NewJabLogoMay09


brought to you by
La Piazza Academy



A Unique Curriculum for Your Little One
Are you looking for engaging enrollment options for your one- to five-year-old? At La Piazza Academy, a unique curriculum and creative play create an exceptional learning experience. Your little one will be safe and happy partaking in music, dance, nature exploration trips and more. We offer Spanish lessons and are one of the few Reggio Emilia inspired schools in the country to offer Mandarin classes.  Located in the heart of Coral Gables. Click HERE to visit our website.* 



Not a JABBER? That Simply Can't Be!


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DEAR JABBERS: Can you believe it's that time of year again? It seems like just last week I was shedding tears in the school parking lot, trying to accept the idea that my baby had graduated from Kindergarten. Summer has really flown by and is officially winding down. While it has been memorable and loads of fun, I amSchool Bus mentally preparing for schedules, homework, after-school activities and early bedtimes. There are a lot of things to put into place before the school year begins. I hope you'll join me in using this Special Edition as a guide to making your lives as easy and smooth as possible this school year. From our families at Team JAB to all of yours, we wish you a very happy start to the school year. Happy JABBING!

 

-Boo 



We Repair Broken Educations
From Christina Nobbe:  REPLY
Bring us your child who has been struggling, falling behind or failing at school.   Using our proven, successful study methods, we will not only get your child back on track, but also make them eager for school!  Our full-time students move at their own pace, studying customized academic programs and receiving a lot of one-on-one attention in our classrooms of no more than 6 students per teacher.  We operate as a remote classroom for a licensed, private and accredited school and strive not only to meet but exceed Florida Sunshine Standards. Click HERE or call Christina at (305) 321.0031 to learn more.*





A Unique Learning Experience for Every Child
From Dr. Claudia Orrett:  REPLY
Your child is an individual. At Cherry Blossom Learning Center, all of our curriculum-based programs are designed to promote each child's individual development and growth in a stable, encouraging and nurturing environment. We are happy to announce the opening of our new location in Midtown. Cherry Blossom offers a well-rounded program including music, art, kidokinetics, French, computers and much more. Accepting children from infancy to 4 years old. Offering 10% off to County and School Board Employees with valid ID.   For more information, call 305-573-4445 or click HERE to visit our website.*


Help Your Kids Fall in Love with Math
From Elena Suarez:  REPLY
Math Monkey is a game-based math enrichment program for elementary and middle school age kids where your child will learn powerful techniques not normally taught in schools that will enable them to perform math mentally with great speed and accuracy.  Our classes are so much fun that your child will want to come back week after week. In addition to our enrichment program, we offer one-on-one Math Homework Help at our Knowledge Center and online tutoring in all subjects in the comfort of your own home.  Programs available for K - 12th grade and beyond. Click HERE for more details.*




Read Into Your Child's Reading Skills
By ages six and seven, your child should learn to read but by eight, they should read to learn.  Reading comprehension difficulties are sometimes the sign of a learning disability.  Parents can help. While reading a story, ask your child to predict what will happen next and interpret figures of speech.  If reading problems persist, an evaluation by an experienced child psychologist can help determine what the problem is.  Call Dr. Mendoza for more information at (305) 262-0806 or click HERE to visit our website.* 
 

Miami-Dade Health Department Providing Free Vaccines
From Team JAB
Doctor

The Miami-Dade Health Department will provide free vaccines for kids up to 18 years of age. Walk-ins only at the following locations through August 31st from 8 am - 3:30 pm:

 

  • Little Haiti Health Center, 300 NE 80 Terrace (Mon - Fri)
  • North Miami Clinic, 14101 NW 8 Avenue (Tues & Thurs)
  • Downtown Clinic (accepting adults too), 1350 NW 14 St (Mon - Fri; Sat, August 18th from 8 am - 12 pm)  

 

Parents or legal guardians must bring the child's immunization records and must be present when vaccinations are administered.  Call 786.845.0550 with questions or for more details. Information on school health requirements can be found at Miami-Dade County Public Schools' website by clicking HERE

 





Behave, You are in Polite Company
From Caroline Zachar:  REPLY
Give your child the advantage of polite manners, self-confidence and social dancing skills.  Polite Company invites your 3rd to 9th graders to join the Riviera Junior Cotillion on Tuesdays, September 25th to November 27th.  Ten classes will focus on Modern Manners appropriate for each age group featuring table manners, the art of conversation, telephone courtesy, proper attire, cell phone etiquette and  interviews to name a few.  Social dance includes the waltz, foxtrot, cha-cha, salsa, meringue, 60's dances, line dances and "Thriller".  Lessons are taught in a fun, engaging manner to ensure happy students!  Reply above or click HERE to learn more.*


Going the Extra Mile to Help Your Child Excel in School
From Michele Schwartz:  REPLY
Does your child need an extra boost to take his or her studies to the next level? Then look no further. As a certified teacher with more than 12 years of private tutoring experience, I am dedicated to changing your child's academic life. My full-time job is tutoring preschoolers to eighth graders in all subject matters, in addition to providing organization skills, homeschooling and test prep for the FCAT and SSAT. I service the Pinecrest/Palmetto Bay/Falls area so if you need an occasional hour or a standing weekly appointment, call me at 305.254.8326 or click HERE.  I have excellent references available - contact me today!*




Reward Yourself for Making it Through the Summer
It's back to school time at Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables and Mercedes-Benz of Cutler Bay.  The kids are going back to school. So, now that they have everything they need, it's time for you to reward yourself for making it through the summer. This month at Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables and Mercedes-Benz of Cutler Bay, there are terrific end-of-summer opportunities waiting just for you. The inventory is fantastic so it's a great time to come see us! Click HERE or call us at 305-476-5041 to learn more.*


Let Us Help You Manage Back-to-School Transitions
From Lina Acosta Sandaal, MA:  REPLY
The nest is offering workshops, groups, and individual assistance to help parents/kids transition successfully back to school. For the little ones, we have Mommy and Me groups. For kindergarteners and middle schoolers, we have transition groups.  For teens preparing for college admissions, we offer a personalized approach to the college essay and the SAT Critical Reading and Writing sections. Our college consultant has sixteen years of experience. He can assess a student's needs, set up an individualized SAT study program and help develop a college essay that is an authentic representation of the student's best self.  Click HERE for more information.*





Do You Have a Budding Artist in the Family?
From Misha Ebbert:  REPLY
Art is a wonderful way for children to express themselves and show their creativity! Beaux Arts Children's Pavilion is now enrolling students for Fall Art Classes.  Space is available for students interested in Ceramics, Basic Art and Advanced Art.  All classes are held at the Lowe Art Museum on the campus of the University of Miami.  The fall session begins September 10th. Register online HERE or email HERE with any questions regarding classes.*  


Encourage Your Child's Ballerina Dreams
From Geannina Burgos:  REPLY
Spend a fun-filled morning with your little one while getting in shape at Miami's oldest ballet school.  At Thomas Armour Youth Ballet, we are now offering Mommy & Me classes for toddlers ages two and up. These 45-minute classes include stretching, strengthening, and creative play while giving you a chance to meet other moms and children in the community who have your same interest in dance.  We also offer ballet classes for ages three years old to adults, daily, at our South Miami studio.  Classes begin on August 20th, so sign up today!  Click HERE to visit our website to learn more.*




Question Your Anxiety Level
If you answered yes to some or all of these questions, you may have a form of postpartum anxiety or depression. Get help today click HERE or contact Karen Haag at 305.740.8998 ext.147 for more information on a support group for moms just like you.*


JABBERS' Picks: Best Family Dining Spots
From Team JAB food
We asked you, JABBERS, where you like to take the kids when you're eating out on the town and we were overwhelmed with your responses. Here are a few of your favorites:

The Big Cheese and Wall's, Miami 

Says Denie Harris, "We love taking our kids to The Big Cheese. What kid doesn't love pizza? And what grown-up doesn't love garlic rolls? They have games for the kids and the pizza is delicious. And the best part of all is that after you finish eating, you can walk across the street to Wall's for ice cream!"

 

Arbetters Hot Dogs, Westchester 

Says Elizabeth Guerra, "My kids, ages 18, 13 and 10 LOVE Arbetters Hot Dogs as a special treat. We've had two birthday gatherings there so far, with more to come, I'm sure.  If you haven't been, be prepared for hot dogs, corn dogs, and fries with all the traditional variations. Your kids will beg to go back again and again."

 

Berrie's in the Grove, Coconut Grove

Says Jamie Rusk, "One of my family's favorite places to eat is Berries.  They have a beautiful outdoor courtyard that is surrounded by lush green foliage. The food is amazing with several signature dishes. If you're looking for a relaxing local restaurant that is kid friendly you can't go wrong with Berries." 

 

Tropical Chinese, Miami 

Says Adriana Vollmer, "Our kids' favorite is and has been (for years) Tropical Chinese for dim sum. They love the food  and as soon as you sit down, you can choose from the little dishes on the carts."   

 

Titanic Restaurant and Brewery, Coral Gables

Says Mary Ann Griese, "One of my family's favorite places to eat is Titanic.  Not only is it one of the only places in Miami that brews their own beer on-site, but it also has  some of the most amazing food! Be sure to try Titanic's Gangplank Salmon. You won't be disappointed! With relaxing neighborhood feel, you and your family will be sure to have a great time." 

 

Monty's, Coconut Grove  

Says Lauren Bijloos, "With our two-year-old, we enjoy outdoor places with live music. He loves to dance and play with the other children at Monty's in Coconut Grove." 


Lotus Garden, Coral Gables

Says Kathleen Slesnick, "We like to take the kids to Lotus Garden on Miracle Mile. With its relaxed vibe, we never feel like the kids aren't welcome. The big fish tank in the back helps too! And what kid wouldn't love cooking at their own table - the beef or chicken sautee comes with a mini grill on your table!"

 

Red Robin, Miami (The Falls) 

Says Melissa Acosta Rodriguez, "It serves gourmet burgers, shakes and a great kids menu with healthy options (like mandarin oranges, baby carrots, salad) and has balloons for the little ones."    






Start the School Year with All the Right Tools
From Dr. Marino E. Carbonell, National Certified Counselor:  REPLY
Dealing with family/parenting issues or relationship problems?  Does your teen need information on the risks of alcohol and drug abuse? I can help. I am a licensed psychotherapist with over 18 years of experience specializing in addiction-therapy. I offer confidential evaluations to adolescents and adults as well as private individual/family psychotherapy in Coral Gables and South Miami. My areas of expertise are substance and alcohol abuse, relationship problems, parenting and family issues. I help families deal with parent/teen conflict issues, stress and anxiety. I also work with the adults to deal with all types of addiction disorders and treatment, family systems, and relationship dynamics. Skype sessions available. For more information click HERE.*


School Time Equals Tutor Time
From Dorothy Matheson:  REPLY
Does your child need a little extra help with his/her school work?  I am a mature, professional private tutor with a graduate degree in teaching, ready to help your child of any age.  Specializing in English and Spanish at the middle and high school levels, I also thoroughly enjoy helping elementary age students with any subject.  With my upbeat, patient personality I will help your child improve his/her grades using positive reinforcement and encouragement.  I will come to your home and am available afternoons and evenings Monday through Friday, and afternoons on Saturdays.   To contact me, please Reply above.*




Your Future Awaits You
Palmer Trinity School serves a community of students in grades 6 to 12. November 15th: Early Decision. February 1: Regular Admission. Please contact us for a campus tour: (305) 969-4208 or via email HERE. The school is located at 7900 SW 176th Street, Palmetto Bay, Florida 33157. *


Healthy Eats for Life on the Go
From Roland Rafuls:  REPLY
Back to school means the return of schedules, homework and afterschool activities.  Simplify your life with healthy eats at EVOS Pinecrest.  Our restaurant checks off every box on the parenting wish list: healthy food kids actually like and eat (including airbaked fries and antibiotic-free chicken strips), a kid-friendly attitude (noise, mess and mom meetings welcome) and a sweet something to top it all off (bring on the organic chocolate shakes!). Stop in for a bite for an afterschool snack, or grab a quick and healthy dinner on the way home. Click HERE for your BOGO value deal meal that you will feel good about.*





Teen Drinking & Learning: What Every Parent Needs To Know
From Ana C. Ferro:  REPLY
Learn about the important connection between alcohol and learning at Informed Families' FREE Back To School Lunch & Learn event on Friday, August 24, 2012, from Noon to 1 pm. The event will be led by Dr. Sandra Brown, Vice Chancellor of Research at the University of California-San Diego, a well known researcher in the area of underage drinking and brain development.  Dr. Brown will share the latest information you need to help your kids grow up safe, healthy and drug-free. Click HERE for more information and HERE to RSVP and attend in person. Can't attend in person? Click HERE to RSVP for the Webinar.* 


Skills for School and Social Success
From Andres Focil:  REPLY
To ensure continued success in life, both academically and socially, a love of learning and self-confidence are essential.  At Skills Reading & Arts, our professional tutoring team understands the importance of identifying each student's individual learning style.  We teach children how to interpret the information conveyed at school and give them the support and encouragement they need to succeed in the classroom and beyond.  We work with students of all ages, elementary through high school, in all subjects.  Your child can come as often or as infrequently as they need, by appointment. Open House this Friday! Click HERE to visit our website or Reply above to learn more. JABBERS, mention this ad and receive 10% off for the first month.*




Back to School Open Houses - Please Join Us!
Open to everyone, excellence in educational programs are paramount at Temple Beth Am Day School. From 18 months to 5th grade, we offer a solid values-based foundation where a lifelong love of learning begins. The campus is alive with activities that stimulate spirit, mind and body. With the seeds of knowledge planted beautifully, the desire to learn continues to grow. Please call 305.665.6228 ext. 112 or send an email HERE.* 


Teachers' Tips to Start the Year Off Right
From Team JAB teacher
We went to the experts (teachers!) for tips on how to get ready for the school year. Read below for what they had to say.

Austin Elaine Garilli, Ph.D., Teacher of the Gifted Cosmos Center at Howard Drive Elementary offers tips for parents:
  • Organization is everything - find a big calendar and block out all of your child's activities.  Figure out what assignments are due weekly and block out time to work on those.  Then, each night, when your child comes home with homework written down, add in any long term assignments.  
  • Have your child work at a nice, clean desk - all electronics put away (unless you need the computer) with no distractions.  
  • Remember that teachers really want what's best for your child too. Make him/her your ally when you speak with them. We are not the enemy, and grades are not ammunition!  Oh, and we really like copy paper.  Like, really. 
  • Homework. I know, parents and kiddos dread that part of returning to school. But look at it this way, Olympic athletes don't just wake up and win the race. Training is involved.  Homework is like training for the championship game, with little exercises designed to make a you a stronger academic athlete. Sometimes the exercises aren't practice, they are new things to explore so that when you train with your team (er...your class) during the school day, you are all working together to win!

 

Michelle Vidal, AP/IB Language Arts Teacher at Coral Gables Senior High, has these tips for students:
  • Be proactive about your grades. Keep track of your grades in each class and don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Remember, it's better to ask for help the minute you feel like you are struggling - not after you see an F on a report card.
  • Be present. Be involved in class discussions. Come to class on time. If you are going to be late, don't arrive with Starbucks.
  • Everyone knows that colleges love well-rounded students. This does not mean you should join every club and sport in school. Choose one to three activities and try to stick with them all four years. It is better to be dedicated in a few activities than to be an inconsistent and unreliable member with too many commitments. This also gives your coach or sponsor a chance to get to know you really well which yields super awesome personal recommendations.
  • Know and respect deadlines. If you know you are going to have a difficult time meeting a deadline because you have three tests, two essays, and an out of town competition, you need to speak to your teacher several days before everything is due. Depending on who it is and how you approach him/her, you might be able to get an extension.  




Your Child's College is Calling! Don't Miss Out!
From Maite Halley:  REPLY NewJabLogoMay09
College application season is here but don't fight with your teenager and worry about deadlines! Maite Halley, Educational Consultant and founder of Your College Connector, will help your busy teenager get those college applications completed, streamline their list of essay questions to write as few original essays as possible and get the essays to tell their compelling story to their preferred colleges. You can also find out what colleges are their best fit academically, socially and financially. Sally Coords, retired college counselor at Palmetto, has joined our team! Special JAB "Back-To-School" rates and Florida College rates available. Click HERE or Reply above for more information.*




Dance Classes for All Ages!
Street Jamz Dance Studios is opening it's doors September 3rd in the Coral Gables/Coconut Grove area.  Directed by renowned choreographer, Janet Jones, the studio will offer classes for ages three through adult for beginner through professional levels who want to learn the moves they see on their favorite TV shows, concerts, and movies.  Core classes in ballet, jazz, contemporary, ballroom are offered. Specialized hip-hop classes in commercial pop, street, B-boying, and more. Click HERE  for more information.*


Is Your Child Scared or Anxious about School?
From Jill Ehrenreich-May, Ph.D.:  REPLY
It is common for children to feel a little worried about the new school year. However, some children and teens suffer from more intense social fears, separation anxiety and school-related worries that may interfere with their peer relationships, school attendance and academic performance. The University of Miami's Child and Adolescent Mood and Anxiety Treatment program offers state-of-the-art behavioral treatments for youth with anxiety disorders, some of which are available at low cost through on-going research studies. Please call us at (305) 284-9852, Ext. 1 or click HERE to learn more about our programs.*





Take the Stress Out of Homework
From Emma Curtis:  REPLY
Has your child's homework become too much to handle? Hiring a proven, effective tutor can help both you and your child. I am a Miami native, graduate of the Coral Reef IB program with a Chemistry degree from Purdue University. I am available to tutor your child in the convenience of your own home or a designated location of choice. My rates are reasonable and I have a proven track record, working especially well with teens. I specialize in middle and high school math and chemistry. References available upon request. Call me at (305) 206-8030 or Reply above for more information.*




Have a Ball Learning How to Play Soccer!
Soccer Cage Miami has partnered with Juventus F.C. to kick-off the Juventus Soccer Academy of Miami this fall. Be part of the excitement! Certified coaches will follow the Juventus school method, provide top quality, age appropriate technical and tactical exercises. Italian coaches from Italy will be visiting periodically to oversee the progress of the academy. Children will develop and improve their soccer skills in a fun and safe environment. For more information, call 305-609-4847 or e-mail HERE.*


Looking for Lunch Ideas?
From Team JABLunch Ideas
Is the thought of preparing school lunches stressing you out? We found a great resource to help you with healthy lunch options. Click HERE to read 100 Days of Real Food for ideas to liven up your child's lunchbox. Here is one of the great ideas:

Bread/fruit/cheese pinwheel kabobs, a mix of puffed brown rice cereal and sunflower seeds, and frozen peas/corn mix (pictured).

   





Happy JABBING


 

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