Jax4Kids.com October 2016

Visit us online at www.jax4kids.com

In this issue: Educational Resources

FREE!

October 2016

OCT 14-16, 21-23, 27-31

jacksonvillezoo.org

Founding Sponsor of:

K-12th Education Project Inquiry Based Learning S.T.E.A.M.

(Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math)

Studio School: Pre-Intern Program Est. 1988 - Accredited by SACS/CASI

Full Scholarships Available

904-493-7300 Page 2 • Jax4Kids.com • OCTOBER 2016

Equity & Justice in Education JacksonvilleScienceFestival.org

After School Programs and Summer Camp Available!

www.FoundationAcademy.com

Contents

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

October 2016

Dear Readers,

W

e’ve reached that time in the school year that report cards come home and it’s the perfect time to bring you an issue filled with Educational resources. Did you know that the Florida Prepaid Tuition Board is giving away ten FREE 2-Year Florida College Plans? If you are a legal resident of the State of Florida with children or grandchildren between the ages of newborn through 8th grade, turn to page 19 for details. Do you have a child with ADHD? Turn to page 16 and read 6 ADHD Homework tips by our new columnist, Psychologist Dr. Jill Driest. Learn more about Dr. Driest in our That’s My Job column on page 17. Each month, we give kids a glimpse into a profession to help them discover career options. JU and the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens have collaborated to create an online digital magazine that explains, illustrates, and demystifies scientific concepts. Read about The Science of… on page 23 and on page 15 you’ll find Mobile Apps that inspire and educate.

If you have a teenager, you know that automobile accidents are the leading cause of death among teens. The dangers of distracted driving are well-documented and often discussed. A topic that is not discussed as often, and is the second leading cause of death among young people (age 15 – 34) is suicide. Please turn to page 26 and read Dr. Scherbarth’s article on Suicide Prevention.

If you’re expecting and have a toddler at home, turn to page 9 and find out how to prep your toddler for a new sibling. You’ll also find Halloween Books for Tots, Chores for Toddlers and some of the many events for infants and toddlers during October. You’ll find many more on our dedicated Infant & Toddler events page online at jax4kids.com.

October is a busy month with school and sports, Fall Festivals and Halloween. We wanted to bring you a few highlights of the season, beginning with our cover featuring the Jacksonville Zoo and

LIVING WELL Community Profile: Project Chance ......................................................................4 Plant Yourself Like A Seed ...................................................................................4 Switch Witch This Halloween ...............................................................................5 Safety Tips for a Happier Halloween .....................................................................5

HEALTH & SAFETY

Sports Nutrition Needs Vary With Age ..................................................................6 Things to Do: Health & Safety ..............................................................................6 House Plants That Remove Air Toxins ...................................................................7 Don’t Wait - Check the Date! It’s Time to Replace Smoke Alarms ..........................8

INFANT & TODDLER Garden’s Spooktacular! It begins October 14th.

Buy your tickets online now and save $1. Switch Witch is a new tradition that teaches kids the benefits of giving back while limiting the amount of candy they keep (and eat). Learn about Switch Witch on page 5 and order yours now at Amazon. com. Also on page 5, read important tips to keep your kids safe during Halloween. If you have a child playing sports, read our Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Nutrition, Aurea Thompson’s column on Sports Nutrition Needs. Turn to page29 for a partial list of the many Fall Festivals and Halloween events and visit our online Fall Festivals and Events calendar at jax4kids.com for a complete list.

While you’re checking out all of the great things to do this fall at jax4kids.com, take a minute to cast your votes for your favorite businesses and services in our annual Best of For Families survey.

We’ll publish the results in the December issue where you’ll find a great reference of North Florida’s best of the best for Kids!

Until next month, Alison Peters-Carlson Editor

Prepping Your Toddler for a New Sibling ...............................................................9 Halloween Books for Tots ..................................................................................11 Things to Do: Infant & Toddler ...........................................................................11 Put Those Babies to Work: Chores for Toddlers ...................................................12

EDUCATION

Block-Building Games Enhance Spatial Abilities..................................................14 Google Doodle Contest Underway ......................................................................15 Mobile Apps That Inspire ...................................................................................15 Learning Another Language Benefits All .............................................................16 6 ADHD Homework Tips ....................................................................................16 Great Websites for Kids Adds to the Lineup ........................................................17 That’s My Job: Dr. Jill Driest ..............................................................................17 Field Trips .........................................................................................................18 Florida Prepaid College Board College Plans Giveaway .......................................19 Create a “Reader-Friendly” Home ......................................................................19

DUVAL COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS..............................20 ST. JOHNS COUNTY SCHOOL NEWS Outstanding Principal and Assistant Named for Year............................................21 Finalists Named for Superintendent Post............................................................21 Seniors, Mark Your Calendar..............................................................................21 Another Op’nin’, Another Show..........................................................................21

CLAY COUNTY SCHOOL NEWS

Get Your Flu Shot Now.......................................................................................22 Get Juiced With The Oakleaf Band .....................................................................22 Race Benefits College-Bound Seniors ................................................................22 Schools Will Have New Superintendent ..............................................................22 Little Library Honors Retired Teacher..................................................................22

NATURE

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 Doug Berle Advertising Sales......................................... doug@jax4kids.com Beth Canonica Advertising Sales.................................... beth@jax4kids.com Donna Paunetto Advertising Sales.............................. donna@jax4kids.com Mary Gustafson Business Manager............................... mary@jax4kids.com Published by Child Enrichment, LLC, 12620-3 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32246. Copyright 2016.

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.

“The Science of...” New JU Video Magazine Collaborates with Zoo......................23 Annual River Report Results Mixed.....................................................................23 Things To Do: Nature.........................................................................................23

SPECIAL NEEDS At a Loss for Words: Helping Our Son Find His Voice...........................................24 Things to Do: Special Needs...............................................................................24 Treating Anxiety, Stress, and OCD with Cognitive Behavior Therapy......................25 The Impact Down Syndrome Had on Our Family..................................................25

TEENS Suicide Prevention.............................................................................................26 Things to Do: Teens...........................................................................................26 Auto Accidents are Leading Cause of Teen Deaths..............................................27

PETS Ease Older Cats’ Arthritis...................................................................................28 Tail Wagging has Many Meanings .....................................................................28 Things to Do: Pet Events....................................................................................28

THINGS TO DO .......................................................................... 29-31 OCTOBER 2016 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 3

LIVING WELL

Community Profile: Project Chance

Providing Therapy Dogs to the Autistically Disabled autism assistance dog by their side can help by giving them a focal point, or a way to ground their random, unceasing environmental experiences.

F

ernandina-based Project Chance is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing clinically prescribed and professionally trained service and therapy dogs with the specific skill sets needed to aid children diagnosed with autism and other developmental disabilities.

These dogs help children achieve maximum potential and independence in executing therapeutic, social, and physical tasks at a higher rate of success throughout their lives.

Founder/Director B.J. Szwedzinski, a special education teacher, a humane society educational program administrator and professional dog trainer for over 28 years, started the program in 2008 with litter of golden retriever puppies. The idea of pairing children and dogs together to affect positive, personal behavioral change germinated during her tenure as a classroom teacher in the early 1990s when she observed the “natural peace that prevailed” when she brought her dog to class. Now her organization has more than 30 dogs paired with kids with autism between the ages of 4 and 19 and serving as classroom facilitators in Autistic Spectrum Disorder classrooms around Florida and southeast Georgia.

The American with Disabilities Act states simply that a person with a disability that substantially limits one or more major life activities and can benefit from a service dog trained to perform tasks to mitigate those disabilities, has the right to use a service dog for social and emotional assistance. Autism is a developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. The result of a neurological disorder that affects functioning of the brain. According to the Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention, autism and its associated behaviors occur in approximately one in 68 individuals. It is five times more prevalent in boys than girls.

Autism assistance dogs are unique to the world of dogs helping people. Unlike the guide dog who helps with physical tasks, the autism assistance dog is there more for emotional support. By simply being there, a solid, sound and reassuring companion can help ease sensory overload, which is a common challenge for those with autism. People with autism are often unable to filter out sensory input. These folks hear, feel and smell everything – all at once – and are usually unable to ignore or redirect those stimuli. An

Most children with autism have no concept of personal safety, and can wander outdoors and into traffic. Autism assistance dogs have a very special ability to help with this. A child can be tethered from his/her harness to the dog’s harness to prevent the child from bolting in public. This is a trained ability that starts with the dog and the child acclimating to wearing harnesses and vests and ultimately, the child holds a handle from the dog’s harness and an adult is always holding another leash to the dog.

Plant Yourself Like A Seed

W

e often think that the grass will be greener somewhere else.

what they are doing. Too many people run from challenges instead of developing stronger roots.

We believe we’ll be happier and more successful anywhere but where we are.

If you are like me, you’ve been one of these people. Most of us have at one time or another.

It’s human nature after all.

And so we pursue happiness and chase success thinking one day we will magically find them. But That’s why I want to encourage you not to worry about things you can’t control. Don’t run away rarely will we find happiness and success by from where you are in the hope of finding greener seeking them. pastures.

I’ve learned if you want success you can’t chase it. Instead you must decide to make a difference Instead plant yourself like a seed each day and invest your time and energy growing yourself and where you are… and success will find you. others.

I’ve learned if you want to find happiness don’t seek it. Instead decide to work with passion and When you plant yourself where you are with a purpose… and happiness will find you. passionate desire to make a difference you’ll grow into the influencer you were born to be.

Too many people want instant success and gratification right now! Too many athletes want The greenest pasture is not somewhere else. It’s to be traded because they think they’ll be more successful on another team. Too many employthe place where you plant yourself and create a great environment for growth. When you do this, ees complain that their co-workers aren’t you’ll produce an abundant harvest filled with working hard enough and this affects their own real success and true happiness. j performance. Too many sales people compare themselves to others and become frustrated and disengaged. Too many people worry about what www.jongordon.com www.positiveschool.com everyone else is doing instead of focusing on

Szwedzinski , her daughters KCJ and Nikki, and a host of volunteers run the organization from their Dogleg Productions kennel and training facility at 9552 Arbor Lane off old Nassauville Road, south of State Route 200 in Nassau County.

“Just because you haven’t found your talent yet, doesn’t mean you don’t have one.”

To learn more about the organization and the steps necessary to acquire an assistance dog see their website projectchance.com for an extensive set of requirements and standards and email Szwedzinski at info@projectchance.com for an appointment. The site also has a link for donations and information on how to become a volunteer.

– Kermit the Frog

To help cover the cost, an endowment, graciously provided by Ms. Eleanor Blanchard, provides scholarships for families living in Nassau, Duval, Baker, St. Johns, and Clay Counties. The endowment covers all but $2,500 of the cost the receiving families or schools are required to pay.

In addition, scholarships are also available for Autistic Spectrum Disorder teachers in these five counties. For those outside the area, Project Chance charges $12,500 per dog. It costs the organization more than $20,500 to obtain and train an assistance dog. They rely on donation and grants to make up the difference. j

Page 4 • Jax4Kids.com • OCTOBER 2016

Law Office of

STEPHEN DOTY Divorce Custody Bankruptcy Foreclosure

904.416.8328

stephendotylaw.com

LIVING WELL

Switch Witch This Halloween S

witch Witch is the new Halloween tradition that is teaching kids around the country the benefits of giving back.

Since then, Rob and Lara have been working side-by-side to bring this endearing, magical Halloween tradition to parents and children across the country, with proceeds and candy Halloween is a one of the most fun holidays of the going to help the troops through Operation year for children of all ages, but the stockpile of Gratitude as well as the Juvenile Diabetes candy seems to grow each and every year! On Research Foundation! average, consumers spend $2.2 billion on Halloween candy a year and unfortunately most Each Halloween night, millions of parents face of that candy goes into the mouths of children… off against their children in an effort to stop them and sometimes guilty parents! from eating all their Halloween candy in one night. Switch Witch looks to change that by Rob Bouley and sister-in-law Lara Spear Riley offering families a fun and beneficial way to part wanted to change the amount of candy going into with Halloween candy. their children’s mouths while creating a holiday tradition that their families could enjoy.

On Halloween night at bedtime, children and families will leave a portion of their trick-or-treat “We were becoming increasingly dismayed by sweets with their Switch Witch pal and in the the amount of candy collected by our children morning they will find that their candy has been each Halloween night and wanted to find a way to switched with a special Switch Witch gift. give this candy to those who may need it more than our children” Rob and Lara explained.

Each Switch Witch box contains an Original Switch Witch and Cauldron and a “Switch Witch” After a brainstorming with their families (and story book by Lara Spear Riley. It sells on Amazon getting some great input from their kids) Rob and for $18.95. j Lara developed the basic story and concept of Switch Witch and the rest was history.

Safety Tips for a Happier Halloween W hether you’re trick-or-treating or marching in the ghost and goblin parade, keep Halloween scares to a minimum.

•

For a tear-free celebration, observe these safety recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Los Angeles Fire Department, and the National Safety Council.

•

•

•

•

Choose fire-retardant costumes. Look for a label that indicates flame-resistance on any costumes, wigs, and headpieces you purchase. If you’re making the costume yourself, examine the fabric content and talk • the salesperson to help you choose the least flammable material.

Use make-up instead of masks. Hypoallergenic, non-toxic face paint is a better choice • than a mask, which may obscure your child’s vision and hinder his breathing. If you do opt for a mask, cut oversized holes for his eyes and mouth, and encourage him to take the • mask off each time he crosses the street.

Avoid oversized costumes and shoes that can trip them up. Choose comfortable shoes

and make sure clothes don’t drag on the ground.

Select light-colored costumes when possible. This makes it easier for drivers to spot trick-or-treaters. For costumes that have to be dark, accessorize with a white pillowcase your child can use to stash his loot and help them stand out in the dark.

Attach reflective tape to the costume to make her easier to spot. A few strips on the back, front, and goodie bag should do the trick. If they are planning on biking or skateboarding, stick some tape on that as well.

Ensure emergency information (name, number, and address) are somewhere on the clothes or on a bracelet if you’re not going to be with them.

Choose accessories that are smooth and flexible. Look for swords, knives, and other accessories that don’t look too realistic or have sharp ends or points.

Give them a flashlight, watch, and cell phone. j

OCTOBER 2016 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 5

HEALTH & SAFETY

Sports Nutrition Needs Vary With Age

W

hy would sports nutrition for children be any different than sports nutrition for adults, you might ask? Read on!

Child athletes (age 5-18 years) must consume enough energy, not only to fuel their exercise, but they need sufficient nutrients to support growth, which is why it is so important to make sure they are getting what they need to perform and feel their best. Calorie and protein needs not only depend on the level and type of physical activity that kids are involved in, but also depend on their physical development. A 10-year-old who runs cross country is not going to have the same calorie and protein requirements of a 17-year old football player. Individual nutrient requirements for serious athletes cannot be expressed here, but some general guidelines on eating and hydration are outlined below.

Eating before Exercise • • •

Include protein as a part of your child’s meals/snacks throughout the day. Protein helps to build and repair muscle tissue.

A pre-game meal (more than 2 hours before exercise) should include a combination of protein, carbohydrate and fat.

Encourage a good source of carbohydrate 30 minutes before a practice or game for a boost of energy without causing stomach upset – examples include a jelly sandwich, banana, apple or grapes, saltine crackers, pretzels or a sports drink. Granola bars are not necessarily a good source of energy right before a game because they can contain varying amounts of protein and fat which can lead to stomach discomfort.

Examples of pre-game meals (more than 2 hours before exercise): • • • • • • •

Peanut butter (or another nut butter) on toast with honey and skim milk.

A fruit and yogurt smoothie made with Greek yogurt, plus low-fat granola.

Oatmeal with brown sugar & almonds plus a banana and skim milk.

Lean hamburger on a whole grain bun with lettuce and tomato plus a side salad and a layered yogurt/fruit parfait.

Whole-grain pasta with meat sauce and fresh fruit such as grapes or strawberries.

Turkey and Swiss on a whole grain pita wrap with lettuce & tomato plus fresh fruit and a sports drink.

Low-fat tuna melt sandwich on whole grain bread with a fruit cup and fat-free Greek Yogurt.

Goals of Hydration • •

•

•

For shorter duration of exercise (60 minutes or less), water is the preferred choice of rehydration before, during and after exercise.

For longer duration of exercise (over 60 minutes), a sports drink such as Gatorade or Powerade (6-8% carbohydrate) is a better option because electrolytes will most likely need to be replaced as well.

For older children/teens that may lose a lot of fluid during training, replace those lost fluids by drinking 2 to 3 cups (16 to 24 ounces) of fluid (water or sports drinks) for every pound of weight lost during practice.

Encourage your child to stay hydrated throughout the day so that he/she doesn’t start a workout already thirsty.

Eating for Recovery after Exercise The goal of eating for recovery is to restore lost fluids and electrolytes, replace muscle fuel (carbohydrates) used during practice and provide protein to aid in the repair of damaged muscles.

The optimal time for nutrition recovery is with a snack or meal within 15 to 60 minutes following the end of practice or a game.

Some recovery snack ideas include: • Smoothie made with Greek yogurt (carbohydrate, protein, fluid) and frozen blueberries/ strawberries (carbohydrate).

• Sports drink (carbohydrate +electrolyte + fluid) plus a sports bar (carbohydrate, protein, fat).

• Graham crackers (carbohydrate) with peanut butter (protein, fat), a banana (carbohydrate) plus low-fat chocolate milk *(carbohydrate, protein). *Almond or coconut milk can be substituted for cow’s milk, but the protein content will be lower overall.

Some recovery meal ideas include: • Rice and beans with cheese, salsa, avocado plus whole grain tortilla chips or whole wheat tortilla.

• Stir fry with lean steak or chicken, broccoli, bell peppers, carrots and brown rice.

• Whole grain pasta with lean ground beef and marinara sauce plus a side salad.

Remember that fueling right will not create a great athlete, but fueling right can make all athletes perform their best. j Aurea Thompson, MSH, RD, CSP, LD/N Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Nutrition Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Page 6 • Jax4Kids.com • OCTOBER 2016

Things to Do Health & Safety

Bubble Run Jacksonville October 1, 8am Participants run, walk, dance and play across 3 miles of fun. Waves start every 3-5 minutes. Then, at each kilometer, participants will run through the Foam Bogs where there is enough colored foam to cover you from head to toe. Each of the four Foam Bogs along the course are represented by different colored foam. Kids 4 and under race for free with fully paid adult registration. Regular registration cost is $50. The venue may charge for parking.

Jacksonville Equestrian Center / 13611 Normandy Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32221 / www.bubblerun.com Monster Mash Dash October 14, 6pm to 8pm Families are invited for this annual fundraiser that includes a 5K, 1 mile fun run, as well as a diaper dash. Participants are encouraged to wear costumes. There will food, fun and live entertainment. Fees for the 5K range from $30 to $35; fees for the fun run are $12 to $15. Fees for the diaper dash are $10. Funds raised support quality care for medically complex children in Northeast Florida.

Jacksonville Fairgrounds / 510 Fairgrounds Place, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / communityhospice.com Riverside Arts Market: Yoga Fest October 15, 10am Special Yoga themed day at Riverside Arts Market Enjoy kid friendly activities, as well as local produce, live music, vendors, and more.

Riverside Arts Market / 715 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / riversideartsmarket.com

events in the nation, uniting communities with a shared determination to help free the world from the pain and suffering of breast cancer. Passionate walk participants raise critical funds that enable the American Cancer Society to fund innovative research; provide free, information and support to anyone touched by breast cancer; and help people reduce their breast cancer risk or find it early when it’s most treatable. Start a team, join a team, or walk as an individual at our noncompetitive 3 mile walk.

Hemming Park / 904-391-3610 / 117 West Duval St., Jacksonville, FL 32202 / makingstrides. acsevents.org Ben Byrns 5K Runway Rally & Fun Run October 22, 9am The 5th Annual Ben Byrns 5K Runway Rally will be held on the taxiways and runways of the Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport. The 5K starts 9am immediately followed by the 1-Mile Fun Run. The 1 mile fun run is $10 children age 10 or under. Parent(s) must register to participate with child (no cost for parent). All 1-Mile finishers will receive an award. Registration for the 5k ranges from $20 to $25.

Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport / 700 Airport Road, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 / benbyrns.com

6th Annual Healthy Halloween Jax October 23, 4pm to 6pm Healthy Halloween Jax is an event that was created for health conscious parents who are looking for a way to celebrate Halloween with their little Jaguars Stache Dash 5K and Fun Run ones. This Free Community Event is a way for October 15, 8am to 11am young families to enjoy Halloween without the Start your tailgate in style by running the Jagcandy and scary haunted scenes. There will uars 2016 Stache Dash 5k at Everbank Field on be vendors with tables of crafts, healthy treats, Saturday, October 15th. There is also a one mile fun games, kids yoga, face painting, a bounce house run. Registration includes a ticket to the Jaguars and more. This year will also feature a pumpkin game (Sunday, October 23rd) against the Oakland decorating contest. Have your little ones bring their Raiders, an official race shirt, 1 beverage ticket (can decorated pumpkins to the Healthy Halloween Jax be redeemed for soda, water, etc after the race) and Event. There will be an area set up to display your the opportunity to cross a finish line on Everbank creations. Entry cards will be available for you to fill Field. Registration ranges from $20 to $65. out for each pumpkin entered in the contest. Pumpkins will be judged on creativity, imagination and Everbank Field / 1 Everbank Field Dr, Jacksonville, originality. The winners will be announced toward FL 32202 / www.1stplacesports.com the end of the event. The best pumpkin(s) will win a basket full of goodies. Event is free, but please LumiTronIx Glow Run register in advance online, to be sure that there October 21, 7pm to 10pm is enough goodies for all the kids. Costumes are The Lumi-Tron-Ix Glow Run 5K is a night time run through neon trees, rainbow-laser tunnels, colored welcome.

Johansen Park / 1600 Park Terrace West, Atlantic pathways, and flashing lights, all with electronic Beach, FL 32233 / www.healthyhalloweenjax.com dance music. This 5K will feature eight different light zones, including a spectacular finish though Winter Wellness: Cold & Flu Herbal Medicine a massive lighted castle. After the 5K, there will Making be a live DJ and after party featuring lasers, fog October 31, 6:30pm to 9:30pm machines and more dance music at the main Learn the herbs, friendly bacteria and food sources stage. Every participant will have glow-in-theto defend, combat and recover from Colds & dark glasses, batons, and necklaces. Registration fees range from $40 to $50. Youth (13 and Under) Flu. Class is $25 for non-members, plus a $10 supply fee that will be due in class. can register for $20.

Green Lotus Studios / 904-465-0985 / 2642-2 Metropolitan Park / 1410 Gator Bowl Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.lumitronixrun.com Rosselle St, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.localendar.com/public/greenlotusstudios Making Strides of Jacksonville Visit Jax4Kids.com for more event listings.

October 22, 9am Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walks are the largest network of breast cancer awareness

HEALTH & SAFETY

House Plants That Remove Air Toxins H ouse plants are good for your health. They provide a natural way to remove toxic agents such as benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, xylene/toluene and ammonia from the air. A list from NASA (The agency was studying ways to clean the air in space stations) has been around since 1989. Researchers suggest efficient air cleaning is accomplished with at least one plant per 100 square feet of home or office space. Most of the plants on the list evolved in tropical or subtropical environments. Due to their ability to flourish on reduced sunlight, their leaf composition allows them to photosynthesize well in household light. The negative is that some if eaten are toxic to household pets.

• • • •

• • •

•

•

They include: •

•

Variegated snake plan t, mother-law’s tongue eliminate all the chemicals listed and are nontoxic to pets English ivy, the peace lily and florist’s chrysanthemum eliminate all the chemicals listed but are toxic to pets.

Red-edged dracaena: benzene, formaldehyde, xylene/toluene, trichloroethylene, are toxic Barberton daisy: benzene, formaldehyde, xylene/toluene, is nontoxic.

Janet Craig and Warneckei: benzene, formaldehyde, xylene/toluene, are toxic.

• • • • •

Lilyturf and broadleaf lady palm: formaldehyde, xylene/toluene and ammonia and is nontoxic.

Devil’s ivy, money plan, cornstalk dracaena: benzene, formaldehyde, xylene/toluene, are toxic.

Flamingo lily: formaldehyde, xylene/toluene, ammonia, is toxic.

Drawf date palm, the areca palm, bamboo palm, the Boston fern, Kimberly queen fern and the spider plant eliminate formaldehyde and xylene/toluene and are nontoxic to pets.

Drawf date palm, the areca palm, bamboo palm, the Boston fern, Kimberly queen fern and the spider plant eliminate formaldehyde and xylene/toluene and are nontoxic to pets.

Chinese evergreen and aloe vera: benzene, formaldehyde, is toxic.

The philodendrons (heartleaf, selloum and elephant ear) and the rubber plant eliminate formaldehyde, are toxic.

Banana eliminates formaldehyde and is nontoxic.

Weeping fig: formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, is toxic.

Dendrobium orchids, and moth orchids eliminate xylene/toluene and are nontoxic.

Dumb canes and king of hearts eliminate xylene/toluene and are toxic. j

“Your mind is a garden. Your thoughts are the seeds. You can grow flowers or you can grow weeds.”

– Unknown

OCTOBER 2016 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 7

HEALTH & SAFETY

Don’t Wait – Check the Date!

It’s Time To Replace Smoke Alarms

T

his year’s Fire Prevention Week (Oct. 9-15) campaign, “Don’t Wait – Check the Date!

Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years,” represents the final year of a three-year effort to educate the public about basic but essential elements of smoke alarm safety.

Why focus on smoke alarms three years in a row? Because data from the National Fire Association shows that the public has many misconceptions about smoke alarms, which may put them at increased risk in the event of a home fire. For example, only a small percentage of people know how old their smoke alarms are, or how often they need to be replaced.

As a result of those and related findings, this year’s campaign focuses on these key messages: • Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years.

• Make sure you know how old all the smoke alarms are in your home.

• To find out how old a smoke alarm is, look at the date of manufacture on the back of the alarm; the alarm should be replaced 10 years from that date.

Since 1922, Fire Prevention Week has been observed on the Sunday through Saturday period in which Oct. 9 falls.

But if a cow wasn't to blame for the huge fire, what was? Over the years, journalists and historians have offered plenty of theories. Some blamed the blaze on a couple of neighborhood boys who were near the barn sneaking cigarettes.

Others believed that a neighbor of the O'Leary's may have started the fire. Some people have speculated that a fiery meteorite may have fallen to earth on Oct. 8, starting several fires that day— in Michigan and Wisconsin, as well as in Chicago.

While the Great Chicago Fire was the best-known blaze to start during this fiery two-day stretch, it wasn't the biggest. That distinction goes to the Peshtigo Fire, the most devastating forest fire in American history. The fire, which also occurred on Oct. 8, 1871, and roared through Northeast Wisconsin, burning down 16 towns, killing 1,152 people, and scorching 1.2 million acres before it ended.

Historical accounts of the fire say that the blaze began when several railroad workers clearing land for tracks unintentionally started a brush fire.

Before long, the fast-moving flames were whipping through the area 'like a tornado,' some survivors said. I t was the small town of Peshtigo, Wisconsin, that suffered the worst damage.

Within an hour, the entire town had been destroyed.

Fire Prevention Week was established to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire, the tragic 1871 conflagration that killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures and burned more than 2,000 acres. The fire began on Oct. 8, but continued into the night and did most of its damage the next day.

Those who survived the Chicago and Peshtigo fires never forgot what they'd been through; both blazes produced countless tales of bravery and heroism. But the fires also changed the way that firefighters and public officials thought about fire safety. On the 40th anniversary of the Great Chicago Fire, the Fire Marshals Association of North America (today known as the International Fire Marshals Association), decided that the According to popular legend, the fire broke out anniversary should henceforth be observed not after a cow – belonging to Mrs. Catherine O'Leary with festivities, but in a way that would keep the – kicked over a lamp, setting first the barn, then public informed about the importance of fire the whole city on fire. Chances are you've heard prevention. some version of this story yourself; people have been blaming the Great Chicago Fire on the cow In 1920, President Woodrow Wilson issued the and Mrs. O'Leary, for more than 130 years. But first National Fire Prevention Day proclamation, recent research by Chicago historian Robert and since 1922. According to the National Cromie has helped to debunk this version of Archives and Records Administration's Library events.

Information Center, Fire Prevention Week is the longest running public health and safety obserLike any good story, the 'case of the cow' has vance on record. The President of the United some truth to it. The great fire almost certainly States has signed a proclamation proclaiming a started near the barn where Mrs. O'Leary kept national observance during that week every year her five milking cows. But there is no proof that since 1925. j O'Leary was in the barn when the fire broke out - or that a jumpy cow sparked the blaze. Mrs. O'Leary herself swore that she'd been in bed early that night, and that the cows were also tucked in for the evening.

Page 8 • Jax4Kids.com • OCTOBER 2016

We take the FEAR out of Dentistry!

Did you know

82% of people say fear is the number one reason they don’t go to the dentist?

Don’t let this be you!

Let us help you ease your fears and take care of your smile! At Carlson Dental Group, we offer different levels of sedation allowing you to relax or even snooze!

904-586-4764

www.CarlsonDentalGroup.com

FREE

Sedation Consultation EXPIRES OCTOBER 31, 2016.

New Downtown Location Now Open in the EverBank Building on Riverside Avenue

INFANT & TODDLER

Prepping Your Toddler for a New Sibling Y

ou are prepared for the arrival of a new baby in the house, but your firstborn has no idea how her little world is about to change. You can help your child prep for a baby and a brand-new life as a big sibling with these simple games and strategies that help explain in terms tots understand why babies require so much special attention and care. In doing so, you’ll help head off feelings of jealousy and resentment, send a message that you’ll love your child just as much as always, and get your little one excited about meeting the new baby.

GIVE AN ANATOMY LESSON: Your firstborn will probably find a brand-new sibling really wrinkly and alien-looking. To help manage expectations, pull out some photos of your toddler when she was a newborn. And give the lowdown on some of the things that make infants different from toddlers.

TEACH YOUR TOT TO BURP: Help your child grasp the concept that newborns don’t actually eat anything at all — they just drink. Tell your child that babies grow from drinking special milk straight from your breasts, or from a bottle that you (or your partner or caregiver) prepare. For fun, demonstrate how to burp a baby by practicing on your tot. She’s bound to get a kick out of sitting in your lap and making a great big pretend burp.

COMMUNICATE WITHOUT WORDS: Explain to your child that unlike big kids, a new baby doesn’t know how to tell anyone what he wants or what’s bothering him, so he cries — it’s his way of talking. He might be letting the family know he’s hungry or sleepy, too hot or too cold, that his diaper is dirty, or he’s just plain bored.

FIND QUIET TIME ACTIVITIES: It’s hard to believe how much an infant sleeps — especially if you’re a toddler or preschooler who’d rather do anything but lie still in bed.

Explain that growing big and strong like her is hard work and that little babies sleep in spurts because they need to eat often. Once your firstborn understands that a new baby sibling needs plenty of shut-eye in order to grow, she’s likely to be more patient and cooperative.

DO A PRACTICE RUN TOGETHER: Your firstborn might not be up for a daily list of baby-related chores, but she’s bound to want to lend a little hand, especially if you make her feel like she’s doing something important. You can do some practice runs before the baby’s arrival.

Using a doll as a stand-in, have her fetch you a diaper or wipes at changing time, a towel at bath time, a pacifier when the “baby” is crying.

Rehearse silly songs and funny faces.

REHEARSE FOR PLAYTIME: Your child might expect her sibling to be ready for action right out of the gate, so it’s a good idea to paint a realistic picture of what life will be like.

Explain that babies don’t do much more than eat, sleep, cry and poop or pee at first, and that they can’t be much of a playmate right away. Together, try out some fun activities that she can play with the baby from day one, such as: Singing or dancing for her new sibling, offering her finger for the baby to squeeze, chatting him up using different voices and holding a soft toy for him to look at.

Kids really do say the funniest things! Please share your favorites with us by e-mailing your story directly to editor@jax4kids.com. One entry each month will be turned into a cartoon to be published in the next issue of Jax4Kids. We’ll send you the original cartoon as a keepsake.

MODEL THE ART OF BEING GENTLE: Your child may not realize how important it is to be gentle with newborn babies. Have your tot practice being gentle with a doll, holding it on her lap and stroking it softly. Ask her to stroke your arm gently too and say things like, “Gentle feels good! The baby will love when you’re gentle with him.” Point out areas where your child will have to be especially careful.

HANDLE GIFTS WITH CARE: There will be plenty of presents, and that can be tough for a tot who’s hoping those pretty packages are for her. Before they start to pile up, explain to your child that friends and family want to help celebrate this happy time by giving gifts.

Then go to her room and point out a few presents she got as a baby. To help your toddler get in on the celebrating, plan a gift she can give the baby, like a painting or drawing to hang near the crib.

And don’t forget to offer an “I’m a big sibling” gift to your toddler when the baby is born. j Expect.com

“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I will remember. Involve me and I will learn.”

– Benjamin Franklin OCTOBER 2016 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 9

Page 10 • Jax4Kids.com • OCTOBER 2016

INFANT & TODDLER

Things to Do Infant & Toddler

Toddler Time at Rebounderz October 3-4; October 10-11; October 18; October 24-25; October 31-November 1 9:30am to 11:30am Rebounderz offers Toddler Time from 9:30am to 11:30am for ages 5 and under. One adult is admitted for free with each child’s $8 paid admission. A valid waiver & Rebounderz jump socks are required for all participants. No Toddler Time on Duval County and St. John’s County school holidays.

Rebounderz / 904-300-0070 / 14985 Old St. Augustine Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258 / rebounderzjacksonville.com Open Gym at Champion’s Gymnastics October 4, 11, 18, 25, 9:30am to 10:30am Champions Gymnastics would like to offer your child the opportunity to experience a whole new world of physical fitness during 1 hour Open Gym play on all four Olympic events plus bounce house, foam pit and more. Children of all ages are welcome, but geared for ages 4 and younger. Held every Tuesday 9:30am to 10:30am. Cost is $5 cash/$7 credit card. Children 18 months and under – free.

Champions Gymnastics / 904-732-6040 / 9410 Historic Kings Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www.

ChampionsOfJax.com Early Childhood – Story in a Box

October 6, 5pm Learn the importance of using manipulatives during reading to enhance the understanding of basic comprehension skills in young children. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a family resource designed for parents, caregivers, and community members. All Parent Academy courses are free of charge.

Mandarin Oaks Elementary / 904-390-2960 / 10600 Hornets Nest Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257 / www. duvalschools.org Teddy Bear Thursdays October 6, 13, 20, 27, 10am to 1pm Every Thursday between 10am-1pm, bring your child to Adventure Landing, Beaches, for a parent/child event. Kids can pick out and create their own stuffed animal from the Teddy Bear Factory. Cost is $9.99.

There will also be coloring activities and Wacky Worm rides for adults and children.

Adventure Landing Beaches / 904-246-4386 / 1944 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / www. adventurelanding.com Saturday Childbirth Class at St. Vincent’s Clay County October 8, 9am to 5:30pm Classes cover the anatomy and physiology of pregnancy, changes during pregnancy, warning signs of pre-term labor, potential complications of pregnancy, what to expect during labor and birth, labor support and Lamaze techniques, hospital routines, analgesia and anesthesia, medical interventions, Cesarean birth, and newborn procedures. Registration covers

mom plus one support person. Includes tour of the Family Birth Place. Class is from 9am to 5:30pm, with an hour for lunch. Attend a class that ends no later than 4 weeks before your due date. Fee $60.00. You do not have to be a St. Vincent’s patient to attend the childbirth classes. Classes are held in the Education Room, in the main lobby of the hospital. Call 904-602-1153 or email Adrienne.geathers@ jaxhealth.com for questions and info. Register in advance.

St. Vincent’s Clay County / 904-602-1153 / 1670 St. Vincent’s Way, Middleburg, FL 32068 / www. jaxhealth.com New Baby Seminar October 19, 6pm to 8pm Angel Kids Pediatrics hosts a premiere seminar for exclusive access to pediatric professionals that are ready to share inside secrets and answer your questions on how to care for your newborn. Includes a special gift for mothers-to-be. Light Refreshments will be served. Free, but please register online in advance.

Angel Kids Pediatrics / 904-674-2304 / 13241 Bartram Park Blvd. unit 209, Jacksonville, FL 32258 / www.myangelkids.com Early Childhood - Learning Luggage October 20, 5pm Learn about the public library resources that can be used to enhance the understanding of basic comprehension skills in young children. The Parent Academy of Duval County Public Schools is a family resource designed for parents, caregivers, and community

members. All Parent Academy courses are free of charge.

Ruth N. Upson Elementary / 904-390-2960 / 1090 Dancy Street, Jacksonville, FL 32205 / www. duvalschools.org Monsters & Minions: Pre-School Halloween Event October 23, 10am to 11:30am October 30, 12noon to 1:30pm TNT Gymnastics hosts a Halloween Pre-School Party with everyone’s favorite Minions. Enjoy 1 hour of open play and final 30 minutes of a spooky craft and halloween activity. Best suited for ages 2 to 6. Entry: $10 (Members - Online Pre-Sale Price Only); $12 (Members - Walk in) & $15 (Non-Members).

TNT Gymnastics / 904-998-8681 / 2683 Saint Johns Bluff Rd S, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.tntgymfit. com TNT Halloween Boo Bash October 28, 6pm to 10pm Join TNT for their Annual Halloween Boo Bash. Kids 5 to 13 can be dropped off for Halloween activities, gymnastics obstacles, crafts, pizza, drinks, & more. Price: $30 (Members) & $35 (Non-Members / Walk Ins). Costumes are welcome, however please avoid wearing masks or capes that can get snagged on equipment.

TNT Gymnastics / 904-998-8681 / 2683 Saint Johns Bluff Rd S, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.tntgymfit. com

Visit Jax4Kids.com for more event listings.

Halloween books for tots Who’s there, Little Hoo?

By Brenda Ponnay

Spooky

By Roger Priddy

Where is baby’s pumpkin

By Karen Katz

The Night Before Halloween

By Natasha Wing

Room on the Broom

By Julia Donaldson

My First Halloween

By Tomie dePaola

Who’s There on Halloween?

Creepy Carrots

By Aaron Reynolds and Peter Brown

Halloween Hustle

By Charlotte Gunnufson

Boo Who?

By Susan Hagen Nipp and Pamela Conn Beall

One, Two… Boo!

By Kristen L. Depken

The Spooky Wheels on the Bus

By J. Elizabeth Mills

By Joan Holub

Little Goblins Ten

By Pamela Jane

Too Many Monsters: A Halloween Counting Book

By Robert Neubecker

The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything

By Linda D. Williams and Megan Lloyd

OCTOBER 2016 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 11

INFANT & TODDLER

Put Those Babies to Work: Chores for Toddlers

M

oms often struggle with finding the balance between keeping a house running (laundry, vaccuuming, dusting, mopping, more laundry) and interacting with their young children.

Instead of tending to daily chores while small children play under foot or nap, have children help with the household chores.

Toddlers have the ability to help with various chores around the home, making an important contribution to the family. Involving young children in household chores increases their self-help skills, encourages independence and builds self-esteem. The best part about a toddler helping with various chores is they tend to think helping is fun and are incredibly eager to help out Mom or Dad. In the kitchen, toddlers can help sweep up floors with a small handheld broom and dustpan. They can wipe down tables and chairs and take non-breakable dishes to the sink at the end of a meal. Toddlers can also help load items into the dishwasher, such as spoons, reusable containers, and plastic drink cups.

Toddlers’ rooms are also a great place where they can help out Mom or Dad. Toddlers can put their dirty clothes into the laundry hamper and place shoes into an easily accessible shoe bin.

They can put toys away into a toy basket and

ADD/ADHD without MEDICATIONS

help tidy their sleeping space. Young children can be taught how to hang up clothing, such as knit shirts or jackets, onto child-sized hangers.

In larger family areas, such as the living room, toddlers can help out by dusting with a dry cloth or a premade duster. They can tidy pillows on couches, put books on lower bookshelves, and help deliver “lost” items to their appropriate location in the house. Toddlers can also be of assistance in the laundry room by helping sort whites and colors, putting wash into the machine, and folding small items such as washcloths and towels.

Involving children in household chores at an early age teaches responsibility and establishes the notion that a family needs to work together as a unit to keep their house running efficiently.

Although a toddler is quite able to help with a variety of chores, be mindful of the child’s safety.

Cleaning products should never be given to a child to use nor should toddlers be allowed to help clean around hot water, stove tops, or dangerous items such as kitchen knives. Avoid micro-managing toddlers as they complete their chores, instead provide positive guidance and praise them for a job well done.j

The American Academy of Pediatricians has given neurofeedback the highest grading of effectiveness for ADD/ADHD. Provides a non-drug approach for diagnosing and treating ADD/ADHD, Learning disabilities, Autism and Aspergers and it is based on research that has been widely replicated all over the world.

Other benefits include: • Overcoming academic difficulties • Progress is maintained once program is completed • Better social skills • Improvement of the emotional climate at home

BIOFEEDBACK ASSOCIATES

904.646.0054

www.biofeedbackassociates.com

kidsactivitiesblog.com

Most Insurances Accepted

….a program to help parents, grandparents, and other caregivers keep infants safe and secure during their first months.

Northeast Florida has an infant mortality rate higher than the state or national rate. Kohl’s Ready, Set, Sleep is designed to address this concern because there is a lot you can do to help get your baby off to a healthy start!

Pediatricians recommend infants sleep on their backs, close to their moms, but in their own separate, safe sleep environment. Other recommendations include breastfeeding, getting baby’s immunizations, and knowing infant CPR.

A family favorite for over 20 years. www.kidspark.com

Fantastic Fall Deal

If you need information about keeping your baby safe while sleeping or about other safety concerns for the first year, please visit our website, wolfsonchildrens.org/readysetsleep

50% off

Family Registration ($12.50 value) No cash value - Offer Expires 11/1/16

Come for a tour!

In Jacksonville for ages 2-12 Avondale 4274 Herschel St. (904) 387-8602 License #C04DU0724

SKNF_1096_ Jax4Kids.com_July 2016_Ad_v01.indd 1

Page 12 • Jax4Kids.com • OCTOBER 2016

7/21/16 3:40 PM

Tinseltown 9726 Touchton Rd. #111 (904) 683-4554 License #C04DU0978

EDUCATION

ADHD Homework Tips!

! s d i K r o f s e t i s b e W t a e r G

Field Trips!

Mobile Apps That Inspire!

and More!

OCTOBER 2016 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 13

EDUCATION

Block-Building Games Enhance Spatial Abilities

R

esearch from Indiana University has found that structured block-building games improve spatial abilities in children to a greater degree than board games.

that have been linked to differences in spatial ability: gender, age, musical training, mathematical skill and socio-economic status.

The two groups of 14 children also took a mental rotation test while inside the scanner, both before and after playing the games. The test – a longstanding measure of spatial visualization and analysis – presents two versions of the same letter, and the children had to decide whether the second letter was simply a rotated version of the same letter or a rotated mirror image of that The research lends new support to the idea that letter. There were no differences in mental such block games might help children develop rotation performance between the two groups in spatial skills needed in science- and math-orient- either the brain activation or performance during ed disciplines. the first rotation test and scan. But the block play group showed a change in activation in regions It is also the first study to use neuroimaging to linked to both motor and spatial processing explore the effects of block building on brain during the second scan. activity, said Sharlene Newman, a professor in the IU Bloomington College of Arts and Sciences’ The group who played board games failed to Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, show any significant change in brain activation who led the research. between the pre- and post-game scans, or any significant improvement on the mental rotation “Block play changed brain activation patterns,” test results.

Newman said. “It changed the way the children were solving the mental rotation problems; we Insofar as the spatial abilities of 8-year-olds are saw increased activation in regions that have still developing, Newman said the change from been linked to spatial processing only in the the first scan to the second scan might reflect a building blocks group.” shift in the strategy used to solve the mental rotation problems.

The structured block-building game used for the In other words, as children develop their spatial study was called “Blocks Rock”; the board game abilities, they may move from a piecemeal was Scrabble. strategy in which they analyze the internal relations or parts of an image to a holistic The research builds upon previous studies that strategy in which the image as a whole is have shown that children who frequently mentally rotated. participate in activities such as block play, puzzles and board games have higher spatial “The block play group showed a change in ability than those who participate more in activation in regions linked to both motor and activities such as drawing, riding bikes, or playing spatial processing,” Newman added. “This raises with trucks and sound-producing toys. It is also the possibility that the block play group changed demonstrates that training on one visuospatial how they were performing the mental rotation task can transfer to other tasks. In this instance, task after training.” training on the structured block-building game resulted in transfer to mental rotation perforUltimately, Newman, who in other work has mance. explored the relationship between math and spatial reasoning, hopes that such findings will “Other studies look solely at behavioral changes, help students struggling with math and other such as the improved performance on measures disciplines. “Any way you can improve a child’s of spatial ability,” Newman said. “We’re actually mathematical competence, whether through scanning the brain.” block-building or any other method, that’s where my interest lies,” she said.

To conduct the study, IU researchers placed 28 eight-year-olds in a magnetic resonance imaging Newman is also the director of the Indiana scanner before and after playing one of the two University Imaging Research Facility and games. Play sessions were conducted for 30 associate vice provost of undergraduate educaminutes over the course of five days. To create an tion at IU Bloomington. j equal distribution of spatial ability between the news.indiana.edu two groups from the start, the children were divided evenly according to several categories The study measures the relative impact of two games – a structured block-building game and a word-spelling board game – on children’s spatial processing. Such processing includes mental rotation, which involves visualizing what an object will look like after it is rotated.

Page 14 • Jax4Kids.com • OCTOBER 2016

EDUCATION

Google Doodle Contest Underway

W

hat does the future look like? Are cities built in the clouds? Is it a place where everyone gets along - even cats and dogs? Or maybe a world where nobody ever gets sick?

With the Google homepage as their canvas, young artists are invited to reach into their imagination and share what they see for the future. The winner’s artwork will be featured on the Google homepage.

simple, the idea of decorating the company logo to celebrate notable events was born.

Two years later in 2000, Larry and Sergey asked current webmaster Dennis Hwang, an intern at the time, to produce a doodle for Bastille Day. It was so well received by our users that Dennis was appointed chief doodler and doodles started showing up more and more on the Google homepage. In the beginning, the doodles mostly celebrated familiar holidays; nowadays, they highlight a wide array of events and anniversaries from the Birthday of John James Audubon to the Ice Cream Sundae.

Mobile Apps That Inspire

C

hildren can benefit from mobile applications that promote problem-solving, productivity, and originality. These playful apps inspire pre-kindergartners to high school students to write, draw, brainstorm, and explore a community of creatives.

DRAWING DESK - Draw, Paint, Doodle, Sketch (iOS & Android, Free) Drawing Desk’s primary appeal is its universality and robust utility; students of all ages can draw, sketch, and tweak photos with ease. The app’s Kids Desk mode makes sure the youngest creative minds have a space to thrive. They can select from a diverse offering of brush patterns (like hearts or flowers), and choose from coloring book galleries of animals, vehicles, and more. The Sketch Desk, Photo Desk, and Doodle Desk each offer distinct tools and the option to save or share creations. We recommend parents pay $1.99 via in-app purchase to get rid of advertisements.

Over time, the demand for doodles has risen in the U.S. and internationally. Creating doodles is now the responsibility of a team of talented illustrators (we call them doodlers) and engineers.

Students in grades K-12 are invited to take part For them, creating doodles has become a group MR. POTATO HEAD - Create & Play (iOS, Free) in the 2016 Doodle 4 Google contest, and create effort to enliven the homepage and bring smiles This timeless children’s toy has gone digital with a doodle that tells the world “What I see for the the recent release Mr. Potato Head - Create & to the faces of Google users around the world.

Play. While Hasbro Gaming has abandoned Mr. future.” From crayons to clay, graphic design, or Potato Head’s “bucket of parts”, this entertaining even food, young artists can utilize any materials How many doodles has Google done over the app promotes spatial awareness and creativity. to bring their creation to life. Like all Google years?

The free version includes six outfit changes and Doodles, each doodle must incorporate the The team has created over 2000 doodles for our two background worlds, all of which are accesletters G-o-o-g-l-e. One national winner will also homepages around the world. sible through the toy chest. Each world includes receive a $30,000 college scholarship. The five programmed animations and children can contest opened Sept. 14 and runs through Dec. 2. Who chooses what doodles will be created save their favorite moments to an in-app gallery.

Alas, the app doesn’t allow mixing and matching and how do you decide which events will parts from various outfits, so there will be no Doodles are the fun, surprising, and sometimes receive doodles? pirate ballerinas. Parents can unlock all 26 outfits spontaneous changes that are made to the A group of Googlers get together regularly to and 13 interactive worlds for $4.99.

Google logo to celebrate holidays, anniversaries, brainstorm and decide which events will be and the lives of famous artists, pioneers, and celebrated with a doodle. The ideas for the CREATIVE WRITING PROMPTS (iOS, $2.99) scientists. doodles come from numerous sources including Creative Writing Prompts was developed Googlers and users. The doodle selection process by Tanner Christensen, who works as a product aims to celebrate interesting events and anniver- designer for Facebook. This iOS universal app provides impromptu inspiration for middle and saries that reflect Google’s personality and love high school students with writer’s block, including for innovation. over 1,000 lines and prompts. If a student uses

How did the idea for doodles originate?

In 1998, before the company was even incorporated, the concept of the doodle was born when Google founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin played with the corporate logo to indicate their attendance at the Burning Man Festival in the Nevada desert. They placed a stick figure drawing behind the 2nd “o” in the word, Google, and the revised logo was intended as a comical message to users that the founders were “out of office.” While the first doodle was relatively

How can Google users/the public submit ideas for doodles?

The doodle team is always excited to hear ideas from users – they can email proposals@google. com with ideas for the next doodle. The team receives hundreds of requests every day so we unfortunately can’t respond to everyone. But rest assured that we’re reading them :) j

Creative Writing Prompts on the regular, he or she will definitely develop a writing routine, which in turn can make them more effective in other school subjects. Free writing is a great way for students to start the day, even if it means composing during breakfast or on the school bus.

Creative Writing Prompts was designed for professionals and academics alike, so this app is a superb investment that won’t outlive its usefulness.

BEHANCE (iOS & Android, Free) Behance provides creatives, no matter the medium, with a network to distribute their latest opuses. This mobile app is a nice addition for high school and college students who are serious about their craft and want unfiltered feedback from the creative community. Students will need to set up an Adobe account first, then they can pick artistic veterans and curated galleries to follow. Behance is organized with an extensive arrangement of creative fields, including Photography, Illustration, Architecture, Motion Graphics, Computer Animation, and Writing, to name a few. Students can observe works in progress, checking in with pieces at various stages.

INKFLOW Visual Notebook (iOS Free) Inkflow Visual Notebook is a necessary tool for visual learners. Great for middle and high school students, who would benefit from QuickStart Guide tutorial, the app is essentially a blank canvas that can be used for brainstorming, organizing ideas, and drafting multi-page projects. Students can add text and images from their device’s Camera Roll, change their stationary background, and more. The full version can be purchased for $7.99, which includes a color palette, brush tools, page management, and unlimited pages, as opposed to the free version’s 20-page max. j Appolearning.com

Happy. Secure. Inspired.

• •

doodles.google.com/d4g/

•

Grades 4-12 ADHD/LD Scholarships

• • •

Since 1968 Summer Program SACS Accredited

www.CenterAcademy.com Mandarin 448-1956

Orange Park 276-3552

St. Johns Bluff 645-5366

OCTOBER 2016 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 15

EDUCATION

Learning Another Language Benefits All

I

n this age of accountability in education, policymakers and administrators, as well as parents, are increasingly demanding to know what research studies show regarding the benefits of language learning. On its website actfl.org, the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages has compiled a listing of some of the major correlation studies that highlight how language learners benefit from their experiences.

Broken down into various categories, the research shows that: PRE-K & ELEMENTARY • Young people are most open to learning about new languages and cultures.

• Early language study leads to long sequence programs and proficiency.

• Starting early facilitates addition of more languages.

• Language study helps children develop cognitive skills.

MIDDLE SCHOOL • Language learning leads to greater understanding of different cultures.

• Increasing language proficiency opens more opportunities in secondary study.

• Language study enhances problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

• The skills required in learning a language transfer to other academic subjects and improved performance in those subjects.

HIGH SCHOOL • Developing proficiency in other languages broadens career options.

• Skills in languages other than English make those not bound for postsecondary study more attractive employment candidates in a wide range of careers where communicating

•

with diverse customers is necessary.

Good language achievement enhances a student’s college prospects and opens paths for a wider range of college-level fields of study.

COLLEGE • The postsecondary experience can be greatly enhanced by study abroad and travel abroad programs when students have multilingual skills.

• This is the point of final career preparation, where language proficiency will greatly enhance their employment and future career prospects.

• Knowing another language will expose postsecondary students to career fields they might not have known about without this academic background.

COMMUNITY AND BUSINESS • Solid language programs make the community and its schools more attractive to potential residents and employers.

• These programs contribute to a more diverse population and enhance the cultural experiences of all citizens.

• Offering language programs addresses the concerns and demands of parents in the community.

• Encouraging language learning helps develop a more valuable employment pool with contemporary skills.

• Acquisition of language skills increases business opportunities with minority groups within the community.

• Broader language skills help to improve the community by minimizing language barriers and building cross-cultural understanding.

j actfl.org

6 ADHD Homework Tips

I

t’s already 8:30 at night. Your family has but just needs to grab the container! already finished dinner and you are trying to wind down for bed until you realize that your child Tip #4: Provide supervision. has yet to complete his homework for the While your child is working on homework, make evening. Sound familiar? You are not alone. sure to provide ongoing supervision. Your role is Problems with homework are common in children to supervise the homework process and the quality of the work. in general, but even more common in children diagnosed with ADHD. The reason for this is If you check in and notice your child is on-task simple: children with ADHD have difficulties and focused on his homework assignment, make organizing tasks, focusing, paying attention, and sure to praise his effort. working independently.

These are some of the most important tips in order to help your child be successful: Tip #1: Set a consistent time to complete homework.

Parents, you know your child best! Does your child appear to have the best attention right after school or does your child typically need a short break when coming home from school?

I know it can be challenging to set a consistent time especially if your child is involved in many afterschool activities, but coming up with a consistent time to complete homework is important. Begin your homework time at the same time each day.

By doing so, it will become part of your child’s routine and will help to minimize any unnecessary arguing about when homework should begin.

– Albert Einstein

Page 16 • Jax4Kids.com • OCTOBER 2016

If you notice your child is distracted and not working, you will want to provide correction whenever possible. Make sure to stay calm and provide a simple statement such as “It is homework time.”

Tip #5: Break up the homework into smaller sections.

Before beginning homework, evaluate the length of assignments. You will want to break the homework assignment into smaller chunks. The smaller chunks should be relatively equal in the amount of time it will take for completion.

A good way to break up the material is based on a child’s grade level: about 3 minutes of work per a child’s grade. That would mean that if you have a 3rd grader, you would break up the work into approximately 9-minute “chunks.”

Tip #2: Set a consistent location to complete homework.

Given that the smaller sections are based on time, it is absolutely necessary to have a timer during all homework sessions.

Think about the current location your child currently completes his homework. Does your child work at the dining room table? Does your child do his homework in his room?

At the end of each section of work, provide more positive praise!

For children with ADHD, we want to make sure that we are finding an environment that has very few distractions. This means, the television should be off and the toys should be put away.

Tip #3: Have all materials together before homework begins.

“Education is not the learning of facts, but the training of the mind to think.”

“I love how hard you are working right now!”

Being that children with ADHD can be disorganized and forgetful, this is an important step in creating an effective homework routine. Make sure your child has gathered all the necessary items before sitting down to start his homework.

Tip #6: Give short breaks.

Breaks should be scheduled before homework begins. Remember to keep it short, around 2 minutes, so that your child can easily be reengaged with the homework assignment.

The short breaks may not seem like much time, but it gives your child an opportunity to move around, go to the bathroom, or get a drink of water. j

Jill Driest, Ph.D. Owner | Licensed Psychologist Many families find it helpful to have a “homework Foundations Pediatrics Assessment and Treatkit” prepared with all the materials inside such as ment Center pens, pencils, paper, calculator, pencil sharpener, (904) 370-3420 and erasers. Then when homework begins, your www.foundationspediatrics.com child does not have to collect all of these items

EDUCATION

Great Websites for Kids Adds to the Lineup T

he Association for Library Service to Children, a division of the American Library Association, has added more sites to Great Websites for Kids, its online resource featuring hundreds of links to exceptional websites for children.

Members of the GWS Committee review potential sites for inclusion and vote on the sites to be included. They also regularly check the entire site to ensure currency and re-evaluate sites when necessary.

“The Great Websites Committee has chosen eleven new websites to add to its database. Of this round of winners, at least five of the sites are science based, with two that specifically encourage girls to explore STEM careers,” said Lisa Taylor, librarian, Jacksonville Public Library, and Alia Shields, librarian, Cherry Hill, New Jersey Public Library, co-chairs of the Great Websites for Kids Committee. “Many of these additions will also be of interest to educators.”

The newly added sites are: Ben’s Guide to the U.S. Government – bensguide.gpo.gov canTEEN – canteengirl.org DK Find Out! – dkfindout.com/us Exploratorium – exploratorium.edu/explore Girls Communicating Career Connections – gc3.edc.org KidLit TV – kidlit.tv Oh Noah! – pbskids.org/noah Origami Yoda – origamiyoda.com Plum Landing – pbskids.org/plumlanding Sparticl – sparticl.org j

Great Web Sites for Kids features links to high-quality websites of interest to children 14 years of age and younger, organized into diverse subject headings such as animals; art; history; literature; sciences; and more. Each site entry includes a brief annotation and the recommended ala.org grade-level(s). GWS users can rate sites, save their favorites for quick access, and share sites via social media and email.

That’s MY Job!

Dr. Jill Driest - Child Psychologist

Foundations Pediatrics Assessment and Treatment Center Angel Kids Pediatrics

How long have you been a child psychologist?

I’ve been licensed as a psychologist in Florida for 3 years now, but I’ve been working with children within the field of psychology for almost 10 years.

Why did you choose this career?

I’ve always been told to search for a career that you love and it won’t ever feel like a job.

As soon as I started to work with children, I knew that I had found my passion.

What kind of education did you get to become a child psychologist?

I completed my Bachelor’s degree at the University of Florida and then went on to receive my Masters and Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. After finishing the doctorate, it’s required that you have another year of supervision before you can get licensed. It’s definitely a lot schooling and training, but well worth it!

What are some of your responsibilities?

As a child psychologist, I spend most of my time in therapy sessions helping children develop new skills. I also complete lots of testing sessions, evaluating children for particular concerns (such as autism, developmental delays, ADHD).

But, I would say one of my biggest responsibilities is helping children and families feel comfortable with me. Forming a quality relationship is so important in building trust and collaborating throughout treatment.

What do you like most about your job?

The children!

Get an Academic Check Up for only $95. Expires 10-22-16.

Grades middle through high school Low student to teacher ratio Standard high school diploma Multi-sensory instruction Outdoor science laboratory McKay & Gardiner Scholarship participant Accredited by the Florida Council of Independent Schools

To learn more visit our website or call

www.greenwoodjax.org 904-726-5000

Now enrolling for 2016-2017 school year. Call today for a campus tour.

OCTOBER 2016 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 17

EDUCATION

Field Trips IN SCHOOL PROGRAMS Anti-Bullying Program with Magician Mark Alan Mark Alan presents an anti-bullying program that’s sure to make a difference. Mark Alan has been performing his “Just for Fun”, “Character Counts” and “Reading is Fun” magic programs in schools and libraries all over Florida for more than twenty years. Kids love Mark’s fast- paced, interactive programs, and teachers and librarians love that the kids are learning while having fun.

Bullying is a huge safety concern. STAND Against Bullying is a great program to kick off and/or reinforce your anti-bullying initiatives.

STAND Against Bullying is a 45 minute program that deals with this serious topic in a fun manner using comedy, magic, ventriloquism, musical routines, and lots of interaction to help give kids the tools to S.T. A. N. D. against Bullying! www.markalanmagic.net / 904-540-5084 Club Scientific They bring their portable labs to you. Students rotate through stations performing hands-on experiments which fully support state and national science performance standards. Many of the labs provide a project that students can take home. All of the lessons help engage students in observation, measurement, identification of properties and experimentation involving life, earth and physical science concepts. The following science process skills are also emphasized: observing, classifying, comparing, measuring, critical thinking, predicting, hypothesizing, sequencing, and experimentation. www.stjohns.clubscientific.com / 904-287-8603 Dave The Plantman Dave The Plantman offers in-school programs on Organic Vegetable Gardening. Growing a vegetable garden is a wonderful way to encourage children to eat more veggies. It can also teach kids why these foods are an important part of a healthy diet. Studies have shown that when children help plant, tend to, and gather vegetables, they eat more of them than kids who don’t garden. Call to schedule an in-school or home school program. www.davetheplantman.com / 904-673-6930 Energy Bus Schools A positive, relevant message based on The Energy Bus, The No Complaining Rule, and Training Camp that connects with today’s students. Students leave feeling empowered, energized, and ready to become better leaders. Sharing powerful strategies and enlightening stories that inspire young leaders to follow their passion, use their gifts, live their purpose, enjoy the ride, and make a significant impact on the world. This presentation is open to any grade level. www.energybusschools.com / 904-285-6842 F.A.C.E. (Fitness and Character Education) F.A.C.E. is a class/session consisting of juggling (coordination of hands and eyes), jumping rope (timing of feet

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is home to over 1,400 species of animals and 2,000 species of plants from around the world. Field trips are self-guided, but you are encouraged to attend keeper talks and schedThe emphasis is fitness and coordination, yet also uses ule an education program to maximize the resources the subliminal concept of building self-esteem and con- available. Admission includes entrance into the Zoo fidence for children through performing and speaking in and the keeper talks. Train rides and admission to Stingray Bay can be added at a discounted rate. Every front of others too. program includes a variety of animals and artifacts www.face4kids.org / 904-214-8044 / 1015 Atlantic that provide for hands-on learning. Children will learn Blvd #297 through interactions with people, wildlife and the environment. Bag lunches are available or, bring your own.

Project Listen In-school program available too Project Listen is the FREE Educational Music Outreach www.jacksonvillezoo.org / 904-757-4463 / 370 Zoo Program of Riverside Fine Arts Association. Dynamic Pkwy in-school performances engage students, sparking interest in unfamiliar musical genres. Project Listen The St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park serves all ages and continues growing to reach new The St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park offers audiences. a variety of programs to compliment any field trip or www.riversidefinearts.org/project-listen / 904-389curriculum. Programs can be adapted for any age 6222 / 1100 Stockton Street group or level. All programs are aligned with Sunshine ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS State Science Standards and include live animals. Reservations must be made at least two weeks in advance.

Celestial Farms www.alligatorfarm.com/ 904-824-3337, ext 29 / 999 The farm has multiple gardens that are growing and Anastasia Blvd, St Augustine changing with the needs of the farm and the people that they help. This includes a sensory garden with Tree Hill Nature Center plants to touch, taste, and smell; a community garden Tree Hill Nature Center is the perfect place to connect where volunteers and families in need work together to with nature for individuals and families, school field bring healthy food to the families’ tables; a whimsical trips, home schoolers, scout troops, business groups garden, populated with over-sized flowers made from and so much more. Tree Hill is home to more than teacups and saucers and friendly garden toads and 50 acres of trails, a Florida Natural History Museum, gnomes, where the children scatter seeds. butterfly and hummingbird gardens and native animals.

Stop by with your friends and family to explore our Every second Friday of the school year, they have a 50-acres and three ecosystems. Enjoy fresh air, plentihome school event that includes a hands on class that ful trails and an on-site butterfly house. reinforces what you are already teaching at home. They www.treehill.org / 904-724-4646 / 7152 Lone Star Rd also have a thirty minute free time for touring the farm, JUST FOR FUN playing on the playgrounds, picnicking, or networking.

They have horses, ponies, goats, pigs, and much more. www.celestialfarms.org / 904-647-5265 / 13958 Duval Adventure Landing Adventure Landing and Shipwreck Island Water Park is Road the largest Family Entertainment Center in Northeast Florida. Adventure Landing is the “Place to Play” for Diamond D Ranch all. Activities include Laser Tag, miniature golf, gaming The Diamond D Ranch is an actual working horse arcade, go-carts and more. and cattle ranch covering over 600 acres. Students www.adventurelanding.com/jaxbeach / 904-246-4386 learn the history of the ranch and how a real working / 1944 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach horse and cattle ranch works. Meet some of the cattle www.adventurelanding.com/jacksonville / 904-771up close and personal during their stop at the cattle 2804 / 4825 Blanding Blvd pasture. They will take a wagon ride and the final stop www.adventurelanding.com/staugustine / 904-827on the ride is at the petting zoo with Deer, Antelope, Goats, Sheep, Emus, and the star of the show, “Bubba” 9400 / 2780 State Rd 16, St. Augustine the American Bison buffalo. www.diamonddranchinc.com / 904-289-9331 / 5903- Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens offers edu1 Solomon Rd cational tours that allow for first-hand examination of original works of art. Trained docents engage students GTM Reserve’s Environmental Education Center in meaningful discussions in the galleries and historic Estuary Explorers (grades 2nd and 4th) educates stugardens, a hands-on art project and activities in Art dents about estuarine science through a combination of classroom curriculum and hands-on activities. In the Connections, the Museum’s interactive center. Tours are based on an integrated curriculum that supports state process, students gain knowledge about and respect for this important estuary and are empowered with the standards in the visual arts, math, science, language arts, and social studies. skills and desire to act as stewards of their environwww.cummer.org / 904-355-0630 / 829 Riverside Ave, ment. Elementary school groups that are not specifiJacksonville, FL 32204 cally 2nd or 4th grade please contact their Education Team for additional information.

Hands On Children’s Museum www.gtmnerr.org / 904-823-4500 / 505 Guana River The Hands On Children’s Museum has 20 hands-on Rd, Ponte Vedra Beach fun and educational exhibits for children ages 1-12. and body with cardio), and martial arts (focus on proper technique, balance and discipline of movements). Also, the children speak on a different word each week in terms of public speaking.

Page 18 • Jax4Kids.com • OCTOBER 2016

KIDS Space Center – You’re the Star Dress Up – Puppet Stage – Castle Stage – KIDS TV & Radio – 6’ Train & Train Tables- Laser Pegs- Toddlers First Adventures – Little Veterinarians – 50’s Café – KIDS Post Office – Maze Wall- Lil’ Winn Dixie – McDonald’s Ball Pit & Tubes – KIDS Bank – Emergency Rescue Station with a 12’ Fire Truck, an Ambulance & Police Car – S.S. Spinghetti Boat – McDonald’s Ball Pit & Climbing Tubes – Wheel Chair Basketball – Construction Gear Wall and more… www.handsonchildrensmuseum.org / 904-642-2688 / 8580 Beach Blvd Museum of Science and History (MOSH) Bring textbook learning to life with a field trip to MOSH. The opportunities for learning – and exploration – are limitless. All programs meet Sunshine State Standards.

So, whether your class is studying physical science, anatomy, habitats or astronomy, MOSH has you covered. www.themosh.org / 904-396-MOSH (6674) / 1025 Museum Circle O2B Kids Field trip themes offered for classes and groups include team building, rock wall climbing, science experiments, playground free play, big toy time trials, obstacle course, scavenger hunt, and art projects. Field trips are typically 3 hours long and run Mon and Fri mornings.

Groups may bring packed lunches or prepay for lunch from our cafe. Call for pricing and reservations. www.o2bkids.com / 904-264-4202 / 1821 Town Center Blvd, Fleming Island Rebounderz With rebounding floors and angled rebounding side walls, Rebounderz’s unique, arena style trampolines will have kids bouncing off the walls…literally! Their 24,000 square foot facility includes two huge arena style trampolines, a massive foam pit jumper, a basketball slam dunker, and a dedicated toddler jumping area.

It is an active field trip focused on fun and fitness. www.rebounderzjacksonville.com / 904-300-0070 / 14985 Old St. Augustine Rd Sally Animation Factory Tour Sally Corporation creates dark rides and animatronics for theme parks, museums, and attractions. Free onehour guided tours (must be at least 7 years old) include the production floor and the art and programming areas, and ends with an animatronics show. Offered Sept – June. Maximum of 30 includes students, teachers, and chaperons. Call to make a reservation. www.sallycorp.com/company/tours / 904-355-7100 / 745 West Forsyth St World Golf Hall of Fame IMAX Theater The IMAX Theater offers 3-D IMAX technology designed to make viewers feel as if they are part of the film!

Films rich in educational content meet common core and next generation curriculum standards and are accompanied by educator guides for pre- and postfield trips. Hosting groups of all sizes; including camps, schools and private parties. www.worldgolfimax.com / 904-940-4010 / 1 World Golf Place St, Augustine Visit Jax4Kids.com for more event listings.

EDUCATION Florida Prepaid College Board Giving Away 2-Year Florida College Plans to 10 Lucky Winners

T

he Florida Prepaid College Board is offering residents of the State of Florida the opportunity to win a free scholarship! Ten lucky people will win the chance to create a brighter future for their children or grandchildren by receiving a FREE 2-Year Florida College Plan. The contest runs from September 19, 2016, through October 23, 2016, at 11:59 p.m. The more times you participate, the more entries you receive and the better your chance to win!

Visit floridaprepaidscholarshipprogram.com for details and for your chance at this remarkable opportunity!

Winners of the Grand Prize will be selected from among all eligible` entries via a random drawing to be conducted on October 25, 2016, at 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

Ten (10) Grand Prize Winners: Each winner will receive a 2-Year Florida College Plan. A Florida Prepaid 2-Year Florida College Plan covers Tuition and other specified fees at any of Florida’s 28 State Colleges for 60 lower-division credit hours.

Winners of Grand Prizes will be notified by November 1, 2016.

In addition to the ten Grand Prize Winners, there will be 50 Secondary Prize Winners. Each Friday during the 5-week Sweepstakes period, 10 winners will be selected from all submissions to receive a prize package that includes a $25 Visa Cash Card, t-shirt, branded water bottle and car cling. Secondary prize winners will remain eligible to also win a 2-Year Florida College Plan Scholarship grand prize.

The sweepstakes is open to legal residents of the State of Florida with children or grandchildren between the ages of newborn through 8th grade who have fully and satisfactorily completed the scholarship entry requirements and are otherwise eligible to participate at time of entry.

To learn more about Florida Prepaid College Plans, visit myfloridaprepaid.com

OPEN HOUSE

Create a “ReaderFriendly” Home

H

ow is your child reading? Is he or she whizzing through assigned or pleasure reading with no problem, or is he or she having trouble comprehending texts?

will probably want to check out your library’s resources for kids. Our branch library recently started a Monday afternoon craft time for elementary age kids.

Broken down into various categories, the Maybe you’ve never thought about it, but there are many ways parents can create “reader-friendly” homes, which can entice your kids to read more.

Reading Books You Recommend to Each Other This is something I’ve done with my high school students for a long time, but I just started doing it with my daughter. If a student or my daughter recommends a book to me, I read it. For example, my daughter recently asked me to read “Sophie Simon Solves Them All” by Lisa Graff after she read it twice! I read it, and I loved it. I also loved the conversation we had after I read the book.

You can easily do the same thing. If your kids are currently reading assigned titles from school, you may want to read those stories or books with them. After you read a few of your kids’ recommendations, you can recommend books to your kids.

Reading is like any other skill set. It takes practice to get better. Just like improving in basketball means practicing drills, getting better in reading means spending time with eyes on text.

Reading Books Aloud One easy way to create a “reader-friendly” home is to read books to your kids out loud. This can be as simple as reading a picture book to your kids before bed or selecting a larger book and reading a chapter each day. Your kids may balk at the idea at first, but I want to encourage you to keep at it. Allow your kids to doodle or color while you read to them. Pause every now and then from the reading to ask questions about the text or make predictions about what’s coming next in the book.

For more ideas and research on the benefits of reading aloud to your kids, please check out “The Read-Aloud Handbook” by Jim Trelease.

Taking Trips to the Library We love our local library! We go at least once a week. I’m glad to see that my 8 year-old daughter feels comfortable there. She loves to choose her own books. If you’re not sure where to begin, try showing your child the different sections of the library, such as fiction, non-fiction, children’s books and teen books. You may also let them browse for books and sit and read awhile. You

te calaurea onal Bac m a r Internati g o Years Pr Primary

S, FCIS, FKC Accredited by AM

Montesso

ri Method

102 15th Street South Jacksonville Beach, FL 904.247.4577 www.thediscoveryschool.org

Listening to Books Audio books are so convenient. We love them!

We’ve listened to several series, such as The Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket in the car. Audio books work well for reluctant readers, especially if you find a suspenseful story or non-fiction text they are interested in. My daughter will ask to stay in the car once we’re parked outside a store in order to hear the end of a chapter or section. As an added bonus, your local branch library likely has many audio book options.

I hope you find these tips for creating a “readerfriendly” home helpful. I’d love to hear ways you have made your home more reader-friendly. My e-mail address is nancyleebethea@gmail.com j Nancy Lee Bethea

“Education is the most powerful tool which you can use to change the world.”

– Nelson Mandela

OCTOBER 2016 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 19

Page 20 • Jax4Kids.com • OCTOBER 2016

St. Johns County School District News Outstanding Principal and Assistant Named for Year Cynthia Williams, principal of St. Johns Technical High School and St. Johns Virtual School, has been selected as the school district’s nominee for the 2016-2017 Principal Achievement Award for Outstanding Leadership and Jeanette Murphy, assistant principal at Cunningham Creek Elementary School, was chosen as the district’s nominee for the 2016-2017 Outstanding Assistant Principal Achievement Award.

These programs honor principals and assistant principals who utilize teamwork and leadership skills to increase student performance, establish partnerships with parents and community members, and promote safe learning environments.

went on to represent the district at the state level.

She also worked in higher education supporting students in their quest for academic success at Florida A&M University and Bethune-Cookman University.

Technical High has expanded programs under Williams’ leadership. She was instrumental in adding sixth grade to the school in order to serve more students in a way that meets their career goals and learning styles and she implemented the Academy of Culinary Arts last year. The school graduation rate has nearly doubled under her tenure.

“Cynthia is a wonderful example of outstanding leadership and her focus to ensure an individual learning path for her students is admirable,” said Superintendent Dr. Joseph Joyner. “She is dedicated to ensuring that we hire the very best through her overwhelming commitment to the district’s recruitment efforts and it is not uncommon that she remains a mentor to new teachers years after their first days in the classroom.”

Awardees are also recognized for ethical leader- Williams holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree ship and their use of innovative technology as as well as certification in Educational Leadership well as their commitment to forging personal, from FAMU. social, economic, and cultural relationships in the Outstanding classroom, the school and the community to build Assistant Principal and support a learning organization focused on Nominee Jeanette student success.

Murphy has over 19 years of combined Williams has been the principal of Technical High educational since 2014 and was appointed the Virtual School experience. Before principal in 2016. With a career in education joining St. Johns spanning 27 years, Williams has served as the County in 2004 as a turnaround specialist and assistant principal at middle school math Technical and assistant principal at Pedro Menenteacher, she was an dez High School, as well as South Woods and elementary school Hastings elementary schools. From 1995-1999, teacher and reading specialist in Miami-Dade and she was the guidance counselor at Hastings Broward counties. In 2008, she became the Elementary School. She was selected as the St. assistant principal at John A. Crookshank Johns County Teacher of the Year in 1998 and

Finalists Named for Superintendent Post Four candidates have been identified by the St. Johns County school board as finalists for the position of superintendent of schools to replace retiring Joseph Joyner.

tor for Exceptional Student Education, Orlando, FL. – Tim Forson, retired deputy superintendent for operations, St. Johns County School District.

They are: – Mark T. Porter, superintendent of schools, Mon– Elizabeth Alves, Ed.D., assistant superintendent roe County School District, FL. / chief academic officer, Knox County Schools, TN. The school board will interview the finalists on – Vickie Cartwright, Ph.D., senior executive direc- Oct. 5,6,7 and make a decision on Oct. 11.

Elementary and went on to serve in this capacity at Fruit Cove Middle School before joining Cunningham Creek in 2015.

As an assistant principal Murphy has developed and guided a team to review and create a standards-based grading policy and served as a mentor to other assistant principals. Her love of professional development has spurred her to form a leadership cadre, perform technology demonstrations and create professional learning communities for paraprofessionals and new teachers.

“Jeanette takes the initiative to ensure that she becomes ingrained in the culture of a school,” said Joyner. “At CCES she has furthered efforts to recognize students through CHARACTER COUNTS! and streamlined processes at the school to be more efficient.”

Murphy holds a bachelor’s degree from Florida International University and a master’s degree from Barry University. She also has a certificate in Educational Leadership from Florida Atlantic University.

School Calendar Change Originally scheduled as a student holiday and teacher planning day, Monday, Oct. 17, will be regular school day to make up the school cancellation on Sept. 2 because of the storm.

Seniors, Mark Your Calendar

These two St. Johns County nominees have been forwarded to the state where they will compete at The district has announced the schedule of 2017 graduthe regional level. The statewide winner in each ation ceremonies: category will be announced later this year.

• Thursday, Jan. 26, 7 p.m., First Coast Technical College, Building C, FCTC Campus

Another Op’nin’, Another Show Under the direction of Maria Laird, the Allen D. Nease High School Drama Department will present the Tony award-winning Cole Porter musical Kiss Me Kate at 7 p.m. Oct. 27, 28 and 29 and 2 p.m. Oct. 30 in the high school’s performing arts center. Tickets are $10. See http://neaseshows.wixsite.com/ shows for more info.

• Wednesday, May 17, 7 p.m., St. Johns Technical High School, St. Augustine High School Auditorium.

• Thursday, May 18, 4:30 p.m., St Johns Virtual School, District Administrative Building Auditorium.

• Monday, May 22, 7:30 p.m., Pedro Menendez High School, St Augustine Amphitheatre.

• Tuesday, May 23, 7 p.m. First Coast Technical College, Building C, FCTC Campus.

• Tuesday, May 23, 7:30 p.m., St. Augustine High School, St Augustine Amphitheatre.

• Wednesday, May 24, 3 p.m., Ponte Vedra High School, University of North Florida.

• Wednesday, May 24, 7:30 p.m., Allen D. Nease High School, University of North Florida.

• Thursday, May 25, 3 p.m. Bartram Trail High School, University of North Florida.

• Thursday, May 25 7:30 p.m. Creekside High School, University of North Florida.

Follow us on Twitter

Visit St. Johns County Schools online at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/schools/ for more information.

OCTOBER 2016 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 21

Clay County School News Get Your Flu Shot Now

Get Juiced With the Oakleaf Band

Flu vaccines will be offered to students in every Clay County school this fall through the “Teach Flu a Lesson” partnership with Healthy Schools and the Clay County Health Department.

The Oakleaf High School Band is taking its fundraising campaign to another level. Not only will band members be raising money for equipment and uniforms, they will be helping children everywhere.

The Centers for Disease Control has recommended against using the “nasal spray” flu vaccine. The vaccines offered in schools this year will be administered by injection.

The schedule: Oct. 4 Keystone Heights Junior/Senior High School Keystone Heights Elementary School McRae Elementary School Bannerman Learning Center Fleming Island Elementary School Thunderbolt Elementary School Fleming Island High School Paterson Elementary School Clay High School Green Cove Springs Junior High School Charles E. Bennett Elementary School Doctors Inlet Elementary School Rideout Elementary School Orange Park Elementary School Argyle Elementary School Oct. 5 Orange Park Performing Arts Academy Oakleaf High School Plantation Oaks Elementary School Oakleaf Junior High School Clay Hill Elementary School Wilkinson Elementary School Wilkinson Junior High School Middleburg High School Middleburg Elementary School Coppergate Elementary School Ridgeview High School Tynes Elementary School Ridgeview Elementary School Oakleaf Village Elementary School W.E. Cherry Elementary School Oct. 6 Grove Park Elementary School Lakeside Elementary School Lakeside Junior High School Orange Park High School S. Bryan Jennings Elementary School Orange Park Junior High School Montclair Elementary School Swimming Pen Creek Elementary School Lake Asbury Elementary School Lake Asbury Junior High School Shadowlawn Elementary School Clay Charter Academy For more info, contact Healthy Schools at info@healtyschoolsllc.com or 1-800-5660596. www.oneclay.net OP/Middleburg (904) 272-8100 Green Cove Springs (904) 284-6500 Keystone Heights (888) 663-2529 TDD (904) 284-6584

of Burkina Faso.

The Breakfast Blend, which sells for $14.50 for a 12-ounce pouch, is a sweet and balanced coffee (50% Brazil Canaan Estate and 50% Columbia Under the direction of Jonathan Hall, the band’s 180 Ouebradon) with notes of brown sugar, berries and members have partnered with Jacksonville’s Bold toasted nuts. Through the Shropshire Music FounBean Coffee Roasters to sell its own brand of coffee: dation, every bag sold will help supply free musical Box 5. (“Box 5” is the highest score that a band instruments and instruction to children from the can attain in a competition.) world’s most war-torn locations: Uganda, Kosovo, Northern Ireland, and Syrian Refugee Centers.

“Box 5 is more than just coffee; it’s a movement,” their website states. They will sell three blends of The Apasionada Bold blend, which sells for $13.75 the high-end coffee from Central and South America for a 12-ounce pouch, is a “bold roast” (50% Brazilwith a portion of the money from the sales going to ian Cerrado, 50% Colombian Excelso) with notes of help children in a specific area. cherry, caramel and cocoa. Sales from this blend will help fund children’s music initiatives throughout The Signature Sweet blend, which sells for $14.75 North Florida. for a 12-ounce pouch, is a sturdy and rich coffee (50% Brazil Canaan Estate, 25% Colombia San Los Box 5 is a project still in the works. Currently all Naranjos, 25% Guatemala San Patricio El Limon) purchasing of products will be done through the with notes of chocolate, dried fruit and warming band members, staff and families, but they hope spices. Funds from the sale will go to “For Burkina”, to have the products in local stores soon. Go to an organization that among other things helps buy box5coffee.com for more info or to donate to the school supplies for the children in the African nation cause.

Schools Will Have New Superintendent Either Addison Davis, Keith Nichols or Rebekah Shively will replace school superintendent Charlie Van Zant Jr. after the Nov. 8 general election.

Davis defeated incumbent Van Zant in the Aug. 30 Republican primary.

He now faces Shively, a non-party affiliated candidate, and write-in candidate, Keith Nichols, a school bus driver, in the general election.

Shively, teacher of the year at Bannerman Learning Center in Green Cove Springs, holds a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction and a doctorate in educational leadership and organization. She has been a teacher for 25 years, the past 12 in Clay. She taught at Orange Park Junior High for 10 years before moving to Bannerman.

Nichols lives in Green Cove Springs. He retired from the Coast Guard in 1999 and has been a bus driver for Clay County Schools since 2007. He is married with three children.

Race Benefits College-Bound Seniors The Fifth annual Black Creek 5K run will be held Oct. Registration includes: 22 at the Middleburg Elementary School.

• USATF Sanctioned 5K run/walk; Sponsored by the Black Creek Bowl Assn., • Participation medals for all finishers; proceeds from the event provide supplemental • Towels for first 100 across the finish line college scholarships to deserving Middleburg High (donated by course sponsor, Mate-Huaman School seniors. All recipients will be selected each Dentistry); year based on their ability to meet application • Locally-designed 5K tee shirt; requirements, essay quality, need and teacher • Unique cypress knee trophies (top 3 male & recommendations. female); • Pulled pork sandwich & fruit for after run One will receive the David White Memorial fuel-up.

Scholarship, an award created to honor Clay County Sheriff’s Office Detective David White.

See blackcreekbowl.com to register.

White (Middleburg class of ‘95) was a Bronco Band member, military veteran, husband, father and role- The event includes a free one-mile Kids Fun Run. model. He died in the line-of-duty in February 2012 There will be free T-shirt to first 200 sign-ups. while fighting crime in his hometown.

Entrants will also enjoy the Runner’s Buffet and a special treat from sponsor McDonalds.

Since 2012, the association has funded over $40,000 in scholarships and local community No Pre-Registration is required. Registration opens programs. at 6:30 a.m. Oct. 22 at Middleburg Elementary School.

Samantha Stelmaszek, Lindsay Russell, Robert Hammock, Brittany Harrison, Brooke Searles, Connect with us!

Andrew Broderick Jr, Carson Roberts, Claudia Marie Quintero, Brandon Adkison, Crystal Harrison, Daniel Justino, and Courtney Bach received scholarships in 2016.

Page 22 • Jax4Kids.com • OCTOBER 2016

Davis has spent 17 years in Duval County schools. He is the district’s chief of schools, a position responsible for academics and discipline. He started as a teacher and has served as assistant principal and principal in high schools and middle schools. He has a master’s degree from Jacksonville University and lives in Oakleaf Plantation with his wife and two daughters. His brother, Mason Davis, is Duval’s assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction.

Little Library Honors Retired Teacher A tiny purple house has moved into the Island Forest neighborhood, but it’s not filled with people. It’s filled with books!

The Island Forest Little Free Library joins thousands of small, front-yard book exchanges globally that share books, bring people together and create a community of readers.

Located at the Island Forest Neighborhood Park, 6183 Bermuda Drive, the Little Free Library is the second of its kind in the Fleming Island area.

The Island Forest Little Free Library is dedicated to Mrs. Judy Robinson. Mrs. Robinson retired from the Clay County school system in 2016 and has spread her love of books to countless children, inspiring them to love reading.

Things to Do

NATURE

“The Science of …”:

New JU Video Magazine Collaborates With Zoo

S

cientific concepts will become clearer and the areas scientific community will become more accessible to residents with a unique new online digital video magazine produced by Jacksonville University in collaboration with the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens.

reaching an audience I wouldn’t reach in my class room,’’ he said. “I was thinking the region could stand to know a little more about what goes on in science and technology; the active people, the activities, the research that is going on that I think is underappreciated.’’

“The Science of …” explains, illustrates, and demystifies scientific concepts while telling stories on scientific topics in Northeast Florida while opening the fascinating world of science to all in an interesting and engaging way.

Ultimately, the program was funded through a grant via JU’s EPIC initiative. Once funding was secured Ouellette went about recruiting JU colleagues for production.

The focus of the magazine is to tell scientific stories through a series of individual videos which may be tied together in a theme. For example, the website’s initial offerings have two themes, sea turtle conservation which features one video of about 25 minutes and several related videos three to four minutes long, as well as Natural History of Dinosaurs, which has one eight-minute video and four shorter videos. The natural history videos were in collaboration with the Jacksonville Museum of Science & History and the curators of the recently closed Darwin & Dinosaur exhibit.

Future videos will cover current issues in the news, demonstrations of small experiments and scientific instruments and “how-to” videos aimed at middle school and high school students.

“We have a small selection of videos now, but the goal of the project is to be a resource for Northeast Florida,’’ said Dr. Anthony Ouellette, professor of Biology, who is the program director.

“We want people to be able to go there to learn and we want teachers to be able to use some of the videos and incorporate them into lesson plans. If we can work with teachers for them to incorporate some of this content so we can connect learning with local activities, local nature, local topics, that’s what we want.’’

The magazine came about almost two years ago after Ouellette appeared on the local television talk show, and saw a void in disseminating scientific information to the community.

“It occurred to me that on that show I was

The videos have original music and animations by Tony Steve, Eric Kunzendorf, and David Smith, and also have Media Services Manager Greg Minton leading the videography end. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens Conservation Program Officer Lucas Meers (JU ’12) is the lead for the Conservation series, and Associate Provost Lee Ann Clements is the lead for the Art series, with the science of glassblowing videos to come out later this semester.

“One of the things I’ve always enjoyed is taking complex topics and breaking them down into digestible, more easily understandable ways of thinking for my students,’’ Ouellette said. With nearly unlimited topic possibilities, Ouellette said new content will post throughout the year and plans are to get several topics up this semester.

“Ideas are the easy part,’’ he said. “In conservation, the next one is going to be the Species Survival Plan for Sumatran Tigers in the United States and will feature what the Jacksonville Zoo does with its new tiger exhibit and talk about how species survival plans are so important because of the dwindling numbers of that animal in their natural territory.’’

“We’re doing the videos (which already are being translated to Spanish with hopefully more languages to follow) with the idea they will be timeless,’’ Ouellette said. “They’re for people in Northeast Florida and we’re hoping they are of general interest to people all over the world.’’ j The science of. Ju.edu

Annual River Report Results Mixed

W

ith nitrogen levels down and grass beds coming back, but salinity up and algae blooms a vexing problem, the ninth annual State of the River Report on the lower St. Johns River Basin offers mixed results that suggest continued monitoring and research are needed.

New features of the report this year include the debut of an interactive, searchable website at sjrreport.com, as well as a Highlight section by guest contributor JU Geography Professor Ray Oldakowski on behaviors and opinions of area residents about the St. Johns River.

“Although nitrogen levels in the main stem continue to decrease, we are still experiencing nuisance algae blooms, and phosphorous remains elevated,” said Dr. Gerard Pinto, research scientist with Jacksonville University. “Air emissions of toxic chemicals continue to decrease, but this is not the case with our waters.

In the tributaries, fecal coliform continues to exceed water quality criteria. On a positive note, since monitoring was resumed, grass beds critical to the survival of fish and wildlife grew back significantly.”

A bright spot this year is the highest manatee count recorded in 22 years, Pinto noted. Numbers in local waters counted in aerial surveys surged to the highest single-day counts since studies by Jacksonville University researchers began more than two decades ago, rising 15 percent to 217 over the previous record of 189 in 2012. Pinto attributed much of the rise to stronger state regulations, more boating speed zones, educational outreach and raised awareness. j www.ju.edu/msri

Nature

Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day 2016 October 1, 9am Families are invited for the annual Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day. Any bike with wider tires will work fine. The event will be held in the vacant lot outside of the Yukon gate to Tillie K. Fowler Park. SORBA JAX will be set up next to the Yukon Baptist Church, and will provide pizza for lunch and have some swag to give away.

Tillie K. Fowler Park / 4552 120th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32244 / www.sorbajax.org

St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park / 904824-3337 / 999 Anastasia Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080 / www.alligatorfarm.com

2nd Annual Medicinal Plant Walk October 15, 1pm to 3pm Learn to identify more than a dozen local medicinal plants on this informative walk. The walk will be at the Beach and Peach Park in the Windy Hill Neighborhood. Each participant will also receive a field guide to give you details and pictures of the plants. Registration is $20. Call 904-726-7538 to register.

Beach and Peach Park / 904-726-7538 / 10013 Anders Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www. herbalwisdom

Family Fun Day & Camp Out Under the Stars October 22, 3pm This year’s Family Fun Day will feature caricature drawings, face painting, rock wall climbing, Captain Character’s Ventriloquist/Puppet Show, Prince Pele’s Polynesian Show and much more.

The evening ends with the showing of “Peanuts the Movie”. All afternoon and evening events are free and open to the public. For families participating in the Camp Out Under the Stars, Campers can reserve a camp site for a $10 fee. A free pancake breakfast is served on Sunday morning for overnight campers. To register, stop by the Recreation Office located in the Adele Grage Cultural Center. For more information call 904-247-5828.

Jack Russell Park / 800 Seminole Road, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 / www.coab.us

Marineland Lecture Series October 18, 10am to 11am This program is one of an ongoing lecture series presented on the third Tuesday of the month by the GTM Research Reserve and Marineland Dolphin Adventure. The series is designed to help learn more about your coastal natural world. These events are free. However, limited seating is availButterflyFest able. Tickets must be purchased online. Please October 1, 10am to 5pm bring your ticket to the Marineland gift shop at Explore the lives of bats, bees, birds and butterflies 9:45am on the day of the scheduled presentation at this fall’s ButterflyFest. ButterflyFest is an anto gain entry. Participants without a ticket will nual family-friendly festival to celebrate backyard not be allowed entry. This month’s topic is Pangowildlife with an emphasis on pollinators. Activilin Conservation. ties include photo workshops, Pollinator Parade, Marineland Dolphin Adventure / 9600 Ocean children’s area and more. There will also be a live Shore Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080 / www. butterfly release at 1pm. marineland.net Florida Museum / 352-846-2000 / 3215 Hull Road, SW 34th Street and Hull Road, Gainesville, Wild Gardening Gourmet-Mushroom Growing FL 32611 / www.flmnh.ufl.edu October 20, 6pm to 8pm Explore the basics of gourmet mushroom Owl Prowl cultivation. Mushrooms revered for culinary and October 14, 7:30pm medicinal qualities can easily be grown in your Join the County Naturalist for a new guided walk apartment, home or backyard. This workshop will on Friday October 14 at Canopy Shores Park, 804 cover the basics of mushroom lifecycles, various Christina Drive St. Augustine. The walk begins cultivation techniques, their ecological role and at 7:30pm. Participants will get to learn about potential. During class, participants will have the the creatures of the night, including the resident chance to buy your own kit, at a discounted price owls. Those who wish to attend should dress for of $15, that will give you the materials to grow the weather and bring a flashlight, bug spray, your own gourmet mushrooms. Normal kit price and water. For more information please contact is $30. Class for non-members is $15. Supply fee AyoLane Halusky at 904-209-0348 or email him is $15. at ahalusky@sjcfl.us.

Green Lotus Studios / 904-465-0985 / 2642-2 Canopy Shores Park / 904-209-0348 / 804 Chris- Rosselle St, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.localtina Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32086 / sjcfl.us endar.com/public/greenlotusstudios

Alligator Farm Zoo Camp October 17, 9am to 4pm The Alligator Farm hosts a single day Zoo Camp when school is out. Participants will make crafts, play games, view animal presentations and shows, trek through the zoo, talk with keepers, and more. Cost is $40 for members, $50 for nonmembers. Lunch is included. Register in advance to reserve your space. For children currently in K through 5th grade.

Visit Jax4Kids.com for more event listings.

OCTOBER 2016 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 23

Things to Do

SPECIAL NEEDS

At a Loss for Words: Helping Our Son Find His Voice O ur story began like many others. After an uneventful pregnancy and a relatively easy labor, I gave birth to a healthy 8 lb. 9 oz. boy on May 20, 2011. Our sweet Ryder progressed as all the charts said he should, met all the milestones, gained weight and height toward the top of the charts, and started walking at nine months. At around ten months, he began to say “cat” very clearly; since we have two cats, it was a natural first word for him. We were always complimented on what a quiet baby he was. In hindsight, we realized that he was very quiet, never really cooing or babbling as a baby. When Ryder was 14 months old, we moved from Boulder, Colorado to Jacksonville, Florida.

After our move Ryder stopped saying “cat” and began to say “meow” instead. It was cute at first, but then I began asking our new paediatrician about the substitution of words for sounds. I was told, “It’s not a big deal, don’t worry about it, he obviously understands everything.” Okay, I thought, she’s the professional, right? Over the next 18 months, Ryder gained a few words, including “momma,” “dada,” “Sasha” (his sister), “dog” (which he usually referred to as “woof”), and others, totalling 34 words when he was almost three. At every doctor’s appointment I brought up his lack of vocabulary. After a year of being told, “He’s a late talker, he understands everything, stop worrying,” we became accustomed to what I call the never-ending game of charades. He could walk me to his cup, and I knew what he wanted; I’d show him the milk or water and he would point. He could point to the movie he wanted to watch or the puzzle he wanted. I knew it wasn’t “normal,” but I had asked all of the questions, and in reality it had become our normal.

miserable. When his teachers and I met again, they suggested that he undergo speech screening.

In April 2014, I received the results of Ryder’s speech screening, covered with scribble marks, a check next to “Fail,” and a note that said, “Call me.” The speech pathologist said he didn’t have enough words for her to screen him. She told me he could point to every letter, number, and color, but he couldn’t say the word for each. Noting a gap between his expressive and his receptive speech, she said, “I think your son has something called apraxia; he needs a full evaluation immediately.” I’m not sure I heard anything she said after that, because I was frantically googling while she was still speaking. What was apraxia?

Would he be okay? What did this mean for him, for us, for our future? Would he ever speak? As I read the Apraxia “checklist,” I realized that he met every single mark. One of the biggest indicators of apraxia is a severe gap between expressive and receptive communication. How did our paediatrician not know this? I will never forget the tears and hopelessness of that day.

When we took Ryder for a full evaluation, the speech pathologist’s suspicions were confirmed.

We found a new paediatrician, who immediately confirmed the diagnosis and told us that out of those 34 words we clung to for hope, 85-90% would be considered unintelligible, meaning that only we understood Ryder.

Going home to learn everything we could, we discovered that Childhood Apraxia of Speech is found in about one out of every 1,000 kids. They understand everything going on around them, but they have a neurological motor planning disorder that prevents them from speaking. There is a wide range in severity, from being completely nonverbal to experiencing fluency issues, pitch Around October 2013, the conversation with the doctor changed. I was told that I talked too much changes, difficulty “planning” what they are for him, that I don’t make him work for it; that it’s trying to say and/or a combination of these because I have an older child, that I should refuse characteristics. To progress, children with apraxia to give him something until he says it. He was 2.5 require intense, frequent one-on-one speech years old. Again, I thought, she’s the professional, therapy. There is no matrix to follow, no cure, and no real light at the end of the tunnel. and I have to rely on her expertise. I had better change everything immediately, because I am Then we were dealt our second big blow: most hindering my child’s development! I felt like a complete failure. I met with Ryder’s teachers, who insurance companies deem this condition a “habilitive” or developmental delay, meaning that had also had expressed concern, and told them our child never had the skill, so he can’t receive what the doctor had said. They began to try the things the doctor had suggested. Not only did we rehab to regain it—or if it is developmental, he not gain any words, but everything also became a will grow out of it and we should refer to our school system for assistance. Calling every fight. I shouldn’t give him milk because he can’t government agency I could, I was told everything say it? Or dinner? Or a toy? Where was the line? from he’s too young, to he’s too old; you make too What kind of advice was this? Everyone was

Page 24 • Jax4Kids.com • OCTOBER 2016

much, you already have insurance, so we can’t accept you, and my favorites, “We have a ten-year wait list” or “We have closed our waitlist because we have no idea when we will reach the end.” This past year has been the hardest, loneliest, and most frightening year of my life. I can’t help wondering, does he have friends? How was his day? Do kids pick on him? What is school like for him? We have good and not so good days; some are truly unbearable. We make Ryder wear an ID bracelet and necklace, the idea being that he could become separated and not be able to even communicate.

In all of my research I stumbled upon the CASANA organization, which has become my lifeline for information, support, and scholarships for speech therapy. I took Ryder to Pittsburgh to see a specialist who is affiliated with CASANA, and I met the people who have made my family’s life a little easier. I was blown away by their small but dedicated staff. I learned that approximately 85% of the funds they raise goes back to the families, to research, and toward communication devices for some of the children. I returned to Jacksonville determined to raise awareness and make a difference. This is why I have started a walk for our community. These children truly suffer in silence and need all of us to help them find their voices. To learn more, visit apraxiakids.org.

Please join us November 19th for the 2nd annual First Coast Walk for Children with Apraxia. It will be held at The Bolles School on San Jose Boulevard, registration begins at 8:30 and the walk at 10 am. j

Michelle Leigh

“Every student can learn, just not the same day or in the same way.”

– George Evans

Special Needs

Believe Autism Dance/Art Classes • October 8 9:30am - 3 - 4 yrs 10:30am - 5 - 12 yrs 11:30 am - 13 and up Art rotation of 30 minutes and dance rotation of 30 minutes. Art activities will be new each week or a small art project that will be worked on week to week until complete. The dance rotation will consist of creative movement and social opportunities. Classes are taught by Crystal Thompson, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and ballet, tap, and jazz dancer. Classes cost $10 and are held at The Performers Academy. Space is limited.

To RSVP call or email believeautism@gmail.com.

The Performers Academy / 704-277-1884 / 3674 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, 32207 / www. believeautism.com Teaching Language to Children with Autism and other Developmental Disabilities October 13 - 14 • 9:00am – 3:00pm A free 2-day Workshop for parents and service providers of children with Autism and other Developmental Disabilities. Participants will gain a greater awareness of Behavior Analysis as a Science of Learning. Participants will acquire the understanding and application of the basic principles of Applied Behavior Analysis. The focus will be on utilizing B.F. Skinner’s analysis of Verbal Behavior to assist in the acquisition of language skills for children with developmental disabilities. Registration is MADATORY, the deadline is OCTOBER 7, 2016.

The Jericho School / 904-633-0760 / UNF, 12000 Alumni Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / www. thejerichoschool.org DSAJ Buddy Walk • October 22 11:30am – 1:30pm – Meet & Greet 2:00pm – 4:30pm – Walk & Entertainment This year’s Fall Family Festival takes place on Saturday, Oct 22nd, at the UF Developmental Pediatric Center. The festival is an awareness event for all families with special needs. There will be music, games, snacks, and balloon art as well as face painting, a magician, the Trick or Treat Lane, a performance by the drumline ensemble, and much more. Admission to this event is at no cost to the individual. Parents must supervise their children at all times.

Down Syndrome Association of Jacksonville / 904-353-6300 / Jacksonville Beach Seawalk Pavilion, 75 1st St N, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250/ www.dsajax.us Spirit of the ADA October 30 9:00am – 5:00pm Join the City of Jacksonville’s Disabled Services Division, The ILRC of Northeast Florida and the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens at the 9th annual Spirit of the ADA to celebrate October as Disability Awareness Month. Tickets are $2 and available to North Florida residents with a disability and their guests. Includes admission and lunch. Tickets are limited The IRLC / 904-399-8484 / Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens, 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218 / www.theilrc.org Visit Jax4Kids.com for more event listings.

SPECIAL NEEDS

Treating Anxiety, Stress, The Impact Down Syndrome and OCD with Cognitive Had on our Family D Behavior Therapy I

f you have a child who experiences anxiety, stress, depression and other mental health illnesses, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) has been highly recommended by mental health care professionals to help deal with these concerns.

This overview may help you decide if Cognitive Behavior Therapy might be right for your child.

What Is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, is a type of therapy that assumes that people’s emotions and feelings are connected to their behaviors (or the way that they act) and their feelings (or the way that they feel).

Goals of CBT The main premise of CBT is that if we can change how we think about a particular situation and/or modify how we behave, then we can change the way we feel!

CBT helps people to distinguish between their thoughts and their feelings. It encourages people to learn which thoughts are not helpful and how to create new, healthy thoughts instead.

When can CBT be used?

Different types of therapies are always being researched to determine which ones are effective. CBT is growing in popularity as it has been shown to help people with a variety of different concerns including anxiety, depression, addictions, eating disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and ObsessiveCompulsive Disorder (OCD). Another benefit of CBT is that it can be used with children, adolescents, teenagers, and adults!

Okay, so how do I change my thoughts?

Identifying Thoughts The first step in changing your thoughts is being able to identify your thoughts. As simple as this sounds, most of us do not focus on the thoughts that we are having. With CBT, people are often asked to write their thoughts down in a journal so that they pay more attention.

Recognizing Errors The problem with thoughts is that sometimes they are negative, irrational, or just plain wrong.

Sometimes these thinking errors are difficult to see. It is important for a person to examine their thoughts more closely.

In order to do so, it can be helpful to ask questions about the thought such as: • “Am I jumping to the worst scenario?”

• “Am I focusing on only the negative part of the event?”

• “Can I prove that this is true?”

• •

“What evidence supports my thought?”

“Is there any evidence that does not support my thought?”

Developing Alternative Thoughts Once the errors are recognized, then a person can move onto the next step which is one of the most important steps in helping a person feel better!

CBT encourages people to come up with alternative thoughts that are more rational and balanced.

For example, if a child says that “nobody at school likes them,” an alternative thought might be “I actually have several close friends at school.”

What are the behavioral techniques involved in CBT? One of the main behavioral components of CBT involves behavioral experiments which means that the person will test out their thoughts to determine if they are accurate. In these experiments, the person is asked to come up with what they think will happen, test it out in a real-life situation, and then look at the results of the experiment.

own syndrome came crashing into our lives just over nine years ago now, in the form of a little boy. It came running at us full throttle. No grace period, no training, no guidebook, no time to catch our breath. Like anything that changes the course of your life suddenly, we were shocked, and a bit fearful.

“What will it mean for him? How will his life be different? What should we expect?” These were all questions that ran through our minds. We didn’t know a lot about Down syndrome. Sure, we knew the occasional bagger, and maybe a cousin of a friend who had it. But really, what we knew was NOTHING about how our lives were already on the road to changing.

But slowly, it just became a part of our lives.

Something we had to take along for the ride. We spent time learning this new road, and are still are learning it as we go.

Caleb has shown us the gift of differentness. He has Down syndrome, and he’ll always have it. Like his cousin, who has another genetic anomaly, he wouldn’t be him without his extra chromosome. Would we take away Down syndrome from our lives if we could? No way. Would we like to lessen the impact of the characteristics of Ds some days? Sure. But no one ever said parenting, in general, was easy. All kids have their struggles, and their successes. And our experience with Down syndrome is different from

anyone else’s – just like parents of typically-developing kids. If you know one person with Down syndrome, you know one person with Down syndrome. My feeling is that DS has a spectrum, just like Autism, just like the general population. No two people are the same.

Just like his sister, Caleb has limits. Does his having Ds bring along with it more limits? Perhaps. Do we, as his parents, limit him? Subconsciously, I’m sure we do.

For safety reasons, primarily. But at the same time, we strive to expose him to many opportunities in life. As much as a nine-year-old can handle.

We’ve accepted, and even embraced it, at this point.

We recognize the uniqueness it brings to our lives. The joys, and the difficulties. It’s taught us that the world is a little bit bigger than our perspective allowed before.

It’s taught us to slow down a bit, and enjoy things that we might have been too busy for before. It’s taught us to be more accepting, and more appreciative. It touches so much of what we do now, but then again, just part of a new lifestyle, and day-to-day, is just part of who we all are now. I’m just happy he picked us to take along on his ride. j

Karen Prewitt

For instance, if a child has the thought that “nobody on the playground will play with me,” the child might be encouraged to test out that thought by asking children to play on the playground.

Behavioral experiments can be challenging for children to do on their own especially if their negative thoughts are very stubborn and they have difficulties seeing any alternative thought.

When this happens, engaging in role playing and rewarding children for their efforts is often very helpful.

Other behavioral techniques are really dependent on the concerns presented in therapy. Some other behavioral strategies may include teaching a person relaxation strategies to deal with anxiety, encouraging people to engage in pleasurable activities to target depressive symptoms, or exposing themselves to situations to target fears.

Please join us November 19th for the 2nd annual

j

Jill Driest, Ph.D. Owner | Licensed Psychologist Foundations Pediatrics Assessment and Treatment Center 904-370-3420 www.foundationspediatrics.com

Why ANGEL KIDS Pediatrics?

• SIX LOCATIONS

We know that selecting the right pediatrician is a very important and personal decision. We have many providers on staff to accommodate not only access to appointments when you need them, but also to find the provider “style” that will fit your family’s specific needs.

This is how we are working to build a healthier, more convenient pediatric experience in the Jacksonville area.

• EVENING HOURS • OPEN WEEKENDS • KID-APPROVED EXAM ROOMS • ALLERGY TESTING • NUMBING SPRAY FOR SHOTS • LACTATION COUNSELING • ON-SITE PHARMACY & STORE • NEW BABY SEMINARS

13241 Bartram Park Blvd, Unit 209 Jacksonville, FL 32258

12220 Atlantic Blvd, Suite 112 Jacksonville, FL 32225

1233 Lane Ave. South, Suite 21 Jacksonville, FL 32205

4123 South University Blvd., Suite E Jacksonville, FL 32225

13770 Beach Blvd, Unit 6 Jacksonville, FL 32224

774 State Road 13, Suite 6 St. Johns, FL 32259

To learn more, please visit us at www.myangelkids.com

OCTOBER 2016 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 25

TEENS

Things to Do Teens

Suicide Prevention

S

uicide is a serious concern. Each year, 42,773 Americans die by suicide. According to the 2015 CDC Suicide datasheet, suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death among kids age 10-14, and is the 2nd leading cause of death among persons aged 15-34 years. This article will explore the issue of suicidality, risk and protective factors, as well as to discuss prevention and an opportunity to get involved.

their plans.

There are also a number of protective factors that can lessen the impact of suicidality, as well. If some of these factors are not in place, therapists can work with families to put them into place.

Protective factors include a strong parent-child relationship, a sense of belonging at school, problem solving skills, self-awareness of emotions and understanding, reaching out and Suicidal behavior can be separated into groups by being involved socially with supportive people, severity. The least severe is suicidal thoughts, involvement in therapy, exercise and remaining such as “I wish this was all over” or “I wish I involved in activities, and restricted access to were dead.” Sometimes the thoughts only items that a person may use to harm themselves happen during times of intense stress and are with. There is hope. brief, sometimes the thoughts are persistent and happen repeatedly. They are disturbing to anyone There are a number of resources that can help if experiencing these thoughts, as well as to their someone is feeling suicidal. If you know of families and friends. Any child, teen or adult with anyone who needs help, they can call the such thoughts should seek treatment. However, National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 24/7 they are not as serious as if someone has a plan at 1-800-273-TALK Boys Town also has a to follow through on those thoughts, or if they National Hotline (1-800-448-3000) to support actually attempt—both of which calls for more parents or kids with a number of issues, including immediate attention. Among students in grades behavior concerns and/or suicidality. The CDC has 9-12 in the U.S. during 2013, 17% of students a free and comprehensive web resource for teens seriously considered attempting suicide (22.4% in schools, although parents may also benefit of females and 11.6% of males), while 13.6% of from it as well http://store.samhsa.gov/product/ students made a plan about how they would SMA12-4669 attempt suicide, and 8.0% of students in the sample attempted suicide one or more times in There is hope and Keystone would gladly help the previous 12 months. support you or your family with this issue if you need it. www.keystonebehavioral.com/appointSuicidality is more likely to happen in the context ments j of depression, and there are both risk as well as Andrew Scherbarth, Ph.D., BCBA-D protective factors to consider. Depressive characteristics include a negative outlook on life, Licensed Psychologist/ Board Certified Behavior Analyst disturbed eating or sleeping, feelings of guilt or shame, irritability or sadness much of the day on Keystone Behavioral Pediatrics most days—even if only for a couple weeks. Risk 6867 Southpoint Drive North, Suite 106 Jacksonville, FL 32258 factors include if a person has been bullied or 904.619.6071 stigmatized, if there is a family history of depression or suicidality, loneliness, if they know of someone who has attempted, impulsive or reckless behavior, substance/alcohol use, and if they have access to items or areas to carry out

“The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.”

– B.B. King

Page 26 • Jax4Kids.com • OCTOBER 2016

Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day 2016 October 1, 9am Families are invited for the annual Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day. Any bike with wider tires will work fine. The event will be held in the vacant lot outside of the Yukon gate to Tillie K. Fowler Park. SORBA JAX will be set up next to the Yukon Baptist Church, and will provide pizza for lunch and have some swag to give away.

Tillie K. Fowler Park / 4552 120th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32244 / www.sorbajax.org

St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park / 904824-3337 / 999 Anastasia Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080 / www.alligatorfarm.com

2nd Annual Medicinal Plant Walk October 15, 1pm to 3pm Learn to identify more than a dozen local medicinal plants on this informative walk. The walk will be at the Beach and Peach Park in the Windy Hill Neighborhood. Each participant will also receive a field guide to give you details and pictures of the plants. Registration is $20. Call 904-726-7538 to register.

Beach and Peach Park / 904-726-7538 / 10013 Anders Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www. herbalwisdom

Family Fun Day & Camp Out Under the Stars October 22, 3pm This year’s Family Fun Day will feature caricature drawings, face painting, rock wall climbing, Captain Character’s Ventriloquist/Puppet Show, Prince Pele’s Polynesian Show and much more.

The evening ends with the showing of “Peanuts the Movie”. All afternoon and evening events are free and open to the public. For families participating in the Camp Out Under the Stars, Campers can reserve a camp site for a $10 fee. A free pancake breakfast is served on Sunday morning for overnight campers. To register, stop by the Recreation Office located in the Adele Grage Cultural Center. For more information call 904-247-5828.

Jack Russell Park / 800 Seminole Road, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 / www.coab.us

Marineland Lecture Series October 18, 10am to 11am This program is one of an ongoing lecture series presented on the third Tuesday of the month by the GTM Research Reserve and Marineland Dolphin Adventure. The series is designed to help learn more about your coastal natural world. These events are free. However, limited seating is availButterflyFest able. Tickets must be purchased online. Please October 1, 10am to 5pm bring your ticket to the Marineland gift shop at Explore the lives of bats, bees, birds and butterflies 9:45am on the day of the scheduled presentation at this fall’sButterflyFest. ButterflyFest is an anto gain entry. Participants without a ticket will nual family-friendly festival to celebrate backyard not be allowed entry. This month’s topic is Pangowildlife with an emphasis on pollinators. Activilin Conservation. ties include photo workshops, Pollinator Parade, Marineland Dolphin Adventure / 9600 Ocean children’s area and more. There will also be a live Shore Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080 / www. butterfly release at 1pm. marineland.net Florida Museum / 352-846-2000 / 3215 Hull Road, SW 34th Street and Hull Road, Gainesville, Wild Gardening Gourmet-Mushroom Growing FL 32611 / www.flmnh.ufl.edu October 20, 6pm to 8pm Explore the basics of gourmet mushroom Owl Prowl cultivation. Mushrooms revered for culinary and October 14, 7:30pm medicinal qualities can easily be grown in your Join the County Naturalist for a new guided walk apartment, home or backyard. This workshop will on Friday October 14 at Canopy Shores Park, 804 cover the basics of mushroom lifecycles, various Christina Drive St. Augustine. The walk begins cultivation techniques, their ecological role and at 7:30pm. Participants will get to learn about potential. During class, participants will have the the creatures of the night, including the resident chance to buy your own kit, at a discounted price owls. Those who wish to attend should dress for of $15, that will give you the materials to grow the weather and bring a flashlight, bug spray, your own gourmet mushrooms. Normal kit price and water. For more information please contact is $30. Class for non-members is $15. Supply fee AyoLane Halusky at 904-209-0348 or email him is $15. at ahalusky@sjcfl.us.

Green Lotus Studios / 904-465-0985 / 2642-2 Canopy Shores Park / 904-209-0348 / 804 Chris- Rosselle St, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / www.localtina Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32086 / sjcfl.us endar.com/public/greenlotusstudios

Alligator Farm Zoo Camp October 17, 9am to 4pm The Alligator Farm hosts a single day Zoo Camp when school is out. Participants will make crafts, play games, view animal presentations and shows, trek through the zoo, talk with keepers, and more. Cost is $40 for members, $50 for nonmembers. Lunch is included. Register in advance to reserve your space. For children currently in K through 5th grade.

Visit Jax4Kids.com for more event listings.

TEENS

Auto Accidents are Leading Cause of Teen Deaths

M

otor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for 15- to 19-year-olds in the United States. National Teen Driver Safety Week (Oct. 16-22) is dedicated to raising awareness and seeking solutions to preventable teen deaths and injuries on the road.

Parents need to take the time to talk with their kids about the many dangers of driving. These dangers are covered in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s “5 to Drive” campaign, which highlights the five necessary rules that teen drivers need to follow to stay safe behind the wheel.

The “5 to Drive” rules for parents to share with their teens are:

driver training education have led to a dangerous gap between being licensed and being skilled.

A new approach to traditional drivers’ education is offered by Jacksonville’s Apex Resource Center.

Designed for students in all phases of the learning-to-drive process; pre-permit, permit, and newly licensed, its innovative curriculum and technology provides new drivers with hands-on learning and deliberate crash avoidance practice.

Using seven learning styles – visual, auditory, verbal, tactile, logical, social and solitary, the instruction is personalized for each student and integrates the family with a complete training plan.

Apex trains using a virtual vehicle (AVV) with cutting-edge software and a full motion cockpit that behaves and reacts the same as an actual vehicle on the road. The driver has complete control of the vehicle, allowing them to learn and safely practice the steering, accelerating and braking techniques they need to drive with skill without risk or fear. The sessions are recorded and the new drivers are able to analyze and identify areas for improvement, then drive again to integrate the feedback. The process of comparing and analyzing recorded drives assists the driver in becoming self-aware in a low-stress environment, enhancing their ability to learn and improve. Sessions progress from steering, braking and turning to defensive driving and adverse conditions such as fog, rain, snow, ice.

Focusing on the critical areas of mindset, car control, maintaining space and hazard response.

1. No Drinking and Driving— Almost one out of five (19 percent) of the young drivers (15 to 19 years old) involved in fatal crashes have been drinking, even though they are too young to legally buy or possess alcohol.

2. Buckle Up. Every Trip. Every Time. Front Seat and Back – Sixty-four percent of all the young (13- to 19-year-old) passengers of teen drivers who die in motor vehicle crashes aren’t restrained.

3. Stop Speeding Before It Stops You – Nearly one-third (29 percent) of teen drivers involved in a fatal crash are speeding.

4. No More Than One Passenger at a Time – The risk of a fatal crash goes up with each additional passenger.

5. Put It Down. One Text or Call Could Wreck It All. The age group of 15 to 19 years old has the highest percentage of drivers who Crash rates of teen drivers who trained in an are distracted by cell phone use and involved instrumented vehicle, similar to the AVV, were rein a fatal crash. duced by 77% compared to the general teen driver population.

Updated statistics on distracteddriveraccidents. com show that 82% of American teenagers own Graduates of the Virtual Vehicle program get a a cell phone, and use it regularly to call and text free in-car evaluation and state driving test message. And every day, 11 teenagers die review. Apex also offers tutorials with profesbecause they were texting while driving. Most sional, advanced driver training presented in teenagers understand the consequences of short videos for quick and easy viewing. They texting and driving, but 35% of them admitted also include practice driving tips for parents as that they do it anyway. Of all the teenagers ever well as providing resources that include a family involved in fatal accidents every year, 21% were driving agreement – guidance and feedback that using a cell phone at the time of the accident. gives parents peace of mind.

Teen drivers have a 400% higher chance of being in a car crash when texting while driving than See its website apexresourcecenter.com for adults. Twenty-five percent of teens respond to at pricing and to schedule a free test drive. j least one text while driving and most admit they apexresourcecenter.com have entire conversations over text message platforms while driving.

To help overcome these distressing stats, parents can also seek additional training for youngsters on how to make the kind of choices that could one day save their lives. Outdated approaches to

OCTOBER 2016 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 27

PETS

Ease Older Cats’ Arthritis

I

t’s well-known that dogs tend to suffer from arthritis as they get on in years, but cats generally refuse to show weakness, and older cats with joint pain are no exception. This means that arthritic kitties may not immediately get the attention they need. Once you realize that your older cat needs some pain relief, however, there are several ways you can help. Those with arthritic joints may find it difficult to climb or jump, so make sure that there are sleeping places, food bowls, water and a litter box at ground level. Providing ramps can also help stiff felines access their favorite spots.

It’s important to control your cat’s diet for several reasons, but one of the most basic is to ensure that it’s not carrying too much weight on tender joints. Supplements that can help aching joints include essential fatty acids to reduce inflammation, and glucosamine and chondroitin to promote

Things to Do Family Pet Fair and Blessing of the Pets October 1, 10am to 2pm St. Philip Neri Church hosts the annual Family Pet Fair and Blessing of the Pets. There will be a free charity “Laundromutt”, silent auction, pet costume contest, food for people and pets, “ask the trainer”, adoptable dogs and cats, a Blessing of the Pets, and more.

Fletcher Park / 904-229-9472 / 1652 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / nerichurch.org Mega Pet Adoption Event October 1 – 2, 10am to 6pm Over 1,000 adoptable puppies, kittens, dogs and cats will be available from local shelters and rescues. $20 adoption fee includes spay/neuter, microchip, vaccines, and city license. Free entry and free parking.

Jacksonville Fairgrounds / 904-425-0005 / 510 Fairgrounds Place, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www. fcnmhp.org Herbal Animal Care • October 8, 10am to 2pm Join all of the animal lovers for this workshop, and learn to treat your furry friends with natural solutions for their health. Participants will learn how to treat fleas, heart worms and more in this informative class.

You will even learn which herbs are linked to a longer life for the animals you love. This workshop will teach you natural health care for domestic pets as well as livestock. Each participant will create two pet friendly remedies to take home (approximately a 90-120 day supply.) Please bring a sack lunch. Registration $40 (includes all materials). Instructor is Cindy Whitley, master herbalist.

Maggie’s Herb Farm / 904-829-0722 / 11400 County Road 13-N, St. Augustine, FL 32092 / maggiesherbfarm.com Pet CPR & First Aid • October 8, 10am to 2pm Pet Life Saver is offering a Pet CPR & First Aid class. Topics covered will include restraining & muzzling, primary pet assessment, bleeding & shock management, snout-to-tail assessment™, choking protocols, canine & Feline CPR, rescue breathing, and more. Each student will receive a PetSaver™ handbook, and upon successful completion each student will receive a certificate of completion. Cost is $149; $50 from each student donated to K9s For Warriors.

cartilage building.

Encourage gentle exercise and free joint movement by playing with your cat, but be careful not to encourage behaviors such as jumping that could jar the joints. Massage or joint manipulation may help your cat be more comfortable almost immediately on treatment, though it is not a long-term solution.

Spend time grooming your cat, including clipping its nails if necessary. Proper cleaning may be hard for an arthritic cat, and being pampered and gently stroked as you groom it adds pleasure to the experience. The sooner you can tell your cat is suffering, the sooner you can do something about it. j petpace.com

Pet Events Guardian Title / 904-635-3665 / 13400 Sutton Park Dr S, Jacksonville, FL 32225 / petlifesaverjax.com Pars Fore Paws • October 10, 1pm to 5pm Clay Humane is sponsoring the 10th Annual “Pars Fore Paws” Golf Tournament on Monday, October 10, 2016. There will be a shotgun start at 1pm at the Eagle Landing Golf Club. All proceeds support Clay Humane. Registration entry fee includes 18-holes of golf with cart; bag service, complimentary driving range balls, lunch, dinner, and prizes. Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place scores, Longest Drive, Longest Putt, and Closest to the Pin. There will be drawings for prizes, a 50/50 Raffle, and a Putting Contest. Individual registration is $100, or $360 for a group of four.

Eagle Landing Golf Club / 3973 Eagle Landing Parkway, Orange Park, FL 32065 / www.clayhumane.org Yappy Hour HOWL-o-Ween October 16, 2pm to 5pm Dogs and their families are invited for a Yappy Hour HOWL-o-Ween. There will be Trick-or-TREATing, a costume contest, pet expo, games, prizes, and more. You must register your dog by 3pm for the costume contest; limited space is available. The contest takes place at 3:30pm.

Jacksonville Landing / 904-353-1188 / 2 W Independent Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.jacksonvillelanding.com DogFest Jacksonville 2016 October 22, 12:30pm The Jacksonville group of Canine Companions for Independence is proud to present the 4th annual DogFest at the Riverside Arts Market. Bring your children and your dogs, and meet the volunteers and graduates who reside in the Jacksonville area.

Attendees will enjoy music, food, lots of shopping, fun and games for all ages, all while supporting the life-changing mission of Canine Companions for Independence. Registration starts at 10am, and the walk starts at 12:30pm. Other activities include a photo booth, doggie crafts, dog games, kids games, and more. Visit website for registration, and fundraising information.

Riverside Arts Market / 715 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32204 / support.cci.org

Page 28 • Jax4Kids.com • OCTOBER 2016

Tail Wagging has Many Meanings D

o you think that your pet pal wags his tail because he’s happy to see you? You may be correct if that tail is pulling to the right– but more on that later!

A dog’s tail is just one of his methods of communication, and certain types of wags indicate specific emotions. But a dog’s tail has many other uses, too. Here are some fun facts that might help you figure out what your dog is doing or saying with his tail!

FACT #1 A broad swishing wag is friendly and unchallenging, while a slight wag when meeting someone new is a tentative “wait and see” greeting. A slow wag of the tail held at half-mast is neutral, indicating that the dog is neither excited nor anxious, but a high-sitting tail making rapid back and forth motions can be a sign of a threat.

FACT #2 The left brain controls the right side of the body, and the right brain controls the left side of the body. So positive feelings pull a dog’s tail to the right and negative feelings pull it to the left. Dogs can actually pick up this wagging direction. Right wagging indicates happiness and means they are approachable. Leaning left could indicate anxiety or fear. Lefty wagers should be approached with caution.

FACT #3 Dogs don’t wag their tails when they are alone.

Research has proven that wagging is behavior they only exhibit when around others.

FACT #4 Tail shaking is an acquired skill puppies learn when they are old enough to start communicating. This usually starts at about the 45-days-old mark with “tail talking” practiced with mom and any siblings or companion dogs.

FACT #5 Dogs chase their own tails for a variety of reasons. It might be curiosity, exercise or just an amusing activity. It could even be part of their natural predatory instinct. If your dog chases his tail excessively, check first for fleas! Some

animal experts think that dogs who regularly run in circles chasing their own tails might be suffering from OCD. FACT #6 Dogs’ tails have evolved into appendages that help them with balance. Athletic breeds use the tail as a counter-balance when running, leaping and turning. Even dogs with short or docked tails can be balanced, especially if they’ve had that shorter tail since puppyhood. If a dog injures or loses part of the tail in adulthood, their athletic skills will change as the animal is thrown off their normal balance. Luckily dogs can adjust and relearn those skills over time.

FACT #7 Tails are awesome help to swimming dogs!

Some dogs are able to use their tails as a rudder in the water, and retriever breeds are especially good at this.

FACT #8 A dog’s tail helps them spread their scent. Alpha dogs that hold their tails high can release more scent from the anal glands. Scared dogs that hold their tails between their legs are submissively covering their scent glands. The swoosh of a tail helps fan the scent into the air.

FACT #9 The tail is an extension of the spine, but it’s far more flexible. It’s also more exposed and active, so there’s a greater chance of injury. A dog’s tail has its own set of muscles, anchors and discs.

FACT #10 The term “hair of the dog” originally referred to the tail. Roman author and naturalist Pliny the Elder, born 23 AD, believed that the way to get rid of rabies was to put ashes in the wound, and those ashes were supposed to come from the tail hair of the biting dog! We have no proof that his method was ever tested, but plucking hair from the tail of a rabid animal doesn’t seem like a safe or smart idea.j petpace.com

“Think left and think right, and think low and think high. Oh, the thinks you can think up if only you try.”

– Dr. Seuss

THINGS TO DO: FALL/HALLOWEEN EVENTS Haunt Nights • Thru October 31 Haunts Nights features 4 Haunted Houses, and features Northeast Florida’s only 3D Haunted House, Apocalypse 3D: Clown Takeover.

Tickets: COMBO HAUNT: $25.99 Includes All 4 Haunts Available October 7th - 31st.

COMBO HAUNT & ATTRACTION: $29.99 Includes All 4 Haunts (Choose from a Mini Golf Game or Go-Kart Ride) Available October 7th - 31st.

Adventure Landing, Beaches / 904-246-4386 / 1944 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / www. hauntnights.com Isle of Faith Pumpkin Patch • Thru October 31 Pumpkin Patch Open Daily September 30 thru October 31. Saturdays, 10am to 8pm and Sunday thru Friday, 12noon to 8pm. There will be children’s play areas, lots of photo ops, and lots of pumpkins. Admission Free. Pumpkins sold by donation. Their annual Trunk Or Treat Halloween Alternative starts at 6pm on October 30.

Isle of Faith UMC / 904-221-1700 / 1821 San Pablo Road S, Jacksonville, FL 32224 / iofumc.org Christ United Methodist Church Pumpkin Patch Thru October 31 Christ United Methodist Church hosts a pumpkin patch through October 31. Hours are 10am to 8pm except on Sundays times are 12noon to 8pm.

Christ United Methodist Church / 904-249-5370 / 400 Penman Road, Neptune Beach, FL 32266 / christumcnb.org Sweet Pete’s Smashing Pumpkins Class October 1, 5, 15, 19, 29, 4pm to 5pm Sweet Pete’s hosts their annual Halloween class.

Participants will enjoy a tempering demonstration and make a three-dimensional chocolate jack-olatern. Guest will choose from Sweet Pete’s signature candies to fill the Jack O Lanterns. Smash the pumpkins at home to enjoy the chocolates and the treats. This class is available September thru October. Only paid participants may enter candy making room. Children under the age of 15 must be accompanied by a paid adult. Cost is $18.

Sweet Pete’s Candy / 904-376-7161 / 400 N Hogan Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.sweetpetescandy.com Our Lady of Good Counsel Pumpkin Patch 2016 October 2 – 31 The annual Pumpkin Patch will be open at Our Lady of Good Counsel.

Regular Hours: Weekdays: 11am till 7pm Fridays: 11am till 9pm Saturdays: 9am till 9pm Sundays: 9am till 5pm Our Lady of Good Counsel / 904-584-2456 / 5950 State Road 16, St. Augustine, FL 32092 / olgc-church. org Sykes and Cooper Farms Corn Maze October 8 thru October 30 Admission tickets include the following attractions: Corn Maze, Hayride, Playgounds, Cow Milking Station, Duck Races, Cow Train and Farm Animals. *Pumpkins, Sunflowers, Corn Popper and Corn Cannon sold separately.

October 8th thru October 30th Friday: 5pm to 10pm* Saturday: 10am to 10pm* Sunday: 11am to 5pm* *Last ticket sold 1 hour prior to closing.

Admission: Children 2 & under: Free General Admission (ages 3 to 64): $10

Senior Citizens (65+): $8 Military (with ID): $8 Sykes and Cooper Farms / 904-692-1370 / 5995 Brough Rd , Elkton, FL 32033 / www.sycofarms.com Sykes and Cooper 2016 Homeschool Day October 5, 9am to 2pm The official 2016 Homeschool Day will be Wednesday, October 5th from 9am to 2pm. SJCPLS Bookmobile will be on-site as well. Reservations are required and space is limited. Adult and student (Ages 3+) admission is $6.

Sykes and Cooper Farms / 904- 692-1370 / 5995 Brough Rd, Elkton, FL 32033 / www.sycofarms.com Atlantic Beach October Festival • October 8, 11am The City of Atlantic Beach hosts their Annual Fish Fry to celebrate the fall season. There will be free food, music, a clothing give away, and games. Free.

Donner Park / 904-247-5828 / 2072 George Street, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 / fl-atlanticbeach.civicplus. com Spooktacular at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens October 14 – 16, 21 – 23, 27 – 31, 6:30pm to 10pm Spooktacular is a safe and exciting Halloween adventure for kids of all ages. Celebrate Spooktacular with Charlie Brown and the Great Pumpkin Patch, Wizard of Oz in Range of the Jaguar, The Lands of Far Far Away, Peter Pan’s Neverland, DJs spinning kid-friendly Halloween music, The Great Lawn with bounce houses, Special Spooktacular food menus in each of the Zoo’s two restaurants, Thousands of jack o’lanterns, Select animal exhibits including giraffes, bobcats, alligators and jaguars, Candy stations throughout the Zoo, and Scare Zones: The Witch’s Castle, The Dragon’s Lair and Land of the Zombie (not recommended for the faint of heart).

Cost: Sunday - Thursday: $7 Members | $9 Non-Members; Friday - Saturday & Halloween: $12 Members | $14 Non-Members. There is $1 discount for tickets purchased online.

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, 904-757-4463 / 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218 / spooktacular. jacksonvillezoo.org Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary Haunted Forest October 14, 21, 28, 5pm to 9pm October 15, 22, 29, 3pm to 9pm October 16, 1pm to 5pm The forest comes alive with monsters, zombies, and more. For something a little less scary, there will be a Ghoul Garden located by the foxes or, kids can stop by the Laboratory for a fun, gooey, hands-on experience. There will be a clean-up station available. And of course, there will be plenty of time to view the animals. Knowledgeable volunteers will be present throughout the sanctuary to tell you all about the residents and answer any questions you may have.

Themed make and take crafts will be offered under the main tent for kids. Try out games like Guess the Number of Eyeballs in the Jar and you may win a family pass to the sanctuary. As you exit, all kids will receive a bag of candy to take home. Costumes are encouraged, but not required. The Costume Contest will take place on Sunday, October 16th at 3pm. The winner will receive a 6-Visit Pass to the sanctuary.

Strollers and cameras welcome. Reservations are not required but it’s strongly suggested that you purchase your tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line. Tickets may be pre-purchased up to 24 hours prior to the event. Tickets may also be purchased at the ranch – cash and credit cards are accepted. Tickets are non-refundable. Ticket prices are: Adults: $10; Children (3-11): $5; 2 & Under: Free. Please Note: usual Friday and Saturday night feeding events will NOT take place during Haunted Forest weekends.

Catty Shack Ranch / 904-757-3603 / 1860 Starratt Road, Jacksonville, FL 32226 / www.cattyshack.org

12th Annual Halloween Doors & More: Imagine October 15, 2pm to 7pm Halloween Doors and More is a not-so-spooky soiree for the whole family. There will be more than 20 zones for food, fun and entertainment. Attendees are asked to come in costume. Admission costs are $100 adults, and $50 children (under 2 years free). Proceeds benefit children with complex illnesses served by Community PedsCare, the pediatric palliative and hospice care program of Community Hospice of Northeast Florida.

Jacksonville Fairgrounds / 510 Fairgrounds Place, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / communityhospice.com Howls & Haystacks Fall Festival October 15, 11am to 2pm Seabreeze Elementary hosts their annual Howls & Haystacks Fall Festival. There will be pony rides, a petting zoo, bouncy houses, games, food booths, food trucks, a SWAT team obstacle course, dunking booth, and more. This is a community wide event and everyone is welcome to attend.

Seabreeze Elementary School / 1400 Seabreeze Avenue, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 / www. seabreezeelementary.com Southside UMC Fall Fest • October 16, 4pm to 7pm Southside United Methodist Church hosts a classic fall festival from 4pm to 7pm.

Southside UMC / 904-396-2676 / 3120 Hendricks Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32207 / www.sumcjax.org CrossRoad Church UMC Fall Festival October 21, 6pm to 8pm CrossRoad United Methodist Church hosts their annual Fall Festival with games, bounce houses, slides, live music, and more. All activities are free except the concessions. Food will be available for purchase.

CrossRoad United Methodist Church / 904-448-1288 / 10005 Gate Parkway N, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www. crcumc.org Kirkwood Presbyterian Church Fall Family Festival October 22, 10am to 4pm Kirkwood Presbyterian Church hosts a free Family Fall Festival. There will be vendors, children’s activities, and more.

Kirkwood Presbyterian Church / 904-777-0006 / 8701 Argyle Forest Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32244 / newkirkwoodchurch.org River of Life’s Fall Festival • October 22, 11am to 4pm There will be complimentary Hot Dogs, Chips, Drinks, Cotton Candy, Snow Cones, Popcorn, Hay Rides, Pony Rides (11am-1:45pm), Train Rides (12noon-3pm), 2 Bouncy Houses, Face Painting, Balloon Art, local Entertainment and of course Pumpkins. (pumpkins, gourds and hay are for purchase only). Parking is at the Julington Creek Elementary School where you can take a hay ride or a golf cart to the festival. Handicapped parking is in the Church parking lot.

River of Life United Methodist Church / 904-230-2955 / 2600 Race Track Rd, St. Johns, FL 32259 / www. rolumc.com St. Andrew’s Fall Festival & Craft Fair October 22, 10am to 3pm St.Andrew’s Episcopal Church hosts their annual fall festival and craft fair. There will be vendors selling unique crafts, decor, children’s items, and more. In addition to the Craft Fair, there will be inflatables, facepainting, carnival games, petting zoo, plus music, and food for purchase. Free admission and parking.

Visit

St.Andrew’s Episcopal Church / 7801 Lone Star Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32211 / www.standrewsjax.com Creepy Crooked River • October 29, 5pm Enjoy trick-or-treating, hayrides, a creepy Nature Center, and campground decorating contest. Everyone in the campground who participates will receive a discount on their stay. Also, don’t forget candy to hand out to the goolish goblins and monsters looking for candy.

The creepy Nature Center will include games & activities for the entire family. The campsite with the best decorations will win a prize. Admission: $3 per person; Parking fee: $5.

Crooked River State Park / 912-882-5256 / 6222 Charlie Smith Senior Highway, St. Marys, GA 31558 / gastateparks.org Harry Potter Halloween at B&N October 29, 5pm to 8pm Get into the Halloween spirit on October 29th for magical and spooky fun, including Harry Potter activities and trivia, a book signing with local paranormal authors Doug Dillon (‘St. Augustine’ trilogy) and Dave Lapham (Ghosts of St. Augustine), ghost hunter and tour group exhibits and much more. Costumes are encouraged.

Barnes and Noble / 904-886-9705 / 11112 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / bn.com Redeemer Church Community-Wide Fall Carnival October 30, 11:30am to 2pm Redeemer Church hosts a Fall Festival with a Carnival theme and fun for the whole family. Activities include Men’s Chili Cook-off, Ladies’ Bake-off, pony rides, inflatables, face painting, door prizes, food trucks, hay rides, and so more.

Redeemer Church / 904-285-8009 / 190 S. Roscoe Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 / www.redeemerpv. com OLGC Fall Festiv’All , Car Show and Pumpkin Patch October 30, 11am Annual Fall Festiv’All and Car Show and Pumpkin Patch featuring: Food Tents, Filipino Foods, Bratwurst, Dogs & Burgers, Ice Cream & Funnel Cakes, Entertainment Tent Featuring, Prince Pele’s Polynesian Revue – include photo, Karilagan Dance Troupe, Trout Creek Troubadors, Car Show - Spectator Judged via Smart Phone, Kids’s games booths, Bounce Houses & Obstacle Courses - All You Can Bounce, Sports Tent with Pro Games on Big Screen, Pumpkin Patch, Hay Rides, Cash Raffle – $1100 in prizes.

Our Lady of Good Counsel Church / 904-687-3202 / 5950 State Road 16, Saint Augustine, FL 32092 / olgcchurch.org Trunk or Treat Fest • October 30, 4pm Crossroots City Church hosts a Trunk or Treat Fest. Wear you Halloween best and come to the church for bounce houses, candy, pony rides, popcorn, vendors, foodtrucks & more .

Crossroots City Church / 904-566-4065 / 4900 Baymeadows Road, Jacksonville, FL 32258 / www. crossroots.org Trunk or Treat at Christ United Methodist Church October 30, 4pm The Trunk or Treat is Sunday, October 30th, 4pm to 6pm. There is also a Chili Cook-Off at 4pm that day.

Christ United Methodist Church / 904-249-5370 / 400 Penman Road, Neptune Beach, FL 32266 / christumcnb.org

for the Fall Events & Festivals Calendar for an always updated list of Fall events.

OCTOBER 2016 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 29

THINGS TO DO Educator Appreciation Days at Ripley’s Thru October 16 Ripley’s Believe It or Not! attractions in Florida are thanking K-12 educators for all their hard work with the return of Educator Appreciation Days. All K-12 school personnel are invited to visit any of Ripley’s Florida attractions for free thru October 16.

Participating attractions include: St. Augustine: Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium Red Train Tours Bayfront Mini Golf Ripley’s Ghost Train Adventures www.ripleys.com/staugustine Educator Appreciation Days at Barnes and Noble October 8 – 16 Pre-K through 12th grade educators: B&N Educator Card holders receive 25% off their purchase, plus enjoy other educator-only sales. Don’t have an Educator card? Bring in your school ID to any B&N store and sign up for free card and start saving today.

Barnes and Noble / 904-886-9705 / 11112 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / bn.com Homeschooler Coffee Break October 8, 12noon B&N and H.E.R.I Jax will be hosting a Homeschooler Coffee Break on Saturday October 8 at 12pm. Come meet and mingle with other local homeschoolers, learn how B&N and H.E.R.I can be useful resources for your classroom, and enjoy free giveaways and chances to win prizes, all over a cup of coffee and sweet treats from the B&N Café. Event is free but reservations are required. Please call 904-886-9904 to reserve your spot today.

Barnes and Noble / 904-886-9705 / 11112 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223 / bn.com Wings Over Golden Isles Air Show October 8, 8am to 9pm October 9, 8am to 4pm Inaugural 2016 Wings Over Golden Isles Air Show weekend. Your daily General Admission Ticket is valid for either a Saturday or Sunday admission date. Find your spot and set up your folding chairs and enjoy the Golden Isles only world-class air show event. There are great viewing locations throughout the air show grounds. All Saturday tickets are valid for the entire day & evening activities. Fans will experience over 12 hours of world-class family fun & air show entertainment headlining the “RCAF Snowbirds” Jet Team & “.38 Special” in concert. The evening activities feature Exhibits, Static Display Aircraft, International Foods & Concert Series concluding with the Grand Finale Fireworks Display!

Saturday — Adult (18 & Up): $25 Saturday — Youth (6 – 17): $20 Saturday — Military, Fire & Police Personnel: $20 Saturday — Children (5 & Under): Free Sunday — Adult (18 & Up): $20 Sunday — Youth (6 – 17): $15 Sunday — Military, Fire & Police Personnel: $15 Sunday — Children (5 & Under): Free Weekend Pass (Sat & Sun) — $33 Each

Parking Purchasing an advance Airport Parking Pass remains the Best air show Parking Option. Only the reserved “Airport Parking Pass” will guarantee Airport Parking. Fans wanting to park at the airport without a valid Airport Parking Pass will be re-directed to the closest available remote or premium airport parking locations. Free public parking is availble.

Advance Purchase Parking Pass (only available through advance purchase) SATURDAY: $20 SUNDAY: $15 Family four pack tickets are available, as are bleacher seating options.

Brunswick Golden Isles Airport / 295 Aviation Parkway, Brunswick, GA 31525 / wingsovergoldenisles.com Junie B. Jones The Musical October 1, October 8, October 15, and October 22, 2pm Junie B. Jones, The Musical is an adaptation of four of Barbara Park’s best-selling books, brought to life in a musical. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children.

Limelight Theatre / 904-825-1164 / 11 Old Mission Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www. limelight-theatre.org Meeting With JSO October 6, 12noon to 1pm Monthly informational sessions with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. These monthly informational sessions allow course-participants to speak with and ask questions of the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. Free and open to the community.

The Center for Language and Culture (CLC); on the campus of Kings Trail Elementary / 7401 Old Kings Road South, Jacksonville, FL 32217 / www. duvalschools.org 19th Annual St. Augustine Greek Festival and Arts & Crafts Fair October 7, 4pm to 10pm; October 8, 11am to 10pm; October 9, 11am to 5pm The St. Augustine Greek Festival celebrates all things Greek - food, dancing, music, and heritage. There will be homemade Greek foods, traditional Greek dancing, music, and outdoor marketplace, and a Kids Center with carnival rides, games and activities. There is an admission fee for adults, and it is free for children and active-duty military and their immediate family.

Francis Field / 904-829-0504 / 29 W Castillo Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32084 / www.stauggreekfest.com Pete the Cat October 10, 10am to 11am A new musical based on the books by Eric Litwin and James Dean. Live performance of Pete the Cat, a musical based on the books. Admission: $8.00 per person. School groups, individials, and homeschoolers are welcome to attend. Reserve your seats online in advance.

The Florida Theatre / 904 353-3500 / 128 East Forsyth Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www.theatreworksjax.com

Page 30 • Jax4Kids.com • OCTOBER 2016

2016

survey

VOTE NOW! Log on to Jax4Kids.com to vote.

Voting ends october 16th!

Win a $100 Visa Gift Card

THINGS TO DO Super Scientific Circus October 11, 10:30am Live show that uses circus skills to introduce the principles of friction, inertia, centripetal force, aerodynamics, sonic booms, air pressure, and ultraviolet light. Best for grades K thru 6. Tickts are $12 each; there will be a $3 Facility Fee added at checkout. To sit with your school group, you must purchase your ticket with the school.

General Admission tickets will be seated in a seperate area from school groups.

Thrasher-Horne Center / 904-276-6815 / 283 College Drive, Orange Park, FL 32065 / www. thcenter.org

performance at 10:30am on October 14. Tickets for this show are $12 each, with a $3 facility fee added at checkout. To sit with your school group, you must purchase your ticket with the school.

General Admission tickets will be seated in a seperate area from school groups.

There will also be a performance at 7:30pm. These tickets range from $13 to $33, and will incur a $3 processing fee and $3 facility fee at checkout.

Thrasher-Horne Center / 904-276-6815 / 283 College Drive, Orange Park, FL 32065 / www. thcenter.org

ArcAttack – Engineering Rules!

October 14, 10am and 12noon ArcAttack – Engineering Rules! uses high tech wizardry to generate a truly ‘electrifying’ performance that inspires students across the world to pursue their interests in physics, mathematics, chemistry and engineering. ArcAttack is a multimedia performance art group led by an engineer, an electrician, an audio engineer and a science teacher that research and educate students about science and technology using music as a medium of propagating the relationship between science and art.

ArcAttack will take students on an interactive Parsons Dance journey of discovery to learn the science behind October 14, 10:30am and 7:30pm the show. They will be given the opportunity to Parsons Dance, a New York City based modern dance company, will perform live at the Thrasher- help solve problems, learn about the scientific method, and apply critical thinking skills.

Horne Center. There will be one school time School House Rock LIVE! October 13, 10am and 12noon Schoolhouse Rock will be performed in two live performances, one at 10am and 12noon. The shows are best suited for students in grades: K - 8. Tickets are $8.50 per ticket. Please note: Shows fill up quickly. Call or email to purchase your tickets today.

Nathan H. Wilson Center for the Arts / 904-4422947 / 11901 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.fscjartistseries.org

This is best suited for students in grades: 1 4. Tickets are $8.50 per ticket. Two shows, at 10am and 12noon.

Please note: Shows fill up quickly. Call or email to purchase your tickets today.

Nathan H. Wilson Center for the Arts / 904- 4422947 / 11901 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246 / www.fscjartistseries.org 11th Annual Taste of the Beach October 16, 12noon The 11th Annual Taste of the Beach will Benefit Betty Griffin House, and features food from over a dozen beach restaurants. The restaurants compete for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place prizes for appetizer, entree and dessert in addition to Judge’s Choice, Best Booth Display and People’s Choice. Cash only event. Enjoy free parking and shuttle ride to the pier from City Hall.

St. Augustine Beach Pier / 350 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine Beach, FL 32080 / www.bettygriffinhouse.org

Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Oakland Raiders October 23, 1pm The Jacksonville Jaguars take on the Oakland Raiders. Single game tickets are available for purchase online. For young Jags fans ages 4-12, be sure to join the Junior Jags! Ages newborn to age 3 are invited to join the Jaguars Cub Club.

Everbank Field / 904-633-2000 / One Everbank Field Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32202 / www. jaguars.com Jekyll Island Movie on the Green October 29, 7pm Free movie series on the Jekyll Island Beach Village Green. Families are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets to spread out on the Green. Various snack and dinner options will be available for purchase. This event is free and open to the public. All are welcome. This month’s movie is E.T. The Extra Terrestrial.

Jekyll Island Beach Village Green / 912-635-3636 / Ocean View Trail, Jekyll Island, GA 31527 www. jekyllisland.com

OCTOBER 2016 • Jax4Kids.com •

Page 31