Jax4Kids Sept 2023

Dear Readers,

This month, we celebrate Grandparents Day on September 10. It’s a day to celebrate and honor grandparents and the important role they play in the lives of children fortunate enough to have them.

The FDA has approved the first oral drug to treat postpartum depression. Read more about Zurzuvae on page 9.

Dr. Seuss’ books are getting podcast adaptations! The first in this weekly series is “The Cat in the Hat Cast,” which premieres September 18 and will be available exclusively on the Wondery+ subscription service through the Wondery app and Wondery Kids+ on Apple Podcasts. Read more about the podcast on page 11.

Saralyn Grass, the Chief Executive Officer of Kids Hope Alliance recently shared a powerful message, “Choosing Love over Hate: Guiding Our Children Through Difficult Times.” On page 4, we are sharing her message to the community and resources available to support the mental health of children and adults. To learn more about Kids Hope Alliance, visit kidshopealliance.org.

The City of Jacksonville encourages us to “Have a Plan” during hurricane season. To help you make a Family Emergency Plan, turn to page 8.

The FBI is sharing important information to keep your kids safe online. Please turn to page 7 and read through the information with your child.

A recent study at the University of Georgia found that a lack of sleep had a significant link to impulsive behaviors in children. Read more about the study and its findings on page 9.

Visit us online at jax4kids.com to find fall festivals and events.

Until next month,

Alison Peters-Carlson Editor

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Community Profile: HorsePlay Therapy Center

HorsePlay Therapy Center is a not-forprofit therapy organization located in the heart of St. Augustine, FL, that specializes in serving children with special needs and veterans with PTSD and other life-altering injuries. Their two facilities are based on the leading national medical therapy model that is proven and well-recognized. It’s staffed by licensed physical, occupational, speech, and mental health therapists, as well as trained volunteers. They are one of the few organizations in the Southeast that is dedicated to providing a comprehensive medical model of Hippotherapy and Equine Therapy to the children and veterans they serve.

HorsePlay Therapy Center treats children with diagnoses such as Down Syndrome, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Genetic abnormalities, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder. Additionally, through the Rise Up program located at their satellite barn, HorsePlay Therapy serves veterans suffering from PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Wounded in Combat, Abuse Trauma, and Hazing Trauma. No child or veteran is denied treatment based on their ability to pay.

Equine Therapy

Also known as Equine-Assisted Therapy (EAT), is a treatment that includes equine activities in

an equine environment in order to promote physical, occupational, and emotional growth for veterans suffering from the physical wounds of war, PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), and many other mental health challenges. Rehabilitative goals are related to the patient’s needs and the therapist’s standards of practice. Interacting with horses builds trust and confidence and strengthens emotional bonds with each session.

Hippotherapy

Hippotherapy is physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech/language therapy that uses equine movement as a treatment strategy. The movement of the horse influences the client, and the client actively responds to the movement. Repetitive movement on the horse in a rhythmic pattern of motion creates responses in children that help activate nerves and synapses. Hippotherapy enhances traditional therapy by allowing children to experience a special connection – sensory and physical – with their horse and the nature that surrounds them as they work toward their goals.

Physical therapy works to increase gross motor function. Clients might work on things like head control, sitting balance, crawling, standing, walking, going up and down stairs,

jumping, running, or walking on a balance beam. Occupational therapy works to improve fine motor skills and work on activities of daily living. Activities of daily living include socializing and playing appropriately with other children, dressing, self-feeding, and more. Fine motor skills include stacking blocks, doing puzzles, holding a pencil or crayon, and using a spoon, or fork. Speech therapy works to improve production of speech sounds and words as well as articulation of those words.

Rise Up Veteran Program

HorsePlay Therapy Center offers comprehensive clinical support services and equine-assisted therapies for veterans. Both riding and non-mounted activities help rebuild the trust and connection vital to physically and emotionally wounded veterans and their loved ones. All activities are conducted by certified instructors, mental health professionals, and trained volunteers.

Summer Camps

HorsePlay Therapy has held the Breeders’ Cup Summer Camp since 2021. This camp is a half-day camp, where the campers get to experience therapist-led equine-assisted activities, sensory trails, music, arts and crafts, life skills cooking activities, and story time with one-to-one child-to-counselor ratios.

This camp is put on by their clinical team, and counselors are Masters in Speech-Language Pathology students from Jacksonville University – Palm Coast Location.

This year, a sibling day camp for typical developing siblings of HorsePlay Therapy patients was offered with similar activities to the Special Needs camp, including horse rides, crafts, and sensory fun.

6th Annual Fall Festival

Experience a day of fall fun including pony rides, face painting, a petting zoo, bounce houses, dunk tanks, potato sack races, arts and crafts, County Line Provisions, Kona ice a pumpkin patch, and more on October 14, from 11 am to 4 pm, at HorsePlay Therapy Center, 1925 SR 207, St. Augustine, FL 32086.

Volunteer

Volunteer opportunities are available on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. Activities include horse grooming, tacking, and sidewalking. Sign up by filling out the form on horseplaytherapy.org.

For more information, call 904-315-8525, e-mail horseplaytherapycenter@gmail.com, or visit horseplaytherapy.org. j

horseplaytherapy.org

Choosing Love over Hate: Guiding Our Children Through Difficult Times

During challenging times, it becomes even more vital for us as a community to come together and help our children navigate the complexities of their feelings.

It is natural for children to feel confused and frightened by the news of a shooting or any act of violence. As parents, caregivers, educators, and neighbors, we hold the responsibility to provide them with guidance and support to process these emotions in a healthy and constructive manner. Rather than succumbing to hate and fear, we must teach them the power of choosing love.

Choosing love means showing empathy and compassion toward others, even when faced with unimaginable cruelty. It means standing united against hatred, intolerance, and violence, and working towards creating a safer and more inclusive environment for everyone. By demonstrating love, understanding, and

kindness in our own actions, we can inspire our children to follow the same path.

Engaging in open and age-appropriate conversations with our children allows us to address their questions, concerns, and fears. By fostering an environment of open communication, we empower them to express themselves and learn about the importance of empathy and respect for one another. Through these conversations, we can help them understand that it’s okay to feel anger and sadness, but it’s how we channel these emotions that truly matter.

Let us commit to nurturing the values of love, compassion, and understanding in the hearts of our children. Let us encourage them to look beyond the darkness and work towards a brighter, more harmonious future. As we guide them through this difficult time, we reinforce the notion that in the face of adversity,

choosing love is a powerful and transformative force.

It’s not only necessary to talk children through these events, but it’s also critical for adults to take care of themselves – both mentally and physically. Below is a list of a few of the local resources that may be accessed for both, although it is not meant to be exhaustive.

Community Resources

• Child Guidance Center – cgcjax.org

• City of Jacksonville, COJ, Social Services

– Mental Health Services – COJ.net

• Duval County Public Schools – Counseling and Grief Support – duvalschools.org

• Duval County Public Schools, Full Service Schools – Student Support Services – duvalschools.org

• Duval County Public Schools, Gain Resilience. Obtain Wellness (GROW) – duvalschools.org

• Duval County Public Schools, Social Work – Student Support Services – duvalschools.org

• Florida Health, Duval County – Behavioral Health – Florida Department of Health in Duval – floridahealth.gov

• National Child Traumatic Stress Network – The National Child Traumatic Stress Network – nctsn.org

• National Institute of Mental Health – NIMH – nih.gov

• United Way of Northeast Florida – Call 211 for Essential Community Services – United Way 211 j

Kids Hope Alliance

The Jacksonville Partnership for Children, Youth & Families kidshopealliance.org

Blue Bamboo Italian-Chinese Wine Dinner

September 14, 7pm to 9pm

Join chef Dennis Chan for an evening of food inspired by Italy and China. Paired wines will complement each of the four courses. The menu features Roasted Assorted Mushrooms "Sticky Rice" with Arugula Salad with Illuminati Montepulciano; Italian Sausage Wontons, Basil Oil, Roasted Red Pepper Sugo with Soul Glou Rosso Primitivo; Prosciutto-wrapped Cheese Spring Rolls with Fresh Melon Compota with Bricco Riella Moscato d'Asti; and Vietnamese Coffee Soaked Ladyfingers, Cioccolato Bianco Mousse with Mancino Chinato. Cost is $100 per person. This is an adults-only evening.

Blue Bamboo Cooking Studio / 904-646-1478 / 10110 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / bluebamboojacksonville.com

Adult Fishing Clinic

September 23, 9am to 4pm

This one-day clinic is perfect for someone who has never been fishing or for the fisherwoman looking to brush up on her saltwater fishing skills. All gear and bait are provided. During the clinic, participants will learn how to cast, tie knots, read and understand regulations, various bait options, what to know before you go, and more. This course is for adults interested in learning how to fish the saltwater waterways. Sign up in advance; space is limited. Cost is $50 each. Vaill Point Park / 904-209-0333 / 630 Vaill Point Road, St. Augustine, FL 32086 / www.sjcfl.us

USA Today Wine & Food Experience

September 23, 1pm to 4pm

The USA Today Wine & Food Experience is coming to Jacksonville. Explore a Jacksonville culinary adventure that celebrates the best local food and drink. Enjoy food and drink samples, attend demonstrations, and interact with exhibitors in an outdoor setting. Guests can customize their experience with either General or VIP Admission tickets. Event is for ages 21 and over. General admission tickets are $65 in advance or $80 at the gate. VIP tickets are $100 in advance and $115 at the gate. Free parking on site. Metropolitan Park / 904-630-3690 / 1410 Gator Bowl Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 /

wineandfood.usatoday.com

Bricks and Brews

September 25, 6pm to 8pm

Bricks and Brews is a LEGO® playtime for grownups. Join staff at Cultured Collective for monthly themed LEGO® challenges. You don't need to be a LEGO® super fan to participate. This is an informal way to meet people with hands-on entertainment built in. This program is recommended for adults ages 21 and up. Cultured Collective / 835 Park Ave, Orange Park, FL 32073 / www.culturedcollective.co

2nd Annual Museum by Moonlight

September 29, 7pm to 10pm

Museum by Moonlight is an annual event for adults during which guests meet at MOSH for a night of elevated fundraising complete with mixed drinks, music, aperitifs, and immersive community building and networking experiences. With animation-based activations throughout the Museum, this year’s Museum by Moonlight theme celebrates MOSH’s newest traveling exhibition, The Animation Academy. General admission tickets are $125 each; VIP admission tickets are $225 each. All funds raised empower MOSH to continue expanding its outreach; maintaining its permanent collections; funding its core and traveling exhibitions; nurturing its rescued animals; and providing world-class, STEAMbased educational opportunities through discovery camps and other immersive and interactive events and programs. Museum of Science and History / 904-396-6674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org

Drop-in: Board Games for Grown Ups

September 30, 3pm to 5pm

Relax at the Willow Branch Library with board gaming for grown-ups. Try out some modern games or feel free to bring an old favorite. This activity is free and open to adults only. Jacksonville Public Library, Willowbranch Branch / 904-255-2665 / 2875 Park Street, Jacksonville, FL 32205 / jaxpubliclibrary.org

Make It a Healthy Start to School!

Children need to eat a variety of foods to get the nutrients needed for growth. The minerals iron and zinc are especially important for brain development, growth, and a healthy immune system. Make healthy eating fun at home or at school with these easy tips to boost iron and zinc in the foods your child receives. Consider adding a variety of these food items when meal planning or packing lunches:

Protein Group: Meat, Poultry, Fish, Dry Beans and Peas, Eggs, and Nuts

• This food group is where many sources of iron and zinc can be found.

• Good sources of iron include beef, pork, poultry, fish, shellfish, legumes, and beans (chickpeas, lima beans, kidney beans, soybeans, lentils), nuts (almonds, cashews), eggs, fortified tofu and ironfortified soy milk and seeds.

• Good sources of zinc include beef, pork, lamb, poultry, fish, oysters, crab, shrimp, legumes, beans (chickpeas, kidney beans), tofu, and peanut butter.

Milk, Yogurt, and Cheese Group

• Foods in this group are not a good source of iron.

• Good sources of zinc include yogurt, cow’s milk, aged cheese, and cottage cheese.

Fruits

• Good sources of iron include raisins, prunes, prune juice, dried peaches, dried apricots, and dates.

• Good sources of zinc include bananas, dried apricots, prunes, oranges, apples, and raisins.

Vegetables

• Good sources of iron include greens (spinach, turnip, mustard, kale, Swiss chard, dandelion), broccoli, potatoes, and green peas.

• Good sources of zinc include green peas, potato with the skin, corn, broccoli, and spinach.

Bread, Cereal, Rice, and Pasta Group

• Good sources of iron include iron-fortified

cereals, iron-fortified or enriched bread and bread products, corn tortillas, and wheat germ.

• Good sources of zinc include bran cereals and muffins, rice (both white and brown), and whole wheat bread.

Now that you have some good ideas of what to pack, consider these tips on how to pack for your child’s lunch:

Keep Cool for School

Perishable foods such as meats and dairy products should not be left out of refrigeration for more than two hours. Keep your child’s lunch safe by packing it in an insulated lunch bag and include an ice pack or two. A frozen beverage container can also keep perishables at a safe temperature and can come in handy later in the afternoon for after-school sports activities.

Pack for the Long Haul

More than two-thirds of all kids say they want to eat healthy foods for lunch, but healthy doesn’t have to stop at lunchtime. Children who participate in after-school sports or other extra-curricular activities need a snack to get them through these activities until dinner time.

Since the ice pack is no longer working after school hours, pack foods that are safe at room temperature for after school. This can include trail mix, granola bars, carrot and celery sticks, whole pieces of fruit or single-serve fruit/applesauce cups, dried fruits, or cans of tuna with whole grain crackers. Don’t forget peanut butter/nut butters are a great protein source – try the all-natural peanut butter without partially or fully hydrogenated oils – send with graham crackers, and your kids will have a great afternoon snack! j

Aurea Thompson MSH, RDN, CSP, LDN Certified Pediatric Nutrition Specialist

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Things to Do Eating Well Events

Family Fun: Bakery Treats

September 4, 10am

Bake up sweet memories and delicious desserts with the whole family. In this family-friendly class, the chef instructor will guide you through preparing, baking, and assembling Whoopie Pies, Brownie S’mores Bars, and Elephant Ears. Cost is $69 for ages 7 and up. A paying adult must accompany ages 17 and under. Sur la Table / 904-719-7597 / 4713 River City Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.surlatable.com

Baby's Nutrition: Starting Solids & Picky Eaters

September 6, 6pm to 7pm

This free class will help parents understand their baby's nutrition journey and learn development cues and when to start solid foods. Learn tips and strategies for addressing picky eating behaviors from infancy through the toddler years, as well as the when, what, and how to offer your baby healthy food choices. The class is taught by a registered dietitian nutritionist. Free. Pediatric Associates / 954-966-8000 / www. pediatricassociates.com

Let's Be Happy and Healthy Storytime

September 11, 18, 10:30am

Miss Christine from the UF/IFAS Extension Center will be coming by for a storytime that will encourage healthy habits through books, songs, physical activity, and a craft. Weekly topics will include different healthy foods, feelings, mindfulness/yoga, and all the things you can do to stay happy and healthy. Family Storytime is designed for children 5 years old and under who enjoy picture books, music, and play. Older siblings are always welcome. Clay County Public Library, Middleburg/ Clay Hill Branch / 904-541-5855 / 2245 Aster Avenue, Middleburg, FL 32068 / www.claycountygov.com

Spaghetti Sauce in Cans

September 11, 9am to 1pm

This class will give you a step-by-step guide to canning and food preservation. You will learn the principles of canning and learn proper food safety while making homemade spaghetti sauce. Closed-toe shoes are required. If your hair is shoulder length or longer, it must be pulled back (hair must be secured firmly so no touching is needed). Please avoid wearing loose-fitting blouses or shirts that may get caught on the equipment. Registration is $30 per person. Jacksonville Canning Center / 904-255-7450 / 2525 Commonwealth Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32254 / sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu

Secrets of Blue Bamboo Favorite Dishes Cooking

Class • September 16, 10am to 12noon

Blue Bamboo hosts a hands-on class where participants will recreate some of the most popular restaurant dishes: General's Cauliflower, Dragon Whiskers, Sichuan Chicken, and Mandarin Orange Cake. Registration is $80 per person. Blue Bamboo Cooking Classes / 904-646-1478 / 10110 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / bluebamboojacksonville.com

Fault Line Cake Make and Take

September 16, 2pm to 4:30pm

Fault Line cakes can be decorated in any theme, from holiday to sports to whimsical. The pastry chef will teach the basic techniques involved in making this trendy cake. Then, you get to work crafting your own unique Fault Line Cake. A variety of sprinkles, cookies, and candies will be available for you to use. Note: The focus of this class will be on learning to create and decorate Fault Line cakes. Pre-made 6" cake layers, which are already cooled, will be distributed for guests to decorate. Admission ranges from $70 to $180. Jax Cooking Studio / 904-379-6220 / 14035 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32250 / jaxcookingstudio.com

Family Fun: Gnocchi Mac & Cheese

September 23, 1pm

Gather the family to craft a twist on classic mac and cheese. Kids will prepare fresh dough and roll it into a classic gnocchi shape. The menu features Gnocchi Mac and Cheese with Steamed Broccoli and Mint Chip Gelato. Registration is $69 for ages 7 and up. A paying adult must accompany ages 17 and under. Sur la Table / 904-719-7597 / 4713 River City Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.surlatable.com

Disney World Inspired Brunch

September 30, 10am to 12:30pm

Families are invited for a special Disney World-inspired brunch. Dress as your favorite character if you wish. Orange juice, mimosas, and coffee will be served during the cooking experience. The menu features Tonga Toast (Polynesian Village Resort) – Banana-stuffed Sourdough Bread, Battered, Deep-fried, and dusted with Cinnamon Suga; Berry Lunch Box Tart with Chocolate Drizzle (Woody’s Lunch Box); Breakfast Pizza (Contemporary Resort) – Scrambled Eggs, Bacon, and Creamy Cheese on a Delicious Pizza Dough Crust; Bibbidi Bobbidi

Enchanted Wands – Fruit skewers that look like the Fairy Godmother’s magic wand with dipping sauce; and Mystic Portal Punch (Toy Story) – Berry Lemon-Lime Punch (house-made). Registration is $70 to $180. Jax Cooking Studio / 904-379-6220 / 14035 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32250 / jaxcookingstudio.com

Visit

“Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier.”

– Mother Teresa

FBI's Tips to Keep Kids Safe

Read below for some key information from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on how to stay safe!

There are some very important things that you need to keep in mind when you’re on your computer at home or at school.

• First, remember never to give out personal information such as your name, home address, school name, or telephone number in a chat room or on bulletin boards. Also, never send a picture of yourself to someone you chat with on the computer without your parent’s permission.

• Never write to someone who has made you feel uncomfortable or scared.

• Do not meet someone or have them visit you without the permission of your parents.

• Tell your parents right away if you read anything on the Internet that makes you feel uncomfortable.

• Remember that people online may not be who they say they are.

Have you ever found yourself separated from your mom or dad? It’s scary, isn’t it? Then you know how your parents feel when they can’t find you! You might not think that it’s a big deal to wander off while you’re in the store with your mom or dad, but think how scared they will be when they can’t find you. Most of the time, you wander back and everything is okay. There are some times when kids are abducted. This means that they are taken against their will. Abduction involves people doing bad things to you or asking you to do things to them that make you feel uncomfortable.

Unfortunately, kidnappers don’t always look or act differently. They may try to give you candy or presents and offer to be your friend. Just remember that they could harm you.

The good news is that most kids or young adults who are abducted are returned home safely. Remember that child abduction is very rare. However, it is important to use your good sense in all situations. Here are some good rules to follow to protect yourself.

1. Share a secret code word. You and your parents should agree on a code

word that is easy for you to remember. This way, if anyone tells you that you need to come with them because your parents were hurt or are in the hospital, you can ask them for the code word.

2. Stay away from strangers. Who is a stranger? If you’ve seen someone hanging around your playground at school or in your neighborhood, this does not mean that you know him or her. Although he has a familiar face, he is still a stranger to you!

3. Grownups should NOT ask kids to do things that other adults can do for them. This means that you should not go or get in a car with an adult who, for example, asks you for directions. If someone does ask for your help, say, “Wait here and I’ll check with my mom.” Then, go get your mom.

4. If you lose your parents in a public place like a store or a park, do not go looking for them.

Immediately ask someone who works there to help you find them. Tell them you have been separated from your parents and you need help finding them.

5. Always ask your parents or a grownup in charge before:

• Going anywhere with anybody

• Leaving the yard, play area, or going into someone’s home

• Getting a ride home with someone other than your bus driver or your usual ride

• Getting into a car or going somewhere with somebody, even if it’s someone you know!

6. Once you have permission from your parents:

• Tell them where you are going

• Tell them how you will get there

• Tell them when you will be back

• And get back on time or call to let them know when you will be back!

7. If someone follows you on foot or in a car, STAY AWAY. You do NOT need to go near the car to talk to the people inside. j

archives.fbi.gov

CKAA Flag Football Registration

Thru November 4

Registration is now open for Flag Football with Christ the King Athletic Academy. Early registration closes on September 2, and regular registration closes on November 4. Practices will begin on November 13, with the season opener scheduled for December 16. The organization will host several free flag football clinics for players who are interested in learning more about the sport and practicing their skills before the season begins. No experience is required to play. Registration fees are $150. Players will be required to have a mouth guard and shorts with no pockets. Cleats are recommended but not required. No metal spikes are allowed; only rubber cleats permitted. Christ the King Athletic Academy / 904-718-4429 / 742 Arlington Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32211 / www.ckaajax.com

Family Yoga • September 3, 12noon to 1pm

Yoga Den Avondale welcomes kids ages 6 and up with a guardian to learn how important it is to move and take care of yourselves. Kids will learn yoga basics, breathing exercises, and participate in a group activity. Held on the first Sunday of the month. Cost is $25 per adult and $5 per child. Yoga Den Avondale / 904-662-0485 / 3653 Saint Johns Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32205 / yoga-den.com

RunJax Labor Day Run

September 4, 7:30am

Annual 5K run at 1st Place Sports Baymeadows. The race features a post-race celebration, prize money, large finisher medals, high-quality running tops, and electrolyte popsicles. Funds go to support high school cross country and track programs in Duval County and the summer camp scholarship program. 1st Place Sports is also helping raise funds to help build and maintain a three-mile running/walking trail in the new Aterro Recreation Park on Sunbeam Road. Registration is $30 to $50 for the 5K and $12 for the 1-mile run. 1st Place Sports Baymeadows / 904-731-3676 / 3931 Baymeadows Road, Jacksonville, FL 32217 / 1stplacesports.com

The SuperHero 5k and 10k Races

September 10, 7:45am

Bring out your inner superpowers for Nocatee's Spectacular SuperHero 5k and 10k races. The events start by the Water Park. Proceeds of the event are going to Saint Francis House of Saint Augustine. Race start time is 7:45am for the 10k and 8am for 5k. There will be a SuperHero race t-shirt for participants, finisher medals, a free downloadable finisher photo, and more. Registration fees start at $35. The 1-mile Fun Hero Run/Walk is $15. Nocatee Station Field / 400 Nocatee Center Way, Ponte Vedra, FL 32081 / runsignup.com

After-School Anxiety & Stress Management Bootcamp

September 12-14, 19-21, 26-28, 4pm to 6pm Florida Children’s Institute’s Anxiety & Stress Management Bootcamp helps your child build a “tool box” of skills to manage stressful situations.

During FCI’s anxiety and stress management bootcamps, they will focus on teaching your child to identify their common stressors, stress responses, and how to use coping skills. This bootcamp focuses on the prevention of stress within specific scenarios and teaches children how to recognize and cope with anxiety in onetime and ongoing situations they may otherwise avoid. Cost for the camp is $675 for new clients of FCI, which includes a New Bootcamp Client Onboarding Session. Cost for existing clients is $450.

September 12-14, 4pm to 6pm – 2nd and 3rd grade

September 19-21, 4pm to 6pm – 4th and 5th grade

September 26-28, 4pm to 6pm – 6th - 8th grade Florida Children’s Institute / 904-374-6403 / 8777 San Jose Blvd Suite 502, Jacksonville, FL 32217 / floridachildrensinstitute.com

Basic CPR Class • September 19, 6pm Pediatric Associates hosts this free virtual CPR class. Learn the basic skills you’ll need to respond to an infant/child in an emergency. The class will cover how to respond to breathing and cardiac emergencies for victims, etc. Held online as a free virtual event; no certification is provided. Pediatric Associates / 954-966-8000 / pediatricassociates.com

Youth Pickleball Clinic

September 23, 9am to 10:30am

Join The First Dink Foundation for a Youth Pickleball Clinic for ages 5 to 14. Cost is $25 per child. Participants should arrive with sneakers, water, and a paddle. There are a limited number of paddles available for use. Volunteers are needed as well. Online registration only. The clinic is limited to 25 participants.

South Beach Park / 904-580-0411 / 2514 S Beach Pkwy, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / www.firstdink.org

Youth Mental Health First Aid

September 28, 8:30am to 4:30pm

Youth Mental Health First Aid is a free 8-hour training designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge or is in crisis. Youth Mental Health First Aid is primarily designed for adults who regularly interact with young people. The course introduces common mental health challenges for youth, reviews typical adolescent development, and teaches a five-step action plan for how to help young people in both crisis and non-crisis situations. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, substance use, disorders in which psychosis may occur, disruptive behavior disorders (including AD/HD), and eating disorders. Free, but register in advance to reserve your spot. The Players Center for Child Health / 904-2022000 / 3563 Philips Highway, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www.baptistjax.com

HAVE A PLAN

Though it may seem difficult or time-consuming to plan for the unexpected, planning ahead is the number one way to stay safe in the event of a disaster. It is important to prepare for all hazards that could impact you, especially largescale disasters like hurricanes that may affect the entire community.

Prior to hurricane season, develop or update your Family Emergency Plan. Hold a meeting with your family to discuss what you will do in an emergency. Ask the following questions:

c WHAT IS YOUR ESCAPE PLAN? When planning for hurricanes, understand your evacuation zone and establish an evacuation route (see back cover).

c DO YOU HAVE AN EMERGENCY SUPPLY KIT? The kit should have enough supplies to last seven days for every person in your family, including a plan for yearly maintenance.

c WHERE WILL YOU MEET? Your family should have a set meeting location in the event that you become separated. Also, consider where you would meet if you evacuate.

c HOW WILL YOU COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR FAMILY IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY? You cannot always count on your cell phone to work, especially if cell towers are down.

c WHO IS YOUR OUT-OF-TOWN CONTACT? Pick someone that each of your family members can contact to check-in with and report their status.

c DO YOU HAVE A PLAN FOR YOUR ENTIRE HOUSEHOLD? This includes children, pets, and individuals needing additional assistance.

c DID YOU SHARE YOUR PLAN? Your Family Emergency Plan should be shared with friends, co-workers, and out of town family members. Encourage them to develop Emergency Plans of their own. Disasters can affect everyone in the community!

USE THIS QR CODE TO DOWNLOAD THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE FAMILY EMERGENCY PLAN TEMPLATE TODAY!

EVACUATION CHECKLIST

IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS

Social security card, drivers license, passport, medical and homeowners insurance documents

MEDICAL NEEDS

Wheelchair, canes, walkers, medications, hearing aids, and extra batteries

CHANGE OF CLOTHING

Enough for each member of your household

PERSONAL HYGIENE ITEMS

Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, lotion, deodorant, tissues, face coverings, and gloves

BABY NEEDS

Diapers, formula, food, and change of clothing

PET CARE

Identification and immunization records, carrier or cage, muzzle, collar, leash, food, and water

TIP: Prior to evacuating, consider taking photos or videos of your residence to assist in documentation of property. This may help provide information for potential insurance claims.

FDA Approves First Oral Treatment for Postpartum Depression

Recently the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Zurzuvae (zuranolone), the first oral medication indicated to treat postpartum depression (PPD) in adults. PPD is a major depressive episode that typically occurs after childbirth but can also begin during the later stages of pregnancy. Until now, treatment for PPD was only available as an IV injection given by a healthcare provider in certain healthcare facilities.

“Postpartum depression is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition in which women experience sadness, guilt, worthlessness — even, in severe cases, thoughts of harming themselves or their child. And, because postpartum depression can disrupt the maternal-infant bond, it can also have consequences for the child’s physical and emotional development,” said Tiffany R. Farchione, M.D., director of the Division of Psychiatry in the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. “Having access to an oral medication will be a beneficial option for many of these women coping with extreme, and sometimes life-threatening, feelings.”

As with other forms of depression, PPD is characterized by sadness and/or loss of interest in activities that one used to enjoy and a decreased ability to feel pleasure. It can present with symptoms such as cognitive impairment, feelings of sadness or inadequacy, loss of energy, or suicidal ideation.

The efficacy of Zurzuvae for the treatment of PPD in adults was demonstrated in two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter studies. The trial participants were women with PPD who met the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders criteria for a major depressive episode and whose symptoms began in the third trimester or within four weeks of delivery. In Study 1, patients received 50 mg of Zurzuvae or placebo once daily in the evening for 14 days. In Study 2, patients received another zuranolone product that was approximately equal to 40 mg of Zurzuvae or placebo, also for 14 days. Patients in both studies were monitored for at least four weeks after the 14-day treatment. The primary endpoint of both studies was the change in depressive symptoms using the total score from the 17-item Hamilton depression rating scale (HAMD-17), measured at day 15. Patients in

the Zurzuvae groups showed significantly more improvement in their symptoms compared to those in the placebo groups. The treatment effect was maintained at day 42 — four weeks after the last dose of Zurzuvae.

The labeling contains a boxed warning noting that Zurzuvae can impact a person’s ability to drive and perform other potentially hazardous activities. Patients also may not be able to assess their degree of impairment. To reduce the risk of harm, patients should not drive or operate heavy machinery for at least 12 hours after taking Zurzuvae.

The most common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, diarrhea, fatigue, nasopharyngitis (the common cold), and urinary tract infection. Use of Zurzuvae may cause suicidal thoughts and behavior. Zurzuvae may cause fetal harm. Women should use effective contraception while taking, and for one week after taking, Zurzuvae.

The daily recommended dose for Zurzuvae is 50 mg. It should be taken once every day, for 14 days, in the evening with a fatty meal.

The FDA granted this application Priority Review and Fast Track designation. A Priority Review designation directs overall attention and resources to the evaluation of applications for drugs that, if approved, would be significant improvements in the safety or effectiveness of the treatment, diagnosis, or prevention of serious conditions when compared to standard applications. Fast Track is a process designed to facilitate the development and expedite the review of drugs to treat serious conditions and fill an unmet medical need. The purpose is to get important new drugs to the patient earlier.

Approval of Zurzuvae was granted to Sage Therapeutics, Inc.

The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices.

Study Finds Improved Sleep Can Help Combat Negative Environmental Stressors

Sleep is a critical part of a child’s overall health, but it can also be an important factor in the way they behave. According to a new study from the Youth Development Institute at the University of Georgia, getting enough sleep can help children combat the effects of stressful environments.

“Stressful environments are shown to make adolescents seek immediate rewards rather than delayed rewards, but there are also adolescents who are in stressful environments who are not impulsive,” said lead author Linhao Zhang, a fourth-year doctoral student in UGA’s College of Family and Consumer Sciences. “We looked at what explains that link and what makes some people differ from others. One mechanism we found is sleep.”

Researchers analyzed data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study, a multi-year brain development study funded by the National Institutes of Health. Using information from 11,858 children from 9 to 10 years old, they found that lack of sleep and long sleep latency — the amount of time it takes to get to sleep — had a significant link to impulsive behaviors down the line.

Sleep problems, such as sleep latency and impulsive behaviors, were checked at multiple time points over the course of two years. When children got less than the recommended nine hours of sleep or took more than 30 minutes to get to sleep, there was a strong link to impulsive behaviors later down the line. Some of these behaviors included acting without a plan, seeking thrills or sensations, and lacking perseverance.

Sleep was a mediator between these actions, however, and when sleep problems were absent during the study, impulsivity was also less likely to be observed in the future.

ADHD, which Zhang would like to explore in future studies.

“We can look at the default mode network and emotional regulation regions,” Zhang said. “It’s also possible that this hyperactivity and ADHD are highly correlated, so in a future study, we could test that in a more clinical setting. That could have great implications on intervention or counseling programs.”

These findings not only highlight sleep’s role in cognitive and behavioral development but could also inform low-cost interventions to aid in the psychological development of children facing at-home stressors, Zhang said.

“If you want to develop interventions for people in stressful environments, it’s very costly, and sometimes it needs generational work to change,” Zhang said. “Sleep is a modifiable behavior, however, and these changes can be cost-efficient.”

Zhang said that too little sleep can be an issue even outside stressful environments. For example, teenagers often have a circadian rhythm that is geared toward staying up later and sleeping in, but early school start times and late nights completing homework can throw off that rhythm.

“A lot of adolescents don’t have enough time to sleep, and they are sleep deprived,” Zhang said. “This study shows why it is important to promote longer sleep duration by delaying school start times or establishing routines so that adolescents know, ‘OK, after this event, I’m going to bed.’”

Establishing these routines, no matter the environment, can create healthier patterns and reduce the time it takes to get to sleep. It’s also vital to act early when developing sleep habits, Zhang said.

fda.gov

Neurological hyperconnectivity, wherein the adolescents’ brains remained very active even when they were not actively engaged in tasks, also played a role, Zhang said. This study looked at the default mode network, a brain network related to goal-directed behaviors. When this network was hyperactive during resting state, it could exacerbate the link between stressful environments, sleep, and impulsivity. This connection could be linked to

“For people who may be in disadvantaged environments, if we can provide some strategies that help sleep, it can have a positive impact, especially for adolescents that are at such a critical developmental stage for their brain development.” j

news.uga.edu

Baby Safety Month

September is baby safety month, so it is the perfect time to learn how to keep your sweet bundle of joy safe! According to Safe Kids Worldwide, an average of 27,616 infants and babies under the age of 2 are hospitalized due to a preventable injury every year and another 600,000 are seen in the ER. Injuries can happen anywhere but often happen at home since that is where little ones spend most of their time. Babies rely completely on their caregiver for everything so check out some simple ways you can ensure their safety.

Safe Sleep

It is important to create a safe sleep environment for every sleep! Babies should ALWAYS be placed on their back on a firm, flat surface in their own crib, bassinet or play yard. Remove all items such as toys, blankets, bumper pads, and any other accessories. We do not want babies to be overheated so dress them in a wearable blanket that is right for the weather, and they should not wear a hat while sleeping. It is a good idea to have baby sleep in the same room as their caregiver but not the same bed. Also, caregivers should be careful to not fall asleep while holding the baby in an arm chair or the couch as babies can become entrapped and suffocate in these environments. Parents should share this information with anyone who cares for their baby as the American Academy of Pediatrics has updated their recommendations for how babies should sleep over the years. These changes are a result of research and should be reviewed by parents often to keep babies as safe as possible!

Preventing Falls

Falls are the #1 reason children come to the Emergency Room! Parents can plan on their little ones falling but we want to prevent the falls that cause serious or life-threatening injuries. Any fall for a baby or small child can be serious as typically they lead with their heads since that is the heaviest part of the body for a period of time. Parents should never leave a baby on a surface above the ground unattended for any amount of time. This

includes on a changing table or placing baby in any type of sitting device off the ground. Make sure all cords and tripping hazards are picked up, so a parent does not fall while walking with their baby. Install baby gates at the top and bottom the stairs. These types of gates need to be attached with hardware, so they are secure.

Water Safety

One of the most important reminders is to ALWAYS supervise children of any age in and around water. This includes bathtubs, toilets, pools spas and any other body of water. The most common place for drowning in the first year of life is the bathtub. Parents should be within arm’s reach of children near water. Be sure to empty any buckets or kiddy pools so that a small child cannot fall in. Talk to your pediatrician to discuss a good time for learning to swim!

Child Passenger Safety

All children will ride in a vehicle, so it is important to make sure they ride properly every time. There are many types of car seats and vehicles, and they all install a little differently which can be confusing for caregivers. At least 46% of car seats are installed incorrectly. Safe Kids Northeast Florida with THE PLAYERS Center for Child Health led by Wolfson Children’s Hospital conducts a car seat program with certified car seat technicians that can help families learn to install their car seat and ensure their baby is harnessed correctly. Families and caregivers can call 904-202-4302 to make an appointment. In 2023, 24 children lost their lives after being left in a car. Seven of those deaths have been in Florida. Children two years and younger make up most of these deaths.

There are so many ways you can help keep your little ones safe. For more information visit https://www.wolfsonchildrens.com/safekids.

Jessica Winberry Prevention Coordinator

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Safe Kids Northeast Florida Coordinator

Paw Patrol Live! “Heroes Unite”

September 2, 10am, 2pm, 6pm; September 3, 12noon and 4pm

Paw Patrol Live! “Heroes Unite,” based on the hit preschool series PAW Patrol, will stop in Jacksonville for five shows. This brand-new production is an interactive live stage show where members of the audience get to be heroes unleashed, helping the pups as honorary members of the pack. Tickets start at $45. Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts – Moran Theatre / 800-745-3000 / 300 W Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.pawpatrollive.com

Toddler & Me Yoga

September 3, 3pm to 4pm

Toddler & Me Yoga classes are available to toddlers ages 16-36 months. This class lets you reconnect with your body while enjoying time with your baby. Stretch, bond, and breathe with your baby in this special yoga class designed for mother and child. Meet other moms and babies while you strengthen and support your postpartum body and mind with specifically chosen asanas. Every class will devote time to gentle and strengthening poses done together between mother and child. Bonding postures, playful songs, and baby arts and crafts will also be explored. $25 for non-members. Be sure to bring a yoga mat, water or coffee, and any items you need for your baby. Soluna Yoga + Spa / 904-680-7344 / 2105 Park Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / solunayogaspa.com

Mandarin Lutheran Church Baby Pantry

September 3, 17, 10am to 12noon

The goal of the MLC Baby Pantry is to supply local families in need with baby care items, including diapers, wipes, bath needs, rash cream, ointments, and gently used clothing at no cost to parents in the Jacksonville area. The baby pantry is open on the first and third Sunday of each month from 10am to 12noon. Availability of items is on a first-come, firstserved basis. Bring proof of residency (driver’s license, rental agreement, or mortgage statement), as well as proof that the child you are receiving supplies for is your child (birth certificate) or in your care. Need is on the honor system. They are not asking for proof of income but do ask only that you help them be able to help as many people as possible.

Mandarin Lutheran Church / 904-268-4591 / 11900 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / mandarinlutheran.org

Drop-In Play and Learn

September 5, 12, 19, 26, 11am to 12noon

Drop in Tuesdays between 11am and 12noon to play and learn with various early childhood toys. With your help, learning through play helps to develop your child's pre-literacy, motor, and social skills.

Jacksonville Public Library, Pablo Creek Regional Branch / 904-255-2665 / 13295 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / jaxpubliclibrary.org

Pediatric Associates Virtual New Parent Class • September 7, 1:30pm

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 versus bottle feeding, and more. Pediatric Associates / 954-9668000 / pediatricassociates.com

Splish Splash Storytime

September 8, 15, 22, 29, 10am to 11am

Families are invited for a special morning of stories and lots of water play at a nearby Splash Pad. This event is held on Fridays for toddlers and preschoolers. Free.

Solomon Calhoun Center / 904-209-0381 / 1300 Duval Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.sjcfl.us

Virtual Breastfeeding Class

September 25, 6pm to 7pm

The class is designed for parents that are planning to breastfeed or need support.

Hosted by Certified Lactation Counselor Tawanna Nottage, who is also a member of the Broward County Breastfeeding Coalition. The class will cover the following topics: How breastfeeding works, Getting the best start, Positions & latching on, How to tell if your baby is getting enough milk, Common challenges and how to overcome, and Breastfeeding support. The event is online and is free. Pediatric Associates / 954-966-8000 / pediatricassociates.com

Birthing 101

September 26, 6:30pm to 7:30pm

This free one-hour session will introduce expectant parents to basic childbirth education. This class will cover the purpose of childbirth education, pregnancy warning signs, discomforts of pregnancy, how your body prepares for birth, signs of labor, stages of labor, how partners can support moms, medication in labor and birth, and cesarean birth.

Pediatric Associates / 954-966-8000 / pediatricassociates.com

“Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.”

— The 14th Dalai Lama

Broad Genome Testing Could Help Millions Dr. Seuss Dives Into Podcasts

Brynn Schulte nearly died twice when she was a baby, at one point needing emergency surgery for massive bleeding in her brain.

No one knew what was wrong until a test that looked at her full genetic blueprint found a rare bleeding disorder called factor XIII deficiency – an early diagnosis that saved her life.

Brynn, now 4, got the genetic testing as part of a clinical trial, the results of which were published recently in the Journal of the American Medical Association. “Whole genome” tests are nearly twice as good as narrower tests at unearthing genetic abnormalities that can cause disease in infants: The study found 49% of abnormalities compared to 27%, with more commonly used tests targeting particular types of genetic diseases.

Whole genome tests could solve the problem of doing several narrowly targeted tests on babies, which still might not find the disorder. Experts caution there are some issues, because labs vary in how they interpret results, and whole genome tests are costlier and less likely to be covered by insurance.

But researchers envision that whole genome tests eventually will be used for millions of hospitalized babies with confounding, sometimes life-threatening conditions.

According to the U.S. National Human Genome Research Institute, around 350 million people worldwide live with rare disorders, and about 80% of the more than 7,000 conditions are genetic.

The night after Brynn was born, her mother Lindsay noticed her skin was gray, her breathing labored. Blood had pooled beneath Brynn’s scalp, causing two bulges on her head.

Doctors transferred her to the neonatal intensive care unit at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, where she got blood transfusions and tests for different bleeding problems. She improved and went home — only to wind up back in the hospital when she was about a month old for the massive brain bleed.

After her surgery, Brynn stayed in the NICU for two months. At various points, doctors thought she might have a vascular problem or a mass in her liver.

Then, the Schultes learned about the clinical trial, which involved 400 hospitalized infants. Brynn and both parents got the whole genome testing. The diagnosis came in less than a week: She had the rare bleeding disorder, which affects an estimated 1 in 2 million to 1 in 3 million live births, and another condition causing a severe reaction to certain anesthesia drugs.

Doctors said that diagnosis would likely have been delayed — or even missed — with multiple narrower tests.

Many babies in the trial had genetic variants that narrower tests just couldn’t detect, said Dr. Jill Maron, a study author and chief of pediatrics at Women & Infants Hospital in Rhode Island.

That’s because targeted tests cover maybe 1,700 out of 20,000 genes, so whole genome testing simply “captures more things,” said Dr. Paul Kruszka of GeneDx, a company that provides whole genome testing but wasn’t involved in the study.

Broader access to full genome tests is necessary if more kids are going to be helped, experts like Maron said. Full genome tests generally cost about three times more than narrower tests, she said, and aren’t covered by Medicaid in most states.

Then there’s the question of interpreting test results: More than 40% of the time in the study, labs found the same genetic variant, but one considered it the cause of disease while the other saw it as insignificant.

One reason for the differing interpretations is that science is moving so quickly linking genes to disorders and there isn’t a comprehensive international system where doctors can check for the latest information, said Mara Aspinall, who teaches biomedical diagnostics at Arizona State University.

Despite such hurdles, some kids are already benefitting from whole genome testing. It made all the difference in ensuring Brynn got the right treatment so she could thrive, said Dr. Cristina Tarango, her hematologist at Cincinnati Children’s.

Today, Brynn lives like any active preschooler except for regular infusions of factor XIII replacement. j

apnews.com

Dr. Seuss’ beloved kids’ books — for the first time — are getting podcast adaptations under a partnership with Amazon’s Wondery podcast studio and network.

Wondery Kids & Family inked an expansive deal with Dr. Seuss Enterprises for a slate of podcasts. The first title under the pact is “The Cat in the Hat Cast,” described as a “fantastical variety show-style podcast series hosted by everyone’s favorite red and white hat-wearing Cat.” The weekly series, set to premiere Sept. 18, will be available exclusively on the Wondery+ subscription service through the Wondery app and Wondery Kids+ on Apple Podcasts.

“The Cat in the Hat Cast” will transport listeners to “a world full of delightful mix-ups and exhilarating mayhem,” in which the mischievous Cat takes the reins and enlightens the ever-cautious Fish on the art of hosting a perfectly poised podcast, the companies said. The podcast will feature alphabet sing-a-longs, tongue twisters, and wordplay. The Cat in the Hat is voiced by Andrew Barbato, a singer, writer, artist, and comedian based in New York City, and the Fish is voiced by Brandon Zelman, an actor, improviser, filmmaker, and writer from Brooklyn.

The companies expect to announce additional series in the coming weeks, with varying distribution models for each depending on the title.

Susan Brandt, president and CEO of Dr. Seuss Enterprises, said the company saw a jump in listening of children’s podcast content during the pandemic and realized it had an opportunity to enter the space. “We looked at all the big names in podcasting, and I was really struck with the creativity that Wondery brings to their projects,” she said.

“Wondery Kids & Family has an incredible vision for how to bring to life our characters and stories in podcasting form,” Brandt said. “We believe this collaboration not only builds upon Dr. Seuss’ incredible legacy but also plays a key part of our bigger entertainment strategy for the Dr. Seuss franchise.”

Dr. Seuss Enterprises’ other major entertain-

ment partners include Warner Animation Group, Netflix, and Amazon’s Prime Video. Founded in 1993, Dr. Seuss Enterprises donates all profits to charitable organizations that focus on causes such as education, health, animal conservation, and the arts. Dr. Seuss, the pen name of Theodor Geisel, died in 1991 at the age of 87.

Wondery had made a short list of potential partners with which to develop children’s podcasts, and Dr. Seuss Enterprises was at the top, said Nicole Blake, GM of Wondery Kids & Family and Wondery’s head of franchise development. Then, before Wondery even reached out, “they called us,” she said, “The stars aligned.”

“This deal with Dr. Seuss Enterprises is a milestone moment in establishing Wondery Kids & Family as the premiere destination for engaging family content,” said Blake. “Both Wondery Kids & Family and Dr. Seuss are all about unlocking kids’ curiosity, imagination and wonder. This is truly a natural fit and we are looking forward to creating an array of programming that entertains and inspires the minds of tomorrow.”

Per Edison Research, podcasts foster family connections, and podcasts already have a strong reach among children. Wondery Kids & Family podcasts can serve as a valuable tool, turning everyday moments into enriching learning experiences that lead to meaningful conversations and family bonding. Home to some of the most listened to podcasts for families with kids ages 3 to 12, Wondery Kids & Family shows include Wow in the World, the #1 science podcast for kids and their grownups according to Podtrac, hosted by Guy Raz and Mindy Thomas; Little Stories Everywhere, a weekly story podcast that brings listeners into magical, adventurous, fantastical tales to excite imaginations; and Whose Amazing Life, a puzzle format podcast that presents facts about a renowned figure and invites listeners to guess who the person is at the conclusion of each episode. j

variety.com podnews.net

Duval R.E.V.A.M.P.

The City of Jacksonville Emergency Preparedness Division, in partnership with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department, has created a new voluntary registry, R.E.V.A.M.P. Duval. R.E.V.A.M.P. Duval stands for the Registry for Endangered, Vulnerable, and Missing Persons within Duval County.

R.E.V.A.M.P. Duval is a voluntary identification program that aids in the safe return of individuals who may be endangered, vulnerable, or missing with cognitive and memory impairment or sensory disabilities. The registry is free to those who apply.

Who should register for R.E.V.A.M.P. Duval?

A person qualifying for the R.E.V.A.M.P. Duval is an individual with cognitive or memory impairment or sensory disabilities who may be at risk for wandering off and requiring assistance from emergency responders to be returned safely home.

How do I register for R.E.V.A.M.P. Duval?

You may register online now through the City of Jacksonville’s R.E.V.A.M.P. Duval page, visit jaxready.com.

You may also download a registration form and follow the instructions at the bottom of the form to submit by mail or email.

If you would like to register by phone, you may contact the Emergency Preparedness Division Office by phone (904) 255-3172. Please note you may be asked to submit a photo of the individual by email or mail.

What are the advantages of entering this information in R.E.V.A.M.P. Duval?

The information entered in the registry becomes available to frontline police officers and fire rescue personnel when responding to a missing person search for the individual. This information provides responders with important context about any behaviors, critical medical conditions, and the best method of approaching the individual when searching for them. The goal of the registry is to decrease the time needed to gather information and search for endangered, vulnerable, and

missing persons throughout Duval County.

What information will be recorded in R.E.V.A.M.P. Duval?

The information can include the following, but many fields are not mandatory:

• The name, age, address, and description of the person

• The name, address, contact information of the individual entering the data and any other support person who might be able to assist the person being registered

• Disabilities or critical medical conditions the person may have

• Behaviors that may be exhibited by the person

• The best method for approaching the person

• Any methods of transportation and locations the person frequently visits.

How is my information protected?

The information within the registry will only be used in the planning for and provision of search and rescue services provided for the individuals registered. The registry is restricted for emergency responder access only on a “need-to-know” basis for official search and rescue operations.

How will this information be used by police and fire rescue?

This information will only be used by first responders to obtain background information about people they are dealing with if the person is reported missing. In those cases, the missing person’s photograph (if provided), name, and description may be shared with the media.

How long will the City of Jacksonville Emergency Preparedness Division retain this information?

The registered person’s information will remain in the database if they re-register annually. You will be notified when it is time to re-register by email, phone, and mail. j

jaxready.com

Things to Do Special Needs Events

Sensory Play Sunday

September 3, 10am to 12noon

Sensory Play Sunday is designed for children with special needs to enjoy Surge Adventure Park the first Sunday of every month from 10am to 12noon without loud music or flashing lights. The park will not be open to the public; this time is strictly for those participating in Sensory Sunday. The cost is $7.99 per person. Surge Adventure Park / 904-312-7156 / 9292 Arlington Expressway, Jacksonville, FL 32225 / surgefun.com

Autism Creates Family Workshop

September 9, 10am to 11am

While children with ASD struggle with verbal communication, social relations, and sensory development, creative art-making activities enable them to foster new means of self-expression and communication. Utilizing two educational components — hands-on art workshops and the museum galleries — the Autism Creates program harnesses art and art-making activities as means of promoting expression and social interaction among children with ASD and their teachers, caregivers, and peers. Monthly workshops are hosted on-site at MOCA Jacksonville for up to 10 children with ASD and their families. Families will explore the galleries, create art, and participate in sensory activities. Held the second Saturday of each month from 10am to 11am. There is no cost to attend, but space is limited, and registration is required.

MOCA Jacksonville / 904-366-6911 / 333 N Laura Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / mocajacksonville.unf.edu

After the Diagnosis

September 11, 5:30pm

A Parent Support Group for families that have recently received an Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis for their child. This group will offer resources and guidance on “what to do next” and how to process your child’s diagnosis. Together, they will help you address the mixed emotions that often come with an autism label. They will provide information that may be useful for the parent/caregiver as well as the whole family. The more the family understands the characteristics of autism, the better the family can support the child. Free and held online via Zoom.

Center for Autism and Related Disabilities / 904-633-0760 / pediatrics.med.jax.ufl.edu

Mommy, Me, and My IEP

September 14, 6pm

Hear from a local mom and child advocate as she shares her journey through navigating the development, implementation, and revision process of her son's Individualized Education Plan (I.E.P.). The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a free family resource that promotes parental involvement, enhances

student achievement, and supports a caregiver's need for personal and individual growth. Parent Academy courses are offered virtually through Microsoft Teams. Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / dcps.duvalschools.org

MOSHHHH Family Sensory Night

September 15, 6pm to 8pm

Families and individuals are invited to enjoy exclusive access to explore the Museum in a sensory-friendly environment with modified sound and lighting, visit with featured vendors and service providers, and enjoy a Sensory Room provided by We Rock the Spectrum. Tickets are $5 per guest and free for children under 2 years of age. Family Sensory Nights are offered on the third Friday of each month. Museum of Science and History / 904-3966674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org

Sibshops • September 20, 5:30pm

Sibshop is a gathering of siblings across the ages to create community, build support, and share in the stories that make them unique as siblings of individuals with developmental, intellectual, social-emotional, and medical disabilities. Siblings will be able to join virtually. UF Health Center for Autism and Related Disabilities / 904-633-0760 / pediatrics.med.jax.ufl.edu

Vincent's Clubhouse Support Group

September 27, 6:15pm to 7:30pm

Vincent's Clubhouse, Inc. is a 501c3 organization that is dedicated to serving children with autism and their families by hosting inclusive social events, summer camps, support groups, and advocacy work. Join them in a welcoming environment for parents and caregivers of children and young adults with autism and other special needs to meet, share experiences, and give each other support. Free. Vincent's Clubhouse / 386-585-0926 / 11 Pheasant Dr, Palm Coast, FL 32164 / www.vincentsclubhouse.org

Special Needs Camporee 2023

September 30, 9am to 5pm

The Special Needs Camporee returns after a multi-year hiatus. The weekend for families features carnival-style activity booths accessible to those with all exceptionalities. There will also be crafts, games, leatherworking, field games/sports, fishing, and military and fire trucks on display. After the activities, families are invited for dinner and evening events, including a campfire program with Native American dancing, stories, and skits. For participants, there is a $5 registration cost, and for volunteers, $20. To ensure the safety of all participants, they require minimally that there be one adult per three student participants. St. Johns River Base / 904-250-9981 / 2513 Doctor's Lake Dr, Orange Park, FL 32073 / www.echockotee.org

Helpful Ways to Support Your ADHD Child’s Reading Journey

In this excerpt, adapted from What Your ADHD Child Wishes You Knew: Working Together to Empower Kids for Success in School and Life, Dr. Sharon Saline, PSY.D., shares some important steps you can take to help your ADHD child overcome challenges related to reading.

Whether it’s over-focusing on a story or avoiding reading as much as possible, hearing what kids say about reading improves your understanding of their experiences. Just like the manager probes his pitcher’s reasons for wanting to stay in the game, you can wonder about reading by considering things related to it: engaging content, English as a Second Language, dyslexia, or slower verbal processing speed. These issues are researched, and effective interventions are available through your school or private tutoring.

The first, most important step is making sure your child has been properly assessed for any reading disabilities and determining with the school if they are receiving appropriate instruction and accommodations. If they qualify for a reading, speech, or language disability, they will need special interventions to help them improve their skills and support to accept their learning differences. These interventions will occur at school but may also require supplemental help. Even without a diagnosis, though, reading can be unpleasant for kids with ADHD, especially if the material is not inherently interesting.

Finding creative ways to practice and enjoy reading can be a can of worms. You’ve probably tried a hundred different ways to make this happen. The goal here is reading anything (except inappropriate material) that is engaging and interesting enough for them to do it. They may or may not like it. The manager makes sure the team players are in good physical condition so they can play

baseball strong and hard. They may or may not like fitness exercises, but they do them in service of the larger goal of being in shape to play well. Your goal is to make sure your child knows how to read proficiently. Then, hopefully, reading will be less arduous and more pleasurable in the future, but who knows? Not everyone likes reading, and your child can still be successful in the world without it being a passion or even a hobby. You have to focus on the now first. Minecraft books; joke books; graphic novels; two-minute mysteries; magazines about sports, music, fashion, or other interests; the daily newspaper — time spent pursuing any of these should qualify in your home as reading.

Reading at school can be especially difficult, and you may want to use alternative approaches. Perhaps your son is more of an auditory learner and likes to hear books on tape. You could supplement visual reading with listening to a text. Maybe your daughter needs shorter reading assignments that better match her attention span and processing speed with a wider range of topics to make them more appealing. As the manager, step in and discuss these options with your child and their teachers, advocating for a way to make reading accessible and tolerable. One boy I know loves nonfiction but dislikes fiction. His sixth-grade teacher wanted the students to read a novel for their book report. He and his parents had been arguing about this assignment because he “couldn’t find anything good.” We talked about finding a novel that read like nonfiction: something historical or a fictional biography. His teacher helped him find one, and everyone was pleased.

Don’t give up — problem-solve. j

Sharon Saline, Psy.D. readbrightly.com

“A kind gesture can reach a wound that only compassion can heal.”

– Steve Maraboli

EDUCATION

The Power of Being a Positive Educator

Regardless of your profession, we can all be Positive Educators and help inspire the young minds in our lives. Positive educators have the power to transform lives and inspire young minds to believe they can and will change the world. In this spirit, here are seven ways we can all choose to be a positive educator.

1. Be Positively Contagious – Research shows that emotions are contagious. Sincere smiles, kind words, encouragement, and positive energy infect people in a positive way. On the flip side, your students are just as likely to catch your bad mood as the swine flu. So, each day you come to school, you have a choice. You can be a germ or a big dose of Vitamin C. When you choose to be positively contagious, your positive energy has a positive impact on your students, your colleagues, and ultimately your school culture. Your students will remember very little of what you said, but they will remember 100% of how you made them feel.

2. Take a Daily Thank You Walk – It’s simple, it’s powerful, and it’s a great way to feed yourself with positivity. How does it work? You simply take a walk – outside, in a mall, at your school, on a treadmill, or anywhere else you can think of – and think about all things, big and small, that you are grateful for. The research shows you can’t be stressed and thankful at the same time, so when you combine gratitude with physical exercise, you give yourself a double boost of positive energy.

3. Celebrate Success – One of the simplest, most powerful things you can do for yourself and your students is to celebrate your daily successes. Instead of thinking of all the things that went wrong at school each day, focus on the one thing that went right. Try this: Each night before you go to bed think about the one great thing about your day. If you do this, you’ll look forward to creating more success tomorrow. Have your students do this as well.

4. Expect to Make a Difference – When positive educators walk into their classrooms,

they expect to make a difference in their students’ lives. In fact, making a difference is the very reason why they became a teacher in the first place, and this purpose continues to fuel them and their teaching. They come to school each day thinking of ways they can make a difference and expecting that their actions and lessons will lead to positive outcomes for their students.

5. Believe in your students more than they believe in themselves – The difference between success and failure is belief, and so often this belief is instilled in us by someone else. You can be that someone else for one of your students if you believe in them and see their potential rather than their limitations.

6. Develop Positive Relationships – Author Andy Stanley once said, "Rules without relationship lead to rebellion." Far too many principals share rules with their teachers, but they don’t have a relationship with them. And far too many teachers don’t have positive relationships with their students. So, what happens? Teachers and students disengage from the mission of the school. To develop positive relationships, you need to enhance communication, build trust, listen to them, make time for them, recognize them, show them you care through your actions, and mentor them.

7. Show You Care – It’s a simple fact: The best educators stand out by showing their students and colleagues that they care about them. The most powerful form of positive energy is love, and this love transforms students, people, and schools when it is put into action. Create your own unique way to show your students and colleagues you care about them, and you will not only feel more positive yourself, but you will develop positive kids who create a more positive world. j

Jon Gordon Author jongordon.com

Top 10 Tips to Study Smarter, Not Longer

F or more than 100 years, psychologists have done research on which study habits work best. Some tips help for almost every subject. Other tactics work best for certain types of classes. Here are 10 tips to tweak your study habits.

1. Space out your studying.

Nate Kornell, a psychologist at Williams College, thinks it’s a good idea to study the day before a big test, but don’t cram all your studying into that day. Instead, you’ll learn and remember material better if you space your study sessions over several days.

2. Practice, practice, practice!

“If you want to be able to remember information, the best thing you can do is practice,” says Katherine Rawson. She’s a psychologist at Kent State University in Ohio. In one 2013 study, students took practice tests over several weeks. On the final test, they scored more than a full letter grade better, on average, than students who studied the way they normally had.

3. Don’t just reread books and notes.

Rereading is “one of the most common bad study skills that students have,” says Cynthia Nebel, a psychologist at Vanderbilt University.

Too often, when students reread material, it’s superficial, says Mark McDaniel, from Washington University in St. Louis, Mo. Rereading is like looking at the answer to a puzzle, rather than doing it yourself, he says. It looks like it makes sense. But until you try it yourself, you don’t really know if you understand it.

4. Test yourself.

Quizzing yourself is retrieval practice. “It’s one of the best ways you can study,” says Nebel. For example, cover up the definitions in your notebook. Then try to recall what each term meant. Such retrieval practice can help nearly everyone, including students with ADHD, research shows.

5. Mistakes are okay — as long as you learn from them.

It’s crucial to test your memory, but it’s also important to go the next step, Kornell adds: Check to see if you were right. Then, focus on what you got wrong.

On the flip side, checking the answers can make your study time more efficient. You can then focus on where you need the most help.

6. Mix it up.

In many cases, it helps to mix up your self-testing. Psychologists call this interleaving.

If you practice one concept over and over, “your attention decreases because you know what’s coming up next,” Faria Sana, a psychologist at Athabasca University, explains. Mix up your practice, and you now space the concepts apart.

7. Use pictures.

Pay attention to diagrams and graphs in your class materials, says Nebel. “Those pictures can really boost your memory of this material. And if there aren’t pictures, creating them can be really, really useful.”

8. Find examples.

Abstract concepts can be hard to understand. It tends to be far easier to form a mental image if you have a concrete example of something, Nebel says.

For instance, sour foods usually taste that way because they contain an acid. On its own, that concept might be hard to remember, but if you think about a lemon or vinegar, it’s easier to understand and remember that acids and sour go together.

9. Dig deeper.

It’s hard to remember a string of facts and figures if you don’t push further. Psychologists call this elaboration. It’s taking class material and “asking a lot of how and why questions about it,” Nebel says.

Elaboration helps you combine new information with other things you know. And it creates a bigger network in your brain of things that relate to one another, she says. That larger network makes it easier to learn and remember things.

10. Make a plan — and stick to it. Try to stick to a routine. Have a set time and place where you do schoolwork and study.

Allow yourself short breaks. Set a timer for 25 minutes or so, suggests Sana. Study during that time with no distractions. When the timer goes off, take a five- or 10-minute break. Afterward, set the timer again. j

snexplores.org

“Love and kindness are never wasted. They always make a difference. They bless the one who receives them, and they bless you, the giver.”

– Barbara De Angelis

Beyond King Tut: The Immersive Experience Extended Through October 22!

Beyond King Tut: The Immersive Experience, a one-of-a-kind exhibition developed in partnership with the National Geographic Society and produced by Paquin Entertainment Group, has extended its run in Jacksonville through October 22 due to popular demand!

Things to Do Education Events

September After-School Play Skills Group

September 5-7, 4pm to 6pm

The show is roughly one hour and is set up walk-through style. Start your Beyond King Tut journey at home with a free companion guidebook from National Geographic, available for download on beyondkingtut.com.

The exhibit is located at the NoCo Center, 712 N Hogan Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202. Tickets can be purchased at beyondkingtut. com/jacksonville. Paid ticket(s) must be purchased online in advance. The paid ticket must be a full-price adult ticket. Basic timed entry, Flex, and VIP tickets qualify. Group tickets do not qualify. Third-party discount tickets do not apply.

Florida Children’s Institute’s Play Skills Bootcamp helps your child build a strong social skill foundation through play. In FCI’s Play Skills Bootcamps, they teach a variety of skills for preschool through first graders, offer supervised practice in play, and provide immediate feedback on behaviors in a supportive environment. Play is critical for learning at this stage of development. Your young child will learn crucial play skills, including how to invite friends to play, how to follow rules, how to take turns and share, and more. This group provides a solid foundation from which your child will build strong social skills as they grow up. Cost for camp is $675 for new clients of FCI, which includes a New Bootcamp Client Onboarding Session. Cost for Existing clients is $450. This group is for rising Pre-K through 1st graders. Florida Children’s Institute / 904-374-6403 / 8777 San Jose Blvd Suite 502, Jacksonville, FL 32217 / floridachildrensinstitute.com

Americans and The Holocaust Exhibit Tour

September 6 thru October 12

The multi-gallery, multi-sensory exhibition is a magnificent, time-traveling adventure that makes guests feel as if they are actually in Ancient Egypt. With nine galleries to explore, Beyond King Tut: The Immersive Experience takes visitors on an epic journey through King Tut’s life — his rule as a child pharaoh, his family, the discovery of his tomb and the mysteries surrounding his early death, and his journey to the afterlife.

Beyond King Tut: The Immersive Experience is not an artifact exhibition, rather it is a cinematic immersive experience that takes guests on a journey to one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time. Journey to modern-day Egypt and see wonders of the ancient world like the Temple at Karnak and the Great Sphinx. Experience ancient history come to life and gaze at the Egyptian sun as it rises above the Pyramids of Giza, filling the sky with vivid color.

Travel back in time

3,000 years to the 18th dynasty when King Tut ruled and gods like Ra and Anubis were worshiped by all. Descend into King Tut’s tomb, 100 years since its historic discovery, and join him in his quest for immortality. Experience all of this and more in a story 3,000 years in the making.

Since Ancient Egypt is part of the 6th-grade curriculum, Beyond King Tut will be offering every 6th-grade student in Jacksonville a free ticket to Beyond King Tut when accompanied by an adult with a full-priced paid admission as of August 1, 2023. One free 6th grader per one adult ticket. One adult cannot admit two free 6th graders.

Also available at the exhibition is The Secrets of Tutankhamun, a virtual reality experience that takes audiences on a breathtaking journey to ancient Egypt –over the pyramids and through the Valley of the Kings, down into the tomb of King Tut. Audiences experience this film on specialized Positron Voyager motion chairs that are equipped with advanced VR headsets and haptic feedback, bringing them closer to the artifacts and sarcophagus of Tut than ever before. Learning the story of the most famous boy-king, the VR experience was captured with specialized photogrammetry at the actual historical sites. Over 80,000 high-resolution photographs of the archeological sites were reconstructed into 3D models to recreate an accurate digital VR version of the originals. j

beyondkingtut.com

The Jacksonville Public Library is hosting the Americans and the Holocaust Traveling Exhibition from September 6 thru October 12. Sign up in advance through the library’s website for a 25-minute docent-led tour of the exhibit on the 4th floor of the Main Library. Registration is required. A library card is required. Free. Jacksonville Public Library, Main Branch / 904-255-2665 / 303 N Laura Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / jaxpubliclibrary.org

A Close Look at Reading • September 6, 7pm

Dive into the science of reading and the role it plays in building strong readers. Learn about the state's F.A.S.T. assessment, instruction in the classroom, and strategies to support young readers at home. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a free family resource that promotes parental involvement, enhances student achievement, and supports a caregiver's need for personal and individual growth. Parent Academy courses are offered virtually through Microsoft Teams. Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / dcps.duvalschools.org

How to Become a DCPS Volunteer

September 6, 12noon; September 26, 6pm

Do you want to attend a child's field trip, participate in classroom activities, or volunteer at school events? If so, join this course to learn how to complete the application process and receive additional information about how to volunteer. Class is free and can be viewed online. 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 / 904390-2960 / dcps.duvalschools.org

Kids STEM: It's Alive: Rise of the Mammals September 9, 10:15am to 11am

Come help sort out the wild world of mammals and make a huge wall of mammals of every shape

and size. What makes them different? What is the same? This program is for children in grades 1 through 5. RSVP is not required. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Ponte Vedra Beach Branch Library. Free. St. Johns County Public Library, Ponte Vedra Beach Branch / 904827-6950 / 101 Library Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / sjcpls.org

Promoting Literacy Success in Grades 3 – 5

September 19, 6pm

Learn about grade level expectations and the administration of the F.A.S.T. assessment. Participants will explore how to use test reports, blended learning, and teacher recommendations to support their 3rd through 5th grade student(s) at home. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a free family resource that promotes parental involvement, enhances student achievement, and supports a caregiver's need for personal and individual growth. Parent Academy courses are offered virtually through Microsoft Teams. Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / dcps.duvalschools.org

Homeschool Science

September 19, 11am to 12noon

Students interested in science, technology, engineering, and math are invited to the library for homeschool science. Read or talk through a STEM book with library staff and then complete a STEM-based activity together. This STEM-based program for ages 5 to 12 features a book and science activities that encourage deep thinking and inquiry. Each week, participants will use a variety of materials to explore a scientific concept. Jacksonville Public Library Webb Wesconnett Branch / 904-255-2665 / 6887 103rd Street, Jacksonville, FL 32210 / jaxpubliclibrary.org

Cowboy Up: Homeschool Day

September 20, 9am to 11:30am

Wesley Wells Farms hosts Homeschool Days. Come check out Cowboy Up on the Farm. Watch a real round-up in action, learn about a cow's digestive system, and enjoy you-pick sunflowers, a roping activity, and a hayride. Tickets are $15 each. Wesley Wells Farms / 904-679-5660 / 2680 Ada Arnold Road, St. Augustine, FL 32092 / wesleywellsfarm.com

Internet Safety: Know the Dangers Children

Face Online • September 28, 6pm

The cyber world can be a vast and dangerous place, especially for children and adolescents. Join staff for a discussion about threats to youth on the internet, the impact of online activity, and how to keep children safe. This course is being offered in a face-to-face setting at the Duval County Public School Board building and will be live streamed via Microsoft Teams. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a free family resource that promotes parental involvement, enhances student achievement, and supports a caregiver's need for personal and individual growth. Parent Academy courses are offered virtually through Microsoft Teams. Duval County Public Schools / 904-390-2960 / 1701 Prudential Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / dcps. duvalschools.org

Duval County School Police establish new K9 unit

There are a couple new top dogs in town!

A Belgian Malinois named Maverick and a Chesapeake Bay Retriever/Poodle mix named LEO are two new furry additions to the Duval County School Police force, fulfilling a years-long goal of district leaders to create a K9 unit.

While LEO (an acronym for Law Enforcement Officer) is still in training, K9 Maverick was officially sworn in during a special ceremony on Wednesday, May 31. Along with his handler, Officer Joe Baker, he completed his K9 Firearms Detection Certification, giving Maverick the distinction of being the first firearms detective K9 in Northeast Florida.

With a specialty for sniffing out firearms, he will assist school police with conducting random school searches, investigating threats, and working large events.

School police leaders hope his four-legged companion, LEO, will join him soon as the canine is working diligently toward certification in detecting narcotics. His handler is Officer Alison Connolly.

Forming this new unit would not have been possible without the support of many community and law enforcement partners, including the Clay County and St. Johns County sheriff offices.

Maverick, who was donated to the school police force on March 17, began training with the Clay County Sheriff’s Office K9 unit on March 20. The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office has been providing guidance to school police over the last several years in creating a K9 unit. They were instrumental in the district obtaining and training LEO.

K9 Maverick will soon receive a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. K9 Maverick’s vest is sponsored by Barbara Napolitano of Oak Brook, IL, and will be embroidered with the sentiment “Gifted by B. Napolitano.”

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) charity whose mission is to provide bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States.

This potentially lifesaving body armor for four-legged K9 officers is U.S.-made, custom-fitted, and NIJ-certified. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 5,240 vests to K9s in all 50 states at a value of $6.9 million, made possible by both private and corporate donations.

The program is open to U.S. dogs that are at least

New Amazon grant to boost computer science education in Duval elementary schools

Amazon and Duval County Public Schools recently announced that Amazon is funding computer science education and teacher professional development for elementary schools in the district — impacting thousands of students from underserved communities and groups currently underrepresented in tech — as part of its Amazon Future Engineer program.

Duval County Public Schools is now part of Amazon Future Engineer’s target to bring computer science to 500,000 elementary students by 2025.

Amazon is working with BootUp PD, a non-profit professional development provider specializing in elementary school education, to bring computer science to each school. BootUp PD’s typically in-person PD sessions adapt well to a virtual model and provide teachers with the tools they need to bring engaging coding lessons to their students both onscreen and in person. High-quality computer science education for elementary school students during their school day is a critical piece of Amazon’s “childhood to career” approach because it helps bridge equity skill gaps at an age when students are just beginning to formulate ideas about their futures.

and technology and elevate our teachers through state-of-the-art training. Equipped and inspired by BootUp’s training, our educators will become catalysts of a digital revolution, while our students will learn to speak the language of tomorrow.”

“Amazon Future Engineer is thrilled to hear how teachers continue to go above and beyond to reach young students and pique their interest in computer science,” said Victor Reinoso, Global Director of Amazon’s philanthropic education initiatives. “We are committed to offering high-quality curriculum, professional development, and benefits to support educators as they help their students build life-changing skills that leverage computer science and coding to bring their dreams to life, no matter what career they choose to pursue.”

20 months old and actively employed and certified with law enforcement or related agencies. K9s with expired vests are also eligible to participate.

For more information, or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please call 508-824-6978. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provides information, lists events, and accepts donations at www.vik9s. org, or you may mail your contribution to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.

Dr. Yvonne Spinner, the district’s director of science, said the program’s first phase will be to provide the professional development curriculum to 16 pre-selected elementary schools. The computer science curriculum will eventually be expanded to all elementary schools within three years.

This initiative, said Spinner, is key to unlocking a future full of possibilities for students.

“Amazon Future Engineer’s groundbreaking initiative to introduce computer science to elementary schools marks an exhilarating leap forward in Duval County Public Schools,” said Spinner. “It will simultaneously empower our children to master the language of innovation

“This is the first ongoing national sponsorship focused on implementing equitable and sustainable computer science education that is available to all students district-wide,” said BootUp’s Chief Executive Officer Savita Raj. “We prepare educators and support districts in building long-term programs that provide equitable access to computer science opportunities for all students. Through this partnership, we will build a community of curious, innovative, thoughtful learners who are ready to most brilliantly impact our futures.”

Amazon’s commitment to Duval County Public Schools is part of the company’s ongoing efforts to increase access to computer science/ STEM education across the country, primarily through Amazon Future Engineer. In addition, Amazon has donated more than $20 million to organizations that promote computer science/STEM education. Already in Florida, 288 schools are participating in the Amazon Future Engineer program.

K9 Officer Maverick and his handler, Officer Joe Baker

K9 Officer LEO and his handler, Officer Alison Connolly.

New badge-based, emergency alert system being implemented in Duval schools

In the event of an imminent threat, school employees will be able to call a lockdown and alert law enforcement in seconds using an emergency alert system that was installed in all schools this summer.

Called Centegix, this badge-based system operates through a connection between sensors installed inside and outside the school buildings and a special smart badge worn by employees.

“Principals, teachers, and other

Teachers begin receiving salary supplements thanks to one mill

ton. When pressed in rapid succession, the button will simultaneously do two things:

● Send an immediate alert to school administrators that there is a threat and a lockdown needs to be initiated.

● Send an immediate alert to school police and Jacksonville-area law enforcement that there is an emergency and a lockdown is being initiated.

The sensors inside and outside the school allow police and school administrators to pinpoint the location of the employee who activated the alert.

Training for school leaders took place in July, while teachers and staff received training during their pre-planning week in August.

Thanks to voters and taxpayers, August 18th was the first payday teachers saw the impact of their new pay supplement funded by the voluntary one-mill property tax voters approved in 2022.

With the new funding stream, Duval County Public Schools teachers will receive supplements ranging from $5,400 to $7,000. Teachers with a higher base salary will receive the larger supplements.

work, and our teachers are having incredible success with our students,” Kriznar said. “I think almost all voters have a valued teacher in their life and understand the demands of the job and the personal sacrifices teachers make. I am thankful to the voters who said yes to supporting our teachers in this way, and I’m pleased to be able to see our teachers appreciated by the community.”

school personnel are on the very front lines of keeping students and schools safe,” said Jim Culbert, Chief Information Officer. “We realized we needed to enhance their ability to quickly and easily initiate a rapid response using a device that can be in their possession at all times.”

Culbert said the badge, which can be worn around the neck with a lanyard or clipped to clothing, contains a but-

For more information about Centegix, visit www. centegix.com.

Note: The district previously used the Raptor emergency alert system, which relied on cell phone use. This new system is integrated into employee ID badges, which district leaders hope will improve access and response time.

Support personnel, including paraprofessionals who work in a variety of school settings and office support staff, are also receiving supplements of more than $3,000.

DTU was instrumental in the campaign to educate voters on the teacher shortage and the need to better compensate the work of teachers.

Superintendent Dr. Dana Kriznar recognizes the success teachers are having in the classroom and appreciates the voters who made these supplements possible.

“Teaching is tremendously challenging

This year, the district expects to collect nearly $89 million with this additional one mill. As required under Florida statute, charter schools will receive just under $20 million based on their student enrollment.

Most of the district’s share, almost $58 million, will fund these teacher supplements. About $20 million will support supplements to other district personnel including paraprofessionals and office support staff, and $11 million will be used to enhance funding for arts and athletics. School board members and senior level executive administrators, including the superintendent, do not receive supplements from the one mill.

School

The School District of Clay County and Community First Credit Union are teaming up this school year to recognize Clay County’s outstanding schools!

This is YOUR opportunity to share with the community all of the wonderful things happening in your school. Each month there will be a new theme. Just visit ccds.myoneclay. net and use the “Click to nominate” link to share your story!

Two Clay County Teachers Names

Winners will be announced each month on the “School of the Month” page on the CCDS website.

What does my school win?

Thanks to Community First Credit Union, winning schools will receive the following:

1. A celebration for all school employees;

2. Money towards a school initiative; AND

3. A trophy to display in your school.

Congratulations to two Clay County teachers on being state winners for the 2023 Social Studies Teachers of the Year!

Sponsored by the Florida Council for The Social Studies, the awards recognize teachers who facilitate and inspire student learning and creativity in grades K-12. Please join in celebrating Breyana Stilts, Middleburg High School, who is the state winner of the Warren Tracy Beginning Teacher Award, and Justin Daniels, Orange Park High School, who is the state winner of the Excellence in Teaching History Award! Way to go Ms. Stilts and Mr. Daniels!

Clay County District Schools has 24 schools earn STAR Certification

Clay County District Schools has announced that 24 school campuses in Clay County have earned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ENERGY STAR® certification for superior energy performance.

“Improving the energy efficiency of our nation’s buildings is critical to protecting our environment,” said Cindy Jacobs, Chief of the ENERGY STAR Commercial & Industrial Branch. “From the boiler room to the board room, organizations are leading the way by making their buildings more efficient and earning EPA’s ENERGY STAR certification.” ENERGY STAR-certified buildings and plants are verified to perform in the top 25 percent of buildings nationwide, based on weather-normalized source energy use that takes into account occupancy, hours of operation, and other key metrics. ENERGY STAR is the only energy efficiency certification in the United States that is based on actual, verified energy performance.

“We’re honored to earn the ENERGY STAR for superior energy performance at Clay County

of the Month Spring Park Elementary School is Open for Learning

On July 19, 2023, Clay County District Schools officially celebrated the completion of construction on their 43rd school in the district, Spring Park Elementary. The school hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony and tours for faculty, school district staff, community and faithbased partners, and elected officials.

Superintendent David Broskie, School Board member Beth Clark, Assistant Superintendent of Operations Bryce Ellis, and Principal Tiffany Outman ceremoniously held the ribbon and giant scissors to commemorate the occasion.

The school district once again worked with amazing contractors at Parrish McCall Constructors, Inc., and project architect, Bhide and Hall Architects. Superintendent Broskie took time to acknowledge and thank both of these businesses for continuing to work alongside

District Schools and appreciate the efforts of everyone who has been involved in its efficient operation,” said Superintendent David Broskie. “Saving energy is just one of the ways we show our community we care, and that we’re committed to doing our part to protect the environment and public health, both today and for future generations.”

Superintendent Broskie credits this success to energy efficiency measures implemented at school campuses through the proactive work by school leaders, District operations team, and partnership with Cenergistic.

On average, ENERGY STAR-certified buildings and plants use 35 percent less energy, cause 35 percent fewer greenhouse gas emissions, and are less expensive to operate than their peers — all without sacrifices in performance or comfort.

To date, tens of thousands of buildings and plants across all fifty states have earned the ENERGY STAR. For more information about ENERGY STAR for Buildings and Plants, visit www. energystar.gov/buildings.

Clay County District Schools as they build great spaces for children together. Superintendent Broskie shared, “As an educator for over 30 years in Clay County, I can tell you how exciting it is to work alongside these individuals as we continue to build and create world-class educational environments and experiences for the students of Clay County. I am excited for the future of Spring Park Elementary School and the legacy this new school will leave in our community.”

The campus sits on a 20-acre site, serving students in grades K-6, has 48 classrooms, state-of-the-art technology, 50 teachers, and the capacity for 851 students. Spring Park Elementary, Home of the Owls, officially welcomed students on the first day of school, August 10th.

St. Johns County School District News

College and Career Night on September 6 Graduation Schedule 2024

From 5pm to 6pm and 7:30 to 8 pm, breakout sessions will be held throughout the school, covering topics such as financial aid, postsecondary disability supports and resources, college entrance test preparation, and more!

The St. Johns County School District announces the schedule of 2024 graduation ceremonies for St. Johns County high schools and First Coast Technical College.

(UNF)

Saturday, May 18

9 a.m.

Bartram Trail High School

UNF

Allen D. Nease High School

UNF

7 p.m.

St. Augustine High School

College and Career Night provides an excellent opportunity for St. Johns County high school students to receive firsthand information on post-secondary educational opportunities. Representatives from over 80 colleges, universities, armed services, career institutes, and trade schools will be available from 6 to 7:30pm in the auditorium and cafeteria.

While this event traditionally focuses on juniors and seniors, underclassmen are also encouraged to attend. Many colleges have very selective admissions criteria, and students should start planning early.

The event is presented by the SJCSD Department of Guidance and Programs of Choice.

SchoolMessenger Communication System

The SJCSD is using a mass communication system called SchoolMessenger. This allows schools and district staff to quickly and efficiently communicate general and emergency messages to parents/

guardians and staff using email, text and voicemail. See more at www.stjohns.k12. fl.us/schoolmessenger.

September Character Counts Pillar: Fairness

• Play by the rules

• Take turns and share

• Be open-minded; listen to others

• Don’t take advantage of others

• Don’t blame others carelessly

• Treat all people fairly

Follow Us on Social Media

on Facebook @SJCSD on Twitter @SJCSD on

County

Thursday, January 18

5 p.m.

First Coast Technical College

FCTC, Bldg. C, CC! Conference Center (FCTC)

Friday, May 17

7 p.m.

St. Johns Technical High School

St. Augustine High School (SAHS) Auditorium

6 p.m. Ponte Vedra High School

University of North Florida

3 p.m.

Creekside High School

UNF

Monday, May 20

6 p.m. Beachside High School

UNF

7 p.m.

Tocoi Creek High School

St. Augustine Amphitheater (SAA)

Tuesday, May 21

7 p.m.

SAA

Wednesday, May 22

6 p.m.

St. Johns Virtual School

Tocoi Creek HS (TCHS) Auditorium

7 p.m.

Pedro Menendez High School

SAA

Thursday, June 13

5 p.m.

First Coast Technical College FCTC

September Calendar of Events

September 4

Labor Day – Student/Teacher Holiday

September 12 Interims Issued

September 5, 9am – 10am School Board Workshop, SJCSD Administrative Building

September 5, 6pm – 7pm Town Hall Meeting, Bartram Trail High School Auditorium

September 6, 5pm – 9pm

SJCSD/SJEA/SJESPA Negotiation Session, Fullerwood Training Center

September 6, 5pm – 8pm College & Career Night, St. Augustine High School

September 7, 6pm to 7pm Town Hall Meeting, Beachside High School

September 12, 4pm – 5pm School Board Meeting, SJCSD Administrative Building

September 12, 5:30pm – 6:30pm

September 18, 4pm – 5pm

September 20, 5pm – 9pm

September 26, 9am – 10am

Special School Board Meeting, Public Hearing – Adoption of Final Budget & Millage Rates, SJCSD Administrative Building

Half-Cent Sales Surtax Citizens Advisory Committee Meeting, Fullerwood Training Center Auditorium

SJCSD/SJEA Negotiation Session, Fullerwood Training Center

School Board Workshop, SJCSD Administrative Building

Things to Do Teen Events Golf Cart Safety

Despite their name, golf carts are more than merely a means of transportation in between holes on the green. These beloved caddy carriers are being used more and more as a way to get around town – especially throughout the Beaches, St. Johns County and Clay County communities. But alongside their increase in popularity, there has been a dramatic increase in golf cart-related trauma in recent years, especially in children.

Lisa Nichols, RN, the manager of the Porter Family Children's Trauma Center at Wolfson Children’s Hospital who is also the president of the Pediatric Trauma Society, credits the golf cart surge with the influx of communities where this alternate mode of transportation is becoming more and more acceptable, as well as the many misconceptions that arise: Namely that golf carts are “easy” and “safe” to use. But the truth is, a golf cart isn’t the same as a car, and the reasoning for the resulting injuries is twofold: Many folks aren’t aware of the laws and safety regulations surrounding golf cart usage, and these laws aren’t always enforced.

One recent nationwide study found more than 6,500 children are injured each year while driving or riding in golf carts, with more than half of them aged 12 and under. While data confirms the Wolfson Children’s Trauma Center has seen a steady increase in golf cart injuries, they only have data on the most critically injured children who are admitted to the hospital.

Nichols said the most common golf cart-related injuries in children include concussions, skull fractures or more severe traumatic brain injuries (i.e., bleeding in the brain). Other injuries include broken arms and legs, rib and spinal fractures, lung contusions, and liver and spleen lacerations, as well as bruising and significant cases of “road rash.”

The good news is that many of these injuries

can be avoided. Nichols said to utilize golf carts as they were intended – to be driven on the sidewalk, grass or designated golf cart paths, not on the road, and especially with no one “hanging off” or riding while standing on the back.

“Many golf carts now come with seat belts,” she said. “Riders should be belted in appropriately, and there should be a seat belt – or at least a proper seat, if there are no seat belts – for every person on the golf cart. And if a car seat is used, it should be belted into the golf cart, just as it would be in a car.”

You should always read the owner’s manual thoroughly for important safety information and check the driver’s license requirements in your state. Here are a few additional safety tips regarding the use of golf carts in your neighborhood or community:

• Only transport the number of passengers you have seats or seat belts for, and operate the cart from the driver’s seat ONLY.

• Fully engage the parking brake and remove the key before exiting the vehicle.

• Obey and follow all traffic rules, including wearing your seat belt.

• Keep feet, legs, hands and arms inside the vehicle at all times.

• Ensure the direction selector is in the correct position before accelerating and always bring the vehicle to a complete stop before shifting direction.

• Slow down before and during turns, as well as when driving downhill.

• Check behind you before going in reverse.

• Always yield to pedestrians.

• Don’t drive while texting, intoxicated or during a lightning storm.

• Don’t allow anyone to stand up while the golf cart is moving.

• Use extra caution when driving in bad weather conditions or on poor surfaces.

• Avoid rough terrain and steep slopes.

• Be aware that sudden stops or changes of direction could make you lose control of the golf cart. j

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

American Academy of Pediatrics

Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles

Teen Art with Kasha: Oil Pastel Unicorn

September 2, 2pm to 4pm

Teens ages 13 to 18 are invited for a Teen Art with Kasha featuring Oil Pastel Unicorn. Registration is required. All supplies are provided by the Bartram Trail Branch Friends of the Library. Free.

St. Johns County Public Library, Bartram Trail Branch / 904-827-6960 / 60 Davis Pond Blvd, St. Johns, FL 32259 / www.sjcpls.org

Teen Lit Chat with E. Lockhart

September 6, 7pm to 8pm

Join library staff and fellow teens for a conversation with E. Lockhart, author of We Were Liars, Family of Liars, and more. She will be in conversation with local author Stacey Horan about her books and writing process. A limited number of copies of Family of Liars will be available to teens who register and attend, first come first served. This program is intended for middle and high schoolers ages 12-18. Jacksonville Public Library, Pablo Creek Regional Branch / 904-255-2665 / 13295 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / jaxpubliclibrary.org

Financial and Investment Literacy

September 7, 5:30pm to 6:30pm

Join library staff to learn about the different aspects of managing your money. Topics may include budgeting and saving, investing vs. trading, how to understand "the markets," how to position yourself based on your goals, what it means to do your own research, and how to keep and save more profits. Classes will be presented by Black Creek Wealth Management. Free and open to teens 12 to 18. Clay County Public Library, Orange Park Branch / 904-278-4750 / 2054 Plainfield Ave, Orange Park, FL 32073 / www.claycountygov. com

Ready. Set. Apply. (To College)

September 9, 10am to 12noon

A brand new school year is here, and college is right around the corner. What should you know about today’s college admissions landscape? What actionable steps can students take today to lay the foundation for acceptances and scholarships? Most importantly, what strategies work to make application season more manageable and less stressful? Your questions will be answered at the upcoming Ready. Set. Apply. (To College) event. It is designed for college-bound high school students and their parents – and sheds light on how to navigate successfully through college application season. You will hear expert advice on actionable college preparation and application tips, positioning for admission to selective colleges, how to get started with college scholarship search and strategies, and savings strategies for your child's college education.

Cost is $25 for one teen and parent.

LionShare Cowork / 305-928-3042 / 13475 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225 / www.admissionisms.com

Beginners Level 1 Glassblowing Class

September 9, 16, 23, 30, 10am to 1pm

Students will learn the fundamentals of glassblowing and the skills required to make paperweights, cups, bowls, and other blown vessels. Learn how to color glass, shape it with traditional hand tools, and inflate it with your own breath. No prior experience necessary. Ages 16 and up. This class includes four 3-hour studio sessions, held every Saturday. Cost is $325 plus tax. A $75 deposit is required to register. Max class size is six. Burnt Glassworks / 904-631-6596 / 5105 Philips Hwy #201, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www.burntglass.com

PVB Teens: Making Cake Pops

September 12, 5:30pm to 6:30pm

Teens are invited for an evening of trial and error as they learn to make cake pops. This program is for teens only, which includes students in grades 6 through 12. RSVP is required and space is very limited. Free; all supplies are provided.

St. Johns County Public Library, Ponte Vedra Beach Branch / 904-827-6950 / 101 Library Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / sjcpls.org

Understanding the New Digital SAT and PSAT • September 12, 9pm

In this comprehensive talk, the presenter will cover both the broad strokes of the test’s changes as well as specific nuances that are critical for parents and students alike. This is the most significant change in standardized testing in over ten years, and every family looking to apply to college in the coming years will benefit from this clear explanation and insights into maximizing scores. Free. Revolution Prep / 877-738-7737 / www.revolutionprep.com

HBCU Legacy College Fair

September 16, 10am to 3pm

The 5th annual HBCU Legacy College Fair is set to be the largest and most dynamic college fair since its inception. The fair features engaging workshops covering topics from financial aid to athletics and college life. There will also be a series of career panel discussions touching on careers in media, sports, and business. In addition, there will be several community organizations focused on creating opportunities for youth in attendance and disseminating information about their programs and scholarships. Held on the second floor of the Jessie Ball DuPont Center. Free. Jessie Ball DuPont Center / 904-323-1963 / 40 E Adams Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / thecenter1foundation.org

PETS

Animal Emergency Preparedness Guide

In the event of an emergency, your pet or service animal will need to have an emergency supply kit ready to go along with the rest of your family's emergency supplies. It should include:

Small Animal Preparedness

• Be sure all dogs and cats are wearing collars with securely fastened current identification that includes the telephone number and address.

• Train both dogs and cats to feel comfortable being in a crate for fast transportation during a disaster.

• Always bring pets indoors during the first sign or warning of a storm or disaster.

• Keep an emergency pet kit and ensure that it is easy to carry and in an accessible place.

• Have current photos of your pets in case they get lost during a disaster.

• TIP: Identification microchips are recommended for all pets. For more information, visit coj.net/pets.

Large Animal Preparedness

• Make sure your horse is identifiable with a bracelet or microchip.

• Train horses to lead and trailer so they become comfortable with the process.

• Identify evacuation routes where you can board your horses outside of an evacuation.

• Have a surplus of feed available. Don’t get to the last bale when disaster strikes.

• Never turn your horse or livestock loose. You never know how they will react, and

they could be a danger to you and others.

• TIP: If there is an emergency in Duval County and you have been ordered to evacuate, please contact Animal Care and Protective Services to get current information on large animal evacuation sites in our area. Call 904-630-CITY (2489)

Build an Emergency Supply Kit

In the event of an emergency, you may need access to food for several days. Being prepared means having your own food, water, and other essential supplies to last for at least three days. To assemble a supply kit, store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire supply kit into one or two easy-to-carry containers. In some disasters, you may be safer staying at home. In the event that you need to evacuate, make sure you bring your emergency supply kit with you. An emergency supply kit for a pet or service animal should include:

• Water (one gallon per day for each animal)

• Food and Treats

• Food and Water Bowls

• Medications

• Vaccination and Registration Records

• Collar or Harness with ID Tag, Rabies Tag and Leash

• Cat Litter and Tray

• Plastic Bags for Pet Waste

• Current Photo of You and Your Pets

• Comfort Items (toys, bedding)

• Cage or Carrier for Each Animal j jaxready.com

Things to Do Pet Events

JHS Day Camp: Back to Drool

September 4, 9am to 4pm

Children in grades 3 through 8 are invited to go “Back to Drool” with the animals at Jacksonville Humane Society. Campers will help the pets have a “day at school.” Learn the art of clicker training, pack the pets tasty lunches, practice Pawsitive Reading skills, have recess with a dog or two, and more. Cost is $90 per child, and extended care is available for an additional cost. Campers must bring lunch and a water bottle. One snack will be provided to all campers in the morning. Jacksonville Humane Society / 904-725-8766 / 8464 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32216 / jaxhumane.org

Grooming Demo & Workshop

September 10, 9am to 4pm

JeePee's Spaw hosts award-winning groomer Lisa Hart for a special Grooming Demo & Workshop. Lisa has over 15 years of experience in grooming and specializes in Asian fusion styles. She holds her City and Guilds level 3 dog grooming diploma, her PTTLS in teaching, and is currently working towards her ICMG master's qualification.

JeePee's Spaw / 904-637-5335 / 518 Hollyberry Lane, Orange Park, FL 32073 / jeepeespaw.com

Women, Wine and Working Dogs Workshop

September 10, 10am to 4:30pm

This workshop series is designed for women who want to jump into the process of confidently working their dog. The trainers will focus on how to reduce emotional conductivity, empower handlers to be "assertive" without "being mean," build confidence in and focus on methods that use a female's body shape to their advantage, and communicate effectively and thoroughly with their dog. This one-day workshop is specifically tailored to learning about dog play, enrichment, pack integration/ concerns, and more. Fees range from $75 to $125. Homemade Hounds Bed & Biscuit / 904-203-7314 / 34 Zibra Street, Middleburg, FL 32068 / www.homemadehounds.com

Tails and Trails 2023

September 23, 11am to 3pm

Join the Jacksonville Arboretum for an event that celebrates your best four-legged friends. The pet-loving public can explore the Arboretum’s natural wonders while enjoying guided trail hikes, live performances by area musicians, food trucks, pet vendors, pet pools, and more. Tickets are $10 each. Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens / 904-318-4342 / 1445 Millcoe Road, Jacksonville, FL 32225 / www.jacksonvillearboretum.org

Paint Your Own Pet

September 24, 1pm to 4pm

This is a personalized painting session where staff will teach you how to paint your own pet. Please send a high-resolution headshot image of your pet to studio086@paintingwithatwist. com in advance for them to pre-sketch your fur baby before the class. Paint Your Own Pet is offered on your choice of a 16x20 canvas for $60 or a 12x12 canvas for $60. Only one pet per sign-up.

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

25th Annual Toast to the Animals

September 26, 6pm to 9:30pm

Adults are invited for an evening of food, music, and drinks to benefit the Jacksonville Humane Society Medical Fund. The evening will feature hors d’oeuvres and desserts from local restaurants and eateries, wine, beer, music, silent and live auctions, raffles, a wine pull, a candle pull, a photo booth, and more. All guests will receive a commemorative JHS wine glass upon check-in. This event is 21 and up. General admission tickets start at $150. EverBank Field / 904-725 8766 / 1 EverBank Field Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / jaxhumane.org

Pups & Sups Dog Surfing Classic

September 29-30

Dog families are invited for a weekend at the beach while supporting a worthy non-profit charity, K9s For Warriors. The event-filled dog-friendly weekend will have something for everyone while raising money to support this important charity that obtains, trains, and provides service dogs for Veterans in need. There will be dogs surfing, paddle boarding, a pet fashion show at the special “Pups on the Patio Yappy Hour,” a 7 Slot Veteran Salute awarding Jeep owners who participate with their own Guy Harvey Resort Surf Rated Badge, as well as a Surf Village with Hospitality Tents. Participation starts at $10 per pet per event. Guy Harvey Outpost Resort / 904-471-2555 / 860 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine Beach, FL 32080 / guyharveyoutpost.com

K3 – Kanine Triathlon

September 30, 9am to 3pm

Dogs are invited for the inaugural K9 Triathlon event. Each team will compete in dock diving, frisbee, and agility to earn a combined overall score. There will also be awards for the top team in each event and Junior Handler prizes as well. All of the events are set up to be beginner-friendly. Dash N' Splash: Jacksonville's Dock Diving Club / 1730 Perry Road, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043

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

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”

– Margaret Mead

Connecting Kids and Nature Things to Do Nature Events

Today, the amount of time kids spend outside is alarmingly low — only minutes per day — while screen time is at an all-time high.

With their Green Hour program, the National Wildlife Federation has set a new goal to stem the tide and move kids back outdoors. Their three-year goal is to get 21 million American children, teens, and young adults out of their indoor habitat and into the great outdoors. This goal propels us toward a future in which all kids spend time outside each day, creating a generation of happier, healthier children with more awareness and connection to the natural world.

The National Wildlife Federation’s Green Hour program is designed to encourage parents, schools, childcare centers, park agencies, camps, grandparents, and others to adopt a goal of one hour each day for children to play and learn outdoors in nature.

Why Have a Green Hour?

The idea of a "Green Hour" comes from research on creative play and health by the Centers for Disease Control and the Academy of America Pediatrics. Research also shows the best way to connect young people to a lifelong concern for nature, wildlife, and the outdoors is through regular positive experiences.

Getting kids outside has never been more important. That’s why the National Wildlife Federation has teamed up with L.L.Bean to provide kids and families with safe, fun, and easy activities to do outdoors. Each week, they will provide new activities that can be completed in 15 to 30 minutes for connecting kids to nature. The activities – which include playing bird bingo, going on a leaf patrol, becoming a wildlife detective, and identifying animal tracks, provide simple ways for kids to connect with nature throughout each season. To make their outdoor experiences more meaningful, kids are encouraged to keep a Nature Notebook to guide their discoveries and document their new knowledge of the natural world. You can also find an archive of all past nature activities by visiting thegreenhour.org.

“Our purpose is to inspire and enable people to experience the restorative power of being outside,” said Shawn Gorman, Executive Chairman and great-grandson of L.L.Bean.

“Our partnership with the National Wildlife Federation is intended to provide parents with

some relief, and kids with some fun ways to play outside.”

Green Hour content will be distributed by both L.L.Bean and the National Wildlife Federation through newsletters, social media, on the L.L.Bean Outside web page, as well as the Green Hour website.

Why Connect Kids and Nature?

The nature of childhood has changed. American childhood has moved indoors during the last two decades, taking a mental and physical toll on today’s kids. The negative impact of decreased time outdoors includes a doubling of the childhood obesity rate — accompanied by an incremental hundred-billion-dollar cost to our healthcare system — as well as declining creativity, concentration, and social skills.

Connecting children and nature has important health benefits. Studies show outdoor time helps children grow lean and strong, enhances imaginations and attention spans, decreases aggression, and boosts classroom performance. In addition, children who spend time in nature regularly are shown to become better stewards of the environment.

Fast Facts: Outdoor Time and Children

• Children are spending half as much time outdoors as they did 20 years ago.

• Children who play outside are more physically active, more creative in their play, less aggressive, and show better concentration.

• Sixty minutes of daily unstructured free play is essential to children’s physical and mental health.

• The most direct route to caring for the environment as an adult is participating in “wild nature activities” before the age of 11.

The National Wildlife Federation has been on the front lines for wildlife since 1936, fighting for the conservation values that are woven into the fabric of our nation's collective heritage. For decades, the National Wildlife Federation has worked to connect children and youth with nature, inspiring children through Ranger Rick® magazine, working with educators to get kids learning outdoors, and helping parents find new ways to engage their children outside. j

nwf.org

thegreenhour.org

The Jacksonville Orchid Society Re-Potting Clinic • September 2, 10am to 1pm

Beginners and new members are invited for a re-potting clinic. Learn by doing in a clinic intended to teach members and the public how to re-pot their own orchids. Challenge members of the Jacksonville Orchid Society with your tough orchids and questions. Please bring no more than five orchids per individual. After the clinic, join JOS members for lunch at the local Sonny’s BBQ.

Hagan Ace Hardware / 12501 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / jaxorchidsociety.org

Life Lit: Fall Gardening Tips

September 12, 6:30pm to 7:45pm

Want to maintain a pretty landscape during the fall and winter? Join UF/IFAS Extension Group for a free workshop on fall gardening tips.

Life Lit are free workshops offered by trained professionals and volunteers that focus on improving your day-to-day life. These programs cover a wide range of workshops, from gardening to small business needs. No need to bring anything but yourself to participate. Free, but register in advance. Jacksonville Public Library, University Park Branch / 904-2552665 / 3435 University Blvd North, Jacksonville, FL 32277 / jaxpubliclibrary.org

Horticulture Corner: Creating Wildflower Habitats • September 12, 6:30pm

Join Emily Bell of the Florida Wildflower Foundation to learn how to create a habitat for native pollinators, birds, and other wildlife in your own landscape with native plants. Find out how you can support local biodiversity, reduce the need for fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides, and conserve water resources, all while providing food for local wildlife. This program will be offered in person at the Garden Club and simultaneously on Zoom. You will receive the Zoom link when you register. The program is free and open to the public.

Garden Club of Jacksonville / 904-355-4224 / 1005 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.gardenclubjax.org

Florida Fin Fest • September 15, 3pm to 10pm; September 16, 12noon to 10pm Florida Fin Fest is a free two-day ocean conservation, education, and music festival benefiting OCEARCH. VIP ticket options are available for purchase. The Education Village, presented by Ocean Conservancy, features an immersive underwater VR experience, a mobile planetarium from MOSH, touch tanks from Jacksonville University, and more.

Seawalk Pavilion / 75 1st Street North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / flfinfest.com

Budding Gardeners: CleanUp Jax

September 16, 9am to 12noon

Join the Garden Club of Jacksonville and Riverside Avondale Preservation on National CleanUp Day. Children and their families join this national effort to keep the outdoors clean. As a group, children and their parents will safely pick up litter along Post Street and Riverside Avenue. This special Budding Gardeners starts at the Garden Club at 9am and continues until 11am. Refreshments will be served at the Garden Club at 11am. This event is free and open to the public, but please register in advance so they know how many people to expect. Each registration includes one parent and child.

Garden Club of Jacksonville / 904-355-4224 / 1005 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.gardenclubjax.org

Life Lit: Tips for the Season

September 19, 6pm to 7pm

Summer is over, and now is the perfect time to work on your garden to do list: plant, prune, propagate, and prepare. Join staff at Charles Webb Wesconnett Regional to learn about tips for the season from a master gardener. Registration is required for this event and must be completed two hours prior to the start time. A library card and PIN are required for registration. Free. Jacksonville Public Library, Charles Webb Wesconnett Regional Branch / 904-2552665 / 6887 103rd Street, Jacksonville, FL 32210 / jaxpubliclibrary.org

Treasures of the Beach

September 29, 2pm to 3pm

Our East Coast beaches are constantly changing and bringing new items up to see: shells, sea beans, grasses, sharks’ teeth, marine debris, and more can be discovered. Come learn how to identify each of these items, where they came from, and more. Join Parks Naturalist Kelly Usina for an engaging walk to discover the treasures you can find at the beach. Free. Mussallem Beachfront Park / 904-209-0655 / 3365 Coastal Highway, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.sjcfl.us

Solar Eclipse 101 With the Ancient City Astronomy Club

September 30, 11am to 12noon

Learn about astronomy resources and local viewing opportunities with the Ancient City Astronomy Club. Members will bring telescopes with safe solar filters for you to view the sun. They will also discuss the two upcoming solar eclipses. Attend the program and receive your pair of solar eclipse glasses for the upcoming eclipse. Free Solar eclipse glasses are limited and provided by a grant from the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation. Additional pairs will be available for sale from the Hastings Branch Friends of the Library.

St. Johns County Public Library, Hastings Branch / 904-827-6970 / 6195 S Main Street, Hastings, FL 32145 / sjcpls.org

Visit

THINGS TO DO

Beyond King Tut: The Immersive Experience

Thru September 3

Beyond King Tut: The Immersive Experience is a cinematic immersive exhibition that takes guests on a journey to one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time. Journey to modern-day Egypt and see wonders of the ancient world like the Temple at Karnak and the Great Sphinx. Experience ancient history come to life in a dramatic and immersive projection experience. Through nine distinct multi-sensory galleries, Beyond King Tut: The Immersive Experience unlocks the 3,300-yearold story of King Tut in an evolution of immersive experiences. Open Wednesday thru Sunday. Tickets start at $43.99 for adults 16 and up and $28.99 for children ages 5 to 15. Family four-pack tickets are available for $35.99 each. Parking is available in the parkade directly across the street from the Main Entrance. Please note that parking must be paid by card, as only cashless payments are being accepted at this time. Parking rates start at $6 per hour.

NoCo Center / 800-441-0819 / 712 N Hogan Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / beyondkingtut.com

Expedition Dinosaur: Rise of the Mammals

Thru September 10

Expedition Dinosaur: Rise of the Mammals combines life-size and lifelike animatronic dinosaurs and mammals with realistic movements and sounds with educational, interactive experiences. Now, everyone can explore the ever-changing history of the Cretaceous period. The exhibit is included with general admission. Museum of Science and History / 904-396-6674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org

Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Charlotte

Knights • September 1-3

The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp take on the Charlotte Knights. Single game tickets start at $7, with multi-game and group packages available. Section 108 F-Q is a designated Family Section, with no alcohol allowed.

September 1, 7:05pm – Red Shirt Friday – fans who wear red save $1 on a ticket at the box office // Friday Night Fireworks // Rock Induction Night

September 2, 6:35pm – Saturday Night Fireworks // Phobias Night! // Campfire Mug Giveaway

September 3, 6:35pm – Baptist Health Sunday

Family FUNday – 20-minute pre-game catch on the field, and kids can feel like the pros after each Sunday game by running the bases; there will also be free face painting and balloon animals // Sunday Holiday Fireworks 121 Financial Ballpark / 904358-2846 / 301 A. Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / jaxshrimp.com

Summer at the Cummer

September 1, 8, 4pm to 9pm

The Cummer Museum hosts a special summer series with live music, beverages, outdoor games, and dynamic art and culture experiences featuring talented Northeast Florida creatives. Admission is free. Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens / 904356-6857 / 829 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.cummermuseum.org

Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow Party

September 2, 12:30pm, 7:30pm;

September 3, 2:30pm

Get ready for the first-ever Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow Party as they stop in Jackson-

ville for three shows. See real-life versions of the famous Hot Wheels monster truck toys in the dark, including Mega Wrex, Tiger Shark, Boneshaker, Bigfoot®, and more. The trucks will light up the arena with outrageous monster truck competitions and battles. Event performances will also feature a dance party, laser light shows, and Hot Wheels toy giveaways, as well as a special appearance from the car-eating, fire-breathing transforming robot Megasaurus, and the electrifying high-flyers of Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live, Freestyle Motocross. Tickets start at $20. VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena / 300 A. Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / hotwheelsmonstertruckslive.com

MOCA Fall Family Day 2023

September 2, 11am to 5pm

MOCA Fall Family Day is free for the whole family to come downtown for some creative time together. Join the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, Girls Scouts of Gateway Council, Hello Mr. Joe, Jacksonville Children's Choir, Pine Forest School of the Arts, Setlan Coffee Co., and more. Free. Street parking is free all day Saturday and Sunday. MOCA Jacksonville / 904-366-6911 / 333 N Laura Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / mocajacksonville.unf.edu

Movies in the Park – Palm Coast

September 8, 7:50pm

The City of Palm Coast's Parks and Recreation Department hosts Movies in the Park on the second Friday of the month through October. Be sure to bring your blanket, lawn chairs, bug spray, and picnic baskets. Registration is not required. Central Park / 386-986-2360 / 975 Central Ave, Palm Coast, FL 32164 / palmcoast.gov

Paint a Pokémon Youth Artist Event

September 9, 10am to 12noon

Mythical Mountain hosts a Paint a Pokémon Youth Artist Event for ages 6 to 18. Participants will explore various art techniques and mediums. There will be a special shopping time from 10am to 10:30am, and the workshop begins at 10:30am. Cost is $25 per guest. This is not a drop-off event; young artists should have a parent/guardian with them at all times. Mythical Mountain / 904-6801308 / 11111 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / mythicalmountain.com

Painting With Grandparents

September 10, 1pm to 3pm

Enjoy a casual painting event with a grandparent on a special day to celebrate them. Participants will be directed through a themed painting. While painting, participants will bring food and drinks to have during the event. The event is open to adults and children 10 and up. Register in advance as space is limited. Cost is $25 per person. Solomon Calhoun Center / 904-209-0379 / 1300 Duval Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.sjcfl.us

Bullying & Cyberbullying: Awareness...Recognition...Prevention • September 12, 6pm to 7pm

Educate yourself on the signs of bullying and cyberbullying, associated behaviors, and strategies for talking to your child(ren) about them. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a free family resource that promotes parental involvement, enhances student achievement, and supports a caregiver's need for personal and individual growth. Parent Academy courses are offered

virtually through Microsoft Teams. Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / dcps.duvalschools.org

Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Gwinnett Stripers • September 12-16

The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp take on the Gwinnett Stripers. Single game tickets start at $7, with multi-game and group packages available. Section 108 F-Q is a designated Family Section, with no alcohol allowed.

September 12, 7:05pm – Community First Credit Union Two for Tuesday // Childhood Cancer Awareness Night

September 13, 7:05pm – VyStar BOGO Tickets // Good Is Everywhere Wednesdays

September 14, 7:05pm – Military Jersey Auction // Military Appreciation Night

September 15, 7:05pm – Red Shirt Friday – fans who wear red save $1 on a ticket at the box office // Friday Night Fireworks

September 16, 5:05pm – Doubleheader // Fan Appreciation Day // Fan Appreciation Night Fireworks

121 Financial Ballpark / 904-358-2846 / 301 A. Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxshrimp.com

Ancient City Con 2023

September 15, 1pm to 8pm; September 16, 11am to 8pm; September 17, 12noon to 6pm

Ancient City Con returns to World Golf Village. There will be celebrity guests, activities, and experiences for attendees of all ages, including meet and greets with celebrities, cosplay and costume contests, props and replicas, console games, tabletop and board gaming, exhibitors hall, artist alley, and more. Tickets start at $23.

World Golf Village Renaissance St. Augustine Resort / 500 S Legacy Trail, St. Augustine, FL 32092 / www.ancientcitycon.com

2nd Annual Kidpreneur Market at Legacy Ale Works • September 16, 3pm to 6pm Legacy Ale Works hosts its 2nd annual Kidpreneur Market. Kids who are little bakers or makers are invited to participate in the market. The event will be held indoors. Sign up online to participate. Legacy Ale Works / 904-683-4345 / 14965 Old St. Augustine Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32258 / www.legacyaleworks.com

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial

September 22-23, 7pm to 10pm

Steven Spielberg’s heartwarming masterpiece will be projected on a huge HD screen while John Williams’ Academy Award®-winning score is performed live by a full symphony orchestra in sync to the film. Tickets start at $32. Jacoby Symphony Hall / 904-354-5547 / 300 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxsymphony.org

The Animation Academy at MOSH

September 23 thru February 12

The Animation Academy (previously named “Get Animated”) explores the unique world of animation and storytelling, from traditional hand-drawn cels to exciting breakthroughs in stop-motion and CGI. Stage Nine Exhibitions proudly welcomes involvement from major U.S. animation studios. Visitors can create their own stop-motion animated short, learn about the art of storyboarding, go behind the scenes with artists and animators, and enjoy America’s largest 3D zoetrope. Each display

and interactive activity features the participation of industry leaders, from original hand-drawn cels to real stop-motion maquettes. The exhibit is included with general admission. Museum of Science and History / 904-396-6674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org

Jacksonville Home and Patio Show

September 29, 10am to 8pm; September 30, 10am to 8pm; October 1, 10am to 6pm

The Jacksonville Home and Patio Show features exhibitors, vendors, workshops, and more. The show features celebrity Craig Conover from Bravo’s hit reality series, Southern Charm. Craig will appear on the Fresh Ideas Stage Friday, September 29th at 3pm and Saturday, September 30th at 12noon. There will also be a Food Truck Rally, Pickleball Clinic, a blood drive, a Home Depot Kids Workshop on Friday, September 29th and Saturday, September 30th from 11am to 6pm and Sunday, October 1st from 11am to 5pm while supplies last, and more. Show tickets are $12 for ages 13 and up, $5 for kids 6 to 12, and free for 5 and under. Save $2 by purchasing your tickets online in advance.

Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center / 904-6304804 / 1000 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.jacksonvillefallhomeshow.com

City of Atlantic Beach Fall Festival

September 30, 10am to 1pm

The City of Atlantic Beach hosts a Fall Festival. Celebrate the beginning of the fall season with activities, games, music, and more. Free and open to the community.

Donner Park / 904-247-5828 / 2072 George Street, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 / www.coab.us

Brew & BBQ at JWJ Park

September 30, 4pm to 10pm

The Bluegrass, Beer, and Barbecue event is now Brew & BBQ. The event will continue to feature barbecue-themed food trucks, a wide range of vendors, and live music. This year’s lineup includes experimental funk soloist, Soliloquy; local jam-fusion luminaries, the Parker Urban Band; and Jacksonville’s own psychedelic bluegrass festival favorites, The Firewater Tent Revival. The concert is presented by Friends of James Weldon Johnson Park, is family-friendly, and is free to attend. Limited seating will be available at this event; however, you are welcome to bring your own chair. Dogs are welcome. James Weldon Johnson Park / 904515-5098 / 135 W Monroe Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / jamesweldonjohnsonpark.org

Wesley Wells Farms Pumpkin Festival

September 30, 9am to 5pm

Wesley Wells Farms hosts its annual Pumpkin Festival. The fields will be open for Pick-Your-Ownpumpkins right off the vine. There will also be baked goods, local food trucks, a sunflower field, fall activities, you-pick and we-pick produce, farm animals, photo opportunities, local vendors, and more. Tickets at the gate are $10 per person for ages 24 months and up. Wesley Wells Farms / 904-679-5660 / 2680 Ada Arnold Rd, St. Augustine, FL 32092 / www.wesleywellsfarm.com

EDITOR’S NOTE: Dates, times and locations are accurate at time of publication; events and activities listed in this guide are subject to change without notice. Visit Jax4Kids. com for updated information and more events!

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