Sacramento Parent May 2018

parent May 2018

HOT DATE DESTINATIONS

Gifts for Every Mom CAMP ISSUE sacramentoparent.com

COPING WITH ALLERGIES

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parent

on our cover

May 2018

Mila and mommy love to have fun together at the park and​at​dance class. Mommy and Daddy are having another baby so Mila is getting promoted to big sister this year! ​She could not be more excited as you can see by the look on her face in this photo​!​

Photographer: Colehearted Photography www.ColeheartedPhotography.com

contents MAY 2018

13 departments

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WIN IT! LEGOLAND® California Resort

11 CRAFTY

Mother’s Day Photo Box

25 CAMP

Summer Fun Without Leaving Town

22

37

features

around town

13 15 16 18

Gift Ideas for Every Type of Mom

38 CALENDAR

37 42

7 Types of Swimmers

Sweet Spring Happenings

Meaningful Work as a SAHM Hot Date Destinations

Helping Your Kids Cope with Allergies

40 SHOWS In The Spotlight

41 EXHIBITS See and Learn

Luv2Camp: Glamping Made Easy

special advertising section

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Preparing for College with Diabetes

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CAMP ISSUE 4

MAY 2018 sacramentoparent.com

Special-Fit: Exercise Programs for All Abilities

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Explore Great Local Day Camps

sacramentoparent.com MAY 2018

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Individualized Hands-On Learning Comprehensive core subject matter Project based life and social sciences’ curricula Practical life skills at all ages Art, Music, P.E., & Enrichment Classes

WWW.GBMONTESSORI.COM

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May is a reminder that summer is right around the corner and as I watch our family calendar overflow with sports, band concerts, open houses and other end-of-year school functions; I realize that it’s time to look ahead and do some planning for summer vacation, too.

co-publisher | SUE LETO COLE co-publisher | SHELLY BOKMAN editor | SHANNON SMITH art directors | PATRICE VAN DAM

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JILL LENDAHL, JillLendahl.com contributing writers: Angela Borchert | Leann Dickinson Michelle Kopkash | Candace Lai Sumiti Mehta | Christa Melnyk Hines Meagan Ruffing | Shannon Smith Kaleb Wallen | Diana Watkins contributing photographer: Colehearted Photography www.ColeHeartedPhotography.com

advertising executives: LINDSAY TRENZ | (530) 889.6178 lindsay@sacramentoparent.com CHERYL WAPLES | (530) 889.6176 cheryl@sacramentoparent.com

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Shelly Bokman | (530) 889.6175 shelly@sacramentoparent.com CALENDAR & WEBSITE calendar@sacramentoparent.com EVENTS events@sacramentoparent.com

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You’ll find some memorable summer excursion ideas in this issue, from a LEGOLAND® California Resort ticket giveaway to a fabulous coastal getaway option for those who love to camp, but don’t have a travel trailer.

As I mentioned my overflowing calendar, I personally look forward to some much needed downtime as we roll into summer break. There may be days when the kids are in pajamas until noon or floating in the pool all day. But, I also love scheduling some fun day camps for my girls, so they can explore what they love and try out new experiences (bonus: I get a little “me time”). If you’re considering local camps you’ll want to register soon and we’ve made it easy with a list of great local options for all interests.

Don’t forget to spoil Mom this month, too! We’ve got that covered in this issue with a personalized craft to gift ideas for every type of Mom. Happy Mother’s Day!

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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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CAMP WOOLMAN A Friends (Quaker) Camp since 2004.

Located in the beautiful Sierra Nevada foothills near the wild and scenic Yuba River and Tahoe National Forest, Camp Woolman is a place where every day is an adventure!

CAMP DATES: Jun 24 - Aug 4 AGES: 9 years - 17 years (Scholarships available) • One-week and Two-week programs • Fresh, organic food (mostly vegetarian) • Beautiful 236-acre campus with hiking trails, ponds and meadows • Weekly 3-day backpacking trips • Inclusive and accepting of every child “My kids loved their two weeks at Camp Woolman, and can’t wait to return next summer. They enjoyed meeting new people, the cool staff, the healthy veg food and hiking opportunities.

A great place to connect with others and enjoy nature.

Highly recommended!” - J.K.

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let’s go

WHO WANTS TO GO TO LEGOLAND® CALIFORNIA RESORT THIS SUMMER?

Enter today at SacramentoParent.com!

LEGO fans won’t want to miss this Sacramento Parent giveaway.

Win a family four-pack of 2-day park hopper tickets to LEGOLAND® California, SEA LIFE Aquarium and LEGOLAND® Water Park! If you haven’t been there in a while, there are some exciting new additions to the park, like the grand opening of North America’s First LEGOLAND® Castle Hotel and an interactive Deep Sea Adventure submarine ride coming soon!

If you want to feel like a royal family, consider booking a reservation to stay at the brand new LEGOLAND® Castle Hotel, where every brick is bursting with LEGO enchantment and captivating tales of Kingdoms from distant lands! Choose from Royal Princess, Knights and Dragons, and Magic Wizard themes when booking your stay in the 250-room castle filled with more than 2,000 LEGO models! Enjoy a feast at Dragons Den before heading into the courtyard to enjoy the daily entertainment.

This giveaway will make a perfect early June Father’s Day gift where the young and young-at-heart can experience LEGO® STAR WARS™ Days. Enjoy the thrill of the galaxy with awesome activities such as the LEGO Star Wars™ Family Build Challenge, LEGO Star Wars™ Miniland Scavenger Hunt, Jedi™ Trivia, costume contests and much more! LEGO Star Wars™ Days is included with Park admission on June 2-3 and June 9-10.

Photos courtesy of LEGOLAND® California Resort.

If you’re looking to get away for Independence Day, Red, White and Boom! Rocks LEGOLAND® California Resort on July 4th! Throughout the day, kids of all ages can participate in all-American family picnic games like tossing water-balloons, burlap sack races, patriotic costume contests and building activities. The fireworks show begins at 8:30pm and combines patriotic music with dazzling pyrotechnics. Red White and Boom! is also included with Park admission.

If the fun dates above don’t work with your schedule, plan your visit in the late summer months to experience the new LEGO® City: Deep Sea Adventure submarine ride featuring real sharks, rays and fish along with LEGO® divers and a shipwreck. You will also search for lost sunken treasure and gems during your interactive underwater adventure!

The LEGOLAND® Castle Hotel is now available for booking. For more information visit www.LEGOLAND.com or call 760-918-LEGO (5436). Park admission information: Kids 3–12 $93; Adults $99; Parking $20.

For information: (760) 918-LEGO (5436) or www.LEGOLAND.com.

WIN IT!

Sacramento Parent is giving away four, 2-Day park hopper tickets to LEGOLAND® California, SEA LIFE Aquarium and LEGOLAND® Water Park. The winner will be responsible for making arrangements for accommodations and transportation. The lucky winner will be drawn on May 10, 2018. sacramentoparent.com MAY 2018

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Mother’s Day Photo Box

By Lady DIY

Over the years, I’ve received all sorts of homemade gifts for Mother’s Day. Without a doubt, my favorite gifts are the ones that really capture my kids’ personalities at that time. This month’s crafty project is a great way to showcase your family and your favorite photos.

Supplies Needed: 1 piece of colored or decorative cardstock* 4 small photos (smaller than 2 inches) Ruler Pencil Scissors Glue stick *Cardstock comes in different weights or thicknesses. A thicker cardstock is recommended for this project (it makes a studier photo box).

Directions: Step 1: On the back side of the cardstock, use a pencil and ruler to draw six squares, connected as shown.

Each square is 2” by 2”.

Step 2: Add “tabs” to the three squares as shown.

Step 3: Writing lightly, add the numbers and arrows as shown. This step is optional, but it will make assembly of the box much easier! Don’t worry, all of the writing will end up on the inside of the finished project.

Step 4: Cut out the box.

Step 5: Fold along all lines, folding in towards the back side of the cardstock. A quick and easy way to do this is to fold the cardstock along the side of the ruler.

Step 6: On the decorative side of the cardstock, glue the pictures to squares 1, 2, 4 and 5. The arrows point to what will be the top of the finished box, so you can use the arrows to help you orient your pictures. (The top of each photo should be facing the same direction as the upward-facing arrow.)

Step 7: Assemble the box. Working with one tab at a time, apply glue to the decorative side of each tab.

Connect the sides in the following order: Square 1 to square 4 Square 4 to square 5 Square 4 to square 6 Square 6 to square 1 Square 2 to squares 1, 5, and 6 (for this step, you’ll need to apply glue to all three remaining tabs.)

You’re done! As an optional step, you can add a note to the top of the box: “Happy Mother’s Day!” or “2018”.

Lady DIY lives in Rocklin and stays home with her three boys. When she’s not too busy with DIY projects around the house, she enjoys gardening, fitness and living the glamorous life of a baseball/soccer/football mom. sacramentoparent.com MAY 2018 11

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Mother’s Day for Every Kind of Mom

By Meagan Ruffing

Who doesn’t love a good ole’ fashioned handmade card and an armful of roses? I sure do. Think about it. Mother’s Day is the one day out of the entire year where moms actually get their own holiday. It’s a day that represents love, thankfulness and an overall appreciation for every time we’ve gone above and beyond the human capabilities of what we ourselves think we cannot do. Mother’s Day looks different for each mom out there but the meaning behind the day remains universal among us all; moms are amazing. Simply put. What type of mom are you?

For the ‘Spa Mom’ – Most spas offer some sort of discounted package for Mother’s Day. Don’t see one listed on their website? No problem. Pick up the phone and call to double check. Spa managers are happy to accommodate all types of budgets; especially when mom is the receiver.

For the ‘Sporty Mom’ – Take your wife to your local running store to have her feet professionally measured and analyzed so that she is sure to get the right kind of sneakers for the right kind of workout. This is something that moms don’t feel like they have the time to do but secretly want to do because their feet are oh so achy. A cute workout outfit can’t hurt either. There’s nothing like heading to your favorite Barre class in your new spandex leggings and tank top.

For the ‘Simplistic Mom’ – Do you have a mom or wife who likes to keep things simple? She enjoys the basics of everyday life and doesn’t like to fuss over flowers or chocolates? No problem. Even the most laid back, simplistic mom needs a little TLC on Mother’s Day. Treat her to breakfast in bed, a handmade card from all the kids or an afternoon nap coupled with the lights off and the door closed – no interruptions allowed.

For the ‘Super Mom’ – I think we’re all super moms in our own ways but for the moms who seem to be able to do it all and do it all really well without breaking a sweat, the bar can be pretty high. I like to pull out the big surprises for these types of moms because really, they usually have a to-do list and know exactly who’s going where, what’s going on and what’s for dinner the night before they ever need to know. So, here’s the plan. Send her away for the day. Take the day off if you are the husband reading this and surprise her with a day out. When she wakes up in the morning, eat breakfast together as a family and tell her you have a few things planned for her. She will love this. You could even take it a step further and turn it into a scavenger hunt. Give her one note that says, “Your first clue is waiting for you where you brew your coffee each morning.” The ideas are endless. This type of day serves more than one purpose. First, it lets her know that you’re thinking about her. Second, it lets her know that she matters and third, it’s fun. And who doesn’t need a little fun in their lives?

For the ‘Tired Mom’ – I think we’re all a little bit tired these days but you know the moms I’m talking about. These moms have a lot of kids, or have recently had a baby and don’t sleep much at night. These moms need a break…so give her exactly that. Let her have the whole house to herself. You take the kid(s) and leave. the. house.

When moms are tired, the last thing they want to do is think about getting ready and going somewhere. Trust me, I dreamt about this very thing when I had my very first baby. Best. Gift. Ever.

For the ‘New Mom’ – Yay! This mom just had her first baby and is still glowing from the crazy hormones. These moms are the easiest to please because they’re so overwhelmed by their new precious bambino that nothing can burst their bubble. Get her a cute necklace with the baby’s name and birthstone or make a little collage book with pictures from your first days home with the baby. Yes dads, you can do this. Just grab a couple of pictures and glue them into a pretty little book, write some words next to them and voila! You have a perfect and meaningful gift that you can give to your wife and pass down to your child someday. (This mom would love the craft in this month’s issue, too!)

Mother’s Day continued on page 14

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Mother’s Day continued from page 13

For the ‘Pregnant Mom’ – Whether this is your first pregnancy or fifth, being pregnant takes Mother’s Day to a whole new level. Your hormonal, tired, overwhelmed (maybe) and don’t really know what you want. That’s okay. Pregnant moms always enjoy a date with their husbands. Schedule a night out and enjoy each other’s company. If you have other kids at home, get a babysitter or ask grandma and grandpa to watch them for a few hours. Your wife will love the fact that she can sneak in some alone time with you before the new baby arrives.

For the ‘Romantic Mom’ – I think we all secretly want some sort of romance in our lives. This mom likes the dozen red roses, heartfelt card and chocolates in a foil-wrapped heart-shaped box. You might even throw in a few balloons and a stuffed teddy bear that says “I love you”. These are the easiest moms to buy for on Mother’s Day but for some reason, husbands often miss the mark.

Spend the extra few dollars and take her out to dinner. You don’t have to bust the budget but think outside of the box and if going out to eat is not in the finances, have a picnic inside on your living room floor. Now that’s romantic.

Guys, Mother’s Day is May 13th this year and this list will give you plenty of ideas to get things rolling. Moms, you might leave this article somewhere around the house where you think (wink, wink) your husband might notice it. A little help in the idea department never hurt anyone. Because really, the whole purpose behind Mother’s Day is to acknowledge moms for the amazing people they are.

Meagan Ruffing is a parenting journalist and mother to three. She enjoys encouraging moms everywhere and does just that in her debut book, “I See You: Helping Moms Go from Overwhelmed to In Control”. Follow her on Facebook at writermeaganruffing and at www.meaganruffing.com.

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My Meaningful Work as a Stay at Home Mom

By Sumiti Mehta

When I made the decision to be a stay at home mom, it was because I wanted to be the one to greet my kids after school and be available for things like homework and school projects. Yes, it was a financial sacrifice, but it has been worth it.

I know my husband feels the pressure to support our family, as a Senior Manager with a leading global professional services company; he has long hours, and big teams in the United States and India.

Seeing how hard he works, I feel obligated to do the majority of the housework, not because we are landing in traditional Indian gender roles, but because I actually have more time. I know this is helpful (and while there are so many things that are important in my role as a stay at home mom), I sometimes have this annoying sense of fading confidence telling me I will have tough time re-entering the workforce in the future. I realize I haven’t quite truly faced my fear of “What will I do when it’s time to go back to work?”. Fortunately, our finances are not dire and I appreciate that I am able to stay home. Especially considering that an enormous number of families in the United States do not even have the option to consider staying home with their kids.

to the real world. It seems that they have it all; putting in a full day of work and then heading straight to evening school events with smiles on their faces, outfits, makeup and hair intact, while I’ve spent my whole day at home doing stuff around the house or running errands. I have close friends who work full time and are incredibly accomplished and well-respected in their fields and community.

They have children too, and they are genuinely good parents. They seem to have everything, while I only have half.

I do love being there for my boys, for their school presentations and activities.

I feel satisfied that I can help them with their homework, school projects, volunteer regularly in their classrooms and at their school; get to know their friends and teachers. But can I put these on my

resume? The answer is, no. Do I worry about not being able to re-enter the workforce smoothly? The answer to this question is, YES! I worry about it a lot.

My choice to be a stay at home mom has been a great leap of faith, trusting that everything will work out in the future.

As for the right now, what matters most is my meaningful work for my family and that I have been and I am here for my kids. I think stay at home moms need to be reminded that what they are doing is important and that is why they chose to do it. I have set out to raise two fine young boys, and that’s a huge accomplishment. For now, I hope my meaningful work will continue with good, compassionate and happy children who grow to be respectful, responsible, kind and happy men.

There are and have been times while looking at friends and women I meet, I feel a bit envious of their careers, the escape from their families and their alternate lives of “meaningful work”. They are career-oriented women who are contributing Sumiti is a Natomas based mother of two boys, ages 6 and 12. She is a very involved parent and community member and has been nominated three times for NFactor Community awards for her work with kids, schools and the community. She also volunteers as a tutor for a non-profit organization, "Reading Partners Sacramento". On weekends and holidays, her family loves to take hiking trips. sacramentoparent.com MAY 2018 15

Hot Date Destinations

By Michelle Kopkash

Dust off your best shoes, slip into your favorite outfit and head out for a romantic date with your significant other, celebrating the partnership that makes your family complete. From top-notch restaurants and lively bars to a growing cultural scene, Sacramento and Placer Counties have it all. The following establishments will satisfy your cravings for romance and fun, please your taste buds and leave your hearts full after time together with your better half.

The Rind | 1801 L Street, Suite 40, Sacramento, TheRindSacramento.com If you only have an hour or two to escape with your partner, head to The Rind, where your cheesiest dreams will come true. This sophisticated, cheese-centric bar offers the best cheese boards and cheese-infused artisan foods around, as well as a few heavier staple dishes—like macaroni and cheese—to fill hungrier bellies. Its wide selection of noteworthy wines, beers on tap and bubbly makes this the perfect venue for a romantic toast to your significant other.

Photo courtesy of The Rind.

Ella Dining Room and Bar | 1131 K Street (Corner of 12th & K Street), Sacramento, EllaDiningRoomAndBar.com Ask any local for date spot recommendations and there’s a good chance they’ll rave about Ella. Rated “four out of four stars” by the Sacramento Bee, this elegant restaurant boasts locally sourced, farm fresh ingredients in its mouth-watering entrees, created by some of the area’s most talented chefs. The menu features American and French recipes, including the pan roasted king salmon, seared scallops and maple brined pork chops. Whether you’re ordering from the bar’s delicious happy hour menu or eating in the fine dining section, this is an excellent choice for special occasions.

Dono Dal Cielo Vineyard | 6100 Wise Road, Newcastle, DonoDalCielo.com This winery is set on an amazing estate and is an ideal setting for a daytime date.

With spectacular views of vineyards and rolling hills, you’ll feel like you’ve escaped to a faraway land. Sip on a variety of refreshing white wine selections in the tasting room while listening to live music—which is scheduled regularly throughout the spring and summer months—and then head outdoors to take advantage of the well-manicured grounds with a romantic picnic.

The Chef’s Table | 6843 Lonetree Blvd. Ste 103, Rocklin, TheChefsTableRocklin.com A date night here must be planned well in advance, as this venue books several months out. The tiny hole-in-the-wall establishment is more than meets the eye, and continuously renews its claim to fame with its ever-changing, off-the-wall culinary experiments that awaken the diner’s senses and curiosity. Daring daters might even skip the reservation and try to find a seat at the bar, which serves a delectable menu of its own.

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Farmhaus Fresh | 8230 Auburn Folsom Road, Granite Bay, FarmhausFresh.com Early birds will love the relaxed country atmosphere of Farmhaus. Inside, you’ll find yourself seated at cozy wooden tables with simple farmhouse decorations. Or, you might choose to lounge on the patio during summer months, where live musicians frequently play to the delight of dinner guests. Though it’s well-known for scrumptious brunch and lunch menus, couples will enjoy the romantic dinner atmosphere, feasting on menu selections like roast beef tenderloin, vegetable risotto or chicken breast pot roast au jus. Check the website for daily times.

Paul Martin’s American Grill | 1455 Eureka Road, Roseville, PaulMartinsAmericanGrill.com You can’t go wrong at Paul Martin’s. The food is fabulous, the menu is extensive, the drinks are delicious and the atmosphere is hip and lively. It’s really the perfect date spot for couples who are looking for a vibrant scene. The mesquite grilled, hand-carved steaks and meats, fish entrees and robust salads won’t disappoint. The happy hour menu is impressive as well.

Pyramid Bar & Grill | 2305 Clubhouse Drive, Rocklin, www.WhitneyOaksGolf.com In the warmer months, there’s no better place to dine outdoors than on the patio of the Whitney Oaks Golf Club clubhouse, nestled amongst rolling hills with a view of the sprawling golf course and oak trees. If you come on a Friday between April and September, you’ll enjoy live jazz music on the deck.

This casual restaurant offers a full bar, including 12 beers on tap and tasty dishes like bacon wrapped filet mignon, crab cakes and prime rib.

Below are a few other highly recommended date spots:

Photo courtesy of Pyramid Bar & Grill.

Bandera For the best rotisserie chicken and fresh baked bread in Sacramento, head here, but not before checking the dress code.

BanderaRestaurants.com Revival Located on the roof of the Kimpton Sawyer Hotel, right next to the Golden 1 Center, this indoor-outdoor bar is one of the newest lounges to hit the Sacramento nightlife scene. It features live music, weekend pool parties, bottle service, delicious bar food and a fully stocked bar. RevivalSacramento.com Serenity Spa & Soul Yoga Refresh yourselves with a yoga class in the tranquil yoga studio, followed by a romantic couple’s massage at this esteemed spa. SerenitySpaOnline.com Carpe Vino This cozy, award-winning restaurant and bar is located inside a historic building in Old Town Auburn. The ambiance and food make this date spot well worth the drive. CarpeVinoAuburn.com Crocker Art Museum Eat a light lunch at the Crocker Art Museum Cafe, followed by a romantic walk around the museum’s exquisite exhibits. www.CrockerArt.org Michelle Kopkash is a local blogger and author-in-the-making who loves to write about parenting topics, mom life and the goodness of God. She’s also a church chaplain who survives on coffee, her kid’s snuggles and prayer. Visit michellekopkash.com or follow her on instagram and Twitter.

sacramentoparent.com MAY 2018 17

Helping Your Children Cope With Allergies

By Candace Lai

The season for sniffles and achoos has arrived.

This can be difficult because waiting for the bus, walking to school and playing outside at recess and after school may be part of their routine.

Avoiding prolonged exposure when pollen counts are highest is key.

More than 40 percent of U.S. children suffer from allergies.

The most common are reactions to seasonal indoor/ outdoor allergens, including those caused by pollen from trees (spring), grasses (summer), weeds (fall), mold spores and other sources.

I have found that Pollen.com is a great source for information. Hot dry days typically have the highest counts, and windy days are particularly bad because breezes stir ground and tree irritants. Early morning hours between 5am and 10am are when conditions are worst.

Seasonal allergies in children can often start as early as three years old and peak in children at 10 to 12 years-old, after which the body’s immune response is better equipped to fight off irritants. For many in Sacramento, this problem extends into adolescence, and adulthood because we are located in a valley that is surrounded by agricultural fields.

Here are some recommendations I provide at MinuteClinic that will help you recognize allergy symptoms, limit your family members’ exposure, and determine the best medications and treatment to stay healthy.

Recognizing the Symptoms Until you learn the tell-tale signs that your child is affected by allergies, parents typically associate the symptoms with a cold or sinus infection.

In many ways they are similar, but strong seasonal allergy indicators begin the same time every spring and summer.

They are marked by a constant itchy and runny nose with clear discharge, eye redness and tearing and excessive sneezing.

18 MAY 2018 sacramentoparent.com

Keeping house and car windows closed and running air conditioning on high pollen days is a good practice.

Pick out a cool pair of sunglasses with your child to prevent particles from blowing in their eyes. Using nasal saline sprays and eye drops several times a day will help to flush out allergens.

Keeping Pollen Outside Other common clues are crustiness in the eyes and allergic shiners (dark areas) caused by constant nasal congestion and rubbing itchy eyes.

Medical professionals may also spot swelling and redness in the nasal cavity.

Children treated for atopic dermatitis (itchy skin inflammation) are also likely to have seasonal allergy issues.

Limiting Exposure For youngsters experiencing allergy discomfort, the first course of treatment should be limiting their exposure to allergens.

There’s a lot you can do to keep pollen outdoors and in its place.

When it’s time to come inside, have your kids remove their shoes in the garage.

If they’ve been playing in the yard, take off their clothes and place them in the washing machine.

Regular baths and showers may not be their favorite activity, but it’s an important step to stay allergen and pollen-free.

Focus your attention on their bedroom and living areas they use most. Frequent vacuuming is needed, and for the highly allergic, consider removing carpet in favor of hardwood floors or tiles. Wash bedding on a regular basis.

For the little ones, stuffed animals can be particle magnets. Keep them washed and stored away until bedtime or after allergy season.

Pets are also pollen collectors. Wash their paws when they come inside. Brush their coats and clean them regularly. Consider limiting their outdoor time as well on high pollen days.

Providing Relief Over the counter allergy medications are extremely effective in providing youngsters relief.

Beginning treatment two to four weeks in advance of when allergy symptoms typically first appear helps to reduce and

block histamines that cause inflammation and allergy symptoms.

Start with one of the common antihistamines in the allergy aisle at your pharmacy. Liquid, chewable and non-drowsy options for kids are available.

If after four weeks these are not effective, move to one of the nasal steroid sprays appropriate for children. Final options may be a stronger prescription medication or immunotherapy therapy (allergy shots) from an allergist.

Your pharmacist, pediatrician or a retail clinic practitioner can help you choose the best course of treatment for your family and recommend important allergy avoidance measures.

Candace Lai is a nurse practitioner who lives in Sacramento and works at the MinuteClinic locations inside CVS Pharmacy stores in Sacramento and Fair Oaks.

CAMP BOW WOW DOGGY DAY CARE AND BOARDING

Dogs Paws-itively Love Camp!

BENEFITS OF CAMP: Provides regular exercise to maintain a healthy body weight Relieves boredome, seperation anxiety and destructive behavior at home Improves socialization with dogs and people

Bring this coupon and get

$5.00 OFF any service.

Expires 5/31/18

Get Your First Day FREE! (interview day) Camp Bow Wow Elk Grove 9263 Bendel Place, Elk Grove, CA 95624 | campbowwow.com/elkgrove 916-685-4590 Valid only at Camp Bow Wow Elk Grove. New customers only. Camper must be spayed or neutered (if over 6 months) and be current on all vaccinations, including Rabies, Distemper and Bordetella. Offer not valid on holidays and cannot be combined with any other discount or package. CODE: SACPARENT_AD Expires 5/31/18

sacramentoparent.com MAY 2018 19

Summer at Jesuit JUNE 11 - JULY 20, 2018 PROGRAMS AVAILABLE FOR BOYS & GIRLS GRADES 1 THROUGH 12

REGISTER TODAY!

summeratjesuit.com

20 MAY 2018 sacramentoparent.com

it High School Jesu est. 1963

Yes2College: A Free Resource Program for Kids and Teens with Diabetes

By Angela Borchert

Megan pictured with Dr. Prakasam

CCHAT coordinates & refers as appropriate with physicians, other health professionals, school personnel and those involved in hearing aid fittings to ensure your infant’s total hearing healthcare needs are met.

We inform referring physicians and professionals of audiologic evaluation results and recommendations a s well as coordinate professional services as required.

Make outpatient appointments by calling 916-361-7290 www.cchatsacramento.org

Raising a child with special needs?

Sacramento Parent is here to encourage, support and connect you with resources and other parents.

Megan Dang wants to attend college on the East Coast. She is going to Belgium for two weeks this summer.

comes empowerment. Megan was tasked with organizing this year’s Yes2College event.

There was a time, however, when just going to a sleepover at a friend’s house was completely out of the question. Why? Megan, a 16-year-old junior at Rio Americano High School, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes when she was 3 years old. The condition requires constant monitoring of her blood sugar.

Yes2College is a program that focuses on providing the necessary resources for navigating high school life and the college admissions process to children and teenagers with diabetes. The event takes place on May 12 at Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento’s Buhler Specialty Pavilion from 8am-2pm. Dr. Prakasam sponsors the event, in its 10th year, and chose Megan as this year’s organizer.

Growing up, Megan’s parents insisted on checking her blood sugar themselves.

They came to school or had the school nurse do it. But then, Megan’s endocrinologist stepped in. Pediatric Endocrinologist Gnanagurudasan Prakasam, M.D., medical director, pediatric diabetes, Sutter Children’s Center, Sacramento, told her parents it was time for her to learn how to test her blood sugar and administer insulin on her own. She was just 10 years old.

“I am so thankful for Dr. Prakasam,” said Megan. “He’s helped me so much as I got older. He told everyone that they had to trust me.” Megan says having diabetes forced her to grow up quicker because she was responsible for her health. Just running around at recess or having a piece of cake at a party required her to test her blood sugar. But with great responsibility,

“It’s a great opportunity for me to host this event,” she said. “It really helps everyone with this chronic disease connect with one another to share challenges and experiences.” This year’s panel includes college students discussing life away from college, college scholarships and financial aid and more. Ted Dang, Megan’s dad, will speak about the challenges parents face when preparing for their child to go to college. “I am so glad that he is speaking,” said Megan. “I am very fortunate to have such supportive parents. They’ve helped me manage my diabetes better as I’ve gotten older.”

Interested students and families can register for the Yes2College event online at https://yes2college.weebly.com/. sacramentoparent.com MAY 2018 21

SPECIAL-FIT SACRAMENTO: A Gym for Families with Special Needs

By Leann Dickinson As a parent of a child with autism and as a personal trainer in a corporate gym setting, I know how important it is for individuals with special needs to have purposeful movement in their lives.

We know all too well that if a person becomes sedentary their quality of life drops and they are put at a higher risk for heart disease, type two diabetes, low muscle tone, poor posture, and loss of flexibility.

I have found that having athletes with special needs in a corporate gym is difficult, most are not set up for those of a different ability. Whether it was an athlete in a wheelchair or an individual with sensory disorder, there was either not enough space to get a good workout or the lights were too bright and the music, too loud. All making it difficult for athlete's with special needs to complete a training session.

While working with one of my autistic athletes, I noticed that there was so much to overcome and tune out, just so we could get to exercising. This particular athlete was extremely frustrated with the corporate gym environment. I started thinking about how I could tailor the

22 MAY 2018 sacramentoparent.com

environment to his needs. Fortunately, I work with some amazing athletes (and parents) who were willing to share their personal experiences in different environments. This allowed me to have a better understanding and to become much more in tune with their needs.

I knew I wanted to see more special needs training opportunities in the fitness industry. I was inspired to improve my knowledge of the best ways to communicate with a non-verbal athlete and how to support them outside the gym.

I found that Rapid Prompting Method or RPM for short is a great way to create communication with most of these athletes. I have also read in some studies and personally saw how purposeful movement and exercise greatly benefits learning and motor planning with letterboarding. This type of communication allows for a quick question and answer session to check in with the athlete while in a training session. I also discovered what parents wanted for their athlete in a training session and created a program that is tailored to those needs, goals, and desires. Through this process, I created Special-Fit Sacramento.

There are a few things Special-Fit Sacramento focuses on; having a wide open gym floor for optimal space, having the ability to change lighting and sound, which creates as little visual and auditory distractions as possible. In addition, the equipment is neatly organized along the perimeter of the gym which allows athletes the ability to freely move when needed. We are able to turn on all the lights or none of the lights (and everything in between) so it is pleasing for our athletes. Plus, we want to be sure we have the flexibility to be able to adjust volume and style of music with each and every athlete that we work with.

We want to tailor to specific needs for a successful session.

Special-Fit Sacramento creates a custom program that is based on the goals, needs and assessment findings. We work on building trust and communication with the athlete. Once we establish those things, it’s time to get to work. The athletes are given time to get situated with the gym, to explore and look at anything and everything for the first few sessions.

This helps them to adjust quite quickly and be able to focus on any movement that is introduced to them.

ou Seen it?

Have Y The 2018 Source Book who to call | where to go | what to do

Robinson & Fulton Law

Estate Planning and Special Needs Attorneys

Be sure to pick up your FREE copy of this handy go-to guide for Greater Sacramento area families.

We guide families through:

A typical training session varies from athlete to athlete and their specific needs. We first and foremost work on key movements for a healthy and long lifestyle. This is called functional training. By focusing on push, pull, squat, hinge and carry our athletes are able to perform compound movements in a surprisingly short amount of time. We are able to teach and embed the motor patterns by triggering the neuromuscular system to kick in 100%. Once we master how to move the body, we will move on to strength and endurance by creating a fun and challenging session. To sum it up, authentically getting to know athletes and having the ability to be flexible to their needs is what creates that spark for them in the gym for long term success.

• Estate Planning • Probate • Special Needs Planning • Conservatorships • Trust Administration & Review

www.fulton-law.com

Tel (530) 823-2010 Fax (530) 823-0570

www.SacramentoParent.com

333 University Avenue, Suite 200 Sacramento, CA 95825 One California Street, Auburn, CA 95603

If you know of a business or person in the Greater Sacramento area that is dedicated to serving people with all abilities, we’d love to hear from you!

For more information about Special-Fit Sacramento visit, www.specialfitsacramento.com/

sacramentoparent.com MAY 2018 23

24 MAY 2018 sacramentoparent.com

CAMP Day Camps: Summer Fun Without Leaving Town

by Christa Melnyk Hines Day camps come in all shapes and sizes, appealing to a range of interests and ages. Here's how to find a camp that invests in your youngster by creating an unforgettable experience where they'll meet new friends, gain self-confidence and learn new skills, all while giving you peace of mind.

Begin with basics. First determine your schedule needs. Some camps are only a few hours a day, while others are structured to work well with a working parent's schedule. Figure out if you'll need to arrange before or after care.

Match the camp with your child's interests. From computer coding to robotics and sports, day camps offer kids the opportunity to try all kinds of new activities. If your child isn't interested in a camp that specializes in one activity, choose a more traditional camp that offers a wide range of activities throughout the session.

"Make sure there's a healthy balance between structure and choice," says Jim Spearin, senior vice president of Youth Development for the YMCA.

Consider the culture. Ask for referrals from trusted family and friends."Choose a camp that welcomes parents as partners in their experience," Spearin says.

"Parents should always feel welcome to come visit during camp. There should be planned activities for both parent and camper to enjoy together such as special events or campouts."

Seek qualified, organized staff. Camp employees should be licensed, certified and trained in sexual/child abuse prevention, first aid and CPR. Find out how camp leaders are supervised and how they plan for emergencies, including natural disasters, intruders and other threats. Also consider the childto-staff ratio. Will your child feel lost in a group that's too big, even if it meets state criteria?

"It's vitally important for staff to have child development knowledge and experience to ensure that appropriate, engag-

ing and enriching activities are offered," says Katrina Ball, a childcare resource and referral director.

Try it before you buy. Attend a camp expo or camp fair to find out what options exist in the area. Some organizations feature their own camp fairs and mini-camps for families to try.

"As a parent you know your child best and what program would be best for them. Trust your instincts," Ball says.

Calm butterflies. Many youngsters have a hard time adjusting to new situations and people and may feel scared or intimidated. Include them in the process of choosing a camp. Discuss the schedule of activities and what a typical day will look like.

Find out if one of your child's friends would like to attend the camp with him.

Attending orientations, visiting the camp site and meeting the staff prior to the beginning of camp can also help reduce any pre-camp jitters.

Freelance journalist, Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two happy daycampers. Christa’s latest book is Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World. sacramentoparent.com MAY 2018 25

Need ideas?

Here’s a List of Activities to Explore:

(Many of them can be found right here, in the following pages, too!)

Visual and Performing Arts

Band or Orchestra | Choir | Circus Creative Writing | Dance Film Production | Theater

Learning + Technology

Animation | Chess Computer Programming or Coding Cooking | Debate | Foreign Language Gaming | Robotics STEM | Tutoring Website design

For Children (ages 3-9) with Apraxia, Suspected Apraxia or Severe Speech Disorder Intensive Speech • Language Thera py

Enrollment Now Open Camp Dates:

Session 1: June 18th-29th Session 2: July 9th-20th

Call to Register TODAY! • 8 Classes Per Session • Parent Training Will Be Included • 1.5 Hours a Day/4 Days a Week

198 Cirby Way, Suite 140, Roseville

916.773.8282 www.BrightStartTherapies.com

Outdoor + Water Activities

4-H | Biking | Boating | Climbing Fishing | Gardening | Geocaching Hiking | Horseback Riding | Paintball Scouting | Camping or Outdoor Skills Water Skiing | Wakeboarding

Join us for our summer camps!

only $400 per week!

Sports

Baseball | Basketball | Cheerleading Football | Golf | Gymnastics Hockey | Lacrosse | Martial Arts Skating | Soccer | Softball Swimming | Tennis | Volleyball Wrestling

Located at the beautiful Lake Francis Resort in Dobbins, CA

Other

CSI | Etiquette | Faith Activities | Fashion Journalism/Broadcast Media Magic | Philanthropic | Special Needs Veterinary | Yoga 26 MAY 2018 sacramentoparent.com

To register, visit www.camprockingu.com

CAMP

Re g i s te Onlin r Today!e

For more info (916)405-5600 • yourcsd.com @cosumnesparkrec sacramentoparent.com MAY 2018 27

Now registering for summer Day Camps!

This summer have the BEST week ever!

Week-long musical theater day camps for ages 5-18! Rotate through drama, dance and voice, concluding with an impressive showcase for family and friends!

Get Outdoors!

Make Friends. Gain Confidence.

Ride Horses. Swim. Take Risks.

Find Your Voice. Adventures Await!

girlscoutshcc.org/getoutdoors Not a Girl Scout? Join today for $25 and get outdoors!

28 MAY 2018 sacramentoparent.com

800.322.4475

Auburn - July 16-20 Roseville - July 23-27 Roseville- July 30-Aug 3

Broadway Babies, ages 5-7 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. (aftercare option)

Broadway Kids, ages 8-12 The Greatest Show, ages 12-18 9:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m.

www.cytsacramento.org Christian Youth Theater is dedicated to developing character in children and adults through training in the arts and by producing wholesome family entertainment.

CAMP

Xtreme CAMP ONLY Laser Tag Game Formats Ultimate Arcade Game Challenges Crazy Bounce House Activities Weekly Make-Your-Own Pizza Party Visit us online for Dates, Prices & Details.

Space is Limited, Register Online Today!

sacramentoparent.com MAY 2018 29

30 MAY 2018 sacramentoparent.com

CAMP LITTLE MIND READERS

PLACER NATURE CENTER

AGES 4-6

SUPERFLEX TRAINING ACADEMY

SUMMER

SOCIAL

AGES 7-9

GROUPS

(530) 878-6053 5-Day Camps: $165 | 3-Day Camps: $115 IT’S SHOWTIME!

15% OFF

AGES 10-12

1972 Del Paso Rd. Suite 156 Sacramento, CA 95834

For more information:

www.PlacerNatureCenter.org

When registered

by June 11th

cookspeechandlanguage.com

Member Discounts Available

Explore Today...Protect Tomorrow!

Our two week groups begin the week of June 18.

CALL TODAY TO REGISTER 916.575.8800

•Autism Spectrum Disorder

•Individualized Therapy

•Articulation and Phonology

•Developmental Delays

•Early Intervention Specialists

•Parent Training and Coaching

•Language Disorders

•Stuttering Therapy

Choral Day Summer Camp

July 16-20, 2018 • Grades 2nd - 6th • 9am - 12pm Does your child love to sing?

Fun and educational summer choral camp.

(No Experience Neccessary)

Information: (916) 646-1141 sacramentochildrenschorus.org

sacramentoparent.com MAY 2018 31

Rocknasium the climbing gym

Weekly Camps June 11 - August 10 Full Day $ 235 / Half Day $ 125 $ 15 off repeat weeks ages 6 - 14

rocknasium.com

32 MAY 2018 sacramentoparent.com

Climbing Ziplining Slacklining Rappelling and more!

JUNGLE CAMP 2018 530.757.2902

CAMP

local

CAMP ISSUE

• • Auburn Racquet Club 530-885-1602 | www.Ar-Fc.com • • • Bounce Spot 916-371-2386 | www.TheBounceSpot.com • • • Bright Start Therapies Apraxia Camp 916-773-8282 | www.BrightStartTherapies.com • Brighton School 916-985-2222 | www.BrightonSchools.com • • • • • • Arts Explosion Camp: A Camp for Creativity Fair Oaks 916-979-8641 | www.SanJuan.edu/vapa Auburn

West Sacramento

Roseville

Folsom

Byers Gymnastics Roseville | Citrus Heights 916-781-2939 | 916-723-7700 www.ByersRoseville.com California Time Traveler Camp Sacramento 916-654-1729 | www.CaliforniaMuseum.org/Time-Traveler

• • • •

Camelia Waldorf School Sacramento 916-427-5022 | http://CamelliaWaldorf.org Christian Youth Theater Roseville | Auburn 916-623-4343 | www.CYTsacramento.org

• • • •

• • • • • Cook Speech and Language 916-575-8800 | www.CookSpeechAndLanguage.com • • Crocker Art Museum 916-808-7000 | www.CrockerArt.org • Destination Science Camp 888-909-2822 | www.destinationscience.org • • • Effie Yeaw Nature Center 916-489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net • • • •

Consumnes Community Services District Elk Grove 916-405-5600 | www.YourCSD.com Sacramento

Sacramento

Sacramento

Carmichael

• • • • Fairytale Town 916-808-7462 | www.FairytaleTown.org • • • • Fliptastic Day Camp 916-487-3547 | www.Fliptastic.biz • • • • Fremont Music Camp 916-452-7132 | www.FremontPres.org •

Elk Grove/Consumnes CSD (Youth & Teens) Elk Grove 916-405-5600 | www.YourCSD.com Sacramento

Carmichael

Sacramento

Girl Scouts Multiple Locations 800-322-4475 www.GirlScoutsHCC.org/en/outdoor/day-camp.html

• • • • •

Granite Arch Climbing Center Rancho Cordova 916-852-7625 | www.GraniteArch.com Granite Bay Montessori Granite Bay 916-791.7849 | www.GBMontessori.com iD Tech Camps Multiple Location 1-844-788-1858 | www.iDtech.com Jesuit High School (Open To Boys & Girls Grades 1-12) Carmichael 916-482-6060 | www.JesuitHighSchool.org/summer

•

• • • • • • • sacramentoparent.com MAY 2018 33

Destination Science The fun science day camp for curious kids!

BYERS GYMNASTICS Summer CampS Regular Price $170

Save $10/wk!

Camps are held June 25 - August 3 Monday thru Friday • 9am -12pm Ages 4-6 & 6-13

Ends May 31st

Held at Sacramento State University destinationscience.org 888-909-2822

Roseville (916) 781-2939 • Citrus Heights (916) 723-7700

www.byersroseville.com

Questions? Contact the Music Office at 916.452.7132 or cheryl@fremontpres.org 5770 Carlson Drive, Sacramento, CA 95819 www.FremontPres.org

34 MAY 2018 sacramentoparent.com

CAMP

CAMP ISSUE

local

Kids Camp Greater Sacramento 916-608-9900 | www.KidsCampFamiles.com Little Folks University Folsom 916-985-7055 | www.LittleFolksU.com Mad Science of Sacramento Valley Sacramento 916-779-0390 | www.Sacramento.MadScience.org

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

National Academy of Athletics Rocklin 866-90-SPORT (77678) | www.NationalAcademyofAthletics.com Nike Sports Camps at Jesuit (Rugby, Soccer, Basketball) Carmichael 1-800-645-3226 | www.USSportsCamps.com

•

• •

• • • • Powerhouse Science Center-Science Summer Camps 916-808-3942 | https://PowerhouseSC.org • • • ReCreate Maker Camps 916-770-9880 | http://www.Recreate.org/summercamp • • • Rocknasium The Climbing Gym presents Jungle Camp 530-757-2902 | www.Rocknasium.com

• Sacramento Children’s Chorus 916-646-1411 | https://www.sacramentochildrenschorus.org/ • post/annoucing-summer-camp

Placer Nature Center Auburn 530-878-6053 | http://PlacerNatureCenter.org Sacramento

Roseville

Davis

Sacramento

• • • • •

Sacramento History Museum, Old Sacramento Living History Center Sacramento 916-808-7059 | http://SacHistoryMuseum.org

Sacramento Natural Foods Co-Op Sacramento 916-868-6399 | www.SacFoodCoop.com

•

• • • Sacramento Theatre Company 916-446-7501 | www.SacTheatre.org • • Sierra College Community Education Youth Camps 916-781-6280 | www.sierracommunityed.org • • • •

Sac State Aquatic & Boating Safety Center Gold River 916-278-2842 | www.SacStateAquaticCenter.com Sacramento

Rocklin

STAR Camps Granite Bay | Lincoln 916-632-8407 | www.starsacramento.org Sunrise Recreation and Park District

Antelope | Citrus Heights | Sacramento

916-725-1585 | www.SunriseParks.com

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Tricks Gymnastics Granite Bay | Folsom | Sacramento 916-791-4496 | 916-351-0024 | 916-481-4496 www.TricksGym.com Xtreme Craze Rocklin 916-259-2729 | www.xtremecraze.com

•

sacramentoparent.com MAY 2018 35

36 MAY 2018 sacramentoparent.com

7 Types of Swimmers on Their First Day of Swim Lessons

By Kaleb Wallen

Swimming lessons are an important part of many children's lives. It is a time when they face their fears in the name of learning a new life skill. Although it isn’t always easy, swimming is an essential life skill that everyone should develop, especially living in the Greater Sacramento area where pools, lakes, rivers, and oceans are all nearby.

Even if you don't plan to ever swim at a competitive level, water safety and water awareness skills are vital.

Starting swim lessons can be intimidating and overwhelming, both for the child and the parent.

Below are the most common types of swimmers: 1. The Natural Within minutes of their first swim lesson, the natural is pushing off independently and in a horizontal swimming position with great breath control. These swimmers do most likely have a genetic advantage to learning how to swim, but many have also spent countless hours in the bath, shower, and pool as babies, preparing for this day.

There is not much explanation as to why some swimmers have it easier, other than genetics and that they love swimming!

2. The Anxious Learner The anxious learner may start as a swimmer who is nervous about their first swimming lesson and may even take half the class to put their feet in the water. Once in the water, the anxiety will subside but may reappear when the swimmer begins to learn more advanced skills that are out of

their comfort zone. Although this is a minor speed bump in their learning process, an experienced and patient swim instructor can address these concerns and help them overcome anxiety .

3. The Talker Whether striking up a conversation with an instructor or chatting with another student, the talker would prefer to spend most of their lesson conversing with their pool mates over swimming. While this is often fun and entertaining for others around, it means extra work for their instructor whose primary goal becomes making sure the student is focused and maximizing their lesson time.

4. The Splasher Swimmers who love the water so much they splash themselves and everyone around them because they just can't hold back their excitement.

Typically, their splashing is

contagious and soon enough every student in the pool is catching on. They may or may not know how to swim, or even like to put their face in, yet they LOVE the water.

5. The Screamer These swimmers make such a fuss about getting in the water you would think they were being sent off to be tortured and never to be seen again.

Often times this behavior is due to separation anxiety, fear, control issues, or some combination of all three.

Screamers require a very patient swim instructor who will be persistent yet sympathetic along the way. Many times ‘screamers’ can transition into the last type of swimmer, The Bathroom Breaker, as they learn new ways to avoid their precious swim lesson time.

6. The Enticed These swimmers tend to need a little extra motivation. Many parents will do whatever

it takes to get their kids to swim and listen to their swim instructor, often promising a toy or treat if they have a successful lesson. These swimmers generally know they are working the system with their parents, but if it gets them swimming, who are we to say no!

7. The Bathroom Breaker These swimmers love to use bathroom breaks as an excuse to get out of their swim lesson, even when they don’t really have to use the bathroom. These students know exactly what they are doing, and know that their instructor can't just ignore a plea for a bathroom break. Once the swim instructor and parents catch on to this clever tactic and learn to distinguish a real need for a bathroom break from a fake one, the swimmer will eventually stop using the excuse.

Kaleb Wallen is the Co-Owner Steve Wallen Swim School, located in El Dorado Hills with a second location opening soon in Roseville! For more information about Steve Wallen Swim School or to inquire about swimming lessons visit, https://www.wallenswim.com/. sacramentoparent.com MAY 2018 37

tuesday

Sometimes plans change, don’t forget to check the event’s website before you go!

wednesday

thursday

1

2

3

Special Needs Tuesdays

Free First Wednesdays

Park, Rec and Eat It

3pm at Sky High Sports

9am at Sacramento Zoo

5pm at Carmichael Park

Children with special needs and their caregivers/therapists enjoy special pricing and accommodations on Tuesdays at this indoor trampoline park (no music and a designated court to jump on).

Sac.SkyHighSports.com

Thanks to Wells Fargo, children ages 2 to 11 are free with a paid adult on the first Wednesday of each month. www.SacZoo.org

A monthly family event featuring food trucks, vendors and entertainment.

CarmichaelPark.com

Wee Wednesday 10:30 & 11am at Crocker Art Museum

Sacramento Guitar Society’s Guitar-a-Thon 10am at JCPenney Court, Sunrise Mall

Enjoy live guitar performances all day Explore various art mediums with Sweet Mother’s Day festivities, to support the Sacramento Guitar your 3 to 5 year olds on Wednesdays stimulating Star Wars events 8Tour + Performance: B Street Society and other non-profit organiat the Crocker. zations during the Big Day of Giving. www.CrockerArt.org and sensational fairs— Theatre www.BigDayofGiving.org 11am at Crocker Art Museum 9 including the Rocklin Commu- Tour the Crocker with your child, then Mother’s Day Crafts 10 for a live performance of B Street nity Festival and Sacramento stay Rocklin Community Festival 3:30pm at Elk Grove Library Theatre’s Fantasy Festival, a series of Create handmade Mother’s Day crafts 4pm at Johnson-Springview Park short plays written by children, perFair—fill our surrounding A “small town” fair with carnival for the special moms in your life. by professional actors. rides, games, vendor booths, nightly Supplies provided. communities with a celebratory formed www.CrockerArt.org entertainment and a food court. (May www.SacLibrary.org 10-13) atmosphere this month.

Science Learning Lab Dinosaurs for Everyone!

5:30pm at Maidu Library

Placer Mosquito & Vector Control District will teach your children about bugs using hands-on activities and videos. Registration required. (Ages 6-10) www.Roseville.ca.us

15 Open Play Art Exploration 9am at The Art Box Rocklin Community Festival, May 10-13

Explore the art studio during open play hours on Tuesdays for $8. Dress for a mess. (18 months to 8 years-old) http://ArtBoxFairOaks.com $5 Tuesdays

16 LEGO® Club 4:30pm at Granite Bay Library

LEGO-lovers will enjoy this opportunity to let their building imaginations go wild! www.Placer.CA.Gov

23 Big Truck Day

Going to the movies mid-week is an excellent idea, especially when there are $5 deals all day long! www.StudioMovieGrill.com

11am at Laguna Reserve Marketplace, Elk Grove

$2 Off Tuesdays at Sacramento Children’s Museum 9am at Sacramento Children’s Museum

Explore, create and learn with handson activities, art, experiments and imaginative centers designed to peak the curiosity of little ones. www.SacKids.org

29 Open Art Studio 11am at The Art Bistro

Choose from a variety of art mediums and freely create art with your child. $10 fee for supplies. (Ages 5+) TheArtBistro.com

38 MAY 2018 sacramentoparent.com

Learn about dinosaurs, see fossils and casts up close and watch educational videos about these prehistoric giants. www.SacLibrary.org

10am at Studio Movie Grill

22 All Aboard for Story Time, May 28

6pm at Rancho Cordova Library

Climb inside a semi-truck, honk the horn of a bus, learn about city maintenance vehicles, build sand castles and play with giant bubbles at this free event celebrating National Public Works Week. www.ElkGroveCity.org

30 Story Time 10:30 & 11am at Riley Library

A story time where books, puppets, song and rhymes run the show. Parent participation required. www.Roseville.ca.us Rockin’ Tots 9am at Rockin’ Jump Roseville

Head to this indoor trampoline park with your tot. They’ll love you. (Ages 6 and under) Roseville.RockinJump.com

RocklinCommunityFestival.org Mommy & Me 9am at Raley Field

A free playdate on the outfield featuring bounce houses, crafts, snacks and an appearance by Dinger, the mascot. www.MILB.com

17 50th Annual Hangtown Motocross Classic 9am at Prairie City State Park

Motocross enthusiasts will not want to miss this 3-day competition. Check the website for race details. www.HangtownMX.com Story Time 10am at Face in a Book

Visit this cute bookstore for a weekly story time with songs and fun. www.GetYourFaceInABook.com

24 Sacramento County Fair 10am at Cal Expo

Carnival rides and games, fair food and live entertainment like duck races, professional jugglers and musical performances. Kids 12 and under are free. (May 24-28) www.SacFair.com

31 After-School Art 3pm at Arcade Library

An art program for middle schoolers.

Supplies provided. www.SacLibrary.org

friday

4 May the 4th be with You

5 Kids Expo

10am at Peter Singer Park

10am at El Dorado County Fairgrounds

A Star Wars scavenger hunt for hidden characters starts at 10am in Downtown Lincoln stores, then head to Peter Singer Park to get trained by professional Jedi trainers, build light sabers, do crafts and enter a dress-up contest. http://LincolnCA.gov

A free event with community resources for families, hands-on activities and children’s performances. https://Visit-ElDorado.com

Cinco De Mayo on the Fourth!

5pm at Downtown Lincoln (5th and F Street)

Food trucks, dancers, a mariachi band, adult beverages and lots of community fun. www.DowntownLincolnCA.com Star Wars Day 11am at Fairytale Town

Celebrate with Star Wars crafts and meet favorite characters. www.Fairytaletown.org Don O’Brien Xtreme Science Magic 3:30pm at McKinley Library

See fire tornadoes, electromagnetic fields, bouncing bubbles and more! www.SacLibrary.org Tony Borders Puppets

KidTopia 10am at Fair Oaks Park

From giant slides and inflatables to Mad Science experiments, there are countless ways to have fun. https://KNCIFM.com/event/ kidtopia-saturday-may-5th-fairoaks-park/

12 BerryFest Strawberry Festival 10am at @theGrounds Placer County

Live entertainment, a petting zoo, kids zone, carnival rides, characters and lots of strawberry-infused treats. www.FeedMeBerries.com Love My Mom 5K 8am at Whole Foods in the Palladio

Start the morning with a 5K run or walk, then visit vendors, listen to music and sample refreshments. www.Folsom.ca.us

4pm at Rancho Cordova Library

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A cute puppet show with master puppeteer Tony Borders. www.SacLibrary.org

9am at City of Roseville, California Police Department

11 Artful Tot 10:30am at Crocker Art Museum

Toddlers will explore art using different mediums in creative ways. www.CrockerArt.org

18 Friday Flicks: Cars 3 7:30pm (or sunset) at Vernon Street Town Square

Watch a movie under the stars with your family. www.Roseville.Ca.us Campfire 7pm at Maidu Museum & Historic Site

Enjoy Native American storytelling and roast marshmallows around an open campfire. www.Roseville.Ca.us

25 Rockin’ Fridays 8pm at Rockin’ Jump in Roseville

Your teens will have a blast jumping with friends while listening to tunes from a live guest DJ. Roseville.RockinJump.com

Police Department Open House Tour the station and get an inside look at the vehicles and equipment, meet the K9s and more! www.Facebook.com/ Events/160927807903715/ Fish Family Fest 3pm at Cal Expo

Join The Fish (103.9 FM) for a family-friendly event that features live performances by Natalie Grant, Danny Gokey, Ryan Stevenson and Austin French, plus a kid’s zone and more. http://TheFishSacramento.com

26 14th Annual International Kids Festival 10am at William Land Park

6 Dinosaur Day Science Fest

Story Time 10am at Face in a Book

Make archaeopteryx hats, dino puppets, tie-dye shirts and morph into reptiles with reptilian face painting.

Stay for a planetarium show and snack on dinosaur treats. www.SierraCollege.edu

Visit this cute bookstore for a weekly story time with songs and fun. www.GetYourFaceInABook.com

Mother Son Wacky Golf 9am at Emerald Lakes Golf Course

Mothers and sons will make their way down the fairway with frisbees, tennis racquets, baseballs and other wacky equipment provided by the club.

YourCSD.com/683/ Mother-Son-Wacky-Golf Gifts from Mother Earth 1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center

Create a one-of-a-kind craft from Mother Earth as you learn the skill of polishing abalone to make a necklace. www.SacNatureCenter.net

13 Creatively Carrie 1pm at Denio’s Market

A local artist will guide participants step-by-step to create an adorable painting for Mother’s Day. Supplies included. (Ages 6+) http://DeniosMarket.com Rocklin Community Festival

Munchkin Monday 11am at Sky High Sports

Jump around with your little one at this indoor trampoline park. (6 and under) http://Sac.SkyHighSports.com

14 Fish Hatchery Exploration 8am at Nimbus Fish Hatchery

Learn about the Chinook salmon and steelhead, then take a short walk to the American River. www.Wildlife.Ca.Gov/Fishing/ Hatcheries/Nimbus

21 Princess Night 6pm at Pete’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, Rocklin

On the 3rd Monday of each month princesses visit with dinner guests, create balloon animals and face paint.

Children can come dressed in princess attire. https://PetesRandB.com

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4pm at Johnson-Springview Park

Sacramento County Fair

Carnival rides, games, vendor booths, nightly entertainment and a food court.

RocklinCommunityFestival.org

10am at Cal Expo

20 Bass Pro Shops Open 9am at Bass Pro, Rocklin

This annual bass fishing tournament features a kid’s casting/fishing pond, cool product demonstrations and more. https://Stores.BassPro.com

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A giant annual fair featuring carnival rides and games, fair food and live entertainment like duck races, professional jugglers and musical performances. Kids 12 and under are free.

(May 24-28). www.SacFair.com All Aboard for Story Time 11am at California State Railroad Museum

Join this world-class Museum each Monday for story time. www.CaliforniaRailroad.museum

Excursion Train Ride 11am at California State Railroad Museum

Hop aboard for a 45-minute train ride along the Sacramento River. Check the website for details and departure location. www.CaliforniaRailroad.Museum

World Giraffe Day

Wet and Wild Pond Animals

Learn all about giraffes, then visit the giraffe exhibit for crafts, games and prizes. www.SacZoo.org

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9am at Sierra College (Sewell Hall)

Pony rides, inflatables, a rock climbing wall, mini train rides, trampolines, live entertainment and food trucks! www.RussianAmericanMedia.com 9am at Sacramento Zoo

monday

sunday

saturday

1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center

Learn about the critters that fill the nature center’s pond using catch and release activities led by a guide. www.SacNatureCenter.net sacramentoparent.com MAY 2018 39

calendar/shows

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d. a e h A ooking

L

Folsom Lake Symphony Star Wars

Hello Summer Fun!

May 4 at the Folsom Historic District Amphitheater A free, open-air concert featuring favorite songs from Star Wars movies. www.FolsomLakeSymphony.com

It’s the Party Issue Get Crafty at Home Being Mikey’s Dad Celebrating Fathers A Look at the MIND Institute

Placer Pops Chorale & Orchestra

May 4-6 at Dietrich Theatre, Sierra College A fabulous chorale production of the most beloved Broadway show tunes. Songs, which are accompanied by an orchestra and set to choreography, include excerpts from Guys & Dolls, La La Land, Finding Neverland and more. Placer Pops also performs at the Harris Center in Folsom on May 18 and May 20. www.PlacerPops.com

Bye Bye Birdie

Through May 6, presented by El Dorado Musical Theatre at Harris Center Set in 1958, this musical comedy portrays the story of rock-and-roll idol Conrad Birdie—who aspires to give one last performance on The Ed Sullivan Show before he is drafted into the U.S. Army—his girlfriend, and the drama that ensues when Birdie is asked to give a kiss to one of his biggest fans on the show.

EDMT.info

Guys and Dolls

Through May 13, presented by Davis Musical Theatre Company An upbeat musical comedy that depicts an array of vivid characters who try to take advantage of the gambling scene in New York City, but end up on a romantic journey instead. www.DMTC.org

CONNECTING FAMILIES FOR 25 YEARS

Hairspray

Through May 13 at The Woodland Opera House This family-friendly musical comedy will keep the audience laughing as the main character, Tracy Turnblad, tries to upstage the reigning Teen Queen by dancing on the Corny Collins Show, a popular program of 1960s, all without messing up her giant hairdo. http://WoodlandOperaHouse.org

Seussical Jr.

May 11-19, performed by CYT Sacramento at Valley Springs Church Join the Cat in the Hat and Horton the Elephant for a magical, triumphant journey of laughter and friendship. www.CYTSacramento.org

San Francisco Symphony

May 24 at Jackson Hall, Mondavi Center Experience the emotionally charged concertos of Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 1, Haydn’s Symphony No. 102 and Brett Dean’s Engelsflügel performed by the prestigious San Francisco Symphony, under the direction of maestro David Robertson. www.MondaviArts.org

Shakespeare at the Amphitheater

May 31 at Sutter Street Parking Garage Watch a free performance of Shakespeare’s The Tempest while snacking on picnic food with older children and friends. Bring a low chair. www.HistoricFolsom.org

40 MAY 2018 sacramentoparent.com

Pick up your free copy at one of over 1,000 locations throughout Greater Sacramento, or read it online at

www.SacramentoParent.com

calendar/exhibits

It’s always a good idea to check the website before you head out!

Sacramento After Dark

Watershed Learning Center

Through May 5 at Viewpoint Photographic Art Center

On display until further notice at Placer Nature Center

A collection of 80 artistic images of Sacramento taken between dusk and dawn. www.ViewpointGallery.org

This permanent, interactive display shows children the cycle of a water drop, from precipitation to percolation, as well as the impact our local watersheds have on our environment and drinking water. They also have a permanent exhibit that teaches visitors how nature and humans change the land. http://PlacerNatureCenter.org

21st Annual Juried Student Exhibition May 7-17 at Ridley Gallery, Sierra College

An exhibition that displays the work of Sierra College students in a variety of mediums, from paintings, ceramics and printmaking to multimedia, woodworking and more. www.SierraCollege.edu 32nd Annual 30 Ceramic Sculptors Exhibition Through May 12 at John Natsoulas Gallery

A showcase of sculptures by local artists, as well as pieces created by UC Davis Art Department instructors and students. www.Natsoulas.com

Hopes Springing High: Gifts of African American Art Through June 24 at Crocker Art Museum

Named after the poem, “Still I Rise,” by Maya Angelou, this exhibition seeks to honor the courage and perseverance of the African American community and features the artwork of prominent artists, including Kehinde Wiley, who was recently chosen by former president Barack Obama to paint his portrait, Romare Bearden, Elizabeth Catlett and Faith Ringgold. www.CrockerArt.org

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sacramentoparent.com MAY 2018 41

Campers, Glampers, or First-timers:

Travel trailer delivery straight to your campsite

By Shannon Smith We just gave away a Luv2Camp two-night rental voucher for a lucky family to have a travel trailer delivered straight to a beautiful campsite on the Mendocino Coast!

In case you missed it and are planning a summer camping trip, but don’t have a travel trailer, we thought this concept was a fantastic option for families.

Check it out!

How it works. You reserve (and pay) for your campsite at one of the many Mendocino area locations listed on the website (My family loves Gualala River Redwood Park.) Luv2Camp will deliver and set up a trailer for your stay. They connect power, water, and turn on appliances so it’s all set for your camping excursion. It comes with dishes, pots, pans, silverware and many of the basic necessities. You’ll just need to bring your food, bedding/towels and your can’tlive-without items. When you’re stay is over, simply do a basic clean-up and they’ll be there to pick it up.

For more information and details, visit http://www.luv2campmendocino.com/.

Are you seeing all of Sacramento Parent’s freebies and giveaways? If you want a chance to WIN fabulous giveaways like this one, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter and subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter, too!

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