Jax4Kids March 2021 by Jax4Kids

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March 2021

Look inside for Spring and Summer Camps and visit us online at Jax4Kids.com for our online Spring and Summer Camps Guide

Contents • March 2021

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Dear Readers, e are happy to be talking about W Spring and Summer Break Camps! It’s a welcome sign of life returning to

LIVING WELL

a more pre-COVID normal for children, parents and camp providers. On pages 10 through 14, you’ll find Spring and Summer Break Camp information.

Community Profile: Fostering Connections St. Johns ��4

EATING WELL

March is National Nutrition Month®! ��5 Things to Do: Eating Well Events ��5

March is National Reading Month and that is something worth celebrating! On pages 15 and 16 you’ll find a Read Across America booklist for kids and a booklist for infants and toddlers on page 8 that will help instill a love of reading in your child early in life. The Florida State Assessments, required by the state of Florida, are coming up. Perhaps this year more than any year in the past, these will be important for teachers and students. These assessments show how students are progressing along Florida’s standards. Standards are expectations for student learning, and the assessments enable teachers to adapt their instruction to fill any gaps the tests reveal. For middle school students, performance on the FSA will determine scheduling options, including preliminary acceleration courses during their eighth and ninth grade year — such as Algebra 1 and honors courses — which impact high school grade point averages. To help you get ready, read State Assessments 2021 — What You Need to Know on page 17. Also, the Duval Parent Academy is offering courses that will provide valuable information. See page 16 for course descriptions, dates and times. It’s important to note

HEALTH & SAFETY

Preventing Virus Particles from Accumulating in Your Home ��6 Things to Do: Health & Safety Events ��6

that these courses are open to everyone in the community, not just to families whose children are enrolled in a Duval County Public School. Some of my favorite quotes are from Henry Ford: “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t - you’re right.” and “Failure is only the opportunity more intelligently to begin again”. Failure is a teacher, and on page 21, you can learn How to Help Kids Learn to Fail. It’s worthwhile reading for parents. The Clay County Fair opens April 1st! You can save money by buying your tickets in advance now through March 31st online at ClayCountyFair.org.

SPECIAL NEEDS

Benefits of Music for ADHD Brains ��7 Things to Do: Special Needs Events ��7

INFANT & TODDLER

Tips for Reading to Infants and Toddlers ��8 Books that Foster a Love of Reading ��8 Things to Do: Infant & Toddler Events ��8 How to Make Sure Your Baby Gets the Nap Time They Need ��9 Kids Say The Funniest Things ��9

SPRING BREAK CAMPS ��10

Until next month,

SUMMER CAMPS �� 11-14

Alison Peters-Carlson Editor

EDUCATION

Follow us... Alison Peters-Carlson Editor....................... editor@jax4kids.com Linda Bigbee Graphic Designer...................... linda@jax4kids.com Tim Chavez Graphic Designer........................... tim@jax4kids.com Judi Fields Circulation Manager........................judi@jax4kids.com Beth Canonica Advertising Sales.................... beth@jax4kids.com Mary Gustafson Business Manager............... mary@jax4kids.com Published by Child Enrichment, LLC, 12620-3 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246. Copyright 2021. 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.

Read Across America Booklist ��15-16 Things to Do: Educations Events �� 16 Duval County School News ��17-18 Clay County School News �� 19 St. Johns County School District News �� 20

TEENS

How to Help Kids Learn to Fail �� 21 Things to Do: Teen Events �� 21

PETS

Fascinating Facts About Cats �� 22

THINGS TO DO

Things to Do: March Events �� 23

MARCH 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 3

EATING WELL

LIVING WELL

Community Profile: Fostering Connections St. Johns uring her years teaching at Title 1 schools, entering foster care, including essentials they for business sponsors, corporate sponsors, through digital and print media. D Flagler College alumni Aubrie Simpson-Go- need to help settle into a new family environvolunteer job coaches, soft skills teachers, and 3. Programming: Assisting with tham saw a wide gap in services for local ment. Often, children come into foster care mentors for its Career Readiness Academy. children in foster care and foster families. It was readily apparent that St. Johns County foster children needed mentorship, career coaching, and access to resources. Simpson-Gotham founded FCSJ to help all foster youth reach their full potential and connect volunteers and community leaders to opportunities to assist foster families in providing stable, loving homes for children in transition. The organization is supported by an all-volunteer Board of Directors and Advisory Council. “St. Johns County is the only county in Florida that doesn’t have a nonprofit arm running its foster programs,” Simpson-Gotham explained. “There are more than 170 kids currently in foster care in St. Johns County’s Family Integrity Program. It’s a unique system and one that needs the help of the community to make sure that these kids have all of the support they need.” They give comfort to children in foster care by providing care packages to children who are

with only the clothes or their back or a few items in trash bags. Experiencing the emotional trauma of a home change can leave a child feeling unloved and uncertain about their future. Receiving a care package or a gift card for back to school shopping gives these children the message that they are loved and supported by their community, and helps the transition to a new foster family feel more secure. Last Summer, Fostering Connections St. Johns started Career Readiness Academy, a three-class job training program held twice a year for teens in foster care, in partnership with The Kookaburra, a local coffee shop and roastery. It’s a program where students learn foundational skills they need to secure a job, including writing a resume, interview skills, and working as a team. At the end of the program, students apply for paid internships with business partners to receive job coaching and develop a professional plan. Currently, Fostering Connections St. Johns is looking

Through outreach events, Backpack Brigade Closet, and additional support services, they help foster parents access the resources they need to care for our foster youth. Foster parents give their time and love to the children in their care, providing day to day care and attending all meetings on behalf of the child. How you can support the work of Fostering Connections St. Johns: • Sponsor a care package for a child entering foster care. • Support an outreach event by serving as an event sponsor. • Volunteer on one of their committees: 1. Backpack Brigade: Filling care packages for children in foster care and sponsoring needed essentials for foster families. 2. Marketing: Assisting with promoting FCSJ and its message

planning and implementing educational programs and outreach events for foster families. 4. Events: Leading and planning their two annual fundraisers, Night of the Arts and Foster Friends 5K. On Saturday, May 1 from 6pm to 10pm, Fostering Connections St. Johns will be hosting its “Night of the Arts” fundraiser at Fantasy Farms, 194 South Roscoe Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach, with live painting demonstrations, auctions, cocktails, catering by Sporks, and more. The event will be primarily outdoors at 50% capacity with social distancing precautions in place. Tickets are $75 per person. To purchase tickets or, for more information on how you can support Fostering Connections St. Johns, visit fosteringconnectionsstjohns.org or call 904-813-5809.j

fosteringconnectionsstjohns.org

EMPOWER YOUR CHILD WITH

CONFIDENCE FOR LIFETIME SUCCESS

Taking a martial arts class specifically designed and created with these seven steps for leadership development can be very beneficial. We can help you teach them to: Make a commitment to grow daily. Value the process more than the events. Don’t wait for inspiration. Be willing to sacrifice pleasure for opportunity.

Contact your local Karate America school for a free consultation and current specials. MARCH 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 4

Dream big. It doesn’t pay to dream small. Plan THE priorities. Give up to go up.

www.KarateAmerica.info

March is National Nutrition Month®! ational Nutrition Month was started in N 1973 as National Nutrition Week that evolved into a month-long observance in 1980 ®

in response to growing interest in nutrition. The second Wednesday of March is Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist Day as an annual celebration of the dedication of dietitians as the leading advocates for advancing the nutritional status of Americans and people around the world through all stages of the life cycle. This year’s theme Personalize Your Plate is a celebration of our multicultural diversity, understanding that not everyone’s food choices are going to look the same. “Developing a healthful eating pattern is not a one-size-fits all endeavor. The key is tailoring your favorite foods to meet your individual needs” as released in a statement by the Academy. Personalize Your Plate promotes creating nutritious meals to meet individuals’ cultural and personal food preferences. Registered Dietitians/Nutritionists help clients adjust traditional recipes, provide alternative cooking methods and other healthful advice for incorporating family-favorite foods into everyday meals. Here’s some ways to personalize your plate from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: 1. Pizza tonight? Try adding broccoli, spinach, green or red peppers, tomatoes, mushrooms and zucchini for toppings. 2. No time for breakfast? Try a smoothie made by blending low-fat milk (or milk alternative) and frozen fruit such as mango, berries, banana or peaches. 3. Finger foods for kids? Grill colorful kabobs using a variety of vegetables such as tomatoes, mushrooms, peppers and onions alternating with meat or meat alternatives. 4. Boring salads? Add color to salads with

baby carrots, grape tomatoes, spinach leaves or mandarin oranges. 5. Tired of serving the same fruits? Try pureeing apples, berries, peaches or pears in a blender for a sweet sauce that can be used on grilled or broiled seafood or poultry, or as a natural topping on pancakes, French toast or waffles. 6. Plain baked potato blues? Top with beans and salsa or broccoli and low-fat cheese. 7. Mix it up! Make your main dish a salad of dark, leafy greens and other colorful vegetables. Add chickpeas (garbanzo beans) or edamame (fresh soybeans). Top with your family’s favorite dressing. 8. Grill your way to new favorites! Make kabobs with pineapple, peaches and banana. Grill on low heat until fruit is hot and slightly golden. 9. Stock up for the season! Stock your freezer with frozen vegetables to steam or stir fry when you need a quick side dish. 10. Give them healthy choices! Place colorful fruit where everyone can easily grab something for a snack on the go. Keep a bowl of fresh, whole fruits in the center of your kitchen or dining room table so it’s visible and accessible. j For more information, go to www.eatright.org Aurea Thompson, MSH, RD, CSP, LD/N Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Nutrition Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Things to Do Eating Well Events

Clay County Strawberry Fest March 6-7, 10am to 5pm The Clay County Strawberry Fest features food, Plant City strawberries, arts & crafts, strawberry shortcake, live entertainment, free bounce houses, strawberry fudge, pony rides, face painting, free petting farm, Berry Cute Baby Contest, train rides, free inside toddler play area, bean bag toss, sack races, and more. Admission is $6 for adults and kids. Children 2 & under are free. Free parking. $1 off admission with canned good donation to benefit the local food bank. Clay County Fairgrounds / 386-860-0092 / 2497 State Road 16 West, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 / www.claycountyfest.com/ Cultured Kids Cuisine March 7, 17, 21, 3:30pm and March 13, 27, 1:30pm Cultured Kids Cuisine hosts a series of virtual cooking classes called Come Cook With Us. Each class is free and hosted online via Zoom. Cultured Kids Cuisine is a non-profit organization whose mission is to educate children about culture through food and cooking. The organization provides resources (i.e. online & in-person classes, educational blog posts, recipe + lesson kits) for children around the world to participate in activities designed to teach culture while engaging in a fun, recreational pursuit. This is best suited for ages 6 and up with adult supervision. Please note that the Zoom link and ingredient list for the cooking workshop will become available once the registration is complete. You will receive an email where you will see an orange box titled "View the event"; once you click on it, it will lead you to the information. The full recipe will be given during the live event. Each class will feature a different cuisine. Cultured Kids Cuisine / culturedkidscuisine@ gmail.com / linktr.ee/CulturedKidsCuisine History in the Kitchen March 13, 10:30am to 11:15am This three-part series will illuminate what kinds of food were eaten by different people in colonial Virginia. Discover how to prepare a simple recipe each week. Every 45-minute session spotlights a dish eaten by one of the following groups: the Mason family, people enslaved at Gunston Hall, and the white laborers, shopkeepers, and tenant farmers of Virginia. Participants will discover how social class and wealth affected what food people had access to. Discover how working people made the most of long-term food storage for winter meals, stocking their pantries and root cellars with food from their fields and what they could afford to purchase. Try your hand at winter cooking and make stewed parsnips, a hearty and delicious dish for chilly days. This program is designed for families with kids 10-18, but is open to participants of all ages. All sessions are complimentary. Gunston Hall / 703-550-9220 / lvilliva@gunstonhall.org / gunstonhall.org

St. Patrick’s Day Delight Bites March 15, 6pm Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with some festive foods. This is a hands-on cooking class, and participants will be working side by side with chefs to create these menu items. The menu features Mini Reuben Egg Rolls with Spicy Mustard Sauce, Beefy Cottage Hand Pies, Irish Lamb Nachos with Jalapeño Slaw Topping, and Bite-Size Irish Apple Cakes. Cost is $50/participant. Publix Aprons Cooking School / 904-262-4187 / 10500 San Jose Blvd Ste 36, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www.publix.com Big & Little Chef: Brunch March 20, 28, 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 Egg, Muffin, and Chicken Sausage Sandwich, Peach & Raisin stuffed Crepes topped with Vanilla Cream Sauce, Biscuits & Gravy, and Cheese Grits with Chicken Tenders. 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 Family Cooking: Gnocchi March 21, 5:30pm to 8pm Learn to make traditional potato gnocchi, a classic Italian style pasta. The Chef will teach you how to prepare these pillowy light dumplings. Then you’ll create the gnocchi you will eat for dinner. The menu includes Hand Rolled Gnocchi, Gorgonzola Cream Sauce, Tomato Basil Rose Sauce (House-made), and Citrus Greens with Candied Nuts and Goat Cheese. The price is $55 per adult and child over 14. Bring a child up to age 14 with a Registered Adult for $35. (Max of 2 child tickets per registered adult, please). Jax Cooking Studio / 904-742–5906 / 14035 Beach Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / jaxcookingstudio.com Social Distance Farm & Flea March 27, 9am to 1:30pm Orange Park Mall has partnered with The Clay Chamber to bring a socially distanced farmers market to the local community. Farm & Flea will be located at The Grove at Orange Park Mall and will feature local vendors, makers and food trucks. The Grove is a grassy, shaded, lot adjacent to the Dick's Sporting Goods and JCPenney parking lots. In an effort to keep shoppers, vendors, and staff as safe as possible while continuing the essential service of providing fresh food to the community, they have implemented social distancing and additional sanitation measures. Please maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from other shoppers, especially when in line. Orange Park Mall / 904-269-2422 / 1910 Wells Road, Orange Park, FL 32073 / orangeparkmall. com

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

MARCH 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 5

HEALTH & SAFETY

Preventing Virus Particles from Accumulating in Your Home taying home with only members of your Consider using a portable air cleaner. S household is the best way to keep SARS-CoV-2 If you don’t have an HVAC system or just want extra (the virus that causes COVID-19) particles out of your home. However, if a visitor needs to be in your home, improving ventilation (air flow) can help prevent virus particles from accumulating in the air in your home. Good ventilation, along with other preventive actions, like staying 6 feet apart and wearing masks, can help prevent you from getting and spreading COVID-19.

Below are ways you can improve ventilation in your home. Use as many ways as you can (open windows, use air filters, and turn on fans) to help clear out virus particles in your home faster. Bring as much fresh air into your home as possible. Bringing fresh, outdoor air into your home helps keep virus particles from accumulating inside. •

• •

•

If it’s safe to do so, open doors and windows as much as you can to bring in fresh, outdoor air. While it’s better to open them wide, even having a window cracked open slightly can help. If you can, open multiple doors and windows to allow more fresh air to move inside. Do not open windows and doors if doing so is unsafe for you or others (for example, presence of young children and pets, risk of falling, triggering asthma symptoms, high levels of outdoor pollution). If opening windows or doors is unsafe, consider other approaches for reducing virus particles in the air, such as using air filtration and bathroom and stove exhaust fans.

Filter the air in your home. If your home has a central heating, ventilation and air conditioning system (HVAC, a system with air ducts that go throughout the home) that has a filter, do the following to help trap virus particles: •

•

• • •

In homes where the HVAC fan operation can be controlled by a thermostat, set the fan to the “on” position instead of “auto” when you have visitors. This allows the fan to run continuously, even if heating or air conditioning is not on. Use pleated filters — they are more efficient than ordinary furnace filters and can be found in hardware stores. They should be installed initially within the HVAC system by a professional, if possible. If that is not possible, carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions to replace the filter yourself. Make sure the filter fits properly in the unit. Change your filter every three months or according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Ideally, have the ventilation system inspected and adjusted by a professional every year to make sure it is operating efficiently.

filtration, consider using a portable high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) cleaner. They are the most efficient filters on the market for trapping particles that people exhale when breathing, talking, singing, coughing, and sneezing.

When choosing a HEPA cleaner, select one that is the right size for the room(s). One way to do this is to select a HEPA fan system with a Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) that meets or exceeds the square footage of the room in which it will be used. The larger the CADR, the faster it will clean the air. Turn on the exhaust fan in your bathroom and kitchen. Exhaust fans above your stovetop and in your bathroom that vent outdoors can help move air outside. Although some stove exhaust fans don’t send the air to the outside, they can still improve air flow and keep virus particles from being concentrated in one place. • •

Keep the exhaust fan turned on over your stovetop and in your bathroom if you have visitors in your home. Keep the exhaust fans turned on for an hour after your visitors leave to help remove virus particles that might be in the air.

Use fans to improve air flow. Place a fan as close as possible to an open window blowing outside. This helps get rid of virus particles in your home by blowing air outside. Even without an open window, fans can improve air flow. • •

Point fans away from people. Pointing fans toward people can possibly cause contaminated air to flow directly at them. Use ceiling fans to help improve air flow in the home whether or not windows are open.

Limit the number of visitors in your home and the time spent inside. The more people inside your home, and the longer they stay, the more virus particles can accumulate. • • •

• •

Limit the number of visitors in your home. Try to gather in larger rooms or areas where you can stay at least 6 feet apart. Be sure that everyone wears a mask while visitors are in your home. This includes the visitors as well as the people who usually live in your home. Keep visits as short as possible. Follow additional CDC recommendations for hosting gatherings.j

cdc.gov

Things to Do

block party to celebrate, which will include music and food. There will also be medals for all finishers. Each participant will receive a race bag with specialty items. The MOO-VE IT 5K will benefit the Jacksonville Arts & Music School (JAMS). JAMS is a creative youth development organization that provides arts education and Parent Education and Family Stabilization leadership development to students grades 3-10 Course Mondays and Fridays, March 1, 5, 8, 12, 15, 19, from underserved communities in Jacksonville. Registration fees for the fun run are $25; fees 22, 26, 29, 9am to 1pm for the 5K range from $35 to $40. This class is for parents going through a The Cowford Chophouse / 101 East Bay St, divorce with minor children. Divorce can be Jacksonville, FL 32202 / 1stplacesports.com an earth-shattering experience for parents and kids. Kids may feel confused, frightened or even Drowning Prevention relieved about this change happening with their March 9, 6pm; March 23, 6pm families. It can be hard for parents to be there for their children when they are trying to sort out Pediatric Associates hosts this free session that will discuss water safety for your child and their own thoughts, feelings and plans for the future. Positive Development is an approved pro- drowning prevention. Hosted by Casey McGovern, Drowning Prevention Manager, Florida vider of the 4 hour Parent Education and Family Department of Health in Broward County. The Stabilization Course required by Florida. Each session will cover the following topics & more: class is $60 per participant. How often drownings occur, How to prevent Positive Development / 904-516-0913 / 9521 drownings, Different aspects of water safety, Shellie Road, Suite 13, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / Vehicle submersions and how to escape, and www.positivedevelopmentllc.com Learn to swim resources. Held online as a free virtual event. Cyberbullying: When Digital Drama Goes Too Pediatric Associates / 954-966-8000 / pediatriFar cassociates.com March 2, 6pm to 7pm The risk of cyberbullying is on the rise due to a The Wonder Years: A Parent's Guide to Disrecord number of students spending more time cussing Physical, Emotional, & Mental Health on the Internet, combined with the increasing March 16, 7pm to 8pm popularity of social media. Educate yourself on As children enter adolescence, families are the signs of bullying, associated behaviors, and faced with a many changes. These may include strategies for talking to your child(ren) about hormonal, mental, emotional, physical, and them. The Parent Academy of Duval County academic changes. Hear strategies to help you Public Schools is a free family resource that promotes parental involvement, enhances student better navigate these stages of development and learn about DCPS families. The Parent Academy achievement, and supports a caregiver's need for personal and individual growth. This course is of Duval County Public Schools is a free family resource that promotes parental involvement, held online. enhances student achievement, and supports Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / a caregiver's need for personal and individual ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org / dcps.duvalgrowth. This course is held online. schools.org Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org / dcps. How to Access DCPS Counseling and Student duvalschools.org Support March 2, 6pm to 7pm The Gate River Run Every DCPS student, even those learning at March 20, 8am home, have access to mental health counseling The Gate River Run staff is planning a live event through face-to-face or virtual appointments. following social distancing guidelines. However, Learn how to help your child(ren) access this there is the possibility that due to the COVID-19 service. The Parent Academy of Duval County crisis the status of the event could change. If the Public Schools is a free family resource that promotes parental involvement, enhances student live event is cancelled, we will move to a virtual achievement, and supports a caregiver's need for event. In this case, registration fees will not be refunded or transferred. For 2021, the Gate personal and individual growth. This course is River Run will feature a 15K and 5K. There will held online. be no Junior River Run, Brooks Challenge Mile, Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / or Diaper Dash for the 2021 year. Registration ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org / dcps.duvalfees start at $40. schools.org Jacksonville Fairgrounds / 510 Fairgrounds Place, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / gateriverrun15k. Moo-ve It 5K and Fun Run com March 6, 8am This family-friendly event will consist of a 5K which will start at 8am and a one mile fun run that starts at 9:30am. There will be a post-race Visit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list

Health & Safety Events

of Health & Safety events.

MARCH 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 6

SPECIAL NEEDS Benefits of Music for ADHD Brains hildren with ADHD experience out-sized benefits C from music. The rhythm, melody, tempo, and lyrics of music may be harnessed to help them activate focus, boost organizational skills, incentivize desired behaviors, improve ADHD symptoms, and more.

Music improves attention and focus. The temporal and rhythmic properties of music are thought to modulate some symptoms of inattentiveness. Playing, or learning to play an instrument, can also help develop skills needed for sustaining attention, alternating attention, impulse control, and decision-making. One study found that children who studied a musical instrument showed better auditory connectivity in the brain, which is often diminished in ADHD brains. Music lessons also increase your child’s ability to work in a noisy environment, which is useful for coping with distractions. Music reinforces memory. Attaching information to lyrics and melody helps children remember important items. Try teaching phone numbers, addresses, chores, and procedures (like washing hands or tying shoes) to the tune of your child’s favorite songs. Music acts as a study aid. For some students, listening to music while studying works well because it keeps the brain activated, focused, and less prone to distractions. There is no single musical genre that is best for studying – it is entirely individual. Whether the lyrics in your child’s preferred music are appropriate is another discussion, but don’t automatically rule out hip hop or heavy metal; it might work to focus your child. Encourage your child to explore genres and to use headphones with comfortable volume levels. Music helps keep track of time. Time blindness is common with ADHD, and music helps build time perception and awareness skills. Rather than have your child do homework or chores to the beat of a timer, try playing a song or timed playlist. It may be easier for your child to keep pace with a favorite soundtrack rather than an unstimulating timer or clock. Music also teaches predictability – a certain point in a song or playlist can act as a marker, letting your child know that it’s time to move to the next step or wrap up. Music boosts energy. A good tune can pump up the brain and body, upping dopamine levels and increasing your child’s motivation to tackle even the least desirable of tasks. As with study music, have your child listen to different genres to see what works best. Ask them how they feel listening to each type of music – Are they more anxious? More in the zone? Perhaps too amped up and energized? If your child has excess energy, music and movement are great ways to channel it. Try enrolling your young child into a developmental music program such as Music Together or Kindermusik helps build a variety of skills through the experience of music. Older children may benefit from dance classes or other group music experiences.

Music promotes calm. Just as music can boost our energy, it can also calm and soothe us, making it an effective tool for emotional regulation. Again, the choice in music is personal. Some children relax to an audio track of nature or a composition without lyrics. Others feel calm and happy while listening to an upbeat pop song. Music improves self-esteem. Too many children with ADHD experience low self-esteem. Creating music and learning to play an instrument can build self-confidence and a skill in which they can take pride. It can also teach children about the importance of practice and persistence in the process of crafting something special and enjoyable. Music is also quite normalizing – your child can bond with peers by talking about music, the instruments they play, and their favorite bands. Joining an orchestra or band at school is great for building social skills while pursuing musical interests. As music and movement are joined at the hip, many children benefit from dance or another movement experience that works with music. If your child wants to learn how to play an instrument, make sure to explore a variety of them – piano, drums, guitar, cello, etc. – to find the one that truly sings. Music reinforces desired behaviors. If listening to or performing music is a rewarding activity for your child, use it to encourage follow-through. Offer a jam session or music video, for example, after your child completes their homework. Music encourages introspection. Songwriting promotes emotional expression and introspection – exercises that can help children better understand their feelings, themselves, and how to effectively communicate their feelings to others. School-aged children can benefit from partaking in songwriting activities. With teens, who are just beginning to build their sense of self and independence, songwriting can be especially fruitful for self-exploration. Parents can learn a lot about their child’s emotional state, priorities, and passions through these exercises. There are many ways to explore songwriting, including fill-in-the-blank exercises where children swap out known lyrics to a familiar tune with their own.

Things to Do Special Needs Events Brooks Pediatric Recreation – Where the Wild Books Are Wednesdays, March 3, 10, 4pm-ages 5-7; 5pm-ages 8 and older Visit the wild world of books with Ms. Laura as she takes your child on a language enriching, thematic journey while developing important literacy skills. The story time will engage students by modeling reading strategies such as visualization and drawing. This is a virtual 8-week session. All classes will be held through Zoom meetings. Once registered, you will receive the meeting ID and password. Brooks Rehab / 904-345-7501 / pediatricrecreation@brooksrehab.org / brooksrehab. org CARD Young Adult Support Group March 8, 4:30pm to 5:30pm A virtual meeting place for CARD constituents ages 17 to 25, where participants can learn, share, and understand one another through common, comparable experiences and receive helpful guidance. Registration is required. After registration you will be sent the Zoom meeting link and password. CARD / 904-244-3056 / anne.wilson@jax. ufl.edu / pediatrics.med.jax.ufl.edu CARD/FDLRS-MDC - Parent Support Group March 8, 5pm to 6pm A Parent Group hosted by the UF Jacksonville CARD and FDLRS-MDC, with the goal of helping parents/primary caregivers strengthen the parent-child relationships, while learning about resources and supports from professionals and other parents within the CARD and FDLRS-MDC communities. Free. Jacksonville CARD / 352-265-2230 / marlena.jenkins@jax.ufl.edu / card.ufl.edu Social Skills – Gamegroup March 9, 23, 5pm

The CARD/FDLRS-MDC Game Group is a bi-weekly opportunity for quality social interactions with peers. The focus is on social communication, career exploration, everyday life discussions and building meaningful relationships within the group. Prerequisite Requirements: Teens must be between ages of 13-19 years and registered with CARD or FDLRS-MDC, and speak with your CARD/FDLRS-MDC point of contact in order to determine if your teen meets the prerequisite skills needed to partake in this group. All group meetings are now held online via Zoom. CARD and FDLRS-MDC are discretionary projects of the Florida Department of Education. These grant funded programs do not charge for their services. Jacksonville CARD / 904-633-0769 / gina. bauer@jax.ufl.edu / pediatrics.med.jax.ufl. edu Kiddin’ Around March 11, 25, 5pm A program which focuses on opportunities for social interaction with peers via board games and card games. Skill areas include: sharing the conversation, waiting, turn taking, giving compliments, accepting feedback, playing games fairly, oversharing of information, and making friends. Register online to participate. Families register once and can select all dates they wish to attend. Jacksonville CARD / 904-633-0760 / marlena.jenkins@jax.ufl.edu / pediatrics.med. jax.ufl.edu Sibshops March 17, 5pm Sibshop is a gathering of siblings across the ages to create community, build support and share in the stories that make us unique as the sibling of individuals with developmental, intellectual, social-emotional, and medical disabilities. Held online via Zoom. CARD / 904-633-0760 / audrey.bringman@ jax.ufl.edu / pediatrics.med.jax.ufl.edu Visit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list of Special Needs events.

Music teaches empathy. Lyric analysis teaches children about point-of-view, the thoughts and feelings of others, and self-reflection. Open up a discussion with your child about a favorite song and ask them to think about what the lyrics mean. What might the artist be trying to say? What clues do the lyrics provide? Try having your child write out the lyrics on paper to truly probe them.j additudemag.com

MARCH 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 7

INFANT & TODDLER

Tips for Reading to Infants and Toddlers

t’s never too soon to start reading to your children! If your child learns early to associate reading with pleasure, she is more likely to enjoy reading on her own when she is older. Try these successful reading tips for reading to • infants and toddlers:

• Snuggle with your child with her favorite blanket or toys as you read. • Read with expression using different voices for different characters. • Emphasize rhythms and rhymes in stories. Give your toddler opportunities to repeat rhyming phrases. • Use pictures to build vocabulary by varying objects and their colors. • Use pictures to develop speaking vocabulary by talking about what is shown. • Encourage your child to repeat what you say or comment on it. Encourage your

• •

•

child to ask questions. Provide models of interesting questions and examples of possible answers. “I wonder what is going to happen next? I think the rabbit will get lost because he is not paying attention to where he is going. What do you think?” Look for books that are about things that interest your toddler. For example, does your child like cars, insects, or animals? Make reading a habit for bedtime, after lunch, or after naptime. Give your child a chance to choose his own books. If your toddler chooses a book that is too long to hold his attention, read some and skip some, discussing the pictures and how they relate to the story. Read stories again and again. Your toddler enjoys repetition and it helps him become familiar with the way stories are organized.j

nea.org

Books that Foster a Love of Reading

Book! by Kristine O’Connell George and Maggie Smith, Ages Baby – 5

Charlie Cook’s Favorite Book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, Ages 3 - 5

I Love My Little Storybook by Anita Jeram Ages 2 - 5

The Wonderful Book by Leonid Gore, Ages 3 -5

worldcat.org

MARCH 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 8

I Like Books by Anothony Browne Ages 2 – 6

We Are in a Book! by Mo Willems, Ages 3 – 5

Things to Do Infant & Toddler Events

Mini Monday at Color Me Mine Mondays, March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 12noon to 8pm Mondays are Mini Mondays at Color Me Mine, with $1 studio fees for preschoolers all day. Hours are temporarily modified; Color Me Mine is open 12noon to 8pm. Color Me Mine / 904-338-9333 / 10300 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / jacksonville.colormemine.com Toddler Time at Get Air Trampoline Park Tuesdays and Thursdays, March 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30, 10am to 12noon Get Air Trampoline Park hosts Toddler Time for little kids under 46". Little Air jumpers and their parents are the only ones allowed during this time. Parents cannot share a trampoline with a child, but can jump near them. Cost is $9.99 per child, and one parent jumps free. Get Air Trampoline Park / 904-267-1001 / 1564 Park Ave, Orange Park, FL 32073 / getairsports.com Story Time Art at Doing Dishes Pottery Studio March 2 and 5, 9:30am Class is once a month on Tuesday & Friday at 9:30am. Reservations are required. For $18, your child will hear a story and then paint a corresponding piece. This class is designed for you and your child to create Doing Dishes' scheduled projects together. Smaller children will need guardians help. Doing Dishes / 904-730-3729 / 5619 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www.doingdishes.com Baby's Nutrition: Starting Solids March 3, 6pm to 7pm Pediatric Associates hosts a virtual class for parents. The class will help parents understand their baby's nutrition journey, development cues and when to start solid foods. Learn when to offer, what to offer and how to offer foods to your baby. The class is taught by a registered dietitian nutritionist. Free. Pediatric Associates / 954-966-8000 / www.pediatricassociates.com

MOSH Molecules March 4, 18, 2pm and 6, 20, 10am, 11:30am, 2pm The Museum of Science & History’s newest early childhood program provides big learning for the youngest guests. Geared for children ages 3, 4 and 5, MOSH Molecules allows you and your child to explore and create memories in a safe environment. Each month’s classes will be themed- Animals, Space, Science or Art. Program content may include any of the following: reading a book, completing a craft, physical activity, free play, handson activity, songs and dance. Classes will last 45 minutes. Museum of Science and History / 904-396-6674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org Pediatric Associates Virtual New Parent Class March 13, 12:30pm; March 24, 6pm; March 31, 6pm Designed specifically for expectant parents, the free virtual one-hour course covers numerous topics on preparing for your new arrival, such as your child's development, immunizations, breast vs bottle feeding, and more. Pediatric Associates / 954-966-8000 / www.pediatricassociates.com Toddler Time at Bravoz Entertainment Center March 30, 9:30am to 11:30am Bravoz Entertainment Center hosts Toddler Time on the last Tuesday morning of each month, from 9:30am - 11:30am. During this time, the facility is reserved for the exclusive use of kids ages 5 & under. Held Tuesday mornings thru April. One adult is admitted for free with each child’s $8 paid admission. Additional parents/friends can jump for $8. A valid waiver & Grip Socks are required for all participants. Bravoz Entertainment Center / 904300-0070 / 14985 Old St Augustine Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32258 / bravoz.com

INFANT & TODDLER

How To Make Sure Your Baby Gets the Nap Time They Need e know that sleep is essential for childhood By 12 months old, your baby is usually down W development. In fact, children will spend to just 1 nap per day. The morning nap typically 40% of their childhood asleep! ends around 12 months, meaning your baby is So, how much of that sleep should be from naps? How long should your baby nap for, and is there an age when napping should end? Here are some helpful napping tips, so you know where and when napping is best for your child. Because children need so much sleep, especially in the first few years of life, napping is a great way to ensure they’re getting all the sleep they need. Here’s how much sleep your little one needs to help keep their development on track: • • • •

just taking an afternoon nap at this point. You can make the afternoon nap and their bedtime earlier to help with the transition. Before the age of 3, naps are typically 1-2 hours long. This helps your child get all the sleep they need! After turning 3, naps gradually shorten (possibly to just 1 hour), but there is no perfect amount of time to sleep.

There is no age when napping has to end, but most children phase out of napping by first grade. This is typically the age when children Babies 0-3 months should sleep 12 to 17 start full-day school, which can make napping hours a day more difficult. By this age, it is recommended Babies 4 months to 12 months should sleep that children get 9 to 12 hours of sleep per day, 12 to 16 hours a day which is possible without a nap. Children 1 to 2 years of age should sleep 11 to 14 hours a day Naps are best done is a dark and quiet Children 3 to 5 years of age should sleep 10 environment. Even though the sun may be to 13 hours a day shining, try to make your child’s nap space as dark as possible so they can get a restful sleep. Always be sure to follow safe sleep guidelines, even if it’s just a short nap. Follow these best practices for baby’s sleep and child’s sleep.

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

Helping Children. Helping Families.

Remember: every child is different! Schedules, nap lengths, and number of naps may vary. No matter how or when your baby naps, the best thing to try and do is be consistent with their schedule, which usually takes about 3 months to develop. A naptime routine may help with this.

In order to meet these high hour totals, babies and children take naps throughout the day. In their first year of life, babies typically nap 2-3 times a day. Most babies will take at least a morning nap and an early afternoon nap. Some babies take a third nap in the late afternoon, but it is recommended babies phase out of the third nap around 9 months so they are ready for an earlier bedtime.

It’s also important to remember every day is different. While establishing a routine is great, there are going to be factors that disrupt routines. Do your best to keep the same routine even during holidays and weekends, but know that temporary changes may happen, and that’s okay! Aim to get your baby back on track when you can. If you feel like your child is having trouble sleeping or sleeping too much, contact their healthcare provider.j pathways.org

“Life doesn’t come with a manual, it comes with a mother.” Visit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list Infant & Toddler Events.

- Unknown

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.

MARCH 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 9

SPRING BREAK CAMPS Bach 2 Rock Spring Camps March 8 - 12, 2021 9am - 4pm Ages 7 - 17. Rock Band - Designed for students of all levels, from beginners to seasoned artists, this program is taught by real musicians using the unique B2R method, which will have students playing full songs in no time! Students are placed in a band according to their age and skill level and the requirements of ensemble playing, teamwork and achievement of musical objectives are stressed. Depending on ability level, development of original material is strongly encouraged. Each weekly session culminates in a public performance and the recording of a CD. This camp is split into two age categories: for kids 7 - 9 and 9+. Cost: $75/day. jacksonvillebeach.b2rmusic.com / 904-3727766 / 2280 3rd St S, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 First Coast YMCA Spring Break Day Camp March 8 - 12, 2021 - Duval County March 15 - 19, 2021 - Clay County March 17 - 19, 2021 - St Johns County 6:30am - 6pm For ages 5-12. At the Y’s Spring Break Day Camp, children have the chance to participate in themed games, stir up their imagination, get plenty of exercise, and make new friends. Activities include: Arts and Crafts, Field Trips, Team Sports, Games, Science Experiments and more. They will have fun just being a kid in a safe and enriching environment. Plus, you can sign up for any number of days. Both members and non-members are welcome to attend, so invite your friends. For more information or to register your child, stop by the Welcome Center at your local Y. Pricing may vary by camp location. Daily rates are also available. Visit website for details per location. www.firstcoastymca.org. Jacksonville Humane Society Spring Break Camp March 10 – 12 and March 17 - 19, 2021 9am - 4pm Children in grades 2-8 are invited to spend Spring Break with the animals at the Jacksonville Humane Society. Campers will study animal behavior, spend time interacting with dogs and cats, help socialize kittens, learn how to help pets at home and in the community, make enrichment items for our four-legged friends, and so much more. Cost: $75 for one day or $200 for all three days. Extended care available for an additional $20 flat fee. www.jaxhumane.org / 904-725-8766 / 8464 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, 32216 Jacksonville Zoo Spring Break Camp March 8 - 12, 2021 9am - 4pm Grades K - 5th. It’s time to come out of hibernation! Spring Zoo Camp is back and ready

to help your campers shake off the winter by exploring new life at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. Spring means bright flowers, cheery bird song, and baby animals – and camp means amazing activities, keeper chats, and encounters with Education Animal Ambassadors. Combine the two for an unforgettable week of fun! Please note that face coverings are required for all campers. Cost: Members - Single Day - $50, 5 Days - $225. Non-Members - Single Day - $55, 5 Days - $247.50. Extended Care – 8am - 9am and 4pm - 5pm - $10/day. www.jacksonvillezoo.org / 904-757-4463 x122 / 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218 JAX Cooking Studios Spring Break Cooking Camps March 8 - 12, 2021 9am - 12pm Ages 6+. Join the cooking studio for some fun cooking up delicious food from scratch. In these classes, kids learn to cook with whole foods in a hands-on environment. Each day, they eat the food they make during class, so the kids never leave hungry! The menu changes each day and also between the same day morning and afternoon sessions. Cost: $60 per session. Class size limited to 16. Ages 6 - 16 from 9am - 12pm March 8 – 12. Teen Camps (Ages 12 and older) from 1:30pm - 4:30pm on March 10 and 12. jaxcookingstudio.com / 904-742-5906/ 14035 Beach Blvd, Suite 6, Jacksonville, FL 32250 Jacksonville Junior Volleyball Camp March 8 – 10 & March 17 - 19, 2021 9am - 1pm In this JJVA Spring Break Volleyball Camp, the world class JJVA coaching staff will focus on fundamental skills through game-based drills and daily scrimmages. This camp is open to boys and girls grades 4 – 12 (ages 10 and up). It is designed for the beginner to intermediate player and will incorporate teamwork and sportsmanship. Camp Cost & Registration: $129 Non-Members OR JJVA Member Special Pricing $99. www.jjva.com / 904-854-2323 / 8457 Western Way, Jacksonville, FL 32256 Jax Surf & Paddle Spring Break Camp March 8 - 12 and March 15-19, 2021 9am - 3pm Age 6 – 16. Jax Surf Camp is a fun and safe way to advance a child’s surfing skills, ocean knowledge, and comfort in the water. Campers will break into groups depending on age and skill. Intermediate level surfers are welcome as well as beginners. After completing the five-day surf camp, your child will have learned these fundamental skills: water safety, paddling, navigating the surf zone, and of course standing up on a board! Cost: Half Day – $220/week or $50/day. Full Day – $360/week or $100/day (lunch includ-

MARCH 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 10

ed). Camp Location: 7th St and Ocean Ave, Atlantic Beach, FL. 32233 jacksonvillesurfandpaddle.com / 904-4357873 / 222 Orange Street, Neptune Beach, FL 32266 Kidz Camp at Sports Edge March 8 - 12 and March 15 - 19, 2021 9am - 5pm Kidz Camp is open to boys and girls and caters to children from the ages of 5 to 9 years old. Kidz Camp is packed full of fun and games and includes activities like Dodgeball, Volleyball, Kickball, Archery, Nutrition and Fitness Activities, Arts and Crafts, Obstacles, Relay Races and Games. Camp Cost: Per Week (Full Day): $189, Per Week (Half Day): $110, and Daily Walk In: $50/day. Extended Care: 8am - 9am and 5 - 6pm for $60/week. www.jjva.com / 904-854-2323 / 8457 Western Way, Jacksonville, FL 32256 MOSH Discovery Camp March 8 - 12, 2021 9am – 3pm Extended Care: 7:30am – 5pm Kindergarten – 2nd Grade: Storybook Science Could the big, bad, wolf really blow down a house with just air? Is Oobleck a solid or a liquid? What soil is best to grow a beanstalk? With help from pirates, princesses, and other characters, campers will use science to investigate their favorite fairy tales and stories. 3rd – 5th Grade: Lights, Camera, Science! Get your popcorn ready! MOSH campers will learn how their favorite superheroes, villains, princesses, and other characters use science, as well as examine some of the behind-thescenes magic of the movies. From sampling special effects to creating their own short form videos, campers will be ready to take on Hollywood- or go viral- with their scientific knowledge! Cost: $180 for MOSH Members, $225 for Non-Members. Extended Day is $20 per child per day. www.themosh.org / 904-396-MOSH / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207

SUMMER CAMPS Sports Edge Baseball Camp March 8 – 9, March 10 - 11, and March 17 18, 2021 9am - 1pm Youth baseball camps for players ages 12 and under. Head Coach and Director, Matt Loosen, brings his years of High School, Collegiate and Professional level playing and coaching experience to analyze, identify and help players correct bad habits, perfect mechanics and develop solid foundational skills to make a significant difference in your players’ game. 2-Day Camps Cover: Fielding • Sport Specific Movement Training •Hitting • Swing Analysis and Evaluations • Pitching Mechanics • Catching Camps will include: 45 minutes of sports performance and agility training from GPA Fitness, 1 hour of defensive training (incl. pitching), skills and drills, 1 hour of batting. Camp Cost: 2 Days $129 www.jjva.com / 904-854-2323 / 8457 Western Way, Jacksonville, 32256 Unity Christian Arts Spring Break Dance Camp March 8 - 12, 2021 7am - 4pm Extended hours available Ages 5-16. Dance camps are Faith based but welcomes all to participate. Campers start each morning with prayer & Bible scriptures. Classes will include but not limited to: ballet, jazz, tap, choreography, drama skits, tambourine & flags. Other classes may include: streamers, stretch, creative dance and more. Showcase for parents & friends on Thursday - March 11th /3pm-4pm. Cost: $20/day. $20 Registration fee. They are wearing face masks for a COVID-SAFE ENVIRONMENT! GET THEIR NEW “UNITY DANCE” APP @ the Apple Store or Google Play! www.unitychristianarts.com / 904-466-8250 / 5730 Bowden Rd, Suite 103, Jacksonville, FL 32216

SUMMER CAMP JUNE, JULY & AUGUST 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM

$200

PER WEEK

INCLUDES BREAKFAST, FIELD TRIPS & SNACKS

At Camp Discovery our school-aged explorers spend the summer doing fun activities on campus and safely visiting exciting places all over the Jacksonville area. Expeditions include Jacksonville Zoo, St. Augustine Aquarium, Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens, and much more!

Amelia Island Kids Adventure Camp June 7 - August 4, 2021 9am - 2pm Amelia Island Kids Adventure Camp is for kids age 9-12 who would enjoy an immersive nature and skill building experience. Kids learn kayak skills, paddleboarding, and go on nature tours finding dolphin and other wildlife. The Adventure Camp goals are very simple: learn about nature, develop confidence building skills and have fun! Enrollment limited to 12 kids. Cost: $175 per child. 904-500-8687 / 432 South 8th Street Fernandina Beach Florida, 32034 / ameliaadventures.com

spend the summer doing fun activities on campus and safely visiting exciting places all over the Jacksonville area. Expeditions include Jacksonville Zoo, St. Augustine Aquarium, Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens, and much more! Cost: $200 per week includes breakfast, field trips, & snacks. COVID-19 safety guidelines are in place to keep the summer campers safe. thediscoverytreeacademy.com Oakleaf / 904-779-1770 / 7629 Old Middleburg Road, Jacksonville, 32222 / Lic# C04DU0391 San Pablo / 904-619-8797 / 3232 San Pablo Road, Jacksonville, 32224 / Lic# C04DU0350

Aquatics Camp June 14 – July 9, 2021 Owned and operated by the North Florida Council, Boy Scouts of America, the property is located at the St. Johns River Base at Echockotee sitting on Doctors Inlet in Orange Park. Aquatics Camp serves boys and girls ages 6-14. A camper’s day is filled with activities that bring them from the shores of Doctors Lake to the heights of the climbing wall, and from the woods of the archery range to catching some air off the back of one of the wakeboard boats. Extended Care Available. Discounts for multiple weeks, siblings, & early registration by April 15, 2021. 904-269-2091 / 2513 Doctors Lake Dr, Orange Park, 32073 / www.aquaticscamp.org

Children’s Art Classes Summer Workshops June 7 – July 9, 2021 Students may participate in a variety of weekly art workshops. Each workshop will meet each day, Monday through Friday, for each selected week. Students may participate in as many as four different 5-Day workshops at Baymeadows location for a four-week period over the summer. The cost of each 5-Day workshop is $98 and includes all supplies. Each Workshop will require payment in full at the time of registration. www.childrensartclasses.com / 904-612-7557 Baymeadows / 8411 Baymeadows Way, Jacksonville, FL 32256 Beaches / 880 US Highway A1A North Suite Six, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082

Bach to Rock Summer Music Camps June 7 - August 6, 2021 Sessions run Monday-Friday Full and half day options are available. Ages 7-17. B2R's unique method is based on the knowledge that students learn best when they join together to play the music they like the most. Their camps invite children to do just that: join a group, learn about music, and work toward a performance. For ages 7+, kids can join a band, singing group, or even learn how to be a recording engineer (ages 10+). Ages 4-7 are invited to tour the world through instrument exploration. These creative group activities foster teamwork, build self-esteem and encourage kids to become seasoned performers. Cost: $229-$329. 904-372-7766 / 2280 3rd St. S., Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / jacksonvillebeach.b2rmusic.com

Conservation Camp June 14 - July 30, 2021 9am - 3pm Conservation Camp is a unique, one-of-a-kind program led by a team of dedicated naturalists and scientists that gives children ages 8-13 the opportunity to spend a week as a wildlife biologist. Campers will learn real life applications of environmental sciences, meet animal ambassadors, and embark on an amazing journey to explore the ecosystems of Florida, native plants and animals, and how to make an impact through conservation of wildlife and their habitat! Cost is $299 weekly, $275 for TreeHill member, $250 for active-duty military, and a 10% family discount for siblings. 800-690-5638 / 7152 Lonestar Rd, Jacksonville, 32211 / www.savethebuzztails.org

Camp Broadway June 7 – 11, 2021 8:30am - 5pm Ages 10 – 17. Camp Broadway introduces young people to the world of life on-stage and behind the scenes. Campers get training in singing, dancing, acting, scene study, improvisation, music theory and movement. With authentic Broadway instructors teaching dance routines and musical numbers at the same break-neck speed as a real Broadway show, Camp Broadway is a fun-filled week of activities designed to teach kids about the serious business of live theater. Camp tuition is $575 for the week and includes lunch, snacks, and a t-shirt. 904-632-5000 / 11901 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, 32246 / www.fscjartistseries.org Camp Discovery June, July & August 2021 6:30am - 6:30pm At Camp Discovery the school-aged explorers

TOMMY HULIHAN BASKETBALL SU M M E R SPOR T S CA M P JUNE 7 - AUGUST 6 9 Sessions Boys & Girls K - 6th Grade Weekly Sessions and Single Day Rates Available Extended Care Available

SUMMER BASKETBALL CAMP DATES AND TIMES TO BE DETERMINED.

BEACHES BASKETBA LL SU MMER LEAGU E

MAY 29 - JULY 31 Deadline Monday, May 10

BASKETBA LL TRA INING

Individual, Small Group, Player Development and Shooting Clinics

TommyHulihanBasketball.com 904-349-2611

ALL EVENTS Held @ Beaches Chapel School Gym 610 Florida Blvd., Neptune Beach, FL 32266

Diamond D Ranch Summer Camps June 14 - July 23, 2021 Day Camp: 8:30am - 5pm Ages 8-17. Opportunity to learn about horses and horsemanship. Camp is for both the beginner and those who already have some knowledge of horses. Day Camp Cost: $525 + tax per week. Lunch and snacks are provided. Non-refundable deposit is required. This will be taken from the total cost of each camp price. Overnight Camp: Begins Monday morning at 8:30am until Friday at 5pm. Overnight campers are provided with breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack, and supper and dessert. Your child will sleep in an air-conditioned bunkhouse, complete with restrooms and shower facilities. Overnight Camp Cost: $825 + tax per week. Non-refundable deposit is required. This will be taken from the total cost of each camp price. 904-289-9331 / 5903-1 Solomon Rd, Jacksonville, 32234 / www.diamonddranchinc.com

MARCH 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 11

SUMMER CAMPS Episcopal School of Jacksonville Day Camp June 1 – July 30, 2021 9am - 3pm / 9am - 5:30pm Grades: Rising 1 - 8. Lower-elementary (K-2) Day Camp introduces adventure and comradery in and out-of-doors to younger students. Outdoor activities include water activities, along with time in the pool and field play, to emphasize gross motor movements essential to being a little kid! Indoor activities include gym, lower-elementary STEM activities, as well as themed arts and crafts with an early literacy focus. Grades: Rising 3 - 8. Camp is co-ed, with age-appropriate cohorts. Outdoor activities include disc golf, kayaking, fishing, swimming, and archery. Indoor activities include gym, STEM in the physics lab, and a refurbished game room at Jangro Stadium. Added for 2021 is a new woodshop where campers get to learn basic carpentry. Cost: (9am3pm) $280/week, (9am-5:30pm) $355/week. 904-396-5751 / 4455 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www.esj.org/summer Good Lad Soccer Camps June 14 – July 26, 2021 9am - 3pm Good Lad Soccer provides the only indoor soccer camps in the First Coast across two great venues: Jacksonville Ice and Sportsplex and Above Athletics near Ponte Vedra for the 7-10 year old players. As with previous years, camps will be organized into multiple age groups ranges from 7-14 years

old. Sign up at goodladsoccer.com. Cost: $350 per week or $250 per week for half day participation. 10% Discount for siblings. 10% discount for multiple week sign up. 904-240-2572 / 3605 Philips Hwy, Jacksonville, 32207 / www.goodladsoccer.com Jacksonville Country Day School Summer Camps June 7 - July 30, 2021 9am - 3pm. Extended Day Available. Pre K4 - 6th grade (rising grade). 8 sessions, each lasting one week. JCDS offers both Day Camp, and a selection of Specialty Camps. The campers are placed into cabins according to the grade they will be entering in the fall. In addition to day camp, JCDS offers specialty camps. Specialty camp topics include Chess, Art, Lego Robotics, Dance, Basketball, Yoga and Academic refreshers. All Campers will have daily outdoor time, access to the Smith Center Gym, and a daily swim time with their group. JCDS is committed to providing safe, fun, and developmentally appropriate programs throughout the summer. Day camp is $220 per 1 week session, and specialty camps range from $300-$400 per 1 week session. 904-641-4166 / 10063 Baymeadows Rd, Jacksonville 32256 / www.jcdssummercamp.com Jacksonville Junior Volleyball Association Volleyball Summer Camp June 7 - August 6, 2021

SUMMER CAMPS 9am - 4pm The JJVA coaching staff will focus on fundamental skills through game-based drills and daily scrimmages. The Volleyball Summer Camp is open to boys and girls grades 4 – 12. It is designed for the beginner to intermediate player and will incorporate teamwork and sportsmanship. Camp Costs: 5 days $265, 3 days $165, 2 days $110. 904-854-2323 / 8457 Western Way, Jacksonville, 32256 / www.jjva.com Jacksonville Science Festival Exploration Camp June 14 - July 23, 2021 8am – 5pm Summer EXPLORATION for ages 5 - 15. Activities include gardening, hands on STEM activities, field trips, project-based learning, literacy/math, experiments, dance, visual and theatre arts and more. Lunch and snack provided. Cost: $175 per student/ per week. 904-493-7300 / 3675 San Pablo Rd S, Jacksonville, 32224 / www.jacksonvillesciencefestival.com Jax Cooking Studio Cooking Camps June 7 – August 6, 2021 Two Camps Available Each Week: 9am - 12pm and 1:30pm – 4:30pm Ages 6-16. JAX Cooking Studio Summer Camps are sure to be a highlight of your child’s summer! They teach kids basic culinary skills while they work in small groups of two to three to cook the day’s recipes. Each week features a different camp

theme, so your child can choose the topic of most interest. At the end of each day, campers eat the recipes they prepared. On Friday of each week, the kids show off their newfound skills by cooking their favorite recipe from the week or making their own recipe or creation. Cost: $315 per child for five days of camp, 3 hours per day. 904-742-5906 / 14035 Beach Blvd, Suite 6, Jacksonville, 32250 / jaxcookingstudio.com

knowledgeable supervision. Super fun summer camp teaches kids powerful life skills like focus, discipline and respect while learning cool martial arts moves. Diverse activities with physical games, movies, and fun! Kids will accelerate their training, enhance their skills, and have LOTS OF FUN! Space is limited. Call the location near you today to enroll early and save! www.karateamerica.info

JCA Summer Camp 2021 June 14 - August 6 Ages 2-16. JCA Summer Camps provide a wide range of engaging activities to enrich your child’s summer experience. Multiple camps throughout the summer to choose from include Camp Gan Yeladim, KinderCamp, Camp Sabra, Camp Habonim, Camp Yalla, Theatre Camp, Camp Kaytana, and Adventure Days. From arts and music to unique Israeli programs, carnivals, concerts, science and sports, JCA Summer Camp offers more than just a place to spend summer days. It is a place for your child to learn and grow! 904-730-2100 / 8505 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, Florida 32217/ www.jcajax.org/camp

Kidz Camp at Sports Edge June 7 – August 6, 2021 9am - 5pm Ages 5 - 11. Kidz Summer Camps at Sports Edge are a high energy youth sports experience providing unforgettable memories and friendships to last a lifetime! The Kidz Summer Camps focus on team building, leadership skills, sports, fitness and fun. Sports Edge Camp Counselors make sure that every child has a rewarding, safe, and fun camp experience. Full Day Week $189, Half Day Week $110, and Daily $50. 904-854-2323 / 8457 Western Way, Jacksonville, 32256 / www.jjva.com

Karate America Multiple Locations in Jacksonville Summer camps in June, July, and August. Convenient times and weekly camps all summer long. Constructive fun and traditional martial arts benefits. Safe structured environment with

Museum of Science & History (MOSH) June 7 – August 6, 2021 9am – 3pm K- 8th grade. Campers will spend their time in the classroom, in the museum, and outside in some instances for their camp. They will fill their day learning about the topic at hand through hands-on demonstrations, experiments, and crafts. Children will have free time to explore the museum exhibits and will be able to attend at least one science show, animal show, or planetarium show. 904.396.MOSH (6674) / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, 32207 / www.themosh.org Orange Park Art Classes Summer Workshops June 7 – 25, 2021 Students may participate in a variety of art workshops. Each workshop will meet each day, Monday through Friday. Students may participate in as many as three different 5-Day workshops for a one-week period over the summer. The cost of each 5-Day workshop is $97 and includes all supplies. Each Workshop will require payment in full at the time of registration. Register online now to ensure your child’s place in the desired workshop. 904-729-6144 / 1406 Kingsley Ave Suite E, Orange Park, 32073 / www.orangeparkartclasses.com

CHILDRENSARTCLASSES.COM 9046127557 MARCH 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 12

8411 BAYMEADOWS WAY, SUITE 2, JACKSONVILLE, FL 32256 880 US HIGHWAY A1A NORTH SUITE SIX, PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL 32082

Saltwater Cowgirls Surf Camp June 7 - Aug 6, 2021 8:30 am – 11:30 am, Mon-Fri (check-in 8:15 am Monday) Girls Age 7 - 17 What to bring: water bottle, snacks, a towel, flip flops, and sunscreen. All students MUST know how to swim prior to coming to camp. Surfing is a very strenuous activity. All students must eat well and hydrate prior to participating. Surfboards are provided for each student but students may bring their own boards. Rash guards and board shorts are recommended. Cost: $220/week. Co-ed camps June 28, July 5, and Aug 2. 904-238-4716 / 8th Ave North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / saltwatercowgirlssurf.com

Theatre Jacksonville Summer Camp Session A: June 7 – 25, 2021 Session B: July 12 – 30, 2021 9am - 2pm Ages 7-14. Whether in-person or virtual, these camps celebrate the joyful, ridiculous and brilliant passions of your child. They provide the time for them to explore, have fun and make new friends all while discovering the world of live performance in a safe and healthy environment. Theatre Jacksonville’s experienced artists share their passion for theatre through classes in a variety of disciplines to tap into the imagination of each camper. Cost: $600 per camper, per session. 904-396-4425 X16 / 2032 San Marco Blvd, Jacksonville, 32207 / www.theatrejax.com Tommy Hulihan’s Summer Sports Camp June 7 – August 6, 2021 8am - 3pm K - 6th grade. Campers will participate in Team Sports and age appropriate activities including Basketball, Soccer, Flag Football, Kick Ball, Tag Games and more. Campers will be divided into groups based on their age. All family and friends will be allowed to be grouped together, regardless of age. Campers must bring a lunch Monday – Thursday. On Fridays, campers will have a pizza lunch. Cost: $140/week. Daily rates are $35 Monday-Thursday, and $40 for Friday (includes (Pizza Party on Fridays). Extended Care Available. 904-349-2611 / Beaches Chapel Gym – 610 Florida Blvd, Neptune Beach, FL 32266 / www. TommyHulihanBasketball.com

TNT Gymnastics Summer Camp June 7 - August 6, 2021 9am - 3pm. Extended day hours - 8am - 9am & 3pm - 6pm Ages 5 - 13 yrs old. Attending Kindergarten this fall. This is a sport development camp where every child will participate in gymnastics rotations focusing on new skill and position development. They will get to interact on all apparatus in the facility from vault, bars, beam, rings, trampoline, pit, & more! When it's time to slow down and catch a breath, they will have snacks, crafts, & lunch each day. Cost: $190/Week. Register for any camp week or multiple days. Multiple weeks discounts available. Extended day available. 904-998-8681 / 2683 St Johns Bluff Road S. Unit #107, Jacksonville, 32246 / www.tntgymfit.com Unity Christian Arts Summer Dance Camps June 1 - July 31, 2021 7am - 4pm Ages 5-16. Dance camps are Faith based but they welcome all to participate. Campers start each morning with prayer & Bible scriptures. Classes will include but not limited to: ballet, jazz, tap, choreography, drama skits, tambourine & flags among other classes when available such as streamer dancing, stretch classes creative dance and more. Showcase on Thursdays at the end of each camp. Extended hours available. Cost: $20/day. $20 registration fee. 904-466-8250 / 5730 Bowden Road, Suite 103, Jacksonville 32216 / www.unitychristianarts.com

MARCH 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 13

EDUCATION

Read Across America Booklist GET OUR NEW “UNITY DANCE” APP @ THE APP STORE OR GOOGLE PLAY

ational Reading Month is celebrated N March 1 – 31. National Reading Month is all about bringing the joys of reading to children

and motivating young readers. Titles in this list are all about a love for books and reading.j worldcat.org

I Do Not Like Books Anymore! by Daisy Hirst, Ages 3 - 7

Dog Loves Books by Louise Yates, Ages 3 - 7

Miss Brooks Loves Books (and I don’t) by Barbara Bottner and Michael Emberley, Ages 3 – 7

Wild About Books by Judy Sierra and Marc Brown, Ages 3 – 7

Please Bury Me in the Library by J. Patrick Lewis and Kyle M. Stone, Ages 4 - 7

How to Read a Book by Kwame Alexander and Melissa Sweet, Ages 4 – 8

We are wearing face masks for a COVID SAFE ENVIRONMENT!

Reading Makes You Feel Good by Todd Parr, Ages 3 – 6

5730 BOWDEN RD. #103 JACKSONVILLE, FL 32216 (904) 466-8250 WWW.UNITYCHRISTIANARTS.COM

Bunny’s Book Club by Annie Silvestro and Tatjana Mai-Wyss, Ages 3 – 7

The Best Place to Read by Debbie Bertram, Susan Bloom and Michael Garland, Ages 3 - 7

TEXT: UNITYCHRISTIANAPP TO 77977

ENROLL NOW & SAVE BIG!

Summer Camp Supervised Activities that teach

CONFIDENCE, DISIPLINE, and RESPECT! Fun & Safe! Well-Structured! Learn Karate! TOns of FUN! MARCH 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 14

www.KarateAmerica.info

Open This Little Book by Jesse Klausmeier and Suzy Lee, Ages 3 – 8

Beatrice Doesn’t Want To by Laura Numeroff and Lynn Munsinger, Ages 3 – 7

BookSpeak! Poems About Books by Laura Perdie Salas and Josée Bisaillon, Ages 4 - 7

Look! A Book! by Bob Staake Ages 4 – 8

I Am a Story by Dan Yaccarino Ages 4 - 8

Red Knit Cap Girl and the Reading Tree by Naoko Stoop, Ages 4 - 8

Miss Malarky Leaves No Reader Behind by Judy Finchler and Kevin O’Malley, Ages 4 – 8

The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore by William Joyce, Ages 4 – 8

Good Books, Good Times! by Lee Bennett Hopkins and Harvey Stevenson, Ages 4 – 8

The Book Hog by Greg Pizzoli Ages 4 – 8

The Plot Chickens by Mary Jane Auch and Herm Auch, Ages 4 – 8

The Incredible Book Eating Boy by Oliver Jeffers, Ages 4 - 8

Edward and the Pirates by David McPhall Ages 4 – 8

Henry and the Buccaneer Bunnies by Carolyn Crimi and John Manders, Ages 4 – 8

But excuse Me THAT is my book by Lauren Child Ages 4 – 8

Read! Read! Read! by Amy Ludwig VanDerwater and Ryan O'Rourke, Ages 5 – 9

The House of Wisdom by Florence Parry Heide, J. Heide Gilliland and Mary GrandPré, Ages 7 – 9

Bookjoy, Wordjoy by Pat Mora and Raul Colón Ages 5 – 9

MARCH 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 15

EDUCATION Do seniors need these exams to graduate?

Biblioburro: A True Story from Columbia by Jeanette Winter, Ages 6 – 9

Thomas Jefferson Builds a Library by Barb Rosenstock and John O’Brien, Ages 7 - 10

State Assessments in 2021 — What You Need to Know

I am the Book by Lee Bennett Hopkins and Yayo, Ages 4 – 8

The Florida statewide assessments season is approaching, and Duval County Public Schools seeks to work with its students and families to be ready. While the Florida Department of Education has allowed online learning for students, the state requires testing to occur in school facilities. This includes the Florida Standards Assessments, Next Generation Sunshine State Standards Assessments, and end-of-course assessments.

Kelsey Green, Reading Queen by Claudia Mills and Rob Shepperson, Ages 7 - 10

The Hard-Times Jar by Ethel Footman Smothers and John Holyfield, Ages 5 – 8

Things to Do Education Events

Chicken Dance Thru May 2021 FSCJ Artist Series - School Performances presents a virtual school time show. Chicken Dance is a full-length, 52-minute video and bonus videos for all ages. Performed by ArtsPower. Chicken Dance's virtual program includes a fulllength performance of Chicken Dance on video, grade-specific Study Buddy educational guide that provides a full complement of literacy-building and visual arts activities for your students, song and dance instructional videos, interviews with the author of the Chicken Dance book and the musical’s set designer, and a Student Gallery page where your students can post their artwork and videos. Cost is $300 per School per Grade Level, $15 per Homeschool Group Household, or $6 per Ticket. FSCJ / 904-632-5050 / groupsales@fscjartistseries.org / www.fscjartistseries.org Home School Art Program at Creative Me Art Studio Tuesdays and Wednesdays, March 2-3, 9-10, 16-17, 23-24, 30-31, 9:30am to 2:30pm The H.S.P. (Home School Program) classes start off with a slide show presentation all about a specific artist so the children can gain some background knowledge on the inspiration behind

the art project. Then students will begin an art project that involves many different forms of media, such as watercolor paint, oil pastels, chalk, crayons, markers, colored pencils, sculpture clay, etc. Then the teacher will reiterate what was learned and how it relates to the finished piece of artwork. Students will take their project home on the same day it is made. Cost is $11 per child. Grade levels K-1st from 9:30am to 10:30am; Grade levels 2nd-5th from 11am to 12noon; Grade levels 6th-12th from 1:30pm to 2:30pm Creative Me Art Studio / 904-770-2222 / 14797 Philips Highway Suite 112, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / www.creativemeartstudio.com Connecting and Supporting Elementary Students with Blended Learning March 4, 7pm to 8pm Gain a better understanding of the various blended learning platforms used by elementary students. This course will share information on i-Ready, Achieve3000, and Writing City. This workshop is free and held virtually. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a free family resource that promotes parental involvement, enhances student achievement, and supports a caregiver's need for personal and individual growth. Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org / dcps. duvalschools.org

MARCH 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 16

Seniors who need to meet testing requirements for graduation must come to the campus for the SAT, ACT, PSAT Math, PERT, Algebra 1, or the Geometry end-ofcourse assessment to meet these requirements.

The Bee Tree by Patricia Polacco Ages 4 – 8

Florida Standards Assessment: Reading & Writing Grades 3-5 March 16, 7pm to 8pm In this course, families will review the assessment format, types of questions, and view online resources available to help support their child(ren) at home. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a family resource designed for parents, caregivers, and community members. All Parent Academy courses are free of charge. This course is held online. Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org / dcps. duvalschools.org Florida Standards Assessment (FSA): Reading & Writing Grades 6-10 March 18, 6pm to 7pm This course will provide families with valuable information and creative strategies that will assist middle and/or high school students as they prepare for the FSA. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a free family resource that promotes parental involvement, enhances student achievement, and supports a caregiver's need for personal and individual growth. This course is held online. Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org / dcps. duvalschools.org Math is Full of Problems but the FSA Isn't One! Grades 3-5 March 23, 6:30pm to 7:30pm Each of these courses will review grade-specific

information for the Florida Standards Assessment (FSA). Families can select the grade-level course to view test question examples, test taking tips, and additional resources to help support student(s) as they prepare for the test. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a free family resource that promotes parental involvement, enhances student achievement, and supports a caregiver's need for personal and individual growth. This course is held online. Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org / dcps. duvalschools.org Math is Full of Problems but the FSA Isn't One! Grades 6-8 March 25, 6:30pm Each of these courses will review grade-specific information about the Florida Standards Assessment (FSA). Families can select the grade-level course to view test question examples, test taking tips, and additional resources to help support students(s) as they prepare for the test. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a free family resource that promotes parental involvement, enhances student achievement, and supports a caregiver's need for personal and individual growth. This course is held online. Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / ParentAcademy@duvalschools.org / dcps. duvalschools.org

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

letter to families with this information and will be providing an option for families to have further questions answered. Will COVID-19 prevention protocols be in place? Yes. Each school is prepared to ensure that all COVID-19 safety precautions are used during the assessment time. These precautions include temperatures taken at the front door, masks required for all students and staff, a well-ventilated room away from other students who normally attend school in person, and social distancing adhered to within the testing classroom. Are these tests required?

To be ready for the upcoming state exams, the district wants to test its own procedures. There will be one more round of progress-monitoring exams before the higher-stakes state tests, and the district wants to use these exams as a practice run for the more important state tests later this year. Parents are asked to bring their home-based learners to the campus between Feb. 22 and March 5 for this last round of progress-monitoring exams.

Yes. It is a requirement under Florida law for public schools to administer these state assessments.

Following are questions and answers about in-person testing during this pandemic year.

This year’s seventh graders will need their FSA scores from this year to apply for high school accelerated programs next year when they are eighth-grade students. Fifthgrade students applying for Kirby-Smith Middle School’s accelerated program also need to demonstrate a score of 4 or higher on their FSAs.

What are progress-monitoring tests? The district uses progress-monitoring assessments to see how students are progressing along Florida’s standards. Standards are expectations for student learning, and the assessments enable teachers to adapt their instruction to fill any gaps the tests reveal. Why does the district want students to come to school for the last round of progress monitoring? Schools are developing procedures and protocols for the required state exams. Having students come to campus for the last round of progress monitoring will help the district anticipate any challenges that need to be solved prior to the state tests. Students will also become familiar with the testing environment and school protocols, which will help them to be ready for the official state tests. Schools are sending a

What are the consequences of opting out of the state exams? Third-grade students must demonstrate reading proficiency to be promoted to fourth grade. The state test is the most common way to do that.

Middle school students’ performance on the FSA will determine scheduling options, including preliminary acceleration courses during their eighth and ninth grade year — such as Algebra 1 and honors courses — which impact high school grade point averages. For middle and high school students, Algebra 1, geometry, biology, United States history, and civics end-of-course exams are all state assessments that count as 30 percent of each student’s final course grade. Florida Standards Assessments at all grade levels are used to determine reading progress and assist in identifying courses for the student the following school year.

Yes! To receive a standard high school diploma, prospective graduates must demonstrate proficiency in reading and algebra. The 10th grade reading FSA is one option to meet the reading assessment requirement. Algebra 1 and geometry endof-course exams are options to meet the math assessment requirement. Students also can meet both reading and math assessment requirements through other exams, including the SAT, ACT, PSAT Math, and PERT. All of these are offered in person, and 10th-, 11th-, and 12th-grade students have multiple opportunities to obtain the scores they need. Additionally, students must pass the endof-course exams in geometry, biology, and U.S. history to be eligible for the scholar diploma designation on their high school diploma, an honor that signifies the student has completed coursework beyond what is required for graduation. Will the state waive these requirements because of COVID-19? At this time, the state has informed the district that there will be no waivers of the

state standards assessments or the high school end-of-course exams. The state is not expected to waive testing requirements for this year’s potential graduates. Can any of these tests be taken at home? No. The state has informed Duval and other county school districts that they are not considering any provisions for home testing. If students opt out of the tests, are there repercussions for the school or the teachers? Yes. A school that does not meet the 95 percent participation threshold receives an “Incomplete” school grade. This could prevent the school and the teachers from receiving resources under Florida’s school recognition programs. What should parents and guardians do? Contact your school for more information about assessment dates, times, and procedures for your student. You can also ask any questions about the COVID-19 protocols the school will have in place.

District Launches School Name Change Tracker Nine schools are currently going through the school name change process, and to help the community keep track, the district launched a new webpage. The School Name Change Tracker, located at www.duvalschools.org/tracker, will help community and school stakeholders monitor their school’s progress and know how they can provide input. Though these schools are going through the school name change process, this does not mean their names will be changed. Rather, the process is meant to allow the schools’ stakeholders to give their input and provide a recommendation to the superintendent. One of those recommendations could be to keep the school’s original name. By visiting the webpage, stakeholders can see a clear explanation of all the nine steps involved in the name change process. For example, as of this date, all the schools are at Step 3. In this step, the

schools schedule community meetings to provide their stakeholders (students, parents, staff, alumni, and community members in the attendance zone) an opportunity to give recommendations for school names. Most of these community meetings in Step 3 will begin in February. The last step in the process – a School Board vote on recommendation from superintendent – is expected to take place in May for the elementary and middle schools, and June for the high schools. All dates will be posted on the Tracker. Visit www.duvalschools.org/tracker for additional information. The nine schools are: Andrew Jackson High, J.E.B. Stuart Middle, Jean Ribault High, Jean Ribault Middle, Jefferson Davis Middle, Joseph Finegan Elementary, Kirby-Smith Middle, Robert E. Lee High, and Stonewall Jackson Elementary.

MARCH 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 17

Date & Time

School

Location

Thursday, May 20, 11am

Mt. Herman Exceptional Student Center

Friday, May 21, 5pm

Palm Avenue Exceptional Student Center

Paxon School for Advanced Studies

Friday, May 21, 6pm

Alden Road Exceptional Student Center

Sandalwood High School

Monday, May 24, 6pm

Baldwin Middle Senior High

Monday, May 24, 6pm

Paxon School for Advanced Studies

Monday, May 24, 6pm

Stanton College Prep

Lawson points first to the need for these strategies. During the 2019-20 school year, 64% of all calls to the crisis hotline for behavioral crises occurred in kindergarten through third grades with 23% from Kindergarten alone. This is a noticeable trend across years.

Tuesday, May 25, 6pm

Atlantic Coast High

Tuesday, May 25, 6pm

Lee High

Tuesday, May 25, 6pm

Ribault High

However, she says only 15% of the calls made to the crisis hotline this school year were due to behavior compared to 32% during the same time frame last year.

Thursday, May 27, 7pm

Andrew Jackson High

Times-Union Moran Theatre

Friday, May 28, 7pm

A. Philip Randolph Academies of Technology

Times-Union Moran Theatre

Tuesday, June 1, 7pm

Douglas Anderson School of the Arts

Times-Union Moran Theatre

Wednesday, June 2, 7pm

Darnell Cookman School of the Medical Arts

Times-Union Moran Theatre

Duval Schools Invest Early in Social-Emotional Learning The need for social and emotional learning in schools, especially elementary, is clear and Team Duval is addressing that need. Social-emotional learning, the process through which children learn to manage emotions, build positive relationships, and effectively work together with their peers, is weaved into curriculum and classroom routines by elementary instructors across the district. “We have seen amazing student outcomes that correlate to increased attention to the whole child and their emotional and mental well-being,” said Marianne Simon, the district’s regional superintendent over elementary schools. “This includes a reduction of misbehavior referrals and suspensions, which means children are spending more time in the classroom and learning environment.” Fifteen-year veteran teacher, Leah Baker agrees. The Abess Park educator who teaches voluntary pre-kindergarten says she’s starting the social-emotional learning process early so her students can function properly and independently in today’s world. “I encourage independence in my classroom by setting daily rituals and routines and allowing my students the opportunity to solve problems on their own first, before I intervene,” said Baker. Other strategies that Baker integrates into the classroom include creating calm down areas, giving students daily responsibilities, and discussing emotional and personal wellness

through group read-aloud sessions. Baker says she has seen success in her classroom. Success that Duval County Public Schools Crisis Hotline Advisor Heather Lawson says is reflected districtwide.

She says the incorporation of social-emotional learning in the classroom can create endless benefits for students of all ages: •

Improves school and classroom climate.

•

Reduces behavior problems.

Thursday, June 3, 6pm

Ed White High

•

Encourages empathy, teamwork, and collaboration.

Thursday, June 3, 7pm

Frank H. Peterson

Times-Union Moran Theatre

•

Improves relationship and coping skills.

Thursday, June 3, 6pm

Mandarin High

Thursday, June 3, 6pm

Sandalwood High

Friday, June 4, 6pm

Englewood High

Friday, June 4, 6pm

First Coast High

Friday, June 4, 6pm

Raines High

Friday, June 4, 6pm

Terry Parker High

Monday, June 7, 9am

Bridge to Success Academy

Westside High

Monday, June 7, 9am

Duval Virtual Instruction Academy

Wolfson High

Monday, June 7, 6pm

Fletcher High

Monday, June 7, 9am

Marine Science Center

Fletcher High

Monday, June 7, 6pm

Westside High

Monday, June 7, 6pm

Wolfson High

Baker, who has watched behavior issues decline in her classroom, believes this can benefit children and educators. “My word of advice to fellow educators is simple – get to know your students on a personal and emotional level first,” said Baker. “This will make it much easier to understand them on an academic level.”

2021 Commencement Schedule Available Dates, times, and locations for spring 2021 graduation ceremonies have been finalized.

Similar to last year, a majority of the high schools will hold their ceremonies on their onsite football stadium. Pre-COVID, most ceremonies were held in arenas around Jacksonville. However, to comply with recommended social distancing guidelines and manage the cost of cleaning and sanitation, the decision

to move ceremonies to the onsite football fields was made. The exceptions are Andrew Jackson, A. Philip Randolph, Douglas Anderson, Darnell Cookman, and Frank H. Peterson. Ceremonies for these schools will be held at the Times-Union Moran Theatre because they do not have an appropriate onsite location to hold the event. Additional graduation ceremony information will be available later this spring.

MARCH 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 18

efforts on the recruitment, hiring and retention of a diversified and highly qualified instructional staff whose mission is to provide students with learning opportunities that are rigorous, relevant and transcend beyond the boundaries of the classroom.

Interested? Go to oneclay.net to find open positions and online applications, job descriptions, completely salary schedules, and other resources you may need.

Clay County School News

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Equal Opportunity Employer: The School Congrat District of Clay County is an Equal OpportuHigh Pri Now Instructional Clay Hiring Education Human Resources: Theand Human Resources nity Employer. They do not discriminate on Clay County Climbs to Sixth Principa Department strives to provide the necessary the basis of race, religion, color, sex, mariSupport Positions, Apply Now High As Foundation Whenin you arethe thinking about giving, consider the gift of time, talent and your experience! State for Highest human resources and organizational culture tal status, age, national origin or disability. County' The Clay you Education Foundation is a nonprofit Whether are starting your career or you Non Instructional Opportunities: The depart- Take Stock in Children, a state-wide mentoring program for low-income public school to support the District in its vision to prepare Employment of personnel in Clay County is organization that works directly with Graduation Rate Visit the are an experienced professional, the eduSchool ment of Non-instructional Personnel Services students, is in need of adult mentors in Clay County. cators and administration to improve public District of Clay County can offer a wide range serves the School District of Clay County by life-long learners for success in a global and in compliance with Federal and State Laws education in Clay County. 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There are innumerable benefits that that six of the nine targeted subgroups of relevant and transcend beyond the boundaries Foundation funds the building of isfaction of influencing young minds. A school accompany the attainment of a high school Equal Opportunity Employer: The School learners have reached a record high, and of the classroom. Investing in Educators classroom libraries for pre-K through Congratulations to Green Cove Springs Junior diploma, and the fact that our community’s District of Clay County is an Equal Opportuall subgroups performed higher than the 3rdcareer grade. They data-drivPrincipal JenContact Halter, Clay County's 2021 administration is also onefundsuch path.High Like Information students continue to graduate in record Human Resources: The Human nity Employer. They do not discriminate on of • Celebrating, rewarding, and Resources investing in state average. It is important to note that en strategies to improve literacy Principal of the Year, and to Orange Park Junior numbers can only speak to a better and teachers, school administrators are essential teachersstrives acrosstothe district. Department provide the necessary the basis ofstudents race, religion, color, sex, marithe state average in graduation in every grade. High while Assistant Principal Janice Tucker, Clayhas ° resources Clay Teachers Lead - Teacher of the brighter future for Clay County,” said Superhuman and organizational culture tal status, age, national origin or disability. consistently trended upward in recent years, Human Resources County's 2021 Assistant Principal of the Year. Department to the success their schools and districts, recipients meet withtoschool Investing inof intendent David Broskie. to supportYear the District in its vision prepare Employment ofInnovation personnel in Clay County is Clay County District Schools has continued Visit the School District Clay County Street Florida district leaders to find for they 900 Walnut life-long learners for success in solutions a global and in compliance with Federal and State Laws and never lose sight of the goal: providing to remain above the state average and is • Equipping classrooms with tools nec- YouTube chantheworkplace. big issues in education today. competitive nondiscrimination and the preference. nel to watch Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 essary to spark creativity and learning. ° Tools 4 Clay Schools - This program the bestregarding education to their students. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged the moments ° Grants for Great Ideas This provides free school supplies to all Administrative Opportunities: Great edu904-336-6706 to apply. Any personiswho he County or she March Calendar program openbelieves to all Clay Jen and Janice Phone: Clay County public school teachers cational leaders vital to ourand future, and in may need reasonable during found out about public schoolaccommodations teachers and adminfor theirare classrooms students Fax: 904-336-6556 although seeing students are succeed can betoits the application, testing or interview process istrators. Educators write grant need. Teachers encouraged the announceMarch 4 School Board Meeting Connect with us! own reward, many people are at looking ways should notify the appropriate or applications and thedepartment Clay Education select needed items eventsforthat ment!

Take Stock in Children

Fo Ac

to grow professionally without losing the sat6pm – 9pm Teacher Training Center, Fleming Island High School Foundation funds the most creative take place twice a year. school office in advance. isfaction influencing school and promising initiatives. ° ofApple Awardsyoung - This minds. annual Aevent ° Information Full STEAM Ahead - Through this celebrates administration careerexceptional is one sucheducators path. Like Contact FortifyF ongoing program, the Clay Education and staff who have been March 12 End Third Grading Period teachers, school administrators arenominated essential FoundationDepartment invests in hands-on and by their school. Human Resources to the success of their schools and districts, that allo learning opportu° never Employee theofYear Street and they lose of sight theBreakfast goal: providing 900 Walnutmulti-disciplinary in science, technology, com- This annual event celebrates Green Covenities Springs, FL 32043 to appro the best education to their students. puter science, robotics, data science, outstanding support personnel from March 15 – 19 Spring Break, Student/Teacher Holiday Phone: 904-336-6706 math, engineering, and the arts. the district. These often overlooked school o Fax: 904-336-6556 employees Connect with—us!including secretaries, With your support, you can change lives. Evjanitors, and cafeteria workers — ery dollar you give is matched by the state of deserve recognition for their tireless March 22 Planning Day – Student Holiday Florida, so your generosity is magnified. When FortifyFL is a suspicious activity reporting tool also have access to your tips to make sure By acce support of students. December 4 you – Interim Reports you give, help ensure that every student in that allows you to instantly relay information ° Northeast Florida Teacher of the proper steps are taken. descrip Clay County has a dynamic, high-quality public to appropriate law enforcement agencies and Year Summit - This annual event December 10, 6pm – 9pm – Regular School Board Meeting, Teacher Training Center, education. brings together every Teacher of the March 26 Report school officials. FortifyFL wasCards created and funded by the 2018and opt Year nominee in Clay, Duval, and St. FlemingLearn Island High School, Florida Legislature as part of the Marjory tion. more about the Clay EducationVillage Founda- Square Parkway Johns counties for a day of learning, By accessing FortifyFL, students can provide a Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety tion at clayeducationfoundation.com. development, and growth. December 23 – January 3 – Christmas/New Year’s Break, Student/Teacher Holiday December 4 – Interim Reports description of the threat, share pics and videos Act. The application was named by students December 10, 6pm – 9pm – Regular School Board Meeting, Teacher Training Center, from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.The tip and optionally submit their contact informaFleming Island Highwith School, tion. The Office of Attorney General, Department Connect us! Village Square Parkway www.oneclay.net December 23 – January 3 – Christmas/New Year’s Break, Student/Teacher Holiday of Education and Florida Department of Law officials Enforcement its development and The tip report goes to yourCove local school OP/Middleburg (904) 272-8100 • Green Springs (904) coordinated 284-6500 departm www.oneclay.net roll-out. officials when submitted, your local police Keystone Heights (888) 663-2529 • TDD (904) 284-6584 OP/Middleburg (904) 272-8100 • Green Cove Springs (904) 284-6500 department or sheriff office receive copies of your tip Keystone Heights (888) 663-2529 • TDD (904) 284-6584 your tips automatically, and state-level officials Download on the App Store or Google Play.

December

Fortify Florida: Suspicious Activity Reporting App Calendar

December Calendar

MARCH 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 19

St. Johns County

School District News

Jim Registration Harbin Student Early Begins on Media March 1st

CHARACTER COUNTS! TRUSTWORTHINESS

er Sworn In

CARING

FAIRNESS

CITIZENSHIP

All Pillars

CARING

FAIRNESS

CHARACTER COUNTS ! Pillar: RESPONSIBILITY

Attendance Zoning Maps and Locator Available Online

December March Character Counts Pillar: Character Counts Trustworthiness RESPECT

t Media

New School Board Member Sworn In

RESPONSIBILITY

RESPECT

School District News

ST. J

TRUSTWORTHINESS

unty

St. Johns County March 2021 School Calendar

CITIZENSHIP

Fairness • Play by the rules • Take turns and share • Be open-minded; listen to others Congratulations to Switzerland Point Middle students' academic career. Students compete • Don’t take advantage of others School student Sophia Goral for her first place at three different levels: elementary, middle, • Don’t blame others carelessly state-wide win in the annual Jim Harbin Stuand high. • Treat all people fairly dent Media Festival! Responsibility The Jim Harbin Student Media Festival has • Do what you are supposed to do The Jim Harbin Student Media Festival is a been around for 45+ years! It was Jim • Plan ahead student-driven program where students create Harbin's vision and is FAME's vision to teach, • Persevere: keep onWednesday trying! media presentations from idea, to storyboard, encourage and recognize Florida's student Interims Issued • Always do your best to production, to presentation. Students media producers. Student filmmakers learn March 3, 2021 • Use self-control work creatively to design and produce a many valuable lessons from equipment usage • Be self-disciplined media forum for their message and compete & care to copyright laws to protect artists like OHNS OUNTY CHOOL ISTRICT Wednesday-Friday state-wide with students from each county in themselves. They celebrate the learning and • Think before you act — consider the consequences Spring Break Florida. The culminating even is a red-carpet creativity of Florida's young artists. • Be accountable for your words, actions, and attitudes March 17-19, 2021 affair at the Florida Association for Media in • Set a good example for others Education’s (FAME) Annual Conference. The Watch Sophia’s video on the St. Johns County Citizenship experience is one of the most rewarding of the School District website! • Do your share to make your school and community better The St. Johns County School District (SJCSD) Other requirements for registration: • Cooperate will begin early registration for the 2021-22 • Get involved in community affairs • Birth certificate/Guardianship Documents school year March 1. This registration is only • Stay informed; vote • Documentation of a health examination for children new towas the sworn school indistrict, includAnthony Coleman as a newly teaching history within at BKAone (Brother Keeper • Be a good neighbor performed year of enrollment ing those entering kindergarten. elected member of the St. Johns County Fairness Academy School)required which was founded • Obey laws and rules • ProofCharter of completed immunizaSchoolregistration Board during Board’s by histions brother, Pastor Coleman. Early canthe be School completed online on Form DH680 • Respect authority Reorganization onassigned Novemberschool 17th. • Play byinstrumental rules Tony was inper starting the SJ- and or by visiting theMeeting student’s • Proof ofthe residence the Residency • Protect the environment ColemanTo replaces Member Tommy SO’s first local Dolphins football and cheer website. find theBoard assigned school, enterAllen Guardianship Policyshare • Take turns and • Volunteer serving District 2. programs which have served hundreds of your street address on the Attendance Zone Respect For additional onlisten registration, Anthony “Tony” Coleman was born in Palatka,• Be students in theinformation Hastings, Flagler Estates, Locator. open-minded; to Armothers• Treat others with respect; follow the Golden Rule contactand theWest Student Services Department at Florida and grew up in Hastings. While living strong St Augustine areas. mic career. Students compete take To be eligible for public kindergarten in the • Don’t 547-7598 or theadvantage assigned school.of others • Be tolerant and accepting of differences there, Tony attended Hastings Elementary Throughout Tony’s 30 years of public service, • Use good manners, not bad language children be 5Hastings years old on school, or School. Later, hemust entered High levels:SJCSD, elementary, middle, he has received of awards. Among • Don’t blamea number others carelessly • Be considerate of the feelings of others before September 1 and must reside in St. where he played football and competed in these recognitions are the highest award given • Don’t threaten, hit, or hurt anyone Johns track &County. field. Tony excelled in sports and • Treat allJohns people by the St. County, fairly the Guy White Award, became a high school star athlete. In fact, he • Deal peacefully with anger, insults, and disagreements in addition to the Learning Legacy Award, went on to represent St. Johns County as its Responsibility Caring which is the highest award given by the Suin thehas state of Florida for tudentfirst-ever Mediachampion Festival kind perintendent of Schools. awards include what you areOther supposed to do •• Be the track & field 100-yard dash. After grad- • Do Be compassionate and show you care Officer of the Year, Department of Juvenile 45+ years! was uating inIt 1983, TonyJim earned a scholarship • Express gratitude Justiceahead (DJJ) and the Meritorious Service to • Plan for track &vision field at Edward Waters College in nd is FAME's to Zone teach, list a few. • Forgive others 2020-2021 Locator page are School Board approved. Jacksonville,Attendance Florida. Sometime later, Tony • Persevere: Follow us on Twitter keep on trying! • Help people in need This locator based on Attendance Zones http://www.co.st-johns.fl.us/GIS/SchoolMaps. Tony serves in a number of civic duties. He is ecognize Florida's student earned stateiscertification in Law Enforcement @StJohnsCountySD • Be charitable and altruistic for 2020-2021 year. This feature • Always aspx currently ando adviser to Hastings andthe Correction fromschool First Coast Technical your best Youth Acad- Trustworthiness . Student filmmakers learn allows you to enter anddegree select its College. Anthony hasananaddress associate from emy, and previously was the past co-chair of NEW! 2021-2022 Attendance Zone Locator: from the list that appears. After select-• Use the 7thself-control Circuit Department of Juvenile Justice • Be honest Vincennes University. ssons match from equipment usage This locator is based onpast Attendance Zones ing, the school zones will be determined and (DJJ). He served as the Board President • Don’t deceive, cheat, or steal In 1986, Anthony started his career in law • Be self-disciplined for the the 2021-2022 This ht lawsthe to protect artists like results will appear. Hope Pavilionschool Groupyear. Home in feature Hastings. for • Be reliable – do what you say you’ll do enforcement with the Putnam County Sheriff’s He allows to enter an Lord address and City select http://www.gis.bocc.co.st-johns.fl.us/ is a you Minister at the Temple of its •the Haveconsequences the courage to do the right thing y celebrate the learning and • Think before you act — consider Office before joining the St. Johns County match from the listand that appears.serves After selectschoolaz2/ Refuge Ministries currently as a • Build a good reputation on Facebook Sheriff’s Office in April of 1988, as a patrol ing, accountable the school zones willfor be determined and member of the Chaplain Corps for the words, SJSO. da's young artists. honest • Have the courage Connect to@St doJohns the • Be your actions, attitudes County • Be• loyalBe –and stand by your family, friends, and country officer. During his time with SJSO, 2020-2021 Attendance Zone MapAnthony the results will appear. • Don’t deceive, cheat, or steal right thing Tony is married to Cherl, and they are proud School District worked in both Patrol and Community-OrientDownload attendance zone maps created for• Set http://www.gis.bocc.co.st-johns.fl.us/School_ a six good example for others of their children, who have graduated from • Be reliable — do what you say • Build a good reputation ed Policing (COP) before moving overbytothe the St. Johns County School District zone_proposed/ ideo onthe the St. Johns County Putnam and St Johns County Districts. Tony Youth Resource Deputy (YRD) section. Anthony you’ll do • Be loyal — stand by your Citizenship St. Johns County GIS Department. This site and have 14 grandchildren. Tony worked as YRD for the Gaines VisitCherl stjohns.k12.fl.us/zoning to use theenjoys Attenthea elementary, middle Alternative and high ebsite!includes family, friends, and country mentoring kids, coaching girls Rec547-7680 basketball, your share make your school and community better Center,attendance Murray Middle, dance Zoning tools andtocall (904) school zonePedro mapsMenendez for the current• Do football. High School as attendance well as several the district withhigh any school questions. school year. All zoneofmaps on this and December 21, 2020 – January 1, 2021..............Winter Break – Student/Teacher Holiday elementary schools. He also spent one-year • Cooperate

Festival Winner

Things to Do

TEENS

ST.Trustworthiness JOHNS COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT St. Johns County December 2020 School Calendar

December

• Get involved in community affairs Visit St. Johns County Schools online at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/schools/ for more information. • Stay MARCH 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 20 informed; vote at BKA (Brother Keeper • Be a good neighbor r School) which was founded • Obey laws and rules

How to Help Kids Learn to Fail arents tend to see their mission as helping study differently or talk to the teacher about any problems she’s having before a test? P their kids succeed. But there’s a growing realization among teachers and other professionals who work with children that kids increasingly need help learning how to fail. Not learning to tolerate failure leaves kids vulnerable to anxiety. And perhaps even more important, it can make kids give up trying—or trying new things. That’s why Michael Jordan, one of the world’s greatest athletes, has spent years preaching the importance of losing. Jordan has spoken extensively about how perseverance and resilience in the face of challenges on and off the court are what have made him a winner. Distress or frustration tolerance is an important life skill to master. When it comes to school, “the ability to tolerate imperfection— that something is not going exactly your way—is oftentimes more important to learn than whatever the content subject is,” says Dr. Amanda Mintzer, a clinical psychologist at the Child Mind Institute. “Building that skill set is necessary for kids to be able to become more independent and succeed in future endeavors, whether it’s personal goals, academic goals, or just learning how to effectively deal with other people.” So how do parents teach kids to fail? Dr. Mintzer offers a multistep process: First, show empathy Empathize with your child; see that she’s in distress. “Don’t just say, ‘It’s okay, you’ll do better next time,'” Dr. Mintzer says. “It’s invalidating to brush off a child’s feelings of frustration and disappointment.” Instead, parents need to change their language: “I see you’re really disappointed, I know you really wanted to do better.”

“It’s a balance of acceptance and change,” Dr. Mintzer says. “It’s about accepting that the situation is what it is and building frustration tolerance while also asking, ‘Can we change something in the future. Can we learn from this?'” The minefield of social media At the same time, kids need to know that sometimes when we fail or face disappointment, there’s not a lot we can do about it in that moment; we have to accept it as a part of life and move on. Dr. Mintzer notes as an example the minefield that is social media. Say a girl’s friends tell her they can’t hang out with her and then she sees them together on Instagram or Facebook. There are lots of emotions: frustration, disappointment, sadness, anger. How does she deal with that? Calling friends and screaming at them only makes things worse. She could ignore it and pretend she never saw, but that’s not going to make her feel better or change what happens in the future.

Teen Take & Make Kit Fridays, March 5, 12, 19, 26, 9am to 5pm Teen's craft kits are available to make in the library or take home. New crafts/kits will be available every Friday. Stop by and get one while supplies last. For ages 13-17. Free. Fleming Island Branch Library / 904-278-3720 / 1895 Town Center Blvd, Fleming Island, FL 32003 / www.claycountygov.com ACT On-Campus Testing March 6, 13, 20, 8am and 2pm ACT On-Campus Testing at the University of North Florida is intended for students who have applied for admission and have been assigned a UNF ID number. Students who do not have an application on file at UNF will not be scheduled to test. Scores from the ACT On-Campus are reported to the University of North Florida only. ACT On-Campus score reports cannot be issued to any other institution or agency, including Bright Futures. University of North Florida / 904-620-1000 / 1 UNF Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / www.unf.edu Understanding Athletic Recruiting March 9, 4pm The college admissions process can already be confusing and frustrating for parents and students. Now add in athletic recruiting—a

Teen and Tween Sewing and Crafting March 24, 4:30pm to 5pm Teens and Tweens, grades 6-12, join Ms. Carla to create a spring rabbit painting. Pick up a kit at your local library branch while supplies last. Kits are limited. Materials needed by all crafters include spring colored acrylic paint, int sponge or brush, 10"x10" or 8"x10" white stretched canvas, glue, scissors, and a skein of yarn to make a 2 inch pom-pom. Materials needed (if you do not have a kit from the library) include small piece of string, scraps of spring themed or spring colored paper, and an adhesive backed cut out of a rabbit made from contact paper or Cricut removable vinyl. This is an online, virtual event. Free. St. Johns County Public Library / 904-827-6940 / libm@sjcfl.us / sjcpls.org

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

So how can a parent help her accept what happened? The girl might be able to get more information to make herself feel better. Perhaps she can talk to these kids in a calm way, telling them that she saw the photos and her feelings were hurt. Maybe she’ll discover a reason behind it. But she may not get an answer she likes, or get one at all. That leads to another life lesson: Sometimes we get left out, sometimes we aren’t liked, and we have to learn to cope with that truth without making the situation worse. Dr. Mintzer notes, “A lot of these skills are needed for interpersonal relationships.”

Make yourself a model

Step back and allow kids to fail

You can explain that failure is a part of life and happens to everyone, even you. You could share examples of “failures” you’ve had. “Parents can model how to handle their own disappointment,” such as losing out on a promotion at work. Kids aren’t necessarily exposed to the reality that life includes mistakes, missteps, and even failures. As much as everyone likes things to go according to plan, it’s important to teach our children that it is also okay when they don’t.

It can be very tough to watch your child fall down but she can only learn how to handle disappointment through trial and error. As books like The Blessings of a Skinned Knee and Gift of Failure: How the Best Parents Learn to Let Go So Their Children Can Succeed emphasize, parents must stop hovering. Otherwise, they rob children of the very experiences that require problem-solving and set them on the path to resilience and the confidence to take on new challenges.

Make it a teachable moment

Learning to fail can be painful. But kids will only succeed if they can acquire the skill to handle whatever life throws their way. j

A child’s failure is a chance for parents to teach acceptance and problem-solving skills. You and your child can try to come up with what she could do the next time for a better chance at success. For instance, could she

Teen Events

tricky intersection of parents’ hopes, student-athletes’ expectations (and their hopes), coach idiosyncrasies, and conflicting league policies. It doesn’t have to be frustrating. In this free webinar, college counselors and former Division I athletes give you visibility and transparency into the college admissions and athletic recruiting process for all NCAA divisions. You’ll also learn more about these latest trends: Specialization, The meteoric rise of club sports, and Recruiting outside the high school counseling environment. This webinar is free and held online. Register in advance to get the link. Revolution Prep / 877-738-7737 / answers@ revolutionprep.com / www.revolutionprep.com

Private Viewing Party $10/Person Minimum of 15 people

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MARCH 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 21

CMYK / .ai

PETS

THINGS TO DO

Fascinating Facts About Cats 1. There are over 500 million domestic cats in the world. 2. A group of cats is called a clowder, a male cat is called a tom, a female cat is called a molly or queen while young cats are called kittens. 3. In terms of development, the first year of a cat’s life is equal to the first 15 years of a human life. After its second year, a cat is 25 in human years. And after that, each year of a cat’s life is equal to about 7 human years. 4. On average cats live for around 12 to 15 years. 5. Domestic cats love to play, this is especially true with kittens who love to chase toys and play fight. Play fighting among kittens may be a way for them to practice and learn skills for hunting and fighting. 6. Cats can rotate their ears 180 degrees. 7. Cats have powerful night vision, allowing them to see at light levels six times lower than what a human needs in order to see. 8. The hearing of the average cat is at least five times keener than that of a human adult. 9. Domestic cats usually weigh around 4 kilograms (8 lb 13 oz) to 5 kilograms (11 lb 0 oz). 10. The heaviest domestic cat on record is 21.297 kilograms (46 lb 15.2 oz). 11. Domestic cats spend about 70 percent of the day sleeping (to conserve energy). And 15 percent of the day grooming. 12. A cat cannot see directly under its nose. 13. Most cats have no eyelashes.

14. Cats have five toes on each front paw, but only four on the back ones. It’s not uncommon, though, for cats to have extra toes. The cat with the most toes known had 32—eight on each paw! 15. Cats have powerful night vision, allowing them to see at light levels six times lower than what a human needs in order to see. 16. According to scientists from UC-Berkeley, the domestic cat’s slit pupils provide the dynamic range needed to help them see in dim light, yet not get blinded by the midday sun. 17. Cats also have excellent hearing and a powerful sense of smell. 18. Cats can be lethal hunters and very sneaky, when they walk their back paws step almost exactly in the same place as the front paws did beforehand, this keeps noise to a minimum and limits visible tracks. 19. Cats have flexible bodies and teeth adapted for hunting small animals such as mice and rats. 20. According to researchers from the University of Lincoln, cats prefer being touched on their faces, "especially around their lips, chins and cheeks, where they have scent glands." 21. Cats are quite possibly the only mammal who can’t taste sweetness. Cats lack the amino acids that would make the DNA for the gene allowing them to detect sweet tastes. j purina.com traversemountainpetcare.com chewey.com

MARCH 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 22

Clay County Agricultural Fair Advance Ticket Sale Thru March 31 Tickets are on sale now for the 2021 Clay County Agricultural Fair. Regular Ticket Prices are $10 for Adults, $7 Senior / Child, and children 5 and under receive free gate admission. Advance sale ticket prices are $7 for adults, and $5 for Senior / Child tickets. Advance armbands will also be available for purchase for $17 each. Armbands will be good for any day except Saturdays. Concert tickets are also on sale now. Tickets purchased for concerts include gate admission. You can buy with confidence knowing that should the concerts be cancelled due to COVID-19, you will have the opportunity for a full refund. Clay County Fairgrounds / 904-284-1615 / 2493 State Road 16 W, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 / www.claycountyfair.org Toytopia at MOSH Thru May 16 Toytopia satisfies the curiosity of toy lovers with beautiful, compelling, fun, and informative displays, and offers an immersive experience in which to explore the history of toy making. This family-oriented exhibition invites children of all ages to engage in play with some of the world’s most iconic toys. Guests will learn about the evolution of toys throughout the 20th century, witness a giant K-NEX ferris wheel, and discover a variety of unique interactives, from working arcade games from the 1970s and 80s to a life-size dollhouse. Photo opportunities abound with both the world’s largest Etch A Sketch and a life-size Monopoly car token to snap a selfie in. Participatory experiences include a giant piano keyboard you can play with your feet and oversized versions of Connect 4 and Battleship. Guests will also discover why some toys succeeded and some failed, and which toys have become collector’s items and why. They will learn about the origins of toys, who made them, and why they are so fun and so dear to us. The museum is limiting the number of guests each day to maintain appropriate social distancing. Ticket sales are online only and are required for all non-Member visitors, who must purchase tickets in advance. Tickets are only valid for the date and time specified. A digital confirmation and timed tickets will be emailed. Guests please bring your printed or digital ticket at your SELECTED time. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for students, military and seniors (55+), $12 for children 3 to 12, and free for children under 2. The Museum is closed to the public Monday — Wednesday. Museum of Science and History / 904-396-6674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org The Glass Menagerie at the Alhambra Thru March 21 The Alhambra Theatre presents Tennessee Williams' The Glass Menagerie. Ticket prices start at $66, with evening and matinee performances available. Dinner is included with the ticket price, and the menu is available online. There are no shows on Mondays. The Alhambra is taking every precaution to protect the safety of its guests as it relates to COVID-19. To protect the staff and guests, they are adhering to all recommendations from the state and local officials, including practicing social distancing by limiting capacity to

the recommended percentage in the theater and limiting access to the Library Lounge. In regard to seating, no two parties will share a table unless otherwise requested and each reserved seat is at least 6 ft. away from the next reserved seat (not in their party). Throughout the building, you will find measured distances marked on the floor to avoid crowding. Masks are to be worn during your experience at the theater, excluding during the meal portion. Alhambra Theatre & Dining / 904-641-1212 / 12000 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www. alhambrajax.com Make & Take Craft Day Thursdays, March 4, 11, 18, 25, 10am to 5pm Children's craft kits are available to make in the library or take home. New crafts will be available every Thursday. While supplies last. Clay County Public Library / www.claycountygov. com Fleming Island Branch,1895 Town Center Blvd, Fleming Island, FL 32003 / 904-278-3720 Green Cove Springs Branch, 403 Ferris Street Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 / 904-284-6315 Keystone Heights Branch, 175 Oriole Avenue, Keystone Heights, FL 32656 / 352-473-4286 Middleburg-Clay Hill Branch, 2245 Aster Avenue, Middleburg, FL 32068 / 904-541-5855 Orange Park Branch, 2054 Plainfield Avenue, Orange Park, FL 32073 / 904-278-4750 Monster Jam 2021 March 6, 7pm and March 7, 1pm Monster Jam returns to TIAA Bank Field. The event will feature over 12 trucks, including: Black Pearl, Avenger, Max-D, Megalodon, Grave Digger, and more. (Trucks/drivers subject to change without notice.) Tickets start at $15. Seating will only be sold in pods. All ages 2 and up will require a ticket. At the Monster Jam® Pit Party, you can see the massive trucks up close, watch live pre-race interviews and participate in Q&As with the drivers, get pre-signed autograph cards, take pictures and enjoy other family-friendly fun. Pit party passes must be purchased separately. The pit party is only available for the March 6 show. TIAA Bank Field / 866-248-8740 / 1 TIAA Bank Field Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.monsterjam.com The Sound of Music Auditions March 16, 6:30pm; March 20, 2pm The Orange Park Community Theatre holds auditions for their upcoming performance of The Sound of Music. For the audition, prepare a 16-32 bar selection of your choosing. An accompanist and Bluetooth speaker will be provided. In addition, please be prepared to dance and cold read as well. Orange Park Community Theater / 904-276-2599 / 2900 Moody Avenue, Orange Park, FL 32073 / www.opct.info St. Patrick’s Day Painting Party March 20, 2:3pm - 4pm Kids will enjoy St. Patrick’s Day-themed painting and Patty’s Day treats. Call 904-612-7557 to register. Seating is limited. Cost is $25. Children’s Art Classes / 8411 Baymeadows Way, Suite 2, Jacksonville, FL. 32256 / 904-612-7557

MARCH 2021 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 23

Join in the magic at Gaylord Palms with whimsical décor and enchanting activities throughout the resort. Participate in an interactive storytelling show featuring your favorite fairy tales, and then Spring It On with other premium amenities like our water park, spa, and signature atriums.

March 12 - May 16 | TicketsAtGaylordPalms.com Designed with enhanced health and safety measures. Learn more at GaylordHotelsClean.com.