No single device, rule, or swim class can prevent every drowning. Children are safest when parents and caregivers use several protections at the same time: active supervision, barriers, swim skills, life jackets, rescue training, and CPR.

Drowning happens to the best parents and the best people. The goal is not guilt. The goal is preparation.

Drowning Can Happen in Seconds

Drowning can happen quickly and quietly. A child may slip into a pool, canal, lake, pond, or other body of water without splashing or calling for help. Never assume that a kid in trouble in the water will make noise.

Children under age 5 are at the highest risk. In Florida, enough young children drown each year to fill three to four preschool classrooms.

Key action: If don’t see your child, check nearby pools and other water areas first. Seconds matter.

What Are the Best Layers of Protection?

The NCH Safe & Healthy Children’s Coalition recommends using multiple layers of protection around water. These layers work together to prevent access, alert adults, and reduce injury if a child reaches the water.

Strong water safety for kids in Collier and Lee Counties includes:

• Active adult supervision
• Fences, gates, door alarms, and pool covers
• Swim lessons and water safety education
• U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets
• Basic water rescue skills
• First aid and CPR training

Each layer matters. None replaces another.

How Should Parents Supervise Kids Around Water?

There is no substitute for active supervision. When children are in or near water, give them your full attention.

Put away phones, books, long conversations, and other distractions while children are swimming or playing near water.

When several adults are present, use a Water Watcher system. One adult is assigned to watch the children for a set period, such as 15 minutes. Then another adult takes over.

This prevents the common mistake of assuming someone else is watching.

• Stay close enough to reach young children quickly.
• Watch children near pools, canals, lakes, ponds, beaches, and bathtubs.
• Never leave a child alone around water.
• Check water areas first if a child goes missing.

What Barriers Help Keep Children Away from Water?

Barriers help prevent young children from reaching water without an adult. They are especially important in Southwest Florida, where pools, canals, lakes, and ponds are common.

Walk through your home and yard from your child’s eye level. Look for any way a child could reach water without being seen.

Useful barriers include:

• Pool fences
• Self-closing and self-latching gates
• Secured doors
• Door and window alarms
• Pool safety covers
• Working drain covers

Alarms do not replace supervision or barriers. They add another layer by alerting adults if a door, window, or gate has been opened.

Collier County residents may be able to get free door or window alarms through the Florida Drowning Prevention Foundation. Visit floridadrowningpreventionfoundation.com/resources for details.

When Should Children Learn to Swim?

All family members should learn to swim well. The American Academy of Pediatrics says children can safely begin swim lessons as early as age 1, depending on readiness.

Choose swim lessons that match your child’s age, comfort level, and ability. Then keep practicing.

Children should also learn that they must never swim alone. An adult must watch them in the pool, canal, lake, or other water area. No one should ever swim alone, including adults. Anyone can drown, including strong swimmers.

Swim lessons reduce risk, but they do not make a child drown-proof. Even skilled swimmers need supervision.

• Teach children to ask an adult before they enter water.
• Use U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets for young or inexperienced swimmers, and always use a life jackets on a boat. It’s the law.
• Do not rely on floaties as safety devices. These inexpensive toys are just that – toys, not safety devices. Children can remove them easily, and they often leak or burst. They should never be used unless the child is a strong swimmer (without the aid of a floatie) or an adult is in the water.
• Keep young children within arm’s reach when in the water.

The Florida Drowning Prevention Foundation offers swim lesson scholarships for all age groups in Florida. Visit www.fldpf.org/swim-scholarship.

Where Can Families Find Life Jackets and Swim Resources?

Life jackets are an important layer of protection for young children and inexperienced swimmers. They should be U.S. Coast Guard-approved and fit properly.

The NCH Safe & Healthy Children’s Coalition has life jackets available at 18 Life Jacket Loaner Stations at public access beaches. Find the locations at Safe Healthy Children.

Before a beach, boating, or pool day, check that each child has the right-size life jacket and knows when to wear it.

For local water play ideas, review splash pads for kids in Collier and Lee Counties and places to get wet and cool off in Naples. Even at family-friendly water spots, supervision is still the most important safety rule.

What Should Parents Know About CPR and Rescue?

Parents and caregivers should know how to respond in a water emergency. Basic water rescue skills, first aid, and CPR can save a life.

Keep rescue equipment and a phone near the pool. Make sure babysitters, grandparents, and other caregivers know where they are.

Parents should also know what to do before an emergency happens:

• Take a CPR class.
• Learn basic water rescue skills.
• Post emergency numbers near the pool.
• Keep pool toys away from the water when not in use.
• Make sure all caregivers understand your water safety rules.

The Water Smart Collier website includes water safety resources, swim lesson locations, and CPR certification information for parents and caregivers. Visit watersmartcollier.com.

How Can Families Make Water Safety a Habit?

Water safety for kids in Collier and Lee Counties should be part of everyday family life. In Southwest Florida, water is everywhere, so prevention needs to be constant.

Talk about water rules before playdates, pool parties, beach trips, boating days, and visits to homes with pools.

Make one adult responsible for watching the water every time children are nearby.

• Review water rules before every outing.
• Ask about pool fences and alarms before playdates.
• Bring properly fitted life jackets when needed.
• Enroll children in swim lessons when they are ready.
• Update CPR training regularly.

Drowning is preventable. With supervision, barriers, swim skills, life jackets, CPR, and local resources, families can help keep children safer in and around water.

The post Water Safety for Kids in Collier and Lee Counties appeared first on SWFL Family.

Lee County dual enrollment options are expanding through a new partnership between The School District of Lee County and the University of Florida.

The district and UF announced an articulation agreement that gives qualified juniors and seniors in the district’s 15 high schools the only opportunity in Southwest Florida to register for dual-enrollment courses through UF.

According to the announcement, 68 students have already signed up to begin classes in August.

The program offers families another way for students to earn college credits while still in high school. For families comparing education options across Collier and Lee Counties, this partnership adds a new university pathway in Southwest Florida.

Where is the new UF dual enrollment program available?

The new Lee County dual enrollment agreement applies to qualified students attending one of The School District of Lee County’s 15 high schools.

Through the partnership, eligible high school juniors and seniors can register for dual-enrollment courses through the University of Florida.

The courses are fully online undergraduate courses taught directly by University of Florida faculty.

Students who complete UF dual enrollment courses can earn credits that fulfill requirements at UF. The announcement also states that earned credits can transfer to other public and private postsecondary institutions nationwide at their discretion.

Families should understand that transfer decisions are made by the receiving institution. Your child’s school counselor can help explain how credits may fit into graduation planning and future college goals.

The district says this agreement expands the dual enrollment opportunities already available to students through Florida Gulf Coast University, Florida SouthWestern State College, and Barry University.

Who can qualify for Lee County dual enrollment through UF?

To qualify for the UF Dual Enrollment program, students must maintain a minimum 3.6 cumulative unweighted high school GPA.

Students also must meet competitive standardized test score thresholds on the SAT, ACT, or CLT exams.

The announcement describes the program as an option for eligible high school juniors and seniors. It does not list additional eligibility details, deadlines, or course-by-course requirements.

Dr. Nathan Shaker, Chief Academic Officer for The School District of Lee County, said, “We are incredibly proud to partner with the University of Florida to offer our students a direct pipeline to one of the nation’s top public research universities,”

He added, “This agreement aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing diverse, rigorous, and competitive pathways that prepare our students for global success. Our students are more than ready to meet the challenge of UF’s top-tier curriculum.”

Families should check directly with their student’s school for application steps, testing requirements, and course selection support.

What courses and benefits does the UF partnership offer students?

Through UF Dual Enrollment, eligible students can choose from a catalog of fully online undergraduate courses.

The announcement says the courses are taught by University of Florida faculty and are designed to provide rigorous college-level learning.

For participating families, the UF courses will be provided at no cost. That can represent financial savings on future postsecondary education.

Key details for parents include:

• Courses are fully online.
• Courses are undergraduate-level UF classes.
• Courses are taught by University of Florida faculty.
• Participating families pay no cost for the UF courses.
• Credits fulfill requirements at UF.
• Credits may transfer to other institutions at their discretion.

Nico Rose, Assistant Provost and Senior Director for Teaching and Technology at the University of Florida, said, “We are excited to welcome Lee County to UF Dual Enrollment as we continue expanding opportunities for students across the state, from the Florida Keys to the Panhandle,”

Rose added, “By connecting high school students with rigorous, innovative UF courses, this partnership contributes to the future talent pipeline for our state by supporting college readiness and strengthening pathways to higher education.”

Next step: Talk with your child about whether online college coursework matches their schedule, study habits, and goals.

How can parents get more information or prepare their student?

Families interested in Lee County dual enrollment through UF should start with their student’s high school.

A counselor can help families understand whether the student meets the GPA and testing requirements listed in the announcement.

Before asking about the program, parents may want to gather:

• Your child’s current grade level.
• Your child’s cumulative unweighted GPA.
• Any SAT, ACT, or CLT score information.
• Your child’s current high school course schedule.
• Questions about how online UF courses may affect graduation planning.

Families can also contact the district media relations office listed in the announcement for more information.

For more information, contact Riley Kempton, Assistant Director, Media Relations and Public Information, at 239-461-8420 or RileyK@leeschools.net.

Next step: Contact your student’s high school and ask about UF Dual Enrollment registration, eligibility, and available courses.

The post Lee County Dual Enrollment Adds University of Florida Courses for Eligible High School Students appeared first on SWFL Family.

For families in Collier and Lee Counties, understanding asthma symptoms and knowing how to respond can make a major difference in a child’s quality of life.

What Is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the lungs and airways. During an asthma flare-up, the airways become inflamed and narrow, making it harder for air to move in and out of the lungs.

Because asthma affects breathing, it can become serious if symptoms are not treated quickly. However, asthma is highly manageable with proper medical care and daily symptom control.

Common asthma symptoms in children include:

• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness
• Fatigue during physical activity

What Triggers Asthma Symptoms?

An asthma trigger is anything that irritates the airways and causes symptoms to worsen. Every child’s triggers can be different, which is why paying attention to patterns is important.

Common asthma triggers in children include:

• Pollen, dust, or mold
• Pet fur or dander
• Smoke exposure
• Cold weather
• Respiratory infections
• Strong cleaning products or fragrances
• Exercise or vigorous activity
• Stress or anxiety

Start identifying what makes your child’s symptoms worse. Some triggers can be reduced at home or school, helping prevent future asthma attacks.

What Happens During an Asthma Attack?

An asthma attack occurs when the airways become severely inflamed and narrowed. Mucus can build up, making breathing even more difficult.

Signs of an asthma attack may include:

• Persistent coughing
• Fast breathing
• Wheezing
• Difficulty speaking or catching breath
• Chest tightness
• Blue lips or fingernails in severe cases

Quick treatment matters. A pediatrician may prescribe a rescue inhaler that works rapidly to open the airways and relieve symptoms before they become an emergency.

Which Children Are at Higher Risk?

Several factors can increase a child’s likelihood of developing asthma. Children with allergies or a family history of asthma are often at greater risk.

Other risk factors include:

• Frequent upper respiratory infections
• Exposure to cigarette smoke
• Living in areas with poor air quality
• Being overweight
• Higher stress levels
• Living in lower-income households

Young boys are also more likely to develop asthma during childhood. Studies show asthma rates are often higher among Black, Native American, and Hispanic children.

How Can Parents Help Manage Childhood Asthma?

An asthma diagnosis can create worry and uncertainty for families. The key is building a consistent management plan that helps prevent flare-ups and keeps symptoms controlled.

1. Reduce Exposure to Triggers

Focus on the triggers you can control. Small changes at home can make a meaningful difference.

• Wash bedding regularly in hot water
• Use air filters when possible
• Vacuum frequently to reduce dust
• Avoid smoking around children
• Limit exposure to strong scents or harsh cleaners
• Communicate asthma concerns with your child’s school

Prevention is one of the most effective asthma tools.

2. Use Medications Consistently

Children with asthma are often prescribed two types of inhalers: controller inhalers and rescue inhalers.

Controller inhalers are used daily to reduce inflammation and prevent symptoms over time. Rescue inhalers work quickly during flare-ups to relieve breathing problems.

Consistency matters. Skipping daily medications can increase airway inflammation and raise the risk of severe asthma attacks.

3. Create an Asthma Action Plan

Every family should work with a healthcare provider to develop a written Asthma Action Plan. This guide outlines daily medications, warning signs, emergency steps, and when to seek medical care.

An Asthma Action Plan may include:

• Daily medication schedules
• Known asthma triggers
• Instructions for flare-ups
• Emergency contact information
• Symptoms that require urgent medical care

Share this plan with caregivers, teachers, coaches, and school nurses so everyone understands how to respond if symptoms appear.

Can Kids With Asthma Still Play Sports?

Yes. Many children with asthma safely participate in sports, dance, swimming, and other physical activities. Staying active supports both physical and emotional health.

The goal of asthma management is not to limit childhood experiences. Instead, it is to control symptoms so children can participate confidently and safely.

Talk with your pediatrician about exercise-related symptoms and whether medication should be used before physical activity.

When Should Parents Seek Emergency Care?

Some asthma symptoms require immediate medical attention. Call 911 or seek emergency care if your child:

• Struggles to breathe
• Cannot speak in full sentences
• Has lips or fingernails turning blue
• Does not improve after using a rescue inhaler
• Appears confused or extremely fatigued

Trust your instincts. If your child’s breathing seems severely impaired, seek help immediately.

Helping Children Thrive With Asthma

Managing childhood asthma takes teamwork between parents, children, schools, and healthcare providers. By understanding symptoms, avoiding triggers, using medications properly, and preparing for emergencies, families can help children stay healthy and active.

With the right support and treatment plan, children with asthma can continue enjoying school, sports, friendships, and everyday adventures throughout Collier and Lee Counties.

Healthcare Network provides pediatric care focused on children’s health and development at every stage. To schedule an appointment with a pediatric provider, call 239-658-3000 or visit HealthcareSWFL.org.

The post Managing Childhood Asthma: What Parents Need to Know appeared first on SWFL Family.

Collier County Public Schools is hosting the event in partnership with local law enforcement and community organizations. The focus is practical: social media misuse, online gaming risks, child exploitation, and human trafficking.

For families in Collier and Lee Counties, this forum offers a local opportunity to hear real-world information from people working directly on child protection concerns.

Where is the Online Safety Forum for Parents being held?

The forum will be held at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Administrative Center Board Room.

• What: Community Forum on Online Safety and Child Protection
• When: Monday, May 11, 2026 | 6:00 p.m.
• Where: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Administrative Center Board Room (5775 Osceola Trail, Naples, FL)

The event is designed for families who want to better understand the digital spaces where children spend time. That includes social media platforms, online games, and other internet-based communication.

Why is this child online safety forum important for families?

Recent data shared by the Collier County Sheriff’s Office shows why this topic is urgent for local families.

• Reports of AI-generated child sexual abuse material have increased by more than 31,000% nationwide in the past three years.
• Cases of sextortion and online enticement have risen by more than 3,400% since 2021.
• From 2023-2025, the Southwest Florida Intercept Task Force initiated more than 2,600 investigations and identified 177 child victims.
• Local law enforcement seized approximately 500,000 files of child sexual abuse material during that same period.

These numbers can feel overwhelming. The purpose of the Online Safety Forum for Parents is to turn concern into useful knowledge and action.

The forum will focus on the growing threats children may face online. It will also address how families can better recognize risks in the digital landscape.

What online risks will parents learn about at the forum?

The forum will address several areas that affect children and teens online. These topics are connected because children often move between apps, games, messages, and social spaces throughout the day.

• Social media misuse
• Online gaming risks
• Child exploitation
• Human trafficking
• Sextortion and online enticement
• AI-generated child sexual abuse material

Collier County Public Schools says the forum is designed to equip families with practical knowledge, real-world insights, and actionable tools. The goal is to help families better safeguard children in today’s digital landscape.

This can be especially helpful if your child uses online games, social media, chats, or shared devices. Even families with strong household rules may benefit from hearing current information from local experts.

Next step: Make a list of the apps, games, and online spaces your child uses most often.

Who is hosting the Online Safety Forum for Parents?

Collier County Public Schools is hosting the forum in partnership with local law enforcement and community organizations. The event is part of a broader effort to help families understand and respond to online child safety concerns.

The Collier County Sheriff’s Office shared the data behind the forum’s urgency. Local law enforcement and community partners will help provide information rooted in real investigations and local experience.

For parents in Collier and Lee Counties, this event can offer a clearer picture of what child exploitation and online enticement may look like today. It also gives families a chance to hear about these issues in a local setting.

How can parents prepare before attending?

You do not need to be a technology expert to benefit from this forum. The event is intended to help families gain practical knowledge and tools.

Before you attend, consider writing down the online safety questions that matter most in your home. You may want to think about social media, gaming, messaging, privacy, or how to recognize concerning online behavior.

• Review what devices your child uses.
• Write down the apps, games, and platforms your child mentions often.
• Think about any recent online safety concerns in your home.
• Bring a notebook or use your phone to take notes.

The forum will not replace ongoing family conversations, but it can give you better language and local context for those talks.

Share the event with another parent, caregiver, or school family who may benefit.

What should families do if they want to attend?

Families who want to attend the Online Safety Forum for Parents should plan to arrive at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Administrative Center Board Room by 6:00 p.m. on Monday, May 11, 2026.

The address is 5775 Osceola Trail, Naples, FL. The press release did not list a registration requirement, cost, or contact phone number.

This forum is a timely opportunity for parents and caregivers who want to better protect children from online exploitation and human trafficking risks. It also gives families in Collier and Lee Counties a local place to learn more about online safety concerns affecting children.

The post Online Safety Forum for Parents in Naples Helps Families Protect Children appeared first on SWFL Family.

The Brain Skills Behind Focus Are Still Growing

Focus isn’t fixed. It’s made. Slowly, across thousands of moments where a child’s brain learns to pause, hold, shift. Executive function — the architecture behind planning, regulation, working memory — it doesn’t flip on like a switch. It grows through rhythm, story, and turn-taking. There’s strong evidence that executive function skills develop throughout childhood, especially when sensory engagement is consistent — not perfect, but present.

Support Your Child Without Overhauling Your Life

Adding “music therapy” to a parent’s to-do list can feel… impossible. But the point isn’t to overhaul. It’s to start where you already are. Songs during the commute. Sound games at dinner. A speaker in the bathroom while getting ready for school. Small entries matter. Rhythm doesn’t ask for commitment — it asks for return. And no matter how busy your schedule is, those returns are possible, even joyful, when they don’t feel like work.

Rhythm Helps Attention Settle Into Place

Rhythm doesn’t demand. It invites. Children with ADHD often find that rules feel jagged, while rhythm feels… doable. Structured beats give form to scattered attention, offering the body something to hold before the mind can catch up. And that, neurologically, matters. The brain needs time + pattern to develop. Harvard research highlights how executive function affects planning and focus — and shows that skills like impulse control don’t emerge through willpower alone. They arrive through repetition that feels real.

Emotional Regulation Comes Through the Body First

You don’t talk a child down from a meltdown. You reach them — usually before the words come. In music therapy, the reaching happens through tone, breath, mirrored phrasing. Predictable songs with slight variation. The body relaxes because it knows what’s next. That’s emotional regulation, but built through sound. The science is clear: childhood self‑regulation builds emotional resilience most effectively when it engages the nervous system first — long before it becomes a lesson.

Music Therapy Fits Between Medical and Everyday Support

Parents are often told they have two choices: medicate or struggle. But that’s not the whole map. Some of the most effective tools live in the quiet middle — where rhythm meets brainwork, and nobody’s being tested or timed. Music therapy doesn’t replace clinical care. It complements it. And it does so without asking children to be still in order to be seen. 

Cognitive Growth Happens Through Musical Engagement

Children don’t always need to sit still to learn. In fact, they often learn more when they move — especially when movement has rhythm. Drumming, clapping, repeating sound patterns: these aren’t distractions. They’re neural tools. Patterns reinforce timing. Timing reinforces recall. Recall supports every single part of learning. And long-term studies confirm that active music training enhances cognitive growth, even in non-musical domains like problem-solving and sustained attention.

A Safe Way to Learn and Express

It’s not just about sound — it’s about what the sound gives back. Music therapy offers safe, low-stakes space for trying, failing, returning. Children track their own participation in ways they can’t always verbalize. A soft drumbeat becomes “I finished something.” A turn in a rhythm game becomes “I stayed with it.” These moments are no matter how busy your schedule is subtle — but they build identity. In fact, music helps kids form internal confidence before external praise even shows up.

There’s no single fix for ADHD. There’s rhythm, though. And music. And the slow learning of what your child can stay with — not because they’re forced to, but because they want to. Music therapy helps attention take root in the body before it’s asked to show up on command. Focus follows rhythm. Regulation follows connection. And sometimes, the most progress happens not through discipline or data, but in the pause between beats — when the child knows they’re still held.

Where Can Southwest Florida Families Start?

There is no single fix for ADHD. There is rhythm, connection, and the slow discovery of what helps your child feel steady enough to try.

Families in Collier and Lee Counties can also look for local activities that include music, movement, art, and sensory-friendly support. The goal is not to force performance. The goal is to give your child more ways to participate.

For more local support, explore the SWFL Special Needs Resource Guide.

Music therapy for ADHD helps attention take root in the body before it is asked to show up on command. Focus follows rhythm. Regulation follows connection. And sometimes, progress happens in the pause between beats, when a child knows they are still held.

The post How Music Therapy Helps Children with ADHD in Collier and Lee Counties appeared first on SWFL Family.

Why is a parked car so dangerous for children?

A hot car can become deadly much faster than many parents realize. On an 80-degree day, the inside of a vehicle can reach 109 degrees in just 20 minutes.

Children’s bodies heat up faster than adults’, which means a short errand or moment of distraction can turn into an emergency. Never leave your child alone in a car, not even for a minute.

What does A-C-T mean for parents?

The Department of Health’s message is easy to remember and easy to use. It gives parents and caregivers a practical plan for hot car safety for kids.

A — Avoid heatstroke

Never leave your child alone in a vehicle. That includes quick stops at the store, returning a shopping cart or running inside the house.

Lock your car when it is not in use. Children can climb into an unlocked vehicle on their own and become trapped, even if you do not have young children in your household.

C — Create reminders

Busy routines, lack of sleep and changes in schedule can all disrupt memory. Build reminders into your daily routine so your child is never forgotten in the back seat.

• Put your purse, wallet, employee badge or laptop in the back seat.
• Place your cellphone beside your child if you will need it at your destination.
• Use a visual cue, such as a stuffed animal in the front seat when your child is buckled in back.
• Ask your child care provider to call if your child does not arrive as expected.

Create a system you use every single trip. The more automatic it becomes, the safer your routine will be.

T — Take action

If you see a child alone in a locked car, act immediately. Call 911 right away.

A child showing signs of heatstroke must be removed from the vehicle as quickly as possible and cooled rapidly. Do not wait to see if someone returns.

How can families build safer daily routines?

Most tragedies happen when a routine changes or a caregiver is distracted. Prevention works best when it is built into everyday habits.

• Check the back seat every time you park.
• Keep a diaper bag or child item where you can see it before exiting.
• Text or call your partner after drop-off.
• Set calendar alerts for child care drop-off and pick-up times.
• Talk with grandparents, babysitters and older siblings about hot car safety.

Make “Park. Look. Lock.” your end-of-trip routine. It takes seconds and can prevent a tragedy.

How can Collier and Lee County parents spread awareness?

Hot car safety is a community issue, not just a parent issue. Neighbors, relatives, teachers and caregivers all play a role in child heatstroke prevention.

Share the A-C-T message with anyone who transports your child. Post a reminder in your car, save emergency contacts in your phone and talk openly about the risks with friends and family. In Collier and Lee Counties, where warm temperatures arrive early and stay late, these reminders matter throughout spring and summer.

Where can parents get more child safety support locally?

DOH-Collier is hosting a car seat safety check from 12 to 2 p.m. on April 7, 2026. Events like this can help families review basic safety practices and ask questions about protecting children on the road.

Safe Kids Southwest Florida hosts car seat safety inspections across Hendry, Glades, Collier, Charlotte, and Lee County, where parents receive one-on-one personalized instruction on how to properly install and use their children’s car seats.

Car and booster safety checks are performed by Nationally Certified Passenger Safety Technicians.

Agencies with Certified Car Seat Safety Technicians in Collier County

Call to make an appointment at one of the providers listed below.

• Collier County EMS – 239-252-3740
• Collier County Sherriff’s Office – 239-252-0367
• Greater Naples Fire Rescue – 239-348-7540
• Twinkle Twinkle Little Store – 239-262-5904

What is the one message parents should remember?

Hot car death prevention in Collier and Lee Counties comes down to a habit every caregiver can practice: Park. Look. Lock. Never leave a child alone in a car, create reminders before every trip and take immediate action if you see a child in danger.

For more seasonal family safety advice, read our Florida heat safety tips for children and our skin safety guide for Florida summers.

The post Hot Car Death Prevention in Collier and Lee Counties: Park. Look. Lock. appeared first on SWFL Family.

Nova Classical STEM Academy plans to launch its inaugural school year serving grades K–7. The tuition-free public charter school also plans to expand annually until it serves grades K–12.

For families in Southwest Florida, this event offers an early look at a new education option designed to combine Classical education with STEM-focused, project-based learning. That may be especially useful for parents in Collier and Lee Counties who are comparing school choices before the 2026–27 school year.

Where can families go and what will happen at the event?

The ceremony will take place at Nova Classical STEM Academy, 7101 Banway Road, Fort Myers, FL 33967. The event runs from 1–3 p.m. and is being hosted in partnership with the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce.

According to the announcement, the event will include brief remarks from community leaders, a ceremonial ribbon cutting, and guided campus tours. Parents and community members will also have the chance to learn more about the school’s educational model and opening plans.

• Date: Saturday, April 18, 2026
• Time: 1–3 p.m.
• Location: 7101 Banway Road, Fort Myers, FL 33967
• Event features: remarks, ribbon cutting, guided tours

Several local and school leaders are expected to attend, including Dr. Yalcin Akin, president of Discovery Science Schools, and Matt Sheets, founding principal of Nova Classical STEM Academy.

• Dr. Yalcin Akin, President, Discovery Science Schools
• Matt Sheets, Founding Principal, Nova Classical STEM Academy
• John Lai, Interim President & CEO, Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce
• Trish Petrosky, Lee County Commissioner, District 5
• Kevin Anderson, Mayor, City of Fort Myers

This makes the event more than a photo opportunity. It is also a practical chance for parents to see the campus before the school year begins and hear directly from the people leading the school and supporting its launch.

What makes Nova Classical STEM Academy different from other school choices?

Nova Classical STEM Academy says it blends a Classical education foundation with STEM-enriched, project-based learning in a tuition-free public charter school setting. The school has been approved by the Lee County School Board and is scheduled to open in August 2026.

The school describes its model as one that is rooted in classical humanistic values and enriched with modern scientific exploration. For parents, that means the academy is presenting itself as a school that aims to combine core academic traditions with hands-on STEM learning.

The press release also states that Nova Classical STEM Academy is the first school in the world to integrate these elements in this specific tuition-free public charter format. Families interested in new education models may want to ask how that approach will look in day-to-day classroom life once the campus opens.

At opening, the school is expected to serve grades K–7. It plans to add grade levels each year until it reaches K–12.

• Opening: August 2026
• Initial grades: K–7
• Future plan: expand annually to K–12
• School type: tuition-free public charter school

That long-range growth plan could matter to families looking for continuity over time. It may also interest parents who want to learn whether younger children can remain in the same school community as they move into later grades.

The announcement positions the school as a new option for Southwest Florida families and ties the opening to growth in the region’s future workforce and community. For parents in Collier and Lee Counties, that puts this launch on the radar as both a school story and a local development story.

Who is this school for and is it free?

Nova Classical STEM Academy is described as a tuition-free public charter school. That is one of the clearest practical details for families deciding whether to attend the event or follow the school more closely.

Based on the release, the school will open with grades K–7 in August 2026. Parents of children in those grades may find the ribbon cutting especially useful because it offers an early introduction to the campus and leadership team.

The press release does not include application steps, enrollment deadlines, transportation details, or other policy information. It also does not list eligibility requirements beyond the grades the school plans to serve at opening.

That means the event may be a good starting point for families who want a first look, but you may still need to follow up directly for enrollment and operational details. It is smart to write down your top questions before you attend.

• Will your child be in grades K–7 for the August 2026 opening?
• Do you want to see the campus before the school year starts?
• Are you comparing charter, public, or other school options in Fort Myers?
• Would a Classical and STEM-focused approach fit your child’s learning style?

Parents who want more family resources can also visit the Neapolitan Family homepage and the Parenting section for additional local information.

Next step: Bring a few written questions about enrollment, grade expansion, and daily programming so you can make the most of the event.

How can parents prepare and who should they contact for more information?

If you plan to attend, the most helpful preparation is simple. Confirm the event time, keep the school address handy, and leave room in your schedule for a guided tour and brief remarks.

If you cannot attend or need more information, the school’s website and phone number were included in the announcement. Families can learn more at NovaClassical.net or call 239-483-8340.

For parents, the key contact from the release is the school itself. Calling ahead may help if you want to confirm event details, ask about the August 2026 opening, or learn when more enrollment information will be available.

The Nova Classical STEM Academy ribbon cutting gives families a practical way to see a new Fort Myers campus before students arrive. It also gives the community a closer look at a school that plans to grow from K–7 to K–12 over time.

The post Nova Classical STEM Academy ribbon cutting opens a new Fort Myers school option appeared first on SWFL Family.

What does hotel inclusion actually look like for families?

Compass Hotel Naples is one of the few local properties intentionally working to create a more inclusive experience for families. The hotel has earned Autism Double Checked certification, and that matters because it signals preparation, not just good intentions.

But for me, the most important part was this: the support did not feel performative. It did not feel like anyone was trying to prove something. It felt natural, calm, and built into the experience.

That is what many families are looking for when they travel. Not special treatment. Not a spotlight. Just a place where their child can move through the environment in their own way without everything becoming a moment.

Why does staff training matter so much?

When a hotel invests in autism-specific training, it changes more than policy. It can change the tone of a stay from the moment a family arrives.

Training matters because families often notice right away whether a space feels flexible, patient, and prepared. They can tell when a team understands that communication may look different, that sensory needs may shape a child’s behavior, and that comfort does not always look the same from one guest to the next.

That kind of preparation gives families room to exhale. It helps parents spend less energy explaining and managing, and more energy simply being present with their children.

How did that support show up during our stay?

What stood out to me most was how subtle it all felt. My son sat in the lobby, taking in the environment in his own way. No one rushed him. No one drew attention to it. No one made it feel unusual.

You notice that immediately as a parent. You notice when a space allows your child to exist as they are. You notice when no one is pressuring, correcting, or turning your family into a problem to solve.

That kind of ease is difficult to manufacture. It has to be built into the culture of a place. And during our stay, it was present in a way that let us settle in instead of stay on alert.

What made the pool feel different for our family?

At the pool, something happened that does not happen everywhere. What can sometimes be the hardest part of a hotel stay became the best part for one of my sons.

He was relaxed, smiling, and completely in the moment. My other son found comfort nearby in a totally different way, drawn to the fire feature and content to experience the space on his own terms. Both of them were able to be themselves, side by side, without either experience needing to be corrected.

I got in the water with my son, and for a moment we were not navigating, managing, or anticipating. We were just a family enjoying the moment. That may sound simple, but for many families, it is not a small thing.

Why do these small moments matter so much?

Because they are not really small. They are the whole point.

Families who live with sensory differences, communication differences, or anxiety around new environments often arrive carrying more than luggage. Parents are scanning, planning, adjusting, and trying to stay ahead of the next hard moment. So when a place feels prepared before you even arrive, the shift is enormous.

Inclusion is not just about access. It is about what access makes possible.

• More comfort for children moving through a new space
• Less pressure on parents to explain every need
• More opportunities for siblings to enjoy the same outing
• More room for a family to relax together instead of just cope

That is what stayed with me after this visit. Not one dramatic moment, but a series of small, steady experiences that made our family feel more comfortable and more able to enjoy being there.

Why is inclusive travel still hard to find?

Finding places that work well for families can still be a challenge, especially for families navigating autism or sensory needs. Many destinations may mean well, but families often do not know what a place will actually feel like until they get there.

That uncertainty can make even a short hotel stay feel risky. Will staff understand? Will the environment feel manageable? Will your child be given space? Will you spend the whole time trying to make your family fit the setting instead of enjoying it?

That is why efforts like this matter. They reduce guesswork. They help families feel considered before check-in, not only after something goes wrong.

What can parents look for when choosing an autism-friendly hotel?

If you are planning a local getaway, it helps to look past broad promises and pay attention to how a property supports families in real life.

• Ask whether staff have autism-specific or sensory-awareness training
• Look for signs that inclusion is part of the guest experience, not an afterthought
• Notice whether the property seems calm, flexible, and family-friendly
• Choose places that help your family feel welcome without needing constant explanation

What does Compass Hotel Naples get right?

What Compass Hotel is doing well is thinking about inclusion before families even arrive. That matters more than any single amenity. It means the experience is shaped by awareness, preparation, and consistency rather than depending on a family to advocate for every need in the moment.

For our family, that made the stay feel less like work and more like rest. We got to just be a family. And honestly, that is what so many parents are hoping for when they book a night away.

If your family is looking for more local support, Neapolitan Family also offers resources on sensory-friendly experiences for kids in Southwest Florida, the SWFL Special Needs Resource Guide, and more special needs articles for Southwest Florida families.

Why does this story matter beyond one hotel?

Because families remember how a place made them feel. They remember whether their child was given space. They remember whether they were able to relax, even briefly. They remember whether the experience felt like hospitality or like survival in a new setting.

Compass Hotel is helping move that experience in a better direction. Not by making grand promises, but by creating an environment where inclusion feels visible in practice.

And for families like mine, that can mean everything.

Special Autism Double Rate for Southwest Florida Families

Compass Hotel by Margaritaville Naples has introduced a new promotion. The Autism Double‑Checked Comfort Stay offers up to 20% off accommodations for families traveling with loved ones on the autism spectrum. The offer is available year‑round, based on availability. Learn more here.

Learn more

Margaritaville Fort Myers Beach and Compass Naples Achieve Autism Certification for Inclusive Travel

The post How Compass Hotel Naples Is Creating a More Inclusive Stay for Families appeared first on SWFL Family.

The color in food comes from natural compounds called phytonutrients. These compounds help to protect the body from illness, reduce inflammation, and support vital systems such as the digestive, cardiovascular, and nervous systems. Additionally, a rainbow-rich diet supports energy levels, concentration, and physical activity – important factors for learning and play.

Eating the rainbow is especially important for growing children because their bodies and brains need a wide range of nutrients to develop properly. Eating a variety of colors also helps children develop healthy eating habits early in life. Colorful meals can encourage picky eaters to try new foods. Early exposure to a wide range of flavors and textures can increase food acceptance and reduce the risk of nutrient deficiencies.  A simple way to start is to add one new color to each meal – add berries to breakfast, eat leafy greens at lunch, and include roasted vegetables at dinner. By choosing a diverse range of colorful foods, you help to nourish your child’s body completely, support long-term health, and make meals more visually appealing and enjoyable. Eating the rainbow turns healthy eating into a habit that is both practical and delicious!

Easy color-by-color ideas kids will actually eat

If you’re not sure what counts, use this simple guide. Aim to rotate choices rather than relying on the same produce every time. Frozen fruits and vegetables count, too, and they’re often budget-friendly and easy to keep on hand.

Red

• Strawberries or watermelon cubes
• Cherry tomatoes (try them halved for easier chewing)
• Red bell pepper strips with hummus

Orange and Yellow

• Mandarin oranges or mango chunks
• Roasted sweet potato wedges
• Yellow bell pepper slices or corn added to a bowl meal

Green

• Spinach blended into a smoothie (with banana and berries)
• Cucumber coins, avocado, or green grapes
• Broccoli roasted until lightly crisp

Blue and Purple

• Blueberries (fresh or frozen) on yogurt or oatmeal
• Plums, blackberries, or purple grapes
• Red cabbage slaw in tacos or sandwiches

White and Tan

• Cauliflower “poppers” roasted with olive oil and mild seasoning
• Apples, pears, or bananas
• Mushrooms added to pasta sauce or scrambled eggs

For more information on how to keep your child healthy, visit Collier.FloridaHealth.gov.

The post Get Kids to Eat the Rainbow appeared first on SWFL Family.

Is “henna” always safe for kids?

Not always. Natural henna has a long history in cultural and ceremonial traditions. It’s made from the dried leaves of the henna plant, creating a reddish-brown dye that’s applied to the skin without needles and typically fades within a few weeks. Many artists apply it with freehand designs or stencils, and it’s generally considered a safe, plant-based option.

The problem is that not every “henna tattoo” offered to tourists or families is natural henna.

What is black henna, and why is it risky?

“Black henna” tattoos often contain a chemical called para-phenylenediamine (PPD). PPD is commonly found in hair dye, but it is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use on the skin. When PPD is added to henna paste to make it darker and faster-staining, it can increase the risk of an allergic reaction.

DOH-Lee warns that reactions can range from mild irritation to severe blistering, permanent scarring, and long-term skin damage. Because kids’ skin can be more sensitive, families should be extra careful before saying yes.

How can I tell natural henna from black henna?

Color and transparency are your first clues, but they’re not enough on their own. Natural henna typically stains the skin a reddish-brown tone. Black henna paste may look dark brown or black, and the finished design may appear very dark right away.

Your best protection is asking questions and checking ingredients. A reputable artist should be able to tell you exactly what’s in the paste and provide an ingredients label.

• Ask for a copy of the ingredients label before any paste touches your child’s skin.
• If the paste is black or the artist can’t confirm it is PPD-free, the safest option is to avoid it.
• Choose natural henna from artists who use traditional, plant-based ingredients and are open about what they use.

What should parents ask before a temporary tattoo?

Kids often want a temporary tattoo because it feels like a fun, low-stakes souvenir. A quick parent check can keep that “fun” from becoming a weeks-long skin problem.

Use this quick question checklist

• “Can I see the ingredients label?”
• “Is this paste free of PPD?”
• “What color will it stain?” (Natural henna stains reddish-brown.)
• “How is the paste mixed and stored?” (A trustworthy artist should be comfortable explaining.)
• “Do you use fresh, plant-based henna?”

If the artist seems annoyed, can’t answer clearly, or won’t show ingredients, treat that as a red flag and move on.

What do reactions to black henna look like?

DOH-Lee notes that reactions can range from mild irritation to severe blistering. Some children may develop redness, itching, swelling, pain, or a rash that matches the shape of the design. In more serious cases, blistering can occur and may leave permanent scarring or ongoing skin sensitivity.

If your child has a reaction, remove the product as soon as you can and seek medical guidance. If symptoms are severe, worsening, or involve trouble breathing, facial swelling, or widespread hives, get urgent care right away.

Where are kids most likely to be offered black henna?

Families commonly see temporary tattoo booths at fairs, outdoor markets, beach destinations, theme areas, and travel shopping spots. Spring break and summer are especially busy in Southwest Florida, and kids may ask for a design while you’re focused on the rest of the outing.

Consider setting a simple family rule before you go: No temporary tattoos unless a parent sees the ingredients first.

What’s the safest choice for families in Collier and Lee Counties?

The safest approach is to avoid any product that may contain PPD. If your child truly wants a henna design, look for natural henna from reputable artists who use traditional, plant-based ingredients and who can show you what’s in their paste.

• Choose natural henna (plant-based, reddish-brown stain).
• Skip black paste or any product with unclear ingredients.
• Don’t “test” unknown paste on your child’s skin.
• Teach older kids to ask you first, even if friends are doing it.

Next steps for SWFL parents

Your skin is your body’s largest organ—so treat it with care. If you’re weighing a temporary tattoo for your child, make the decision based on ingredients, not appearance or convenience.

• Read the latest family health guidance and local wellness updates in our Health section.
• If you need care options, explore telehealth for families in Collier and Lee Counties or find walk-in health screenings.
• For more information and safety tips, visit FloridaHealth.gov.

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