Jax4Kids January 2023

LIVING WELL

Dear Readers,

E

ach January, there are opportunities to help organizations that help our children while getting some exercise and enjoying the great outdoors. One of those is the Wolfson Children’s Challenge, a family-friendly event that raises money to help fund the purchase of life-saving equipment and technology at Wolfson Children’s Hospital. Individuals and teams of all fitness levels can participate in a variety of races and fundraising activities on January 28th at 121 Financial Ballpark. Find out more about the Wolfson Children’s Challenge on page 5 and register at wolfsonchildrenschallenge.com.

The 10th Annual CHARACTER COUNTS! 6K/3K Run/Walk will be held on February 4th at Palencia Elementary School. Proceeds support CHARACTER COUNTS! initiatives throughout the St. Johns County School District. Find out more on page 18.

The JaxPAL Inaugural 5K and Fun Run will be held on January 7th at 8am at Ed Austin Park. For more information and to register, visit jaxpal.org.

FSCJ Artist Series presents Disney’s Aladdin on stage January 10th through 15th at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts. Go to fscjartistseries.org for tickets.

The Hoggetowne Medieval Faire returns on January 14–15, 21–22, and 27–29 in Gainesville. Step back in time and enjoy medieval dancers, musicians, full-contact jousts, acrobats, magicians, sword fighting, turkey legs, and much more! Tickets are available online at

HoggetowneMedFaire.com.

On January 22nd, MOSH will launch its newest exhibit – Planet Pioneers: To Mars and Beyond! Kids will learn about the challenges and risks of being an astronaut via 17 handson learning stations. This STEM-based exhibit is designed for children ages 5 to 12. For more about the exhibit and the Museum’s new program series for students, the STEAM Life Academy (S.L.A.M.), turn to page 15. Speaking of STEM, on page 14, you can find a list of YouTube Kids channels that promote STEM.

Theatre Jacksonville offers monthly in-person classes to help children build confidence, self-esteem, creativity, and a sense of fun. Visit theatrejax.com for more information about the classes and to register.

For more classes and things to do, visit us online at jax4kids.com.

Until next month,

Alison Peters-Carlson Editor

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Published by Child Enrichment, LLC, 12620-3 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246. Copyright 2023. Reproduction of any artwork or copy prepared by Jax4Kids.com To Go is strictly prohibited without written consent of the publisher. We will not be responsible for any errors and/or omissions. The Publisher’s liability for error will not exceed the cost of space occupied by the error. Articles for publication are welcome and may be sent to editor@ jax4kids.com. For more information concerning advertising, call 904-710-2020 or e-mail advertise@jax4kids.com.

Community Profile: Ability Tree First Coast 4 Become a Foster Parent ....................................................................................... 4 Lace Up Your Sneakers for the 14th Annual Wolfson Children’s Challenge 5 Mom’s Night Out Events ....................................................................................... 5

NATURE

2023 Free Park Admission Dates 6 Full Moon Calendar 2023 6 Things to Do: Nature Events 6

EATING WELL

Healthy Happy New Year! 7 Things to Do: Eating Well Events ........................................................................... 7

HEALTH & SAFETY

10 Tips for Healthy Cooking 8 Things to Do: Health & Safety Events 8 CORE: Coordinated Opioid Recovery 9 Fire Safety Checklist .............................................................................................9 Guns in the Home: Keeping Kids Safe ....................................................................9

SPECIAL NEEDS

Google Enhances Accessibility Information ........................................................... 10

Nielsen to Track Disability Representation on TV 10 Are Fidget Toys Right for Your Child? 11 Things to Do: Special Needs Events 11

INFANT & TODDLER

FDA Authorizes Updated COVID-19 Vaccines for Children Down to 6 Months of Age 12 Things to Do: Infant & Toddler Events .............................................................12-13 Sippy Cups and Bottles Recalled Due to Lead Poisoning Hazard 13 Realistic Toy Storage Ideas ................................................................................. 13

EDUCATION

YouTube Kids Channels That Promote STEM ........................................................ 14 Things to Do: Education Events 14-15 Blast Off to Another World at MOSH .................................................................... 15

The Best Picture Books to Look Forward to in 2023 16 Four Steps for Selecting the School That’s Right for Your Child .............................. 16

Duval County School News 17

St. Johns County School District News 18 Clay County School News 19

TEENS

How to Talk About Mental Health Issues ............................................................... 20 Things to Do: Teen Events 20

PETS

Cleaning and Disinfecting Pet Supplies 21 Things to Do: Pet Events 21

THINGS TO DO

January Events 22-23

Become a Foster Parent LIVING WELL

Community Profile: Ability Tree First Coast

One in six children in the U.S. have a developmental disability, and millions of special needs families in America experience isolation, confusion, depression, and feeling overwhelmed. Ability Tree First Coast creates inclusive and supportive communities where individuals and families impacted by disability can enjoy healthy relationships.

Ability Tree currently offers a variety of programs and promotes inclusion in the community through training and presentations that provide awareness and strategies for churches, businesses, schools, and organizations to assimilate these families into their visions.

CampAbility Kids Day Camp

CampAbility Kids Camp provides a recreational and educational summer program to elementary-aged children in a fun and safe environment. The recreational activities have educational components and life skills woven into them, so the campers don’t even realize they’re learning or maintaining a skill. Please be aware 1:1 support for campers is not available; however, if your camper has community support staff (like a nurse, therapist, etc.), contact Ability Tree to discuss having those supports at camp. Summer camp sessions for siblings are also offered.

CampAbility Youth Day Camp

This camp provides a recreational and life skills summer program to youth grades 6 through 12 with disabilities. Youth at this point in their lives are at an age when it’s critical they learn life skills as they get ready to transition into adulthood. The camp combines activities of daily living with fun and creativity. Ability Tree will help the campers continue learning throughout the summer and expand on skills like math, social studies, science, reading, and writing all through life activities. These activities include cooking, wacky science experiments, music, projects, acting/ role-playing, etc. There will also be multiple trips into the community to learn how to shop, express preferences, self-advocate, socially interact with others, manage money, and more.

Family SociAbility

These events provide an avenue for children with disabilities and their families to be in a comfortable environment where they can connect with other families who “walk in their

shoes.” These events may include holiday-themed activities, dances, Beachwalk family days, downtown adventures, cookouts, movie nights, and more. Registration is required for some events.

Parents Night Out (PNO)

Enjoy a night out and some rest while the Ability Tree Team hangs out with your preschool or elementary school-aged child(ren). There will be a nurse onsite, and each child with special needs is paired one-on-one with a volunteer to participate in that evening’s activities. The “Super Sibs” will be grouped with buddies as well.

SociAbility Connections

SociAbility Connections provides an avenue for children with disabilities to be in a comfortable environment where they can develop lifelong friendships while doing activities, enjoying meals, and/or dancing the night away. The socials are open to tweens, teens, and adults with disabilities, as well as local buddies, to promote inclusion and meaningful friendships. Space is limited, so please pre-register.

Freezin' For a Reason – Polar Plunge

Ability Tree First Coast is hosting its first-ever Hybrid Polar Plunge, which you can do virtually any time during plunge week or in person. This event is open to everyone: The general public and special needs families are all welcome. Accommodations are available. General admission starts at $25, with discounts for participants with disabilities. Registration includes parking, admission to the Beachwalk Lagoon, a pre-event social, a hot drink after the plunge, and a “Freezin’ For a Reason – Polar Plunge” car decal. The intentions of the Polar Plunge are to promote disability awareness and foster community inclusion as well as raise funds to make sure Ability Tree’s programs can continue to be offered and make a difference in the lives of special needs families. Virtual Plunge Week will be January 22-28, 2023, and the in-person event takes place January 28, 2023, from 10am to 12noon.

To register for these programs or others, for more information, or to see how you can help Ability Tree’s mission, call (855) 288-6735 ext. 5 or (904) 494-8583, email info@abilitytreefc. org, or visit abilitytreefc.org. j

abilitytreefc.org

Too often, due to no fault of their own, children are removed from their homes because they are unsafe. As you can imagine, this is a confusing and challenging time for many children. Whenever possible, the Florida Department of Children and Families’ network of providers works hard to locate family members or close friends in hopes that they are willing and capable of providing a safe and familiar home during this time; however, sometimes this isn’t an appropriate option.

That’s where safe, loving, and committed foster parents come in by making the transition easier and providing a safe space, both mentally and physically, for children who have already experienced so much. Foster parents are integral members of a child’s “team” and ensure all the child’s needs are met and may help strengthen the biological family. As a foster parent, you will have the opportunity to work with the child’s team, advocating for their best interest, get to know a child in your community who needs you, and even attend some dance recitals or help study for spelling quizzes along the way.

You have something unique to offer the foster care system: Some kids flourish with larger families, lots of activities, and furry friends, but there are other kids who thrive in a quieter environment with more one-to-one attention. The more diversity in foster homes, the better a professional team can match families’ unique strengths with the needs of the kids.

Rewards of Being a Foster Parent

Fostering is challenging but is ultimately an incredibly rewarding experience where you can look forward to:

• A chance to help a child through a difficult and confusing time in their life

• Pride in taking on an important and challenging role

• A chance to use your special talents and knowledge

• Celebrating new milestones and accomplishments – birthdays, graduations, or first home runs

• Making a lifetime of difference in just a short period of time

Many foster parents and their families choose to keep their homes active and continue accepting children because they find the experience so meaningful and rewarding. There will be discussions with you on what child best fits the strengths of your family and what is the appropriate amount of time a child

should stay in your home. You’ll have the chance to work with your team on what your family has to offer and make decisions together about kids that will benefit the most from your gifts.

How Do I Become a Foster Parent?

Prospective foster parents work with local community organizations to complete the licensing process; below are some of the steps they will take you on your journey to becoming a foster parent.

To qualify as a potential foster parent, you must:

• Attend an orientation

• Complete FREE foster parent educational resource hours

• Have a child abuse and fingerprint-based criminal background check

• Participate in a home inspection

• Participate in a home study to review your readiness for fostering in your home

Call 1-83-FosterFL or 1-833-678-3735 to speak directly to a foster community ambassador on the next steps for your family, or visit the foster care contacts page on myflfamilies. com to see all your options.

Support Fostering

You don't have to become a foster parent to support fostering. Protecting children and strengthening families is the responsibility of every member of the community. Fostering and adopting a child may not be an option for you; however, there are many ways to help a child or family in need in your community.

Here are some examples of how you might be able to support these families:

• Free haircuts, dental care, clothing, or transportation

• Free services based on your business: construction, home furnishings, family dinners at restaurants, mechanic services

• Scholarships or free lessons for summer camp, sports teams, dance, art, or music

You can help children and their families by:

• Providing school supplies (books, pencils, book bags, paper)

• Providing jobs for older youth

• Mentoring a child

• Contributing money or donating goods j myflfamilies.com

LIVING WELL

Lace Up Your Sneakers for the 14th Annual Wolfson Children’s Challenge

Run for the cause with team and individual race challenges benefiting Wolfson Children’s Hospital.

Help every mile bring a smile by taking part in the annual Wolfson Children’s Challenge. This family-friendly event returns on Saturday, January 28, 2023, at 121 Financial Ballpark, 301 A. Phillip Randolph Blvd. in Jacksonville! Individuals and teams of all abilities and fitness levels can participate in a variety of races and fundraising opportunities at the 14th annual event, celebrating current and former patients of Wolfson Children’s Hospital of Jacksonville and raising funds for lifesaving care.

You can give back to Wolfson Children’s by signing up as a sponsor, organizing a relay team or competing in one of following challenges:

• 55K Ultra

• 55K Relay (team of up to 11 runners)

• 30K Run

• 1-Mile Fun Run

Every year, the Wolfson Children’s Challenge honors 55 current and former patients of all ages who represent the wide range of conditions treated at Wolfson Children’s Hospital. Known as the “Wolfson 55,” each child and family has a unique story to tell about the strength and hope it takes to fight a

health battle. Registration is open now at wolfsonchildrenschallenge.com.

The Wolfson Children’s Challenge was co-founded in 2009 by the Baptist Health Foundation and Paul Wilson, whose then-newborn son, Luke, underwent corrective surgery for spina bifida just hours after his birth. Wilson and others hoped to raise $5,000 by running 55 miles, honoring the year Wolfson Children’s Hospital opened in 1955. Wilson’s mission has far surpassed his initial goal, with the Wolfson Children’s Challenge raising more than $4 million to date!

This year, the Wolfson Children’s Challenge aims to raise $125,000. All proceeds benefit the Wolfson Children’s Challenge Endowment and help fund the purchase of life-saving trauma equipment and technology for Wolfson Children’s most critically ill and injured patients.

The Wolfson Children’s Challenge is supported by the following:

Champion

Availity

Sponsor

Ultra Sponsors

CSX

Three Shawn Perce

Ladies

Night Out at Color Me Mine

January 5, 12, 19, 26, 11am to 7pm Thursday is Ladies Night Out at Color Me Mine. Ladies will receive $5 studio fees all day. Color Me Mine / 904-338-9333 / 10300 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / jacksonville.colormemine.com

Adult Craft Lab: Upcycled Decoupage Trays

January 5, 3:30pm to 4:30pm

After the holidays, there is an abundance of cardboard shipping boxes laying around. Learn how to turn leftover cardboard boxes into decorative jewelry trays. Join Melissa for an adult craft lab. Supplies available for the first 20 patrons. Free. St. Johns County Public Library, Southeast Branch / 904-827-6900 / 6670 US 1 South, St. Augustine, FL 32086 / sjcpls.org

Helmet Papercut with Artist Hiromi Moneyhun

January 6, 5:30pm to 8:30pm

Inspired by the exhibition “The Age of Armor: Treasures from the Higgins Armory Collection at the Worcester Art Museum,” participants will

papercut their own custom-designed helmet or headgear. The event is for adults, ages 18 and up. Cost is $50 for members and $65 for non-members. Registration is required.

Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens / 904-3566857 / 829 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.cummermuseum.org

Something Inside So Strong Women's Event

January 7, 11am to 3pm

Women are invited for a special event featuring panel discussions, inspirational teaching, live entertainment, beauty winks, vendors, refreshments, and more. Tickets are $25 and are available online. The Salem Centre / 7235 Bentley Road, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / somethinginsidesostrong.eventbrite.com

Lit Chat Interview with Kwame Alexander and Dare Coulter • January 10, 7pm to 8pm

Kwame Alexander and Dare Coulter join us on a tour for their new book, An American Story. They will be in conversation with local author and media personality Rahman Johnson about the process

Subaru of Jacksonville

Community

Sponsors

Brasfield & Gorrie General Contractors

W.W. Gay Mechanical Contractor, Inc.

Wolfson 55 Sponsors

Roberts

Civil Engineering

The Samuel C. Taylor Foundation Community Hospice VyStar

For more information about the event or to register online, visit wolfsonchildrenschallenge.com. For information about sponsorship, please call the Baptist Health Foundation at 904.202.2919

About Wolfson Children’s Hospital of Jacksonville

Wolfson Children’s Hospital in Jacksonville, Florida, is a part of Baptist Health, Northeast Florida’s most comprehensive health system serving every stage of life. Wolfson Children’s is the only children’s hospital in Northeast Florida and serves as the pediatric referral center for North Florida, South Georgia and beyond. Staffed 24/7 by pediatric nurses and other healthcare professionals specially trained to work with children, the 276-bed, patient- and family-centered hospital features the latest pediatric medical technology in a welcoming, child-friendly environment.

of writing and illustrating the book. This Lit Chat Interview is a 60-minute program consisting of a 40-minute conversation between author Kwame Alexander, illustrator Dare Coulter, and interviewer Rahman Johnson, followed by 20 minutes of audience Q&A. A book signing will follow, with books available for sale on-site by San Marco Books and More. This event takes place after the Main Library is closed for the evening. All attendees must enter at the Main St. entrance. Street parking is free after 6pm, and paid parking is available in the Duval St. garage. Auditorium doors will open at 6:30pm. Register to save your seat.

Jacksonville Public Library, Main Branch / 904255-2665 / 303 North Laura Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / jaxpubliclibrary.org

Forward Thinking: Building Arlington

January 21, 10:30am to 11:30am

Celebrate Regency's 50th anniversary by joining library staff for a panel that highlights the history of Arlington. The panel will discuss the past, present, and future of local structures unique to Arlington. The program will wrap up with an audience Q&A session. The event will be moderated by Tim Gilmore, local author and English professor at Florida State College at Jacksonville. Register

At Wolfson Children’s, nationally recognized pediatric specialists representing nearly every medical and surgical specialty work with pediatricians to provide care for children of all ages with congenital heart conditions, cancer, neurological disorders, diabetes and endocrinology disorders, orthopedic conditions, behavioral health conditions, traumatic injuries, and more. Wolfson Children’s collaborates with pediatric organizations, including Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville, UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, the University of Florida College of Medicine— Jacksonville and Mayo Clinic Florida.

A Magnet™-designated hospital since 2010, Wolfson Children’s Hospital has been named among the U.S. News & World Report 50 Best Children’s Hospitals year after year, and in 2021, was selected as one of only eight children’s hospitals in the country as a Leapfrog Top Children’s Hospital, a recognition of patient quality and safety. For additional information, please visit wolfsonchildrens.com. j

to save your seat. Registration must be completed two hours prior to the start time. A library card and PIN are required for registration. Free. Jacksonville Public Library, Regency Square Branch / 904-255-2665 / 9900 Regency Square Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32225 / jaxpubliclibrary.org

Master Your Motivation: Seven Strategies to Reach Your

January

Goals

25, 12noon to 1pm

If you've attempted to lose weight, eat better, exercise regularly, manage stress, or make other health improvements in the past, you may have experienced setbacks or been frustrated due to lack of motivation. This presentation will help you define your powerful motivators for change and leave you with seven practical strategies to help you reach your personal health goals. Free for adults.

Florida Blue Center – Jacksonville / 904-3635870 / 4855 Town Center Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.floridablue.com

Visit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list of Mom's Night Out events.

2023 Free Park Admission Dates Things to Do Nature Events

Entry prices at national parks have risen, but so have opportunities for Americans to gain free admission. For example, on Veteran’s Day 2020, veterans gained permanent free admission to the national parks. Fourth-grade students and their families get free admission as part of the “Every Kids Outdoors” program. With your public library card, the Real Florida Reader Day Pass provides free park admission to Florida's state parks. Luckily, there are also some days that National Parks offer free admission and some that Florida State Parks offer free admission.

2023 free days in national parks

On five days in 2023, all National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to everyone. Mark your calendar for these entrance fee-free dates in 2023:

• January 16: Martin Luther King Jr. Day

• April 22: First day of National Park Week

• August 4: Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act

• September 23: National Public Lands Day

• November 11: Veterans Day

Free days in national parks in Florida are offered here:

• Canaveral National Seashore, Titusville, and New Smyrna Beach

• Castillo De San Marcos National Monument, St. Augustine

• Everglades National Park, Miami, and Homestead

• Dry Tortugas National Park, Key West

• Gulf Islands National Seashore, Gulf Springs

Free days in Florida state parks:

• September 8: International Literacy Day: Admission is waived for anyone who has a library card, a book checked out from the library, or donates a new or gently used, family-friendly book at any state park.

• November 11: Veteran’s Day: The fee waiver does not cover expanded amenities or user fees for things such as camping, boat launches, transportation, or special tours.

Wildlife refuges where fees are waived on some free days:

• Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge

• Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge

Note that there are never any entrance fees to these parks:

• Big Cypress National Park

• Biscayne National Park

• De Soto National Monument, Bradenton

• Fort Matanzas National Monument, St. Augustine

• Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, Jacksonville j

floridarambler.com nps.gov

Full Moon Calendar 2023

January – Wolf Moon

• Full Moon Date: January 6th

• Time of Full Moon: 6:08 p.m.

February – Snow Moon

• Full Moon Date: February 5th

• Time of Full Moon: 1:29 p.m.

March – Worm Moon

• Full Moon Date: March 7th

• Time of Full Moon: 7:40 a.m.

April – Pink Moon

• Full Moon Date: April 6th

• Time of Full Moon: 12:34 a.m.

May – Flower Moon

• Full Moon Date: May 5th

• Time of Full Moon: 1:34 p.m.

June – Strawberry Moon

• Full Moon Date: June 3rd

• Time of Full Moon: 11:42 p.m.

July – Buck Moon

• Full Moon Date: July 3rd

• Time of Full Moon: 7:39 a.m.

August – Sturgeon Moon

• Full Moon Date: August 1st

• Time of Full Moon: 2:32 p.m.

August – Blue Moon

• Full Moon Date: August 30th

• Time of Full Moon: 9:36 p.m.

September – Harvest Moon

• Full Moon Date: September 29th

• Time of Full Moon: 5:58 a.m.

October – Hunter’s Moon

• Full Moon Date: October 28th

• Time of Full Moon: 4:24 p.m.

November – Beaver Moon

• Full Moon Date: November 27th

• Time of Full Moon: 4:16 a.m.

December – Cold Moon

• Full Moon Date: December 26th

• Time of Full Moon: 7:33 p.m. j

farmersalmanac.com

Annual Christmas Bird Count

Thru January 5

Audubon's 123rd Christmas Bird Count will be conducted between December 14 and January 5. Your local count will occur on one day between those dates. Participate in as many counts as you wish. There is a specific methodology to the CBC, and all participants must make arrangements to participate in advance with the circle compiler within an established circle, but anyone can participate. Count volunteers follow specified routes through a designated 15-mile (24-km) diameter circle, counting every bird they see or hear all day. It's not just a species tally — all birds are counted all day, giving an indication of the total number of birds in the circle that day. If you are a beginning birder, you will be able to join a group that includes at least one experienced birdwatcher. Audubon / 844-428-3826 / www.audubon.org

St. Johns County Annual Christmas Treecycling • Thru January 4

Help reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills during the holidays by bringing your real Christmas tree to designated county sites to be recycled. Recycled trees will be used as mulch in county parks. Only clean, real trees free of decorations will be accepted.

Drop-off locations: Ron Parker, 607 Old Beach Road – by the Community Garden & Dog Park Mills Field, 1805 Racetrack Road – in the back of the east parking lot

First Tee site at St. Johns County Golf Course, 4401 Cypress Links Blvd – right off the main road to the golf course Davis Park, 210 Davis Park Road – in the first parking lot

Tillman Ridge Stratton Transfer Station St. Johns County Parks & Recreation / 904209-0333 / www.sjcfl.us

Dazzling Nights at Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens

Thru January 1, 5:30pm to 9pm

The Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens hosts Dazzling Nights, a holiday display featuring a million lights and interactive displays set up along winding pathways. There will be a photo opportunity in front of a unique 30’ tall, towering Christmas tree, live entertainment, holiday-inspired food and drinks, interactive lights on the ground that light up when you walk on them, a forest of light and fog, a 65’ long tunnel of light, snow, and holiday music. Tickets must be purchased for a specific time and date and are not available at the door. Cost is $25 per adult and $22 per child (plus fees). Children 2 and under enter free. On-site parking is $12 and must be

purchased in advance, online only. Free offsite parking is available with a complimentary shuttle service.

Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens / 904318-4342 / 1445 Millcoe Road, Jacksonville, FL 32225 / www.dazzlingjax.com

Kids and Bees

January 6, 9am to 12noon

Local and visiting elementary-aged kids are welcomed to Florida’s Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront to participate in the "Kids and Bees" event. This no-charge educational program is open to school groups, homeschooled students, scouts, and clubs. The mission of the Kids and Bees program is to educate the next generation on the importance of bees and to inspire them to take part in their preservation and conservation. The event will feature hands-on exhibits under the themes “The Art of Beekeeping,” “The Science of Beekeeping,” “The World of Beekeeping,” and “The Future of Bees: It’s Up to You!” Learn about the art and science behind beeswax, honey, pollination, ultraviolet bee vision, and more. Students will make their way through each station, engaging with beekeepers from around the United States in activities that will harness their senses and imaginations. Reserve your spot online in advance. Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront / 225 E Coastline Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.kidsandbees.org

Free Entry at all National Parks for Martin Luther King Jr. Day • January 16

In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, entrance into National Park Service sites across the country will be free.

Parks in our area include Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve, Fort Caroline National Memorial, Cumberland Island National Seashore, Castillo de San Marcos, Fort Matanzas National Monument, Fort Frederica National Monument, Fort Pulaski National Monument, and Savannah Historic District National Landmark.

National Park Service / www.nps.gov

Nature Journaling

January

21, 10am to 12noon

Join a Park Naturalist every month for a class on various Nature Journaling techniques and locations. This class will give you the basic skills, as well as hone any journaling skills you may already have. You will have the opportunity to purchase a journal at the course for an additional $10. The fee for the class is $5. Open to ages 10 and up. Vaill Point Park / 904-209-0333 / 630 Vaill Point Road, St. Augustine, FL 32086 / www.sjcfl.us

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

EATING WELL

Healthy Happy New Year!

Things to Do Eating Well Events

Children’s Winter Afternoon Cooking Series • January 17, 24, 31, February 7 and 21, 3:30pm to 5:30pm

I

Publix New Year's Camp

t’s a New Year! An opportunity to start fresh. What areas are you looking forward to making positive changes in this year? What are your diet and exercise goals for you and your family? We have so many ways to make better choices in our eating and exercise habits.

Eat More Plant-Based

• Start with one meal a week and focus on a way to make it vegetarian. For example, bean and cheese quesadillas, grilled cheese and tomato soup, pasta tossed with veggies and chickpeas, or a hearty bean soup will all provide protein.

• Try a plant-based milk as a dairy alternative. There are delicious milk alternatives on the market made from soy, cashews, almonds, coconut, oat, and pea protein. Read the labels, as carbohydrate, fat, and protein amounts will vary with each one.

• Try protein-rich Greek yogurt mixed with fruits/granola as part of a healthy breakfast in place of pork sausage or bacon.

Cut Down on Sugars/Carbohydrates

• Skip the sodas! Each 12-ounce can of regular soda has about 10 teaspoons of sugar in it.

• Watch out for flavored waters, including those with added vitamins; they too can have a lot of carbohydrates from added sugars.

• Be wary of bottled coffee drinks, which also contain a high amount of sugar for flavoring.

• Energy drinks are promoted as such to give you a burst of energy, but unfortunately, the quick energy comes from high sugar content. If you don’t use those calories, they get stored as fat reserves.

Cook at Home More/Eat Out Less

• Plan meals early in the week so you can shop smartly and have those food items on hand during the week.

• Meals made at home are generally lower in calorie and fat content than take-out. Choose healthy meals that you and your family can prepare together.

• If you do need to grab something on the go, think deli sandwiches, soup, noodle bowls, or salads. Any fried foods or fast foods will generally be higher in fat and calories. j

Aurea Thompson MSH, RDN, CSP, LDN Certified Pediatric Nutrition Specialist Wolfson Children’s Hospital

January 1-3, 10am and 2pm

Publix Aprons hosts three days of chef camps for kids ages 8 and up. Register online in advance, as classes fill up quickly. Kids camps are for ages 8 to 10 and are held at 10am; juniors ages 11 to 12 and teens 13 to 17 are held at 2pm. Registration is $135 for the three days. Each day will feature a different menu theme.

Publix Aprons Cooking School / 904-2624187 / 10500 San Jose Blvd Ste 36, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www.publix.com

Big and Little Chef: Exploring Grilled Cheese • January 7, 10am

Big Chef, Little Chef series classes are designed specifically for a guardian/parent, older sibling (18 or older), etc. paired with a young chef. Each pair will work together (along with the rest of the students) to create delicious recipes that are appropriate for adults and kids alike. Big Chef must be 18 or older, and the Little Chef age range should be 5 to 12 years old. The menu features Tomato Soup, Bacon and Tomato Grilled Cheese, Cheesy Quesadilla with Homemade Salsa, and Cinnamon-Raisin Swirl Bread Grilled Cheese with Chocolate-Hazelnut Spread. Cost is $80 for each parent/child combo.

Publix Aprons Cooking School / 904-2624187 / 10500 San Jose Blvd Ste 36, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www.publix.com

Family Fun: Pizza & Calzones at Sur La Table • January 8, 1pm

Bring the family along to learn how to mix a foolproof dough that makes more than just pies. Participants will learn to shape pizza knots and practice filling and folding a sausage calzone. Plus, take kid-friendly pizza to new levels of deliciousness with homemade tomato sauce and three kinds of bubbly, gooey cheese. Cost is $69 per person for ages 7 and up. A paying adult must accompany ages 17 and under. Sur la Table / 904-719-7597 / 4713 River City Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.surlatable.com

In this cooking series, children learn to cook by actually preparing the menu items themselves each day, not by watching someone else cook. When children cook the food themselves, they are more likely to try what they have prepared. Throughout the series, kids will practice knife skills, work with savory and sweet doughs, sear proteins, and practice baking. At the end of each class, the kids enjoy the food they have prepared. This series is intended for children ages 7 or older. Cost is $300 for the entire five-week series. Jax Cooking Studio / 904-379-6220 / 14035 Beach Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / jaxcookingstudio.com

Big and Little Chef: Savory Baked Goods

January 21, 10am

Big Chef, Little Chef series classes are designed specifically for a guardian/parent, older sibling (18 or older), etc. paired with a young chef. Each pair will work together (along with the rest of the students) to create recipes that are appropriate for adults and kids alike. Big Chef must be 18 or older, and the Little Chef age range should be 5 to 12 years old. The menu features Beef Stew Hand Pie, Three-Cheese Scones, Cuban-Style Pinwheels, and Sausage and Pepper Calzone. Cost is $80 for each parent/child combo. Publix Aprons Cooking School / 904-2624187 / 10500 San Jose Blvd Ste 36, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www.publix.com

Jax Cooking Studio: Family Cooking: Chinese New Year Meal

January 22, 6pm to 8:30pm

Come celebrate the Chinese New Year at JAX Cooking Studio and ring in the year of the Rabbit. From dumplings and spring rolls to seared cod with lo mein noodles, each recipe will bring you luck in 2023. Finish the night with a sweet slice of mandarin orange cake. Complimentary wine is provided during the cooking experience. Registration ranges from $70 to $170. Jax Cooking Studio / 904-3796220 / 14035 Beach Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / jaxcookingstudio.com

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

“Never

Basic CPR Class • January 11, 6pm

10 Tips for Healthy Cooking HEALTH & SAFETY Things to Do Health & Safety Events

When you set out to eat healthier, it can be difficult to figure out which ingredients to use or how to make your favorite recipes a bit lighter. Here are some cooking tips to make better choices in the kitchen.

1. Always read the recipe. This may sound obvious, but reading through a recipe before making it will make the process easier and give you clues about how important certain ingredients are to the recipe and which ones you can cut back on or substitute for healthier options.

2. Get to know spices, herbs, and seasonings. Salt isn’t the only way to flavor food. There are many other spices, herbs, and seasonings out there that are sodium-free yet packed with flavor and potential health benefits. A great way to get to know new flavors is by trying out new cuisines, such as Indian, Mediterranean, Asian, Mexican, and Caribbean.

3. Invest in a kitchen scale. While helpful in baking, it’s also an important tool for measuring portion sizes. By weighing out your meats and grains, you’ll get a much better idea of what a serving actually looks like.

4. There’s always room for more veggies. It’s easy to get caught up in thinking about what we should limit or restrict, but individuals tend to do better when they think about what they can add to their recipes to make them healthier. Simply start by adding more vegetables to some of your family’s favorite meals.

5. Don’t neglect plant-based proteins. While there’s room for chicken and other animal products in a healthy diet, plant-based proteins like beans and lentils are incredibly healthy for us (and much cheaper). Try making one meatless meal per week to start. Not only will this give your diet a fiber boost, but it’s also a good way to experiment with new plant-based foods that you might not have tried before.

6. Become friends with YouTube. A common barrier to healthy cooking is not knowing basic cooking techniques. While cookbooks can be helpful, cooking videos can be even better as

they show you step-by-step how to prepare a meal or an ingredient. Once you have some of the basic techniques down, you’ll find making other recipes to be so much easier.

7. Learn to love Greek yogurt. Sour cream, heavy cream, and even cream cheese can often be at least partially subbed out with this lower-calorie, higher-protein option. It can also be used in baking to replace about half of the butter in quick breads, pancakes, and muffins.

8. Embrace healthy fats. Healthy fats have many important functions in our bodies and have been shown to help with weight control. Just remember that not all oils can be cooked to high heat. For stir-fries and roasting, stick with avocado oil and leave the extra-virgin olive oil for raw or lower-heat cooking.

9. Choose more whole, high-quality ingredients. As convenient as packaged foods can be, try to start moving away from pre-seasoned rice packets, processed meats, and canned vegetables. Many of these convenience foods are packed full of salt, fat, sugar, and artificial ingredients while being low in important nutrients.

10. Swap white grains for whole grains. You can’t talk about healthy cooking without including whole grains. Grains like white rice and white pasta are lower in fiber and stripped of many of their nutrients. Whole grains, on the other hand, are high in fiber and nutrients, helping to keep you fuller for longer. While brown rice and quinoa are easy to find, try out other whole grains, as they each have their own distinct flavor and texture. Barley, buckwheat, farro, and freekeh are all good ones to try.

Update your recipes and play around with lighter ingredients to see how it impacts the overall nutrition profile of the dish with the Lose It! App available in the Apple App Store or Google Play. j

loseitblog.com

MOSH Om in the Dome

January 6, 6:30pm to 7:30pm

Join yoga instructor Clara LeBlanc for a unique yoga experience under the stars inside the Bryan-Gooding Planetarium at MOSH. Listen to your mind as your body guides you through the movements in this cosmic experience. No yoga experience necessary. Doors open at 6pm. The practice begins at 6:30pm. Please bring your own yoga mat. Cost is $22.50 for MOSH Members and $25 for Non-Members. MOSH / 904-396-6674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org

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

2023 Resolution Run 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run • January 14, 8am

Put your New Year's Resolution into action. The course takes you out and back along the St. John's River. Registration fees start at $35. The 5K will begin at 8am. The free Children's 1-Mile Fun Run starts at 9:30am. There is no pre-registration. Please register at the Children's Fun Run table at the race.

JaxPAL

Inaugural 5K and Fun Run January 7, 8am

The JaxPAL Inaugural 5K and Fun Run will take place at Ed Austin Park. The start time is 8am. Registration ranges from $30 to $40 for the 5K. The 1-mile fun run is $5 for ages 12 and under, $10 for ages 13 and up, and free for all JaxPAL Kids. Ed Austin Park / 904630-2489 / 3450 Monument Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32225 / www.jaxpalsports.org

It Is Okay Not to Be Okay January 10, 6:30pm

Every DCPS student has access to free mental health counseling. The district is committed to working with community partners to help students strengthen their mental and emotional wellness to help remove barriers to academic success. Participate in this extremely valuable course to learn how to help your child(ren) access this service. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a free family resource that promotes parental involvement, enhances student achievement, and supports a caregiver's need for personal and individual growth. Parent Academy courses are offered virtually through Microsoft Teams. Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / dcps.duvalschools.org

Bestbet Orange Park Kennel Club / 455 Park Ave, Orange Park, FL 32073 / floridastriders.com

14th Annual Wolfson Children's Challenge January 28, 7am

The Wolfson Children's Challenge celebrates their patients' lives while benefiting the region's only children's hospital. At Wolfson's, no child is ever turned away because of an inability to pay, and funds raised from The Wolfson's Children's Challenge help ensure that every child continues to receive the world-class care they need and deserve. The 55K solo and relay will begin at 7am, followed by the 30K solo at 8am and the 1-mile fun run at 1:30pm. Registration starts at $10.

The Wolfson Children's Challenge honors 55 children, each representing the tens of thousands of children who are cared for by Wolfson Children's Hospital each year. The event has a fundraising goal of $150,000. Park in Lot P and Lot J, near TIAA Bank Field. ADA accessible parking spaces can be found in Lot P, closest to the 121 Financial Ballpark. 121 Financial Ballpark / 904-202-2919 / 301 A Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.wolfsonchildrenschallenge.com

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

HEALTH & SAFETY

CORE: Coordinated Opioid Recovery Guns in the Home: Keeping Kids Safe

Coordinated Opioid Recovery (CORE) is the first of its kind in the United States and places Florida as a leader in sustainable addiction and opioid recovery.

The Florida Department of Health, the Florida Department of Children and Families, and the Agency for Health Care Administration are partnering to implement a network of addiction care in up to 12 counties in Florida.

Standard treatment programs have had limited success in creating long-term recoveries for this lifelong illness. This innovative program is the first of its kind in the country, expanding a state-supported cohesive coordinated system of addiction care for individuals suffering from substance use disorder.

This comprehensive approach expands every aspect of overdose response and treats all primary and secondary impacts of substance use disorder. From care and peer navigators directly within an emergency department to sustainable overall health care, this structure disrupts the revolving door of addiction and overdose.

The network does not solely depend on emergency response for overdoses and substance use disorder, ensuring patients are also stabilized and treated for coexisting medical and mental health conditions. Patients

will need dental care, primary care, psychiatric evaluation, maternal care, and social support services. Social support services can address career training, housing, or food insecurity.

To combat the opioid crisis, Florida Overdose Data to Action’s (OD2A's) goal is to prevent opioid-related harms and overdose by working with providers and health systems to reduce unsafe exposure to opioids and treat addiction.

To find your closest treatment location visit samhsa.gov.

There are also a variety of ways to help reduce exposure to opioids and prevent opioid use disorder, such as:

• Florida's Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP)

• Academic detailing to educate providers about opioid prescribing guidelines and facilitating conversations with patients about the risks and benefits of pain treatment options

• Quality improvement programs in health care systems to increase implementation of recommended prescribing practices

• Patient education on the safe storage and disposal of prescription opioids

• Improve awareness and share resources about the risks of prescription opioids and the cost of overdose on patients and families j

floridahealth.gov

Fire Safety Checklist

Check Smoke Alarms

• Make sure there is a working smoke alarm on every level of your home, inside bedrooms, and near sleeping areas.

• Test smoke alarms every month.

• Replace smoke alarms every 10 years.

Create and Practice a Fire Escape Plan

• Create a home fire escape plan with two ways out of every room.

• Practice a home fire drill at least twice a year with your family.

• Choose a place to meet outside that is a safe distance away from your home.

In an Emergency, Leave Home Immediately

• Make sure your family leaves the home immediately if there is a fire.

• Choose the safest escape route. If there is a lot of smoke, get low and crawl out of the house as quickly as possible.

• Call 911 after you are a safe distance away from your home. j safekids.org

Did you know that roughly a third of U.S. homes with children have guns? In fact, an estimated 4.6 million kids live with unlocked, loaded guns

Firearms are now the leading cause of death for U.S. children and teens under the age of 18. And the reality is that having firearms in the home increases the risk of unintentional shootings, suicide, and homicide.

Unintentional shootings & gun injuries

Unintentional shootings happen to children of all ages. In homes with guns, the likelihood of accidental death by shooting is four times higher.

Between 2015 and 2020, there were at least 2,070 unintentional shootings by children. In 2020 alone, at least 125 toddlers and children ages 5 and under shot themself or someone else.

Suicide risk with guns in the home

Kids and adolescents are at an increased risk for suicide when there is a gun in the home, too. Suicide rates in this population are four times higher than kids who live in homes without guns. In the past decade, 40% of the suicides committed by kids and teens involved guns. Nine out of 10 of these suicides were with guns that the victims accessed at their own homes or from a relative's home.

Guns, kids, and homicides

The risk of homicide is three times higher when there are guns in the home. Not only that, but 58% of shooting deaths in children and teens are homicides.

The most effective way to keep kids safe

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises that the safest home for a child is one without guns. The most effective way to prevent unintentional gun injuries, suicide, and homicide to children and adolescents, research shows, is the absence of guns from homes and communities.

What to do if you do keep a gun in your home

If you decide to keep guns in the home, be aware that many studies show that teaching

kids about gun safety, or to not touch a firearm if they find one, is not enough. You can reduce the chances of children being injured, however, by following important safety rules:

• Safe gun storage. All guns in your home should be locked and unloaded, with ammunition locked separately. Make sure children and teens can't access the keys or combinations to lock boxes or gun safes. And remember not to keep loaded, unlocked guns in the car or anywhere else on your property, either.

• Safety steps when using firearms. When using a gun for hunting or target practice, keep the safety catch in place until you are ready to fire it. Before setting the gun down, always unload it. As much as a child may want to take a turn shooting, this is not a good idea. No matter how much instruction you may give about how to safely shoot a gun, children are not capable or responsible enough to handle a potentially lethal weapon.

How to keep your kids safe in other homes

More than a third of all unintentional shootings of children take place in the homes of their friends, neighbors, or relatives. That's why it is also important to make sure your kids are safe when they spend time where other people live by doing the following:

• Add this question to your playdate checklist. Even if you don't have guns in your own home, ask about guns and safe storage at the other homes your children visit.

• Talk with your children about guns. Remind your kids that if they ever come across a gun, they must stay away from it and tell you immediately.

Guns in the media

Make sure your children understand that gun violence they may see on TV, in movies, and in video games they play is not real. Although the popular media often romanticize gun use, children need to learn that these weapons can be extremely dangerous. j

Judy Schaechter, MD, MBA, FAAP healthychildren.org

Google is making it easier to find out if places in the community are accessible to people with disabilities, all with the touch of a button.

The company said recently that it is expanding a feature called “Accessible Places,” which allows Google Maps users to see if businesses are wheelchair accessible and free of stairs.

Google originally rolled out Accessible Places in 2020 in the U.S., Australia, Japan, and the United Kingdom but now says the option is available globally and includes details on more than 40 million locations.

To view Accessible Places, users must turn on the appropriate option within “accessibility settings” for the Google Maps app. Once enabled, a wheelchair icon will show on the business profile of locations with accessible entrances. The icon will have a strike-through to indicate an inaccessible entrance.

Users can also see if a location has accessible seating, restrooms, and parking, Google said.

The company indicated that it has collected over a billion accessibility updates from business owners and the Google Maps community. Individual users can contribute information to a business profile by clicking on “about,” selecting “edit features,” and tapping “accessibility features.” j

disabilityscoop.com

It’s long been known that people with disabilities are underrepresented on television, but now a prominent industry service is looking to measure the trend in hopes of prompting more inclusion.

Gracenote, a company owned by television ratings giant Nielsen, which collects and provides data on the entertainment industry, says it will start tracking representation of people with disabilities on the small screen.

The company is measuring disability representation for broadcast, cable, and streaming television programming in the U.S. as part of Gracenote’s Inclusion Analytics, which already tracks the gender, race, ethnicity, and sexual orientation of talent. Individuals will be tagged as being part of one or more of six categories: neurodivergence, intellectual/developmental, visual, hearing, physical, and mental health.

Data will also be available on indigenous and people of color with disabilities, the company said, with more parameters coming soon.

“More than one in four adults in the U.S. today are living with a disability, yet actors without disabilities are still cast to portray them in TV shows and films,” said Halleh Kianfar, vice president of product at Gracenote. “Initiating positive change starts with measuring the diversity of talent featured across a range of identity groups and intersectionalities, and we’re proud that Gracenote Inclusion Analytics serves this critical purpose.”

Gracenote said it worked with the disability nonprofit RespectAbility to develop the new tracking.

“Being able to measure the gap in representation of disability is a powerful capability that equips the media industry to act and invest in representative content and disabled talent,” said Lauren Appelbaum, senior vice president of communications and entertainment and news media at RespectAbility. “We hope tracking representation will lead to an increase over time.” j

disabilityscoop.com

Hope Academy

Hope After School

SPECIAL NEEDS

Are Fidget Toys Right for Your Child?

Things to Do Special Needs Events

CARD Retro Diner

January 11, 5pm to 6pm

F

idget toys are just about everywhere and, in every way, shape, or form. Sure, they're popular, but have you ever wondered if fidgets can benefit your child therapeutically? Have you wondered where to start when trying to decide if fidgets are right for your child?

First, let’s answer what a fidget, or fidget toy, actually is. A fidget is anything small that you can manipulate with your fingers or hands. Some fidgets might be fashioned into toys, like pop-its, fidget cubes, spinners, or marble-inmesh pockets. Other kids may fashion their own fidgets out of paper, a retractable pen, necklace, or hair tie. Some fidgets may be more or less appropriate than others. For example, clicking a silent button on the side of a fidget cube is going to be more appropriate than clicking a pen loudly in class, and manipulating a marble pocket is more appropriate than tearing up the edges of a worksheet or taking the battery cover off the back of a remote.

Now that we know what fidgets are, let’s talk about how fidgets can be helpful. Many children who have ADHD or anxiety, and those who are just “wiggly," will tend to naturally fidget with items that are easily accessible. Ideally, a fidget can be used as the designated item to manipulate. Emerging research indicates that using appropriate fidgets can help kids reign in their wiggles, pay better attention during academic time, and reduce disruption or destructive behaviors as well.

So how can we determine which fidget is best out of all of the options out there? No single fidget is going to be the best for every child, and it may take a little experimentation to determine which fidget might be best for your kiddo. Here are some factors to consider when evaluating different fidget options for your child:

1. Form and Function – What is your child currently using to fidget with? There may be a more appropriate fidget toy to use that is similar in form or function that you can easily swap. Marble pockets are a great alternative to battery covers, pen clicking, and paper ball rolling. Stress balls are a good alternative to hand tapping or moving items on a tabletop. Tangles or worm fidgets are a great option to replace hair twirling, rubber band/hair-tie manipulation, or playing with necklaces.

2. Increasing Attention – When your child is using a fidget, check to see if it is helping your child pay attention more to instruction or an activity. If you’re noticing that your child is paying more attention to the fidget than to the activity, that may be a better option as a fun toy rather than a helpful fidget.

3. Decreasing Disruption – The use of the fidget should be non-disruptive itself. If using the fidget is making loud noises in a quiet environment, that fidget may have to be saved for playtime or louder environments. For example, while fidget spinners may be a lot of fun, they often make a lot of noise while they spin or fall onto desks or the floor, causing more disruption. On the other hand, many fidgets, like pop-its, can be silent and replace other disruptive behaviors like pen-clicking.

4. Active Engagement – Finally, is your child actually using the fidget? If your child isn’t interested in the fidget or isn’t actively engaging with it to help them concentrate, then it’s not a good choice. You’ll want to find a fidget that your child enjoys using and is likely to pick up independently. j

Molly Hankla, MA, BCBA floridachildrensinstitute.com

Adults with autism spectrum disorder will have the opportunity to engage in facilitated social conversations via Zoom. This event will temporarily take the place of the Breakfast Club Meetings during the COVID-19 pandemic. Center for Autism and Related Disabilities / 904-633-0760 / pediatrics.med.jax.ufl.edu

CARD Parent Support Group/Craft Group

January 11, 5:30pm

A Parent Support Group for parents of CARD constituents. Conversation-based and activity-based craft group for parents led by CARD clinicians. Parents will be able to join virtually from the comfort of their homes or come into the office. Center for Autism & Related Disabilities / 904-633-0760 / 6271 St Augustine Road, Suite 1, Jacksonville, FL 32217 / www.hscj.ufl.edu

30th Annual CARD Conference

January 13-15

The purpose of the annual statewide CARD conference is to provide information on stateof-the-art practices in areas that promote best practices in education, early intervention, and quality community-based lifestyles for individuals with autism, deaf-blindness, and related disabilities. The weekend will feature keynote speakers, conference sessions, breakout speakers, and more. Tickets start at $45. Florida Hotel and Conference Center / 407-823-6020 / 1500 Sand Lake Road, Orlando, FL 32809 / cardconference.info

Sensory Story Time

January 17, 2pm to 3pm

Sensory Story Time is a monthly playgroup for children between the ages of 3 to 6 years who are registered with CARD or FDLRSMDC. The focus of the group is to offer a safe, comfortable space for children and their parent(s) to participate in Story Time together. Sensory story time differs from traditional story time by offering hands-on participation, sensory input, and movement activities to help children stay engaged. Parents will learn strategies to encourage story time at home and in the community (like the local library). Sensory story time is also an opportunity for parents to network with other parents of children with developmental delays. Free to attend, but please register, as space is limited to eight children.

UF Neurodevelopmental Pediatric Center / 904-633-0760 / 6271 St Augustine Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32217 / ufhealthjax.org

Sibshops • January 18, 5:30pm

Sibshop is a gathering of siblings across the

ages to create community, build support, and share in the stories that make them unique as siblings of individuals with developmental, intellectual, social-emotional, and medical disabilities. Siblings will be able to join virtually. There will be in-person opportunities available soon. For ages 8 to 12. UF Health Center for Autism and Related Disabilities / 904-6330760 / pediatrics.med.jax.ufl.edu

Kiddin’ Around – Social Skills January 26, 5:30pm

A program that focuses on opportunities for social interaction with peers via social-emotional activities and games. Skill areas include sharing the conversation, waiting, turn-taking, giving compliments, being empathetic, building community, accepting feedback, oversharing of information, and making friends. For ages 8 to 12. Held in person or virtually.

Jacksonville Center for Autism and Related Disabilities / 904-633-0760 / 6271 St Augustine Road, Jacksonville, FL 32217 / pediatrics.med.jax.ufl.edu

Behavioral Detective Social Skills Club

January 26, 5:30pm

Behavioral Detective Social Skills Club focuses on teaching students important social skills for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder or related disabilities (that are conversationally appropriate) ages 8 to 12. Students learn how to be “Behavioral Detectives” and develop strategies for dealing with difficult social situations. Participants will be given strategies on how to initiate interactions and conversations, stay on topic, think from another’s point of view, read other’s nonverbal language, give compliments and take criticism, take responsibility and let go of control, and how to accept making mistakes and apologize when they’ve been made. Additional topics covered include dealing with anger, being a friend, understanding sarcasm, jargon and teasing, and learning to be a self-advocate. The Club utilizes several different instructional methods, including visual organizers, ABA ideals, interactive games, peer support, and video modeling.

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

Sensory Friendly Storytime

January 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 11am to 11:30am

January 4, 18, 25, 11am to 11:30am

Children are invited for stories, music, and movement in a small, welcoming environment

Tuesdays at the Pablo Creek Regional Branch Library and Wednesdays at the Mandarin Branch. This program, designed for children ages 2 to 5 with sensory sensitivities, combines traditional storytime components with supportive elements. Attendance is limited to enhance the experience. Jacksonville Public Library / 904-255-2665 / jaxpubliclibrary.org

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

“What the new year brings to you will depend a great deal on what you bring to the new year.”

– Vern McLellan

FDA Authorizes Updated COVID-19 Vaccines for Children Down to 6 Months of Age

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has amended the emergency use authorizations (EUAs) of the updated (bivalent) Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines to include use in children down to 6 months of age.

What parents and caregivers need to know:

• Children 6 months through 5 years who received the original (monovalent) Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine are now eligible to receive a single booster of the updated (bivalent) Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine two months after completing a primary series with the monovalent Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine.

• Children 6 months through 4 years who have not yet begun their three-dose primary series of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine or have not yet received the third dose of their primary series will now receive the updated (bivalent) Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine as the third dose in their primary series following two doses of the original (monovalent) Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine.

• Children 6 months through 4 years who have already completed their three-dose primary series with the original (monovalent) Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine will not be eligible for a booster dose of an updated bivalent vaccine at this time. Children in this age group who already completed their primary series would still be expected to have protection against the most serious outcomes from the currently circulating omicron variant. The data to support giving an updated bivalent booster dose for these children are expected in January.

• The Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech bivalent COVID-19 vaccines include an mRNA component corresponding to the original strain to provide an immune response that is broadly protective against COVID-19 and an mRNA component corresponding to the omicron variant BA.4 and BA.5 lineages to provide better protection against COVID-19 caused by the omicron variant.

• Individuals who receive the updated (bivalent) vaccines may experience similar side effects reported by individuals who received previous doses of the original (monovalent) mRNA COVID-19 vaccines.

• The fact sheets for both bivalent COVID-19 vaccines for recipients and caregivers and for healthcare providers include information about the potential side effects, as well as

the risks of myocarditis and pericarditis.

The safety of a single booster dose of the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine, Bivalent for children 6 months through 5 years is supported by safety data from a clinical study that evaluated a booster dose of Moderna’s investigational bivalent COVID-19 vaccine (original and omicron BA.1), safety data from clinical trials which evaluated primary and booster vaccination with the monovalent Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine, and postmarketing safety data with the monovalent Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine and Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine, Bivalent.

The safety of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine, Bivalent for administration as the third dose of a three-dose primary series following two doses of the monovalent Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine in children 6 months through 4 years is based on safety data from a clinical study that evaluated a booster dose of Pfizer-BioNTech’s investigational bivalent COVID-19 vaccine (original and omicron BA.1) in individuals greater than 55 years, safety data from clinical trials that evaluated primary vaccination in individuals 6 months and older with the monovalent Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine, safety data from clinical trials that evaluated booster vaccination in individuals 5 years and older with the monovalent Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine, and postmarketing safety data with the monovalent Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine and the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine, Bivalent.

“Vaccines remain the best defense against the most devastating consequences of disease caused by the currently circulating omicron variant, such as hospitalization and death. Based on available data, the updated, bivalent vaccines are expected to provide increased protection against COVID-19,” said Peter Marks, M.D., Ph.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research. “Parents and caregivers can be assured that the FDA has taken a great deal of care in our review, and we encourage parents of children of any age who are eligible for primary vaccination or a bivalent COVID-19 vaccine booster dose to consider seeking vaccination now as it can potentially help protect them from COVID-19 during a time when cases are increasing.”

j

Things to Do Infant

& Toddler Events

MOSH Molecules

January 4, 7, 11, 14, 18, 21, 25, 28

The Museum of Science & History’s early childhood program provides big learning for the youngest guests. Geared for children ages 3, 4, and 5, MOSH Molecules allows you and your child to explore and create memories in a safe environment. Each lesson is offered on Wednesdays at 9:30am and again on Saturdays at 10am. Lessons are one hour long and build upon ideas learned in the previous class over the course of four weeks. Registration for a full, four-lesson month is not required but is encouraged for an enhanced educational experience. Registration is $24.50 and includes program admission for one child and one adult as well as admission to the Museum following the program. Tickets for a full, four-lesson month are available for $90. Museum of Science and History / 904-3966674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org

Crafty Tots

January 4, 11, 18, 10am to 11am

Kids ages 1 through 5 are invited for a storytime, snack, and craft. A parent or guardian must be present during the class. Free, but registration is required.

Solomon Calhoun Center / 904-209-0379 / 1300 Duval Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.sjcfl.us

Baby Storytime

January 4, 11, 18, 25, 10:15am

This gentle lapsit program features action rhymes, songs, and stories presented in a circle time format. For babies up to 12 months; siblings welcome. Please RSVP for each child and adult attending the program. St. Johns County Public Library, Ponte Vedra Beach Branch / 904-827-6950 / 101 Library Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / sjcpls.org

Little Learners at MOSH

January 5, 9:30am to 11:30am

Little Learners programs provide guests with the opportunity to explore MOSH and participate in hands-on activities in a social environment. Geared towards students ages 0 to 5 and their caregivers, Little Learners sessions are offered monthly and provide children with circle time in the Bryan-Gooding Planetarium, STEM-based activity stations throughout the Museum, and passport stickers as proof of their visit. Program admission is $24.50 per child and caregiver and includes access to the program and Museum admission. Museum of Science and History / 904-396-6674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org

Sippy Cups and Bottles Recalled Due to Lead Poisoning Hazard Realistic Toy Storage Ideas

On November 23, 2022, the baby product company Green Sprouts issued a voluntary recall of more than 10,000 stainless steel bottles and sippy cups because of lead poisoning concerns.

“It is unacceptable that these cups may have exposed children to lead, a potent neurotoxin,” said Olga Naidenko, Ph.D., vice president of science investigations at the Environmental Working Group. “Companies must vigorously test their products for lead, especially those marketed for use by babies and children.”

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the faulty products include 6-ounce and 8-ounce stainless steel cups and bottles. The recall affects all stainless steel bottles with a removable base cover. The bottom base cap of these cups can break off to expose a solder dot containing lead that could pose a hazard.

Consumers should immediately stop using the affected products and discard them.

That same day, more than 85,000 items of Disney-themed children's clothing also were recalled due to the exposure risk from lead in textile ink. The recalled sets of clothing contained levels of lead that exceeded the federal lead paint ban or the federal lead content ban. The clothing was sold at T.J. Maxx, Ross, Burlington, Army and Air Force Exchange Service, and online at Amazon from November 2021 through August 2022.

Things to Do

Infant & Toddler Events

Pediatric Associates Virtual New Parent Class • January 17, 6pm to 7pm

Designed specifically for expectant parents, the free virtual one-hour course covers numerous topics on preparing for your new arrival, such as your child's development, immunizations, breast versus bottle feeding, and more. Pediatric Associates / 954-9668000 / www.pediatricassociates.com

Consumers should immediately take the clothing sets away from children. Bentex is offering a refund and instructions on how to return or dispose of the recalled clothing.

There is no safe blood lead level in children, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Exposure causes an array of health problems, including brain damage, lowered IQ, and other harm to brain and nervous system development. Even small amounts can cause behavior and learning problems, slow growth, impair hearing and the ability to pay attention, and weaken overall cognitive development.

Because of their developing bodies, babies and young children are especially vulnerable to the effects of lead exposure – they absorb four to five times as much ingested lead as adults, according to the World Health Organization. Today, babies and kids are exposed to lead mostly through paint in older, badly maintained residential units and contaminated drinking water.

“We’ve known for decades that even a tiny amount of lead exposure during childhood can affect neurodevelopment, including behavior changes, problems with cognitive development, and attention deficit difficulties,” said Naidenko.

“No infant or child should be exposed to the damaging effects of this dangerous heavy metal. The impact of elevated lead levels in a child's blood can include devastating lifelong consequences,” she added. j

ewg.org

Storyteller Mornings

January 18, 11:15am to 12:15pm

Listen, sing, and laugh with the storyteller during an art-filled storytime adventure in the galleries or gardens, then explore artmaking in the studios. Perfect for families with 2- to 6-year-olds. Members are free, and nonmembers are $5 per registering family (includes museum admission).

Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens / 904356-6857 / 829 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.cummermuseum.org

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

Organizing toys is a challenge, and frankly, most of the toy storage ideas on the Internet seem great for people who don’t have kids, a budget, or less than 10,000 square feet of open living space.

What it takes to have great toy storage is thought, purpose, and working deliberately. You can absolutely have organized and well-stored toys at your house without having a playroom, living in a mansion, donating all your toys, or spending tons of money on storage pieces.

Why does toy organization matter?

Remember: Toys are the tools for play in childhood. Toy organization is more than just keeping your home looking nice. Toy storage can make or break a child’s ability to find their play, and we want children playing independently. These ideas give some ideas around toy storage that are realistic, doable, and tried and true.

What to know before you start organizing toys

There are a few parts to toy ownership that need to be expressly stated.

1. Toys must be visible. Out of sight, out of kid mind. If kids can’t see a toy, the toy doesn’t exist. Kids can’t access their play if they can’t find their tools, so play isn’t as functional if tools are hidden.

2. Ditch the boxes. They take up space and hide toys.

3. Too many toys can be overwhelming. When a child goes to play, if they can’t make a decision on what to play with (because there are too many choices), that child is more likely to reject independent play. We don’t want this. We want children to be able to find their toys and select them quickly.

4. Toys must have a home. If a toy doesn’t have a designated home, do not expect it to ever be organized.

How to organize toys in a closet

• Puzzle Rack: These can store all the chunky puzzles in your house.

• Clear Bins: You can easily find clear bins that are shoe box sized and durable. There’s a reason teachers across America use them in classrooms. Put one type of toy in each container and avoid mixing. Go for maximum clarity on what goes where.

• Plastic Bins: These find a good middle

ground between “hidden mess” and “visible” toys. And they hold a ton. Put one type of toy in each bin. These are not “catch-alls” for junk.

How to organize dress-up clothes

• Accordion Coat Rack: Use a mounted accordion hat rack for hanging clothing and three simple bins below for hats and accessories.

• Coil Basket: For accessories, coil baskets keep everything visible and within arm’s reach. Fill them with hats, belts, gloves, jewelry, etc.

• Weapons Bin: Play fighting is a natural part of childhood, and having all your kids’ weapons in one place with a bin can be huge.

Toy storage ideas in a bedroom

• Utensil Tray for loose parts

• Cube Shelf Unit

• Wire Baskets

• Cubes for Small Toys

• Unbreakable Craft Jars (These plastic containers are perfect for toys that don’t fit right in a rectangular container or if you need a different shape for your space)

How are you supposed to organize LEGO bricks?

LEGO bricks are one of the most challenging toys for parents to organize. There are so many different (and successful) ways to store LEGO bricks.

• Clear Bin – all mixed together

• Clear Drawers – organized by color

• The Trofast LEGO System – fully sorted

• Hardware Drawers for LEGO pieces

The important of toy storage ideas cannot be overstated

As mentioned earlier, toys are the tools for childhood. Children use these tools for the most important work they do: play. If a child can’t access or find a tool for their play, it’s as frustrating as when you misplace something in the kitchen or can’t find equipment in the garage for your next project.

Help kids find their tools, think critically about your toy storage at home, and above all else, make it functional and accessible. j

busytoddler.com

EDUCATION

YouTube Kids Channels That Promote STEM

Things to Do Education Events

Bite-Size Science Virtual Program

Thru June 2

Earth to Luna (age 5–7)

The world is full of wonder and questions— and science lover Luna is determined to find the answers! Join Luna, her little brother Jupiter (named after the planet, of course), and their pet ferret Clyde on some seriously fun science adventures. From learning how water becomes rain to how banana plants grow without seeds, these videos inspire kids to explore how the world works.

how to 3D-print with recycled trash, harvest your own honey, or even make paper out of elephant poo, Maddie has you covered. This one-stop shop for STEM exploration provides kids with a hands-on deep dive into topics spanning subjects related to animals, plants, travel, and technology.

GoldieBlox (age 8–10)

N*Gen TV Africa (age 5–7)

N*Gen (pronounced “engine”) is all about learning. The channel’s theme-based videos are created by teachers across Africa who design mini lessons on a wide range of subjects, including the solar system, gravity, and humans’ digestive tracts. Plus, each video offers mindfulness training and a physical fitness/dance routine to get kids up and moving. Trivia and quizzes cap things off.

Science Max (age 5–10)

Ready to super-size your science? Join Phil as he turbocharges science into some really awesome, fun, and BIG experiments, from catapults and earthquakes to hydraulics, magnetic levitation, and so much more. Kids will learn the scientific principles behind the videos’ large-scale experiments and will likely be inspired to do some at-home experimenting of their own.

GoldieBlox empowers kids to build and dream, from how-to videos about coding to at-home science experiments. The Goldie Squad has adventures with toys, and there are plenty of inspiring videos featuring women working in STEM. The goal is to encourage young viewers to use their creativity and engineering skills to invent and do anything.

A 15-episode series of curriculum-related 10- to 15-minute videos covering life science topics such as cheetah adaptations, ocean food chains, wetlands, monarch butterflies, pollination, and much more. Each video features one of Lucas Miller, the Singing Zoologist's, songs and an entertaining science lesson. The series includes over three hours of content, curriculum connections including Florida Standards, animations, nature footage, quizzes, and a study guide with activities and additional resources. The series is geared for students in grades K-5 (ages 5 and 11). A viewing link will be emailed with instructions on how to access the virtual program. The link can be shared within your group to view with ease in a classroom, at home, or on a mobile device. FSCJ Artist Series / 904-632-5050 / www.fscjartistseries.org

MOSH Winter Discovery Camp

January 2-3, 8am to 4pm

K through 5th-grade students can explore all the wonders of the Museum and participate in handson STEAM activities and crafts when school is out for the holidays. Camps are designed to engage young learners and nurture the excitement of learning. Extended care is available. Campers will get a take-home STEAM Activity Kit at the end of the camp day or week. Cost is $136.80 for MOSH Members and $152 for Non-Members.

MinutePhysics (age 8–10)

Super Sema (age 5–7)

Follow Sema and her twin brother, MB, on their mission to protect their African town of Dunia. Sema loves to explore all things STEAM (that’s STEM with “art” thrown in for good measure) and knows the importance of determination, creativity, and problem-solving. This series encourages kids to feel empowered to change the world and be super creators and “technovators.”

SciShow Kids (age 5–10)

Ever wonder why birds sing, or why wet dogs stink? Welcome to the show that can’t get enough of the question “why?” Join regulars Jessi, Mr. Brown, and Squeaks in the fort, where the magic—or rather, science—happens. They conduct research, run experiments, and hear from experts about the topics that make us all ask “why” in our everyday science-filled lives.

Got a minute? That’s enough time to learn some fascinating physics! Through simple whiteboard animation, MinutePhysics videos answer a range of physics-related questions. From why December has the longest days to how bikes stay upright and even where galaxies come from, these videos will have you on your way to becoming an expert in 60 seconds.

Museum of Science and History / 904-396-6674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org

Kids STEMS Group 2023

January 4, 11, 18, 25, 6:30pm to 7:30pm

Riverside Ave Christian Church hosts a free STEMS class on Wednesdays beginning in January. STEMS stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, and Scripture. There will be hands-on learning through crafts, games, and experiments. The class is free for ages 6 to 10. Registration is required.

Riverside Ave Christian Church / 904-389-1751 / 2841 Riverside Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32205 / www.jaxdisciples.com

School Showcase Saturday

January 7, 9am to 2pm

NASA STEM (age 8–10)

Maddie Moate (age 5–10)

Maddie Moate invites curious kids along as she asks questions and goes in search of answers. Whether you’re wondering about

Crash Course Kids (age 8–10)

Short on time but big on science? These fast-paced, imaginative learning videos dive deep into the atmosphere and soar high into the solar system to teach science, from biology to astronomy and everything in between. Host Sabrina Cruz asks all the right questions and delivers fascinating answers as she explores and explains the incredible world of science.

Kids can take science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to new heights with NASA STEM. These videos invite kids to share in NASA’s mission to examine Earth, explore space, and improve aeronautics. Experimental DIY missions and tutorials, kid-driven Q&A sessions with NASA experts, and out-of-thisworld video lessons immerse viewers in NASA’s work to inspire the next generation of explorers. j

www.commonsensemedia.org

Duval County Public Schools hosts a School Showcase Saturday. The schools will be open to the public. Take a tour, talk with principals and staff, and apply to the school that is right for your child. There will be school tours at 9am, 10:30am, 12noon, and 1:30pm. Duval Public Schools / 904-390-2082 / dcps.duvalschools.org

Grand Shanghai Circus • January 12, 10am; January 13, 10am and 12noon

Grand Shanghai Circus: Amazing Acrobats of Shanghai is a top performance troupe famous for delivering top performers with excellent skills, daredevil acts, and a harmonious combination of various kinds of performing arts. Tickets are $8.50. Nathan H. Wilson Center for the Arts / 904-6325000 / 11901 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.fscjartistseries.org

36th Annual Hoggetowne Medieval Faire

January 27, 9am to 4pm

For three weekends, a medieval village comes alive during festival season for the 36th Annual Hoggetowne Medieval Faire. The Faire showcases more

than 160 talented artisans and craftspeople from all over the country who arrive at Hoggetowne to display and sell a variety of goods. At the marketplace, visitors will find one-of-a-kind blacksmithing, jewelry, stone and wood carvings, weaving, handblown glassware, leather crafts, and period fashions. Master crafters will also show how they create their works of art. There will be a variety of food options, including blooming onions, giant turkey legs, freshbaked pastries, sweet potato fries, ribs, and more. Entertainment will include gypsy dancers, magicians, armored knights battling on the jousting field, living chess matches, human-powered push rides, and camel and pony rides for the kids. Friday, January 27, is School Day at the Faire. Students and teachers get a firsthand look at history and enjoy a field trip with many events and activities. Special ticket prices are available for educational groups: $3 for students and $6 per teacher/chaperone. Bus drivers, children 4 and under, and individuals with disabilities must also be registered and will receive a free guest pass. All registered groups will receive a free 50-page Educational Guide that can be used to assist with classroom activities before and after the Faire. Hoggetowne Medieval Faire / 352-3938536 / 9409 SW Archer Rd, Gainesville, FL 32608 / www.hoggetownefaire.com

Let’s Go Science Show

January 20, 10am and 12noon

The Let’s Go Science Show is a wacky look at “how things work” with Professor Smart and Ms. Knowitall. This production teaches physics concepts through theatrically based experiments and demonstrations. There will be lots of audience interaction as well as impressive scenery, great lighting, and illusions. Tickets for the school-time show are $8.50 each. Nathan H. Wilson Center for the Arts / 904-632-5000 / 11901 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.fscjartistseries.org

MOSH Homeschool Programs

January 25, 9:30am to 12noon

Enjoy MOSH at your own pace during Homeschool Days. On these days, the Museum will be open exclusively to homeschool families and co-op groups. Enjoy MOSH’s traveling exhibits, hands-on lessons, and guided activities for an all-inclusive ticket cost. Program pricing is $25.50 per student and $16.50 per adult. This month features Planet Pioneers: Explore MOSH’s Spring traveling exhibition, Planet Pioneers, and discover what it takes to colonize alien worlds. Examine the science of interplanetary travel and the search for Earth-like exoplanets in the Bryan-Gooding Planetarium. MOSH / 904396-MOSH / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org

All About Homeschooling High School Seminar

January 28, 1pm to 4pm

Join home educators from HERI as they share important details on how to successfully guide your homeschool student through their home education experience. There will be several different workshops; come to one or come to all. Joanne Mastronicola, author of Piecing Together the High School Puzzle, will share about Homeschooling High School. Also, join Elicia DiPietro, a homeschool mom of 20 years, as she explains how your student can earn college credit while homeschooling high school. Cost is $10 for HERI Members; $15 for Non-Members.

Eastport Baptist Church / 904-783-8197 / 1322 Eastport Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32218 / herijax.com

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

EDUCATION

Blast Off to Another World at MOSH

Prepare for launch at the Museum of Science & History (MOSH) and boldly explore the newest exhibition, Planet Pioneers: To Mars and Beyond, opening January 22! Experience what it takes to be the next generation of space goers, learn about the challenges – and risks – of being an astronaut, and help settle new worlds for the future of humanity!

visit with the 2 p.m. Skies Over Jacksonville daily show, an Educator-led exploration of this region’s night sky. Explore the beauty of space above without the worry of light pollution, and dive deeper into the cosmos than the naked eye could ever allow. Visiting on a Saturday? Check out the 3 p.m. Tour of the Solar System daily show and learn all about the large bodies that we call our neighbors! Will one of these planets feature a human settlement in the future? Skies Over Jacksonville and Tour of the Solar System are the perfect companions to Planet Pioneers: To Mars and Beyond.

Little Learners offers big learning for children ages 3, 4, and 5 and caregivers. Programming is offered on Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. Programs are designed to build interest and skills in STEAM topics.

Homeschool class or as an after-school club. The weekly courses explore a range of curriculum-based experiences, including ocean conservation, biomedical innovations, animation, and coding. Cohorts are offered for Grades K – 2 and 3 – 5.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit themosh.org. The Museum of Science & History is open to the public Thursday through Monday. General admission for adults is $19.95 and $16.95 for seniors, military, students, and youth ages 3 to 12. Children under 3 are free.

Planet Pioneers: To Mars and Beyond was created by Scitech in Perth, Australia, and produced by Imagine Exhibitions. j

themosh.org

Planet Pioneers: To Mars and Beyond is an immersive and interactive STEM-based exhibition designed for children ages 5 to 12 and their families. From rocket launches to landing and building a habitat to a base, there are tons to see and do in this exciting new space adventure. Visitors will engage in seventeen different hands-on learning stations that explore themes such as adapting to new environments, the challenges that await humans on distant worlds, and how technology developed for space impact day-to-day lives on Earth. Will you be able to use a satellite to find water or grow potatoes in space? Meet the challenge and become a Planet Pioneer!

Celebrate the arrival of Planet Pioneers: To Mars and Beyond with MOSH and partner Hall of Heroes for the Spaced Out: To Mars! Mini-Con on January 28. This Mini-Con is a perfect night out for the family featuring cosplayers, a costume contest, panel discussions, and more!

Experience Planet Pioneers: To Mars and Beyond at MOSH from January 22 through April 23.

Looking for more adventures to worlds unknown? Check out MOSH’s other programming, including daily Bryan-Gooding Planetarium shows and curriculum-based early learning and youth education that focus on science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM).

MOSH is home to Northeast Florida’s very own Bryan-Gooding Planetarium! Round out your

Take STEAM education to the next level through the STEAM Life Academy @ MOSH (SLAM), the Museum’s brand-new program series for students. S.L.A.M. is offered as a

EDUCATION

The Best Picture Books to Look Forward to in 2023

The Green Piano: How Little Me Found Music

By Roberta Flack and Tonya Bolden, illustrated by Hayden Goodman

On sale: 1/10/2023

Very Good Hats By Emma Straub, illustrated by Blanca Gomez On sale: 1/10/2023

Sleepy Sheepy

By Lucy Ruth Cummins, illustrated by Pete Oswald On sale: 1/31/2023

Cinderella—with Dogs!

By Linda Bailey, illustrated by Freya Hartas On sale: 2/7/2023

A Take-Charge Girl Blazes a Trail to Congress

By Gretchen Woelfle, illustrated by Rebecca Gibbon On sale: 2/7/2023

The Knowing

By Ani DiFranco, illustrated by Julia Mathew

On sale: 3/7/2023

Four Steps for Selecting the School That’s Right for Your Child

Good Night, Sister

By Katherine Schwarzenegger Pratt, illustrated by Lucy Fleming On sale: 2/7/2023

Smart Sisters

By Amy Krouse Rosenthal, illustrated by Brigette Barrager

On sale: 12/27/2022

Little Daymond Learns to Earn By Daymond John, illustrated by Nicole Miles On sale: 3/21/2023

The Fantastic Bureau of Imagination

By Brad Montague, illustrated by Brad and Kristi Montague On sale: 3/21/2023

Repeat After Me By Jazmyn Simon and Dulé Hill, illustrated by Shamar Knight-Justice On sale: 5/2/2023

Uni the Unicorn: Tooth Fairy Helper

By Amy Krouse Rosenthal, illustrated by Brigette Barrager On sale: 1/3/2023 readbrightly.com

Step 1.

Consider Your Child and Your Family

Start your search for the best school by thinking about what you want a school to do for your child. Perhaps your child has special language or education needs. Keep these in mind. After all, you know your son or daughter better than anyone else does. Consider:

• Your child's needs

• Your child's learning style

• Location of school

Step 2. Gather Information About Schools

If you were looking to buy a car, vacuum cleaner, or refrigerator, you could talk to friends and family and find information on the Internet, in consumer magazines, or in other published resources. Similarly, when investigating schools, you may also have to make phone calls, collect written material from different schools, and look for reports in your local paper to get the information you need. You can check public school report cards and go to parent fairs and school open houses.

You can also find reliable school information online on sites such as www.greatschools.net. The hard work will be worth your while if you find a school that brings out the best in your child.

Along with the schools' curricula and philosophy, you will want to know about school policies and services. Parents may also wish to consider the after-school programs a school offers; for example, sports, clubs, tutoring, or academic enrichment. Some schools have after-school activities funded by the U.S. Department of Education's 21st Century Community Learning Centers program. These centers provide educational activities outside of the regular school hours — before and after school or during summer vacation — that complement what is taught in school. You may also want to ask if the school has supplemental educational services, including free tutoring, that are offered outside of the regular school hours under the No Child Left Behind Act. Consider:

• Curriculum

• Approach to learning

• Academic performance

• Behavior policy

• Safety

• Special offerings

• Facilities and services

• Admissions procedures for public schools of choice and private schools

• Additional questions about private schools

• Additional questions about home schools

Step 3. Visit & Observe Schools

Contact the schools you are interested in and make an appointment for a visit. If possible, tour the schools during regular school hours and visit a few classes. Avoid visiting schools during the first or last week of a semester to get a realistic sense of how the school operates.

A good way to have your questions answered is to schedule an appointment with the school principal. If possible, attend an open house, parent-teacher meeting, or other school function that would also provide valuable information about the attitudes of staff, students, and parents.

Listen closely to what teachers say about the school. The teachers will be the adults closest to your child, and you will want to know if they are well-prepared, dedicated, and happy in their work. Consider a school’s:

• Culture

• Principal

• Teachers

• Students

• Parent and community involvement

• Reputation

Step

4. Apply to the School(s) You Choose

Once you select the school(s) that you think will be best for your child, you will go through a process of applying to a school (or schools) of your choice and enrolling your child. Consider applying to more than one school in case your child is not admitted to their first choice.

You will want to begin this process as early as possible in order to ensure you meet all the deadlines.

Admissions processes can vary. Your child may need to be tested or interviewed, and you may need to provide a school transcript, recommendations, or other information.

It would be helpful to learn about admissions criteria for the schools. You will want to double-check to be sure you have accurate information on when and how to apply. Be sure to:

• Select one or more schools to apply to

• Submit paperwork and applications before the deadlines

• Follow up j

www2.ed.gov

Five things to know for a successful School Showcase Saturday

School Showcase Saturday is right around the corner. Below are five things to help families prepare for both School Showcase Saturday (Jan. 7) and the opening of applications (Jan.1).

1. Enrollment hotline will be available –Have questions about enrollment? Enrollment specialists are here to help. The enrollment hotline will be open Jan. 3 – Jan. 27, from 7:30am to 4:30pm, Monday through Friday. There will be special hours on Saturday, Jan. 7, from 9am to 2pm. The number is 904-3487777.

2. JTA ridership free for families – Thanks to JTA’s partnership with the district, families participating in School Showcase Saturday can ride JTA buses to schools free on Jan. 7. Each passenger will need to present a special boarding pass when they board the bus. The pass, which can be printed or downloaded on the phone, is available on the School Showcase Saturday webpage.

3. Know the tour schedule – Tours will be available at all participating district schools at the following times: 9am, 10:30am, 12pm, and 1:30pm. There is no need to pre-register.

4. Be prepared to ask these questions –Right now, there may be a dozen schools that you feel could be great for your child, but as you learn more, you will begin to narrow your list. For example, is there after-school care provided? As you take your tour and talk with school leaders, make sure you ask about the following:

● Enrollment requirements

● Before/after school care

● Transportation options

● Electives and special programs

● Clubs and sports

● Uniform requirements

5. Research schools using “School Showcase 2023” – Before the event, families are encouraged to go on a “fact-finding” mission about the schools that interest them. A good tool for doing this is the “School Showcase 2023” portal where school info is gathered all in one place. Just visit the site and select “Exhibitor’s List” to view all participating schools. Families can even create a “My Show Planner” account to help them navigate the site, much like a shopping cart.

For more information, visit www.duvalschools. org/schoolshowcase.

Save the date for ‘School Showcase Saturday’ in January

Applications for VPK, magnet, and special transfer option schools open Jan. 1, ushering in the annual season where parents can identify and apply for the right educational option for their child for the upcoming school year.

To assist families, Duval County Public Schools is hosting a special “School Showcase Saturday” event on Jan. 7, 2023. All district schools will be open that day from 9am to 2pm for families to stop by and take a tour, talk with school leaders and educators, and learn more about the school.

There are plenty of steps parents can take to get ready. See below.

● Understand the process – Watch the “School Choice Countdown to the Lottery” video to learn more about the process for applying to magnet schools, special transfer option schools, and VPK programs. Families with questions can also email school_choice@duvalschools.org or make an appointment to speak with a school choice specialist.

● Start researching now – Visit www. duvalschools.org/schoolshowcase to start preparing for School Showcase Saturday as well as exploring different schools and educational options for your child. You can search based on a specific program or theme such as dual

language, visual arts, or career and technical education.

● Know the application window – The application window opens Jan. 1 and closes Feb. 28.

● Remember that applications are online – When applications open on Jan. 1, they will be located online in Focus. Parents will log into Focus and look under forms where they will see an application for magnet schools, special transfer option schools, and VPK.

● Make sure you have a linked Parent Account – This is essential because the VPK, magnet, and special transfer option applications are only available if the parent/guardian has a parent account that is linked to their student. Visit www.duvalschools.org/parentaccount for a step-by-step guide to creating a parent account and linking it to the student.

Note – Applying for a VPK, magnet, or special transfer option school is not a mandatory process. This primarily provides an opportunity for families who want to explore schools and educational options that are outside the school that their child is zoned for based on their child’s residence.

Finalists for the 2023 VyStar Duval County Teacher of the Year announced

Congratulations to five outstanding educators who have been selected as the five finalists for the VyStar Duval County Teacher of the Year for 2023.

“The 2023 group of finalists represents the depth of excellence among all Team Duval educators,” said Duval schools Superintendent Dr. Diana Greene. “It is interesting that we have veteran educators and teachers who are early in their professional journey. They represent different content areas and grade levels, but they all have one thing great educators have in common: They all love and care for children in such a way that they are willing to take every step necessary to meet every child’s learning needs.”

The five finalists are:

Katrina Bias (Deutsche Bank finalist) School: Garden City Elementary School Grade: 3rd-5th

Subject: Varying Exceptionalities teacher Teaching Experience: 15 years teaching Quote: “I feel we can help students to develop to their maximum potential by facilitating a nurturing learning environment that will instill in the students [the desire]

to become lifelong learners. It is never too late; the present is a wonderful place for children to be introduced to new opportunities and develop the ‘I can’ attitude. Exuding positivity towards your students is a must. There will be so much more buy in if they feel that you will have their back no matter how many tries it may take them to excel at a particular standard, skill, or lesson.”

Dr. Argel Hipol (Wells Fargo finalist) School: Westside High School Subject: Biology Teaching Experience: 12 years Quote: “I rise above challenges. Changing the narrative of this school is challenging, but I am inspired because I know I can make a bigger impact and difference here. I always believe that my role in this school is to be an instrument of hope, care, and love to my dear students and fellow teachers.”

Andrew Lodge (Florida Blue finalist) School: San Mateo Elementary School Subject: Music Teacher Teaching Experience: 3 years teaching Quote: “The biggest thing that inspires me as an educator is the students. I am an educator that will go beyond for his students.

They have a place in my heart that only they can fill. No matter how much certain students try to get under my skin, they get everything I have. I just want to make sure they have a reason.”

Julia Mayeshiba (VyStar Credit Union finalist) School: Andrew Jackson High School Subject: Math and Physics Teaching Experience: 4 years teaching Quote from colleague: “Julia folds her care and compassion into all her actions. The atmosphere in her room makes it abundantly clear that she believes all her students are worthy of love, praise, and is a teacher that sees the best in them regardless of their race, gender, history, test scores, or any other trait that our students possess. She is truly the best of us, and I am honored to call myself one of her peers.”

Ashley Watkins (Rotary finalist) School: J. Allen Axson Montessori Grade: 1st-3rd Subject: Inclusion teacher Teaching Experience: 9 years teaching Quote: “I believe in teaching the whole child. Creating a love of learning that is

intrinsic is the greatest contribution that I can give my students and it is what inspires me as a teacher. One of my greatest joys is watching my children grow academically, socially, and emotionally throughout their three years in my classroom. In our classroom, students play a vital role in their education process.”

One of the five will be announced as the Teacher of the Year at the EDDY Awards on Feb. 10, 2023, at the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront. The Teacher of the Year program is coordinated by JPEF with VyStar Credit Union serving as its title sponsor.

“We congratulate these teachers on being finalists for the VyStar Duval County Teacher of the Year,” said JPEF President Rachael Tutwiler Fortune. “It’s quite an achievement to be selected among the top five out of nearly 180 Teachers of the Year. We know the most important in-school factor to student success is teachers, which is why we want to support, elevate and celebrate the great work these teachers are doing.”

For more information visit jaxpef.org or contact Amy Henderson at amy@jaxpef.org.

Calling all walkers, runners and fitness enthusiasts, the 10th Annual CHARACTER COUNTS! 6K/3K Run/Walk will be held on Saturday, February 4, 2023, at 9 a.m. The run/walk will begin and end at Palencia Elementary School located at 355 Palencia Village Drive, St. Augustine.

Walkers and runners will enjoy a course running through the neighborhoods of Kensington and Las Calinas and can choose to participate in the 6K (3.73 miles) or 3K (1.86 miles) distance.

Registration fees are as follows:

6K: $35 January 1-January 31; $40 on race day

3K: $30 January 1-January 31; $35 on race day

Registration forms and more information are available online at RunSignUp.com.

Race proceeds support CHARACTER COUNTS! initiatives throughout the St. Johns County School District (SJCSD). The run/walk is open to all ages, and the top three winners will be awarded in each of the age categories as well as the overall male and female finishers. A cash donation will be awarded to the top three schools with the most registrants. All race reg-

istrants will receive a t-shirt and other goodies from area businesses and organizations. At the finish line, each race participant will receive a commemorative item.

This event is produced by the CHARACTER COUNTS! Steering Committee and is presented by Beaver Toyota with support from businesses and community groups. Action News Jax CBS47/FOX30 is the official media sponsor of this run/walk.

The SJCSD, along with area businesses, youth organizations and civic groups, selected the national character education program of CHARACTER COUNTS! as a countywide initiative to instill positive character traits in young people throughout the county. Additionally, the SJCSD became the first school district in Florida to implement Pursuing Victory With Honor in all of its athletic programs. Character education is an important part of every School Improvement Plan and a major component of the Student Code of Conduct and the school district’s Strategic Plan.

Visit RunSignUp.com to learn more and register.

Three winners were recently awarded $1,000 prizes in the Len Mattiace Foundation “Stop the Bullying” Contest. The winning entries were made by the WEB Leaders at Fruit Cove Middle School, the Dance Team at Mill Creek Academy, and Sydney Dickerson from Valley Ridge Academy.

The Len Mattiace Foundation “Stop the Bullying” contest was open to all middle school

students enrolled in a St. Johns County School District School. Students participated in one project for entry, either solo or as a team. Three $1,000 dollar prizes were awarded to a student or team with a winning entry. To enter, students created an original project demonstrating kindness, compassion, and / or inclusion. Submissions could include a written essay, original artwork, video, song, or service project.

Congratulations to the five SJCSD Teacher of the Year Finalists!

Gomati Sutaria of Liberty Pines Academy (pictured, second from left); Amanda Devany of Osceola Elementary; Tracy Clauson of Sebastian Middle School; Brianne Seplocha of Picolata Crossing Elementary; and Theresa McCormick of Valley Ridge Academy, were each surprised by the “Prize Patrol” with their announcement.

The district’s Teacher of the Year will be announced at the annual banquet, sponsored by Investing in Kids! (INK!) in early February. The SJCSD Teacher of the Year will then be sub-

mitted to the Florida Department of Education for consideration for Florida’s Teacher of the Year. Congratulations again to all of this year’s finalists!

•

• Be tolerant and accepting of differences

• Use good manners, not bad language • Be considerate of the feelings of others

• Don’t threaten, hit, or hurt anyone • Deal peacefully with anger, insults, and disagreements

Awards January 26

The Clay Education Foundation invites you to the 2023 Apple Awards – a celebration of excellence in teaching, teachers, and school-related employees of the year from Clay County‘s 44 public schools. The winners of the Clay County District Teacher of the Year and the Clay County District School-Related Employee of the Year will be named during the Apple Awards, hosted by the Clay Education Foundation, on Thursday, January 26, 2023, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the Thrasher-Horne Center, 283 College Dr, Orange Park, FL 32065, USA.

More than 900 people – parents, fellow

ESE Advisory Council Upcoming Meeting

The next ESE Advisory Council meeting will be held on January 31st at McRae Elementary at 6 p.m. RSVP online!

Clay County School News January

teachers, community leaders, and other education advocates – attend, which culminates with the naming of Clay County Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year.

Although free, registration is required. No ticket necessary. If registered, volunteers will have your name on a list. Register at givebutter.com/appleawards.

www.myoneclay.net

OP/Middleburg (904) 272-8100

Green Cove Springs (904) 284-6500 Keystone Heights (888) 663-2529 TDD (904) 284-6584

January

January

January

January

TEENS

How to Talk About Mental Health Issues

When teens are struggling, speaking up can be hard, but reaching out is the first step to feeling better. Talking about your mental health issues may not be easy, but it’s a vital part of getting the help you need. ADHD expert and former senior editor at the Child Mind Institute Rae Jacobson asked Jamie Howard, PhD, a clinical psychologist at the Child Mind Institute, for advice on how to start and navigate the conversation.

Stigma and silence

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), one in five young adults is dealing with mental illness, but as many as half are struggling in silence. The thought of sharing what you’re going through can feel scary, but the benefits far outweigh the cost.

Getting started

There’s no right way to talk about mental health issues, but having a plan can help make the process less overwhelming. Here are some things to help make the conversation more productive:

• Write down what you’re feeling. This can help you get a better picture of how you’re feeling and help you organize your thoughts.

• Find a symptom checker online. Using an online symptom checker, like the one on childmind.org, can help you make sense of how you’re feeling and give you a place to start.

• Give a heads-up. Once you choose someone to talk to, let them know that you’d like to have a serious conversation and ask them to set some time aside.

Who to talk to

“There’s no ‘right’ first person to talk to,” says Dr. Howard. “What’s important is finding someone you feel comfortable opening up with, and who you know will listen.”

• Choose your confidants. Starting with people you can rely on to be supportive early on will help you practice and gain confidence.

• Go beyond friends. Talking to friends, in person or online, is a good way to get started but there’s a limit to how much friends can help.

• Find an adult you trust. “If you can talk to a parent, that’s great,” says Dr. Howard, “but a lot of kids are reluctant to do that for various reasons.”

Having the conversation

Once you’re ready to talk, here are some things to keep in mind:

• Go at your own pace. It’s okay to take it slow if you don’t want to share everything right away.

• Don’t downplay. Everyone feels “sad” or “anxious” sometimes, says Dr. Howard, so it’s important to communicate that what you’re feeling is more serious and affecting your day-to-day life.

• Don’t worry about messing up. Remember that the plan doesn’t have to be perfect.

What if people don’t respond well?

Most people will respond better than you think, but if someone doesn’t react the way you’re hoping they will, don’t be sidelined. Move on to someone else. If someone doesn’t seem to understand, it also doesn’t mean that they’ll never understand. Sometimes people just need a little time.

Building your team

A support system means having people you can rely on in different ways. A friend might be a good, accepting listener. A parent might be a good backup for tough decisions. A mental health professional is key to getting treatment, but “it’s good to have multiple people you can confide in,” says Dr. Howard.

Setting boundaries

Once you start talking about your mental health, it’s important to set some boundaries for yourself. “You don’t want your mental health to define you,” says Dr. Howard, “so it’s important to decide who you want to talk to about it and how much.”

Safety first

Talking about mental illness is a process, but sometimes there are situations when you need to find help right away. If you are in crisis, don’t wait: Reach out to a parent, counselor, or teacher immediately.

You can also reach the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-2738255, or go to your local emergency room. j childmind.org

Things to Do Teen Events

Harry Potter Yule Ball

January 5, 6pm

Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, together with the Ministry of Magic and the Clay County Public Library request the pleasure of your company at the Yule Ball. Your best fancy robes or muggle attire are highly encouraged, but not required to attend. Dancing, photo opportunities, and other activities will be available for all ages. Orange Park Library / 904-278-3614 / 2054 Plainfield Ave., Orange Park, FL 32073 / claycountygov.com

Teen Underground

January 9, 2:30pm to 3:30pm

Teens 12 to 18 are invited to come hang out at the library. There will be anime, games, arts and crafts, and more. Free. Clay County Public Library, Fleming Island Branch / 904-278-3720 / 1895 Town Center Blvd, Fleming Island, FL 32003 / www.claycountygov.com

Big and Teen Chef: Handhelds

January 10, 6pm

Big Chef-Teen Chef series classes are designed specifically for a guardian/parent, older sibling (18 or older), etc. paired with a young chef. Each pair will work together (along with the rest of the students) to create delicious recipes that are appropriate for adults and teens alike. Big Chef must be 18 or older. Teen Chef age range is 13 to 17 years old. Forget the knife and fork. Handheld food is trending these days. Learn how to make some handheld food that will keep you out of the drive-thru. Cost is $85. Price is for a parent/teen combo; add one seat to cart. Publix Aprons Cooking School / 904262-4187 / 10500 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www.publix.com

Chocolate Making for Teens

January 17, 5:30pm

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. Learn the basics of crafting chocolate treats you’ll be proud to share. Supplies (and snacks) will be provided. RSVP is required. This program is for 6th to 12th grades only. St. Johns County Public Library, Ponte Vedra Beach Branch / 904-827-6950 / 101 Library Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / sjcpls.org

Preparing for College Athletics: Eligibility & Exposure • January 18, 6:30pm

This course will share how students and families can positively promote themselves on social media and communicate with prospective coaches. The benefits of camp attendance and the importance of academics will also be discussed. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a free family resource that promotes parental involvement, enhances student achievement, and supports a caregiver's need for personal and individual growth. Parent Academy courses are offered virtually through Microsoft Teams. Duval Parent Academy / 904-390-2960 / dcps.duvalschools.org

Drop In! 3D Paper Snowflakes

January 19, 4:30pm – 5:30pm

Stay warm inside and use your artistic talents to make a fun 3D paper snowflake craft! This activity is only for teens and adults. Supply is provided.

Duval County Public Library, Bradham and Brooks Branch / 904-255-2665 / 1755 Edgewood Ave. W, Jacksonville, FL 32208 / jaxpubliclibrary.org

Getting From Where You Are to Where You Want to Be • January 26, 6pm and 9pm

In this engaging and motivational keynote program for students and parents, learn from college admissions expert Peter Van Buskirk as he shares a five-point plan for achieving educational goals. Special emphasis is placed on self-awareness, finding a good college fit, and the consequences of decision-making throughout high school. The free webinar will be held in two sessions, one at 6pm and one at 9pm. Revolution Prep / 877-738-7737 / www.revolutionprep.com

Teen Advisory Board (TAB) – Online

January 28, 12noon to 1pm

Teens, imagine if the library were made just for you and your friends. What types of programs and events would you have? Join the Teen Advisory Board to tell the library what you and your friends like to do, and see the changes start to happen. For ages 12 to 17. Free and held online.

Jacksonville Public Library / 904-255-2665 / jaxpubliclibrary.org

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

PETS

Paint Your Own Pet

Things to Do Pet Events Cleaning and Disinfecting Pet Supplies

Even if they look clean and healthy, pets, like people, naturally carry bacteria and other tiny living things in their guts or other parts of their bodies. Most of the bacteria don’t cause illness, some are actually helpful, but others can be harmful to pets or people.

Pet food and treats can sometimes be contaminated with germs, too. These germs can easily spread to your pet items, like bowls, toys, or crates, and make your pets or your family sick. The good news is you can help keep everyone healthy by cleaning and disinfecting pet items regularly.

Cleaning and disinfecting

Cleaning physically removes dirt and germs from surfaces using soap or detergent while disinfecting kills germs on surfaces using chemicals. Cleaning is usually good enough for most pet items while disinfecting is an additional step you can take in some situations.

One easy way to remember how often to clean and disinfect your pet items is to do so as often as your own items. For items that can’t be cleaned, like non-refillable catnip toys, throw them away when they look dirty.

Example of a cleaning schedule:

• Pet bowls: Clean after every use for wet food and every day for dry food and water.

• Pet beds, blankets, and habitats: Clean every week.

• Pet toys: Clean every month.

When to disinfect:

• Pet items that touch poop or pee (such as your cat’s litter box): Disinfect as often as you would disinfect your toilet or bathroom.

• If your pet or anyone in your household is more likely to get very sick from germs: Clean and disinfect pet items more often.

• If your pet is sick: Disinfect when you clean their items. Clean and disinfect their items more often while they are sick.

• If you have pet rodents or pet reptiles or amphibians (these pets are more likely than other pets to carry germs that can make people sick): Disinfect items every month.

You can clean more often if needed, especially

if the pet item looks dirty or smells bad.

How to clean and disinfect pet items

Most pet items have cleaning instructions on the packaging or tags that you can follow. For pet items without cleaning instructions, use these methods:

• Hard items, such as crates, bowls, rubber toys, and plastic toys:

à Clean using soapy water.

à Disinfect using bleach or using disinfectant wipes or spray. (Visit cdc.gov for step-by-step instructions for using a bleach solution.)

à For dishwasher-safe bowls or toys, you can clean and disinfect using a dishwasher.

• Soft items, such as blankets, beds, clothes, plush toys, and rope toys:

à Clean and disinfect using a washing machine and dryer.

Some websites may recommend vinegar as a pet-safe way to clean or disinfect items. However, there is currently not enough research showing how well vinegar removes dirt (cleans) or kills germs (disinfects).

Tips to clean and disinfect safely

Always read and follow instructions on the disinfectant label. Following instructions exactly will ensure that you kill germs and stay safe around the disinfectants.

Keep pets away from the area where you are cleaning and disinfecting. Do not let them lick, touch, or be close to the disinfectants, and store disinfectants out of the reach of pets. If you have pet birds, disinfect outdoors or in a separate room. If you have a cat, do not use disinfectants with “phenol” in the ingredient list; phenols are very toxic to cats.

Find a suitable place for cleaning and disinfecting pet items by hand. For dog and cat bowls and toys that you are washing by hand, you can wash them in the kitchen sink. For all other pet items, use a wash tub and sponge or scrub just used for your pet. You can also use the laundry sink or bathtub, but make sure to thoroughly clean and disinfect the sink or tub immediately after. j

cdc.gov

Admission starts at $10; kids 12 and under are free. VIP admission begins at 9am, and general admission is at 10am.

January 8, 1pm to 4pm

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

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

ShotVet Pet Clinics

January 8, 14-15, 22, 28-29

Low-cost pet vaccinations given by licensed veterinarians. No appointments are necessary.

January 14, 28, 8am to 9am – Ace Hardware

January 15, 29, 12noon to 1pm – Bruster’s Ice Cream

January 14, 28, 10am to 11am – Tires Plus January 15, 29, 2pm to 3pm – Starbucks

January 15, 29, 4pm to 5pm – PDQ Restaurant

January 15, 29, 10am to 11am – Cure Pharmacy

January 15, 29, 8am to 9am – O’Reilly Auto Parts

January 14, 28, 12noon to 1pm – Lowe’s January 8, 22, 3:30pm to 4:30pm – Chili's ShotVet Pet Clinics / 407-792-0384 / www.shotvet.com

Ace Hardware / 2771 Monument Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32225

Bruster's Ice Cream / 12224 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225

Tires Plus / 13162 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225

Starbucks / 13315 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225

PDQ Restaurant / 3260 Hodges Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32224

Cure Pharmacy at Publix / 7001 Merrill Rd #13, Jacksonville, FL 32277

O'Reilly Auto Parts / 4124 Emerson Street, Jacksonville, FL 32207

Lowe's / 8080 Philips Hwy, Jacksonville, FL 32256

Chili's / 13891 Old St Augustine Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32258

Jacksonville Reptile Expo

January 14, 10am to 3:30pm

Show Me Snakes presents the Jacksonville Reptile Expo. There will be items for sale as well as learning opportunities for all ages.

St. John Event Center / 636-358-1281 / 12760 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / showmesnakes.com

Antiques Ruffshow

January 15, 2pm to 5pm

Join staff along with Certified Appraiser Selma Paul from HGTV and President of the Midsouth Chapter of ISA as she takes a look at your antiques and tells if they are trash or treasure. You can bring almost anything - art, jewelry, porcelain, rugs, furniture and collectibles. Please keep any weapons or sports memorabilia at home though. A $20 donation gets you one item evaluated. Cost is $15 for each additional item, maximum 3 items. All proceeds will benefit the Flagler Humane Society.

Elite Dance and Travel / 386-445-1814 / 515 Palm Coast Parkway SW, Palm Coast, FL 32137 / flaglerhumanesociety.org

The Great BrewHound Chili Cook-Off

January 15, 12noon to 4pm

BrewHound Dog Park hosts the Great BrewHound Chili Cook-Off to benefit Fur Sisters. Tickets will be sold for small cups for tastings of the chilis, and votes will be cast. Prizes will be awarded in several categories. Tickets to be purchased the day of are a $10 donation to Fur Sisters – Furever Urs Rescue, Inc. Cash and card are both accepted.

BrewHound Dog Park + Bar / 904-372-7266 / 1848 Kings Circle South, Neptune Beach, FL 32266 / www.brew-hound.com

Business Advocates for the Jacksonville Humane Society

January 20, 8am to 10am

Attendees can connect, explore new business and alliance op-purr-tunites, learn more about the benefits of a partnership with the Jacksonville Humane Society, and hear about best practices from marketing professional Erin Gordon, Partner at Fisher Agency. A vast network of informed, interconnected contacts means broader access to new and valuable information, with the cherry on top of being able to give back to pets and the people who love them in the community. Tickets are $30.

Aloft Jacksonville Tapestry Park / 904-7258766 / 4812 West Deer Lake Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / jaxhumane.org

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

THINGS TO DO

Beyond Van Gogh Thru February 26

Beyond Van Gogh is a new truly immersive experience. While other shows use virtual reality or still images, this show incorporates both still and moving art. Masterpieces, now freed from frames, come alive, appear and disappear, and flow across multi-surfaces. The show is projected on every surface around you, which makes you feel as though you have stepped directly into a Van Gogh painting. The visual artwork is accompanied by a beautiful score. Tickets start at $23.99 for children and $39.99 for adults. Children 4 years and younger enter the show for free and do not require a ticket when accompanying an adult with a ticket.

Immersive Art Space / 800-441-0819 / 119 West Beaver Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / vangoghjacksonville.com

St. Augustine Nights of Lights Thru January 31

The Annual Nights of Lights lights up St. Augustine with over three million lights. Nights of Lights is the winter holiday celebration in St. Augustine where each historic downtown business and many residents participate by lighting up their buildings. Nights of Lights holds the distinct honor as one of the 10 Best Holiday Displays in The World by National Geographic. The main plaza, called the Plaza de la Constitución, features lights draped around every tree. There's also a Christmas tree in the center where photos can be taken. The view of the Bayfront from the Bridge of Lions during Nights of Lights is also a favorite photo opportunity. Continues through January 31. Plaza de la Constitución / King Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.oldcity.com

Ripley's Red Train Nights of Lights

Thru January 30, Nightly at 6pm

Ripley’s Red Trains offers special Nights of Lights Tours through January 30. With your health and safety in mind, reservations for Santa’s Red Express will be made by row — not by person. Each row (68 inches) can accommodate up to four guests. Multiple rows may be reserved to meet your group’s needs. A reservation time is required. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled tour time. Tours begin and end at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Free parking is available for guests during their tour on a first come, first served basis. The parking lot fills up quickly on busy nights, so please plan accordingly. Free gift for children ages 12 and under through Christmas. Cost is $65.99 per row. Closed Christmas Day. Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum / 904-824-

1606 / 19 San Marco Avenue, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.ripleys.com

Voyage to the Deep at MOSH Thru January 13, 2023

Based on French author Jules Verne’s 1870 classic 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, the exhibition brings to life the deep-sea adventures of Captain Nemo, his fantastical Nautilus submarine, and the mythical world he inhabited. The exhibition is designed to provide a range of interactive experiences including full-body interactions, mechanical and electro-mechanical exhibits, interactive projections, and touchscreens.

Museum of Science and History / 904-3966674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org

Annual Holiday Trains Display at MOSH Thru January 2

The Toy Train Collectors of Jacksonville will host a limited-run motorized train display on the Museum’s 3rd Floor. Collector volunteer operators will be on site to engage visitors, teaching them about trains, engineering, and model building. The trains on display will run throughout the day as they travel through a mini winter wonderland. Holiday Trains are included with General Admissions.

Museum of Science and History / 904-3966674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org

Ice! at Gaylord Palms

Thru January 1

During Christmas at Gaylord Palms, families can enjoy holiday displays that include more than 2 million twinkling Christmas lights. Explore acres of twinkling lights and decorations and holiday activities, shows, and events, featuring Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Activities include snow tubing, gingerbread house decorating, Cirque Spirit of Christmas, Shine Light Show, photos with Santa, Christmas Tree Trail, Snow Factory, Elf Training Academy, Naughty or Nice Escape Room, and more. Events are priced individually, or combo tickets are available.

Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center / 407-586-0000 / 6000 West Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee, FL 34746 / www.ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.com

The Venardos Circus

Thru January 1

Venardos Circus, a Broadway-style animal-free circus, is back on the road and returns to the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. There will be multiple shows in the intimate red-and-white

striped tent. Parking is free. Festive preshow entertainment begins an hour prior to showtime. Tent concessions will be available when doors open. Classic circus treats like fresh popcorn, cotton candy, house-made all-natural pink lemonade, nachos, hot dogs, packaged candy, and more are available. General Admission tickets start at $16.50 for youth under age 12 and $27 for adults. One child 12 months or younger free per paying adult if seated on a lap. Premium Reserved seating is available for premium pricing.

The St. Augustine Amphitheatre / 904-2090367 / 1340C A1A South, St. Augustine, FL 32080 / www.staugamphitheatre.com

Captain Nemo’s Steampunk Cotillion MiniCon • January 7, 6:30pm to 11pm

Release your inner Aquanaut as you venture through a world beneath the waves in MOSH's traveling exhibit, Voyage to the Deep. Join Hall of Heroes and MOSH for a deep dive 20,000 leagues under the sea as you chart a mythical world of deep-sea curiosities at Captain Nemo’s Steampunk Cotillion. The event will feature vendors and artists, cosplayers and a costume contest, panels and interactive performers, appetizers and refreshments, and more. Tickets are $12 for kids 3 to 12 and $25 for adults, with discounts if tickets are purchased in advance.

MOSH / 904-396-6674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / themosh.org

Tchaikovsky’s Sleeping Beauty January 8, 3pm

The State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine presents the classic story of Sleeping Beauty. The story features Tchaikovsky's delightful music performed by the Dnipro Philharmonic Orchestra. Tickets range from $18.20 to $90.

Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts / 904-632-5000 / 300 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.fscjartistseries.org

Disney’s Aladdin

January 10, 7:30pm; January 11, 7:30pm; January 12, 7:30pm; January 13, 8pm; January 14, 2pm, 8pm; January 15, 1pm, 6:30pm

Disney’s Aladdin, the hit Broadway musical, will be performed from January 10-15 at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts. The show features all your favorite songs from the film as well as new music written by Tony® and Academy Award® winner Alan Menken. Disney on Broadway performances are recommended for a general audience. As an advisory to adults who might bring young people, Disney recommends its productions

for ages 6 and up. All guests entering the theater, regardless of age, must have a ticket. Tickets start at $40.50.

Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts / 904-632-5000 / 300 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.fscjartistseries.org

Annual Saint Augustine Film Festival

January 12-15

The annual Saint Augustine Film Festival will take place from January 12-15 in downtown St. Augustine venues. More than 50 independent films will be on view during the event. Screenings take place in Lewis Auditorium and the Gamache-Koger Theatre at Flagler College and the Alcazar Room at St. Augustine City Hall. Often, the filmmakers show up and introduce their films or talk about their work. Tickets are $75 to $250 for All Access and All Film Passes. Individual film passes are $10. St. Augustine Film Festival / 904-461-3993 / www.staugfilmfest.com

Grand Shanghai Circus

January 14, 2pm

Grand Shanghai Circus: Amazing Acrobats of Shanghai is a top performance troupe famous for delivering top performers with excellent skills, daredevil acts, and a harmonious combination of various kinds of performing arts. Tickets range from $18.75 to $43.50.

Nathan H. Wilson Center for the Arts / 904632-5000 / 11901 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.fscjartistseries.org

36th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast • January 13, 7am

The City of Jacksonville invites the community to celebrate the life, legacy, and service of Martin Luther King, Jr. at the 36th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast. The breakfast will be held from 7am to 8am. Guests are encouraged to network and explore community involvement opportunities during this time. The program will begin at 8am and will feature a guest keynote speaker alongside Mayor Lenny Curry. Tickets start at $40.

Prime Osborn III Convention Center / 1000 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / specialevents.coj.net

36th Annual Hoggetowne Medieval Faire

January 14-15, 10am to 5pm; January 2122, 10am to 5pm; January 27, 9am to 4pm – School Day; January 28-29, 10am to 5pm

For three weekends, a medieval village comes alive during festival season for the 36th Annual Hoggetowne Medieval Faire. The Faire showcases more than 160 talented artisans and craftspeople from all over the country

THINGS TO DO

who arrive at Hoggetowne to display and sell a variety of goods. At the marketplace, visitors will find one-of-a-kind blacksmithing, jewelry, stone and wood carvings, weaving, handblown glassware, leather crafts, and period fashions. Master crafters will also show how they create their works of art. There will be a variety of food options, including blooming onions, giant turkey legs, fresh-baked pastries, sweet potato fries, ribs, and more. Entertainment will include gypsy dancers, magicians, armored knights battling on the jousting field, living chess matches, human-powered push rides, and camel and pony rides for the kids. Admission is $20 for adults, $17 for seniors and military with valid ID, $10 for kids ages 5 to 17, and free for children 4 and under.

Hoggetowne Medieval Faire / 352-393-8536 / 9409 SW Archer Rd, Gainesville, FL 32608 / www.hoggetownefaire.com

GameFace 4:13 Training Academy – Basketball Youth Leagues

January 14 thru February 25, 12noon, 1pm, 2pm

Students in grades 1 through 5 are invited to participate in a positive environment where they can work on basketball skills. GameFace Sports Youth Basketball League is designed to nurture new and intermediate players, as well as push advanced players through practice and weekly games with experienced, designated coaches. Youth basketball leagues are seven weeks, each Saturday, with a oncea-week practice and an end-of-the-season championship game. All players will receive a league t-shirt. Cost is $159 per player with a $20 sibling and friend discount.

Ages and Divisions: 12noon to 1pm – 1st and 2nd Grade Division; 1pm to 2pm – 3rd and 4th Grade Division; 2pm to 3pm – 4th and 5th Grade Division.

River City Church / 904-878-9911 / 6801 Merrill Road, Jacksonville, FL 32277 / www.gameface413.org

Winter Jam 2023 • January 15, 6pm

The Winter Jam Tour Spectacular, Christian music’s largest annual tour, will feature a diverse lineup of artists. This family-friendly event is open to all ages. Winter Jam’s Prejam party will be led by Thrive Worship, Sean Be, and RENEE. Pastor and author Zane Black will be the speaker. No tickets are needed, and admission is $15 at the door. General admission and the pre-show are at 5pm. The show begins at 6pm.

Veterans Memorial Arena / 300 A. Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / 2023. jamtour.com/cities/jacksonville-fl

Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens MLK Day Celebration

January 16, 11am to 4pm

Join the Cummer Museum for a day of reflection in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. There will be free in-person experiences, including a mindful yoga session, live music, art-making activities, a gallery scavenger hunt, a special performance from the Jacksonville Arts & Music School youth chorus, and a Prayer for Peace at 2pm. The mindful yoga session will be held in the Cummer Gardens before the Museum opens. Please bring your own mat. Registration for this activity is required. Admission is free.

Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens / 904-3566857 / 829 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.cummermuseum.org

Let’s Go Science Show

January 21, 2pm

The Let’s Go Science Show is a wacky look at “how things work” with Professor Smart and Ms. Knowitall. This production teaches physics concepts through theatrically based experiments and demonstrations. There will be lots of audience interaction as well as impressive scenery, great lighting, and illusions. Tickets for the public performance start at $10.

Nathan H. Wilson Center for the Arts / 904632-5000 / 11901 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.fscjartistseries.org

The Greatest Love of All: A Tribute to Whitney Houston • January 21, 8pm Whitney’s musical legacy is brought to life in this critically acclaimed tribute show. Belinda Davids, a RiSA chart-topping artist in her home country of South Africa, portrays musical legend Whitney Houston. The show features the accompaniment of a live band, backing vocalists, and choreographed dancers, plus state-of-the-art sound, lighting, vision, and theatrical effects. Tickets range from $44 to $112.50.

Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts / 904-632-5000 / 300 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.fscjartistseries.org

Riverdance • January 24-25, 7:30pm

Riverdance returns for its 25th Anniversary Tour. The show will be in Jacksonville for two performances only. Tickets range from $39 to $115.50. There are also Pre-Show VIP Experience tickets available, which include early access to the venue hall to watch cast warm-ups, a VIP laminate, and a short Q&A with select cast members prior to the performance. This offer is a separate ticket

purchase in addition to the performance ticket cost. All persons attending the VIP experience must also have a performance ticket.

Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts / 904-632-5000 / 300 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.fscjartistseries.org

75th Annual Jacksonville Boat Show

January 27, 11am to 6pm; January 28, 10am to 6pm; January 29, 10am to 4pm

The Jacksonville Boat Show returns to the Prime Osborne Convention Center. There will be a large variety of boats on display, from skiing, fishing, cruisers, personal watercrafts, and more. There will be activities for the kids all day, as well as seminars and education for the adults. Parking for the general public is $5 per automobile per day. Donna Frantz with Fishing 101 will host a Kids’ Fishing Clinic on Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 1pm. The first 100 kids each day to complete the interactive clinic will receive a rod and reel combo. Ticket prices: Adults: $15, Children 5 to 12: $5 (Under 4 Free), Senior +55: $12, Military or First Responder with ID: $12. Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center / 1000 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.boatjax.com

Art Bike Tour of Downtown Jax & Florida Theatre • January 28, 10am, 12noon, 2pm Art Bikes Jax and the Florida Theatre are teaming up for a day of tours. Explore the gallery of public art, architecture, parks, and points of interest in and around downtown Jacksonville by bike with Ron Rothberg, founder of Art Bikes Jax, as your guide. Registration is $50. Your event ticket will include one bike tour, a gift bag, and a tour of the Florida Theatre. Please bring your own bike. Each shift is limited to 40 people. Proceeds will benefit both Art Bikes Jax and the historic Florida Theatre. The tour will start and end at the Florida Theatre.

Florida Theatre / 904-355-2787 / 128 East Forsyth Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.floridatheatre.com

Jacksonville Home & Garden Show

January 13, 12noon to 6pm; January 14, 10am to 6pm; January 15, 11am to 5pm Held at the Jacksonville Fairgrounds Expo Center, the Home & Garden Show will connect you to the area’s leading remodelers, builders, and design professionals. For one weekend, you’ll find wall-to-wall displays and exhibits and have the opportunity to speak directly with experts. Learn the latest trends in design, product offerings, maintenance tips, and more on everything to do with kitchen and

bath remodeling, roofing, flooring, home security, water conditioning, insulation, windows and exterior products, and more. Free parking. Jacksonville Fairgrounds – Expo Center / 952881-5030 / 510 Fairground Place, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.homeshowcenter.com

Jurassic Park In Concert

January 20-21, 7pm

The Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra presents Jurassic Park In Concert. Featuring visually stunning imagery and groundbreaking special effects, the action-packed adventure of Jurassic Park will be projected in HD with a full symphony orchestra performing John Williams' iconic score live to picture. Tickets start at $28.

Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts

Jacoby Symphony Hall / 904-354-5547 / 300 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxsymphony.org

Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts

January 10-15 fscjartistseries.org

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!