parent April 2016
SAMI SAYS
Babies Making Modern Art
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Babies & Bumps
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(THIS WHITE BAR DOESN”S SEEM RIGHT TO ME) sacramentoparent.com APRIL 2016
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Copyright c UC Regents, Davis campus, 2015, All rights reserved.
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on our cover
parent April 2016
Meet Sami, Megan, Christian and his little sister (arriving in May)! For those who’ve experienced Sami’s Circuit, get moving with him at a special appearance at Babies and Bumps on April 9th! If you don’t know Sami, jump to page 12 to see why “you got this!”
CONNECTING FAMILIES FOR 23 YEARS
contents
photographer: Colehearted Photography www.ColeheartedPhotography.com
April 2016
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departments
features
around town
12 NEXT DOOR
11 19 37
33 CALENDAR
Sami says, “You got this!”
27 CAMP
Tips for a Happy Camp Homecoming
Baby Boutique Sneak Peek! Babies Making Modern Art Supporting Chicks in Crisis
39 FUN FINDS
New Spring Board Books for Baby
40 WIN IT April Showers Bring the Cutest Umbrellas!
Babies, Earth Day, & Spring Fun!
42 SHOWS Spring Showcase
43 EXHIBITS 23 35
Sculptures, Portraits & Flowers Don’t let Diabetes get you Down Autism Awareness Events
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dear readers Ahhhhh, April! I adore this month…it’s my youngest daughter’s birthday month, baseball season is in swing and the welcoming spring weather calls us to play outside and soak up the warm sunshine.
publisher | SUE LETO COLE editor-in-chief | SHELLY BOKMAN editor | SHANNON SMITH art directors | PATRICE VAN DAM, Studio PR
JILL LENDAHL, JillLendahl.com
administrative assistant | CHRISTINE QUARRY
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER Colehearted Photography www.ColeheartedPhotography.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Brittany Fuller | Allison Hopkins | Michelle Kopkash Christine Quarry | Laura Lyles Reagan Shannon Smith
ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER
Jenee ´ Watts | (530) 889.6179 jenee@sacramentoparent.com
ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES
Raychell Sarcomo | (530) 889.6175 raychell@sacramentoparent.com Lindsay Trenz | (530) 889.6178 lindsay@sacramentoparent.com Jennifer Caldwell | (530) 889.6176 jennifer@sacramentoparent.com
This issue is loaded with inspirational articles from Rosanna, a pediatric diabetes clinician who’s sending the message that kids with diabetes can and should have normal lives to Sami, who’s championing a love for fitness in kids and the importance of having confidence and a positive body image. Then there’s this place called Jellybeanstreet, where kid’s finger paintings are turned into works of art and posted for sale online. Besides having your mini Picasso’s work turned into modern art—a portion of all sales from your kiddo’s masterpiece will go to the charity of your choice—love it! But, there’s one more reason to love April, too! And that’s Babies and Bumps! Calling all awesome parents, cover cuties (ages 6 months to 6 years), bouncing babies and expecting mamas & papas—mark your calendar and join us at our 8th Annual Babies & Bumps! It’s free, but the local resources are priceless, the giveaways will be nothing short of fabulous, the boutique vendors are one-of-a-kind and the entertainment will have the room jumping all day. The team here at Sac Parent would love to meet you, so we hope you can pop in on April 9th, say hello and have some fun with us!
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Warmly,
Shannon and the Sac Parent team
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.
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Find Something Unique at our Baby Boutique! an t Ba bie s
d Bum p s
Sh o p arday, April 9 • 9am Satu
-2pm
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MISSION r FREE AD munity Cente m o C ights itrus He
Here’s a sneak peek at some of the sweet, unique and hand-made baby items from local crafters. Perfect for baby showers, gifts or for your own delightful kiddos! Don’t miss this unique shopping opportunity at Babies and Bumps!
Kim’s Cute Creations (1) These wrap around the door from one side of the door knob to the other keeping the latch pushed in. This prevents doors from slamming, clicking or even your child locking themselves in a room! See more of Kim’s Cute Creations at www.facebook.com/Kims-Cute-Creations-146747218714868/. $3 (or 2 for $5). Ms. Betty’s Bows (2) You guessed it, Betty has lots of bows! Adorn your daughter’s hair with their favorite characters and celebrate each season in style! The bow pictured is $5 (or 2 for $8). See more of Ms. Betty’s Bows at www.MsBettysBows.com.
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Aviation Baby (3) Fly away with your little pilot with Aviation Baby gear! Created by a mom, veteran, and pilot wife who couldn't find adorable, aviation oriented clothing and accessories for her daughter's passion for flying! The beanie is $15, see more gear for your future pilot at www.facebook.com/Aviation-Baby-143638004715 Bip & Bop (4) Fall in love with the simple elegance of Bip & Bop’s special and meaningful jewelry. Any mom or mom-to-be would cherish these beautiful jewelry pieces. Prices vary, see more at www.BipandBop.com.
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Eazz Wraps (5) This all-in-one baby blanket is made from organic fibers. The blanket not only feels good next to your baby's skin—you'll feel good knowing the soft organic cottons, bamboo, and hemp are gentle on the earth, too. Use for nursing, attach to the frame of your stroller, take it with you anywhere! Prices vary, see more organic baby wraps at www.eazzwraps.com. Picadilly Princess (6) Who doesn’t want to feel like a princess? Well Patty can make everything Princess: Princess Crowns, Halos, Tutus, Wands and Mini Purses! Prices vary, be enchanted at www.facebook.com/PiccadillyPrincess
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next door
Sami’s Circuit is Training Kids Throughout Sacramento By Allison Hopkins Photos By: Colehearted Photography | www.ColeheartedPhotography.com
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next door
It’s not just about exercise. It’s about self-respect and knowing,
You may have heard of Sami. The principal usually sends out a note to pack a water bottle and have your child wear tennis shoes. It’s Sami’s Circuit day! Kids love the 45-minute exercise program—a ‘night club’ feel in the auditorium, with high-energy music and special lighting effects! What you may not know, is that the key message behind Sami’s Circuit isn’t about exercise. In fact, if you were to hang out with Sami for an hour and talk about his program, he probably wouldn’t mention the specific drills he has developed to keep the kids moving the entire time. What he would tell you, is that when he speaks in front of the students during day one of his four-part program, he shares about his childhood struggles with obesity and bullying and what he has learned about the power of self-respect, exercising, and eating healthy. He is there to empower your kids and tell them that, “who you are is amazing right now.” Up on stage, Sami looks like a typical athlete, somebody who probably hits the gym every other day for weights and cardio, counts calories, and avoids gluten. He must be confident, strong, and successful, having made it to 32 years-old with expected achievements—maybe a wife, 2.5 kids, a career, a nice home… The person standing in the auditorium that day has actually experienced a life so dark that it’s hard to describe and painful to retell, avoiding the real names that he’s been called and the thoughts that haunted him. Standing in that auditorium is a person who has survived the worst that elementary and junior high have to offer.
It wasn’t by choice that Sami embarked upon the highly successful adventure that started three years ago. He knew that the story needed to be told and it began with endless hours at Starbucks, writing it all down as a book, before realizing that the true power would come by speaking it. Sharing his story in front of hundreds of kids was terrifying to him and the first few times didn’t go well. Without his wife, Megan, in the back of the room encouraging him along, and in fact signing him up in the first place, he wouldn’t be where he is today. Sami is speaking to thousands of kids (kindergarten through eighth grade) in the greater Sacramento area and is so busy that there are 15 schools on the waiting list. “When I first started, my wife came to every assembly, because I was scared out of my mind,” says Sami. “She was my foundation; she would tell me, You are meant for this.” Sami grew up in Roseville and at the age of eight, things started changing for him as he gained weight and felt rejection from his peers. Kids were making fun of him and it was evident that he couldn’t keep up in sports, being laughed at regularly when he tried. While neighbors played outside, Sami was the one sitting on the couch, and this became his habit. He spent a lot of time at his grandfather’s house, where food was love and pasta and meatballs meant going back for seconds and thirds. This was his favorite place. “Eating was always an easy thing for me to go to,” says Sami. “All my rejection…I dealt with it by eating. I would drink six Continued on page 15 sacramentoparent.com APRIL 2016 13
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next door
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sodas a day, watch TV, and play video games. I started getting more and more depressed.”
Sami quickly lost 30 pounds without realizing it, and felt his first of many accomplishments.
During this time, Sami’s parents got divorced, his father moved out, his mother worked late hours, and he felt lost trying to figure out how to handle all of the pain. By the time he got into high school, he weighed 300 pounds. He had long hair pulled back into a pony tail with shaved sides, wore raggedy jeans and baggy shirts, and would walk around looking down at the ground. He obsessed about being popular and prayed that he could be skinny.
“From that day forward, when Donny came to pick me up, I ran out front,” says Sami, who lost 100 pounds within a year and became a physical trainer just a few years later. “He became my best friend, my father figure, and my brother.”
“When you are told every day that you are nothing, you’re nobody, you’re a fat piece of crap, you’ll never amount to anything, get away from us, nobody likes you…that’s your reality and nobody was telling me any different,” says Sami. “I would look in the mirror and I would see myself and say, ‘I am what they say I am. I am disgusting.’ People would make fun of me and I wouldn’t even fight back. I would just take it.”
It was at this point that a family friend named Donny came into Sami’s life, physically forcing him off the couch to join him at the gym. Sami kicked and screamed and fought back as much as he could, and lost. “For the first time, when I looked over at Donny, I didn’t hate myself as much because now I hated him,” says Sami. “Next thing I knew, he was teaching me how to take all my pain that I had from kids making fun of me and transfer that into the gym.”
Today Sami is teaching other kids how to handle their pain and feel pride in their achievements, while at the same time sparking a positive association with fitness and health. Kids listen to his story in schoolwide assemblies, participate in adaptable exercises (sit-ups, ladder drills, step-ups, etc.) during the sessions that follow, and many of the elementary students attend a family night that is offered as the final step. “I tell the kids, tonight is an experience I wish I had growing up,” says Sami. “Every one of you is meant for something amazing but you are not going to get there alone…look at the person next to you and tell them I believe in you.” Continued on page 17
Sami’s self-esteem program has reached more than 35,000 kids from 77 different schools in just three years. sacramentoparent.com APRIL 2016 15
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next door Sami continued from page 15
Q&A with Sami PEOPLE REFER TO YOU AS THE ‘EXERCISE GUY.’ HOW DO YOU REACT? I don’t really think of myself as the exercise guy. I use the exercise as a way to create an atmosphere for kids to feel happy and comfortable, to say “I believe in you” and other positive comments to everyone around them.
YOU HAVE A TODDLER AND A BABY ON THE WAY…WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON BEING DAD? I feel like I was meant to be a dad. It was something I ran away from for a long time because, you know, you doubt yourself. I am able to realize the power I have as a person…now I realize the power I have as a parent.
WHAT DO YOU WANT TO TELL YOUR SON, CHRISTIAN? I was told a million times that I was nobody. I want to tell him a million times that he’s amazing, that he’s a great guy, that he’s awesome, that I love him.
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER DADS? When I go to music class, there’s no dads in there. Get to those mommy events… those things you would normally miss because you are in a 9 to 5.
PARENTS REACH OUT TO YOU WHEN THEIR KIDS ARE BEING BULLIED. WHAT DO YOU SAY? Many seem to be looking for the right answer to help their kids when they drop them off to train with me. I’ve realized it’s a problem I can’t solve and that kids go back to their same habits when they leave. It starts with you—you have the power to create a foundation that nobody can tear down.
KIDS OF ALL AGES ARE INSPIRED BY YOU. AT 32 YEARS OLD, WHO IS YOUR HERO? Mr. Rogers. He was telling kids that you’ve already won. There’s nobody like you. Allison Hopkins has been a freelance writer and editor in the Sacramento area since 2002. She enjoys spending time with her husband and son, a soon to be eight-year-old. She is also an aunt to four special nephews and one spectacular niece!
Sami is releasing a children’s book in Fall 2016 titled “Sami vs. the Negative Voice,” aimed at young readers, kindergarteners and up. It’s about a kid who feels like he doesn’t fit in no matter how hard he tries. Eventually his inner, negative voice sort of “comes to life” as a monster that follows him around, preventing him from being happy. Learn more about Sami at www.samiscircuit.com.
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Finger Painting for Charity Jellybeanstreet comes to Sacramento By Brittany Fuller
“Before having my children I was a teacher, and I loved it,” says Sarah Hodges, Creative Director of Jellybeanstreet Sacramento. “One of the reasons I am so excited about Jellybeanstreet is that it taps into my greatest passions; children, education, family, and giving back.” Jellybeanstreet was created three years ago by Ian and Marisa March of Australia. The couple had been trying to come up with a creative way to keep their preschoolers finger paintings. Ian March, a talented graphic designer, decided to take all the finger paintings and transform them into a work of art that could be displayed in their home. When Jellybeanstreet first started, families would have to send in their child’s paintings to be transformed. A year and a half later Ian and Marisa March started holding workshops in order for the little ones to create their works of art. Just this year Jellybeanstreet has expanded, and now offers locations in; Dallas, Alabama, Orange County, and Sacramento. The artwork that is produced in these workshops is available for sale on every continent. Hodges is Creative Director of the Sacramento region. Before becoming a stay-at-home mother she was a teacher, and also holds a Masters in Teaching Leadership. She has three children; Emma age three, Jack age two, and Sam who will be turning one in May. Hodges and her children have always been involved in the community with “Mommy and Me” classes, and many other extracurricular activities. These outings helped this stay-at-home mother to stay connected to her teacher side. Hodges became involved with Jellybeanstreet last summer after an advertisement popped up in her Facebook newsfeed. “I love doing these things with my children, because I love spending time with them. I know it is crucial for their development in so many ways,” exclaims Hodges. “Jellybeanstreet was looking for creative directors in the United States that could hold one hour art workshops. I thought, one hour, I could do that! Teach, I really can do that,” says Hodges. The creative director of Sacramento explains that Jellybeanstreet specializes in ages zero to nine, although they try to include all age groups that wish to participate. Workshops are located at local; BusyKidz, Hobby Lobby, and Fancy Feet Dance Studio’s. Parents book their child a one hour interactive and guided art workshop. After the workshop, high-resolution shots of the child’s artwork are sent off to Jellybeanstreet graphic designers, where it is transformed into three different custom designs. The child’s artwork is offered for sale to the families, and also added to the online Jellybeanstreet gallery for others to view and purchase. When the parent purchases the artwork a percentage of the profit goes to a charity of the parents choosing. When others view and purchase the artwork from the online gallery, like grandparent’s or other art enthusiasts, up to 60 percent of profits are donated to the charity of choice on resale of a child’s artwork.
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Jellybeanstreet continued from page 19
“I use bright and colorful, non-toxic washable paint and kid-friendly tools. Some of the tools I use are; balloons, balls, trains, cars, rolling pins, whisks, cups, toothbrushes and combs,” explains Hodges. “As a teacher I understand the importance of structuring a class in a way that makes it engaging and fun for children of all ages” There are four age groups to select when booking a workshop; Baby and Toddler, Pre-school, School age, and all ages/Family. Each workshop is conducted in a different manor for age appropriate development. The creative director states this is because she wants to structure her workshops in a way that can help her artists develop their thinking and social skills. “I have the children communicate the effects of using certain tools compared to using other tools. Another strategy that I use is to ask the students to experiment with what happens when mixing different colors. When the children compare, they are developing their critical thinking skills, observation, analysis, drawing conclusions, communication, etc,” Hodges expresses. Alicia Davis of Carmichael recently took her daughter and son to a Jellybeanstreet workshop in the Sacramento area. The Carmichael resident says she learned new ways in which to engage her children in painting at home.
also be holding two private workshops. One is called “Daddy and Me,” where Dads will be purchasing the canvases for their wives Mother’s Day gifts. The other private event is an effort to raise money for a 15 year-old girl with an inoperable brain tumor. Hodges also wants people to know that Jellybeanstreet is available for private workshops, fundraisers, and birthday parties.
“The class has an original approach, inspiring youngsters to be creative and artistic by employing music, story time, and imagination,” says Davis. “Jellybeanstreet fills a much needed niche for creative kids in our community. We left with a few more tricks up our sleeves and a beautiful painting…I can’t wait to see the final image created by their graphic designer team. Very impressed! I highly recommend it!”
“I hope Jellybeanstreet can bring awareness to how important it is to the cognitive development of children,” says Hodges. “We know art helps with the development of fine and gross motor skills. It is also important in the cognitive and social development of children. As well as a child’s; confidence, creativity, innovation, observation, problem solving, critical thinking and reasoning, and their communication and language development.”
In April, Hodges has two public workshops scheduled for the 1st and the 15th at BusyKidz (the workshops are $30). She will
For more information or to book a workshop please visit usa.jellybeanstreet.com. Or contact Sarah Hodges at Sarah@jellybeanstreet.com.
Brittany is a journalist from Lincoln, who writes on a variety of topics and just finished work on her first novel. She loves writing, gardening, working out, and any time she can escape to the beach. See more of her work and updates at brittanyfuller.org.
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Rosanna’s Helping Children Navigate Pediatric Diabetes By Michelle Kopkash
Rosanna Hannum is one of those people that changes the way a person thinks. In the hour that I spent interviewing her, I not only learned about the amazing impact she’s had on local pediatric patients through her work at Sutter Children’s Center in Sacramento, but I learned a lesson or two about having a more positive outlook on life and the attitude it takes to overcome challenges. Throughout her 21-year career at Sutter Sacramento as a nurse, she has helped over 10,000 children in Northern California—from Tahoe to the Oregon border—to confront and triumph over the challenging, and sometimes life-threatening, diagnoses of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Today, Rosanna is the lead clinical nurse coordinator for Sutter Sacramento’s Pediatric Endocrinology & Nutrition Services (PENS) department, where she oversees the pediatric diabetes, pulmonary, cardiology and gastrointestinal clinics. Perhaps it is her own struggle with type 1 diabetes, her naturally sunny disposition (or a combination of the two) that has made her such a strong and passionate role model for local kids and teens. And as if that wasn’t inspiring enough, she leads a happy and adventurous family life with her husband of 18 years, Colin, and her 13-year-old son Zachary. Read on to find out about her compassionate career and “can do” attitude.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A PEDIATRIC NURSE?
have a normal life and that diabetes will not stop them.
I love kids. I think it has a lot to do with me having diabetes too. I always remembered my first nurse when I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 13. She taught me how to take care of myself. She was so kind. She was one of those people you never forget and that stuck with me.
One day, Sutter asked if I wanted to work in the PENS group full-time. It just felt like the universe was in alignment.
When I was 17 years-old, I declared my intent to be a nurse. By 23, I was one. I worked in the pediatric floor at Sutter for about five years. My favorite cases were the diabetes patients because I felt I could offer the kids and parents relief by saying, “Hey, I have it too. I’m okay.” It feels good to let them know they can
DESCRIBE A DAY-IN-THE-LIFE OF ROSANNA AT WORK. I see kids individually to coach them and support them in their diabetes management. I work as a team with a dietician and a social worker. My job as the lead clinical nurse coordinator is to check who is on the schedule each morning and review their cases. I then meet with the patients and look at blood sugar numbers, talk about the right equipment…maybe the patient needs a new
insulin pump, for instance. A lot of times, these kids are just tired of managing diabetes every day. What they need most is the motivation to continue forward so they can successfully manage their health. I help to support them in their mission. I also run a really fun teen group, where they get together and help one another find the motivation to take care of themselves and solve problems.
HOW DID YOU FIND OUT YOU HAD DIABETES AS A CHILD? I started losing a lot of weight and getting really tired. Everyone in my family started to notice. Then one day, I went to a pool Continued on page 25 sacramentoparent.com APRIL 2016 23
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Diabetes continued from page 23
party and was too cold to get into the water. My mom, who had just talked with her friend about my symptoms and realized it might be diabetes, called me while I was at the party and said, “Don’t eat the cake! You might have diabetes!” I still ate it because I knew it might be my last slice for a while. Next thing I knew, I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, which meant my pancreas had stopped making insulin. I was immediately hospitalized for about a week and put on insulin.
WHAT WAS ONE OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU HAD TO OVERCOME WITH DIABETES? When I was first diagnosed, all I heard was what I couldn’t do. But I was stubborn. I figured out how I could do things without it affecting my health by testing my blood sugar after activities. One of the things I had to overcome was being embarrassed to tell people I had diabetes. I was even afraid to tell my husband when we first met. Now, I teach patients that there’s nothing to be embarrassed about. It’s just a part of who you are.
WHEN CHILDREN ARE FIRST DIAGNOSED WITH DIABETES, WHAT IS IT LIKE FOR THEM? It depends on their age and their temperament. To be honest, most of the stress at first comes from the parents because they’ve got so many concerns and questions. The younger kids might be scared, especially the young ones who have to get accustomed to having shots after every meal. Teens might experience denial. There are many stages of grief one can experience. I help support them through the stages.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH DIABETES? When parents find out that their child is sick, they’re so nervous. They become the “diabetes police” out of natural concern for their child. Try not to interrogate your child all the time. It doesn’t feel good as a kid. Obviously, the parents are doing this from a place of love, but I’d encourage them to not cross-examine their child constantly about blood sugars. Instead, ask from a supportive stance so you can work together as a team. This will keep the conversation open. Rather than reacting emotionally to blood sugar numbers, stay neutral so that your child doesn’t start to attach emotions to the number. This can create guilt when the blood sugar is off and it can be exhausting for a child to take on their parent’s emotions. View the blood sugar numbers as high, low or in-range, rather than good versus bad. Also, don’t tell them what they can’t do. Teach them how they can still do things and live a normal life by preparing for activities and using their insulin.
WHAT IS LIFE LIKE ON YOUR HOME FRONT? My husband, Colin and my son, Zachary and I are very busy. We live on the river so we like walking along the water or paddle boarding together as a family.
We also have a camper because we love adventure. We go to Kirkwood to ski or we mountain bike on the weekends. We also spend a lot of time with my sister. As a release, I also love to exercise, dance and read. The main message I’d love to get across is that a lot of kids give up because they’re afraid to try new activities. They shouldn’t. Like me, they can get a good handle on life. You can do it.
HOW DO YOU STAY SO POSITIVE? I just tend to be a positive person. I try to let go of things that don’t serve me well and live in the moment. I enjoy reading inspirational books like Eckhart Tolle’s, “The Power of Now” so that I can be reminded to be present in the moment. When I get stuck in my head, I remind myself that it’s not productive. Also, I learned to be positive while growing up by watching my dad, who is incredibly positive. And my mom encouraged me to be responsible, independent and strong. You have to keep your chin up and focus on the light. Michelle Kopkash is publisher of Macaroni Kid Roseville-Rocklin-Lincoln-Granite Bay, a free local e-newsletter and website for parents featuring local activities, events and places to find your family fun each week, www.rosevilleca. macaronikid.com.
If you could give advice to children who have recently been diagnosed with diabetes, what would that be? Don’t feel guilty. Also, be open with your friends about your diagnosis. Research shows that your friends are some of your biggest cheerleaders (after your parents). Having the support of your friends is so uplifting. sacramentoparent.com APRIL 2016 25
Wilderness Camp for Deaf Children
Sponsored by the Lions Club of California This Camp is FREE.
Scholarships provided by the Lions Clubs of California.
THE WEEK OF AUGUST 7-13, 2016 Live-in Camp
Camp Ross Relles in Nevada City, California
Campers 7-15 Deaf Hard of hearing CODA (child of a deaf adult) Focus of camp is to encourage campers to use gain confidence, independence, and self-expression while using their ASL skills.
Activities Planned: Learning about the outdoors and nature, canoeing, hiking, fishing, campfires, horseback riding, games, basketball, volleyball, crafts, and we also explore a gold mining tunnel built by early miners.
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CAMP
Tips for a Happy Camp Homecoming By Laura Lyles Reagan
te We got chocola ! fast cake for break
Whenever my children came back from a visit to their grandparents’ house (usually for a week in the summer) they came back with stories of new experiences and fun. I witnessed developmental leaps as a result. They came back more independent with larger vocabularies. They were certainly closer to their grandparents. They also came home almost a little too bold and confident for my taste.
Grandma took us swimming every day.
I understood that they had been free of their usual chores. Nearly every desire and whim had been heard and attended for a whole week so they seemed to know a new power. Returning to our normal nuclear family order was sometimes a struggle because the kids would test the boundaries. We called it grandma-itis, even though I mowed t h e y ard grandpa was equally guilty. with Gra
ndp riding la a (on the My kids seemed to have similar issues when they came home from summer camp. I wn mowe r). called it camp-itis. They had wonderful stories about their new experiences but we I can dri ve now! had a bit of friction as we reconnected and our schedules returned to our family’s homeostasis. They were used to greater independence and I was used to more control.
I learned to expect the transition period and not judge it negatively. My children
These are a few things parents had positive new experiences to share like canoeing and making new friends. Being might hear as symptomatic of around kids from diverse backgrounds, they had picked up new habits, mannerisms camp-itis: and words. Camp stretched them. It seemed as if they came home, knowing more and My bedtime was later at camp. being bolder. We cleaned our cabin only every TIPS TO AVOID CAMP-ITIS other day. Here are a few things I tried to ease the transition from camp to home. Not every tip We had popcorn every night for a works for every child. Children are different and have their own personalities. Some snack every afternoon and evening. children may come home tired and be a little grumpier. Some kids may come home I want popcorn! with an agenda of all the things they missed or things that they want to change about their routines. Continued on page 31 sacramentoparent.com APRIL 2016 27
Summer Day Camp PreK - 8th Grade June 13th - August 19th
Reduced Weekly Rates • Extended Childcare Included Meet new friends! Enjoy lots of fun activities to interest everyone. A variety of subjects and topics presented throughout summer, including: • Science • Computers • Games • Crafts • Academic Programs for Reading & Math • Sports Program
All activities are to help students strengthen both academic and athletic skills over the summer months while having a great time!
NOW ENROLLING!
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CAMP
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Homecoming continued from page 27
1.) Have a home coming celebration. Make a “Welcome Home” sign and cook your child’s favorite foods or take them out to their favorite restaurant. 2.) Plan some listening time. Use open ended questions to prompt sharing. • What was your favorite camp activity? • What was your least favorite thing to do? • Tell me about your best camp friend? • Who was your favorite counselor? • What did you like about your favorite counselor? • What new thing did you try? • Do you want to go back next year or do you want to try something else? Be careful not to interrogate though. Don’t be probing. Remember to respect their boundaries. What they answer is sufficient. If they want to share more, kids will usually do so. Space the open ended questions throughout several conversations. 3.) Affirm new skills including new communication skills while being clear about boundaries.
CAMP Returning Camper: Shanda calls her dad by his first name— think dad would go for that? Mom: Well, I call my stepdad by his first name but I didn’t grow up with him like you did with your dad. I think dad likes being called dad. Talk to him about it. 4.) Encourage your child’s new found independence by allowing them to make more independent choices about how to use their time. Example: I need the laundry folded, the dog fed (he really missed you) and the trash taken out. You have all morning before we meet your dad for lunch. Whatever order you do it in is fine. 5.) Return to usual chores, schedules and responsibilities with patience, but without indulgence. 6.) Be sure to talk a little bit about what you and younger siblings did while your camper was away. It’s important your child learn you have a life away from them too. Laura Reagan-Porras is a parenting journalist and parenting coach. She can be reached through her website at, www.heart2heartparents.com.
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calendar
! l i r p A
April is delivering big around town! Join the fun from Babies and Bumps and Earth Day celebrations to spring festivals and autism awareness events! Be sure to visit our calendar at SacramentoParent.com to find even more super events in the area!
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.
1 FRIDAY
26th Annual Creek Week Various times and locations Sacramento Area Creeks Council presents environmental activities and family-friendly environmental outreach throughout the month of April! 454-4544 | www.CreekWeek.net Just Between Friends Spring/Summer Sale Various times at Folsom Sports Complex Folsom’s Just Between Friends Spring/Summer Sale is back again! You do not want to miss out on the opportunity to save 50-90% off retail on everything you could possibly need for your children! www.Folsom.jbfsale.com
2 SATURDAY
Earth Fest 9am at the Sacramento Zoo It’s a party for the planet! Learn how to protect and preserve the earth with environmental, wildlife and conservation organizations. During the day, visit EdZOOcation Stations to explore animal bio-artifacts, come face-to-face with the outreach animals, or watch a variety of cultural performances. 808-5888 | www.SacZoo.org Meet a Scientist (4/2-3) 12:30pm at Discovery Museum Science & Space Center Visit the Powerhouse Science Center Discovery Museum Campus this weekend to meet some amazing scientists. They’ll be sharing their research and offering a hands-on activity to connect you with current science in the community. 808-3942 | www.TheDiscovery.org Wonderful Watershed 10:30am at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael Take a hike to the river and learn all about its journey, see what kinds of animals are living in and along its edge, and find out how you can keep our local waterways healthy and clean. 489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net
3 SUNDAY
Kids & Company Gallery Adventure 10:30am at Crocker Art Museum, Sacramento Amusing and educational, this tour is the perfect way to introduce art to children ages 5 and
older (and the adults who tag along with them) in a fun and playful manner. 808-1182 | www.CrockerArtMuseum.org
5 TUESDAY
Artful Tot 10:30am at Crocker Art Museum, Sacramento Toddlers explore art-making with different materials in new ways, from printmaking and color mixing to clay and fabric. Adults learn how to encourage experimentation and self-expression while nurturing their child’s creativity. Families are welcome to arrive anytime during this dropin program (dress for mess). 808-1182 | www.CrockerArtMuseum.org
6 WEDNESDAY
Sing Along with Mister Cooper (see him at Babies and Bumps, 4/9 too!) 4pm at Belle Cooledge Library, Sacramento Join neighborhood favorite, Mr. Cooper for 30 minutes of music time and freeze dancing for ages 3 to 7 years. 264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org
7 THURSDAY
Wild Things, Inc. 4pm at N.Highlands-Antelope Library Don’t miss this opportunity to see live animals—some rare and endangered species—up close at this fun and educational free event. 264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org
8 FRIDAY
The Carnival Mask with Magical Moonshine Theater 3:30pm at McKinley Library, Sacramento Celebrate Dia de los Niños with the library as Magical Moonshine Theater presents the puppet show, The Carnival Mask. This Mexican folktale told in both Spanish and English tells the story of townspeople, robbers and heroes in a Mexican village. 264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org
9 SATURDAY
8th Annual Babies and Bumps 9am at the Citrus Heights Community Center Sacramento Parent invites you to celebrate babies, motherhood, and families for the 8th year in a row. There will be over 50 exhibitors a Boutique, live entertainment, fairies, clowns, face painters, and more. Goodie bags for the first 500 and everyone will receive raffle tickets
for a chance to win awesome prizes. We’ll also be looking for our 2016 Cover Kid, so bring your little ones and join us for a day of family fun. 530-888-0573 | www.sacramentoparent. com/babies--bumps.html Doggy Dash and Bark at the Park Festival 9am at William Land Park, Sacramento It’s Sacramento SPCA’s 23rd Annual Doggy Dash and Bark at the Park Festival, where an estimated 5,000 animal enthusiasts will gather both with and without their canine companions to raise funds for animals sheltered at the Sacramento SPCA. 504-2802 | www.SSPCA.convio.net
10 SUNDAY
Festival for Kids 10am at Cal Expo A fun-filled day of family entertainment featuring science shows, wild animals, jugglers, a bounce house and special guests. 263-3000 | www.FestivalForKids.net Powerful Pollinators 1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael Who’s responsible for most of the delicious fruits and vegetables we eat? Pollinators! Learn all about the different creature forms pollinators come in, explore the Nature Center’s incredible insect collection. 489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net
13 WEDNESDAY
Yisrael Farm Presents Garden Fun for Kids! 11am at Rancho Cordova Library Get your hands dirty and have lots of fun in the garden! Learn what to grow and help plant; cultivate vegetables and join in the harvest. Save your seeds to keep organic farming flourishing in our community! 264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org
14 THURSDAY
El día de los niños with the Poodlums! 4pm at N.Highlands-Antelope Library Celebrate children and reading with the Poodlums! 264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org
15 FRIDAY
Earth Day Terrariums 4:30pm at Arcade Library, Sacramento Teens, join the library for some awesome Earth Day-themed activities! 264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org sacramentoparent.com APRIL 2016 33
34 APRIL 2016 sacramentoparent.com
calendar
16 SATURDAY
Birding for Families 10:30am at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael Take the family out for a birding and nature walk led by a Naturalist and special guest guides from the Sacramento Audubon Society. Be sure to take your binoculars, or they can loan you a pair. 489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net Snarly Saber-tooths 12:30pm at Discovery Museum Science & Space Center They’re highlighting a favorite—the snarly Saber-tooth cat. Enjoy a replica skull in the Blast from the Past exhibit. After constructing a mask, kids might snarl and growl like a real saber-tooth. 808-3942 | www.TheDiscovery.org
17 SUNDAY
Superhero Fun Run 7am at Maidu Park, Roseville Whether you are new to running or you want to make your Sunday run a selfless act, this event is for you. Don’t forget to dress as your favorite superhero! 632-8407 | www.StarSacramento.org/ FunRun ZooZoom 8am at Sacramento Zoo Can you run like a Zebra? There are options for everyone from a 5K run/walk (3.1 miles) to a 10K run (6.2 miles). The 5K run/walk and 10K run will lead participants through beautiful Land Park and finish near the back entrance to the Zoo. Proceeds will go towards animal care and enrichment. 442-3338 | www.SacZoo.org
22 FRIDAY
Earth Day Festivities & Grand Opening of Flower Farm Nursery & Gifts 11am at Flower Farm Nursery, Loomis Celebrate Earth Day with a fun, family-friendly Earth Day Scavenger Hunt (for children ages 1 to 12). There will also be garden tours, gardening workshops, wellness classes and special café menu items featuring fruit and vegetables grown on their farm. 652-5650 | www.FlowerFarmInn.com
23 SATURDAY
Earth Day Crafts 2pm at Arcade Library, Sacramento It’s Earth Day! Use recycled materials to make fun and useful objects, like a jump rope or planter. 264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org Earth Day Walk 10:30am at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael Take time to appreciate the beauty of Mother Nature this Earth Day with a hike. Join a Naturalist as they explore the variety of local wildlife and plants that call this oak woodland home. 489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net
Kids’ Expo 10am at El Dorado County Fairgrounds This free event for children up to age 10 is all outdoors and includes hands-on activities and performances. Enjoy a fun day with the family and learn about the many community family resources available. 530-676-0707 | www.Choices4Children.org Spaghetti & Meatball Mash 5pm at Auburn Elks Lodge Presented by Horses for Healing, bring the whole family and enjoy an evening full of good fun, food and music. The B-Drivers from the Bay Area will perform all of your favorite classic rock songs live! Don’t miss this opportunity to take advantage of wonderful items in the silent auction and enjoy a delicious dessert from their bake sale. 530-887-9573 | www.HorsesForHealing.com Sutter Children’s Center Wellness Festival 11am at Fairytale Town, Sacramento Celebrate active and healthy living at the Sutter Children’s Center Wellness Festival! Enjoy free play, games, healthy fun and more. Sutter’s medical personnel will be on hand to answer questions and provide information on healthy child development. Plus, local health organizations will be offering activities, games and information on healthy lifestyles. Admission is free. 808-7462 | www.FairytaleTown.org
24 SUNDAY
Under the Oaks 1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael Our mighty oak trees provide food and shelter for many animals and insects. Learn how to identify different varieties of oak trees in the Nature Preserve and who might be living in them. 489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net
28 THURSDAY
Storytime at the Zoo 10:30am at Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary Head to the zoo for story time featuring special zoo puppets! Hear stories about and meet a live zoo animal up close. 351-3527 | www.FolsomZooFriends.org
30 SATURDAY
25th Anniversary Celebration 10am at Placer Nature Center, Auburn Enjoy a day of fun, music, live animal presentations, and learning for the whole family. Gold Country Wildlife Rescue will be attending with their Wildlife Ambassadors. Amazing Animal World will be bringing their Education Animals. 530-878-6053 | www.PlacerNatureCenter.org 27th Annual Kids Day in the Park 11am at Hagan Park, Rancho Cordova Enjoy free fun on the farm activities, a petting zoo, Hay Rides, Ag-Ventureland, art activities, bike rodeo, train rides, entertainment, parent resources, health screenings and more! 273-5704 | www.CordovaCouncil.org ARD Fishing Derby 5:30am at Regional Park, Auburn Take the family out bright and early for this competition! www.AuburnRec.com Dare to Prepare Day 11am at Citrus Town Center and Sunrise Mall, Citrus Heights Prepare yourself and family for any disaster or emergency with this one-of-a-kind, interactive event. Enjoy a Kid’s Safety Zone, Earthquake Simulator, Food Trucks, special mini-classes on preparedness for Pet Owners, Families, Seniors/ Special Needs groups and Small Business Owners. 536-9267 | www.DareToPrepareDay.com
It’s National Autism Awareness Month and here’s what’s happening around town! 4/5 • Sensory Bounce 6pm at Bounce U, Roseville A special open bounce for children with Sensory Integration Dysfunction, Autism, and other disabilities with a sensory component. Reservations recommended. 783-4386 | www.BounceU.com 4/13 • Beary Special Play Date 5pm at Sacramento Children’s Museum, Rancho Cordova Families with children with special needs: Join the museum every second Wednesday of the month for a Beary Special Play Date! Of course, friends and siblings are very welcome, too. 638-7225 | www.SacKids.org 4/19 • ExplorAbility 8am at Sacramento Children’s Museum, Rancho Cordova ExplorAbility is a free program for children on the autism spectrum, ages 3 to 5, offering opportunities to participate in small group sessions within a structured program featuring professionals from a variety of disciplines. This is an RSVP-Only event as space is limited to 20
participants per event. 638-7225 x 103 | www.SacKids.org 4/23 • Autism Family Friendly Movie 10:30am at Sylvan Oaks Library, Citrus Heights A special family movie event for kids with autism and/or sensory disorders. “Typical” toddlers and Preschoolers are welcome too! This month: “Hotel Transylvania 2” (2015, PG, 89 min, Columbia Pictures). There will be healthy snacks, the lights will be slightly up, the sound will be slightly down, there will be lots of fidget toys and kids don’t need to remain seated while enjoying the movie! 264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org 4/23 • FEAT Walk & Spring Carnival 9am at Maidu Community Park, Roseville FEATS walk has been moved to April 23, to coincide with National Autism Awareness Month. Don’t miss out on raffles, games, bounce houses, food, silly photo balloon animals, magic show, face painting and much more! www.Walk.Feat.org sacramentoparent.com APRIL 2016 35
Carden School of Sacramento
A Distinctive Alternative in Classical Education
36 APRIL 2016 sacramentoparent.com
Sac Parent Gives Back
April’s an extra special month for Sacramento Parent, as the event we eagerly anticipate all year, Babies and Bumps finally arrives! We look forward to seeing the familiar faces and growing families that come out year after year—but, if you have missed it in years past and you are expecting and/or have kids 6 years-old and under— we invite you to bring family and friends and come experience this year’s event! Originally conceptualized as a community baby shower to celebrate new and expecting parents throughout Greater Sacramento— families began to flock to the free event and it has evolved into a wonderful day of family fun with activities for all! We are so excited and can’t wait to see you there! 8th Annual Babies and Bumps Saturday, April 9th | 9am-2pm Free | Citrus Heights Community Center www.BabiesandBumps.net In addition to over 50 exhibitors, a boutique fair of hand-crafted and unique items, Sacramento Parent’s Cover Kid Search and live and ongoing entertainment including fairies, princesses, clowns, face painters and crowd favorites like Mr. Cooper Sami’s Circuit and Music Matt, we are proud to give back to a local charity each year. This year a portion of the proceeds will benefit Chicks in Crisis. Chicks in Crisis serves women and families in the Elk Grove/Greater Sacramento area by providing them with the items they need. They work with more than 475 “households” each month and last year they helped 5,394 households, 3,054 children, gave out 15,540 diapers, 9,605 wipes, 9,794 items of clothing and 110 cases of formula! To learn more about Babies and Bumps and/or Chicks in Crisis visit, www.BabiesandBumps.net and www.ChicksinCrisis.org.
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38 APRIL 2016 sacramentoparent.com
fun finds
Spring Board Book Picks for Little Readers! 1.
WIN IT!
Share classic children’s book characters and adorable new favorites with your little readers this spring. The following board books and young picture books are charming and perfect for baby showers, birthdays, and even Easter baskets! Bonus: we’re giving them away on April 9th at Babies & Bumps, too!
8th Annual Babies and Bumps April 9, 2016 | 9am-2pm FREE in Citrus Heights BabiesandBumps.net
THE HUEYS: WHAT’S THE OPPOSITE by Oliver Jeffers
A hilarious opposites book for the youngest reader from the #1 bestselling illustrator of THE DAY THE CRAYONS QUIT. Follow along with the Hueys as they learn about being unlucky and lucky, what is half full and half empty, and more in this silly opposites board book.
2.
CORDUROY’S COLORS by MaryJo Scott and illustrated by Lisa McCue, Created by Don Freeman
Join Corduroy in exploring all the colors of the garden, from a yellow butterfly to a green caterpillar to a gray bird. With minimal text, bright illustrations, and a loveable character, this board book is perfect for even the youngest reader.
LITTLE OWL’S DAY by Divya Srinivasan 3.
An enchanting follow-up to the wildly popular Little Owl’s Night, LITTLE OWL’S DAY follows nocturnal Little Owl as he tries to sleep during the day. But Squirrel just won’t be quiet and his chattering wakes Little Owl up for his first sight of the sun. It’s just too exciting to go back to bed, so Little Owl flies through the forest and meadows that he knows so well. Only now, everything looks so different! Flowers are open, and Bear is actually awake...and shows Little Owl his first-ever rainbow.
P IS FOR PETER by Beatrix Potter
In this beautiful, charming board book, Peter Rabbit and his friends introduce the alphabet. Artistic and lyrical, this is a perfect introduction to the world of Beatrix Potter for young readers and a great gift to give at baby showers, birthdays, and Easter.
4.
SPOT LOVES BEDTIME by Eric Hill
Snuggle up and get ready for bed with your favorite puppy Spot in this adorable bedtime board book! Spot is ready to get into bed and go to sleep, but he can’t find his teddy bear. How can Spot go to sleep without his favorite toy? This simple, reassuring story is perfect for sharing at bedtime with young readers, and it makes for a perfect baby shower or birthday gift.
Here’s more info and where you can find them! The Huey’s: What’s the Opposite: www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/310702/the-hueys-whats-the-opposite-by-oliver-jeffers-illustrated-by-oliver-jeffers/9780399257704/ Corduroy’s Colors: www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/317189/corduroys-colors-by-maryjo-scott-illustrated-by-lisa-mccue/9780451472472/
5.
Little Owl’s Day: www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/315222/little-owls-day-by-divya-srinivasan-illustrated-bydivya-srinivasan/ P is for Peter: www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/541801/p-is-for-peter-by-beatrix-potter/ Spot Loves Bedtime: www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/530086/spot-loves-bedtime-by-eric-hill/ sacramentoparent.com APRIL 2016 39
WIN IT!
April Showers Bring May Flowers! We think these umbrellas are adorable—so enter to win by 4/15 and let us shower you with cuteness!
Sacramentoʻs Super Party Center!
$25 OFF
COME JOIN THE PARTY! ALL AGES & THEMES
OPEN PLAY
Tuesday-Friday 9-11am, & Friday 6-9pm
40 APRIL 2016 sacramentoparent.com
ANY BOUNCE PARTY
Coupon must be used at time of booking. Expires 04/30/16
Visit www.TheBounceSpot.com For information about our upcoming SUMMER CAMPS!
916.371.2386
2939 Promenade St., W. Sacramento
www.TheBounceSpot.com
PARTY
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• Private Sewing Lessons • Career Technical Education • Fashion Industry Training
FOR MORE INFO:
(916) 476-6092 11275 Sunrise Gold Cir., Ste A www.afi-pa.com Rancho Cordova afi-pa@ageefashioninstitute.com
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Call Us Today! 530.888.0573 Jenee@SacramentoParent.com
WE BELIEVE IN A HEALTHY FUTURE
Kaiser Permanente is proud to partner with Babies and Bumps to celebrate parenthood, pregnancy, and babies. Together, we are working to ensure that everyone has a healthy future.
kp.org/greatersacramento sacramentoparent.com APRIL 2016 41
calendar/shows
All phone numbers are area code (916) unless otherwise noted
Alice in Wonderland
April 16-May 22 at B Street Theatre, Sacramento Don’t be late for these very important dates! Head down the rabbit hole in this original adaptation by Buck Busfield. 443-5300 | www.BStreetTheatre.org
Beauty and the Beast
April 9 through May at Sacramento City College Presented by Storytime Theatre of Sacramento City College! Enjoy the timeless classic for half-off on opening day! 558-2174 | www.CityTheatre.net
Newsies
April 12-17 at Community Center Theater, Sacramento They delivered the papers, until they made the headlines; direct from Broadway comes, “Newsies.” Filled with one heart-pounding number after another, it’s a high-energy explosion of song and dance you just don’t want to miss. 808-5181 | www.SacramentoCommunityCenterTheater.com
On Golden Pond
April 15-24 at Lincoln Theatre Company “On Golden Pond” will be an outstanding show under the direction of a highly respected director, Diane C. Bartlett. You will find it full of humor and loving moments. 409-7030 | www.LincolnTheatreCompany.org
Sleeping Beauty in Space
April 16-24 at Fairytale Town The Fairytale Town Troupers present the classic tale of "Sleeping Beauty" reimagined as an epic space adventure in an action-packed setting. Once upon a time, a long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away, a benevolent group of star fairies discover a very special child adrift in deep space and decide to raise her as one of their own. 808-7462 | www.FairytaleTown.org
The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes
April 9-May 8 at Sutter Street Theatre, Folsom Sutter Street Theatre is reprising their 2012 production of “The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes.” Join Sherlock as he battles the nefarious, Dr. Moriarty. Directed and staged by the award winning Mike Jimena, and written by B Street Theatre’s, Jerry Montoya, this show will appeal to all as Sherlock investigates and unravels another mystery. 353-1001 | www.SutterStreetTheatre.com
The Boy Who Cried Wolf
April 2-3 at Fairytale Town In this zany version of the classic tale by Puppet Art Theater Company, a boy is bored watching his lamb and decides to make things more exciting by turning on his dad's wolf alarm, the "Wolf Alert 3000." Tricking his dad is all fun and games until a real wolf shows up. Will the audience help the boy escape? 808-7462 | www.FairytaleTown.org
The Story of Sleeping Beauty
April 15-17 at The Center at Twenty-Three Hundred, Sacramento Crockett-Deane Ballet Company and the Deane Dance Center present its annual spring production. This year it is “The Story of Sleeping Beauty.” The ballet has beautiful costumes, experienced dancers, with the traditional choreography of Marius Petipa and additional choreography by Don Schwennesen. Act III will be especially enjoyed by children as characters from traditional fairy tales will dance at the wedding scene. 443-0517 | www.DeaneDanceCenter.com
Host a Magical Birthday Party! Choose from 5 packages!
More information & reservations: www.fairytaletown.org (916) 808-7062 42 APRIL 2016 sacramentoparent.com
calendar/exhibits
All phone numbers are area code (916) unless otherwise noted
30 Ceramic Sculptors April 13-May 14 at John Natsoulas Gallery, Davis This exhibition was first conceived in 1986, a collaboration between the late Robert Arneson and John Natsoulas, and continues the ceramic traditions made famous by instructors and students of the University of California, Davis Art Department and the University of California, Davis and local ceramic artists. 530-756-3938 | www.Natsoulas.com High School Self-Portrait Show April 7-May 22 at Crocker Art Museum, Sacramento Comprised of artworks in diverse media, this exhibition presents an exploration of self. A longtime Sacramento tradition, the Crocker Art Museum is honored to showcase the self-portraits of high school artists within our region in collaboration with Chalk it Up! and Christian Brothers High School. 808-1182 | www.CrockerArtMuseum.org
Bloom 2 Through April 19 at Pence Gallery, Davis Back by popular demand, Bloom 2 brings together paintings, textiles, and sculptures of eight regional artists who have a deep preoccupation with flowers and floral imagery. As a subject matter, these artists delve into how specific types of plants resonate with meaning, both personal and cultural. 530-758-3370 | www.PenceGallery.org
Remembering Our Fallen from California April 11-22 at the California Museum, Sacramento Serving as a testament of the ultimate sacrifice paid by state’s military personnel, this memorial honors 710 Californians who have perished in war. The traveling exhibit was produced by Bellevue University and Patriotic Productions and features free admission. 653-7524 | www.CaliforniaMuseum.org Spring Flowers April 1-31 at Kennedy Gallery, Sacramento Spring showers bring spring flowers and what better way to honor them than admiring beautiful works of art reflecting the beauty of spring. 716-7050 | www.KennedyGallerySac.com
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PARENTS, ARE YOU PREPARED? SATURDAY, APRIL 30, 2016 | 11AM - 3PM Don’t miss the region’s largest family friendly emergency preparedness event at Sunrise Mall & Citrus Town Center on the corner of Sunrise & Greenback in Citrus Heights.
FREE EVENT | TWO LOCATIONS
• KID ZONE • MEET THE COWARDLY LION & SPARKY • KIDS FINGER PRINTING • FIRE SAFETY TIPS FOR CHILDREN
• EARTHQUAKE SIMULATOR • FOOD TRUCKS • EXHIBITS • PREPAREDNESS CLASSES & DEMONSTRATIONS
MEDIA PARTNER:
FREE SHUTTLE SERVICE BETWEEN CENTERS COURTESY OF:
Visit daretoprepareday.com for more information.