Things to Do Education Events

Bite-Size Science Virtual Program

Thru June 2

A 15-episode series of curriculum-related 10- to 15-minute videos covering life science topics such as cheetah adaptations, ocean food chains, wetlands, monarch butterflies, pollination, and much more. Each video features one of Lucas Miller, the Singing Zoologist's, songs and an entertaining science lesson. The series includes over three hours of content, curriculum connections including Florida Standards, animations, nature footage, quizzes, and a study guide with activities and additional resources. The series is geared for students in grades K-5 (ages 5 and 11). A viewing link will be emailed with instructions on how to access the virtual program. The link can be shared within your group to view with ease in a classroom, at home, or on a mobile device. FSCJ Artist Series / 904-632-5050 / www.fscjartistseries.org

Strategies for the Struggling Writer

February 2, 6pm

This webinar is for parents of students who struggle with handwriting, developing sentences, or answering prompts. Learn strategies to support your student and help guide them to success. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a free family resource that promotes parental involvement, enhances student achievement, and supports a caregiver's need for personal and individual growth. Parent Academy courses are offered virtually through Microsoft Teams. Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / dcps.duvalschools.org

44th Annual Jacksonville Model Train and Railroadiana Show

February 4, 9am to 5pm

Over 200 tables representing dealers from all over the nation will have model items in all gauges and Railroad Antiques for sale. This is Florida’s largest combination show, displaying items for both the “modeler” and “railbuff” alike all under one roof. The model railroader may choose from Lionel, American Flyer, LGB, Marklin, or Ives Trains from the past or present. The railbuff may focus on dining car china, lanterns, switch locks and keys, calendars, timetables, signs, or any other artifacts actually utilized by the railroads. Both collecting interests represent truly unique pieces of Americana. As an extra feature of this show, there will be a large working layout hosted by the First Coast Model Railroad Society and other working layouts for all to view during all open show hours. Admission is $12; children under 12 are free. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the ticket office onsite. Parking is free in the main lot only. Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center / 703536- 2954 / 1000 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.gserr.com

10th Annual Florida STEM & Health Expo

February 4, 10am to 2pm

The River City Science Academy hosts the 10th Annual Florida STEM & Health Expo. All families are welcome for this free, oneday event featuring science shows, STEM educators and scientists, hands-on activities, robots, community health supporters, doctors, health professionals, community workers, the fire and police department, vendor booths, public servants, and more. There will be over 100 tables with STEM projects and handson activities. The community will be able to visit with and learn about many businesses and organizations in Florida, including health providers, colleges and universities, non-profit organizations, and more. River City Science Academy Innovation Campus / 904-855-8010 / 8160 Baymeadows Way W, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / www.flstemexpo.com

Beginner Art Class

February 5, 12, 19, 9:30am to 11am

This new Beginner Art Class meets three times a month on Sundays. In each class, your child will learn a new skill related to painting, sketching, drawing, composition, and overall creativity. Children will have access to a wide variety of materials, learn from a local artist, teacher, and art therapist, and connect with others their own age in a meaningful way. Classes are $35 for 1.5 hours or you can buy a bundle for a discount. Classes are best suited for ages 7 to 12, but other ages are welcome if discussed with the teacher. Authentic Art Space / 352-514-1625 / 1804 San Marco Place, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www.authenticartspace.com

Accelerating Student Learning in Reading & Math with Freckle • February 7, 6pm

Join staff to learn about two programs currently being used in DCPS 3rd- through 5th-grade classrooms. This course will explore Freckle, an online program used by students to practice reading and math skills, and the Star assessment, which is used to assess student progress and guide instruction. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a free family resource that promotes parental involvement, enhances student achievement, and supports a caregiver's need for personal and individual growth. Parent Academy courses are offered virtually through Microsoft Teams. Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / dcps.duvalschools.org

Christ’s Church Academy Informational Meetings • February 10, 9am

Christ’s Church Academy hosts a series of admissions open houses. Families can tour the campus, meet the faculty, and gather information. Free, but please RSVP so they know how many to plan for.

Christ's Church Academy / 904-268-8667 / 6045 Greenland Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258 / www.ccajax.org

Sensical TV by Common Sense Media

Free to explore, free to learn, and free to watch, Sensical, from Common Sense Networks, is a new streaming service for kids offering thousands of entertaining, age-appropriate videos and podcasts featuring characters and creators that children love. Child development experts, not algorithms, approve every frame of every video for safety and age appropriateness. Kids can safely and easily scroll, tap, and enjoy 50+ exciting channels built around their favorite topics.

The service features content for three distinct age groups: ages 2-4 (Preschool), 5-7 (Little Kids), and 8-10 (Big Kids). Content for Preschoolers supports early learning and school readiness. Content for Little Kids supports literacy, STEM, problem-solving, and complements the national elementary curriculum. Content for Big Kids features diverse perspectives and complements the national elementary curriculum.

Sensical isn’t just free to download, it’s also free to watch anytime on any device. Sensical is ad-supported so that the platform can be freely available to all. The streamer is free from inappropriate ads because the experts carefully review every sponsor. Sensical has developed advertising guidelines that adhere to the highest standards for safe kid's advertising. To learn more, you can contact feedback@sensical.tv.

In addition, Sensical recognizes that advertising is part of the world in which kids grow up. They believe that safe, appropriate advertising that has been carefully curated to meet their standards, combined with the guidance on advertising and digital literacy that Sensical is uniquely positioned to provide, supports kids in understanding the commercial nature of their world and empowers parents to help their kids make well-informed decisions about their commercial choices.

How can I watch Sensical?

Sensical is free to watch and free to download as a branded app on streaming devices, smart TVs, mobile devices, and via live streaming channels.

Sensical also can be viewed on the website sensical.tv. Simply register and sign in to watch content. If you are already registered for Sensical, your same email and password will