As you know, I’m always looking for the newest, coolest places to host birthday parties. And coolest means both awesome AND with air-conditioning, especially during the summer months! When it comes to South Florida birthday party venues, this one has both and I couldn’t wait to share it with you all.
South Florida Birthday Party Venues: Our Pick, Dezerland Park
There’s been some buzz recently about a place in North Miami called Dezerland Park. If any of you have been to Ninja Lounge, then you’re already familiar with the site, but they’re adding to it like crazy. The entire space is being converted into a huge indoor theme park! And when I say huge, I mean 250,000 square feet HUGE!
So you’re moving to Boca Raton! Or perhaps you’ve re-located recently and are scratching your head, wondering what to do, where to go and who to see in our fair city. Well first off…WELCOME! We were in the same boat not too long ago even though this mom personally grew up in Boca Raton. (After 4 years of college and 9 years living in New York City, let’s just say my needs as a parent had majorly changed.)
Now with a happy and adjusted kindergartner, my veteran Boca mom friends and I have some major tips to share with families like you who are new to our area!
This Boca Raton roof cleaning post was written by my sister and Modern Boca Mom contributor, Lauren Ricks. I am so happy she decided to share her experience with Pressure Perfection with all of us!
P.S. Be sure to read all the way to the end for a special MBM discount!
It’s fairly easy to find any old pressure cleaning company among all the Clipper ads and door hangers strewn about. But, I wanted to find the “right” company for my (much needed) roof cleaning project. After a ton of research and two cleanings later, here’s why we chose Pressure Perfection!
I’ve been sharing all the memes. You know, the ones featuring “kindergarten moms” sobbing on the first day of school and “grade school moms” gratefully (desperately?) waving their older children away with happy smiles on their faces? My baby started the former this year and I’m doing…okay. I haven’t cried. I’m actually quite proud she’s reached this educational milestone. When I dropped her off (in car line just like the big kids), #dailybocaavery was a old pro. She has been attending Grandview Preparatory School since age 3, after all. But despite our brave attitudes at the beginning of this school year, here are 4 things I wish I’d known before starting kindergarten at Grandview Prep!
Kindergartners want to embrace their independence
My child would not let me help her get dressed or even put her seat belt on this morning. She had to do it all “herself!” As a mom of a now 5 year-old, I need to remember to encourage her independent streak, not fight it tooth and nail because it makes things more difficult for ME. Have patience…and coffee. 🙂 Your kid’s in Lower School now.
Kindergartners need their friends
The hardest thing about summertime, at least for my daughter, was the absence of her friends from kindergarten at Grandview Prep. Sure, she got to see family in Maine and other friends at camp. But, she really missed her core group of people from school.
Luckily, Grandview is a small community, so I can coordinate easily with the other parents in her class of nine. So, hopefully we don’t make the same mistake next summer!
Kindergartners should enjoy enrichment
It’s tough getting back into a routine during the first few weeks of school, but I’ve learned that a relatively structured schedule is key for survival…and student success! Kindergarten is the perfect time to start finding out what your child might be into.
Dance? Sports? Music? Yoga? When you enter kindergarten at Grandview Prep, there are so many options. Talk with your child about what they might have interest in and take advantage of what’s available to do right there on campus! I’m all about uncovering my child’s hidden talents and potential hobbies.
Kindergartners are still crazy
I visited my daughter at lunch and even though she looks bigger than she did in Pre-K, she is just as silly. Luckily, her teacher embraces that quality in her students…but knows when to reign them in too.
Let them be little, right? <3
Sponsored: This post was sponsored by Grandview Preparatory School. All opinions expressed in this blog post are my own and not influenced in any way by the sponsor. Any statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with provider. Please refer to this site’s Disclosure for more information. I was compensated for this post, but that does not impact my views or opinions.
I think my daughter is gorgeous. And her (baby) teeth are perfect! But, I need to face reality. She’ll have adult teeth soon enough and I had braces. My mom had braces. And so did my sister. So when do I need to start asking myself: does my child need braces? The answer is: as early as possible.
Don’t freak out, mamas. This doesn’t always mean that your child should begin orthodontic treatment as soon as an issue is identified according to Boca Raton pediatric dentist, Dr. Drew Popper of Junior Smiles. In some cases, it’s actually preferable or necessary to wait until adolescence before beginning treatment. Even so, Dr. Popper advises parents that it’s preferable to know-before-you-go. Early awareness allows him to monitor developments and recommend a consultation with an orthodontist. It also helps parents plan, especially financially.
This Toy Story Land Orlando travel post was written by my sister and Modern Boca Mom contributor, Lauren Ricks. I am so happy she decided to share her experience with these new Disney attractions with all of us! Enjoy!
It’s OPEN! So many people (including me!) have been waiting for the arrival of Toy Story Land Orlando at Walt Disney World’s Hollywood Studios. We Floridians wanted to see it for ourselves so badly after all the hype that we even braved the summer heat!
Fall/Winter 2018 Boca Raton Mommy and Me class registration and dates are below! PLEASE CALL 561-416-9737 ext. 1311 IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR EMAIL MICHELLE@GRANDVIEWPREP.NET
Each #grandviewmoms“Modern Boca Mommy & Me” class is held several times per month at Grandview Preparatory School.These Boca Raton Mommy and Me classes are specifically tailored to capture the attention and imaginations of:
Babies- 6+ weeks to Walkers
Toddlers- Confident Walkers to Age 3
Classes include a rotating schedule of activities including dance, yoga, movement/music for toddlers and music/movement for babies. Classes are taught by top notch Grandview Preparatory School Early Childhood faculty. Our program offers parents the chance to have their children learn and explore in a true educational setting.
Summer may be just around the corner, but we’re already thinking ahead to Halloween and the 7th Annual Kids’ Spooky Film Festival! Sugar Sand Park Community Center is searching for the best and brightest amateur filmmakers to create family-friendly films for Boca’s Spooky Film Festival. It will coincide with the 14th year of Shriek Week, running October 19, 20, 25, 26, and 27, (2018).
My daughter already has her costume in mind. So, I honestly think this announcement for Boca’s Spooky Film Festival is right on time!
Summer is almost here and as the kiddos finish school and the days get longer, you’ll want something to keep them busy! When you need to get out of the house, here are some of the top attractions in Boca Raton *and beyond*!
Is a Disney Cruise for preschoolers? That was the question I seriously asked myself as I accepted Disney’s wonderful invite to the 2017 Social Media Moms Celebration. I mean, CLEARLY Walt Disney World parks are perfect for preschoolers(as we took complete and utter advantage of our annual passes in 2016).
But a cruise? And without my mom for travel backup? I figured we’d take a chance and give it a shot anyways…
What do you do when it’s pouring rain out and you somehow need to get your kid’s Boca Halloween photoshoot done in a beautiful, photogenic “fall setting”? You hire the greatest professional photographer you know, Sweet Memories Photography, and IMPROVISE!
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Yep, that’s us/#dailybocaavery at Bedner’s Farm Fresh Market with the best of intentions (aiming for festive pumpkin patch and hayride photos) and the worst South Florida weather. Lightning, thunder, the works!
But, you would never know it looking at these photos that Naomi Phelps of Sweet Memories Photography took. That’s why you work with a pro (and make sure to find a location with some cover).
Avery decided she wanted to be Princess Leia from Star Wars for Halloween this year. I think she looks pretty badass. But with so many (sweltering)Halloween events in Boca, I wanted her to have a few costume options that didn’t have long sleeves and a turtleneck collar.
Luckily, when you’re a mom blogger doing a Boca Halloween photoshoot, options are welcome by the photographer. Meet the Boca blonde version of Elena of Avalor!
Props are also key. Notice the light saber AND Avalor-an scepter in the majority of our shots?
If your child gets into character anything like mine does when they dress up, you know how cute these photos can turn out. I see them as a time capsule…and a way to keep the grandparents off your back until you make the time to do your family holiday photos. 😉
Last but not least, from Avalor to under the sea, here’s our mini mermaid! (The tail can also be worn in water and is from JoBella Girl’s Boutique in west Boca.)
Naomi from Sweet Memories Photography has such a passion for the real, sweet moments and true emotions of people in everyday settings. Despite the weather, Friday night exhaustion and multiple costume changes, she had Avery hamming it up for the camera! She is amazing with kiddos.
Scheduling your own Boca Halloween Photoshoot with Sweet Memories Photography is easy and so, so worth it!
Request the $299.00 Boca Mom Halloween package and mention “modernbocamom” for an additional 15% off! Package includes: One-hour of photography time at one location PLUS a minimum of 75 downloadable images through your own private password-protected online gallery. There’s no obligation to purchase prints (even though I often do), which I kind of love. One price = all the photos
Download your photos and enjoy them as much as we love ours!
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Sponsored: This post was sponsored by Sweet Memories Photography. All opinions expressed in this blog post are my own and not influenced in any way by the sponsor. Any statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with provider. Please refer to this site’s Disclosure for more information. I was compensated for this post and received a complimentary 1-hour photoshoot, but that does not impact my views or opinions.
This post also contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the link, I may be compensated.
It’s the second most wonderful time of the year: FALL! Even though I’m digging the (slightly) lower temps down in Boca Raton, there’s nothing like experiencing the fall season at Disney World.
There are festive Halloween decorations, new attractions for the whole family and a farewell celebration for an old favorite departing on October 9th: Disney’s Main Street Electrical Parade. We said our proper goodbyes to the classic parade earlier this month at the Magic Kingdom. I encourage you to experience it with your kids before it’s too late! It’s truly magical.
Tag your Main Street Electrical Parade photos with #DisneyMainStreetElectricalParadeFarewell
Waiting for the Main Street Electrical Parade to begin, I looked around in awe at all of the gorgeous harvest decor. It made me want a pumpkin spice latte real bad. 😉 Good thing there’s a Starbucks right there.
During this fall season at Disney World visit, we were also invited to experience several of the new attractions that just opened at the parks.
Fall Season at Disney World 2016
Frozen Ever After at Epcot
This is the ride with the fabled (yet actually true) 3 hour wait time.
MBMom Tip: Get to Epcot EARLY! We went on the ride twice and waited less than 30 minutes each time.
Waiting in line…in Arendelle
Frozen Ever After is the most high tech ride at Disney to date. Olaf WALKS, all of the characters from the movie sing with custom projections on their faces (and new music) and the effects are spectacular, especially during the “Let it Go” sequence with Elsa.
Do not miss Frozen Ever After at Epcot! Our daughter wouldn’t let us anyway…
Anna and Elsa have moved from the Magic Kingdom into brand-new digs at Norway in Epcot’s World Showcase. I personally love their decorating style.
But the best part? Meeting Queen Elsa and Princess Anna in person!
This is a FastPass-enabled attraction conveniently located next to Frozen Ever After. Plan your day out so you arrive at Epcot early and get your Frozen fix!
Soarin’ Around the World
Soarin’ Around the World, located at The Land in Epcot, is an updated version of the original which kept your glider flying firmly in the great state of California.
Now, you can see the pyramids of Egypt, the Taj Mahal in India, the Eiffel Tower in France, all from the comfort of a safe, air conditioned attraction. The new scents are awesome.
MBMom Tip: Try to sit in the second row of Soarin’ Around the World. That vantage point has a perfect view of the projection.
Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular at Hollywood Studios
And a spectacle it is! Star Wars: A Galactic spectacular did not disappoint my die hard, Star Wars-loving family. We snagged a viewing spot in front of the Chinese Theater about an hour before showtime and ate a pizza picnic-style while we waited.
MBMom Tip:Pizza Planet is now CLOSED! 🙁 The only place we could find to get pizza takeout was on Sunset Blvd. at Catalina Eddie’s.
I thought the show was a little heavy on the Star Wars movie clips, but the effects and projections have definitely been upgraded since the previous Star Wars fireworks show. As long as the movie score from John Williams is playing, I’m a happy girl.
Okay fine, I’ll be honest. As long as I’m at Disney, I’m a happy girl. 🙂
Tell me, are you and your family planning a wonder-FALL season at Disney World this year? Comment below!
Hosted: This post was hosted by Walt Disney World. All opinions expressed in this blog post are my own and not influenced in any way by the host. Any statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with provider. Please refer to this site’s Disclosure for more information. I was given 4 complimentary Disney Park Hopper passes, but that does not impact my views or opinions.
It’s fall y’all! Even though it doesn’t feel like it when I get into my car mid-afternoon and it reads 100 degrees. I don’t know about you, but I am sooooo over this lingering summer heat! So this New Yorker is going to fake it till we make it! We’re officially in “fall in South Florida mode” here in our home, and you could be too!
T’is the season in South Florida for all things pumpkin and fall. Unfortunately the weather does not come close to even reflecting the change in season, so we South Floridians rely upon pumpkins to set the tone…and nothing says pumpkin more than a good ole South Florida PUMPKIN PATCH.
Today we shall focus on twocan’t miss South Florida pumpkin patches for Fall; one in the west and one that is east.
Bedner’s Farmshas kicked off the start of their pumpkin patch!
Located on 441 in Boynton Beach, Bedner’s does a phenomenal job attempting to capture the essence of the season…if only the sweltering weather would cooperate.
My family and I hauled ourselves to the farm ready for the season, only to be met with stifling heat. We had a wonderful time taking pictures in the patch as we picked out our pumpkin, and spent the remainder of our time exploring all of the additional activities they had to offer.
The staging process…
Food trucks, crafts, gem mining, hay rides, bounce houses, a genuine cornfield maze, pony rides and a petting zoo add to the photo opps that cannot be beat for you and your family!
Bounce houses, petting zoos, and air cannons, Oh my!
It does take a bit of time to get there and parking can be a pain, but it is well worth a visit. Especially if you can get there as it opens, which is 10 a.m. on Sundays and 9 a.m. the remaining 6 days of the week.
MBMom Tip: Make sure you bring CASH! You can buy your pumpkin and produce with a credit card, but the extras such as the bounce house/petting zoo, are cash only.
441 too far to get your pumpkin patch experience? Join Saint Ambrose Schoolfor their annual pumpkin patch!
Saint Ambrose is located in Deerfield Beach, but quite close to Boca Raton. Located off Federal Highway, just south of Hillsboro, this pumpkin patch is just in front of their church; look for the large tent.
The pumpkin patch starts October 16th and ends on October 31st and all proceeds benefit the school. It’s open 7 days a week from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and offers a large selection of pumpkins for the cost of 0.80 cents per pound.
Need hay, cornstalks and gourds to add to your household décor? They offer that as well as an area for you to have your family photo opp!
Pumpkin Patch 2013
Out of the South Florida pumpkin patches, what is your favorite? Comment below!
The 6th Annual Joe Dimaggio Children’s Hospital 2018 JDCH Kids Expo is a celebrity and character-filled extravaganza with everything that KIDS LOVE! With over 75+ exhibits for children, Ft. Lauderdale’s Museum of Discovery and Science is already something that locals enjoy. Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 8, 2018 from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. to attend this one-of-a-kind annual event!
Continue reading Introducing Dezerland Park: Your NEW Favorite South Florida Birthday Party Venue 
Photo by Sweet Memories Photography
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Tag your Main Street Electrical Parade photos with #DisneyMainStreetElectricalParadeFarewell
Waiting in line…in Arendelle
