April 2018 Monterey Bay Parent

April 2018

We’re celebrating

EARTH DAY!

Activities for the entire family plus local Earth Day events Tatum’s Garden Making play accessible for all asthma Camp Kids learn to cope with their condition while having fun MONTEREY BAY PARENT • april 2018

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Contents April 2017

in each issue:

features:

4 From the Publisher

6 The Monterey Bay Parent Family Fun Expo is April 28th!

Our first event will be held on Saturday, April 28th. You do NOT want to miss this!

08 Military Mom Katie Begley discusses topics of importance to military families.

10 Reel Life With Jane Jane Boursaw reviews movies for the entire family.

on the cover…

12 Earth Day 2018 Five conservation activities for your family plus local Earth Day events. by Nicole Amaral 14 A Breath of Fresh Air Kids with asthma learn how to cope with their condition while having fun at summer camp.

16 Tatum’s Garden: Making play accessible for every child.

by Bayley Freeman 18 Autism Diagnosis in Adults Author Sally Pla talks about being diagnosed with autism as an adult. by Sally Pla 20 Kids and Anxiety Tips for parents on helping children cope with new situations and new fears. by Dr. Kathryn Keithly

Find the best events for your family!

Payton Sardina was born in Monterey. He loves balls, trucks, and pestering his big sister. He is always on the go and never wants to sit still. His mom works in recreation and his father is a firefighter.

Cover photo by Donna Jean Shoemaker 831-620-2878

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24 April Events The best family-friendly events for April from throughout Monterey and Santa Cruz counties.

25 Best of April Check out our recommended April events for a month of family fun.

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from the publisher…

We’re now an awardwinning publication (and it’s GOLD!) Monterey Bay Parent Magazine is a member of the Parenting Media Association–a trade group for magazines with members from the United States and several other countries. As part of membership, we are monitored to be sure we meet the organization’s standards including the percentage of ads to editorial and adherence to journalistic ethics and norms.

I recently attended the yearly conference of PMA members and am incredibly proud to report that Monterey Bay Parent Magazine won the Gold Award for excellence in social media. The judges noted that we use social media to build an interactive community by offering our readers a one-stop source for the information they need and want both online and in our print issues. For a magazine in its infancy to be honored like this is pretty amazing. I am so proud of our entire team but want to mention Nicole Amaral. Nicole is the driving force behind our Facebook group, posting all sorts of useful information and keeping all of us up to date on the best events in our community. Nicole also keeps the online and print calendars filled with community events and writes an article or two every month. She wasn’t with me at the awards ceremony to receive the award, so we recently had our own where I presented her with a copy of the official certificate. Nicole, thank you from the bottom of my heart for all that you do to serve the parents in our community. You rock!

April is Autism Awareness Month and, we’re happy to participate by bringing you an article from author Sally Pla. Sally was diagnosed with autism as an adult and tells her unique story on pages 18-19. We’re giving away two sets of Pla’s books for young readers on our website so be sure to head to MontereyBayParent.com to enter to win.

We’re also highlighting the special needs of children with asthma with an article about a unique summer camp that helps them learn to cope with their condition (pages 14-15). Finally, if your child is anxious about summer camp–or any new activity–check out our article on children and anxiety on pages 20-21.

Andrea Breznay Publisher

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Monterey Bay

PARENT

P.O. Box 806 Pacific Grove, CA 93950 MontereyBayParent.com 831-582-1373

Publisher Andrea Breznay abreznay@montereybayparent.com 831-582-1373 Advertising Sales katie begley Monterey Peninsula gbegley@montereybayparent.com 831-275-5401 Andrea Breznay Salinas and Santa Cruz abreznay@montereybayparent.com 831-582-1373 Calendar Editor Nicole Amaral Cover Photographer Donna Jean Shoemaker Contributing Writers nicole amaraL katie begley Jane Boursaw bayley freeman dr. kathryn keithly Sally Pla 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 ©2018 by Monterey Bay Parent, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

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SUMMER FUN SINCE 1984!

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Summer fun July in July!

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For children who have BEAR CAMP completed For children who have K-1st through completed 3rd grade K-1st thru 3rd grade.

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Cub Camp has flexible schedules

Foraa brochure brochure or or more information call or email For more information call Camp Carmel 831-625-0545 or 831-659-3402 831-625-0545 or 831-659-3402 or email campcarmel@comcast.net campcarmel@comcast.net

Don’t Miss The Monterey Bay Parent Family Fun Expo April 28!

I

t’s been a whirlwind year for all of us at Monterey Bay Parent Magazine. Last year at this time we were busy getting our website built, planning the first issues, and introducing ourselves to the Monterey Bay community. This year, in addition to producing a print issue each month, we’re also planning the first Monterey Bay Parent Magazine Family Fun Expo!

This special event will be held at the Monterey County Fairgrounds from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 28. Families will be able to spend the day visiting representatives from a variety of local businesses and organizations.

At press time, we are almost sold out of booths. The businesses and organizations signed up range from private schools to summer camps to medical practitioners.

The first 250 people who register online (check MontereyBayParent.com for the link) and present their ticket at the event will receive a goody bag with a variety of giveaways. Also, random bags have gift certificates and gift cards valued at up to $50!

The Monterey Bay Parent Family Fun Expo is free to attend. There will be activities for children including arts & crafts and face painting. The event is held inside the exhibition hall so rain will not change the date!

Please stop by the Monterey Bay Parent Magazine booth at the entrance to the event to say hello and meet our staff.

For additional info or to book one of the last available booths, please call 831-5821373.

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Monterey Bay Parent

Family Fun Expo Saturday, April 28 10:00 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Monterey County Fairgrounds ip sorsh ies n o p S it rtun Oppo ilable Ava

Vendors plus Crafts for Kids Prizes & Giveaways FUN FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

Now accepting booth reservations!

If your business or organization serves children and families, this event is for YOU! • art classes • Attractions • Birthday Entertainers • chiropractors • counselors • Dance Studios • dentists • Gymnastics • martial arts studios • Museums • Music teachers • Nonprofits • physicians • preschools • private schools • Realtors • Restaurants • Retail stores • sports teams • summer camps • tutors & more!

To reserve your booth, call TODAY! Limited number of booths available.

www.MontereyBayParent.com or call 831-582-1373 for info.

Check

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Military mom

Happy Month of the

Military Child!

Every April, military communities all around the world come together to celebrate the youngest heroes in our military families—the kids!

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M

ilitary families from all branches of service come to Monterey. Some military kids, like mine, are even born in Monterey.

Our local military community will be going all out to celebrate military kids this month. Join the Presidio of Monterey’s Child, Youth, and School Services on April 7th at the Porter Youth Center in Seaside to kickoff the month of celebrations.

From 10:00 – 1:00, your kids will be able to enjoy bounce houses, local vendors, and even a VIP visit from the Fire Department! Best of all, this event is free and open to the public. One of the most difficult challenges facing military kids as they move from place to place is feeling a connection to the local community. Let’s all get out to celebrate!

The Naval Postgraduate School Morale, Welfare, and Recreation Department are also celebrating with an Outdoor Arcade and Superhero Fun Run on April 11th.

Come dressed as your favorite superhero or your favorite military kid—because they are superheroes, too! The event starts at the Tech Connection in the La Mesa housing community and goes from 1:30 – 4:30. The free, stroller-friendly run begins at 3:00.

The event is in partnership with the Fleet and Family Support Center, a resource for new parents or parents new to the Monterey area.

Want to do even more to cele-

brate the military children in your life? April 13th is PURPLE UP day.

Wear purple to show your support for military children. Purple is the perfect combination of Army green, Marine Corps red and Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard blue. Don your favorite shade to celebrate your favorite military kid. Appreciation certificates are another great way to highlight the role military kids play in our community.

Follow Presidio Child, Youth, and School Services on Facebook to learn about all the ways they are celebrating the military child this April. Visit www.monterey.navylifesw.com for upcoming MWR events. Check out #MonthoftheMilitaryChild on your favorite social media platform to connect with the celebration of these amazing kids on a broader scale. The Military Child Education Coalition’s celebration Toolkit can be found at www. militarychild.org/momc-tool-kit.

Thank you to all the military kids in our Monterey community and around the world. You rock!

Katie Begley is a Navy veteran and military spouse. Katie is an advertising sales executive for Monterey Bay Parent Magazine. She is the mother of 1-year-old and fourmonth-old sons.

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real life with jane

By

Jane Boursaw

Movie Reviews For Kids & Teens Movies for kids and teens in April feature adorable pandas, curious dolphins, determined volleyball players, avenging superheroes and more. Let’s take a closer look.

THE MIRACLE SEASON Rated PG for some thematic elements. In Theaters 4/6.

Ok for kids 8+.

Reel Review: 4 of 5 Reels.

Based on the inspiring true story of West High School’s volleyball team, this movie is directed by Sean McNamara and stars Helen Hunt, William Hurt, Danika Yarosh and Erin Moriarty. After the tragic death of the school’s star player Caroline “Line” Found, the remaining team players must band together under the guidance of their tough-love coach in hopes of winning the state championship.

PANDAS Rated G. In Theaters 4/6.

Ok for kids 6+.

Reel Preview: 4 of 5 Reels.

This documentary from Warner Bros. takes place at Chengdu Panda Base in China, where scientists are dedicated to protecting the species by breeding adult Giant Pandas in order to introduce cubs into the wild.

The film follows one such researcher whose passion leads her to initiate a new

technique inspired by a black bear program in rural New Hampshire.

What starts as a cross-culture collaboration becomes a life-changing journey for an American biologist who crosses an ocean to join her; a scientist from Inner Mongolia; and a very curious female cub named Qian Qian, born in captivity. This film is narrated by Kristen Bell.

SGT. STUBBY: AN AMERICAN HERO Rated PG for war action and some thematic elements. In theaters 4/13.

Ok for kids 7+.

Reel Preview: 4 of 5 Reels.

This animated family movie chronicles the true story of a stray bull terrier mutt and the lasting bond he forged with the doughboys of the 26th “Yankee” Division at the onset of America’s entry into World War I. For his valorous actions, Stubby was the first dog promoted to the rank of Sergeant in U.S. Army history. Featuring the voice talent of Gerard Depardieu and Hele-

serious fun

na Bonham Carter, this movie has been selected as an official project of the U.S. World War I Centennial Commission.

DUCK DUCK GOOSE Not yet rated; likely PG. In Theaters 4/20. Ok for kids 6+.

Reel Preview: 3.5 of 5 Reels.

This animated family movie centers on a high-flying bachelor goose named Peng (voiced by Jim Gaffigan) who is injured in flight and finds himself saddled with two adorably hilarious and demanding ducklings (voiced by Zendaya and Lance Lim). On their long journey south, the scrappy threesome just might turn into a family. This movie features the voice talent of Carl Reiner, Stephen Fry, Jennifer Grey and Molly Shannon.

DOLPHINS Rated G. In theaters 4/20.

Ok for kids 6+.

Reel Preview: 4 of 5 Reels.

This 12th film in DisneyNature’s documentary series centers on a dolphin named Echo, a youngster who can’t quite decide if it’s time to grow up and take on new respon-

2018 SUMMER GOLF LESSON KICK OFF The AT&T Pebble Beach Junior Golf Association “The Central Coast’s Most Longstanding Community Junior Golf Program” Sign up at Del Monte Golf Course Saturday June 2 • 10:30 am-12:30 pm • Series includes 5, 1-hour small group lessons • For ages 6 through 17 • Taught by local golf professionals at participating courses • $40 for each 5-lesson series ($8 a lesson) Non-members can join ($35) the Junior Golf Association at registration.

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ful Thanos before his blitz of devastation and ruin puts an end to the universe. Directed by Anthony Russo and Joe Russo, this movie stars Robert Downey Jr. as Iron Man, Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye, Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow, Elizabeth Olsen as Scarlet Witch, Chris Hemsworth as Thor, and Mark Ruffalo as The Hulk.

sibilities or give in to his silly side and just have fun. Dolphin society is tricky, and the coral reef that Echo and his family call home depends on all of its inhabitants to keep it healthy. But Echo has a tough time resisting the many adventures the ocean has to offer.

ANIMAL CRACKERS Not yet rated; likely PG. In theaters 4/27. Ok for kids 7+.

Reel Preview: 3.5 of 5 Reels.

This animated family movie centers on a workaholic dad who finds himself stuck in a nowhere job and

AVENGERS: INFINITY WAR Not yet rated; likely PG-13.

In theaters 4/27. Ok for kids 13+.

Reel Preview: 4.5 of 5 Reels.

This third installment of the Avengers franchise follows the Superhero allies after they’ve triumphed over Loki. Now they must decide whether to sacrifice everything as they attempt to defeat the power-

inheriting a rundown circus from a distant relative he hardly knew. On the brink of losing his job, his house and his sanity, he uncovers a magical box of Animal Crackers that gives him the uncanny ability to become any animal from the box. This movie features the voice talent of Emily Blunt, John Krasinski, Danny DeVito and Sylvester Stallone.

JANE’S REEL RATING SYSTEM 1 Reel: Even the force can’t save it.

2 Reels: Coulda been a contender.

3 Reels: Something to talk about.

4 Reels: You want the truth? Great flick!

5 Reels: Wow! The stuff dreams are made of.

AFFORDABLE AFFORDABLE

Jane Louise Boursaw is the editor of ReelLifeWithJane.com and OldMission.net.

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celebrations

By

E

Nicole Amaral

arth Day is celebrated on April 22 of each year. This is a day not only to honor our wonderful Earth but to show support for a variety of environmental concerns and ways we can help keep Earth healthy and clean.

How can we teach today’s youth how to preserve our precious resources? Here are a few ideas that I thought may not only be beneficial to our Earth but fun at the same time.

1.

Recycle. Make sure you purchase a recycling bin and separate recyclable items from your garbage.

Some cities offer a recycling program where the bins are picked up on the same day as the trash. If you take the items to a recycling center, older kids love to be in charge of sorting the recyclables, especially if they get to keep the redemption fees.

The Monterey Recycle Facility completed an improvement project and re-opened this past February.

The MRF processes recyclables collected from the Monterey Peninsula region, construction and demolition debris, and commercial mixed waste. The MRF also receives clean loads of source separated green and wood waste, mattresses, and tires.

Check out the Monterey Recycle Facility online at www.mrwmd. org/recycling to schedule a tour of the new facility.

pet droppings, bones, milk, diseased plants, cheese or oils. For more information and tips on composting check out https://aggiehorticulture.tamu.edu/earthkind/ files/2010/10/compost.pdf Want to attend a free local bilingual composting workshop? There is one coming up on Saturday, April 14 from 10-11:30 am at Jardin El Sol-139 Sun Street in Salinas. Register at www.SalinasValleyRecycles. org or call (831) 775-3000.

2.

3.

Compost. Composting is fun and easy for people of all ages! You can recycle leaves and other plant materials at home by setting up a compost bin. You will need air, water, brown stuff that contains carbon (dead, dried plant parts like leaves and pine needles) and green stuff that contains nitrogen (fresh living parts like grass clippings, kitchen vegetable scraps, weeds and other plants).

Make sure not to use meat, fat, 12

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Earth Day 2018 Five conservation activities for your family.

The Million Pollinator Garden Challenge. Pollinators are responsible for 1 out of 3 bites of food we take each day. More nectar and pollen sources would help improve their health and numbers. Increasing the number of pollinatorfriendly gardens and landscapes will help revive the health of bees, butterflies, birds, bats and other pollinators across the country.

How can you and your family help? Plant a pollinator garden! You

can also support pollinator friendly businesses in the community. Reducing or eliminating the impact of pesticides on pollinators, conserving water and providing an overall healthy habitat is something everyone can help accomplish. Visit http://millionpollinatorgardens.org/ for more information on how to take the Million Pollinator Garden Challenge.

4.

Beach Clean-up. In the past 25 years, over 144,606,491 pounds of trash has been collected off of beaches world-wide from Alaska to New Zealand. Taking part in beach clean-ups is a great way to keep the oceans healthy for generations to come. Now that my son is older, this is our favorite volunteer activity. Kids of all ages can participate as long as they are accompanied by an adult or guardian.

Check out these awesome organizations that plan beach-clean ups

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throughout the year: Save Our Shores: http://saveourshores.org/volunteer/ Surfrider Foundation: https://monterey.surfrider.org/ California Coastal Commission: www.coastal.ca.gov/publiced/ccd/ ccd.html MEarth: http://mearthcarmel.org/

5.

Friends’ Community Bookstore in Marina. Since the bookstore’s grand opening in the fall, this has become a regular stop for my family. Not only are used books easier on your budget, they are better for the environment. The bookstore located off of Reservation Road, has low-cost books of all genres. They also boast a neat collection of used DVDs and CDs. You’ll also find a decent sized children’s section and even a play room. They are open Tuesday-Sunday 10-4pm. Volunteers and donations of books, DVDs, CDs etc. are always needed. www.friendsofthemarinalibrary. org/?q=community-bookstore

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Earth Day 2018 Celebrations Saturday, April 8 • 9-1 pm Marina’s Annual Earth Day Locke Paddon Park, Marina c4smarina.weebly.com Thursday, April 19 • 10-2 pm Monterey Peninsula College Earth Day 2018 Near the campus flag pole 980 Fremont Street, Monterey www.mpc.edu

Saturday, April 21 • 8-1 pm 2018 Natividad Creek Cleanup 8-12 pm Virginia Rocca Barton School 680 Las Casitas Drive, Salinas http://svswa.org/wp-content/ uploads/2018-Natividad-CreekCleanup-Flyer.pdf Saturday, April 21 • 2 pm Earth Day Celebration Monterey Public Library 625 Pacific St, Monterey, 93940 831-646-3933

Saturday, April 21 • 10-4 pm MEarth Day Hilton Bialek Habitat 4380 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Sunday, April 22 • Place & Time http://mearthcarmel.org/events/ TBA Earth Day Event in Seaside mearth-day-2018/ www.sustainablemontereycounty. org/local-action-groups/sustainSaturday, April 21 • 11-4 pm able-seaside/ Earth Day Santa Cruz 2018 San Lorenzo Park Saturday, April 28 137 Dakota Street, Santa Cruz & Sunday, April 29 • 9-5pm https://scearthday.org Moss Landing Marine Laboratories Open House Saturday, April 21 • 8-1 pm 8272 Moss Landing Road, Dive In Earth Day 2018 Moss Landing Del Monte Beach 653 Del Monte Avenue, Monterey www.mlml.calstate.edu/openhouse/schedule/ www.dreamdiver.com/dive-inearth-day/

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summer camp

Kids with Asthma learn how to cope with their condition while having fun!

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A Breath of Fresh Air 14

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hen Sienna Miller showed up for her summer camp experience, she knew this one-week adventure would be different than anything she had ever experienced. As she looked around, she saw boys and girls of different ages, backgrounds and personalities. They all had one thing in common though, something they would likely live with for the rest of their lives - asthma.

“Asthma Camp educates you about your asthma and how you’re not alone with your asthma,” says Sienna Miller, a participant of the camp.

The Mark Velcoff, MD Asthma Camp offers children age six to twelve living with mild to severe asthma, the unique opportunity to learn how to better manage their condition in a fun and active environment. All of the campers and adult supervisors understand the impact of this often life changing respiratory condition.

Every summer the camp is held at a school in Salinas and the people overseeing the children are physicians and clinical personnel from Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System and trained staff from Central Coast YMCA. The campers get hands-on learning and a week of outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, softball and even yoga. The YMCA team coordinates the games and field trips while the classroom

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instruction is planned out and taught by clinical personnel from Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital including physicians, allergists, immunologists, respiratory therapists, and nurses.

Sometimes the campers get to meet famous athletes like bobsledder and three-time Winter Olympian and Monterey native Nick Cunningham. When Cunningham visited Asthma Camp he talked about bobsledding, the difficulties of the sport and of perseverance. He even brought his bobsled to show the kids.

Cunningham’s main message to campers - you can accomplish anything you set your mind to, regardless of obstacles.

During the past three decades hundreds of children have learned important lessons, such as what triggers their asthma. It can be triggered by emotional anxiety and stress, weather conditions, allergens, pet dander, mold and even certain kinds of food. Campers also learn about the importance of the medication they may take and how asthma affects their entire bodies. The most important lesson they learn is that they can take an active role in controlling their asthma.

“We are thrilled to be able to offer this camp for children with asthma,” says Steven Prager, MD, Camp Medical Director. “Our camp empowers children with asthma, giving them a unique experience and profoundly affecting them for the rest of their lives.”

Every year up to forty children participate in the Mark Velcoff, MD Asthma Camp. At the start of camp, all participants get a T-shirt, water bottle, fanny pack and valuable workbook outlining a week of activities, tools to remember and a place to track their success.

On the final day, there is a camp Olympics with obstacle courses and a graduation ceremony with lunch.

As for Sienna Miller, she learned that while she is living with asthma, it doesn’t have to hold her back.

She left Asthma Camp with great memories and new friends. She is now using what she learned to manage her condition and is enjoying an active childhood.

“I have learned that you can still do things other kids can do with asthma,” says Miller.

“Asthma Camp is really awesome!”

The Mark Velcoff, MD Asthma Camp is sponsored by Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System and by Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. This year, the camp will take place from July 16 - 20 from 9am to 3pm and includes an overnight camp experience. The cost for the week long camp is $55 per child and scholarships are available. More information is available online at svmh.com/asthmacamp.

To register or for more information call 831757-3627.

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special needs

Tatum’s Garden

By

Bayley Freeman

Making play accessible for every child

T

atum’s Garden is a fullyaccessible, fully-inclusive outdoors playground located in Salinas, the first of its kind in Monterey County. It was the brainchild of Shawn and Amanda Bakker, whose youngest daughter, Tatum, was born with Spina Bifida in 2010. Tatum uses a wheelchair, and her parents struggled to find playgrounds where Tatum could enjoy playing alongside her older siblings. Then, on a vacation in Idaho, the Bakker family stumbled upon a fully-inclusive playground; for the first time, they watched kids of all abilities play together on play structures, side by side. They were so inspired by this experience that they decided to do whatever it took to have something similar back home in Salinas. With Tatum’s Garden, the Bakkers’ mis-

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sion was to provide their daughter and other area children who use wheelchairs an awesome place to play.

The mission of Tatum’s Garden is to provide inclusive play areas for all children, regardless of their ability. The Bakkers secured the land for Tatum’s Garden by winning approval from the Salinas City Council to build on a four-acre abandoned parking lot adjacent to Sherwood Park. Once they had the location set, the steering committee visited local elementary schools to brainstorm ideas for the playground’s design and theme. The next step was raising money, and they were wildly successful. The Bakkers raised $1 million to build the playground. That money came from large corporate

sponsorships and lots of smaller, community-based fundraising efforts (like selling t-shirts). Amanda tells me, “One of the biggest obstacles for us was keeping up with the fast pace which the support we received demanded. When we set out, we thought maybe it might take a few years to raise the $1 million we were shooting for...but no, our community raised it in seven short months! They were behind us all the way, and ready for construction. It was a major whirlwind!”

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The playground itself was built during an all-out community volunteer effort over ten days in September 2013, an effort that Amanda calls “tremendously supportive.” Over 3,000 people showed up to pitch in and help construct the play structures, paint murals, move gravel, and create a grassy park area around the playground with benches and restrooms. Amanda says, “We were amazed to have volunteers showing up from every single zip code in Monterey County, from all socioeconomic backgrounds, from ages 10-99 years old!

(Literally, we had a 99-year-old woman out there helping us!).” Local artists donated their time and talent to making Tatum’s If you are interested in Garden a uniquely volunteering to help with a decorated place, Community Cleanup day and it is fun to walk at Tatum’s Garden, sign up around and spot all at www.tatumsgarden.org the different artistic or check out Tatum’s Garden flourishes adorning on Facebook. the park. All the art and many of the play structures play on an agricultural theme, an ode to the Salinas Valley. There are painted vegetables, a play farm stand, and a tractor, among other thematic elements. It is a place that beckons a family to stay all day, picnicking, playing, and relaxing—or frequent after school lets out to get kids’ wiggles out.

Five years after Tatum’s Garden was built, it is thriving, and it is still supported by the community. Every month, there a Community Cleanup day, where 25-50 volunteers show up to sanitize benches and picnic tables, pull weeds, pick up litter, and wipe down the play structures. Amanda says, “It amazes us how much the community has taken ownership of this place, and I attribute it to the fact that they helped fund and then literally build it, so they continue to care for it.”

As for the Bakkers, their lives have been improved by the building and maintaining of the playground. “It is so much fun for the three siblings to have this amazing place to play together where Tatum can fully participate with them,” Amanda says, adding that “It has also impacted [Tatum], and hopefully other students like her with special needs, to have this place be a potential destination for class field trips. She can play with her classmates here in ways she struggles to at school.”

Tatum was only two years old when Tatum’s Garden was built, so she doesn’t remember a world without it.

The Bakkers hope that she grows up knowing that her community values her and all kids with special needs, in fact, “so much that they came together in an unprecedented way to create this sanctuary of inclusion.”

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SPRING

Birth & Baby Fair April 28th 1:00 to 4:00 pm YMCA of the Monterey Peninsula A FREE event for new and expecting parents.

Meet local birth & parenting professionals including doctors, midwives, doulas, photographers, educators, and more. Connect with local parenting resources & groups. Demonstrations & raffles. birthnetworkmonterey@gmail.com birthnetworkofmonterey.com/ parent-events montereybayparent.com

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special needs

Sally J. Pla

By

Autism Diagnosis In Adults Author Sally Pla talks about being diagnosed with autism as an adult.

W

hen I tell friends I was recently diagnosed with autism, some of them scoff and call it nonsense. They say I function fine, that I smile, laugh, and socialize. I’m a mother who is active in the lives of my three sons; I have published two novels, and have spoken publicly at conferences and schools across the country.

In sum, I don’t fit the preconception.

I can understand where they’re coming from. Many, when they think about autism, picture an awkward teenage boy who has trouble making eye contact and is obsessed with gaming.

But, as the old saying goes: If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism.

When I was little, I felt like I watched the world from inside a glass box. It never occurred to me

to try to connect with what was happening outside it. I didn’t really think of myself as having any sort of role to play. I was just a set of eyes and ears.

Time passed, however, and by the age of ten or eleven, I started to want to connect. I observed more carefully. I studied others, their body language, their laughter.

For the most part, my mimicry was unconscious. Other times, it was deliberate. For example, a certain teacher had this bright, happy way of saying “Hi!” that made you feel good inside. I remember deliberately deciding to say “Hi!” to everyone I knew in that same happy way.

Sometimes, I’d get things wrong and be bullied – even by “friends,” which was tragic and bewildering.

I desperately wanted the world to be a decent, clear, golden-rulefollowing sort of place. Of course, I

learned it wasn’t.

Eventually, I more or less shed the glass box. I grew up, got a job, got married, and had three wonderful sons. One of them was diagnosed with Asperger’s at age 11.

It took me until my kids were practically full grown, in order for me to get it -- to look back on my life with a clearer lens, and realize that it might not be just my son who was bringing the joys and challenges of autism into our family.

I started to figure it out while I was writing The Someday Birds, my first novel. It’s about an autistic boy on a long journey in search of his father, and how he learns to feel more at ease in the world. At first, I thought I was writing as a heart-gift for my son. But I soon realized that the voice emerging from the pages sounded an awful lot like that little girl from long ago.

So-called “higher-functioning”

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autistic women are relatively rare birds. And the reason for this, I think, is that we remain undiagnosed. We fly under the radar, blend in.

Growing evidence is telling us that autistic women are sometimes deeply empathetic, and eager to be involved in the world. We observe social cues more carefully than males. We camouflage our symptoms.

We don’t fit stereotypes. We can be champion chameleons.

But life as a chameleon can be exhausting.

I need a lot of downtime in which to “detox” from public events. I jump with panic when my phone rings -- then take a deep breath, and answer so calmly, you’d never know. Trips to the store often end with me heading home because I can’t take the sensory overload.

That’s just a very few of the daily surface challenges. But I love connecting out in the world, so I go, and do. I’ve just got to find the right balance, to learn when to push, and when to recoup.

It’s not always easy.

The only one who wasn’t surprised by my recent diagnosis was my mother. She took my hand and said, “I always suspected it was something like that.” My mom is an extremely sensitive introvert who also had issues as a child. Between you and me, I suspect she also might be somewhere on the spectrum.

But here’s the thing: It’s a wide spectrum. Autism takes as many different forms as the people it affects.

Autism is a human condition, emphasis on the word human. I hope we can learn to expand our definitions of all the various, beautiful, different and/or challenging ways that autistic brains work in this world. To accept them, and make room for them all.

Sally J. Pla in an award-winning author of two middle-grade books. Find out more about Sally’s work at sallyjpa.com

WIN!

We’re giving away two sets of author Sally J. Pla’s books.

Both winners will receive a copy of “The Someday Birds” and “Stanley Will Probably Be Fine.”

To enter go to:

MontereyBayParent.com and click on contest link.

Drawing will be held on April 15 at 5 pm. Complete rules on website.

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Kids & Anxiety

Tips for parents on helping children cope with new situations and new fears.

I

t’s natural for children to express fear about new experiences especially when the activity involves being away from home and family. Anxiety at summer camp, for instance, can keep your child from forming new friendships or participating in fun activities. If your child is anxiously anticipating any new experience, there are concrete ways you can help your child prepare and then cope once they are in the new situation.

Symptoms of anxiety: If your child has just one or two symptoms or if the symptoms only pop up around new situations, a conversation and some help developing coping skills will probably suffice. Keep in mind, though, that continued persistent anxiety requires professional diagnosis and the help of an outside expert.

Symptoms of anxiety include: • Recurrent excessive distress when separation from home or

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•

•

• •

•

• •

major attachment figures occurs (or is anticipated).

Persistent, excessive worry about losing major attachment figures (or something harmful happening to them).

Persistent and excessive worry that something traumatic will lead to separation from a major attachment figure (e.g., being kidnapped).

Persistent reluctance or refusal to go to school or other places because of fear of separation.

Persistent or excessive fear or reluctance to be alone or without major attachment figures at home or in other settings.

Persistent reluctance or refusal to go to sleep without being near a major attachment figure (or to sleep away from home).

Repeated nightmares involving separation.

Repeated complaints of physical symptoms (e.g. headaches, stomachaches, vomiting) when

separated from major attachment figures (or separation is anticipated).

Ten tips for parents on helping an ancious child (modified from Childmind.org) 1. The goal isn’t to eliminate anxiety, but to help a child manage it. None of us wants to see our child unhappy, but the best way to help kids overcome anxiety isn’t to try to remove stressors that trigger it. It’s to help them learn to tolerate their anxiety and function even when they’re anxious. As a byproduct of that, the anxiety will decrease or fall away over time.

2. Don’t avoid things just because they make a child anxious. Helping children avoid the things they are afraid of will make them feel better in the short term, but it reinforces the MONTEREY BAY PARENT • april 2018

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anxiety over the long run. Parents swooping in to remove a child from a scary situation reinforces that there is something to fear and the child can quickly learn to use avoidance as a coping mechanism.

3. Express positive—but realistic—expectations. You can’t promise a child that her fears are unrealistic—that she’ll have fun every day of summer camp, for instance. But you can express confidence that she’s going to be okay, she will be able to manage it, and that, as she faces her fears, the anxiety level will drop over time.

4. Respect your child’s feelings, but don’t empower them. It’s important to understand that validation doesn’t always mean agreement. If a child is terrified of going to the doctor because she’s due for a shot, you don’t want to belittle her fears, but you also don’t want to amplify them. The message you want to send is, “I know you’re scared, and that’s okay, and I’m here, and I’m going to help you get through this.”

5. Don’t ask leading questions.

Encourage your child to talk about her feelings, but try not to ask leading questions like “Are you anxious about the big test?” To avoid feeding the cycle of anxiety, just ask open-

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ended questions: “How do you feel about the science fair?”

6. Don’t reinforce the child’s fears. What you don’t want to do is be saying, with your tone of voice or body language: “Maybe this is something that you should be afraid of.” Let’s say a child has had a negative experience with a dog. Next time she’s around a dog, you might be anxious about how she will respond, and you might unintentionally send a message that she should be worried.

7. Encourage the child to tolerate her anxiety. Let your child know that you appreciate the work it takes to tolerate anxiety to do what she wants or needs to do. It’s encouraging her to engage in life and to let the anxiety take its natural curve.

We call it the “habituation curve”—it will drop over time as she continues to have contact with the stressor.

8. Try to keep the anticipatory period short. When we’re afraid of something, the hardest time is before we do it. So another rule of thumb for parents is to eliminate or reduce the anticipatory period. Try to shorten that period to a minimum.

9. Think things through with the child. Sometimes it helps to talk through what would happen if

a child’s fear came true—how would she handle it? A child who’s anxious about separating from her parents might worry about what would happen if they didn’t come to pick her up.

So we talk about that. If your mom doesn’t come at the end of soccer practice, what would you do? “Well, I would tell the coach my mom’s not here.”

And what do you think the coach would do? “He would call my mom. Or he would wait with me.” For some kids, having a plan is a healthy way to reduce the uncertainty.

10. Try to model healthy ways of handling anxiety. There are multiple ways you can help kids handle anxiety by letting them see how you cope with anxiety yourself. Don’t pretend that you don’t have stress and anxiety, but let kids hear or see you managing it calmly and then feeling positive about getting through it.

Dr. Kathryn Keithly is a Licensed Educational Psychologist, Board Certified Sport Psychologist, and Cognitive Learning Specialist in Aptos. Carol Murphy, MA, CCC-SLP is a Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist, Board Certified Educational Therapist and Learning Disability Specialist. Check www. kmkpsych.com for additional information or call 831-234-4182.

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Calendar april 2018

1 Sunday 1:00 P.m. Sunday Seaside Crafts Create and take home a fun souvenir, an activity for the whole family to share. Held weekly in April.

Seymour Marina Discovery Center, 100 McAllister Way, Santa Cruz, 95060 831-459-3800 2:00 P.m. CCL Family Movie Time Come view some of the best family-friendly movies.

Cesar Chavez Library 615 Williams Road, Salinas, 93905, 831-758-7345

2 Monday 9:00 A.m. Fort Ord National Monument Volunteer Days All projects are outdoors, including collecting native plant seeds, assisting with salamander research, removing invasive weeds, helping on habitat restoration and collecting data for grazing programs. Follow the signs from Lightfighter Drive to get to the venue. Open to all ages.

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Held each Thursday in March.

For more information email: bdelgado@blm.gov or call 831277-7690.

3:30 P.m. Yoga and Movement for Kids Get moving and mindful with yoga instructor Jherrica in this special series designed for kids.

Open to K-2nd grades.

Monterey Public Library 625 Pacific Street, Monterey, 93940, 831-646-3933 5:00 P.m. Family Night Come and enjoy the many activities provided such as billiards, ping pong, foosball and Wii video games. Held weekly.

Casanova Oak Knoll Center 735 Ramona Avenue, Monterey, 93940 831-646-3975 The Monterey Youth Center 777 Pearl Street, Monterey, 93940, 831-646-3975 Hilltop Center 871 Jessie Street, Monterey, 93940, 831-646-3975

3 Tuesday 9:00 A.m. Community

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Day - Free Admission The Arboretum at UCSC is a research and teaching facility committed to plant conservation and serves both the campus and the public. Its rich and diverse collection provides beginning students with a broad survey of the plant kingdom.

1156 High Street, Santa Cruz 831-502-2998

4 Wednesday

10:00 A.m. $2 Tuesday!

These reduced admission days are offered to all Monterey County residents. Please bring current identification to verify your residence.

425 Washington Street, Monterey, 93940 831-649-6444

5 Thursday

3:30 P.m. Movie & Dance Party Watch a fun movie, do a craft and get up and dance in this interactive program for ages 5 and up and requires registration. To sign-up, visit the Library Help Desk or call 831646-3933.

Monterey Public Library 625 Pacific Street, Monterey, 93940, 831-646-3933

5:30 P.m. Wednesday Night Sailboat Races Harbor restaurants & the beach are great viewing areas to watch the sailboat races against the setting sun.

Santa Cruz Harbor 135 5th Avenue, Santa Cruz, 95062 831-475-6161

9:00 A.m. Fort Ord National Monument Volunteer Days All projects are outdoors, including collecting native plant seeds, assisting with salamander research, removing invasive weeds, helping on habitat restoration and collecting data for grazing programs. Follow the signs from Lightfighter Drive to get to the venue. Open to all ages.

For more information email: bdelgado@blm.gov or call 831277-7690.

4:00 P.m. Teen Lounge If you are between the ages of 13 and 18, join us the first Thursday of each month from 4 to 5:30 PM. We have a blast en-

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The

7

Best

11:00 AM. Free Family Fun Days-Who Runs The Art World? Girls!

Includes creative art projects inspired by the colorful work of artists who are women artists, past and present. Monterey Museum of Art offers Family Fun Days through December.

Monterey Museum of Art 559 Pacific Street, Monterey, 93940, 831-372-5477

10:00 AM. 4th Annual Language Capital of the World Cultural Festival the 4th Annual “Language Capital of the World® Cultural Festival” will highlight Monterey’s rich language, culture, and international affairs capabilities, as well as its Sister City relationships. Fun for all ages, the free Festival will feature hundreds of performers of dances and authentic music from a variety of international cultures that represent many different languages.

20 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, 93940 www.lcowfest.com

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of april

9:00 AM. 61st Annual Good ol’ Days The 61st Annual Good Old Days Celebration will be held on Saturday & Sunday, April 14 & 15, 2018. The largest arts and craft show in the county, the Good Old Days boasts over 225 art and food vendors in downtown Pacific Grove, a parade down Pine Avenue, live entertainment on five stages, old-fashioned games and contests, and lots of family fun.

Downtown Pacific Grove, 93955 www.pacificgrove.org/events/communityevents/61st-annual-good-old-days-celebration/94

10:00 AM. Monterey Bay Parent Family Fun Expo A free family expo with 50 vendors, arts & crafts, entertainment and fun gveaways. Event runs through 3 pm but arrive early so you don’t miss any of the fun!

Monterey County Fairgrounds 2004 Fairground Road, Monterey, 93940 831-582-1373, MontereyBayParent.com

Coming up in May! We’re Celebrating Mom plus Summer Travel!

For information on how your business can advertise in award-winning Monterey Bay Parent Magazine call

831-582-1373 Deadline to be included is April 15

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Our online calendar is updated daily at MontereyBayParent.com

Submit a Listing This calendar is dedicated to bringing our readers the most comprehensive list of family-friendly events in the Monterey and Santa Cruz areas.

If your organization or business has an event you’d like to share with our readers, go to MontereyBayParent. com, click on “events,” and click on “submit your event.”

It’s easy and it’s free.

Deadline to be included in the May issue is the 15th of April.

joying creative expression in a relaxed atmosphere. Open mic, story slams, and games.

Harrison Memorial Library Ocean & Lincoln, Carmel, 93923, 831-624-7323

6 friday 5:00 p.m. First Friday at Santa cruz

Museum of Art Explore three floors of exhibitions for free, dance to live music, and get hands-on with an all-ages art activity.

705 Front Street, Santa Cruz, 95060, 831-429-1964 5:00 p.m. Summer Activity Fun Fair Learn about Parks and Recreation’s camps and classes and get ready for summer.

Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium 307 Church Street, Santa Cruz 831-420-5270 5:00 p.m. First Friday Downtown Santa Cruz Each month local businesses and art galleries team up with over 100 local artists. Each venue chooses and sponsors one or more artist who then can showcase his or her work.

Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, 95060, http://firstfridaysantacruz.com/category/january/

Summer Fun Camps

5:00 p.m. First Friday Oldtown Salinas Galleries, shops, restaurants and other organizations in a three-block area open their doors to visitors.

100-300 Blocks Main Street, Salinas, 831-594-1799 www.artistasunidos.org 6:00 p.m. First Friday pacific grove Shops, restaurants, and galleries in the downtown area participate.

831-655-9775, http://firstfridaypacificgrove.org 7:00 p.m. Overnight at Monterey Bay Aquarium Spend the night in the acquarium, with an admission for the next morning Monterey Bay Aquarium 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, 93940, 831-648-4800

April Events 7 saturday 8:30 AM. Birding Walk, Elkhorn Slough Keep track of your sightings by downloading a bird sightings list from our website. Tour with professional birder Rick Fournier, one of our volunteer docents. Day use fee of $4.00 for each visitor, 16 years and older.

Tour begins promptly and lasts 2-3 hours.

Elkhorn Slough Reserve 1700 Elkhorn Road, Castroville, 9501 2, 831-728-2822 9:00 A.m. The Home Depot Kid’s Workshop All attendees must be accompanied by a parent or adult at all times. All kids get to keep their craft, receive a certificate, an apron, and a pin while supplies last.

The Home Depot 1890 North Davis Road, Salinas, 93907, 831-583-0778 The Home Depot

Do you LOVE horses?

Sessions Start June 4 -Full Day -Half Day Morning -Half Day Afternoon -Preschool -Sports -Cheerleading Register in person or online at www.ci.seaside.ca.us For more information call: (831) 899-6800 @seasiderecreation

@City_of_Seaside

r to Beginne ed advanc pe cam rs e! welcom

The Riding Academy Horse Camp Located at the beautiful Corral de Tierra Pattee Ranch, one mile off Highway 68 between Monterey and Salinas.

• Camp runs daily 10:00 am to 3:00 pm • Extended care available • $350 for ages 5 and up • Each camper is paired

with an experienced helper • Crafts, horse show, games, prizes and more each session.

Call Sabrina at 831-601-7477 for info www.theridingacademy.us

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1590 Canyon Del Rey, Seaside, 93955, 831-583-0778 10:00 AM. Paint in the Park We’ll supply the canvas, paint, glitter, and brushes–you just need to bring a blanket to place on the grass for you to paint on (and/or easel) and to dress in clothes you’re okay with getting messy in. This is a ‘while supplies last’ event. Suggested donation is $20 per family but no one will be turned away for lack of ability to donate Tatum’s Garden, Salinas http://tatumsgarden.org 10:00 AM. Walk Among the Wildflowers at Porter Ranch Bring your camera, take pictures and wander among the wildflowers. Fill your sights with views of fields and hills covered with the colors of spring at one of the regions oldest cattle ranch. Instructors are Elkhorn Slough Foundation staff.

Porter Ranch 103 Hall Road Las Lomas, 95076 www.mprpd.org 10:30 AM. Bookshop Sidewalk Sales Pick up used book bargains at the monthly sale at John Steinbeck Library.

350 Lincoln Avenue, Salinas, 93901, 831-758-7311 11:00 AM. Living History Days Step back to the early days of San Juan. Meet mountain men, Civil War soldiers, Victorian ladies, and more. Enjoy craft and cooking demonstrations. Enjoy an old-fashioned soda in the historic Plaza Hotel Saloon. Admission is adults $3.00, sixteen and under free.

San Juan Bautista State Historic Park 19 Franklin Street, San Juan Bautista, 95045 831-623-4526 11:00 AM. Free Family Fun Days-Who Runs The Art World? Girls!

Includes creative art projects inspired by the colorful work of artists who are women artists, past and present. Monterey

Museum of Art offers Family Fun Days through December.

Monterey Museum of Art 559 Pacific Street, Monterey, 93940, 831-372-5477 2:00 PM. Saturday Matinee Free movie screening and popcorn. Feel free to bring a cushion for your chair.

Seaside Branch Library 550 Harcourt, Seaside, 93955 831-899-2055

8 sunday 11:00 AM. Open House at the Castro Adobe Friends is leading a multi-year restoration effort to preserve and interpret Pajaro Valley’s first State Historic Park in partnership with California State Parks. The open house event is free to attend; donations greatly accepted. Leashed dogs are allowed in the parking area only. The Castro Adobe is open on a limited basis. The park will be open to the public only one weekend day each month in 2018.

184 Old Adobe Road, Watsonville, 95076 831-425-5849

10 tuesday 1:00 PM. Super Hero Training Academy It’s a Bird! It’s a Plane! It’s Super Hero Training Academy. Complete fantastical elements, extraordinary challenges, training trials and astonishing activities to become a Super Hero. For ages 6-9 years.

Hilltop Center, 871 Jessie St. Monterey, 93940 831-646-3975

831-800-7421

Summer Day Camp July 16-20, 2018 9am-12pm | $60 Register at http://shoreline.church | More info:camp@shoreline.church

Join us this summer for Shipwrecked Summer Day Camp!

Venture onto an uncharted island where kids survive and thrive. Anchor kids in the truth that Jesus carries them through life's storms.

2500 Garden Road, Monterey, CA | 831-655-0100

11 Wednesday 11:00 AM. Plants For Paws Support your local animal shelter and update your yard at the same time. Purchase plants and flowers graciously donated by Sakata seed. All proceeds raised stay for Animal Services spay/ neuter programs.

Salinas Animal Services 144 Hitchcock Rd, Salinas, 93908, 831-758-7285

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Outdoor Adventures

• Week-long Discovery Camps, day camp with one over-night campout (ages 8-12) • Outdoor Leadership Training with Discovery Camp (ages 13-16) • Wee Ones in the Woods, 3 hour programs all week (ages 4-7) For dates, • Condor Wilderness Camps are back! 3-day 2-night more information, adventure (ages 13-17) or to enroll, visit us at: • Single Day Adventures www.ventanaws.org/education to various locations (ages 8-12) or call

Allison Chance REALTOR® CalBRE #02042597

831.296.0114

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13 friday 6:00 PM. Kids’ Nerf Night Come do some target shooting, play tag, elimination, Capture the Flag and other great games with your NERF Blaster. Dinner and dessert are included. For ages 7-12 years.

The Monterey Youth Center 777 Pearl Street, Monterey, 93940, 831-646-3873

14 saturday

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Shoes • Clothing

944 S Main St at Romie Ln • Salinas • 424-3466 • www.joypers.com • Mon–Sat 9-6 • Sun 11-4

9:00 AM. Salinas Founder’s Day History Fair Since 2015, Salinas has celebrated “Founders Day,” an event that partnered with the First Mayor’s House, Native Sons of the Golden West, Monterey County Historical Society, Railroad Society and others to honor the city’s heritage. This year, Mayor Joe Gunter commissioned a special effort to plan a larger event for the 150th celebration.

Train Station Plaza, 11 Station Place, Salinas, 93901 831-214-8661 9:00 AM. Volunteer in California’s Oldest State Park A typical workday lasts until mid-afternoon. Bring your own work gloves, lunch and water.

Join us for a unique perspective of Big Basin Meet at Park Headquarters.

The Old Lodge 21600 Big Basin Way, Boulder Creek, 95006, 831-338-8860 9:00 AM. 61st Annual Good ol’ Days The 61st Annual Good Old Days Celebration will be held on Saturday & Sunday, April 14 & 15, 2018. The largest arts and craft show in the county, the Good Old Days boasts over 225 art and food vendors in downtown Pacific Grove, a parade down Pine Avenue, live entertainment on five stages, old-fashioned games and contests, and lots of family fun.

Pacific Grove, 93955 www.pacificgrove.org/events/ community-events/61st-an-

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11:00 AM. 2nd Saturday on the Farm Visitors can participate in the regular activities of the Ag History Project plus others related to the day’s special focus.

2601 East Lake Avenue, Watsonville, 95019 831-724-5898 12:00 PM. SPCA Family Workshop Please join us in learning about pets and wildlife with the SPCA for Monterey County. All family members are welcome to attend.

Cesar Chavez Library 615 Williams Road, Salinas, 93905, 831-758-7345

15 Sunday 8:00 AM. Monterey Bay Antiques & Vintage Market This is a monthly outdoor market on the third Sunday of the month.

Monterey Peninsula College 930 Fremont St., Monterey, 93940 11:00 AM. CSUMB Rotaract Zumbathon Zumbathon is our annual event. Come and join us for an afternoon filled with dancing, refreshments, kids zone andmuch more.

CSUMB World Theatre 5260 Sixth Avenue, Seaside, 93955, csumbrotaract.org 3:00 PM. Meet the Doula Meet local birth & postpartum doulas and learn about the benefits of having a doula before, during, and after birth.

You’ll have the opportunity to talk with several doulas and find the right one for you. Event begins promptly at 3 pm and lasts approximately 2 hours. Refreshments will be served.

Monterey Public Library 625 Pacific Street, Monterey, 93940, 831-646-3933 3:00 PM. Potty Learning for your Child Are you wondering about Potty

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10:00 AM. Earth Week at Seymour Marine Discovery Center Come and learn about the big blue planet Earth. Free admission for anyone arriving via people power (bicycle, walking, etc.) or via public transportation. Runs through April 22.

100 McAllister Way, Santa Cruz, 95060 831-459-3800

10:00 AM. MPC Earth Day Celebration Earth Day is held near the campus flagpole. In partnership with the environmental club of MPC, they invite campus clubs and local organizations to this event.

Monterey Peninsula College 930 Fremont St., Monterey, 93940, 831-646-4000

10:30 AM. Chartwell School: Tuesday Tours During the Tuesday Tour, you will see a presentation from our Heads of School showcasing how our lower and middle school literacy skills programs encourage student growth and how our high school collegeprep project-based curriculum can help your child. Please preregister.

2511 Numa Watson Rd, Monterey, 93955 831-394-3468

6:00 PM. Frog Pond Walk-and-Talk Take a family-friendly walk around Frog Pond Wetland Preserve. While we’re walking, we’ll share stories about the history of this land and about the vast array of wildlife that make their permanent and seasonal homes here. Enjoy the sights and sounds of twilight and early evening. Open to ages 6 and up.

Frog Pond Preserve Canyon Del Rey Blvd., Del Rey Oaks, 93955, 831-583-0778

3:30 PM. Monarch Butterfly and Insect Adaptations Join us as we explore a different aspect of animal science each week with the Pacific Grove Natural History Museum. This week’s topic is Monarch Butterfly and Insect Adaptations.

Registration required weekly.

For grades 3rd-5th. To sign-up call 831-646-3933.

Monterey Public Library 625 Pacific Street, Monterey, 93940, 831-646-3933

19 thursday 7:00 AM. Subaru Sea Otter Classic The Sea Otter Classic hosts the world’s largest consumer bike exposition in North America.

The Expo holds hundreds of vendors who display new products, distribute free samples,

21 Saturday 8:00 AM. Natividad Creek Cleanup Event Students can earn community service hours. Gloves and bags will be provided.

Virginia Rocca Barton School 680 Las Casitas Dr, Salinas, 93905, 831-775-3017 8:00 AM. Dive In Earth Day 2018 Dive in Earth Day is an international Earth Day celebration that promotes the active conservation of coral reefs, oceans, and aquatic ecosystems, and raises public awareness of the importance of marine conservation. We will be having shoreline clean-up for nondivers, education for children and adults alike to learn what is going on with our shorelines

MONTEREY BAY PARENT • april 2018

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Motivate Instruct Nurture

17 tuesday

and offer great bargains. The four-day, action-packed festival includes an international food court, entertainment, bike demos, stunt shows, and activities for children.

Mazda Laguna Seca Raceway, 1021 Highway 68, Salinas, 93908 www.seaotterclassic.com

Endless Possibilities

Learning for your Child? Will this ever happen? Have you tried and your child is resistant? Preregistration is required.

Contact Gail via email or phone.

4 Harris Court Suite A, Monterey, 93940 831-601-3401

Madonna del Sasso School is the DIFFERENCE! “My goal for the 2017-2018 school year is for our school to become the best math school in the Salinas Valley.”

- Angel Rivera Principal

Preschool - 8th Grade A school with challenging academics and a spiritual environment.

A school where the possibilities are endless!

Since 1958

20 Santa Teresa Way  Salinas, CA 93906  (831) 424-7813 mdsschool.com

Are you suffering?

Back Pain?

Sports Injuries?

Headaches?

Neck Pain?

Sciatica?

Chiropractic care for everyone Adults Children Pregnant Women

MILITARY DISCOUNT

Dr. Brian P. Rector 2511 Garden Road, C100, Monterey, CA, 93940

831.899.5900

www.montereychiropracticgroup.com montereybayparent.com

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Offering 3 parent participation preschool programs for children 3 years old to kindergarten

• Dual-language Spanish preschool • Song, movement, dramatic play • Part-time and afternoon classes available • COMING SOON: Full-time childcare/ extended day preschool

Pacific Grove Adult Education Preschool Programs 1025 Lighthouse Ave., Pacific Grove CA 93950

831-646-6623

Mom Support!

Join our the Monterey Bay Parent Facebook Group for Recommendations • Advice • Friendship Contests • Event Information and much, much more!

You’ll find the link for the group at:

www.facebook.com/MontereyBayParent

Looking for parenting articles, a comprehensive calendar of events, and local information on what to do and where to go?

Check MontereyBayParent.com

Questions? Call 831-582-1373 30

montereybayparent.com

April 2018 MBP.indd 30

and oceans at this time. $10, for registration all participants.

Children 8 and under free.

Del Monte Beach 653 Del Monte Avenue, Monterey, 93940 209-577-3483

miadesalinas@gmail.com or by phone at (831) 204 - 0617.

Sherwood Hall 940 North Main Street, Salinas, 93906

10:00 AM. 4th Annual Language Capital of the World Cultural Festival the 4th Annual “Language Capital of the World® Cultural Festival” will highlight Monterey’s rich language, culture, and international affairs capabilities, as well as its Sister City relationships. Fun for all ages, the free Festival will feature hundreds of performers of dances and authentic music from a variety of international cultures that represent many different languages.

20 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, 93940 www.lcowfest.com

8:00 AM. Walk MS: Monterey Bay Walk MS helps us team up with friends, loved ones and coworkers to change the world for everyone affected by MS. Together, we become a powerful force. And with every step we take, every dollar we raise ... we’re that much closer.

Lover’s Point Ocean View Blvd & 17th Street, Pacific Grove, 93955, http://main.nationalmssociety.org

11:00 AM. Earth Day Santa Cruz Earth Day Santa Cruz is an exciting community event offering educational information, activities for kids including an arts and crafts tent, live music and a focus on green businesses.

San Lorenzo Park 137 Dakota Avenue, Santa Cruz, 95060 https://scearthday.org 12:00 PM. Children of the dragon Explore Vietnamese culture and traditions through music, dance, art, fashion, and food.

Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose 180 Woz Way, San Jose, 95110 408-298-5437, www.cdm.org 6:30 PM. Noche Bohemia Adela Castillo and Jose Alejandro Moran present Noche Bohemia 2018. A free of charge event that includes artistic dance, harp, violin, and piano, along with poetry, song, paintings, photography creating a night of romanticism for all ages.For more information about the event, please contact Adela & Jose at nochebohe-

22 Sunday

1:30 PM. MY ParTEA 2018 This event features an afternoon tea, a children’s fashion show starring over 40 local children, a seated luncheon, awesome raffle and amazing silent auction.

Tehama Golf Club 25000 Via Melpaso, Carmel, 93923, 831-649-6444 2:00 PM. 7th Annual Seaside Earth Day Celebration Live Music, raffle, prizes, free book exchange, children’s activities, earth-friendly info tables, tomato starters, zero waste event Highland-Otis Park Mingo Avenue & Highland Street, Seaside, 93955 831-915-7257 3:00 PM. Ages & Stages for the Toddler Years What are the developmental stages toddler go through and how can your family enjoy the two’s and three’s?

Monterey Birth & Wellness Center 4 Harris Court Suite A, Monterey, 93940 831-601-3401

24 tuesday 3:30 PM. Bird Adaptions Join us as we explore a different aspect of animal science each week with the Pacific Grove

MONTEREY BAY PARENT • april 2018

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Natural History Museum. This week’s topic is Bird Adaptations. Registration required weekly. For grades 3rd-5th. To sign-up call 831-646-3933.

Monterey Public Library 625 Pacific Street, Monterey, 93940, 831-646-3933

28 Saturday 8:00 AM. By the Bay Fun Run Start and end at Lovers Point Park in Pacific Grove. Postrace festivities will take place in Lovers Point Park as well.

Ocean View Blvd & 17th Street, Pacific Grove, 93955 831-625-6226 9:00 AM. Moss Landing Marine Laboratories Open House Live animal touch tanks, tours, presentations and children’s activities are all part of the annual Open House event at Moss Landing Marine Laboratories. Also held on Sunday, April 29.

Moss Landing Marine Labs 8272 Moss Landing Road, Moss Landing, 95039 831-771-4400 9:00 AM. Craft Fair ALA Unit 694 is hosting a Spring Craft Fair on Saturday, April 28, 2018 at the Marina Post from 9 AM-3 PM. Vendors wanted! Tables are $30 each.

American Legion 694 Legion Way, Marina, California 93933 831-905-7965 10:00 AM. Monterey Bay Parent Family Fun Expo A free family expo with 50 vendors, arts & crafts, entertainment and fun gveaways.

Event runs through 3 pm but arrive early so you don’t miss any of the fun!

Monterey County Fairgrounds 2004 Fairground Road, Monterey, 93940 831-582-1373 MontereyBayParent.com 11:00 AM. Science Saturdays:Day of the Dinosaur

Family friendly event that have a variety of hands-on science activities for guests of all ages to participate in. Admission for all is free.

Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History 165 Forest Avenue, Pacific Grove, 93950, 831-648-5716 ext 14 1:00 PM. Spring Birth & Baby Fair The Annual Spring Birth & Baby Fair is a free community event for anyone planning to start a family, are currently expecting, or have welcomed a new baby. Meet local birth & early parenting professionals.

YMCA, 600 Camino El Estero, Monterey, 93940 http://goo.gl/forms/EsCR2G5BvM 11:00 AM. Science Saturdays: Day of the Dinosaur Family friendly event that have a variety of hands-on science activities for guests of all ages to participate in. Admission for all is free.

Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History 165 Forest Avenue, Pacific Grove, 93950, 831-648-5716 ext 14

29 Sunday 7:35 AM. Big Sur 12K The 12K is an out-and-back course from the Marathon finish that includes a loop through the beautiful Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. http://www.bigsurmarathon. org/races/12k/ 10:00 AM. Dia del Nino at the Monterey Bay Aquarium Enjoy live Latin music performances, crafts, special bilingual programming and more.

Free with Aquarium admission.

886 Cannery Row, Monterey, 93940, 831-648-4800

30 monday 1:30 PM. Fun with Flowers A picture is worth a thousand words. Learn how art can be

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BIRTHDAYS

birth services

Need some sparkle at your party?

Fairy Hair!

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Sparkling, silk strands tied into your little pixie’s hair

Monterey Birth Schedule your FREE tour!

www.montereybirthcenter.com 831-717-4723 montereybirthcenter Birth Monterey

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montereybirthcenter

831-221-0669

classes Jump Into Art Tuesdays

counseling

NEW! Meets last Tuesday of the month from 4-6:00 pm. Children ages 18 months to 4 years will explore painting, drawing, play dough, collage, printmaking and much more. Classes are FREE.

Neuro-Psychological Assessments

Meets last Sunday of the month from 11am-12:00 pm. Songs will be selected for children under 5 but all ages welcome.

Bring a snack to this FREE event.

Dr. Kathryn Keithly

Sing-With-Me

Classes made possible by a grant provided by the Arts Council of Monterey County–$5 donation is welcome.

Counseling • Advocacy Sports Psychology Phy.D. Clinical Psychology M.A Counseling Psychology Educational Psychologist Sport Psychologist Aptos, CA

www.kmkpsych.com

Register online at www.bookeo.com/parenting hello@parentingconnectionmc.org

831-234-4182

preschools

yoga

Serendipity Pre-School, LLC We open the eyes and hearts of children to the wonder and discovery of learning.

• A quality educational program for children ages 3 to 5 • Full and part-time preschool and Pre-K classes • Serving Peninsula families since 1981

offering

Kids Yoga Summer Camp 2018 at Om Studios, Monterey July 2-6th 8:30am-12pm Visit www.moja.yoga

1231 Seventh Street, Monterey, 93940 www.serendipitypreschoolllc.com

Call: Megan McKenzie

831-375-9743 used to inspire change and create your own work of art that makes a statement.$20 for children of MMA Members, $30 for children of non-members Monterey Museum of Art 559 Pacific Street, Monterey, 93940, 831-372-5477

831-747-4547 Email: megan@moja.yoga

Monterey Bay

PARENT Your ad can be here next month for as low as $45/issue.

Call

831-582-1373

for more info

montereybayparent.com

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Chartwell School:

Empowering students who think and learn differently.

For students in grades 2 to 12 with dyslexia and other learning differences.

Join us for an Open House Tuesday, April 17 at 10:30 am.

Admission and financial aid information available.

Register today at www.chartwell.org or call 831.394.3468

Now enrolling

Summer 2018

Extended School Year Programs for students and Chartwell Structured Literacy Teacher Training Institute for educators.

For 35 years Chartwell has been leading the way in research-based education for students with language-based learning differences.

Stop struggling. Start learning.

Chartwell School | 2511 Numa Watson Rd. | Seaside, CA 93955 www.chartwell.org/summer 32

montereybayparent.com

April 2018 MBP.indd 32

MONTEREY BAY PARENT • april 2018

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