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KEEP IT LIGHT:
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Things We Love
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A quarterly resource celebrating family life in Roseville and beyond
Winter Issue 2020/2021 November - December - January
Winter Holiday Fun Puzzles, Games, Recipes, and More!
Sumiti Mehta
Happy Holidays from all of us at Growing Up Roseville. ‘Wishing you and yours a joyous holiday season and a happy, healthy New Year! Without the help of our advertisers, contributors, readers, and staff, we could not produce this magazine. We want to send out a heartfelt thank you for your support and for making this magazine possible. Happy reading!
Marne Larsen Publisher marne@growinguproseville.com (530) 518-6154
DeAnna Holman Layout Design/Editor
For advertising information please contact: Lindsay Trenz, Advertising Executive: Lindsay@growinguproseville.com (916) 698-5467 Advertising Deadline: To advertise in our upcoming Spring Issue, please contact us by January 6th. Our Spring Issue will be on stands February, March, and April. Article and Photo Submission Deadline: Please submit family-friendly and seasonallyappropriate photos and informative articles for the Spring Issue by December 20th. Send to marne@growinguproseville.com. Growing Up Roseville Magazine is published quarterly and available, free, at over 200 family-friendly locations throughout Roseville, Rocklin, Lincoln, Loomis, and Granite Bay. We are also available online at www.growinguproseville.com. Copyright © 2020 by Growing Up Roseville Magazine. All rights reserved. Reproductions without permission are prohibited. Articles and advertisements found in Growing Up Roseville Magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the management. We reserve the right to edit. Every effort is made to avoid errors, misspellings, and omissions. If an error is found, please accept our sincere apologies and notify us of the mistake.
Sumiti is Sacramento-based mother to two boys. She is the Youth, Park, and Community Enrichment commissioner for City of Sacramento (D1). She serves on several Natomas Unified School District committees. She was a Guest Contributor for ABC 10 digital series “Moms Explain All” and “Three Moms and a Dad.” Sumiti has been nominated for the N Factor Community awards.
Kelly McGinnis Kelly is a “Certified Bring Baby Home Educator” and “Certified Incredible Coach.” She has been helping parents for the past 14 years. She enjoys helping parents move from frustration to fascination and restore joy and peace to homes across the country. She is married and has the privilege to be called Mom by her three beautiful girls. To find out more about all that Kelly offers, please visit www.shineonfamily.com.
Kara Haug Kara is a Sexual Health Educator and is a co-owner of her business called Reframing our Stories LLC. Kara spends her time teaching comprehensive sexual health to families, schools, and churches. It is her passion to help people learn how to have these important conversations and to provide them with tools to have nourishing relationships.
Rob Baquera Rob Baquera is the Public Information Officer for the City of Roseville Police Department. Rob has years of experience working in public safety and specializes in crime prevention, emergency preparedness, and crisis communications. Rob has three young kids and knows first-hand that there is nothing more important than the safety of children.
Placer County Moms Placer County Moms is an Instagram page filled with Placer County fun for families. Our page is full of family-friendly activities, products, and tips for all ages. We love to feature all the fun places and activities in and around Placer County. Go check out placercounty.moms on Instagram to see our latest ideas!
Allison Hopkins Allison is a freelance writer who loves to interview people and tell their stories. Her goal is to use her writing to help others. She enjoys traveling with her husband and their 12-year-old son. You can find her at www.editsbyalli.com.
Christa Melnyk Hines Christa is a nationally-published freelance writer and author. She is a mom to two sons who love a good story as much as she does!
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see what’s inside...
School and Home
08 Connect Through The Magic of Storytelling
10 Keeping Kids Safe On The Internet 12 School News
13 Winding Creek: A New Community
08
In Roseville
14 Silent Night
15 Write To Lead: Writing Spree 2020
Parenting
16 Raising Boys In A #MeToo Era 17 7 Things We Love Right Now
18 How To Be Your Child’s Emotion Coach
20 Sami’s Circuit Goes The Distance 21 Winter Fun Checklist
10 14
Arts and Crafts
22 DIY Winter Activities
Winter Fun
24 Upcoming Events
17
25 Kids Can Cook Wining Recipe
26 10 Ways To Simplify The Season 27 Win It Wednesday Giveaways 28 Sensory Scavenger Hunt
24
29 Winter Puzzles
30 Local Resources
In Every Issue... 04 Contributors 31 Preschool Directory 31 Advertiser Directory
29
Winter Events
school and home www.growingroseville.com
Connect Through the Magic of Storytelling by Christa Melnyk Hines
“Why do you have a badger skin?” inquired my six-year-old nephew. My family, along with a small group of other adults and children, formed a semicircle in the shadowy quiet of a reconstructed Native American encampment earth lodge at a children’s nature center. Christine Freeman, an employee, had been guiding us through the Kanza Indians’ lifestyle, showing us how the Plains’ tribe crafted bows and arrows and used turtle shells for soup bowls and as calendars.
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growing up roseville magazine
She reached over and picked up the skin. “This is actually a raccoon,” she said as she placed it over her shoulder. Sitting down, she ran her hand along the fluffy, circled tail. “If you have time for a story, I’ll tell you how the animals worked out night and day,” she said. We all leaned in a little closer. By listening to Freeman recount the myth about the animals, we learned how Native Americans taught their children why days are split into nighttime and daytime.
alone in our human experiences. Stories serve to entertain, inspire, teach compassion and other values, and stoke admiration and respect for the generations of individuals who came before us. Studies also show that storytelling enhances a child’s language development, emergent reading, and comprehension skills. “A story is a way to be in connection with our children and be in empathy and sympathy with them without giving advice or laying down the law,” says Robin Moore, professional storyteller and author of Creating a Family Storytelling Tradition: Awakening the Hidden Storyteller. A penny for your thoughts? Nicole Keck, mom of three boys, ages 6, 4, and 2, found storytelling is like a window into her children’s minds. Her sons take turns telling stories before bedtime. “(The stories) may be funny or serious, true or fiction. We like that it gives us precious insights into what they’re thinking about,” Keck says. “Knowing what makes them tick is an invaluable tool in guiding and supporting them. Besides, they’re very witty, and it’s just great entertainment!”
Freeman, who is also a mom of two adult sons, knows that her audience is more likely to listen and retain the information when she weaves information into a story. “Storytelling is ageless. It appeals to everyone,” she says. “With children, it’s a great way to catch their attention.”
Expand creativity. Just like imaginative play, stories help children sort through problems and work through issues. “The more stories that kids can relate to others, the more ability they have to use their imagination and to become problem solvers,” says Joyce Slater, a professional storyteller and performing arts teacher.
Learn through storytelling. Stories put our experiences into perspective, comforting us with the knowledge that we aren’t
Research suggests that families who tell stories report higher levels of happiness, closeness, and adaptability.
“My favorite thing about storytelling has to be showing my kids how fun it is to really embrace one’s own creativity and not to be shy about exploring and sharing one’s imagination,” says Kevin Doyle, a children’s book author and father of two, ages 7 and 3. He began telling stories to his daughter when she was just a toddler. Doyle’s children especially desire imaginative, adventurous stories with pretend characters. “Those are my favorite to think up and the kids’ favorites to hear. Bedtime is our primary storytime. That’s the best time to unwind and help everyone relax,” he says. As an author, Doyle knows a thing or two about spinning yarns that appeal to kids. However, you don’t have to be a professional storyteller to entertain your kids with your tales. Tell life stories. Kids love to hear about parents’ adventures when they were kids. In particular, family stories shape a child’s understanding of his family’s values, a sense of right and wrong, and appropriate social behavior both in the family and in the world. “One of the stories that kids should always know is the story about their birth,” Slater says. “‘What was the day like? Who was there? Why do I have this name?’ It becomes a real self-identifying process if you know how you came into being and why somebody chose your name.” Encourage listening. Most of all, storytelling creates space for you to connect with your children. Begin with books. “Find a subject that you like, read the story, and then talk about it. It’s a great way to open up a conversation with your children,” Freeman says. “Listen to each other. Sometimes we don’t listen enough. There’s nothing wrong with just sitting and talking.”
Other Segues to Storytelling: •
Use a puppet or act out a story instead of reading it.
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When your child asks a question, try providing the answer in story form.
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Look through the family photo album together and share stories about the people in the photos.
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Play charades to tell a story.
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Take turns pulling an object out of a box or bag and telling a story about the object.
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Integrate old photos into your home: the decor of grandparents, interesting relatives, or ancestors to spark storytelling opportunities.
school and home www.growinguproseville.com growing up roseville magazine 10
Keeping Kids Safe On The Internet By: Rob Baquera Public Information Officer Roseville Police Department
For the past few months, many students have been distance learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and no one knows how the rest of the school year will unfold. Even the youngest students have mastered the routine of logging in every morning for class. Technology has allowed for education to continue despite the pandemic. However, with kids spending more time online, many parents have safety concerns. Whether you have a high school or elementary student at home, internet dangers remain the same. Here are a few that you may have on your radar: • Predators – When your child is online, the world is at their fingertips. Predators may pretend to be children or teenagers in order to talk to kids online. They may use a fake profile picture and add other profile details to appear more convincing. Predators may try to arrange a face-to-face meeting with a child or teen. Even if the person seems nice, this can be dangerous. • Cyberbullying – This was a problem before COVID 19, but cyberbullying may be even more common. With the increased stress and pressures, some may turn to the internet as an outlet. This is often through instant messaging, text messages, emails, and social networks. Cyberbullies may be the same age as the victims, or they may be older. • Privacy – Like many adults, kids love to use social media to connect
and share with their friends. However, it’s important for parents to remind their children that there are more strangers than friends online. Kids need to realize that once they post online, even in the most “private” way, it can’t be taken back and could come back to haunt them for years. With kids spending more time online for school, parents need to be proactive when it comes to online safety. Minimize the dangers your child faces online by monitoring their distance learning, setting limits on screen time, and teaching them how to be safe online. Monitor your child’s online learning. Get to know what platform your child’s school is using and become familiar with it. Additionally, take a genuine interest in what types of games and apps your child enjoys during their free time. This will help you better understand what your child is doing online. For older children, it is not necessary to watch over their shoulder. However, look over their learning material and make sure you understand what they will be required to do online. Set limits and monitor internet use. Know your child’s school schedule. What time do they go online for school and for how long? Set time limits for internet use outside of schoolwork to ensure your child is spending time on other healthy activities. Consider having an open-door policy when your
child uses the internet in their room so they’re not tempted to hide inappropriate activity. Teach your child internet safety practices. Since you can’t oversee every minute your children are online, it’s important to teach them about internet dangers and how to keep safe. Having an open dialogue with your children will build trust and allow them to come to you when problems arise. Most importantly, teach your children what to do if they become the victim of a predator or online attack. Depending on your child’s age, here are a few basic safety tips that you can build upon. • Never give out personal information (i.e. name, birth date, or location). • Never meet someone from an online conversation, even if the person seems nice. It’s easy for predators to disguise themselves. • Use school-appropriate behavior in forums. Don’t post information that could hurt others or themselves. • Protect passwords and change them regularly. • Let your child know they can always come to you with concerns or questions. Whether your child is online for school, to use social media, or play games, safety is a real concern. It’s important to teach kids about online dangers and how to be internet safe.
UC Master Gardeners of Placer County Release Their
2021 Garden Guide Calendar Smart Choices For Gardening Success
There has been a surge this year in people interested in growing their own food and the UC Master Gardeners of Placer County have published a unique Gardening Guide and Calendar that taps into that interest and can help Northern Californians, from beginners to experts, create, grow, and harvest a healthy, sustainable garden. The 29th edition of the Guide/Calendar presents the latest and the best University of California researched information as you follow the calendar through 13 months of in-depth articles and daily tips timed to the changing seasons. Do you want to know how to protect your plants for winter or how to encourage bees in your garden? This publication has the information for you. Each month you will learn what to plant during the month and also what is in season at the local markets. Additional charts, tables, and resources, accompanied by beautiful local photos, provide a wealth of information that any level of gardener will appreciate. Calendars are available at nurseries and businesses in Placer, Nevada, and El Dorado counties, and through the UC Master Gardeners of Placer County website. A list of vendors and how-to-order details can be found at: http://pcmg.ucanr.org/2021_Calendar The 2021 Gardening Guide and Calendar is an important fund-raiser for the organization and one of many ways in which master gardeners serve the community. For information about other master gardener activities and events, visit the UC Master Gardeners of Placer County website at: pcmg.ucanr.org or call (530) 889-7388.
school and home www.growinguproseville.com
School News.. From Derk Garcia: Fall is upon us and I can’t help but wonder what 2020 has yet to unleash. So many of our experiences have been unpredictable, out of our control, and challenging. While we are working on plans to reopen, we’ve learned that flexibility and adaptability are the names of the game. And the biggest tool in the Roseville City School District toolbox? The input and support from our families, staff, and community. This has helped us ensure we have a forum so all voices can be heard. During the September 10 virtual RCSD board meeting, we heard more than 100 public comments from the community. RCSD has always benefitted from actively engaged and involved families, and their passion to have their voices heard is stronger than ever. This input helps us to put children at the center of every decision we make. It’s clear that families, RCSD staff and board members, and the community at large, want the best for our children as they strive to make sense of the wild world around them. I am thoroughly grateful for each public comment, positive or negative, because the District can’t do it alone - we rely on hearing the concerns, priorities, and input from the community to help us craft plans and make choices that affect us all. Thank you for standing beside us as our partner in education. Throughout the reopening planning stages, I have learned from the families of our 11,000+ students that there is not a one-size-fits-all solution. While some families are eager to step foot back into the classroom, others have found a consistent groove at home. While some families have health and safety concerns, others feel confident in the protocols we’ve put in place with direction from State and Local health officials. All this is to say that none of us have the perfect solution. What we do have is each other and the desire to do our very best for our children with what we have, when we have it.
From Jess Borjon: Change of Seasons Brings Sense of Normalcy
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Throughout these turbulent months, I’ve made it a point to find normalcy in the everyday. I’ve noticed the concept of time has brought me a bit of comfort. When it seems like the world is upside down, I remind myself that the world keeps turning and time will march on. Although we’ve been consumed with COVID-19 this school year, I can’t help but get excited for our upperclassmen as they enter the fall season. Traditionally, the months of October and November keep our seniors busy. They whittle down college applications, submit their FAFSA (which is now available for the 2020-2021 school year), and prepare for one last SAT and/or ACT. Our juniors will begin looking to visit colleges in the spring to get ahead of this process, collaborating with their counselors and senior friends who can provide helpful tips and advice. While today may still feel uncertain, it’s comforting to know that we continue to plan for our future. As I look toward the holidays, I am reminded that fall inspires us to give thanks. Well, my thanksgiving has already begun because I have never been more thankful for the students, staff, and families who continue to find resilience despite challenges and respect each other for the assets that we bring. Although differences exist, it is the connections and relationships that will stand the test of time. This year, let’s choose to see the change of season in a positive way, looking for the normalcy that still exists in our traditions.
New Roseville Community Attracting Unprecedented Interest As Major Segment Of Highly Anticipated Road Expansion Opens More than 1500 people from throughout California and as far away as New Hampshire and India have registered their interest in Winding Creek. The new 500-acre master-planned community in northwest Roseville will have model homes debuting in early 2021. Winding Creek’s website and initial marketing campaign launched mid-July amidst the pandemic and rolling lock-downs. Once complete, its more than 2,000 new family homes will be connected to parks, a new elementary school, and retail amenities through an integrated trail network, walking paths, and bridges, set against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. “The impressive interest in Winding Creek during these times is evidence of the thoughtful planning that’s been underway on this project for more than eight years,” says Matt Gustus, Vice President Home Building at Anthem United, Winding Creek’s developer. “Our goal has always been to ensure this new community supports the needs of both current and future Roseville community members, along with making a positive contribution to the overall growth of the area.” Those needs include long-overdue infrastructure improvements to ease ongoing traffic congestion for the broader Roseville community. The last major phase of road construction designed, built, and funded by Anthem United opened to traffic on
September 18th. It includes the extension of Westbrook north to Winding Creek, Westbrook south of Blue Oaks, and Blue Oaks west of Westbrook. Gustus says, “The road extensions are a costeffective and timely addition that will cut emergency response times in half from Fire Station 9 to west Roseville. They also make it easier for residents throughout the broader community to get where they need to go.” Among Winding Creek’s other contributions is a 9.26-acre site reserved for a mix of commercial and office uses. The site will complement new retail locations planned for the area, including Raley’s and Nugget Grocery stores. Roseville’s significant growth also includes the new West Park High School, located less than a mile from Winding Creek and now open to families moving into the area. Winding Creek is developed by Anthem United, in partnership with a host of local consultants including Fuhrman Leamy Land Group, Procida Landscape, Inc., MacKay & Somps Civil Engineers, Inc., Salix Consulting, Inc., Teichert Construction, Geocon Consultants, Inc, Dokken Engineering and Marques Pipeline, Inc. For more information about Winding Creek visit windingcreekroseville.com.
school and home www.growinguproseville.com www.growingupchico.com growing up up chico roseville magazine 1414 growing magazine
Silent Night By Kara Haug
“We are not always shown the beauty that happens when we open ourselves up, especially when we can sit with others in the stillness of a room.”
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very Christmas Eve, when I was growing up, my family attended the late-night church service. My brothers and I would wait for the moment when the candles were lit to sing “Silent Night.” We waited because, without a doubt, our mother’s chin would begin to quiver, and tears would stream down her cheek. We would all look at each other and giggle. Even in high school, we would still all giggle as if to say, “Look, mom is crying again.” Looking back, it is a bit silly that we would respond that way, yet as adults, we tell our kids to look at Grandma to capture the sight of her vulnerability and tears. Though we would snicker at her, it’s something that I love the most about my mother. I recognize that at that moment, all of my mother’s hopes and dreams come to gather. My mother becomes like a child, seeking solace in another innocent childborn in a moment of peace- away from the world and its harsh realities. It’s a time where she feels unconditional love and great gratitude. Both of my children had particular songs that they wanted me to sing to them each night. My son likes “Hush Little Baby,” and my daughter always asked for “Silent Night.” There is something sweet about “Silent Night” that brought her to a place of rest and solace – as it does for my mother. When I would sing it to her, her little body would instantly relax, she would breathe deeply, and she allowed herself to let go. Her body would rest in the stillness of the silent night, and her worries would slip away through our nighttime tradition. December brings a time of waiting.
Children await Christmas day and unwrapping of presents, and we look forward to time away from work to be with friends and family. For some, the busyness of this time of year with parties, obligations, cards, and gift-buying can make life seem more chaotic and stressful. However, there are also moments where we sit in our living rooms with the lights down low, drinking hot chocolate, and taking in the ambiance of the lighted tree casting shadows of our loved ones. We remember those who have passed, we think of those who are with us, and we wonder. In the silence of the night, we are invited into the place where we can slow down and notice. We notice the way the lights shimmer and twinkle, not just on the tree, but in the eyes of those we love. Like the times when I would sing to my daughter, and she would wrap my arms around her in the darkness of her room – it is a time where we reach out and hold on to traditions, hope, family, and love. We live in a time when it seems like we need reminders to practice civility, intimacy, and vulnerability. We get easily distracted by the busyness of life and the glow of our screens. We should be in the moment, seeing the goodness in those close to us. These silent nights can serve as a reminder of what is important. It is about loving and learning how to do that the best we can. As a Sexual Health Educator, I spend a lot of time teaching youth to recognize intimacy and empathy. I help them realize that the risk that comes with vulnerability is essential in creating healthy relationships. We also spend time going over how good communication looks even though it can be
challenging. We are not always shown the beauty that happens when we open ourselves up, especially when we can sit with others in the stillness of a room. Love is not always about feelings and passion. It also is about being steadfast, working through the difficult moments together, sacrificing when needed, being the receiver at times, showing up, and listening. Love is about creating healthy boundaries to care for our souls and helping others learn about theirs. This is what we can remember and commit to doing more of when we are silent. I know that families and communities can have differences, and learning how to work together can be quite hard. No one promised us it would be easy. We need to work for what we want in our relationships, and though we may not be successful every time, be willing to try again with dignity. We need to help our children learn how to do the same. In this holiday season, during a year in which we all have endured sadness, sacrifice, loss, grief, and pain, we can still feel a sense of unconditional love and hope as we remember what is important. May we become a community who reaches out and sees the wonder and sparkle in the eyes of our neighbors and those we hold dear. May we learn to be comfortable again in the silence and stillness of a room, and may we embrace intimacy and vulnerability. Last year, I was not able to be with my mother at Christmas, and when “Silent Night” was sung, I was the one with the tears, and I missed her. I felt vulnerable, and for a moment, a sense of hope, gratitude, and love.
Writing Spree 2020 Calling all students 6-16! The Writing Spree 2020 is for students ages 6-16 to be able to use their creativity to create book reviews, movie reviews, articles, and stories. To find out more about the Writing Spree 2020 or to send in your submission, please visit www.writetolead.com. Writetolead is a safe platform for rising authors 6-16 years of age to publish their book reviews, movie reviews, videos, articles, and stories. Writetolead was created in January 2019 by a local 15-year-old-student, Akshaj Mehta (pictured below). As the Creator and Chief Editor, Akshaj has brought on 3 wonderful contributing editors Aabha (6th grader) from Sacramento, Ashley (5th Grader) from Sacramento, and Dipika (8th grader) From India. To date, they have more than 100 submissions from across the USA and India! Find them on Facebook and Instagram or send an email to: contact@writetolead. com
parenting
Raising Boys In A
www.growingupchico.com www.growinguproseville.com
Era By Sumiti Mehta
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y husband Sudeep and I have two boys, Atiksh, 8, and Akshaj, 14, and we want to raise them to be good human beings who are happy, kind, and respectful of everyone.
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There was a time when I thought good parenting is about teaching kids to be courteous and empathetic, and to make their beds, be hygienic and help around the house. Instead, I find myself talking to them about gun control, mental health, inclusivity, sexism, all-gender bathrooms, etc. Just the mere thought of either of my children being harassed or harassing another child is enough to keep me awake all night. I am sure any parent has the same worry. Raising boys in the #MeToo era has many significant questions. One is: How can we successfully raise sons to understand the need for mutual respect, inclusivity across genders, and empathy for all? We all agree that girls can do anything, including playing with cars and being good at maths and science.
But what can boys do? Boys are still at risk of being mocked when they cry, play with dollhouses or kitchen sets, or wear pink. Pre-teens and teen boys are under great pressure to “act like a man,” which often means fitting into a stereotype that makes them shut down their feelings, which results in anxiety and depression. We need to let our sons express their weak moments and emotions and make a constant effort to listen to them and understand them. If they feel empowered, they will listen, react, and embrace everyone, including their parents. We told both our boys that it is OK to nurture and be nurtured. This will, in turn, make them better human beings. Until a few years ago, it was a struggle for me to break these stereotypes in my own house. I grew up in the 1980s and ’90s in India, where boys and girls are traditionally divided. So as we raise our family in the United States, my husband and I are mindful of what we model at our house. We are
“Teaching respect in a #MeToo era starts with parents”
consciously breaking gender stereotypes in our daily lives. My sons Akshaj and Atiksh do not see traditional gender roles in our house; Sudeep and I swap our chores and work as a team. Sudeep is in consulting, so he travels, but whenever he is home, the boys have seen him prepare breakfast and dinner and help with cleaning and laundry. This has made our boys understand that there are no genderspecific chores. The boys help every day with dishes, cooking, and dusting. I hope this will make them grow up caring and understanding boyfriends, husbands, and fathers. Akshaj has a nurturing quality that is setting a good example for his younger brother. He even cooks and helps with Atiksh’s homework when I am out at meetings. Sudeep and I do feel fortunate that we can talk openly to boys to make them understand the terms “sexism” and “gender inclusivity,” but as parents, we are still learning every day. Believe me, parenting has no short cuts, and it does not come with hacks.
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THINGS WE LOVE RIGHT NOW
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Love Notes Nothing can stop your love from reaching your child, and in I’ll Love You for Always, that love is always on hand in the form of 6 beautiful notes that you can write straight into the book! As a young child travels through life’s peaks and valleys, sunshine, and shadow, colorful love birds appear carrying 6 different notes of love and reassurance.
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Let’s Bake! Make baking with the family extra special for your littlest helpers with these child-sized baking sets. Each is a perfect fit for play kitchens, but fully functional in your kitchen.
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Custom Towels Locally made towels by Christy’s Bowtique, with all your kids’ favorite themes and characters, would make great gifts. Make them extra special by having their names embroidered on their towels. Air Fort No Assembly Required. Perfect for Parties & Sleepovers! Great for screen-free constructive play. Child Safety Tested and Approved. No floor for easy entry and exit.
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Doll High Chair Pink with hearts design, these foldable doll high chairs are easy to store. This high chair fits 18” dolls. These items can be found at www.appleblossombaby.com.
How To Be Your Child’s Emotion Coach
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parenting
By Kelly McGinnis
W
ould you be surprised if I told you one of the biggest reasons parents and children struggle is the inability to achieve their goals? A recent study of 2.1 million people from 140 different countries was surveyed with the primary focus of measuring people’s happiness levels and positive emotions. The study showed that people between the ages of 18-22 showed exceedingly high levels of joy and excitement. Over time, the number of people reporting high levels of happiness decreased until around age 52, where it was an all-time low before slowly increasing. Researchers asked the particularly important question, “What causes these extremely low levels of happiness?” The answer might shock you: PARENTING. Let us look at it in a different way. Parents and kids often have competing goals. All the parents working from home know firsthand how difficult it is to achieve your work goals while simultaneously supporting and helping your children with distance learning. Kids get frustrated, too. They want to spend quality time with Mom and Dad, but we are distracted by our screens or phones. This is just the start of an emotional roller coaster. The next thing we know, our kids act out in defiance, throw a temper tantrum, or behave inappropriately. We immediately jump to action, trying to stop or redirect the behavior, and many times we miss the most important piece.
WHAT EMOTION IS BEHIND THE BEHAVIOR? If you take a minute to review the titles in the parenting section at the local bookstore, you will find a myriad of books offering to help solve many difficult behaviors such as: “How to stop a temper tantrum,” “Getting your child to sleep through the night,” “Why my child won’t eat his broccoli,” “Protect teens from negative effects of social media,” and more. The interesting piece is that all those titles focus on unwanted behavior. In fact, most parenting books focus on fixing behaviors. Dr. John Gottman set out to discover and identify what it takes to raise an emotionally intelligent child. “Dr. Gottman undertook a variety of scientific studies, which led him to the conclusion that the key to good parenting lies in understanding the emotional source of problematic behavior. He performed a detailed laboratory examination of children whose parents interacted with their emotions in various styles. The conclusions he reached were striking.” The parents that used Emotion Coaching and helped their children master the understanding and regulation of emotions were more successful. The children had higher self-confidence levels, performed better in social and academic situations, and were even physically healthier. For decades researchers have been looking into the different types of parenting styles. The findings continue to be the same.
The most successful parents are the ones that can balance high levels of control and direction with high levels of warmth and affection. This idea that we can set limits and boundaries and listen to our children’s opinions so that they feel heard and understood is the heart of Emotion Coaching. When parents take the time to understand, validate, and empathize with their child’s feelings, it opens a pathway to connect and begins to help with setting limits and problem-solving.
5 Simple Steps to Emotion Coaching: •
Step One: Be Aware of Emotions. This step is all about raising awareness. The more we know about our own emotions, the better we can model for our children. Search for clues about how your child may be feeling. Notice their body language, tone of voice, and facial expressions.
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Step Two: Connect With Your Child. Use this as an opportunity to connect with your children. Parents often go right into problem-solving mode and do not think about how the child may be feeling. Spend a minute, turning toward the emotion and understanding the source. Be willing to understand your child’s emotions.
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Step Three: Label the Emotion. The process of helping kids understand and label their feelings is a huge part of creating children with high levels of emotional intelligence. We all have the same basic emotions. Talk about emotions. Help them understand the difference between frustration and anger and the varying degree of emotions. Avoid telling them how they should feel and help them label how they really feel.
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Step Four: Listen, Empathize, Validate. As you listen to your child, share about their feelings, acknowledge and empathize with them. Let them know that we all experience emotions. You can share a personal story with them about a time when you felt the same way. If you are uncomfortable sharing personal stories with your children, share a story about a friend, neighbor, or sibling.
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Step Five: Explore Solutions Together. In this step, you set limits and begin to problem solve. For younger children, parents will need to provide positive options to express their emotions and help the children learn acceptable behaviors for the emotion. Parents help children learn to separate the emotion from the behavior. All emotions are acceptable, but not all behaviors. For older children, walk alongside them as they process the problemsolving piece. Ask questions and let them process. Encourage emotional expression but set limits on behavior. An example of a sassy teen may look like this, “I understand you are feeling frustrated that you can’t see your friends, but you should not yell at me. Let us work together to see if we can come up with a way to connect with your friends.”
The next time your child misbehaves or expresses negative emotions, use it as an opportunity to connect and figure out the underlying cause of the feeling. Put the 5 steps of Emotion Coaching to work in your relationship with your children. I promise you will not be disappointed. *The Gottman Institute Blog
parenting www.growinguproseville.com www.growingupchico.com growing up up chico roseville magazine 2020 growing magazine
Sami’s Circuit Goes the Distance
Reminding Kids Everywhere, You Got This! By Allison Hopkins
Tens of thousands of students in northern California have taken part in Sami Kader’s motivational programs since 2012, and with today’s challenges, they need this more than ever. Just like his program teaches—to never give up—Sami has found a way to continue to reach kids during distance learning through his “On Demand” series. Teachers and parents use Sami’s weekly, 20-minute videos designed to support kids’ physical, mental, and social well-being from Pre-K to sixth grade. Sami grew up in Roseville and began struggling with low self-esteem as a young child. He was mocked and bullied by his peers for being overweight, which resulted in what he refers to as a “negative voice” inside, leading him down a bad path. His story shows how one person can change someone’s course forever. When Sami was 16, a family friend insisted that he join him on daily trips to the gym. There was a lot of resistance initially, but after one year, Sami lost a significant amount of weight and, most importantly, gained more mental strength and respect for himself than can be measured. Sami’s two-part program for the past eight school years has involved talking with students during an initial assembly about what he faced throughout elementary, junior high, and high school, teaching them about the tools he used to believe in himself, and engaging them through fun circuit training workouts throughout the year. For anyone who hasn’t seen
Sami’s training in action, it’s an auditorium full of so much energy that you can’t help but be a little stunned! Fast forward to distance learning of 2020 and the new video platform has enabled Sami’s service to reach school districts and parents located anywhere, anytime. His videos focus on a “circuit of powers,” a social-emotional toolbox. He teaches the kids that much like with a superhero, the powers aren’t something that are given to you. Students are shown that these powers already exist and can be accessed at any time once they understand and learn how to use them. A sample video is included at www.samiscircuit.com/homeschool. Family nights have been a popular part of Sami’s in-person program. Now families of schools that subscribe and others who purchase the On-Demand program can participate in the monthly live virtual events. Each event has a different theme and “field trip” location. Courtney Harbman’s fourth-graders at Foothill Oaks Elementary School in Sacramento have been involved with Sami’s program since kindergarten. They are very excited to watch his videos during their online class on Fridays. Harbman explained that the most recent video she shared with the class talked about being positive and finding the good in everything they are doing right now, followed by a circuit training activity. “Sami has become a part of our school climate for the last six years and participates in our annual jog-a-thon,” said Harbman, a mother of two girls who has been teaching for 20 years. “Trying to get my students to do PE can be very difficult, but Sami comes and they will do absolutely anything he asks them to do. He is a magnet for children…
Winter Checklist
he’s like magic.” Harbman introduced Sami to her school after hearing about the program that her daughter was involved with in Lincoln. Over the years, she has been impressed by his ability to connect with the students who are struggling a little during the circuits and need extra help, explaining that “Sami finds those ones and makes them shine.” For another parent in Roseville, Lindsey West, Sami’s videos have become part of her seven-year-old son’s weekly physical education time as well as a foundation for his social-emotional learning throughout the week. “We’ve been working with our son for a while on positive thinking, resilience, perseverance, and self-motivation,” said West. “Lately, he has been drawing pictures and hiding them for us to find as an end of day activity. In these pictures, he has started putting Sami’s words, ‘You got this’ and ‘Never give up.’” West explained that Sami’s message of overcoming a negative voice from his childhood has really resonated with her son. After learning about the negative voice in one of the first videos, she bought the book of Sami’s story, and they read it from time to time to remind her son that he can overcome negativity and have a happy and healthy life, like Sami. A teacher in Lincoln, Cammie Sahyoun, is excited to have Sami’s program at a brand new school in the district, where she is teaching second grade (distance learning). Many of the kids remember Sami from their previous schools, and their faces light up when they see him on the screen. “I played a video last week when they needed to get up and move, and they all loved it,” said Sahyoun, who’s been teaching 18 years. “They are looking forward to family night next week!” The positive messaging surrounding Sami’s Circuit hits home in a time when it’s truly needed—for teachers, parents, and most importantly, for kids. His weekly videos are working to create new bonds and reinforce existing bonds between Sami and the students; he believes this is key in building resilience. “Sami’s videos go beyond just exercise for us,” said West. “They are helping our son develop the tools he will need to thrive throughout the challenges of life.”
“What used to be a message that I can only give in person is now a message that can reach kids everywhere!” -Sami
31 Things To Do As A Family This Winter 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23.
Go to the snow Make hot chocolate Make cookies Have an indoor scavenger hunt Make homemade soup Watch a Christmas or winter movie Cut out paper snowflakes Eat a candy cane Do a family puzzle Build a blanket fort Sip hot apple cider Splash in puddles Have a no-screen day Write a letter to a friend Read a holiday story Make a pine cone birdfeeder Have a pajama day Play a board game Do a random act of kindness Deliver baked goods to a neighbor Visit a museum, virtually Donate to a food bank Donate toys you are no longer using to a local charity 24. Bundle up and go for a nature walk 25. Drive around and look at holiday lights 26. Go on an outdoor scavenger hunt (see page 28) 27. Eat breakfast in bed 28. Take an online yoga class 29. Make a handmade gift 30. Sit by a fire 31. Make a craft or complete an activity from page 22 or 23
arts & crafts
Fun DIY Winter Activities Provided By Placer County Moms, an Instagram page filled with Placer County fun for families. Our page is full of family friendly activities, products, and tips for all ages. Go check out placercounty.moms on Instagram to see our latest ideas!
www.growinguproseville.com www.growingupchico.com
Sensory Snow
A sensory bin enables kids to make endless discoveries. It allows for open-ended play and imagination. Children love using their imagination while playing. Some benefits of a sensory bin include critical thinking, strengthening fine-motor skills, and hours of play and learning. A sensory bin can consist of a container with a lid and toys/materials which fill the bin. You can also use tools and instruments like tweezers, tongs, scoops, and measuring cups. Below is a great sensory bin for winter time!
Materials List: -Glitter -Baking Soda -Water
In a bowl, dump 1 box of baking soda and some glitter. Slowly add a few tablespoons of water at a time until it is sticking together. Don’t add too much water. Add just enough to get the powder to form snow.
Turkey Bowling
growing up up chico roseville magazine 2222 growing magazine
While cooking a Thanksgiving feast in the kitchen, entertain the children with a game of Turkey Bowling. It is similar to regular bowling, incorporating “turkeys” for pins and pumpkins for bowling balls. It only takes a little bit of prep time for endless hours of play. Enjoy the holiday, and have fun celebrating with friends and family!
Materials List:
- Large Brown cups - Construction paper for the feathers and beaks - Googly Eyes - Hot glue gun Decorate your cups to look like turkeys. You can stack the turkeys or arrange them in a more traditional bowling shape. Roll the pumpkin and see how many you can knock over!
Easiest 3-Ingredient Pumpkin Cookies
It sounds almost too good to be true! Only 3 ingredients for the yummiest cookie, and a quick and easy recipe that kids can make anytime. There is no better treat during fall than a pumpkin treat. If you end up trying these cookies, be sure to tag us on our Instagram!
Ingredients:
1 Box Spice Cake 1 15oz. Can of pumpkin puree 1 Cup chocolate chips of choice…dark, milk, white, butterscotch etc.
Instructions:
Mix everything all together until blended Use a cookie scoop to place scoops onto a greased cookie sheet (about 2 tablespoons each) Bake at 375 degrees for 12 minutes
New Year’s Eve Balloon Countdown
Who has New Year’s Eve plans that don’t include staying up until midnight? Sleep is precious these days, so start the countdown early! A fun way to do that is with a balloon clockpop.
Set Up & Materials needed:
Write down 6-12 activities on small pieces of paper and stuff one paper inside each balloon. Blow up the balloons and put them in a circle like a clock. Use painter’s tape to stick them to the wall.
How to play:
Kids take turns popping balloons with a pin. Then, read the activity inside each balloon and go and do it. Then, pop another balloon when each activity is completed. You can fill as many or as few balloons as you want.
Activity Ideas:
Make NYE hats Have a dance party Make a NYE dessert Eat Pizza Play with play dough Do sparklers Build cup towers Play glowstick hide & seek Play BINGO Watch a ball drop on Netflix Toast with sparkling cider
winter fun
Winter Events
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Please note that dates and times are subject to change. Please call ahead to confirm the events. All Ages Open Bounce At BounceU Every Monday, Tuesday & Friday 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM, $8.50/child. Children under 2 and parents are FREE with a paying child. Children must be able to walk to play on the equipment. Online RESERVATION is strongly recommended. Walk-ins will not be accepted if an event is full. Don’t forget socks! www.bounceu.com Bounce N’ Bubble - Ages 7 & Under Every Thursday From 9:30 am - 11:00 am. Our Preschool Playdate just got better - with bubbles! Bounce N’ Bubble is for ages 7 and under, and it is $9/child. Children under 2 and parents are FREE with a paying child. Children must be able to walk to play on the equipment. Online RESERVATION is strongly recommended. Walk-ins will not be accepted if an event is full. www. bounceu.com. Farmer’s Market Every Tuesday Held year-round every Tuesday at Whole Foods Market at the Fountains, Galleria Blvd. & East Roseville Parkway, 8 am–1 pm. Farmer’s Market Every Sunday Held in Granite Bay at Quarry Ponds Town Center, 5550 Douglas Blvd, open until December 2020, (closing date may change due to crop availability) 8:00 am – 12:30 pm.
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Open Play At Wacky Tacky Monday - Friday Indoor playground, admission fee: $9.00 for each child (2 years old to 17 years old), please check hours at www.wackytacky.net. Food Truck Mania Thursday, November 12th Come out to Vernon Street and enjoy the monthly mobile food event on the 2nd Thursday of each month. Mobile food trucks are coordinated by SactoMoFo and are some of the best in the local area. 5–8 pm. Mountain Mandarin Festival Friday, November 20th - Sunday, November 22nd Everything mandarin! Held at the Auburn Gold Country Fairgrounds, 1273 High Street, Auburn. For more info, visit www.mandarinfestival.com. Loomis Christmas Craft & Gift Market Sunday, November 29th, December 6th & 13th Held at the Blue Goose Event Center in Loomis from 10 am-4 pm.
Roseville Turkey Trot This is your chance to help grow Turkey Trot fun by having friends and families in other areas take part with you since we will not all be able to be in Vernon Street Town Square. You can run, walk or crawl, skip anywhere, whether it is in your neighborhood, someone else’s neighborhood, in the comforts of your home on a treadmill, or out in a city park. We have created multiple “suggested” course routes on our beautiful, wellmaintained trails. Start and finish signs will be posted along these routes starting November 1st on our website, www.roseville.ca.us. 3nd Annual Huffin’ for the Stuffin’ Turkey Trot Thanksgiving Week VIRTUAL RUN. Presented by the City of Lincoln To Celebrate Fitness and Recreation! For more details, visit www.lincolnca.gov. 6th Annual Help the Homeless Event Put On by The Tower Of Niceness Thursday, November 26th Money raised is used to buy clothing/supplies for local youth homeless shelters. The event culminates on Thanksgiving Day, where we gather to hand out food, clothing, and supplies to the local homeless community. To view their Amazon wishlist, please visit https://www.amazon.com/hz/ wishlist/ls/37LSQ15QGTV1I?ref_=wl_share. For more information about this event, please visit towerofniceness.org. Food Truck Mania Thursday, December 10th Come out to Vernon Street and enjoy the monthly mobile food event on the 2nd Thursday of each month. Mobile food trucks are coordinated by SactoMoFo and are some of the best in the local area. 5–8 pm. Roseville Tree Lighting Held in December It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The City’s Christmas Tree is officially lit on the Square. Experience an old fashion celebration and holiday cheer. The weather is even forecasted for some snow! *Christmas Tree Lighting takes place rain or shine. Visit www.roseville.ca.us for the date and time. Gingerbread House Contest Held in December Visit www.roseville.ca.us for the date and time. Tree Grove in Downtown Roseville Held in December Visit the 8th annual Tree Grove on the Square! Local businesses, organizations, and schools have the opportunity to decorate trees in the Vernon Street Square. Visit www.roseville.ca.us for the date and time. Neighborhood Santa Held in December Visit www.roseville.ca.us to view a map of Santa’s route and the days/times he will be visiting Roseville area neighborhoods. Rocklin Tree Lighting Saturday, December 5th A FREE family event celebrating our Historic Quarry District and the Holiday Season. 4000 Rocklin Rd., in Rocklin from 5–8 pm. Visit Rocklin Tree Lighting at Quarry Park on Facebook for more details. 6th Annual Toy Drive Put On By Tower Of Niceness Friday, December 25th During December, the Tower of Niceness will be collecting gifts and donations to provide children in need with presents this holiday season. Funding will also be provided to the Child Life Funding programs that support families staying in the hospital year-round. Please visit towerofniceness.org for more info on how you can help.
(I know it sounds gross, but that is the best word to describe it.) Add the vegan buttermilk you just made. 5. In another medium-sized bowl, beat with an electric mixer, the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs and vanilla. Turn the speed down and add in the banana mixture a little bit at a time. Once it is all in, add the flour mixture a little at a time until it is all in. If it is a little too thick, then add a little more milk, like 2 tbsp. If the batter is a little too runny, add two tbsp more of the gluten-free flour blend. 6. Put a little less than a fourth cup of the batter into each muffin cup. (There might be a little bit more batter left after you fill all of the muffin cups. 7. Place the muffin pan in the oven and cook for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in one of the muffins in the front comes out clean. (If you insert the toothpick or fork in one of the muffins in the front and it comes out clean, then that means all the muffins are done!) 8. Take the pan out of the oven, take the muffins out of the tins, and let the muffins cool. When they are cool, enjoy them with butter or chocolate frosting. You can store these muffins in the fridge or the freezer, be sure to thaw them before eating them. Oh, and they freeze well and thaw well with the frosting.
Milora’s Unbelievable Breakfast Banana Muffins Milora, age 12
I choose this recipe because they are unbelievable muffins. They are gluten-free, moist, soft, and fluffy. They are perfect for breakfast without the frosting. Ingredients: 1 ⅔ cups gluten-free flour (I used Trader Joe’s gluten-free flour blend) 1 tsp baking powder ½ tsp baking soda ¼ tsp salt 3 slightly brown medium bananas ⅓ cup unsweetened almond milk ¼ tsp apple cider vinegar 1 stick butter salted butter, also equivalent to eight tbsp. (Trust me, use salted butter!) ½ cup + 2 tbsp coconut sugar 2 eggs 1 tsp vanilla extract Instructions: 1. Preheat your oven to 350 F. Line a muffin pan with silicone muffin liners. If you are using paper liners, spray them with cooking spray. 2. Mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium-sized bowl. 3. In a small bowl, mix the milk and apple cider vinegar. Let that sit for seven minutes. This will make vegan buttermilk. 4. In a medium-sized bowl, mash the bananas until it is goopy.
Recipe for Sugarless Chocolate Frosting This frosting recipe will be enough for about 2 or 3, maybe 4 depending on how much you put on the muffins. You can also double or triple the recipe. Ingredients: 5 tbsp of salted or unsalted butter 1 tbsp unsweetened almond milk 2 tbsp honey (or you can sweeten to your desired sweetness. I added a little more honey) 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder Instructions: With an electric mixer, beat all ingredients. Be sure that the muffins are fully cooled before you frost a few of them. A faster way to cool the muffins is to put them in the freezer until they are no longer warm.
Kids 14 and under are encouraged to send in their own healthy recipes. Winning recipes will be featured in our next issue. Winners will be awarded a $25 gift card! DEADLINE: DECEMBER 15TH Send recipe & photo of prepared recipe to: marne@growinguproseville.com.
5. Gift others with experiences.
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winter fun
Keep it Light: 10 Ways to Simplify the Season By Janeen Lewis
I
t’s supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, but research confirms a different reality -- most Americans have elevated stress levels during the holiday season. With the challenges most have faced this year, instead of being full of good tidings and cheer, families may feel drained of peace. Even if you are staying in or uncertain about what your family festivities will look like this year, keeping things as light and easy as possible will make the end of the year more enjoyable. Here are ten tips that will simplify the season and make it merry and bright.
1. Focus on your reason for the season.
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Why are you celebrating? Is it for spiritual reasons? Maybe you want to focus on family and friends or enjoy the spirit of giving during the holidays. Keep what is most important about the holidays at the center of your celebration. Reconsider any task or commitment that takes your time, energy, enjoyment, or finances away from your reason for celebrating in the first place.
2. Set boundaries around your time.
Even during a year in which gatherings will probably be fewer, it is easy to get caught up in organizing donations or fundraisers, planning for your family celebration, or connecting virtually with clubs and associates. This year, pick one project to which you want to volunteer your time or pick a variety of simple acts of kindness you can do with your family safely. Spend time with your friends and
loved ones, but do not feel guilty if you cannot commit to every Zoom party or virtual fundraiser.
3. Let go of Martha.
The silver lining about this year is that it may force us to downsize expectations. One of the most stress-relieving things you can do at the holidays is set the bar a little lower. Martha Stewart is an elegant hostess, but you do not have to do everything the way Martha would to have a beautiful season. Embrace simpler decorations, meals, and giftgiving than you have in the past. Try quick shortcuts or holiday hacks. If you let go of expectations, you may be pleasantly surprised to find yourself content with a celebration you had not even envisioned.
4. Farm out your to-do list.
At the beginning of the season, make a to-do list of what you want to accomplish. If you find that it is too long for the amount of time you have, consider delegating some of the items. If you contribute to a Christmas club at your bank, you might even consider setting aside some of the money specifically so you can hire others to help with your holiday tasks. Have groceries delivered and buy gifts online. Grocery stores also have a plethora of pre-packaged holiday foods that make delicious sides, cutting down your time in the kitchen. Buy desserts from your local bakery. No time to clean the house? Hire a cleaning service just for the holiday season or ask for this service as a gift.
Shopping at the holidays can be timeconsuming and nerve-wracking, even if you shop online. If you don’t start early, coveted items sell out, leaving you scrambling for another gift. Ask those you give gifts to if there is an experience they would like to have. Tickets to the theatre? Family passes to an amusement park or aquarium? A relaxing day at the spa? Experiences give friends and family the opportunity to make memories and pamper themselves, unique gifts that are much-appreciated. And it also allows family and friends to enjoy their present in the future at a time when they feel comfortable visiting their favorite experience venues.
6. Set a holiday tea time.
Recent research shows that drinking green and black tea has many health benefits, including promoting relaxation. Herbal teas, while not a true tea, still help with anxiety and stress. In keeping with the holiday spirit, sip some calming peppermint tea, or try chamomile, lemon balm, or passionflower.
7. Take a hike.
One way to tell your stress to take a hike might actually be to take one yourself. When you exercise, your body releases chemicals called endorphins that trigger a happier, more relaxed mood. Aerobic exercise outdoors away from screens and to-do lists can clear your mind and help you keep what is important in perspective.
8. Reconnect with long lost friends and relatives.
Meet with an old friend you have not talked to for years, and catch up. Take some time off and visit relatives you miss seeing regularly. If you are staying home this holiday season, connect via Zoom or FaceTime. Surrounding yourself with people you enjoy is powerful when you want to combat holiday stress.
9. Do something kind for someone else.
You do not have to overcommit yourself to a charity or fundraiser to be kind. Small random acts of kindness can make someone’s day. Let someone in front of
you at the supermarket line or let someone drive their car in front of yours in the parking lot. Send an anonymous Christmas card with cash or a gift card to a college student or elderly person that you know is struggling financially or that is socially distancing. Throw change in Salvation Army buckets or donate online. Having a kind spirit chases away stress and keeps the season warm and hope-filled.
10. Celebrate memories more than material possessions.
Material gifts are nice, but most of us quickly forget gifts we have received in past years. The thing that we remember the most are the memories we make with friends and family. At the end of a challenging year, make some happy memories this holiday season and bid stress goodbye.
10 Holiday Hacks to Make the Season Bright 1. If you have an artificial tree, wrap the center pole with a strand of lights before you add the branches. This will make the tree shine brighter from the inside. 2. Use a wastebasket to hold rolls of wrapping paper. 3. Use egg cartons to store small ornaments and ornament hooks. Use wine boxes to store larger, fragile ornaments. 4. Spread a thick layer of whipped cream on a cookie sheet. Freeze it for several hours and remove it. Cut hearts out of the whipped cream with a cookie cutter and serve in hot cocoa. 5. Put a ball of sugar cookie dough between two sheets of wax paper. Roll it out between the papers, so the dough doesn’t stick to the pin. While it is still in the wax paper, put the flattened cookie dough in the refrigerator until you are ready to cut cookies out. 6. Store cookies in an airtight tin with flour tortillas between layers to keep cookies from drying out. You can also use a slice of bread. 7. If you do not want to put nail holes in your fireplace mantel, fit a tension rod in the wood frame and hang your stockings with shower hooks. You can also purchase nail-free stocking holder hooks. 8. Hang lightweight ornaments on long ribbons from your light fixture or chandelier to make an elegant holiday decoration. 9. Skip expensive candles and potpourri. Add water and natural ingredients like apples, oranges, cinnamon sticks or cloves to a Crockpot and heat. Enjoy holiday scents that aren’t overpowering. 10. To keep Christmas lights from getting tangled, wrap them around a clothes hanger or power cord holder.
Growing Up Roseville is excited to announce our Win It Wednesday promotion! Each month, we will have a giveaway from one of the local businesses featured on this page. To enter to win, simply go to www.growinguproseville.com/ giveaways. The winners will be picked randomly on the 4th Wednesday of each month. You can enter to win the first giveaway anytime between November 1st - November 25th by 12 pm, and we will email the winner later that day. Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for reminders and information on upcoming giveaways. Enter to win 2 two-hour allaccess tickets to Quarry Park Adventures! Quarry Park Adventures offers more aerial adventure attractions in one easily-accessed location than any other adventure park in the nation. Here, a single ticket provides access to six distinct aerial adventures — from zip lines to climbing walls, a via ferrata, and more! Plus, our Kidz Kove area and Paddle Boat Rentals provide fun and adventure for even the youngest of explorers. At Quarry Park Adventures, there is something for everyone to enjoy! 5373 Pacific St. Rocklin 916-824-1680, www.quarrypark.com Enter to win one FREE frozen yogurt a month for six months! Big Spoon Yogurt at The Fountains is a locally-owned family dessert shop. They have frozen yogurt, Gunther’s ice cream, root beer floats, bulk candy, waffle bowls, and over 80 toppings. Plus, they have alternative ME>carbs, gluten-free, low sugar, and Ketofriendly treats. Have fun creating your own treat with all your favorite toppings. Big Spoon, Big Smiles. 1182 Roseville Pkwy. Suite 100, Roseville 916-782-2399, www.bigspoonroseville.com
winter fun
Growing Up Roseville’s Top Park Picks to Get Outside and Play Clover Valley Park: Smaller park with easy creek access, 4239 Clover Valley Rd, Rocklin Dr. Nathan Dubin Park: Playground with a small zip line, 1971 Hamersley Ln, Lincoln Loomis Basin Community Park: 6909 King Rd, Loomis Mahany Park: Enclosed toddler area, climbing structure, and more, 1545 Pleasant Grove Blvd, Roseville 5. Maidu Park Playground: A park with a western theme, 1927 Johnson Ranch Dr, Roseville 6. McBean Memorial Park: Wooden fort playground, 65 McBean Park Dr, Lincoln 7. Olympus Park: Dinosaur theme playground, 2551 La Croix Dr, Roseville 8. Royer Park: Newer playground that is close to downtown Roseville, 190 Park Dr, Roseville 9. Whitney Community Park: Tall slides, toddler and big kid area, 1801 Whitney Ranch Pkwy, Rocklin 10. Hillsborough Park: Pirate-themed park, 1001 Hillsbourough Dr., Roseville 11. Quarry Park: Next to Quarry Park Adventures, features open play space and short nature trails, 4000 Rocklin Rd., Rocklin,(Behind the fire station, Historic City Hall, and Memorial Park)
www.growinguproseville.com
1. 2. 3. 4.
Outdoor Sensory Scavenger Hunt Explore your neighborhood or local trails and circle all the items below that you can find!
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Look for:
Listen for:
Feel:
Smell:
•
A squirrel
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Birds chirping
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Tree bark
•
Pine tree needles
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Animal tracks
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Rustling leaves
•
Wind
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Fresh air
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An animal-shaped
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Raindrops/water
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Prickly pine cone
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A blooming flower
flowing
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A smooth rock
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Green grass
•
Cedar or juniper
cloud •
A crawling ant
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A dog barking
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Moss
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A tree without
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A leaf blower or
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Dried leaves
leaves
someone raking
•
A feather
Holly berries
leaves
•
tree leaf •
Your guide to family resources in Southern Placer County!
directories
For New & Expecting Moms Breastfeeding Coalition of Placer County: Promoting and supporting breastfeeding through education, outreach, and increased services in our communities. (916) 276-8016, (916) 780-6454. California Birth Center: A full service birth facility that also offers well-woman exams, prenatal and postpartum care, natural birth support services and a community of care providers and resources. Located in Rocklin, (916) 223-7731, calbirthcenter.com.
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The Root: Education, yoga, and perinatal wellness studio designed to support families on their paths as they grow through pregnancy, postpartum, and new parenthood. www.sacroot.com, 916-455-6789 La Leche League of Roseville: Any woman who is interested in breastfeeding is welcome at all meetings, as are babies and young children. Pregnant women are strongly encouraged to attend meetings. Meetings are free. You do not have to be a member of La Leche League to participate in the meetings. For questions call, (916) 708-1263, (530) 215-6873, (916) 259-4759, www.lllnorcal.org.
Mothers & Babies First: Offers affordable breastfeeding support, breastfeeding classes, back to work and breastfeeding classes, as well as a course on the “fourth trimester.” To find out more or to register for a class, www.mothersandbabiesfirst. com mamajb@msn.com, or call 916-771-2440.
Parenting Resources A Community for Peace: A trauma-informed social justice center for victims and survivors of domestic violence, family violence. Crisis Line 916-728-7210, office line (916) 728-5613. Adventure Club: City of Roseville: Operates in multiple sites at local schools for school-age childcare and after school care for elementary school-age children in Roseville. (916) 774-5505. Affordable Counseling & Educational Services (ACES): Offers classes in Anger Management/ Domestic Violence and Parenting Programs for Men and Women. Spanish and English classes available. Please contact for more information. Individual, couples, and marriage counseling also available. Please call the office for more information and rates. (916) 630-9188.
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growing up roseville magazine
Big Brothers Big Sisters: Helping children reach their potential through one-to-one relationships with mentors that have a measurable impact on youth. www.bbbs-sac.org, (916) 646-9300. Child Advocates of Placer County: Helping high risk youth, www.casaplacer.org, 530-887-1006. Club Rocklin: Club Rocklin is a state-licensed, self-supporting before and after school recreation program, which provides supervised activities for children in grades K-6. (916) 625-5200. Compassion Planet: Our mission is to help aged-out foster youth overcome personal obstacles to achieve independence and reach their fullest potential. To find out more please go to: compassionplanet.org or call (916) 672-6599. EXCEL of Roseville: A community center for children of low-income families in the Roseville area. 916-789-7884, www.excelroseville.org. First 5 Placer: Supporting Parents and Children Ages 0 – 5 in Placer County, www.first5placer.org.
FIT4MOM Placer: The nation’s leading prenatal and postnatal fitness program, providing fitness classes and a network of moms to support every stage of motherhood. From pregnancy, through postpartum and beyond, our fitness and wellness programs help make moms strong in body, mind, and spirit. 530-863-3298, placer.fit4mom.com, shannonsmith@ fit4mom.com. Heartstrings Counseling: Provides low-cost counseling on a sliding fee scale. In Loomis, 916-6767405, www.heartstringscounseling.org.
Roseville Parks & Recreation: We are dedicated to helping you and your family find the right recreational programs. (916) 772-PLAY (7529), www. roseville.ca.us/parks/. Sierra Mental Wellness Group: Provides professional and affordable individual, couple, and family counseling, crisis services, child and adolescent programs, and mental health assessments. (916)783-5207, www. sierramentalwellness.org.
Kids First: Kids First provides parents and children with the tools they need to thrive through familycentered supports and services. Our vision is that all children live in a safe, healthy, and nurturing home. (916) 774-6802, www.kidsfirstnow.org.
Stand Up Placer: Crisis intervention & support. We provide victims of domestic violence and assault in Placer County with a safe, caring, and nurturing environment. 24-hour crisis line staffed by Crisis Counselors – 800-575-5352. 530-823-6224, www. standupplacer.org.
KidZKount: Placer Community Action Council, Inc.: Head Start, Early Head Start and Early Head Start-Child Care Partnership programs. Services to income eligible families and children from pregnancy to 4 years old. (530) 885-5437.
Teen Age Pregnancy & Parenting Program: TAPP is a free program that helps to improve the health and well-being of pregnant and parenting teens and their children. 530-889-7141 or 1-800-829-7199.
Lighthouse Counseling & Family Resource Center: A community-based nonprofit organization with a mission to strengthen families and improve the physical and emotional well-being by providing counseling, education, and easy access to community-based resources, with all services offered in both English and Spanish. 427 A St. Ste #400, Lincoln, (916) 645-3300, www.lighthousefrc.org.
Uplift Family Services: We do whatever it takes to strengthen & advocate for children, families, adults, and communities to realize their hopes for behavioral health & well being. upliftfs.org, (916) 779-2455.
Lincoln Parks & Recreation Department: Providing high-quality programs for all ages. www.lincolnca.gov/city-hall/departments-divisions/ parks-recreation, (916) 434-3220. MOMS Club of Rocklin: A non-profit group offering support for both stay at home moms, as well as moms in the workforce. Playgroups, field trips, events, support and more. www.meetup.com/MOMSClub-Rocklin Parent Project: A 10-week skill-building course for parents of strong-willed or defiant youth. There is a fee, but funds are available to cover all or part of the cost for those who cannot afford it. (916) 787-4357 Placer County Mothers of Multiples: Nonprofit organization offering support and services to all mothers of multiples. www.pcmoms.org Placer County Office of Education Child Care Resource and Referral: Helps parents find child care, provides resources and information for parents and child care providers, and assists the Placer County community in finding and supporting quality child care. The Resource and Referral also provides learning opportunities for parents, providers, and the community. (530) 745-1380. Placer County WIC: A nutrition program that helps pregnant women, new mothers, and young children under age five eat well, be active, and stay healthy. (916) 784-6447. Rocklin Parks & Recreation Department: Offers a variety of community classes and programs for children and adults. (916) 625-5200, www.rocklin. ca.us/parks. Roseville Babywearers: Come to a meet-up to get hands-on assistance with wearing your baby no matter what kind of baby carrier you use. www. rosevillebabywearers.wordpress.com Roseville Home Start: The only non-profit transitional housing program and shelter exclusively serving homeless children and their families in Placer County. (916) 782-6667 or rosevillehomestart.org
Special Needs Alta California Regional Center: Non-profit that provides services for children with special needs, (916) 978-6400. Building Life’s Moments: Our goal is to raise awareness and promote a united positive community by throwing events for the special needs population and their families. www.buildinglifesmoments.org, 916-380-9459. Down Syndrome Information Alliance: Provides support and resources to empower individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and our community. 24 hour Support Line: 916-842-7175. 916-658-1686, www.downsyndromeinfo.org. Love Olivia: Through donation campaigns, “Love, Olivia” is devoted to providing special needs children with clothing, shoes, books, and financial assistance. Additionally, we strive to provide special needs families with educational and community resources. www.loveolivia.org, (916) 752-9192. NorCal Services for Deaf & Hard of Hearing: A non-profit community-based organization serving Deaf & Hard of Hearing individuals. www. norcalcenter.org/, 916.349.7500, 916.993.3048 VP, 916.550-9355 P3. Placer County Infant Development Program: A developmental and family support program for children ages birth to three years of age with special needs. 5280 Stirling Street Granite Bay, (916) 774-2795. Ride to Walk: Ride To Walk’s mission is to enhance the lives of children and young adults with neurological disabilities by providing innovative therapeutic horseback riding activities that are recreational in nature and adapted to the individual’s needs and abilities. 1630 Hwy. 193, Lincoln, www. ridetowalk.org. WarmLine Family Resource Center: WarmLine provides free resources, support, training and consultation to families of children with special needs birth to age 26. We are staffed by parents who share the common experience of parenting a child with special needs. No referral is needed, just call us at 916-455-9500 or www.warmlinefrc.org/.
Thank you to our advertisers! Without the support of our advertisers, this magazine would not be possible. If you do business with any of our advertisers, please be sure to let them know you saw their ad in Growing Up Chico Magazine.
Preschool & Childcare Directory
Center
Ages
Hours
Curriculum
Contact
Centerpoint Christian Preschool License # 313603252
2-5 yrs
9am - 1pm Mon-Fri
We are a blended program of Learning through Play and Academics. For Pre-K, Abek Writing and Phonics is used. We also offer Summer Camps.
www.centerpointroseville.org 916-782-9443 515 Sunrise Ave Roseville
Roseville Community Preschool License # 310300569
2 yrs 9 months6 yrs
9am-2:30pm Mon-Fri
www.rosevillecp.org 916-786-9536 50 Corporation Yard Rd Roseville
Preschool Age, 0-6 yrs
Drop in from 10am-12pm, 2nd Wednesday of the month, September – May, no registration necessary
Roseville Community Preschool believes children are naturally motivated with the desire to make sense of their world, supported by the respectful and responsive caring alliance of their teachers and parents.
Utility Exploration Center Preschool Playgroup
Children in diapers are okay, lunch provided, traditional school year observed, after school program and summer programs available.
Enjoy a creative play space for you and your child. Our hands-on, age-appropriate activities provide an opportunity to socialize with new friends and have fun discovering the utilities of Roseville.
www.roseville.ca.us/explore 916-746-1550 1501 Pleasant Grove Blvd. Roseville
Growing Up Roseville’s Business Directory Thank you to our advertisers for the overwhelming support. We could not produce this magazine without you! Apple Blossom Baby: Children’s Choice Dental: DeAnna Holman, Arbonne: Denio’s: Placer Academy Charter:
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River Fox Train: Roseville Theater Arts Academy: Steve Wallen Swim School: Super Clean Xpress Carwash: Winding Creek Roseville:
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