More Choices for Your Child’s Summer Camp

Importance, availability and affordability of summer options increasing in Miami-Dade

Summer camp has long been a very American tradition. Exploring the outdoors, making lifelong friends and roasting s’mores are what many parents associate with summer camp. And while many of those experience continue to be part of summer camp lore, today’s summer camps are more abundant, accessible and diverse than ever, especially in Miami-Dade County. 

For one thing, day summer camps are a lot more popular than in decades past. While sleepover camps are still popular among some segments, the cost is spiking on what was already an expensive option for most parents. Luckily, day summer camp options have become more practical, affordable and even necessary for working parents. 

Support Teens to Get License on Road to Self-Reliance

Less teen drivers on the road delaying independence

By Priscilla Greear

An increasing number of teens are postponing getting their driver’s license at 16, opting rather to catch an Uber or a ride with parents while looking at their smartphone. Going out is not as urgent with virtual connection at their fingertips, and Miami's infamous road rage isn't exactly added encouragement to the anxious.

Yet driving is truly a life skill and key to safety, independence and personal achievement, and the teen years are an ideal time to learn while under family supervision. So gently encourage nimble-minded youth to take that next step and get a learner's permit.

Walk This Way Safely

When kids are on the streets, safety must take priority

Written by Gabriella Llano, M.D., M.P.H. candidate, with Julie Belkowitz, M.D., M.P.H., Lyse Deus, Me.D., Oneith Cadiz, M.D., injuryfreemiami.org

Schooltime means getting to school safely, whether on foot, on the bus, or in the family car. It’s great to see children get outside to run, walk, or play, but it’s essential to ensure pedestrian safety.

Children are at increased risk for injury and death because navigating safely around traffic may be beyond their thinking, development, behavioral, and physical abilities. Older kids can be at higher risk while texting, using social media, wearing headphones, or taking a phone call. Most injuries occur from the hours of 3 to 7 p.m. Other risks include areas with increased traffic where the speed limit is higher, places that lack sidewalks or crosswalks, driveways, and in residential areas.

Champions for Children Programs of the Year Highlight Early Learning, Summer and Health Services

Breakthrough Miami, Early Learning Coalition and Jessie Trice Health Systems honored

Every year, Children’s Trust Champions for Children Awards Ceremony highlights three Trust-funded programs that have stood apart from others because of their excellent services to children and families. This year’s three honorees have demonstrated exemplary service through the delivery of quality programming for children.

Book of the Month: Hear and See The Forest Through the Trees in Kallie George’s Book

The Children’s Trust Book Club offers age-appropriate free, monthly books by mail for children from 0-5 living in Miami-Dade.