A few things to know before you dive in:

• Many programs are already filling up. Collier County Parks & Rec registration opened March 2, 2026. Check availability now if you haven’t already.
• High schoolers can earn volunteer hours. Several programs on this list accept teen volunteers who can log community service hours toward scholarship requirements. Always check with your school counselor to see which programs qualify.
• Some organizations offer both camper, volunteer and counselors in training options. This can be a great option for older teens who want to build their résumés while spending a meaningful summer.

Also see: Southwest Florida Family’s full Camp Directory for a searchable list of area programs across all ages.

County Parks: Best Value for Working Families

If you need full-day programming that fits a work schedule, your county parks department is one of the most affordable and flexible starting points.

Collier County Parks & Recreation

Ages: Programs available for ages 11–18
Website: collierparks.com
Phone: 239-252-4000

Collier County Parks & Recreation offers a wide range of affordable summer programs for tweens and teens, including Camp Collier Middle School Camp, Junior Leader Training, Junior Lifeguard, tech and design camps, BMX, water sports, and AIR TOO Teen Camp for teens with disabilities. Options include full-summer, weekly, half-day, leadership, sports, and specialty programs, making this one of the most flexible choices for Collier County families.

Lee County Parks & Recreation

Ages: Middle school ages and up
Website: leeparks.org
Phone: 239-533-7275
Email: leeparks@leegov.com

Lee County offers affordable weekly camps with flexible hours that work for working parents, typically 7:30 a.m.–6 p.m. Programs include traditional day camp activities plus nature-themed specialty sessions such as kayaking, ecosystem exploration, wildlife walks, and more. Families can register online, in person, or by phone. Weekly registration is available, so there is no full-summer commitment required.

City of Naples Parks & Recreation

Ages: Programs available up to age 15
Website: naplesgov.com/parksrec
Phone: 239-213-3020

The City of Naples runs summer camps at multiple locations through July 31, 2026, including River Park Community Center from 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Camp options for tweens include sports, arts, aquatics, and technology. Visit the city’s 2026 Summer Camp page for the full location list.

Arts, Theater & Music

Alliance for the Arts

Ages: Programs available for ages 10–16 and 11–16
Website: artinlee.org
Phone: 239-939-2787
Address: 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers

Alliance for the Arts offers creative summer programs in Fort Myers for young artists and performers. Tween and teen options include Summer Film for ages 10–16 and Tech Theatre Bootcamp for ages 11–16. The Broadway Palm/Alliance Musical Theatre Intensive also includes a session for ages 11–15, giving students hands-on training in musical theater. This is a strong option for creative tweens and teens interested in visual arts, film, theater, and behind-the-scenes production.

Artis-Naples

Ages: 12–18
Website: artisnaples.org
Phone: 239-254-2643

Artis-Naples offers serious, pre-professional music camps in summer 2026 for older youth. All three programs culminate in a public performance:

• Music Makers Youth Symphonia Camp, Ages 10–17: A week-long chamber music intensive led by members of the Naples Philharmonic. Culminates in a free Friday evening concert. Financial assistance is available.
• Music Makers Youth Chamber Camp, Ages 12–18: A week of intensive rehearsals and performance led by Naples Philharmonic musicians. Financial assistance is available.
• Music Makers Youth Jazz Camp, Ages 12–18: Big band rehearsals, master classes, seminars, and improvisation, ending in a final performance. Financial assistance is available.

Artis-Naples also offers year-round volunteer opportunities for ages 15 and older. Contact the organization directly about summer volunteer availability.

Arts Bonita

Ages: Camps up to age 18; intern program for ages 15+
Website: artcenterbonita.org
Phone: 239-495-8989
Address: 10150 Bonita Beach Rd. SE, Bonita Springs

Arts Bonita offers summer camps for ages up to 18. Teen interns ages 15 and older can apply for a structured internship. After completing 30 service hours, interns receive a free teen or adult multi-week class.

Children for the Arts

Ages: 7–16
Website: childrenforthearts.com
Phone: 239-571-3305
Location: St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 625 111th Ave. N., Naples

Children for the Arts offers a Summer Stage Camp for young performers ages 7–16. The three-week afternoon camp includes acting, character study, improv, theater games, behind-the-scenes skills, and performance experience.

Cultural Park Theatre

Ages: Programs available up to age 18
Website: culturalparktheatre.org
Phone: 239-772-5862
Email: info@culturalparktheatre.org
Address: 528 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral

Cultural Park Theatre offers summer theater camps in Cape Coral with productions for older tweens and teens. Options include Annie Jr. and Legally Blonde for ages 7–15, plus 13 Jr. for ages 10–18. This is a good fit for students who want a performance-based theater camp experience with the opportunity to work toward a staged production.

Dance Arts by Maria

Ages: Summer intensives for ages 10–18; summer classes for ages 2–18
Website: naplesdancearts.com
Phone: 239-513-6999
Address: 5610 Yahl St., #10, Naples

Dance Arts by Maria offers summer dance programming for a wide range of ages, including intensive programs for serious dancers ages 10–18. Summer options include multiple dance styles and training opportunities for students who want to continue developing technique over the summer. This is a good fit for tweens and teens looking for structured dance training in Naples.

Fort Myers Theatre

Ages: Programs available up to age 14
Website: ftmyerstheatre.com
Phone: 239-323-6570
Address: 16120 San Carlos Blvd., Ste. 5, Fort Myers

Fort Myers Theatre offers summer theater camp options for younger performers, including a session for ages 9–14. This is a good fit for older tweens and young teens who want a theater-focused summer experience in Fort Myers, with opportunities to build performance skills in a supportive stage environment.

Gulfshore Opera Summer Youth Performance Camp

Ages: 8–11
Website: gulfshoreopera.org
Phone: 239-529-3925
Address: Estero Community Church, 21115 Design Parc Lane, Estero

Gulfshore Opera’s Summer Youth Performance Camp is a two-week performing arts program for younger tweens. Camp runs June 8–12 and June 15–19 from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Students explore choral singing, theater games, crafts, set design, ukulele classes, and drum circles. The experience culminates in a final performance of Phantom of the Music Room. Scholarships are available..

Gulfshore Playhouse – The Conservatory

Ages: Programs for teens through recently graduated seniors
Website: gulfshoreplayhouse.org
Phone: 239-261-7529
Address: 100 Goodlette-Frank Rd. S., Naples

Gulfshore Playhouse’s Summer Conservatory runs June through July with options for a wide range of ages and skill levels. For teens specifically:

• Disney’s Newsies Jr. Summer Production: Performances run July 13–August 2, 2026. Check the website for camp and audition details.
• Broadway Bootcamps: Week-long musical theater intensives are available throughout the summer.
• Financial assistance: Available through the Kizzie’s Kids Scholarship Fund.

No prior experience is required for many programs. This is a strong option for teens who want professional-quality training without a full year-round commitment.

Marco Island Dance Academy

Ages: 5–14
Website: marcoislanddanceacademy.com
Phone: 239-399-0551
Email: Info@MarcoIslandDanceAcademy.com
Address: 1089 N. Collier Blvd., #422, Marco Island

Marco Island Dance Academy offers summer dance intensive camps with students grouped by age and ability. Weekly sessions may include acro, ballet, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, flexibility, leaps, and turns. This is a good fit for tweens and younger teens who want a dance-focused summer option on Marco Island.

Naples Art Institute – ARTScool

Ages: 13–17
Website: naplesart.org
Address: 585 Park St., Naples

ARTScool runs dedicated sessions for ages 13–17 in painting, drawing, clay, printmaking, sculpture, and mixed media. Morning and afternoon sessions are available weekly throughout the summer, with early morning drop-off. Registration closes the Sunday before each week.

High school students ages 14 and older can also apply as volunteer interns at naplesart.org/volunteer.

The Naples Players – KidzAct Youth Theatre

Ages: 9–18
Website: naplesplayers.org
Phone: 239-263-7990
Address: 701 5th Ave. S., Naples

KidzAct offers audition-based summer productions for older tweens and teens. Check the website for 2026 show announcements and audition dates.

Players Circle Theatre

Ages: 8–15
Website: playerscircletheater.com
Phone: 239-800-3292
Address: 13211 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers

Players Circle Studio’s Dare to Dream Jr. Summer Camp runs June 8–21, 2026, for young performers ages 8–15. Over two weeks, campers explore acting, movement, voice, and storytelling in a creative theater environment. Camp runs Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. and concludes with live performances June 19–21. This is a good option for tweens and younger teens who want a full-day musical theater camp with a final showcase.

Outdoor, Nature & Adventure

Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary – Wild Florida Adventure Camp

Ages: Counselor-in-Training program for ages 13–16
Website: audubon.org/corkscrew/camps
Address: 375 Sanctuary Rd. W., Naples

Corkscrew runs a Counselor-in-Training camp for teens ages 13–16 in 2026. CITs gain hands-on experience supporting younger campers and may be able to earn volunteer hours for middle or high school. Weekly themes run June 1–July 17 at the sanctuary. Before- and after-care are available.

Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium

Ages: Select programs for grades 4–8
Website: calusanature.org
Phone: 239-275-3435
Address: 3450 Ortiz Ave., Fort Myers

Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium offers outdoor summer camps in Fort Myers with several options for older elementary and middle school students. Tween-friendly sessions include Wildlife Keepers for grades 4–6 and Outdoor Survival for grades 5–8. Campers explore native wildlife, nature skills, hands-on science, forest and swamp habitats, animal encounters, and outdoor challenges.

Empowerment Farm

Ages: Farmers Camp for ages 9–12
Website: empowermentfarm.org
Phone: 239-330-2777
Address: 2600 Garland Rd., Naples

Empowerment Farm offers a hands-on farm camp for older elementary students and younger tweens. Farmers Camp gives campers the chance to care for animals, grow food, explore nature, build life skills, and learn responsibility in a supportive outdoor setting.

Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve – Student Institute for Marine Science

Ages: Grades 7–10
Website: rookerybay.org
Phone: 239-530-5972
Location: Program locations vary; includes Rookery Bay facilities and field experiences

Rookery Bay’s Student Institute for Marine Science is a half-day marine science camp for students in grades 7–10. Campers get hands-on experience with marine life, science activities, lab work, and field-based learning alongside real scientists. This is one of the strongest academic outdoor options for middle and early high school students interested in marine science, conservation, and the local environment.

Scuba Outfitters

Ages: 10–17
Website: scubaoutfittersnaples.com
Phone: 239-280-5500
Address: 2305 Davis Blvd., Naples

• PADI Open Water Camp, Ages 10–17: Campers can earn a PADI Open Water certification.
• Junior Adventure Diver Camp, Ages 12–17: Students can progress beyond Open Water with advanced diving skills.

This is a standout option for water-loving tweens and teens who want a real, credentialed skill at the end of the summer.

Avow Kids – Camp MendingHeart

Ages: Volunteer opportunities for ages 16+
Website: avowcares.org
Phone: 239-261-4404
Address: 1301 Whippoorwill Ln., Naples

Avow accepts volunteers ages 16 and older to help support Camp MendingHeart, a day and overnight grief camp for children. Avow also holds additional summer events for all ages. This is a meaningful volunteer role for teens interested in service work.

Sports

Coast Elite Gymnastics Academy

Ages: 5–12
Website: coastelite.com/camps
Phone: 239-936-8467
Address: 6360 Arc Way, Fort Myers

Coast Elite Gymnastics Academy offers summer day camps for younger tweens who enjoy movement, tumbling, and active play. Campers work on gymnastics skills, play on ninja obstacle courses, and participate in themed activities, arts and crafts, games, tumbling, obstacle courses, and challenges. This is a good fit for active 11- and 12-year-olds looking for a sports-focused summer option in Fort Myers.

Cornerstone Farm South

Ages: Summer clinics available for ages 8 through adult
Website: cornerstonefarmsouth.com
Phone: 239-595-7618
Address: 1761 Rock Rd., Naples

Cornerstone Farm South offers summer riding clinics and equestrian programs for a wide range of ages and ability levels. Summer options may include horsemanship, riding skills, beginner through advanced clinics, and small-group instruction. Contact the farm directly for the current summer clinic schedule and availability.

Emilio Sanchez Academy Tennis Camp

Ages: Tennis summer camp for ages 8–25; Campito for ages 4–11
Website: emiliosanchezacademy.com
Phone: 239-263-1818
Address: 2035 Sanchez-Casal Way, Naples

Emilio Sanchez Academy offers summer tennis programs for recreational and competitive players, with training designed for a wide range of ages and skill levels. The academy’s summer camp includes tennis instruction, fitness, match play, lunch, pool time, and indoor activities. This is a strong option for tweens, teens, and serious tennis players who want structured summer training in Naples.

First Tee – Naples/Collier

Ages: Programs for ages 7–18; Jr. Tour for ages 12+
Website: firstteenaplescollier.org
Phone: 239-331-1800
Address: 801 Anchor Rode Dr., Naples

First Tee – Naples/Collier offers summer golf programs that combine golf instruction with character development and life skills. Summer camps introduce fundamentals of the golf swing while also focusing on confidence, goal setting, emotional management, and sportsmanship. Older tweens and teens ages 12 and up may also be interested in the First Tee Jr. Tour, which gives youth golfers the opportunity to participate in weekly 9- and 18-hole tournaments.

Fort Myers Tennis Academy

Ages: Camp options for ages 5–15; high-performance camp for ages 13+
Website: fortmyerstennis.com
Phone: 239-653-7773
Address: 1700 Matthew Dr., Fort Myers

Fort Myers Tennis Academy offers summer tennis programming for recreational and competitive players. The half-day summer camp includes tennis lessons, fitness training, swimming, lunch, match play, and doubles opportunities, with pickup at noon. Serious teen athletes can also consider the Summer High Performance Training & Fitness Camp for current competition-level players ages 13 and older. Players are grouped by ability level, making this a strong option for tweens and teens who want to improve their tennis skills over the summer.

Community Service & Teen Volunteer Opportunities

Many organizations in Collier and Lee Counties welcome teen volunteers for the summer. High schoolers, including rising ninth graders, should check with their school counselor to see which programs count toward scholarship hour requirements.

Boys & Girls Club of Collier County

Ages: Campers up to age 18
Website: bgccc.com
Naples Nichols Club: 239-325-1700
Immokalee Bolch Club: 239-675-7003

The Boys & Girls Club serves teens up to age 18 at two campuses in Naples and Immokalee. Camp runs Monday through Friday with early drop-off from 7:30 a.m. Financial assistance is available on a sliding fee scale. Each campus features dedicated teen centers, STEM labs, art studios, and sports facilities. Contact your nearest club for availability and scholarship information.

Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples

Ages: Teen Volunteer Program for ages 15–18
Website: cmon.org
Phone: 239-260-1600

C’mon’s Teen Volunteer Program is open to ages 15–18 and runs year-round, including throughout the summer. Teen volunteers assist in a variety of areas across the museum and gain experience in a professional setting.

Artis-Naples Teen Volunteers

Ages: 15+
Website: artisnaples.org
Phone: 239-254-2643

Year-round volunteer opportunities are available for ages 15 and older. Contact Artis-Naples directly about availability for summer volunteer roles related to ArtSmart and other programs.

Naples Art Institute Teen Interns

Ages: 14+
Website: naplesart.org/volunteer

High school students ages 14 and older are invited to apply as volunteer interns. Check the website for the application and details.

Naples Therapeutic Riding Center

Ages: Teen volunteer opportunities may be available
Website: ntrc.org

Naples Therapeutic Riding Center has previously offered summer volunteer opportunities for teens ages 14–18, with a minimum commitment of two weeks in June or July. Contact NTRC directly to ask about summer volunteer availability before making plans.

Academic & Specialty Programs

Community School of Naples

Ages: Programs through grade 12
Website: communityschoolnaples.org
Phone: 239-597-7575
Address: 13275 Livingston Rd., Naples

Community School of Naples offers academic, sports, and specialty camps for students up to grade 12. Programs are open to both CSN and non-CSN students. This is a solid option for families looking for a structured, enrichment-focused summer experience.

Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead

Naples: 2659 Professional Cir. Ste. 1108
Fort Myers: 1901 Brantley Rd. #12
Phone: 239-689-3602

Created by local teachers, Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead runs weekly themed STEM sessions. Topics include Rocket Science, Lego Engineers, Robotics, and Chemistry. Programs are available for tweens at both Naples and Fort Myers locations. This is a good fit for kids who love hands-on science.

JEI Learning Center

Ages: Up to 8th grade
Website: jeilearning.com/naples
Phone: 239-922-6450
Address: 1495 Pine Ridge Rd., #5, Naples

JEI Learning Center’s summer program helps students strengthen and advance their math and reading skills over the summer so they stay ahead, not fall behind. Programs focus on math, English, reading, and writing. This is a good option for families looking for academic enrichment or summer learning support in Naples.

YMCA of Collier County

Ages: Up to age 17
Website: ymcacollier.org
Locations: Naples and Marco Island

The YMCA offers full-day summer camp programs for kids up to age 17, including specialty sessions in sports such as basketball, volleyball, tennis, pickleball, and soccer, as well as performing arts and swimming. Field trips, enrichment activities, and pool days are included. Financial assistance is available. Register online for the Naples and Marco Island campuses; visit a branch for other locations.

YMCA of Southwest Florida

Ages: Teen programs up to age 18
Website: ymcaswfl.org
Areas served: Lee County and Bonita Springs

The Bonita Springs Y has reimagined its camps for 2026 with progressive programming designed to grow with campers. Teen leadership and travel options are available. Check the website for updated schedules and locations.

The post Summer Camps & Programs for Tweens and Teens in Southwest Florida appeared first on SWFL Family.

As the holiday season approaches and kids are on winter break, holiday camps in Southwest Florida are here for your family’s needs. Whether your kids crave arts and crafts, sports, or want to foster friendships, there’s a camp for every preference.

Collier County 

CMON Winter Camp
Naples
Experiential learning through STEAM activities.
cmon.org

Inplay Family Fun Camps
Naples
Themed crafts and free play.
inplayfamilyfun.com

Naples Zoo Winter Camp WILD
Naples
Connect with habitats around the world.
napleszoo.org

Twist Naples Winter Camps
Naples
Get active and creative.
twistnaples.com

NPAC Holiday Camps
Naples
Dancing, singing, acting, and crafts.
naplesperformingartscenter.com

YMCA Collier Holiday Camps
Naples
Swimming, STEM projects, arts & crafts, and more!
ymcacollier.org

Collier Parks Winter Break Camp
Naples
Socialize and celebrate the holidays.
Collierparks.com

Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead Mini Camp
Naples
Learning opportunities and new friendships.
fullsteamaheadfl.com

Naples Element All Stars Christmas Camp
Naples
Christmas break camp.
napleselementallstars.com

Juan Romero Baseball Winter Super Camp
Naples
The basic mechanics of baseball.
juanromerobaseball.com

Gymnastics World Naples Holiday Camp
Naples
An unforgettable adventure. 
gwnaples.com

YMCA Winter Break Camps
Immokalee
Fun, friendship, and adventure. 
camp.fcymca.org

Lee County 

Arts Bonita Winter Camp
Bonita Springs
Visual arts, dance, theatre, and digital media.
artsbonita.org

STARS Winter Camp
Fort Myers
STEM, sports, and arts & crafts.
fortmyers.gov

IMAG History & Science Center Winter Camp
Fort Myers
Discoveries through experiments and challenges. 
theimag.org

Edison & Ford Winter Estates Camps
Fort Myers
Join the “living laboratory!” 
edisonfordwinterestates.org

Fort Myers Theatre Winter Camp
Fort Myers
Broadway Review Extravaganza.
ftmyerstheatre.com

Gymnastics World Fort Myers Winter Camp
Fort Myers
Open gym, arts and crafts, movies.
gymnasticsworldfortmyers.com

Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead Mini Camp
Fort Myers
Learning opportunities and new friendships.
fullsteamaheadfl.com

Fort Myers Skatium Ice Hockey Winter Camp
Fort Myers
Mini winter hockey camp.
facebook.com/fortmyersskatium

Four Freedoms Park Winter Camp
Cape Coral
Festive games, arts & crafts, and outdoor adventures.
flcapecoral.com

The post Winter Break Camps in Collier and Lee Counties appeared first on SWFL Family.

‘Tis the season for Southwest Florida children to make their Christmas lists and state their case on whether they’ve been naughty or nice this year.

Now through Nov. 28, boys and girls across Southwest Florida can write their letters to Santa at any Sunshine Ace Hardware store to be sent to the North Pole. Sunshine Ace Hardware has a designated mailbox at each retail location for letters bound for Santa’s home.

“Through our Letters to Santa program, we’ll be sending messages directly to Santa’s home at the North Pole, and he has promised that he’ll respond to every letter,” said Sunshine Ace Hardware President Michael Wynn. “Santa is already getting busy, but he still has time to look through each letter and decide who’s been naughty or nice and pick out special gifts for a magical Christmas morning.”

Parents can bring their children to the following stores during regular business hours to write and send Letters to Santa:

Collier County

• Downtown Naples (141 Tamiami Trail North)
• East Naples (4433 Tamiami Trail East)
• Marco Island (1720 San Marco Road)
• Golden Gate (11673 Collier Blvd.)
• North Naples (8850 Founders Square Drive)
• Ave Maria (5630 Ave Maria Blvd.)
• Winchester Center (13855 Winchester Trail)
• Pelican Bay (8813 Tamiami Trail North)

Lee County

• Bonita Springs (9100 Bonita Beach Road)
• San Carlos Park (18911 Tamiami Trail South)

Cookies with Santa

Sunshine Ace Hardware will also host Cookies with Santa at select locations. Children can enjoy cookies and take photos with Santa from 9 to 11 a.m. at the following locations:

• Nov. 28 at 9100 Bonita Beach Road in Bonita Springs
• Nov. 29 at 8850 Founders Square Drive in North Naples
• Dec. 6 at 18911 Tamiami Trail South in San Carlos Park
• Dec. 13 at 5630 Ave Maria Blvd. in Ave Maria
• Dec. 20 at 8813 Tamiami Trail North in North Naples (Pelican Bay)

The post Sunshine Ace’s Letters to Santa and Cookies with Santa Programs Open in Southwest Florida Through November 28 appeared first on SWFL Family.

Tell us about your family and your background.

Michael Shapiro: My wife and I grew up in Boca Raton, and we lived 5 miles away from each other when we were growing up. When I was in my 30s, I developed a passion for cooking and food. I decided to take a leap of faith – I left a comfortable job, and I gave it my everything to make it into the restaurant industry as a prep cook. An Italian restaurant hired me, and everyone there made a bet that I wouldn’t last three weeks. I worked at that restaurant for ten months before learning of a new Benihana Japanese Steakhouse opening a few miles away from my house. I applied and was hired on the spot for a position as a hibachi chef. 

Describe your journey as a dad and its intersection with Rad Dad Hibachi. 

During my time at Benihana, I worked 60 hours a week. When my son was born, I cut back to 14 hours a week and essentially became a stay-at-home dad. My wife continued working as an air traffic controller, and we eventually decided to move to Ave Maria. I knew work was likely going to be scarce and difficult. We bought a flat top grill and discussed how I could possibly make money on the side by cooking fried rice for the builders. We started dreaming about how I could offer the complete hibachi experience at people’s homes, and that is how Rad Dad was born.  

What makes Rad Dad unique in the catering space?

I bring the complete hibachi experience to the comfort of people’s homes. When the pandemic started, people hesitated to go out to dinner and controlled, in-home dining experiences became even more popular. As a dad of two toddlers, I understand the struggle of going out to dinner with small children. I saw the opportunity in the marketplace of having a chef come to the comfort of families’ homes at an affordable, accessible price point.

How do you envision the future of Rad Dad Hibachi?

I want it to keep growing and expanding; I just want it to be successful. I originally viewed Rad Dad as a side project. To see how far it has come – to see my full calendar and the amount of clients I have – is such an amazing feeling. 

What are some specific ways you balance your life as a dad with the demands of Rad Dad?

My kids and family have always been my number one priority, and my family has always come first. I’ve been a stay-at-home dad for over four years now. My kids demand so much from me; parenting is a nonstop job. Bedtime is a moving target, so I usually get into a business mindset at some point between 8 and 10 p.m. – this is when I help my company grow, when I spend time building and perfecting it. It’s hard. I’m exhausted and burned out at times. I spend lots of time in the kitchen prepping for events. The food is the most important part of any dinner event, but I’m constantly in a mindset of how to prepare myself for the entertainment part of my job as well. Even if I provide an excellent meal, I’m nothing more than just a typical cook in a commercial kitchen without the entertainment hibachi meals offer. As I prepare for each individual party and balance the demands of being a dad and a husband, I try to always have a full charge ready for any moment.

In short, I have a system that I try to stick to with my family in order to accomplish what’s necessary for Rad Dad to work. It can be hard and exhausting at times, but the reward is greater than the challenges at any given moment. 

What do you love most about Rad Dad Hibachi?

The thing I love most about my business is that it’s mine. My wife and I had the idea and created it together. There’s not one thing I don’t love about it, I have a profound passion for food, for cooking, and for serving others. As corny as it sounds, I like to make people happy with my food. 

Tell us about your ideal Father’s Day.

I just want to spend the day without my kids – haha! I know other fathers of really young kids can relate! I love the ocean, and I love scuba diving, and I love any chance to get out on the water. My ideal day also includes cooking dinner at home. 

Speaking of dinner at home, what’s your family’s favorite meal?

My wife and kids love pot roast along with braised vegetables and egg noodles. My wife always seems to be asking for fried rice.

Flat top hibachi-style grills are gaining popularity around the country. What guidance would you give to people looking to improve their skills?

It’s so important to season your food properly, or else it’s just bland with no flavor profile. To be great, food has to have lots of flavor.  

What advice would you give to other dads starting their own businesses?

Just go for it! If you can fail at something you don’t love, why not take risks with things you do love? My journey into the culinary world started by watching Gordon Ramsay and YouTube videos on how to do the most basic things. I started with nothing, learned from YouTube, and now, eight years later, I’m running a successful hibachi catering business. I’ve failed along the way, but I embrace my failures and use the emotions surrounding failures to push forward.  

Is it challenging to enter into people’s homes in such an intimate, personal way?

I cooked at a party a few weeks ago, and the host commented on the deeply personal nature of going into strangers’ homes and both cooking for and entertaining them. I’m an extrovert at heart, and after so much experience as a hibachi chef, it has become easy to engage with strangers in a fun and inviting way. I still get butterflies occasionally.  But, I’ve also had a lot of fun and a lot of laughs – all thanks to every single client who has booked Rad Dad Hibachi!  Without them, Rad Dad Hibachi wouldn’t be what it is today; I am so grateful.

Visit www.raddadhibachi.com. 

The post Neapolitan Family Rad Dads: Meet the original Rad Dad Michael Shapiro! appeared first on SWFL Family.

Child Care of Southwest Florida provides early learning education to more than 350 children across Lee and Hendry counties. The organization accepts children ages 6 weeks through 8 years old, including students enrolled in Florida’s Volunteer Prekindergarten (VPK) program. VPK is a state-funded, high-quality early childhood education program that helps students develop a strong academic, social and behavioral foundation prior to entering school.

“The summer and spring terms are crucial for 4- and 5-year-olds who will be entering kindergarten next fall,” said Chris Hansen, CEO of Child Care of Southwest Florida. “Our centers provide children a safe, nurturing environment to foster development and success in their future learning. VPK can ensure students start school on the right foot, and there is still space available at three of our high-quality learning centers.”

Nutritious meals and snacks are included at no additional charge through Child Care of Southwest Florida’s participation in the USDA’s Child Food Care Program. The three locations accepting new student registrations include:

• P.A. Geraci Child Development Center (3713 Canal St. in Fort Myers): 239-337-4995
• The Children’s Learning Center (37 Barkley Circle in Fort Myers): 239-267-1136
• Joseph H. Messina Children’s Center (4650 Fowler St. in Fort Myers): 239-278-1148

Child Care of Southwest Florida follows the nationally recognized, research-based Creative Curriculum for preschool, which builds a safe, supportive learning environment that develops young minds, strengthens the community and secures the future. Each early learning center is accredited through the National Accreditation Commission for Early Learning Leaders and is a Gold Seal Quality Care Program through the Florida Department of Children and Families. Additionally, centers maintain five-star ratings through the Early Learning Coalition of Southwest Florida.

For more information or to register a child, please visit ccswfl.org.

About Child Care of Southwest Florida

Child Care of Southwest Florida, Inc. (CCSWFL) is a nonprofit early childhood education provider with five learning centers in Lee and Hendry counties that serve more than 350 children from 6 weeks to 8 years old. Each center is accredited through the National Accreditation Commission for Early Learning Leaders and is recognized as a Gold Seal Quality Care Program through the Florida Department of Children and Families. All five CCSWFL locations have five-star ratings through the Early Learning Coalition of Southwest Florida. CCSWFL follows the nationally recognized, research-based Creative Curriculum, with a goal of creating safe, nurturing learning environments that develop young minds, support families, strengthen the community and secure the future. Through its participation in the USDA’s Child Food Care Program, each child has access to a healthy, nutritious breakfast, lunch and snacks. Sponsor, volunteer and donation opportunities are available. For more information, please visit ccswfl.org.

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Please check before you go, as beach hours and guidelines have been changing rapidly these past few weeks. If you are new to Naples, make sure to get your Collier County or City of Naples beach parking sticker, which allows you to park for free. If you live in the City of Naples, go to Naples City Hall, Finance Department, 735 8th St. S. Collier County resident beach permits may be obtained from any Collier County park or library (when open). For more information: Collier County beaches, call 239-252-4000; City of Naples beaches, 239-213-1800; and for Lee County beaches, call 239-472-6397.

RR: Restrooms P: Parking  FB: Food and Beverage nearby

Collier County

1. Vanderbilt Beach, 100 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples

While this is one of the most popular beaches in Collier County because of plentiful parking and amenities, an empty stretch of sand usually can be found by walking a few hundred yards up the beach. RR/P/FB

2. Clam Pass Beach, 465 Seagate Dr., Naples

To access the beach, either board a free tram or stroll the 3/4-mile boardwalk from the parking lot to the beach. Clam Pass boasts a restaurant as well as a bar and water craft rentals. RR/P/FB

3. Barefoot Beach Preserve, 505 Barefoot Beach Blvd., Naples

With a learning center and nature trail in addition to its beautiful beaches, Barefoot Beach is the perfect spot to explore nature. RR/P/FB

4. Seagate Beach (officially known as North Gulfshore Beach Access), North Gulfshore Blvd., Naples

While the small parking lot off Seagate Drive means it can be difficult to find a spot for your car, this also makes for a peaceful spot. Metered parking also is available on North Gulfshore Blvd., north of Venetian Village.  P

5. Bluebill Beach Access, 11129 Park Dr., Naples

Although this beach at the north end of Naples Park does not offer parking, Conner Park provides off-site parking a few blocks away. FB

6. Keewaydin Island

Located north of Marco Island in the Rookery Bay reserve, this barrier island – with eight miles of white sand beaches – is accessible only by water (water taxi service available). 

7. Tigertail Beach, 430 Hernando Dr., Marco Island

Ideal for families, with tidal pools to explore, boardwalks, a playground, and even a butterfly garden. RR/P/FB

8. South Marco Beach, 930 South Collier Blvd., Marco Island

The only other public beach access point on Marco, it is less busy than Tigertail. Parking and restrooms are located on Swallow Avenue, across South Collier Boulevard.

City of Naples

9. Lowdermilk Park, 1301 Gulfshore Blvd. N., Naples

Lowdermilk is popular with families, as it offers easy access to the beach from the parking lot, two playgrounds, sand volleyball courts, picnic tables, and two gazebos for rent. RR/P/FB

10. Naples Pier, 25 12th Ave. S., Naples

A popular tourist destination, the pier is also a favorite among residents for fishing and sunset. RR/P/FB

11. Port Royal Public Beach, 32nd Ave. S., Naples

You don’t have to live in Port Royal to enjoy this peaceful beach. The pilings and rocks make it a popular location for beach portraits. (Pictured in top photo)  P

12. Vedado Beach, Vedado Way, Naples

Tucked away in The Moorings off Gulf Shore Boulevard, this often is a quiet spot to enjoy the beach. P

13. Horizon Way Beach, 3951 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples

Like Vedado, limited parking means this beach is less busy. P

14. Via Miramar Beach, 2700 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples 

A quiet beach just north of Doctor’s Pass. P

State Parks

15. Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, 1135 Gulf Shore Dr., Naples

This state park is not part of the county beach system, so you will pay a fee to enter, which gives you access to a mile of unspoiled sand. RR/P/FB

16. Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach

Nature trails, paddle craft rentals, a playground, plus a slew of other amenities make Lovers Key well worth the entrance fee. RR/P/FB

Lee County

17. Bonita Beach Park, 27954 Hickory Blvd., Bonita Springs

Close proximity to Doc’s Beach House restaurant makes this a popular beach. Note that Lee County stickers are not accepted here.

18. Bowman’s Beach Park, 1700 Bowman’s Beach Rd., Sanibel Island

Known for great shelling, the beach is a five-minute walk from the parking lot. RR/P

19. Causeway Islands, 19931 Sanibel Causeway Rd., Sanibel Island

The two islands created during the building of the road that links Sanibel Island to the mainland have become a hub of outdoor activities, from fishing, swimming, and picnicking to paddle boarding, wind surfing, and kite boarding. RR/P

20. Crescent Beach Family Park, 1100 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach

This public park on the water has sand volleyball courts and covered picnic tables, and is close to restaurants. RR/P

The post Back to the Beach! The Top 20 Beaches in Southwest Florida appeared first on SWFL Family.