Kids Directory 2013

EVENTS, CONCERTS & PERFORMANCES

 

FREE SJC Library Events

Storytime features The Cat in the Hat himself, 11:30 a.m. April 17; a kids and tweens crafts event with the fedoraed feline is held 3:30 p.m. April 19 at Anastasia Island Branch Library, 124 Seagrove Main St., St. Augustine, 209-3730. National Library Week events continue with The Cat in the Hat Main-iac Science Lab, 3 p.m. April 18 at Main Branch, 1960 N. Ponce de Leon Blvd., St. Augustine, 827-6940. A Teen Coffeehouse is held 6 p.m. April 18 at Southeast Branch, 6670 U.S. 1 S., St. Augustine, 827-6900. Teen Literature Day is held 2-8 p.m. April 18 at Bartram Trail Branch, 60 Davis Pond Blvd., Fruit Cove, 827-6960. All area libraries offer events for little kids, tweens and teens throughout the summer. Check sjcpls.org for more free events at St. Johns County libraries.

 

Arts in the Park

The 10th annual local arts event is held 10 a.m.-6 p.m. April 27 at Johansen Park, located at Seminole Road and Park Terrace, Atlantic Beach. Music, dance and bring-your-own-picnic are featured. 247-5828.

 

Talbot Islands State Park

A ranger discusses local critters 2 p.m. April 20 at Ribault Club, 11241 Fort George Road, Fort George Island Cultural State Park. Coffee with a Ranger is held 6 a.m. April 27 at Ribault Club. Check floridastateparks.org for family activities through the summer at all seven parks within the Talbot Islands territory: Pumpkin Hill Preserve, Amelia Island State Park, Fort George Cultural State Park, Yellow Bluff Historic State Park, Big Talbot and George Crady Bridge Fishing Pier State Park. 251-2320.

 

Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens

370 Zoo Parkway, Northside, 757-4463, jacksonvillezoo.org

World Penguin Day is celebrated 10 a.m.-2 p.m. April 25 at Tuxedo Coast, Earth Day and Safe Kids Water Safety Day are celebrated 10 a.m.-4 p.m. April 27, Teddy Bear Affair is held 10 a.m.-4 p.m. May 4. Endangered Species Day is May 17. Pollinator Day, honoring the species that spread life throughout the planet, is held 10 a.m.-4 p.m. outside Butterfly Hollow and at the lemur exhibit. The third annual Save the Rhinos conservation event is held 10 a.m.-4 p.m. July 13, featuring info booths, animal encounters and animal enrichment. A variety of family events are held through the summer.

 

FREE Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival

The 50th annual festival begins with the Pirate Parade 6 p.m. on April 27, followed by the opening of the Kids Fun Zone 6-10:30 p.m. May 3. The festival runs 9 a.m.-7 p.m. May 4 and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. May 5 along Centre Street and the bayfront. Live music, an art show, contests, a 5K run/walk, fireworks and lots of shrimp are featured. (866) 426-3542, 261-5841.

 

Bowl Bash

The eighth annual competition is held at noon May 11 at Oceanside Rotary Skate Park, 800 Seminole Road, Jack Russell Park, Atlantic Beach. Registration is $20 in advance, $25 day of. A pro exhibition is featured. coab.us

 

Ripples on the River

The sixth annual event is held 11 a.m.-2 p.m. May 18 at Jacksonville University’s Marine Science Research Institute (MSRI) on the riverfront. The first 200 youths receive a free rod and reel from Fish Florida. Live music, a fishing clinic with Capt. Don Dingman, tours of the new Gentry Boardwalk & Nature Preserve, seafood, hot dogs, chips and slaw, Sweetwater Beer samples, a Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission critter touch tank and tours of MSRI. Admission is $10 per adult, kids free. 256-7095. ju.edu/msri

 

Youth Orchestra Spring Concert

The Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestra performs 5 p.m. May 19 at the T-U Center’s Jacoby Symphony Hall, 300 W. Water St., Downtown. Tickets are $5. 354-5547. jaxsymphony.org

 

A Taste of St. Augustine

The 17th annual event features food samples from more than 25 area restaurants competing for awards, along with live music, and locally brewed wine and beer starting at noon April 27 at St. Augustine Amphitheatre, 1340C A1A S., St. Augustine. Admission is $5, and food and beverage tickets are $1 each. The Race to the Taste, a 5K run/walk, is 4:30 p.m. Parking and admission for kids younger than 11 is free. 829-3295. epicbh.org

 

World of Nations Celebration

The 21st annual World of Nations Celebration is held May 2-5 at Metropolitan Park, 1410 Gator Bowl Blvd., Jacksonville. Multiethnic cuisine, artistry, education, a Parade of Flags, fireworks and global entertainment are featured. Tickets are $5 for one day, $8 for two days; ages 3 and younger are admitted free. 630-3690. makeascenedowntown.com

 

FREE Movies In The Park

Downtown Vision Inc. presents the sixth annual popular Movies in the Park free series — family-friendly movies, shown on Wyndham Riverwalk’s riverfront lawn, 1515 Prudential Drive, Southbank. “Who Framed Roger Rabbit?” screens at dusk (about 8 p.m.) April 19; “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” shows April 26 and “Brave” wraps it up May 3. 634-0303. downtownjacksonville.org

 

Just TRI It! Kids Triathlon

This triathlon for kids in grades K-7 begins 8 a.m. April 28 at Calhoun Center, 1300 Duval St., St. Augustine. Proceeds benefit the Children’s Museum of St. Johns. 797-7243. co.st-johns.fl.us

 

Butterfly Festival

The 13th annual butterfly festival is held 10 a.m.-4 p.m. April 27 at Tree Hill Nature Center, 7152 Lone Star Road, Arlington. Crafts, food and drink, live music, a butterfly release, and kids’ activities are featured. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and military; $3 for ages 3-17; free for kids younger than 3. 724-4646.

 

Jacksonville Suns Baseball

The Suns swing for the fences against other Double A teams from around the region throughout the summer at Bragan Field, 301 Randolph Blvd., Downtown, 358-2846. The Suns also offer kid-friendly events, including Kids Run the Bases on Sundays, Kids’ Clinic, Scout Campouts, Celebration of Reading days and Fifty-Cent Family Feast nights. Superman alights at the ball park June 13; Report Card Night is June 14. Camp Days for campers’ field trips are June 17, against the Montgomery Biscuits (still, in our opinion, the best team name EVER) and July 1, against the Pensacola Blue Wahoos. Special rates apply. jaxsuns.com

 

TheatreWorks Productions

“Click, Clack, Moo Cows That Type” is presented 10 a.m. and noon May 3 at The Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St., Downtown, 353-3500. The free shows, “Toying with Science” with Gary Krinsky presented 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. June 19; “Aesop’s Dinosaur Fable” staged 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. June 20 at The Florida Theatre, and “Florida Treasures” historical comedy staged 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. June 24-27 at Main Library, 303 N. Laura St., Downtown. “The Pied Bag-Piper of Hamelin” is presented free 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. July 1 and 2 at Friday Musicale, 645 Oak St., Riverside. 353-3550 for reservations. theatreworksjax.com

 

FREE Concerts in the Plaza

St. Augustine hosts free concerts every Thur. night of the summer in the downtown Plaza de la Constitucion. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. 825-1004.

 

Dancin’ in the Streets

The 26th annual Dancin’ in the Streets is held 11 a.m.-9 p.m. May 18 at Beaches Town Center, where Atlantic Boulevard meets the ocean. There’s a kids’ zone, a climbing wall, art exhibits, food and free skin-cancer screenings. Nine bands perform on the Ocean Stage. beachestowncenter.com

 

FREE Jacksonville Jazz Fest

The free festival is held May 23-26 at various venues throughout Downtown Jacksonville, featuring piano competition and performances by jazz ensembles from area high schools and colleges, as well as national and regional acts. makeascenedowntown.com

 

FREE Riverside Arts Market

This weekly arts and farmers market features regional artists, live bands and strolling performers, as well as lots of local produce, crafts, prepared eats and performance artists, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. every Sat. under the Fuller Warren bridge, downtown Jacksonville. Upcoming performers include puppeteers, jugglers, stilt walkers, clowns and local school bands. RAM is held through mid-December. riversideartsmarket.com

 

FREE Fernandina Farmers Market

Farm-direct fruits and vegetables are available 9 a.m.-1 p.m. every Sat. through June 29 at the market, on the corner of Centre Street and Seventh Street North, Fernandina Beach. Organic products, gourmet baked goods, herbs and garden flowers are featured. Admission is free. fernandinafarmersmarket.com

 

FREE Old City Farmers Market

Fresh produce, baked goods, plants, fresh seafood and even banjo pickers are all on hand every Sat. at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre on A1A South in St. Augustine 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Admission is free.

 

FREE Library Events

Free movies are offered throughout the summer at various library branches in Duval, St. Johns, Clay and Nassau counties. Story times for specific age groups are held, as well as family events, scavenger hunts, teen clubs and music events; 630-2665. St. Johns County libraries offer kids’ games, cooking classes, book club, movie nights and art activities; 827-6940.

 

Fourth of July

Barring a burn ban (holla, rain!) the region is home to a slew of fireworks displays including St. Augustine (ci.st-augustine.fl.us), World Golf Village (WorldGolfHallofFame.org), Fernandina Beach, Jax Beach (jacksonvillebeach.org) and downtown Jacksonville (jacksonvillelanding.com). After the explosions have died out, there’s always a need for beaches cleanup volunteers. Check city websites for updated info or go to bstp.net

 

Sounds on Centre Street

This weekly event on Centre Street in Fernandina Beach’s historic district features vendors, live music and a good excuse to listen or wander. Scheduled bands include Beech Street Blues Band (June 7), Island Vibe (July 5), Boukou Groove (Aug. 2), Albert Castiglia (Sept. 13) and wrapping it up with Ben Prestage on Oct. 4. 277-0717. ameliaisland.com

 

Bowling for Rhinos

The 22nd annual Bowling for Rhinos is held 7 p.m. July 26 at Batt Family Fun Center, 1838 Cassat Ave., Westside. Registration is $15, which includes three games and shoe rental. Proceeds benefit African and Indonesian rhino sanctuaries. 757-4463. jacksonvillezoo.org

 

 

 

 

ATTRACTIONS, RESOURCES & PLACES TO GO

 

Adventure Landing

1944 Beach Blvd., Jax Beach, 246-4386, adventurelanding.com

4825 Blanding Blvd., Orange Park, 771-2803

2780 S.R. 16, St. Augustine, 827-9400

The Blanding Boulevard and St. Augustine locations offer mini golf, laser tag, game arcades, food and go-kart racing, while the Beach Boulevard site offers most of that along with water slides, a lazy river and a variety of splashy pools. Online discounts and season passes are available.

 

Amateur Night at the Ritz

829 N. Davis St., Jacksonville, 632-5555, ritzjacksonville.com

Held at 7:30 p.m. on the first Fri. of every month, this event features local singers, musicians, poets, rappers and comedians competing for cash prizes based on the cheers or jeers of the audience (jeers not allowed for child contestants). Tickets are $6.

 

Ananda Kula Yoga

4154 Herschel St., San Marco, 680-7344, ananda-kula.com

Kids yoga classes are offered at 3:30 p.m. every Tue. Check their website for details and other programs.

 

Beaches Museum & History Park

381 Beach Blvd., Jax Beach, 685-6102, beachesmuseum.org

For visiting camps and daycares, BMHP offers ongoing themed programs, tours and a 28-ton steam locomotive and model trains. The program fee is $4 per child. Check website for details. BMHP is open 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tue.-Sat.

 

Black Creek Outfitters

10051 Skinner Lake Drive, Southside, 645-7003, blackcreekoutfitters.com

Black Creek offers standup paddleboard mini-lessons every other Tue. throughout the summer, as well as standup paddleboard yoga, kayak trips to many of Northeast Florida’s waterways and standup paddleboard demos on the ocean. Call for times, dates and fees.

 

Carousel Park

180 San Marco Ave., St. Augustine, 825-1006 or 823-3388

Located at Davenport Park playground, this St. Augustine landmark offers old-timey carnival fun at $1 a ride. Plus, the St. Johns County Main Library is right next door, in case you crave a quick reading session (or bathroom break).

 

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

1 S. Castillo Drive, St. Augustine, 829-6506, nps.gov/casa/index.htm

Re-enactors relate experiences of the 1740s Spanish colonial soldier at the fort, and fire off cannons every hour from 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. (except 12:30 p.m.) every Fri., Sat. and Sun. through August on the fort’s northeast gun deck. A Junior Ranger booklet is available so kids can interact during their visit to the National Monument.

 

Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens

829 Riverside Ave., Riverside, 355-0630, cummer.org

In addition to summer camps, The Cummer offers a variety of drop-in arts classes and art adventures sessions for kids, periodic art education programs, along with exhibits and a garden perfect for strolling with children. Admission is free 4-9 p.m. every Tue.

 

Fort Clinch State Park

2601 Atlantic Ave., Fernandina Beach, 277-7274, floridastateparks.org

In addition to the historic 19th century fort, this state park features a coastal hammock, a fishing pier and deep woods. Summer candlelight self-guided tours are offered at sundown every Fri. and Sat. from May 4-Nov. 2. Living history interpreters recreate life during the War Between the States on May 4, June 1, July 6 and Aug. 3 and through the fall and winter, featuring artillery demonstrations, marching drills and daily encampment life.

 

Fort Matanzas National Monument

8635 A1A S., St. Augustine, 471-0116, nps.gov/foma

Coastal Florida was a major field of conflict as European nations fought for control in the New World. Fort Matanzas guarded St. Augustine’s southern river approach. The monument is still protecting — not only the historic fort, but the wild barrier island and plants and animals who live there. The fort is open 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. daily except Dec. 25. The free ferry to and from the fort departs the visitor center (where you get a boarding pass) dock on the hour from 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The fort has a nature trail, fishing, river and ocean beaches and restrooms.

 

Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve

505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, 823-4500

GTMNERR’s environmental education center includes a museum-worthy display of animals in its ocean/estuary habitat, live fish and animal displays, and biweekly educational seminars.

 

Jacksonville Arboretum

1445 Millcoe Road, Arlington, jacksonvillearboretum.org

This 120-acre tract, saved from development by local conservationists, is now open seven days a week, 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Four short trails of varying difficulty cross the property’s many wetlands.

 

Jacksonville Ice & Sportsplex

3605 Philips Highway, Southside, 399-3223, jaxiceandsportsplex.com

Jacksonville’s only ice skating facility offers lessons and holds public ice skating sessions weekly (Tuesday night skating is free to enrolled students). Open daily.

 

Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens

370 Zoo Parkway, Northside, 757-4463, jacksonvillezoo.org

Along with a zoo full of creatures — jaguars, bongos, gorillas, giraffes — the zoo offers train rides, a 4,000-foot splash park, and a magnificent carousel featuring most of the exotic animals found at the zoo. Land of the Tiger is a new exhibit. Also, kids can feed the creatures at Stingray Bay, a water exhibit with sharks and rays.

 

Jax4kids.com

This free website is committed to featuring places to go and things to do for Jacksonville’s young people — including spots where kids eat free in Northeast Florida — and as a resource for parents.

 

Jump Zone

1035 Blanding Blvd., Orange Park, 328-2227, jumpzoneparty.com

Jump!Zone is an indoor kid’s playground that features large themed inflatables, arcade games and a snack bar. Suitable for birthday parties and camp field trips.

 

Mandarin Mill Family Fun & Games

10910 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin, 262-7888, mandarinmill.com

This family spot offers miniature golf, batting cages, an arcade and games. It’s great for birthday parties and group outings. Summer hours start June 10, open 10 a.m.-10 p.m. daily. From 5-7 p.m., unlimited golf is $5 (plus tax) per person.

 

Marineland

9505 Ocean Shore Blvd., St. Augustine, 471-1111, (888) 279-9194, marineland.net

Though dolphins jumping through hoops are a thing of the past, this historic marine attraction now focuses on dolphin encounters, including an opportunity to feed or swim with the creatures. Marineland also offers summer camps.

 

Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville

333 N. Laura St., Downtown, 396-6911, mocajacksonville.org

MOCA Jax offers summer art education programs, and free admission for families every Sunday, along with a dynamite interactive fifth-floor exhibit exclusively for children.

 

Museum of Science and History

1025 Museum Circle, Southbank, 396-6674, themosh.org

MOSH features science and nature-related exhibits along with regular shows at the museum planetarium. MOSH also offers science and adventure summer camps.

 

Paintball Adventures

11850 Camden Road, Arlington, 645-7127, paintballadventures.com

Paintball Adventures is open from 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Sat. and Sun. year round.

 

PlanSummer

4017 Ponce de Leon Ave., Mandarin, 438-4908, plansummer.com

PlanSummer.com helps working parents quickly plan their children’s learning, care and experiences over the summer break. The website lets you search, compare and select summer camps, then share the details with friends, relatives and babysitters using PlanSummer features.

 

St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum

12 S. Castillo Drive, 
St. Augustine, 877-467-5863, piratesoul.com

This St. Augustine attraction features actual pirate treasure, interactive exhibits and a gift shop sure to plunder your wallet. Open 9 a.m.-8 p.m. daily. Check website for coupons.

 

Public Pools

529-2200 ext. 307 (bit.ly/12N6g1T)

JaxParks has more than 30 pools open to the public, including one (the Cecil Aquatics Center) that’s open year-round. St. Johns County has just one: Solomon-Calhoun pool, 1300 Duval St., St. Augustine, 209-0395, but it also features a gymnasium and a small splash park (bit.ly/156onk5). Fernandina Beach has a pool at Atlantic Recreation Center, with a playground and basketball courts, 2500 Atlantic Ave., 277-7350 (bit.ly/10RtEHK). In Clay county, there’s the spring-fed public pool at Spring Park in Green Cove Springs on the St. Johns River, which also has playground equipment, and the city pier.

 

St. Augustine Alligator Farm

999 Anastasia Blvd., St. Augustine, 824-3337, alligatorfarm.us

In addition to a zipline ropes course (must be at least 10 years old and 57 inches tall), the Alligator Farm lets you pose for photos with alligators and features twice-a-day feedings. The bird rookery offers up-close looks at nesting endangered birds, and crocs and other creatures abound in the zoo. Day and weeklong camps are offered June 17-Aug. 9 for kids entering grades 1-6 and include hands-on animal presentations, keeper talks, crafts and themed activities.

 

FREE Splash Parks

There are two free splash parks in Northeast Florida. One is located adjacent to the vehicle ramp in Vilano Beach — a small splash park, along with showers, bicycle racks and restrooms. There is also a splash park and playground next to the county pier in St. Augustine Beach, with free parking and beach access. 209-3740.

 

Skate Station

3461 Kori Road, 880-7703, skatestationfunworks.com

230 Blanding Blvd., Orange Park, 272-5600

Two local roller rinks offer roller-skating lessons and open skate sessions at various times.

 

Tree Hill Nature Center

7152 Lone Star Road, Arlington, 724-4646, treehill.org

Live animal programs and hands-on learning programs are offered from 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Mon.-Sat. Registration is required for groups of 15 or more. In addition to the 13th annual Butterfly Festival, held 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on April 27, Tree Hill has 50 acres of trails, hummingbird gardens and guided nature walks. Call for fees.

 

Treaty Oak

Jesse Ball Dupont Park, 1123 Prudential Drive, Southbank, downtownjacksonville.org

This magnificent 250-year-old oak is awe-inspiring enough to dazzle any kid (particularly those who’ve seen the only slightly more extraordinary “Avatar” version). Kids can wander around the base (no climbing, though!), and even grab a few acorns to plant their own granddaddy oaks.

 

Friendship Fountain

835 Museum Circle, Southbank, Jacksonville

The refurbished fountain shoots jets of water 100 feet high all day, and colored lights play on the water at night.

 

 

 

 

ACADEMIC CAMPS & TUTORING

 

Center Academy

3571 Cardinal Point Drive, Jacksonville, 448-1956, centeracademy.com

2171 Kingsley Ave., Orange Park, 276-3552

2683 St. Johns Bluff Road S., Southside, 645-5366

Center Academy helps students entering fourth-eighth grades who suffer from motivation, learning and attention problems. Three- and five-week programs offer intensive remediation for learning and motivational problems, as well as self-esteem enhancement, and relaxation training.

 

The DePaul School of Northeast Florida

3044 San Pablo Road S., Intracoastal, 223-3391, depaulschool.com

The DePaul School offers an intensive academic summer program for children grades 1-8. Call for fees, times and dates.

 

Early Learning Coalition of CNBB

1845 Town Center Blvd., Ste. 150, Orange Park, (800) 238-3463 or 213-3939, elcofcnbb.org

Early Learning Coalition of Clay, Nassau, Baker and Bradford counties works to prepare children for school. The Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) program is free for Florida resident children who will be 4 years old on or before Sept. 1.

 

The Goddard School

2280 Village Square Parkway, Fleming Island, 264-0605, goddardschool.com

100 Julington Plaza Drive, St. Johns, 230-2002

14230 Spartina Court, Intracoastal, 821-0085

415 Meldrum Lane, Orange Park, 291-9991

The Goddard School works to instill a lifelong love of learning. The year-round program offers half or full-day schedules for children ages 6 weeks-6 years old, from 6:30 a.m.-6 p.m., weekdays. The summer program offers special visitors, splash days and nature study.

 

Hope Haven Children’s Clinic & Family Center

4600 Beach Blvd., Southside, 346-5100

Hope Haven offers academic day camp for children in grades K-5 from 8 a.m.-4 p.m., weekdays, mid-June through early August. The program uses traditional teaching methods with small groups and one-on-one enrichment in a fun setting. The Skills for Success program, for children in grades 6-9, is held from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Mon.-Thur., mid-June through early August. Call for fees and schedules.

 

Huntington Learning Centers

11111 San Jose Blvd., Ste. 41, Mandarin, 886-9600, huntingtonhelps.com

13170 Atlantic Blvd., Ste. 54, Jacksonville, 220-1212

Huntington offers programs in reading, writing, math, phonics, spelling, study skills and SAT/ACT prep for students of all ages. An individualized program is designed and administered by certified teachers following an diagnostic evaluation. Parents may select days and hours to fit their schedules.

 

iLearn Academy

8130 Baymeadows Circle W., Ste. 205-206, Baymeadows, 629-1680, ilearn-academy.com

Tutoring for children in grades K-12 is offered in math, language arts, SAT and ACT prep. Evaluation and registration is free.

 

Island Prep Eco-Friendly Learning Center

4171 A1A S., St. Augustine, 471-1100, islandprep.com

This eco-friendly early learning center offers programs for children ages 1 to PreK, including free yoga, Spanish and ASL enrichment classes. It’s open from 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Mon.-Fri., year round. A fall VPK program is available to children who turn 4 years old by Sept. 1.

 

Kaplan Educational Centers

2683 St. Johns Bluff Road S., Ste. 141, Southside, 642-7741 or (800) KAP-TEST, kaptest.com

Kaplan offers three-week prep courses for PSATs, SATs and programs in reading and math for high schoolers, as well as FCAT programs for all grades.

 

Kumon Math and Reading Center

Southside: 9978-2 Old Baymeadows Rd., 642-9566, kumon.com

Intracoastal: 13475-27 Atlantic Blvd., 744-2445

Mandarin: 11362-18 San Jose Blvd., 268-8861

Ponte Vedra: 280 Solana Road, 285-7775

Riverside: 2039 Park St., 381-1200

Kumon is an academic enrichment program, to help your child move beyond grade level.

 

LearningRx

4792 Windsor Commons Court, Ste. 2, Jacksonville, 992-0971, learningrx.com

This program offers help to students to overcome learning struggles to expand the child’s ability to learn.

 

Park’s Place Daycare & Learning Center

5500 Shindler Drive, Westside, 908-0140

Academic camp is offered from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. in June, July and August, focusing on literacy and computer skills and including a summer reading program. Extended care is available. A summer VPK program for kids entering kindergarten in the fall is also offered.

 

Sylvan Learning Center

1414 Kingsley Ave., Ste. 4, Orange Park, 269-2000, sylvanlearning.com

4000 St. Johns Ave., Ste. 28, Avondale, 387-5100

2416 Dunn Ave., Northside, 757-2220

880 A1A, Ste. 7, Ponte Vedra Beach, 280-8410

Sylvan offers programs in reading, writing, math, algebra, geometry and study skills, including summer enrichment programs and preparation for ACT or SAT. Sylvan specializes in helping students of all ages master learning skills and build self-confidence.

 

TEAM UP Summer Camp

Communities In Schools Jacksonville

3100 University Blvd. S., Ste. 300, Jacksonville, 630-6900

These free summer camps are offered on-site at 20 Duval County public schools. Times and dates vary by location. The K-8 programs focus on academics, cultural enrichment and career preparation and include recreational activities and field trips. Registration is first-come, first-served, and forms are available at participating schools.

 

Tutoring Club St. Johns

605 S.R. 13 N., Ste. 109, St. Johns, 230-2855, tutoringclub.com

This organization tutors students age 5 and older in reading, math, writing, SAT/ACT prep, language, sciences and study skills. Hours are 3:30-7:30 p.m.

 

UNF ACT & SAT Summer Institute

University of North Florida, 12000 Alumni Drive, Southside, 620-4200, unf.edu/ce

These four-day boot-camp-style test preps, for kids who are rising high school sophomores through seniors, are held 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Mon.-Thur., July 15-18 for ACT and July 29-Aug. 1 for SAT, at Herbert University Center. The instructors are specialists in their respective fields and the class sizes are kept small. Course fee is $495 per child per session.

 

 

 

 

ART, THEATER & DANCE CAMPS

 

Abella’s School of Dance

1765 Tree Blvd., St. Augustine, 810-2010, abellaschoolofdance.com

Students learn the fundamentals of ballet, jazz tumbling, conditioning, choreography, and dance history in the Summer Intensive Workshops. The first session, at a fee of $350, is held 9 a.m.-noon July 8-26 for ages 5-7; the afternoon workshop for ages 8 and older is held from 1-3 p.m. The second session, at a fee of $235, is held July 29-Aug. 9. Advanced ballet and pointe, for ages 11 and older, is offered for $100 a week, from 4-5:30 p.m.

 

Academy of Dance

12276 San Jose Blvd., Ste. 613, Mandarin, 880-2275, academyofdancejax.com

This theater dance camp teaches children ages 3-12 voice, drama, makeup, staging, costume design and many forms of dance. Sessions are held weekdays from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and run June 17-July 26. Young children’s late afternoon and teen/adult evening classes are also available, along with extended care and field trips.

 

Alhambra Theatre & Dining

12000 Beach Blvd., Southside, 641-1212, 280-0614 ext. 203

Alhambra Theatre and The Cultural Center of Ponte Vedra Beach have teamed up for this theater camp for kids ages 13 and older, held 9 a.m.-2 p.m., weekdays, June 24-July 5, with a performance July 8; and for ages 9-12 on July 15-26, with a performance on July 29 on the Alhambra’s stage. Campers study acting, voice, movement, improv, and costume and set design. Fees are $350 for CCPVB and Alhambra members before May 11, $425 for nonmembers; after May 11, fees are $425 for members, $495 for nonmembers for each session.

 

Art Camp @ MOCAJax

Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville

333 N. Laura St., Downtown, 396-6911 ext. 207, mocajacksonville.org

Art camp at MOCAJax offers children ages 4-17 meaningful art experiences in nine one-week sessions. Camp is held Mon.-Fri., from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m., June 10-Aug. 16 (no camp July 1-5). Camp fees vary by age group. Campers bring their own snacks and lunches. Extended hours are available for $50 per week.

 

Artoga Goes to Camp

51 Pine St., Atlantic Beach, 477-0400, artoga.org

Artoga brings yoga, art, theater and karate to camps throughout Northeast Florida. Weekly themes, workshops, live performances and a mini-carnival are featured.

 

Atlantic Beach Experimental Theatre

716 Ocean Blvd., Atlantic Beach, 509-1472, abettheatre.com

ABET offers age-appropriate sessions for kids younger than 14, focusing on theater games, music and dance, improvisation and storytelling. Camps run from June 3-Aug. 9, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Mon.-Fri. Fee is $160 per child, per week.

 

Boleros Dance/Art Camps

10131 Atlantic Blvd., Arlington, 477-6415, boleros.cc

Camp is held 9 a.m.-4 p.m. June 24-28 for ages 8 and older. Dance classes include stretch and conditioning, ballet, jazz, modern, and musical theater. Art classes include drawing, painting, making collages, creating sculptures. On the last day of camp, students showcase their art works and give an informal dance performance. Total camp fee is $250; a $75 deposit is due by May 1. A summer dance intensive is held July 8-12 and 15-19, featuring classes in ballet, jazz, modern, contemporary and music theater. Teachers include Sam Hills, Bryan Jenkins, Alex Nordin, Suzanne Saltmarsh, Dulce Anaya and A.A. Stanford. A work study audition is held 1 p.m. April 20; $10 fee.

 

Bricks 4 Kidz Creativity Center

530 S.R. 13 N., Ste. 5, St. Augustine, 230-0543

Bricks 4 Kidz offers various camps this summer 9 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m., from June 10-Aug. 16; call for details.

 

Camp Broadway

Wilson Center for the Arts, FSCJ South Campus, 11901 Beach Blvd., Southside, 442-2932, artistseriesjax.org

The annual Camp Broadway introduces children ages 10-17 to life onstage and behind the scenes, with training in acting, scene study, improvisation, music theory, solo and ensemble singing and dance. The self-contained, traveling workshop, staffed by choreographers, musicians and real Broadway performers, is held from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and runs June 17-21 at a fee of $550, which includes a T-shirt, daily lunch and snacks.

 

Camp Theatre Jacksonville

2032 San Marco Blvd., San Marco, 396-4425 ext. 16, theatrejax.com

Theatre Jacksonville’s annual summer camp, for ages 7-13, is offered in two four-week sessions from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Camp is held June 17-July 12, and July 15-Aug. 9. Both sessions offer acting, dance, playwriting, stage makeup and stage combat. Camps culminate with a show. Multiple enrollments discounts and extended care are available. Camp fee is $500 per session.

 

Children’s Art Classes

8411 Baymeadows Way, Ste. 2, Baymeadows, 612-7557, childrensartclasses.com

Art workshops are held June 24-July 26, Mon.-Fri., for ages 3 and older, ranging from beginning drawing to clay and mask-making.

 

Culinary Arts Cooking Camp

First Coast Technical College, 2980 Collins Ave., St. Augustine, 547-3461, fctc.edu

The cooking camp is held 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Mon.-Thur. June 17-20, July 8-11, 15-18 and 22-25, in sessions for kids ages 8-12 and 13-17. The fee is $195 which includes materials, groceries, professional instruction and lunch.

 

The Cultural Center at Ponte Vedra Beach

50 Executive Way, Ponte Vedra Beach, 280-0614, ccpvb.org

Camps are offered to encourage artistic expression, art appreciation and imagination through the visual, culinary and performing arts. Weekly thematic sessions are held 9 a.m.-2 p.m. for ages 6-18, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. for ages 4 and 5, weekdays, and run June 10-Aug. 16. Fees vary by session. Extended care is available. Campers bring their own lunches; snacks and art supplies are provided. Call for schedules and fees.

Summer Arts Workshops for ages 9 and older include fashion sewing, June 10-14 and 17-21; French pastry June 17-21; Rock Star Band with Alex Hayward of Chroma, June 24-28; Classic Baking July 8-12, at A. Chefs Studio; Free Range Animation, July 15-19; Construction Art with sculptor Jesse Nolan, July 22-26; American Classics cooking, Aug. 5-9 and Glass Work, Aug. 12-16. Call for details and fees.

 

Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens

829 Riverside Ave., Riverside, 355-0630, cummer.org

Camp Cummer, for kids entering grades 1-6, is held 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m., weekdays, June 10-July 26. Kids draw, paint, construct and explore art and nature. Middle school camp is held July 29-Aug. 2. Space is limited; call for fees and schedules. Extended care is available.

 

Dance Trance

214 Orange St., Neptune Beach, 246-4600, dancetrancefitness.com

Dance Trance Kidz runs dance fitness classes all summer in Neptune Beach, 4:30-5:15 p.m. every Wed. In this fun workshop, kids ages 7-11 learn choreography to popular music without recitals or contracts.

 

Dansations

8763 Old Kings Road S., Baymeadows, 731-0508

Experienced instructors teach ballet, pointe (for appropriate ages), tap, jazz, hip-hop, musical theater, modern and more. Call for schedules and fees.

 

Doing Dishes

5619 San Jose Blvd., Mandarin, 730-3729

3568 St. Johns Ave. S., Avondale, 388-7088

This summer art camp offers specialized paint-your-own-pottery, clay works and glass fusing instruction in a small group setting for kids ages 6 and older. Themed sessions are held from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. weekdays, June 24-Aug. 9. Games, pizza parties and movies are featured. Sibling discounts are available.

 

Dolphin Arts Camp

2800 University Blvd. N., Arlington, 256-7048, ju.edu

This arts camp is held June 10-14 and 17-21. Art, theatre, dancing, singing, swimming and playing games are featured. For details, times and fees, call or go online.

 

Eaton Piano Studio

Southside, 730-5143, eatonpianostudio.com

Instructor Lorraine Eaton offers summer music lessons for kids of all ages, once weekly for 45 minutes, June 10-Aug. 16. Mommy and Me, (ages 0-3) 5 p.m. Thur., $60; Preschool Music & Piano, 6 p.m. Tue. and Thur., $125/$150; private piano lessons (7-adult) Mon., Wed. and Fri., $225. Tuition fees are for the whole summer, materials included. Call for a free interview.

 

The Florida Ballet Summer Intensive

300 E. State St., Downtown, 353-7518

The Florida Ballet offers a course for the serious dance student. Daily classes, held June 24-July 27, include ballet, pointe, technique, acting, Pilates and jazz, as well as a boys’ class. Seminars in dance history, music appreciation, auditioning skills, theater and makeup are offered. The summer workshop is held June 24-July 27 for younger or less advanced dancers. For fees and audition information, go to floridaballet.org

 

Florida State University Summer Music Camps

202 Longmire Bldg., FSU, Tallahassee, (850) 644-9934, (850) 645-7272, music.fsu.edu

FSU offers workshops in double reed, tuba & euphonium, and double bass; camps include string orchestra, marching band leadership, honors choral ensemble, honors jazz ensemble, honors piano and honors chamber winds. Each camp provides musical, social and recreational opportunities, offered to middle school and high school students. Call or go online for fees and schedule information.

 

Girls Rock Camp Jacksonville

girlsrockjacksonville.org

This one-week summer day camp is held July 29-Aug. 2, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, 2445 San Diego Road in the urban core; the after-camp showcase is held on Aug. 4 at The Florida Theatre, 128 E Forsyth St., Downtown. Girls ages 9-16 learn an instrument (or get better at one they already know), form a band, and write a song. Throughout the week, bands perform during lunch. Dance parties and daily workshops are featured. Camp fee is $200.

 

High School Summer Musical Theatre Experience

Wilson Center, FSCJ’s South Campus, 11901 Beach Blvd., Southside, 632-2347, fscj.edu

This year, participants who are current 7th-12th grade students in Duval, Clay, St. Johns, Nassau and outer-lying counties perform “How to Succeed in Business Without really Trying” from July 26-Aug. 4. Free auditions are held May 4 and 5. Local high school actors, dancers, singers, technicians and musicians are needed. SMTE provides the opportunity to work hands-on with local theater professionals. Call for fee information; scholarships are available.

 

Jacksonville Children’s Chorus

225 E. Duval St., Downtown, 353-1636

Jacksonville Children’s Chorus is open to all Northeast Florida kids, providing music education for children of all backgrounds, fostering teamwork, self-discipline, accomplishment and pride.

 

Jacksonville University Summer Dance Intensive

2800 University Blvd. N., Arlington, 256-7048, [email protected]

This two-week camp, for intermediate and advanced students ages 10-22, is held 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Fri., June 17-21 and 24-28. Classes include ballet, contemporary ballet, pointe, variations, modern, contemporary, jazz, hip-hop, tap, Pilates, stretch, dance photography and repertory. Fees are $310 for one week, $570 for two weeks, which includes lunch. Scholarships are available.

 

JCA Stage Door Theatre Camp

Jewish Community Alliance

8505 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, 730-2100 ext. 252, jcajax.org

This theater camp is for children entering grades 1-9. Campers receive training in music, dance, drama, and arts and crafts. Camp runs from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m., June 17-July 12 and July 15-Aug. 9, with extended day available. Lunch is provided. Camp is open to children of all national origins and faiths. Call or go online for fees and other details.

 

KidzArt

1140 S. McDuff Ave., Riverside, 287-8603, kidzartnfl.com

1714 S.R. 13, St. Johns

60 Orange St., St. Augustine

This art-enrichment program lets children discover various artistic styles and techniques using water colors, art markers, colored pencils, chalk, charcoal and polymer clay. Themed programs include “Beach Bash” and “Safari Adventure.” Classes range from a few hours to a half-day for a partial or full week, depending on the child’s age, June 17-Aug. 9.

 

Kinderstudios

1897 Island Walkway, Ste. 4, Fernandina Beach, 415-0954

The performing arts camp sessions, for kids 4-12 years old, are held from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Mon.-Fri., July 1-26, with a theatrical performance each Fri. Sessions feature themed drawing, painting, set design, song and dance and drama games from “Willy Wonka,” “Matilda,” “Tangled” and “Mamma Mia!”

 

LaVilla School of the Arts Summer Camp

501 N. Davis St., Downtown, 633-6069 ext. 108

This camp offers programs for kids ages 3-17. Camps are held 9 a.m.-3 p.m., weekdays, June 17-July 26. Free lunch, snacks and extended day ($30/week) are available. Discounts are available for siblings, urban core employees (Downtown, San Marco, Springfield, Riverside), DCPS employees, military and multi-week enrollment. Fees are $145 week for ages 3-6; $135 week for older campers.

 

Limelight Theatre Summer Camp

11 Old Mission Ave., St. Augustine, 825-1164, limelight-theatre.org

KIDZfACTory offers camps for kids in grades K-5, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. June 17-July 10; grades 10-12, 1-4 p.m. July 1-24; grades 6-9 9 a.m.-12:45 p.m. July 22-Aug. 14. Fees are $450 per child per session. For program details and performance schedules, call or go online.

 

Museum of Florida Art

600 N. Woodland Blvd., Deland, (386) 734-4371, museumoffloridaart.org

Camp sessions are held Mon.-Fri. at Johnson Children’s Art Center June 10-Aug. 2. Kids experience variety of media, including painting, drawing, printmaking, mixed media and sculpture. Each session is led by professional art educators and artists. Fees vary; call for details.

 

North Florida Conservatory

11363 San Jose Blvd., Ste. 200, Mandarin, 374-8639, nfconservatory.org

This camp offers band, string and theater programs. For camps, fees and schedules, call or go online.

 

North Florida Music Academy

155 Blanding Blvd., Ste. 11, Orange Park, 276-5557, nfma.musicyeachershelper.com

Instructors work with drummers, guitarists, bassists, keyboardists, violinists, vocalists and others interested in playing in a band and learning different music styles. Call for times, fees and dates.

 

North Florida Music Camp

University of North Florida Fine Arts Facility, 1 UNF Drive, Southside, 620-3841

This five-day intensive performance camp, for children entering grades 8-12, focuses on jazz and classical instruction. Campers must have a minimum two years experience on their instruments and basic music reading skills. Camp is held June 23-27.

 

Ortega Arts Camp

Ortega United Methodist Church, 4807 Roosevelt Blvd., Jacksonville, 389-5556 ext. 116

This fine and performing arts camp for children in grades K-6 is held 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. June 10-14. Activities include drawing, painting, sculpture, music and dance. Fee is $120.

 

The Performers Academy

3674 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, 322-7672, theperformersacademy.com

This performing arts school offers Let’s Make a Movie! camp, held 9 a.m.-4 p.m. weekdays, June 10-July 12, encompassing singing, dancing, acting, guitar, musical theater and songwriting. For fees, dates and details, call the Academy or go to the website. CooperMorgan Dance Theatre Summer Intensive is held 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. June 10-28, for ages 8 and older. The recreational and pre-professional dance camp mixes traditional and modern techniques, culminating in a dance production at LaVilla School of the Arts. Call for fees and details.

 

Planet Pottery

1108 A1A N., Ste. 104, Ponte Vedra, 543-1112

Adults and kids select a piece of pottery — plates, mugs, serving pieces, vases, frames, pet bowls — then paint a one-of-a-kind ceramic piece. Call for schedules and fees.

 

Players by the Sea Summer Camps

106 Sixth St. N., Jax Beach, 249-0289, playersbythesea.org

PBTS offers small camps that encourage children to express themselves through the arts. Let’s Put on a Play and Let’s Put on a Musical three-week camps are held 9 a.m.-1 p.m. weekdays, June 10-29 and July 15-Aug. 2. Teen Improv-a-thon is held 9 a.m.-3 p.m. July 15-26. Campers rehearse, stage and perform a full-length show. Camp A-Go-Go and Get in the Character Zone are held 9 a.m.-1 p.m. weekdays June 10-14, July 1-5 and July 8-12. Fees vary by session. Check the website for details, registration forms and policies.

 

Positive Space Art Therapy

5270 Palm Valley Rd, Ponte Vedra, 607-2834, [email protected]

arttherapyforautism.wix.com/positivespace#!home/mainPage

Positive Space Art Therapy offers individual and group art therapy sessions for children ages 2 and older. Master’s level art therapist Kelly DeSousa helps kids work toward individualized goals through success-oriented, strength-based, guided creative expression. Sessions are typically 30-50 minutes and are scheduled according to individual and family needs. Rates begin at $35.

 

Pottery Works

10915 Baymeadows Road, Ste. 106, Baymeadows, 646-3009, potteryworksinc.co

This paint-your-own-pottery studio offers reservations for groups of eight or more, with special rates for schools, daycare centers and camps. Studio time includes all supplies, glazing and firing. Participants pick up their finished pieces one week later. Pottery Works can also bring the activity to you (10 or more participants required).

 

Puddy Mud Pottery Studio

852 Anastasia Blvd., St. Augustine, 810-5603, puddymud.com

Kids paint their own ceramic pottery. Sessions are held 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Mon.-Thur., June 17-Aug. 15. Kids work with clay, and learn sculpting, ceramic painting, glass fusing, tie-dye and crafts. Call for fees and camp details.

 

Riverside Children’s Arts Center

2841 Riverside Ave., Riverside, 389-1751, riversideartscenter.org

Located at Riverside Avenue Christian Church, the arts center offers six weeks of camp for children completing PreK-fifth grades, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Mon.-Fri., July 29-Aug. 14. Classes include visual arts, music, specialty classes, team-building games and outdoor play daily. Theme dress-up days and Friday performances are featured. Extended care, scholarships and sibling discounts are available.

 

Savannah College of Art and Design

231 W. Boundary St., Savannah, Ga., (912) 525-5100, (800) 869-7223, scad.edu

SCAD summer seminars are held for students who have completed grades 9-11. Fees vary according to schedule. For more information, contact the college at P.O. Box 2072, Savannah, GA 31402-2072.

 

St. Augustine Dance Conservatory

3670 U.S. 1 S., Ste. 150, St. Augustine, 797-6469, academyofperformingarts.net

North Campus, 3025 C.R. 210, Ste. 102, St. Augustine, 797-6469

APA offers kids, tots to teens, participation in musical and dance productions and recitals throughout the summer. A dance intensive is held Aug. 20-23 with Preston Miller. Call for schedules and fees.

 

Summer Dance Intensive

Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, 2445 San Diego Road, Jacksonville, 390-2971, da-arts.org

This camp is held for kids in grades 4-12. Session I runs June 12, 13, 17, 18 and 19; Session II is held June 20, 24, 25, 26 and 27. Classes include ballet, modern dance, jazz, musical theater and technique. Call for details and fee information.

 

Youth Outreach Performing Arts Summer Institute

5188 Norwood Ave., Northside, 765-7372, stageaurora.org

Stage Aurora Theatrical Company offers youth of all backgrounds camp featuring positive theatrical activities, theater, dance, music and taekwondo. The five-week camp is held June 17-July 19. For registration and details, call or go to the website.

 

 

 

CHURCH CAMPS & PROGRAMS

 

Dinsmore Vacation Bible School

Dinsmore United Methodist Church, 10604 Iowa Ave., Jacksonville, 768-6101

A lively Vacation Bible School is held in July. Call the church for details and directions.