Children’s Program

ACQUAMARINE PROGRAM

In keeping with the resort’s water theme, Acqualina has created a unique marine biology-based children’s program designed especially for children ages 5 to 12 years old. The program is offered exclusively to Acqualina’s guests, residents and Beach Club members.

Hours of Operation

Wednesday-Sunday
Half-day Program: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Full-day Program: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Daily Rate
Half-day pass - $35; Full-day pass - $55

24-hour cancellation is required for the children’s program to avoid a cancellation fee. Reservations must be cancelled by 10 a.m. the day prior to attendance.

Sample program components include:

Acqua Patrol
Children will enjoy an adventure in sea service as they explore the world of the Coast Guard. Activities will include a beach relay, kayak rescue missions, cooperative games such as build a boat and many other missions of fun.

Junior Guards
Young residents and guests will have the opportunity to experience what it takes to be a lifeguard. We will simulate a rescue in the pool and children will have the opportunity to design their own lifesaver. Children will also learn how to paddle and compete in our First Aid Olympics.

Whimsical Waves
Get ready to discover the wonderful world of waves. We will take a look at their anatomy and investigate the effects they have on our environment from a small swell to the Tsunami. Children will also learn how waves are created and how much fun waves can be when they learn how to skim board and body surf. Each child will make their own wave to take home with our “Making Waves” project.

City Under the Sea
The mysterious underwater city known as the reef will be the topic of this theme. Children will learn about the creatures that make the reef their home. We will focus on the importance and value of a coral reef ecosystem and discuss how we can help protect them. Children will recreate their vision of a reef with our unique art projects.

Stranded Along the Coast
Children will enjoy sand explorations where they will learn how sand is made and conduct experiments with various types of sand found along different areas of the beach. Children will also take part in a sand castle contest, a beach obstacle course and cooperative games such as Bucket Brigade.

Wonderful World of Whales
From the Humpback to the Beluga, we will take a look at these amazing sea mammals. We will explore the different types of whales and learn about the characteristics that make them unique. Children will participate in a science experiment that demonstrates the importance of whale blubber. We will also learn how whales communicate with echolocation and create our very own whale songs. The day will close with the Whale of a Scavenger Hunt, where kids will use clues to find different types of whales.

Sharks & Rays
Children will go on a group exploration, “Is it a shark or is it a ray?” Children will participate in cooperative games such as Sharks & Minnows and Shark Tooth Hunt and will enjoy a Shark Trivia game.

OTHER ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN & YOUNG ADULTS AT ACQUALINA

Children’s Center
Acqualina offers a 500-square-foot well-equipped and supervised AcquaMarine-themed center which features a computer/technology area, arts & crafts center, toys, microscopes, movies and video games. The center is open to children enrolled in the AcquaMarine Program.

Dinner and a Movie
Acqualina offers a popcorn, dinner and movie program in the privacy of your junior guest’s room or suite.

Kid’s Night Out
Dinner, games and a movie. We begin in the AcquaMarine room, playing games and eating dinner. Afterwards, the children go up to the Library to watch a movie. Parents pick up their children in this room. Saturdays from 7-10:30 p.m.; $45

Arts & Crafts
3-4 p.m.; $10 if not enrolled in the full day program

Private Lessons
Swim and sports. Call to set up date, time and price.

Holidays & Special Happenings
During select times of the year, Acqualina offers a turtle hatching expedition for the whole family as well as multi-generational events for grandparents, parents and children. In addition, during holiday periods other special activities such as outdoor games and scrap-booking are organized.

Manicures & Pedicures
Children of all ages are welcomed at the Hair Salon for manicures and pedicures as well as other services.

STAFF

Shelley Erasmus, M.S., Program Director
Shelley earned her bachelor’s degree from Florida State University in Nutrition & Fitness. She conducted research while attending the university and worked in the Leach Fitness Center as a personal trainer and aerobics instructor. She went on to receive her master’s degree from Florida Atlantic University in Exercise Science & Wellness Education. After graduation, she taught at a health and wellness magnet school in Hollywood, Florida. She used her knowledge with the help of technology to educate students on the importance of good nutrition and fitness to enhance quality and quantity of life. She has presented her innovative curriculum and ideas at various fitness and health conferences throughout the United States. She is currently a certified teacher with the state of Florida and has a certification with the American College of Sports Medicine. As the Program Director for Miami Fitness Connection, she has developed unique children’s programs throughout Dade County which include various athletic programs, camps and after-school programs.