Spring Break: What's a parent to do?

In Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties, public schools are in recess March 14 - March 18.
I was chatting with a co-worker who is still considering options - including taking the week off to be with her daughter and participate in a swimming program.
But for many parents, that's not a possibility.
In the past - I've enrolled my kid in tennis camp, martial arts and general park camps. He's spent school day holidays at a science museum; taking swimming lessons; and with family.
Depending on the child's age - parents of pre-K and early elementary age children might not want them in camps that go on field trips - or emphasize day-long outdoor activities.
But a half-day camp could be a problem for parents who lack transportation or flexibility with work and bosses.
Network with other parents of children who attend your child's pre-K/ elementary- or middle school. Ask where their kid is going to spend spring break. See if you can partner up on transportation and other resources.
South Florida has a wealth of venues and activities for kids of all ages.
Check out our own South Florida Parenting for its camp guide; and each issue is chockablock full of activities and resources for kids.
Admittedly, most people have moved on and are already planning on what to do with their kids for the summer break. And most camp ads are going to promote those programs.
So, are you still planning on planning what to do with you child for Spring Break? Then, what are you waiting for?





On most occasions, I pack The Kid’s lunch in a brown paper bag. He folds it up and closes it between pages of a book after lunch, that way, he isn’t carry a bulky empty object. He re-uses the bag til the thing basically dies – up to a month or more sometimes. I wrap his sandwich in wax paper sheets. (I love the wax bags but can never find them.) Sometimes his drink is a water in a bottle he re-uses, or box drinks.
Renegade Lunch Lady” Chef Ann Cooper will partner with Whole Foods Market to launch the Virtual Lunch Box Web Portal, which will enable administrators and like-minded “lunch ladies” throughout the country to reform their meal plans by offering the necessary tools and resources. The portal will serve as the most comprehensive, easily accessible, and free set of resources available, offering scalable recipes, training resources and educational tools.
few books – you might have to re-direct them away from their iPod Touch, video games and computers.
fashion sense – none. Nada.




I cannot understand how people idle their cars indefinitely. Aren't they as concerned about our energy problems as I am?




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I heard a primal scream and recognized my daughter Ellie's voice. I ran over to the computer to see what had happened. Someone had stolen the furniture from her Webkinz house!
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