both are air-conditioned and perfect for burning off extra energy.

Indoor Adventure Parks with Something for Everyone

Xtreme Action Park in Fort Lauderdale is one of the biggest indoor fun zones in South Florida, with go-karts, roller skating, escape rooms, bowling, and more. For the younger crowd, Flippo’s Indoor Playground & Café nearby is ideal, with climbing structures, soft play zones, and interactive games in a cool, safe space.

Splash Parks and Pools

Nothing beats the heat like a day spent splashing around. Waters Edge Park in Tamarac has a splash pad with sprayers and shaded seating—great for younger kids. In Boca Raton, Coconut Cove Waterpark brings the full package with a lazy river, slides, and a big splash playground.

A Peaceful, Shaded Escape at Butterfly World

For something quieter, Butterfly World in Coconut Creek offers a calm, scenic outing. With covered walkways, lush greenery, and misting fans, it’s surprisingly comfortable, even on steamy days. It’s a great pick for relaxed family time or out-of-town guests.

Beach Clubs for a Breezy Daycation

Looking for a cool coastal escape without committing to a resort stay? Apps like DayPass and ResortPass make it easy to book daily beach and pool access at select local hotels. You can enjoy perks like loungers, towel service, poolside dining, and beachfront views—all without being an overnight guest. Spots like Plunge Beach Resort in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea and other nearby hotels often offer passes starting around $30–$60 per day. It’s a relaxed, convenient way to enjoy a little luxury and stay cool by the water.

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Vegetarian cookout ideas for summer

Summer brings the unofficial start of grilling season. For some vegetarians and vegans, however, this means making do at backyard picnics with the same old appetizers or soggy green salads. But barbecues do not have to be a washout for those who do not eat meat. Classic cookout foods can easily be transformed into delicious vegetarian or vegan fare.

Main Dishes

When hosting, be sure to offer some sort of plant-based protein, which can be as simple as a chilled bean salad! You will also find meat-free burgers and hot dogs in most grocery stores. Or, if you are feeling adventurous, create your own homemade burgers made from beans, rice grains, or tofu.

Side Dishes

From pasta salad and quinoa salad, to pickled veggies and pico de gallo, there are lots of plant-based options to serve at your cookout.

Grilled vegetables are satisfying no matter what your eating pattern! Marinated and grilled portobello mushroom caps are tasty and offer a savory flavor that can be appealing to vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Or skewer mushrooms, peppers, squash, and tomatoes, then grill them until slightly charred.

Deviled eggs, potato salad, and macaroni salads are possible food choices for lacto-ovo vegetarians, and they can be modified for vegans by altering some of these recipes, such as substituting certain ingredients with dairy- and egg-free products. Try a vinegar-based dressing for broccoli or green bean salad. Or make a simple chopped salad using canned chickpeas, tomatoes, cucumber, and bell peppers.

For a more nutritious chip option, offer guests homemade kale or collard chips. Another traditional favorite is grilled corn on the cob.

 Desserts

You cannot go wrong with fresh seasonal fruit such as watermelon slices and an assortment of berries. If you’re looking for something more indulgent, soy, almond, cashew, and coconut milk–based ice creams command more shelf space in today’s frozen food aisle, and for good reason—they taste absolutely delicious! And if you want to join in for some s’mores around the campfire, gelatin-free marshmallows guarantee your place. Grilling? Try peaches, mangoes, pineapples, bananas, and other fruit. The heat caramelizes their natural sweetness.

On the Road

New vegetarians and vegans often find it difficult to ask hosts about food—what will be served and how it will be prepared. Most hosts, however, want their guests to enjoy themselves, so let them know you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet. You may be pleasantly surprised by their response. Some hosts will even go so far as to prepare dishes that are vegetarian- or vegan-friendly or at least not mind if you bring your own food.

If most dishes include meat, dairy, eggs, or cheese, offer to bring food to share with the crowd so you will not go hungry. As a courtesy, let the host know, as there may already be a crowded refrigerator or limited oven space—in which case, you can bring your own cooler or decide on a different recipe.

You will also want to follow good food safety practices. Bacteria grow rapidly between 40 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit, and vegetarians and vegans are not immune to food poisoning. Keep perishable foods in the refrigerator until you are ready to leave, and then keep cold foods chilled in an ice-filled cooler or by packing with frozen gel packs. If you are bringing food that is already hot, transport in a thermal container to help retain its heat. These foods should be reheated to a minimum internal temperature of 165 degrees once you arrive. Enjoy!

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Trooper’s Law and the importance of animal hurricane preparations

As hurricane season approaches, a new law is going into effect to further protect dogs. Trooper’s Law, effective Oct. 1, will make it a third-degree felony to abandon a restrained dog during a natural disaster. The measure was inspired by Trooper, the bull terrier who made national headlines last year when state troopers found him tied to a fence and left in belly-high water on Interstate 75 during Hurricane Milton evacuations.

Trooper was adopted by Parkland residents Frank and Carla Spina and was honored at Parkland City Hall in January. “The state troopers appeared and presented him with a ‘Junior Trooper’ Florida Highway Patrol badge, which he wears around his collar,” says Frank Spina.

After being rescued and adopted, Trooper went through an even greater ordeal, requiring surgery to remove cancerous tumors from his body, and then undergoing a four-hour endoscopy to remove more than 100 pieces of garbage from his stomach. Thankfully, the procedures went well, and Trooper is now thriving.

Trooper and the Spinas have been invited to witness Governor Ron DeSantis officially sign Trooper’s legislation into law. “The governor and his wife are very big proponents of Trooper,” says Spina. “They think the world of him.”

Trooper’s situation was not the first to force lawmakers to expand protections for animals during natural disasters. The Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards Act of 2006, known as the PETS Act, was passed and codified into federal law following the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, when an estimated 200,000 pets were stranded and close to 150,000 perished during the storm. The act requires states to include the needs of households with pets and service animals in emergency preparedness operational plans in order to receive federal funding for those plans.

Florida was one of the first states to revise disaster relief plans to include household pets and service animals, creating pet-friendly shelters and aiding in pet evacuation and transport. But where the law still falls short is in protecting farm animals, including horses. Because they are not considered household pets, the PETS Act does not require states to incorporate hoofed animals into their emergency plans, and Florida does not have specific legal protections for these animals during hurricanes, despite the need for it. During Hurricane Ian, one dairy farmer in Myakka City lost 250 dairy cows.

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services offers guidelines on disaster preparedness for horses, livestock, and pets, which include what to consider when sheltering in place or evacuating. For horse and livestock owners, it’s important to maintain contact with private businesses and nonprofits as many of them often step up during a storm, offering aid and/or shelter. During Hurricane Ian, the World Equestrian Center in Ocala provided free shelter for 3,000 horses, and American Humane helped rescue farm animals stranded during the storm.

Many of these organizations also offer free online resources on making preparations for your animals in case of a hurricane. It’s never too soon to prepare.

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Tomorrow’s Rainbow When tragedy creates new purpose

Abby Mosher turned a personal tragedy into purpose, creating one of the most magical places for children in Coconut Creek—Tomorrow’s Rainbow.

Tomorrow’s Rainbow is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides free mental health support services for children ages 3 through 18, their caregivers, and adults healing from grief, loss, or trauma. What makes Tomorrow’s Rainbow special is that it incorporates animals—specifically, horses, goats, and mini donkeys—into its program, providing outdoor, experiential sessions where children explore their world through interactions with the animals.

This year, Tomorrow’s Rainbow will celebrate its 20th year of providing these life-saving services to children—services inspired by Mosher’s difficult loss. On a family vacation in Texas 25 years ago, a head-on collision took the life of Mosher’s husband, Paul. She and her 7-year-old son, Dustin, survived but were thrust into a world of grief and loss that didn’t have many resources available for children.

“When we came back to Florida, I thought, with Broward County being the sixth-largest school district in the nation, that there’d be tons of resources available,” says Mosher. “But I found that Broward County had no children’s grief center.”

Thankfully, Mosher had insurance, so her son was able to receive individual therapy. But that therapy had its limitations. “The social isolation for him was devastating,” explains Mosher. “He didn’t have a single friend he could relate to.”

That’s when Mosher decided she wanted to create a space where families could come together with other families who knew what it was like to have someone important in their life die. She also wanted to make it accessible for those who couldn’t afford individual therapy.

Mosher didn’t know at the time that her newfound dream would quickly align with her childhood dream of owning a horse. Through her work with the parent-teacher association, she knew Wally Hennessey, a Hall of Fame harness track racer. She and her son would go to the track to watch Hennessey race.

“After the race, Wally would take his goggles off, and he’d be covered in sand, and the horse’s nostrils would be flaring from winning the race, and Wally would be perfectly peaceful,” recalls Mosher, who wanted whatever that peacefulness was. When the Hennesseys introduced her to a woman with miniature horses, she knew the animals had to be part of her program.

Three years later, Mosher met her current husband, Shel, and shared with him her dream of supporting grieving children with horses, and he was on board. Together, they purchased a 2.5-acre mini-ranch adjacent to Tradewinds Park, and in 2005, Tomorrow’s Rainbow opened its doors.

It wasn’t until after opening and going through trainings with the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association that Mosher realized how powerful horses are in the healing process. “Horses are the only animal that can mirror our behavior,” explains Mosher. “The horse is the mirror for the child. So if the child doesn’t like what they see, if they adjust themselves, the horse will adjust as well.” Mosher likens it to a football player watching game tapes to get better. With horses, you watch their behavior to improve your own.

Tomorrow’s Rainbow offers bereavement group sessions and individual equine-assisted psychotherapy. When children first arrive, they undergo a screening process. Those who have suffered trauma in addition to grief are put into individual equine-assisted psychotherapy, where they work with a horse, an equine specialist, and a therapist. “We have to support the trauma before we can support the grief,” explains Mosher. “So we get them into our individual services and then when they’re ready, they can transfer to our bereavement group services.”

A bereavement session begins with introductions under a large tree, followed by an activity, horse grooming/interaction, and then play. “Kids can’t stay in their grief for a long time,” explains Mosher. “So we have to have opportunities for them to laugh and be kids.” During the bereavement session, adults are in a facilitated talk circle and given some psychoeducation on raising grieving children.

Children often tell their stories through the activities, acting out what happened at the puppet theater, or building something related to their loss at the LEGO table. Program facilitators are trained to honor the children’s stories and provide the space for them to express without judgment or shame. “We’re not teaching them how to grieve,” explains Mosher. “Children are experts in their own grief. We are supporting them. We’re not giving advice, we’re not problem-solving. It’s not a problem we can fix.”

At the end of a session, children are taken into a room filled with teddy bears where they can symbolically light a candle to remember their loved one. These charming, child-friendly touches run across the property, from the puppet theater to the teddy bear hospital to the wishing well. “We have dissolving paper so the children can write messages to their loved ones and put them in the wishing well, and the paper will dissolve, but the words will stay floating on top of the water until they’re ready to swirl it,” says Mosher.

To ensure that children of all economic backgrounds have access to these services, there is no cost for the bereavement groups. A combination of corporate and private donations, along with grants from organizations including Parkland Cares, Broward Behavioral Health Coalition, and the Jim Moran Foundation, helps offset the cost of individual psychotherapy sessions, which are normally $150 per hour. The organization runs on a tight budget, but for Mosher, the priority is the impact these services have on children.

“They come in with the weight of the world on their shoulders, and they leave joyful,” enthuses Mosher. “The energy completely changes when they realize they’re not alone and they don’t have all that stuff bottled up inside anymore, because they had a safe space for it to come out. And nobody made fun of them, nobody told them how to feel, and nobody tried to change them in any way, they just honored their journey.”

In addition to its on-site work, Tomorrow’s Rainbow has a “Grief on the Go” trailer to support underserved communities in Broward and Palm Beach counties through partnerships with nonprofits that work with at-risk children.

For Mosher, Tomorrow’s Rainbow has become her life’s mission. “I feel like I don’t work a day in my life,” she says. “To see the children and the impact this program has on their lives is a blessing. I knew we were going to help children heal. But what I didn’t know is that we would literally be saving lives, and that’s pretty powerful.”

For more information, visit TomorrowsRainbow.org.

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