Jax4Kids April 2022 by Jax4Kids

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Contents • April 2022

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

LIVING WELL

Dear Readers,

Community Profile: Clara White Mission – White Harvest Farms & Farmers Market ��4 Mom’s Night Out Events ��5

appy Spring!

The Clay County Fair is open now through April 10th, and Jax4Kids is proud to once again be a sponsor of this great North Florida tradition of quality family entertainment. Enjoy midway rides and games, fair food, live entertainment, livestock shows, a Kids Ag-tivia area, and visit the Early Florida Village to experience what life was like in Clay County dating back to the 20s, 40s, and beyond! The Early Florida Village is open each day of the fair until 7pm. If you didn’t purchase tickets in advance, visit claycountyfair.org for daily specials on admission and ride armbands. With Spring Break in our rearview mirror now, we are heading toward the end of the school year and summer! On pages 11 through 14, you’ll find a variety of summer camp options for your kids. You can also visit us online at jax4kids.com, where you’ll find a comprehensive and up-to-date list of camps. The Girl Scouts Gateway Council is introducing a program for girls entering kindergarten. Learn more about the Daisy Launch on page 9. If you have a teen, turn to page 20 and read

NATURE

Busch Wildlife Sanctuary Breaks New Ground ��6 Things to Do: Nature Events ��6

EATING WELL

Safely Handling and Preparing Leafy Greens ��7 Things to Do: Eating Well Events ��7

HEALTH & SAFETY “4 Conversations to Have with Older Kids and Teens About Their Screen Time Habits.” Thanks to guest columnist Leslie Dix-Kwiatek for sharing her knowledge about 529 College Savings Plans. If you’re planning for college costs for your children, you’ll find this informative article on page 15. Turn to page 22 for a list of Easter and Passover events you can enjoy with your family this upcoming holiday season. Until next month, Alison Peters-Carlson Editor

When Food is the Enemy ��8 Things to Do: Health & Safety Events ��8

INFANT & TODDLER

Girl Scout’s Daisy Launch ��9 Things to Do: Infant & Toddler Events ��9

SPECIAL NEEDS

What is Assistive Technology? �� 10 Things to Do: Special Needs Events �� 10

SUMMER CAMPS

Summer Camps ��11-14

EDUCATION

529 College Savings Plans �� 15 Duval County School News �� 16 Clay County School News �� 17 St. Johns County School News �� 18 Nassau County School District News �� 19

TEENS

4 Conversations to Have with Older Kids and Teens About Their Screen Time Habits �� 20 Things to Do: Teen Events �� 20

PETS

Losing a Pet: A Roadmap for the 5 Stages of Grief �� 21 Things to Do: Pet Events �� 21

THINGS TO DO

Easter & Passover Events �� 22 April Events �� 23

Alison Peters-Carlson Editor................................. editor@jax4kids.com Gabrielle Carlson Associate Editor.............................info@jax4kids.com Linda Bigbee Graphic Designer................................. linda@jax4kids.com Judi Fields Circulation Manager..................................judi@jax4kids.com Beth Canonica Advertising Sales.............................. beth@jax4kids.com Donna Paunetto Advertising Sales........................ donna@jax4kids.com Mary Gustafson Business Manager......................... mary@jax4kids.com Published by Child Enrichment, LLC, 12620-3 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246. Copyright 2022. 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.

APRIL 2022 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 3

LIVING WELL Community Profile: Clara White Mission – White Harvest Farms & Farmers Market

“E

verything good comes from the earth,” is the motto of White Harvest Farms and Farmers Market, an urban regenerative farm and an agritourism destination dedicated to research and education in regenerative agricultural systems, value added product development and community enrichment programming. White Harvest Farms (WHF) is an initiative of the Clara White Mission; the Clara White Mission was founded by Dr. Eartha M. M. White, who developed a number of social service programs that still exist today. Named in memory of her mother, Clara White Mission was established in 1904.

the soil on the farm, incorporate biological practices to promote and sustain soil life, develop an onsite compost facility, and implement an integrated pest management system. Through the commitment of organic farming, WHF is able to grow and provide high-quality produce for the community. WHF offers fresh produce at the farmers markets every Saturday, 10am to 2pm, from October through June. WHF accepts EBT, WIC Vouchers, cash and credit cards for accessible purchases. Also, produce is donated to the Clara White Mission to support their feeding program to the homeless.

Additionally, WHF has several local restaurants that purchase produce and partner with the The Clara White Mission aims to prevent and farm. Through continued partnerships at the reduce homelessness through advocacy, housing, job training and employment, working federal, state and local levels, WHF continues in partnership with businesses in the commu- its dedication to regenerative farm practices nity. They envision a community where at-risk and services to the community. individuals can reach their full potential and WHF is in the process of becoming a multifacachieve self-sufficiency. eted agritourism destination and agricultural training center. The five-year strategic plan WHF is a 10.5-acre urban farm and training includes an educational farm for youth center located in the historically rich and vibrant neighborhood of Moncrief Springs. The programming and job training in agriculture and sustainability practices. land farmed on today was sold to founder Dr. Eartha White in 1901 by the state’s first The farm accepts volunteers several days a African American millionaire, A. L. Lewis. Eartha homesteaded the land for many years, week and can accommodate groups of up to 15 for volunteering. To protect you, farm staff, establishing the Boys Improvement Club, a spring-fed pool, and the first African American and other customers, White Harvest Farms follows CDC guidelines and ask that you do museum and nursing home in the state of Florida. Today, the museum still stands on the not volunteer if you are feeling unwell. farm property and is registered as a local historical site. Unfortunately, in the 1960s, the Volunteering at White Harvest Farms is an spring was closed as part of a water improve- experiential learning opportunity where volunteers actively perform tasks associated ment plan. Much of the northside attractions with growing organic vegetables. The staff were closed as a result. Today the Moncrief explain assignments and work alongside Creek runs through the farm, separating the volunteers as they perform a range of tasks 10.5-acre property. associated with regenerative farming. Volunteer tasks are physical – planting, WHF hopes to feed people, heal the land and weeding, bed prep, mulching, harvesting, empower the community. Through many washing produce, bagging and labeling partnerships, volunteers and staff, White produce. Actions like digging, raking, bending, Harvest Farms brings new energy, life and twisting, using a wheelbarrow, lifting are part resources to the Historic Moncrief Springs community while honoring the life and work of of volunteering. Dr. Eartha M. M. White. Visit the farm at 4850 Moncrief Rd, Jacksonville, FL, 32202, or call (904) 354-4162 and Since 2012 the farm has adopted no-till regenerative agriculture in an effort to restore visit clarawhitemission.org/what-we-do/ white-harvest-farms for more information. j soil fertility and grow nutritional food on the land. In fall 2018, WHF was awarded a three-year NRCS Conservation and Innovation clarawhitemission.org Grant. This grant has enabled WHF to improve

APRIL 2022 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 4

MAY 10 TIMES-UNION CENTER Tickets at fscjartistseries.org

Adult Fitnastics at TNT Gymnastics Saturdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 12:30pm to 1:30pm Wednesdays, April 6, 13, 20, 27, 7:30pm to 8:30pm TNT Gymnastics hosts this adults-only class for those who have always wanted to learn a cartwheel or back handspring or are looking for a fun way to exercise. This class is designed for adults of all skill levels. Instructors spend time training gymnastics skills, from the very basic to as intense as you can handle. They also spend time doing various fitness exercises to help strengthen and tone, ultimately improving your overall abilities. Cost is $15/class as a drop-in rate. You must pre-register in order to save your spot in the class. TNT Gymnastics and Fitness / 904-9988681 / 2683 St Johns Bluff Rd S, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / tntgymfit.com Mosaic Workshop - Flowers in a Teacup on Vintage Trays April 2, 10:30am to 1:30pm Learn the art of mosaic with the local makers and store owners Julia and Rachael. In this workshop, you will make a decor piece using the art of mosaic. The best part is that the art is made using repurposed vintage china, dishes, and serving ware. Feel free to bring your own to class. No prior experience is needed. This beginner-friendly workshop is ideal for anyone interested in learning new skills and creating their very own work of art. Participants will learn how to begin a mosaic piece, including an overview of necessary materials; how to upcycle broken china for mosaic – cutting it to fit; how to select and work with texture and pattern to create movement and interest; and how to lay out small pieces to make a work of art. Class fee of $49 includes instruction and all the necessary supplies and materials. Vintage Arts Inc / 904-600-4278 / 10029 San Jose Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www.vintageartsinc.com DIY Candles & Tray Workshop April 3, 2pm to 5pm Nailed It DIY + Sophie Kate Candles are teaming up for a Candles and Tray Workshop. You will create your choice of tray with

Your little artist wants to change the world.

Nailed It, and then create your very own candles with Kate from Sophie Kate Candles. Options include a small or large tray and your choice of a Set of Two 2-wick Jar Candles or a 3-wick Dough Bowl Candle. Prices for the trays are $38 and $55; prices for the candles are $40 and $50. Nailed It DIY Studio Jacksonville / 904-434-6664 / 4611 River City Drive, Suite 119, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / jacksonville.naileditdiy.com

Let’s get them ready.

Ladies Night Out at Color Me Mine Thursdays, April 7, 14, 21, 28, 12noon to 7pm Thursday is Ladies Night Out at Color Me Mine. Ladies will receive $5 studio fees all day. Color Me Mine / 904-338-9333 / 10300 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / jacksonville.colormemine.com

An Officer and a Gentleman April 9, 8pm Based on the Oscar-winning film, An Officer and a Gentleman will be performed one night only. This musical adaptation features an iconic score, including the Grammy and Oscar-winning #1 hit “Up Where We Belong” by Joe Cocker/Jennifer Warnes, as well as other favorite 80’s hits. Ticket prices range from $39 to $101.50. Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts / 904-632-5000 / 300 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.fscjartistseries.org River City Dancing With The Stars April 30, 6:30pm The Jacksonville Children’s Chorus presents River City Dancing With The Stars. Local celebrity dancers are partnering with professional ballroom instructors to learn to dance, compete for the mirror ball trophy, and to be named River City’s favorite dancer. All competing star showcase performances are scored by a panel of judges and audience votes. 100% of proceeds from the event will benefit the Jacksonville Children’s Chorus. Doors open at 6pm. Tickets are $50 for general admission, $80 for reserved seating, and $150 for VIP. UNF Lazzara Performance Hall / 904-3531636 / 1 UNF Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / www.rivercitydwts.com

“Wherever you go, no matter what the weather, bring your own sunshine.”

– Anthony J. DeAngelo

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NATURE

Busch Wildlife Sanctuary Breaks New Ground

nitially founded in 1983, the Busch Wildlife Sanctuary opened in 1993 when the Peter W. Busch Family Foundation agreed to support it. The Sanctuary has a two-fold mission of wildlife rehabilitation and environmental education. Rescue The Sanctuary is a non-profit organization that serves Palm Beach County. It relies on the public to bring injured wildlife to its wildlife hospital so that it can rescue sick, injured, or orphaned native Florida wildlife. Over the years, they have rescued deer, foxes, screech owls, hawks, bald eagles, squirrels, birds, and many others. The Busch Wildlife Sanctuary volunteer rescue team is sent out to rescue animals that the public can’t, such as raccoons, great blue herons, bobcats, foxes, etc. Rehab The hospital staff works hard to take care of the many wildlife patients in their hospital. They feed the orphaned wildlife, perform examinations, administer medication, and much more. At certain times, they are taking care of more than 75 animals. Last year the Sanctuary had over 5,200 patients come into its hospital. All patients are examined upon the end of treatment and are assessed whether or not they can be released back into the wild.

Growth over the past two decades has made it necessary for the sanctuary to seek a larger facility, sanctuary chairman Peter Busch told The Palm Beach Post in early 2021. The sanctuary estimated that 6,000 animals received medical treatment there in 2021, an increase of 9% from 2020 and 17% from 2019. Busch leaders expect the new sanctuary to be open for public visits in 2023. Busch Wildlife Sanctuary’s new facility will remain free and open to the public, according to a news release from the organization. It will include five wetland habitats and feature birds, alligators, panthers, bears, and other animals rescued and treated by wildlife experts there. Sanctuary leaders expect it to take about a week to move all its animals safely and calmly to their new homes. The new education building will provide programs in English, Spanish and American Sign Language. The building will also be fully accessible under the terms of the federal Americans with Disabilities Act for people with mobility needs.

Things to Do Nature Events

16th Annual Bartram Bash April 9, 10am to 3pm The event is environmentally themed and is a birthday celebration for William Bartram, the first American-born naturalist. Families are invited for the historical interpretive performances of William Bartram and Sawgrass, a Native American performer, local vendors, educators, musicians, and tours of the Harris-Bennett House. Free. Alpine Groves Park / 904-209-0348 / 2060 State Road 13, St. Johns, FL 32259 / www.co.st-johns.fl.us Springing the Blooms • April 10, 10am to 1pm The Beaches Museum hosts the annual Springing the Blooms festival. Taking place throughout the Museum’s Pablo Historical Park, Springing the Blooms will feature horticultural exhibits, family-friendly activities, educational lectures, and live children’s music on the historic Foreman’s House front porch. Guest speakers will discuss topics such as Vertical Gardening 101, Life in the Sand Dunes, sustainable landscaping, and more. Exhibits include Life Cycle of the Butterfly, Everything to Know About Sea Turtles, Rockaway Sustainable Landscape Solutions, and The Wildlife of Hanna Park. In the potting shed, children will plant and water a sunflower to take home and grow. Reservations will be required, as well as social distancing and masks. Reservations will be scheduled for a specific time period. This event is free to members with a suggested donation of $5

for non-members. Beaches Museum / 904-2415657 / 381 Beach Boulevard, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / www.beachesmuseum.org Science on Tap – The Gopher Tortoises of Cumberland Island • April 13, 6:30pm to 8pm Science on Tap is a monthly science speaker series creating deeper conversation and understanding of topics relevant to the Jacksonville community. Dr. John Enz of Jacksonville University will discuss his ongoing research of gopher tortoises living on Cumberland Island. The event begins at 6:30pm with a pre-talk mix and mingle. The presentation begins at 7pm. A question-and-answer session will be held following the talk. The event is at Lemonstreet Brewing Co. and is free and open to the public. Lemonstreet Brewing Co / 904-396-6674 / 2100 Dennis Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / themosh. org U-Pick Strawberry and Blueberry Festival April 23, 9am to 4pm Towers Family Farms hosts their annual Strawberry and Blueberry U-Pick Festival at the farm. Harvest fresh fruit and vegetables with your own hands, meet the family that owns the farm, and even learn about farming and sustainability. There will be food trucks, animals, and vendors on-site. Entry and parking are free. Prices vary per pound. Towers Family Farms / 904-955-FARM / 487 Millican Rd., Palatka, FL 32177 / www.towersjax.com

Visit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list of Nature events.

Visit While the new location is under construction, you can still visit the current Busch Wildlife Sanctuary!

Release The Sanctuary’s goal after rehab is to release the healthy animals back into the wild.

The Sanctuary is open to the public Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM at 2500 Jupiter Park Drive, Jupiter, FL 33458.

Educate The Environmental Education Program at the Busch Wildlife Sanctuary is a curriculum-based project geared towards children and families. Through this program, children and adults are given the opportunity to learn about native plant and animal species and participate in conservation efforts to protect and preserve Florida’s wildlife, natural resources, and endangered species.

Take a walk on our trail through pine flatwoods, oak hammocks, and cypress wetlands; check out cool Florida wildlife ambassadors; and visit the Discovery Center and learn with interactive exhibits.

It sits at Rocky Pines and Indiantown roads, 6 miles northwest of the current sanctuary, which is sandwiched between Interstate 95 and Central Boulevard.

buschwildlife.org orlandosentinel.com

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OPENS APRIL 15

While there is no admission fee, please support Busch Wildlife Sanctuary by making a donation.

Baby Season Baby Season is the Sanctuary’s busiest time of the year and lasts from March through SeptemThere are multiple educational programs at the Sanctuary, including field trips and specialty tours. ber; they receive up to 50 animals a day in need of care and medical attention, many of whom Visit buschwildlife.org for more information. need months of loving care and rehabilitation before returning to the wild. Expansion This past month, crews broke ground on a new You can make a one-time gift or become a Baby 19.4-acre site in Jupiter Farms for the Busch Season Sponsor by visiting their website. j Wildlife Sanctuary and its 200 animals.

APRIL 2022 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 6

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EATING WELL Safely Handling and Preparing Leafy Greens

egetables are an important part of a healthy diet. Leafy greens such as lettuce, spinach, cabbage, kale, and bok choy provide nutrients that help protect you from heart disease, stroke, and some cancers. But leafy greens, like other vegetables and fruits, are sometimes contaminated with harmful germs. Washing leafy greens does not remove all germs. That’s because germs can stick to the surface of leaves and even get inside them. If you eat contaminated leafy greens without cooking them first, such as in a salad or on a sandwich, you might get sick. The CDC estimates that germs on produce eaten raw cause a large percentage of U.S. foodborne illnesses. Some groups of people are more likely to get a foodborne illness and to have a serious illness. These groups include: • Adults aged 65 and older • Children younger than 5 years • People who have health problems or take medicines that lower the body’s ability to fight germs and sickness • Pregnant people Safely Handling and Preparing Leafy Greens Prewashed greens don’t need to be washed again. If the label on a leafy greens package says ready-to-eat, triple washed or no washing necessary, you don’t need to wash the greens: Prewashed greens sometimes cause illness. But the commercial washing process removes most of the contamination that can be removed by washing. All other leafy greens should be thoroughly washed before eating, cutting, or cooking. The best way to wash leafy greens is by rinsing them under plain running water. Studies show that this step removes some of the germs and dirt on leafy greens and other vegetables and fruits. But no washing method can remove all germs. Follow these steps to wash leafy greens that you plan to eat raw: • Wash your hands for 20 seconds with soap and water before and after preparing leafy greens. • Get rid of any torn or bruised leaves. Also, get rid of the outer leaves of cabbages and lettuce heads. • Rinse the remaining leaves under running water. Use your hands to gently rub them to help get rid of germs and dirt. • Dry leafy greens with a clean cloth or paper towel. Do not soak leafy greens. If you soak them in

a sink, germs in the sink can contaminate the greens. If you soak them in a bowl, germs on one leaf can spread to the other leaves. Rinsing leafy greens under plain running water is the best way to wash them. Do not wash leafy greens or other produce with soap, detergent, or produce wash. Do not use a bleach solution or other disinfectant to wash produce. Keep these steps in mind when you select, store, and prepare leafy greens and other produce: • Select leafy greens and other vegetables and fruits that aren’t bruised or damaged. • Make sure pre-cut produce, such as bagged salad or cut fruits and vegetables, is refrigerated or on ice at the store. • Separate produce from raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs in your shopping cart, grocery bags, and refrigerator. • Store leafy greens, salads, and all pre-cut and packaged produce in a clean refrigerator with the temperature set to 40°F or colder. • Use separate cutting boards and utensils for produce and for raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs. If that isn’t an option, prepare produce before working with raw meat. • Wash utensils, cutting boards, and kitchen surfaces with hot, soapy water after each use. • Cook thoroughly or throw away any produce that touches raw meat, poultry, seafood or their juices. • Refrigerate cooked or cut produce, including salads, within two hours (one hour if the food is exposed to temperatures above 90°F, like a hot car or picnic). Organic, Hydroponic, and Home-Grown Leafy Greens All kinds of produce, including hydroponic, greenhouse-grown and organic leafy greens, can be contaminated with harmful germs at any point from farm to fork. CDC is not aware of any evidence that organic greens are safer. Home gardens can be an excellent source of fruits and vegetables. Follow these tips to help prevent food poisoning: • Plant your garden away from animal pens, compost bins, and manure piles. • Water your garden with clean, drinkable water. • Keep dirty water, including storm runoff, away from the parts of plants you will eat.

Things to Do Eating Well Events

Grow It, Try It, Like It! April 6, 10:30am to 11:30am Learn about fruits and veggies through stories, songs, activities, and crafts at “Grow It, Try It, Like It!” This preschool program presented by UF/IFAS Family Nutrition Program is designed to introduce children to new fruits and vegetables through garden-themed activities. To help maintain social distancing, seating is limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Free. Clay County Public Library, Middleburg-Clay Hill Branch / 904-541-5855 / 2245 Aster Avenue, Middleburg, FL 32068 / claycountygov.libcal.com Big and Little Chef: One Pan World Wonders April 10, 23, 10am Big Chef, Little Chef series classes are designed specifically for a guardian/parent, older sibling (18 or older), etc. paired with a young chef. Each pair will work together (along with the rest of the students) to create recipes that are appropriate for adults and kids alike. Big Chef must be 18 or older, and the Little Chef age range should be 5 to 12 years old. This class will focus on meals that only need to be made on one baking sheet pan or baking dish. The menu features Sheet Pan Fried Rice with Sunny Side-Up Eggs, 3-Bean Chili with Cornbread Dumplings, Greek-Style Chicken Flatbread with Tzatziki, and Inside-Out Churro Donuts. Cost is $80 for each parent/child combo. Publix Aprons Cooking School / 904-262-4187 / 10500 San Jose Blvd Ste 36, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www.publix.com Big and Little Chef: Food Revolution April 16, 24, 10am Big Chef, Little Chef series classes are designed specifically for a guardian/parent, older sibling (18 or older), etc. paired with a young chef. Each pair will work together (along with the rest of the students) to create delicious recipes that are appropriate for adults and kids alike. Big Chef must be 18 or older, and the Little Chef age range should be 5 to 12 years old. The menu features Chocolate Cake Shake with Hot Cocoa Whipped Cream, Nacho-Stuffed Quesadilla with Restaurant-Style Queso, Turkey Sliders with Fancy Sauce, Relish, and Pushcart Onions, and Cheddar Drop Biscuits with Apple Jam. Cost is $80 for each

parent/child combo. Publix Aprons Cooking School / 904-262-4187 / 10500 San Jose Blvd Ste 36, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www.publix.com Jax Cooking Studio: Earth Day Inspired Treats April 23, 2pm - 4:30pm In this class, participants will celebrate Earth Day by making cupcakes that look like succulents, mousse that will inspire you to compost, and sugar cookies that look like your favorite garden veggies. You’ll eat some in the studio and take the rest home to share. Cost is $65 for ages 13 and up; children 12 and under with a registered adult are $45 (Max of two child tickets per registered adult, please). For pastry classes, adults registered with a child will make one recipe together. For non-pastry classes, adults and children will work together to make their meal. Jax Cooking Studio / 904379-6220 / 14035 Beach Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / jaxcookingstudio.com Jax Cooking Studio: Family Cooking: Spanish Cuisine • April 24, 6pm to 8:30pm Join Jax Cooking Studio to explore the flavors of Spain as the chefs teach you tips and tricks for creating the perfect adobo chicken and rice. The menu features Beef Empanadas, Guest Made Pico de Gallo and Guacamole, Adobo Seasoned Chicken and Rice, and Guest Made Churros with Chocolate Sauce. Cost is $65 for ages 13 and up; children 12 and under with a registered adult are $50 (Max of two child tickets per registered adult, please). Adults registered with a child will make one recipe together. If you and your child would like to each make your own full recipe, please register for two adult tickets. Jax Cooking Studio / 904-379-6220 / 14035 Beach Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / jaxcookingstudio.com Baking History April 27, 4:30pm to 5:30pm Join cooking staff for another Baking History hour, where participants will discuss a popular children’s book and make a related recipe. This program is designed for children 4th grade and up. Please register any child in attendance. St. Johns County Public Library Bartram Trail Branch / 904-827-6960 / 60 Davis Pond Blvd, St. Johns, FL 32259 / sjcpls.org

Visit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list of Eating Well events.

Visit our Ponte Vedra location in the Sawgrass Village Shopping Center 340 Front Street, Suite 770

cdc.gov

APRIL 2022 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 7

HEALTH & SAFETY

When Food is the Enemy

very year, millions of Americans are affected by an eating disorder, according to the American Psychiatric Association. Eating disorders are often diagnosed in the teenage years but have been seen in children as young as 9 years. An eating disorder is a very serious medical condition that at its worse outcome could be fatal. Therefore, it is critical for those with symptoms to seek professional help. Early treatment gives the greatest chance for a full recovery. The explosion of social media platforms, which has evolved over the past five to ten years, has only enabled pro-eating disorder communities and images to flourish and further influence the vulnerable youth. Adolescents and young adults who identify as LGBTQ are also at higher risk for developing disordered eating behaviors. Let’s take a look at three main types of eating disorders. • Anorexia nervosa involves a severe restriction of calories; there is an intense fear of weight gain and often strict "rules" about eating. Often the child/adolescent is very underweight. The process of starvation can affect organ systems with physical dangers including constipation, low heart rate and blood pressure, abdominal pain, dry skin, lack of menstrual periods, anemia, bone loss, kidney problems and changes in brain function. • Bulimia nervosa may involve the same fears and restrictions as anorexia but also involves a lack of control while binge eating followed by purging (vomiting/laxative use) and/or excessive exercise. Often, the child/adolescent is normal weight and may even be a bit overweight. Vomiting and laxative abuse can lead to swollen glands, digestive problems, vitamin and mineral deficiencies/imbalances and wearing down of tooth enamel. • People with binge eating disorder eat large amounts of food in a short amount of time. Food often is eaten without attention to hunger or fullness and is not purged afterwards. This disorder can bring an increased risk for a heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, kidney disease, arthritis, and bone loss. What are signs to look for? Signs of anorexia nervosa may include any of the following: • Dramatic weight loss and refusal to maintain a body weight that is healthy • Wearing baggy clothes or layers to hide body shape • A preoccupation with weight, exercise and/or calories • Food restriction and avoidance • Belief life will be better if weight is lost • Use of diet pills, laxatives and/or enemas • Isolation and fear of eating with others • Food rituals and secretive eating patterns • Disposing of food in strange places • Keeping a "food diary" or lists of calories and exercise • Hair loss, sunken eyes, pale skin • Dizziness and headaches

• Low self-esteem and need for approval from others • Feeling cold • Low blood pressure and heart rate • Loss of menstrual cycle or irregular menstrual periods • Constipation, stomach pain • Perfectionist personality • Mood swings, depression, anxiety and/or fatigue • Trouble sleeping Signs of bulimia nervosa include many of those listed above, and may include: • Bruised or callused knuckles, bloodshot eyes, light bruising under eyes • Sore throat and/or swollen glands • Binging and/or purging • Fear of not being able to control eating • Trips to the bathroom following meals, sometimes using running water to hide the sound of vomiting In addition to the signs listed for anorexia and bulimia, binge eating disorder may include: • Chronic dieting with or without weight loss • Eating in private • Eating very quickly • Eating until uncomfortably full • Feeling depressed or ashamed about eating habits • High blood pressure and/or cholesterol • Leg and joint pain, decreased activity • Weight gain If you feel like your child or teen is exhibiting any of these signs, you will want to address them with his/ her pediatrician. What can I do as a parent? • Check out your own body image issues. Often children mimic what they hear at home. Parental body image has a powerful influence on how kids feels about their bodies. • Talk to your kids about eating for health, not weight. Help your child/teen make wise, healthy food/meal/snack/beverage choices. • Get moving with your kids. Everyone can benefit from regular physical activities whether it’s participating in a team sport or taking a brisk walk. • Watch out for school bullies. Encourage your school to address the issues of weight-related teasing, gender-shaming, and other types of bullying. Support nutrition education in the classroom and physical education in schools. • Talk to your children about fake media. Help your kids understand that what they see on television and social media is often not reality. “Picture-perfect” models and movie stars are made to appear that way in media. • Talk with your health care provider if you have any concerns regarding your child/teen and eating disorder behaviors. j

Aurea Thompson, MSH, RD, CSP, LD/N Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Nutrition Wolfson Children’s Hospital

APRIL 2022 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 8

Things to Do Health & Safety Events Mommy and Me Goat Yoga April 1, 9:30am to 11am This yoga class combines challenging poses for adults and some cute, fun poses for kids. Although it is called Mommy and Me, any adult is welcome to attend with their favorite little sidekick. Classes will be limited to 10 adult/ child pairs. Masks are required until you're on your mat; at that point, they are optional. This event is held outdoors with plenty of space to appropriately social distance between individuals or groups. Cost is $30. Little Peeps Farmer for a Day / 3049 Cortez Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / littlepeepsfarm.com TNT Gymnastics Ninja Night April 1, 7pm to 8pm Join TNT Gymnastics for a night dedicated to Ninjas in training. The first Friday of every month from 7pm to 8pm is Ninja Night at TNT Gymnastics. Cost is $15 for members and $20 for non-members. Ages 5 and up. TNT Gymnastics / 904-998-8681 / 2683 Saint Johns Bluff Road South, Suite 107, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / tntgymfit.com Introduction to Art Therapy: Discovering Your Creativity • April 6, 6pm to 7pm This hour-long workshop will incorporate artmaking, mindfulness, and education about emotions. Grab any art supplies you have handy (paper, crayons, paint, string, scissors, etc.) for a workshop for the whole family. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a free family resource that promotes parental involvement, enhances student achievement, and supports a caregiver's need for personal and individual growth. Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / dcps. duvalschools.org Cupcake Run 5K & Cake Walk April 9, 7:30am Sweet by Holly hosts The Cupcake 5K and 1-mile Cake Walk fun run benefiting Girls on the Run of Northeast Florida. The 5K begins at 7:30am, and the Kids Cake Walk starts at 8:30am. All Cupcake Run and Cake Walk participants will receive a cupcake by Sweet by Holly at the finish and vouchers for two more free cupcakes. There will be medals for both the Cupcake Run & Cake Walk, a technical race shirt for 5K participants, and a cotton t-shirt for Cake Walk participants. The race starts and ends in the St. Johns Town Center in the area adjacent to Target, Old Navy, and Pet Smart. This race is walker- and stroller-friendly, although you will be asked to start in the back. The First Place Finisher overall will win Sweet by Holly Cupcakes for a Year (a dozen minis per month). In addition, there will be a costume contest with prizes awarded to Best Cupcake Costume, Most Icing (most decorative accessories), Best Family Ensemble, and Best Team

Costume. Registration fees start at $25 for the fun run and $40 for the 5K. St John's Town Center / 904-619-6763 / 4624 Town Crossing Dr #137, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.gotrnefl.org Apryle Showers 10K and Kids Fun Run April 10, 7:30am The fifth annual Apryle Showers Run features a 6.2-mile loop that is good for all running levels. There will also be a 10K relay and a free kids fun run for ages 12 and under. Proceeds raised for the event will go towards the Apryle Showers Foundation. Apryle Showers is a Florida 501(c)(3) non-profit organization serving individuals ages 30 to 55 currently undergoing treatment for cancer. Apryle Showers offers services that help foster hope, healing, restoration, and peace to people fighting for their lives. Nocatee Station Field / 904-309-4476 / 245 Nocatee Center Way, Ponte Vedra, FL 32081 / www.apryleshowers.org 2nd Annual St. Augustine VegFest April 16, 1pm to 5pm The 2nd Annual St. Augustine VegFest returns to the World Golf Hall of Fame. St. Augustine VegFest is a diverse and inclusive event that is committed to educating the community about plant-based lifestyles and how they contribute to a healthier, more sustainable, socially just, compassionate, and cruelty-free world. There will be vendors, performances, activities, music, food, and more. The event is free with free parking. World Golf Hall of Fame / 904-201-9590 / 1 World Golf Place, St. Augustine, FL 32092 / www.jacksonvillebusinessconnections.com Anxiety in Children: Signs, Symptoms, & Strategies • April 26, 6pm In this course, viewers will learn strategies to recognize and identify the signs and symptoms of different anxiety disorders as well as coping strategies for you and your child(ren). The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a family resource designed for parents, caregivers, and community members. All Parent Academy courses are free of charge. Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / dcps.duvalschools.org Turtle Crawl • April 30, 7am Since 2003, Jekyll Island has hosted the Turtle Crawl, a set of races benefiting the Georgia Sea Turtle Center (GSTC). The annual race event returns to mark the start of sea turtle nesting season on the Georgia coast. Events include a 10K, 5K, and 1K Fun Run. There is also an option to become a Ghost Crawler, a virtual participant option. Registration starts at $20. Register early to guarantee race t-shirt. Jekyll Island Beach Village / 912-635-4444 / 31 Main Street, Jekyll Island, GA 31527 / www.jekyllisland.com

Visit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list of Health & Safety events.

INFANT & TODDLER

Girl Scout’s Daisy Launch

s we wind down this school year, the Girl Scouts of Gateway Council are helping young girls gear up for kindergarten. The organization has introduced its Daisy Launch, an introductory program for girls entering kindergarten, to familiarize them with the types of activities and adventures she’ll encounter as a Daisy. The Daisy Launch program is a four-part virtual series taking place Tuesdays at 12pm and Thursdays at 6pm through May 2022. Pre-K girls enrolling in kindergarten this fall will develop social skills and self-confidence as they learn to focus and thrive in both their kindergarten classrooms and the Girl Scouts program. The series will allow girls to connect with the same new friends each week, as well as the Girl Scouts staff and volunteers who will lead the sessions.

The program will focus on language, literacy, cognition, approaches to learning and social and emotional learning. Upon completion, girls will receive a patch and Girl Scout Daisy Launch Activity book. The series is free to participate. In addition to the digital series, Gateway Council will also host in-person Popsicles in the Park events in April and May for the incoming Daisy’s to gather together and make new friends. The events will take place across all counties in the Council. The Daisy Launch program is free to prospective Girl Scouts across the 35-county Gateway Council region. To learn more or register your child, visit girlscouts-gateway.org. j girlscouts-gateway.org

Episcopal Children’s Services Free Child Care Resource & Referral (904) 726-1500 • (800) 238-3463 www.ecs4kids.org Child Care Resource and Referral Services can help your family by providing: • A customized list of local child care options from our trained specialists. • Information about quality child care and early learning programs • Financial assistance strategies and opportunities • Referrals to other community resources and programs.

Early

Learning Coalition North Florida

Helping Children. Helping Families.

Things to Do Infant & Toddler Events

Virtual Breastfeeding Class April 2, 12:30pm to 1:30pm The class is designed for parents that are planning to breastfeed or need support. Hosted by Certified Lactation Counselor Tawanna Nottage, who is also a member of the Broward County Breastfeeding Coalition. The class will cover the following topics: How breastfeeding works, Getting the best start, Positions & latching on, How to tell if your baby is getting enough milk, Common challenges and how to overcome, and Breastfeeding support. The event is online and is free. Pediatric Associates / 954-966-8000 / www.pediatricassociates.com Mandarin Lutheran Church Baby Pantry April 3 and 17, 10am to 12noon The goal of the MLC Baby Pantry is to supply local families in need with baby care items, including diapers, wipes, bath needs, rash cream, ointments, and gently used clothing at no cost to parents in the Jacksonville area. The baby pantry is open on the first and third Sunday of each month from 10am to 12noon. Availability of items is on a first-come, firstserved basis. Bring proof of residency (driver’s license, rental agreement, or mortgage statement), as well as proof that the child you are receiving supplies for is your child (birth certificate) or in your care. Need is on the honor system. They are not asking for proof of income but do ask only that you help them be able to help as many people as possible. Mandarin Lutheran Church / 904-268-4591 / 11900 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / mandarinlutheran.org Wiggle, Giggle & Groove Wednesdays, April 6, 13, 20, 27 10:30am to 11:30am Bring your little ones to stretch, sing, play instruments, and dance while exploring sounds, rhythms, and patterns that make up language. Feel free to bring your own props from home like a rattle to shake or a favorite stuffed animal to be your dance partner. Blankets are encouraged to help with social distancing. Free and open to ages 0 to 5. Clay County Public Library Green Cove Springs Branch / 904-284-6315 / 403 Ferris Street, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 / www.claycountygov.com Wiggle Wednesdays April 6, 10:30am to 11:15am The Florida Ballet and Jacksonville Public Library present Wiggle Wednesdays for ages 2 through 5. Offered the first Wednesday of the month, this free program will provide

children and caregivers a unique opportunity to explore movement through literature. Each month, class activities will be based upon a selected piece of children’s literature. Music and props will be utilized, focusing on movement exploration while incorporating the selected book's descriptive language and imagery. Register for this free event in advance. This month’s theme is Things that Grow and the featured book is Plant the Tiny Seed by Christie Matheson. The Florida Ballet / 904-353-7518 / 10131 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225 / floridaballet.org MOSH Molecules April 8, 22, 1pm; April 9, 23, 11am The Museum of Science & History’s early childhood program provides big learning for the youngest guests. Geared for children ages 3, 4, and 5, MOSH Molecules allows you and your child to explore and create memories in a safe environment. Classes are held every other week during the semester, with eight children maximum per class. Classes are Fridays at 1pm and Saturdays at 11am. Program content may include any of the following: reading a book, completing a craft, physical activity, free play, a hands-on activity, songs, and dance. Classes will last 45 minutes. Registration is $20 and includes program admission for one child and one adult as well as admission to the Museum following the program. Museum of Science and History / 904-3966674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org Up, Up & Away: Successful Tips for Transitioning to Kindergarten April 19, 6pm to 7pm Do you have a little one that is heading to kindergarten next school year? If so, join this informative class to learn strategies on how to best prepare your child(ren), select your school, and navigate the DCPS registration process. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a free family resource that promotes parental involvement, enhances student achievement, and supports a caregiver's need for personal and individual growth. Duval Parent Academy / 904-3902960 / dcps.duvalschools.org Pediatric Associates Virtual New Parent Class • April 23, 12:30pm Designed specifically for expectant parents, the free virtual one-hour course covers numerous topics on preparing for your new arrival, such as your child's development, immunizations, breast vs bottle feeding, and more. Pediatric Associates / 954-966-8000 / pediatricassociates.com Visit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list Infant & Toddler Events.

APRIL 2022 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 9

SPECIAL NEEDS

What is Assistive Technology?

StopBreatheThink, which was designed with teenagers in mind, can recommend an activity to help ease their thoughts. It offers solutions for a variety of emotions from frustration and resentment to self-criticism or defensiveness. How assistive technology can help Assistive Technology bridges the gap between what a child knows and what they’re able to communicate. “It makes things easier,” says What is assistive technology? speech and language pathologist Alexa Assistive technology is any product, equipment, Brigante, who specializes in assistive technoloor system that helps a person with disabilities gy. “When kids have the right support, you can better manage their daily life. It can help with really see more of their true potential and who everything from getting ready every morning to they are on the inside.” learning in school to participating in activities. If a child is struggling with writing, a keyboard “With assistive technology, there are low-tech can help. “When handwriting is difficult, it and high-tech options,” says occupational requires tremendous concentration and is therapist Lindsey Biel of Sensory Processing exhausting,” Biel explains. “So, it’s much easier Challenges. In your home, low-tech options for them to learn how to type than to learn all could include a checklist for a child’s morning those letter formations.” routine. High-tech options could include an electronic device with alarms and reminders of Assistive technology can help kids with complex needs what to do next. For children who have complex challenges, There are low-tech and high-tech options assistive technology can be tailored to meet available for children in the classroom, too. “Examples of low-tech are slant boards, easels, very specific needs. and pencil grips to assist with writing,” Biel For example, while a child might benefit from explains, “while high-tech options are iPads, using voice dictation because they struggle to laptops, and dictation software.” write by hand, they might also have a speech disorder that impedes their ability to fully use Who can benefit? that general program. One solution could be an Any child who struggles to do a task or use app called TouchChat, which allows them to materials in the same manner as their classtouch various images or text (depending on mates can benefit from assistive technology. their age and reading ability) to create phrases While a child doesn’t need a diagnosis, there or sentences that the app then says aloud. are certain challenges that benefit from Making assistive technology work for your assistive technology support in school, child including: • Executive functioning challenges, including Assistive technology, though helpful, isn’t a standalone solution. “Assistive technology is a distraction, emotional control, impulse control organization, task initiation, working bridge, but therapy builds the underlying foundational skills,” Brigante explains. “Techmemory nology is a supplement to be used when • Writing difficulties, such as the physical appropriate.” ability to write or express yourself clearly, note-taking Assistive technology should grow with your • Gross or fine motor delays or impairments child. The tools kids need to succeed may • Hearing and vision impairments change as they get older and learning becomes • Speech and language impairments more complex. Kids should be reevaluated • Mathematical challenges annually to make sure the technology they’re • Reading difficulties including comprehenusing is still working and to explore other sion, decoding, fluency, or spelling potential tools that might be necessary or beneficial. Often as kids get older and take Assistive technology can also help children manage emotional difficulties that interfere with more advanced courses, they need new tools to access their education. j their ability to learn or participate in the classroom. For example, if your child’s anxiety is so overwhelming that they’re focusing on the childmind.org stress instead of the teacher, apps like pecialized tools can help kids with learning disabilities overcome obstacles, enabling them to learn more and have more positive experiences in school. It’s called assistive technology, or AT, and it can give kids who struggle with reading, writing, or speaking ways to express themselves, show what they know, and keep up with classmates.

APRIL 2022 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 10

Things to Do

sa Winn for a live Q&A. As homeschool veterans, they can help answer your questions as well as offer encouragement and practical tips on your homeschool journey. HSLDA Sensitive Bunny at the Orange Park Mall is a non-profit advocacy organization that April 3, 10am to 11:30am makes homeschooling possible by protecting Between the lights, music, and crowds, homeschool freedom and equipping families seeing the Easter Bunny can be overstimto provide the best educational experience ulating for children with special needs. for their children. Families are invited for a sensory-friendly Home School Legal Defense Association / Sensitive Bunny event. This gives families the 540-338-5600 / info@hslda.org / hslda.org opportunity to take a photo with Bunny in a stress-free environment outside of property Retro Diner Hour operating hours. Register only one ticket April 13, 5pm to 6pm per family. Please plan to arrive during the Adults with autism spectrum disorder will designated time you registered for. Located have the opportunity to engage in facilitated in the JCPenney Court. Orange Park Mall / social conversations via Zoom. This event will 904-269-2422 / 1910 Wells Rd, Orange Park, temporarily take the place of the Breakfast FL 32073 / orangeparkmall.com Club Meetings during the COVID-19 pandemic. Center for Autism and Related Disabilities CARD Adult Resource and Support Group / 904-633-0760 / pediatrics.med.jax.ufl April 6, 5pm to 6pm CARD-Jacksonville runs a resource and Mommy, Me, and My IEP • April 13, 6pm support group for constituents who are ages Hear from a local mom and child advocate 18 and older where participants can learn, as she shares her journey through navigatshare, and understand one another through ing the development, implementation, and common, comparable experiences and revision process of her son's Individualized receive helpful guidance. All conversations Education Plan (I.E.P.). The Parent Academy of facilitated via Zoom. UF Health Jacksonville Duval County Public Schools is a free family CARD / 904-244-3131 / bernardo.cuadra@ resource that promotes parental involvement, jax.ufl.edu / med.jax.ufl.edu enhances student achievement, and supports a caregiver's need for personal and individual Bridge of Life Church Special Needs Easgrowth. This course is held online. ter Egg Hunt • April 9, 11:30am to 12noon Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / Bridge of Life Church is partnering with Abil- dcps.duvalschools.org ity Tree First Coast for a special needs Easter Egg Hunt. The event is free and open to the Dadvocate Support Group community. There will also be games, food, April 19, 5:30pm to 6:30pm face painting, prizes, and Easter Egg Hunts A Male Caregiver Support Group co-hostfor grades 5 and younger. ed by the UF Health Jacksonville CARD Bridge of Life Church / 904-600-4153 / 96 and FLDRS-MDC with the goal of helping Masters Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / strengthen the relationship between child www.mybridgeoflife.com and parent while learning about resources and supports from professionals and other Sensory Towne's Caring Easter Bunny & parents. Held online via Zoom. Egg Hunt • April 10, 12noon to 2pm UF Health Jacksonville CARD / 904-633Sensory Towne hosts Caring Easter Bunny 0760 / brett.walden@jax.ufl.edu / pediatrics. & Egg Hunt event. There will be storytime, med.jax.ufl.edu crafts, visits with the Bunny, and an Easter Egg Hunt. Cost is $30 for non-members and Annual Walk the Talk for Epilepsy $20 for members. Advanced registration is April 30, 9:15am required. Come help spread epilepsy awareness, walk Sensory Towne / 904-551-6443 / 8380 for a cure, and help support the Epilepsy Baymeadows Road Suite 6, Jacksonville, FL Foundation of Florida this spring. Registration 32256 / www.sensorytowne.com is at 8am, and the walk begins at 9:15am. There will be an award ceremony after the Q&A: Homeschooling a Child with Special walk. Visit the website for fundraising inforNeeds • April 13, 1pm mation and registration details. HSLDA, the Home School Legal Defense AsSouthbank Riverwalk / 877-553-7453 / 1001 sociation, hosts a free question and answer Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / session for families who have questions www.epilepsyfl.com about homeschooling a child with special needs. Join HSLDA Special Needs ConsulVisit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list tants Rochelle Matthews-Somerville and Kriof Special Needs events.

Special Needs Events

SUMMER CAMPS Amelia Island Kids Adventure Camp June 6 – July 27, 9am to 2pm Amelia Island Kids Adventure Camp is for kids ages 9-12 who would enjoy an immersive nature and skill building experience. Kids learn kayak skills, paddleboarding, and go on nature tours finding dolphins and other wildlife. The Adventure Camp goals are very simple: learn about nature, develop confidence building skills and have fun! Enrollment limited to 12 kids. Cost: $175 per child. 904-500-8687 / 432 South 8th St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 / ameliaadventures.com Aquatics Camp • June 13 – July 15 Owned and operated by the North Florida Council, Boy Scouts of America, the property is located at the St. Johns River Base at Echockotee sitting on Doctors Inlet in Orange Park. Aquatics Camp serves boys and girls ages 6-14. A camper’s day is filled with activities that bring them from the shores of Doctors Lake to the heights of the climbing wall and from the woods of the archery range to catching some air off the back of one of the wakeboard boats. Extended care available. Discounts for multiple weeks, siblings, & early registration by May 2, 2022.

904-269-2091 / 2513 Doctors Lake Dr, Orange Park, 32073 / www.aquaticscamp.org B3 STEAM Summer Camps June 6 – July 29, 9am to 4pm Half-day option available at other locations. Ages 5-12 and 8-14. This camp focuses not only on STEAM but also teaches soft skills, such as public speaking, teamwork, communication, creativity, and problem-solving. At B3, all the fun themes are focused on hands-on minds-on learning and are based on Science, Engineering/Technology, and Art & Personal exploration. Ready to know what it feels like to be a veterinarian & a doctor? Enroll in the Future Med camp! Excited about Minecraft gameplay? Enroll in the super educational Minecraft STEAM Mania camp! Ready to build robots & code them? Enroll in the Robotics, Drones & Coding camps! Always wanted to attend Hogwarts? Enroll in the Magical World of Wizards camp! Ready to build & code your own 3D games? Enroll in the Robolox camp! Bricks Bots & Beakers curricula have been designed by educators and have been proven by the test of time. River City Science Academy Mandarin Campus: 10911 Old St Augustine Rd, Jacksonville,

FL 32257 River City Science Academy Innovation: 8160 Baymeadows Way W, Jacksonville, FL 32256 908-247-6806 / tinyurl.com/jaxb3 Bach to Rock Summer Music Camps June 6 – August 5, Monday through Friday Full- and half-day options are available. Ages 7-17. B2R's unique method is based on the knowledge that students learn best when they join together to play the music they like the most. Their camps invite children to do just that: join a group, learn about music, and work toward a performance. For ages 7+, kids can join a band, singing group, or even learn how to be a recording engineer (ages 10+). Ages 4-7 are invited to tour the world through instrument exploration. These creative group activities foster teamwork, build self-esteem and encourage kids to become seasoned performers. Cost: $229-$329. 904-372-7766 / 2280 3rd St. S., Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / jacksonvillebeach.b2rmusic.com BeaTPAC Performing Arts Camp June 13 – 17 and 20 – 24, 9am to 3:30pm

Ages 6 to 14. BeaTPAC is a twoweek performing arts camp hosted at Creekside High School. All students take classes in theatre, dance, orff, and musical theatre. Older students get to choose specialized classes such as hip hop, improv, and acapella. The two-week camp ends with a showcase of the work campers have created! All prices are for the full two-week session and include a t-shirt as well as two snacks and one lunch per day. Early drop-off available beginning at 8:15 for no additional charge. 1 Camper: $380, 2 Campers: $690, 3 Campers: $1010. 100 Knight Lane, Saint Johns, FL 32259 / www.beatpac.com Bricks 4 Kidz Summer Camps June 6 – July 29, 9am to 4 pm Ages 5 +. Bricks 4 Kidz classes provide an extraordinary atmosphere for children, where they learn, build, and play – with LEGO® bricks. Programs are built around the Bricks 4 Kidz proprietary model plans, designed by engineers and architects, with exciting themes such as space, construction, and amusement parks. Their specially designed project kits

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Summer Camp Supervised Activities that teach

CONFIDENCE,DISCIPLINE, DISIPLINE, CONFIDENCE, andAND RESPECT! RESPECT! Fun & Safe! Well-Structured! Learn Karate! TOns of FUN!

www.KarateAmerica.info APRIL 2022 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 11

SUMMER CAMPS and theme-based models provide the building blocks for the Bricks 4 Kidz approach to educational play. At Bricks 4 Kidz, they believe that kids learn best through activities that engage their curiosity and creativity. Camps as low as $179 a week! Many popular themes based off of Minecraft, Transformers, Star Wars and much, much more! The Discovery School / 904-312-7621 / 102 15th St. S Jacksonville Beach 32250 / www. bricks4kidz.com/florida-jacksonville-westside Camp Discovery June, July & August 6:30am to 6:30pm At Camp Discovery, school-aged explorers spend the summer doing fun activities on campus and safely visiting exciting places all over the Jacksonville area. Expeditions include Jacksonville Zoo, St. Augustine Aquarium, Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens, and much more! Cost: $200/week and includes breakfast, field trips and snacks. thediscoverytreeacademy.com Oakleaf / 904-779-1770 / 7629 Old Middleburg Road, Jacksonville, 32222 Lic# C04DU0391 San Pablo / 904-619-8797 / 3232 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, 32224 / Lic# C04DU0350 Checkmate! The Knight School Chess Summer Camp June 6 – July 29 9am to 12pm / 1pm to 4pm / 9am to 4pm Kids from 6-12 years old of all skill levels are invited to join in this introduction into the world of rooks, pawns, kings, and queens. Chess campers will celebrate a new chess tactic each day with silly videos, music-driven puzzlers for prizes, colorful wristbands, chess movies, and clock slapping tourneys. Students exercise complex critical thinking skills in a friendly, supportive and fun camp environment. Camps start at $200 and All-Day Sessions start at $325. Camp locations are at The Discovery School, Jewish Community Alliance, Jacksonville Country Day School, San Juan del Rio and The Bolles School. 904-514-0569 / theknightschooljacksonville. asapconnected.com/ Children’s Art Classes Summer Workshops June 6 – July 22 Students may participate in a variety of weekly art workshops. Each workshop will meet each day, Monday through

Friday, for each selected week. Students may participate in as many as four different 5-Day workshops at Baymeadows location for a four-week period over the summer. The cost of each 5-Day workshop is $98 and includes all supplies. Each Workshop will require payment in full at the time of registration. www.childrensartclasses.com 904-612-7557 Baymeadows / 9802 Baymeadows Rd, Suite 14, Jacksonville, FL 32256 Beaches / 880 US Highway A1A North Suite Six, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 Conservation Camp May 30 – August 12, 9am to 3pm Conservation Camp is a unique way for kids to get firsthand experience of what a week in the shoes of a wildlife biologist is like. At camp, students will get to participate in hands-on STEM activities, wildlife surveys, environmental monitoring, habitat evaluations, outdoor hiking through Florida ecosystems, and various live animal encounters each day. Once a week, students will also embark on an adventure to Huguenot Memorial Park for a day filled with coastal system discussions, seine netting, shelling, and swimming. Cost is $299/week with discounts for The Rattlesnake Conservancy Canebrake Members and active military. 800-690-5638 / 7152 Lonestar Rd, Jacksonville, 32211 / www.savethebuzztails.org Cornerstone Christian School’s Summer Camp • June 6 – July 29 8am to 5pm Kindergarten - 11th Grade. Camp rates vary by age. Three years old: $130 per week + $40 registration fee. Four years old: $125 per week + $40 registration fee. Five through sixteen years old: $90 per week + $40 registration fee. Weekly field trips: vary by trip. Cornerstone has partnered with the Kids Hope Alliance to offer Summer Camp Scholarships to eligible students. Visit website for more information. 904-730-5500 / 9039 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32216 / www.csjax.org Diamond D Ranch Summer Camps June 20 – July 29 Day Camp: 8:30am to 5pm Ages 8-17. Opportunity to learn about horses and horsemanship. Camp is for both the beginner and those who already have some knowledge of horses. Day Camp Cost: $675 + tax per week. Lunch and snacks are provided. Overnight Camp: Begins Monday morning at

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$975 + tax per week. 904-289-9331 / 5903-1 Solomon Rd, Jacksonville, 32234 / www.diamonddranchinc.com

gym, lower-elementary STEM activities, as well as themed arts and crafts with an early literacy focus. They will be learning, and they won't even know it! Lunch is served each Duval County 4-H Summer Camps day at the Buck Student Center. An Episcopal Duval County 4-H camping opportunities pro- faculty member leads the activities. Location: vide great summer experiences for both 4-H MUNNERLYN CAMPUS. members and prospective 4-H youth! Summer Grades: Rising 3 - 8. The camp is co-ed, experiences include residential camps, day grades 3-5. Outdoor activities include disc camps, and state-level sponsored teen golf, kayaking, fishing, swimming, and archery. programs. Camps are affordable, educational, Indoor activities include gym, STEM in the experiential for boys and girls ages 5-18 and physics lab, and a game room. Lunch is range in topics and prices. served each day at the Buck Student Center. 904-255-7450 / 1010 N. McDuff Ave, JackAn Episcopal faculty member leads the activisonville, FL 32254 / http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/ ties and is helped by Episcopal's Upper School duval/4-h-youth-development/ students who serve as assistant counselors. Location: MUNNERLYN CAMPUS. Episcopal School of Jacksonville Day Camp Cost: (9am-3pm) $290/week, (9am-5:30pm) May 31 – July 29, 2022 $375/week. 9am - 3pm / 9am - 5:30pm 904-396-5751 / 4455 Atlantic Blvd, JacksonGrades: Rising K - 2. Lower-elementary Day ville, FL 32207 / www.esj.org/summer Camp introduces adventure and comradery in and out-of-doors to younger students. Good Lad Soccer Camps Outdoor activities include water activities, June 13 – July 22, 2022 along with time in the pool and field play, to 9am - 3pm emphasize gross motor movements essential Good Lad Soccer is proud to provide the only to being a little kid! Indoor activities include indoor soccer camps in Jacksonville and

SUMMER CAMPS 8:30am until Friday at 5pm. Overnight campers are provided with breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack, and supper and dessert. Your child will sleep in an air-conditioned bunkhouse, complete with restrooms and shower facilities. Overnight Camp Cost: $975 + tax per week. 904-289-9331 / 5903-1 Solomon Rd, Jacksonville, 32234 / www.diamonddranchinc.com Duval County 4-H Summer Camps Duval County 4-H camping opportunities provide great summer experiences for both 4-H members and prospective 4-H youth! Summer experiences include residential camps, day camps, and state-level sponsored teen programs. Camps are affordable, educational, experiential for boys and girls ages 5-18 and range in topics and prices. 904-255-7450 / 1010 N. McDuff Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32254 / sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/duval/4-h-youth-development Episcopal School of Jacksonville Day Camp May 31 – July 29 9am to 3pm & 9am to 5:30pm Grades: Rising K-2. Lower-elementary Day Camp introduces adventure and comradery in and out-of-doors to younger students. Outdoor activities include water activities, along with time in the pool and field play, to emphasize gross motor movements essential to being a little kid! Indoor activities include gym, lower-elementary STEM activities, as well as themed arts and crafts with an early literacy focus. They will be learning, and they won't even know it! Lunch is served each day at the Buck Student Center. An Episcopal faculty member leads the activities. Location: Munnerlyn Campus. Grades: Rising 3-8. The camp is co-ed. Outdoor activities include disc golf, kayaking, fishing, swimming, and archery. Indoor activities include gym, STEM in the physics lab, and a game room. Lunch is served each day at the Buck Student Center. An Episcopal faculty member leads the activities and is helped by Episcopal's Upper School students who serve as assistant counselors. Location: Munnerlyn Campus. Cost: (9am-3pm) $290/week, (9am5:30pm) $375/week. 904-396-5751 / 4455 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www.esj.org/summer Good Lad Soccer Camps June 13 – July 22, 9am to 3pm Good Lad Soccer is proud to provide the only indoor soccer camps in Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra in a brand new venue, Jax Skyline

Sports. As with previous years, camps will be organized into multiple age groups ranges from 8-13 years old. Cost: $350 per week or $275 per week for half-day participation. 10% discount for siblings. 10% discount for multiple-week sign-up. 904-240-2572 / 7022 AC Skinner Pkwy, Jacksonville, 32256 / www.goodladsoccer.com

for five days of camp, 3 hours per day. 904-742-5906 / 14035 Beach Blvd, Suite 6, Jacksonville, 32250 / jaxcookingstudio.com

JCA Summer Camps June 13 – August 5 Ages 2-16. JCA Summer Camps provide a wide range of engaging activities to enrich your child’s summer experience. There are Jacksonville Country Day School Summer multiple camps throughout the summer to Camps • June 6 – July 29, 9am to 3pm choose from, including Camp Gan Yeladim, Extended day available. Pre-K4 - 6th grade KinderCamp, Camp Sabra, Camp Habonim, (rising grade). Eight sessions, each lasting Camp Yalla, Theatre Camp, Camp Kaytana, one week. JCDS offers both Day Camp and a and Adventure Days. From arts and music to selection of Specialty Camps. The campers are unique Israeli programs, carnivals, concerts, placed into cabins according to the grade they science and sports, JCA Summer Camp offers will be entering in the fall. Specialty Camp top- more than just a place to spend summer days. ics include Chess, Art, Lego Robotics, Dance, It is a place for your child to learn and grow! Basketball, Yoga, and Academic refreshers. All 904-730-2100 / 8505 San Jose Blvd, Jackcampers will have daily outdoor time, access sonville, Florida 32217/ to the Smith Center Gym, and daily swim www.jcajax.org/camp time with their group. JCDS is committed to providing safe, fun, and developmentally Karate America appropriate programs throughout the summer. Multiple locations in Jacksonville Day Camp is $220 per one-week session, and June, July, and August Specialty Camps range from $300 to $400 per Convenient times and weekly camps all one-week session. summer long. Constructive fun and traditional 904-641-4166 / 10063 Baymeadows Rd, martial arts benefits. Safe structured environJacksonville 32256 / www.jcdssummercamp.com Jacksonville Science Festival Exploration Camp • June 20 – July 29, 8am to 5pm Summer EXPLORATION for ages 5-15. Activities include gardening, hands-on STEM activities, field trips, project-based learning, literacy/math, experiments, dance, visual and theatre arts and more. Lunch and snack provided. Cost: $175 per student/per week. 904-493-7300 / 3675 San Pablo Rd S, Jacksonville, 32224 / www.jacksonvillesciencefestival.com Jax Cooking Studio Cooking Camps May 31 – August 12 Two camps available each week: 9am to 12pm & 1:30pm to 4:30pm Ages 6-16. JAX Cooking Studio Summer Camps are sure to be a highlight of your child’s summer! They teach kids basic culinary skills while they work in small groups of two to three to cook the day’s recipes. Each week features a different camp theme, so your child can choose the topic of most interest. At the end of each day, campers eat the recipes they prepared. On Friday of each week, the kids show off their newfound skills by cooking their favorite recipe from the week or making their own recipe or creation. Cost: $330 per child

ment with knowledgeable supervision. Super fun summer camp teaches kids powerful life skills like focus, discipline and respect while learning cool martial arts moves. Diverse activities with physical games, movies, and fun! Kids will accelerate their training, enhance their skills, and have lots of fun! Space is limited. Call the location near you today to enroll early and save! www.karateamerica.info Museum of Science & History (MOSH) June 6 – August 5, 9am to 3pm K- 8th grade. Campers will spend their time in the classroom, in the museum, and outside in some instances for their camp. They will fill their day learning about the topic at hand through hands-on demonstrations, experiments, and crafts. Children will have free time to explore the museum exhibits and will be able to attend at least one science show, animal show, or planetarium show. Cost: $252/ week for MOSH members and $280/week for non-members. 904.396.MOSH (6674) / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, 32207 / www.themosh.org

For ages 7-14

In-Person Sessions! SESSION A:

2022

June 6-24 SESSION B:

July 11-29

www.theatrejax.com APRIL 2022 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 13

SUMMER CAMPS Next Step Broadway June 13 – 17, 9am to 5pm Ages 10-17. NEXT STOP BROADWAY® is a week-long musical theatre program consisting of classes, workshops, and rehearsals focused on the "Golden Age of Broadway". The staff of Broadway professionals teaches songs and choreography from classic Broadway productions and replicates the process of putting on an authentic Broadway show. It is a five-day intensive that focuses on being in the ensemble of a classic Broadway show! Camp tuition is $575 for the week and includes lunch, snacks, and a t-shirt. 904-632-5000 / 11901 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, 32246 / www.fscjartistseries.org Ozzie’s Playful Computing Summer Camp at UNF • June 6 – 24, 9am to 3pm Summer Coding Camp for 1st through 5th Graders. Two Cohorts; Code Critters (1st-2nd grades) & Code Creators (3rd-5th grades). This unique, research-backed coding camp was created specifically for early learners (1st through 5th graders) to learn the fundamentals and principles of computer coding using MIT’s Scratch program. Nutritious snacks and drinks provided; campers to bring their own lunch. Daily multimedia mailers showcasing student engagement and growth. Full Camp Experience: three-week camp - June 6-24 - $1,050 or one-week Summer Swoop-In Sessions: June 6-10, June 13-17, June 20-24, $350/ week. 1 UNF Drive - Tom and Betty Petway Hall STEM lab, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / www.unf. edu/coehs/nefstem/summer_camps.aspx Peak Level Performance Youth Fitness Summer Camp • June 6 – July 29, 8am to 12pm Ages 6-12. At Peak Level Performance, they love teaching kids that fitness is fun, and they are driven to help kids build a passion for staying active. Their mission is to inspire the younger generation to live healthy, active lifestyles as they mature. Fitness designed to improve: hand-eye coordination, stability and control and functional strength. Camp Cost: $200/week. 904-675-1516 / 1111 Durbin Creek Blvd, Fruit Cove, FL 32259 / www.peaklevelperformance.com River City Choral Festival & Day Camp June 6 – 10, 9am to 4pm Rising 4-8th graders. The Jacksonville Children’s Chorus is excited to announce the 3rd annual choral festival and summer day camp, River City Choral Festival. Enjoy a fun-filled

week of music, choral singing, and dance workshops! On the final day, all singers will perform in a concert showcasing what they have learned and experienced at the River City Choral Festival. Camp designed for treble voices (soprano and altos) ONLY. Early Bird Registration through April 30, 2022, 11:59 pm EST - $250. *Registration will increase to $350 on May 1, 2022. 904-353-1636 / 10131 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225 / www.jaxchildrenschorus.org Saltwater Cowgirls Surf Camp May 30 – August 12, 8:30am to 11:30am or 8:30am to 2:30pm Girls ages 7-17. What to bring: water bottle, snacks, a towel, flip-flops, and sunscreen. All students MUST know how to swim prior to coming to camp. Surfing is a very strenuous activity. All students must eat well and hydrate prior to participating. Surfboards are provided for each student but students may bring their own boards. Rash guards and board shorts are recommended. Cost: $220/week and $335 each. Co-ed weeks June 27, July 5, August 1. 904-238-4716 / 8th Ave North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / saltwatercowgirlssurf.com Skyhawks Sports Academy June 6 – July 29 Ages 4-14. Half and full days of camp in over 10 different sports, including Beginning Golf, STEM & Play Soccer, Flag Football fueled by USA football, and many more. Skyhawks provide a wide variety of fun, safe and positive programs that emphasize critical lessons in sports and life, such as respect, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Their programs are designed to give each child a positive introduction to sports while fostering a lifelong love for an active, healthy lifestyle. The patient and knowledgeable staff uses a variety of skill-building games and activities to give each athlete a complete understanding and overview of the sport. Cost: $149+ per camp. www.skyhawks.com Theatre Jacksonville Summer Camp Session A: June 6 – 24 Session B: July 11 – 29 9am to 2pm Ages 7-14. There are two sessions, each three-weeks long. Every day students will rotate through three theatrical arts areas (acting, dance, musical theatre), all in preparation for an original show that they produce at the end of the camp session. They hope to be able to

APRIL 2022 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 14

offer in-person audience opportunities in the very near future, but for now the show will be recorded during the camp session and an opportunity for all to view the recorded, finished product (including the performers) will be provided upon the conclusion of the session. Cost: $600 per camper, per session. 904-396-4425 X16 / Trotter Activities Center, 1936 Hendricks Ave, 32207 / www.theatrejax.com

TNT Gymnastics Summer Camp May 31 – August 12, 9am to 3pm Extended day hours: 8am to 9am & 3pm to 6pm Ages 5-13 (age five, attending kindergarten this fall). This is a sport development camp where every child will participate in gymnastics rotations focusing on new skill and position development. They will get to interact Tommy Hulihan’s Summer Sports Camp on all apparatus in the facility from vault, bars, June 6 – July 29, 8am to 3pm beam, rings, trampoline, pit, & more! When it's K-6th grade. Campers will participate in Team time to slow down and catch a breath, they Sports and age-appropriate activities including will have snacks, crafts, & lunch each day. basketball, soccer, flag football, kickball, tag Cost: $190/week. Register for any camp week games and more. Campers will be divided or multiple days. Multiple-week discounts into groups based on their age. All family and available. Extended day available. friends will be allowed to be grouped together 904-998-8681 / 2683 St Johns Bluff Road S. regardless of age. Campers must bring a lunch Unit #107, Jacksonville, 32246 / Monday – Thursday. On Fridays, campers will www.tntgymfit.com have a pizza lunch. Cost: $150/week. Daily rates are $35 Monday – Thursday and $40 for Friday (includes (Pizza Party on Fridays). Visit Jax4Kids.com online for a Extended care available. complete and always updated list of 904-349-2611 / Beaches Chapel Gym – 610 Summer Camps. Florida Blvd, Neptune Beach, FL 32266 / www.TommyHulihanBasketball.com

EDUCATION quite a bit of control, especially if you title the account in your name. You can get your money back at any point. Of course, that means it becomes part of your taxable estate again subject to your ost of us associate 529 accounts as college over $5 million per person by 2025. nominal federal tax rate, and you’ll have to pay an savings vehicles. They’re flexible, allowing additional 10% penalty on the earnings portion you to transfer assets to anyone, including yourself, The Framework of the withdrawal if you don’t use the money for for the express purpose of furthering the education Under the rules that uniquely govern 529s, you can your designated beneficiary’s qualified education of your beneficiary. But did you know that a 529 make a lump-sum contribution to a 529 plan up to expenses. can be a powerful estate planning tool, too? five times the annual limit of $16,000. That means you can gift $80,000 per recipient ($160,000 If your chosen beneficiary receives a scholarship for married couples) as long as you denote your or financial aid, they may not need some or all of Modern Estate Planning Not everyone is in a position to set aside money for five-year gift on your federal tax return and do not the money you’ve stashed away in a 529. You’ve got options here, too. the next generation without jeopardizing their own make any more gifts to the same recipient during that five-year period. However, you can elect to goals, but if you’re fortunate enough to do so, it’s give another lump sum after those five years are • You can earmark the money for other types of worth looking into your options. up. In the meantime, your investments have the education, like graduate school. luxury of time to compound and potentially grow. • You can change the beneficiary to another Specialized savings accounts, informally referred member of the family (ideally in the same to as 529s, could be at the top of your list. They generation) as many times as you’d like since have quite a few advantages for the beneficiaries, So, if you’re following along, that $160,000 gift per beneficiary won’t incur gift tax as long as you and most 529s have no time limits. This option is but there are benefits for the donors, too, given your spouse follow the rules. You’ll also whittle your particularly helpful if your original beneficiary the high maximum contribution limits and tax taxable estate by that same amount, potentially chooses not to go to college at all. advantages. reducing future estate tax liabilities. That’s because • You can take the money and pay the taxes contributions to 529s are considered a completed on any gains. Normally, you’d expect to pay a The special tax rules that govern these accounts gift from the donor to the beneficiary. penalty on the earnings too. But that’s not the allow you to pare down your taxable estate, case for scholarships. The penalty is waived potentially minimizing future federal gift and estate Other Benefits on amounts equal to the scholarship as long taxes. Right now, the lifetime exclusion is $12.06 Many people worry that gifting large chunks of as they’re withdrawn the same year the million per person, so most of us don’t have to money to a 529 means they’ll irrevocably give up scholarship is received, effectively turning your worry about our estates exceeding that limit. But control of those assets. However, 529s allow you tax-free 529 into a tax-deferred investment. Of that new threshold is due to revert back to just

course, you can always use the funds to pay for other qualified education expenses, like room and board, books, and supplies, too.

529 College Savings Plans

Plus, many plans offer you several investment choices, including diversified portfolios allocated among stocks, bonds, mutual funds, CDs, and money market instruments, as well as age-based portfolios that are more growth-oriented for younger beneficiaries and less aggressive for those nearing college age. Bottom Line Saving for college takes discipline, as does estate planning. Talk to your professional advisor about the nuances of different investment strategies and vehicles before making a years-long commitment.

Sources: Mercer; Broadridge/Forefield Leslie Dix-Kwiatek, AAMS®, WMS® Financial Advisor Wealth Management Specialist Raymond James® 245 Riverside Avenue, Suite 500 Jacksonville, Fl 32202 Direct: 904-348-5403 Toll Free: 800-363-9652 Fax: 904-858-4086

APRIL 2022 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 15

Voters to decide on funding for teachers and student programs The Duval County School Board has passed a resolution to ask voters on Aug. 23 to approve a 1-mill increase in property taxes, mostly to give teachers and staff competitive pay and to improve arts and athletics programs for students. The resolution now goes to the Jacksonville City Council, which has the role of formally placing it on the ballot. “There’s never a good time, but this is the right time,” Board Chairman Darryl Willie said in wrapping up a long discussion. “We are simply giving the community the opportunity to vote. We have to honor our experienced teachers and do whatever we can to retain them.” At the board meeting, Superintendent Dr. Diana Greene presented facts and rationale for the additional revenue, mostly focused on the national and local teacher shortage. She reported that the district’s vacancy rate hovers around 400 classroom teaching positions, leaving many classrooms with substitutes, administrators, or teachers forced to double-up in responsibilities. That, along with the stress of the past two years with the pandemic and remote learning, has placed teachers and staff under more pressure than usual.

She pointed out that 20 Florida districts have passed similar measures. According to the state Department of Education, Duval County ranks 40th out of 69 districts in Florida for average teacher salary and ranks last out of the seven largest urban districts. The hourly wage for paraprofessionals ($15) ranks below cashiers and warehouse workers in the region. Dr. Greene recommended that funds from the 1 mill also be used to enhance art, music, and athletic programs. She further explained that under state law, public charter schools would receive a proportionate share of funds raised through the 1 mill tax, based upon enrollment. It is estimated that the 1 mill will generate about $82 million a year for the district and cost the homeowner of a $225,000 home about $17 a month after the homestead exemption is applied. One mill equals $1 for every $1,000 of home value. The half-penny sales tax that was passed overwhelmingly by voters in 2020 can only be used for facility maintenance, repairs, and renovation. The money raised for the proposed property tax can be used for operations, which includes teacher and staff compensation and educational programs like arts, music, and athletics. Dr. Greene emphasized that all of the funding raised by the 1 mill would stay in Duval County and not be shared with state or federal governments. The entire resolution and answers to frequently asked questions are available at www.duvalschools.org/vote.

Students learn about STEM, space through live chat with astronaut Recently, students across the district had a chance to learn more about space exploration through a live chat with astronaut Laura Shepard Churchley, a passenger on a recent Blue Origin space flight and the daughter of Alan Shepard, the first American to fly into space. Chaffee Trail Elementary was chosen to host the live broadcast because its team of fifth-grade students won the Space Mailbox design and engineering competition held at MOSH in February. The team, sporting NASA flight suits and helmets, unveiled their winning prototype, an astronaut-shaped mailbox, during the broadcast. Churchley talked with students about what it was like to watch her father train for his 1961 voyage into space and shared that she has a special connection to the school because she grew up with the children of the school’s namesake, astronaut Roger B. Chaffee. The Chaffee Trail student team joined Churchley and Blue Origin rocket engineer Caroline Weeks on stage to answer questions from students, including how the students were able to work together to design their mailbox, what kind of data is collected on

space flights, and how to become an engineer. Weeks shared her path to becoming a manufacturing engineer, including her early fascination with Legos, and encouraged students to consider the many exciting jobs that exist in the

STEM field. “Many different career paths are involved in sending a spaceship up,” said Weeks. “Programmers, scientists, mechanics, and even artists are involved.” The live chat was presented through a collaboration with STEM2Hub and Blue Origins/Club for the Future, an Amazon non-profit, and livestreamed into classrooms across the district through TEAMS so that all students had the opportunity to participate and ask questions of the speakers.

Students encouraged to dream big, learn about entrepreneurship at John E. Ford during visit with noted author Students participating in the Future Entrepreneurs Club at John E. Ford Pre-K – 8 Montessori School had the chance to receive advice and guidance about being an entrepreneur from children’s book author and youth motivational speaker Ty Allen Jackson this week. Jackson encouraged the group to consider entrepreneurship as another

option for having a successful future, stressing that anyone can become an entrepreneur no matter their age, education, or circumstance. This includes children just like them. “You’re responsible for your own success,” said Jackson. “With belief in yourself and hard work, you can accomplish anything.”

APRIL 2022 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 16

Students shared their ideas for potential businesses and asked many questions, such as how to take their love for animals and turn it into a business and how do business owners pay taxes. Jackson answered the questions and shared that it was important for them to read books and become experts about the fields they were interested in.

The John E. Ford Future Entrepreneurs Club is for students in third through seventh grade and includes 17 meeting sessions. Ty Allen Jackson’s visit was sponsored by the Kids Hope Alliance as part of their Celebrate Reading Week Events.

Clay County School News Congratulations Apple Award Winners

Green Cove Springs Mock Trial Green Cove Springs Junior High students participated in a mock trial event sponsored by the Honorable Fred Lewis, a retired Florida Supreme Court justice. This one-hour mock-trial presentation took place in a real courtroom inside the Clay County Courthouse, with Judge Gary Wilkinson presiding. This wonderful educational experience was organized by the office of Tara S. Green, Clay County Clerk of Court and Comptroller, whose Community Outreach and Historical Archives personnel are available to assist school groups year-round in partnership with law enforcement and the judiciary. This type of mock trial competition is facilitated statewide by the Justice Teaching Center for Civic Learning at Florida Southern College. The Center funds standards-based lessons for classroom use, including case materials for teachers and volunteers to use to simulate a civil or criminal trial. Students study the materials and reenact the case in the roles of lawyers, witnesses, and jurors in this experiential learning activity. Judges or lawyers assist by serving as the judge in the trial simulation. Interested in holding an event at or tour of the main courthouse, Old Jail, 1890 Historic Courthouse? Clerk of Court staff can help. Visit clayclerk.com for details.

April Calendar April 4 – 6, 3pm –7pm

Clay County Art Show – Secondary, Teacher Training Center, Fleming Island High School

April 7, 6pm – 9pm

Regular School Board Meeting, Teacher Training Center, Fleming Island High School

April 8

Fair Day, Student/Teacher Holiday

April 15

Good Friday, Student/Teacher Holiday

April 22

Interim Reports to Parents

April 23, 7am – 3pm

Math Field Day, Fleming Island High School

April 27

Early Dismissal – Elementary Schools

April 29 – May 1, 10am – 8 pm,

Elementary Art Show, Orange Park Mall

www.oneclay.net

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

Connect with us!

APRIL 2022 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 17

St. Johns County

School District News

ESE School Choice Options & Family Empowerment Scholarship Information ESE Students who wish to attend a school other than their home-zoned school have several options. Hardship Transfers K – 12: All District students, including students with disabilities, may participate in the District’s school choice plan. Visit the St. Johns County School District website for more information. Pre-K ESE Hardship Transfers: Pre-K ESE students may submit an out-ofzone request to the ESE Department. Out-ofzone requests are approved based on hardship, space available, and availability of the appropriate ESE services to meet the student’s needs. Transportation is not provided. Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities (FES UA) for Students with an IEP: Beginning July 1, 2022, the Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities is available for students with an IEP. This scholarship offers students with special needs the opportunity to attend a participating private school or an out-of-district public school if there is space available and your child’s IEP needs can be met at the school you are requesting.

Public School Transfers for Students with an IEP: If you are interested in public school choice in district, you must contact the ESE Department. Family Empowerment Unique Abilities zone transfers will be accepted during the following time periods: For semester 1 – request must be submitted by August 1 For semester 2 – request must be submitted by December 1 Please note that students eligible under Section 504, currently not participating in the John McKay Scholarship program, are not eligible for the Family Empowerment Scholarship for students with Unique Abilities for private school participation nor for public school zone transfers.

Lori Price Receives Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching Congratulations Ocean Palms Elementary School first-grade teacher Lori Price as a recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. The highest honor bestowed by the US government for K – 12 math and science teaching.

If you would like to submit a request for your child to be transferred to another public school, please complete the Public School Choice Form and return it to Danielle Compton, ESE Secretary. Requests can be sent via US Mail, fax to (904) 547-7544, or by sending an email to the St. Johns County School District office.

April Calendar of Events April 1, 5pm – 9pm

All County Art Show – Middle School, St. Augustine Art Association

April 4

Character Cup

*April 12, 6pm – 7pm

School Board Meeting, SJCSD Administrative Building

April 15

Holiday – Student/Teacher Holiday

April 18

Holiday – Student/Teacher Holiday

April 26

Interims Issued

*April 26, 6pm – 7pm

Special School Board Meeting, SJCSD Administrative Building

April 29

Crimestoppers Artwork Contest

*School Board Meeting, 40 Orange Street and via Webex, instructions to access this virtual meeting will be posted on the St. Johns County School District website, www.stjohns.k12.fl.us Visit St. Johns County Schools online at www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/schools for more information. APRIL 2022 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 18

Nassau County School District News Our Schools...Our Students...Our Future! The School Board of Nassau County 1201 Atlantic Avenue ▪ Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 (904) 491-9900 Telephone ▪ (904) 491-9874 Human Resources

www.nassau.k12.fl.us

Wildlight Elementary Read-A-Thon Wildlight Elementary students participated in their first-ever Read-A-Thon! Money was raised to support reading incentives and instruments for their music programs. Students enjoyed relaxing and reading in their pajamas while raising money for their school.

Instructional Recruitment Fair Saturday, April 23, 2022 * * * A t t e n d a n c e i s b y A p p o i n t m e n t On l y * * *

Wildlight Elementary School Cafeteria 550 Curiosity Avenue ▪ Yulee, Florida 32097

Come and Join a Winning Team in an “A” Rated, High Performing School District General Education & Special Education Teachers in all subject areas & grades, Psychologists, Social Workers, Speech Language Pathologists, Hearing/Visually Impaired Teachers & more.

REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED www.applitrack.com/nassau/onlineapp To register:

1.) Employment Application: Complete your employment application online through Applicant Tracking. 2.) Vacancy Desired (Page 4): Please check off any posted vacancies that you are qualified to hold. Under the category

Instructional Personnel Recruitment Fair, be certain to check JobID 1997 Instructional Recruitment Fair, this is the April 23, 2022 fair at Wildlight Elementary, by appointment only.

3.) Position Desired (Page 5): Please check off any future openings that you are qualified to hold and select the applicable number of years of experience in that role.

4.) Current Resume: Upload a copy of your current resume on Supplemental Materials (Page 16). Your resume must include a recap of your education (degrees earned, degree majors, name of school and date of graduation). If you are approaching your college graduation, please list the anticipated degree information.

April Calendar of Events April 2

Early Dismissal, See Individual School Schedules for Dismissal Times

April 6

Early Dismissal, See Individual School Schedules for Dismissal Times

April 13

Early Dismissal, See Individual School Schedules for Dismissal Times

April 14, 6pm – 6:30

School Board Meeting, Open Forum at Hilliard Middle Senior High School

April 14, 6:30pm

School Board Meeting, Hilliard Middle Senior High School

April 15

Teacher Planning – Half Day for Students

April 20

Early Dismissal, See Individual School Schedules for Dismissal Times

April 27

Early Dismissal, See Individual School Schedules for Dismissal Times

April 28, 6:30pm

School Board Meeting, District Office

April 29

School Holiday – No School for Students and Teachers

5.) Evidence of Certification: must be uploaded on Supplemental Materials (Page 16). If you are currently certified in the State of Florida – upload a copy of your certificate. If you are not currently certified in the State of Florida, upload evidence of an out of state certificate or Florida Statement of Eligibility.

Interviews will be scheduled in afternoon sessions on April 23, 2022

Connect with us @nassauschoolsfl

Visit www.nassau.k12.fl.us for more School District News APRIL 2022 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 19

TEENS

Things to Do

4 Conversations to Have with Older Kids and Teens About Their Screen Time Habits

lder kids and teens are spending more time using digital devices and social media than ever before. The increase in screen time causes many parents and caregivers to worry about how kids' online activities are affecting their physical, mental, and emotional health. A healthy relationship with screens depends on the types of activities kids are doing online as well as balancing screen time with other activities like sleep, connecting with family and friends, exercise, and time outdoors. Screen time limits for older kids and teens can be helpful – but how they are using screens (versus for how long) is even more important. Plus, family conflicts over screen time may be more harmful to children's mental health than the screen time itself. Try the tips and questions below to have conversations with older kids and teens about their screen time habits. 1. Show interest in what they're doing online. Try not to be judgmental about what kids and teens do online. If they sense you're truly interested, they'll be more open to sharing. If your older child or teen is reluctant to talk about what they're doing online, try signing up for one of the popular platforms (TikTok, Snapchat, etc.), then ask them to teach you how to use it. Understanding what kids and teens are doing online is the first step in guiding them toward healthy experiences.

examples, like checking your phone when you wake up or playing video games before bed.) • Do any of our habits get in the way of things like sleep, spending time with friends and family, or getting outside? • Are there any habits we should try to change? Why or why not? • Can you think of any specific times we could take breaks from our devices? 3. Talk about their emotional health. Help older kids and teens recognize how online activities make them feel. Many teens turn to social media and online resources for mental health support and to connect with friends. However, social media can also have negative effects on some teens, especially girls and teens experiencing depression. Ask: • How do you feel when you're on Instagram (or another app)? • Do you ever feel uncomfortable, worried, sad, or anxious? à If yes: What makes you feel that way? • Do you ever feel like you've spent too much time online? à If yes: When? à If no: Why not? • Do you ever feel pressured to be online? à If yes: When do you feel pressured? Why? à If no: Why not? 4. Talk about what to do when they have negative feelings or want to set new screen time habits. Talk through different strategies kids can try when they notice themselves feeling uncomfortable, worried, sad, or anxious when they're online. And remind them that they can always come to you (or another trusted adult) if they need help.

Ask: • What's your favorite app or game right now? • Can you show me how it works? • What's something you like about it? Why? • (For social platforms) What are your favorite accounts or people to follow? 2. Help them recognize their screen time Ask: habits. • Have you ever set time limits for yourself when you're online? Sometimes the habits kids have with their à If yes: How did that go? devices aren't the best for their health. The à If no: Do you want to try it? I could help. same goes for adults, too! Maybe screen time interferes with sleep, relationships, or learning. • Are there ways to connect with your friends in person more often to take the Talk about how we can use our devices in pressure off being online all the time? ways that feel in balance with other parts of • Do you know how to block someone on life. Share your own habits as examples to get your favorite apps? the conversation going. à If no: Can we look together and figure out how? j Ask: • What are some of our family's habits with commonsensemedia.org devices like phones or TV? (Share a few

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Teen Events

Teen Warehouse Mondays – Fridays, 2:30pm to 6pm Teens 13 to 18 are invited to participate in Teen Warehouse, a motivating program for middle and high school students. Activities include arts, community outings, games, study time, sports, and individualized programs. Special events and outings may require a fee. Located at several locations throughout Jacksonville. City of Jacksonville / 904-630-CITY / www.coj.net Balis / 904-255-6633 / 1512 LaSalle Street, Jacksonville, FL 32207 Emmett Reed / 904-858-1366 / 1093 West 6th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209 Henry T. Jones / 904-399-0615 / 3856 Grant Road, Jacksonville, FL 32207 Mary Lena Gibbs / 904-255-6636 / 6974 Wilson Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32210 Robert F. Kennedy / 904-630-0933 / 1133 Ionia Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206

prepare for the Algebra 1 or Geometry EOC exam. Families are encouraged to view this course together. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a free family resource that promotes parental involvement, enhances student achievement, and supports a caregiver's need for personal and individual growth. Duval Parent Academy / 904-3902960 / dcps.duvalschools.org Drop-In Teen Coffeehouse April 12, 4pm to 7pm Ages 13 and up are invited to hang out after school in the Teen Room. Every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month, join the staff of the Brown Eastside Library for a teen-only hangout. Whether you want to get a head start on your homework, play games, or just chill, all teens are welcome. No actual coffee included. Jacksonville Public Library, Brown Eastside Branch / 904-255-2665 / 1390 Harrison Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206 / jaxpubliclibrary.org

Chick-fil-A Homeschool Prom 2022 April 16, 7pm to 10pm Chick-fil-A Oakleaf and Middleburg are hosting their annual Homeschool Prom. Open to all homeschool students grades 9 Lifeguard Certification Course through 12. Tickets are $65 plus fees and April 1, 4pm-8pm; April 2, 9am-5:30pm; are available online in advance. This is a April 3, 9am-5:30pm- Jacksonville Golf formal black-tie event, and tickets must be and Country Club purchased in advance. The dress code will April 29, 4pm-8pm; April 30, 9am-5:30pm; May 1, 9am-5:30pm- San Jose Country Club be strictly enforced. Thrasher Horne Center / 283 College Drive, Orange Park, FL 32065 / This is a Lifeguard Certification Course to provide entry-level lifeguard participants with chickfila.ticketleap.com the knowledge and skills needed to prevent, recognize, and respond to aquatic emergen- FAFSA Workshop April 23, 9am to 1pm cies and to provide care for breathing and Teens are invited for a Free Application for cardiac emergencies, injuries, and sudden Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) workshop at the illnesses until emergency medical services University of North Florida. Participants will personnel take over. Registration is $225. receive more information on Financial Aid Upon successful completion of this course, and scholarships at UNF and will work on participants will receive an American Red the FAFSA one-on-one with a Financial Aid Cross certificate for Lifeguarding/First Aid/ counselor. Advanced registration is required, CPR/AED valid for two years. This is a and space is limited, so register in advance. Blended Learning course, combining online learning with the in-person classroom/swim- UNF Hicks Hall / 904-620-1000 / 4892 First Coast Tech Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / ming pool skills course. www.unf.edu Safety First Jacksonville / 904-434-6032 / safetyfirstjacksonville.com Adulting 101: Job Prep: Interviews Jacksonville Golf and Country Club / 3985 April 28, 2:30pm to 3:30pm Hunt Club Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32224 San Jose Country Club / 7529 San Jose Blvd, Teens and young adults, stop in for tips and tricks on acing your first interview. Learn how Jacksonville, FL 32217 to prepare for an interview, practice interview skills, and more. Free. Clay County Public LiPreparing for the Algebra 1 & Geometry brary, Green Cove Springs Branch / 904-278End-of-Course Assessments 3614 / 403 Ferris Street, Green Cove Springs, April 12, 6pm to 7pm FL 32043 / claycountygov.libcal.com This course provides an overview of the assessments, numerous question examples, problem-solving strategies, and test-taking Visit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list tips. Useful resources to help your student(s) of Teen events.

“Easter is meant to be a symbol of hope, renewal, and new life.” – Janine di Giovanni

Things to Do

PETS

Losing a Pet: A Roadmap for the 5 Stages of Grief

ne of the most difficult things about owning a pet is knowing that one day you will miss their unconditional love after they cross the rainbow bridge. When pet owners begin to develop anticipatory grief over the impending death of an animal, they often don't recognize what's happening to them. Colleen Rolland, president of the Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement, believes awareness of the stages of grief can provide a roadmap for pet parents of what to expect when death happens. "If you know what's coming down the pike, you'll be more prepared for it," Colleen explains, "Your feelings of extreme grief will be validated. Many people, immediately after the death of a pet, feel like they're going crazy because they seem to bounce back and forth between several intense emotions. These are all normal feelings that people go through as they process their grief. If they don't allow the feelings, if they press them down, they'll come out in another way.” 5 Stages of Grief Normally, when a pet dies, the first stage of grief involves shock, disbelief, and/or denial. This stage doesn't last long. "It's the mind's way of protecting us from the trauma we're feeling," says Colleen. "For a little while, your mind short circuits, and it can't deal with anything else.” Collen continued, “Stage two is anger, distancing, and alienation. Distancing and alienation can happen if, for example, you work in an organization and your loss isn't recognized by a supervisor or manager. It's important to remember that this is a very emotional time, and you want to be careful not to burn any bridges. The third stage is guilt, which is anger turned inwards. The guilt can be merited or unmerited, but it's almost always self-imposed. The fourth stage is depression. You can feel such terrible sadness that you may not want to get out of bed. If your overwhelming sadness becomes chronic, then you should seek professional counseling.”

And finally, “The final stage is resolution, which is marked not by letting go of the memory of your animal, but of the heavy, awful sadness that filled your heart in earlier stages. It's realizing that your pet gave you a part of themselves, and death can never take that away. Once you reach resolution, you can still have teary episodes, but if you're reverting to an earlier stage and being triggered, it means you probably haven't fully processed the loss.” Getting Unstuck It's important to understand that if you commit to doing what's necessary to address your pain, there will be a positive outcome. You don't have to stay stuck where you are. Don't give up hope, and don't resolve to feel this way forever out of fear that addressing your pain won't help. Where to Go for Support If you'd like more information about pet grief and loss, the Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement website has a wealth of content, a directory of services for pet loss grief specialists and counselors, chaplains, in-home euthanasia veterinarians, and a chat room where you'll be surrounded by "animal people" who share your feelings and can offer support. "What I find particularly helpful to many people is writing a letter to their pet," says Colleen. "You don't have to do it on one sitting, but write about what you loved about them, and be specific. Then you can go back and review it and revise it as often as you want. You can also write a letter from your pet to you. What would they say to you? What would they say about the care you gave them? What would they want for you? Just the process of putting pen to paper or fingers to the keyboard can be so therapeutic, and research shows that it's very beneficial." j healthypets.mercola.com

Pet Events

8th Street Pup Crawl April 3, 11am to 3pm Fernandina Beach Main Street will hold the first 8th Street Pup Crawl full of treats and more. Tickets are $20 each in advance or $25 at the door and include one bandana for your pet, a wristband for drink specials, a map of locations, and free golf cart shuttles between locations. Additional bandanas can be purchased with tickets. More than 12 businesses will provide discounts, drink specials, and treats for your four-legged friends. Registration will begin at 11am at First Love Brewing. Public parking spaces are available on adjacent roads and at Central Park. Donations for Cats Angels and Nassau Humane Society will be collected at registration. First Love Brew Pub / 904-624-7147 / 22 South 8th Street, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 / www.fernandinamainstreet.com Besties and Bunny at the Orange Park Mall • April 4, 5pm to 7pm Pet owners are invited to bring their pets to the JC Penney Court for photos with the Easter Bunny. Orange Park Mall / 904269-2422 / 1910 Wells Rd, Orange Park, FL 32073 / orangeparkmall.com 9th Annual DogFest Jacksonville April 9, 12noon to 4pm DogFest is the national signature event for Canine Companions for Independence. Funds raised through the walk and festival help support the mission to provide highly trained assistance dogs to children and adults with disabilities free of charge. In addition to the walk, there will be festivities, inspiring speakers, dog demonstrations, music, food, and more. Participants can join a team, create a team, or register as an individual. When registering, be sure to indicate if you are bringing a dog to get your free DogFest dog bandana. Registration is free. Donations and fundraising are encouraged. Seawalk Pavilion / 707-577-1700 / 75 1st Street North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / canine.org Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp Canines and Crustaceans Dog Day • April 24, 3:05pm The Jumbo Shrimp and Forever Vets Animal Hospital welcome you and your canine com-

panion to 121 Financial Ballpark. Canines get in free as long as their human companion buys a ticket. Dog-free seating is located in section 110-111 and the Wheelhouse Lounge and the Haskell Suite Level. Please note, there will not be any kiddie pools set up, so be sure to bring a bowl for your four-legged friend. The Jumbo Shrimp will be playing the Gwinnett Stripers. Single game tickets start at $5. 121 Financial Ballpark / 904-358-2846 / 301 A Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / jaxshrimp.com 2022's Hopping Into Fun with Mugu's Pet Resort April 22, 10am to 4pm; April 23, 9am to 5pm; April 24, 8:30am to 2:30pm Mugu's Pet Resort hosts a Hopping Into Fun Dock Diving Event. Dock Diving is one of the fastest growing sports for dogs. This event will have an independent Facility Finals. The finals will not count towards NADD jumps (averages, rankings, etc.) Participation costs are $23 per dog in advance and $28 per dog on-site. Day of Show entries may be available until limits are reached: 45 dogs per Splash (Distance Jump), 14 dogs per Splash (Air Retrieve). In addition, a NADD Registration Number is required to enter. Numbers can be purchased online for $35. Mugu's Pet Resort / 912-882-1857 / 10573 Colerain Rd, St. Marys, GA 31558 / www. muguspetresort.com Woofstock • April 23, 11am to 11pm Woofstock is a day of peace, music, and dogs. Free to attend. There will be activities for all ages at Woofstock, including several of the area’s best vendors, food trucks, and some of the best artists/bands in the region. The festival is dog-friendly, so be sure to bring your fur baby. General admission is free, and VIP tickets are $100. The VIP experience includes free drinks (beer/wine/soda/ water), free food catered from local restaurants, VIP-only areas with private air-conditioned restrooms, elevated viewing area, VIP-only entrance, and VIP parking lot. Kanine Social / 904-712-6363 / 580 College Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.kaninesocial.com Like Jax4Pets.com’s Facebook page at facebook.com/jax4pets to find out about other events for pets.

“Remember that children, marriages and flower gardens reflect the care they get.” – H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

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EASTER & PASSOVER EVENTS Easter Bunny Photo Experience at Orange Park Mall • Thru April 16 Orange Park Mall’s Easter Bunny Photo Experience will give families the opportunity to capture special springtime memories. Children can visit with the Easter Bunny, and parents are welcome to purchase professional photos of the occasion. Complete schedule of the Easter Bunny Photo Experience is available online. Held in the JC Penney Court daily except Sundays. Orange Park Mall / 904-269-2422 / 1910 Wells Road, Orange Park, FL 32073 / orangeparkmall.com Mommy & Me Easter Handprint Event April 2, 11am to 12noon Color Me Mine hosts a Mommy & Me Handprint Event. This event is open to moms, dads, grandparents, or any adult caretaker and toddlers and preschoolers. Only one child and caretaker per registration. Price includes storytime, a rimmed salad plate, an egg, and studio fee for one child and adult helper. Afterwards, stay and paint some more pottery; the event fee covers your child's studio fee for the day. Cost is $30. Color Me Mine / 904338-9333 / 10300 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / jacksonville.colormemine.com Virtual Easter Egg Hunt at Ravine Gardens State Park • April 9-13 Enjoy exploring Ravine Gardens while searching for ten Easter eggs hidden throughout the park. Take photos of the eggs you find and submit them electronically to the park for a chance to win prizes. A kick-off event will be held on April 9 from 8am to 11am. You do not need to attend the kick-off event to participate. Up to ten entries (one photo of each numbered egg found) allowed per household. Pictures must include an identifying item (i.e. family member, set of keys, a piece of paper with your name on it, etc.), in order to be entered into the chance drawings. Photos must be received by 5pm, April 13, 2022, to be entered into drawings. Free with park entry of $5 per vehicle, or $2 per person. Ravine Gardens State Park / 386-329-3721 / 1600 Twigg Street, Palatka, FL 32177 / www.floridastateparks.org Bridge of Life Church: Easter Eggstravaganza 2022 • April 9, 10am to 12noon Bridge of Life Church hosts an Easter Eggstravaganza. There will be games, food, face painting, prizes, and more. Easter Egg Hunts will be divided into age groups, with first grade and younger going from 10:30am to 11am and 2nd grade to 5th grade from 11am to 11:30am. From 11:30am to 12noon, the church is partnering with Ability Tree First Coast for a special needs Easter Egg Hunt. The event is free and open to the community. Bridge of Life Church / 904-600-4153 / 96 Masters Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.mybridgeoflife.com Jacksonville Spring Fest • April 9, 10am to 3pm Jacksonville Business Connections & Dare to Hire Different invite the community to the Jacksonville Spring Fest. This event is to raise funds for local Dare to Hire Different organization. Activities include an Easter Bunny Meet & Greet, vendors, a bounce house, face painting, balloon art, food, music, and hidden eggs for kids to find. Free. Ford Field / 904-201-9590 / 300 E. Bay Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jacksonvillebusinessconnections.com JaxParks Eggstravaganza

April 9, 11am to 1pm Join JaxParks at the Boone Park South playground area for a free family event. There will be Easter Egg hunts, a fun zone, crafts, relay races, and more. Boone Park South / 904-630-2489 / 3725 St. Johns Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32205 / www.coj.net Easter Egg Hunt at Englewood Baptist Church April 9, 2pm Children are invited for a free event at Englewood Baptist Church. The afternoon features bouncies, snacks, prizes, and of course, the Easter Egg Hunt. A parent or guardian must be present the entire event. For ages 2 through 5th grade. Englewood Baptist Church / 904-737-5455 / 5675 Kennerly Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / englewoodbaptistchurchjax.com Palm Coast Egg'Stravaganza April 9, 10am to 1pm Families are invited for an Egg'Stravaganza. Activities include arts and crafts, balloon art, face painting, refreshments, carnival games, and pictures with the Easter Bunny. Booths from local organizations will be providing activities for children as well as giving out eggs after completing their activity. There is a chance to win more eggs at the Carnival Midway with games for kids of all ages where everyone wins. Please note, Carnival Midway tickets and photos may be purchased at the event via cash only. Palm Coast Central Park / 386-9862323 / 975 Central Avenue, Palm Coast, FL 32164 / palmcoast.gov World Golf Village Easter Bunny Meet & Greet April 10, 1pm to 4pm Elite Smiles Dentistry hosts a free Easter Bunny Meet & Greet in the World Golf Village area. There will be food, vendors, Easter basket giveaways, a bounce house, and more. Elite Smiles Dentistry / 904-201-4304 / 3043 International Golf Parkway, St. Augustine, FL 32092 / www.elitesmilesdentistry.com Christ Our Passover Seder 2022 April 15, 6:30pm to 9pm Christ Our Passover Seder 2022 is presented by Family Friday & led by Michael Hohman and other Pastors/Leaders in Jacksonville. Attendees will worship through the Passover Seder; along with fellowship and a display through Scripture and the traditional Haggadah – how Yeshua/Jesus is the Passover Lamb; celebrating the Death, Burial, and Resurrection of our King. Childcare is not provided for this event. Those 10 years and up may attend. All tickets are $25 regardless of age. Proceeds will go to Holocaust Survivor outreach in Israel. Grace Life Church / 904-410-8810 / 2960 Plummer Cove Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / michaelhohman.wordpress.com The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island Easter Bunny Breakfast • April 16, 8am Children are invited for breakfast with the Easter Bunny and the Springtime Fairy. Indulge in the buffet adorned with breakfast favorites, including a pancake station with assorted toppings, scrambled eggs, bacon, pastries, and more. Parents will receive a keepsake photo. Seating is limited for this event and this event is expected to sell out. Reservations are available only by advance ticketing. Tickets are $34 for ages 4 to 9 and $59 for ages 10 and up.

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The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island Salt Restaurant / 904-277-1100 / 4750 Amelia Island Parkway, Amelia Island, FL 32034 / www.ritzcarlton.com Cottontail Special April 16, 12noon, 2pm, 4pm The Georgia Coastal Railway hosts a Cottontail Special train excursion. Families are invited to ride the rails with Peter Cottontail and friends and participate in an old-fashioned Easter Egg Hunt. Be sure to bring a basket to collect Easter eggs. Train rides and excursions departing from Kingsland, Georgia. Tickets start at $23.50 per seat. Boarding begins 15 minutes prior to departure time. The Georgia Coastal Railway Kingsland Station / 904-370-3744 / 440 S. Lee Street, Kingsland, GA 31548 / thegeorgiatrain.com The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island Cottontail Tea Party • April 16, 11:30am Families are invited for a Cottontail Tea Party. The event is a Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island family tradition featuring an array of petite sandwiches and exquisite desserts. Tickets are $34 for ages 4 to 9 and $65 for ages 10 and up. The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island / 904-277-1100 / 4750 Amelia Island Parkway, Amelia Island, FL 32034 / www.ritzcarlton.com 4th Annual Hop Into Spring Fest April 16, 9am to 12noon The Easter Egg Hunt at Hop Into Spring Fest features vendors, food, music, an Easter Egg Hunt, a bounce house, face painting, and more. Preregister for the Easter Egg Hunt by selecting your start time. Arrive 10 minutes before your start time. Cost is $5 for the egg hunt. World Golf Hall of Fame / 904-217-5399 / 1 World Golf Place, St. Augustine, FL 32092 / www.jacksonvillebusinessconnections.com St. Augustine Easter Parade 2022 April 16, 9am This family-friendly parade is known as the Parada de los Caballos y Coches (Parade of Horses and Carriages) and has commemorated the Easter Holiday since 1956. St. Augustine’s Royal Family leads the parade followed by their entourage. There will also be clowns, drill teams, community floats, and marching bands as well as the Easter Bunny. The parade begins at the Old Jail Museum and continues on through the Historic District. Bring your blanket or chair and arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. Old Jail Museum / 904-8293800 / 167 San Marco Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.oldestcityeaster.org Easter Egg Hunts at Adventure Landing April 16, 9am to 11am Both area Adventure Landing locations host their Annual Easter Egg Hunts on the Mini Golf Courses with a visit by the Easter Bunny. St. Augustine Adventure Landing - There will be two Egg Hunts, one at 9am and one at 11am. Egg Hunt registration begins at 8:10am. There will be three age groups for the hunts for kids under 10. A $5 per child donation will benefit the American Red Cross Volunteer Life Saving Corp. Each hunt is followed by a charity raffle. Beaches Adventure Landing - There will be three Egg Hunts: 9am, 10am, and 11am. Egg Hunt registration begins at 8am. There are three age groups for each hunt for kids 12 and under. A $5 per child

donation will benefit the American Red Cross Volunteer Life Saving Corp. Each hunt is followed by a raffle. There will also be stay and play specials. From 9am to 2pm, enjoy Unlimited Mini Golf, Laser Tag, Go-Karts, Frog Hopper & Wacky Worm Rollercoaster for $19.99/person. Adventure Landing / www.adventurelanding.com St. Augustine Adventure Landing / 904-827-9400 / 2780 State Road 16, St. Augustine, FL 32092 Beaches Adventure Landing / 904-246-4386 / 1944 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 Atlantic Beach Annual Egg Hunt & Easter Parade April 16, 10am to 1pm Bring the little ones for the annual Egg Hunt at Jordan Park. Along with the egg hunt, activities include train rides, pony rides, a petting zoo, a bounce house, face painting, free food, treats, and a special visit from “Bunny.” Admission is free. Following the egg hunt, the Easter Bunny will take a ride through the community at 2pm. Jordan Park / 904-247-5828 / 1671 Francis Avenue, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 / www.coab.us River City Baptist Church: The Hunt April 16, 11am to 1pm The community is invited to River City Baptist Church for a Children's Easter Party: The Hunt. There will be games, food, face painting, and an Easter Egg Hunt. Free. River City Baptist Church / 904-724-8223 / 6801 Merrill Road, Jacksonville, FL 32277 / rivercitybaptist.church Jax Cooking Studio: Family Easter Brunch April 17, 10am to 12:30pm or 2pm to 4:30pm Celebrate Easter Day with your loved ones while making brunch favorites. Mimosas, sparkling cider, and coffee will be served during the cooking experience. The menu features Spring Mix Salad with Strawberry, Goat Cheese, and a Poppy Seed Vinaigrette; Eggs Benedict in Hash Brown Nests with Champagne Hollandaise Sauce; Million Dollar Bacon; and Berry and Cream Cheese Stuffed Brioche French Toast. Cost is $65 for adults and children 13 and older coming by themselves. Children 12 years old and younger with a registered adult are $45 (Max of two child tickets per registered adult, please). Adults registered with a child will make one recipe together. If you and your child would like to each make your own full recipe, please register for two adult tickets. Jax Cooking Studio / 904-3796220 / 14035 Beach Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / jaxcookingstudio.com St. Augustine Easter Promenade April 17, 1pm The Annual Easter Promenade celebrates the Easter holiday, St. Augustine history, and the local community. A promenade is a leisurely walk in a public place for pleasure or display. This event will have judges and prizes for Largest Family, Oldest Couple, Farthest from Home, Prettiest Hat, Most Original Hat, Best Dressed Little Boy and Little Girl, Best Dressed Mother/Daughter, and Best Dressed Father/ Son. Spectators and participants are encouraged to dress in their Easter finery. Free. Plaza de la Constitucion / 904-829-2333 / 170 St George Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.oldestcityeaster.org

Visit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list of Easter events.

THINGS TO DO Clay County Agricultural Fair • Thru April 10 The Clay County Agricultural Fair returns to Green Cove Springs thru April 10. There will be a 4H / FFA Youth Dairy Show, Prehistoric Dinosaur Display, free Kiddie Train Rides, Disc-Connected K9's World Famous Frisbee Dogs, concerts, and more. Concert tickets include gate admission. Concerts include Nelly & DJ BG, Warrant & Quiet Riot with Papercutt, Lorrie Morgan, Deana Carter & Colton Chapman, Tracy Byrd & Rodney Atkins with Brian Congdon, Shenandoah and more. Ride armbands and concert tickets are also available for purchase. April 1, 12noon to 12midnight – Fiesta Family Friday – $25 Armband Sold Until 8pm (does not include admission); Gate Admission: $30 for two adults and up to four children until 8pm April 2, 10am to 12midnight – Clay Ag Day April 3, 11am to 11pm – Clay Health Day – Gate Admission: $5 admission for Health Professional with valid employee badge April 4, 4pm to 11pm – Taste the Fair Day – Gate Admission: $7 admission with valid Winn Dixie receipt April 5, 4pm to 11pm – Our Fair Cares Day – Gate Admission: $5 Admission for a donated bag of canned goods, pet food/supplies, or school supplies. April 6, 4pm to 11pm – Senior + Inclusive Day – Gate Admission: Seniors free 12noon to 6pm April 7, 4pm to 11pm – VyStar Family Day – Gate Admission: BOGO VyStar Members April 8, 10am to 12midnight – Student Fair Day – Gate Admission: 17 & under free Admission from 10am to 12noon April 9, 10am to 12midnight – Celebrate Clay Day April 10, 11am to 9pm – Hero Day – $5 admission for police, firefighters, military, and teachers with valid ID. Discount for employee only. Clay County Fairgrounds / 904-284-1615 / 2493 State Road 16 W, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 / www.claycountyfair.org Playing with Light at MOSH • Thru April 24 Playing with Light is the newest exhibit at the Museum of Science and History. LIGHT is fundamental to our everyday lives. With so many applications from the apparent simplicity of vision, the beauty of rainbows or paintings, to the high-tech world of fiber optic communication, holographic security and laser surgery, light provides the basis for much of our technology and our view of the world. PLAY is a means to ignite the imagination for people of all ages. Open ended and without instruction, it offers the opportunity for exploration and creativity, but most importantly, it enables learning through experimentation, a key tenant of the scientific process. In drawing together PLAY and LIGHT, Scitech has created an exhibition experience like no other. Using basic physics principles, innovative interactive experiences, and a sense of fun, Playing with Light offers the opportunity to explore our world and how it is illuminated through 21 exhibits with a multitude of outcomes. Museum of Science and History / 904-396-6674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org Disney On Ice Presents Dream Big April 1, 7pm; April 2, 11am, 3pm, 7pm; April 3, 1pm, 5pm Disney On Ice returns to Jacksonville with Dream Big as part of a multi-city tour. Dream Big features favorite Disney friends such as Mickey, Miguel, Moana, Elsa, Anna, Belle, Aladdin, Jasmine, Genie, and more. Tickets start at $15. Veterans Memorial Arena / 904-630-3900 / 300 A.

Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.disneyonice.com Annual Springing the Blues • April 1-3 Springing the Blues is a three-day family-friendly music festival that celebrates the blues at the oceanfront Seawalk Pavilion in Jacksonville Beach. There is no admission charge, and there will be food and kid’s activities. VIP tickets are available for purchase. Seawalk Pavilion / 904-270-9301 / 1st St North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / www.springingtheblues.com Anastasia April 1, 8pm; April 2, 2pm and 8pm; April 3, 1:30pm and 7:30pm Inspired by the beloved films, the romantic and adventure-filled new musical Anastasia comes to Jacksonville. Anastasia features a book by celebrated playwright Terrence McNally, a new score by Stephen Flaherty (music) and Lynn Ahrens (lyrics) based on original direction by Tony Award® winner Darko Tresnjak with choreography by Peggy Hickey and tour direction by Sarah Hartmann. Tickets range from $45.50 to $111.50. Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts / 904632-5000 / 300 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.fscjartistseries.org IKEA Family Member Day April 3, 10am to 5pm MOSH has partnered with IKEA Jacksonville for IKEA Family Day at the Museum. IKEA Family members save $3 on adult tickets and get early access to the Museum at 10am on the first Sunday of each month. MOSH / 904-396-MOSH / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Worcester Red Sox • April 5 – 10 Single game tickets start at $5, with multi-game and group packages available. Section 108 F-Q is a designated Family Section, with no alcohol allowed. Saturday Night’s game includes fireworks and after Sunday’s games, kids can run the bases after the games. There will also be free face painting and balloon animals. April 5th is opening night, and there will be post-game fireworks. 121 Financial Ballpark / 904-358-2846 / 301 A Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / jaxshrimp.com JaxParks Movie Night – Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway • April 8, 8pm JaxParks hosts a movie night for the community. There will be a free showing of the movie Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway, rated PG. In addition, there will be free popcorn. Be sure to bring chairs and blankets. Boone Park / 904-630-2489 / 3700 Park Street, Jacksonville, FL 32205 / www.coj.net MOCA Jacksonville Kids Art Lab April 9, 12noon to 1:30pm Kids Art Lab is now offered as an in-person program at MOCA for artists ages 6 to 10. Hosted the second Saturday each month, Kids Art Lab encourages your young artist to make cross-curricular connections with Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. Attendees will visit the galleries to see how artists are inspired by STEAM topics and create their own artwork to take home inspired by the monthly theme. April's theme is Botanical Beauty. Attendees will be inspired by the structure and colors of plants to

create their own artwork about nature. General registration is $10, with discounts for members. MOCA Jacksonville / 904-620-4204 / 333 N Laura Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / mocajacksonville.unf.edu Isle of Faith UMC Palm Sunday Festival April 10, 11am to 1pm Isle of Faith United Methodist Church hosts a Palm Sunday Festival. The community is invited for this free event that features bounce houses, crafts, games, food, and more. Isle of Faith United Methodist Church / 904-2211700 / 1821 San Pablo Road South, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / iofumc.org Mandarin Art Festival April 16 from 10am to 5pm; April 17, from 10am to 4pm Following a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Mandarin Art Festival will return on Easter weekend. Bringing together more than 100 local and national artist exhibitors, the festival also features food vendors, children’s activities, live musical entertainment, a Children’s Art Show, a Green Market featuring locally produced consumables, and more. Mandarin Community Club / 904-268-1622 / 12447 Mandarin Road, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / www.mandarinartfestival.org Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Gwinnett Stripers • April 19-24 Single game tickets start at $5, with multi-game and group packages available. Section 108 F-Q is a designated Family Section, with no alcohol allowed. Saturday Night’s game includes fireworks and after Sunday’s games, kids can run the bases after the games. There will also be free face painting and balloon animals. 121 Financial Ballpark / 904-3582846 / 301 A Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / jaxshrimp.com

fee for a table for four people; booth style seating. To avoid sitting with strangers, you must purchase the entire table. Children under the age of 2 ride for free in the lap of a paid adult. Gratuities are not included in the ticket price. Boarding begins 15 minutes prior to departure time. Georgia Coastal Railway, Kingsland Station / 904370-3744 / 440 S. Lee Street, Kingsland, GA 31548 / thegeorgiatrain.com Opening of the Beaches Parade April 24, 2pm to 4pm Celebrate the Opening of the Beaches with the Annual Opening of the Beaches Parade. Held in Downtown Jacksonville Beach; address below is for reference only. Jacksonville Beach Oceanfront / 904-2476236 / 503 1st St North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / www.jacksonvillebeach.org Steve Trash Science Live! April 29, 6:30pm Live show based on the PBS kid’s TV show, Steve Trash Science. Steve uses real science, kid comedy, music, and magic tricks to explain STEM – Science, technology, Engineering, Math related topics. Tickets for the family show ranges from $10 to $20. Nathan H. Wilson Center for the Arts / 904-632-5000 / 11901 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.fscjartistseries.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!

Harlem Globetrotters • April 22, 7pm The Harlem Globetrotters bring their show to Jacksonville for one show only. Tickets to the see the Globetrotters start at $20. Premium Experiences are available as add-ons. Options include Magic Pass, Celebrity Court Pass, and Player Meet & Greet. These are optional, and an admission ticket is also required. University of North Florida / 678-497-1900 / 11852 University of North Florida Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / www.harlemglobetrotters.com Orange Park Kids Fest 2022 April 23-24, 10am to 4pm The Town of Orange Park hosts Kids Fest 2022. The event features games and activities, displays, interactive shows, live music, food, and shopping. This event is designed with children 12 and younger in mind. Many activities are free, including train rides, a playground, mini-golf, a touch-a-truck zone, Junior Firefighter Academy, finger painting & sensory play, and an obstacle course. Other activities are premium activities and will require a wristband or ticket. Admission and parking are free. Parking will be at Moosehaven with a free shuttle. Town Hall Park / 904-278-3043 / 2042 Park Avenue, Orange Park, FL 32073 / opkidsfest.com Georgia Coastal Railway Pizza Express April 23, 4pm Ride the Pizza Express and get your choice of a 16" Cheese Pizza or 16" Pepperoni Pizza. Soft drink or water included. Price is $110.00 plus a processing

May 12 • Times-Union Center fscjartistseries.org

APRIL 2022 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 23

Jax4Kids April 2022

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Easter & Passover Events��

April Events��

The Girl Scouts Gateway Council is introducing a program for girls entering kindergarten. Learn more about the Daisy Launch on