WWW.PARENTSPRESS.COM
January 2021
pg. 16
pg. 18
pg. 22
8 TIPS for Keeping Kids Healthy All Winter
PRODUCT ROUND-UP
pg. 8
POST-HOLIDAY TOY OVERLOAD
pg. 10
WE LOVE IT! Toys, Games and More
pg. 12
PS CAMPUS
PS HOME
At Prospect Sierra, whether on campus or at home, w and caring people who strive to build a better w
prospectsie 2
Parents Press | January 2021
ProspectSierra_15x10_25_R2.indd 1
Bay Area Green Business - NAIS Model School of the Future - Ashoka Chang
PS JOY
me, we help your children become successful students tter world. At the heart of everything we do is joy.
ctsierra.org
ka Changemaker School - US Department of Education Green Ribbon School
Parents’ Press
2020
BEST OF
WINNER 3 January 2021 | ParentsPress.com
23/07/2020 12.25
Contents
www.parentspress.com
JANUARY 2021
Volume 40 • Number 5
Summer Camp Adventure 16
It’s never too early to start planning for summer fun!
16 3 Reasons That Camp is Crucial in 2021 18 10 Questions to Ask When Starting Your Camp Search 20 Day Camp or Overnight Camp? 22 5 Life Lessons Learned at Camp ...AND MORE
6
10
12 Mailing Address 875-A Island Dr, Ste 421, Alameda, CA 94502
6 Good to Know
• 2021 Virtual Camp and Summer Expo • Celebrating Dr. King • Keeping Kids Healthy All Winter
10 Post-Holiday Toy Overload How to Unclutter the Toys 12 Product Round-up Toys, Games and More 4
Parents Press | January 2021
Publisher | Parenting Media, Inc. Art Director | Debbi Murzyn Account Managers Carol Flores, Sophie Archer Advertising Sales & General Info sales@parentspress.com Copies of Parents’ Press are distributed to locations throughout the Bay Area. Send letters to the editor to editor@parentspress.com Calendar submissions are due six weeks prior to publication date. Send calendar information to calendar@ parentspress.com
Parents’ Press is published monthly. ©2021 Parents’ Press
January 2021 | ParentsPress.com
5
Good to Know LOOKING FOR A SUMMER CAMP?
TOP BABY
L
Names in 2020
iam and Charlotte top the list of the most popular baby names in 2020, according to BabyNames. com. Here’s the top baby names from ssa.gov. MALE
Don’t miss the Parents Press Bay Area 2020 Virtual Camp & Summer Expo on Feb. 20. This year we are doing a virtual program for camps. Please register to receive you customized package of camp information:http://parentspress.com/summercamp-expo.html
New Learning Tools from National Geographic Society
D
uring a time of immense disruption in the education space, parents are looking for innovative ways to engage with and educate their children from home. In response, the National Geographic Society developed a Learn Anywhere Family Guide that connects parents and families with innovative resources and materials to keep children, of all ages, engaged while learning continues in a socially distant world. The Learn Anywhere site has tons of free resources
6
Parents Press | January 2021
including Explorer Classroom, a live YouTube show that connects young learners with Explorers around the world where they can interact in real-time and ask questions about their work. These resources are a wonderful way to keep students engaged outside of the classroom. Natgeoed.org/ learnanywhere
FEMALE 1. Olivia 1. Liam 2. Emma 2. Noah 3. Ava 3. Oliver 4. Sophia 4. William 5. Isabella 5. Elijah 6. Charlotte 6. James 7. Benjamin 7. Amelia 8. Mia 8. Lucas 9. Harper 9. Mason 10. Evelyn 10. Ethan
Celebrating Dr. King
W
hile legislation was signed in 1983 to create the federal holiday to mark the birthday of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., it wasn’t until 1994 that Congress designated the date as a national day of service. Their slogan is it’s a “day on, not a day off.” Americans of all ages are encouraged to do good in honor of Dr. King’s vision for a united community.
BENTLEY SCHOOL CHARACTER - PURPOSE - COMMUNITY
he
C
elebrating 100 years of educational excellence, Bentley School is a nationally recognized K-12 community. Our exceptional teachers inspire intellectual curiosity and a joy for learning. We empower students to build strength of character and to lead lives of purpose. Learn more and arrange a visit: www.bentleyschool.org/admissions Oakland (K-8): 510.843.2512 Lafayette (9-12): 925.283.2101 January 2021 | ParentsPress.com
7
Good to Know
8 TIPS for Keeping Kids Healthy All Winter
W
hat parent doesn’t want to arm themselves with some extra protective health rituals during cold and flu season? Cold weather and shorter days mean spreading germs around the close quarters we share with our families and then inhaling the general populations’ viruses and mucus whenever we leave the house! So short of not breathing or moving to a warmer and more humid climate where the influenza virus isn’t as happy, what can you really do to keep your kids healthy? Make sure everyone has their flu shot (No-September’s not too early, and Yes-January is still better late than never), remember your own self-care is an integral part of parenting, then give your kids an immunity boost with these practical tips!
1. Maintain Routine Keep sleep and mealtime rhythms consistent, regardless of what they may be. Following cyclical patterns that repeat regularly allow every system in the human body to stay in balance and assimilate, absorb, and utilize food for optimal nourishment.
2. Go Out and Play Getting bundled up and outdoors
in wintertime is invigorating for mind and body, essential for exercise and reducing lethargy, and the perfect time to soak up some sunshine and increase those falling vitamin D levels naturally so you don’t end up with decreased winter immunity and a deficiency in March.
3. Aromatherapy Stimulating and spicy aromas
promote overall well-being and are the perfect antidote to cabin fever and too many snow days. A few drops of essential oils like juniper, clove, and orange in a home diffuser will go a long way. Or surprise your kids with a fizzy bath bomb or scented shower tablet! Want to add a little more life and style to your home? Grab some eucalyptus leaves next time you visit your local florist and scatter them in vases to naturally scent rooms throughout your house.
8
Parents Press | January 2021
By Alyson Gregory
4. Wash Hands You know why. The research is irrefut-
able—this is the single most effective way to protect your kids from getting or spreading infections and illnesses. So pick a song they should hum while lathering up and scrubbing underneath their fingernails if they need a refresher course, and don’t forget to dry: damp hands spread a thousand times more germs than dry ones according to research.
5. Humidify the Air Studies show the flu virus thrives in
cold, dry air and that humidity levels above 40% will actually deactivate influenza virus particles. Humidifying the air at home can decrease chances of infection, make the air feel warmer inside, and replace some much needed moisture to heal those cracked lips your kids keep licking!
6. Spice Things Up According to Ayurveda, adding winter
warming herbs and spices like ginger, clove, turmeric, fennel, or cinnamon to porridges and hearty soups and stews will boost immunity, cut down on mucous production, and keep the digestive fire burning strong. Ayurvedic spiced milks before bedtime are deeply nourishing, promote sleep, and the perfect way to treat your child before bed.
7. Hydrate Tired of finding your child’s water bottle full at
the end of the school day? Making sure your kids stay hydrated is all-important in wintertime when dehydration can be less noticeable, but can be challenging during the week. Try herbal teas like peppermint at breakfast or as part of an after-school snack to boost fluid intake, and enjoy a little quality time preparing them together!
8. Ditch the Ice Avoid anything iced as it extinguishes
agni, or your digestive fire. According to Ayurveda, once this happens, there is not a strong enough “fire” to properly digest food and transform into the deep nourishment that kids especially need. So, ditch the ice in those smoothies, drink fluids warm or at room temperature, and replace treats like ice cream with a homemade or best ingredient baked good! ²
Going to the Dentist should be FUN!
Onli n In-pe e & rson Clas ses
Join class from home! Out-of-town family welcome, too! Save a spot for your family in one of our award-winning music classes for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, big kids—and the grownups who love them®. GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE First responder or healthcare worker? Email info@eastbaymusictogether.com for a THANK YOU coupon.
Aloha Pediatric Dentistry | 3 East Bay Locations 2640 Telegraph Avenue #101, Berkeley | (510) 848-6494 3010 Colby Street # 117, Berkeley, CA 94705 | (510) 528-1546 3 Altarinda Road #210, Orinda | (925) 253-8190 AlohaKidsDDS.com
EastBayMusicTogether.com (510) 848-SING
2bd/2ba Condo Vacation Rental www.VRBO.com/439343 South Kihei Maui, Hawaii tbusson1@yahoo.com
Real Patients, Real Smiles They’ve got a great dentist. • • • • •
cosmetic and general dentistry teeth whitening with Zoom! aesthetic restoration character teeth for stage and film dental implants
Single Visit Crowns
Thank you Alameda for voting us the best dentist! BEST OF MAGAZINE
RICHARD TABOR, DDS 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2012
Your Maui Home
510.865.2900 • www.AlamedaDentist.com 1821 Santa Clara Avenue • Alameda January 2021 | ParentsPress.com
9
• • • HOW TO HANDLE • • •
Post-Holiday Toy Overload By Laura Weiler
T
he holidays are filled with celebration, food, family... and toys. So. Many. Toys. If dolls, Legos, art supplies, and games have taken over your house, fear not—it can be reclaimed! As a mom of two girls and someone who organizes other people’s homes for a living, I have seen lots of playrooms, bedrooms, and living rooms that are overrun with toys. And I’ve noticed that having too many choices seems to overwhelm kids. It’s more fun to play when there’s space to spread out. And you’d probably enjoying sitting down in your living room without seeing toys strewn about. So how do you unclutter the toys?
REMOVE TOYS YOUR KIDS HAVE OUTGROWN. If they’ve aged past it, it’s time to go. If it’s an absolute treasure worth saving for future grandkids, pack well and move to the attic. Anything else can be passed on to friends or family with younger kids, the library or doctor’s office, or donated to charity.
LOOK FOR TOYS WITH BROKEN PIECES AND MISSING PARTS. Game or puzzle missing multiple pieces? Headless Barbie doll? Car with three wheels? Say goodbye. When you have a surplus of toys, broken ones are unlikely to be played with.
LOOK FOR THINGS THAT NEVER GET USED. If it never leaves the shelf, it probably won’t be missed.
INVOLVE THEM IN THE PROCESS—OR DON’T. If your kids are old enough and receptive, ask them to choose things to donate. Knowing their rarely used toys will make another kid happy can be really motivating. Or maybe your kids don’t want to part with anything, played with or not...it’s very common! If that’s your situation, declutter when they’re not home, or sleeping, to make it less of a battle.
ROTATE TOYS. This works best for babies, toddlers and preschoolers. Instead of all toys out all the time, split them in half and after a couple weeks swap them out. It’s almost like getting new toys, but your house stays uncluttered.
10
Parents Press | January 2021
CREATE A TEMPORARY HOME IF YOU’RE UNSURE ABOUT GETTING RID OF SOMETHING. If you’re worried your kids might miss something you declutter, move it out of sight. If they ask, get it out—but if they don’t mention the toy in the time frame you determine (1 month, 3 months, etc.), pass it on.
THINK OF CRAFTS AS AN EXPERIENCE AND NOT SOMETHING THAT MUST BE SAVED FOR ETERNITY. Craft kits are great...until there’s a year’s worth of slime, jewelry, and painted rocks in your living room. The fun is in making the craft—they’re not all keepers. Ask your kids to choose a few favorites to keep...or smuggle things out under the cover of darkness once they’re asleep. You can always take a picture of it first.
MAKE IT EASY FOR KIDS TO CLEAN UP—AND KNOW WHERE THINGS BELONG. Think about classrooms and day cares. Every single toy, game, art supply, etc. has a home, and when kids finish using it, that’s where it goes. The shelves, bins, etc. are labeled so everyone knows where things belong. Kids play with one thing, then clean it up before switching activities so the mess doesn’t get too big. You can use these strategies at home—I use them when I organize toys. Though I’ll admit the “clean up as you go” part is MUCH harder to implement at home... Sort the toys (i.e. Barbie dolls, baby dolls, Legos, Magna-Tiles) and designate a container for each category. Label it—if your kids aren’t reading yet, use pictures. Sturdy plastic bins can be cleaned, labeled, and easily carried around. Woven baskets are a great way to camouflage toys kept in the living room. Tossing toys into a bin is an easy way to clean up. It’s the rare kid who will color-code their Legos at clean-up time—keep it simple and you’re more likely to get them on board. So there you have it! Declutter those toys and enjoy easier clean up and a neater house.
² Laura Weiler is a home organizer and founder of An Organized Start
Dedicated to finding you the perfect nanny! Servicing the entire East Bay for over 20 years! No fee unless nanny is placed! – Full and part time – permanent nanny placement – All candiates – personally screened
Berkeley City Ballet berkeleycityballet.org
Phone 925.743.0587 www.nannyconnection.com
Ages 2 and up Boys ballet Dance camps Birthday parties State-of-the-art studios Sprung floors Easy parking Easy online registration and payment
Enrolling Now 2021 online & in-studio classes now available
More info: AlamedaBallet.com | admin@alamedaballet.com
photo : andy mogg
January 2021 | ParentsPress.com
11
Product Roundup By Elena Epstein, Director of the National Parenting Product Awards
GROOVY WUBBLE It looks like a bubble and plays like a ball. Kick it, whack it, throw it, bounce it – even sit on it!  Squishy, squashy, super soft, lightweight and can be inflated to gnarly proportions in just minutes with the enclosed pump. $19.99 with pump, $12.99 without pump, ages 6+, www.wubbleball.com
MindLabs Energy and Circuits A magical STEM learning tool combining a digital app, physical cards, and augmented reality in a fun and exciting approach to learning core science concepts. $24.95, ages 8-11, www.exploremindlabs.com
12
Parents Press | January 2021
A B o b b w
A
A s f O B a W C a C w
B S
Evereden Foaming Baby Shampoo and Wash Pediatrician created to be safe enough for a newborn, from head to toe. Features naturally-derived oat amino acids that function as an ultra-gentle yet efficacious surfactant to cleanse. Hydrates and calms skin with coconut juice and coconut water. $17, ages newborn+, www.ever-eden.com
L
In KidZ AMERICA BOX, BLACK HISTORY EDITION Full of interactive activities and games to expand kids learning. Part of an educational subscription series box. $50/monthly OR $49/per box, ages 2-11, www.inkidzco.com
For more product reviews visit nappaawards.com
H t u l g l 1 w c T c w k
Product Roundup
LASER X REVOLUTION A laser tag arena in your own backyard! Blast opponents up to 300’ away – inside or out, in darkness or bright sunlight. Blaster beams go through windows and strategically bounce off walls and mirrors. $39.99, ages 6+, www.getlaserx.com
A Little Something For Baby
Matatalab Coding Set (Home Edition) Kids can create simple programs by combining tangible blocks and controlling the robot to complete a challenge. Includes supporting storybooks, free online courses and activity videos. $149, ages 4-7, Matatalab Coding Set (Home Edition)
Preschool Label Pack
A bundle of travelsized organic herbal favorites including Organic Diaper Balm, Sweet Orange Castile Baby Wash and Lotion, Calendula Baby Oil and Organic Baby Face Nose & Cheek Balm. $25.99, birth+, www.earthmamaorganics.com
This selection of 34 personalized labels are ultradurable and will help stop the spread of germs by always ensuring that your little one’s things do not get mixed up or misplaced. $21.00, www.mabelslabels.com
Babily UV Sterilizer
Loop Lab STEM Subscription
Harnesses the power of ultraviolet light to kill germs in less than 11 minutes without chemicals. The built-in viewing window gives your family confidence that the powerful UV-C bulb is at work, sterilizing bottles, pacifiers, cell phones, keys and more. $159, www.mybabily.com
We know Mad Science from fun after-school enrichment programs and now you can bring home the hands-on experiments with their new STEM subscription boxes. Different theme for each box include Gross Science, Spy Science and Senseational Science. $32.99/ box, ages 8-12, www.shop. madscience.com ²
For more product reviews visit nappaawards.com
January 2021 | ParentsPress.com
13
Fearless, We
COMMU
Find out more at 14
Parents Press | January 2021
, We Pursue
MUNITY
e at shcp.edu/visit January 2021 | ParentsPress.com
15
Camps and Summer Programs 2021
3 Reasons That Camp is Crucial in 2021 By Bud Copeland Director of Membership & Engagement, American Camp Association With that in mind, here are three reminders of why camp is crucial in 2021.
1
S
ince 1861, countless children and young adults from across the country have called camps throughout New England “home” for the summer. Unfortunately, that was not possible for too many in 2020. Camp in New England has faced unprecedented challenges before. Each time, true to the brand, camps and the professionals who run them have shown resilience, and they are eager to take what we’ve learned this year and prepare for a successful run in 2021. Michele Rowcliffe, Executive Director of the American Camp Association, New England, sees camp as crucial to helping campers, staff and families thrive moving forward, “Because of the pandemic, young people face unique challenges to their mental and emotional well-being in ways we’re not used to. Camp has always been a safe place for personal development, overcoming challenges, making friends and trying something new. On the heels of such disruption in 2020, camp is exactly what we need in 2021.” 16
Parents Press | January 2021
Soft Skills: Talk to
any camp director, and they’ll tell you the wonderful stories of success they’ve witnessed over the years for both campers and staff. You’ll hear about beating homesickness, learning new skills, or meeting someone from a totally different state or country. These experiences lead to increased confidence, resilience and independence, and the American Camp Association’s 5-Year Camp Impact Study can back that up with their phase II findings. According to the study, the following are the most essential and lasting outcomes of the camp experience: improved relationship skills, independence and responsibility, appreciation for living in the moment, perseverance, and willingness to try new things. Any potential teacher, coach or employer would love that profile.
2 Opportunity:
From lockdowns to quarantines, many are suffering from COVID fatigue and champing at the bit for a chance to get out and play! When the time comes, whether focusing on a single, specialty activity or looking for a general experience, camp provides opportunities to hone skills and try new things. There aren’t too many homes with archery ranges or pottery kilns or climbing towers, so camp gives children the chance to play and
explore in ways and with friends not usually available at home.
is healthy for 3 Camp the whole family:
In 2020, we all hunkered down and enjoyed more quality time together than probably most of us had in quite a while. That said, time apart is also critical for healthy development, and camp can play a role. We know how important and impactful camp is for the camper and counselor, but what about the family NOT at camp. Camp is an important element in their development too. It’s difficult to relax when sending children away for a day, week, month, summer. But by sending campers and counselors to play and work at ACA, Accredited camps, families create healthy, safe opportunities for families to grow while spending time apart. ²
For more information about camps, contact the American Camp Association or visit www.aca.org.
JUST WHEN YOU THOUGHT THINGS WERE GETTING BAD, CHILDREN CAME TO THE RESCUE. The Child Unique Montessori School and Montessori Elementary Intermediate School of Alameda
Where changemakers are created to effect change. Since 1956
ES
T
Holy Names High School
A
HOL Y
OL HO
ES HIGH S C AM N
2226 Encinal Ave., Alameda 510.521.0595 office@thechildunique.org www.thechildunique.org
18
68
OA K L A
,C ND
January 2021 | ParentsPress.com
17
Camps and Summer Programs 2021
TEN Questions to Ask
S
When Starting Your Camp Search 3 8
election a camp for your child can be exciting. You know that camp is the right choice. But now you need to figure out which camp is the right choice. The following is a list of questions designed to help you steer your search:
1
Is the camp Accredited by the American Camp Association? What other regulations or licenses does the camp follow?
2
What kind of training does the staff receive on safety, supervision, mental health awareness, problem solving, and other areas pertinent to working with children?
Is the price all-inclusive, or are there extra charges for uniforms, specialty programs, transportation, tee shirts & trips?
Can you provide references that I may contact?
Is transportation available and what are the specifics?
Is before/after camp care available? If so, who cares for the children, and what activities are offered? Is there an additional cost?
4 5
How does your camp handle special diet or physical needs?
6
In what way may I communicate with my child while they are at camp? With the staff?
7
Are there family visiting days?
18
Parents Press | January 2021
IF LOOKING AT A DAY CAMP:
9
10
Are meals provided? At what cost? ²
For more information about camp including helpful tips on finding the right camp, contact the American Camp Association or visit www.aca.org.
Currently accepting applications for TK-grade 5
Spanish, Art, Music and P.E. • Multimedia Computer Lab • Event Center/Gym • Science Lab • Music Room • High Test Scores Please call 510-457-1488 to schedule a time to discuss the admission process
If
Saint Theresa School
²
4850 Clarewood Drive • Oakland 510-547-3146 • www.sttheresaschool.org
Be curious. Be inspired. Be yourself. Berkeley’s Only Independent Discover why families have been returningCollege Preparatory High School
he
for generations.
Discover why families
PRESCHOOL THROUGH 8TH GRADE
TRANSITIONAL KINDERGARTEN THROUGH 8TH GRADE have been returning
Since 1972
for generations.
Parents’ Press
TRANSITIONAL KINDERGARTEN THROUGH 8TH GRADE
2020
BEST OF TOP 5
Parents’ Press
2020
BEST OF TOP 5
INFORMATION NIGHTS • Dec 1, 2016 and Jan 11, 2017 • 7PM 2727 College Avenue Connected Community, ed learning OPEN HOUSE • Diversifi Jan 29, 2017 • 10:15 AM – 12: 15 PM www.maybeckhs.org Virtual School Available INFORMATION NIGHTS •TOURS DecTours 1, 2016 and Jan call 11, 2017 • 7PM a tour TUESDAY • Please to schedule
(510) 841-8489
INFORMATION NIGHTS • Dec Jan 27 OPN HOUSE • Jan 29, 2017 • 10:15 AM3,– Jan 12: 1513 PMand TUESDAY RSVP: spnadmissions@csdo.org TOURS • Please callschool.spnalameda.org to schedule a tour facebook.com/saintphilipnerischool 1335 High Street, Alameda, CA 94501
school.spnalameda.org • facebook.com/saintphilipnerischool 1335 High Street, Alameda, CA 94501 • 510-521-0787
510-521-0787
For event information, contact maybeckhs.org/admissions January 2021 | ParentsPress.com
NERI 2008.indd 1
7/27/20 3:01 PM
19
Camps and Summer Programs 2021
Day Camp or Over-night Camp?
Should They Stay or Should They Go?
D
eciding between day camp or residential (overnight) camp is one piece of the decision for families. Camp is an experience and not limited to a singular location. Campers can develop the same skills, both hard and soft, whether they’re sleeping away from home or returning to their own beds each night. While there are differences between day and residential camps, above all else, the most important outcome of this decision is finding the right fit for your camper and family. This begins with knowing your camper. Many overnight 20
Parents Press | January 2021
camps begin taking campers between ages 7-9 years old. However, some children may be ready at 6 and some others may not be ready at 10. While there is no clear, linear checklist to determine whether day or overnight camp is right for your child, the following questions can help guide that conversation: • What is the primary reason for wanting to go to camp? • Has your child ever spent multiple nights sleeping away from home? • What’s your budget for camp? • Can your child bath and dress themselves independently? • How far away from home do you want your child’s camp experience to be?
• What activities are important to your camper’s experience? These questions can help begin a dialogue with your family about which camp experience is the best fit for you. The choice of day versus residential camp is one important aspect of the overall decision. But even then, make sure you follow up with those potential camps. Talk to directors. Ask for tours. Ask for references. Do your due diligence. In the end both you and the camp want this summer to be the first of many and the beginning of a great relationship. ² For more information about camp and the benefits of the camp experience, contact the American Camp Association or visit www.aca.org.
CHATHAM SCHOOL
FUN CHILD-CENTERED PRESCHOOL
Chatham SChool
F4500 un Redwood Child-C entered PreSChool Road 4359 39th Avenue Oakland, CA Road 94619 4500 Redwood Lic#013418176 Oakland, CA 94619 Lic#013418177
Oakland, CA 94619 4359 39th Avenue Lic#01341436 Oakland, CA 94619
013418177 6 mo.Lic# - Kindergarten (35mo. 1 0 )- Kindergarten 531-1302 fax: (510) 531-1301
2 yrs. - Kindergarten extended care 2 yrs. - Kindergarten
Lic#013418176
Lic#01341436
(510) 531-1534
(510) 531-1302
(510) 531-1534
• We do Potty Training • Snacks/Hot Lunch Time/Full Time am-6 pm We Part do Potty Training • 7:30 Snacks / Lunch Part Time / Full Time 7:30am - 6pm www.chathampreschool.com
www.chathampreschool.com
The Model School
Comprehensive Humanistic Learning Center
Infants • Toddlers • Preschool Multicultural, Multiethnic Environments • Se Habla Español!
A ministry of Bay Area Chinese Bible Church
- Friday 7am - 6pm A ministry of Monday Bay Area Chinese Bible Church lunch service provided
1803 North Loop Rd. Alameda, CA 94502
TTPreschoolalameda.org Facility # 013422027 Telephone # 510-995-5383 ext. 1336
We have availability for Toddlers and Preschoolers Flexible Scheduling Loving, Developmental, Child-Oriented Classrooms Year’round Enrollment, Reasonable Rates 2330 Prince Street, Berkeley, CA 94705 Lic. 010211122 & 010211112
Fax # 510-373-2241
(510) 549-2711
1803 North Loop Rd | Alameda | Facility # 013422027 kim.smith@bacbc.org 510-995-5383 ext. 1336 | kim.smith@bacbc.org
Dynamic Education The Optimizing Each Child’s Potential NOW ENROLLING FOR 2021 Child Day Schools, LLCCall for More Information • Language & Literacy • Math & Science • Problem Solving Parents’ • Art & Creativity Press BEST OF • Social Skills 2020 TOP 5 Low Ratios Highly Trained Teachers
FAMILY OPERATED SINCE 1976
www.t cdschools.com
Preschool • Pre-K • Jr.-K • Toddlers • Kindergarten • School Age ANTIOCH 925-754-0144 Lic# 073406638 073406639
SAN RAMON 925-820-2515 Lic# 073406846 073406845, 0734066634
PLEASANTON 925-462-1866
LAFAYETTE 925-284-7092
MORAGA 925-376-5110
Lic# 013420524 013420525
Lic# 073406632 073406633
Lic# 073406850 073406849 January 2021 | ParentsPress.com
21
Camps and Summer Programs 2021
5Learned Life Lessons at Camp
L
ife lessons. These are moments where the lightbulb goes off over child’s head. They understand the concept of two plus two. They see something they can’t un-see or learn something they’ll never forget. Over the last 150-plus years, camp has provided opportunities for children and adults to discover or further develop many life lessons. Here are just a few. IT’S ALL ABOUT RELATIONSHIPS. Life doesn’t exist in a vacuum and no one can do this alone. Just like a classroom, children have opportunities at camp to share experiences with peers, develop friendships, and learn the ups and downs of getting along with others. By the nature of co-existing in the same space and enjoying similar experiences, camp encourages children to develop and maintain skills necessary to relationship building. I CAN DO THAT! Confidence! Camp thrives on self-efficacy in young people. Enjoying success in a healthy manner and learning to overcome obstacles or even failure are hallmarks of a camp experience. For both campers and staff, camp allows young people to feel proud when things go well and encourages resilience when they don’t.
22
Parents Press | January 2021
TAKE A RISK. One way to build confidence is to try something new. Camp is rife with safe, healthy opportunities for children to take a chance. This could mean climbing a 30foot wall, trying out for the camp production of Peter Pan, riding a horse, or trying broccoli for the first time. At camp, young people learn how to take risks and learn from their outcomes. IT’S A GREAT BIG WORLD OUT THERE. When a child goes to camp, they interact with peers and adults from places they might have never seen or even heard of. Campers might hear a new song or accent. They may meet someone from another state or country, and sometimes they run into people from home who become lifelong friends at camp. Camp is an opportunity to both try new things and meet new people. NOT ALL LEARNING HAPPENS IN A CLASSROOM. Last but certainly not least, campers discover that school does not have a monopoly on learning. Campers develop new skills, learn about their own passions and interests, and are exposed to ideas and experiences that don’t normally sneak into a formal classroom. Without knowing it, campers are learning every day by simply getting out and going to camp. ² For more information about camp and the benefits of the camp experience, contact the American Camp Association or visit www.aca.org.
Montessori Children’s Center
If you could give your child one gift to last a lifetime, what would it be?
Full and half-day programs available Before and after school care Open 7am - 6pm
An Authentic Montessori Preschool and Kindergarten Lic #384001313
Serving children ages 2 - 6
Parents’ Press
www.nomurapreschool.com
Lic. #070209834
2020
BEST OF WINNER
80 Juan Bautista Circle | San Francisco | 415.333.4410 montessorichildrenscenter.org Enrolling now: a NEW Montessori school in Berkeley Ages 2.5-6 • Immediate start • Year-round
Our core ideals • • • • •
compassion and kindness supporting creativity building community passion for learning peace
• Ages 2-5 Years and Bridge K • Nurturing Academic Environment • Preparation for Kindergarten
• Two Expansive Campuses • Potty Training Available • Covid-19 Safety Protocols
Now Enrolling! Part/full/extended day available • Limited financial aid available 2008 McGee Ave • Berkeley • 510.679.5056 • www.littleelephant.net
1629 Carlson Blvd., Richmond Annex 94804
Admissions - 510-526-7847 ext.2
Offering a Year Round Academic Montessori Program Preschool Program (ages 2-5) Kindergarten Program Part-day program: 8:45 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Full-day program: 7:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
510-430-1322
Oak Grove Learning
Hwy 580 • Keller Ave exit 8115 Fontaine Street • Oakland 94605
Now Enrolling – Virtual Tour on website!
admin@oakgrovelearning.com www.OakGroveLearning.com License 013423093
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
Close to Rockridge Bart 5633 Manila ave – Oakland 94618
Visit our website to book a tour!
Lic. 01213520,013417669 & 013417787
January 2021 | ParentsPress.com
23
24
Parents Press | January 2021