Sacramento Parent February 2015

SACRAMENTO February 2015 | SacramentoParent.com Trusted Since 1992

SACRAMENTO

Too Cute Tooth Trinkets February is for the Birds!

School Guide Inside: Public, Charter & Homeschool Parental Control Apps & Trackers 25 Ways to Show Kids Love

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Winter Boredom Busters

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ON OUR COVER: Meet the Mulder Family, they are self-proclaimed urban chicken farming revolutionaries that enjoy good beer, long laughs, and shopping.

They love watching their girls participate in ballet and jazz and get a kick out of the simple joys in life.

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PHOTOGRAPHER: Colehearted Photography | www.ColeheartedPhotography.com

SACRAMENTO

SACRAMENTO

What’s Inside 10 fun finds | Too Cute, Tooth Trinkets

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12 February is for the Birds!

14 Winter Boredom Busters

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16 go Dandelion | Pump Pockets for Kids with PH 21 School Guide | Public, Charter & Homeschool 25 Beanstack Brings Book Picks for Kids 29 Apps & Trackers for Parents with Teens 33 calendar | Homework Help, Valentines & Black History Month!

39 Look for the Camp Stamp

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40 shows | Lots to Love this Month 41 exhibits | Annual Museum Day 42 25 Ways to Show Love to Kids

sponsored by

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dear readers I don’t think I ever realized how much happens in February until we were putting this issue together! Of course we’ve got Valentine’s Day and Presidents Day, but add in National Dental Health Month, Black History Month, and National Bird-Feeding Month—wow, there’s a lot happening!

This translates to a very BIG calendar this month—in fact, too big to print it all (page 33), so be sure to also follow our complete calendar of events at www.SacramentoParent.com.

As you’re looking for activities and events this month, be sure to try out our Winter Boredom Busters on page 14 and find simple everyday ideas on how to show your kids love on page 42. Speaking of love, check out the Dandelion feature this month to read about a mom that wanted to give back by sewing pump pockets into clothes for little ones with PH (page 16).

Finally, be sure to flip through the school guide (page 21), where we’ve rounded up local charter, public and homeschool options for families, including quite a few Virtual Academies (which seem to be on the rise).

Happy... well, happy everything in February!

Shannon & the Sac Parent Team FAMILY PUBLISHING, INC. Sacramento Parent Magazine Subscription Rate: one year, $30 457 Grass Valley Highway, Suite 5 pinterest.com/ instagram.com/ facebook.com/ twitter.com/ Auburn, CA 95603 SacParent SacParent SacramentoParent SacParentMag p 530-888-0573 f 530-888-1536 info@sacramentoparent.com | www.sacramentoparent.com

publisher | SUE LETO COLE editor-in-chief | SHELLY BOKMAN editor | SHANNON SMITH art director | LEISA MAYER, Orange Dog Design administrative assistant | CHRISTINE QUARRY

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Jenee ´ Watts | 530-889-6179 jenee@sacramentoparent.com ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES Yvette Dooly | 916-765-1402 yvette@sacramentoparent.com

FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER Colehearted Photography | www.ColeheartedPhotography.com

Andrea Rodriguez | 530-889-6174 andrea@sacramentoparent.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Raychell Sarcomo | 530-889-6175 raychell@sacramentoparent.com

Sara Barry Gayla Grace Shannon Smith Jordan Venema

Lindsay Trenz | 530-889-6178 lindsay@sacramentoparent.com Sacramento Parent magazine is published monthly by Family Publishing, Inc. It is available free of charge at over 1,000 locations throughout Greater Sacramento. Sacramento Parent magazine welcomes letters, articles, artwork and photos from our readers.

Sacramento Parent is not responsible for the return of unsolicited materials. All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without written permission. Opinions expressed by contributors or advertisers are not necessarily the opinions of this publication.

February 2015 | www.SacramentoParent.com

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fun finds

Toothfully Yours This month happens to be National Dental Health Month, so we’ve gathered up some uber cute ways to mark the big kid milestone of losing a tooth!

EASE THEM INTO THE IDEA WITH A BOOK...

Truman’s Loose Tooth

by Kristine Wurm, illustrated by Michael Chesworth

Truman’s Loose Tooth captures the pride, uncertainty, worry and excitement of this rite of passage into childhood through many laughs and heartwarming experiences. The story helps children to adjust to this change in their life and serves as a great stepping stone for coping with changes as a lifelong process. Your child will enjoy reading this book over and over, and you will, too! $14 | www.Amazon.com

Dear Tooth Fairy

by Alan Durant, illustrated by Vanessa Cabban

Holly’s tooth has fallen out, but she’s not sure she wants to give it to the Tooth Fairy just yet. She has a few questions to ask first, about how fairies operate and where her tooth will end up.

Luckily, the obliging Tooth Fairy responds—five times! Readers will be tickled to reach inside real envelopes and find Holly’s missives from the Tooth Fairy, including removable letters, a poster, a riddle-teller, and—finally—a shiny fairy coin. $13 | www.BarnesAndNoble.com or www.Amazon.com

WHIMSICAL TOOTH FAIRY TRINKETS… Sedona Tooth Fairy Door

A-Door-Able! Hang this inside, it has a perfect little shell for tooth placement and a clip for money or a note. Coins can be placed on the door step, crystals and jewelry in the shell—the possibilities are endless. Made to order, each door is approximately 6.5 x 7 inches and has a bracket for hanging. $32 | www.Etsy.com/shop/SedonaFairyDoors

Tiny Letter from the Tooth Fairy

Imagine your child’s face when the Tooth Fairy leaves them a handwritten letter—fairy-sized, of course! You can use the sample text, “Last night, while you were sleeping, I found your tooth. What a lovely tooth it is! I’m sure it will be one of the best in my collection. Keep up the good work!... –The Tooth Fairy,” or have it say anything you want. It comes in a tiny cardstock envelope (color of your choice) with “Special Delivery from the Tooth Fairy” or your child’s name and address. The length of the letter will impact the final size, but most are around 1 ½-2 inches. $3.35 | www.Etsy.com/shop/ArtToHeartCreations

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A PRECIOUS WAY TO TREASURE BABY TEETH… Baby Tooth Memory Book

Baby teeth are one of the most precious souvenirs of a child’s growing years.

Virtually all parents keep their children’s baby teeth—they just don’t know what to do with them! This Memory Book has a clever Baby Tooth Organizer, whimsical pages to place snapshots of their toothless smiles, journal special moments and dates, and even a place to save your child’s letter to the tooth fairy. $20 | www.BabyToothAlbum.com

Twinkle Toof

A fun Tooth Fairy box that can be personalized with your child’s name. The “tooth” has a secret box with a money clip inside and it glows in the dark, too! $5.99 | www.LearningExpress.com/store/roseville

Proof the Tooth Fairy was Here

Dr. Lora of Rocklin Pediatric Dentristry shares a few fun websites and an app where parents can superimpose an image of the tooth fairy onto a photo of their sleeping child as proof the tooth fairy paid a visit. Each site offers several poses to choose from and images can be shared with family and friends. The Tooth Fairy Was Here app is free and you can instantly create an image of a cute, illustrated tooth fairy floating near your sleeping child. Choose from six spritely fairies—all magical in their own way and share it with just a few clicks.

Less than $10 | www.CaptureTheMagic.com or www.ICaughtTheToothFairy.com Free | App Store for iPhone or iPad (Tooth Fairy Was Here) sp

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February is for the Birds

Family Fun with our Feathered Friends

By Sara Barry

Why is February is for the birds? It’s both National Bird Feeding Month and the Great Backyard Bird Count. What a great time to get to know the birds in your backyard!

If you don’t know a sparrow from a swallow, don’t worry. Part of the fun is learning—and you and your kids can do it together.

GET STARTED BIRDING: WHAT, WHEN AND WHERE

You don’t need much to start bird watching. In fact, one starting point is simply spotting birds. Take notice next time you are outdoors and try to name the ones you know.

Ready for the next step? A field guide (see “Books for Budding Birders” on page 13) will help you identify and learn about the birds. Binoculars will help your kiddos see detail, so choose ones small enough for them to handle easily. You can use a small notebook to track the birds you find. Encourage your kids to draw pictures or take notes about them.

The best time for bird sighting is usually early morning or late afternoon. You can get started right in your backyard or neighborhood. Then branch out to wilder places like ponds, marshes, meadows and any of the great wildlife preserves in our area. Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area, Effie Yeaw Nature Center and Placer Nature Center (to name a few) have some great scheduled events for beginner to novice birdwatchers.

LOOK AND LISTEN TO IDENTIFY BIRDS: WHO IS IT?

What kind of bird is it? Start paying attention to the details that will help you figure it out: • The primary color of the bird • Distinctive markings or wing color • Color of the feet and beak • The general shape • Unique features such as long legs, a long neck, or a large bill or beak • Shape of the wings (pointed or rounded?) and the tail (forked or not?)

• Size of the bird compared to objects in your house Use your ears too. Experienced birders can identify birds by sounds as well as sight. You can listen to the calls of various birds at www.AllAboutBirds.org.

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Bush Tit, photograph by Jim Collins as seen at www.SacNatureCenter.net

Using what you notice about the birds around you, start trying to identify birds you’ve spotted and look them up in your book. Want to get tech-savvy kids engaged in the game? Instead of traditional guides, try apps like Audobon Birds or Merlin from The Cornell Lab.

FEED THE BIRDS

If you want to see a lot of birds, try feeding them. Providing food within view of a window brings birds into view and is helpful to them during the cold winter months.

You can buy a bird feeder, build your own from scratch, use a kit, or create a simple one from materials you likely have on hand. The National Museum of Animals and Society suggests this simple birdfeeder: spread peanut butter on toast or a bagel and sprinkle the whole thing with dried fruit or seeds, then hang it outside. Peanut butter mixed with cornmeal can also be spread on a large pinecone.

And while we often think of birdseed as food, many birds (including robins and bluebirds) like fruit. The National Audubon Society recommends soaking dried fruit such as raisins or currants to place in a table feeder. They also recommend hanging orange halves near your feeders.

Remember to place food in such a way that birds are safe from predators. You don’t want the food you set out to make our feathered friends an easy snack for the neighborhood cat.

Turkey Vulture, photograph by Jim Collins as seen at www.SacNatureCenter.net

MAKE BIRDS FEEL AT HOME

Winter is a great time to set up bird houses or boxes. The home you offer should be made of untreated wood, be appropriately sized (an entrance hole that is too small keeps out the birds you hope to attract, while one too large lets in aggressive birds and predators), have ventilation, and include a baffle to keep away predators.

The Right Bird, Right House tool at www.AllAboutBirds.org helps you identify the birds in your area and location type and provides information on creating and locating a safe, appropriate bird house.

COUNTING BIRDS

From February 13 to 16, Cornell Lab of Ornithology and National Audubon Society hold the Great Backyard Bird Count. This program allows anybody to help gather data about birds all over the world.

You can participate with as little as 15 minutes a day. Check out their website (http://gbbc.birdcount.org) for more details and to sign up.

Not sure you can ID the birds you see? Use some of the tips listed earlier to practice and get ready for this annual event next year!

WATCH FROM AFAR

If your backyard isn’t teaming with birds, or if you’re curious about specific birds, perhaps ones not native to your area, check out the web. Bird cams are a great way to get close-ups on birds, especially those you might not see in your location or those nesting or hatching eggs. Check out Avibase—The World Bird Database for a list of web cams all over the world.

So feed our feathered friends this month—and take some time to get to know them a little better. A new family hobby might take wing. sp

BOOKS FOR BUDDING BIRDERS

Reading is a great way to learn about birds, whether you’re reading stories, poems, or informative narratives or flipping through a field guide. Here are some suggestions:

STORIES/POETRY

The Bird Alphabet Book by Jerry Pallotta— Award-winning author Jerry Pallotta packs lots of bird fun facts into this alphabet book.

Birds by Kevin Henkes—The book begins with noticing birds and then wondering—a great jumping off point for beginning birders.

Owl Moon by Jane Yolen—This Caldecott Medal winner features rich imagery and illustrations about a young child owling with her father.

The Peregrine’s Journey by Madeline Dunphy— Based on a true story, this narrative follows a peregrine falcon on an 8,000 mile migration.

Today at the Bluebird Café by Deborah Ruddell— Bird inspired poems suit a range of ages.

FIELD GUIDES FOR YOUNGER KIDS

About Birds: A Guide for Children

by Cathryn Sill and John Sill

Birds, Nests, and Eggs (Take Along Guide)

by Mel Boring

FIELD GUIDES FOR OLDER KIDS

Backyard Birds by Jonathan Latimer, Karen Stray Nolting, and Roger Tory Peterson Stokes Beginner’s Guide to Birds (Eastern and Western regions), by Donald and Lillian Stokes Take a Backyard Bird Walk by Jane Kirkland

Sara Barry is a writer who loves seeing the flash of a red cardinal dart across a winter sky.

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Winter Boredom Busters If your kiddos are in need of an activity on a dreary wintery day—you’re in luck! We’ve scoured Pinterest to bring you some ideas that are guaranteed to wipe out the words, “I’m bored.” Here are a few, but head over to our Boredom Busters Board on Pinterest to see them all.

LEARNING ALL THE WHILE

FUN AND GAMES Balloon paddle ball

How clouds make rain

You can easily show this to your kids with a few simple materials. You’ll need foam shaving cream, a jar, water, and food coloring.

1. Fill jar almost to the top with water.

2. Cover the top with a “cloud” of shaving cream.

3. Let your child drop food coloring into the cloud until the color starts “raining” into the water below.

1. Tape a popsicle stick, craft stick, or even a plastic utensil to the back of a paper plate (as a handle).

Explain that this is how rain works too. The water collects in the cloud until there is too much, and then it leaks through, forming rain.

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Here’s an activity for a “boring day” that is sure to provide lots of fun.

All you need are paper plates, craft sticks, tape and a balloon and you are good to go. The kiddos can even decorate their “paddles.” Bat the balloon back-and-forth, or simply use the paddle to bounce the balloon in the air as many times as you can without letting it touch the floor.

2. Blow up a balloon, or two and play ball!

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IMAGINATIVE TOYMAKERS

You’ve been slimed

It only takes 4oz. of Elmer’s glue, water and a little Borax for this entertaining goo that they can stretch, squeeze and play with!

1. Pour a half cup of water in a bowl and the entire 4oz. container of glue, add coloring (mix this up really well).

2. Heat 1 cup of water and dissolve Borax into it, one teaspoon at a time until it stops dissolving (about 3 tsp).

3. Add the Borax mixture to the glue mixture and stir again. You can store it in a plastic bag, or mason jar.

ASPIRING ARTISTS Rain painting

You can do this with watercolor paint, or food coloring.

All you need is paper, a tray (or cookie sheet), and water colors, or food coloring.

1. Add drops of food coloring to a piece of paper, or break up pieces of watercolor and sprinkle them onto the paper.

2. Set your masterpiece out in the rain for a bit, then bring it in to dry.

3. Next, try applying the food coloring to a fresh piece of paper after it has been soaked from the rain. sp

Find more winter Boredom Busters and other cool pins at www.Pinterest.com/SacParent.

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Made With Love Pump Pockets for Kids with PH

By Jordan Venema

It’s the kind of thing every parent understands, a child waking in the middle of the night, coughing, burning with fever, short of breath, and nothing we can do but assure them (though we ourselves are unsure) that everything will be ok.

We sit by her bed, sick with anxiety and helplessness, assaulted by the what-ifs.

What if the fever doesn’t subside, what if it’s not a cold, what if it’s something worse? Sometimes the what-if is worse than the diagnosis.

In December of 2013, the McFaddens noticed that their daughter, Samantha, was short of breath. “It almost sounded like she was panting,” says her mother, Amanda. Troubled by the cold-like symptoms, they took the nearly one-year-old Samantha to the doctor, to put their what-ifs to rest. “They did a chest X-ray, and it looked like pneumonia,” says Amanda. That diagnosis didn’t exactly put the McFaddens at ease. According to the World Health Organization, pneumonia is the leading infectious cause of death for children worldwide. “So when we thought it was pneumonia, even then it was really terrifying,” says Amanda, “Especially when she wasn’t responding to the medicine.”

Amanda remembers a bleak Christmas. “It was too much to see her go through.

She was so lethargic, she would just lie around.” And Samantha wasn’t getting better. “They gave her antibiotics, and she didn’t respond,” explains Amanda.

“They gave her steroids and she didn’t respond. They kept referring me to this specialist and that specialist. I think I’ve seen every specialist in pediatrics at Kaiser.” The what-ifs returned as Samantha’s symptoms worsened.

In early January, a CAT scan finally gave the McFaddens answers. “It showed that her heart was enlarged,” says Amanda. “The pressure on the left side of her heart should have been higher than the right, but hers was almost equal.” But the diagnosis was far worse than pneumonia: Pulmonary Hypertension, an incurable and terminal disease.

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goDandelion.com The McFaddens had been terrified of pneumonia, but they were devastated by this new diagnosis. “We fell apart. It was probably the lowest of the low at that point, because there’s no cure, it’s chronic, it’s progressive, and she’s pretty much guaranteed a short life span,” says Amanda, “It really felt like somebody punched us in the gut. You never want to hear those words, to know that your child has a fatal disease. […] It was just a lot to take in, and very devastating.”

Despite the terminal diagnosis, the McFaddens didn’t allow themselves to be overwhelmed by hopelessness.

They were also fortunate, since Samantha’s rare form of the disease, Idiopathic Pulmonary Hypertension, usually goes undiagnosed. “Unfortunately,” says Amanda, “they don’t usually find this out until they do an autopsy. […]

Kids are diagnosed with asthma or something else.”

In retrospect the severity of the diagnosis made sense.

“Looking back, she had kind of stalled on walking,” says Amanda. “She would take maybe a step or two and fall, and it seemed she didn’t have the strength or stamina to go past that.” Thanks to a quick diagnosis, Samantha was able to receive treatment. That bleak Christmas was followed by a kind spring. “I’m not kidding,” says Amanda, “but the day after we brought her home from the hospital, she started walking. When that medicine started going through her veins and opening everything up she could breathe, she started walking.”

Samantha’s medicine, Remodulin, is administered by a pump through a tube into a permanent catheter. Remodulin, Amanda explains, “opens up all the blood vessels in her body,” essentially normalizing her blood pressure. But Samantha needs the pump around the clock, and though it’s only slightly larger than a medical pager—imagine a diabetic pump—it’s still cumbersome to a toddler. And because the pump comes without a clip, it’s impractical, says Amanda. “What they give you,” she says, “is a very clunky case that goes over the head, with a very heavy clip that is almost February 2015 | www.SacramentoParent.com

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heavier than the pump itself…and with baby clothes, it just pulls on the neck.”

It sounds simple, but the difference was significant. By sewing two pieces of fabric together, and then using a sturdy When our children suffer from a cold, stitch to attach the pockets to the back we feel helpless. There’s little more we of Samantha’s clothes, Amanda came can do than give them medicine and try up with an efficient, comfortable, and to comfort them through it. How much affordable way for her daughter to carry more helpless the McFaddens must have her pump. “It worked out perfectly,” says felt, knowing there’s no “through it” with Amanda, “and it does actually feel a lot PH. “This disease can make you feel safer for her.” helpless as a parent,” explains Amanda.

“There’s not much I can do except make The team at UCSF, where Samantha her medicine. I can’t change what’s received her treatment, was so going on inside her body.” impressed with the pocket that they suggested Amanda patent and sell the Like any other parent, though, Amanda pocket. “I didn’t feel right with that has done all she can for her daughter. though,” says Amanda. “I didn’t want “I started talking with doctors at the to make a buck off it. I wanted to help hospital,” she explains, to explore other other parents that were going through ways to make the pump more comfortsomething similar.” able. “So we decided to sew pockets on the back of her shirt.”

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goDandelion.com through the Pulmonary Hypertension Association, seeking funds to make pockets for parents of children with PH. The Association approved the grant; it also gave double the funds she had requested.

“This is a devastating disease,” says Amanda, “even more devastating when it’s your own child. And if I could take any part of the whole process and make it easier for a parent—it’s something to give them so they don’t have to wrack their brain, and their life is made easier.”

So, Amanda applied to receive a grant

The McFaddens are living with the reality that their daughter might not live past five. So every six months they celebrate her half birthday, and treasure the present. Still, Amanda finds the time to sew pockets for other parents. Nor does she make a dime; she’s working out of pocket, so to speak. Though she admits she has the support of women from her church, who help her sew and donate fabric.

Despite their daughter’s diagnosis, Amanda feels blessed, and wants to bless others. “This allows me to feel like I’m doing something positive for

other families and the PH community as a whole.”

As for Samantha, she turned two in January, and celebrated with a My Little Pony themed party. “We enjoy spending as much time with her as we can because everyday is precious,” says Amanda. “She is a normal, happy toddler. She’s talking and playing, she gets in trouble…she’s a trooper, she is sweet natured, she gets along with everybody, and she stands up for herself.” But mostly, says Amanda, “she’s a really strong little girl.” Then Amanda adds, “and she’s a fighter.” Well, obviously, so is her mother.

Jordan Venema is a freelance writer and California native. He’s a fan of stories, traveling, music, and food. But mostly, he’s a fan of his six-year old son, Cassian. He can be contacted by email at jordan.venema@gmail.com.

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School Spotlight American River Charter School

ARCS is offering unique options for all families on the Divide and beyond. Call us to arrange a visit, or for more information. We offer individualized instruction to create healthy, happy kids in a safe learning environment.

530-333-8340 | www.ARCS-ca.schoolloop.com

Aspire Capitol Heights Academy K-5

Choose a quality education to prepare your child for college! Free and public K-5 school, small school and class sizes, individualized instruction, college prep program, committed teachers and staff with music, art, library and physical education.

916-739-8520 | www.AspirePublicSchools.org

California Charter Schools Association

California’s charter school movement needs motivated and visionary leaders to drive positive change in education for the next generation of Sacramento students. Parents, educators and community members decide to start charter schools for a variety of reasons. Contact Norman Gonzales at CCSA to learn more about starting a charter school.

916-448-0995 ext. 335 | www.calcharters.org

California Montessori Project

The California Montessori Project (CMP) is a TK-8 public charter school network consisting of seven campuses, located in Sacramento, Orangevale, Fair Oaks, Carmichael, Elk Grove and Shingle Springs. The Montessori approach focuses primarily on the development of the whole child, while providing a rigorous academic program.

Utilizing hands-on materials and experiential learning, CMP promotes a community where children are respectful of others, take responsibility for their own actions, and develop a love of learning.

916-971-2432 | www.CaCMP.org

California Montessori Project

California Montessori Project (CMP) es una red de escuelas publicas charter TK-8 en Sacramento, Orangevale, Fair Oaks, Carmichael, Elk Grove, Shingle Springs. Provee un programa academico rigoroso, una comunidad respetuosa, responsable con amor al aprendizaje.

916-971-2432 | www.CaCMP.org

EDUHSD Virtual Academy

The Virtual Academy is a blended learning charter school that uses 21st century tools to meet every student’s needs. Students can attend school every day if they desire with highly qualified teachers. Call to learn about the power of blended learning.

530-622-6212 | www.EdVirtualAcademy.com

Gateway Community Charter Schools

GCC provides exciting high quality public charter school options at 16 campuses throughout the Sacramento region. We serve over 4,200 students within six unique charter options with focuses including a K-8th grade college preparation academy, 9-12th grade high school, K-8th grade core knowledge elementary school, and two independent study academies serving (K-12th and 7-12th) grade students for credit recovery, acceleration, vocational, and career/work force development. We are enrolling, come join us!

916-286-5129 | www.GCCcharters.org

Golden Valley Charter Schools

Tuition-free K-8 public charter schools inspired by Waldorf Education. We envision that through a whole-child approach to learning, student curiosity, enthusiasm and effort will enable all children to reach the fullest expression of their individual potential.

916-987-6141 | www.GoldenValleyCharter.org

Harvest Ridge Placer Academy

Placer Academy is a K-8, public charter school that combines the Core Knowledge curriculum with project-based learning in a unique 4-day on-site program with 1 day per week of independent study.

916-259-1688 | www.PlacerAcademy.org

Options For Youth Public Charter Schools

Options for Youth is a tuition-free public charter school serving grades 7-12 that will help your child get more than just a high school diploma. Our guided individualized learning program will prepare your child for a successful post-secondary education. Flexible class schedules, math tutors, small class sizes, one-on-one instruction, and A-G courses ensure that your child gets the attention they deserve and need in a safe environment.

888-389-9992 | www.ofy.org

Rocklin Academy Family of Schools

Our charter schools are continually the top-performing academic schools in the region! Our three elementary campuses offer the nationally-acclaimed Core Knowledge Curriculum in grades TK-8. Our high school includes a collegepreparatory, Advanced Placement (AP) curriculum required for all students in grades 9-12. We are public, tuition-free and open to all students.

916-778-4544 | www.RocklinAcademy.com

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School Spotlight Continued Rio Valley Charter School

Rio Valley is an accredited K-12 charter school serving homeschooling families in Sacramento and San Joaquin Counties currently utilizing the Sierra 2 Center in the quaint Curtis Park neighborhood for our Sacramento Arts Guild program. Monday and Wednesday mornings (9:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.) our Guild students receive instruction from local arts experts in vocals, acting, stage combat, improvisation, dance, and a unique career/college readiness class for performing artists.

844-368-4934 | www.RioValley.org

Rocklin Independent Charter Academy

RICA is a public K-12 charter school that offers a unique blend of home study, online, and on campus classes. We provide students and families choice, variety, and flexibility in meeting their educational goals.

916-632-3195 | RICA.RocklinUSD.org

Roseville City School District

We offer small class sizes, safe learning environments and quality programs such as extended day kindergarten, STEAM course, GATE, AVID, International Baccalaureate along with other academic and social enrichment opportunities for K-8th grade students.

916-771-1600 | www.RCSDK8.org

Visions In Education

Visions In Education Charter School is a California public school, offering FREE HomeSchool, Online High School and Independent Study Programs for kindergarten through 12th grade students. Visions combines personalized learning programs and a one-onone relationship with a credentialed teacher. Visions provides standards-based curriculum, tutoring, lessons, field trips, computers and serves students in Amador, Contra Costa, El Dorado, Placer, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Solano, Sutter, and Yolo counties.

Space is limited, enroll today.

877-971-7037 | www.VIEDU.org

W. T. Eich Middle School

W. T. Eich is an International Baccalaureate (IB) candidate school serving 6th-8th grade students. We incorporate rigorous standards with Visual & Performing, Foreign Language and Math & Language Arts Programs. Call us to learn more!

916-771-1770 | www.IBEich.com

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Have you Heard?

Edited by Shannon Smith

Beanstack Delivers Custom Book Picks for Young Readers

Recently, the

Sacramento Library

rolled out a new children’s book and app picks service. You can now link-up with your local library to get free, personalized recommendations through Beanstack.

mobile apps that fit their child’s interests and reading level.

This means you now have access to a custom library of book picks for your children ages eight and under. I gave it a whirl with my 7 year-old and shortly after clicking through a few layers of simple prompts to determine my daughter’s interests—I was all set up and received a fitting recommendation in my email inbox the next day.

Children who can’t get enough to read.

Parents of voracious readers sometimes can’t find that next author or series for their child. Beanstack can do it for you.

Sacramento Public Library (SPL) Youth Services Librarians will use Beanstack’s powerful tools to help guide parents that sign up to find books and educational

According to Malcolm Machlachlan, Public Information Coordinator for SPL, Beanstack is a perfect reading companion for:

Children who think they don’t like to read.

By choosing books that fit your child’s interests, instead of some abstract idea of what children like, Beanstack can help awaken their love of reading.

SPL is the first library to offer the free Beanstack service and was made possible by the generous support from the Friends of the Sacramento Public Library.

Now parents have another tool to help turn budding readers on to books! You can get started by visiting their Beanstack web page (http://saclibrary.beanstack.org) to sign up for a free account. Just indicate your child’s age, reading level and interests.

What to expect? Every week, Beanstack and the Library will email a new recommendation chosen from books in the Library collection. Each recommendation also will be available through the user’s profile page and will include learning activities and other information.

“People now are accustomed to services like Netflix, where they can go online and browse, set up their personal tastes,” said Amy Calhoun, virtual branch coordinator at SPL, “Having a library model of great reads for kids is a perfect fit.” sp

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Teen Trackers & Parental Control Nothing takes the place of good communication and a relationship based on love and trust, but technology has brought parents a plethora of choices when it comes to tracking their child’s every move.

Some call it paranoid parenting, some call it ‘trust, but verify’ parenting, and some are just looking out for their child’s safety in today’s world—all in all, it may or may not be for you, but regardless—there’s no shortage of choices when it comes to tracking your family through smartphones and tablets.

Realizing times have changed since we were kids and because our children have the ability to go online pretty much whenever and wherever—we’ve rounded-up (in no particular order) a list of popular parenting apps and trackers that have received quite a bit of hype.

KEEP TRACK

Pocket-Nanny has only 3 buttons to

make it simple to use. It uses shake detection, a child can shake the device to pop up Pocket Nanny on the screen and press one of 3 action buttons: I am fine, Pick me up, Help! www.Pocket-Nanny.com Free | Android or Apple

MAMABEAR users will be alerted

when a child arrives or leaves places like home, school, after school activities, restricted places or a dropoff location. Access Facebook and Instagram activity to know when they make new friends, follow someone new, are tagged in posts, photos or at locations. You can also receive notification when your child is driving–or riding– faster than a speed you program. http://MamabearApp.com Free (with ads) | Android or Apple

SecuraFone offers free GPS tracking

and monitoring and shows location history for 90 days. It prevents distracted driving by stopping email and texting while driving (Android only). It also provides alerts for speeding, and can connect with emergency services. www.SecuraFone.com Free | Android or Apple

Footprints allows you to track your

kids and share locations with family and friends, anytime, privately. It tracks and shares locations automatically—in real time, all the time. You can set up Geofences, like your kids school, and be notified when these fences are crossed and activate movement sensors that will notify you each time your loved ones are on the move. www.Footprints.net Free | Android or Apple

Time Away allows parents to moni-

tor device usage, app downloads and location. It was designed to help balance the awesome educational opportunities your kids get from the internet, while also preventing addiction.

You can pause all devices for family events, set “time away” schedules, like school or bedtime, and create time limits for apps. www.Time-Away.com Free | Android or Apple

My Mobile Watchdog has over 20

parental controls that make it simple for you to see what your child is doing with their phone, set up time limits, app blocking, and what alerts you want to receive. A parent dashboard lets you view text and picture messages, contact history, find a lost phone, block websites, turn off apps during homework time automatically, and more. www.MyMobileWatchdog.com $9.99 per mo | Android or Apple

MM Guardian is installed on your

child’s phone, directly from your own phone and allows parents to send commands and remotely manage the configuration of the child’s phone app.

It can be used to quickly locate your child’s phone, and see the location on a map, lock or unlock the phone with a simple button press, set time limits, blocks and filters, monitor texts and control apps. www.MMGuardian.com $3.98 per mo | Android continued on page 31 February 2015 | www.SacramentoParent.com

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Canary provides notifications in

real-time when your child is using the phone while driving, exceeding a speed limit you set, traveling into an “off-limits” area, staying out past curfew, and if they are near weather alerts. www.TheCanaryProject.com Free | Android or Apple

Life360 is a location-sharing app

that allows you to create discreet circles for the important people in your life. Stay connected to family, friends, and everyone inbetween.

Share your location with who you want, when you want, get automatic notifications when friends and family arrive at favorite places, communicate one-to-one, or in an entire group with free in-app messaging and more. www.Life360.com Free | Android, Apple, Windows Phone

EYE SPY

Famigo is a subscription based app

that holds kids’ favorite content in a locked environment that you control, with new content being delivered daily—eliminating in-app purchases, inappropriate content and ads. With the subscription families will receive new approved apps, games, videos, and books every month. www.Famigo.com $4.99 per mo | Android or Apple

Ignore No More allows parents

to lock their kids’ phones from afar if they’re ignoring calls, with a password of the parent’s choosing. After the parent does so, the only way that the child will be able to unlock his phone is to call the parent and ask for the password. www.IgnoreNoMoreApp.com $1.99 | Android

FBI Child ID is a free app that pro-

up to 12 live video and audio webcam feeds from your Apple or Android device. Popular uses include baby monitor, pet cam, nanny cam, spy cam, and security camera. Record and playback motion events and receive notifications on your device when motion is detected by your iCam source. www.SKJM.com/icam $4.99 | Android or Apple

vides a place to electronically store photos and vital information about your children so it’s literally right at hand if you need it. You can show the pictures and provide physical identifiers such as height and weight to security or police officers on the spot. Using a special tab on the app, you can also quickly and easily e-mail the information to authorities with a few clicks. www.FBI.gov Free | Android or Apple

Baby Monitor HD is another app

Sex Offender Search keeps your

iCam allows you to remotely monitor

bringing us the next generation of baby monitors where you can see and hear your baby from ‘anywhere in the world’! Access your digital video and audio baby monitor from home, work, or even in your travels. www.BabyMonitorHD.com $9.99 | Apple

PARENTAL CONTROL

KIDO’Z has a parent-only password

protected area that allows parents to manage and customize their child’s KIDO’Z experience and automatically blocks unapproved apps, ads and games. Parents can limit screen time and it has a variety of child friendly games—but, parents can also manage, block or add content and apps too. www.KIDOZ.net Free | Android or Windows

family protected by letting you know where sex offenders are in your neighborhood. This app uses the most up-to-date information from the National Sex Offender Registry. When you register for an account, you’ll also get the option to subscribe to monthly offender report emails notifying you of new activity in your area. This extra feature is completely free and you can opt out at any time. www.Life360.com Free | Android or Apple And the list could go on and on... What do you think about teen tracking and having parental control over what your kids are seeing on their smartphones and tablets? sp

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calendar We recommend confirming events before you go.

All phone numbers are area code 916 unless otherwise noted. See our full calendar listings at www.SacramentoParent.com.

February So Much to Do ...and even sweeter— there’s an abundance of free enriching events to love this month, too!

Among the jam-packed educational opportunities, here are a few highlights: • February 7th is Sacramento’s Annual Museum Day, check www.SacMuseums.org to find a list of the participating museums that will be offering free (or discounted) admission all day!

• Keep an eye out for our feathered friends, both Placer Nature Center and Effie Yeaw Nature Center have some wonderful free events for beginner to novice birdwatchers.

• Check in with your local library, they continue to offer great events for all ages. This month we’ve included events like homework help, Valentine’s Day crafts, ways to celebrate Black History Month and more—these programs are almost always free.

Large Egret, photograph by Jim Collins as seen at www.SacNatureCenter.net

Sunday 2/1 Critter Corner

1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael Get eye to eye with one of their furry, scaly, or feathered residents. $5 per car county entrance fee into Ancil Hoffman Park.

489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net

Feather Hunters—Science Saturday

9-11am at Placer Nature Center, Auburn Get your binoculars or borrow a pair and come and take an early morning bird walk to discover PNC birds. Afterwards, stay to engage in bird activities to learn about raptors, songbirds and the groundbirds that make PNC their home. Fun for all ages. $3 per person.

530-878-6053 | www.PlacerNatureCenter.org

Groundhog Day Craft

1:30pm at Central Library, Sacramento Families and children are invited to meet up in Kids’ Place for a craft celebrating Groundhog Day! Craft supplies will be provided and street parking is free on Sundays.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

Monday 2/2 GROUNDHOG DAY National Frozen Yogurt Day

4-7pm at participating locations Yogurtland will be offering free frozen yogurt and toppings for everyone from 4pm-7pm. The participating locations: Yogurtland Arden area, Fair Oaks, Roseville and Sacramento. See website for more details. www.Yogurt-Land.com

Tuesday 2/3

Black History Month Celebration: The Art of Silhouettes

6:30pm at Galt-Marian O. Lawrence Library, Galt Using illustrations and pictures from books depicting the landscape of Africa, participants will use cut out shapes to create scenes.

Images will be created using tissue paper, scrapbooking paper, etc., and then silhouettes will be glued over the top to create contrast between the bright colors of the background.

Fabric and washes of watercolor along with markers will be applied to make a stunning example of African art.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

Homework Zone

3:30pm at Franklin Community Library, Elk Grove Drop-in homework help for school-age and high school students is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30-5:30pm. Volunteer homework coaches will be available to assist students in grades K-12 with homework assignments.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

Wednesday 2/4

Hawks, Honkers & Hoots

3pm at Walnut Grove Library, Walnut Grove Learn about local wildlife and conservation with birds of prey and water birds. A Jim Dixon Memorial Nature Series program.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

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Show Way Freedom Quilts with Art Beast 3:30pm at Elk Grove Library Show Way tells the story of Soonie, a young enslaved girl who uses quilts to show the way to freedom. After a reading of this powerful story, children will make their own paper quilts. This is a Black History Month event.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

Thursday 2/5

Family Storytime: Sunrise Mall Story Stop

11am at Sunrise Mall, Citrus Heights Head to Sunrise Mall for a fun Family Storytime (at their location next to the UA Sunrise movie theaters) for stories, songs, feltboards, games, crafts and more. And don’t forget “Stay and Play”!

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

Friday 2/6

Daddy & Me Valentine Dance

(2/6 & 2/7) 7-9pm at CSD Gym, El Dorado Hills This is a 13 year long tradition, in fact, now with two dances to choose from! Dads and daughters get dressed up for a night full of memories complete with dancing, photos, and a dessert bar.

Pre-registration is required, $12 per person.

933-6624 | www.EDHCSD.org

Father Daughter Dance (2/6 & 2/7)

6:30-8:30pm at Fair Oaks Community Clubhouse Grease back your hair, grab your poodle skirt and dancing shoes for the Fair Oaks Youth Advisory Board’s annual Father Daughter Dance.

This event will have light refreshments, music, and much more! Professional pictures will be available for an additional fee. $25 for father and daughter, $5 for each additional daughter.

Tickets must be purchased in advance.

966-1036 | www.FairOaksPark.org

Frozen in Time: Father Daughter Dance (2/6, 2/13 & 2/20)

6pm at Laguna Town Hall, Elk Grove Join the Cosumnes Community Service District for dancing, DJ, and a catered dinner.

Professional photographs are available for an additional fee. This dance is appropriate for daughters ages 3 and older. $30 per person.

405-5600 | www.YourCSD.com

Kids Klub at Lakeside

6-9pm at Lakeside Church, Folsom Kids Klub is for children with special needs and their siblings ages 2 and over. The kids receive appropriate care and enjoy fun activities, while parents enjoy a much needed break. Reservations must be made in advance each month for kids to participate (usually on Friday evenings). It is a lot of fun for both the kids and parents! To inquire, please contact Cheri, cheriwieland@lakesidechurch.com. www.LakesideChurch.com/kidsfest-resources/special-needs-kids-klub/

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Saturday 2/7

17th Annual Sacramento Museum Day 10am-4pm at participating locations This annual event takes place on the first Saturday of the month. Patrons will receive free or discounted Museum admission at participating locations throughout Greater Sacramento. Check the website for the list of participating museums. www.SacMuseums.org

Chinese New Year Celebration 2015

11am-5pm at Hiram Johnson High School, Sacramento The Chinese New Year Celebration 2015 cultural gala, celebrating the Year of the Goat, will feature stage entertainment, food, arts, children’s games, martial arts, and community exhibits. Admission: $6 general, $1 children under 12 (free parking, free admission to community exhibits, children’s games, and arts and crafts booths). http://CNYCA.net

My Princess & Me Dance

5:30pm-8pm at NP3 School Gym, Sacramento A popular event for dads, grandpas, uncles, friends, or father-figures to escort their special girl to an enchanted evening and make them feel like a princess. Enjoy dancing, desserts, photos, surprise princess guests, and more at this fun evening for girls (ages 4 to 13). Admission is $35 couple/$10 extra princesses. Tickets go on sale 2/2 and must be purchased in advance.

838-9988 | www.DaddyofDaughters.com

Secrets of a Wildlife Watcher

10:30am at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael Much of what we know about wildlife was discovered by just watching. Take a walk in the Nature Area and sharpen your observation skills. $5 per car county entrance fee into Ancil Hoffman Park.

489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net

The Puppet Company

2pm at South Natomas Library, Sacramento Celebrate Black History Month with Anansi, the Spider. Learn how little Anansi received the golden box of stories to give the people of Earth in this delightful puppet show.

Presented with authentic African music, colorful costuming and classical African design.

Program sponsored by the Friends of the South Natomas Library.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

Sunday 2/8

Anansi, the Spider with The Puppet Company

2pm at Central Library, Sacramento Celebrate Black History Month with Anansi, the Spider. Meet the tiny spider with large ideas. Anansi decided the children of Earth needed stories to tell each other—but all the stories were kept by Nyami, the Sky God. Learn how little Anansi received the golden box of stories to give the people of Earth in

this delightful puppet show. Prior to the show, families are invited to participate in a craft activity with Art Beast. Kids will make their own Anansi, the Spider.

Craft activity begins at 1pm.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

Finding Your Way

1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael Join docent Jennifer Kerr for a guided map and compass walk. You will learn how to use a compass, take bearings, read a compass with a map and find your way around the trails. $5 per car county entrance fee into Ancil Hoffman Park.

489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net

I Heart Sacramento Zoo

9am-4pm at Sacramento Zoo This special day is organized by the Sacramento Zoo Teen volunteers. The event features Valentinethemed animal enrichments, informative talks and activity tables—all included with general admission.

Sacramento Zoo Teens will also provide interactive ways to discover how you can conserve water.

808-5888 | www.SacZoo.org

Tuesday 2/10 Homework Zone

3:30pm at Robbie Waters PocketGreenhaven Library, Sacramento Free homework help for grades 1-8 on a drop-in basis, Tuesdays, 3:30-5:30pm in the community room and Wednesdays, 5:30-7:30pm inside the kids’ area of the library. This program is made possible with the help of volunteers, and is subject to cancellation depending on their availability. If you would like to volunteer as a Homework Coach (and help us to keep our program running so we can help more kids), feel free to inquire for more information at the front desk.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

Why Mosquitos Buzz in Our Ears

5pm at Fair Oaks Library The African drums begin to pound as the jungle awakens to a new day. Also awakening are the stone idols of Kwaku, Aleka and Mammo, the storytellers. These stone carvings tell the tale of poor Mosquito and how he commits a terrible crime in the jungle—without even knowing it! With the use of authentic African music and stunning jungle scenery, the puppets come to life and cast their magical spell. This is a Black History Month program.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

Wednesday 2/11

Make Your Own Heart Mosaic with ArtBeast 4pm at Arcade Library, Sacramento After hearing a fun Valentine’s Day book, create a project that is perfect for giving to a certain special someone in your life. Perfect for children of all ages.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

Thursday 2/12 Homework Zone

3:30pm at Franklin Community Library, Elk Grove Drop-in homework help for school-age and high school students is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30-5:30pm. Volunteer homework coaches will be available to assist students in grades K-12 with homework assignments.

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The Seven Chinese Sisters-Paper Dragon Puppets

4pm at N.Highlands-Antelope Library, Antelope ArtBeast presents this fun twist on a classic Chinese tale featuring a cast of brave and strong sisters. After the story, children will create their own easy-to-make Chinese dragon puppet from paper and other materials.

Free admission.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

Friday 2/13

Ella Fitzgerald: The Tale of a Vocal Virtuosa

4pm at Southgate Community Library, Sacramento Celebrate Black History Month with a lively and beautiful book about one of the greatest jazz singers of all time that will inspire children to create biographic song titles and artwork for their very own pretend mini record. After reading the book, discussing the different ways music was recorded and sold (from records to digital) and the way the story is divided into “tracks,” our young musicians will be invited to create cover art that will fit inside a real CD case. The children will also be encouraged to come up with their own track titles for a paper “record” to go inside this hip and historic art piece.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

Mega Family Valentines Dance

7-10pm at Southpointe Christian Center Auditorium, Sacramento Dance the night away at this family event. Tickets include dinner, raffle ticket, photo booth, entertainment, fun activities and games for all ages.

Clean family fun and music. Dress to impress. $20 adult, $30 couple, $10 children ages 17 and under.

271-2351 | www.MegaFamilyExpo.com

Saturday 2/14 VALENTINE’S DAY

12th Annual Valentine Run/Walk

6:45am at Country Club Plaza Mall, Sacramento The Valentine Run/Walk is kid-friendly, stroller-friendly, and canine-companion friendly! Participants are encouraged to wear their hearts on their sleeves, socks, tutus, and onesies to compete for the best dressed awards and to show their love of the Valentine Run/Walk. Enjoy either a 1.8 mile untimed course or the 4 mile course (which can be timed or untimed) that meanders through the Arden Park neighborhood. After the run, enjoy refreshments, entertainment, vendors, and of course, a festive awards ceremony. Proceeds from the Valentine Run/Walk help sustain Legal Services of Northern California’s services that empower low income famililes and help secure basic needs such as access to health care and a safe place to live. See website for registration/cost information.

551-2164 | www.LSNCrun.info

26th Annual Sweet Potato Festival

10am-4pm at Samuel & Bonnie Pannell Community Center, Sacramento A fun family event with vendors, local amateur entertainment, sweet potato pies by Chef Richard Pannell, and a sweet potato pie contest. It is free and open to the general public.

491-6850 | www.SVSNCNW.org

Duck, Duck, Goose

10:30am at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael Winter is a great time to see waterfowl along the American River. Join a naturalist on a guided walk to look for herons, ducks, geese and other birds along the river. Bring your binoculars or borrow theirs! $5 per car county entrance fee into Ancil Hoffman Park.

489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net

LEGO WeDo Robotics

1pm at Robbie Waters Pocket-Greenhaven Library, Sacramento I do, you do, we all do robotics! Kids ages 7 to 12 are invited to join us for this beginning robotics workshop led by library staff. Participants will use the LEGO WeDo Robotics program to build animals, athletes, and other figures and then add motion to their creations with simple drag and drop programming software. Using math, engineering and science, this workshop is sure to be great fun—and educational too! Registration is required.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

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Sunday 2/15

Wednesday 2/18

2pm at Central Library, Sacramento Celebrate Chinese New Year with a special musical performance by the River City Chinese Music Ensemble. The music group was established by a combination of local residents and overseas Chinese artists in 2009 and is considered one of the premier Chinese music groups in the region.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

11am-2pm at Allure Salon and Spa, Sacramento Allure Salon and Spa will host a free hair and makeup trends workshop, brought to you by Sacramento Fashion Week 2015. The workshops are designed to educate the public on the trends of the fashion industry. Classes will be instructed

by Missy O’Daniel and Jasmine Cardenas. Please check with the presenting organization or venue to confirm start times and duration.

572-6787 | www.SacFashionWeek.com

Celebrate Chinese New Year with the River City Chinese Music Ensemble

Pipevine Swallowtail

1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael Learn about this beautiful butterfly and its amazing life cycle! Then take a hike with a naturalist to look for the butterfly’s Pipevine plant host with its unique blossoms. $5 per car county entrance fee into Ancil Hoffman Park.

489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net

Monday 2/16 PRESIDENTS DAY Tuesday 2/17 Homework Zone

3:30pm at Franklin Community Library, Elk Grove Drop-in homework help for school-age and high school students is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30-5:30pm. Volunteer homework coaches will be available to assist students in grades K-12 with homework assignments.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

Hair and Makeup Workshop

Thursday 2/19 CHINESE NEW YEAR The Runaway Wok Paper Fans

4pm at Arden-Dimick Library, Sacramento Happy Chinese New Year! “The Runaway Wok,”

by Ying Chang Compestine is a fun twist on a classic Chinese New Year tale, featuring a young Chinese boy who encounters a strange and mischievous character. Join them for a reading of the book and decorate a paper fan of your very own (ages 3 to 12).

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

Friday 2/20

African American Stories with Kirk Waller

4pm at Valley Hi-North Laguna Library, Sacramento Storyteller Kirk Waller presents a lively program of African American stories, legends and myths fusing words, rhythm, music and movement to create a unique storytelling experience.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

Birding for Families

10:30am at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael Bring the family for a birding and nature walk led by a Naturalist and our special guest guides from the Sacramento Audubon Society. Birdwatchers of all levels welcome. Bring your binoculars or borrow theirs! $5 per car county entrance fee into Ancil Hoffman Park.

489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net

Drum and Dance for Joy with Fenix Drum & Dance Company

3:30pm at McKinley Library, Sacramento Celebrate Black History Month with the Fenix Drum and Dance Company as they tell stories and teach traditional African dances around a drum circle. All members of the audience are encouraged to join in the drum circle, use one of the percussion instruments provided and participate in learning dances!

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

Saturday 2/21

A Salute to Mae Jemison: Recycled Spaceship Craft with ArtBeast

2:30pm at Robbie Waters PocketGreenhaven Library, Sacramento Mae Jemison was the first African-American female astronaut. In 1992, she flew into space aboard the Endeavour, becoming the first African-American woman in space. After learning a little about her and the determination and hard work that lead her to literally reach for the stars—build a spacecraft out of “junk”

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materials and a buffet of fun add-ons. Come see how far big dreams can take you! This program is presented by ArtBeast as part of our celebration of Black History Month (recommended for ages 5 to 12).

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

Mud Pies

10am-12pm at Placer Nature Center, Auburn Bring out the boots! Splish splash through the puddles and be ready for the fun a little water in the environment can create! Program is geared toward children 0-5 years of age. Bring a lunch if you would like to stay after the program and enjoy a picnic. Free, thanks to First 5 Placer.

530-878-6053 | www.PlacerNatureCenter.org

Sunday 2/22

4th Annual Getty Owl Run/Walk

7-11:30am at Crocker Park, Sacramento A family-oriented event that includes a quarter mile kids run, a 5K, and a 10K. The Getty Owl Foundation raises awareness for spinal muscular atrophy (the #1 genetic killer of young children), supports families, advocates for affected families, and raises funds for research. All proceeds will benefit Getty Owl Foundation. See website for cost and registration information.

476-3977 | www.GettyOwl.org

Owl Be Seeing You

1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael Uncover the mysteries of owls: what they eat, where they sleep, how they find food and more!

Get a close-up look at a live owl. All ages welcome. $5 per car county entrance fee into Ancil Hoffman Park.

489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net

Tuesday 2/24 Homework Zone

3:30pm at Franklin Community Library, Elk Grove Drop-in homework help for school-age and high school students is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30-5:30pm. Volunteer homework coaches will be available to assist students in grades K-12 with homework assignments.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

Nature Play Hour

11am-12pm at Auburn Regional Park Bring the tiny tykes for an outdoor adventure.

Placer Nature Center staff will guide a nature walk at Auburn Regional Park discovering nature in winter. Program is geared toward children ages 0-5. Meet at the playground off of Quartz Dr. Bring a lunch if you would like to stay after the program and enjoy a picnic. Free, thanks to First 5 Placer.

530-878-6053 | www.PlacerNatureCenter.org

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Wednesday 2/25 Chess Club

4:15pm at Carmichael Library Do you want to learn to play chess? Do you already know how to play? All skill levels are welcome to join this Chess Club! The library will have an instructor to teach beginners. All supplies will be provided. Bring a snack if you like.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

Thursday 2/26

Celebrate African American History Month

4pm at N.Highlands-Antelope Library, Antelope The Food Literacy Center will teach us about famous African American leaders and some of their favorite foods! We will share the cultural foods that we enjoy and make a fresh twist on a classic soul food dish. We will read Whistle for Willie by Ezra Jack Keats. Free admission.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

Friday 2/27 LEGO Mania

3:30pm at Valley Hi-North Laguna Library, Sacramento Come out on the last Friday of every month and build to your heart’s content.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

Saturday 2/28 Color Fun Fest 5K

5-9pm at Cal Expo, Sacramento As day transforms into night and the colorful dust settles from the day run, the strongest black lights in the world will power up to transition our day color run into a night time 5K color-run-festival. After the run celebrate at the finish line with an after party with lots of color and high-voltage dance music. $25 adults, kids run free. http://ColorFunFest5k.com

Just So Puppet Show: A Black History Month Program

2pm at Arcade Library, Sacramento The Puppet Company presents Papa Bois’e Caribbean folk tale hero and protector of the environment who tells and sings new adaptations of two tales from Rudyard Kipling’s “Just So Stories”. Featuring the sounds of a Caribbean jungle and the exciting music of steel drum accompaniment.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

Future Engineers Clay Modeling

1-3pm at California Automobile Museum, Sacramento Children ages 7 to 13 can sign-up for this fun, hands-on Future Engineers Clay Modeling Class! Kids will have the opportunity to create a model car out of clay just like they do it today and peak their interest in the engineering field! Of course, participants also get to keep the model as a souvenir! $15 members, $20 general (includes parent/child).

442-6802 | www.CalAutoMuseum.org

ca mp

Look for the Camp Stamp!

Over the next few issues we’ll be bringing you articles, resources and options for overnight or day camps.

You’ve probably asked yourself the basics: • Is my child ready for camp?

• Have they had a day camp experience before?

• How easily would they adjust to being away from home?

• Has your child had positive overnight experiences away from home?

• Are they showing an interest in the idea of going to camp?

• Are you having to persuade them to consider camp activities?

• What does your child expect to do at camp?

But, learning about camps ahead of time will allow you to create positive expectations and sharing your positive experiences with your child will be contagious.

According to the American Camp Association (www.ACACamps.org), below is a Winter “To-Do” list to help you prepare for summer camp: • Attend Camp Fairs and do your homework • Start the application process • Read and talk with your child about camp • Schedule a camp physical for the spring • Plan travel to and from camp • Start a shopping list for things your camper will need Start planning and look for camp features in the next few issues of Sacramento Parent and visit our camp guide online at www.SacramentoParent.com. sp

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shows All phone numbers are area code 916 unless otherwise noted.

Disney On Ice: Let’s Celebrate!, Sleep Train Arena

Mamma Mia!, Harris Center for the Arts

JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH

Through Feb 15, at Sutter Street Theatre Ronald Dahl’s classic tale is told by James himself and the insect characters—Miss Spider, Old-Green-Grasshopper, Centipede, Ladybird and Earthworm. The play begins at the end of the story, when James and his friends are living in the giant peach stone in Central Park, New York. A tour guide brings a party of tourists (the audience) to see this major attraction, and James and his friends tell the story of how they came to live in New York.

353-1001 | www.SutterStreetTheatre.com

ALWAYS A BRIDESMAID

Through Feb 22, at Chautauqua Playhouse In this hilarious comedic romp, four friends have sworn to keep the promise they made on their prom night; to be in each other’s weddings no matter what. More than thirty years later, these friends-forlife are still making the long walk for each other, determined to honor that vow. If you’ve ever elbowed a stranger out of the way to catch a bride’s bouquet, seriously questioned the mental stability of the duo saying I do, or been forced to wear the world’s ugliest bridesmaid dress, then this comedy is for you!

489-7529 | www.CPlayHouse.org

LOVE LETTERS

Through February 22, at Geery Theatre No one forgets their first love…Andrew Makepeace Ladd III wrote his first letter to Melissa Gardner to tell her she looked like a lost princess—they were both seven years old. For the next fifty years, through personal triumphs and despair, through wars and marriages and children and careers, they poured out the secrets of their hearts to each other. They defied a fate that schemed to keep them apart, and lived through letters—for the one most meaningful thing, their undying love for each other.

448-9019 |www.WJGeeryTheater.com

LENAEA HIGH SCHOOL THEATRE FESTIVAL

Feb 6-8, at Harris Center for the Arts The Lenaea Festival is the largest high school theatre festival of its kind. Established in 1956, the festival was inspired by the acting and playwriting festivals of Ancient Greece. Its mission is to advance the education of high school theatre arts students by offering opportunities to strengthen, promote, and share artistic skills within an interactive and supportive educational environment.

608-6888 | www.HarrisCenter.net

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THE VELVETEEN RABBIT

The Velveteen Rabbit, Sacramento Theatre Company

Feb 6-8, at Sacramento Theatre Company The classic story about how a toy rabbit learns the true meaning of being real. In this enchanting musical, based on the children’s book by Margery Williams, the Velveteen Rabbit earns the love of a young boy and learns about the joys and pains of love, loss, and self-esteem.

446-7501 | www.SacTheatre.org

APRES LE NOEL: OUR AMERICAN JOURNEY

Feb 8, at St. John’s Lutheran Church The Sacramento Children’s Chorus (SCC) will hold its annual mid-winter concert, Apres Le Noel: Our American Journey. The advanced and high school choirs, Cantoris and Capella, will perform under the direction of Lynn Stevens. Special guests, the remarkable Reconciliation Singers Voices of Peace (RSVP), under the direction of Jennifer Reason, will join SCC presenting songs from our American heritage, past and present.

646-1141 | www.SacramentoChildrensChorus.org

PERFECT WEDDING GUIDE BRIDAL SHOW

Feb 8, at McClellan Conference Center Meet over 90 wedding professionals from the greater Sacramento area, as well as from Lake Tahoe and Napa/Sonoma. With a convenient location, free parking, and a myriad of inspiring wedding possibilities to try and taste, this will be the most complete, interactive, and fun wedding planning event of the year!

941-6830 | www.PerfectWeddingGuide.com

MAMMA MIA!

Feb 9-11, at Harris Center for the Arts Fall in love with the characters, the story, and the music that make Mamma Mia the ultimate feel-good show! Writer Catherine Johnson’s funny tale unfolds on a Greek island paradise. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago. The story-telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter, and friendship!

608-6888 | www.HarrisCenter.net

DISNEY ON ICE: LET’S CELEBRATE!

Feb 11-16, at Sleep Train Arena Disney On Ice is throwing the biggest party of the year, and you’re invited. This skating spectacular is a magical medley of holidays, celebrations and festivals from around the world featuring all your favorite Disney friends, including Mickey and Minnie Mouse. They’ll host a Very Merry Unbirthday party with Alice and the Mad Hatter, while Lilo and Stitch celebrate Hawaiian-style with a luau. And don’t forget the Disney Princesses—they’ll be having a Royal Valentine’s Day Ball with Cinderella, Ariel and Tiana on the guest list...and more!

800-745-3000 | www.SleepTrainArena.com

exhibits

business opportunity

All phone numbers are area code 916 unless otherwise noted.

classes

Rosebud Farm by Gregory Kondos from the Crocker-Kingsley Art Competition at Blue Line Arts Gallery

Flash & Flare: The Atomic 50s and 60s at California Automobile Museum

SACRAMENTO MUSEUM DAY

possible impacts of the Choice Neighborhood Initiative on their lives and how they can be advocates in their own community.

A reception will be held on Sunday, February 15, from 12-3pm.

808-1182 www.CrockerArtMuseum.org

February 7, at Various Museums Get ready to discover, explore and appreciate the rich and amazing variety of museums available in the area during the hugely popular “Sacramento Museum Day” As a one day only special opportunity each year, the community is encouraged to visit museums and popular destinations at little or no cost.

Sacramento Museum Day is designed to introduce the community to experience the Capital City’s incredible wealth of art, history, science and wildlife. Visit the website for a list of participating Museums.

808-7777 | www.SacMuseums.org

CROCKER-KINGSLEY ART COMPETITION

Through February 21, at Blue Line Arts Gallery A tightly focused exhibition featuring 75 works and six prize-winners, selected from 1300 California entries for the 2015 Crocker-Kingsley Art Competition. Juror and acclaimed artist, Gregory Kondos, curated this year’s collection and comments that “each exhibit features such strong work.” The works represent a diversity of media ranging from painting, sculpture, and photography from a variety of artist styles that include representational and abstract work.

783-4117 | www.BlueLineArts.org

party

FLASH & FLARE: THE ATOMIC 50s AND 60s

February 14-June 7, at California Automobile Museum In the latter part of the 1940s until the early part of the 1960s, the fin became a fixture in automotive styling, but flying high and skimming through the waters was not on the automobile designers’ minds. I could go on and on concerning the fin styles that were designed, but I won’t. What is really important is that era, and what it meant then and even now. It was a time of prosperity, when our world was fresh and new after the war. The Jet Age was upon us, and we were looking well beyond what our eyes could see into space and the future.

442-6802 | www.CalAutoMuseum.org education

party

language

PHOTOVOICE PROJECT

Feb 13-15 at Crocker Art Museum The “PhotoVoice Project,” a collaboration of Mercy Housing and Sol Collective, engages youth of Alder Grove and Marina Vista in a photography project. Youth photographed their homes and community as they explored the February 2015 | www.SacramentoParent.com

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25 Simple Ways to Show Kids Love Your kids know you love them, right? Of course they do—but, they could always use a few extra strokes or simple reminders of how important they are to you. Try some new ways to say “I love you” this month.

1. Surprise them with a new game on Saturday morning. Enjoy donuts and hot chocolate while learning to play the game. Be sure to include the whole family.

2. Tell them the story of their birth. Show pictures of how they looked as a newborn and talk about who came to visit in the beginning. Make sure they know how excited you were when they entered your life.

By Gayla Grace

15. Ask for their ideas when you plan your next vacation.

Look at fun places to visit on the computer and dream together for future trips.

16. Take off your serious hat and make them laugh. Tell jokes or watch a funny movie together. Tickle them until they cry.

17. Offer a no-rules day. Let your kids stay in their PJ’s all day and eat and play whatever they want.

3. Love them despite their faults. Offer them grace freely and often.

18. Ask your child to sing to you. Join in and finish the song as a duet. Let your child know you love hearing her beautiful voice.

4. Find a unique quality about your child and praise him for it. Whether it’s a sensitive spirit toward a sibling or a quick-to-forgive gesture toward friends, tell him how it makes him special.

19. Surprise them with a simple gift through the mail such as a comic book, a glow-in-the-dark pencil, or their favorite player’s card.

Include a note of “I love you.”

5. Indulge in a child-specific treat and enjoy some one-on-one time together. Ask for input and make plans ahead so your child knows it’s a special occasion.

20. Make s’mores around the fire pit or roast marshmallows in the fireplace.

Include a cup of hot cocoa or favorite beverage with it.

6. Compliment your child in front of another adult.

Be specific with an example of good behavior as you beam with pride.

21. Get to know their friends and encourage healthy friendships. Take everyone out for a movie night or bowling night once in awhile.

7. Praise their efforts, not just results. Don’t expect perfection on every chore or straight-A’s on every report card. Let them know you notice when they do their best.

22. Be their biggest fan. Let them experiment with sporting activities, music lessons, and other extracurricular activities. Cheer them on as they seek to find what fits for them.

8. Let them pick their favorite book and read to them, even when you don’t want to.

23. Allow them to be different from you.

9. Accompany them to walk the dog. Ask about their day at school or a budding friendship. Listen more than you talk.

10. Allow them to be messy. Play with finger paints and play-doh. Go outside and spray silly string on each other.

11. Display their artwork on your refrigerator or window. Talk about what a great job they did and how you love to look at it every day.

12. Put a surprise in their lunch. Include a note that says, “I love you.”

13. Get off social media and completely tune in when they’re talking. Refrain from multi-tasking and focus on their needs.

14. Patiently help with homework. Don’t raise your voice when you have to explain it one more time.

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24. Treat them with respect.

Don’t interrupt when they’re talking. Ask for their opinion as often as possible and include them in family decisions as they get older.

25. Hug, kiss, and shower them with physical affection every day. Tell them at least once a day, “I love you.” sp Gayla Grace is a freelance journalist who is always looking for new ideas on how to show love to her five children.

Books to Help Your Kids Feel Loved You Are Special by Max Lucado Little Things Long Remembered: Making Your Children Feel Special Every Day by Susan Newman 101 Ways to Make Your Child Feel Special by Vicki Lansky Oh, The Places You’ll Go by Dr. Seuss

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Sacramento Parent Magazine

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October 2013

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