Jax4Kids June 2019

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In this issue: Your Guide to Summer

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June 2019

JUNE 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 2

Contents

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

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Dear Readers,

LIVING WELL

Community Profile: Arlington Food Pantry............................................................4 Museum Free For Military This Summer...............................................................4 Cummer Announces Family 2 Family Membership Match......................................4 Father’s Day Events.............................................................................................5

n this issue, you’ll find SO many great activities to experience this summer!

On May 25th, “Expedition: Dinosaur” will open at MOSH and Jax4Kids is proud to sponsor this exciting new summer exhibition. You’ll travel back in time and walk among the dinosaurs!

Life-size, lifelike animatronic dinosaurs with realistic movements and sounds, along with a wide range of hands-on interactive experiences throughout three floors of the Museum, celebrate and explore the fascinating world of dinosaurs.

Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram – we’ll have an opportunity for you to win tickets to see “Expedition: Dinosaur!”

The Little Mermaid opens on June 12th at The Alhambra Theatre & Dining. Don’t hesitate – make your reservations for this spectacular summer treat for families today! You won’t want to miss it.

On June 14th, the “French Moderns: Monet to Matisse 1850 – 1950” exhibit opens at The Cummer Museum and Gardens. They have created programming for children to introduce them to these masterpiece works of art including Art Adventures for Ages 6 through 12 on June 15th.

Register online at cummermuseum.org. June 18th is Free Tuesday at The Cummer. Admission is free and, at 6pm, you can take a family friendly interactive tour of French Moderns: Monet to Matisse. The Café will feature French-themed foods and music.

We’re giving you a chance to see of Men In Black: International before it opens in theaters on June 14th. You and your family will get reserved seating at an advance screening of the movie and MIB Sunglassses! Turn to page 28 to find out how to enter to win.

JUNE 2019

EATING WELL

Kids Cupcake Contest..........................................................................................6 Recipe: Beat the Heat with Summer Salad...........................................................6 Keep Family Food-Safe This Summer!.................................................................. 6 page 16 and find out where and how.

There are lots of hands-on activities to enjoy this month. Kids can build a putting green at Home Depot, become an Oceanographer or Earth Scientist, make art, cook and more! Check out all of the hands-on activities on page 14.

Enjoy dive-in movies, swim-in movies, movies in the park, movies on the green and more – most are free of charge. Turn to page 15 and find out where the summer movie events are.

On Sunday, June 16th, we honor and celebrate Dads. Turn to page 5 for some of the many Father’s Day events you can enjoy. Visit us online at www.jax4kids.com for even more Father’s Day events, summer camps, places to go and things to do this summer!

Until Next Month, Alison Peters-Carlson Editor

Kids can bowl free all summer long. Turn to

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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 2019.

Reproduction of any artwork or copy prepared by Jax4Kids.com To Go is strictly prohibited without written consent of the publisher. We will not be responsible for any errors and/or omissions. The Publisher’s liability for error will not exceed the cost of space occupied by the error. Articles for publication are welcome and may be sent to editor@jax4kids.com. For more information concerning advertising, call 904-710-2020 or e-mail advertise@jax4kids.com.

HEALTH & SAFETY

Little Known Facts About Sunscreens...................................................................7 Things To Do: Health & Safety.............................................................................7 How to Treat the Summer Cold.............................................................................8

NATURE

World Reef Day...................................................................................................9 Things To Do: Nature....................................................................................... 9

INFANT & TODDLER

Poll Reveals Speech-Hearing Concerns..............................................................10 Things to Do: Infant & Toddler...........................................................................10

SPECIAL NEEDS

Apps to Help Special Needs...............................................................................12 Music Therapist Takes on New Role....................................................................12 Special Needs Summer Camps..........................................................................13 Things To Do: Special Needs.............................................................................13

SUMMER GUIDE

Summer Deals..................................................................................................14 Hands-On Fun...................................................................................................14 Summer Movies................................................................................................15 Kids Bowl Free..................................................................................................16 Movie Releases.................................................................................................16 Sporting Events.................................................................................................17 Summer Reading...............................................................................................18 Best Books for Summer.....................................................................................19 Theatre & Arts...................................................................................................20 Parent Academy June Courses...........................................................................20

EDUCATION

Summertime Reading with Your Kids..................................................................21 Duval County School News........................................................................... 22-25 Clay County School News..................................................................................26 St. John’s County School News.......................................................................27

TEENS

Punishment Varies for Illegal Sexting..................................................................28 Things To Do: Teens..........................................................................................28

PETS

Playtime Benefits Master as Well........................................................................29 Things To Do: Pets............................................................................................29

THINGS TO DO

Mom’s Night Out Events.....................................................................................30 June Events......................................................................................................31

JUNE 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 3

LIVING WELL

Community Profile:

Arlington Food Pantry

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he third Saturday in April was the grand opening of the Arlington Food Pantry inside the Regency Square Mall, and hundreds of those in need lined up for the free food.

The pantry is a collaborative effort between the nonprofit agencies Revitalize Arlington, Feeding Northeast Florida and the Regency Square Mall and is open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“We are here every third Saturday,” said Dr. Joy Hervey, Revitalize Arlington CEO and director of global missions at Impact Church.

“The mall management made this space available to us free of charge because they noticed there were so many food-insecure people who come to the mall.”

housing development and workforce development. Other partners include Jacksonville University, Duval County School District and the City of Jacksonville’s Renew Arlington effort.

Impact Church’s Regency campus is at 8985 Lone Star Road. Formerly Faith Christian Center, Impact Church was founded in 1996.

In July 2016, the growing church purchased the former Belk building in Regency Mall as its future church home.

Feeding Northeast Florida is the community’s largest hunger-relief network, working to establish food security across eight counties in Northeast Florida since 2014. In 2018, Feeding Northeast Florida, through its network of more than 150 social service agencies and programs, such as the City Rescue Mission, The Sulzbacher Center and The Salvation Army, provided more than 14.1 million meals through its network of social service agencies in eight counties throughout Northeast Florida. j

Revitalize Arlington, the nonprofit arm of Arlington 20/20, is a community revitalization initiative to put together a comprehensive network of change that was started in 2015 and led by Impact Church. It works in partnership with more than 20 Arlington-based nonprofits, churches and dozens of individuals feedingnefl.org arlington2020jax.org to address concerns in the community. The weareimpact.com transformation initiative is divided into five focus areas: community empowerment, family strengthening, economic development,

Museum Free for Military This Summer

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t. Augustine’s Lightner Museum is participating in the 10th summer of Blue Star Museums, a program which provides free admission to active-duty military personnel and their families. The program began on Armed Forces Day and ends on Labor Day. A list of participating museums is available at arts.gov/bluestarmuseums.

Johns County to take part in Blue Star and I am happy to see that other institutions have followed suit. The Lightner and its staff consider it an honor to salute our Military in this way.”

The Lightner Museum is housed in the former Alcazar Hotel built in 1888 by Henry Flagler.

Today it is home to one of the premier Blue Star Museums is an initiative of the collections of fine and decorative 19th century National Endowment for the Arts in collabora- art in the country. The museum is open to the tion with Blue Star Families, the Department of public seven days a week and features Defense, and more than 2,000 museums self-guided tours, tours by reservation for nationwide. adults and children, and demonstrations of antique mechanical musical instruments. The “The Lightner Museum considers it a small but Lightner Museum is a non-profit cultural necessary opportunity to participate in the institution sustained by the generous support Blue Star Program. Honoring our military and of individuals, businesses and sponsors. For its families has been a decades-long tradition more information on programs and events visit at the Lightner,” said Robert Harper, Lightner lightnermuseum.org. j Museum director. “We were the first in St.

JUNE 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 4

Cummer Announces Family 2 Family Membership Match

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membership at the Cummer Museum provides several benefits — including access to the campus, family-friendly programs and events, and discounts. Now, new or renewing Family-level members can double the impact of their membership.

The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens recently announced the launch of the Family 2 Family Membership Match promotion. For every $100 donated to the Museum as part of a membership purchase or upgrade through September 30, the Museum will give a Museum membership to the family of a current fourth-grade Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) student.

“We are so thankful to community partners like the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens that play such a vital role in enriching the educational and cultural experiences of our students,” said Dr. Diana Greene, superintendent of Duval County Public Schools.

“Through the Cummer’s Family 2 Family promotion, learning in art, history, and social studies will be brought to life for our students and their families as they enjoy even greater access to the museum.”

Family-level memberships cost $100 and include free admission for a year for two adults and children or grandchildren under the age of 18.

Additional benefits include exclusive exhibition openings; special invitations to programs and events; a quarterly digital newsletter; discount admission for concerts, lectures, garden programs, art camps and classes; a 10% discount at the Cummer Shop and Cummer Café; free admission to more than 150 Southeast Reciprocal Museums; reciprocal membership to over 1,000 institutions through the North American Reciprocal Museums (NARM) program; and reciprocal membership to nearly 300 gardens through the American Horticultural Society Reciprocal Program.

The Museum’s goal for the Family 2 Family promotion is to secure 5,500 memberships to provide all current fourth-grade students with a free Family-level membership. Thousands of DCPS students visited the Museum or participated in art education experiences this year and the Match promotion will ensure these students can come back to the Museum with their families without restriction, whether to experience a special exhibition or enjoy playing in the reconstructed gardens. Family 2 Family is about this community coming together to provide access to the highest For more information, visit quality arts, gardens and programming. The Museum will work with DCPS to distribute vouchers cummermuseum.org/F2F. for free Museum memberships to students and their families during the 2019-2020 school year.

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LIVING WELL FATHER’S DAY EVENTS Father’s Day Birdhouse Workshop June 8, 9:30am to 11:30am Join ranger Jeff as he leads you through the steps of building a basic birdhouse. During your time here, he will also discuss choosing a location, mounting techniques and a bit of information on the birds that may utilize the your project. All supplies will be included in the price of the ticket. Price of $15 is per birdhouse, not per participant. Please select the number of birdhouses you would like to build. Entry fee into the park is included in the price of the ticket. All ages are welcome, however children must be accompanied by an adult. Ravine Gardens State Park / 386329-3721 / 1600 Twigg Street, Palatka, FL 32177 / www.floridastateparks.org Father & Son Men’s Breakfast June 8, 8:30am to 12noon Join Deermeadows Baptist Church for a Father & Son Men’s Breakfast. The event will feature guest speaker Mark Brunell, former Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback. Registration is free, but there is a $5 per person suggested donation at the door.

Deermeadows Baptist Church / 904-6422200 / 9780 Baymeadows Road, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / www.deermeadows.org Daddy Daughter Date Night at Color Me Mine • June 8, 6pm to 8pm Celebrate Father’s Day with Dad at Color Me Mine. Capture this memory on a hand-painted piece of ceramic. $15 deposit will reserve your table, and that price will be deducted this from your total on the day of the event. Pick whatever you like to paint, no restrictions. Pottery items range in prices from $16 to $50. Light refreshments will be served, and reservations are required.

Color Me Mine / 904-338-9333 / 10300 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / jacksonville.colormemine.com Father’s Day Cards June 15, 11am to 2pm Create your own one of a kind Father’s Day card that will show him just how much you care. All ages are welcome. Free.

Jacksonville Public Library, Beaches Branch / 904-241-1141 / 600 3rd Street, Neptune Beach, FL 32266 / www.jaxpubliclibrary.org The Daddy Daughter Brunch

June 15, 1pm to 4pm The 1st Annual Daddy Daughter Brunch is a celebration of the special relationship that fathers share with their little girls, even if they aren’t so little anymore. This event will serve as fundraiser for several causes including North Florida Gymnastics & Cheer and Simpson Memorial United Methodist Church. The entire family is welcome to attend. Call 904-535-0035 for table reservations. Adult brunch is $30 each, and kids 12 and under is $25. Seachasers Southern Kitchen / 904-535-0035 / 831 1st Street North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / www.seachaserslounge.com A Great Day Together Daddy & Me Set June 15, 2pm to 4pm Come paint with your dad, or make a special gift for him at Painting With a Twist, St. Augustine. Price is $30 per painter. Event is for ages 7 and up. No Infants/Toddlers/Children not painting permitted during any event times. Painting With a Twist, St. Augustine / 904-217-8166 / 292 State Road 312, St. Augustine, FL 32086 / www.paintingwithatwist.com

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

Celebrate Dad at the World Golf Village Hall of Fame June 16, 12noon to 6pm Celebrate Father’s Day at the World Golf Hall of Fame & Museum with complimentary admission for all dads. Plus, catch the final round of the U.S. Open playing throughout the museum.

World Golf Hall of Fame / 904-940-4123 / 1 World Golf Place, St. Augustine, FL 32092 / www.worldgolfhalloffame.org Father’s Day at Topgolf June 16 To celebrate Father’s Day, Top Golf is offering two packages to make planning Father’s Day even easier. Each package includes a bay reservation for up to 6 people - so you can skip the line on Father’s Day. Reservations sell out fast, so book in advance. And new this year, you can book up to two bays next to each other.

Topgolf / 904-328-2002 / 10531 Brightman Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.topgolf.com

Register online now for fall classes!

JUNE 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 5

EATING WELL

Kids Cupcake Contest K

ids love to be in the kitchen and cupcakes are a great way to launch their creativity by baking something yummy for the family. The Women’s Food Alliance is hosting the second annual “Why I Like to Bake for My Family” Kids Cupcake Contest for children 8 to 12 years of age.

Every finalist will receive:

The grand prize winner will receive:

To enter email your recipe and a story about “Why I Like to Bake Cookies For My Family” to leigh@leighcortpublicity.com with child’s name, address, telephone number and email of parent or guardian. Email entry must be received by July 1.

• A 2-night Family Vacation for four at St. Francis Inn in St. Augustine (Sunday thru Thursday based on availability).

• Sunday Brunch for four at the Casa Marina Hotel, Jacksonville Beach.

• Kilwins Ice Cream Social for fifty guests that includes waffle cones & toppings.

• Kilwins gift card for a specialty ice cream at Town Center Kilwins, Jacksonville.

• Gift card for two ice creams at Peace Pie Sandwiches.

• A $10 Tropical Smoothie gift card.

• Sunday Brunch for four at the Casa Marina Hotel, Jacksonville Beach.

Entrants must be 8 to 12 years old. Finalists will be notified by July 15. The top 12 and an accompanying adult will be invited to attend the official cupcake judging at 9 a.m. on Saturday, July 27, at JAX Cooking Studio, 14035 Beach Blvd., Suite 6.

• Bountiful baking basket with Sugar Snob chocolates.

Following the competition, names of winners will be posted on WomensFoodAlliance.com.

The 1st runner-up will receive:

• A $15 gift certificate to Mr. Potato Spread.

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The 2nd runner-up will receive: • Sunday Brunch for four at the Casa Marina Hotel, Jacksonville Beach.

• A $15 gift certificate to Mr. Potato Spread.

Beat the Heat with Summer Salad It’s not only refreshing but has a nice mixture of carbohydrates and protein to keep you (and your kids) energized longer.

This is a great recipe to make with children. Younger children can toss the ingredients together and older children can practice cutting with supervision. And feel free to add other vegetables of choice (diced green pepper or banana peppers for example).

Ingredients: • 2, 15-oz cans sweet corn (drained) • 1, 15-oz can of black beans (drained) • 3 large tomatoes on the vine, diced • One large onion, diced • ¼ cup olive oil • 3 tablespoons of Cider Vinegar • Salt and pepper to taste • ¼ cup chopped fresh Cilantro

Directions: In a large bowl, toss gently together the corn, beans, tomatoes, onion, Cilantro, oil, vinegar, salt and pepper. Chill until serving.

JUNE 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 6

Keep Family Food-Safe this Summer!

I t’s summertime again! Beach outings, pool parties and picnics at the park build lasting memories for you and your family. But cold foods and hot weather don’t mix well for very long! That’s why it’s a good time of the year to reflect for a few minutes on food safety.

Foodborne diseases are a major cause of illness and death in the United States. It is estimated that food poisoning will send 100,000 people to the hospital this year and the ones who can suffer the most from foodborne illness include the ones most vulnerable – the elderly, the sick and the very young. The Centers for Disease Control estimates that each year roughly 1 in 6 Americans gets sick from foodborne illness.

Some of the most common culprits? Salmonella, Staph aureus and Listeria bacteria.

If you have meat that is frozen, never thaw the meat on your countertop overnight. During those long hours, the meat can reach room temperature and be in the danger zone for bacterial growth. Instead, plan ahead to thaw frozen meat in the fridge overnight or thaw in the microwave.

COOK

Reducing foodborne illnesses is one of the objectives of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and food safety is one of the guidelines in the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Ensuring that food is safe to eat is a critical part of healthy eating. The four basic food safety principles that work together to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses are Clean, Separate, Cook and Chill. Let’s look at each one a little further.

Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold! If a food is normally eaten at room temperature, then it’s OK to stay out all day. Items such as cookies, raw vegetables (but not the dip), pretzels, fruit, peanut butter (or other nut butters), chips and other snack foods that you keep in your pantry are OK to set out all day.

But foods that need to be kept cold such as potato or macaroni salad, cheese, deviled eggs, lunchmeat and sour cream should be kept on ice and put back in the fridge after 2 hours. Keep hot foods hot as long as possible as well. If perishable foods sit out for 2 hours or more at room temperature, they are in the danger zone – meaning that harmful bacteria can grow on them and then cause illness later for you and your family. And if perishable foods have been out for 4 hours or more at room temperature, they should be thrown out.

CLEAN

CHILL

Always wash your hands before and after handling food, especially raw meats. Teach your children the proper way to wash their hands – for 20 seconds with soap and running water. Cutting boards that are used for cutting raw meat should not be then used to cut fruits and vegetables because of cross-contamination of bacteria from the meat to the produce.

It’s important to wash your meat-cutting boards thoroughly with hot, soapy water or clean them with a bleach-alternative homemade cleanser of lemon juice and baking soda, then rinse with hot water.

Put leftovers in the refrigerator as soon as possible – optimally within 2 hours. You can always pull them out later when people are hungry again.

SEPARATE Never store raw meat on the top shelf of your refrigerator – it may drip juices containing harmful bacteria onto other foods. Always keep raw meats on the bottom shelf until they are ready to be taken out for cooking.

The 2010 Dietary Guidelines also caution that some foods pose a risk of foodborne illness which include raw (unpasteurized) milk and cheese; raw or undercooked animal foods (seafood, meat, poultry, and eggs); and raw sprouts.

For more information on food safety go to the website: foodsafety.gov.

I hope your family has a safe and happy summer! j Aurea Thompson RDN, CSP, LDN Pediatric Nutrition Specialist Wolfson Children’s Hospital

HEALTH & SAFETY

Little-Known Facts About Sunscreens D

o you depend on sunscreen for skin protection? Millions of Americans do, but they shouldn’t rely on this alone. The rate of melanoma diagnosis is increasing. The consensus among scientists is that sunscreens alone cannot reverse this trend. Yet a good sunscreen can play a role in preventing sunburns that are a major risk factor for melanoma – provided you use it correctly.

These eight little-known facts from Environmental Working Group about sunscreens will help you spot problem products and avoid getting burned.

1. There’s no proof that sunscreens alone prevent skin cancer.

Rates of melanoma – the deadliest form of skin cancer – have tripled over the past 35 years. Most scientists and public health agencies – including the Food and Drug Administration itself – have found little evidence that the use of sunscreens in isolation from other sun protective measures prevents most types of skin cancer.

ents.

5. Sunscreen doesn’t protect skin from all types of sun damage.

SPF measures protection from sunburn, but not other types of skin damage. The sun’s ultraviolet rays also generate free radicals that damage DNA and skin cells, accelerate skin aging, and may cause skin cancer. American sunscreens can reduce these damages, but not as effectively as they prevent sunburn.

6. Some sunscreen ingredients disrupt hormones and cause skin allergies.

Sunscreen ingredients soak through skin and can be detected in people’s blood, urine and even mothers’ breast milk. Several commonly used ingredients appear to block or mimic hormones, and others cause allergic reactions on sensitive skin. The FDA’s sunscreen rules grandfathered in sunscreen active ingredients that were already on the market. The agency has never reviewed evidence of ill effects.

7. Mineral sunscreens contain nanoparticles.

2. Don’t be fooled by high SPF. Most zinc oxide and titanium dioxide-based High-SPF products tempt people to apply too sunscreens contain nanoparticles one-twentilittle sunscreen and stay in the sun too long. eth the width of a human hair, to reduce or The FDA has proposed prohibiting the sale of eliminate the chalky white tint that larger sunscreens with SPF values greater than 50+, particles leave on the skin. Based on the calling higher SPF values “inherently mislead- available information, Environmental Working ing,” but it has not yet issued a regulation that Group gives a favorable rating to mineral carries the force of law. ingredients in sunscreens, but the FDA should restrict the use of unstable or UV-reactive 3. The common sunscreen additive vitamin forms of minerals that would lessen skin A may speed development of skin cancer. protection.

The sunscreen industry adds a form of vitamin A to 12 percent of beach and sport sun8. If you avoid sun, check your vitamin D screens, 15 percent of moisturizers with SPF, levels. and 5 percent of lip products with SPF in this Sunshine causes the body to produce vitamin year’s database.

D, a critical function that sunscreen appears to inhibit. Vitamin D, technically a hormone, 4. European sunscreens provide better UVA strengthens bones and the immune system protection. and reduces risks of breast, colon, kidney and Nearly every sunscreen sold in the U.S. claims ovarian cancers, and perhaps other disorders. to offer “broad spectrum” protection, which About 25 percent of Americans have bordersuggests they shield against harmful UVA rays. line low levels of vitamin D, and 8 percent But many products are too weak to be sold in have a serious deficiency. Breast-fed infants, Europe, where standards are higher. In people with darker skin and people who have Europe, sunscreen makers can formulate their limited sun exposure are at greatest risk of products with four chemicals that offer vitamin D deficiency. j stronger protection from UVA rays. American manufacturers have been waiting for years for ewg.org FDA approval to use these sunscreen ingredi-

Things to Do Health & Safety

athletes age 12 and under will receive participation ribbons. The Bolles School / 7400 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32217 / www.jtc.wildapricot.org St. Johns County Kids Triathlon: Rivertown June 8, 9am to 12noon Kids ages 6 to 14 are invited to participate in a triathlon at RiverTown. The events will be chip timed and distances are based on the age of the child.

Participants will need to supply their own bikes and must wear a helmet to participate. The events will go off in waves. Kids triathlon participants will get a racing bib, race shirt, finishers medal, and photograph of the event. RiverTown Community / 904-665-0567 / 90 Lanier Street, St. Johns, FL 32259 / www.floridaraceday.com

Kids Roam Free Yoga • Tuesdays, June 4, 11, 18, 25, 10:30am to 11:30am Big Fish Yoga hosts their newest class addition, Kids Roam Free. This will be a 60 minute Power Flow class for parents and baby up to ages 2.5 years. Bring the bucket seats, strollers, or the bouncy seats and enjoy class while your baby is comfortable and safe. Drop in classes are $17, with options for monthly pricing.

Big Fish Yoga / 904-372-0601 / 3852 South Third Street, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / www. bigfishpoweryoga.com Weekly Yoga at Belly Bean Maternity Fridays, June 7, 14, 21, 28, 9am to 10am Belly Bean Maternity and Beyond hosts a weekly yoga class. Courtney is a Certified and Registered Yoga Alliance Instructor and has designed this yoga class to be the perfect combination to relax the mind, stretch tight muscles, and invigorate the spirit. Each pose done in this class will be clearly demonstrated and explained; no more wondering if you are “doing it right”. Safety and correct form is the number one priority, which makes this a great class for beginners.

Purchase online for a discounted rate, or pay $15 dollars at the door the morning of.

Belly Bean Maternity & Beyond / 904-849-1667 / 463646 Florida 200, Suite #1, Yulee, FL 32097 / www.bellybeanmaternity.com JTC Running’s 2019 Track Series June 8, 8am; June 22, 8am JTC hosts a summer track series. Events include long jump, 100, 1600, 200, 4x100, pole vault, and more. Entry to all meets is free of charge to all pre-registered on line participants. Free on line registration will close at 6pm the Friday preceding each meet. One time registration enters an athlete in all meets. Age groups: 0-5, 6-7, 8-9, 10-12, 13-15, 16-19, and adult categories. Those not pre-registered will be charged $5 for day of meet registration. Bib pickup and day of meet registration will open one hour prior to first event. Awards: Medals will be given to the top three in each individual event. No medals for relay teams. All

Run for the Pies 5k • June 8, 7:30pm The annual Run for the Pies will be held this year in Hemming Park. The open 5K begins at 7:30pm, followed by a block party at 8pm. There will also be a pie eating contest, prizes, giveaways, awards, custom finisher medals, and more. Registration ranges from $30 to $40. Hemming Park / 904270-2221 / 135 West Monroe Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.1stplacesports.com Normandy Park ER Community Open House Event • June 15, 9am to 12noon Orange Park Medical Center hosts an open house at their Normandy Park ER. The family-friendly day will celebrate the grand opening of the new emergency room with the Teddy Bear Clinic, tours, food and refreshments. Free.

Normandy Park ER / 904-639-8500 / 5573 Normandy Park Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32205 / www. orangeparkmedical.com 2019 Velobrew-FSCJ Crit Series June 30, 7am to 12noon VeloBrew Racing hosts a series of three cycling races for juniors and adults. Registration opens at 7:15am. Kids ages 10 and under can race for free, but must fill out a USAC Waiver. Juniors race registration is $10. One Day USAC Licenses available for $10. Annual Licenses also available. FSCJ Cecil Truck Driving Range / 5640 New World Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32221 / www.legacy.usacycling.org

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

JUNE 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 7

HEALTH & SAFETY

How to Treat the Summer Cold

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lthough most colds in children don’t cause serious complications, they can cause anxiety in parents and caregivers. And colds are among the top reasons children visit a doctor. Both non-prescription (over-thecounter) and prescription medicines are available to treat cough and cold symptoms.

But most children will get better on their own and may not need medicine.

Some cough and cold medicines also have serious side effects, such as slowed breathing, which can be life-threatening, especially in infants and young children, so it’s important to know when your child needs medication and when they can do without it.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration wants you to be aware of the following information about use of medicines for cough and colds in children:

• The FDA doesn’t recommend over-thecounter (OTC) medicines for cough and cold symptoms in children younger than 2 years old. • Prescription cough medicines containing

codeine or hydrocodone are not indicated for use in children younger than 18 years old. Codeine and hydrocodone are opioids that are available in combination with other medicines, such as antihistamines and decongestants, in prescription medicines to treat cough and symptoms associated with allergies or the common cold for adults. • Caregivers should also read labels on OTC cough and cold products, because some might contain codeine.

Here are some other tips on how to safely treat your child’s cough and cold.

Relieving Cold and Cough Symptoms • There’s no cure for the common cold, a viral infection that can’t be treated with antibiotics. Typically, a cold will run its course in a week or two, and children will usually get better on their own, without medication. For older children, some nonprescription medicines can help relieve the symptoms of a cold—but won’t change the natural course of the cold or make it go away faster.

• Coughs are a normal symptom of a cold and help the body clear the mucus out of the airway and protect the lungs. Non-drug treatments for coughs include drinking plenty of fluids, especially warm drinks to soothe the throat.

When to Call a Doctor

Not every sniffle or cough merits a trip to the doctor’s office. When in doubt, parents should call their health care provider.

For all children, call a doctor if you see any of these symptoms:

• A fever in an infant 2 months or younger • A fever of 102 degrees or higher at any age • Blue lips • Labored breathing, including nostrils widening with each breath, wheezing, fast breathing, the ribs showing with each breath or shortness of breath • Not eating or drinking, with signs of dehydration (such as decreased urination) • Excessive crankiness or sleepiness • Persistent ear pain • If the cough lasts for more than three weeks • If the child is getting worse

These symptoms can signal that your child may have something more serious than a cold.

What to Do About Fever and Other Symptoms Associated With a Cold

Fever helps the body fight off an infection and does not always need to be treated. However, if your child is uncomfortable because of fever or other symptoms of a cold, there are alternatives to cough and cold medicine to help them feel more comfortable. They include:

• A clean cool-mist vaporizer or humidifier in a small area near the child’s bed can help moisten the air and decrease the drying of the nasal passages and throat. • For infants with a stuffy nose, use saline or saltwater drops/spray to moisten nasal passages and loosen mucus. Then clean the nose with a bulb syringe or other suction tool designed for infants. • Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce fever, aches and pains. Take care to use the correct dose, consulting a health care provider for patients younger than age 2. j FDA.gov

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JUNE 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 8

ADVANCED DENTISTRY & FACIAL ESTHETICS

NATURE

World Reef Day M

ark your calendars, there’s a new observance of an important environmental issue in the works.

June 1 will be the first inaugural World Reef Day. An occasion designed to reflect on the increasingly precarious state of the ocean’s coral reefs.

“The launch of World Reef Day is the culmination of a lifelong dream of ours to make a difference on this planet through awareness, education and positive action,” said Brian Guadagno, founder, and CEO of Raw Elements USA. “As consumers become more aware of the perils facing our oceans, we want to empower them to initiate simple changes in their daily lives, such as using reef-safe sunscreen and reducing plastic waste, which will have an enormous impact on the planet.”

World Reef Day will kick-off a full month of activities focused on the environment and designed to spur conversations and actions to support sustainability.

Things to Do Nature Events

License Free Fishing Days June 1-2 and June 8-9 Free fishing days provide an excellent opportunity for parents who don’t yet have licenses to take youth fishing, or avid anglers to introduce a friend to fishing without having to purchase a license.

On these days, the fishing license requirement is waived for all recreational anglers (residents and non-residents). All other rules (e.g., seasons, bag and size limits) apply. The saltwater waiver applies to any recreational harvest requiring a saltwater fishing license (e.g., crabbing, lobstering, scalloping, etc.) as well as fishing from shore or a boat. A snook or spiny lobster permit are not required on these days.

License-Free Saltwater Days, Saturday/Sunday, June 1-2; License-Free Freshwater Days, Saturday/Sunday, June 8-9.

Florida Fish and Wildlife / www.myfwc.com Junior Ranger Camp • June 5, 8am to 12noon; June 19, 8am to 12noon Children ages 6-10 will participate in activities that focus on the outdoors and work toward earning a Junior Ranger badge during this three day camp.

Activities include outdoor survival skills, hiking, birding, fishing, and more. Space is limited and registration is required. Cost is $65, plus $5 parking fee. Crooked River State Park / 912-287-4900 / 6222 Charlie Smith Senior Highway, St. Marys, GA 31558 / explore.gastateparks.org

The new annual event has already been recognized by the National Day Calendar Association and was inspired by new legislation that will go into effect in Hawaii and Key West, Florida, in January 2021 banning the use of sunscreens that contain oxybenzone and octinoxate, two chemicals that have been shown to be very harmful to coral reefs.

World Reef Day hopes to raise awareness regarding how reefs are hurt by sunscreens as well as industrial pollution, plastic pollution, and sewage. “Two easy steps we can take to protect these precious resources are by wearwearing non-nano zinc oxide sunscreen and reducing our use of plastics that contribute to marine plastic pollution,” said forensic ecotoxicologist Dr. Craig Downs, whose 2015 study found oxybenzone was a threat to reefs.

Organizers are also encouraging consumers and businesses to get involved with organizations that are making a difference in the future of coral reefs. j travelpulse.com Family Seining • June 8, 9am to 11am Visitors will get the chance to pull a seine net through Guana Lake, collecting species of fish, crabs and more, and then learn about the animals and their roles in the habitat. All necessary gear, including waders and boots, will be provided.

There is a $3 per vehicle parking fee. The event is free. Please meet the guides at Guana Dam Recreational Area. They will be located at either the north or south boat launch, depending on the tide.

For more information, call 904-823-4500 or click here to reserve a spot online. GTM Research Reserve / 904-823-4500 / 505 Guana River Rd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www.gtmnerr.org The Best Summer: Jacksonville Zoo June 20, 4pm to 5pm The Jacksonville Zoo is coming and bringing live animal ambassadors with them. Kids ages 4 and up are invited to come learn about reptiles, mammals, amphibians and birds. This program begins at 4pm. Tickets are free and can be collected at the Children’s Desk beginning at 3pm the day of the program. There is a maximum attendance of 75 people (kids and adults) for this event. Only ticket holders can be guaranteed entrance. Due to the restricted space, strollers will not be allowed inside the room during the program.

St. Johns County Public Library, Main Branch / 904-827-6940 / 1960 N. Ponce De Leon Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.sjcpls.org

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

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alhambrajax.com JUNE 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 9

INFANT & TODDLER Poll Reveals Speech-Hearing Concerns

O

ne quarter of U.S. parents of children ages 0–8 have had concerns about their child’s ability to communicate, according to a recent poll by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). At the same time, parents who were polled overwhelmingly agree that speech, language, and hearing developmental milestones are among the most important in life.

This nationally representative poll of more than 1,100 parents revealed perceptions of communication and communication disorders among the most populous racial and ethnic groups – white, black or African American, and Hispanic households. Most common among parents were concerns about speech development, followed by language concerns and then hearing-related worries.

Besides parents’ concerns about their children’s ability to communicate, the poll revealed the actions that parents took.

Seventy-three percent of all parents who had concerns sought treatment, with 8 in 10 of those reporting that they perceived “a great deal” or “a good amount” of improvement after treatment. Speech-language pathologists headed the list of professionals that parents sought help from for their children’s speech and language issues; for hearing problems, pediatricians were the most commonly consulted, followed closely by audiologists.

pediatricians telling them that their children would grow out of the problem; a child’s school or teacher saying there wasn’t a problem; parents thinking that the concern didn’t seem like a big deal; and parents not knowing where to start or who to contact.

In addition, whether parents had concerns or not, the polling suggests that too many families are in the dark about communication disorders and are not doing all that they can to foster the development of their children’s communication skills.

Just 23% of parents were able to correctly identify 75% or more of the signs of communication disorders provided in the survey. And just 5% were able to correctly identify all the signs of communication disorders provided.

In terms of fostering the development of communication skills, 9 in 10 respondents correctly identified activities that have a positive impact on communication skills, such as talking/having verbal interactions with others and being read to by family members.

However, in practice, only 46% said that their children are read to 5–7 days a week.

Infant & Toddler

Bumps and Bagels: Birth Bag 101: Online Event June 4, 10am to 11am Total Mom Wellness hosts a free online webinar on what to pack in your birth bag. Class will be live and spots are limited. There will be a Q &A session after the webinar is finished, and everyone will be sent a checklist afterwards. Make sure to RSVP so that they can plan according. Free. Total Mom Wellness / 904-718-1808 / totalmomwellness.com Baby University • June 27, 6pm to 8pm This course will focus on supporting, educating, and providing resources to parents who have children ages 0-5, to ensure that the children are developmentally ready to succeed in the core areas of: Social and Emotional, Language and Communication, Early Learning and Literacy, Physical, Maternal Health & Well-Being and Positive Parenting Partnerships. Held in the Center for the Prevention of Health Disparities Building at Edward Waters College. Edward Waters College / 904390-2960 / 1401 Grunthal Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209 / dcps.duvalschools.org Little Learners at MOSH June 12, 9:30am to 11:30am Bring your little ones to MOSH on the second Wednesday of every month for exclusive programming designed for learning and development and watch them grow. These programs encompass various learning styles and activities for preschool

aged children that help to enhance their skills and dexterity. All activities are designed to encourage caregivers to engage their little ones in conversations and to work with them through each station.

Please note that Little Learners encourages child/ caregiver interaction and requires one registered adult per two children. Due to the popularity of these events, we highly recommend you register in advance to guarantee your place. Once online availability is gone, no further tickets will be sold at the door. (Caregivers must register themselves and their children for each month’s program).

Admission is $6/person for ages 3 and up. The June class will be It’s great to be ME!, and the July class will be Uh-Oh Dino: Jurassic MOSH!.

Museum of Science and History / 904-396-6674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org Baby Care Basics • June 15, 9:30am to 3:30pm This class will teach you the practical and essential skills needed for your newborn during the first three months after birth. These skills include all the basics of infant care from diapering and bathing (using demonstration dolls), safe swaddling/ sleeping, infant massage, comfort cues, feeding tips and when to call the doctor. What to buy for baby will be discussed as well. You do not have to be a Baptist Health patient to attend the class.

Space is limited. Cost is $55 per couple.

Y Healthy Living Center Riverside / 904-202-2229 / 221 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.baptistjax.com

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

More than half of all parents said that not enough information about communication disorders is available.

“Our polling also showed that some parents may not fully trust their own instincts – less “This poll offers a rich picture of how U.S. than half (42%) strongly agreed that they households view communication development, know their child and their child’s needs the communication disorders, and treatment,” best. I would encourage them to trust ASHA President Shari Robertson said. “While themselves more and get professional help it is encouraging that parents across the board right away if they sense something is wrong. reported that they often seek help from our Early intervention is absolutely key.” professionals and see their children’s communication health improve significantly For more information about the signs of with treatment, the polling also found that communication disorders and related topics, more than one quarter of parents with visit identifythesigns.org. concerns hadn’t sought treatment. This is far too many when it comes to communication ASHA is the national professional, scientific, health, something parents themselves strongly and credentialing association for 204,000 agreed is important to their children’s members and affiliates who are audiologists; well-being. Since communication disorders speech-language pathologists; speech, are highly treatable, this is an especially language, and hearing scientists; audiology unfortunate missed opportunity for those and speech-language pathology support children.” personnel; and students. j According to the poll results, the top reasons parents gave for not seeking treatment were uncertainty about where to get treatment;

Things to Do

asha.org

JUNE 2019 • 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.

Early

Learning Coalition North Florida

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JUNE 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 11

SPECIAL NEEDS

Apps to Help Special Needs

T

echnology has the power to unlock learning for kids of all ages and stages.

And sometimes exploring and learning on a device first is less intimidating than trying out new skills with real people. Check out these apps that help kids with communication, organization, and even social-awareness skills -- and watch the video to learn more about how to choose media and tech products for kids with learning differences.

images, and their own drawings and then connect to other related Popplets to create an interactive outline of related ideas.

Calm Counter – Social Story and Anger Management Tool This ingenious app helps kids with special needs, social challenges, anxiety, or anger issues learn self-awareness as they begin to identify when they “need a break” and practice calming down.

Social Detective Through video and a comprehensive, step-bystep process, kids can learn about expected vs. unexpected behaviors in a variety of everyday situations. Because the videos include real kids and the app offers practical tips, users will be able to identify with and apply what they learn.

Flummoxvision – Watch Flummox and Friends on your IPad For kids who like a little humor, this series of videos and questions offers a unique approach to learning about social skills. When used with an adult or with a group of kids who can interact around the content, the learning potential will expand and have even more impact.

The Social Express II This excellent animated app boosts kids’ social-awareness skills. Kids can learn to identify how their peers are feeling, develop coping strategies, recognize the importance of eye contact, and learn a host of core social skills needed to function in daily life.

FTVS HD – First Then Visual Schedule HD With its simple, multisensory interface, this app has great potential for use with kids with developmental or learning disabilities, anxiety or attention issues, and language, hearing, or processing difficulties.

Kid in Story Book Maker By creating social stories, kids can work with expectations and practice before events actually happen. The special features are particularly helpful for kids who may need to see themselves encountering situations, such as a visit to the dentist, in storybook form before encountering them in real life.

Peppy Pals Sammy Helps Out Though this social-emotional skill builder is designed for young kids, older kids who struggle with social situations and empathy also might find it helpful. Best used with a parent or teacher, this app provides built-in discussion questions to help guide kids so they can take their learning offscreen.

Popplet This mind-mapping tool is especially helpful for kids who have problems with organization and visual memory. Kids can insert words,

Proloquo2Go This extraordinary communication aid is great for kids who have basic to severe speech challenges. Kids can learn how to effectively convey wants, needs, feelings, opinions, social manners, and more.

Avaz Pro Augmentative and alternative communication app empowers nonverbal kids to communicate and customize. Color coding and child-friendly voices make it a go-to. Comes preloaded with everyday words, such as “stop,” “yes,” “no,” and “sorry.”

Fun With Directions HD This easy-to-use, interactive app can help kids understand a variety of directional concepts.

Three levels meet a variety of needs for kids with cognitive or intellectual disabilitie ABA Flash Cards & Games – Emotions Identifying and understanding emotions are crucial life skills. This collection includes 50 concrete, colorful images of the 10 most basic emotions. Five examples of each feeling help teach basic emotions in a consistent way with repetitive practice.

Avokiddo Emotions This easy-to-use, friendly app can be great for kids who need help understanding that emotions can be detected by facial expressions. This is particularly important for kids who are nonverbal or on the autism spectrum.

Choiceworks A platform for kids who need help with

JUNE 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 12

Music Therapist Takes on New Role

executive functioning to explore topics such as schedules, waiting, and feelings. It uses inda Gordon, a music therapist who for pictures, checklists, storyboards, and more 33 years worked with children with and comes loaded with one board for each special needs at Cunningham Creek Elementatopic, but it’s infinitely customizable. ry in St. Johns County, is now the Sound Connections Coordinator at the Cultural Center Bugs and Buttons 2 Fun games help kids practice their pincer of Ponte Vedra Beach. grasp, eye-hand coordination, touch-and-drag motion, and more. Kids with dyspraxia and other fine motor issues may benefit, as games are designed by level, which helps them complete one-step motor tasks.

M

Dexteria Dots – Get in Touch with Math This exceptional math app can be great for young kids who may be dysgraphic or have fine motor difficulties. The hand and finger exercises, along with fun animation and music, can help kids with a wide range of abilities build math skills and improve fluency. j commonsensemedia.org

Sound Connections is an outreach program founded, funded, and run by the Cultural Center that has provided music therapy to children with special needs in local schools since 2006.

In this new role, Gordon oversees the music therapy program for St. Johns County. Her new responsibilities include overseeing, training, coaching, and evaluating music therapists, as well as fundraising, grant writing, and developing and sustaining an internship program. She will continue her work as a board-certified music therapist within the Sound Connections outreach program.

Gordon is also the new president-elect of the Southeast Region of the American Music Therapy Association. She will serve as president-elect for two years, after which she will become the association’s president for two years. The association includes members from Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Kentucky, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Florida.

The Cultural Center at Ponte Vedra Beach, a 501(c)(3) non-profit arts organization whose mission is to bring the arts into the life of the community through arts education, exhibition, and outreach, and by honoring a donor-driven philosophy. The Cultural Center is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. j

SPECIAL NEEDS Special Needs Summer Camps ECC Summer Academy for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Students • June 9-14, 2019 (ages 9-12) & June 16-21, 2019 (ages 13-16) The Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind will host two Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC) Summer Academies during June 2019 on its St. Augustine campus – at no cost for eligible Florida students who are deaf or hard of hearing. Both academies focus on several areas including leadership, self-advocacy, digital citizenship, and career education skills development. Participants will enjoy a variety of recreation and leisure activities including social experiences. Academy presenters and instructors are certified teachers trained to work with students who are deaf or hard of hearing. Important Note: Not available to currently enrolled FSDB students. Application forms are available in English and Spanish.

For more information, please contact FSDB Deaf Department Principal Angela Saunders at 904-827-2500 Voice, 904-201-4570 VP or via email. The Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind / 904-827-4255/ 207 N. San Marco Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.fsdbk12.org/summer-programs ECC Summer Academy for Blind/Visually Impaired Students June 16-28, 2019 (Ages 9-16) The Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind (FSDB) will host a two-week Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC) Summer Academy during June 2019 on its St. Augustine campus – at no cost for eligible Florida students who are blind or visually impaired. The Academy focuses on several areas including assistive technology, orientation and mobility, and daily living skills development. Participants will enjoy a variety of recreation and leisure activities including social experiences. Academy presenters and instructors are certified teachers as well as orientation and mobility specialists trained to work with students who are blind or visually impaired. Important Note: Not available to currently enrolled FSDB students. Application forms are available in English and Spanish. For more information, please contact FSDB Blind Department Principal Carol Bogue at 904-8272701 or via email. The Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind / 904-827-4255/ 207 N. San Marco Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.fsdbk12.org/summer-programs Jericho School Intensive Summer Program July 2 - August 2, 2019 This is not a Summer Camp where your child learns new arts and crafts. This will be four

weeks of intensive Applied Behavior Analysis and Verbal Behavior services for children with developmental disabilities. Each child will receive a comprehensive and Individualized Program with identified goals and objectives for acquisition of targeted skills. You can choose a two week program or take advantage of all four weeks for the Intensive Individualized Summer Program.

904-744-5110 / 1351 Sprinkle Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32211 / www.thejerichoschool.org Keystone Summer Camp at Mosaic Day School • June 3 – August 2, 2019 8:30am – 2:30pm Extended care available.

Serving ages 2-22 with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This summer camp program is a high-quality program that provides instruction in a low student-to-therapist ratio, with behavior therapists trained in the methodologies and best practices of Applied Behavior Analysis. Participants can expect to explore daily living skills, problem solving, and team building through science, music and the arts all catered around the weekly themes.

Water play, bounce houses, and weekly excursions can also be expected. Cost: $250/week, $25/week activity fee, one-time registration fee of $50.

904-619-6071 / 6867 Southpoint Dr N, Jacksonville, FL 32216 / www.keystonebehavioral.com Angelwood Summer Camp June 24 - July 26, 2019 9am - 3pm Extended Hours are available Ages 5 – 22. Angelwood Summer Day Camp is for school age children with developmental disabilities such as Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, Spina Bifida, and Intellectual Disabilities. This program is packed full of fun and offers children with developmental disabilities an opportunity to enjoy summer activities in a safe environment with programs designed with their special needs in mind.

All aspects of camping such as arts & crafts, music, and recreation are used to help your child to explore areas such as: Recreation & Leisure, Social Skills, Increased awareness of their world and having safe, healthy FUN! Cost: Weeks 1, 3, & 4: $250 per camper, per week Week 2: $200 per camper, per week.

904-288-7259 / 4001 Hendricks Ave, Jacksonville, 32207 / www.angelwoodjax.org

Things to Do

CARD/FDLRS Satellite Clinic – St. Johns County • June 4, 9am to 3pm The UF-Jacksonville Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) and the UF-JacksonJumpstreet Special Needs Event ville Florida Diagnostic & Learning Resources June 1, 9am to 10am System Multi-Disciplinary Center (FLDRS-MDC) Jumpstreet hosts a special event for children offer clinics to outlying counties in order to more with special needs and their siblings. The effectively serve their constituents. Sign up for semi-private event will be held the first Sata consultative appointment with clinicians who urday of the month. From 9am to 10am, the specialize in child psychology, behavior therapy, event is private; from 10am to 11am, the event academic interventions, Autism Screeners, is open to the public. Cost is $8 for children 5 Transition, and more. Appointments are at no and up; $4 for children 4 and under. Parents/ cost to the family. guardians are free.

The Webster School / 904-633-0816 / 420 North Jumpstreet / 904-853-5721 / 1214 Beach Blvd, Orange Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / card-usf.fmhi.usf.edu www.gotjump.com Sensory Art Class at Sensory Towne Arc Jacksonville Block Party Wednesdays, June 5, 12, 19, 26, 10am to June 1, 8am to 4pm 12noon ARC Jacksonville is a community empowering Sensory Fun Art Class every Wednesday morning people with developmental differences. Their at 10am. Regular admission includes 1 hour of big summer Block Party and Yard Sale will be open play after art class. There will be a new will feature games, food, and a variety of items project and sensory fun each week. Cost is $12, for sale. and $8 for siblings.

Arc Jacksonville / 904-355-0155 / 3675 Kirbo Sensory Towne / 904-551-6443 / 8380 BayWay, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / meadows Road Suite 6, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / www.arcjacksonville.org www.sensorytowne.com

Special Needs Events

All Abilities Night at iFLY Jacksonville June 3, 5pm to 8pm All Abilities Night at iFLY is a unique event that makes the dream of flight a reality for those in the special needs community. This program has been custom designed for those with physical and cognitive challenges to create an environment of support and inclusion, while focusing on making what seems impossible, possible. For more details and to reserve your spot, contact iFLY at 904-712-3388 or sales@ iflyjacksonville.com. Everyone in the special needs community is welcome to participate.

Event package includes a pre-flight training session, and all the necessary flight gear (suit, helmet, goggles). Each flyer will be assisted by specially trained Flight Instructors during the event with extra attention and accommodations based on participant needs. Each flyer receives 2 flights (1 minute each) for $39.95 and a free video. iFLY / 904-712-3388 / 10579 Brightman Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.iflyworld.com

HEAL Surf Camp June 18-19, 8:30am to 11:30am The 14th annual HEAL Surf Camp will be held in Neptune Beach. The camp welcomes 30 participants with autism, who are paired with qualified volunteer surf instructors to learn the basics of surfing, enjoy paddle boarding, kayaks and boogie boards. Over 120 volunteers, including lifeguards, Neptune Beach Police Officers, surf instructors and locals donate their time to ensure the two-day camp is safe, enjoyable and memorable for the participants. Soft surf boards, boogie boards, sea kayaks, and SUP boards will be provided for use to the participants at no charge. The camp is held at the end of Atlantic Blvd.

HEAL Autism / 904-716-4198 / Atlantic Blvd, Neptune Beach, FL 32266 / www.healautismnow.org

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

A different way of teaching. A better way of learning.

Grades middle through high school Low student to teacher ratio Standard and Honors curriculum Multi-sensory instruction Wetlands trials and outdoor classrooms McKay, Gardiner, Hope and Florida Tax Credit Scholarship participant Accredited by the Florida Council of Independent Schools

To learn more visit our website or call greenwoodjax.org 904-726-5000

Now enrolling students for 2019-2020 school year. Call for a campus tour.

JUNE 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 13

SUMMER GUIDE

Summer Deals Bruster’s Free Baby Cone and Doggie Sundaes Participating area Bruster’s offers free Doggie Sundaes for all dogs, and a free baby cone for kids 40” or under (42” or under at the Jacksonville location).

Bruster’s / brusters.com Jacksonville Location / 904-221-1441 / 12224 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225 Mandarin Location / 904-886-1995 / 1170160 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 Oakleaf Location / 904-771-0722 / 9590 Applecross Road, Jacksonville, FL 32222 St. Augustine Location / 904-679-3652 / 3501-G Ponce De Leon Blvd., St. Augustine, FL 32084

Hang $10 Thursdays at Adventure Landing Thursdays, June 6, 13, 20, 27, This summer, Adventure Landing in Jacksonville Beach hosts Hang $10 Thursdays. Every Thursday from June 6th to August 8th (excluding July 25), from 5pm-8pm, enjoy discounted waterpark admission for $10.99.

Adventure Landing / 904-246-4386 / 1944 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / www.adventurelanding.com

Tag Children’s Museum: Water Works June 7, 9am to 11:30am and 1pm to 4pm Tag! You’re an Earth Scientist! Join the tag! team of mad scientists for adventures with water as you explore the mystery, magic, and power of water. Split water, explore salinity, construct a water wheel, and design water runs. Be sure to dress for a mess. Cost is $15 per child. From 9am to 11:30am, the event will be for ages 6 to 8; from 1pm to 4pm, ages 9 to 12 are invited to attend.

Tag Children’s Museum of St. Augustine / 904647-1757 / 76 Dockside Drive Suite 105, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.tagmuseum.org

Gluten Free or Vegan Cupcake Special Thursdays, June 6, 13, 20, 27, Sweet By Holly offers their gluten free and vegan cupcakes for $2 each every Thursday.

Sweet By Holly / 904-564-2711 / 4624 Town Crossing Dr., Suite 137, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / sweetbyholly.com

Little Lightners: Degas, Prints and I June 9, 10am to 11:30am, and 2pm to 3:30pm Children aged 5 – 14 are invited to tour and learn about the different types of prints Mini Mania Monday on view in the Museum’s collection and in Mondays, June 3, 10, 17, 24, the Edgar Degas: The Private Impressionist Every Monday, mini cupcakes at Sweet By exhibition. Lightner museum educators will Holly are $1 each. There are dozens of flavors Beaches Rock Gym Friday Kids Climb provide a richer understanding of the types of to choose from, including key lime, s’mores, Fridays, June 7, 14, 21, 28, printmaking while encouraging young visitors German chocolate, and more.

Beaches Rock Gym hosts Kids Climb on Sweet By Holly / 904-564-2711 / 4624 Town Fridays. From 1pm to 5pm, kids ten and under to truly look and appreciate why artists choose Crossing Dr., Suite 137, Jacksonville, FL receive a $10 day pass and free shoe rentals. to work in their selected print media. The tour 32246 / sweetbyholly.com Beaches Rock Gym / 904-222-0707 / 14 West will be followed by an enjoyable printmaking activity. Little Lightners (ages 5 – 9 accom3rd Street, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 / www. panied by an adult) will meet from 10am to Florida Blue Free Tuesdays at the Cummer beachesrockgym.com 11:30am, and Lightner Leaders (ages 10 – Museum June 4, 11, 18, 25, National Flip Flop Day at Tropical Smoothie 14) will meet from 2pm to 3:30pm. Tickets are $5 for children with an additional $5 fee Every Tuesday, enjoy free admission to the June 14, 2pm to 7pm above the normal admission price for parents Cummer Museum and its historic Gardens, Wear flip flops, and get a free 16oz Sunshine living outside of St. Johns County and $5 thanks to the generous support of Florida Blue. Smoothie™ and give back to a great cause, for St. Johns County residents. Reservations Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens / 904-356- Camp Sunshine from 2pm-7pm. are required and space is limited. Lightner 6857 / 829 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL Area Tropical Smoothie Locations / www.

Museum / 904-824-2874 / 75 King Street, St. 32204 / www.cummermuseum.org tropicalsmoothiecafe.com Augustine, FL 32084 / lightnermuseum.org

Hands-On Fun Fun

Michael’s Camp Creativity June 10 – 10am to 12noon This summer, Michael’s Stores hosts Camp Home Depot Kids Workshop and Cheese; Kicked up Sloppy Joe Sliders, Creativity, where kids 3 and up can participate June 1, 9am to 12noon Fully Loaded Twice Baked Cauli-Tatos; Milk Offered the first Saturday of each month. All Chocolate Magic Mousse with Chantilly Cream. in weekly themed projects. Sign up in advance; cost is $3 for each 30 minute session. kids get to keep their craft, receive a free Cost is $75 for each parent/child combo. certificate of achievement, a Workshop Apron, Publix Aprons Cooking School / 904-262-4187 Held Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, from and a commemorative pin while supplies last. / 10500 San Jose Blvd Ste 36, Jacksonville, FL 10am to 12noon. A different project will be featured each day. A parent or guardian must Kids can build their project, and finish it with 32257 / www.publix.com remain on site. paint. Free for kids 5 to 12. June’s project is building a putting green Tag Children’s Museum: There’s Something Week 1 - Fantasy Creatures - June 10, 12, 14 Week 2 - Zoo Adventures - June 17, 19, 21 Area Home Depot Stores / Fishy Going On Here Week 3 - Jungle Journey - June 24, 26, 28 www.homedepot.com June 5, 1pm to 3:30pm Tag! You’re an Oceanographer! Join Storyteller Area Michael’s Stores / www.michaels.com Big & Little Chef: Veggies Debra Weller and the tag! Team for an afterJune 1, 10am noon of exploring mysterious, beautiful ocean Color Me Mine Summer Workshops Color Me Mine host several summer workBig Chef, Little Chef series classes are decreatures through storytelling, songs, and shops in June Workshops are for ages 6 and signed specifically for a guardian/parent, older hands-on STEAM explorations. Children will up. Snacks will be provided. Cost is $45/day. sibling (18 or older), etc. paired with a young learn the art and science of Gyotaku as they Be sure to sign up in advance. chef. Each pair will work together (along with create their own fish prints. Cost is $15 per June 10, 11am to 2pm -- Hogwarts - Have fun the rest of the students) to create delicious child. Event is geared for ages 6 to 10. recipes that are appropriate for adults and Tag Children’s Museum of St. Augustine / 904- with clay by making your own wand. Different clay techniques will be demonstrated. Kids kids alike. Big Chef must be 18 or older, and 647-1757 / 76 Dockside Drive Suite 105, St. will also be painting a castle and will fuse a the Little Chef age range should be 5–12 years Augustine, FL 32084 / www.tagmuseum.org dragon or princess to it. old. The menu features Squashing Good Mac June 12, 1pm to 4pm -- Myth and Magic -

JUNE 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 14

Kids will be creating a unicorn or a dragon on the plate using a paper tech. There will also be a craft related to the project.

June 17, 11am to 2pm -- Fun in the Sun Participants will painting a turtle chip and dip plate. Kids will be learning a bubble tech while creating the plate. There will also be a craft and they can work with clay.

June 19, 1pm to 4pm -- Under the Sea - Kids will be painting a sea turtle ceramic. There will also be a craft related to theme, games, and kids will watch a documentary on sea animals.

June 26, 1pm to 4pm -- Planet Earth - Kids can paint a lion or an elephant with a special pottery glaze. If time permits, kids will watch a documentary on planet Earth.

Color Me Mine / 904-338-9333 / 10300 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / jacksonville.colormemine.com Mud Mondays June 17, 24 Doing Dishes hosts Mud Mondays. Ages 7 to 15 will create a wheel thrown pot along with a handbuilt project. All projects will take 1-2 weeks to dry and be fired before you can return to paint. Cost is $35 per participant.

The event will take place from 9am to 11am at the St. Johns Studio and 2pm to 4pm at the San Jose Studio.

Doing Dishes Pottery Studio / www.doingdishes.com San Jose Location / 904-730-3729 / 5619 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville FL 32207 Saint Johns Location / 904-824-7774 2220 CR-210 W Suite 309, Saint Johns, FL 32259 Big Chef, Little Chef: Epic Picnic June 22, 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 Extra Crispy Baked Chicken; Italian BLT Pinwheels; Waffle Dessert Pizzas; Homemade Berry Lemonade. Cost is $75 for each parent/child combo.

Publix Aprons Cooking School / 904-262-4187 / 10500 San Jose Blvd Ste 36, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www.publix.com

SUMMER GUIDE

Summer Movies Swim-In Movie June 1, 8:30pm, Jaws, Rated PG June 30, 8:30pm, Trolls, Rated PG Summer Waves will host two swim-in movies this summer. Night Splash tickets are effective beginning at 4pm. All water attractions – except for Frantic Atlantic wave pool – will close at 8pm. The entire park will close following the movie. The movie is free with the purchase of a Night Splash ticket of $15 + tax.

Summer Waves / 912-635-2074 / 210 S. Riverview Drive, Jekyll Island, GA 31527 / www.jekyllisland.com

June 5, 2:30pm to 4:30pm - Lego Movie Part 2, Rated PG June 19, 2:30pm to 4:30pm - How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World, Rated PG The Beaches Branch Library hosts summer family movies where families can beat the heat. Movies are free and open to all ages.

Jacksonville Public Library, Beaches Branch / 904-241-1141 / 600 3rd Street, Neptune Beach, FL 32266 / www.jaxpubliclibrary.org

Monday Movie at the Brentwood Branch Library June 10, 17, 24, 3pm to 5pm Every Monday, attendees will be presented with a selection of movies and they can vote Night Owl Cinema at The Amp St. Augustine on what to watch.

June 2, 8pm - The Wedding Singer, Rated Jacksonville Public Library, Brentwood Branch PG-13 / 904-630-0924 / 3725 Pearl Street, JacksonJune 14, 8pm - Jumanji: Welcome to the ville, FL 32206 / www.jaxpubliclibrary.org Jungle, Rated PG-13 The Amp St. Augustine and Community First Ripley’s Free Summer Movie Series Credit Union of Florida proudly announce the June 12, Smallfoot, Rated PG return of the free, family-friendly summer film June 19, The House With the Clock in its series, “Community First Night Owl Cinema.”

Walls, Rated PG The series is free and open to all ages, with June 26, Ralph Breaks the Internet, Rated PG. free parking and concessions available for All movies begin at 8:30pm at the Colonial Oak purchase. Gates open at 7pm, and the movie Music Park located at 33 St. George Street. will start at 8pm.

Ripley’s Red Trains will provide complimentary St. Augustine Amphitheatre / 904-209-0367 transportation from Ripley’s to St. George / 1340 A1A South, St. Augustine, FL 32080 / Street for all guests. Shuttles begin at 7:30pm. www.staugamphitheatre.com Following the film, the Red Trains will pick Anastasia Island Movie Club June 4, 3:30pm to 5:30pm, SpiderMan: Into the Spide-Verse, Rated PG Free and open to all ages.

St. Johns County Public Library, Anastasia Island Branch / 904-209-3730 / 124 Seagrove Main Street, St. Augustine Beach, FL 32080 / www.sjcpls.org AMC Summer Movie Camp June 5, Trolls, Rated PG June 12, Wonder Park, Rated PG June 19, Hotel Trasnylvania 3, Summer Vacation, Rated PG June 26, Peter Rabbit, Rated PG AMC Theatres offers the Summer Movie Camp.

Get admission to a kid-friendly movie and a KidsPack for $4 plus tax, every Wednesday at 10am. Tickets available at box office only.

KidsPack includes kid-sized popcorn, kidsized fountain drink, and a pack of AMC Frooti Tootis.

AMC Yulee 10 / 904-321-8615 / 96012 Lofton Square Court, Yulee, FL 32097 / www.amctheatres.com Summer Family Movie: Beaches Library

June 21, 8pm - Hotel Transylvania 3, Rated PG Admission is $1/seniors & youth and $2/ adults. The event is limited to the first 350 participants (148 max. allowed in the swimming pool at a time). Gates open at 8pm and the movie starts at approximately 8:30pm.

Palm Coast Aquatics Center / 386-986-4741 / 339 Parkview Drive, Palm Coast, FL 32164 / www.palmcoastgov.com Turner Home Summer Movie Classics Series June 30, 2pm – Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, Rated PG The Florida Theatre hosts a series of classic movies that are G, PG, and PG-13 rated. The cost is $7.50 per movie.

Florida Theatre / 904-355-5661 / 128 East Forsyth Street, Suite 300, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / floridatheatre.com

games, and more. Free.

Seawalk Pavilion / 904-247-6236 / 75 1st Street North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / www.jacksonvillebeach.org Jekyll Island Movie on the Green June 29, 8:30pm, Mary Poppins Returns, Rated PG The Jekyll Island Movie on the Green series features monthly movies at the Jekyll Island Beach Village Green. Families are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets to spread out on the Green. This event is free and open to the public.

Jekyll Island Beach Village Green / 912-6353636 / Ocean View Trail, Jekyll Island, GA 31527 / www.jekyllisland.com

Bumblebee at Seawalk Pavilion June 28, 9pm, Bumblebee, Rated PG-13 The City of Jacksonville Beach hosts a free showing of the movie Bumblebee. Be sure to arrive early, as there will be food vendors,

guests up at the north end of St. George Street and return them to Ripley’s. Seating is provided at the Colonial Oak Music Park, but guests can bring chairs and blankets for seating as well. (No outside food or drinks are allowed at the Colonial Quarter). Tips are appreciated for the Red Train drivers.

Colonial Oak Music Park / 904-829-6545 / 33 St. George Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.ripleys.com

Movies in the Park June 14, 8:45pm, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales, Rated PG-13 Presented by the City of Palm Coast’s Parks and Recreation Department and Flagler Schools. The movie begins at dusk and admission is free. The movie is shown on the big screen in the stage area at the main entrance to the park. All movie goers are encouraged to bring blankets, chairs, picnic baskets, and bug spray.

Central Park in Town Center / 975 Central Avenue, Palm Coast, FL 32137 / www.palmcoastgov.com Dive In Movies

OPENS JUNE 20 For Showtimes and Tickets:

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World Golf Village | I-95 Exit 323 | St. Augustine

JUNE 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 15

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SUMMER GUIDE

Kids Bowl Free Registered kids can bowl two free games every day all summer. Age limit and lane times vary by location. Shoe rental not included; standard shoe rental rates apply. Discounted family passes are also available.

Jacksonville Beach Beach Bowl, 818 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach, FL, 32250 904-249-9849 Thru August 11 Daily, 11am to 4pm St. Augustine Anastasia Bowling Lanes, 3245 A1A S, St Augustine, FL, 32080 904-471-3565 Thru October 31 Daily, Open to Close Jacksonville Batt Family Fun Center, 1838 Cassat Ave, Jacksonville, FL, 32210 904-389-2360 May 12 Thru September 9 Monday, 10:00am – 9:00pm Tuesday, 10:00am – 9:00pm Wednesday, 10:00am – 9:00pm Thursday, 10:00am – 9:00pm Friday, 10:00am – 6:00pm Saturday, 10:00am – 6:00pm Sunday, 11:00am – 9:00pm Jacksonville King Pins Bowling Center, 5310 Lenox Ave. #18, Jacksonville, FL, 32205 904-394-0895 May 13 thru September 8 Monday - Thursday, Open to Close Friday - Saturday, Open to 6pm Sunday, Not available Palatka Putnam Lanes, 3834 Reid St, Palatka, FL, 32177 386-325-8795 Thru October 31 Daily, Open to Close

Palm Coast Palm Coast Lanes, 11 Old Kings Rd. North, Palm Coast, FL, 32137 386-445-4004 Thru August 31 Monday, 9:30am – 12midnight Tuesday, 9:30am – 12midnight Wednesday, 9:30am – 5pm Thursday, 9:30am – 5pm Friday, 9:30am – 6pm Saturday, 9:30am – 6pm Sunday, 9:30am – 12midnight Brunswick The Golden Isles Strike Zone, 380 Millennium Blvd, Brunswick, GA, 31525 912-265-6600 Thru October 31 Monday, Open – 4pm Tuesday, Open – 4pm Wednesday, Open – 4pm Thursday, Open – 4pm Friday, Open – 4pm Saturday, Open – 4pm Sunday, Open – Close Yulee Edwards Bowling Center, 850822 US Hwy 17, Yulee, FL, 32097 904-225-1077 May 28 thru August 5 Monday, 10am to 2pm Tuesday, 10am to 2pm Wednesday, 5pm to 9pm Thursday, 10am to 2pm Friday, 10am to 2pm Saturday-Sunday, Not Available www.kidsbowlfree.com

JUNE 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 16

Movie Releases Dark Phoenix PG-13 Opens June 7 Jean Grey begins to develop incredible powers that corrupt and turn her into a Dark Phoenix. Now the X-Men will have to decide if the life of a team member is worth more than all the people living in the world.

The Secret Life of Pets 2 PG Opens June 7 Continuing the story of Max and his pet friends, following their secret lives after their owners leave them for work or school each day.

Men in Black: International PG-13 Opens June 14 The Men in Black have always protected the Earth from the scum of the universe. In this new adventure, they tackle their biggest threat to date: a mole in the Men in Black organization.

Toy Story 4 G Opens June 21 When a new toy called “Forky” joins Woody and the gang, a road trip alongside old and new friends reveals how big the world can be for a toy.

SUMMER GUIDE

Sporting Events Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Mobile BayBears June 1, 6:35pm The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp take on the Mobile BayBears. Single game tickets start at $5. Tonight will feature Saturday Fireworks and Hurricane Awareness Night. The first 2,000 people through the gates will be going home with an umbrella.

Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville / 904-358-2846 / 301 A Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxshrimp.com Jacksonville Armada vs. Miami United FC June 1, 7pm The Jacksonville Armada FC is Jacksonville’s official North American Soccer League club. Games are played at Patton Park. The matches are free to attend. Parking is first-come, first-serve to the first 300 cars. The bleachers at Patton Park can accommodate up to 900 fans, but fans are also encouraged to bring chairs. Patton Park / 904-438-5661 / 2850 Hodges Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / www.jacksonvillearmada.com Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Montgomery Biscuits • June 7-11 Single game tickets start at $5, with multi-game and group packages available.

June 7, 7:05pm - NAPA Family Fireworks. Red Shirt Friday - Jumbo Shrimp players and staff will wear red each Friday to support the military, and fans

who wear red save $1 on a ticket at the box office or can donate the $1 to the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund.

June 8, 6:35pm - Saturday Fireworks. Jumbo Shrimp Hat Giveaway June 9, 3:05pm - Families can play catch on the field plus Jumbo Shrimp players will be signing autographs. Also, there will be free face painting, balloon animals and Woody and Jesse will be here.

A Story of Toys - Celebrate toy stories with a toy hunt, slinky dogs, curly fries and more. Keep your eyes peeled as green army men may be falling from the sky. There will also be a toy drive to benefit One More Child.

June 10, 7:05pm - VyStar Credit Union Members Buy 1 Get 1 Free. National Ball Point Pen Day-the first 1,000 people through the gates will receive a Jumbo Shrimp pen.

June 11, 12:05pm - Community First Credit Union Two for Tuesday Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville / 904-358-2846 / 301 A Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxshrimp.com Jacksonville Axemen vs Lakeland Renegades June 8, 6pm The Jacksonville Axemen Rugby League team invites fans out for their 2019 season. All home games are played at Hodges Stadium, on the campus on the University of North Florida. Single game tickets start at $10.

Hodges Stadium at UNF / 904-514-8503 / 1 UNF Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / www.jaxaxe.com

Jacksonville Armada vs. Storm FC June 8, 7pm The Jacksonville Armada FC is Jacksonville’s official North American Soccer League club. Games are played at Patton Park. The matches are free to attend. Parking is first-come, first-serve to the first 300 cars. The bleachers at Patton Park can accommodate up to 900 fans, but fans are also encouraged to bring chairs.

Patton Park / 904-438-5661 / 2850 Hodges Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / www.jacksonvillearmada.com Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Pensacola Blue Wahoos • June 20-24 Single game tickets start at $5, with multi-game and group packages available.

June 20, 7:05pm - Boy Band Night - recognize the super groups of the 2000’s.

June 21, 7:05pm - NAPA Family Fireworks. Red Shirt Friday - Jumbo Shrimp players and staff will wear red each Friday to support the military, and fans who wear red save $1 on a ticket at the box office or can donate the $1 to the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund.

June 22, 6:35pm - Saturday Fireworks. Ramen Noodle Appreciation Night - the first 2,000 people through the gates will receive a pillow in the shape of Jumbo Shrimp Flavor ramen noodles. Jumbo Shrimp Flavor ramen will be available at the concession stands.

June 23, 3:05pm - Southpaw’s Birthday - Help throw the biggest birthday party of the year as

local mascots from all over town come out to the Baseball Grounds to help Southpaw celebrate his birthday. Families can play catch on the field plus Jumbo Shrimp players will be signing autographs.

There will also be face painting, balloon animals and your favorite popular kids characters roaming the park.

June 24, 7:05pm - VyStar Credit Union Members Buy 1 Get 1 Free. Canines and Crustaceans (Dog Day)-The Jumbo Shrimp and Standard Feed & Seed welcome you and your canine companion to the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville. Canines get in free as long as their human companion buys a ticket. Dog Free seating is located in sections 110 and 111, the Wheel House Lounge and the BDO Suite Level.

Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville / 904-358-2846 / 301 A Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxshrimp.com Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Chattanooga Lookouts • June 30, 6:35pm Single game tickets start at $5, with multi-game and group packages available.

Families can play catch on the field plus Jumbo Shrimp players will be signing autographs. There will also be face painting, balloon animals and visits with Captain America and Wonder Woman. Don’t forget to stick around for kids run the bases as well.

Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville / 904-358-2846 / 301 A Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxshrimp.com

JUNE 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 17

SUMMER GUIDE

Summer Reading Chuck E. Cheese Reading Rewards Chuck E. Cheese rewards kids who read every day for two weeks. Print out the Reading Rewards Calendar and mark off the days that your child read. Then, bring in the completed calendar to any participating Chuck E. Cheese location to receive ten free tokens. Child(ren) must be present to redeem. Food purchase is required.

Chuck E. Cheese / www.chuckecheese.com

Discover a world 75 million years in the making!

download for a period of 7 days only. Titles, once downloaded, are yours to keep.

Sync Audiobooks / www.audiobooksync.com

Florida Library Youth Program Summer Reading: A Universe of Stories This summer, area libraries are offering free reading programs to encourage summer reading and learning. The theme is A Universe of Stories.

Jacksonville Public Library - Kids of all ages Nemours Reading BrightStart! are encouraged to read this summer. BranchNemours BrightStart!’s mission is to promote es throughout Jacksonville will host events, reading success and prevent reading failure challenges, and more to keep kids and teens for all children, focusing on birth to age 8. reading.

Through innovative programs, research, adSt. Johns County Public Library - The theme vocacy and partnerships, they design and im- at the SJC libraries is The Best Summer at plement unique and highly effective tools and Your Library. Summer reading logs and intraining that consistently yield life-changing centive programs for kids and teens can help results. They feature monthly articles, activikeep skills up. Kids who mark their reading ties, and books, as well as a preschool reading logs can bring them to the library each week screener to determine reading readiness. for a chance to win a giftcard. They will also Nemours Reading BrightStart! / www.reading- offer engaging, fun programs and educational brightstart.org resources to keep your child learning.

Flagler County Public Library - There will 2019 UNF Summer Reading Programs be a variety of entertaining and educational June 8 – August 11 activities at the library this summer.

The University of North Florida offers Summer Nassau County Public Library - Special stoReading Programs for children and adults. rytimes and activities will be offered for ages Programs meet once a week for 5 weeks. birth through teens.

Registration is available online; costs are $249 Clay County Public Library - Area branches for Four-Year-Olds and Entering Kindergartners will host free daily activities including art with a $39 supply fee, and $299 for all other projects, family movies, storytime, hands on age groups, also with a $39 fee. There is demonstrations, crafts, and more. a $30 discount for additional family memJacksonville Public Library / www.jaxpublibers. Classes are taught by instructors from clibrary.org/summer the Institute of Reading Development. The St. Johns County Public Library / summer reading programs are available in www.sjcpls.org Jacksonville, Orange Park and other locations Flagler County Public Library / throughout the area. www.flaglercounty.org UNF Summer Reading / 800-964-8888 / Nassau County Public Library / www.unf.edu nassaureads.com University of North Florida / 1 UNF Drive, Clay County Public Library / Jacksonville, FL 32224 www.claycountygov.com St. Giles Presbyterian Church / 116 Foxridge Rd, Orange Park, FL 32065 Dolly Parton Imagination Library Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is a book Sync Summer Reading Program for Teens gifting program that mails free, high-quality 2019 books to children from birth until they begin Thru August 1 school, no matter their family’s income. Books Sync is a free summer audiobook program for are carefully selected for each age group. teens 13+. Each week, Sync will give away Sign up is available online. two complete audiobook downloads, pairs of Dolly Parton Imagination Library / 865-428high interest titles, based on weekly themes.

9606 / imaginationlibrary.com Downloads are in MP3 format, hosted by OverDrive, and are Mac and Windows compatible.

Each Sync audiobook will be available for

JUNE 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 18

05.25.19 — 09.02.19 Created by

For ages 7-14

SESSION A: June 3-28 SESSION B: July 8-Aug. 2

(904) 396-4425 www.theatrejax.com

Summer Supper

by Rubin Pfeffer (PreK–1) This alliterative delight chronicles a delicious summer meal— from planting, to preparation, to dinnertime. Yum! Summer Walk

by Virginia Snow (PreK–1) What better way to spend a summer day than hunting for bugs? The children in this book find ladybugs, dragonflies, stink bugs, and more during a visit to Grammy’s house.

Captain Jack and the Pirates

by Peter Bently (PreK–1) Summer adventures at the beach are even more fun when kids use their imaginations. A sandpit becomes a pirate ship for Jack and his pals.

A Perfect Day

by Lane Smith (PreK–1) Each animal has its own idea of a perfect summer day, from lounging in the warm sun to cooling off in a refreshing pool. And Bear? Well, Bear likes it all. Ask your kids, “What would happen on your perfect summer day?”

A Lullaby of Summer Things

by Natalie Ziarnik (PreK–1) This rhyming text captures the special feel of a summer evening— everyone’s tired, sandy, and content after a busy day at the beach.

We adore this updated take on The Little Red Hen. When Ruby makes plans for an epic summer fort, none of her brothers are interested—until she builds it, and they see how amazing it is.

The Sandcastle that Lola Built

by Megan Maynor (PreK–2) In this beachthemed version of The House That Jack Built, Lola builds a fantastic sandcastle—and makes a host of new friends in the process.

And Then Comes Summer

by Tom Brenner (PreK–2) Get excited about lazy summer days full of possibility.

Tom Brenner invites kids to delight in seasonal rituals like pumping up bike tires, hosting a lemonade stand, and playing hide-and-seek until it gets dark, along with many more.

Froggy’s Lemonade Stand

by Jonathan London (PreK–2) Froggy’s latest great idea is a summer staple: a lemonade stand! In classic Froggy fashion, though, there are a few hiccups along the way.

My Awesome Ssummer by P. Mantis

by Paul Meisel (K–3) Kids may spend the summer on the beach, at cookouts, or at camp, but P. Mantis’s diary is more about shedding skin and camouflage. This creative look at the life cycle of a praying mantis gives a different perspective on summer’s passing. weareteachers.com

The Little Red Fort

by Brenda Maier (PreK–2)

JUNE 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 19

SUMMER GUIDE

Theatre & Arts Junie B. Jones Jr: The Musical June 1, 6:30pm and June 2, 2pm The St. Marys Children’s Theatre presents Junie B. Jones Jr: The Musical. The show will be performed at The College of Coastal Georgia - Camden Campus. Tickets are available online.

The College of Coastal Georgia - Camden Campus / 912-510-9700 / 8001 Lakes Blvd., Kingsland, GA 31548 / www.stmaryschildrenstheatre.com Music by the Sea Concert Series Wednesdays, June 5, 12, 19, 26, 7pm Music by the Sea is back with 19 free shows in 2019. The series runs May 15 thru September 11.

This free family-friendly concert series features a different band each week. The series offers a wide variety of music including jazz, blues, classic rock, pop, reggae, disco, and country. In addition to the music each week one of the community’s local eateries serve an optional dinner priced at $10 or less.

Dinner service begins at 6pm with the free concert starting at 7pm.

St Johns County Pier Park / 350 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080 / www.sabca.org Concerts in the Plaza Thursdays, June 6, 13, 20, 27, 7pm Concerts in the Plaza, St. Augustine’s summer-long music series, returns for its 29th season serving up some of the best musical entertainment in Northeast Florida. The series includes 14 weeks of twohour concerts held every Thursday in the Gazebo in the Plaza de la Constitución starting at 7pm. The series continues through August 29. All concerts are free and attendees should bring lounge chairs for seating. Picnic dinners are popular, but alcoholic beverages are prohibited in the Plaza. Plaza de la Constitución / 904-825-1004 / King Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.citystaug.com The Music Man at the Orange Park Community Theatre • Fridays and Saturdays, June 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29, 8pm Sundays, June 9, 16, 23, 30, 3pm Orange Park Community Theatre presents a stage production of The Music Man. Tickets are available online or by phone. The show will run June 7 through June 30, on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Tickets are $25. Student prices are $10 on Saturdays. Orange Park Community Theatre / 904-276-2599 / 2900 Moody Blvd, Orange Park, FL 32073 / www.opct.info Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Auditions June 8, 2pm and June 9, 7pm The Orange Park Community Theatre will be holding auditions for their upcoming production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. Auditions will consist of singing 16 measures of a musical number, dancing, and a cold reading. Be prepared with a British and/ or French accent, in case you are asked to read for any of the castle roles. Orange Park Community Theatre / 904-276-2599 / 2900 Moody Avenue, Orange Park, FL 32073 / www.opct.info City of Jacksonville Beach Summer Jazz Concert Series • June 9, 5pm to 9pm The City of Jacksonville Beach is proud to present the Annual Summer Jazz Series. This two-concert series is scheduled for Sunday evenings from 5pm

to 9pm at the Sea Walk Pavilion. Admission is free and open to the public. Bring your blankets or lawn chairs. Be sure to arrive early for seating.

June 9, 5pm to 9pm - Opening Act: Marcus Click, Middle Act: Jessy J, Headliner: Four 80 East featuring JJ Sansaverino. Sea Walk Pavilion / 904-2476100 / 11 1st Street North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / www.jacksonvillebeach.org Disney’s The Little Mermaid at Alhambra Theatre & Dining • June 12 - July 28 The Alhambra Theatre and Dining presents the musical The Little Mermaid, based on the story

by Hans Christian Andersen and the 1989 Disney movie. Tickets start at $38, and can be purchased online or by calling the box office. There are evening performances, as well as matinees; no shows on Mondays. The show runs June 12 thru July 28, with a special matinee on July 3. Alhambra Theatre & Dining / 904-641-1212 / 12000 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.alhambrajax.com Art Adventures Students, ages 6 through 12, will view the special exhibition French Moderns: Monet to Matisse, and then return to the studio to learn techniques for creating impressionist paintings. Class size is limited. For further information, please email education@cummermuseum.org or call 904.355.0630.

Members $10, Non-Members $15. Registration required. Register online at cummermuseum.org.

Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens / 904-3550630 / 829 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.cummermuseum.org Auditions for Newsies June 22, 12noon to 4pm The St. Marys Children’s Theatre invites all students in middle school through age 18 for auditions. Kids will be auditioning for the Season 6 opener, Disney’s Newsies. Show dates will be October 18th- 27th, 2019. St Marys Children’s Theatre / 912-5109700 / 204 Arnow Drive, St. Marys, GA 31558 / www.stmaryschildrenstheatre.com Art For Tots at the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens • June 22, 10:30am to 12noon The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens hosts Art For Tots. This class is for children 24-36 months and an accompanying adult. The program is designed to help develop a child’s sensory and motor skills through art, movement, music, and storytelling and takes place in the galleries, garden, and studios. Entry is through Art Connections. Class size is limited. For further information, please email education@cummermuseum.org or call 904-3550630. Cost is $10 per pair for members, and $15 per pair for non-members. Registration is required.

June 22, 10:30am to 12noon -- Art For Tots: Play Your Instruments.

Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens / 904-3550630 / 829 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.cummermuseum.org

JUNE 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 20

FREE SUMMER COURSES Student Achievement Course

Tips for a Successful Transition to Middle School Tips for a Successful Transition to Kindergarten FOCUS: The Student Online Grading Portal Preventing the Summer Slide in Elementary Reading

Time/Date

June 10th 5:00 – 6:00 PM June 11th 10:00 - 11:00 AM June 18th 5:30 – 6:30 PM June 20th 8:00 - 9:00 AM

Location

The Carpenter’s Shop (Arlington) 1601 University Blvd. N., 32211 DCPS Main Building (Downtown) 1701 Prudential Dr., 32207 Wells Fargo Building (Northside) 1601 Main Street N., 32206 Normandy Village Elementary (Westside) 270 Connie Jean Rd., 32210

Parenting & Advocacy Course Know the Law Understanding Student Stress: K-12 Mommy, Me & My IEP

Course

Speaking with Confidence & Networking Coding: Python 2 Building & Rebuilding Your Credit

Time/Date

June 17th 6:00 - 7:00 PM June 18th 8:30 - 9:30 AM June 20th 5:30 - 6:30 PM

Location

DCPS Main Building (Downtown) 1701 Prudential Dr., 32207 DCPS Main Building (Downtown) 1701 Prudential Dr., 32207 Southeast Branch Library (Southside) 10599 Deerwood Park Blvd., 32256

Personal & Individual Growth Time/Date June 20th 9:30 –10:30 AM June 14th 4:00 - 5:30 PM

June 17th 5:30 – 6:30 PM

Location

DCPS Main Building (Downtown) 1701 Prudential Dr., 32207 Main Library (Downtown) 303 North Laura St., 32202 One Love Christian Center (Northside) 2960 Edison Ave., 32254

Visit www.duvalschools.org/ParentAcademy for course descriptions and registration. Walk-ins are welcome.

Summer course offerings are limited.

PARENT ACADEMY FALL 2019 COURSES BEGIN IN SEPTEMBER!

EDUCATION

Summertime Reading with Your Kids

S

ummer’s relaxed schedule means more time to read great books. Whether you and your kids take part in your local library’s summer reading program, complete a program through your children’s school, or create your own, reading over the summer is enjoyable and educational.

students have recommended to me. “The War That Saved My Life” by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley is one example of a student-recommended book I plan to read this summer.

Since electronic devices cause distractions from reading for many of us, we established a new policy in our home this summer. Screen Research from Education Week and several time is earned by minutes spent reading. This state departments of education show kids who means our daughter will log the number of continue to read during the summer prevent minutes read during morning and evening the dreaded “summer slide,” which often reading times. If she reads for 30 minutes, for happens when kids are out of school. Some example, she earns 30 minutes of screen time. studies show students lose as much as three months’ worth of learning during the summer. If your kids are very young and not up to 30 minutes of reading yet, you might try reading The private school where I teach partners with to them a few minutes each day. This will the Nassau County Public Library’s sumestablish a habit of reading in your home. Anmer reading program. Our Callahan Branch other option is to check out a few audio books Library has three separate summer reading from your local library. Play the audio books programs: one for kids, one for teens, and one when you’re doing errands around town. You for adults. My daughter is participating in the might be surprised when they tell you they kids’ program while I am taking part in the want to hear more! Audio books are also wonadult program. The programs involve reading derful options for long summer car trips. books of our choice, logging them, and then checking in with library staff on a weekly basis Perhaps you and your kids want to read the for various incentives. same books and discuss them together. This is a fun way to encourage family togetherness If you don’t live near a library, you can check and help your kids build their reading skills. A with your children’s school to find out their few years ago, my daughter and I both read summer reading requirements. Most schools the fourth Harry Potter book at the same time. send summer reading lists home with students We had a blast discussing the chapters as we at the end of the school year. Other schools read. post their summer reading guidelines online.

Please let me know what you and your kids This year, I plan to focus more on reading or are reading this summer. I’d love to know. re-reading classic literature. I recently bought Just send me an e-mail at nancyleebethea@ copies of “Jane Eyre” and “Wuthering Heights” gmail.com. j on a trip to Books-A-Million with my daughter.

I’ve also committed to read several books my Nancy Lee Bethea

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

JUNE 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 21

Darnell-Cookman Students Know Their Dirt Bridge to Success Gets Them Back on Track “You’re dumb. You’ll never amount to nothing. You can’t do nothing.”

These are words Zayla Brown said she has heard all of her life from those around her.

With those words in her head, Brown found herself flailing; always in trouble for fighting, failing her classes, and at 15-yearsold, still struggling to pass the eighth grade.

“It feels good because there were so many people who doubted me, telling me I was not going to be nothing,” Brown said. “It was always in me. I just needed an extra push, and that’s what I got here.”

That’s the goal, said BTS principal Aleya Prier.

The 20-year educator has headed the BTS program for six years and says her mission has been to establish a culture where students believe in themselves and know that they have the ability to win.

It was at this crossroads that Brown Bridge to Success students: from left to right seated: made a Paris Moss, Zayla Brown, and Sage Perry. From left to life-changing right standing: Markayla Bell, Jaquari Mixon, Gerald decision. In- Brown, Dorian Jones, and Randy Randall.

“Our students spired by the are absolutely success of her sister, Brown enrolled in the district’s amazing,” said Prier. “The problem is Bridge to Success Academy – a program that they just don’t know it. They have an issue with belief. They don’t believe they to help students who are two or more academic years behind get back on track have the right to be great. We have to do a lot of building and pouring and uplifting to graduating with their original class. them.”

Initially reluctant to enroll because of the stigma of the school being for “dumb She covers her school with positive affirmations, and preaches the gospel of kids,” Brown said she was amazed at winning each day over the loudspeaker. both the intelligence of her classmates and the support she found from the BTS When students enter the building, they hear the words to the song, “You’re school community.

Worth Fighting For.” Prier’s three messages that she wants students to Messages from her principal and teachinternalize are: ers like “You’re a Winner” and “You’re 1. Today, we win!

Worth Fighting For” soon unseated the 2. You’re worth fighting for! negative messages from her past, and 3. Potential + Persistence = Promise! she began to flourish.

Brown was among 130 BTS students who will participated in the Mid-Year Promotion Ceremony in April, recognizing that regardless of where they started, they are now back on track to graduate with their original class.

“Once children believe in themselves, they perform better and desire more for themselves,” said Prier. “Therefore, it’s our job not just to educate, but to help them see the power and potential they have within them and draw it out.”

JUNE 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 22

For some, it’s just dirt.

But for one group of students at Darnell-Cookman School of the Medical Arts, earth’s soil is not only a harvesting ground for life, it’s also a place of discovery – one where they can learn more about the environment and each other.

These “down to earth” students demonstrated their mastery of the environment at last month’s state-wide Envirothon – an annual competition that tests student’s knowledge of diverse environmental topics such as soil and land use, aquatic ecology, forestry, wildlife, and the role of technology in agriculture.

The students (a.k.a “Team Dasher”) took home a first-place medal in the Current Issue Presentation category. The students spoke for five minutes about how to mitigate nutrient pollution from agricultural runoff into the Suwannee River watershed.

“I was super proud of them!” said Scott Sowell, team coach and science instructor.

Sowell, is well acquainted with this competition. Over the past several years, he has paved the way to numerous team victories at regionals by establishing roots in study materials and hands-on activities.

“We’re the team everyone wants to beat,” said Sowell.

In addition to their first-place medal at state, the team also dominated their regional competition held in April. Why are they so successful? Sowell said he finds that roughly 75 percent of material in the Envirothon competition mirror the work that is done in his AP Environmental Science class.

Students like 11th-grader Rebecca Rivera-Clapp say they were inspired to participate in Envirothon after taking Sowell’s class.

“I participate in Envirothon because what I had learned in AP Environmental Science fascinated me and inspired me to learn more about our environment,” said Rivera-Clapp. “By joining Envirothon, I learn more about the issues caused by invasive species, new technologies and how humans can help to keep the planet clean.”

Her classmate, Stephanie Garcia also said she joined the team after taking Sowell’s course. Both experiences led her to being committed to taking care of the environment.

“It sparked a change in the small things I do that affect the environment and inspired me to share all that I know with others so they too can help in any way they can,” said Garcia.

Darnell-Cookman’s “Team Dasher” students pose with their first-place medals at Envirothon. From left to right: Rebecca Rivera-Clapp; LaMark Dasher; Stephanie Garcia; Taylor Ashburn; and Kelly Dixon

The Silent Warriors of the Students Address Mental Health Issues School System Students at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts and Robert E. Lee High School are taking the lead in addressing mental health and wellness issues.

Douglas Anderson senior Chloe Cuff said she was inspired to start the club “DA for Change” after attending the district’s annual student mental health conference.

student body during “Hello Week” to promote the idea that no student should be lonely, and passing out non-violence pledges among their classmates to sign and commit to a life of nonviolence.

In April, the students created a Stressfree Mindfulness Retreat. The retreat consisted of a week-long series of events to reduce student stress, including meditation in the morning In an essay written about the new club, and yoga at lunch. she describes the need she felt to finally get up and do something about Cuff said she wants to leave a mental health. “I could easily see how legacy that will inspire young people much it was affecting the world around everywhere. me,” said Cuff.

“Most of our members are seniors and we want to see the younger generation carry it on,” she said. “I want to leave behind the drive. I want to see it grow exponentially and to other schools.”

Like Cuff, Lee High School student, Kayla Barnwell, was inspired to create a mental wellness initiative on her campus. Called Project H.E.R.O., it is designed to bring awareness to students and their families about mental health services available throughout the Jacksonville community. Barnwell said she wants to lead in destigmatizing the act of seeking help for mental health.

School social workers are the silent warriors of the school system – they work behind-the-scenes to assist families who need support with adequate housing, clothing, food and other non-academic needs, so students can be academically successful.

school supplies closet. Our social workers tell us they get requests from their schools for new clothing nearly every week.

We recently sat down with several school social workers and the supervisor of School Student Services, Laura Chiarello, to talk about the role they play in the school system.

Q: How many school social workers are available?

A: There are 28 school social workers spread across Duval County Schools.

Each social worker may work at up to six different schools. In addition, we have school social workers in all alternative schools, homeless centers and foster care centers.

Q: What does a school social worker do?

A: Upon referral from a student’s school, school social workers can assist students and families with the following services:

Since starting DA for Change with her guidance counselor, Kathy Anderson, nearly 70 of Cuff’s classmates have rallied around her and the movement toward a more mentally fit campus.

The group’s mission is centered on increasing mental health and literacy among students and helping students become leaders and change agents.

“A lot of people are dealing with mental health issues,” said Barnwell. “This could be them. They need to know that, it’s not just in school, but there’s an entire community.”

She stressed the importance of knowing the resources available within the community to get help.

• Completing a “social history.”

School social workers work with students and families to develop a portrait of the student’s life, family background and upbringing. This portrait is called a “social history.”

Developing a social history is part of the process in getting a student an Individualized Education Plan – a unique academic plan for students who have trouble learning with mainstream tactics.

Throughout the year, students have spearheaded several initiatives. This includes creating a Positivity Wall with a series of hand-written inspirational quotes and messages, creating “Hello, my name is…” stickers for the

“I didn’t know all schools have a fulltime therapist,” said Barnwell. “You need to know stuff like that in case you’re down and needing help.”

• Providing clothing and school supplies. With assistance from community donations, school social workers maintain a clothing and

• Conducting attendance checks.

If a student has five unexcused absences in a calendar month, or 10 in a 90-day period, school social workers conduct an attendance check on that student and provide solutions to get the student back to school.

• Responding to crises. School social workers are part of a special crisistrained team that is dispatched in the event of a traumatic event, such as the passing of a student or staff member.

Q: What is the difference between a school social worker and a school counselor?

A: School counselors are not the same as school social workers, but both provide invaluable support to the student. School counselors provide academic support, while school social workers’ main goal is to help reduce barriers outside the classroom so students can be successful inside the classroom.

Q: How do I contact my school social worker?

A: Talk to your school counselor about meeting your school social worker.

Schools will put in a referral to the school social worker if needed.

School social workers are always in need of donations for their clothing closet. If you are interested in donating clothing, school supplies or personal hygiene products, contact Laura Chiarello at chiarellot@duvalschools.org.

JUNE 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 23

Three Schools Win Diversity Award

Guidance Counselors Are There To Help It was always clear that attending college would be in the future for Robert E. Lee High School seniors Isaiah Shabazz and Keith Price Jr. “In my household, it was put in my head at a young age I was going to college,” said Price Jr. “It doesn’t matter what college or what I do. I was going to college.”

Instilling the belief that students are good enough to go to college, and ensuring they are prepared is one of the school’s top goals, said Principal Scott Schneider.

What wasn’t so clear, say the students, were the steps they needed to take to get to college.

This is where the students’ guidance counselors stepped in.

putting it in front of them: hundreds of acceptance letters adorn the hallways, the names of colleges and universities are painted on the stairwells, and college flags and banners that decorate the ceilings throughout the school.

And students’ successes are wildly celebrated.

At this year’s Academic Signing Day – a nationwide initiative where seniors publicly declare their postsecondary plans – Lee held a grand pep-rally style event to recognize the more than 600 college admissions collected and more than $10 million in scholarships.

“The Students Isaiah Shabazz, Jasmine Waters, Keith Price Jr., Ian Beavers and Jade rice with counselors counselors Khristi Keefe and Michelle Crossley-Taylor. are great,” said Shabazz.

“Aside from the counselors working “Our kids come from all different Shabazz said the Academic Signing with you, they work for you. Everything walks of life,” said Schneider. “Our Day was a turning point and unique you want – whether that’s college or job is to let them know that they are experience for him, as he is the first attending a college class that you want destined for greatness, regardless in his family to be receiving a higher to get credit for – they’re going to help of where they came from or where education. you with that.” they’ve been. Whether their path to greatness involves going to a four-year “Thank you to all of the counselors,” Guidance counselor Dr. Khristi Keefe university, enrolling in the military, or said Shabazz. “Not just my counselor, emphasized the importance of giving going straight into the career field is up but every counselor at Robert E. Lee students resources that will make them to them. They just need to know and High School.” successful. to believe that they are equipped for “For me, it’s more about trying to make success in whatever path they choose Price agreed. sure that they have access to as many is up to them.”

“I’d like to say thank you for motivating opportunities as possible when they us to do better and not giving up on leave Lee,” said Keefe. “To focus on For Schneider, seeing is believing. us,” said Price. “They keep pushing us the idea of ‘everything just takes more One of the ways the school helps to do better.” education,’ we start that on day one.” students see their future is by literally

JUNE 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 24

Congratulations to Raines, Ribault and Ed White High Schools for winning the 2018 College Board’s AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award.

This award is given to schools that show more than 50 percent representation of females in AP Computer Science classes and/or on the AP Computer Science exam day.

In the 2017-2018 school year, most of the AP Computer Science Principles exams taken at Raines and Ribault High Schools were taken by female students – eight out of 11 exams for Raines and 16 out of 19 for Ribault.

At Ed White, 70 young women were enrolled in an AP Computer Science course.

Only 685 schools across the nation received this award, and Duval County hosts three of them.

“I am proud that my female students are courageous enough to take on the task of exploring this male dominated industry,” said Principal Traci Battest of Ed White High. “As the first female Principal of Ed White High School, I take on the responsibility of promoting the academic and career advancement of future women scientists, mathematicians and engineers at all levels by identifying and cultivating my student’s interests in STEM fields.”

Ribault High School principal, Dr. Gregory Bostic, said winning this award was important for helping the next generation of young professionals flourish.

“We are proud of our students for delving into these fields and excelling at this rigorous course work,” said Bostic.

According to research by the UNESCO’s Institute of Statistics data, less than 30 percent of the world’s computer science researchers are women.

Starting Small, Ending On Top It all started with a digital camera and doodles scribbled in the margins of notebooks.

For Douglas Anderson seniors, Alyce Rogers and Joey Leppo, entry into the art world began early and simply.

They are now nationally recognized artists – Rogers having won a national film award and Leppo being among 27 Duval County Public Schools students who won a Scholastic Art and Writing award this year.

Rogers won Best National Film at the 2019 CinéStudent Film Festival for her short film, Adam. The film tells the story of a struggling actor who has trouble finding age-appropriate roles because of his youthful looks.

With the help of an agent, he lands a surprisingly fitting role.

Leppo was one of eight students in the country to be awarded the Scholastic Art and Writing Gold Medal award in the portfolio category. His works focus on different textures in twodimensional art and depict various scenes of soldiers and war.

When asked how it felt to be a nationally recognized artists, Leppo’s cheeks flushed and he gave a wide smile.

started jumping on the bed.”

Congratulations to Rogers, Leppo and all of our nationally recognized artists.

This includes the five Scholastic Art and Writing Gold Medal Award winners will have their work on display at the Pratt Institute and Parsons School of Design in New York during the month of June.

Thinking quick on her feet gave one student and future Jacksonville business leader an incredible opportunity to be the only Duval County Public Schools student to compete at a national competition in San Antonio, Texas, this summer.

conduct their own research – and expanded upon those two ideas for her four minutes.

Wolfson School for Advanced Studies

A full list of the winners:

Gold Medal Winners Lauren Caudle Indie DiMartino Joseph Leppo

Conor Naccarato Asia Walker

Cielo Bessa Naomi Bierowski Alexander Blaudow Winnie Blay Matthew Borz Lauren Caudle Ashley Chatmon Kenneth Chism Emory Cook Maria Cortina Sainz Za’Nya Davis Isaac Dunavant Charlene Elvir Camille Faustino

Sheenay Gay Ava Goode Erica Lehosky Jersey Long Flavia Murillo Jazmyn Nidiffer John Owen Samuel Pabon Sadie Ponicall Hugo Rodriguez Isabelle Safine Emily Stiles Sena Suganuma

Trinity King

senior Trinity King, placed fourth in state for Impromptu Speaking at a Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) competition. She only had 10 minutes to prepare a four-minute long speech about being aware of “Fake News” and deliver it to a panel of judges.

King stuck to two main points throughout her speech – individuals should check their sources and

Artwork by Joey Leppo

She said she only considered FBLA when her mom urged her to join a club at high school orientation. The table for the club was the first one she and her best friend saw, so they decided to join.

“It makes me realize I can be a businesswoman now,” said King. “It teaches me all the steps and shows me all the things I need to go through and do to become the woman that I want to be.”

“It’s kind of intense!” said King. “It’s nerve-wracking.”

Rogers was also modest when talking about her latest honor, but expressed excitement as she reminisced about the first national award she ever won.

King’s journey with FBLA started her freshman year of Wolfson. She said at that time she wanted to grow up to be a professional choreographer.

Since then, King said it has exposed her to the real business world and helped her see all of her potential.

Silver Medal Winners

“I haven’t really thought about it, but I’m proud of it,” said Leppo. “I’m happy.

It’s a big thing!”

“I know exactly where I was,” said Rogers. “It was the summer before my junior year. I was in Orlando. We were in a hotel room, and I got an email saying that I won an award at a teen film festival, a small one, in Rochester, New York. I like screamed and just

“I Can Be a Businesswoman Now”

King hopes to take these opportunities and become a business leader herself. She plans to study business administration at one of three universities in the Florida/Georgia area and go on to open her own financial firm.

“I did the Vystar internship program, and was given the responsibility of handling pretty much an entire bank,” said King. “I took on all the roles, and I kind of fell in love with the world of money and the connections you gain with people because they trust you with their money.”

Visit dcps.duvalschools.org for more information.

JUNE 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 25

Clay County School News Clay High’s Academy Gets Top Honors

New Safety and Security Head

The Academy of Criminal Justice at Clay High School has earned national distinction as a Model Career Academy. This is the highest designation awarded by the National Career Academy Coalition (NCAC).

John Ward is the school districts new director of Operations, Safety, and Security. Ward previously served as the director of the Clay County Division of Emergency Management.

The achievement of model status is a prestigious honor that certifies a career academy as being implemented with excellence based on The National Standards of Practice for Career Academies. The NCAC Career Academy review process is based on the National Standards of Practice, introduced in 2004 by multiple career academy organizations and endorsed by the U.S. Departments of Education and Labor. In order for an academy to reach NCAC’s highest level of recognition, model status, an academy must meet or exceed proficiency in all areas of the standards.

“I am extremely proud of this accomplishment and what it means for Clay County District Schools, said Superintendent Addison Davis. “One of my strategic goals is to bring national attention and recognition to our career and technical academies.

Clay High School’s Criminal Justice Academy has demonstrated the NCAC’s highest level of acknowledgement by offering a high quality educational pathway that prepares students for the workforce. I am excited for our Career and Technical Education Department, Clay High School, teachers, staff members, and the organization for their continued efforts to improve the experiences for our learners.”

“It is evident that the passion of the academy teams, coupled with the support of the school administration, and the intense focus of your

business community, has created a stellar program for students, parents, and the community,” said Jay Steele, President of NCAC. “The rigor of the curriculum and the depth of your industry partnerships are to be commended.”

Career academies are designed to prepare students for both college and careers.

They are schools within schools that link students with peers, teachers, and community partners in a structured environment that fosters academic success.

The career academy concept has three key elements:

• A small learning community.

• A college-prep sequential curriculum with a career theme.

• An advisory board that forges partnerships with employers, higher education institutions, and the community.

Academies that adhere to all the major components defining academies are far more likely to show positive results for student success. National research has shown that Career Academy students have better attendance, better scores on standardized tests, higher college attendance rates, and often earn higher salaries than the average non-Career Academy student.

The Academy of Criminal Justice at Clay High will be honored at the 2019 NCAC National Conference in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in November.

For Mommy and Me The spread and the turnout were both awesome at Doctors Inlet Elementary’s annual Mommy & Me Tea last month. www.oneclay.net OP/Middleburg (904) 272-8100 Green Cove Springs (904) 284-6500 Keystone Heights (888) 663-2529 TDD (904) 284-6584

JUNE 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 26

Ward joined Clay County Emergency Management in 2008. Prior to that, he worked over 20 years in the fire rescue services in Clay County. He graduated from American Military University where he received a bachelor in Emergency and Disaster Management.

Ward replaces Bruce Harvin, who retired in April.

The Operations Division is responsible for matters dealing with safety & security and this division, among other things, assists all schools with training, helps formulate plans for handling critical incidents and provides training in crisis management.

John Ward

Florida’s Principal of the Year Discovery Oaks Elementary Principal Tracy McLaughlin has been named Florida’s Principal of the Year by the Florida Association of Elementary School Principals.

A passionate principal known as an inspiring leader with a clear, comprehensive plan for improving student achievement, McLaughlin was selected to help open and lead the Clay County School District’s first and only STEAM school, Discovery Oaks Elementary in 2018. Before that she was at Ridgeway Elementary. Under her leadership, Ridgeview moved from a “C’ to “A” school. It had the highest learning gains in Clay County, moving from 406 points to 540 points. Both ELA and Math lower quartile gains increased by more than 20 percent. All of these achievements were accomplished with 70 percent of the children living at or below the poverty level, without Title One funding or support.

McLaughlin was named Clay’s Principal of the Year for 2017. She holds a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from University of Maine.

She and her husband have lived in the county since 2006, and their two children attended district schools.

Addison Davis, Clay County superintendent, said Tracy worked diligently to enhance the educational experiences for all by focusing on the intellectual, social, and emotional aspects of

learning.

“As an educational leader, Tracy has consistently proven the ability and skillset to improve teaching and learning,” he continued. “Understanding the complexities linked to increasing student performance, Tracy doubled down on bridging equity gaps, exposing students to a rich and rigorous curriculum, and empowering teachers to deliver quality lessons that meet the spirit of content-based and grade level standards.”

Through its state affiliates, the National Elementary School Principals Association National Distinguished Principal program honors elementary and middle-level principals who set high standards for instruction, student achievement, character, and climate for the students, families, and staffs in their learning communities.

“Mrs. McLaughlin’s embodies the qualities of a true servant leader,” said state president Seth Daub. “Her focus is always based on the needs of individual students.”

McLaughlin will compete for the national title in Washington, D.C., in October.

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St. Johns County

School District News

County Schools Rank High St. Johns County has four of the 100 best public high schools in Florida, according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2019 Best High School rankings.

Ponte Vedra High earned the highest spot on the list, ranking 29th in Florida and 364th in the nation. Creekside High School ranked 34th, Bartram Trail High was 44th, Nease High came in at 55th, while St. Augustine High was ranked 276 and Pedro Menendez 284 out of 1,081 high schools in Florida.

“I think it makes everyone proud to see St. Johns County schools on that list,” said St. Johns Superintendent Tim Forson. “It reaffirms what we are doing. Those rankings are about accelerated academic performance so it reaffirms that we have the right programs in place and the right opportunities in place for children to be successful.”

“The highest ranked U.S. public schools in U.S. News & World Report’s 2019 Best High Schools rankings are those whose attendees demonstrated outstanding outcomes above expectations in math and reading state

assessments, passed a diverse array of college-level exams and graduated in high proportions,” the magazine reported. U.S. News used weighted scores across six indicators of school quality, then computed for each school a single zero to 100 overall score reflective of performance across these metrics.

The St. Johns County School District has ranked first in the state out of 67 districts in total school accountability points for the past nine years and is one of only two districts in Florida with a grade of “A” for eight years in a row.

State Champs Creekside senior Imani Graham is the 3A Girls Tennis Overall Singles State Champion.

Competing in the Florida High School Athletic Association tennis championships at Sanlando Park in Altamonte Springs, Graham defeated Ellie Schoppe of Jensen Beach.

Meanwhile, Creekside sophomore Mikhaila Mills won the state track class 3A championship held at the University of North Florida in the 100 meter dash with a time of

Duval County has five schools ranked in the top 100 in Florida: Stanton College Prep at 5th (47th nationally), Paxon High School 23rd, Darnell Cookman Middle/High School 24th, Douglas Anderson School of the Arts 25th and River City Science Academy 91st. Clay County had one school in the top 100 in the state – Fleming Island High at 72.

11.66. She placed second in the 200.

Also in class 3A, Clay County’s Alex Collier of Orange Park High won the 400 meter dash with a time of 46.33. Collier also took a third in the 100. In Class 4A, Clay’s Glenn Rodgers of Fleming Island High won the 110 hurdles in 14.20 and Oakleaf’s Jalen Rivers won the 4A shot put with a throw of 54 feet, 4 inches.

Imani Graham

Mikhaila Mills

Florida ranked sixth in the nation with nearly 37 percent of its high schools finishing in the top 25 percent.

Students of the Year Ponte Vedra seniors Anna Auchter and Matthew Quintal have been named Students of the Year by the Exchange Club of the Jacksonville Beaches.

Follow us on Twitter @StJohnsCountySD

Teaching Healthy Lifestyles Pedro Menendez High students in the Flagler Hospital Academy of Medical & Health Careers spent a day last month at Hartley Elementary teaching 4th graders healthy lifestyle habits.

Members of the academy and HOSA club researched healthy lifestyles and created visual and interactive displays for the elementary students. HOSA is an international student organization that promotes career opportunities in the health care industry.

The program was set up in a health fair format where the younger students visited each booth. Both high school students and

elementary children had a wonderful time exploring what it takes to be healthy.

Earlier this year, students from the Flagler Hospital Academy of Medical & Health Careers participated in a semester of rotations at Flagler Hospital. Students shadowed over 40 different departments in the hospital to get hands on experience in various medical careers.

Connect on Facebook @St Johns County School District

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

JUNE 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 27

Things to Do

TEENS

Punishment Varies for Illegal Sexting T exting sexual images, called “sexting,” is increasingly common among teenagers, and in 23 states, authorities can prosecute sexting between teenagers as child pornography, potentially resulting in a 20-year prison term and sex-offender registry, according to the article, “Teenagers, Sexting & the Law,” in the May 2019 Pediatrics magazine.

The article comments on 39 previously published studies with 110,380 subjects that found over a quarter of teens (27.4 percent) have received a sext and 14.8 percent report having sent a sext.

states, teen sexting is a felony where a teen sexter can be both an offender and a victim.

Teen behavior and digital invention have outpaced the development of new laws, and this has the potential to have dire legal ramifications for teens, according to the authors. Separating consensual sexting from nonconsensual sexting and actual child pornography is a critical next step for law enforcement agencies and policy makers to catch up to technology.

The authors argue that consensual teen-toteen sexting does not warrant law enforcement involvement but rather is a health and education issue that is better addressed at home, in schools, and by health care professionals.

The prevalence of sexting has grown commensurate with teen cell phone use and did not vary by gender but did vary by age, with an increase in sexting as teens progressed through adolescence. Studies have shown that sexting is associated with incidences of In Florida, sexting by minors is illegal and increased sexual behavior. could result in a fine, community service, court-ordered participation in a cyber safety Some experts have concluded that teen program and/or other age-appropriate sexting is a modern form of flirting. penalties, such as loss of driver’s license. j Currently, 27 states have passed laws that essentially decriminalize sexting. In other

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Win one of three (3) Family 4-packs to see an advance screening of MEN IN BLACK: INTERNATIONAL, opening in Theatres nationwide on June 14th. Prize package includes reserved seating for four (must be seated by 7:15) and 4 pairs of MIB sunglasses.

To enter, email your name, address, and phone number to contests@jax4kids.com. Put the words “MEN IN BLACK” in the subject line.

Three winners will be selected at random from all entries received by 3pm on June 7th.

Winners will be notified by email on Friday, June 7th by 4pm. Screeening will be held on Tuesday, June 11th at 7:30 p.m. at the The Regal Avenues Theatre.

Good luck from your friends at Jax4Kids!

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Teens Events

Teen Summer Challenge at Planet Fitness Thru September 1 Planet Fitness is encouraging teens to get off the couch and into the gym this summer by offering free gym access and classes specifically geared towards teens. The “Teen Summer Challenge” allows teens 15-18 to work out for free through September 1. During the teen’s first visit, they must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to sign a Planet Fitness Gym Waiver. Once they have signed up, they will just have to check in at the front desk every time they arrive. Planet Fitness is also giving away scholarship money this summer. A total of $30,500 is available.

Area Planet Fitness Locations / www.planetfitness.com June 2019 Teen Girls Bible Study + Bible Journaling • June 6, June 13, June 20, June 27 from 1pm to 3pm Bible study and Bible Journaling for Teen Girls (age 13-18). Participants will meet for four Thursdays in June with a different topic each week. Come for one or come for them all. Teens will study the Bible together while journaling in their Bible. They will have a Bible study book and all the supplies, plus popcorn, desserts, lemonade & tea. Cost is $15 per class or $40 for all four ($20 savings for all).

Register online in advance.

Be the Light Studio / 4274 Herschel Street, Jacksonville, FL 32210 / www.butgodministry.com Anastasia Island Teen Book Club June 6, 13, 20, 27, 3pm Join library staff for teen book club at the Anastasia Island Library to read the book Two Dark Reigns by Kendra Blake. Make new friends, have good discussions and more. Books are provided by the Friends of the Anastasia Island Library to the first 10 students who sign up. Sign up online or email njebbia@sjcfl.us. Free.

St. Johns County Public Library, Anastasia Island Branch / 904-209-3730 / 124 Seagrove Main Street, St. Augustine, FL 32080 / www.sjcpls.org Star Wars Bloxels June 11, 3pm to 4pm Teens, do you ever play video games and wish you could design your own? This summer enter the world of Star Wars and create your own adventure. Using Bloxels technology, you can create a game and share it with

others. This program is perfect for fans of Roblox or Minecraft. This program is for teens ages 12-17. Free.

Jacksonville Public Library, West Branch / 904-693-1448 / 1425 Chaffee Road South, Jacksonville, FL 32221 / www.jaxpubliclibrary.org Learn To Sew June 14, 10am; June 26, 6pm Learn basic sewing skills, sewing machine & tool basics, sew seams & construct a simple pillow. Intended for adults & teens 15 & older.

This class includes free sewing supplies (while they last). Supplies are required for this class; view supply list online. Class cost is $35.

Joann, St. Johns Town Center / 904-6422557 / 10261 River Marsh Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.joann.com Saturday at the Nest June 22, 9am to 1pm Come to UNF for a Saturday at the Nest to complete your admissions and FAFSA applications, take a campus tour, attend informational sessions and talk with admissions, financial aid and transfer experts. They will answer your questions and assist you with finalizing all the paperwork necessary to submit your application and finish your documentation. Free to attend, but registration is required.

University of North Florida, Hicks Hall Bldg 53 / 904-620-5555 / 1 UNF Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / www.unf.edu Safe Sitter Class June 28, 9:30am to 4:30pm Safe Sitter prepares students in grades 6-8 to be safe when they’re home alone, watching younger siblings, or babysitting. Students learn life-saving skills such as how to rescue someone who’s choking, and helpful information like what to do if there’s severe weather.

The lessons are filled with fun activities and role-playing exercises. Students even get to use CPR manikins to practice CPR or choking rescue. Upon completion of the course, each student will receive a certificate indicating they completed all course requirements as a Safe Sitter. Cost is $50/teen.

Y Healthy Living Center Riverside / 904-2022229 / 221 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.baptistjax.com

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

Things to Do

PETS

Playtime Benefits Master as Well E veryone knows that playing games with your dog is fun, but what we don’t often consider is that the benefits of play go well beyond just having fun. Adding in a little more playtime to your dog’s routine is one of the easiest ways to enrich your dog’s life. Here are some of the benefits of playing with your dog.

You’re Training Your Dog, Even If You Don’t Realize It One of the benefits to playing with your dog is that it’s a fun way to get in some daily training.

Now I’m not talking about traditional “teach your dog a trick” training, but I am talking about reinforcing desirable behaviors. And in the case of play that revolves around teaching your dog to follow some basic rules.

Does your dog get too mouthy while playing tug? When that happens simply stop playing the game. If you stop the game because your dog gets too mouthy you’re teaching them biting your hand is not acceptable. Does that feel like traditional training? Not exactly, and that’s why it’s so easy to forget that we’re training when we’re engaged in play.

Play Provides Mental Stimulation We all know that physical exercise is important for our dogs, but we often overlook the importance of mental exercise. Interactive games like tug or fetch might seem like a simple way to keep your dog busy, but they also provide a lot of mental stimulation for your dog.

Since games rely on some basic rules such as “you need to bring the Frisbee back if you want to keep playing” they give your dog a chance to make their own decisions and help them build focus.

It’s Good Physical Exercise for You & Your Dog Dogs require regular exercise, and using play is one of the most fun ways to make sure your

dog has a chance to release all that pent up energy. And since playing with your dog requires you to get involved it means both of you will be getting in more physical activity.

And when it comes to playing with your dog for physical exercise don’t worry; just a couple of extra 5 to 10 minute sessions of play can make a huge difference.

Play is a Fun Way to Relieve Stress Playing with your dog is fun, and as far as stress reliever’s go it’s a really simple way to improve both you and your dog’s overall mood.

Spending time with your dog can have a calming effect, and some studies have found that it can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Adding in a couple of quick 5 minute play sessions with your dog each day can have a big effect on both you and your dog’s overall mood.

Playing With Your Dog Strengthens Your Bond One of the greatest things about playing with your dog is how much it strengthens your bond. You’re not just providing them with fun when you engage them in play; you’re giving them a routine and reinforcing the idea that you are the bringer of all things fun — and that goes a long way when it comes to speeding up the bonding process.

Play Can Decrease Problem Behaviors in Dogs Dogs who engage in regular play are less likely to develop problem behaviors such as excessive barking and chewing. The reason being is that dogs get bored, and when your dog gets bored chances are they’ll find their own ways to entertain themselves — and that boredom is what leads to things like chewed up shoes. j

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“My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person: He believed in me.”

– Jim Valvano

Pet Events

Salty Paws Animal Hospital Open House June 1, 3pm to 6pm Salty Paws Animal Hospital will be holding an Open House. Pet families are invited to stop by, meet the doctors and staff, have a tour of the hospital, and enjoy a raffle. Free.

Salty Paws Animal Hospital / 386-439-2200 / 208 N 2nd Street, Flagler Beach, FL 32136 / www.palmcoastgov.com Havana Nights to Benefit Flagler Humane Society June 1, 6pm to 9pm Flagler Humane Society hosts Havana Nights at the Hilton Garden Inn. Enjoy salsa dancing and Live Latin Jazz Performance by Luis Mario & The Rumba Kings. There will also be authentic Latin cuisine, a cigar bar, silent auction, live vacation package auction, cash bar, and more. Tickets are $60 for one or $100 for two.

Hilton Garden Inn / 386-445-1814 / 55 Town Center Boulevard, Palm Coast, FL 32164 / flaglerhumanesociety.salsalabs.org Barks, Brunch & Brews June 2, 30, 11am to 2pm Pet families are invited for a Sunday Funday food truck brunch with your dog at Florida’s only indoor/outdoor dog park. If it is your first visit to Kanine Social, please create an account in advance. All dogs must have proof of up to date rabies, bordetella and distemper. All dogs over 6 months of age must be spayed/neutered.

June 2 - A Flying Sausage June 30 - Waffle Stop Express Kanine Social / 904-712-6363 / 580 College Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.kaninesocial.com

Keeping Pets SAFE When it's Hot.

Kitten Foster Training June 8, 10am to 11:30am It’s “Kitten Season” and your help is needed.

Learn how to become a foster parent and care for orphaned kittens in the Kitten Care Boot camp. Receive hands-on training from the experts. They will cover everything from day one with the kitten to adoption. No cost and no obligation.

Animal Care & Protective Services / 904-8021025 / 2020 Forest Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / jaxkittenarmy.weebly.com BYOB Dachshund at Kanine Social June 20, 6:30pm Bring your Dachshund out to Kanine Social for a romp around with fellow wiener dogs from Jacksonville. Enjoy Florida’s only indoor dog park & bar, while your dog plays. If this is your first visit to Kanine Social, please create an account on the website using the ticket link.

Upload proof of up to date rabies, distemper and bi-annual bordetella. Dogs over 6 months of age must be spayed/neutered.

Kanine Social / 904-712-6363 / 580 College Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / kaninesocial.gingrapp.com Canines and Crustaceans: Dog Day at the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp June 24, 7:05pm The Jumbo Shrimp and Standard Feed & Seed welcome you and your canine companion to the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville. Canines get in free as long as their human companion buys a ticket. Dog Free seating is located in sections 110 and 111, the Wheel House Lounge and the BDO Suite Level. Single game tickets at $5.

Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville / 904-3582846 / 301 A Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxshrimp.com Like Jax4Pets.com’s Facebook page at facebook.com/jax4pets to find out about other events for pets.

Make frozen treats for pets to cool them down and prevent dehydration Limit exercise during warmer temperatures Go for walks early in the morning or during the evening

Leave pets in cars Leave pets outdoors Leave pets in garages Leave pets without plenty of water Leave pets without a cool place to rest

Protect paw pads with traction socks or shoes for dogs. Hot pavements can cause burns to paw pads.

Use a pet-safe sunscreen. Apply to ears, nose, tail and belly.

If you see a pet in a car, try to locate the owner or call 911 and stay by the car until assistance arrives.

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THINGS TO DO spot in advance.

Joann / 904-642-2557 / 10261 River Marsh Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.joann.com Sisters & Survivors Day June 8, 9:30am to 12noon Sisters Of The Sea and Saltwater Cowgirls Surf Camp host the 7th Annual “Sisters & Survivors Day”. The day will include free surf lessons for cancer survivors. (Guys are welcome to cheer from the beach). They will provide 2 volunteers per participant, a family style beach brunch and more. This is a special event for those sisters ready to celebrate life by learning how to surf in a safe, sister friendly, environment.

Jacksonville Beach / 904-233-6119 / 8th Ave North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / saltwatercowgirlssurf.com Nurses Night Out with Baptist Jacksonville • June 13, 6:30pm to 9pm Meet Baptist Jacksonville’s nursing leadership and team members. Enjoy cocktails, conversations, and a night out with Baptist Health. Take advantage of the opportunity to

learn about the services Baptist Jacksonville offers to the Northeast Florida community.

Specialty spotlights include Neurosciences, Surgical Services, Cardiovascular, General, and Flex Team. Free, but please register, so they know how many to plan for.

Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center / 844632-2278 / 1301 Palm Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www.baptistjax.com Learn To Use Your Cricut & Design Space June 21, 11am Participants are invited for a class on the Cricut machine. Learn how to set and connect the Cricut machine, learn how to use the Design Space software, and learn how to use the Cricut machine to make a multi-layered card and a vinyl decal. This class is available only to students who have the Cricut Explore, Explore Air, Explore Air 2 or Maker Machines.

Older machines are not compatible with this class. Cost is $40. Be sure to reserve your

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Sisterhood Workshops June 24, 6:30pm Sisterhood workshops are designed to resource you with biblical understanding, give you practical tips and an opportunity to ask questions with a panel of women who are from all stages and ages of life. This month’s workshop is entitled Healthy Relationships Start With a Healthy Dose of Self-Awareness.

The best way to look at relationships is through the lens of self-reflection. How are we contributing to the relationships in our lives- are we aware of how we are either helping or harming those that God has asked us to steward, and are we willing to humble ourselves to love and forgive even when it is hard? Having a strong self-awareness can help us cultivate and maintain thriving relationships in all aspects of our livesfriendships, work place, school, marriage and motherhood.

Celebration Church OP / 904-737-1121 / 512 Kingsley Avenue, Orange Park, FL 32073 / www.celebration.org Little Black Dress June 25, 26, 27, 7:30pm FSCJ Artist Series presents Little Black Dress, a ladies’ night out musical. Tickets are $55 each and are available online. Due to the adult themes, strong language, and suggestive content, the show is tot recommended for children. This would be a perfect mom’s night out event.

Times Union Center, Terry Theater / 904632-5000 / 300 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.fscjartistseries.org Make Homemade Macarons at Jax Cooking Studio • June 30, 2pm to 4:30pm Learn to make some beautiful macarons from Chef Verousce of Koek Cakes. Learn to make macarons with an assortment of different fillings. Cost is $60/person.

Jax Cooking Studio / 904-742-5906 / 14035 Beach Blvd #6, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / jaxcookingstudio.com

THINGS TO DO Expedition Dinosaur at MOSH Thru September 2 Jax4Kids.com proudly sponsors Expedition Dinosaur at MOSH. Expedition Dinosaur is a traveling exhibition that celebrates and explores the fascinating world of dinosaurs and the hunt for their fossils in the early 20th Century. Expedition Dinosaur will feature large scale Animatronic Dinosaurs as well as many special exhibits. The exhibit runs through September 2. MOSH / 904-396-6674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org Jacksonville Symphony: The Wizard of Oz June 2, 3pm The MGM classic film returns to the big screen at Jacoby Symphony Hall with its Oscar-winning score played live by the Jacksonville Symphony. Tickets range from $19 to $84 and are available online.

Times Union Center, Jacoby Hall / 904-354-5547 / 300 Water St., Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxsymphony.org Tag Children’s Museum: Creeping, Crawling Crabs • June 5, 9am to 11am Tag! You’re a Marine Biologist! Join Storyteller Debra Weller and the tag! Team for a sea faring morning of storytelling, singing, crab walking, and exploring the watery worlds of crabs. Children will create their very own creeping, crawling crab puppets to take home.

Tickets are $15 each, and are available online.

Tag Children’s Museum of St. Augustine / 904-6471757 / 76 Dockside Drive Suite 105, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.tagmuseum.org

Town of Orange Park Kids Fest June 7-8, 10am to 4pm The Town of Orange Park hosts their annual Kids Fest. Activities include games and activities, displays, interactive shows, live music, food and shopping.

This event is designed with children 12 and younger in mind. Admission and parking are free; there will be a mixture of free and low cost activities available at the event. There will be free parking and shuttle at Moosehaven, as there is limited parking on-site.

Activities include train rides, mini golf, touch-a-truck zone, tumbling, finger painting, sensory zone, obstacle course, and more.

Town Hall Park / 904-278-3043 / 2042 Park Ave, Orange Park , FL 32073 / opkidsfest.com Tangible Taste at the Market June 8, 10am to 12:30pm The St. Augustine Amphitheatre Farmers Market hosts a monthly cooking demonstration called Tangible Taste at The Market. This educational series is hosted by Amy Rupert Secol, Holistic Nutrition Educator, Health Supportive Natural Chef and Real Food Advocate. All ages can come by on the 2nd Saturday of each month and watch a live cooking demonstration, enjoy samples and get the recipe to make your dish at home. St. Augustine Amphitheatre Farmers Market / 1340C A1A South, St. Augustine, FL 32080 / www.tangibletaste.com Penguins & Pals at Jacksonville Ice June 15, 12noon to 4pm Meet Jax Cool and Salsa, the Jacksonville Zoo’s mascot. For $15 you get to ice skate, meet the mas-

cots, receive a penguin rubber ducky to use during the games and Lotsa Give-A-Ways. Some of the prizes include a penguin feeding at the Jacksonville Zoo, general admission tickets the the Jacksonville Zoo, Night at the Zoo tickets and Family Fun Packs to Jacksonville Ice. A portion of the proceeds benefit the Jacksonville Penguin Project. Jacksonville Ice and Sportsplex / 904-399-3223 / 3605 Philips Hwy, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www.jacksonvilleice.com 3rd Annual Watermelon Fest June 22-23, 10am to 5pm The 3rd Annual Watermelon Fest features ice cold watermelon, free water slide, art & crafts, vendors, grilled watermelon, free bounce houses, live entertainment, wacky watermelon games, delicious food, watermelon eating contest, pony rides, free watermelon samples, treats, free corn hole, cutest baby contest, free petting farm, watermelon seed spitting contest, face painting, free rock painting, watermelon fudge, karaoke, train rides, free coloring contest, free inside toddler play area, watermelon bingo, watermelon smoothies, free sack races, photo op, whole watermelons & more. Admission is $6; Kids 2 & under are free. Visit website for $1 off coupon or bring a canned good for discount. Benefits the Green Cove Springs Food Pantry.

Clay County Fairgrounds / 386-860-0092 / 2497 State Road 16 West, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 / www.claycountyfest.com 2019 Annual H.E.R.I. Bookbuster June 22, 8:30am to 12noon Local homeschool group, H.E.R.I., hosts their 2019

Bookbuster event. There will be tables with preowned homeschool books, curriculum for pre-school through 12th grade, fiction/non-fiction books, games, puzzles, computer games, cds, dvds, audiobooks, workbooks, themed unit studies, adult books, manipulatives, and more for sale. Non-H.E.R.I. members can enter at 9:15am; members enter at 8:30am.

Entry fee is $2/adult for H.E.R.I. members and $3 for non-members. Cash only will be accepted at the door for the entry fee. Due to the number of people that attend this event, for safety reasons, wheeled carts and/or strollers WILL NOT BE PERMITTED on the sales floor. Open to the public. Cash, debit and credit are acceptable forms of payment for items purchased.

Hillcrest Baptist Church / 7673 Collins Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32244 / www.homeschool-life.com Freedom Festival 2019 • June 29, 5pm to 9pm The annual Freedom Festival returns to the Orange Park Mall to honor our military and first responders.

This year’s event will feature musical headliner: Wynonna and the Big Noise. There will also be food trucks, bounce houses, rock wall, games, fireworks, and more. Kids Zone will be pay to play. The event will be held in the JCPenney Parking Lot. Orange Park Mall / 904-269-2422 / 1910 Wells Rd, Orange Park, FL 32073 / orangeparkmall.com EDITOR’S NOTE: Dates, times and locations are accurate at time of publication; events and activities listed in this guide are subject to change without notice. Visit Jax4Kids.com for updated information and more events!

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