January 2019, Independent Schools, New Year

january 2019 always free visit us at www.growingupsc.com

INSIDE: private vs. public school

6 are sat tests 13 a waste?

21 Mall Wonders INDEPENDENT 25 SCHOOL GUIDE

2 Growing Up In Santa Cruz • January 2019

what’s inside...

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Brad Kava, Jennifer Ford, steve dinnen

DESIGN/ILLuSTrATOr ashley girres

ADDITIONAL AD DESIGN ann Fitts

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Back to Ballet

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Major Miracles

erik chalhoub, robin estrin, dr. mojdeh Faraz, Zach Friend, elaine ingalls, linda Kay, Karen Kefauver, John Koenig, Jennifer mahal, laura maxson, ann carin niland, ramona pursley, susan H. shane, michelle spence, tiffany Wayne, suki Wessling, nicole m. Young Printed lovingly by Fricke-Parks Press

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January 2019 • Vol. 21 • No. 11 growing up in santa cruz copyright 2019. printed in the united states. the contents of this publication are meant as information only and should not take the place of a medical doctor’s recommendations. all views expressed represent those of the individual authors. all rights reserved. reproduction in whole or in part, in any form, electronic or otherwise is prohibited without permission. this publication does not knowingly accept deceptive or misleading advertising. guisc is printed on recycled paper and uses all soy based inks.

January 2019 • Growing Up In Santa Cruz 3

from the editors Dear readers, We celebrate the new year with stories of three amazing women who have overcome challenges, reinvented themselves and brought so much to this community.

Ramona Pursley was a Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Deputy who, after retirement, started a new life raising young kids and working as a personal trainer and massage therapist. In her “spare” time, she bakes to raise money for Pajaro Valley High School teams and shows up at all their games. That alone would be inspiring enough, but in her 57th year, with surgically repaired knees that would limit activity for most people, she tried out one of her life’s dreams by taking ballet classes, an athletic challenge for anyone at any age.

While dropping off her preteens at their classes, she thought, why not? It was something she’d always dreamed of and decided she wasn’t going to let another year pass with a dream unfulfilled.

It’s been challenging and tough, but she says, it’s one of the greatest things she’s done.

Lizz Hodgin has been a theater lover all of her life and she shared her passion with her now 24-year-old son Daniel, who faced mental challenges. For years she took him over the hill to participate in San Jose’s Angels on Stage. It woke something up in him. He was shy and

stuttered off stage, but on stage he was exuberant and happy.

Exhausted from the weekly drives and wanting to build a community here, she started Miracles Santa Cruz in 2013, a theater company in Santa Cruz for mentally or physically challenged people age 8 and up. The response has been tremendous and if you’ve seen their shows or rehearsals, you can’t help but share in the tremendous joy and community they have built.

Finally, retired family therapist Patrice Keet had a vision while visiting children’s discovery museums in other cities with her grandchildren and wondered why we can’t have one here. Two years of hard work later, she opened the Children’s Museum of Discovery in the Capitola Mall and was shocked to see 2,000 people lined up at the opening day six years ago. She has since brought in 220,000 visitors to a friendly, handson museum that keeps us from having to drive to San Francisco’s Exploratorium for an educational play day.

Perhaps the most amazing thing about her project is that she and her family, especially husband Bob, a doctor, designed and created the exhibits that kids love so much.

We salute all three of you great women for helping make Santa Cruz a better place in which to grow up. Read more about them inside.

Brad Kava Jennifer Ford

about the cover

Salesian Elementary & Junior High has been recognized as an Ocean Guardian School resulting from extensive sustainability practices and ongoing projects organized and implemented by the students. Additionally, Salesian is celebrating 40 years of education in Santa Cruz County serving grades TK-8. e school’s 50-acre campus, peacefully tucked away in the Corralitos hills, (yet conveniently located only five miles away from Highway 1 and Freedom Blvd.) offers endless educational opportunities for empowering students as stewards of the Earth. To learn more, visit www.salesianschool.org. Salesian welcomes families of all faith backgrounds to discover Salesian and feel the spirit!

Photograph by Jeff randolph Born and raised in Santa Cruz, Jeff is a professional photographer and graduate of Salesian Elementary & Junior High where his two youngest children are currently enrolled. His oldest daughter, Jordan, also a Salesian alumna, is a fantastic photographer. eir photos can be seen at www.jeffrandolph.com 4 Growing Up In Santa Cruz • January 2019

ask nicole

Positive Parenting Awareness Month A tiMe to renew, refresh, And rechArge

By Nicole M. Young, MSW

Another year has flown by, leaving me wondering where the time went.

As I think about my family’s milestones and memories over the past year, I’m reminded of how often I get consumed by work, my family’s hectic schedule, and the never-ending list of household chores. It’s easy for my family to go through the motions of our daily routines – get up, go to school or work, come home, eat, do homework or work, go to bed, repeat, repeat, repeat – and even be in the same room without really noticing and appreciating each other. It takes deliberate and constant effort to be a positive parent (and partner), and the new year is a good time for a fresh start.

This January, Santa Cruz County is celebrating Positive Parenting Awareness Month for the seventh year in a row, and several other counties in California are joining in – Inyo, Napa, Mendocino, Sonoma, and possibly more! Positive Parenting Awareness Month is a time to recognize the vital role that “parents” – including birth, foster, and adoptive parents, grandparents, and other relatives or family friends – play in raising happy, healthy, thriving children. It’s a chance to encourage all types of families to seek and accept support from friends, family members, neighbors, and local resources, such as the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program. And it’s a time to let go of past parenting mistakes or regrets and start the new year with new tools in the “parenting toolbox.”

We encourage everyone to use and share these tips to renew, refresh, and recharge their commitment to positive parenting not just in January, but every day of the year.

What is positive parenting? It’s an approach to raising children that strengthens family relationships, increases parents’ confidence and promotes children’s healthy development.

Research shows that the quality of parenting and caregiving throughout a child’s life is one of the most powerful predictors of their future social, emotional, and physical health and wellbeing.

There isn’t one “right” way to be a parent, but there are many parenting programs and strategies that have helped families across the world. One program in Santa Cruz County is Triple P, which is based on these five principles of positive parenting: Principle 1: Provide a safe, interesting environment. This gives children and teens the opportunity to play, explore, discover and experiment.

This is how they learn and develop

important life skills, such as communicating with others, solving problems, and being independent. The amount of supervision and limit-setting will change as children get older, but even teens (and young adults) need to know they have people in their lives who will keep them physically and emotionally safe.

Principle 2: Create a positive learning environment. Help children and teens feel safe and confident to explore and learn new skills by noticing their efforts, giving positive attention and descriptive praise, and modeling healthy, appropriate behaviors. These tips might seem too simple or obvious to mention, but many times it’s the smallest efforts that make the biggest difference.

Principle 3: Use assertive discipline. Remember that discipline is not the same as punishment. Assertive discipline is a calm, consistent approach to teaching children and teens new ways of thinking and behaving. When used as a teaching tool, assertive discipline helps children and teens accept

responsibility for their choices, become aware of other people’s needs, and develop self-control. Someday, your children’s employers and partners will thank you for teaching them these skills.

Principle 4: Have realistic expectations. Every child and teen is unique in the way they learn and develop.

Conflict and frustration can occur when parents expect too much too soon of their children. Likewise, children and teens miss opportunities to learn and grow when parents don’t expect enough of their children. It’s also important for parents to have realistic expectations of themselves. Remember there’s no such thing as a perfect parent or child.

Principle 5: Take care of yourself as a parent. Many parents and caregivers feel unprepared or uncertain, and asking for help is often seen as a weakness. Fear of being blamed or shamed prevents many people from seeking support. And yet, the non-stop job of parenting is easier when our own physical, social, emotional, and intel-

lectual needs are met. This recharges our “parenting batteries” so that we have energy to be patient, consistent, and available for our children. final thoughts: Let’s make positive parenting a daily habit and start the new year with a renewed focus on our family relationships and parenting practices. I’m in – are you?

Nicole Young is the mother of two children, ages 14 and 18, who also manages Santa Cruz County's Triple P - Positive Parenting Program, the world's leading positive parenting program. Scientifically proven, Triple P is made available locally

by First 5 Santa Cruz County, the Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency (Mental Health Services Act) and the Santa Cruz County Human Services Department. To find a Triple P parenting class or practitioner, visit http://triplep.first5scc.org, www.facebook.com/triplepscc or contact First 5 Santa Cruz County at 465-2217 or triplep@first5scc.org.

January 2019 • Growing Up In Santa Cruz 5

education

Private school:

Posh or PercePtion?

This mother has sent children to public and private schools. Here’s what she learned.

By Paige Berardo

Photo contributed. scHOOl cHOice there are so many choices of great schools in santa cruz county, public and private, it takes major study to pick what’s best for your children.

With heightened awareness of the impact of stereotypes and biases in our world, I considered the labeling in this publication of private schools as ‘a posher place to educate children’ as an opportunity to provide another perspective about fee-based schools.

I get it—‘posh’ is an easy name to call a private (or independent) school. With an annual tuition—what families often look at first—I’ve heard the misperception many times.

The thing about labeling however is that it affects expectations—of people, places, experiences, everything. I bristled momentarily at the description because it fails to uphold the central idea of education; learning.

My perspective comes from personal and professional experience with both types of schools, but am not an expert.

I offer my perspective to encourage readers who are hopeful and committed to their children’s education to investigate all their options. Options do exist.

Although I am currently employed by an independent school, I am a longstanding supporter of public schools and have years of experience in the public education arena.

Two of my three children graduated from public schools (as did I). I ran an education foundation that raised money and funded programs for public schools, and was elected to the Board of Trustees, serving a four-year public governance term in a TK-8 district. I’ve been on many public school committees from strategic planning, scheduling, 6 Growing Up In Santa Cruz • January 2019

budget, negotiations and program advisory, to do my part to help.

I mentioned two of my three kids.

My third child went from K-7th in public schools and then moved to an independent school a year ago, in 8th grade.

The main reason for the move is because he’s a social learner; he understands when he talks about things. He needs to be visible and engaged, to be able to ask frequent questions and clarify. That’s challenging in classrooms of 20-30 pupils.

We wanted an educational experience that offered more individualized learning in smaller class sizes to keep him interested. The closer he moved to high school, the more it seemed his interest in school waned. In public school I watched his grades slump while his self-esteem spiral.

I am thankful every day that he moved. He probably misses being in the bigger public school environment where he could disappear from time to time— fly under the radar. I’m glad his current teachers don’t let him do that. And the anecdotal feedback I get when for he involves me in a the preparation for a debate he’s having in history, or when he talks to me about what he’s reading and what he thinks about it—is proof that he’s switched-on at school. That’s what I want to see: evidence of thinking, consideration of new ideas, interest in learning.

Independent schools provide different educational models, standards, and practices than public schools. These different ways of educating, these different approaches, offer alternatives to families to achieve what I believe everyone wants; the best education possible for their unique, highly-individual children.

That is probably the best place to start when considering public or private education: how does your child best learn? What are things that are important to have in place to support your child’s education? Do you have ideological, religious, or other considerations that would impact your decision?

There is no educational panacea.

Public schools are right for some kids, independent schools are right for others. Ruling out one model however by assuming that it’s only for the wealthy takes a lot of good options off the table.

In addition to giving my son a learning environment that addresses his needs, the independent school he attends offers our family a values-aligned education. Public schools, because they

education are government entities, operate, in general, within the definition of education that the State of California defines as satisfactory.

Now that I’ve been in both worlds, I believe the main difference between public and independent schools is in their decision making. Independent schools operate outside the realm of public governance, are accredited by agencies like the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) and are independently governed by a Board of Directors.

In an independent school, decisions align with their values, and their values represent the community they serve.

Decision making and accountability at an independent school is directly connected to the community it serves.

Whatever an independent school’s values—be it small class sizes, innovation, more intense academic rigor, citizenship, longer school days, faith-based education, a focus on a particular subject area like performing arts or STEM, design-thinking, project-based learning, faculty who are subject-matter experts—they have the independence, the freedom, to make programmatic and personnel decisions to support their values. They can act swiftly to adjust to (for example) new research, new understanding of achievement, stress, or child development, and technological ad-

vancements.

Public schools, including public charter schools, must operate in accordance with state and federal law. Even charter schools operate with oversight from their local authority, or authorizer, their County Office of Education or State Board of Education.

If you develop a list of criteria essential to your child’s optimal learning environment, you can assess various schools to see how they might address those criteria. Visit them. Both public and private schools have opportunities to get to know the school before a student enrolls there. Visiting a school will help you get to know its community— and assess fit.

Public schools are free. Independent schools are tuition-based. For many families, like mine, paying tuition is a high bar. I never thought I could afford it. Here’s what I’ve learned. Every independent school I looked at offers a Financial Aid program. These are in place to help independent schools attract a diverse community of students and families who also believe in the values of the school. The school my son is in has students from Watsonville to San Jose. His friends come from all over, but the one consistency is that their parents believe in the type of education his school offers, and in that commitment to its values, create a strong community.

January 2019 • Growing Up In Santa Cruz 7

education top Misconceptions about Private schools

By Paige Berardo

Private schools are only for the wealthy. Parents from every walk of life send their children to private schools. For many families, private school is a deliberate choice that demands significant life trade-offs.

Where good public schools exist, private schools are unnecessary.

Healthy communities provide a wide variety of choices to their families to meet the needs of every individual. Having strong public and private school choices enables every child to attain the education that is best for them—and it encourages both systems to do what they do best and not try to be everything to everybody.

Private schools lack diversity. The promise of education is to prepare students for their future. This promise cannot be authentically fulfilled in a homogeneous environment. Diverse communities create opportunity for different experiences and perspectives to ignite intellectual curiosity, provide opportunity for innovation, and fuel compassion and understanding.

Photo contributed.

FaKe VieWs there are so many misconceptions about private schools, including that they lack diversity or are too expensive. paige Berardo has sent her children to both and clears up some questions.

Students who graduate high school today are tomorrow’s leaders: they will shortly enter a global workforce. Private schools are intentional in how they cultivate their community. They create opportunity through all aspects of their systems—from financial aid programs, curriculum and program development, HR and hiring practices, professional development and more—to build a community that fulfills the promise in a manner consistent with its mission. Yes, some schools are more progressive than others; do your homework when looking into them.

Private schools don’t attract qualified faculty. It is true that by law you do not need a teaching credential to teach at an independent school (because independent schools are not governed by the California Department of Education like public schools are), however you will find credentialed teachers at private schools as well as a high percentage of advanced degrees in their subject of expertise.

Private schools are only for children who have learning differences or who don’t fit in at public schools.

While there are specialized schools that cater to students with unique learning abilities, it is not the case that every single one caters to students with learning differences.

Private schools are only for really smart kids who need accelerated

8 Growing Up In Santa Cruz • January 2019

learning options. Like the answer above, there are some independent schools that cater to accelerated learning models however this is generally a specialized school, and not all schools.

All private schools have a religious affiliation. Private schools can be operated by a non-governmental, for profit, not-for-profit, religious or non-sectarian organization(s)— meaning they can be faith-based or not. Independent schools are also private schools in that they are notfor-profit entities funded by tuition and or donations. The key difference is that they are run independently by a board of trustees and follow their unique mission.

Private schools have no accountability / aren’t regulated. Private schools go through a rigorous accreditation process that is conducted by an agency such as the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. These agencies are internationally known and highly regarded and often collaborate with the state Department of Education as is the case between WASC and the California Department of Education. Private schools must perform to the standards expressed in their accreditation, and more importantly, to the standards of their community, to whom they are ultimately beholden.

Private school kids are entitled or snobby. See answer 1. My son’s peers at school are some of the most down to earth, good-hearted and sincere individuals he’s ever known. Not a hint of chip on the shoulder. A school’s culture is certainly specific to each, so it’s worth visiting the campus to get a feel for it yourself.

private and independent: what’s the difference?

Private schools can be operated by a non-governmental, for profit or not-for-profit, or religious or nonsecular organization(s). They are funded by fees, donations, the organizations that operate the school, or some combination thereof.

Independent schools are not-forprofit entities funded by tuition and or donations and run independently by a local board of trustees.

Neither private nor independent schools receive public funding for their general education program and both are accredited by an agency approved by the state.

community voices

Your Letters and thoughts Parent Paparazzi The parent paparazzi phenomenon is certainly nothing new, but it wasn’t until I took my toddler to a big children’s museum this summer that I was really shocked by it.

I was hanging out nearby as my two year old pretended to drive a model cable car, I watched other families interact with their kids around us. Here’s the scene that opened my eyes…

Two sets of adults (presumably parents and grandparents) with a chubby cheeked toddler join my little one on the mini cable car. The parent’s placed said toddler in the cable car seat while 4 voices behind phones shout for attention “look here, over here Billy, smile!”, the glazed eyes of an over stimulated child gaze back. Then while the toddler continues to stare towards the mob of cameras the adults all drop their eyes to their chest high screens and begin the process of reviewing and comparing images, “did you get that?” they ask each other, “oh that’s a good one” they congratulate.

The toddler is then encouraged to reposition and the process repeats. It was a bit like watching a family on safari except the wildlife was a family member that they carry along with them. As this group leaves and another family appears, siblings this time about 2 and 3 years old, this time mom commands “look here, now smile! If you don’t smile your not getting a treat” the children give some version of a smile and the pair is herded away to another photo opt.

This kept happening and I began to question, who are these photos really for? Personally I have thousands of photos of my little one and not one (other than what is automatically created for me by my tech) photo album.

Are these doting relatives using photos of their kids for the Facebook dopamine hit (37 likes!) or are they just bored and need something to keep

please send YOur OpiniOns tO editOr@grOWingupsc.cOm their ever busy hands and minds ocPajaro Valley High School cupied instead of actually seeing their I was recently visiting family in children interact with the world. LisAptos, I have a nephew who plays ten, if it’s boredom, I get it; watching football for the Pajaro Valley High children dig in the sandbox isn’t my School. I was apalled to see the conidea of inspiration either. Personally I dition of their football field abd am overwhelmed by my commitments school grounds.The lack of parent and I am trying to cultivate boredom. participation,and concern for the It’s something I was taught to value as schools up keep. I totally understand the gateway to creativity and honestly that there are numerous low income I just need some space to let my hispanic families that work long hours thoughts and body settle down. in the fields. Add to that the cultural Back to the cable car scenario while aspect and its very difficult for these I get some possible motivations (infamilies to have the time to support cluding the love for our children vergthe school. Yet there must be other ing on child worship-I’m guilty too) as families that have seen the needs at an early childhood educator I also see the school, members of the school disthe cost for the kids. First, you’re intrict,city council members,business terrupting the child’s direct experiowners, right? I am an outsider lookence, prioritizing instead the attention ing in and maybe I don’t comprehend on yourself (aka “look here, over how these things work. Yet I also here!). How is a child supposed to know the importance of an education imagine what it would really be like to and extra curricular activities for our drive a cable car with the children. I raised six children of my screaming for attention? We are own, I always managed to find time also inadvertently teaching them the to support their school in any way I value of our public image. We are also could. Our school system is the main passing on our training in fragmented source for these kids to hopefully get attention at the cost of them learning educated and become better citizens to focus, imagine, problem solve aka and get better jobs as adults. Even the be independent learners. I’m not saying we should never interrupt kids play to catch that perfect shot, sometimes it’s worth it, but know that it’s mostly for our own satisfaction. As much as our kids are the center of our universe it’s not doing them any favors to treat them like child stars. Modeling doing nothing is super hip right now, you should check it out.

local news the night of the game had great coverage of the games for Aptos, Monterey, even Scotts Valley. The money was very noticeable in the Monterey School their field looked like a professional field. When it came to PVHS no video shots and a very short score was all that was mentioned. I would not want to show videos of their fields poor condition on the air either. What about the saftey factor for these kids on that field full of holes and gopher mounds.

Or walking into school with halls full of bird waste, not to healthy. This matter should have immediate attention from parents, teachers, school district members and the City of Watsonville.Those kids, all kids deserve a fair chance in life. As adults it’s our responsibility to make sure they have every possible chance to succeed.

Guadalupe Astorga a mother of six children, fourteen grandchildren, and one great granchild. retired living in Oak Harbor Washington.

JoAnna Ferraro, MA has been an early childhood educator since 2000. she was director of esalen institute’s gazebo park preschool & infant toddler center and is the Founder of early ecology - one of the first forest pre-schools in the Bay area as well as Happy Valley nature preschool in santa cruz.

January 2019 • Growing Up In Santa Cruz 9

fitness

dance Like everyone is Looking A MoM rAises the bALLet bArre for the first tiMe By ramona Pursley

As we enter a New Year, I reflect on what I’ve accomplished during the past year both personally and as a parent.

One of the best things I did in 2018 was stepping out of my regular Mom Role and trying a challenge I’d wanted to try my whole life—to learn ballet, a real challenge at the age of 57.

As older parents of young children, my husband Bob and I find our selves running from one after school activity to another. Our two children ages 11 and almost 13 are involved in Tae Kwon Do, dance and basketball. Bob also coaches high school football and wrestling. We are constantly trying to balance our life and find time for ourselves. We still try to get a workout in everyday and on rare occasions have a date night.

I have spent many hours watching my kids dance at Dancenter in Capitola. One day during this past summer as I waited for the kids to finish their class, I noticed several adults enter one of the dance studios in preparation for an adult class. Sue, the front desk manager walked by as I sat in the waiting

room which faces the studio where the class was about to begin.

Sue asked if I knew someone in the adult class, I told her I did not but was interested in watching them dance. Sue then asked why I hadn’t tried a class myself.

At that moment, I realized that I had the opportunity to fulfill a lifelong dream….to take ballet.

For as long has I can remember, I have always loved ballet. As a child, I never had the opportunity to take a dance class. As an adult, I was always working, too busy to participate in a class and the last 15 years rehabilitating numerous knee surgeries. Quite frankly I thought I would embarrass myself by even trying.

Every year during Christmas time I took my now adult children to see the Nutcracker and have continued the tradition. More than 20 years have passed and I still sit in awe as the dancers glide, leap and twirl with what seems like effortless skill.

So, despite my left knee replacement, impending right knee replacement and

Photo by: Brad Kava liVin’ tHe dream at 57, ramona pursley is living her childhood dream, taking ballet and practicing alongside her 12-year-old daughter. For a slide show of her adult ballet, visit www.growingupsc.com severe arthritis, I decided to try a class.

I thought I would try one during the summer and figure out if my body would hold up. I was also curious to find out if it were possible to modify some moves that I found difficult to perform due to my injuries.

First of all, I was relieved to have an instructor that is so patient, understanding and accommodating. Laurel is an excellent teacher and moves with such grace and expertise. She teaches in a way that I understand and is aware when a move proves to be too difficult to execute. She is quick to give instruction on ways modify and/or simplify a move.

I have always worked out and competed in power lifting, bodybuilding, distance running and cycling. This is different, it’s a lot harder than it looks.

Dance requires focus, balance, strength, stamina, determination, flexibility and in my case patience and a sense of humor.

As we age balance, flexibility and 10 Growing Up In Santa Cruz • January 2019

strength start to diminish and it is very important to work on these things for a better quality of life as well as function.

As I go through the dance moves, my brain tells me I can perform the task at hand, my body doesn’t always cooperate. Yet, I have noticed some improvement in balance and flexibility. Most importantly, I am having a great time!

During that one hour, I think of nothing else but ballet. I don’t worry about what I have to make for dinner, schedules for the week or appointments. For me it is a mini one-hour vacation from the stress of daily life.

The teachers and administrators at the school were very supportive. I know that there must be other parents like me who sit and watch their kids dance or participate in other sports. If any of these activities are something you have always wanted to try, I say, “Go for it”, life is too short not to.

I feel thankful and blessed for the opportunity. I will continue to dance with a smile on my face and joy in my heart.

fitness

get Pumped! bicYcLe PuMP trAcks for the fAMiLY

By Karen Kefauver Santa Cruz pump tracks are a magnet for kids and parents alike. It’s an ideal place for parents to hang out and experience a unique type of bicycle playground.

Typically constructed from dirt, pump tracks feature round bumps and banked turns that are designed to help a rider maintain momentum using a pumping action instead of pedaling. Any age rider can hop on the track to practice “pumping” and pedaling is totally acceptable. Completing a single loop may take anywhere from 15 seconds to a minute, though kids may spend hours on the circuit. Fortunately, there are plenty of tracks to choose from in Santa Cruz County, including a brand new one: Watsonville opened its first pump track in September, Pinto Pump Track at Pinto Lake County Park.

I’m glad the kids in South County will have a pump track because they’re in for a treat. I had no idea how much fun they are (and a challenge, too) until 2014 when I made my debut at Chanticleer Pump Track, riding my mountain bike with the seat removed and using flat pedals.

You don’t need a special kind of bike for a pump track, though fat tires and BMX-style are best because you’re standing the whole time and will have a lower center of gravity.

I turned to Mark Davidson, former president of Mountain Bikers of Santa Cruz, for pump track perspective, because he’s had one in his backyard for seven years. Both he and his wife, Eve Davidson, have enjoyed riding it, though their teenage daughter currently shows little interest. “It’s pure recreation, fun and play,” said Davidson, who winds down on it after work. “The track is designed to promote flow and propel yourself around the track. Pumping is more like transferring your weight using your legs to spring up and down and moving your center of gravity with your legs to create and build forward movement.” it’s easier than it sounds Santa Cruz resident Jen Robinson and her son, Toby, 5, have visited several local pump tracks and she recommends Chanticleer Pump Track in Live Oak.

“It’s really fun because it has different levels and different courses so you can be different abilities. Toby loved the feeling of going up and down on the terrain and feeling like a real mountain biker.” even toddlers can use the pump track.

“It’s amazing seeing a kid on a strider on a pump track,” said Davidson. “It gives me hope for the future.

Those kids have an early positive experience with a bicycle and they see even bigger kids and adults also on their bikes having happy, good times.

I think that’s going to be key to sustainable future. People won’t drive cars all the time. Bikes and e-bikes will help reduce traffic jams and promote human health and happiness.”

photo by: Karen Kefauver pumping up pump tracks are not just for kids; grown ups can join the fun! pictured here is chanticleer pump track in live Oak.

Karen Kefauver is a freelance journalist, social media coach and mountain biker based in Santa Cruz since 1993.

For more bicycling stories, visit: www.karenkefauver.com.

Pump tracks in santa cruz county: All ages and abilities welcome Harvey West pump track at Harvey West park, 326 evergreen street. chanticleer park pump track at chanticleer park in live Oak (chanticleer avenue between mattison lane & capitola road) West side pump track, 100 Western drive. scotts Valley pump track at sky park in scotts Valley (mt. Hermon road & 361 Kings Village road). san lorenzo park pump track, on the lower meadow near the Water street Bridge capitola pump track in capitola (mcgregor drive). polo grounds Jump park at the polo grounds county park in aptos. pinto lake pump track at pinto lake county park (757 green Valley road).

January 2019 • Growing Up In Santa Cruz 11

family law

think twice before You take Parenting Matters to court So there’s drama with your parenting relationship on how to raise your children. You have both lawyered up and are headed to court. BUT LOOK BEFORE YOU LEAP! This often occurs after the holidays. Drama abounds when you navigate who has the children on Christmas, care over school breaks and scheduling winter trips. If you

By Bob Derber your child(ren). If you can comproare reading this, you survived, but mise, you will likely reach a better repossibly not unscathed. sult than will When parents collide, you may ask the judge. As a judge to make decisions on matters well, parental best left to parents. The judge has no agreements, intimate knowledge, as you have, rather than about your children. At your first court orders, are court visit, you will likely be referred typically folto Family Court Services (FCS), a more lowed mediation process to encourage you closely by parto reach an agreement with your ex ents. about custodial and parenting matConflict beters. tween you and FCS staff are highly skilled indiyour ex is highly viduals, but their workload limits the disturbing to the child(ren). This time to focus on your situation. They alone is good reason to reach agreemust often make a ‘best guess’ in matment. You may want your child(ren) ters brought to their attention. If parto have a phone, your ex may not. ents cannot agree, here in Santa Cruz Compromise! How about a phone the FCS mediator makes recommenwhich limits who can be called and dations to the judge, and these are regulates any internet access so your often made into a court order by the child sees only age-appropriate conjudge. This typically includes custent. Also, if most the children in tody, parent-time allocations, telehis/her class have phones, consider phone contact with the child(ren) the social issues your child faces when and other matters. ‘all’ his/her friends have a phone but But think first. You and your ex s/he does not. Perhaps some input by may not get along, but you are still a teacher may help. the ones who know what’s best for

Does your child want to be involved in a sport? Can you two agree on how participation costs will be shared? Can you both support him or her by attending practices and games? And when you exchange the children for visits, can you agree on a place and time that works for both?

Reach agreement on every matter you can so a court addresses only the areas where you cannot. If there is another professional involved, perhaps a child’s counselor who knows your son or daughter well, their recommendation might break a deadlock. Make a list of items that you hope you can discuss and clear the way for the judge on all you can agree to. Often it is only one or two stumbling block where parents need an individual outside the family to make a decision.

Bottom line - even when the two of you cannot get along, there is little reason to introduce your child into these adult matters. Focus on the child, and avoid ‘punishing’ the ex.

You may believe your ex is not supportive of academic goals for your child. This may be, and you will likely not change this. Reach agreements that take the other parent’s characteristics into account. If he or she is not strong on academics, perhaps you might agree that your child has access to a tutor! Consider how the skill-sets and priorities of each parent can be used to benefit your children best of all.

Explore all the options before you ask a third-party, including the judge, to make decisions for you. We are lucky to have the judges we do in Santa Cruz. Even so, they are not the parent of your child(ren).

If you have questions or observations, feel free to reach out to GUiSC. Emails to editor@growingupsc.com are always welcome. Perhaps there is a topic you would like addressed.

GUiSC is a service to support positive parenting in Santa Cruz. For 20 years, GUiSC seeks to foster happy and healthy Santa Cruz children!

Bob Derber is a local attorney practicing family law. He served as a State appointed Guardian ad Litem in high conflict matters in the State of Utah before returning to his home in Santa Cruz four years ago. Your situation may differ and the above is not intended to be legal advice to you in your own custodial matters. Be sure to consult with your family law attorney as appropriate if you need help in this area. Have questions for him to answer?

Send them to editor@growingupsc.com

12 Growing Up In Santa Cruz • January 2019

education do college entrance exams help or hurt students?

A new fiLM chALLenges the MuLti-biLLion doLLAr test industrY

By Brad Kava Every year more than 7 million high school students pull out their Number 2 pencils and go through a drill about as pleasant as having a cavity filled—-only it takes longer.

For almost a century the SAT and ACT tests have been required by many colleges looking to determine how high school students will do in higher education. Only, in recent years, there has been pushback against the tests by educators who claim they don’t really measure aptitude, they favor students from wealthier homes who can afford paying for test tutors and they skew toward those who have a talent for taking tests, rather than those with other aptitudes.

In the new documentary The Test & the Art of Thinking, filmmaker Michael Arlen Davis examines the tests through interviews with students, parents, counselors, test-prep professionals and academics, to provide a fascinating look at this American rite of passage and how it reflects deeper issues in the educational system — and society as a whole.

“These tests are like the story of the emperor who has no clothes,” said Shannon Kelly, the upper school director at Mount Madonna School.

“We understand that doing well on these exams has no bearing on college success, yet we are all forced to participate in the farce. I hope that this important film will open up the discussion around standardized testing and how this impacts students and our entire education system.”

Leon Botstein, president of Bard College in New York, agrees.

“Mathematics, science, being able to use the English language, these tests don’t measure it and they don’t improve it. So why do they exist?” he asks in the film.

The tests were originally based on Army IQ exams and first given in 1926 as college admissions tests, according to Prep Scholar.com They were first thought to be a way to help underprivileged students get into college by showing their aptitudes deserved the same higher education that wealthier students could get. It was a way to get them scholarships.

But they’ve evolved into an arms race as parents pay tutors to help raise their kids’ scores—basically the opposite of its original purpose.

SAT once stood for Scholastic Aptitude Test, but after criticism that it didn’t really measure aptitude, the nonprofit College Board, which administers the tests, first changed the

Pitzer, Sewanee, Smith, Wesleyan, Whitman, American, Brandeis, George Washington, Wake Forest and Worcester Polytechnic.

“Studies show that an applicant’s high school record – grades plus course rigor – predicts undergraduate success better than any standardized exam,”said FairTest Public Education Director Bob Schaeffer, who urges K12 schools to back off their testing obsession.

“By going test-optional, colleges increase diversity without any loss in academic quality. Eliminating testing requirements is a ‘win-win’ for both students and schools.”

Photo contributed.: stress test sat and act tests stress out millions of students a year. are they learning, or just learning to take a test?

In February, Mount Madonna School will host two public screenings of the film: Thursday, Feb. 7 at the Resource Center for Nonviolence in Santa Cruz; and Thursday, Feb. 28 at the Community Playhouse in Morgan Hill. General admission tickets are $5, and go on sale January 1 at MMS-FilmScreening.brownpapertickets.com.

middle word to assessment and then dropped the acronym entirely, saying SAT doesn’t stand for anything, according to a history in Magoosh.com.

But for many high school seniors, it stands for torture and chewed up pencil erasers.

The College Board, which was founded in 1900 and represents 6,000 colleges, is trying to level the playing field, according to Aptos High School Assistant Principal Julie Edwards, who is also a college and career counselor.

“There is free tutoring online where they can evaluate PSAT scores and help you with free online courses at the Khan Academy,” she said. Students at her school take free practice SATS in their sophomore and junior years to prepare for the college exams.

“Kids who take those are shown to do better later on,” she said. “Anything in life, the more experience you have, the better you will do. That’s why we provide PSATs. We want all of our students to have that advantage.”

An organization called Fairtest.org has put pressure on the College Board to move away from the standardized tests as a way to measure abilities.

The website has a list of a thousand accredited colleges that don’t use SATs or ACTs to determine who should be admitted to their schools.

Included on the list are Bates, Bowdoin, Furman, Holy Cross, January 2019 • Growing Up In Santa Cruz 13

information: Meet the Doulas, Jan 19 mtdjan2019.eventbrite.com www.birthnet.org birth doulas, childbirth educators, midwives and more

birthatters m

By Laura Maxson, LM

e don’t expect labor to be easy, w but some labors are just plain

hard for a variety of reasons that may include labors that are too fast or too slow, have too many surprises or some unexpected drama. In these especially difficult situations, a woman may have a moment where she throws in the towel. She will say a version of: “I can’t do this anymore.” And in this moment it seems completely reasonable. This is not an “easy” labor; this is the kind of labor in which even the most committed natural-birther could change her mind without remorse.

Often (oh, so often!) this moment is met, not with the acknowledgement that labor is hard, but with the conclusion that it is too hard. It can be those around the woman who are more than ready to throw in the towel, because in some ways the support people are suffering right along with the laboring woman. Watching someone they love endure the extreme hardship of body and spirit that comes with labor can be exhausting and, in its own way, excruciating. There are no helpful hormones for partners, no time-stopping-labor-land for grandmas to float off to. Being given the chance to do something to relieve this

T THE LIGH G IN D L O H pain for themselves and the laboring woman can seem like a perfect solution, and the fact that it comes at the obvious moment when she is finally overwhelmed by her labor or by circumstance makes it more palatable.

But the amazing thing is – after throwing in the towel – some women will actually reach down and pick it up again. For some women just having someone say “Yes, it would totally make sense to use pain relieving drugs in this circumstance” – starting a Pitocin drip, beginning the twelfth hour of labor, or finding out she is still seven centimeters – is enough to give her new strength. The difference can be simply in the way it is acknowledged. “Yes, the drug option is there for you and all we have to do is ask for it, but it will still be there if you want to try getting into the shower first.”

Or into the tub, or get those sterile water injections for back labor. Or we can try sitting on the birth ball, or just give it four more contractions, then reassess. Instead of saying no to pain medication, we can say yes pain medications are an option, let’s make sure it’s the option you really want right now.

What a reservoir of energy and optimism a woman can find when, after getting out of the shower, she finds that she is no longer seven centimeters.

Or that she realizes she is coping quite well with Pitocin contractions now that she has taken the time to settle in with it. She can be shocked to find that while she was sitting on the birth ball leaning into her partner with her doula massaging her back, another hour and a half went by, when she was convinced she couldn’t handle one more contraction.

Sometimes it isn’t doing one more contraction as much as it is doing one more contraction in the same position on the bed with all the bright lights on and her support people sitting around her with worried looks on their faces.

A plan to have a natural birth is not always enough. Someone needs to have a plan for the next contraction and the one after that. Someone needs to turn down the lights, close the hospital room door (yet again), pull the siderail down and move the bed up a bit so her partner can really get in there faceto-face and hand-in-hand to support

and love her.

She needs someone who recognizes that the power of the woman can match the power of her labor. Someone who sees the heroic nature of childbirth – women going deep within themselves to be stripped and shaken of all expectation to emerge triumphant in their unexpected strength. This can be the woman’s partner or mother or friend. But often it is not. These people are on their own journey and may not recognize the rhythms and flow of labor, especially a challenging labor.

Most likely it is a birth doula or other professional labor support in attendance that make the difference. But it might also be the midwife, OB or labor nurse who provides the right kind of support at the right moment.

She can say yes to the laboring woman’s desire for labor to be over, yes to her desire for drugs. But, she can say yes while holding the light - saying yes in a way that gives the woman the opportunity to say no.

Laura Maxson, LM, CPM, the mother of three grown children, has been working with pregnant and breastfeeding women for over 30 years. Currently she is the executive director of Birth Network of Santa Cruz County and has a homebirth midwifery practice.

Contact her at midwife@scshop.com or postmaster@birthnet.org

January 2019 • Growing Up In Santa Cruz 14

15 Growing Up In Santa Cruz • January 2019

environment

salesian students work on Project ocean LeArning conservAtion first-hAnd

By Joey Silva

For three years now, students at Salesian Elementary and Junior High School have been busy working on their 50-acre campus, in the school’s Life Lab, and along the Monterey Bay with gardening efforts for their Ocean Guardian Projects.

Salesian is entering its third year being supported by NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association) via the Ocean Guardian School Program. Through this program, Salesian students work to protect the ocean and watershed through smart practices and projects that promote healthy ecosystems through the planting of native species, removal of invasive plant species, water conservation, erosion control, reuse of materials, and reducing waste in the garden environment.

To date, students have planted 18 fruit trees in their mini orchard, planted over 100 native or droughttolerant trees and shrubs on campus, collected more than 5,500 gallons of rainwater, and have teamed up with the City of Monterey for a dune restoration project at Del Monte Beach as well as a native tree planting in Quarry Park.

“The Ocean Guardian School program has taught me about the importance of conservation and steps I can take to protect the ocean,” said Taj, a sixth grade student at Salesian. “I live close to the ocean and love to go surfing, so I want to make sure it stays clean and safe.”

For their big project last year, students built a native plant demonstration garden on campus to showcase the benefit of native plants in the landscape. Native plants promote biodiversity, create a habitat for birds and animals, conserve water, reduce carbon pollution, are low-maintenance, require no pesticides/fertilizers, and fit into the larger landscape matrix making them a much smarter choice for coastal California homeowners.

“Our NOAA Ocean Guardian Schools have proven over and over again that by working hard to make changes on land, we can protect the health of our watersheds and ocean,” said Seaberry Nachbar, Ocean Guardian School Program Director.

“Salesian School is a great example of how we are showing students that they CAN make a difference. One native plant at a time.”

This year, they have set their goals even higher. The proposed Ocean Guardian project for the school year is to remove 1,500 square feet of invasive ice plant (Carpobrotus edulis) on a

Photo contributed.

Ocean saVers salesian students visit the monterey Bay where they study environmental protection first hand. an understory of native shrub and south-facing hillside, and plant in its place an oak woodland with Coast grass species. So far, all of the ice plant Live Oak trees (Quercus agrifolia) with has been removed and eleven of the

proposed twenty-two oak trees have been planted. This may seem like it is a big undertaking for little hands, but these students are up for the task.

“The Ocean Guardian School Program has empowered our students to take active roles in protecting their ocean and local environment through programs that allow them to get their hands dirty, work hard, and see tangible results,” said Salesian Principal, Sr. Carmen Botella. “We’re so grateful for NOAA’s support through the Ocean Guardian Schools Program and I’m looking forward to seeing the kids take on even more ambitious projects.”

Salesian Elementary and Junior High School serves students in TK8th grades. For information, please call 831-728-5518 or visit salesianschool.org.

Joey Silva is Salesian’s Ocean Guardian Project Coordintaor He also serves as a Docent at Point Lobos State Natural Reaerve

January 2019 • Growing Up In Santa Cruz 16

go green green tiPs

Make a “green resolution” for 2019 Have you considered which resolutions you want to take on for 2019?

You may have already made a few, but we’re encouraging you to resolve to make you daily choices a little more “Green” this year. Recently I’ve had a lot of folks tell me that they really want to be more eco-friendly or try to cut down the waste they create, but they just don’t know where to

By Meredith Keet, founder of the Zero shop ones made from bamboo or recycled start. It can be daunting, especially if plastic and refuse those given to you you aspire to do too much too at the dentist’s office. Make January quickly. So start small. Set yourself about switching to wash-cloths inup for success by choosing a managestead of using paper towels, or finish able first step such as, “We’ll stop off your bottled shampoo and condibuying plastic-wrap and switch to tioner then switch to bars. Resolve to beeswax wraps” or “I’ll buy coffee at stop using plastic bags completely the coffee shop only if I have my and switch to reusable containers. reusable mug with me”. Make your Maybe you feel ready to take on a future toothbrush purchases be only

“Buy Nothing Challenge” for a day, a week, or a month. Why not try your hand at composting? Did you know that food waste in our landfills is a major greenhouse gas emitter? Resolving to compost at home and keep your kitchen waste out of the landfill would make for a huge win in 2019!

Happy New Year to you and the planet!

green Living

By Suki Wessling This month: Question of the month: What do you do to save energy during the cold months?

With the rain coming in, lots of Santa Cruz families start to hunker down.

“Warm socks, extra blankets, windows closed,” says Charlotte Thornbrugh of her family’s approach. “Before we turn on heat, we make sure we’ve done all that.”

Taylor Darling of Santa Cruz Green Builders has some more specific advice about how to make your home more energy-efficient.

“People should start by trying to reduce their energy demand,” he explains.

“Here is a partial list, starting with the low hanging fruit, and progressing to more advanced projects.”

Replace old bulbs with LED bulbs that use 1/6 the energy. Most bulbs come in a nice warm 2,700 degree Kelvin light color, equivalent to old incandescent bulbs. LED’s are now very affordable and save a huge amount of energy. You don’t have to replace them for 10 years or more.

Replace old appliances that are not working well. New Energy Star appliances save a huge amount of energy over the long run. The largest energy users are the water heater, space heaters such as forced air heaters or gas fireplaces, and the fridge.

If your house is poorly insulated, add insulation in the attic and floor. If the walls are not insulated, it is a bit more difficult but still very much worth the investment, if insulation can be blown into the walls. This can be done by any local insulation company by drilling small holes in the walls for filling the wall cavities, and then patching and painting them.

Air seal around leaky doors and windows with new weather stripping. It can be tricky to find the right products but is important to keep cold air from pouring in.

17 Growing Up In Santa Cruz • January 2019

Replace single pane windows with well-insulated double pane windows.

Although some of those options are cheap, they do require an investment.

But here’s something to try for free: “Try to slightly change your habits,” Darling explains. “We all know to turn lights off when not in use. But even more effective is to try to take shorter showers (to use less hot water), and wear an extra layer of clothing and some cozy slippers so you can be comfortable with a slightly lower indoor temperature.

Heating water for showers and dishes and heating the air use the most energy in a home, by far.”

Changing your kids’ habits is another matter: “I tell my kids that being cold builds character!” says dad John Edward.

There’s also the solution proposed by mom Vanessa Ashford: “Cuddle ” Would you like to weigh in on how your family lives a green lifestyle? Do you have a local business that promotes green living?

Contact us!

Editor@growingupsc.com.

community

county scoop iMProveMents to our LibrAries

By Zach Friend, county supervisor

Libraries are a great place for families. From the children’s activities and books to the digital options - families often make our local libraries a regular stop.

But many of our local libraries are outdated. Now, for the first time in decades, significant upgrades and improvements are planned for libraries throughout the county. Let’s look at how we got here, what’s planned and how you can get involved in the process. how did we get here?

In 2013, the Santa Cruz Public Libraries engaged in a comprehensive facilities master planning process to assess the needs at each of their branches and found significant challenges in everything from structural problems to technological needs to meet modern demands. The Library Board at the time concluded that a local source a funding was needed to upgrade and improve local libraries including the Downtown Santa Cruz, Aptos, Felton, La Selva and Capitola branches.

In June of 2016 you approved Measure S, the Library Improvement Bond Measure, which is slated to generate $67 million for the library system.

portant accessibility (ADA) improvements. All of the projects will receive structural improvements, lighting, heating upgrades and will be brought up to current code.

The updated libraries will also receive significant interior improvements with Capitola, for example, including a community/meeting room with flexible furnishings, a kitchenette and a media wall, an expanded children’s area, a dedicated teen area, reader and study seating spread around the library, including an adult reading nook and a fireplace reading area, enhanced book and media collections and more.

In La Selva, there are discussions on how to improve the children’s area, provide for flexibility in the space for meetings and book clubs, increase natural lighting and airflow, expand the available seating for reading and studying and much more.

All of the libraries will have improved areas for children including more interactive options, digital op-

tions and programs planned. how can you get involved?

Your input into these designs and renovations are essential! You can get involved in many ways: from attending an upcoming community meeting, submitting comments to the project manager directly, joining or reaching out to the Friends of the Santa Cruz Public Libraries (and specifically the Friends groups associated with these branches) and more.

The Santa Cruz Public Libraries website - www.santacruzpl.org/measure_s/ - is maintaining updates on each project and how to get involved.

If you’d like to contact the project manager directly (with questions or suggestions on the Aptos or La Selva projects) here is the info: Damon Adlao, Project Manager, County of Santa Cruz, Dept. of Public Works 454-2343.

The Friends of the Aptos Library can be found at https://www.friendsofaptoslibrary.org.

If you want to get involved in the Capitola Library improvements you can connect with the Friends of the Capitola Library at https://capitolalibraryfriends.org - where you can see photos of the proposed design and help get that project over the finish line.

You can connect with the La Selva Library and other libraries in the county through the main Friends of the Santa Cruz Public Libraries site at: https://fscpl.org.

As always, I appreciate hearing your thoughts. If you have questions on these items feel free to call my office a 4542200.

what’s planned?

While improvements are planned throughout the system, here are some highlights for some of the branches.

First, the library projects in the county are in varying stages of the process. The Capitola Library and Felton Library, for example, have already held its groundbreaking and has general design plans available.

The La Selva Beach Library held a community meeting where initial design elements were shown and feedback on the design (interior and exterior) as well as community requests for how the space is allocated were received and considered. The Aptos Library is in the earliest stages and two preliminary community scoping meetings (where residents provided input into what they would like to see in the library) were held in the last two months.

All of the projects will include imJanuary 2019 • Growing Up In Santa Cruz 18

entertainment ALwAYs AMused

season Pass buying guide

By Erik Chalhoub January is here, and that means there are months of theme park adventures right around the corner.

That also means it’s time to break out the wallet again. Anybody who has visited a theme park knows it can be a very expensive hobby or time out with the family.

As the new year begins, and most parks are hibernating in the offseason, it’s a good time to plan out your potential theme park visits for 2019. Through the planning process, you are almost guaranteed to ask the question: Should I splurge for a season pass, or purchase separate tickets?

This month, I will attempt to answer a few common questions you may have when considering purchas-

ing a season pass. do I need a season pass?

If you ask yourself this question, answer it with another question: How many times will I be visiting a certain park?

On rough average, daily admission tickets are $40-$70 (with the notable exception being Disneyland, which is upwards of $100). Many season pass options across many different parks are about two times the price of a daily admission ticket.

In other words, if you plan on visiting one park at least twice in the year, then a season pass pays for itself after the second visit. The more times you visit, the cheaper each visit becomes.

Even if you plan on traveling to a park once a year, but will be staying for three days, a season pass is worth the price.

If you are only visiting once in the year, then a single admission ticket is the way to go.

While the Santa Cruz Beach Board-

walk is admission-free, it does charge about $3-$7 per ride. If you only plan on riding the Giant Dipper a few times this year, a season pass probably isn’t for you. But, if you will be a frequent visitor and ride multiple rides, then a season pass is a good option.

The Boardwalk will give a free $40 allrides wrist band for the guest of anyone who buys an $81.95 yearly pass by Jan. 6.

I want to buy a season pass! but when is the best time to do so?

Timing is everything. Most parks offer different perks throughout the year to people buying a season pass.

For example, a park may offer a bringa-friend-free ticket with the purchase of a season pass, or a free meal.

Certain times of the year, you can get a ridiculously low price on season passes. Often, this is right at the end of summer, typically when parks announce their new attractions for the following year.

Six Flags, I’ve found, has the best deal around, so good that it’s hard to believe it’s true. Around Labor Day, the chain offers a one-week “flash sale,” where season passes are $56 (for Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo). For this price, you also get admission to every Six Flags park in the nation, and free parking at every single one. It’s almost like they are paying you to visit the park.

The worst time to buy a pass is in July/August. Parks typically start selling the next year’s passes in September/October, so if you buy a pass in late summer, you really only get about two months’ worth out of it. This is because when next year’s passes go on sale, they also give you admission to the rest of the current year. gold, platinum, diamond, diamond elite, bronze? what type of season pass should I get?

There is no one-size-fits-all season pass. Most parks offer different layers of season passes, at different price points.

Some may give you early admission, while others will give you discounts on park merchandise and food.

It’s really up to you what kind of perks you want to get. At the very least, I highly recommend you purchase a season pass that has free parking included on it. With parking prices averaging $20 or more, paying for a more expensive pass is well worth

19 Growing Up In Santa Cruz • January 2019

Photo contributed. amusement deals it may seem like theme park prices are out of reach, but there are tricks to save money with yearly passes. it.

California’s Great America introduced a “Pre-K” pass recently, where children ages 3-5 can visit the park for free the entire year. This is a great concept that I hope more parks pick up.

Six Flags has been experimenting with a “membership” pass over the past few years, and other parks are starting to take notice, as it makes more sense on the business side of things. With a membership, you pay monthly installments, rather than paying the entire cost of the season pass all at once, giving parks a consistent stream of revenue. Some industry observers are predicting the season pass will fade out in favor of the membership option.

I hope this helps with your planning for the next year. Every parks’ website has a great list of benefits for each season pass option, so I recommend you study that as well before making a purchase.

community this theater group delivers Miracles every week

By Brad Kava

Every week a group of Santa Cruz performers meets to practice for a yearly show called “Miracles in Santa Cruz,” and if you’ve seen it or been a part of it, you know it truly is a miracle.

The performers have an array of so-called disabilities, but when they take the stage, they light it up as bright as any Hollywood star. A blind woman sings several songs and you wonder, how did she memorize all the words, while everyone else reads them off a karaoke screen? A guy does spot on impersonations of Batman and characters from Doctor Who that would make Jim Carey proud.

Founder Lizz Hodgin was inspired by her own son, Daniel, 24, who is shy, reserved and stutters off stage, but when he starts singing, he shocks everyone. “He’s loud and dynamic and there’s no stuttering or whispering. He’s a completely different person.”

Hodgin, 55, who also runs the local branch of the nationwide Musical Me music teaching program, used to drive Daniel to the Angels

on Stage group in San Jose, but in 2013, decided that Santa Cruz needs a similar positive performing group.

The response has been tremendous for the free program that meets weekly at Hope Services in Downtown Santa Cruz. Performers are mostly between 20-40, but anyone over 8 is invited.

One of the most beautiful things about it is the support the performers have for each other. They congratulate each other for taking the bold step onto the stage and every minute in their rehearsal is pure joy.

The company is looking for more participants and volunteers as it gears up for a show in May or June.

“A fantastic volunteer would be a local high school student who needs community service hours,” says Hodgin. Rehearsals are 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Mondays.

Photo by: Kevin Painchaud miraculOus JOY there are openings for actors and volunteers at the miracle santa cruz theater troupe, which meets monday evenings. For a slide show check www.growingupsc.com

“This is sharing what we love with a community we love,” says Hodgin. “It brings me a lot of joy.”

January 2019 • Growing Up In Santa Cruz 20

entertainment

Mall wonders

the MuseuM At the MALL is sAntA cruz’s hidden geM

By Patrice Keet

Growing Up in Santa Cruz has been a big fan of the Children’s Museum of Discovery for years and we’d always assumed it was run by some big corporation or was a franchise. Turns out, we were completely wrong. Although the exhibits in this 7,000-square foot store front near the food court at the Capitola Mall are as well-designed and compelling as those in bigger museums, like San Francisco’s Exploratorium, it’s really a locally-based nonprofit steered by a volunteer Board of Directors, Executive Director, Patrice Keet, 70, and a dedicated staff. And while it’s relatively small, there is enough there to keep both our 3 year old and our 11 year old occupied for hours. here’s patrice’s story: I was standing with my 2 and 4year-old granddaughters at the Bay Area Discovery Museum in Sausalito when I realized that Santa Cruz needed a children’s museum of its own. As a former Marriage Family Therapist with a teaching background I knew young families need all the support their community can provide and that most parents have precious little quality time with their children.

I pitched the idea of a large, safe space where the littlest learners could explore at their own pace and have hands-on engagement with science, the arts and fantasy play to my husband, Bob, and niece, Bonnie Keet.

They both jumped on the idea, and before I knew it we had a white board in front of us and were outlining the steps in forming a board of directors and becoming a nonprofit organization.

Fast forward to November 2014.

We knew we had to keep costs down in opening MOD, so we relied heavily on donated labor. My husband, a fulltime doctor, has kept himself busy for the past four years designing and building exhibits for the Museum. At last count he had created 14 exhibits with some new ones in the pipeline.

It’s been challenging since all exhibits have to meet rigorous safety and engagement standards. Some exhibits have been collaborations with our talented founding Board member, Jim Felich, whose talents are only exceeded by his enthusiasm for educating children through hands-on activities.

After two years of intensive planning, MOD opened its doors. Not knowing whether the idea would resonate with the community, we did double takes as huge lines formed outside our doors on opening day. By the end of the day we had had over 2,000 visitors. Since 21 Growing Up In Santa Cruz • January 2019

team. It’s not easy finding the right mix of an exhibit that is safe for all ages, interesting and engaging, educational and practical to build and maintain. Imagine at least 2,000 children per month doing their best to be exhibit testers.

Photo by: Kevin Painchaud eXplOra-mall-ium Visitors come from all over to learn and play at the children’s museum of discovery. maddox s. from auburn is building with the magnetic tiles. For a slide show about the museum, check www.growingupsc.com then we have welcomed over 220,000 visitors among them 1200 families who are current MOD members.

Each day in the Museum we hold story time and two free classes in art and science for our visitors. “My favorite thing about MOD is the Toddler workshops. I always learn something new” says one new mom of our Packard Foundation-funded Infant-Toddler workshops held twice a week.

We started out with a mission to be accessible to all young families.

Through the generosity of the Ed Newman Family Foundation, we have been able to offer funded memberships to families in need. Applications are on our website www.sccmod.org or interested families can come to our front desk and ask about Family Access memberships.

Children from all different backgrounds and circumstances learn to cooperate, share and play together while parents and grandparents get the chance to meet each other over the common experience of watching their children have fun. Grandparents are admitted free every Wednesday, and our floor staff love watching the smiles of joy and pride come over their faces as they watch their littles ones learn while they play.

MOD, however, is not confined to our bricks and mortar space but also takes its show on the road with its mobile van. We are a welcome presence at many fairs, elementary schools and

community events as well as at our free monthly Citizen Science program at the public library in downtown Santa Cruz. The addition of the Puppetry Institute at MOD around the corner from the Museum has brought creative classes for all ages in the art of puppet-making and many types of animation.

MOD is open weekdays and Saturdays from 10 – 5 and Sundays from 12 – 5 all year except major holidays.

Birthday parties and field trips are popular offerings. In addition to memberships, visitors can pay the daily admission fee of $8.00 for adults and $5.00 for children. Children under one year are free. Our Museum gift shop is always filled to the gills with educational and fun toys designed to foster creativity and discovery.

With exhibits and programs changing on a regular basis, MOD is the goto place for families with young children to laugh and learn together.

Families can look forward to our upcoming Eco-home exhibit focused on sustainable living and a new agriculture themed exhibit. the exhibits Exhibits start out as a burst of light in someone’s imagination. The idea gets thoroughly jostled around in our Exhibit Steering Committee, morphed and then prototyped on our exhibit floor. Some make it; some don’t and are tossed back to the design

MOD’s Augmented Reality sandbox allows children to learn about geology and manipulate the sandbox terrain while watching the results on an adjacent monitor. We saw this exhibit at another museum and thought it spoke to Santa Cruz.

There is no end of creative cooking in MOD’s authentic pizza parlor with child-sized prep and serving areas and a realistic pizza oven. We love to partner with local businesses and were very happy when Pizza My Heart helped make this exhibit a reality.

We’ve seen many air walls at other Museums; many of them serve as money catchers. Ours, the first exhibit built for MOD, catches scarves and takes them on a twisty, turn-filled ride delighting children when they reappear and float to the ground.

Our original Museum theme was exploring the wonders of Santa Cruz County, and camping was a natural for inclusion in MOD. Too rainy for a real camping trip, MOD’s realistic camping exhibit offers children the chance to practice time in the wild or cozy up with a book in our tent.

The lighted blocks are a favorite and kids build lighted castles and towers for hours. This exhibit was inspired by a set of LED Lego’s we saw at a Museum shop. We made a large base by combining sets, and it’s turned into a crowd-pleaser. Visitors can buy a smaller version in our Museum store.

The long car racing ramp and the large wooden train tables are original designs by Bob and have weathered the test of time.

MOD by the Numbers Since opening in November 2014, MOD has: Welcomed over 220,000 visitors Offered over 2,700 free daily, educational arts and science Provided over 750 funded memberships to families in need Reached over 3,000 elementary students through individual classroom presentations annually Formed collaborations with dozens of community organizations To see a slideshow of the museum’s best exhibits, check out www.growingupsc.com

around town... ! # "

gOOd cause spring Hill school sixth grader Odessa pearce came up with the idea for a craft fair to raise money for local charities and the whole school got behind her. they sold food, arts and crafts, jewelry, ornaments and more raising $1,330 for organizations including spca, save our shores, the Homeless garden project and casa.

spring Hill scHOOl second grader erik Huemer, 7, sold surprise pokemon characters with his dad, peter Huemer, who owns user Friendly computing.

Photos by: Brad Kava

January 2019 • Growing Up In Santa Cruz 22

services Baby sitting, yard work, painting, chores, garage sales and more. Offer your business services here in a business card size ad for $50 (for first time advertisers) also send your loved ones a Valentine’s day wish on our February Hearts page for $50. Contact Growing up at (831) 429-3444 or editor@growingupsc.co

23 Growing Up In Santa Cruz • January 2019

education

options in homeschooling uMbreLLA ProgrAMs shAre soMe of the burden

By Suki Wessling

January is Growing Up’s Independent Schools issue, and you can’t get much more independent than homeschooling. In California, any family can homeschool simply by declaring their home a private school on a state form. That’s a pretty low barrier to entry, but after the simple form come the complex challenges.

I refer to homeschooling as “the ultramarathon of parenting.” You’re not only raising children (a hard enough job) but also educating them and taking full responsibility for their social and emotional growth. Although many families succeed at homeschooling independently and love doing so, another way that Santa Cruz families homeschool is through umbrella programs, both private and public. what kind of umbrella is it?

Homeschooling programs offer a wide variety of support: Academic support by providing consulting teachers and classes Disability and resource support through testing and specialists Non-academic support with electives and field trips Financial support for tuition and materials Social support through family and student activities, clubs, and events Each program offers a different mix, so families can choose depending on their areas of need.

Carrie Adler chose the independent study program (ISP) at Davenport’s Pacific Elementary for her two children after homeschooling independently for a short time.

“It’s been a really perfect balance for our family,” Adler explains. “I felt overwhelmed by the thought I would have to cover all the academic bases by myself, and we felt socially isolated.”

Jasmin Gerer was one of the founding teachers of Alternative Family Education (AFE), knowing that she wanted to homeschool her children in a community.

“I knew I didn’t want to homeschool my children alone,” she remembers. “I knew I needed support, and I was hoping that as people came together, parents would learn about homeschooling from each other.”

Stephanie Tucker has done a little of everything for her three kids, from joining the board of the local nonprofit homeschooling co-op, the Discovery Learning Center (DLC), to getting financial support from the Ocean Grove homeschool charter program.

“I have three different flavors of homeschooling!” she jokes. “One size

does not fit all.”

Her family has benefited from the social aspects of programs like Pacific ISP, the ability to hire qualified specialists to work with her child with special needs through Ocean Grove, and the flexibility and creativity of working closely with parents at the DLC. private offers flexibility I was part of the group of parents who founded the Discovery Learning Center in 2011. Many of the founding families used public school programs, but we wanted to have a space where we could operate more freely. Stephie Tucker says the program is still going strong, though always morphing into new configurations as the needs of the families change.

“We want to be different from the places that are outsourcing learning,” she explains. “You drop your kid off, you pay a fairly hefty fee, you have professional teachers teaching curriculum that is standardized. We want to be a place where families who have energy to learn alongside their kids come to collaborate with other families.”

By its nature, the DLC remains unstandardized, and perhaps, therefore, closest to what homeschooling parents mean when they refer to “unschooling.”

“For parents, we get really isolated out there, driving to classes, therapies, teaching in our homes,” Tucker explains. “It’s a place for families and parents to connect more. We can be a homeschooling umbrella for people who belong to multiple communities.”

Another private option is part-time private school (usually called ‘Private School Satellite Programs’). Local private schools that offer this option include Monterey Coast Prep in Scotts Valley, where some students attend parttime in order to access academic and learning disability support. Private teachers also offer small homeschool support programs.

public offers structure Some of Santa Cruz County’s venerable old programs, such as AFE and Live Oak’s Ocean Alternative, were inspired by the alternative education movement of the 70’s. Charter schools are more recent, with Ocean Grove offering a decentralized approach with an emphasis on funding for approved vendors, PVUSD’s Pacific Charter School offering a more ISP-based approach, and Cabrillo-based Oasis giving an alternative option to high schoolers who want to access college classes.

One thing that they all have in common is that, as public schools, they are subject to educational standards, which the programs have to enforce to a variety of degrees.

“The neat thing about our program is that we can hit the state standards any way we want to,” explains Carrie Adler of Pacific ISP. “As a parent, I am teaching math and I need to cover the state standards, but I can bring in anything to do that, from hands-on to playing games.”

Adler explains that for her and a lot of parents, this offers peace of mind that their children will be able to integrate easily into full-time public school if they want to. “My eighth-grade daughter is thriving in [mainstream public] middle school and finding it very easy and not challenging enough!”

On the flip side, Stephie Tucker found that although Ocean Grove is working well for one child, another couldn’t quite get his needs served because of their emphasis on staying more rigidly within standards-based education. an emphasis on community Some of our local programs, including Davenport, Mountain School, AFE, the DLC, and Ocean Alternative, focus on creating a community of learners and families.

“The parents are very close and the kids are very close,” Adler says of Pacific ISP. “They play together—all ages, all genders. We haven’t really seen bullying.”

Tucker agrees but adds that sometimes you have to look around for the right fit.

“Any of the negative parts of public school, you can get in these programs,” she explains. “But you also have some consistency, so kids who need structure and routine benefit from seeing the same kids. They bond.”

A the DLC, she has created a teen group to serve as an anchor for kids who otherwise don’t meet with a consistent group with shared interests.

“One of the strengths of AFE is that all the teachers have personal homeschooling experience,” says Jasmin Gerer. “I think that makes a huge difference in terms of being able to understand what it means to be a homeschooling parent.”

With her children grown and graduated from UC Berkeley and Stanford, Gerer takes a long view on home education.

“Homeschooling is like parenting.

No one can tell you what it’s like until you’ve done it.”

I would second that. Our local homeschooling umbrellas helped move me from self-proclaimed “World’s Most Reluctant Homeschooler” to Happy Homeschooling Emeritus.

Homeschool Umbrella Programs and Part-time Programs in Santa Cruz alternative Family education, santa cruz, K-12 california Virtual academy, california, K-12 Oasis High school, aptos, 9-12 Ocean alternative school/Ocean Online, live Oak, K-8 Ocean grove charter school, san lorenzo Valley, K-12 pacific coast charter school, Watsonville, K-12 pacific elementary school, independent studies program, davenport, K-6 slVusd charter schools, Felton to Boulder creek, K-12 interested in learning more? the discovery learning center has an open house January 11 from 10 am - 2 pm. alternative Family education offers a Homeschool to college info evening on January 23.

Suki Wessling is a local writer, teacher, and former homeschooling mom. Find information about her books and classes at www.SukiWessling.com.

January 2019 • Growing Up In Santa Cruz 24

guide

independent schools, enrichment, and educational support Chartwell School 2511 numa Watson road, seaside 831.394.3468 www.chartwell.org Chartwell School, located in Seaside, educates students who are struggling in mainstream classroom settings; including those students with learning challenges like dyslexia. Chartwell considers each student’s unique needs to provide them with the academic skills, confidence, and creativity needed to meet the challenges of future educational endeavors. Students in grades 2–8 acquire academic skills as they are taught from a research-based curriculum which emphasizes multisensory phonemic awareness. For students in grades 9-12, the college prep program delivers projectbased learning and related field experiences. Students can also experience the 4-week summer program which emphasizes literacy and enrichment skills.

Expedition Academy Santa Cruz, grades 5-8 111 errett circle, santa cruz Website https://easc.education Expedition Academy Santa Cruz is an independent, non-sectarian middle school in Santa Cruz, CA. ExpeditionAcademy Santa Cruz believes a well rounded educational experience focused on discovering passions, learning how to learn, and developing 21st Century Skills like critical thinking, leadership, creativity and empathy. Our masterybased approach to learning puts students first giving them more guidance than direct instruction. We impel students into experiences that will drive their intellectual curiosity, develop compassion for their community, and give them an agile learning mindset to take on life's questions.

Gateway School, K-8 126 eucalyptus ave, santa cruz 831.423.0341 ext 302 www.gatewaysc.org Gateway School is an independent, co-ed day school in Santa Cruz, CA for students in grades Kindergarten through 8th. We are a community dedicated to nurturing academic excellence and intellectual curiosity, high character and personal compassion, and individual agency and engagement. We seek to prepare children to care for themselves, each other, and the world.

Good Shepherd Catholic School Preschool – 8th grade 2727 mattison lane, santa cruz 831.476.4000 www.gsschool.org Good Shepherd Catholic School offers a fully accredited academic program 25 Growing Up In Santa Cruz • January 2019

adventure and life skills, regional, national and international travel, mixedgrade buddy program, marine biology and oceanography on Catalina Island, visual and performing arts. For 40 years, MMS has offered students a quality education based on academic excellence, positive character development and creative self-expression. Preschool through high school; fully accredited by CAIS and WASC.

Photo contributed.

ViOlins WitH Heart the musical group the Fourtes will perform a donation concert for Jacob’s Heart at 4 p.m. Jan. 26 at the united methodist church, 250 california st. the all-violin ensemble will play works by mozart, Vivaldi, piazzola, lachner and more. for students in preschool through eighth grade. Welcoming children of all faiths for the last 55 years, our highly qualified faculty and staff provide a wellrounded curriculum that is project-based and faith driven. Spanish, art and life lab classes are part of the school’s curriculum with technology integrated throughout the school day. The school’s focus on community service gives the students numerous opportunities to learn and practice Catholic social teachings firsthand. Students may participate in the school’s highly successful interscholastic sports program including golf, flag football, basketball, lacrosse and soccer beginning at grade two. After-school care is available until 6:00 PM. Please join us at our annual Open House on Sunday, January 27 from 1-3PM. For more information, call 831.476.4000 or visit our website at www.gsschool.org.

Holy Cross School 150 emmet street, santa cruz 831.423.4447 www.holycsc.org For more than 155 years, Holy Cross School has provided children with a Catholic education grounded in strong academics and values. Our fully accredited program provides an academically rich experience in a faith-based community from preschool through eighth grade. Highly qualified and dynamic teachers engage students in meaningful learning opportunities. In addition to a core curriculum of math, language arts, science, social studies and Spanish, student programs include technology, music, Life Lab, P.E., competitive

sports, student leadership and public speaking. Holy Cross is committed to serving the community through service projects, and a hallmark of our school is the strong partnership with parents.

Please call (831) 423-4447 for a personal tour of our school!

Kirby School Grades 6 through 12 425 encinal st, santa cruz 831.423.0658 kirby.org Kirby School empowers students to shape their futures with confidence.

Our independent, non-sectarian middle and high school has been preparing students for college for 25 years. In classes averaging 12 students, teachers are responsive to each learner’s strengths and interests. Our rigorous academic and arts curriculum, intensive study paths, and inspiring faculty challenge each student based on their interests and readiness, rather than grade level. Kirby graduates go on to attend excellent four-year colleges and universities.

Mount Madonna School, Pre/K-12 491 summit road, mount madonna 408.847.2717 www.mountmadonnaschool.org At MMS we strive to prepare wellrounded human beings who not only get into and succeed in college, but learn to value collaboration, form meaningful relationships and engage with their local communities, nation and the world. Come see education through our students’ eyes: Montessoribased Pre/K program, 355-acre campus, science and technology labs, outdoor

Orchard School K-6 2288 trout gulch road, aptos 831.688.1074 www.orchardschoolaptos.org Orchard School is a small, independent school set on a 14-acre campus with climbing trees, meadows, an organic garden, farm animals and no concrete. We create magic together in this amazing setting with a down-to-earth educational philosophy that nourishes the developing child, while honoring and celebrating childhood. Small classes in core academics taught by specialized teachers provide hands-on, individualized instruction. Other weekly classes include drama, circus, art, music, Spanish, leadership training, and gardening.

All students participate in theater productions, help grow food for our hot lunch program and care for our animals.

Such opportunities provide life-shaping experiences that keep children excited and engaged about learning.

Pacific Coast Charter School 294 green Valley road, Watsonville 831.786.2180 www.pccs.pvusd.net Pacific Coast Charter School is a K12 Homeschool/Independent Studies charter within Pajaro Valley Unified School District. We offer a unique blend of home, community, and campus-based learning that gives students the opportunity to realize their potential through personalized educational plans which complement their diverse learning styles. Students work 20 hours a week on school work and attend optional on-site general and college prep classes or enrichment workshops 2-3 times per week. We provide credentialed teachers, free tutoring, and a wide variety of standards-based curriculum to assist your child to reach their fullest academic potential.

Pacific Elementary School 50 Ocean street, davenport 831-425-7002 www.pacificesd.org Pacific Elementary School in Davenport is a public school serving 130 students, preschool-sixth grade. Families throughout the county choose us for

guide our traditional classrooms or our hybrid independent study program with three classroom days and two home school days per week. All students participate in our award-winning garden and lunch programs in which students grow, cook, study, and eat healthy food. We emphasize experiential learning, including FOSS science, field trips, weekly music, media literacy, and drama. We maintain a gifted and talented education (GATE) program and offer opportunities for accelerated math advancement. To express interest, visit: www.pacificesd.org/newfamily-enroll Rose Blossom Preschool & Kindergarten lic #444403616 831.662.8458 www.roseblossom.org sharon rose, director Rose Blossom Preschool & Kindergarten offers preschool, pre-k, and kindergarten for children ages 2.5 6.5. Age-appropriate academic games and curriculum are interspersed with free-choice play time. Music, art, and creative play are included every day.

Compassionate Communication provides a foundation on which to build a respectful, cooperative community of children, teachers, and parents. The children thrive and are happy in the safe and peaceful environment. Programs include monthly musical performances by the children, an annual Trike-aThon, and community events. Our goal is for the children at Rose Blossom to enjoy learning and be prepared for their next school experiences.

Salesian Elementary & Junior High School TK-8 605 enos lane, corralitos 831.728.5518 info@salesianschool.org www.salesianschool.org Discover Salesian’s 40 Years of Excellence in Education! Our beautiful hillside campus, located just 5 miles from Hwy 1 & Freedom Blvd, has the spirit of a home where every child feels loved.

We are a school that fosters a passion for learning and supports the success of each student, a church rooted in the Catholic faith and welcoming families from all backgrounds, and a playground that builds character and moral depth.

Our dedicated credentialed teachers educate the whole child with outstanding academic, athletic, music and art curriculums. Endless opportunities for environmental education on our 50-acre campus have resulted in Salesian being recognized as an Ocean Guardian School for extensive student-led conservation work. Call for a personal tour! Open House: Sunday, January 27 from 12-3pm (lunch provided)

Santa Catalina School

1500 mark thomas drive monterey 831.655.9300 santacatalina.org Founded in 1950 and set against the scenic backdrop of Monterey, Santa Catalina School is an independent, Catholic, boarding and day school for girls in grades 9-12 with a diverse student body and strong local roots. We challenge students to achieve excellence in every arena, from rigorous academics—including a marine ecology program that takes advantage of access to Monterey Bay—to competitive athletics in 12 sports to an arts program with professional-quality facilities. In a warm community that values spirituality and service, Catalina girls become confident young women prepared to achieve greatness with grace.

Santa Cruz Montessori, Ages 18 months – 15 years main campus (primary and elementary) 6230 soquel drive, aptos 831.476.1646, enrollment: ext. 12 www.scms.org Winston campus (Young children’s community and Jr. High) 244 cabrillo college drive, soquel 831.476.1646, enrollment: ext. 12 www.scms.org Established in 1964, Santa Cruz Montessori is a non-profit school serving children 18 months to 15 years. Our beautiful classrooms and outdoor environments engage the children’s senses as they learn. Based on a deep understanding of child through adolescent development, our programs meet the interests and needs of our students, engaging and challenging them to do their best. We offer a supportive community of learners and an exciting Montessori curriculum including humanities, math, sciences and arts. Our mission: as a Montessori learning community, we inspire life-long learning and a more peaceful world by nurturing the natural development of the whole child.

SLVUSD Charter School 325 marion ave, Ben lomond 831-335-0932 www.charter.slvusd.org Have you considered more involvement in your child’s education? Our credentialed teachers form strong relationships with families to support personalized learning. Based on the ideal of the scholar-adventurer, the Nature Academy (6-8) offers a 5 day-a-week program to challenge students -— academically, physically, emotionally, and socially. We have six hybrid homeschool programs: Quail Hollow Integrated Arts (6-8), Coast Redwood MS (6-8), Coast Redwood HS (9-12), Quail Hollow Homeschool (K-5), Fall Creek (K-5), and Mountain Independent Study (K6). Classroom collaboration invites cre-

ativity, community, and environmental stewardship. One of our program options may be right for you! Join us!

Santa Cruz Waldorf School, Parent-Child Classes and Preschool-8th 2190 empire grade, santa cruz 831-425-0519 www.santacruzwaldorf.org enrollment@santacruzwaldorf.org Waldorf Education nourishes the whole human being in every phase of development. In Preschool and Kindergarten, children learn through supervised free play, protected from inappropriate intellectual demands. Elementary school is filled with rich and deep study of the whole of human experience, engaging head, heart, and hands – math, science, and reading, fully integrated with artistic development and bodily engagement through crafts and movement. Waldorf graduates love to learn and are prepared for whatever is to come next. They thrive on solving problems. Colleges and universities are now seeking them out for their promise, for the whole human beings that they are. Visit our campus, which borders UCSC and is touched by redwoods.

Spring Hill School 250 california street, santa cruz 831.427.2641 www.springhillschool.org Spring Hill School, Pre-K through 6th grade, is a community of educators and families who inspire children’s curiosity and love of learning. This school year marks our 40th anniversary of providing excellence through our strong and unique values! We are known for small classes, teachers with advanced education and accelerated curriculum through personalized education. Using a Design Thinking approach, SHS students learn and create at the highest levels, and collaborate within a community of friends. Our whole-child curriculum includes Spanish, social-emotional learning, music, performing arts, physical education, design lab, garden, and more. Call or email to schedule a individualized tour.

Tara Redwood School redwood campus – 5810 prescott road, soquel Village campus – 4746 soquel ave, soquel 831.462.9632 and 831.475.0201 www.tararedwoodschool.org Tara Redwood School uses a blend of Montessori and Creating Compassionate Cultures (CCC) methodologies to offer children a strong academic foundation, rich in the sciences and arts.

We provide a stimulating learning experience through our integrated, multidisciplinary approach to learning about the world around us and within us. Our global curriculum follows a framework

known as the 7 Steps to Knowledge, Strength and Compassion developed over 30 years at Tara Redwood School.

It provides a unique social emotional component that nurtures the children’s innate positive qualities while empowering them to make a positive impact on the world through their thoughts and actions. Preschool – 6th Grade enrichment The Bookakery www.BookakeryBoxes.com Foster a love of reading and baking in your kids with Bookakery Boxes.

Each monthly box comes with a hardback picture book, kid-friendly recipe card, baking tool/item and an activity, all built around a theme of the month.

Perfect for kids ages 3-7. Available as month-to-month, or in 3, 6, and 12 month subscriptions.

Music Together/MusicalMe, Inc. santa cruz county and santa clara county 831.438.3514 www.musicalme.com Offering three different programs: Music Together: A music program for children birth to age 6—and the grownups who love them, enhancing children’s learning in multiple domains (mentally, physically, socially, etc.), increasing family engagement and adding richly to each family’s “toolbox”. Siblings are welcome, especially infants who may attend free if they are 8 months or under.

Canta y Baila ConmigoTM: A unique curriculum for young children (ages Birth to 5 years) with dual, complementary goals of music education and language immersion. Designed for beginners and native speakers alike, CyBC creates a playful, interactive atmosphere where language learning is integrated naturally and organically in the musical experience.

Rhythm Kids®: A drumming, music, and movement, program for children ages 4–8 years. Classes naturally support children’s rhythm development and help them prepare for formal music lessons.

Santa Cruz Junior Golf info@santacruzjuniorgolf.org santacruzjuniorgolf.org For the last 26 years, Santa Cruz Junior Golf has been hosting affordable golf tournaments for kids between the ages of 6 and 18. It is the mission of SCJG to provide junior golfers with valuable skills which last a lifetime. The rules and etiquette of golf are essential, but as important are other values like sportsmanship, integrity, honesty, respect, perseverance, and of course fun! Please consider joining us for another year of great junior tournament golf.

January 2019 • Growing Up In Santa Cruz 26

27 Growing Up In Santa Cruz • January 2019

JANuArY 2019

cALendAr

Photo by: Darren Nix COME BACK SNAP! Krazy George (as Mother Ginger) summons gingersnap Hazel Hansen, 4, back home as she merrily skips across the stage in the Santa Cruz City Ballet's production of the Nutcracker on Dec. 16th at Cabrillo's Crocker Theater. She was doing a different kind of wave, to her family in the audience. tuesday, january 1 All Santa Cruz Public Libraries Closed Bird Walk 8am. Henry Cowell State Park. Join us for a morning avian stroll to hear and see some of the amazing birds that reside in our park. Meet at the campground parking lot off Graham Hill Road. For more information, call 335-7077.

Wilder Ridge Loop 9am. Wilder Ranch. On this 7-mile challenging hike, we’ll explore the natural and cultural history of the upper hills of Wilder Ranch. For more information, call 426-0505.

Fall Creek Hike 9am. Henry Cowell State Park.

Hike through a young, 100 year old forest to examine evidence of the logging history and discover how the Bay Area was built on this 4-mile, 4-hour hike. Meet at the Fall Creek parking lot, approximately 0.5 mile up Felton Empire Road from the Highway 9 Intersection in Felton. For more information, call 335-7077.

Buzzard’s Roost Hike 9am. Big Basin State Park.

Join docents Kathy Willott and Glenn Joy for a 5-mile hike to Buzzard’s Roost. Hikers should be able to do a steady uphill grade for 2.5 miles (elevation gain about 1,200 ft.). Meet at park headquarters. For more information, call 338-8883 UCSC Arboretum: Community Day 9am-5pm.

UCSC Arboretum. 1st Tuesday. The Arboretum is open without charge to visitors.

Sempervirens Falls Hike 10am. Big Basin State Park. Join us on a 4-mile hike to visit Sempervirens Falls, old-growth redwoods, Ohlone grinding rocks, the birthplace of Big Basin. Meet at park headquarters. For more information, call (338-8883

28 Growing Up In Santa Cruz • January 2019

Sandhills to Observation Deck 10am-12:30pm.

Henry Cowell State Park. Experience the great biodiversity of Henry Cowell on this easy 3-mile.

Meet at the campground parking lot off Graham Hill Road. For more information, call 335-7077.

New Parents with Babies 3 Weeks to 4 Months 10am-11:30am. Ongoing Tuesdays. Sutter Room at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center. Classes are drop-in (no pre-reg required) donations accepted (no required fee). 477-2229. 2900 Chanticleer Ave. History Under the Trees 10am-1pm. Nisene Marks State Park. Delve into forest history—and prehistory—with a 4-mile, 3-hour walk to ghost towns and fossils deep in a redwood forest. Meet at George’s picnic area next to the steel bridge before the winter gate. For more information, call 685-6444.

Playbies Parenting Infant/Toddler Helpful Happy Hour 10am-1pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Coffee Lounge in Temple Beth El Aptos. Join us to play, socialize and talk babies. Have baby worries or parenting dilemmas?Get the answers you need to be a confident, joyful parent.. Bring vegetarian snacks to share and all your parenting struggles and triumphs. Contact Shira at info@playbies.com or facebook.com/Playbies for more information. $10/family.

Downtown Tuesdays 10am-10pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Downtown Santa Cruz. Featuring specials all day throughout Downtown – come relax and meet your friends in your Downtown.

Observation Deck Loop Hike 11am. Henry Cowell State Park. Enjoy a panoramic view while eating lunch with the acorn woodpeckers before returning to the redwoods on this 4.5-mile, 3.5hour hike. Meet at the visitor center. For more information, please call 335-7077.

Redwood Loop to Cable Car Beach 12pm1:30pm. Henry Cowell State Park. Hear the story of the redwoods and learn what makes the Sequoia sempervirens, the tallest tree in the world.

1.5 mile hike.Meet at the visitor center. For more information, call 335-7077.

Concrete Ship History Walk 11am-12pm. Seacliff State Park. Learn about Seacliff State Beach and its fascinating history on this 1-mile stroll to the Aptos Creek Bridge and back. Get the lowdown on the Concrete Ship, great storms from 1889 to present, “The Madman of Seacliff.”

Meet on the deck of the visitor center.

Tumble-On-Tuesdays at JuneBug’s Gym 12pm3pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Ages walking to 7 years.

Parents may leave children over 3 yrs. Call 464BUGS (2847) to sign up or drop by at 3910 Portola Dr. Ste. 2 & 3 Pleasure Point-Santa Cruz. www.junebugsgym

Sandhills, the New Acquisition 11am-1pm.

Henry Cowell State Park. See the hidden treasures and unique geology, plants, and animals of an amazing and fragile ecosystem on this 3 mile hike. Meet at the probation center parking lot at 3650 Graham Hill Road. Rain cancels. For more information, please call 335-7077.

Old Cove Landing Trail 11am-1pm. Wilder Ranch State Park. On this 2.5 mile family friendly walk, we’ll explore the plants, animals, and geology of our coastal bluffs. Meet at the interpretive center. For more information, please call 426-0505.

Discover Big Basin Redwoods Hike 12pm. Big Basin State Park. Explore the Big Basin’s less travelled backcountry with Docent Barry Grimm.

Based on group size, experience level, and weather conditions, we’ll choose from the many trails that explore our most scenic areas. Meet at park headquarters. For more information, call 338-8883.

Cancer Support Group 12:30pm-2pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. WomenCARE’s Office. Open to newly diagnosed women throughout the course of their treatment and up to 4-6 months post-treatment.

Pre-registration (office intake and a conversation with the group facilitator) is required. Please call 831-457-2273.

Redwood Grove Loop Walk 1pm-2:30pm. Big Basin State Park. How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? Stroller and wheelchair accessible.. Meet at park headquarters. For more information, call 338-8883.

Sandhills Hike 1pm-3pm. Henry Cowell State Park. We will walk under tall oaks, knobcone pines, and alongside manzanita and other flora thriving in the Sandhills habitat and see courageous new growth emerging from the ashes of a recent prescribed burn. 3 mile hike.. Meet at the campground parking lot off Graham Hill Road.

For more information, call 335-7077.

Habitat Hike 2pm-3pm. Natural Bridges State Park. Explore the diversity of habitats and life in the park on this 0.5-mile walk. Bring water. Meet at the visitor center. For more information, call 423-4609 ext. 8.

JANuArY 2019 Redwoods, Evolution, and the Changing Climate 2pm-3:30pm. Henry Cowell State Park. As we wander past trees that are millennia old, we will learn about their evolution and relationship to our changing climate on this 1 mile hike. Meet at the visitor center. For more information, 3357077.

Sunset Stroll 2pm-4pm. New Brighton State Beach. Join us for a low tide and sunset stroll on a 2-mile round trip adventure from New Brighton State Beach to Capitola. Walking this stretch of beach just before sunset is rarely possible, so you won’t want to miss it!. Meet on the beach below day use parking lot. For more information, 685-6444.

Youth Coalition Meeting 5pm-6:30pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Resource Center for Non-Violence.

Ages 13-21. Get involved, get educated & become a community youth leader. Youth-designed & led group. Call first. 515 Broadway, SC. 4275066 Family and Friends Cancer Support Group 5:30pm-7pm. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month. WomenCARE’s Office. Open to friends and loved ones of people with cancer. Pre-registration (office intake and a conversation with the group facilitator) is required. 457-2273 Grupo de apoyo femenino del superviviente 6pm-7:30pm. Martes en curso. En Espanol.

Monarch Services ~ Servicios Monarca ofrece un espacio seguro y de apoyo. Gratis. Actividades de cuidado de niños proporcionadas. 1685 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz. 425-4030. 24hr: 888 900-4232. Wcs-ddm.org Birth Center Tour 6:30pm. Ongoing Tuesdays.

Call to register. Dominican Hospital, 1555 Soquel Dr, SC. 462-7709 Divorced Fathers Network 7:30-8:30pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Aptos La Selva Fire Dept. DFN provides non-adversarial techniques to achieve healthy co-parenting through a support group network. 6934 Soquel Dr. 234-5578 wednesday, january 2 All Together Now! 9am-11am, Ongoing Wednesdays. Live Oak Family Resource Center. Share the joys and challenges of parenting as we grow and learn together. Drop-in classes in English for kids 0-5 years old. Recommended fee of $3-$7 for those able to pay. 1740 17th Ave. 476-7284.

Latch Clinic 9am-11am. Ongoing Wednesdays.

Dominican Rehab Lactation office 610 Frederick St. Receive personalized, one-on-one breastfeeding support from an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. A Baby Weigh® scale is also available.

Bookshop Santa Cruz Story Time 10am. Ongoing Wednesdays. Bookshop invites any toddler or pre-school age children to listen to stories read by Mamoura Slike. 460-3251 Triple P @ Together in the Park (drop-in playgroup) 10:30am-12pm. Ongoing Wednesdays.

Felton Covered Bridge Park, corner of Graham Hill Rd and Mt. Hermon Rd (across from Safeway). Parent education is offered as part of the Together in the Park drop-in playgroup led by Mountain Community Resources every Wednesday, April through October. Triple P Positive Parenting tip sheets are covered with all participants or in brief, one-on-one consultations. Offered in English or Spanish by Rosa Reyes, Community Bridges – Mountain Community Resources. All children and parents/caregivers are welcome.

Light snacks will be provided.

What If Wednesday 11am-12pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. A combination of science and art that prompts the wonder and discovery of “what if?” Example “ we add salt to watercolor, or “what if” vegetable oil is put of the paper first, with the watercolor mix with it? Wednesday is when weird wacky science

becomes wonderfully wild while art and science are brought together.

New Moms Support Group 11:30am-1pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Free for babies 0-6 months old and their moms to discuss common concerns with other new moms. Dominican Rehab Yoga/Pilates Room. 610 Frederick St. El Patio De Mi Casa 12pm-2pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Live Oak Family Resource Center.

Inspiring playgroups for moms, dads, caregivers and children 0-5 years old. Instructor: Yolanda Provoste-Fuentes. Recommended fee of $3-$7 for those able to pay. Drop-in. Classes facilitated in Spanish. 1740 17th Ave, Santa Cruz. 476-7284

Sensory Art with Brooke 3pm-4pm. Ongoing Thursdays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. Each week Sensory Art encourages children to apply all their senses in art projects.

Art Walk 5:30pm-8pm. 1st Thursday. Capitola Mall (Macy’s Wing). Local artists, a featured charity every month and live entertainment. Support your local artists!

Entre Nosotras 6pm-8pm. 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month. WomenCARE’s Watsonville Office. Open to Spanish-speaking women with all kinds of cancer. Groups are led in Spanish and meet at our Watsonville office. Please call 831761-3973 for details.

Baby Happy Hour at JuneBug’s Gym!! 12:15pm1:15pm. Ongoing Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays. Explore the world of early motor skill development and support visual and auditory development through ramps, rocker balls, parachute play, music, and more. $12 drop in $10 with Inchworm punch card.

Citizen Science 6:30pm-8pm. 1st Thursday.

Downtown Library. SCPL is partnering with the Children’s Museum of Discovery (MOD), UCSC and The Natural History Museum to present a science series for adults and teens.

Genealogical Society Lecture Series 1pm-3pm.

1st Wednesday. Downtown Library. Learn about a variety of resources, strategies, and tools in the field of family research.

Free First Friday 10am-10pm. Santa Cruz MAH. Explore three floors of exhibitions for free and dig into a hands-on activity that’s great for all ages

Nature Art with Sue 3pm-4pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. Sue introduces new projects that explore art in nature and nature in art. The classes are aligned to STEAM objectives (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) objectives.

friday, january 4

Redwood Grove Loop Walk 11am & 2pm. Ongoing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Big Basin State Park. Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent oldgrowth redwood forest. Hwy 236 at 21600 Big Basin Way. 338-8883.

Orchard Circus Arts Class 3:30pm-4:30pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Orchard School. Includes juggling, unicycling, stilt walking, and more with Rock Lerum. Drop-in basis. Please contact the school at 688-1074, or www.orchardschoolaptos.org for more info.

Infant/Toddler Workshop 11am-11:45am. Ongoing Fridays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. Early Childhood Exploration (0-3). Come and enjoy this fun exploration-based program for infant and toddlers! Your young child will have the opportunity to engage in fascinating explorations of light and shadows. Your child will have the opportunity to explore open-ended materials in a safe space while developing skills and exploring cognitive concepts such as cause and effect.

Female Survivor Support Group 6pm-7:30pm.

Ongoing Wednesdays. Monarch Services. Safe, supportive space for survivors of sexual assault or domestic violence. Childcare provided.1685 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz. 425-4030. 24hr: 888 900-4232. Wcs-ddm.org

Free First Friday 11am-4pm. 1st Friday. Natural History Museum. Enjoy the Museum for FREE with your family on the first Friday of every month. Enjoy our intertidal touch pool and large-screen microscope. PLUS get a sneak-peek at our annual Art of Nature exhibit.

Foster Parent Orientation Meeting 6pm-8pm.

Live Oak Family Resource Center. There is a need for loving, stable families to care for children of all age groups all over Santa Cruz County.

Be an adoptive or foster parent to a child, adolescent or teen. 1740 17th Ave., Santa Cruz. For information or to sign up for an orientation, please go to www.fostercare4kids.com or call 345-2700.

Sack Puppet Making 11:45am-12:15pm. Ongoing Fridays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. Join Puppet Master, Ricki Vincent and his staff and create imagination-inspired Sack Puppets.

Family Fun Night 3pm-5pm. 1st Wednesday.

Capitola Mall.

thursday, january 3 Food Addicts Anonymous Meeting 9am. Ongoing Thursdays. Trinity Presbyterian Church. A 12-step group that helps people not eat addictively one day at a time. There are no fees. www.foodaddicts.com. 420 Melrose. Entrance is through the yellow gate to the library.

New Parents with Babies 4 Months to 9 Months 10am-11:30am. Ongoing Thursdays. Sutter Room at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center.

Classes are drop-in (no pre-reg required). 4772229.

Creative Exploration 12pm-1pm. Ongoing Thursdays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. Children may let their natural curiosity flow as they explore how art and science materials work together. Some of the best child projects are related to some or all of STEAM: science, technology, engineering, art and math.

Baby Happy Hour at JuneBug’s Gym!! 12:15pm1:15pm. Ongoing Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays. See Jan 2.

Fun n’ Tumble Open Gym 12pm-3pm. Ongoing Fridays. JuneBugs Gym. Ages: walking to 7 years.

Parents may leave children over 3 yrs. Parents can drop off their children for 1, 2 or all 3 hours for tumbling fun! Call 464-BUGS (2847) to sign up or drop by at 3910 Portola Dr. Ste. 2 & 3 Pleasure Point-Santa Cruz. www.junebugsgym

Cabrillo Youth Strings Chamber Music Program 4:15pm-5:30pm. Ongoing Fridays. Cabrillo VAPA5137 and VAPA5141. Classes are offered in violin, viola, and cello for ages 7 to 18. Students must provide their own instruments. (831) 479-6101. saturday, january 5 Pathways Through our Parks: New Art Exhibit Through January 6. Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History. Featuring over 30 paintings by local artist Ann Thiermann, all of which showcase the many paths and waterways that flow throughout Santa Cruz’s parks, open spaces and beaches.

Aptos Farmers Market 8am-12pm. Ongoing Saturdays. Cabrillo College. Featuring more than 90 vendors, supplying a variety of fresh produce, prepared goods, items for the home. Live music, coffee, fresh baked goods.

UCSC Garden Tour 9am. 1st Saturday. UCSC Arboretum. Sometimes you will see New Zealand, South Africa, or California and Australia. Sometimes you might see combinations of several gardens or the developing World Conifer Collection or Rare Fruit Garden. Requires admission to the Arboretum.

Open Gym 9am-12 pm. Ongoing Saturdays.

JuneBug’s Gym. Ages walking to 8 years old (or 80 lbs.). Parents can drop off for up to 3 hours for tumbling fun! Call 464-BUGS (2847) to sign up or drop by at 3910 Portola Dr. Ste. 2 & 3, Pleasure Point-Santa Cruz. www.junebugsgym.com Scotts Valley Farmer’s Market 9am-1pm. Ongoing Saturdays. SV Community Center parking lot. Join the SV Public Library for story time, enjoy some live music, get your face painted and get fresh food.

Westside Farmers Market 9am-1pm. Ongoing Saturdays. Mission St. Ext. and Western Dr. Saturdays in the Soil 10am-12pm. Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History. Help us keep our Garden Learning Center thriving for visitors to learn from! Join us as a volunteer to learn about caring for native plants while helping with general landscaping, occasional watering, weeding, and replanting. All ages are welcome and no experience necessary.

Redwood Grove Loop Walk 11am & 2pm. Ongoing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Big Basin State Park. See Jan 4.

Old Growth Redwood Tours 11am. Ongoing Saturdays. Henry Cowell State Park. Are there different kinds of redwoods? How do coastal redwoods grow to become the tallest organisms on earth? Why are there so few old growth trees left? How important are banana slugs to the redwood ecosystems?

Make and Explore at the Capitola Mall 2pm4pm. Ongoing Fridays. Children’s MOD. We will be in their Tinkerlab room. The program is free, and most suitable for 6-12 year olds. Parents will need to remain available throughout the program, and will be helping children under 8. We provide materials to explore their creativity, build things, make art and make discoveries.

sunday, january 6

Watsonville Farmers Market 2pm-7pm. Ongoing Fridays. Downtown Watsonville Plaza. This market is in the heart of the famously bountiful Pajaro Valley. Peaceful and family-oriented, the Hispanic heritage of this community gives this market a “mercado” feel. You’ll find a large variety of Latin American treats, including some lesser known dishes such as pambasos, huarache and chicharrones.

Low Impact Stretching Exercise Class 8:30am9:30am. Ongoing Sundays. Health Education Center 700 South Green Valley Road, Watsonville. Promotes circulation. Decreases muscle stiffness. Improves posture. Helps manage or reduce stress. Improves balance. Increases range of motion. Instructor—Ace Martinez, a PA with over 16 years of Weight and Balance Training.

352-7993.

Art and Science at the MOD 3pm-4pm. Ongoing Fridays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. Each week our staff combines the worlds of art and science through fun projects. Come and see what fun activity is offered today.

Live Oak Farmers Market 9am-1pm. Ongoing Sundays. 15th and Eastcliff Dr.

Open Art at the MOD 1pm-2pm. Ongoing Saturdays and Sundays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. There is no coloring within the lines during Open Art. We let the children’s imaginations soar through art projects.

January 2019 • Growing Up In Santa Cruz 29

JANuArY 2019

YOur MOvE Gwen Nifield eyeing her next move at he Montessori Chess Club.

Overeaters Anonymous 9:05am-10:15am. Ongoing Sundays. Sutter Maternity & Surgical Center. Come join us for a friendly, FREE, 12-Step support group with the solution. Teens and adults welcome. Includes compulsive overeating, anorexia and bulimia. 2900 Chanticleer Ave 4297906 santacruzoa.org Redwood Grove Loop Walk 11am & 2pm. Ongoing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Big Basin State Park. See Jan 4.

Open Art at the MOD 1pm-2pm. Ongoing Saturdays and Sundays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 5.

Bachata by the Sea 1pm-3pm (picnic) 3pm-4pm (class) 4pm-7pm (dancing). Ongoing Sundays.

106 Beach St. Free Bachata dance class, followed by 3 hours of non-stop social dancing! Before the dancing starts we will do a fun Beach Picnic.

Watsonville Nature Walks 1:30pm. Ongoing Sundays. Watsonville Nature Center (30 Harkins Slough Road). Come experience the incredible bird life that the Wetlands of Watsonville have to offer. The wetland system of sloughs and their uplands offer breeding and year-round habitat for over 220 species of shorebirds, waterfowl, raptors and song birds.

Depression-Anxiety Recovery Program Orientation 3pm. 700 South Green Valley Road. Free 8week series. This is a comprehensive Health and Educational Lifestyle Program for general information only. Attendees will learn how to make lifestyle changes that will help remove the negative symptoms of depression and anxiety. Structured Support Groups will be available. There are resource materials available for order if one chooses. Call/Text Trish at 325.7993. Or, Email: ReversingNegativity@yahoo.com to learn more and reserve a spot.

Tour of the UCSC Farm 2pm-3:30pm. 1st Sunday. UCSC Hay Barn. Enjoy a free tour of the

30 Growing Up In Santa Cruz • January 2019

UCSC Farm.

Nar-Anon Family Groups 6:30pm-8:00pm. Ongoing Sundays. Sutter Hospital. A 12-step program/support group for friends and families who have been affected by the addiction or drug problem of another. Meets in Sutter Room. 2900 Chanticleer Avenue. Newcomers, please come 15 minutes early to get acquainted. monday, january 7 Toddler Time 10am. Ongoing Mondays. Live Oak Library. Weekly program for families with children ages 0-3 years old. Join us for early literacy practices involving music, movement, stories, rhymes and more for your child and you.

Preschool Storytime 10am. Ongoing Mondays.

Garfield Park Library. We’ll read books, sing songs and make a simple craft! Ages 3-6.

Make Art Monday 11am-12pm; 3pm-4pm. Ongoing Mondays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. Each session, Doris introduces new projects that are educational and fun. All projects incorporate aspects of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Mathematics). Explore the creative human expression of objects through the use of varied artistic mediums. Children will paint, sketch, sculpt, design and assemble as they make new discoveries.

Recurrent, or Metastatic cancer. Pre-registration (office intake and a conversation with the group facilitator) is required. Please call 457-2273 to provide us with necessary client information.

Word Church 4pm-8pm. Ongoing Mondays.

Santa Cruz MAH. A community of local poets who recognize and value the power of spoken word as a means of healing, growing, and empowering ourselves and each other. We gather to write together in an open writing workshop from 4-5pm, then host an open mic followed by a featured poet starting at 5:30pm.

Cuéntame un Cuento 5:30pm. Ongoing Mondays. Live Oak Library. Acompáñanos para una hora de cuentos, actividades y canciones en español. Este programa es para niños de 0-8 y sus familias. tuesday, january 8 Toddler Time 10am. Ongoing Tuesdays. Branciforte Library. See Jan 7.

New Parents with Babies 3 Weeks to 4 Months 10am-11:30am. Ongoing Tuesdays. Sutter Room at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center.

See Jan 1.

Playbies Parenting Infant/Toddler Helpful Happy Hour 10am-1pm. Ongoing Tuesdays.

Coffee Lounge in Temple Beth El Aptos. See Jan 1.

Live Oak Knitters 11:15am-1pm. Live Oak Library. Ongoing Mondays. Get together with other knitters to knit, chat, and make new friends. No registration required.

Downtown Tuesdays 10am-10pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Downtown Santa Cruz. See Jan 1.

Baby Happy Hour at JuneBug’s Gym!!

12:15pm-1:15pm. Ongoing Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays. See Jan 2.

Preschool Storytime 10:30am. Ongoing Tuesdays. La Selva Beach Library and Scotts Valley Library. See Jan 7.

ARM-in-ARM Cancer Support Group 12:30pm-2pm. Ongoing Mondays. WomenCARE Office. Open to women with Advanced,

Tumble-On-Tuesdays at JuneBug’s Gym 12pm3pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. See Jan 1.

Photo by: Kevin Painchaud

Cancer Support Group 12:30pm-2pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. WomenCARE’s Office. See Jan 1.

January Jumpstart: 4 Weeks to Healthier Eating: Start Your Day with Protein 1pm-2pm. Westside New Leaf. Healthy habits developed early last a lifetime and breakfast is one of the best habits to establish. Eaten regularly, a protein-rich breakfast can be life changing! Learn how to incorporate protein-rich foods into your breakfast routine.

Get tips for meals outside the breakfast box. Register for free at the events section of the New Leaf Santa Cruz website.

Triple P Seminar: The Power of Positive Parenting (for CalWORKs participants) 1pm-3pm.

Cabrillo College, 6500 Soquel Drive, Room 913.

Triple P Seminars offer general parenting tips that can be used in a wide range of situations.

This seminar is the first in a series of three for families with children birth – 12 years old. You can attend one, two or all three of the seminars in the series.

The Power of Positive Parenting provides an introduction to the Triple P program and positive parenting strategies. Attend this free seminar to learn how to: Provide positive learning environments for children; Use assertive discipline; Have realistic expectations and take care of yourself.

This Triple P Seminar is FREE and open to CalWORKs participants. Contact your Employment and Training Specialist if you plan on attending. Presented in English by: Stella Lauerman, Triple P practitioner Lego and Duplo Fun 1:30pm-3:30pm.Ongoing Tuesdays. Branciforte Library. Build, learn and play (agres 3+).

JANuArY 2019 DIY Crafts 2:30pm-4pm. Ongoing Tuesdays.

Downtown Library. Time to get crafty. A Do-ItYourself craft will be ready and waiting for families, independent-minded kids! Children 8 years old and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Lego Club 3:30pm-5pm. Ongoing Tuesdays.

Boulder Creek Library. Directed LEGO construction for kids 7 and older. Each week we will construct models based on a common theme.

Free Rhythm Kids® demo classes hosted by MusicalMe, Inc. 4pm. 3709 Portola Dr (RK1). Students explore rhythm by playing with music from around the world. Music Together®–trained teachers lead dynamic classroom activities designed especially for early elementary students/preschoolers, and the discovery continues at home with the interactive Rhythm Kids videos, easily viewable on our app. Rhythm Kids Level 1 (RK1) is the next musical step for your preschool child (ages 4–5) with a parent or caregiver. Rhythm Kids Level 2 (RK2) is an exciting music, movement, and drumming class for children in Kindergarten through second grade (ages 5 through 8).

Word Church 4pm-8pm. Ongoing Mondays.

Santa Cruz MAH. See Jan 1.

Youth Coalition Meeting 5pm-6:30pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Resource Center for Non-Violence. See Jan 1.

Grupo de apoyo femenino del superviviente 6pm-7:30pm. Martes en curso. En Espanol.

Monarch Services. Ver Jan 1.

Birth Center Tour 6:30pm. Ongoing Tuesdays.

Dominican Hospital. See Jan 1.

Depression-Anxiety Recovery Program Orientation 6:30pm. 700 South Green Valley Road. See Jan 6.

Divorced Fathers Network 7:30-8:30pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Aptos La Selva Fire Dept.

See Jan 1. wednesday, january 9 All Together Now! 9am-11am, Ongoing Wednesdays. Live Oak Family Resource Center.

See Jan 2.

Baby Happy Hour at JuneBug’s Gym!!

12:15pm-1:15pm. Ongoing Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays. See Jan 2.

Baby Happy Hour at JuneBug’s Gym!!

12:15pm-1:15pm. Ongoing Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays. See Jan 2.

Dance for Parkinson’s 1pm. Ongoing Wednesdays except the first Wednesday of the month.

Motion Pacific Dance. Classes are appropriate for anyone with Parkinson’s no matter how advanced. No Dance Experience is Required. Free.

Triple P Seminar: Raising Confident, Competent Children (for CalWORKs participants) 1pm3pm. Cabrillo College, 6500 Soquel Drive, Room 913. Triple P Seminars offer general parenting tips that can be used in a wide range of situations. This seminar is the second in a series of three for families with children birth – 12 years old. You can attend one, two or all three of the seminars in the series. Attend Raising Confident, Competent Children to get tips for helping your children: Learn how to treat others with respect; Develop good communication and social skills; Develop healthy self-esteem.

Triple P Workshop: Balancing Work & Family (for CalWORKs participants) 1pm-3pm.

Cabrillo College, 6500 Soquel Drive, Room 913.

Triple P Workshops are brief classes that provide quick tips for handling everyday parenting issues.

Attend this FREE parenting workshop to learn: Common problems parents experience juggling work and family responsibilities; Tools to help prevent stress at work from affecting your home life; and How to create a positive transition from work life to home life.

This Triple P Workshop is FREE and open to CalWORKs participants. Contact your Employment and Training Specialist if you plan on attending. Presented in English by: Gelacio Gonzalez, Triple P practitioner Nature Art with Sue 3pm-4pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 2.

Orchard Circus Arts Class 3:30pm-4:30pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Orchard School. See Jan 2.

Afternoon STEM 3:30pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Aptos Library. Projects alternate—call library branch for more information.

Orchard Circus Arts Class 3:30pm-4:30pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Orchard School. Includes juggling, unicycling, stilt walking, and more with Rock Lerum. Drop-in basis. Please contact the school at 688-1074, or www.orchardschoolaptos.org for more info.

Free Rhythm Kids® demo classes hosted by MusicalMe, Inc. 4:30pm. 3709 Portola Dr (RK2). See Jan 8.

Female Survivor Support Group 6pm-7:30pm.

Ongoing Wednesdays. Monarch Services. See Jan 2. thursday, january 10

Latch Clinic 9am-11am. Ongoing Wednesdays.

Dominican Rehab Lactation office 610 Frederick St. See Jan 2.

Bookshop Santa Cruz Story Time 10am. Ongoing Wednesdays. See Jan 2.

Triple P @ Together in the Park (drop-in playgroup) 10:30am-12pm. Ongoing Wednesdays.

Felton Covered Bridge Park, corner of Graham Hill Rd and Mt. Hermon Rd (across from Safeway). See Jan 2.

Family Stories and Activities 11am. Ongoing Wednesdays. Boulder Creek Library. Songs, stories, art, games, and play for families with children of all ages.

What If Wednesday 11am-12pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 2.

Preschool Storytime 11am. Ongoing Wednesdays. Live Oak Library. See Jan 7.

New Moms Support Group 11:30am-1pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. See Jan 2.

El Patio De Mi Casa 12pm-2pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Live Oak Family Resource Center.

See Jan 2.

Food Addicts Anonymous Meeting 9am. Ongoing Thursdays. Trinity Presbyterian Church. See Jan 3.

Art & Play in Pre & K! 9:30am.Mount Madonna School. Parents of toddlers, preschool, and kindergarten age children are invited to come for a morning of activities and fun experiences with your child(ren) at the Mount Madonna School Preschool and Kindergarten. RSVPs encouraged. Contact Benna Dimig at 408-8464042 oradmissions@mountmadonnaschool.org.

Toddler Time 10am. Ongoing Thursdays. Aptos Library and Scotts Valley Library. See Jan 7.

Preschool Storytime 10:30am. Ongoing Thursdays. Downtown Library. See Jan 7.

New Parents with Babies 4 Months to 9 Months 10am-11:30am. Ongoing Thursdays. Sutter Room at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center.

See Jan 3.

Creative Exploration 12pm-1pm. Ongoing Thursdays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 3.

Coastal Rail Trail Groundbreaking Celebration 12:10pm-12:45pm. West base of the San Lorenzo Railroad Trestle Bridge. Come celebrate the groundbreaking for the first segment of the Coastal Rail Trail.

This Triple P Workshop is FREE and open to CalWORKs participants. Contact your Employment and Training Specialist if you plan on attending. Presented in English by: Dr. Lourdes Barraza, Triple P practitioner.

Afternoon STEM 3pm (La Selva Beach Library); 3:30pm (Garfield Park Library). Ongoing Wednesdays. See Jan 9.

Sensory Art with Brooke 3pm-4pm. Ongoing Thursdays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 3.

DIY Crafts 3pm-4:30pm. Ongoing Thursdays.

Boulder Creek Library. See Jan 8.

Triple P 8-Week Group: For families with children 2-12 years old 6pm-8pm. Ongoing Thursdays through Feb 28. San Lorenzo Valley Elementary School Library, 7155 Highway 9, Felton.

Attend this 8-week Triple P Group to meet other families and learn simple strategies to help you: Strengthen relationships in your family; Encourage positive behaviors; Teach your child new skills & behaviors; Handle disruptive or challenging behaviors with greater confidence; Take care of yourself as a parent.

Parenting issues that often cause disagreements between partners; How to take care of your relationship with your partner and create a positive family life; Tools to help partners support each other and work as a team.

This Triple P Workshop is FREE and open to CalWORKs participants. Contact your Employment and Training Specialist if you plan on attending. Presented in English by: Dr. Lourdes Barraza, Triple P practitioner Make and Explore at the Capitola Mall 2pm4pm. Ongoing Fridays. Children’s MOD. See Jan 4.

Watsonville Farmers Market 2pm-7pm. Ongoing Fridays. Downtown Watsonville Plaza. See Jan 4.

Art and Science at the MOD 3pm-4pm. Ongoing Fridays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 4.

Cabrillo Youth Strings Chamber Music Program 4:15pm-5:30pm. Ongoing Fridays. Cabrillo VAPA5137 and VAPA5141. See Jan 4.

Santa Cruz Harp Festival 5pm (craft) 6:30pm (free concert). Museum of Art and History 705 Front St. Exploring modern and historic music from all over the world on harps of all kind.

Live Music by the Grateful Dads 6:30pm-9pm.

Abbot Square. “We started this band with the idea that “We just want to play the music we love the most... The kind of sound we’d want to hear, the kind of vibe we’d want to feel while hanging out with friends and family.” saturday, january 12 Aptos Farmers Market 8am-12pm. Ongoing Saturdays. Cabrillo College. See Jan 5.

Open Gym 9am-12 pm. Ongoing Saturdays.

JuneBug’s Gym. See Jan 5.

This Triple P Group is FREE and open to the public. Free child care is available with advance registration. Light snacks will be provided for adults and children. Presented in English by: Cori Burt, Community Bridges – Mountain Community Resources.

Scotts Valley Farmer’s Market 9am-1pm. Ongoing Saturdays. SV Community Center parking lot. See Jan 5.

To register: Contact Cori Burt at 335-6600 x6605 or corib@cbridges.org or register online at http://first5scc.org/calendar/parent trainings

Redwood Grove Loop Walk 11am & 2pm. Ongoing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Big Basin State Park. See Jan 5.

friday, january 11 Toddler Time 10am. Ongoing Fridays. Downtown Library. See Jan 7.

DIY Crafts 11am-1pm (Garfield Park Library); 11am-4pm (Branciforte Library); 1:30pm4:30pm (La Selva Beach Library). Ongoing Saturdays. See Jan 8.

Preschool Storytime 10am. Ongoing Fridays.

Aptos Library. See Jan 7.

Old Growth Redwood Tours 11am. Ongoing Saturdays. Henry Cowell State Park. See Jan 5.

Infant/Toddler Workshop 11am-11:45am. Ongoing Fridays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 4.

Live Music by Skypark 12pm-2:30pm. Abbot Square. Skypark is a Santa Cruz band playing fun, danceable top 100 hits past and present.

Songs by Tom Petty, The Rembrandts (I’ll be there for you “Friends Theme”), John Mayer, Bob Marley, Big Mountain, The Beatles, Rolling Stones, The Eagles, Willie Nelson, No Doubt, Smashing Pumpkins, and Chris Isaak are featured along with many others.

Redwood Grove Loop Walk 11am & 2pm. Ongoing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Big Basin State Park. See Jan 4.

Sack Puppet Making 11:45am-12:15pm. Ongoing Fridays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 4.

Fun n’ Tumble Open Gym 12pm-3pm. Ongoing Fridays. JuneBugs Gym. See Jan 4.

Triple P Workshop: Supporting Your Partner (for CalWORKs participants) 1pm-3pm.

Cabrillo College, 6500 Soquel Drive, Room 913.

Triple P Workshops are brief classes that provide quick tips for handling everyday parenting issues.

Westside Farmers Market 9am-1pm. Ongoing Saturdays. Mission St. Ext. and Western Dr.

Open Art at the MOD 1pm-2pm. Ongoing Saturdays and Sundays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 5.

Spanish Speaking Cancer Support Group 3pm4:30pm. 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month.

WomenCARE’s Office. Open to Spanish-speaking women with all kinds of cancer. Provides emotional support, education, and referrals to other social services. Group is led in Spanish.

Please call 831-336-8662 to register.

Attend this FREE parenting workshop to learn:

January 2019 • Growing Up In Santa Cruz 31

JANuArY 2019 sunday, january 13

tuesday, january 15

Low Impact Stretching Exercise Class 8:30am9:30am. Ongoing Sundays. Health Education Center 700 South Green Valley Road, Watsonville. See Jan 6.

Toddler Time 10am. Ongoing Tuesdays. Branciforte Library. See Jan 7.

Live Oak Farmers Market 9am-1pm. Ongoing Sundays. 15th and Eastcliff Dr. Overeaters Anonymous 9:05am-10:15am. Ongoing Sundays. Sutter Maternity & Surgical Center.

See Jan 6.

New Parents with Babies 3 Weeks to 4 Months 10am-11:30am. Ongoing Tuesdays. Sutter Room at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center. See Jan 1.

Playbies Parenting Infant/Toddler Helpful Happy Hour 10am-1pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Coffee Lounge in Temple Beth El Aptos.

See Jan 1.

Redwood Grove Loop Walk 11am & 2pm. Ongoing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Big Basin State Park. See Jan 4.

Downtown Tuesdays 10am-10pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Downtown Santa Cruz. See Jan 1.

Open Art at the MOD 1pm-2pm. Ongoing Saturdays and Sundays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 5.

Preschool Storytime 10:30am. Ongoing Tuesdays. La Selva Beach Library and Scotts Valley Library. See Jan 7.

One-on-One Tech Tutoring 1pm-3pm. Ongoing Sundays. Downtown Library. See Jan 6.

Tumble-On-Tuesdays at JuneBug’s Gym 12pm3pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. See Jan 1.

Bachata by the Sea 1pm-3pm (picnic) 3pm-4pm (class) 4pm-7pm (dancing). Ongoing Sundays.

106 Beach St. See Jan 6.

Cancer Support Group 12:30pm-2pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. WomenCARE’s Office. See Jan 1.

DIY Crafts 1pm-4:30pm. Ongoing Sundays.

Live Oak Library. See Jan 8.

Watsonville Nature Walks 1:30pm. Ongoing Sundays. Watsonville Nature Center (30 Harkins Slough Road). See Jan 6.

Depression-Anxiety Recovery Program: How to Improve Your Brain Health and Cognition 3pm4pm. 700 South Green Valley Road. See Jan 6.

Nar-Anon Family Groups 6:30pm-8:00pm. Ongoing Sundays. Sutter Hospital. See Jan 6. monday, january 14 Preschool Storytime 10am. Ongoing Mondays.

Garfield Park Library. See Jan 7.

Toddler Time 10am. Ongoing Mondays. Live Oak Library. See Jan 7.

Make Art Monday 11am-12pm; 3pm-4pm. Ongoing Mondays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 7.

Baby Happy Hour at JuneBug’s Gym!! 12:15pm1:15pm. Ongoing Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays. See Jan 2.

ARM-in-ARM Cancer Support Group 12:30pm2pm. Ongoing Mondays. WomenCARE Office.

See Jan 7.

New Mommy Musical MeetUp 12:30pm-2pm.

Held 2nd Monday each month. Native Sons’ Hall, 239 High Street, Santa Cruz. Bring your baby (birth to 1 year) to meet & build community with other new mommies, sing & dance with your baby, and to learn some fun ways to integrate enriching musical activities in your baby’s life from a certified Music Together® teacher. $10 per family. http://www.musicalme.com/ Brain Health 1pm-2:30pm. Westside New Leaf.

We will discuss what contributes to poor brain function, how to reduce a toxic load, discuss the gut-brain connection, the best exercises, how to eat to reduce brain inflammation, and what supplements/herbs can help. You will leave feeling empowered about your brain health and your future. Register for free at the events section of the New Leaf Santa Cruz website.

Cuéntame un Cuento 5:30pm. Ongoing Mondays. Live Oak Library. See Jan 7.

32 Growing Up In Santa Cruz • January 2019

January Jumpstart: 4 Weeks to Healthier Eating: Choose Smart Carbs 1pm-2pm. Westside New Leaf. Carbohydrates, often referred to as carbs, are found in more than just bread. Of the three macronutrients – carbohydrates, fat, and protein – carbs have the greatest impact on blood sugar levels. Explore seasonal options for smart carbs, including vegetables, grains, and legumes. Register for free at the events section of the New Leaf Santa Cruz website.

Lego and Duplo Fun 1:30pm-3:30pm.Ongoing Tuesdays. Branciforte Library. See Jan 8.

DIY Crafts 2:30pm-4pm. Ongoing Tuesdays.

Downtown Library. See Jan 8.

Lego Club 3:15pm (1st and 3rd Tuesdays— Scotts Valley Library); 3:30pm (Ongoing Tuesdays—Boulder Creek Library). See Jan 8.

Free Rhythm Kids® demo classes hosted by MusicalMe, Inc. 4pm. 3709 Portola Dr (RK1). See Jan 8.

Youth Coalition Meeting 5pm-6:30pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Resource Center for Non-Violence. See Jan 1.

Family and Friends Cancer Support Group 5:30pm-7pm. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month. WomenCARE’s Office. See Jan 1.

Grupo de apoyo femenino del superviviente 6pm-7:30pm. Martes en curso. En Espanol.

Monarch Services. Ver Jan 1.

Hormones, Mood, and Food 6pm-7:30pm.

Westside New Leaf. In this class we will touch upon mood, our hormones and how this relates to our menstrual cycle. Class will delve into the foods we eat, (or don’t eat) and how they have a direct connection to promoting stable moods.

Register for free at the events section of the New Leaf Santa Cruz website.

Birth Center Tour 6:30pm. Ongoing Tuesdays.

Dominican Hospital. See Jan 1.

Divorced Fathers Network 7:30-8:30pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Aptos La Selva Fire Dept.

See Jan 1. wednesday, january 16 All Together Now! 9am-11am, Ongoing Wednesdays. Live Oak Family Resource Center. See Jan 2.

Latch Clinic 9am-11am. Ongoing Wednesdays.

Dominican Rehab Lactation office 610 Frederick St. See Jan 2.

Creative Exploration 12pm-1pm. Ongoing Thursdays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 3.

Bookshop Santa Cruz Story Time 10am. Ongoing Wednesdays. See See Jan 2.

Baby Happy Hour at JuneBug’s Gym!! 12:15pm1:15pm. Ongoing Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays. See Jan 3.

Triple P @ Together in the Park (drop-in playgroup) 10:30am-12pm. Ongoing Wednesdays.

Felton Covered Bridge Park, corner of Graham Hill Rd and Mt. Hermon Rd (across from Safeway). See Jan 2.

Afternoon STEM 3pm (La Selva Beach Library); 3:30pm (Garfield Park Library). Ongoing Wednesdays. See Jan 2.

Family Stories and Activities 11am. Ongoing Wednesdays. Boulder Creek Library. See Jan 9.

Sensory Art with Brooke 3pm-4pm. Ongoing Thursdays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 3.

Preschool Storytime 11am. Ongoing Wednesdays. Live Oak Library. See Jan 7.

DIY Crafts 3pm-4:30pm. Ongoing Thursdays.

Boulder Creek Library. See Jan 8.

What If Wednesday 11am-12pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 2.

Orchard School Open House 4pm-5:30pm.

2288 Trout Gulch Road, Aptos. Come tour our amazing campus and hear teacher presentations about our down-to-earth educational philosophy that nourishes the developing child, while honoring and celebrating childhood. Learn more about how we create magic together! Children welcome, of course. RSVP at 688-1074 or info@orchardschoolaptos.org

New Moms Support Group 11:30am-1pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. See Jan 2.

El Patio De Mi Casa 12pm-2pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Live Oak Family Resource Center.

See Jan 2.

Baby Happy Hour at JuneBug’s Gym!! 12:15pm1:15pm. Ongoing Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays. See Jan 2.

Dance for Parkinson’s 1pm. Ongoing Wednesdays except the first Wednesday of the month.

Motion Pacific Dance. See Jan 9.

Kick the Sugar Habit 1pm-2pm; 6pm-7pm.

Westside New Leaf. Learn how to identify sugar sources, sugar swapping, balanced meals, and reading labels. Register for free at the events section of the New Leaf Santa Cruz website.

Santa Cruz Farmers Market 1pm-6pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Cedar and Lincoln St. See Jan 2.

Nature Art with Sue 3pm-4pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 2.

Orchard Circus Arts Class 3:30pm-4:30pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Orchard School. See Jan 2.

Orchard Circus Arts Class 3:30pm-4:30pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Orchard School. See Jan 9th.

Afternoon STEM 3:30pm-5pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Aptos Library. See Jan 9.

Free Rhythm Kids® demo classes hosted by MusicalMe, Inc. 4:30pm. 3709 Portola Dr (RK2). See Jan 8.

Female Survivor Support Group 6pm-7:30pm.

Ongoing Wednesdays. Monarch Services. See Jan 2. thursday, january 17 Food Addicts Anonymous Meeting 9am. Ongoing Thursdays. Trinity Presbyterian Church. See Jan 3.

Toddler Time 10am. Ongoing Thursdays. Aptos Library and Scotts Valley Library. See Jan 7.

New Parents with Babies 4 Months to 9 Months 10am-11:30am. Ongoing Thursdays. Sutter Room at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center.

See Jan 3.

Preschool Storytime 10:30am. Ongoing Thursdays. Downtown Library. See Jan 7.

Entre Nosotras 6pm-8pm. 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month. WomenCARE’s Watsonville Office. See Jan 3.

Triple P 8-Week Group: For families with children 2-12 years old 6pm-8pm. Ongoing Thursdays through Feb 28. San Lorenzo Valley Elementary School Library, 7155 Highway 9, Felton. See Jan 10.

Naturalist Night: California Dinosaurs 7pm8:30pm. Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History.

Dinosaur fossils are few and far between in California, but their importance to ‘dinosaurology’ far outweighs their numbers. This talk from Dr. Hilde Schwartz will focus on the types of dinosaurs that inhabited California, the environments in which they lived and died, why they are rare, and what we’ve learned from their remains.

FREE with admission ($4 adult, $2 senior/student, FREE for kids) friday, january 18 Toddler Time 10am. Ongoing Fridays. Downtown Library. See Jan 7.

Infant/Toddler Workshop 11am-11:45am. Ongoing Fridays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 4.

Redwood Grove Loop Walk 11am & 2pm. Ongoing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Big Basin State Park. See Jan 4.

Sack Puppet Making 11:45am-12:15pm. Ongoing Fridays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 4.

Fun n’ Tumble Open Gym 12pm-3pm. Ongoing Fridays. JuneBugs Gym. See Jan 4.

Watsonville Farmers Market 2pm-7pm. Ongoing Fridays. Downtown Watsonville Plaza. See Jan 4.

Art and Science at the MOD 3pm-4pm. Ongoing Fridays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 4.

Cabrillo Youth Strings Chamber Music Program 4:15pm-5:30pm. Ongoing Fridays. Cabrillo VAPA5137 and VAPA5141. See Jan 4. saturday, january 19 Aptos Farmers Market 8am-12pm. Ongoing Saturdays. Cabrillo College. See Jan 5.

JANuArY 2019 Open Gym 9am-12 pm. Ongoing Saturdays.

JuneBug’s Gym. See Jan 5.

Scotts Valley Farmer’s Market 9am-1pm. Ongoing Saturdays. SV Community Center parking lot. See Jan 5.

Westside Farmers Market 9am-1pm. Ongoing Saturdays. Mission St. Ext. and Western Dr. Saturdays in the Soil 10am-12pm. Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History. See Jan 5.

Monarch Butterfly Tours 11am and 2pm. Natural Bridges. See Jan 5.

Redwood Grove Loop Walk 11am & 2pm. Ongoing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Big Basin State Park. See Jan 4.

DIY Crafts 11am-1pm (Garfield Park Library); 11am-4pm (Branciforte Library); 1:30pm4:30pm (La Selva Beach Library). Ongoing Saturdays. See Jan 8.

Old Growth Redwood Tours 11am. Ongoing Saturdays. Henry Cowell State Park.

Family Literacy and Fun Day 12pm-2pm. Watsonville Public Library, 275 Main St, #100. Stop by for bilingual story time, fun activities for children and families, a resource fair for families, and a chance to win prizes. This FREE event is cohosted by the Watsonville Public Library and First 5 Santa Cruz/Triple P – Positive Parenting Program.

Live Music by Summit Sisters 12pm-2:30pm.

Abbot Square. Enjoy a five-piece, all women rock/pop band based in the Santa Cruz Mountains featuring sweet harmonies and great songs that inspire dancing and fun.

Open Art at the MOD 1pm-2pm. Ongoing Saturdays and Sundays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 5.

Meet the Doulas 4pm-6pm. Pacific Cultural Center 1307 Seabright Ave, Santa Cruz. Meet the Doulas is a great opportunity to learn about birth and postpartum doulas. This event is open to everyone- no matter where they plan to birth home or hospital or birth center, in Santa Cruz, Watsonville, Monterey, or San Jose area. Enjoy a panel presentation about Birth Doula and Postpartum Doula services and time to interact with doulas and learn some “doula tricks of the trade.”

Registering for free tickets in advance helps us better plan for the event. http://www.mtdjan2019.eventbrite.com/ Santa Catalina School Theatre Arts presents Peter and the Starcatcher 7:30pm. 1500 Mark Thomas Drive, Monterey. An orphan and his mates are shipped off from Victorian England to a distant island ruled by the evil King Zarboff. When the ship is taken over by pirates—led by the fearsome Black Stache, a villain determined to claim the trunk and its treasure for his own—the journey quickly becomes a thrilling adventure.

faculty and discover how opportunities at Catalina can pave the way for her success in the classroom, on the stage, on the field, and in life.

Please RSVP by Wednesday, January 16 to 831.655.9356. santacatalina.org Redwood Grove Loop Walk 11am & 2pm. Ongoing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Big Basin State Park. See See Jan 4.

Open Art at the MOD 1pm-2pm. Ongoing Saturdays and Sundays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 5.

DIY Crafts 1pm-4:30pm. Ongoing Sundays.

Live Oak Library. See Jan 8.

Cuéntame un Cuento 5:30pm. Ongoing Mondays. Live Oak Library. See Jan 7. tuesday, january 22 Toddler Time 10am. Ongoing Tuesdays. Branciforte Library. See Jan 7.

New Parents with Babies 3 Weeks to 4 Months 10am-11:30am. Ongoing Tuesdays. Sutter Room at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center.

See Jan 1.

Playbies Parenting Infant/Toddler Helpful Happy Hour 10am-1pm. Ongoing Tuesdays.

Coffee Lounge in Temple Beth El Aptos. See Jan 1.

Bachata by the Sea 1pm-3pm (picnic) 3pm-4pm (class) 4pm-7pm (dancing). Ongoing Sundays.

106 Beach St. See Jan 6.

Downtown Tuesdays 10am-10pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Downtown Santa Cruz. See Jan 1.

Watsonville Nature Walks 1:30pm. Ongoing Sundays. Watsonville Nature Center (30 Harkins Slough Road). See Jan 6.

Preschool Storytime 10:30am. Ongoing Tuesdays. La Selva Beach Library and Scotts Valley Library. See Jan 7.

Science Sunday 1:30pm-2:30pm. Every 3rd Sunday. Seymour Marine Discovery Center. Lectures are designed to make science interesting and “user-friendly” for everyone. Free with membership, admission, or valid UCSC student ID.

Tumble-On-Tuesdays at JuneBug’s Gym 12pm3pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. See Jan 1.

Womb Song 2pm-3:30pm. Every 3rd Sunday.

The Pacific Cultural Center. Prepare for labor and life through vocal toning and breathing exercises. Circles are open to all mothers, mothers-tobe, those trying to conceive, birth workers and women who love to sing. No musical experience necessary, drop-ins welcome. More info and details at: www.wombsong.com

Cancer Support Group 12:30pm-2pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. WomenCARE’s Office. See Jan 1.

Depression-Anxiety Recovery Program: Lifestyle Therapies for Depression and Anxiety 3pm-4pm.

700 South Green Valley Road. See Jan 6.

January Jumpstart: 4 Weeks to Healthier Eating: Embracing Healthy Fats 1pm-2pm. Westside New Leaf. Although our modern culture has distorted our perspective on fats, some fats are essential for optimal health. Historical and scientific evidence show that our ancestors did not suffer from many modern chronic diseases even though they ate wholesome, unprocessed fat-rich foods.

Discover our favorite sources of fats and how they are part of a healthy diet. Register for free at the events section of the New Leaf Santa Cruz website.

Nar-Anon Family Groups 6:30pm-8:00pm. Ongoing Sundays. Sutter Hospital. See Jan 6.

Lego and Duplo Fun 1:30pm-3:30pm.Ongoing Tuesdays. Branciforte Library. See Jan 8.

Santa Catalina School Theatre Arts presents Peter and the Starcatcher 7:30pm. 1500 Mark Thomas Drive, Monterey. See Jan 19.

DIY Crafts 2:30pm-4pm. Ongoing Tuesdays.

Downtown Library. See Jan 8.

monday, january 21 Admission Open House at Santa Catalina Lower & Middle School 9:15am-11:30am. 1500 Mark Thomas Drive, Monterey. It all begins here! Join us at our admission open house to see how we introduce our students to the best of everything, right from the start. Open House includes presentations, classroom visits, and student-led campus tours. Please RSVP by Friday, January 18 to 655.9351. santacatalina.org Toddler Time 10am. Ongoing Mondays. Live Oak Library. See Jan 7.

Preschool Storytime 10am. Ongoing Mondays.

Garfield Park Library. See Jan 7.

Stepping Stones Triple P Workshop: Teaching Social Skills 3pm-4:30pm. Soquel Union School District, Board Room, 620 Monterey Ave, Capitola. Stepping Stones Triple P offers parenting support for families with children with special needs, such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, Down syndrome and other developmental delays. Stepping Stones Triple P Workshops are brief classes that provide quick tips for handling everyday parenting issues.

Attend this FREE workshop to learn tools for teaching social skills such as playing and sharing, having friends over, and handling repetitive behavior.

This Stepping Stones Triple P workshop is offered as part of the North Santa Cruz County SELPA Community Advisory Committee’s monthly meeting. No registration required. Light snacks provided. Please note: child care will not be available at this event. Presented in English by: Gelacio Gonzalez, Triple P Practitioner.

sunday, january 20

Make Art Monday 11am-12pm; 3pm-4pm. Ongoing Mondays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 7.

Low Impact Stretching Exercise Class 8:30am9:30am. Ongoing Sundays. Health Education Center 700 South Green Valley Road, Watsonville. See Jan 6.

Baby Happy Hour at JuneBug’s Gym!!

12:15pm-1:15pm. Ongoing Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays. See Jan 2.

Live Oak Farmers Market 9am-1pm. Ongoing Sundays. 15th and Eastcliff Dr.

ARM-in-ARM Cancer Support Group 12:30pm-2pm. Ongoing Mondays. WomenCARE Office. See Jan 7.

Lego Club 3:30pm-5pm. Ongoing Tuesdays.

Boulder Creek Library. See Jan 8.

Santa Catalina School Theatre Arts presents Peter and the Starcatcher 2pm. 1500 Mark Thomas Drive, Monterey. See Jan 19.

Youth Coalition Meeting 5pm-6:30pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Resource Center for Non-Violence. See Jan 1.

Word Church 4pm-8pm. Ongoing Mondays.

Santa Cruz MAH. See Jan 7.

Family and Friends Cancer Support Group 5:30pm-7pm. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month. WomenCARE’s Office. See Jan 1.

Overeaters Anonymous 9:05am-10:15am. Ongoing Sundays. Sutter Maternity & Surgical Center. See See Jan 6.

Admission Open House at Santa Catalina School 10:30am-1:30pm. 1500 Mark Thomas Drive, Monterey. Come see how your daughter can make her way with an excellent education at Santa Catalina School! Meet our students and

Grupo de apoyo femenino del superviviente 6pm-7:30pm. Martes en curso. En Espanol.

Monarch Services. Ver Jan 1.

For questions, contact the North Santa Cruz County SELPA Office at (831) 466-5700 or visit www.nsccselpa.org

Birth Center Tour 6:30pm. Ongoing Tuesdays.

Dominican Hospital. See Jan 1.

Divorced Fathers Network 7:30-8:30pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Aptos La Selva Fire Dept.

See Jan 1. wednesday, january 23 All Together Now! 9am-11am, Ongoing Wednesdays. Live Oak Family Resource Center.

See Jan 2.

Latch Clinic 9am-11am. Ongoing Wednesdays.

Dominican Rehab Lactation office 610 Frederick St. See Jan 2.

Triple P Seminar: Raising Confident, Competent Children (for families of Live Oak School District elementary schools only) 9am-11am. Live Oak Elementary School, 1916 Capitola Rd, Santa Cruz. Get tips for helping children: learn how to treat others with respect, develop good communication and social skills, and develop healthy self-esteem. This free Triple P Seminar is open to all Live Oak School District elementary school families as part of the Live Oak Cradle to Career Initiative.

Presented in Spanish by: Stella Lauerman, Triple P practitioner.

To register: contact Sergio Martinez, Live Oak Elementary School Family Engagement Coordinator at (831) 475-2000 ext. 2215or sergio@losd.ca.

Triple P Workshop: Building Children’s Communication and Problem-Solving Skills (for families of Live Oak Elementary School only) 9am-11am. Live Oak Elementary School, 1916 Capitola Rd, Santa Cruz. Get practical tips for teaching children how to communicate their feelings and needs and solve problems. This free Triple P Workshop is open to all Live Oak School District elementary school families as part of the Live Oak Cradle to Career Initiative.

Presented in Spanish by: Stella Lauerman, Triple P practitioner To register: contact Sergio Martinez, Live Oak Elementary School Family Engagement Coordinator at (831) 475-2000 ext. 2215or sergio@losd.ca.

Bookshop Santa Cruz Story Time 10am. Ongoing Wednesdays. See Jan 2.

Triple P @ Together in the Park (drop-in playgroup) 10:30am-12pm. Ongoing Wednesdays.

Felton Covered Bridge Park, corner of Graham Hill Rd and Mt. Hermon Rd (across from Safeway). See Jan 2.

Family Stories and Activities 11am. Ongoing Wednesdays. Boulder Creek Library. See Jan 9.

Preschool Storytime 11am. Ongoing Wednesdays. Live Oak Library. See Jan 7.

What If Wednesday 11am-12pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 2.

New Moms Support Group 11:30am-1pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. See Jan 2.

El Patio De Mi Casa 12pm-2pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Live Oak Family Resource Center.

See Jan 2.

Baby Happy Hour at JuneBug’s Gym!!

12:15pm-1:15pm. Ongoing Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays. See Jan 2.

January 2019 • Growing Up In Santa Cruz 33

JANuArY 2019

KING TIDES Tyler Holden dropping in during a recent surfing contest at The Hook.

Dance for Parkinson’s 1pm. Ongoing Wednesdays except the first Wednesday of the month.

Motion Pacific Dance. See Jan 9.

Working Together: Information Navigation 10am-11:30am. Ongoing Thursdays. Downtown Library. See Jan 3.

Santa Cruz Farmers Market 1pm-6pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Cedar and Lincoln St.

Campus Tour at Mount Madonna School 10:30am. Mount Madonna School. Come for a tour and stay for a preview of 13 the musical.

Small classes and learning that goes beyond the classroom walls, Montessori-influenced Pre/K and college prep 1st–12th grades. Featuring hands-on science labs, outdoor adventure and travel, marine biology studies on Catalina Island, buddy program, visual and performing arts. Contact Benna Dimig at 408-846-4042 or admissions@mountmadonna.org

Nature Art with Sue 3pm-4pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 2.

Orchard Circus Arts Class 3:30pm-4:30pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Orchard School. See Jan 9th.

Afternoon STEM 3:30pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Aptos Library. See Jan 9.

Female Survivor Support Group 6pm-7:30pm.

Ongoing Wednesdays. Monarch Services. See Jan 2.

Adults with ADHD Meeting 6:30-8pm. 4th Wednesdays. Aptos Fire Station, 6934 Soquel Drive, Aptos. The Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay Branch of CHADD hosts monthly support group meetings. Contact Judy Brenis at jbbrenis@comcast.net or call 818-9619. thursday, january 24 Food Addicts Anonymous Meeting 9am. Ongoing Thursdays. Trinity Presbyterian Church. See Jan 3.

Toddler Time 10am. Ongoing Thursdays. Aptos Library and Scotts Valley Library. See Jan 7.

Preschool Storytime 10:30am. Ongoing Thursdays. Downtown Library. See Jan 7.

New Parents with Babies 4 Months to 9 Months 10am-11:30am. Ongoing Thursdays. Sutter Room at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center.

See Jan 3.

34 Growing Up In Santa Cruz • January 2019

Easy Ways to Reduce Your Plastic Use 6pm-7pm.

Westside New Leaf. Join Shell Cleave, founder of Sea Hugger, for a discussion of how plastic negatively affects the environment, and a tutorial on simple changes you can make in your daily life that will reduce your plastic waste. Register for free at the events section of the New Leaf Santa Cruz website.

Triple P 8-Week Group: For families with children 2-12 years old 6pm-8pm. Ongoing Thursdays through Feb 28. San Lorenzo Valley Elementary School Library, 7155 Highway 9, Felton. See Jan 10. friday, january 25

Creative Exploration 12pm-1pm. Ongoing Thursdays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 3.

Toddler Time 10am. Ongoing Fridays. Downtown Library. See Jan 7.

Baby Happy Hour at JuneBug’s Gym!! 12:15pm1:15pm. Ongoing Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays. See Jan 2.

Infant/Toddler Workshop 11am-11:45am. Ongoing Fridays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 4.

Afternoon STEM 3pm (La Selva Beach Library); 3:30pm (Garfield Park Library). Ongoing Wednesdays. See Jan 2.

Redwood Grove Loop Walk 11am & 2pm. Ongoing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Big Basin State Park. See Jan 4.

Sensory Art with Brooke 3pm-4pm. Ongoing Thursdays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 3.

Sack Puppet Making 11:45am-12:15pm. Ongoing Fridays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 4.

DIY Crafts 3pm-4:30pm. Ongoing Thursdays.

Boulder Creek Library. See Jan 8.

Fun n’ Tumble Open Gym 12pm-3pm. Ongoing Fridays. JuneBugs Gym. See Jan 4.

Triple P South County Open House 3pm-5pm.

La Manzana Community Resources, 521 Main St, Watsonville (in outdoor courtyard). Hosted

by Community Bridges – La Manzana Community Resources. Stop by for food, games and a chance to win prizes! Meet La Manzana Community Resources’ Triple P practitioners, sign up for a Triple P class or one-on-one services, and learn about other organizations that support children and families.

Make and Explore at the Capitola Mall 2pm4pm. Ongoing Fridays. Children’s MOD. See Jan 4.

Watsonville Farmers Market 2pm-7pm. Ongoing Fridays. Downtown Watsonville Plaza. See Jan 4.

Photo by: Kevin Painchaud

Art and Science at the MOD 3pm-4pm. Ongoing Fridays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 4.

Cabrillo Youth Strings Chamber Music Program 4:15pm-5:30pm. Ongoing Fridays. Cabrillo VAPA5137 and VAPA5141. See Jan 4.

13 The Musical 7pm. Mount Madonna School.

Do you remember turning 13: the anticipation, angst and joy of wanting to ‘fit in’ and ‘stand out’? On January 25-27, Mount Madonna School (MMS) will present its high school production of 13 the musical, a story about growing up and finding one’s place in the world. All seats reserved. Tickets on sale at mms-13-brownpapertickets.com. More information at www.MountMadonnaSchool.org saturday, january 26 Aptos Farmers Market 8am-12pm. Ongoing Saturdays. Cabrillo College. See Jan 5.

Open Gym 9am-12 pm. Ongoing Saturdays.

JuneBug’s Gym. See Jan 5.

Scotts Valley Farmer’s Market 9am-1pm. Ongoing Saturdays. SV Community Center parking lot. See Jan 5.

Westside Farmers Market 9am-1pm. Ongoing Saturdays. Mission St. Ext. and Western Dr. DIY Crafts 11am-1pm (Garfield Park Library); 11am-4pm (Branciforte Library); 1:30pm4:30pm (La Selva Beach Library). Ongoing Saturdays. See Jan 8.

Redwood Grove Loop Walk 11am & 2pm. Ongoing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Big Basin State Park. See Jan 4.

JANuArY 2019 Santa Catalina School Theatre Arts presents Peter and the Starcatcher 12:45pm. 1500 Mark Thomas Drive, Monterey. See Jan 19.

Santa Catalina School Theatre Arts presents Peter and the Starcatcher 7:30pm. 1500 Mark Thomas Drive, Monterey. See Jan 19.

Open Art at the MOD 1pm-2pm. Ongoing Saturdays and Sundays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 5.

monday, january 28

13 The Musical 2pm. Mount Madonna School.

See Jan 25.

Spanish Speaking Cancer Support Group 3pm4:30pm. 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month.

WomenCARE’s Office. See Jan 4.

Jacob’s Heart Benefit Concert 4pm. United Methodist Church. Young local musicians (4 violinists) who have named themselves “The Fourtes”are putting on a concert to benefit Jacob’s Heart. The concert is free and they will have a donation basket from which they will donate everything that is collected.

Live Music by Pan Dulce 7:30pm-9pm. Abbot Square. “We are all bakers in this band, giving us a blend of diverse sounds and styles. Our music is rock with reggae, funk, punk, metal, ska, and latin influences - a sweet variety!” sunday, january 27 Low Impact Stretching Exercise Class 8:30am9:30am. Ongoing Sundays. Health Education Center 700 South Green Valley Road, Watsonville. See Jan 6.

Live Oak Farmers Market 9am-1pm. Ongoing Sundays. 15th and Eastcliff Dr. Overeaters Anonymous 9:05am-10:15am. Ongoing Sundays. Sutter Maternity & Surgical Center.

See Jan 6.

Redwood Grove Loop Walk 11am & 2pm. Ongoing Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Big Basin State Park. See Jan 4.

Salesian Elementary & Junior High Open House 12pm-3pm. 605 Enos Lane, Corralitos. Lunch & family activity provided. RSVP is helpful but not necessary. 831-728-5518 / info@salesianschool.org www.salesianschool.org Open Art at the MOD 1pm-2pm. Ongoing Saturdays and Sundays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 5.

Bachata by the Sea 1pm-3pm (picnic) 3pm-4pm (class) 4pm-7pm (dancing). Ongoing Sundays.

106 Beach St. See Jan 6.

Good Shepherd Catholic School Open House 1pm-3pm. Designed to provide an exciting opportunity for you to experience first hand Good Shepherd Catholic School and interact with students, faculty, and staff. For more information, please contact our office at 476-4000 or visit our website at www.gsschool.org. 2727 Mattison Lane. 476.4000 DIY Crafts 1pm-4:30pm. Ongoing Sundays.

Live Oak Library. See Jan 8.

Watsonville Nature Walks 1:30pm. Ongoing Sundays. Watsonville Nature Center (30 Harkins Slough Road). See Jan 6.

13 The Musical 2pm. Mount Madonna School.

See Jan 25.

Depression-Anxiety Recovery Program: Nutrition for the Brain 3pm-4pm. 700 South Green Valley Road. See Jan 6.

Nar-Anon Family Groups 6:30pm-8:00pm. Ongoing Sundays. Sutter Hospital. See Jan 6.

Toddler Time 10am. Ongoing Mondays. Live Oak Library. See Jan 7.

Preschool Storytime 10am. Ongoing Mondays.

Garfield Park Library. See Jan 7.

Make Art Monday 11am-12pm; 3pm-4pm. Ongoing Mondays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 7.

Baby Happy Hour at JuneBug’s Gym!! 12:15pm1:15pm. Ongoing Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays. See Jan 2.

ARM-in-ARM Cancer Support Group 12:30pm2pm. Ongoing Mondays. WomenCARE Office.

See Jan 7.

Word Church 4pm-8pm. Ongoing Mondays.

Santa Cruz MAH. See Jan 7. tuesday, january 29 Toddler Time 10am. Ongoing Tuesdays. Branciforte Library. See Jan 7.

New Parents with Babies 3 Weeks to 4 Months 10am-11:30am. Ongoing Tuesdays. Sutter Room at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center. See Jan 1.

Playbies Parenting Infant/Toddler Helpful Happy Hour 10am-1pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Coffee Lounge in Temple Beth El Aptos. See Jan 1.

Downtown Tuesdays 10am-10pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Downtown Santa Cruz. See Jan 1.

Preschool Storytime 10:30am. Ongoing Tuesdays. La Selva Beach Library and Scotts Valley Library. See Jan 7.

Tumble-On-Tuesdays at JuneBug’s Gym 12pm3pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. See Jan 1.

Cancer Support Group 12:30pm-2pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. WomenCARE’s Office. See Jan 1.

Lego and Duplo Fun 1:30pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Branciforte Library. See Jan 8.

January Jumpstart: 4 Weeks to Healthier Eating: Eat More Veggies 1pm-2pm. Westside New Leaf.

Ever heard of nutrient density? This is a term that measures the nutrient concentration in a food, per calorie. Vegetables are at the top of this list.

Low in carbohydrates but chock full of vitamins and minerals, veggies come in a rainbow of colors, and each color signifies a unique nutrient composition. Register for free at the events section of the New Leaf Santa Cruz website.

DIY Crafts 2:30pm-4pm. Ongoing Tuesdays.

Downtown Library. See Jan 8.

Lego Club 3:30pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Boulder Creek Library. See Jan 8.

Youth Coalition Meeting 5pm-6:30pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Resource Center for Non-Violence. See Jan 1.

Family and Friends Cancer Support Group 5:30pm-7pm. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month. WomenCARE’s Office. See Jan 1.

Take a Step Plant-Forward 6pm-7pm. Westside New Leaf. We’ll introduce the range of health, environmental, and economic benefits of plantbased foods. Then we’ll sample a variety of tasty in-store plant-based foods with tips on preparation and use for breakfast, lunch, and dinner that you, your friends, and family will enjoy! Register

for free at the events section of the New Leaf Santa Cruz website.

Thursdays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 3.

Grupo de apoyo femenino del superviviente 6pm-7:30pm. Martes en curso. En Espanol.

Monarch Services. Ver Jan 1.

Baby Happy Hour at JuneBug’s Gym!! 12:15pm1:15pm. Ongoing Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays. See Jan 2.

Birth Center Tour 6:30pm. Ongoing Tuesdays.

Dominican Hospital. See Jan 1.

Afternoon STEM 3pm (La Selva Beach Library); 3:30pm-5pm (Garfield Park Library). Ongoing Wednesdays. See Jan 2.

Divorced Fathers Network 7:30-8:30pm. Ongoing Tuesdays. Aptos La Selva Fire Dept. See Jan 1. wednesday, january 30 All Together Now! 9am-11am, Ongoing Wednesdays. Live Oak Family Resource Center. See Jan 2.

Latch Clinic 9am-11am. Ongoing Wednesdays.

Dominican Rehab Lactation office 610 Frederick St. See Jan 2.

Bookshop Santa Cruz Story Time 10am. Ongoing Wednesdays. See Jan 2.

Triple P @ Together in the Park (drop-in playgroup) 10:30am-12pm. Ongoing Wednesdays.

Felton Covered Bridge Park, corner of Graham Hill Rd and Mt. Hermon Rd (across from Safeway). See Jan 2.

Family Stories and Activities 11am. Ongoing Wednesdays. Boulder Creek Library. See Jan 9.

Sensory Art with Brooke 3pm-4pm. Ongoing Thursdays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 3.

DIY Crafts 3pm-4:30pm. Ongoing Thursdays.

Boulder Creek Library. See Jan 8.

Triple P 8-Week Group: For families with children 2-12 years old 6pm-8pm. Ongoing Thursdays through Feb 28. San Lorenzo Valley Elementary School Library, 7155 Highway 9, Felton. See Jan 10.

Look forward to an event on Feb 2! K-8th Grade Open House. 10am-1pm on Feb 2. Gateway School. Join us for our Annual Open House to experience the exciting things going on at Gateway School. You will meet our talented faculty, co-curricular specialist teachers and our Head of School. You will be treated to a musical performance, interactive lessons, a guided tour and lunch.

We look forward to meeting you and sharing all that Gateway has to offer your family.

Preschool Storytime 11am. Ongoing Wednesdays. Live Oak Library. See Jan 7.

What If Wednesday 11am-12pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Santa Cruz Children’s MOD. See Jan 2.

New Moms Support Group 11:30am-1pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. See Jan 2.

El Patio De Mi Casa 12pm-2pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Live Oak Family Resource Center.

See Jan 2.

Baby Happy Hour at JuneBug’s Gym!! 12:15pm1:15pm. Ongoing Mondays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays. See Jan 2.

Dance for Parkinson’s 1pm. Ongoing Wednesdays except the first Wednesday of the month.

Motion Pacific Dance. See Jan 9.

Santa Cruz Farmers Market 1pm-6pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Cedar and Lincoln St. Afternoon STEM 3:30pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Aptos Library. See Jan 9.

Love growing up in santa cruz? then, you’d love to work on our team.

We’re looking for ad sales reps to work part time and spread the news about our paper. We pay a generous commission and you work your own hours. it’s a perfect job for parents with kids in school, or anyone ambitious and enthusiastic. send a letter to editor@growingupsc.com We’re also looking for freelance writers with expertise in family issues.

Orchard Circus Arts Class 3:30pm-4:30pm. Ongoing Wednesdays. Orchard School. See Jan 9th.

Female Survivor Support Group 6pm-7:30pm.

Ongoing Wednesdays. Monarch Services. See Jan 2. thursday, january 31 Food Addicts Anonymous Meeting 9am. Ongoing Thursdays. Trinity Presbyterian Church. See Jan 3.

Toddler Time 10am. Ongoing Thursdays. Aptos Library and Scotts Valley Library. See Jan 7.

Preschool Storytime 10:30am. Ongoing Thursdays. Downtown Library. See Jan 7.

New Parents with Babies 4 Months to 9 Months 10am-11:30am. Ongoing Thursdays. Sutter Room at Sutter Maternity and Surgery Center.

See Jan 3.

GUiSC will attempt to update 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.

Calendar entries must be received by the 15th of the month prior to the month of the event. Send calendar entries via email to calendar@growingupsc.com.

Photos can also be emailed to be considered for inclusion in the calendar.

Calendar entries and photos will be selected by the Calendar Editor.

Creative Exploration 12pm-1pm. Ongoing

January 2019 • Growing Up In Santa Cruz 35

January 2019 • Growing Up In Santa Cruz 36