Jax4Kids December 2018 by Jax4Kids

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Page 2 • Jax4Kids.com • NOVEMBER 2018

Contents

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Dear Readers,

LIVING WELL

e hope you enjoyed our 30 Days of Thanks giveaways. During the month of November, we gave away 60 prizes including a trip to the Gaylord Palms Resort in Orlando and a family ski vacation to Cataloochee Ski Area in Maggie Valley, North Carolina. If you were not one of the lucky winners, take heart – we’re not finished gifting you, our valued readers and visitors to Jax4Kids.com and our social media sites. Log on to Jax4Kids.com between December 1 – 12 for details on how to win a family ski vacation to Cataloochee Ski Area. We are also giving you the chance to take your family to see an advance screening of the new movie SPIDER-MAN Into the Spider-Verse on December 8th. The movie opens in theaters nationwide on December 14th. To find out how you can see it before it opens in theaters and maybe a little movie swag to go with it, log on to Jax4Kids.com before December 5th. Drawing will be held Thursday morning, December 6th. There’s more! We’ll celebrate the 12 Days of Christmas from December 13 through December 24 with 12 more days of giveaways. If we’re not already Friends on Facebook, find us, follow us and get ready to enter to win! One of our favorite events of the holiday season graces our cover this month. It’s WinterFEST at Adventure Landing. We have been a proud sponsor of this wonderful family holiday entertainment opportunity since WinterFEST first started in 2011. The tradition contines. We hope you enjoy all that WinterFEST has to offer including Ice Skating, S’more Roasting, a 130-foot long ice slide, photos with Santa, and more. If you have a child celebrating a birthday at this time of year, they also offer WinterFEST birthday parties. Turn to page16 for a Free Ice Skate Rental coupon or $20 off a birthday party at WinterFEST. You’ll find more Holiday Events on pages 12, 13 and 14 and online at Jax4Kids.com.

December 2018 Community Profile: Foster Florida - JAX ��4 Mom’s Night Out Events ��4 Check Out A Family-Friendly Cruise ��5

EATING WELL Simplest Nutrition Hints and Tips ��6 Rice Pudding Recipe ��6 Things To Do: Eating Well ��6

HEALTH & SAFETY I was moved to tears when I read Jennifer Melville’s Community Profile about Foster FloridaJAX. Grab a box of tissues and turn to page 4. On the other end of the spectrum, I was laughing out loud reading Sarene Bordages’ tales of her Labrador Retreiver, Oliver. Turn to page 29 for a laugh today. For a yummy recipe to make with your kids this holiday season, turn to page 6. It has been a joy to put each issue of this newspaper together for you this year. We wish you a happy holiday season that leaves you with memories to treasure for a lifetime. Until next year, Alison Peters-Carlson Editor

Follow us... Alison Peters-Carlson Editor....................................... editor@jax4kids.com Linda Bigbee Graphic Designer......................................linda@jax4kids.com Tim Chavez Graphic Designer........................................... tim@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 2018. 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.

The American Academy Of Pediatrics On Spanking Children: Don't Do It, Ever ��7 What Causes Car Sickness in Children and How Can I Prevent It? ��8 Things To Do: Health & Safety ��8

INFANT & TODDLER Signs Your Child is Hungry or Full ��9 Things to Do: Infant & Toddler ��9 Keep Your Baby Safe, Healthy and on Developmental Schedule ��11 Wordless Books Develop Skills ��11

SPECIAL NEEDS Toys for Children with Special Needs ��12 Things To Do: Special Needs ��12

HOLIDAYS Holiday Events ��13-15 Deck The Chairs �� 16 Multicultural Holiday Celebrations Abound �� 17 Holiday Postal Advice and Deadlines �� 18 Donate or Recycle? �� 18 Tracking Santa On That Special Night �� 19 Holiday Books �� 19 Holiday Winter Camps �� 20

EDUCATION Reading, Writing Opportunities Plentiful During Holidays �� 21 Ruth Bader Ginsburg �� 21 Absenteeism Facts Shared �� 21 Duval County Schools’ Teacher of the Year Semifinalists Named �� 22 Choice Expo: January 12, 2019 �� 23 DCPS Parent & Employee Computer Buyback Program �� 24 Let Your Voice Be Heard. Take the Survey �� 25 St. John’s County School News �� 26 Clay County School News �� 27

TEENS A Good Pillow May Be The Solution ��28 Things To Do: Teens ��28

PETS

Oliver Was A Crafty Thief �� 29 Things To Do: Pets �� 29

THINGS TO DO

December Events ��30

NOVEMBER

2018 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 3

LIVING WELL

Community Profile: Foster Florida- Jax

oster Florida- Jax offers support and services to area foster families, providing them with a much-needed sense of community and combating burnout.

“Foster Florida-Jax is a community and an advocate to come alongside foster families,” Josh says, “Whoever needs us, we’re here. We want foster families to feel like they have a tribe.” Bringing awareness about foster families and About three years ago, South Mandarin resident their needs and positively impacting the lives of Sarah Rogers was scrolling through her Facebook Jacksonville’s foster children is their mission. newsfeed when a photo caught her eye. “Who are Foster Florida-Jax currently serves about 100 these kids?” she asked herself, “They’d belong in families in Duval, Nassau, Clay, and St. Johns our family. God knew I needed something visually Counties in four ways: supplies, meals, prayer, impactful that would strike me and say, ‘Wake up. and childcare. This is what’s going on.’ It took another year after that to really dive into what foster care was here Not everyone can foster, but everyone can help. in Jacksonville: what the need was, what the Donate gently used kids clothes, toys, or stats are, and can families like us who have furniture. Provide meals. Pray. Advocate. Business young children and who are still growing their can offer services at a discounted rate to foster families biologically foster and what does that families. Diapers and meals are the most look like?” pressing needs currently. Foster families are able to reach out with specific requests as well. “The turning point was when I saw the kids and Current foster families seeking connection or NE my heart broke,” says her husband, Josh Rogers, Floridians interested in helping are encouraged to “Little kids. Toddlers that were just like my kids. reach out through the Foster Florida- Jax That’s when it really made me open my eyes. Facebook Page. These kids don’t have a choice. Here we are choosing not to take them in. There’s always Partnering with One More Child, Foster Floridagoing to be those inconveniences and uncertain- Jax offers Foster Care Q/A classes at area ties of life, but we have the opportunity to love churches to increase awareness and educate and be a family for these kids.” people about how to get involved. Family Support Services (FSS) is another good resource. As of The Rogers family dove in headfirst, became May 2018, there were 10,720 children in licensed certified, and over the last few years they’ve foster care placements in the state of Florida. cared for 6 foster children. The need for foster homes locally is staggering. “If just one family from each church in NE Florida One of the biggest challenges along the way was got licensed as a foster family, that would fill the the isolation. “There’s not much support for foster need,” Josh says, “Just one family from each families, because legally we’re just the home, the church. My dream is that any time a kid needs a bed the child stays in,” Sarah says, “If you look at safe, warm bed, there is one.” all the spokes of the wheel, we’re the most emotionally invested. When you don’t have “These are our Jacksonville neighbors,” Josh community support and advocacy for foster says, “This is a direct way to support our local families, that’s why there’s so much turnover and community. We’re pouring into these kids and its burnout.” changing their lives.” Foster Florida-Jax looks forward to building more awareness locally in A Gainesville-based nonprofit organization called 2019, supporting even more foster families, and Foster Florida caught their attention. The nonprofit developing their four tiers of support. Foster provided foster families with support and supplies families thrive when the community surrounds as well as a sense of community and connection them and offers assistance. with other foster families. This is exactly what Jacksonville was missing. Foster Florida- Jax was For more information, check out: formed in August 2018. Sarah and Josh are chap- https://www.facebook.com/fosterfloridajax/ j ter advocates. Jennifer Melville

“For me, every hour is grace. And I feel gratitude in my heart each time I can meet someone and look at his or her smile.” – Elie Wiesel, Nobel Prize Laureate, and Holocaust survivor Page 4 • Jax4Kids.com • NOVEMBER 2018

Autobahn Ladies Night Out • Fridays, December 7, 14, 21, 28, 6pm to 11pm Autobahn Indoor Speedway hosts Ladies Night Out, every Friday after 6pm. Ladies will save $10 off Race Packages or $5 off a Single Race Fridays 6pm to close.. Not valid on holidays. Autobahn Indoor Speedway / 904-674-8551 / 6601 Executive Park Ct N, Jacksonville, FL 32216 / www.autobahnspeed.com Children’s Home Society Shopping Night December 6, 6pm to 9pm Moms, sip champagne and shop with Swoozie's on Thursday, December 6th from 6pm to 9pm in support of The Children's Home Society. Enjoy 15% off your purchases that evening and Swoozie's will be donating 15% of all sales back to CHS. This is a great event for a mom's night out. Swoozie's Jacksonville / 904-778-5308 / 4866 Big Island Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.marketsattowncenter.com Ladies Night Out at Doing Dishes Pottery Studio • December 7, 6pm to 9pm Ladies Night is a fun night to paint what you want/how you want and socialize with your friends. Ladies Night is for adults 18 and up. Just make a reservation, pay the $8 non-refundable deposit and bring your own beverage. Snacks and prizes will be provided. This month's Ladies Night Out theme is Wacky Tacky Christmas Party.

Doing Dishes / www.doingdishes.com San Jose Location / 904-730-3729 / 5619 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville FL 32207 Saint Johns Location / 904-824-7774 / 2220 CR-210 W Suite 309, Saint Johns, FL 32259 Women's Self Defense Impact Class December 12, 7:30pm to 9:30pm This 2-hour course was designed to impact the way you react to an attacker. During the first part of this course, participants will cover crimes against women and strategies to reduce your risks. During the second half, you will get you on your feet and change the way you think of dealing with an attacker via fundamental defensive tactics and techniques that every woman deserves to know. Cost is $55 per student. The Women's Defense Company / 904655-7772 / 13241 Bartram Park Boulevard, Unit 405, Jacksonville, FL 32258 / womensdefensecompany.com Painting With a Twist Ladies Night December 13, 7pm to 9pm Painting With a Twist hosts a Ladies Night event. The theme is Feeling Sassy, and the 16x20 canvas can be customized. Cost is $35/seat. Painting With a Twist, San Marco / 904-3998399 / 1525 San Marco Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www.paintingwithatwist.com

JOIN STAR an d th ou san ds o f ki ds who get a kickout of saving! The ©

It’s Fun. It’s Free. And It’s Just For Kids.

Hey kids, I’m Star. My friends and I are called The Sandtastics, and we hope you’ll join all the other kids who are already doing a sandtastic job of saving in The VyStar Kids Club. You’ll see that your dollars add up quickly. So you can save for a new video game, a cool outfit, college, or new sports equipment! Kids age 12 and under get all this stuff when they join:

MOMs and dads, stop by a branch AND sign your kids up today! *Important Note: Kids Club is open to children age 12 and under. To open an account, you will need a child’s birth certificate or certified copy AND social security card or state identification card.

We never forget that it’s your money.

904-777-6000 • 1-800-445-6289 OPEN YOUR KIDS CLUB ACCOUNT TODAY!

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1/19/18 10:12 AM

LIVING WELL

Check Out A Family-Friendly Cruise

e all remember our family vacations growing up. Those long car rides in the Ford station wagon to Disney, Epcot, Seaworld or Wally World! Fortunately, families have even more options to share those rare, precious moments with their kids or grandkids. As a local travel agent and travel blogger, the number one question I’m asked is what cruise line is the most family-friendly. That’s a hard question to answer because each family is different and depending on the age range of the kids and grandkids, each cruise line is unique.

or adults allowed inside. The club is designed to be a great gathering place for teens, but also a spot for planned activities like sports (basketball, volleyball, ping pong, miniature golf) or fun theme parties.

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

NORWEGIAN One of Norwegian Cruise Line’s ships - The Norwegian Getaway - combines innovative amenities and activities including a sports complex with a rope course, where kids and adults can walk the plank and get a birds eye view of the sea, an Aqua Park, rock climbing, miniature golf, basketball court, and more. Stroll The Waterfront is an industry-first open-air promenade. They have kids activities for all ages and special camps for different age groups.

Art classes are available to children ages 3 and up, and will meet once a week. 7 year curriculum. Tuition is $89/month.

CARNIVAL It’s great that we have a Carnival cruise line ship home-ported right here in Jacksonville! The Carnival Elation can hold up to 2594 passengers.

There are more than 28 dining options, Norwegian has open seating for their dining. This means they don't assign you to a specific table and restaurant but if you want to eat at a specific time and place, you should make a reservation There are different programs for kids: Carnival's before you board. Specialty dining is an extra Camp Carnival youth programs are geared to 3 charge but worth the money. Do book in advance age groups from 2 to 11. These are: Toddlers as specialty dining reservations book up well in (ages 2-5) —Splash pool, fund family games, late advance of the cruise departure. night munchies, cartoon time, little tykes toys, learn your colors, can you count, sponge painting, Other cruise lines like Royal Caribbean and MSC indoor beach parties, mousercize, pizza pig out, cruises also offer great kids programs, however, drawing contests, sing-alongs, bingo, face Holland America Line primarily caters to an older painting, arts and crafts, cookie decorating. demographic. Juniors (ages 6-8)—Talent show, face painting, cartoon time, indoor fair, sea animals, mouserHere are my top tips when sailing with kids: cize, Disney trivia, ice cream sundaes, cookie decorating, button making, puppet show, beach Lay down the ground rules before you sail. Let party, outdoor fun and games. Intermediate (ages them know that the cell phones will stay in the 9-11)—T-shirt painting, photography, jewelry safe in the stateroom. The last thing you want is a making, board games, dance class, video high cell phone bill when you return back home. tournament, ping pong, talent show, volleyball, show time, scavenger hunts, meet the entertain- Let you kids know that they can have fun during ers backstage, breakfast fun the day, but that you expect them to be at dinner every night. Family dinner time has become a In addition to the Camp Carnival programs, thing of the past, but on cruises you can have Carnival has a youth program called Circle C for some great family time around the dinner table. ages 12 to 14 and a teens program called Club O2 for ages 15 to 17. Both these groups have Tell your kids to wash their hands frequently. The their own dedicated spaces on each Carnival dreaded norovirus seems to pop up when people ship. don’t wash their hands. Circle C—Youth ages 12 to 14 will enjoy their dedicated lounges on Carnival Cruise Line ships. The Circle C lounges feature a dance floor with high-tech sound and lighting system, along with 42-inch plasma-screen TV for displaying movies. The youth have access to gaming pods with video games and consoles and additional plasmascreens positioned throughout the room for video gaming. Club O2—Older teens ages 15 to 17 also have their own dedicated space, with no younger kids

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

Baymeadows 8411 Baymeadows Way, Suite 2 Jacksonville, FL 32256 Orange Park 1406 Kingsley Ave. Orange Park, FL 32073 Beaches 880 US Highway A1A North, Suite 6 Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082

r Registe Now!

Remind your kids to be respectful to other cruisers and ship’s crew. Many times you will find kids running down those long halls are cutting in front of people at the Lido buffet. Parents should never take a vacation from being a parent on a cruise vacation! j Scott Lara has been a travel agent and cruise blogger in Jacksonville for the past 15 years. You can find him online at TheCruiseGenius.com. His email is slara1961@gmail.com. NOVEMBER

2018 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 5

EATING WELL

Simplest Nutrition Hints and Tips

nother year has come and gone, and we hope it has been a healthy and happy year for your family. Strive to make every day a healthy one for you and your children. I have put together what I consider as a mom the simplest nutrition advice for parents in accordance with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

aren’t regular or when meals are missed, children tend to snack more heavily to make up the missing calories, then are less hungry at mealtime. • Help your child to listen to their satiety cues. Eat until satisfied and not stuffed. Don’t make your child “clean their plate”, instead, help them take smaller portions that they can manage. Arrange Your Kids Snacks • Empower your kids: Involve them in the Children are growing – constantly! They are meal-making process. Let them pick one always in search for food. Their stomachs are meal a week that they prefer and help them smaller than ours, so they tend to fill up quicker make it healthy. For example, if they love and need re-filling more often. If you want to pasta, choose a whole grain pasta, chop up encourage your kids to eat healthier snacks, here veggies in the sauce and choose lean ground are some tips. beef or turkey for the meat. Make home-made • Keep fresh fruit on the counter where kids can garlic bread using olive oil instead of buying see it. the pre-packaged kind. Or encourage them to • Wash and cut up vegetables ahead of time so make a salad on the side for extra veggies they’re ready to eat and store in see- through and fiber. containers or plastic baggies so kids can see • Encourage your kids to try new foods! what’s inside. Keep their favorite dressing • Eat as a family at least once a day – it doesn’t handy for dipping (I like the ones make with have to be dinner. Try to gather everyone to yogurt!). the breakfast table before school, or maybe • Put nutrient-dense foods (low-fat string Saturday lunch is your best bet. Try designatcheese, Greek yogurt, hummus, hard-boiled ing a “family dinner night” when you think eggs, almonds or dried fruit for example) everyone will be out of sports practice or where they can be seen and easily reached. home from work. Studies show that eating as • Keep the empty-calorie snacks such as chips, a family can help prevent pediatric obesity sodas, fruit gummies, toaster pastries and and can foster communication with your cookies in cabinets or on higher shelves children. where they will be less convenient to reach, • Physical activity – we all need to move for or better yet, don’t buy them at all and you good health. The key is to exercise as a family. will be less tempted too! They provide sugar, Go for a bike ride, play tennis, walk the family salt and fat and very little to no protein or dog, swim, or shoot hoops. Children need at vitamins. least 60 minutes of physical activity a day. And it keeps mom and dad in shape, too! Healthy Eating for Growing Up Whatever small diet and exercise changes you Depending on the age, many children know the make, you are heading in the right direction to healthy eating basics. Most children also building a healthier family! j understand they must exercise to stay healthy. Parental food and lifestyle choices influence how Aurea Thompson MSH, RDN, CSP, LDN a child will set up their food decisions and Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Nutrition behaviors later in life. Wolfson Children’s Hospital • Keep regular meal schedules: when meals

Things to Do Eating Well

Vegetarian Ways: Winter Edition December 11, 3pm to 5pm Join library staff for a free vegetarian cooking class where you will learn to create some easy, light, and tasty bites. These delicious fondue treats are inspired by the love of dipping veggies. Samples provided. Please call the library at 904-827-6900 to register. Free. St. Johns County Public Library - Southeast Branch / 904-827-6900 / 6670 US 1 South, St. Augustine, FL 32086 / www.sjcpls.org Baking History Series December 12, 4pm to 5:30pm This class is one in a series that honors 100 years since the end of World War. Classes are for ages 8 and up. Durbin Crossing residents, call for information

about a discount for residents. Payment is on the day of the event. This month’s class is Tough Cookies - Biscotti & Suffragettes. Cost is $22 per student; $40 for a team of two family members; $55 for three family members; $70 for a family of four. Durbin Crossing / 904-923-8274 / 145 South Durbin Parkway, Saint Johns, FL 32259 / bakinghistory.org Publix Aprons Cooking School: Cookies with a Twist • December 24, 4pm This class will teach you some new and interesting cookie recipes that your friends and family will be sure to love. The menu will include Frosted MaltChocolate Cookies; Pistachio Thumbprint Cookies; Ginger and Maple Macadamia Nut Cookies; Turtle Cookie Cups with Salted Caramel; and Vanilla-Walnut Crescents. This hands-on class is perfect for a mom's night out. Cost is $50 per seat. Publix Aprons Cooking School / 904-262-4187 / 10500 San Jose Blvd Ste 36, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www.publix.com

Page 6 • Jax4Kids.com • NOVEMBER 2018

FRESH. HEALTHY. LOCAL.

School meals at NO CHARGE Did you know that ALL Duval County Public Schools offer students free breakfast and 127 schools offer students lunch at no charge as part of the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) program? NO FORMS OR APPLICATION REQUIRED. To see if your student’s school offers lunch at no charge, visit the food service page at duvalschools.org School Meals Feature:

! ing m - Fresh, seasonal fruit offered daily Hir .co s w b o - Over 60% locally sourced produce N gjo inin d l Chef inspired, dietitian approved menus a Duv This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

/ChartwellsK12Duval

@ChartwellsDuval

ChartwellsK12Duval

“Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.” – William Arthur Ward

Kid-Friendly Recipe: Rice Pudding Delicious, creamy rice pudding is a no-fail easy one pot recipe with minimal ingredients and only 3 steps. Gather the kids in the kitchen over the holidays to make this old fashioned rice pudding right at home with this recipe. Ingredients • 6 cups milk (choose 1% low-fat, skim, or use milk alternative such as soy, almond) • 1 cup medium grain rice (do not use long or short-grain) • 1/4 cup white granulated sugar • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract • 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional) • 1/2 cup fat-free condensed milk • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional) Directions Combine the milk, rice, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla and raisins (or dried cranberries) in a

large saucepan. Bring to a boil over mediumhigh heat, mixing occasionally. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally while scraping the base and sides of the pan with a wooden spoon, until thick and creamy (about 15-20 minutes). Once rice is soft and cooked through, mix in the condensed milk and butter. Add 1/4 cup extra milk ONLY if needed to achieve your desired consistency. Pour the rice among serving bowls; sprinkle with extra ground cinnamon (or cinnamon sugar). Serve immediately. Enjoy! Sponsored by

HEALTH & SAFETY

The American Academy Of Pediatrics On Spanking Children:

Don't Do It, Ever. T

wenty years after urging caution among parents who choose to discipline their children with spankings, the American Academy of Pediatrics has updated its stance. Now, its overwhelming consensus for parents: Do not do it.

In a new policy statement issued in November, the group warns that "Aversive disciplinary strategies, including all forms of corporal punishment and yelling at or shaming children, are minimally effective in the short-term and not effective in the long-term. With new evidence, researchers link corporal punishment to an increased risk of negative behavioral, cognitive, psychosocial, and emotional outcomes for children." The advisory for parents and adults "to avoid physical punishment and verbal abuse of children" comes at a time when support of such discipline is on the decline. As the AAP detailed in its policy statement: An analysis of a 2016 national survey conducted by yougov.com revealed that respondents with young children in the home, regardless of race and ethnicity, did not support corporal punishment, "suggesting the possibility that a generational shift in social norms [about corporal punishment] may be taking place."

development.

"We know that the brain does not grow and develop as well once there has been physical punishment to the point where it can cause learning problems, problems with vocabulary and memory, as well as aggressive behavior," Shu said. Verbal reprimands were found by the AAP to be detrimental to a child's health as well. "Anything that's verbally abusive in addition to being physically abusive can change the brain architecture," Shu said. "Basically, these are adverse childhood events that can cause toxic stress that can lead to health problems as well as emotional problems as a child reaches the preteen and teen years." A less harmful way to discipline children effectively would be to reward good behavior and stay consistent with expectations, Shu said. "Some children might respond to timeouts, a minute per year of age for ages 2 to 5 basically," Shu said. "So sometimes having that timeout to take a break and regroup can help them calm down and then see why that behavior was not good."

Though physical discipline has been part of American culture for generations, Shu said the Despite these shifting attitudes, several states continue to have laws that explicitly allow schools research is clear — it is time for change. to perform corporal punishment, as NPR reported just last year. "I think it's great that so many parents did get spanked growing up and turned out what seems to be OK, but knowing what we do now, we really "But the majority of states do not, and I would need to avoid physical punishment because we hope that we would continue to shift in the know that can be harmful," Shu said. direction of encouraging nonphysical punishment," said Dr. Jennifer Shu, pediatrician and And what does Shu think about the argument that author of Baby and Child Health: The Essential Guide from Birth to 11 Years, in an interview with people who received spankings as kids turned out fine? She compares it to growing up at a time NPR's Lulu Garcia-Navarro. when car seats weren't required for young children. j Shu presented the AAP's findings alongside Dr. Robert Sege, an author of the updated policy Effective Discipline to Raise Healthy Children. She npr.org said the evidence shows that spankings do more harm than good when it comes to a child's

“Gratitude is the healthiest of all human emotions. The more you express gratitude for what you have, the more likely you will have even more to express gratitude for.”

– Zig Zigler NOVEMBER

2018 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 7

HEALTH & SAFETY

What Causes Car Sickness in Children and How Can I Prevent It? C ar sickness is a type of motion sickness. Motion sickness occurs when the brain receives conflicting information from the inner ears, eyes, and nerves in the joints and muscles.

Imagine a young child sitting low in the back seat of a car without being able to see out the window — or an older child reading a book in the car. The child's inner ear will sense motion, but his or her eyes and body won't. The result might be an upset stomach, cold sweat, fatigue, loss of appetite or vomiting. It's not clear why car sickness affects some children more than others. While the problem doesn't seem to affect most infants and toddlers, children ages 2 to 12 are particularly susceptible. To prevent car sickness in children, you might try the following strategies: • Reduce sensory input. Encourage your child to look at things outside the car rather than focusing on books, games or movies. If your child naps, traveling during nap time might help. • Carefully plan pre-trip meals. Don't give your child spicy or greasy foods or a large meal immediately before or during car travel. If your travel time will be short, skip food entirely. If the trip will be long or your child needs to eat, give him or her a small, bland snack — such as dry crackers and a small drink — before it's time to go. • Try ginger candies. Hard ginger candy reportedly provides some relief from nausea associated with motion sickness, although research has not demonstrated a clear benefit.

• Provide air ventilation. Adequate air ventilation might help prevent car sickness. Try to keep the air clear of any strong odors, too.

• Offer distractions. If your child is prone to car sickness, try distracting him or her during car trips by talking, listening to music or singing songs. • Use medication. If you're planning a long car trip, ask your child's doctor about an over-the-counter medication to prevent car sickness. Dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) is approved for kids 2 and older. The antihistamine diphenhydramine (Benadryl), approved for kids 6 and older, may also prevent symptoms. Both medications work best if taken about an hour before traveling. Read the product label carefully to determine the correct dose and be prepared for possible side effects, such as drowsiness. Nondrowsy antihistamines don't appear to be effective at treating motion sickness. If your child starts to develop car sickness, stop the car as soon as possible and let your child get out and walk around — or have your child lie on his or her back for a few minutes with closed eyes. Placing a cool cloth on your child's forehead also might help. If these tips don't help or if your child's car sickness makes travel difficult, talk to your child's doctor about other options. j mayoclinic.org

Introducing new location in Ponte Vedra Located in the Sawgrass Village Shopping Center 340 Front Street Ste 770

(904) 473-0600 Or you can visit our Baymeadows location at 8355 Bayberry Road

Doctors That Care

Cool Office Environments

Page 8 • Jax4Kids.com • NOVEMBER 2018

(904) 733-7254

Things to Do Health & Safety

Light Up the House 5K & Family Day December 1, 8am Athletes of all levels are invited to run, walk or stroll their way through Ronald McDonald House of Jacksonville’s Light Up The House 5K. Join other run enthusiasts on the 5K race course that snakes its way through historic San Marco and along the beautiful St. John’s River. Race participants should register in advance to take advantage of a reduced registration fee. Race participants are also encouraged to form a team and create their own fundraising page to raise additional funds for the mission of Ronald McDonald House of Jacksonville. For every $5 raised among individuals and teams, Ronald McDonald House will add a holiday light to the outside of the House until it’s completely lit. The Family Day festival is a family-friendly event that is free for both children and adults and will feature special guest appearances from story book characters, games, arts & crafts, face painting, balloon art and more. Ronald McDonald House / 904-807-4663 / 824 Children's Way, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / rmhcjacksonville.org Reindeer Run December 2, 7am The 5k and and kids runs will run through the north part of Main Beach neighborhoods, where you will be welcomed by cheering neighbors and Christmas carolers throughout the route! The 5k and and kids runs will run through the north part

of Main Beach neighborhoods, where you will be welcomed by cheering neighbors and Christmas carolers throughout the route! There will be a Kids Zone with plenty to do and bounce houses and a special appearance by Santa! The 1 mile kids run starts at 10am. The ½ mile kids run starts at 10:15am and the 100 yard dash at 10:30am. Register online at www.active.com Amelia Island Runners / ameliarunners@gmail. com / Main Beach Park, Amelia Island, FL / www. ameliarunners.com Healthy Minds, Healthy Kids December 6, 5:30pm to 7pm This course will discuss mental health awareness and provide parents with information on how to access and understand the importance of school and community-based resources to serve the whole child. 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. Abess Park Elementary School / 904-390-2960 / 12731 Abess Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225 / dcps. duvalschools.org Beginning Yoga For Kids December 12, 4pm to 5pm Learn how to stretch, breathe, relax, and have fun in this yoga program for kids and teens. No experience is necessary, and come dressed to move. Free. Jacksonville Public Library Brentwood Branch / 904-630-0924 / 3725 Pearl Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206 / jpl.coj.net

Visit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list of Health Events.

INFANT & TODDLER

Signs Your Child is Hungry or Full E ven before your child can talk, he or she will show signs of hunger or fullness by using sounds and movements. Crying is often a late sign of hunger. Look for other signs of hunger listed below so you can put your child to the breast or bottle while he or she is still calm. As your child gets older, he or she will develop new signs for hunger and fullness. Understanding your child’s signs is important to help you know when and how often to feed your child. Below are some examples of signs your child may show for hunger and fullness when he or she is a newborn to 6 months old and signs your child may start to show between 6 to 24 months old: Birth to 6 Months Old Your child may be hungry if he or she: • Puts hands to mouth. • Turns head towards mom’s breast or bottle. • Puckers, smacks, or licks lips. • Has clenched hands

Things to Do Infant & Toddler

Free Sing & Play Discovery Day Class December 1, 10am to 11am Each child, with their parents, will experience singing, creative movement, simple instruments, finger plays and more with the help of a rich collection of traditional songs and rhymes. The program is for children ages 18 months to four-years old. Free, but please register online so they know how many to expect. Classes held at 10am - For ages 18 months - 3 years and 11am - For ages 3 - 5 years. Hendricks Avenue Baptist Church - Room E14 / 904-353-1636 / 4001 Hendricks Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www.jaxchildrenschorus.org Help me Grow, Play, and Learn for Babies & Toddlers • December 4, 11, 18 10:15am - Help me Grow, Play, and Learn for Babies 11am - Help me Grow, Play, and Learn for Toddlers There are two classes, one for babies and one for toddlers. The baby program begins as a lap-sit storytime for children from birth to walking and their caregiver. This storytime will include rhymes, songs, fingerplays, and books to promote language development and positive interactions between parent and child. The storytime then transitions to a sensory experience for babies, toddlers, and their caregivers to promote sensory and social play.

Your child may be full if he or she: • Closes mouth. • Turns head away from mom’s breast or bottle. • Relaxes hands.

To learn more about how to tell if your baby is hungry or full, watch “Is Your Baby Hungry or Full? Responsive Feeding Explained” video on YouTube from the American Academy of Pediatrics. 6 to 24 Months Old

Your child may be full if he or she: • Pushes food away. • Closes his or her mouth when food is offered. • Turns his or her head away from food. • Uses hand motions or sounds for food to let you know he or she is full. Let your child decide how much he or she wants. Your child does not need to finish a bottle or all of the food in the jar or on the plate. Food is not a good reward or punishment.

Talk to your child’s doctor or nurse if you are Your child may be hungry if he or she: concerned about how much or how little he or • Reaches for or points to food. she is eating. j • Opens his or her mouth when offered a cdc.org spoon or food. • Gets excited when he or she sees food. • Uses hand motions or sounds for food to let you know he or she is still hungry.

The toddler program starts with a sensory play experience for babies and toddlers and transitions to a storytime for children who are walking to 36 months and their caregiver. This storytime will include sensory and social play experiences, stories, fingerplays, nursery rhymes, and music to promote vocabulary building and comprehension. Jacksonville Public Library - South Mandarin Branch / 904-288-6385 / 12125 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / jpl.coj.net Storytime at Nocatee December 11, 11am to 12noon During the closure at the Ponte Vedra Beach Branch Library, children are invited for storytime at Nocatee. Join bookmobile staff for storytime in the Nocatee Room of Crosswater Hall, next to Splash Park. Free. Crosswater Hall / 904-827-6950 / 245 Nocatee Center Way, Ponte Vedra, FL 32081 / www. sjcpls.org Little Learners at MOSH December 12, 9:30am to 11:30am Bring your little ones to MOSH on the second Wednesday of every month for exclusive programming designed for learning and development and watch them grow. These programs encompass various learning styles and activities for preschool aged children that help to enhance their skills and dexterity. All activities are designed to encourage caregivers to engage their little ones in conversations and to work with them through each station. Please note that Little Learners encourages

child/caregiver interaction and requires one registered adult per two children. Due to the popularity of these events, we highly recommend you register in advance to guarantee your place. Once online availability is gone, no further tickets will be sold at the door. (Caregivers must register themselves and their children for each month’s program). Admission is $6/person for ages 3 and up. This month’s theme will be Playful Penguins of the World. Museum of Science and History / 904-3966674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org Art For Tots at the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens December 13 and 15, 9:30am to 10:30am The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens hosts Art For Tots. This class is for children 24-36 months and an accompanying adult. The program is designed to help develop a child’s sensory and motor skills through art, movement, music, and storytelling and takes place in the galleries, garden, and studios. Entry is through Art Connections. Class size is limited. For further information, please email education@cummermuseum.org or call 904355-0630. Cost is $10 per pair. Registration is required. The class is offered on two days/ month. The theme is How Can We Get There?. Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens / 904-355-0630 / 829 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www. cummermuseum.org

Visit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list Infant & Toddler Events. NOVEMBER

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Page 10 • Jax4Kids.com • NOVEMBER 2018

INFANT & TODDLER

Keep Your Baby Safe, Healthy and on Developmental Schedule

kills such as taking a first step, smiling for the first time, and waving “bye-bye” are called developmental milestones. Developmental milestones are things most children can do by a certain age. Children reach milestones in how they play, learn, speak, behave, and move (like crawling, walking, or jumping).

• Do not shake your baby—ever! Babies have very weak neck muscles that are not yet able to support their heads. • Make sure you always put your baby to sleep on her back to prevent sudden infant death syndrome. • Protect your baby and family from secondhand smoke. Do not allow anyone to smoke in your home. • Place your baby in a rear-facing car seat in the back seat while he is riding in a car. • Prevent your baby from choking by cutting her food into small bites. Also, don’t let her play with small toys and other things that might be easy for her to swallow. • Don’t allow your baby to play with anything that might cover her face. • Vaccines (shots) are important to protect your child’s health and safety. Because children can get serious diseases, it is important that your child get the right shots at the right time.

In the first year, babies learn to focus their vision, reach out, explore, and learn about the things that are around them. Cognitive, or brain development means the learning process of memory, language, thinking, and reasoning. Learning language is more than making sounds (“babble”), or saying “ma-ma” and “da-da”. Listening, understanding, and knowing the names of people and things are all a part of language development. During this stage, babies also are developing bonds of love and trust with their parents and others as part of social and emotional development. The way parents cuddle, hold, and play with their baby will set the basis for how they will interact with them and others. Breast milk meets all your baby’s needs for about the first 6 months of life. Between 6 and 12 Following are some things you, as a parent, can months of age, your baby will learn about new do to help your baby during this time: tastes and textures with healthy solid food, but • Talk to your baby. She will find your voice breast milk should still be an important source of calming. nutrition. • Answer when your baby makes sounds by repeating the sounds and adding words. This Feed your baby slowly and patiently, encourage will help him learn to use language. your baby to try new tastes but without force, and • Read to your baby. This will help her develop watch closely to see if he’s still hungry. and understand language and sounds. • Sing to your baby and play music. This will Breastfeeding is the natural way to feed your help your baby develop a love for music and baby, but it can be challenging. If you need help, will help his brain development. you can call the National Breastfeeding Helpline • Praise your baby and give her lots of loving at 800-994-9662 or get help on-line at womenattention. shealth.gov. • Spend time cuddling and holding your baby. This will help him feel cared for and secure. Keep your baby active. She might not be able to • Play with your baby when she’s alert and run and play like the “big kids” just yet, but relaxed. Watch your baby closely for signs of there’s lots she can do to keep her little arms and being tired or fussy so that she can take a legs moving throughout the day. Getting down on break from playing. the floor to move helps your baby become strong, • Distract your baby with toys and move him to learn, and explore. safe areas when he starts moving and touching things that he shouldn’t touch. Try not to keep your baby in swings, strollers, bouncer seats, and exercise saucers for too long. When a baby becomes part of your family, it is Limit screen time to a minimum. For children time to make sure that your home is a safe place. younger than 2 years of age, the American Look around your home for things that could be Academy of Pediatrics recommends that it’s best dangerous to your baby. As a parent, it is your job if babies do not watch any screen media. j to ensure that you create a safe home for your baby. Here are a few tips to keep your baby safe: cdc.org

“Feeling gratitude isn't something born in us - it's something we are taught and in turn, we teach our children.” – Joyce Brothers

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

Wordless Books Develop Skills

nyone who's "read" a picture book can tell you that you don't need words to tell a story. Prereading toddlers and preschoolers can follow a story told in pictures, a parent or child can narrate the action, and the cozy, empowering experience can help kids develop positive associations with books. And even though kids aren't reading words, it turns out that wordless books can develop important skills: • Literacy. Toddlers and preschoolers can learn how a book works: front to back, left to right, top to bottom. They practice listening, comprehension, and interpreting visual images. Following a story helps kids understand the structure of storytelling: cause and effect, conflict and resolution, character development, and a narrative arc with a beginning, middle, and end. • Vocabulary and verbal skills. By reading a wordless book with an adult or a more knowledgeable peer, kids can learn to identify objects, people, places, animals, and actions and narrate a story based on visual cues. • Confidence. A toddler or preschooler is proud to have finished a favorite book and to have understood the whole story from start to finish without adult help. • A love of books and art. Wordless books can be enjoyed by readers of all ages and can

develop a taste for reading for pleasure and delight in illustration. • Easy access. Books without text are great for kids who speak different languages, are learning English, or have developmental or learning difficulties that make reading words challenging. And wordless books are growing in popularity and garnering kudos. They have also won the prestigious Caldecott Medal – the top U.S. literary award for illustrated books. Including: “A Ball for Daisy,” age 3+. The tale of a cute little dog who loves, then loses a favorite ball and is restored by getting a new one. “The Lion & the Mouse,” age 3+. A beautifully illustrated version of Aesop's fable about a lion who shows mercy to a mouse, who in turn frees the lion from a poacher's net; wordless except for animal sounds. Kids still need exposure to print, especially kids who may not have a lot of books at home. And how many literacy skills a child gains may depend on how involved the adult reader is in pointing out and reinforcing elements and vocabulary in the story. j commonsense.org

NOVEMBER

2018 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 11

SPECIAL NEEDS

Toys for Children with Special Needs Monkey Noodles Fidget and sensory toys are great for all children, but especially those with ADD/ADHD, OCD, autism, or high anxiety levels. These toys help promote a sense of calm, reduce stress / anxiety and can increase focus / attention. Suitable for ages 3+. (BPA/Phthalate/Latex-Free). $9.49 on Amazon and eligible for Prime.

Tangle Therapy Relax DNA Therapy Relaxes the mind and calms during an anxiety attack. For ages 5 – 50. $8.99 on Amazon with Free Shipping.

Playfoam Quility Therapy Swing No-stick Best suited for children with Playfoam is SPD, Autism, and Asperger. non-toxic and never dries out. Kids can squish Has a calming effect, increases and shape and re-use over and over again. focus, strengthens muscles, Manufacturer recommended for ages 3 – 8. increases balance and $8.98 on Amazon and eligible for Prime. coordination, beneficial for spatial awareness, exposes child to many different sensory inputs and activities, and enables child to be exposed to the kinds of input necessary to train the vestibular system. Recommended for ages 3+. Available in multiple colors. For up to 165 pounds. $68.40 on Amazon and eligible for Prime. Kids Water Beads Sensory Toys Calming for a child who is autistic, special needs or has a sensory processing disorder. $7.95 on Amazon and eligible for Prime. All ages. Buckle Toy Busy Board Kids will learn to snap, zip, tie shoe laces and buckle. 11” x 8”. Assists toddlers and those with special needs to develop fine motor and cognitive skills, hand-eye coordination and problem solving. $19.99 on Amazon and eligible for Prime. Kid O Moluk Bilibo Recommended for children with Autism and developmentally challenged children that need sensory breaks. Great for rocking, spinning and sitting. Comes in choice of 10 colors. Ages 2+ $29.99 and eligible for Amazon Prime.

ADD/ADHD without MEDICATIONS

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

Other benefits include: • Overcoming academic difficulties • Progress is maintained once program is completed • Better social skills • Improvement of the emotional climate at home

Things to Do Special Needs Events

Sensory Sensitive Sundays December 2 Two area Chuck E. Cheese's locations offer Sensory Sensitive Sundays. On the first Sunday of every month, these locations will open two hours early, specifically for children with autism and other special needs. There will be reduced lighting and noise, food and games offered, and trained and caring staff. Chuck E. Cheese / www.chuckecheese.com / 6065 Youngerman Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32244 / 10320 Shops Lane 32258, Jacksonville, FL 32258 Caring Santa at the Avenues Mall December 2, 8am to 11am Caring Santa provides a sensory-friendly environment for families of children with special needs, to safely experience the time-honored tradition and magic of Santa. The Avenues will host this special event prior to mall opening. Guests can register in advance online. Avenues Mall / 904-363-3054 / 10300 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / www.simon.com Make Money Work: Financial Literacy Workshops • December 4, 5:30pm to 6:30pm Make Money Work is a series of financial literacy workshops for students ages 15-20 who want to learn about money management and how to develop a healthy banking relationship. The Make Money Work program is designed for students who want to learn about the value of money, developing a healthy banking relationship, wise borrowing and spending, and protecting oneself from identity theft and fraud. There are a limited number of spots available. These workshops are open to students with various disabilities, as well as existing CARD constituents. Free, but please register so they know how many to expect. This month’s focus is Ways to Earn Money – Financial literacy workshop for students ages 15-20 who want to learn about money management and ways they can earn money. UF Developmental Pediatric Center / 6271 St. Augustine Rd., Suite 1, Jacksonville, FL 32217 / www.eventbrite.com Special Needs Gaming Party at Microsoft December 8, 9am to 10am The Microsoft Store hosts a Gaming Party for kids with special needs. XBox One consoles will be set up in the theater space for gaming. While the children are gaming, the parents have a breakout session on internet safety and parental controls. Register online in advance. This event

is open to families with children with special needs and their siblings. 40 spots are available on a first come first serve basis. Microsoft Store / 4791 River City Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.eventbrite.com Painting Outside the Lines December 12-13, 9am and December 19-20, 4pm UF Health Developmental Pediatric Center hosts a holiday themed Painting Outside the Lines class. This class is for children of all skill levels, between the ages of 6 and 10. Kids will create a masterpiece, while working on their social skills in a small setting. $40/child. UF Health Developmental Pediatric Center / 904633-0762 / 6271 St. Augustine Road Suite 1, Jacksonville, FL 32217 / www.eventbrite.com Girls’ Circle Support Group December 18, 5:30pm to 6:30pm Girls Circle is a support group and informational session, facilitated by Anne Wilson and Audrey Bringman, designed to engage young girls ages 14-19 with Autism Spectrum Disorders. The sessions will include discussions of topics such as personal grooming and hygiene, self-esteem, healthy friendships, social media safety, nutritious eating, and more. This group will be a forum to learn valuable independent living skills and to enhance social skills. They will also invite guests from partner agencies to offer advice, training, model good practices, and provide helpful tips. Girls must be active CARD Constituents. A minimum of 3 girls will be required to hold each session. Parents will be notified on the Friday before the group is scheduled if there are not enough constituents registered. If parents are not going to remain in the wait area, please leave a good contact number with the front office and please return promptly at 5:15pm to pick up your child. UF Jacksonville Center for Autism and Related Disabilities / 6271 Saint Augustine Road, Suite 1, Jacksonville, FL 32217 / www.eventbrite.com CARD Parent Craft Group December 20, 5pm to 6:30pm Families are invited for two new parent support group options hosted by the UF-Jax CARD and geared to meet the needs voiced by many in the area. The Parent Craft Group is an activity-based craft group for parents, led by CARD clinicians. Contact Chelsea.Pierce@jax.ufl.edu for more information regarding this group. Center for Autism & Related Disabilities / 904633-0760 / 6271 Saint Augustine Rd, Ste 1, Jacksonville, FL 32217 / www.hscj.ufl.edu

Visit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list of Special Needs events.

BIOFEEDBACK ASSOCIATES

“When it comes to life, the critical thing is whether you take things for granted or take them with gratitude.”

www.biofeedbackassociates.com

– Gilbert K. Chesterton

Page 12 • Jax4Kids.com • NOVEMBER 2018

904.646.0054 Most Insurances Accepted

HOLIDAYS - EVENTS Photos With Santa - Avenues Mall Thru December 24 Come see Santa and have your picture taken with him, through December 24. Santa is located in Center Court on the Lower Level. Time slots can be reserved online. Avenues Mall / 904-363-3054 / 10300 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / www.simon.com

The Jacksonville Children's Chorus (JCC) is proud to present its annual downtown holiday celebration by illuminating the outside of its downtown office, located at 225 East Duval Street, with festive lights synchronized to recorded songs of the season performed by JCC. Holiday, Christmas and Hanukkah songs will be broadcast on 94.5 FM radio for onlookers to enjoy. Jacksonville Children's Chorus / 904-3531636 / 225 East Duval Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxchildrenschorus.org

purchase on-site. Jekyll Island Skating Village / 364 Riverview Drive, Jekyll Island, GA 31527 / www.jekyllisland.com

Adventure Landing WinterFEST Thru January 7 Families are invited for the annual WinterFEST celebration hosted by Adventure Landing, Photos With Santa at the Orange Park Mall featuring a spectacular outdoor ice skating rink Thru December 24 and ice slide. Shipwreck Island Water Park and Santa will be at the Orange Park Mall, in front wave pool will be transformed into a cozy Alpine of JC Penney. Santa will be at the mall through Polar Express 3D in IMAX experience complete with ice skating, Blizzard December 24th. You can skip the lines to see Thru December 31 Bluff Village, Crystal Creek Lodge, Mistletoe Santa with a Santa FastPass. Pre-purchase your This holiday-themed film is based on the classic Marketplace, Santa's Workshop, s'more roasting, picture package online and head to the FastPass Caldecott medal-winning children's book, and will ornament decoration, sugar cookie decorating, line. FastPass available through December 21. be shown for a limited time. General admission and more. Ice Skating Admission is $10, and Ice Orange Park Mall / 904-269-9413 / 1910 Wells is $10 and Movie Club Members admission is $5. Skate Rental is $3. All other activities require Rd, Orange Park, FL 32073 / IMAX Theater at World Golf Hall of Fame / 904tickets, which can be purchased for 1 Activity orangeparkmall.com 940-4133 / 1 World Golf Place, St. Augustine, FL Ticket: $1.75; 3 Activity Tickets: $5; 10 Activity 32092 / www.worldgolfimax.com Tickets: $15; and 20 Activity Tickets: $25. Photos With Santa at St. Johns Town Center Group rates, family packages, and fun passes Thru December 24 Jacksonville Beach Deck the Chairs are also available. WinterFEST is open on select Come see Santa and have your picture taken with Thru January 1 days during select times, so be sure to check the him. He will be located between Tory Burch and Deck The Chairs (DTC) is an annual lighted calendar for more details. Also, certain activities Lush Fresh Handmade Cosmetics, across from sculptural exhibit using the iconic red chairs of and attractions, including visits with Santa, are Nordstrom. Through December 24. Time slots can The American Red Cross Life Saving Corps. Free only available on a select basis and are subject to be reserved online in advance with a FastPass. and open to the public. The lights will be on every change. St. Johns Town Center / 904-998-7156 / 4663 night. All net proceeds from DTC will benefit WinterFEST at Adventure Landing, Beaches / River City Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / the Volunteer Life Saving Corps of Jacksonville 904-246-4386 / 1944 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville www.simon.com Beach to help supplement funding provided Beach, FL 32250 / www.jaxwinterfest.com by the American Red Cross and the City of Annual Gingerbread House Extravaganza Jacksonville Beach. Funds are needed for training St. Augustine Nights of Lights Thru December 28 and outreach programs, and maintenance of its Thru February 3 The Jacksonville Historical Society presents this oceanfront facility. The Annual Nights of Lights lights up St. beloved holiday tradition each December. Visitors Seawalk Pavilion / 904-716-3853 / 11 1st Street Augustine with over three million lights. Nights enjoy gigantic, creative gingerbread houses built North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / of Lights is the winter holiday celebration in by chefs, bakers, architects, engineers, culinary www.deckthechairs.org St. Augustine where each historic downtown school students, families, young people and other business and many residents participate by individuals. The creations are placed on display at Christmas at Gaylord Palms lighting up their buildings. Nights of Lights holds the Jacksonville Historical Society headquarters, Thru January 6 the distinct honor as one of the 10 Best Holiday historic Old St. Andrews, immediately across the During Christmas at Gaylord Palms, families can Displays in The World by National Geographic. The street from the Veteran’s Memorial Arena. This enjoy holiday displays that include more than main plaza, called the Plaza de la Constitución, is an important fundraiser for the Jacksonville 2 million twinkling Christmas lights and acres features lights draped around every tree. There's Historical Society. Admission is $10 for adults and of larger-than-life decorations. Enjoy visits with also a Christmas tree in the center where photos $3 for kids 3 and up. Santa, Cirque Dreams UnWrapped Live Stage can be taken. The view of the Bayfront from the Jacksonville Historical Society / 317 A. Philip Show, ICE! featuring A Christmas Story, Alpine Bridge of Lions during Nights of Lights is also a Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / Rush Snow Tubing, Elf on a Shelf character favorite photo opportunity. There are many tours www.jaxhistory.org breakfast, gingerbread decorating, and more. and special events happening during Nights of Runs November 16 thru January 6. Tickets for Lights. Continues through February 3. Jax Illumination's 6th Annual Drive Thru ICE! start at $14.99 for children and $28.99 Downtown St. Augustine / 904-829-1711 / 1 Holiday Light Show for adults when purchased online in advance. Cathedral Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www. Thru December 30 Season passes, Florida resident discounts, and floridashistoriccoast.com Jax Illuminations features over a mile of combo tickets are available. Christmas lights, perfectly synchronized to Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center / Publix Aprons Gingerbread Houses holiday music. The one mile drive thru features 407-586-4423 / 6000 West Osceola Parkway, December 1, 8, 15 & 22 - 10am two mega trees, a 300 ft tunnel of lights, custom Kissimmee, FL 34736 / www.marriott.com December 2, 9 & 16 - 10am, 2pm, 6pm Christmas scenes and much more. Cost is $20 This class allows you and your children (up to per car (up to 7 people) Sunday - Thursday, $25 Jekyll Island Skating Village three kids) to decorate your own gingerbread Friday & Saturday $35 for passenger vans. Free Thru January 6 house. One adult is required for each family hot chocolate and candy canes included. Oceanfront “ice” skating is back for the 2018-19 group; children should be at least 4 years old. Morocco Shrine Center / 904-316-5673 / 3800 season. Located on Beachview Dr., just south of Registrations are made on first-come, first-served Saint Johns Bluff Rd S, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / the Holiday Inn Resort, the Jekyll Island Skating basis. Cost is $60; Price is for family up to 4 jaxilluminations.com Village offers on-site skate rentals, concessions, participants, add one seat per family to the cart. and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Publix Apron's Cooking School / 904-262-4187 / Downtown Dazzle cost is $5 per person, and includes skate rental & 10500 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / Thru December 31 30-minute session. Concessions are available for www.publix.com

Family Registration (20.00 value) No cash value • Offer expires 1/1/19

Come for a tour! In Jacksonville For Ages 2 - 12 Tinseltown 9726 Touchton Rd. #111 (904) 683-4554 License # C04DU0978

Theatre Jacksonville’s Theatre for Kids helps build important life skills, self esteem, and confidence.

SPRING SESSION BEGINS

JANUARY 29, 2019

(904) 396-4425 www.theatrejax.com

NOVEMBER

2018 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 13

HOLIDAYS St. Marys Railroad Santa Express December 1, 8, 15, 10am to 4pm The magic of Christmas comes alive at Santa Land where Jolly Old St. Nick himself boards the train for the return ride with gifts for all the good little boys and girls. There will be entertainment all along the way. Tickets are Adults $17, Children (3-12) $11, and Children 2 and under free. Processing fee of $3 each will be added to ticket price. There is also an At the Throttle Experience available for $150. Must be 16 years or older. Rides depart at 10am, 12noon, 2pm, and 4pm. St. Marys Railroad / 912-200-5235 / 1000 Osborne Street, St. Marys, GA 31558 / www.stmarysrailroad.com

Front Porch Christmas December 5, 5pm to 9pm Families are invited for a Front Porch Christmas, featuring giant games, food trucks, local artisans, pictures with Santa for $5, cookie decorating, ornament making, re-purposed art and more. There will also be two music stages including a Front Porch Jam Session and live entertainment on the Sleiman Riverfront Stage. This event is free to attend. Jacksonville Landing / 904-353-1188 / 2 W Independent Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jacksonvillelanding.com

Elf the Musical at the Alhambra: School Matinees • December 6 and 13, 11:30am The Alhambra presents a musical adaptation of Elf. This special school time matinee has been adjusted in length to accommodate a shorter time. Price is $29/person and includes plated lunch of baked barbecue chicken, macaroni and cheese, and green beans. Alhambra Theatre & Dining / 904-641-1212 / 12000 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.alhambrajax.com

Community Nutcracker • December 7, 8pm and December 8, 1pm and 7:30pm The Community Nutcracker returns to the Florida Theatre. More than 200 children from St. Marys Christmas in the Park Northeast Florida audition for and perform in December 1, 12noon to 7:30pm the production. Additionally, The Community Christmas in the Park is an annual one day event Nutcracker issues 2,000 free tickets to various at St. Marys Waterfront Park. There will be Jacksonville agencies and organizations to free cookies and hot chocolate, free games and attend a Community Service Night performance. activities, photo opps, and a free visit with Santa Residents and clients from area nursing homes and Mrs. Claus. All the festivities begin 12oon and nonprofit agencies are also able to attend with the arrival of Santa and his entourage and Community Nutcracker: School Time the ballet. Tickets start at $30. "Cupcakes ends with a movie in the park in the evening. Performances • December 6-7, 10:30am With Clara" -- Enhance the magical experience Movie start time is 6pm. Free and open to the The Community Nutcracker returns to the Florida of dance for your entire family through the community. St. Marys Waterfront Park / 912Theatre. More than 200 children from Northeast Cupcakes with Clara and Friends upgrade. 882-4000 / 100 W Saint Marys Street, St. Marys, Florida audition for and perform in the production. Tickets for the Cupcakes With Clara are an GA 31558 / visitstmarys.com In addition to the regular performances, there additional $20, and can be purchased here. This are also two school performances: December special pre-show event will be held on December Children’s Christmas Musical: Joy Story 6 at 10:30am and December 7 at 10:30am. 8 at 11:30am. December 2, 5pm to 6:30pm The school performances are open to public, Florida Theatre / 904-355-2787 / 128 East Kick off the season with the Kingdom Kidz Choir private and homeschool students. Prices for Forsyth Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / as they present The Joy Story: A Christmas public/private school students: Student tickets jaxnutcracker.org Tapestry. Stay after the program for a Christmas are $5 each. Adult chaperone tickets (not Fellowship featuring hay rides, a Live Nativity, including teachers) are $10 each. One (1) adult San Pablo Elementary Holiday Fair cookie decorating, hot beverages and more. chaperone ticket at $10 is permitted for every December 7, 5pm to 8pm First Baptist Church Jacksonville / 904-356-6077 ten (10) students with paid tickets. One teacher San Pablo Elementary hosts a holiday fair / 119 West Beaver Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 accompanying a group of up to 25 students with with seasonal crafts and activities, musical / www.fbcjax.com paid tickets may attend for free. If additional adult performances, food and unique and affordable chaperones wish to attend the same performance Holiday gift opportunities. The event will also Live Nativity on Laura Street over and above the number of chaperones feature Captain Character and his puppet show. December 2, 6pm to 8:30pm permitted, the ticket price shall be $25 per San Pablo Elementary School / 917-573-1886 / First Baptist Church of Jacksonville invites person. Prices for Homeschool students is $5 801 18th Ave N, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / families downtown to witness the marvel of that each for students, one (1) adult chaperone (which dcps.duvalschools.org/sanpablo first Silent Night with a live Nativity on Laura includes a home school teacher/instructor) ticket Street. You’ll experience the miracle of Christ’s at $10 is permitted for every three (3) home Beaches North Pole Express • December 7, birth complete with live animals and actors. school students with paid tickets. 2pm to 6pm; December 8, 9am to 4pm First Baptist Church / 904-356-6077 / 520 North Florida Theatre / 904-355-5661 / 128 East The Beaches Museum and History Park hosts a Laura Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / Forsyth Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / Beaches North Pole Express event. Visitors are www.fbcjax.com jaxnutcracker.org invited to write a letter to Santa, enjoy cocoa and cookies, watch the movie "The Polar Express" Chanukah Helicopter Gelt Drop & Light Show Jacksonville Symphony: Holiday Pops in the Dickinson Gallery, make crafts, and enjoy December 4, 6pm to 10pm December 6, 7:30pm; December 7, 8pm; other festivities in the History Park. In the Upper The Chanukah Helicopter Gelt Drop & Light Show December 8, 3pm and 8pm; December 9, 3pm Depot visitors will find the Beaches Museum’s over the Nocatee Splash Water park will take and 7pm very own operating Beaches North Pole Express place on the 3rd night of Chanukah. The event Jacksonville’s favorite holiday tradition is back which will temporarily replace the Florida East features a Menorah Lighting Ceremony, a special and better than ever. Get into the holiday spirit Coast Railroad train normally found there. presentation by the GROW Enrichment Program, with the Symphony, a 100-voice Symphony Beaches North Pole Express is free to Museum giant glowing Menorahs, donuts, Dreidals, Latkes, Chorus, guest singers and dancers and an Members with a suggested $5 donation from & more. The Menorah lighting will take place at extravaganza with the area’s only guaranteed non-members. Beaches Museum & History Park 6:20pm. Free and open to all. There will be a indoor snowfall. Tickets start at $19 and are / 904-241-5657 / 381 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Kosher BBQ dinner available for purchase. available online. Times Union Center for the Beach, FL 32250 / www.beachesmuseum.org Nocatee Splash Park / 904-924-6850 / 245 Performing Arts, Jacoby Symphony Hall / 904Nocatee Center Way, Ponte Vedra, FL 32081 / 354-5547 / 300 Water St., Jacksonville, FL 32202 Voctave: An A Cappella Holiday www.JewishSJohnsCounty.com / www.jaxsymphony.org December 7, 8pm Voctave, an 11-member a cappella group from the Central Florida area, will be performing St. Augustine Lighthouse Luminary Night December 5, 6pm to 9pm The Lighthouse grounds will open for a familyfriendly, evening celebration. Holiday music, Santa visit, seasonal treats, and other activities are planned. Admission is free. St.Augustine Lighthouse / 904-829-0745 / 81 Lighthouse Avenue, St. Augustine, FL 32080 / www.staugustinelighthouse.com

Page 14 • Jax4Kids.com • NOVEMBER 2018

holiday songs at the Thrasher-Horne Center. The group, known for their performances of Disney and Broadway hits, will be on stage for one night only. Tickets range from $13 to $63. There is a family 4-Pack available: Buy 3 Get 1 Free. Use code 4Pack at checkout. Thrasher-Horne Center / 904-276-6815 / 283 College Drive, Orange Park, FL 32065 / www.thcenter.org Hometown Holiday December 7-8, 5pm to 9pm The Town of Orange Park and The Historical Society of Orange Park host an old fashioned holiday celebration. The event features tours of the decorated house, classic holiday movies on the outdoor big screen, live musical entertainment, pictures with Santa for a fee, shopping in the Christmas village, food vendors, and a magical lighted trail ride. Clarke House Park / 904-278-3043 / 1039 Kingsley Ave, Orange Park, FL 32073 / www.townoforangepark.com Children’s Christmas Party of Jacksonville December 8, 9am to 12:30pm The Annual Children’s Christmas Party of Jacksonville will take place at the Prime Osborn Convention Center. As many as 6,000 children along with their parents stand in line (first- come, first served) to receive toys and a chance to win a bike. Once the doors open, the line moves quickly as children enter a beautifully decorated Party and are greeted by Santa and Mrs. Claus. Hundreds of volunteers await the opportunity to hand out toys and provide entertainment. Each child chooses several toys among electronics, balls, games, musical instruments, preschool learning toys and infant toys. In addition, they receive novelty toys, books and rulers. Intended for Jacksonville’s children, 12 years of age and younger, who otherwise might not receive toys for Christmas. The event will run until 12:30pm, or earlier if all toys are distributed. Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center / 904-504-3589 / 1000 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.ccpoj.org Toys For Tots at Jacksonville Beach December 8, 9am to 3pm 19th Street Charities hosts a Toys For Tots holiday charitable event at the Seawalk Pavilion on Saturday, December 8, 2018. 19th Street Charities, a non-profit organization made up of local Jacksonville Beach residents and friends, supports the U.S. Marines and their Toys For Tots program. Welcome the U.S. Marines as they arrive at the Seawalk Pavilion escorted by hundreds of local motorcyclists, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, and the City of Jacksonville Beach Police Department. Bring a toy, participate in the assembly line to help load Marine trucks with bicycles and toys, and visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Seawalk Pavilion / 904-247-6100 / 1st Street North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / www.jacksonvillebeach.org

HOLIDAYS Polar Express and Santa December 8, 9am - 1pm Bring your kids for a fun-filled holiday celebration! Enjoy holiday activities and experience the magic of Polar Express 3D with a special appearance from Santa. 8:30am: Check-in begins outside the theater (bring your email confirmation for check-in) 9:00am: Activities begin and Santa arrives 10:30am: Polar Express 3D begins 1:00pm: Santa departs and Activities conclude All activities are included in the ticket cost! Don't forget your camera to get a picture with Santa. The Polar Express and Santa event tickets are $15 for non-members (adults and children) and $10 for Movie Club Members. Price includes movie ticket, visit with Santa and activities. Pre-purchased tickets are required! NO priority seating, refunds or exchanges for this special event. IMAX Theater at World Golf Hall of Fame / 904940-4133 / 1 World Golf Place, St. Augustine, FL 32092 / http://www.worldgolfimax.com Santa Saturday Celebration with First Florida Credit Union • December 8, 1pm to 4pm Families are invited to stop by for lots of free holiday fun for the kids including crafts and games. Santa Claus will make an appearance and Santa's helpers will be available to help the kids learn more about the Sand Dollar Savings Club. Kids can meet Santa from 2pm to 4pm. Be sure to bring a camera to take photos. Light refreshments will be served. First Florida Credit Union CR 210 Branch / 1950 CR 210 W, St. Johns, FL 32259 / firstflorida.org 16th Annual Lighted Boat Parade December 8, 6:30pm Families are invited for the 16th Annual Lighted Boat Parade at Whitey's Fish Camp. There will also be cash prizes, a silent auction, and a raffle. Proceeds benefit Safe Animal Shelter. Whitey's Fish Camp / 904-269-4198 / 2032 County Road 220, Fleming Island, FL 32003 / www.whiteysfishcamp.com 24th Annual Tuba Christmas December 8, 2pm Tuba Christmas is a music concert held in cities worldwide that celebrates those who play, teach, and compose music for instruments in the tuba family. More than 200 tubas come together for the 24th Annual Tuba Christmas at the Jacksonville Landing. Free. Jacksonville Landing / 904-353-1188 / 2 W Independent Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jacksonvillelanding.com A Christmas Symphony December 9, 6pm to 7:30pm The FBC JAX Orchestra returns this year to present A Christmas Symphony. From traditional Christmas music to hymns and instrumental arrangements, it's a celebration for all ages. First Baptist Church Jacksonville / 904-356-6077 / 119 W. Beaver Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.fbcjax.com

Jacksonville Symphony: JSYO Holiday Concert December 10, 7pm The Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestras perform their holiday concert, conducted by Principal JSYO Conductor Deanna Tham. General admission tickets start at $3 for kids and $8 for adults. Times Union Center / 904-354-5547 / 300 Water St., Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www. jaxsymphony.org Phone Calls From Santa • December 11-13 Santa has once again partnered with Parks and Recreation for the annual Phone Calls from Santa program. Parents with children under the age of eight that live in St. Johns County can sign up to have Santa call their child at home this Christmas from 6pm to 7:30pm on Tuesday, December 11th through Thursday, December 13th. Registration is open until 5pm on Friday, December 7th. To register, fill out the Registration form, here for Phone Calls from Santa and return to St. Johns County Parks and Recreation Department or fill out online and hit submit. For more information, contact Ashley Brown at 904-209-0321 or abrown@sjcfl.us. St. Johns County Parks and Recreation / 904-209-0321 / www.sjcfl.us Theatreworks: 'Twas the Night Before Christmas • December 13, 10am and 12noon 'Twas the Night Before Christmas will be performed in two live shows at the Florida Theatre. Admission is $8.50 per person, and the show is best suited for children in grades K-5. School groups, homeschool families, and individuals are welcome to attend. Florida Theatre / 904-353-3500 / 128 East Forsyth Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www. theatreworksjax.com Trans Siberian Orchestra Ghosts of Christmas Eve • December 13, 7:30pm Trans Siberian Orchestra returns to Jacksonville for their 2018 North American tour. There will be one show only. Tickets start at $29 and are available online. Veterans Memorial Arena / 904-630-3900 / 300 A Phillip Randolph Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxarena.com Jacksonville Symphony: First Coast Nutcracker • December 14, 8pm; December 15, 2pm and 8pm; December 16, 2pm The First Coast Nutcracker returns to the Times Union Center. Experience Tchaikovsky’s timeless ballet with Jacksonville’s only full symphony orchestra. Tickets start at $21 and are available online. Times Union Center for the Performing Arts - Moran Theater / 904-354-5547 / 300 Water St., Jacksonville, FL 322202 / www.jaxsymphony.org Cool Side of Yuletide December 15, 2pm and 5pm The Jacksonville Children's Chorus is pleased to present the annual "Cool Side of Yuletide," concert, with show times at 2pm and 5pm. This holiday concert will feature Christmas and Hanukkah favorites. Tickets are available online or by phone in advance. Seating is general

admission. Doors open 30 minutes prior to concert. Hendricks Avenue Baptist Church / 904353-1636 / 4001 Hendricks Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www.jaxchildrenschorus.org See Santa, Watch Home Alone, and Feed Jacksonville • December 15, 2pm First ACT, the nonprofit Florida Theatre’s young professional networking group, presents the film Home Alone, to benefit Feeding Northeast Florida. Admission is free for every adult and child with a gift of canned or nonperishable food. Doors open at 12:30pm. Come early and have your picture taken with Santa, have some milk and cookies, and make an ornament at the crafting area. Elf begins at 2pm. The food collected, will be received by Feeding Northeast Florida, our community’s food bank and a partner of Feeding America. Florida Theatre / 904-355-5661/ 128 East Forsyth Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / floridatheatre.com Jacksonville Symphony: Handel’s Messiah December 15, 8pm and December 16, 3pm The Jacksonville Symphony, guest soloists and more than 100 voices from the Symphony Chorus present music’s most powerful message of faith in the Messiah of the season. Tickets start at $19 and are available online. Times Union Center for the Performing Arts, Jacoby Symphony Hall / 904-354-5547 / 300 Water St., Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxsymphony.org Holiday Trains December 16 - 31 The Toy Train Collectors of Jacksonville are hosting a special motorized holiday train display on the third floor at MOSH. The holiday train display will feature volunteer operators available to engage visitors about trains, engineering and model building. The trains will be rotated throughout the day as they travel through a winter wonderland! Museum of Science and History / 904-396-6674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org Kids Holiday Tea Party & Etiquette Class December 16, 2pm to 4pm Enjoy a memorable holiday experience with "Tea Party Etiquette" hostess, Christina Godwin. Allow your kids to spend the afternoon at the historic Jekyll Island Club Resort sipping on tea and munching on delicious treats, all while learning the ins and outs of proper table etiquette. Santa's special elves will even make an appearance at the tea party with gifts in hand. Parents are required to sit with their child and purchase an adult ticket. Dressed up holiday attire is welcome. Tickets should be bought for both children and adults. In order for your children to participate in this event, you must also purchase a ticket and sit with your child. Tickets are $25. Jekyll Island Club Resort / 877-860-1395 / 371 Riverview Drive, Jekyll Island, GA 31527 / www. eventbrite.com

A Christmas Celebration December 16, 6pm to 7:30pm A Celebration of the sights, sounds, and meaning of Christmas, featuring the student and adult Choirs and Orchestras at First Baptist Church. Jacksonville / 904-356-6077 / 119 W. Beaver Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / fbcjax.com A Christmas With Rockapella December 19, 8pm For their new Christmas show, Acapella superstars Rockapella will perform holiday classics like “Silver Bells,” “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town,” and “White Christmas” with their original holiday hits “The Hope We Hold,” “Christmas Without You,” and more. Ticket prices range from $35 – $45 and are available online. Florida Theatre / 904-355-5661 / 128 East Forsyth Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / floridatheatre.com Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer The Musical December 20, 7pm All of your favorite characters from the original TV special including, Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, the Misfit Toys and Rudolph, come to life in Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer: The Musical. Tickets range from $29.50 – $49.50 and are available online. Florida Theatre / 904-355-5661 / 128 East Forsyth Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / floridatheatre.com A Christmas Carol • December 21, 8pm The FSCJ Artist Series presents an adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. The show features a cast of 23 performers, live musicians, and Broadway-style scenery. Tickets range from $16 to $54. Times Union Moran Theater / 904632-5000 / 300 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.fscjartistseries.org Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker December 22, 3pm Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker will be in Jacksonville for one performance. The show features hand-painted sets, Russian Snow Maidens, nesting dolls, and hand crafted costumes. Tickets range from $31.50 - $178.50. Florida Theatre / 904-355-5661 / 128 East Forsyth Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / floridatheatre.com Saint Augustine Ballet presents The Nutcracker December 22-23, 1:30pm and 7pm Saint Augustine Ballet presents their annual production of the holiday favorite, The Nutcracker. It will be performed at Lewis Auditorium in St. Augustine. The multigenerational cast is comprised of student and professional dancers. Tickets are $25 to $35 and are available here. Babies (two and under) sitting on a parent’s lap are admitted free. Lewis Auditorium / 855-222-2849 / 14 Granada Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.saintaugustineballet.com

NOVEMBER

2018 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 15

HOLIDAYS

Deck The Chairs T o get into the holiday spirit, visit the Deck The Chairs event at Jacksonville Beach this season.

to 1 a.m. and beginning Saturday, Dec. 1, a special 12-minute digital light show choreographed with music takes place on the hour from 7 to 9 p.m. every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

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Also that night is the official tree lighting at Seawalk Pavilion and the Beaches Go Green Jellyfish Park opens for the kids. Latham Plaza is located in the heart of downtown Jacksonville Beach at the corner of First Avenue North and Second Street North. It is the home of 26 of the decorated lifeguard chairs. Inspired by the historic Jacksonville Beach Volunteer Lifeguard chairs and the need for new funds to support the lifeguard effort, Deck The Chairs, was launched in 2013 in Latham Plaza with 18 participating business and non-profit groups joining in as chair decorating sponsors. Since then it has grown to be one of the premier events of the Northeast Florida Christmas season. The chair lights are turned on nightly from 5 p.m.

The Seawalk Pavilion area adjacent to Latham Plaza between First Street North and the beach boasts the 30-ft handcrafted tree, over-sized decorated displays, activities for the kids, as well as many other performances during the month-long celebration. See deckthechairs. org for a complete calendar. To get involved in this festive event whether as a volunteer or a sponsor also see deckthechairs.org

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Page 16 • Jax4Kids.com • NOVEMBER 2018

HOLIDAYS

Multicultural Holiday Celebrations Abound D o your friends of classmates celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or Three Kings Day? Maybe they celebrate St. Lucia Day. Chances are your class includes students who observe more than one of those events. Whether that is the case or not, December offers great opportunities for learning about our multicultural world.

These multicultural events and celebrations are among those that will happen this year: • Saint Nicholas Day (Christian) • Fiesta of Our Lady of Guadalupe (Mexican) • St. Lucia Day (Swedish) • Hanukkah (Jewish) • Christmas Day (Christian) • Three Kings Day/Epiphany (Christian) • Boxing Day (Australian, Canadian, English, Irish) • Kwanzaa (African American) • Omisoka (Japanese) • Yule (Pagan) Saint Nicholas Day Dec. 6th is the feast day of Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of children, St. Nicholas of Myra is a major saint in many European and Eastern countries, and one of the old Christian traditions surrounding his feast day is for kids to leave their shoes out overnight in front of the fireplace, on the windowsill, or outside their bedroom door so that St. Nicholas can fill them with special fruits, candies, and other small gifts and treats.

Christmas A Christian holiday honoring the birth of Jesus Christ, Christmas evolved over two millennia into a worldwide religious and secular celebration, incorporating many pre-Christian, pagan traditions into the festivities along the way. Today, Christmas is celebrated on Dec. 25 as a time for family and friends to get together and exchange gifts. Three Kings Day/Epiphany A Christian feast day that celebrates the revelation of God incarnate as Jesus Christ In Western Christianity, the feast commemorates principally the visit of the Magi to the Christ child, and thus Jesus' physical manifestation to the Gentiles. The traditional date for the feast is Jan. 6. However, since 1970, the celebration is held in some countries on the Sunday after Jan. 1. Boxing Day Boxing Day is a holiday celebrated the day after Christmas Day. It originated in the United Kingdom, and is celebrated in a number of countries that previously formed part of the British Empire. It evolved from a British custom for tradespeople to collect "Christmas boxes" of money or presents on the first weekday after Christmas as thanks for good service throughout the year.

Kwanzaa Kwanzaa, which means "First Fruits," is based on ancient African harvest festivals and celebrates ideals such as family life and unity. During this Fiesta of Our Lady of Guadalupe spiritual holiday, celebrated from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1, December 12th is the feast of Our Lady of millions of African Americans dress in special Guadalupe, patroness of the Americas and unborn children. Our Lady of Guadalupe, also known as the clothes, decorate their homes with fruits and Virgin of Guadalupe, is a Roman Catholic title of the vegetables, and light a candleholder called a kinara. Blessed Virgin Mary associated with a venerated image enshrined within the Minor Basilica of Our Omisoka Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City. The day is Japanese New Year takes place on Dec. 31, the particularly special for Americans of Mexican last day of the year. In preparation for a new year heritage. and a clean slate, people purify their homes and remove last year’s clutter by cleaning from top to St. Lucia Day To honor this third-century saint on Dec. 13, many bottom. Celebrants have a giant feast with friends girls in Sweden dress up as "Lucia brides" in long and family with traditional Japanese foods and at midnight they visit Shinto shrines as the temples white gowns with red sashes, and a wreath of burning candles on their heads. They wake up their ring a large cast iron bell to signify human desires families by singing songs and bringing them coffee that cause suffering. and twisted saffron buns called "Lucia cats." Yule A festival observed by the historical Germanic Hanukkah The eight-day Jewish celebration known as Hanuk- peoples celebrating the winter solstice, an astronomical phenomenon marking the day with kah commemorates the rededication during the the shortest period of daylight and the longest second century B.C. of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, where, according to legend, Jews rose night of the year. It will occur at 10:28 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 21 this year. One of the most up against their Greek-Syrian oppressors in the famous celebrations takes place in the ancient Maccabean Revolt. Hanukkah, which means ruins of Stonehenge, England. Thousands of Druids “dedication” in Hebrew, begins on the 25th of and Pagans gather to chant, dance and sing at Kislev on the Hebrew calendar and usually falls in November or December. Often called the Festival of sunrise. j Lights, the holiday is celebrated with the lighting of the menorah, traditional foods, games and gifts.

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NOVEMBER

2018 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 17

Donate or Recycle?

HOLIDAYS

Holiday Postal Advice and Deadlines U se flat rate envelope or box (they're free) otherwise, you are paying by the weight of your package vs. a flat rate.

and customs forms. store.usps.com/store/ product/shipping-supplies/military-care-kit-P_ MILITARYKIT

Time-Saving Tips Save time and ship from your home or office using Click-N-Ship®. You can log on to the United States Postal Service at uspa.com, create a free USPS account and from there you can order free boxes, print forms and labels, schedule a free package pickup, buy stamps and have seasonal supplies delivered including mailers, boxes, labels, tape, scales and more.

With Informed Delivery, you will receive an email every morning with images of incoming mail and packages. You can also schedule deliveries when you know someone will be home. Sign up for this free service at informeddelivery.com.

If you're going to the Post Office to ship packages, have your mail and packages ready before you arrive at the post office. Go early morning or afternoon to avoid lunch time lines. If you're sending anything abroad have your customs forms ready. Custom forms are available online at usps.com/international/customs-forms.htm Free military care kits are available free of charge and include 2 APO/FPO flat rate boxes, 4 medium flat rate boxes, address labels, Priority Mail tape

Holiday Shipping Deadlines The Postal Service recommends the following mailing and shipping deadlines for expected delivery by Dec. 25 to Air/Army Post Office/Fleet Post Office/Diplomatic Post Office and domestic addresses*: • Dec. 4 – APO/FPO/DPO (ZIP Code 093 only) Priority Mail® and First-Class Mail® • Dec. 11 – APO/FPO/DPO (all other ZIP Codes) Priority Mail and First-Class Mail • Dec. 14 – USPS Retail Ground • Dec. 18 – APO/FPO/DPO (except ZIP Code 093) USPS Priority Mail Express® • Dec. 20 – First-Class Mail (including greeting cards) • Dec. 20 – First-class packages (up to 15.99

Page 18 • Jax4Kids.com • NOVEMBER 2018

ounces) • Dec. 20 – Hawaii to mainland Priority Mail and First-Class Mail • Dec. 20 – Priority Mail • Dec. 20 – Alaska to mainland Priority Mail and First-Class Mail • Dec. 22 – Alaska to mainland Priority Mail Express • Dec. 22 – Hawaii to mainland Priority Mail Express • Dec. 22 – Priority Mail Express

*not a guarantee.

DONATE Each year during the holiday season as new clothing, shoes, toys and bicycles come into the house, older clothing, shoes, toys and bicycles would be greatly valued and appreciated by others. These items can be donated to one of the organizations listed below. Community Hospice Thrift Store 845 Blanding Blvd., Orange Park , FL 32065 11173 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246 Hope’s Closet Thrift Stores Southside Commons, 651 Commerce Center Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32225 14286 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32250 at the corner of San Pablo and Beach The Salvation Army Schedule a pickup online at www.satruck.org or drop off at 10696 Lem Turner Road, Jacksonville, FL, 32218 10940 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL, 32246 2221 County Road 220, Units 101-104, Middleburg, FL, 32068 276 Solana Road., Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082 RECYCLE Only paper, cardboard, metal cans and plastic containers should be placed in your recycle bin. Bubble wrap and flexible packaging from your online purchases and wrapping paper that is shiny, foil or glitter-decorated paper cannot be recycled and should go in the trash can. j

HOLIDAYS

Tracking Santa On That Special Night

n Dec. 24, 1955, a call was made to the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD) Operations Center in Colorado Springs, Colo. However, this call was not from the president or a general. It was from a young child in Colorado Springs who was following the directions in an advertisement printed in the local paper – the youngster wanted to know the whereabouts of Santa Claus.

Every year on Dec. 24, 1500 hundred volunteers staff telephones and computers to answer calls and e-mails from children (and adults) from around the world. Live updates are provided through the NORAD Tracks Santa Web site (in seven languages), over telephone lines, and by e-mail to keep curious children and their families informed about Santa’s whereabouts and if it’s time to get to bed.

The ad said “Hey, Kiddies! Call me direct and be sure and dial the correct number.” However, the number was printed incorrectly in the advertisement and rang into the CONAD operations center. On duty that night was Colonel Harry Shoup, who has come to be known as the “Santa Colonel.” Colonel Shoup received numerous calls that night and rather than hanging up, he had his operators find the location of Santa Claus and reported it to every child who phoned in that night.

Each year, the NORAD Tracks Santa Web Site receives nearly nine million unique visitors from more than 200 countries and territories around the world. Volunteers receive more than 140,000 calls to the NORAD Tracks Santa hotline from children around the globe.

Thus began a tradition carried on by the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) when it was formed in 1958. Today, through satellite systems, high-powered radars and jet fighters, NORAD tracks Santa Claus as he makes his Yuletide journey around the world.

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This year, children and the young-at-heart are able to track Santa through Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. To follow us on any of these Web sites, type in @noradsanta into the search engine and start tracking. NORAD Tracks Santa has become a magical and global phenomenon, delighting generations of families everywhere. j

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‘Tis the season. Whether you celebrate Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Christmas, or something else entirely, this list of Common Sense Media’s favorite children's holiday books will help you make wonderful family memories. Choose from the best of the season and get lost in the imaginative illustrations and unforgettable stories. Happy reading, and happy holidays!

“An Otis Christmas” Tractor brings help to birthing horse in tense holiday tale. By Loren Long. Ages 5 and up.

“The Santa Trap” Greedy boy tries to capture Santa in funny, offbeat tale. By Jonathan Emmett. Ages 6 and up.

“The Biggest Smallest Christmas Present” Teensy girl gets jumbo presents in charming Christmas story. By Harriet Muncaster. Ages 3 and up. “Rory the Dinosaur Needs a Christmas Tree” Dad comes through in sweet Christmas tale. By Liz Climo. Ages 3 and up.

“The Naughty List” Goofy humor, warm heart in wild holiday romp. By Michael Fry, Bradley Jackson. Ages 8 and up

“Christmas in the Barn” Evocative new art enlivens poetic telling of Nativity story. By Margaret Wise Brown. Ages 4 and up.

“Nickel Bay Nick Tween boy must salvage Christmas in fun, moving adventure. By Dean Pitchford. Ages 9 and up.

“Santa, Please Bring Me a Gnome” Girl hopes for tiny live gift in gentle holiday story. By An Swerts. Ages 4 and up. “The 12 Sleighs of Christmas” Elves compete to make Santa new sleigh in imaginative tale. By Sherri Duskey Rinker. Age 5 and up.

“What Light” Charming, sweet holiday romance. By Jay Asher. Ages 12 and up.

commonsensemedia.org

904-372-4653 JaxSurfAndPaddle.com NOVEMBER

2018 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 19

HOLIDAYS - WINTER CAMPS Bravoz Holiday Camps December 24, 26 - 28, 31, 2018 January 4 & 7, 2019 9am - 2pm Extended Care: 2pm - 5:30pm Keep your kids active and healthy over the holiday breaks! Drop them off at Bravoz for a fun-filled, action-packed day camp experience. Children ages 6 to 12. Each day your child will have a fun-filled and action-packed experience. They will receive lunch, snacks, and participate in several different activities. Activities will vary by day, and can include the following: Trampoline Jump Time, Laser Tag, Unreal Bowling, Ninja Warrior Course, Climbing Walls, Laser Maze, Leap of Faith, Arts & Crafts and Games & Team Competitions. Register for a single day or a full week. In order to reserve a spot for your child in the camp, a $50 deposit is required for full week registration, and payment in full is required for single day registrations. The balance on full week camp is due one week prior to the start of camp. Cost: $195/ week. $45/day. $15/day of Extended Care. $15 sibling discount. www.bravoz.com/ 904-300-0070 / 14985 Old St. Augustine Road Jacksonville, FL 32258 Shiva Robotics Winter Camps December 24, 26, 27, 28, 2018 December 31, 2018, January 2, 3, 4, 2019 9am - 3pm Ages 5 - 15. Kids design and build LEGO powered Santa’s Sled, Functional Toy Factory and Remote Controlled Robotic Elves. Santa's Workshop - Dec 24, 26, 27, 28 Robotic Wonderland - December 31, January 2,3,4 Cost: $300 - $450 www.shivarobotics.com / 904-704-7046 / 7044 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, 32216 Creative Minds Academy Winter Break Camps December 26, 27, 28 and January 2, 3, 4, 7 – All days for $175 total Includes Field Trips, Lunch, and Snacks! Chef Prepares all Meals and Snacks Cost: $175 for the entire Winter Break. No Registration Fee. www.creativemindsacademyfl.com Deerwood Park- 10550 Deerwood Park Blvd South, Suite 704, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / 904-379-8126 / License #C04DU0959 Durbin Crossing - 14985 Old St. Augustine Road, Suite 120, Jacksonville, FL 32258 (Philips Highway and Old St. Augustine Road) / 904-880-8588 License #C04DU0960 Engineering For Kids Winter Camp December 27 - 28, 2018 January 2 - 4, 2019 9am - 12pm or 1pm - 4pm Half day camps(3hours), for Junior Engineering and Apprentice Engineering. Morning and afternoon camps available. These camps will not just focus on one type of Engineering, they are going to introduce the children to a different program each day. This Winter Camp will have hands on learning and will focus on Civil Engineering, Aerospace, Marine Engineering, Environmental Engineering, and more. They will also introduce some of their robotics program and programming as well, so each child gets a feel of what they like. Cost: $150/ week + $20 registration fee. www.engineeringforkids.com / 904-494-6499 / 1600 Greenland Road, Suite 304, Jacksonville, 32258 First Coast Center for the Arts January 2 - 4, 2019 • 9am - 3pm Campers pick the theme for the week! Includes art,

theatre, gymnastics, dance, and morning stretches. Cost: $100 - Full days; $70 - Half Days; $30 - Single Days $50 deposit due at time of registration. www.firstcoastcenterforthearts.com / 904-2475151 / 725 Atlantic Blvd. Suite 20, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 Grey Goose Farm Horse Camps December 26 - 28, 2018 January 2 - 4, 2019 9am-9:30am drop off; 2:30-3pm pick up Grey Goose Farm provides young people an opportunity to learn about horses and horsemanship. Their program is designed to benefit the beginner and those who already have some knowledge of horses. Participating in a horse camp is a great way to build a child's self-confidence and help a child develop good decision making skills. Attending horse camp promotes independence while the child learns responsibility and cooperation. Please contact Danielle for registration forms at info. greygoosefarmfl@gmail.com. Cost: 3 day camp $325 and 1 week camp $475. www.greygoosefarmfl.com / 904-701-2912 / 3915 CR 210 West, St. Johns, FL 32259 Jacksonville Zoo Winter Break Camp December 27, 28, and 29, 2018 • 9am - 4pm Extended Care Available: 7:45-8:45 and 4:15-5:15 (additional $10/day) When people think of Florida, they don't usually think of "winter" -- unless they're thinking of a place to escape from the cold! But we can still enjoy our own chillier months with the best of them. Celebrate the Sunshine State's version of the coldest season with 3 days of Zoo Camp fun (including Zoo tours, keeper chats, hands-on activities, and animal encounters for kids in K-5th grades. Daily Rate: Members $40; Non-Members $45. All 3 Days: Members: $105; Non-Members $120. www.jacksonvillezoo.org / 904-757-4463 / 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218 JCA (Jewish Community Alliance) J-cation Days December 26, 27, 28, 31, 2018 January 2, 3, 4, 2019 7:30am - 6pm or 9am - 4pm Grades Kindergarten - 6th. Activities include: swimming (indoor pool), physical sports/activities, cooking, arts and crafts and indoor games. Afternoon snack will be provided. Cost: 7:30am - 6pm $55/day, Valued Member Fee $46/day. 9am - 4pm $45/day, Valued Member Fee $38/day. www.jcajax.org/youth / 904-730-2100 ext. 24 / 8505 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32217 JJVA Winter Break Volleyball Camp WEEK ONE - Wednesday through Friday, December 26 - 28 WEEK TWO - Wednesday through Friday, January 2-4 9am - 1pm For Volleyball enthusiasts, JJVA offers a Volleyball Skills Camp. The world class JJVA coaching staff will focus on fundamental skills through game based drills and daily scrimmages. The Volleyball Skills Camp is open to boys and girls ages 9 – 16. It is designed for the beginner to intermediate player and will incorporate teamwork and sportsmanship. Cost: $129 Non Members or JJVA Member Special Pricing $99. JJVA Winter Break Kids Camp WEEK ONE – Wednesday through Friday December 26 – 28

Page 20 • Jax4Kids.com • NOVEMBER 2018

WEEK TWO – Wednesday through Friday, January 2 - 4 9am - 5pm Kidz Camp is open to boys and girls and caters to children from the ages of 5 to 11 years old. Our Kidz Camp is packed full of fun and games and includes activities like: Dodgeball, Volleyball, Basketball, Kickball and Archery, Nutrition and Fitness Activities, Arts and Crafts, Obstacles, Relay Races, Games and Movies. Cost: $89/week. www.jjva.com / 904-854-2323 / 8457 Western Way, Jacksonville, FL 32256 Karate America Winter Camp Karate America Winter camp offers constructive fun with traditional martial arts benefits. Super fun but also teaches kids powerful life skills like focus, discipline and respect while learning cool martial arts moves. Enroll today at select locations. www.karateamerica.info / 904-724-7544 / Multiple Locations Throughout Jacksonville KidsPark Winter Camp December 17, 2018 - January 7, 2019 KidsPark is happy to offer fun Winter Break Camps just in time for the shopping and party season. Whether you need them for the whole break, a week, a few days or just a few hours, KidsPark is the solution for your holiday childcare needs! KidsPark, known for hourly drop in childcare for children ages 2-12, offers gift making workshops, imaginative play, arts, crafts, music and movement, circle and story time, group games, as well as outdoor play. Camps are charged at their hourly rate. The discounted day rate is available for visits up to 8 hours. A visit once every 12 months keeps registration active. Rates: First Child - $8.50, Second Sibling - $4.00, Each Add’l Sibling - $3.00, Family Registration - $40 www.kidspark.com / 904-683-4554 / 9726 Touchton Rd #111, Jacksonville, FL 32246 Limelight Theater Winter Break Drama Camp December 27, 28, 2018 and January 2, 3, 4, 2018 10am - 3pm Grades K+. Week long campers will present an informal showcase of A HOLIDAY MOOSICAL, a 15 min musical on Jan 4 at 3pm. Cost: $275 limelight-theatre.org/ 904-825-1164 / 11 Old Mission Avenue, St. Augustine, FL 32084 MOCA Winter Art Camp December 27 - 28, 2018 January 2 - 4, 2019 Grades Kindergarten - 5th. MOCA Jacksonville provides half-day and full-day sessions during winter break. Experienced art educators teach a variety of media and skills while providing the contemporary art history context for each project. Cost: 9am - 1pm: $25 each day. 1pm - 5pm: $25 each day. 9am - 5pm: $50 each day. mocajacksonville.unf.edu / 904-366-6911 / 333 North Laura Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 MOSH Winter Discovery Camp December 26 - 28, 2018 - Galactic Encounters Strikes Back! January 2 - 4, 2019 - Super-Hero Science Academy 9am - 3pm Extended Care: Before Care: 7:30 to 9 a.m. After Care: 3 to 5 p.m. Kindergarten – 2nd Grade Camps and 3rd – 5th Grade Camps Cost: $120 for MOSH Members / $150 for NonMembers Cost of Extended Care: Extended Care is included in the price of camp. www.themosh.org / 904-396-6674 x226 / 1025

Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 Proactive Life Skills Winter Bridge Social Skills Camp • January 2 - 7, 2019 • 9am - 3pm Ages 5 - 13. Work on independent and social play. Camp Tuition: $220 Registration Fee: $25 (per family) www.proactivelifeskills.org / 904-491-2111 / 13121 Atlantic Boulevard, Suite 200, Jacksonville, FL 32225 The Cultural Center At Ponte Vedra Beach December 27-28, 2018 & January 2-4, 2019 9am - 2pm Ages 4 - 8. Each day our fabulous and talented instructor will be spending the day teaching children the process of art-making with various art materials. Your children will take home an array of hand-made holiday art that can be used as decorations or gifts. Cost: Members: $45. Non-members: $55 www.ccpvb.org / 904-280-0614 / 50 Executive Way, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 TNT Gymnastics Holiday Camp Dec 21, 26 - 28, and 31, 2018 - Jan 5 and 7, 2019 9am - 3pm Ages 3 - 12. Every child will participate in gymnastics rotations focusing on new skill and position development. They will get to interact on all apparatus in the facility from vault, bars, beam, rings, trampoline, pit, & more! When it's time to slow down and catch a breath, they will have snack, crafts, & lunch each day. Feel free to bring your own lunch or snack for your child. They do have snacks and drinks available for your camper to purchase. Early Drop Off: 8am - 9am ($20) Late Pick Up: 3pm - 6pm ($60) Weekly Rates: $155 1st Child, $139.50 Siblings Day Rates: $50 1st Child, $45.50 Siblings www.tntgymfit.com / 904-998-8681 / 2683 St. Johns Bluff Rd. S, Suite 1, Jacksonville, FL 32246 Tommy Hulihan’s Christmas Sports Camps December 19 - 21, 2018 December 26 - 28, 2018 8am - 3pm Extended Day: 7:30am - 8am and/or 3pm - 6pm Campers will participate in a variety of team sports and age-appropriate activities. Some of these include basketball, soccer, flag football, kickball, tag and more! Every Friday we will have a pizza party and go bowling at Beach Bowl. Campers will receive a t-shirt. Cost: $80 for 3 days. Single Day Rates: $35 for Wed & Thurs and $40 on Friday (Pizza and Bowling) www.tommyhulihanbasketball.com / 904-349-2611 / 212 5th Street N, Jacksonville Beach, 32250 YMCA Winter Break Day Camp Dates and Times Vary by Location Ages 5-12. Activities Include: Arts and Crafts, Field Trips, Team Sports, Games, and Science Experiments. For more information or to register your child, stop by the Welcome Center at your local Y or call 904-265-1775. Pricing is available for the entire week and varies by camp location. Daily rates are also available at some locations. www.firstcoastymca.org

EDUCATION

Reading, Writing Opportunities Plentiful During Holidays

he holidays are here, and they offer opportunities for families to grow closer through reading and writing together. A trip to your local bookstore or library and a little creativity are all you need to make this holiday season memorable. All the books I’ve listed here are available through the Jacksonville Public Library.

Hanukkah Ideas From nightfall on Sunday, Dec. 2, to nightfall on Monday, Dec. 10, people of the Jewish faith will celebrate Hanukkah. Also known as the Festival of Lights, Hanukkah is often celebrated by lighting a menorah, playing dreidel, and eating special foods, among other things.

creatively illustrate Kwanzaa’s seven principles through painting or drawing.

Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Author Anna Membrino has included the 85-year-old in a new children’s board book series “I LOOK UP TO …” The author says it’s never too early to introduce your child to the people you admire. The inspirational series aims to spotlight women making a difference in the world. The second volume features Michelle Obama. Books on tennis star Sarena Williams and Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai, the activist for girls' education are coming out in the Spring. Irish illustrator Fatti Burke is producing the art for the series.

“It’s Kwanzaa Time,” by Linda Goss, offers stories for each of the seven days of Kwanzaa. The book includes offers songs, paintings, craft projects, and recipes. Families who read this book could sing the songs, follow the recipes, or complete the craft projects to celebrate the holiday. Christmas Ideas Christmas is celebrated on Dec. 25 every year to honor the birth of Jesus Christ in a Bethlehem manger. People give gifts, decorate their homes, and honor the concept of peace on Earth during this holiday.

here are a couple of new media additions to Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s pantheon.

There is also a new movie coming out on Dec. 25 that focuses on Ginsburg as a law student at Harvard and an early case that had a role in reversing gender-based discrimination and helped launch Ginsburg’s legacy.

“Little Red Ruthie,” a picture book by Gloria Koster, is a humorous retelling of the Little Red Riding Hood tale with the inclusion of Hanukkah traditions. Families who read this book could compare or contrast it to the traditional Little Red Riding Hood tale. The kids could also pack a basket of goodies for their grandparents and either mail it or deliver it in to them in person.

Many families read the second chapter of the book of Luke in the Bible to commemorate the holiday. After reading this account of Jesus’ birth, families could dramatize the Christmas story using sheets as clothing and a doll as Jesus. Families could also bake a birthday cake for Jesus to help them remember His birthday.

“While the Candles Burn: Eight Stories for Hanukkah,” by Barbara Diamond Golden, may be of interest to older children. With stories taken from Jewish folklore, the Talmud, the Bible, readers will experience the themes of Hanukkah illustrated through eight stories. After reading this book with your children, you might have them write a story on a theme of Hanukkah, such as faith or courage.

“The Christmas Sheep and Other Stories” by Avril Rowlands is a heartwarming book you may want to read to your family this year. It offers four stories told from the perspectives of animals who were at the Nativity. Families who read this book could draw pictures of the animals who tell each story and display them around the house. Your kids could also write their own animal stories and share them with the family.

Absenteeism Facts Shared

Kwanzaa Ideas Kwanzaa, a seven-day harvest festival from Africa, begins on Wednesday, Dec. 26, this year. Kwanzaa is based on seven principles, including unity, purpose, and faith.

For more holiday book ideas, you can search the Jacksonville Public Library’s catalog at jpl.coj. net. You can also visit Barnes & Noble or Books-AMillion online.

As part of National Dropout Prevention month, Dr. Davis who shared some of her favorite lesser-known facts about how absenteeism affects a student's success in school.

“Santa’s Kwanzaa,” a picture book by Garen Eileen Thomas, combines Christmas and Kwanzaa in verse. Once Santa returns to the North Pole after delivering presents, he and his family celebrate Kwanzaa. Families who read this book could

From our family to yours, we wish you a happy holiday season full of the blessings of love, peace, and joy. j

Nancy Lee Bethea

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“On the Basis of Sex” stars Felicity Jones as the trailblazing attorney. j

xecutive Director of Dropout Prevention and Support Services Dr. Pamela M. Davis has a passion for helping at-hope youth and has spent her more than 25-year career helping students defy the odds and graduate.

The amount of school a student misses in the first month of the school year is a good predictor of absenteeism for the rest of the year. Studies done by the Baltimore Education Research Consortium found that students who miss between two and four days of school in the first month are likely to be absent nearly every month thereafter.

percent or more days in the school year, which amounts to two days each month. It may not seem like much, but studies done by Attendance Works show that children who were chronically absent in kindergarten and first grade often had difficulty reading proficiently by the time they were in third grade.

Pamela Davis

Attendance plays a critical role in the transition between grade levels. The University of Chicago found that attendance during the transition between eighth and ninth grade is vital. The more absent a student is, the harder the transition and the more likely the student is to drop out. Chronic absenteeism affects reading proficiency. Chronic absenteeism is defined as missing 10

Students who live in communities with high levels of poverty are four times more likely to be chronically absent than others. Povertystricken households often lack resources that are necessary to get children to school. Whether it’s caused by unreliable transportation or parents feeling too over-worked to get their children ready for school, these students are more likely to miss school and drop out before graduation.

When students improve their attendance rates, they improve their academic prospects. Although this may seem like an obvious statement, remember it only takes two absences every month to make a negative impact on a student’s future. For more information and resources on how to keep students engaged and successful in school, please visit duvalschools.org/page/10606. j

NOVEMBER

2018 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 21

Teacher of the Year Semifinalists Named

Fifteen outstanding public school teachers have been named semifinalists for the 2019 Florida Blue Duval County Teacher of the Year.

they inspire and amaze him each and every day. He believes that building strong relationships is key to student and school success.

Of the 182 teachers nominated by their schools, these 15 stood out among the rest to a selection committee comprised of teachers and representatives from Duval Teachers United, the Duval County Parent-Teacher Association, Duval County Public Schools and the community for their extraordinary dedication to their students and instructional excellence.

Rachel Duff teaches sixth, seventh, and eighth grade Developmental Language and English Language Arts with emergent bilingual students at Alfred I. DuPont Middle School. Previously, she taught abroad in Guyana for three months. She feels that she is the most important advocate for her students.

Congratulations to all of the semifinalists, who will be moving onto the next round of selection in choosing just five finalists to be nominated for 2019 Florida Blue Duval County Teacher of the Year. Michelle Chambers is an Instructional Coach at John E. Ford, which is a PreK – Grade 8 Montessori Magnet School. Ms. Chambers works with teachers and students in all content areas and says that her students inspire her and that she is an educator because of them.

Steven Ingram teaches tenth, eleventh, and twelfth grade Advanced Placement History of Art and Eleventh Grade IB Theory of Knowledge at Stanton College Preparatory School. He believes by focusing upon intellectual curiosity, relevance and collaboration, a teacher and the student can work together to help to create a dynamic classroom.

Algebra 1 and Intensive Math at Raines High School. She believes that the positivity and confidence she pours into her students opens up a world of opportunity they might not otherwise believe is real and communicates to her students that she has high expectations for all of them because she wants the best for them. Sarah Pasion teaches fourth grade math and science at Sadie Tillis Elementary School. Ms. Pasion is a proud educator who aims to make a contribution in shaping the world of tomorrow. She says that her most significant goal is to impact the lives of each and every student that she teaches. Alessandra Ramos teaches first grade at Merrill Road Elementary School. Ms. Ramos starts the day with her students in mind and plans ways to make a difference in each of their lives. She works to include social emotional learning into her curriculum and believes it increases her students’ coping skills in addressing life's challenges.

Patricia Renee Kirkham teaches fourth grade Reading, Writing and Integrated Social Studies at Alimacani Elementary School. She feels that finding one’s purpose for teaching is essential, and says that her purpose is to give generously of Patricia Raymer teaches fifth grade Reading/ Ashlyn Cogswell teaches third grade math and her time and energy to each of her students. Writing/Social Studies at Mamie Agnes Jones science at John Stockton Elementary school. Ms. Elementary School. Ms. Raymer believes that Cogswell works to fulfill her mission by reaching Kimberly Kirton teaches fourth grade Reading teaching holds immense power that should not each student where they are each and every day. and Writing at Kernan Trail Elementary School. Ms. Kirton has spent over 20 years as a classShe believes that fostering a community of trust be taken lightly, and she strives to be the best room teacher. She is motivated by the small steps is vital to her students' success. reading teacher that she can be for her students. children take in the right direction and is inspired Joshua Diaz teaches fifth grade math and by watching children become confident learners. Miranda Romano teaches a sixth grade Gifted science at Hogan-Spring Glen Elementary School. elective and eighth grade History at Mayport Danisha Love teaches ninth and tenth grade He says that his students “refuel” him and that Coastal Science Middle School. Ms. Romano tries

Page 22 • Jax4Kids.com • NOVEMBER 2018

to find something to relate to each of her students with and works to make sure they know she sees them as individuals and provides support any way she can. Rhonda Stampalia teaches a wide variety of ballet classes at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, where she has been teaching ballet for 29 years. Ms. Stampalia’s accomplishments are far and wide, and her students have performed at TEDx Jacksonville and with the Jacksonville Symphony. Nakeisha Tinsley teaches sixth, seventh, and eighth grade Health and Physical Education at Matthew W. Gilbert Middle School. Ms. Tinsley believes in choosing equity over equality with her students and using a variety of instructional practices to address the different learning styles of each and every one of her students. Brittany Turner teaches kindergarten at Lorretto Elementary School. Ms. Turner believes that everyone is capable of learning new things despite any challenges they may face, and that learning doesn't end when the bell rings at the end of the day - it can happen anywhere and at any time.

Find The Best Choice For Your Child

CHOICE EXPO

Saturday, January 12, 2019 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Prime Osborn Convention Center NOVEMBER

2018 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 23

50% OFF FOR PARENTS | 25% OFF FOR FACULTY

DCPS Parent & Employee Computer Buyback Program

DCPS has partnered with Urban Mining to sell our used computers at deeply discounted prices. Buying • The online store offers a variety of payment options! a used computer is now quick, easy, online and ongoing. We have many types of refurbished computers available including Lenovo Laptops and Desktops, IMacs, MacBooks, MacBook Pros, and many • Shipping is available or pick up at Urban Mining’s Retail Store at 2362 Emerson Street. others. Prices range from $50+ with the discount depending on the model. • You will be notified via email when your order is received and when your order is ready for pick up To access the online sale, parents must have a valid Oneview Account associated with a DCPS or shipped. student(s) and verified by the student's school. Create your OneView account by visiting www. duvalschools.org/oneview. If you already have a Oneview account, you can verify if your student is • Sales will be ongoing, as more equipment is made available. Items will be listed on the sale site. associated with your account by logging into Oneview. Parents and staff should check back regularly for newly listed items. • All computers are 50% off for DCPS parents that have a student(s) registered to their Oneview account. • One computer per student registered to your parent account per year. If you have more than one child associated with your Oneview Account, log off after each purchase and log back into to purchase additional computers for your other students. • DCPS employees receive a 25% discount for a one-time purchase every year • Purchases MUST be made ONLINE through your parent or employee Oneview account. Items are not available at the retail store until purchased online.

Page 24 • Jax4Kids.com • NOVEMBER 2018

• Computers have a 90-day warranty. • You can use a computer kiosk at any of our schools to access the site and purchase a computer. • Examples of available computers may include: - MacBook’s – Various Models - MacBook Pro’s - Various Models - IMac’s - 20” - Lenovo T420’s For more information or questions, contact Urban Mining’s Help Desk at 904-452-7210.

Let your voice be heard.

Take our survey about how we communicate with you. This is your chance to let us know how we are doing communicating with you and how we can improve. Are you getting the information you want and need? Your participation is the key to getting useful results. Please take this survey on any device by clicking on the link below. Be a part of Team Duval. Participation takes less than 15 minutes and is completely anonymous. Visit www.duvalschools.org/survey to take the survey.

SAFETY STOP in partnership with the Jacksonville Public Library’s

SANTA STOPS AND PHOTO OPS

DECEMBER 8, 2018 11 AM - 2 PM

FREE FAMILY-FRIENDLY EVENT BICYCLE RODEO HELMET FITTINGS GAMES GIVEAWAYS ARTS & CRAFTS FUN AND MORE!

MAIN LIBRARY, 303 N LAURA ST., 32202

A NTA S H ON

11 : 15 A

PHO TOS W

Does your child or loved one have a bicycle on his or her holiday list? Before you make a purchase, stop by the Jacksonville Public Library and visit the Jax Mayorthon Kids Club Safety Stop station to learn about tools and practices that can keep them safe on the roadways! Mayorthon Kids Club members can show their membership card to receive a special prize.

NOVEMBER

2018 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 25

St. Johns County School District News

National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists BARTRAM TRAIL: Ancelin, Havyn S.; Bedell, Cade R.; Doshi, Karuna T.; Glass, Jake T.; Hanson, ST. AUGUSTINE: Keating, Henry J. Jenny G.; Kataru, Geethika; McCabe, Elizabeth J.; and Stophel, Madeline R. Over 1.6 million juniors in about 22,000 high schools entered the 2019 National Merit CREEKSIDE: Campbell, Shannon A.; Eberhardt, Scholarship Program by taking the 2017 William J. Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®), which served NEASE: Bachmann, Richard W.; Belkin, Elise as an initial screen of program entrants. The M.; Fifield, Zachary E.; Hoang, Timothy; Kamat, nationwide pool of semifinalists represents less Tushaar S.; Lee, Joanne; Menon, Mira G.; than one percent of U.S. high school seniors. Palande, Atharva R.; Sarma, Ajay S; Shah, Kiran N.; Venturi, Alessia J.; Vlasov, Daniel M. To become a finalist, the semifinalist and his or her high school must submit a detailed PONTE VEDRA: Buresh, Willa D.; Dimberg, Riley scholarship application, in which they provide A.; Dowling, Ashton R.; Jaliparty, Amit; Keller, information about the semifinalist’s academic Gabrielle L.; Licata, Chiara M.; Lucchino, Peter D.; record, participation in school and community Nasir, Adam R.; Yant, Nathan W. activities, demonstrated leadership abilities,

Sparking STEM This year’s STEM SPARK was held at St. Augustine High School in October. The event serves to make young women in grades 7 and 8 aware of possible careers in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math.

employment, and honors and awards received. A semifinalist must have an outstanding academic record throughout high school, be endorsed and recommended by a high school official, write an essay, and earn SAT® scores that confirm the student’s earlier performance on the qualifying test.

corporatesponsored Merit Scholarship awards will be provided by approximately 230 corporations and business organizations for finalists who meet their specified criteria, such as children of the grantor’s employees or residents of communities where sponsor plants or offices Finalists are selected from this group and will be are located. In addition, about 180 colleges and notified in February. All National Merit Scholarship universities are expected to finance some 4,000 winners will be selected from this group of college-sponsored Merit Scholarship awards for finalists. finalists who will attend the sponsor institution. National Merit Scholarship winners of 2019 will Three types of National Merit Scholarships will be announced in four nationwide news releases be offered in the spring of 2019. Every Finalist beginning in April and concluding in July. will compete for one of 2,500 National Merit® $2500 Scholarships that will be awarded on Nationalmerit.org a state-representational basis. About 1,000

A Swimming Success

The Creekside High girls team won the Florida 3A State Swimming and Diving Championships for the second year in a row beating Bartram Trail High by four points last month at the Sailfish Splash Waterpark Aquatic Athletics Center in Stuart. The meet began with a tie in the 4×50 medley relay as the Creekside team (Jennifer Bird, Madison Koutavas, Grace Gavin and Emma Chestang) touched the wall in 1:46.03, the same time as the Sunlake High team. The Nease High team was fifth. The Bartram Trail boys team also placed second behind Venice High. The Creekside boys teams came in third.

Hot shot!

Bartram Trail senior Brett Schell came in second in the FHSAA Boys 3A golf championship last month at Mission Inn Resort & Club at Howey-in-the-Hills, near Orlando. He shot an 8 under par 67 and 69 over two rounds, one stroke behind Brett Roberts of Ft. Lauderdale’s St. Thomas Aquinas. Schell also had a hole-in-one. He will play for the University of Mississippi next year. Bartram Trail came in 8th in the team competition with a 629 score.

The American Association of University Women sponsored the event and this is the second year that it was hosted by school district.

Holiday Calendar The American Association of University Women is the nation’s leading voice promoting equity and education for women and girls. Since its founding in 1881, members have continuously led the charge to break through educational and economic barriers so that all women have a fair chance. Learn more at www.aauw.org.

Friday Dec. 21

2nd Quarter/1st Semester Ends

Monday - Friday Dec. 24-Jan. 3

Winter Break

Friday Jan. 4

Teacher Planning-Student Holiday

Monday Jan. 7

Classes Resume/2nd Semester Begins

Monday Jan. 21

Martin Luther King Day Holiday

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

Page 26 • Jax4Kids.com • NOVEMBER 2018

Clay County School News

National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists FLEMING ISLAND: Day, Jasmine M.; Graves, Henry W.; Johnson, Charles E.; Lahey, Shannon. ORANGE PARK: Kempfert, Joshua L. RIDGEVIEW: Bisson, Kyle J. Over 1.6 million juniors in about 22,000 high schools entered the 2019 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2017 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®), which served as an initial screen of program entrants. The nationwide pool of semifinalists represents less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors. To become a finalist, the semifinalist and his or her high school must submit a detailed scholarship application, in which they provide information about the semifinalist’s academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received. A semifinalist must have an outstanding academic record throughout high school, be endorsed and recommended by a high school official, write an essay, and earn SAT® scores that confirm the student’s earlier performance on the qualifying test.

Finalists are selected from this group and will be notified in February. All National Merit Scholarship winners will be selected from this group of finalists. Three types of National Merit Scholarships will be offered in the spring of 2019. Every Finalist will compete for one of 2,500 National Merit® $2500 Scholarships that will be awarded on a state-representational basis. About 1,000 corporate-sponsored Merit Scholarship awards will be provided by approximately 230 corporations and business organizations for finalists who meet their specified criteria, such as children of the grantor’s employees or residents of communities where sponsor plants or offices are located. In addition, about 180 colleges and universities are expected to finance some 4,000 college-sponsored Merit Scholarship awards for finalists who will attend the sponsor institution. National Merit Scholarship winners of 2019 will be announced in four nationwide news releases beginning in Connect with us! April and concluding in July.

Ridgeview Tops Academic Competition

Ridgeview High’s Varsity Academic Team Back row: Trevor Taylor, Lucas Cathey, Alaa Osman, Jasmine Mackey, Hunter Click, Kyle Bisson Front row: Nathan Kauffman, Alijah Chalas, Christian Jalligao, Jayden Fye, Brooke Petrosky Not pictured: Matthew Petty

Athletes of the Month

The academic team from Ridgeview High is the 2018 Clay County Varsity High School champion. Six of the county's high schools competed against each other in a tournament in which players were asked questions from the areas of language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, the fine arts, world languages (French and Spanish), physical education, health, and technology. Each team was composed of four players that could be rotated in between three rounds.

The county athletes of the month for October are golfer Camille Jackson, a sophomore at Keystone Heights High and cross country runner Landon Opp, a junior at Fleming Island High.

Orange Park Junior High is the junior high school champion and the team from Oakleaf High won the junior varsity title.

Nationalmerit.org

Spencer Kirkham – Orange Park football Ethan Schroeder – Oak Leaf swimming

Clay County All-Star Athletes of the Month are exemplary students and athletes who represent their schools and the district in a positive light. Each month, coaches will nominate one male and one female from each school. Out of these nominations, the district will select one male and one female each month. The selections are recognized throughout their schools and the district. These nominations represent the following criteria: • Outstanding athletic accomplishment(s) • Great sportsmanship (during games and practices) • Strong work ethic and leadership • Perform at a high level in the classroom (3.0 GPA or higher)

Camille Jackson

The nominees for October's Athlete of the Month included: Mei Chiang – Fleming Island cross-country Sara Stotler – Clay swimming Bryanna Parrett – Oakleaf volleyball Carson Cain – Ridgeview swimming Emma Brown – Orange Park cross-country Zachary Eubank – Clay swimming Tyler Huff – Ridgeview football Tyler Shaw – Keystone Heights cross-country

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

The next step in the academic team season is an exam for those interested in the all-county team. Six high school students, four players and two alternates, will be selected for the team based on a written exam and their performance during the season. The allcounty team will compete in the 34th Annual Commisioners Academic Challenge, April 11-13 at Walt Disney World. The event is sponsored by the Florida High School Athletics Association.

Teachers of the Year

Argyle Elementary............................Terry Runte Bannerman Learning Center.............Jarutha Scott Charles E. Bennett Elementary..........Nancy Snow Clay High School...............................Joshua Persinger Clay Hill Elementary..........................Meredith Pittman Clay Virtual Academy........................Billie Jean Peeples Coppergate Elementary....................Heather Turner Discovery Oaks Elementary..............Jamie Randall Doctors Inlet Elementary...................Constance Tracey Fleming Island Elementary................Phyllis Hale Fleming Island High School...............Brian Gartner Green Cove Springs Junior High........Chera Bleau Grove Park Elementary.....................Kristin Steinfurth Keystone Heights Elementary............Mindy Wester Keystone Heights Jr/Sr High.............Michelle Wacha Lake Asbury Elementary...................Aundrea Johnson Lake Asbury Junior High School........Evan Gould Lakeside Elementary........................Danielle Knotts Lakeside Junior High School.............Jonathan Jones McRae Elementary............................Sandra Torres Middleburg Elementary.....................Stacey Gay Middleburg High School....................Jill Haun Montclair Elementary........................Lynda Thompson Oakleaf High School..........................Kezia Laberis Oakleaf Junior High School...............Mary Pizzi Oakleaf Village Elementary................Valerie Knight Orange Park Elementary...................Linda Youngblood Orange Park High School..................Joshua Burghart Orange Park Junior High School........Cynthia Leporati Plantation Oaks Elementary..............Matthew Snow R. M. Paterson Elementary................Rene Vann RideOut Elementary..........................Elizabeth Toney Ridgeview Elementary......................Dana Millard Ridgeview High School.....................Jessica Moreland S. Bryan Jennings Elementary..........Karey Adkison Shadowlawn Elementary..................Amanda Bretz Swimming Pen Creek Elementary.....Govinda Poor Thunderbolt Elementary....................Kimberly Reneau Tynes Elementary.............................Eric Wright W. E. Cherry Elementary....................Sara Kinion Wilkinson Elementary.......................Robin, Rae Wilkinson Junior High School............Miranda Knox

Winter Calendar

Friday, Dec. 14.................................................. End Second Grading Period Thursday, Dec. 20 – Friday, Jan. 4.................... Christmas/New Year’s Break Monday, Jan. 7................................................. Planning Day/Student Holiday Tuesday, Jan. 8................................................. Classes Resume Monday, Jan. 21............................................... Martin Luther King Day Holiday NOVEMBER

2018 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 27

TEENS

A Good Pillow May Be The Solution

ealthy sleep leads to healthy brains. Neuroscientists have gotten that message out. But parents, doctors and educators alike have struggled to identify what to do to improve sleep. Some have called for delaying school start times or limiting screen time before bed to achieve academic, health and even economic gains.

Higher sleep quality is defined by fewer awakenings per night. Those are times in the night when sleep rhythms are disrupted and the person is briefly awake or moves into a lighter stage of sleep, whether they’re consciously aware of it or not. In our study, adolescents had an average of five awakenings per night that ranged in duration between less than a minute and over an hour.

Still, recent estimates suggest that roughly half of adolescents in the United States are sleepdeprived. These numbers are alarming because sleep is particularly important during adolescence, a time of significant brain changes that affect learning, self-control and emotional systems. And sleep deficits are even greater in economically disadvantaged youth.

After two weeks, they came into the lab to have their brains scanned. We were interested in measuring the connections among pathways in the brain involved in self-control, emotion and reward processing – the same ones that are important for reducing impulsivity and staying focused in class. Unsurprisingly, adolescents with better sleep quality had better “brain connectivity.” That is, connections among key brain regions were stronger.

Research shows one solution to the sleep deprivation problem that is deceptively simple: provide teens with a good pillow. Because getting comfortable bedding does not involve technology, expensive interventions or lots of time, it may be particularly beneficial for improving sleep among under-resourced adolescents. Consistency over quantity Studies have shown that seemingly small differences in the quality and duration of sleep make a difference in how the brain processes information. Sleep acts like a glue that helps the brain encode recently learned information into long-term knowledge. It also improves focus in school because sleep helps dampen hyperactive behavior, strong emotional reactions and squirminess. My colleagues and I originally hypothesized that the number of hours asleep was most important for healthy brain development over time. But when we tested this idea with a study, the finding surprised us. Instead, adolescents whose sleep is inconsistent across the school week, varying by as much as 2.5 hours from one night to the next, exhibited less development of white matter connections in their brains a year later than those who slept a more consistent number of hours per night. White matter connections help process information efficiently and quickly by connecting different brain regions, similar to how a highway connects two cities. Adolescence is an important time for paving all the brain’s highways, and this research suggests sleep may be vital for this construction. Better sleep comes with better bedding So what are the primary sleep ingredients that contribute to healthy brain development? We equipped 55 14- to 18-year-old high school students across Los Angeles from different socioeconomic backgrounds with actigraphs, wristwatch-like monitors that track sleep quality.

The subjective experience of a comfortable place to sleep was key. But the more important, and surprising, discovery was what we found when we dug deeper: Adolescents who reported greater satisfaction with their bedding and pillows were the ones who had greater sleep quality. So is there a perfect pillow? We found that one size doesn’t fit all. For some people, a flat pancake pillow soothes them into a sound slumber. For others, only a super puffy cloud will do. And although our findings were strongest for pillow comfort, bedding more generally was important, too. In every measurable domain, young people reared in poverty experience poor outcomes. Compared to more affluent peers, they show poorer academic and cognitive performance, psychosocial well-being and physical health. These gaps have been the focus of intense debate and research but they remain wide and persistent. The availability and quality of basic needs, including food, health, parental warmth and shelter, helps explain some of the discrepancies. But researchers have sorely underemphasized sleep – an equally important basic need that may be an untapped solution to the achievement gap. In a time of borderline hysteria over the effects of technology on sleep and brain development, little attention goes to the fundamental elements of good sleep in adolescents. Ensuring they have comfortable bedding may help improve sleep in all adolescents, particularly among poorer families. And it’s a lot easier to convince parents and teens to invest in pillows than to bicker over phone privileges. j The Conversation.com – Adriana Galvan, professor of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles.

Page 28 • Jax4Kids.com • NOVEMBER 2018

Things to Do Teens Events

Tips for High Scores on the SAT/PSAT December 4, 4pm to 5pm Come learn important tips about what you can do to get the highest score possible on the SAT and PSAT. Instructor Brett Hancock has been a teacher for 21 years and an instructor of SATs for 20+ years. For more information, call the library at 827-6940. Free. St. Johns County Public Library - Main Branch / 904-827-6940 / 1960 N. Ponce De Leon Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.sjcpls.org

Jacksonville, FL 32218 / /jpl.coj.net Mid-Term Game Break December 19, 1pm to 2:45pm Teens are invited to come in play games, hangout and relax after their mid-term exams. Free for ages 13-18. Held in Community Room A. Jacksonville Public Library - Regency Square Branch / 904-726-5142 / 9900 Regency Square Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225 / jpl.coj.net

Publix Aprons Teen Camp - Let's Get Cooking December 27-29, 6pm to 8:30pm Teens 13 to 17 are invited to come learn to make some interesting snacks, entrees and desserts with Aprons chefs in this 3-day series Ace the SAT and ACT class. Cost is $140. The menu will include December 11, 5pm to 6pm Teens are invited to explore the Gale Testing and Day 1 (Snack Foods) - Chili Broiled Wings and Education Reference Center database for use in Rings with Dipping Sauce; Pizza Pierogis; Sausage Pinwheel; Pecan Shortbread Cookies; studying for the ACT/SAT tests. Customers can choose to setup a free online account and take Day 2 (Global Cuisine) - Pulled Pork Arepas with Pickled Onions; Stir-Fried Beef with Leeks ACT/SAT practice tests. Jacksonville Public Library - Main Branch / 904-630-2665 / 303 N. served with Wild Mushroom Fried Rice; Tomato Laura Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / jpl.coj.net Queso Salad with Mango Habanero Dressing; Austrian Apple Cake; Day 3 (A Sweet Ending) Irish Soda Bread; Deep Dish Chocolate Pecan New Leaf Book Club Pie; Orange Panna Cotta; Balsamic Berry and December 15, 12noon to 1:30pm Sweet Chantilly Napoleons. Register online Book lovers, avid readers, and book club in advance. Publix Aprons Cooking School / enthusiasts, are invited for the library's book 904-262-4187 / 10500 San Jose Blvd Ste 36, club. Please bring your ideas and a list of Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www.publix.com reading suggestions. Free and open to teens and adults; light refreshments provided. Jacksonville Public Library - Highlands Visit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list Regional / 904-757-7702 / 1826 Dunn Avenue, of Teen events.

PETS

Oliver Was a Crafty Thief

or over 13 ½ years, our Labrador Retriever Oliver remained a puppy at heart – bursting with love and enthusiasm, all the time, but his body couldn’t keep going and we had to say goodbye. Losing him is a punch in the heart, but as we reminisce I find we laugh through the tears and shake our heads at the end of each story. He was just such a nut. And the sweetest dog I’ve ever known. No tribute to Oliver could ever be complete without an accounting of his dietary indiscretions. Despite being fairly dim-witted (bless his little heart), he was a crafty thief – it’s not as if we didn’t try to keep things out of his paws. Against all odds, nothing ever required surgical intervention. I would like to say this is an exhaustive list, but undoubtedly he had his secrets. And I’m sure anyone who ever dog-sat him has their own list of casualties to add. Unless otherwise noted, all of these things were actually swallowed, not just chewed. At Least It Was Food: • An entire box of All-Bran Extra Fibre Bran Buds. Talk about a cleanse… Oliver was doing it before it was trendy. • Reester’s peanut butter and chocolate bunnies, fully wrapped in foil. His poop was sparkly from the foil for a solid week. • Bermuda rum cakes, stolen out of guests’ suitcases. Aided and abetted by Raleigh, our older and normally more trustworthy lab. • Wasabi coated almonds, also stolen from a guest’s suitcase. He learned pretty quickly that despite our Oliver Warning Program for visitors, they tended to be less vigilant and therefore an endless source of treasures. • Christmas candy feast, including a giant Godiva gift box and sour patch candies. • Fruit bowl contents. Repeatedly until we learned we were a family that couldn’t have nice things like fruit bowls. • Bananas, with peel. Repeatedly. • Avocados, with peel but fortunately not the pits. Repeatedly. • More loaves of bread and bags of buns than we could track. • Bread dough left on the counter to rise. Only partially consumed before he was caught. • Three packs of cream cheese in one sitting. • Huge wedge of cheese from a serving platter at one of our wedding celebrations. One of his bolder thefts. • Flour. White and whole wheat.

The Flammable Phase:

• Tiki torch oil. • Large chunk of a chemical log AND matches. Triggered a temporary moratorium on belly rubs, just in case. • BBQ lighter with lighter fluid. Mostly only chewed, partially consumed. Toiletries: • Disposable razor blades. Only chewed, not swallowed. Repeatedly. • Soap. Repeatedly. This one has particularly unfortunate consequences. What-Was-He-Thinking: • Sandpaper. Um, ouch. • Mortar from a construction project. • Christmas ornaments. Impossible to determine from the tiny pieces left behind whether he actually ate some or just shredded. Could go either way. • An intact pinecone. Swallowed whole in Canada and vomited still in one piece in Bermuda. Should have declared to customs. • A wooden knife handle, allegedly – a visiting lab friend may have been the guilty party. I just know there was a full knife on the counter when we left the room, they had possession of the knife blade when we returned and the handle was never seen again. Fortunately no bloodshed. • Mail. Repeatedly. Yay confetti! • Corks covering the soil in plant pots (think Pinteresty). Some consumed, some shredded, some buried in the yard. • Books. Some only gnawed, others partially consumed. • A modem. Mostly only chewed, some small bits consumed. • Computer wires from my office building. Unclear whether only chewed or actually swallowed. I just collected him from IT and quickly exited. • Chunks of kitchen and bathroom cabinets and our bed. • Mud and compost from an in-ground garbage disposal compost thingy. Discovered when he threw up pounds of mud on the living room rug. • Wedding photo album. Only slightly consumed, definitely shredded. • Unidentifiable objects. Scrolling through our millions of Oliver photos, I’ve found an alarming number of pics of things he threw up and we photographed to send to the vet with a “What IS that???” You know what he wouldn’t eat? Parsley. I get that a dog might not enjoy leafy greens – he would sometimes eat spinach, kale, etc. and other times just taste them and spit them out. But he wouldn’t even TOUCH parsley. Given the list, really? That’s where he drew the line? Parsley?

Sarene Bourdages

Things to Do

Christmas "PAW"ty. Have your pooch’s picture taken with Santa, enjoy live music, and more. There will be an ugly sweater contest; deck your dog out in the cutest ugly sweater that you can find. For a $10 donation to Friends of Mega Pet Adoption Event Jacksonville Animals, Inc, your dog can have December 1, 10am to 6pm their picture taken with Santa. Yappy Hour is a First Coast No More Homeless Pets hosts a free dog happy hour for pups, their parents and Mega Pet Adoption. Together in one place, more dog lovers. Please make sure your pup is upthan ten groups bring their adoptable dogs, to-date on their shots and have the appropriate cats, puppies, and kittens in hopes that each identification tags. one will find forever homes. Free entry and free Jacksonville Landing / 904-353-1188 / 2 W parking. Jacksonville Fairgrounds / 904-425Independent Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / 0005 / 510 Fairgrounds Place, Jacksonville, FL www.jacksonvillelanding.com 32202 / www.fcnmhp.org Pet Photos With Santa - Avenues Mall Pet Photos With Santa at St. Johns Town December 9, 7pm to 9pm Center The Avenues Mall hosts Pet Photo Night on December 2 and December 9, 7pm to 9pm Sunday, December 9, from 7pm to 9pm. Bring your pets and join Santa for holiday Avenues Mall / 904-363-3054 / 10300 photos. Santa's workshop is located across Southside Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / from Nordstrom. St. Johns Town Center / 904- www.simon.com 998-7156 / 4663 River City Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.simon.com Pet Photos With Santa, Orange Park Mall December 9, 6pm to 8pm Friends of Jacksonville Animals Pet Bring your furry friend to get their photo taken Adoption Event • December 8, 11am to 3pm with Santa on Sunday, December 9th, 6pm to Friends of Jacksonville Animals hosts a pet 8pm. Santa will be located infront of JCPenney. adoption event in partnership with Beaches Orange Park Mall / 904-269-2422 / 1910 Wells shelters, and Pet Supermarket. Rd, Orange Park, FL 32073 / Pet Supermarket Jax Beach / 609 Beach orangeparkmall.com Boulevard, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / friendsofjaxanimals.com Like Jax4Pets.com’s Facebook page Yappy Hour Christmas "PAW"ty at facebook.com/jax4pets to find out December 9, 2pm to 5pm about other events for pets. Dogs and their owners are invited to the Jacksonville Landing for the Yappy Hour

Pet Events

NOVEMBER

2018 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 29

THINGS TO DO Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald in IMAX • Thru December 13 The second installment of the "Fantastic Beasts" series set in J.K. Rowling's Wizarding World featuring the adventures of magizoologist Newt Scamander. The film is rated PG-13. World Golf IMAX / 904-940-4133 / 1 World Golf Place, St. Augustine, FL 32092 / www.worldgolfimax.com Hall of Heroes at MOSH • Thru January 6 Hall of Heroes is a traveling exhibition that allows visitors to enter the world of superheroes, crimefighters, gadgets and spies to discover their superpowers in themed, immersive environments, interactive stations and displays of movie props, replicas and rare artifacts from major motion pictures and television shows. MOSH / 904-396-6674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org 37th Downtown Festival and Art Show December 1-2, 10am to 5pm The 37th Annual Downtown Festival & Art Show returns to the streets of historic downtown Gainesville, from City Hall to the Hippodrome State Theatre. The event features ive music, performing arts, a spectacular array of food, and over 240 local and national artists displaying original oils and acrylics, vibrant watercolors, unique sculptures, dazzling jewelry, decorative ceramics and vivid photography. Children can create their own art at the Imagination Station, a free hands-on art activity area including sidewalk-chalk drawing, painting, mask design, puppet creation, clay sculpting and interactive entertainment.Downtown Gainesville / 352-393-7993 / 111 East University Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601 / www.gainesvilledowntownartfest.org PAL Military Appreciation Day at the Hall of Fame • December 1, 10am The 61st Annual St. Augustine PAL Military Appreciation Day will take place on Saturday, December 1, 2018. For this annual event, the World Golf Hall of Fame & Museum is offering free admission for all active-duty service men and women and their families. This is a proud local tradition in St. Augustine, and a wonderful opportunity to show appreciation to our troops and their families. Offer includes museum admission only. Enjoy a round on the 18-hole natural grass putting green for just $5 per person. Take two shots on the Challenge Hole for just $5 (or five shots for $10). World Golf Village / 904-940-4133 / 1 World Golf Place, St. Augustine, FL 32092 / www.worldgolfhalloffame.org Jacksonville Symphony: A French Fantasy December 1, 8pm and December 2, 3pm Gemma New, a rising star conductor, takes the Symphony through a journey of French giants, from the playful The Sorcerer’s Apprentice to Debussy’s ethereal Nocturnes and Ravel’s hypnotic Boléro. The Jacksonville Symphony’s principal harpist, Kayo Ishimaru, takes the stage for Saint-Saëns’ entrancing concerto, Morceau de concert. Tickets start at $19. Times Union Center / 904-354-5547 / 300 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxsymphony.org Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Indianapolis Colts, December 2, 1pm vs. Washington Redskins, December 16, 1pm Jacksonville's NFL team, the Jacksonville Jaguars, take on the Indianapolis Colts, at TIAA Bank Field.

Single game tickets are available for purchase. New this season, tickets will available via Stadiumwide Mobile Ticketing. Newborns to age three are invited to join the Jaguars Cub Club. TIAA Bank Field / 904-633-6000 / 1 TIAA Bank Field Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaguars.com Cub Camp at TNT Gymnastics December 2, 11am to 5pm TNT Gymnastics invites parents who are heading to the Jaguars game to drop their kids off for Cub Camp. The camp is open to ages 5 and up and costs $55/child and $50/siblings. Entry includes gymnastics, obstacles, agility training, football craft, trampoline, foam pit, pizza, drinks, and more. Online registration is required. TNT Gymnastics / 904-998-8681 / 2683 Saint Johns Bluff Road S, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.tntgymfit.com Everyone Can Conserve December 5, 6:30pm to 7:30pm GTM Research Reserve has partnered with St Johns County Parks and Recreation for a family friendly conservation night. Come out and learn about a different topic each month; reptiles, marine mammals, pollinators, and more! These are educational programs that will feature live animals. Snacks and refreshments will also be provided. RSVP on the site below, so they know how many to expect. Free. Solomon Calhoun Center / 904-8234500 / 1300 Duval Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.eventbrite.com Family Storytime Classes December 6 and 20, 10:45am to 11:15am During the closure of the Ponte Vedra Beach Branch library, families are invited to the Ponte Vedra YMCA for storytime. YMCA members and non-members are welcome to attend. Non-YMCA members: Please arrive prior to 10:45am to sign a mandatory waiver and check in at the Welcome Center before attending storytime. Ponte Vedra YMCA / 904-8276950 / 170 Landrum Lane, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www.sjcpls.org TNT Gymnastics Ninja Night December 7, 6pm to 8pm Join TNT Gymnastics for a night dedicated to any Ninja’s in training. The first Friday of every month from 6pm to 8pm is Ninja Night at TNT Gymnastics. Cost is $15 (members) $20 (non-members). TNT Gymnastics / 904-998-8681 / 2683 Saint Johns Bluff Road S, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.tntgymfit.com Jax Mayorthon Kids Club Safety Stop December 8, 11am to 2pm Kids are invited to stop by the Main Branch of the Jacksonville Public Library for the Jax Mayorthon Kids Club Safety Stop station. Come learn about tools and practices that can keep kids safe on the roadways. Mayorthon Kids Club members can show their membership card to receive a special prize. There will be a bicycle rodeo, helmet fittings, games, giveaways, arts and crafts, and more. Also, Santa will stop by for pictures from 11:15am to 12noon. Free. Jacksonville Public Library - Main Branch / 904-630-2665 / 303 North Laura Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / http://www.jaxpubliclibrary.org Mandy Harvey December 8, 7:30pm Mandy Harvey, as seen on America's Got Talent, performs at the Ritz Theatre and Museum. General admission tickets are $25, and do not have assigned

Page 30 • Jax4Kids.com • NOVEMBER 2018

seating. Ritz Theatre and Museum / 904-807-2010 / 829 North Davis Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.ritzjacksonville.com St. Augustine Makers Fest • December 9, 11am The third annual St. Augustine Makers Fest™ is a festive celebration of “Makers” of all kinds, offering a wide variety of fun, hands-on activities at designated Makers Stations, where participants of all ages may tap into their own creative Makers spirit. Just in time for holiday shopping, the event will showcase one-of-a-kind gifts, crafts, unique apparel, jewelry, home décor and more from over 40 local and regional artisans and artists. For those wishing to explore their creativity in greater depth, select artists and artisans will be offering educational workshops. New this year, children will thrill to discover a Gingerbread Forest play area that will challenge them to create a 3-dimensional world with life-size “gingerbread” boxes. There will also be food for purchase, and live entertainment on two stages. The St Augustine Makers Fest™ serves as the principal fundraiser for the St Augustine Public Montessori School, a 501c3 non-profit and St. Johns County Public charter school. Admission is $5 per adult, free for kids 0-17. Discounted tickets for Makers Station activities, food and beverages will be available for purchase starting November 16th at Simple Gestures, 4 White St. E. and Anastasia Blvd., St Augustine, Florida. Regularly priced tickets for Makers Station activities, food and beverages will be available for purchase at the event. St Augustine Amphitheatre / 904-342-5350 / 1340C A1A South, St. Augustine, FL 32080 / www.staugustinemakersfest.org The Power of Yet December 12, 3:15pm to 4:15pm Young children can learn to be confident and resilient. Participants will be discussing the power of the word “yet” and how one simple word can help prevent failure. Instead of thinking “I can’t do it” they will be discussing ways to help children think “I can’t do it yet”. Adults and children who learn to value learning and develop a growth mindset are more likely to be successful when facing a challenge. 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. Fishweir Elementary School / 904-390-2960 / 3977 Herschel Street, Jacksonville, FL 32205 / dcps. duvalschools.org Jacksonville Icemen vs. Orlando Solar Bears, December 12, 7pm vs. Atlanta Gladiators, December 14, 7:30pm vs. Florida Everblades, December 15, 7pm vs. South Carolina Stingrays, December 19, 7pm vs. Orlando Solar Bears, December 27, 7pm vs. Orlando Solar Bears, December 28, 7:30pm The Jacksonville Icemen, proud affiliate of the NHL’s Winnipeg Jets and AHL’s Manitoba Moose, were recently awarded an ECHL membership. They return with the 2018-2019 season. Games will be played at the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena. Single game tickets are available, or packages can also be purchased. The Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena requires children that have reached their 2nd birthday by the date of the game to have a ticket for entry. Veterans Memorial Arena / 904-602-7825 / 300 A Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jacksonvilleicemen.com

TNT Gymnastics Tumbling Clinics December 14, 6pm to 7:30pm TNT Gymnastics has a tumbling clinic every second Friday of the month. This is a walk in event for ages 5 and up. $20 (members) $25 (non-members). TNT Gymnastics / 904-998-8681 / 2683 Saint Johns Bluff Road S, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.tntgymfit.com Color Me Kona “The World’s Largest Coloring Book Party” 2018 • December 15, 10am to 5pm Kona Skatepark hosts the World's Largest Coloring Book Party. This is a fundraiser for the Kid's Mural Project. There will be multiple new opportunities for young artists, performances by local talents of all types, live and interactive murals, and more. Color Me Kona is a donation based fundraiser that will support the mission of the Kid's Mural Project to continue bringing interactive murals and artistic opportunities to Title 1 schools and underprivileged youth and communities. Kona Skatepark / 904-725-8770 / 8739 Kona Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32211 / www.konaskatepark.com Rising Tides: McCoys Creek Cleanup December 16, 10am to 12noon The St. Johns Riverkeeper hosts a monthly cleanup at McCoys Creek. Meet at the Haskall Building at 10am. Be sure to bring a reusable water bottle, hat, sunglasses, and wear closed toed shoes. Rain boots, work boots, or waders are extremely helpful. Gloves and bags will be provided by City of Jacksonville and Keep Jacksonville Beautiful. Haskall Building / 904-563-5160 / 111 Riverside Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.stjohnsriverkeeper.org Celtic Thunder X December 20, 7:30pm Celtic Thunder X celebrates ten years of Celtic Thunder. They will perform both traditional and contemporary Irish Songs, Classic Hits, Love Songs, Nostalgic Songs, and more. Tickets start at $58 and are available online. Times Union Center / 904-633-6110 / 300 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.timesunioncenter.com Marineland Mini Camp December 21, 9am to 3pm Marineland hosts a mini day camp when kids are out of school. Kids ages 7 to 12 are invited for a Seaside Eco Adventure. They can meet the sea turtles and the people who take care of them, interact with a dolphin during the pool-side touch and play program, and more. Cost is $75. Space is limited. Register in advance to reserve your spot. Marineland / 904-471-1111 x103 / 9600 Oceanshore Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080 / marineland.net Terry Fator • December 28, 8pm Terry Fator, 2007 winner of America's Got Talent, will perform at the Florida Theatre. Tickets start at $39.50, and are available online. Florida Theatre / 904-355-5661 / 128 East Forsyth Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / floridatheatre. ticketforce.com

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!

NOVEMBER

2018 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 31