Sacramento Parent August 2017

parent August 2017

SPEND A DAY ON THE FARM!

Last Call for Summer Fun...

sacramentoparent.com

Calm First Day of School Nerves

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parent

on our cover

August 2017

contents

On our cover: Memories by Michelle Photography documented a day with her muse, Daisy as they explored Blackberry Creek Farm Animal Sanctuary in Colfax owned by Josh and Danielle. Learn more about their visit on page 10.

Photographer: Memories by Michelle Photography www.MByMPhotos.com

AUGUST 2017

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departments 8 FUN FINDS

features 15 Calming First Day of School

Nerves

Back to School

10 LET’S GO

Caring for Special Farm Animals

17 22

Back to Middle School Bash Local Community Center Raising the Bar

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Teaching Kids Time Management Skills

31 35

The Buzz on Coffee

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Traveling with Children with Special Needs

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Phone-less & Fancy Free

25 years

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around town 21 Fun for Families with Special Needs

38 CALENDAR Local Adventures

40 ON DISPLAY Timeless Displays

41 ON STAGE Feelings and Senses

42 ON REPEAT Summer Nights

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

StudioPRDesign.com

JILL LENDAHL, JillLendahl.com event coordinator | MELEYA WALKER

photographer: Memories by Michelle Photography www.MByMPhotos.com contributing writers: Sandra Gordon | Allison Hopkins Amy Kelly | Michelle McDaid Christa Melnyk Hines | Pam Molnar | Jan Pierce Christine Quarry | Shannon Smith

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES Raychell Sarcomo raychell@sacramentoparent.com Lindsay Trenz lindsay@sacramentoparent.com Cheryl Waples cheryl@sacramentoparent.com

BILLING QUESTIONS

Shelly Bokman | (530) 888.0573 shelly@sacramentoparent.com

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Are you ready for the new school year? I typically am, but now that my girls are at two different schools, I’ve got some preparing and homework to do myself...and the clock is ticking! It’s time to start planning everything from setting up a carpool with different pick-up and drop-off times to how to fit in homework before shuttling the girls off to soccer practices, and then there’s the struggle to find time for a proper dinner together, too!

Not to mention, coming up with what to even make for dinner when we’re pressed for time!? Check out our back-to-school giveaways on page 8, including delicious dinners from Dream Dinners, all prepped and ready to go so you can start off the school year on track!

This issue has the perfect balance of fun, planning, inspiration and plenty of ideas on how your family can spend the last few weeks of summer break! A day trip to a local farm, a back to school bash, tips for time management, fun coffee facts for those that need that extra cup on school mornings, and ways to calm first-day jitters, to name a few.

Warmly,

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Shannon & the Sac Parent team

FAMILY PUBLISHING, INC. Sacramento Parent Magazine Subscription Rate: one year, $30 PO Box 598 Auburn, CA 95604 p (530) 888.0573 f (530) 888.1536 sacparenteditor@gmail.com | www.sacramentoparent.com

Sacramento Parent magazine is published monthly by Family Publishing, Inc. It is available free of charge at over 1,000 locations throughout Greater Sacramento.

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Opinions expressed by contributors or advertisers are not necessarily the opinions of this publication.

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fun finds

Giveaways that Make the Grade WIN IT!

Wait, what? Did you really say, back to school? Yes, we really did! Although you may be wishing for an endless summer right about now, we’ve got some giveaways and goodies worthy of an A+! Head to the front of the class and enter to win at SacramentoParent.com.

Creativity Desk & Easel

This colorful, sturdy desk converts to an adjustable, multi-position easel. Featuring roomy side storage pockets, a large center drawer, additional desktop storage, a working desk light, a sturdy clip that holds paper on the easel and a matching chair. www.AmericanPlasticToys.com/products/role-play-furniture/creativity-desk-easel

Marcus & Marcus Insulated Lunch Backpack Keep meals, snacks and drinks cool and protected with a mesh interior pocket to keep lunch organized. The full zipper opening and rubber zipper grip is easy to use for tiny hands. Phthalate and BPA free. www.Amazon.com

ZIPIT Grillz Pencil Case This playful pencil pouch is almost too cool for school! Cleverly designed using durable 100% polyester fabric and one long zipper to fuel your imagination and impress your friends. The bright eyes and shiny teeth will brighten up your day, plus there’s plenty of room to store pens and pencils, scissors and sharpeners, crayons, markers and more! www.Amazon.com

ZIPIT Grillz Large Backpack A cool and practical way to take along everything you need. The exterior pocket unzips to reveal shiny grillz, which, along with the eyes and hood, make this backpack a force to be reckoned with. But it boasts more than just good looks, it features a padded back and adjustable shoulder straps for comfort.

At approximately 11.2” in length, 16.5” in height, and 14.5” in depth, you’ll have plenty of room for everything you could possibly need for yourself or your child! www.Amazon.com

Disney and Hal Leonard “Explore Learning” Hardcover Picture Books “Mickey’s Found Sounds - A Musical Exploration Storybook” The Main Street Parade has been rained out, but Mickey, Minnie, and Goofy, along with Donald and Daisy Duck and all their friends, form their own parade playing musical instruments they have made from everyday items found around the house. www.HalLeonard.com

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WIN IT!

Dream Dinners

We’ve all been there, the kids are headed back to school, and your entire routine is thrown into chaos. You need to coordinate drop-offs and pick-ups at two different schools, at two different times while working full-time, too.

Then there’s soccer practice twice a week, drama club and debate team, and homework, not to mention just trying to spend some fun, quality time with your kids. When are you supposed to find the time to think about dinner, let alone gather all of the ingredients and actually prepare it?

That’s where Dream Dinners comes in. Dream Dinners does all the shopping, chopping and prep work for you, so that when you step into our stores, you can spend as little as one hour to prepare meals for an entire month. Back at home, your dinners will be on the table in about 30 minutes with very little hands-on time needed. Which means more time to spend talking to your kids, having tea parties, building pillow forts, and just being Mom. Sacramento Parent is excited to share that if you’ve never tried Dream Dinners you can enter to win and give it a try. The lucky winner will have the opportunity to assemble and take home 18 servings (recipes are made in either 3-serving or 6-serving sizes). That’s at least three family dinners!

Dream Dinners is located at 2063 Arena Blvd. in Sacramento. For more information and to view the menu, visit DreamDinners.com. Menu options rotate monthly, pictures shown may vary from the time time you plan your visit.

www.TheGiftOfKids.net We Offer • Day Care (ages 6 wks.-5 yrs.)

• Preschool (ages 18 mos.-5 yrs.)

• Summer Camps (ages 18 mos.-10 yrs.)

• 1/2 Day Morning Preschool Program • Private Kindergarten • Homework Tutor Club(K-5th) • Before & After School Programs

(Transporting to & from many schools) • Saturday Date Night (ages 6 wks.-10 yrs.)

Call to Schedule Your Tour Today!

Check Out Our Convenient Location:

NOW ENROLLING

5130 Golden Foothill Pkwy., El Dorado Hills

916-521-1835

Hours: 6:30am-6pm

Infant Lic. 093616199 • Pre-School Lic. 093616198 Celebrating 25 years O sacramentoparent.com

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let’s go

The Special Animals of Blackberry

By Michelle McDaid Photography by Memories by Michelle | www.MByMPhotos.com

Our mission is to love one another.

Period.

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let’s go

Creek Farm Animal Sanctuary

If you’re looking for the typical, commercialized and sanitized farm trip experience, Blackberry Creek Farm Sanctuary isn’t it.

Nestled a few miles off the 80 in Colfax, and at the end of a back-country road one car wide, the center is actually the home of its founders, middle school teachers, Josh and Danielle, as well as over 40 other animals, including donkeys, chickens, turkeys, cats, pigs, dogs, llamas, and a tortoise. Almost all of which we got to meet, stroke, hold, and feed during our Sunday morning visit.

We were greeted in the driveway by Josh who was outside doing chores, and then introduced to Danielle who emerged from the house holding a plate full of cut-up watermelon for us to feed to our first resident (and the sanctuary’s most famous) Po, the pig. Po was rescued from a farm in Washington in terrible conditions and, like many of the residents, has medical issues that necessitate constant human care. Despite his disabilities, he’s a pig with

an almost human quality about his face: kind eyes and a mouth that looks like it’s smiling at you. Po let us feed him watermelon and rub his tummy. Tummy rubs in general were a favorite of the pigs we met during our visit.

Since founding the farm in 2014, Danielle and Josh’s experience rescuing animals led them to learn more about the animal agriculture industry and many of the animals have a story as heartbreaking as Po’s. Grover, another friendly pig we met later in the morning, was rescued after his pregnant mother broke free from the crate taking her to the slaughterhouse, jumped off the moving truck, and on the shoulder of the road to save herself and her piglets.

She was rescued by animal control and nine of the fourteen piglets survived. Grover and his two brothers are three of them, now living at Blackberry Creek.

Stories like this, and more (most of which you can read on their website), have led Josh and Danielle to embrace a Vegan lifestyle, something they had never even considered four years ago. It’s easy to see how this was an inevitable path for them, as they take us to meet each new resident. Everyone has a name, a personality, and a history that they can recite by heart.

These are not just animals in a paddock, they’re individuals that the couple care about.

Knowing that the animals they have rescued are just a tiny percentage of the animals that are harmed during food production, continuing to support that industry by eating animals and animal products no longer sat well with their heart or their conscience.

ers as soft as silk, a deaf pig, hens with docked beaks, and chicks with crossed beaks that prevent them from feeding themselves. My daughter got to groom a lovely, old Donkey called Bob, and got almost-kisses from Sunny the sheep. We learned the horrifying fact that deformed chicks are often used as packing material for shipping healthy chicks, and met a survivor called Mrs. Puff who was born without eyes. Because pecking is a behavior learned by chicks from watching their mother, Mrs. Puff never learned to feed herself. It took two months of round-the-clock hand-feeding Mrs. Puff at the sanctuary, before she began to eat on her own. Most of these chicks don’t make it; they’re considered as disposable as bubble wrap.

During our visit we got up-close-and-personal with a turkey who escaped the Thanksgiving table, feath-

We’ve been to many zoos and several farms as a family but never learned so much about, Blackberry Creek continued on page 13

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Blackberry Creek continued from page 11

or felt so connected to, the animals we were meeting as we did at Blackberry Creek!

Danielle and Josh are passionate about their mission to grow Blackberry Creek into an educational center, as well as a place for special needs animals to get the care they need. Their dream is to move to a larger plot of land and offer educational programs as well as summer camps, pairing their teaching skills with their newly-acquired knowledge about caring for animals and the agricultural industry.

The farm is not freely open to visitors but private visits, like ours, can be arranged, and they offer public visitor days the first Sunday of the month. Danielle and Josh also offer several special programs or events throughout the year that offer the public the opportunity to meet the animals and learn more. Just the day before, Po the Pig had hosted a yoga class, Poga! The farm also relies on volunteers to help tend to the forty animals on property. Click on “Get Involved” on their website to sign up for a Family Volunteer Day, or, if you belong to a community organization such as a Youth Group or a Girl Scout Troop, you can also schedule time to help out around the farm.

To plan a visit, check out www.blackberrycreek.org where you can sign up for a public visit and tour on August 6th this month. Donations of $10 per family are appreciated, but not required.

Llamas and Pajamas

Saturday, October 7th 3:30-8:30pm

as Llam and

Pajamas

A self-guided sanctuary tour, animal meet and greets, story time reading of the founder’s new book, “What Are Llamas For?”, a vegan gelato from Conscious Creamery, popcorn, and an outdoor showing of “Charlotte’s Web”. $15 adults, $10 children. www.BlackberryCreek.org

Michelle McDaid is a photographer and writer based in Sacramento. Through her business, Memories by Michelle, she captures real, playful, and unposed moments for families and children. When she’s not behind the camera, her favorite thing to do is travel and visit new places with her 8 year-old daughter. Learn more at www.mbymphotos.com.

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Now Enrolling for Fall The Granite Bay Schoolhouse is a small family based preschool that takes pride in giving children the guidance to learn and grow. Our program challenges children academically and socially.

Our goal is to provide children with academic social experiences through literature, hands on math, field trips, and performances that will create confidence them that they can carry with them forever.

• Preschool through Kindergarten (2 1/2 - 5 years) • Loving Environment • Qualified Teachers • Small Class Sizes • Full and Part Time • Academic Program • Fun summer program that includes weekly themes and daily activities

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Calming the First Day of School Nerves

By Jan Pierce The first day of school is a landmark day at any age, but especially if it’s the day he enters first grade, or she enters middle school. It’s normal to have questions, doubts, and even a few fears related to those big days. “What will my teacher be like? Will I get lost? Will I make a friend?”

These are just a few of the questions your child may be asking and worrying about.

What can you do to help your child manage these normal, but a bit scary feelings?

Here are five tips to help you navigate the queasies this school year.

A week or two before school begins, change your schedule back to your family’s normal school day routine. Go to bed earlier and get up earlier. Practice being ready to be out the door at the normal school time. Up the reading schedule each day and do a little review of basic learning skills such as handwriting and math facts. Get into school mode and that first day won’t come as such a shock.

Do a trial run at the school. Get permission to tour the building if it’s new or just visit the playground and spend a little time. You may have the opportunity to actually meet the new teacher in person or say hello to office staff. Just seeing the facility may help to calm fears of the unknown.

Books to Ease the Back to School Queasies FOR K-3 “First Day of School”

by Margaret McNamara

Talk about first day fears. Let your child know that teachers are a bit nervous and excited on the first day of school too.

Read a book about back to school such as “First Day Jitters” by Julie Danneberg or “Brand-new Pencils, Brand-new Books”

by Diane deGroat. Voicing fears and talking about them is a way to diffuse the tension and turn fears into a positive “looking forward to” kind of feeling.

“First Day, Hooray” by Nancy Poydar

Display confidence in your child’s abilities and coping skills. Kids are quick to pick up on parents’ fears for their safety or success. Show your child you are fully confident that they’ll be fine and that the school year will be a great one. You’re not worried.

“First Grade Jitters” by Julie Danneberg

Let go. Easy to say, but hard to do. Each new school year is an exercise in growth and independence. A few rough patches in the road won’t overcome all the love and support you’ve given your child over the years.

He’ll be fine. She’ll be fine. Just breathe.

Jan Pierce, M.Ed., is a retired teacher and freelance writer.

She is the author of “Homegrown Readers and Homegrown Family Fun”. Find Jan at www.janpierce.net.

“Emily’s First 100 Days of School”

by Rosemary Wells “Amelia Bedelia’s First Day of School”

by Herman Parish “The Night Before First Grade”

by Natasha Wing “First Grade, Here I Come”

by Nancy Carlson “Brand-new Pencils, Brand-new Books”

by Diane deGroat

FOR OLDER CHILDREN “How Not to Start Third Grade”

by Cathy Hapka “The Top 10 Ways to Ruin the First Day of School” by Ken Derby “How to Survive in Middle School”

by Donna Gephart “Middle School: The Stuff Nobody Tells You About” by Haley Moss “A Smart Girl’s Guide to Starting Middle School” by Julie Williams Montalbano “Too Old For this; Too Young For That, Your Survival Guide to Middle School”

by Harriet Mosatche “Middle School: My Brother is a Big, Fat Liar” by James Patterson

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Back to Middle School Bash

By Pam Molnar

Don’t mourn the end of summer. It’s time to embrace the school routine. Help make the transition better by hosting a back to school bash that incorporates your child’s back to school routine in the form of games and challenges.

As your guests start to arrive, let them get started in playing Four Square. Draw the game squares on the driveway and start passing the ball. Other playground games include hacky-sack, jump rope or a simple game of touch football.

LET THE GAMES BEGIN: I Can’t Open My Locker. Borrow combination locks from neighbors and friends. Ask everyone for their combinations and mark them on separate index cards. Put all the locks in one box and have the kids pick a card with a combination. See how fast you can find the right lock and open it.

What Color is It? Purchase a 64 pack of Crayola crayons. Remove wrappers from all the red crayons (there are 23 of them) and work in teams to match the crayon with the correct name.

(Tip: Keep a duplicate set of crayons with the wrappers on to help identify the crayons.) You can also identify the 20 green crayons or 19 blue crayons as well.

Can you Tie your Shoes? This is a great game for the older kids to remind them how awkward it was when they first learned to tie their shoes. Set up the kids in two lines with a pair of mittens and a pair of shoes with laces. On go, the kids will put on the mittens and tie their shoes before passing the mittens on to the next person in line. First team to have all their shoes tied wins.

Pledge Puzzle. Write out the Pledge of Allegiance on note cards using one or two words per card. You will need two sets of cards for this game. Break the kids up into teams and ask them to put the cards in the correct order.

take turns rolling a pair of dice. If you get doubles you can try to unwrap the tape to collect any school supplies in the time it takes the next person to roll doubles.

Make lunch with a friend. This is a fun game to play in teams of two. The players need to hold hands while making a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, cut off the crusts and cut the sandwich in half. The first team to put their finished sandwich into a lunch bag and seal it, wins.

I Can’t Find My... Fill a backpack with school supplies like a protractor, pink eraser, earbuds, red pen, a pack of gum and any other small item a student would carry in his backpack. Fill the rest of the backpack with sweatshirts, books and other large items until the backpack is stuffed. Write the name of each small item you used on a separate index card. Have the kids pick a card and try to find that item in the backpack without taking anything out.

WHAT’S FOR LUNCH: Serve up some simple back to school lunches of sandwiches, chips, fruit, cookies and a juice box. Either pass them out in prepared brown bags or let the kids pick what they want cafeteria style.

GOODY BAGS: The Dollar Store is a great place to find back to school must haves. Don’t limit your items to school supplies. Include hair ties, small storage items, packs of gum, or items for your locker like a mirror or magnetic notepads.

Cool School Supply Ball. Create a ball with shipping tape and add small school supplies like pens, markers, erasers, paperclips, etc. in shipping tape as the ball grows in size. Have all the kids Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three. This is her 14th new school year as a parent.

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Tips for Traveling with your Child with Special Needs

By Amy Kelly

Summer is winding down and it’s the perfect time to take a break and enjoy a vacation filled with fun, relaxation and adventure for the whole family. When it comes to traveling, any parent’s goal is to create lifelong memories for themselves and, of course, for their children.

However, vacations consist of irregular schedules and unfamiliar locations, which can be difficult to navigate for a child with special needs.

To help ease this transition, below are essential tips to follow when traveling with your child with autism or other special needs.

Keep your child in mind when you select a destination: All children are different, just as all children with disabilities are different. Some might prefer a busy amusement park with many sights, sounds and smells, while others might find this type of environment overwhelming. Remember that new and unexpected experiences could result in a meltdown, so no matter what you’re planning, keep your child involved every step of the way. This will give your child a sense of what to expect during the trip. In addition, try to align the activities you choose with your child’s attention span and sensory process capabilities. And be aware of how many excursions you plan, as too many activities could be lead to higher levels of stress for your child (and your whole family).

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Practice travel methods:

Pack the essentials:

Methods of travel a child might not be used to (such as planes or trains) could be difficult for a child to comprehend. If you plan to travel using a mode of transportation that is atypical, it’s a great idea to practice before the big trip. Airports and train stations can be very accommodating when it comes to simulating the experience for children with disabilities. Assure your child that this is a fun adventure you are taking together, and move through every step as you would if it were the real thing. At the airport, this means wheeling your own suitcases, getting your tickets, going through security, waiting at the gate and boarding the plane. Each step takes patience and explanation that should make your child feel more comfortable.

Create a checklist before you leave to make sure nothing gets left behind.

This includes the basics (clothes, socks, underwear, shoes and a toothbrush), but also any communication devices, iPads, sensory/fidget toys or other items that will help soothe your child. Also remember to pack special foods, treats, stuffed animals or toys that provide calm and comfort. All of these items will help avoid a tantrum, give your child the distraction he or she may need, and ultimately bring a familiar piece of home with them.

25 years

Set aside time for routine activities: Vacations are out of the ordinary for everyone involved. But where you or I may find vacations relaxing, a child with a disability may feel increased stress due to uncertainty and unfamiliarity. It’s

helpful to keep your child’s home routine in mind. Do they get tired or restless at specific times? Do they exercise in the afternoon or read in the morning? Try to bring some normality to the situation by setting aside time for naps, play time or something they would typically do at home. This scheduled downtime will ensure you don’t overlook the activity (or lack of activity) and will help avoid potential issues during the day.

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.

Be prepared and have fun!

As you develop a vacation itinerary, it’s a good idea to call each location (waterparks, theme parks, craft sessions, etc.) ahead of time to tell them when you are coming and to discuss your family’s needs. Some locations might offer access to certain rooms, lanes or areas, and they might even have a routine/process they use when entertaining children with disabilities. And while all the preparation in the world might not stop an occasional meltdown, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy this special time with your family.

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

A vacation should be fun, so bring the whole family together, pick a destination and explore all there is to offer in a new and exciting location!

www.SacramentoParent.com/win-it

Amy is the mother to Danny, Annie and Ryan. Annie is diagnosed with moderate to severe autism, verbal apraxia, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and general anxiety disorder. Amy is the Director of Family/ Community Services for Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health, one of the nation’s oldest and largest nonprofit providers of behavioral healthcare, and serves as a family representative on several local and national special needs boards. In addition, she participates with other patients and families in efforts supported by the American Board of Pediatrics Foundation and the Autism Speaks Autism Treatment Network to address children with special needs and the importance of quality care.

WIN IT! Psssst...

Did you know Sacramento Parent readers win free stuff each month? We love giveaways and so we’ve made it quick and easy to enter. The goodies we round up are sure to brighten your day and your odds are great...so, what are you waiting for? Enter and win!

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Special Events for Fa milies with Special Needs These events and activities are put together with thought and care, specifically with special needs children in mind. Do you know of a local event that you would like to share? Email Christine@SacramentoParent.com and we will gladly spread the word!

1 TUESDAY

9 WEDNESDAY

26 SATURDAY

Special Needs Tuesday

Beary Special Playdate

Sensory Storytime

3pm at Sky High Sports, Sacramento

5pm at Sacramento Children’s Museum

10am at North Natomas Library

On Tuesdays, Sky High turns off the music, has a special court opened and special pricing for all of our friends. Special needs jumpers, family and friends that are jumping are only $5 each! www.Sac.SkyHighSports.com/event/ special-needs-tuesday/2017-08-01/

Children with special needs, their families, and their friends are invited to join us for a free evening of Museum Play! Snacks will be served, sponsored by Sacramento Valley Ambulance. www.SacKids.org

This inclusive storytime was developed for kids with Autism and/or sensory disorders. It features songs, stories, sensory activities and interactive materials and is targeted for a developmental age of 2 years to 6 years old. Behaviors and/or noise are no problem.

Siblings are welcome! www.SacLibrary.org

2 WEDNESDAY Sensory Art for Families 4:30pm at Arcade Library

Families will create art using different mediums.

Expect to get messy! www.SacLibrary.org

16 WEDNESDAY Sensory Art for Families 4:30pm at Arcade Library

Families create art using different mediums. Expect to get messy. www.SacLibrary.org

5 SATURDAY

19 SATURDAY

Special Needs Screening

10am at Arden-Dimick Library

11am at Studio Movie Grill, Rocklin

A family-friendly screening of “The Emoji Movie” free for children with special needs and their siblings, with adult tickets available for before-noon price. www.StudioMovieGrill.com/OneStory/ Outreach

6 SUNDAY Sensory Sensitive Sundays 2 hours before opening at Chuck E. Cheese, Roseville & Sacramento

Join Chuck E. Cheese every 1st Sunday of the month, 2 hours before opening for play time specifically designed for children with special needs.

There will be reduced lighting and noise, food and games, and specially trained and caring staff members! www.ChuckECheese.com ExplorABILITY 10am at Sacramento Children’s Museum

A free bi-monthly play-based program for children on the autism spectrum, ages 3 to 10. This program offers opportunities for children to play in the Museum in a safe setting facilitated by a rotation of Sacramento area professionals from a variety of disciplines. This is an RSVP-Only event as space is limited to 20 participants per event. For more info, please email molly@sackids.org or call 916-6387225 ext 103. www.SacKids.org

Autism Friendly Family Movie Join the library for a special family movie event for kids with autism and/or sensory disorders.

Watch "Moana" (PG, 2016). "Typical" toddlers and preschoolers are welcome too! They'll have healthy snacks, the lights will be slightly up, the sound will be slightly down, and kids don't need to remain seated while enjoying the movie. There will also be lots of fidget toys, too! www.SacLibrary.org Special Needs Screening 11am at Studio Movie Grill, Rocklin

A family-friendly screening of “The Nut Job 2: Nutty

by Nature” free for children with special needs and their siblings, with adult tickets available for before-noon price. www.StudioMovieGrill.com/OneStory/ Outreach

28 MONDAY Understanding Special Education 6pm at Raley's Community Room, Roseville

WarmLine created a training for parents of children in special education, knowing they have unique questions and concerns. They will help you understand the special education process, Your child’s IEP and help you prepare for IEP meetings in a positive, proactive way. www.WarmLinefrc.org/trainingsactivities.html

ACCESSIBLE PLAY GROUNDS Folsom Park 50 Natoma Street, Folsom Kloss Park 6501 Laguna Park Drive, Elk Grove Mahany Park 1545 Pleasant Grove Blvd., Roseville Maidu Regional Park 1550 Maidu Drive, Roseville McKinley Park 601 Alhambra Blvd., Sacramento

20 SUNDAY ExplorABILITY 10am at Sacramento Children’s Museum

A free bi-monthly play-based program for children on the autism spectrum, ages 3 to 10. This program offers opportunities for children to play in the Museum in a safe setting facilitated by a rotation of Sacramento area professionals from a variety of disciplines. This is an RSVP-Only event as space is limited to 20 participants per event. For more info, please email molly@sackids.org or call 916-638-7225 ext 103. www.SacKids.org

Southside Park 215 6th Street, Sacramento

GoDandelion.com your link to special needs resources and articles

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CONNECTING PIECES OF COMMUNIT

By Shannon Smith Sometimes, there’s a place you want to check out, but aren’t quite sure what to expect or how it works. A place that almost seems too good to be true, so you think to yourself, there must be a hidden agenda or something I am missing. Yet, as word of mouth travels, you know it’s time to get the scoop and go see for yourself. For me, that was Destiny Community Center, a beautiful public space with classrooms, a coffee shop, an indoor playground, a gym and the list goes on!

BUILT BY THE COMMUNITY FOR THE COMMUNITY

I mean seriously, I can’t think of another place like it in Greater Sacramento.

Who else has opened a space for the community offering free or very low cost resources and programs to those in Greater Sacramento—and just a safe place in general for families—whether they are in need or just need a break for a few hours? There has to be a catch.

As I walked in I was greeted in the reception area and immediately noticed the beautiful space with stained concrete floors, lots of windows pouring in natural light and a warm and inviting cafe with beautiful wood benches and tables offering plenty of space for chatting over a cup of joe.

There, I met Scott, Director of Community Development. He kindly offered me a cup of coffee as I took in my surroundings. Where to begin? First, there was a bit of an elephant in the room, a preconceived notion, that I suspect others may have as well. As Destiny Community Center is the concept of Destiny Church, was I going to get a pitch for the church, or religion in general? The short answer is, No. Destiny Community Center is open to the Greater Sacramento community, regardless of religious affiliation. My second thought was, you probably have to live in Rocklin/Roseville to utilize the center, again...No. While there’s a conve-

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nience factor for those in close proximity, there are families coming from as far as West Sacramento and throughout the region.

Destiny Community Center is in their second year now and continuing to grow and evolve to meet the needs of the public. Scott and the team just wrapped up another successful Celebrate America weekend where they surprised two homeless veterans with tiny homes. The goal of Destiny Community Center is simple, to create a healthy, self-sustaining and thriving community—to come alongside families and give back locally—right here in our very own neighborhoods.

One of the challenges, Scott mentions, is applying for grants when being just over a year-old. With the Destiny Community Center having it’s own Board separate from the Church, they are now partnering with several school districts to fill various needs. Through meeting those needs, what they are doing is quickly gaining steam. As more are encouraged to get involved, organizations are taking notice and reaching out to them to join the cause as well.

You may have seen the #LoveOurCity initiative, a group of volunteers who are out meeting the needs of the community. Whether it’s a local school that needs a fresh coat of paint, or something even bigger like the Backpack Giveaway on August 5th from 9:30am-1:30pm at Johnson Springview Park in Rocklin. This was a huge success last year and a free fun-filled day at the park giving families a chance to pick up a backpack stocked with school supplies for their child (while supplies last), kids can also get a free haircut, pick up needed clothing and families can even bring home a bag of food this year (thanks to the support of Placer Food Bank).

TY TOGETHER Shortly into our conversation, we were joined by Tiffany, Community Center Director and resident expert in just about everything that is offered inside the building. As we toured the center, I was impressed by the facility—everything, from the classrooms to the gym. Although, most classes are offered Monday, Tuesdays and Thursdays, Tiffany encourages families to come visit and enjoy Temple Coffee & Tea, the KidZone, or just meet-up with friends, Mondays through Saturdays.

Tiffany holds Destiny Community Center near and dear to her heart, her entire family is involved and her kids often ask to visit the space (even on her days off).

When she is there, she is easily accessible to families, as was the case with everyone I encountered. She shares that when you walk in, someone in the reception area

will quickly help to connect you with resources to fill whatever your need may be, but if you just want to meet up with a group of friends and catch up over a cup of coffee, or hit the gym, or maybe even beat the heat and just let the kids burn off steam in the KidZone, all are welcome.

After talking with Tiffany and Scott it became clear. There is no hidden agenda other than the shared vision of creating a supportive and thriving community.

The hope of the center is that by helping to fill an immediate need and by offering a safe place to those in the community, those same people will pay it forward and in turn, feel inspired to give back.

Tiffany expresses that although they certainly don’t always have it all figured out, one thing is for sure, they will walk alongside you and offer support.

With the goal of doing good through our community, neighbors and region, 100 percent of Destiny Community Center’s funding goes directly back to the community through programs & services. To learn more or get involved, visit DestinyCommunity.org.

Don’t forget to check DestinyCommunity.org for specific details, program offerings, dates and times. Free childcare is also available while parents are in classes with advance request.

(Class Offerings listed on page 25)

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Only Love Children's Centers is a licensed Child Development Center established in 1983 serving children 3 to 5 years old, offering the highest quality, personalized and responsive care to children and their families in a nurturing, developmental and safe environment with accredited teachers and staff members.

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AUGUST 2017 25

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It’s Time! Teaching Kids Time Management Skills

By Christa Melnyk Hines "What are you doing?!" I say to my son. "I told you five minutes ago to get dressed.

We are leaving for your baseball game!"

Even in my apparent state of frustration, my 6-year-old refuses to be rushed along as he reluctantly tosses his toy plane onto the floor and slowly begins pulling one sock on and then another.

His inner clock shows no urgency. And no amount of lecturing about dilly-dallying is going to expedite my dawdler. So begins another frantic dash out the door.

Although some of us may be inclined to consider punctuality (or the lack thereof) as a personality trait, experts say that time management is a skill that can be taught and is just as important to academic and long-term success as learning The Three Rs. "Time management skills for children are linked to 'school survival skills' when mastered young and become ingrained habits for later in life," says Dr. Stephanie Mihalas, a nationally certified school psychologist and clinical instructor, department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences at UCLA. "Starting too young is never too early!"

needs to finish his math assignment and then time him. With practice, he'll start to realize how long each task actually takes.

"A great tool is TimeTimer (www.timetimer.com) which is like a kitchen timer (either a stand alone tool or an app) that shows time in stopwatch fashion with the time remaining in red," says Cindy Sullivan, a productivity, time management and professional organization expert. "As the red shrinks you are getting closer to the end time. It works great with homework or when doing a 'beat the clock' to tidy up or work on other tasks."

Timers can also work well to keep parents on track, says Dr. Jane Sosland, clinical assistant professor, department of Behavioral Pediatrics, University of Kansas Medical Center.

"A lot of times we'll say, 'I need you to brush your teeth. I'll be back in five minutes.' Then we get busy with

other children," Sosland says.

Use your microwave or your phone timer to help remind you when it's time to check on your child.

Create a chunked to-do schedule. Divide the day into chunks of time on a dry erase board or laminate a task list. For example, the morning routine might say: Get dressed, make bed, eat breakfast and brush teeth. Your child can check off the tasks as she completes them.

Offer incentives. "The more checks can be linked to a natural reward like time with the family, helping to create the meal for the evening or play time with friends," Mihalas says.

Fewer checks results in natural consequences like less time to play with friends or watch a favorite TV program before school.

Use visuals. For children who aren't reading yet, photographs or pictures can help cue them.

"I helped my son take responsibility for his morning routine as a kindergartner by drawing pictures on post-it notes of school clothes,

Time management includes executive functioning skills like organization and planning, reviewing work for quality and accuracy and staying focused.

Schedule weekly family meetings. Use Sunday evenings to discuss the family's upcoming schedule. Give each child her own calendar that she can fill out. Hang up a master schedule with each person's activities in a different color of ink.

Time continued on page 29

Use a timer. Build awareness about how long it takes to complete a task. Ask your child to estimate how much time he Celebrating 25 years O sacramentoparent.com

AUGUST 2017 27

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Time continued from page 27

eating breakfast, driving to school and stuck them on an analog clock," says mom of two Sherlyn Pang Luedtke, author of “The Mommy Advantage”.

Luedtke says that the day her son was still sitting in his pajamas when it was time to go, she calmly put him in the car with his clothes and shoes next to him. "He got dressed while the car was in the driveway with the engine running," she says.

If at first you don't succeed, keep trying. Changing old habits can take at least a month, and kids don't usually share the same sense of urgency as adults do.

"If a morning goes poorly, rather than being furious and upset on the way to school, try and problem solve to decide what to do tomorrow so this doesn't happen again. Maybe that's waking up a few minutes earlier," Sosland says.

Looking for additional resources? Check out “Smart but Scattered” by Peg Dawson, Ed.D., and Richard Guare, Ph.D. Poor executive functioning can be a sign of ADD/ADHD. If you are concerned, consult with your family physician.

Freelance journalist, Christa Melnyk Hines, is a mom of two boys and the author of “Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World”.

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The Buzz on Coffee

By Sandra Gordon

Coffee—oh how we love thee. It’s an eye opener after a sleepless night with the baby, a reason to get together with friends and a comforting ritual. Here’s the brewhaha behind this potent pick-me-up, plus tips on how to perfect your own small batch.

First, A History Lesson Coffee goes way back. According to legend, coffee was discovered in ancient Ethiopia when a goat herder noticed that his goats didn’t sleep at night after eating the berries from a certain tree. (Coffee beans are the pit of a red berry; they’re technically a fruit.) The herder reported his findings to a local monastery and soon, word about the energizing berries, and the drink that could be made from them, began to spread.

Boston Tea Party Ignites Coffee Craze Flash forward. By the 16th Century, coffee was being grown and traded in Persia (Iran), Egypt, Syria and Turkey.

Known as the “wine of Araby,” coffee made its way to New York (then called New Am-

sterdam) in the mid-1600s, when the British brought it over. Tea was more popular until 1773, when the colonists revolted against King George III’s heavy tax on tea—the famous Boston Tea Party. At that point, Americans began preferring coffee, according to the National Coffee Association. Today, 85 percent of Americans consume at least one caffeinated beverage a day; 80 percent of the time, it’s coffee.

Hot Property Coffee beans are grown near the equator, between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn in 60 countries. There are two basic types of coffee species: Arabica and Robusta.

Arabica coffee beans are grow at 2500 feet above sea level.

Only 30 of the coffee-producing countries, such as Brazil, Columbia, northern Sumatra and Mexico, grow coffee at this lofty elevation. Arabica coffee is also grown in Hawaii.

Due to a mystical combination of geography, atmospheric conditions and rainfall, “Arabica beans make the best coffee,” Wilson says. “They’re a more flavorful bean.” They’re also some of the most costly coffee in the world.

Robusta beans grow at lower altitudes, in countries such as Vietnam and the lowland areas of Southern Sumatra and Java in Indonesia. They’re typically less expensive.

Canned coffee in the supermarket, for example, is likely Robusta unless “Arabica” is on the package. Robusta flavor tends to be less intense, which some consumers prefer.

The Dark Period Before roasting, Arabica and Robusta coffee beans are green (think split peas).

During the roasting process, however, when over 700 chemical changes take place, they become dark, plump and lightweight because they lose about 20 percent of their water weight. The darker the roast, the less caffeine the bean contains. “It’s the opposite of what most people think,” Wilson says.

Caffeine Counts Arabica beans have 50 percent less caffeine than Robusta beans, according to the Institute for Scientific Information on Coffee. The brewing method can also make a difference. Espresso, for example, which uses finely ground beans and an espresso machine to extract coffee at high temperatures, contains 63 milligrams of caffeine per fluid ounce (one shot).

Regular brewed coffee, on the other hand, contains 12 milligrams of caffeine per fluid ounce, according to the USDA. But because you typically drink eight ounces of regular coffee at a time, you’ll consume more caffeine in one sitting (95 milligrams) from regular coffee than espresso

or a latte or cappuccino made with a single espresso shot.

Tricks to Home Brewing the Perfect Cup 1. Start with fresh whole beans and grind them right before brewing. (Sorry K-Cup fans. Coffee aficionados consider them the fast food of coffee.) “Starting with whole beans is the single most important thing you can do,” says Shawn Steiman, Ph.D, author of “The Little Coffee Know-It-All”.

That’s because once whole roasted coffee beans are ground, gasses, such as carbon dioxide, start to escape from the beans, while oxygen gets ushered in, both of which can affect freshness and flavor.

2. Use the grind that’s the best match for your coffee-making method. For a French press, go with coarse grind akin to sea salt, and for a drip coffee maker, such as Mr. Coffee, use medium grind (think sand).

For an espresso machine, use finely-ground coffee.

3. Use hot enough water by setting your coffee maker.

“Most drip coffee machines, such as Mr. Coffee, are set at 180 degrees, but 200 degrees is optimal because hotter water yields more flavor,” Steiman says. “It’s just chemical extraction.”

Coffee continued on page 33

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AUGUST 2017 31

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Coffee continued from page 31

4. To maximize freshness for next time, store whole coffee beans in a sealed container, even just a Ziploc bag, anywhere you’d like—on the counter, refrigerator or freezer.

Decaf Deconstructed Coffee beans naturally contain caffeine. To make decaf, caffeine is extracted. Green coffee beans are steamed open and soaked in water, which leaches out the caffeine and some of the bean’s flavorful oils. Caffeine is then removed from the water through a chemical or filtration method.

The beans then get returned to the decaffeinated water to absorb the flavorful coffee oils. There’s still a tiny amount of caffeine in decaffeinated coffee beans (2 milligrams of caffeine per 8-ounce cup of brewed decaf) and there’s a slight difference in taste. But you still get the flavor and aroma.

What’s the Deal with Fair Trade?

Fair Trade coffee is designed to help small-scale farmers escape poverty. Because the supply of coffee is often greater than demand, farmers, especially those in remote locations, aren’t always paid enough for their coffee bean

crops to live on. Fair Trade is designed to protect them by creating a base price for coffee beans so they can earn a sustainable living. Fair Trade guarantees farmers a fair price. The downside?

The socio-economic model doesn’t always correlate with quality, Steiman says, because a farmer’s agricultural skills can affect the end product, Fair Trade or not.

The Thrill of the Chill Cold brew is trending now for good reason: “It’s fabulous,” Wilson says. As the basis of iced coffee, cold brew has a clean flavor that’s not bitter.

It’s easy to make at home. Like hot coffee, start with whole beans and grind them to the texture of sand. Add ground coffee to cold water in whatever ratio you prefer. One part ground coffee to four parts water is a good bet. That is, if you use 40 ounces of water, use 10 ounces of ground coffee. Let the coffee/water mixture steep in the refrigerator or at room temperature for 16 to 20 hours. Filter the grounds and serve cold brew over ice with a splash of cream, if you like.

What the Coffee Geeks Prefer What’s the best way to make coffee? Both Wilson and Steiman prefer French-press coffee, which doesn’t use a filter. The brewing method water and coffee grounds mingle in the pot together for a few minutes. The gist? Using a French-press coffee pot, pour boiling water over the specified amount of grounds (check the instructions on

your pot) and steep for two to four minutes with the lid on.

Then take the plunge: Push the grounds to the bottom of the beaker, to separate the liquid from the solids. Pour and enjoy.

“French press makes the best coffee there is, particularly if you start with great coffee,” Wilson says. Because there’s no filter, expect a bit of grit.

Another caveat: Studies have shown that long-term Frenchpress coffee consumption can raise LDL (the “bad”) cholesterol levels. So, consider it a splurge.

Is Coffee Good for You? Despite the bad rep with French-press coffee, filtered coffee certainly can be healthy over the long haul. It’s associated with lower risks of type 2 diabetes, some types of cancer and neurological diseases.

According to a Circulation study, it may even help you live longer. The study analyzed the coffee consumption of 167,944 women and 40,557 men for over 30 years. Subjects who drank a moderate amount of regular or decaf coffee—one to five daily cups—were less likely to die prematurely than the non coffee drinkers.

peak about 30 to 45 minutes after you’ve consumed it. But don’t gulp down two cups first thing to turbocharge your day. A study involving U.S. Navy Seals found that an average of 300 mg of caffeine (equivalent to three cups of coffee) consumed throughout the day is optimal for most people for peak mental and physical performance.

How Much is Too Much?

If coffee make you feel jittery, keeps you up at night or gives you heartburn, go easy on the joe, likewise if you’re pregnant or trying to conceive. Consuming too much caffeine— more than four daily cups for women (and their partners) may increase the risk of miscarriage or low birth weight.

Still, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists maintains that moderate consumption (less than 200 milligrams of caffeine per day) is safe for most pregnant women.

Sandra Gordon is an award-winning freelance writer who delivers expert advice and the latest developments in health, nutrition, parenting and consumer issues.

Caffeine is the Ultimate Power Tool Caffeine boosts brain power and memory, makes you feel more vigorous and improves mood. It blocks the action of adenosine, an organic compound in the brain that promotes sleep, to fire up brain cells. Blood levels of caffeine

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Phone-less and Fancy Free Take time to shut down. It’s worth it.

By Allison Hopkins

O “WiFi went down for five

minutes so I had to talk to my family. They seem like nice people.”

-DespicableMeMinions.org

Who knew there were so many hilarious minion quotes online? This one stuck with me. As I prepared for a 10-day trip to Maui with my family at the beginning of summer break, I decided to take the challenge and turn the iPhone off, completely. It was the best thing I’ve done in a long time!

Here’s my observation from the outside looking in.

O

Our flight was early (5am) and it was still dark out as we loaded into the hotel shuttle at the same time as the Hawaiian Airlines crew.

With bright shirts and beautiful flowers behind their ears, I started to anticipate the tropical island awaiting. Immediately inside the bus, each flight attendant turned on their phone and stared at a lit-up screen until we arrived at the airport.

People watching at the airport has always been amusing but often risky....but, guess what? Now that everyone is on their phone, no one even notices you! As I looked around, again, many travelers stared at their phones while waiting for their zone to be called. Whatever happened to just sitting and being completely bored? Looking out the window for your plane? I realized that I, like most everyone else, hardly ever sat and did absolutely nothing. My “in-between” time is often filled with checking email, texts, the weather, Redfin, and my favorite shopping app, Poshmark.

Shutting down in Maui was interesting and easier than I thought. The first thing I noticed was a feeling that I should text a picture to someone, to show them how awesome the pools at this resort were. So back in the day, we would have printed our photos at the end of the trip and shared the album with friends, and now it’s this feeling that everyone might be interested in what we are doing right now and they should stop what they are doing to see. Exactly why I have stayed off social media! That instinct to share went away after a couple of days.

The main difference was simply not knowing everything all the time.

If my husband and I went different directions to pick up food or snorkeling gear or head back to the room, I had no idea how long that would take. If I had my phone, I probably would have been checking in with him, “There’s a long line at the grocery store,” or “Make sure to get the sunscreen.” It’s that feeling that we are always available and always nagging. I felt FREE! While on the trip, I took note of the use of electronics and many travelers were reading a paperback, or napping, or simply watching their kids in the pool. Some were actually sitting in the pool while looking at their phone (you had to make a beeline to get a chair on that shallow ledge in the pool...my favorite spot)! At one point, the two kids my nine-year-old son had been playing with in the pool were looking at a cell phone that one of the girls had in a waterproof case; she was claiming that it allowed her to play video games underPhone-less continued on page 37

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Phone-less continued from page 35

water. All of their eyes practically popped out of their heads at the thought of this. She quickly put her phone away to make sure it didn’t actually get wet; it was more of a show-and-tell than anything. The kids went back to swimming...

Another thing I noticed is that if you aren’t on your phone, you are more likely to meet people, which in my opinion, is an awesome part of a trip! Like the woman sunbathing on the chair next to me from Texas. I shared with her that I was exclusively reading romance novels that took place in Texas while on this trip, which of course, led to further conversation. I had just gotten out of the pool and had been talking with a boy from South Carolina who said “yes ma’am” and “no ma’am” to all my questions (which I LOVED) so I asked her if that was the same with all children in Texas. She gave me a strange look and explained that yes, of course, this was always expected. Turns out she was actually shocked during a visit to California to find the kids did not do the same. Yikes! This gave me an idea for an entirely different article, but in some ways it ties into electronics as well. How many times have you tried to get a kid’s attention but they are too busy staring at a screen?

At the end of the trip, I was not looking forward to turning the phone back on. However, I was surprised at how little awaited

me. Was I not so important? I had given most people a heads up, so they didn’t wonder why I didn’t get back to them. But I expected to be flooded with information, questions, demands... and I wasn’t. So I am pondering, can I really bring back the flip phone?

The best part of being phone free: being with my family. No interruptions. Being mindful. It was not only a great thing for myself, but for my son, who sometimes decides it’s his job to go check my message if he hears a ‘ding.’ We give so much time to all the distractions that it’s easy to forget what’s most important. Try it!

Allison Hopkins has been a freelance writer and editor in the Sacramento area since 2002. She enjoys spending time with her husband and son. She is also an aunt to four special nephews and a spectacular niece!

TM

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tuesday

thursday

wednesday

1

2

3

Acoustic Guitar Club

National Coloring Book Day

Book Signing

6:30pm at Nicholsons MusiCafe

10am at Gifts From The Heart Of Elk Grove

5pm at Face in a Book, El Dorado Hills

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

The acoustic guitar club is all about sharing ideas, learning, and playing music together. For all ages and levels of experience! www.NicholsonsMusic.com

Leap, learn, build and celebrate all month long! Be sure to check Sacra mentoParent. com for more fa mily fun and local adventures!

Pop-up Book Sale

Drop by to celebrate National Coloring Book Day. People of all ages can enjoy the the relaxation and artistic expression that comes from coloring. www.GiftsFromTheHeartOfElkGrove.weebly.com

Author, Erin Dealey will be doing a book signing for her new book, “K is for Kindergarten,” a delightful picture book will help the transition with silly rhymes and fun activities from A to Z. www.GetYourFaceInaBook.com

11:30am at Belle Cooledge Library

Science Night Live

The sale will have books for all ages and is held at the entrance to the library and the Friends Bookstore will be open during regular hours. www.SacLibrary.org

6pm at WOW Science Museum

Mad Science

8

Wild Things

Storytime

What? Wild animals at the library?

Yes, Miss Angela is crazy like that.

Meet wild animals and hear their amazing stories! www.SacLibrary.org

4pm at Arden-Dimick Library

9:30am at Karen’s Bakery, Folsom

Animal Olympics, August 5th

Visit Karen’s Bakery in Old Folsom every 2nd Tuesday of the month for a special storytime featuring zoo animals. www.FolsomZooFriends.org

9

15

Cypher Hip Hop Workshop

Baby Loves Art

Learn and participate in rapping, breakdancing, DJing, and learn how the movement began. www.SacLibrary.org

10:30am at Crocker Art Museum

Engages babies 0-18 months in a visually stimulating gallery walk and gives parents and caregivers a fun opportunity to connect with their babies and each other. Baby noises are expected and welcome. www.CrockerArtMuseum.org Ice Cream Social with Andy Amyx 6pm at McKinley Library

Lunar Lunacy, August 5th

An engaging science experience within a casual atmosphere for the curious minds in our community. www.WowScienceMuseum.org

Face painting and free ice cream for everyone! Then stay for a magic show with Andy Amyx. He will astound and entertain you with amazing illusions, card and coin tricks, audience participation, humor, and birds! www.SacLibrary.org

22 Free Train Ride 10am at the Fountains in Roseville

Free train ride for kids every Tuesday!

Children 3 and over ride for free by themselves, parents ride free with children under 3. www.FountainsAtRoseville.com

2pm at Carmichael Library

My First School Party 4:30pm at Arcade Library

Pre-K or Kindergarteners will learn about circle time, name tags, transition songs and stories and ease first day anxiety and fear. Snack provided, registration required. www.SacLibrary.org

16 Ice Cream Social with The Great Scot 4pm at Ella K. McClatchy Library

Be astounded with amazing illusions, magic tricks, audience participation, and humor! Then stay and enjoy free ice cream for everyone. www.SacLibrary.org

23 Magic Show with Magician Jonathan Lopez 3:30pm at Elk Grove Library

A fun, fabulous and interactive magic show. www.SacLibrary.org

30 Make Crafts with Art Beast 3:30pm at Elk Grove Library

Show your creative side by making wonderful art with Art Beast! www.SacLibrary.org

Curtis Fest, August 6th

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10am and 10:50am at El Dorado Hills Library

Stop by the library during the week before to get your free tickets to the show. www.ElDoradoLibrary.org

10 Free Family Bike Night 5:30pm at Safetyville USA

Scooters, trikes, bikes, rollerskates, are all welcome. Be sure to bring a helmet and ride around this typical American town built at 1/3 scale. www.SafetyCenter.org Music Time with NewSongs of Elk Grove 11am at Elk Grove Library

Move and groove to music and stories from NewSongs of Elk Grove. A series of four sessions on Thursdays, August 10, 17, 24 and 31st. www.SacLibrary.org

17 Coding for Kids 3:30pm at McKinley Library

Want to learn how to code, while playing fun games? Then come to this free, beginner-friendly, drop-in program. Spots are first-come, firstserved. Recommended for ages 10 to 18. www.SacLibrary.org Family Night 4pm at Sky High Sports, Sacramento

Family of four enjoys 4-single hours of jump time, a choice of one large pepperoni or cheese pizza & 4 ice cold bottles of water for $35. www.Sac.SkyHighSports.com

24 Music Time with NewSongs of Elk Grove 11am at Elk Grove Library

Move and groove to music and stories from NewSongs of Elk Grove. A series of four sessions on Thursdays in August. www.SacLibrary.org

friday

monday

sunday

saturday

4

5

6

7

Float-In Movie Night

Animal Olympics (8/5-8/6)

Character Dining with Ariel

All Aboard for Storytime

7:30pm at Rutter Swim Center, Sacramento

12:30pm at Fairytale Town

6pm at Sacramento Pizza Company

11am at California State Railroad Museum

Stay cool on a hot summer night and enjoy some of your favorite flicks at this popular Float-in Movie Night. www.SouthGateRecAndPark.net

Magician and ventriloquist, Tony Borders presents Animal Olympics in the Children’s Theater. Animals learn their amazing abilities in this fact-filled comedy show! www.FairytaleTown.org

A sing along story time and a pictures with Ariel. Free kids activities will be provided as well. www.SacPizzaCo.com

Lunar Lunacy

Your kids will be so proud to have made it themselves! Intended for children 8 years and older. www.Stores.Joann.com/ca/ folsom/2203/

An interactive program designed for imaginative children ages two to five.

Museum staff will read a different railroad-related book and afterward, little ones can enjoy the Museum with their parents. www.CaliforniaRailroad.museum

Little Dippers Swim Program 10:30am at Folsom Aquatic Center

An opportunity for youngsters six and under (with their parents) to splash and play in the activity pool and increase water confidence in a less-crowded environment. www.Folsom.ca.us Mission Imagination 3pm at McKinley Library

The library will issue challenges, such as building a fort, putting on a puppet show, or making a gigantic ball of tape. Use your imagination to make them come to life! www.SacLibrary.org Screen on the Green 8pm at Glenn Hall Park, Sacramento

Enjoy free popcorn and watch “The LEGO Batman Movie” in the park with your neighbors! www.SacScreenOnTheGreen.com

11 Family Campout at Fairytale Town 5:30pm through Saturday, Aug. 12, 7am

This overnight adventure includes a theater show, arts and crafts activities, a scavenger hunt, fun games, and bedtime stories. Wake up to a light continental breakfast. www.TairytaleTown.org Hot Dog Hoe Down 7:30pm at Orangevale Community Pool

Enjoy a hot dog meal, swimming, themed games, activities and more!

Tickets are limited; advance registration is recommended. www.OvParks.com

18 Design a Motorized Scribble-Bot! 6pm at Isleton Library

A scribble-bot is a little robot that colors on its own using a vibrating motor that helps the robot skip across a piece of paper with it’s “legs” as art supplies. www.SacLibrary.org

25 Outdoor Summer Movie 7:30pm at the Rizal Center near Southgate

Enjoy a summer evening outdoors with a movie on the backstage of the Rizal Community Center! www.SacLibrary.org

7pm at Capitol Mall

Bike under the moonlight enjoying Sacramento’s iconic landmarks. Hit the finish line and enjoy food trucks, live music, and vendor booths.

Costumes, neon lights, and creativity encouraged. www.LunarLunacyRide.com Musical Robot 2pm at Belle Cooledge Library

“If You are a Robot and You Know It,” join an interactive musical and storytelling performance sure to get kids and parents laughing. www.SacLibrary.org The Color Run 8am at Raley Field, Sacramento

A unique paint race celebrating health, happiness and individuality with a Purple Color Zone, giant unicorns, a Unicorn Medal, and the Lay’s® Poppables™ Foam Zone! www.TheColorRun.com/locations/ sacramento-ca

12 Art for Families 1pm at Sacramento Fine Arts Center

Kids Sew a Pillowcase 4pm at Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft, Folsom

13 Eureka!

1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center

Learn about some of the local Gold Rush history and get your hands dirty as you learn how to pan for gold in hopes of striking it rich. www.SacNatureCenter.net Peach Festival

9am at California State Capitol - West Steps

A nationwide Make-A-Wish® fundraiser celebrating more than 270,000 wishes granted, while raising funds for future wishes.

Site.wish.org/site/TR/Events/ General?fr_id=2190&pg=entry#.

WV5_memQyUl

Open Play 9:30am at Climbaroo

Dance & Play with Climbaroo! Fun for the whole family! www.Climbaroo.com

21 11am at California State Railroad Museum

An interactive program designed for imaginative children ages two to five.

Museum staff will read a different railroad-related book and afterward, little ones can enjoy the Museum with their parents. www.CaliforniaRailroad.museum

20

Game Night at Fat Rabbit

Music and Dance to the Rhythms of India

A wide variety of games to play, good friendly gamers, and a great space and atmosphere to play in. This is a free, family-friendly event. www.Facebook.com/ TheGameGetaway/events

4pm at Arcade Library, Sacramento

Bat House Building

Walk for Wishes

14

All Aboard for Storytime

19 Get all-you-can-eat ice cream in cones, sundaes and floats and unlimited Coca-Cola beverages, all sponsored

by SolarCity. Explore the 14-acre Zoo with ice cream treats around every corner! www.SacZoo.org

Every Monday Sky High Sports offers Unlimited Jump for $15. www.Sac.SkyHighSports.com

A day of all things peaches! This event is fun for the whole family and includes free kids crafts, games, and prizes, raffle prizes, peach eating contest, Peach Walk, Best Peach Dessert Contest and more! www.BeMoneySmartUSA.org/ peach-festival

Music and dance presented by Heera Kulkarni with Panchatantra Storytelling, ancient stories written in 200 B.C. www.SacLibrary.org

4pm at Sacramento Zoo

4pm at Sky High Sports, Sacramento

9am at Carmichael Park Farmers Market

Professional artists and volunteers will demonstrate and assist with all projects. All materials provided by the Center. www.SacFineArts.org

Ice Cream Safari

Unlimited Monday

27 10am at Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area Headquarters

A fun activity for small groups or families, including an opportunity to build a bat house and a live viewing of several native species of bats. Supplies and instruction provided. www.YoloBasin.org/battalkandwalks

6pm at Fat Rabbit, Folsom

28 Game Night at Fat Rabbit 6pm at Fat Rabbit, Folsom

A wide variety of games to play, good friendly gamers, and a great space and atmosphere to play in. This is a free, family-friendly event. www.Facebook.com/ TheGameGetaway/events

Curtis Fest 10am at William Curtis Park

Over 60 local artisans will gather under the beautiful canopy of trees at Curtis Park! Live music, food trucks, a petting zoo, children’s fairy and a pet refreshment station makes this a great way to finish out the summer. www.Sierra2.org/event/ curtis-fest/

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calendar/exhibits

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

In the Style of the Old Masters Exhibit

The Brightsiders Exhibit

August 15-September 3 at Sacramento Fine Arts Center

Through August 20 at Verge Center for the Arts

Sacramento Fine Arts Center presents, “In the Style of The Old Masters”. This show features both local and international artists that are inspired by the work of the groundbreaking and avant-garde artist of the past. Gothic, Baroque, Abstract, Realism, Historic, Daguerreotype, Impressionist, Carte-de-visite, Romantic, Rayograph, and Camera obscuras are just some of the types of art that are featured in this diverse and informative show. www.SacFineArts.org

Verge Center for the Arts is pleased to present, “The Brightsiders”, an exhibit curated by Adam D. Miller, who is co-founder of the L.A. based gallery, The Pit. This exhibition brings together painting and sculpture from eighteen artists based in Los Angeles.

“The Brightsiders” is an attempt to spark a dialogue between the LA art community and California’s capitol city. It is impossible to say that any type of art is “uniquely LA” because all types of artists reside there, and with such diverse practices. www.VergeArt.com

Let Us Keep Time With Our Mother Earth: Exhibit by Charley Burns Through August 30 at Maidu Museum & Historic Site

Enjoy the vibrant pen and ink illustrations of Charley Burns. A Yurok Indian of Humboldt County, Charley has a B.A. in Art from Humboldt State University and is an active participant in the cultural ceremonies of his people. www.Roseville.ca.us Summer of Love Through October 2 at Rancho Cordova City Hall

It’s been 50 years since the Hippies descended upon Haight-Ashbury in San Francisco for one of the most iconic summers ever. Put some flowers in your hair and create something groovy for the 20th of our City Hall shows. www.CordovaCouncil.org

Unity Center Opening August 26 at California Museum

The Unity Center at the California Museum celebrates the state’s diverse people, customs and cultures. Members of the public are invited to celebrate the grand opening of the Unity Center, a new long-term exhibition empowering visitors to stand up for unity in our community. The festivities include: free admission, a welcome message by Mayor Darrell Steinberg, civil rights panel discussion moderated by Lisa Ling, live music, dance and spoken word performances and hands-on demonstrations and kids’ activities, too! www.CaliforniaMuseum.org

August 10-20 at Mural sites throughout Sacramento County

Wide Open Walls will transform our capital city into a giant, free public art gallery and be a celebration of artistic expression, diversity, and community.

The largest event of its kind on the west coast, it will bring together over 40 artists—including local artists and artists from all over the world—to create large-scale, outdoor murals on 36 walls throughout the Sacramento region. www.Wow916.com Wish You Were Here Art Exhibit Through August 31 at Gallery at 48 Natoma

Educational Supplies for Parents, Teachers & Homeschoolers

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25 years

Now Registering!

Fall Classes!

Summer is traditionally the time for vacations, but if you can’t go abroad this time of year, do the next best thing and come to the Gallery at 48 Natoma in Folsom to see the newest exhibit, “Wish You Were Here”. Three northern Californian artists have specialized in subjects from their many travels; beautiful towering cathedrals, colorful houses clustered on hillsides, and quaint city cafes are just a few of the scenes portrayed by Barbara Kempe watercolors, David Crosby photographs, and Phillip McDonel sketchbooks. www.Folsom.ca.us

calendar/shows

All phone numbers are area code (916) unless otherwise noted

Behind the Barre: Made in Sacramento

August 25-27 at Crest Theatre Capital Dance Project, (CDP) has partnered with the Sacramento Kings and Kings Foundation to sponsor the first-ever sensory-friendly dance performance in the area. This performance is part of an outreach effort designed specifically for individuals with Autism and other sensory related disabilities to attend with their families. www.CrestSacramento.com

Come Back to the Five and Dime, Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean

August 4-20 at Mesa Verde Performing Arts Center This 1976 play, later interpreted into a movie of the same title, is set in a small town outside of Marfa, Texas. Although it was written over 40 years ago, the play tackles hard issues that are even more relevant today than when it was first produced. www.ErrantPhoenix.com/shows

Damn Yankees

Sister Act

Miss Saigon-An Epic Musical

The Jungle Book Kids

August 8-13 at Wells Fargo Pavilion Mega-fan Joe Boyd trades his soul to lead his beloved Washington Senators to victory over the New York Yankees, only to realize the true worth of the life he left behind. www.CaliforniaMusicalTheatre.com August 18-27 at Del Oro Performing Arts Center 6 Players Studio Theatre, The Company at Del Oro Theater Arts, Leroy Martinez (featured artist from “So You Think You Can Dance”) and Placer County Youth Orchestra are excited to collaborate and produce the sensational musical. Recommended for ages 13 and up. www.6PlayersTheatre.com

August 22-27 at Wells Fargo Pavilion Based on the hit 1992 film, this uplifting musical comedy is a sparkling tribute to the universal power of sisterhood, with a score by Tony and Oscar-winning composer Alan Menken. www.CaliforniaMusicalTheatre.com

August 5-20 at Sutter Street Theatre Specially adapted from the classic Disney animated film, featuring a host of colorful characters and your favorite songs from the movie. Banished by the ferocious tiger, Shere Khan, a human boy named Mowgli and his panther friend, Bagheera, are on the run in the deepest parts of the jungle.

How will their journey end? www.SutterStreetTheatre.com

PARTY

LANGUAGE Like us:

NEW!! Full-Day & Half-Day Spanish Preschool Age Program!

M-F 8-5 PM PICK YOUR DAYS REGISTER NOW LIMITED SPACE

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

Ages 2.5 - 5 Years

Folsom • Sacramento Arden Arcade Area

SPACE IS LIMITED—CALL NOW! (916) 486-8276 www.thespanishimmersion.com

Award Winning Balloon Artist!

SPECIAL NEEDS

MUSIC

OUR MISSION ...is to help each child discover their unique potential - adaptively, behaviorally, cognitively, and socially by providing comprehensive behavior intervention services. We teach to never settle for mediocrity but to always strive for more.

New Sacramento Location 333 University Drive, Ste. 200 | Sacramento, CA 95825

855.581.0100

Visit our website to learn more about our wide variety of services:

www.AutismBehaviorServices.com

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calendar/on repeat

AUGUST 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Hello Summer Nights!

Last call for sizzlin’ summer events under the stars!

By Christine Quarry

Photographs courtesy of Saturday Nights at the Barn presented by Off the Grid Markets

WEDNESDAYS

PALLADIO SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

7pm at Palladio (Piazza near the fountain), Folsom www.GoPalladio.com Head out to the Palladio on Wednesday’s for live music from the area’s best bands.

AUGUST 2 POP FICTION

Party Dance Band AUGUST 9 SUPERLICIOUS

80’s Flashback Cover Band AUGUST 16 THE SPAZMATICS

Nerds That Rock AUGUST 23 THUNDER COVER

Energetic, Dance, Cover Band AUGUST 30 CHEESEBALLS

High Energy Dance Party Band

THURSDAYS

FAIR OAKS CONCERTS IN THE PARK

6:30 at Village Park, Fair Oaks www.FairOaksPark.org Concerts in the Park are a free series of concerts for the Fair Oaks Community. It’s an opportunity for families to come together to enjoy a relaxing summer evening in the park.

AUGUST 3 TWO TONE STEINY & THE CADILLACS

West Coast Blues

AUGUST 10 MATT RAINEY & THE DIPPIN’ SAUCE Blues AUGUST 17 TODD MORGAN & THE EMBLEMS

Pop, Rock n’ Roll, 50’s & 60’s

LIVE ON THE BOULEVARD

6:30pm at El Dorado Hills Town Center www.EDHTownCenter.com Enjoy live bands and lively, family-friendly crowds each week at the Steven Young Amphitheater.

AUGUST 3 MANIA

The Live Beatles Experience

AUGUST 10 KENNY METCALF AS ELTON JOHN 42 AUGUST 2017 sacramentoparent.com O Celebrating

AUGUST 17 ISLAND OF BLACK & WHITE

Reggae & Blues, Rock

Eagles Tribute

for a fun evening of free music in the park. Pack a picnic basket or choose from a variety of foods for purchase as you soak in these summer nights.

AUGUST 24 LIFE IN THE FASTLANE AUGUST 31 SKYNNYN LYNNYRD Tribute

FRIDAYS

SUMMER CONCERTS IN THE PARK

7pm at El Dorado Hills Community Park www.ElDoradoHillsCSD.org Free friday night concerts at the community park. Live music, food, bounce houses, and children’s activities.

AUGUST 11 COVER ME BADD

AUGUST 5 DAVE RUSSELL BAND

Uptempo, Cool but Hot Country Favorites

Variety Swing to Rock

80’s Funk, R&B, Old School, Cumbia

Genre-Bending Americana

Classic Rock, Power Horns

Big Band, Patriotic, Symphonic

AUGUST 6 JOHN SKINNER BAND AUGUST 12 LATIN TOUCH

AUGUST 19 MUMBO GUMBO AUGUST 26 ON AIR

AUGUST 27 RIVER CITY CONCERT BAND

Popular Dance Hits

FOUNTAINS SATURDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES

FIRST FRIDAY STREET FAIR

8pm at The Fountains, Roseville www.FountainsAtRoseville.com Sing, Dance & Rock Out! Every Saturday night through September, we bring in headlining concerts to perform on our main stage. From Country to Rock, we have a full roster of bands lined up this summer.

6pm at The Fountains, Roseville www.FountainsAtRoseville.com Party Down Main Street! Stop by August 4th to enjoy crafters, artisans, car shows, and a variety of activities for the kids in the Kids Zone. Plus a few surprises along the way. It’s a great night out for the whole family!

FREE MOVIE FRIDAYS!

7pm at Kathy Lund Park www.Rocklin.ca.us The City of Rocklin is proud to announce some of the biggest box office hits for you to enjoy!

Cozy up on your blankets or low profile chairs and enjoy a free movie under the stars! Get there around 7 pm to get a good seat and listen to all the great music, the movie will begin after dark at around 9pm. Admission is free!

AUGUST 4 LEGO BATMAN

WEEKENDS

CARMICHAEL CONCERTS IN THE PARK

6:30pm at Daniel Bishop Memorial Pavilionwww.CarmichaelPark.com Bring your family, friends, blanket and lawn chairs

25 years

AUGUST 5 THE VINTAGE VANDALS

Rockability, Rock & Roll

Tribute to Woodstock

Tribute to Tom Petty

Tribute to Journey, Classic Rock

AUGUST 12 KEEP ON TRUCKIN

AUGUST 19 GREAT WIDE OPEN

AUGUST 26 JOURNEY REVISITED SATURDAY NIGHTS AT THE BARN PRESENTED BY OFF THE GRID MARKETS

5pm at the Barn, West Sacramento www.Facebook.com/offthegridsac/ Presented by Off the Grid, Saturday Nights at The Barn will feature a large array of food trucks, music, art, and beverages from Rye on the Road in conjunction with Drake’s Brewing Co. at Sacramento’s newest landmark destination. Follow them on Facebook for updates on each weeks events and food truck lineup!

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