Jax4Kids February 2021

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Contents • February 2021

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Dear Readers,

LIVING WELL

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f there is one thing the pandemic has taught us it is how valuable it is to be resilient. We can do our children a service by teaching them from an early age how to be resilient. Turn to page 12 to learn how to build resilience in infants and toddlers.

Also for parents of infants and toddlers, if you are looking for quality childcare, The Learning Experience Flagler and River City locations are offering Jax4Kids readers a $25 discount on registration now through March 31. See page 13 for details, locations and contact information. The Learning Experience offers military and sibling discounts and accepts ELC School Readiness vouchers and is an approved provider for Child Care Aware, the Coast Guard and NACCRRA military subsidy programs.

Vaping is harming our youth; so much so that the City of Jacksonville has launched a campaign to educate families about the ugly truth about vaping. Read Vaping is Ugly on page 20 and learn more at vapingisugly.com.

Community Profile: Sulzbacher Center �����������������������������������������������������������������������������4 Valentine's Day Events ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������4 Making Valentine’s Day Joyful ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������5

HEALTH & SAFETY

Helping Children Cope with Changes Due to COVID-19 ����������������������������������������������������6 Things to Do: Health & Safety Events �����������������������������������������������������������������������������6 A Drop in Body Temperature ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������7

EATING WELL uals with sensitivities to processing sensory information such as sound, light, touch, etc., to explore the cultural experiences comfortably.

Tickets to World of Nations are available for advance purchase for $5 + tax & fees (ages 3 and under are free). For more details about the World of Nations Celebration, turn to page 23.

If you’re missing a movie theater experience, you can enjoy a private viewing party with 15 friends or family members for $10 per person This month, we celebrate Black History Month. at the World Golf IMAX Theatre, where there is Turn to page 13 for a selection of books that plenty of room to social distance. See page 5 celebrates Black history and find more at liberafor details or visit WorldGolfIMAX.com. tionstationbookstore.com.

Turn to page 5 for ideas on how to make this New dietary guidelines are released every five Valentine’s Day joyful! And, page 4 for things to years. For an overview of the recently released do to celebrate Valentine's Day. 2020 - 2025 guidelines, turn to page 8.

Happy Valentine’s Day! The City of Jacksonville’s 29th Annual World of Nations Celebration will be held February 26, Until next month, 27 and 28 with COVID-19 mitigation protocols in place. Sensory-friendly programming will be Alison Peters-Carlson offered on Friday, February 26th from 9am until Editor 11am. This will be an opportunity for individ-

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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 Mary Gustafson Business Manager............... mary@jax4kids.com Published by Child Enrichment, LLC, 12620-3 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246. Copyright 2020.

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New Year, New Guidelines! The Dietary Guidelines 2020-2025 �����������������������������������������8 Things to Do: Eating Well Events ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������8

SPECIAL NEEDS

Quirky Kids 2nd Edition On Sale February 2nd ����������������������������������������������������������������9 Things to Do: Special Needs Events �������������������������������������������������������������������������������9

INFANT & TODDLER

Nutrition for Infants and Toddlers ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 10 Mom's Night Out Events ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 10 Building Resilience in Infants and Toddlers ������������������������������������������������������������������� 12 Things to Do: Infant & Toddler Events ���������������������������������������������������������������������������� 12

EDUCATION

Black History Month Books ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 13 Things to Do: Educations Events ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 14 WJCT Public Media Launches the 2021 PBS Kids Writers Contest �������������������������������� 15 TV That Inspires Compassion ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 15 Duval County School News ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������16-17 Clay County School News ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 18 St. Johns County School District News �������������������������������������������������������������������������� 19

TEENS

Vaping Gets Ugly �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 20 Things to Do: Teen Events �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 20

PETS

DNA Tests For Pets ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 21 Things to Do: Pet Events ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 21

NATURE

'Smart' Bees Are Helping to Protect Our Food Supply ��������������������������������������������������� 22 Things to Do: Nature Events ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 22

THINGS TO DO

Things to Do: February Events �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 23

FEBRUARY 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 3

LIVING WELL

Community Profile: Sulzbacher Center T he Sulzbacher is Northeast Florida’s largest provider of comprehensive services for homeless men, women and children. They are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Founded in December of 1995 as the I.M. Sulzbacher Center, the Mission of Sulzbacher is to empower homeless and at risk women, children and men by providing a continuum of care approach, addressing all aspects of homelessness including housing, income and healthcare.

Housing Services • Short Term Emergency Housing: This program includes three meals per day and access to the full array of services including case management, healthcare, job placement, veteran’s services, children’s services and housing placement for men, women and families with children.

• Permanent Housing: Housing placements are offered at Sulzbacher Village, as well as several scattered-site locations throughout the city.

• Chronically Homeless Offenders Program (CHOP): CHOP offers people who have been homeless for a year or more, the opportunity to receive permanent housing placement with wrap-around supportive services to maintain that placement.

• Veteran’s Services: Both emergency and permanent housing placements are offered for both men and women veterans and their families.

Healthcare Services • Healthcare for Adults: Sulzbacher is a Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) deemed facility that offers a complete range of healthcare services to the community.

Services are provided on a sliding fee scale based on the patient’s ability to pay, and all insurances are accepted.

• Healthcare for Children: Sulzbacher Village Pediatric Health Center offers primary care, dental, vision and behavioral health services to children living at Sulzbacher Village, as well as to children in the surrounding community. Supporting this hub of services is Sulzbacher's School-Based Health Center at Ribault High School.

• Medical Respite: Sulzbacher’s medical respite program is a recuperative, temporary housing placement that addresses the health issues facing homeless persons following a hospital stay for illness or surgery.

Hope • Urban Rest Stop: The Urban Rest Stop at Sulzbacher’s Downtown Campus is a place for people experiencing homelessness to go during the day to receive services includ-

ing case management, showers, meals, healthcare, mailboxes, shelter placement, job referrals and more. Services are available from 7:30am – 4pm, Monday through Friday.

• Hope Street Outreach Program (HOPE): Sulzbacher’s medically focused HOPE Teams are street outreach teams that distribute clothing, blankets, food, water, and basic hygiene items to their clients who are living on the streets in Downtown Jacksonville and at the Beaches.

• Career, Education, & Life Skills: Sulzbacher offers services including high school diplomas and equivalencies, job readiness, job training and job placement to all of its clients at both campuses.

• Children’s Program: Through a variety of fun and educational activities, the Children’s Program at Sulzbacher Village has activities that include tutoring, music, arts and crafts and scouting. Their children’s program wing is equipped with a library, an arts studio, a playground, basketball court, and a computer lab.

• Crawford Early Learning Center: This high-quality early learning program at Sulzbacher Village provides children from birth to age five with the best chance to be prepared for kindergarten when they enter school. A therapeutic, behavioral health component provides interventions including Infant Mental Health and Trauma-Informed Care for children who have experienced significant trauma stemming from domestic violence, physical abuse or other ordeals.

• Food Services: Sulzbacher’s Downtown Campus serves nutritious meals to anyone in the community who is hungry. Clients in Sulzbacher’s Short Term Emergency Housing are served three meals a day, and meals are open to the community two times a day.

Get Involved The Sulzbacher cares for some of Jacksonville’s most vulnerable citizens, therefore they cannot close during this crisis. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 Sulzbacher is currently unable to accept volunteers. However, you can help your neighbors in need by donating new or gently used items. Or, make a monetary donation online. Just $2.05 provides a meal and care.

Go to sulzbacherjax.org for a list of their most needed items. They do need your donations, but please do not drop donations off without making prior arrangements.

Visit sulzbacherjax.org for more information on Sulzbacher, their services and how you can help.j

sulzbacherjax.org

FEBRUARY 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 4

Valentine's Day Events Kids Club Online: Kid Made Modern “Love Bugs” February 2, 5pm In this Valentine themed craft, kids will be crafting “Love Bugs” made of handmade pom poms, felt and googly eyes. Tie on a cute tag or write a message to your Valentine on the bottom to make these a cute and easy gift to give on Valentine’s Day. Supplies needed include yarn in varying colors of your choice, googly eyes (2 per bug), fuzzy sticks in varying colors of your choice, felt and/or construction paper in colors of your choice, scissors, white craft glue or hot glue, 4” piece of cardboard or chipboard to make your pom poms, sequins for decorating, and additional felt or construction paper to craft wings if you want. Free.

Michaels / 1-800-MICHAELS / www.michaels. com Virtual Event: Valentine's Day Craft February 3, 12noon to 12:30pm Join Main Library’s Adult Programming Assistant Beth online as she creates a lovely decoration for her front door in celebration of Valentine’s Day. To follow along, you will need a ball of yarn in any color (Beth will be using gray) and a matching ribbon, a heart-shaped foam wreath form, a bamboo skewer, a small amount of red and pink felt, a pair of scissors, and a hot glue gun. This is an online event that can be watched on the library website, Facebook page, or YouTube channel.

St. Johns County Public Library / 904-827-6940 / libm@sjcfl.us / sjcpls.org Kids Arts & Crafts: No Sew Hearts February 3, 3pm Kids of all ages are invited to join Ms. Nicole and make some no sew hearts to celebrate Valentine's Day. Stop by the Anastasia Library for your kit, then watch the online video for instructions. This is an online event that you can watch on the library's website, Facebook page, or YouTube channel. If you cannot make it to the library for the kit, the supplies needed for the project are felt, scissors, and batting (or something to use as stuffing).

St. Johns County Public Library / 904-209-3730 / libai@sjcfl.us / sjcpls.org Valentine's Day Clay Party February 6, 2:30pm to 4pm Children's Art Classes - Baymeadows invites ages 3 to 17 for an afternoon of clay cupids and sweet treats. Cost is $25 per child, with sibling discounts available. Registration is available online.

Children's Art Classes – Baymeadows / 904612-7557 / 8411 Baymeadows Way, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / childrensartclasses.com

Daddy Daughter Date Night / Celebrate Valentine's Day February 6, 5:30pm to 7pm Color Me Mine hosts a Daddy Daughter Date Night. There will be painting, games, a photo booth and more. There will also be complimentary chocolates. A $15 deposit will reserve your table and will be deducted from the final bill. Participants can pick anything to paint, no restrictions. Pottery items range in prices from $16 to $50.

Color Me Mine Jacksonville / 904-338-9333 / 10300 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / jacksonville.colormemine.com Kids Club Online: Valentine’s Day Box February 9, 5pm Join Michael's online to make a Monster Valentine’s Box. This project is recommended for ages 3+. Visit website for supply list.

Michaels / 1-800-MICHAELS / www.michaels. com Teen and Tween Sewing and Crafting-Valentine's Day Banner February 10, 4:30pm to 5pm Teens and Tweens, grades 6-12, join Ms. Carla to create a banner to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Pick up a kit at your local library branch while supplies last, kits are limited. Materials needed in addition to the kit are scissors, a ruler, a pencil, and a glue stick, glue, double-sided tape or a hot glue gun (adult supervision maybe needed) for attaching letters and hearts to the banner. This is a non-sewing craft. This is an online, virtual event. Free.

St. Johns County Public Library / 904-827-6940 / libm@sjcfl.us / sjcpls.org Kids Valentine's Craft Bundle Class: Valentine’s Day Art Gallery February 10, 8pm Kids of all ages are invited to make their own Valentine's Day art gallery. They will learn how to make their own easel out of craft sticks as well as create Valentine's themed miniature art pieces that can be handed out to friends and family.

Michaels / 1-800-MICHAELS / www.michaels. com Library Kids Live: My Funny Valentine February 13, 3pm to 4pm February 14 is two holidays: In addition to Valentine's Day it is also Library Lover's Day. Celebrate friendship and love virtually with the library. The featured book will be Falling For Rapunzel by Leah Wilcox. For today's program, bring your funniest joke to share with the group.

This event is held online.

Jacksonville Public Library / 904-255-2665 / jaxpubliclibrary.org

LIVING WELL

Making Valentine’s Day Joyful n Valentine’s Day, many people eagerly 0 anticipate romance, roses, and more.

However, the joy of sending a Valentine or

small token of love or appreciation goes beyond just the romantic and can extend to others that you love or care for, such as your children, your parents, nieces and nephews, and anyone else. Kids excitedly await Valentine’s Day as well. Parents can make the day extraordinary for their kids (and vice versa) as well through thoughtful ways to show our appreciation of one another. Here are some ideas of things to do: Make Valentine’s themed meals.

• Breakfast. Make pink pancakes, a Valentine’s waffle bar, or heart shaped toast if you don’t have much time. If oatmeal is on the menu today, dress it up with a red fruit, such as strawberries or raspberries. It doesn’t have to take a long time to cook to be festive and fabulous.

• Snack. Cut strawberries into heart shapes (and serve with a side of yogurt or almonds). Or make beautiful red applesauce.

• Lunch. Make the sandwich heart shaped. Use a smaller heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut the veggies. Add a chocolate covered strawberry. Throw in a love note. It can be that easy to transform lunch into part of your Valentine’s Day theme.

• Dinner. Nosh on heart shaped spinach calzones with strawberries or a strawberry and spinach salad on the side.

Make Valentine heart love notes.

Decorate your child’s door with love notes.

Use construction paper hearts and fill them with things you love or appreciate about him for him to wake up to on Valentine’s Day. Decorate the house.

Have everyone participate in decorating the house with homemade or store bought decorations. Use Valentine’s cards from years past to decorate as well.

Do a random act of kindness together.

Visit a nursing home and hand out homemade Valentine’s Day cards. Give a drawing of a flower to each of the elderly on your street. Bake cookies to deliver to the police station. It’s a great day to express love for fellow humans, even those you don’t know.

Make gift certificates.

Have the family make gift cards for one another. A few that would be well received in my house would be “I will do one chore for you,” “I will play Legos with you for 15 minutes,” and “Let’s make a Saturday morning pancake breakfast.”

Do something that your kids love that you don’t often do.

Some ideas: • Have a picnic at one of your meals.

• Play a favorite board game.

• Set out all of the art supplies that you can gather and get to work on masterpieces. Have everyone include five things that they love or appreciate about one another.

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Celebrate “We Love to Be a Family Day.” Visit a garden or plant some flowers.

Instead of buying expensive bouquets, enjoy plants at the garden or spend time together planting some of your own plants.

Fill the day with love notes.

If it’s a school day, find ways to hide love notes for your child throughout the day by placing notes on your child’s agenda, homework, lunch, or anything else you know she’ll see during the day. If it’s not a school day, hide them around the house or send your child on a scavenger hunt to find them. j superhealthykids.com

Private Viewing Party $10/Person Minimum of 15 people

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FEBRUARY 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 5

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HEALTH & SAFETY

Helping Children Cope with Changes Due to COVID-19

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t is very important to remember that children look to adults for guidance on how to react to stressful events. This is a tremendous opportunity for adults to model for children problem-solving, flexibility, and compassion as we all work through adjusting daily schedules, balancing work and other activities, getting creative about how we spend time, processing new information from authorities, and connecting and supporting friends and family members in new ways. The following tips can help.

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Take Time To Talk •

Stay Calm, Listen, and Offer Reassurance •

•

•

•

•

•

Be a role model. Children will react to and follow your reactions. They learn from your example.

Be aware of how you talk about COVID-19.

Your discussion about COVID-19 can increase or decrease your child's fear. If true, remind your child that your family is healthy, and you are going to do everything within your power to keep loved ones safe and well. Carefully listen or have them draw or write out their thoughts and feelings and respond with truth and reassurance.

Demonstrate deep breathing. Deep breathing is a valuable tool for calming the nervous system. Do breathing exercises with your children.

Focus on the positive. Celebrate having more time to spend as a family. Make it as fun as possible. Do family projects.

Organize belongings, create masterpieces.

Sing, laugh, and go outside, if possible, to connect with nature and get needed exercise. Allow older children to connect with their friends virtually.

Establish and maintain a daily routine.

Keeping a regular schedule provides a sense of control, predictability, calm, and well-being. It also helps children and other family members respect others’ need for quiet or uninterrupted time and when they can connect with friends virtually.

Identify projects that might help others.

This could include: writing letters to the neighbors or others who might be stuck at home alone or to healthcare workers; sending positive messages over social media; or reading a favorite children’s book on a social media platform for younger children to hear.

Offer lots of love and affection.

•

Let your children's questions guide you.

Answer their questions truthfully, but don't offer unnecessary details or facts. Don't avoid giving them the information that experts indicate as crucial to your children's well-being. Often, children and youth do not talk about their concerns because they are confused or don't want to worry loved ones. Younger children absorb scary information in waves. They ask questions, listen, play, and then repeat the cycle. Children always feel empowered if they can control some aspects of their life. A sense of control reduces fear.

Correct misinformation. Children often imagine situations worse than reality; therefore, offering developmentally appropriate facts can reduce fears.

Be Aware of Your Children’s Mental Health Most children will manage well with the support of parents and other family members, even if showing signs of some anxiety or concerns, such as difficulty sleeping or concentrating.

Some children, however, may have risk factors for more intense reactions, including severe anxiety, depression, and suicidal behaviors. Risk factors can include a pre-existing mental health problem, prior traumatic experiences or abuse, family instability, or the loss of a loved one.

Parents and caregivers should contact a professional if children exhibit significant changes in behavior or any of the following symptoms for more than 2 weeks.

Preschoolers - thumb sucking, bedwetting, clinging to parents, sleep disturbances, loss of appetite, fear of the dark, regression in behavior, and withdrawal.

Elementary school children - irritability, aggressiveness, clinginess, nightmares, school avoidance, poor concentration, and withdrawal from activities and friends.

Adolescents - sleeping and eating disturbances, agitation, increase in conflicts, physical complaints, delinquent behavior, and poor concentration. j nasponline.org

FEBRUARY 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 6

interactive video style maps, a Donna Marathon playlist, tribute wall, Things to Do include and an Audio In-Run Virtual Experience

Health & Safety Events Virtual Running Challenge Series Thru February 27 All ages are invited to register for the Virtual Running Series. Every month, log 5k times you ran at area City parks and trails to earn points that will go towards rewards. Running and logging every event will earn you a finisher's medal, while 1st, 2nd, & 3rd place finisher's medals will be awarded to the top three finishers for the Overall Male and Female categories.

City of Palm Coast / 386-986-2360 / www.palmcoastgov.com 5K/8K Superhero Run February 13, 8am Families are invited to grab their capes and take part in the 5K/8K Superhero Run. There will be live music, plenty of hero costumes, and a runner’s village.

The 1 mile fun run will begin at 8am, the 5K and 8K will begin at 8:30am.

Superhero shirts will be given to all participants, and custom designed finisher medals will be presented to all 5K/8K finishers at the finish line. Age group and overall awards will be presented to 8K finishers. Medals will be given to all children 13 and under in the 1 mile fun run. Registration fees range from $12 to $35. Social distancing guidelines are to be observed, and masks are required at the start and finish. The race will be started in waves of 100 people. You must choose your starting wave during registration.

Grace Episcopal Church / 156 Kingsley Avenue, Orange Park, FL 32073 / 1stplacesports.com Donna Marathon Virtual Events February 6 – 14 The annual Donna Marathon Weekend is moving to a virtual version this year. All events will be delivered through a virtual platform, centralized on the Active Experience App. Events include the Marathon, Half Marathon, DONNA Challenge – The “Booby Trap Challenge”, 5K, DONNA 110 Ultra Marathon, DONNA 0.0, and Genentech DONNA Fearless Series. There will also be a virtual race expo, with content delivered via email and a special app.

Other features of the virtual platform

where friends and family can send personalized audio messages (cheers) for inspiration and support during your virtual race day run or walk.

Donna Marathon / 904-355-PINK / breastcancermarathon.com

San Pablo Elementary 5K February 21, 9am Families are invited to participate in a 5K to benefit San Pablo Elementary and their programs. In addition to the 5K, there will also be a 2.5K fun run. The fun run is not timed. Registration fees start at $25.

Jacksonville Beach Lifeguard Station / 2 Ocean Front North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / Managing Your Child(ren)’s Behavior February 25, 6:30pm Learn about the cycle of misbehavior as well as strategies for managing and preventing undesirable behaviors. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a family resource designed for parents, caregivers, and community members. All Parent Academy courses are free of charge.

Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org / dcps.duvalschools.org Annual Ortega River Run February 27, 7:30am For over 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 7:30am, followed by a 5 mile run/walk at 8am. 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, and more. Entry fees range from $20 to $50. This year, there will also be a virtual run option.

St. Mark’s Episcopal Day School / 904-388-2632 / 4114 Oxford Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32210 / www.esj.org

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

HEALTH & SAFETY

A Drop in Body Temperature n the nearly two centuries since German "Declines might be due to the rise of modern I98.6°F physician Carl Wunderlich established health care and lower rates of lingering mild as the standard "normal" body infections now as compared to the past," temperature, it has been used by parents and doctors alike as the measure by which fevers -- and often the severity of illness -- have been assessed.

Over time, however, and in more recent years, lower body temperatures have been widely reported in healthy adults. A 2017 study among 35,000 adults in the United Kingdom found average body temperature to be lower (97.9°F), and a 2019 study showed that the normal body temperature in Americans (those in Palo Alto, California, anyway) is about 97.5°F. A multinational team of physicians, anthropologists and local researchers, led by Michael Gurven and Thomas Kraft, have found a similar decrease among the Tsimane, an indigenous population in the Bolivian Amazon. In the 16 years since Gurven and fellow researchers have been studying the population, they have observed a rapid decline in average body temperature -- 0.09°F per year, such that today Tsimane body temperatures are roughly 97.7°F. "In less than two decades we're seeing about the same level of decline as that observed in the U.S. over approximately two centuries," said Gurven.

"The provocative study showing declines in normal body temperature in the U.S. since the time of the Civil War was conducted in a single population and couldn't explain why the decline happened," said Gurven. "But it was clear that something about human physiology could have changed. One leading hypothesis is that we've experienced fewer infections over time due to improved hygiene, clean water, vaccinations and medical treatment. In our study, we were able to test that idea directly.

We have information on clinical diagnoses and biomarkers of infection and inflammation at the time each patient was seen.

While some infections were associated with higher body temperature, adjusting for these did not account for the steep decline in body temperature over time.”

A key question, then, is why body temperatures have declined over time both for Americans and Tsimane. Extensive data available from the team's long-term research in Bolivia addresses some possibilities.

Gurven explained. "But while health has generally improved over the past two decades, infections are still widespread in rural Bolivia.

Our results suggest that reduced infection alone can't explain the observed body temperature declines."

It could be that people are in better condition, so their bodies might be working less to fight infection, he continued. Or greater access to antibiotics and other treatments means the duration of infection is shorter now than in the past.

It's also possible that greater use of anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen may reduce inflammation.

"Another possibility is that our bodies don't have to work as hard to regulate internal temperature because of air conditioning in the summer and heating in the winter," Kraft said.

"While Tsimane body temperatures do change with time of year and weather patterns, the Tsimane still do not use any advanced technology for helping to regulate their body temperature. They do, however, have more access to clothes and blankets."

The researchers were initially surprised to find no single "magic bullet" that could explain the decline in body temperature. "It's likely a combination of factors -- all pointing to improved conditions," Gurven said.

Temperature is an indicator of what's occurring physiologically in the body, much like a metabolic thermostat. Despite the fixation on 98.6°F, most clinicians recognize that 'normal' temperatures have a range.

Throughout the day, body temperature can vary by as much as 1°F, from its lowest in the early morning, to its highest in the late afternoon.

However, the study suggests that information on body temperature might provide clues to a population's overall health, as do other common indicators such as life expectancy.

"Body temperature is simple to measure, and so could easily be added to routine large-scale surveys that monitor population health," Gurven said. j sciencedaily.com

Experience now through May 16 MOSH Goes Back in Time!

Looking for some nostalgic fun? Join us for a trip down memory lane to rekindle your childhood passion for toys at the Museum of Science & History. Whether your favorite toy was a dollhouse or an Etch-A-Sketch, you’re sure to find it in the exciting new exhibit, TOYTOPIA! This fun-for-the-whole-family exhibit is open now through May 16, 2021 – come rediscover the joy of lifelong learning through play!

Check out

THEMOSH.ORG for more information and tickets.

FEBRUARY 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 7

EATING WELL New Year, New Guidelines!

The Dietary Guidelines 2020-2025

T

he Dietary Guidelines for Americans was first published in 1980 as a science-based outline of what foods and beverages were best to promote health, reduce the risk of chronic disease and to meet nutritional needs. Publication of these guidelines is updated every 5 years as required under the National Nutrition Monitoring and Related Research Act. These Dietary Guidelines are developed by policymakers, nutrition professionals, and health professionals.

Designed for health promotion in the community, these guidelines can assist all individuals from birth through older adulthood to consume a healthy, nutritionally adequate diet. The objective of these guidelines is to reduce the risk of diet-related chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, and overweight and obesity, which may be preventable through good dietary habits and physical activity. The information provided in the Dietary Guidelines is also used to develop federal food, nutrition and health policies and programs, and serve as a guide for local, state, and national health promotion and disease prevention initiatives.

as well as the foodways of the diverse cultures in the United States.

3.

Take a look at the key messages of the most recently published edition of the Dietary Guidelines 2020-2025 and see what dietary recommendations you can incorporate with your family.

1.

2.

Follow a healthy dietary pattern at every life stage.

Key message: At every life stage, it is never too early or too late to eat healthfully.

• From 0 to 6 months of life, exclusively feed infants human milk. Continue to feed infants human milk through at least the first year of life, and longer if desired. Feed infants iron-fortified infant formula during the first year of life when human milk is unavailable. Provide infants with supplemental vitamin D beginning soon after birth.

• At about 6 months of life, introduce infants to nutrient-dense complementary foods.

Introduce infants to potentially allergenic foods along with other complementary foods. Encourage infants and toddlers to consume a variety of foods from all food groups. Include foods rich in iron and zinc particularly for infants fed human milk.

• From 12 months through older adulthood, follow a healthy dietary pattern across the lifespan to meet nutrient needs, help achieve a healthy body weight and reduce the risk of chronic disease.

4.

Focus on meeting food groups needs with nutrient-dense foods and beverages and stay within calorie limits.

Key message: An underlying premise of the Dietary Guidelines is that nutrient needs should be met primarily from foods and beverages, specifically nutrient-dense foods and beverages.

Nutrient-dense foods provide vitamins, minerals and other healthy components and have no or little added sugars, saturated fat and sodium. A healthy dietary pattern consists of nutrient-dense foods and beverages across all food groups in recommended amounts and within calorie limits.

• Vegetables of all types – dark green, red and orange, beans, peas and lentils: starchy; and other vegetables.

• Fruits -especially whole fruit • Grains – at least half of which are whole grain • Dairy – fat-free or low-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese, and /or lactose-free versions and fortified soy beverages and yogurt alternatives.

• Protein foods – lean meats, poultry and eggs, seafood; beans, peas, and lentils, and nuts, seeds, and soy products.

• Oils – vegetables oils and oils in food such as seafood and nuts Limit foods and beverages higher in added sugars, saturated fat, and sodium, and limit alcoholic beverages.

Key message: At every life stage, meeting food group recommendations, even considering nutrient-dense food choices, requires most of a person’s daily calorie needs and sodium limits. A healthy diet does not have much room for added sugars, saturated fat, sodium or alcoholic beverages. Foods and beverages high in these components should be limited.

• Added sugars – less than 10% of calories per day starting at age 2 years. Avoid foods and beverages with added sugars for those younger than age 2 years.

• Saturated fat – less than 10% of calories per day starting at age 2 years.

• Sodium – less than 2300 mg per day, and less for children younger than age 14 years.

• Alcoholic beverages – adults of legal drinking age can choose not to drink, or to drink in moderation by limiting intake to 2 drinks or less in a day for men and 1 drink or less a day for women. Drinking less is better than drinking more when alcohol is consumed. j

Customize and enjoy nutrient-dense food and beverage choices to reflect personal preferences, cultural traditions, and budgetary considerations.

Key message: A healthy dietary pattern can benefit all individuals regardless of age, race, or Aurea Thompson, MSH, RD, CSP, LD/N ethnicity or current health status. The Dietary Guidelines produces a framework intended to be Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Nutrition customized to individual needs and preferences, Wolfson Children’s Hospital

FEBRUARY 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 8

Things to Do Eating Well Events

Yummy Story Time February 2, 9, 16, 10:30am UF/IFAS Family Nutrition Program's Yummy Story Time is a free program designed to encourage preschoolers to make healthy choices. Each session contains a book reading, songs, activities, and a craft that reflects the content of the lesson. The event is recommended for ages 3-5. All attendees must follow CDC guidelines for social distancing and masks are required for all children and their caregivers. Preregistration is required.

Limit 10 children per session. Topics vary each week, but include Fun with Fruit, Moo for Milk!, P is for Protein, and more.

Clay County Fairgrounds JP Hall Exhibit Building / 904-284-6355 / 2497 SR 16 West, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 / sfyl.ifas.ufl. edu Kids Cook: Presidents’ Favorites February 15, 9am to 12noon Jax Cooking Studio invites kids to celebrate Presidents’ Day with a day of cooking some of our presidents’ favorite foods. Each child will be eating what they prepare in class, so come hungry. The menu includes Thomas Jefferson: Macaroni and Cheese, Bill Clinton: Cheeseburgers, Abraham Lincoln: Bacon (to go on President Clinton’s Cheeseburgers!), Dwight Eisenhower: The first lady’s Million-Dollar Fudge made with chocolate, marshmallow, and nuts, and John Quincy Adams: Fresh fruit salad. Cost is $60 per child.

Jax Cooking Studio / 904-742–5906 / 14035 Beach Boulevard , Jacksonville, FL 32224 / jaxcookingstudio.com

Social Distance Farm & Flea February 27, 9am to 1:30pm Orange Park Mall has partnered with The Clay Chamber to bring a socially distanced Farmer's market to the local community.

Farm & Flea will be located at The Grove at Orange Park Mall and will feature local vendors, makers and food trucks. The Grove is a grassy, shaded, lot adjacent to the Dick's Sporting Goods and JCPenney parking lots.

In an effort to keep shoppers, vendors, and staff as safe as possible while continuing the essential service of providing fresh food to the community, they have implemented social distancing and additional sanitation measures. Please maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from other shoppers, especially when in line.

Orange Park Mall / 904-269-2422 / 1910 Wells Road, Orange Park, FL 32073 / orangeparkmall.com Big & Little Chef: Fun Fusion at Home February 27, 10am Big Chef, Little Chef series classes are designed specifically for a guardian/parent, older sibling (18 or older), etc. paired with a young chef. Each pair will work together (along with the rest of the students) to create delicious recipes that are appropriate for adults and kids alike. Big Chef must be 18 or older, and the Little Chef age range should be 5–12 years old. The menu features Beefy Fiesta Crescent Pockets, Korean Chicken Meatballs, Cheesy Italian Sausage and Rice Baked Casserole, and Guava and Cream Cheese Crepes with Whipped Cream. Cost is $75 for each parent/child combo.

Publix Aprons Cooking School / 904-2624187 / 10500 San Jose Blvd Ste 36, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www.publix.com

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

SPECIAL NEEDS

Quirky Kids 2nd Edition On Sale February 2nd

M

uch has changed since the first edition of Quirky Kids was published in 2004. On February 2nd, the 2nd edition of Quirky Kids: Understanding and Supporting Your Child With Developmental Differences will be released.

This classic, coauthored by New York Times columnist and pediatrician Dr. Perri Klass and Boston Medical Center's Chief of Ambulatory Pediatrics Dr. Eileen Costello, has been fully revised and updated to reflect the recent significant changes in the recognition and care of children whose development doesn’t go as expected.

It includes new information about therapeutic interventions, managing co-morbidities, and getting support for children with developmental differences at school. Additional information included covers community resources and initiatives at hospitals and clinics that numerous books including Every Mother make life easier for children with devel- is a Daughter: the Neverending Quest for opmental differences and their families.

Success, Inner Peace, and a Really Clean Kitchen, which she coauthored with her The authors also offer a stronger focus mother, and Treatment Kind and Fair: on self-care for parents in this new Letters to a Young Doctor. She is a edition, with the pediatrician’s perspecmother of three and lives in New York tive of supporting families as they go City. through the diagnostic process over time.

The latest studies show that 1 in 6 Author: Eileen Costello, MD, FAAP children have a developmental disability of some kind—this guide is for the adults Eileen Costello, MD, FAAP, is a clinical professor of pediatrics at Boston Univerwho love them and want to help them sity School of Medicine and the chief of make their way in the world. ambulatory pediatrics at Boston Medical About the authors: Center. She directs the pediatric primary care clinic and is medical director of the Author: Perri Klass, MD, FAAP SOFAR (Supporting Our Families through Perri Klass, MD, FAAP, writes the weekly Addiction and Recovery) program for column, “The Checkup” for The New York children of mothers with substance use disorders. She lives in Jamaica Plain, MA. Times. She is Professor of Journalism j and Pediatrics at New York University, practices pediatrics at Bellevue Hospital and is the National Medical Director of Reach Out and Read. She is the author of

Things to Do Special Needs Events Brooks Pediatric Recreation – Where the Wild Books Are Wednesdays, February 3, 10, 17, 24, 4pm-ages 5-7; 5pm-ages 8 and older Visit the wild world of books with Ms. Laura as she takes your child on a language enriching, thematic journey while developing important literacy skills.

The story time will engage students by modeling reading strategies such as visualization and drawing. This is a virtual 8-week session. All classes will be held through Zoom meetings. Once registered, you will receive the meeting ID and password.

Brooks Rehab / 904-345-7501 / pediatricrecreation@brooksrehab.org / brooksrehab.org Building Champions – Self-Control February 3, 24 5pm to 6pm Open to youth in 6-8th grade (Middle School age.) CARD and FDLRS-MDC Jacksonville are hosting an experiential learning workshop that will focus on developing a positive mindset, while giving students the self-confidence to succeed, a sense of belonging, help them believe in their own mental, social/emotional and physical wellbeing, and have a positive attitude toward work, learning, and being a good friend. As students progress through the lessons, they will also learn and be given a chance to demonstrate critical-thinking skills, self-control and self-discipline, use oral, written and listening skills to express themselves, create positive friendships with other students, and more. Attendance at all sessions is strongly encouraged. Register online. Sessions will be virtual via Zoom.

Jacksonville CARD / 904-633-0760 / audrey.bringman@jax.ufl.edu / pediatrics. med.jax.ufl.edu Morning Moves with Yaz Saturdays, February 6, 13, 20, 27, 9am to 9:45am This “parent-and-me” class will incorporate stretching, yoga, dance, and overall movement activities to focus on strength, coordination, balance, and mindfulness.

For ages 3-5. This is a virtual 6-week session. All classes will be held through Zoom meetings. Once registered, you will receive the meeting ID and password.

Brooks Rehab / 904-345-7501 / pediatricrecreation@brooksrehab.org / brooksrehab.org

Social Skills – Gamegroup February 9, 23, 5pm The CARD/FDLRS-MDC Game Group is a bi-weekly opportunity for quality social interactions with peers. The focus is on social communication, career exploration, everyday life discussions and building meaningful relationships within the group. Prerequisite Requirements: Teens must be between ages of 13-19 years and registered with CARD or FDLRS-MDC, and speak with your CARD/FDLRS-MDC point of contact in order to determine if your teen meets the prerequisite skills needed to partake in this group. All group meetings are now held online via Zoom.

CARD and FDLRS-MDC are discretionary projects of the Florida Department of Education. These grant funded programs do not charge for their services.

Jacksonville CARD / 904-633-0769 / gina.bauer@jax.ufl.edu / pediatrics.med. jax.ufl.edu Kiddin’ Around February 11, 25, 5pm A program which focuses on opportunities for social interaction with peers via board games and card games. Skill areas include: sharing the conversation, waiting, turn taking, giving compliments, accepting feedback, playing games fairly, oversharing of information, and making friends. Register online to participate.

Families register once and can select all dates they wish to attend.

Jacksonville CARD / 904-633-0760 / marlena.jenkins@jax.ufl.edu / pediatrics. med.jax.ufl.edu Sensory Friendly World of Nations Celebration February 26, 9am to 11am During the 29th Annual World of Nations Celebration, special sensory friendly programming will be offered. This will be an opportunity for individuals with sensitivities to processing sensory information such as sound, light, touch, etc., to explore the cultural experiences comfortably. Tickets to World of Nations are available for advance purchase for $5 + tax & fees (ages 3 and under are free). To ensure the health and safety of all guests, participants and staff, COVID-19 mitigation protocols have been implemented.

Tailgaters Parking / 904-630-3690 / 225 Talleyrand Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32202/ specialevents.coj.net​

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

FEBRUARY 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 9

INFANT & TODDLER

Nutrition for Infants and Toddlers

A

s babies grow, their nutritional needs can change quickly. Encourage healthy growth and development by following this quick nutrition guide for infants and toddlers.

Nutrition for infants to age 1

or breastmilk, you should still give your child 16 to 24 ounces of whole milk every day.”

Dr. Sathe also recommends that toddlers eat healthy fats that come from foods such as avocados, peanut butter, full-fat Greek yogurt and hummus with olive oil. These healthy foods support development and provide plenty of nutrients.

Meghana Sathe, M.D., Pediatric Gastroenterologist at Children’s Health and Associate Professor at UT Southwestern, says that until age 1, most of the calories your child conIt’s important to start and keep healthy routines sumes every day should come from breastmilk as your child grows. Try to incorporate the or formula. following into your daily life to help your child develop healthy routines: “If a mom is unable to breastfeed or chooses to use formula, there are many high-quality • Provide three meals and several planned formulas to choose from,” Dr. Sathe says. “But snacks each day the more specialized the formula, the more • Choose foods from all five food groups expensive it may be, and the majority of babies • Eat together as a family do great on standard cow’s milk protein • Encourage exercise and plenty of play formula.” time together • Drink plenty of water daily Dr. Sathe says some babies can have intolerance to milk protein or soy protein formulas, Nutrition for children over age 2 leading to blood in the stool. If your baby has As your child hits age 2 and older, you should this symptom, she recommends you talk to your child’s pediatrician to find a formula your keep encouraging healthy eating habits and model good eating routines for your child. baby can tolerate.

After 6 months of age, most babies are ready to try solid foods. Parents can begin incorporating soft, healthy snacks or jarred baby foods at this age. Consider starting with iron-fortified cereal, soft vegetables and soft or pureed meats. It’s recommended that parents start to incorporate common food allergens into their baby’s diet early on.

Download a chart for more information on what to feed your baby in the first year.

“Sitting down to enjoy a meal together as a family, whether your family consists of two people or six people, encourages young children to form good, healthy habits,” Dr. Sathe says. “As a parent, if you are eating healthy foods and drinking plenty of water, you’re providing good modeling for your child.”

Dr. Sathe encourages parents to avoid giving their children juice, sports drinks and soda.

Instead, children should drink milk and water.

Otherwise, Dr. Sathe says it’s important to provide your child with iron-rich foods, which As your child continues to grow, most of their helps with healthy brain development. There caloric intake will come from food. By the time are many good sources including oily fish, children reach the age of 1, breastmilk or eggs and green, leafy vegetables, blueberries formula may not be a part of their daily and iron-fortified cereal. At this age, each meal nutrition. However, it is still important to ensure should consist of lean protein, whole grains children receive plenty of healthy fats as part and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Healthy of their daily nutrition. “Healthy fats are nutrition will help your child grow and develop important for brain growth and development,” into a healthy adolescent..j says Dr. Sathe. “If you transition from formula childrenshealth.com Nutrition for children between ages 1 to 2

FEBRUARY 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 10

Episcopal Children’s Services Free Child Care Resource & Referral (904) 726-1500 • (800) 238-3463 www.ecs4kids.org Child Care Resource and Referral Services can help your family by providing: • A customized list of local child care options from our trained specialists.

• Information about quality child care and early learning programs • Financial assistance strategies and opportunities • Referrals to other community resources and programs.

Couples Cooking: Valentine’s Day February 4, 6pm This is a hands-on cooking class for adults. The menu includes Grilled Shrimp Cocktail with Key Lime Aioli, Bucatini Carbonara, Grilled NY Strip Steak with Roasted Shallot Jus & Potato Gratin, and Chocolate Flourless Cake. Price is per couple; please add one ticket per couple to the cart. Cost is $100, plus $5.99 fee.

Publix Aprons Cooking School / 904-262-4187 / 10500 San Jose Blvd Ste 36, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www.publix.com Adult Zoom Book Club: Thought Provoking Reads February 6, 10am to 11am Join Donna for an Adult Zoom Book Club featuring a variety of titles sure to spark a discussion.

Choose one of the titles or one of your choosing with a similar theme. Titles include The Book of Lost Friends by Lisa Wingate, Wench by Dolan Perkins Valdez, The Yellow Crocus by Iaila Ibrahim, Washington Black by Esi Edugyan, Never Caught by Erica Armstrong Dunbar, Anna Kingsley by Daniel Shafer, and Daughter of the Daughter of a Queen by Sara Bird. Registration is required.

St. Johns County Public Library / 904-827-6940 / dbraasch@sjcfl.us / sjcpls.org Galentine's Day at Color Me Mine February 12, 6pm to 7:30pm Adults are invited for some Galentine's fun,

Early Learning Coalition North Florida

Helping Children. Helping Families.

From preschool through kindergarten, we make early education and daycare joyful, engaging and fun so children are happy to learn, play and grow!

Now Enrolling for our Flagler Center and River City locations!

whether you're seeing hearts or an anti-Valentine this year. There is a $10 fee to reserve your spot, which will be deducted from the final bill.

The studio fee for all ladies is $5, (regular $9) plus the price of the pottery. The price range for the pottery is from $18 to $50. Feel free to bring your own snacks. Wine is welcome for ages 21 and above. Complimentary chocolates will be given to all participants. Great for a mom's night out.

Color Me Mine / 904-338-9333 / 10300 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / jacksonville. colormemine.com Paint Date at Color Me Mine February 14, 4pm to 6pm Enjoy a quiet adults-only date in the art studio.

There will be cozy, private, seating for couples, and romantic music and atmosphere. Deposit is to reserve your spot for 2 people, and cos will be deducted from the final bill. Reservations include 2 hours of pottery painting time at a reserved and decorated table complete with sweet treats and flowers. Feel free to bring in your own snacks. Complementary Poinsettia cocktails will be served. This is an adult-only event. Covid Policies are in place. Limited spots available. If the event is sold out, contact Color Me Mine to be added to the waiting list for cancellations. Deposit is $15.

Color Me Mine / 904-338-9333 / 10300 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / jacksonville. colormemine.com

Mention Jax4Kids and receive $25 off Registration Fee until 3/31/21!!!

Flagler Center | 12550 Flagler Center Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32258 | (904) 647-6262 | flaglercenter@tlechildcare.com River City | 13144 Wolf Bay Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32218 | (904) 757-7590 | rivercity@tlechildcare.com

FEBRUARY 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 11

INFANT & TODDLER

Building Resilience in Infants and Toddlers R

esilience is the ability to overcome serious hardship. Helping young children build resilience not only helps them deal with the extreme challenges they face today, it will help them develop the skills they need to deal with the changes and challenges they’ll face in adulthood.

Resilient children grow into resilient adults.

An enormous amount of change occurs in the first few years of life. Because of this, strategies for building resilience may be different for infants than they are for toddlers. A strategy that may work for a toddler may not be developmentally appropriate for an infant. However, there are a few strategies that are universal and work well for both infants and toddlers.

The following strategies develop social-emotional skills that BUILD RESILIENCE IN INFANTS: •

•

•

•

•

• • •

•

Be there for them. Be a person who is consistent, reliable, and caring. We want a child to be more independent, but not at the cost of losing trust in a caregiver. A reliable caregiver gives the infant reason to trust other adults.

Give them a chance to help themselves. Even though we want to be reliable caregivers, it doesn’t always serve them to rush in and help as soon as something happens (if it’s not an emergency). If a toy doesn’t work the way an infant wants it to, wait a moment to see if they figure it out themselves.

Teach an infant how to communicate effectively. Verbal communication might not be easy or even possible for most infants. Teach them the baby sign for “help” when caring for them. Sign language is a great way for infants to express their needs.

Expose them to different experiences or activities. Try slightly altering a familiar activity, such as painting, each time to adapt the child to change. A resilient child approaches a new activity with confidence and excitement.

Talk with them about what you’re doing and what they’re doing. For example, “I’m going to change your diaper now. I’m lifting up your legs. You’re looking at me and smiling.”

Respond gently to their needs. When an infant is crying, keep your voice calm and steady, while reassuring them they are safe and okay.

Model patience. For example, if you have a difficult time while dressing a baby, say, “This jacket is hard to unzip. I will keep trying!”

Movement is essential. Make sure there is enough room for an infant to roll, crawl, or scoot around. Holding an infant is great for attachment, but they still need opportunities to get energy out or practice skills such as propping themselves up on a table.

Offer positive words and specific praise.

Reinforce learning through positive comments like, “Ana, you helped me put on your shoe by wiggling your foot. Good job!”

•

Create routines for daily activities. Routines are so important for you and your little ones right now. Reading a story before nap signals that it is almost time to sleep. Infants, especially those who have experienced traumatic events, feel safer with structure.

The following strategies develop social-emotional skills that BUILD RESILIENCE IN TODDLERS: •

•

•

•

• •

•

•

•

•

Let them help others. For example, let them assist with snack, cleaning up toys, or putting on their shoes before going outside. This teaches them that they are valued and instills a sense of confidence.

Let them know it’s okay to ask for help.

Always be open to a child’s request for help.

It’s important to build compassion and confidence by responding to their requests.

Give them a chance to help themselves. As with infants, we want to be reliable caregivers for toddlers. It doesn’t always serve them to rush in and help as soon as something happens, however (if it’s not an emergency).

For example, if a toddler is trying to build with blocks and starts to get upset because their structure falls down, wait a moment. See if they recover and try building again.

Offer opportunities for toddlers to be creative and experiment. Creative activities usually require problem-solving skills. These skills serve them well in all parts of their lives.

Stay close by as they engage in unfamiliar activities. Knowing their safe base is nearby encourages toddlers to explore.

Model that it’s okay to make mistakes. If you spill water when setting out snack, don’t react in a negative way. Simply say, “Uh oh. I need to clean this up now.”

Create and keep routines. Toddlers, just like infants, do well when they know what to expect. Create a visual schedule with pictures for each part of the day and display it at their eye level. But also stay flexible, if a child is showing a need for something different. For example, it might not be snack time yet, but a toddler can exhibit hunger by acting out.

Show them how to do new things. Introduce a new toy or using a spoon to stir during a cooking activity. This helps build confidence and independence.

Reflect on their experiences. Teaching mindfulness to a toddler is easier than it seems. Once a child recovers from a heightened emotional moment, it helps to talk through what they were experiencing at the time.

Exercise calms the mind. Ensure that there are moments throughout the day for toddlers to move and get their energy out. Dancing, climbing, running, and playing instruments are good examples of activities that strengthens the body and the brain.j

lastinger.center.ufl.edu

FEBRUARY 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 12

Things to Do Infant & Toddler Events

Mini Monday at Color Me Mine Mondays, February 1, 8, 15, 22, 12noon to 8pm Mondays are Mini Mondays at Color Me Mine, with $1 studio fees for preschoolers all day. Hours are temporarily modified; Color Me Mine is open 12noon to 8pm.

Color Me Mine / 904-338-9333 / 10300 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / jacksonville.colormemine.com

A limited number of spots are available for students next year. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a free family resource designed for parents, caregivers, and community members.

Duval County Public Schools Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org / dcps.duvalschools.org

MOSH Molecules February 18, 2pm and February 20, 10am, 11:30am, 2pm The Museum of Science & History’s newest early childhood program provides big learning for the youngest guests. Geared for children ages 3, 4 and 5, MOSH Molecules Story Time Art at Doing Dishes Pottery allows you and your child to explore and creStudio ate memories in a safe environment. Each February 2 and 5, 9:30am Class is once a month on Tuesday & Friday at month’s classes will be themed- Animals, 9:30am. Reservations are required. For $18, Space, Science or Art. Program content may include any of the following: reading a book, your child will hear a story and then paint a corresponding piece. This class is designed completing a craft, physical activity, free play, hands-on activity, songs and dance. Classes for you and your child to create Doing Dishes’ scheduled projects together. Smaller chil- will last 45 minutes. dren will need guardians help. This month's Museum of Science and History / 904-396book is "Love Monster" and participants will 6674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org paint a ceramic cube box.

Doing Dishes / 904-730-3729 / 5619 San Virtual Breastfeeding Class Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www.

February 20, 12:30pm to 1:30pm doingdishes.com The class is designed for parents that are planning to breastfeed or need support.

Facebook Event: Live Storytime With Ms. Hosted by Certified Lactation Counselor, Alex Tawanna Nottage, who is also a member of February 3, 17, 10:30am to 11am the Broward County Breastfeeding Coalition.

The St. Johns County Public Library hosts The class will cover the following topics: a special Facebook Live storytime with Ms. Alex from the Southeast Branch Library. Kids How breastfeeding works, Getting the best start, Positions & latching on, How to tell are invited for songs, books, storytime fun, if your baby is getting enough milk, Comand more on the library's Facebook page. mon challenges and how to overcome, and St. Johns County Public Library / 904-827Breastfeeding support. The event is online, 6900 / libse@sjcfl.us / sjcpls.org and is free.

Pediatric Associates / 954-966-8000 / www.

Pediatric Associates Virtual New Parent pediatricassociates.com Class February 16, 6pm Toddler Time at Bravoz Entertainment Designed specifically for expectant parents, Center the free virtual one-hour course covers February 23, 9:30am to 11:30am numerous topics on preparing for your new Bravoz Entertainment Center hosts Toddler arrival, such as your child's development, immunizations, breast vs bottle feeding, and Time on the last Tuesday morning of each month, from 9:30am - 11:30am. During this more.

Pediatric Associates / 954-966-8000 / www. time, the facility is reserved for the exclusive use of kids ages 5 & under. Held Tuesday pediatricassociates.com mornings thru April. One adult is admitted for free with each child’s $8 paid admission.

How to Register for the Voluntary VPK Additional parents/friends can jump for $8.

Lottery A valid waiver & Grip Socks are required for February 16, 5:30pm all participants.

Do you have a child who will be 4 years old by September 1, 2021? If so, view this in- Bravoz Entertainment Center / 904-300formative walk-through of the required steps 0070 / 14985 Old St Augustine Rd, Jacksonnecessary to enter the VPK lottery. Registra- ville, FL 32258 / bravoz.com tion for the lottery ends February 28, 2021.

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

EDUCATION

Black History Month Books Kamala and Maya’s Big Idea

By Meena Harris and Ana Ramirez Gonzalez Inspired by a true story from the childhood of Vice President Kamala Harris.

Kamala and Maya’s Big Idea is a beautiful, empowering picture book about two sisters who work with their community to effect change, inspired by a true story from the childhood of the author’s aunt, Kamala Harris, and mother, lawyer and policy expert Maya Harris.

Schomburg: The Man Who Built a Library

by Carole Boston Weatherford and Eric Velasquez Amid the scholars, poets, authors, and artists of the Harlem Renaissance stood an Afro–Puerto Rican named Arturo Schomburg. This law clerk’s life’s passion was to collect books, letters, music, and art from Africa and the African diaspora and bring to light the achievements of people of African descent through the ages. When Schomburg’s collection became so big it began to overflow his house (and his wife threatened to mutiny), he turned to the New York Public Library, where he created and curated a collection that was the cornerstone of a new Negro Division. A century later, his groundbreaking collection, known as the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, has become a beacon to scholars all over the world.

My Cold Plum Lemon Pie Bluesy Mood

by Tameka Fryer Brown and Shane W. Evans

What color is your mood? On a really good day, Jamie feels purple like the first bite of a juicy cold plum. And with a crayon in his hand, Jamie eases into a green feeling–like a dragon dancing through a jungle made of green jello.

But when his brothers push him around and make fun of his drawings, Jamie feels like a dark gray storm brewing. What will it take to put Jamie back in a bright-feeling mood? Through Jamie, young readers will learn to describe how they’re feeling in a unique way.

Voice of Freedom

by Carole Boston Weatherford and Ekua Holmes Despite fierce prejudice and abuse, even being beaten to within an inch of her life, Fannie Lou Hamer was a champion of civil rights from the 1950s until her death in 1977. Integral to the Freedom Summer of 1964, Ms. Hamer gave a speech at the Democratic National Convention that, despite President Johnson’s interference, aired on national TV news and spurred the nation to support the Freedom Democrats. Featuring vibrant mixed-media art full of intricate detail, Voice of Freedom celebrates Fannie Lou Hamer’s life and legacy with a message of hope, determination, and strength.

Dream Builder: The Story of Architect Philip Freelon

By Kelly Starling Lyons and Laura Freeman Dream Builder: The Story of Architect Philip Freelon celebrates a contemporary black STEAM role model, a man whose quiet work enabled the creation of an iconic building reflecting America's past and future. With a stirring text

by Kelly Starling Lyons, vibrant pictures by Laura Freeman, and an afterword from Philip Freelon himself, it is sure to inspire the next generation of dreamers and builders.

The Secret of Gumbo Grove

By Eleanora E. Tate Raisin Stackhouse doesn’t mind doing odd jobs for old Miss Effie Pfluggins, but when Miss Effie talks her into cleaning up the old church cemetery, she has no idea what trouble she might dig up. Mama says Miss Effie talks much too much, but Raisin loves hearing her remember the old days–especially when one of her stories puts Raisin smack in the middle of real-life mystery.

When Raisin is grounded for sneaking a night out, she not only misses her chance to compete in the Miss Ebony Pageant, but her efforts to uncover the famous person buried in the cemetery are brought to a half, too. Somehow Raisin’s got to solve the big mystery no one in town wants to talk about. Will her discovery bring her glory, or is the past better off left buried?

liberationstationbookstore.com

FEBRUARY 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 13

EDUCATION

EDUCATION

Things to Do Education Events

Chicken Dance Thru May 2021 FSCJ Artist Series - School Performances presents a virtual school time show. Chicken Dance is a full-length, 52-minute video and bonus videos for all ages. Performed by ArtsPower.

Chicken Dance's virtual program includes a full-length performance of Chicken Dance on video, grade-specific Study Buddy educational guide that provides a full complement of literacy-building and visual arts activities for your students, song and dance instructional videos, interviews with the author of the Chicken Dance book and the musical’s set designer, and a Student Gallery page where your students can post their artwork and videos. Cost is $300 per School per Grade Level, $15 per Homeschool Group Household, or $6 per Ticket.

FSCJ / 904-632-5050 / groupsales@fscjartistseries.org / www.fscjartistseries.org

Homeschool Zoocademy February 3-5, In Person Classes February 11-12, Virtual Classes Homeschool Zoocademy at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is designed for students ages 5-12 and covers a wide range of topics in biology, zoology, environmental science, conservation, and more. This year they are offering both virtual and in-person options. Enrollment is month-tomonth, so you can sign up for a combination of virtual and in-person sessions depending on your needs.

Virtual classes are offered for ages 5-12 and explore a different topic each month. Classes will be held using Zoom. Registration is currently open for February, March, and April classes.

Each student participating in Virtual Homeschool Zoocademy must be registered individually; there are no discounts for siblings or multiple members of a household. If registering at the Non-Member price, please note that tuition includes one child admission ticket and one adult admission ticket per class which can be used to visit the Zoo on your own schedule. Cost is Zoo Member $20 and Non-Member $45. In-Person Classes: Students ages 5-12 will explore a different topic each month. Each three-hour class will include lessons, animal encounters, activities and/or projects, and walks through the Zoo. Registration is currently open for February, March, and April classes. Due to COVID-19, the

following changes will be made: Class size will be strictly limited to 10 students each, snack break will be eliminated, students' temperatures will be checked and they must be free of any COVID-like symptoms before they are admitted to class, a liability waiver must be signed for each student before they are admitted to class, and students will be required to bring their own masks and wear them throughout the class session. Cost is Zoo Member $30 and Non-Member $45.

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens / 904-757-4463 / 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218 / www.jacksonvillezoo.org

Understanding 3rd Grade Promotional Requirements February 23, 6pm Gain a better understanding of the third grade Florida Standards Assessment (FSA), promotion requirements, and explore reading standards and strategies to help support students at home.

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

Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org / dcps. duvalschools.org

Managing Anxiety in Gifted Learners February 18, 6pm This course will outline how gifted and high-ability learners with anxiety are impacted in educational settings. Families will be given information and strategies to support their child(ren) including resources from the National Association of Gifted Children. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a family resource designed for parents, caregivers, and community members. All Parent Academy courses are free of charge.

Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org / dcps. duvalschools.org

FUNdamentals of Reading: Grades K-5 February 25, 6pm This course is designed to share fun strategies that can effectively assist a struggling reader in becoming more fluent and confident in their reading abilities. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a family resource designed for parents, caregivers, and community members. All Parent Academy courses are free of charge.

Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org / dcps. duvalschools.org

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

ENROLL NOW & SAVE BIG!

Summer Camp Supervised Activities that teach

WJCT Public Media Launches the TV That Inspires Compassion character strengths and life Marvel’s Hero Project, 2021 PBS Kids Writers Contest D eveloping skills is essential to kids' overall growth Age 10+ and success. These TV shows help kids learn the value of caring about others and behaving toward them with affection, generosity, and concern. The character strength of compassion surfaces in these titles by being intrinsic to the story and being repeated several times in the actions of a lead character, and it "wins" over character flaws such as intolerance.

JCT Public Media has announced the W launch of the 2021 WJCT PBS Kids Writers Contest. The organization will accept entries from January 1 through March 15, 2021.

Starting its 27th year, the annual contest invites students in grades K-3 to submit their original writing and illustrations. The 2020 contest collected over 200 stories from Florida, Georgia, and other parts of the country as far away as California and Alaska.

The annual contest is an initiative designed to promote the advancement of children’s literacy skills through hands-on, active learning and is open to any child in grades K-3 who writes and illustrates their own story.

All writers and illustrators, who enter and meet the requirements of the contest, will have their work published online at wjct.org and receive a certificate. First-, second- and third-place awards will be presented for

Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, Age 3+ Excellent lessons from Mister Rogers' next generation.

PBS Kids stories from each grade level; winners will also receive a WJCT PBS Kids prize pack, the opportunity to create a video reading of their story and an invitation to share their story live at Be My Neighbor Day on Saturday, May 9.

Winning stories will be eligible for the People’s Choice grand prize, a $100 savings bond.

“WJCT Public Media is proud to provide a platform for our youngest neighbors to share their unique stories through the WJCT PBS Kids Writers Contest,” said David McGowan, President and CEO of WJCT. “Through this contest, we hope to inspire students and their communities to experience the joy of creativity.”

For more information, including official rules and tools to help students create their stories, visit wjct.org/writerscontest. j wjct.org

CONFIDENCE, DISIPLINE, and RESPECT! Fun & Safe! Well-Structured!

Learn Karate! TOns of FUN! FEBRUARY 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 14

www.KarateAmerica.info

visit our online

Marvel celebrates the young superheroes walking among us.

Disney+

Educations pages

Andi Mack, Age 10+ Heartwarming, diverse coming-of-age story best for tweens.

Prime Video

' Vampirina, Age 5+ Vivacious vampire girl's adventures promote tolerance.

Disney Junior

Molly of Denali, Age 5+ Alaska Native character's adventures celebrate heritage.

PBS Kids

Gortimer Gibbons Life on Normal Street, Age 7+ Delightful family series with outstanding positive themes.

Prime Video

Zoe Valentine, Age 12+ Thoughtful drama explores serious themes with heart.

YouTube/Brat TV

M*A*S*H, Age 13+ Stellar war dramedy classic mixes humor, pathos.

Hallmark Channel

See the full list at commonsensemedia.org j commonsensemedia.org

FEBRUARY 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 15

area (neighborhood) schools.

•

The School Choice Expo is over. Now What?

The virtual School Choice Expo may be over, but the school choice process continues.

Since the application deadline is not until Feb. 28, families can still research schools, take virtual tours, and speak with school leaders to determine the best school match for their child for the 2021-22 school year.

from schools, learn more about school tour information and contact school leaders. Make sure to create a show planner account – if you haven’t previously done so – to have access to these resources.

•

Below are tips to aid families as they continue the process.

Note: Families looking to enroll their children in VPK must also apply online. Learn more about registering for the 2021-22 VPK lottery.

•

Visit School Match 2021: Missed the School Choice Expo? No problem. Visit School Match 2021 to view recorded presentations

•

•

•

•

Review the 2021-22 School Choice Reference Guide: The guide contains a list of all schools with a snapshot of their special programs and educational offerings. It also walks through the application process, the lottery and important dates.

Know the different types of schools: With some exceptions, traditional schools can be divided into three different categories: magnet schools, special transfer option schools, and attendance

•

new feature, families can go online to schedule an appointment with a school choice specialist. To make an appointment, visit www. duvalschools.org/schoolchoice and click on “Make an Appointment.” Appointments can be made for phone conferencing or in-person meeting. Also, questions can be sent to school_choice@ duvalschools.org. Questions about military transfer option priority can be directed to MilitaryTransferOption@duvalschools.org.

Magnet schools offer a specific focus, theme or career area. For example, Douglas Anderson’s theme is art disciplines while Darnell-Cookman has a medical theme.

Special transfer option schools are non-magnet schools that are outside a student’s attendance zone.

Attendance area schools are the schools within the attendance zone of the student’s primary residence.

Services such as transportation can vary based on the type of school a student is attending. For example, transportation is provided for most magnet programs but not for special transfer option schools. Understanding what category a school falls under may assist with answering questions about its educational options.

•

Remember the deadline: The deadline to submit a school choice application – including VPK — is Sunday, Feb. 28, 2021. The applications are online and available in the parent/guardian focus account.

Reminder – The school choice process is for families wishing to select a school for their children that is not their attendance area school. No action needs to be taken if families wish to have their children attend their attendance area school or keep their children enrolled in their current school of enrollment.

Make an online appointment with School Choice: As a brand

District Expediting Case Reporting on COVID-19 Dashboard Duval County Public Schools adjusted its process for entering new potential COVID-19 cases into the case tracking dashboard beginning Jan. 13, 2021.

ment of Health. The objective in this approach was to ensure those impacted were the first to know of a case.

Cases are now entered at the time the district becomes aware of the case and reports it to the Department of Health. Cases reported on weekends or holidays will be entered and published on the next day of district operations.

Because of the time required for Department of Health case investigations, the district adjusted its process in November to begin posting cases on the dashboard once the Department of Health confirmed the case and began the contact tracing and case investigation.

By entering the cases into the dashboard at the time the district reports the case to the Department of Health, families and the community will see the cases earlier and will be aware of cases impacting members of the school community, regardless of whether the Department of Health initiates contact tracing at the school. Under Florida statute, the Department of Health is responsible for determining if contact tracing needs to occur and for conducting that case investigation.

Background: This is the second modification the district has made to its process for notifying families and the community of cases impacting schools.

At the beginning of the school year, the district entered data based on the confirmation of a case and the conclusion of a case investigation by the Depart-

FEBRUARY 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 16

Also in November, to expedite the overall process, the district implemented a procedure for schools to collect and transmit test results from students and staff to verify reports of positive cases before sending the information to the Department of Health.

The district’s goal since the beginning of the school year has been to provide families with a clear understanding of how the pandemic is impacting school buildings. The district’s experience over the first half of the school year demonstrates that this new process will better enable the district to achieve that goal.

Duval Graduation Rates Increase in the Era of COVID Philanthropy Bridges Digital Divide for Long Branch Families Since COVID-19 disrupted schools in March, access to web-based school resources has become essential for students. This is especially true for schools like Long Branch Elementary, a Title I school on Jacksonville’s Eastside.

“Many of our parents don’t have internet access,” said Long Branch Elementary School Principal Wayman Graham. “This can negatively impact our students because they don’t have access to educational resources at home. We know that at-home learning is a huge part of a child’s academic success.”

Representatives of the Ball Family Fund recognized this need and worked through The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida and Duval County Public Schools to fund hot spots and internet access for 100 low-income families for up to two years. The families receiving the support have children attending schools like Long Branch, a school that is home to more than 250 students, all of whom meet federal income requirements for free and reduced lunch.

Deputy Superintendent Dr. Dana Kriznar, who works to develop community relationships to support schools, said these partnerships help promote greater equity across the district.

“While the district has met the needs of students on an as-needed basis, those without permanent access to the internet are at a disadvantage

compared to their more highly connected peers,” said Dr. Kriznar. “We are extremely thankful to the Ball family and to The Community Foundation for this grant which will help promote achievement for the children and greater engagement between the caregivers and their schools.”

Graham said partnerships like these are vital in our schools today as internet connectivity is becoming more essential to the educational experience.

“Programs like Focus, i-Ready, Freckle, and Khan Academy are all online learning tools for both parents and students that require a reliable internet connection,” said Graham.

“The support from the Ball Family Fund could not have come at a better time. Thanks to the support of our community, we can improve student achievement by improving access to learning resources.”

Long Branch was chosen as a school to benefit from this grant because it is among a cluster of schools on the Eastside that is the focus of LIFT JAX, an initiative of business and community leaders working to eradicate generational poverty in Jacksonville. Earlier this year, LIFT JAX provided laptops for several families at Long Branch and Matthew W. Gilbert Middle School through funding provided by Florida Blue.

Duval’s Class of 2020 earned a record-high graduation rate of 90.2 percent according to graduation data released by the Florida Department of Education today.

While the upward trajectory was not a surprise – as this continues a 10-year trend for Duval County Public Schools – the 3.7 percentage point jump from last year’s record is partially attributable to COVID-19 related changes.

That is because some state assessments – typically a graduation requirement – were waived for the 2019-20 school year, giving school districts across Florida a lift.

Statewide, approximately 7.1 percent of the 2019-20 graduating class utilized this exemption. In Duval County, 6.1 percent of students in traditional schools and 18.1 percent of charter students used the state assessment exemption.

How much impact this had on Duval’s rate is difficult to calculate, said Duval superintendent Dr. Diana Greene. However, that should not diminish Team Duval’s pride in this victory during these unprecedented times.

“Point by point, our graduation rate has been steadily increasing every year since 2012,” said Dr. Greene.

“There’s no doubt that the work put in – from our pre-kindergarten teachers all the way to our senior graduation coaches – had a significant impact on our historically-high rate. The waived assessments propelled us in a direction we were already heading.”

“There is much to be proud of for our Class of 2020 students and all our educators,” said Corey Wright, assistant superintendent of data and assessment. “They faced unprecedented challenges in the final few months of their high school career, including trying to adapt to a new way of learn-

ing amid a global pandemic.”

With state assessments back in place for this year’s graduating class, Wright believes the class of 2021’s graduation rates may dip below this year’s rate. But the overall upward trajectory will continue.

“While we certainly feel this is cause to celebrate, comparing this year to future years will be difficult due to the COVID-19 impacts,” said Wright.

“Pandemic or no pandemic, our main goal is to continue ensuring we are equipping students every day with the tools they need to be academically successful and prepared for life after high school.”

Highlights from Duval’s 2019-20 graduation rate data are as follows: •

Overall graduation rate increased to 90.2 percent, a 3.7 percentage point increase from the previous year, and a 26.9 percentage point increase over the last 10 years.

•

The 26.9 percentage point increase exceeds the state’s rate of improvement of 19.4 percentage points.

•

The gap between the state and district narrowed from 6.8 percentage points in 2011-12 to Duval County surpassing the state by 0.2 percentage points for the 2019-20 school year.

•

Record high subgroup data was seen among African American, Hispanic, ELL, ESE, and Low SES students.

Additionally, all 21 traditional high schools exceeded the 90 percent graduation for the first time. Schools with substantial growth include Robert E. Lee (+6.39 percentage points); Ed White (+5.88 percentage points); and Wolfson (+3.74 percentage points).

FEBRUARY 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 17

business and spending time with her husband life-long learners for success in a global and and two children. competitive workplace.

"I am incredibly honored to have been chosen Administrative eduas Clay County'sOpportunities: 2021 Teacher ofGreat the Year. cational leaders are vital to our future, and Every year, but this school year especially, although seeing students succeed can be to its our teachers have stepped up to the plate own many people looking for ways tacklereward, the challenges in theare current educationto grow professionally without the satal climate.

The enthusiasm thatlosing our educators isfaction of influencing young minds.

A school and students bring to the virtual and in person administration career is one such path.

Like classroom during this unprecedented time is teachers, school are for essential unmatched.

I am administrators ready to advocate the to the success of their and districts, teaching profession andschools to represent such an inspiring group Clay of County educators, and they never loseofsight the goal: providing administrators, andtostudents,” said Grybb. the best education their students.

a lasting impact on students. It is a privilege in compliance with Federal and State Laws to be a Bronco and I am so lucky to be able regarding nondiscrimination preference. to help students achieve theirand goals," said Individuals with disabilities are encouraged Weiskopf. to apply. Any person who believes he or she may reasonable during “Mrs.need Grybb and Mrs. accommodations Weiskopf are exemplary the testing or interview process roleapplication, models of the education profession.

Their should notifytothe dedication theappropriate students of department Clay County or is school in advance. evidentoffice and their impact is long-standing at their respective schools, among their peers, Contact Information and, of course, with the students that they serve. They will act as wonderful representaHuman tives forResources Clay CountyDepartment at the state level and I 900 Street wishWalnut them the best of luck,” said SuperintenGreen Cove Broskie.

Springs, FL 32043 dent David Phone: 904-336-6706 Fax: 904-336-6556

Visit the School District Clay County Florida YouTube channel to watch the moments Jen and Janice found outTuesday, about February 2 Spelling Bee the announce6pm – 9pm Lake Asbury Junior High School Cafeteria ment!

February Calendar

Regular School Board Meeting Teacher Training Center, Fleming Island High School, Village Square Parkway Friday, February 12 End of Second Grading Period (45 Days), Early Dismissal Monday, February 15 Presidents’ Day, Student/Teacher Holiday Friday, February 19 Interim Reports to Parents access to your tips to make sure FortifyFL is a suspicious activity reporting tool Saturday, February 27 Track also Meethave – 6th Grade proper steps are taken. that allows you to instantly relay information 7pm 8:30pm agencies and Ridgeview High School to appropriate law–enforcement

December Calendar

Thursday, February 4 6pm – 9pm

Fortify Florida: Suspicious

December 4 – Interim Reports Connect with us!

Activity Reporting App December 10, 6pm – 9pm – Regular School Board Meeting, Teacher Training Center, Connect with us!

Fleming Island High School, Village Square Parkway school officials.

FortifyFL was created and funded by the 2018 December 23 – January 3 – Christmas/New Year’s Break, Student/Teacher Holiday Florida Legislature as part of the Marjory

December Calendar

December 4 – Interim Reports December 10, 6pm – 9pm – Regular School Board Meeting, Teacher Training Center, Fleming Island High School, Village Square Parkway December 23 – January 3 – Christmas/New Year’s Break, Student/Teacher Holiday

By accessing FortifyFL, students can provide a description of the threat, share pics and videos and optionally submit their contact information.

Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act. The application was named by students from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.

The Office of Attorney General, Department of Education and Florida Department of Law Enforcement coordinated its development and roll-out.

www.oneclay.net OP/Middleburg (904) 272-8100 • Green Cove Springs (904) 284-6500 The tip report goes to your local school www.oneclay.net officials when• submitted, your (904) local police 284-6584 Keystone Heights (888) 663-2529 TDD OP/Middleburg (904) 272-8100 • Green Cove Springs (904) 284-6500 Keystone Heights (888) 663-2529 • TDD (904) 284-6584

FEBRUARY 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 18

department or sheriff office receive copies of your tips automatically, and state-level officials Download on the App Store or Google Play.

CITIZENSHIP

The Jim Harbin Student Media Festival is a student-driven program where students create media presentations from idea, to storyboard, to production, to presentation. Students INK!'s (Investingtoindesign Kids) 2020-2021 Teacher work creatively and produce a of the Year awards campaign media forum for their messageculminated and compete on January with 27 with a special state-wide students fromrecognition each county in program, along with honors, and Florida. The culminating evenfestivities, is a red-carpet aaffair tribute to Alicia “Ali” Pressel, afor teacher at the Florida Association Mediaatin Creekside School whoConference. was namedThe as the Education’sHigh (FAME) Annual formal winner among teacher finalists from St. experience is one of the most rewarding of the Johns County, Fla. public schools.

community business partners to bring grant opportunities, internThe Jim Harbin has ships,Student and job Media shadowFestival experiences been around for students 45+ years!

It was Jim to her to promote career Harbin's vision and is FAME's vision to teach, readiness. encourage and recognize Florida's student media producers.

Studentspeaker filmmakers learn She is a regular on projmany valuable lessons from equipment ect-based learning and STEM usage ini& care toatcopyright laws to protect artists like tiatives national conferences.

In addition to themselves.

They celebrate the learning and serving on the Teacher Advisory Council with creativity of Florida's young artists. the National Geographic Society, Pressel was recently named a 2020 National Geographic Watch Sophia’s video St. integrating Johns County Emerging Explorer for on herthe work School District website! mapping software and “place-based learning” within the environmental science career academy program at Creekside. Pressel resides in Jacksonville, Fla. teaching history at BKA (Brother Keeper “I am honored andSchool) humbled to receive such Academy Charter which was founded an amazing distinction.

We have an exceptionby his brother, Pastor Coleman. al group of educators in St. Johns County and instrumental in starting SJ-each itTony is awas privilege to collaborate with the them SO’s first Dolphins footballyear and has cheer day,” saidlocal Pressel.

“The school been programs which haveways. served of challenging in many Yet,hundreds it has provided students the Hastings, Flagler Estates, us with a inunique opportunity to reflect onArmstrong and West St Augustine areas. our teaching practices and think about our relationships with our students.

And itservice, reminds Throughout Tony’s 30 years of public us what matters most of is awards. to help students he that has received a number Among truly in theirare own theseengage recognitions thelearning highest experiencaward given es,” sheSt.said. by the Johns County, the Guy White Award, in addition to the Learning Legacy Award, Pressel a new vehicle which iswon the highest award from givenBeaver by the Toyota SuSt. Augustine,ofa Schools. new laptop computer perintendent Other awardsfrom include Staples St. Year, Augustine, as wellofasJuvenile gifts and Officer ofinthe Department prizes, alland finalists were presented with Justiceand (DJJ) the Meritorious Service to diamond list a few.stud earrings and jewelry, among

CARING

dent Media Festival!

FAIRNESS

St. Johns County

RESPONSIBILITY

Clay County School News

County's 2021 Assistant Principal of the Year.

Visit the School District Clay County Florida YouTube channel to watch School District News the moments Jen and2020 JaniceHarbin 2021 Teacher of the Year Jim Student Media Fairness CHARACTER COUNTS! found out about • Play byitems the rules Sciences, and Advanced Placement additional from sponsors. Pressel will • Take turns and share (AP) Environmental Science.

She have the opportunity to apply for the overall Festival Winner sponsors the Environmental Club Florida the announce• Be Teacher open-minded; listenprogram. to others Also, finalist Andrea M. O'Brien, is a pre-kinof the Year dergarten through fifth grade library media Congratulations to Switzerland Point Middle students' and academic career. Students • Don’t take advantage of others the Geospatial Mappingcompete Club at specialist at Durbin Creek Elementary School student Sophia Goral for her first place at three different levels: middle, ment! School Don’t blame others Creekside and elementary, works with multiple On• January 6, INK! boardcarelessly members, staff and with more than 19 years of teaching exstate-wide win in the annual Jim Harbin Stuand high.

RESPECT

tal status, age, national origin or disability.

Employment of personnel in Clay County is in compliance with Federal and State Laws regarding nondiscrimination and preference.

Individuals with disabilities are encouraged Administrative Opportunities: Great eduto apply. Any person who believes he or she Clay County - 2021 GED ESOL accommodations Registration cational leaders Names are vital to2020 our future, and Now Hiring Instructional and may need& reasonable during Take Stock in Children Teacher of the Year and Schoolalthough seeing students succeed canNow be its Support Positions, Apply Now Open the testing interview process When youapplication, are thinking about giving, consider theor gift of time, talent and your experience!

Related Employee of the Year Registration for Clay County Adult & Comclasses. ownyoureward, many looking for The ways Whether are starting your career orpeople you Non are Instructional Opportunities: depart- Take should notify the appropriate department or munity isastill available!

Day and program Stock inEducation Children, state-wide mentoring low-income publicinschool • for ESOL will be offered person only. are experienced professional, theofSchool ment of Non-instructional Personnel Services Clayan County announced the winners The winning school-related employee, Rhievening options are available, visit oneclay. students, is in need of adult mentors in Clay County. to grow professionally without losing the sat-tech District a wide serves School of Clay County by • You must have your payment ready school office its 2020of- Clay 2021County Teachercan of offer the Year and range annon the Weiskopf, isDistrict currently the media net/ace to register.

Adultin andadvance.

Community of rewarding careers, as well as Year support to seeking qualified applicants forWeiskopf the before begin the is registration School-Related Employee of the awards assistanthighly at Middleburg High School.

Education willand ONLY accept online regisAfter the training application process is completed, the time you commitment approxi- form. isfaction influencing minds.

A School school help you grow.

Visitaof oneclay.net to explore the young variety of employment within on January 28 via virtual ceremony. is a former Middleburgopportunities High graduate trations and per payments and ESOLduring the mately one hour week infora GED public school • regular You willschool need year. to e-mail a copy of your different types of positions with the district. their system to provide a diverse, who school has come backand to serve.

She has been courses. You will also need to pay the $30 ID to: ACEregistrations@myoneclay.net. administration path.

Like Contact Information The winning teacher is Meghancareer Grybb, who isis one with Claysuch County District Schools for six years. Interested? well-qualified workforce who are dedicated tuition fee Callonline.

(904) 272-8144 or go to www.takestockinchildren.org for will more information.

Your registration NOT be processed currently an Extended Studies The (gifted) teacher Instructional Opportunities: department leads the cheerleading program toWeiskopf the realization of the full potential of all without your Identification. teachers, school administrators are essential at Lakeside Elementary School.

Grybb is from of Instructional Personnel Services serves the employees. and is the head coach for Middleburg High’s The mission of Adult & Community EducaDexter, District Michigan, and received herfocusing Bachelors School of Clay County by their Varsity and Competition cheerleading teams.

• IfAssistant you are required to test, you must 2021 and tion programPrincipal is to assist students, of ages Human Resources Department of Science in success Education from the University to the of and districts, She is also the assistant coachtooffind the open girls efforts on the recruitment, hiring andtheir retentionschools Interested?

Go to oneclay.net come into the office in person by ap16 and above, in their pursuit of academic of aMichigan while scholarship forinstructionsoftball. weightlifting is a formerjob flagdescripfootball Principal of the Year of diversified andonhighly qualified positions and team onlineand applications, pointment.

You will receive a phone call and vocational excellence and, in conjunc900 Walnut Street She haswhose taught for 16 years at Lakeside assistant.

Weiskopf is the director ofand theother Miss and they never lose sight of the goal: providing al staff mission is to provide students tions, completely salary schedules, to schedule your testing appointment. tion with the community, the development of Elementary for 15 years as an English resources Middleburg pageant as well as plans several with learningSchool, opportunities that are rigorous, you may need.

Announced life skills.

If you were previously dropped from online Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 Language Artstranscend teacher for 4th and grade otherstudents. activities to honor students. If she’s not the best education to their relevant and beyond the5th boundaries classes due to lack of participation, you before becoming an Extended Studies teacher. Equal at Middleburg High Employer: School, sheThe is with her Opportunity School of the classroom.

Congratulations toUpdates Green Cove Springs Junior Registration CANNOT register for online this term.

You Grybb has coached softball at Orange Park Phone: 904-336-6706 husband, Chase, and their daughters, District of Clay County is antwo Equal OpportuHigh Principal Jen Halter, Clay County's 2021 can choose in person only.

High School and Ridgeview High School and Riley and Callie.

Human Resources: The Human Resources nity Employer. They do not discriminate on Principal the Year,Students and to Orange Park Junior • of ABE/GED can choose has taught private pitching lessons for the basis of race, religion, color, sex, mariFax: 904-336-6556 Department strivessoftball to provide the necessary High Assistant Principal Janiceclasses Tucker,orClay traditional in person online 18 years.

When she is not on the field or in the "I am so honored to receive this recognition.

I human resourcesConnect and organizationalwith culture us! tal status, age, national origin or disability.

County's 2021 Assistant Principal of the Year. classroom, she is working on her custom art love Middleburg High School and want to have to support the District in its vision to prepare Employment of personnel in Clay County is

TRUSTWORTHINESS

human resources and organizational culture to support the District in its vision to prepare life-long learners for success in a global and competitive workplace.

volunteers, with Superintendent Forson • Treat allalong people fairly perience. She holds numerous honors and and officials visited schools and recognized Responsibility awards for instructional delivery, teacher the• finalist teachers as for their outstanding Do what you are supposed to do of the year in elementary education, head demonstration of instructional skills, student • Plan ahead coach for students in reading with the Battle interaction, professional excellence, and im• Persevere: keep on trying! of the Books team, and promoting books in portance in the lives of hundreds of students.

• St. Always doCounty your best school and home, among others. According to The Johns Education Foundation, • Use self-control O’Brien, her philosophy about teaching is to which operates as INK! and a group of pan• Beinterviewed self-disciplined make sure that each student knows that she elists nominees who have moreOHNS OUNTY CHOOL for books, ISTRICT loves them and their appreciation • Think youprofessional act — consider the consequences than three before years as educators in reading, and to create a strong bond between Be accountable for your words, actions, and attitudes the• classroom. herself and her students. She uses a school• Set a good example for others wide management program set up to focus on Finalist recipients included Allison Birbal, a Citizenship rewarding general positive behaviors overall sixth-grade science teacher at R.J. Murray • Do your share to make your school and community better and activities related to the library.

Middle School with more than 10 years of ex• Cooperate perience as an educator.

Birbal affairs has presented • Get involved in community at various conferences including the Southern She recently received a grant for a Book Vend• Stay Education informed; vote ing Machine in order to support the initiative, Regional Board “High Schools That • Beconference a good neighbor from Community First Cares Foundation and Work” as a featured presenter.

• Obey laws and been rules named Teacher of the INK! (Investing in Kids). O’Brien believes that She has previously • Respect authority Year at R.J. Murray Middle School and Pacetti kindness and positive reinforcement will inspire a mutual feeling of acceptance and • Middle Protect School. the environment Bay Birbal’s teaching philosorespect to promote a positive learning enviphy includes when a child’s well-being takes • Volunteer ronment. She resides in St. Augustine, Fla. precedent, Respecteducational success will follow.

She added, students must view school as a • Treat others with respect; follow the Golden Rule According to Donna Lueders, INK!’s Executive second home where they feel cared for, safe, • Be tolerant and accepting of differences Director, another important announcement and loved.

Birbal believes learning cannot • Use good manners, not bad language included naming Lauren Woods, a teacher at begin, especially during a global pandemic, • Be considerate of basic the feelings Valley Ridge Academy, as Rookie Teacher of without these specific needs of to others be met • Don’t or hurt anyonewho the Year. Lueders added, the importance of the first.

Birbalthreaten, is an avidhit, STEM educator • Dealthat peacefully with anger, through insults, and countywide awards program builds commubelieves teaching students the disagreements nity awareness of the region’s best educators.

Caring interconnected disciplines of science, techLueders and her team of professionals provide • Be engineering kind nology, and mathematics opens innovative programs, services, and classroom doors them that were previously • Beforcompassionate and show youclosed, care resources to support academic success for all and sparks a sense of curiosity in all children.

• Express gratitude St. Johns County public schools.

She resides in St. Augustine, Fla. • Forgive others Follow us on Twitter • Help people in need @StJohnsCountySD • Be charitable and altruistic Trustworthiness • Be honest • Don’t deceive, cheat, or steal • Be reliable – do what you say you’ll do • Have the courage to do the right thing • Build a good reputation Connect on Facebook Monday, February 15, 2021 Holiday @St Johns County • Be loyal – stand by your family, friends,Presidents’ and countryDay – Student/Teacher

ST. J

C

S

D

New School Board Member Sworn In Fortify Florida: Suspicious December Activity Reporting App Character Counts Pillar: During the event, Tim Forson, St. Johns County Superintendent of was Schools, spoke consworn in asand a newly Anthony Coleman gratulated Pressel and all finalists.

Additional elected member of the St. Johns County presentations included honored School Board during thePressel Schooland Board’s educators with their families, friends, and Reorganization Meeting Novemberceremo17th. students who joined the on recognition Coleman replaces Board Member Tommy ny held at school2.district headquarters, 40Allen serving District Orange Street in St. Augustine, Fla. Anthony “Tony” Coleman was born in Palatka, grew up of in the Hastings.

While livingfor AFlorida virtualand production event ran online there, who Tonyregistered attended Hastings Elementary those to view the video which School. Later, he entered Hastings High school, included teacher and student interviews, where hededications, played football and competed inand musical acknowledgements, trackleadership & field. Tony excelled in sports and INK! team members who produced became high school star athlete. In fact, he the show,a among others. went on to represent St. Johns County as its first-everhas champion in the state of Florida for Pressel been teaching at Creekside High the track & field 100-yard dash. After gradSchool since 2008.

She teaches four levels uating the in 1983, Tony County earned Career a scholarship within St. Johns Acadefor track & fieldthe at Edward College in mies program, AcademyWaters of Environmental Jacksonville, Florida. Sometime later, Tony earned state certification in Law Enforcement and Correction from First Coast Technical College. Anthony has an associate degree from Vincennes University.

In 1986, Anthony started his career in law enforcement with the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office before joining the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office in April of 1988, as a patrol officer. During his time with SJSO, Anthony worked in both Patrol and Community-Oriented Policing (COP) before moving over to the Youth Resource Deputy (YRD) section. Anthony worked as a YRD for the Gaines Alternative Center, Murray Middle, Pedro Menendez High School as well as several of the district elementary schools. He also spent one-year

FortifyFL is a suspicious activity reporting tool that allows you to instantly relay information to appropriate law enforcement agencies and school officials.

also have access to your tips to make All sure proper steps are taken.

Pillars

FortifyFL was created and funded by the 2018 Florida Legislature as part of the Marjory By accessing FortifyFL, studentsTony can provide a Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety serves in a number of civic duties. He is currentlyand an adviser to Hastings Youth Acad-The application was named by students description of the threat, share pics videos Act. emy, and previously was the pastCaring co-chair of February Character Counts Pillar: the 7th Circuit Department of Juvenile Justice St. Johns County and optionally submit their contact informa(DJJ). He served as the past Board from President Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. for the Hope Pavilion Group Home in Hastings.

February 2021 School Calendar tion.

HeCaring is a Minister at the Lord TempleThe City of Office of Attorney General, Department Refuge Ministries and currently serves as a ofSJSO. Education and Florida Department of Law • Beofkind member the Chaplain Corps for the • Be compassionate and show you is married to Cherl, and they are proud care Monday, February 8, 2021its Interims Issued Enforcement coordinated development andSchool District The tip report goes to your local Tony ofschool theirExpress six children, who have graduated from • gratitude Putnam and St Johns Tony • Forgive othersCounty Districts.

Schools have resumed Early Release as normal – All Schools participate in a weekly roll-out. officials when submitted, your local police and Cherl have 14 grandchildren. Tony enjoys St. Johns County December 2020 School Calendar • Help people in need early release on Wednesday: Elementary @1:45, Middle @12:50, High @ 2:50 mentoring kids, coaching girls Rec basketball, and high school football.

• Be charitable and altruistic department or sheriff office receive copies of December 21, 2020 – January 1, 2021..............Winter Break – Student/Teacher Holiday your tips automatically, and state-level officials Download on the App Store or Google Play.

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

FEBRUARY 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 19

Things to Do

TEENS

Vaping Gets Ugly

V

aping is a serious issue that comes with a whole host of issues. This new form of nicotine has proven to be a problem, particularly in adolescents. That’s why the City of Jacksonville launched “Vaping Gets Ugly”: a campaign dedicated to discouraging teens from vaping and informing them about the negative side effects it has.

What is Vaping?

Vaping starts with a chemical-filled liquid, usually with a catchy name. You stick it inside an e-cigarette device that boils it, and then you suck down the gas. E-cigarettes, or e-cigs, are small devices that generate the high temperatures needed to turn vape juice into an aerosol so you can inhale the chemical mist.

Memory Loss & Attention Deficit: Your brain continues developing until you are about 25 years old. Thanks to the nicotine, formaldehyde, lead and other chemicals commonly found in vape mist, vaping changes brain cell activity in the parts of your brain responsible for memory, attention and learning. Literally, the more you vape the less your brain can cope with life, and the less it can accomplish in the future.

Bloating: We know that not all vape juice ingredients are safe and that many cause real harm. What you may not know is that vaping involves boiling and inhaling ingredients like glycerol, which leads to bloating, cramps, indigestion and worse.

The same goes for many of the vape flavorings. The more hits, the worse the bloat.

For young people, vaping can seem like a Basically, your body is telling you that these harmless thing to do with friends, but every chemicals are not your friend. single hit is filled with chemicals that do nasty stuff. Young vapers are uniquely Addiction: It takes less than 10 seconds vulnerable to these chemical effects for nicotine to reach your brain with that because their bodies and brains are still "nic hit." But after just a few vapes that developing and change rapidly. Vaping same nicotine actually lowers your ability to chemicals can disrupt the complex and feel pleasure, so you need more to get the vital processes happening in young minds. same effect. This is how addiction works: your brain is re-wired to demand that hit, This means diarrhea, bloating, nausea, pushing you to vape more frequently. More anxiety and a brain that just doesn’t work than 98% of vape juices contain =nicotine the way it should.

- and the nicotine amounts in those juices have more than doubled in the last five Vaping Side Effects years. Vaping is not about fun flavors, it's Anxiety Disorders: Developing adolescent about using a drug that immediately harms bodies and brains. brains are already more vulnerable to anxiety and mood issues. Nicotine, found in Organ Damage: It's not a mystery or a more than 98% of vape juices, makes secret: vaping is an unhealthy cocktail of young people more anxious now, keeps them anxious for longer, and makes dealing nasty chemicals by any standard. Users suck in clouds of nicotine, formaldehyde, with anxiety disorders more difficult. heavy metal particles, diacetyl, glycerol, Nicotine is so bad for us that it starts to ethanol, volatile organic compounds, damage young brains after just one hit. acrolein and more. If you vape, you're damaging your gums, your lungs, your Nausea & Vomiting: The chemicals used blood vessels, your brain and your heart. to add flavor to vape juices often make people feel sick and even throw up. Even if Visit vapinggetsugly.com more information you avoid the more than 7,000 flavored on teen vaping and how to prevent it. j vape juices out there you’re not safe. The glycerol/glycerin that can make up 50% of that liquid causes nausea and vomiting, vapinggetsugly.com while nicotine is known to make people “nic sick.” These chemicals damage your body, and that damage can linger long after you stop feeling sick.

FEBRUARY 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 20

Teen Events

Zoom Event: Teen Book Club Thursdays, February 4, 11, 18, 25, 3:30 Join Ms. Nicole for a Zoom teen book club (Grades 7 and up) for this month’s pick, Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi. Although the book club cannot meet in person, teens can still make new friends and have good discussions. Books are provided by the Friends of the Anastasia Island Library to the first 8 students who sign up.

St. Johns County Public Library / 904-209-3730 / njebbia@sjcfl.us / www.sjcpls.org YouthQuake Live February 5, 8pm YouthQuake Live returns to in person events. The Uncommon Tour features skits, live music, dance performances, teen cast members, and more. To comply with COVD-19 guidelines, masks are to be worn, and social distancing is to be observed.

YouthQuake Live offers reserved seating for all events; for this season they are waving the fee and offering reserved seats free of charge to help families and youth groups with social distancing.

Reserved seating does not necessarily mean front row. Location of your seats is dependent on the event and the church layout. Please check-in with the YQL volunteers the night of the event by 7:50pm – seats will be released after this time.

The deadline to reserve seats is Tuesday at 1pm of event week.

The Potters House / 5119 Normandy Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32205 / youthquakelive.com The Admission Game Webinar February 10, 6pm Do you ever wonder who “gets in” to college and why? “The Admission Game” takes you inside the admission process for the answers. TAG is a high-energy, high-impact, interactive case-study exercise for students and parents in which you’ll be transformed into a member of an admission committee. In a manner that is more theater than lecture, college admissions veteran Peter Van Buskirk will engage you immediately in a “conversation” by talking with you in relevant terms that help ease the stress of an otherwise frenzied process. This signature program reveals the “hidden agendas” of colleges and provides insight into how decisions are made. Your child will learn to find the colleges that fit them best and to make decisions that help them compete for admission. This is a virtual event.

Revolution Prep / 877-738-7737 / answers@ revolutionprep.com / www.revolutionprep.com FAFSA Frenzy February 15, 16, 18, 6pm to 8pm St. Johns River State College will present “FASFA Frenzy,” at three locations. The event will provide free assistance to families applying for college financial aid. The events at each campus are held from 6pm to 8pm, with the last session beginning at 7:30pm. During the event, current and

potential students can participate in free step-bystep instructions for completing and submitting the FAFSA, along with the Florida Financial Aid Application. Computers will be provided. There will also be financial aid presentations. Masks are required. Attendees must also complete a health assessment questionnaire upon arrival.

Social distancing will be observed with 6 feet apart between students and those assisting in the event. Stations will be cleaned after each use. A list of documents needed to complete the FAFSA are available online.

February 15-Palatka Campus; February 16-Orange Park Campus; February 18-St. Augustine Campus St. Johns River State College / 904-276-6800 / www.sjrstate.edu Palatka Campus / 5001 St Johns Ave, Palatka, FL 32177 Orange Park Campus / 283 College Dr, Orange Park, FL 32065 St. Augustine Campus / 2990 College Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084 Graduation Requirements February 18, 7pm This course will provide high school parents/ caregivers/students with information regarding graduation requirements to obtain a high school diploma. Families are encouraged to watch this course together. Free and open to the community, as part of the Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools. The Parent Academy is a free family resource that promotes parental involvement, enhances student achievement and supports a caregiver's need for personal and individual growth.

Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org / dcps. duvalschools.org BigFuture Days February 23, 5pm to 9pm College Board is hosting virtual events for high school students to connect directly with college admissions representatives and take action on the most important steps for college. Students can explore colleges in a way that’s not overwhelming, and show them you're interested; take action on key college planning steps like searching for colleges and exploring careers and majors; listen, learn, and participate in live Q&A and online chat with admissions representatives and current students who have been through it all; and download college planning resources, and drop in with questions for a college adviser.

You can attend any event and more than one.

Sessions are free and held online. This event is meant for high school sophomores and juniors, but younger and older students are welcome.

They also encourage parents/guardians to join along with their students. Registration is for students only. Parents will receive separate log-in information when their child registers.

College Board / 866-392-4088 / www.collegeboard.org

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

Things to Do

PETS

DNA Tests For Pets I f you're one of the millions of Americans who owns a rescue dog, you may be curious about what breed your best friend is. Increasingly, pet owners are buying DNA testing kits to try to figure out their dog's ancestry. But the promise of these kits may be getting ahead of the science, according to some geneticists and animal researchers.

For dog owners, the appeal of such tests is that knowing more about the breed could give them insights into how to handle their dog's quirks. Angela Hughes, a veterinary geneticist with Mars Petcare, which makes one of the dozen or so DNA testing kits on the market, says it's about understanding your dog's behavior: "What makes them tick? Why do they look the way they do? Why do they act the way they do?"

The Wisdom Panel, the DNA test made by Mars Petcare, tests for over 350 breeds going back to the "great-grandparent level," explains Hughes. It examines the DNA from the dog's cells for thousands of genetic markers and compares it to the company's large breed database to calculate the "best match" in terms of breed.

The test can analyze over 20 genetic traits, and Hughes cites as evidence of its accuracy that it can often precisely predict coat color patterns and body traits like ear erectness, leg length and weight..

Though it certainly makes a fun conversation-starter in the dog park, some experts warn these tests should be taken with a grain of salt. "It's hard to know how accurate they are," says Lisa Moses, a veterinarian and a researcher with Harvard Medical School Center for Bioethics. "Different test companies use different methodologies as far as we know."

From a practical point of view, bioethicist Moses worries there are risks to potentially inaccurate breed determination, especially if the breed comes back as a potentially problematic dog, like a pit bull.

"Once you have given away your dog's DNA and some company has the results, you may not have control over what happens to that information," she says. There could be issues with prejudices and actual discrimination against certain breeds of dogs that might impact things like people's housing and their

ability to get insurance, says Moses. "So you may want to think twice about doing a test for that reason."

Many of the DNA tests also offer to provide information about genetic risks for potential health problems. This could be helpful for dog owners because some breeds are more susceptible to certain conditions, says Hughes.

They might have an increased risk of a bleeding disorder or of a heart condition or cancer, she says. And knowing that can impact how the veterinarian cares for your pet. But Moses says DNA testing for potential health conditions can be highly problematic. She says the tests just aren't that accurate and the FDA doesn't regulate them. "I want pet owners and veterinarians to understand that they should not be using direct-to-consumer dog DNA testing to make medical decisions about individual animals," she says.

There are no industry-wide standards for testing either breed or health status she notes.

"Manufacturers are not obligated to tell us what methodologies they use — what quality control they use," she says.

And inaccurate information on health risks could create more problems than they solve, she says. If a DNA test suggests a vulnerability to a disease, Moses says that doesn't mean the dog will actually get it. In fact, most dogs don't, she says.

If you're concerned about a health problem, John Howe, a veterinarian and president of the American Veterinary Medical Association says your best bet is to talk with your vet. "Because veterinarians are really adept at using all of our education, experiences, senses and knowledge to diagnose and treat the patients that we have as well as incorporating any external information from our clients or from literature or from other veterinarians," he says.

Howe says if you just want to find out more about your dog's ancestry a DNA test could be a fun thing to do. Just understand, he says, that it may not be accurate. DNA testing runs between $80 and $150. j

npr.org

Pet Events

Pet Food Bank Distribution

By Appointment Due to COVID-19, until further notice the FCNMHP Pet Food Bank will be by appointment only for qualified recipients. As their supply is very low, each client will be limited to receive enough pet food for 2 dogs and 2 cats. Be sure to bring a container to put each pet's food in. In order to qualify for food, you must bring Proof of Spay/Neuter for Each Pet, Proof of Income Qualifications, Photo Identification, a completed Terms of Agreement – First Time Receivers Only, and a completed Food Bank Application – First Time Receivers Only.

Cassat Regional Veterinary Hospital / 904507-4425 / 464 Cassat Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32254 / www.fcnmhp.org ShotVet Pet Clinics February 7, 13, 14, 21, 27, 28 Low cost pet vaccinations, given by licensed veterinarians. No appointments are necessary.

Bruster's Ice Cream -- February 14, 28, 12noon to 1pm Tires Plus -- February 13, 27, 10am to 11am Planet Fitness -- February 13, 27, 8am to 9am Lowe's -- February 13, 27, 12noon to 1pm Starbucks -- February 14, 28, 2pm to 3pm PDQ Restaurant -- February 14, 28, 4pm to 5pm Cure Pharmacy at Publix -- February 14, 28, 10am to 11am O'Reilly's Auto Parts -- February 14, 28, 8am to 9am Chili's -- February 7, 21, 3:30pm to 4:30pm Dunkin' Donuts -- February 7, 21, 12:30pm to 1:30pm ShotVet / 407-792-0384 / info@shotvet.com / www.shotvet.com Bruster's Ice Cream / 12224 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225 Tires Plus / 13162 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville FL 32225 Starbucks / 13315 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225 Planet Fitness / 2771 Monument Rd, Jacksonville FL 32225 PDQ Restaurant / 3260 Hodges Blvd, Jacksonville FL 32224 Cure Pharmacy at Publix / 7001 Merrill Rd #13, Jacksonville, FL 32277 O'Reilly's Auto Parts / 4124 Emerson Street, Jacksonville, FL 32207 Lowe's / 8080 Philips Hwy, Jacksonville, FL 32256 Chili's / 13891 Old St Augustine Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32258 Dunkin' Donuts / 12709 Bartram Park Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32258

Loose Leash Walking Seminar February 11, 10:30am to 12noon Learn how to teach your dog to casually walk on a leash without pulling. Skills will be practiced outside, so dress accordingly. Class is weather permitting, and will be cancelled if there is severe weather. Class is limited to 8 students. Cost is $39.

Pet Camp / 904-829-6165 / 1195 Thompson Bailey Rd, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www. mypetcamp.com Online Event: Easy Pet Toys February 17, 3pm Kids of all ages are invited to join Ms. Nicole and make some pet toys. Stop by the Anastasia Library for your toy kit, then watch the online video for instructions. This is an online event that you can watch on the library's YouTube Channel, website, or Facebook page.

If you can't get to the Anastasia Library, the supplies needed are old socks, scissors, catnip, hair tie, and old t-shirt or fabric.

St. Johns County Public Library / 904-2093730 / libai@sjcfl.us / sjcpls.org Rocking Recall Competition February 27, 11am to 12:30pm A recall, a dog that comes when called, is the single most important thing you can teach your dog. The recall has many uses, not just when a dog runs off. You've taught your dog to recall, now put those skills to the test.

Fastest dog will take home a cash prize. One dog will run at a time, in a fenced in secure environment. Cost for the competition is $10/dog.

Pet Camp / 904-829-6165 / 1195 Thompson Bailey Rd, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www. mypetcamp.com Paint Your Own Pet February 28, 1pm to 4pm This is a personalized painting session where staff will teach you how to paint your own pet. Please send a high resolution headshot image of your pet to studio086@paintingwithatwist.com by February 21 for them to pre-sketch your fur baby before the class.

Paint Your own Pet is now offered on your choice of a 16x20 canvas or a 12x12 canvas.

Only one pet per sign-up. Cost is $55/painter.

Painting With a Twist, San Marco / 904-3998399 / 1525 San Marco Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www.paintingwithatwist.com

Like Jax4Pets.com’s Facebook page at facebook.com/jax4pets to find out about other events for pets.

FEBRUARY 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 21

NATURE

'Smart' Bees Are Helping to Protect Our Food Supply prolonged and intensive that it promoted ees travel from flower to flower, sipping B nectar for energy and gathering pollen for significant increases in the crop yields." food for their developing offspring. Electrostatic charges attract pollen to hair on the bees’ body and legs, and when they land on another flower, the pollen is distributed, a process known as cross-pollination.

According to Michigan State University’s Department of Entomology, individual bees tend to travel among one type of flower at a time, making it more likely that they’ll visit flowers of the same species, leading to successful cross-pollination that results in seed production.

One way that bees locate flowers to pollinate is via ultraviolet light, which bees can detect.

Many flowers have low ultraviolet reflectance near the center of the petals, which attracts bees to the flower’s center, making it easier for the bee to collect nectar and the plant to be effectively pollinated.

Worldwide, more than one-third of crops depend on pollination from bees, including crops such as alfalfa, sunflower and many fruits and vegetables. Honeybees alone help to pollinate 87 of the top 115 food crops.

However, colonies have declined by 30% to 40%, at a time when crop acreage in need of bee pollination continues to increase.

The demand for pollination services has triggered consideration of new strategies to improve pollination results, which led researchers with the University of Buenos Aires to use odors to increase the precision of pollination.

Previously, they found that bees can recall scent memories, and that such memories change bee behavior. For the featured research, the University developed a sunflower-like odor and presented it to bees on their food. When bee colonies were fed food scented with the sunflower-like odor, it led to changes in bee behavior.

Feeding bees sunflower-scented food influenced the bees’ foraging behaviors, leading them to visit sunflowers more often and bring more sunflower pollen back to their hive. The “scent training” also increased the number of waggle dances advertising the sunflowers while positively affecting the density of bees on the sunflower crop.

Perhaps most impressive, “The offering of a rewarded odor mimicking the sunflower floral fragrance promoted higher foraging activity,” the study noted, which resulted in increased sunflower yields from 29% to 57%.

It may seem surprising that bees could be trained to sniff out scents similar to dogs, but bees are known to show impressive cognitive flexibility such that they could quickly learn new behaviors should ecological pressures demand them.

Bees, for instance, have been successfully trained to move a ball to a specific location in order to get a food reward, and other bees learned the skill best by watching other bees do it.

What’s more, they didn’t simply copy the behavior of other bees — they made more efficient use of tools when possible, choosing balls that were closer to the target instead of moving them over long distances.

Bees have also been trained to pull a string to get food, and the skill ultimately spread rapidly throughout the colony, demonstrating a form of cultural transmission of knowledge to the next generation of learners, similar to what occurred in the scent-training study.

Pollinator-dependent crops are being planted with fervor, while agricultural practices are threatening pollinator populations. “Particularly worrisome is a rapid expansion of pollinatordependent oilseed crops in several countries of the Americas and Asia that has resulted in a The researchers analyzed the bees’ waggle decrease in agricultural diversity,” researchers dances, which are used to communicate valuable information to their hive, and revealed wrote in Global Change Biology. that they were sharing their scent memory Increasing crop diversification and using with others in the hive — behavior that sustainable agricultural practices will be ultimately changed foraging patterns. necessary to stop this damaging cycle, but perhaps, too, bees’ ability to be scent-trained "We show that it's possible to condition will also have a place in improving crop honeybees to a rewarded odor inside the colony, and this experience modifies the bees' yields.j odor-guided behaviors later," lead study Dr. Karen Becker author Walter Farina said, adding, "The most healthypets.mercola.com surprising and relevant result is that the foraging preferences for the target crop are so

FEBRUARY 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 22

Things to Do Nature Events

Tree Protection Workshop February 1, 6pm The City of Atlantic Beach Planning and Community Development Department is soliciting public input as the community reviews and updates the tree-protection code. The workshop will be held in person, and virtually via Zoom.

City of Atlantic Beach Commission Chamber at City Hall / 904-247-5804 / 800 Seminole Road, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 / www.coab.us Online Event: All About Composting February 8, 12noon Join Amy, Assistant Branch Manager of the Main Library, as she welcomes Terra Freeman, Horticulture Extension Agent and Master Gardener Program Coordinator of the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences – Extension St. Johns (UF/IFAS). Terra will talk about how to get started with composting. This is an online event that you can watch on the library's website, Facebook page, or YouTube channel.

St. Johns County Public Library / 904-8276940 / libm@sjcfl.us / sjcpls.org Zoom Event: Living With Snakes and Gators February 9, 3:30pm to 4:30pm Join Park Naturalist Kelly Ussia for a family-friendly presentation about the snakes and alligators found throughout the State of Florida and maybe even in your backyard. Learn about the various species of snakes in our areas as well as how to live with the crocodilian neighbors. This is a free, virtual event, but registration is required.

St. Johns County Public Library / 904-2090335 / kussia@sjcfl.us / sjcpls.org Facebook Event: The Wonder of Feeding the Birds February 12, 3pm Join the St. Johns County Public Library to learn facts about pine cones and interesting tips about bird feeding. Then gather a pine cone, bird seed, peanut butter, and string to create a bird feeder. This is a Facebook event that you can watch on the

library's Facebook page. The event will be archived on their website and YouTube channel.

St. Johns County Public Library / 904-8276940 / libm@sjcfl.us / sjcpls.org Discovering Nature Nearby February 13, 10am The Discovering Nature Nearby Program returns to the Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens. This month, go on a Valentine’s Day nature tour focused on the heart: plants that have heart shaped leaves, those that are good for our hearts and those that represent love. This is an event for all ages. $3 non-member visitor donation is requested to help pay for maintenance and operations.

Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens / 1445 Millcoe Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32225 / www. jacksonvillearboretum.org Wake Up Wild February 20, 9am to 9:30am Join Education Animal Ambassadors live via Zoom for a new twist on your morning meal. During this virtual program, the Education staff will share facts about a featured animal species as you watch them chow down to start their day. Each fee covers one household per Wake Up Wild Virtual Program. Cost is $20 for members and $30 for non-members. This month's event features Giant Rabbits.

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens / 904-7574463 / 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218 / www.jacksonvillezoo.org Rising Tides: McCoys Creek Cleanup February 21, 10am to 12noon The community is invited for the monthly cleanup on McCoys Creek led by Rising Tides. Be sure to bring a reuseable water bottle, hat & sunglasses, wear closed toe shoes (rain boots, work boots, or waders are extremely helpful), and bring heavy duty gloves (if desired). Cleanup gloves and bags will be provided by City of Jacksonville and Keep Jacksonville Beautiful.

Masks are required.

Tabula Rasa Brewing / 904-563-5160 / 2385 Corbett Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.stjohnsriverkeeper.org

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

THINGS TO DO Clay County Agricultural Fair Advance Ticket Sale Thru March 31 Tickets are on sale now for the 2021 Clay County Agricultural Fair. Regular Ticket Prices are $10 for Adults, $7 Senior / Child, and children 5 and under receive free gate admission.

Advance sale ticket prices are $7 for Adults, and $5 for Senior / Child tickets. Advance armbands will also be available for purchase for $17 each. Armbands will be good for any day except Saturdays. Concert tickets are also on sale now. Tickets purchased for concerts include gate admission. You can buy with confidence knowing that should the concerts be cancelled due to COVID-19, you will have the opportunity for a full refund.

Clay County Fairgrounds / 904-284-1615 / 2493 State Road 16 W, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 / www.claycountyfair.org Toytopia at MOSH Thru May 16 Toytopia is a family-oriented exhibition that invites children of all ages to engage in play with some of the world’s most iconic toys.

Guests will learn about the evolution of toys throughout the 20th century, witness a giant K-NEX ferris wheel, and discover a variety of unique interactives, from working arcade games from the 1970's and 80's to a life-size dollhouse. There are photo opportunities with both the world’s largest Etch A Sketch and a life-size Monopoly car token, a giant piano keyboard you can play with your feet and over-sized versions of Connect 4 and Battleship. Tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance.

Museum of Science and History / 904-3966674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org Singin' In The Rain at the Alhambra Thru February 14 The Alhambra Theatre presents Singin' In The Rain. Ticket prices start at $66, with evening and matinee performances available.

Dinner is included with the ticket price, and the menu is available online. There are no shows on Mondays. The Alhambra is taking every precaution to protect the safety of its guests as it relates to COVID-19. To protect the staff and guests, they are adhering to all recommendations from the state and local officials, including practicing social distancing by limiting capacity to the recommended percentage in the theater and limiting access to the Library Lounge. In regard to seating, no two parties will share a table unless otherwise requested and each reserved seat is at least 6 ft. away from the next reserved seat (not in their party). Throughout the building,

you will find measured distances marked on the floor to avoid crowding. Masks are to be worn during your experience at the theater, excluding during the meal portion. A special Valentine Celebration Package is available to add on to any ticket purchase. Package includes A Glass of Wine, Champagne, Non-Alcoholic Champagne or Sparkling Juice for Two; A Double-Rose Arrangement Presented in a Glass Vase; and A 5 x 7 Photo to Remember Your Special Theater Experience Together.

Cost is $49 + Tax and can be added to any new or existing reservation.

Alhambra Theatre and Dining / 904-641-1212 / 12000 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.alhambrajax.com Family Farm Fun Day February 6, 9:30am to 3pm Diamond D Ranch hosts a Family Farm Fun Day. Activities include wagon rides, nature walks, pony rides, animal orientation, a dixie cartwheel ride, bounce houses, and more. All tickets must be purchased in advance prior to arrival. Children under 2 are free. Tickets are $20.

Diamond D Ranch / 904-289-9331 / 59031 Solomon Road, Jacksonville, FL 32234 / www.diamonddranchinc.com Jacksonville Icemen vs Greenville Swamp Rabbits February 6, 7pm The Jacksonville Icemen take on the Greenville Swamp Rabbits. Masks must be worn when not eating or drinking and social distancing guidelines are in place. Tickets start at $18 each and must be purchased in groups of four. The Jacksonville Icemen are a proud affiliate of the NHL’s Winnipeg Jets and AHL’s Manitoba Moose.

VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena / 904-6027825 / 300 A Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jacksonvilleicemen. com

a “DADvocate” for children. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a family resource designed for parents, caregivers, and community members. All Parent Academy courses are free of charge.

Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org / dcps. duvalschools.org Mozart v. Salieri February 12-13, 6pm First Coast Opera, Northeast Florida’s professional opera company, will present Mozart v.

Salieri in the St. Jude Preservation Hall at St. Anastasia Catholic Church. This co-production with artists from The Alabama School of the Arts features performances of The Impresario

by W.A. Mozart, and Prima la musica, poi le parole, by Antonio Salieri, both performed with English translations. The evening will also feature a catered buffet dinner from Carrabba’s Italian Grill. Regular tickets are $75 per person. Tables will be sold as one group - six seats at each table. Gather your small group of friends who you will sit with for dinner and the show. A limited number of Enhanced Tickets are also available for $125 per person which include hors d’oeuvres, champagne, and a meet-and-greet with FCO’s Artistic Director, Curtis Tucker. Distancing and safety protocols will be in place for both artists and audience.

St. Anastasia Catholic Church / 904-417-5555 / 5205 A1A South, St. Augustine, FL 32080 / firstcoastopera.com

Drive-Thru Bestie Bash February 7, 11am to 1pm The Orange Park Mall hosts a Drive-Thru Bestie Bash. There will be all kinds of activities and giveaways to take home and do with your best friend.

Orange Park Mall / 904-269-2422 / 1910 Wells Road, Orange Park, FL 32073 / orangeparkmall.com

Household Hazardous Waste Mobile Collection Event: Baker Skinner Park February 13, 9am to 3pm The City of Jacksonville offers citizens opportunities and events that promote appropriate disposal of waste and other debris. This effort includes the Solid Waste Division’s Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) and Electronic Waste (e-waste) Mobile Collection events where residents can take items, like chemicals and small appliances, to locations throughout the city to be properly discarded. Eleven other mobile collection events will be held during the year. Disposing paint and motor oil: Limits are 27 gallons of paint and/or 27 gallons of motor oil in a 30-day period per Duval County resident.

Baker Skinner Park / 7641 Powers Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32217 / www.coj.net

Duval Dads: DADvocacy February 9, 6:30pm Male caregivers and role models play a vital role in a child’s education. View this course to hear from a local father and child advocate as he shares successful strategies for becoming

Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp Family Movie Night February 20, 6pm The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp host a socially distanced Family Movie Night. The featured movie will be The Princess and the Frog. A

limited number of socially-distanced seating is available in the 121 Financial Ballpark seating bowl with the following prices and maximum grouping increments: Two-Person ($12); Family Four ($24); Family Six ($36); Group of Eight ($48). Each group will be placed in accordance with social distancing guidelines.

Tickets must be purchased in advance. Other ticket options include infield VIP tabletop seating and exclusive climate-controlled suites.

121 Financial Ballpark / 904-358-2846 / 301 A Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / http://www.milb.com World of Nations Celebration 2021 February 26, 9am to 7pm; February 27, 10am to 7pm; February 28, 10am to 6pm The City of Jacksonville hosts the 29th Annual World of Nations Celebration. Experience more than 30 cultural destinations through educational aspects, authentic cuisine, crafts, dance, and many other traditions. Tickets are available online. On the first day of the event, February 26, the World of Nations Celebration will offer special “Sensory Friendly” programming from 9am to 11am. This will be an opportunity for individuals with sensitivities to processing sensory information such as sound, light, touch, etc., to explore the cultural experiences comfortably. Tickets are available for advance purchase for $5 + tax & fees (ages 3 and under are free). To ensure the health and safety of all guests, participants and staff, COVID-19 mitigation protocols have been implemented.

A brand-new tasting experience at the 2021 World of Nations Celebration will give guests the opportunity to try even more flavors from around the world. These $1-3 tastings will be available at various participating countries all three days of the event. Full size portions will continue to be part of the menus. Also returning to the World of Nations Celebration, the event will showcase a naturalization ceremony on Friday, February 26 thanks to USCIS Field Office Director Lisa Bradley and Judge Marcia Morales Howard. At the ceremony, the selected local Immigrants will be asked to take the Oath of Allegiance by Judge Howard, which is the final step in becoming a U.S. Citizen. Countries participating in the World of Nations Celebration include: The Bahamas, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Ghana, Haiti, Honduras, India, Indonesia, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Mexico, Native America, Palestine, Peru, Puerto Rico, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, St. Lucia, Turkey, U.S.A., U.S. Virgin Islands and Venezuela. ​ Tailgaters Parking / 904-630-3690 / 225 Talleyrand Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32202/ specialevents.coj.net

FEBRUARY 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 23

EMPOWER YOUR CHILD WITH

CONFIDENCE FOR LIFETIME SUCCESS

Taking a martial arts class specifically designed and created with these seven steps for leadership development can be very beneficial.

We can help you teach them to: Make a commitment to grow daily.

Value the process more than the events.

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Give up to go up.

Be willing to sacrifice pleasure for opportunity.

5

Dream big. It doesn’t pay to dream small.

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Self-Confidence Self-Defense

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