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Contents March 2016
10
features
9
10 12 14 16
20 24 28
12
28
20
Summer Camp Guide Family Camp Gardening Science with Kids Summer Camp Listings Planning for Spring Break
kids in the kitchen 22
Seven Questions Parent Should Ask When Choosing a Summer Camp
Eating Treats & Fun Activities for St. Patrick’s Day
every issue
Growing a Green Kid
26
Books for Women’s History Month
March Calendar of Events
Coming Up... April 2016
May 2016
Home & Garden Issue Family Travel Special Needs Awareness Summer Planning
The Mom Issue! Top Teachers, Pets Week Directories: Vets, Pet Grooming Teachers Day Spotlight
4 • March 2016 / www.stjohnsparentparent.com
www.StJohnsParent.com (386) 437-0300
Reader Services Calendar Submissions: We publish information about family events within and surrounding our county. We would love to hear from you! If you have a family event, fundraiser or childrens activity/program please send your information to editor@bradymediainc.com Deadline for submitting information is approximately one month prior to the month in which the event will occur.
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Feedback: We Welcome Your Feedback & Thoughts. In our continuous effort to improve our publications, we look forward to your thoughts, questions and feedback on how we can better tailor information to your families needs. Please feel free to send me an email at Charlie@bradymediainc.com
www.stjohnsparent.com / March 2016 • 5
with
What’s New in Print & Online
St. Johns Parent
Camp Directors...
It’s not too early to start promoting your Spring & Summer Camps!
New In Schools, On Newsstands & Online
The Camp Fair & Summer Vacation Expo showcases places that build life-long memories for children! Volusia & Flagler County parents will find it much easier and faster to choose a summer camp for their children at the only expo of its kind in the area. The 2016 Camp Fair & Summer Vacation Expo provides busy parents with a one-stop resource for information regarding available daily activities, cost, and much more, with a variety of summer conveniences assembled under one roof. The expo features demonstrations all day long by karate classes, the police department, the fire department, and much more. This year’s Camp Fair and Summer Vacation Expo will be held at The Pavilion at Port Orange on March 12th from 10am - 2pm. Check our website for further details.
Special Child A quarterly magazine dedicated to special needs families and care-givers. Parents and caregivers of children with special needs often face a whole different situation and set of challenges and joys. They require more resources, education and support. Special Child Magazine is a resource dedicated to providing just that. Filled with educational articles, local resources, easy-to-use directories, product reviews, shopping guides and much more. Special Child Magazine does the research and provides the resources available in our area for special families. Special Child Magazine will give you all the tools you need to be informed and proactively parent and care for your special child, Our expert advices helps you make the best decisions that are right for your family. Inside you’ll find: product reviews; local resources; ask an expert; recopies’ DIY decor ideas and much, much more!
Attrention Business Owners: We need your support to make this publication possible! If you are interested in participating in the launch of this exciting new project, call us today to reserve your ad space. Introductory offers available.
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Business Spotlight
Brady Media, Inc., publishers of Volusia, Flagler, & St. Johns Parent Magazine has announced the formation of its foundation, ‘The Parent Magazine Foundation. Inc.’ “As a parent with an elementary school age child, I understand the many unique needs that we parents face today in the education of our children. It’s not our intention to take anything from the all of the amazing local resources that we currently have available to us in our communities, but it is our hope and intention to offer some very unique resources for parents when it comes to making decisions regarding their children’s education”, says Charlene Michaux, the owner and founder of the Parent Magazine Foundation. The Parent Magazine Foundation describes their mission statement thusly: “Through education and advocacy, The Parent Magazine Foundation, Inc. will bring parents the best information and resources available to assist them in tackling the most important job in the world – PARENTING”. It will be the hope and intention of the foundation to host local events to educate parents on the needs they face in the education of their children. In addition, the foundation will sponsor other events in our communities to advocate their support in the areas of academics, arts and athletics. The foundation plans to fund innovative programs that offer unique depth and breadth to our children’s educational experience. As we work to build a sustainable endowment, we pledge to award grants annually out of our available funds to students and their parents so that parents can be educated in all areas of their children’s academic future. The Foundation was established as a notfor-profit corporation under the laws of the State of Florida and received its IRS classification as a 501 (c)3 charitable organization. Board representation will include individuals from the public and private sector whose interest is specific to its mission statement. Founder Charlene Michaux
“Through education and advocacy, The Parent Magazine Foundation, Inc. will bring parents the best information and resources available to assist them in tackling the most important job in the world – PARENTING”
serves as the current Founder and President. Deb Wind is on the board of trustees as secretary. The Parent Magazine Foundation is currently seeking active local business professionals who have an interest in advocating its mission to complete its board of trustees. The Foundation plans to have a gala kick off membership drive to educate our community on the important issues affecting
the decisions that parents. Your membership is tax deductible.
INFO
For information on the levels of membership or to make a donation please call our office at (386) 437-0300 or visit our website at www.parentmagazinefoundation.org. www.stjohnsparent.com / March 2016 • 7
Parent to Parent Publisher / Editor Charlene Michaux charlie@bradymediainc.com 386-547-0161
Mom, and Brady Charlene Michaux Publisher/Editor charlie@bradymediainc.com
Capture that Springtime Optimism When I think of spring, I think of cleaning out the clutter, and starting the garden. This is a time for blossoming and for renewal. If we change our mindset so that the cleaning and gardening are thought of as blossoming and renewal, it empowers us to know that our cleaning and gardening are forms of our own personal and professional renewal. Isn’t that empowering? Spring has always been considered as a time for change and personal evolution, and another common way to embrace the sense of optimism and enthusiasm is to have a good old clear-out. Spring cleaning has a very valuable function, psychologists believe. We de-clutter, out with the old, and in with the new. It’s the perfect time of year to seek out new objects that wipe out the remnants of winter and boost your mood for the new season. So grab the duster and the vacuum cleaner, and make a list too, so you are more efficient. Then afterwards when you’re all done, you can look back and say “I really got a lot done today”. That sense of accomplishment will boost your empowerment! Whether you are a career woman, a mom taking care of her family or a woman doing some combination of both, spring is the time for change. Renewal could refer to something as drastic as a career move or it could just mean picking up that hobby that you felt you had to leave behind. Ask yourself: what you are passionate about in life. Spring is the time to ensure that ten years from now you do not look back at your choices and wish you had followed your passions. Now is the time. Pick up that old guitar or camera. Volunteer for a cause that you are passionate about. Remind yourself about what you want your life to be about and make it happen…now. We are celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with a great article on how to create your own good luck along with some great kid friendly recipes like Shamrock Snack and Leprechaun Munch. In keeping with the green theme, you’ll find 7 ways to encourage healthy, environmentally friendly habits for the kids in our ‘Going Green’ article. As the days grow longer and warmer, we can choose to capture that sense of freshness and renewal in order it can be remembered, savored and built on throughout the year with optimism.
Charlie
Advertising/Sales Melissa Chipps melissa@bradymediainc.com 386-569-5188 Social Media Management Marketing 2 Go www.marketing2go.biz Contributing Writers Christina Katz Cindy Hudson Lara Krupicka Sue LeBreton Carol J. Alexander Tiffany Doerr Guerzon Alexa Bigwarfe
Flagler Parent, Volusia Parent, and St. Johns Parent Magazines are published by Brady Media, Inc. and are copyrighted 2008. Brady Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission from Brady Media, Inc. is prohibited. Flagler Parent and Volusia Parent reserve the right to reject advertisements or listings that are not in keeping with the publication’s satndard. Submissions are welcome, but the publisher assumes no responsibility for the return of unsolicited materials. Flagler Parent and Volusia Parent do not endorse or assume responsibility for information, products, services or statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The Flagler County or Volusia County School Boards are not affiliated with these publications in any manner, nor do they endorse ro assume any responsibility for any of the information or advertisements contained in therein.
Brady Media, Inc. 515 Palm Coast Pkwy., SW, Ste. 5 Palm Coast, FL 32137 (386) 437-0300 Office (386) 246-2950 Fax www.BradyMediaInc.com Proud Member of
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March 2016 • 9
feature
Family Camp
This Summer, Don’t Just Send Your Kids To Camp...Tag Along by Sue LeBreton
When making your summer plans and coordinating camp options for the kids, broaden your thinking and consider family camp. If you have never heard of family camp, it is exactly what it sounds like a residential camp experience for the whole family, wake up bell included. Why should kids have all the fun? Usually family camp is a cost effective way for all of you to enjoy the outdoors and have the luxury of someone else preplanning the myriad of activities and often the meals as well. When meal planning is removed from vacation you can enjoy activities without having that what’s for dinner question buzzing in the background of your brain all afternoon. Kelly Knuckle, who has attended family camp for 31 of her 41 summers, speaks fondly of the meal plan, “My boys were ages four and two when I first attended as a mom and I loved the communal meal plan. It was a
busy, happy environment where we could enjoy a meal that I didn’t have to cook and my children could be as loud and crazy as they wanted to be, but nobody noticed.” You don’t have to be a veteran camper like Knuckle to embrace the family camp experience. First-time camper, Keri Freeman-Copcutt, mother of a 12-year-old son and a nine-year-old daughter was impressed with her week at a family camp. “We have stayed at many five star resorts who would kill to have their staff as engaged and as motivated as the staff is at YMCA Wanakita.” Her family echoed her sentiments. “Our kids loved their time at family camp so much that they both mentioned it as their yearly highlight on our Christmas video.” At family camp you can surround yourself with extended family in a relaxed manner. Imagine sharing time with your siblings, their children,
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cousins, friends and maybe even grandparents without coordinating activities or food. Anne deSoto has enjoyed multiple trips to family camp, first as a mom and now as a grandma. “What appealed at first and still does, is that it is an example of simple, shared living and all the values implied in that. It was a great way to introduce my children to the camping experience that has greatly enriched their lives.” When her youngest son was married, deSoto suggested family camp to the grandchildren and extended family that travelled across the country to attend the ceremony. “It became an annual family reunion and offered the best bang for our buck.” This style of vacation offers a balance between full-time engaged parenting and a parental getaway. There are often activities that parents and children can participate in separately, providing parents with some free time
while building children’s independence. Usually located in a natural setting, camp offers a level of freedom that is a lacking in many children’s lives. Since the routine of camp life is similar from camp to camp, it is also great preparation for children who want to attend camp solo in the future. Not to worry, there are also sports and crafts to enjoy jointly for family bonding opportunities. Depending upon the geography where you live or choose to vacation, family camps have a wide variety of activities such as: horseback riding, canoeing, rock climbing, swimming, hiking, boating, crafting, nature education, yoga and dancing. FreemanCopcutt sampled many options, “Personally I loved starting the day with the Polar Bear Dip, although I complained each morning about why my son had signed us up for this. I
followed this with yoga by the water after breakfast. I also had the opportunity to learn to swing dance with my so at family camp and do T-shirts with my daughter.” At the end of the day each family retires to their own sleeping quarters (these can vary from tents to cabins to hotel-style rooms depending upon the camp). This offers each family some alone time to reconnect and balance the potentially busy day. This privacy also permits the opportunity for smaller children to keep to their regular schedule.
For families who return year after year, campers create lifelong friendships. “My favorite part of family camp by far is the camaraderie and closeness we share with the other families at camp. We encourage each other and each other’s kids. We share laughs and hugs, bug spray and Band-Aids, successes and challenges,” says Knuckle. One of the challenges that some camps help families face is camping with a child who has special needs. Some camps provide trained counselors to help the child enjoy camp and offer respite to parents. If you are unsure about an entire week at family camp, many offer weekends as a great way to try on this style of vacation to see if it suits your family. Research family camps in your area, there should be a style to suit your taste. www.stjohnsparent.com /March 2016 • 11
feature ing root vegetables in a clear container. Clear Mason jars are perfect for this, but a clear vase or other containerworks just as well. First, fill the bottom of your container with pebbles, marbles or gravel to allow for drainage. Then, add potting soil. Plant any root vegetable seeds, several per jar. Try carrots, onions, radishes or turnips. Keep the soil moist and enjoy watching the root form. Best of all, when the vegetable is done growing, you can eat it!
Gardening Science with Kids
by Tiffany Doerr Guerzon
Spring is the perfect time to teach kids about how plants grow. Even if the ground outside is still frozen, there are fun things you can grow inside. Try one or more of these fun gardening experiments for fun and learning! Beans in CD cases: Recycle a clear CD jewel case to grow beans and teach kids about the parts of the plant. With the empty case hinge side up, add some potting soil, filling about one-third of the case. “Plant” a bean concave side down (like the letter “n”) on top of the soil and let the kids water with a dropper by adding drops of water into the hole at the top of the CD case. Stand the “planter” upright in a sunny window and kids will be able to clearly see the roots reaching down into the soil as the plant grows out of the bean. Flower bulbs: Paper whites and daffodils are favorite early spring plants, and grow-
ing flowers from bulbs is a great science experiment. Use any seethrough container as a vessel, from plastic cup to a clear glass or vase. Add rocks or marbles to the bottom of your container and place the bulb on top, root side down. Fill with just enough water to cover the bottom of the bulb. Observe the bulb as it grows roots and eventually a flower! Bonus lesson: Cut open an extra bulb so that kids can see the inside of this plant powerhouse.
Colored Carnations or Celery: Fill a vase or glass with water and tint the water with food color. Place a white carnation or celery stalk inside and watch the plant become colorful as it “drinks” the tinted water. This is a great, short experiment to show how plants take in water. Root Vegetables: Ever wonder how root veggies form under the ground? You can see for yourself-- and show the kids-- by plant
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Grow a Carrot Top: This is a fun way to see a plant grow, but it will not produce an edible carrot. You can use an end of a carrot from your veggie scraps, or buy a whole carrot with the green fronds still attached for this experiment. Cut off the carrot near the plant end, leaving an inch or two of root. (Remember, the root is the edible part of the carrot, so you’ll want to cut your carrot near the wide end, leaving the part where the green leaves attach for growing.) Place several cotton balls on a plate or shallow dish and add water until the cotton is moist. Place the carrot top on the wet cotton, orange side down. Help the kids check and add water as needed. The green plant will sprout within a few days. Sunflowers: Sunflower seeds sprout and grow quickly, making this the perfect flower for impatient children. These seeds can be started just about anywhere, even in a Styrofoam coffee cup. Kids love seeing the plant push its way out of the soil, wearing the seed husk like a hat! Transplant your plant to a flower pot after sprouting to observe the flower as it forms. Grass basket: Grass is another seed that grows quickly. Make a living basket by lining a basket in plastic and filling with potting soil. Scatter grass seed on top and lightly mist with water daily. The kids will love using a spray bottle! This makes a perfect Easter table centerpiece filled with green, living grass and a couple of dyed eggs added for color! Try any of these inexpensive garden experiments for a fun project. Growing plants is a great way to sneak some learning—and a little sunshine—into your daily routine.
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Spring Break Camps
Summer Camps
Haven Horse Ranch This will be our 27th year of providing a fun-filled, quality camp for kids interested in horses, from beginners to advanced. Our camp programs are designed to safely have fun with horses and instill the value of lasting relationships and teamwork. March 21-25 Ages 7 – 16 years Cost: $255 for three day or $365 for a five day camp. 733 County Road 208, St. Augustine, FL 904-813-5710 www.havenhorsranch.org
St. John’s County Recreation and Parks Summer Camps The Recreation & Parks Department Summer Camps are for children ages 5*-12 (*only five year olds that have completed kindergarten and are entering first grade are eligible), and held at six locations in St. Johns County. Camps emphasize outdoor activities and are staffed by experienced, motivated leaders from within our community. Campers get to participate in a variety of activities including field trips, arts & crafts, and swimming. **Visit website for registration drawing dates and information** Summer Camp Dates & Hours Camp starts June 6 and ends July 22 Hours are Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Spring Break Camps Arts Camp The Cultural Center at Ponte Vedra Beach Come join us for a week or a day of fun and creativity! The Cultural Center at Ponte Vedra Beach presents the 11th Annual Spring Break Arts Camp for young artists of all skill levels. Children ages 4 to 8 are encouraged to express their imagination using real artist's materials and guidance from our talented and creative art instructors. Supplies and snack included, campers should bring a brown bag lunch. 9:00 a.m. -2:00 p.m. Ages 4-8 and 9-16 Daily Rate: Members: $40 - Non-members: $50 Early Registration Discounted Rate: Members: $36 - Non-members: $45 To register for a camp, click on the member or nonmember links. For more information, call Anna at 50 Executive Way, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 Phone: (904) 280-0614x204 Fax: (904) 280-0616 www.ccpvb.org Donovin Darius’ Spring Break Football Camps Fruit Cove Plantation Park, Fruit Cove, FL 904-290-3320 Camps@DonovinDarius.com www.DariusNextLevelTraining.com This Spring Break Football Camp Series is designed to give athletes of all ages and skill levels an opportunity to sharpen their skills during their specific spring break vacations from school. March 24th ~ 9:00am – 12:00pm Grades: Elementary, Middle School, High School Cornerstone Park - PonteVedra Age: 7 – 14 years $35 before March 1st & $49 After March 1st. Sibling Discount Experimenting with Art - Spring Break Art Camp St. Augustine 140 Gateway Circle, St Johns, Florida, 32259 904-287-8603 www.stjohns.kidzart.com Small creatures - BIG art! Join us this Spring Break at the KidzArt Studio for a mixed media camp all about bugs & nature. Your budding artist will explore many techniques to complete their individual portfolios of work using pastels, watercolors, collage and much more. Exciting projects that are sure to delight boys and girls alike. Please dress for a mess!
First Coast YMCA Spring Break Camp Ponte Vedra YMCA 904-543-9622 170 Landrum Lane Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 St. Augustine YMCA 500 Pope Rd. St. Augustine, FL 32080 904-471-9622 When school is out, camp is in at the Y. Join us during school holidays and Spring Break for fun games and activities that are sure to keep kids ages 5-12 having fun and learning along the way. They will have the opportunity to make new friends and engage in indoor and outdoor activities in a safe, positive environment. Dates, times and prices vary by location. Plus, you can sign up for any number of days. Both members and non-members are welcome to attend, so invite your friends! Spring Break Dates for St. Johns: March 21-25 Hours: 6:30am – 6:00pm Members: $130 – $140, Program Participants: $115 – $135 St. Augustine Alligator Farm Spring Camps March 21- 25 999 Anastasia Blvd., St. Augustine, FL 32080 904-824-3337 kgirven@alligatorfarm.com www.alligatorfarm.com Two Programs: Rumble in the Jungle 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m Ages: K -5th Wild Wonders 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m Ages: 2nd-5th A camp T-shirt is included in each weeklong camp session. Weekly Cost: $130 for members, $150 for nonmembers
Our studio camps are 9am-1pm! Please pack a peanut-free snack and/or bag lunch and refreshment for your child. Each camper receives one free camp t-shirt with each week of registration - order as many extras as you want at checkout! March 21-25 Hours: 9am-1pm Age: 5-10 $185.00 14 • March 2016 / www.stjohnsparentparent.com
2016 Camp Fees, Camp Rate: $410 per child; $59 per week Reduced Rate: $305 per child; $44 per week. To receive the reduced rate you must qualify for Reduced Lunch with the St. Johns County School Board, you will be required to submit your paper work with your registration forms to receive the discounted rate per child. Free Rate: $205 per child; $30 per week. (Must qualify.) To receive the free rate you must qualify for Free Lunch with the St. Johns County School Board, you will be required to submit your paper work with your registration forms to receive the discounted rate per child. 2016 Camp LocationsContact site directly to register (904) 692-3655 Davis Park Field House 210 Davis Park Road, Ponte Vedra Ketterlinus Gym 60 Orange Street, St. Augustine Plantation Park 3060 Racetrack Road, St. Johns Solomon Calhoun Center 1300 Duval Street, St. Augustine Trout Creek 6795 Collier Road, Mill Creek W.E. Harris Community Center 400 East Harris Street, Hastings
Academic Camps Club Scientific: Specialty Camp Camp Young Scientist Cost: Full Day - $275/week, Half-Day - $185/week This unique camp will offer an incredible collection of projects and experiments that will amuse and amaze your little scientist! By being involved with several hands-on activities your child will explore the basic scientific ideas that play a role in everyday life.
Academic Camps
Art / Dance / Theater Camps
Outdoor Adventure Camps
Club Scientific http://www.stjohns.clubscientific.com/ Locations: San Juan del Rio Catholic School (Fruit Cove) – 1714 State Rd. 13 St Johns, FL 32259 5-day camps operate Monday - Friday from 9am - 4pm Camps start at $275.00 per week. Pre-camp and post-camp hours are available for an additional fee. The Lab Fee of an additional $35.00 applies to: Camp Jr. Robot Inventor(ages 6-8) Camp Robot Inventor (ages 9-12) Camp Chef Scientific (ages 9-12)
KidzArt Camps San Juan del Rio Catholic School (Fruit Cove) 1714 State Road 13, St Johns, FL 32259 Offering full day camps in June and July for ages 59, 9am-4pm. Extended pre-camp and post-camp options available.
Stay 'N Connected, Inc. is co-located at Stay 'N Country Ranch Special Needs Summer Camps Includes: Petting Zoo (miniature horses, dwarf goats, mini potbelly pigs, juliana pigs, chickens, turkeys, donkey’s, and a rabbit), Farm Play Activities including Sensory Bin, Tractor Pulled Wagon Ride, Horse Swing Ride, Arts/Crafts
Club Scientific: Specialty Camp Camp Young Chemist Cost: Full Day - $275/week, Half-Day - $185/week It is time for Glues, Brews and Goos! From our stock pile of hundreds of recipes and formulas, we have chosen our top favorite chemistry activities. Campers will love exploring and examining the results of these crazy chemical concoctions! Campers will also realize the importance of measurement and sequencing, especially as they create some edible experiments! These exciting experiments are sure to delight and spark the science minds of our youngest little campers, ages 4 and 5. Club Scientific: Specialty Camp Camp Young Paleontologist Cost: Full Day - $275/week, Half-Day - $185/week Camp Young Paleontologist will get your child excited about dinosaurs, fossils, and more! Activities and experiments explore the prehistoric era. During each activity branches of science and noteworthy scientists are introduced. These exciting experiments are sure to delight and spark the science minds of our youngest little campers, ages 4 and 5.
Beach Bash June 20th -24th Monday – Friday 9am – 4pm $275 Cartooning and Animation June 27th – July 1st Monday – Friday 9am – 4pm $275 Wet Paint July 11th – 15th, 2016 Monday – Friday 9am – 4pm $275 Clay Adventure July 25th -29th, 2016 Monday – Friday 9am – 4pm $275 KidzArt Studio 9am – 1pm 140 Gateway Circle #3, St Johns FL 32259 Offering half day camps in June and July for ages 5-9. Cartooning and Animation June 20th -24th Monday – Friday 9am – 1pm $185 Beach Bash June 27th – July 1st Monday – Friday 9am – 1pm $185 Clay Adventure July 11th – 15th Monday – Friday 9am – 1pm $185 Wet Paint July 25th -29th Monday – Friday 9am – 1pm $185
Outdoor Adventure Camps Club Scientific: Specialty Camp Camp Little Builder Cost: Full Day - $275/week, Half-Day - $185/week Campers ages 4-5 will want to join us to learn exciting construction techniques using LEGO® bricks. Young Builder allows campers to take their first steps into science and technology. By using the themes of construction and travel, campers learn about machines, the tools used to work on machines, and their functions. Our material packs include a wide range of bricks and special elements in various shapes, sizes, and colors that are ideal for stimulating children’s creative and imaginative skills. Camp counselors will introduce tasks each day in building vehicles, planes, buildings, towns and transportation systems. Campers receive lots of suggestions for ideas but are encouraged to use their own creativity and imagination. Parents are invited to join us on Friday’s Family Day to view their child’s creations.
Happy Acres Ranch (Preschool through 8th) 7117 Crane Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32216 http://www.happyacresranch.com/summer-camp/ New for 2016. Stay at camp all week! This is be our inaugural year as a resident camp. Want to know more information? Click the link: Join us this summer for resident camp! Starting at $165 We are an outdoor day camp located on ten acres of woodlands within the city limits of Jacksonville, FL. We offer a full range of traditional camp activities including, swimming lessons, archery, horseback riding, sports, recreation, arts and crafts, special events, nature, boating, environmental education and recreation. Nutritious meals and snacks and extended day are included at no extra charge. Campers may enroll in Summer Day Camp, Horsemanship Camp or Preschool Camp.
96125 Blackrock Road, Yulee, FL 32097 Contact Shelley Mitchell 904-755-6118 or staynconnectedinc@yahoo.com. http://www.staynconnectedinc.org/ Surf into Summer Surf Camps begins June 1st! 904-962-SURF • SurfIntoSummer@gmail.com http://www.surfintosummer.com/ This is Surf into Summer's 20th year teaching campers to master the waves, making it the longest running surf camp on the First Coast. We offer surf camps in both Jacksonville Beach and Ponte Vedra Beach. At Surf into Summer, campers will learn from the top surfers in North Florida. Campers will not only learn the basics of paddling and how to stand up on a board, but also important knowledge on beach and water safety from the CPR certified instructors. Surf into Summer is the only surf camp that provides a one teacher to three student ratio. This 1:3 teacher to student ratio provides safe, quality instruction, which guarantees your camper will be surfing by the second day! Open to girls and boys ages 7 and up Camp Times are 8:45 - 11:45 Price is $210 Tour Academy Junior Summer Golf Camp June 25th-28th 220 Ponte Vedra Park Dr., Suite 26 Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 877-611-1911 http://www.pgatourcamps.com TOUR Academy Junior Summer Golf Camps, held at more than 20 locations nationwide, are taught by leading industry teaching professionals, using the most effective teaching methodologies and the latest golf training equipment and technologies. Please call or visit for complete details. Cost: $995 Elite Camp St. Augustine Alligator Farm 999 Anastasia Blvd., St. Augustine, FL 32080 904-824-3337 www.alligatorfarm.com Kids spend a day at the zoo creating crafts, playing games, viewing animal presentations and shows, trekking through the zoo, talking with keepers and more. Our qualified educators guide groups of no larger than 12 students (per counselor) through an exciting, fun-filled adventure at The St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park. Summer Camp is open for students entering 1st through 6th grade. A camp T-shirt is included in each weeklong camp session. Weekly Cost: $130 for members, $150 for non-members
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feature
Planning a Spring Break That Doesn’t Break You Too often we hear the lament, “I need a vacation from my vacation.” And if that's true at any time of year, it’s certainly true at spring break. But given a little planning and an intentional shift in attitude, your vacation can be a break no matter where you go or what you do. Here are three goals you can focus on to take a break that doesn't break you: Relish family time With today's fast-paced lifestyles, what often gets shortchanged is focused family time. Enter spring break as a great opportunity to reconnect - whether at home or away. But beware: it's easy to get sucked into believing we should be doing activities or seeing sights and forget our companions. It's important to remember children don't need fantastic experiences or exciting locations to make memories.
What they'll remember is the time as a family. “I truly don't think you need to go to Africa, Europe or the Caribbean to make memories with your kids. To them, a vacation is about quality time with mom and dad -- it doesn't matter where you are,” says Kara Williams, co-owner of TheVacationGals.com. As you plan your family's spring break vacation this year, consider what you want family time to look like. Then plan accordingly. If family time means lounging around together or playing lots of board games or long conversations around the dinner table, structure your time and activities as much as you can to make those pursuits possible. And don't forget: family time can begin before the vacation itself. Kelly Merritt, author of The Everything
by Lara Krupicka
Family Guide to Budget Travel explains, “Travel involves research and planning, which families can do together. Vacation planning brings the family together and fosters anticipation.” Pace yourself Taking kids on a whirlwind tour of a theme park destination or other tourist spot may be tempting. After all, you want to get the best value for your dollar. But in reality, quality over quantity may bring you the most benefits long-term. Decide ahead of time whether it will be worth the energy and possible frayed nerves to try to see everything. And if high cost is pushing you to over schedule, consider whether the timing is right. "It is never a good idea to go over budget or stretch your finances for the sake of travel. Part of the reason we continued on page 18
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travel is to free ourselves of the bondage of the daily grind we all face," notes Merritt. "But if traveling is going to result in more stress than staying home, it's best to sock away your savings until you can go and actually enjoy the trip." Rather than take a long vacation extending from the day the kids get out of school (or prior) until the night before school resumes, you may want to reserve time for a reentry period. Instead, save the fancier vacation for a longer time frame such as summer. "A week sounds like a long time," says Kimm Pilditch, mother of three. "But it's not really that much. Don't make it overwhelming. Some of the funnest times we've had are times when we've not completely scheduled and had some down time." Bridget Cahill, mom to three girls, agrees. She plans shorter trips, allowing a day or two at home for getting back on routine. "Keep it simple," she suggests. "Shorten the trip a little. All you need is four or five days to get away." Unplug and enjoy your surroundings For time off to be a break, there should be a shift from the ordinary. This is most easily done when vacationing away from home (and a primary reason many people choose to travel). But in our digitally connected age taking a break requires another layer of breaking away other than simple physical distance. It may also mean turning off digital devices. "That means, when you go on spring break, put away the laptops, and forget carpools, volunteer commitments and cleaning the house... just enjoy time together and deal with "real life" on your return," says Williams. Instead, focus on what's in front of you. Turn your face to the sun and feel the sand under your feet at the beach. Pause to observe the individual brushstrokes of that painting in the museum. Taste, hear and smell what's around you wherever you go. With this purpose in mind, you may choose to absorb the sights and sounds of areas closer to home. Pilditch chose this approach one year for her family when she planned a weeklong "staycation" in their city. "When we planned it we were thinking, 'what things can we do to help us get a better understanding of the city we live in and how can we better appreciate it,'" says Pilditch. Helping your family take a break from the ordinary and make discoveries about the place where you vacation can be all it takes to make a great spring break. Says Cahill, "I love getting away from the monotony of being at home. It's a nice vacation from the daily blah's." Wherever you go and whatever you do, review your goals for spring break. If you keep them simple and focus on family, a relaxed schedule, and unplugging to enjoy your surroundings, you'll find yourself returning from break ready to take on the rest of the school year. 18 • March 2016 / www.stjohnsparentparent.com
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feature
Seven Questions
Parents Should Ask When Choosing a Summer Camp
A
s summer vacation gets closer, many parents begin looking for activities to keep their children busy. Each year, the parents of more than 10 million children make the decision to send their children to summer camp. While some families have already decided on a camp, others are still exploring their options. For these families, it can be difficult to choose – especially when the diversity of camps today reflects the diversity of America. There is truly a camp for every child, every interest, and every budget. The American Camp Association® (ACA) recommends that parents ask the following questions to get a better feel for which camp experience best suits their child: 1) What is the camp's philosophy and program emphasis? – Each camp has its own method of constructing programs based on its philosophy. Does it complement your family’s philosophy? Does the camp focus on learning through competition, or through cooperative learning? How does the camp handle homesickness and other adjustment issues? 2) What is the camp director's background? – ACA recommends directors possess a bachelor's degree, have completed in-service training within the past three years, and have at least sixteen weeks of camp administrative experience before assuming the responsibilities of director. 3) What training do counselors receive? – At a minimum, camp staff should be trained in safety regulations, emergency procedures and communication, behavior management techniques, child abuse prevention, appropriate staff and camper behavior, and specific procedures for supervision. 4) How are behavioral and disciplinary problems handled? – This is where the director's philosophy comes through loud and clear. Do they use positive reinforcement? What are the rules and consequences? 5) How does the camp handle special needs? – For a child with special requirements, parents should ask the camp director about needed provisions and facilities. Is there a nurse on staff? A designated place to store insulin or allergy medicine? Are special foods available for campers with restricted diets? Every question is important. 6) What about references? – Parents shouldn’t be afraid to ask for references. This is generally one of the best ways to check a camp's reputation and service record. 7) Is the camp accredited by the American Camp Association? Why? Why not? – ACA-Accredited® camps meet up to 300 health and safety standards. This does not guarantee a risk-free environment, but it's some of the best evidence parents have of a camp's commitment to a safe and nurturing environment for their children. ©2009 American Camping Association, Inc.
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kids in the kitchen Leprechaun Hunt with Leprechaun Munch
Eating Treats and Fun Activities for Saint Patrick’s Day
by Alexa Bigwarfe
For those of us with children, St. Patrick's Day celebrations shift from where to find green beer to where to find the best parades and how to make green shamrock crafts. Never fear, we've got some fun treats and activities for St. Patrick's Day right here! How familiar are you with the origins of St. Patrick's Day? St. Patrick, the Patron Saint of Ireland, is not only the impetus behind the Christian movement in Ireland, but is also known for driving the snakes out of Ireland. Well, figuratively anyway. There are actually no snakes in Ireland, and it is believed there probably never were. However, St. Patrick led the movement to convert the pagans (who often used snakes in their symbols) to Christianity, thereby driving the "snakes" out. Did you know it's actually a three leaf clover that brings the luck. St. Patrick used the three leaf clover to explain the holy trinity to the pagans, which is how the clover became the flower of Ireland. In Ireland, St. Patrick's Day is a religious holiday, a day for praying for missionaries around
the world and for spiritual renewal. Since the United States has a large Irish population, it is widely celebrated here, with shamrocks, pots of gold, leprechauns, and all things green. Why the leprechaun? There is no reason that leprechauns are associated with St. Patrick's Day, beyond the fact that St. Patrick's Day is associated with all things Irish. Leprechauns are male fairies in Irish folklore often an older, tiny man who is particularly mischievous. According to the tales, the leprechauns are very rich and have many treasures, including gold that they hide in secret places. If you catch a leprechaun, they have to take you to their treasure. But, if you take your eyes off of them, they can vanish instantly. Fun activities include hunts for clovers, scavenger hunts, coloring activities and other printable activities, or attend a local parade. Perhaps the most fun activity of all is to take your kids on a magical leprechaun hunt (in your house) using mystical Leprechaun Munch to catch those sneaky fairies.
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To catch a leprechaun with this munch, just spoon out some and wait for a crunch. Since Leprechauns love the color green, it won't take long, but while you watch and wait, you can snack along! When the kids aren't watching, replace some of the munch trail with gold coins... the calling card of the leprechaun! How to make Leprechaun Munch: Add equal parts of each ingredient Crumbled pretzel sticks Green marshmallows from Lucky Charms Coconut M&M's (Only green and white) Rice Chex cereal Green Sprinkles Add all ingredients into a plastic bag Shake well! Another easy and festive snack to make with your kids and take for school snack or teacher treats:
The Shamrock Snack
Ingredients: Regular pretzels (small - 3 for each shamrock) Stick pretzels (1 for each shamrock) Chocolate bar - melted (may need more than one depending on the size)
Green M&Ms Directions: 1. Make your "shamrocks" by arranging the regular pretzels (3 each shamrock) 2. Place a straight pretzel as a "stem." 3. Take the melted chocolate and drop a big spoonful in the center, ensuring that the 3 pretzels and the stick pretzel are bonded together. 4. Place an M&M in the center and let it cool - preferably overnight.
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feature
Growing a Green Kid
by Carol J. Alexander
Living a green life isn’t just for adults. The next generation can be trained from a young age to be good stewards of the earth and to live a sustainable lifestyle. But what exactly can a preschooler do? Or a 12 year old? Read on for 40 ways that you can encourage your child to not only reduce, re-use, and recycle; but to enjoy it. Are your recycle bins in the garage or the side of the house? A preschooler can run that plastic jug or aluminum can out there for you. To encourage him in this chore, take the aluminum cans to the scrap yard and let him keep the money you get for them. A preschooler can also run the scrap bucket out to the compost bin after supper each evening. When you have finished compost to add to the garden, let your small child use it in a flower pot to plant some seeds. This will get him started in gardening from an early age. Kids love things we find repulsive, like worms. An elementary-aged child can start a worm bed. He can re-locate the worms to the garden or flower beds in spring, or sell them as fishing
bait. You can buy worm bed kits in Walmart’s sporting goods department. Give your child a garden row or raised bed just for herself. If she’s successful in growing any produce, buy it from her. If you do not have the space for a garden, encourage your kids to plant tomatoes, herbs, or greens in pots on the patio. Save seeds. Using a reference like Seed to Seed: Seed Saving and Growing Techniques for Vegetable Gardeners by Suzanne Ashworth, David Cavagnaro and Kent Whealy, save the seeds from what you grow in your garden. Have your kids label and store them for the next planting season. Teach him to grow sprouts. Eat them regularly on your salads and sandwiches. Make growing them the child’s responsibility. Order seed catalogs. When they come in the mail, have your children use them for a scavenger hunt in the produce section of the grocery store. Can you find Brussels sprouts? Occasionally buy a new fruit or vegetable from the produce section of the
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supermarket to try. A few suggestions are pomegranate, plantain, coconut, tomatillo, or papaya. Study the food in the supermarket together. What are the ingredients? Are they natural? Check out the packaging. Does the large box of crackers contain four smaller boxes in which you find individually wrapped packages? How could you more ecologically package the crackers? What are you going to do with all that trash? Turn your pet food bags into shopping bags. A child old enough to use a sewing machine can handle this project and once the family has enough, she can sew more to sell. Keep backyard chickens. Depending on the child’s age, have him collect eggs or care for them entirely. Let him sell the excess to neighbors. Have a rooster? Buy an incubator and introduce her to hatching her own chicks. If you don’t need to grow your flock, she can sell them to make extra money. Live where you can’t have farm animals? Take your preschoolers to the park to feed the ducks. Better yet, visit a farm. If you do not grow your own food, buy as much as possible locally. Visit the farm, and the cow, that gives you
milk. Pick your own berries, pumpkins, or melons.
Rather than cut flowers that die in a week, give your daughter an African violet for Valentine’s Day.
Subscribe to a Community Supported Agricultural share. To find a CSA farm in your area, visit http://www.localharvest.org/csa/.
Spend as much time outside as possible. Ride bikes, hike trails, commune with nature.
Visit the farmers market together. Listen to the conversations. Ask about where the food comes from.
Replace the screen with books, tools, pets, and other hands-on, earth-friendly activities.
Throw out the cleaners. Talk to your kids about toxic chemicals and involve them in making your own laundry soap, tub and shower cleaner, and personal care products.
Go camping—in a tent, away from cell service, without a stove, electricity, or other modern conveniences.
Buy him field guides for birds, wildflowers, rocks, or whatever interests him. Encourage him in his identification activities. Plant a terrarium. Build birdfeeders and watch the birds. Start a bird journal. Participate in the Christmas Bird Count by the National Audubon Society.
Learn an up-cycle craft. Create purses from old blue jeans, rugs from plastic grocery bags, or mosaics from broken pottery. Take a field trip to your local landfill. Discuss the waste you see and explain to your child the environmental impact of a throw-away society.
Encourage nature journaling. A great resource for this is the Handbook of Nature Study by Anna B. Comstock.
Teach your older child to take apart old appliances or computers for the scrap metal. Take him to the scrap yard to turn it in for profit.
Plant a butterfly garden. Keep a butterfly chrysalis in a jar and watch it emerge then release it.
Turn off the lights and the water. Be an example and teach the kids to do likewise.
Buy energy-efficient light bulbs and explain the difference to your children. Install rain barrels. Teach the kids to use that water for watering the garden and flower beds outside. Install solar panels. You don’t have to power your entire house with them. Growing up, my parents installed a solar panel just to run the hot water heater. The power company bought back any excess energy the panel created. Use a clothesline. A child can hang out the wash before he is tall enough by standing on a stool. Show him how wonderful the clothes smell when he takes them down to fold. Walk to the store. If you live in an urban area, don’t pile the kids in the car to drive a couple blocks down the road. Enjoy the walk together. Participate in trash pick-up activities with local organizations like the 4-H and Boy or Girl Scouts. Subscribe to a children’s nature magazine like Nature Friend, Zoobooks, or Ranger Rick. www.stjohnsparent.com / March 2016 • 25
events March 4
March 2016 We need to hear from you. Our magazines list local events for families. To submit an event, send your information by the 10th of the preceding month to:
charlie@bradymediainc.com or mail to: 515 Palm Coast Pwy., SW, Ste. 5 Palm Coast, FL 32137
Ancient City Gymnastics Parent Night Out 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm 1703 Lakeside Ave. St. Augustine, FL www.ancientcitygymnastics.net Parent's Night Out at the Alligator Farm 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm Let us entertain your kids in a safe and educational environment while you and yours have a night on the town. St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, 999 Anastasia Blvd, St Augustine, FL Cost: $25 Member and $30 Non-Member www.alligatorfarm.com March 5
March 4 Lions Seafood Festival Great seafood nearly any way you want it. Tap your toes to live Jazz, Americana, Bluegrass, Folk and country music, ... Francis Field at 25 Castillo Drive next to the Visitor's Center in Downtown St. Augustine, Florida Cost: $3 Adult Admission, Children 12 & under Free! www.lionsfestival.com Fit Mama Boot Camp 8:15 am Fit Mamas is a fitness boot camp designed for moms to lose weight, build strength & muscle tone and have a great time. St. Augustine Pier Cost: $10 for one class or $75 for 10! Salomonservices.com
Lions Seafood Festival Great seafood nearly any way you want it. Tap your toes to live Jazz, Americana, Bluegrass, Folk and country music Francis Field at 25 Castillo Drive next to the Visitor's Center in Downtown St. Augustine, Florida Cost: $3 Adult Admission, Children 12 & under Free! www.lionsfestival.com 2016 Expanding Your Horizons Conference 8:00 am - 3:00 pmFor young women grades 5, 6, 7 and 8!! University of North Florida's University Center Cost: $20 www.eyhnorthflorida.org The St. Augustine Flea Market 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Fresh produce is offered every Saturday and Sunday at The St. Augustine Flea Market. 2495 State Road 207 Free staugustinefleamarket.com Cheer Tryout Prep Clinic 10:00 am - 12:00 pm For anyone who is trying out for cheer: This clinic is to help you prepare for what to expect at tryouts 125 E Davis Industrial Dr., St. Augustine, FL 32086 Cost: $10.00 per athlete www.anchorathletics.org
Dr. Seuss Themed Toddler Time This is a sweet outing for little ones! 10:00 am - 10:45 am 400 N. Hogan St. Jacksonville Fl. 32202 Cost: $7.50 www.sweetpetescandy.com
Sunburst Model Search and Spring Beauty Pageant at Orange Park Mall 11:00 am During the event, contestants will compete for outstanding prizes and awards and will win their entry fee paid Orange Park Mall, 1910 Wells Rd, Orange Park, FL 32073 www.sunburstbeauty.com
Music for Minis 10:30 am A music class for babies, toddlers, and minis up to 5 years old including songs, dancing, instruments and music 3149 N Ponce De Leon Blvd, Saint Augustine, Florida 32084 Cost: $10 Drop In Or $85 Punch Card For 10 Classes That Doesn't Expire! www.facebook.com
Disney Live! Mickey and Minnie's Doorway to Magic 1:00 pm Open the door to reveal mesmerizing worlds of unforgettable Disney moments and grand illusions with Disney Live! Times Union Center Performing Arts Moran Theater, Jacksonville, FL www.ticketmaster.com
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March 5 Lighthouse 5K & Fun Run 4:30 pm Please join us for this year's Lighthouse 5k & Fun Run! 5K and Fun Run will Start and End @ St. Augustine Lighthouse (81 Lighthouse Ave) Cost: $5 - $20 March 6 Jacksonville Zoo Destination Dino Opening Weekend 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Dinosaurs are back! Come explore the next generation of animatronic, prehistoric fun with our ALL-NEW, life-size, life-like DINOSAURS! 370 Zoo Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32218 Cost: $4.00 per person for non-members $3.00 per person for members jaxzoodinos.org MOPS 9:30 am - 11:30 am Moms with children from infancy to Kindergarten, there is a group that meets twice a month called MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) http://www.mops.org Evenings at Whitney: Kids Curing Cancer through Diet 7:00 pm Alana O’Reilly, associate professor at Temple University School of Medicine’s Fox Chase Cancer Center, will share her research. 9505 Ocean Shore Blvd. St. Augustine, FL FREE www.whitney.ufl.edu March 11 Ancient City Gymnastics Parent Night Out 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm 1703 Lakeside Ave. St. Augustine, FL 32084 www.ancientcitygymnastics.net Parent's Night Out (WGV) 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm You’ve been working hard and need a night out 150 St. Johns Business Pl, Suite 304, St. Augustine, FL Cost: Cost is $15 per child ($10 for each additional family member.) www.shinseikarate.org The St Augustine Celtic Music & Heritage Festival 7:30 pm The three-day St. Augustine Celtic Music &Heritage Festival is arguably the finest Celtic event in the Southeast U.S. Francis Field 29 W. Castillo Drive St. Augustine FL Cost: $7 - $55 www.celticstaugustine.com
events March 11 Tim Tebow Foundation Celebrity Gala and Golf Classic 9:00 am The annual Tim Tebow Foundation Celebrity Gala and Golf Classic is an opportunity for Tim to host his celebrity friends. 110 Championship Way Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 Cost: $15 for adults and $10 for 18 & under. www.timtebowfoundation.org St. Patrick's Day Parade 10:00 am The luck o' the Irish be with you at the St. Augustine St. Patrick's Day Parade In Downtown St. Augustine, FL FREE www.celticstaugustine.com March 13 Christian Surfers 6:00 pm Come join Christian Surfers St Augustine every Monday at 6pm at The Multiplication Center for free dinner and hangout! 6505 A1A S, St Augustine, FL, 32080 FREE www.facebook.com Disney’s The Lion King, Jr. 7:00 pm St. Johns County Center for the Arts at Murray Middle School presents the Murray Players in Disney’s The Lion King St. Augustine Amphitheatre 1340 SR-A1A S St Augustine Cost: $10 for adults, $5 for students/children www.showtix4u.com Nocatee Farmers Market 10 am - 2 pm The third Saturday of every month come check out the Nocatee Farmers' Market. Featuring more than 70 vendors...from fresh produce Nocatee, 245 Little River Road Ponte Vedra, Florida 32081 FREE nocatee.com The Founding Of Fort Mose 10 am - 3 pm Travel back in time and witness the founding of Florida’s “Fortress of Freedom” – Fort Mose! Fort Mose Historic State Park Cost: FREE for this event - There is a Museum admission fee of $2.00 per adult; children (age 5 and younger) are free. www.floridalivinghistory.org March 19 Low Country Boil & Beer Festival 11:00 am - 7:00 pm Low Country Boil! BBQ Chicken, Beer, Music, BellyDancers, Pirates and Mermaids St. Augustine Municipal Marina 111 Avenida Menendez, Saint Augustine, FL FREE
March 19 World Golf Village Gymnastics 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm At World Golf Village Gymnastics we use love and encouragement to coach your child! 314 Commerce Lake Drive Suite 204 St. Augustine FL Cost: $25 per student and $15 for additional siblings wgvgymnastics.com March 22 MOPS Moms with children from infancy to Kindergarten, there is a group that meets twice a month called MOPS 9:30 am - 11:30 am http://www.mops.org March 30 St. Augustine Race week - 2016 Schedule of Racing Events 7 p.m. Competitor’s Meeting – St. Augustine Yacht Club 10 p.m. Cruiser A Overnight Race St. Augustine Yacht Club 442 Ocean Vista Avenue St. Augustine, FL 32080 EVENTS IN SURROUNDING AREAS March 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th Yoga in the Gardens 9 am – 10:30am Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, FL Join us for this all-level, gentle yoga class incorporating meditation, breathing exercises, and gentle movement. $75 for the 4 week course, park entry included. Pre-registration required, limited spaces. 386-446-6783 Amy.Biedenbach@dep.state.fl.us March 9 Boy Scouts Of America, Troop 472 6:30pm – 8:00pm Flagler Beach United Methodist Church 1520 S Daytona Ave, Flagler Beach, FL Boys 10 1/2 - 18. Go Camping, Swimming, Water Skiing, Fishing, Biking, White Water Rafting, Archery, Rifle Shooting, Shot Gun Shooting. Learn Leadership, First Aid, Map and Compass, Knots, Fire Building. ALL while having fun. $ 2.00 a month to National Headquarters. Contact Info: pepsimanb@yahoo.com
March 12 6thAnnual Camp Fair & Summer Vacation Expo 10:00 am – 2:00 pm Port Orange Pavilion The 6th Annual Camp Fair & Summer Vacation Expo is presented by Volusia Parent Magazine. This is the only show of its kind in the Volusia County area. This expo will showcase places to send children for experiences that will turn into life-long memories! The Camp and Summer Planning Expo will provide busy parents with a one-stop resource for information regarding availability, daily activities, cost and much more with so many summer camps, all conveniently assembled under one roof. Many parents spend hours and hours calling around to area camps to find one that fits the needs of their child or children. Whether parents are looking for day camps, overnight camps, or camps with a special theme, parents will be able to talk directly with camp providers, compare camps, and register their child for the summer fun that fits the needs of their child. Parents are encouraged to bring the entire family to this event where kids will enjoy playing in the Fun Zone, including inflatable's, face painting, temporary tattoos, a Balloon Making Clown, make-it-take art center, Mad Science Shows, Free Caricatures. There will be live demonstrations all day long; including dance teams, karate instruction, police departments & fire departments. Parents not able to attend the event can pick up a copy of the March 2016 issue of Volusia or Flagler Parent Magazine or visit our websites at www.flaglerparent.com or www.volusiaparent.com to find a comprehensive list of summer camp options in your local area. March 16 Marine Science Center: Turtle Tots 10am Games, Songs, and Stories **For Ages 2-5, accompanied by an adult** **Meets monthly- Program included with general admission. Marine Science Center 100 Lighthouse Drive, Ponce Inlet marinesciencecenter.com March 19 Dash for Downs 5k 9:00 am Come join us for a run/walk through beautiful Gemini Springs. This 5K is honoring World Down Syndrome Day. Location: 37 Dirksen Drive Debary, FL US 32713 Website: runsignup.com Night Hike at the Zoo! 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Experience the sights and sounds of the Zoo at night during this exciting nocturnal adventure! Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens 3755 NW Hwy 17-92 Sanford, FL www.centralfloridazoo.org
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feature
Six Books to Read With Your Kids
During Women’s History Month by Cindy Hudson
March is Women's History Month, and while your kids may encounter activities about famous women from history at school or your local library, this month is also a good time to open a conversation at home. You can easily do that by reading a book with your child about a famous woman from history. Books can help you talk about ways that women pushed the boundaries in the work they sought to do, the rights they held in society-like the right to vote and the right to own property-and more. Here are a few ideas for great books to read with your daughter or son this month. Check with your local librarian for even more suggestions. Nonfiction My Name is Not Isabella: Just How Big Can a Little Girl Dream By Jennifer Fosberry, pictures by Mike Litwin. Ages 5 to 8. Focuses on some of the strongest females in history, like Sally Ride and Rosa Parks, as seen through the eyes of a little girl who looks up to them. Brief biographies in the back of the book offer more information and can lead to further exploration.
Rebel in a Dress: Cowgirls and Rebel in a Dress: Adventurers By Sylvia Branzei, illustrations by Melissa Sweet. Ages 8 to 12. Showcases women who pushed the boundaries of their times to achieve what they wanted. Includes quotes from the women featured and those who knew them, as well as notes about other events going on in the world during the times in which they lived. Girls now are mostly told they can do and be anything they want, and these books show just how far society has come for that to happen.
In Disguise! Undercover with Real Women Spies By Ryan Ann Hunter. Ages 9 to 12. Highlights the stories of women who acted as spies during the American Revolution, the Civil War, World War I, World War II, and other conflicts. Readers will also learn about some of the techniques used in spying over the years and learn how to try a few of them out.
The Heroine's Bookshelf: Life Lessons from Jane Austen to Laura Ingalls Wilder By Erin Blakemore. Ages 13 and up. Pairs favorite heroines in literary history with their female authors and analyzes both the similarities and differences in their lives. In the past, women faced multiple barriers in bringing their stories to print, and many of them, even those we think of as successful, struggled with poverty their entire lives.
Fiction Promise the Night By Michaela MacColl. Ages 9 to 12. Introduces young readers to Beryl Markham, an Englishwoman who grew up in the wilds of Africa and became an aviatrix and the first woman to fly solo from Europe to North America.
Caddie Woodlawn by Carol Ryrie Brink. Ages 9 to 12. Depiction of American pioneer life and the role women were expected to play in it. Caddie has no interest in being a "lady," preferring to run in the woods with her brothers. Based on the real-life stories of the author's grandmother. 28 • March 2016 / www.stjohnsparentparent.com
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