INSIDE egional East Bay R ict’s is D Park tr ture Na Regional in uide Activity G
2 Parents’ Press | May / June 2018
May / June 2018 | Parents’ Press 3
May / June 20187
Contents
Last Minute Guide to Bay Area Camps
www.parentspress.com DEPARTMENTS 3
Kids’ Culture
Mother’s Day Brunch
4 Bookshelf
Exploring Birds
5
Family Cents
Kids and Credit Cards
16 Singleminded BFFS
16 Raising Dad
6
Texting Miracles
17 On the Go
Boating With Kids
18 Family Fun Calendar 27 Getaways
Mendocino with Kids
Little River Inn, Mendocino
27 Publishers
Robert and Tracy McKean
Art Director Debbi Murzyn
Account Managers
Carol Flores, Sophie Archer
Contributors
Aaron Crowe, Tony Hicks, Erika Mailman, Haley Reen, Mary Ann Scheuer, Susan Solomon Yem
Advertising Sales & General Info sales@parentspress.com
Mailing Address
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
BEST of
PARENTS’ PRESS Results Coming July 2018! Contact Us Today to Advertise 2018
in the July Best Of Issue
www.parentspress.com 4 Parents’ Press | May / June 2018
By Haley Reen
Kids’ Culture Moms Want Brunch!
M
other’s Day is imminent, and while moms will treasure whatever handmade card or trinket the kids make, what she probably really wants is a sumptuous meal that she didn’t have to cook and won’t need to do the dishes afterward. Mother’s Day Brunch is the way to go. Fancy breakfast foods plus mimosas equal happy moms. However, brunch can be a stuffy affair at some places. Lots of upscale places are available, but the price tag and the environment are not ideal for parents of picky toddlers who will waste a lot of the fancy breakfast, get bored and start making a scene. So instead, why not pick an upscale yet casual place that has food that kids and parents will eat, as well as an environment more conducive to families. Reservations are always suggested; Mother’s Day is one of the busiest days of the year in the restaurant industry. So pick one of these and get those macaroni necklaces and construction paper greeting cards ready, it’s time to celebrate Mom.
BREZO- POINT RICHMOND
The owners of Brezo have small kids of their own and they know how it is. This new eatery serves up Californian Latin flavors and brunch classics. They’re in a beautiful historic building that they have lovingly updated to include a kid’s nook right next to the indoor and outdoor dining areas. It’s stocked with games, toys and puzzles for little hands, and some comfy places to sit and enjoy them while waiting for food to arrive. The back patio is a beautiful place to enjoy a late morning meal while kids play a few feet away. Brezo is located at 135 Park Pl., Pt. Richmond. 510-680-5196, brezorestaurant.com
LOS MOLES- EL CERRITO & EMERYVILLE
Los Moles is new to El Cerrito, but there are other locations around the Bay Area. Their brunch buffet serves up many unique and authentic moles, handmade on-site tortillas and micheladas, for the mom who can’t choose between a margarita and a beer. This place has been getting a lot of attention lately and for good reason. Los Moles losmoles.com 6120 Potrero Ave El Cerrito 510-230-4855 1320 65th St Emeryville 510-285-6635
RIGOLO CAFE- SAN FRANCISCO
Rigolo Cafe loves kids. They serve up classic provincial French cuisine but have a kids menu loaded with favorites from French toast to mac and cheese. There is even a kids’ play area! If brunch can’t happen, fear not. Kids under twelve eat free on Monday nights. Rigolo Cafe, 3465 California St., San Francisco. 415-876-7777, rigolocafe.com
BAREFOOT CAFE- FAIRFAX
This is a cute little neighborhood joint with sustainable and organic fare that includes Mickey Mouse pancakes. The cuisine is “New American,” elevated breakfast classics and more, basically what one would expect in Marin County. Kids are welcome here and encouraged. Barefoot Cafe, 1900 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., Fairfax. 415-460-2160, barefootcafe. com
GAUMENKITZEL- BERKELEY This place also boasts a play area and a fantastic kids menu. It’s German food, but one can expect typical brunch items like pancakes and eggs. Nearly everything here is made from scratch inhouse, including the ketchup. Gaumenkitzel, 2121 San Pablo Ave., Berkeley. 510-647-6015 Gaumenkitzel.net
BACHEESOS- OAKLAND, BERKELEY
Bacheesos is an East Bay staple. The food is consistent and delicious. It’s a chill buffet, with lots of great Mediterranean flavors. Kids can stuff themselves with all the hummus and bread they can eat. There are also lovely fruit and vegetable sides to go with the rich chicken thighs and savory dishes. The vibe is always relaxed here, but bring some books or coloring books just in case it’s a little too chill for some kids. The Oakland location is also conveniently across the street from Children’s Fairyland. Bacheesos Bacheesos.net
DIGGER’S DINERBRENTWOOD, CONCORD & HAYWARD
Digger’s Diner has been around forever and it’s a local favorite. The fare is classic American diner, greasy spoon stuff, and they do have brunch. Kids are always welcome here and there are options they will enjoy. Digger’s Diner www.diggersdiners.com 2261 Balfour Rd Brentwood 925-240-8958 1895 Farm Bureau Rd Concord 925-825-8958 217 W Winton Hayward 510-470-3664
246 Grand Ave., Oakland 510-491-1896 2650 Telegraph Ave., Berkeley 510-548-1500
Real Patients, Real Smiles 3
They’ve got a great dentist.
9e�e-leg;"North
Berkeley and Orinda
Call us at (510) 848-6494
cosmetic and general dentistry teeth whitening with Zoom! aesthetic restoration character teeth for stage and film dental implants
Thank you Parent's Press, Lamorinda Moms and Bay Area Parent for voting us
BEST PEDIATRIC DENTIST!
Single Visit Crowns
BEST
LAMORINDA
2Q,15
Thank you Alameda for voting us the best dentist! BEST OF MAGAZINE
km1tl,1r·(.i..Jm· :!rr1�
richard Tabor, dds 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2012
• • • • •
CoAvenient locations
510.865.2900 • www.AlamedaDentist.com 1821 Santa Clara Avenue • Alameda
. Please go to our website for more information
w w w .aloha kid sd d s.co m
May / June 2018 | Parents’ Press 5
Did You Know? By Mary Ann Scheuer
Bookshelf Y
Memorial Day Memories
ou might not know that while Memorial Day has held its name since 1882, prior to that it was still celebrated but called Decoration Day. The name came from the practice of decorating graves with flags, flowers and wreaths. Memorial Day became its official name by federal law in 1967.
Back in the Day D
id you know that once upon a time, before Mother’s Day as we know it existed, there was something called Mothering Sunday? It was celebrated in the United Kingdom and some areas in Europe. Mothering Sunday fell on the fourth Sunday during Lent and referred to church-goers returning to their mother church. Wonder if parishioners brought their church homemade cards, too?
Exploring Birds All Around Us
W
he National Audubon Society, National Geographic and over a hundred organizations have declared 2018 the Year of the Bird. Get outside and explore birds all around us! These picture books will help build your children’s knowledge all about our fine feathered friends.
“Beauty and the Beak: How Science, Technology and a 3D-Printed Beak Rescued a Bald Eagle” By Deborah Lee Rose and Jane Veltkamp (Persnickety; ages 8-10; $16.95; 40 pp.). Our students have been fascinated by local author Deborah Lee Rose’s inspiring account of a bald eagle whose beak was restored after she was illegally shot. Raptor biologist Veltkamp created a prosthetic upper beak using a 3D printer, enabling the eagle to eat and drink by herself. Very unfortunate, but ultimately uplifting.
“National Geographic Kids Bird Guide of North America, 2nd edition”
N
Clean House
ow here’s a wacky holiday parents can get behind – Clean Up Your Room Day. The orderly occasion falls on May 10 and is the perfect opportunity to enlist kids in picking up after themselves to make those rooms spotless (or at least a couple of notches above pigsty). After all, you never know when the Clean Up Your Room Day Fairy might bump into Santa while he’s making his naughty or nice list.
W
Sun Smarts
oo-hoo – warm weather is here! More outside time, more playing, more fun! Just make sure you and your family are slathered in sunscreen. Remember, even on cool or hazy days, SPF is a must. The sun can affect your skin no matter the weather, so be sun safe. If you are going to the beach search up sunscreens that protect our oceans while still protecting you and your brood.
6 Parents’ Press | May / June 2018
By Jonathan Alderfer (National Geographic Kids; ages 6-10; $16.99; 208 pp.). This updated edition provides a great guide to identifying more than 150 birds, organized in chapters by habitat. Vital stats, habitat range and identifying markers help kids get to know these birds. A great introduction to the much more extensive National Geographic Field Guide to the Birds of North America.
“Birdsongs” By Betsy Franco (Margaret K. McElderry / Simon and Schuster; ages 3-7; $19.99; 40 pp.). Does the “tat, tat, tat” of the woodpecker draw you outside? Can you hear the quiet “coo coo coo” of the mourning doves cooing to one another? Local author Betsy Franco turns these birdsongs into a delightful count-it-down picture book.
“Every Day Birds” By Amy Ludwig Vanderwater, illustrated by Dylan Metrano (Scholastic; ages 2-5; $17.99; 32 pp.). Very short simple verses and cut-paper collage illustrations introduce young readers to common North American birds. Perfect for budding naturalists.
“Everything You Need to Know about Birds” By DK (DK; ages 6-10; $15.99; 79 pp.). This collaboration between Smithsonian and DK is filled with high-interest facts and photographs. The colorful layout is packed with photos, maps and diagrams, and the text provides lots of information.
“Feathers: Not Just for Flying” By Melissa Stewart, illustrated by Sarah S. Brannen (Charlesbridge; ages 5-9; $7.95; 32 pp.). Did you know
that feathers can help provide sun protection? Or help carry water back to nestlings? This remarkable book helps young readers think more deeply about the tremendous variety of birds’ feathers, their uses, shapes and design. Perfect for developing inquiring minds.
I especially love the way she uses two levels of text: short, clear sentences in the larger, main text are accompanied by more detailed information in the sidebar, making this a great choice for families to read aloud. Excellent for spurring conversations and questions.
“Fire Birds: Valuing Natural Wildfires and Burned Forests”
“Sweep Up the Sun”
By Sneed B. Collard III (Bucking Horse Books; ages 8-11; $17.00; 48 pp.). Collard presents a very interesting look at the impact of natural forest fires on wildlife, especially birds. He looks at the benefits of wildfires and explores ecosystems that thrive in their wake. Excellent introduction to the work of scientists and their impact on policy.
“Just Like Us! Birds” By Bridget Heos (HMH; ages 4-8; $14.99; 32 pp.). Did you know that birds can sing up to one hundred notes in two seconds? The world’s fastest rapper only sings twenty-eight words in the same time! Heos creates high interest by comparing birds to people, looking at all sorts of different behaviors from singing to housekeeping to raising babies.
“Look Up! Bird-Watching in Your Own Back Yard” By Annette LeBlanc Cate (Candlewick; ages 7-14; $15.99; 64 pp.). This funny, information-packed book combines watercolor cartoons and an astounding amount of information. Authorillustrator Cate confesses that while she isn’t an expert bird-watcher, she really loves birds. She encourages readers to sharpen their awareness of natural surroundings, identifying birds by their color, shape, behaviors, habitat and range. Amusing and rich with scientific information.
“A Place for Birds” By Melissa Stewart (Peachtree; ages 6-9; $7.93; 32 pp.). Stewart asks readers to consider how humans’ actions have impacted birds and their environment.
By Helen Frost & Rick Lieder (Candlewick; ages 5-9; $6.99; 32 pp.). Frost’s poem encourages young readers to watch birds in flight playing in the sky, learning to fly and trusting the sky to hold them aloft. Her poem is paired with Lieder’s amazing photography capturing birds in midflight, freezing a moment in time. Truly gorgeous.
“Woodpecker Wham!” By April Pulley Sayre, illustrated by Steve Jenkins (Henry Holt / Macmillan; ages 4-8; $17.99; 40 pp.). Sayre’s dynamic verse brings alive the sound and movement of six different woodpecker species as they chop, bonk, tap and slam, doing serious work. “Wedge it. Sledge it. / Wham by wham. / Clear those chips. / SLAM, SLAM, SLAM!” A fantastic, upbeat celebration of science, poetry, art and language. 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.
By Aaron Crowe
Family Cents Your Kid Should Have a Credit Card Before They Can Drive
T
he parental refrain “Do what I say and not what I do” isn’t a wise one in many respects, but especially when it comes to financial talks with your kids. Parents lead by example, and if you’re racking up credit card debt you can’t afford, then you may be teaching them bad money habits. Such oxymoronic advice can be confusing. The 2017 Parents, Kids & Money survey conducted by T. Rowe Price found that 48% of respondents have a credit card balance of $5,000 or more. Those parents are more likely than those who don’t to have kids who: • Spend money as soon as they get it—58% vs. 44%. • Expect parents to buy them whatever they want—65% vs. 57%. • Say parents confuse them when talking about money—67% vs. 51%. • Say what parents say about money is different from what they hear in school—65% vs. 53%.
CREDIT BEFORE CAR
How to get around all of that? Get your child a credit card, of course. It’s not as implausible as it sounds. By working to lower debt and having continuing, honest discussions with their
children about how to best use credit, parents can help their children start on the path to having good credit and being smart with money years before they have a driver’s license. The first difficult hurdle to get over is a reluctance to discuss financial matters with your kids. The T. Rowe Price survey found that 69% of parents have some reluctance to discussing money with their kids. Parents who have more than $5,000 in credit card debt are more likely than those who don’t to be reluctant, 35% to 21%, the survey found. A piggy bank isn’t the only way kids deal with money. While most have a savings account (55%), 31% have an online or gaming account, 20% have a checking account and 18% have a credit card, according to the survey. Who pays the credit card bill? Fifty-seven percent said they do as parents, and 41% said their kid pays the credit card bill.
HOW TO START GIVING A KID A CREDIT CARD
There are a few ways to get your children started as credit card users. One is to add them as an authorized user on your credit card. This will put their name on a credit card that they can use but for which you’ll still responsible for paying as the primary cardholder. Their debt becomes your debt, and any penalties for late payments will hurt the parents’ credit score. To get your child their own credit card, parents will likely be asked to cosign because their children don’t have full-time jobs. This will also leave the parents liable for the bill. If that seems like too big of a step for both of you, then get them a prepaid debit card that they fund and use like a credit card. It can only be used up to the amount
20 Chalk Artists kid’s chalk zone Prize Wheel
put on the card, so no debt is incurred. The BusyKid Visa prepaid spend card lets kids spend their allowance in stores. The card has a $5 annual fee and is issued in the parent’s name, but it also has the child’s name on it. Parents can add money to the debit card by charging with their credit card.
WHAT TO TEACH KIDS ABOUT CREDIT
There are many ways to teach kids about money beyond setting a good example. Long before you give them a debit or credit card, you can show them what the inside of a bank looks like, take them shopping with a budget in mind, discuss the cost of college, figure out how much tip to leave at a restaurant or how much sales tax will be charged, and discuss why you can’t take a bigger vacation this summer. Their teenage years are probably the best time to learn about credit. Before that, they should get a good foundation in money education by earning an allowance, having the freedom to spend their own money, and borrow money from you a few times to see how loans work. Long before the credit card issuers send your kids applications in the mail to apply for new credit, here are some things to teach your children about credit cards: 1. This isn’t your money - A credit card can buy you all sorts of things without having cash in your hand, but it isn’t your money. A credit card lets the user borrow money as long as it’s repaid. The longer it takes to repay that money, the more interest they’ll be charged. 2. Purchases are limited - Credit cards have a credit limit. It’s a maximum amount that can be borrowed on the card, and charging more than that will cause the transaction to be denied.
Having a low credit card balance will lead to a better credit history. The balance should be 30% or less of the credit limit, so a $1,000 credit limit shouldn’t have more than about $300 charged to the card. 3. Pay on time and in full - Missing a credit card bill payment will hurt a credit score and mean paying interest and a late charge. If a credit card balance is unpaid for too long, creditors may sue to collect. 4. Only spend what you can repay - Teaching kids to be responsible is one of the big tasks of parenting. With a credit card, it’s important to get them to think ahead about how they’re going to pay the credit card bill about a month after they’ve bought something with it. They’ll need to learn to think ahead to the immediate future and know that you won’t be bailing them out with a loan to pay their bill. 5. How a credit card will help or hurt their future credit use - Just like school, teens are being graded in how they use their credit card. They’re not being graded in what they buy, of course, but in on-time payments, how much credit they use and other things that affect a credit score. Learn what goes into a credit score and go over it with your children. A high credit score helps people qualify for better interest rates and loans in the future, such as a car loan or paying a lower security deposit when renting an apartment. Credit mistakes made now could make it more difficult years later to get a job, get a good loan or rent an apartment. Aaron Crowe is a freelance journalist who specializes in personal finance topics. Follow him on Twitter @AaronCrowe or at his website, AaronCrowe.net. He also writes about his family’s finances at CashSmarter. com.
19
saturday May 12PM to 3PM
pacificcommons.com shoppacificcommons
May / June 2018 | Parents’ Press 7
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.
THIS LAND IS YOUR LAND A Summer Day Camp of Outdoor Science
™
For children ages 4 to 14
Our camp guide is one-stop shopping for the best programs the Bay Area offers.
I
Connecting kids to nature . . . and making science fun Weekly Sessions: June 11 - August 24 Oakland Berkeley
t’s May, and many parents are afraid they’ve missed the “window” of signing their children up for summer camp. That’s just not true, and many camps keep enrolling campers up through June. Sending your child off to summer camp may not be a tough decision, but finding the right camp — or camps — can be daunting. Here within our pages, our Camps Guide will help you decide what experience offers the most exciting summer for your child. So take a look, contact the camp, ask questions, and remember: Camps are a rewarding, characterbuilding experience, for you and your child! —Parents Press
For more information (510) 581-3739 or www.sarahscience.com 8 Parents’ Press | May / June 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 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. 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 11 - 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: 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 hands-on 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: 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
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/
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
SILVER CREEK ACADEMY’S ACADEMIC CAMP (SAN JOSE )
BENTLEY SCHOOL SUMMER PROGRAM (LAFAYETTE)
Age or Grade Range: grades 1 - 8 Our summer academic camp at Laurel-
wood School will challenge students to think critically and creatively. The program will offer the best of our awardwinning 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) 791-4196. (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 18-22); 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 non-refrigerated 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)
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
Age or Grade Range: Ages 6-13
EL CERRITO SPORTS CAMP Non-competitive and Co-ed since 1992
Summer Camp 2018 El Cerrito Recreation Department
Summer Sports Camp Ages 4-12 @ Cerrito Vista Park Morning, Afternoon, and All Day Camps
Sports & Games Camp: Activities include Soccer, Basketball,
Fun in the Sun
Join us!
Baseball, Capture the Flag, Dodge Ball, Frisbee, Kick Ball, Hula Hoops, Jump Rope, Swimming, Play Structure, Foosball, Air Hockey & other board and table games
Soccer Camp
Baseball Camp
On-site registrations okay
Sunday Soccer & Baseball
@ Canyon Trail Park April 1 - May 27
Head Coach: Joel Gildersleeve Soccer 12:00 noon-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.
www.elcerritosportscamp.com (510) 559-8208
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
May / June 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/
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
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
legacy is still helping the earth. www. muircamp.org
TRAILBLAZERS CAMP (ALAMEDA)
TOUCH THE EARTH (OAKLAND)
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 www.alamedaca.gov/recreation
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, timetested 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
Age or Grade Range: Ages: 6-12 Touch the Earth Camp: Each week-long session focuses on a variety of naturebased 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
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 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
10 Parents’ Press | May / June 2018
MARIN COUNTY AVID4 ADVENTURE (MILL VALLEY)
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 childpaced 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 standup 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 small-group 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
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
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 experi-
ences 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-onone attention. We promise you’ll never get bored! http://www.communityarts. org/camps
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 num-
bers, 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,
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/
Summer at
Quarry Lane
A Private Jr. K-12 College Preparatory School 6363 Tassajara Rd., Dublin, CA 925.829.8000
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 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 SPROUTS COOKING CAMPS (OAKLAND) 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 10-15 campers with a camper/adult ratio of 3:1. Classes are led by guest chefs, and assisted by food and nutrition-loving counselors, from UC Berkeley, Paris, and across the US! http://www.sproutscookingclub.org/
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 11- July 20 Register at
www.QuarryLane.org/Summer
®
Education is a lifelong committment
®
May / June 2018 | Parents’ Press 11
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
children in the kitchen to be self-sufficient and make healthy choices. Hands On Culinary Arts? YES! www.theculinarydude.com
SAN FRANCISCO
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
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
Dance and Ballet Camps ALAMEDA COUNTY KATHRYN ROSZAK’S SUMMER DANCE CAMP (BERKELEY)
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.shawlanderson.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/professionaltraining-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) 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
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
12 Parents’ Press | May / June 2018
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.mtumc.org/#/ministries/children
Foreign Language and Cultural Immersion Camps ALAMEDA COUNTY BAY LANGUAGE ACADEMY (ALAMEDA) Age or Grade Range: Ages 4-12 We offer activities around languages and the cultures they convey with artistic workshops and cooking demo for Pre-K to 5th graders. Each weekly session will expose campers to different cultures and languages. Students attending middle school and high school are welcome to be part of a separate intensive language program. A variety of curricula aimed at (a) promoting empowerment and character growth; (b) sharing cultural differences (within the context of power point presentations, games, books, documentaries, music, art crafts workshops, storytelling and cooking demos); (c) instilling bonds of friendship, respect and trust; (d) challenge themselves and each other; (e) unleashing their creativity and sense of movement and music appreciation; (f) enjoying a picnic lunch and mini field trips
HANWEN MANDARIN IMMERSION SUMMER CAMP (BERKELEY) 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
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.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 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, 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 2018 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
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, stepby-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/SUMMERCAMP.html
LE CAMP D’ETE (BERKELEY)
EFBA FRENCH IMMERSION CAMPS (SAN FRANCISCO)
Age or Grade Range: 3.5-12 At Le Camp d’Eté, we focus on language acquisition for children through verbal,
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-camps-bayarea-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!
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
YOUTH BOATING & SAILING CAMPS (OAKLAND) Age or Grade Range: 7-17 Boating Camps ages 7 to 17, basic boating
to advanced sailing. Younger 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 8am-6pm 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-LeadershipTraining (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 all-camp carnivals. www.castilleja.org/casticamp
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 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-
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
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
•
415.775.6626
•
S H C P. E D U
May / June 2018 | Parents’ Press 13
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
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 non-residential Composition Workshop (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 pro-social 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 girlpowered media. http://go.spotlightgirls. com/register-for-go-girls-camp-oakland/ berkeley
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) 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 Philharmo-
CAMPS
The Dance Center and Berkeley City Ballet
Lakefront Summer Camp • Ages 4-16 Free Transportation • Free Extended Care 36 Bay Area Location Bus Stops
•
berkeleycityballet.org
celebrating •
46 YEARS
Join us for a camp tour! roughingit.com/visit 925.283.3795
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
14 Parents’ Press | May / June 2018
Design Firm:
Client: Publication: Contact: Ad Size: Insertion: Email:
February 2018 Amy Neiman Design Amy Neiman 1820 Tenth Street, Berkeley 94710 (510) 649-7787 Berkeley City Ballet Elizabeth Godfrey (510) 841-8913 Parent's Press — 2.333" x 7.75" parentsprs@aol.com (pdf OK)
nia 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 self-starters 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 two-character, 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 (nonmembers)/ 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
CHABOT SPACE & SCIENCE CAMPS (OAKLAND) Age or Grade Range: Grades 1-6 Students grades 1 through 6 will enjoy Chabot Space & Science Center’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/summer-camp.htm
GIRLS IN ENGINEERING (BERKELEY) 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/
SARAH’S SCIENCE CAMP (BERKELEY & OAKLAND)
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 (non-members)/ week FULL DAY (9:00am to 3:00pm): $360 (members), $375 (nonmembers)/ week www.creativity.org
Science Camps
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
SCIENCE CAMP AT THE ACADEMY (BERKELEY)
ALAMEDA COUNTY
The Academy’s Science Summer Camp features integrated, hands-on, 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/
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY INTRO TO STEM, SUMMER 18 (WALNUT CREEK) Age or Grade Range: Ages 9-12 Give your imagination a boost with tens of thousands of LEGO® 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://playwell.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 Build and program robots in this introductory Robotics class using the LEGO® WeDo® system. Learn basic program-
Age or Grade Range: Grades Pre-K-8th
CAMPS
THIS SUMMER, LEARN
Register Online at www.DigitalMediaAcademy.org
FRENCH AND HAVE FUN !
LE CAMP D'ÉTÉ ECOLE BILINGUE DE BERKELEY
July 23 - August 17 A day long camp for children in Preschool to Grade 5 who want to enjoy a French vacation at the heart of Berkeley! Register for one or all four weeks!
More information at lecampdete.com
Your Future Starts Here. Parents’ #1 choice for STEM education since 2002.
Join Us at Prestigious Locations Near You: Stanford University Los Gatos High School Limited Space Available - Register for Summer Camp Today!
May / June 2018 | Parents’ Press 15
ming 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 YMCA CAMP RAVENCLIFF (REDWAY) 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
CAMP CONCORD YOUTH CAMP (SOUTH LAKE TAHOE) Age or Grade Range: 9-13 Exclusive Youth Week of Camp at 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 oneday 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 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. Staffescorted flights offered to & from Oakland Airport to Reno. http://www.mountainmeadow.com
YMCA CAMP LOMA MAR (LOMA MAR) Age or Grade Range: Ages 7-15 YMCA Camp Loma Mar impacts hundreds of lives every year by helping youth and teens develop independence and an appreciation of the outdoors! Surrounded by giant redwoods, camp-
ers 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-camps-and-school-holiday-camps/camp-high-five/
Sports Camps 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
BERKELEY HIGH CREW SUMMER LEARN-TO-ROW CAMP (OAKLAND) Age or Grade Range: Ages 11-18 Berkeley High Crew’s summer rowing program offers local students, ages 11 and up, a chance to try this unique, growing sport with the Berkeley High School Crew coaches and current team members. Camp will focus on the development of basic rowing skills using rowing machines, our 16-person training barge, and 8-person racing shells. Come spend time with us
on the water this summer, no experience necessary!! http://www.berkeleyhighcrew. com/home/come-row/summer-camps/
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 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
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) 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
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
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
Our day camps offer exciting daily field trips to the Bay Area’s best museums, science centers, activities, and attractions. urban attractions
Registration opens mid-March! connect with Oakland Zoo online
oaklandzoo.org 16 Parents’ Press | May / June 2018
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
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/
FRANCISCO)
UC SANTA CRUZ NIKE VOLLEYBALL CAMP (SANTA CRUZ )
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/
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-nike-volleyballcamp for more information. https:// www.ussportscamps.com/volleyball/ nike/uc-santa-cruz-nike-volleyballcamp
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/summer-camps-andschool-holiday-camps/adventure-camp/
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
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 GIRLS SOCCER & LEADERSHIP competition or fitness and with a lifeCAMP (SAN FRANCISCO) long love of the water. Groups focus Age or Grade Range: Ages 8-16 on age and level appropriate stroke Girls Leading Girls is a 501c3 nonprofit technique to develop the four competithat trains girls ages 8-16 in leadership tive strokes, proper starts, and turns. and Parent's life skills through soccer! We havePress 3 Ad 2005 Press Ad 2017.qxp_Parent's 1/24/17 12:00program PM Pageis1 tiered Our competitive camps in SF in 2018: June 11, July 30, and into 6 groups based on age and skill August 13th. Learn soccer skills and leadlevel. Our youngest groups consist of ership training with all women coaches 8-10-year-olds and the National group and mentors. Contact us at info@girlsleais comprised of high school-aged athdinggirls.org or www.girlsleadinggirls. letes competing at the national level. org https://www.girlsleadinggirls.org/ https://www.teamunify.com/Home. news/2017/12/13/summer-camps-2018 jsp?_tabid_=0&team=pcscras
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. Camps include a daily hour of outdoor teambuilding activities (Mon-Thu) led by Xfit Training. https://www.thecoderschool. com
JR. SAILING PROGRAM (SAN
CAMPS ADVENTURE TIME Summer Summer Day Camp 2018 Day Camp 2017
June 11 12 Through June Through the End End of of Summer the Summer Enroll in in Any Enroll Any or or All All of the Weeks of the Weeks At elementary school sites in: Oakland, San Leandro, Castro Valley, Fremont, and Napa
......and our popular Oakland
Roberts Park Explorers!
Enroll Now For An Exciting Summer of Workshops, Arts, Crafts, Sports, Games, Swimming, And Fun!
For information or to enroll, call:
For Children Entering Kindergarten Through Sixth Grade www.adventure-timesummer.com Full-day or Half-day, 2, 3, 4, or 5 days per week
510-658-7412
Spanish Immersion Classes & Camps Engaging curriculum uses music, art & games Experienced, dynamic teachers Ages toddlers to teens Small class sizes
REGISTRATION IS OPEN! (510) 848-SING eastbaymusictogether.com
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
May / June 2018 | Parents’ Press 17
By Susan Solomon Yem
Singleminded BFFs
T
his is the story of John and Mary, whose names are not John and Mary. John and Mary met and married more than twenty years ago. During their early days as a couple, they traveled extensively, attended graduate school and eventually settled in Silicon Valley where both pursued careers that required high intensity and dedication. After close to a decade together they had a son. When that child was six years old, the bonds of matrimony started to fray. Although they continued to share a home for five more years, it was more as roommates than husband and wife. Eventually Mary moved out and after two years of living separately, John and Mary got a divorce. However, they still remain friends—or is it, friendly? John and Mary talk or text several times a day. They attend their son’s school functions together. They socialize with their common friends and they have not given up family vacations. They do not speak openly about the divorce, and many of their acquaintances are unaware of this change in their marital status.
BEST FRIENDS FOREVER
When I was in high school, divorce was rare in my hometown. Although it seemed odd at the time, the one couple that did end their marriage came to sports events to cheer on their daughters. When they both remarried, the foursome showed up together and really seemed to enjoy each other’s company. It is highly unlikely that my ex-husband and I could socialize together. I’m not even sure we could be in the same room at the same time! Divorced couples are supposed to be antagonists, not associates. Shouldn’t there be animosity instead of goodwill? Is it a sign of maturity that an ex-husband and ex-wife can be friends? “Ex-spouses may become good friends after some time has
passed and they have healed from the loss of the relationship and the family’s reorganization,” says Diana Blank, LCSW, a divorce and separation specialist at Parents Place in San Mateo. But how does the child interpret the cordial relationship? Does he think Mom and Dad will get back together because they get along so well? “Younger children often maintain a reunification fantasy,” responds Diana, who teaches a workshop called Parenting Young Children through Separation/Divorce and leads a single-parent support group that meets quarterly. “It is important that parents not feed into this fantasy, but rather help the child accept the family’s new reality.”
FANTASY VACATIONS
Shortly after their divorce was finalized, John and Mary took their son on a European vacation. Although they booked separate rooms, they spent all of their time together. They had fun and created some wonderful lasting memories, but did they also sow seeds of a potential reunion? “A family vacation could be a healing experience for a child if there is a clear message that the parents are not getting back together,” explains Diana. “The couple should be far along enough in their postdivorce adjustment process before they plan the trip, though.” Diana says it can be confusing for kids if the parents don’t talk openly about why they’re traveling together: “They need to discuss the reality of their continued divorce status. If the child is still struggling to accept the divorce, it might be best to postpone the trip.”
SOCIAL CIRCLES
Many of John and Mary’s mutual friends are the parents of their son’s friends. This social circle has remained supportive of all and no one appears to be lining up behind either. This seems
remarkable to me but actually benefits the children of divorce. As Diana suggests, “It is often very stabilizing for children to maintain the same social connections.” And it isn’t a bad thing for kids to spend time with other divorced families. This may normalize a somewhat abnormal situation. I am surprised at how many of my own children’s friends come from divorced households. They recognize this as a 21st-century fact of life—not every child grows up with two parents under the same roof.
MAKING NEW MATCHES
Neither John nor Mary is dating. In fact, with work commitments and managing the busy life of an adolescent, making new matches is not a consideration. But when that day comes, Diana recommends they not bring this new adult into their son’s life too soon. “It is highly recommended that
parents not introduce their children to dating partners until the relationship is considered solid, a long-term commitment,” she says. It takes time for exes to move past the pain of the dissolution of their marriage. “Each parent needs to keep working on adjusting to the divorce and a new life,” says Diana. “That can involve many changes and sometimes multiple losses before a friendship can be forged, maintained, and enjoyed.” Diana encourages divorced parents to work at being friends: “Children can benefit significantly from having cooperative co-parents who get along well and make good parenting decisions together.” And that’s exactly what John and Mary are doing. Susan Solomon Yem is singleminded about raising her five children to adulthood. She’d like to hear your stories about single parenting. Contact her at susansyem@gmail.com
By Tony Hicks
Raising Dad Texting = Miracle to Single Parents
A
dults love—and I mean love— griping about their kids and their darned overuse of texttweetyfacetagram on their phones, which are now legally mandated to be surgically connected to the hand of the child’s choice by the time they turn five years old. Or at least that’s how we old people see it. It’s the modern equivalent of our parents’ and grandparents’ stories of walking 12 miles to school in the snow, uphill ... both ways. But I’ve got some news for you: It’s not such a bad thing at all. I mean, at the risk of being tossed from the CPU (Curmudgeonly Parents Union), I say there are some serious benefits to technology when one must parent from a distance. When my first wife and I divorced, my now 16-year-old daughter was four. And trying to explain, while dealing with her emotions, was easily the worst part of the whole deal. Guilt, love, obligation, history ... all were factors in my determination to
18 Parents’ Press | May / June 2018
keep my relationship with her alive and well. But, ironically enough, our relationship got better pretty easily. The same went for my connection with her older sister. I don’t know if it was my doing, good luck, plain old circumstance or the money I was slipping them on the side to be nice to me. But it wasn’t easy, especially with the younger one. This was 2006, when there was that internet thing they still talk about, and cell phones fifty times the size they are now, and the beginnings of social media (poor MySpace—whatever happened to Tom, the guy who was everyone’s first friend?). But four year olds were different then. They still played with real toys. They weren’t submitting resumes to NASA before they could dress themselves. We still used something called a (not “smart” or “I”) telephone, on which we’d push numbers and a live human being would appear on the other end of the line. Then we’d talk. Like, with our voices and everything. Weird, huh?
So, being that I was trying to be the world’s greatest father while in the middle of a divorce, I would call my poor kid ... every night. Here she is, four, five, six years old, and she’s got this guy on the horn who can’t think of more than to ask her what her stuffed animals had for breakfast. Have you ever tried talking to a little kid on the phone on a consistent basis? It’s God-awful. They’re watching TV, or eating crackers, or pulling the dog’s left ear, and they just can’t care about much you have to say. A dozen years later, I’m going through a similar situation, and thank God— well, that’s not exactly how I should put it, because it’s no fun whatsoever—we now have texting. So when I feel guilty I’m no longer seeing my 9-year-old enough, we text. Short and concise conversations that can be continued at one’s leisure. No awkward pauses. No sadness over why the child would rather smear food on the cat than talk to daddy. Texting has become a miracle to single parents. It prompts kids to
Texting has become a miracle to single parents. It prompts kids to communicate with us. This is a biggie. communicate with us. This is a biggie. I don’t think I used any word with more than a single syllable to my parents between the ages of 13 and 18. And the awkwardness of actual, real human verbal interaction is virtually eliminated. Well, as much as is realistically possible. With multisyllable words, even. Tony Hicks is a newswpaper columnist and the father of four daughters.
By Erika Mailman
On the Go Boating with Kids on the Bay and its connection to Anthony Chabot, who helped devise the ill-fated hydraulic mining and was known as the “Water King.” You can get a box lunch from Stan’s Coffee on the lake for $10 to take on the tour. The lake itself is 315 acres in a sort of loose W shape: much to oar through! Note: Swimming is never permitted at this lake because it is a backup drinking water supply source. At the time of this writing, all contact with water is warned against because of toxic algae blooms. Make sure children are old enough to understand not to dip their hands into the water while boating. 17936 Lake Chabot Rd., Castro Valley http://www.lakechabotrecreation.com/
FINAL WORDS
Wherever you choose to go, please check the safety rules at each site. Some places charge for lifejackets while others include them in the rental fee. You’ll want to make sure your family has a game plan in place for what to do in case someone falls into the drink. Hopefully, your kids have already taken swimming lessons and are strong swimmers. The water is a wonderful, welcoming place so long as you treat it with respect. I’ve only listed a handful of boating options here; a little web research will yield many more. Enjoy your time on the water!
Lake Merritt, Oakland
W
e all say we want to get the kids off their screens and into nature more, so I’m resolving to pack a picnic lunch and spend a few hours on the water. There are many options for boating with kids on the bay—or on lakes if the big waves and possibility of sharks scare you. (You did know Tiburon means shark in Spanish, right?)
LAKE MERRITT BOATING CENTER
Oakland’s spent many resources on improving Lake Merritt. It sparkles with cleaner water and a beautiful walking loop around its three-mile perimeter. Besides boating, your younger kids will enjoy the vintage amusement park on its shores, Children’s Fairyland. For boating, check in at the Lake Merritt Boating Center (it’s cash only, so visit the ATM first). You can rent pretty much any kind of boat, from a rowboat to a kayak to a pontoon, and sailboats for more experienced sailors; all are $15-18 an hour plus deposit. You can even book time on a Chinese dragon boat as long as you also hire one of center’s instructors, running about $90 an hour all-included. Once you’re on the water, you’ll see glorious buildings like the Kaiser Center, the courthouse and the Scottish Rite temple, the beautiful old homes peppering the hillside, plus the more modern skyscrapers. Not far from the boating center is a wildlife refuge and bird sanctuary, and you’ll see many coots, herons and pelicans. 568 Bellevue Ave., Oakland; For hours and fees: http://www2.oaklandnet.com/ Government/o/opr/s/boating/OAK029815
STOW LAKE, GOLDEN GATE PARK, SAN FRANCISCO
This lovely historic lake lets you rent paddleboats, rowboats and even motor-
ized boats—powered by electricity so they run silently. The boats are all American-made and are billed as “the most non-tipping, self-bailing, unsinkable boats.” (Isn’t that what they said about the Titanic? I digress). The boats run $2237 per hour depending on type. There’s much to see as you paddle around: a charming stone bridge, a Chinese pagoda and a waterfall. There’s a café right on the lake for treats afterward. 50 Stow Lake Drive, San Francisco For hours and fees: http://stowlakeboathouse.com/boats/
the wee craft to $80/hour for the patio pontoon that holds up to eight people. Budding fishers can also rent rod and reel for a flat $8. If you’d like another adult on the scene, you can do a guided 2.5-hour kayak tour for adults at $45 and children six years and up at $25. These tours include information about the lake’s history dating to the 1700s
Erika Mailman is a Northern California freelance writer. Reach her at Erikaeditor@cs.com.
SEATREK, SAUSALITO
For kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding on the open water, check out SeaTrek rentals. Paddleboards look (for some, like me) intimidating but are actually not that hard to stand up on. The boards are wider and much more stable than they look from shore. You’ll receive a quick orientation to make sure you’re comfortable before you set out. At this spot, you’ll see marine wildlife, harbor seals, spectacular views of San Francisco, Alcatraz and the north bay, and even some floating homes in Richardson Bay. A single kayak runs $25/hour while a double is $40/hour. The paddleboards are $25/hour or $50/ hour for the Monster paddleboard which holds several people and is proclaimed on the website as a “hoot.” 2100 Bridgeway, Sausalito https://www.seatrek.com/rentals/
LAKE CHABOT, CASTRO VALLEY
We camped here once, and I’ve always wanted to return and go out on the water. This is a pristine and beautiful lake. You can rent rowboats, kayaks, pedal boats, electric motor boats and electric pontoons, ranging from $23/hour for
Pleasant Hill’s Premiere
LEARN
EXPERIENCE
DO
SEE EXPLORE PLAY
GROW CONTACT US TODAY:
Lake Chabot, Castro Valley
(925) 687 - 5321 CiLMontessori.org info@cilmontessori.org 490 Golf Club Road Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
NOW ACCEPTING STUDENTS FOR: PREPARING FOR PRESCHOOL Ages 2-3 1/2
MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL Ages 3-6
CHILD CARE Ages 2-6 (available to registered students only)
May / June 2018 | Parents’ Press 19
Family Fun Calendar MAY 1 | Tuesday Oakland Coliseum Ballpark Tours— Oakland Home of Moneyball! Take a tour of areas of the ballpark that are usually not available to the public, such as the Press Box, Owners Suite, Press Conference Room, Dugouts and Visitors’ Clubhouse. Cameras welcome! Tours are available on predetermined dates and times through the end of July. 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. $20/adults, 10 and under $15, 2 and under free Oakland Coliseum 7000 Coliseum Way, Oakland m.mlb.com/athletics/tickets/tours/ coliseum-tours
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, www. legionofhonor.famsf.org.
Free First Tuesday at the De Young Museum — San Francisco 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, www. deyoung.famsf.org
2 | Wednesday Free First Wednesday at Bay Area Discovery Museum — Sausalito Enjoy free admission and all the fun activities and displays at the Bay Area Discovery Museum today. 9 a.m.-5p.m. Free. Bay Area Discovery Museum, 577 McReynolds Road, Sausalito. 415-339-3900, www.baykids museum org
3 | Thursday Free First Thursday at the Berkeley Art Museum — Berkeley Through art and film programs, collections, and research resources, the Uni-
versity 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
4 | Friday First Friday Open House: An Evening of Far Off Ideas— Oakland Join in for an evening hosted by the Prime Minister of Far Off Ideas featuring student work from over 10 newly published books written by Hoover, Allendale, Acorn, Dover & Maya Lin Elementary schools. 6-7 p.m. Free. Chapter 510 & The Dept. of Make Believe 2301 Telegraph Ave. Oakland. 510-634-5170, www. chapter510.org
PRESCHOOLS Enrolling now: a NEW Montessori school in Berkeley Ages 2.5-6 • Immediate start • Year-round
H e l p i n g t O m a k e c h i l d h o o d a j O u r n e y, n O t a r a c e .
Our core ideals • • • • •
compassion and kindness supporting creativity building community passion for learning peace
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.
510-652-7021 admin@rockridgemon tessori.org www.RockridgeMontessori.org
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
20 Parents’ Press | May / June 2018
$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 handson 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
5 | Saturday Cinco de Mayo Dance Festival— Oakland Oakland-based turfinc brings dance battles, traditional folklorico dancing, quebradita dancing, banda music, dancing horses, live painting, bmx stunts, chicano lowrider cars, local vendors and eats, and more to oakland waterfront Noon -7 p.m. Free. All ages. Jack London Square, 70 Washington St., Oakland. 510645-9292, www.jacklondonsquare.com
James and the Giant Peach— Berkeley From the Oscar-winning team that brought you the music of La La Land
and the hit Broadway musicals Dear Even Hansen and A Christmas Story comes an all new, adventure-filled family classic based on the beloved story by Roald Dahl. Through 5/6. 1:00 and 7:00 p.m. $20 and up. Berkeley Playhouse, Berkeley Playhouse, 2640 College , Ave., Berkeley, 510-845-8542 x351, www.Berkeleyplayhouse.org
Japantown Children’s Day Festival— San Francisco Bring out the whole family for a fun day in Japantown! Participate in cultural arts and crafts activities, bounce houses, games and prizes for the kids! You won’t want to miss the cultural performances and storytelling of Japanese folktales as well
11 a.m.-4 p.m. FREE. All ages. Japantown Peace Plaza 1610 Geary Blvd. San Francisco, (415) 567-5505, www. jcccnc.org
Free Comic Book Day— Nationwide National free comic book day means that many local retailers of comic books will be giving away free comic books or discounts on comic books. Several Bay Area stores are participating. All Day. Free. All ages. Nationwide. Check www. freecomicbookday.com to find which stores near you are participating.
6 | Sunday Asian Heritage Street Celebration — San Francisco Performances from traditional to contemporary, enjoy an eclectic mix of live performances on stage and in the streets. Fun for all ages, make your own arts and crafts and visit vendor booths to support local businesses. 11am-4pm. Free. Asian Art Museum & All Along Larkin St. from Ellis to Fulton St., www.asianfairsf.com
Alameda Point Antique Faire — Alameda The Alameda Point Antiques Faire is the largest antiques show in Northern
PRESCHOOLS
Color Me Children Preschool & Kindergarten #013411559
The Model School
Comprehensive Humanistic Learning Center
Infants • Toddlers • Preschool !
Multicultural, Multiethnic Environments • Se Habla Español!
“A Place Where Learning is FUN-DA-MENTAL” Ages 2 Yrs.– Kindergarten
• 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday • Full-time & Part-time Rates • Challenging Academics • Small Classes • Large Outside Play Area • Computers NOW ENROLLING FOR KINDERGARTEN 8115 Fontaine St., Oakland, CA 94605
• (510) 430-1322
Flexible Scheduling Loving, Developmental, Child-Oriented Classrooms Year’round Enrollment, Reasonable Rates
2330 Prince Street, Berkeley, CA 94705 NAEYC Accredited
Celebrating 32 years! (510) 724-1724 www.la-casita.org Lic. #073400781
A Unique Bilingual Montessori Education Preschool, Transitional-K and Kindergarten (2.5-6 years)
Spanish and English
Music Classes
Flamenco
Now Enrolling for Summer 2018 and 2018-2019 School Year
Yoga
CHATHAM SCHOOL
C
S
Chool FUN Chatham HILD-CENTERED PRESCHOOL Fun Child-Centered PreSChool 4500 Road 4500 Redwood Redwood Road Oakland, CA 94619 Oakland, CA 94619
4359 39th Avenue 4359 39th Avenue Oakland, CA 94619 Oakland, CA 94619 Lic#01341436
66 mo. mo. --Kindergarten Kindergarten
2 yrs. - Kindergarten 2 yrs. - Kindergarten extended care
Lic#013418176 Lic#013418176 Lic#013418177 Lic# 013418177
((510) 5 1 0 ) 531-1302 531-1302 fax: (510) 531-1301
Drama
592 Tennent Ave. Pinole, CA 94564
(510) 549-2711
Lic. 010211122 & 010211112
Lic#01341436
(510) ( 5 1 0531-1534 ) 531-1534
• We do Potty Training • Snacks/Hot Lunch We do Potty Training • Snacks / Hot Lunch Part Time/Full Time 7:30 am-6 pm Part Time / Full Time 7:30am - 6pm
www.chathampreschool.com www.chathampreschool.com
American Montessori Society Member
May / June 2018 | Parents’ Press 21
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. 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
Free First Sunday at OMCA — Oakland Enjoy a free day this spring at OMCA! Discover what life was like during the California Gold Rush days. Come and try your hand at panning for real gold, Forty-Niner style, in the Museum gardens. Learn how to tell the difference between real gold and fool’s gold, and keep all you find! 11a.m.-5p.m. Free. All ages. Oakland Museum of California,1000 Oak St., Oakland. 510-318-8400, www. museumca.org
How Weird Street Faire — San Francisco Billed as a “street fair for the 21st century,” this fun event includes nine stages of music over seven city blocks; food and vendors from around the world, and educational booths. Noon–8 p.m., $20. Howard and Second Streets, www.howweird.org
A La Carte & Art—Mountain View This annual celebration of the arts in Silicon Valley’s epicenter with two sunsplashed days of stellar live music on stage and street throughout downtown, a juried arts and crafts show with 200 of the west coast’s top artists showing their latest handcrafted wares, fabulous food and drink with premium fine wine, refreshing craft beer, a farmers’ market with fresh seasonal produce, artisan specialty food purveyors, health and wellness displays, an organic and green products showcase, home and garden exhibits. From 10:00 am – 6:00 pm. FREE. All Ages. Downtown Mountain View, 400 Castro St., Mountain View, alacarte. miramarevents.com
11 | Friday Rosie the Riveter Museum — Richmond Rosie Meet and Greet . Most Fridays, a group of civilian WWII docents share their stories in an informal setting at the Visitor Center. Here is your chance to ask the experts about life and work in the Richmond Shipyards. 10 a.m. or 1p.m. Free. All ages. Visitor Center open daily, 10:00am to 5:00pm at 1414 Harbour Way South, Richmond, CA. 510-232-5050, www.nps.gov/rori
12 | Saturday Illuminated Circus—Oakland Circus Kids 4 Performance, now in its sixth year, is one of Kinetic Arts Center’s signature Youth Circus Training programs. The troupe features 16 performers between the ages of 8-13yrs old. The troupe features 15 performers between the ages of 8-13yrs old. Illuminated Circus will feature acts developed over several months of rehearsal and will showcase skills in partner acrobatics, rope, tissue, lyra and physical theatre. Saturdays 7 pm, Sundays 2 pm. $12 and up. All ages. Kinetic Arts Center 785 7th St Oakland, 510-444-4800, www. kineticartscenter.com
Second Saturdays— Oakland With more than 40 vendors, the Jack London Square Farmers Market offers local produce, food craft products, and breakfast and lunch options. 11 a.m. -5 p.m. Free. All ages. Jack London Square, 70 Washington St., Oakland. 510-645-9292, www. jacklondonsquare.com
Pre-Mother’s Day Birdhouse Construction Workshop— Berkeley Celebrate mama birds at this pre-mother’s day workshop. Kids and their favorite grown up are invited to team up and collaborate on this simple construction project. Working with carpenter and designer, Hannah Beatrice Quinn, assemble the birdhouse with hammer and nails, paint it, and add finishing touches with materials from the Garden
10 -12 p.m. $40 one child and one adult and one birdhouse kit. Ages 6 and up. UC Botanical Garden at Berkeley, 200 Centennial Dr., Berkeley, 510 644 9841, events.berkeley.edu
13 | Sunday — Mothers’ Day Mother’s Day Weekend — El Cerrito Moms get $2 off admission this weekend! Challenge mom to see who can win the most tickets and prizes this weekend, enjoy the miniature scenes and games. 10 a.m.-5p.m. $10/children and seniors. $15/general admission. Playland Notat-the-Beach, 10979 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 510-592-3002, www.playlandnot-at-the-beach.org
Park Street Spring Faire — Alameda Celebrate Mother’s Day at this annual weekend event featuring craft vendors, live music, food and drink, a kids’ area, and more. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., free. Park Street, Alameda, downtownalameda.com
Mother’s Day at the Oakland Zoo— Oakland Watch some of our resident animal mommies enjoy some special, and much deserved mom-only enrichment. 10am-4pm. Free with Admission. All ages. Oakland Zoo, 9777 Golf Links Rd., Oakland. 510-632-9525, www.oaklandzoo.org
14 | Monday Oakland Coliseum Ballpark Tours— Oakland Home of Moneyball! Take a tour of areas of the ballpark that are usually not available to the public, such as the Press Box, Owners Suite, Press Conference Room, Dugouts and Visitors’ Clubhouse. Cameras welcome! Tours are available on predetermined dates and times through the end of July. 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. $20/adults, 10 and under $15, 2 and under free Oakland Coliseum 7000 Coliseum Way, Oakland m.mlb.com/athletics/tickets/tours/ coliseum-tours
16 | Wednesday Dance With Me — Berkeley Shawl-Anderson Dance Center’s Dance with Me class is for walkers through age 4 and their caretakers. Children and adults will dance, sing, play movement games and enjoy props for this fun-filled 45 minute class. This class repeats every Wednesday. 9-9:45 a.m. and 10-10: 45 a.m. $16/per child. Ages walking-4 years. ShawlAnderson Dance Center, 2704 Alcatraz Ave., Berkeley. 510-654-592, www. shawl-anderson.org
17 | Thursday 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 -9p.m. Free admission. All ages. Piedmont Ave., Piedmont. www. piedmontavestroll.org
18 | Friday Oakland Coliseum Ballpark Tours— Oakland Home of Moneyball! Take a tour of areas of the ballpark that are usually not available to the public, such as the Press Box, Owners Suite, Press Conference Room, Dugouts and Visitors’ Clubhouse. Cameras welcome! Tours are available on predetermined dates and times through the end of July. 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. $20/adults, 10 and under $15, 2 and under free Oakland Coliseum 7000 Coliseum Way, Oakland m.mlb.com/athletics/tickets/tours/ coliseum-tours
Maker Faire — San Mateo Maker Faire is an annual event hosted by Make magazine, for those who combine science, technology, and art. It is regarded to be one of the best festivals of its kind and is not to be missed. This weekend-long faire features more than
PRESCHOOLS Montessori Children’s Center An Authentic Montessori preschool and Kindergarten, serving children ages 2 - 6
Oakland Montessori School
Full and half-day programs available • Before and after school care Open 7am - 6pm
Summer Adventure Camp
Art & Science Projects | Cooking | Nature Activities 9 week session June 18 through August 17 Lic #384001313
80 Juan Bautista Circle | San Francisco | 415.333.4410 | montessorichildrenscenter.org
Montessori at Five Canyons 510.581.3729 22781 Canyon Ct. Castro Valley www.montessoricastrovalley.com Toddlers (18 mo.) - Preschool - TK - Kindergarten - Extended Daycare
Serving children 24 months to 6 years
Join our diverse community of confident children, supportive parents and experienced teachers. ART • MUSIC • GYMNASTICS • YOGA
Tours on Wednesdays at 9:30am Please RSVP at info@oaklandmontessori.com Free the child’s potential, and you will transform him into the world. - Maria Montessori
22 Parents’ Press | May / June 2018
510-482-3111
www.oaklandmontessori.com
•
3636 Dimond Ave
Lic #010214163
Call us today:
10 hands-on workshops for kids, as well as hundreds of booths, exhibits and performances. This event runs Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Buy tickets in advance online for the best deal. Fri 1p.m.-6p.m., Sat & Sun 10 a.m.-6 p.m. $50/adults, $30/Children 4-17. Children under 3 free. All ages. San Mateo County Events Center, 1346 Saratoga Dr., San Mateo. www.makerfaire.com
Nature Detectives: May Marvelous Mothers— Hayward
just get hands dirty. This is a chance to have sensory fun without all the clean up! Advance registration required. 10:30 a.m.-11:15 a.m. or 2:30 p.m.-3:15 p.m. $5 per child. Ages 1 to 3. Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center, 4901 Breakwater Ave., Hayward. 510-6707270, www.haywardrec.org
19 | Saturday Kids ‘n Kites Festival— Fremont
Nature Detectives is a program for 3 to 5 year old children and their caregivers, designed to inspire curiosity and imagination by exploring the natural world through hikes, experiments and crafts. 1:00 –1:45 p.m. $8. 3-5 years. Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center, 4901 Breakwater Ave., Hayward, www. haywardrec.org
Toddler Ramble — Hayward May Messiness-For some of us, this is our favorite month of the year, because each week we have the chance to get dirty! We will play with the mud outside the first and last weeks, so an extra set of clothes and boots might be needed. Otherwise, our messy play will
The City of Fremont Parks and Recreation Department is holding its annual Kids ‘n Kites Festival. The festival is free to the public and includes free kites to the first 3,000 children in attendance. There will be live entertainment on the main stage, interactive booths highlighting summer activities, play area for the kids, food, and more. The festival has something fun for everyone! 10 a.m- 3 p.m. Free. All ages. Central Park, next to Aqua Adventure Waterpark, Fremont. www.fremont.gov
Headlands Nightlife: Family Night Hike and Campfire— Sausalito
Marin Headlands. Our evening hikes are usually no more than 2 miles and allow for fun and learning along the way. After the hike we provide all the necessary supplies for some fun around the campfire including S’more roasting, campfire skits & fun sing alongs. 6.p m. $15. All ages NatureBridge Golden Gate, 1033 Fort Cronkhite Sausalito. naturebridge.org/goldengate/
Illuminated Circus— Oakland Circus Kids 4 Performance, now in its sixth year, is one of Kinetic Arts Center’s signature Youth Circus Training programs. The troupe features 16 performers between the ages of 8-13yrs old. The troupe features 15 performers between the ages of 8-13yrs old. Illuminated Circus will feature acts developed over several months of rehearsal and will showcase skills in partner acrobatics, rope, tissue, lyra and physical theatre. Saturdays 7 pm, Sundays 2 pm. $12 and up. All ages. Kinetic Arts Center 785 7th St Oakland, 510-444-4800, www.kineticartscenter.com
This program features an Environmental Science Educator-led hike in the
21 | Monday Munchkin Mondays — Concord Energetic toddlers can jump for one hour or longer. Sky High Sports features dozens of large trampolines for hours of indoor bouncing fun. For kids walking up to 6 years. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $6/per child, per hour. Not valid on holidays. Sky High Sports, 1631 Challenge Dr., Concord. 925-6825867, www.con.jumpskyhigh.com
Fan Friday A’s Game & Star Wars Fireworks—Oakland Watch the Athletics take on the Diamondbacks then enjoy a post game fireworks show. 6:35 p.m. Free with game admission. All Ages. Oakland Coliseum 7000 Coliseum Way, Oakland. www.oakland.athletics. mlb.com
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.
PRESCHOOLS Dynamic Education The Optimizing Each Child’s Potential Child Now Enrolling Summer / Fall 2018 Day Schools, LLC 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 Lic# 073406846 073406845, 0734066634
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
(510) 524-9399
www.CreativePlayCenterAlbany.com 1151 Portland Ave., Albany, CA 94706
Lic. #010204748
If you could give your child one gift to last a lifetime, what would it be?
www.nomurapreschool.com
A ministry of Bay Area Chinese Bible Church
A ministry ofMonday Bay Area Chinese Bible Church - Friday 7am - 6pm lunch service provided
1803 TTPreschoolalameda.org North Loop Rd. Alameda, CA 94502
Facility # 013422027 1803 North Loop Rd | Alameda | Facility # 013422027 510-995-5383 ext. 1336 | kim.smith@bacbc.org Telephone # 510-995-5383 ext. 1336 Fax # 510-373-2241 kim.smith@bacbc.org
• Preparation for Kindergarten • Nurturing Academic Environment • Ballet, Hip Hop Dance, Gymnastics, Violin, Piano, and Soccer
Lic. #070209834
• Music, Art, and Language Programs • Expansive Outdoor Play Area • Hours: 7a.m. – 6p.m. (Year-Round) • Ages 2-5 Years and Bridge K Class
Open House - May 12th (10am-12pm) 1711 Carlson Blvd., Richmond Annex 94804
Call to Schedule a Tour: 510-526-7847 May / June 2018 | Parents’ Press 23
6:30-9:30pm. $7/person. All ages. Oakland Zoo, 9777 Golf Links Rd., Oakland. 510-6329525, www.oaklandzoo.org
Friday Nights @ Oakland Museum of California — Oakland
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
925-254-7553
19 Altarinda Rd., Orinda, CA 94563 • www.OrindaAcademy.org
Structure - Support - Success Inspiring Success, Fulfilling Potential
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. 5-9 p.m. Members and ages 18 and under free; half-off gallery admission for adults ($7.50) 50 10th Street, Oakland 510- 3188400, www.museumca.org
26 | Saturday Bay Area KidFest — Concord Bay Area KidFest is a 3-day weekend of live entertainment, activities and sports for children to stimulate learning and exploration while presenting parents with new ideas and opportunities. KidFest also showcases community groups dedicated to families and children while celebrating the value and importance of families as a key part of a healthy community. Additionally, there are 20 rides (Ferris wheel, pony rides, EuroBungy trampoline, Bobble Lagoon, petting zoo, giant slide and much more). Rides and the food court charge separately from admission price. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday. Downtown Concord at Mt. Diablo High School, 2450 Grant Street, Concord. www.kidfestconcord.com
Family Matinee: Spring Combo & Big Band Concert — San Francisco
California Crosspoint Academy Grades 6-12
JUNE 1 | Friday First Friday Open House: MetWest Oral History Publication Party — Oakland Come celebrate the publication of our very first high-school oral history collection from MetWest 10th grade writers. This will be a beautiful night to celebrate these students and their families with a title designed and perfectly bound for you to purchase and enjoy. 6-9 p.m. Free. Chapter 510 & The Dept. of Make Believe 2301 Telegraph Ave. Oakland. 510-634-5170, www. chapter510.org
Friday Nights @ Oakland Museum of California — Oakland Join OMCA and Off the Grid in April for DJs, live bands, dancing, gourmet food trucks, and more. There will be a family Drop-in activity related to one of the exhibits. 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Members and ages 18 and under free, $7.50 adults. Oakland Museum of California, 50 10th St., Oakland. 510-318-8400, www. museumca.org
Yerba Buena Gardens Festival: Non Stop Bhangra — San Francisco
There’s no reason kids can’t dance like they’re in a Bollywood epic. Featured every month at Public Works in the Mission, Non Stop Bhangra brings the The All-Stars wrap up the 2017–18 season party to the Gardens, offering a unique with an exciting afternoon of music in experience that celebrates the beautithe lovely Miner Auditorium. Each spring, ful and vibrant spirit of this traditional SFJAZZ commissions an original big-band Punjabi folk music and dance. work by an alumnus of the High School All11am & 12:15pm. Free. Children’s Stars program. Garden, Yerba Buena Gardens 799 1 p.m. $10-$20. All Ages SFJAZZ Center, Howard St. San Francisco, 415-543-1718, Miner Auditorium 201 Franklin St., San www. ybgfestival.org Francisco, ticketing.sfjazz.org
27 | Sunday
2 | Saturday
San Ramon Art & Wind Festival Sand Castle & Sand Sculpture Contest — - San Ramon Alameda This festival is held in the city’s Central Park featuring 175 arts, crafts and specialty pre-packaged food booths, entertainment on three stages, kite-flying demos, kite making workshops, kids’ activities, non-profit food and beverage booths. Sun. & Mon. 11 a.m.- 6 p.m. Free. All ages. San Ramon Central Park, 12501 Alcosta Blvd, www.sanramon.ca.gov
Leopard Shark Feeding Frenzy—Hayward
Stats for the California Crosspoint University Preparatory Program: • 100% of our graduates go on to college or the military • 90% accepted into 4 year colleges • 18 Advanced Placement and Honors Courses • Average class size of 15-18 • Student to Faculty Ratio: 5 to 1
Accreditations and Awards
WASC | ACSI | 2016 National Blue Ribbon School
Campus Tours available at YOUR convenience! California Crosspoint Academy 25500 Industrial Blvd | Hayward | 510.995.5333 www.crosspointacademy.org More info: debbieleong@crosspointacademy.org
24 Parents’ Press | May / June 2018
Help a naturalist feed our resident leopard shark, surfperch, snakes and lizards. Learn more about them and our other aquatic and land inhabitants. who will get to the food first? 2 p.m. Free. All ages. Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center 4901 Breakwater Ave., Hayward, www.haywardrec.org
28 | Monday— Memorial Day Playland’s Extra Day To Play — El Cerrito The East Bay’s Best Birthday Party Venue celebrates its own 8th birthday with pinball and carnival-game contests, special magic shows and plenty of surprises! Our present to you is that we are OPEN Monday. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $10/children and seniors, $15/general admission. Playland Not-atthe-Beach, 10979 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 510-592-3002, www.playland-not-at-thebeach.org
Start your creative juices flowing; bring your shovel and buckets to the beach to create a unique piece of art at the Annual Sand Castle and Sculpture Contest! This FREE event is a fabulous family fun activity to either participate in or just come down to watch all of the action. 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Free. All ages. Robert Crown Memorial State Beach. 8th Street and Otis Drive 510-747-7529, alamedaca. gov
Cherry Festival — San Leandro Upwards of 30,000 people attend the Cherry Festival to partake in food, a beer garden, live entertainment, handmade arts and crafts, a special Kids Zone with rides and games, Farmer’s Market with lots of cherries, community and City resources, and a cherry store selling everything cherry! 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. All ages. Downtown San Leandro 384 W Estudillo Ave., San Leandro. www.sanleandro.org
3 | Sunday Free First Sunday at OMCA— Oakland Enjoy a free day this spring at the Oakland Museum. Explore science in the newly opened family-friendly exhibition Bees: Tiny Insect, Big Impact. Enjoy panning for gold with the drop-in activity. Round out your exploration of the galleries by painting a portrait of
yourself to hang in the Gallery of California Art. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. All ages. Oakland Museum of California, 1000 Oak St., Oakland. 510-318-8400, www.museumca. org
Sunnyvale Art & Wine Festival— Sunnyvale Check out over 350 of the nation’s best artists, live music, kids’ rides, and fine wines. Enjoy delicious food and a professional stage with some of the best bands in the region. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. All ages. Downtown Sunnyvale at Historic Murphy Avenue, S Murphy Ave, Sunnyvale
4 | Monday
8 | 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,
Yerba Buena Gardens Festival: Māhealani Uchiyama— San Francisco Halau KaUaTuahine shares songs and dances of Hawaii and Tahiti, offering a cross section of classical and contemporary Hawaiian hula as well as joyful
Oakland Coliseum Ballpark Tours— Oakland
rhythms of the traditional Tahitian hula. 11am & 12:15pm. Free. Children’s Garden, Yerba Buena Gardens 799 Howard St. San Francisco, 415-543-1718, www. ybgfestival.org
$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 handson 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
Splash Pad — El Cerrito Children of all ages can enjoy splashing in the padded sprinkler park at the El Cerrito Swim Center. Facilities include picnic area and changing rooms. This event repeats each Friday. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. $2 per person, cash only. All ages. El Cerrito Community Center, 7007 Moeser Ln., El Cerrito. 510-5597011, www.el-cerrito.org
9 | Saturday Second Saturdays— Oakland With more than 40 vendors, the Jack London Square Farmers Market offers local produce, food craft products, and breakfast and lunch options.
SCHOOLS
Home of Moneyball! Take a tour of areas of the ballpark that are usually not available to the public, such as the Press Box, Owners Suite, Press Conference Room, Dugouts and Visitors’ Clubhouse. Cameras welcome! Tours are available on predetermined dates and times through the end of July. 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. $20/adults, 10 and under $15, 2 and under free Oakland Coliseum 7000 Coliseum Way, Oakland m.mlb.com/athletics/tickets/tours/ coliseum-tours
5 | Tuesday Monthly Mini Model Build — Pleasanton Visit a local LEGO Store on the first Tuesday of every month and learn how to build a cool mini-model, and take it home for free. Quantities are limited and offer is good while supplies last only. One free model per child. See store for more details. 5 p.m. Free. Ages 6-14 Only. Lego Store, Stoneridge Shopping Center, 1 Stoneridge Mall Rd., Pleasanton, 925-737-0704
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.
Free First Tuesday at the De Young Museum — San Francisco 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
6 | Wednesday Free First Wednesday at Bay Area Discovery Museum — Sausalito Enjoy free admission and all the fun activities and displays at the Bay Area Discovery Museum today. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Bay Area Discovery Museum, 577 McReynolds Road, Sausalito. 415-339-3900, www.baykids museum.org
7 | Thursday BAMPFA: Free First Thursday —Berkeley First Thursdays are a great time to visit BAMPFA. The galleries are free all day and we offer guided exhibition tours. 11 a.m.- 7 p.m. Free. All Ages 2155 Center Street Berkeley, www.bampfa.berkeley. edu
We are still accepting applications for 2018-2019
The
Journey Begins Here The Renaissance International School French-Spanish Immersion • Visual Art • Music Challenging Academics • Engaging Environment Ages 2 ~ Middle School OPEN HOUSE DATES
Childcare Provided All Levels (ages 2 - Middle School)
May 5 & June 9 Campus 9:30am-11:30am
starts at Oakland
TOUR DATES
Adults Only Primary/Pre-Primary
May 9 & 18 Oakland Campus 9:30am-11:30am
SUMMER CAMP at TRIS If you are interested in Elementary-Middle School Summer Camp program. Please email at
summer@therenaissanceschool.org
lic# 010214382 www.TheRenaissanceSchool.org Oakland Campus: 3650 Dimond Ave. / Piedmont Campus: 5201 Park Blvd.
May / June 2018 | Parents’ Press 25
Are you pregnant, breastfeeding, or have children under 5? You may be eligible for no-cost nutrition advice, breastfeeding support, community referrals, and checks to buy healthy foods!
11 a.m. -5 p.m. Free. All ages. Jack London Square, 70 Washington St., Oakland. 510-645-9292, www. jacklondonsquare.com
Most insurance
For more information and to see if you qualify, contact:
Fair Favorites will be back including horseracing, exhibits, animals, food, rides, games, pig races, Kids’ Park & STEAM Weekends, special event days and more. A complete schedule is available on the Fair’s website. Thru 7/8. 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. $8.00-$50.00, under 5 free. All Ages. Alameda County Fairgrounds 4501 Pleasanton Ave., Pleasanton, www.alamedacountyfair.com
510-465-0941
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 Are you concerned about the safety of your son or daughter? • Is your teen no longer listening to you? stores, and many other shops. Featuring Have you tried therapy or other avenues of support that haven’t worked? art, music, and more! No. California Pirate Festival—Vallejo Is your son or daughter already in an out-of-home placement and are you looking to connect with other parents in the same The playground of maritime music fans, 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Free admission. All situation? living history re-enactors and foodies ages. Piedmont Ave., Piedmont. www. This six-week parenting group starting in early March offers help and support during stressful times. enjoying micro brews and fresh fish piedmontavestroll.org Cindy Rasicot, MFT is in private practice in Lafayette, California withand a specialization adoption issues. Sheeach is a Fathers chips, inbut in Vallejo Director of Willows in the Wind, www.willowsinthewind.com Day Weekend, children are also invited For additional information about the group and to schedule introductory meeting for cannon to joina free over 30,000 visitors battles, costume contests, and treasure Cindy Rasicot, MFT | cindy.rasicot@gmail.com | 510.332.0463 Yerba Buena Gardens hunts. This festival offers a treasure trove of entertainment and activities for Festival: Parangal Dance | East Bay | Parents’ Press 11 younger pirates. Company— San FranciscoMarch 2014 Sat. & Sun.10a.m.-6 p.m. $12 for Parangal Dance Company is a Filipino adults, child 12 and under free with folk dance group dedicated to preservpaid admission. Waterfront Park, 2/25/14 11:27 AM ing and promoting the ethnic attire, 289 Mare Island Way, Vallejo. www. music and dance of the Philippines norcalpiratefestival.com through research, workshops and performances. 11am & 12:15pm. Free. Children’s Garden, Yerba Buena Gardens 799 Howard St. San Francisco, 415-543-1718, www. ybgfestival.org
A Group for Parents of Struggling Teens
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)
Alameda County Fair — Pleasanton plans accepted
14 | Thursday 2961 Summit Street, Oakland, CA 94609 Third Thursday Piedmont Call Today Stroll —Piedmont
Working families may be eligible for WIC!
Tonsillitis Snoring
16 | Saturday
15 | Friday This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
PP EB MAR 2014_1-16.26rm.indd 11
17 | Sunday— Father’s Day
Fan Friday A’s Game & Fireworks—Oakland Watch the Athletics take on the Angels then enjoy a post game fireworks show. 6:35 p.m. Free with game admission. All Ages. Oakland Coliseum 7000 Coliseum Way, Oakland. www.oakland.athletics. mlb.com
Father’s Day at Oakland Zoo—Oakland
Fathers get to ride the train for free on Father’s Day. Take a stroll to the Lion Deck, check out the Alligator exhibit, or see the Chimpanzees. Father’s Day at Oakland Zoo is a great way to surprise Dad with a gift he will never forget. All day. Free with admission. All Ages. Oakland Zoo 9777 Golf Links Road, Oakland, www.oaklandzoo.org
Love learning.
Education is a lifelong commitment At Quarry Lane, we are passionate about instilling an authentic love for learning in our students. We offer a rigorous, balanced, college preparatory academic program to students entering Jr. Kindergarten through grade 12, with a distinct emphasis on the disciplines of science, engineering and technology.
®
Experience the Quarry Lane difference.
Our graduates have been accepted at these and other top universities: Columbia, Princeton, U.C. Berkeley, Duke, Cornell, Dartmouth, N.Y.U., Georgetown, Stanford, Purdue, Drexel, Rice, U.C.L.A., Northwestern, Georgia Tech, University of Chicago, U.S.C. and more.
The
NOW ENROLLING Inquire online or call to schedule a tour today!
Quarry Lane School
A Private Jr. K - 12 College Preparatory School
26 Parents’ Press | May / June 2018
6363 Tassajara Rd. Dublin 925.829.8000 QuarryLane.org
An independent school in Oakland, California serving Kindergarten-8th grade. PARKDAYSCHOOL.ORG | 360 42ND STREET OAKLAND CA 94609 | 510-653-0317
18 | Monday Alameda County Fair — Pleasanton Fair Favorites will be back including horseracing, exhibits, animals, food, rides, games, pig races, Kids’ Park & STEAM Weekends, special event days and more. A complete schedule is available on the Fair’s website. Thru 7/8. 11 a.m. -11 p.m. $8.00-$50.00, under 5 free. All Ages. Alameda County Fairgrounds 4501 Pleasanton Ave., Pleasanton, www.alamedacountyfair. com
19 | Tuesday Oakland Coliseum Ballpark Tours— Oakland Home of Moneyball! Take a tour of areas of the ballpark that are usually not available to the public, such as the Press Box, Owners Suite, Press Conference Room, Dugouts and Visitors’ Clubhouse. Cameras welcome! Tours are available on predetermined dates and times through the end of July. 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. $20/adults, 10 and under $15, 2 and under free Oakland Coliseum 7000 Coliseum Way, Oakland m.mlb.com/athletics/tickets/tours/ coliseum-tours
20 | Wednesday Toddler Time— Emeryville Friends from Dance-A-Vision creates a new afternoon of activity focused towards kids between the ages of 3 years old to five years old. Bay Street welcomes parents and their children for an afternoon of fun, fun, fun. 12-1:30 p.m. Ages 3-5. Bay Street Emeryville. 510-655-4002, www. baystreetemeryville.com
Dance With Me — Berkeley Shawl-Anderson Dance Center’s Dance with Me class is for walkers through age 4 and their caretakers. Children and adults will dance, sing, play movement games and enjoy props for this fun filled 45 minute class. This class repeats every Wednesday. 9 a.m.-9:45 a.m. and 10 a.m.-10:45 a.m. $16 per child. Ages walking-4 years. Shawl-Anderson Dance Center, 2704 Alcatraz Ave., Berkeley. 510-654-592, www.shawl-anderson.org
23 | Saturday Walk in the Wild —Oakland The East Bay Zoological Society presents Oakland Zoo’s 25th Annual Walk in the Wild: An Epicurean Escapade! Don’t miss the fundraising event of the year - filled with live music, delicious food and drinks, and so much more. 5:00 p.m. $175. Adults only. Oakland Zoo 9777 Golf Links Road, Oakland, www. oaklandzoo.org
Montclair Fine Arts Sidewalk Festival — Oakland This festival is located in the hills of Oakland in the Montclair Village Shopping District (on Mountain Blvd. at La Salle), continues to be among the most popular community events showcasing 90 artists from all over the Western United States. Repeats Sunday. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free. All Ages. Montclair Village Shopping District (on Mountain Blvd. at La Salle) 510.339.1000 www.Montclairvillage.com
Italian Street Painting Marin’s Summer of Love— San Rafael Italian Street Painting Marin is excited to celebrate this far-out occasion through the captivating art of street
HACIENDA SCHOOL
grand lake Montessori eleMentary Sig n up o a to ur tondline fo r ay !
Cultivating Astonishing Potential!
1st through 6th grades multi-age classroom 466 Chetwood, oakland, Ca (510) 836-4313
www.grandlakemontessori.Com
• Individualized, self-paced, Montessori curriculum • Emphasis on personal goal setting and time management • Foreign languages, art, and music included for all students • Cultivation of thinking skills and personal values • Year-round, full-day program for grades 1-8 CALL FOR A PRIVATE TOUR (925) 485-5750
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
May / June 2018 | Parents’ Press 27
EST. 1969
THE ACADEMY SCHOOL Kindergarten - 8th Grade Elmwood Neighborhood, Berkeley Rich and Rigorous Academics Small Class Sizes Warm and Nurturing Environment Experienced Master Teachers Diverse and Inclusive Community
Now Accepting Applications www.theacademyschool.org 510.549.0605
painting and music with Summer of Love. Repeats Sunday. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. All Ages. Downtown San Rafael 5th Ave & A St., San Rafael, www. italianstreetpaintingmarin.org
24 | Sunday Ice Cream & Gelato Tour— Rockridge Satisfy your sweet tooth with the Rockridge Ice Cream Tour! This one-hour guided walking tour takes kids of all ages through Oakland’s Rockridge area to explore a variety of ice cream desserts—along with a little history as to how we came to enjoy them. Please book a reservation online. 3 p.m.- 4 p.m. $20 adults, $15 kids 12 and under. All ages. Rockridge District, Oakland. 510-604-6546, www. rockridgefoodtour.com
25 | Monday Oakland Coliseum Ballpark Tours— Oakland
What will you bring to the global community?
Home of Moneyball! Take a tour of areas of the ballpark that are usually not available to the public, such as the Press Box, Owners Suite, Press Conference Room, Dugouts and Visitors’ Clubhouse. Cameras welcome! Tours are available on predetermined dates and times through the end of July. 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. $20/adults, 10 and under $15, 2 and under free Oakland Coliseum 7000 Coliseum Way, Oakland m.mlb.com/athletics/tickets/tours/ coliseum-tours
Shu Ren International School now offering the IB Primary and Middle Years Programs (Grades K-8)
27 | Wednesday Toddler Time— Emeryville Friends from Dance-A-Vision creates a new afternoon of activity focused towards kids between the ages of 3 years old to five years old. Bay Street welcomes parents and their children for an afternoon of fun, fun, fun. 12-1:30 p.m. Ages 3-5. Bay Street Emeryville. 510-655-4002, www. baystreetemeryville.com
29 | Friday Yerba Buena Gardens Festival: Unique Derique— San Francisco A beloved Bay Area institution, the Unique Derique is a prince among clowns, an internationally esteemed performer who has honed a singular blend of physical comedy and hambone body percussion. 11am & 12:15pm. Free. Children’s Garden, Yerba Buena Gardens 799 Howard St. San Francisco, 415-543-1718, www. ybgfestival.org
Alameda County Fair — Pleasanton Fair Favorites will be back including horseracing, exhibits, animals, food, rides, games, pig races, Kids’ Park & STEAM Weekends, special event days and more. A complete schedule is available on the Fair’s website. Thru 7/8. 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. $8.00-$50.00, under 5 free. All Ages. Alameda County Fairgrounds 4501 Pleasanton Ave., Pleasanton, www.alamedacountyfair.com
Mandarin Immersion in the heart of Berkley 510-423-0278 * Admissions@shurenschool.org * www.shurenschool.org
Inspiring students through fearless learning, service, and diversity.
St. Paul’s is an independent K-8 school located steps from Lake Merritt. Tours weekly • 510-285-9617 • www.spes.org
An Athenian education prepares students for a life of purpose and personal fulfillment 75-acre campus of rolling, oak-covered hills lies at the base of Mt. Diablo in Danville, CA just 32 miles East of San Francisco. Athenian buses transport students to and from many East Bay communities.
Life is an adventure of intellectual exploration and meaningful contribution.
2100 Mt. Diablo Scenic Blvd • Danville • 925-837-5375 • www.athenian.org
28 Parents’ Press | May / June 2018
Getaways Mendocino with Kids WHAT TO DO WITH THE KIDS IN MENDOCINO? There are far more options in this area than one might expect. We focused on activities that our 8-year-old and 11-year-old would be interested in. Here’s what we recommend:
1
View from Botanical Gardens
S
earching for your next memorable family vacation destination, sans airfare? You might not think Mendocino Coast, with its quaint bedand-breakfasts and cozy white-tablecloth restaurants, is a kid-friendly destination, but if you look a little deeper, there is a bounty of family-friendly activities, restaurants and lodging to make it a memorable, world-class family vacation. Mendocino beckons with rugged beaches and breathtaking sunsets at any time of year, but spring, fall and winter are especially wonderful times. Long weekends during these times are a treat, with clear skies, no fog and no crowds. Summer is also nice, but it is traditionally the busiest and most crowded time of the year, and what is normally a three-hour drive north of the Bay Area can become a long and arduous march. When you have the littles in the car, that can make for a long day.
Little River Inn is a welcome and
family-friendly respite after the drive. Fifth-generation owners Cally and Marc Dym, who are parents of younger kids themselves, have magically set up this historic inn to be, both a romantic getaway sans kids as well, as a comfortable place for families and their four-legged companions. The staff is very friendly and welcoming. The grounds are beautifully maintained. And there is lots of room for the kids to work off some of their extra energy while the adults relax on the ocean-view deck, which accompanies each of the 65 rooms, with a lovely glass of Mendocino sauvignon blanc before heading down to dinner. At first, for parents of active and boisterous kids, the cozy romantic dining room setting at the Little River Inn restaurant, with white tablecloths, can be a little disconcerting. But the dining room quickly filled up and we soon blended in with the rest of the patrons and the low hum of the dinner crowd. The waitstaff is terrific and was very accommodating to our needs. The extensive kids menu was a dream for our picky little eaters! For the adults, it does not disappoint. Owner/chef Marc Dym provides a perfect synergy between locally sourced delicacies and world-class preparation methods. As parents, we were able to enjoy a relaxed and elegant dinner and dessert because the way the hotel rooms are situated, the kids were able to go back to the room when they were ready. The staff is so accommodating. There is even a special separate dining room where you can dine with your family and pooch and still get the full experience. Other features of the Little River Inn include a full spa, golf course and tennis courts. It’s a perfect option for meetings and family reunions. www.LittleRiverInn.com
One of the most popular attractions in the area for families is a ride on the Skunk Train, named for the old smelly historic trains. Today’s trains do not have this issue. There are two ride options: a one-hour scenic round-trip ride along the Pudding Creek Estuary, with views of wildlife, beautiful forests and several train bridges that cross Pudding Creek, or a four-hour round trip on the Northspur Flyer out of Willits for the true train enthusiast. Trains are kidand dog-friendly and offer a snack bar. Skunktrain.com
2
Mendocino Coast Model Railroad (Fort Bragg)
Hold on to your Skunk Train ticket. The ticket will give you free access to the amazing G-scale model railroad just steps away from the Skunk Trains. Volunteers open this setup to the public when the Skunk Train is running. The layout of the model train railway depicts what the logging railroad might have looked like around 1925–1940. My children were fascinated with the inner workings, bridges, crossovers and buildings at this model. The volunteers who run the trains were very happy to discuss their work and educate the kids on the purpose and history of the logging trains. www.mendorailhistory.org
3
Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens (Fort Bragg)
One of the few botanical gardens that are situated oceanfront, this botanical garden is a must-see. With over 47 acres of botanical bliss, a beautiful stroll to the ocean’s edge for whale watching and birding, and a plethora of beautiful garden sculptures, kids, adults and dogs alike will enjoy this vast and open space. Follow the Fairy Trail to discover fairy dwellings and other surprises. Pet and stroller friendly. www.gardenbythesea.org
4
Sea Glass Museum (Fort Bragg)
Thousands of sea-glass shards, collected globally, are organized according
© FRANK SCHULENBURG
The Skunk Train (Fort Bragg and Willets)
The Point Cabrillo Lighthouse to color, age and type. It’s history through beachcombing. Plan on about a 30-minute stay. www.GlassBeachJewelry.com
5 Glass Beach
After visiting the Sea Glass Museum, head north up the road to Glass Beach. Glass Beach, the site of a city dumpsite in the early 1900s, is rich with sea glass that was created by waves slowly pounding the trash over the years. Over the years many tourists have taken the glass, so the beach is not as bountiful as it was in prior years, but it still is worth a short visit. Best time to visit is low tide and after a storm. www.fortbragg.com/glass-beach/
7
The Point Cabrillo Lighthouse
On Point Cabrillo Drive off Highway One between Mendocino and Fort Bragg. Explore this working aid to navigation. There is a half-mile downhill walk to get to the station (uphill on the way back), which is home to the original Chance Brothers classic third order Fresnel lens. Hike on the waterfront trails with chances to see whales, seals and dolphins, and visit the museum. Overnight accommodations are available. Dogs are welcomed on leash. pointcabrillo.org
8 B. Bryan Preserve
Located in Point Arena, this is Africa on the Mendocino Coast. This private preserve for endangered African hoof animals hosts two-hour Jeep tours on weekends. Reservations required. Better for older Located in Fort Bragg, this aquatic children. center has a water park with a lazy river, bbryanpreserve.com a waterslide (must be 48” tall to ride) and fountains to play in. On weekends from 1-4pm there is a kids beach swim available. www.mendocoastrec.org
6
CV Starr Aquatic Center
Best Beaches Van Damme State Beach
Located at Little River right on Highway One, this beach is a safe and shallow cove with gentle wave breaks. On windy or colder days head to the protected northern end of the beach. At low tide the tide pools at the south end are worth checking out.
Caspar Beach
Jug Handle State Preserve
Just north of Casper on Highway One you will find one of the best examples of an ecological staircase in the Western Hemisphere. This is a great educational science hike for older kids. Be sure to pick up the guide in the parking lot, which explains everything.
More in Mendocino Mendocino Headlands State Park:
This beach is located on Point Cabrillo Drive off Highway One. It is fairly well protected from wind, and the sand is soft. The large beach makes it easy to keep little ones away from the waves and is good for rock- and tide pooling during low tide.
347 acres of raw seashore surrounding Mendocino Village, studded with rugged surf and rocky protuberances and two beaches, Big River Beach and Portuguese Beach. www.Parks.Ca.gov
Big River Beach
Russian Gulch State Park: Rugged
Best Hikes The Haul at Big River
Kelley House Museum: Built
Go past the beach parking lot and you will find a flat, straight, easy walk into the redwoods. Stroller friendly.
in 1861 and set amid Victorian-style gardens, this historic former home of a successful Mendocino businessman is now headquarters for regional history. www. KelleyHouseMuseum.org
Pygmy Forest
Kwan Tai Temple: This authentic Taoist
Located just north of the bridge in Mendocino, this is the most popular beach, with lots of activity, surfing, volleyball, etc. The river side is often warmer. Just be careful of potentially strong currents.
You will find Pygmy Forest 3 miles up Little River Airport Road. There is a wooden walkway with educational signage about Pygmy Forest. The walkway is good for little legs and strollers.
Russian Gulch Creek Canyon is a woodsy wonderland, complete with a towering waterfall cascading down to a beach that is safe for swimming, fishing and tide pooling. www.Parks.Ca.gov
shrine has been in continuous use since it was built by a Chinese laborer who arrived in a junk during the gold rush. www. KwanTaiTemple.org
May / June 2018 | Parents’ Press 29
ALL N EW! Summer @ Stratford
Discover where the Extraordinary begins Stratford School infuses its STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) curriculum into an innovative and enriching summer camp experience for children in Preschool through Middle School.
Camp Sessions June 18 – August 10
O
30 Parents’ Press | May / June 2018
LS
S
GE
Accrediting Commission for Schools
O
LE
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.
ASSOCIAT I
OF
WE S
RN
ON
TE
Explore Summer@Stratford StratfordSchools.com/summer-camp AND CO
L