January 2015

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January 2015

Information, Education and Entertainment for Northeast Florida Families

mattamyhomes.com

HAPPINESS LIVES HERE! Mattamy communities are filled with children’s laughter and families enjoying the most of every single day.

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FOR INFORMATION ON ALL OUR JACKSONVILLE COMMUNITIES VISIT US AT MATTAMYHOMES.COM Sales Center Hours: Monday to Thursday and Saturday 10am–6pm; Friday and Sunday 12pm–6pm • Follow us: All illustrations are artist’s concept. All dimensions are approximate. Prices, specifications, terms and conditions subject to change without notice. E.&O.E. Builder’s License #CRC1330987.

Page 2 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2015

Contents

Letter From The Editor

January 2015

Dear Readers,

I

think we would all agree that an important part of parenting is setting your kids up for success in the future and this includes in the area of their health. This issue is dedicated to the health and safety of your children.

living well Tidbits.................................................................................................... 4 Community Profile: Nourishment Network................................................ 5

Health & safety

On Jan 1st, the new child passenger safety seat law went into effect. If you have a child age 6 or under, you’ll want read about the new law on page 26. If your child is in need of a booster seat, Safe Kids provides them free of charge. Details are also on page 26. Kudos to THE PLAYERS and the law firm of Holland and Knight for supporting Safe Kids and making the important work of keeping our children safe possible.

About 85 percent of a person’s brain develops by age 5 so early learning is another important key to your child’s future success. January 2nd marks the 10 year anniversary of then Governor Jeb Bush signing the Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) legislation into law. VPK is FREE for your Florida child who is age 4 by September 1. Parents can choose from one of several program options available from private and public providers. Learn more at www.floridaearlylearning.com.

for their health.

An issue dedicated to Health and Safety without addressing internet safety would not be complete and so, in this issue, we cover some very important topics related to Internet Safety and social media. Read these articles on page 10 and 23.

Included in this month’s issue is the Spring course schedule for the Duval County Public School’s Parent Academy. These FREE courses will give you the knowledge and tools you need for personal growth, parenting, advocacy and to help your child achieve in school and in life.

Years ago I attended a health seminar and the speaker was a physician with three daughters.

When asked what would be the #1 thing he would do for his daughters’ health, he replied, “ensure they get plenty of calcium and start early”. Turn to To your health! page 7 to find out why it’s so important.

Until next month, If you have a child age 12 and older, there is an excellent article on the Teen Page (page 28) to Alison Peters-Carlson help you prepare your child to take responsibility Editor

Make 2015 Lean and Green!.................................................................. 6 Kid-friendly Eating for the New Year......................................................... 7 Nemours Seeking Children with Asthma for Clinical Trials......................... 8 Things to Do, Health Events..................................................................... 9 Stress, Gut and Also the Brain!..............................................................10 Creating Safer Passwords.....................................................................10 Riding into the New Year.......................................................................11 Circus-inspired Fitness Ideas................................................................12

Duval county public Schools Parent Academy Spring 2015 course catalog...................................13-20

Clay County School news Clay County School Board Election........................................................21 Keep that Straight-A Average Safe and Sound.......................................21

St. Johns County School news CHARACTER COUNTS! 6 Pillars 6K/3K Run/Walk...................................22 The St. Johns County School District now has its own app......................22

education

Learning to Live with Social Media........................................................23 Florida Native Takes the Stage as Circus Ringmaster..............................24 Things to Do, Education Events.............................................................24 That’s My Job! Optometrist...................................................................24

Infant & Toddler Follow us...

Alison Peters-Carlson Editor....................................... editor@jax4kids.com Linda Bigbee Graphic Designer......................................linda@jax4kids.com Jen Cramer Circulation Manager...................................... jen@jax4kids.com Doug Berle Advertising Sales......................................... doug@jax4kids.com Adam Bolton Advertising Sales..................................... adam@jax4kids.com Beth Canonica Advertising Sales.................................... beth@jax4kids.com Donna Paunetto Advertising Sales.............................. donna@jax4kids.com Steve Tremel Advertising Sales......................................steve@jax4kids.com Mary Gustafson Business Manager............................... mary@jax4kids.com Judi Fields Administrative Assistant Nancy Lee Bethea Contributing Writer Published by Child Enrichment, LLC, 12620-3 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246. Copyright 2015.

Reproduction of any artwork or copy prepared by Jax4Kids.com To Go is strictly prohibited without written consent of the publisher. We will not be responsible for any errors and/or omissions. The Publisher’s liability for error will not exceed the cost of space occupied by the error. Articles for publication are welcome and may be sent to editor@jax4kids.com. For more information concerning advertising, call 904-710-2020 or e-mail advertise@jax4kids.com.

Page 3 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2015

Florida’s Stronger Child Passenger Safety Law Taking Effect January 1...26 Things to Do, Infant & Toddler Events.....................................................26 Kids Say the Funniest Things.................................................................26

special needs

Dealing with Wandering of an Autistic Child...........................................27 Things to Do, Special Needs Events.......................................................27

Teens Teen Health..........................................................................................28 Things to Do, Teen Events.....................................................................28

Pets

Get a Puppy for Better Health................................................................29 Things to Do, Pet Events.......................................................................29

Things to do

January Events.....................................................................................30

that is 20 miles per hour less than the posted speed limit.

If the speed limit is 20 miles per hour or less, you must slow down to 5 miles per hour.

STAY SAFE AND CONNECTED WITH YOUR NIGHTLIGHT!

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE MOBILE COLLECTION EVENTS

The Leeo Smart Alert, a nightlight on steroids, is a $99 “plug and play accessory” that lets you “listen” for your home smoke and carbon monoxide alarms while you’re away.

Ever wondered what to do with your household hazardous waste and electronic waste? The City of Jacksonville schedules mobile collection events 11 times a year at various locations throughout the city. Residents are encouraged to utilize these mobile events to dispose of waste in order to prevent otherwise recyclable and/or hazardous materials from being disposed of in the landfill. Residents can also drop off their household hazardous waste and e-waste year-round at the Household Hazardous Waste Facility located at 2675 Commonwealth Ave, Tuesdays through Saturdays, from 8 am until 5 pm.

Through a smartphone app and your home WiFi, the Smart Alert will notify you if there is a problem, or if you are unavailable, it will contact anyone you specify. It will also keep tabs on your home’s temperature and humidity.

But most of the time it’s just an unobtrusive little nightlight – albeit one that comes on when it is needed and has 16 million color options to fit any mood or décor.

January’s Saturday mobile collection dates and locations are:

Check it out at leeo.com.

Jan. 24 Jacksonville Beach Public Works Dept.

1460 Shetter Ave., Jacksonville Beach

SEAWORLD APPS FOR KIDS SeaWorld has introduced new, fun, educational and FREE apps for kids including Penguin’s Playground with 18 activities featuring funny playful penguins, videos, interactive games and educational e-books to engage the creative mind of your child. Polar Bear Playground has video clips of polar bears, digital picture books, interactive games, photo galleries and coloring pages. The Baby Animals app is filled with activities that highlight the lives of newborn animals. Download these apps along with the Ocean Tales, Tigers, Lions & Cheetahs, and the Sea World Kids Network app from the App Store.

MOVE OVER FLORIDA! LIVES DEPEND ON IT If you are driving on an interstate or roadway with multiple lanes of travel in the same direction, and you approach an emergency or law enforcement vehicle parked along the roadway, a sanitation vehicle or a utility service vehicle, you must vacate the lane closest to that vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so. If you are not able to safely move over, you must slow down to a speed of 20 MPH below the posted speed limit unless directed otherwise by a law enforcement officer.

On a two-lane roadway, you are required to slow to a speed

Page 4 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2015

Jan. 10 Oceanway Park, 12215 Sago Ave.

VEG-FRIENDLY DINING GUIDE If you want to eat a more plant based diet, check out www. vegjax.com for a veg-friendly dining guide. Restaurants are listed by area of town to make it easy to find restaurants near you. The veg-friendly dining guide is the work of The Girls Gone Green. Visit them online at www.thegirlsgonegreen.com and learn more about their mission to eliminate EPS foam (Styrofoam) due to its high probability of leaking known carcinogens into the food and harmful toxins into the environment.

PEDESTRIAN DANGER! Jacksonville ranks third in the top 10 most dangerous cities for pedestrians in the United States according to a report recently released by Smart Growth America, a national group dedicated to improving the design of our communities.

In fact, our whole state is dangerous when it comes to walking. Orlando tops the nation, Tampa/St. Pete comes in second and Miami is fourth. Rounding out the list are (in order): Memphis, Birmingham, Houston, Atlanta, Phoenix and Charlotte. The top 10 cities are all in the Sunbelt, an area of our country that experienced poorly designed, uncontrolled growth following World War II. Over the decade from 2003-2012, 47,025 people died while walking on U.S. streets. That’s 16 times the number of Americans who died in natural disasters —earthquakes,

floods, hurricanes and tornadoes. On top of that, an estimated 676,000 were injured —meaning someone on foot was hit by a car about every eight minutes.

Visit www.smartgrowthamerica.org/dangerous-by-design to see what you can do to reverse the trend.

BACH’S RESCUE REMEDY FOR PETS Animals experience emotions like fear, anger, jealousy, depression, happiness and joy just as we do. For 80 years, Bach’s Rescue Remedy has been helping both people and pets reduce negative emotions. If you have a pet who experiences stress and anxiety from situations such as thunder, fireworks or separation, consider this natural stress reducer. You’ll find it in many health stores and online at www.bachflower.com/rescue-remedy-pet

CALORIE CALCULATOR To help with that New Year’s resolution, the folks at healthstatus.com have come up with a calorie calculator. Go to healthstatus.com/calculator/cbc to count how many calories you burn doing your favorite activities or how long you should do an activity to lose weight.

• Enter your age and gender • Enter your height and weight • Enter the number of minutes for any of the activities you

do (1 or all) click the (+) to expand the categories • Click on calculate at the bottom of the form for your calorie calculator personal report Knowing the number of calories you burn in conjunction with a sensible diet can help you lose or gain weight.

FREE ADMISSION TO NATIONAL PARKS Mark your calendars! The National Parks offer FREE admission on the following dates in 2015. Visit www.nps.gov to find a park, plan your visit and more.

January 19, Martin Luther King Jr. Day February 14-16, Presidents Day weekend April 18-19, Opening weekend of National Park Week August 25, National Park Service Birthday September 26, National Public Lands Day November 11, Veterans Day

LET’S CONNECT

Living well

Community Profile: Nourishment Network

F

or more than 35 years the Nourishment Network, a non-profit hunger-relief program of Lutheran Social Services, has been attacking hunger in North Florida.

Assistance Program (SNAP) helps put food on the table for some 31 million people per month. It provides low-income households with monthly electronic benefits they can use like cash at most grocery stores. This is the same program formerly known as food stamps. The organization is also a partner in the Flagler County Mobile Benefits Program, which was formed to help residents gain access to the millions of dollars in SNAP benefits that go unused each year.

The food bank distributes food to more than 450 member agencies in 17 counties. These member agencies include soup kitchens, food pantries, senior citizens groups, nonprofit daycares, youth programs, and residential facilities. The counties include Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Clay, Columbia, Dixie, Duval, Flagler, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Community Gardens Initiative – Through the use Levy, Nassau, Putnam, St. Johns, Suwannee and of donated, vacant parcels in food insecure Union. neighborhoods, families grow In addition to vegetables and its food fruit in collection and quantities distribution sufficient to responsibilisupplement ties, Nourishevery meal. ment Network Health Begins operates the Before Birth following: – Provides After-School low-income and Summer expectant Youth Feeding mothers Program – Works through donated and purchased nutritious meals during their pregnancies. The foods and supplies. Menus are developed and program is designed to reduce the area’s infant items are distributed to participating sites. Staff mortality and premature birth rates. and volunteers assist with homework and other planned activities.

A major fundraiser is the annual Empty Bowls luncheon – the 30th one was held in November.

Backpack Program – Designed to meet the needs The luncheon, during which attendees buy a of hungry children at times when other resources handcrafted ceramic bowl, is designed to raise are not available, such as weekends and school awareness of the hunger problem in Northeast vacations.

Florida as well as raise funds for the organization.

Mobile Pantry – Distributes donated food directly to families in need in their own neighborhood.

Recovered Food Sharing – More than 24 million pounds of donated and rescued surplus food is distributed to more than 450 nonprofit agencies; churches and synagogues, youth services, day care and rehabilitation centers that operate food services, soup kitchens or pantries.

SNAP Outreach – The Supplemental Nutrition

Nourishment Network is the oldest and largest program of Lutheran Social Services of Northeast Florida. LSS was founded in 1979 by area Lutherans and business leaders and continues to be led by Lutheran Church Missouri Synod and Evangelical Lutheran Church of America congregations.

If you are hungry or want to help in this effort see the website wenourishhope.org. j

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CHILDREN’S ART CLASSES now in Jacksonville!

This program of ART for your child was developed in the Southwest, and has taken Children’s Art to an entirely NEW level! Your child will learn and achieve, and will be given recognition for this achievement at his/her very own Annual Art Show!

ER R E G IS TY !

TODA

Registration is now open!

Classes will be taught and supervised by a certified Art Teacher with 25 years experience in this proven method of Studio Art Education.

Students will work with pencil, charcoal, ink, printmaking, painting, design, water colors, cast paper, clay and much, much more!

Art Classes are available to children ages 3 and up, and will meet once a week. Tuition is $76/month. Classes meet at: 8411 Baymeadows Way #2 Jacksonville, FL 32256

1406 Kingsley Ave Orange Park, FL 32073

Don’t miss out on this opportunity! Give your child this gift of Art! Class size is limited, so register TODAY! Call for further information or visit us online at www.childrensartclasses.com to view details and print out your own REGISTRATION FORM. Upon registration, you will receive confirmation and registration packet.

904.612.7557 www.childrensartclasses.com BAYMEADOWS 8411 Baymeadows Way #2 Jacksonville, FL 32256

Barbara Gay 904.612.7557 or Stephanie Larsen 904.962.4292

ORANGE PARK 1406 Kingsley Ave Orange Park, FL 32073

Barbara Gay Jessica Grotberg

904.612.7557 or 904.729.6144

health & safety

Make 2015 Lean and Green!

I t’s a new year! It’s an opportunity to try new things, and an opportunity to make improvements in areas of your life that may have been lacking attention before. Finding yourself at a new start in life can be both scary and exciting at the same time. What do you want to change this year? What are you willing to say good-bye to and what are you ready to embrace this year? Take a step back and think for a moment what is important to your family’s health and well-being.

Does it involve changes in eating habits, exercise or rest time? Even if you haven’t thought about it much, we can all make improvements in what we eat (the green) and the time spent in physical activity (the lean). If you don’t make any other changes this year, try to at least make one positive change in eating habits and take one step towards increasing daily exercise.

Green One way to become green this year is to plant your own family garden. With a little bit of effort and lots of nurturing, your children can learn an important life lesson – that food is precious. We have a bad habit in America of wasting tons of food each year. Watching the entire process of growing your own food – from seed to harvest – is an enriching activity for the whole family and makes one appreciate the time that is involved in growing a healthy harvest. The University of Florida Agricultural Extension Office has wonderful tips on gardening throughout the year that is free information to the community. Their resources can give you tips on not only growing your own produce, but can help solve lots of other plant-related questions as well. You can sign up for their complimentary newsletter or research them online. A backyard garden does not have to be extravagant to produce food – some plants do just fine in pots and with a little research, I know your family can be successful!

We have been gardening with our kids for two years now year-round and our family has been successful growing broccoli, cucumbers, and a

important for both you and your kids.

• Walk to the library or to school.

• Play freeze-tag or hide and go seek in your backyard.

variety of tomatoes, green peppers, banana peppers, lettuce and eggplant here in Florida.

And speaking of vegetables, they pack a lot of nutrients into a small amount of calories. Even if you don’t grow them yourselves, try to get more veggies in your family meals. Allow kids to pick out vegetables at the store to increase their chances of trying them at home. Follow these tips to get your family in the green-zone: • Try crunchy vegetables instead of chips with your favorite low-fat salad dressing for dipping.

•

Grill colorful

• Plan for a family walk in the park or at the beach on weekends.

• Play basketball or toss the football with your kids.

• Take a hike and discover nature while getting some fresh air.

• Do yoga with your kids after dinner.

• Take the family out for a Sunday afternoon bike ride.

• Get Fido moving too! Take the dog for a walk

after school.

• Play one-on-one soccer with your child, or make small teams so the whole family can play.

• Have a jump rope competition in your driveway – see how many you and your child can do in 30 seconds.

References: University of Florida Gardening: www.gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/mastergardener; Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics; Kids Eat Right. j Aurea Thompson Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Nutrition Wolfson Children’s Hospital

“Good health is not something we can buy.

However, it can be an extremely valuable savings account.”

– Anne Wilson Schaef

vegetable kabobs including tomatoes, eggplant, green and red peppers, mushrooms and onions.

Baste and season them with herbs, then grill for about 10 to 15 minutes.

• Add color to salads with baby carrots, grape tomatoes, spinach leaves or mandarin oranges.

We take the Fear out of Dentistry!

Did you know

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• Try veggies on pizza – broccoli, spinach, green peppers, tomatoes, mushrooms and zucchini all make great toppers.

Don’t let this be you!

• Keep cut vegetables handy for quick midafternoon snacks, side dishes, or lunch box additions.

Let us help you ease your fears and take care of your smile! At Carlson Dental Group, we offer different levels of sedation allowing you to relax or even snooze!

• Add veggies to a sandwich – slice peppers, cucumbers and tomato as sandwich fillings.

• Top a baked potato with beans and salsa or broccoli and cheese.

• Add veggies to a breakfast omelet – add broccoli, squash, carrots, peppers, tomatoes and mushrooms for a hearty meal.

Lean It’s important to be a role model for your children when it comes to eating right and exercising.

Don’t expect your kids to be active if they see you on the couch. Regular daily exercise is

Page 6 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2015

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health & safety

Kid-friendly Eating for the New Year R

emember resolutions are easy. Keeping them is hard. Especially in nutrition. Keep in mind that experts agree that gradual, improved lifestyle changes yields better results than any do-it-quick exercise or dieting plan. Here are some tips from editors at “Eating Well” magazine: 1. Stock Up What you stock your kitchen with will influence your children’s food choices. Leave high-fat, salty and sugary snacks off your grocery list. Instead, fill your cart with fruits and vegetables, particularly portable ones like apples, bananas and carrots. Other healthful snacks include low-fat yogurt, natural peanut butter and celery, and whole-grain crackers and low-fat cheese. Choose water or milk over soda.

5. Fill Up With Fiber Few kids crave a fiber-rich meal. But fiber is filling and when combined with drinking plenty of water, helps prevent constipation. A high-fiber food has 5 grams or more of fiber per serving and a “good” source of fiber is one that provides 2.5 to 4.9 grams per serving. Some fiber-friendly foods include cooked navy beans (9.6 grams of fiber for ½ cup), a medium baked sweet potato with skin (3.8 grams) and bran flakes (5.3 grams).

6. Choose Whole Grains Studies indicate that eating whole grains reduces your long-term risk of cancer and heart disease.

On average, most school-age children need 6 to 8 ounces of grains a day and active teens may need as many as 9 or 10 ounces. (A slice of 2. Get the Family Involved bread, a half-cup of cooked rice, pasta or oatmeal Allow your kids to participate in the grocery are examples of 1 ounce.) At least half of those shopping and encourage them to choose healthy servings should come from whole grains. The snacks. This will increase the likelihood that they other half can come from enriched (e.g., refined will eat these snacks instead of less healthy ones. or “white”) grains. Good whole-grain sources include whole-grain cereals, brown rice, whole3. Kick up the Calcium grain breads and whole-wheat pastas There are creative tactics you can employ to make sure your child is getting plenty of calcium. 7. Serve Single Portions Add low-fat cheese to meals and snacks: put Serve single portions and your kids will be less Cheddar in an omelet; add a slice of cheese to likely to overeat. Avoid letting the kids take an sandwiches; create mini pizzas by topping entire bag of chips or a container of ice cream to whole-wheat English muffins with pizza sauce the couch; instead, dish out individual portions in and part-skim mozzarella; make grilled cheese the kitchen first. Or, if you cook large batches of sandwiches appealing by using cookie cutters to food and store the leftovers, separate them into create fun shapes. During childhood and smaller portions before you put them in the fridge adolescence, the body uses calcium to build or freezer. This way, your kids can automatically strong bones – a process that’s all but complete grab a single portion. Teach your kids what a by the end of the teen years. More than 85 reasonable portion size is. A serving of rice is percent of girls and 60 percent of boys aged 9 to about the same size as an ice cream scoop 18 fail to get the recommended 1,300 milligrams (approximately ½ cup), so let your child use the of calcium per day (kids aged 4 to 8 years old scoop to serve rice at dinner. A piece of meat need 800 mg; toddlers aged 1 to 2 years need should be about the size of a deck of cards, so 500 mg). The 2005 Dietary Guidelines recomsee how that chicken breast measures up. mend 2 cups of low-fat or nonfat milk or dairy products per day for children 2 to 8 years.

8. Keep Fat Low Children under 2 need a certain amount of fat in 4. Delight with Dips their diets to help the brain and nervous system Diving vegetables and fruits into yummy dips develop correctly. Fat also aids in the absorption makes lunch more fun. Offer apple slices with a of some vitamins: vitamins A, D, E and K can only half cup of low-fat vanilla yogurt; serve carrot be absorbed if there’s some fat in the diet. While sticks with a side of hummus. By learning to love toddlers can drink richer whole or 2% milk, older fruits and vegetables while they are young, kids kids (2+) should drink low-fat or skim milk, along will develop food preferences that can help lower with the rest of the family. Additionally, children their risk of heart disease, diabetes and some ages 2 to 3 should eat a varied diet with about 30 cancers later in life. A produce-rich diet is also to 35 percent of calories coming from fat. For naturally lower in calories and fat and higher in ages 4 to 18 years, the recommendations vitamins and minerals. According to the latest decrease to 25 to 35 percent of calories from fat. recommendations from the USDA, kids ages 2 to The major sources of saturated fat and choles3 should have 1 cup each of fruit and vegetables terol in children’s diets are full-fat milk and each day. Kids ages 4 to 8 should have 1½ cups cheese and fatty meats. To check the intake, offer of fruit and 1½ cups of vegetables; and kids 9 to low-fat dairy and lean cuts of meat in appropriate 12 need 1½ cups of fruit and 2 to 2½ cups of portion sizes, as well as fruit, vegetables and vegetables. whole grains, which are naturally low in fat.

Page 7 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2015

9. Balance Calories with Exercise Kids should get 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous play or physical activity each day.

Limiting their “screen time” (i.e., watching TV, playing video games, e-mailing and instantmessaging) to two hours each day will help accomplish this goal. The number of “discretionary calories” (those spent on “extras” once nutrient needs are met) varies greatly. Kids who are active have a discretionary-calorie allowance of about 200 to 500 calories a day, whereas sedentary kids only have 100 to 150 – about the amount in an 8-ounce juice box or a handful of pretzels.

10. Limit Sugar-sweetened Beverages and Foods A little sugar, particularly if it’s in a food that provides other important nutrients, is fine. For example, a tiny bit of added sugar on wholegrain cereal can enhance the taste and encourage kids to eat it. But the average teen consumes about twice as much sugar as recommended and sugary foods and beverages tend to be high in calories and low in nutrients. Offer healthier choices, such as fruit, which is naturally sweet.

Bonus Question: How can I get my kids to try new foods?

First, what not to do: bribe, threaten or nag.

“Contingency strategies,” such as promising that if “finish your peas, then you can watch television,” tend to reinforce a child’s negative associations with foods. Keep your encouragement positive.

Make lots of different healthy choices available.

Nutrition experts frequently advise parents to expose young children to lots of different tastes: it teaches them to accept a variety of healthy foods. If your child hates something the first time he tries it, don’t give up. Research shows that it can take as many as 10 to 15 tastes before a child will learn to appreciate a new flavor. But the most effective strategies for getting your kids to eat well is to practice what you preach. Research conducted by Jennifer Orlet Fisher, Ph.D., one of the foremost experts on eating behavior, shows that young children learn to prefer foods that are familiar and ones presented as acceptable in their homes. Bottom line: The best way to teach someone that healthy foods are important (and delicious) is to enjoy them yourself. j

Your Children Are First With Us! Dr Mahajan and her team truly strive to put your children and their needs first! We recognize that children are individuals with unique needs and temperaments.

With 13 years in Jacksonville, we have the experience and compassion to give each child a positive dental experience as well as quality care. Our goal is to provide a fun and gentle dental home for your child. Give us a call today to start on your child’s new dental adventure!

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health & safety

Nemours Seeking Children with Asthma for Clinical Trials

A

sthma is a chronic disease of the lungs causing restricted breathing. Symptoms include but are not limited to shortness of breath, wheezing, tightness in the chest and coughing, especially at night. For children with asthma, going to a friend’s house, to a soccer game or to school can be difficult at best. Seemingly harmless access to deodorizers, carpet fumes or pet dander, among other things, can cause an attack in a child who has asthma. Asthma is one of the main illnesses causing children to miss school. According to the Centers for Disease Control, the rate of childhood asthma has more than doubled since 1980.

out the best way to decrease the amount of medication asthma patients take. The second is to offer simpler ways for busy families to participate and understand information provided to them.

The study provides participating families with an Ipad to enable them to answer questions about their kids’ lung function and to attend virtual doctor’s visits via FaceTime. “Families are really busy so they only come into the clinic at the beginning of the study to get the equipment.

When it’s over, they can keep the Ipad,” Dr. Blake said. “These studies are trying to find the best way to treat kids with asthma. We just need families to participate.”

many African-American kids as possible is important because their asthma symptoms tend to be more severe, and we need to find the best treatments,” Dr. Blake said.

The study lasts a little over a year with approximately 15 study visits and 10 scheduled telephone calls with a nurse coordinator. In addition to different medications, the study will also include questionnaires, breathing tests and height measurements.

3. Step-Up Yellow Zone Inhaled Corticosteroids to Prevent Exacerbations (STICS) focuses on asthma patients from ages 5 through 11 who have suffered at least one serious asthma attack in the Dr. Kathryn Blake, PharmD, a Principal Research past year. Goals of the study are to keep kids off Scientist at Nemours Children’s Clinic in Jacksonthe drug prednisone and to treat their asthma so ville, is currently running four clinical trials aimed 2. Best African American Response to Asthma it does not worsen. at discovering better ways to treat these children. Drugs (BARD) targets African- American kids from The year-long study is comprised of eight study She is seeking local families with children who ages 5 to 17 who have asthma and take a visits and six short study telephone calls. The have asthma to participate in the trials. controller medication. Offered by Nemours, the asthma study team works with families more trial seeks to find the best asthma treatment for closely if the patient’s asthma worsens. InformaThe trials include: African American kids who still have asthma tion collected for the trial includes urine samples, 1. Step Down Study/Use of Mobile Devices & the problems even though they currently take a low questionnaires, blood tests, nasal mucus Internet to Streamline an Asthma Clinical Trial is dose of inhaled steroid. The study seeks to find samples, breathing tests and more. also known as “the asthma Ipad study,” said Dr. out if African -American kids respond differently Blake. This trial has two goals. The first is to find to various asthma medications. “Studying as 4. Steroids in Eosinophil Negative Asthma (SIENA)

Page 8 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2015

is a study targeting kids ranging in age from 12 to 17. The goal of the study is to determine if teens should take an asthma controller medication based on the type of inflammatory cells (cells that can aggravate asthma symptoms) present in their airway.

The study has two parts: a beginning period of four to six weeks to assess a child’s asthma control and then treatment for 36 weeks. The entire study takes about a year and consists of between nine and 11 study visits, lasting from one to three hours. The trial also includes eight scheduled telephone calls. Testing includes breathing tests, coughing up sputum to see the cells in the airways, urine testing, medical history, physical examination, questionnaires, and peak flow/e-diary.

To find out more about participating in the ongoing clinical trials, families can call (800) 354-5690 or (904) 697-3925. Information is also available in the clinical trials section of the Nemours web site at http://www.nemours.org/ pediatric-research.html or by e-mailing AsthmaResearch@nemours.org. j

Things to Do

2015 Running of the Seahorses January 24, 8:30am to 11am Come support the Seabreeze Elementary PTA by running or walking in the third annual Running of the Seahorses on Saturday, January 24, New Year’s Rockin’ 5K 2015. The run is on the Beach followed by January 3, 8:30am activities on the lawn of the SeaWalk Pavilion.

Annual New Year’s Rockin’ 5K at Academy Walkers and runners of all ages are encouraged Sports. There will be music, games, custom to participate. All proceeds from this event will medals and more. Registration fees range from go to support the Seabreeze Elementary School $30 to $35. Course starts and ends at Academy PTA. There are two races, a 5km run and a Sports. Ultimate Racing Inc / Academy Sports, 2.5km run. Both are run entirely on the beach 11901 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225 / and both start and finish by the end of the www.ultimateracinginc.com boardwalk to the Seawalk Pavilion. The 2.5km runs half of the 5km course and both are run runDisney Kids Races together. Registration fees range from $20 to January 8 – 10 $35. Seabreeze Elementary School / 904-403Children 13 and under are invited to participate 0210 / Sea Walk Pavilion, 11 1st St N, Jacksonin the runDisney Kids Races taking place at the ville Beach, FL 32250 ESPN Wide World of Sports Track & Field Complex on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday Pirate 5K during the Walt Disney World® Marathon January 31, 8am to 11am Weekend. There will be Kids’ Dashes, the The Pirate 5K at Palencia in North Saint Mickey Mile and a Diaper Dash for crawlers.

Augustine offers an event for racers, families, Space is limited. Parents are allowed to run with runners, and walkers. All participants will their children. The event will follow a rolling receive a t-shirt and finisher medal. A One-Mile start beginning with the 100m dash followed by Family Fun Run will take place immediately the 200m, 400m and Diaper Dash. The One Mile after the 5K. All participants will receive a t-shirt will have a separate start location and time. All and finisher medal for the fun run as well. The distances will utilize the same finish location. event will take place on Saturday, January 31, Participants receive runDisney Kids Races 2015. 5k fees start at $25, and the fun run T-shirt, Finisher medallion, and post-race starts at $10. refreshments. Entry fees range from $20 to Palencia Club / 904-238-8801 / 600 Palencia $35. Run Disney / ESPN Wide World of Sports Club Dr., St. Augustine, FL 32095 / www.

Track & Field Complex, 710 South Victory Way thepirate5k.com Kissimmee, FL 34747 / www.rundisney.com Visit Jax4Kids.com for more event listings.

Health Events

!

attention

BACK PAIN SUFFERERS! If you are between 18 and 75 years old and have a history of chronic low back pain, you may be eligible to participate in a clinical research study being conducted by Jacksonville Center for Clinical Research

SHARE THE FUN! TAKE A PHOTO UPLOAD IT

VIa Instagram, Facebook or Twitter

TAG IT

#jax4kidsFamilyFun

evaluating an investigational medication for back pain.

Study participants will receive study-related medication and study-related medical

One winner will be drawn monthly to receive four one day passes to Adventure Landing Shipwreck Island Waterpark!

evaluations at no charge. Compensation for time and travel is available for qualified participants.

Insurance IS NOT required.

For additional information about the benefits and risks of the study, please contact us: JACKSONVILLE CENTER FOR CLINICAL RESEARCH

(904) 730-0166

www.jaxresearch.com

Page 9 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2015

FOLLOW US @jax4kids

@aljaxbeach @adventurelandingjaxbeach

health & safety

Stress, Gut and Also the Brain!

A

s we are starting a new year trying to shed all the toxins and negative thoughts of the past year, there is a growing field of knowledge that our mental health is connected to our gut health. And this relationship between gut and brain may be the key to solving one of medicine’s most pressing—and perplexing—mysteries: autism.

Autism is a complex spectrum of disorders that share three classic features: impaired communication, poor social engagement and repetitive behaviors. At one end of the spectrum are people who are socially awkward, but, in many cases, incredibly bright. At the other extreme are individuals with severe mental disabilities and behavioral problems. Nearly 60 years after the disorder was first identified, the number of cases has surged. The United Nations estimates that up to 70 million worldwide fall in the autism spectrum.

therapy, but new animal studies suggest that treatment may one day come in the form of a probiotic – live, “friendly” bacteria like those found in yogurt. If you help heal the gastrointestinal problem, you can treat the behavioral symptoms.

Gastrointestinal problems are autistic children’s most common health complaint. Although estimates vary widely, some studies have concluded that up to 90 percent of autistic children suffer from tummy troubles.

According to the CDC, they’re more than 3.5 times more likely to experience chronic diarrhea and constipation than their normally developing peers. These symptoms may even worsen with the holiday season due to excessive exposure to sugar and refined carbohydrates. The sugar-yeast connection has been proven for many years.

Increasing candida in the gut and imbalanced microbiome in the gut may result in worsening behavioral problems. Fermented and pickled foods along with a broad spectrum of “friendly bacteria” help shield from environmental toxins.

There is no known cause or cure, but scientists have found promising clues in the gut. Research has revealed striking differences in the trillions of bacteria – collectively known as the microbiome Arizona State University researchers analyzing – in the intestines of autistic and healthy children. the gut bacteria in fecal samples obtained from autistic and normally developing children found Autism is treated primarily through behavioral that autistic participants had fewer types of

Creating Safer Passwords Passwords provide the first line of defense against unauthorized access to your computer.

The stronger your password, the more protected your computer will be from hackers and malicious software.

What makes a password strong (or weak)?

A strong password: • Is at least eight characters long.

• Does not contain your user name, real name, or company name.

• Does not contain a complete word.

• Is significantly different from previous passwords.

• Contains characters from each of the following four categories: Uppercase letters: A, B, C Lowercase letters: a, b, c Numbers: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 Symbols found on the keyboard (all keyboard characters not defined as letters or numerals) and spaces: ` ~ ! @ # $ % ^ & * ()_-+={}[]\|:;“‘<>,.?/ A password might meet all the criteria above and still be a weak password. For example, Hello2U! meets all the criteria for a strong password listed above, but is still weak because it contains a complete word. H3ll0 2 U! is a stronger alternative because it replaces some of the letters in the

complete word with numbers and also includes spaces.

Help yourself remember your strong password by following these tips: • Create an acronym from an easy-toremember piece of information. For example, pick a phrase that is meaningful to you, such as My son’s birthday is 12 December, 2004.

Using that phrase as your guide, you might use Msbi12/Dec,4 for your password.

• Substitute numbers, symbols, and misspellings for letters or words in an easyto-remember phrase. For example, My son’s birthday is 12 December, 2004 could become Mi$un’s Brthd8iz 12124 (it’s OK to use spaces in your password).

• Relate your password to a favorite hobby or sport. For example, I love to play badminton could become ILuv2PlayB@dm1nt()n.

If you feel you must write down your password in order to remember it, make sure you don’t label it as your password, and keep it in a safe place.

Source: windows.microsoft.com j

Page 10 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2015

bacteria thus making the gut more susceptible to attack from disease-causing pathogens. Other studies have found striking differences in the types and abundance of gut bacteria in autistic versus healthy patients. Unfortunately, according to the animal studies, a probiotic may only help the subset of autistic patients who experience GI problems.

For autistic patients and their families, however, even a supplemental therapy is a huge step forward. It’s really impactful, this notion that by changing the bacteria, we could ameliorate what’s often considered an intractable disorder.

A slow 30-day “cleanse” four times a year with a daily probiotic (“friendly bacteria”) supplement for our patients is strongly recommended. j Aylin Ozdemir, MD, FAAP, ABIHM Pediatric Associates of Jacksonville www.doctor0jax.com 1102 A1A North, Unit 104, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 • 904-273-6533 4745 Sutton Park Court, Suite 801, Jacksonville, FL 32224 • 904-743-2100 1633 Race Track Road, Suite 103, Jacksonville, FL 32259 • 904-287-7000

Did You Know?

MOST COMMON PASSWORDS Tech experts from websites such as boston.com, Slate and Computer Hope agree that everyone should avoid using the passwords that most often crop up on top 10 lists.

1. password 2. 123456 3. qwerty 4. iloveyou 5. monkey 6. ABC123 7. letmein 8. password1 9. 123123 10. welcome

health & safety

Riding into the New Year B

ikes make memorable gifts and are a great way for kids to have fun, socialize with their peers and stay healthy. Riding a bike has been shown to improve cardiovascular endurance and balance, decrease risk of obesity, and boost their self-confidence. However, parents and the child need to remember that a bike is not a toy, it is actually a vehicle. Here are some tips to help children stay safe while riding their favorite present:

• CHECK EQUIPMENT: Before letting your child ride ensure that the bike’s tires are fully inflated with air and check that the brakes are working properly.

• ENSURE THEY CAN BE SEEN: Whether riding in the morning or afternoon, do not assume drivers will see your child. Teach your children that just because they see a driver doesn’t mean the driver sees them. They should be wearing bright colors or neon clothing for best visibility – Wearing white has not been shown to make them more visible.

Instruct them to keep their eyes up and looking ahead and not down at the bike or at their friends riding around them.

• TEACH THEM APPROPRIATE ROAD AWARENESS: Before crossing a street they should look left, right, and then left again before proceeding. Obeying traffic signs, including red lights and stop signs, is a must!

Tell them to ride on the right side of the road with traffic and stay as far right as possible.

Make sure your child knows appropriate hand signals, which can be found under the “For Kids” tab at http://www.nhtsa.gov/Bicycles.

• SAFETY AT NIGHT: Limit riding after dark but if they must: ensure they wear reflective clothing and have light reflectors on the front and back of the bike. A head light on the helmet will also increase their visibility – Also, it is a law.

• ALWAYS WEAR A PROPERLY FITTED BICYCLE HELMET: Studies show wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of a head injury by 85 per cent. To protect your child’s brain, it is important that the helmet is properly fitted. www.safekids.org provides instructions and step-by-step videos on how to fit your child’s bike helmet.

• ADJUST THE BICYCLE TO FIT: When the child is sitting on the bike, the seat height should allow for a slight bend in the knee when the leg is fully extended. His or her feet should be able to touch the ground. Local bike shops can help you determine the proper seat height if you do not feel comfortable setting it yourself.

• NO SILLY RIDING: Do not allow children to carry objects in their arms while riding. These should be placed in a backpack or bicycle carrier.

• BE A LOOKOUT: Children who cannot understand or use traffic rules and hand signals should not ride alone nor on the road.

Keep these children on sidewalks and parents be aware of your surroundings so you can alert them to cars, potholes, dogs, and other roadblocks that may cause a crash.

Riding a bike can open many opportunities for your child to explore their neighborhood, make friends, and stay healthy. So ride into the New Year safely and for family fun! j Cara Heaton, PT, DPT Pediatric Physical Therapist, Brooks Rehabilitation cara.heaton@brooksrehab.org Sharon DiFino, SLP Assistant Professor of Communication Sciences Disorders, Jacksonville University Speech Language Pathologist, Brooks Rehabilitation sharon.difino@brooksrehab.org

“He who has health, has hope; and he who has hope, has everything.”

– Thomas Carlyle Page 11 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2015

Parents welcome anytime Keypad entry & surveillance Formula, meals & snacks included

Serving families since 2004 FREE Full Day VPK 5 Star Rated Infant Toddler Preschool After School

health & safety

Circus-inspired Fitness Ideas T

he circus performers at Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey are also athletes who need to be in top physical condition, making them ideal role models who can encourage young people to be active and fit. Through the CircusFit Program, the Ringling Bros. acrobats, clowns, high wire and trapeze artists, and many of our other performer show youth an action-packed approach to health and fitness. Ringling Bros. CircusFit Program provides an easy-to-follow, flexible structure. Each CircusFit Lesson takes about 20 minutes and lesson tools can be made with readily available materials, such as plastic drink bottles or jump ropes. The CircusFit Program is structured as five learning modules. Use the modules sequentially, or pick and choose individual lessons. CircusFit Lessons combine educational health and science information with physical movement and exercise so that you can integrate fitness into almost any curriculum or time frame.

MODULE 1: FUNdamentals & Flexibility The lessons in this module explain the importance of warming up, stretching and drinking plenty of water as part of a basic fitness routine.

MODULE 2: Powerful Fun! This module’s lessons introduce some safe and fun ways to build muscle strength and teach children how to identify their major muscle groups. In addition to strength building, this module also encourages students to track their

eating habits and introduces good- nutrition guidelines from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

MODULE 3: Heart-Pounding Action!

Students learn how to do the CircusFit Jump Dance, jump rope and more. While they are hopping and jumping, students also receive information about the importance of strengthening their heart and lungs, the role of endorphins and the importance of being active.

MODULE 4: From Workout to WOW! Four basic circus skills are introduced in this module, allowing students the opportunity to develop coordination, concentration and discipline as they learn and practice jumping rope, hoop twirling, balancing and juggling.

MODULE 5: Ladies and Gentlemen This module prepares students to show off their CircusFit skills by having them put on a performance for family and friends. A virtual circus trunk of performance ideas is provided, as well as various onstage and offstage job descriptions for students’ roles.

Go to www.circusfit.com for details about using the program.

TWELVE TIPS FOR CIRCUS-FIT 1. Schedule a regular time throughout the

Page 12 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2015

week for physical activity.

2. Take turns selecting an activity for the family to do each week.

3. Explore the outdoors. Take your family hiking, camping or for a bike ride.

4. Plan a vacation around physical activity, such as whitewater rafting, snorkeling or hiking.

5. Create an original video of your family exercising.

6. Buy toys or equipment that promote physical activity.

7. Limit the time your children spend watching TV and using all electronic media.

8. Keep fresh fruit and vegetables washed, cutup, chilled and readily available for snacking.

9. Enroll your kids in an after-school program that involves physical activities such as dancing, soccer playing or learning karate.

10. Assign household chores to kids that involve physical activity, raking leaves, weeding a garden or walking the dog.

11. Quit the “clean plate club.” Allow your kids to stop eating when they feel they have had enough.

12. Be a good role model for your kids by following these guidelines yourself. j

Sources: Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Xtreme and CircusFit websites.

What: Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents Circus Extreme Where: Jacksonville Memorial Arena, 300 A. Philip Randolph Blvd.

When: • 7:30pm Thursday, Jan. 15 • 7:30pm Friday, Jan. 16 • 11:30am, 3:30pm, 7:30pm Saturday, Jan. 17 • 1pm, 5pm Sunday, Jan.18 • 7:30pm Thursday, Jan. 15 • 7:30pm Friday Jan. 16 • 11:30pm, 3:30pm, 7:30pm Saturday, Jan. 17 • 1pm, 5pm Sunday, Jan. 18 Cost: Prices range from $15 to $60 depending on show times and location of seats.

Save $5 on tickets using the code JX4KDS when purchasing online at ticketmaster.com, by calling 1-800-745-3000 or at the box office. Not valid on opening night and Saturday 3:30 performances.

Dates, times and locations are accurate at time of publication; courses listed in this guide are subject to change.

Visit www.duvalschools.org/ParentAcademy to verify and register.

2015 Spring Course Catalog 2015 Spring Course Catalog

Parenting & Parenting Advocacy & Advocacy Personal & Personal Individual Growth & Individual Growth Page 13 â&#x20AC;˘ Jax4Kids.com â&#x20AC;˘ JANUARY 2015

Student Achievement Student Achievement

The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a family resource designed for parents, caregivers, and community members.

2015 Spring Schedule (All Parent Academy courses are free of charge) Duval County Public Schools’ (DCPS) Parent Academy courses are categorized into three strands: Student Achievement: Workshops and activities provide parents and caregivers with tools to promote students’ academic achievement and navigate the school system.

Parenting & Advocacy: Workshops and activities provide tools to more effectively enhance parenting, advocacy and leadership skills.

Personal & Individual Growth: Workshops and activities provide tools for supporting the personal and professional growth of parents and caregivers.

To learn more or register online go to: www.duvalschools.org/ParentAcademy

Student Achievement

FINANCIAL AID NIGHTS (CONTINUED) Date

Location

Time

01/15/15

Duval Charter at Baymeadows 7510 Baymeadows Way Jacksonville, FL 32256

6:30 - 8:00 p.m.

01/20/15

Samuel W. Wolfson High School 7000 Powers Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32217

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

01/22/15

Douglas Anderson School of the Arts 2445 San Diego Road Jacksonville, FL 32207

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

COLLEGE 911

01/22/15

Grand Park Education Center 2335 West 18th Street Jacksonville, FL 32209

8:00 - 9:30 a.m.

Open vs. Closed Enrollment Schools, Universities vs. Colleges, and Emergency College Application Assistance

01/22/15

Stanton College Preparatory School 1149 West 13th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209

6:45 - 8:15 p.m.

01/27/15

Sandalwood High School 2750 John Prom Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246

5:30 - 7:00 p.m.

01/27/15

USO (Military Parents) 2560 Mayport Road, Atlantic Beach, FL, 32233

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

01/27/15

Jean Ribault High School 3701 Winton Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32208

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

01/29/15

Englewood High School 4412 Barnes Road, Jacksonville, FL 32207

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

02/02/15

Baldwin Middle-Senior High School 291 Mill Street W., Baldwin, FL 32234

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

02/03/15

Robert E. Lee High School 1200 S. McDuff Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32205

6:30 - 8:00 p.m.

02/05/15

Mandarin High School 4831 Greenland Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

02/19/15

Andrew Jackson High School 3816 N. Main Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206

5:00 - 6:30 p.m.

CHILDREN ARE ALWAYS LEARNING! (LEARNING ON THE GO) Explore ways to enhance children’s development by acquiring effective teaching and nurturing skills from birth to age five. Childcare provided ages 0-10.

Date

Location

Time

04/22/15

Early Learning Coalition of Duval 8301 Cypress Plaza Drive, Room 201 Jacksonville, FL 32256

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Date

Location

Time

04/07/15

Terry Parker High School 7301 Parker School Road, Jacksonville, FL 32211

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

EVERYDAY LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES Focuses on the importance of play and how children learn while playing.

Childcare provided ages 0-10.

Date

Location

Time

05/06/15

Early Learning Coalition of Duval 8301 Cypress Plaza Drive, Room 201 Jacksonville, FL 32256

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

FINANCIAL AID NIGHTS Provides everything there is to know about state and federal financial aid programs.

Date

Location

Time

01/06/15

Paxon School for Advanced Studies 3239 Norman E. Thagard Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32254

5:30 - 7:00 p.m.

01/08/15

Frank H. Peterson Academy 7450 Wilson Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32210

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

01/08/15

A. Philip Randolph Academy 1157 Golfair Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32209

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

01/08/15

William M. Raines High School 3663 Raines Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32209

6:30 - 8:00 p.m.

01/13/15

Duncan Fletcher High School 700 Seagate Avenue, Neptune Beach, FL 32266

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Page 14 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2015

To learn more or register online go to: www.duvalschools.org/ParentAcademy For additional registration options: E-mail ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org or call the Department of Family and Community Engagement (FACE) at 904.390.2960

HOMEWORK SUCCESS: FREE LIBRARY RESOURCES Learn how to navigate the library’s catalog and website to help children succeed.

Sign-up for a chance to win a door prize!

Date

Location

Time

02/11/15

Webb Wesconnett Regional Library, E-Classroom 6887 103rd Street, Jacksonville, FL 32210

7:00 - 8:30 p.m.

02/12/15

South Mandarin Branch Library, E-Classroom 12125 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32223

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

02/18/15

Pablo Creek Regional Library, E-Classroom 13295 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

02/19/15

Dallas Graham Branch Library, Community Room 2304 Myrtle Ave. N., Jacksonville, FL 32209

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

STORY TIME (ESOL) Read with your baby!

Date

Location

Time

01/15/15, 01/30/15, 02/19/15, 02/27/15, 03/12/15, 03/27/15, 04/16/15, 04/24/15, 05/21/15

Center for Language and Culture 7401 Old Kings road South, Jacksonville, FL 32217 On the campus of Kings Trail Elementary School

10:30 - 11:30 am

THE NEW FLORIDA ASSESSMENT: ELEMENTARY MATH AND READING

HOW IS YOUR SCHOOL PERFORMING? Learn how to access school performance and basic data for Duval County Public Schools

Date

Location

Time

03/26/15

Holiday Hill Elementary School 6900 Altama Road, Jacksonville, FL 32216

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Learn how to assist Elementary School Students on the new assessment

Date

Location

Time

02/18/15

Andrew Robinson Elementary 101 West 12th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

02/24/15

Woodland Acres Elementary School 328 North Bowlan Street, Jacksonville, FL 32211

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

MATRICULATION: WHAT’S NEXT AFTER COLLEGE ACCEPTANCE? Learn next steps following college acceptance

THE NEW FLORIDA ASSESSMENT: HIGH SCHOOL MATH AND READING

Date

Location

Time

03/12/15

Terry Parker High School 7301 Parker School Road, Jacksonville, FL 32211

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

PREVENTING SUMMER READING LOSS Learn and understand the importance of summer learning

Date

Location

Time

05/20/15

S.A. Hull Elementary School 7528 Hull Street, Jacksonville, FL 32219

3:00 - 4:30 p.m.

PRIORITIZING MILESTONES IN HIGH SCHOOL Learn how to set goals to be successful throughout High School and beyond

Date

Location

Time

01/14/15

First Coast High School 590 Duval Station Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

02/09/15

Westside High School 5530 Firestone Road, Jacksonville, FL 32244

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

03/02/15

Ribault High School 3701 Winton Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32208

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

05/13/15

Englewood High School 4412 Barnes Road, Jacksonville, FL 32207

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Learn how to assist High School Students on the new assessment

Date

Location

Time

01/22/15

Westside High School 5530 Firestone Road, Jacksonville, FL 32244

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

02/03/15

Englewood High School 4412 Barnes Road, Jacksonville, FL 32207

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

02/05/15

Ribault High School 3701 Winton Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32208

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

02/10/15

First Coast High 590 Duval Station Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

02/26/15

First Baptist Church of Oakland 1025 Jessie Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

THE NEW FLORIDA ASSESSMENT: MIDDLE SCHOOL MATH AND READING Learn how to assist Middle School Students on the new assessment

Date

Location

Time

02/10/15

Lavilla Middle School 501 North Davis Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

02/26/15

Twin Lakes Middle School 8050 Point Meadows Dr., Jacksonville, FL 32256

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

THE ONE-STOP SHOP TO ACADEMIC SUCCESS

SCHOLARSHIPS AND COLLEGE APPLICATIONS Get examples of essays, personal statements, letters of recommendation, deadlines, and where to search for money.

Date

Location

Time

02/10/15

Englewood High School 4412 Barnes Road, Jacksonville, FL 32207

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

SCHOOL CHOICE INFORMATION SESSION Get information about magnets, special transfers, and other school options, while being able to ask questions.

Navigate the web to academic success in the 5 major subject areas, test prep, college entrance exams, career building, genealogical research and more

Date

Location

Time

02/05/15

Westside High School 5530 Firestone Road, Jacksonville, FL 32244

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

02/19/15

Ribault High School 3701 Winton Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32208

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

03/04/15

Jacksonville Heights Elementary 7750 Tempest Street, Jacksonville, FL 32244

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Date

Location

Time

VPK OPEN HOUSE

01/22/15, 02/05/15, 02/19/15, 04/16/15

Duval County Public Schools 1701 Prudential Drive, Cline Auditorium

6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Learn more about VPK at RV Daniels; registration available.

Page 15 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2015

Date

Location

Time

05/15/15

RV Daniels Elementary School 1951 West 15th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209

9:00 - 11:00 a.m.

TRANSITIONING TO HIGH SCHOOL: WHAT EVERY 8TH GRADE PARENT NEEDS TO KNOW

ATTENDANCE AND ACADEMICS: A PERFECT RELATIONSHIP

Information about high school graduation requirements, acceleration programs, career awareness and planning, and how assessments will impact high school scheduling

Review data associated with attendance rates, the statutes, and its impact on student achievement

Date

Location

Time

Date

Location

Time

01/06/15

Northwestern Middle School 2100 W. 45th St., Jacksonville, FL 32209

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

03/02/15

Brentwood Elementary School 3750 Springfield Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32206

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

01/08/15

Bridge to Success at JWJ ACT Center 1840 W. 9th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

05/20/15

Frank H. Peterson Academy 7450 Wilson Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32210

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

01/08/15

LaVilla School of the Arts 501 North Davis St., Jacksonville, FL 32202

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

BREAKFAST LEARNING SERIES

01/12/15

Alfred duPont Middle School 2710 duPont Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32217

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Shares helpful information while providing a networking opportunity to individuals raising children and professionals who help parents

01/13/15

Mattie V. Rutherford Alternative Education Center 1514 Hubbard Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206

2:30 - 4:00 p.m.

01/13/15

Mandarin Middle School 5100 Hood Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

01/13/15

The Leadership Schools at Eugene J. Butler School 900 Acorn Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

01/14/15

Landmark Middle School 101 Kernan Blvd. North, Jacksonville, FL 32225

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

01/14/15

Southside Middle School 2948 Knights Lane East, Jacksonville, FL 32216

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

01/15/15

Darnell-Cookman Middle/High School 1701 North Davis Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209

5:30 - 7:00 p.m.

Date

Location

Time

01/21/15

Edward Waters College – Schell Sweet Community Resource Center, Jacksonville, FL 32209

8:30 - 10:30 a.m.

BULLYING IN THE 21ST CENTURY This course will review the warning signs and descriptions of behavior associated with bullying for both the victim and the bully and strategies that children can use when faced with a bully.

Date

Location

Time

02/12/15

MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation 1096 West 6th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

02/21/15

Bethel Baptist Institutional Church 215 Bethel Baptist Church, Jacksonville, FL 32202

10:00 - 12:00 p.m.

03/11/15

Kirby Smith Middle School 2034 Hubbard Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

USING TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMS TO BOOST STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT Learn the best utilization of the IReady and Achieve 3000 online programs to boost student achievement at home

Date

Location

Time

01/08/15

Thomas Jefferson Elementary School 8233 Nevada Street, Jacksonville, FL 32220

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

05/15/15

RV Daniels Elementary School 1951 W. 15th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

DEALING WITH BUSY AND DIFFICULT TIMES Learn how stress can affect the family, and how to handle stress and family conflict.

(Childcare provided; ages 0-10)

Date

Location

Time

05/13/15

Early Learning Coalition of Duval 8301 Cypress Plaza Drive, Room 201 Jacksonville, FL 32256

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

DIFFERENT ROLES OF PARENTS (DADS ARE DIFFERENT)

WHAT IS AN IEP AND WHAT IS MTSS/RTI? Provides an overview explaining the purpose of an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) for a child receiving Exceptional Student Education services

Date

Location

Time

03/10/15, 04/14/15, 05/12/15

Exceptional Education & Student Services 4124 Boulevard Center Dr., 4600 Building, Jacksonville, FL 32207

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Understand the father’s value in children’s lives (Childcare provided; ages 0-10)

Date

Location

Time

03/11/15

Early Learning Coalition of Duval 8301 Cypress Plaza Drive, Room 201 Jacksonville, FL 32256

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

DISCOVER DUVAL SCHOOLS Have you always wanted to know more about Duval schools? Attend a Duval Schools tour to learn about some of the many great things happening in Duval schools! Refreshments are provided.

Parenting & Advocacy

Date

Program/Location

Time

ANGER MANAGEMENT AND CONFLICT RESOLUTION

01/14/15

STEM Academy North Shore Elementary School 5701 Silver Plz. Jacksonville, FL 32208

8:30 a.m. (meet at the school)

01/28/15

Exceptional School Education Mt. Herman Exceptional School 1741 Francis Street, Jacksonville, FL 32208

9:00 a.m. (meet at the school)

02/04/15

AICE/Cambridge Secondary 2 William M. Raines High School 3663 Raines Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32209

9:00 a.m. (meet at 1701 Prudential Drive, and take the bus to Raines)

02/11/15

Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Englewood High School 4412 Barnes Road, Jacksonville, FL 32207

9:00 a.m. (meet at the school)

Gain knowledge on how past learning can influence present behavior

Date

Location

Time

03/09/15

The Leadership Schools at Eugene J. Butler 900 Acorn Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

04/22/15

Ramona Elementary School 5540 Ramona Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32205

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

05/13/15

Woodland Acres Elementary School 328 North Bowlan Street, Jacksonville, FL 32211

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Page 16 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2015

DISCOVER DUVAL SCHOOLS (CONTINUED)

KEEPING MY CHILD HEALTHY (FUN WITH FOOD AND FITNESS)

Date

Program/Location

Time

02/18/15

Gifted and Academically Talented R. V. Daniels Elementary 1951 West 15th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209

9:00 a.m. (meet at meet at 1701 Prudential Drive, and take the bus to RV Daniels)

03/04/15

Information Technology Fort Caroline Middle School 3787 University Club Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32277

8:30 a.m. (meet at the school)

03/27/15

Science Academy St. Clair Evans Elementary School 5443 Moncrief Road, Jacksonville, FL 32209

9:00 a.m. (meet at the school)

04/01/15

Career Academies A. Phillip Randolph 1157 Golfair Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32209

9:00 a.m. (meet at the school)

04/15/15

Coastal Academies Mayport Elementary School 2753 Shangri – La Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32233

11:00 a.m. (meet at the school)

Museum Studies Ortega Elementary 4010 Baltic Street, Jacksonville, FL 32210

9:00 a.m. (meet at the school)

Dual Language Southside Middle School 2948 Knights Lane East, Jacksonville, FL 32216

9:00 a.m. (meet at 1701 Prudential Drive, and take the bus to Southside Middle)

IB Middle Years Programme Lake Shore Middle 2519 Bayview Road, Jacksonville, FL 32210

9:00 a.m. (meet at the school)

04/29/15

05/13/15

05/20/15

Help parents understand healthy eating on a budget and the need for physical activity.

(Childcare provided; ages 0-10)

Date

Location

Time

02/25/15

Early Learning Coalition of Duval 8301 Cypress Plaza Drive, Room 201 Jacksonville, FL 32256

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

POSITIVE BEHAVIOR SUPPORTS: CREATING THE FOUNDATIONS OF CHAMPions Describes the framework that all DCPS schools will utilize as its foundation for supporting positive behavioral outcomes.

Date

Location

Time

02/04/15

Jacksonville Heights Elementary 7750 Tempest Street, Jacksonville, FL 32244

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

03/12/15

MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation 1096 West 6th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

04/13/15

Venetia Elementary School 4300 Timuquana Road, Jacksonville, FL 32210

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

POSITIVE INTERACTIONS AND BEHAVIOR (EFFECTIVE DISCIPLINE) Understand the goal and meaning of effective discipline, while gaining age-appropriate discipline methods. (Childcare provided; ages 0-10)

Date

Location

Time

04/15/15

Early Learning Coalition of Duval 8301 Cypress Plaza Drive, Room 201 Jacksonville, FL 32256

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

RESOLVING CONFLICT: HOW TO COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR CHILD LIKE A CHAMP Gives a proactive approach in communication and developing positive decision-making skills and outcomes

Date

Location

Time

04/09/15

MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation 1096 West 6th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

04/13/15

Pine Forest Elementary 3929 Grant Road, Jacksonville, FL 32207

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

HOW TO BE AN ADVOCATE FOR YOUR CHILD IN ESE Provides resources to be supportive and advocate for children in ESE.

Date

Location

Time

03/31/15, 04/21/15, 05/19/15

Exceptional Education & Student Services 4124 Boulevard Center Drive, Bldg. 4600, Jacksonville, FL 32207

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

HOW TO HAVE A SUCCESSFUL FAMILY Learn and laugh while gaining tools for having a successful family.

Date

Location

Time

02/26/15

Alden Road Exp. Student Center 11780 Alden Road, Jacksonville, FL 32246

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

03/26/15

Ribault High School 3701 Winton Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32208

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

04/23/15

Westside High School 5530 Firestone Road, Jacksonville, FL 32244

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

I AM MY CHILD’S FIRST TEACHER (RESPONSIBLE PARENTING) Understand the special roles of parents in the family, and what parents can do to help their child develop (Childcare provided; ages 0-10)

Date

Location

Time

01/28/15

Early Learning Coalition of Duval 8301 Cypress Plaza Drive, Room 201 Jacksonville, FL 32256

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

IS MY CHILD ON TRACK? (AGES AND STAGES) Helps parents understand the basics of how children grow and develop, and how to support development (Childcare provided; ages 0-10)

Date

Location

Time

02/11/15

Early Learning Coalition of Duval 8301 Cypress Plaza Drive, Room 201 Jacksonville, FL 32256

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Page 17 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2015

TALKING & LISTENING WITH YOUR CHILD Helps parents understand how to communicate with children at various developmental levels, and how to pick up on non-verbal cues (Childcare provided; ages 0-10)

Date

Location

Time

04/01/15

Early Learning Coalition of Duval 8301 Cypress Plaza Drive, Room 201 Jacksonville, FL 32256

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

THE CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT This course will inform parents, students and guardians about the Student Code of Conduct and revisions to Elementary and Secondary Codes.

Date

Location

Time

02/11/15

Jacksonville Heights Elementary 7750 Tempest Street, Jacksonville, FL 32244

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

02/26/15

MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation 1096 West 6th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

To learn more or register online go to: www.duvalschools.org/ParentAcademy

For additional registration options: E-mail ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org or call the Department of Family and Community Engagement (FACE) at 904.390.2960

Personal & Individual Growth

MICROSOFT EXCEL Learn how to use Microsoft Excel 2013

BEING A BETTER YOU: IMPROVING YOUR QUALITY OF LIFE Explore ways to enhance your life using motivational, coping and healthy techniques in reaching personal or professional milestones.

Date

Location

Time

03/30/15

Ribault High School 3701 Winton Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32208

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

04/27/15

Westside High School 5530 Firestone Road, Jacksonville, FL 32244

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

05/21/15

First Baptist Church of Oakland 1025 Jessie Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

BOSOM BUDDIES Support group for women diagnosed with or at high-risk for breast cancer.

Date

Location

Time

Mondays (Excluding Holidays)

5644 Colcord Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32211

7:00 - 8:30 p.m.

BUILDING AND REBUILDING YOUR CREDIT This course will provide techniques on how to build your credit or increase your credit score.

Date

Location

Time

02/01/15, 03/01/15, 03/15/15, 04/05/15, 04/19/15, 05/03/15, 05/17/15

Microsoft Store, St. Johns Town Center 4791 River City Drive, Suite 113 Jacksonville, FL 32246

2:00 - 3:00 p.m.

MICROSOFT WORD 2013 BASICS Learn the features and functions of Word 2013, including new templates, smart touch controls and more.

Date

Location

Time

02/08/15, 03/08/15, 03/22/15, 04/12/15, 04/26/15, 05/10/15

Microsoft Store, St. Johns Town Center 4791 River City Drive, Suite 113 Jacksonville, FL 32246

2:00 - 3:00 p.m.

MICROSOFT WORD Learn the terminology, screen components, and the most commonly used functions offered by Microsoft Word.

Date

Location

Time

03/05/15

Southeast Regional Library 10599 Deerwood Park Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32256

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Date

Location

Time

03/18/15

Murray Hill Library 918 Edgewood Avenue S., Jacksonville, FL 32205

7:00 - 8:30 p.m.

Every 2nd and 4th Wednesday

Jacksonville Urban League 903 West Union Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204

8:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.

COMPUTER BASICS AND SOCIAL MEDIA

ROSETTA STONE: LEARN ENGLISH/SPANISH

Computer technology, social media and software including hardware, spreadsheets, word processing, Linked-in, Facebook, Twitter and Texting

At your own pace, learn English or Spanish using the individualized Rosetta Stone software.

Date

Location

Time

Every 1st and 3rd Wednesday

Jacksonville Urban League 903 West Union Street Jacksonville, FL 32204

8:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.

COPING WITH CRISIS Learn the stages of grief associated with the loss of a loved one and learn of local resources.

Date

Location

Time

02/23/15

One Love Christian Center 2960 Edison Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32254

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

HOPE FOR HOUSING Renting vs. buying, budget analysis, home-buying terms, the home-buying process, the mortgage loan process, post-closing and foreclosure prevention.

Date

Location

Time

01/15/15, 02/19/15, 03/19/15, 04/16/15, 05/14/15

Center for Language and Culture 7401 Old Kings road South, Jacksonville, FL 32217

12:00 - 1:30 p.m.

MANAGING YOUR MONEY IN TOUGH TIMES Learn how to make tough decisions for spending and get tips for reducing expenses.

Date

Location

Time

01/08/15

Southeast Regional Library 10599 Deerwood Park Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32256

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

01/21/15

Murray Hill Library 918 Edgewood Ave. S., Jacksonville, FL 32205

7:00 - 8:30 p.m.

Page 18 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2015

Date

Location

Time

Tuesdays (excluding holidays)

Center for Language and Culture 7401 Old Kings road South, Jacksonville, FL 32217

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., 3:30 - 5:00 p.m., 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.

Thursdays (excluding holidays)

Center for Language and Culture 7401 Old Kings road South, Jacksonville, FL 32217

10:00 - 12:00 noon

SAVINGS WITHOUT SACRIFICE Learn how to save energy and water at home with low-cost and no-cost changes.

Learn how simple changes can reduce your bill by up to 50 percent.

Date

Location

Time

01/27/15

Oceanway Middle School 143 Oceanway Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32218

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

02/24/15

Twin Lakes Elementary School 8000 Point Meadows Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32256

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

03/31/15

Chaffee Trail Elementary School 11400 Sam Caruso Way, Jacksonville, FL 32221

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

04/21/15

JEA Conservation Center 970 N. Main Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

05/19/15

Terry Parker High School 7301 Parker School Road, Jacksonville, FL 32211

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

To learn more or register online go to: www.duvalschools.org/ParentAcademy For additional registration options: E-mail ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org or call the Department of Family and Community Engagement (FACE) at 904.390.2960

SUCCESSFULLY LANDING THE RIGHT JOB!

WHAT’S YOUR MONEY PERSONALITY?

Prepare to successfully land the right job, create the right resume, and handle tough questions in a job interview

Determine your dominant money style and learn strategies to help you achieve more balance in your financial life.

Date

Location

Time

Date

Location

Time

01/29/15, 02/26/15, 03/31/15, 04/30/15, 05/20/15

Duval County Public Schools 1701 Prudential Drive, Suite 606, Jacksonville, FL 32207

11:30 a.m. 1:00 p.m.

02/05/15

Southeast Regional Library 10599 Deerwood Park Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32256

6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

02/18/15

Murray Hill Library 918 Edgewood Avenue S Jacksonville, FL 32205

7:00 - 8:30 p.m.

WOMEN RENEWED

THE IMMIGRANT GUIDE; WHAT EVERY IMMIGRANT NEEDS TO KNOW

Employment reentry program for female ex-offenders within 2-years of release or conviction.

Information for immigrants

Date

Location

Time

Mondays (excluding holidays)

Center for Language and Culture 7401 Old Kings Road South, Jacksonville, FL

10:00 a.m. 12:00 noon

Date

Location

Time

MondaysThursdays

5644 Colcord Avenue Jacksonville, FL 32211

10:00 a.m. 3:00 p.m.

WOMEN’S MEETING Networking group

UTILIZING COUPONS TO MAXIMIZE YOUR BUDGET An introduction to the world of couponing and best practices.

Date

Location

Time

05/20/15

Murray Hill Library 918 Edgewood Avenue S 32205

7:00 - 8:30 p.m.

Date

Location

Time

01/05/15, 02/02/15, 03/02/15, 04/06/15, 05/04/15

Center for Language and Culture 7401 Old Kings road South, Jacksonville, FL

9:00 - 10:00 a.m.

Thank you for your support of the Parent Academy: Learning. Growing. Together.

Page 19 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2015

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JACKSONVILLE 904-296-8600 www.sawyergasfl.com Page 20 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2015

Clay County School News Clay County School Board Election Two seats on the Clay County School Board were up for grabs in the fall election. In District 1, Janice Kerekes won her second term and in District 5, Ashley Gilhousen, a registered nurse, was elected for the first time. The District 3 board seat was decided in the August primary when voters chose newcomer Betsy Condon. The three winners each earned 4-year terms. They join Carol Stoddard, District

Janice Kerekes

2, and Johanna McKinnon, District 4, on the 5-member board.

Board meetings are held on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at the Teacher In-Service Center. The agenda is published 7 days in advance and posted on the school district website.

Ashley Gilhousen

Betsy Condon

Keep that Straight-A Average Safe and Sound: Look for these books to keep you on track As the second semester begins, large-scale assignments loom. Social studies reports, science projects, and group presentations usually take a lot of time and count heavily in final-grade calculations. Students who need ideas but keep drawing a blank can use this list of recommendations from the Clay High School media center website home page.

ISBN: 9781598843682 Publication Date: 2010

ISBN: 0226065650 Publication Date: 2008-04-15

Research Reports - Helen Sullivan; Linda Sernoff Call Number: 373.13 SUL ISBN: 1562946943 Publication Date: 1996-03-01

For every portion of the project, make sure to credit sources properly. Confused? Try these books.

99 Jumpstarts to Research - Peggy J. Whitley; Susan Williams Goodwin; Catherine C. Olson Call Number: P 371.39 WHI

The Craft of Research - Wayne C. Booth; Gregory G. Colomb; Joseph M. Williams Call Number: 808 BOO

Cite It Right - Tom Fox; Julia Mary Johns; Sarah Jane Keller Call Number: 808 FOX ISBN: 0977195716 Publication Date: 2007-09-28

January Calendar Friday, January 2, 2015

New Year’s Break, Student/Teacher Holiday

Monday, January 5, 2015

Planning Day/Student Holiday

Tuesday, January 6, 2015

In-service Day/Student Holiday

Friday, January 9, 2015

Report Cards to Parents

Monday, January 19, 2015

Martin Luther King Day, Student/Teacher Holiday

Page 21 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2015

www.oneclay.net OP/Middleburg (904) 272-8100 Green Cove Springs (904) 284-6500 Keystone Heights (888) 663-2529 TDD (904) 284-6584

Don’t Steal Copyrighted Stuff!

- Ann Graham Gaines Call Number: 808 GAI ISBN: 9780766028616 Publication Date: 2008-01-01 MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers Call Number: 808MLA ISBN: 1603290249 Publication Date: 2008-01-01 Source: chs.clay.libguides.com

Connect with us!

twitter.com/oneclayschools • and • www.facebook.com/OneClay

St. Johns County School District News CHARACTER COUNTS! 6 Pillars 6K/3K Run/Walk The CHARACTER COUNTS! Steering Committee is calling on all walkers, runners and fitness enthusiasts to participate in the CHARACTER COUNTS! 6 Pillars 6K/3K Run/Walk on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2015, at 2 p.m. The course begins and ends at Palencia Elementary School, 355 Palencia Village Drive, St. Augustine, after winding through the scenic neighborhoods of Kensington and Las Calinas.

A cash donation will be given to the top three schools with the most registrants. All race registrants will receive a tech t-shirt and lots of other goodies from area businesses and organizations. At the finish line, each race participant will receive a commemorative dog tag, which will be the first design in a series.

This event is produced by the CHARACTER COUNTS! Steering Committee and is presented by Beaver Toyota Scion St. Augustine with support from businesses and community groups.

The school district, along with area businesses, youth organizations and civic groups, selected the national character educational program of CHARACTER COUNTS! as a countywide initiative to instill positive character traits in county young people.

Participants can choose to participate in the 6K (3.73 miles) or 3K (1.86 miles). Registration fee for the 6K is $25 if paid in advance and $30 on race day. The 3K is $20 in advance and $25 on race day.

The event is open to all ages. The top three winners will be named in each of the age categories as well as the overall male and female finishers.

In an ancillary initiative, St. Johns became the first school district in Florida to implement “Pursuing Victory With Honor” in all of its athletic programs. Character education is an important part of every school improvement plan and a major component of the student code of conduct and the school district’s strategic plan.

Registration forms for the Run/Walk are available online at www.racesmith.com/races/CHARACTERCOUNTS.html.

The St. Johns County School District now has its own app.

MySJCSD, free and currently available in both the Apple iTunes Store and Google Play Store, offers easy access to information and resources for parents and students that is frequently visited on the school district’s website including school menus, Home Access Center, volunteers, bus routes, school fees, CHARACTER COUNTS!, and the St. Johns County Education Foundation. In addition, sections for parents contain links to the Parent Resource Guide, Contest and Events, Zoning Information, the School Calendar and the Student Code of Conduct. Students can access Edmodo,

Study Island and Discovery Education.

The app can also be used to obtain information that is communicated through the district’s Twitter account.

Check it out and let us know what you think. To download the app, see https://itunes.apple.com/ us/app/mysjcsd/id939399951?ls=1&mt=8 and https://play.google.com/store/ apps/details?id=com.conduit.app_ f37ab3bd128846caaefe0aa86ef7cb51.app.

Character Counts! In St. Johns County This month’s Pillar is RESPECT.

Respect:

Treat others with respect; follow the Golden Rule. Be tolerant of differences. Use good manners, not bad language. Be considerate of the feelings of others. Don’t threaten, hit or hurt anyone. Deal peacefully with anger, insults and disagreements.

Important Dates Friday, January 2 Monday, January 5 Tuesday, January 6 Monday, January 19

Follow us on Twitter

Winter Break - Student/Teacher Holiday Teacher Planning Day - Student Holiday Classes Resume for Students/Second Semester Begins Martin Luther King Day - Student/Teacher Holiday

Visit St. Johns County Schools online at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/schools/ for more information.

Page 22 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2015

EDUCATION

Grade CHANGER

Learning to Live with Social Media W hile social media use continues to grow and becomes increasingly common place, it is nonetheless an area of contention, particularly when it comes to kids – both in and outside of the classroom. To completely discourage use is not only unfeasible, it is also shortsighted. Social media will only become more prominent in the foreseeable future, and knowing the ins-and-outs of certain platforms to some degree is undoubtedly an essential skill for most future careers. On the other hand, using social media irresponsibly or without truly understanding how information is being used or shared can result in serious repercussions. We need to remember that social media is not inherently good or bad; rather, the way the technology is used is what differentiates positive from negative experiences. To help ensure that you, your students or your children gain the former, it’s important to educate yourself on social media with the following tips for using the technology in a responsible way:

TIPS FOR KIDS Watch What You Download: New apps pop up for download every day. While it’s tempting to get the latest ones – especially when your friends are using them – it’s a good idea to start reading privacy policies before downloading anything.

They will tell you what each app will do with your information when you use it.

Turn Off Location Functions: Most smartphones have a GPS signature letting viewers access the location and time of any photos you take. Before taking or posting a photo, make sure to disable this feature to prevent giving that information away.

Look Before You Post: Before you post a photo, make sure there is no private information or identifying location features in the background.

These can include addressed envelopes, prescriptions, notebooks with school names, street signs, house numbers, information on computer screens and more.

Know Who You’re Talking To: People can create false identities over social media, and smartphones get stolen all the time. Before meeting up with somebody through arrangements made by text or email, confirm who you think it is either through a phone call or video calling like FaceTime or Skype.

TIPS FOR PARENTS Set Ground Rules: If your child is relatively young, but is using social media, create an understanding that you will have access to their passwords or will be able to see what they are posting. At the very least, you should establish a set of rules so that they understand what types of things they should/should not be sharing.

Talk About Cyber-Bullying: Have a frank discussion with your kids about what constitutes cyberbullying, and review any available information or school policies together. Cyberbullying can

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A Lifetime Digital Dossier: Be aware that when you share your kids’ photos or life details, you are creating a digital dossier of information that can be recorded and follow them throughout their lives. They are not making the decision to post such information: you are. What you post now can affect them in the future, so be cautious with what you share and with whom.

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TIPS FOR TEACHERS Lock Classroom Accounts: Social media can actually be a viable pedagogical tool. However, if you choose to leverage social media in the classroom, make sure that any Twitter or Facebook accounts or groups are representative of your current class only.

Encourage Communication with Parents: Work with your school and parents on social media policies, particularly if they require creation or updating. Everyone should have a clear understanding of acceptable practices as they pertain to student use, safety and privacy.

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Keep Your Personal Social Media Use in Mind: Your use of social media on your personal time can have very real effects on your professional life. Be wary of your social media conduct, even on your personal profiles.

Set Boundaries: If you are using social media to interact with students, be sure that you adhere to any established policies. Ensure that boundaries are clear and conduct is professional and for educational purposes only.

When social media intersects with the school system – as it increasingly does – it is important that everybody involved is educated on what is and what is not appropriate. It’s not only students that need to be aware of the rules – teachers, school staff and parents must also remain informed. By establishing clear social media policies and exercising the proper discretion, students, parents and teachers alike can ensure that social media is being used responsibly both in and outside of our schools. j Jeff Quipp The Huffington Post

Page 23 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2015

The American Academy of Pediatricians has given neurofeedback the highest grading of effectiveness for ADD/ADHD. Provides a non-drug approach for diagnosing and treating ADD/ADHD and it is based on research that has been widely replicated all over the world.

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EDUCATION

Florida Native Takes the Stage as Circus Ringmaster

F

or the Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus XTREME ringmaster David Shipman, the journey to landing this dream gig is one that is full-circle.

A Pensacola native, Shipman saw his first Ringling Bros. circus at just 2 1/2 years old in his home town and fell in love. “It’s actually one of my first fragmented memories. I remember the lights and colors and even the ringmaster ...

Everyone remembers their first Ringling Bros. circus, it doesn’t matter what age you are. That’s why we say children of all ages,” Shipman said.

As a child, Shipman got his start in performing arts in Pensacola Children’s Chorus and theater, and then went to college at the University of Central Florida in Orlando. Upon graduating, he thought it was time to grow up and get a “bigboy job.”

“For me, the greatest part of The Greatest Show on Earth is to be able to look out into the audience and see the magic, the wonder and excitement on the faces of that next generation who are creating those memories that they’ll take with them for the rest of their lives – like I took mine with me. That’s just something that transcends generations,” he said.

Now, Shipman, along with the rest of the performers, is on the road 46 weeks out of the year after 5 weeks of rehearsals. He said that what makes Circus XTREME so fresh and innovative is that it’s not just a traditional circus with high wire – it’s high wire with a twist.

“What made it so fun and so cyclical for me as the ringmaster was that our third stop on my first tour was Pensacola and I got to perform in the same arena where I saw it when I was 2. So “For many years I did a 9-to-5 job and I just it was a very full-circle moment,” he said while found out that it wasn’t for me. So I left my job on beaming with pride. j a whim in July, and decided that I wanted to do everything that terrified me – take more chances.

The more it scared me the more I had to do it. I didn’t want to live a life where I had any regrets. I wanted to know that I did enough,” he said.

Things to Do Education

Educator Appreciation Days January 10 – 18 Join Barnes and Noble for Educator Appreciation Days from January 10 through the 18. Pre-K through

Ali Tabatabai, Optometrist Dr. Ted Brink and Associates Q. How long have you an Optometrist?

A. I’ve been blessed to be an optometrist for about 8 years now.

Q. Why did you choose to be an Optometrist?

A. When I was an undergraduate I, like a lot of students, didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do with the rest of my life. Through a series of unique events in my life it felt as if a higher power was pointing me in the right direction. I suffered a corneal laceration in my eye just before a Thanksgiving after being accidentally poked in the eye at work. It was my first exposure to the field and my first experience with an eye patch. During the span of a few months, I discovered that my uncle also had an accident injuring his eye, a cousin had gotten involved in a car accident requiring multiple eye surgeries, and my mother had lost vision in one eye due to a stroke. Then family friends who were both optometrists, told me more about the field and graciously allowed me to shadow them as they performed their craft. It was eye opening to say the least!

Those experiences led me to where I am today.

Q. What kind of education did you get to become an Optometrist?

A. I was already on my way to a Bachelor’s in Chemistry when I discovered my calling. After four more years of Optometry School at Nova Southeastern University in South Florida, I earned another Bachelor’s in Vision Science and my Doctorate of Optometry.

Q. What are some of your responsibilities as an Optometrist?

A. Providing quality eye care for any patient seeking visual exams for glasses or contact lenses, as well as providing emergency medical care when necessary.

Q. What do you like most about your job?

A. I feel blessed to be able to work with an amazing group of doctors, office managers, technicians and optical staff that each provides amazing service with the sole purpose of providing a quality eye care experience. The best part of my day is being able to help my patients see to the best of their abilities and to watch and hear their responses. The greatest compliment I receive is when I discover that my patients appreciated their experience enough to recommend me to others.

He soon stumbled upon the opportunity of a lifetime when he saw a Facebook post announcing an audition for Ringling Bros. ringmaster. Though he had missed the audition by a week and a half, Shipman sent his headshot and resume anyway.

An hour later, he received a call to do a private audition with the owners of the company and producers who offered him a contract on the spot.

2015 School Choice Expo January 10, 11am to 3pm Duval County Public School invites all area parents and community members to the district’s 2015 School Choice Expo. This year’s event expects to see 15,000 attendees, and offers visitors the best opportunity to learn about magnet, choice, neighborhood and charter schools. These schools will showcase their innovative programs and quality services that promote student achievement, and student performances consisting of choirs, bands, drama, dance, and musical theater. Additional education centric vendors and exhibitors will be on display. Free admission and free parking.

Prime Osborn Convention Center / 904-390-2082 / 1000 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / duvalchoice.com

That’s MY Job!

12thgrade educators save 25% on classroom and personal purchases, and 10% off café consumables.

There will also be special savings on new NOOK devices. Barnes and Noble San Jose / 904886-9904 / 11112 San Jose Boulevard Suite 8, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / www.bn.com Adventure Landing Educational Field Trips addons Adventure Landing now offers Free Educational addons to your Field Trip outing including: • Electra-Fiable Fun: Game Room Tech • Edible Education: Culinary • One Stop Pit Shop: Go-Karts/Mechanics • Our Little Entrepreneurs: Customer Service & Management • Splash Into Science: Waterpark/Water & Chemicals Regular Field Trip is $9.99 per person and includes: • 2 Hours of Unlimited Mini Golf • 2 Attraction Passes (Choose from Laser Tag, GoKarts, Wacky Worm Rollercoaster, Frog Hopper)

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• Add 20 Arcade Tokens for each guest and pay only $12.99 per person + tax.

A minimum of 10 people are required to receive special school group rate. Group reservations must be made 72 hours in advance.

Adventure Landing /904-246-4FUN /1944 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, Beach, FL 32250 / www. adventurelanding.com Visit Jax4Kids.com for more event listings.

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=All loans subject to credit approval. Visa Signature: Introductory APR=Annual Percentage Rate and is current as of November 1, 2014. Introductory/promo rate is valid on purchases, cash advances and balance transfers made from non-VyStar loans/credit cards through February 28, 2015. Rate on unpaid balances returns to standard variable or non-variable APR (as low as 9.1%-13.9% APR) on September 1, 2016. Rates and terms are subject to change without notice. Balance transfers and cash advances do not earn rewards points or cash back. Business and Savings Secured VISA cards are not eligible for this promotion. Certain restrictions, limitations, and exclusions apply. *Please refer to the terms and conditions under Disclosures at www.vystarcu.org for full program benefits.

VYS 1381 10.625 x 5.375.indd 1 Page 25 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2015

12/1/14 11:31 AM

infant & toddler

Florida’s Stronger Child Passenger Safety Law Taking Effect January 1

C

hanges to Florida’s Child Passenger Safety laws take effect on the first day of this month, requiring children up to the age of 6 to be restrained in either a car seat, separate booster seat, or an integrated seat. Prior law in our state has required children to be in car seat until age 4 and allowed the use of either a booster seat or a seatbelt for 4 and 5 year olds.

The enhanced requirements are expected to save lives and reduce serious injuries in children involved in motor vehicle crashes that can be caused by a seatbelt that doesn’t fit correctly.

“Children can be injured by the seatbelt itself,” says Cynthia Dennis, RN, Coordinator of Safe Kids Northeast Florida. “If the seatbelt doesn’t fit properly, it can ride up on a child’s abdomen, resulting in severe damage to organs and the spinal cord in a crash. A booster seat gives a child a little boost, positioning the seatbelt over strong bones and reducing injuries

Things to Do Infant & Toddler

Musical Storybooks January 3, 11am Join the Symphony at the University Park Branch of the Jacksonville Public Library for an early literacy and music program for pre-K children, presenting a story combined with music to engage them in active listening and foster a love of reading through music. Admission is free.

Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra / University Park Branch Library, 3435 University Blvd N, Jacksonville, FL 32277 / www.jaxsymphony.org Safe Kids Buckle Up parent (or grandparent) workshops will be offered on January 6 from 10am - 12noon at THE PLAYERS Center for Child Health, 3563 Philips Highway Building E, Suite 502 Jacksonville, FL 32207and on January 9 from 10am - 12noon at Destination Maternity, 4880 Big Island Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32246 These car seat workshops will teach you what you need to know to keep your precious cargo safe riding in motor vehicles. Upon completion of the class families in need of help have the option of purchasing a reduced-cost convertible car seat for babies for babies who weigh over 5 lbs and are at least 19 inches in length. Cost of car seat: $50 cash only, or with proof of Medicaid or Food Stamps $25 cash only. Please bring exact change. Class size is limited so please register for the class at www. baptistjax.com/classes. If you are more than 10 minutes late you will not be admitted to class. After the class, certified technicians from Safe Kids Northeast Florida will be present to make sure you have your car seat properly installed. Only one seat per child is available for purchase

by up as much as 45%,” Dennis added.

Best safety practice is to keep children who have outgrown a car seat in a booster seat until the seat belt fits correctly, which is usually when they reach 4’ 9” tall and weigh between 80-100 pounds, often between 8-12 years of age. Safe Kids Northeast Florida, led by THE PLAYERS Center for Child Health at Wolfson Children’s Hospital plans to continue its quarterly Booster Seat Saturday events, educating parents and caregivers about best safety practices and providing free booster seats to children who need them.

The next Booster Seat Saturday will be held during the SHADCO Safety Fair at Oak Leaf Town Center on Jan. 17, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., conducted by Safe Kids certified child passenger safety technicians and supported by a grant from Holland & Knight law firm.

Child must accompany adult parent or caregiver.

A limited amount of seats will be available, so please call 202-4302 for an appointment by Jan. 14. j Exception: If you’re expecting twins/triplets please contact the host for additional information.

Baking Storytime January 14, 10:30am to 11am Join Barnes & Noble for stories about baking your favorite things. There will be a reading of “Baking Day at Grandmas’s” and “How to Bake-a-Book”. Afterwards, there will be some dessert-themed activities. Barnes and Noble San Jose / 904-886-9904 / 11112 San Jose Boulevard Suite 8 Jacksonville, FL 32223 / www.bn.com Infant Safety Class January 14, 7pm to 9pm You may attend this class before your baby is born or after. The class covers basic safety concerns, how to prepare your home for a baby and the basics of infant CPR, along with demonstrations. Registration covers 2 attendees. Fee – $20.00. No refunds are allowed.

Classes are held weeknights from 7pm to 9pm. Classes are held in the lobby Conference Room, 1st floor, main lobby. Call 904-308-7325 for questions and information.

Email Jennifer.Wellman@jaxhealth.com for questions and info. Register online. St. Vincent’s Riverside / 904-6144915 / 1800 Barr Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www. jaxhealth.com Spot Visits Storytime – A Costumed Character Event January 17, 2pm Join Barnes & Noble for a special storytime with Spot.

Read some stories with Spot, followed by an opportunity to meet Spot himself. Parents, don’t forget your cameras.

Barnes and Noble San Jose / 904-886-9904 / 11112 San Jose Boulevard Suite 8 Jacksonville, FL 32223 / www. bn.com Visit Jax4Kids.com for more event listings.

Page 26 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2015

Kids really do say the funniest things! Please share your favorites with us by e-mailing your story directly to editor@jax4kids.com. One entry each month will be turned into a cartoon to be published in the next issue of Jax4Kids. We’ll send you the original cartoon as a keepsake.

Special needs

Dealing with Wandering of an Autistic Child R ecently in Baker County, an 8-year-old boy with autism ran away from home and was lost in the woods for two days until he was found after a massive search that included a helicopter.

The family was lucky. Other children who have wandered off have been found in ponds, pools, or ditches.

caregivers are able to hear them and respond quickly. Use the child lock feature for backseats so that children, even if they are trying to use the inside car door latches, cannot leave the car until you let them out.

Increasing supervision and support – If your child typically starts to leave in parking lots, then Wandering away or actual elopement (leaving an consider requiring handholding at all times when area without supervision) is an issue for nearly leaving a building, and/or stepping into a parking half of children on the autism spectrum ages lot. Find a way to increase support during the 4-10 (Solomon and Lawlor, 2013). This issue can problem times, even if it means bringing an extra occur outside of this age range as well, and many caregiver or carrying only small items so that of the children with ADHD that I’ve treated have escape can be prevented quickly. had similar issues.

Discover the motivation – Find out what the child We don’t have to look too far to find examples. is getting out of wandering/elopement. ProfesSometimes it is an annoying, but important, issue sionals can assess the situation if needed, but that happens when the child runs off to the living parents can try to think about the categories room instead of going to the bathtub. Other times, listed above to try to find out what’s happening. the child may run off from parents in a parking lot or on the sidewalk and can get seriously hurt or Reward good behavior – Set up that rewarding killed. experiences when the child is behaving. Studies vary with exact intervention methods, but options Why do kids do it? It depends, but typically they may include any combination of the following: are doing it to either get into something they praise and positive attention often while they are want or to get out of something they don’t. together with you; strong stimulation in the form Examples of things to get into include: the of a preferred toy or media device if they need to excitement produced by the physical sensations stay in one place for an extended period of time; of running; access to new and interesting supervised ability to run in safe areas (think environments with fun items (trees, toys, parks, playgrounds); and a trip to see new and mailboxes, cars, racks of flowing clothes); the joy exciting things AS LONG AS the child goes with of getting a large reaction – especially if these the parent, or as long as they’ve stayed close kids often play the “chase game” when it’s ok to during the 30 minute trip to the store. The run away from parents or caregivers; as well as rewarding experience should ideally provide the big reprimands or reactions if whatever they’re child with whatever your child is getting out of doing is boring…like having to sit in a cart for 60 wandering/running off, whenever possible. minutes. Things children try to get out of may Although it may be fine to run with a child, I include: unpreferred activities or tasks (shower, would recommend against caregivers playing cleaning room); unpreferred places (sitting at a chase with any child who elopes in public areas table, a loud room); or unpreferred things (loud until the issue is under control. Some kids have a noises, random things that bother them). hard time telling when it’s ok (or NOT ok) to do something.

What can families do about this? Sometimes professionals may not even know exactly how to Correcting bad behavior – Reduce or eliminate manage the issue. A strong plan includes: (1) that reward when the child wanders/runs off. eliminating risk if the child can escape quickly at Again, studies vary, but if a child laughs when times with little supervision; (2) increasing reprimanded or if they enjoy running, there are a supervision and support at problem times; (3) couple options. The child may benefit from a finding out what the child is getting out of parent giving a short, reasonably calm instruction wandering/elopement; (4) setting up that to call the child back, along with the caregiver rewarding experience when the child is behaving; catching up to them quickly. This requires that and (5) reducing or eliminating that reward when the adult be physically able to catch up to the the child wanders or runs off. child. Some protocols call for an immediate time out in that area, or overcorrection, in which the Eliminating risk – There are many ways to child has to walk with the parent hand in hand eliminate risk, including chains or deadbolts that back to the spot that they ran from and to try require keys (instead of knobs) on outside doors, walking regularly again. Some protocols allow for placed high on a door so that the child may not the child to access a preferred item while they unlatch them. Door alarms on their bedrooms at walk AS LONG AS they’re walking nicely, then to night may also be useful as long as their remove that item for a short time if the adult had

Page 27 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2015

to run after them. Others allow the child to walk near parents AS LONG AS they are able to stay near the adult, but would require them to sit in the cart for 2 minutes if they wander or run. That would also presume that if the child starts to have a tantrum the adult can ensure the child’s safety by putting them into the cart and keeping them there. Protocols that eliminate privileges that would happen later (like TV time or video games) may possibly be effective, but would be expected not to be as powerful as in-the-moment contingencies, like the ones listed above. Some children benefit, though.

These methods listed may require some exploration to decide what’s working well, and any one method may take several tries to ultimately begin

Things to Do Special Needs

Bring It On 2015 5K Trail Run & Hike January 3, 9am – 12pm Get your 2015 kicked off right with the Bring It On 2015 5km Trail Run & Hike. The run and the hike will both take place on the scenic and flat paved trails of Nocatee. Proceeds from the race will support Special Olympics Florida – Duval County & St Johns County.

There will be both a 5k Run and a 1 Mile Fun Run/ Hike through the roads and woods in Nocatee so anyone of any ability can join in, from walkers to first time runners looking to kick off their fitness in 2015 to the most experienced runner. Walkers and Runners are all welcome. www.specialolympicsflorida.org/duval / Race Starts at Village Lake Dr and Town Plaza Ave, 120 Marketside Ave Nathaniel’s Hope Buddy Break January 9 9am – 12pm – Deermeadows Baptist Church 6pm – 9pm – Raiford Road Church Buddy Break is held the second Saturday of every month. It is a free kids/respite program where children with special needs (VIP kids) make new friends, play fun games, enjoy crafts, therapy dogs, stories, music activities, and more. Siblings have fun too. Meanwhile, their caregivers get a break from their ongoing caregiving responsibilities for three hours. Each VIP kid is paired one-on-one with a screened volunteer “Buddy” to participate in that day’s activities. www.deermeadows.org / 904-302-9766 / Deermeadows Baptist Church, 9780 Baymeadows Road www. raifordroadchurch.org / 904-259-6015 / Raiford Road Church, 9201 South State Road 121 Annual CARD Conference - Orlando

slowing down or stopping the problem. As noted, though, even one incident of elopement in public areas can be very dangerous. Consult a professional Board Certified Behavior Analyst or a Behavioral Psychologist if you or your family needs assistance. j Andrew Scherbarth, Ph.D., BCBA-D Licensed Psychologist | Board Certified Behavior Analyst Keystone Behavioral Pediatrics 6867 Southpoint Drive North, Suite 106 Jacksonville, Florida 32216 Phone: 904.619.6071

January 16 – 18, 8am – 5pm The Annual Statewide CARD Conference is Florida’s premier conference on Autism Spectrum Disorders for professionals and families. National experts and regional professionals offer informative and stimulating presentations on a variety of topics on research, innovation, and effective educational programs for people diagnosed with ASD. This year’s conference will be held at the Florida Hotel & Conference in Orlando. www.pals-ucfcard.org / Florida Hotel and Conference Center 1500 Sand Lake Rd, Orlando, FL 32809 Henderson Haven - Mom’s Day Off January 17, 9am - 3pm Henderson Haven is offering a Mom’s Day off on select Saturdays for children with developmental disabilities. Children will participate in crafts and spend time with their peers and the experienced staff. The cost is $30. You must reserve your place ahead of time by checking the Program Calendar on the website. Reservations will be accepted between the Monday after the current scheduled day and the Wednesday before the next one. www.hendersonhaven.org / 904-264-2522 / 772 Foxridge Center Dr Celebrate Children January 31, 1pm - 4:30pm The vision of Celebrate Children is to increase awareness of resources related to pediatric recreation, wellness, injury prevention, and support services for children with special needs. Celebrate Children is free to all attendees and will consist of two educational panel discussions and a comprehensive resource fair.

A KidzKorner will be available throughout the event for youth activities geared towards children of all ages/ abilities. Celebrate Children offers a unique opportunity highlighting education, awareness, networking, and community participation to improve the lives of children of all ages and abilities. www.brookshealth. org / 904-230-7763 / 10423 Centurion Pkwy N

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teens

Teen Health

F

rom Day One, you have been responsible for most — if not all — of the decisions made regarding your child’s health care. You scheduled the early-morning doctor’s visits, arranged for X-rays and other diagnostic tests, ordered prescriptions from pharmacies and asked the necessary questions.

Your role begins to change when he/she becomes a teenager and are able to grasp medical concepts and understand the basics of managing his or her own health care. Experts say this is the time to start including teens in health care decisions and let them take a more active role in managing their own care.

Why Include Teens?

Time flies. Before you know it, your 13-year-old will be driving and your 16-year-old will be off at college. With adulthood just around the corner, it’s time to begin encouraging teens to take on leadership roles in all aspects of life — and health care is no exception.

By encouraging their participation (which can be as simple as calling in a prescription and picking it up at the pharmacy or as complex as helping choose a new care provider), you’ll help your teens learn valuable lessons about planning in advance, making choices, and being held accountable for themselves.

Involving Kids As the parent of any preteen or teen knows, giving kids new responsibilities doesn’t necessarily mean that they’ll follow through. It’s still up to you to encourage, remind, reinforce, and follow up.

As kids get older, it’s especially important for those with chronic conditions, like asthma or diabetes, to become more knowledgeable about their illnesses and self-reliant when it comes to medical practices.

• Kids who have a chronic condition should know who to contact for medical equipment or supplies that might be needed.

• At around age 14, in addition to the previous list, teens should: • Look into selecting an adult primary care doctor. Oftentimes, kids choose to visit the family doctor that their parents visit.

• Know any personal history of major medical conditions, hospitalizations, operations, or treatments.

• Be aware of family medical history (for example, does diabetes or heart disease run in the family? Did someone die of cancer?).

• Have the contact information for all current and previous doctors.

• Know how to fill a prescription and refill a prescription.

• Have a current list of medications and dosages.

• At around age 17, in addition to the previous lists, teens should: • Have or know where to get copies of medical records (for example: from school or the doctor’s office).

• Know their health insurance information and how to contact a representative.

• Know how to obtain referrals to specialists, if needed.

• Know the limitations of health insurance coverage once they reach adulthood.

• Plan ahead for medical coverage as an independent once parents’ coverage expires for dependents.

• If necessary, meet with the local Social Security office to apply for benefits.

Things to Do

/ 101 Library Blvd. Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www.sjcpls.org

Teen and Tween Keyboarding Tutorials January 7, 4:30pm to 5:30pm Learn how to keyboard more effectively using games and tutorials. Ages 10 to 18. Held in the Conference Room. Mandarin Branch / 904-2625201 / 3330 Kori Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / jpl.coj.net

Zen Art Doodle Club January 27, 6:15pm to 7:15pm Learn the Zen of doodling inspired by Zentangle.

New patterns will be introduced each meeting. No artistic ability is needed. Held in Study Room 115.

For more information call Elise Fare at 904-6931448. West Regional Branch / 904-693-1448 / 1425 Chaffee Road S, Jacksonville, FL 32221 / jpl.coj.net

YouthQuake Live January 9, 8pm to 10pm Twenty Year Anniversary Show of YouthQuake Live. YouthQuake Live exists to partner with the community to inspire young people to fulfill their God-given destiny through life-changing entertainment. Free Event (Target audience is high school and middle school, but it’s open to all ages). There will be skits, live music, and more. Youth Quake Live / New Life Christian Fellowship, 2701 Hodges Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / youthquakelive.tv

Growing Great Girls Annual Workshop: The Big Disconnect January 29, 10:30am to 2pm The Big Disconnect: Implications of Technology and Communication on a Girl’s Self-esteem. Tickets: $50-$70; Students: $20. Keynote presented by Dr. Catherine Steiner-Adair, internationally recognized clinical psychologist, school consultant and author.

First Coast Girls Initiative / Schultz Center for Teaching & Leadership, 4019 Boulevard Center Drive Jacksonville, FL 32207 / fcgijax.org

Movie Club January 27, 5pm to 7:30pm Teens (Ages 13 – 18 only) are invited to join this new Movie Club featuring primarily book-to-movie adaptations. Bring your friends, enjoy pizza and sodas, and decide if the movie lived up to the book. You don’t have to read the book to come, but the books are all available in the library. Kicking off this new event will be a recent book-to-movie adaptation (rated PG-13) based off the first book in The Maze Runner series by James Dashner.

Ponte Vedra Beach Branch Library / 904-827-6950

Free Mathematics Tutoring For Teens January 29, 4pm to 6pm If your 6th grader to 12th grader needs help with Algebra, Algebra II, Geometry, Trigonometry, or Precalculus, this is a great opportunity to get some assistance. Held in the Electronic Classroom. Contact Keli Likins with any questions at 904-288-6385.

South Mandarin Branch Library / 904-288-6385 / 12125 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / jpl. coj.net

Teens

Visit Jax4Kids.com for more event listings.

Kids With Special Needs Kids with special needs or chronic conditions may need additional support. Consider contacting the local chapter of your child’s diagnosis-specific group (for example, the National Association for Down Syndrome) to learn how other parents have helped their kids become more independent in adulthood.

Families who’ve already gone through this transition can offer a wealth of information, such as which doctors specialize in treating adults with Kids with special needs and developmental disspecial needs, what special services are availabilities can also learn to manage some (or many) able, and what programs to look into or avoid. aspects of their care. It often helps to get the green light first from a doctor, social worker, or Another resource that might be helpful are family other medical professional on how and when to advocacy groups. Many, such as the nationwide begin transitioning your child into more indepen- Family Voices organization, dedicate themselves dent living. to helping families of kids with special health care needs.

Recommended Guidelines At about age 12: Now is also a good time to find out what federal • Explain any medical conditions in language or state-run programs your child might be eligible your kids can understand, then have them for in adulthood. In addition to health-related repeat it back to you. This helps them learn services, some of these offerings might include about their diagnoses. support for finding employment, housing, and • Encourage them to spend time alone with transportation. In some cases, you may be able medical professionals (without you in the to enroll your child (or at least get on the waiting room). This helps establish trust within the list) in these programs now. Doing so might seem patient-provider relationship, and allows kids a bit premature, but can pay off later, when the to speak candidly and ask questions they need for services might be more immediate. j might be too fearful or embarrassed to ask in your presence.

Cory Ellen Nourie, MSS, MLSP • Have your kids learn what medications they take and why. If a child has any allergic reac- Nemours Children’s Health System tions to medications, like penicillin, share that information.

Page 28 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2015

www.JacksonvilleScienceFestival.org

Free Event to all !

Febuary 21, 2015 NEW

CHALK WALK

Saturday only at Friendship Fountain!

pets

Get a Puppy for Better Health Y

ou take good care of your pet. But what’s your pet done for you lately? Scared intruders from your door? Fetched your slippers?

Given you a loving nuzzle? People have lots of reasons for owning pets. Now a small but growing body of research suggests that owning or interacting with animals may have the added benefit of improving your health.

People and animals have a long history of living together and bonding. Perhaps the oldest evidence of this special relationship was discovered a few years ago in Israel – a 12,000-year-old human skeleton buried with its hand resting on the skeleton of a 6-month-old wolf pup. “The bond between animals and humans is part of our evolution, and it’s very powerful,” says Dr. Ann Berger, a physician and researcher at the National Institutes of Health Clinical Center in Bethesda, Maryland.

Today animal companions are more popular than ever. The pet population nationwide has been growing dramatically for nearly a half century.

More than two-thirds of U.S. households now own at least one pet. “When you see how long we’ve had pets in our lives, and how important they are to us today, I think it’s amazing that the study of human-animal interactions is still so new,” says Dr. Sandra Barker, director of the Center for Human-Animal Interaction at Virginia Commonwealth University. “Researchers have only recently begun to explore this wonderful relationship and what its health benefits might be.”

Some of the largest and most well-designed studies in this field suggest that four-legged friends can help to improve our cardiovascular health. One NIH-funded study looked at 421 adults who’d suffered heart attacks. A year later, the scientists found, dog owners were significantly more likely to still be alive than were those who did not own dogs, regardless of the severity of the heart attack. Another study looked at 240 married couples. Those who owned a pet were found to have lower heart rates and blood pressure, whether at rest or when undergoing stressful tests, than those without pets. Pet owners also seemed to have milder responses and quicker recovery from stress when they were with their pets than with a spouse or friend.

Several studies have shown that dog owners may get more exercise and other health benefits than the rest of us. One NIH-funded investigation looked at more than 2,000 adults and found that dog owners who regularly walked their dogs were more physically active and less likely to be obese than those who didn’t own or walk a dog. Another study supported by NIH followed more than 2,500

older adults, ages 71-82, for 3 years. Those who regularly walked their dogs walked faster and for longer time periods each week than others who didn’t walk regularly. Older dog walkers also had greater mobility inside their homes than others in the study.

Man’s best friend may help you make more human friends, too. Several studies have shown that walking with a dog leads to more conversations and helps you stay socially connected. And studies have clearly shown that people who have more social relationships tend to live longer and are less likely to show mental and physical declines as they grow older. “It’s hard to walk a dog and not have someone talk to you or interact with you, compared to walking alone,” says Barker. Other research suggests that pet ownership may hold special benefits during childhood. “When children are asked who they talk to when they get upset, a lot of times their first answer is their pet,” says Dr. James Griffin, a scientist at NIH’s Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.

“This points to the importance of pets as a source of comfort and developing empathy. In fact, therapists and researchers have reported that children with autism are sometimes better able to interact with pets, and this may help in their interactions with people.”

Several research teams are examining the potential benefits of bringing specially trained animals into clinical settings. These animalassisted therapies are increasingly offered in hospitals and nursing homes nationwide.

Although there is little solid scientific evidence confirming the value of this type of therapy, clinicians who watch patients interacting with animals say they can clearly see benefits, including improved mood and reduced anxiety.

“You can see the difference it makes in so many of these patients when the dog is at their bedside,” says Berger, who works to relieve pain in patients with life-threatening illnesses at the NIH Clinical Center. “Our patients are often here for a long period of time. I think the dogs add a bit of normalcy to a very difficult situation. The dog will sit calmly, and the patients don’t have to talk to anyone. They can just pet. I think this helps with some of the suffering.”

“I think we’re just at the tip of the iceberg in terms of what we know about the human-animal bond and its potential health benefits,” Barker says. j NIH News in Health, National Institutes of Health, Office of Communications & Public Liaison

Page 29 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2015

Things to Do Pet Events

PawsPlus Low Cost Pet Vaccinations Low cost mobile puppy, dog, kitten and cat vaccination clinic in locations throughout Jacksonville. No appointments, no exam fees.

Visit the website for locations - 6 area Pet Supermarkets: • 609 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32250 • 3760 University Blvd West, Jacksonville, FL 32217 • 10485 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32257 • 465 State Road 13, Fruit Cove, FL 32259 • 4524 St. Johns Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32210 • 835 Blanding Blvd, Orange Park, FL 32065 • 1020 South Ponce de Leon Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32086 Pawsplus / 1-888-729-7758 / www.pawsplus. com Adoptable Cats Meet & Greet January 3-4; January 10-11; January 17-18; January 24-25; January 31; 12noon to 5pm Stop by Petco to meet cats in need of loving homes. Whenever you adopt a pet you’re eligible for the Think Adoption First Care and Savings Program. Petco / 430 Cbl Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32086 / www.petco.com

Free Puppy Playtime January 4, 11, 18, 25, 11am to 11:30am This 30-minute session provides puppies ages 8 weeks to six months a safe and fun environment to learn social skills. Build a lifetime bond with your puppy while learning about puppy play and social development from a Petco Positive Dog Trainer. Petco / 11900 Atlantic Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32225 / www.petco.com Potty Training Seminar January 10, 2pm to 2:30pm Have a new puppy or an older dog going potty in the house? Free 30-minute seminar to learn great tips to help prevent accidents.

Petco / 11900 Atlantic Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32225 / www.petco.com Organic Pet Care Class January 26, 6pm to 9pm Come learn how to take care of your pets safely and organically. In this class, learn how to create A Calm Collar, Which Essential Oils are safe for your dogs and cats, How to create dog treats using your dehydrator and more. Cost of class is $19 for non-members. Register in advance.

A supply fee of $10 will be due in class.

Green Lotus Studios / 904-465-0985 / 26422 Rosselle St Jacksonville, Fl 32204 / www. localendar.com/public/greenlotusstudios Like Jax4Pets.com’s Facebook page at facebook.com/jax4pets to find out about other events for pets.

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things to do WinterFEST Enjoy a true winter experience as Adventure Landing’s Shipwreck Island Waterpark is transformed into a cozy Alpine experience including an outdoor Ice Skating Rink, 130 foot long ice slide, nightly snow falls, s’more roasting, light display and more. Adventure Landing / 904-246-4386 / 1944 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / www.jaxwinterfest. com Bring It On 2015 5K Trail Run & Hike January 3, 9am – 12pm Get your 2015 kicked off right with the Bring It On 2015 5km Trail Run & Hike. The run and the hike will both take place on the scenic and flat paved trails of Nocatee. Proceeds from the race will support Special Olympics Florida – Duval County & St Johns County. There will be both a 5k Run and a 1 Mile Fun Run/Hike through the roads and woods in Nocatee so anyone of any ability can join in, from walkers to first time runners looking to kick off their fitness in 2015 to the most experienced runner.

Walkers and Runners are all welcome. www.specialolympicsflorida.org/duval / Race Starts at Village Lake Dr and Town Plaza Ave, 120 Marketside Ave Swan Lake January 9, 8pm to 10pm The State Ballet Theatre of Russia’s production of Swan Lake plays Jacksonville’s Times-Union Center’s Moran Theater for one performance only on Friday, January 9, 2015 at 8pm. Tickets for The State Ballet Theatre of Russia - Swan Lake in Jacksonville start at $42.50 (and at $21.00 for children 12 and under) and can be purchased online, by calling 904-442-2929, and the FSCJ Artist Series

Box Office between 10am to 5pm, Monday-Friday.

Discounts are available for groups of 10 or more.

Times Union Center Moran Theatre / 904-633-6110 / 300 West Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.artistseriesjax.org 8th Annual Christmas Tree Recycling January 10, 8am to 1pm Drop off a Christmas Tree and receive a 3 gallon evergreen tree. Please remove all decorations, lights, tinsel, and ornaments prior to drop off. Other items accepted for recycling are styrofoam, old Christmas lights, and gift wrap. No televisions will be accepted at this event. Held at the Fuel Depot. City of Palm Coast / Fuel Depot, 22 Utility Dr Palm Coast, FL 32137 / www.palmcoastgov.com

close. Ponte Vedra Beach Branch Library / 904827-6950 / 101 Library Blvd. Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www.sjcpls.org Open House January 15, 5pm - 7pm Join Jax4Kids.com at Episcopal Early Learning Center Good Shepherd’s open house. There will be free food and fun including face painting, Space Walk, prizes and more! Episcopal Early Learning Center Good Shepherd / 904-723-4413 / 1100 Stockton St., Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.ecs4kids.org

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus January 15 – 18 Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus returns to Jacksonville with their all new Circus Xtreme tour.

Performers from around the globe will perform aweinspiring feats of daring, spectacles of strength and thrills of wonder. Tickets start at $15, plus fees. Save $5 on tickets when you use the code JX4KIDS. Songwriters Concert Ages 0-23 months admitted free on ticket holder’s January 11, 6pm to 8pm lap (no ticket required). If child has celebrated their The City of Atlantic Beach Cultural Arts and Rec2nd birthday, they must have a ticket to enter. reation Advisory Committee host a free concert.

Thursday, January 15 – 7:30pm Doors open at 5:45pm. Seating is first come-first Friday, January 16 – 7:30pm served for this admission-free event. Performers Saturday, January 17 – 11:30am, 3:30pm, 7:30pm should call host Mike Shackelford at 904-610-7461. Sunday, January 18 – 1:00pm & 5:00pm Prepare two original songs of 7-8 minutes combined Veterans Memorial Arena / 904-630-3900 / Jackmaximum. City of Atlantic Beach / 904-247-4038 / sonville Veterans Memorial Arena, 300 A. Philip Adele Grage Cultural Center, 716 Ocean Blvd, Atlantic Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.

Beach, FL 32233 / www.coab.us ringling.com Musical Madness for Kids January 14, 3pm The Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra presents a Musical Madness for Kids for kindergartners thru grade 5. The event will feature the Brass Quintet, featuring live performances and opportunities to learn all about the instruments and see them up

MOSH One Day Fun Day Camp January 16, 9am to 3pm MOSH is holding One Day Fun Day Camps on the days DCPS students are off. Kindergarten through fifth grade campers will enjoy themed activities and science experiments. Cost is $55; MOSH Members receive a 20% discount. Extended Care is an addi-

Hoggetowne Medieval Faire opens January 24th For two weekends each year, the kingdom of Hoggetowne opens its gates. Performers in period garb sing and dance in the streets, while knights joust on horseback and magicians captivate the crowds. Tucked away in the enchanted forest of the Alachua County Fairgrounds in Gainesville, Fl., this medieval marketplace will come to life Jan. 24-25 and Jan.30-Feb. 1.

where you can meet King John, Robin Hood, and his Merry Men as they battle the forces of evil. The Tournament Field will host a living chess game where brave knights joust for the honor of their ladies and Robin Hood and his Merry Men must battle the forces of evil in a stunning show of combat entertainment.

Hoggetowne is home to more than 160 talented artisans from across the country who journey to the Faire to sell and demonstrate their wares, offering medieval crafts such as weaving, blacksmithing, leatherworking, wood carving and glass blowing.

Visitors can also engage in traditional medieval games of chance and skill. They can shoot arrows or hurl battle axes at targets - or they can navigate their way through a winding maze. Thrilling humanpowered push rides, as well as camel and elephant rides, attract eager children and adventurous adults.

“Visitors should arrive early to take full advantage of the exciting medieval magic,” said Linda Piper, Faire coordinator. “Each morning all the entertainers greet the Hoggetowne guests as the city gates open to this enchanted kingdom.”

Children can the Middle Ages come to life at the Faire’s School Day Friday, January 30 and enjoy a day of face painting, hair braiding and medieval crafts. General admission tickets are reduced and larger discounts are available to school groups that register in advance.

The Faire’s eight stages feature the forgotten skills of full-flight falconry, gripping aerial acrobatics and old-world magic. Jugglers, knife throwers and gypsy dancers add to the excitement as they fill the streets of Hoggetowne.

One of the Faire’s most popular attractions is the joust, where knights in full body armor battle on horseback. Children can meet the knights and their magnificent steeds, or they can watch the Living Chess Match, where medieval heroes show off their swordsmanship and battle the forces of evil.

This year’s theme is “In the Days of Robin Hood,”

Page 30 • Jax4Kids.com • JANUARY 2015

On Saturdays and Sundays, the Faire is open from 10 am to 6 pm and costs $17 for adults and $7 for children ages 5 to 17. The Faire is free for children under 5. School Day, Friday, Jan. 30, is open from 9:30 am to 3 pm and admission is $8 for adults and $3.50 for children. Pets are not permitted. The Alachua County Fairgrounds is located east of Gainesville at 2900 NE 39th Avenue, adjacent to Gainesville Regional Airport. Tickets can be purchased in advance online at www.gvlculturalaffairs.org. For more information, call 352-334-ARTS or visit www. gvlculturalaffairs.org.

tional fee. Register online in advance. This month’s theme is Scientist For a Day. MOSH / 904-396-MOSH / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www.themosh.org/Home. html Open House January 22, 5pm - 7pm Join Jax4Kids.com at Episcopal Early Learning Academy’s open house. There will be free food and fun including face painting, Space Walk, prizes and more!

Episcopal Early Learning Academy / 904-394-0600 / 11217 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32223 / www.episcopalearlylearning.com Fly Guy and Other Stories January 26, 10am to 12noon A new musical revue based on favorite children’s books. Best for grades Pre-K thru 4. Tickets are $8 per person. There will be two performances, 10am and 12noon. Call to reserve your tickets.

Florida Theatre / 904-355-2787 / 128 East Forsyth Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / floridatheatre.com 12th Annual First Coast Honors Choir Festival January 31 The Jacksonville Children’s Chorus presents the 12th Annual First Coast Honors Choir Festival, with special guest conductor Melissa Malvar-Ruiz.

Jacksonville Children’s Chorus / 904-353-1636 / Mandarin Presbyterian Church, 12001 Mandarin Road, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / www.jaxchildrenschorus.org

EDITOR’S NOTE: Dates, times and locations are accurate at time of publication; events and activities listed in this guide are subject to change without notice. Visit Jax4Kids.com for updated information and more events!

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