April 2021 Monterey Bay Parent

april 2021

READY FOR SPRING?

READY TO START THINKING ABOUT A VACATION?

PLAN AN EPIC CALIFORNIA ROAD TRIP! WE’RE TALKING BIRDS & BEES

Fresh Air, Friendship, OUR ANNUAL CAMP DIRECTORY

and lots and lots of

FUN

Summer camp is ON!

MONTEREY BAY PARENT • april 2021

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Monterey Bay Parent Magazine February 2021

That time your workout didn’t work out.

8 a.m.–8 p.m. every day including holidays Walk in or make a reservation online

MoGoUrgentCare.org Visit-related X-rays, lab work, and medications onsite and included in your co-pay or flat fee.

Smarter, faster urgent care.

MONTEREY BAY PARENT • april 2021

LOCATIONS y

CARMEL 26135 Carmel Rancho Blvd., Suite B-1

y

MARINA 2930 2nd Avenue, Suite 120

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MONTEREY 2020 Del Monte Avenue, Suite B

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Contents april 2021

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30 Easy Ways to Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle on Earth Day. Earth Day is a good reminder that we can all be a little more aware of the small actions we can take that add up to a big impact. by Katy M. Clark

2021 in each issue: 08 Father’s Day Local dad, Rob Weisskirch covers parenting topics from a dad’s point of view.

10 Dear Teacher Two long time teachers answer your questions about your child’s learning.

12 Peninsula Kids Parents share photos of their kids and families.

14 The Deep Blue Bay Monterey Bay Whale Watch educates readers about Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.

on the cover

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SUMMER CAMP DIRECTORY 2021. It’s time to start thinking about summer plans for your kids. If you’re looking for a summer camp to fill the days, we have some awesome choices for you!

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Questions to Ask Your Camp Director About COVID-19.

We’re sharing a list of questions and considerations put together with the aid of camp directors across the country.

by American Camp Association staff

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When Camp Isn’t an Option. If camp isn’t an option for your family this summer – for whatever reason – here are eight fun activities your family will enjoy.

by Denise Green

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How to Plan For a Future Vacation. Starting to think about a summer vacation? Here are five tips for planning a trip. page 28

Katelyn is 10 years old and in the 4th grade at Spreckels School. She lives with parents Brian and Sheri and her brother Noah.

She has 2 dogs, 2 guniea pigs and enjoys the beach, arts and crafts and playing with her friends. She also enjoys creating and sharing recipes with her brother for their monthly column called Kids in the Kitchen for a local magazine.

Mia is 10 years old and in the fourth grade.

Mia enjoys most subjects in school. When she is not in school she loves drawing, painting, reading, writing, playing online games with friends, and dancing. She also loves to play with her dog Marlee.

Photo by Michelle Findlay 831-262-9192 • michellefindlay.com

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Epic California Road Trip If a road trip is sounding like a fun summer vacation, our “Grandma Says’ columnist shares six destinations off the beaten path.

MONTEREY BAY PARENT • april 2021

SUMMER@KIRBY!

It’s going to be a great summer!

Join us at Kirby School for our virtual or in-person academic, arts, and athletics summer program in June and July 2021.

Our staff are safety trained and excited to ignite your incoming 6th through 12th grade student’s imagination. We invite you to learn, play, and create together!

Sign up to learn more about our program at:

425 Encinal Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 | kirby.org MONTEREY BAY PARENT • april 2021

kirby.org/summeratkirby montereybayparent.com

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from the publisher…

April. We’re finally (hopefully) turning a corner. Over 100,000 Monterey County residents have received at least one vaccine dose. Schools are opening their doors, restaurants can now have indoor dining, and our numbers are finally going down. There is so much to be grateful for. But, there is still a lot of danger. The virus isn’t gone, and we need to continue to be vigilant by masking up, washing often, and keeping our gatherings to safe numbers.

Part of the good news is that summer looks almost normal. Camps directors are busy coming up with plans that allow them to have safe sessions that will still offer fun activities. You can find information about a bunch of awesome camps on pages 18-21. Keep in mind that most camps are offering smaller groups this year, so book early.

You’ll find helpful information about what you should watch out for when considering the safety of a camp on page 22. The American Camp Association has been hard at work helping directors prepare, and they’re reaching out to parents to help them prepare as well.

If camp isn’t an option for your family this summer, we have eight fun activities to put on your summer “to-do” list (page 24). And, do not miss Tricia Vlasak’s article on six off-the-beaten-track destinations for an epic California road trip on page 28.

We’re welcoming Monterey Bay Whale Watch to the family this month. Each month they will be educating readers about the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. It’s such a backyard treasure, and no one knows more about it than their owner and staff. See their first article on page 14.

In another sign that things are slowly returning to normal, our Summer Expo to Go is April 10 at Del Monte Center in Monterey. We’ve amended things in the interest of safety, and instead of gathering your info from various business reps, we’ve done all of the work for you. You can swing by, ticket in hand, to pick up a prepackaged, reusable shopping bag filled with information and giveaways. Plus, you’ll get a backpack filled with MY Museum activities and a craft kit from Del Monte. And, you won’t want to miss the gorgeous balloon installation from Poptopia. Make sure you sign up for a ticket at MontereyBayParent.com, so you don’t miss out on any of the fun!

Andrea Breznay/Publisher

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Monterey Bay

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P.O. Box 806 Pacific Grove, CA 93950 MontereyBayParent.com

831-582-1373 Publisher Andrea Breznay abreznay@montereybayparent.com 831-582-1373 Sales Executive Danika Mallobox dmallobox@montereybayparent.com Calendar Editor valeria snell Cover Photographer Michelle Findlay Contributing Writers karty m. clark denise green tricia vlasak rob weisskirch Editorial Submissions are welcome. We reserve the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed. We cannot be responsible for return of any unsolicited materials.

Articles and advertisements in Monterey Bay Parent do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher nor does the publisher assume responsibility for statements made by our advertisers or editorial contributors.

Acceptance of advertising by Monterey Bay Parent does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature.

Monterey Bay Parent is available free of charge at over 250 distribution points throughout Monterey and Santa Cruz counties as well as digitally at www.MontereyBayParent.com.

Monterey Bay Parent is ©2021 by Monterey Bay Parent, LLC. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

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Ages 0-12

Easter

DRIVE THRU Bring your Easter Basket and collect eggs along the way.

FREE EVENT

Aprilir3grrodunds

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– 5 pm. m p 2 m fro t

visi formation, za/ For more inir.com/eggstravagan fa ty n u o yc re te mon

MONTEREY COUNTY FAIR AND EVENT CENTER

04/02 Spiderman Homecoming

04/03 American Graffiti

04/09 Monster Hunter

04/10 The Sandlot

Matinee $20 per car Evening Show $30 per car Entry through Gate 6 begins one hour prior to movie start Pop Up Drive In Movies are scheduled to June.

04/16 Guardians of the Galaxy

04/17 Tangled

04/23 Wall E

04/24 Clueless

04/30 High School Musical

For Schedule and Tickets visit www.montereycountyfair.com/pop-up-movies/ MONTEREY BAY PARENT • april 2021

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Father’s day by Rob Weisskirch

Spring is here!

Birds and Bees, Everywhere Spring has arrived. The weather is warmer, and the flowers are blossoming. The birds and bees are out and in our house too. Yup, we are talking about babies and reproduction, and I am terrified.

Up to now, while my wife and I haven’t avoided the topic of sex and reproduction, we haven’t gotten down to the nitty-gritty details of what happens. We have pledged from the beginning to use correct terms for body parts (e.g., vulva) and not use euphemisms for basic anatomy. Our daughter has seen friends’ mothers’ bellies grow with pregnancy and then have babies appear, as well as plenty of vet and zoo shows showing all kinds of reproductive activities and births. But, she summarized human reproduction as “when men and women love each they decide to have a baby.” For us, it was sufficient for her age.

However, after an incident in her Kindergarten class when she referenced sex as “laying side by side with someone,” her school counselor got involved. The counselor spoke to her and realized that she had pretty vague ideas. Then the school principal had a stern but supportive discussion with me. This incident began our discussions a few years ago.

Fast forward and now my daughter is asking specific questions about how exactly a baby gets in a woman’s tummy. My wife did some research to find a good book with

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age-appropriate pictures to support her learning. The two of them read through some chapters, having a lively discussion. I stayed out of it.

I wasn’t getting the questions–my wife was. I realized that I was ducking my inclusion in the discussion. Even though I have lots of training and education around the topic, I felt a mix of embarrassment, anxiety, and awkwardness, facing my seven-yearold’s questions. I discovered that research supports my reaction–fathers’ reluctance and avoidance in discussing such topics.

I try to think of myself as an evolved dad and fully involved in my daughter’s life.

However, this was one area that made me nervous.

I am all in favor of having her celebrate her changing body and exploring her sexuality in the future when she is ready, but it’s all in the abstract. In my mind, I want her to stay a little girl and be free from the pressures of society on young girls. I know that the talk about the birds and bees is not finished and that it is an ongoing dialog that we will have to revisit (and I will have to enter fully). As puberty approaches we

will have more discussions of what changes are imminent for her and how other people often respond. Also, as research shows, when dads don’t involve them in sex education in the home, then children don’t reach out to them with questions about sex and other health concerns. As children become teens, if dads are not plugged into sex and health discussions, they also miss out on learning about different aspects of a teen’s life.

As my wife and daughter made their way through the book in the other room, my daughter was compelled to ask me questions. She asked, “Did you put your penis in Mommy’s vagina to have me?” And, I

MONTEREY BAY PARENT • april 2021

answered, “Yes.” Her response: “Gross.”

I admit, this brought me a little solace.

Since then, we have found her quietly thumbing through the book on her own and have asked her to go through it with us. Knowing that she would want to share her newfound knowledge with others, we also remind her that it is up to parents and teachers to talk to her friends about that stuff.

Currently, I’m working on my nervousness about discussing the topic. I don’t want to get shut out in the future when she has questions or wants to talk about what is happening with her relationships. Research supports that youth’s confidence about sexual issues is related to how “askable” they perceive their parents. I will do my best as a dad not to show my nervousness and be part of the difficult conversations.

Robert (Rob) S. Weisskirch, MSW, Ph.D., CFLE is a Professor of Human Development at California State University, Monterey Bay and is a Certified Family Life Educator. He and his wife are parents to a chatty, elementary school aged daughter and reside in Marina.

These “birds and bees” books were highly recommended by Monterey Bay Parent readers:

resources

What Makes a Baby Geared to readers from preschool to age eight, this is a book for every kind of family and every kind of kid. It is picture book about conception, gestation, and birth, and is inclusive of all kinds of kids, adults, and families, regardless of how many people were involved, their orientation, gender and other identity, or family composition. The story doesn’t gender people or body parts, so most parents and families will find that it leaves room for them to educate their child without having to erase their own experience. Written by sexuality educator Cory Silverberg, and illustrated by award-winning artist Fiona Smyth.

It’s Not the Stork It’s Not the Stork! helps answer those endless and perfectly normal questions that preschool, kindergarten, and early elementary school children ask about how they began. Through lively, comfortable language and sensitive, engaging artwork, Robie H. Harris and Michael Emberley address readers in a reassuring way, mindful of a child’s healthy desire for straightforward information.

Sex is a Funny Word: A Book about Bodies, Feelings, and YOU A comic book for kids that includes families of all orientations and gender identities, This is an essential resource about bodies, gender, and sexuality for children ages 8 to 10 as well as their parents and caregivers. Much more than the “facts of life,” the book opens up conversations in a way that allows adults to convey their values and beliefs while providing information about boundaries, safety, and joy. Written by Cory Silverberg and illustrated by Fiona Smyth.

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PEBBLE BEACH GRADES 9–12 DAY & B OA R D I N G

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This Month:

dear teacher by Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts

RETENTION, READING AND HOMEWORK When Is Retention the Answer?

Question: The school wants to keep my son in third grade again next school year. They say he is not working on grade level in reading, math, science or social studies. Do you think that this is a good idea? – Looking for an answer Answer: If retention is truly going to be successful, it definitely needs to be done in the lower elementary grades.

Whatever problems your son has, retention is not likely to solve them. Many years of research have shown retention to be ineffective in helping children improve the skills that caused them to be retained in the first place. Most children do not “catch up!” Furthermore, although some retained students do better at first, these children often fall behind in later grades. In addition, retention after fifth grade is rarely successful. Plus, it is usually very traumatic for older children.

There are still 6 to 8 weeks left of this school year enough time for you and the teacher to devise a plan that will start working on improving your son’s skills. Testing might be advisable to make sure that his academic problems are not a learning disability and should find out exactly where his problems lie.

The teacher needs to immediately pinpoint exactly what skills the child lacks in each subject area and to tell you what help the school can provide. You will also definitely need to work with him, get a tutor or enroll him in a learning center now.

Fortunately, there is an entire summer to bring up his many weak skills. Summer school, a tutor, a college learning center for reading and math help are all good choices to help him.

Frequently, multiple skill weaknesses are connected to reading problems. You should start reading aloud nightly with your son to bolster his confidence in his ability to read.

Go also online to the Dear Teacher website where you will find ways to improve his reading in our Skill Builders section.

By starting to work now and throughout the summer with your son, he should be better prepared to handle the challenges of fourth grade and avoid being retained.

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Finding out a Child’s Reading Level

just takes so long, there is not time for family fun activities. – Too Much Work

Question: Is there a way that a parent can find out what a child’s actually reading grade level is? – Concerned Answer: Begin by going to our Dear Teacher website and scrolling down on the home page to “Find Your Child’s Reading Level.” Click on the word “more” and you will be able to download an assessment. The directions for giving the assessment are on the first page. It is a very easy, quick and reliable assessment to use.

On completion of the test you will know your daughter’s independent reading level. That is the area where she can read books totally by herself.

Next you will find her instructional reading level and hopefully she is reading on or above the grade she is currently in school. Finally, you will learn what grade level of material totally frustrates her.

Cutting Homework Time Question: Is there anything parents can do to cut children’s homework time? Doing homework at our house

Answer: You really can’t do much about your children’s volume of homework, but you can help them be more efficient in the way they handle it – reducing homework time. Whether you like it or not, your job is to help your children learn how to take care of the details of homework, so homework time is reduced. First of all, have an established homework routine so time is not wasted on battles about when they should do their homework.

Have a dedicated homework area.

It should be away from the nosiest and most distracting part of your home.

The area should definitely have good lighting and have a large, flat surface for doing work. It’s also helpful to have a box, bin, or shelf filled with all the supplies children are likely to need, like pencils, pens, ruler, stapler, notecards, notebooks, glue, colored pencils, crayons, dictionary, and thesaurus so time will not be wasted looking for materials.

One reason homework may take too long is that children do not have a plan of attack for the order in which

they will do assignments. Work with your children on this until they can handle it themselves. Some like to do the easier assignments first, and some prefer to start with the difficult ones.

Show your children how to handle roadblocks that occur when they do not know how to do assignments.

Instead of jumping in right away, suggest that they reread the directions and study any examples of how the exercise is to be done. If this is not sufficient, advise your children to study textbook or worksheet explanations of the assignment as well as any class notes they may have or similar work that was done in class.

When children simply cannot do an assignment, you may need to do some teaching. Always try and use concrete materials when teaching them. If this occurs frequently, it is time for a chat with their teachers as this may be why homework is taking them so long to do.

Parents should send questions and comments to dearteacher@ dearteacher.com or to the Dear Teacher website.

serious fun .

It’s a girl thing

Summer at Santa Catalina

Monterey, CA • 831.655.9386 • santacatalina.org MONTEREY BAY PARENT • april 2021

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Peninsula Kids

We’re celebrating spring this month. Here are some of our favorite photos.

Audrey

Giggy

Ivory, Silas, and Uriah

Archie

Want to see your cute kids on this page?

Verity

Charlotte

Taylor

Next month, we’re celebrating MOTHERS. Email your favorite photo of the mothers in your life (with or without kids!).

Submit it with the first names of those in the photo to: abreznay@montereybayparent.com.

EDUCATING CHILDREN IN MONTEREY COUNTY SINCE 1967 • WE MAKE LEARNING CHILD’S PLAY! • Offering Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten • Open to ages 2-5 • We work on developing reading readiness, introducing number concepts, and creating social adjustment using a theme-based curriculum • Science, language, social studies, and nature curriculum • Open 7:30 am to 6 pm • Call for rates

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THE DEEP BLUE BAY Sponsored content from Monterey Bay Whale Watch

Whale Watching W

hale watching is an educational and family friendly activity you can safely enjoy outside. The National Marine Sanctuary in our own backyard is just waiting to be explored.

Did you know that the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is the second largest National Marine Sanctuary in the nation? The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary was designated a National Sanctuary in 1992. It encompasses 4,601 square nautical miles–extending from the Gulf of the Farallones to Cambria, south of Big Sur. The Sanctuary is centered around the Monterey Bay Submarine Canyon, which is the largest and deepest submarine canyon on the west coast and the only one that approaches so close to shore. This canyon supports an incredible diversity of deep water marine mammals and seabirds. It is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon–reaching over 12,000 feet deep.

April is Orca and Humpback Whale season. Both of these animals are incredible to see in the wild. On a whale watching tour, you may also see different species of dolphin and other species of larger whales, like Gray Whales, Blue Whales, and Fin Whales.

Monterey Bay Whale Watch is owned and operated by a Marine Biologist who has a passion for education. All trips are led by experienced Biologists and are fun for the entire family.

Kids can learn what marine biologists do and how to become one For more information check www.gowhales.com.

Fun for the Family

fun facts about Orcas • The Orca, or Killer Whale, is actually the largest species of dolphin. There are many different ecotypes of Orcas, and they all have specific food preferences.

• Orcas are a matriarchal society - which means the females are in charge.

• Different groups of Orcas can speak different dialects.

• Orcas are the second most widespread animal in the world - only second to humans. You can find Orcas in every single ocean.

• Orcas can even scare Great White Sharks. fun facts about Humpback Whales • Humpback Whales can reach a length of about 50 feet.

That is about the size of a small school bus.

• Even though Humpback Whales are so large, they eat some of the smallest food like tiny fish and krill.

• Humpback Whales have no teeth. Instead, they have something called baleen plates, which are made out of keratin. They use their baleen plates like a giant strainer.

• Only male Humpback Whales sing - and their songs can travel for many miles underneath the water.

• Humpback Whales have their own fingerprint on the underside of their tail.

To download a printable copy of the whale drawing to color and to find an article with whale crafts, look for the link at MontereyBayParent.com.

Spring and summer whale watching

Whales and dolphins in their natural habitat • Fun and educational for the entire family

• Tours led by experienced Biologists • Following social distancing and CDC guidelines • Dog friendly

Trip details and pricing at www.gowhales.com or call 831-375-4658 14

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BIA is a recognized leader in the community providing: • 1:1 Intervention Services to Individuals 18 mos-18 years • Center, Home, And Community Based Services • Social Skills Groups

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Every year on April 22 my family celebrates Earth Day along with millions of families around the world.

Started in 1970, Earth Day encourages us to appreciate the environment and become more aware of the issues that threaten it.

There are plenty of ways that kids can commemorate the day, no matter how old they are. Check out these 30 ideas for easy ways that everyone from preschoolers to teenagers can reduce, reuse, and recycle this Earth Day.

30 Easy Ways To Reduce, Reuse And Recycle On Earth Day 16

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Little ones

1. Bundle up in layers on cooler days rather than turning up the heat.

2. Teach your kids to turn off the water when brushing their teeth.

3. Recycle! Have young ones place items such as paper and tin cans into dedicated recycling bins rather than the trash.

4. Demonstrate to little ones how to cool your house on hot days by pulling the drapes closed instead of dialing down the air conditioning.

earth day by Katy M. Clark 5. Teach little ones how to turn the lights off when leaving a room.

6. Make bird feeders out of natural ingredients like pine cones and birdseed.

7. Get a houseplant or two and talk about how plants improve the air we breathe.

8. Have your kids play with ecofriendly toys and games, like wooden puzzles dyed with non-toxic stains or balls that are BPAand phthalate-free.

9. Transform trash into treasure.

Preschoolers can create beautiful works of art by reusing and

10. Engage them in planting a garden and growing vegetables that your family can eat.

MONTEREY BAY PARENT • april 2021

School-age kids 11. Elementary school kids can help with shopping for recyclable products. Have them look for labels that say recycled content, pre-consumer and postconsumer.

12. Kids can place small recycling bins in each bathroom in the house. Bonus points if you can get them to empty them each week into the curbside recycling bin!

13. Show them how to use reusable rags instead of paper towels to clean up messes.

14. Create a compost pile, whether on the kitchen counter or in your backyard. Kids can throw in egg shells, coffee grounds, and most food scraps and wait for them to turn into rich soil for use with plants outside and in.

15. Encourage them to sign up to pick up trash from community spaces like playgrounds, parks or beaches.

16. Teach them to turn off the lights when they leave the room (again!)

17. Let the kids make signs in every room of the house that remind family members to turn off the lights.

18. Use reusable water bottles rather than single use plastic bottles.

19. Plant a tree at school or home.

20. Plant milkweed native to your area to help the monarch butterfly population.

PROGRESS NOT PERFECTION PAINT PARTIES RESERVE NOW!

Limited openings available

Camps in June & July

Summer Camp Monday-Wednesday 9am-1pm Painting • Crafting • Drawing

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Tweens and teens 21. Bigger kids will enjoy visiting thrift shops to nab preowned pieces that otherwise may have ended up in the landfill.

22. Don’t forget to encourage them to use reusable bags when shopping.

23. Have them unplug their electronics and chargers when not in use.

24. They can also turn off their desktop or gaming monitors when they aren’t using them.

25. Ask them to devise ways your house can collect rainwater for use on houseplants or flowers.

26. Turn off the lights when leaving the room. (Yes, you’ll probably still be working on this one with teens even though you’ve been preaching it since they were little!)

27. Recycle old cell phones. Make sure to take out SIM cards and erase the phones first, usually with a factory reset. Teens may also need to remove the battery and research how and where the battery can be recycled properly.

28. Use a timer to conserve water when taking a shower.

29. Remove makeup with cleanser and a reusable wipe instead of disposable wipes.

30. Host or volunteer at an e-waste collection event.

SUMMER CAMPS 2021

EXPLORE OUTDOORS THIS SUMMER WITH SCIENTISTS FROM THE PACIFIC GROVE MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY Small cohorts of campers will be led by two scientists on adventures in the Museum, in the garden, and to nearby natural areas. Each day will bring fun with friends and new experiences with science, nature, and our local history. Each week is a new camp theme filled with science experiments, art projects, games, and activities designed to learn while having fun.

Camper, family, and staff safety is our number one priority. We have put into place practices that provide layers of protection.

For more information and registration info, visit:

PGMUSEUM.ORG/SUMMER-CAMP

(831) 648-5716

PGMUSEUM.ORG

165 FOREST AVENUE, PACIFIC GROVE, CA 93950

MONTEREY BAY PARENT • april 2021

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2021 It’s time to start thinking about summer plans for the kids. If you’re looking for a summer camp to fill the days, we have some pretty awesome choices for you!

Be sure to check our summer camp directory at MontereyBayParent.com for comprehensive information on summer camps and ongoing updates.

Adventures in Writing www.AIWcamp.com Authors, teachers, and musicians are teaming up to help students fall in love with writing. Adventures in Writing Camp is a three-week “daycamp” that allows elementary campers to write, edit, and publish their own eBooks, and middle-schoolers to create their own podcasts! Campers learn and create under the guidance of credentialed teachers, musicians, and authors. Lessons are delivered as songs. New writing skills are practiced by writing (family-friendly) rap songs. It’s all designed to give your child a positive, confidencebuilding experience with writing. Online options are available as well.

Cam is scheduled for July 12 – July 30 at All Saints Day School. Camp hours are 9 am – 3 pm. Open to students entering grades 1-8. Sibling and early registration discounts are available.

All Saints Day School 831-624-9171 • www.asds.org/summer Join us this summer for some fun in the sun at the All Saints Preschool Camp. Geared towards children ages 3-5, the emphasis of the program (which will operate four two-week sessions from June 14 through August 6) will be on engaging each child, and inspiring them as they explore developmentally appropriate games, songs, and crafts and becoming confident in a classroom environment. Children must be potty trained.

Carmel Youth Center 831-624-3285 • carmelyouth.org Carmel Youth Center invites all of Monterey County to our STEAM based camps for elementary and middle school aged kids. In person camps are from 8am-3pm with early/late options (7am-4pm) or stay at home with a Summer Camp to-go box! Pick from a range of camps that focus on leadership, earth science, computer technology, engineering skills and more. Registration is open now! Sign up at www. carmelyouth.org/summer Tuition Assistance available.

Central Coast YMCA 831-757-4633 • www.centralcoastymca.org Salinas, South County, Watsonville, San Benito, and Monterey The Y provides a weekly day camp experience, complete with outdoor fun and quality supervision that is perfect for the camper in your family.

The focus of this camp will be on developing social skills, teamwork, self-esteem and an appreciation for the environment. Campers are exposed to an interactive curriculum including values, reading and health and wellness. Activities include field trips, on-site guest speakers, indoor and outdoor games, recreational swim, nature activities, family events and so much more.

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Chartwell School 831-394-3468 • www.chartwell.org/summer Chartwell School’s Extended School Year Summer Program is academically focused (literacy, math and STEAM) and open to any student who would benefit from specialized instruction or would like to maintain progress achieved over the preceding academic year. Afternoon programs include a reading clinic, robotics, studio art, fitness, and more.

The Dance Center 831-625-3262 • www.dancecarmel.com Summer camps at The Dance Center in Carmel (TDC) offer a wide range of options for the recreational or experienced dancer. Our themed weekly dance camps for ages 3-4 & 5-8 include half days. Ballet/Pointe and Jazz/Contemporary intensives cater to all levels (rising 1st-12th GR.) while Acrobatics & Hip-Hop Camps and Musical Theater, Vocal, and Acting Camps include rising kinders through 12th graders. The Dance Center also offers a weekly summer class session. Camp & class schedule forthcoming in mid-April. Questions? Email info@dancecarmel.com. www.dancecarmel.com Hidden Hills Ranch 831-663-6471 • www.hiddenhillsranch.org Horse Camps are exciting week-long camps on a beautiful 65-acre ranch. Campers spend their days learning to work safely around horses, lead, feed, groom and tack their horse. During a day filled of riding and exploring, campers learn how to maneuver their horse through barrels and poles, participate in horseback games and go on trail rides around our beautiful ranch.

2021 JRGA PGA Sports Summer Academy

Justin Russo Golf Academy www.JustinRussoGolfAcademy.com Camps are open to boys and girls ages 5-17. Each day will consist of play, instruction, practice, on course time, games and of course snacks. The intent is to make sure all campers have a great week and improve their skills, knowledge and passion for the game of golf. As the camp progresses students have the opportunity to take their skills to the course where instructors and assistants help optimize the golfers’ game. Course management and etiquette are stressed each time the golfer is on the course.

MEarth Summer Day Camp mearthcarmel.org • 831-624-1032 Campers will be engaged in a two-week curriculum that includes skills and knowledge for the planting, care of, harvesting, and donation of local produce from the MEarth garden as well as the care of local native plant species for ecological restoration. At the heart of these camps will be an ongoing discussion of interconnectedness between self, community, and the environment.

Monte Vista Christian mvcs.org/camps • 831-722-8178 MVC is offering a full docket of summer camps for students of all ages this June and July. Camps that focus on athletics, equestrian, and fine arts will be on the schedule.

June 7 – 11; June 21 – 25; July 5 – 9; July 19 – 23; Aug 2 – 6

Half Day $299 (12:30-4:00) • Full Day $449 (12-5pm)

Sign up before April 30 to get 10% off Register Today! www.JustinRussoGolfAcademy.com 20

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Pac Rep Theatre School of Dramatic Arts schoolofdramaticarts.org • 831-622-9175 Offering an array of in-person camps including Disney Boot Camp, Broadway Boot Camp, Sing and Play and many more. Camps are open to ages 4-16 (depending on camp) and weekly sessions are scheduled for June-August.

MONTEREY BAY PARENT • april 2021

Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History 831-648-5716 • PGmuseum.org Small cohorts of campers will be led by two scientists on adventures in the Museum, in the garden, and to nearby natural areas. Each day will bring fun with friends and new experiences with science, nature, and our local history. Each week is a new camp theme filled with science experiments, art projects, games, and activities designed to learn while having fun. Open to children entering kindergarten through 5th grade.

Progress Not Perfection Paint Parties 831-596-9194 • www.pnppaintparty.com Kids art and craft camps will be held in June and July. Camps are open to ages 6-12 and are coed. Camps run Monday-Wednesday from 9-1 pm.

Rising Star Gymnastics 831-375-9335 • www.risingstargym.net Offering junior camps for ages 3-5, gymnastics camps for ages 5-12, and ninja camps for ages 5-12. Active, fun-filled days to keep children busy throughout the summer.

Santa Catalina Summer Camp 831-655-9386 • santacatalina.org Open to girls ages 8-14 in grades 3-9. Summer at Santa Catalina is offering three 2-week sessions for both day and resident campers. Girls will experience a robust program as we balance our class, activity, and community moments to help them build on their own interests, support budding friendships, and challenge them toward growth.

Shoreline Church Summer Day Camp 831-655-0100 shorelinechurch.org We’re turning up the volume at Summer Day Camp to remind each kid that they can have confidence because of Jesus. When kids begin to see themselves the same way that Jesus sees them, then real confidence begins to take root and grow.

Camp held July 26th-30th from 9-11:30 am for kids ages 3 years old 5th grade. Cost is $50 per child. Registration opens April 1st. Register by April 30th for a $15 discount.

Stevenson School stevensonschool.org/summer The summer programs at Stevenson offer students, ages five through 18, an engaging array of academic, athletic, arts, and leadership opportunities. The close proximity to California’s Central Coast, with easy access to both the Pacific Ocean and local mountain ranges, allows campers to flourish through activities like surfing, kayaking, tide-pooling, hiking, and more. Core Leadership offers students a chance to develop keen leadership skills.

York School 831-372-7338 • york.org Engaged. Prepared. Active!

York School Summer Bridge Program is open to students in rising grades 8-12. The program was founded on the idea that high school students will benefit from a summer that “bridges” their pandemic experience into what will likely be a fully in-person return to school in the fall. Programs are offered in four distinct categories: athletics, arts, socio-emotional skill building, and academics.

MONTEREY BAY PARENT • april 2021

SUMMER DAY CAMP JULY 26-30 | 9-11:30 AM 3-Years-Old through 5th Grade | $50 Register at www.shoreline.church Register by April 30th for a $15 discount

2500 Garden Road, Monterey | www.shoreline.church

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Questions To Ask Your Camp Director About COVID-19 With the continuing pandemic parents/ guardians have questions about what camp will look like this summer.

This list of questions and considerations was put together with aid from camp directors across the US to help guide parents in their conversations with camp directors about the upcoming summer.

1. What is your camper drop-off/pickup policy?

Drop-off and pickup might look different this year than it has in years past. To limit exposure, your camp may have implemented a new policy regarding how many people can be at camper drop-off/pickup. Make sure to ask if there have been any changes.

2. Are you changing your staff time-off policies?

Previously, summer camp staff would be able to go offpremises during their time off and between sessions. Ask your camp director if any changes have been made to those policies to help minimize exposure risk.

exposure this summer, which may include limited group activities, changes to mealtimes, and more.

Other Considerations: q Don’t be afraid to reach out. Any question you have is a valid one, and camp directors like having one-on-one conversations with you to discuss your questions and concerns. q Camps may not have all the answers. Many of the answers about what camps will/will not be able to do this summer rely on guidelines and restrictions from state and local health departments. q Refund policies. Ask about your camp’s policy regarding rolling the enrollment to next summer. Or, if your household is in a position to do so, considering reaching out to your camp to let them know that you’d like your enrollment dollars to be a donation instead.

Courtesy of the American Camp Association.

3. What are some things you aren’t doing this summer that you have done in the past?

Some special camp events may not be possible this year due to local restrictions or safety concerns.

4. What conversations are you having with your staff around what will be different this summer?

Most camp directors are looking at ways they can reduce

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21 MONTEREY BAY PARENT • april 2021

SUMMER DAY CAMP CAMP START JUNE 7, 2021

At the YMCA, summer is our favorite time of year!

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by Denise

Green

When camp isn’t an option…

Eight fun activities for families who are choosing to skip camp this summer

Summer is right around the corner and we are anxious to get back to normal summer plans. For some families that will include day or even sleep-away camp. For others, camp isn’t on the agenda for a variety of reasons: a family member with a medical issue who needs to be protected, financial concerns, or camp simply isn’t needed or desired.

Families not choosing camp may want to plan a few special excursions and activities. Luckily we live on the beautiful central coast with access to multiple outdoor options. Here are suggestions for an exciting and enriching summer with the family.

GET OUTSIDE From Pinnacles National Park to Point Lobos and Asilomar State Parks to Toro County Park to your

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neighborhood playground. Make a map and set a goal to visit as many parks as possible together this summer.

Involve your kids by printing a map, adding pins to parks you visited, and creating a family rating system so you can rank parks at the end of summer.

Start early. Assume we will see a return of those busy summer weekends with extra traffic from visitors. Take advantage of living locally by beating tourist traffic and going out early in the day.

BIKE RIDES Rent bikes or a surrey from Adventures by the Sea, rent an open-air mini car from Sea Car Tours, or splurge and rent the iconic red Volkswagen microbus from Monterey Touring Vehicles. This can be an exciting new experience

where you get to cruise around in a different form of transport, appreciate the coastline, and all within your social circle.

Tip: Look at the weather forecast and reserve a few days early for Sea Car Tours.

GO ON A PICNIC If you have missed dining out or your favorite restaurant this past year, get take out and enjoy a meal outdoors. We recently visited Phil’s Fish Market in Moss Landing for take-out and ate at Moss Landing Beach. Simple but felt like such a treat! Plus, we got to make sandcastles.

Call in your order ahead of time. Phil’s gets very busy, especially on nice days.

MONTEREY BAY PARENT • april 2021

SWIMMING At this time, it is unknown if community pools like Carmel Valley Community Youth Center’s pool or Stillwell Children’s Pool at Lover’s Point will open for summer, but there are other options. Go for a dip in the ocean; wetsuits strongly recommended. If you are willing to drive and spend a little, you can also rent a house with a pool through an app like Simply.

Tip: If you are willing to make the drive, Santa Cruz beaches might be a warmer and sunnier option for ocean swimming and a day at the beach.

MAKE PLANS The last year has been filled with cancellations, so making plans is something I have refrained from doing after enough disappointment.

However, having something to look forward to is exciting, even if it is something small. Make a reservation for outdoor dining at a new or favorite restaurant. Book a staycation at a vacation rental. Reserve a time to visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Join a whale watching tour. Ask your children what they would look forward to and make that reservation together.

Tip: Join or renew your Monterey Bay Aquarium membership to support the ocean’s inspiring conservation and for free admission.

ONLINE SHOPPING There are kits parents can purchase to complete handson activities at home. These kits are especially helpful if you feel like planning activities for your children and appropriate for various age levels is too time-consuming.

There are popular national sites such as KiwiCo or Creation Crate, and check out some local options such as kits from Resource Area for Teaching (RAFT) and Bags Full of Science from the Greenfield Community Science Workshop.

Tip: Locate and preview the parent sheets or guides before the kits get completely taken apart. If you get too excited and lose that part, some companies have the parent guides available to access online or download.

READ We can take advantage of summer “boredom” to foster a love of reading. Find the type of books your kids love. Read together as a family. Ask your children to summarize stories and share what they liked or did not like about the books they read. Monterey County Free Libraries have curbside pick-ups available. You can make your book together as a family as a summer project.

Tip: If you live far away from family, a virtual read-aloud video call can help your children and their grandparents or family members feel connected while also making reading special.

GO VIRTUAL There are many virtual summer programs available, some at low or no cost. One strength of this past year of distance learning is that we now have access to a wide variety of virtual programs that are local and national.

Some local organizations offering virtual summer options include Mission Zero through Fused Learning or Boy and Girls Club of Monterey County.

Tip: Keep an eye out for other summer programs such as the Summer Academies from Hartnell College’s K12 STEM Programs that have not released how their programs will operate- in person, virtually, or hybrid.

As you design what summer might look like for your family, try to enjoy the time you get to spend together.

While the pandemic has surfaced many challenges and inequities, as I look back on this year, the time I have spent with my family and living in such a beautiful part of the country with access to the great outdoors yearround has been a gift.

For more spring and summer activity suggestions, check the calendar at MontereyBayParent. com. As more activities open up, we’ll post details on the website.

Denise Green has worked in education for over a decade, specializing in mathematics pedagogy and professional development. She, her husband, and their two rambunctious children reside in the sunny hills off Highway 68.

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How to Plan for a Future Vacation Looking forward a few months to a getaway may be just the thing your family needs to make it through these (hopefully) last months of isolation.

After a long year stuck at home, many people are dreaming about when they can travel once again. While counting down the days may feel like torture, planning and booking a vacation for later this year can give you something to look forward to.

Now may be the perfect time to start thinking about your next adventure. Consider these five tips for planning a future trip - even if you’re not certain exactly when you’ll take it.

1.

Research Travel Restrictions. For any kind of travel, it’s important to make sure you’re up to date on any restrictions your potential destinations may have in place. Though the vaccine may help lessen restrictions in some places, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintain updated guidance and travel warnings based on the risk level of certain areas, which can help you make decisions.

Once you’ve booked travel plans, it is prudent to check in frequently as your trip approaches and prepare a backup plan.

2.

Account for High Demand.

Many hotels, vacation rentals and resorts may already be booked for summer in popular locations due to optimism around the vaccine, increased demand for domestic travel and families planning multiple trips this year.

In fact, travelers are locking in private Vrbo vacation homes at top summer destinations earlier in 2021.

Less than half of vacation homes in some locations are still available for July, which is a more than 25% increase in demand year-over-year. To better your odds of securing your desired travel dates, accommodations and activities, booking earlier can help off-set the increased demand.

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“In years past, we’ve recommended families book their summer vacations by late April to stay ahead of the curve, but this year there are several reasons why families are eager and ready to book,” Vrbo President Jeff Hurst said. “These signs are telling us families should start looking for the perfect vacation home now before options become more limited.”

3.

Take Advantage of Deals with Longer Stays. Many sectors of the travel industry offer special deals for reserving trips in advance, and some of the best deals can be found by bundling airfare and lodging or booking extended week- or monthlong stays. These longer vacations can lead to fewer available dates to choose from, but some travel companies offer search filters that help travelers find discounts for staying longer periods of time.

4.

Opt for Flexible Booking. If you’re eager to plan a vacation right away, be sure to review and understand cancellation policies for your preferred accommodations, airline and activities. Many have changed their policies due to the pandemic, so be sure to know how long you have to cancel or change dates without incurring additional fees or penalties. For example, when booking a vacation rental through Vrbo, where hosts set their cancellation terms, you can use the “free cancellation” filter to search for properties with flexible policies, some of which allow cancellations up to 14 days before check-in for a full refund.

5.

Start Saving Now. While it may not be practical for everyone to save money amid uncertain times, setting even a small amount aside for your vacation can be worthwhile.

Consider setting up a dedicated travel savings account or directing the change from each transaction made with your debit card to a separate account. Being able to periodically check the balance of the account can also help increase excitement for your upcoming adventure.

Find more tips and start planning your next getaway at Vrbo.com.

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orrego Anza B Park State

Glamis

Death

Valley

EpicCalifornia Road Trip

As an avid motorcyclist and RVer, I have traveled through the majority of states in the U.S., some of them quite extensively. Believe me when I say California is probably the most geologically-diverse state in our country.

When people think of California – specifically, California road trips – they usually think about the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, the Golden Gate Bridge, or the Santa Monica Pier.

To many, California means beaches, sunsets, and palm trees. And those are definitely worth seeing. Others head to California for the giant redwoods and stunning mountains at Sequoia or Yosemite National Parks.

But what if you’re in the mood for someplace off the beaten path?

Someplace most people don’t think about when they are visiting our beautiful state? If you’re ready to plan a spring or summer road trip to some unusual places, I have some ideas for you!

Anza Borrego State Park In the Southern California desert, south of Coachella and west of the Salton Sea lies Anza Borrego State Park. Spring wildflowers, canyons, washes, mountains, badlands, and stunning sunsets are there for any adventurous soul willing to look for them. The badlands area looks like something out of a sci-fi movie, while the spring wildflowers leave blankets

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of yellow and purple along the desert floor. If you have a four-wheel-drive, there are plenty of easy trails to follow.

If you don’t, there are hundreds of hiking trails. Hotels are sparse, so I’d advise making this a day-trip from the Coachella area.

On the other side of the Salton Sea, not too far from Anza Borrego is a man-made curiosity called Salvation Mountain. The mountain was built by Leonard Knight out of junk: old tires, and items dumped in the desert. Mr. Knight covered the items over with sand and cement and painted his creation with bright colors, adding flowers and scripture along the way.

For 25 years, his creation was an ongoing project until he died in 2014.

In front of the sculpture is the old 1936 truck that Mr. Knight lived in for over two decades. The mountain has now become the center of several impromptu sculpture gardens created by unknown artists. Nearby is Slab City, described as an “off-the-grid squatter community.” People who live there have built walls out of bottles and sculptures out of car parts and other metal. This place is definitely worth the side trip if you’re in the area.

Glamis Heading south from Salton Sea, then east on Highway 78, you’ll come across something you’d never expect to see in Southern California: giant sand dunes. Once you’re there, you

may recognize them from numerous car commercials over the years. They were also the filming location of the dune buggy scenes in Jumanji: The Next Level and the Sarlacc Pit battle in 1983’s Star Wars: Return of the Jedi. If you don’t have an off-road vehicle, you won’t be able to get into the dunes themselves. But the view at sunset from the top of Osborne Overlook is breathtaking. The turnoff for the outlook is right off the main highway and is easy to find. It is a short driveway that crosses the “sand highway” and heads up to Osborne Overlook’s top. The view is worth the effort it takes to get there.

Death Valley National Park Directly east of Sequoia National Park is a lesser-known park: Death Valley National Park. Death Valley is a land of extremes. At 282 feet below sea level, it is the lowest point in the United States. In the winter, snow often frosts the tops of the mountains.

Yet, in the summer, it is regularly the hottest place on the continent.

In the spring, colorful desert flowers brighten up the landscape. From otherworldly landscapes like the salt flats to curiosities like the Racetrack Playa, where you can see the “sliding rocks” and the trails they leave behind, there are so many things to see in what is the largest National Park in the contiguous United States. Hiking and off-road trails abound, and there MONTEREY BAY PARENT • april 2021

ne istleco r B t n Ancie ne Forest Pi

Mon

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ic Volcan Lassen nal Park Natio

If you’ve ever wanted to visit California destinations that are off the beaten path, this spring or summer is the perfect time for a road trip of a lifetime! are oasis areas and old borax and gold mines. There are hotels inside the park, but reservations are highly recommended.

Highway 395/ The Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest If you leave Death Valley by way of Highway 190 and head west to Highway 395, you are in for several treats. The drive up Highway 395 is beautiful from the Ridgecrest area to Lake Tahoe. And there is so much to see on that stretch.

Some of the greatest road trips are off the beaten path, and I encourage you to take your time. Stop to watch the horses in the meadows or get some fresh fruit from a roadside stand.

In Bishop, stop at Schat’s Bakkery (yes, it’s spelled that way!) for some fresh Sheepherder Bread. It’s nothing short of amazing.

As you head up Highway 395, several side trips are worth the break.

The Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest is a great place to learn about just how old the area is.

Devils Postpile and Mono Lake Further north, a trip off the highway to Devils Postpile is interesting although getting there isn’t all that easy. Where Highway 395 intersects with Lee Vining is Mono Lake. The lake was formed at least 760,000 years ago.

With no natural outlet for the water, the saltwater lake continues to rise, MONTEREY BAY PARENT • april 2021

and the water is too alkaline to swim in or drink. But the views are surreal and stunning.

Lassen Volcanic National Park If you are willing to drive even further up Highway 395, you’ll hit the little city of Susanville. Just northwest of that is another less popular park – Lassen Volcanic National Park. Lassen is one of the few areas where all four types of volcano can be found – plug dome, shield, cinder cone, and stratovolcano.

Steam vents, boiling springs, and bubbling mud pots remain active.

The volcano is still active but has not erupted for over 100 years. If you are taking any budding geologists on a road trip this summer, this is a mustsee park.

memories all of the places they have been with me and their grandparents.

As a parent and now as a grandparent, I keep in mind that experiences are what kids remember. New places and new experiences are what fill their minds with possibilities and dreams, and questions–so many questions!

Isn’t it time for an adventure with your family? I say it’s time to hit the road less traveled with the kids!

Disclaimer: several of the recommended destinations are in the desert, which becomes quite hot after spring. Always travel with plenty of water, snacks, and a roadside emergency plan. As always, check online for road closures and park closures before heading out.

I have traveled the country with my family on our Harleys, and my dad instilled in us a strict policy of no interstates.

(He must have been a Robert Frost fan, always taking the road “less traveled by.”) We have gone all the way to Canada from Southern California on twoat lane highways. My mily th The fa ether . . . children, who are og rides t now adults, still recall with warm

tricia vlasAK is a mother, grandparent, and wife. She works in law enforcement when she isn’t writing about parenting, hiking with her dogs, or going on adventures.

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EXPO TO G Saturday, April 10 10 am to 2 pm Del Monte Center, Monterey • Register for your FREE ticket at MontereyBayParent.com • Bring your ticket to the Expo Booth on the day of the event to pick up your reusable shopping bag filled with summer camp info, little gifts, and more.

• Get a fun take-home arts & crafts project from Del Monte Center • MY Museum and Safe Routes to School will be giving out a backpack to each family filled with fun activities.

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• Look for the Poptopia Balloon installation to take gorgeous spring-themed selfies (and enter the Instagram photo contest!)

• Call 831-582-1373 or email abreznay@montereybayparent.com for information.

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Chartwell’s Extended School Year Summer Program June 18 - July 16, 2021 Online and On Campus Options MORNING PROGRAM CORE Morning Program includes: Reading Math Structured Literacy STEAM AFTERNOON OFFERINGS Reading Clinic Hiking Theater Robotics Art and Music

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MONTEREY BAY PARENT • april 2021