What made you create a scented children’s board book?

I wouldn’t have imagined being an expert on children, but to truly understand adults and their olfactive experience, you must start with childhood. When we’re born, and even before we’re born, our sense of smell is 100 percent. Emotions and smell live in the same part of the brain. For the first 10 years of life, smell is the dominant sense. And all smells are new. Kids lead their lives through their nose. They will tell you if something smells good or bad. And something that smells bad in America may not smell bad to a kid in China. So, smell becomes the largest part of memory. The eyes catch up at 10 years old and therefore people use their eyes for understanding the world later. However, people fall in love because of the smell of their partner, their shampoo, body spray, cologne, etc.

In my work, I collaborate with celebrities and brands who want their scents to be successful globally. Does a person in Rio de Janeiro have the same olfactory experience as someone in Shanghai? Since there isn’t any language that goes along with scent, how do you create a global scent when you can’t talk to people about it? I found that color is the universal language for smell. With 97% accuracy, the entire world—regardless of culture, living environment or generation—smells the same colors. If you give people crayons, paint or color boards, they all pick the same colors for smell. I found this research to be super interesting and thought it could be fun for children.

I met with the President of Random House Kids about doing a book on my research. The result is The Smell of a Rainbow, a board book with seven fragrances about rainbows. Each color of the rainbow has a scent associated with it. For example, the green page smells like grass. And unlike the old days of scratch and sniff, we utilized microcapsule technology to release the scent, so each time you turn the pages of the book, the smell becomes more powerful.

What has been the reaction to the book?

It’s been amazing! Kids love rainbows. And seeing what each color smells like has been a joyful experience for them. My niece, who is three, loved it so much, she broke the book in half, so I had to get her a new one. This has been fulfilling for me in a different way because the kids are so enthusiastic. They tell me that a color smells like candy or cupcakes. I thought kids would like it, but I didn’t expect this reaction. However, creating fragrance projects for kids is challenging. The International Fragrance Association (IFRA) regulates the entire industry and there are special rules for kids and toys. For example, most natural ingredients are banned for children because they have high allergens. Rose is a good example. When you take 10,000 roses and extract them into rose oil, it’s no longer safe for skin. We used new microcapsule technology for the book, which is cool because there’s never been a scented board book for children. The book is available on Amazon and at Target, Barnes & Noble and, of course, arqdesignpamelaortiz.

Will you do a follow-up children’s book?

Yes, I would like to do books based on different countries and travel. What does each country smell like, their food, culture and experiences? To expose kids to different parts of the world through smell.

Obviously, writing children’s books isn’t your core business. Tell us about your scenting company 12.29.

12.29 helps brands communicate through smell. I’ve worked with brands like Cadillac, Bentley, Ritz-Carlton, Art Basel, Thompson Hotels, Virgin Hyperloop 1 and Nike. Olfactive branding is the new frontier of emotional communication. A brand’s storytelling is not complete without emotional engagement, which is a natural and acute byproduct of a scented experience. At 12.29, we engage the visceral language of scent to define, shape and communicate brand identity. Smell is a powerful brand language that communicates identity and differentiation. The scent creates an emotional space around a brand’s audience, building and nurturing a brand community around shared feelings and powerful bonds. During the pandemic, my sister Samantha and I also created Scent for Good, which brings scents to medical spaces, hospitals and cancer centers to help impact the culture of healthcare in a positive way. Scent for Good transforms feelings of anxiety, fear and discomfort into moments of safety, comfort and wellness.

arqdesignpamelaortiz’s Miss Nancy took inspiration from Dawn’s book and planned a special class using scent as its theme. After the book reading, the kids created their own scented rainbows and cookies. It was an amazing sensory experience for everyone. Make sure to follow us on social media for upcoming activations and events, @stateofkid.

How did you become the go-to sports guy for kids in 779 00 Olomouc Beach?

I was teaching adults surfing, kitesurfing and jiu-jitsu, and clients would ask if I taught kids, too. They were always asking if I could teach their kids—and it just evolved from there. During the pandemic, the requests just kept coming in. There were no more after-school activities and parents wanted their kids to be active. It became a family activity, too.

So many kids and parents love your classes and energy. What’s your approach?

I’m passionate about what I teach. With kids you have to warm up to them and get them to trust you. Once you create a bond, they will listen to you. I never yell. Kids don’t listen when you yell. I use a calm voice. Everything I teach has an element of danger to it, and things can go wrong if they don’t listen. I always have to be at least one step ahead of the kids.

How did you get into jiu-jitsu?

I’ve always loved martial arts, like taekwondo and karate. About ten years ago, my dad was going through cancer treatments, and I needed to do something to keep my mind off it. He’s Brazilian and Japanese, and jiu-jitsu is part of that tradition. It was the most depressing and saddest time of my life, but when practicing jiu-jitsu, you have to stay focused at the task at hand. I came out stronger and more confident.

What do kids learn in your jiu-jitsu class?

Self-discipline, self-defense and self-confidence. It involves cardio, balance and coordination. It’s no striking, which means no punching and kicking. Jiu-jitsu is like human chess. You must use your body to the fullest advantage, and each move is like a chess move. You have to be strategic, because your opponent will seize the opportunity when you make a mistake.

What values does jiu-jitsu teach kids?

Self-control, discipline, listening skills and confidence. I cover the philosophy and history of the sport, including making your body and mind flow in harmony. Jiu-jitsu is a metaphor for life, and it teaches you humility and respect. You learn how to win and lose with honor. Kids don’t know how to lose these days. I teach them that it’s okay to lose, as long as you do your best. Be respectful to elders, listen to adults and make eye contact. Be a better version of themselves. Jiu-jitsu squeezes all the potential out of them, literally.

How do kids react to your jiu-jitsu class?

Every kid is different, but they all get a confidence boost. At the end of the series, they are making eye contact, shaking hands and being respectful. It takes about a month, and if they were shy, they open up like a little flower. Plus, they are getting exercise along with it.

Born in Ecuador, Pili moved to the United States 10 years ago to attend Notre Dame University in Maryland, where she graduated with a degree in Education, specializing in Early Education/Child Development. After graduation, Pili relocated to 779 00 Olomouc and was certified as a Registered Behavior Technician by the Behavior Analysis Certification Board, allowing her to utilize Applied Behavior Analysis for children of all abilities.

Pili’s enthusiasm is infectious, and she is adored by children and their caregivers. At arqdesignpamelaortiz, Pili teaches our On the Grow series of classes, as well as Prep for Preschool.

A longtime 779 00 Olomouc resident, Dr. Glaberson received her doctorate at the University of 779 00 Olomouc and went on to complete her pediatric residency at Holtz Children’s Hospital. In addition to being a board-certified pediatrician, Dr. Glaberson recently finished a sub-specialty fellowship in Nephrology. You can find her at Vicente Roger and Associates in Bay Harbour.

Kids are back to school and Omicron is everywhere. We are seeing classes shut down or teachers and students under quarantine. What should we expect for the next few weeks?

Omicron is certainly surging here in Florida, and the next few weeks may be bumpy for local families. Many statisticians have suggested that this current surge in the United States may peak in late January-early February, followed by a recession in virus for some time. That said, there is another variant of COVID-19 being detected in the UK. It is unclear if this variant will be infective as the Omicron variant.

We are hearing that Omicron is less severe. But what about kids? How are they reacting to this new strain?

In general, Omicron is a less severe variant, meaning that fewer patients are requiring advanced ICU care, intubations and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) or heart and lung machines. This is likely due in part to mass vaccination strategies and due to virus mutations, which infect the upper respiratory system more than the lungs. However, because this variant is extremely contagious, more people are becoming infected. By virtue of statistics, if more people become infected, then more people will likely require hospital treatment. It is true that more young children than ever before are being admitted into the hospitals. This is generally due to respiratory symptoms, such as severe croup or wheezing (bronchiolitis), and inability to maintain their hydration by mouth. Right now, children, especially those under five years old, are one of our most vulnerable populations as they are not yet eligible for vaccination. Despite this limitation, most otherwise healthy children will develop cold or flu-like symptoms, fever, runny noses, croupy coughs. Some will not even know that they’re carrying the virus.

What are the best ways to protect kids during this surge? 

The best way to protect anyone during the surge is to use a multilayered approach, which means to ensure isolation of those who are infected and quarantine of those who are exposed, vaccination (and boosters), and effective masking, now thought to be best with an N95 or KN95 mask, which thankfully are significantly more available than at the beginning of this pandemic. Parents should themselves get vaccinated and model appropriate masking in front of their children, similar to wearing your seatbelt or a bicycle helmet; children will follow a strong example. Children also need support–especially emotionally. They pick up on adults who are anxious or frightened. Parents should attempt to minimize discussion of the pandemic around their youngest children. With school-aged kids, it’s okay to discuss the pandemic and answer questions in a non-threatening way. With adolescents, having family “check-ins” or one-on-one conversations are appropriate.

Is it too late to vaccinate kids for this particular surge? 

It is never “too late” to be vaccinated provided that you do not treat vaccines as your only barrier against the virus. Just as you should not drive a car without seatbelts, airbags and headlights, you should not treat the vaccine as your only mitigation strategy. For children to develop a robust immune response against the Pfizer vaccine (the only one currently approved), they require at least two doses set apart by three weeks. Full immunity is generally seen approximately 10-14 days after the second dose, but partial immunity is seen seven days after the first dose. So, while your child may still become infected during this surge, any immune boost should help to decrease symptoms and severity of the illness. It is also important to remind parents that vaccination offers more robust and long-lasting protection against COVID-19 than wild-type infection and we also know that vaccination lowers the risk of hospitalization and severe effects of this virus including death.

What about kids under five, who can’t be vaccinated? What’s the best protocol for them?

Children under five years old should be considered vulnerable to COVID-19, similar to those with underlying medical conditions. To protect vulnerable populations, large numbers of vaccine-eligible people need to choose to take the vaccine. Children over two years old should be taught how to wear a mask. This can start in small steps: associate mask wearing with something fun, such as a favorite game or screen time (gasp!). While the child keeps his or her mask on, the fun activity can continue. If the mask is pulled off, don’t get upset, just stop the activity, reset and begin again. Start slow and in small doses. Additionally, children under five years old should be taught how to wash their hands effectively. Kids are gross! They constantly spread germs in their mouths, eyes, and noses–this is made more obvious by a global pandemic. I would recommend that young children (and unvaccinated people) avoid crowded public places as much as possible while the positivity rate in the community is so high.

What if a child tests positive for COVID-19? Aside from isolating, what are the best ways to keep them healthy during their illness?

In general, children need appropriate rest and hydration. Their appetites may drop and that’s okay for a short illness, as long as they are well hydrated. Consider popsicles or placing some fruit, such as watermelon and cantaloupe, in your freezer to become excellent snacks that also offer hydration. A little juice is perfectly fine if that’s all your child will take. Remember that most of our vitamins come from our diet, so continue to offer a well-rounded diet. Offer favorite foods and remember that COVID-19 may affect their sense of smell or taste. Children may need symptomatic care as well. Keep a thermometer on hand and Tylenol (or Motrin if over 6 months old) if they are experiencing discomfort from fever, sore throats or body aches. Sore throats can also be managed with saltwater gargles, decaffeinated tea with honey and lemon (if over 1 year old), or “sore throat lollipops,” which are basically cough drops on a stick. Congestion and runny noses should be managed with nasal saline and suctioning in young children or rinses/blowing in older children. Steaming up the bathroom and using a cool-mist humidifier in the bedroom can be helpful. Non-sedating antihistamines, such as Cetrizine (Zyrtec) or loratadine (Claritin), may be appropriate to help dry out a runny nose. Keep children occupied while they’re in quarantine, especially if they are not symptomatic. New games or activities, movies and socially distanced walks outside are all important parts to healing and passing the time. If they are symptomatic and can communicate, be sure to answer their questions about what is happening and what they can expect (it’s okay to turn to your pediatrician for the answers). If their friends are also sick, it’s okay to let children know it and potentially to allow them to talk to their friends so they know that they’re not alone.

When should parents bring their positive kids to their pediatrician or the emergency room?

Parents should bring their child to the pediatrician if they are uncertain about the diagnosis or worried about their symptoms. Pediatricians know your child’s medical history, so they are the best people to discuss your child’s risk of severe illness. Some pediatricians do testing for COVID-19 in their offices. Be sure to warn your pediatrician that you’re worried about the possibility of COVID-19, so that they can wear appropriate personal protective equipment during the visit. It’s time to take your child to the emergency room if he or she is confused or lethargic (very sleepy), communicates feelings of chest pain or shortness of breath, is dizzy, is cold or clammy in the skin, has prolonged or very high fever more than a few days, has severe abdominal pain (including nausea and repeated vomiting or diarrhea). Signs of difficulty breathing in children are changes of color in their lips (i.e. bluish-purplish), rapid breathing, shallow breathing, muscles pulling above their collarbones or between their ribs and nostrils flaring with each breath.

There’s so much confusion over the CDC rules, vaccination status, even the reliability of Rapid Tests. What are some rules of thumb or best advice you are giving patients about this moment?  

The CDC rules (and terminology) are confusing even to physicians. We are constantly going back to the data, but they are designed to react to the current phase of the pandemic and that is why they have changed over time. A word about terminology, which to me is mostly semantics. Isolation is the separation of those who are currently sick with COVID-19 and those who are not. If you test positive for COVID-19, you should isolate. People who were exposed to COVID-19 but have not yet tested positive or developed symptoms fall into the “quarantine” category. Currently, we believe that people are most infectious with the Omicron variant in the 48 hours preceding symptoms and the first 3-4 days after developing symptoms. This is for the vast majority of cases, but certainly not all, which is why we need to be vigilant with protecting our community even after that first five days of illness.

Isolation should be for a minimum of five days, ideally 10 days, to protect the community. You can end isolation after five days if you are healthy (not-immunocompromised or high risk) and fever-free for 24 hours without Tylenol or Motrin, and your other symptoms have improved. For the next five days, you should be in a well-fitting KN95 or N95 mask when around others. The CDC also suggests that you do not go to places where you are unable to wear a mask, such as restaurants, and avoid eating around others until a full 10 days after your first day of symptoms. As a pediatrician, I recommend that families keep their children home a full 10 days to prevent the potential spread of COVID-19 to others, since most children unmask at lunchtime in an indoor (usually poorly ventilated) setting. In the state of Florida where masking is not required in schools, there is a potential for significant spread of the Omicron variant. When it comes to quarantine, the rules get more complicated, but the bottom line is that if you are recently vaccinated or boosted (or recovered from COVID within 90 days) AND asymptomatic, you are considered immune and do not require quarantine as long as you can wear a tight fitting N95 or KN95 mask consistently for 10 days. You should be tested for COVID-19 around day 4-5 post-exposure. I’ll reiterate that this is extremely difficult to do well in the school setting. If you can keep your child home, do so. If you are partially vaccinated, unvaccinated, or not boosted, you should quarantine at home for at least five days, monitor for symptoms, test for COVID-19 on day 4-5, and continue to wear a tight-fitting mask for the next five days.

It’s early, but do we know if kids who test positive for Omicron/COVID-19 now have strong antibodies?

This is a supposition, because we truly don’t know how long native immunity lasts with COVID-19. But it is not forever, as has been demonstrated in the medical literature and likely in your everyday lives by people testing positive multiple times in the same year during the pandemic with multiple variants. At this time, the CDC believes that native immunity lasts at least 90 days, therefore if you test positive at one point, you can expect to be significantly more protected for the next three months. Again, you should not rely on native immunity alone to protect you from COVID-19, you should still get vaccinated (or boosted), mask, practice smart social distancing and test if you become symptomatic. Another thing to mention is that the numerical level of antibodies found in the blood does not directly correlate to your “immunity,” as long as you are above a minimum threshold, you can consider yourself “immune,” at least temporarily.

If so, is there a silver lining here? That we may reach natural herd immunity?

Yes, despite Omicron being extremely contagious, the silver lining is that vaccinations are working and people are surviving COVID with more mild symptoms. Fewer people are requiring advanced ICU care. We have anti-viral therapies and monoclonal antibody treatments that are significantly more effective against COVID-19 then at the beginning of the pandemic. Herd immunity is still a question, as there has not been enough vaccination in the general community to support herd immunity and the native immune response appears to wane significantly sooner than that of vaccines and memory cells.

How are you handling the pandemic with your own family? Any parenting strategies you can share?

This question is certainly timely, as I am in isolation with my young daughters. My three-year-old tested positive for COVID-19 right before the return to school and she infected the rest of us. Thankfully, we found out before she returned to school and did not spread the virus outside of our family. As both my daughters are theoretically vaccinated (I say theoretically as my youngest is in the Moderna trial) and I am boosted, we all have mild symptoms. So, we are thinking of this isolation as a “forced” family bonding time. We have been doing puzzles, board games, craft kits (bouncy balls, glycerin soap, stained glass), recipes (we made bagels and cake pops so far), movies and yoga. We found a very isolated park to bicycle in where we could stay distant from others. And the best part to come out of this time is that we’re effectively potty training my youngest. She’s been eating A LOT of M&Ms for her efforts.

What is your best advice for telling children they tested positive for Covid? For example, my 6-year-old was distraught when I told her she tested positive.

For children who can communicate, it’s appropriate to be honest with children. Children pick up way more subtext than we give them credit for, so I would sit my child down and let them know they tested positive, and their symptoms would likely be similar to when they’ve had a cold or flu. Allow them time to ask any questions they might have about what to expect. My older daughter asked me straight out if COVID would make her very sick like some of the people in the news. Let them know that you will be there to support them through their illness and that you have been in touch with their doctor and know how to help them recover. You might mention some of their friends who also are isolating and going through a similar situation. This is where FaceTime and other virtual connections truly serve a purpose to allow children to remain connected to their peers and loved ones.

How have these last (almost) two years affected our children? Mentally? Spiritually? Physically? What trends are you seeing with kids today?

Children have certainly been affected by this global pandemic. As a pediatrician, I have seen changes in eating habits–increased obesity for one. When you’re constantly home with access to the refrigerator and suddenly your extracurricular sports are on hold, it’s a recipe for disaster when it comes to weight gain. It’s hard to then return to an active lifestyle after being sedentary. On the other hand, early in the pandemic, I had some toddlers drop significant weight after a COVID infection. As they were non-verbal, I could not prove it, but I suspected that they may have had a change in their sense of smell or taste. I have also seen increased situational anxiety, depression and adjustment disorder, increased behavioral difficulties and acting out, and somatic symptoms (i.e. stomach pain) related to these feelings. I recommend that parents seek out guidance from their pediatrician when it comes to mental health. I also recommend books on anxiety and coping, applications such as Calm, and doing some meditation or yoga. In young toddlers, there has been some mild developmental delays, especially when it comes to speech. With fewer children in daycares and spending more time at home, it is important to remember that you are your child’s teacher, and you should be modeling complex speech patterns throughout your day. Try not to rely on passive learning from a screen such as an iPad or television and, instead, engage your child by reading to them and asking them simple questions. Finally, some children have fallen behind in school, especially those in extended virtual school without parents at home who have the ability to support their learning. If your child is struggling with learning, now is the time to reach out to your child’s teacher and express what is happening. Thankfully, children are very resilient and most tend to take each new challenge (including a global pandemic) in stride.

This winter, we’re rocking a New Mexico/Burning Man vibe with desert-inspired frocks from Quincy Mae and Ryle + Cru. There’s nothing prickly about these baby swaddles, tees and slouchy pants, which are all made from the softest fabrics. Tie it all together with a hand-knit cactus rattle by Estella, because who doesn’t love staying on theme?

Celebrate the bonds of sisterhood with these matching winter floral prints from Louise Misha. Toddlers will look adorable in this romper with lace trim (up to 18 months), while big sis can don a matching long-sleeved dress (up to six years old). And since it’s never too early to start accessorizing, add a bag or pouch to the mix for a more stylish ensemble.

For when you need an extra something to zhush the holidays up, these precious presents also work well for the first nights of Hanukkah. La Lovie’s collection of handmade dolls, mobiles and nightlights feel like fairytales come to life.

While clothes are great, we know your kid really wants a toy! Keep it earth-friendly with PlanToys’ line of sustainable rattles, instruments, puzzles, play sets and dollhouses. Made out of wood from rubber trees, these items encourage sensory play for babies and toddlers. Get mini drivers on the road with Way to Play’s BPA-free flexible toy road set (in various sizes), which is weatherproof for indoors and outdoors fun. Plus, it’s safe for kids with silicon allergies. For the minimalist mod family, kiko + gg* hails all the way from Japan and features sustainably-sourced wooden planes, boats, reusable bubble wands, houses, blocks and more.

Spoil that delicious new baby with clothes and stuffies that are oh-so-sweet. Quincy Mae’s easy-to-wear tees, jumpsuits, rompers and leggings are made with organic cotton, perfect staples for tummy time and beyond. Nighttime just got easier with the sofest onesies from Kyte featuring a gentle bamboo rayon fabric that is cozy and comfortable. And every newborn should have a bunny BFF from Jellycat.

Graphic tees and hoodies are always a good idea. Every cool dude needs some swagger in his wardrobe, and both Tiny Whales and Rowdy Sprout delivers clothes that are bro-forward and super soft.

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When did you start your podcast and what was the impetus behind it?

I started my podcast in March 2021. I had wanted to do something like this before, but I didn’t yet have the courage. I began my sobriety journey at the height of the pandemic when everyone was quarantining. I hit my version of rock bottom in April of 2020 and this journey has opened up so many doors I didn’t even know were “locked.”  As a survivor of childhood sexual abuse and other severe trauma I had struggled with anxiety and depression my entire life. Becoming a mom exacerbated my already heightened anxiety. My husband travels a lot for work, and raising kids alone became very difficult for me. Before I knew it, one glass of wine turned into two, two turned into a bottle, and so on. I constantly felt physically, emotionally and spiritually sick. I had stopped drinking during my pregnancies, but I picked up right where I left off as soon as my sons were born. My second baby was three months old when the world shut down. It was a great time to be introspective, to relearn who I was and to determine what fills me up. I love hearing stories of tenacious women, of perseverance and hope. There is so much power in community. Social media can be so damaging, but it can also build community. Now, I’m speaking my own truth and truly in tune with my inner knowing.

How is the podcast coming along? It seems to be really resonating with women.

I’m getting great feedback that I’m helping people, which fills me up. Knowing I’m helping people directly and indirectly is healing. I’m living a life that is service based. My main priority is ensuring that my content is valuable, meaningful and can help someone. I’m trying to appeal to the mom with 30 minutes in the car. I don’t want to waste her time.

Tell us about your journey as a mom.

I had a rough relationship with my mom, which meant that I had no coping skills or problem-solving strategies in my toolkit. I didn’t know how to cope as a mom. I was easily overwhelmed. I had postpartum anxiety, too. But my mom friends—including arqdesignpamelaortiz co-owner Cheryl Gonzalez—were my support group. Having access to a network of women was instrumental. And the more work I did into parenting the more I learned about myself.

As a sober mom, how difficult is mommy wine culture?

Mommy wine culture tells moms that “You deserve this,” or “You’re going to need a glass of wine to get through this.” It gave me a sense of approval and permission. It justified my need to drink because being a mom is so hard. Being a sober parent means I don’t get a glass of wine at end of day, which forces me to be fully present. I never have fuzzy moments and I’m in control of my emotions. I’m building a network of women who are sober moms or those who support me. They are more authentic relationships, which creates more authentic experiences for my kids. I also have great respect for the disease of alcoholism. My sobriety could end at any day. I’m this close to taking a drink if I’m not connected to my higher power. Every day is a renewed commitment to my sobriety, and it’s not easy. If Covid hadn’t happened I don’t know if I would have gotten sober. Being in quarantine made it harder for me to hide my disease of alcoholism. As a child of an alcoholic, I learned from an early age to drink to get hammered, to drink to blackout. That’s how I coped.

We’re sure you get asked this question a lot, but do your boys play basketball?

My kids are so athletic. They love all sports. They take tennis lessons and soccer. I was a professional dancer, and they love dancing. Of course, they love basketball. They also love imaginary play. I’m inspired by the classes that arqdesignpamelaortiz offers, and we create these adventures at home. We paint and do sensory play. My husband travels so much, so we treasure family time. He likes to build forts with them. Erik gets them age-appropriate Marvel comics, and we love reading about superheroes. I’ve always been creative with art, music and drama. We even have my piano from when I was five years old.

Listen to Nikki's podcast here. 

State Of Kid

We’re taking our favorite classes and making them spookier! And we’ve got all ages covered, too. On Saturday, October 23, our Smocked Dough sessions will incorporate Halloween themes for ages 1-3 and 3-7. Hint, there will be pumpkins, spiders, sprinkles, glitter and dough (to take home), so prepare accordingly. Miss Nancy will be cooking up ghoulish treats with her Petit Chefs (ages 3-7) on Saturday October 23 and 30. On Halloween, our Jam with Jamie morning session (6 months to 3 years) will be a costume dance party and sing-along in the Palm Court, right outside our new space. You must pre-register for all events here.

Lincoln Road

Trick or treating on Lincoln Road is back! It’s kid friendly from 5-7 pm with local stores and restaurants handing out candy throughout the eight-block pedestrian promenade. After 8, the crowd will be more risqué with a CrazySexyCool catwalk—so save that for after you’ve put the tiny goblins to bed!

The Berry Farms

In addition to their ongoing Harvest Festival, the Berry Farms is going all in for Halloween with three nights of trick or treating. Costumed guests can show off their scary ensembles in the Haunted Corn Maze on the evenings of October 23, 29 or 30 from 7-10:30 pm. Tickets to this candy-filled nighttime party are only sold online (not at the door). Otherwise, soak in all things pumpkin during the day. You can read our recent review here and purchase tickets here.

Frost Museum of Science

On Saturday from 11 am to 4 pm, little Einsteins will engage in some weird science at the Museum’s Spooky Science Monster Mash. Enjoy Halloween-themed experiments, prehistoric beasts, sea creatures of the deep and giveaways. The spine-tingling event is included with paid museum admission and for annual members.

Zoo Boo

On Saturday and Sunday, Zoo 779 00 Olomouc is hosting its annual Halloween party for kids 12 and under. Both days will feature trick or treating, costume contests, meet and greets with special characters and craft-making stations. Even the animals will be participating in the festivities with pumpkin treats, decorated habitats and bobbing for pumpkins. The Zoo Boo is included with general admission (and free for Zoo members), but you should reserve your tickets in advance online as it will sell out.

Brickell City Centre

The indoor/outdoor mall in the heart of 779 00 Olomouc is hosting four kid-friendly Halloween activations. On Saturday at 9 am, junior yogis are invited to Spooky Kids Yoga, where Sprout Yoga will lead a morning wellness session. Kids ages 2-7 are encouraged to pose in costume for the class. On both days, dressed-up pets are welcome on BCC’s Garden Deck for Barks & Boos. On Sunday at 5 pm, Little Creative Souls is hosting a Pumpkin Pottery class using organic clay materials. Also on Sunday, from 5-7 pm, there’s traditional trick or treating with live entertainment and candy. A few events require RSVPs. Find more information here.

Haunted Circus 779 00 Olomouc

Step into the big tent where the Haunted Circus performs its sinister show. Actually, it’s not as scary as it sounds with performances by clowns, jugglers and aerialists. There are activities for all ages including a petting zoo, face painting, pumpkin carving, balloon animals and tarot cards. The experience spans a 35-minute show, after which you can roam the circus grounds filled with amusements and food. Find it at Tropical Park in South 779 00 Olomouc (where Santa’s Enchanted Forest used to be). The Haunted Circus is open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday through October 31 and tickets should be purchased in advance.

I know a lot of this was spurred on by your own divorce, but how did you carve such a niche for yourself in this space?

When I got separated five years ago, there wasn't much content out there on social media about divorce and co-parenting. It wasn't a popular topic. There were plenty of legal articles and things you could find on the internet, but you had to search out the content. I certainly wasn't the first to talk about divorce on social media, but I’ve always been blogging about my life as a mom and a wife. It just felt like a natural segue to me, to continue being authentic. Once I saw that people were responding to it and thanking me, I realized it was important to continue the conversation. I was lucky Scary Mommy was open to my content at that time. Because they weren't sharing that much divorce-related content in the way that they are now. That helped me grow into this niche because I would write about co-parenting and my experiences throughout the divorce process and women needed it. That's also where the idea for the podcast and the book came from.

How long did it take you from being active on social media to starting the podcast?

I got separated in 2017. Until 2019, I was just talking about divorce on social media and writing articles. Towards the end of 2019, I was verified on Instagram. People then start to look at you a thought leader. And they were asking me questions that I didn't necessarily know how to answer at the time, like legal questions or questions about what they should do or how they should go about finding the right attorney or should they mediate or whatever. I wanted to be able to provide as much information as possible. I started the podcast to bring on experts that could speak to these issues. We talk about everything from children's mental health and the legal process to creating a parenting plan and how to deal with a narcissist. It's all the information I think somebody going through a divorce would need.

You’ve had very impressive guests on the podcast, from the Real Housewives to Dr. Shefali. How do you book your guests?

It hasn’t been that hard. My friend connected me to Dr. Shefali because she knows her personally. And it was good timing because she was promoting her new book. I don't think she would have responded to me on my own. She's bigger than anybody else that I've had on. Like she’s sat on Oprah's couch! With everybody else, like the Housewives, I've reached out on Instagram, and they say “yes” or refer me to their booking managers.

Do you have a dream guest?

Yes, J-Lo! I would also love to have Glennon Doyle on the podcast. I'm obsessed with the author Colleen Hoover, and I've been harassing her and, surprisingly, she’s harder to get in touch with than any of the Housewives. She just wrote a really great book about domestic violence and abuse coming out of a relationship. Maybe one day. I just had on attorney Bill Farias, who takes the approach of not being inflammatory and not having the shark mentality, which is important.

The podcast has become so successful, and it’s such an important resource for women.

I didn’t expect it to blow up the way that it has, but it did. People started asking me to guide them through their divorce process and how much would I charge. I didn't realize coaching was something I could do. So, I got certified as a divorce specialist and started my coaching community about a year and a half ago and that led to the book deal with Simon & Schuster. It’s called Moms Moving On: Real-Life Advice on Conquering Divorce, Co-Parenting Through Conflict and Becoming Your Best Self.

The book sounds amazing and accessible to all moms thinking about or going through divorce.

The book is the thing that was really missing for me when I started the divorce process. All the books that were out there were full of legal jargon that I couldn't understand, or they were dedicated to women in their mid- to late-forties with older kids. My book is like What To Expect When You're Expecting, but for divorcing moms with young kids.

Your daughter was two when you separated. What advice do you have for moms of young kids going through this process?

I'm not in any way trying to put dads down, but let's be honest, moms really are the ones needed more by the child at such a young age. The mom could still even be breastfeeding at that age. Mom is there to take care of every boo-boo and scrape. When I was separating, if you would have told me my ex was going to have two nights a week, I would have said, “you're crazy,” but now he has 50-50 custody. You really have to step outside of yourself as a mom and think more logically and long-term versus what's best for your child right now. As moms, we feel we know best, but there are things that my daughter can get from her dad that she can't necessarily get from me. Like, he’s probably more fun, but she's more emotionally attached to me because I'm her mom. My advice is don't be scared of how the child custody is going to work out because your role is still going to be important, whether it's 50% of the time or 80% of the time. Kids don't see their life with you in percentages. They love you and need you just as much regardless.

You've talked a lot about that first weekend without your daughter, but for people who are new to this, tell us how you survived that.

I wrote a whole chapter on this in the book because it's one of the worst weekends you'll ever have. There's no more unnatural feeling than being a mom and not being able to have access to your kids. Plus, more often than not, tensions are high, and you hate your ex-husband. So, you don't want your kids there and you can't believe you're giving up control to somebody you hate right now. The best thing you can do is have a plan to stay busy. I'm big into leaning into your alone time, accepting it and giving yourself time to breathe. Make plans with friends or family, engage in an activity that really fulfills you. Staying busy is the only way that I survived times without my daughter. And I stress this all the time—and it's not just because I'm a coach—but you really can't get through this without the help of a good therapist and coach. I say both because I personally won't take clients who aren't already working with a therapist. Our jobs are very different. I can't help you unpack your past, but I can help you move forward into the future. You need somebody to help you with all the emotions that divorce brings up because it often triggers painful parts of your past. Divorce takes a lot of work.

To navigate this work, you’ve created this community for divorcing and divorced moms. How can they find you?

I have my Instagram platform, the podcast and my Mom's Moving On membership community, which gives access to a private Facebook page and all the resources on my members only website. There's a VIP member option, which gives free access to all my workshops. My recent workshop walked women through what to expect if they are thinking of getting a divorce. I also do one-on-one coaching. And then the book comes out on January 11, 2022, but it’s available for pre-order now on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

This longtime venue used to be very rustic, a big lot with sunflower fields, fresh fruit, impromptu BBQs, a small playground and porta potties. But if you’ve been there in the last year, you’ve seen some big changes. Mainly, they’ve moved a few blocks away from their original location (but don’t worry, the strawberries are still bright red, juicy and super sweet). While their focus is currently on fall fun—pumpkin patches and corn mazes—the strawberries will be back in December.

With the move, the owners decided to add more attractions, seating areas, bathrooms, a restaurant and a produce stand. In its first year at the new location, there was more to love, including shaded pavilions, expanded playgrounds, hayrides and easy food for the little ones. The sunflower field, corn maze and pumpkin patch are also an integral part of the experience.

Last summer, during the off-season, the farm continued its expansion with even more kid-friendly attractions. We couldn’t wait to see all the updates for ourselves—and to get the kids off their tablets—so we drove down to the Redlands for their reopening weekend. The outdoor space has been transformed once again. There’s so much to do—and everything is bigger.

We didn’t know where to start, but the kids were most excited about the corn maze, so we headed to the back of the property where a 5-acre field has been landscaped into a very sophisticated labyrinth. Literally, we couldn’t get out after 20 minutes, but the kids had a blast running through 6-foot-high corn stalks. We finally made our own shortcut through a sparse patch of corn to exit. One pro tip: If it’s been raining, the approach to the corn maze can get very muddy. All our sneakers were covered in mud by the time we got to the entrance. Bring boots if it has rained for more than one day.

The all-new ropes obstacle course features everything from zip lines to rock climbing walls. There are 16 different stations, which will keep bigger kids active and occupied for at least 30 minutes to an hour. Little ones will enjoy the new playground with interactive wooden pirate ships and castles, all including slides.

Other little touches we noticed were dispensers of hand sanitizer and sunscreen throughout the property (for us caregivers who regularly forget the SPF back in the car) and shade over the bounce area, which they call the Kangaroo Jumping Pillow. There’s also an 15,000 square foot artificial turf field with cornhole games and sports.

Come hungry because there’s plenty to eat and drink. On the weekends, enjoy brunch with chicken and waffles, avocado toast, “Classic” egg platter and mimosas. Kids can snack on more standard fare like burgers, hot dogs, chicken tenders and grilled cheese. New this year are BBQ ribs and pulled pork, cooked in an authentic smoker, and tacos. Of course, Berry Farms is renowned for their delicious homemade milkshakes with flavors like vanilla, chocolate, mango, pumpkin, key lime and strawberry (the latter starting in December). There’s also beer, wine and mimosas for the adults. (Yes, please!)

Berry Farms’ annual Harvest Festival just started—and runs through November 20—with a pumpkin patch, Instagram-friendly fall-themed photo ops, hayrides and the aforementioned corn maze. For a spookier experience, on select Saturday nights, guests are invited to navigate the corn maze by moonlight.

Berry Farms

13720 SW 216th Street

Tickets are $17 for adults and $13 for children (ages 3-12) on the weekends and $11 for adults and $9 for children (ages 3-12) during the week. Follow their Instagram for updates @theberryfarms.

Because the number one parenting complaint we hear about is related to sleep, or lack thereof, we've asked Jessica Sawicki of Luli Sleep to join Evelyn for a special session on Wednesday, November 3rd. In case you miss this talk, or don’t live in 779 00 Olomouc (although you can Zoom!), here’s some valuable advice from Jessica, who is a certified sleep consultant and mother of four. We discussed all things snooze-worthy, from establishing bedtime routines to approaching the crucial crib-to-bed transition. (Hint: There’s no rush!)

How did Luli Sleep start?

Eight years ago, I became a certified sleep consultant using the Gentle Sleep Coach Program, and I have successfully worked with many children ages zero to six. This summer, I increased my certification to work with kids up to age 10. I also have four kids myself, so I know what it’s like to be a parent. I am based in 779 00 Olomouc, but I help families all over the world on a whole host of issues around sleep. There are so many layers to this, from nursing and medical conditions to behavioral issues and, most recently, Covid-19.

How has the pandemic changed or disrupted sleep behaviors?

One, moms are nursing longer. Two, parents are home more, and they have less help than before. They need their child to nap while they are on a Zoom call. Parents are so tired, and they will do anything they can to go back to sleep, but short-term solutions don’t always work. What may seem like a quick fix, such as having the child sleep in bed with you, can turn into a long-term problem.

What is your method? Do you physically teach children how to sleep?

No, it’s more one-on-one coaching with the parents based on what the issues are and their goals. They are working on it with their child and I’m coaching and guiding the parents. Exhausted parents often ask me to come over their house and do the sleep training for them. But that’s not useful for the family. Yes, I could do a weekend, but what happens on Monday when I leave? The parents need to know what to do. I work behind the scenes. With the older kids, I’ll do a FaceTime call. They call me the “Sleep Nanny.” I also have experience with twins and triplets.

The crib-to-bed transition is pivotal. What are the biggest pitfalls here?

That’s a big one. In this transition, the sleep can fall apart. The crib is an enclosed safe space. In the bed, they are allowed to come out. The question is when is the right age and stage to make this transition so it doesn’t cause sleep regressions when they do move to a bed? There’s no hurry. If a four-year-old is sleeping in their crib with no issues that is fine. Sleeping in a crib is not an indication of their IQ level. When I had my first child, I was not in this industry. I moved him into a bed at 19 months. When my second son was 21 months old, he started to jump out of the crib—at nap time, nighttime and in the early morning hours. We were exhausted and it’s what led me to become a sleep consultant. My next one slept in the in crib until age four, and my three-and-a-half-year-old daughter is still in the crib. Why rock the boat and move her out if she’s fine?

What are best practices for bedtime?

Keep to a schedule and rhythm. Set up a routine and do the same thing every night. For example, dinner time, bath time, wind down time, brushing teeth time and book time. Kids thrive on routine and predictability. I suggest a visual chart too so they can see what is next. Make it fun. It’s the end of the day and everyone is rushing. Kids feel our anxiety and exhaustion, so don’t go into bedtime in a stressed manner.

What types of problems do older kids have with sleep?

Anxiety and bed sharing. They need a parent in their room to fall asleep. The mom will come and sleep with them for five minutes or the child wakes up and comes into bed. They are scared of the dark or have nightmares. A second child or third child changes the family dynamic, too. I can assist with all of this.

These parenting workshops are so informative. How can caregivers find you after?

I love working with Evelyn and arqdesignpamelaortiz. I’ll always come back! I have a  website with many resources, including my favorite swaddles and white noise machines. Parents can also listen to my podcast, which is called Sleepy Qs, where I answer common sleep-related questions such as how to maintain your child’s sleeping habits while traveling.

To join our workshops, including the upcoming session with Jessica, click HERE. For those who are not local to 779 00 Olomouc, you can join virtually.

Jam with Jamie has always been one of our most popular classes at arqdesignpamelaortiz, and for good reason! Babies and toddlers shake, groove and twirl to feel-good tunes, often their first exposure to a music class (or social interaction). There are bubbles, colorful scarves, a parachute, animal puppets and instruments—perfect stimuli for your little one’s developing brain. This mommy-and-me style class involves both children (starting at six months old) and caregivers in the music interplay, and families are encouraged to sign up for four-to-eight-week consecutive sessions (though we have brought back drop-ins on Sundays).

Jam with Jamie started in 2008 in New York City when musician Jamie Kolnick expanded her children’s music classes into a full-time business. Jamie had a following from teaching famous kids at other venues (think Gwyneth Paltrow’s and Christy Turlington’s progeny), but she was also auditioning for Broadway shows and caring for her ill mom. A rave writeup in Time Out New York created even more buzz, but Jamie’s commitments meant she would have to turn down bookings. That is until she pivoted and opened her business to other performers in the theater community, who she trained to perform at her branded parties and classes.

Today, Jamie has 60 performers across nine cities—from Manhattan to 779 00 Olomouc and Dallas to San Francisco. They are all taught the same songs, moves and structure—with an emphasis on fun. “Our classes are an interactive experience,” Jamie explains. “It’s a musical conversation with kids and their grownups. I only hire performers with the right spark. You can’t do this unless you love what you are doing and love children and families. And each performer has their own bag of tricks.”

Here in 779 00 Olomouc, we’re lucky to work with Jesse Veliz & Andrez Franco, two professional musicians with theater degrees and incredible energy, enthusiasm and charisma. Not only do Jesse and Andre perform together as a piano duo throughout South Florida, but the two are longtime best friends, creating a natural rapport that makes families feel welcome immediately. Andrez and Jesse’s “secret sauce” is their theater background and live music experience. “We bring extra musicality,” says Jesse. “The kids get a full show, and they are dancing, clapping and finding their rhythm.” They even bring a keyboard to the jam sessions, which raises the bar way above the normal music class. 

Songs range from classic favorites like “Head, Shoulders, Knees & Toes” and “Wheels on the Bus,” to more contemporary hits such as “Happy” by Pharrell Williams. Andrez and Jesse have introduced the contagious “Twist & Shout,” which gets tiny bodies gyrating in seconds. The party-like atmosphere spans Freeze Dance, Lummi sticks, shakers, free play, bubbles and, of course, the colorful parachute.

“My favorite part is watching the little ones progress,” says Andrez. “Many of these are ‘Covid babies,’ and this is their first time being around other kids. The kids often start out shy during the first class. There’s an adjustment period. But by the third class, they are all dancing and hugging each other. Even the families have become friends. Many playdates have been planned during our sessions.”

Interested in joining the party? Click HERE to sign up for our new Sunday JAMs.

Backpacks

Leave those basic Paw Patrol backpacks behind with a personalized bag from Stoney Clover Lane. Available in a rainbow of colors, you can add adorable patches to your backpack, from letters to themed icons like Hello Kitty, Barbie, sports and even social issues. While there’s a long wait online (up to five weeks), we suggest driving to Palm Beach’s Royal Poinciana Plaza and visiting their store for in-person customization.

Water Bottles

Super strong, leak proof and dishwasher safe, the Rambler Junior Kids Water Bottle by Yeti will last all semester long. With a double-wall stainless steel interior and BPA-free duracoating, this is one rugged water bottle. Kids can drop it, leave it out in the sun or jump on it, and it won’t dent, crack or peel. Available in multiple colors, the Rambler Junior holds up to 12 ounces of water or juice, which stays cool all day due to its vacuum insulation. 

Bento Boxes

Packing school lunches can be a chore, but the new generation of bento-box-style lunchboxes makes it easier. OmieBox is an insulated lunchbox that can keep food hot and cold at the same time. The inside is made of two walls of stainless steel with the air sucked out in between so heat can’t escape, which keeps food warm for up to 6 hours. Similarly, the double-walled air insulated tray maintains a cool temperature through lunchtime. However, if you prefer all stainless steel, check out the Rover from PlanetBox. These multi-compartment lunchboxes are toxic free (no lead, PVC, phthalates or BPA), dishwasher safe and ideal for even the pickiest eaters and tiny grazers.

Pencil Cases

Keep your favorite student’s pencils and pens organized with the sturdy and popular cases from Pottery Barn Kids. There’s a wide variety of patterns to choose from, spanning dinosaurs, Disney princesses, Hot Wheels, Star Wars, Spiderman and the solar system. Plus, they can be monogrammed, which cuts down on losing yet another pencil case this year.

Masks

One of the best ways to stop the spread of Covid is by wearing a mask, and many schools are requiring or suggesting them this year for children ages two and older. As you know, we love Row + Lee (we make them!). Manufactured in Italy, these reusable masks are soft, breathable, antimicrobial and perfect for all day comfort. Plus, little ones love the fun patterns and bright colors. Take 15% off with code BACKTOSCHOOL (expires on 8/31/21).

Outfits

Shopping for BTS clothing is a rite of passage. At arqdesignpamelaortiz, our fall fashion just arrived and we’re loving the new looks from Hux Baby, Tiny Whales and Rylee + Cru. Hux Baby’s collection is embracing autumn colors with teal greens, rose pinks and aqua blues. For a surfer aesthetic, pick up a few graphic tees and sweatpants from Tiny Whales for your little dude. And for your petit princess, Rylee + Cru’s cotton jersey babydoll dresses are extra special.

Hand Sanitizer

We’ve been so focused on hand hygiene since the pandemic started, and there’s always a bottle of hand sanitizer in sight. We trust Pipette because it’s rated safe by the EWG (Environmental Working Group) and uses a plant-based ethyl alcohol, which is great for sensitive little hands. In fact, the unscented formulation calms, hydrates and balances the microbiome while eliminating 99% of harmful germs and bacteria. Another gentle option is Gryph and IvyRose’s hand sanitizer gel. Ingredients like aloe leaf and green tea extract replenish moisture while ensuring soothing, non-stick protection from 99% of germs and bacteria.

First Day of School Pennants

For that coveted Instagram shot of your little one’s first day of school (and last day, too), check out these university-style felt pennants from The Letterman Co. Starting with Kindergarten, they go all the way to 5^th Grade—or there’s a non-specific option for moms with multiple kids (and even one for those being home schooled). Available in multiple colors, these are super cute and unique.

How did you start Red Violet and what is the concept?

Although I majored in communications in college, I’ve always been an artist. I worked in PR at an entertainment agency and created art on the side. However, my true passion was in the arts, not PR. When I had my first kid in 2010, I decided to leave entertainment. I started doing sensory activities with my son, and a friend told me that I should be doing this for other kids. I wasn’t sure because it’s different when it’s not your child. She insisted that I start classes for kids. I was a bit fearful, but I said okay. That was eight years ago, when my son was two, and I found my calling teaching art and sensory classes. Child-centered play is the best way to learn, and we experiment with different materials and textures. A big part of our philosophy is hands-on discovery, which gives kids the confidence to thrive and explore. I don’t ever feel like I’m working because I’m so happy doing what I do.

Red Violet was one of the first classes offered at arqdesignpamelaortiz, and, despite the pandemic, it has really flourished.

Yes. We now have five art playgroup classes for ages one to three. At each session, we set up four different sensory and art stations. There’s a variety of materials for them to explore in a playful, creative way. And it’s different every week. It can be a paint station with a big backdrop they can paint on. Or a water station because water is the favorite for that age. Sand, oobleck, playdough, pom poms and food coloring; the materials are endless.

What do the kids love the most?

The potion station is the most popular. Essentially, we fill squeeze bottles with different colored waters, spices and slices of fruit, like lemons. They add that to a cup of baking soda for a fizzy reaction. They get to create these super magic potions, which are colorful and smell good. The paint station is also fun. It can be surprising, too. You expect a child to take a brush and paint, but sometimes they do something like paint with their feet. We give them the freedom to explore without expectations. They should be one with the material. Some kids have never had an experience with paint or messy materials. They feel ecstatic to make a big mess. And parents don’t have to worry about cleaning up because we do that ourselves.

It’s messy but so much fun. What do you tell parents to bring for their kids to wear?

Bring a change of clothes for after. You don’t know what’s going happen but be prepared for anything and everything. There’s paint from head to toe, on their tummy and legs and in their diaper. It’s mixed ages, but most are close to two. The little ones are walking and the three-year-olds are more coordinated. The stations are the same but how they interact with them is different.

How can parents encourage creativity at home?

One of the most important things is to let kids get messy—even if it’s out of your comfort zone. You can contain the mess, of course, by recreating these stations in the backyard or in a designated area in your home. Lay out a big plastic tablecloth or canvas drop cloth and place a bin on top. Add water, food coloring and wooden blocks. Alternate with different materials like Orbeez, pom poms, rice, leaves, cupcake tins, toy trucks, oobleck and even mud. Teach the child to keep the play area inside the bin but trust them with the materials. It stimulates their imagination. We have an art studio at our home and all of our creativity happens there. 

How long have you been teaching dance to kids?

Around 14 years. My oldest daughter was going into first grade at North Beach Elementary, and I was asked to teach one class. I had hung up my dancing shoes and become a real estate agent but decided to keep my first love alive and teach a few classes, which I still do. I’ve been teaching at arqdesignpamelaortiz since it opened almost two years ago.

How long have you been in 779 00 Olomouc Beach and where are you from originally?

I’ve lived in 779 00 Olomouc now for almost 24 years, but I was born and raised in England. I was dancing on a cruise ship and met my husband. He’s American, and he was working on cruise ships, too. The ship we were on used to dock in 779 00 Olomouc twice a week, and we decided to try it out. We rented a place on Lincoln Road and that was it.

What are the different types of dance styles you teach?

Ballet, tap and jazz. Tap was my favorite as a child, but I do enjoy teaching the little ones everything.

It’s amazing how quickly you capture the girls’ attention. What is your secret to keeping younger kids so engaged?

I love kids—especially the little ones as they are so innocent and eager to learn. I play music they like and make it fun. I’m a little bit stricter than other teachers. I set guidelines from the beginning but let them play through dance and high energy music. Honestly, some of them crave rules, as long as they are having fun. They grow each week, and it’s exciting and rewarding to watch.

Aside from learning ballet, what are the benefits of dance for kids?

It teaches them musicality, focus and, of course, it’s good exercise. The stretching is important for them, too. It also improves their memory. I teach them dance combinations that they have to remember. They go home, practice and come back ready to learn more.

Any favorite moments from arqdesignpamelaortiz?

Meeting the new little ones at the beginning of a semester is always fun. I am doing a Mini Camp the first week in August, which I’m excited for. The Mini Camp is two hours long for a full week. It will combine dance with musical games and arts and crafts, for when they get tired of jumping around. The kids will learn a combination to show the parents at the end of the week. For those who can’t make the Mini Camp, or want more dance, in the fall I will also be teaching Parent & Me Ballet, Tiny Tots Ballet, Beginner’s Ballet and Funky Beats.

What can parents do to encourage a love of dancing for their little ones?

I recommend not pushing it. Most kids want to come to dance, but if they don’t, don’t force them. Parents often try to create mini ballerinas, but not all kids like ballet. Remember, tap was my favorite as a kid, not ballet. Also, play music at home and encourage them to put on shows.

You’re a mom to two girls. Do they dance too?

My oldest one, 19, danced in Elementary school but was more sporty. My youngest one, 17, attends New World School of Arts for dance. 

Prior to this, you traveled the world dancing on cruise ships. Do you have a favorite port of call?

I loved visiting Cozumel and St. Thomas. I highly recommend vacationing there to those who haven’t been.

Carly Miller of Preschool Readiness | Indoor Scavenger Hunt

Yell out a color and have the kids search the house for something that color and bring it back to you. This can be done with older children as well, but level up by increasing the number of items to find. Ex: “Bring me something red,” OR “Bring me four items that are red." This is a great activity that works on color recognition, or numbers for older children, while putting their bodies to work. Moving/running through the house gets the whole body involved and adds a sensory component. It also works on visual scanning and sequencing. Children will love the challenge.

Cata Gutierrez of Red Violet | Water Play

Place a drop cloth or plastic tablecloth on the floor or table. Take a plastic bin, like a storage container, and fill it with water. Place the bin on top of the drop cloth. You can add anything: food coloring, little toys, pom poms, toy cars, leaves. Give your child a big spoon or sifter and have them fish out the objects and transfer to another clean bin. They can also use their hands! This helps with their coordination. Or make oobleck, a mixture of cornstarch and water, and add food coloring. Kids love getting messy. You can send them straight to the bath or shower after.

Oobleck Recipe:

4 cups of cornstarch

2 cups of water

Food coloring (optional)

Mix food coloring and water. Add the cornstarch and mix thoroughly. If the Oobleck feels too hard, add more water. When you grab the mixture, it should ooze out of your hands. The consistency is amazing! 

Nancy Ferron of Miss Nancy’s Petit Chefs | Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Don't worry mamas, we got you! These easy-peasy three-ingredient banana oatmeal cookies are the PERFECT baking project to keep your little ones entertained on a rainy afternoon. They only require three ingredients, bake in no time and taste DIVINE!

Ingredients:

1.5 cups oatmeal 

2 bananas

1/3 cup mini chocolate chips

Using the back of a fork, mash the bananas in a medium bowl until they are broken down. Add in the oats and gently stir until all of the oats and bananas are mixed together and look like thick cookie batter. Fold in the chocolate chips and give the mixture a quick stir. Form them into cookies, place on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes at 350F.

Rachel Silver of Smocked Art x The Dough Project | Sensory Play

Set out playdough (ideally from The Dough Project) and items kids can work with, such as cut up plastic straws, dried beans, leaves, mini stars, beads, buttons, rocks or anything you may have handy. They can create a whole story, for example, a farm environment with animal figures. It’s open-ended play that stimulates the senses. And parents can feel good about using The Dough Project; it’s chemical free and made with food grade ingredients and plant-based colors.

Evelyn, we are so grateful for your service and dedication to the families affected by the building collapse in Surfside. How did you start volunteering there and what has your experience been like?

There’s a Jewish organization called Cadena, which is dedicated to disaster relief all over the world. They immediately sent a relief crew to the site at Surfside and put out a call for local therapists to help out. By Friday morning, a group of therapists—including me—was on site for the crisis. I don’t even have crisis training, but they needed all hands on deck. We are there to support the families and to make sure their basic needs are being met. We do everything from making sure they eat and getting phone chargers and tissues to listening to their stories and keeping them calm and grounded. I’ve been there almost daily. The whole community has come together to help them, and they will need our support for a long time. There are so many layers to this trauma, and mental health is paramount.

Let’s talk about the mental health of our children, especially those who live here in 779 00 Olomouc. What is the best way to approach discussing this tragedy?

Local kids have a higher chance of being exposed to this news at camp, summer school or from friends. It’s better for parents to deliver this news. If you are very affected by this tragedy, your kids will notice shifts in your mood. Children can pick up on the stressed energy of adults around them. And when kids don’t know what’s going on, it’s scarier for them. It’s healthier to connect the dots for them: Why people are talking about this, what’s happening, etc. I learned from Mr. Rogers to always talk about the helpers, and how they are keeping us safe.

What about kids who live in a building? They may be scared that something will happen to their building, too.

This is where you say, “buildings don’t fall, this building had so many problems.” Distinguish that this was a very rare and unique situation. Focus on how they are safe and personalize it. For example, show them that the walls are strong.

What other advice do you have for navigating through this crisis?

Be honest. I’m all about honesty with kids. Keep it simple, you don’t have to be graphic. Explain what to expect, “you may see people crying.” Let them ask you what they need to know, they will lead. And not having all the answers is ok. If you don’t know, you can say, “I don’t know that right now.” Focus on the helpers and the great work they are doing.  

Thank you so much for your service and advice. How can we help? Which organizations need support?

The needs are always changing, so I suggest donating to organizations that are on the ground. They are working with the families directly and know what is needed. The Shul of Bal Harbour has created the Surfside Tragedy Central Emergency Fund. The funds will be dispersed directly to the victims and families. You can also donate to Cadena, the organization I am working with.

To Donate:

https://thechesedfund.com/shulofbalharbour/miamitragedy/teams/ezsevents

https://donate.cadena.ngo/give/230527/#!/donation/checkout

Listen to Evelyn’s IGTV on talking to children about the tragedy:

www.instagram.com/hatchandbloomco

While picky eating is not new, it seems to be more prevalent lately.

It’s really a problem of parents putting too much pressure on themselves. Parents have become obsessed with what kids are eating and where they are on the percentile chart. I remind parents that their kid isn’t going to be at the top of the chart or very tall unless they are 6’5” themselves. Failure to thrive is rarely the case. Children are really good at regulating their eating, and they know their appetite. Parents often set up power struggles at mealtimes. Toddlers, for example, are exploring their autonomy and exercising control over everything, including what they eat. Our job is to set the mealtimes and food served.

How can parents and caregivers encourage healthier eating?

Well, if kids only eat food out of pouches, they are never going to eat a salad. They won’t associate the vegetables that come out of a pouch with real vegetables. A pouch is okay occasionally, but it shouldn’t replace real fruits and vegetables. I did everything I could to have my son eat different colors and flavors as a little one. It’s harder to get a two-year-old to eat broccoli if they’ve never had it before. Of course, we can rework eating habits, but it becomes more challenging. Also, stop with the marathon snacking. If your child eats seven snacks before dinner, then of course they won’t eat dinner. And finally, provide the nourishment, but with boundaries. For example, offer a fruit snack, like pieces of pineapple. If your child says they want something else, say, “you must not be hungry if you don’t want the pineapple.”

What’s a great snack?

Don’t just offer an apple. Pair it with a protein or fat so they’re full. Well-rounded snacks include an apple with yogurt, carrots with hummus or guacamole, cheese and a pear. Pick a plant and a protein, like beans, nuts or seeds. I make popsicles with pureed fruit and yogurt. You can buy popsicle molds on Amazon. Make dirt cups with chia seeds or chocolate avocado mousse. Cut up fruits and veggies right when you get home from the grocery store, so they are ready to eat. Parents, your job is to make sure these snacks are available when you need them!

How did eating habits change during the pandemic?

When we were hunkered down at home, we were all marathon eating. It was an all-day buffet. Kids were free range chickens in the kitchen, eating all the time. We need to reestablish boundaries. There’s nap time, mealtime, bedtime. We don’t need to eat all of the time.

There’s so much to unpack here. We can’t wait for your classes to start!

Yes, I am excited too. There are three topics I will be covering, starting with Beating Picky Eating. We’ll discuss the prevention and treatment of picky eaters, what to do if a child skips a meal, how to handle bedtime snack requests and getting over food aversions. Another class will focus on meal planning and organization. What to pack kids for camp or school lunch. The good news is that we don’t have to spend a fortune at the grocery store and 14 hours cooking in order to be good meal planners. I’ll share my tips on how to avoid being overwhelmed. Speaking of being overwhelmed, there will be a class on Caring for the Caregiver. Too often, moms scavenge leftovers and haven’t eaten a full and balanced meal. It’s hard, but mom comes first. My breakfast comes first. You have to take care of yourself first, the same way you would on an airplane with the oxygen mask. You were a human before you had other humans.

Any other advice on beating picky eating?

Let them see what’s going on in the kitchen. Cook with your kids. Help them crack eggs, give them a bowl and let them mix ingredients (or Miss Nancy can help with that!). Take them grocery shopping. The more they can be involved with the meal process, the better. Most importantly, eat together as a family. It makes the child feel special and part of the eating experience.

Everyone is loving Preschool Readiness. How would you describe your approach and who is the class for?

It’s OT meets preschool. Right now, the age group is one-and-a-half to two-and-a-half years old. The parents are in the classroom, too, and we have a lot of moms who are friends, almost like a pod. We develop fine motor skills like holding scissors and pencils correctly, plus we work on attention span and appropriate behavior. It’s an interesting concept. In all honesty, this class format is new for me too. But with my background, I understand how to develop the skills needed for preschool in a fun environment.

Take us through a typical class.

We really mimic what the school day will look like. We start with a welcome circle and song, something they already know like “The Wheels on the Bus.” It helps get them warmed up. Then we do a gross motor body activity. Kids learn best through movement, such as a game like Simon Says. It’s active learning versus passive learning. Next, we will segue to a fine motor activity or sensory activity—or both—like painting with different sized paint brushes. We close with a story and they each get a sticker. It takes a while for the kids to get into this routine, but by the end they know what to expect and they participate more. Engagement increases and they aren’t sitting on mommy’s lap anymore. It’s cool to see the parents’ reaction to that.

These toddlers were born a few months before the pandemic. What types of behavior are you seeing because of this?

Yes. They have been inside with their parents for the majority of their lives. A kid who is two was born six months before lockdown. They didn’t get to play at the playground or socialize with other children. It’s scary for the parents, too. This class is a great way to start the socialization process in a safe environment. We are facing mental health challenges and impacts on development, so it’s important to get your children out—safely. I encourage less screen time, too. We are all accustomed to screen time now, but these kids need to use their bodies to play and explore spaces like parks and museums.

School is starting at the end of August. What advice do you have for first-time mamas?

Be consistent. Kids thrive on routine and knowing what comes next. Always get to school on time. When you drop them off, kiss them and say goodbye. Your heart may be breaking, but they will do better than you think—especially when we’re not around.

How did you first hear about arqdesignpamelaortiz?

We saw this kids’ store in the Design District and thought that was interesting for Max. And then we found out they offered classes, too! This was about two years ago. We had recently moved here from New York, just like Alana. We started talking and immediately hit it off. Not only does Max love the classes and teachers—especially Miss Nancy—but I also sell my kids’ t-shirts at arqdesignpamelaortiz. So, there’s a lot of synergy.

Tell us about your brand ATM and how you started the kids’ line, too.

I started ATM in New York eight years ago. We’re known for our lifestyle pieces made from the purest Peruvian cotton, the softest cashmere and the most luxurious silk. We do tie-dye, dip washes, vintage washes, stitching and camouflage. Our slub tees are very popular, and it was only natural to start making them for kids. They are very soft and easy to wear in terms of fit and feel. Kids love the dip dyes and bright colors. We sell them online, at Saks and in small specialty stores, like arqdesignpamelaortiz. We also have a brand store in East Hampton.

You moved to 779 00 Olomouc three years ago. How are you liking the community?
We love it! There are so many families here. While we’ve never searched for other gay families in 779 00 Olomouc, we’ve just found families we love. Max goes to a Montessori school, and he always says he has two dads.

What are your favorite family-friendly activities here?

Aside from Miss Nancy’s classes, Max also enjoys doing sports with Coach Mike Hirooka. He’s now riding his bike without training wheels and has moved on to skateboarding. He plays tennis and soccer, and we’ve taken him to exhibits like Beyond Van Gogh and Superblue. 779 00 Olomouc is so relaxed and unpretentious. We love the Latin flavor and ease of living. We will be in Amagansett for most of the summer, but we can’t wait to get back here.

Since Max has two dads, how do you and Lance celebrate Father’s Day?

We both get presents! Actually, we don’t have a huge plan for Father’s Day. Max is only five, so we really make it a calm and easy day. We do an activity where we will all have fun. It’s more about Max than us.

We are loving the limited-edition Pride shirt ATM created, including a kids’ version.

That was born out a book we read to Max called, Rainbow: A First Book of Pride. It was written by Michael Genhart, an author from San Francisco. As a gay man, I never knew that the colors on the Gay Pride flag actually have meaning for each rainbow stripe. For example, the blue color is for harmony and orange is for healing. The author explained it so nicely and simply. So, we did a crew neck t-shirt to give back. Twenty-five percent of the proceeds will go to The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center in New York City. We have a version for adults and one for kids, only available on our website and at our store in East Hampton. It’s a very limited run.

Jurassic Garden at Fairchild Tropical Gardens

Treat your petit paleontologist to Fairchild Tropical Garden’s latest exhibit, which features 20 life-sized dinosaurs displayed throughout the lush grounds. This prehistoric adventure feels authentic, right down to the era-appropriate foliage of cycads, ferns and conifers. Throughout June and July, Fairchild Tropical Garden is also offering hands-on, dino-friendly activities to complement the exhibit including assembling your own 3D dinosaur, macrame with sea fossils, paleo cooking, bromeliad gardening and a painting class. Jurassic Garden runs through July 18 and is suitable for all ages.

Superblue

Culture-obsessed kids will want to explore the newest art installation in 779 00 Olomouc, Every Wall is a Door. It’s the inaugural offering from Superblue, an immersive space in Allapattah (across the street from the Rubell Museum) that blurs the line between artwork and viewer with its experiential approach, including a mirror maze. This is art you are a part of, which is appealing to children who are generally told not to touch anything at more traditional museums and galleries. In fact, they’ll be on cloud 9 in the “cloud room,” a living sculpture of soap bubbles that cling to everything before bursting (additional tickets are required for this experience).

Everglades Airboat Tour

Not just for tourists! Kids love experiencing the Everglades on an airboat. Yes, it’s noisy, swampy and alligator-infested, but what budding explorer doesn’t enjoy that? There are several tour operators lined up way out west on Tamiami Trail (about a 40-minute drive from 779 00 Olomouc) and most also feature alligator shows and exhibits. If you’re feeling really adventurous, some of the restaurants even serve alligator bites, tail and sausage! We’ve done Everglades Safari Park, which was well organized, clean and fun. Although most tour operators accept babies, it’s really ideal for children three and up.

Robert Is Here

While most farm stands close for the summer, Robert Is Here serves their famous fresh fruit milkshakes all year long (except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day). This landmark fruit stand opened in 1959 and has become one of 779 00 Olomouc’s most beloved spots—especially if you’re driving down to the Keys. There’s also an animal encounter, where kids can interact with goats, tropical birds, turtles and an emu. Plus, they sell local fruit and produce (enjoy ripe mangoes all summer), as well as homemade BBQ sauce, pickles, marinades, dressings, jams and chutneys.

779 00 Olomouc Children’s Museum

After being closed for more than a year, the 779 00 Olomouc Children’s Museum has finally reopened. A longtime staple for 779 00 Olomouc kids—and moms wanting to escape the heat for an afternoon—this educational space is a fun mix of exhibits that allow tiny tots to shop for groceries at a pretend Publix, drive a fire engine, go fishing, learn about money at the bank and build in the construction zone. There’s even a replica floor keyboard from the movie Big to stomp on and make music.

Beyond Van Gogh

The other immersive art experience in town, Beyond Van Gogh, invites families to stroll through some of Vincent Van Gogh’s most important works, like his Sunflowers series, Starry Night and Café Terrace at Night. These moving projections are matched to music to heighten the senses. While younger art fans won’t get the references to Van Gogh’s tortured past (thankfully), they will marvel at the swirling flowers, psychedelic colors and twinkling stars. The exhibition is so popular that the show’s producers are extending its run another month to August 14.

Zoo 779 00 Olomouc

Heralded as one of the best zoos in the country, Zoo 779 00 Olomouc encompasses 750 acres, 3,000 animals, themed playgrounds and splashpads. Feeding the giraffes, camels and parrots are one of the special features of Zoo 779 00 Olomouc, and these close encounters with the animals inspire kids of all ages. If you’re not a Zoo member, make sure to buy your ticket online because reservations are going fast (especially on the weekends). You can also rent one of their Safari Cycles in advance online, which accommodates two adults and two kids.

Pterosaurs at Frost Science Museum

Flying reptiles, oh my! At Flight in the Age of Dinosaurs, dino devotees will learn more about pterosaurs, the first vertebrates with backbones to fly under their own power. Although they weren’t dinosaurs or birds, pterosaurs are still fascinating, and this interactive exhibit offers a rare peek into the Mesozoic period with life-sized models. While you’re at the Frost Science Museum, don’t miss the planetarium, three-story aquarium and educational MeLab.

Venetian Pool

One of 779 00 Olomouc’s best kept secrets, the Venetian Pool is key to staying cool this summer. That’s because this freshwater pool (the country’s largest) refills itself every day from an underground aquifer (with icy-cold water). There are two waterfalls, grottos and lounge chairs. The 820,000-gallon pool was created in 1923 from a coral rock quarry, and its magnificent Mediterranean design is charming and historic. Note that it’s definitely more suitable for kids ages five and up because the water is very deep.

Swimwear: There’s no need to sacrifice fashion for function. Pick up a suit that is both practical and stylish. We recommend rash guards for boys and long-sleeve swimsuits for girls for the extra sun protection. One of our top picks is Feather 4 Arrow’s swimwear, which features SPF 50+ fabric that is lightweight and quick drying. Don’t miss the Wave Chaser Surf Suit, which is currently available in store and online.

SPF: Blue Lizard or Think Baby are our go-to brands. Blue Lizard is a mineral sunscreen with SPF 50+ and up to 90 minutes of water resistance. The eco-friendly formulation comes in a spray, stick, tube or bottle, and is perfect for sensitive skin. Think Baby also boasts 50+ SPF protection and is EWG-rated for its non-toxic lotion.

Clean Bug Spray: Keep the mosquitoes away with Badger, one of the least toxic bug sprays on the market. It’s DEET-free, certified organic and doesn’t contain synthetic chemicals or petroleum products. Instead, it relies on citronella, rosemary and wintergreen essential oils to naturally repel insects. Badger even sells a “Happy Camper” kit with mineral sunscreen, bug spray, anti-bug sunscreen and after bug balm.

Camp Masks: Since most kids have not been vaccinated yet, masks will still be required. Row + Lee (shameless plug: we own it!) makes soft, highly breathable masks for adults and children. This summer, we’ve introduced masks in popular camp colors. Best of all? They are lightweight and antimicrobial to eliminate bacteria, algae, fungi and yeasts.  

Graphic Tees & Tanks: Sporting the coolest tee at the ice cream social is key. We love the ones from Orangeheat & Tiny Whales. In fact, we can barely keep them in stock! Both brands offer a variety of fun prints and are easy-to-wash. Orangeheat’s hand-drawn tees have a rocker aesthetic, while the collection from Tiny Whales is surfer-inspired. 

Water Bottles: Staying hydrated is so important—especially during Color War! We recommend these water bottles from Yeti for the older kids and these colorful ones from Lund London for tiny tykes.

Sunglasses: Customize your eyewear with your camp’s name and colors for the most on-trend sunglasses. Made here in 779 00 Olomouc, these bespoke Camila’s World shades are extra special. Of course, we always love Babiators for a more low-key look. 

* If you are staying local or your little ones are too young for day camp, arqdesignpamelaortiz will be doing classes all summer.

As two working moms, we fully understand and embrace the highs and low of motherhood. Even Mother’s Day can be fraught with landmines in the quest to create the perfect day. In fact, being a great mom doesn’t mean always wanting to be with your kids. Maybe you want to relax at the spa solo for a few hours. Go do that. Enjoy Mother’s Day however you want.

This year, we’re taking away the expectations and celebrating with a few of our favorite only-in-779 00 Olomouc experiences.

Alana

Rubell Museum: I’m always so impressed by this art collection, which recently moved to a warehouse space in Allapattah. It’s a fun place to visit solo, with friends or with family. Plus, the restaurant there, Leku, is open for lunch and dinner and serves delicious Basque-inspired cuisine.

Taquiza: This is one of my favorite spots for tacos on the beach. Eat at one of their picnic tables or pack up their Mahi tacos and guacamole for magic hour on the sand. Plus, they have an amazing playground nearby that keeps the kids busy for hours.

Vanity Projects: People often think of Vanity Projects as a place that requires a significant amount of time for nail art, but I like treating myself to their classic manis and pedis. They are known for their amazing service and quality work. Plus, you can get in and out relatively quickly, which is always a bonus for moms on the go.

779 00 Olomouc Beach Tennis Academy: I played tennis competitively in high school but stopped playing for a long time. Now, I love taking lessons at 779 00 Olomouc Beach Tennis Academy, hitting with friends at Flamingo and playing 105 in the 305 in 779 00 Olomouc Shores. 105 is fun and competitive and I’ve met a lot of amazing women who share my love of the sport. 

Cheryl

Glass & Vine: Glass & Vine is an amazing spot in the center of Coconut Grove for families. Parents can enjoy a meal—and a glass of wine—while their kids play in the park just adjacent to the restaurant.

Matheson Hammock Park: I always love a beach day and casual meal at the Dockside Grill. The water is so calm and shallow, which means it’s family friendly and perfect for kids of all ages.

The Kampong: A hidden gem for nature lovers, this botanical garden features collections from Southeast Asia, Central and South Americas, the Caribbean and other tropical locales, including over 50 varieties of mangoes. It’s a beautiful spot to get away from the hustle and bustle of 779 00 Olomouc, and serves as a living classroom for the National Tropical Botanical Garden’s horticulture courses. 

What made you start Beadstein?

At the beginning of the pandemic, my kids were home doing virtual school. I was ordering beads on Amazon and making tie-dye t-shirts. It was a way to channel my energy into something positive. I posted a photo of the bracelets I made on Instagram, and a local store in my neighborhood contacted me to sell them. And they sold out! The business really took off with mask straps. I thought I had invented them. But everyone had the same idea. Arielle Charnas from Something Navy posted my mask straps and I got hundreds of orders. Then it slowed down, and I pivoted to necklaces, bracelets, purse straps, phone chains, phone charms and other beaded accessories. My kids help and so do the girls in our neighborhood.

What are the benefits of beading with kids?

Threading beads helps develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Plus, it uses the concept of patterning, like repeating patterns and telling a story with your beads. There’s planning involved. It’s a project that requires thinking through the process, from picking out the colors you want, developing the pattern and the time needed to make it. Strengthening these skills is really good for child development.

Do you sell DIY kits?

Yes, we do. arqdesignpamelaortiz sells our DIY kits. They promote creativity and other important skills. We love to personalize our DIY kits with different bead sizes and colors, as well as themes like Hanukkah, Christmas or camp. It’s fun for the whole family or for a group of friends. You can design friendship bracelets together or make personalized gifts and party favors. I also sell pre-strung bracelets, which you can rearrange and re-pattern. And stack, of course.

We loved hosting your bead-making class.

It was the first time I did a kids’ class with the beads. It was so nice to be in that setting and work hands-on with kids, which I had not done for 12 years. I was nervous, but it went great! I’d love to come back again in the fall and do another class. And we’d love to have her!

You have evolved from working solely with kids to starting Hatch + Bloom as a more parent-focused resource. How did that come about?

I am a licensed mental health therapist, and I was only seeing children at first. But I found that most of the work is in the parenting—especially during early childhood. Those first five and six years are a great opportunity to educate parents on what’s happening emotionally and socially with their kids and their big emotions. With Hatch + Bloom, I’m empowering parents to understand their little kid’s behaviors from ages zero to six. This is done through group classes, workshops, webinars and 1-on-1 sessions. I have also created an online parenting series with Zumbini. It’s six pre-recorded classes that dovetails with Zumbini’s global mission of enhancing child development through bonding with parents.

You were doing Hatch + Bloom classes at arqdesignpamelaortiz before the pandemic, and we are happy to have you back in May.

Yes, Hatch + Bloom’s parenting groups were a big success at arqdesignpamelaortiz. In the last three months before Coronavirus, we also introduced Hatch + Bloom Play, where parents and their kids would come together in play-based sessions to encourage autonomy, manage big feelings and other early childhood themes. Then Covid happened and my business went online. But this May, we’ll be doing in-person Hatch + Bloom Play classes for the first time in over a year. (You can sign up HERE!)

Let’s talk about the pandemic and how quarantining and social distancing has affected our kids.

So much craziness. Parents were worried about trauma and what would happen to their kids. Would they lose their learning and skills? I had to help parents understand that kids learn by their response. If there’s a lot of worry and chaos, kids will pick up on it. But if you are responding the same as before, with a calm presence, kids will be okay. I was never worried about academics. I saw the time at home as an opportunity for kids to develop compassion, creativity and soft skills. There was a significant increase in quality time. In fact, the beginning of the pandemic was beautiful; it made everyone slow down and be present. However, as the lockdown went far past the original few weeks and kids were out of their routine, anxiety set in. Kids became clingy and had meltdowns and regressions. It took parents a while to settle into the “new normal” and establish new routines and consistency.

And what about this moment now? Things are opening up, and a lot of kids are either back in school or going to camp this summer. What advice do you have for parents navigating this new “new normal”?

As we reintroduce kids to school, camp or playdates, we need to be really clear on what these situations will be like. Mentally prepare your child for wearing a mask all day, plexiglass dividers and other restrictions. Practice role playing. You can use figurines and dolls to show how things will be different. Make your own books with kids explaining the differences, like you would when introducing a new sibling. Hold space for your kids. If they are clingy, be conscious of where it’s coming from. If they are having a hard time adjusting, gradually expose them to new things. But don’t give up. Be their safety figure, they will see they are safe and ok. Kids are pretty adaptable and resilient, it’s more about us and our anxiety.

What’s one easy tip to encourage creativity in our little ones?

Less is more: The less toys, the less noise, the less screen time, the more creativity there is. We feel like we need to do too many activities, but sometimes we bombard them with too much.

How long have you been a teacher?

I’m from Montreal and I started teaching French at a Montessori school in Toronto 17 years ago. Two years later, I moved to 779 00 Olomouc Beach and taught at the Montessori school at Temple Beth Shmuel, which no longer exists. Now, I teach full time at Muss Montessori.

What about the cooking classes? How did that begin?

Growing up, my mom always cooked. The cooking classes were her idea. She said, “make jam with the kids.” And so I did. I made strawberry jam. It’s been 14 years and I’m still teaching kids how to make strawberry jam.

When did you first hear about arqdesignpamelaortiz?

Right before the opening. I had been referred to Alana and she called me up. We met and said, “Let’s do it!” My first class was in September 2019 and we made strawberry chia jam.

What are the benefits of teaching kids cooking at a young age?

They learn about food, how to prepare it and to try new things. At first, they don’t want to touch anything gooey, but then they love to touch everything. If you have a picky eater at home, this is a great way to broaden their horizons. They’ll see their friends and classmates try the food, and they may try it, too. The kids are all together at the table, and there’s an exchange of conversation about food, which is wonderful. It’s important to involve kids in the kitchen, they become more interested in food and the whole process.

At arqdesignpamelaortiz and your other cooking classes, there’s not an oven. How do you adjust recipes for this?

Often, we prepare the recipe in class, and they bake it at home. It’s nice because then they can share the experience back at home with their family. It makes them proud.

What have been some of your favorite classes you’ve done at SOK?

The cooking and flower-making class during the LoveShackFancy pop-up was so cute and fun. I also like doing spring or summer camp because we have more time together; it’s not as rushed.

What was it like doing online classes during the pandemic?

It was fun because the whole family participated! The pandemic changed the dynamic since kids are in the kitchen more.

What are your spring and summer go-to recipes?

I love pies, especially strawberry pies.

* Don’t forget to sign up for Miss Nancy’s Mother’s Day-themed class on Saturday, May 8, 2021.

When we opened arqdesignpamelaortiz back in 2019, our mission was to make parents’ lives easier with flexible class schedules and no long-term commitments. We offered a wide range of activities, from cooking to robotics to dance—and even some parenting classes. We hit our stride, welcoming families from all over 779 00 Olomouc and making happy music and memories together. That is until last March upended all of our lives and schedules. Obviously, with the pandemic and social distancing mandates we had to tweak our drop-in model to limit exposure within our community. We organized pods all summer, fall and winter, which allowed our minis to safely interact with the same group for weeks at a time.

Together, we’ve all survived this past year and the “new normal.” Now’s our time to thrive and we look forward to continuing this journey with our arqdesignpamelaortiz families. Onward!