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In this issue: Health & Safety Guide
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February 2018
“EQUAL PARTS DRAMA AND CALL TO ACTION, THIS FILM PIERCES THE HEART AND TUGS THE SOUL.”
Page 2 • Jax4Kids.com • February 2018
Contents
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
LIVING WELL
Dear Readers,
Community Profile: Stroke Out Cancer ................................................................4 Mom’s Night Out Events ......................................................................................5 14 Ways to Show Love for Your Child This Valentine’s Day.....................................6 Valentine’s Books ...............................................................................................6
W
e hope 2018 has gotten off to a healthy and happy start! In this, our annual Health & Safety issue, we are bringing you valuable information to help keep your family safe and healthy. Do you have a First-Aid Kit? If so and you haven’t checked the contents to make sure medicines haven’t expired, the new year is a good time to do that. If you don’t have a kit, turn to page 13 for a list of what to stock. If you have pets, turn to page 29 and program the after hours emergency vet center near you into your phone. February is National Children’s Dental Health Month and the ADA is a wealth of information to help you learn about keeping your child’s teeth healthy. Turn to page 17 and read about Sippy Cups, Snacking and Tooth Decay. This article has some great, need-to-know information. Have you heard of The Tide Pod Challenge? The Florida Poison Information Center wants you to warn your teens about the dangers of participating in this social media dare. Turn to page 18 and read about it. If you are buying and selling items online, turn to page 17 for valuable information from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office about where you can safely conduct these transactions. You’ll find more valuable health and safety information on pages 13 – 20.
February 2018
INFANT & TODDLER Toilet-Training Timetable Depends on Where You Live ...........................................7 RSV Can Be Deadly For Younger Children.............................................................9
SPECIAL NEEDS Fighting Peer Rejection......................................................................................10
TEENS Motivation and the Power of Not Giving Up.........................................................11 for teachers on page 24. Children with food allergies are often left out of Valentine’s traditions because most candies contain allergens. FARE – Food Allergy Research and Education’s – Be A PAL-entine program is designed to create awareness and teach families, schools and caregivers how to make Valentine’s Day all-inclusive. Turn to page 13 to read more. It’s time to start planning for Spring Break. Turn to page 25 to see some of the many Spring Break Camps that are available to enrich your child’s life. You’ll find an always updated list of Spring Break Camps online at Jax4Kids.com. Until next month, Alison Peters-Carlson
This month we celebrate love and relationships. Editor Turn to page 6 and read 14 Ways to Show Love for Your Child This Valentine’s Day and check out the list of books about Love and Valentine’s Day you can read with your child. You’ll find gift ideas
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 Doug Berle Advertising Sales......................................... doug@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.
NATURE Bigger is Better in Birddom................................................................................12
HEALTH & SAFETY Help Fight Antibiotic Resistance .........................................................................13 Be A PAL-entine! ..............................................................................................13 Bruxism (Teeth Grinding or Clenching)................................................................13 First-Aid Kit.......................................................................................................13 It’s Not Too Late To Get A Flu Shot......................................................................14 Diabetes Rates Increasing in American Youth .....................................................15 How Sweet It Is!.................................................................................................16 Smartphone Addiction and Children....................................................................16 Sipping, Snacking, and Tooth Decay...................................................................17 Keep Your Children Safe from Fire and Burns......................................................17 Safer Transactions.............................................................................................17 Emotional Wellness............................................................................................18 Tide Pod Challenge: A Dangerous Dare Taking Social Media By Storm.................18 Dramatic Increase in ADHD Prescriptions Filled by Reproductive-age Women ....................................................................19 May Be Time For a New Pair of Shades..............................................................19
EDUCATION Become a Math Whiz In Four Easy Steps ...........................................................20 Applications Now Being Accepted for CISV .........................................................20 SING OUT: Every Child Has Musical Ability...........................................................21 Parent Academy Scholarships............................................................................22 Florida STEM & Health Expo...............................................................................22 Regional Spelling Bee Has New Sponsor ............................................................23 A World of Apps ................................................................................................23 It’s Testing Season! Are Your Kids Ready?...........................................................24 My Color-Full Florida .........................................................................................24 Valentine’s Gift Ideas for Teachers......................................................................24
SPRING BREAK CAMPS...........................................................25 DUVAL COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS ............................26 ST. JOHNS COUNTY SCHOOL NEWS..........................27 CLAY COUNTY SCHOOL NEWS ........................................28 PETS Pet Snack Options ............................................................................................29 Pet Emergency Contacts....................................................................................29
THINGS TO DO
February Events ................................................................................................30 FEBRUARY 2018 • Jax4Kids.com •
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LIVING WELL
Community Profile: Stroke Out Cancer
Young Man Swims for a Reason
I
nspired by his father’s fight against cancer, Jacksonville teenager Michael Bucher founded “Stroke Out Cancer: Swimming for a reason,” a fundraiser website to help others. A varsity swimmer at Providence High School, the sophomore solicits funds based on the number of miles he swims each year.
Michael Bucher and his dad Joe “After I have seen how cancer affects even a mature adult, I can only imagine the pain it has on a child and the pain and stress it causes for their families. The one thing that hurts me the most is seeing kids affected by cancer. It is so upsetting to look at the facts about how many children suffer every day from cancer. Every single day, 43 children are diagnosed with cancer; and out of those 43, five will not survive. The average age of a child cancer diagnosis is 6 years old. After seeing these statistics, it really makes me want to make a difference, however small that difference is.”
if he ever had the chance, he would create a way to help families with children battling cancer. The Jay Fund has helped over 4,000 families and given away over $9 million in grants helping thousands of families in Northeast Florida and the New York/New Jersey Metropolitan Area. See tcjayfund.org for more information. “I chose the Child Cancer Fund because I know the story behind it, and what they have done to help children who face cancer. They host fun activities to help those affected live better, happier lives.” The Child Cancer Fund is a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting children and their families through the challenges of a childhood cancer diagnosis and treatment. The non-profit organization was established in 1994 by a group of Jacksonville parents whose children were receiving treatment for cancer at Wolfson Children Hospital and Nemours Children’s Speciality Care. The Child Cancer Fund serves families whose children have been diagnosed with cancer and are receiving treatment at these facilities. See childcancerfund. org for more information.
“I chose Wolfson’s Children’s Hospital because I was part of their asthma research program a few years ago, where I received new inhalers and breathing treatments, and I want to make sure others get the same treatment I received.” The 216-bed Wolfson Children’s Hospital is the only full-service tertiary hospital for children in the region, serving North Florida, South Georgia and beyond. They provide care for all children, regardless of their ability to pay. The Community Asthma Partership at Wolfson offers programs and resources that teach parents, students, Michael suffers from asthma so he decided to educators, health providers and other community include an organization that deals with that members about asthma and how to successfully condition as well. He selected three local charities manage this disease. Their goal is to break the to receive all the funds raised: The Jay Fund, The cycle of repeated asthma attacks so children and Child Cancer Fund and the Wolfson’s Children’s families can manage asthma on a daily basis. Hospital asthma research unit. See wolfsonchildrens.org for more information. “I chose The Jay Fund as one of the 3 charities, because The Jay Fund not only helps children with cancer until they are healed, but they allow them to have a more normal life after they recover, with opportunities like scholarships.” The Tom Coughlin Jay Fund Foundation was created in 1996 in honor of Jay McGillis, a member of Coach Coughlin’s team at Boston College who died of leukemia. In the eight months between Jay’s diagnosis and the day he lost his battle with cancer, the Coughlin family saw firsthand the physical, emotional and financial strains the illness caused the McGillis family. He vowed that
According to his website strokeoutcancer.com, Michael has swam 211 miles so far this season. “The new season has started, and with that begins the new opportunity to make a difference in the community. I ask for your help to make these kids’ lives easier, and to make a donation that will make a difference in someone’s life.” j Strokeoutcancer.com
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Mom’s Night Out Events Autobahn Ladies Night Out Fridays, February 2, 9, 16, 23, 6pm to 11pm Autobahn Indoor Speedway hosts Ladies Night Out, every Friday after 6pm. Ladies will receive $5 off single races. Not valid on holidays. Autobahn Indoor Speedway / 904-674-8551 / 6601 Executive Park Ct N, Jacksonville, FL 32216 / www.autobahnspeed.com
als will be provided. A perfect, free event for moms. Jacksonville Public Library - Westbrook Branch / 904-384-7424 / 2809 Commonwealth Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32254 / www.jaxpubliclibrary.org
BTC Fashion Show and Pop Up Party to Benefit Dreams Come True February 22, 6pm to 9pm Fionn MacCool’s Nocatee Grand Opening Hotel Palms Presents The Beaches Town Center February 3-4 Boutique Fashion Show and Pop Up Party to Fionn MacCool’s hosts the Grand Opening of benefit Dreams Come True of Jacksonville, Inc.their new Nocatee location. There will be live a local wish granting organization dedicated entertainment to help celebrate the much antici- to fulfilling the dreams of children with lifepated opening. Perfect for a Mom’s Night Out! threatening illnesses. All proceeds from ticket Fionn MacCool’s, Nocatee / 904-217-7021 / sales will be donated directly to Dreams Come 145 Hilden Road, Ponte Vedra, FL 32081 / www. True and assist in sending a local child on their fionnmacs.com dreams. This event will feature a runway showcasing the hottest in fall fashions from Jaffi’s, Diamonds and Designs Chic Mode Party AshleGryre, Fig & Willow, DRIFT Boutique and February 3, 12noon to 5pm Jax Surf and Paddle, There will also be fun popDiamonds and Designs hosts a ladies evening ups from your favorite Beaches Town Center out with shopping and networking. Entry is free; merchants. Tickets are $25 for General Admiscash and credit card are accepted for purchase sion, which includes entry to the party and one from vendors. Solomon Calhoun Community drink ticket; or $50 for VIP, which includes entry, Center / 1300 Duval Street, St. Augustine, FL preferred seating, two drink tickets and a swag 32084 / www.eventbrite.com bag. Tickets will be limited, so reserve them early. Wine Class and Tasting Hotel Palms / 28 Sherry Drive, Atlantic Beach, February 6, 6pm to 7:30pm FL 32233 / fundraise.dreamscometrue.org Enjoy this wine class and tasting at TPC Sawgrass. Learn about the wines of the world. The Moxie Ladies Night Out Networking + Social cost is $25. To make your reservation, contact February 26, 5:30pm to 8:30pm Christina Caruk at 904-543-5105. Grab a girlfriend for a fun night out of networkTPC Sawgrass, Champions Dining Room / 904- ing, shopping and mingling at Moxie Kitchen + 543-5105 / 110 Championship Way, Ponte Vedra Cocktails. All women are welcome to attend the Beach, FL 32082 / tpc.com free Networking Socials but please register your ticket online. Vendors will be doing giveaways Adult Coloring Program and raffles all night. Moxie Kitchen + Cocktails February 21, 5pm to 6pm / 904-998-9744 / 4972 Big Island Drive, JackCome color away the stress. Adults will color as sonville, FL 32246 / moxiefl.com a therapeutic way of eliminating stress. Materi-
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! Classes will be taught and supervised by a certified Art Teacher with 25 years experience in this proven method of Studio Art Education. Students will work with pencil, charcoal, ink, printmaking, painting, design, water colors, cast paper, clay and much, much more! Art classes are available to children ages 3 and up, and will meet once a week. 7 year curriculum. Tuition is $84/month. Classes meet at: 8411 Baymeadows Way #2 1406 Kingsley Ave Jacksonville, FL 32256 Orange Park, FL 32073 Don’t miss out on this opportunity! Give your child this gift of Art! Class size is limited so register TODAY! Call for further information or visit us online at www.childrensartclasses.com to view details and print out your own REGISTRATION FORM. Upon registration, you will receive confirmation and registration packet.
BAYMEADOWS 8411 Baymeadows Way #2 Jacksonville, FL 32256 Barbara Gay 904.612.7557 Stephanie Larsen 904.962.4292
ORANGE PARK 1406 Kingsley Ave Orange Park, FL 32073 Barbara Gay 904.612.7557 Jessica Grotberg 904.729.6144
Free Couples Workshops Come join the fun for FREE! Dr. Nekeshia Doctor and KaTori Roussel with the University of Florida will teach COUPLES effective and proven SKILLS to increase positive communication, manage stress, set financial goals, deal with differences, and maintain a happy and healthy friendship bond. These exciting workshops, called ELEVATE, will be held once a week for 5 weeks from 5:30–8:00 pm.
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.
WORKSHOP 1 will meet on TUESDAYS Feb. 13th, Feb. 20th, Feb. 27th, Mar. 6th, and Mar. 13th at Wells Fargo, 1601 N Main St, 2nd Floor, Jacksonville, FL 32206. WORKSHOP 2 will meet on WEDNESDAYS Feb. 14th, Feb. 21st, Feb. 28th, Mar. 7th, and Mar. 14th at UF/IFAS Extension Duval County, 1010 N McDuff Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32254. WORKSHOP 3 will meet on THURSDAYS Feb. 15th, Feb. 22nd, Mar. 1st, Mar. 8th, and Mar. 15th at UF/IFAS Extension Duval County, 1010 N McDuff Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32254. WORKSHOP 4 will meet on THURSDAYS Feb. 15th, Feb. 22nd, Mar. 1st, Mar. 8th, and Mar. 15th at USO Center, 2560 Mayport Road, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233. A FREE light MEAL will be served at each class and each attendee will receive a FREE USB drive. You may also be eligible for GIFT CARDS. PRE-REGISTRATION is REQUIRED. Go to the Classes/Events page at www.smartcouples.org and select Duval County or contact Nekeshia Doctor at n.doctor@ufl.edu or KaTori Roussel at kroussel@ufl.edu or call 904-255-7450 to register. Funding is provided by the United States Department Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Grant: # 90FM0079. These classes are available to all eligible persons, regardless of race, gender, age, disability or religion.
FEBRUARY 2018 • Jax4Kids.com •
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LIVING WELL
14 Ways to Show Love for Your Child This Valentine’s Day 1. Use plenty of positive and encouraging words with your child. Try to avoid using sarcasm or mockery and get rid of putdowns from the words you use as a parent. Children often don’t understand your purpose, and if they do, these messages can create negative-ways of talking and connecting with each other. 2.
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offering another way to connect with someone they care about.
9. One of the best ways to have your child learn more about good food choices is to encourage him to cook with you. Let him get involved in the entire process, from planning the menus to shopping for ingredients to the actual food preparation and its serving. It is Make an extra effort to set a good example wonderful when families eat together as about how to connect and talk with other much as possible. Good food, good converpeople at home and in public. Use words like sations. These are excellent times to model “I’m sorry,” “please,” and “thank you.” healthy food choices. Children learn a lot from observing and 10. As your child grows up, she’ll spend most of imitating their parent’s behavior. her time improving upon a variety of skills Respond promptly and lovingly to your and abilities that she gains in all areas of her child’s physical and emotional needs. Be life. You should help her as much as possible available to listen to your child when he or by encouraging her and providing the tools she wants to talk with you even if it’s not the and teaching she needs. Start reading to best time for you. Ask your child “How was your child beginning at six months. Avoid TV your day?” and listen to the answer. in the first two years, monitor and watch TV with your older children and use TV time as When your child is angry, grouchy, or in a one topic for conversation time with your bad mood, give him a quick hug, cuddle, pat, children. Limit computer and video games. secret nod or other sign of affection he responds to and then consider talking with 11. Your child’s health depends a lot on the care him about it when he’s feeling better. and support you offer during his early years. By taking your child to the doctor regularly Use non-violent forms of discipline. Parents for well child or preventive health care visits, should start using both rewards and teaching him how to be safe from injuries, restrictions many years before adolescence providing a healthy and nutritious diet, and to help establish ways to encourage encouraging good amounts of sleep, strengths and address concerns during the physical activity, and exercise throughout teenage years. Allowing children of any age childhood, you help protect and strengthen to constantly break important rules without his mind and body. Model these behaviors being disciplined only encourages more for your child(ren) on a daily basis. rules to not be followed. 12. Help your child foster positive relationships Make plans to spend time alone with your with friends, siblings and members of the young child or teen doing something she community. Consider inviting friends or enjoys on a regular basis. Encourage your neighbors to spend time drinking tea, having child to be active by going on walks, bicycle a meal, playing a game, or helping others in riding, or playing ball with him or her. need. Encourage your child to play sports or Consider sending a Valentine’s Day card to be involved in activities that show team your older child or teen. Think about making work. Valentine’s Day cards together with your preschool or younger school age child. 13. One of your most important gifts as a parent is to help your child develop self-esteem. Mark family game nights on your calendar Your child needs your steady support and so the entire family can look forward to help to discover his strengths. He needs you having ways to enjoy spending time together. to believe in him as he learns to believe in Put a different family member’s name under himself. Loving him, spending time with him, each date, and have that person choose listening to him and celebrating lessons which game will be played that evening. Turn learned from his mistakes and successes off cellphones and/or tablets during these are all part of this process. family times. 14. Don’t forget to say, “I love you” to children of Consider owning a pet, if possible. Having a all ages! j pet can help make some children, especially those with chronic illnesses and disabilities, healthychildren.org feel better by increasing their physical activity, enhancing their overall feelings, and
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SOMEBODY LOVES YOU, Mr. HATCH by Eileen Spinelli, is a modest picture book with a terrific message about loving kindness and caring for others. Even very young children will relate to Mr. Hatch and how thrilled he is to receive a mysterious Valentine’s Day treat (Who sent it?) and how it changes his behavior, making him much more outgoing and friendly. They will also feel sad with him when he finds out the gift was not really meant for him. Best of all, they will rejoice at the ending. THE VERY FAIRY PRINCESS FOLLOWS HER HEART is one of a series of picture books by Julie Andrews and Emma Walton Hamilton, with illustrations by Christine Davenier. The main character, Gerry, is a little girl who likes to dress up like a fairy princess. This story is about Valentine’s Day. After all of the fun of making very fancy Valentine’s Day cards for her classmates, Gerry leaves them at home. What happens when Gerry finds out and how she still provides Valentines for each of her classmates makes for a very positive and satisfying story. HERE COMES VALENTINE CAT features the same lovable, but grouchy and sometime devious, cat first featured in author Deborah Underwood’s Here Comes Easter Cat. The cat, who doesn’t like Valentine’s Day, is increasingly irritated by his new neighbor next door, a dog who throws bones and a ball over the fence hitting the cat. The cat is about ready to send a mean Valentine’s Day card to the dog. However, the narrator and a nice Valentine’s Day card from the dog help the cat to realize the dog is lonely and wants to be friends. SNOWY VALENTINE is a sweet story and a good picture book for ages 3-6. Jasper Bunny loves his wife Lilly so much that he wants to get her a very special Valentine’s Day gift. The problem is that he doesn’t know what to get her. In search of ideas, he leaves their home and, despite the snow and cold, walks down to the neighboring valley to get ideas from some of their animal neighbors. After a discouraging afternoon, Jasper is startled to learn that he has, without even knowing it, created the perfect gift for Lilly. Snowy Valentine is the first picture book by author and illustrator David Petersen. The pop-up edition of GUESS HOW MUCH I LOVE YOU, the popular picture book by Sam McBratney, with its captivating illustrations by Anita Jeram, is perfect for Valentine’s Day. This story of the love between parent and child has become a classic since it was first published more than a decade ago and the pop-up edition is a delight. It would make a good Valentine’s Day gift for both children and adults. Candlewick Press published the pop-up edition in 2011. IF YOU’LL BE MY VALENTINE by Cynthia Rylant, illustrated by Fumi Kosaka features a little boy who creates Valentines for all the loved ones in his life – his pets, family, and even his teddy bear – describing how they could spend time together “if you’ll be my valentine.” If you’d like your Valentine’s celebrations to focus on kindness and ‘from the heart’ card giving over more commercial approaches to the holiday, this simple but heartwarming title is a great choice.
INFANT & TODDLER
Toilet-Training Timetable Depends on Where You Live
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owadays, only around half of U.S. children are fully toilet-trained by age three. Chinese grandmothers would be appalled. They’d likely point out that with “split pants,” most kids are trained by age two. This traditional wardrobe item features an opening along the crotch seam, allowing children to urinate and defecate freely without soiling their clothes. These garments remain the pants style of choice for toddlers living in the Chinese countryside. There’s no one-size-fits-all model of child-rearing advice for all the world’s parents. To spread this message, my colleagues and I collaborated on the book “A World of Babies: Imagined Childcare Guides for Eight Societies,” based on our own and others’ long-term ethnographic fieldwork in places ranging from Israel and the Palestinian territories to China, Portugal, Peru, Denmark, Côte d’Ivoire and a Somali-American community in Minneapolis. By presenting multiple solutions to the commonest challenges facing parents, we hope to provide a bit of a tonic for parents, to assure them that there’s more than one path to raising a well-adjusted child. So, why do parents choose a given child-rearing practice? Often, it comes down to money and availability. In Côte d’Ivoire, Beng mothers begin training their infants’ bowels a few days after birth. They administer enemas twice daily, beginning the day a newborn’s dried-out umbilical cord stump drops off. By the time the little one is a few months old, caregivers shouldn’t have to worry about him pooping during the day at all.
someone’s back produces revulsion. Given the local attitude toward feces, no potential babysitter would take care of a child likely to poop on her back while being carried. Hence, starting potty-training from birth aims to help a mother get her farmwork done. In that sense, early toilet-training promotes an adequate food supply for a mother’s family. A Western observer might shrink in horror from this practice, imagining long-lasting emotional maladjustments from early trauma. But, discounting the ravages of poverty that challenge health and deny educational and economic opportunity, these very early toilet-trained babies appear to grow into just as happy and welladjusted adults as diaper-wearing children might become. In motivation, this practice may not even be as exotic as it might appear to a non-Beng reader. In the U.S., women’s labor needs may also dictate potty-training schedules, albeit with a later timeline. Many daycare centers accept only children who are fully potty-trained. If a working mother lacks both in-home daycare options and babysitting relatives, she may work frantically to potty-train her toddler as soon as possible, so she may return to full-time paid work.
For stay-at-home moms, or working moms who have nearby relatives to care for their child, different life situations may dictate toilet-training decisions. In the Palestinian territories, for instance, many women start toilet-training around 14 or 15 months. They’re able to start early because they aren’t working outside the home, so they have the time. On the other hand, What could account for such a seemingly extreme a Palestinian working woman may start toilettraining later, maybe around age two. In this case, practice? For one thing, disposable diapers are women in the extended family (“hamula”) would unavailable in Beng villages – and throughout much of the global south. Moreover, even if they care for the child while the mother worked, so no daycare rule compels early toilet-training. were sold in local markets, few subsistencefarming families could afford them. (And the planet can’t afford them, either. Environmentalists Once we explore the local context of people’s calculate that “disposable” diapers constitute the daily lives, seemingly exotic or even abusive practices – split pants, infant enemas – suddenly third-largest single consumer item in landfills, seem far less so. Opening the minds of worried and their production requires some 7 billion new parents to “other” ways of raising children gallons of oil each year.) may assuage fears that if they fail to “do the right thing,” their children will be doomed. Through But availability and affordability tell only part of the story. The structure of labor plus deep-seated exploring comparative commode customs, along with many other parenting practices, it’s clear values also shape parents’ choices. there are many “right ways” to raise a child. j In Côte d’Ivoire (as elsewhere across sub-Saharan Africa), Beng babies spend most of their days Alma Gottlieb/Professor Emerita of Anthropology, attached to someone’s back. Often, that someone African Studies, and Gender and Women’s Studies, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is not the mother – who is working in her fields, producing crops to feed her large family. Beng The Conversation.com society (unlike traditional Chinese society) also rates all feces (including those of babies) as disgusting, and the thought of a baby pooping on
Things to Do Infant & Toddler
Toddler Time at Rebounderz February 5, 6, 12, 13, 20, 26, 27 9:30am to 11:30am Rebounderz offers Toddler Time from 9:30am to 11:30am for ages 5 and under. One adult is admitted for free with each child’s $8 paid admission. A valid waiver & Rebounderz jump socks are required for all participants. Toddler Time is not held on any school or federal holidays. There will be a special Valentine’s Day Party on Monday & Tuesday, February 12th & 13th. Rebounderz / 904-300-0070 / 14985 Old St. Augustine Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258 / rebounderzjacksonville.com Art For Two: Shapes, Lines, Colors, Oh My February 10, 10:30am to 12noon Make art with your little one and enjoy gallery and garden visits on the second Saturday of each month. While viewing abstract art in the galleries, students will learn about color theory and color mixing and then return to the studio to create a monochromatic painting using lines and shapes. Open to children ages 3 through 5 and their favorite adult. Class size is limited. For further information, please email education@ cummermuseum.org or call 904-355-0630. Members $15 per pair, Non-Members $20 per pair. Registration required. This month’s topic is Animal Hunt. Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens / 904-3566857 / 829 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.cummermuseum.org
galleries, garden, and studios. Entry is through Art Connections. Class size is limited. For further information, please email education@cummermuseum.org or call 904-355-0630. Cost is Members $15 per pair, Non-Members $20 per pair; Registration Required. This month’s theme is In the Forest. Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens / 904355-0630 / 829 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.cummermuseum.org Mini Moments at Jacksonville Country Day School • February 16, 9am to 9:45am Jacksonville Country Day School invites you to visit the campus for a fun experience and a glimpse into their Pre-K program. Designed for two and three-year-olds along with a parent or caregiver, Mini-Moments are your chance to participate in an interactive event with your child, make new friends, and learn about the school. This month’s program features Learning Centers - You and your child will have the chance to explore different materials in an open center time just like the children do in the Pre-K classes at JCDS. There will be light exploration, artistic centers, building centers and more. This is a free event but space is limited. For more information or to RSVP, please email admissions@jcds.com. Jacksonville Country Day School / 904-6416644 / 10063 Baymeadows Road, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / www.jcds.com
Yoga Cubs at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens • February 17, 9:15am to 10am Navigate the early stages of motherhood, reduce anxiety, stretch, relax, breathe and bond with your child during a baby and mommy yoga class with Bay & Bee. Yoga Cubs is a fun way Little Learners at MOSH to reconnect with your body while enjoying time February 14, 9:30am to 11:30am with your baby and meeting other new moms. Bring your little ones to MOSH on the second Infants will respond to the rhythm and tempo of Wednesday of every month for exclusive prothe music while strengthening the muscles in gramming designed for learning and developtheir head, neck, shoulders and core. This class ment and watch them grow. These programs is designed for moms (or dads/grandparents) encompass various learning styles and activiand babies: newborn to 7 months old. Classes ties for preschool aged children that help to will be taught by Lauren McGuinness, a RYTenhance their skills and dexterity. All activities 200 certified yoga instructor, from Bay & Bee. are designed to encourage caregivers to engage Yoga Cubs will meet the Third Saturday of each their little ones in conversations and to work month at 9:15am. Classes are 45-minutes long with them through each station. Please note that and take place at the PepsiCo Foundation EduLittle Learners encourages child/caregiver inter- cation Campus located at the south end of the action and requires one registered adult per two Zoo’s main parking lot. You do not need to enter children. Due to the popularity of these events, the Zoo in order to enter the education campus. we highly recommend you register in advance to Feel free to bring your own yoga mat from home guarantee your place. Once online availability is or you may purchase a Zoo education logo’d gone, no further tickets will be sold at the door. yoga mat for $20 (cash or card). Pricing: Zoo (Caregivers must register themselves and their Members - $12 per adult/baby pair, $6 each children for each month’s program). Admission additional adult; Non Members - $15 per adult/ is $6/person for ages 3 and up. This month’s baby pair, $7 each additional adult. Registratheme is Little Olympics. tion for all classes will be processed online on Museum of Science and History / 904-396-6674 a first-come, first-served basis. We do not take / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / registrations over the telephone. Class size themosh.org is limited to the first 12 adult/baby pairs that register. Deadline for registration each month is Art For Tots at the Cummer Museum of Art & 12pm the Friday before the scheduled class. Gardens • February 15 or February 17 Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens / 904-757-4463 9:30am to 10:30am / 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218 / The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens hosts www.jacksonvillezoo.org Art For Tots. This class is for children 24-36 months and an accompanying adult. The Stroller Safari at the Jacksonville Zoo and program is designed to help develop a child’s Gardens • February 24, 8:45am to 9:30am sensory and motor skills through art, movement, Stroller Safari is a special introduction to the Zoo music, and storytelling and takes place in the FEBRUARY 2018 • Jax4Kids.com •
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Page 8 • Jax4Kids.com • February 2018
INFANT & TODDLER
RSV Can Be Deadly For Younger Children f your child is younger than 2 years old, he or she could be vulnerable to a potentially deadly virus disguised as the common cold this winter. The common and highly contagious respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is most prevalent during fall, winter and spring, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Children catch RSV just like any other virus,” said emergency room physician Dr. Marco Coppola. “The two most common ways are by droplets of mucus in the air that land on the face or hands from coughing and sneezing, touching an object that has the virus living on it and then touching the eyes, nose or mouth,” Coppola said. RSV can impact people of any age, but when it infects the respiratory tracts of young children, it can lead to serious complications. Severity of the illness ranges anywhere from a cold to pneumonia and bronchiolitis. Almost everyone contracts RSV by the time they are 2 years old, Coppola said. Although most children recover on their own, in rare cases, RSV can be life-threatening. The virus kills more than 40 annually in the United States, according to researchers at the University of Utah. Julie Whitney recalls Super Bowl weekend of 1995 as a frightening experience with RSV that landed her then 3-month-old son in the hospital for three days. “He had a raspy, wheezing sound in his chest, and the pediatrician told me to keep an eye on it and if he stopped taking formula to let her know,” Whitney said. Her son began struggling to drink his formula, even projectile vomiting it when his parents tried to feed him. He was placed in respiratory isolation, where doctors worked to suction his lungs every few hours, as infants are too young to clear their own lungs by coughing. “We left the room; it was horrific to watch,” Whitney said. Her son was one of 57,000 children under age 5 who are hospitalized annually in the U.S. with RSV, according to the CDC. The virus hospitalizes approximately 3.4 million children under the age of 5 worldwide each year. Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention Most of RSV’s symptoms will appear to mimic
those of the common cold, including fever, reduced appetite, wheezing, coughing and runny nose. Parents of young children who aren’t yet verbal should pay attention to symptoms such as faster-than-normal breathing, sluggishness or tiredness and loss of appetite, said Coppola. Adults may experience similar symptoms for anywhere between three days and a week. Currently, there’s no cure for RSV, so physicians treat symptoms associated with the illness. “Fever reducers, cough suppressants, steroids for opening airways and even intravenous liquids for a patient that is dehydrated are all ways we treat RSV,” Coppola said. Medical experts advise frequent hand-washing and covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing to avoid spreading the illness. Current Vaccine Research Researchers have worked to develop an effective RSV vaccine since the 1960s. “The virus by itself does not induce a very good antibody response and affects very young babies, which explains why it has been so difficult to develop vaccines,” said Dr. Octavio Ramilo, division chief of Infectious Diseases at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. A few years after the virus was discovered, researchers developed and administered a provisional vaccine that turned out to be ineffective. “Not only did it not work, but some of the babies who [were vaccinated] got very sick, and there were a few deaths,” Ramilo said. Decades later, there is still no approved RSV vaccine, but medical experts continue researching effective methods of protecting children, the elderly and pregnant women against the virus. “I’m much more optimistic than I was 5 or even 10 years ago,” said Ramilo, who is part of a team of researchers who have worked on developing an RSV vaccine for children worldwide over the past 20 years. j Accuweather.com
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SPECIAL NEEDS
Fighting Peer Rejection
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’m a mom to two teenage girls. When I tell people this, some laugh knowingly, and most offer pity. I now work with teens who are socially isolated or rejected by their peers. Parents ask me to intervene when their kids are being teased or bullied, or if they’re not developing or maintaining friendships. We often hope it’s a phase and that it will get better. But the science of behavior shows that negative experiences will more likely discourage teens from trying to make friends after a while. This puts their mental health at risk. So what can be done? Here are my tips for parents of kids showing signs of peer rejection or social isolation: 1. Use positive reinforcement. For many kids, especially those with ADHD, anxiety or Autism, social situations are hard. Celebrate the attempts and successes, no matter how small. If they have a setback, address it and move on.
3. Help them find an appropriate source of friends. Your teen might be trying to fit in with a group that doesn’t accept him. You can suggest trying another group based on common interests. If they haven’t been able to make friends at school, enroll them in an extracurricular. Free activities at the library or even volunteering gives them exposure to peers who share their interests. 4. Coach them through tough situations. When teasing, bullying, rumors or gossip happen, give advice based on what other teens do. Teach your teen to shrug it off and make it apparent to the teaser that it doesn’t bother them. Having a group of friends also protects against bullying.
5. Enroll in a social skills class. Social skills classes are available to teens with and without diagnosed disabilities. The PEERS program 2. Encourage self-awareness. Sometimes teasing (proactivelifeskills.org/social-skills--peersreg. is really embarrassing feedback about hygiene html) is a parent-assisted, research-based or something else hard to hear. If we know program that teachs conversation skills, what we need to work on, we’re able to electronic communication, appropriate uses of practice and develop skills in that area. humor, sportsmanship, hosting get-togethers, Acknowledging a weakness in social situations, handling teasing and bullying and more. j such as having trouble keeping a conversation going or not knowing how to play fair, is the Kelly Weedon Noda, educator and therapist and first step in building social skills. owner/director of Proactive Life Skills LLC.
EDUCATE. ENGAGE. INSPIRE. Believe in your children and champion their educational opportunity at JSA. Our students and devoted parents inspire us each and every day! www.JSAKIDS.org | 904.732.4343 9000 Cypress Green Drive | Jacksonville, Florida 32256
Page 10 • Jax4Kids.com • February 2018
Things to Do Special Needs Events
Jumpstreet Special Needs Event February 3, 9am to 11am Jumpstreet hosts a special event for children with special needs and their siblings. The semi-private event will be held the first Saturday of the month. From 9am to 10am, the event is private; from 10am to 11am, the event is open to the public. Cost is $8 for children 4 and up; $4 for children 3 and under. Parents/guardians are free. Jumpstreet / 904-853-5721 / 1214 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / www.gotjump. com Camp I Am Special - Super Saturdays February 3, 9am to 2pm Super Saturdays is a respite program. They will provide 5 hours of respite care, a snack, a craft, fun, and medication administration, if needed. There will be up to two Behavior Specialists on site, as well as a Registered Nurse and lots of volunteer Buddies. Super Saturdays will be held at the Camp St. John Office. The day begins at 9am and ends at 2pm. The cost is $30. Camp I Am Special / 904-230-7447 / 235 Marywood Drive, St. Johns, FL 32259 / campiamspecial.com Sensory Friendly Night at Rebounderz February 5, 3pm to 5pm Rebounderz has partnered with Reaching Milestones to offer this special program on the first Monday of each month. During normal operating hours, the facility can be overwhelming for friends with special needs and sensory issues, so during this special time, the music will be turned off, and the distractions will be reduced (arcade games will be off). Games & snacks provided for Sensory Friendly Participants. Access is for 2 hours of time on the trampolines and/or ninja course. One parent/caretaker/ therapist is admitted for free with each sensory friendly participant. A parent/caretaker/therapist is permitted to assist child while on the jumper. Only one person is permitted to jump per square. Rebounderz Jump socks are required for anyone going out on the trampolines. Cost is $10. Tickets can be purchased in advance online. Rebounderz / 904-300-0070 / 14985 Old St Augustine Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32258 / www. rebounderz.com Adaptive Play at TNT Gymnastics Wednesdays, February 7, 14, 21, 28, 9am to 10am Join TNT Gymnastics for an open play time that will allow your child to explore new surroundings, enjoy soft landings, and get those wiggles and giggles out. This play time is designed for children with sensory needs or on the autism spectrum. Parent/Guardian is required to assist child as needed throughout the facility. Held weekly on Wednesdays from 9am to 10am. Cost is $5 cash or $6 card. TNT Gymnastics / 904-998-8681 / 2683 St. Johns Bluff Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www. tntgymfit.com Tools for Success Family Conference February 9, 8am to 3pm The 23rd Annual Tools for Success Family
Conference is an inter-agency collaboration that supports families of children with special needs in Jacksonville and surrounding areas. This conference helps families gain information on available resources and topics that affect their child’s education and well-being. Several break-out sessions will be presented on topics including: transition, behavior, mental health, autism, IEP’s, and government programs. The event is free to attend, but please register so they know how many to expect. University of North Florida, Adam W. Hebert University Center / 904-346-4601 / 12000 Alumni Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / www.toolsfamilyconference.com Special Needs Gaming Party at Microsoft February 10, 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, here. 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 Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.eventbrite.com Autism Birthday Wish Club Party February 11, 9:30am to 11am The second Sunday of every month is the Autism Birthday Wish Club Party for all kids celebrating their birthday in that month. Cost is $15 for ages 7 and up; $11 for ages 6 and under; $2/ jumper for Velocity socks. One parent is free per child. Activities include one hour of jump time, 30 minutes of food/birthday cake, social skills for kids, parent connections and more. There will be five new vendors/service providers at every event. Waivers are required to participate, and can be downloaded in advance online. This private party is open to all families and friends of children of all ages with Autism. Come meet local providers and socialize with parents and children. Food and cake included. This event is hosted by Making Strides for Autism Inc. and Northeast Florida Advocates for Autism and Related Disabilities Inc. Velocity Air Sports / 904-551-4035 / 7022 AC Skinner Parkway, Suite 200, Jacksonville, FL 32256 www.velocityairsports.com Buddy Breaks at Mandarin Presbyterian Church February 17, 1pm to 4pm This free respite program is designed to give caregivers of kids with special needs a break from their ongoing care-giving responsibilities. Each child and siblings are paired with an individual buddy friend for one-on-one attention as everyone has fun playing games, hearing and seeing great children’s stories, videos, music, and more, and the caregivers get a much needed break. To make a reservation, email buddybreak@mandarinpres.com . Mandarin Presbyterian Church / 904-680-9944 / 2401 Loretta Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / www. nathanielshope.org Visit Jax4Kids.com for more event listings.
Things to Do
TEENS
Motivation and the Power of Not Giving Up
H
ave you ever set a goal for yourself, like getting fit, making honor roll, or being picked for a team? Like lots of people, maybe you started out doing great, but then lost some of that drive and had trouble getting motivated again. You’re Not Alone! Everyone struggles with staying motivated and reaching their goals. Just look at how many people go on diets, lose weight, and then gain it back again! The reality is that refocusing, changing, or making a new start on something, no matter how small, is a big deal. But it’s not impossible. With the right approach, you can definitely do it. Getting Motivated So how do you stay motivated and on track with your goal? It all comes down to good planning, realistic expectations, and a stick-to-it attitude. Here’s what you need to do: First, know your goal. Start by writing down your major goal. Your major goal is the ultimate thing you’d like to see happen. For example, “I want to make honor roll,” or “I want to get fit enough to make the cross-country team,” or even, “I want to play in the Olympics” are all major goals because they’re the final thing the goal setter wants to see happen (obviously, some goals take longer and require more work than others). It’s OK to dream big. That’s how people accomplish stuff. You just have to remember that the bigger the goal, the more work it takes to get there.
run the entire distance of 26.2 miles tomorrow without any training, you’re unlikely to succeed. It takes the average person 4 months of training to run that far! But the bigger risk is that you’ll get so bummed out that you’ll give up your marathon dreams — and running — altogether. Part of staying motivated is being realistic about what you can achieve within the timeframe you’ve planned. Competing on the Olympic ski team is a workable goal if you are 15 and already a star skier. But if you’re 18 and only just taking your first lesson, time isn’t exactly on your side. Write it down. Put your specific goal in writing. Then write it down again. And again. Research shows that writing down a goal is part of the mental process of committing to it. Write your goal down every day to keep you focused and remind you how much you want it. Break it down. Making any change takes self-discipline. You need to pay constant attention so you don’t get sidetracked. One way to make this easier is to break a big goal into small steps. For example, let’s say you want to run a marathon. If it’s February and the marathon is in August, that’s a realistic timeframe to prepare. Start by planning to run 2 miles and work up gradually to the distance you need.
Then set specific daily tasks, like eating five servings of fruit and veggies and running a certain amount a day. Put these on a calendar or planner so you can check them off. Ask a coach to help you set doable mini-goals for additional mile amounts and for tasks to improve your performance, such as exercises to build strength and stamina so you’ll stay motivated to run Make it specific. It’s easier to plan for and master a specific goal than a vague one. Let’s say farther. your goal is to get fit. That’s pretty vague. Make it Reaching frequent, smaller goals is something to specific by defining what you want to achieve celebrate. It gives you the confidence, courage, (such as muscle tone and definition or endurand motivation to keep running — or doing ance), why you want to get fit, and by when. This whatever it is you’re aiming to do. So reward helps you make a plan to reach your goal. yourself! j Make it realistic. People often abandon their goals because their expectations are unreasonable. Maybe they expect to get ripped abs in kidshealth.org weeks rather than months, or to quit smoking easily after years of lighting up. Let’s say you want to run a marathon. If you try to
Teen Events
Youth Quake Live February 2, 8pm to 10pm The doors open at 7:30pm and the show begins at 8pm. Admission is free, but a donation is collected during the show to cover production fees. YouthQuake Live offers reserved seating for all events. For $3 per seat, youth groups & families have the opportunity to sit together & enjoy the event without worrying about the crowds. Reserved seating does not necessarily mean front row. Location of your seats is dependent on the event and the church layout. The Deadline to reserve seats is Tuesday at 1pm of event week. If you have any questions email info@youthquakelive.com. This month’s theme is An 80’s Themed True Love Waits – “Love Potion #9”. New Life Christian Fellowship / 2701 Hodges Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32224 / www.youthquakelive.com Teen Cooking: Waffles February 6, 6pm to 7:15pm Teens ages 12 and up will learn the basics of cleanliness, food prep, and food safety at this monthly program sponsored by the Friends of the Library. Registration is required for this free program. Register online or call 904-827-6900 to reserve your spot. A parent or guardian must be present at the time of the program to sign a waiver. Teens will customize their batter and decorate their waffles with a variety of toppings. St. Johns County Public Library - Southeast Branch / 904-827-6900 / 6670 US 1 South, St. Augustine, FL 32086 / www.sjcpls.org The Mary Awards Entries due by February 8 The Mary Awards honor the courage and willingness of young women (seniors in high school) who are serving God through their faith community and serving their neighbor. The finalists will be recognized and honored by the Jacksonville community and St. Vincent’s HealthCare. Every valid nominee will be listed in the evening’s program. Twelve (12) finalists will be chosen, three (3) in each of the categories of: academics, athletics, leadership and volunteerism/philanthropy. The criteria for nominating a candidate will be: Service to God and their faith community, Creativity and achievement in one of the four defined fields: academics, athletics, leadership and volunteerism/ philanthropy, and Selflessness and service to their neighbor. A committee representing the diversity of the region will choose the finalists in each category. St. Vincent’s HealthCare will receive the nominations by mail on or before February 8, 2018. St. Vincent’s HealthCare / www.jaxhealth.com Harry Potter Teen / Tween Hogwart’s Valentine Ball • February 10, 1pm to 2pm Join the Argyle Branch Teen Advisory Board as
they host a magical, Wizarding World Hogwart’s Valentine’s Day Ball for Teens and Tweens. Attendees can make a “Love potion” and find their “chosen” wand, as well as enjoy special drinks and Canapés. Free. Jacksonville Public Library - Argyle Branch / 904-573-3164 / 7973 Old Middleburg Road S, Jacksonville, FL 32222 / jpl.coj.net Tabletop Tuesday for High Schoolers February 13, 5:30pm to 7:30pm Teens in 9th - 12th grades are invited to have fun with friends and make new ones with Tabletop Gaming at the Library. Playing cards and games will be provided by the Library along with sodas and cookies. Feel free to bring your own tabletop games as well as your friends. These events just for high schoolers are an opportunity for High Schoolers to relax with their friends and take a break from technology. Free. St. Johns County Public Library, Ponte Vedra Beach Branch / 904-827-6950 / 101 Library Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www. sjcpls.org Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens Career Awareness Days • February 14, 2pm-4pm This is a special opportunity for middle, and high school students to learn about Zoo careers. Everyone knows the Zoo employs zookeepers and veterinarians, but they also have accountants, maintenance workers, retail and food service, horticulturalists, administrative positions and much more. Students will have the chance to meet Zoo staff from different areas of the Zoo who will recommend college programs, discuss how volunteering, interning, and related work experience can give you an edge over other students and explain what they do in their day-today job duties. The more you know about what positions exist at the Zoo, the easier it will be for you to plan your course of study and land that dream job. The Career Awareness Days are free of charge and open to the public. Please RSVP to help staff gauge attendance. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens / 904-757-4463 / 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218 / www.jacksonvillezoo.org PVHS College Fair February 21, 5pm to 7pm Meet representatives from dozens of Colleges and Universities, and learn about the enrollment process, what your favorite school values in an application or other important “get into college” information. The fair will be automated, and students can maximize their time at the fair by registering online beforehand. Choose Ponte Vedra High School for the location. The fair is free and open to the community. Ponte Vedra High School / 904-547-7350 / 460 Davis Park Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081 / www-pvhs.stjohns.k12.fl.us Visit Jax4Kids.com for more event listings.
FEBRUARY 2018 • Jax4Kids.com •
Page 11
Things to Do
NATURE
Bigger is Better in Birddom E veryone knows that doves are peaceful and jays are feisty… right? If you have ever watched birds interacting at your feeders you know that some species are likely to kick others off the feeding trays, and some species are likely to be kicked off. But are doves really peaceful and jays really feisty, or are we letting our imaginations influence what we see? The only way to find out is by collecting data. FeederWatchers, a group connected to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, rose to the challenge of collecting a totally new type of data—behavioral data—and opened the door to measuring species’ “personalities” on a continental scale.
FeederWatch participants have been gathering data on bird interactions. Blue Jay displaces Mourning Dove… check. Downy Woodpecker displaces Tufted Titmouse…. check. Chickadee displaces Hairy Woodpecker… no way! These conclusions may seem obvious, but it took over a thousand participants watching their feeders for tens of thousands of hours to collect enough data to verify these displacement patterns. Collecting the data is one thing, but making sense of it all is another. Thankfully, postdoctoral research associate Eliot Miller at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology had the skills to do it. After sifting through 7,685 observations, Eliot had some answers. How do feeder birds relate to one another on a hierarchy of dominance? To put it simply, bigger is better.
visiting species that can displace them; so not surprisingly, they don’t. Who was at the bottom of the list? Another surprise: the Eurasian Tree Sparrow. This species is similar but not identical to its congener the House Sparrow, and apparently it is a lot more peaceful than you might expect. Eurasian Tree Sparrows were introduced into the St. Louis, Missouri, area in 1870 and have become establish in Illinois and parts of Iowa and Missouri, but they have not expanded their range very far. Perhaps their relatively peaceful personality contributes to this lack of expansion compared to more aggressive House Sparrows. Placement on the dominance hierarchy is one thing, but which species are more or less aggressive than you would expect based on their body size alone? Eliot figured that out too. He mapped the dominance rank of each species on a phylogeny of all the species that interacted and statistically controlled for the mass of the birds. It turns out that doves, buntings, and grosbeaks are less dominant than we would expect based on their body size, whereas crows, jays, woodpeckers, and blackbirds are more dominant than we would expect based on their size. These findings mean our intuitions weren’t so far off: doves really are peaceful, and jays really are feisty.
WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE? You might think that there are no more questions to answer, but this is just the beginning. One of the next questions that Eliot will tackle involves digging into some of the specific, subtle relationships between certain species. For instance, based on the data received to date, some trios of species appear to co-exist in a rock-paper-scissors arrangement. For example, European SOME SURPRISES HIDDEN IN THE DATA Starlings are dominant to Red-headed WoodpeckEliot organized observations between 136 ers, Red-headed Woodpeckers are dominant to species at over 1,500 FeederWatch sites. He Red-bellied Woodpeckers, and Red-bellied ranked each species based on how often it would Woodpeckers are dominant to European Starlings. displace other species and how often it would get This rare non-linear hierarchy may help balance displaced. Then he arranged all those species in continental patterns of abundance. Each species their order of dominance, with the most dominant competes with another for nest cavities, but no species at the top of the list, and the least species is always the winner. Since Red-headed dominant at the bottom. What do you think was Woodpeckers are infrequently observed at the highest ranking species? Believe it or not, the feeders, we don’t have many observations for the Wild Turkey came out on top. This may seem like species, so we need to collect more data on its a surprise—turkeys seem peaceful enough—but interactions this coming season to verify these if you think about how often other birds displace patterns. j turkeys, it starts to make sense; never! Turkeys feederwatch.org are so large that there aren’t any other feeder-
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Nature Events
Family Fairy Gardening February 1, 8, 15, 22, 4pm to 5pm Families are invited for a month-long container gardening class with a fairy twist. Class will be held on Thursdays, February 1 through February 22. If you aren’t able to make it to all four classes, the series will be held again in March and April. Supplies are limited, so registration is required. Call 904-827-6900 or register your family online for this free class. St. Johns County Public Library - Southeast Branch / 904-827-6900 / 6670 US 1 South, St. Augustine, FL 32086 / www.sjcpls.org Top 10 Things to do to Make Your Yard Wildlife Friendly • February 3, 3pm to 4pm Florida has the third highest diversity of plants and animals in the country. But that diversity and productivity is being threatened by rampant development. This program will explore some of the techniques we as homeowners can employ to mitigate these disruptions by making our yards Florida Friendly for plants and animals. Home landscapes are a part of a larger natural system. This recognition will help guide us to make sound decisions when creating yards that provide ecosystem services but are also visibly appealing. Re-establishing habitat that lawns and nonnative plantings have replaced is your first step. The birds, bees and other wildlife you attract will be your reward. Jacksonville Public Library - Willowbranch Branch / 904-381-8490 / 2875 Park Street, Jacksonville, FL 32205 / www.jaxpubliclibrary.org Birds of a Feather Festival February 9-11 The 3-day birding and nature festival invites everyone to enjoy a weekend of birding, photography, workshops, nature art show, social events, and family activities in Peacee’s Kids Nest. Join Legendary Wildlife Photographer Moose Peterson for a free keynote event. Also enjoy: free beginner bird walks every 2 hours on Saturday and on Friday, come to the Green Lion for the Meet the Experts event. The event features classes, activities, and trips. Events occur at locations throughout the area, so be sure to check the address of your activity. There is no fee for the festival, however, each separate event may have its own fee. Palm Coast City Hall / 386-986-2323 / 160 Lake Avenue, Palm Coast, FL 32164 / www.palmcoastgov.com
pizza lunch will be provided for all participants after the event. Trash bags and tools will be provided. We are asking the participants to bring their own gardening gloves if possible. Participants should wear long sleeves and pants, as well as closed-toe shoes. Participants should bring a reusable water bottle, bug spray and sunscreen. Ravine Gardens State Park / 386-329-3721 / 1600 Twigg Street, Palatka, FL 32177 / www. floridastateparks.org Kids Tour of the Arboretum February 10, 10am to 11am This tour is designed to teach kids the relationship between people and the environment. The group will be taken around the arboretum and shown what plants can be used for purposes such as food, medicine, fibers, culture, and environmental factors. Kids will learn that plants are essential to life as we know it. This free tour is designed for kids roughly ages 7-12 and will begin the second Saturday of September. From there, it will be held every second Saturday of the month. It will begin at 10am at the picnic area and will continue until 11am. This program will not only get the kids outside and letting out some energy, but it will also teach them facts and skills they can take to their families and schools. Please email arboretum4kids@gmail.com as spots are limited. Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens / 1445 Millcoe Road, Jacksonville, FL 32225 / www.jacksonvillearboretum.org Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary Enrichment Day February 11, 1pm to 4pm Enjoy a guided tour of all the residents (Siberian tigers, lions, cougars, black leopards, a bobcat, coatimundis and foxes) at the sanctuary. Tours begin at 1pm and last about 45 minutes. Tours include a viewing of all the residents, as time allows, along with facts about the animals. Enrichments begin at 2:30pm. Strollers and cameras are welcome. Although reservations are not required, they highly suggest purchasing tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line. Purchase Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate. Catty Shack Ranch / 904-757-3603 / 1860 Starratt Road, Jacksonville, FL 32226 / www. cattyshack.org
Georgia Sea Turtle Center Science Saturdays February 17, 10am to 4pm The Georgia Sea Turtle Center is proud to offer Science Saturday events. These events allow families to learn together while exploring the center. Each event will covering a predefined sea turtle or general turtle related topic. Activities are included with the cost of general admission. This month will feature Marine Debris Science -- How Air Potato Rodeo and Park Clean-Up do humans affect the world around them? What February 10, 9am to 1pm can we do at home to help the environment? Are The Air Potato Rodeo and Park Clean-Up is an there ways we can help protect sea turtles even annual park beautification day and resource if we don’t live anywhere near the ocean? All of management project held to help control the invasive air potato vine (Dioscorea Bulbifera) that these questions will be answered as participants is found at Ravine Gardens. Participants will assist explore “Litter-ology” on Science Saturday. Learn all about what is considered Marine Debris and park staff and volunteers in the collection of the potato-like tubers in efforts to control the sprout- ways we can stop it from getting to the ocean. Test your knowledge on what is recyclable or not ing and spread of the vine. To keep this annual event going, volunteers will also be hunting down and how long it really takes for that soda can to decompose! Discover “upcycling and make a trash and other invasive exotic plants. All ages craft out of recyclable materials. are invited to participate. Scout troops and other service organizations are welcome. Prizes will be Georgia Sea Turtle Center / 912-635-4141 / 214 Stable Road, Jekyll Island, GA 31527 / gstc.jekylawarded for various categories, such as largest lisland.com potato and most golf balls found. T-shirts will be available to volunteers on a first come-first served basis during check-in on the day of the event. A
HEALTH & SAFETY
Help Fight Antibiotic Resistance Be A PAL-entine!
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ntibiotic resistance is one of the most urgent threats to the public’s health. Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria develop the ability to defeat the drugs designed to kill them. Each year in the United States, at least 2 million people get infected with antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and at least 23,000 people die as a result. Antibiotics save lives but any time they are used can result in side effects and lead to antibiotic resistance. About 30 percent of antibiotics, or 47 million prescriptions, are prescribed unnecessarily in doctors’ offices and emergency departments in the United States, which makes improving antibiotic prescribing and use a national priority.
Antibiotics do not work on viruses, such as colds and flu, or runny noses, even if the mucus is thick, yellow or green. Common side effects of antibiotics can include: rash, dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, and yeast infections. More serious side effects include Clostridium difficile infection, which causes diarrhea that can lead to severe colon damage and death. People can also have severe and life-threatening allergic reactions.
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ach year on February 14, friends and loved ones share cards, candy, gifts and flowers with their favorite Valentines. Holidays like Valentine’s Day can create heightened risk for exposure to food allergens, especially for children participating in classroom activities, and this added stress can • make it hard for families managing food allergies to enjoy the celebration. Every child should be able to experience the joy and tradition of Valentine’s Day but too often, children with food allergies are • left out of Valentine’s Day traditions because most candies contain allergens. FARE (Food Allergy Research Education) wants to help you and your child stay safe this Valentine’s Day with the resources and tips below.
Talk with your healthcare professional about the best treatment for your or your loved one’s illness. If you need antibiotics, take them exactly as prescribed. Talk with your healthcare professional We rely on antibiotics to treat serious infections if you have any questions about your antibiotics, or • Prepare: Talk to your child’s teacher and such as pneumonia, and life-threatening conditions if you develop any side effects especially diarrhea, classmates about the importance of having a including sepsis, the body’s extreme response to celebration that ensures the safety and since that could be a C. difficile infection, which an infection. Effective antibiotics are also needed inclusion of ALL students, including those with needs to be treated immediately. for people who are at high risk for developing infections. Some of those at high risk for infections Respiratory viruses usually go away in a week or include patients undergoing surgery, patients with two without treatment. To stay healthy and keep end-stage kidney disease, or patients receiving others healthy: Clean your hands; Cover coughs; cancer therapy. Stay home when sick; Get recommended vaccines, well-stocked first-aid kit, kept within easy for the flu, for example. j reach, is a necessity in every home. Having Antibiotics won’t help for some common bacterial supplies gathered ahead of time will help you infections including most cases of bronchitis, many cdc.gov handle an emergency at a moment’s notice. You sinus infections, and some ear infections. should keep one first-aid kit in your home and one in each car. Also be sure to bring a first-aid kit on family vacations.
food allergies. Events like Valentine’s Day are a great opportunity to teach adults and kids in the class about food labels and how to read them. Practice: Come up with phrases your child is comfortable using to politely decline food treats. Prevent: Make sure you and your child remain vigilant about reading labels and never take a chance with foods you’re not sure are safe. A child with food allergies may receive treats from classmates or others that he or she cannot have. Reemphasize to that child that these sweets shouldn’t be eaten unless a trusted adult has read the labels and said it’s ok. j
foodallergy.org
First-Aid Kit
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Bruxism (Teeth Grinding or Clenching)
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disposable instant cold packs calamine lotion alcohol wipes or ethyl alcohol thermometer tooth preservation kit plastic non-latex gloves (at least 2 pairs) flashlight and extra batteries mouthpiece for administering CPR (can be obtained from your local Red Cross) your list of emergency phone numbers blanket (stored nearby)
You can purchase a first aid kit at drugstores or a local Red Cross office, or make one of your own. If you decide to make one, choose containers for • your kits that are roomy, durable, easy to carry, and • hen you look in on your sleeping child, you causes for grinding. simple to open. Plastic tackle boxes or containers want to hear the sounds of sweet dreams: for storing art supplies are ideal, since they’re After you’ve stocked your first-aid kits: easy breathing and perhaps an occasional sigh. Stress — usually nervous tension or anger — is lightweight, have handles, and offer a lot of space. But some parents hear the harsher sounds of another cause. For instance, a child might worry • Read the entire first-aid manual so you’ll gnashing and grinding teeth, called bruxism, which about a test at school or a change in routine (a What You’ll Need understand how to use the contents of your is common in kids. new sibling or a new teacher). Even arguing with Include the following in each of your first-aid kits: kits. (If your kids are old enough to underparents and siblings can cause enough stress to • first-aid manual stand, review the manuals with them.) About Bruxism prompt teeth grinding or jaw clenching. • sterile gauze pads of different sizes • Store first-aid kits in places that are out of Bruxism is the medical term for the grinding of • adhesive tape children’s reach but easily accessible for teeth or the clenching of jaws. Many kids have it (2 Some kids who are hyperactive also have bruxism. • adhesive bandages in several sizes adults. to 3 out of every 10 will grind or clench, experts And sometimes kids with other medical conditions • elastic bandage • Check the kits regularly. Replace missing say), but most outgrow it. Bruxism often happens (such as cerebral palsy) or who take certain • a splint items or medicines that may have expired. during deep sleep phases or when kids are under medicines can develop bruxism. • antiseptic wipes • Check the flashlight batteries to make sure stress. • soap they work. Effects of Bruxism • antibiotic ointment • If you’re flying, be sure to pack the first-aid kit Causes of Bruxism Many cases of bruxism go undetected with no ill • antiseptic solution (like hydrogen peroxide) in your checked luggage. Many of the items Experts aren’t always sure why bruxism happens. effects, while others cause headaches or earaches. • hydrocortisone cream (1%) won’t be permitted in your carry-on bags. In some cases, kids may grind because the top Usually, though, it’s more bothersome to other • acetaminophen and ibuprofen and bottom teeth aren’t aligned properly. Others do family members because of the grinding sound. • extra prescription medications (if the family is Reviewed by: Steven Dowshen, MD j it as a response to pain, such as from an earache j going on vacation) or teething. Kids might grind their teeth as a way to kidshealth.org • tweezers ease the pain, just as they might rub a sore kidshealth.org • sharp scissors muscle. Many kids outgrow these fairly common • safety pins
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FEBRUARY 2018 • Jax4Kids.com •
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HEALTH & SAFETY
It’s Not Too Late To Get A Flu Shot
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aven’t had your flu shot yet? It’s not too late. And there are still good reasons to get one.
Flu — more formally known as influenza — is a serious viral disease that can lead to hospitalization and even death. Although every flu season is different, flu has resulted in anywhere from 9.2 million to 35.6 million illnesses; 140,000 to 710,000 hospitalizations; and 12,000 to 56,000 deaths every year since 2010, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Flu viruses are spread through tiny droplets by people infected with flu who cough, sneeze, or talk. Flu also is spread by touching a surface or object that has flu viruses on it. Although influenza viruses circulate year-round, flu activity peaks between December and February most years, but activity can last as late as May in the U.S. A Flu Vaccine Can Help An annual seasonal flu vaccine is the best way to reduce your risk of getting sick and spreading it to others. The vaccine typically is redesigned each year to contain flu virus strains expected to be prevalent during the upcoming flu season. The strains have been inactivated so that they don’t cause you to get sick with flu, but will trigger your immune system to produce antibodies that can protect against influenza disease. When more people get vaccinated, less flu can spread through a community. It can take about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) plays a key role in ensuring that safe and effective vaccines are available every flu season. In fact, the task of producing a new vaccine for the next flu season starts well before the current season ends. For the FDA, it’s a year-round initiative. Why We Need New Flu Vaccines Every Year According to the FDA’s Office of Vaccines Research and Review, there are several reasons new flu vaccines must be made each year. Flu viruses can change from year to year because of different subtypes and strains that circulate each year. A vaccine is needed that includes virus strains that most closely match those in circulation, and the protection provided by the previous year’s vaccine will diminish over time.
Annual vaccination is the best way to prevent influenza among people ages 6 months and older. You also can reduce the spread of the flu and reduce its effects by taking such practical measures as washing your hands, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when you’re sick. Although antiviral drugs are not a substitute for vaccines, they can help to treat influenza. There are several FDA-approved antiviral drug products recommended by CDC for use against recently circulating influenza viruses. Identifying Flu Virus Strains Each February, before that year’s flu season ends, the FDA, the World health organization, the CDC, and other public health experts collaborate on collecting and reviewing data from around the world to identify the flu viruses likely to cause the most illnesses during the next flu season. Based on that information and the recommendations of an FDA advisory committee, the agency selects the virus strains for FDA-licensed manufacturers to include in their vaccines for use. The closer the match between the virus strains chosen for the vaccine and what strains are circulating causing disease during the next flu season, the better the protection. To ensure that vaccines are safe, effective, and of high quality, the FDA prepares and provides reagents (materials to standardize vaccines) that vaccine manufacturers need to make their vaccine and to verify its identity and strength. The FDA also inspects the manufacturing facilities regularly and evaluates each manufacturer’s vaccine annually. Flu Vaccines Are Safe The FDA’s oversight doesn’t end there. After manufacturers have distributed their vaccines for use by the public, the FDA, working with CDC scientists, routinely evaluates reports to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System of health problems that may be associated with a vaccine. And the FDA and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services conduct annual surveillance for Guillain-Barre syndrome, a rare neurological condition associated with the 1976 flu vaccine.
Other avenues exist to monitor vaccine safety. The FDA conducts influenza and other vaccine surveillance within the Sentinel Post Licensure Rapid Immunization Safety Monitoring system. And the CDC maintains the Vaccine Safety Data Link, Who’s Most at Risk of Getting the Flu which provides nearly real-time monitoring of Typically, children and older people are most at risk people who are vaccinated, in collaboration with nine integrated health care organizations. j for influenza, but occasionally a flu virus will circulate that disproportionately affects young and middle-age adults.
fda.gov
Influenza seasons and severity are unpredictable.
Page 14 • Jax4Kids.com • February 2018
HEALTH & SAFETY
Diabetes Rates Increasing in American Youth
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ntibiotic resistance is one of the most urgent threats to the public’s health. Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria develop the ability to defeat the drugs designed to kill them. Each year in the United States, at least 2 million people get infected with antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and at least 23,000 people die as a result. In the United States, 29.1 million people are living with diagnosed or undiagnosed diabetes, and about 208,000 people younger than 20 years are living with diagnosed diabetes. This study is the first ever to estimate trends in new diagnosed cases of type 1 and type 2 diabetes in youth (those under the age of 20), from the five major racial/ethnic groups in the U.S.: non-Hispanic whites, non-Hispanic blacks, Hispanics, Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders, and Native Americans.
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sharply in Native Americans (8.9 percent), Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders (8.5 percent) and non-Hispanic blacks (6.3 percent). Among youth ages 10-19, the rate of new diagnosed cases of type 2 diabetes increased 3.1 percent among Hispanics. The smallest increase was seen in whites (0.6 percent). The rate of new diagnosed cases of type 2 diabetes rose much more sharply in females (6.2 percent) than in males (3.7 percent) ages 10-19.
“These findings lead to many more questions,” said Barbara Linder, M.D., Ph.D., senior advisor for childhood diabetes research at NIH’s National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. “The differences among racial and ethnic groups and between genders raise many questions. We need to understand why the increase in rates of The SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth study, funded by diabetes development varies so greatly and is so the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concentrated in specific racial and ethnic groups.” (CDC) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Type 1 diabetes, the most common form of diabetes found that from 2002 to 2012, incidence, or the rate in young people, is a condition in which the body of new diagnosed cases of type 1 diabetes in youth fails to make insulin. Causes of type 1 diabetes are increased by about 1.8 percent each year. During still unknown. However, disease development is the same period, the rate of new diagnosed cases of suspected to follow exposure of genetically type 2 diabetes increased even more quickly, at 4.8 predisposed people to an “environmental trigger,” percent. The study included 11,244 youth ages stimulating an immune attack against the insulin0-19 with type 1 diabetes and 2,846 youth ages producing beta cells of the pancreas. 10-19 with type 2. In type 2 diabetes, the body does not make or use “Because of the early age of onset and longer insulin well. In the past, type 2 diabetes was diabetes duration, youth are at risk for developing extremely rare in youth, but it has become more diabetes related complications at a younger age. common in recent years. This profoundly lessens their quality of life, shortens their life expectancy, and increases health care Several NIH-funded studies are directly examining costs,” said Giuseppina Imperatore, M.D., Ph.D., how to delay, prevent, and treat diabetes: epidemiologist in CDC’s Division of Diabetes Type 1 Diabetes TrialNet screens thousands of Translation, National Center for Chronic Disease relatives of people with type 1 diabetes annually and Prevention and Health Promotion. conducts prevention studies with those at highest risk for the disease. Results of this study reflect the nation’s first and only ongoing assessment of trends in type 1 and The Environmental Determinants of Diabetes in the type 2 diabetes among youth and help identify how Young (TEDDY) study seeks to uncover factors that the epidemic is changing over time in Americans may increase development of type 1 diabetes. under the age of 20 years. For youth with type 2 diabetes, the ongoing Key findings from the report: Treatment Options for Type 2 Diabetes in Adoles• Across all racial/ethnic groups, the rate of new cents and Youth(Today) study is examining methods diagnosed cases of type 1 diabetes increased to treat the disease and prevent complications. more annually from 2003-2012 in males (2.2 percent) than in females (1.4 percent) ages Additionally, CDC’s Next-D study aims to understand 0-19. how population-targeted policies affect preventive • Among youth ages 0-19, the rate of new behaviors and diabetes outcomes and answer diagnosed cases of type 1 diabetes increased questions about quantity and quality of care used, most sharply in Hispanic youth, a 4.2 percent costs, and unintended consequences. annual increase. In non-Hispanic blacks, the rate of new diagnosed cases of type 1 diabetes For more information on diabetes, including tips on increased by 2.2 percent and in non-Hispanic diabetes management and type 2 diabetes whites by 1.2 percent per year. prevention, visit cdc.gov/diabetes. j • Among youth ages 10-19, the rate of new diagnosed cases of type 2 diabetes rose most Cdc.gov
Things to Do Health & Safety
Sixth Annual Character Counts! 6 Pillars 6K and 3K Run/Walk February 3, 9am Sixth Annual Character Counts! in St. Johns County. There will be a 6K distance and a 3K. The course begins and ends at Palencia Elementary School. The event is open to all ages. Entry fees for the 3K range from $20 to $30; entry fees for the 6K are $25 to $35. Awards will be given for males and females in the 3K and 6K for ages 1-9, 10-14, 15-19, and adult categories. The event is a member of the Run St. Augustine Race Series. Palencia Elementary School / 904-547-7504 / 355 Palencia Village Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32095 / racesmith.com YMCA Lifestyle Cooking Series February 8, 2pm - St. Augustine YMCA February 12, 1pm – Williams YMCA February 15, 12:30pm - Barco-Newton YMCA February 28, 11:30am - Baptist North YMCA AETNA is partnering with Publix Aprons Cooking School and Chuy’s Tex-Mex Restaurant to present an educational series on healthy cooking. Within the one hour session, chefs will demonstrate delicious recipes that incorporate healthy food options that accommodate every lifestyle. Each month, learn a new topic that will help improve your eating habits or build on existing healthy habits. This event is free to the community and samples will be provided. RSVP at the Welcome Center. First Coast YMCA / 904-265-1770 / firstcoastymca.org St. Augustine YMCA, 500 Pope Rd, St. Augustine, FL 32080 Williams YMCA, 10415 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32257 Barco-Newton YMCA, 2075 Town Center Boulevard Fleming Island, FL 32003 Baptist North YMCA, 11250 Baptist Health Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32218 Donna Marathon Weekend February 9-11 The 26.2 with Donna is a private non-profit organization in Northeast Florida producing the only marathon in the U.S. dedicated to breast cancer research and care. Net proceeds of all 26.2 with Donna Official Events go to breast cancer research, care and awareness. Donna Marathon Weekend welcomes thousands of runners and supporters from all over the world. The weekend kicks off with a Social Shakeout Run on Friday, February 9 at Southern Grounds. This 3 Mile Run/Walk with Donna Deegan, and Donna Special Guests is free and open to all. At 12noon on Friday, the Donna Expo kicks off at the Prime F. Osborn Convention Center. The expo is free and open to the public, with free parking. To commemorate 10 Years Closer to the Finish, Donna introduces the Anniversary Donna 10K. Other events include a 5K race, a family fun run, 26.2 marathon, and an ultramarathon. Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center / 904355-PINK / 1000 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / breastcancermarathon.com
Community CPR/AED February 13, 6pm to 9pm This course offers certification in Community CPR and includes instruction and certification in Adult, Child & Infant CPR. Includes AED and Choking. Certification is through ASHI (American Safety & Health Institute.) Upon registering, you will get an email confirmation which will serve as your reminder of the date, time, location and what to bring with you. Cost is $40. Babies R Us (Orange Park Location) / 904-4346032 / 6001 Argyle Forest Blvd, Orange Park, FL 32244 / www.safetyfirstjax.com Smart Cookie 5K February 17, 8am to 12noon The Smart Cookie 5K and Fun Run will take place at Jacksonville University. Entry for the 5K ranges from $30 to $40, and entry for the fun run ranges from $10 to $15. The Smart Cookie 5K has partnered with the Kilwins Ice Cream Run and the Cupcake Run in a 3-race series where over $2000 in cash and prizes will be awarded. To participate in the series, be sure to select the series option during registration. All three races benefit deserving charities in Northeast Florida: Girl Scouts of Gateway Council, Clarke Schools for Hearing and Speech, and Girls on the Run. Add an additional $5, if registering to be part of the Sweet 3 Race Series. Jacksonville University / 2800 University Blvd N, Jacksonville, FL 32211 / www.smartcookie5k. com Ortega River Run February 24, 8am to 11am For the 40 years, St. Mark’s Episcopal Day School has held the Ortega River Run. A Grand Prix sanctioned event, this is a great event for the whole family. Proceeds benefit the financial aid and scholarship program at the school. Both races start and finish at St. Mark’s Episcopal Day School. There will be a 1 mile fun run at 8am, followed by a 5 mile run/walk at 8:30am. Strollers are welcome, and will start at the back of the race. There will be a family street fair at start/finish with food, activities, give-aways, special guests, and a Fun & Fit Zone with bounce house and sport activities for kids. The cost for the 1 mile is $20; fees for the 5 mile run/walk range from $30 to $40. St. Mark’s Episcopal Day School / 904-3882632 / 4114 Oxford Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32210 / www.stmarksdayschool.org Superhero 5K Walk/Run, Destiny Kids Dash and Super Loop • February 25, 8:30am The Superhero walk/run will feature a chip timed 5K. The Destiny Dash is for walking-VPK age kids and Super Loop is K-3rd Grade. Fees for the 5K range from $30 to $35 and $15 for students. Cost to participate in the Destiny Dash or Super Loop races is $10. Proceeds from this event will benefit Palm Coast Community Child Center - a 501 (c)(3) organization. Central Park at the Palm Coast Town Center / 386-986-1876 / 975 Central Avenue, Palm Coast, FL 32164 / racesmith.com
Visit Jax4Kids.com’s Health Events online at www.jax4kids.com
FEBRUARY 2018 • Jax4Kids.com •
Page 15
HEALTH & SAFETY
How Sweet It Is!
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ebruary is typically thought of as the month for sweethearts as we show that special someone how much they mean to us on Valentine’s Day. But whether it’s a family member or a friend, everyone deserves to know how much they are loved this month (and always). Typically people give candy to each other on Valentine’s Day, but Mother Nature gives us a way to satisfy our sweet tooth as well. Instead of chocolate or candy for the ones you love, give them a healthier alternative. Nature gives us the sweet gift of fruit to share. Treat your family to fruits in a variety of colors and textures. Let your child pick what color fruit he/she wants in their lunchbox, and change the colors on different days if possible. Let them have fun with trying new fruits. We hear a lot about not drinking juice beverages because of all the added sugars they contain. This would include things like cranberry juice cocktail, Sunny Delight, or Hi-C fruit punch. But limited amounts of 100% fruit juices have a place in our kids’ diets along with whole fruits. MyPlate, the nutrition guide published by the United States Department of Agriculture, is a wonderful guideline for healthy eating and healthy meal planning, especially for older children, teens and adults. MyPlate recommends filling half of your plate with fruits and vegetables. But for children, the serving sizes may be much smaller than what will fill half a plate.
For children 6-12 years of age one serving of fruit: • 1 cup 100% fruit juice • 1 apple • 1 cup sliced banana • 1 cup applesauce • 32 seedless grapes • 1 cup diced melon or melon balls • 1 large orange • 1 large peach/1 medium pear • 1 cup pineapple chunks • 1 cup diced watermelon So what doesn’t count as a fruit serving? • Fruit strips • Gummy fruit snacks • Fruit roll ups • Fruit flavoring If a product says that is counts as a fruit serving, see where fruit is listed on the food label. If it is not listed as the first ingredient, and it is listed further down on the list, it does not count towards a fruit serving. Try making this yummy parfait for your children this month and show them how much they mean to you! Fruit and Yogurt Parfait
Smartphone Addiction and Children
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ecently, two major Apple investors who control approximately $2 billion worth of Apple shares, urged the maker of the iPhone and iPad to address smartphone addiction among children after various studies highlighted the negative affects heavy smartphone usage has on the mental and physical health of children. In an open letter, the investors wrote, “It would defy common sense to argue this level of usage, by children whose brains are still developing, is not having at least some impact, or that the maker of such a powerful product has no role to play in helping parents to ensure it is being used optimally,”. The letter goes on to say “It is also no secret that social media sites and applications for which the iPhone and iPad are a primary gateway are usually designed to be as addictive and time-consuming as possible, as many of their original creators have publicly acknowledged,”
in the way of parents talking and interacting with their kids -- which are key to helping kids learn language and communication. Background TV can also expose kids to age-inappropriate content. Seek out other forms of entertainment that you can listen to with your kid, such as music, kids’ podcasts, and audiobooks.
Make time for enjoying media with your kids, especially reading. Reading to your kid is one of the best things you can do -- period. It’s great for Common Sense Media offers these five tips for bonding, but it also sets the stage for learning. While parents of young kids to guide them to healthy it’s nice to have a little library of books at home, you media habits. can read whatever’s available and it’ll be good for So what does a serving of fruit look like for kids? them. Product labels, signs, packaging copy -- anyChoose the good stuff (and not too much!). When For children 1-6 years of age one serving of fruit: thing with words is fine. If you’re raising your kid in your kids ask to see, play, or download something, • ½ cup 100% fruit juice Directions: a place where you don’t completely know the don’t just take their word for it -check up on it. A • ½ apple Place a few sliced strawberries at the bottom of a language, feel free to read books or articles to them • ½ medium banana short glass. Layer next with yogurt and continue to lot of the age recommendations on media products in your native tongue. Or just make up stories -- it’s • 1 snack container of applesauce, pineapple or alternate layers of fruit, yogurt and granola until the are the creators’ best guess and aren’t necessarily a match for your child’s age and developmental stage. the rhythm, sounds, and communication that are mixed fruit (4 ounces) glass is full. Finish with a top layer of granola and important for kids to hear. Read product reviews from independent sources • ½ cup pears/peaches nuts (if desired for added protein and crunch). (like Common Sense Media). Say no if you’re not • 16 seedless grapes Practice what you preach. Remember, your kids are comfortable with it. And when you approve • ½ cup whole or sliced strawberries Enjoy! j watching you. When your kids are little, create a something, help your kids enjoy it along with their • ¼ cup dried fruit or 1 small box raisins family media plan to help you balance media and other activities. tech (theirs and yours) with all of the other things Ingredients: • Vanilla or Strawberry Greek Yogurt • Sliced strawberries • Sliced bananas or fresh blueberries • Whole granola • Chopped walnuts or sliced pecans (optional)
Don’t use screens right before bed, and keep them out of the bedroom overnight. Kids really need their sleep. Screens in the bedroom -- especially in the hour before bedtime -- interfere with the entire process of winding down, preparing for rest, and waking up refreshed and ready to tackle the day. If you’re unable to make the bedroom a screen-free zone (which is optimal but not always possible), keep TVs off for at least an hour before bedtime and set tablets or phones to night mode, turn off any notifications, and/or consider using Guided Access or another device setting to keep phones/tablets locked on a music or an alarm clock app. Turn off the TV if no one is watching it. A lot of parents of young kids keep the TV on for company. But so-called background TV has been shown to get
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that are important to you. This isn’t just for them; it’s for you, too. Schedule in downtime, chores, homework, outdoor fun, reading, meals, etc. And then figure out how much extra is available for TV shows, games, apps and other media activities. Don’t worry about counting up daily screen time minutes -- just aim for a balance throughout the week. Try to carve out times and locations that are “screen-free zones.” Hold yourself to them. Kids learn more from what we do than what we say, so make sure you’re role-modeling the right habits. Visit commonsensemedia.org for helpful resources including reviews and recommended age-appropriate media. j
HEALTH & SAFETY
Sipping, Snacking, and Tooth Decay
Keep Your Children Safe from Fire and Burns
any parents across the country will issue a common refrain at dinnertime tonight: -You’d better eat that--it’s good for you! There’s another old favorite in the parental arsenal of dietary admonitions: - Don’t eat that—it’ll rot your teeth! Now more than ever, kids are faced with a bewildering array of food choices—from fresh produce to sugar-laden processed convenience meals and snack foods. What children eat and when they eat may affect not only their general health but also their oral health.
Almost all foods have some type of sugar that cannot and should not be eliminated from our diets. Many of these foods contain important nutrients and add enjoyment to eating. But there is a risk for tooth decay from a diet high in sugars and starches. Starches can be found in everything from bread to pretzels to salad dressing, so read labels and plan carefully for a balanced, nutritious diet for you and your kids.
Americans are consuming foods and drinks high in sugar and starches more often and in larger portions than ever before. It’s clear that – junk foods and drinks gradually have replaced nutritious beverages and foods for many people. For example, the average teenage boy in the U.S. consumes 81 gallons of soft drinks each year! Alarmingly, a steady diet of sugary foods and drinks can ruin teeth, especially among those who snack throughout the day. Common activities may contribute to the tendency toward tooth decay. These include – grazing habitually on foods with minimal nutritional value, and frequently sipping on sugary drinks.
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inter is fire season, the time of year too many house fires occur, caused by space heaters and other heat sources like cooking equipment. Working smoke alarms on each level of your home and outside all the bedrooms are lifesaving devices every family should be sure to have in place because they cut the risk of dying in a house fire in half. Since most fatal fires occur at night, practicing a fire drill at night so children will know what to do if the smoke alarm goes off, is also wise. Even young children can participate, just like they do at preschool. House fires can happen to anyone, but this type of preparation can help your family escape one unharmed.
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Reduce your children’s risk for tooth decay:
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Sugary foods and drinks should be consumed with meals. Saliva production increases during meals and helps neutralize acid and rinse food particles from the mouth. Limit between-meal snacks. If kids crave a snack, offer them nutritious foods. If your kids chew gum, make it sugarless – Chewing sugarless gum after eating can increase saliva flow and help wash out food and decay-producing saliva. Monitor beverage consumption – Children should make healthy beverage choices such as water and low-fat milk. Help your children develop good brushing and flossing habits. Schedule regular dental visits. j
When sugar is consumed over and over again in large, often hidden amounts, the harmful effect on • teeth can be dramatic. Sugar on teeth provides food ada.org for bacteria, which produce acid. The acid in turn can eat away at the enamel on teeth.
Safer Transactions
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ith the popularity of online marketplaces comes the challenge of “Where can I safely meet a buyer or seller for this transaction?” The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, with its Police Memorial Building in downtown Jacksonville and six substations conveniently located throughout the city, provides multiple locations where you can conduct an exchange of legal merchandise. Citizens are welcome to utilize any of the seven manned locations, either in the lobby or parking lot. All of the locations listed below are open for business from 8am – 5pm, Monday through Friday with the exception of the Police Memorial Building’s Forsyth Street entrance which is open all day, everyday. The locations are: Zone 1 Substation - Located at: Gateway Town Center, 5258-13 Norwood Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32208 Zone 2 Substation - Located at: Regency Square
Mall, 9501 Arlington Expressway, Jacksonville, FL 32225 Zone 3 Substation - Located off of Prominence Parkway, 8875 Liberty Ridge Drive, Suite 110, Jacksonville, FL 32256 Zone 4 Substation - Located at: Cedar Hills Shopping Center, 3726 Blanding Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32210 Zone 5 Substation - Located at: Edward Waters College, 1767 Kings Road, Jacksonville, FL 32209
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Teach kids to: • • • • •
S top, drop, and roll if their clothes or hair catch on fire. Feel a closed door before opening it. If it’s hot or you see smoke, don’t open it. Know two ways to escape from each room. Get out of the house quickly and meet your family at a pre-determined spot. Then call 9-1-1 if there is a fire.
In Jacksonville, if your one or two-family residence needs smoke alarms and/or batteries, you may qualify for two free smoke alarms, installed by Jacksonville Fire Rescue Department. Call 904-202-CITY for information about the Mayor’s Home Fire Safety Program, supported by Wolfson Children’s Hospital and Firehouse Subs. According to the American Burn Association, over 126,000 children were treated in emergency rooms for fire and burn injuries in 2013, but most of the injuries in younger children were from scalds from hot liquids and steam, even just the water that comes out of the tap. Scalding burns in children under five happen most often in the bathroom and are more severe because they can cover a larger portion of the body than other types of scald burns. Keep in mind that a young child’s skin is thinner and more susceptible to damage from a burn, but there are simple precautions to prevent this type of injury.
Zone 6 Substation - Located at: Highland Square Shopping Center, 936 Dunn Avenue, Jacksonville, FL During National Burn Awareness Week, February 32218 4-8, Safe Kids Northeast Florida and it’s lead organization THE PLAYERS Center for Child Health at The next time you need a place to conduct that Wolfson Children’s Hospital offer these top tips to transaction, think “Safer Transaction” and meet parents and caregivers: where JSO meets. j jaxsheriff.org
1. Adjust your water heater. With everything going on, we know the water heater is the last thing on your mind. But a small adjustment can
give you one less thing to worry about. To prevent accidental scalding, set your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit or the manufacturer’s recommended setting. 2. Don’t carry or hold a child while cooking. Instead, place children in a high chair a safe distance away from any hot liquids, hot surface, or other hazards in the kitchen. 3. Use the back burners. Kids love to reach, so to prevent hot food or liquid spills in the kitchen, simply use the back burner of your stove and turn pot handles away from the stove edge. Keep hot foods away from the edge of your counters. 4. Place matches, gasoline and lighters in a safe place, out of children’s reach. Avoid novelty lighters or lighters that look like toys. 5. Create a “no kid zone” in the kitchen around stoves, ovens and hot items. 6. Keep hot drinks away from the edge of tables and counters. As with any preventable injury that can hurt a child, being aware of the possible dangers at home from fire and burns, childproofing, and teaching your children can make parenting easier and put your mind at ease. Setting up and sticking to family safety routines is easy and well worth the effort involved! National Burn Awareness Week is an annual observance the first full week in February led by the American Burn Association. To learn more, visit http://www.ameriburn.org. For more fire/burn safety tips, visit wolfsonchildrens. org/safekids. . j
FEBRUARY 2018 • Jax4Kids.com •
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HEALTH & SAFETY
Emotional Wellness
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motional wellness, social skills, and life skills are important tools for children to develop. Learning what a positive relationship is — including supportive and nurturing interactions with parents, caregivers, teachers, and peers — starts at infancy. How to integrate feelings and deal with difficult situations will form an essential part of your child’s overall emotional development. Self-control is another vital skill for your child to learn, in order to appropriately express, communicate, and manage emotions and behaviors. Risks of Underdeveloped Social and Life Skills When kids don’t get the support they need for their emotional health and to develop the proper social and life skills, they’re at increased risk for a variety of troubling outcomes: • behavioral issues such as aggression, depression, and anxiety • poor self-image • decreased confidence levels • bullying • poor academic and athletic performance • self-destructive behavior • alcohol, cigarette, and/or marijuana use in teen years and early adulthood Developing Social Skills in Kids In order to relate to others, your child needs to learn social skills and competencies such as friendliness, how to act during group activities, respect for property, and obedience of rules. The top 10 social skills for your child to learn are: 1. listen to others 2. follow the steps 3. follow the rules 4. ignore distractions 5. ask for help 6. take turns when you talk 7. get along with others 8. stay calm with others
9. be responsible for your behavior 10. do nice things for others (Source: Lewis/Newcomber - Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports)
Tide Pod Challenge: A Dangerous Dare Taking Social Media By Storm
Be a Good Example Your behaviors and actions can go a long way to instill these skills in your children. Caregiver Behavior • Spending quality time with your children; giving your attention • Talking to your children • Showing affection to • your children • Using descriptive praise • Providing engaging activities • Setting a good example • Using incidental teaching • Using ask, say, do • Using Behavior Charts Social Skills Application • Opportunities for practicing conversation skills • Promote vocabulary, conversation skills, • social skills • Opportunities to become comfortable with affection • Encouraging appropriate social behaviors, compliance • Encouraging independent play, promoting appropriate behavior when in the community, appropriate social behaviors • Showing children appropriate behaviors • Promoting language, problem solving, independence • Teaching self care, new skills • Encouraging appropriate behaviors, absence of problem behaviors, positive social behaviorsj nemours.org
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oison centers have received many calls in the last few years about young children accidently ingesting laundry pods. They are very colorful and young children mistake them for candy or something else good to eat. Last year the nation’s poison centers fielded over 10,500 calls about children 5 years old or younger getting into these. According to the American Association of Poison Control Centers, there have been two fatalities among children 5 and younger since 2012. Increased media attention and product advertising and messaging has made parents acutely aware of the potential danger to their children. It has been recommended that households with children under the age of 6 should not purchase the laundry pods. More recently, parents are learning that their teens also need to be warned about this potential danger. Teens are putting laundry pods in their mouths as part of an emerging online dare. It started as a joke. It is now being done in an effort to get more “likes” or “hits” on their social media platform. In the videos the teens can be seen biting into a detergent pod then spitting right away. In some cases they have vomited or displayed trouble breathing. This is not a joke and in no way is it funny. These laundry pods are a highly concentrated form of detergent with a moisture sensitive membrane that dissolves easily when they bite into them. The detergent then causes irritation and pain to the mouth and throat, which may be followed by vomiting and/or trouble breathing. Persons may even become very drowsy after this ingestion. It has resulted in an increase in the number of calls to the
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nation’s poison control centers. A few teens have ended up in the emergency room with significant symptoms. Teens with a history of asthma are at increased risk for more serious problems. Recently YouTube and Facebook decided to pull the videos of the challenge from their sites. They are hoping to stop this disturbing trend before someone is seriously injured. These laundry pods can also cause serious injuries to the eyes. This usually happens when a child or a teen rubs their eyes after getting the product on their hands. If someone has ingested a laundry pod call the poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. The service is open 24 hours a day,7 days a week. It is a free hotline number that is staffed by nurses, pharmacists and physicians that are specially trained to handle poisoning emergencies. They will often times save you from an unnecessary trip to the hospital. Remember to call 911 first if the person if having trouble waking up, is having trouble breathing or is having seizures. j Debi Forrest, RN, CSPI Education Coordinator Florida/USVI Poison Information Center – Jacksonville Twitter: @FloridaPoison Facebook: facebook.com/FloridasPCC or search “Florida’s Poison Control Centers” Website: www.floridapoisoncontrol.org
HEALTH & SAFETY
Dramatic Increase in ADHD Prescriptions - Filled by Reproductive-age Women
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he number of privately insured U.S. women ages 15-44 years who filled a prescription for a medicine to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) increased 344 percent between 2003 and 2015, according to a report in CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR). Even higher increases were reported for women in their late 20s and early 30s. For those ages 25-29 years, the number of women who filled a prescription for an ADHD medicine increased by 700 percent. The second largest increase was among women ages 30-34: a 560 percent increase. Little information is available about the safety of taking ADHD medicine during pregnancy. More research is needed so women with ADHD and their health care providers can weigh the risks and benefits of ADHD treatment options during pregnancy. “Half of all pregnancies in the United States are unplanned, and women may be taking prescription medicine early in pregnancy before they know they are pregnant,” said Coleen Boyle, Ph.D., M.S.Hyg., director, CDC’s National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities. “Early pregnancy is a critical time for the developing baby. We need to better understand the safest ways to treat ADHD before and during pregnancy.”
filled a prescription for an ADHD medicine from 2003 (from 0.9 percent of women to 4 percent of women). •
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May Be Time For a New Pair of Shades
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t seems sunglasses’ UV protection may deteriorate over time, and current industry tests are not sufficient for determining how long it’s safe to wear them, according to a study from Brazil.
Most Brazilians wear the same pair every day for about two years, the study notes, yet it has not been proven that lenses maintain the same level of ADHD medicine prescriptions increased for all included age groups (subgroups analyzed protection after that type of exposure to ultraviolet radiation. The findings may have implications for by age in 5-year increments) and in all U.S. the sunglass industry in the United States, as well. geographic regions. There is no current recommendation for when, The biggest increase was among women exactly, people should retire their old pairs—and ages 25-29 years, where the number of protecting eyes from the sun is important anywhere women who filled a prescription for an ADHD in the world, as UV exposure can lead to cataracts, medicine increased by 700 percent between retina damage, and other long-term problems and 2003 and 2015. The second biggest increase vision loss.
was among women ages 30-34 (560 percent increase).
• In 2015, the most commonly filled ADHD medicines among this group of women were mixed amphetamine salts (Adderall), lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) and methylphenidate (Ritalin). “If a woman is pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant, she should talk to her healthcare provider about all medicines she is taking. Pregnant women should also talk to their doctor before stopping or starting any medicine,” Dr. Boyle said. Medication Use in Pregnancy
CDC’s National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities is working to improve the Use of ADHD Medications in Women of health of women and babies through its Treating Reproductive Age for Two: Safer Medication Use in Pregnancy For each year from 2003 through 2015, research- initiative. Treating for Two works to understand trends in medicine use among pregnant women ers examined private insurance claims for 2.3 and women of reproductive age, and to offer million to 6.8 million women ages 15-44 (the women and healthcare providers information median sample size was 4.6 million women per about the safety or risk of using specific mediyear) to see how many women filled ADHD cines during pregnancy. This information helps medicine prescriptions from outpatient pharmawomen and their doctors make informed cies. All of the women had private health decisions about treating health conditions during insurance with prescription drug coverage. pregnancy. j The main findings among these privately insured woman of reproductive age: cdc.gov • From 2003 to 2015 there was a 344 percent increase in women ages 15-44 years who
The report, published in Biomedical Engineering OnLine, suggests that in addition to UV protection, lenses’ shatterproof qualities may degrade as well.
same ones regularly for a couple of years.” If you’re really curious about whether it’s still safe to wear a pair of old favorites, adds Dr. Pettey, many eyeglass retailers can test lenses’ UV protection levels. Until more is known, consumers can protect themselves by making sure they buy good glasses in the first place, by purchasing lenses that are labeled “100% UV protection” or “UV400.” Most pairs sold in the United States offer this level of protection, Dr. Pettey says, but it’s still a good idea to confirm before purchasing. (According to a 2014 survey, almost half of people shopping for sunglasses don’t think to check for this language.) Don’t take into account factors like cost, polarization, lens color or darkness, either; these don’t necessarily make a difference in UV blockage. “Even clear lenses you’d wear with a prescription can have protection, as well; it’s not necessarily about how dark they are,” says Dr. Pettey.
Although the same aging standards are not used in the United States, Jeff Pettey, MD, clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology, Size and fit, however, do matter. “Bigger is better if you’re outdoors doing activities for longer periods of says that the new research does make important time,” Dr. Pettey says. “If you’re skiing or out on the points that could be relevant to Americans. ocean and getting reflected UV light from all directions, larger wrap-around eyewear will certainly “They’re suggesting that the way the industry offer more protection.” j currently tests sunglasses may not be adequate,” says Dr. Pettey. “There’s a lot we may be unaware of that happens over time—so while there is no official recommendation right now, it might make sense to health.com consider looking for a new pair if you’ve worn the
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EDUCATION
Become a Math Whiz In Four Easy Steps
Applications Now Being Accepted for CISV
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any people find mathematics daunting. If true, this article is for you. If not, it is still for you. What do you think of when you think about mathematics? Perhaps you think about x’s and y’s, intractable fractions, or nonsensical word problems. The cartoonist Gary Larson once depicted hell’s library as containing only giant tomes of word problems. You know, “If a train leaves New York…” I was trained as a mathematician, and I will let you in on a trade secret: That is not what mathematics is, nor where it lives. It’s true that learning mathematics often involves solving problems, but it should rules.
dumped it onto a cutting board. He patted the cheese into a circle and drew lines into it, one vertical, one horizontal, dividing the cheese patty into quarters. He then carefully pushed one quarter of the cottage cheese back into its container. Voilá! Three-quarters of 2/3 cup of cottage cheese remained.
Here’s a classic problem from research on mathematics education done by Jean Lave. A man, let’s call him John, is making ¾ of a recipe that calls for 2/3 cup of cottage cheese. What do you think John did? If you’re like me, you might immediately dive into calculations, perhaps struggling with what the fractions mean, working to remember the rules for arithmetic. That’s what John seemed to do, at first. But then he had a Eureka! moment.
These messages are especially important for parents helping children learn mathematics. If you understand the problem you’re trying to solve, you’re well on your way to solving it. And you, yes you, are a problem solver.
John is a mathematician and problem solver. First, he understood the problem: He needed ¾ of what the recipe called for, which was 2/3 cup. Then, he made a plan, most likely visualizing in his head how he would measure and divide the cottage cheese. Finally, he carried out the plan.
ounded in 1950, CISV International is a global organization dedicated to educating and inspiring for peace through building inter-cultural friendship, cooperation and understanding. CISV offers seven international camp-based, family exchange and local community programs.
families in Copenhagen, Denmark; 3 week leadership camps for 14 year olds in Indonesia and 15 year olds in Norway, 3-week reciprocal stays for 14-15 year olds with families in Paris, France; as well as programs for 16-18 year CISV Jacksonville is one of 20 CISV chapters in Did he check his answer? That remains unclear, I invite you to see yourself as a problem solver but we can check the validity of his work for him. the United States and is celebrating 40 years of olds. You are invited to learn more on Fri, Feb 2 and mathematician. And I’d like to introduce you at 7 pm at Riverside Presbyterian Day School, Did he indeed end up with ¾ of 2/3 cup of to the man who once invited me to the study of giving Jacksonville youth the experience of cottage cheese? Yes, because the full amount problem solving: George Pólya. 830 Oak St, Jacksonville, FL 32204 or by their lives and the opportunity to build lasting was reduced by one-quarter, leaving threevisiting www.cisvjax.org. friendships through international educational quarters. For many reasons, not the least of which is that programs. Pólya died in 1985, you will meet him as I did Village: – through his wildly successful “How to Solve It.” Would this solution work with different foods or CISV Jacksonville is now accepting applications https://www.youtube.com/ serving sizes? So long as a person could divide Penned in 1945, this book went on to sell over watch?v=diGAn251p0E to select Jacksonville youth and adults to that serving into quarters, yes, the plan would one million copies and was translated into 17 work. languages. represent the USA at their 2018 international Interchange: programs. Of course, this is a cheesy problem – sorry, I As a mathematician, Pólya worked on a wide https://www.youtube.com/ really didn’t even try to fight that pun – which is a range of problems, including the study of watch?v=VQSQJRMGo38 Youth have the chance to go to camps and common complaint about story problems. I chose heuristics, or how to solve problems. When you programs with youth from around the world, read “How to Solve It,” it feels like you’re taking a it because it has delighted math researchers for Step Up: develop leadership and communication skills, years, and because John is quite clever in his guided tour of Pólya’s mind. This is because his https://www.youtube.com/ share their cultures and build global writing is metacognitive – he writes about how he solution. He is also extremely mathematical. watch?v=0HOfYTaCYuA&t=11s friendships. thinks about thinking. And metacognition is often I’ve taught mathematics, and how to teach the heart of problem solving. Pólya’s problem solving plan breaks down to four mathematics, for nearly 30 years. For over a CISV offers a 4-week Village camp for 11 year Visit www.cisvjax.org/apply to submit an decade, it was my job to convince high school simple steps: olds with kids from 12 countries (camps held in application. j freshmen not only that algebra was meaningful, Germany, Brazil & Costa Rico), 2-week but that it was meant for them, and they for it. In 1. Make sure you understand the problem. reciprocal stays for 12-13 year olds with my work, I’ve met many people who love 2. Make a plan to solve the problem. mathematics and many who find it overwhelming 3. Carry out the plan. and nonsensical. And so it’s an important part of 4. Check your work to test your answer. my work to help people see the beauty and wonder of mathematics, and think of themselves There it is. Problem solving in the palm of your as mathematicians. hand – math reduced to four steps. Grades middle through high school
John measured 2/3 cup of cottage cheese, then
We all know it’s not always so simple to solve problems. Pólya did too. That’s the glory of it – the messy, wonderful, powerful adventure j Jennifer Ruef, University of Oregon theconversation.com
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EDUCATION
Super Scientific Circus
SING OUT Every Child Has Musical Ability
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Hungarian film titled “Sing”” recently won the Oscar last year for best short film. “Sing” tells the story of young Zsófi, who joins a renowned children’s choir at her elementary school where “everyone is welcome.” Soon after joining, Zsófi is told by her teacher Erika not to sing, but only mouth the words. On the face of it, she accepts her teacher’s request stoically. But later in the movie, her anguish and pain become obvious, when she reluctantly tells her best friend what happened. The movie goes on to reveal that Zsófi isn’t the only choir member who has been given these hurtful instructions. The choir teacher’s defense is, “If everybody sings we can’t be the best.” I have been a professor of music education for the past 28 years, and I wish I could say that the story of a music teacher asking a student not to sing is unusual. Unfortunately, I have heard the story many times. In fact, research shows that many adults who think of themselves as “unmusical” were told as children that they couldn’t or shouldn’t sing by teachers and family members. All children are musical Children are natural musicians, as they readily sing, dance and play music from the time they are infants. People ask me all the time how they can tell if their child has musical talent. I assure them that their child – indeed every child – has musical ability that can be developed into a satisfying and lifelong relationship with music.
some innate ability – like “talent” – are more likely to give up. My own research found that if children have a negative view of themselves as singers, they are much less likely to participate in music of any kind. These self-perceptions of a lack of musical talent can then become a self-fulfilling prophecy. Research shows that adults who dropped out of music as children may lose their singing skills through lack of use and opportunity. Kids who love music but do not think of themselves as musical could miss out on many of the social and cognitive benefits of music participation, on the experience of feeling connected to others through song. These benefits have nothing to do with talent. GET CHILDREN SINGING How can we send children the message that singing is for everyone? I argue that change could begin both at home and at school. For example, if you are a parent, you could sing the music you loved growing up and not worry about how good you sound. Having an adult in the home committed to music and singing without shame may be the most powerful influence on a child. You could sing with your kids from the time they are little, sing with the radio, sing in the car or sing at the dinner table.
As for my fellow music teachers, I ask that you encourage all of the children in your classrooms, schools and communities to sing whenever and wherever they get a chance. The sad truth is, when we, the musical experts, discourage a child However, as they get older, some children begin to get messages from peers, family members, the from singing, it can deliver a fatal blow to the child’s musical self-image. media and (unfortunately) music teachers that they may not be very musical – that they don’t Music teachers need to teach in a climate of have “talent.” collaboration and participation where all voices are heard and valued – not one of audition and THE ‘TALENT’ MINDSET competition where only the best can sing. The movie “Sing” is actually titled “Mindenki” in Shows like American Idol have promoted the Hungarian, which means “Everybody.” That’s the notion that singing is a rare ability reserved for uplifting message that Zsófi and her choir mates the talented few, and that those without such teach Miss Erika in the end. Singing is not talent entertain us only by being ridiculed and reserved for the few: Either everybody sings or weeded out. nobody should. j This “talent mindset” of music runs counter to what psychologist Carol Dweck calls the “growth Steven M. Demorest, Northwestern University mindset” that is considered critical for learning: The Conversation.com Students who view their success as a result of hard work will persevere through challenges, while students who believe their success lies with
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EDUCATION
Parent Academy Scholarships
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he Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is offering a $1,000 college scholarship for eligible graduating Duval County seniors. Requirements include: A minimum unweighted GPA of 2.5; two letters of recommendation (one school-based and one community-based); 25 hours of documented community service; an official high school transcript; and a 300 words or less essay answering the question: “Why is parent/guardian involvement important to student success?”
Parent Academy promotes parental involvement and enhances student achievement. Free Parent Academy courses are offered in schools, libraries, community centers and faith-based institutions. The Parent Academy’s focus is in three strands: Student Achievement, Parenting & Advocacy, and Personal & Individual Growth. Student Achievement: Workshops and activities provide parents and caregivers with tools to promote students’ academic achievement and navigate the school system.
Also, recipients’ parents must have attended at least three Parent Academy courses during the 2017-18 school year.
Parenting & Advocacy: Workshops and activities provide tools to more effectively enhance parenting, advocacy, and leadership skills.
Applications and supporting documents are due on or before May 11 at the Parent Academy email: parentacademy@duvalschols.org or by mail to Tia Leathers, Parent Academy Executive Director, 1701 Prudential Dive, 6th floor, Jacksonville, Fl 32207.
Personal & Individual Growth: Workshops and activities provide tools for supporting the personal and professional growth of parents and caregivers.
For more information call 904-390-2960.
For more info and to get involved see dcps. duvalschools.org/parent academy courses during the 2017-18 school year. j
Florida STEM & Health Expo
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iver City Science Academy is bringing Jacksonville together once again to ignite a passion for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math at the annual STEM and Health Expo. On Saturday, February 10, 2018 from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., RCSA will host its 6th Annual Florida STEM and Health Expo. This hands-on event is unlike any other, breaking outside of the traditional booth to booth experience. The Expo features exciting science demonstrations, STEM educators and scientists, community health supporters, many vendor booths, food and fun. The theme for this year’s Expo is “Preparing Florida’s future STEM & Health workforce.” The futures of Jacksonville, Florida and the U.S. depend on highly trained professionals in the STEM fields. We must engage students from an early age so they emerge as leaders in STEM. To achieve this, representatives from all over Jacksonville come together at the Expo to offer activities to students, teachers and the public. There is truly something for everyone to learn from and enjoy at this public event. River City Science Academy is the first charter school in the district to receive an A grade and be named a high-performing charter school by the Florida Department of Education (FLDOE). RCSA
offers a private school atmosphere in a tuitionfree, public school setting. The school’s leadership helped guide instructional focus in Florida’s integration of the Common Core Standards, and RCSA was deemed a showcase school by FLDOE and PCG Education. Success like this comes from RCSA’s innovative approach and commitment to STEM. Students of diverse backgrounds and learning abilities use state of the art technology to learn in an interactive and structured environment. RCSA recognizes the impact of community involvement and actively enlists the help of leaders in STEM fields and beyond. Through college mentorship and internships, students gain invaluable support to help them achieve their goals. The annual Florida STEM & Health Expo has become a symbol for RCSA’s success and a staple in the Jacksonville community. The mission continues this year as we seek to ignite the passions of another group of future leaders in STEM and Health. Entry to Event is free and the event is open to the public. Visit www.flstemexpo.com for more information. j
Page 22 • Jax4Kids.com • February 2018
OPENS FEB 15
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EDUCATION
Regional Spelling Bee Has New Sponsor
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he 2018 First Coast Regional Spelling Bee, the qualifier for the Scripps National Spelling Bee, is slated for Friday, March 9, at the Florida Theatre in downtown Jacksonville. The Jacksonville Sports Council (JAXSPORTS) will serve as host. This is JAXSPORTS first year sponsoring this event which is in its 74 year. It was formerly sponsored by The Florida TimesUnion newspaper. And for the first time the event will be televised live in primetime by WJXT, Channel 4. “JAXSPORTS is excited to host this signature community event that focuses on youth and education in Northeast Florida,” said JAXSPORTS Chairman, Charlie Tomm. “Our goal is to celebrate the time, hard work, and preparation that each of the students dedicate to their education.” Local spellers will compete at both school and district spelling bees prior to competing in First Coast Spelling Bee. The First Coast Bee will pit the top two spellers from each of the fourteen
districts against one another for a chance to represent the region at the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Last year’s regional winner, Sreeniketh Vogoti from Fruit Cove Middle School, placed 4th in the national Bee. “We welcome the Jacksonville Sports Council as a valued sponsor of our program,” said Paige Kimble, executive director of the Scripps National Spelling Bee. “The local spelling bee is an important community event and JAXSPORTS Council is committed to continuing the longstanding tradition of spelling bees for schools in their community. This is a wonderful example of how Jacksonville celebrates grit, achievement and the spirit of competition.” JAXSPORTS is a membership-based organization that was established to showcase Northeast Florida as a sports destination for professional, amateur and youth sports. JAXSPORTS is a member of the National Association of Sports Commissions and the Florida Sports Foundation.
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A World of Apps
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f it seems like the world of apps is overwhelming, that’s because it is! But not to fear – the editors at Common Sense Media have combed through the thousands of apps out there to pick the best. Whether you want to teach your preschooler the ABCs or read a great interactive story with older children, yes, there’s an app for that.
One Globe Kids – Stories, beautiful photos help kids build global awareness. Devices: iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad. Ages 6. Wizard School – Get inspired with curated videos and creative challenges. Devices: iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad. Ages 7 and up.
Slice Fractions – Super fun slicing app presents Here are a few of their recommendations for apps key concepts in engaging way. Devices: iPhone, that kids should play at least once: iPod Touch, iPad, Android, Fire phone, Kindle Fire. Ages. 8 and up Busy Shapes 2 – a simply brilliant puzzler that develops critical thing. Designed for iPhone, iPod SkyView - Explore the Universe. Astronomy app Touch, iPad. Ages 2 and up. uses location to explain your view of the sky. Devices: iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad. Ages 9 and up. My Very Hungry Caterpillar – The famous book inspires activities and encourages kids to nurture. The Orchestra – Stellar videos and interactive Designed for iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Android, features make beautiful music. Devices: iPad. Windows Phone. Ages 2 and up. Ages 10 and up. Metamorfabet – Learn letters and words through Duoligo: Learn Languages Free – Plentiful, fun, amazing animations. Devices: iPhone, iPod Touch, fantastic, and free language lessons. Devices: iPad. Ages 3 an up. iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Android, Chromebook, Kindle Fire, Nook HD, Windows Phone. Ages 11 Leo’s Pad Enrichment Program for and up. Preschoolers – Charming stories, interactivity get preschoolers thinking. Devices: iPad. Ages 4 Procreate – Awesome professional-level tool for and up. digital artists. Devices: iPad. Ages 13 and uo Thinkrolls 2 – Maze puzzler packed with smart, science fun. Devices: iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Android, Fire phone, Kindle Fire. Ages 5 and up. Twelve A Dozen – Heroine saves the day with math in lovely, fun platformer. Devices: iPad. Ages 5 and up.
We know academic results are important to you. Sylvan students typically see up to two times more growth in their math and reading scores than if they hadn’t come to Sylvan*. Sylvan can make reading and math the fun adventure it should be. Sylvan will develop a personalized learning plan to get your child back on track. Call now to schedule a skills assessment! Time to start preparing for the Spring FSA and EOC exams!
PicsArt - Photo Studio – Top-notch photo app crams in functionality; some iffy stuff. Devices: iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Android, Kindle Fire. Ages 16 and up. Learn more about these and a whole lot more at commonsensemedia.org.j
FEBRUARY 2018 • Jax4Kids.com •
Page 23
EDUCATION
It’s Testing Season! Are Your Kids Ready?
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pring is on its way, and that means it’s almost testing season for area public, private, and home schools.
to watch their time. This will help students decide if they need to speed up or slow down their testing pace.
Many students dread testing, but with knowledge of a few strategies and help from you, your kids can perform well on their next test.
Break Down Writing Prompts The best way to prepare for writing tests is to practice writing to prompts. Your child’s English teacher has probably done this in class, but you can do it at home, too.
Eat and sleep well a few days before testing To perform well on tests, your kids need plenty of rest and good nutrition. I’ve known some families who create fun family traditions for testing week. For example, one student’s family always eats fish the night before their kids take a standardized test, since fish is believed to boost brain performance. Other parents I know put their kids to bed in increasingly earlier increments as testing eve approaches. In this way, their students are able to approach their tests with maximum brain power and wellness. Still other parents make their kids a power breakfast with lots of protein on testing morning. Use Process of Elimination If students are taking multiple-choice tests, they can use the Process of Elimination (POE) strategy to their advantage. Students who use this strategy simply eliminate answers they know or think are incorrect, trying to find the correct answer. If they can scale down four or five answers to two, they have a 50/50 chance of selecting the correct one. Students can also look for “distractors.” Distractors are multiple-choice answers that seem right at first glance, but are incorrect. Watch Your Time Teaching students to watch their time is another key strategy. If possible, students should complete sections they know best first. Doing so will give them more time to work on areas of the test they don’t know as well.
Writing prompts are usually multi-faceted. If your student can analyze the prompt and break it down, he or she will be better able to write a successful essay. Familiarize Yourself with State Standards In Florida, public schools and many private schools use Next Generation Sunshine State Standards (NGSSS) as guidelines for what students should be learning in first through twelfth grades. The NGSSS are easily accessible for parents. Please consider downloading the standards for your children’s grade levels and reviewing them at home. You don’t have to be a teacher to do this! Further Resources For more information on Florida Standards Assessment (FSA), please visit http://www.fldoe. org/accountability/ assessments/k-12-student-assessment/fsa.stml For help with Florida Standards Assessment writing prompts for grades 4-10, please visit https://study.com/academy/popular/fsa-writingprompts.html To read and download NGSSS for kindergarten through twelfth grade along with many other resources, please visit www.cpalms.org
j Nancy Lee Bethea
Even if the test your student is taking is not timed (and some are not), it’s still a good idea for them
Page 24 • Jax4Kids.com • February 2018
My Color-Full Florida
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y Color-Full Florida, by Linda Schilling Mitchell is a fun and interactive way to learn about the interesting people, places and things in Florida’s amazing history. It is a collection of stories that are conversational and interactive for readers of all ages, and each story is complemented with a black and white illustration. Adult readers and students will enjoy adding their personal touch by coloring these pictures too. The stories include the Discovery of Florida, The St Johns River, Flagler’s Railway, Florida Citrus, Historic Lighthouses, The Barefoot Mailman, The House of Refuge and more. It also covers the history of numerous, famous preDisney attractions such as Bok Tower Gardens, Weeki Wachee, The Coral Castle, Stephen Foster Memorial, The Ringling Museum of Art and others. Fourth grade teachers will find it a wonderful added resource when teaching Florida History to their students.
But My Color-Full Florida far goes beyond young readers and students. It is an ideal way for new residents of Florida to learn our history, or for long timers to reminisce about the wonderful places we have to visit. My Color-Full Florida retails for $9.99 and is available on amazon. You can also reach the author for special pricing for teachers at lmitchell4261@yahoo.com. j
Valentine’s Gift Ideas for Teachers
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asked myself… As a teacher, what would I want (or not want)? Here are my top ten Teacher gift ideas (written by a TEACHER!) 1. Any kind of gift card for coffee, treats, or lunch: Starbucks, or your local coffee shop, Cold Stone Creamery, Dairy Queen, Subway, McDonalds. (We teachers are like a pack of wolves when it comes to food. Anything that is somewhat edible and ends up in the teacher lunchroom is sucked up quicker than a Lego in a vacuum cleaner.) An Amazon gift card is another great option… not much you can’t get on there! 2. Fancy markers/Colored Sharpies 3. Post-it Notes & Blank Note Cards 4. Gorilla Double Sided Tape & Stickers 5. Fun smelling hand soap or hand sanitizer 6. Fuzzy or fun socks 7. If your child’s teacher/school has iPads: iTunes gift card 8. Book store gift card 9. Candy or some other type of treat: if you don’t know… go with chocolate! Often it is
chocolate or caffeine that get us through the day! 10. Get the teacher his/her favorite beverage (that won’t get your kid sent to the principal’s office) or favorite candy If your child is old enough, have them do a little re-con work: get them to find out his/her teacher’s favorites… (good chance they’ll already know…) One of my favorite gifts last year was when a student brought me a fountain pop from Holiday gas station and gift card for more… He had been paying attention and noticed that many-a-day there was one of those bad boys on my desk. (*Please Note: teachers do not “expect” gifts, and a hand written note is wonderful, too!)
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ithinkwecouldbefriends.com
SPRING BREAK CAMPS Intercoastal Kids Spring Break Camp March 16, March 19 - 23 6:30am – 6:30pm Ages 4 - 13. They will kick off the break with a St. Patrick’s day rainbow party. On Monday, they’ll have a rip-roarin’ good time at the Country Fest, complete with live animals and a real BBQ lunch. Tuesday, is “Green” Day, where they’ll head to Krispy Kreme donuts, get a visit by the green Game Truck, have a “green” spa day and a fresh green salad and fruit buffet lunch. Wednesday, it’s crabbin’ day and they’ll be grabbing their nets and heading off to Castaway Island where they’ll catch crabs and hike the nature trails, and enjoy a Dixie-style lunch back at the center. Next campers will have Green Thumb Garden day, where they’ll take a trip to Plant Ranch Nursery and learn about plants and gardening. Campers will burn off some steam at Jack Russell park and enjoy a picnic lunch in the shade. The last day together is their famous Amelia Island Excursion. They’ll hop on the Mayport Ferry and head to the beach, where campers will fly kites, build sand castles and dip their toes in the water. Pizza delivery is on the menu for lunch, then one last stop to get yummy ice cream at Amelia Island’s favorite ice cream pit stop. Cost is $220 for all 6 days, $185 for 5 days. www.intercoastalkidspreschool.com / 904-2203993 / 13109 Professional Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32246 Jacksonville Zoo Spring Camp featuring Dinosauria • March 19 - 23 9am - 4pm each day, with optional extended care available Grades K - 5th. Spring Zoo Camp featuring Dinosauria. We can travel around the world to see different species of animals and plants, but we haven’t yet found a way to travel back in time to see the dinosaurs. Luckily, at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, the dinosaurs are coming to see us, and kids in grades K-5th have the opportunity to spend their spring break learning all about these fascinating prehistoric creatures. Enjoy a week of dino-related fun and games while meeting some of dinosaurs’ modern relatives and experiencing our Dinosauria exhibit at no extra charge! www.jacksonvillezoo.org / 904-757-4463 / 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218 TNT Gymnastics Spring Break Camp March 19 - 23 - Duval County March 26 - 30 - St Johns County 9am – 3pm - Extended day hours available Ages 3 – 13. Includes snack, craft, gymnastics, obstacles, trampoline, rock wall, foam pit and more. Cost: Full week $155 - 1st child, $140 siblings. Full day $50 – 1st child, $45.50 siblings. Half day $35 any child. Register now as spots are limited and will fill up! Save $5 when you register online in the Parent Portal. www.tntgymfit.com / 904-998-8681 2683 St Johns Bluff Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32246
MOCA Spring Art Camp March 16, 19 - 23 • 9am - 5pm MOCA Jacksonville provides half-day and fullday sessions for kindergarten through fifth grade students during spring 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 or 9am - 5pm: $50 each day mocajacksonville.unf.edu / 904-366-6911 / 333 North Laura St, Jacksonville, FL 32202 Jacksonville Junior Volleyball Association Kids Camp March 19 - 22, March 26 - 29 • 9am - 5pm Kids Camp is open to boys and girls and caters to children from the ages of 5 to 11 years old. It is packed full of fun and games and includes activities like Dodgeball, Volleyball, Kickball and Archery, Nutrition and Fitness Activities, Arts and Crafts, Obstacles, Relay Races and Games. www.jjva.com / 904-854-2323 / 8457 Western Way, Jacksonville, FL 32256 Iron Diamond Sports Baseball/Softball Spring Skills Camp March 19 - 23 • 9am – 3pm Extended hours available Boys and Girls Ages 6-15. Campers will be grouped by age/skill level. Camp features: Professional & Collegiate Instructors, Friday Pizza Party for Lunch and Games & Prizes. Camp topics include: Hitting, Throwing, Fielding, Pitching, Catching, Baserunning and Speed/ Agility. Lunch will NOT be provided, EXCEPT on Friday. There will be a pizza party on Friday. Water & Drinks will be available. Cost: $225. *Registration Deadline March 18, 2018. Single Day Registration: You can attend single days of camp for $60/day. Extended Hour Fees: *All campers remaining 15 minutes after pickup time will be put in extended care and subject to fee. Early Drop-Off: $10/Day. Late Pickup: $10/Day. Both: $15/Day irondiamondsports.com / 904-219-8417 / 361 Penman Road South, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 Karate Arts Spring Camp • March 19 - 23 9am - 2pm, extended day 7am - 6pm Ages 5 and up. Activities include Basketball, Sports, Gladiator Games, Karate, Crafts, BlackLight, Video Challenge, Survivor Games and more. Cost: 9am - 2pm - $20/day or 7am - 6pm - $25/day. www.karatearts.net / 904-722-0110 / 7801 Lone Star Road, Jacksonville, FL 32211 Happy Acres Spring Break Camp March 19 - 23 • 8:30am - 5pm Extended hours available Kindergarten – age 13. Activities include football, basketball, lacrosse, volleyball, horseback riding, gardening, wood working, building, nature,
shuffle board, side walk games, scooters, scavenger hunts, capture the flag and many more. Cost: $175 plus a $50 registration for the 1st child and $25 for each additional child in each family. www.happyacresranch.com / 904-725-1410 / 7117 Crane Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32216 Jax Surf & Paddle Spring Break Camp March 19 - 23, March 26 - 30, April 2 - 6 9am - 3pm Age 6 – 16. Jax Surf Camp is a fun and safe way to advance a child’s surfing skills, ocean knowledge, and comfort in the water. Campers will break into groups depending on age and skill. Intermediate level surfers are welcome as well as beginners. After completing the five-day surf camp, your child will have learned these fundamental skills: water safety, paddling, navigating the surf zone, and of course standing up on a board! Cost: Half Day – $210/week or $50/day. Full Day – $350/week or $100/day (lunch included). Camp Location: 7th St and Ocean Ave, Atlantic Beach, FL. 32233 jacksonvillesurfandpaddle.com / 904-435-7873 / 222 Orange Street, Neptune Beach, FL 32266 Donovin Darius’ Spring Break Football Camp March 28 - Nocatee March 29 - Ponte Vedra March 30 - Fruit Cove 9am – 12pm Ages 7 - 13. These Spring Break Youth Football Camps were designed to develop athletes in the fundamental skills needed to take their games to the next level. Cost: $35 per camp. Limited to 50 athletes per camp. www.dariusnextleveltraining.com / 904-2903320 / 1046 A1A North, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 MOSH Discovery Camps March 19 - 24 • 9am – 3pm Extended Care: 7:30am – 5pm The Art of Science for K-2nd Grades What do Picasso and Newton have in common? Brilliant creativity! MOSH campers will use their creativity and imaginations to explore scientific ways to make art. Campers will make their own original artworks using various scientific processes, learning about science as well as awakening inspiration. The Science of Art for 3rd-5th Grades From Jackson Pollock to Theo Jansen, artists have used science to bring their creations to life for centuries! MOSH campers will learn how famous artists use different kinds of science in their art while using science to make creations of their own. Cost: $164 for MOSH Members / $205 for NonMembers http://www.themosh.org / 904-396-MOSH / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 Theatre Jacksonville Spring Break Camp
March 19 - 23, March 26 - 30 8:30am - 5:30pm Grades 2 - 12. Theatre Jacksonville’s Spring Break Camps offer great fun for students on their annual Spring Break holiday from school. During each of our 1-week sessions our campers will get a chance to explore, be challenged, create, and express themselves in a fun and safe learning environment. Cost: $300/ week www.theatrejax.com / 904-396-4425 / 2032 San Marco Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207 Rebounderz Spring Break Camp March 19 - 23, March 26 - 30 9am - 2pm 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, Snookball, Arts & Crafts, Games & Team Competitions. Cost: $195 for the week; $45 per day; $15 per day of Extended Care rebounderzjacksonville.com / 904-300-0070 / 14985 Old St. Augustine Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258 First Coast YMCA Spring Break Day Camp March 16, March 19 - 23, March 26 - 30 6:30am - 6pm For ages 5-12. At the Y’s Spring Break Day Camp, children have the chance to participate in themed games, stir up their imagination, get plenty of exercise, and make new friends. Activities include: Arts and Crafts, Field Trips, Team Sports, Games, Science Experiments and more. They will have fun just being a kid in a safe and enriching environment. Plus, you can sign up for any number of days. Both members and non-members are welcome to attend, so invite your friends. For more information or to register your child, stop by the Welcome Center at your local Y. Pricing may vary by camp location. Daily rates are also available. www.firstcoastymca.org Visit website for details per location. Limelight Theatre Girl Spring Break Camp March 26 - 30 • 9am - 12pm Kindergarten – 5th. HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROOVE? - Imaginative mini-musical about a group of musically talented vegetables growing in Freddy and Franny Farmer’s garden. This is not your typical garden-variety musical. The french-fried potatoes have “appeal,” leafy vegetables sing “Lettuce Entertain You,” and corn and peas beg “Please Don’t Put Us in a Can-Can!” With the help of Freddy and Franny, these lively veggies sing and dance their way into everyone’s hearts. Cost: $150 limelight-theatre.org / 904-825-1164 11 Old Mission Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32085
FEBRUARY 2018 • Jax4Kids.com •
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Page 26 • Jax4Kids.com • February 2018
St. Johns County School District News Teacher of the Year Finalists The finalists for St. Johns County Teacher of the Year are Amy Grimm from Julington Creek Elementary, Kathleen Hunting from Osceola Elementary, Jonathan Higgins from Pedro Menendez High, and Chassity Johnson from Sebastian Middle.
become strong, independent leaders.
Higgins is an IB Psychology teacher for 11th and 12th grade students and was instrumental in creating the IB program at Pedro Menendez. Student and parent praise are what drives him as an educator and reminds him that doing Grimm is a first-grade teacher at Julington Creek. what is in his heart is far more important than a She has 22 years of teaching experience all numerical score. He has nine years of teaching within the St. Johns County School District. Her experience. His message to others is to focus on message to fellow teachers is that what they do the aspirations of each student, regardless of his/ matters and they are loved, capable and imporher academic ability and that all students should tant each and every day. be afforded the opportunity to participate in advanced courses or various programs of study if Hunting teaches second grade at Osceola they desire regardless of their skills and abilities. Elementary where she is a school-wide leader in technology. She has been a district teacher for 6 Johnson is an eighth grade pre-algebra and years and serves as a Girls on the Run coach to geometry teacher at Sebastian Middle. She also help 3rd-through-5th-grade girls be positive and participates in the student intern program St.
Spelling Bee Winner Carly Miller, an eighth-grade student at Switzerland Point Middle School, won the 2018 St. Johns County School District Spelling Bee held Jan. 17 at First Coast Technical College. Carly, the daughter of Carrie and Jeramie Miller, won by spelling the word “piccolo” correctly. Jackson Willis, an 8th-grade student at Liberty Pines Academy, is the runner-up. He is the son of Monica and Benjamin Willis. Both students will advance to the JAXSPORTS Council Regional Spelling Bee on Friday, March 9, at the Florida Theatre in Jacksonville. Last year’s district winner Sreeniketh Vogoti from Fruit Cove Middle School went on to place 4th at the national spelling bee.
Thirty-four elementary and middle school students from 29 public and five private schools competed for the honor of representing St. Johns County. It took 26 rounds for the winner to be determined. The participants were congratulated by Deputy Superintendent for Academic and Student Services Brennan Asplen. Also in attendance to support the students were School Board Chair Bill Mignon and School Board Vice-Chair Kelly Barrera. Rebecca England, program specialist for Elementary Language Arts, served as the spelling bee coordinator and the pronouncer was Linda Villadoniga, a retired teacher. Judges for the event were Jay DiMartino, Language Arts and World Languages program specialist; Cheryl Freeman, volunteer coordinator; and Sandy Waldeis, community representative. WFOY 102.1 FM broadcasted the spelling bee live and Murphy Alexander, instructional television specialist, taped the event. The Spelling Bee will be broadcast on SEA TV channels 99 or 262 and is available for viewing at www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/ video.
Remembering Martin Luther King, Jr. Students from St. Augustine High School and St. Johns Technical High School hosted and presented colors at the Dr. Martin Luther King Celebration Breakfast last month at the National Guard Armory. Pictured from left to right are Gladston Bygrave, Thomas Adkison, Superintendent Tim Forson, Thomas Marrero, Cornelius Stewart. Ronald Jackson, Brenton Vona and Angelica Green (not pictured) also assisted with the event.
Augustine High School’s Teaching Academy each year. She has 14 years of teaching experience, 10 in the district. Her message to other teachers is best relayed in a quote from Maya Angelou, “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” The annual Teacher of the Year and Rookie Teacher of the Year Celebration is produced by the INK! (Investing in Kids) to recognize excellence in the teaching profession. For more information on INK visit ink-stjohns.org. Superintendent Tim Forson, along with School Board Chair Bill Mignon and School Board Member Bev Slough, as well as school district staff and representatives from INK!, The Players, Beaver Toyota and Carlyle paid a surprise visit to the Teacher of the Year finalists at their schools in December. This year, the finalists were also treated to a visit from a very special guest, Bucky the Beaver.
New Principals Selected
Tiffany Cantwell, assistant principal at The Webster School, has been selected to be the principal of Ocean Palms Elementary. She will replace Jessica Richardson who was approved by the school board earlier this month as the principal of K-8 school “KK” currently being constructed in Ponte Vedra. Catherine (Peralta) Goodrich, assistant principal at Palencia Elementary School, has been selected to be the principal at Palencia. She will replace Allen Anderson who was approved earlier this month as the principal of K-8 school “LL” currently being constructed in St. Johns.
Follow us on Twitter ready has many established relationships with families and students.” As an assistant principal, Cantwell has developed and guided a team to review and create a standards-based grading policy and served as a mentor to other assistant principals. Her love of professional development has spurred her to form a leadership cadre, perform technology demonstrations and create professional learning communities for paraprofessionals and new teachers. Cantwell holds a bachelor’s degree from St. Thomas University in Miami and a master’s degree from the University of North Florida. Goodrich started her educational teaching career over 25 years ago. She joined the district in 2005 as a second-grade teacher at Timberlin Creek Elementary. She served as the instructional literacy coach there before becoming its assistant principal in 2010. In 2013 she was named the assistant principal at Osceola Elementary and served there for two years before joining the district Human Resources Department as the employee evaluation coordinator. In 2016 she became the assistant principal at Palencia.
“Catherine is an exceptional leader and will provide a seamless transition for the Palencia Pirates,” said Forson. “She has already garnered the unwavering commitment and support from parents and the community, and I know this will continue in her new role.” Her passion is helping others to develop their Cantwell is currently serving the district as its Outstanding Assistant Principal for the 2017-2018 full potential to best serve the students of St. school year. She has over 16 years of educational Johns County, and her experiences have included the opportunity to train, coach, observe experience joining the school district in 2001 as and evaluate employees. She has also served a fourth-grade teacher at Cunningham Creek Elementary. She went on to teach at PVPV/Rawlings students in the areas of developing math curElementary and became the curriculum resource riculum mapping at the district level and as a coordinator there. In 2013, she was appointed as mentor to both elementary and high school age children. assistant principal at The Webster School. Goodrich holds a bachelor’s degree from Florida “Tiffany is extremely dedicated to her staff and students, and I have no doubt this will transfer to State University and a master’s degree from the her new OPES family,” said District Superintendent University of North Florida. Tim Forson. “She knows the community and al-
Calendar
Monday, Feb. 19...............................................................Presidents’ Day Holiday Thursday, Mar. 15.............................................................Third Quarter ends Friday, Mar. 16..................................................................Planning Day/Student Holiday Monday, Mar. 26-30..........................................................Spring Break
Visit St. Johns County Schools online at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/schools/ for more information. FEBRUARY 2018 • Jax4Kids.com •
Page 27
Clay County School News Principals Selected
The Bee’s Knees
Tracy McLaughlin, the current principal of Ridgeview Elementary School, will be the new principal of Discovery Oaks Elementary, which will open in the fall.
Charles E. Bennett Elementary students celebrate School Spirit Day in Green Cove Springs.
Heather Roche will replace McLaughlin as the new principal of Ridgeview. Roche, assistant principal at Coppergate Elementary, is a graduate of the University of Florida. She began her teaching career in Central Florida before moving to Clay in 2006.
County Cracks State Top 10 With Best-Ever Grad Rate
McLaughlin has spent the last 11 years serving Clay County in various administrative positions. In her most recent principal assignment, she led Ridgeview Elementary to an “A” school status and achieved the highest learning gains in the district for which she was honored as Clay County’s Principal of the Year for 2017. She holds a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from University of Maine.
The Clay County District has recorded the best graduation rate in its history, according to the Florida Department of Education’s 2016-2017 graduation rates released last month. The District moved up 3.7 percentage points from 84.7 percent to 88.4 percent, a 14.2 percentage point
All-County Coaches Cross Country Teams Named
students. Our team approach and collaborative concentration has allowed more students the opportunity to compete in our classrooms and then, successfully, transition to the workforce, military, or college. I am extremely proud of our schoolbased leaders, college and career coaches, school counselors, and teachers for establishing high expectations and supports to ensure that more students meet graduation requirements,” said Superintendent Addison Davis. Of the eight county high schools, six increased their graduation rate. The other two schools showed a slight decrease, but both remained at the more than 90 percent level.
The Clay “All-County Coaches Cross Country Teams” have been selected by their head coaches.
For the “1st Team” girls selections, Juliana Franzoni of Fleming Island High School, led the pack with a best time of 19:48, a personal best, at the district meet. Teammates Emma Millson and Jennifer Fliess join Franzoni on the 1st Team. Millson, a freshman had a personal best time of 20:05 this year and was selected “Most Outstanding Freshman” for the 2017 cross-country team. Fliess, a sophomore also recorded a time of 20:05. Middleburg High School freshman Emma Mussante, winner of the “Ridgeview Last Chance Invitational.” had personal best of 20.50 to earn a spot. Rounding out the
Tracy McLaughlin
Heather Roche
1st team was Ridgeview freshman Marisa Kortright with a personal best of 21:09. For the boys 1st Team, Fleming Island seniors Andrew Miller and Evan Fuller recorded the first (15.47) and second (16:15) fastest times of the selections. Miller, a recipient of a scholarship to Elon University, was the district, conference and county champion, and finished 8th overall at the state meet, while Fuller was a two-time individual state qualifier. Dylan Nelson, Oakleaf High School sophomore, had a personal best of 16.48 and broke the school record three times this season. Rounding out the team were Ridgeview’s Joel Nesi, and Orange Park’s John Bear, both with a personal best of 16:56.
The schools also posted record high post-secondary increase over the last six years. In addition, Clay readiness (PSR) scores in both reading and math. County has obtained record highs in multiple sub- Reading PSR scores increased 13 percentage groups and moved from 17th to 9th overall in the points from 61 percent in 2015-2016 to 74 state, which brings the district into the “Top 10.” percent in 2016–2017. Mathematics PSR scorces increased 14 percentage points from 45 percent “Our school district will not only be measured in in 2015-2016 to 59 percent in 2016-2017. Girls: Juliana Franzoni, Emma Millson, Jennifer Boys: Andrew Miller, Evan Fuller, Dylan Nelson, its educational destination, but by its academic Fliess, Emma Mussante, Marisa Kortright Joel Nesi, John Bear journey as well. This data illustrates the treTo view the state graduation rates, see fldoe.org, Calendar mendous efforts of our teachers, administrators, the Florida Department of Education’s website. Monday, Feb. 19 Presidents’ Day Holiday support staff, parents, and most importantly, our Friday, Mar. 9 End Third Grading Period (41 days) Connect with us! www.oneclay.net Monday, Mar. 12-16 Spring Break OP/Middleburg (904) 272-8100 Monday, Mar. 19 Planning Day, Student Holiday Green Cove Springs (904) 284-6500 Keystone Heights (888) 663-2529 Tuesday, Mar. 20 Students Return to School TDD (904) 284-6584 Friday, Mar. 30 Good Friday Holiday
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PETS
Things to Do
Pet Snack Options
S
ome foods that are safe for people are not safe for pets. While some food items can be given in moderation as a healthy, low calorie snack, others can be toxic. Since dogs and cats should have no more than 10% of their daily calories come from treats or snacks outside their main diet, vegetables and fruits can be a great way to provide low calorie and healthy options for your pet. Here are some healthy options:
Low Fat Meat Options • Cooked ground turkey (99% fat free): 1/2 ounce (14 grams) serving = 15 calories • Baked chicken breast: 1/2 ounce (14 grams) serving = 14 calories Harmful Human Foods
• Many foods are very high in calories or salt, which your pet may not be able to tolerate. Other foods are simply utilized • Apples: 1/2 cup chopped = 30 calories differently and can be toxic to pets. Here • Bananas: 1/4 cup banana = 34 calories are foods that it’s better to avoid: • Cantaloupe: 1/2 cup, diced = 27 calories • Toxic Foods for Pets • Strawberries: 1/4 pint strawberries = 29 • Macadamia nuts calories • Garlic • Blueberries: 1/4 cup or about 25 berries • Onions/Chives = 20 calories • Grapes • Watermelon: 2 melon balls = 10 calories • Raisins • Honeydew melon: 2 melon balls = 10 • Chocolate calories • Xylitol (in most sugar-free gum and other products) Vegetable Options Fruit Options
• Carrots: 1/2 cup chopped or slices = 25 calories • Baby carrots: 1 baby carrot = 5 calories • Green beans: 1 cup of 1/2 inch pieces = 30 calories • Sweet red peppers: 1/2 cup chopped = 23 calories • Broccoli: 1 cup chopped or diced = 30 calories • Tomatoes: 1 cherry tomato = 3 calories • Green peas: 1/4 cup green peas = 30 calories • Zucchini: 1/4 cup slices = 7 calories • Celery stalks: 1 stalk = 7 calories • Cucumber: 1/2 cup slices = 8 calories • Asparagus: 1/4 cup or 3 spears = 10 calories
High Salt Foods to Avoid (if your pet has a heart condition or otherwise should have lower salt)
Pet Events
Chariots of Fur Beach Run & Festival February 3, 1pm The Chariots of Fur Beach Run & Festival is a unique event that participants can enjoy, with or without their dog, on Jacksonville Beach. The 2018 Chariots of Fur Beach Run & Festival will include a 5k, 1-mile fun run/walk and festival with sponsor booths, DJ music, contests, food trucks, dog demos, dogs available for adoption, activities for kids, massages, raffle prizes and a silent auction. There will be long sleeve shirts for participants, medals to the first 500 finishers, custom ribbons for your dogs, and goodie bags with items for people and pets to all entrants. The coveted Chariots of Fur Dog bowl will now be presented to runners who run with dogs based on AKC classifications of Sporting, nonSporting, Herding, Hounds, Working, Terrier and Toy. The top 5 male and female will be awarded bowls. Seawalk Pavilion / 75 1st Street North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / chariotsoffur. itsyourrace.com Pet CPR & First Aid February 3, 9am to 12noon Pet CPR & First Aid features training in restraining & muzzling, primary pet assessment, bleeding & shock management, snout-to-tail assessment™, choking protocols, canine & feline CPR, rescue breathing, and more. Each student will receive a PetSaver™ handbook, and upon successful completion each student will receive a certificate of completion. Cost is $149. Bartram Park Animal Hospital / 904-635-3665 / 13760 Old St Augustine Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32258 / petlifesaverjax.com Puppy Level 1 Group Class February 13, 6pm to 7pm February 18, 4pm to 5pm February 22, 7pm to 8pm This 6-week introductory group class focuses on socialization and is designed to teach your puppy all the basics such as “ Sitting, “ “ Walking on a Loose Leash “ , “ Come When Called “ and various other problem-solving lessons.
Deli meats Cheeses Most bread products Potato chips
PetSmart National Adoption Weekend February 16-18 On average, more than 15,000 pets find homes every time PetSmart Charities hosts a National Adoption Weekend. Held 4 times a year, these events showcase adoptable pets in every PetSmart store in the United States and Canada, usually feature several adoption organizations at each store. PetSmart Stores / www.petsmartcharities.org Braided Fleece Tug Toys for Dogs February 17, 3pm to 4pm Join library staff and make a homemade braided fleece tug toy for your own pet or make one to donate to the local animal shelter. This program is for ages 5-12. Free. Jacksonville Public Library - Beaches Branch / 904-241-1141 / 600 3rd Street, Neptune Beach, FL 32266 / jpl.coj.net Pet Food Bank Distribution February 24, 10am to 12noon The Pet Food Bank provides a one-month supply of cat or dog food to households with up to 4 dogs and 5 cats. As a requirement, all animals must be spayed or neutered pets. If you arrive before 9:30am, you will be asked to wait off-site. No lines will be allowed before 9:30am, however, lines are much shorter after 11am. Please keep your pets at home during food pickup. But be sure to bring Proof of Spay/Neuter for Each Pet, Proof of Income Qualifications, Photo Identification, Container or Bag for Each Pet’s Food, Terms of Agreement – First Time Receivers Only, and a Food Bank Application – First Time Receivers Only. First Coast No More Homeless Pets Cassat Hospital / 904-425-0005 / 464 Cassat Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32254 / www.fcnmhp.org
Like Jax4Pets.com’s Facebook page at facebook.com/jax4pets to find out about other events for pets.
Pet Emergency Contacts
K
now where to go before you need it! In the event your pet has a medical emergency when your regular Vet is closed, program the address and phone number of the pet ER location nearest you. Here are a few area pet emergency centers that are Always check with your veterinarian to make available to treat your pet in the case of an emergency. sure you know what foods are ok for your specific pet, especially if they have any Affiliated Veterinary Emergency Center medical conditions. Happy Snacking! j 904-642-5911 3444 Southside Blvd vetnutrition.tufts.edu Suite #101 Jacksonville, Florida 32216 • • • •
Petco Yulee / 904-225-0014 / 463713 State Rd, Yulee, FL 32097 / www.petco.com
Beach St. Johns Animal Hospital 904-641-2230 11211 Beach Boulevard Jacksonville, FL 32246 Clay Duval Pet Emergency Clinic 904-264-8281 275 Corporate Way Suite 200 Orange Park, FL 32073 Mandarin Pet Emergency 904-268-4118 10635 Old Saint Augustine Road Jacksonville, FL 32257
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THINGS TO DO Nano Exhibit at MOSH • Thru June 17 An interactive exhibition that engages family audiences in nanoscale science, engineering and technology. Hands-on exhibits present the basics of nanoscience and engineering, introduce some real-world applications, and explore the societal and ethical implications of this new technology. MOSH / 904-396-MOSH / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org The Venardos Circus • Thru February 10 Venardos Circus, a unique family-friendly traveling Circus, will bring its show to the St. Augustine Amphitheater through February 10. The show features alluring aerialists, amazing acrobatics, plus comedy, juggling, daredevilry, and performers from around the world. An interactive pre-show party takes place one hour before show time with opportunities to meet the cast, snap selfies and play games. The main event lasts approximately 90 minutes, with a brief intermission. Tickets are $25 for adult General Admission, $15 for youth and seniors, with a $35 V.I.P. experience available which includes special front row seating. Under 3 admitted free with paid adult ticket. The St. Augustine Amphitheatre / 904-209-0367 / 1340C A1A South, St. Augustine, FL 32080 / www. staugamphitheatre.com Disney’s The Lion King Thru February 11 Disney’s The Lion King will return to the TimesUnion Center’s stage on January 31, 2018 for a limited two-week engagement through February 11, 2018. Disney’s The Lion King is a two and a half hour Broadway production and recommended for ages 6 and up. Tickets are available online. All ages, including infants, must have a ticket. Premium Ticket Packages, which include a prime seat location, a commemorative souvenir program and an exclusive merchandise item, are also available. There will be a School Time Matinee performance on February 1at 1pm. Times Union Moran Theater / 904-632-5000 / 300 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www. fscjartistseries.org 32nd Annual Hoggetowne Medieval Faire February 2 (Discount Day), 9:30am to 3pm February 3-4, 10am to 6pm The Alachua County Fairgrounds is transformed into a bustling medieval marketplace for the 32nd Annual Hoggetowne Medieval Faire. Step back in time and cheer on jousting knights, wander through the medieval marketplace where hundreds of artisans sell their wares, witness a battle on the living chess board, partake in olde world games and rides and feast on food fit for a king. Enjoy nine stages of entertainment where the forgotten skills of full-flight falconry, gripping aerial acrobatics and old-world magic come to life. Jugglers, knife throwers and gypsy dancers add to the excitement as they fill the streets of Hoggetowne. Tickets are Adults – $18, Youth (5-17) – $8, Senior/Military – $15, and Children under 5 – Free. Alachua County Fairgrounds / 352-393-8536 / 2900 NE 39th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32609 / www. hoggetownefaire.com I Have a Dream - The Life and Times of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. • February 2, 10am and 12noon The phenomenal impact of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is chronicled in this compelling dramatization of the life and times of one of the most influential and
charismatic leaders of the “American Century.” Inspired by the arrest of Rosa Parks, Dr. King becomes the prime mover behind the Montgomery, Alabama bus boycott, putting his philosophy of non-violent protest to work. He gains national recognition and becomes the dominant force in the Civil Rights Movement during its decade of greatest achievement. Performed by Virginia Repertory. Presented by FSCJ Artist Series at the Nathan H. Wilson Center for the Arts. Tickets are $8.50 per person. Two performances; one at 10am and one at 12noon. Please note: Shows fill up quickly. Call or email to purchase your tickets. Nathan H. Wilson Center for the Arts / 904-6325050 / 11901 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.fscjartistseries.org
Joan Whitson at 904-495-3645 or at jwhitson@ elcnorthflorida.org. Solomon Calhoun Center / 904-495-3645 / 1300 Duval Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.kiwanisofstaugustine.com
School of the 16th Century February 3, 9am to 5pm Learn what it was like to live in the 16th century through multiple interactive classes held from 9am to 5pm at the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park hosted by the Men of Menéndez. Learn how to fire a crossbow or musket and find out about the clothing and cooking from that time period. Admission into the park is $15 for adults, $14 for seniors, $9 for youth ages 6-12, and free for youth ages 5 and under. Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park / 11 Magnolia Avenue, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.floridashistoriccoast.com
The Avenues Mall Vault February 10 The Jacksonville Athletic Club hosts the 2018 Avenues Mall Vault. This event is to serve as not only a great way to promote the sport of pole vault, but also provide the vaulters with a great opportunity to vault high. Avenues Mall / 904-363-3054 / 10300 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / www.jaxtrack.com
Florida Blue Free Tuesdays at the Cummer Museum • February 6, 13, 20, 27, 4pm to 9pm Every Tuesday, enjoy free admission to the Cummer Museum and its historic Gardens, thanks to the generous support of Florida Blue. Guests can enjoy free admission to the Galleries and Gardens. Each Tuesday evening, the Cummer Café is open for Tapas Tuesday sponsored by VyStar Credit Union. Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens / 904-356-6857 / 829 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.cummermuseum.org TEACH: Better Together February 10, 7:30am to 4pm WJCT presents the 5th annual TEACH Conference, an event created to engage, empower and inspire teachers. TEACH 2018 will be held Saturday, February 10 at the Hyatt Regency Riverfront in downtown Jacksonville, Florida. Teachers are invited for a day filled with national speakers, breakout sessions, exhibitors, book signings, breakfast, lunch, door prizes and more. TEACH tickets bought for TEACH 2016 and 2017 will be honored for TEACH 2018 on Saturday, February 10, 2018. Tickets are $30 each, and are available online. Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront / 904-3586367 / 225 E Coastline Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.wjct.org Kiwanis Character Breakfast February 10, 9:30am The Kiwanis Club of St. Augustine’s first annual Character Breakfast event will include a breakfast with a variety of Disney and other characters, who will go table-to-table for hugs, high fives, photos, and autographs. Activities include a Princess Parlor, Super Hero Corner, Pirates’ Shipyard, and more. There will also be multiple photo opportunities, a Chinese auction, and a DJ. Tickets are $15/person and can be purchased online. Children under 2 are free. Kids are encouraged to come dressed in their super hero/princess attire. For questions contact
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FL STEM and Health Expo February 10, 10:30am to 3pm The River City Science Academy hosts the sixth annual STEM and Health Expo. All families are welcome for a day of STEM experiments and activities, community resources, learning, food, music and more. This event is free and open to the public. River City Science Academy / 904-855-8010 / 7565 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32216 / flstemexpo. com
Enjoy learning about Hall of Fame Presidents George H.W. Bush and Dwight D. Eisenhower while you take a scavenger hunt that enters you to win a Hall of Fame package. Admission is $10 for military personnel and free for kids this weekend. World Golf Village Hall of Fame / 904-940-4015 / 1 World Golf Place, St. Augustine, FL 32092 / www. worldgolfhalloffame.org 33rd Annual Cathedral Festival February 23-25 The Cathedral Festival features fun and activities for all ages. There will be live music, food, entertainment, rides, and more. Admission to the festival grounds is adults $5; children 11-17 and adults 65+ $3; children 10 and under and active duty military are admitted free. Tickets for rides and activities will be sold separately. Mission of Nombre de Dios Mission / 904-824-2861 / 101 San Marco Avenue, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / thecathedralfestival.com
Northeast Florida Scottish Highland Games & Festival • February 24, 9am to 10pm Northeast Florida Scottish Games and Festival are bringing a “Wee Bit o’ Scotland” to the Northeast Florida area. Each year residents of Northeast Flor16th Annual Fort Menendez Homeschool Experi- ida and the surrounding areas gather and enjoy the ence • February 13, 9:30am to 2:30pm athletics, music, food and fun of the games. Tickets The Home School Experience is an interactive can be purchased online here, at participating ticket experience facilitated by costumed guides providing outlets, or at the gate. If purchased online, tickets history and instruction in the use of tools and games are $12/person, plus fee. Please note that all tickets for each historical time period. Participants will purchased the day of the games at the gate are $15 also complete a take-home project in each program each. All children 10 years of age and younger are area. The Home School Experience includes a free. Parking is free. Timucuan Indian council house and chief’s hut, a Clay County Fairgrounds / 904-725-5744 / 2497 Spanish wattle and daub house, a Florida Pioneer State Road 16 West, Green Cove Springs , FL 32043 one-room schoolhouse, exploration on the high seas / www.neflgames.com aboard a replica 70’ Caravel and a mock archaeological dig. The first program will start at 9:30am. “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing” Concert After the 11:45am midday break, there will be two February 24, 2pm final programs ending the day at 2:15pm. The cost Join the Jacksonville Children’s Chorus in celebratis $19.95 per person for ages three and up at the ing the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. All JCC door. If you call and pay prior to January 31st; you choirs will perform. Also performing will be guest will receive the discounted price of $17.95 per per- choir: The Hampton University Concert Choir. Doors son. Payment at the time of reservation is required open at 1:30pm. Tickets are $20 each. for the discounted price. Prices are for guest 3 years Hendricks Avenue Baptist Church / 904-353-1636 old and up. Children under 18 must be accompa/ 4001 Hendricks Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / nied by an adult. (* Please note: coupons or tickets www.jaxchildrenschorus.org purchased or received from outside retailers are for our General Public tour only and may not be used Monster Jam 2018 • February 24, 7pm for the Home School Experience. ) These are guided Monster Jam returns to Everbank Field. The event educational tours, and are not to be confused with will feature 14 trucks and drivers vying to be the the General Public admission to the museum which Jacksonville champion, including: Grave Digger; Hot is primarily “edutainment” in the Indian and Spanish Wheels, El Toro Loco plus the return of the military areas only. The general public tour does not include theme inspired truck – Soldier Fortune. (Trucks/ the Archaeology or Florida Cracker Pioneer actividrivers subject to change without notice.) Tickets ties. The regular price for all 5 programs for school start at $15. New in 2018, the Pit Party Early Acchildren and adults is $27.50 per person. cess Pass is available to every fan who purchases The Old Florida Museum / 904-824-8874 / 259 San a ticket to the event. The pass provides early entry Marco Avenue, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / oldflorida- into the Pit Party from 1:30pm-2:30pm and serves museum.com as the regular Pit Party pass from 2:30pm-5:30pm. Tickets and Pit Party Passes are available at the Puddles Pity Party • February 15, 8pm Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena Box office in Puddles Pity Party performs live in one show only at advance, online, or by phone. Same day event ticket the Ponte Vedra Concert Hall. Gates open at 7pm, and pit pass required for entry to pit party. and the show begins at 8pm. Tickets range from Everbank Field / 800-745-3000 / 1 Everbank Field $36 to $46. Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.monsterjam.com Ponte Vedra Concert Hall / 904-209-3746 / 1050 EDITOR’S NOTE: Dates, times and locations are A1A North, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www. accurate at time of publication; events and activities pvconcerthall.com Presidents Day Weekend at the Hall of Fame February 17-19
listed in this guide are subject to change without notice. Visit Jax4Kids.com for updated information and more events!
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