Sacramento Parent September 2015

parent September 2015

Meet the 2015

COVER KID WINNER Afterschool Activities Guide Inside

GRAFFITI FOR KIDS? sacramentoparent.com

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SEPTEMBER 2015 sacramentoparent.com

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acher r Note From the Te Oh, No! Not Anothe at I was couldn’t believe wh I d an e, tim ce en er ading 30 er conf gan. He should be re It was parent/teach Lo r fo d ne er nc co said, “ I’m very s panicked. hearing. His teacher s per minute.” I wa rd wo 16 ly on ing ad t he is re in class and words per minute, bu was being disruptive he , at th ly on t no , and, know if it was a He was really behind side myself. I didn’t be s wa I l. ro nt co th him or struggled with self ed to be stricter wi ne I d Di . lem ob pr a learning e teacher regarding discipline problem or e the notes from th lik d ul wo I ew kn I more understanding? op. st Logan’s behavior to tration. Logan’s was a result of frus r vio ha be s hi ed inc nv s and not His teacher was co een how bright he wa tw be t ec nn co dis e d from th like b and d, and frustration stemme he confused letters ew kn I . rk wo ol scho work was always a being able to do the comprehension. Home ed ct pa im d an wn that slowed him do battle. issues as d some of the same ha n so r he at th ed with me therapy. I had Logan’s teacher shar Optometric for vision r te en ec Ey e th to n him covered his brain did Logan. She had take y Fuerst, and we dis nd Ra .

Dr by r te en me that 80% Logan tested at Eyec saw. Dr. Fuerst told he at wh tly ien fic tely or ef not process accura pathways. was on visual neuro of all Logan learned sn’t the fight rence. Homework wa fe dif ge hu a w sa I nths, e best part for me Over the next few mo scores on tests. Th er tt be me ho ing ing br behavior. it had been. He was her regarding Logan’s ac te e th om fr me notes ho was I wasn’t getting e first a difference from th t ha W . ain ag e tim er conference gan’s school It was parent/teach e improvements in Lo th t ou ab gh ou en y uldn’t sa r minute to 86 time. His teacher co ne from 16 words pe go d ha He r. vio ha be that was work and classroom ’t believe it! While dn ul co I ! te nu mi words per more settled and words per minute. 86 in my son. He was s ge an ch e th r fo thankful ellect and great, I was most nnect between his int co dis a er ng lo no focused. There was performance. !

He was on his way!

parent.

I am a very thankful

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on our cover

parent September 2015

Meet Layla. We first met her in April at our 2015 Cover Kid Search and she sure knew how to light up the room!

Our Cover Kid Search photographer, Michelle McDaid went out to her family home in Citrus Heights to capture a day in the life of shining star, Layla. (page 10)

CONNECTING FAMILIES FOR 23 YEARS

Photographer: Memories By Michelle Photography www.MbyMPhotos.com

contents SEPTEMBER 2015

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21

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departments

features

calendar

42 GO PLAY

10

Meet the Cover Kid Winner & Finalists

38 CALENDAR

How to Handle Bullying

39 SHOWS

Elk Grove Giant Pumpkin Festival

16 25 27 29

Graffiti Art for Kids How Swimming Helps in School Chlorine & Hair Care

Learning + Fun Spotlight on September Shows

40 EXHIBITS

Noteworthy Displays

special advertising section 31 21

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SEPTEMBER 2015 sacramentoparent.com

Communicating when Someone Can’t Hear

Afterschool Activities Guide

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dear readers Yes! It’s finally time to bring you the 2015 Sacramento Parent Cover Kid winner! Meet Layla. I’ve said it before, but I just can’t help sharing again how much I love this opportunity to meet local kiddos and their families! Be sure to turn to page 10 to get to know some of these local cuties and see just how tough the competition was this year!

publisher | SUE LETO COLE editor-in-chief | SHELLY BOKMAN editor | SHANNON SMITH art director | PATRICE VAN DAM, Studio PR administrative assistant | CHRISTINE QUARRY PHOTOGRAPHER

Memories by Michelle | Michelle McDaid www.MByMPhotos.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sherri Bergmann | Vee Cecil | Julie Eckhardt Michelle McDaid | Amy Motroni | Shannon Smith

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We hope back to school has been smooth sailing for your family so far. But unfortunately, bullying does exist and odds are that a few kids out there are not having such a stellar time at school. My daughter had a very controlling sixth grade friend when she was in fourth grade and luckily with open communication, the help of her teacher, the principal and a few parents—we were able to shut it down pretty quickly. But, I remember all too clearly seeing some of the signs on page 16.

If you’re ready to add afterschool activities back into the mix—this is your issue! Check out the afterschool activity guide for inspiration on page 31.

Cheers to a super September!

Raychell Sarcomo | (530) 889.6175 raychell@sacramentoparent.com

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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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“Layla has changed the family dynamic so much —in a good way—she is the truffula tree [The Lorax] in our woods.”

–Violet, Mom

10 SEPTEMBER 2015 sacramentoparent.com

Meet the Cover Cutie and a Few Favorites from the 2015 Cover Kid Search

Edited by Shannon Smith Photography by Memories by Michelle | www.MByMPhotos.com

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again—there’s no shortage of cute kids in our area!

I’m sure local photographers like Memories by Michelle’s, Michelle McDaid would agree. She met up with Layla and her family at their home in Citrus Heights to do this month’s cover photo shoot. They jumped, gathered up eggs, ate lunch, changed outfits a few times, played and laughed—a lot!

So, without further ado—it’s finally time to reveal our 2015 Cover Kid Winner, Layla!

Layla just turned 4 years-old last month. Mom, Violet read about the Cover Kid Search in Sacramento Parent (which she says she always picks up to plan activities with the kids).

A few of Layla’s favorite things: • Layla loves to dance and sing, and she also loves anything involving water. If it’s mischievous, she loves it—says mom, with a chuckle.

• Her favorite colors are pink and purple.

• No picky eater here! Layla likes just about all foods, but she LOVES bacon! If she hears the “crackle” of a bag, “Can I have some?” comes next. No food left behind!

• Layla’s super close with her big brother, Kaleb—he’s eight and they have a lot of fun together!

• She loves building forts, snuggling in tight to watch movies and to eat snacks, of course!

• Layla’s taking ballet and had her first ballet recital this summer, she was a kitty cat.

She also loves swimming and gymnastics (and from the photos we saw, looks like she gets pretty good air on her trampoline, too).

So, Layla rocked it—but, we couldn’t just bring you one. Here are some more stand out kiddos that made our list of top favorites from this year’s event!

sacramentoparent.com SEPTEMBER 2015 11

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MEET JACK, 17 MONTHS Jack’s mom heard about the Cover Kid Search through one of her crafting websites.

If Jack could have any superpower it would be the ability to fly (because, according to mom, he isn’t always the biggest fan of getting into his carseat).

His favorite color is blue. He loves doing anything that involves being outside, especially playing with his trucks! And his favorite food at the moment is Gerber Crunchies—any flavor, anywhere, anytime.

MEET WESLEY, 2 YEARS-OLD Wesley’s mom was at the event last year and we’re glad they came back!

If Wesley could have any superpower it would have to be hyper-speed—he loves to run!

His favorite color is orange and he loves baseball. When it comes to food, chicken with rice is at the top of his list.

MEET RIAN, 6 MONTHS If Rian could have any superpower it would be to fly (at least that’s what mom thinks she would probably tell her—if she could).

Her favorite color is aqua. She loves to laugh and smile, especially when you say “BOO.” Rian loves to eat peas—and well, she just loves to eat! She also likes to play with her bucket full of toys and to pull on her daddy’s beard.

MEET BRODY (LEFT) & BLAKE (RIGHT), 3 YEARS-OLD (IDENTICAL TWINS) If Brody could have any superpower it would be to be a good guy and fly high in the air to smoosh the bad guys. Blake, on the other hand—would like to be able to run super-fast so he could get to the park before Brody.

Brody’s favorite color is pinky pink! Blake likes Blakey Blue (also, his nickname).

Brody enjoys dressing up as a dinosaur and chasing his brother. And Blake likes playing “just a little rough” so he doesn’t always get hurt.

As for their favorite foods, Brody says it’s his Daddy’s “yum-yum-yummy to my tum-tum-tummy” hamburgers and Blake likes chicken nuggets and broccoli (the broccoli is for strong muscles, of course). sacramentoparent.com SEPTEMBER 2015 13

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MEET VIEN-ARJEL, 1 YEAR-OLD THIS MONTH (HAPPY BIRTHDAY!) Mom read about the Cover Kid Search in Sacramento Parent and Vien-arjel’s big sis was one of our finalists last year!

If she could choose any superpower it would probably be to transform herself to be as big as her sister and brother so she could run around everywhere with them.

Vien-arjel loves orange and yellow and playing with big sister (Ate) and big brother (Kuya).

She also likes vegetables.

MEET MATTHEW, 1 YEAR-OLD NEXT MONTH! (HAPPY ALMOST BIRTHDAY MATTHEW!) Matthew’s parents learned about the Cover Kid Search on Facebook!

As for his superpower wish Matthew would probably love to be able to fly—so he could go see his grandma in Oregon whenever he wants!

His favorite color is green (just like his mom) and he loves swimming! Matthew loves broccoli (yes, it’s his favorite— really)!

MEET ZIAIRE, 2 YEARS-OLD He already has a superpower—and that is his ability to make everyone smile. His mom says that he brings joy to any situation in life, even when someone is unhappy or sad at the moment. “When Ziaire comes around— people become joyful,” she shares.

A few of his favorites are the color red, playing basketball and he loves to eat chicken!

MEET MELROSE, 2 YEARS-OLD Mom read about the Cover Kid search in Sacramento Parent as she was flipping through the magazine at her doctor’s office. (We also remember Melrose from last year, too).

Her favorite colors are purple and turquoise and she loves to watch the cartoon, “Doc McStuffins.” She also enjoys playing outside and reading books. When it’s time to eat, her top picks are pizza and chicken.

sacramentoparent.com SEPTEMBER 2015 15

Signs your child is being bullied.

And what to do about it.

By Michelle McDaid School is back in session and for most children, it’s an exciting beginning to another year of learning and spending time with friends they may have lost contact with over the summer. But for some, returning to school is something they have been dreading since the day they left campus in June. These children are the victims of verbal or physical abuse by their peers, aka bullying. The last thing they want to do is return to a world where their self-worth is attacked daily and where many adults seem to turn a blind eye to what is often dismissed as a childhood right-of-passage: teasing.

SO WHEN IS IT HARMLESS TEASING AND WHEN IS IT BULLYING? Light-hearted teasing, an odd spat or disagreement, or the general politics of the playground are not bullying. According to the anti-bullying site StompOutBullying.org, bullying is an intentional, aggressive and repeated behavior that involves an imbalance of power or strength. It can take the form of physical aggression (hitting, punching, beating); verbal (teasing, name calling, threats); emotional (intimidation using gesture, social exclusion); and as we hear all too often these days, it can occur online (cyberbullying).

SO HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOUR CHILD IS BEING BULLIED? If you’re lucky, they will come home and tell you. If you start to hear the same names over-and-over again, you may have cause for concern. But often, children do not volunteer this information to adults. Bullying is often accompanied by feelings of shame or guilt in the victim, something which the bully plays upon, and they may also fear that saying anything—making a “big deal” about it—will only cause retaliation and escalation. This means that you, the parent, needs to be on top of it and pay attention.

10 warning signs your child may be a victim: (Adapted from www.StompOutBullying.org) 1. Your child returns home with torn, damaged, or missing pieces of clothing, books, or other belongings.

2. Has unexplained cuts, bruises, and scratches.

3. Has few, if any friends, with whom he/she spends time with.

4. Seems afraid of going to school, walking to and from school, or taking part in organized activities.

5. Finds or makes up excuses to avoid going to school.

6. Has lost interest in school work and/or grades begin to plummet.

7. Appears sad, moody, teary, or depressed when he/she comes home.

8. Complains frequently of headaches, stomachaches, or other physical ailments and loses appetite.

9. Has trouble sleeping or has frequent bad dreams.

10. Appears anxious and suffers from low self-esteem.

(It’s worth noting that these changes in your child’s well-being are also signs of other issues as well, so don’t just assume this means they’re being bullied.)

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WHAT TO DO IF YOU SUSPECT THEY ARE BEING BULLIED: 1. Talk to them about it. Find out what’s going on. Don’t just ask, “Are you being bullied?” because that will likely elicit a straight-out “no.” If they’re afraid to tell you about it voluntarily, interrogating them likely won’t help. Instead use a more subtle approach asking questions like, “Do you have any special friends at school this year?” or “Are there any kids at school who you really don’t like? Why? Do they ever pick on you or leave you out of things?”

2. Don’t’ overreact. We all have that guttural parental response when we suspect our child is being harmed. We want to fix it.

We want to confront the attacker(s). But often, this plays into our child’s fears of speaking to us about it. They’re afraid things will get worse if mom or dad get involved. Instead, assure them that this is not their fault, that they can talk to you about anything and that you will help them.

3. But do act… and quickly. While you shouldn’t jump to conclusions or be reactive in your response, you also don’t want to dismiss your child’s emotions, or worse, tell them to “toughen up.” This will only verify their worst fears: that they’re weak and this is all their fault. You need to also know and believe that it is not a flaw of character that causes others to victimize them.

One out of every four children is bullied and it can have serious effects on kids. According to a study by Yale University, children who are bullied are 7 to 9% more likely to consider suicide than other children. So, do start to take steps, immediately, to address the problem.

4. Approach your child’s school. Call or set-up an appointment to talk with their teacher. Don’t try to approach them when you drop your child off at school or are picking them up. Try to set-up an appointment when both of you have the time to talk undisturbed. Ask him/her about the relationships between your child and other peers in their school and what you can both do to address the situation. If you are not satisfied with the teacher’s response, next make an appointment to meet with your child’s guidance counselor or principal.

Before these appointments, it’s also a good idea to go online to the school or school district’s websites to research their policies around bullying and print them out. Un-

derstanding what the protocol is in your child’s school will help you have realistic expectations of teachers and staff, as well as take the role of leader in ensuring these steps are followed by them on behalf of your child.

5. Arm your child with self-help techniques. Let them know they shouldn’t be afraid to tell an adult. Telling isn’t tattling. Especially at school, teachers may not even know what’s going on because they don’t see the abuse taking place and your child is not reporting it to them. If they are especially afraid and feel like the adult in question isn’t doing anything to help, encourage them to tell another adult, and another until someone listens. Encourage them to stand up for themselves, safely. Let them know that NOBODY has the right to hurt them, under any circumstances or for any reason. Many bullies are cowards in the face of confrontation. Practice teaching your child to say things like, “What you’re doing is mean and wrong. STOP IT!” and then encourage them to walk away. This is very different than skulking off, afraid, and this will make your child feel much more empowered. Of course, don’t encourage them to bully back, it will only get them in trouble. The only time to fight back is in self-defense, if someone is physically hurting them.

6. Learn your rights and get educated. If working with the school is not working, go online and search for resources to help you and your child. Many non-profits include free templates for logging and reporting bullying activity like StompOutBullying.org’s Notice of Harassment Kit or Pacer.org’s Action-Plan Resources. Depending on your situation, involving law enforcement or seeking out the help of an attorney may all be viable next steps for your family. Check out the list of online resources at the end of this article for some great tips and tools.

7. Consider moving your child to another school as an absolute last resort. Many times the problem follows the child and with cyberbullying this is an ineffective strategy these days.

Most of all, don’t give up. continued on page 19

sacramentoparent.com SEPTEMBER 2015 17

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Bullying continued from page 17

Bullying can not only affect your child’s physical and emotional well-being, over time it can also have negative impacts on marriages and families. If you’re talking to teachers or other adults but not getting the help you need, it’s not only frustrating for you but scary for your child. This may be the first time that they have come to you with a problem and you have been unable to solve it. Depending on your child’s age, it may be appropriate to share your frustrations with them while letting them know that you won’t give up on finding a solution. Showing a little vulnerability will demonstrate to your child that it’s okay for them to do the same with you and strengthen your relationship during a difficult time.

Michelle McDaid is a local writer and photographer who was physically and verbally bullied through the majority of her school years and knows what it’s like to feel isolated and alone with parents who are rendered powerless by a system not set-up to help. Now she is passionate about promoting anti-bullying programs in local schools and giving parents better resources to help their children. You can reach her at michelle@mbymphotos.com.

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Resources for parents and children: www.Pacer.org/bullying/ (National Bullying Prevention Center) www.StopBullying.gov www.StompOutBullying.org www.NoBullying.com www.AntiBullying.net www.Facebook.com/BooBullyFoundation

sacramentoparent.com SEPTEMBER 2015 19

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Communication Tips when Someone Can’t Hear

By Sherri Bergmann

September is Deaf Awareness Month. You and your child can learn to communicate with one who can’t hear, and learn more about living in a silent world by becoming involved in their activities. While some things may seem a little obvious, if you’ve ever wondered how you should interact—here are tips on how to communicate, and the Do’s and Don’ts.

There are varying degrees of deafness: hard of hearing, “profoundly” deaf, and completely deaf. Those who are deaf/hard of hearing (DHOH) can wear hearing aids or cochlear implants, but some are unable to wear them or prefer not to. Some can lip read and understand you. Although some hearing impaired people can speak clearly, or well enough to be understood, many communicate with visual language (sign language) rather than with words.

If your child has a neighbor or classmate who is DHOH and would like to know him or her better, here are some tips to break the ice: • Attract their attention before you communicate. Make eye contact first and a friendly wave. Don’t wave your hand in front of their face, and don’t approach from behind them and tap on their shoulder. It may startle them.

name, and introduce yourself. Ask how they prefer to communicate. If you don’t know sign language and that is their preferred communication style, have them take the lead on how they want to communicate.

• When talking, stay in their field of vision and make sure your mouth is visible.

• Do not chew gum or eat while you talk.

• Talk facing the light. Shadows can distort your lip movements when they are trying to lip read.

• Greet them in your normal voice and tone. Whispering or shouting will distort your lip movements and can make it hard to follow your words. If you exaggerate your mouth movements, it is harder to understand than if you speak normally. They may feel embarrassed if others are watching you talk to them. If you increase your voice too much, it can produce negative effects by drawing attention from others and make them feel self-conscious.

• If they do not seem to be able to lip read, you can communicate by writing.

Keep a notepad and pen with you. Write your

• Keep your sentences short. Periodically check in a friendly way to see if they understand what you have said. Do not assume they understood because they are looking at you and nodding. Even the best lip readers can typically understand only about 30 to 40 percent of what you say. They guess the rest in relation to the topic.

• If they completely miss what you said, absolutely do not say: “Never mind, it wasn’t/isn’t important,” “We’re done talking about it, I’m tired of

repeating myself,” or “I’ll tell you later.”

When they see you are getting impatient, it makes them feel hurt, left out, unimportant, or they feel that it’s too much trouble to repeat what was said.

• Use gestures and visual cues only when necessary. Too many body movements may distract them or pull their eyes away from your mouth while you are talking.

Hold up fingers to indicate numbers, scribble in the air to show you’re writing a letter, frown when you say you are feeling sad, etc.

• Learn sign language. Sign language is a visual language with its own grammar and syntax. You can find books on American Sign Language and there are free online classes.

• If your child can text— texts, instant messages and emails are great ways to continue to communicate and keep in touch. The phone is not the ideal method to communicate. Even if they wear hearing aids or a cochlear implant that allows them to hear, the phone can distort sounds making it harder to hear and understand. Most hearing impaired people rely on lip reading when communicating. continued on page 23

sacramentoparent.com SEPTEMBER 2015 21

The earlier the treatment The better the outcome

Thousands of children are in need of a Foster Family.

Make a difference become a foster parent. Foster parents change lives.

Training and financial support provided.

For more information please call 916-967-6253 or visit www.paradiseoaks.com

special events Kick off September with these family-friendly special needs events and visit our calendar at www.SacramentoParent.com to find even more fun activities!

Have you Heard? www.SacramentoParent.com

2-29 SEPTEMBER STEPtember STEPtember is a month-long challenge that urges you to take 10,000 steps a day. Through team fundraising and friendly competition, this event empowers participants to improve their own health and well-being while advocating for individuals across a spectrum of disabilities that may not be able to step themselves. 10,000 Steps a Day. 28 Days. 1 Goal.

565-7700 | www.UPCSacto.org

2 SEPTEMBER Autism Play Night 5pm at Climbaroo, Sacramento Bring your socks every Wednesday from 5-8pm and join Climbaroo for a special play session.

Enjoy food, friends, and a special appearance from Joey the Kangaroo!

928-9766 | www.Climbaroo.com

3 SEPTEMBER Sensory Storytime 10:30am at Sylvan Oaks Library, Citrus Heights Join the library for a special storytime for kids with autism and/or sensory disorders featuring books, music, fidget toys, crafts and more! The presenter this month is the parent of a young man with autism and there will lots of time for parents to network with others. Noise and/or behaviors are never a problem at the library!

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

7 SEPTEMBER Autism Family Bounce Night 3:30pm at Bouncetown, Sacramento Join Bouncetown every first Monday of the month for Autism Bounce Night! Bounce your troubles away!

366-9999 | www.BounceTown.org 22 SEPTEMBER 2015 sacramentoparent.com

has a new fresh look!

Ready. Set. Go!

DHOH continued from page 21

Also with a hearing device, they cannot hear like a normal person, because it processes sound with different tones and pitches.

• If you invite a DHOH friend to play sports with you, let other players know he/she is hearing impaired. Introduce everyone clearly and casually. The hearing impaired child doesn’t like the spotlight on them—making them feel that they are “different.” If possible, before inviting your friend, it would be ideal to inform your teammates ahead of time regarding how to communicate clearly with your friend and how to make him/her feel included. If they express hesitancy on interacting with someone who cannot hear, stick up for your friend and point out positive aspects.

Emily Cressy, a soccer star who played for the University of Kansas, used her hearing aid and an interpreter to help her compete. On the field, she could see where everything was and considered it an advantage—because she couldn’t hear, she saw things others didn’t.

• When inviting a DHOH person swimming, remember hearing aids/cochlear implants cannot be worn in the water.

Lip reading and visual cues are the best way to communicate. Ball games, diving and just playing with pool toys and floaties will help ensure a good time and talking isn’t needed.

Here are a few ideas for those seeking programs that welcome hearing students to participate with their DHOH peers.

• The CCHAT Center in Rancho Cordova teaches DHOH children to talk, and allows hearing children to learn with their students, with a heavy emphasis on literacy skills. Space is limited. They offer summer camp and other activities year round. For more information and tuition rates call 916-361-7290. www.CCHATCenterSacramento.org • Some public schools have a DHOH program and enjoy having hearing students join in their classroom and encourage interaction. They can also learn the basics of sign language.

Check with your school district on how your child can participate. http://web.jhu.edu/disabilities/faculty/types_of_disabilities/deafness. html http://www.lifeprint.com/asl101/topics/deaf-and-the-sports-community. html

Your child can discover a whole new world by building a bridge to those who live in silence, increase their understanding of how others adapt, and can develop a rich and rewarding friendship.

Deaf MONTH september

Sherri Bergmann was born with a profound hearing loss; she cannot hear an alarm clock or a siren without a hearing aid. She is a freelance writer and full time graphic designer and lives in Cameron Park with her husband and two dogs (whom she suspects, know that she cannot hear).

sacramentoparent.com SEPTEMBER 2015 23

FEST IVAL CAPITOL MALL FREE

24 SEPTEMBER 2015 sacramentoparent.com

FARMTOFORK.COM

By Julie Eckhardt

Teaching kids about the art of graffiti? Yes, I thought I was out of my mind for a minute, too. But, art has always been an important part of my life—and so naturally, it’s been important for me to include art as a part of my children’s lives. My passion for wanting to surround them with people who are zealous about music or art has led to some unique opportunities. So, when my friend, Nick Mesche agreed to come to my home to share his perspective and talent as a graffiti artist, I just couldn’t pass it up.

I knew it was going to be great to have Nick come share his inspiration for color and design with my kids and their friends. What I didn’t realize, was that we would all be blown away! This little graffiti class with the neighborhood kids was a huge hit! Nick (who had never officially done a class like this before) naturally grabbed attention, was inspiring and gave the kids some new skills to be proud of.

First, he talked about the history of graffiti and showed the kids different types of art that can be produced with spray paint. Then he shared his portfolio and the kids were in awe. He also stressed the importance of only painting where your parents allow it, and he talked about the legality of it all.

When it came time to paint, Nick did a demonstration of different techniques with spray paint and instructed the kids on holding the can at the right distance and how to move it with the right amount of speed. He guided each child in the direction they wanted to go with their art piece in a gentle and encouraging way.

The class was a huge success and it was both kid and parent approved. The response was great and the experience was one the kids will never forget. Sometimes those unique and out of the box opportunities are just what kids need. Nick’s class helped build self confidence in my son as an artist. Plus, hosting such an inspirational person at our house and sharing that experience with friends was pretty rewarding, too.

FARM

Nick is a father of two, you can see his work on Instagram @nlapala. He has done pieces at the Auburn Skate Park, Bills Wheels in Santa Cruz, and various businesses throughout Northern California.

Julie is a mom, artist and wife that lives in Auburn with her husband and her two creative boys.

sacramentoparent.com SEPTEMBER 2015 25

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ATTENTION Parents of Advanced Students When public school is considering teaching their "gifted" or "advanced" kids math at grade level (instead of one grade level accelerated) per Common Core, El Rancho School wants you to know, you have a choice in your child’s education.

• Credentialed Teachers

A Tradition in Excellence Since 1961

• Distraction-Free Learning



• Average Class Size: 12 Students

“One of the best things about El Rancho is that they teach to the student's ability and are open to grade acceleration. Our gifted kids are our future leaders and we cannot deny them.” – Current Parent

• Ability Groupings to Individualize Instruction • Character Training Supports Your Family Values • Music, Art, Spanish, P.E.

Average “SAT 10”Reading Scores Top 9% in the Nation

www.ElRanchoSchool.com (916) 482.8656 | 5636 El Camino Ave., Carmichael, CA 95608 26 SEPTEMBER 2015 sacramentoparent.com

“Thank you to El Rancho for being open and an advocate for gifted students. This has helped our son tremendously.”

– Current Parent

Splash into Swim Lessons After School

By Amy Motroni Body movement is great for stimulating a child’s mind and body. Yes, reading and homework are important, too—but you might want to consider an afterschool activity that offers bilateral movements, like swimming.

You may be surprised, but even though your child is out of the classroom—they are still in a learning environment when they’re in the pool.

BILATERAL MOVEMENTS Your child’s brain develops through bilateral cross patterning movements such as swimming.

Bilateral cross patterning is using both sides of the body together to carry out an action.

The practice of using both the right and left sides of the body together is important for activities such as: writing, cutting, and most academic and gross motor activities. The more cross patterning movements that are made, the more nerve fibers develop in that part of the brain.

Movements such as kicking and paddling and swimming breaststroke improve the coordination of the right and left hemispheres and help in language development and academic learning.

READING The cross patterning movements of the freestyle stroke helps develop hand-eye coordination and visual perception which helps develop reading skills. Diving also helps reading skills by practicing eye movements and tracking control.

One of the first skills learned in swim lessons is to swim to the wall. Not only is this an important life-saving skill, it also helps develop fine motor skills that aid in learning how to write.

LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT Research has shown that swimming helps with intellectual skills, like counting and following instructions. Your swimmer can make a connection between language and action sometimes even before they are able to verbally communicate.

When swimmers hear instructions such as “kick, kick, kick” they link the instruction to language and it furthers their comprehension.

Back floating is another life-saving skill swimmers are taught. Back floating also helps in developing spatial awareness. Good spatial awareness is crucial for math skills, visual perception, and language skills.

There are so many benefits to swim lessons. Not only are your children learning life-saving skills, their brains are being developed increasingly!

Here‘s how swim lessons help prepare your child for the classroom: • Bilateral movements are made which help develop language, reading, and writing skills • Movement patterns in swimming accelerate brain development • Mid-line crossover movements help develop fine motor skills needed for handwriting • Hearing instructions helps with patterns of language for speech development and refinement • Diving helps develop visual perception for reading, writing, and spelling skills • Various motions help develop eye movement control and eye tracking which aids in reading skills

Don’t think that because summer is over, swim lessons have passed. Swim lessons are a great afterschool activity that will help your child in and out of the classroom.

Amy Motroni is the Marketing and Branding Manager for Sea Otter Swim Lessons in Loomis. She is passionate about children and adults learning swim skills and water safety at any age. She has her bachelor degree in Journalism from Sacramento State.

Photo courtesy of Sea Otter Swin Lessons sacramentoparent.com SEPTEMBER 2015 27

ScholarShare Children’s Book Festival September 26 & 27 • 10AM - 4PM FREE ADMISSION Author & Illustrator Presentations Storytelling Performances Hands-on Literacy Activities & more!

Featuring Laura Numeroff, bestselling author of If You Give a Mouse a Cookie and more!

PLUS: MELISSA ABRA MOVITZ JEN BARTON JANAY BROW N-WOOD JANET ANN CO LLINS KATE DAVID ERIN DEALEY ANDY DOMEK SAMMY GINN I STEPHEN GR EEN TIM McCANNA MUSICAL RO BOT MICHAEL SLAC K

Thank you to our sponsors Hall’s Window Center

Adults must be accompanied by children, and children must be accompanied by adults.

3901 Land Park Drive, Sacramento · fairytaletown.org · (916) 808-7462 28 SEPTEMBER 2015 sacramentoparent.com

Tips to Protect Hair from Chlorine

By Vee Cecil Just because summer is over and the kids are back in school doesn’t mean the good times at the pool have to come to an end. Swimming is a great year-round activity for kids and parents, and there are many options in the Sacramento area for families who want to keep swimming as temperatures get colder.

However, if you are going to make swimming a regular part of your kids’ routine, it’s important to know how all of those hours in the pool could affect them. Specifically, over exposure to the chemically treated water could harm your child’s hair.

Here are a few ways you can keep your kids’ hair healthy while they swim: Condition first. When you put conditioner on your kids’ hair before they jump in, it provides a barrier that blocks pool chemicals from doing damage.

Wet hair. DailyMakeover.com explains that because hair is porous having your kids wet their hair in the shower before they get in the pool can help block chlorine from getting into their hair because it will already be saturated.

Wear a swim cap. Of course, if you’re really worried about your child’s hair a swim cap is always an option. You’ll want the cap to be tight enough to keep out as

much water as possible, but not too tight as that it can also be damaging to hair.

Clarifying shampoo. As UrbanBushBabes.com notes, clarifying shampoos can “remove deep-down dirt and build up,” but they should only be used once or twice a month.

Use vinegar. If all that time in the water does start to turn your child’s hair green, not to worry. It is fairly easy to wash out that green tint. An article from the Wall Street Journal offers some options. One is vinegar. Because it is acidic, it will “lower the pH” and remove the copper oxides

that are causing that green tint. Other options include tomato juice and lemon juice. All it takes is about half a cup poured over your child’s hair. Then, give them a shampoo wash to get rid of that vinegar smell.

Don’t let bad hair days ruin your fun at the pool. Protect their hair and you can be sure their time splashing around won’t have any lasting damage.

Vee Cecil is a wellness coach, personal trainer, and bootcamp instructor.She is passionate about studying wellness and sharing her findings through her blog, www.mynewwell.com.

Now Enrolling for Fall

Small class sizes!

Big Successes!

Individualized Core Curriculum Emphasis in the Arts and Sciences CAPITAL INNOVATIONS ACADEMY A Private School for 6th-12th Graders www.SacArtsEducation.com (530) 400-7619 sacramentoparent.com SEPTEMBER 2015 29

Annual Harvest Faire Located in Fair Oaks on 22 acres

Saturday, November 17 10:00am to 4:00pm • Craft booths • Delicious food

Preschool & Kindergarten Open House

• Children’s activities • Music performances

Saturday, November 17 10:30am to 2:00pm For children ages 3 years to 6 years old.

• Puppet Shows • Story time • Children’s activities • Tours of the classrooms • Meet the teachers • Visit our working 5-acre organic farm RSVP required, admissions@sacwaldorf.org

3750 Bannister Road Fair Oaks, CA 95628, www.sacwaldorf.org

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30 SEPTEMBER 2015 sacramentoparent.com

2015 After School Activities Listing Action Day Learning Center

Extra Innings

Orangevale | 916-988-9633 | 916-988-9689 Folsom | 916-985-0976

Rocklin | 916-253-3593

Our after school program offers supervised fun and structure. We provide transportation to and from school, homework club and physical activities. www.ActionDayLearningCenter.com

Brookfield School Sacramento | 916-442-1255

Offerring an exciting variety of activities before/after school: Ballroom Dance, Karate, Cheerleading, Chess School, Yoga, Computer Programming. Fun “no-cut” after school sports program that includes golf, tennis, wrestling, & swimming! www.BrookfieldSchool.org

California Museum Sacramento | 916-654-1729

Specializing in history, arts and culture programs aligned with State Content Standards for teachers, parents and K-12 students.

For more information, visit CaliforniaMusuem.org/education. www.CaliforniaMuseum.org

Capital Innovations Academy Sacramento | 530-400-7619

A 6th-12th grade Private School with small class sizes (10 students/teacher max.), individualized core curriculum, and special interest courses in the Arts & Sciences. www.SacArtsEducation.com

Child Development Centers (CDI/CDC) Multiple Locations | 916-286-7865

We provide licensed preschool and before and after school programs on elementary school campuses. Engaging your child and enriching both their personal and educational growth is at the heart of CDI/CDC. www.CDICDC.org

El Rancho School Carmichael | 916-482-8656

Preschool-8th grade gated school specializing in a well-rounded literacy based education that includes phonics, writing, math, sciences, the arts + all the extras, Spanish, music, PE, swimming, technology, study hall, and summer camps. www.ElRanchoSchool.com

Explorit Science Center Davis | 530-756-0191

State-of-the-art, year round, air conditioned indoor training facility offering lessons, clinics, batting stations, camps and much more. www.ExtraInnings-Rocklin.com

Fairytale Town Sacramento | 916-808-7462

Let your child’s imagination run wild at Fairytale Town, a 2.5-acre children’s park with play sets based on favorite fairytales and nursery rhymes, farm animals and gardens. Open year-round. www.FairytaleTown.org

Fast Track Hobbies Rocklin | 916-784-1722

Slot car race party: An extreme racing rush for all speed enthusiasts! An exciting past time that comes from the time before video games and bounce houses. Action-packed excitement for all ages. www.FTHobbies.com

Funderland Amusement Park Sacramento | 916-456-0131

Sacramento’s only children’s amusement park featuring 9 child sized rides. The after school special’s back in September & October with 1/2 priced wristbands after 3pm. www.FunderlandPark.com

Granite Bay Montessori Roseville | 916-791-7849

GBM offers fun and exciting after school enrichment classes such as robotics, theater, music, art, sports, and more. Most classes are included in school tuition. www.GBMontessori.com

Hawkins School of Performing Arts Folsom | 916-355-1900

Professional Instruction in ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, contemporary, hip hop, musical theater dance, acrobatics, acting and voice. Ages 3 and up; beginning to advanced. www.HawkinsSchool.com

K1 Speed Sacramento | 916-368-7223

K1 Speed is the ultimate kart racing experience. Open 7 days a week with professional racing karts reaching 45 MPH and offers racing experiences for all. www.K1Speed.com

Hands on Exploration Gallery focusing on investigating water and Nano Technology after school on Wed. 1 to 5 and Friday 3 to 6. www.Explorit.org

sacramentoparent.com SEPTEMBER 2015 31

Ottomon Elementary is the only school in the region to offer the Leonard Bernstein Center’s Artful Learning model.

Students learn core academic subjects through the study and use of art, music, theater and dance every day with engaged and caring teachers!

We are convienently located in northeast Sacramento County, near Roseville and Folsom.

9460 Ottomon Way, Orangevale (916) 986-2228 • www.sanjuan.edu/parentmag 32 SEPTEMBER 2015 sacramentoparent.com

2015 After School Activities Listing Keeping Pace Learning Center and Reading Clinic

Sacramento Theatre Company

Elk Grove | 916-686-1619

Sacramento | 916-446-7501x116

When smart kids struggle in school there is a reason. At Keeping Pace Learning we directly address the causes of the learning difficulty and implement interventions to SOLVE the problem. www.KeepingPaceLearningCenter.com

Kids Camp Child Care, Party and Family Fun Center 916-358-5276

Folsom/El Dorado Hills/Roseville/Citrus Heights/Elk Grove Drop in Hourly Child Care, ages 6 weeks-12 yrs. Days, Evenings and Weekends. Now Open Kid’s Camp Party & Family Fun; Bounce, Laser, Arcade, Parties. www.KidsCampFamilies.com

Little Folks University Folsom | 916-985-7055

Excite your Little Folk with fun after school activities, experiments, cooking, art exploration and more! Transportation to and from local schools, homework assistance, & camps provided. www.LittleFolksU.com

Ottoman Elementary, An Artful Learning School Orangevale | 916-986-2228

Ottomon offers several opportunities for after-school learning, including the Bridges After-School program - which provides homework, enrichment and pro-social recreation - and once-aweek Kidz Art and MAD Science programs. www.SanJuan.edu/ParentMag

Rio Valley Charter School’s Arts Guild Sacramento | 844-368-4934

RVCS Arts Guild is the perfect option for students busy with “after school” commitments, wanting flexibility and access to performing arts experts and arts-integrated academics. www.RioValleyArtsGuild.org

Sacramento Public Library Sacramento | 916-264-2920

Stimulate imaginations! Expand horizons! Free, fun-filled activities/programs, including books and ebooks for every interest, Storytimes, Homework Help and more at the Library’s 28 locations. www.SacLibrary.org

Sylvan Learning of Rocklin Rocklin | 916-797-9878

Choose Sylvan to give your child that edge. Discover how Sylvan works for families — from our personal approach, to our interactive learning, to our amazing results. www.SylvanLearning.com

Sacramento Theatre Company is the home to several Education Programs. STC’s Young Professionals Conservatory, Pre-professional Ensemble, School Partnership Program, ACT * DANCE * SING Camp. www.SacTheatre.org

The Bounce Spot Sacramento | 916-371-2386

The Bounce Spot, Sacramento’s Super Party Center, offers: The Best Birthday Parties, Smart, Fit & Healthy Kids Afterschool Program, and Fun & Fitness Camps. www.TheBounceSpot.com

The Pumpkin Farm Citrus Heights | 916-726-1137

Come visit The Pumpkin Farm of Citrus Heights. Attractions for the whole family! Booking school tours, birthday parties, and group functions. Opens Friday Oct 2nd Tuesday - Sunday in October. www.PumpkinFarm.net

The Sacramento Ballet Nutcracker 2015 Auditions Sacramento | 916-552-5800

Auditions for the children’s cast of The Sacramento Ballet’s 2015 production THE NUTCRACKER will be held over three days: September 9, 12 and 13, 2015. Children must be 6 years old by December 1, 2015 to participate. www.SacBallet.org/auditions

TRICKS Gymnastics, Dance & Swim Granite Bay | 916-791-4496 Folsom | 916-351-0024 Sacramento | 916-481-4496

TRICKS is the perfect place for kids! They learn that hard work can also be fun! GYMNASTICS • DANCE • SWIM (Ages 2-17) www.TricksGym.com

Wonder-Land Christian Preschool Carmichael | 916-481-1798

Wonder-Land Christian Preschool is where kids learn as they play.

We have top quality teachers who will nurture your child in a safe, clean school. Come in for a tour! www.Wonder-LandSchool.com

YMCA of Superior California Multiple Locations, Sacramento-region | 916-452-9622

America’s leader in Youth Development, helps children achieve more with nurturing, affordable programs from preschool and after-school enrichment to youth sports and so much more. www.YMCASuperiorCal.org

sacramentoparent.com SEPTEMBER 2015 33

OPEN 7 DAY S!

OR FUN F E! ON EVERY

The Pumpkin Farm Harvest & Halloween Fun for the Whole Family

Slot Car Racing Fun!

Open October 2nd - 31st 9am-6pm (Closed Mondays)

• Bounce House • Go-Kart Train Rides • Hayrides & Train Rides • Farm Zoo • Tower & Slide • Haunted Barn • Corn Maze • Hay Pyramid • Weekend Snack Bar • Large Pumpkins, Indian Corn & Gourds

$25 OFF YOUR BIRTHDAY PARTY! BRING IN THIS COUPON TO REDEEM May not be combined with any other offer. Expires on 10/1/2015

916.784.1722

www.FTHobbies.com 6831 Lonetree Blvd / E102 / Rocklin / CA / 95765

Schedule Your School Tours Today!

FREE Parking First Two Weekends & All Weekdays

Exploration Gallery Our World in Water

New-Nano Technology

$5 Parking CELEBRATE YOUR BIRTHDAY AT

Only on the 3rd & 4th Weekend

Serving the Sacramento Area for 41 Years!

(916) 726-1137 www.PumpkinFarm.net 7736 Old Auburn Road, Citrus Heights Four different party packages available.

Choose our popular “HOME RUN” party and enjoy a game of whiffleball! All packages come equipped with batting time, party attendant, private table in our spacious party area, invitations, pizza, soda, paper goods, and a whole lot of fun!

www.extrainnings-rocklin.com 4283 Duluth Ave | Rocklin, CA 95765 (916) 253-3593

34 SEPTEMBER 2015 sacramentoparent.com

Public Hours Wednesday 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.

Friday 3:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.

3141 5th Street, Davis, CA (530) 756.0191

www.explorit.org

calendar

! r e b m e t p e S

It's all about activities and getting back into the school year routine this month! Create, learn, study, build and play as the temperatures cool off and schedules heat up!

We recommend confirming events before you go. All phone numbers are area code (916) unless otherwise noted. See our full calendar listings at www.sacramentoparent.com

1 TUESDAY Artful Tot 10:30am at Crocker Art Museum, Sacramento Every month, toddlers explore art-making with different materials in new ways, from printmaking and color mixing to clay and fabric. Adults learn how to encourage experimentation and self-expression while nurturing their child’s creativity. Free for Museum members and free with general admission for nonmembers.

808-1182 | www.CrockerArtMuseum.org Homework Zone 3:30pm at N.Highlands-Antelope Library, Antelope Drop-in homework help for school-age and high school students is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30-5:30pm. Volunteer homework coaches will be available to assist students in grades K-12 with homework assignments.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org Homework Zone 3:30pm at Valley Hi-North Laguna Library, Sacramento Get drop-in homework help for school-age students on Tuesdays from 3:30-5:30pm.

Volunteer homework coaches will be available to help students in grades K-12 with homework assignments.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org Kids Crafternoon: Artistic Bookmarks 3:30pm at Colonial Heights Library, Sacramento Meet after school for crafting at the library!

Create your own personalized bookmarks with an artistic twist.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

2 WEDNESDAY Homework Zone 3:30pm at Martin Luther King Jr. Library, Sacramento The library Homework Coach will offer free homework assistance to students grades 1-8 on Wednesdays from 3:30pm-5:30pm 264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org Gold Rush Days (9/4-9/7) 11am in Old Town Sacramento This unique Sacramento heritage event features a wide variety of crowd-favorite entertainment.

The wildly fun and free heritage celebration offers a variety of family-friendly special activities

that take place throughout the historic district to help visitors experience what life was like in the 1850s. www.SacramentoGoldRushDays.com SacAnime (9/4-9/6) 8am at the Sacramento Convention Center SacAnime is the show where “Fans come to play.” Enjoy a fun, safe, family friendly event with top shelf entertainment at a reasonable price. www.SacAnime.com

5 SATURDAY Brazilian Independence Day Sacramento Street Festival 2015 4pm at MARRS Building, Sacramento Brazilian Independence Day Sacramento Street Festival is the first festival in Sacramento celebrating the beautiful culture of Brazil! The family-friendly festival is a spectacular demonstration of diverse Brazilian folkloric arts and music performances.

588-5463 | www.TabCat.org Chalk It Up Festival 10am at Fremont Park, Sacramento For 25 years Chalk It Up has hosted the free chalk-art and music festival, inviting artists to get out and create. The resulting 25 years have been nothing short of magical, not to mention great support for local youth arts. Each year the festival raises money at the event and gives it back to local youth by way of grants.

213-5059 | www.ChalkItUp.org River Run for Youth 8:30am at Raley Field, West Sacramento The River Run is a benefit for the Collings Teen Center in West Sacramento. The Capital Road Race Management timed-run will help provide resource for the Center to offer free after school programs for middle school and high school students.

375-0681 | www.RiverRunforYouth.com Scavenger Hunt—Science Saturday 10am at Placer Nature Center, Auburn How good are you at seek and find? Challenge yourself to the Placer Nature Center’s scavenger hunt. Can you find a lichen or mud nest? Can you follow clues? Fun for the whole family! Fee: $3 per person (non-members) Free for PNC members.

878-6053 | www.PlacerNatureCenter.org

Walk in the Wild 10:30am at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael Learn some tips for spotting wildlife on this guided walk in the Nature Area. Donations gratefully accepted. There is a $5 per car entrance fee into Ancil Hoffman County Park (Free to members.)

489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net WIPEOUT Run Sacramento 7:30am at Cal Expo, Sacramento Ever watched Wipeout and thought you could do it better? Prove yourself! From the producers of the hit TV show Wipeout comes the ultimate bucket list adventure; WIPEOUT Run will be taking over Sacramento. Crash, smash, and splash your way through a 5K course featuring larger-than-life obstacles and elements inspired by the hit TV show WIPEOUT. 263-3000 | www.WipeOutRun.com/ Sacramento

6 SUNDAY Critter Close-up 1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael Get eye to eye with one of the Effie Yeaw Nature Center’s furry or feathered residents. Donations gratefully accepted. There is a $5 per car entrance fee into Ancil Hoffman County Park (Free to members.)

489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net

7 MONDAY Free Family Festival: Little Buckaroos Day 11am at Crocker Art Museum, Sacramento Families with young children will have a yeehaw time at this 5th annual celebration of Gold Rush Days. Giddy up and head over to the Crocker for live performances, craft-making demos, and art activities for the whole family.

808-1182 | www.CrockerArtMuseum.org

8 TUESDAY Kids Crafternoon: Printmaking 3:30pm at Colonial Heights Library, Sacramento Meet in the library after school for some crafting! This week they’ll be experimenting with printmaking. Get creative using all kinds of unique materials to create one-of-a-kind prints.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org sacramentoparent.com SEPTEMBER 2015 35

calendar Teen Space 3:30pm at Belle Cooledge Library, Sacramento School is back in session and that means TeenSpace is open for you! Grab your friends, run to the library and try a variety of fun activities!

A light snack will be provided. TeenSpace is intended for teens ages 12 to 18.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

9 WEDNESDAY Science Wizard 3pm at Walnut Grove Library Be amazed by the Science Wizard. A Jim Dixon Memorial Nature Series program.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org Teens Make: DIY Notebooks 4pm at Colonial Heights Library, Sacramento Need a new journal or notebook? Create your own personalized version at Teens Make. Select the size, paper, color and design and use for all your life’s noteworthy moments.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

10 THURSDAY Gold Country Fair (9/10-9/13) 4pm at the Gold Country Fairgrounds, Auburn The Gold Country Fair takes place during the first week of September every year in the beautiful Gold Country Fairgrounds in Auburn, CA. The event is a 53 year old tradition, is 4 days long and is jam-packed full of family activities everyone can enjoy!

530-823-4533 | www.GoldCountryFair.com Kids’ Snacks Program by the Food Literacy Center 3:30pm at Rancho Cordova Library The Food Literacy Center will teach kids to prepare a healthy snack they get to eat! Second Thursday every month. Free program for school age children ages 6 to 18 years old.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org Kirk Waller 3:30pm at Belle Cooledge Library, Sacramento A blend of musicality, mime and emotion. The stories of Kirk Waller will entertain and engage crowds of all ages! Let yourself travel far and away! This event is designed for families of all ages.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

11 FRIDAY Folsom Just Between Friends Children’s & Maternity Consignment Event (9/11-9/13) 10am at Folsom Sports Complex Over 300 local families selling their gently used children’s clothing, toys, books, shoes, baby equipment, outdoor toys, room décor and more! Friday 10am-6pm, Saturday 9am-3pm & 6:30pm-8:30pm & Sunday 9am-2pm. www.Folsom.jbfSale.com

12 SATURDAY An Evening with Dr. Peter Gray 6:30am at Fairytale Town, Sacramento Hear from play expert and author Dr. Peter Gray on the importance of childhood play and 36 SEPTEMBER 2015 sacramentoparent.com

the effects of its dramatic decline. This talk will take place on the outdoor Mother Goose Stage.

Chairs, blankets, picnic dinners and snacks are welcome. The Dish & Spoon Café will be open.

808-7462 | www.FairytaleTown.org Art Blast 10:30am at Crocker Art Museum, Sacramento Each month a different work of art provides the inspiration for a memorable art-making activity for families with children ages 7 to 12. Families are welcome to drop in any time during the program. Free for Museum members and free with general admission for nonmembers.

808-1182 | www.CrockerArtMuseum.org Clothing & Gear Swap—A Back 2 School Event 10am behind Free Flow Academy, Rocklin It’s a BACK 2 SCHOOL ADVENTURE! Drop off at 10am with vendor shopping and prizes to WIN. Swap will begin around 11am. Check the website for more info and updates! www.PeaceLoveSwap.com Compass Walk 10:30am at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael Join docent Jennifer Kerr for a guided map and compass walk. We will learn how to use a compass with a map, take bearings and find our way around the trails. Space is limited to 20 participants. Donations gratefully accepted. There is a $5 per car entrance fee into Ancil Hoffman County Park (Free to members.)

489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net Free Photo Scanning Day! 11am at Folsom Zoo Sanctuary For victims of fire, floods, tornadoes and other natural disasters, family photos are the worst things to lose. Save your photos day is an initiative created to help families prepare BEFORE disaster strikes. Photo organization and up to 25 photos scanned, per family. Please RSVP. 747-9236 | http://goo.gl/J0Qjc8 Sacramento Play Summit 9am at Tsakopoulos Library Galleria, Sacramento Play is the most important work of childhood.

The third annual Sacramento Play Summit, presented by Fairytale Town, the Sacramento Public Library and ScholarShare Speaks, aims to highlight the importance of play, the many types of play, ways to incorporate play into daily life, and more.

808-7462 | www.FairytaleTown.org St. Anthony Parish Annual Fall Festival 12pm at St. Anthony Parish Church, Sacramento This event will have international food booths from cuisines of the world. There will also be fun and games for the entire family including: carnival style games, 50/50, bingo, cake spin, a country store, pull tabs, wine spin, books, and more. You don’t want to miss the live entertainment and raffle prizes as well.

428-5678 | www.StAnthony-Sacramento.org

13 SUNDAY Grandparents Day 9am at Fairytale Town, Sacramento Enjoy a day of play for the whole family on National Grandparents Day at Fairytale Town. On this special occasion, Fairytale Town offers free admission to grandparents when accompanied with a child ages 0-12. Family fun in the sun for everyone!

808-7462 | www.FairytaleTown.org Toad, Frog, Polliwog!

1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael Get a close look at these secretive creatures as you learn all about incredible double lives.

Donations gratefully accepted. There is a $5 per car entrance fee into Ancil Hoffman County Park (Free to members.)

489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net

15 TUESDAY Kids Crafternoon: Recycled Rockets 3:30pm at Colonial Heights Library, Sacramento Meet at the library after school for some crafting! This week they’ll be using recycled materials to craft rocket ships. Find out where your creativity takes you with this space exploration-themed crafternoon.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org Storytime on the Run! 11am at Central Library, Sacramento Storytime leaves the library and heads to Zapata Park! Go on an adventure to the park or meet in the shade to read books, sing songs and have fun!

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org Teen Space 3:30pm at Belle Cooledge Library, Sacramento School is back in session and that means TeenSpace is open for you! Grab your friends, run to the library and try a variety of fun activities!

A light snack will be provided. TeenSpace is intended for teens ages 12 to 18.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

16 WEDNESDAY Kids’ Chess Club 4pm at Rancho Cordova Library Here’s a chance for school-age chess players of all skill levels to play against each other free. Beginning chess lessons provided. Challengers and visitors are welcome to gather around watch and learn from games in progress.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org Sing Along with Mister Cooper 4pm at Belle Cooledge Library, Sacramento Join neighborhood favorite Mr. Cooper for 30 minutes of music time and freeze dancing for ages 3 to 7 years.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

17 THURSDAY Circus Xtreme: Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus 11am at Sleep Train Arena, Sacramento A 140-year tradition that combines classics like; extraordinary animal performances, captivating

clown escapades, daring high-wire acts with contemporary surprises and thrills to make the circus experience memorably unique.

928-0000 | www.SleepTrainArena.com

18 FRIDAY Minecraft for Kids 6pm at Arden-Dimick Library, Sacramento Stay after the library closes to play Minecraft with other kids! Registration is required (Parents may stay in the library during the program.

Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult.) School Age 6-12.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org Teen Space 3:00pm at Belle Cooledge Library, Sacramento School is back in session and that means TeenSpace is open for you! Grab your friends, run to the library and try a variety of fun activities!

A light snack will be provided. TeenSpace is intended for teens ages 12 to 18.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

19 SATURDAY 10th Annual Fair Oaks Chicken Festival 10am at Fair Oaks Village Join the Fair Oaks Recreation and Park District for the 10th Annual Fair Oaks Chicken Festival.

Festivities include: live music on the main stage, more than 100 quality vendors, a food court, kids’ park, a Cluck n’ Crow contest, craft brew tasting, breakfast, and much more.

966-1036 | www.FairOaksPark.org ABC Nature Rovers—Our Day Outside 10am at Placer Nature Center, Auburn The letters of the alphabet are hidden in nature.

Can we find them? We will rove around the nature center like alphabet detectives. Program is geared toward children ages 0-5. Bring a lunch if you would like to stay after the program and enjoy a picnic! Please register.

530-878-6053 | www.PlacerNatureCenter.org Birding for Families 10:30am at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael Bring the family out for a birding and nature walk led by a Naturalist and special guest guides from the Sacramento Audubon Society.

Birdwatchers of all levels welcomed. Donations are gratefully accepted. There is a $5 per car entrance fee into Ancil Hoffman County Park (Free to members.)

489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net Firefighter Invitational Chili Cook-Off 12pm at Safetyville USA , Sacramento While the main event of the day is the chili competition, there is also plenty of fun to be had. There will be interactive activities & demonstrations for the whole family, raffles, entertainment, and of course chili tasting.

366-7233 | www.SafetyCenter.org GearUp Cycle for Youth 6am at West Sacramento City Hall Join West Sacramento Mayor Christopher Cabaldon and Sacramento City Council Member Jay Schenirer for a bike ride to benefit

2015 NUTCRACKER AUDITIONS! SEPTEMBER 9, 12 & 13 2015 Must be 6 years of age by Dec. 1st For more information visit: www.sacballet.org/auditions

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calendar at-risk youth programs. The ride begins at West Sacramento’s City Hall and ends at Chavez Park in Sacramento. Be sure to stick around for a family-friendly craft event at the Crocker Art Museum.

808-7005 | www.GearUpforYouth.org Spaghetti Feed and Carnival 5pm at Project R.I.D.E. Arena, Elk Grove This is the most fun your family can have in a horse barn. Carnival games for the kiddos inside horse stalls, piles of pasta, live music performances, DJ dancing, a bar for Mom and Dad, and fabulous goodies to win in two raffles and a silent auction will all be at this event.

685-7433 | www.ProjectRide.org Women’s Day Vendor Fair 11am at Crowne Plaza Hotel, Sacramento Northeast The Women’s Day Vendor Fair provides women the opportunity to see the latest products and services, new items, available resources, and shop all things women related. Features: Fashion, clothing, accessories, beauty, hair, make-up, household items, children’s stuff, health and wellness products, fitness and self-improvement.

866-931-8505 | www.WomensExpoCa.com

20 SUNDAY Eureka!

1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael Get your hands on a pan and catch gold fever!

Learn about some of the local Gold Rush history as you pan for gold like the pioneers.

Donations gratefully accepted. There is a $5 per car entrance fee into Ancil Hoffman County Park (Free to members.)

489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net Project BeYOUtiful 8:30am at Arden Fair Mall, Sacramento Arden Fair presents Project BeYOUtiful. This event is a place to gather with your girlfriends and be you. The fun will include a morning of yoga and fitness, breakfast, mimosas, great prizes, giveaways, a vendor expo, and more. FOX40 News anchor Stefanie Cruz will host this event.

920-4809 | www.ArdenFair.com

22 TUESDAY Kids Crafternoon: Watercolors 3:25pm at Colonial Heights Library, Sacramento Meet at the library after school for some crafting! This week they’ll be playing with color for watercolor painting. Create your next masterpiece!

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

23 WEDNESDAY Teens Make: Mini Accessories 4pm at Colonial Heights Library, Sacramento Does anyone remember Shrinky Dinks? Turn this nostalgic craft into some contemporary (and cute) rings and other accessories at this week’s Teens Make. Follow templates or think up your own to make accessories unique to you.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org 38 SEPTEMBER 2015 sacramentoparent.com

24 THURSDAY LEGO Challenge 4pm at N.Highlands-Antelope Library, Sacramento Join us for a creative and fun hour of building things with LEGOs. Parent and teen volunteers are welcome. Free admission.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

25 FRIDAY Roseville Just Between Friends Children’s & Maternity Consignment Event (9/25-9/27) 11am at Jackson Sports Academy, Sacramento Over 300 local families selling their gently used children’s clothing, toys, books, shoes, baby equipment, outdoor toys, room décor and more! Friday 11am - 6pm, Saturday 9am-1pm & 5pm-8pm & Sunday 9am-1pm. http://www.Roseville.jbfSale.com Teen Space 3:00pm at Belle Cooledge Library, Sacramento School is back in session and that means TeenSpace is open for you! Grab your friends, run to the library and try a variety of fun activities!

A light snack will be provided. TeenSpace is intended for teens ages 12 to 18.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

26 SATURDAY Celebrate Batman Day 1pm at Carmichael Library Calling all Batman fans. It’s time to celebrate Batman Day with a movie and more!

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org Mega Family Carnival 11am at Southpointe Center Park Area, Sacramento The Mega Family Carnival is a celebration of the best products, services, and entertainment for families. The Carnival will include sections for infancy, parties, entertainment, household items, family resources, a vendor marketplace, and a family talent showcase. Entertainment at the carnival includes bounce houses, face painters, a magician, family fun, and more.

271-2351 | www.MegaFamilyCarnival.com Movie Night in the Park 7pm at Washington Park, Sacramento District 4 hosts another movie night in the park.

This time they will be playing “Ghostbusters,” so come out and have fun. There will be free popcorn, juice, and water.

808-7340 | www.CityofSacramento.org Pirate Party 2pm at South Natomas Library, Sacramento Avast me hearties! In honor of Talk Like a Pirate Day the library is having a pirate party! Get your pirate name, learn some pirate lingo, make your own spyglass, treasure map and maybe even walk away with some loot!

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org Plants with Purpose 10:30am at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael Come walk with a Naturalist through nature’s garden. Learn plant identification and adapta-

tions. Donations gratefully accepted. There is a $5 per car entrance fee into Ancil Hoffman County Park (Free to members.)

489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net ScholarShare Children’s Book Festival 10am at Fairytale Town, Sacramento Join Fairytale Town for the 15th annual ScholarShare Children’s Book Festival, the largest early childhood literacy event in the Sacramento region. Enjoy back-to-back readings and presentations from authors and illustrators on the Mother Goose Stage, then shop at theTime Tested Books booth, to purchase your favorite story.

808-5233 | www.FairytaleTown.org

27 SUNDAY Sketch It 11am at Crocker Art Museum, Sacramento Visitors ages 5 and older can sketch at their own pace while receiving drawing instruction.

This drop-in program meets in a different gallery each month. No experience necessary, and all supplies are provided. Free for Museum members and free with general admission for nonmembers.

808-1182 | www.CrockerArtMuseum.org The Great Auburn Obstacle Race 9am at Regional Park, Auburn This race is a 5k fun-run and features a myriad of obstacles, including (but not limited to) a maze, tire run, pond crossing in a raft, wall climbs, weighted-sled pull, a creek crossing, over and under, and of course a mud pit.

530-885-8461 | www.AuburnRec.com Wasps with Gall!

1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael Explore the mysteries of galls and take a walk in the Nature Area. Donations gratefully accepted.

There is a $5 per car entrance fee into Ancil Hoffman County Park (Free to members.)

489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net

29 TUESDAY Mr. Cooper’s Sing-a-Long Club 11am at Robbie Waters Pocket-Greenhaven Library, Sacramento A family-friendly performance by local singer/ guitarist Mr. Ken Cooper. This program is made possible by the Pocket-Greenhaven Friends of the Library.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

30 WEDNESDAY Homework Zone 4pm at Southgate Community Library, Sacramento Drop-in homework help for school-age and high school students is available on Wednesdays from 4:00-5:30pm. Volunteer homework coaches will be available to assist students in grades K-12 with homework assignments.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

calendar/shows

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

2015 Nutcracker Auditions

September 9, 12 and 13 at Sacramento Ballet, Sacramento Must be 6 years of age by December 1st. For more information visit their website. www.SacBallet.org/auditions

Three Days of Rain

Through September 12 at Big Idea Theatre, Sacramento Perpetual drifter, Walker Janeway reappears after a year’s absence to join his sister at the reading of their father Ned’s will, expecting to inherit the famed house he designed with his business partner. But when the house is left to a childhood friend instead, the apparent betrayal sparks a series of revelations.

960-3036 | www.BigIdeaTheatre.org

The NeverEnding Story

Through September 20 at Sutter Street Theatre, Folsom Told with all the thrills of a classic adventure, the story begins with Bastian, a lonely boy, who stumbles into a curious bookshop where he discovers a book, “The Neverending Story.” Bastian hides in the attic of his school and begins to read, and a huge adventure surges to life.

353-1001 | www.SutterStreetTheatre.com

Sound of Music Sing-a-Long

September 6 at Crest Theatre, Sacramento Having started in the UK back in 1999, the show has now become a worldwide hit! Sing-a-Long to the “Sound of Music” is a screening of the classic Julie Andrews film in full-screen technicolor, complete with subtitles so that the whole audience can sing along! Then of course there is the famous fancy-dress competition in which everyone who has come in costume is invited onto the stage to show off their fantastic costumes.

476-3356 | www.CrestSacramento.com

Broadway Re-Viewed

September 11-27 at Fair Oaks Veterans Memorial Amphitheatre The Best of Broadway is making a repeat engagement in the Veterans Memorial Amphitheatre with a whole new show this year. This popular musical revue features “a tuneful romp through the Great Broadway Songbook.”

966-3683 | www.FairOaksTheatreFestival.com

Seussical, the Musical

September 11-October 4 at Davis Musical Theatre Company Follow the adventures of Horton, an elephant who one day hears voices coming from a speck of dust, and he soon discovers that within this tiny speck exists the smallest planet in the universe!

Ridiculed by the other animals in the Jungle of Nool for believing in something he cannot see, Horton stubbornly persists in his belief that the Whos exist.

530-756-3682 | www.DMTC.org

The Imaginary Invalid

September 16-20 at Sacramento Theatre Company Hypochondriac Argan wants nothing more than to be sick (or at least to be thought of as sick) and tended to by doctors and family (notably his scheming wife). His desire for treatment outweighs his judgment as he tries to marry his daughter to an idiot doctor-in-training.

446-7501 | www.SacTheatre.org

The National Acrobats & Circus of the People’s Republic of China

September 18-20 at Harris Center for the Arts, Folsom The National Circus and Acrobats of the People’s Republic of China are one of the longest running and most distinguished circus troupes in China.

Colorfully costumed acrobats and contortionists defy gravity with impressive circus and acrobatic acts, such as solo trapeze, aerial silk, diving through rings, feet juggling with umbrellas, unicycles, adagio of four, grand martial arts, and more.

608-6888 | www.HarrisCenter.net

sacramentoparent.com SEPTEMBER 2015 39

calendar/exhibits

All phone numbers are area code (916) unless otherwise noted Go with the Flow Exhibition September 1-26 at Sacramento Fine Arts Center, Carmichael Watercolor Artists of Sacramento Horizons, Inc. (WASH, Inc.) presents the very best of regional watercolor. This exhibition will be judged by Michael Reardon.

971-3713 | www.SacFineArts.org

Photo Courtesy of Sacramento Fine Arts Center, Go With the Flow, “Did Someone Say Carrot?” by Ronnie Rector

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Sponsored By: Kohls Cares Volunteers, Sacramento CU, 13/CW31, Capitol City European, Sierra Select Distributers, UMPQUA Bank

Safetyville Pumpkin Patch Opens Oct. 1st & Don’t miss Halloween Haunt, Oct. 17th

TICKETS AVAILABLE ONLINE AT SafetyCenter.org or call 916-438-3351 for more info

I Art Through October 3 at Blueline Arts, Roseville In the spirit of David Hockney’s recent foray into iPad paintings, artists were asked to create artwork on their i-devices through the use of various programs and techniques.

783-4117 | www.BluelineArts.org Northern California Landscapes Exhibit Through September 9 at Kennedy Gallery Art Center, Sacramento This exhibit will feature paintings of the simple beauty of Northern California from the coast to the valleys.

716-7050 | www.KennedyGallery.net Pigskin Peanuts September 12-January 3 at California Museum, Sacramento Featuring the iconic “Fall Classic”—Lucy pulling the ball away from Charlie Brown as he runs up to kick it, “Pigskin Peanuts” is a traveling exhibit from the Charles M. Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa chronicling the enduring cultural legacy of the world’s most popular comic strip through a display of over 50 football-themed strips and ephemera in celebration of its 65th anniversary on October 2, 2015.

653-7524 | www.CaliforniaMuseum.org Rain Forest Visions: Amazonian Ceramics from Ecuador September 19-February 14 at Crocker Art Museum, Sacramento The Canelos Quichua-speaking people of eastern Ecuador make the finest traditional ceramics to be found in Amazonian South America. This exhibition, featuring 100 works from the Melza and Ted Barr Collection, is one of the first of its kind in an art museum.

808-1182 | www.CrockerArtMuseum.org

Photo courtesy of Crocker Art Museum, Art by ESTHELA DAGUA

40 SEPTEMBER 2015 sacramentoparent.com

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Fall for Pumpkins!

If you haven’t been to the Elk Grove Giant Pumpkin Festival we think you just may be missing out on one of the biggest fall festivals in the region. Occurring each year the first weekend in October, it started as a small harvest celebration in 1994 and is now Elk Grove’s largest family festival, attracting about 45,000 guests.

Some of California’s heftiest pumpkins will weigh off at the festival. In fact, it is the current World Record holder of the average Top 10 Giant Pumpkins. The festival has something for everyone with attractions including the Elk Grove World Pumpkin Pie Eating Championship, pumpkin derby, pumpkin recipe contest, scarecrow-making contest, kids’ zone, live entertainment, an art walk, and a race across the lake between giant pumpkin boats!

The Elk Grove Giant Pumpkin Festival is hosted by the Cosumnes Community Services District (CSD) Parks and Recreation Department in partnership with many sponsors. Admission is FREE. Parking inside the park is $10. A portion of festival proceeds benefit local youth and service organizations.

We hope to see you out there—so come say hello to the Sac Parent team and pick up a copy of the October issue!

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