Matthew Chipman, Lori Butterworth, Tarmo Hannula,, Yesenia Gomez-Carrillo, Jaime McFaden, Susan Tatsui-D’Arcy, Steven Weis, Sarah Nofi, Carrie Goodwin
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
Bobbi Jo Palmer
AD REPRESENTATIVES
Ann Fitts Sophie Veniel
Valerie Duque Bob Pursley advertising@growingupsc.com
CONTACT US
408.656.1519
editor@growingupsc.com
P.O. Box 3505, Santa Cruz, CA 95063
NOVEMBER 2024 | VOL. 28 NO.
by Folger
Even small changes can make a BIG difference.
Triple P is a scientifically-proven, world-renowned positive parenting program available to families in Santa Cruz County.
Triple P strategies address a wide range of parenting challenges by providing a toolbox of easy-to-use tips.
Find a full schedule of Triple P tips and classes at triplep.first5scc.org.
The Play’s The Thing
How is it the holidays already? Wasn’t it just summer? Isn’t it still summer? It sure feels like it.
And aren’t things supposed to slow down in the winter? Not here and not for families.
Thumbing through this issue there are a host of plays, musical performances and winter camps. It’s really amazing.
It starts on our cover with Santa Cruz Shakespeare moving from summer to the holidays with one of the greatest family plays ever, A Christmas Carol. Sure, everyone’s seen the movie, but there is nothing like seeing the most skilled actors in the world perform it up close and personal. It’s something that will change a kid’s life forever.
Then, of course, the Nutcracker is coming up in December. But November is jumping the gun with excellent theater. Miracle on 34th Street starts Nov. 22 at the Mountain Community Theater, which is a great mix of entertainment for kids and adults.
And for more fun, what about SpongleBob SquarePants the Musical at Cabrillo Theater showing Nov. 8-24? That is guaranteed to be a great time for everyone.
And we didn’t mention that all of these performances are reasonably priced, especially compared to Broadway or a football game. They make perfect gifts for those who want to step away from material
things or share something as a family.
All About Theatre, a beloved local troupe, has found a new home at the Colligan Theater, which has been renovated and prepared for its opening show, The Little Mermaid, debuting on Nov. 8. And they have two big productions following: Alice in Wonderland, Dec. 6-14 and Footloose Jan.17-25.
Think for a minute about how lucky and blessed we are to have this kind of quality in our small community. Many cities 10 times bigger have far less.
One of our yearly favorites is a fast and frenetic performance of The Nightmare Before Christmas every Friday and Saturday night through New Year’s at Kianti’s Restaurant downtown. It’s a spectacle every time we see it and if you haven’t seen it yet, you will be hooked. It’s the perfect excuse to catch a great meal and a fun show before you see some of the other performances around town. Thumb through this issue and catch up with these events and get your tickets before they sell out. Drop us a line with your reviews and suggestions for what you liked best and what you recommend for others to catch.
Thanks for reading Brad Kava, Editor and Publisher
Catch the Social Media Wave
Don’t miss the Growing Up in Santa Cruz videos on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. To promote your business to thousands of viewers in the area each week, email editor@growingupsc.com or call (408) 656-1519.
Brad and Parker were able to sneak away for a quick trip to Yosemite.
Scrooge is Coming to Town
Santa Cruz Shakespeare (SCS), a nationally recognized professional repertory theatre company staging imaginative productions for more than a decade, debuts a new holiday tradition for the whole family with its production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol.
Audiences can expect a theatrical and music-filled adaptation of this classic play. The production will run from November 23 through December 24, 2024, at the Veterans Memorial Hall at 846 Front St in Downtown Santa Cruz.
“It is my sincere hope that we are creating a new holiday tradition for our community with A Christmas Carol -- one you can share with your children and grandchildren,” said SCS Artistic Director, Charles Pasternak.
The show will be directed by Pasternak and star Santa Cruz favorites Mike Ryan as Scrooge and Julie James as, among many roles, the Ghost of Christmas Present. Luke Shepherd will serve as the production’s music director and sound designer for a show filled with music and carols throughout.
Ticket prices range from $20 to $60. The show is 90 minutes with no intermission. Tickets are available at www.santacruzshakespeare.org or through the seasonal Box Office, 831.460.6399, open Tuesday through Friday from noon. to 4pm
Photo credit R.R. Jones
HEALTH GUIDE
Alison K. Jackson, DDS
Children’s Dentistry
7545 Soquel Dr, Aptos
831.662.2900
santacruzkidsdentist.com
We are seeing NEW PATIENTS! Dr. Jackson provides comprehensive dentistry in a caring environment for children of all ages. We are preventive-dentistry oriented and very thorough in our evaluations and consultations. Our office provides individualized care for your child’s specific needs. We have a 24-hour emergency service available for all of our patients.
British Swim School of Santa CruzAlmaden
1261 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, inside 24 Four Fitness 408.647.1526
free Parent Drop-In sessions have given me the tools I need to get my 12-year-old off her @%# phone! It’s been a lifesaver for my family.” - Parent
City of Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation Department
323 Church Street, Santa Cruz 831.420.5270
santacruzparksandrec.com
Kickstart your New Year by getting healthy and active with Parks and Recreation!
Explore fitness classes, nature trails, sports leagues, and community events designed for all ages and abilities. Connect with nature, stay motivated, and enjoy fun activities while improving your physical and mental well-being. Start today for a healthier you!
Sarah Myatt-Paul Coastal Kinetic Children’s Physical Therapy
2121 41st Ave. Ste 303, Capitola 831.204.8204
is my child eating enough or are the eating too much and also with breastfeeding support.” – Paloma, WIC participant
Dignity Health-Dominican Hospital 1555 Soquel Drive, Santa Cruz, CA 95065 831-462-7700
DignityHealth.org/SantaCruz Expert and compassionate care for you and your family This Open Enrollment, choose access to Dignity Health. When you’re comparing health plans this season, consider the advantages of a plan that connects you to Dignity Health, the largest physician network in Santa Cruz County. Like our more than 200 primary and specialty care providers located in more than 100 locations throughout the region. All backed up by Dominican Hospital’s nationally recognized programs for heart, cancer, obstetrics and other specialties. Learn more at DignityHealth.org/ SantaCruz.
First 5 Santa Cruz County
Jim Booth Swim School
Harvey West pool in Santa Cruz and Watsonville 831.722.3500
Jimboothswimschool.com
Be a water wonder! Lessons for all ages! From our Little Otters swim class for parents and their babies to Aquaphobics, our adult beginner class, the whole family splashes together at Jim Booth Swim School. Little Otters is a gentle introduction to our 94-degree pools that will make you confident that you are guiding your infant to a happy water experience. Our lessons emphasize quality swimming in an exciting class taught by our caring, well-qualified teachers. The whole family can swim at Jim Booth Swim School!
Junebug’s Gym
3910 Portola Drive, Suite 2, Santa Cruz 831.464.BUGS (2847) junebugsgym.com
Continuing swim lessons during the winter months at British Swim School offers numerous benefits for your child. Our year-round, indoor heated pool ensures a comfortable environment for learning. Regular swimming strengthens the immune system by boosting white blood cell count, helping fend off illnesses. It reinforces muscle memory for survival skills and stroke techniques, essential for the upcoming swim season. Additionally, swimming reduces anxiety, enhances mental clarity, and releases endorphins, promoting overall well-being. Lessons also build water confidence, teaching students to overcome fears. This balanced exercise improves muscular strength, cardiovascular health, and coordination, while fostering trust and respect between instructors and students.
Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health
Lori Butterworth lori@ccamh.org
831.222.0052
ccamh.org
Caring for a child or teen struggling with their mental health can be a terrifying and isolating experience. As parents, we face unprecedented challenges navigating social media, political unrest, COVID-19, and influences beyond our control. Finding therapy can be frustrating with long waitlists and difficulty accessing affordable care tailored to your child’s unique needs. You are not alone. Affordable, evidence-based youth mental healthcare is now available at the Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health in the Soquel Village. We offer family-centered, individual, family, and group support as well as free Parent Drop-In sessions with a youth mental health expert.
coastalkinetic.com
We are now open and accepting new patients!
Pediatric physical therapy helps improve motor skills, strength, balance, and coordination of infants and children from birth. PT is an important part of the solution for many challenges including not meeting developmental milestones like rolling or crawling, or having increased body tension that impacts sleeping, eating, or playing. Don’t wait, reach out today to book a free discovery session.
Community Bridges WIC Program
South County/Watsonville
18 W. Lake Avenue Suite A 831.722.7121
North County/Santa Cruz 1105 Water Street, Santa Cruz 831.426.3911
Communitybridges.org/WIC
WIC provides nutritious foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and referrals to health care and social services for millions of families, and it plays a crucial role in improving lifetime health for women, their infants, and young children. Part of the nation’s nutrition safety net for over 45 years, WIC serves pregnant and post-partum women, infants, and children through their fifth birthday. Annually, Community Bridges WIC program serves over 500 pregnant women, 800 breastfeeding women, 1,100 infants, and 3,800 children offering a comprehensive range of services to promote healthy lifestyles both on-site and online.
“I have received so much help from WIC from nutritional classes to just being able to ask questions like
831.465.2217
First5scc.org
First 5 Santa Cruz County promotes the healthy development of children from birth to age 5. Parents and caregivers of newborns can contact First 5 to receive a free “Kit for New Parents” with parenting videos, children’s books, information on caring for babies and local resources. First 5 also offers parenting support through the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program, a world-renowned program that strengthens families by building positive relationships. To find Triple P classes or quick tips, visit triplep.first5scc.org or facebook.com/triplepscc
International Academy of Dance, home of Santa Cruz City Ballet, provides world class instruction in Classical Ballet, Tap, Contemporary, Lyrical, and Jazz. The studio is an encouraging and supportive community from ages two to eighty-two. It is our mission to inspire students of all ages to develop a lifelong love of dance. Through choreography, balance, agility, strength and flexibility, we work with each dancer to hone artistry, technique, focus and musicality. We aspire to bring joy and generate growth in every class. We can’t wait to see you in the studio! Come see us on stage at Nutcracker: Experience The Magic at Cabrillo’s Crocker Theater, December 21st & 22nd!
“I love the twirling snowflakes, waltzing flowers and the naughty gingerbread in the Santa Cruz City Ballet Nutcracker. Best of all is the joy of the performers. The venue at the Crocker Theater is the best. My family comes back to watch the performance year after year!”
JuneBug’s Gym is a place where your child can experience a fun-filled adventure in movement. Our caring staff encourages your child to build strength and confidence through movement. Through gymnastics, we help them master fundamental motor skills and nurture their self-esteem. To learn more, see our website at JuneBugsgym.com!
Monarch Pilates
4125 Portola Dr. Santa Cruz 831.475.8994
info@monarchpilates.com monarchpilates.com
Monarch Pilates is a mom-owned Pilates studio offering group reformer classes, private lessons, physical therapy. Our specialties include pregnancy & postpartum, scoliosis, pelvic health, and fitness/strength conditioning for teens, moms, and more! We aim to foster a community where all feel confident in their body through high quality instruction.
Santa Cruz Gymnastics Center, Inc.
2750 B Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz 831.462.0655 scgym.com
At Santa Cruz Gymnastics Center our mission is to build a community of people that all support each other’s growth, learning, safety and development through our love of gymnastics and fun. From preschool to competitive programs, kids will learn skills such as rolls, handstands, and cartwheels. We also focus on age-appropriate school readiness skills such as waiting in line, sharing, taking turns, and color/ number/shape recognition. We know that every child can benefit from gymnastics, physically, emotionally and cognitively so we offer something for everyone. Check out our website for more information and class registration.
Local Parents Find a Circle of Support in Aptos
The
Family Center now offers doula training program
BY THE CIRCLE CO-FOUNDERS
The journey of pregnancy, birth and parenting is humbling, joyful, vulnerable and more than a little exhausting. And while many families navigate this season of life with minimal support, there is a team in Aptos trying to change this reality.
Nestled near the beach in Seacliff, The Circle Family Center is a refuge for local families. Run by a team of mothers and birth workers, The Circle opened its doors three years ago with the vision of creating a community for families during pregnancy, birth, and the early years of parenthood. With offerings like Pre & Postnatal Yoga, Childbirth Education, Infant Enrichment, Dads Groups, and Toddler Messy Play, this space has something for everyone.
Imagine walking into a beautiful building with an ocean view. There’s a fussy baby in your arms, but she is quickly scooped up by loving hands while you take a moment to make yourself a cup of tea. Someone asks you about your day, checks in about last week’s doctor’s appointment, or follows up on the work meeting you’ve been stressed about. You are seen, remembered, and valued.
This is the energy you’ll find at The Circle. It’s a space where everyone belongs; where you are invited to come as you are and stay as long as you need.
“The Circle is my home away from home,” says local mom, Gina. “I had postpartum depression and ended up here, surrounded by caregivers and children of all different ages and places in their lives. No one here is judged. No one is questioned. No one is ever running late. We are all just doing our best with the children in our lives and this place will never make you feel like your best is less than that.”
“This place is amazing!” adds Jasmine. “It truly offers you the opportunity to find community and a village, which is so beautiful. Bring your little one and meet people who can meet you where you’re at. I have two under 2 and this place has been a godsend.”
The Circle is a nonprofit organization,
which allows them to offer scholarships and sliding scale admission to anyone who needs it. In fact, families who are enrolled in Medi-Cal have free access to all of their classes and groups. With offerings in English and Spanish, plus virtual and in-person options, they are reducing barriers to support however they can.
“I really enjoyed connecting with other dads in the men’s group,” recalls Trenton, father of two. “I was able to find a community of dads and we still go on hikes with the kids.”
This summer, The Circle expanded its reach by launching a doula training program that has prepared nearly 30 new birth & postpartum doulas to provide free and low-cost support to local families. “We believe everyone deserves individualized birth and postpartum
care,” explains co-founder Kim Guiley. “Most families who can’t afford doula support are the ones who need it the most.” By expanding the network of affordable doulas, including many who speak Spanish, The Circle hopes to improve local birth outcomes, reduce the rate of postpartum depression, and create more joy and empowerment during birth and beyond.
“Our goal is to create a safe space for families that makes their day just a little bit better,” reflects co-founder Elisa Havens-Stokes. “No matter who you are, you belong here.”
Interested in learning more about The Circle Family Center? Check out their full class schedule, sign up for one of their offerings, or make a taxdeductible donation by visiting www. thecirclefamilycenter.org.
is proud
PERFORMING ARTS
Holiday Classic Comes to Mountain Community Theater
BY MATTHEW CHIPMAN
Miracle on 34th Street, the play based on the 1947 novel by Valentine Davies is a long-standing tradition at Mountain Community Theater.
First adapted by MCT co-founders Peter Troxell and Rita Wadsworth in 1982, it is making its return for the 11th time (and first since 2018) with actors ranging from little kids to big adults, bringing the bustle of New York City at Christmas time and the courtroom action of a very peculiar state trial to Ben Lomond’s “Park Hall” this Winter.
Directed by MCT veteran Daria Troxell who has been involved with Miracle on four different occasions over the last 22 years, first starting as production manager in 2002 before acting in three others.
She has been engaged with this play, almost as long as her son Wyatt (this year’s production manager) has been alive. Troxell is excited to have been presented with the opportunity to go from acting to directing this year.
“It’s wild to be directing it because as a director you have to have the bigger scope of the play, ” Troxell said.
think about everybody’s underlying motivations in a particular scene, history, how their relationships have changed throughout the play.”
For some, managing a cast of 40 kids and adults might be challenging, but Troxell, who directs for the “Little People’s Repertory Theater” in Ben Lomond each year and oversees more than 70 children for a musical, is confident that with that experience, Miracle is a much easier process as a director.
“I do a musical with 70 kids every summer so managing 40 people (mostly adults) is a lot less work, so I’d say this is kind of a walk in the park compared to what I usually get to do,” Troxell said.
Troxell is honored to be making her mark on this MCT Christmas tradition and is excited to share this show’s magical message and themes of childhood whimsy and belief with the community.
“It feels great being a part of this tradition and going from acting to directing this text. A line in the show is ‘Faith is believing in things even when common sense tells you not to’ and that underlying current is something we
by
Troxell said.
Troxell believes this show will be a hit, with a cast made up of MCT veterans and families, featuring everything from the ecentric Kris Kringle on trial for claiming to be Santa Claus, to an elf dance number director by returning MCT veteran
“We have an amazing cast, and they are going to knock your socks off if you come
to see the production. We have amazing actors in our lead roles and an incredible supporting cast, that are going to lend their hand in telling the story,” Troxell said. Miracle on 34th Street runs at Park Hall from Friday, Nov. 22 to Sunday, Dec. 15. Friday and Saturday shows are at 7:30pm, Sunday matinees are at 2pm, and doors open at 7pm. Tickets cost 25$, 9400 Mill St, Ben Lomond.
Photo
Sarah Marsh
SpongeBob SquarePants Swims into Cabrillo
BY MATTHEW CHIPMAN
Cabrillo College’s theater department is no stranger to musical theater. Cabrillo Stage mounts a high quality professional musical every summer, with two recent highlights being 2023’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame and 2024’s In The Heights which felt like it cut out a section of New York’s Washington Heights and placed it on Cabrillo’s magnificent Crocker Theater.
This November, get your fry cook hat, spatula and get ready, because Sponegbob Squarepants, his amazing friends (and Plankton) are going to cook up some fun at Cabrillo College. With SpongeBob SquarePants the Musical. Featuring music written by David Bowie, John Legend, Plain White Tees and more. Spearheaded by Cabrillo Stage Artistic Director Andrea Hart
Taking on a musical of this scale and bringing the community into the vibrant world of Bikini Bottom, with student actors of varying skill levels, creates a coral reef of connection, ripe with fun and exciting learning experiences for everyone involved.
“When you’re working in an educational context, you have actors of all different levels. Getting everyone on the same page for an experience that can be educational, enriching and get a show up is such a challenge. Especially when it’s a musical. Everything overlaps, which I think will make the stage feel really alive and lush” says Hart, whose favorite characters in the cartoon are SpongeBob and Patrick.
From skating eels, to breathtakingly colorful costumes created by Maria Crush, a costuming magician, and a mind blowingly imaginative set, designed by creative wizard, Skip Epperson and technical director, Marcel
Tijoe, affectionately referred to as “the best kind of yes man” there is something in SpongeBob SquarePants the musical for everyone to enjoy.
“The great thing about Skip and Marcel’s collaboration is that Marcel is a very creative technical director. If you have an idea he will bring you three different options on how that idea might be done. And Skip is a great collaborative designer who digs into the script to find what the set might need. This show is like playing The Floor is Lava, and that playfulness brings in wild unexpected things the audience won’t expect,” says Hart
SpongeBob the musical also offers themes of kindness and strong friendships in the face of the constant ebb and flow of our relationships, portraying Patrick and SpongeBobs
struggles as they adapt to the challenges facing their community.
“The show has a message about being kind and how you treat your friends, there will be some audience participation along the lines of “Are you Team Patrick?” “Are you Team SpongeBob?” Patchy The Pirate might get you on your feet for a singalong. These big kids acting like little kids will be a lot of fun–Patrick is a really loveable character. Tristan Vong who plays him is super locked in, and the relationship between SpongeBob and Patrick is really adorable. It’s something I wish our society celebrated more. This really close friendship between boys is really sweet and loving” says Hart Cabrillo will be providing educational resources for kids in school to explore some of the aspects of undersea life
presented in the musical with lesson plans and a lobby display.
“We have a student matinee and lesson plans that can be sent out to go along with it. We’ll be doing a collaboration with the oceanography department on their study of plankton and beach erosion so that will all make for a very hands-on lobby display” says Hart, a director who could not be happier with the community she gets to play with every day.
SpongeBob SquarePants The Musical will run at Cabrillos Crocker theater on the main stage, Nov. 8-24 7pm on Fridays and Saturdays (except Nov 15) and 2pm on Sundays, with a special 10am student matinee Nov 15. General Tickets are $26 and can be bought at cabrillovapa.universitytickets.com/w/ event.aspx?id=1844
Register for the SCSPCA Great Animal Migrations Winter Camp today via our website! Enroll your 6 to 9-year-old for December 30th, 31st, 2024 and January 2nd, 3rd, 2025. Discover which animals migrate, hibernate or adapt during Winter while also helping to socialize and train our shelter animals each day!
Monarch Pilates
4125 Portola Dr. Santa Cruz, CA 95062 (831) 475-8994
info@monarchpilates.com monarchpilates.com
Monarch Pilates is a mom-owned Pilates studio offering group reformer classes, private lessons, physical therapy. Our specialties include pregnancy & postpartum, scoliosis, pelvic health, and fitness/strength conditioning for teens, moms, and more! We aim to foster a community where all feel
dtsc@ponohawaiiangrill.com ponohawaiiangrill.com/
info@santacruzbible.org
santacruzbible.org
Pono Hawaiian Grill
Bible Church
Junebug’s Gym
3910 Portola Drive, Suite 2, Santa Cruz
831.464.BUGS (2847)
junebugsgym.com
Give a gift of a Junebug’s gym Class! JuneBug’s Gym is a place where your child can experience a fun-filled adventure in movement. Our caring staff encourages your child to build strength and confidence through movement. Through gymnastics, we help them master fundamental
All About Theatre
101 River Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 831-345-6340
Come celebrate in the joys of musical theater and performing arts this holiday season. All About Theatre is offering 3 amazing musicals at the Colligan Theater; Disney’s Little Mermaid, Alice in Wonderland & Footloose. From live orchestras to delicious treats there is something for everyone. Visit us online at www.allabouttheatre.org
santacruzparksandrec.com
Give the gift of recreation! Gift cards available at SantaCruzParksandrec.com Kickstart your New Year by getting healthy and active with Parks and Recreation! Explore fitness classes, nature trails, sports leagues, and community events designed for all ages and abilities. Connect with nature, stay motivated, and enjoy fun activities while improving your physical and mental well-being. Start today for a healthier you!
British Swim School of Santa Cruz - Almaden
1261 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, inside 24 Four Fitness 408.647.1526
This holiday season, give the gift of water safety! British Swim School of Santa Cruz offers small group classes for beginners and advanced swimmers at 24 Hour Fitness. Our unique year-round water survival and learn-to-swim program takes place in an indoor heated pool, led by highly trained instructors. Join the fun!
Strategies to Build Resilience and Emotional Strength
BY LORI BUTTERWORTH, PSYD, MED, MA
According to Webster’s, resilience is the capacity to withstand or to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness. Here are strategies parents can use that are based on three well-researched, go-to resources for parents: SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) developed by Eli Leibowitz from Yale; Triple P (Positive Parenting Program) developed by Matt Sanders at the University of Queensland in Australia; and The Anxious Generation, NYU professor Jonathan Haight’s last, well-researched bestseller.
RESIST THE URGE TO FIX
Validate your child’s emotions but resist the urge to solve every problem for them. Our parental instincts are to protect our kids and keep them from harm. But often trying to fix our child’s problems for them sends the message that they’re not capable of fixing things themselves.
Try saying things like, “I can see you’re upset, and that’s okay,” to show you understand their distress. Then, offer support without taking over, saying, “I’m here if you need help, but I know you can handle this.” The SPACE program helps parents of anxious children learn to avoid doing things to accommodate kids’ fears
while unintentionally fueling their anxiety.
For example, parents of kids who are afraid to sleep alone will try to avoid their child’s discomfort by sleeping with them well into adolescence. Every night the message “you’re too weak and afraid to sleep on your own” gets reinforced.
In short, jumping in to keep our kids from experiencing pain can undermine their ability to build self-confidence and resilience.
MODEL VALUES-DRIVEN CHOICES
I use a fun game in therapy to help kids identify what is important to them and what is not. We take about 50 cards with values-based words: Independence, Honesty, Patience, Courage, etc. We sort the cards by “Most Important,” “Somewhat Important,” and “Not Important.”
Then, we talk about each selection in the “Most Important” pile and sort the cards again. By the end of the game, the child has narrowed it down to the top five things that matter most to them. This sparks conversations about why knowing what is most important helps us set goals aligned with who we are.
I encourage parents to do this with their kids and talk about the values they share and each family member’s unique values. As parents, knowing our values allows us to demonstrate how to act in alignment with those values, even when facing difficult challenges.
For example, if your family values “Kindness,” you can show your child how to remain kind and compassionate, even in stressful situations. If you, as a parent,
value “Respect,” you can demonstrate self-respect and show respect to others even amid conflict.
This helps children understand that living according to our values is more important than trying to avoid discomfort. It teaches resilience by showing that they can continue to pursue meaningful actions despite difficult emotions.
TURN CHALLENGES INTO LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
When your child encounters a manageable challenge, welcome it. Without taking over, allow your child to face age-appropriate challenges that might involve failure.
Gradual exposure to difficult situations helps kids build confidence and learn to manage adversity. Find opportunities for your child to learn from setbacks. Again, validate your child’s feelings and then encourage them to think about what they can learn from a situation. Ask questions like, “What can you do differently next time?” to help them develop problem-solving skills and resilience. Share your own experiences with failure and how you overcame it. Help your child see setbacks as temporary and part of growth.
BE A HELICOPTER-PARENT
Yes, you heard that correctly. It’s time for parents to become more helicopter and hover more when it comes to screen time and social media.
And, it’s time to back off and stop hovering in the real world. Jonathan Haight describes the disastrous cultural shift from play-based childhood to phone-based childhood and how as parents, we’ve become irrationally fearful of stranger danger in the real world while handing our kids a device that opens them up to predators worldwide.
I’ve heard people say that the genie is out of the bottle and there’s nothing parents can do about kids and social media. I disagree. There’s a lot we can do.
Let’s start by considering the primary function of social media. For most kids, social media is a way to connect with friends, and social connection is a healthy, necessary developmental activity. Taking away your child’s phone while “everyone else” has one, isn’t the answer. According to Haight, we must replace phone time with playtime. Haight suggests four new norms for groups of parents to agree to: 1) No smartphones before high school; 2) No social media before age 16; 3) No phones in schools; and 4) More independent play.
LET THE CHILDREN PLAY
Back in the 1970s, I was a kid running around with my friends until dark
without a parent or phone in sight. The crime rate was higher than it is today. But today, parents are irrationally hovering over their kids in the real world and throwing up their hands when it comes to the digital world.
We need to switch on the parental hover button when it comes to social media and switch it off in the real world. I tell parents, that instead of “play dates” and scheduled activities every day after school, give kids time to run around the neighborhood playing freely.
It is time for us to let go and let grow. To build resilience in children, parents should validate emotions without fixing problems, allowing kids to face challenges and build confidence.
Modeling values-driven choices and encouraging learning from setbacks helps children align actions with what matters most to them. Parents should actively monitor and limit screen time and replace it with independent, unstructured play. This balanced approach, based on SPACE, Triple P, and “The Anxious Generation,” builds resilience by teaching kids to manage difficulties and pursue meaningful goals despite challenges.
Dr. Lori Butterworth is the founder of the Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health and Jacob’s Heart Children’s Cancer Support Services. For more information about mental health support for your child and family, contact Lori at 831.222.0052 or visit CCAMH.org. The Center offers evidence-based youth mental health care and free resources for parents.
Starring Mike Ryan as Scrooge
Discover your well power.
This Open Enrollment, choose access to Dignity Health.
When you’re comparing health plans this season, consider the advantages of a plan that connects you to Dignity Health, the largest physician network in Santa Cruz County. Like our more than 200 primary and specialty care providers located in more than 100 locations throughout the region. All backed up by Dominican Hospital’s nationally recognized programs for heart, cancer, obstetrics and other specialties. Learn more at DignityHealth.org/SantaCruz.
Meaningful Alternatives to Holiday Checks and Cash
Here are some gift ideas for those hard-to-shop-for family and friends
Gifts of money are often received (and spent) with joy and appreciation that lasts about as long as it takes to get to the mall or log onto Amazon. But there are better ways to give that can provide valuable lessons about financial responsibility, stability, and charity—gifts that may improve your loved one’s quality of life for years to come.
Here are some alternative ideas to add meaning to your holiday gift-giving:
EXPERIENCE GIFTS
Experiences are thoughtful gifts that can last a lifetime. Whether it’s a concert, theater performance, or sporting event, shared experiences create lasting memories.
Enrolling your loved one in a cooking class, art workshop, or sports clinic shows support for their interests and encourages skill development. A membership to a zoo, museum, or science center provides endless exploration and learning opportunities throughout the year.
PERSONALIZED BOOKS OR SUBSCRIPTIONS
A personalized book featuring the child as the main character can be a delightful keepsake, often passed down through generations. Subscription services are another great option.
A monthly book subscription encourages a love for reading and offers new adventures each month. You can also explore craft, science, or cooking subscription boxes to keep the excitement alive well beyond the holidays.
Savings Account Contributions.
Contributing to a savings account helps children develop strong savings habits. Partner with a local credit union to open a youth savings account or contribute to an existing one. This teaches the value of saving and allows them to see their money grow over time.
CONTRIBUTING TO A 529 PLAN OR COVERDELL ESA
These tax-free accounts can be used for
education expenses, including vocational and graduate school. Coverdell ESAs also cover elementary and secondary education costs.
To ensure the funds are used as intended (and to avoid financial aid complications), consider opening the account in your name with the recipient as the beneficiary. For more details, contact a financial advisor.
VOLUNTEER TOGETHER OR DONATE IN THEIR NAME
For someone who has everything, donating on their behalf to a favorite charity can bring deeper meaning to the
“season of giving.” Alternatively, plan a family volunteering day to teach the importance of giving back.
This powerful experience might include serving at a food bank or animal shelter, teaching kids about community and helping those in need. Charity runs or walks also promote family bonding while supporting a cause that resonates with you.
DIY GIFT KITS
Encourage creativity with do-it-yourself gift kits tailored to a child’s interests, like a craft or baking kit. Include materials for a fun DIY project or non-perishable
ingredients for a favorite recipe, along with a handwritten note or family recipe card. By choosing meaningful alternatives, you can create lasting memories and teach valuable lessons that will stay with children into adulthood.
With the support of your local credit union, you can explore options that enrich the holiday season and nurture a brighter financial future for the next generation. Happy holidays!
Consult your investment advisor or tax professional regarding contribution limits and tax implications for education savings plans.
Annual Celebration Comes to Watsonville
BY TARMO HANNULA
The Watsonville Film Festival (WFF) will present the 7th Annual Día de Muertos event at the downtown Watsonville Plaza Nov. 1, from 4-9pm. Keeping with tradition, the free event will feature film, music, dance and a large collection of community altars.
“New this year are the screening of the Mexican animated movie The Book of Life, voted by the community, and the world premiere of the short film Eternidad by director Ignacio Muñoz, a Watsonville Film Festival Cine Se Puede grantee,” said Consuelo Alba, Co-Founder & Executive Director of the WFF.
Dr. Faris Sabbah, County Superintendent of Schools, said “Día de Muertos is an important cultural tradition that honors and celebrates those who have passed on, and reminds us that death is a natural part of the human experience. We are thrilled to work with the Watsonville Film Festival to continue this longstanding community celebration, and invite community members of all ages to join us in the Watsonville Plaza on November 1st.”
WFF is partnering with Santa Cruz County Office of Education, Hospice of Santa Cruz County and Watsonville Parks and Community Services to present the family event at the Plaza. Local non-profit Arte del Corazón will host a Mercado de Muertos, across the street, at the Romo Park, where the community can purchase unique works made by local artists.
Starting at 3:30pm, the White Hawk Aztec Dancers will do a blessing of the altars. Then, at 4pm, families will be treated to performances by Folklorico Ollin de Alianza, El Sistema, Raíces Mestizas, Mariachi Ilusión, Estrellas de Esperanza and youth band Revolución.
“Everyone is invited to dress like fancy skeletons and participate in the Catrina and Catrin Catwalk,” Alba said. The Book of Life (El Libro de la Vida) produced by iconic Mexican filmmaker Guillermo del Toro will screen in Spanish with English subtitles at 7pm. WFF will also premiere the short silent film Eternidad, inspired by Day of the Dead, and directed by WFF Cine Se Puede grantee Ignacio Muñoz. Muñoz. The director, his cast and crew will be in attendance. People are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets and warm clothes.
“Families love coming to the Plaza to watch movies under the stars and observe this heartfelt tradition that honors ancestors and celebrates the connection between the living and the dead,” Alba said. “Seeing our stories
and traditions represented in film affirms our identity and promotes pride.”
Families will also be able to decorate sugar skulls, make luminarias, write letters to their loved ones, participate in colorful mosaic making and have their faces painted, thanks to the Watsonville High School Hope Club, Pajaro Valley Arts, Raíces y Cariño, Watsonville Brillante and Hospice of
Santa Cruz County.
“I believe that art has the unique power to illuminate the human experience and build connections, ,” says Cathy Conway, CEO of Hospice of Santa Cruz County. “Sponsoring the WFF’s Día de Muertos event not only allows us to celebrate the beauty of life and the depth of our shared stories but also strengthens our connection to serving our vibrant and diverse Latino community.”
Nick Calubaquib, Director of Watsonville Parks and Community Services further added, “Watsonville Parks and Community Services is so excited to partner again with the Watsonville Film Festival to bring this wonderful event to our downtown. A big thank you to the staff, volunteers and sponsors that make this possible.” The program is readily available at watsonvillefilmfest.org/dia-de-muertos.
Mi Casa Es Tu Casa Exhibit Opens
BY TARMO HANNULA
Pajaro Valley Arts has opened their current and annual exhibit, “Mi Casa es Tu Casa” at their Sudden Street gallery.
The show explores the connection between the living and those who have passed.
The theme this year is “In the Arms of Our Ancestors.” As a centerpiece for the show is the jaguar, a symbol held high across Mesoamerican cultures.
The exhibit includes the ideas and collaboration of several area schools where students were invited to create their own artwork and and words for the show that includes 17 altars. Also in the exhibit are various installations, paintings, sculpture, poems, photos and more.
“In Mexican tradition, giant puppets, known as Mojigangas, bring vibrancy and life to the celebrations,” said Wendy Aikin, lead curator. “It is the spirit that inspired the creation of our ‘cat-like’ interpretation of jaguar. He stands as a
guardian at the threshold of a spiritual realm, cradling an altar honoring our loved ones. The altar serves as a tribute to our ancestors, a place where the living can connect with the spirit world through the symbolic offerings placed upon it.”
“The show turned out really well,” Aikin said. “It’s a broad representation of our community, with individual families, schools, and community groups coming together to create this amazing show. It is really an important event. This year we’re going to have the opening reception in the parking lot with live performances, food trucks and more space to gather. It will be a lot of fun.”
The free reception for all ages will take place Nov. 3 from 2-4 p.m. Performances are schedules for the White Hawk Dancers, Anthony Sanchez and the Youth Music Band and Estrella de Esperanza.
The gallery is at 37 Sudden St. and the show runs through Dec. 1.
Tips for a Winning College Application
BY SUSAN TATSUI-D’ARCY
College-bound seniors are off to a busy season as they juggle their 12th-grade classes and between 7-20 college applications. While this may seem overwhelming while juggling sports and extracurricular activities, take the time to lay out your priorities. Here are 6 tips to consider when organizing your college applications:
#1: CHOOSE COLLEGES BASED ON THE MAJORS OFFERED
Most students make the mistake of choosing colleges based on their rankings or locations. Instead, research the majors you’re considering and choose the colleges that have programs that align with your interests. Check out their required courses and electives. You’ll be surprised to see the difference in courses offered at different colleges.
#2: WHEN TO SUBMIT SAT/ACT SCORES IF THEY’RE “TEST OPTIONAL”
Colleges know that students who are good test takers will find ways to take and submit the SAT or ACT. Some students travel hundreds of miles to take them. If your test scores are stronger than your GPA, submit them. If they’re weaker than your GPA, don’t submit them if test scores are optional. Some colleges are Test Blind, which means
that they won’t consider test scores even if you submit them. The University of California (UCs) and California State University (CSUs) are test blind.
#3: HOW TO WRITE INTRIGUING ESSAYS AND PERSONAL STATEMENTS
When reading essays, admissions officers hope to learn something about you isn’t included in the application. Tell stories that illustrate your personality and your passions. Don’t write about throwing that winning touchdown because thousands of other students will be writing similar stories. Instead tell them what makes you unique. Open with a hook that intrigues them so they’ll see what you’ll bring to their incoming class.
#4: HOW TO ASK FOR STRONG LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION
Teachers write hundreds of letters of recommendation every fall and most use a few templates to streamline the process. By organizing a comprehensive resume with photos listing your projects, volunteer work, employment, and extracurricular activities, you’re giving them the insight and incentive to write a descriptive and positive recommendation. Include a cover letter to thank them for something valuable
they’ve taught you, tell them something unique about yourself (project, business, extracurriculars), and give them a glimpse into what you hope to study in college.
#5: WHEN TO APPLY EARLY DECISION, EARLY ACTION, AND REGULAR ADMISSION
While your odds of getting in are better if you apply Early Decision (ED) or Early Action (EA), only do so if your grades, SAT/ACT scores, and your projects are good. If you’re still trying to boost your GPA during the fall semester, apply regular decision so your extra weighted grade will be calculated in the overall GPA. If you’re hoping for better scores on a future SAT date, it’s better to wait for regular admission dates. However, if your GPA and test scores are solid, and your project is complete, then apply early and hear from the colleges by mid December. Remember ED decisions usually don’t include the best scholarships because colleges know you’re going to matriculate and they save their big scholarship offers to entice other students to enroll.
#6: HOW TO ORGANIZE APPLICATIONS SO YOU DON’T MISS DEADLINES
To reduce stress, enter each application’s deadline in a planner or digital calendar. Then starting with your first deadline,
write first drafts of the essays and resumes, create portfolios for art and music applications, and collect other documentation. Enter each task into your planner by blocking off time to complete each item. Continue to add a new college every week. You’ll be juggling many colleges at various completion stages throughout the application season. Minimize extracurricular activities so you have time to manage all of your applications while maintaining good standing in your classes. Colleges expect students to do their own work – so as tempting as it may be – parents, don’t write your kids’ essays, set up their interviews, or complete their applications. This is a good opportunity for your child to take responsibility for organizing each application and meeting all deadlines. Your child will mature and transform into a confident young adult during this senior year. Sit back, watch and marvel.
Susan Tatsui-D’Arcy is the founder of Merit Academy (one-on-one classes) and Merit Educational Consultants (college and educational advisory). She has written books on projects, free child care, education, and parenting. Susan hosts TEDxMeritAcademy for students to present their innovative projects and solutions. meritworld.com
Embracing the Holidays
BY YESENIA GOMEZ-CARRILLO
I love this time of year, filled with joy, cherished traditions, gratitude - and let’s not forget those wonderfully cozy moments. The holidays often encourage us to reflect on and appreciate what we have, especially our loved ones. However, they can also be challenging for families, bringing stress along with the celebrations.
I’ve come to realize that it’s perfectly okay to feel both things at once. I love family gatherings, yet I also find myself feeling stressed at times. Instead of simply celebrating, the holidays can sometimes feel like something we need to survive. This season, I want to remind myself to be present, savor the small moments, and truly enjoy my family. Who’s joining me?
This monthly column provides tips for anyone who is helping raise children, based on the world-renowned Triple P – Positive Parenting Program, available to families in Santa Cruz County. If you have a question or idea for a future column, email me at triplep@first5scc.org.
Dear Yesenia,
We’re visiting my partner’s family for about a week over the holidays, which involves traveling with two young children (3, 6). Since they live far away, we only get to see them once a year during the holidays. We’ll be staying at my partner’s parents’ house, and my kids
often feel overwhelmed in unfamiliar places and around “new” people. I also worry about myself. I often receive unwanted parenting advice, which adds to my stress and makes it hard for me to feel like myself while caring for my kids. Do you have any tips for me? ~ Ava
Dear Ava,
Great question! The holidays can be an exciting AND stressful time for many children and adults. Hectic schedules, endless shopping, high expectations, tight budgets, family conflict or different beliefs about holiday celebrations can all create enormous pressure on parents.
Holidays can be hard for children, too, if they get bored, tired, hungry, overstimulated or overwhelmed. Children often communicate their needs and feelings through behaviors such as whining, complaining, tantrums and refusing to follow directions — adding to parents’ stress. Here are a few tips to try:
Maintain your children’s daily routines. The predictability of daily routines helps children feel secure and can prevent meltdowns caused by being tired, hungry, over-stimulated or overwhelmed.
Ask family members about their plans for mealtimes, visits, exchanging gifts or other holiday activities, and let them know about your children’s schedules. This allows you to discuss whether any plans can be modified so your
children can participate, or helps family members understand that your children may have to follow a different schedule than the adults.
Talk to your children about your holiday plans. Talk about your travel plans, which relatives they will see, as well as any important family, cultural or religious traditions.
Talk about what it will be like to stay at their grandparents’ house – what room they’ll sleep in, any rules they’ll have to follow and how it will be different from being at home. Talking with children not only increases their vocabulary and thinking skills, but also gives them a “mental picture” of what to expect, which helps prepare them to face unfamiliar situations.
Have simple, engaging activities ready for your children. This helps prevent meltdowns caused by boredom or restlessness. Take healthy snacks, some books and a few of their favorite toys on your trip. Play guessing games, make up stories or sing along to your favorite songs.
And let’s face it – letting children have a modest amount of age-appropriate screen time (TV, movies, video games, computer) can give both children and parents a much-needed break after constant activities and socializing. Encourage the behavior you want to see more of. Give your children descriptive praise when they are being kind, helping
others, following family rules or expressing their feelings appropriately. This shows them you appreciate their efforts and encourages them to keep it up.
Take time for yourself. Being a parent during the holidays while surrounded by advice-giving relatives and not being in your own space can be incredibly stressful. It’s important to find ways to relieve stress before it affects your ability to enjoy the holidays with your family.
If possible, take some time for yourself, and do something you enjoy, such as going for a walk, having a solo coffee trip, listening to music, reading a book or sitting in a quiet room by yourself.
Final thoughts: Holidays provide special opportunities to enjoy quality family time, but they can also add stress and pressure for many families. Try a few of these positive parenting strategies to help you and your family not just survive, but thrive, during this holiday season.
Yesenia Gomez-Carrillo is the mother of a 2-year-old daughter and the Triple P Program Manager for First 5 Santa Cruz County. Scientifically proven, Triple P is made available locally by First 5, the Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency, and the Santa Cruz County Human Services Department. To find a Triple P parenting class or practitioner, visit triplep.first5scc.org, facebook.com/ triplepscc, or contact First 5 Santa Cruz County at 465.2217 or triplep@first5scc.org.
POSITIVE DISCIPLINE PARENTING
Deepening Unique Relationships with Your Children
BY STEVEN WEIS AND SARAH NOFI CERTIFIED POSITIVE DISCIPLINE EDUCATORS
“Our jobs, other responsibilities, and numerous distractions, make it difficult to devote individual time to each of our children. These competing demands on our time, energy, and attention don’t have to deprive us, though, of the quality one-on-one time—the special time—we can share with them.
A SPECIAL PARENTING TOOL
Special time is all about deepening the unique relationship you have with your child. As a positive Discipline parenting tool, special time complements other Positive Discipline tools (e.g., discovering the beliefs behind the behaviors, connection before correction, curiosity questions, and encouragement) and lets you get to know and encourage your children in very personal and personalized ways.
FROM THEORY TO PRACTICE
Positive Discipline is a relationship-based approach to parenting and guiding children, and is rooted in the theories of Alfred Adler and Rudolph Dreikurs. Adler asserted that all human behavior stems from a fundamental psychosocial need for belonging and significance, and Dreikurs believed that misbehavior stems from the discouragement that children experience when those needs go unmet.
Special time helps meet children’s psychosocial needs as it strengthens parentchild bonds through meaningful and enjoyable interactions—the kind that make for treasured memories. It also provides a space for children to share intimate thoughts and feelings. Further, special time is sometimes just what a discouraged child needs to feel encouraged, especially if that child has exhibited challenging behavior. It helps everyone feel better and thus do better.
WHAT SPECIAL TIME IS AND ISN’T Special time is different from other time spent with a child. It is not have-to time (e.g., taking a child to school or dressing a child), nor is it casual time (e.g., working while your child is in the room or supervising them while they play). It is regularly scheduled (although it can be impromptu), has ideally been planned with the child, involves the child in engaging activities, and entails an explicit goal of being special.
CONSIDER THE “THREE ‘A’S” OF SPECIAL TIME: ATTITUDE, ATTENTION, AND ALONE.
Attitude means obviously demonstrating how much a child is valued and appreciated and how happy you are to be spending your time with them. Attention is being fully present to listen to and connect with the child, which, in part means disconnecting from distractive devices (such as cell phones). Alone is all about preventing interruptions from or interactions with others so that you and your child can have one-on-one time together.
DEVELOPMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS
Special time is a developmentally appropriate tool that takes ages and stages into account.
Children 0-2 don’t understand the concept
of it and thus aren’t able to help plan it, but they still require ample love, attention, and what are known as “serve and return” interactions.
For children ages 2-6, special time can be an everyday ritual that lasts at least 10 minutes. A parent (or other adult family member) can read a book to a child (a good time to do so is while others are cleaning up after dinner or before the child’s bedtime).
For children ages 7-12, special time can be weekly and last for at least 30 minutes. You can take a child out for ice cream after running errands with them, make cookies together, or go on a bike ride.
Children 13 years and up may act like they’re too old for special time and may often prefer to hang out with friends, but they need your undivided attention as much as ever. While Special time with them may only be a monthly occurrence, try to dedicate at least an hour or two doing things with them you know they enjoy (e.g., taking them out to eat, to a movie, or to a ballgame). Be prepared to suggest activities if they don’t.
For all ages of children, remember to remain flexible, appeal to their unique interests, preferences, and personalities, and enlist their ideas.
FINAL GUIDELINES
While special time is often initiated by adults, the activities involved should be heavily driven by the child. Therefore, put your child in charge, and resist the temptation to direct the play/activity and/or teach the child how to engage. Letting them decide things helps to develop their communication, social-emotional, and leadership skills while promoting their buy-in and continued interest.
Finally, remember that even though special time might just feel like fun and games (which of course it often is), the ultimate goal is connection. As such, remain attune to your child and make a concerted effort to really listen to them. Children who long for individual attention may see special time as an opportunity to reveal themselves in very deep and emotional ways and share what is most important to them. The insights you may gain may prove both informative and invaluable.
CONCLUSION
Special time is a great way to show your children love and demonstrate your intention to build a trusting relationship with them. Because every child and every relationship is unique, you may discover new things not only about your child but about yourself. Share all the quality time you can with your children. Your children will cherish those memories.
Courtney Age 7
Aroh Age 7
Elaina Age 13
Eleanor Age 9
Emerie Age 11, Layla Age 6
Emi Age 5
Gia Age 5
Gwen Age 4
Harshita and Ella
Quil Age 8
Jayce Age 8 and Ashtyn Age 6
Jude Age 10
Kian Age 7
Lana Age 8
Bailey Age 7
Bella Age 10
Luke Age 5 Maddie Age 6
Makenna Age 6
Milo Age 4
Nina Age 9
Nova Age 5
Pearl Age 9
Sadie Age 6
Scarlett Age 5
Scarlett Age 5
Silas Age 4
Skylar Age 8
Stella Age 6
Tommy Age 11
Lily Age 4
Lucia Age 5
FRI 1
First Fridays Santa Cruz 5-8pm On the first Friday evening of every month, Santa Cruz galleries, shops, and cultural venues open their doors to showcase the works of Santa Cruz County artists. With a block party-like vibe, the multi-venue event provides an opportunity to discover local creative talent in a fun and festive setting. firstfridaysantacruz.com/event
First Friday Boulder Creek 5-8pm
Enjoy a free monthly mountain street fair in the name of creation and community. There will be local art, music and food lining the sidewalks of downtown Boulder Creek. firstfridaybouldercreek.org
SAT 2
Hot Rods at the Beach 8am-5pm
Check out hundreds of sweet hot rods, street rods, vintage, muscle, custom, and classic cars in the Boardwalk Parking Lot. Free admission hotrodsatthebeach.com
Tree Film 4-9pm Giants Rising - The Secrets & Superpowers of The Redwoods is a new film that tells the story of the amazing life of redwoods through history, science and art. This will be a family friendly community building event provided by the Forest Lakes Firewise & Safety Association at Scott Valley Community Theater. givebutter.com/ giantsrising
NOV 3-DEC 1
Mi Casa es Tu Casa Display Mi Casa es Tu Casa is an annual Pajaro Valley Arts exhibit inspired by the traditional holiday of Día de Los Muertos/Day of the Dead celebrated in Mexico and beyond through altars to remember and honor those who have passed. The opening reception will be held Nov.3 from 1-3pm. The exhibit will be on display until Dec 1. The Gallery hours on Sudden Street are Wednesday-Sunday from 11am to 4pm.
TUES 5
Gateway Tour 9-11am Visit the school on one of the monthly Tuesday tours and see why Gateway was voted Best Elementary and Best Middle School in Santa Cruz. Hang with our kindergarteners on Kindy Island, see what’s growing in the Life Lab outdoor classroom, join the middle schoolers for a science experiment, and see first hand the unique benefits of a K - 8 education. gatewaysc.org
NOV 8-16
Little Mermaid Directed by Miakela Reed, musically directed by Ruby Cook Fernandes and choreographed by Whitney James-Heskett, this show will have you singing and dancing all the way home. Features a live orchestra. colligantheater.org
GUiSC will attempt to update the calendar listings as needed; however, it is the responsibility of the organization listed to provide updated information. GUiSC assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Readers are encouraged to check the accuracy of the information provided. Events that are free or cost less than $10 can be submitted for inclusion in the calendar. GUiSC does not guarantee that a submitted event will automatically be included. Preference is given for events of interest to children and/or parents. Submit entries at growingupsc.com/events/ community/add. Calendar entries must be received by the 15th of the month prior to the month of the event. To find out more about promoting your event further or including a paid event, email advertising@growingupsc.com.
SAT9
Second Saturday on the Farm 11am3pm The Agricultural History Project’s 2nd Saturday events are like taking a step back in time. Grab your cowboy hat and put on your boots and come and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon on the farm! In addition to Summer Fun special activities, you’ll be able to milk a “cow”, drive-a-tractor, and enjoy crafts, hayrides, puppet show, antique engines and museum exhibits. Bring your lunch and enjoy a picnic. aghistoryproject. org/2nd-saturday-on-the-farm
Swing Dancing 2-5:30pm You will find music, friends, and food while you improve your dancing digs. All levels, and various styles plus a social dance with great ambiance are welcome! Go Join the fun on the Second Saturday evening of each month at the Santa Cruz Wharf stage. cityofsantacruz.com/
Fall Bake-Off & Festival noon-4pm enjoy music, pumpkins, arts and crafts, games and more! Admission is free. scottsvalley.gov/648/Fall-Bake-Off-Festival
SUN 10
Antiques Faire 8am-6pm The Santa Cruz Antique Faire is on the 2nd Sunday of every month. Vendors offer an eclectic blend of antiques and unique items, vintage clothing, collectibles and more. Visit the Antique Faire on Lincoln Street between Pacific and Cedar.
Artisan Faire noon-4pm Head to Abbott Square every second Sunday of the month for free live music while you browse handmade jewelry, soap, clothing, and much more! There is always something at these events that has your name on it! abbottsquaremarket.com/events
WED 13
Antiques Faire 6-8pm Prepare to see a live look at the bottom of the ocean using state-of-the-art equipment, while connect-
ing with the researchers who are pioneering the field of deep-sea exploration at the Museum on Natural History. Cost $9. santacruzmuseum.org/11-13-naturalistnight-exploring-the-abyss-with-the-e-vnautilus.
FRI-SAT 15-16
Goat Hill Antique Festival 10am-4pm Find items for your home, jewelry, clothing and collectibles at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds in Watsonville. With more than 100 vendors, you can find gardens, rusty, French, farmhouses, industrial and more. There are food and beverages sold onsite. goathillfair.com
SAT 16
La Selva Beach Holiday Faire 10am4pm Over 50 arts and crafts vendors will be selling handcrafted jewelry, woodworks, bags, ceramics, specialty foods, candles, soaps, books and more. The Friends of the La Selva Library host their used book sale.
Mountainfilm Tour 7-10pm
Mountainfilm on Tour brings a selection of culturally rich, adventure-packed and incredibly inspiring documentary films curated from the Mountainfilm festival in Colorado. This year’s event will be screening the Medley Playlist – a little bit of everything from Mountainfilm. The event supports Second Harvest Food Bank. riotheatre.com/ events-2/2024/11/16/mountainfilm
Castro Adobe Open House 10:303:30pm Learn about the contributions of the Indigenous people as skilled laborers for the Castros on Rancho San Andre. santacruzstateparks.as.me/ CastroAdobeOpenHouse
SUN 17
Downtown Makers Market 10am-5pm
Visit the Downtown Santa Cruz Makers Market featuring 40+ local makers & artists every third Sunday of the month on the 1100 block of Pacific Ave. between Cathcart and Lincoln streets. scmmakersmarket.com
FRI 22
Holiday Tree Lighting 5-6pm Light up the holiday season with music and cheer at the Plaza in Downtown Watsonville watsonville.gov/1879/Holiday-Lights-inthe-Plaza
NOV
23-DEC 24
A Christmas Carol Santa Cruz Shakespeare presents a world premiere adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, by Artistic Director Charles Pasternak. This Carol will hew closely to Dickens’ original text while embracing the exciting, inspiring spirit that SCS is known for. Featuring Mike Ryan as Scrooge, as well as local favorite Julie James, the production will take place at the historic Santa Cruz County Veteran’s Memorial Building. santacruzshakespeare.org/season-2024
NOV
29-DEC 23
Reindeer Round-Up Pick up a map at the Downtown Santa Cruz Information Kiosk, located at 1130 Pacific Avenue K2, the corner of Pacific and Soquel Avenues or at Pacific Cookie Company to find participating businesses, and then visit them all to search for the beautiful hidden reindeer. downtownsantacruz.com/do/ reindeer-round-up-2
SAT 30
Winter Festival 2-7pm Head to Boulder Creek for music, tree lighting, Santa’s arrival, a food court, vendors and more! This event is free to attend and has tickets available for certain activities like a petting zoo, photos with Santa, DIY crafts and more. Details: bcba.net
Surfing With Santa noon-3pm Take the whole family to welcome Santa to the
We recommend scheduling a first appointment around your child’s first birthday.
831 - 662 - 2900 7545 Soquel Dr. Aptos www.santacruzkidsdentist.com
shores of Capitola Beach. Santa will be riding the waves via Outrigger canoe, rain or shine, for his annual visit to Capitola Village, arriving at 12pm to visit with all the kids until 3pm. capitolavillage.com/ event/surfin-santa-visits-capitola-2024/
Kids Craft Fair 2-7pm Young entrepreneurs aged 6-17 have turned their creative ideas into real businesses. Head to the Childrens’ Discovery Museum and see what the future holds. sccmod.org/ event-details/small-business-saturdaychildrens-craft-fair DDentistry entistry
MINDY ABRAHAM
YOUR HEALTH Embracing Self-Care and Connection This Season
BY JAIME MCFADEN
As we approach the holidays, many of us find ourselves reflecting on how quickly this year has flown by. Some are sipping pumpkin spice lattes, eagerly anticipating the festivities ahead, while others may feel burnt out and lonely.
This article is dedicated to sharing some of my favorite self-care strategies to ensure that this holiday season is filled with support and well-being for all.
For those of you who tend to fill your calendars with back-to-back events, now is the perfect time to set boundaries and plan ahead.
Consider creating space in your schedule by saying “no” to at least one commitment each week. Initially, you might feel guilty or experience a fear of missing out (FOMO), but once you replace that “no” with something nurturing for yourself or your family, you’ll realize how vital it is for your well-being.
So many of us find ourselves on a relentless “treadmill,” powering through life like a blender.
I can relate, coming from a large Greek family where gatherings happen nearly every week of the year—at least 50 times per year! When you add in kids sports,
school, work, and social life, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. It can seem like there’s no time left for self-care, especially when we need it most.
On the other end of the spectrum, we are also facing a widespread epidemic of loneliness that has intensified postpandemic. In fact, a national state of emergency has been declared regarding this issue. Social support is one of the most crucial forms of self-care.
If you read last month’s article, you might remember that I emphasized the importance of increasing social activity within your neighborhood.
I want to give a heartfelt shout-out to my mom, the warmest person I know, who has always welcomed countless guests into our family gatherings. She understands firsthand the significance of community—something that many families sadly lack.
If you’re feeling lonely during the holidays, I encourage you to invest time in developing new relationships. Isolation can lead to depression, making it difficult to see outside of ourselves when we’re entrenched in
our health. In fact, the single biggest risk factor for many diseases is our social connections. According to a report released by the U.S. Surgeon General, the importance of these connections cannot be overstated.
Here are some tips to help you as mentioned in Psychology Today: cultivate connections and build your village:
1. Join a Faith-Based Community: Engage with others and be a part of something bigger than yourself.
2. Take Up a Hobby or Class: Explore new interests where you can meet people and build friendships.
3. Adopt a Pet or Volunteer at an Animal Shelter: Not only will you meet adorable animals, but you’ll also interact with like-minded individuals.
4. Support a Cause: Get involved in community initiatives that resonate with you.
5. Schedule Weekly Check-Ins: Set aside time each week to call a friend or family member and connect.
6. Introduce Yourself: Say hi to your neighbors and build connections within
Ultimately, if you’re working on saying “no” more this season and establishing boundaries, it’s equally important to extend a helping hand and foster connections. Reflect on how you can serve your community.
As a special offer, I am giving away a copy of my book to anyone who emails me with “VILLAGE” in the subject line.
Put yourself in the shoes of those who may lack social support and consider how you can pay it forward.
Most importantly, let’s come together this holiday season to spread love and light in our world. If you’d like to participate in my special holiday masterclass, please email me at jaimemcfaden.com to join my community!
Wishing you a beautiful holiday season! May this inspire you to make the most of your social interactions. Life is precious, and amidst our busyness, we often forget what truly matters.
So, stop and smell the roses, and find ways to support someone else today—it will be the greatest form of self-care.
December 21st & Performances at 1:00 & 4:30
Tips for Guiding Your Child Through Anxiety
BY CARRIE GOODWIN
Are you worried your child worries too much? Let’s dive into childhood anxiety, what it is and how you can help. Anxiety is our internal alarm system designed to keep us safe.
In addition to mental stress, we experience physical symptoms when in a state of anxiety. Some level of anxiety is healthy, while having too much, too often can have serious health ramifications.
HOW COMMON IS CHILDHOOD ANXIETY?
Childhood anxiety is common.
According to the CDC, in 2016–2019, 9.4% of children aged 3–17 had a diagnosed anxiety disorder.
The National Institute of Mental Health Estimates that a whopping 25.1% of children aged 13–18 have an anxiety disorder with 5.9% having a severe anxiety disorder.
Our best estimate comes from a metaanalysis of 29 studies that found 20.5% of children and adolescents had clinically elevated anxiety.
THE BIOLOGICAL ORIGIN OF ANXIETY
Our Fight, Flight or Freeze stress response is designed to keep us alive, however all too often it misfires. If you haven’t already, teach your
child about anxiety from a scientific standpoint. Young kids get a laughat picturing a caveman running away from a threatening saber tooth tiger. There are many YouTubevideos explaining Fight or Flight also referred to as the Upstairs Brain and the Downstairs Brain.
TOOLS TO COPE WITH ANXIETY
It is very difficult to see someone you love suffer from anxiety. It’s a scary thing. In fact, in adults the symptoms of an anxiety attack often mimic that of a heart attack. While it is highly distressing, it’s important that we as adults check ourselves so that we don’t inadvertently exacerbate or minimize their feelings.
Staying calm is important. It is also important not to overcompensate, like telling your child they won’t ever have to go back to school again. Rather, let them know you are there for them. Reassure them they will be okay. Keep the lines of communication open. Praise them for letting you know how they feel. Restate back to them what you hear them saying, then ask “Did I get that right”? (This is not about whether you agree or disagree with what is being said). Ask them to rate the intensity of their feeling, between 1-10 with 10 being the
highest.
Do belly breathing with them and make sure to practice this type of breathing regularly during calm times so it eventually becomes second nature.
If the child is receptive, you can guide them in identifying the worst thing that can happen, the best thing that can happen, and the most likely thing to happen. If they are having an out of proportion stress response to something in which they are not actually in danger, teach them to recognize the false alarm.
Have them visualize taking the thought or the feeling, crumpling it up and throwing it in a basket or flushing it down the toilet.
Parents, teachers, and caregivers can help children come back from their spiraling thoughts by using the 5 Senses activity: Naming something you can see, hear, feel, taste and touch.
The idea is to get our brains back on line and into the present moment because with anxiety we get stuck thinking about something upsetting that happened in the past or worrying about something that might happen in the future.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Like many things, anxiety takes place
on a continuum. We all experience anxiety to some degree, but if the worries or fears interfere with your child’s life for more than 6 months, it may be time to see your pediatrician. If needed, they can refer your child to a Behavioral Health specialist.
Psychology Today is a great online directory in which you can search for therapists or other professionals who work with children in your area.
Typically anxiety waxes and wanes throughout one’s life, so getting comfortable and matter of fact with the topic and tools at an early age will be beneficial.
The goal isn’t to be unrealistically happy all the time, but to remain in our “ok zone” even during times of stress. There is a good deal of evidence that indicates with practice, children will learn to manage their anxiety.
Carrie Goodwin, MS, PPSC, has over twenty years experience counseling children in Santa Clara and Santa Cruz county schools. She is now enrolling youth in her Private Practice Wellness Groups. groupsforkids.wixsite.com 831.687.8011
