July 2019

Visit us online at www.jax4kids.com

In this issue: Your Guide to Summer

FREE!

July 2019

JULY 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 2

Contents

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

I

Dear Readers,

LIVING WELL

n the words of the Beach Boys’ Brian Wilson, “Summer means happy times and good sunshine!” We hope you’re enjoying lots of both this summer. To help you make the most of the summer, we have compiled a list of events, places to go, things to do, deals, discounts, indoor and outdoor activities, sporting events and much more.

Turn to page 4 and visit us online at Jax4Kids. com for a list of 4th of July Events including Fireworks, BBQ’s, and ways to celebrate the holiday.

Editor’s note: Wicked Barley, who’s hosting a 4th of July brunch, is a great little family-friendly restaurant with an outdoor lawn and a sandbox for kids to play in, is dog-friendly, has a 100-foot boat dock and kayak launch. They have a kids menu and you can even host a birthday party outside.

Chick-fil-A’s Cow Day is July 9th. Customers wearing any sort of cow apparel get a free entrée; Kids dressed like a cow get a free kids meal. Every Monday is Mini Mania Monday at Sweet by Holly. Mini cupcakes are $1. You can stop by after your $1 movie at Cinemark Tinseltown. For these and more deals, visit pages 10 and 12 and find out where Kids Bowl Free this summer on page 13.

Harry Potter Yoga anyone? On July 31, enjoy family yoga with a magical twist! Wizards, Muggles, and Squibs are all welcome to celebrate The Chosen One’s birthday with some yoga, games, songs, and activities. Turn to page 6 for details.

If you’ll be visiting the beach this summer, check out our Pediatric Nutrition Specialist, Aurea Thompson’s tips for packing healthy snacks to take to the beach.

JULY 2019

4th of July Events................................................................................................4 Mom’s Night Out Events.......................................................................................5

HEALTH & SAFETY

Things To Do: Health & Safety.............................................................................6

NATURE

Things To Do: Nature..........................................................................................7

Behavior Analyst with Invo Behavior and Therapy Services for her article offering tips to help kids with autism or other sensory disorders enjoy summer parties that include lots of people, music and loud games. You’ll find her article on page 9. Stacey has extensive experience helping children with autism and other sensory disorders and we appreciate her sharing her knowledge.

Planet Fitness is encouraging teens to get into the gym this summer by offering free gym access and classes. The “Teen Summer Challenge” allows 15-to-18-year olds to work out for free through September 1. They’re also giving away a total of $30,500 in scholarship money.

Turn to page 22 for more information.

Those are just a few highlights from this issue, which is filled with great information you can use.

SPECIAL NEEDS

Summer Party Fun for Kids with Autism................................................................8 Things To Do: Special Needs...............................................................................8

SUMMER GUIDE

Summer Deals..................................................................................................10 Public Swimming Pool Schedule........................................................................11 Movie Theater Specials......................................................................................12 Movie Releases.................................................................................................12 Kids Bowl Free..................................................................................................13 Sporting Events.................................................................................................14 Theatre & Arts...................................................................................................15 Sleepover Secrets..............................................................................................16 Which Way to the Beach - and Healthy Snacks...................................................17 Hands-On Activities...........................................................................................18

TRAVEL

Chicago, One of America’s Best Family Vacation Spots........................................19 Scalloping in Florida........................................................................................... 19

Happy Independence Day and enjoy your happy times and good sunshine!

INFANT & TODDLER

Until Next Month,

TEENS

Things to Do: Infant & Toddlers..........................................................................20 Things To Do: Teens Events...............................................................................22

Alison Peters-Carlson Editor

THINGS TO DO

July Events........................................................................................................23

Thanks to Stacey Santagata, a Board-Certified

Follow us...

Alison Peters-Carlson Editor....................... editor@jax4kids.com Linda Bigbee Graphic Designer...................... linda@jax4kids.com Tim Chavez Graphic Designer........................... tim@jax4kids.com Judi Fields Circulation Manager........................judi@jax4kids.com Beth Canonica Advertising Sales.................... beth@jax4kids.com Mary Gustafson Business Manager............... mary@jax4kids.com Published by Child Enrichment, LLC, 12620-3 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246. Copyright 2019.

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.

JULY 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 3

LIVING WELL July 4, 5pm to 10pm As part of the Heart of the Community, Moosehaven brings families together on the banks of the St. Johns. Visitors enjoy warm summer breezes and southern entertainment to celebrate Independence Day with fireworks on the Moosehaven campus. Come celebrate Central Park in Town Center / 386-986-2323 / 975 Central Avenue, Palm Coast, FL 32137 / America’s birthday with live entertainment, and plenty of family activities including a kid’s www.palmcoastgov.com zone, food and more. Gates open at 5pm, with fireworks starting at 9:20pm. Parking is $5 per Palm Coast Family Night - Independence vehicle. The event is free to the community Celebration • July 3, 7pm to 9pm with charges only for Kid Zone, parking, and New Way Church hosts an Independence Celebration for the family. There will be food, food trucks. games, bounce houses, giveaways, and more. Moosehaven / 904-278-1200 / 1701 Park All events are free and open to the community. Avenue, Orange Park, FL 32073 / www.moosehaven.org New Way Church / 386-437-9575 / 293 Old Moody Blvd, Palm Coast, FL 32164 / River & Post’s Red, White & Blue Rooftop www.palmcoastgov.com BBQ 2019 • July 4, 5pm to 11pm River and Post hosts their 2nd Annual Fourth of Celebration 5K July party on the roof. They will be grilling up July 4, 7:30am The race features a great course, chip timing, all the classics and serving sides and sweets while you enjoy live music and more. Once free food, including lots of watermelon, and the sun sets, you’ll be able to view the firefun for the whole family. Activities include a Watermelon Festival, Watermelon Eating Con- works as they light up downtown Jacksonville over the beautiful St. Johns River. Seating is test, Watermelon Seed Spitting Contest, and limited and will be on a first come, first served more. Post-race food will include bananas, basis. Ticket price is $30 and covers general bagels and popsicles. There is a 5K, and also a one mile fun run for the kids. Fees are $10 admission and food. Drinks are not included.

River and Post / 904-575-2366 / 1000 Riverfor the 1 mile fun run, and range from $20 side Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www. to $40 for the 5K. The 5k starts at 7:30am, riverandpostjax.com followed by the 1 Mile Fun Run at 8:30am.

This run features moisture wicking shirts to all participants, custom designed medals to all 5K Hometown All-American 4th of July finishers and 1st Place Sports fun run medals Celebration • July 4, 5pm to 9pm to all mile finishers. Show your support for our Join Light Up Amelia for a fun, family-friendly country and military by carrying either a large 4th of July celebration in Downtown Fernandina Beach. There will be live music from the or small flag during the race. Flags will be Nassau Community Band, vendors, kids zone, provided at the starting line. You can check contests and of course, fireworks. the flag carrying box during registration to Fernandina Beach Harbor Marina / 3 South reserve a flag.

Front St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 / 1st Place Sports / 3931 Baymeadows Road, www.fbfl.us Jacksonville, FL 32217 / www.1stplacesports.com Fireworks Over the Matanzas July 4, 6pm 4th of July Brunch The All Star Orchestra, a favorite of July 4th July 4, 8am to 4pm Kick off your Independence Day celebration at audiences, returns to the Plaza de la Constitucion’s Gazebo, to kick off the evening’s Wicked Barley on Thursday, July 4th. Doors activities with a two hour concert starting at open at 8am, and brunch will be served all 6pm. The concert is free and those attending day. There will be specials, yard games should bring lounge chairs for seating. Fireand more. Kids will get a complimentary ice works Over The Matanzas, the highlight of St. pop with the purchase of a kid’s meal, while Augustine’s traditional July 4th activities, will supplies last. begin at 9:30pm. Visitors are welcome to line Wicked Barley Brewing Company / 904-3797077 / 4100 Baymeadows Road, Jacksonville, the streets and sit anywhere along the Bridge of Lions and South Castillo Drive to view the FL 32217 / www.wickedbarley.com fireworks from downtown.

Downtown St. Augustine / 904-825-1004 / 1 S Moosehaven’s American Pride 4th of July

4th of July Events First Wednesday Art Walk: Red, White & Blues July 3, 5pm to 9pm Produced by Downtown Vision, Inc, Art Walk is on the first Wednesday of every month from 5pm to 9pm, rain or shine. More than 60 Art Walk venues stretch across downtown Jacksonville’s core and include Hemming Park, galleries, museums, cultural and educational venues, restaurants, downtown businesses and more. Browse work from local artists, enjoy live music and bring the kids to enjoy activities in the Kid’s Zone. This month’s theme is Red, White and Blues, in honor of the Fourth of July.

Downtown Jacksonville / 904-634-0303 / 303 N. Laura Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jacksonvilleartwalk.com Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp Independence Day Fireworks July 3, 7:05pm The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp take on the Chattanooga Lookouts. Single game tickets start at $5, with multi-game and group packages available. Join the Jumbo Shrimp for one of the largest fireworks displays in the city after the game. There will also be a Patriotic Cap Giveaway. Gates open at 5:30pm Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville / 904-3582846 / 301 A Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxshrimp.com Fireworks in the Park July 3, 6pm to 9pm The City of Palm Coast celebrates Independence Day with a fireworks display and evening of family fun. Everyone is invited to come to Central Park before the fireworks for family friendly activities including music, face painting, trackless train, corn hole, inflatable basketball, and Ultimate Battle Zone Sports nerf games. They will also have a custom snapchat filter the night of the event. Activities begin at 6pm. While food and drinks will be available for purchase from various food trucks, coolers and pop-up tents are also allowed. There is no charge for entry, parking or participation. New this year is a patriotic ceremony at 7pm to include Honor Guard and Band, the Pledge of Allegiance, reading of the Declaration of Independence, and patriotic music. The “Fireworks in the Park” display will begin at 9pm.

JULY 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 4

Castillo Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.citystaug.com Fourth of July on the River at 841 Prudential • July 4, 7pm to 10pm Cushman & Wakefield host the 2nd annual Fourth of July on the River. Guests will enjoy live entertainment by Mike Cook and Jordyn Stoddard, bounce houses, jumbo yard games, and more. There will also be food available from award winning Anthony’s Catering and Jacksonville’s favorite Food Trucks Butt Hutt and El Agave Azul. Admission is $12 and children get in free with the purchase of an adult ticket. Guests will enjoy free secure parking located in the 841 Parking Garage. The event starts at 7pm and Jacksonville’s fireworks show will begin at 9:45pm. Bring your lawn chairs. No outside food, drinks or coolers.

Cushman and Wakefield / 841 Prudential Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www.eventbrite.com Fireworks over the St. Johns River July 4, 9:45pm Fireworks will be launched high above the St. Johns River from the Acosta Bridge and from a barge on the St. Johns River between the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront, Lexington Hotel & Conference Center, Jacksonville Riverwalk, and DoubleTree by Hilton Jacksonville Riverfront hotels. This spectacular show will begin at 9:45pm and last approximately 15 minutes. The July 4th Fireworks show will be viewable from both the North and South banks in Downtown Jacksonville in addition to viewing from Brooklyn and under the Fuller Warren Bridge where the Riverside Arts Market is held.

Downtown Jacksonville / 2 West Independent Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.specialevents.coj.net 4th of July Fireworks Celebration at Jacksonville Beach • July 4, 9pm The City of Jacksonville Beach hosts the annual 4th of July Fireworks, to be held at the Pier.

The Pier Parking lot will be open for seating only, so bring your chairs and blankets.

Downtown Jacksonville Beach / 904-2476100 / 75 1st Street North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / www.jacksonvillebeach.org

For more 4th of July Events, visit Jax4Kids.com’s online 4th of July Events calendar.

Adult Coloring Club July 2, 1pm to 4pm July 18, 10am to 12noon Many adults are finding that coloring clubs for adults are a great way to reduce stress and meet new people. Create new art you can feel proud of while you de-stress and relax. Supplies will be provided, you just need to pick out your design and start coloring.

Free. St. Johns County Public Library, Ponte Vedra Beach Branch / 904-827-6950 / 101 Library Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www.sjcpls.org Publix Aprons Cooking School Open House • July 11, 5pm to 7pm Publix Aprons Cooking School hosts a free open house. Stop by and meet the chefs, sample some food and beverage pairings from upcoming featured classes, and discover all that the cooking school has to offer.

Publix Aprons Cooking School / 904-2624187 / 10500 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www.publix.com Skincare Tips + Sips July 13, 12noon to 2pm Are your products piling up on the counter waiting to expire? Not sure which order your products should be applied in? Unsure of what products work best for your skin type? Skin Craze will help you organize your skincare to work for your lifestyle. Adults are invited for an afternoon filled with cocktails, sweet treats & lots of SKINfo. Tickets are $10 and include cocktails, complimentary skincare consults & mini bites. A portion of ticket sales will go toward Sulzbacher Center. All ticket purchases will be entered into a raffle.

Skin Craze / 904-416-9758 / 1626 Hendricks Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www. skin-craze.com Flower Workshop • July 16, 7pm to 9pm Adults are invited to make a fresh flower arrangement. Talented designers will guide you through the steps to make a beautiful bouquet using a selection of fresh-cut flowers. South Kitchen & Spirits / 904-4752362 / 3638 Park Street, Jacksonville, FL 32205 / www.yaymaker.com DIY Mosaic Night July 18, 6pm to 8:30pm Adults are invited to The Craft House for a DIY Mosaic Night. Prices start at $20. No experience necessary. Mosaic projects, instruction and supplies are included. You will be sent home with a grouting kit and

instructions. You may choose from 4 grout colors, white, black, linen and gray. Local artist Laure Norton will give you step-by-step instructions to complete your mosaic art.

Most projects come with a hanger on the back. Projects are for indoor use or can be used on a covered patio. Participants can bring their own snacks and drinks. Teachers can get 25% off.

The Craft House / 904-535-6255 / 1820 State Road 13, St. Johns, FL 32259 / www.beachlifemosaics.com Watercolor Seascapes • July 20, 11am Join local artist and graphic designer Kasha Fahy for a seascape watercolor class. This class is for all levels and free of charge. Participants must be 18 years of age or older.

Space is limited. Please visit the Reference Desk, or call to register. St. Johns County Public Library, Ponte Vedra Beach Branch / 904-827-6950 / 101 Library Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www.sjcpls.org Eat, Drink & Detox July 22, 6pm to 8pm Join the staff from Science Based Wellness on Monday, July 22 at Nona Blue in Ponte Vedra Beach and learn how to rid your body of toxic overload that could be impacting your health. Want to lose weight? Sleep better? Have better skin? This healthy detox will help you with these things and many more.

Bring your detoxing buddy for a fun, relaxing and interactive event. Complimentary appetizers and drinks will be served. Adult Mom’s Night Out event. Tickets are $10 and available for purchase online or by calling 904-834-2337. Limited Seating.

Nona Blue Modern Tavern / 904-834-2337 / 325 Front Street, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www.sciencewellness.net

3 Convenient Locations 8411 Baymeadows Way, Jacksonville, FL 32256 1406 Kingsley Ave. Suite E, Orange Park, FL 32073 880 US Highway A1A North, Suite 6, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082

She Is Fierce!

July 24, 5:30pm to 8pm Join Jacksonville’s local leaders and women on the rise for Cocktails, Connections & Inspiration. Hosted by WJCT’s Melissa Ross, the evening will feature the inspiring personal story of Lakesha Burton, Assistant Chief of Police and Executive Director of the Police Athletic League. The evening is geared for adults, and would make a good Mom’s Night Out. Tickets start at $35 and are available online.

Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens / 904315-8833 / 829 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.sheisfiercehq.com

JULY 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 5

HEALTH & SAFETY

Things to Do

Yoga For All • July 8, 10:15am All levels are welcome to a yoga class at the library. Be sure to wear comfortable clothing, and bring a mat and water. Free.

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

on practice for CPR/AED (automatic external defibrillator) and choke-saving skills for adult, child and infant. In addition to CPR, this class Annual Bridge of Lions 5K will cover injury prevention tips and child July 13, 7:30am safety. Whether you are a parent, grandparent, JTC Running’s 2019 Track Series Runners and walkers are welcome for the babysitter or friend this single session will July 6, 8am; July 13, 8am annual Bridge of Lions 5K. The event will start provide you with the skills that can turn a life JTC hosts a summer track series. Events threatening situation into a lifesaving one. at the historic Castillo de San Marcos (The include long jump, 100, 1600, 200, 4x100, Fort), in downtown St. Augustine, run over the This course is not for health care providers or pole vault, and more. Entry to all meets is Let’s Get Cooking Health & Nutrition Classes Bridge of Lions, and through Davis Shores. The anyone seeking professional certification card. free of charge to all pre-registered online race finishes at Oglethorpe Park, on Anastasia Cost is $30.

Wednesdays, July 10 - July 31 participants. Free online registration will Y Healthy Living Center Mandarin / 904-202Island. There will be free parking at the Cas10am to 11am close at 6pm the Friday preceding each meet. Join Chef John Cartel for a free 4-week class tillo de San Marcos until 10am or at the finish 2229 / 10415 San Jose Boulevard, JacksonOne time registration enters an athlete in all series focused on healthy nutrition that tastes line in Davis Shores. There is no transportation ville, FL 32257 / www.baptistjax.com meets. Age groups: 0-5, 6-7, 8-9, 10-12, 13- great. You’ll gain confidence in the kitchen and provided for runners between the start and 15, 16-19, and adult categories. Those not Harry Potter Yoga • July 31, 5pm to 6pm learn how to make healthier shopping choices, finish. However, it is only about a half mile pre-registered will be charged $5 for day of Family yoga with a magical twist! Wizards, walk when taking a direct route. Many of the on a budget. Take a proactive approach for meet registration. Bib pickup and day of meet your sustained good health. Each week, Chef participants prefer to park at the finish line Muggles, and Squibs are all welcome. Come registration will open one hour prior to first celebrate The Chosen One’s birthday with Cartel will focus on a specific nutrition topic: and walk to the start, prior to the race. Entry event. Awards: Medals will be given to the some yoga, games, songs, and activities. $20 family meals in 20 minutes, diabetics fees range from $25 to $35. Castillo de San top three in each individual event. No medals choice, healthy no carbs, and tasteful weight Marcos / 1 South Castillo Drive, St. Augustine, Dress up in your house colors or as your favorfor relay teams. All athletes age 12 and under loss. He will also teach cooking essentials in- FL 32084 / www.bridgeoflions5k.com ite character. Pricing starts at $15 with class will receive participation ribbons. packages available. Grow Family / 904-310cluding: keys to being a good cook, fact-based The Bolles School / 7400 San Jose Blvd, 4190 / 4070 Herschel Street, Jacksonville, FL nutrition information, food safety tips and prep Family and Friends CPR Jacksonville, FL 32217 / 32210 / www.growhappyfamily.com July 18, 6pm to 9pm demonstrations, all about proteins, fats and www.jtc.wildapricot.org carbs, and locally-sourced ingredients. Well- This American Heart Association course Visit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list of “Family and Friends CPRâ€? will give you hands Care HMO / 904-348-5241 / 5115 Normandy Health & Safety Events.

Health & Safety

Blvd, Suite #1, Jacksonville, FL 32205 / www.hapcopromo.org

Stop hiding from the Dentist TRY SEDATION DENTISTRY

Carlson Voted Best Dental Office!

JULY 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 6

ADVANCED DENTISTRY & FACIAL ESTHETICS

NATURE

Things to Do Nature Events

Homeschool Zoocademy 2019-20 Info Session • July 2, 1pm Homeschool Zoocademy at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is a unique experience for homeschooled students ages 5-15. Zoocademy covers a wide range of topics in Biology, Zoology, Environmental Science and Conservation, with lessons, activities, and crafts suited to each age group. Students will attend classes once a month from September 2019-March 2020. Please RSVP online so staff can gauge attendance. Free to attend. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens / 904-757-4463 / 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218 / www.jacksonvillezoo.org Guided Exploration Hike July 6, 9am to 11am During the guided hike, visitors can learn about the cultural history of the Guana Peninsula, as well as the natural biodiversity of the reserve. Hear about the peninsula’s 5,000 years of human history, including how native peoples used estuarine resources, what European plantation life was like, and current efforts to learn about and save these resources. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable closed-toe shoes. The event is free, but there is a $3 per vehicle parking fee.

GTM Research Reserve Trailhead Pavilion / 904-823-4500 / 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www.gtmnerr.org Terrific Turtles • July 6, 2pm to 3pm Come out to the Nature Center to meet and learn about some terrific turtles while you make a “stained glass” turtle to put on your window at home. Admission is $2, plus a $5 parking fee.

Crooked River State Park / 912-882-5256 / 6222 Charlie Smith Senior Highway, St. Marys, GA 31558 / explore.gastateparks.org Family Seining • July 13, 9am to 11am The GTM Research Reserve hosts Family Seinings. Join staff and/or volunteers for a guided family seining activity. Visitors will get the chance to pull a seine net through Guana Lake, collecting species of fish, crabs and more, and then learn about the animals and their roles in the habitat. All necessary gear, including waders and boots, will be provided. There is a $3 per vehicle parking fee.

The event is free. Please meet the guides at Guana Dam Recreational Area. They will be located at either the north or south boat

launch, depending on the tide. For more information, call 904-823-4500 or click here to reserve a spot online. GTM Research Reserve / 904-823-4500 / 505 Guana River Rd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www.gtmnerr.org Nature Detectives July 13, 11am and 1:30pm Learn why bat pollinators matter and how to help them. Kids ages 6-12 years are invited to become Nature Detectives. Please visit the Reference Desk, or call to register. The second workshop is a repeat of the first. St. Johns County Public Library, Ponte Vedra Beach Branch / 904-827-6950 / 101 Library Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www.sjcpls.org Sharks: Misunderstood Creatures of the Sea • July 17, 2pm to 3pm Sharks are one of the most feared creatures of the sea, but what do you really know about them? Come learn about the shark species that frequent area waters, the unique adaptations these animals have, and the real facts about shark attacks. This program is free and seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.

St. Johns County Public Library, Ponte Vedra Beach Branch / 904-209-0335 / 101 Library Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www.co.st-johns.fl.us Youth Fishing Derby • July 20, 8am to 1pm Families are invited to Waterfront Park for a day of family fun, food, and catch-and-release fishing. Youth will be eligible for various prizes based on different categories such as longest fish, heaviest fish, most fish, smallest fish and others. Youth must be accompanied by an adult. Any adult actively assisting a youth must have a fishing license. Free with pre-registration encouraged.

Waterfront Park / 386-986-2323 / 150 Waterfront Park Road, Palm Coast, FL 32137 / www.palmcoastgov.com Beach Combing on Cumberland Island July 27, 9am to 12:30pm Enjoy a boat ride to Cumberland Island where you’ll stroll the beach with a Park Ranger identifying shells and sea life along the shore.

Get a chance to photograph the famous wild horses and see coastal birds. Binoculars provided. Space limited. The event is open to ages 6 and older. Pre-registration required by 4:30pm the Friday prior to cruise. Cost is $45, with a $5 parking fee.

Crooked River State Park / 912-882-5256 / 6222 Charlie Smith Senior Highway, St. Marys, GA 31558 / explore.gastateparks.org

We’ve got the biggest fans to keep you cool this summer!

All-inclusive family activity from those as young as 3 years old.

Open 365 days with times convenient to your schedule.

Experience takes around an hour and a half and includes all your gear, training & instruction, a minimum of 2 flights per person.

We can host birthday events, family reunions, and any special event. Discounts available for groups of 6 or more.

• Birthday Parties • STEM Field Trips

10579 Brightman Blvd, Jacksonville, 32246 904-712-3388

www.iflyworld.com/jacksonville

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

JULY 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 7

SPECIAL NEEDS

Summer Party Fun for Kids with Autism S ummer fun means long lazy days filled with picnics and barbeques. But parties with lots of people, music and loud games can be overwhelming for kids who have autism or other sensory disorders. Some may get excited and scream, rock or flap their arms.

Others may cry and try to run away.

Many families decide to just stay home. That’s too bad. The family misses a fun event and kids with ASD miss a chance to practice social skills and learn how to adapt to new situations. Equally important, there are many easy things parents can do to help kids with autism enjoy summer parties.

Advance Planning Planning ahead helps kids with autism get comfortable with new experiences. Start talking about a pool party or barbeque a few days before the party. Get online and look at pictures of families gathered around a pool, kids playing games and the like.

This is a good time to talk about what you’ll do at the party, who will be there and a general schedule. For example, “It will be really fun.

We’ll say hi to your friends. Then we’ll play games and swim. We’ll have dinner and go home.”

fewer kids, such as blowing bubbles or sidewalk chalk.

If your child has a favorite toy, bring it along so there’s always something to keep her happy.

Take a Break Before you go to an event, identify a quiet space to take your child if you see signs of anxiety or discomfort. A secluded den or a quiet spot under a tree might be perfect.

When you arrive, show your son where he can escape to if needed and watch for signs that it’s time for a break. Bringing favorite comfort items can also help soothe kids until they’re ready to rejoin the party.

The Key to Success: Be Realistic and Positive Exposing kids with ASD to new experiences is a good way to help them build social skills and become more flexible. But it’s important to be realistic about what your child can manage and enjoy.

If you see your child getting uncomfortable or know their general time limit, it’s best to leave before distress escalates into a meltdown. This will end the party on a happy note and make other summer events more appealing.

If your child will need to wear something new such as water wings, practice putting them on a few times in advance.

You might also want to start with short stays and gradually increase the amount of time as your child relaxes and is having fun.

Food Solutions Kids with autism often have specific eating patterns, allergies or are on special diets. If your child doesn’t or can’t eat hamburgers, hot dogs or whatever your hosts are serving, bring food and snacks he’ll enjoy. Let your hosts know so they don’t push your child to eat or make an issue of it.

A positive attitude has a big impact. Most kids take emotional cues from their parents. If you stay calm no matter what happens, your child is more likely to do the same.

Many kids with autism won’t eat in new places or near a lot of people. If this is the case for your child, feed him before the event so he doesn’t get hangry.

Playing Games Running relay races, playing Marco Polo in the pool or tossing water balloons might be too much noise and activity for children with autism. Organize some quieter games with

JULY 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 8

There’s no such thing as the “perfect” summer party. At every party, some neurotypical kids get overloaded, need a break or act out. So it’s not surprising if your child does the same. If your son or daughter plays with other kids for a few minutes, eats a snack or takes a break instead of melting down, that’s a great start on summer fun now and in the future. j Stacey Santagata, Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Invo Behavior and Therapy Services invotherapies.com 1-800-356-4049 6859 Belfort Oaks Place, Jacksonville, FL 32216 6196 Lake Gray Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32244

Things to Do

Sensory Friendly Movies at B&B Theatres July 20 B&B Theatres is committed to creating environments where cinema lovers of all types can watch a movie in comfort and without All Abilities Night at iFLY Jacksonville fear of judgment or rebuke. In order to better July 1, 5pm to 8pm accommodate guests with varying levels All Abilities Night at iFLY is a unique event of physical or mental challenge, they host that makes the dream of flight a reality for Sensory Friendly viewings in association with those in the special needs community. This particular films. These showtimes feature program has been custom designed for brighter auditorium lighting, lower audio those with physical and cognitive challenges levels, and are open and available for anyone to create an environment of support and that may have trouble in conventional cinema inclusion, while focusing on making what settings. This showing will be of the newly seems impossible, possible. For more details released movie The Lion King. and to reserve your spot, contact iFLY at B&B Theatre Amelia 7 / 904-729-4826 / 904-712-3388 or sales@iflyjacksonville.com. 1132 South 14th Street, Fernandina Beach, Everyone in the special needs community FL 32034 / www.bbtheatres.com is welcome to participate. Event package includes a pre-flight training session, and Adult Mental Health First Aid all the necessary flight gear (suit, helmet, July 25, 9am to 5pm goggles). Each flyer will be assisted by This 8-hour training is designed to give comspecially trained Flight Instructors during the munity members key skills to help someone event with extra attention and accommodawho is developing or experiencing a mental tions based on participant needs. Each flyer health crisis. Participants will earn a 2 year receives 2 flights (1 minute each) for $39.95 certification in 8 hours – at no cost to you. and a free video. iFLY / 904-712-3388 / Many adults are experiencing a mental health 10579 Brightman Blvd, Jacksonville, FL crisis and don’t know where to turn. Grad32246 / www.iflyworld.com uates of this innovative program serve as a “first line of defense”. No cost to attend, and Sensory Art Class at Sensory Towne YMCA membership is not required. HowevWednesdays, July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 10am er, seating is limited and advance registration Sensory Fun Art Class every Wednesday is required. morning at 10am. Regular admission Y Healthy Living Center Ponte Vedra / 904includes 1 hour of open play after art class.

202-5376 / 170 Landrum Lane, Ponte Vedra There will be a new project and sensory fun Beach, FL 32082 / www.baptistjax.com each week. Cost is $12, and $8 for siblings.

Register online in advance.

2019 Georgia Autism Providers ConferSensory Towne / 904-551-6443 / 8380 ence • July 29-August 1, 8am to 5pm Baymeadows Road Suite 6, Jacksonville, FL The Georgia Autism Providers Conference 32256 / www.sensorytowne.com is designed with the practitioner in mind, offering session and workshop topics that are Jumpstreet Special Needs Event both extremely practical and highly informaJuly 6, 9am to 10am tive. The overall mission of the conference is Jumpstreet hosts a special event for children to equip professionals and caregivers with with special needs and their siblings. The the skills needed to provide evidence-based semi-private event will be held the first treatment and intervention in home, school, Saturday of the month. From 9am to 10am, clinic, and community settings. Tickets the event is private; from 10am to 11am, range from $93.75 to $475 and are available the event is open to the public. Cost is $8 online. Jekyll Island Convention Center / for children 5 and up; $4 for children 4 and 912-385-2927 / 75 Beachview Drive North, under. Parents/guardians are free.

Jekyll Island, GA 31527 / Jumpstreet / 904-853-5721 / 1214 Beach www.thehowardcenterforscc.com Blvd, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / Visit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list www.gotjump.com of Special Needs events.

Special Needs Events

“Sun is shining. Weather is sweet. Make you wanna move your dancing feet.”

– Bob Marley

Help Your Little Learner Shine At School Early LEARNERS Gr up!

Autism and other developmental delays can present a spectrum of learning challenges at school. Some children are almost, but not quite ready for preschool or kindergarten, and need some additional support. Invo’s Early Learners Group is designed by Board Certified Behavior Analysts to help children get ready for their next academic milestones.

In our Early Learners Group, your little learner will be a part of a structured, small-group classroom where we use evidence-based methodologies to promote skill acquisition and enhance your child’s readiness for school.

Our goal matches yours: to get your child ready to successfully participate in school and other social settings!

Call 800.356.4049 today to get started or go to invotherapies.com to register your child today!

Give your 3-6 year-old child what’s needed to achieve the next academic milestone: • Ready-to-learn skills • Self-care skills • Social skills • Peer interaction • Group-learning skills • Pretend play • Play/recreation skills • Daily living skills • Classroom readiness

Locations: 6859 Belfort Oaks Pl. Jacksonville, FL 32216 6196 Lake Gray Blvd., Suite 117 Jacksonville, FL 32244

Driving Progress. Delivering Outcomes. Empowering Families.

800.356.4049 | invotherapies.com

JULY 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 9

SUMMER GUIDE

Summer Deals Beaches Rock Gym Friday Kids Climb Fridays, July 5, 12, 19, 26, 1pm to 5pm Beaches Rock Gym hosts Kids Climb on Fridays. From 1pm to 5pm, kids ten and under receive a $10 day pass and free shoe rentals.

Beaches Rock Gym / 904-222-0707 / 14 West 3rd Street, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 / www.beachesrockgym.com Busch Gardens FREE Preschool Card Limited-time offer: Kids 5 and younger can enjoy FREE admission to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Adventure Island throughout all of 2019 with the Preschool Card. There’s never been a cooler time to be a kid!

Must register online. Not available at the park.

Redeem your Preschool Card by visiting a Busch Gardens Tampa Bay or Adventure Island ticket window and present all of these: Your registration confirmation Your child’s birth certificate or travel passport Your Florida resident ID Visit buschgardens.com/tampa/tickets/preschool-free-admission to register online.

Bruster’s Free Baby Cone and Doggie Sundaes Participating area Bruster’s offers free Doggie Sundaes for all dogs, and a free baby cone for kids 40” or under (42” or under at the Jacksonville location). Bruster’s / Jacksonville Location / 904-221-1441 / 12224 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225 Mandarin Location / 904-886-1995 / 1170160 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 Oakleaf Location / 904-771-0722 / 9590 Applecross Road, Jacksonville, FL 32222 St. Augustine Location / 904-679-3652 / 3501-G Ponce De Leon Blvd., St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.brusters.com Chick-fil-A Cow Appreciation Day July 9 Customers who arrive wearing any sort of cow apparel will receive one free entrée (entrée salads are not available as part of Cow Appreciation Day). Kids dressed like a cow may select a Kid’s Meal. Area Chick-fil-A Restaurants / www.chick-fil-a.com Cummer Museum Summer Fridays Free admission every Friday evening through September 6. Each Friday will feature free entertainment such as live music, art-making

activities, lawn games, gallery tours, lounge areas and more. Additional programming will be available for purchase such as admission to featured exhibitions, arts and cultural experiences and food and beverages. Daily themes include Freedom Friday on July 5, Summer in the City: New York, NY on July 12, Sunshine State: Flora, Fauna and Fun on July 19 and Soulful Summer Celebration on July 26.

Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens / 904-3566857 / 829 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.cummermuseum.org Family BOGO Night at Jacksonville Ice & Sportsplex Every Tuesday from 7:30pm until 9pm is Buy One Get One Free Admission to enjoy ice skating.

Jacksonville Ice & Sportsplex / 904-399-3223 / 3605 Philips Highway, Jacksonville, FL. 32207 / www.jacksonvilleice.com Florida Blue Free Tuesdays at the Cummer Museum July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 4pm to 9pm Every Tuesday, enjoy free admission to the Cummer Museum and its historic Gardens, thanks to the generous support of Florida Blue.

Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens / 904-3566857 / 829 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.cummermuseum.org Hang $10 Thursdays at Adventure Landing Thursdays, July 4, 11, 18, 5pm to 8pm This summer, Adventure Landing in Jacksonville Beach hosts Hang $10 Thursdays. Enjoy discounted waterpark admission for $10.99.

Adventure Landing, Jacksonville Beach / 904246-4386 / 1944 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / jacksonville-beach.adventurelanding.com Mini Mania Monday Mondays, July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Every Monday, mini cupcakes at Sweet By Holly are $1 each. There are dozens of flavors to choose from, including key lime, s’mores, German chocolate, and more.

Sweet By Holly / 904-564-2711 / 4624 Town Crossing Dr., Suite 137, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.sweetbyholly.com

JULY 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 10

SAVE AT SYLVAN Call now to schedule a skills assessment and Sylvan will design a personalized summer program for your child.

Orange Park

904-269-3561

$95 Sylvan Skills Assessment Expires 07-31-19. Cannot be combined with other offers.

Some restrictions apply. Jax4Kids0719

North Jacksonville

904-757-7414

www.SylvanLearning.com READING, WRITING, MATH, ALGEBRA/GEOMETRY ACT/SAT TEST PREP

Discover a world 75 million years in the making!

05.25.19 — 09.02.19 Created by

SUMMER GUIDE

Public Swimming Pool Schedule St. Johns County - Solomon Calhoun Community Center & Pool • Thru August 4 The Solomon Calhoun Community Center Pool is a Jr. Olympic sized swimming pool with a lesson pool with a splash area. They host lap swim, adult lap swim, recreation / open swim, swim lessons and a Jr. Lifeguard Program, and St. Augustine Cyclones Swim Team. Fees: Daily – Child $1, Adult $2; Multi-Use Cards (12 swims) – Child $8, Adult $13; Annual Pass – $110. Due to the numerous closures from the recent weather, they created a pool hotline for updates on if the pool is open or closed for residents to call prior to heading to the facility. The number is updated by pool staff daily on closures and openings of the pool.

Pool / Weather Hotline: 904-209-0380. Family Swim availability will vary throughout the day depending on pool usage from programming.

Lap Swimming is based on pool capacity. Times listed are times that the facility is able to offer an extra lane. At all other times, the aquatic staff will work with all programs to free up a lane for lap swimmers. Please note: The pool will be open from 10am to 2pm on July 4, and will be closed on July 13.

Monday thru Friday: Lap Swim - 6am to 8:30am, 10am to 3pm, 4pm to 6:30pm Monday thru Friday: Family Swim - 10am to 3pm, 4pm to 6pm Saturday: Lap Swim and Family Swim - 9am to 3pm Sunday: Lap Swim and Family Swim - 1pm to 4pm Solomon Calhoun Pool / 904-209-0395 / 1300 Duval Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.co.st-johns.fl.us City of Fernandina Beach 2019 Pool Schedule • Thru August 11 The Parks & Recreation Department operates aquatics facilities at the Atlantic Recreation Center and Martin Luther King, Jr. Center. Each facility has a main pool, suitable for a variety of aquatics programming, and a kiddie pool with multiple water features. Daily admission rates are $5. City residents may apply for a discount resident ID card in the Administration Office.

There are also 10 day passes, as well as one month, four month, and yearly passes available.

During business hours, you may call 904-3103350 ext. 1 for the status of pool closure.

Weekdays : Atlantic Center Pools Lap Swim - 6am – 7:50am Public Swim - 12pm – 7pm Martin Luther King Jr. Center Pools Public Swim - 10am – 5pm

Weekends : Atlantic Center Pools Public Swim - Saturdays, July thru August 3, 11am to 7pm Public Swim - Sundays, 11am to 7pm Martin Luther King Jr. Center Pools Public Swim - Saturdays, 12noon to 6pm and Sundays: 2pm to 6pm City of Fernandina Beach / 904-310-3350 / www.fbfl.us Atlantic Recreation Center / 2500 Atlantic Avenue, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 Martin Luther King Jr Recreation Center / 1200 Elm Street, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 Camp Chowenwaw Pool Thru August 12 The swimming pool is open daily through August 12, when it resumes a weekend schedule.

Pool fees are $3 ages 2 -15, $4 ages 16 – 64 and $2 ages 64 and up. Group rates and swimming lessons are available.

Camp Chowenwaw County Park / 904-5298058 / 1517 Ball Road, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 / www.claycountygov.com

Episcopal Children’s Services Free Child Care Resource & Referral (904) 726-1500 • (800) 238-3463 www.ecs4kids.org Child Care Resource and Referral Services can help your family by providing: • A customized list of local child care options from our trained specialists.

• Information about quality child care and early learning programs • Financial assistance strategies and opportunities • Referrals to other community resources and programs.

City of Jacksonville 2019 Pool Schedule Thru September 2 Swim year-round at the Cecil Aquatic Center or enjoy any of JaxParks 33 outdoor pools open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Outdoor pools are open 1pm to 7pm Monday through Friday, 11am to 6pm Saturday and 2pm to 6pm Sunday. Please note that several pools are in various stages of repair and will be closed for some or all of the summer. Those pools are: Harts Road Pool, Ed White Pool, Englewood Pool, Sunny Acres Pool, Kennedy Pool, Oceanway Pool, Julius Guinyard Pool, and Charles Clark Pool. Please check to see if they have re-opened before going to those locations.

City of Jacksonville / 904-744-5557 / www.coj.net Spring Park Spring-Fed Pool Thru September 2 The pool is open 11am to 7pm Tuesdays through Sundays, through Labor Day. Pool is closed on Mondays for maintenance. Pool admission is $4 for adults, $3 for active military and seniors 65+ and $2 for children ages 2 – 17. Children under 2 are free. Swim lessons are available. Daily fees are cash only. City will not accept bills larger than $20 for pool entry.

Spring Park Spring-Fed Pool / 904-297-7500 x3332 / 106 Walnut St, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 / www.greencovesprings.com

Early

Learning Coalition North Florida

Helping Children. Helping Families.

OPENS JULY 18

For Showtimes and Tickets:

Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .ai

Facebook “f ” Logo

WORLDGOLFIMAX.COM

World Golf Village | I-95 Exit 323 | St. Augustine

JULY 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 11

CMYK / .ai

Movie Releases

SUMMER GUIDE

Movie Theater Specials Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse Thru August 7 See recently released G and PG films for kids for $1 per person per movie at the door the morning of the program. All show times at 9:30am, Monday-Wednesday.

July 1-3 -- Smallfoot, PG July 8-10 -- Kung Fu Panda, PG July 15-17 -- The Lego Movie, PG July 22-24 -- Spongebob Squarepants Out of Water, PG July 29-31 -- Sherlock Gnomes, PG August 5-7 -- Hotel Transylvania 3, PG Cinemark Tinseltown / 904-998-2122 / 4535 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32216 / www.cinemark.com Regal Summer Movie Express 2019 • Thru September 4 Admission to the Summer Movie Express is $1. Tickets available for purchase at the box office and all movies start at 10am. Each week both movies play on both days.

Week 5, July 2-3 -- Movies: Despicable Me 3 / Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch (2018) Week 6, July 9-10 -- Movies: Lego Movie 2 / How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World Week 7, July 16-17 -- Movies: Smallfoot / Secret Life of Pets Week 8, July 23-24 -- Movies: Lego Movie / Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie Week 9, July 30-31 -- Movies: Sing / How to Train Your Dragon 2 Week 10, August 6-7 -- Movies: Penguins of Madagascar / Boss Baby Week 11, August 13-14 -- Kung Fu Panda 3 / Lego Ninjago Movie Week 12, August 20-21 -- Trolls / Minions Week 13, August 27-28 -- Madagascar / Shrek 2 Week 14, September 3-4 -- How to Train Your Dragon / Storks Regal / www.regmovies.com Regal River City Marketplace Stadium 14 / 12884 City Center Blvd, Jacksonville FL 32218 Regal Avenues Stadium 20 & RPX / 9525 Phillips Highway, Jacksonville FL 32256 Regal Beach Boulevard Stadium 18 / 14051 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville FL 32250 B&B Theatres Summer Kids Movie Series Thru July 25 B&B Theatres hosts family friendly blast from the past movies rated G or PG. Movies will be shown Tuesdays-Thursdays at 10am. Cost is $3/person.

July 2-4 -- The Lorax

July 9-11 -- Trolls July 16-18 -- How to Train Your Dragon: Hidden World July 23-25 -- Shrek B&B Theatre Amelia 7 / 904-729-4826 / 1132 South 14th Street, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 / www.bbtheatres.com AMC Summer Movie Camp 2019 Thru July 31 Get admission to a kid-friendly movie and a KidsPack for $4 plus tax, every Wednesday at 10am. Tickets available at box office only.

KidsPack includes kid-sized popcorn, kidsized fountain drink, and a pack of AMC Frooti Tootis.

July 3 -- Smallfoot, Rated PG July 10 -- The Lego Movie 2, Rated PG July 17 -- Teen Titans Go! To The Movies, Rated PG July 24 -- The House With A Clock In Its Walls, Rated PG July 31 -- How To Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World, Rated PG AMC Yulee 10 / 904-321-8615 / 96012 Lofton Square Court, Yulee, FL 32097 / www.amctheatres.com New Vision Theatres Summer Kids Movie Series • Thru July 25 New Vision Theatres presents a Summer Kids Movie Series on Thursdays at 10am. Tickets are $4.50 plus tax, and include the movie, kidsized popcorn, and a kid-sized fountain drink.

July 4 -- Madagascar July 11 -- Puss in Boots July 18 -- Monsters vs. Aliens July 25 -- Chicken Run Fleming Island 12 / 820 Town Center Blvd, Fleming Island, FL 32003 / www.newvisiontheatres.com Summer Kids Films at San Marco Theatre Thru August 1 The San Marco Theatre hosts Summer Kids Films. The movies start at 10am. Cost is $5 for the movie, popcorn and a drink. Tickets are available online, by searching the date you’d like to attend.

July 9 & 11 -- Wonder Park July 16 & 18 -- How to Train Your Dragon 3 July 23 & 25 -- Minions July 30 & August 1 -- Penguins of Madagascar San Marco Theatre / 904-396-5130 / 1996 San Marco Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www.sanmarcotheatre.com

JULY 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 12

For ages 7-14

SESSION A: June 3-28 SESSION B: July 8-Aug. 2

Spider-Man: Far From Home Not Yet Rated Opens July 2 Following the events of Avengers: Endgame, Spider-Man must step up to take on new threats in a world that has changed forever.

The Lion King Not Yet Rated Opens July 19 After the murder of his father, a young lion prince flees his kingdom only to learn the true meaning of responsibility and bravery.

(904) 396-4425 www.theatrejax.com

Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw Not Yet Rated Opens August 2 Lawman Luke Hobbs and outcast Deckard Shaw form an unlikely alliance when a cyber-genetically enhanced villain threatens the future of humanity.

Dora and the Lost City of Gold Not Yet Rated Opens August 2 Dora, a teenage explorer, leads her friends on an adventure to save her parents and solve the mystery behind a lost city of gold.

Based on the Nickelodeon series.

The Angry Birds Movie 2 Not Yet Rated Opens August 14 The flightless birds and scheming green pigs take their beef to the next level.

Playmobil the Movie

Not Yet Rated Opens August 14 Animated feature film inspired by the

Playmobil brand toys.

SUMMER GUIDE

Registered kids can bowl two free games every day all summer. Age limit and lane times vary by location. Shoe rental not included; standard shoe rental rates apply. Discounted family passes are also available.

Jacksonville Beach Beach Bowl, 818 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach, FL, 32250 904-249-9849 Thru August 11 Daily, 11am – 4pm St. Augustine Anastasia Bowling Lanes, 3245 A1A S, St Augustine, FL, 32080 904-471-3565 Thru October 31 Daily, Open – Close Jacksonville Batt Family Fun Center, 1838 Cassat Ave, Jacksonville, FL, 32210 904-389-2360 Thru September 9 Monday, 10:00am – 9:00pm Tuesday, 10:00am – 9:00pm Wednesday, 10:00am – 9:00pm Thursday, 10:00am – 9:00pm Friday, 10:00am – 6:00pm Saturday, 10:00am – 6:00pm Sunday, 11:00am – 9:00pm Jacksonville King Pins Bowling Center, 5310 Lenox Ave. #18, Jacksonville, FL, 32205 904-394-0895 Thru September 8 Monday - Thursday, Open – Close Friday - Saturday, Open – 6pm Sunday, Not available

Palatka Putnam Lanes, 3834 Reid St, Palatka, FL, 32177 386-325-8795 Thru October 31 Daily, Open – Close Palm Coast Palm Coast Lanes, 11 Old Kings Rd. North, Palm Coast, FL, 32137 386-445-4004 Thru August 31 Monday, 9:30am – 12midnight Tuesday, 9:30am – 12midnight Wednesday, 9:30am – 5pm Thursday, 9:30am – 5pm Friday, 9:30am – 6pm Saturday, 9:30am – 6pm Sunday, 9:30am – 12midnight Brunswick The Golden Isles Strike Zone, 380 Millennium Blvd, Brunswick, GA, 31525 912-265-6600 Thru October 31 Monday, Open – 4pm Tuesday, Open – 4pm Wednesday, Open – 4pm Thursday, Open – 4pm Friday, Open – 4pm Saturday, Open – 4pm Sunday, Open – Close Yulee Edwards Bowling Center, 850822 US Hwy 17, Yulee, FL, 32097 904-225-1077 May 28 thru August 5 Monday, 10am – 2pm Tuesday, 10am – 2pm Wednesday, 5pm – 9pm Thursday, 10am – 2pm Friday, 10am – 2pm Saturday-Sunday, Not Available www.kidsbowlfree.com

JULY 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 13

SUMMER GUIDE

Sporting Events Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Chattanooga Lookouts • July 1-July 3 The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp take on the Chattanooga Lookouts. Single game tickets start at $5, with multi-game and group packages available.

July 1, 7:05pm -- VyStar Credit Union Members Buy 1 Get 1 Free // Jersey Auction-July 3rd Frozen Treat Jersey July 2, 7:05pm -- Community First Credit Union Two for Tuesday // $2 Bill Appreciation Day-the Jumbo Shrimp will be handing out this legend of the treasury to the first 500 fans through the gates. // Jersey Auction-July 3rd Frozen Treat Jersey July 3, 7:05pm -- Independence Day Fireworks // Jersey Auction-July 3rd Frozen Treat Jersey // Patriotic Cap Giveaway-Gates open 5:30pm Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville / 904-3582846 / 301 A Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxshrimp.com Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Mississippi Braves and Big Splash Day • July 11-16 The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp take on the Mississippi Braves. Single game tickets start at $5, with multi-game and group packages available.

July 11, 7:05pm -- Calling Call Captains-celebrate all captains, including Kangaroo, Morgan, Crunch, Sparrow, Hook, Kirk, Nemo, and Jack.

July 12, 7:05pm -- NAPA Family Fireworks // Red Shirt Friday-Jumbo Shrimp players and staff will wear red each Friday to support the military, and fans who wear red save $1 on a ticket at the box office or can donate the $1 to the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund. // Lion King Night July 13, 6:35pm -- Red Caps Negro League Night-Former Negro League player Clifford Layton will be recognized before the game and greet fans on the concourse. Fans can view Negro League memorabilia on the concourse and learn more local and national Negro League baseball history on the video board throughout the evening. We’ll also be giving away Red Caps road gray replica jerseys to the first 2,000 fans through the gates. Stick around after the game for a special post game jersey toss with hundreds of Red Caps home jerseys July 14, 3:05pm -- Mac & Cheese Day-there will be macaroni and cheese specials at the concession stands // Baptist Health Sunday Family Funday-families can play catch on the field plus Jumbo Shrimp players will be sign-

ing autographs. There will also be free face painting, balloon animals and visits with Dora the Explorer. Don’t forget to stick around for kids run the bases as well. // Be sure to bring food items for the food drive to benefit Feeding Northeast Florida.

July 15, 7:05pm -- VyStar Credit Union Members Buy 1 Get 1 Free // Back to where it all began-The Jumbo Shrimp are proud to celebrate the anniversary of the first ever professional baseball team. 150 years ago the now Cincinnati Reds fielded a team of paid players that traveled the country. Take it back 150 years tonight as the PA announcing will be done live from the concourse on a megaphone plus all music will be performed by a live band as well.

July 16, 12:05pm -- Big Splash Day-The Jumbo Shrimp are transforming the Baseball Grounds into a water park for Big Splash Day. We will have two inflatable water slides in the Wolfson Children’s Hospital Kids Zone, and you are encouraged to bring your water guns, water balloons, wear your bathing suit and prepare to get wet.

Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville / 904-3582846 / 301 A Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxshrimp.com Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Biloxi Shuckers • July 22-26 The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp take on the Biloxi Shuckers. Single game tickets start at $5, with multi-game and group packages available.

July 22, 7:05pm -- Breakfast in Bed NightJoin the Jumbo Shrimp for Breakfast in Bed Night. Get all your breakfast favorites: bacon, sausage, waffles and more at the All American Jax Concession stand. Plus, two lucky fans will get to watch the game from a bed while eating breakfast for dinner. // VyStar Credit Union Members Buy 1 Get 1 Free July 23, 7:05pm -- Community First Credit Union Two for Tuesday // Burt, Ernie (and Elmo)-celebrate the dynamic duo of Burt and Ernie.

July 24, 7:05pm -- Publix Corks & Forks-fans can purchase a ticket package to sample food and wine specially prepared by Chef Tony from Publix. Each night’s wine will be on sale at Publix as well // Standard Feed & Seed Canines and Crustaceans (Dog Day)-The Jumbo Shrimp and Standard Feed & Seed welcome you and your canine companion to the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville. Canines get in free as long as their human companion buys a ticket. Dog-free seating is located

JULY 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 14

in sections 110 and 111, the Wheel House Lounge and the BDO Suite Level. // National Drive Thru Day-The ballpark will be turned into the world’s largest drive thru. Keep your eyes peeled and watch for cross-traffic as cars come through each inning to grab their food from right field.

July 25, 7:05pm -- Country Western Night July 26, 7:05pm -- NAPA Family Fireworks // Red Shirt Friday-Jumbo Shrimp players and staff will wear red each Friday to support the military, and fans who wear red save $1 on a ticket at the box office or can donate the $1 to the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund. // “Florida Man” Night-Tonight, the Jumbo Shrimp will be breaking a weird Florida law every inning plus hosting Duval’s own Florida Man, Lane Pittman.

Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville / 904-3582846 / 301 A Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxshrimp.com Jacksonville Axemen vs. Tampa Mayhem July 27, 6pm The Jacksonville Axemen Rugby League team invites fans out for their 2019 season. All home games are played at Hodges Stadium, on the campus on the University of North Florida. Single game tickets start at $10.

Hodges Stadium at UNF / 904-514-8503 / 1 UNF Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / www.jaxaxe.com Jacksonville Sharks vs. Orlando Predators July 27, 7pm Arena football team the Jacksonville Sharks take on opponents at 7pm at the Veterans Memorial Arena. Single game tickets start at $10. Family packs of tickets are also available, which includes four tickets, and four hot dogs, chips, and drinks.

Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena / 904- 621-0700 / 300 A. Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxsharks.com

2,000 fans through the gates will received a replica Jacksonville Braves, Henry Aaron, number 5 baseball jersey. // VyStar Credit Union Military Appreciation Day July 28, 3:05pm -- Star Wars Night-It’s Star Wars Night at the Baseball Grounds, so come on out for face painting, balloon animals, and get to meet Star Wars characters in person. // Baptist Health Sunday Family FUNday-families can play catch on the field, kids can run the bases, there will be free face painting and balloon animals.

July 29, 7:05pm -- Wear Your Favorite Jersey Night-All fans are encouraged to come out in their favorite jersey tonight to receive $2 of your ticket at the box office. Jumbo Shrimp, Jags, Giants, Sharks, Icemen, Axemen, college high school and more.

July 30, 7:05pm -- Dreams Come True (literal) 2 for Tuesday-Join the Jumbo Shrimp just beyond the Tiki Terrace for a party celebrating a Southern League attendance record. ...2 people. The Jumbo Shrimp and Dreams Come True are partnering up for this historic night (a literal two for Tuesday!) as we welcome one Jacksonville Dreamer and a parent to be the only two people in the ballpark.

July 31, 7:05pm -- Publix Corks & Forks-fans can purchase a ticket package to sample food and wine specially prepared by Chef Tony from Publix. Each night’s wine will be on sale at Publix as well.

Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville / 904-3582846 / 301 A Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxshrimp.com Jacksonville Axemen vs. Atlanta Rhinos July 20, 6pm The Jacksonville Axemen Rugby League team invites fans out for their 2019 season. All home games are played at Hodges Stadium, on the campus on the University of North Florida. Single game tickets start at $10.

Hodges Stadium at UNF / 904-514-8503 / 1 UNF Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / www.jaxaxe.com

Jacksonville Sharks vs. Massachusetts Pirates • July 20, 7pm Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp vs. Pensacola Arena football team the Jacksonville Sharks Blue Wahoos • July 27-31 take on opponents at 7pm at the Veterans The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp take on the Memorial Arena. Single game tickets start at Pensacola Blue Wahoos. Single game tickets $10. Family packs of tickets are also availstart at $5, with multi-game and group packable, which includes four tickets, and four hot ages available. dogs, chips, and drinks.

July 27, 6:35pm -- Happy 85th Hammerin’ Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena / Hank-The Jumbo Shrimp and Swisher Interna- 904- 621-0700 / 300 A. Philip Randolph Blvd, tional are proud to celebrate the 85th birthday Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxsharks.com of The People’s Home Run Champion. The first

SUMMER GUIDE

Theatre & Arts Disney’s The Little Mermaid at Alhambra Theatre & Dining • Thru July 28 The Alhambra Theatre and Dining presents the musical The Little Mermaid, based on the story

by Hans Christian Andersen and the 1989 Disney movie. Tickets start at $38, and can be purchased online or by calling the box office.

There are evening performances, as well as matinees; no shows on Mondays. The show runs thru July 28. Alhambra Theatre & Dining / 904-641-1212 / 12000 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.alhambrajax.com

are free and attendees should bring lounge chairs for seating. Picnic dinners are popular, but alcoholic beverages are prohibited in the Plaza. Plaza de la Constitución / 904-8251004 / King Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.citystaug.com

Cummer Free Summer Fridays Fridays, July 5, 12, 19, 26, 4pm to 9pm The Cummer Museum of Arts & Gardens will offer free admission to all guests through September 6, as part of its Summer Fridays program. The event will feature food, drinks, art First Wednesday Art Walk and an abundance of entertainment options.

July 3, 5pm to 9pm Guests can roam the permanent collection of Produced by Downtown Vision, Inc. (DVI), Art exhibits and gardens while listening to live Walk is on the first Wednesday of every month music or enjoy the lawn games set up around from 5pm to 9pm, rain or shine. More than the grounds. Each Summer Friday will have a 60 Art Walk venues stretch across Downtown theme which highlights the art and entertainJacksonville’s core and include Hemming Park, ment of a specific country or region. galleries, museums, cultural and educational July 5: Freedom Friday: Food, Fun, and venues, restaurants and bars, Downtown Festivities businesses and more. The First Wednesday July 12: Summer in the City: Art Walk is a great way to meet fellow artists, New York, New York buy and appreciate their work, and be part of July 19: Sunshine State: the rapidly growing art scene in Jacksonville, Flora, Fauna and Fun Florida. Visit website below for monthly July 26: Soulful Summer themes, Art Walk maps, participating vendors, Celebration and more. July 3, Red, White and Blues Cummer Museum of Art Downtown Jacksonville / 117 W Duval St., and Gardens / 904-356-6857 / 829 Riverside Jacksonville, FL 32202 / Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.jacksonvilleartwalk.com www.cummermuseum.org Music by the Sea Concert Series Wednesdays, July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 7pm to 9pm This free family-friendly concert series features a different band each week. The series offers a wide variety of music including jazz, blues, classic rock, pop, reggae, disco, and country. In addition to the music each week one of the community’s local eateries serve an optional dinner priced at $10 or less. Dinner service begins at 6pm with the free concert starting at 7pm. St Johns County Pier Park / 350 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080 / www.sabca.org Concerts in the Plaza Thursdays, July 4, 11, 18, 25, 7pm to 9pm Concerts in the Plaza, St. Augustine’s summer-long music series, returns for its 29th season serving up some of the best musical entertainment in Northeast Florida. The series includes 14 weeks of two-hour concerts held every Thursday in the Gazebo in the Plaza de la Constitución starting at 7pm. All concerts

City of Jacksonville Beach Summer Jazz Concert Series July 7, 5pm to 9pm The City of Jacksonville Beach is proud to present the Annual Summer Jazz Series. The concert will take place at the Sea Walk Pavilion. Admission is free and open to the public.

Bring your blankets or lawn chairs. Be sure to arrive early for seating.

Sea Walk Pavilion / 904-247-6100 / 11 1st Street North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / www.jacksonvillebeach.org Annie the Musical July 19, 20, 26, 27, 7:30pm to 10pm July 21, 28, 2pm to 4:30pm Annie the Musical will be on stage at the College of Coastal Georgia, Camden Campus for two weekends only. Tickets are available online.

The College of Coastal Georgia - Camden Campus / 912-510-9700 / 8001 Lakes Blvd, Kingsland, GA 31548 / www.stmaryschildrenstheatre.com

A different way of teaching. A better way of learning.

Grades middle through high school Low student to teacher ratio Standard and Honors curriculum Multi-sensory instruction Wetlands trials and outdoor classrooms McKay, Gardiner, Hope and Florida Tax Credit Scholarship participant Accredited by the Florida Council of Independent Schools

To learn more visit our website or call greenwoodjax.org 904-726-5000

Now enrolling students for 2019-2020 school year. Call for a campus tour.

Disney’s Newsies: FSCJ’s High School Summer Musical Theatre Experience July 19, 20, 26, 27, 7:30pm; July 21, 28, 2pm The Summer Musical Theatre Experience (SMTE) provides the opportunity for local area high school students to work hands-on with some of the highest recognized local theatre professionals at the FSCJ Nathan H. Wilson Center for the Arts. There will be six performances, from July 19-28. Tickets range from $20 to $25 and are available online or by phone. This summer’s performance is Disney’s Newsies. FSCJ Nathan H. Wilson Center for the Arts / 904-646-2222 / 11901 Beach Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.fscjartistseries.org Shrek the Musical July 19 - August 11 Players by the Sea presents Shrek the Musical on the Main Stage. General admission tickets are $28, and senior/student/military are $25.

Thursday nights are student nights, with $14 ticket at the door with a valid I.D. The show runs through August 11.

Players by the Sea Theatre / 904-249-0289 / 106 6th Street North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / www.playersbythesea.org

$20.00 value

Offer expires 8/1/19. No cash value.

JULY 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 15

SUMMER GUIDE

Sleepover Secrets

E

veryone knows that a sleepover rarely involves much sleeping, so be prepared with lots of games, snacks and activities.

Age Make sure your child is old enough to handle a slumber party before agreeing to host one.

Sleepovers are most popular for kids eight to 14. If your child is younger than eight, she and her friends may not be ready to spend the night away from home. One mom whose first-grader desperately wanted a sleepover hosted a pajama party instead; all the guests came in their PJs, played games, and were picked up by 8 p.m.! When you do decide that your child is ready, keep the guest list short at your first slumber party so the guests don’t get overwhelmed. Two or three guests are enough the first time; sleepover veterans can handle more.

Timing It’s best to have parents drop guests off late in the day. If kids spend too much time together, they may start bickering. While many slumber

parties include dinner, you can certainly ask guests to show up for dessert instead. Be sure also to arrange a specific pick-up time the next morning to avoid having parents drop in throughout the day.

Activities Although most preteens will keep themselves entertained, it’s a good idea to plan a few activities. Some parents like to do one major activity outside the home such as going to the movies, bowling or swimming. Not only does this add structure to the event, it should also make guests tired enough that they actually sleep!

Crafts Crafts aren’t a requirement, but you can certainly incorporate them if your child and his friends enjoy making things. Consider buying inexpensive pillow cases and letting the kids decorate them with fabric pens for a super slumber souvenir. (Slip a piece of cardboard inside when decorating to keep the ink from seeping through to the other side.)

JULY 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 16

Food Junk food at slumber parties is a time-honored tradition, but don’t go overboard. It’s fine to have some chips, and birthday cake is a must but supplement these with fruits or a veggie platter so you don’t end up with a party full of tummy aches. Offer bottled water or juice instead of soda with caffeine or you’ll never get to sleep. Slumber party guests are old enough to make their own food so consider planning a kitchen activity. Makeyour-own-bars (pizza, tacos, sundaes) work well for this age group.

Bedtime When should you turn the lights out? It depends on the ages of the guests, of course.

Younger children should probably be in their sleeping bags by 10 p.m., older ones by midnight. Some parents have been known to change all the clocks in the house to give kids the illicit thrill of staying up late (while still managing to give everyone a decent night’s sleep). Avoid squabbles about who sleeps next to whom by suggesting the guests arrange their sleeping bags in a starburst pattern with heads in the middle. It’s a good idea to offer a

calming activity as a transition to bedtime.

Although some children will want to tell scary stories, a good movie is probably a better choice. If some guests are ready to go to sleep before others, consider putting them in a guest room or adjacent space where you can dim the lights. If this is a first sleepover, be prepared for a guest who wants to go home. If she has never spent the night away from her parents, the fun of a slumber party may wear thin by bedtime. Be certain you have a way to reach all the parents in case this happens.

Before you call the parents, however, try to address the guest’s fears. A child who’s afraid of the dark may be comforted by a dim night light.

Rules If you’re clear about the rules (no leaving the house, no prank calls, no unsupervised cooking) from the outset, you should be able to remain behind the scenes (there if needed, but not hovering). j PBSparents.org

SUMMER GUIDE

Which Way to the Beach - and Healthy Snacks!

H

ere in the Sunshine state we are so fortunate to have one of nature’s grandest displays right in our own back yard.

That’s right - I’m talking about the beach! We Floridians love the beach, and rightly so.

However, packing food for a picnic in the park versus packing food for a beach trip require a different set of rules. Beaches tend to be breezy and sandy, so the goal is to not only pack healthy, but with convenience in mind.

That doesn’t mean we don’t enjoy having the occasional peanut butter and jelly sandwich at the beach. But for kids, depending on their age, you can afford to be a bit more creative in what you pack and still make it healthy and cost-saving at the same time.

Wraps. Some kids will eat anything rolled up in a tortilla just by the novelty of the wrap itself. Wraps can be better choices for the beach because they protect whatever filling you have inside and can be eaten with one hand (you never have more than one clean hand at a time at the beach). Consider healthy fillings like turkey and low-fat cheese. Bacon, lettuce and tomato (made with the healthier version of turkey bacon) is always a favorite, or try a vegetarian version made with humus and slices of tomato, peppers and onions.

Fruit. Whole fruit has the natural protection from the peel that can easily be washed off if it gets sandy, and you don’t risk getting sand into it like you would if you were opening and closing a container of cut-up fruit. However, smaller children prefer fruit-to-go, in other words, cut-up fruits which they can sink their little (rinsed) hands into! Or, if you prepare the night before, make fruit kabobs with your kids’ favorite fruits (melons, pineapple, grapes and strawberries work great) so that fingers don’t have to handle the fruit at all.

Couscous or pasta salad. Pasta salad made with a little oil and vinegar dressing (not

mayonnaise-based dressings) and couscous salads tend to hold up well in the heat. Pack in plastic ware and keep next to frozen water bottles until ready to use. Couscous salads work great in a wrap, too!

Lettuce wraps. These are a great idea for the families that love salad, but have no realistic way to bundle it up for the beach. Take an oversized leaf of iceberg lettuce and fill with your favorite meats or cheeses, and some veggies. If you prefer, add a little salad dressing to hold everything together and give it a roll. Finish by wrapping in foil or wax paper, so you can just peel it back and eat.

Skewers. These are great if you grilled the night before. Don’t throw out that left-over meat and vegetables! Save and cut up for skewers the next day. They’re low maintenance and do not require further cutting or slicing once you are at the beach, and leave very little clean up.

Bottled water. Place water bottles in freezer for several hours (or overnight) before going to the beach so that they will stay colder longer.

Frozen water bottles can act as additional freezer packs and help keep meats/cheeses at a safe temperature. You will need extra freezer packs for when the water bottles are used up.

Of course, don’t forget the whole grain crackers, pretzels, string cheese and raw veggies that are always a good idea for quick and sustainable energy during the day. Portion snacks in plastic baggies the night before to make packing in the morning a breeze.

Be creative and be safe this summer!!

j

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

GET THE FAMILY 4-PACK 4 TICKETS FOR JUST $159* CALL THE BOX OFFICE TODAY FOR DETAILS. *Does not include tax and gratuity. Sunday-Thursday only. Restrictions apply.

“When the sun is shining I can do anything; no mountain is too high, no trouble too difficult to overcome.”

– Wilma Rudolph

(904) 641-1212

alhambrajax.com JULY 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 17

SUMMER GUIDE

Hands On Activities Michael’s Camp Creativity July 1, 3, 5, 8, 10, 12, 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26 This summer, Michael’s Stores hosts Camp Creativity, where kids 3 and up can participate in weekly themed projects. Sign up in advance; cost is $3 for each 30 minute session.

Held Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, from 10am to 12noon. A different project will be featured each day. A parent or guardian must remain on site.

Area Michael’s Stores / www.michaels.com Mommy & Me Paint Night Thursdays, July 4, 11, 18, 25, 5pm to 8pm Every Thursday is Mommy & Me Night at Heavenly GraphX Creative Studio. Participants can paint two signs for $45, one big sign and one small sign. Each additional small sign is $10.

Heavenly GraphX Creative Studio / 904-6168932 / 795 S 6th Street, Macclenny, FL 32063 / www.heavenlygraphx.com Home Depot Kids Workshop July 6, 9am to 12noon

a hand built project. All projects will take Big & Little Chef: Storytime Snacks 1-2 weeks to dry and be fired before you can July 20, 10am return to paint. Cost is $35 per participant.

July 29, 6pm Doing Dishes Pottery Studio / Big Chef, Little Chef series classes are deOffered the first Saturday of each month bewww.doingdishes.com signed specifically for a guardian/parent, older tween 9am and 12noon. All kids get to keep sibling (18 or older), etc. paired with a young their craft, receive a free certificate of achieve- San Jose Location / 904-730-3729 / 5619 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville FL 32207 chef. Each pair will work together (along with ment, a Workshop Apron, and a commemorathe rest of the students) to create recipes that tive pin while supplies last. Kids can build their Saint Johns Location 904-824-7774 / 2220 CR-210 W Suite 309, Saint Johns, FL 32259 are appropriate for adults and kids alike. Big project, and finish it with paint. Free for kids 5 Chef must be 18 or older, and the Little Chef to 12. This month’s project is a tow truck.

Colorful Cursive for Kids age range should be 5–12 years old. The Area Home Depot Stores / July 20, 2:30pm to 4pm menu features Green Eggs and Ham English www.homedepot.com Kids ages 10 and up are invited for a Colorful Muffin Sandwiches, Armadilly Texas-Style Cursive writing workshop. Create cursive Chili, Spaghetti with a Chance of Meatballs, Color Me Mine Summer Workshops lettering with easy to follow steps.

Colorful, fun Giant Peach Cobbler, and Super Fudgy Ice July 8, 15, 29, 11am to 2pm; July 10, 17, 24, gel pens will be supplied that shimmer, sparCream Sundaes. Cost is $75 for each parent/ 1pm to 4pm kle and glitter in the light.

Cost is $35/child. child combo.

Color Me Mine host several summer workAtlantic Beach Arts Market / 904-372-7442 / Publix Aprons Cooking School / 904-262-4187 shops for ages 6 and up. Snacks will be / 10500 San Jose Blvd Ste 36, Jacksonville, FL provided. Cost is $45/day. Be sure to sign up 1805 Mayport Rd, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 / www.atlanticbeachartsmarket.com 32257 / www.publix.com in advance.

Color Me Mine / 904-338-9333 / 10300 Southside Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32256 / www.jacksonville.colormemine.com “Summer is the annual permission slip to be lazy. To do Mud Mondays July 8, 15, 22, 9am to 4pm Doing Dishes hosts Mud Mondays. Ages 7 to 15 will create a wheel thrown pot along with

JULY 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 18

nothing and have it count for something. To lie in the grass and count the stars. To sit on a branch and study the clouds.”

– Regina Brett

TRAVEL

Chicago, One of America’s Scalloping in Florida Best Family Vacation Spots

W

hether you’re looking for a place to take the kids this summer or in the beginning stages of planning a family vacation, Chicago is a great city to consider!

With loads of family friendly activities, just a two hour direct flight from Jacksonville to Chicago, and cooler, much less humid weather, Chicago is a prime vacation spot.

S

ummer in Florida means no school, popsicles, pool time, and beach days, but Soldier Field. Right on Lake Michigan, you it also means the opening of scallop season. either have great views of the lake or of the Taking a vacation to find Florida Bay Scallops beautiful architecture of the downtown skyline. is a rewarding and memorable trip for all ages.

Every time the Bears score a point everyone Finding scallops is like an underwater Easter sings their fight song: ‘Bear Down, Chicago Egg Hunt, so the kids are sure to love it!

Bears’, which has been passed down since it was written in 1941. Pre-game Luckily, you won’t have to drive far to find

About thirty miles north of the city in the Over the years, Chicago has made huge village of Glencoe is the stunning Chicago investments in their city for tourism and Botanic Gardens. With hands on family culture. They made a peninsula out into Lake activities, seasonal events, and outdoor dining, Michigan and on it put the Field Museum, the this 385 acres of landscape gardens is like a Shedd Aquarium, and the Adler Planetarium. mini paradise. This is a wonderful full day All three are first rate facilities with so much to adventure for families! experience, it would be difficult to do in one day. Spread this out over two days and while Lake Michigan is gorgeous and there are you’re there, go to the Museum of Science and several ways to enjoy it. You can take a cruise Industry which is about five miles down the on a speed boat, a huge multi masked same road. sailboat, or a double-decker viewing boat. All can be scheduled from the tourist destination Another Chicago destination both kids and “the Navy Pier”. While you’re on the Pier, you adults enjoy is the Lincoln Park Zoo. Open year can ride the ferris wheel or a new 200,000 round and with free admission, founded in square-foot cultural family pavilion that 1868 this is one of the oldest and best zoos in opened in June will offer 250 free programs North America. Daily activities, such as the this year, such as outdoor jazz concerts and penguin encounter, and seeing animals like children’s arts and crafts programming. the Allen’s Swamp Monkey, Antelope, Camels and red kangaroos will make your visit a Chicago is also a great place to ride bikes! memorable one!

They have a bike and walking path that runs over 20 miles right along Lake Michigan with For sports fans, there are all kinds of profesbeaches and parks all along the way. There sional teams playing depending on what time are bike rental companies near the Navy Pier of year you go: baseball, football, basketball, with sizes to fit everyone. You can rent by the and more! Most unique for us Floridians is hour, half day or for the whole day and probably their hockey team, the Chicago helmets are available.

Blackhawks. A family favorite is going to a Cubs baseball game. It’s like stepping back in If biking isn’t your thing, maybe segway tours time - the area and stadium are just about the are. You can explore Chicago using one of same as when it opened a hundred years ago. these motorized two wheelers and they offer a Tours of Wrigley Field are available on non unique way to experience the sights of the city. game days. On game days, families can play on the open field next to the ball park.

With so many recreational activities, restaurants, sports teams, and culture, Chicago The Bears football team plays at Soldier Field; makes one of the best vacation spots in the stadium has been renovated on the inside America. j to be one of the most modern stadiums in the Rick Carlson NFL, yet it maintains the facade of the old

“I love how summer just wraps its arms around you like a warm blanket.”

– Kellie Elmore

quaint towns whose primary business is scalloping and fishing. Just a few hours west of here, on the Florida Gulf Coast, you will find small towns including Keaton Beach, Steinhatchee, Port St. Joe, Crystal River, and Homosassa. These towns are very family-friendly, and they welcome newbies along with the seasoned scallopers. You can find lodging, often in the form of bed and breakfasts or small, unique fishing shacks, but call early to reserve your rooms, as spots fill up months in advance.

Unless using a charter boat, teens 16 and older, and adults will need to purchase a Florida saltwater fishing license for approximately $17 each. This can be done online, in various locations here in Jacksonville, or even in the marina store where you rent your boat.

Other equipment to help you in your underwater hunt includes a mask, snorkel, and fins.

You will also want to bring a mesh bag to collect your scallops in. Additionally, you are required to display a diver down flag, to let other boaters in the area know that you are in the water. Kids can certainly just use goggles, and they may want to have some type of float, such as a pool noodle.

Once on the water, you want to look for the tall sea grass that the scallops like to live in, and typically three to four feet of water is ideal.

You will see the scallops deep down in the grass, and they can also see you, with their dozens of bright, blue eyes! Scallops can swim, and may make a quick burst for freedom when they see you. They also pinch by quickly shutting shells, so be sure to grab them from the bottom of their shell! Back on the boat, put your scallops on ice, which will help them open back up for easier cleaning later. Cleaning them yourself is easy with a little practice (and a few helpful YouTube videos!). Or, there are plenty of locals who will charge a nominal fee and clean them for you.

Also, area restaurants will often offer to cook your catch, so you don’t have to wait until you get home to enjoy them.

Different counties throughout the Gulf start and end their scallop season on different dates. These dates also vary from year to year, so be sure to visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife website at myfwc.com before you book your trip. Additionally, dates book quickly for both lodging and boat rentals. Early planning is key!

To get to the scallop grounds, you will want to use a boat. Some areas do allow scalloping from the beach, but your trip will be much more productive and enjoyable when you take a boat out. You can bring your own boat, or rent one from the area marinas. Charter captains are also available to take you out.

Take advantage of having such an amazing family vacation spot so close to home. Your kids will love hunting for scallops, and you will love making lasting memories. Taking a trip to Florida’s Gulf Coast for scalloping will leave you hungry for more! j Angie King

JULY 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 19

INFANT & TODDLER

Things to Do Infant & Toddler

Weekly Yoga at Belly Bean Maternity July 5, 12, 19, 26, 9am to 10am Belly Bean Maternity and Beyond hosts a weekly yoga class. Courtney is a Certified and Registered Yoga Alliance Instructor and has designed this yoga class to be the perfect combination to relax the mind, stretch tight muscles, and invigorate the spirit. Each pose done in this class will be clearly demonstrated and explained; no more wondering if you are “doing it right”. Safety and correct form is the number one priority, which makes this a great class for beginners.

Purchase online for a discounted rate, or pay $15 dollars at the door the morning of.

Belly Bean Maternity & Beyond / 904-8491667 / 463646 Florida 200, Suite #1, Yulee, FL 32097 / www.bellybeanmaternity.com Baby 101 - Let’s Talk Baby July 6, 4pm to 6pm Orange Park Medical Center hosts a parent preparedness class that will enhance your knowledge and understanding of the newest member of your family. The event is free, but please register so they know how many to expect. Orange Park Medical Center / 904639-8500 / 2001 Kingsley Ave, Orange Park, FL 32073 / www.orangeparkmedical.com Little Learners at MOSH July 10, 9:30am to 11:30am Bring your little ones to MOSH on the second Wednesday of every month for exclusive programming designed for learning and development and watch them grow. These programs encompass various learning styles and activities for preschool aged children that help to enhance their skills and dexterity. All activities are designed to encourage caregivers to engage their little ones in conversations and to work with them through each station.

Please note that Little Learners encourages child/caregiver interaction and requires one registered adult per two children. Due to the popularity of these events, we highly recommend you register in advance to guarantee your place. Once online availability is gone, no further tickets will be sold at the door. (Caregivers must register themselves and their children for each month’s program). Admission is $6/person for ages 3 and up. The July class will be Uh-Oh Dino: Jurassic MOSH. Museum of Science and History / 904-3966674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL

32207 / www.themosh.org The Best Summer: Babytime July 11, 18, 25, 10:15am to 10:45am Babytime is a special lap sit program for babies 0-18months. Gather around the Very Hungry Caterpillar carpet in the Randolph Caldecott Children’s Room at Main Library Thursday mornings at 10:15am. Mr. Andy and Ms. Marcia will share songs, finger plays, action rhymes, puppets and more. St. Johns County Public Library, Main Branch / 904827-6940 / 1960 N. Ponce De Leon Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.sjcpls.org Preschool Storytime July 11 and 25, 10:30am Children and caregivers are invited to get ready for school and to enjoy singing, dancing, stories, and more to boost early literacy and a love of libraries. The suggested target age is active walkers through 5 years, but all ages are welcome. Each class is 30 minutes long with a 15-minute “Stay and Play.”

St. Johns County Public Library, Ponte Vedra Beach Branch / 904-827-6950 / 101 Library Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www.sjcpls.org Baby and Me Lapsit July 11 and 25, 11:30am Babies and caregivers are invited to special Lapsit classes to encourage a love of reading between caregiver and baby through singing, action rhymes, and more. The suggested target age for these classes is infants up through pre-walkers. For safety purposes, children who are active walkers and families with older children are encouraged to attend the Preschool Storytime Class.

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

covers a seat for the breastfeeding parent and a partner, caregiver or doula, 3 instructional hours, a folder with class handouts, and a helpful e-document containing links to the evidence-based best practice information, instructional videos and research articles presented in class. Belly Bean Maternity / 904849-1667 / 463646 SR-200 unit #1, Yulee, FL 32097 / www.communitylactation.com Tag: Moon Pies, Oh My! July 17, 9am to 11am Tag! You’re an Astronaut! Travel to the moon and beyond with storyteller and artist Debra Weller. Explore the universe through story and song and discover the mysteries of the moon through hands-on STEAM activities. Create and enjoy your own moon pie as you celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Apollo 11 Moon Landing. For ages 3 to 5. Tickets are $15 each. Tag Children’s Museum of St. Augustine / 904-647-1757 / 76 Dockside Drive Suite 105, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.tagmuseum.org Babywearing 101 at Grow Family July 17, 1pm to 2pm Grow Family hosts Babywearing 101. Learn about the different kind of baby carriers, how to use them, and why they might benefit you.

You’ll be able to check out the carriers and get assistance with your own. Cost is $25 for non-members and free for members.

Grow Family / 904-310-4190 / 4070 Herschel Street, Jacksonville, FL 32210 / www.growhappyfamily.com

Art For Tots at the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens • July 27, 10:30am to 12noon The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens hosts Art For Tots. This class is for children 24-36 months and an accompanying adult.

The program is designed to help develop a child’s sensory and motor skills through art, movement, music, and storytelling and takes place in the galleries, garden, and studios.

Belly Bean Maternity Breastfeeding Class Entry is through Art Connections. Class size is July 14, 9am to 12noon limited. For further information, please email International Board Certified Lactation education@cummermuseum.org or call 904Consultant Amy Johnston delivers an evi355-0630. Cost is $10 per pair for members, dence-based breastfeeding class curriculum. and $15 per pair for non-members. RegistraThis 3 hour class covers everything families tion is required. This month’s program will be need to know to get breastfeeding off to the Summer Splash - ‘French Moderns’. best start. Topics will include what to expect Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens / 904in the first hours after birth, how to read your newborn’s behavior, newborn and family sleep, 355-0630 / 829 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.cummermuseum.org latch and positioning techniques and in-class practice, and more. Please bring a stuffed Visit Jax4Kids.com for a complete list animal to class for practice. Seats must be Infant & Toddler Events. reserved in advance. The $50 class tuition

JULY 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 20

NOW ENROLLING 6 WEEKS TO VPK!

Open Monday – Friday 6:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Ages 6 weeks – 5 years ■ ■ ■ ■

KidsReports Parent Portal Part Time Care and Free VPK ZONO Sanitizing Before & After School Age Care at Ponte Vedra location

$200 OFF Coupon

Receive $25.00 off a week for 8 weeks New full time enrollments only! Two week notice voids offer.

One coupon per family. Multiple discounts not allowed.

Must present coupon when enrolling. Expires 7/31/19.

Call today for a tour!

Intracoastal 904-641-5273

11761 Beach Blvd. # 13 Lic #C04DU370

Southside 904-997-1971

8595 Beach Blvd. # 201 Lic #C04DU369

Ponte Vedra 904-551-2614

11300 US HWY 1 North

Gate Parkway 904-538-0900

Lic #C07SJ0127

11526 Lake Meade Ave #105 Lic #C04DU1135

Arlington 904-807-9191

3033 Monument Road #21 Lic #C04DU0806

Quality Preschool and Childcare www.TsLearningCenter.com

JULY 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 21

TEENS

Things to Do

Jacksonville Public Library, West Branch / 904-693-1448 / 1425 Chaffee Road South, Jacksonville, FL 32221 / www.jaxpubliclibrary.org

Teen Summer Challenge at Planet Fitness Thru September 1 Planet Fitness is encouraging teens to get off the couch and into the gym this summer by offering free gym access and classes specifically geared towards teens. The “Teen Summer Challenge” allows 15 to 18 year-olds to work out for free through September 1. During the teen’s first visit, they must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to sign a Planet Fitness Gym Waiver. Once they have signed up, they will just have to check in at the front desk every time they arrive. Planet Fitness is also giving away scholarship money this summer.

A total of $30,500 is available. Area Planet Fitness Locations / www.planetfitness.com

Teen Craft Hour • July 17, 6pm Youth ages 11-18 are invited to get crafty with friends at the Library for free. All materials are provided and no registration is required. St. Johns County Public Library, Ponte Vedra Beach Branch / 904-827-6950 / 101 Library Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www.sjcpls.org

Teens Events

2019 Teen Wellness Retreat July 22-24, 9am to 4pm Growing up is hard and with so many choices, pressures, and expectations it is normal to feel anxious. The Teen Wellness Retreat will help you focus on your own wellbeing, gain interpersonal skills, and provide hands-on experiences to lower your stress and enjoy life. The retreat will include healthy cooking, physical activity, team building, field trips, and more. A 4-H Alien Makeup • July 15, 2pm to 3pm Health Form must be filled out and turned in Come learn how to do special effects makewithin a week of registration. The retreat is up. Young artists will learn how to transform themselves into aliens that represent their own open to pre-teens and teens 11-18 years old.

4-H and non 4-H members are welcome. Fee unique style and personality. This program is is $75 and includes a t-shirt. Please bring a for teens ages 12-17. Free.

JULY 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 22

bag lunch each day. Clay County Extension / 904-284-6355 / 2463 Florida 16, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 / sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu Child & Babysitting Safety Certification Course • July 26, 9:30am to 2:30pm This course is for youth ages 11-16 who already babysit, will start sometime in the future, or who simply want to learn how to safely stay home alone or with younger siblings. Participants will learn how to supervise children and infants, perform basic child care-skills such as diapering and feeding, handle bedtime and discipline issues, identify safety hazards and prevent injuries, care for common injuries and emergencies such as choking, burns, cuts and bee stings, communicate effectively with parents, find and interview for babysitting jobs, and develop leadership skills. This is a 5 hour course and upon successful completion, students will receive official certification cards from the American Safety and Health Institute.

Cost is $50.

Night Lite Pediatrics Urgent Care / 904-4346032 / 10325 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www.safetyfirstjacksonville.com Apply in July – Jacksonville

July 27, 9am to 12noon or 11am to 2pm Apply in July is an excellent opportunity to learn more about UNF. Take time to learn more about your academic area of interest, hear from current students and meet staff from the Office of Admissions. To receive an admissions decision on-the-spot, please check with the Office of Admissions to make sure the appropriate documents are on file prior to the Apply in July, by emailing admissions@unf.edu, or calling 904-620-2420. Free, but please register online in advance.

UNF Hicks Hall / 904-620-2420 / 1 UNF Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / www.unf.edu Teen 80s Night July 30, 6pm to 7:15pm Teens ages 11-18 will celebrate the 80s with crafts, an interactive snack, and a special TV viewing. Themed dress is very strongly encouraged. Registration is required by calling 904-827-6900. Free.

St. Johns County Public Library, Southeast Branch / 904-827-6900 / 6670 US 1 South, St. Augustine, FL 32086 / www.sjcpls.org

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

THINGS TO DO Expedition Dinosaur at MOSH Thru September 2 Jax4Kids.com proudly sponsors Expedition Dinosaur at MOSH. Expedition Dinosaur is a traveling exhibition that celebrates and explores the fascinating world of dinosaurs and the hunt for their fossils in the early 20th Century. Expedition Dinosaur features large scale Animatronic Dinosaurs as well as many special exhibits. The exhibit runs through September 2.

MOSH / 904-396-6674 / 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www.themosh.org 4th Annual Freedom Fest Car, Bike and Truck Show • July 6, 3pm to 7pm All ages are invited to the JCPenny Parking Lot on July 6th for the 4th Annual Freedom Fest Car Show. Roll in begins at 3pm. The show will be from 4pm - 7pm with awards at 6:30pm. This event is designed to shed light on the heroes that we all see on a day to day basis. . All armed forces members, first responders, and police officers get 50% off of admission to this event.

Children under 12 are free. Tickets are $5 to $10 and can be purchased in advance.

Orange Park Mall / 901-503-6675 / 1910 Wells Road, Orange Park, FL 32073 / www.orangeparkmall.com JA Day of the Girl • July 12, 9am to 3pm Day Of The Girl will provide girls with a holistic, girl-centered approach to concepts such as leadership, budgeting & saving, entrepreneurship, and work-readiness. Each girl will participate in classroom-sized workshops and a Career Fair that will encourage and inspire them to dream big and reach their full potential.

Lunch, a healthy snack and all materials will be provided at no cost. All girls grades 3-12 are welcome to attend. Slots are first come, first serve. Register in advance.

John A. Delaney Student Union / 904-398-9944 x225 / 1 South UNF Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / www.juniorachievement.org Nickelodeon’s JoJo Siwa “D.R.E.A.M. The Tour” • July 13, 7pm Nickelodeon superstar JoJo Siwa will be at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre for one show only.

Tickets range from $44 to $74 and are available online. Gates open at 5:30pm, and the show begins at 7pm.

The St. Augustine Amphitheatre / 904-209-0367 / 1340C A1A South, St. Augustine, FL 32080 / www.staugamphitheatre.com 39th Annual Greater Jacksonville Kingfish Tournament • July 15-20 The 39th Annual Greater Jacksonville Kingfish Tournament takes place July 15 – 20, 2019 at Jim King Park & Boat Ramp at Sister Creek. In addition to the tournament, there will be a food festival, liars’ tent, live entertainment, exhibitors,

boat display and the Boatique. Junior Anglers can enter for $10 with adult entry. New in 2019, they are accepting Junior Angler entries, at $50 per Junior, and you do not need to be registered in the General Tournament. This event is specially designed to accommodate the future anglers under the age of 16 years. There will also be a Junior Angler Dock Tournament for $10 entry.

Jim King Park & Boat Ramp / 904-251-3011 / 8203 Heckscher Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32226 / www.kingfishtournament.com Wild Wonders • July 18, 2pm and 4pm Soar to new heights by learning about animals and how you can care for them. Elementary-school children and their caregivers are invited to join Michael Rossi of Wild Wonders to learn about animal friends. The second presentation is a repeat of the first. Free.

St. Johns County Public Library, Ponte Vedra Beach Branch / 904-827-6950 / 101 Library Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www.sjcpls.org Jurassic Quest • July 19, 3pm to 8pm; July 20-21, 9am to 8pm Jurassic Quest features a Dinosaur Adventure for the whole family. The main dinosaur exhibit features over 80 true-to-life size dinosaurs, including a life-size T-rex, Spinosaurus, Triceratops and Giginotosaurus. Guests will walk through the Cretaceous period, the Jurassic Period and The Triassic period and experience for themselves what it was like to be among living, breathing dinosaurs. Visitors can interact with these huge creatures, learn about them, and even ride a few. It features realistic scenes, enormous dinosaurs, baby dinosaurs and activities for kids of all ages. There are dinosaur themed rides including inflatable mazes, huge slides, multitrack Dino Bungee Pull, Dinosaur Petting Zoo, crafts, Dino Science stations, fossil areas, and more. Tickets are $22 for kids 2 to 12, $20 for seniors 65 and up, and $22 for adults 13 to 64. Kids VIP tickets are available for $36. There are additional premium attractions that are available for an additional price. Active Duty Police, Firefighters, Paramedics as well as Active and In-Active Military Personnel, their spouses and kids save $2 on each ticket. Must present ID at event. Kids under 2 are free.

Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center / 1000 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.jurassicquest.com 2019 Homeschool Home Education Expo July 19, 10am to 7pm; July 20, 9am to 4pm Local homeschool organization, H.E.R.I, hosts their annual expo. The expo is not just for homeschool families; all families are invited to attend. There will be workshops, exhibitors, raffles, and a STEM Fair. Topics for the workshops include Homeschooling 101 (How

to Homeschool in Florida according to Florida’s law), Homeschooling 101 in Spanish, Florida Requirement for an Annual Homeschool Portfolio and Record Keeping, Florida Requirements for Year End Evaluations, Homeschooling Through Highschool, Piecing Together the High School Puzzle with Joanne Mastronicola, and more. Admission purchased at the door is $25/family for HERI members and $30/family for non-members, with discounts for pre-registration. The STEM Fair is open to all students. Registration is $7. Judging will be on Saturday, from 2pm to 4pm.

HERI is a non-profit organization run by volunteers and serving over 400 families in the northeast Florida region. Essentially, they are a support group of other smaller support groups, home-based private schools and individuals, and as such offer unlimited opportunities for serving and encouraging one another.

Evangel Temple / 904-783-8197 / 5755 Ramona Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32205 / www.homeschool-life.com Tech Fair at Jacksonville Main Library July 20, 10am to 2pm Ages 8 - 17, put your tech skills to the test at the Main Library. There will be an Apollo 11 exhibit, a VR station, a life-size programmable R2-D2 robot, green screen antics, 3-D printing activities, Ozobot and Sphero robot races, LEGOs, and more. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn about coding, robotics, and 3-D design, all in our MakerSpace. Free.

Jacksonville Public Library, Main Branch / 904630-2665 / 303 N Laura Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jaxpubliclibrary.org Skyway Saturdays July 20, 12noon to 10pm Join Friends of Hemming Park and area Downtown partners for a full day of family fun in the heart of Jacksonville. The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) will operate the Skyway one Saturday each month to provide free rides and convenient parking. Start on the south bank with a visit to Museum of Science & History; hop on the Skyway for a trip across the St. Johns River to attend events and participate in activities in Hemming Park, at MOCA Jacksonville, at Jacksonville Public Library and Sweet Pete’s Candy. Shop at Wolf And Cub and Chamblin’s Uptown and finish the evening at a Hemming Park signature event with free concerts, food trucks and more.

Hemming Park / 904-515-5098 / 135 W Monroe Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.hemmingpark.org Summer Luau With Moana July 20, 4pm to 8pm Chick-fil-A Wells Road hosts a Summer Luau.

Come celebrate summer with special guest,

Moana. Also, enjoy luau games, sing-a-long with DJ Jim, balloon art, inflatables, and more.

Families are encouraged to wear Luau outfits.

Chick-fil-A Wells Road / 904-541-1111 / 1925 Wells Rd, Orange Park, FL 32073 / www.chick-fil-a.com U.S. Navy Band Southeast • July 25, 3pm Families are invited to the library to hear the U.S. Navy Band Southeast from NAS Jacksonville.

Navy Band Southeast’s VIP Combo performs a variety of jazz standards and popular instrumental music. Doors open at 2:30pm. Free. St. Johns County Public Library, Ponte Vedra Beach Branch / 904-827-6950 / 101 Library Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www.sjcpls.org Florida BBQ Challenge July 27, 10am to 3pm The Florida BBQ Challenge is a live cooking competition and BBQ festival featuring live entertainment, vendors and a kids play area.

This family friendly event is fun for all ages while raising funds for the Child Cancer Fund, a nonprofit established by a group of Jacksonville parents whose children were receiving treatment for cancer. General admission is $10 and kids 10 and under are free.

Riverside Park / 904-389-2449 / 753 Park Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.eatdrink904.com Bingo For Bucks • July 30, 3pm The library hosts Bingo For Bucks, where participants will have the opportunity to win Seymour’s Bucks to use at Seymour’s Bookstore at the Library. St. Johns County Public Library, Ponte Vedra Beach Branch / 904-827-6950 / 101 Library Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www.sjcpls.org FLYP Ice Cream Party July 31, 2pm to 3:30pm Participants in the Kids’ Summer Reading Program and their families are invited to celebrate with ice cream, fun toppings, music, bubbles, board games, and more. They will also hold a raffle drawing using the summer reading entries for gift cards to Seymour’s Book Store and The Bookmark Book Store. Free.

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

JULY 2019 • Jax4Kids.com • Page 23

Top-ranked care for your top priority.

Wolfson Children’s Hospital is proud to be ranked among the Nation’s 50 Best Children’s Hospitals by U.S. News & World Report.

At Wolfson Children’s Hospital, our top priority — like yours — is your child. That’s why we never stop striving to improve our care. When we get better, kids get better.

Learn more about our nationally recognized care at wolfsonchildrens.com.

WCH 35069 US News 2019 Jax4Kids Ad_v02.indd 1

6/19/19 10:05 AM