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

Girl Scout’s Daisy Launch

As 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

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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