Parent Magazine St Johns - April 2022

S T

J O H N S

THE CAMP ISSUE

FIRST CAMPOUT WITH YOUR FAMILY: MAKE IT A WINNER

FAMILY CAMP: A GREAT ALTERNATIVE TO TRADITIONAL SUMMER CAMPS

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO TEEN TOURS

SUMMER CAMPS WITH FLAIR

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APRIL 2022

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J O H N S

APRIL 2022

CONTENT

features 06

SUMMER CAMPS WITH FLAIR

10

10

FAMILY CAMP: A GREAT ALTERNATIVE TO TRADITIONAL SUMMER CAMPS

in each issue

12

FOUR SMALL WAYS TO BUILD CONFIDENCE IN KIDS: FROM PLAY TO CHORES, ENCOURAGE EFFORT AND HELP KIDS ACQUIRE SKILLS

14

QUESTIONS TO ASK SLEEPAWAY CAMP DIRECTORS

03

FROM THE EDITOR

04

ST. JOHNS SUPERINTENDENT’S LETTER

17

HEALTH CORNER

CAMP OF ABILITIES

24

18

BOOK NOOK

22

FIRST CAMPOUT WITH YOUR FAMILY: MAKE IT A WINNER

“

Family camp is a great way to

26

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO TEEN TOURS

28

2022 ALL COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL ART SHOW WINNERS

strengthen your bonds not just with your own immediate family but also with your extended family” Page 10

2 | ST JOHNS PARENT M A G A Z I N E

FROM THE EDITOR Camps hold such a pivotal place in children’s lives. Kids can learn an instrument, a language, archery, swimming and communication skills, and they can gain valuable friendships. As hard as it is to let them go, camp can provide a fantastic experience for your children.

In this issue, we explore how to choose a camp. We give you guidance on questions to ask a camp before sending your child away for a week or more. We also have a great article on how to build confidence in kids. Be sure to check out the book nook with books on camps and the health corner for great information on summer safety.

Our camp listing is under directories on our website. Check it out for options for your child.

Notable days in April: 4/4 National School Librarian Day – Thank one of the people who are helping your kids learn to love books!

4/10 National Siblings Day - Join our photo contest at www.parentmagazinesflorida.com and send in pictures of the siblings in your family having fun or showing love to each other. The winner will receive passes to a local attraction.

4/14 National Moment of Laughter Day – tell a joke, make a funny skit or share something that your family finds hysterical and share a moment together.

Parent Magazine is published by TouchPoint Innovative Solutions.

PUBLISHER Howard M. Holley Sr. EDITOR Dr. Barbara C. Holley MANAGING EDITOR Jeanne Coates ART DIRECTOR Leslie Proctor SALES AND MARKETING DIRECTOR Jeanne Coates EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD Jennifer Farrow • Parent Volunteer Christina Langston • St. Johns School District Vikki Mioduszewski • Wolfson Children’s Hospital Danielle Taylor • St Johns School District Erin Wallner • Flagler Health+ INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING? If you would like to advertise in Parent Magazine, please call 386.449.8353 or email us at jeanne@touchpointis.com IDEAS FOR ARTICLES? Send your article ideas or provide feedback to barbara@touchpointis.com

4/18 National Haiku Day – Teach your children about the haiku and have them compose one. Share it with us on our website for the chance to have it published in a future issue of a Parent Magazines Florida publication (and you may get a prize for your family).

4/30 National Sculpture Day - Get out that modeling clay and let your child create, or go online and look at some of the famous sculptures from the past. If your child does create a masterpiece, share it with us in the contest section of our website. We will have public voting and the CONTACT US winner will receive a prize. www.ParentMagazinesFlorida.com DR. BARBARA C. HOLLEY EDITOR, PARENT MAGAZINES

389 Palm Coast Pkwy SW, Suite 3 Palm Coast FL 32137 All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without the express written consent of the publisher.

TouchPoint Innovative Solutions assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions.

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Information contained in these materials are neither sponsored or endorsed by the School Board of St. Johns County, its agents or its employees.

APRIL 2022 | 3

St. Johns County School District

By Tim Forson, Superintendent of Schools

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he mission of the St. Johns County School District will “inspire good character and a passion for lifelong leaning in all students, creating educated and caring contributors to the world.” This time of the year is filled with celebrations as we begin to see the outcome of hard work and dedication reflected in the lives of our students, faculty and staff.

As an organization, we are proud to honor students for their high academic achievements, but we also take time to recognize and celebrate students displaying good character. This year more than 100 students will be recognized for their exemplary character at the annual American Youth Character Awards (AYCA) Banquet on April 21. Criteria for the AYCA is based on the Six Pillars of Character: Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring and Citizenship. These awards recognize students for serving as good role models for their peers. Nominees are evaluated based on the influence of the Six Pillars in their lives, especially as they relate to overcoming obstacles, making difficult choices, generosity, self-sacrifice and community service. All honorees will receive a certificate, pin and school letter. In addition, seniors will receive a $500 award in recognition of their excellent character. Eight additional seniors and one junior will also be honored as Pursuing Victory With Honor nominees for displaying the Six Pillars of Character on the athletic field. The overall winner will be awarded $1,000. I want to congratulate all students on their achievements as well as their families, mentors and community that support these students throughout their high school careers.

April is National Volunteer Month, affording us a chance to step back and look at the many ways individuals have selflessly supported the SJCSD. During the very challenging times that we have experienced with COVID-19, volunteering has taken on a different look. Volunteers who have been in schools abided by health and safety guidelines and sometimes did work at home that would have historically been done in schools.

School support groups such as PTO and booster clubs continued to do what was necessary but in a safe and different fashion. Although the world changed drastically, volunteers found safe ways to meet student and school needs in surprisingly creative ways. The resolve of our volunteers to continue making a difference only grew stronger during this time, and we want to thank them for “never saying never.” As we go forward in a cautiously optimistic future, it is certain that volunteers will always be needed and appreciated. If you would like to explore ways to assist in St. Johns County schools, please contact Cheryl Freeman, RSVP/Volunteer Services Coordinator at (904) 547-3952 or Cheryl.Freeman@stjohns.k12.fl.us.

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St Johns Graduation Schedule

2022

Tuesday, May 24 7 p.m.

Pedro Menendez High School St. Augustine Amphitheatre (SAA)

Saturday, May 28 4 p.m.

Creekside High School University of North Florida (UNF)

Wednesday, May 25 5 p.m.

St. Johns Virtual School St. Augustine HS (SAHS) Auditorium

Tuesday, May 31 7 p.m.

Bartram Trail High School UNF

Thursday, May 26 7 p.m.

St. Augustine High School St. Augustine Amphitheatre (SAA)

Wednesday, June 1 7 p.m.

Allen D. Nease High School UNF

Friday, May 27 7 p.m.

St. Johns Technical High School SAHS Auditorium

Thursday, July 7 4 p.m.

First Coast Technical College FCTC, Bldg. C, CC! Conference Center 6 p.m.

Saturday, May 28 9 a.m.

Ponte Vedra High School University of North Florida (UNF)

APRIL 2022 | 5

6 | ST JOHNS PARENT M A G A Z I N E

Summer Camps With Flair

By Jan Pierce, M.Ed

M

ost of us remember summer camp. It was great: Rustic cabins, swimming in the lake, arts and crafts, songs around a campfire and capture the flag in the evenings. It still sounds good to me.

But times have changed and lots of kids are more excited to plan a summer adventure around performance academies than attend a traditional summer camp. There are lots of options, and while they are not inexpensive, they do offer wonderful opportunities for your kids. They can be week-long overnight experiences or day camps only.

Here are some of the possibilities. Check your local area for availability.

Dance and Theater Camps: Dance and theater camps will focus every day on training classes and rehearsals with an eye to a final performance at the end of the camp. Theater offerings may include improvisation, comedy, costume and set design, prop building, sound mixing, filmmaking, musical theater or stage makeup.

Many theater camps offer two- or three-week options to maximize the quality of the final performances. Dance camps may begin their day programs with children as young as two years and offer ballet, tap and jazz, hiphop and modern dance courses ranging in difficulty from beginners to advanced courses. Again, a performance at the end of the course of study is usually the highlight of the camp.

available, from rock and roll to classical. Music camps are great for honing skills or trying something brand new.

Clown/Circus Camps: Get ready for some fun at circus or clown camps. Kids learn such skills as plate-spinning, balloon-twisting, stilt-walking, scarf juggling or riding a unicycle. Or they can learn to be a clown as they create costumes, learn to apply clown makeup and learn the gags and slapstick antics of being a clown. Final performances are the norm here as well.

Art Camps: There are lots of opportunities for kids to delve into art and art-related projects in summer art camps. Many of these are local and offer day courses for children aged five and up. Others are destination camps that integrate art activities with traditional summer camp experiences. Abrakadoodles camps offer process

Music Camps: For children interested in advancing their musical skills or for those who just love to sing, there are tons of music camp options. Children may take private lessons from skilled teachers or learn to sing or play in ensembles. They can study band instruments, orchestra instruments or focus on just piano or violin. There are classes in music theory, sight-reading, songwriting or voice. A wide variety of musical experiences are

APRIL 2022 | 7

another country while at camp. Native speakers will lead the activities as kids learn to sing songs, create skits and play games, all designed to deepen their experience in a foreign language. Many language camps end with a special performance or celebration highlighting the learning accomplished.

Adventure Camps: No time for boredom in these summer camps. Everything from backpacking to rock climbing, wilderness treks to survival hikes, scuba diving to whitewater rafting. What’s your pleasure? Take a look at www.adventurecamp.com.

Dude Ranches and Horse Camps: Your child will leave city life behind when attending a summer horse camp.

Courses on animal care, roping, riding and vaulting will be given along with extended time to build a relationship with a horse, ride and care for it, and experience some of what it’s like to live on and run a ranch. Leadership, nature-based arts and crafts and swimming might round out the offerings.

art experiences in which the focus is on what is learned as a piece of art is produced. There may be themebased art camps as well as a wide variety of art training in such skills as drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics and clay sculpture or origami.

Science/Technology Camps: STEM courses are all the rage today, and well, they should be in this age of technology. Courses in programming, coding, robotics, modeling/animation, video game design and team problem-solving will be available. Often STEM camps are designed around themes such as Minecraft, Legos or Star Wars and offer group challenges. The camps may be offered by your local children’s museums or science centers. Courses in marine science or biological studies may incorporate laboratory experiments, while engineering courses may emphasize inventions. Science, technology, engineering and math—get your kids in on the fun.

Foreign Language Camps: If you aren’t taking a trip out of the country this summer, you might want your kids to have the benefit of a language summer camp. They’ll be immersed in the language, cuisine and culture of 8 | ST JOHNS PARENT M A G A Z I N E

Sports Camps: We’re familiar with camps to improve skills in basic sports such as baseball, basketball, football and soccer. But there are many other choices. How about gymnastics, archery, water-skiing, horseback riding, tennis, crew, field hockey, volleyball or water polo? This might be an opportunity to try a whole new sporting experience and find a sport to enjoy for life.

Check out www.ussportscamps.com.

Miscellaneous Camps: It’s hard to categorize some of the camping experiences available to kids today. How about Social Skills camp, D.J. camp, Extreme Sports camps, Wizards and Warriors Role Playing camp or Rock and Roll Camp?

If you’re serious about planning a performance summer camp experience for your kids, do your research early.

These camps tend to fill up early, and there are specials on the costs if you apply early.

Here are a few websites to help you with your summer camp research: • www.kidscamps.com • www.summercamps.com • www.mysummercamps.com

Creamy Frozen Fruit Cups This is an easy recipe that even the little ones can help with. Delicious side with any meal!

Ingredients

• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened • 1/2 cup sugar

• 1 jar (10 ounces) maraschino cherries, drained • 1 can (11 ounces) mandarin oranges, drained • 1 can (8 ounces) crushed pineapple, drained • 1/2 cup chopped pecans

• 1 carton (8 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed • Fresh mint, optional

Directions 1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until fluffy. Halve 9 cherries; chop the remaining cherries. Set aside halved cherries and 18 orange segments for garnish. Add the pineapple, pecans and chopped cherries to cream cheese mixture. Fold in whipped topping and remaining oranges.

2. Line muffin cups with paper or foil liners. Spoon fruit mixture into cups; garnish with reserved cherries and oranges. Freeze until firm. Remove from the freezer 10 minutes before serving. Top with mint if desired.

From Taste of Home https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/creamy-frozen-fruit-cups/

APRIL 2022 | 9

Family Camp:

A Great Alternative To Traditional Summer Camps

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By Tanni Haas, Ph.D.

hen most parents hear the words “summer camp,” they think of the place their kids are literally desperate to go to after a long, exhausting year at school. But summer camp isn’t just for kids. More and more families are choosing to spend part of their summer at “family camps” for the whole family. So, what’s family camp and why should you consider it as an alternative to a traditional summer camp?

Like traditional summer camps, family camps are places where you: (1) stay for a period of time, (2) participate in different activities and (3) sleep in cabins and tents. There are all kinds of family camps, ranging from ones focusing on arts and crafts and sports to outdoor activities like hiking, cycling or canoeing. Unlike traditional summer camps, you do it together as a family.

10 | ST JOHNS PARENT M A G A Z I N E

There are several reasons why you might consider signing up for a family camp this summer: It’s a great way for you and your kids to share experiences in a completely different, more fun and relaxing way than you usually do. We’re all so busy these days, with long days at the office and school bags full of homework. Even on weekends, we don’t get to spend a lot of time together, with the kids doing extracurricular activities and even more homework.

Family camp is a great way to wake up together to a day of fun activities and no tight schedules, worries or distractions.

Most family camps have a no-electronic-device policy,

a good thing since technology is one of the biggest distractions to being together. Once the kids realize that there’s no opportunity to text or go online, and you can’t access your work e-mail, you start to focus on enjoying each other’s company.

Family camp is a great way to strengthen your bonds not just with your own immediate family but also with your extended family - grandparents, uncles and aunts, and cousins. Plan your family vacation together as a group. Think about the best time for all of your to go away, talk about the kinds of activities that you all would enjoy, and then look for a family camp that you can all afford and get to without too much trouble.

If it’s not possible to get your extended family to join you, family camp is a great way to meet and develop relationships with like-minded parents. Although many of the activities are geared towards the whole family, there are times when you can engage in more adult activities with other parents, like enjoying a glass of wine together.

Most parents are used to their kids coming back from summer camp telling them about all the exciting things they did, funny things that happened, and wonderful friends they made. Wouldn’t it be great if this summer you made all those memories together instead of just hearing about them after the fact?

The American Camp Association’s “Find a Camp” database (see http://find.acacamps.org/) lists more than 300 family camps, of which 230 are ACA-accredited. I’m sure you’ll find one that’s just right for your family.

A P R I L 2 0 2 2 | 11

Four Small Ways to Build Confidence in Kids

From play to chores, encourage effort and help kids acquire skills

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By Liz Greene

elf-confidence originates from a perception of competence — or, to put it more simply, children develop confidence not because family and friends praise them but because of their own accomplishments. As a preschool teacher, I watched many children become more confident and self-assured as they learned and completed new tasks and goals.

It’s only natural that, as parents, you want to instill confidence in your kids. Confident children believe in 12 | ST JOHNS PARENT M A G A Z I N E

themselves and are able to face new challenges without fear— essential factors for a happy and fulfilling life.

Make time for play Playtime is one of the best investments you can make in your child. The hours you spend playing with your children show them that they are valuable and worth your time.

Focus your attention on your child during play. Children

are perceptive and will know if your mind is elsewhere.

Dedicate yourself to the game that you and your child are playing. That shared imagination brings you closer together and lets your child know that you’re listening to them.

The life of a preschool teacher is a hectic one, and I often spent time multitasking. However, when it came to playtime, I gave the kids my full attention and jumped into their play with both feet. The bonds I shared with my students were often built during this important time together.

Provide them with small jobs Children need opportunities to display their skills and feel that their contribution is valued. At home, this means asking them to help with household chores such as:

• Help them get comfortable with their emotions by accepting them without judgment. By doing so, you validate those feelings and show that you value what they have to say.

• Share your own feelings to help them gain confidence in expressing their own.

Provide encouragement often Think about the last time someone acknowledged your hard work and told you they believed in you. That kind of encouragement not only gives adults the kind of confidence boost they need to keep going, but it also builds the best kind of confidence a child can have.

• Sweeping

There’s a big difference between encouragement and praise. One rewards the person while the other rewards the task. Praise can make a child feel that they’re only worthwhile if they do something flawlessly.

Encouragement, on the other hand, acknowledges the effort.

• Doing the dishes

For example, “This sandcastle is amazing!” vs. “You worked so hard on this sandcastle! Great job.”

• Setting the table • Tidying up toys • Dusting

• Vacuuming

• Sorting or folding laundry • Washing the car • Gardening

Consider your child’s interests and give them a job that lets them feel useful and successful. If your child is proud of their ability to organize, ask them to put toys away in designated areas. When a child accomplishes a task, they feel confident.

When tasks start to lose their fun appeal, work with your children. It helps them to learn that sometimes, work comes before play.

Too much praise can create pressure to perform and set up a constant need for approval from others. It’s better instead to give your child the message that the effort— and seeing something through to the end—is what’s truly important.

By setting your children up to succeed, providing them a generous amount of encouragement and spending quality time together, you can help them grow up feeling good about themselves and the world around them.

Give them your attention I can’t stress enough how important it is to make time to give your child your full attention. Much like playtime, it boosts your child’s feelings of self-worth by sending the message that you think they’re important and valuable.

Here are a few simple tips for building confidence while giving your kids your attention: • Make eye contact, so it’s clear that you’re really listening to what they’re saying.

• If your child needs to talk, stop and listen to what they have to say. They need to know that their thoughts, feelings and opinions matter.

A P R I L 2 0 2 2 | 13

14 | ST JOHNS PARENT M A G A Z I N E

Questions To Ask Sleepaway Camp Directors

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By Tanni Haas, Ph.D. ou’ve gone online, asked everyone you know for recommendations, and otherwise searched for sleepaway camps for your kids. How do

you find the one that’s just right for them? When you’ve narrowed down the options to a handful or less, it’s time to speak to the camp directors by phone or email. Below is a list of some of the most important

or more of their regular friends.

How much does it cost? You probably don’t need any reminders to ask about the camp fee. But don’t forget to ask whether that fee is all-inclusive or whether there are additional costs for day or overnight trips, transportation to and from camp, special activities,

questions to ask.

etc. Also, ask if there’s a refund policy should your kids

The Camp

case you missed the deadline, if there’s a waitlist. It’s

get sick, what the deadline is for registration and, in also a good idea to ask if financial aid or needs-based

Is the camp accredited, how old is it, and how long have you owned or managed it? It’s a good sign if the camp is licensed by the American Camp Association (ACA). To earn accreditation, a camp must satisfy 300 industry standards for health, safety and program quality. Every three years, the ACA visits the camp to verify that it’s in compliance. It’s also a good sign if

scholarships are available, perhaps a sibling discount, whether you need to pay everything up front, or whether you can pay in installments. Finally, don’t forget to get the camp’s Tax ID number. The camp fee can be tax-deductible.

The Program

the camp has been in existence for many years (kids are coming back year after year) and if the director is

How long are the sessions, can they be lengthened

experienced at running camps.

or shortened, and how long do most campers stay?

What’s your philosophy? Camps can be very different.

often two, four or eight weeks. However, if you

Some camps, especially ones focused on specific

have other things planned for the summer, it can be

sports, can be quite competitive. Other camps are

useful to either shorten or lengthen a session to fit

more aimed at instilling in kids certain values, like

your schedule. Most kids like to stay as long as the

comradery, cooperation and conflict-resolution. Make

other kids: assuming they’re having a great time, no

sure that the camp’s philosophy matches your own

kid wants to be the one getting picked up before

values and that it’s a good fit for your kids.

everyone else.

What’s the accommodation like? Ask whether the kids

What do the kids do on a typical day? Try to get a

sleep in cabins or tents, whether there are bathrooms

sense of what your kids will be doing on a typical day,

and showers nearby and, most importantly, whether

including how much time is devoted to indoor and

your kids can request to room with friends from home.

outdoor activities and what they’ll be doing in the

Whether your kids are first-time or seasoned campers,

evening. This will help you decide whether it’s the

it’s always comforting and great fun to room with one

right camp for them.

Most camps offer sessions of a specific length,

A P R I L 2 0 2 2 | 15

What’s your communication and visiting policy? It’s

Is there a medical facility with qualified personnel? A

always a good idea to find out how the camp prefers

high-quality camp will either have a licensed physician

that you communicate with your kids. By phone or

or nurse on the premises, a well-stocked supply of

email? How often? Also, ask how many care packages

commonly-used medications and procedures in place

you’re allowed/encouraged to send and whether there

for dispensing medication to all the kids who need

are designated visiting days.

them. Also, ask how far away is the closest hospital,

How do you accommodate special needs? A highquality camp is one where all the campers’ different needs are met. Ask how the staff accommodates

doctor’s office and dental clinic and how the kids will get there if needed.

The Campers

special needs with respect to activities, behavior, learning and dietary restrictions.

How many campers do you have, and how many of

The Staff

the camp, the more activities, and the smaller the

them return every year? Generally speaking, the larger camp, the more intimate it feels. Likewise, the higher

How do you hire, train and supervise your camp

the return rate, the more satisfied the kids are with the

counselors, and what’s the counselor-camper ratio?

whole camp experience.

One of the best signs that the camp is of a high quality is that it has strict procedures for hiring,

How can your kids stay in touch with their counselors

training and supervision of camp counselors. This

after camp has ended? Kids often develop strong

includes criminal background checks, first aid training

bonds with their counselors. Ask whether they’re

and regular feedback sessions. It’s also a good sign

encouraged to stay in touch after the camp has ended

if most of the counselors return for several summers

(who knows, your kids’ favorite counselor could end up

(they’re obviously enjoying the experience). The APA

being their babysitter). Some camps also host events

recommends that the counselor-camper ratio

throughout the year for counselors and campers. It’s a

be relatively low (between 1:6 and 1:12).

great way to keep in touch until next year’s camp.

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How to Handle Head Lice

By Ariana Abid, MD

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ou pick up your child from school and notice something crawling on top of his or her head.

The hairs on the back of your neck stand up, your heart starts beating fast, and you feel slightly itchy. Meet lice. These wingless parasites do not care who you are, what you do, and contrary to popular myth, how dirty your head is.

If you don’t see active crawling lice but have suspicions, examine the scalp closely with a bright light. Lice eggs or nits show up as a light yellow colored sphere (careful not to confuse with dandruff) attached at the base of the hair in areas behind the ears or at the base of the scalp. They will need to be removed to eliminate the presence of these creepy crawlers.

Should my child be taken out of school if he/she has active lice?

No. Affected children may return to school once treatment is initiated. However, it is a good idea to remind them to avoid direct head contact with others, which is the primary route of transmission.

What about swimming?

Lice can survive for hours underwater but cling tightly to the hair they call home, so risk for transmission in pools is low. As for the rest of the household during an infestation, wash and dry clothing and linens in hot water and high heat. Don’t forget to vacuum furniture and carpeting.

Treatment First-line medical treatment is topical Pyrethrins and Permethrin-containing shampoos, which can be purchased over the counter. In the case of resistant lice, stronger prescription shampoos containing Ivermectin can be used. These shampoos are generally safe and effective and at most cause a very mild itching or burning sensation in those with hypersensitivity. Of course, run any questions or concerns by your doctor in the event of reaction. Although a one-time treatment of the hair and scalp for 10 minutes is usually sufficient, the Center for Disease Control recommends repeating treatment after seven days to ensure eradication.

Removal of lice eggs can be performed at home with a fine-tooth comb or “lice comb” following treatment.

I recently learned of a more old-fashioned treatment that involves saturating the scalp and hair with olive oil for six to eight hours to suffocate the lice. A lice comb is then run throughout the hair and wiped off with a paper towel to extract lice and nits and repeated until no more appear on the comb. While this technique avoids a possible drug reaction, it is more time-consuming and can take about a week to fully complete.

Whatever method you use, do not be shy to talk to a trusted doctor, especially if initial treatment fails.

Lice are built to weather tough storms (this can be taken literally), yet the good news is that treatment is relatively easy and inexpensive. With knowing what to do and enlisting the proper tools, you’ll be able to keep that stress at least out of your hair.

A P R I L 2 0 2 2 | 17

Camp of Abilities

By Brianna Carter, @mamaknowsnada

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here’s nothing quite like the fun and freedom of the summer sun. And the best way to feel the warmth of the season’s vibes is to jump into a camp with friends. But which one to choose? With so many activities and opportunities, it can be challenging to choose an environment that fuses development with entertainment.

What about a camp where your kid, especially a teen, can build empathy, patience, creative problem-solving skills and better communication? Someplace where their impact would be incredible and so would the relationships they create. It’s not what you might think.

18 | ST JOHNS PARENT M A G A Z I N E

“The idea that someone with a disability can’t contribute anything of value is completely inaccurate,” says Joanne Alicea, CEO and founder of Ability Tree First Coast (ATFC), who is also a mom to a child with Down syndrome. Understanding how atypical peers navigate the world fosters camaraderie and empathy.

They’re interacting with people who have the same thoughts, emotions and desires, who may not be able to express or communicate them in traditional ways.

“We’re more alike than different. We all want to be valued,” Joanne notes. “A level of compassion grows when you see the value in a person.” She has been

running camps for individuals with disabilities for eight years. The organization supports people with disabilities and their families with activities, camps and parent’s night out. She has seen firsthand how all kids benefit from the interactions of their peers, with and without disabilities.

One such child is Patrice Barge, who is on the autism spectrum and has a diagnosis called Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). The condition causes tumors to grow on the nerves, and symptoms include light brown patches on the skin, freckles on the armpits or groin and skeletal abnormalities.

“Patrice either forms a bond or doesn’t; that’s her personality,” says mom, Polly, of her daughter. “But she always finds a coach to connect with. The high school kids always seem to find something in common with her.”

From the Volunteers Maryn Walker is a teen volunteer for ATFC. Admittedly, when she started, it was about the service hours. To her surprise, she gained more than a graduation checkbox.

“I didn’t realize that there was going to be a mutual benefit. I wasn’t sure that I’d be much of a help.

Starting out, I didn’t have any experience with helping at summer camps, nor did I fully understand how to handle the unexpected situations that often happened at this one. But I think you adapt quickly to expect the unexpected because we cannot predict how any of the kids’ days are going,” Maryn recalls of her experience.

bonds that could blossom. You can get along and have a conversation with anyone if you try; it doesn’t matter their background or ability level, Gracie shares.

Fostering connections does come with a learning curve. “Receptive versus expressive communication is a thing,” acknowledges Gracie. “You learn they’re not being rude; they’re communicating in their way.”

Yet, it’s her greatest joy to be a light for others. “It’s the greatest volunteer opportunity I’ve ever had, which is why I’ve done it for so long,” Gracie says.

Jessica Osiadacz, V.P. of Girl Experience for Girl Scouts of Gateway, echoes these sentiments. She has watched young ladies host Smile Camp, seeing firsthand how campers and counselors flourish.

“After volunteering at Smile Camp, they [girl scouts] have the capacity to help make spaces more inclusive and affirming for youth with disabilities,” says Jessica. “They also have the opportunity to build their leadership skills, including communication, collaboration, creativity, flexibility and conflict resolution.”

Smile Camp is organized by rising 9th through 12th grader counselors who are supported by alumni counselors. Each scout is paired with a camper for the week so the pair can form a bond and increase comfort in communication, play and collaboration.

How is inclusion helpful?

She has continued to volunteer because of the sense of community as well as the passion behind strengthening relationships between peer groups of differing abilities. Maryn adds, “It’s also very educational and spreads information about things we don’t typically learn in school.”

When a person with a disability is engaging with peers who are modeling socially appropriate behavior, like what’s acceptable behavior in class or church or on the playground, their peers with disabilities are taking notes. “Depending on the diagnosis,” notes Joanne, “social cues can be lacking for a person with a disability. It’s helpful to have those cues modeled by peers.”

Maryn isn’t alone in her appreciation and surprised personal growth. Gracie West has been working with ATFC for five years. Growing up with a friend on the autism spectrum, Gracie was aware of the exceptional

And keep the expectations high. “Differently abled individuals will rise to the occasion,” Joanne encourages. “They want to be accepted and adhere to such standards.”

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Such mentorship is pivotal for Patrice, who can have outbursts. Her doctors have even recommended it, if just for recreational activities like art and reading.

“Eventually she will look deformed, so it’s important that she’s accepted now,” explains Polly. “That’s why inclusion is important, so she can feel like part of a family.” Such engagement and acceptance is what helps to soothe her in emotional moments, Polly shares.

Jessica notes that environments like Smile Camp promote communication development and interpersonal skills.

“Positive experiences in diverse environments build an appreciation and respect for these differences,” she states.

That unique perspective encompasses needs around sensory, tactical and physical requirements to be accessible for a spectrum of abilities. It’s a collaborative process. If you have questions about needs, just ask the experts—the person with the disability! Joanne recommends involving them in the conversation instead of speaking for them.

Interactions May Be Closer Than You Think

While a person with a disability may learn standards and strengthen communication skills, peers without disabilities are learning creative strategies for inclusive environments and communication as well as empathy.

Nearly 8,000 students in St. Johns County schools have a disability. Volusia County has 13,000 students in their ESE program with 9,000 students with identified disabilities, and Flagler schools are home to about 2,500 kids enrolled in their entire ESE program.

Even if children aren’t in the same classes or schools, the likelihood of peers interacting with individuals with disabilities is highly likely.

“When a person is engaging with an individual with disabilities, perspectives shift. You can’t interact with a person with disabilities without starting to see the world differently,” explains Joanne. “You begin to value who the person is, without emphasis on what they can or cannot do. They still have feelings. They may not be expressive, but they are receiving the information.”

Dynamic growth opportunities for all individuals bloom when the perspective is shifted. A broader lens opens the pathway for fresh insights. Camps are a safe space for trying new things and engaging with unknown individuals. They are a way to plant the seed for fun and friendship, all while sharpening leadership skills that last a lifetime.

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Peeps Race Cars

Quick and easy craft and treat for you to make!

Supplies: • Twinkies

• Chocolate or yogurt covered pretzels • Peeps

• Oreos or round cookie or candy

• Candy melt or icing to use as glue • Other candies for decoration

Directions Unwrap your supplies. Cut out a notch on your Twinkie for your peep and pretzel steering wheel. Place your peep and steering wheel in the notch. Use Oreos to make wheels. Decorate your car with other candy.

If your child is like mine, don’t be afraid to let them make a peep egg into an alien with sour patch straw antennae or go their own direction.

Dinosaurs driving cars? Sure! Great discussion on what you can use and how you can make one!

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First Campout With Your Family: Make It a Winner

By Jan Pierce

I

f your family has a long history of camping and is totally outdoor-savvy, then you need read no further.

But if your children haven’t been camping before and you’d like to take them, there are some important points to take into consideration.

Much as we would like it to be otherwise, many of our children have become indoor creatures. They don’t play outside unless they’re playing an organized sport. It seems that old-fashioned playing is a bit of a dinosaur these days. The indoor trend could be the result of technology. All of our computers, video games and other screened entertainments occupy children without challenging them to physical activity.

So there we are, with children unused to the outdoors. That said, there are so many good reasons to get out into nature; learning about the

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flora and fauna of an area, relaxing in the company of family and friends and building healthier bodies and minds. It’s a great thing to do.

As you begin to think about a camping trip, you’ll want to ask:

Where?

A first-time venture probably should be relatively close to home and shouldn’t be overly challenging in terms of comfort and endurance. Perhaps it would be best to choose a place with bathrooms and showers and maybe even a children’s play area. After all, you want the children to have a good time, and a Spartan trip, especially if the weather doesn’t cooperate, will only ensure that it’s the last trip for your children. When you’ve found a suitable place, be sure to include some bona fide camping experiences such as day hikes, fishing, boating and the traditional evening campfire.

When?

Reservations usually have to be made at campgrounds a year ahead of time. Often, in addition to the nightly fees, you’ll have to pay an additional campground entrance fee. Be sure to arrive at the campground area as early in the day as possible. It’s no fun trying to set up camp in the dark!

What to do?

Taking some time to plan for this first camping adventure will pay dividends.

First of all, plan activities for the drive. A small game to play in the car or games such as “find the license plate” will keep children occupied during the drive and avoid the “Are we there yets?” Plan quick and easy meals and include disposable plates and cups, etc. If you really want to be more “green,” then make the cooking and cleanup, including washing up dishes, part of the fun.

Perhaps there could be partners, one adult and one child responsible for each meal. Remember how much fun the evening campfires can be with songs, stories and special treats, like s’mores. Some of the larger campgrounds have park rangers who will lead daytime activities or have evening slideshows and talks. Be prepared if the weather turns bad. Simple raingear can be a lifesaver as well as games and activities to do inside the tent if necessary.

Enjoy When you’ve done all your planning, be sure to take along plenty of enthusiasm. Children will pick up on the fun if you are eager and ready to have fun too.

Be creative—maybe you’ll see some wildlife, catch a trout or spot a certain bird or butterfly. Once again, knowing your children’s hobbies and interests may help you to plan things they will be sure to enjoy. This is also a great time to share your areas of expertise. Do you know all about wildflowers or can you teach the children how to paddle a canoe?

Now you’re all set. Be sure to take along a camera to document all the fun. Kids are certain to enjoy the camping event and all the stories and memories of their first camping experience.

Quick and Easy Meals for Campers English Muffin Pizzas: Use English muffins, squeezable pizza sauce and shredded mozzarella. Toast muffin halves on oiled grill.

Turn over and spread with sauce, cheese and any toppings your family enjoys. Serve when the cheese melts.

Grilled PBJ: This one is a cinch. Choose a hearty bread and be generous with the fillings.

Butter on both sides and toast on your grill.

They’ll stick to your ribs.

Coffee Can Stew: Cut stew meat into small pieces. Place meat in a clean coffee can with 2T butter. Brown meat over the fire. Add red potatoes, baby carrots and onions with 2T more butter. Cover with foil and place in the fire for 20 minutes.

Banana Boats: Slit unpeeled bananas lengthwise without cutting through. Fill the opening with mini-marshmallows and chocolate chips. Sprinkle with brown sugar, wrap in foil and place either on a grill or in the coals of your fire. They’re ready in just seven minutes.

Eggs in a Hat: You may want a change from morning cereal or pancakes. Try this fun recipe.

Grease a hot griddle. Cut a hole in pieces of bread using a cup or glass. Toast the bread on both sides and crack an egg in the hole. When the egg is solid, flip the bread. Top with a slice of your favorite cheese and a slice of ham.

Serve when cheese is nicely melted.

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Welcome to the

Book Nook!

Brought to you by Bookelicious.com

Summer camps have a long tradition in the United States and are only growing in popularity as parents work year-round while the majority of schools maintain a schedule incorporating a long summer break. Local day-camp options abound, making it easier and more affordable for more parents to keep kids active, learning and having fun during break. While more expensive and not for every family, sleepover camps remain popular too and offer the opportunity for kids to explore new environments, learn new skills and make new friends all independently and away from their routines at home. Memories made at camp often endure and so it should be no surprise that a “summer camp” search for books on Bookelicious results in a long list of choices for all ages. Here are some of our favorites:

Swim, Mo, Swim! (Mo Jackson #5)

by David A. Adler (Author) Sam Ricks (Illustrator) Reading Level: K − 1st Grade Series: Mo Jackson Mo is going swimming in the fifth title of the perennially popular, Geisel Award-winning Level 2 readers series by David A. Adler!

It’s Field Day at summer camp and Mo’s group, the Guppies, is competing for extra ice cream! He and his friends are doing their best at everything from the three-legged race to the potato sack race, and as the day nears its end, each group has won one medal each. It’s all on Mo to break the tie in the final event: swimming!

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Moon Camp

Reading Level: K − 1st Grade What if summer camp was in outer space?

by Barry Gott (Author) Summer is here! But Jake doesn’t want to go to summer camp.

Even if camp is on the moon. Sure enough, he gets lost during the nature hike, his air canoe springs a leak, there are scary noises at night and he’s pretty sure he’s allergic to moon dust. The worst part? He misses home.

But then Sam arrives and maybe Moon Camp isn’t so bad after all? Full of out-of-this-world humor, Moon Camp is a celebration of new adventures and the unexpected friends you make along the way.

Wildlife According to Og the Frog (Og the Frog #3)

by Betty G. Birney (Author) Reading Level: 2nd − 3rd Grade Series: Og the Frog In the third book in the spinoff of the Humphrey series, Og and Humphrey head to summer camp to see what’s hopping in the wilderness!

Og didn’t know where he would end up when school was over, but it turns out Camp Happy Hollow is just about the best place ever.

Lovely nature is all around, friends from Room 26 are there--including Humphrey!--and camp days are full of exciting activities. Og has lots of new responsibilities, like watching out for Humphrey, helping his fellow campers adjust to being away from home, and encouraging everyone to always try their best. But when one camper lets Og loose at the lake, he is in a tough spot. The lake sure does feel like home, but so does his tank. Plus his human friends need him--and so does Humphrey. Good thing Og has experience in the wild because--BINGBANG-BOING!--this is going to be one hopping summer!

Og’s frog’s-eye view of summer camp is silly, caring, and adventurous--the perfect companion to Summer According to Humphrey.

Long Distance

by Whitney Gardner (Author) Whitney Gardner (Illustrator) Reading Level: 4th – 5th Grade From the creator of Fake Blood comes another exceptionally charming middle-grade graphic novel about friendships both near and far, far away.

Vega’s summer vacation is not going well. When her parents decide it’s time to pack up and leave her hometown of Portland, Oregon, behind for boring Seattle, Washington, Vega is more than upset--she’s downright miserable. Forced to leave her one and only best friend, Halley, behind, Vega is convinced she’ll never make another friend again. To help her settle into her new life in Seattle, her parents send Vega off to summer camp to make new friends. Except Vega is determined to get her old life back. But when her cellphone unexpectedly calls it quits and things at camp start getting stranger

and stranger, Vega has no choice but to team up with her bunkmates to figure out what’s going on!

Out of My Heart (Out of My Mind #2)

By Sharon M. Draper (Author) Reading Level: 4th – 5th Grade Series: Out of My Mind Melody faces her fears to follow her passion in this stunning sequel to the acclaimed, New York Times bestselling middle-grade novel Out of My Mind.

Melody, the huge-hearted heroine of Out of My Mind, is now a year older and a year braver. But not as brave as she wants to be, as she’s terrified of horses. Even though she loves horses--loves loves loves them--from afar. Not one to be thwarted, Melody decides summer camp, one with horseback riding, should be her next challenge. Except, are there even riding camps for differently-abled kids?

Ones that would welcome a kid with cerebral palsy? She’s going to find out.

Camp Average (Camp Average #1)

by Craig Battle (Author) Reading Level: 4th – 5th Grade Series: Camp Average

A group of 11-year-olds arrives to spend six weeks playing sports at Camp Avalon--which they affectionately call Camp Average because they never win at any sport. And that’s the way they like it. But this summer, new camp director Winston--who hates losing--has some hyper-competitive ideas about how to improve their performance, whether they want to or not!

Led by main character Mack and his friend Andre, the boys of Cabin 10 decide to reclaim their summer and revolt by losing spectacularly at every game they play, and especially at the big baseball tournament coming up with three nearby camps. In a story full of plotting, planning and plenty of push-ups, it’s a full-court press on losing for the campers, strategic play-by-play for the camp director, and great teamwork on all sides. Who will come out on top? The first book in the new Camp Average series is a smart, funny summer read featuring a diverse group of realistic characters and a winning storyline.

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The Ultimate Guide to Teen Tours

C

By Cheryl Maguire

an I go to California?”

When my soon-to-be 14-year-old daughter asked me this question, my initial response was, “There is no way you are going to California, especially without me.”

“

And then I saw the cost of the trip, which only solidified my sentiment.

The public school she attends teamed up with a travel tour company to offer a week-long educational trip to California for students who applied. The trip is not 26 | ST JOHNS PARENT M A G A Z I N E

considered a school trip since it will be during April vacation, but teachers will be participating along with the travel guides from the tour company.

“Didn’t you go on a similar trip when you were her age?” My husband, the voice of reason, pointed out the fact that I did indeed travel to the west coast at the age of 14, except instead of a week, I traveled for three weeks. I went with a private “teen tour” company over the summer.

I loved my teen tour experience. It enabled me to

see national parks and historical sites that I probably wouldn’t have visited otherwise, which is why I changed my mind and I’m allowing her to go.

What is a teen tour?

A teen tour is when a group of teens travels with adult leaders to specific locations. These tours are usually private companies but sometimes pair up with public schools. Some tours are also run through religious organizations. The trips can be domestic or international and can be community service-based or educational. The length of time can vary from one week to one month or longer. The group stays at campgrounds or hotels, traveling by coach bus.

Types of Teen Tours Private: Most of the teen tour companies are privately owned. Like a camp, the company hires staff counselors who will travel and be responsible for the teens during the trip. These tours can be accredited by the Camping Association. When selecting a tour, make sure to research the company through the Better Business Bureau and by asking for recommendations from friends or family.

staff guides. You might be able to receive financial aid or a scholarship through Geography of Hope. You may also be able to travel for free if you are willing to volunteer. There is a tuition-free program you can apply to for girls aged 15-17 called Inspiring Girls Expeditions.

Is a teen tour right for your family?

Traveling requires a certain type of personality, usually someone who enjoys adventure and is able to be patient when necessary. My daughter’s twin brother had zero interest in attending the California trip and didn’t even show me the paperwork. His personality is vastly different from his twin’s, so I can understand why he doesn’t want to go.

If you can afford the high cost or qualify for a scholarship, then a teen tour can be a unique learning experience for your child. I visited various places and met people from diverse backgrounds. And even though I will miss her terribly, I’m sure my daughter will have an incredible trip.

Collaborate with Public/Private School: If your school doesn’t currently offer a travel program, you could ask about partnering with a travel company.

Religious: Local religious organizations may offer a teen travel experience during the summer. Sometimes these trips are community service orientated, while other times they may be educational. You could check with your local place of worship to find out if they offer a teen tour.

Cost The costs of these tours aren’t cheap ranging from $3k-$10k and up. Usually, the cost includes all meals, transportation during the trip (not to the first location), admission and A P R I L 2 0 2 2 | 27

2022 All County High School Art Show

Winners

DIGITAL ART

Last One Online Nicholas Bohanon 12th Grade Nease HS

CERAMICS

Behind Closed Doors Jessica Shattles 11th Grade Ponte Vedra HS

2-D MIXED MEDIA Artificial Cole Shapiro 9th Grade Ponte Vedra HS

DRAWING

Seeking Salvation Hanna Glatz 11th Grade Creekside HS

3-D MIXED MEDIA Too Much!

Sydney Angel 11th Grade Bartram Trail HS

PAINTING

Exhaustion Elena Coles 11th Grade Creekside HS

DRAWING

The Serenity of Childhood Innocence Olivia Dodge, 12th Grade Bartram Trail HS

PHOTOGRAPHY Beauty Windham Kelly 12th Grade Creekside HS

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ART Contest Subject: The Importance of our Waterways

Prepare a piece of art relating to water, waterways or conservation.

OPEN TO AGES 5-18 Winning pieces will be displayed at the Smithsonian WaterWays exhibit at the AACS Cultural Center and Museum from July 9th through September 3rd.

ENTER AT PARENTMAGAZINESFLORIDA.COM

Family Medicine

Familiar Locations

NOW OPEN For more than 130 years, we’ve cared for our growing community. And we’ve grown with it, providing innovative healthcare in new places and new ways. Today we are bringing that level of care to our friends and families in Julington Creek and Greenbriar. From birth through geriatrics, we are delivering complete health and wellness for all stages of life. We look forward to serving your whole family—and the whole community.

JULINGTON CREEK

GREENBRIAR

Located off of Race Track Road 2570 Race Track Rd, Suite A, St. Johns, FL 32259

Located off of CR210 304 Ashourian Ave, Suite 105, St. Augustine, FL 32092

904.819.1005

904.819.1006

Tristan Imhof, MD Family Medicine

To learn more about becoming a new patient, visit FlaglerHealth.org/JulingtonCreek or scan the QR code.

Mark Michaels, MD Family Medicine

To learn more about becoming a new patient, visit FlaglerHealth.org/Greenbriar or scan the QR code.