Parents Press March 2018 by Parenting Media

Bay Area Sculptures to Admire | 5 Tips for a More Affordable & Stressfree Vacation

2 Parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Press | March 2018

March 2018 | Parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Press 3

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March 20187

Contents

DEPARTMENTS

3 On the Go Cool Public Art 4 Bookshelf

Women STEM Pioneers

5 Family Cents

Affordable Family Vacations

20 Family Fun Calendar 27 Kid’s Culture

Give Back and Get Outside

An A-to-Z Guide to Bay Area Camps 12 Key Camp Search Questions You Didn’t Know You Needed to Ask 14 EQ! How Camp Experiences Boost Camper’s Emotional and Social Skills 18 Frame Your Family’s Summer Camp Search & Find Your Camp 19 Seven Reasons Summer Camp Experiences are Essential

Publishers

Robert and Tracy McKean

Art Director Debbi Murzyn

Account Managers

Carol Flores, Sophie Archer

Contributors

Aaron Crowe, Erika Mailman, Haley Reen, Mary Ann Scheuer

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875-A Island Dr, Ste 421, Alameda, CA 94502 43,000 copies of Parents’ Press are distributed to more than 1,400 Bay Area locations. Send letters to the editor to editor@parentspress.com Family Fun Calendar submissions are due six weeks prior to publication date. Send calendar information to calendar@parentspress.com Parents’ Press is published monthly. ©2018 Parents’ Press

4 Parents’ Press | March 2018

By Erika Mailman

On the Go Cool Public Art and Sculptures to Excite Your Kids

great way to excite your kids about art? See it outside. Forget fusty museums (although let’s face it, they’re wonderful! But maybe not for all kids) and emphasize cool public art and sculpture gardens. Here are a few to get you started:

Cupid’s Span

The bow and arrow seen near the Embarcadero in San Francisco. This giant fiberglass and steel sculpture by married artists Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen illustrates Cupid’s arrow. Fun fact: its curve visually echoes the Bay Bridge beyond and was meant by the sculptors to also evoke ships’ rigging from San Francisco’s early days.

Vaillancourt Fountain

Also near the Embarcadero in Justin Herman Plaza, this 40-foot high sprawl of precast concrete tubes may inspire conversation about what constitutes art: does it have to be beautiful? What does this sculpture make us think about? People have tried to remove it in the past, and its integral water feature is sometimes off, sometimes on. Quebec sculptor Armand Vaillancourt won a design competition to create the piece. Fun fact: Bono spraypainted it during a free U2 concert in 1987.

The Thinker

Auguste Rodin’s famous sculpture sits just outside the Legion of Honor so you can pay homage without paying admission. Although, let me just say: mummies inside! This 1904 bronze piece is one of 28 cast by the French artist or his studio. Fun fact: the sculpture is meant to be seen from below, hence its always being exhibited on an elevated platform.

See more at the Rodin Sculpture Garden

Palo Alto at the Cantor Arts Center on the Stanford University campus. While there, check out the Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden, as well as a general collection of figurative and abstract outdoor art. Free admission, https://museum.stanford. edu/visit.

Mission Murals

These bright examples of street art are often political in nature and spur great conversations. Get off BART at 16th and Mission and walk north on Mission, catching murals along your way to Caledonia Alley near 15th Street and Clarion Alley near 17th. Fun fact: Art here is constantly changing, so take photos of your ephemeral favorites.

Sigame

This sculpture of an “amalgamated woman” may enrage viewers and start a productive discussion about the importance of women in history. Emeryville sculptor Scott Donahue chose to honor 20 different trailbreakers by casting disparate pieces of each women into one. You may see Amy Tan’s forehead, Julia Morgan’s cheekbone and Delilah Beasley’s chin (just guessing). Made of concrete, fiberglass and steel, it stands in Oakland’s Union Park. Plaques discuss each of the 20 women depicted. Not-so-fun fact: The statue was supposed to be dedicated September 12, 2001, but was delayed a month because of the events of September 11th.

Mid-century Monster

This 1952 sculpture by jewelry designer Bob Winston was originally painted green and fully intended to have children climb all over it, part of why it’s sited in a playground near the Lake Merritt bandstand in Oakland. It resembles a freeform octopus and has its own Facebook page, Lake Merritt’s Mid-Century Monster Fan Club, created when residents worried about its cordoned-off status and need for repairs. The 40-foot beast consists of a steel armature sprayed with concrete. Fun fact: It is featured on the cover of Sly and the Family Stone’s album Dance to the

The Thinker, Auguste Rodin Sculpture Music (1968). This is just a small sampling of what’s out there. I hope you enjoy researching and visiting these outdoor examples of public art! Erika Mailman can be reached via www.erikamailman.com.

March 2018 | Parents’ Press 5

Bookshelf

Even if your baby is completely breastfed, think about having dad offer her a bottle of expressed milk once a day. Once breast feeding is well established, offering a bottle won’t interfere with nursing. Don’t wait too long for this, even if it seems less convenient at times. If your baby doesn’t get used to taking a bottle early, she may refuse one in the months to come, and you’ll feel even more tied down. Besides, dads enjoy being able to share the pleasure of feeding time with their baby. If you don’t want to express milk, he can offer a bottle of water. Some babies will drink water more readily if you dissolve one teaspoon of sugar (not honey) into four

feeling that even though the baby is wonderful, daily life isn’t very much fun! Moms often get more support and understanding than dads for the new role they are learning. Dads may think that they are the only men who are trying to figure out everything from how to juggle a baby, a job and a messy house, not to mention what kind of role model they want to be for this new little person.

BEST

Alameda Contra Costa

By Mary Ann Scheuer

Supports for dads Fortunately we live in an area where we have great support and resources for fathers. Fathers of babies and young children

VOTE For Your

Women in STEM Fields

“Almost Astronauts: 13 Women Who Dared to Dream” By Tanya Lee Stone (Candlewick; ages 12-16; $17.99; 144 pp.). The “Mercury 13” were recruited by NASA for their astronaut training program, passing the same physical and psychological tests as the men. Stone chronicles the riveting story of these women’s courageous struggles and ultimate disappointment when they were denied the opportunity to become astronauts, simply because of their gender.

“Computer Engineer Ruchi Sanghvi (STEM Trailblazer Bios)” By Laura Hamilton Waxman (Lerner; ages 9-12; $8.99; 32 pp.). Ruchi Sanghvi, an accomplished computer engineer, was one of the early engineers at Facebook. This engaging, short biography describes how she decided to move from India to the United States to study computer engineering, taking risks and never letting fear stop her.

“Girl Code: Gaming, Going Viral, and Getting It Done” By Andrea Gonzales and Sophie Houser (HarperCollins; ages 12-17; $9.99; 303 pp.). Andrea “Andy” and Sophie met at a Girls Who Code summer program and joined forces to create Tampon Run, an internet game that went viral. In this engaging memoir, they share their desires to combine social commentary with computer coding and their struggles to find their voice and persist in the face of doubt.

“Girls Who Code: Learn to Code and Change the World” By Reshma Saujani, illustrated by Andrea Tsurumi (Viking/Penguin; ages 10-14; $17.99; 176 pp.). The creator of the nationwide club Girls Who Code provides encouragement and entry points that are fun and relatable. Saujani gives readers an overarching understanding of the field, what they might be able to do (such as create

ounces of warm water. The slightly sweet water is more appealing than plain but won’t interfere with your baby’s hunger for her next meal. Bath time can also be fun, if your baby likes the water. Most babies like a little massage with an unscented oil or lotion. Choose a time when your baby is in her “quiet alert” stage for the best experience for both baby and dad. Gentle massage will often help a baby to prolong a quiet state that continues even after the massage is over. Even diapering can be “quality time” for a dad and baby, if he talks and coos to her while he is cleaning and changing her. As new parents you need to be very games, apps and web design), and aware of each other’s needs right now. resources tooften get started. Mothers are so overwhelmed with caring for a new thatof they don’t have “Grace Hopper:baby Queen Computer much energy left for the couple relationCode” ship. the other hand, may not By Dads, LaurieonWallmark, illustrated byget to enjoy the baby as much and may feel Katy Wu (Sterling; ages 6-9; $16.95; 48deprived of both their mate and their expecpp.). Grace Hopper loved taking apart tations of what fatherhood would be like. and studying things as a child; as an No one can imagine what daily life will be adult, she became a pioneer in computer like with a new baby. Of course, no one has programming whose accomplishments the time or energy to talk about this, so it’s continue to impact our lives.can Aswind a no wonder that both parents up

computer engineer for the Navy, she created a new (and time-saving) method for writing code. A delightful picture book biography that conveys Hopper’s lively spirit and important contributions to young readers.

“Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race”

can meet other fathers for discussions, activities or a hike through local resources such as the Fathers Forum (Fathersforum. com) or East Bay Dads (Eastbaydads.com). If a dad is feeling really overwhelmed or stressed out, the extra support of a resource like Postpartummen.com can be a lifesaver. Most people don’t know that dads feel the baby blues just like moms, and dads can also experience postpartum depression. Moms can help by encouraging dads to check these local online resources. Even better, Moms can encourage (even push) dads to use these resources to get together with other dads in real life. Fortunately, nature designed babies to studied whales, swimming alongside rapidly move through this period of comthem. Nivola’s rich illustrations help plete dependency on mom. Soon, your baby convey the awe-inspiring vastness of the will become a delightfully social being. By undersea world passion for the time you readand this,Earle’s she will be smiling studying and protecting it. and flirting as she discovers that there is more life than a good meal and a nap. In “MaetoAmong the Stars” fact, the end of her third month, she’ll Byby Roda Ahmed, illustrated by Stasia be so delighted to see her dadages that 4-7; you’ll Burrington (HarperCollins; see her get excited andas animated see$17.99; 40 pp.). Even a youngjust child, ing his face. So be patient, support each Mae Jemison dreamed of becoming an other through this difficult time, and you’ll astronaut. Her supportive parents told all emerge intact.

her repeatedly, “Of course you can. If you can dream it, if you believe it and work hard for it, anything is possible.” An uplifting picture book to introduce a pioneering African American astronaut to young children.

“Solving the Puzzle Under the Sea: Marie Tharp Maps the Ocean Floor”

By Robert Burleigh (Simon & Schuster/ Paula Wiseman Books; ages 6-10; $17.99; 40 pp.). Using the new science of measuring ocean depths with echoes, Marie Tharp set about mapping the ocean floor. Her measurements revealed mountain ranges under the sea and helped prove the theories of plate tectonics. A fascinating and enlightening PINOLE picture book biography.

the best family dentists and ortohodontists in The Bay area DENTISTS

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“Life in the Tabor, Ocean: DDS The Story of Richard Oceanographer Sylvia Earle”

1821 Santa Clara Ave. By Claire A. Nivola (Farrar, Straus & 510-865-2900 Giroux; ages 5-9; $17.99; 32 pp.). This www.alamedadentist.com picture book biography captures Sylvia Earle’s lifelong love of nature and the ocean. She helped design devices that allowed deep-water dives, lived for two weeks in a deep-sea station, and

2000 AppianStine, Way,illustrated Suite 303by Ted By Megan 510-964-0168 Hammond (Grosset & Dunlap; ages 7-11; $4.99; 103 pp.). Sally Ride was an www.eastshorepediatricdental.com astrophysicist who became the first American woman to fly into space. This Teri L. Kim, DDS biography, part of the popular “Who 2000 Appian Suite 303 Was…” series,Way, clearly relates Ride’s life, 510-964-0168 from her childhood interests in sports and science to her work developing a www.eastshorepediatricdental.com

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6 Parents’ Press | March 2018

Dea

2014 robotic arm for space shuttles. Inspiring and informative, in an easy-to-read format.

“Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World” By Rachel Ignotofsky (Ten Speed Press; ages 9-14; $16.99; 128 pp.). An impressively wide range of scientists are profiled in this inspiring collection, ranging from well-known figures like Marie Curie and Mary Anning to modern inventors like Patricia Bath, an African American ophthalmologist who harnessed laser technology for the treatment of cataracts.

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By Margot Lee Shetterly, illustrated by Laura Freeman (HarperCollins; ages 6-9; $17.99; 40 pp.). Based on the popular book and movie, this picture book recounts the true story of four black women who helped NASA launch men into space using their mathematical analysis, persistence and hard work. An inspiring picture book to introduce young readers to these terrific mathematicians. ALAMEDA

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Working families may be eligible for WIC! For more information and to see if you qualify, contact: City of Berkeley WIC Program 830 University Ave Berkeley, CA 94710 510.981.5360 Migrant families are welcome! wicprogram@cityofberkeley.info Visit us at www.cityofberkeley.info/publichealth Do you with health care? Do you while are pregnant? Please Do youneed needhelp help with health care? Doneed you care need careyou while you call Berkeley Public Health at Berkeley 510-981-5300. are pregnant? Please call Public Health at 510-981-5300. We canhelp helpwith with community forincome low and middle incomeHealthy families. We can programs for lowprograms and middle families. (Medi-Cal, (Medi-Cal andand CHDP) Families, CHDP other community programs)

“Wonder Women: 25 Innovators, Inventors and Trailblazers Who Changed History” By Sam Maggs, illustrated by Sophia Foster-Dimino (Quirk Books; ages 12-16; $16.99; 238 pp.). With feminist attitude and humor, pop culture writer Maggs profiles women scientists, physicians, spies, inventors and adventurers—”because representation matters.” Interviews with prominent contemporary leaders end each chapter, giving particular modern currency to this collection. Mary Ann Scheuer is a teacher librarian for the Berkeley Unified School District. Find more books Mary Ann recommends sharing with children at her blog, Great Kid Books, http:// greatkidbooks.blogspot.com.

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nly two generations ago, our grandmothers faced serious limitations on the careers they could pursue. Today, our girls can do anything they put their minds to. Share these books and help spark a love of science in your daughters.

As new parents you need to be very aware of each other’s needs right now. Mothers are often so overwhelmed with caring for a new baby that they don’t have much energy left for the couple relationship.

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www.parentspress.com Cindy Rasicot, MFT | cindy.rasicot@gma March 2014

By Aaron Crowe

Family Cents Making family vacation more affordable, and fun, with kids

DON’T STAY IN A HOTEL

y the time a family vacation is over, family members can need their own vacation from each

other. But there are ways families can make a vacation more enjoyable and less stressful for everyone without breaking the bank. And by making it more affordable, it can be more fun for the parents. And even if some activities cost more than you’d want to pay, the fun for the kids and the freedom they buy for you could be worth the cost. Here are some ways to make a family vacation more affordable, fun and less stressful with children:

SET ASIDE “ME” TIME

Whether it’s a few hours at night or a day away on your own to do something, everyone in the group should have some time alone. You may want to go shopping for a few hours one day and not want to go to the museum that your spouse wants to go to, for example. Last summer in Amsterdam I went on a tour of the Heineken plant while my wife and daughter went to the nearby Rijksmuseum. They ended up not going into the museum when they saw an outdoor art display where people could make their own art.

FIND ACTIVITIES, THEN BACK AWAY

Small children shouldn’t be left alone by themselves for an entire day, but a babysitter can be hired or an activity can be scheduled where they’re left with adults for at least a few hours. Hotels often offer free group activities for kids, or can recommend local ones. A few years ago during a Hawaii vacation, we signed up our daughter, then 11, for a two-hour surfing class. I didn’t go in the water with her, leaving it up to an instructor, who gave her enough freedom to feel like she was away from her parents for a few hours. You can also go to a park, the beach or anywhere with free activities. Just as you would at home, you can find plenty of places on vacation where you can sit and enjoy the scenery for free and your kids can play.

Hotels can be expensive and feel cramped after a few days. There are many alternatives to staying in a hotel, from renting a house or condo on Airbnb to exchanging homes. There’s even a website that connects pet sitters with vacationers so you can watch someone’s pet and stay in their home while they’re away on vacation. We started using the site HomeExchange.com last year to swap homes. Family members can have their own room in a free home swap, and everyone can avoid feeling as if they’re on top of each other in a hotel room. It can take a while to set up a home exchange, and exchanges are usually arranged months in advance. The key, I think, is finding a home that’s equitable to yours. The exchange we did last summer was at a home that was a 30-minute train ride to Amsterdam, which is about equal to our distance from San Francisco. But better than Amsterdam was the nearby city of Leiden, which we biked to often during almost three weeks there when we lived like locals. The savings gave us money to visit other parts of Europe.

either hiring a tour guide to show your family around, or on a tour bus that drives around a city. This cost can make learning the basics of how to get around a city worth it and can save you time in the long run.

SLOW DOWN

Kids have their own schedule. Don’t pack too many activities into a day, and start your sightseeing or other adventures in the morning when everyone is fresh and ready to go. Even without kids, it’s smart to break up the day with some rest at your home base for a few hours before going out again.

Leave time for exploring and finding things to do instead of scheduling every hour of the day. Yes, time is limited, but if the place you’re visiting is that great and has so many things to do, you can return another time. That may be the best part about traveling to somewhere you’ve never been before—you can always return. Maybe without your kids the next time. Aaron Crowe is a freelance journalist in the Bay Area who specializes in writing about personal finance. Follow him on Twitter @AaronCrowe or at his blog on family finances at CashSmarter. com.

BUYING TIME

Even on a long vacation, some shortcuts are worth buying. The hassles of traveling can get on anyone’s nerves, including children, so it can be worthwhile to eliminate some of them by paying for a quicker solution. We used to pride ourselves on being able to get to our accommodations on our own, such as getting off a plane and taking the subway to our final destination. We still do that sometimes, but I’ve learned that arranging ahead of time for a driver at the airport or taking a taxi from a subway station can be less stressful. Direct flights are usually more expensive than connections, but can be worth the time savings. Instead of wandering around aimlessly in a new city, it can be worthwhile to buy a guided tour—

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An A-to-Z Guide to Bay Area Camps NOTE: The specific information and write-ups about camps listed here and some of the photographs were provided by the organizations themselves. Please be sure to contact camps for prices, and to verify dates and locations.

Our camp guide is one-stop shopping for the best programs the Bay Area offers.

his March issue is always one of our favorite issues of the year. In highlighting the hundreds of camps and activities available to our Bay Area children, we get our first taste of summer. For those of you unfamiliar with our March issue, we provide a comprehensive guide of summer programs for your child. But it’s so much more; we look at WHY summer camps are important, and offer insights to what everyone gets out of the experience. There are many factors in picking a camp — the most important being, of course, is it the right fit for your child? Luckily, there are many different types of camps to explore, from traditional nature and sports-oriented programs to science, technology, performing arts, academic, cooking and more. In our annual Camps and Summer Programs Guide, Parents Press offers up a comprehensive listing of camps and other activities that are sure to intrigue, enrich and inspire your child. — Parents’ Press 8 Parents’ Press | March 2018

Academic Camps ALAMEDA COUNTY CAL YOUTH CAMPS (BERKELEY) Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-17 Cal Youth Camps offers an unforgettable summer full of awardwinning camps and sport/outdoor activities – including swimming, skateboarding, rock climbing, gymnastics, martial arts, sailing and much more – for all ages. Flexible scheduling with single-day drop-in, 1and 2-week options. Payment plan and camp scholarships available. camps. berkeley.edu

EAST BAY KIDZ MATH CAMP (PIEDMONT) Age or Grade Range: Grades 4-7 ESPECIALLY DESIGNED FOR STUDENTS WHO ARE STRUGGLING! The East Bay Kidz Math Camp is a fun, 3-week investigation into mathematics with a hands-on approach to learning. This summer’s camp for rising 4th-7th graders focuses on key math building blocks, developing math confidence, along with engaging game-based indoor and outdoor activities. http:// tlcservices9.wixsite.com/east-bay-kidz

PLANETBRAVO TECHNO-TAINMENT CAMP (BERKELEY) Age or Grade Range: Grades 2-9 PlanetBravo offers one-week technology camps where students learn to code, make YouTube shows, mod Minecraft, design in Roblox, or 3D print! Each day is balanced with a healthy mix of indoor/outdoor activities. At the end of each week, there is an open house where students are recognized for their accomplishments. www.planetbravo. com/camps/berkeley

SARAH’S SCIENCE CAMP (BERKELEY & OAKLAND) Age or Grade Range: 5-15 Sarah’s Science is the Bay Area’s premier summer day camp with over

30 years of experience providing high quality science and nature programming. Each week of camp is centered around an exciting theme and campers make and take home new science projects every day. Camp also includes nature hikes, swimming, games, and arts and crafts. Ages 5-15. Weekly sessions from June 6 - August 24. Locations in Oakland and Berkeley. Camp hours 9AM - 3PM. Before- and After-care available. www.sarahscience. com/summer

ST. PAUL’S SUMMER CAMP (OAKLAND) Age or Grade Range: Grades K -8 St. Paul’s Summer Camp, a traditional day camp, offers one and two week camps. Summer Camp begins on June 11th and ends on August 17th. Daily excursion camps Counselor In Training Hoops Math and Science Medley Readers and Writers in the Garden Transitional Kindergarten Sixth Grade Transition camp Discounts Available https://www.spes.org/page/learning/ summer-camp

STELLAR ACADEMY FOR DYSLEXICS’ SUMMER CAMP FOR KIDS (NEWARK) Age or Grade Range: 1-8 Navigating school is hard enough without a language disability. That’s where Stellar Academy for Dyslexics’ SUMMER CAMP FOR KIDS comes in. Our half-day camp offers intense language arts instruction using the multi-sensory Slingerland approach woven together with lots of summer fun. We help students unlock the door of language. www.stellaracademy.org

SUMMER ACADEMY AT QUARRY LANE (DUBLIN) Age or Grade Range: Grades 6-12 Quarry Lane offers a comprehensive summer experience for students entering grades six through twelve. Our popular Summer Academy offers academic enrichment and opportunities for students, grades six through twelve, to receive credit for and advance in courses in the areas of math, science

and the humanities. Students who are looking for a creative outlet can explore a variety of visual and performing arts courses. www.QuarryLane.org/Summer

SUMMER FUN 2018 (ALAMEDA) Age or Grade Range: PreK to 5th The students will have a great time over the summer learning about: What is on a farm? What are senses? What do bugs do? What fun filled activities can be done during their spare time? www. risingstarschool.org

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY BENTLEY SCHOOL SUMMER PROGRAM (LAFAYETTE) Age or Grade Range: Grades 5-12 Bentley School’s 2018 Summer Program is open for registration! Our talented community of educators and coaches offer top notch experiences for an action-packed summer. Learn to play the guitar, tell a story that everyone will remember, capture memorable images or become a coder --all at our beautiful, safe Lafayette Campus. https://www. bentleyschool.net/page/student-life/ bentley-summer-program

HALSTROM ACADEMY SUMMER LEARNING ADVENTURES (CUPERTINO, SAN MATEO, WALNUT CREEK) Age or Grade Range: Grades 6-12 CATCH UP, MAKE UP OR GET AHEAD Over 140 courses offered this summer so you can master math, succeed in science, love foreign languages and make headway in history! Contact us to find the course you need. www. halstromacademy.org

SAN MATEO COUNTY BLUESTAMP ENGINEERING (PALO ALTO ) Age or Grade Range: Grades 9-12 BlueStamp Engineering is a handson STEM camp for high school

students. 6-weeks of hands-on build time with individualized projects bluestampengineering.com

KIDIZENS YOUNG MAYOR SUMMER CAMP (BELMONT) Age or Grade Range: 6-12 Would your child like to build and be the Mayor of an entire city of LEGOs? Would you like to leverage your child’s love of LEGOs to help them learn critical real-life, 21st century skills and strategies? https://thekidizens.com/ camps/lego-summer-camps/

SANTA CLARA COUNTY KIDIZENS YOUNG MAYOR SUMMER CAMP (LOS ALTOS) Age or Grade Range: 6-12 Would your child like to build and be the Mayor of an entire city of LEGOs?Would you like to leverage your child’s love of LEGOs to help them learn critical real-life, 21st century skills and strategies? Serve as a Co-Mayor for a week https://thekidizens.com/camps/ lego-summer-camps/

SILVER CREEK ACADEMY’S ACADEMIC CAMP (SAN JOSE ) Age or Grade Range: grades 1 - 8 Our summer academic camp at Laurelwood School will challenge students to think critically and creatively. The program will offer the best of our award-winning Silver Creek Academy academic programs. The students will be studying writing, reading comprehension, math problem solving, logic and critical thinking, public speaking, and much more! The academic camp will be taught by our credentialed, expert teachers, and is designed for small group instruction. All students will be assessed on the first day. The results will be analyzed and personalized curriculum will be created for each student to promote accelerated learning. The enjoyable program allows for personal attention and an individualized pace of learning. Our academic based camp includes many enjoyable activities for the students to take part in. These activities include: speech contests, raffle drawings, poetry contests, spelling bees, talent shows, writing contests and much more! SCAASanJose.com

Animals, Nature & Outdoors Camps ALAMEDA COUNTY BAY CAMPS (HAYWARD) Age or Grade Range: Preschool thru 8th Hey kids! Get up close and personal with bayshore nature in our Bay Camps! Meet birds and bugs, search for life in the mud, play games, go on a scientific voyage of discovery and learn why the shoreline is such an important place. Online registration begins in February. http://www.haywardrec. org/504/Summer-Camps

CALIFORNIA NURSERY HISTORICAL PARK CAMPS - JUNE 25 - JULY 27 (FREMONT) Age or Grade Range: 7-12 For more information, call (510) 7914196. (Ages 7-12) ‘NEW!’ The California Nursery Historical Park offers fun and educational camps this summer: five (5) options to choose from - Birds, Bugs, and Burrowing Animals (Jun 1822); Robin Hood’s Garden (Jun 25-29); California History and Horticulture (Jul 9-13); Alice’s Wonderland (Jul 16-20); and Niles All Around Us! (Jul 23-27). Youth will learn about, experience within, and have enjoy throughout in a wonderful, magical location full of history, flora, fauna, fantasy, and fun. Campers must bring a nonrefrigerated bag lunch, and drinks each day. PM extended care available for an additional fee. Held at California Nursery Historical Park, Niles Blvd. @ Nursery Ave., Fremont. www.regerec. com

FISHING CAMPS (HAYWARD)

Age or Grade Range: Ages 6-13 Calling all anglers! Our shoreline is home to many unique fish; come out and join us as we catch (and release) some of them. We will also learn about the diversity of bay life through crafts, hands-on exploration, and much more. All fishing equipment provided. Online registration begins in February. http:// www.haywardrec.org/hayshore.html

HIDDEN COVE DAY CAMP (ALAMEDA) Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-7 (Completed K or 1st grades) Explore and enjoy the exciting adventures of the great outdoors in this beginning camp experience! Activities include, but are not limited to hiking, camp skills, cooking, nature crafts, archery, and an out-of-town field trip on Friday. Parents/guardians are responsible for transportation, unless they register for the additional WOW-X program at either Godfrey or Washington Park. June 18-22, June 25-29, and July 2-6 (closed 7/4) www. alamedaca.gov/recreation

KIDS FOR THE BAY SUMMER CAMP (BERKELEY) Age or Grade Range: 5-14 Our Summer Camps take full advantage of the amazing natural spaces in our own backyard. Campers will explore bay and ocean shorelines, hike along beautiful creeks, discover insects in ponds, swim in a lake, go kayaking on the bay, enjoy twilight hiking and camp fire adventures and much more! kidsforthebay.org

MONKEY BUSINESS CAMP (BERKELEY) Age or Grade Range: 4.5-10 with youth leaders 11-16 In our 19th year, Monkey Business kids receive a distinctive classic camp experience in Tilden Park. Art, Cooking, Tinkering, Storytelling, Singing, Games, Nature Exploration, Swimming at Lake Anza, Treasure Hunts, Carnival Games, Organic Food! Our diverse staff is dynamic, engaging, skilled, empathetic and deeply passionate about their work with youth. Winner of many Best of Camp Parent’s Press Awards. Youth Leadership available for ages 11-16. Additional Pre-K camp for 3 weeks in August at indoor location near to Tilden for ages 3-4 and youth leaders 10+ with a Pre-K classroom set up and rester time. http://www.monkeybusinesscamp. com/

SARAH’S SCIENCE CAMP (BERKELEY & OAKLAND) Age or Grade Range: 5-15 Sarah’s Science is the Bay Area’s premier summer day camp with over 30 years of experience providing high quality science and nature programming. Each week of camp is centered around an exciting theme and campers make and take home new science projects every day. Camp also includes nature hikes, swimming, games, and arts and crafts. Ages 5-15. Weekly sessions from June 6 - August 24. Locations in Oakland and Berkeley. Camp hours 9AM - 3PM. Before- and After-care available. www.sarahscience. com/summer

SEES THE DAY SUMMER PROGRAM (BERKELEY) Age or Grade Range: 6-11 years old/ Counselors 12-16 years old Sees the Day is committed to instilling in children a respect and appreciation for each other and the natural world. Guest educators, ecoliteracy, nature awareness, self esteem games, beading, storytelling, fairy houses, thankful circles, love laughter and spontaneous summertime fun will round out a unique and dynamic experience for all! www.seestheday.org

SHAKE, RATTLE & ROLL (OAKLAND) Age or Grade Range: Ages: 11-15 This week-long, four-level camp session teaches outdoor living skill of: fire making, cordage, shelter building, dealing with water, plants as food and medicine, tracking and tool making in Joaquin Miller Park. Check for exact location. 9 am-4 pm $250/wk Extended Care: $60 Dates: June 18,

2018-August 10, 2018 To be taken in order: Beginners, Intermediate, & Advanced Bow Making. http://www2. oaklandnet.com/government/o/opr/s/ RotaryNatureCenter/index.htm

TOUCH THE EARTH (OAKLAND) Age or Grade Range: Ages: 6-12 Touch the Earth Camp: Each weeklong session focuses on a variety of nature-based themes under the magnificent Redwood trees in Joaquin Miller Park. Counselors lead children in nature hikes, arts and crafts, environmental awareness, swimming, games and more. 8 Weeks beginning June 18, 2018 and ending August 10, 2018. 9 am-4 pm $250./week Extended Care available: $60. http://www2. oaklandnet.com/government/o/opr/s/ RotaryNatureCenter/index.htm

TRACKERS BAY (BERKELEY) Age or Grade Range: PK-12 Trackers Earth offers award-winning summer camps. Parents know us as one of the best and most engaging camps in the Bay Area. Our day camps introduce your child to guided outdoor adventure, fantastic stories, and new friends. Our overnight camps offer authentic traditional skills, team building, and outdoor leadership. https://trackersbay. com

TRAILBLAZERS CAMP (ALAMEDA) Age or Grade Range: Ages 8-11 (Completed 3rd-5th grades) This three-day adventure will include hiking, camp skills (i.e. orienteering), cookouts, and swimming; an overnight and just plain fun in the untamed outdoors of Redwood Regional Park in the Oakland Hills. Campers need to bring a bag lunch on Monday and Tuesday; Tuesday dinner, Wednesday breakfast and lunch will be provided. Campers are bussed to and from Camp from with Franklin or Lincoln Park.

August 6-8, 2018 gov/recreation

www.alamedaca.

TRAILS END DAY CAMP (ALAMEDA) Age or Grade Range: Ages 7-11 (Completed 2nd-5th grades) Redwood Regional Park in the Oakland Hills provides the natural setting for the outdoor fun of hiking, camp skills (i.e. orienteering) cooking, nature crafts, and an out-of-town field trip on Friday. July 9-13, July 16-20, July 23-27, July 30 - August 3 www.alamedaca.gov/ recreation

TREE FROG TREKS WILD SCIENCE SUMMER CAMP (SAN FRANCISCO) Age or Grade Range: pre-k - 5th grade At Tree Frog Treks, campers spend every day outdoors, trekking through San Francisco and seeking out natural spaces and the living things that make them their home. Campers will meet our rescued reptiles, do wild experiments and experience hands-on learning with nature as our classroom. We Wander and Wonder Together! www. treefrogtreks.com

YOUNG NATURALIST (OAKLAND) Age or Grade Range: 5-10 Youth explore the natural world using Lake Merritt and Lakeside Park as their classroom. 6 weeks Beginning June 18, 2018 9 am-4 pm $200./week Extended care available: $60. http://www2. oaklandnet.com/government/o/opr/s/ RotaryNatureCenter/index.htm

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY JOHN MUIR MOUNTAIN DAY CAMP (MARTINEZ) Age or Grade Range: 5-12 John Muir Mountain Day Camp is based at the John Muir National Historic Site in Martinez where the

CAMPS

THIS LAND IS YOUR LAND A Summer Day Camp of Outdoor Science

™

For children ages 4 to 14

Connecting kids to nature . . . and making science fun Weekly Sessions: June 11 - August 24 Oakland Berkeley

For more information (510) 581-3739 or www.sarahscience.com March 2018 | Parents’ Press 9

FEATURED SUMMER CAMPS SARAH’S SCIENCE AND THIS LAND IS YOUR LAND SUMMER DAY CAMPS (BERKELEY & OAKLAND) Ages 5 to 15 years Sarah’s Science is the Bay Area’s premier summer day camp with over 30 years of experience providing high quality science and nature programming. Each week of camp is centered around an exciting theme and campers make and take home new science projects every day. Camp also includes nature hikes, swimming, games, and arts and crafts. Ages 5-15. Weekly sessions from June 13 - August 26. Locations in Oakland and Berkeley. Camp hours 9AM - 3PM. Before- and After-care available. For more information or to enroll in an upcoming camp, class, or workshop please visit www.sarahscience.com or call (510) 581-3739.

PLANETBRAVO TECHNO-TAINMENT CAMP (BERKELEY) Grades 2-9 PlanetBravo offers one-week technology camps where students learn to code, make YouTube shows, mod Minecraft, design in Roblox, or 3D print! Each day is balanced with a healthy mix of indoor/outdoor activities. At the end of each week, there is an open house where students are recognized for their accomplishments. www.planetbravo.com/camps/berkeley

PRIDE IN LEARNING SOCIAL SKILLS (SAN JOSE) Preschool to High School Our 2018 PLSS summer day camp is designed to foster collaboration between typical able peers and peers struggling with ASD, ADHD and other social language disorders. PLSS day camp is about successfully navigating the social world. http://www.pediatricspeech.com/home/social-skills-language-camp/ social-skills-summer-camp/

YOUNG ARTISTS CAMP–XIAN YUN ACADEMY OF THE ARTS (SAN FRANCISCO) Ages 5-12 This day-camp offers ballet and classical Chinese dance, letting your child explore artistic traditions from the two most comprehensive dance systems in the world. Classes include ballet technique, Chinese dance fundamentals, flexibility, and tumbling. After lunch, students engage in arts/crafts projects and outdoor activities. Sessions culminate with in-studio performances. https://www.xianyunca.com/young-artists-day-camp/

famous naturalist, preservationist, writer, farmer and father lived. Campers explore Muir’s land and home, the animals and plants that live there, and learn how Muir’s legacy is still helping the earth. www.muircamp.org

MARIN COUNTY AVID4 ADVENTURE (MILL VALLEY) 10 Parents’ Press | March 2018

Age or Grade Range: Grades Pre-K-7 This summer, experience the power of authentic outdoor adventure. Avid4 Adventure Summer Camps for entering pre-K - 7th graders are in your community! Through outdoor activities like biking, climbing, paddling and hiking, kids build confidence, learn to take positive risks and are inspired to stay active. Backed by our inclusive, time-tested curriculum

and highly qualified instructors, kids of all abilities develop outdoor skills that instill a lifelong love of adventure. Learn more today at www.avid4.com or call 800-977-9873 www.avid4.com

SAN FRANCISCO NATURE NURTURE (SAN

FRANCISCO) Age or Grade Range: Ages 3-14 Established in Presidio of SF 2004, Nature Nurture is an all-outdoor character enhancement program. Signature class size of six campers along with no man-made materials provides your child with individual attention and a genuine focus and connection with nature and peers,

while enjoying child-paced nature walks, explorations and adventures throughout the Presidio. www. naturenurture.com

SF STATE SUMMER YOUTH SAILING AND PADDLING CAMPS (SAN FRANCISCO) Age or Grade Range: 8-15 We are a sailing, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding safety and activity instruction curriculum and environmental education program on beautiful Lake Merced in San Francisco. Safety is our number one priority. Instructors are experienced and we provide all boats and related equipment. Boats are top quality and easy to operate. http://rpt.sfsu.edu/ sailing

SANTA CLARA COUNTY CAMP UNALAYEE (PALO ALTO) Age or Grade Range: Ages 10-17 Camp Unalayee has been taking kids on outdoor adventures since 1949. Located in Northern California’s Trinity Alps, we are a non-profit, co-ed wilderness summer camp that provides meaningful outdoor experiences for children ages 10-17. Whether boating, backpacking, making crafts or learning leadership skills, campers learn how to safely enjoy a remarkably beautiful wilderness setting. As a non-profit, Unalayee takes great pride in welcoming children from all walks of life. Unalayee provides assistance to many of its campers, allowing kids from all income levels to have a wilderness summer camp experience. Our program actively teaches campers confidence, compassion, community, and conservation. As a wilderness summer camp, Unalayee is proud to have introduced thousands of kids to backcountry living while maintaining an impeccable safety record. Kids in our summer camp programs learn about themselves as they learn to live in the wilderness. The rugged terrain of the Trinity Alps provides a challenging and dramatic backdrop for wilderness adventure. gocampu.org

HIDDEN VILLA SUMMER CAMP (LOS ALTOS HILLS) Age or Grade Range: ages 4-18 Life on the farm provides campers an opportunity to enjoy a wide range of fun activities. Whether six or sixteen, youth explore our wilderness, discover the magic of compost, and participate in our social justice curriculum. https:// hiddenvilla.org/programs/summercamps

Arts & Crafts Camps ALAMEDA COUNTY CAMP KALA (BERKELEY) Age or Grade Range: Ages 6-17 Engage in hands-on art activities while working in a professional studio environment at Kala Art Institute. Class sizes are small so everyone receives individual attention from Kala’s fabulous teaching artists and assistants. Each week offers new projects and materials culminating in a gallery exhibition and celebration of student work. Discover new creativity this summer at Camp Kala! With a variety of different camp options with different age ranges, teens and children can fuel their creative energy in printing, drawing, painting sculpture and more! http://www.kala.org/ education/camp-kala/

DANCING PAINTBRUSH STUDIO (ALBANY, CA) Age or Grade Range: 5-17 At Dancing Paintbrush Studio’s Art Camps, children and teens can let their imaginations soar! Our philosophy is that we teach the fundamentals of fine arts skills and basic techniques in our day camp program, while nurturing creativity and individuality in a fun and relaxed camp atmosphere. We provide high quality materials so

that our students can have the best experience of making art, and the results will also last. (Acid free paper and high grade paints and drawing materials). We’re very excited to have won the Award for Best Summer Arts Camp from Parent’s Press Best of the Bay! 10-12 students per session! www. DancingPaintbrushStudio.com

DEBORAH DAVIS’S CREATIVE WRITING CAMP (BERKELEY) Age or Grade Range: Grades 7-12 Have fun writing what YOU want to write! Join published author Deborah Davis in this supportive smallgroup camp to develop your creative writing interests and skills. You’ll generate story ideas, create exciting plots, imagine complex characters, and explore writing techniques–and gain confidence with your writing. Hesitant writers welcome! http://www. deborahdavisauthor.com

Valley Potter’s Studio! Located inside the gates of CNL Plant Nursery, in Tam Junction, kids ages 7-10 will learn, create, get messy and have fun in a relaxed indoor/outdoor garden environment. They will pinch clay, coil, build and play on the potter’s wheel. Daily guided lessons and light snacks will be provided. It’s a refreshing and relaxing way to spend the summer mornings. Sign up for the following weeklong sessions: Session #1 – 6/25 through 6/29 Session #2 – 7/09 through 7/13 Session #3 – 7/23 through 7/27 http://millvalleypottersstudio.com/ classes/#camp

Culinary Camps ALAMEDA COUNTY

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CAMP COMMUNITY ARTS (WALNUT CREEK) Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-14 Infuse your child’s spring, summer and winter break with the arts! Camp Community Arts offers creative arts experiences and outdoor adventures for students ages 5-14. Campers take classes in a range of mediums including visual arts (painting, drawing, clay, printmaking), fiber arts, glass, digital media, and performing arts (theater, dance, music and voice) as well as go on field trips, and have fun outdoors. Every day is fast-paced and full of activities. Your child will choose a track to focus on (e.g. visual arts, performing arts, digital media), while also trying a variety of other art forms. You might start your morning in a stop motion animation class, spend the afternoon swimming, or end the day with African drumming and dancing. All of your Camp Community Arts teachers will be working artists who will give you lots of one-on-one attention. We promise you’ll never get bored! http://www. communityarts.org/camps

SUMMER ART CAMP (RICHMOND) Age or Grade Range: 5-17 Unleash your child’s creativity this summer! Art Camp at the RAC gives kids and teens an exciting immersion in visual art practice. Daily projects include drawing, painting, printmaking, textile arts and sculpture. Art Camp runs weekly, Monday to Friday, with a varied curriculum. Whole and half-days available, with extended hours for dropoff and pick up. Art Camp is geared to ages 5-12, and with a special teenfocused Summer Art Lab for ages 14-17. http://richmondartcenter.org/camp/

THE ARTROOM (LAFAYETTE) Age or Grade Range: Ages 4-17 EVER-CHANGING CYCLE OF ART From June 11 - August 24, our weeklong summer camps will let your artists experiment with a variety of media. We will have the artists immerse themselves in three-dimensional work and gain experience with sketching, drawing, pastels, canvas painting, ceramics, and creating collaborative artwork! https://www.theart-room.com/

Age or Grade Range: Ages 7-12 A typical day includes cooking with guest chefs, reinforcing knife and safety skills through hands-on cooking, whipping up lunch and tasting our creations throughout the day. We will learn how to taste and smell our way through improvisational cooking as well as learn favorite recipes from our culinary friends. We’ll also get to meet and cook with farmers and artisans all over the Bay Area! Children 7-12 are welcome to attend the week that corresponds with their age range. Each week-long camp session will have 1015 campers with a camper/adult ratio of 3:1. Classes are led by guest chefs, and assisted by food and nutritionloving counselors, from UC Berkeley, Paris, and across the US! http://www.

CAMPS

JCAS SUMMER CAMP (OAKLAND) Age or Grade Range: 5-12 Summer Camp at JCAS Create and Explore with JCAS this summer! We offer fun, hands-on and creative camps in the arts and sciences for ages 5-12 years old. Campers can play and experiment in classes including visual arts, engineering, ecology, and carpentry. www.juniorcenter.org

SPROUTS COOKING CAMPS (OAKLAND)

Summer at

Quarry Lane

A Private Jr. K-12 College Preparatory School 6363 Tassajara Rd., Dublin, CA 925.829.8000

Summer Engineering Camp

Summer Academy

ESL Summer Camp

Explore. Create. Innovate.

For students entering grades 3-8 Our Summer Engineering Camp offers a dynamic, engaging program designed to spark the imagination and creativity of our campers while building solid engineering and technology skills.

Summer Academy

For students entering grades 6-12 Get ahead this summer! Our popular Summer Academy offers a number of academic summer courses for middle and high school students looking to advance in subjects includingmath, science and language arts.

Summer Sessions: June 12- July 21 Register at

www.QuarryLane.org/Summer

MARIN COUNTY MILL VALLEY POTTER’S STUDIO CLAY SUMMER CAMP EXPERIENCE (MILL VALLEY) Age or Grade Range: Ages 7-10 HALF-DAY SUMMER CAMP ages 7-10 years old Monday – Friday – 9:00am – 12:00pm $380/wk Join the Clay Summer Camp Experience at Mill

Education is a lifelong committment

March 2018 | Parents’ Press 11

CAL

sproutscookingclub.org/

MARIN COUNTY THE CULINARY DUDE’S SUMMER COOKING CAMPS (TIBURON) Age or Grade Range: 5-15 Because your children are not numbers to us, our focus is to cater to each child individually, help them where they need improvement and cap our camps numbers, 25 maximum, to keep the class intimate, so your child does not get lost in the masses. The goal is to offer your child an environment that feels like they are truly a part of the whole, unlike other programs who just want your money. Your kids are important to us! Established in 2005, The Culinary Dude, Scott Davis has been teaching both kid and adult cooking classes, summer, winter & holiday cooking camps for kids, running food related programs, services and events all over California. With degrees

12 Parents’ Press | March 2018

in culinary arts and education, The Culinary Dude has the ability to engage students of all ages in the best cooking classes in the Bay Area. Fun, health, safety, nutrition and teamwork are at the center of each class that we teach. Our goal is to empower children in the kitchen to be self-sufficient and make healthy choices. Hands On Culinary Arts? YES! www.theculinarydude.com

SAN FRANCISCO JCCSF (SAN FRANCISCO) Age or Grade Range: K - 8 Themed Activities Musical Theater Culinary Outdoor Water Parks Field Trips Aquarium Tours Sports Gymnastics Dance Acrobatics Yoga Photography 3d Printing Maker STEAM Woodshop www.JCCSF.org/ summercamp

THE CULINARY DUDE’S SUMMER COOKING CAMPS (SAN FRANCISCO)

Age or Grade Range: 5-15 Because your children are not numbers to us, our focus is to cater to each child individually, help them where they need improvement and cap our camps numbers, 25 maximum, to keep the class intimate, so your child does not get lost in the masses. The goal is to offer your child an environment that feels like they are truly a part of the whole, unlike other programs who just want your money. Your kids are important to us! Established in 2005, The Culinary Dude, Scott Davis has been teaching both kid and adult cooking classes, summer, winter & holiday cooking camps for kids, running food related programs, services and events all over California. With degrees in culinary arts and education, The Culinary Dude has the ability to engage students of all ages in the best cooking classes in the Bay Area. Fun, health, safety, nutrition and teamwork are at the center of each class that we teach. Our goal is to empower children in the kitchen to be self-sufficient and make

healthy choices. Hands On Culinary Arts? YES! www.theculinarydude.com

Dance and Ballet Camps ALAMEDA COUNTY KATHRYN ROSZAK’S SUMMER DANCE CAMP (BERKELEY) Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-Teen Popular children/teen dance camp with professional choreographers as teachers. Offers Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Point, Choreography, Crafts, and Performances. Our kids attend every year. Wonderful dance training , creativity. Nurturing atmosphere. Fun and inspiring. Teachers are outstanding! Our favorite camp and we wouldn’t miss it! Parent, 2017 www. dlkdance.com www.dlkdance.com

SADC SUMMERDANCELAB (BERKELEY) Age or Grade Range: 4-18 Join us this summer to strengthen your technique, expand your creative voice, and experience something new in one or our SummerDanceLab intensives and camps. We have something for every age dancer 4-18, at every level from beginner to pre-professional, in all styles of dance. Let’s Dance! https://www.shawl-anderson.org/ summerdancelab

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY COMMUNITY ARTS SUMMER DANCE INTENSIVE (WALNUT CREEK) Age or Grade Range: Ages 9-19 This 3-week intensive features worldclass teachers from Diablo Ballet and professional ballet companies. Designed for students with at least one year ballet experience. Includes ballet technique, pointe (if applicable), repertoire, character dance, modern, jazz, and floor barre. July 9th- July 27th. Placement class: Mar. 7 at 5pm. For questions: Rebecca@DiabloBallet. org. communityarts.org/intensives/ professional-training-program

MARIN COUNTY DANCE ARTS CAMPS (SAN RAFAEL) Age or Grade Range: ages 5-10 year olds Dance Arts Camps: Come dance, create, and make new friends in our one-week programs that include ballet, jazz/ contemporary, crafts, creating your own choreography, and more! Each week will have a fun theme such as The Sea, The Forest, The Toyshop, and The Seasons. There will be a studio performance on the last day of class. For dancers age 5-6 and 6-10. These are one-week camps (M-F). Students do not need to have prior ballet experience to participate, but they should be prepared for a lot of twirling, crafts and imaginative adventures! For more information or to register please visit www.mdt.org. www.mdt.org

Faith-Based Camps ALAMEDA COUNTY

CHALICE CAMP (OAKLAND)

mtumc.org/#/ministries/children

Age or Grade Range: Grades 1-6 A week of Unitarian Universalist community with lots of laughter, fun, and learning. Daily worship, lessons about Unitarian Universalist history and theology, camp crafts, outdoor fun, and an amazing team of counselors and counselors in training make this many children’s favorite camp of the summer. chalicecamp.org

Foreign Language and Cultural Immersion Camps

FCC KIDS CAMP (OAKLAND ) Age or Grade Range: Entering 1-6 Mystery themed VBS style camp, affordable, loved by kids, skits, songs, crafts, games, snacks, etc. 9am-3pm, before care and aftercare available, CIT program for 7th grade and up, register online! oaklandfcc.org

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY CAMP GAN ISRAEL (WALNUT CREEK) Age or Grade Range: PreK - 8 Camp Gan Israel is a summer day camp dedicated to enriching the lives of children from diverse Jewish backgrounds and affiliations through a stimulating camping experience including field trips, swimming, sports, gymnastics, drama, art, music, Rock Climbing, Shabbat Fun and special Overnights. This year based at the Seven Hills School. www.jewishcontracosta. com

MARIN COUNTY PEACE CAMP (MILL VALLEY) Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-12 Peace Camp is a loving, nurturing and welcoming environment for all children ages 5-12. Campers will be immersed in peacemaking activities as experienced through spiritual practices, the arts, cooperative outdoor games, yoga, music, and more. Our mission is to equip and empower children, through God’s love and grace, to be peacemakers in the world. All faiths and spiritual traditions are invited to learn, grow and play with us! June 25-29 9am-3pm Extended care available 8:30am-5:30pm Mount Tamalpais United Methodist Church 410 Sycamore Ave, Mill Valley 5 days - $197 per child Extended care $25 per family 3 hours of parent volunteer time per family requested *Scholarships available http://www.

ALAMEDA COUNTY HANWEN MANDARIN IMMERSION SUMMER CAMP (BERKELEY)

kidseliteclub.com No previous knowledge of Mandarin is required. www.kidseliteclub.com

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY SPANISH IMMERSION CAMPS (LAFAYETTE) Age or Grade Range: Ages 5 to 10 Camps at Viva el EspaÃ±ol are designed

Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-10 Campers engage in each week’s theme through hands-on activities like cooking, drawing, crafting, engineering, and puppeteering. Children get into the habit of using and speaking Chinese by engaging with our native Chinese teachers throughout the day. Children also learn vocabulary related to each week’s themes and activities. http:// hanwenschool.org/summer

HANWEN SCHOOL MANDARIN IMMERSION SUMMER SCIENCE CAMP (BERKELEY) Age or Grade Range: Grade K-5 Perform science experiments while learning Chinese at Hanwen Summer Science Camp! Different one-week sessions give campers the chance to perform hands-on science experiments and learn Chinese vocabulary words related to each week’s theme. Our activities engage children to actively listen and speak Chinese. http:// hanwenschool.org/summer

LE CAMP D’ETE (BERKELEY) Age or Grade Range: 3.5-12 At Le Camp d’Eté, we focus on language acquisition for children through verbal, written, and reading exercises as well as through participation in a myriad of outdoor activities, sports, and games. Previous exposure to French language is not required. We offer a valuable experience for all children! lecampdete. com

S.T.E.A.M MANDARIN CAMP (ALAMEDA) Age or Grade Range: 5-14 Kids Elite Club offers students S.T.E.A.M science, technology, languages, art, Jewelry Making, robotics, 3D Puzzle, 3D Printing, indoor mini Golf, wall climbing, sports and computer programming for Afterschool, Summer Camp and Non-school day. For more details please check www.

CAMPS

Summer Camp 2018 El Cerrito Recreation Department

EL CERRITO SPORTS CAMP Non-competitive and Co-ed since 1992 Sunday Soccer & Baseball

@ Canyon Trail Park

Spring Session: April 1 – May 27 Head coach: Joel Gildersleeve

Large Selection of Camps for Grades K-12 • • • • • • • •

Special Events, Themes & Activities Visual & Performing Arts Engineering & Science Leadership Sports & Swimming Field Trips Full & 1/2 Day Options Flexible Schedule

For more information visit www.el-cerrito.org/recreation or call (510) 559-7000. To register visit 7007 Moeser Lane, El Cerrito or www.el-cerrito.org/onlinereg

Soccer 12:00-1:20 pm Ages: 4-5, 6-7, 8-10 Baseball 1:30-3:00 pm Ages: 4-5 & 6-8 Ongoing, on-site Registration. Fees prorated from starting date. Same fees resident/non-res. Sibling discount. Fresh fruit snack break. Rain outs made up.

Summer Sports Camps

@ Cerrito Vista Park

Options: Morning, Afternoon, and All Day Sports & Games Camp ~ Soccer Camp Baseball Camp Early drop off available from 7:00 am

www.elcerritosportscamp.com (510) 559-8208 March 2018 | Parents’ Press 13

to give children a unique opportunity to learn, practice, and improve their Spanish language skills. Week-long sessions are centered around a specific theme and consist of interactive games, music and movement activities, arts & crafts. Beginner students learn basic language skills to supplement the vocabulary linked to each theme. More advanced students learn useful phrases, grammatical concepts, and practice their conversational Spanish. Each week culminates with a sing-along and presentation where the kids get to show off what they have learned. Sessions run Monday thru Friday. Ages 5 to 10. Campers may sign up for any number of sessions! www.vivaelespanol.org

MARIN COUNTY SPANISH IMMERSION CAMPS (MILL VALLEY) Age or Grade Range: Ages 5 to 10 Camps at Viva el Español are designed to give children a unique opportunity to learn, practice, and improve their Spanish language skills. Week-long sessions are centered around a specific theme and consist of interactive games, music and movement activities, and arts & crafts. Beginner students learn basic language skills to supplement the vocabulary linked to each theme. More advanced students learn useful phrases, grammatical concepts, and practice their conversational Spanish. Each week culminates with a sing-along and presentation where the kids get to show off what they have learned. Sessions run Monday thru Friday. Ages 5 to 10. Campers may sign up for any number of sessions!

SAN FRANCISCO

Age or Grade Range: for children in Kindergarten through 5th grade Our camp strives to develop or improve our students’ skills in Mandarin and enhance their knowledge of Asian cultures through age-appropriate activities that include classroom sessions, step-by-step drawing and painting, poetry, singing, dancing, and playground visits. Each week of camp has a theme, such as Year of the Dog or Superheroes. http://www. asianartsschool.com/SUMMER-CAMP. html

AAS ART AND MANDARIN SUMMER CAMP (SAN FRANCISCO) Age or Grade Range: for children in Kindergarten through 5th grade Our camp strives to develop or improve our students’ skills in Mandarin and enhance their knowledge of Asian cultures through age-appropriate activities that include classroom sessions, step-by-step drawing and painting, poetry, singing, dancing, and playground visits. Each week of camp has a theme, such as Year of the Dog or Superheroes. http://www. asianartsschool.com/SUMMER-CAMP. html

EFBA FRENCH IMMERSION CAMPS (SAN FRANCISCO) Age or Grade Range: Ages 4-12 The EFBA summer camps offers fun weekly themes that are especially thought and created to spark the curiosity and the child’s motivation to play in French. Children discover the francophones cultures through singing, arts and crafts, self-expression activities, indoor and outdoor play role and athletic games... among others. https://efba.us/french-summer-campsbay-area-2/kids-k-5th/

General & Traditional Day Camps ALAMEDA COUNTY CAL YOUTH CAMPS (BERKELEY) Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-17 Cal Youth Camps offers a variety of award-winning camps and sport/ outdoor activities – including swimming, skateboarding, rock climbing, gymnastics, martial arts, sailing and much more – for all ages. Flexible scheduling with single-day drop-in, 1- and 2-week options. Payment plan and camp scholarships available. Register by Feb 28 for early bird discounts!

CAMP KEE TOV (BERKELEY, CA) Age or Grade Range: Grades K-9 For over 50 years, Camp Kee Tov has been the place for youth of the Bay Area to come together, allowing for a special and unique community to form. Kee Tov programming is dynamic; ever adapting to our campers’ developmental and social needs. Each day is structured to enhance this development of campers through a wide scope of activities. We hope to see you this summer at one of our 4-week sessions: for fees, dates and FAQs, visit us at www.campkeetov.org www.campkeetov.org

DARUMA NO GAKKO (BERKELEY) Age or Grade Range: K-6 Daruma no Gakko is a four-week summer program designed for children in grades K-6 to learn about their heritage through the program’s unique Japanese American curriculum. It was originally conceived as a program to develop strong, positive self-images and identities through the study of Japanese American history, literature, language, music, art, food, field trips and community involvement. http:// www.daruma-no-gakko.org/

YOUTH BOATING & SAILING CAMPS (OAKLAND) Age or Grade Range: 7-17 Boating Camps ages 7 to 17, basic boating to advanced sailing. Younger

2018 ART AND MANDARIN SUMMER CAMP (SAN FRANCISCO)

CAMPS Summer Day

Dance Camp at the East Bay Dance Center

Key Camp Search Questions

You Didn’t Know You Needed to Ask

• DANCE • MUSIC • ART • DRAMA & FUN! Flexible scheduling: June 11 - Aug 10 Affordable Rates. Ages 4-16 years

Also Available Spring Break Camp: April 2 - April 6

1318 Glenfield Ave. (off Park Blvd.) Oakland • (510) 336-3262

www.eastbaydancecenter.org

Creating More Confident Kids Since 1990!

re there deal-breaking parameters for our family’s camp search? What is non-negotiable for us? Session length, location, and activities are often non-negotiable. Can you be flexible about number of weeks? Location – a camp that must be in a certain state or within a certain zip code? Activities – horseback riding, Lacrosse, theatre or other activities that are the child’s favorite? Every parameter cannot be a deal breaker, but be honest about the aspects of the search that are not flexible for your family. • What’s driving my camp search? Does my child want to be a camper? Un-paralleled fun and learning? The opportunity for new experiences? To develop new skills? Family tradition? The need for child care? Answers to these questions will influence your options. • How do I uncover a full range of camp options that might suit my child’s current needs and interests? Word of mouth is a great way to add additional options. Ask people whose children share interests with yours. Ask community people who know your child, coaches and staff of extracurricular activities or after school programs.

Spanish Immersion Classes & Camps Engaging curriculum uses music, art & games Experienced, dynamic teachers Ages toddlers to teens Small class sizes

r us fo Join elling, t story , art, i s mu c and s game of fun S TON spañol! -in e

Call today for your FREE trial class!

20% discount when you enroll the day of your FREE trial class

www.vivaelespanol.org • 925-962-9177 Lafayette • Pleasanton • and many schools all over the Bay Area

14 Parents’ Press | March 2018

• What educational philosophy will best match my child’s temperament and compliment their current school experience? What values are important to you in terms of how the camp runs its program and trains its staff? Do you want a camp that emphasizes structure and responsibility? One that emphasizes free play and choice? How do the camps you are considering build community and encourage independence? • What is my budget for camp? There’s a camp out there for everyone! Some camps offer financial assistance. Financial aid procedures vary from camp to camp, so don’t be afraid to ask questions. Read camp brochures and websites carefully for information and application instructions. • How is the programming at this camp designed to grow with my child over the years? On average, what percentage of campers return for a second year? A fifth year? Yes, you’re looking for camp for THIS coming summer, but camps design programming so children can return in future summers since some of the leadership and other skills are not instantly acquired, but gained over the course of a few summers. Article provided by the American Camp Association.

kids start with pedalboats, canoes, and kayaks then Optis for sailing. Each camp builds skills and introduces new boats to progress from Lake Merritt to Estuary. More at www.sailoakland.com 510-238-2196. 9am–3:30pm. B/A 8am6pm at Lake Merritt. $200-$395/week. www.sailoakland.com

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY JR. CAMP (SAN PABLO) Age or Grade Range: Grades Entering 1st-3rd At Jr. Camp we provide a nurturing environment where kids are encouraged to try new activities and to build healthy minds through creative play. There will be a variety of activities, games, sports and field trips. SanPabloRec.com

KIDDIE KAMP (SAN PABLO) Age or Grade Range: Ages 3-5 Join us for an amazing summer program for your kiddies! This program is designed to introduce toddlers what being in a summer camp is all about. In this program we offer fun events with weekly summer themes and special entertainment along with outdoor games, arts and crafts and much more! Toddlers must be 100% Potty-Trained NO Pull-Ups. SanPabloRec.com

TEEN CAMP (SAN PABLO) Age or Grade Range: Grades Entering 7th-12th Teen Camp is a place for teens to get active, learn valuable life skills, and have fun in the process. Our camp experience offers teens a chance to explore new activities whether it’s sports, art, writing, our goal is to get teens active and engaged. SanPabloRec. com

SAN FRANCISCO SALESIAN DAY CAMP (NORTH BEACH) Age or Grade Range: 3 1/2-8 years old Salesian Day Camp is a Traditional Camp. -Arts n Crafts -Cooking and Baking -Yoga -Sports every Monday afternoon -Guest Speaker on Tuesday afternoon ie. Lizard Lady -Wednesday field trips -Thursday Specials; Birthday Party, Luau, Carnival -Friday Outdoor Adventure Early and After care included in weekly tuition. www. salesianclub.org

SANTA CLARA COUNTY CASTI CAMP FOR GIRLS (PALO ALTO) Age or Grade Range: Grades 2-9 Casti Camp, located at Castilleja School, is all-day, all-girl fun! We combine cherished traditions with activities that are relevant and interesting for girls today. Our camp is open to rising 2nd-6th graders, and we offer a vibrant Counselor-in-Leadership-Training (CiLT) program to rising 7th-9th graders. Learn more at www.castilleja.org/casticamp. Girls Rule! Our campers have a wide range of camp activities from which to choose, and we empower them to select the activities that spark their interest. The choices are wide and varied and are designed by our counselors to inspire creativity, risk-taking, friendship, and responsibility. The camp day balances independence -- as each camper follows her unique schedule of activities -with time spent in small counselor-led groups to give a consistent place to start and end each day. Campers also enjoy special activities on Fridays including field trips, camper showcases, and allcamp carnivals. www.castilleja.org/ casticamp

Serving fun to Bay Area families since 1991, Jefunira Camp provides a playbased, inclusive camp for children of all ages. Jefunira Camp’s unique activities and games foster the imagination, promote participation, encourage collaboration, and develop self-esteem and self-confidence. Come join us for some good old-fashioned summer fun! Je-fun-ira put the FUN in summer! jefuniracamp.com

Health and Special Needs Camps QUEST THERAPEUTIC CAMPS (DANVILLE) Age or Grade Range: 5-19 Quest provides an innovative treatment program for children/teens with emotional/social problems through camp activities with individual treatment plans and daily group therapy. Led by Robert Field, Ph.D. and four other licensed therapists, campers have fun and learn new emotional coping and social skills. 6/11-7/28, 9:00am-3:30 pm www.questcamps.com

PRIDE IN LEARNING SOCIAL SKILLS (SAN JOSE) Age or Grade Range: Preschool to high school Our 2018 PLSS summer day camp is designed to foster collaboration between typical able peers and peers struggling with ASD, ADHD and other social language disorders. PLSS day camp is about successfully navigating the social world. http://www.pediatricspeech. com/home/social-skills-language-camp/ social-skills-summer-camp/

Horse Riding Camps

JEFUNIRA CAMP (PALO ALTO)

MORNING STAR FARM (NOVATO)

Age or Grade Range: 4-14

Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-14 Offering english and western riding

camps. Our 30th year! June 4th-Aug 24th Focusing on Riding instruction with horse care, trail ride, vaulting and games on horseback. See web for details on each camp. Mini camps for 5-7yrs Full day or 1/2 day for ages 8-14 Western/Rodeo camp ages 8-14 Jumping camp ages 8-14 www. morningstarfarm.info

Music Camps Voice and Instrument ALAMEDA COUNTY JAZZSCHOOL GIRLS’ JAZZ & BLUES CAMP (BERKELEY) Age or Grade Range: Ages 11-18 Produced by Jean Fineberg and Ellen Seeling with an all women faculty from the Montclair Women’s Big Band, this instrumental and vocal camp provides a supportive environment where girls hone improvisational, technical and ensemble skills, meet new friends and create music with other young musicians. Culminates in a final concert. www.cjc.edu/girlscamp

PACIFIC BOYCHOIR ACADEMY SUMMER DAY CAMP (OAKLAND) Age or Grade Range: Boys, Ages 5-10 Boys play, build relationships, learn to collaborate and develop their musical, and social skills. Guided by PBA’s highly qualified staff and alumni counselors, boys learn with hands-on Orff instruments, Kodaly games and activities, music theory, and vocal coaching. Team-building games and exciting off-site adventures include swimming, hiking, bowling, and more! http://www.pacificboychoir.org/Camp

CAMPS

2018

ZOOCAMP ZooCamp is an exciting week of animal adventure, nature discovery, and FUN for kids pre-K through High School.

Camps run mid-June through mid-August

Registration opens mid-March! connect with Oakland Zoo online

oaklandzoo.org March 2018 | Parents’ Press 15

LITTLE THEATER COMPANY (ALAMEDA) Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-11 At The Little Theater Company we believe in bringing the joy of theater to kids of ages 5-11 in ways that are relevant in their lives. We believe in using the teachings of Theater to help enhance your campers confidence, creativity and character. At Little Theater Company students will have the chance to create productions from scratch including creating their very own costumes, backdrops and props all from their imagination. We put on a 20 minute production at the end of each week to share with friends and family. Little Theater Company is a place where your kids will want to come time and time again. www.littletheatercompany. com

MUSIC DISCOVERY WORKSHOP AND YOUTH COLLEGIUM (BERKELEY)

EQ! How Camp Experiences Boost Camper’s Emotional and Social Skills

he major media has featured several articles in recent months about the importance of fostering children’s emotional and social intelligence. The research backs this up. It turns out that nice kids really do finish first! Beyond that, social skills can and do predict future success. Something’s definitely happened to convince parents and educators of this truth. School resources are now featuring new curricula and parenting publications and blogs posts are encouraging parents as children’s first teachers to value this skill set above most others. All of the sudden developing children’s EQ is a focus and the next new thing. For New England’s summer camp world, it’s not a new thing! Day and overnight summer camps have long specialized in introducing, nurturing, and developing this skill set. Over the century and a half since the Camp Movement was founded in New England, there have been many discussions and analyses of the skill sets that camp experiences boost. Social and emotional learning has been referred to as “soft” skills; convincing educators and parents of their value has sometimes been a slow slog. Here are some of the ways camp experiences build EQ and contribute mightily to children’s social and emotional learning: • Camps hire staff to facilitate the group experience. Trained counselors help children understand how their actions impact the group, assist in conflict resolution as they teach it, and help children get along. The expectation that children grow socially and emotionally may be new to some children. Camp living teaches young people how to be responsible to the group. • Living, working and playing together at camp helps children get to know each other very well, potentially making it easier to empathize with others. Trained counselors help with this too. • Camps offer character education. Camp life lends itself to helping children build character. A lot about camp programming can teach children right and wrong. There are clear rules to follow and less clear situational decisions to make that build character. The simple lessons that camp life fosters provide character education. It’s not unusual at all to have an all camp ceremony in which a camp leader like a director or an emerging leader like a Counselor in Training gives a talk about something character-related. Top topics are: friendship, respect, honesty, and strength. There are many ways that camp experiences influence children’s character development and the kind of citizens they grow into.

SAN FRANCISCO GILBERT & SULLIVAN SCENES (SAN FRANCISCO) Age or Grade Range: 10-18 The Gilbert & Sullivan Scenes program explores the Topsy-Turvy world of rollicking pirates, damsels in distress, and modern major generals! Lamplighters Music Theatre artistic staff directs daily classes in singing, acting, and stage movement. The program culminates in a fully staged and costumed performance. Admission by audition. sfcm.edu/summer

SUMMER PROGRAMS AT SFCM (SAN FRANCISCO) Age or Grade Range: Age 10 - 18 Students will thrive in the nonresidential Composition Workshop

16 Parents’ Press | March 2018

• Camps influence children’s conduct, to use an old-school term. Campers learn how to act at camp—why certain kinds of behavior won’t fly with peers and what’s not going to be popular with adults. With counselors to role model positive behavior and coach children through challenging moments, camp experiences help children understand how to conduct themselves.

Learning to regulate emotion and how to express emotion in public are benefits of the camp experience too. It’s difficult for children to understand today what is appropriate when the celebrities and athletes they look up to don’t seem to excel at this!

At camp, things get emotional.

Excitement: Campers are constantly looking forward to a thrilling event. There’s a lot to know about what excitement looks like and appropriate ways to express it.

Fear: Campers and counselors are constantly busting out of their comfort zones to do scary things (physically and emotionally). Camp can provide the perfect opportunity to do something that is emotionally scary.

Anger: Sports contests, wet socks on the cabin floor, an argument with a friend, no room to have pottery as an elective, there are many things that could cause a camper to lose it. Trained counselors help children figure out how to express it.

Sadness: Anyone who has ever attended a closing campfire has seen what it looks like when a group of campers feel sad all at once. We live in a world that doesn’t really help children learn how to say goodbye to friends they may never see again. This is a very useful life skill to learn! Just getting through a day at camp is an exercise in regulating and expressing emotion appropriately.

• Camps set the stage for developing competencies in the social-emotional realm. Camp experiences promote all the competencies of CASEL, the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning: social awareness, responsible decision-making skills, self-management, relationships, and self-awareness. Not only do camps boost social and emotional learning through developing concrete skills, being at camp can change children’s attitudes and beliefs about themselves and others. Social and emotional learning is definitely alive and well at summer camp! It’s a set of skills that are quite portable and which come in handy at home and at school. Article provided by the American Camp Association.

(4wks) and Gilbert & Sullivan Scenes (2 wks) led by Conservatory faculty and guest artists. Admission by audition. sfcm.edu/summer

Performing Arts Camps ALAMEDA COUNTY EAST BAY DANCE CENTER SUMMER DAY DANCE CAMP (OAKLAND) Age or Grade Range: 4-16 Give your child the best summer ever! Let them come dance with us. Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Tumbling, African Dance, Drama, Art, and lots of fun! Flexible scheduling: 1 day-all 9 weeks of summer. 9:30am-3:30pm. Before & After Care available. Multi-week/ sibling discounts. We’ve been creating

more confident kids for 28 years! http://www.eastbaydancecenter.org/ camps.htm

GO GIRLS! CAMP/PRODUCTIONS 2018 (OAKLAND) Age or Grade Range: Rising 1st - 4th and Rising 5th-6th graders Go Girls! Camp - Rising 1st-4th-grade girls learn social and emotional skills through the arts. Girls practice theater, expressive arts, music and perform their very own play that promotes prosocial values. Go Girls! Productions - Rising 5th & 6th grade produce, edit, direct, and star in their own short films. Girls learn to think critically about the media they consume while creating original girl-powered media. http:// go.spotlightgirls.com/register-for-gogirls-camp-oakland/berkeley

Age or Grade Range: Grades 1 - 12 Robin Hood’s Summer Solstice Celebration. June 17 - 22, 2018 The Music Discovery Workshop & Youth Collegium is an exciting multi-arts program for youth sponsored by the San Francisco Early Music Society. Music Discovery Workshop is for children in grades 1-6. Youth Collegium is for students in grades 7-12. All classes taught by world-class faculty, a dedicated team of experienced music teachers and sought-after professional players in ensembles such as Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra, American Bach Soloists, SF Symphony and SF Ballet Orchestra. http://sfems. org/?page_id=11128

THINGAMAKIDS! SUMMER CAMP (OAKLAND) Age or Grade Range: Ages 4-6 JOIN THINGAMAJIGS’ TEAM OF ARTISTS IN A FUN AND ENGAGING ARTS AND MUSIC CAMP DESIGNED TO EXPAND THE YOUNG, CREATIVE MIND. Through interactive workshops that incorporate music, movement, visual art and science, Thingamakids! campers gain a unique and well-rounded experience in creativity, collaboration, and experimentation. 9am to 2pm $450/ week www.thingamajigs.org/upcoming/ summercamp

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY MUSICAL THEATER: DISNEY’S PETER PAN JR (MARTINEZ) Age or Grade Range: 5-12 Our three week Musical Theater Camp allows campers the opportunity to create, play, and perform over the course of three weeks! Choose between Mornings 9-12 or Afternoons 1-4pm! Both are filled with games, rehearsals, set construction, costume fittings, and the magic of theater. All participants appear onstage as part of the ensemble cast of PETER PAN JR! poisonappleproductions.org

MARIN COUNTY SHAKESPEARE’S STORIES (SAN RAFAEL) Age or Grade Range: ages 5-7 Very young children will learn the stories and characters of Shakespeare’s plays through story-telling, creative dramatics and theatre games. Oneweek sessions Monday through Friday from 9 am to noon. July 9 – 13, Shakespeare’s Crowns: 514 Fourth Street, San Rafael – Session A July 16 – 20, Shakespeare’s Clowns: 514 Fourth Street, San Rafael – Session B July 23 – 27, Shakespeare’s Cutthroats: 514 Fourth Street, San Rafael – Session C Sign up for one session or all three! Tuition: $210 per session www. marinshakespeare.org

SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA SHAKESPEARE CAMP Age or Grade Range: Ages 7-13 (Players) and Ages 12-18 (Upstart Crows and Advanced Shakespeare Workshop) In our Shakespeare Players Camp and

Upstart Crows Camp, campers will find their voices and become confident selfstarters while mastering Shakespeare’s language and interpreting his plays. We have convenient camp locations throughout San Francisco and Alameda, Berkeley, Brisbane, Burlingame, Cupertino, Fremont, Los Altos Hills, Palo Alto, Pleasanton, and San Mateo. http://www.sfshakes.org/

PLAYWRITING! (SAN FRANCISCO) Age or Grade Range: Ages 9-12 Explore the world of Playwriting! Theater games will inspire campers to come up with their own fun characters. Writing exercises will provide campers with the basic of story structure. We will introduce the concepts of character objectives, obstacles, metaphor, and conflict resolution. Each camper will develop his/her ideas into a twocharacter, ten-minute play. The week will culminate in readings of all the plays by special guest actors on the Creativity Theater stage. www. creativity.org

THEATER PLAYWRITING CAMP (SAN FRANCISCO) Age or Grade Range: Ages 9-12 July 9-13, 2018 | 9:00am - 4:00pm | Ages 9-12 | Aftercare available Explore the world of Playwriting! Theater games will inspire campers to come up with their own fun characters. Writing exercises will provide campers with the basics of story structure. We will introduce the concepts of character objectives, obstacles, metaphor, and conflict resolution. Each camper will develop his/her ideas into their own two-character, ten-minute play. The week will culminate in readings of all the plays by special guest actors on the Creativity Theater stage! $375 (members), $400 (non-members)/ week | Aftercare - $100 from 4:00-5:00pm www.creativity.org

Preschool Age Camps ALAMEDA COUNTY ONE GENERATION CAMP (BERKELEY) Age or Grade Range: 4-6 A community centered, cultural music and dance camp for children ages 4-6. Outdoors in beautiful Tilden park we dance, we sing, and we play music incorporating Brazilian Capoeira, West African music and dance along with community building, games and outdoor exploration. We combine structure and freedom with a focus on community and kindness. One Generation is a place for children to learn, connect, play and explore. www. onegenerationcamp.org

SAN FRANCISCO DINOSAURS (SAN FRANCISCO) Age or Grade Range: Ages 3-5 Stoke your child’s curiosity and imagination this summer with Dinosaurs! Through fun stories, songs and activities, kids will learn more about the prehistoric reptiles that once ruled the earth! HALF DAY (9:00am to 1:00pm): $260 (members), $275 (nonmembers)/ week FULL DAY (9:00am to 3:00pm): $360 (members), $375 (nonmembers)/ week www.creativity.org

Science Camps ALAMEDA COUNTY CHABOT SPACE & SCIENCE CAMPS (OAKLAND) Age or Grade Range: Grades 1-6 Students grades 1 through 6 will enjoy Chabot Space & Science Centerâ€™s 2018 summer camps, featuring four

different week-long science and engineering adventures, starting on June 25 through July 30 and held at the Center and its 13-acre grounds, adjacent Redwood Park. Camp themes are: Mars Adventure, Operation Moon Base, Camp Create or Eco-Animation. Each day will be full of fun, exciting science activities, hands-on and team learning, engineering challenges and outdoor exploration led by science educators. Each one-week camp session is $550 and before and after-care are available. http://www.chabotspace.org/summercamp.htm

The Academy’s Science Summer Camp features integrated, handson, experiential themes based on science professions with real world applications. Camps will cover a variety of topics including biology, chemistry, coding, engineering, and mathematics through fun, interactive labs. Camps are one-week, full-day programs with a separate topic for morning and afternoon lab. Spaces are limited to 10 campers per camp so sign up soon! http://theacademyschool.org/summerprogram/

GIRLS IN ENGINEERING (BERKELEY)

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY

Age or Grade Range: Grades 6-8 Join us at UC Berkeley this summer for a week of hands-on engineering activities. With Berkeley staff and students as your teachers, you will learn firsthand about the exciting world of engineering! Applications are due March 1. http://girlsinengineering. berkeley.edu/

SCIENCE CAMP AT THE ACADEMY (BERKELEY) Age or Grade Range: Grades Pre-K-8th

INTRO TO STEM, SUMMER 18 (WALNUT CREEK) Age or Grade Range: Ages 9-12 Give your imagination a boost with tens of thousands of LEGOÂ® parts! Build engineer-designed projects such as: Cities, Garbage Trucks, Catamarans, and Dinosaurs. Design and build as never before, and explore your craziest ideas in a supportive environment. There are no prerequisites for this course. http:// play-well.org

JEDI ENGINEERING WITH LEGO MATERIALS (SAN RAMON ) Age or Grade Range: Ages: 5-6 The Force Awakens in this introductory engineering course for young Jedi! Explore engineering principles by designing and building projects using LEGO® materials such as X-Wings, R2 Units, Defense Turrets, and Settlements from a galaxy far, far away. Create motorized and architectural projects with imagination and engineering to defeat the Empire! Play-Well.org

PLAY-WELL TEKNOLOGIES (WALNUT CREEK) Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-12

CAMPS

THIS SUMMER, LEARN FRENCH AND HAVE FUN !

LE CAMP D'ÉTÉ ECOLE BILINGUE DE BERKELEY

A day long camp for children in Preschool to Grade 5 who want to enjoy a French vacation at the heart of Berkeley! Early bird rate until April 1st at $430 a week. Dates are July 23 - August 17

More information at lecampdete.com (510) 848-SING eastbaymusictogether.com

March 2018 | Parents’ Press 17

Build and program robots in this introductory Robotics class using the LEGO® WeDo® system. Learn basic programming skills, simple engineering concepts, and the names of robot components. Work in small groups to complete several projects using tilt and motion sensors. This is a great way to prepare young Robotics enthusiasts for our more advanced Robotics programs www.play-well.org

SAN MATEO COUNTY MARINE SCIENCE CAMP (REDWOOD CITY) Age or Grade Range: Entering grades K-12 Marine Science Camp participants experience marine life in a fun, safe and exciting atmosphere during week-long explorations of the San Francisco Bay and Pacific coast. Discover local marine habitats and animals at our facility and through field trips across the Bay Area, including a day-long trip aboard our research vessel. https://www.sfbaymsi. org/

Sleepaway Camps

South Lake Tahoe! Your child will enjoy all the fun-filled traditions of CAMP – Canoeing, Crawdad Fishing, Archery, Hiking, Volleyball, Swimming, Lake Tahoe Beach Fun, Dances, Skits, Campfires, and Horseback Riding combined with a one-day escape to a ropes course where we will Zip Line, Tree Climb, and challenge ourselves! friendsofcampconcord.org

BAR 717 RANCH / CAMP TRINITY (HAYFORK) Age or Grade Range: 8-16 Founded in 1930, the Bar 717 Ranch offers children ages 8-16 the opportunity to spend the summer on a beautiful mountain ranch. Campers choose freely from activities including horsemanship, backpacking, gardening, animal care, river swimming, arts/ crafts, photography, music, archery, blacksmithing, ceramics and more! www.bar717.com

MOUNTAIN MEADOW RANCH SUMMER CAMP (NORTH OF LAKE TAHOE & RENO IN THE SIERRAS OF CALIFORNIA)

Age or Grade Range: Ages 8-14 Camp Ravencliff offers a great experience for both new and returning campers. Using age-appropriate activities and challenges, our trained, caring staff encourages campers to make new friends, experience new things and learn new skills that that will make a positive difference in campers’ lives for years to come. http:// www.ymcaeastbay.org/Locations/ YMCA-Camp-Ravencliff.htm

Age or Grade Range: Ages 7 to 16 Unique, co-ed traditional summer camp in the true, classical sense, where campers bond like family in a close knit environment through the many activities we provide. Located on a 900 acre ranch in the California Sierras, not far from the Reno-Tahoe airport. Our program allows for a more personalized camp experience for each camper; staff to camper ratio is 1 to 4. 62 Summers family owned and operated, ACA and WAIC accredited. Staff-escorted flights offered to & from Oakland Airport to Reno. http://www.mountainmeadow. com

CAMP CONCORD YOUTH CAMP (SOUTH LAKE TAHOE)

YMCA CAMP LOMA MAR (LOMA MAR)

Age or Grade Range: 9-13 Exclusive Youth Week of Camp at

Age or Grade Range: Ages 7-15 YMCA Camp Loma Mar impacts

YMCA CAMP RAVENCLIFF (REDWAY)

hundreds of lives every year by helping youth and teens develop independence and an appreciation of the outdoors! Surrounded by giant redwoods, campers make friendships and memories that last a lifetime. We offer fun-filled summer and family camp experiences. http://www.ymcaeastbay.org/Locations/ YMCA-Camp-Loma-Mar.htm

CAMP HIGH FIVE (PALO ALTO) Age or Grade Range: 7-14 Run for Funs mission is to provide engaging play for all youth by getting kids active in an inclusive community centered around fun! Camp High Five is a 5 night / 6 day adventure among giant redwood trees and beautiful mountains. Each day at camp is filled with laughter and fun. Whether campers are challenging themselves learning archery, going horseback riding, swimming, boating, playing capture the flag or roasting marshmallows, camp is sure to be a blast. https://www. runforfuncamps.com/summer-campsand-school-holiday-camps/camp-highfive/

Sports Camps

the Flag, Basketball, Bowling, Bocce, Obstacle courses, Jump rope, much more. Foosball, Air Hockey, Chess, Connect Four, Hot Hoops, other board and table games. Swimming is free option Tuesday, Thursday. Play structure. Weekly and Daily. www. elcerritosportscamp.com

FLAG FOOTBALL CAMP (SAN PABLO) Age or Grade Range: Grades Entering 1st-6th Kids will have fun learning skills of Flag Football. Camp will be divided into teams where our coaches will work with beginner to advanced players and also participate in scrimmages against each other, and much more! SanPabloRec.com

OUTDOOR CAMP (SAN PABLO) Age or Grade Range: Grades Entering 1st-6th This exciting camp will provide an opportunity to make new friends while experiencing innovative and engaging outdoor activities, allowing them to develop their social, creative and athletic abilities. SanPabloRec.com

SHOOTING CAMP (WALNUT CREEK)

BASKETBALL CAMP (SAN PABLO) Age or Grade Range: Grades Entering 1st-6th This camp will focus on the fundamentals of playing basketball. Campers will practice ball handling, passing and shooting. They will also learn the rules of basketball and what it means to be a team player SanPabloRec. com

CITY OF EL CERRITO SPORTS CAMP (EL CERRITO) Age or Grade Range: Ages 4.5 - 12 Sports and Games Camp, Soccer Camp, Baseball Camp. Morning, Afternoon or All Day options. Variety of activities include Frisbee, Dodgeball, Capture

Age or Grade Range: 5th-12th Grades Breakthrough Basketball conducts quality, high-intensity, drill based camps that focus on not only bettering a players skill set on the court but also building character and confidence off the court. These camps will strengthen your athletes mentality while boosting their confidence to become more aggressive and skilled players. Our camps will provide a focused, fun learning environment that cannot be rivaled. https://www. breakthroughbasketball.com/camps/ california.html

CAMPS

Summer Institute

An Innovative Summer Program for Motivated Students & Athletes Ages 8-14

JUNE 11 THROUGH JULY 20

DETAILS & REGISTRATION AT

shcp.edu / summer 1 0 5 5 E L L I S S T R E E T, S A N F R A N C I S CO, C A 9 4 1 0 9

18 Parents’ Press | March 2018

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415.775.6626

•

S H C P. E D U

SOCCER CAMP (SAN PABLO) Age or Grade Range: Grades Entering 1st-6th Our Soccer camp is designed for players of all levels who want to learn and improve their fundamental soccer skills in a fun and encouraging environment. Kids will learn the fundamentals of soccer which include passing, receiving, shooting and ball control. SanPabloRec. com

VOLLEY BALL CAMP (SAN PABLO ) Age or Grade Range: Grades Entering 1st-3rd This camp is designed to teach campers to the basic skills of volleyball. Campers will learn All aspects of the game are taught through drills and exercises that focus on bumping, setting, spiking, hitting and serving. SanPabloRec.com

CAMP POGBA (SAUSALITO) Age or Grade Range: 5 - 7 Years Camp Pogba is a combination of outdoor soccer fun and activities for children ages 5 to 7. A typical camp day includes warm-ups and stretching, skill building and skill development activities, scrimmages and small sided games, and the big game where the kids get to play both each other, and then challenge their coaches! Besides soccer activities, camp will include a provided lunch, nap/relaxation time, and 2 hours of soccer related arts, crafts and entertainment. Camp Pogba is a great way for your child to develop soccer skills, social development and teamwork before fall soccer begins http://www.lelycee.org/page. cfm?p=1631

CAREN HORSTMEYER GIRLS BASKETBALL CAMP (LARKSPUR) Age or Grade Range: 7-14 Girls ages 8-14, beginning to advanced.

Skill work, games and competitions. June 18-22. www.horstmeyerhoops.com

MARTIAL ARTS & SPORTS CAMP (ALAMEDA) Age or Grade Range: Post K to 5th grade June 11-15, 2018 9:00-3:00 daily. For kids post-kindergarten to 5th grade. Participants will practice martial arts skills in the mornings with Champion Erik Lee and sports & games in the afternoon with popular Franklin Elementary P.E. instructor, Anna Rabel. In between classes we will get out into nature and throw rocks into the magnificent San Francisco Bay. Our goal is simple: we want to have fun together doing the stuff we love during our summer break. http:// alamedamartialarts.com/

MT TAM BIKES CAMP (MILL VALLEY) Age or Grade Range: 8-14 Mt Tam Bikes Camp is a year-round mountain biking day camp for novice to advanced participants ages 8-14. Located in Mill Valley, California, our non-competitive program is designed to meet each rider at their ability. We teach mountain biking, taking our fun as seriously as our safety. Mt Tam Bikes Camp is about connecting kids with nature, building confidence, gaining knowledge and making new friends. www.mttambikescamp.com

TOTALLY TENNIS SUMMER CAMP (SAN RAFAEL) Age or Grade Range: Ages 4-17 Totally Tennis Summer Camp is just that. All about tennis. Learn the game and develop sound, effective strokes: a sport for life! http://www. rafaelracquetclub.com/

CAL BEACH VOLLEYBALL CAMPS (BERKELEY ) Age or Grade Range: Ages 12-18

Join Head Coach Schmitt and Coach Olson on the Clark Kerr Sand Courts on Cal’s beautiful campus this summer. Our beach volleyball camps at Cal are designed to help players of all levels take their game to the next level. Beach volleyball is a fast growing sport and this camp provides athletes with the opportunity to explore what beach volleyball is all about. https://www. ussportscamps.com/volleyball/nike/ nike-cal-beach-volleyball-camps/

GIRLS SOCCER & LEADERSHIP CAMP (SAN FRANCISCO) Age or Grade Range: Ages 8-16 Girls Leading Girls is a 501c3 nonprofit that trains girls ages 8-16 in leadership and life skills through soccer! We have 3 camps in SF in 2018: June 11, July 30, and August 13th. Learn soccer skills and leadership training with all women coaches and mentors. Contact us at info@girlsleadinggirls.org or www. girlsleadinggirls.org https://www. girlsleadinggirls.org/news/2017/12/13/ summer-camps-2018

JR. SAILING PROGRAM (SAN FRANCISCO) Age or Grade Range: 6-18 yrs old TISC sailing Summer Camp: June 11 to August 24, 2018. Campers will be assigned to groups based on age and skill. No prior experience required. Schedule: Monday – Friday, 9 am - 4 pm. Pre-care as of 8:30 am; after-care until 5 pm. Full and partial scholarships available. https://www.tisailing.org/ youth/

ADVENTURE CAMP (PALO ALTO) Age or Grade Range: 5-12 Run for Funs mission is to provide engaging play for all youth by getting kids active in an inclusive community centered around fun! Camp highlights include: Horseback riding Archery Swimming Climbing tower Great

America Kayaking Sports Crafts Capture the Flag Dodgeball Basketball Soccer Campfire w/ S’mores https:// www.runforfuncamps.com/summercamps-and-school-holiday-camps/ adventure-camp/

PASA-CARDINAL SWIM CLUB (PALO ALTO/STANFORD) Age or Grade Range: 1-12 PASA - Cardinal Swim Club offers a fun and engaging summer program for all ages and ability levels! Group lessons, private lessons, and the Cardinal recreational summer swim team give swimmers a solid foundation with the technique and skills to pursue their swimming interests - for competition or fitness and with a life-long love of the water. Groups focus on age and level appropriate stroke technique to develop the four competitive strokes, proper starts, and turns. Our competitive program is tiered into 6 groups based on age and skill level. Our youngest groups consist of 8-10-year-olds and the National group is comprised of high school-aged athletes competing at the national level. https://www.teamunify.com/Home. jsp?_tabid_=0&team=pcscras

UC SANTA CRUZ NIKE VOLLEYBALL CAMP (SANTA CRUZ ) Age or Grade Range: Ages 10-18 This year we are offering Overnight and Extended Day camps for boys and girls of all ability levels. Campers can choose between All Skills (ages 10-18) and Advanced (ages 14-18) programs. Call us at 1-800-645-3226 or go online at https://www.ussportscamps.com/ volleyball/nike/uc-santa-cruz-nikevolleyball-camp for more information. https://www.ussportscamps.com/ volleyball/nike/uc-santa-cruz-nikevolleyball-camp

CAMPS Our day camps offer exciting daily field trips to the Bay Area’s best museums, science centers, activities, and attractions. urban attractions COOKING ROUND THE WORLD SUMMER CAMP Where cooking + learning about the world + making friends = a recipe for fun! 510.593.5285 www.cookingroundtheworld.com

March 2018 | Parents’ Press 19

CAMPS

Lakefront Summer Camp • Ages 4-16 Free Transportation • Free Extended Care 36 Bay Area Location Bus Stops

Frame Your Family’s Summer Camp Search & Find Your Camp

T •

celebrating •

46 Y E A RS

Join us for a camp tour! roughingit.com/visit 925.283.3795

here’s a camp out there for everyone—figuring out which suit a child’s current needs and interests is an adventure in itself (not as fun as going to camp, but fun nonetheless!). Finding camp is not nearly as fun as going to camp, but here are five steps that are sure to yield the kind of search results families need and hope for: • Bay Area camps offer an incredible array of options. Day. Overnight. Trip and travel. Independent. Nonprofit. Religiously-affiliated. One week. Eight weeks. Coed. Girls’ only. Boys’ only. General. Traditional. Specialty (and everything in between). Hundreds of camps are nestled among the lakes, forests, beaches, and mountains. • Visit a Camp Fair—or Open House! This can be an efficient way to explore camp options—in a large room where anywhere from 30-90 camp exhibitors are set up to share information and advice at a fair OR with a chance to tour around camp and to meet some of the staff at an Open House. Wherever you are in your camp search, both types of in-person exploration can be informative. Meeting camp people can influence your search in a big way.

• Talk with camp representatives on the telephone. If a camp fair or open house is not in your future this

! TE 2018 Vote Now

year, you can fill in the gaps from your website research with information you get over the phone. Camp people are sitting by their phones in the late winter and early spring just to answer questions from prospective campers and families! Really! You can speak with them! Camp is all about connecting with people; expect to connect with camp people when you’re exploring your options. When you get close to a final decision, ask for names of parents of new campers from last summer and call them too. • Talk to people about camps! Do check references and collect as much informal information about camps as possible. And do ask your neighbors, friends, and parents of your children’s friends about camp, too. Pediatricians and teachers might have some great camp insight for you as well! • Like many searches, you can start your camp search online. But, end that search with people. Camps are people-centered communities. People who work at the camp and people who have attended and who belong to the camp’s community are going to be able to help most as you explore the fit between what you hope to find (your camp wish list) and what each particular camp experience offers. Article provided by the American Camp Association.

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Technology and Digital Arts Camps CAMP REEL STORIES (OAKLAND) Age or Grade Range: 7-12th Camp Reel Stories is the only media program led by professionals in the film industry. We teach Middle School and High School girls how to make films. Utilizing accessible technologies, each camper is encouraged to actively participate in every stage of the filmmaking process. The films created are then screened at our official film festival. www.campreelstories.com

GAMES ARE AWESOME (BERKELEY) Age or Grade Range: Ages 8-10 We’ll be using cool drag n’ drop languages like Scratch or Snap to create some awesome new and classic games! Aimed at our newbie and novice coders.

20 Parents’ Press | March 2018

CAMPS

The Dance Center and Berkeley City Ballet Seven Reasons

berkeleycityballet.org

Summer Camp Experiences are Essential

ummer camp is fun. There’s no doubt about that. Singing silly songs, playing funny games, swimming in lakes and telling stories around the campfire; this is the image of camp that has been captured and memorialized in films, books, and television programs. But there’s much more to camp than just a good time. For the last century and a half, experiential education in summer camp settings has complemented the education provided by schools and families. Camp experiences play an integral role in children’s overall development –cognitive, physical, and social-emotional. Here are seven reasons your child shouldn’t miss out on the unique growth experience that day and overnight camp experiences can provide.

Reduced summer learning loss. Studies have shown that during summer vacation, students can lose the equivalent of up to three months of what they’ve learned during the school year. Camp programming keeps a child’s brain active, alert, and acquiring knowledge and skills.

2 3

Increased physical activity. From soccer and tag to canoeing and hiking to walking to the dining hall for meals, an on-going workout is a natural part of the camp day. Direct experiences in nature. Being outside is proven to reduce stress levels, improve mood, and simultaneously stimulate all of a child’s senses. Day after day in the outdoors teaches children about many of the sciences (Earth, biological, and environmental to name just a few.)

Greater self-reliance, self-sufficiency, and self-confidence. In addition to learning how to take responsibility for themselves, their space, and their belongings, campers often discover strengths that they never knew existed through various activities and experiences. Being at camp is independence boosting.

Positive risk-taking. Camp provides a safe, wholesome, judgment-free environment for your child to step out of their own comfort zone to take physical and emotional risks that they never would have tried during the school year.

A strong sense of community. Group living and team experiences teach children how to work together for a common goal and to find their place and voice within a group. Camp communities create a powerful sense of belonging for their campers.

Memories that will last a lifetime and experiences and skills children can build on for summers to come. When the summer ends, camp memories live on in children’s hearts and minds. They take home skills and experiences that will come in handy back at school. Expect them to be enthusiastic about advancing those skills and acquiring new ones at camp next summer! Article provided by the American Camp Association.

Camps include a daily hour of outdoor team-building activities (Mon-Thu) led by Xfit Training. https://www. thecoderschool.com

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VOTE For The Best of VOTE Today! go to www.parentspress.com

photo : andy mogg

Ages 2 and up Free boys ballet Jazz Dance camps Birthday parties 4 state-of-the-art studios Sprung floors Easy parking Easy online registration and payment March 2018 | Parents’ Press 21

Family Fun Calendar 1 | Thursday Free First Thursday at the Berkeley Art Museum — Berkeley Through art and film programs, collections, and research resources, the University aspires to be locally connected and globally relevant, engaging audiences from the campus, community, and beyond. 10am–7pm, Free. 2155 Center St, Berkeley, (510) 642-0808, bampfa.org

2 | Friday $5 First Friday at Chabot — Oakland Each $5 First Friday at Chabot is an exciting and immersive experience for all ages. Join them each month for hands-on activities and live demonstrations that are fun for the whole family. 6-10pm. $5 per person. Chabot Space and Science Center, 10000 Skyline Blvd. Oakland, 510-336-7373, www. chabotspace.org

Asian Cultural Center First Fridays: Art, Performance & Games — Oakland Come out for a night of fun and creativity as the Oakland Asian Cultural Center hosts First Fridays, an evening of art, performance, workshops and games every first Friday of the month. 6-8pm. Free. All Ages Oakland Asian Cultural Center 5388 9th St. Oakland , oacc.cc

Temescal Alley First Friday Block Party — Oakland Every first Friday of the month join the block party with live music, shops open late, monthly art exhibits and more. 6-9pm. Free. All ages. Temescal Alley, 49th St. at Telegraph and Clarke, Oakland. www.temescalalleys.com

3 | Saturday 38th Annual Black Cuisine Festival — San Francisco This fun-for-all-ages event, sponsored by Bayview Senior Services, will feature live music, vendor booths, a kids’ zone, and a variety of food venues.

Some of the delicious offerings include fried chicken, catfish, oxtails, ribs, links, black-eyed peas, red beans and rice, greens, yams, mac and cheese, cornbread, sweet potato pie, peach cobbler, and pound cake. There will also be a soul food cooking contest with cash prizes for the winners. 11am-6pm, free. 1753 Carroll Ave., San Francisco, bhpmss.org

The Legendary White Elephant Sale — Oakland Celebrating 59 years of exceptional success, the White Elephant Sale, Northern California’s biggest and best rummage sale, returns to Oakland today and tomorrow. Sale proceeds benefit the Oakland Museum of California, with last year’s sale raising an unprecedented $1.88 million. Shoppers are advised to arrive early and wear comfortable shoes. A complimentary shuttle service from the Fruitvale BART to the WES warehouse will be provided. 10am-4pm, Saturday and Sunday. Free admission, prices as marked. All ages. 333 Lancaster St., Oakland. 510-5366800, www. whiteelephantsale.org

Playland Dr. Suess Weekend — El Cerrito A big hip, hip hooray for dear Dr. Seuss, whose birthday is this weekend so let’s all cut loose! Help find his characters hidden here, hidden there, and prizes will go to kids everywhere! Enjoy Seuss-y fun at Playland-Not-atthe-Beach all weekend long, as well as pinball and carnival games. $15 per adult and $10 per child and senior. Open 10:00am-5:00pm. Repeats Sunday. Playland Not at The Beach, 10979 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 510592- 3002, www.playland-not-at-thebeach.org

4 | Sunday Alameda Point Antique Faire — Alameda The Alameda Point Antiques Faire is the largest antiques show in Northern California. Held on the 1st Sunday of every month, the Faire boasts over 800 Dealer booths. All items are 20 years old or older. Our faire is the ultimate place to shop for vintage and antique home decorations, clothing, furniture, jewelry, art, pottery, books & collectibles.

PRESCHOOLS If you could give your child one gift to last a lifetime, what would it be?

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22 Parents’ Press | March 2018 Fax # 510-373-2241

kim.smith@bacbc.org

• Preparation for Kindergarten • Nurturing Academic Environment • Ballet, Hip Hop Dance, Gymnastics, Violin, Piano, and Soccer

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Call to Schedule a Tour: 510-526-7847 1711 Carlson Blvd Richmond Annex 94804

Marine Science Sunday — Sausalito Hosted by our expert education team, these multimedia classes focus on a new-topic each month, ranging from Creatures of the Deep to Endangered Species, you’ll learn fascinating facts about marine mammals and their watery world. 12 & 2pm. Free. The Marine Mammal Center 2000 Bunker Road Fort Cronkhite Sausalito 415 289-7325, www.marinemammalcenter.org

Free First Sunday at OMCA — Oakland Visit the Galleries of California Art, History, and Natural Sciences. Pick up a treat for yourself or a loved one in the OMCA Store. 11am-6pm., $5 suggested donation. All ages Oakland Museum of California, 1000 Oak St, Oakland 510-318-8400. www.museumca.org

“An Irish Tale” Puppet Show — Oakland An original tale from Ireland about the care and handling of leprechauns. Three brothers want to marry Meg, but which can outsmart Wily Liam the leprechaun? Puppets and script by Randal Metz. Repeats Saturdays and Sundays through 4/1. 11am, 2 & 4pm, $10/general admission. All ages. Children’s Fairyland, 699 Bellevue Ave. Oakland. 510-238-6876, www.fairyland.org

5 | Monday

BEST of

Bear Gymnastics —Berkeley Campers receive the equivalent of one full gymnastics class, dance, art and other fun activities. Cub Camp is a great place for your children to have a fun time and for you to have some free time! 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. $70 per child, free for children enrolled in classes. Ages 4-12. Golden Bear Rec Center, 25 Sport Ln., Berkeley 510-642-5813, www. recsports.berkeley.edu

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6 | Tuesday Free First Tuesday at the Palace of the Legion of Honor — San Francisco The Palace of the Legion of Honor offers free admission to all visitors today. 9:30 a.m.–5:15 p.m., free. Palace of the Legion of Honor, 100 34th Ave., San Francisco, 415-750-3600, legionofhonor.famsf.org

6-7:30 am $15.00, 7:30- 9am $10.00, 9am to 3pm $5.00. All ages. 2900 Navy Way (at Main Street) Alameda, CA. alamedapointantiquesfaire.com

! E T

First Round Voting in March Final Round Voting in April Results Revealed in July Issue

Free First Tuesday at the De Young Museum — San Francisco

2018

The De Young Museum offers free admission to all visitors today. 9:30 a.m.–5:15 p.m., free. De Young Museum, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, San Francisco, 415-750-3600, deyoung.famsf.org

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7 | Wednesday Free First Wednesday at Bay Area Discovery Museum — Sausalito

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PRESCHOOLS Enrolling now: a NEW Montessori school in Berkeley Ages 2.5-6 • Immediate start • Year-round

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18 moS. tHrough 6th grade multi-age classroOms educational exCellence since 1978 S i g n u p o n l i n e f o r a t o ur t o d ay ! Part/full/extended day available • Limited financial aid available 2008 McGee Ave • Berkeley • 510.679.5056 • www.littleelephant.net

www.grandlakemontessori.com 466 Chetwood, Oakland (510) 836-4313

We provide a Year Round Program Infant and toddler care for ages 12-24 months Preschool for ages 2-5 years Part-day program: 8:45 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Extended Part-day program: 8:45 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Full-day program: 7:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m.

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Helping your child excel in a warm and nurturing environment

Email to Schedule a Tour

Close to Rockridge Bart 5633 Manila ave – Oakland 94618 Lic. 01213520,013417669 & 013417787

March 2018 | Parents’ Press 23

Enjoy free admission and all the fun activities and displays at the Bay Area Discovery Museum today. 9am–4pm, free. Bay Area Discovery Museum, 577 McReynolds Road, Sausalito. 415-339-3900, www. Baykidsmuseum.org

Dance With Me — Berkeley Shawl-Anderson Dance Center’s Dance with Me class is for walkers through age 4 and their caretakers. Join us with teacher April Taylor on Wednesday mornings. Children and adults will dance, sing, play movement games and enjoy props for this fun filled 45 minute class. This class repeats every Wednesday and Thursday. 10-10:45 a.m. $16 per child. ShawlAnderson Dance Center, 2704 Alcatraz Ave., Berkeley. www.shawl-anderson. org

8 | Thursday Sleeping Beauty — Walnut Creek The true story of the princess who fell asleep comes to life before your eyes as the audience tries to save Sleeping Beauty from the spinning wheel. Where is her true Prince to awaken her with her kiss? Running Time: approx. 50 minutes, with no intermission 9:30, 11 am & 6:30 p.m. Through Saturday, 3/10. All Seats $14. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Walnut Creek. Call for tickets 925- 943SHOW (7469), www.lesherartscenter. org

9 | Friday Friday Nights @ Oakland Museum of California — Oakland OMCA and Off the Grid on 10th Street present food trucks, live music and DJs, free dance lessons and extended hours for museum galleries, the OMCA Store and Blue Oak café. 5-9pm. Members and ages 18 and under free, $7.50/adults. 10th Street entrance, 50 10th Street, Oakland. (510) 318-8400. www.museumca.org

Friday Nights at the De Young — San Francisco This fun, after-hours art event includes a variety of activities organized to coordinate with current exhibitions. The evening may feature live music, dance, and theater performances, film screenings, panel discussions, lectures, artist demonstrations, hands-on art activities, and exhibition tours. The DeYoung café offers a special menu and the observation tower is open until 8 p.m. 5 p.m.–8:45 p.m., free (museum admission of $10 adults, $6 youth 13–17 applies if you want to go into the museum). De Young Museum, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, San Francisco, 415-750-3600, deyoung. famsf.org

10 | Saturday Go to Playland-Not-at-theBeach Swift-ly this Weekend This weekend Playland is celebrating the art of the Tom Swifty. This liter-

March 17 — 167th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival — San Francisco ary concept became popular in the early 1960’s and continues through today. We will have a sticker treasure hunt that should a-peal to all. Only $15 per adult and $10 per child and senior. Open 10:00am-5:00pm. Repeats Sunday. Playland Not at The Beach, 10979 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 510-592- 3002, www.playland-not-at-the-beach.org

Lawn to Garden Party— Berkeley Join StopWaste at the Lawrence Hall of Science for a fun volunteer event. You will learn about creating droughttolerant & water-wise gardens as you help convert the Hall’s C-Level lawn

to save water & improve the use of our outdoor space. 9:30am-1pm, Free. All ages. Lawrence Hall of Science, 1 Centennial Dr., Berkeley. 510-642-5132 www. stopwaste.org/berkeleylawnparty

Free Children’s Crafts — Walnut Creek Lakeshore Learning offers a free craft activity every Saturday! 11am & 3pm. Free. Ages 3 and up. Lakeshore Learning Center, 1929 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Walnut Creek. 925-9441495, www.lakeshorelearning.com

Second Saturday Music and Art Walk — Oakland The Golden Gate Neighborhood of

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Yoga

CHATHAM SCHOOL

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North Oakland is hosting a monthly Second Saturdays event with art, music, food, classes and family-friendly activities. They’re focusing on the DIY character of the neighborhood, so come out and see what you can add to the mix. All day. Free. All ages. San Pablo Ave@ Alcatraz in north Oakland.

Second Saturdays — Oakland Featuring up to 100 artisan vendors, children’s activities, live entertainment, and great food from local vendors and favorite eateries. 11am-5pm. Free. All ages. Jack London Square, 70 Washington St., Oakland. 510-645-9292, www.jacklondonsquare. com

11 | Sunday Spring Forward! Daylight Savings Time Starts Marine Science Sunday — Sausalito Join us on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of each month for Marine Science Sunday - a FREE engaging ocean-inspired classroom series from our education experts. These interactive classroom programs are great for all ages! 10am - 5 pm Free. The Marine Mammal Center 2000 Bunker Road Fort Cronkhite Sausalito. 415 289- 7325

San Francisco International Chocolate Salon— San Francisco Chocolate aficionados, fanatics, lovers and addicts can taste & experience the finest in artisan, gourmet & premium chocolate in one of the world’s great culinary metropolitan areas. 10am-5:30pm, $20 advance tickets, $30 at the door, kids ages 6 to 12, $10, children younger than 6 free. Prices include all tasting and events. San Francisco County Fair Building Hall of Flowers Golden Gate Park 1199 9th Ave at Lincoln Way, San Francisco, www. sfchocolatesalon.com

13 | Tuesday Percussion Discussion—

Walnut Creek “Whack!” Percussionist Ken Bergmann is back with his smashing spectacle of drums, cowbells, chairs and more in Percussion Discussion. Incorporating instruments from around the globe, the popular family-oriented show features a hysterical romp through the sound effects of Hollywood, a unique look at the computer age, all the flash one would expect from a drummer gone amok and for no apparent reason, a cymbal clanging monkey. Running Time: approx. 50 minutes, with no intermission. 9:30, 11:15 am & 1pm, Through 3/14. All Seats $14. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Walnut Creek. Call for tickets 925- 943-SHOW (7469), www.lesherartscenter.org

Persian New Year Festival — Berkeley In Iran (and parts of Afghanistan and India), it is customary for people to create bonfires in front of their homes throughout the neighborhood and jump over them as the sun is setting. Since the Persian Center owns its own “home” at 2029 Durant Ave., it will host this event for Iranian-Americans and all who have an interest in the culture. As people jump over the flames they shout, “Shorkhi-e to az man o zardi-e man az to!” which means, “Give me your beautiful red color and take back my sickly pallor!” Parents jump with their young ones who look wary of going near the flames. By engaging the non- Persian community in the fire-jumping festival, the organization hopes to allow a glimpse into beautiful Persian traditions and the culture of the Iranian-American community in the US. 6-10pm. Rain or shine. Free. All ages, family friendly. Persian Center, 2029 Durant Ave, Berkeley.510-848-0264.

Playland After Dark presents Grown-up Game Night (Adults Only)

March 13— Percussion Discussion— Walnut Creek

PRESCHOOLS Montessori Children’s Center An Authentic Montessori preschool and Kindergarten, serving children ages 2 - 6

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Playland After Dark presents a different kind of game night—where bored gamers get to be board gamers, card sharks can swim ashore and pinball fans will delight all night. There will be games aplenty on hand, or feel free to bring any of your favorites. Anyone for Pictionary in the Midway Party Room? How about Clue in the Carousel Carnival? We’ll have the Museum of Fun set up for all kinds of gameplaying options, the only piece missing is you. Adults only (18-years and older), no children or babies please. Only $10 per person. Open 6:00pm-10:00pm. Playland Not at The Beach, 10979 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 510-592- 3002, www.playland-not-at-the-beach.org

14 | Wednesday Pi Day at the Exploratorium — San Francisco The Exploratorium celebrates the 29th annual Pi Day with free admission and special events all day. To honor the never-ending number 3.14159... (and Einstein’s birthday), the Exploratorium will feature π-themed activities, rituals, antics, and plenty of pie. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., free. Exploratorium, Pier 15, San Francisco, www. exploratorium.edu

15 | Thursday The Saklan School Annual Spring Concert — Walnut Creek The Saklan School presents their Annual Spring Concert. 4:30 - 6 p.m. Free Admission. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Walnut Creek. Call for tickets 925- 943SHOW (7469), www.lescherartscenter. org

Third Thursday Piedmont Stroll —Piedmont Bring the family and enjoy supporting local artists, independent businesses, all within the Piedmont Avenue community. Evening entertainment can be found in restaurants, salons, retail stores, and many other shops. Featuring art, music, and more! 6-9 p.m. Free admission. All ages. Piedmont Avenue, Piedmont. piedmontavenue.org

16 | Friday Zoovie Night— Oakland Pillows, blankets and jammies encouraged as families get cozy in the Zimmer Auditorium. Hot cocoa and popcorn are provided but bringing a picnic basket is encouraged as well. 6:30-9:30pm. $7/person. All ages. Oakland Zoo, 9777 Golf Links Rd., Oakland. 510-632-9525, www. oaklandzoo.org

Friday Nights @ Oakland Museum of California — Oakland OMCA and Off the Grid on 10th Street present food trucks, live music and DJs, free dance lessons and extended hours for museum galleries, the OMCA Store and Blue Oak café. 5-9pm. Members and ages 18 and under free, $7.50/adults. 10th Street entrance, 50 10th Street, Oakland.(510) 318-8400. www.museumca.org

17 | Saturday St. Patrick’s Day 167th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival — San

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March 2018 | Parents’ Press 25

Francisco

El Cerrito

The annual St. Patrick’s Day parade is a well-established event with historic ties to San Francisco. The festival, which takes place at City Hall, is a fun opportunity to learn more about Irish history and culture. The festival and parade will include live performances and entertainment, arts and crafts exhibitors, food and beverage concessions, children’s rides and inflatables, and non-profits booths representing the Irish community. Festival 10 a.m.–5 p.m., parade begins at 11:30 a.m.at the corner of Second and Market Streets. Festival takes place in front of City Hall at Civic Center Plaza, San Francisco, www.uissf.org

Round up all the Martians and leprechauns! Just in time for St. Patrick’s Day, the flying saucers are landing, and the Little Green Men are popping up everywhere. Track them down, keep them together and you’ll win Playland prizes. This event runs Saturday and Sunday. 10am-5pm. $10/children and seniors,$15/general admission. All ages, recommended 3 and up. Playland Not at The Beach, 10979 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 510-592-3002, www. playland-not-at-the-beach.org

Magical Mini Moss Gardens Family Day — Berkeley In honor of St. Paddy’s day, join our moss and lichen hunt, learn a little botany, and make a “magical” mini moss garden to take home. Join us for this free hands-on family day for children and adults of all ages. 10 am, $15. UC Berkeley Botanical Garden, 200 Centennial Way, Berkeley. 510- 642-7082, www.botanicalgarden. berkeley.edu

Little Green Men Weekend—

St. Patrick’s Day Festival and Parade — Dublin Enjoy Celtic music and Irish dancing. Eat authentic Irish food such as mushy peas, pasties and bangers and mash. View and purchase unique Celtic artwork, tartan wool, and handmade goods for sale. Have fun on carnival rides and enjoy tea at an Irish tea house. The festival runs all weekend long! 10am-5pm, Free admission. All Ages. Dublin Civic Center 100 Civic Plaza, Dublin. www.dublinca.gov

Flying Leprechaun: St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at the Hiller

March 25 — Marine Science Sunday — Sausalito

Aviation Museum — San Carlos This special aerial celebration in honor of St. Patrick features free face painting, a jump house, a leprechaun hunt, and treats. At 11 a.m. the Museum’s own Leprechaun leaps from a helicopter high overhead and descends to San Carlos Airport via parachute. 10am–noon, $15 adults, $10 children. The Hiller Aviation Museum, 601 Skyway Road, San Carlos, www.hiller. org

18 | Sunday Octopretzel — Berkeley The band creates engaging music, inspiring curiosity, wonder, and appreciation for the world we live in. Their skilled musicianship and magical way with children guarantees a dance-able, sing-able and fun experience for the whole family. 10:30am. Admission $12. Freight & Salvage. 2020 Addison St Berkeley.

PRESCHOOLS Dynamic Education The Optimizing Each Child’s Potential Child Now Enrolling Day Schools, LLC Spring / Summer 2018 Family operated since 1976

• Language & Literacy • Math & Science • Problem Solving • Art & Creativity • Social Skills

Preschool is 9 am until 1 pm - (extended hours available)

CPC is currently accepting applications for Fall, 2018

www.t cdschools.com Preschool • Pre-K • Jr.-K • Toddlers • Kindergarten • School Age

Lic# 073406638 073406639

SAN RAMON 925-820-2515

Hands-on learning in a small, group environment 12–14 children ages 3 – 5 years The Creative Play Center’s program provides a rich, nurturing environment in which creative play and learning takes place.

2017 Low Ratios Highly Trained Teachers

ANTIOCH 925-754-0144

Preschool

PLEASANTON 925-462-1866

LAFAYETTE 925-284-7092

MORAGA 925-376-5110

Lic# 013420524 013420525

Lic# 073406632 073406633

Lic# 073406850 073406849

Lic# 073406846 073406845, 0734066634

(510) 524-9399

www.CreativePlayCenterAlbany.com 1151 Portland Ave., Albany, CA 94706

Lic. #010204748

Oakland Montessori School

Nestled in the hills next to a local park where parents and kids often gather to play after school, we offer PLAY-BASED LEARNING for children 2.9 – 5 years old in a warm and engaging environment. We follow a joyful 40 year tradition of gently nurturing children for the road ahead. We’ve created a warm, WELCOMING ENVIRONMENT that helps build social skills and foster curiosity. LIC. #010209453

Serving children 24 months to 6 years

Join our diverse community of confident children, supportive parents and experienced teachers. ART • MUSIC • GYMNASTICS • YOGA

Now accepting applications for the 2018-19 school year Call for more information and to schedule a visit

510-482-3111

26 Parents’ Press | March 2018

Call us today:

www.oaklandmontessori.com

•

3636 Dimond Ave

Lic #010214163

WWW.BERKELEYHILLS.ORG * 510-849-1216

Tours on Wednesdays at 9:30am Please RSVP at info@oaklandmontessori.com

www.freightandsalvage.org

21 | Wednesday Toddler Time, Ardenwood — Fremont Bring the tots out for an exciting morning at the farm. Hear a story, do some chores, and meet some farm friends. Little ones will enjoy a variety of activities at their own pace. We’ll meet rain or shine! (1-4 yrs) 10:30-11:45 a.m. Ardenwood Historic Farm, 34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont, (510) 544-2797 www.ebparks. org

23 | Friday

programs are great for all ages! 10am - 5 pm Free. The Marine Mammal Center 2000 Bunker Road Fort Cronkhite Sausalito 415 289- 7325

26 | Monday Bear Gymnastics —Berkeley Campers receive the equivalent of one full gymnastics class, dance, art and other fun activities. Cub Camp is a great place for your children to have a fun time and for you to have some free time! 9 a.m.-3 p.m. $70 per child, free for children enrolled in classes. Ages 4-12. Golden Bear Rec Center, 25 Sport Ln., Berkeley 510-642-5813, www.recsports.berkeley.edu

March 18 — Octopretzel performs at Freight & Salvage — Berkeley

Parents’ Night Out — Berkeley Drop off your kids, 2-7 yrs, for play and fun while parents enjoy a movie or dinner out. $42 per child, $32 for siblings. Pizza for dinner included. Space limited. 5:30–9:30 p.m. To reserve email habitotreservations@lmi.net or call our Reservations Desk at 510-647-1111 x14. Habitot Children’s Museum, 20615 Kitteridge St., Berkeley. 510-647-1111, www.habitot.org

SCHOOLS

24 | Saturday “An Irish Tale” Puppet Show — Oakland An original tale from Ireland about the care and handling of leprechauns. Three brothers want to marry Meg, but which can outsmart Wily Liam the leprechaun? Puppets and script by Randal Metz. Repeats Saturdays and Sundays through 4/1. 11am, 2 & 4pm, $10/general admission. All ages. Children’s Fairyland, 699 Bellevue Ave. Oakland. 510-238-6876, www.fairyland.org

Tale Old as Time Weekend at Playland-Not-at-the-Beach This weekend we are celebrating all the beauties and beasts of the tales we all grew up with. If you would like to try our Fairy tale treasure hunt please be our guest. Find all the characters to win Playland prizes. Only $15 per adult and $10 per child and senior. Open 10:00am-5:00pm. Playland Not at The Beach, 10979 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 510-592-3002, www.playlandnot-at-the-beach.org

25 | Sunday What We Hold: 100 Teen Voices Opening Celebration — San Francisco Join us for the opening of What We Hold: 100 Teen Voices, an exhibition showcasing youth reflections on memories, moments, and legacies from generations past and how it manifests into actions and perspectives today. 3-5 pm FREE to youth 18 and under. Contemporary Jewish Museum 736 Mission Street San Francisco. 415-6557800; www.thecjm.org

Marine Science Sunday — Sausalito

Join us on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of each month for Marine Science Sunday - a FREE engaging ocean-inspired classroom series from our education experts. These interactive classroom

The

Journey Begins Here The Renaissance International School French-Spanish Immersion • Visual Art • Music Challenging Academics • Engaging Environment Ages 2 ~ Middle School OPEN HOUSE DATE

Childcare Provided All Levels (ages 2 - Middle School)

Saturday, March 31 Campus 9:30am-11:30am

starts at Oakland

TOUR DATES Parents Only

Primary/Pre-Primary March 7, 15 & 28 Oakland Campus 9:30am-11:30am

lic# 010214382 www.TheRenaissanceSchool.org Oakland Campus: 3650 Dimond Ave. / Piedmont Campus: 5201 Park Blvd.

March 2018 | Parents’ Press 27

29 | Thursday Playland After Dark presents Grown-up Game Night — El Cerrito

Art: Fifth Grade Self-Portraits

Now Accepting Applications Limited Space Available for 2017-2018 For more information or to schedule a tour, visit us at www.berkwood.org

Play like kids without having to be with them. Grown-up Game Night: Classic carnival and arcade games, FREE PLAY pinball machines, unique exhibitions and nostalgic collections – plus your favorite board games and other funminded adults. Adults only (18-years and older), no children or babies please. Only $10 per person. Open 6:00pm10:00pm. 21 and older can bring beer & wine. 6 p.m.-10 p.m. $10/per person Adults only. Playland Not at The Beach, 10979 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 510592-3002, www.playland-not-at-thebeach.org

30 | Friday Friday Nights at the De Young — San Francisco This fun, after-hours art event includes a variety of activities organized to coordinate with current exhibitions. The evening may feature live music, dance, and theater performances, film screenings, panel discussions, lectures, artist demonstrations, hands-on art activities, and exhibition tours. The DeYoung café offers a special menu and the observation tower is open until 8 p.m. 5 p.m.–8:45 p.m., free (museum admission of $10 adults, $6 youth 13–17 applies if you want to go into the museum). De Young Museum, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, San Francisco, 415-7503600, deyoung.famsf.org

the games and amusements here and not with pranks and trickery. Humor yourself with the pinball machines and history of amusements! Repeats Sunday. Open 10:00am-5:00pm. Playland Not at The Beach, 10979 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 510-592-3002, www.playlandnot-at-the-beach.org

It Must Be Pinocchio— Walnut Creek The fast-paced action, high energy songs, and cutup comedy please children while the generous portion of knowing humor is aimed point-blank at adults. That recipe makes IT MUST BE PINOCCHIO a wonderful-funderful entertainment for the ENTIRE family...with no strings attached! Running Time: approx 1 hour, with no intermission. 2pm. All Seats $14. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Walnut Creek. Call for tickets 925- 943-SHOW (7469), www.lesherartscenter.org

Feast for the Beasts — Oakland Main Entrance doors open early at 9:00am and the first 250 guests will receive a golden ticket to spread produce in the elephant exhibit. Once all the food is in place, everyone exits the exhibit to watch the hungry herd chow down on their treats. You won’t want to miss this one of a kind experience that the Oakland Zoo is offering. 9am-3pm. Free with Admission. All ages. Oakland Zoo, 9777 Golf Links Rd., Oakland. 510-632-9525, www.oaklandzoo.org

31 | Saturday Learn more about our school of thought at

blackpinecircle.org

A “Humor Us” Weekend at Playland-Not-at-the-Beach Enjoy April Fool’s Day weekend with Playland this year. Please celebrate with

O r i n da a c a d e m y

ParenTS, STUdenTS & TeacHerS WOrKinG TOGeTHer

College Prep for Grades 8-12 Open House for Prospective Families May 2nd from 6-8pm

– Inspired, Gifted and Talented –

MESA

The International School For All Montessori Elementary School of Alameda

925-254-7553

19 Altarinda Rd., Orinda, CA 94563 • www.OrindaAcademy.org

Structure - Support - Success Inspiring Success, Fulfilling Potential

grand lake Montessori eleMentary Sig n up o a to ur tondline fo r ay !

Discover our international form of education, where you can find math, engineering and the sciences interwoven into a curriculum that focuses on the arts.

• Physical Education • Small Class Size • Mixed Age Groups • Ukelele • Community Involvement

Lic#013420948

www.MontessoriElementaryAlameda.org 1400 6th St., Alameda

510.521.0595

28 Parents’ Press | March 2018

montessorielementaryalameda@gmail.com

1st through 6th grades multi-age classroom 466 Chetwood, oakland, Ca (510) 836-4313

www.grandlakemontessori.Com

By Haley Reen

Kid’s Culture Give Back and Get Outside!

pring is coming and it’s a great time to get into some outdoor activities. We suggest volunteering! Getting kids to spend time outside while giving back to the communities around us is a great way to build character, and looks great on those future college applications. Kids of every age can volunteer, whether it’s planting seeds and pulling weeds or picking up trash on the shores of the bay. Trees need planting, pets need walking, dirt needs digging! Here are just a few resources to get inspired by!

SAVE THE BAY—BAY AREA

URBAN RELEAF—OAKLAND

Milo Foundation has several Northern California shelters. Their Point Richmond location is always in need of volunteers to take the adoptable dogs to the nearby parks to run and play and socialize. Check out the website or call them directly: 510-900-2275, www.milofoundation.org.

Sign up for their newsletter online and keep abreast of community events and days of service that involve planting trees and other care and maintenance of natural spaces in Oakland. They have many ways to get involved and several events a year. Check them out at www. urbanreleaf.org.

GARDENS AT LAKE MERRITT—OAKLAND

Lake Merritt has several garden spaces and several weekends a month of volunteer opportunities to clean and maintain the gardens for everyone to enjoy. Go to the website and look under the Volunteer Opportunities tab to learn where and when each garden volunteer day takes place: www.gardensatlakemerritt.org.

This organization focuses on caring for the shoreline areas of the Bay Area, removing garbage that ends up in the ocean, and making public spaces clean, safe, and well maintained. Communities as far as Palo Alto can participate in events and group work days. Go to their website and have a look at their volunteer event calendar for one close by: www.savesfbay.org.

MILO FOUNDATION—POINT RICHMOND

PICK UP TRASH— ANYWHERE

Next time there is a family walk, trip to the park, or hike, pack trash bags and rubber gloves to help pick up garbage that ends up in the bellies of local wildlife or in the streams and rivers. Not only is this beneficial to the environment and community, once kids have spent hours picking up trash in a park, they will think twice before they litter, and will be the ones reminding other people not to litter!

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SPCA—OAKLAND AND DUBLIN

East Bay SPCA has several locations and many volunteer opportunities; however, they also offer a Youth (teen) Volunteer Club that meets regularly to educate young people about volunteering and why it is needed, followed by handson work with the shelter animals. These should be considered more like a class or camp—there are fees. Have a look at the website or call to ask about their Humane Education Programs: 510-5642961, www.eastbayspca.org.

BLAKE GARDEN— KENSINGTON

Blake Garden is a little secret gem in the Berkeley Hills. It’s only open on weekdays, and is closed on holidays, but they still need help with weeds, keeping paths clear, and other outdoorsy stuff. This is an opportunity best suited to older kids and teens who are able bodied enough to use a shovel and push wheelbarrows! The volunteer information can be found at blakegarden.ced.berkeley. edu/volunteers.

GOLDEN GATE PARK— SAN FRANCISCO

The epic Golden Gate Park and other San Francisco parks are always in need of volunteers who don’t mind getting dirty. Volunteers can look at the parks and recreation website under the volunteers tab, where there is a calendar of work parties and other volunteer events. Large groups of people, such as an entire class of seniors or a large scout troop, can also reserve time at one of the local parks to create a workday with the help of parks and recreation staff. Website details are here: www.sfrecpark. org.

ANYTHING, ANYWHERE

If none of these options will do, here are two websites for searching and matching volunteers with opportunities to help out, indoor and outdoor! Handsonbayarea.com volunteermatch.com Haley Reen is an East Bay-based freelance writer.

CLASSIFIEDS ➤ CLASSES/LESSONS MUSIC

➤ SERVICES

Best Violin lessons Professional concert violinist. Experienced and enthusiastic. All levels. North Berkeley studio. Call Donna at (510) 524-5203. $10 introductory lesson.

Have Room In Your Heart? And your home for one more child? Grow your family by Fostering/Adopting a waiting child. All ages. No fees. A Better Way. 510-601-0203 x305. www.abetterwayinc. net

Piano and Flute lessons Highly professional, experienced teacher. All ages welcome. Libushe Moskowitz, (510) 235-5860 in El Cerrito.

Impeccable Interiors House Cleaning Cleaning homes & offices in Contra Costa & Alameda Counties for over 20 years. One-time, weekly/bi-weekly, monthly. Licensed & insured. Visa/MC. (510)5219600, 925-736-9600. www.impeccableinteriors.com

Piano Lessons in Berkeley Patient, experienced teacher. I have successfully prepared students of all ages, beginners to intermediateadvanced. Alexandra Yurkovsky, MA (510) 849-2613 $10 introductory lesson.

➤ TUTORING / EDUCATION

➤ FAMILY TRANSPORTATION GOING TO THE AIRPORT AND NEED A CAR SEAT? We provide the right car seat for the safety of your child. Taxi rates. 415-305-0819. americanalimo@ yahoo.com

➤ PARTIES FUR, SCALES AND TAILS ANIMAL SHOWS For your party, school, camp or daycare. Over 15 different animals in every show. Fun for children of all ages. Call Tracy the Animal Show Guy at: 510-823-3923. www.furscalesandtails.com Please check out our great Yelp reviews. The Puppet Company Creates “Fantasies in Miniature” at your child’s party. Classics, Fables, fun for audiences of all ages! Professional puppeteer, 40 years of entertainment experience. 510-569-3144. www.puppetcompany.com All-Star Showgrams Rated four stars in “Babies by the Bay.” Princesses, superheroes, pirates, train conductors, cowboys, Elsa, Mary Poppins, Mother Goose, Dorothy, clowns, wizards, magicians, face painters, balloonists, storytellers, dance parties, mascots, jugglers, Santa, Easter Bunny and lots more! Your child’s favorite character. 650-5743568. www.allstarshowgrams.com

It’s All About Literacy Skilled, compassionate, effective, individualized reading and writing instruction, grades 1-10. Early intervention, remediation, skill building, or creative enrichment. Build self-esteem and success! Ivy (510) 528-8773. www.ivysandz.com Tutoring Is Caring Individualized help with mathematics, reading, writing, study skills, confidence, and motivation. All ages welcome. Rediscover the joy of learning. Call Esther, 510-733-0467.

➤ EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Work From Home Part-Time Wisdom of the Whole Coaching Academy looking for creative, reliable independent contractor with passion for administration. 20 hours / week. $20-23/hr DOE. Help at Alameda office 1x/week. Email resume info@ wisdomofthewhole.com

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WHEN YOU ACCELERATE A STUDENT’S LEARNING

THE EXTRAORDINARY HAPPENS At Stratford, students accomplish extraordinary things. It all starts with an advanced yet balanced curriculum that propels students to excel both inside and outside the classroom — typically performing well-above grade level and matriculating to top high schools and beyond. Discover a school that inspires children to become creative problem-solvers, imaginative innovators, and confident leaders.

Now Enrolling Preschool – 8th Grade* JOIN US FOR AN

Open House Saturday, March 24 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

We deliver the extraordinary. Register for our open house at StratfordSchools.com/NorCalOH

Summer

30 Parents’ Press | March 2018

Accrediting Commission for Schools

SCH

*Grades offered vary by location. Preschool State License Numbers: 073402482, 013417816, 013420588, 434404890, 434408056, 434407977, 434404336, 434406722, 434408877, 384001837, 434410807, 434410816, 073406680, 013420939, 414004014, 434413440. Copyright © 2018 Stratford Schools, Inc.

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