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2. reading

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February 2015
Information, Education and Entertainment for Northeast Florida Families
www.JacksonvilleScienceFestival.org
www.JacksonvilleScienceFestival.org
Event
to
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!
Free Event to all!Free
February 21,
Febuary 21, 2015
NEW
2015
CHALK WALK
Saturday only at Friendship
Fountain!
Saturday only at Friendship Fountain!
Page 2 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
Contents February 2015
Letter From The Editor
living well
Dear Readers,
Create A Culture Of Success................................................................... 4
T
eating well
his issue is packed with information and
resources to help you with the education of
your children including topics for every age from
preschool to college bound.
5-3-2-1-0: Countdown to Good Health.................................................... 5
Foods to Keep you Warm........................................................................ 5
education
Our Tidbits page (page 25) is packed with useful
information. For example, did you know kids
age 5 and under get FREE admission all year to
SeaWorld and Busch Gardens with their Preschool
Pass or that the SAT is being re-designed in 2016
and there is a FREE online test prep resource? For
more tidbits, join our email list at www.jax4kids.
com, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.
We’re keeping you informed and bringing you topical information you can use each and every day.
Jax4Kids.com is proud to sponsor the 3rd Annual
Jacksonville Science Festival; three days of events
that promotes student driven STEAM (Science,
Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) projects.
The Jacksonville Science Festival will be held at
the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens February 19th
and 20th and at MOSH and Friendship Fountain
on February 21st. The event includes a Chalk
Walk (application deadline is February 6th) and
Field Trip opportunities. To learn more about the
Jacksonville Science Festival, visit www.jacksonvillesciencefestival.org.
Join us on February 22nd for pre-concert fun
at the Jacksonville Symphony’s Family Series
Sounds of the Symphony concert. Tickets start
at $7. Order them online at www.jaxsymphony.
org or by calling 904-354-5547. The Jacksonville
Symphony’s Sound Check program offers students
age 25 and under admission to every Masterworks
series, Coffee series and other select concerts
for $25 for the season. Adults may accompany
students for $10. Turn to page 8 for more details.
Here’s a fun Date night idea! On February 6th, at
the Thrasher Horne Center for the Arts, comedians
Karen Morgan and Jim Collitan will give parents of
all ages a chance to laugh at the trials and tribulations of parenthood, marriage, family and everyday
life in America. Tickets start at $15 and are available in advance at www.thcenter.org or by calling
904-276-6750. For more places to go and things
to do, log on to Jax4Kids.com’s and click on the
Events tab.
The DePaul School: Making a Difference for Many................................... 6
Favorite Children’s Books for Black History Month.................................... 7
It Takes Planning to Get Into College........................................................ 8
Get a Sound Check Today....................................................................... 8
Mnemonic Devices Help Students of All Ages........................................... 9
Spring Brings New Tests for Students....................................................10
Teaching Kids Digital Citizenship...........................................................11
Get an Edge On STEM at Sylvan............................................................11
Ten Best Learning Apps for Your Beginner’s Tablet..................................12
Get Your Preschooler on the “Write” Path...............................................12
Jacksonville Science Festival.................................................................13
That’s My Job! Special Education Teacher..............................................13
National Toy Hall of Fame Adds Honorees..............................................14
Hone Study Skills and Improve Grades...................................................19
Teaching Tips Are Applicable for Every Caregiver....................................20
If you’ve wandered the toy aisle recently, you’ve
seen that classic toys are making a comeback.
Next time you need a gift idea, turn to page 14
for a list of the 56 toys that have made it into the
National Toy Hall of Fame.
Duval county public Schools
We’ve compiled a list of favorite children’s books
for Black History Month; you’ll find them on page
7 and on page 13 books about Valentine’s Day.
Enjoy!
Teachers of the Year.............................................................................17
Get Your Science Fair Projects Ready.....................................................17
Until next month,
Alison Peters-Carlson
Editor
Magnet Application Deadline.................................................................15
St. Johns County School news
Clay County School news
Get Ready for the Fair...........................................................................18
County Teachers Ranked 8th in State....................................................18
special needs
Things to Do, Special Needs Events.......................................................21
Teens
Follow us...
Alison Peters-Carlson Editor....................................... [email protected]
Linda Bigbee Graphic [email protected]
Judi Fields Circulation [email protected]
Doug Berle Advertising Sales......................................... [email protected]
Adam Bolton Advertising Sales..................................... [email protected]
Beth Canonica Advertising Sales.................................... [email protected]
Donna Paunetto Advertising Sales.............................. [email protected]
Steve Tremel Advertising [email protected]
Mary Gustafson Business Manager............................... [email protected]
Published by Child Enrichment, LLC, 12620-3 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246. Copyright 2015.
Reproduction of any artwork or copy prepared by Jax4Kids.com To Go is strictly prohibited without
written consent of the publisher. We will not be responsible for any errors and/or omissions. The
Publisher’s liability for error will not exceed the cost of space occupied by the error. Articles for
publication are welcome and may be sent to [email protected]. For more information concerning
advertising, call 904-710-2020 or e-mail [email protected].
Page 3 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
Don’t Let Bad Apps Spoil the Fun..........................................................22
Envirothon Competition.........................................................................22
Health & safety
E-Readers Getting a Bum Rap...............................................................23
Dirty Dozen Guide to Food Additives......................................................23
Environmental Safety Glossary..............................................................24
Infant & Toddler
Instill a Love of Books Early in Life for Lasting, Positive Effects................26
Early Dental Health Care.......................................................................27
nature
New Fishing Reefs Created in River Near Downtown..............................28
Pets
February is Dental Health Month...........................................................29
Roo Bites Treats Recalled......................................................................29
Things to do
February Events....................................................................................30
Living well
Create a Culture Of Success
E
ach night before my children go to bed I ask
them what their success of the day is. The
idea came from a story I read about the Olympic
gymnast, Bart Connor. Turns out 9 months before
the 1984 Olympics he tore his bicep muscle. They
said he would never make it back in time to
compete in the Olympics. But not only did he
make it back, he won two gold medals.
When Charlie Jones, the television broadcaster,
was interviewing him, he asked Bart how he did
it. Bart thanked his parents. Charlie Jones said,
“Come on Bart, everyone thanks their parents
when they win a gold medal.” Bart told Charlie
that this was different. He said, “Every night
before bed my parents would ask me what my
success was. So I went to bed a success every
night of my life. I woke up every morning a
success. When I was injured before the Olympics,
I knew I was going to make it back because I was
a success every day of my life.” Talk about a
confidence booster.
celebrate success create more success. Success
becomes ingrained in the culture and people
naturally look for it, focus on it and expect it.
That’s why certain football coaches and business
leaders are always successful. They implement
systems and principles that create a culture that
celebrates and expects success and this drives
behavior and habits that create successful
outcomes.
So how do we put this into practice? The ideas
are endless but here are few: If you are in sales
have a sales meeting each week (in person or by
phone) and share success stories. If you are in
management recognize people and their success
throughout the year. Not just during annual
meetings. Celebrate the small wins as much as
the big wins. Celebrate successful projects and
implementations. As a leader you’ll want to praise
people and reinforce successes that shine a
spotlight on important goals and growth initiatives. For your own personal growth, keep a daily
and weekly success journal. Write down your
Since engaging in this practice with my children I success of the day. Do this for 30 days and you’ll
can attest it works. I also know it works because I see amazing results.
share this story in my keynotes and hear great
stories from people all the time who are doing
What we focus on shows up more in our life. If
this with their children.
we look for and celebrate success we’ll see more
of it.
I also know it works for adults in businesses,
schools, and organizations because when we
It works for Olympic athletes, children and us. j
focus on what people are doing right, they do
www.jongordon.com
more things right. It’s the simple, powerful
www.positiveschool.com
message in the classic book “The One Minute
Manager” and it’s an important part of the work I twitter.com/JonGordon11
facebook.com/jongordonpage
do with organizations.
linkedin.com/in/jongordonenergy
instagram.com/jongordon11
Teams and organizations that focus on and
If you live to be a hundred, I want to live to
be a hundred minus one day so I never have
to live without you.” – A. A. Milne
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Page 4 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
eating well
5-3-2-1-0: Countdown to Good
Health
T
hinking about making some positive health/
nutrition changes for your family this year
but don’t know where to start? Maybe health
problems such as diabetes, hypertension, or high
cholesterol run in your family and you are worried
your children are at risk for long-term health
complications. Anytime is a great time to make
those important lifestyle changes and get started
on the road to a healthier future. Part of a nationally recognized childhood obesity prevention task
force, this simple countdown can be incorporated
into any family, no matter what your children’s
ages. Get started today!
Five – 5
The number of fruit and vegetable servings your
child should have in a day. A serving of fruit
could be one small apple, ½ banana or about 15
grapes. Limit juice intake to 1/2 cup per day for a
1 to 6 year old and 1 - 1½ cups per day for a 7 to
12 year old. A serving of vegetables could be one
cup of raw leafy greens (which would equal ½
cup cooked), or ½ cup cooked carrots or broccoli.
You don’t need to be an expert at measuring food
to make this work. Just simply provide ½ of your
child’s plate with fruits/vegetables and you will be
on track toward the healthy five!
Three – 3
Aim for 3 structured meals daily – the key is
not to skip meals. Breakfast is truly the most
important meal of the day. Not only does it help
normalize your blood sugars after fasting all
night, it also delivers important nutrients to your
brain to get you awake and thinking. This is especially important for those little ones heading off
to school in the morning. Try to eat at least one
mea as a family. This promotes communication
between members and has even been shown to
CHILDREN’S ART CLASSES now in Jacksonville!
This program of ART for your child was developed
in the Southwest, and has taken Children’s Art to
an entirely NEW level! Your child will learn and
achieve, and will be given recognition for this
achievement at his/her very own Annual Art Show!
reduce the risk of obesity because children have
to slow down to eat if there is conversation. Eat
less fast food. If your family eats out 3 times a
week, try cutting back to once a week. The more
meals you can make at home, the better it will be
for your waistline and for your budget. Get the
kids involved. If you have young children, let them
scrub the fruits and vegetables or let them mix
the batter for baked goods. Teach kids of any age
how to set a table. Let older children chop the ingredients or show them how to sauté vegetables.
Registration is now open!
Classes will be taught and supervised by a
certified Art Teacher with 25 years experience in
this proven method of Studio Art Education.
Students will work with pencil, charcoal, ink,
printmaking, painting, design, water colors, cast
paper, clay and much, much more!
Art Classes are available to children ages 3 and
up, and will meet once a week. Tuition is
$76/month. Classes meet at:
Two – 2
Limit TV/video games/electronics to two hours
or less daily. Any more cuts into active playtime/
exercise and can lead to unhealthy snacking.
8411 Baymeadows Way #2
Jacksonville, FL 32256
Start making small changes today and you and
your family will be on your way to a healthier
2015! j
Aurea Thompson,MSH,RD,CSP,LD/N
Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Nutrition
Wolfson Children’s Hospital
“Sometimes the smallest things take up the
most room in your heart.”
– Winnie the Pooh
1406 Kingsley Ave
Orange Park, FL 32073
Don’t miss out on this opportunity! Give your
child this gift of Art! Class size is limited, so
register TODAY! Call for further information or
visit us online at www.childrensartclasses.com
to view details and print out your own
REGISTRATION FORM.
One – 1
Strive for one or more hours of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily.
Get the entire family involved!
Zero – 0
Reduce sugar-sweetened beverages to “almost
none”. No one needs the extra sugar and caffeine
that sodas provide – there are approximately
150 calories in a 12-ounce can of regular soda
and about 10 teaspoons of sugar. Don’t let the
flavored waters fool you either – they can contain
sugar as well, and lots of it. Read the label before
thinking it’s a good choice for your little one.
COMING SOON: 2015 SUMMER WORKSHOPS
904.612.7557
www.childrensartclasses.com
BAYMEADOWS
8411 Baymeadows Way #2
Jacksonville, FL 32256
Barbara Gay
904.612.7557 or
Stephanie Larsen 904.962.4292
ORANGE PARK
1406 Kingsley Ave
Orange Park, FL 32073
Barbara Gay
Jessica Grotberg
904.612.7557 or
904.729.6144
Foods to Keep you Warm
A
s the arctic air keeps on bringing brutal
temperatures to a large part of the U.S., you
can do more to keep warm besides wearing a
coat, hat and gloves. A variety of foods can help
the body stay warm during these winter months.
Heather Nicholds, a holistic nutritionist who has
the Healthy Eating Starts Here website, said
grains, spices and oils give the body energy to
keep warm.
1. Ginger
Ginger not only helps the body stay warm, but
it also helps boost the immune and digestive
systems. Ginger can be used in salad dressings,
soups such as ginger carrot soup, and baked
goods. You can even drink ginger in hot water.
2. Coconut Oil
Fats in general, such as coconut oil, keep the
body warm through metabolizing, Nicholds said.
You don’t eat it, but coconut oil can also be used
as a moisturizer, which will prevent the body from
losing heat through dry skin, she said.
3. Cinnamon and other spices
You don’t want things too spicy because spices
such as cayenne can make you sweat and cause
you to lose heat, Nicholds said. Cinnamon, cumin,
Page 5 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
ER
R E G IS TY !
TODA
paprika, nutmeg and allspice help increase the
body’s metabolism and generate heat.
4. Whole grains
Oatmeal isn’t just a breakfast food. It can be used
to add whole grains to dinner such as a savory
balsamic oatmeal.
Eaten hot, rolled oats, brown rice, millet and other
whole grains give immediate warmth and also
provide needed complex carbohydrates to fuel
the body’s engine. Nicholds said the grains are a
good source of B vitamins and magnesium, which
help the thyroid and adrenal glands better regulate the body’s temperature during a time when
they slowdown from the colder weather.
5. Hot soups
Hot soups seem obvious, but the timing of the
foods are important, too, Nicholds said. A salad,
for instance, can be eaten during the afternoon
when the body is at its warmest.
But a stew or a soup in the evening can help keep
the body warm through the night. j
Accuweather.com
EDUCATION
The DePaul School:
Making a Difference for Many
N
urturing and preparing a child for life’s
challenges is a parent’s highest and best
calling. From the first day, the challenges are
different for each, as individual as the child. Most
place a good education as a top priority for their
child to succeed. Each day, we drop the child at
the school entrance. From there, the teacher
instructs and the child learns. The process seems
so clear and predictable. The natural progression
from pre-school through middle school and
higher learning presents few if any problems. A
call from the teacher means a bump in the
educational road, something that we deal with
and move on. But for some it means their child
will require a detour, traveling a different route to
find academic success.
The child notices differences affecting their
learning ability at an early age. Classmates are
reading and doing math problems with ease and
confidence. Handwriting should be easy, yet
neatness and spelling troubles soon become
pronounced. Homework that should be accomplished within an hour consumes the entire
evening. Both child and parent are exhausted at
the end of the nightly ritual. Reading a bedtime
story presents even more stress as the child
stumbles over basic sight words that should be
easy.
Schools and teachers differ in their approach to
children who are not meeting learning milestones. Individual attention for these students is
not always available or effective. Being left by the
educational roadside can happen without strong
parental involvement at this critical stage in the
child’s academic journey. The parent may
wonder; why is my talented child struggling in the
traditional education system? Does my child have
a learning disability? The label ‘disability’ in the
context of academic success can be misleading.
Some students simply learn differently than
others and must be taught in non-traditional
programs. They need to be taught the way they
learn.
Explaining the attributes of The DePaul School is
like providing parents a welcomed comfort
station along the educational highway. DePaul is
committed to understanding and educating
students with specific learning issues. Students,
parents and teachers understand the importance
of patience, encouragement and kindness in
creating the optimal learning environment.
St. Vincent de Paul was a 17th century French
priest who worked to help those in need. Inspired
by his principles, the DePaul School of Northeast
Florida was founded in 1970 to administer to
students “who struggle with traditional settings
because of learning differences.” The private
school offers full-time academic instruction to
students in grades 1 through 8.
The DePaul approach uses a variety of wellresearched programs to assure effective learning
of its students. The pillars of effective instruction
rely on: Attention; practice and review; researchbased structured academics and multi-sensory
presentation. Students adhere to a body of values
based on respect, responsibility, self-control and
positive attitude. Parents see the difference in
their child’s self-esteem and self-confidence
when all students pull together in support of each
other on the road to academic success. Wearing
the DePaul uniform carries a sense of pride in
membership for the students.
The parent/child journey along the educational
highway can once again be enjoyable and
rewarding.
The DePaul School, one of Jacksonville’s most
valued resources for educating students with
learning differences, is recognized as a driving
force in creating awareness of these issues as
well as providing an innovative, high quality
environment in which students are nurtured to
realize their fullest potential.
Russian National Ballet Theatre:
DON QUIXOTE
Attending the DePaul School has made a
difference in the quality of life for many children
and their parents: Their bumper stickers read:
THANKS, DEPAUL!!!! j
It is important for parents to recognize symptoms
or ‘warning signs’ of learning difficulties. The
characteristics are generally explained as:
Inconsistent performance on tests; confusion with John Brocato is a member of the DePaul School
the concept of time; difficulty distinguishing right board of directors.
from left; poor understanding of spatial relationwww.depaulschool.com
ships (e.g., above and behind); difficulty following
instructions; frequent reversals of letters and
numbers; social awkwardness; reading difficulties; poor spelling; difficulty with writing;
inconsistent quality of work and performance and
disorganization. Students exhibiting some or most
of those symptoms usually have dyslexia, visual
or auditory processing disorders or attention
deficit.
For those parents who can see their child
described in some or most of these symptoms,
there is hope – right here in Northeast Florida.
Page 6 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
FEBRUARY 22
SUNDAY
7 PM
THCENTER.ORG
904.276.6815
LOCATED AT
ST. JOHNS RIVER STATE COLLEGE
283 COLLEGE DRIVE IN ORANGE PARK
EDUCATION
Favorite Children’s Books for Black History Month
T
he editors from Reading Rockets compiled
this list of their favorite books for Black
History Month (and anytime). Some describe our
different histories, and others show the joys and
challenges that are shared by children of all
colors as they learn and grow. Reading Rockets is
a national multimedia literacy initiative offering
information and resources on how young children
learn to read, why so many struggle, and how
caring adults can help.
My Daddy and I
By: Eloise Greenfield
Illustrated by: Jan Spivey
Gilchrest
Age Level: 0-3
Reading Level: Pre-Reader
A boy and his father, shown
as African Americans in warmly hued illustrations,
enjoy doing everyday activities together, from
laundry to sharing a book and more. The simple
pleasures of family life are conveyed affectionately through easy but flowing language and
realistic paintings in a sturdy format.
The Quilt
By: Ann Jonas
Illustrated by: Ann Jonas
Age Level: 0-3
Reading Level: Pre-Reader
Publishers Weekly called this
delightful book a “landmark
in children’s literature.” Made
from her old pajamas and
curtains, a young girl’s new
quilt inspires a dream adventure. The squares of
the quilt become part of a dreamscape she enters
into in order to find her lost stuffed dog. An ALA
Notable Children’s Book.
Bright Eyes, Brown Skin
By: Cheryl Hudson, Bernette
Ford
Illustrated by:
George Cephas Ford
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Pre-Reader
Four African American children
interact with one another in a
preschool environment, exploring their facial
features, skin tones, what they wear, what they
do, and how they learn from and enjoy each
other. A happy book and nice addition to preschool and kindergarten classrooms.
A Chair for My Mother
By: Vera Williams
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level:
Beginning Reader
After a fire destroys their
home and possessions,
Rosa, her mother, and
her grandmother save their money to buy a big
comfortable chair. Suffused with warmth and
tenderness, This Caldecott Honor book celebrates
family love and determination. A Spanish version
also available.
Amazing Grace
By: Mary Hoffman
Illustrated by: Caroline Binch
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level:
Beginning Reader
Grace loves to act, but one
day some kids tell her she
can’t play the part of Peter
Pan because of the way she looks. Grace’s
grandmother helps this young girl realize that
with effort anything can be achieved. An inspiring
and heartwarming story.
Anansi The Spider: A Tale
From the Ashanti
By: Gerald McDermott
Illustrated by:
Gerald McDermott
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning
Reader
Have you ever wondered how the moon got
where it is? According to this Ashanti tale, Nyame,
the god of all things, put it there when Anansi
could not decide which of his sons deserved it.
Brilliant illustrations accompany this classic
retelling of a traditional tale.
Bigmama’s
By: Donald Crews
Illustrated by: Donald
Crews
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning
Reader
Every year the narrator
and his family take a trip down to Cottondale,
Florida, to visit his grandmother, Bigmama. This
autobiographical story recalls the joys of summer
and the contrast between the author’s life in the
city and Bigmama’s lush, rural home. While the
illustrations suggest it was a period of segregation, this thought never overpowers the carefree
summer celebration.
Nina Bonita
By: Ana Machado
Illustrated by: Rosana Faria
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level:
Beginning Reader
This delightful book is set on a Caribbean island
and features a little white rabbit who admires a
beautiful black girl. He asks her what her secret
is and she tells him to drink lots of black coffee
and to eat lots of black beans. He doesn’t give up
though and in the end finds what change he can
make.
Something Beautiful
By: Sharon Wyeth
Illustrated by: Chris K. Soentpiet
Age Level: 3-6
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
Page 7 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
A young girl learns to find beauty in her sometimes gritty urban neighborhood, showing how
the way one sees makes a difference that affects
others. Luminous watercolors detail the child, her
neighborhood, and suggest what she sees around
her.
Bill Pickett: Rodeo-Ridin
Cowboy
By: Andrea Pinkney and Brian
Pinkney
Illustrated by: Brian Pinkney
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level:
Beginning Reader
The most celebrated black cowboy was Bill
Pickett, a fearless rodeo star with a knack for
taming bulls that brought the crowds to their feet.
The closing note in this book provides an
overview of the history of rodeos and black
cowboys.
Drylongso
By: Virginia Hamilton
Illustrated by: Jerry Pinkney
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level:
Beginning Reader
Newbery Award winner
Virginia Hamilton describes
how Lindy and her family suffer through a long
drought. Then a mysterious boy comes and
teaches them the secrets of finding water hidden
in the earth.
I Am Rosa Parks
By: Rosa Parks, James Haskins
Illustrated by: Wil Clay
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level:
Independent Reader
The famous civil rights activist
Rosa Parks has simplified her
autobiography for young
readers in this Puffin Easy to Read book. She
describes how she was arrested for not giving up
her bus seat and shows that her personal role
was part of a wider political struggle.
Martin’s Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin
Luther King, Jr.
By: Doreen Rappaport
Illustrated by: Bryan Collier
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level:
Beginning Reader
Martin Luther King Jr. grew up
fascinated by big words. He
would later go on to use these
words to inspire a nation and
call people to action. In this award-winning book,
powerful portraits of King show how he used
words, not weapons, to fight injustice.
The Stories Huey Tells
By: Ann Cameron
Illustrated by: Roberta Smith
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Beginning Reader
These five short and funny stories
show the mischief that Huey gets
into in daily adventures with his
annoying older brother Julian. The
stories are filled with fun and
warmth.
Sweet Clara and the Freedom Quilt
By: Deborah Hopkinson
Illustrated by: James Ransome
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level: Independent Reader
Clara is born into slavery but
learns an important skill
when she becomes a
seamstress. Her quilting ability allows Clara to put
together directions to escape
north to freedom when she
overhears a conversation
about a route to Canada.
The Dream Keeper and Other Poems
By: Langston Hughes
Illustrated by: Brian Pinkney
Age Level: 6-9
Reading Level:
Independent Reader
The great American poet Langston
Hughes chose the poems in this
classic collection, originally
published for young people in
1932.
The Gold Cadillac
By: Mildred Taylor
Illustrated by: Michael Hays
Age Level: 9-12
Reading Level:
Independent Reader
Set in the 1950s, this book by
Mildred Taylor is frank in its
portrayal of racism. Lois and
Wilma are proud when their
father buys a brand new gold Cadillac. Only their
mother won’t ride in it. On a trip from their home
in Ohio to Mississippi, there are no admiring
glances only suspicion directed toward the black
man driving such a fancy car. For the first time,
Lois knows what it’s like to feel scared because
of her skin color.
Through My Eyes
By: Ruby Bridges
Age Level: 9-12
Reading Level:
Independent Reader
Six-year-old Ruby Bridges
became the first African
American to integrate an elementary school. Her
memories of that year, when so much hatred was
directed at her, makes for a powerful memoir. A
1999 Parents’ Choice Gold Award Winner. j
www.readingrockets.org
Learn . Love . Lead
EDUCATION
It Takes Planning to Get
Into College
W
Applications
Most college applications run anywhere from five
to ten pages in length and ask students for
personal, academic and disciplinary or criminal
information. In addition, most applications ask if
students have served in the military or if they
have any special disabilities they would like the
college admissions office to be aware of. At some
universities, such as UNF, applications may be
Admission Requirements
completed online or on paper. At JU and UF,
At the University of Florida (UF), minimum
however, applications need to be completed
freshman admission requirements include high
school graduation (or its equivalent), a cumulative online.
C average, a good conduct record, minimum
Essays
scores on the ACT with writing or the SAT
Though not
Reasoning Test, a completed application, and 18
always a
academic credits, 16 distributed as follows:
requirement, a
English (with substantial writing)
4 units
well-written
essay accompaMathematics (Algebra 1, Geometry,
4 units
nying a
Algebra 2)
student’s college application can increase a
Natural Sciences (two units must
3 units
student’s admission chances. An admissions
include labs)
counselor from JU told me essays help an
applicant’s chances because the admissions
Social Sciences (history, civics,
3 units
office examines every piece of paper sent to
government, etc.)
them by a potential student. An essay can help
Foreign Language (sequential)
2 units
counselors get a well-rounded view of students.
Essays can be from past high school English
The University of North Florida (UNF) and
assignments, list reasons why the student wants
Jacksonville University (JU) have similar admisto attend JU or be about the student’s career
sion requirements. Most area colleges and
goals, the
universities also require a non-refundable
counselor
application fee.
told me.
Beaches
Episcopal
School
Delivers...
hether your child majors in engineering,
linguistics or music, odds are getting
through the college admissions process will take
planning and effort. Deadlines vary, but most
local and regional universities recommend
completing freshmen applications the summer
after a student’s junior year of high school.
High School Credits
It’s a good idea for parents of school-age children
to monitor their grades from kindergarten through
high school. College admissions officers tasked
with selecting an incoming freshman class
usually look only at grades earned during the
high school years.
In addition to making good grades, many
students these days take advantage of Advanced
Placement (AP), Early Enrollment and Dual
Enrollment classes to prepare themselves for
college. Most college applications have a section
where students indicate if they took these types
of classes.
After receiving
official high school
transcripts,
admissions officers
usually recalculate
students’ grade
point averages
giving additional
weight to any
college preparatory
classes. If students
have not completed required high school courses
by the time they apply for university admission,
they are usually expected to complete the
courses before they enter the university.
Acceptance
Once
requirements
are met, most admissions offices send letters of
acceptance to potential students as quickly as
they can. At UF, for example, the freshman
application period is from August 1 through
November 1 each year. If students apply during
that window, they should hear a yes or no from
the university by the middle of February. Even
though UNF accepts applications on a rolling
basis, the school recommends all incoming
freshman apply by October 1 for the following
summer or fall to ensure financial aid, scholarships and housing preferences. At JU, decisions
are made on a rolling basis as well, though
admission decisions are made once all paperwork is received. Applications received after June
1 will be considered on a space-available basis.
Next month, I’ll share more about preparing for
college in high school by examining the pros and
cons of AP, dual enrollment and early enrollment
classes. j
Nancy Lee Bethea
Nancy Lee Bethea teaches English to students in
grades 9 through 12 at Sonshine Christian
Academy in Callahan. She is also a freelance
writer who can be reached at nancyleebethea@
gmail .com
Page 8 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
•Strong Academic
Program
•Dynamic, Qualified
Teachers
•Secure Campus
•STEM Curriculum
•Spiritual Formation
and the Arts
•Student Leadership
Opportunities
•Technology
Integration
•Athletic Program
Schedule
a Campus
Tour!
Now Enrolling!
PreK3 through Sixth Grade
Phone: (904) 246-2466
BeachesEpiscopalSchool.org
Get a Sound Check Today
M
usic plays an integral part in every child’s
life – an element that encourages learning
and provides a positive emotional balance.
Recognizing this, our
premier musical
organization, the
Jacksonville Symphony
Orchestra, strives to
serve the community as
a leader and invaluable
partner in music
education. Each season
more than 80,000 young people benefit from the
Orchestra’s diverse educational opportunities,
including concerts, in-school ensemble performances, after-school enrichment, master classes,
and the symphony’s youth orchestra.
As part of this mission to expose our youth to the
beauty and power of music, the symphony offers
Sound Check, a program that allows students
access to a season of symphony concerts for one
low fee. Students up to the age of 25 can
purchase a Sound Check card for $25. This
provides access to every Masterworks series,
Coffee series and other select concerts during the
season. Adults may accompany students with a
special $10 admission (Cash only with a limit of 2
accompanying admissions available 90 minutes
prior to the concert.)
Sound Check concerts through the end of the
season:
February 13, 2015
– Pops in Love (Coffee Concert Only)
February 20-21, 2015
– Gershwin Concerto in F (Any Concert)
March 12-14, 2015
– Saint-Saens’ Thundering “Organ” Symphony
(Any Concert)
March 26 & 28, 2015
– Beethoven’s Missa Solemnis (Any Concert)
April 10, 2015
– A Tribute to Marvin Hamlisch (Coffee Concert
Only)
April 24-25, 2015
– Beethoven’s “Pastoral” (Any Concert)
May 14-15, 2015
– Courtney Lewis Returns (Any Concert)
For tickets or to purchase a Sound Check card
call 904-354-5547 or visit jaxsymphony.org.
Follow the Jacksonville Symphony on Twitter @
jaxsymphony and at Facebook.com/JaxSymphony. j
EDUCATION
JAC KSONV IL LE
SYMPH ONY ORC HESTR A
COURTNEY LEWIS, MUSIC DIRECTOR DESIGNATE
Mnemonic Devices Help Students of
All Ages
W
hether you are a preschool student trying
to remember the colors of the rainbow or
a medical student trying to name the nerves in
the eye, we all have things we need to remember.
Sometimes these things come easily for us, such
as our birthday, while others can be very
challenging. So what do you do when you need
help remembering? Use a mnemonic device,
which is a trick used to help remember a set of
information. When you come across information
that you need help remembering, simply take the
first letter of each word and use them to make a
catchy sentence with words starting with the
same letters. Can’t think of one? That’s okay!
There are other techniques you can use also,
such as creating a poem or rhyme to remember
the information. A song can be helpful. To help
you get started, here is a list of several mnemonic devices commonly used for students of all
ages divided by subject area.
General Information
Colors in Rainbow Order: ROY G. BIV (Red,
Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, Violet)
How Many Days in a Month: 30 Days Hath
September, April, June, and November. All the
rest have 31, but February’s the shortest one.
With 28 days most of the time, until Leap Year
gives us 29.
Weather Temperature: High to Low, Look Out
Below; Low to High, Clear Blue Sky!
Weather: Red sky at night, shepherd’s delight;
Red sky in the morning, shepherd’s warning.
Weather: Rainbow in the morning, traveler’s take
warning; Rainbow at night, traveler’s delight.
Language Arts
What is a pronoun? A pronoun is a common word
that is a PRO at taking the place of a noun.
Difference between synonyms and antonyms:
Synonyms are the SAME (both start with S).
Antonyms are the opposite. (Antonym starts with
ANT, just like Anti, which also means opposite).
The seven conjunctions: FAN BOYS (For, And, Nor,
But, Or, Yet, So).
Mathematics
Steps of Long Division: Dad, Mom, Sister, Brother,
Rover (Divide, Multiply, Subtract, Bring Down,
Remainder).
Order of Operations: Please Excuse My Dear Aunt
Sally (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiply, Divide,
Add, Subract).
Letters and Values for Roman Numerals in Value
Order: I Value Xylophones Like Cows Dig Milk (
I=1, V=5, X=10, L= 50, C=100, D=500,
M=1,000).
Metric System Prefixes in Value Order: King Henry
Died Drinking Chocolate Milk (Kilo=x 1000,
Hecta=x 100, Deca=x 10, Deci=x 0.1, Centi=x
0.01, Milli=x 0.001).
Trigonometry Formulas (where O=opposite,
A=adjacent, and H=hypotenuse): Two Old Angels
Skipped Over Heaven Carrying Ancient Harps
(Tangent = O/A, Sine = O/H, Cosine = A/H).
Music
Lines on a Treble Staff: Every Good Boy Does Fine
(E, G, B, D, F).
Spaces on a Treble Staff: FACE.
Lines on a Bass Staff: Good Boys Do Fine Always
(G, B, D, F, A).
Geography
Spaces on a Bass Staff: All Cows Eat Grass (A, C,
Longitude is the line on a map that stretches
E, G).
vertically from North to South. Latitude is the line Circle of Fifths: Father Charlie Goes Down And
on a map that stretches horizontally West to East. Ends Badly (F, C, G, D, A, E, B).
Ways to remember this include: LONGitude is
long (North to South) OR Longitude has an N like Science - Elementary
North.
Names of the Planets (Including Pluto): My Very
Names of the Great Lakes: HOMES (Huron,
Educated Mother Just Served Us Nine Pizzas
Ontario, Michigan, Erie, Superior).
(Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn,
Uranus, Neptune, Pluto).
History
Names of the Planets (Not Including Pluto): My
Dates Alaska and Hawaii Became States: ‘59 was Very Excited Mother Just Served Us Nachos
the date, when Alaska and Hawaii became new
(Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn,
states.
Uranus, Neptune).
What Happened to Henry VIII’s Wives: Divorced,
Simple Machines: PG JAIL (Pulley, Gear, JackBeheaded, Died; Divorced, Beheaded, Survived.
screw, Axel and Wheel, Inclined Plane, Lever).
When Columbus Found America: In 1492,
Properties of Matter: Monkeys Dance Very Well.
Columbus sailed the ocean blue.
(Mass, Density, Volume, Weight).
Geological Time Periods in Order: Cows Often Sit
Down Carefully. Perhaps Their Joints Creak?
Science - Secondary
Persistent Early Oiling Might Prevent Painful
Levels of Taxonomy: King Philip Can Order Five
Rheumatism (Cambrian, Ordovician, Silurian,
Greek Salads (Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order,
Devonian, Carboniferous, Permian,Triassic,
Family, Genus,Species).
Jurassic, Cretaceous, Paleocene, Eocene,
Flow of Electrons: OIL RIG (Oxidation = It Loses,
Oligocene, Miocene, Pliocene, Pleistocene, Recent). Reduction = It Gains).
Page 9 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
Metric System Prefixes in Value Order: King Henry
Died Drinking Chocolate Milk (Kilo=x 1000,
Hecta=x 100, Deca=x 10, Deci=x 0.1, Centi=x
0.01, Milli=x 0.001).
Order of Mohs Hardness Scale from 1-10: Toronto
Girls Can Flirt and Other Quirky Things Can Do
(Talc, Gypsum, Calcite, Fluorite, Apatite, Orthoclase feldspar, Quartz, Topaz, Corundum,
Diamond).
Essential Amino Acids: Ptv. Tim Hall (Phenylanine,
Valine, Threonine, Tryptophan, Isoleucine,
Methionine, Histidine, Arginine, Leucine, Lysine).
Nerves of the Eye: On Old Olympus’s Towering
Tops, A Finn and German Viewed Some Hops
(Olfactory, Optic, Oculomotor, Trochlear, Trigeminal, Abducens, Facial, Acoustic, Glassopharyngeal,
Vagus, Spinal Accessory,Hypoglossal).
Bones in the Wrist: Never Lick Tilly’s Popsicle,
Mother Might Come Home. (Navicular, Lunate,
Triquetrum, Pisiform, Multongular Greater,
Multongular Lesser, Capiate, Hamate). j
HASKELL ENDOWED CHAIR
Family
Series
Pre-concert activities at 2 pm
TICKETS START AT
JUST $7!
Sounds of
the Symphony
Bright Hub Education
Sunday, February 22 at 3 pm
Sameer Patel, conductor • Tony Kamnikar, narrator
SHARE THE FUN!
A funny and educational journey into
composing a masterpiece.
Sponsored by The Main Street America Group
TAKE A PHOTO
UPLOAD IT
VIa Instagram, Facebook or Twitter
TAG IT
#jax4kidsFamilyFun
One winner will be drawn monthly to
receive four one day passes to Adventure
Landing Shipwreck Island Waterpark!
Sunday, April 26 at 3 pm
Michelle Merrill, conductor
Norma Lewis, performer and narrator
FOLLOW US @jax4kids
@aljaxbeach
@adventurelandingjaxbeach
Two twins must outwit a fierce
monster and heal their devastated village.
Carved masks, singing and movement.
Order Your Tickets Now
904.354.5547
JaxSymphony.org
EDUCATION
Spring
Brings New
Test for
Students
B
eginning next month, Florida students will
begin taking a brand new test tied to the
state’s new math, reading and writing standards.
It’s called the Florida Standards Assessment. It
replaces the FCAT.
The major differences:
• It’s online. Well, eventually. This year not
everyone will have to take the test on the
computer. The state will decide later whether
or not to use pencil and paper again next year.
• It has new types of questions that will be
more interactive. Some questions ask
students to move items around, sorting
correct answers from those that are wrong.
Others ask students to choose the correct
answer from drop-down menus or fill in the
blanks in math problems. There are also audio
questions on the exam. Students will have to
listen to a recording and answer questions
based on the clip.
• It’s longer. The test adds 40 minutes to third
grade testing, 160 minutes to sixth and
seventh grade testing and 270 minutes for
high school juniors who previously didn’t have
to take the FCAT exam.
• More students will be tested. Every student in
fourth through 11th grade will now take a
writing test each year. Previously, only
students in fourth, eighth and 10th grades
took the FCAT writing exam.
The American Institutes of Research (AIR) was
chosen to administer the tests. AIR is using
questions from Utah’s statewide exam. Because
of Florida’s higher percentage of minorities,
critics are questioning the viability of these
questions.
How the questions are chosen is important
because the results of the test matter. Every year,
Florida issues A through F grades for public
schools. The State Board of Education will set the
new passing scores over the summer based on
the first batch of student scores. So next year’s
public school grades will be released in the fall of
2015, but those grades won’t force any changes
at low-rated schools next year. Penalties will
return in 2016. But students with low scores on
the third grade reading exam can still be held
back a year. And students have to pass the tenth
grade reading exam to graduate high school.
Teachers will be rated using their students’ test
scores according to their district’s plan.
More information and training tests are available
at fsassessments.org. To see the approved online
calculator go to: demo.tds.airast.org/TDSCalculator/TDSCalculator.html?mode=Scientific j
FLORIDA STATEWIDE
ASSESSMENT PROGRAM
NOW ACCEPTING
2015 - 2016 VPK
2015 SCHEDULE
FLORIDA STANDARDS ASSESSMENTS (FSA)
ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS AND MATHEMATICS
DATES
ASSESSMENT
GRADE LEVEL
March 2–13, 2015
FSA English Language Arts – Writing Component
4*, 5–11
March 23–April 10, 2015
FSA English Language Arts*/Mathematics*
3–4
April 13–May 8, 2015
FSA English Language Arts
5–11
April 13–May 8, 2015
FSA Mathematics
5–8
Gold Seal Accreditation
5 Star Rating with Guiding Stars
Open Monday – Friday
6:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Ages 6 weeks – 5 years
FSA END-OF-COURSE ASSESSMENTS
DATES
ASSESSMENT
April 20–May 15,
Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2
■
*Indicates a paper-based test; all other assessments are computer-based only, with paper-based
accommodations available for eligible students with disabilities.
■
■
■
■
NEXT GENERATION SUNSHINE STATE STANDARDS (NGSSS) ASSESSMENTS
■
FLORIDA COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT TEST® FCAT 2.0
■
DATES
ASSESSMENT
GRADE LEVEL
March 23–April 10,
2015
FCAT Mathematics Retake (SSS) and
FCAT 2.0 Reading Retake
Retained 10–AD
April 13–May 8, 2015
FCAT 2.0 Science*
5 and 8
NGSSS END-OF-COURSE ASSESSMENTS
DATES
ASSESSMENT
March 23–April 10, 2015
Algebra 1 Retake
April 20–May 22, 2015
Biology 1, Civics, U.S. History
July 13–24, 2015
Algebra 1 Retake, Biology 1, Civics, U.S. History
*Indicates a paper-based test; all other assessments are computer-based only, with paper-based
accommodations available for eligible students with disabilities.
■
■
A Beka Curriculum
Learn Every Day™
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Baymeadows
904-538-0900
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Lic #C04DU370
OTHER STATEWIDE ASSESSMENTS
DATES
ASSESSMENT
August 2014–May 2015
Florida Assessments for Instruction in Reading (FAIR) (optional – K-12)
January–March, 2015
National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP)
Grades 4, 8, and 12 Reading, Mathematics, and Science
March 2–April 3, 2015
Comprehensive English Language Learning Assessment (CELLA)
TBD
Alternate Assessment for Students with Significant Disabilities
May 2015
Advanced Placement (AP) Exams
Year Round
Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT)
Southside
904-997-1971
10915 Baymeadows Rd. # 200
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Quality Preschool and Childcare
www.TsLearningCenter.com
Page 10 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
EDUCATION
Teaching Kids Digital
Citizenship
D
igital Passport is an interactive, fun, and
effective way to teach and test the basics of
digital citizenship to 3rd-5th graders and it’s
FREE.
Kids will learn about how to make wise decisions
about sharing content, cyberbulling, internet
search skills, cell phone etiquette, and the ethics
of using digital content.
Digital Passport for Kids
Digital Passport for Kids is available on the web
at www.digitalpassport.org or download it to an
iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch from the App Store or
on Google Play for Android devices by searching
for “Digital Passport.”
Digital Passport for the Classroom
There are five 45-minute modules. Each module
is aligned to both Common Core and the National
Education for Technology Standards for Students
(ISTE’s NETS). Companion lessons from their
standards-aligned K-12 Digital Literacy and
Citizenship curriculum are available for more
in-depth activities and conversations. Learn
more and download the Educator Handbook at
www.digitalpassport.org/educator/materials.
Communication: Twalkers
Students learn why it’s important to avoid
multitasking with a cell phone. They consider the
benefits of focusing on one task at a time.
Students will:
• learn that cell phones are powerful, convenient
tools for communication.
• identify situations in which using cell phones
can be rude or distracting.
• reflect on the benefits of focusing on one task
at a time.
Privacy: Share Jumper
Students evaluate examples of online messages.
They decide what information is appropriate to
share and when. Students are also reminded that
nothing is truly “private” or “erasable” online.
Students will:
• reflect on the benefits of sharing online, while
acknowledging that information can spread
fast and far.
• classify information that should be kept private
online.
• predict the effect that an online post or
message might have on someone’s reputation.
Cyberbullying: E-volve
Students make choices about what to do if they
or their friends are cyberbullied. They are
encouraged to “evolve” into an “Upstander” –
someone who takes action to stop cyberbullying,
rather than standing by.
Students will:
• compare different forms of cyberbullying and
the roles of those involved.
• interpret scenarios that illustrate how targets
of cyberbullying feel.
• identify ways to be an “Upstander” when
cyberbullying occurs.
Search: Search Shark
Students learn how to choose effective keywords
for searching online. They practice selecting
keywords that are most relevant to a search
prompt. Along the way, students discover hints for
narrowing their search results.
Students will:
• learn how keywords can help them find
information online.
• evaluate keywords for their relevance and
helpfulness.
• practice identifying the most effective keywords for different search scenarios.
Creative Credit: Mix-n-Mash
Students remix media content to create a new
creative piece. Along the way, they give proper
credit to the artists whose images and sound
clips they use.
Students will:
• learn about copyright, credit, and plagiarism
and apply it to their own creative work.
• reflect on the ethical importance of giving
credit to others for their work.
• determine how to receive credit for their digital
creations. j
Page 11 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
Get an Edge On STEM at
Sylvan
T
he United States has become a world leader
through the genius and hard work of its
scientists, engineers and innovators. However to
remain a world leader, America needs more
students to pursue expertise in the fields of
science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). To encourage more student interest in
STEM, Sylvan Learning has expanded its product
offering to include Sylvan Edge products – Robotics, Coding, and Math Edge.
robotic models. Working motors, gears, cams, and
tilt sensors bringing the robot to life.”
“It was great to see these students having so
much fun learning,” Sylvan Center Director Kim
Paige said. “A student in the class told his mom, ‘I
want to do this every day, Sylvan makes learning
fun!’”
In the Sylvan Edge coding class, students learn
computer programming by designing video
“I am so excited to be able to offer students these games to play with their friends. The Sylvan Math
new programs to encourage not only STEM
Edge program allows students to become actively
education, but enhance critical thinking skills,”
engaged in problem solving and math application
said local Sylvan franchisee Paige Howell. “We
with manipulatives. Critical thinking skills in math
will continue to offer our reading, math, writing,
are crucial for success in math, but also mean
study skills, SAT/ACT prep, and homework
success on the highly competitive college
assistance programs, but the Edge programs give entrance exams.
us another fun and educational way to enrich
student academic performance. We kicked off our To learn more about these programs, call your
Robotics program this summer and were thrilled neighborhood center today at 866-219-1413 for
by the community interest. Sylvan Robotics uses a class schedule or to sign up for a free demo. j
LEGO WeDo software to build and program LEGO
EDUCATION
Ten Best Learning Apps for Your Beginner’s Tablet
2
014 was a terrific year for learning apps. As
more schools put tablets in kids’ hands,
developers are rising to the challenge. Of the
hundreds of apps reviewed on Common Sense
Graphite this year, these 10 stood out as some of
the most innovative, effective, and enjoyable.
They span grades and content areas, and include
creation tools for both teachers and students.
Hooked on Phonics Learn to Read Classroom
Edition (Android, iOS, Kindle Fire)
This thorough, high-quality phonics program
offers impressive benefits for emerging readers.
The program includes 12 steps; each teaches
rimes and letter sounds to help kids build words.
Within each step, videos with catchy songs
introduce letter sounds and sight words, and
games help kids build words using onsets and
rimes. Teachers will appreciate the mix of phonics
and sight words, and kids will enjoy the variety of
delivery and the predictability of how each step
advances.
called Bookkenriders, from drinking all the Magic
Juice found in the Land of Venn. The game
addresses a handful of Common Core math
standards, making it a handy curriculum support
tool.
LightSail (Android, iPad, Chromebook)
Support students’ independent reading with this
robust literacy platform. Students can use
Cookie Monster’s Challenge (iPad)
LightSail to check out texts from their school’s
The unique games in this collection help young
digital library and read the books directly on their
kids build essential school-readiness skills such
devices. As students progress through a book,
as self-control, focus, persistence, memory, and
questions appear to gauge comprehension.
problem-solving. All require kids to listen
Students have access to their own data, including
attentively and follow directions, and each game IF... The Emotional IQ Game (iOS)
per-page reading progress, earned badges, and
intelligently builds in complexity. Kids just keep
This absorbing adventure game helps kids ages 6 Lexile score. Teachers can also view students’
trying until they respond correctly.
to 12 develop the skills that lead to emotional
data in real time.
intelligence. The curriculum-based lessons
Gracie and Friends Birthday Cafe (iPad)
interwoven into gameplay can support kids as
Nearpod (Android, iOS, Nook, Chromebook,
This is the first release in a series of free apps
they develop emotions-based vocabulary, learn
Apps for Windows)
and off-screen learning activities for the presocial decision-making, build empathy, and
The go-to tool for interactive presentations and
school classroom. Kids learn to identify quantity,
increase their ability to handle stressful situaassessments, Nearpod provides opportunities for
up to five, without counting. They also experiment tions. IF... is a great tool to use in conjunction with skill development across the curriculum and
with recognizing numbers both by numeral and
other SEL curriculum materials.
multiple ways to improve student learning.
quantity of objects, and with comparing numbers
Teachers can interact with students as they move
quickly, by sight. The pedagogical approach is
Land of Venn (iOS)
through the presentations and can view student
rock solid and is strongly supported by in-theIntroduce or reinforce early geometry concepts
responses in real time. Students enjoy the
classroom research. The best feature here is the
with this captivating game. Kids learn how to use opportunity to take ownership of their learning
stepped scaffolding that clearly and patiently
principles of geometry to defeat an evil wizard
rather than passively viewing a teacher-directed
provides struggling kids with the extra help they
named Apeirogon and his monsters. By drawing
whole-class presentation.
need.
points, lines, and shapes, kids stop the monsters,
Shadow Puppet Edu (iOS)
This easy-to-use free tool is a must-have for
elementary classrooms. Students can create
“Being deeply loved by someone gives you
video slideshows, adding their own narration and
strength, while loving someone deeply gives
text. Everything can be found and quickly added
to the slideshow from within the app, meaning
you courage.” – Lao Tzu
one less step to walk students through and one
less opportunity for distractions. Teachers will
find many uses for Shadow Puppet Edu, plus
about 30 project ideas are included in the Ideas
section of the app, organized by topic.
TinyTap: Make and Play Educational Games
and Interactive Lessons (Android, iOS)
Both a tool for creating interactive games and
books, and a vast library of precreated games
and content, TinyTap is a terrific resource and
creation tool for teachers and students. Create
your own game using the app’s creation tools:
import or create images, then add interactive
elements, including questions and answers,
video, and audio. Or check out the app’s Creativity Museum, a searchable collection of games
and books created by teachers, parents, developers, and authors.
Twelve a Dozen (iPad)
If you’re looking for a game that effectively
combines learning and core math skills with
gameplay, while also promoting deep criticalthinking and problem-solving skills, then Twelve a
Dozen is a home run. Through 30 different levels
that increase in difficulty, kids help the main
character travel across the town, solving
math-related challenges. Instead of specific,
targeted practice or drill-style worksheets, kids
get a highly engaging, meaningful learning
experience. j
museumofplay.org.
Erin Wilkey Oh writes for Graphite, a free service
from nonprofit Common Sense Education
designed to help users discover, use, and share
the best apps, games, websites, and digital
curricula by providing unbiased ratings and
practical insights.
Get Your Preschooler on the “Write” Path
A
lthough preschoolers cannot yet write, they
are learning skills that will help them when
that time comes. Take a look at some of these
prewriting skills along with tips on how you can
help your student develop those skills.
shoelace through sewing card holes, string beads
on a thread, and pick up objects with tweezers in
order to improve these skills.
to draw in a specific direction. Start off simple (a
circle, a square, or a triangle) showing them how
to carefully trace over the lines on the paper.
Then gradually move to more complex shapes.
Make these activities more fun by dotting the
lines so that students feel like they are drawing
their own pictures or “figuring out” what the
picture will be.
the dots” games, emphasizing that the lines that
connect the dots should be as straight as
possible. For curves (such as circles) make caterpillars or snowmen with them. When they have
mastered the basic line and circle, play “follow
the leader” games where the teacher says a set
of directions such as “Draw a line to the right,
and then draw a small circle. Does your picture
look like mine?” j
Holding a Pencil
One of the most basic pre-writing skills is that of
holding a pencil correctly. Many have learned to
grasp a crayon – and therefore a pencil – with
their whole fist. If a student seems only able to
use all five of her fingers to grasp a pencil, try
cutting three holes in the end of a sock and show
her how to stick her thumb, pointer, and middle
finger through the holes.
Learning Direction Words
In order to be able to write letters, they first need
to understand basic direction words (“up,”
“down,” “across,” and “around”). After all, most
teachers will teach students to write the capital
letter “A” by saying “Draw a line up and down,
Drawing Lines and Curves
and then draw a line across.” To teach this basic To help them master straight lines play “connect
Keren Perles for www.brighthubeducation.com
prewriting skill have them wave around scarves
or handkerchiefs as you call out directions, or hop
up and down like a frog or a rabbit, or drive toy
“Spread love everywhere you go. Let no
cars around and around in a circle.
Improving Small Motor Skills
In order for a child to use a pencil appropriately,
fine motor skills have to be adequately developed. Try letting children cut out shapes, thread a
Tracing Shapes
The next step involves tracing shapes. This
improves students’ hand-eye coordination and
helps them get used to using a pencil or crayon
Page 12 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
one ever come to you without leaving
happier.”
– Mother Teresa
EDUCATION
City Science Festival Includes
Zoo and MOSH Events
T
he 3rd Annual Jacksonville
Science Festival will be held at
The Jacksonville Zoo on Thursday and
Friday, Feb. 19 -20, and the (MOSH)
Museum of Science & History at
Friendship Fountain Park Saturday, Feb.
21. The Saturday event is free and
open to the public, while Thursday and
Friday are reserved for school groups
and regular zoo visitors.
This exciting family-friendly event is
the only student-driven science festival
in the world. It includes interactive booths, local
vendors, Big Science with MOSH, food trucks, and
other activities. Established in 2012, the vision of
the Jacksonville Science Festival is to engage our
local community, while empowering young minds
to think creatively about problem solving. With a
heavy focus on S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology,
Engineering, Art, and Math, the festival acts as a
platform that encourages participants to actively
engage in their project and to find a solution.
More than just a showcase of exhibits, the
Jacksonville Science Festival is a fun and
That’s MY Job!
Vanessa Campbell, Special Education Teacher
Q. Why did you choose this career?
A. Teaching is my passion. I love having the opportunity to shape young
minds and enrich the lives of our children. When I first became a Special
Educator, I started as 1:1 support for a child with autism and quickly
fell in love with the field. After that year, I decided to make the move to
Special Education permanent.
Q. What kind of education did you get to become a Special Education Teacher?
A. I graduated from college with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education. I have since been through
countless trainings and continuing education opportunities in order to consistently learn and
grow as a professional. My school has a strong ABA presence and affords me the opportunity to
learn from some of the best behavior professionals on a daily basis.
dynamic learning experience for the entire
community.
Sponsors include Duval County Public Schools,
Jax4Kids.com and others, including the founding
sponsor, The Foundation Academy (www.
FoundationAcademy.com) and the charter, private
and home school participants. j
www.JacksonvilleScienceFestival.org
Call: 904-473-3535
Email: [email protected]
Page 13 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
Q. What are some of your responsibilities?
A. Currently, I teach a classroom of 5 children for half of the day and co-teach a classroom of
9 children for the other half. I am responsible for giving my students access to a full curriculum,
to include English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. While not all of
my students are working at grade level, it is my job to expose all of the students to what they
would see in the general education setting at their chronological grade level. I also create and
implement Individualized Learning Plans with goals to cater to each child’s specific needs. As a
Special Educator, it is also my job to follow Behavior Treatment Plans in order to ensure a safe
and positive learning environment for all of my students.
Q. What do you like most about your job?
A. There is nothing that can replace the fulfillment that I feel when a lightbulb goes off in a
student’s head and they grasp a concept that has been challenging for them. I feel immense
pride as I watch progress happening right before my eyes. I especially love hearing stories from
the families about the amazing strides their child is making at home as a result of our hard work
at school. It is such a blessing to know that I can positively touch the lives of my students and
their families.
EDUCATION
National Toy Hall of
Fame Adds Honorees
U
nderstanding that play-based educational
programs encourage learning, creativity, and
discovery, The Strong National Museum of Play in
Rochester, N.Y., recognizes toys that have
inspired creative play and enjoyed popularity over
a sustained period. Each year, the museum
inducts new honorees into its National Toy Hall of
Fame. Last year, iridescent bubbles; little green
army men; and the puzzling Rubik’s Cube were
inductees. They were selected from a field of 12
finalists that also included: American Girl dolls,
Fisher-Price Little People, Hess Toy Trucks, My
Little Pony, Operation Skill Game, paper airplanes,
pots and pans, Slip‘N Slide, and Teenage Mutant
Ninja Turtles.
BUBBLES: The origin of soap bubbles is anything
but transparent. People in Europe manufactured
high quality soaps by the 16th century, but no
documentation exists of the first use of soap
bubbles for fun. However, during the
17th century, the
earliest paintings
of children
playing with
bubbles
appeared in
the region of
Flanders (now part
of modern-day Belgium). In
the 19th century, London soap maker A. & F.
Pears created an advertising campaign featuring
a painting of a child playing with bubbles.
Bubbles later inspired the well-known song “I’m
Forever Blowing Bubbles” in 1919, which became
a hit in New York City’s Tin Pan Alley. In 1984,
architect David Stein created the first giant
bubble maker—Bubble Thing (a small, fabric loop
producing bubbles more than 50-feet long).
Today, retailers sell more than 200 million bottles
of this inexpensive and clean toy annually.
RUBIK’S CUBE: Hungarian lecturer and architect
Erno Rubik invented the cube in the early 1970s
and patented his puzzling creation. Ideal Toy
Corporation brought the cube to the United
States, where it intrigued mathematicians and
children alike. Between 1980 and 1982, Ideal
sold more than 100 million Rubik’s Cubes. Books
written about how to solve the cube once held
first, second, and third place on the New York
Times bestseller list of paperbacks. Rubik’s Cube
even inspired songs and its own Saturday
morning television program. By some estimates,
more than 500 million people have tried to
unscramble one of the cubes. The colorful cubes
can be arranged 43 quintillion (a number with six
commas) ways and have inspired organized
competitions in more than 50 countries. The
current speed champ, Mats Valk of The Netherlands, solved the cube in 5.55 seconds. There are
also official trials for solving it
blindfolded, one-handed, underwater
with one
breath, and
with one’s
feet.
To date, the
following 56 toys have made
it into the Toy Hall of Fame: alphabet blocks, Atari
2600 Game System, baby doll, ball, Barbie,
bicycle, Big Wheel, blanket, bubbles, Candy Land,
cardboard box, checkers, chess, Crayola Crayons,
dollhouse, dominoes, Duncan Yo-Yo, Easy-Bake
Oven, Erector Set, Etch A Sketch, Frisbee, The
Game of Life, G. I. Joe, Hot Wheels, hula hoop,
jack-in-the-box, jacks, jigsaw puzzle, jump rope,
kite, LEGO, Lincoln Logs, Lionel Trains, little green
army men, marbles, Monopoly, Mr. Potato Head,
Nintendo Game Boy, Play-Doh, playing cards,
Radio Flyer Wagon, Raggedy Ann and Andy,
LITTLE GREEN ARMY MEN: Made of molded
rocking horse, roller skates, rubber duck, Rubik’s
plastic and standing 2 to 4 inches tall, little green Cube, Scrabble, Silly Putty, skateboard, Slinky,
army men marched onto the toy scene in 1938.
Star Wars action figures, stick, teddy bear,
They evolved from the metal and lead toy soldiers Tinkertoy, Tonka Trucks, and View-Master.
of previous centuries, but these new combatants
represented soldiers in the mid-20th century
Anyone can nominate a toy for annual induction
United States military (mostly army infantry).
into the National Toy Hall of Fame. An internal
Later, manufacturers produced French, German,
museum advisory committee comprised of
Japanese, and other variants to battle across
curators, and historians reviews the submitted
backyards and make-believe nations. Little green nominations and determines which toys meet the
army men suffered a decline in popularity during criteria for selection. A national selection
the Vietnam War, but their sales increased in the
committee then reviews the list of toy finalists.
1980s and 1990s. In 1995, they hit the big
Each committee member votes for his or her top
screen in Pixar’s Toy Story—and they appeared
toy picks, with those receiving the most votes
in two more Toy Story films. Today, multiple
making the cut. j
manufacturers produce millions of little green
army men annually, and they continue to prompt museumofplay.org.
narratives of heroism and daring in children’s
imaginations.
Page 14 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
Kids really do say the funniest things! Please share your favorites with us by e-mailing your
story directly to [email protected]. One entry each month will be turned into a cartoon to
be published in the next issue of Jax4Kids. We’ll send you the original cartoon as a keepsake.
est.1988
Page 15 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
Tuition Free STEM-Focused public charter school
serving K-8 students
middle school. While any exposure is good,
studies show that kids who experience
STEM early through hands-on learning
are the ones who will be best equipped
to develop a thorough understanding of
these concepts as they get older.
This data bolsters River City Science
Academy Innovation’s purpose of preparing
early learners for a more rigorous and
rewarding high school experience.
The following are highlights of the schools’
academic priorities and programs:
River City Science Academy Innovation,
a tuition-free K-8 Duval County charter
school focused on a STEM (science,
technology, engineering, and mathematics) curriculum, is now accepting applications for kindergarten through eighth
grade classes for the 2015-16 school
year. Open since the 2013 school year,
it is located at 8313 Baycenter Rd.,
Jacksonville, FL 32256
All applications must be received no
later than noon on Sunday, March 1.
Successful applicants will be placed in a
lottery for the open slots. The lottery will
be held at 4 p.m. Friday, March 13, at the
River City Academy Middle-High School
media center, 7565 Beach Blvd. (next to
the Hart Bridge Expressway). Winners
will have two weeks to register. Those
not selected will be put on a waiting list.
Innovation is a branch of the highly
successful River City Science Academy
Charter School organization that has
been serving Duval County students
since 2007. Since its inception, River City
Science Academy has set a high standard
of excellence and has become a leader in
the school choice movement. It graduated
its first high school class in 2013 and now
serves 1,400 Duval County students in
grades K-12 at 3 schools: River City
Science Academy Middle/High School,
River City Science Academy Elementary
(opened 2010), and River City Science
Academy Innovation.
The River City Science Academy has not
only been repeatedly designated as an
“A” school, but has also been recognized
as a High-Performing Charter School by
the Florida Department of Education.
It is proud to be the first charter school
in the history of Duval County to earn
both of these distinctions.
For its students, River City Science
Academy has been successful by
providing the best of both worlds;
a private school atmosphere with
small class sizes and uniforms in a
tuition-free public school setting.
The school’s innovative STEM-focused
curriculum, which includes both a
dual-enrollment program with FSCJ as
well as AP classes that allow students
an opportunity to earn college credits
while still in high school is the primary
draw for most students. Others are
attracted by the sense of community
that exists between the faculty, staff,
students, and their families.
The advantages of a STEM-based
education are well documented.
Successful graduates are headed for
an ever-growing market loaded with
high-income occupations. Data from
the U.S. Bureau of Labor shows that
employment in occupations related to
STEM is projected to grow to more than
9 million by 2022. That’s an increase of
more than 1 million jobs over current
levels. Overall, STEM occupations are
projected to grow faster than the average
for all occupations, and wages in these
occupations were generally higher than
the median for all occupations in May, 2013.
Usually when we discuss STEM education,
it centers on an introduction to engineering
and technology concepts starting in
Page 16 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
“A clear focus on academic excellence: River City Science Academy Innovation
will provide state-of-the art curricula that
were designated as exemplary by the U.S.
Department of Education in mathematics
and science as well as rigorous reading
programs. The delivery of the curricula
will be enhanced by innovative and
balanced instructional methods,
such as project-based instruction,
computer-enhanced activities,
contextual learning, direct instruction,
and self-directed learning. Academic
excellence will be facilitated by a team
of well-qualified faculty and instructors,
and it will be supported by collaboration
with parents and partnerships as well
as local higher-education and civic
institutions.
A comprehensive assessment program:
A variety of student assessments,
including state assessment programs,
unit tests developed locally, classroombased assessments, and school climate
surveys will be used to evaluate teaching
and learning processes of students and
to improve the school’s academic
environment on a regular basis.
Supporting maturity and independence: The school will strive to foster
self-confidence, self-respect, and
self-control in each student through
group process skills and cooperative
learning, the development of conflict
resolution skills, and the expectation of
accepting responsibility for one’s actions.
The academic environment will promote
high expectations of each student in the
pursuit of excellence (e.g., through
participation in academic competitions
and mathematics and science olympiads)
and skills needed for life-long learning
(e.g., through effective computer skills
to use the global information highway).
Providing balance: Educational programs
at River City Science Academy will educate
the whole child by providing a rigorous
education in math, science, and technology,
with a strong emphasis on reading;
encouraging serious exploration of the
arts and humanities; developing student
awareness of local and community needs
as well as an understanding of national
and global issues; and striving to reach
academic excellence for all the students
while at the same time recognizing
individual differences.
The school believes that each student
has a natural curiosity and love of
learning and that each child has a limitless
intellectual level, ability level, and learning
style. Therefore, students at the school will
strive for their highest levels of intellectual
and learning abilities in an educational
context, which concentrates on students’
individual learning styles and life-long
love of learning.”
Apply at: www.rivercityscience.org/innovation
St. Johns County School District News
St. Johns County Teachers of the Year
The 2014-2015 Teachers of the Year and Rookie
Teachers of the Year have been selected from
each of the district’s 38 schools. These nominees
represent the very best among St. Johns County
School District teachers. Their colleagues have
selected them for this prestigious honor, and they
will advance to compete for the countywide title.
Nominations for the 2014-2015 Rookie Teacher
of the Year have been submitted by 35 of the district’s schools. Eligible teachers must have taught
TEACHERS OF THE YEAR
Allen D. Nease High School – Mollie Altick-Magill
Bartram Trail High School – Jeff Davis
Creekside High School – Jamie Godfrey
Crookshank Elementary – Renata H. Russell
Cunningham Creek Elementary – Mary Karen
Stanfield
Durbin Creek Elementary – Nena Thomas
First Coast Tech. College – Daniel C. Lundberg
Fruit Cove Middle School – Teresa McCormick
Gaines Alternative & Transition – Dan Stevens
Gamble Rogers Middle School – Kevin Gamble
Hartley Elementary – Donna Merle Boggess
Hickory Creek Elementary – Laura Eads
Julington Creek Elementary – Melissa Dillard
Ketterlinus Elementary – Curtis L. Lewis, II
Landrum Middle School – Jen Lynn Smith
Liberty Pines Academy – Stephen Kirsch
Mill Creek Elementary – Jennifer Tiller
Oceans Palm Elementary – Margaret (Peg)
Daniels
Osceola Elementary – Kimberly Hinman
Otis Mason Elementary – Sally Cunningham
Pacetti Bay Middle School – Allison Birbal
Palencia Elementary – Sean Michael Farnum
Patriot Oaks Academy – Michaela Durnin
Pedro Menendez High School – Patricia Kay
Smith
Ponte Vedra High School – Katilyn Gormley Collazo
PVPV Rawlings Elementary – Linda Suppa
RB Hunt Elementary School – Alison Lee Wheeler
RJ Murray Middle School – Barbara A. Scarpa
Sebastian Middle School – Carlton H. Barber
less than three years. This is the eighth year that
the Rookie Teacher of the Year competition has
been held. These nominees represent the top of
their profession among new teachers, and will go
on to compete for the countywide title.
The overall winner will be announced at the
annual Teacher of the Year and Rookie Teacher
of the Year Celebration on Wednesday, Feb. 4 at
the Renaissance Resort at the World Golf Village.
The St. Johns County Teacher of the Year will
South Woods Elementary School – Peggy Dwyer
St. Augustine High School – Clark “Chip” Johnston
St. Johns County Virtual School – Elizabeth Lasseter
St. Johns Technical High School – Juliet Hart
Switzerland Point Middle – Frank “Charles”
Moseley, Jr.
The Webster School – Amanda Devany
Timberlin Creek Elementary – Andrea Dieckman
Valley Ridge Academy – Rachel Sandler
Wards Creek Elementary – Renee Tatman
ROOKIE TEACHERS OF THE YEAR
Allen D. Nease High School – Amber Linskey
Bartram Trail High School – Kathryn Wetzel
Creekside High School – Reed Jones
Crookshank Elementary – Kayla Noftell
Cunningham Creek Elementary – Jennifer
Whalen
First Coast Tech. College – Michael A. White
Important Dates
Monday February 2
Teacher Inservice Day - Student Holiday
Monday March 23
then be included for consideration as the Florida
Department of Education Macy’s Teacher of the
Year 2015.
The awards banquet is produced by the St. Johns
County Education Foundation (SJCEF) to recognize excellence in the teaching profession and is
sponsored, in part, by THE PLAYERS Championship, Beaver Toyota/Scion and Leonard’s Studios.
Gamble Rogers Middle School – Melissa L.
Gaspard
Hartley Elementary – John “Hank” Samuels
Hickory Creek Elementary – Megan Richards
Julington Creek Elementary – Katie Root
Ketterlinus Elementary – Sandy Wallace
Landrum Middle School – Beau Hogan
Liberty Pines Academy – Angela Grace Rudd
Mill Creek Elementary – Kristin Orr
Oceans Palm Elementary – Nicole Mackowiak
Osceola Elementary – Allison Oester
Otis Mason Elementary – Inez Patronska
Pacetti Bay Middle School – Hannah Hollis
Palencia Elementary – Sabrina Morgan Delatorre
Patriot Oaks Academy – Elizabeth King
Pedro Menendez High School – Susannah Jones
Ponte Vedra High School – Jakob Wisdom
PVPV Rawlings Elementary – Christopher
Woolston
RB Hunt Elementary School – Hillary Childs
RJ Murray Middle School –Tina M. Hemby
Sebastian Middle School – Luke Sturgis
South Woods Elementary School – Amanda
“Mandy” Murdock
St. Augustine High School – Parker Raimann
St. Johns Technical High School –Tamara M.
Birch
Switzerland Point Middle – Meagan Collier
The Webster School – Ashley Fee
Timberlin Creek Elementary – Jean Marie
Debees
Transition School – Suzanne Sinnwell
Valley Ridge Academy – Magan Curtis
Wards Creek Elementary – Emmaleigh Boardway
Get
Your Science
Fair Projects
Ready
The 2015 St. Johns County Science Fair is set for
Tuesday, February 10 from 8:30 a.m. to noon at
Sebastian Middle School. The awards ceremony
is Wednesday, February 11 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
in the Sebastian Middle School auditorium with
Exhibit Hall viewing open from 6 to 6:30 p.m.
Projects will be selected through the regional
fair’s scientific review committee for competition
at the State Science & Engineering Fair of Florida
scheduled for March 31-April 2 in Lakeland. One
of the state selected projects will be chosen to
participate in the international science fair scheduled for May 10-15 in Pittsburg, Pa. Participation
in the fair is open to St. Johns County public,
private and home school students in grades 6-12.
Marna Fox, program specialist for K-12 science,
physical education and health, is the district science fair coordinator.
Classes Resume for Students
Monday - Friday March 23
May 8, 2015 FSA ELA and Mathematics (Grades
3-11)
Monday February 16
Presidents Day - Student/Teacher Holiday Friday April 3
Student/Teacher Holiday
Monday - Friday March 2-13 FSA ELA Writing Component (Grades 4-11) Monday May 25
Memorial Day - Student/Teacher Holiday
Thursday March 12
Third Quarter Ends
Friday - Saturday May 29 and 30 Graduations (Schools/Locations TBD)
Friday March 13
Teacher Planning Day-Student Holiday
Thursday June 4
Last Day for Students
Monday - Friday March 16-20 Spring Break - Student/Teacher Holiday Friday June 5
Last Day for Teachers - Teacher Planning Day
Follow us on Twitter
Visit St. Johns County Schools online at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/schools/ for more information.
Page 17 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
Clay County School News
Get Ready for the Fair
It’s that time of year and another
successful pig tag-in for the annual
Clay County Agricultural Fair is in the
books! Middleburg High School FFA
members were on hand to help get
more than 95 exhibitor and alternate pigs tagged-in. The Middleburg
chapter’s pig, “Jimmy Dean”, will
be in pen #8 this year. The 2015 fair
opens on April 2 and closes April 11.
The theme is “Farm Fresh Family Tradition” which “emphasizes our mission and focus on agriculture, family
and their importance to our community,” fair officials said. The deadline
for entries to the Miss Clay County
Scholarship Pageant, a new event
this year, is March 3. See claycountyfair.org for complete information.
County Teachers Ranked
8th in State
School Calendar
Monday, February 16
Pesidents’ Day, Student/Teacher Holiday
Thursday, March 12
End Third Grading Period (45 days)
Friday, March 13
Planning Day, Student Holiday
Monday, March 16 through
Friday, March 20
Spring Break, Student/Teacher Holidays
Monday, March 23
Students Return to School
Friday, April 3
Good Friday, Student/Teacher Holiday
Monday, April 6
Easter Monday/Fair Day, Student/Teacher Holiday
Monday, May 25
Memorial Day (Observed), Student/Teacher Holiday
Wednesday, June 3
Last Day, Students (4th Grading Period – 50 days)
Thursday, June 4
Last Day, Teachers – Planning Day
Page 18 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
Recently released VAM (Value Added Model)
scores indicate that Clay County teachers are
among the top in the state – the county ranked
8th. VAM is a complex formula used to measure
student growth. The score determined by a
complicated algorithm that measures students’
growth in a variety of academic areas as
compared to their peers. It takes into account
how a teacher’s students perform in relation
to how similar students of a different teacher
perform. The county evaluates teachers using the
Clay Assessment System (CAS), with VAM scores
as one component.
www.oneclay.net
OP/Middleburg (904) 272-8100
Green Cove Springs (904) 284-6500
Keystone Heights (888) 663-2529
TDD (904) 284-6584
The top ten schools’ scores were:
1. Clay County High School – 39.94%
2. Fleming Island High School – 36.95%
3. Fleming Island Elementary – 34.17%
4. Lakeshore Elementary – 26.83%
5. Coppergate Elementary – 21.76%
6. Tynes Elementary – 19.11%
7. Montclair Elementary – 17.37%
8. Grove Park Elementary – 16.82%
9. Ridgeview High School – 16.43%
10. W. E. Cherry Elementary – 15.21%
Connect with us!
twitter.com/oneclayschools • and • www.facebook.com/OneClay
EDUCATION
Hone Study Skills and Improve Grades
L
istening skills and note-taking are key to
obtaining and retaining knowledge. Study
Despite the fact that there are so many different
habit experts at numerous colleges and universi- approaches, these techniques can you maximize
ties agree that if students intend to learn what is your note-taking ability:
taught in class, they must listen, take notes, and
review. Simply showing up but not listening (day
• Go to lecture prepared to listen. Sit near the
dreaming, reading sleeping, etc.) is hardly
front, have your materials with you, be up to
different from skipping class. Students need to be
date with your reading, and be rested and
purposeful listeners.
ready to engage.
• Be on the lookout for hints to how the lecture
Consider the following ideas to improve listening
will be organized. Maybe the professor
skills:
has supplied an outline, used the board or
overhead, offered a verbal introduction or
• Be prepared to listen from the start of lecture.
posted a power point presentation online.
When you arrive late or are slow to engage,
• Expect to paraphrase the instructor.
you may miss a lot of important information.
• Use abbreviations and symbols to reduce
It is often the beginning of a lecture where
the amount of writing you do. Start now to
important new information is introduced or
develop a system that is meaningful to you.
clarifications from the last class are offered.
Use abbreviations like “b/c” for because,
Go into lecture planning to concentrate.
“w/o” for without, “imp.” for important. You
• Engage with the speaker. Form reactions to
might also make use of arrows, equal signs,
what you hear, anticipate where the lecturer
greater and less-than signs, and the like.
may be going, and think through what you are • Don’t worry about neatness, style, or even
hearing.
spelling. Keep writing. These notes are for
• Listen and watch for key words, phrases,
your use and nothing else. It is far more
diagrams, or voice inflections that indicate
important that they are complete than neat.
importance or emphasis.
As long as you can understand them, all is
• Listen to discriminate between the major idea
well.
and the illustrative material and examples
• Listen for key words, phrases, or lists.
used to clarify.
Words such as “effects,” “factors,”
• Do the reading before class so you can relate
“reasons,” “steps,” “uses,” “causes,’ or
what you hear to what you know.
“characteristics” are just a few of the words
• Understand that instructors differ in their
that should grab your attention. Phrases like
abilities to teach and present information. Do
“you need to know this,” “this will be on the
not allow the perceived shortcomings of a
test,” “this is an important idea,” “is defined
lecture become your excuse for not listening.
as,” or “remember this” should do likewise.
Devise a plan and direct your energies toward
Also listen for words that indicate order such
efforts to succeed.
as “first,” “next,” “also,” or “finally”.
• Sit near the front. Choosing to sit in the back
• Organize notes by blocking ideas, creating
of the class may make it more difficult to
outlines, using indentations, drawing
pay attention. It may also reinforce your own
diagrams and charts, and making use of
feelings of indifference.
margins. As time goes on, you will develop a
system that is meaningful to you.
Good listening leads to good note-taking skills.
• If you get behind, write in a keyword or
Note taking serves two main purposes:
phrase and leave a space. Later consult with
the instructor, teaching assistant, or a friend
1) The act of writing causes you to process the
to fill in the blank.
information and consider it a second time, and
• After the lecture, take the time to review your
notes. This method will give you time to flesh2) Lecture notes provide you with the material
out any gaps, and the review helps imbed the
you will depend on later as you begin the review
information more fully in your memory.
process.
• Later on as you begin test preparation,
reduce these notes further into outlines, note
Because your memory is aided by actually writing
cards, charts, and diagrams as a means of
the notes, taking your own notes is a far more
facilitating mastery.
effective study strategy than getting notes from a
friend or a note-taking service. In classes where
Once you have a complete set of notes, commit
course notes are provided, use these materials as the information to memory. When you review
a way to preview the lecture and to listen for
course material, you are trying to move the
important points. But remember, it is important to information from your short-term memory to your
engage in a lecture on many levels, so be sure to long-term memory. Typically, a person must deal
add to these notes in your own way.
with information at least three times in order to
There are probably as many different ways to
succeed in this process. If you don’t engage in
conceptualize note taking as there are people
timely reviews, you remember less and less of
taking notes. Since these notes are often central the original information. This adds extra learning
to exam preparation, you want to give your full
time, as you will need to re-expose yourself to
attention to collecting them in an organized and
material before the process can begin again.
thorough fashion. It is critical that what you
According to researchers for the University of
record today be useful to you in the future.
Iowa, after one day people typically remember
Page 19 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
about 54 percent of what they first heard. After
seven days the amount retained drops to 35
percent and after a month it drops further to 19
percent. This decline underscores the importance
of performing daily and weekly reviews of lecture
and reading notes as a means of keeping
information fresh in your mind.
The following are some helpful memory hints are
designed to facilitate your handling of the
material in a variety of ways (The key to memory
is to engage in timely, multiple exposures of
varying types):
• Intend to remember. Take the time, as soon
as reasonably possible, to begin working with
the new information.
• Understand the information. It is nearly
impossible to memorize material that makes
no sense to you. Clear up any areas of
confusion before you begin to try and commit
information to memory.
• Organize the information. When possible,
use charts, graphs, time-lines, maps, and
outlines to lend structure to your study. Often
the ability to visualize this structure will spur
your memory of content. Categorizing can be
a great aid in memory. Try to keep groups no
larger than seven items.
• Use note cards. Put information on 3 X 5 note
cards and carry them with you. Flip through
them during those moments waiting for the
bus, just before class starts, etc. Start out
with five cards, learn them, and add two
more. Keep adding two to the stack until you
have learned them all.
• Use recitation. Explain ideas to yourself in
your own words. Repeat these explanations
out loud. Saying them and hearing them
seem to help. You might even consider taping
information and playing it back on a portable
voice-recording device.
• Create visual images. When possible,
systematically create visual images to
associate with people, places, or events.
By improving listening and note-taking skills and
increasing review time utilizing several methods,
in-class time become a productive and regular
part of getting and maintaining stellar grades. j
Uiowa.edu: The Academic Advising Center at the
University of Iowa serves more than 8,000
students.
EDUCATION
Teaching Tips Are Applicable for Every Caregiver
A
ll caregivers are teachers regardless of
whether they are teaching academics in a
classroom or raising a child at home. Parents and
caregivers in a home setting teach kids all kinds of
things about life – how to clean up after themselves,
how to stay safe, how to treat others, how to
approach the world, how to behave, etc. As such,
caregivers have to rely upon their teaching style to
convey the lessons they’re teaching. A lot of
research has been done on ways for parents and
teachers to effectively teach children and manage
their behavior (Walker and Walker, 1991; Barkley,
1997; Latham, 1994).
The following teaching tips are applicable to
anything from science to reading to manners to
cleaning a room:
1. Be clear about what you want: Speak directly,
preferably in a single sentence, and say what to do,
rather than what NOT to do. Caregivers often make
the mistake of saying “Don’t do ___.” The problem
with saying “stop” is that caregivers are not
providing direct suggestions. The biggest deficits for
any child is inhibition and critical, abstract thinking.
This rule applies regardless of whether the child is
typically developing or the child has developmental,
behavioral, and/or emotional issues. With that in
mind, why tell a kid “Don’t ___” when holding back
is one of their biggest challenges? Why be vague
and hope that the child or teen guesses which of the
dozens of ways to act in that situation? Clarity
counts. For example, say “Throw that away” instead
of “Don’t chew on that plastic.” Say “Sit down” or
“Get off the couch” instead of “Don’t jump on the
couch!”
2. Say it, don’t ask it: In polite society, many adults
ask each other to do things and these adults often
do it. However, when working with children or teens,
questions make it seem that the child has a choice
of whether to follow the instruction. The rule that I
always tell others is “Ask a question if the child will
have a choice, but tell them directly what to do if
you want them to do the instruction regardless.” It’s
fine to ask if your child wants any peas, as long as
they have a choice to say “no.” However, if you’re
not going to honor a “no thanks” when you ask your
child to do their homework or go to bed, then you
should just tell them directly “Start on your
homework” or “Time for bed – goodnight!”
3. Give calm instructions: Many think that giving
loud or angry instructions are best, but often, such
instructions immediately startle or evoke a stress
response in children. The stress response is also
known as “fight or flight.” The last thing that anyone
needs is for their child or teen to get prepared to
fight or flee them when given an instruction.
Further, if caregivers lose their temper when they
give instructions, it shows children and teens that
the best way to be powerful is to lose control of
Page 20 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
their emotions. It’s a dangerous lesson, since
children who see this take the lesson to heart and
try to be powerful themselves by doing the same
thing. Caregivers don’t need to be sugary sweet and
say “pretty please” when they give an instruction,
just use a normal conversational tone and don’t lose
your top.
4. Get their attention before instructions: Go up
to your child or teen, get their eye contact, make
sure they’re not distracted, then tell them what you
need to have done. Caregivers – especially parents
– often believe that if they’ve said an instruction,
then the child has heard it and is critically thinking
about it, so they should begin immediately. This
leads to a lot of frustration when the child does not
get started immediately, and may result in the
parent getting loud, angry, or just giving up.
However, caregivers often give instructions from
across the room or while the child is occupied with
a toy or other task. Giving instructions while the
child is distracted makes instructions to work (like
“Put your clean clothes away”) compete with the
excitement level of the distraction (like the movie
“Frozen” or “The Avengers”). Although I completely
agree that putting clothes away or doing homework
are extremely important life tasks, I can’t imagine
these tasks being exciting enough to take on “Iron
Man,” cartoons, videogames, or “ High School
Musical (2,3,4).”
5. Make it pay off to do the right thing: Make sure
that a child or teen gets a direct demonstration that
you approve of their behavior by being affectionate
verbally (Great work, you did it!), physically
affectionate (high five, pat on the back, hugs), or
with a privilege (You finished your worksheet, take a
break). I’ve heard many caregivers ask “Why treat
them as special when they do what they’re
supposed to be doing anyways?” I often ask them
“If you stopped getting paid to work, would you
keep going to your job day after day?” The answer
is inevitably “No” or “Only because I get…”
something like academic credit, resume experience,
or to have something else that’s fulfilling, like to
cuddle time with puppies. If we wouldn’t work for
free (even though we know how to do something,
we know that other people want it to get done, and
that society may ultimately be better if we do our
part), then we shouldn’t ask kids to work for free
either. We don’t have to pay them cash to do the
right thing, but we can’t inspire appropriate behavior
without at least giving approval, affection, or some
form of excitement for their efforts. j
Andrew Scherbarth, Ph.D., BCBA-D
Licensed Psychologist | Board Certified Behavior
Analyst
Keystone Behavioral Pediatrics
6867 Southpoint Drive North, Suite 106
Jacksonville, Florida 32216
Phone: 904.619.6071
Special needs
Things to Do
Special Needs
Adaptive Aquatics
February 2 – February 26
Every Tuesday and Thursday, 5pm – 5:45pm
Adaptive Aquatics is a swim technique program. The
program focuses on swim skills and water safety
for children ages 5 – 10 with physical disabilities.
Child must be able to sit on pool edge, follow simple
instructions, and take turns. Registration is $45.
For more information call or email Alison.Nuckols@
Brooksrehab.org. www.brookshealth.org / 904-3457600 x4721 /Brooks Rehab Hospital, 3599 University
Blvd South
Sensory Aquatics
February 2 – February 26
Every Monday and Wednesday, 6pm – 6:45pm
Sensory Aquatics is a sensory exploration and play
program. The program focuses on sensory exploration, socialization and play skills in the aquatic
setting for children 8 -12 with physical, sensory, and/
or cognitive impairments. Child must be able to sit
on pool edge, follow simple instructions, and take
turns. Registration is $45. For more information call
or email [email protected]. www.
brookshealth.org / 904-345-7600 x4721 /Brooks
Rehab Hospital, 3599 University Blvd South
Night to Shine 2015
February 13, 6pm – 8:30pm
The 2nd Annual Special Needs Prom at Christ’s
Church Mandarin. This prom is for anyone 13 and
older with developmental or physical impairments.
Each participant paired with a buddy. Great opportunity to get dressed up and have a limo ride and walk
a red carpet and get free portraits. Sign up now to
attend OR volunteer. www.nighttoshinejax.com / 904886-8228 / Christ’s Church, 6045 Greenland Rd
Believe Autism Dance/Art Classes
February 14
9:30am – 10:30am (3 – 4 year olds)
10:30am – 11:30am (5 – 12 year olds)
11:30am – 12:30am (13 and older)
Dance/Art classes for children on the Autism Spectrum (siblings and friends welcome!). Art rotation of
30 minutes and dance rotation of 30 minutes. Art
activities will be new each week or a small art project
that will be worked on week to week until complete.
The dance rotation will consist of creative movement and social opportunities. Classes are taught by
Crystal Thompson, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst
(BCBA) and ballet, tap, and jazz dancer. Classes cost
$10.00 and are held at The Performers Academy.
Space is limited. To RSVP call or email [email protected]. www.facebook.com/believeautism
/ 704-277-1884 / The Performers Academy, 3674
Beach Blvd
Field of Dreams Baseball Opening Day
February 14, 9am
Field of Dreams is a specially designed turf baseball field that allow mentally or physically disabled
children living in or near St Johns the opportunity to
play baseball, to wear a uniform (no cost to player)
and play as a member of a team. Field of Dreams
is a place where all the area’s exceptional kids can
meet on the field and play ball. Registration is open
throughout the season to any special needs child
ages 5 – 18 or up to age 21, if still in high school.
Season runs February-April.
www.fodbaseball.com / Games played at Aberdeen
Park, 1401 Shetland Dr
Henderson Haven - Mom’s Day Off
February 14, 4pm - 10pm
Henderson Haven is offering a Mom’s Day off on
select Saturdays for children with developmental
disabilities. Children will participate in crafts and
spend time with their peers and the experienced
staff. The cost is $30. You must reserve your place
ahead of time by checking the Program Calendar on
the website. Reservations will be accepted between
the Monday after the current scheduled day and the
Wednesday before the next one. www.hendersonhaven.org / 904-264-2522 / 772 Foxridge Center Dr
Sensory Friendly Films – Spongebob Square
Pants: Sponge Out of Water
February 14, 10am
AMC Entertainment (AMC) and ASA have teamed up
to bring families affected by autism and other disabilities a special opportunity to enjoy their favorite
films in a safe and accepting environment on a
monthly basis. Lights are brought up, sound is turned
down, and families are allowed to bring their own
snacks. Movies are shown at the AMC Regency 24 in
the Regency Center Square. www.amctheatres.com/
programs/sensory-friendly-films / 904-725-0885 /
9451 Regency Square Blvd
Growing Up Dyslexic – Jonathan Mooney
February 18, 7pm – 9pm
The Michael and Drew Land Speaker Series –
JFCS & Nemours BrightStart! presents Jonathan
Mooney – Growing Up Dyslexic, Learning Outside
the Lines. Jonathan Mooney is a dyslexic writer who
only learned to read at age 12. He is co-founder of
“Project Eye-to-Eye”, a widely duplicated mentoring
program for disabled students. Jonathan is a graduate of Brown University and holds an honors degree
in English Literature. He was a national Rhodes
scholarship finalist and won the prestigious Truman
Scholarship for graduate studies in creative writing
and education. www.jfcsjax.org / 904-448-1933 /
Held at the Jacksonville Jewish Center, 6261 Dupont
Station Crt E
Tools for Success Conference
February 26, 8am – 3:15pm
The 20th Annual Tools For Success Family Conference is Thursday, February 26, 2015 from 8:00 a.m.
to 3:15 p.m. at the University of North Florida’s Adam
W. Herbert University Center. This conference is for
and about families of children with special needs,
ages birth to 22. Register online here. For more information or special accommodations, contact FDLRS/
Crown at 904-346-4601 ext. 119. www.fdlrscrown.
org / 904-346-4601 ext. 119 / UNF, Herbert University
Center – 12000 Alumni Dr
NFSSE 5th Annual Walking Tree 1 Mile Fun Walk/
Run • February 28, 10am
This year, NFSSE will celebrate by hosting the event
through the “Walking Tree Trails” located on their
newly acquired property adjacent to the school on
Mill Creek Road. The property is five beautiful acres
with sprawling oak trees and winding, shaded trails.
Join in at the Walking Tree as we unveil the new
property that will ultimately become the site of additional academic classrooms, a culinary kitchen, a
gymnasium, library, onsite therapies, art and music
classrooms. This is an exciting time with many opportunities on the horizon for the children and young
adults who attend North Florida School of Special
Education. All are welcome and there are no registration fees to participate. For more information please
contact Judy Miller at [email protected].
www.northfloridaschool.org / 904-724-8326 / NFSSE
Campus Walking Trails, 223 Mill Creek Rd
Visit Jax4Kids.com for more event listings.
Page 21 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
EDUCATE.
ENGAGE.
INSPIRE.
NOW ENROLLING
Summer Camp &
Fall 2015 Enrollment
Clinical Outpatient
1:1 ABA Therapy
Academic, Primary,
Secondary, Vocational
Beautiful campus
right off I-95/Baymeadows
Call (904) 732-4343 or visit www.JSAKIDS.org
9000 Cypress Green Drive
Jacksonville, FL 32256
ADD/ADHD
without MEDICATIONS
The American Academy of Pediatricians
has given neurofeedback the highest
grading of effectiveness for ADD/ADHD.
Provides a non-drug approach for
diagnosing and treating ADD/ADHD
and it is based on research that has been
widely replicated all over the world.
Other benefits include:
• Overcoming academic difficulties
• Progress is maintained once program
is completed
• Better social skills
• Improvement of the emotional climate
at home
BIOFEEDBACK ASSOCIATES
904.646.0054
www.biofeedbackassociates.com
Most Insurances Accepted
Things to Do
teens
Don’t Let Bad Apps Spoil
Your Fun
S
ocial media and smart phone guru and
author Josh Ochs explains the hottest social
media apps, both good and bad on his website
safesmartsocial.com, as well in his books both
named “Light, Bright and Polite.” The latest one
“How to use Social Media to Impress Colleges &
Employers” is aimed at kids and parents. The
other “How Businesses and Professionals can
Safely and Effectively Navigate Social Media” is
aimed at adults.
Some of the featured apps are touted: Snapchat,
Instagram, Facebook, Twitter; and some are not:
Afterschool, AskFM, Whisper, Secret, YikYak,
Vine and KikMessenger. Ochs travels around the
country explaining to parents, kids, teachers and
businesses which are good and which should be
avoided. See the website safesmartsocial.com
for more info. j
On his site and in his books you can learn:
1. How social media can help and/or hurt your
future.
2. How to talk about social media (and when
parents need to get involved).
3. How to create a long-term online image
plan.
4. Common social media mistakes kids everyone makes.
5. How colleges and future employers will
search for you online.
6. Networks that help you own the first page of
your Google results.
7. Social media posts that impress colleges.
8. Online activities that impress future employers.
9. Case studies from successful kids that are
making a difference.
Envirothon Competition
T
he annual Fred Miller Regional Envirothon
Competition will take place on March 5th at
Diamond D Ranch, 5903-1 Solomon Road in
Jacksonville. An Envirothon is an environmentally
themed academic contest for high school
students. A program of the National Conservation
Foundation, Envirothon combines in-class and
hands-on environmental education in a competitive setting (See envirothon.org).
Last year, more than 150 kids from 20 public
and private schools in the Northeast Florida area
participated. Other groups, such as Scout Troops
and church youth groups, are also eligible to
participate. Contact Brian Allen at 904-449-2916
for more information.
Sponsored by Jacksonville City Councilman Jim
Love, the event also gets support from the Duval
County Soil and Water Conservation District
(SWCD) and St. Johns Riverkeeper. j
“Love has nothing to do with what you
are expecting to get — only what you are
expecting to give — which is everything.”
– Katherine Hepburn
Page 22 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
Teens
Internet Safety and Security
February 2, 3pm to 4:30pm
In this class you will learn how to create secure
passwords, avoid internet scams and evaluate
website safety. Receive practical advice and
learn the skills you need to surf the web safely.
Held in Room 419 E-classroom.
Main Branch Library / 904-630-2665 / 303
North Laura Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / jpl.
coj.net
Calling All Youngpreneurs
February 3, 4pm to 5:30pm
February 10, 4pm to 5:30pm
February 24, 4pm to 5:30pm
Workshop for innovative young individuals who
would like to become entrepreneurs. Workshop
includes Mentorship, Networking, Entrepreneur
Resources in partnership with SCORE/SBA.
Held in the Job Resource Lab.
Brown Eastside Branch / 904-630-5466 / 1390
Harrison Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206 / jpl.coj.
net
SAT School Day – Registration Opens
February 4
The SAT – the globally recognized college entrance exam – will be offered to seniors in your
high school on Wednesday, April 15th, 2015.
Online registration for the April 15 SAT opens
on Wednesday, February 4th, 2015. Registering
for the April 15 SAT is easy. You just need three
things: an email account, a free College Board
online account, and an SAT School Day student
voucher. The registration deadline is April 1.
SAT College Board / sat.collegeboard.org/
schoolday/april
Teen Sewing Basics and Lazy Pants
February 7, 2:30pm to 4:30pm
Teen Sewing Basics and Lazy Pants at Joann.
Class is $45 and will be held from 2:30pm to
4:30pm on February 7 and February 14. This is
a two day class. Register in advance.
Joann Fabric and Craft Store / 904-642-2557
/ 10261 River Marsh Drive, Jacksonville, FL
32246 / www.joann.com
Doctor Who Club
February 9, 6:30pm
Teens and tweens are invited for a Doctor Who
Club. There will be games, science, arts &
crafts, treats and cosplay.
Green Cove Springs Library / 904-284-6315 /
403 Ferris St, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 /
www.ccpl.lib.fl.us
Teen Movie Club
February 10, 5pm to 7:30pm
Teens ages 13 to 18 are invited to join the new
Movie Club featuring primarily book-to-movie
adaptations. Come have pizza and sodas, and
decide if the movie lived up to the book. You
don’t have to read the book to come, but the
books are all available in the library. In honor of
Valentine’s Day, this month’s showing will be of
John Green’s book, The Fault in Our Stars, rated
PG-13.
Ponte Vedra Beach Branch Library / 904-8276950 / 101 Library Blvd. Ponte Vedra Beach, FL
32082 / www.sjcpls.org
Babysitters Training Course
February 16, 9am to 3:30pm
Learn to prepare for an emergency if home
alone or babysitting in this one-day class. Valuable safety tips, basic CPR and first aid skills
will be reviewed. For ages 10 to 15. $50 for
members and $75 for non-members.
Jewish Community Alliance / 904-730-2100 /
8505 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32217 /
www.jcajax.org
Women & Teen Girls Safety and Self Defense
February 21, 10am to 1:30pm
The course is designed for the average woman
or teenage girl (age 15+). The tactics are
easy to learn, easy to remember and easy to
employ in the stress of a violent encounter or
the subtle aggression of a “date rape” scenario.
The basics of this system include situational
awareness, preventive measures, risk reduction,
legal issues, alternative weapons, empty hand
fighting techniques and avoidance information. Being more aware and confident significantly reduces your chances of ever becoming
selected as a target of aggression. The course
will include both a presentation of preventative measures, as well as hands-on physical
practice on the floor in escaping attack and
practicing self-defense tactics. Youth must be
15 years or older in order to take this course.
Cost is $55, plus a registration fee. Sign up in
advance online.
Safety First CPR & Safety Training / 904-4346032 / Florida Yacht Club, 5210 Yacht Club Rd,
Jacksonville, FL 32210 / www.safetyfirstjax.
com
Scrapbooking Workshop for Teens/Tweens
February 21, 10am to 12noon
Teens and tweens are invited for a scrapbooking workshop. No registration is required.
However, participants are asked to bring photos,
clippings, scrapbooking paper, etc., to work on
their project. Please also bring a roll of doublesided tape to mount your photos. Mothers and
Grandmothers and Adults who like to scrapbook
are welcome to join the group. Held in the
meeting room.
Flagler County Public Library / 386-446-6763 /
2500 Palm Coast Parkway NW, Palm Coast, FL
32137 / www.flaglercounty.org
Visit Jax4Kids.com for more event listings.
health & safety
E-Readers Getting a
Bum Rap
A
Dirty Dozen Guide to
Food Additives
T
new study has claimed that light-emitting
e-readers “negatively affect sleep, circadian
timing and next-morning alertness” when used in
the evening. However, those reading the resulting
coverage should look into the details before
worrying too much.
suppression of melatonin secretion by nocturnal
light exposure with “the increased risk of breast,
colorectal, and advanced prostate cancer associated with night-shift work… which has now been
classified as a probable carcinogen by the World
Health Organization.”
The study in the Proceedings of the National
Academy of Sciences, lead to scary headlines
such as: “E-readers ‘damage sleep and health,’
doctors warn”; “Keep That E-Reader Out of
Bed and You’ll Feel Better in the Morning”; and
“Before Bed, Switch Off The E-Reader And Pick
Up A Paperback”.
But again, there’s a huge difference between an
iPad and an e-ink reader such as those in the
Amazon Kindle, Kobo or Barnes & Noble Nook
ranges. The study does not once mention e-ink
e-readers. The iPad was also “set to maximum
brightness throughout the four-hour reading
session, whereas, by comparison, the print-book
condition consisted of reflected exposure to very
dim light.”
1. Nitrates and nitrites – meat preservatives
that can form cancer-causing compounds.
Charles Czeisler, director of the Division of Sleep
Medicine at Harvard Medical School, who coauthored the study, told the Washington Post that
the “standard Kindle” would provide an exception to the study’s findings as it does not emit
light and was more like reading a paper book.
A Vox interview with lead author Anne-Marie
Chang suggests that the research was conducted
between 2010 and 2011, when even the original,
non-illuminated Kindle was pretty new and paper
books made a better point of comparison.
5. Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) – preservative with cancer links.
The key problem with this study and the more
alarmist stories that followed, is that when it says
“e-reader”, it means “Apple iPad”. An iPad at full
brightness, no less. When you hear “e-reader”,
you tend to think “dedicated e-reader” – an e-ink
device without a backlit screen — rather than a
multi-purpose tablet. And there’s a big difference.
The screens of devices such as tablets and
smartphones have long been known to emit
short-wavelength light, also known as blue light.
All light can suppress the secretion of melatonin
– the hormone that controls our day-night cycles
– in the evening and night-time, but blue light
has a particularly pronounced effect and previous studies have shown that it’s best avoided at
night.
The new study, conducted on a small group
of 12 participants, adds to these earlier studies by comparing the effects of a light-emitting
“e-book” (iPad) with those of a paper book. The
researchers found printed books were definitely
safer, writing:
“The use of light-emitting electronic devices for
reading, communication, and entertainment has
greatly increased recently. We found that the use
of these devices before bedtime prolongs the
time it takes to fall asleep, delays the circadian
clock, suppresses levels of the sleep-promoting
hormone melatonin, reduces the amount and
delays the timing of REM sleep, and reduces
alertness the following morning. Use of lightemitting devices immediately before bedtime
also increases alertness at that time, which may
lead users to delay bedtime at home. Overall,
we found that the use of portable light-emitting
devices immediately before bedtime has biological effects that may perpetuate sleep deficiency
and disrupt circadian rhythms, both of which can
have adverse impacts on performance, health,
and safety.”
There has been no mention at all of e-ink readers
that are not backlit but that are illuminated, such
as the Kindle Paperwhite or Nook GlowLight —
which is not surprising as these devices were
only introduced in 2012. Rather than lighting the
screen from behind, illuminated e-ink e-readers
are “front-lit” and use small LEDs around the
screen, pointing inward rather than outward,
to cast a glow over it (the Paperwhite channels
this through “light guides” to illuminate evenly).
This is more like looking at an earlier Kindle in a
lit room, than it is like looking at a light shining
directly into your eyes.
What’s more, these devices generally allow users to dim the light – and so do blue-light-tastic
backlit tablets, for that matter.
So in short, yes, you should avoid staring at your
smartphone or tablet (or PC or TV) for hours before trying to nod off. And that includes the Kindle
Fire, which is after all just a tablet. But let’s
give dedicated e-ink e-readers, which are very
different devices, the benefit of the doubt until
someone proves they also pose a danger. j
David Meyer, Gigacom.com
These effects could be serious. As the researchers note, recent evidence has linked chronic
Page 23 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
he following is a list of food additives that
the Environmental Working Group, an
organization that investigates public health
issues, says consumers should avoid if possible.
These ingredients associated with serious health
concerns are called the “Dirty Dozen.”
2. Potassium Bromate – bread and cookie
dough; a known carcinogen.
3. Propyl Paraben – preservative linked to
breast cancer and impaired fertility.
4. Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) – preservative with cancer links.
6. Propyl Gallate – preservative, safety questioned.
7. Theobromine – chocolate ingredient FDA
approved, but questionable.
8. Secret flavor ingredients – FDA approved,
but questionable.
9. Artificial colors – May be contaminated.
10.Diacetyl – Popcorn flavoring that’s dangerous to produce.
11.Phosphates – Linked to heart disease.
12.Aluminum – On “health watch list.” j
Environmental Working Group
Ewg.org
“Love from the center of who you are.”
– Romans 12.9
Environmental Safety Glossary
Environmental medicine
A multidisciplinary field involving the study and
treatment of diseases caused or exacerbated by
environmental exposures to naturally occurring or
man-made toxicants.
Environmental health
The World Health organization defines environmental health as a field of study that “addresses all the
physical, chemical, and biological factors external
to a person, and all the related factors impacting
behaviors. It encompasses the assessment and
control of those environmental factors that can
potentially affect health. It is targeted towards
preventing disease and creating health-supportive
environments. This definition excludes behavior
not related to environment, as well as behavior
related to the social and cultural environment, and
genetics.”
Bisphenol-A (BPA)
A man-made chemical with recognized endocrine
disruptor properties widely used to make polycarbonate (hard) plastics, dental sealants, and linings
of many canned goods. Surprisingly enough BPA
exposure could be due to excessive farmed fish
exposure.
“Criteria” Air Pollutants
The 6 air pollutants used by the EPA to set national
ambient air quality standards. They include: carbon
monoxide, sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, ozone,
lead, and particulate matter.
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals
Endocrine disruptors are substances that “interfere
with the synthesis, secretion, transport, binding, action, or elimination of natural hormones in
the body that are responsible for development,
behavior, fertility, and maintenance of homeostasis”
(Crisp, 1998). “An EDC is an exogenous chemical,
or mixture of chemicals, that interferes with any
aspect of hormone action” (Zoeller, 2012).
Flame retardant
Polybrominated biphenyls (PBB) and polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE), man-made compounds
and their byproducts, are used to prevent fires and
have been found throughout the world in samples
of human blood, breast milk and fat tissues. Flame
retardants are recognized endocrine disruptors
with known effects on reproductive health and
thyroid function. Certain classes of these chemicals
have been banned in both the US and in Europe,
but even those banned several years ago have
persisted and accumulated in the environment,
concentrating in the food chain.
These compounds make up a significant percentage of the chemical group known as “persistent
organic pollutants”.
Genetically modified organism (GMO)
An organism whose genetic makeup has been altered by the insertion of a modified gene or a gene
from another organism.
Nanotechnology
An emerging field of science that involves molecules sized between 1-100 nanometers. Nanotechnology is now incorporated into most fields
Dioxins
A class of chemicals belonging to the “dirty dozen” of science and technology, including medicine.
Questions exist about the effects of unintentional
as categorized by the Stockholm Convention on
persistent organic pollutants. There are 419 types nanoparticle exposures, and how accumulation
of dioxin-related compounds, many with significant of nanoparticles and their byproducts impact the
environment.
toxicity.
Dioxins are primarily byproducts of industrial
waste, but can also be created in natural disasters
such as forest fires and volcano eruptions.
Prior to improved regulation in the US, a major
source of dioxins was from uncontrolled industrial
waste incineration from smelting and chlorine
bleaching of pulp and the manufacturing of pesticides and herbicides. Many serious incidences
of dioxin animal feed contamination have been
reported around the world.
Parabens
The most widely used preservatives in cosmetic
products used to help protect against a broad
range of microorganisms. According to the FDA
they are found commonly in makeup, moisturizers,
hair care products, and shaving products, among
other products (FDA, 2007). Parabens are known
endocrine disruptors, and are found commonly in
human serum samples. They have also been found
in breast tumor samples, and recently a new assay
has identified them in human placentas (Sandanger, 2011; Jiménez-Díaz, 2011; Scialli, 2011).
Dioxins are found globally, and according to the
World Health Organization due to their ubiquitous
presence, all people throughout the world have
background exposure. Dioxins are highly lipophilic,
accumulating in the fatty tissues of animals in the
food chain. The primary source of human exposure
is in food, mainly meat, dairy, fish, and shellfish.
Human health effects include reproductive and
endocrine problems, developmental problems, immune system effects, and cancer.
Persistent Organic Pollutants (POP)
Organic chemicals and compounds that are
resistant to breakdown. Many are man-made
compounds used in the production of pesticides,
solvents, polyvinyl chloride, and pharmaceuticals.
An excellent overview of POPs can be found on the
website of the Stockholm Convention, an international treaty to ban environmental toxins that was
ratified in 2004 (Stockholm Convention, 2008).
Avoiding dioxins as a consumer can be very challenging. Some simple recommendations include
trimming fat off meat, consuming lower fat dairy
products, and eating a varied and balanced diet of
fruits, vegetables, and grains (WHO, 2010).
PERC
Perchloroethylene, also known as tetrachloroethylene, is a colorless liquid chemical used primarily
in dry cleaning. It has been classified as a likely
human carcinogen (Caldwell, 1995).
Disinfection byproducts
Created when disinfectants used to treat tap water
(often chlorine), react with naturally occurring
organic and inorganic materials in the water.
Accumulating research suggests a link between
these compounds and cancer of the bladder, and
colon, as well as reproductive health effects (EPA,
2011; EPA, 2010).
Phthalates
Chemical compounds in the chemical group
known as plasticizers, primarily added to polyvinyl
chloride, a hard clear plastic, to increase its flexibility and durability. Phthalates are associated with
reproductive (genital abnormalities in male infants)
and developmental (neurobehavioral abnormalities
in all children) effects Sathyanarayana,
2008 as well as insulin resistance in adolescents
Page 24 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
(Trasande, 2013).
Polybrominated biphenylethers (PBDEs)
A common class of flame retardants, widely used
in the US and other countries that have been associated with endocrine disruptor properties (EPA,
2010).
Polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB)
A class of organic chemicals formerly used in
industry – especially in coolants, that are part of
what are known as persistent organic pollutants.
They have been banned in the US and in many
other countries because of their association with
endocrine disrupting properties and neurotoxicity.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH)
The polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons can occur
both naturally and in man-made forms and are
very widespread. The natural PAHs are a group
of hundreds of different chemicals formed during
the incomplete burning of coal, oil, gas, garbage,
or tobacco and are produced by cooking meat or
fish at very high temperatures. Man-made PAH
exist in pure form and are used in coal tar, crude
oil, creososte, and roofing tar. Some of these pure
compounds are used to make dyes, medications,
plastics, and pesticides.
Both types of PAH are lipophillic and persistent in
the ecosystem. They can bind with other compounds and become elements in particulate matter,
or settle into soil or water sources.
The main exposure routes for PAH are inhalation,
ingestion of contaminated foods, drinking contaminated water or milk or breast milk, and through
dermal absorption.
The EPA has classified 7 PAH compounds as probable human carcinogens. Several other PAH have
been identified as teratogens and mutagenic. The
Center for Children’s Environmental Health identifies studies that link high prenatal PAH exposures
with low birth weight, premature delivery, and heart
malformations. Follow up studies noted lower IQ
and association with childhood asthma (ATSDR,
2011; EPA, n.d.).
Precautionary Principle
“Caution in advance” The precautionary principle
is a moral and political principle which states that
action should be taken to prevent serious or irreversible harm to public health or the environment,
despite lack of definitive scientific certainty as to
the likelihood, magnitude, or causation of that harm
(Raffensberger, 1999).
Plasticizer
A plasticizer for plastics is a chemical additive,
most commonly phthalates, which give hard
plastics such as polyvinyl chloride more flexibility
and durability.
Quantum dots
One of the “tools” used frequently in nanotechnology. Quantum dots are nanoparticles that consist of
a metalloid core covered with a shell.
Questions about the impact of these chemicals on
the environment are under active study.
Radon
Radon is a colorless gas that is derived from the
radioactive decay of uranium in soil rock, and water
and moves into the air. Radon can cause lung
cancer. It can enter buildings through construction
joints, floor cracks, gaps around pipes, the water
supply, and cracks in floors and walls, etc. Any
home, school, or other building can have a radon
problem, it is not limited to older homes (EPA, n.d.).
Toxicant
Delererious substances not produced within living
organisms, a man-made contaminant.
Toxin
A toxic material or product of plants, fungi (e.g.,
poison mushrooms), animals (e.g., snake venom),
and microorganisms.
Trichloroethylene
Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a non-flammable, colorless liquid most commonly used as a solvent to
remove grease from metal parts. In the home it can
be found in typewriter correction fluid, paint, spot
removers, carpet-cleaning fluids, metal cleaners, and varnishes. Historically it was used as an
anesthetic, but it was eventually replaced by the
less toxic halogen.
It evaporates easily and has been found in water
sources in many areas throughout the United
States. The most common exposure routes are in
fumes, and because it evaporates quickly people
who shower or bath in contaminated water may
breath vapors. It can be absorbed dermally, and
can be ingested in contaminated food or water.
Trichloroethylene has been associated with arrhythmias, congenital heart defects, liver toxicity,
reproductive abnormalities, and cancer (ATSDR,
2011; Wisconsin DHS, 2010).
Triclosan
A synthetic, broad-spectrum antimicrobial found
ubiquitously in the health care setting, primarily in hand sanitizers. It has been shown to have
endocrine disruptor tendencies (Langdon, 2010;
Clarke, 2011).
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC)
Chemicals emitted in gaseous form from a wide
variety of compounds such as paints, cleaning supplies, pesticides, building supplies and furnishings,
office equipment, glues, permanent markers, and
others. Several classes of VOCs have been shown
to cause cancer in humans and animals (EPA,
2011).
Xenobiotic
A chemical compound (drug, pesticide, carcinogen)
that is foreign to a living organism (Merriam-Webster). From the Greek xenos, meaning “stranger”.
Above glossary of environmental safety related
words are helpful for the general population to be
familiar with the environmental exposures and
concept of prevention.
According to the recent studies baby cord blood
has as high as 300 chemicals at birth. This clearly
indicates the magnitude of environmental toxicity
in our world. Unless we change daily environmental
practices to protect the next generation and pay
our dues forward for the next generation, our great
grand babies may not have a safe place to live.
Aylin Ozdemir,
MD, FAAP, ABIHM
Pediatric
Associates of
Jacksonville
904-273-6533
904-743-2100
904-287-7000
practice exercises in math, science, history, art, computer
programming and more at khanacademy.com.
SEAWORLD PRESCHOOL PASS
CONTESTS FOR KIDS
Artists! Illustrate threatened and endangered plant
and animal species to win the Saving Endangered
Species Youth Art Contest. The 2015 Saving Endangered
Species youth art contest is open to K-12 grade students
residing in the United States, including those who are
homeschooled. Parents, register online and get more
details at endangeredspeciesday.org. A winner will be
chosen in four categories: Grades K-2, Grades 3-5, Grades
6-8 and Grades 9-12. Entries must be postmarked by
March 1st.
Preschoolers age five and younger get a FREE pass to
enjoy SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa during
all of 2015.
The Free SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Preschool Pass is an
exclusive online offer, available at SeaWorldOrlando.com.
It is exclusively for Florida residents ages five and younger
and is valid for unlimited admission – with no blackout dates
– through Dec. 31, 2015, at SeaWorld Orlando and Busch
Gardens Tampa. The Preschool Pass does not include parking
or Pass Member discounts or benefits.
Children in Kindergarten
through 3rd Grade, do you have
a story to tell? Enter PBS Kids
Writer’s Contest. Submit your
illustrated stories by March
6th. Visit pbskids.org/writerscontest for details.
MAKE-IT-YOURSELF KIDS COMPUTER
The Ultimate Cool School Science Day 2015 Sweepstakes
is open to teachers 18 years of age and older and who
are teachers at an accredited public, private or parochial
elementary school in the U.S. containing any class with
students from Kindergarten through Grade 6, that has
a 501(c)(3) or 509(a)(1) tax exempt designation.
Many have tried and
failed to develop a
winning educational
computer for kids.
Kano cracks that nut,
and does so in a
genius fashion. The
Raspberry Pi-based
computer comes in
pieces, and kids assemble it bit by bit, learning what each
component does as they snap it together. Once it’s running,
the simple operating system teaches them computer
basics and code. They can make games, make music,
make videos and yep, it has Minecraft! This make-ityourself computer is only $149.99 and shipping is free.
Learn more and order it online at www.kano.me
Enter daily to win at siemensscienceday.com.
Sweepstakes ends at 5pm on February 26th.
KHAN ACADEMY
CONTEST FOR TEACHERS
Teachers! Win a year’s subscription to Discovery Education
Science Elementary in the Ultimate Cool Science Day
sweepstakes.
What started as
one man tutoring
his cousin is now
one of the most valuable educational tools available in the
world and it’s FREE! Learners from kindergarten to college
and beyond can learn from the thousands of videos and
Page 25 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
Khan Academy also offers test preparation. You can
download a real, full-length SAT practice test, take the test,
find out areas that need improvement and watch videos that
show real SAT problems and how to work through them.
You can also get needed practice using their interactive
exercises to master concepts covered on the SAT. In 2016,
the SAT is is being redesigned and The College Board and
Khan Academy have teamed up to offer free prep materials
for the redesigned SAT beginning this Spring.
Additional educational resources include tips to help you
encourage and motivate your children in their education
and navigating college admissions like a pro. You’ll want
to visit this section if you have a child going into 9th, 10th,
11th or 12th grade. The sooner, the better.
COMMON SENSE MEDIA
Common Sense Media is a non-profit organization that
promotes safe technology and media for children by
providing independent reviews, age ratings, & other
information about all types of media including movies,
books, games, apps and more. You’ll find them at www.
commonsensemedia.org.
SCHOOLTUBE
SchoolTube is the nation’s largest K-12 video sharing
platform, specifically designed for students, teachers, and
parents. All student uploaded videos on SchoolTube must be
approved by a teacher or administrator from that student’s
school before it will be made live on the site - ensuring
a safe, fun, and informative video sharing experience. A
search engine allows students and teachers to find all
videos shared from their schools. Video topics range from
math, science, history, technology, food, journalism and
student created films.
LET’S CONNECT
infant & toddler
Instill a Love of Books Early in Life for Lasting,
Positive Effects
E
ducators and child development experts
agree that it is never too early to read to a
child. Numerous studies tout the benefits of
consistently sharing stories and books as soon
and often as possible. Editors for the Reading
Rocket website suggest that parents read aloud
from day one. Babies respond to the warmth of a
lap and the soothing sound of a book being read
aloud. Reading to a child is not just about
phonics, comprehension, vocabulary and
pre-school readiness. Scientists and researchers
report that reading results in overall increased
cognitive functions. Cognitive skills are related to
memory and concentration and the ability to learn
new information. Cognition also refers to the
manner and ease with which children learn to
understand events through written words and
verbal language or interpret abstract concepts.
Here are tips to foster book-loving behavior from
the Reading Rocket experts.
that show pictures and names of familiar
objects.
• As you read with your baby, point out objects
in the pictures and make sure your baby sees
all the things that are fun to do with books.
(Pat the Bunny by Dorothy Kunhardt is a
classic touch-and-feel book for babies.)
• Vary the tone of your voice with different
characters in the stories, sing nursery rhymes,
make funny faces, do whatever special
effects you can to stimulate your baby’s
interest.
• Allow your child to touch and hold cloth and
sturdy cardboard books.
• When reading to a baby, keep the sessions
brief but read daily and often.
• As you read to your baby, your child is forming
an association between books and what is
most loved – your voice and closeness.
Allowing babies to handle books deepens
their attachment even more.
patiently. When you say, “I don’t know, let’s
look it up,” you show how important books
are as resources for answering questions.
• After your child tells you a story, ask questions so you can understand better. That way
children learn how to tell complete stories and
know you are interested in what they have to
say.
• Expose your child to varied experiences –
trips to the library, museum, or zoo; walks in
the park; or visits with friends and relatives.
Surround these events with lots of comments,
questions, and answers.
Talking enables children to expand their vocabulary and understanding of the world. The ability to
carry on a conversation is important for reading
development. Remember, it is better to talk too
much rather than too little with a small child.
Activity 1: Books and Babies
Babies love to listen to the human voice. What
better way than through reading?
What to do:
• Start out by singing lullabies and folk songs to
your baby. When your baby is about six
months old, choose books with brightly
colored, simple pictures and lots of rhythm in
the text. (Mother Goose rhymes are perfect.)
Hold your baby in your lap so he/she can see
the colorful pages of the book. Include books
Page 26 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
Learn. Fun. Naturally.
Activity 3: R and R – Repetition and Rhyme
Repetition makes books predictable, and young
Look for new books and authors that your child
readers love knowing what comes next.
may enjoy.
Activity 2: Tot Talk
What to do:
Organize an area dedicated to reading and
What’s “old hat” to you can be new and exciting
• Pick a story with repeated phrases or a poem
writing tools.
to toddlers and preschoolers. When you talk about
you and your child like. For example, read:
Visit the library for story time and book recomeveryday experiences, you help children connect
(Wolf voice:) “Little pig, little pig, let me come
mendations.
their world to language and enable them to go
in.” (Little pig:) “Not by the hair on my
Encourage your child to talk about what he’s
beyond that world to new ideas.
chinny-chin-chin.” (Wolf voice:) “Then I’ll huff
read.
What to do:
and I’ll puff and I’ll blow your house in!”
Talk to your child, and sprinkle interesting words
• As you get dinner ready, talk to your child
• After the wolf has blown down the first pig’s
into your conversation.
about things that are happening. When your
house, your child will soon join in with the
Offer a variety of books to read.
2- or 3-year-old “helps” by taking out all the
refrain.
Read with your child every day.
pots and pans, talk about them. “Which one is • Read slowly, and with a smile or a nod, let
Expand your home library to include magazines
the biggest?” “Can you find a lid for that
your child know you appreciate his or her
and nonfiction.
one?” “What color is this one?”
participation.
Ask questions of teachers if you’re concerned
• When walking down the street and your
• As the child grows more familiar with the
about your child’s development.
toddler or preschooler stops to collect leaves,
story, pause and give him or her a chance to
Decide to raise a reader!
stop and ask questions that require more than
fill in the blanks and phrases.
a “yes” or “no” answer. “Which leaves are the
• Encourage your child to pretend to read,
Activities for birth to preschool: The early years
same?” “Which leaves are different?” “What
especially books that contain repetition and
These activities, compiled by the members of the
else grows on trees?”
rhyme. Most children who enjoy reading will
U.S. Department of Education have been
• Ask “what if” questions. “What would happen
eventually memorize all or parts of a book and
developed by national reading experts. The
if we didn’t shovel the snow?” “What if that
imitate your reading. This is a normal part of
activities are meant to be used in addition to
butterfly lands on your nose?”
reading development. j
reading with children every day. Adults’ main goal • Answer your child’s endless “why” questions
is to develop great enthusiasm in the reader for
reading and writing. If the reader finishes one
book and asks for another, you know you are
Animal Encounters
Guided Trail Tours
succeeding! If your reader writes even once a
Energy or Water Detective
week and comes back for more, you know you
have accomplished your beginning goals.
Programs start at just $6/person.
Episcopal Early
Learning Center
GOOD SHEPHERD
Now Enrolling ages
1 year to 5 years
and VPK
Limited space available
Warm, nurturing
environment
Small class size
Foundations for Success,
Links to Learning and
Godly Play Christian
Curricula
Nutritious breakfast,
lunch and afternoon
snack included
Watch Me Grow cameras
and online parent
access to all classrooms
904-723-4413
www.ecs4kids.org
1100 Stockton Street
DISCOVER
NATURE TODAY!
Find us on
7152 Lone Star Road
treehill.org
Jacksonville, FL 32211
[email protected]
904.724.4646
LIC #C04DU1119
infant & toddler
Early Dental Health Care
T
eaching your child good oral hygiene habits
early can lead to a lifelong healthy smile. But
did you know that just because babies don’t have
any visible teeth, doesn’t mean they can’t get
cavities? A baby’s 20 primary teeth are already
present in the jaws at birth. And those baby teeth
that begin coming through the gums around 6
months help set the stage for future smiles by
keeping space in the jaw for adult teeth.
When a baby tooth is lost too early, the permanent teeth can drift into the empty space and
make it difficult for other adult teeth to find room
when they come in. This can make teeth crooked
or crowded. That’s why starting infants off with
good oral care can help protect their teeth for
decades to come. The American Dental Association recommends that parents take children to a
dentist no later than their first birthday and then
at intervals recommended by their dentist.
and water. For bottle feedings, place only formula,
milk or breast milk inside and avoid using sugary
beverages such as juice or soda. Infants should
finish their bedtime and naptime bottle before
going to bed.
Test yourself with these statements
about kid’s dental health.
Fact or Fiction:
1. “Babies get fevers when teething.”
2. “Baby teeth are important.”
3. “Malocclusions (bad bites) aren’t serious.”
4. “Diluting juice is better for your child’s
teeth.”
5. “Getting a sealant put on a tooth hurts.”
M AR CH 7T H, 20 15
JA CK SO NV ILL E FA IRG RO UN DS EX PO CE NT ER
(Answers: 1. Fiction – a fever is not normal,
neither is diarrhea or rashes. 2. Fact – Early loss
of baby teeth may result in crooked or crowded
adult teeth. 3. Fiction – A bad bite can make it
Prevent “Baby Bottle Tooth Decay” by beginning
difficult to keep teeth and gums clean increasing
an oral hygiene routine within the first few days
the risk of cavities and gum disease. 4. Fiction –
after birth. Start by cleaning your baby’s mouth by “Snack and sip all day? Risk decay.” 5. Fiction
wiping the gums with a clean gauze pad. This
– Sealing teeth is fast and easy and protects from
helps removes plaque that can harm erupting
cavities.) j
teeth. When your child’s teeth begin to come in,
American Dental Association, mouthhealthy.org
brush them gently with a child size toothbrush
Bilingual Stories for Babies and Toddlers
February 3, 10:30 to 11:15am
February 10, 10:30 to 11:15am
February 17, 10:30 to 11:15am
February 24, 10:30 to 11:15am
This a lap-sit storytime program for children from
birth to walking with an adult caregiver. Come for
books, rhymes, songs, and fingerplays in English/
Spanish.
South Mandarin Branch / 904-288-6385 / 12125
San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / jpl.coj.net
Musical Storybooks
February 28, 11am
Join the Symphony at the Beaches Branch of the
Jacksonville Public Library for an early literacy
and music program for pre-K children, presenting
a story combined with music to engage them
in active listening and foster a love of reading
through music. Admission is free.
Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra / Beaches
Branch Library, 600 3rd Street, Neptune Beach,
FL 32266 / www.jaxsymphony.org
Visit Jax4Kids.com for more event listings.
Page 27 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
Offer expires 3/1/15
Come for a tour!
In Jacksonville - For ages 2-12
•
Avondale
4274 Herschel St. •
904.387.8602
License # C04DU0724
Tinseltown
9726 Touchton Rd. #111
904.683.4554
License # C04DU0978
WE HAVE
MATERNITY
Quality Children’s Resale
Maternity, Infant, Toddler, Girls & Boys 4-10
Friend Us on Facebook
or View Our Website for Sales:
www.littlebitschildrensresale.com
12226 Beach Blvd. Ste 11
Jacksonville
904.645.8874
(located in the Sans Pareil Plaza
on Beach near Kernan)
$5.00 OFF
Any purchase of $25 or more
Cannot be used with sale items. Must be
$25 before tax.
Expires
2/28/15
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Little Learners: Earth, Moon, & Sun and Tiny
Turtles
February 11, 10am
Bring your little ones to MOSH the second
Wednesday of every month for exclusive
programming for preschool-aged children and
their caregivers. Doors open at 9am followed by
the Planetarium program Earth, Moon & Sun at
Wild Kratts Live
February 16, 1pm
Wild Kratts Live! Is an all new theatrical stage
show based on the hit animated PBS television
series Wild Kratts. Tickets range from $20 to to
$50.
Florida Theatre / 904-355-2787 / 128 East
Forsyth Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 /
floridatheatre.com
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Crafty Tots
February 9, 11am to 1pm
February 23, 11am to 1pm
Children ages 2 to 4 are invited to engage in a
caregiver/child interactive session. Children will
learn concepts of color, shapes and sizes.
Brown Eastside Branch / 904-630-5466 / 1390
Harrison Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206 / jpl.coj.net
10am and Tiny Turtles at 11am. Admission is
only $5 per person (ages 3 & up). Pre-register in
advance.
MOSH / 904-396-MOSH / 1025 Museum Circle,
Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www.themosh.org/
Home.html
Furniture-Toys-Shoes-Accessories-Baby Gear
Maternity Clothes-Children’s Clothing
(Infant, Toddler, Girls & Boys)
Books-DVDs-Custom Handcrafted Gift
We Buy & Sell. Bring in outgrown & in the way items
& walk out with cash. Call For Buying Hours.
Store Hours: Mon-Fri 10am - 6:30pm
Sat 10am - 6pm • Sunday 12:00pm - 4:30pm
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Infant & Toddler
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nature
New Fishing Reefs Created in River Near Downtown
I
t is not often that the downtown area of a U.S.
city is the backdrop for a new reef, but that is
exactly where a new marine habitat is located.
Two new fishing reefs have been created in the
St. Johns River less than half a mile from the I-95
bridge in downtown Jacksonville.
public has unparalleled access,” said Payton
Scheppe, a Coastal Conservation Assn. volunteer
who spearheaded the project. “This is an area of
the river where an amazing variety of fish can be
found depending on the time of year, right here in
the shadow of high-rise office buildings. What a
great place to introduce people to marine
conservation and to recreational angling.”
The effort to place two reefs,
each roughly 200 feet by 200
feet, in the St. Johns River
attracted widespread support.
The City of Jacksonville
embraced the idea and
handled all the permitting
requirements for the reefs and
local companies provided the
more than 50,000 cubic feet of
concrete rubble that covers the
sites.
“It is a unique opportunity to create some
valuable marine habitat in a place where the
The material was carefully
arranged so that there was no
issues with clearance from the
surface, but there is areas with
three to four feet of relief from the bottom
intermixed with open spaces to create an ideal
Page 28 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
habitat for fish, said Scheppe.
Jacksonville University announced that it will
study the reefs over the next two years to gauge
the impact of the structures on the surrounding
area.
“Our members love to fish and they make it a
point of pride to give something back to the
resource so that others can enjoy it, too,” said
Charles Holt, another CCA volunteer who worked
on the project. “This is perhaps the most unique
habitat project we’ve ever been part of, and we
hope the people of Jacksonville will come take
advantage of it.”
The total cost of the project was $60,000. The
Florida Department of Wildlife and Conservation
awarded CCA a $30,000 grant for the project and
the Building Conservation Trust, CCA’s national
habitat program which has garnered support
from country music star Kenny Chesney and
Costa Sunglasses among others, donated the
remainder.
“Costa asked me what I wanted to do with the
money raised through our sunglasses last year,
and I told them I’d like what we do to be
something that renews the waterways, so people
can enjoy them the way so many of my friends
and fans do,” said Chesney. “To protect the
oceans, bays and rivers is our responsibility –
and I’m glad we can make a difference in the St.
John River.” j
www.joincca.org
“The greatest thing you’ll ever learn is to love
and be loved in return.”
– Nat King Cole
Things to Do
pets
February is Dental
Health Month
A
ccording to the American Animal Hospital
Association, nearly two-thirds of pets suffer
from dental problems because their owners do
not provide dental care for them. Imagine what
would happen to your own teeth if they were
never brushed or examined by a dentist. The
same thing can happen with your pet’s teeth. Just
as in humans, not brushing leaves bacteria and
plaque in your pet’s mouth. As this hardens into
pet’s heart, kidneys or liver. Studies show that
poor dental care shortens their life span by 20%.
Fortunately there are many steps that can be
taken to insure good oral health for pets. Most
importantly, brush your pet’s teeth every day.
There are special pet toothbrushes you can use
on pets and toothpastes that are ok for pets to
swallow. Also, it’s best to start early, but even an
older dog or cat can be taught to tolerate regular
brushing. Also, hard food and dental chews can
also help dislodge some of the plaque.
You should also be sure to make regular appointments with your veterinarian for dental care.
Dental specialists recommend annual dental
cleanings under anesthesia with your veterinarian. As well as checking for problems, your
veterinarian will remove accumulated plaque,
clean and polish your pet’s teeth, and may apply
fluoride or a protective sealant.
One sign that your pet may be having dental
problems is bad breath. Other signs may include
a disinterest in eating, drooling, loose teeth, pain
tartar and builds up on the teeth, it starts invading when touched, inflamed or red gums, or bleeding.
between the teeth and gums. Left unchecked,
If you notice any of these signs, it is important to
your pet can experience gingivitis, loss of the
make an appointment with your veterinarian right
gum and supporting structures, and eventually
away. j
the loss of a tooth. Abscessed teeth frequently
develop from this process or from a fractured
American Animal Hospital Association, Dental
tooth. These can lead to an infection, problems
Care Guidelines
eating, or serious health complications in your
Roo Bites Treats Recalled
J
ump Your Bones, Inc. of Boca Raton, Florida,
is voluntarily recalling Jump Your Bones
brand name Roo Bites Cubes because it has the
potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
Roo Bites Cubes contain kangaroo meat. No pet
or consumer illnesses from this product have
been reported to date.
Salmonella can affect animals eating the
products and there is risk to humans from
handling contaminated pet products, especially if
they have not thoroughly washed their hands
after having contact with the products or any
surfaces exposed to these products.
Healthy people infected with Salmonella should
monitor themselves for the following symptoms:
nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea,
abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella
can result in more serious ailments, including
arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle
pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms.
Consumers exhibiting these signs after having
contact with this product should contact their
healthcare providers.
Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic
and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and
vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased
appetite, fever, and abdominal pain. Infected but
otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect
other animals or humans. If your pet has
consumed the recalled product and has these
symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.
The affected lots of Jump Your Bones Pet Treats
were distributed to retail pet food stores nationwide and through pet food retailers/distributors.
The affected products are sold in Boutique Bags
and online stores. The products affected by this
recall are only identified with the following UPC
codes:
63633010041 for 80g. / 2.82oz. including
samples of .32 oz.
This recall is being made with the knowledge of
the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. j
Page 29 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
Pet Events
Pawsplus Low Cost Pet Vaccinations
Low cost mobile puppy, dog, kitten and cat vaccination clinic in locations throughout North Florida. No
appointments, no exam fees. Visit www.pawsplus.com
for dates and location near you. Pawsplus / 1-888-7297758 / www.pawsplus.com
Chariots of Fur 5K
February 7, 8:30am
A 5K run/walk and 1-mile Doggie Dash Fun Run – with
or without your dog – on Jacksonville Beach to benefit
local nonprofit St. Francis Animal Hospital to help pets in
need of medical care. Runners & walkers will set their
own pace – racing to win or walking for fun. 8:30am
start for both the 5K and 1-Mile fun run. 5K awards
ceremony followed by raffle at 9:30am. Prizes awarded
for First Place Overall male and female finishers and Top
Three Male and Female finishers in each age category.
Entry fees range from $20 to $35 for the 5K and $15 to
$20 for the fun run. No extra fee for running with your
dog. If you are running with your dog, please follow
the safety rules posted online. The course is south on
the beach from the Seawalk Pavilion. Register online
in advance. Race festivities will include sponsor booths,
Doga (yoga with your dog), dogs available for adoption,
hot chocolate, a complimentary runner’s buffet, massages, and a raffle. Milestone Race Authority / Sea Walk
Pavilion, 11 1st St N, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 /
www.milestoneraceauthority.com
Dogmanship with Dream Dogz
February 7, 2pm
Be A Pack Leader Dog Walking Club will host a canine
education program with special guests, Victoria and
Richard Warfel from Dream Dogz Training Center in
Gainesville, Florida. They utilize Pressure, Release, and
Reward which allows the dog to learn what is being
taught and forms a solid bond between dog and owner.
Similar to Horsemanship, Dream Dogz puts the dog first,
then the person, and works together towards a common
goal which they call Dogmanship. For information about
the program contact Julie at 904-471-5579 or email
[email protected]
Anastasia Island Branch Library /904-209-3730 / 124
Seagrove Main, St. Augustine, FL 32080 / www.sjcpls.org
ReptiDay Jacksonville
February 8, 10am to 5pm
See live animals from around the world, purchase pets
and pet products direct from the experts and learn more
about reptiles and exotic animals at live seminars and
demonstrations. Show starts at 10am, with early entry at
9:30am. Advance tickets are good for early admission
and are $12 (Adult), $5 (Ages 5-12), ages 4 and under are
free. Repticon / Jacksonville Association of Fire Fighters
Hall, 618 Stockton Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.
reptiday.com
Potty Training Seminar
February 14, 3:30pm to 4pm
Have a new puppy or an older dog going potty in the
house? Free 30-minute seminar with tips to help prevent
accidents.
Petco /463713 State Rd 200, Yulee, FL 32097 / 904-2250014 / www.petco.com
Animal Training With The Science Of Behavior
February 26, 5pm
Be A Pack Leader Dog Walking Club will host a canine education program with special guest, Professional Animal
Behaviorist Courtney Keppen from Pro Pet Train. Courtney
believes in training pet owners to train and communicate
with their pets through the science of behavior: positive
reinforcement and empowering the animal to make
their own correct decisions. There will also be a training
demonstration with Bandito the African Grey Parrot. For
information about the program contact Julie at 904-4715579 or email [email protected].
Anastasia Island Branch / 904-209-3730 / 124 Seagrove
Main Street, St. Augustine, FL 32080 / www.sjcpls.org
Like Jax4Pets.com’s Facebook page
at facebook.com/jax4pets to find out
about other events for pets.
Recruiting Patients with
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Join a Clinical Study
investigating RA medications
associated with active rheumatoid arthritis can seriously impact one’s quality of life.
We are currently conducting a research study investigating the comparative safety and
study, you must meet all study criteria, including the following:
You are 18 years of age or older,
You have been diagnosed with moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis,
You are currently taking methotrexate,
You are not adequately responding to current treatment, and
You are willing to follow a study plan, attend routinely scheduled study visits and
complete a study dosing diary for approximately 12 months.
If you are eligible for participation, you will be randomized to receive one of three study
medication combinations and all study-related medical care at no cost to you.
For more information about this
clinical study, please contact:
JACKSONVILLE CENTER
FOR CLINICAL RESEARCH
(904) 730-0166
www.jaxresearch.com
things to do
Kids Camp-Making Fingers Paints, Crayons , Play
Clay & More
February 3, 10am to 12noon
Participants will make 2 to 3 projects in each 2 hour
class. Some projects include: crayons, play clays, silly
slime, lotions, soaps, bath bombs, sidewalk chalk,
natural finger paint and more. You can purchase 4
camps for a total of $75 per child or each class is
$15 ($10 Supply Fee). No charge for adults. Green
Lotus Studios / 904- 465-0985 / 2642-2 Rosselle St,
Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.localendar.com/public/
greenlotusstudios
Acrobats of China – New Shanghai Circus
February 4, 7:30pm
School performances: February 5, 10am and
12noon (Tickets are $8.50)
The Acrobats of China – New Shanghai Circus will be
presented by Artist Series Broadway in Jacksonville
at the Wilson Center for the Arts. Tickets start at $35.
Call to reserve your tickets or book online.
Artist Series of Jacksonville / 904-442-2929 / Wilson
Center for the Arts, 11901 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL
32246 / www.artistseriesjax.org
Parents Night Out
February 6, 7:30pm
Parents Night Out is a clean comedy for grownups,
featuring stand-up comedy, improv and audience
participation. Comedians Karen Morgan and Jim Colliton give parents of all ages a chance to laugh at the
trials and tribulations of parenthood, marriage, family
and everyday life in America. Tickets start at $15 and
are available in advance. Thrasher Horne Center for the
Arts / 904-276-6750 / 283 College Dr, Orange Park, FL
32073 / www.thcenter.org
The Big Blizzard Bash
February 7, 10am to 2pm
Food, games, activities, music and of course, snow.
Event entry is Free. There will be $10 unlimited play
wristband available for youth who desire to participate
in on-site activities. Proceeds will go to Big Brothers,
Big Sisters of Northeast Florida.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Florida / Morocco
Shrine Center, 3800 St. Johns Bluff Rd S, Jacksonville,
FL 32224 / www.bbbsnefl.org
3rd Annual Character Counts 6K/3K Run/Walk
February 7, 2pm
The course begins and ends at Palencia Elementary
School. The event is open to all ages. Entry fees for
the 3K range from $15 to $25; entry fees for the 6K
are $20 to $30. A cash donation will be given to the
top three schools with the most registrants. At the
finish line, each participant will receive a commemorative dog tag, which will be the first design in a series.
Register in advance. RaceSmith / Palencia Elementary
School, 355 Palencia Village Drive St. Augustine, FL
32095 / racesmith.com
Let’s Go Science Show
February 8, 1:30pm and 4:30pm
School performances: February 9, 10am and
12noon (Tickets are $8.50)
During the Let’s Go Science Show, kids learn science
concepts through demonstrations. They learn about air
pressure, figure out flight, see awesome optical illusions, be shocked by static electricity, see experiments
with falling masses, grasp gyroscopic properties, and
get a handle on the scientific method. Performances
are at 1:30pm & 4:30pm. Tickets are $16.50 each.
Artist Series of Jacksonville / 904-442-2929 / Wilson
Center for the Arts, 11901 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL
32246 / www.artistseriesjax.org
Songwriters Concert
February 8, 6pm to 8pm
The City of Atlantic Beach Cultural Arts and Recreation
Advisory Committee host a free concert. Doors open
at 5:45pm. Seating is first come-first served for this
admission-free event. Performers should call host Mike
Shackelford at 904-610-7461. Prepare two original
songs of 7-8 minutes combined maximum. City of
Atlantic Beach / 904-247-4038 / Adele Grage Cultural
Center, 716 Ocean Blvd, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 /
www.coab.us
Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad
February 10, 10am and 12noon
Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad. Best for
grades 1-8. Tickets are $8 per person. There will be
two performances, 10am and 12noon. Call to reserve
your tickets.
Florida Theatre / 904-355-2787 / 128 East Forsyth
Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / floridatheatre.com
Home School Experience
February 10, 9:30am to 2:15pm
The Old Florida Museum hosts a Homeschool Experience. Cost is $19.95 per person, for ages 3 and older.
There will be five interactive programs, each lasting
40 minutes. There will be a 60 minute lunch break at
11:45am. Register in advance. Fort Menendez / 800813-3208 / 259 San Marco Avenue, St Augustine, FL
32084 / www.fortmenendez.com
Valentine’s Day Storytime
February 11, 10:30am
Kids of all ages are invited to Barnes and Noble to read
some favorite Valentine’s Day stories and to make a
Valentine’s Day card to give to your valentine. Barnes
and Noble / 904-886-9904 / 11112 San Jose Blvd,
Jacksonville, FL 32223 / www.bn.com
“I Am Eleven” Movie Screening
February 12, 7pm to 9:30pm
Australian filmmaker Genevieve Bailey travelled the
world for six years talking with 11-year-olds to compose this insightful, funny and moving documentary
portrait of childhood. From an orphanage in India, to
a single-parent household in inner-city Melbourne,
to bathing with elephants in Thailand, I Am Eleven
explores the lives and thoughts of children from around
the world. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased
online in advance. CISV Jacksonville / Sun-Ray Cinema,
1028 Park Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.
cisvjax.org/event/i-am-eleven-movie-screening
Jacksonville Model Train and Railroadiana Show
February 14, 9am to 5pm
The Jacksonville Model Train and Railroadiana Show
returns to the Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center.
Admission is $8, children under 12 are free. Parking is
free in the main lot only.
Prime Osborn Convention Center / 1000 Water Street,
Jacksonville, FL 32204 / jaxevents.com
Wild West Express
February 14 12noon , 2pm, 4pm
February 15, 10am, 12noon , 2pm and 4pm
February 21, 10am 12noon , 2pm and 4pm
February 22, 10am, 12noon , 2pm and 4pm
The St. Marys Railroad the Wild West Express excursion. Be prepared for a shootout between the good
guys and the bad guys. Children 3-12 must be accompanied by an adult for locomotive rides. Children
under 3 not allowed on locomotive. No pets allowed
on the train. Tickets: Adults $20, Children (3-12) $14,
Children under 2 free. $50 for the Locomotive. Guests
can experience the culture of Native Americans during
pioneer days at a special Indian Village set up onpremises at the train station. Demonstrations of dance,
food preparations, blacksmithing and other cultural
highlights will go on throughout the day plus lasso and
crack whip expositions by the cowboys. Two Single
Action Shooting Society groups comprise the cowboys
who will board the train and regale passengers with
tales of the Wild West. At the Midway point, a reenactment of the shootout at OK Corral will take place
with lots of action and gunfire. On February 14, the
train rides coincide with the acclaimed St. Marys Mardi
Gras Festival that starts with a parade at 10am.
St. Marys Railroad / 912-200-5235 / 1000 Osborne
Street, St. Marys, GA, 31558 / www.stmarysrailroad.
com
Page 30 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
I Have a Dream
February 17, 10am and 12noon
I Have a Dream – The Life and Times of Dr. Martin
Luther King, Jr., will be presented by Artist Series
Broadway in Jacksonville at the Wilson Center for the
Arts. Tickets are $8.50 per person. Best for grades 3
and up. Two performances, 10am and 12noon. Call to
reserve your tickets. Artist Series of Jacksonville / 904442-2929 / Wilson Center for the Arts, 11901 Beach
Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.artistseriesjax.org
Homeschool Program: No Bones About It and Happenin’ Habitats • February 18, 9am
Students will learn about the form and function of
bones then will get up close and personal with some of
the creatures that call MOSH home. The program starts
at 9am and is $5 each for students and parents. MOSH
/ 904-396-MOSH / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville,
FL 32207 / www.themosh.org/Home.html
3rd Annual Jacksonville Science Festival
February 19 - 21
The 3rd Annual Jacksonville Science Festival returns
with three days of events. The event promotes student
driven STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts,
Math ) projects that use strategic collaboration with
teachers, experts in STEAM fields, mentors and local
businesses. There will be an art exhibition, Chalk
Walk, booths with interactive STEAM activities, and
more. Events are held on February 19 and 20 at The
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens and on February 21
at The Museum of Science and History at Friendship
Fountain Park. Jacksonville Science Festival / jacksonvillesciencefestival.com
Pirates and Princess Day
February 21, 10am to 2pm
Calling all pirates and princesses for an adventurefilled day at MOSH! Create hats and tiaras and more
at this day geared to the littlest visitors. Free with
Museum Admission. MOSH / 904-396-MOSH / 1025
Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www.themosh.org/Home.html
Skippyjon Jones Visits Storytime
February 21, 2pm
Skippyjon Jones will make a special appearance at
the storytime. Parents, be sure to bring your camera.
Barnes and Noble / 904-886-9904 / 11112 San Jose
Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / www.bn.com
Sounds of the Symphony
February 22, 3pm
Join the orchestra on a funny and educational journey
for performances of “The Thrill of the Orchestra” and
“Mr. Smith’s Composition.” With colorful narration,
you’ll go on a journey into composing a masterpiece
while learning how the instruments transform notes
into music. Join Jax4Kids.com for pre-concert activities at 2pm. Tickets start at $7.
Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra / 904-354-5547 /
Times Union Center, Jacoby Symphony Hall, 300 West
Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxsymphony.org
The Orchestra Sings
February 25, 11:30am
Jacksonville Symphony Educational Concert for
children in grades 4 and 5. Composers and musicians create melodies, which can be sung or played on
instruments. When an orchestra plays these melodies,
the orchestra sings. Students will explore melody in
a range of colorful orchestral repertoire. They will
creatively find the melody by singing, playing recorders
and composing original music. Tickets are $5.
Curriculum is from Link Up, a program of the Weill
Music Institute at Carnegie Hall.
Homeschoolers: Tickets may be purchased for the
Wednesday, February 25 performance at 11:30am.
Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra / 904-354-5547 /
Times Union Center, Jacoby Symphony Hall, 300 West
Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxsymphony.org
Miss Nelson is Missing
February 26, 10am and 12noon
Miss Nelson is Missing. Best for grades K-5. Tickets
are $8 per person. There will be two performances,
10am and 12noon. Call to reserve your tickets.
Florida Theatre / 904-355-2787 / 128 East Forsyth
Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / floridatheatre.com
Musical Madness for Kids
February 26, 4pm
The Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra presents a Musical Madness for Kids for kindergartners thru grade 5.
The event will feature the Woodwind Quintet, featuring
live performances and opportunities to learn all about
the instruments and see them up close. Ponte Vedra
Beach Branch Library / 904-827-6950 / 101 Library
Blvd. Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www.sjcpls.org
Eisenhower Dance - Motown in Motion
February 27, 10:15am to 11:15am
Especially designed for schoolchildren, this scaleddown version of Eisenhower Dance’s lavish production
Motown in Motion is a fast-paced and lively presentation. Through narration, performance and audience
interaction, the program teaches students about the life
of a professional dancer, the elements of dance and the
history of Motown. Tickets are $8. Approximate running time is 60 minutes; best for grades K-8. Thrasher
Horne Center for the Arts / 904-276-6750 / 283 College Dr, Orange Park, FL 32073 / www.thcenter.org
Girls Inc. Spring Daddy Daughter Dance
February 28, 5:30pm to 9:30pm
Fathers and daughters across the First Coast are invited to attend the sixth annual Spring Daddy Daughter
Dance hosted by Girls Inc. of Jacksonville. This event
will be held at the Prime Osborne Convention Center
with proceeds designated to empowering girls in the
community. Visit website for more information and to
register for the event. Ticket prices: $85 per couple
($30 per additional daughter), $10 discount for military.
Girls Inc / 904-329-3897 / Prime Osborn Convention
Center, 1000 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204 /
www.girlsincjax.org
Night at the Museum Camp-In
February 28, 6pm to March 1, 7am
Join MOSH for an overnight adventure that includes an
animal show, a Planetarium program, and free time to
explore the Museum. Night at the Museum Camp-In
begins at 6pm and ends the next morning at 7am. Cost
is $35 per person (adult required) and includes a late
night pizza snack and continental breakfast. Members
receive a 20% discount. Register in advance online.
MOSH / 904-396-MOSH / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www.themosh.org/Home.html
Northeast Florida Scottish Games and Festival
February 28, 9am to 10pm
The Northeast Florida Scottish Games and Festival
returns to Clay County Fairgrounds for the 19th year.
The festival will feature demonstrations, Scottish Dogs,
Sheep Herding, Harps & Bodhrans, Scottish Wares,
Clydesdales, Fencing, Traditional Music, 0
Scottish Country Dancing, Scottish Clans And Societies,
Scottish Genealogy, Battle Axe Throwing, Re-Enactors,
Scottish Food and more. There will also be two
performances by the Disc-Connected K9’s. Tickets are
$12 plus fees online in advance, or $15 at the gate. All
children 10 years of age and younger are free. Parking
is also free. Northeast Florida Scottish Games / Clay
County Fairgrounds, 2497 State Road 16 West, Green
Cove Springs, FL 32043 / neflgames.com
Black History Month Storytime
February 28, 11am
In celebration of Black History Month, come to Barnes
and Noble for Storytime and activities featuring two
notable figures with the titles I am Rosa Parks and I am
Jackie Robinson.
Barnes and Noble / 904-886-9904 / 11112 San Jose
Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / www.bn.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!
Ten Jacksonville
Area Locations!
• Baymeadows (904) 620-9884
• Blanding (904) 276-2344
• Eagle Harbor (904) 264-9111
• Hodges at JTB (904) 223-7079
• Julington Creek (904) 230-2791
• Mandarin (904) 268-4424
• Monument (904) 996-8111
• Neptune Beach (904) 241-0100
• Ponte Vedra (904) 285-4031
• Wells Road (904) 264-7555
Page 31 • Jax4Kids.com • FEBRUARY 2015
(Offer Valid For New Students Only)