Sacramento Parent October 2016

parent October 2016

APPLES, JACKS and

Fostering Teenagers

HALLOWEEN FUN!

Tutoring Tricks & Treats sacramentoparent.com

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on our cover

parent October 2016

Sisters, Makena (age 10) and Kiki (age 9) are 17 months apart, but often get mistaken for twins. They are best friends with their own unique personalities that set them apart.

CONNECTING FAMILIES FOR 24 YEARS

photographer: Jill Lendahl Photography www.JillLendahl.com

contents OCTOBER 2016

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departments 11 FUN FINDS

Tutoring Tricks + Treats

19 CRAFTY

DIY Tombstones

41 GO PLAY

New Sacramento Adventure

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features 13 Halloween BOOks 15 Teen Gamers 22 Annual Guide to Haunts & Harvests

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Fostering Teens

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around town 33 CALENDAR Fall Fun

38 SHOWS Spectacular Showcase

39 EXHIBITS Dashing Displays

Playground

44 STORY TIME

Winnie & Mannie

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Special Events to Fall For

special advertising section 12 Tutors to the Rescue 30 Foster Care Resources

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Halloween is kind of a big deal at the Smith house. We usually play a movie out in front, bring out the fire pit and invite all the neighbors to hang out as we create a one-stop buffet table of candy for neighborhood trick-or-treaters.

My girls have been mulling over costume ideas for months and I’m still not sure who they’ll be dressing up as. So far, it’s been Flo from Progressive and a Monarch Butterfly, but I suspect that will change about thirteen more times before Halloween.

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

JILL LENDAHL, JillLendahl.com

contributing photographer: Jill Lendahl Photography | www.Jill Lendahl.com contributing writers: Robert Andrews | Brittany Fuller | Christine Quarry Shannon Smith | Michelle M. Swaby | Diana Watkins

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES

Raychell Sarcomo | (530) 889.6175 raychell@sacramentoparent.com Lindsay Trenz | (530) 889.6178 lindsay@sacramentoparent.com

Recently, Party City sent me over this year’s top costume trends and it looks like the Pokémon Go phenomenon will result in lots of Pokémon characters getting into the spirit of the holiday.

While this month’s issue is loaded with our area’s finest fall festivities, don’t miss the insightful article on teen gamers. Speaking of teens, there’s a huge need for foster parents in this age group, too.

Make October memorable, it shouldn’t be tough considering the oodles of fun events in Sacramento and beyond this month!

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Shannon

BILLING QUESTIONS

Shelly Bokman | (530) 889.6187 shelly@sacramentoparent.com

& the Sac Parent Team

Deanna Fox 916-220-9994

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FAMILY PUBLISHING, INC. Sacramento Parent Magazine Subscription Rate: one year, $30 457 Grass Valley Highway, Suite 5 Auburn, CA 95603 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. Sacramento Parent magazine welcomes letters, articles, artwork and photos from our readers.

Sacramento Parent is not responsible for the return of unsolicited materials. All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without written permission.

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

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fun finds

Tutoring Tricks & Treats

By Shannon Smith

WIN IT!

Learning is sweet! These finds will have your kiddos eager to put those brains to work at home, too! (Enter to win these, and more at SacramentoParent.com.)

Study & Play Desk (Preschool) It’s compact, colorful and super easy to assemble!

A perfect match for your budding preschooler with a large writing surface, book and storage spaces on both sides, special compartments for markers crayons and other art supplies—it offers a complete and compact space for study and play. It’s 22” high and the comfortable stool makes it just the right fit for the littlest students. www.AmericanPlasticToys.com Think & Learn Code-a-pillar (3-6 years-old) A caterpillar that encourages experimentation while developing coding, sequencing and critical thinking skills. Preschoolers can arrange Code-a-pillar’s easyto-connect segments in endless combinations to send Code-a-pillar on his path: forward, left, right, or even wait a couple of seconds before moving again. Kids can configure the segments in such a way that the Code-a-pillar can reach targets they set up throughout the room. When kids connect the segments to make Code-a-pillar move—that’s sequencing! When they figure out a sequence that will create a path for Codea-pillar to reach a target, that’s programming (and problem solving, too)! It’s all coding—and it’s all fun! www.Fisher-Price.com/en_US/brands/think-andlearn/products/Think-and-Learn-Code-a-pillar Trivial Pursuit®, World of Harry Potter™ (Tweens) Ace reading quizzes with a trivia game that reinforces everything kids love in this popular book series for tweens! This quick play Trivial Pursuit® game can be played on the go with its portable wedge holder. The 600 questions range in difficulty levels so even the expert wizards will be challenged! Trivia categories include: The Dark Arts, Hogwarts™, Magical Spells & Potions and more! www.WhatOnEarthCatalog.com A Good Breakfast (Everyone) Kick off the fall season by incorporating all the yummy foods in harvest for a healthy seasonal breakfast!

A good breakfast to fuel the body and mind is always a great way to start the day! Sprouts Market has a seasonal breakfast round-up of delicious fall favorites.

From pumpkin flax granola, maple pumpkin butter and pumpkin spiced apple cider, and more—your little Einstein’s will be ready to take on a busy day of learning and fun! Win a Sprouts Farmers Market Breakfast Basket at the Sacramento Parent Booth at the Elk Grove Pumpkin Festival on October 1st. www.SproutsBrand.com xtra sacramentoparent.com OCTOBER 2016 11

Tutors to the Rescue: Your local guide for homework help A Brighter Child 722-2228 | Fair Oaks

A large selection of books and educational supplies for parents, teachers and homeschoolers. Visit the website to browse fall classes for students in grades K-12.

www.ABrighterChild.com Academy Learning Center 426-2656 | Sacramento

Traditional one-on-one tutoring with qualified, experienced tutors, Study and Organizational Skills sessions, Test Prep, and an innovative “After School Advancement” program for students seeking an academic edge.

www.AcademyLearningCenters.com Club Z! Tutoring 999-1995 | Greater Sacramento Area In-home tutoring for everything from pre-K through pre-Med and our highly qualified, screened, and background checked tutors are hand selected for your child.

www.ClubZsacramento.com Mathnasium 967-6222 | See website for a location near you

The Math Learning Center where math makes sense. Kids will love the personalized curriculum and one-on-one instruction. Call to find out how convenient and affordable your child’s soaring self-confidence can be!

www.Mathnasium.com Total Education Solutions 877-TES-IDEA | See website for a location near you

TES provides innovative, quality educational services to individuals with exceptional needs. In homes, communities, schools, clinics, and online, we foster opportunities for success.

www.TESidea.com The Tutoring Center 771-4100 | Roseville

Intense One-to-One Instruction and “The Rotational Approach to Learning™” provides your child with longterm skills that will last a lifetime.

www.Roseville.TutoringCenter.com

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halloween BOOks! Here are some spooky seasonal reads courtesy of Penguin Young Readers! This list includes a spell-binding variety; from picture books featuring (friendly) witches and monsters to supernatural middle-grade books, and engrossing YA mysteries. Want to win one?

Head over to our WinIt! page at www.SacramentoParent.com.

AGES 3 TO 8 “Goblin Hood” by Sue Fliess, Piper Thibodeau • Grades K and Under | $3.99 This rhyming story follows a cast of spooky characters perfect for the Halloween season. Goblin Hood and the gremlins of Scarewood Forest are working to prepare the candy for Halloween.

One day, a witch decides that she wants all the candy for herself. It’s up to Goblin Hood to stop the evil witch, get back the candy, and make sure that everyone gets tricks and treats!

“Seven Orange Pumpkins” by Stephen Savage • Preschool and Under | $6.99 A pumpkin is snatched away by a graveyard mummy. Another is swept away by a stealthy owl.

With each turn of the page, there is a fun, unexpected (and a little spooky) way in which one of seven pumpkins disappears—until there’s just one.

“The Hide-and-Seek Ghost #8” by Dori Hillestad Butler, Aurore Damant Grades 1 to 3 | $14.99 Edgar Award Winner, Dori Hillestad Butler gives us the eighth title in her not-too-scary chapter book mystery series, “The Haunted Library.” Kaz are Claire are called on for another case! A family thinks their house is haunted, making it difficult for them to sell it. Will Kaz and Claire be able to figure out what’s going on, and find more of Kaz’s family members along the way?

AGES 8 TO 12 “Nightfall” by Jake Halpern, Peter Kujawinski • Grades 5 and Up | $8.99 On Marin’s island, morning doesn’t come every twenty-four hours: it comes every twenty-eight years. Every evening, her town sets sail for the south to wait out the long Night, though none of the adults will tell Marin, Kana, and their friend Line why. When the three are accidentally left behind in the gathering dusk, they come to understand the truth.

“The Last Kids on Earth and the Zombie Parade” by Max Brallier, Douglas Holgat Grades 3 to 7 | $13.99 Living in a tree house with your three best friends after the monster apocalypse hits town is pretty awesome. That’s how thirteen-year-old Jack Sullivan feels. But when zombies start mysteriously disappearing, Jack and his friends suspect that an extremely evil force is at work.

“Max Helsing and the Thirteenth Curse” by Curtis Jobling • Grades 5 and Up | $8.99 A hilarious and action-packed new series from the author of “Wereworld!” Max is just your average bike-riding twleve-year-old boy growing up in Gallows Hill, a suburb of Boston. Well, except that he lives in a gothic mansion, his pet dog is a hellhound, and his after-school job is carrying on the monster-hunting tradition of his family—the Van Helsings.

“Mischief Season” by John Bemelmans Marciano, Sophie Blackall• Grades 2 to 5 | $13.99 An intriguing new series introduces the legendary witches of Benevento and the five children who conspire to outwit them. Benevento, a town in southern Italy, is famous for its witches, who are not broomstick-riding hags but a variety of supernatural beings. Among them are the Janara, who fly about on stormy nights performing mischief; the Clopper, an old witch who chases children through the streets of town; and the Manalonga, who hide in wells and under bridges.

AGES 12 AND UP “The Appearance of Annie van Sinderen” by Katherine Howe • Grades 7 And Up | $10.99 Aspiring young filmmaker Wes Auckerman has just arrived in NYC to start his summer term at NYU. While shooting a séance at a psychic’s in the East Village, he meets a mysterious, intoxicatingly beautiful girl named Annie. She’s fashionable, dry, and hilarious, and yet a little bit distant and sad. But there’s also something different about her.

See more at Edelweiss.AboveTheTreeline.com. sacramentoparent.com OCTOBER 2016 13

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“Not Now Mom, I’m in Combat!”

Teens Have a Hard Time Turning Off Video Games, Even After Midnight

By Robert Andrews “I know I probably shouldn’t stay up until 2:00am on school nights,” reports Gilberto, a 16 year-old high school junior in my biology class. “It’s just that, I’m really into my PlayStation. The competition is pretty intense and my friends are counting on me. It’s really fun, and once the adrenaline gets pumping, it’s hard to quit. You get caught up in it and lose track of time.”

Teens making unwise decisions is not exactly headline news. Over the last decade or so, however, my fellow teachers and I have noticed a trend: more and more students are chronically sleepy, moody, and inattentive. When questioned, many of them give the same explanation as Gilberto—they are hooked on video games and often play them late into the night.

Our gamers are not just drowsy in class; sometimes they are fast asleep. When awake, they are often testy and unfocused—and they are overwhelmingly boys.

As online games have become more immersive and compelling, more young people have become drawn to them. As Gilberto explains, peer pressure also plays a role, “I know I spend too much time on PlayStation.

What can I say, I like soccer and volleyball, but this is way more fun. My friends and me, we’re all into it. We help each other out. It’s more exciting than watching a movie or anything like that.”

For many, the role-playing and competition becomes the focus of their lives. Playing until 1:00, 2:00, 3:00 in the morning—with friends and online competitors from around the world—becomes a higher priority than sleep.

What is it about video games that make them so compelling to young people? Certainly advancing technology has resulted in more engaging games.

A study published in the March 2016 issue of Sleep Medicine identified several factors that contribute to teenagers’ gaming addictions: • Gamers often find themselves in a state of “flow”—a “positive state of intense immersion in an activity” in which the player is “flowing from one moment to the next… in control of his actions, and in which there is little distinction between self and environment, between stimulus and response, between past, present, and future.” In Gilberto’s words, “you get caught up in it and lose track of time.”

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• Support by credentialed teachers • On-site enrichment and art classes • Individual education plans • Field trips • Social activities • Hybrid homeschool options also available

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Gaming continued from page 15

• Lack of parental control. A recent study showed that most parents “rarely” or “never” limit their children’s use of electronics.

• Access. 72% of U.S. adolescents have access to an electronic device in their bedroom, most commonly a laptop or tablet.

• Lack of maturity, increased risk-taking, and failure to understand the negative consequences of risk-taking (these are practically part of the definition of adolescence).

• Biology plays a role too. Teenagers’ brains are actually programmed to keep later hours. The problem is, the rest of the world doesn’t run on the same schedule.

Recent research in sleep science reveals that teenagers, especially boys, have a biological preference for “eveningness”—staying up later after dark, before becoming sleepy.

The brain releases a sleep-inducing hormone, melatonin, soon after dark. However, the release of melatonin occurs later at night for teenagers than for younger children and adults. This “eveningness” trait may have had an evolutionary advantage for humans. Individuals with the trait tend to be more extroverted and novelty-seeking, enabling them to find more sexual partners and therefore being more successful in passing on their genes to the next generation.

For teenagers in today’s world, however, staying up later after dark means that they will be less rested when the alarm clock wakes them for school the next day. The result is daytime sleepiness, moodiness, behavior issues, and lower achievement at school.

I asked Gilberto what time he typically quit the games and went to bed. “Usually around 1:30 or 2:00am, most of us call it quits. The thing is, your brain is still fired up from all the excitement and the competition. You can’t just go right to sleep, you have to wind down for a while. Maybe get something to eat, watch some Netflix, that kind of thing.”

Research has shed some light on this phenomenon as well. Gaming causes the brain to become revved up—neurons are stimulated and electrical activity increases.

Competition causes the “fight or flight” response—the body tenses, the adrenal gland secretes cortisol (a stress hormone), heart rate increases. The stimulating, daylight-like bluish glow from computer screens delays the release of melatonin, the “sleepiness hormone.” If you’re impaling dragons or vaporizing space-bots until 2:00am, you can’t just shut off the computer and fall asleep by 2:05. It takes some time for the body to shift into sleep mode.

Finally, there is the question of how late-night gaming affects the quality of sleep. A 2015 study published in the Journal of Sleep Research found that heavy gamers have an increased risk of poor sleep quality and insomnia. It seems that gamers may not be as well rested as non-gamers who get the same amount of sleep. And, as numerous studies have shown, adequate sleep is closely tied to achievement in school.

G A M E

Parents of late-night gamers are the first line of defense to help ensure that their children get adequate sleep.

Some steps that parents can take are: Explain the negative effects of latenight gaming and sleep deprivation to your teenagers Join the movement towards “electronics-free bedrooms” Set limits on electronics use.

Curfews are never an easy sell, but they are as important for late-night gaming as they are for socializing.

Urge your school to adopt a later start time, to accommodate the natural sleep/wake cycles of adolescents. Many schools have reported improvements in student achievement and health as a result of a later start time.

Install software that changes the nature of light emitted by computer screens at night. Apple’s Flux app for Mac and Night Shift for iPhone are examples. These apps cause computer screens to produce more warm yellow (rather than bluish) light at night. This decreases brain stimulation and enables more melatonin production before bed, which promotes a good night’s sleep.

As they say, you have to choose your battles, especially as the parent of an adolescent. Take it from a high school teacher; your child’s success in school depends on them being well-rested. It may not be as much fun as zapping intergalactic invaders, but it’s a battle worth fighting.

O V E R

Robert Andrews was a science teacher for 11 years for the Los Angeles Unified School District and is currently in an out-of-classroom position with the district. He is the parent of three daughters who are now thankfully past their teens. In addition to teaching, he has written for the Los Angeles Times, Ventura County Star, Technical Communication magazine, and other journals.

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DIY Creepy Tombstones

By Lady DIY

I’ve always been a fan of decorating my house for Halloween, but a few years back, my boys started complaining that our house wasn’t “creepy enough.”

Apparently, my “Happy Harvest” pumpkins and scarecrows weren’t getting them into the Halloween spirit.

I have a few neighbors who go all out and create amazing haunted houses every year. While I love to walk by and check out their set-ups, there is no way I could sleep at night if I had their ghoulish decorations at my house.

So, I set out on a mission to find Halloween decorations that would satisfy their desire for an eerie house, but ones that weren’t ‘keep me awake at night’ scary. I decided I could live with turning our yard into a creepy, yet not-too-scary graveyard with a few tombstones. When I started looking at store-bought tombstones, I realized that they were small, cheap and flimsy or outrageously expensive. I knew there had to be a DIY solution and there is.

Materials: (all materials were purchased at my local Lowes):

• Foam Board Insulation ($20) – A sheet is 4’ x 8’ (2” thick), and you can get at least 4 tombstones from it

• 1 Quart Exterior Paint in grey ($10) – I used Olympic brand “Victorian Pewter,” flat finish

• Sample-size exterior paint in black ($.99 on sale!) – I used Valspar brand “Lincoln Cottage Black,” flat finish

• Optional: Foam Adhesive ($5) – I used Loctite Power Grab Panel & Foam | Optional: Rebar

Tools:

• Sharpie marker

• Art or X-ACTO knife

• Small craft paintbrush

• 2” foam brush

• Serrated knife

Directions: 1. Decide on the shape and size of your tombstone, as well as the epitaph. Two helpful internet searches: “tombstone images” and “Halloween tombstone sayings.” For this project, my finished tombstone measures 14” wide and 22” tall.

2. Use the Sharpie marker to draw the outline of your tombstone on the foam board.

3. Using the serrated knife, cut out your tombstone. (This part is MESSY! Make sure you do this step in a location where you don’t mind a lot of Styrofoam “snow.”)

4. There will be plastic on both sides of the foam—peel this off now.

3.

5. Use a word processing application on your computer to create a template for your epitaph. Keep in mind the overall shape and size of your tombstone while creating your template—think about how the words are going to fit on the tombstone. (Helpful tip: pick a font that has simple lines, this will make it much easier to cut out!). I made my letters about 3” tall.

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Land of Snow Experience Day

Drop & Shop Event Saturday, December 3rd, 2016 • 1pm-5pm

Drop off your kids for tons of fun!

• Learn a dance with Clara • Do crafts with Elsa • Play games with Anna • Read stories with the Sugar Plum Fairy

$30 per child ($5 off all kids after first)

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Tombstones continued from page 19

6.

7.

6. Place your template on your tombstone. Use tacks to hold the paper in place. (Any small holes will be filled in later with paint.)

7. Cut out the letters. Using the art knife, cut through the template and into the foam. Using a short sawing motion with the knife held at a 45 degree angle, cut the letters out.

Your finished letters will have a “V” angle.

8.

9.

8. Now we’re ready to paint! Use the small craft paintbrush and the black paint to fill in all of the letters. Don’t worry if you color outside the lines—that will be covered later with the grey paint. Let dry.

9. Using the foam brush, paint the rest of the tombstone grey. I find it’s easier to paint the sides first, and then do the smooth front and back. Helpful tip: use a “dabbing” motion to do the cut sides—a regular back-and-forth painting motion tends to loosen little bits of the foam. The dabbing motion helps to keep them in place! (Another helpful tip: paint all sides of the tombstone including the bottom.) This will also prevent bits of foam from coming off your finished tombstone.

You now have a finished tombstone! A few optional steps: • Create a base for your tombstone by gluing a rectangular piece of foam to the bottom of your tombstone. Make sure to use glue that is made for foam.

• Make your tombstone look old and weathered using watered-down black paint.

• If you want to place your tombstones on the lawn, use rebar to keep them firmly in place. Simply hammer the rebar into the lawn and then push the tombstones onto the rebar.

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

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2016 October Guide to Hallo This Harvest Guide has you co APPLES & JACKS

Pickin’ at “Apple Hill” Farms Open now! Ranches located northeast of Placerville Apple Hill is open all year long but everyone’s favorite season just started! Fall has been the most popular time of year for Apple Hill ranches for over 50+ years! It’s when the air is filled with the wonderful smell of apple pies and folks are loading boxes of juicy apples into their cars. This time of year, take a stab at finding your perfect jack-o-lantern at some of the area’s finest pumpkin farms, too! www.AppleHill.com Amador Flower Farm Pumpkin Patch October 1–31, 22001 Shenandoah School Rd, Plymouth, 9am-4pm A day trip to this beautiful flower farm will have you surrounded in pumpkins and corn mazes.

Visit the farm animals and take a free tram ride tour every weekend (weather permitting).

209-245-6660 | www.AmadorFlowerFarm.com Bastiao Farms Goblin Gardens Pumpkin Patch October 1–31, 3845 El Centro Road, Sacramento, 10am-7pm Goblin Gardens Pumpkin Patch is a Halloween pumpkin patch that will provide a delightful fright for the entire family! Enjoy antiques, hayrides, hay bale pyramids, haunted train rides, 4 different types of maze’s and much more. Visit the western town but be careful not to end up in the old town jail. Some attractions closed on weekdays.

916-925-2496 www.BastiaoFarmsGoblinGardens.com Bishop’s Pumpkin Farm Now-November 1, 1415 Pumpkin Lane, Wheatland, 9am-6pm There are so many fun things to do at Bishop’s, you’ll definitely need a map! Not just your traditional pumpkin patch, here you can go on train rides, pony rides and hay rides. Cheer for your favorite squeeler at the pig races, hide at “Fort Alotafun” or relax by the pond. There’s so much more, we could fill the page!

530-633-2568 | www.BishopsPumpkinFarm.com Bobby Dazzler’s Pumpkin Patch & Milo Maze Open October 1-31, 23300 County Road 99D, Davis, times vary Enjoy acres of pumpkins, ride a cow train, work up an appetite in the milo maze and then head to the

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picnic area. This pumpkin patch has so much to offer including a petting zoo, face painting, pony cart rides, horse rides, hay pyramids & more. www.YourPumpkins.com Branco Farms and the “Biggest Little Pumpkin Patch” Open October 8-31, at The Fountains, Roseville, times vary Head over to The Fountains in Roseville for the Biggest Little Pumpkin Patch, just minutes from your backyard! Pick your favorite pumpkin plus so much more! Follow them on Facebook for updates on scheduled events and activities this harvest season! www.Facebook.com/BrancoPumpkinPatch Cool Patch Pumpkin Farm Now-November 1, 6585 Milk Farm Rd., Dixon, 9am-8pm This pumpkin patch is large and in charge.

Try your hand at over 60 acres of corn maze.

Once, a Guinness Record, this pumpkin patch has something for everyone. There are over 50 different kinds of pumpkins and gourds as well as a fun zone for the whole family including, kiddie mazes, trikes and pedal cars and a massive straw mountain.

530-746-8725 | www.CoolPatchPumpkins.com Fog Willow Farms October 1-31, 11011 Cecatra Drive, Wilton, times vary Nestled along the banks of the sleepy Cosumnes River lies this beautiful 9 acre farm. At Fog Willow Farms, you and your family/friends can experience all of the fun and excitement of the old farm in the country. Fog Willow is a friendly, safe, exciting “Edu-Tainment” farm where you can celebrate all that is agriculture, all that is family and all that is fun, plus pumpkin after pumpkin!

916-687-4547 | www.FogWillowFarms.com Poppy Lane Christmas Tree Farm & Pumpkin Patch October 1-31, 12110 Poppy Lane, Auburn, 9am-7pm Pumpkins, haystacks and gigantic bounce houses set the mood for family fun and a harvest to remember. A great place to find that perfect jack-o-lantern!

530-906-6988 www.PoppyLaneChristmasFarm.com Roemer Pumpkin Patch Now-October 31, 6851 Hedge Avenue, Sacramento, times vary; closed Mondays Head over to Roemer’s Pumpkin Patch and enjoy a tractor hayride. Just climb aboard, sit down on the hay bales, and enjoy the 13 acre ride through pumpkins galore! After you pick your perfect pumpkin stick around for the corn maze plus more harvest fun!

916-381-433 www.RoemerPumpkinPatch.com The Flower Farm Pumpkin Patch October 1-31, 9280 Horseshoe Bar Road, Loomis, 10am to 4pm; closed Tuesdays In Autumn, The Flower Farm comes to life with incredible fall colors and fun family activities. Enjoy a pumpkin patch filled with pumpkin people and a climbing haystack! Enjoy special activities on the weekends like, puppet shows, animal visitors, face painting, crafts and fall inspired food & beer in the café. A pumpkin patch that’s fun for the whole family.

916-652-4200 | www.FlowerFarmInn.com The Pumpkin Farm October 1-31, 7736 Old Auburn Rd., Citrus Heights, 9am-6pm, closed Mondays The Pumpkin Farm is one of California’s oldest family-run pumpkin farms, celebrating its 42nd year. The farm offers everyone a unique experience located in the heart of Sacramento, magically capturing the fun, festivities and traditions of the harvest season. Enjoy a hayride among blooming sunflowers, train rides, slides, corn maze, petting zoo and more!

916-726-1137 | www.PumpkinFarm.net Uncle Ray’s Pumpkin Patch October 1-31, 5610 Garden Highway, near Sacramento Airport, 10am-6pm No matter how old you are, you’re certain to have a great time at our pumpkin patch. Enjoy free tractor rides, hay rides and corn mazes. No admission or parking fees and there are plenty of

oween Haunts & Harvests overed from Apples to Zombies! pumpkins to carve!

916-997-8573 www.UncleRaysPumpkinPatch.com Zittel Farms Open now through October 31, 6781 Oak Ave, Folsom, weekdays 9am-5pm, weekends 9am-6pm Zittel Farms offers a quaint and picturesque farm and pumpkin patch in the heart of Folsom. It’s been a Folsom favorite since 1976, with lots of farm-style fun for the whole family. Head out and check out a great selection of pumpkins and fall décor including antiques from across the United States, Amish made decor and fine craft preserves and honey. Free hayrides on the weekends!

916-989-2633 | www.ZittelFarms.com Machado Apple Festival Saturday, October 15, 100 Apple Lane, Bowman, 9am- 6pm This is Machado’s 6th Annual Apple Festival and aside from the assortment of tasty apples waiting for you to bite into, there will be more activities for the whole family to enjoy. The mood is set with live music, artists in the orchard and food sampling. There will be alpacas and facepainting for the kiddos so head to the foothills for a day of harvest fun!

530-823-1393 www.Facebook.com/MachadoAppleBarn Dave’s Pumpkin Patch Now-October 31, 3010 Burrows Ave, West Sacramento, times vary Dave’s Pumpkin patch is kicking off their 27th season and cannot wait to see you there! Enjoy patches of pumpkins, corn mazes (including one that’s haunted) and food! They have lots of exciting new activities and events going on this year along with all of the favorites from years past.

916-849-9450 | www.VierraFarms.com

HAUNTED HOUSES, TRAINS & BOATS

CemeTarium Haunted House October 1-31, 7983 Arcadia Dr. Citrus Heights, times vary Check out this Haunted House, you’ll love it to death! Presented by Terror in the Night Halloween Productions featuring Psycho Circus and new for 2016; Zombie Heights! Cemetarium Haunted House offers Low Scare Family Friendly Tours and Full Scare Tours.

916-223-9080 www.CemetariumHauntedHouse.com

DireWorld ScarePark Varying days & times in October, 800 All American City Blvd, Roseville The two most terrifying haunts in Sacramento have joined forces to create one massive Haunted event. Callson Manor & Heartstoppers Haunted House present a terrifyingly twisted haunted theme park that will leave you crying for mummy! Prepare yourself for 3 scare zones, nightly fire shows, exotic vendors plus much more! www.DireWorld.com Fright Fest at Six Flags Through October 30, 1001 Fairgrounds Drive, Vallejo-various times If you get lost, no one can hear you scream for help. Real terror, real thrills, real mazes! Only the bravest of souls dare to enter these haunted mazes. You’ll be blindsided by darkness as you find your way through the labyrinth while being hunted—never knowing what is lurking around the next corner. https://frightfest.sixflags.com/ discoverykingdom/#mazes Fright Planet Weekends Now-October 31st at Cal Expo, times vary At Fright Planet Park, you will jump and scream, and laugh at your friends when they do the same!

Explore countless haunted houses and attractions. Take a breather and enjoy some delicious and Halloween inspired food, dessert, and drinks.

The Park also features numerous photo opportunities to capture the haunted memories that your group will make.

916-678-0266 | www.FrightPlanet.com Ghost Tours at Sacramento History Museum Tours begin October 14 at Sacramento History Museum, times vary Join the “ghosts” of early Sacramento on an eerie journey back in time! Beware of wayward miners, murder victims, and other colorful Gold Rush characters that may cross your path on this mile long guided walk. Not recommended for children under 8 years.

916-808-7059 | www.

SacHistoryMuseum.org/ tours/ghost-tours

Hands 4 Hope Haunted House Fridays & Saturdays, October 7-31, El Dorado Hills Town Center, 6pm-10pm Scare4Hope is a youth led non-profit production company under the umbrella organization Hands4Hope—Youth Making a Difference. Visit an incredibly scary and entertaining haunted house where the management and staff are youth, the goal being to raise funds, build leadership skills, and have fun. This year’s theme is a Twisted Fairytale!

916-294-7426 | www.Scare4Hope.com Sacramento Spooky Halloween River Cruise Three weekends in October, L Street Dock in Sacramento, twice daily The Hornblower will be cruising along the Sacramento River with a fun, family-friendly Halloween River cruise. Spend one hour cruising along the Sacramento River as the evening creeps in with the chilling sounds of background Halloween-themed music. Take your family to the coloring area where spooky Halloween-themed coloring sheets will be available or stop and have your faces painted!

As you disembark, all of the children on board will receive a fun Halloween party favor.

888-467-6256 | www.Hornblower.com Spookomotive Train Rides Saturdays & Sundays October 15-30 at California State Railroad Museum, 11am-4pm Ride the train along the levees of the river and listen to a whimsical Halloween story while the “skeleton” crew passes out a special toy treat for each child. On the return trip, rock to the music of creepy, crawly Halloween songs.

The diesel-powered train is decorated for the season with cornstalks, scarecrows, skeletons, bats and spiders. Each weekend features a different theme!

916-445-5995 | www.csrmf.org Ultimate Terror Scream Park Sacramento October 1-November 5, 4909 Auburn Blvd, Sacramento, times vary Ultimate Terror Scream Park offers 3 outrageous haunted houses and

sacramentoparent.com OCTOBER 2016 23

are not usually travel hot spots, but come the end of September, the word on the street is, “Mom, Dad, take us to Bishop’s!”

During the fall months, when many farmers are making that final pass, Bishop’s Pumpkin Farm of Wheatland, California is busy harvesting crate loads of memories for local families–the rush of climbing Coyote Mountain, the packed stands of the NASPIG Raceway, the twists and turns of the Crazy Corn Maze, and let us not forget, the strange but friendly citizens of Weeland Petting Zoo. A far cry from a few patches of squash, acres of harvestthemed activities surround this pumpkin picker’s field of dreams. Bishop’s is a smorgasbord of live entertainment features, educational farm activities, and a cornucopia of farm-fresh foods and baked goods.

Since 1973, Bishop’s Pumpkin Farm has grown into an indispensable part of Yuba-Sutter culture.

As owner Wayne Bishop points out, “I’ve come to believe that we all still have something deep within us that drives us to harvest in the fall. No matter how many generations we are removed from the farm, we still want to get out in the field and get our hands dirty at that time of year.”

So listen to that inner farmer–or better yet, listen to your kids–mark your fall calendar, and become a part of this wonderful local legacy.

24 OCTOBER 2016 sacramentoparent.com

3010 Burrows Ave, West Sacramento, CA 95691

vierrafarms.com

Come and pick your very own pumpkin straight off the vine!

All ages are welcome to this true working family farm.

Pack up the family and head out to Dave's Pumpkin Patch to create memories for years to come.

Look who's coming to Dave's Pumpkin Patch every Sunday from 10am til dark!

(530) 662-5882

www.DillyDallyTheClown.com

sacramentoparent.com OCTOBER 2016 25

was named the Best in the West

by Forbes. On Fridays & Saturdays, after you’ve exhausted your adrenal glands, check out the live horror entertainment!

530-794-8511 www.ScreamParkCalifornia.com

MONSTER MASHES & WITCHY BASHES

8th Annual Antelope Crossing Spooktacular Saturday 10am at Antelope Crossings in Citrus Heights Free family-friendly fun! Head to the Crossings for carnival games, face painting, a kid’s costume contest and spooktacular entertainment! www.AntelopeCrossing.net 24th Annual Fall Fest 10/25 and 10/28 in Folsom, 10/26 in Granite Bay, 6pm-8pm Join Brighton Schools for a costume party, tricks and treats, cake walks and harvest fun. Free admission with 2 cans of food for Twin Lakes Food Bank.

916-353-1681 | www.BrightonSchools.com All New Boo at the Zoo Saturday & Sunday, October 29 & 30, 11am-5pm (Members Only Hour 10-11am) Get out those costumes, grab a trick-or-treat bag and head to the Sacramento Zoo. Trick-or-treating stations throughout the WHOLE Zoo, face painting for kids, ghoulish games, themed stage shows, keeper chats and even animal enrichments. Top off a perfect day with a ride on the Spooky Zoo Train or the Creepy Carousel for an additional fee.

916-808-5888 | www.SacZoo.org Annual Scarecrow Contest Wednesday October 12, CSD Quad, 1021 Harvest Way, 4:30pm-6:30pm Have you always wanted to create your very own scarecrow? Here’s a chance to let your imagination

26 OCTOBER 2016 sacramentoparent.com

run wild! Gather up your supplies and enter the EDHCSD Annual Scarecrow Contest! There is NO entry fee, and you can use supplies scavenged from the barn or storage shed. Borrow Grandpa’s old straw hat, maybe Grandma’s old apron... even the dog’s bandana... just be sure to ask first!

916-614-3215 | www.ElDoradoHillsCSD.org Count Watt’s Spooktacular Saturday, October 29, 1501 Pleasant Grove Blvd, Roseville, 10am-2pm A free family event with pumpkin carving, a phantom energy house, games & prizes. Costumes are encouraged for festive fun!

774-5200 | www.Roseville.ca.us Day of the Dead Party 2016 Friday, October 14, 1020 O Street, Sacramento, 6pm-10pm Grand opening of the all-new exhibit “Day of the Dead: Art of Día de los Muertos 2016.” Ceremonial blessing & performance by Danza Azteca Kalpulli Maquilli Tonatiuh. Entree plates, cocktails & non-alcoholic drinks available for purchase. Face painting & hands-on kids’ activities, including 2 sugar skull workshop sessions. Costume contest featuring prizes plus much more!

916-653-7524 | www.CaliforniaMuseum.org El Panteon de Sacramento: Day of the Dead/ Dia de los Muertos Sat & Sun October 29 & 30 at 20th St and J St, Sacramento Two days of remembrance and festivities at the region’s largest Dia de los Muertos celebration.

El Panteon de Sacramento includes a Saturday evening desfile (parade) of mojigangas (giant street puppets), live music, and traditional dance performances replicating Mexico’s most popular holiday. This year with special performances by Calidanza Dance Company and La Custre Michoacan de Ocampo.

916-446-5133 | http://www.lrgp.org/ Fairytale Town’s 30th Safe & Super Halloween: Superheroes Friday, October 21-23 at Fairytale Town, Sacramento, 5pm-9pm Join your favorite superheroes for three nights of trick-or-treating and family friendly fun! Enter the world of your favorite comics as you meet superheroes, take part in Wonder Woman’s Amazon training camp and visit a comic book city—but watch out for the Hulk! This extravaganza features 17 treat stations, a nightly costume parade, handson activities and a theater performance each night!

916-808-7462 | www.FairytaleTown.org Fall Festival Sunday, October 16 at Palladio, Folsom, 1pm-5pm A great afternoon of family fun with Hay Rides, Pie Eating Contest, Pumpkin decorating, Face Painting, Cookie Decorating and other great spook-tivities!

916-542-7408 | www.gopalladio.com/events Family Fun Night Thursday October 27, Vernon Street Town Square, Roseville, 4pm-8pm Join in the fun if you dare; all pixies and pirates

want you there! You are invited to a spooktacular Family Fun Night in Downtown Roseville! Hands-on activities, vendor booths, live entertainment, costume contests, a haunted house, trick-or-treating, and a whole lot of fun. Free!

772-PLAY | www.Roseville.ca.us Floating Pumpkin Patch Saturday, October 22 at Mike Shellito Indoor Pool, Roseville, 1pm-4pm Tired of searching those dusty fields for your perfect pumpkin? Hunt for your pumpkin in the pool this year! Once you pick your pumpkin, you can decorate it at the decorating station. The lap pool will be open for recreational swim throughout the event. There are carnival games, bounce houses and story times. Costumes are encouraged!

916-774-5200 | www.Roseville.ca.us Halloween Carnival Monday, October 31 at 10219 Fair Oaks Blvd., Fair Oaks, 11am-4pm A free family event! Enjoy games, face painting and more! Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Fair Oaks and the Fair Oaks Theatre Festival. www.FairOaksPark.org Harvest Hoedown Saturday, October 22 at The Fountains, Roseville, 6pm-10pm Head to The Fountains for a good ol’ time on the square while you shake your tail feathers to live music, square dancing and wagon rides. www.FountainsAtRoseville.com Hope for Hearing Halloween Run Saturday, October 29 at William Land Park, Sacramento, 8am-11am Children’s Choice for Hearing and Talking Center-Sacramento and Hope for Healthy Families Counseling Center is hosting a timed 10K, 5K, and 1K Kid fun run. Post-race festivities include goodies, music, costume contest (costumes are optional), trick or treating for children 12 and under, prizes, and vendor giveaways!

916-361-7290 www.HopeForHearingHalloweenRun.org Munchkin Masquerade Saturday October 29, 1 Jelly Belly Lane, Fairfield, 10:30am Tour the Fairfield Jelly Belly Factory with Mr. Jelly Belly and Kelly the Clown! Treats for the first 300 kids, and costumes are encouraged to make it a festive family-fun time. Free!

800-522-3267 | www.JellyBelly.com Punkin’ Chunkin’!

Sunday, October 29, 2 North Sacramento Street, Lodi, 10am-3pm They must be out of their gourds! For the second time in history the WOW Science Museum is having a Punkin’ Chunkin’ event! They will be teaming up with local sponsor Phillips Farms to bring you pumpkin hurling activities such as: Launching pumpkins with a catapult, or a trebuchet. Check out the brand new Tinkering area where the kids can build their very own candy corn catapults!

209-368-0WOW (0969) www.WOWScienceMuseum.org

Sacramento Children’s Museum Monster Bash Saturday, October 22 at Sacramento Children’s Museum, Rancho Cordova, 6pm-8pm Join the museum for a night of ghoulish fun! Gear up for Halloween and wear your best costume and come play the night away at the Museum! They’ll have a DJ, dancing, refreshments, photo opportunities, and of course Museum play! Tickets will go fast so make sure to get yours today!

916-638-7225 | www.SacKids.org Safetyville Annual Halloween Haunt Saturday, October 29 at Safetyville USA, 11am-4pm This harvest festival and fundraiser offers a unique setting for children and a safe alternative to Trickor-Treating. Wear your costumes and be dazzled by the festive family fun! Families will enjoy a magic show with Trevor Wyatt, harvest maze, face-painting, family games, raffles, live entertainment, and more!

916-438-3357 | www.SafetyCenter.org Spooktacular Halloween Saturday, October 29-30, 1350 17th Ave, Sacramento, 10am-5pm Be thrilled at this Annual Spooktacular that will knock your socks off! Try their hay maze, be mesmerized by a magician, meet galactic characters,

trick or treat at 15 candy stations, free crafts and more!

916-456-0131 www.FunderlandPark.com Spooky Story Time Saturday, October 22, 2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael, 10:30am Gear up for Halloween with some spooky stories told by the Sacramento Storytellers Guild. Stories guaranteed not to cause nightmares, recommended for ages 5 and up.

916-489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net The Elk Grove Pumpkin Festival Saturday & Sunday, October 1-2, 9950 Elk Grove Florin Rd, 10am-5pm Pumpkins everywhere! Head to this festival for everything pumpkin including the; Elk Grove World Pumpkin Pie Eating Championship, pumpkin derby, pumpkin patch and pumpkin food! Enjoy a kids zone, art walk, teen chill zone, and crafts galore! Musical performances, magic shows, jugglers plus so much more!

916-405-7150 | www.Yourcsd.com Trick-or-Treat in Old Sacramento Saturday, October 29 in Old Town Sacramento Little ones are invited to trick-or-treat on the streets of Downtown Mall is Old Town Sacramento. Participating stores will have treats for your

littles, come dressed to impress!

916-442-8575 www.OldSacramento.com Wee Halloween Wednesday, October 26, 216 O Street, Sacramento Don’t miss one of Sacramento’s major Halloween happenings for children 5 and under! An annual tradition, charmingly costumed tots and their grownups take a delightful stroll through the Museum and encounter gentle music and dance surprises. At each stop, children receive a small gift for their specially decorated treat bag. Space is limited, and advance registration is required.

916-808-1182 | www.CrockerArtMuseum.org

The Pumpkin Farm Harvest & Halloween Fun for the Whole Family

Open October 1st - 31st 9am-6pm

(Closed Mondays except on Halloween Day)

• 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

Schedule Your School Tours Today!

FREE Parking First 2 Weekends, Last Weekend & All Week Days

$5 Parking

Only on the 3rd & 4th Weekend

Serving the Sacramento Area for 42 Years!

(916) 726-1137 www.PumpkinFarm.net

7736 Old Auburn Road, Citrus Heights sacramentoparent.com OCTOBER 2016 27

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.

Marta Suarez, Executive Director marta@onlylovechildrenscenter.com

NOVEMBER

L

Bring on the holidays!

Get a jump on your holiday shopping with our round-up of gift ideas and giveaways!

Considering adoption? Pick up this issue to find everything from preparing the nursery to advice from local families.

The crafty that keeps on giving, show your gratitude with a cute wrap bracelet!

Have you heard of Brubbees? Read on about this new play place for children with special needs.

And don’t miss our calendar, it’s overflowing with fun family festivities!

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

www.SacramentoParent.com

28 OCTOBER 2016 sacramentoparent.com

..

ad. e h A g ookin

A Growing Need for Teen Foster Care

By Brittany Fuller

Parenting a child that is not your own is hard for many people to imagine, especially when that child isn’t so much a child anymore, but a teenager. The statistics for foster care in California would shock many. Over 62,000 children are currently in the foster care system in this state, and almost half of them are between the ages of 11 to 17. What some might find more unbelievable is that at least 38% of these children experience five placement changes during their time in the foster care system. The children are even further traumatized as many of them are placed in different homes than their siblings.

“I believe that the hardest group to place would be the teenagers,” says Barbara Deschwanden. Deschwanden has been involved in the foster care community since 2005, and has currently helped place 121 children in foster homes.

“I feel that may be because sometimes teenagers can act out. They have a lot of pain. All the children do,” explains Deschwanden. “Some have gone through and seen so much horror that they should have been protected from, that they don't really know how to process it.

It comes out in so many different ways that we see as anger, disrespect, stubbornness, and bad language, etc.”

Deschwanden became involved in the foster care community after working in the medical field. She loved making a difference in other people’s lives, and when she heard about Koinonia Family Services with her husband at a concert they attended, they both felt lead by God to become involved. Deschwanden explains that she enjoys working with teenagers

the most. She feels they know what they want in life and only need a little help in reaching their goals.

“It is great to be open to fostering teenagers,” says Deschwanden. “There is a high need right now. Most people tend to look at a child and say he/ she has a problem, but they are a product of their environment.

Helping the teens to overcome their past, or learning to deal with it is very rewarding.”

Michael Stafford, another local advocate, also became involved with Koinonia Family Services when he and his wife sought out ways they too, could help children in need of a loving home. Koinonia is a service that was founded in 1982, and is located in Loomis, California. The service helps new foster parents through the process of fostering a child for the first time.

Continued on page 31

“Really teenagers are still just kids, at a different life stage, but still just kids.”

sacramentoparent.com OCTOBER 2016 29

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT BECOMING A FOSTER PARENT? TRY THESE LOCAL RESOURCES: Sacramento’s Super Party Center!

COME JOIN THE PARTY! ALL AGES & THEMES

OPEN PLAY

Tuesday-Friday 9-11am, & Friday 6-9pm Visit website for weekend hours

Two FREE one topping pizzas when you use this coupon at time of booking.

Coupon must be used at time of booking. Expires 10/30/16

Visit our website for more information about our: • Party Packages • After-School Program

916.371.2386

2939 Promenade St., W. Sacramento

www.TheBounceSpot.com

AGAPE VILLAGES FOSTER FAMILY AGENCY, SACRAMENTO 916-414-9007 www.AgapeVillages.org

FOSTER HOPE SACRAMENTO

916-737-1481 www.FosterHopeSac.org

KOINONIA FAMILY SERVICES 877-244-5374 www.KFH.org

PARADISE OAKS FOSTER AGENCY 916-967-6253 www.ParadiseOaks.com

UPLIFT FAMILY SERVICES

877-488-5437 www.UpliftFS.org/foster

Be a Li’l Angel Sponsor a child for the holiday through the “Li’l Angel” program at FosterHope Sacramento.

Your gift will bring joy to a child this holiday season.

You will receive an original, limited edition porcelain angel inscribed with the year to remember your special thoughtfulness.

(Ornament comes with a minimum of $50 donation.)

Go to FosterHopeSac.org today to learn more about foster care and make someone's wish come true this holiday season.

(916) 737-1481

4144 Winding Way, Sacramento 30 OCTOBER 2016 sacramentoparent.com

THE TEAM AT SACRAMENTO PARENT IS SO THANKFUL FOR ALL OF THE WONDERFUL FOSTER PARENTS IN OUR COMMUNITY THAT ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE.

Foster Care continued from page 29

“Koinonia Family Services helped shepherd us through the whole process of training, preparing our home, and becoming certified to provide foster care,” says Stafford.

Stafford and his wife were parents and grandparents to four of their own biological children when they felt the desire to become involved in the lives of other children in the area. Stafford believes that anyone who is willing, and who has a heart for children and teens can become a foster parent. Although, he admits the process to becoming a foster parent is not a fast and easy one. The couple was asked to provide information about themselves, their driving records and their financial records; they were asked to take live scans and to engage in first aid classes, too. It took almost nine months for them to become certified in order to be able to accept a child into their home, but in some cases it can take less time.

Like Deschwanden, Stafford agrees that teenagers are the hardest and most difficult age group to place in foster care. He believes this is due to the fact that most people who are looking to foster a child want younger aged children in order to perhaps build a more permanent type of a family. Although, as older parents, that was not what Stafford and his wife were looking for.

“I think parents who have raised teens are intimidated thinking about it,” Stafford says. “Really teenagers are still just kids, at a different life stage, but still just kids. They need to feel safe, loved, and need a little guidance as they transition to adults.”

Stafford further suggests that research shows every time a child moves homes in foster care they experience brain damage, and the fewer times a child is shifted from one home to another the less damage is done. Unfortunately though, most foster children experience some form of abuse and neglect. However, every child that is placed in foster care is dealing with a different set of difficulties. It may take time and extra effort on the foster parent’s part in order to help the child overcome difficulties that a child in a normal family setting may not have to.

“Every child’s needs are unique and different, whether a younger child or a teen,” says Stafford. “Teenagers seem to come with a greater sense of independence and competency, whether valid or not. The opportunity to touch a teen’s life may be one of the last chances to help get them on track with education, life direction, and love and support before they no longer have those safety nets available.”

for foster parents, especially ones willing to take in teenagers, is growing in this state. She says California has recently decided to close all receiving homes, meaning that all foster children will need to be placed in foster homes with more traditional family settings. Although she believes this is better for the children, this creates the need for more foster parents who can take in the youth. Unfortunately the need for foster parents is ongoing, and is hardly ever completely met.

“The need is real, the need is huge,” Deschwanden emphasizes. “There are hurting children who by no fault of their own are thrown into a crazy system.

They lose everything, their family, their friends, their clothes, their toys, their animals, and their home. These children must have a loving home to land in—a home to support and nurture them, and a foster parent who can just be there for them.”

For more information on becoming a foster parent, or the Koinonia Family services, please visit kfh.org.

Deschwanden is passionate about making sure people know that the need

Brittany is a journalist from Lincoln, who writes on a variety of topics and just finished work on her first novel. She loves writing, gardening, working out and any time she can escape to the beach. See more of her work and her updates at www.BrittanyFuller.org.

sacramentoparent.com OCTOBER 2016 31

It's not too late to find the right school for your child!

Preschool and Kindergarten Morning Saturday, Nov. 5th 9:00-10:00am Please RSVP

Now in Sacramento's Pocket neighborhood!

916-427-5022 • CamelliaWaldorf.org

Give your child the best foundation at

Little Blossom Montessori School

32 OCTOBER 2016 sacramentoparent.com

calendar

r e b o t Oc

Tis’ the season for pumpkin spice and the weather is still quite nice! Head outside and celebrate the changing colors with scenic walks and family fun-runs—you can even bring the dog to some. If you’re more of the indoor type— check out the smorgasbord of crafts, performances and wholesome family events that await you this fall.

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 SATURDAY

6th Annual Sacramento Aloha Festival 10am at Cal Expo, Sacramento The Sixth Annual Sacramento Aloha Festival will celebrate Sacramento’s rich Polynesian culture.

Since its inaugural festival in 2011, the event has attracted thousands of attendees, various vendors, many tastes of foods, and exciting entertainment. www.SacAlohaFest.org 11th Annual California Capital Airshow (10/1-10/2) 9am at Mather Airport The 2016 Airshow will feature the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, U.S. Army Golden Knights, Royal Canadian Air Force CF-18 Demo Team, USAF F-16 Viper Demo, unforgettable theatrical tribute performances, world-class aerobatics, pyrotechnics, miles of displays, interactive exhibits, music, food, and more.

874-0800 www.CaliforniaCapitalAirShow.com

DogFest Sacramento 2016 9am at Southside Park, Sacramento Celebrate the community of people and dogs that make it possible for Canine Companions to show that the most advanced technology capable of transforming the lives of people with disabilities has a cold nose and a warm heart. Grab your leash and get ready to have a tail-waggin’ good time! Enjoy live music, face painting, games & more!

800-572-2275 | www.Facebook.com/ caninecompanions

Fall Frolic 10:30am at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael Acorns and leaves surround our foothills! Find out how our oak woodland changes with the fall season and how wildlife is preparing for winter.

489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net Fall Fun Days Festival (10/1-10/2) 9am at Almador Flower Farm, Plymouth A day trip to this cute flower farm and your family will be surrounded by countryside and farm animals. Take a free tram ride tour of the farm and venture through the hay bale maze, pumpkin patch and cornfield maze.

209-245-6660 www.AmadorFlowerFarm.com Folsom Family Expo 10am at the Folsom Community Center Grab the family and head over to the 11th Annual Family Expo, it’s fun and it’s FREE! 916-988-9888 | www.Facebook.com/FolsomFamily Expo Folsom Glow Run 7:45 at Folsom’s Historic District Plaza Show your glow! Get creative and add spark to your event experience by dressing up in clothing or a costume that glows, blinks, shines, sparkles and stands out from the crowd. It’s not about how fast you run...it’s all about the experience you have with friends and family along the course.

355-7200 | www.Folsom.us.ca Rocklin Mini Maker Faire 10am at Sierra College, Rocklin A family-friendly celebration featuring rockets and robots, digital fabrication, DIY science and technology, urban farming and sustainability, alternative energy, bicycles, unique hand-made crafts, music and local food, and educational workshops and installations. Celebrating invention, creativity, and resourcefulness!

625-5200 | www.Rocklin.ca.us Sacramento Century Challenge 2016 Various times for various rides at Capitol Mall Greens, Sacramento Ride to conquer childhood cancers at the 3rd

annual Sacramento Century Challenge. Whether you want to ride long or ride short, you’ll be helping conquer childhood cancers. Choose from four different distances that travel along the Sacramento River through the scenic Delta wine region. www.SacramentoCentury.com

2 SUNDAY

Things That Slither 1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael Some have scaly skin, some have slimy skin, some have legs, and some don’t! Can you guess what they are? Join the Nature Center if you dare to find out!

489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net

4 TUESDAY

Off the Grid 5pm at Crocker Art Museum, Sacramento Join the Museum every Tuesday night for a food truck festival featuring themed menus, cocktails, live music, and family-friendly activities. Each week, a dozen local food trucks line O Street between 2nd and 3rd streets, offering a variety of cuisines. Free for everyone, not including Museum admission.

808-1182 | www.CrockerArtMuseum.org

6 THURSDAY

Off the Grid: Sacramento Zoo 5pm at Sacramento Zoo Off the Grid is partnering with the Sacramento Zoo to bring food truck dinners and live music to one of Sacramento’s favorite destinations.

Guests will enjoy a selection of ten unique food trucks, live music from local musicians, as well as discounted admission into the Sacramento Zoo. 808-5888 | www.Facebook.com/ events/877765408996173/ Python Ron’s Reptile Kingdom 4pm at Rancho Cordova Library Python Ron (Ron McGee) presents a learning experience about the world of reptiles and insects. Kids will observe, touch, and have the opportunity to hold reptiles and insects of various colors and sizes.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org sacramentoparent.com OCTOBER 2016 33

calendar Sac Girls Rock 8:30pm at Laughs Unlimited, Sacramento Hosted by comedian Regina Givens, with a special tribute to motherhood, head out for a night of live music, poetry, motivational speakers and comedy! Purchase 1 ticket and get 1 free when you get your tickets at the website listed here.

208-7638 | www.SacGirls.eventbrite.com

7 FRIDAY

Artful Tot (10/7-10/8) 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. Families are welcome to arrive anytime during this drop-in program. Please dress for mess. This program is for children from 19 to 36 months old and their caregivers.

808-1182 | www.CrockerArtMuseum.org Oak Park First Fridays 5pm at Broadway Corridor, Sacramento First Friday is an exciting community-oriented event that celebrates all that Oak Park has to offer and transforms the Broadway Corridor into an evening full of shopping, dining, arts installations, a pop-up park, and festive community celebrations. It is a perfect place for dates, families, and friends.

692-5560 | www.FirstFridayOakPark.com

8 SATURDAY

2016 Filipino Family Festival 9am at Elk Grove Regional Park The Filipino Family Festival features great food, raffles, jump houses, entertainment, the Miss Gay pageant, a fun run, and vendors. There will also be a special performance by Introvoys to celebrate the launch of their new album. www.Facebook.com/ events/1196723923712240/ Born to Roam 10am at various locations in the foothills Join ARC for this family exploration program!

Volunteer Naturalists Ola Jane and Catherine lead family hikes every second Saturday of the month. Themes and locations in the foothills change monthly and all ages are welcome. Contact ARC to sign up and for meeting location.

FREE-donations encouraged.

530-621-1224 | www.ARConservancy.org/ Activities Fall Colors 10:30am at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael Create colorful fall art by making a leaf rubbing for each of the leaf shapes found near the Nature Center. Learning about each leaf is the key to identifying the many trees found in this area.

All ages welcome.

489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net Future Engineers Clay Modeling 12pm at California Automobile Museum, Sacramento Sign-up your child for a hands-on Future Engineers Clay Modeling Class! Kids learn about

34 OCTOBER 2016 sacramentoparent.com

how cars were first designed in the early days and how they use design methods today. Kids, ages 7 to 13 will create a model car out of clay just the way the pros do it! Of course, you get to keep your model as a souvenir!

442-6802 | www.CalAutoMuseum.org Kids Night Out at the Museum 5:30pm at World of Wonders Science Museum, Lodi Leave the parents a home and hangout at the WOW enjoying crafts, science experiments and pizza! Space is limited so call, drop by or register online.

209-368-0969 www.WOWScienceMuseum.org Mother Son Kickball 10am at Fair Oaks Park Boys, grab your moms, step-moms, or grandmas and get ready to play ball. The Fair Oaks Recreation and Park District is kickin’ it old school this year with the 5th Annual Mother Son Kickball. This fun-filled event will include a game of kickball and a commemorative t-shirt.

Organized by the Fair Oaks Youth Advisory Board.

966-1036 | www.FairOaksPark.org Octoberfest Craft Fair 9am at St. John the Baptist Church, Folsom The Octoberfest Craft Fair features handcrafted items that make great gifts for the holiday season. The fair includes food, silent auctions, a raffle, craft activities, and music.

985-2065 | http://StJohnsFolsom.org Out of the Box Festival 12pm at Sacramento Horseman’s Club Out of the Box is a community music festival that celebrates art, life, and unity. This immersive family event features national, regional, and local roots music artists as well as students from the Sacramento Blues Society’s Blues In the Schools programs. There will also be music-related workshops, interactive art installations, plus food and craft beer and wine.

202-5075 | www.SacBlues.com/ out-of-the-box/ River City Marketplace 11am at Fremont Park, Sacramento Enjoy this large sized makers’ market designed to showcase 100+ of Sacramento’s artists, makers, and small businesses. There will be artisan food and craft beverages from local food trucks and vendors. Listen to live music, a DIY station, life sized board games, or just soak up the good vibes. Be sure to show up and support this amazing group of creators who are sending the message loud and clear: Sacramento is a hub of talent and creativity. http://RiverCityMarketplace.squarespace. com/

9 SUNDAY

Capturing Wakamatsu: A Poetry Workshop 1pm meeting in Placerville Taylor Graham, El Dorado County Poet Laureate, and award-winning Sacramento-area poet Katy Brown, will lead an exploration of farmhouse, barn and surroundings, then ask

participants to write a poem inspired by what they’ve experienced. Any who wish may share their poems with the group. Children 8+ welcome with adult supervision. Call for more info and to sign up.

530-621-1224 | www.ARConservancy.org/ Activities Greater Sacramento K9 Cancer Walk 9am at Elk Grove Regional Park Pet lovers, by walking in the Greater Sacramento K9 Cancer Walk, you can help give dogs a paw up on cancer by raising funds that support canine cancer research. Each year, more than 6 million new cases of cancer are diagnosed in dogs.

303-708-3435 | www.MorrisAnimalFoundation.org/greatersacramentowalk NatureFest 2016 10am at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael Join the Nature Center for a family day of fun, celebrating Nature! There will be kid’s activities, live animal shows, birds of prey, guided nature hikes, demos and exhibits.

489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net Paddle Splash Festival 7:30am check-in at Lake Natoma, Folsom Sign up for a Stand-up Paddle Race (all abilities welcome) and then stick around afterward for music, educational sessions, giveaways and fun activities on the beach and in the water. The #PaddleSplash Festival is open to the public at Nimbus Flat on Lake Natoma! www.NorCalSup.com Sunday Playday 10:30am at Crocker Art Museum, Sacramento A new monthly program for children ages 4 to 6 and their caregivers, a gallery-based artmaking experience designed to support school readiness. Led by a Museum educator, children will participate in a fun make-and-take project using a variety of art materials, inspired by a different artwork each month. This program takes place every second Sunday of the month.

808-1182 | www.CrockerArtMuseum.org Touch-a-Truck 10am at Raley Field, Sacramento This family-friendly and community event provides children the unique opportunity to see and touch heavy machinery, and meet the people who operate them. The event will feature live entertainment and a variety of trucks including fire trucks, police cars, dump trucks and food trucks.

764-2043 | www.JLSac.org

11 TUESDAY

Homeschool Day: Beyond Sculpture 12pm at Crocker Art Museum, Sacramento Students will view the exhibition “Claire Falkenstein: Beyond Sculpture,” which explores the life and work of one of America’s most experimental and productive female artists, then head to the studio to sculpt with glass beads and wire. $3 per person in advance, $5 per person at the door. Free for homeschool group chaperones.

808-1182 | www.CrockertArtMuseum.org

calendar Off the Grid 5pm at Crocker Art Museum, Sacramento Join the Museum every Tuesday night for a food truck festival featuring themed menus, cocktails, live music, and family-friendly activities. Each week, a dozen local food trucks line O Street between 2nd and 3rd streets, offering a variety of cuisines. Free for everyone, not including Museum admission.

808-1182 | www.CrockerArtMuseum.org

scarecrow contests, art and craft booths, and a costume contest/parade for young and old alike. There are carnival games and pony rides for kids, food and vendor booths and Auburn’s own Sugar Plump Fairies. A day of wholesome activities that cater to the entire family. Free!

530-885-8461 | www.AuburnRec.com

12 WEDNESDAY

Wee Wednesday 10:30am and 11am at Crocker Art Museum, Sacramento Bring your little one and yourself to this gallery-based art experience for children ages 3 to 5. The adventure begins in Tot Land. Free for Museum members and free with general admission for nonmembers.

808-1182 | www.CrockerArtMuseum.org

$25 OFF YOUR BIRTHDAY PARTY! BRING IN THIS COUPON TO REDEEM

May not be combined with any other offer. Expires on 11/1/2016

916.784.1722 www.FTHobbies.com 6831 Lonetree Blvd / E102 / Rocklin / CA / 95765

13 THURSDAY

Gather 5pm at Oak Park, Sacramento Inspired by the warm California nights and the emerging trend of the food culture, Gather is a take on the city as a dining table. A social experience based around the idea that a neighborhood that eats together, stays together and strengthens the community.

692-5560 | www.Unseen-Heroes.com/ gather Off the Grid: Sacramento Zoo 5pm at Sacramento Zoo Off the Grid is partnering with the Sacramento Zoo to bring food truck dinners and live music to one of Sacramento’s favorite destinations.

Guests will enjoy a selection of ten unique food trucks, live music from local musicians, as well as discounted admission into the Sacramento Zoo. 808-5888 | www.Facebook.com/ events/877765408996173/

14 FRIDAY

Fall Home Show (10/14-10/16) Times vary all weekend at Cal Expo Welcome to the 15th Annual Show! Get your home ready for the wild winter weather! At Sacramento’s Fall Home Show, talk to the landscape pros and loads of experts for all your home needs! www.CalExpo.com Jurassic Evening of Silent Films 6:45pm at Fair Oaks Community Clubhouse Join the Sierra Chapter American Theatre Organ society and the Fair Oaks Recreation & Park District for a Jurassic evening of silent films with live music accompaniment featuring Dave Moreno at the mighty Wurlitzer. Popcorn, soft drinks and bottled water will be available for purchase.

966-1036 | www.FairOaksPark.org

15 SATURDAY

Annual Auburn Community Festival 10am at Recreation Park, Auburn Enjoy quality live music, giant pumpkin and

24th Annual Folsom Renaissance Faire (10/15-10/16) 10am at Folsom City Lions Park Journey back in time to a sixteenth century English village brought to life by hundreds of actors in period costume and character. Enjoy a variety of food and drink; shop for handmade crafts; and enjoy thrilling entertainment provided by jousters, swordsmen, musicians and merrymakers.

408-506-6499 | www.FolsomFaire.com 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 Nature Centers’ special guest guides from the Sacramento Audubon Society. Birdwatchers of all levels welcomed. Make sure to bring your binoculars or borrow a pair from the Nature Center.

489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net Jenkinson Lake Hike 9am meeting in Pollock Pines This 7.5-mile loop around the lake has beautiful views of the water from most of the trails. It is fairly easy, but be sure you’re up for the distance. They’ll stop for a leisurely lunch along the way. Donna Orth, ARC volunteer, will be leading this hike with a waterfall along the way. Steady rain cancels. One well-behaved dog (per family) on leash okay. Suggested donation $5/members, $10/non-members.

530-621-1224 www.ARConservancy.org/Activities

16 SUNDAY

Flower Farm’s 10th annual Pet Parade 10am at The Flower Farm, Loomis Bring your pet dressed to impress for the Flower Farm’s 10th annual Pet Parade. Animals of all types are welcome. Prizes awarded for best costume, owner/pet look alike, most unusual and best trick. “All About Dog Safety” Classes will be offered and the Placer SPCA pet adoption van,

Koinonia’s 1st Annual

TEXAS HOLD’EM Play Poker to Help Foster Kids Friday, October 14, 2016 at 5:30pm $55 TEXAS HOLD’EM

3,000 CHIPS FOOD AND ONE DRINK $25 NON-POKER ENTRANCE

FOOD AND ONE DRINK

POKER.KFH.ORG Proceeds benefit Blossom | AGES 21+

sacramentoparent.com OCTOBER 2016 35

calendar plus many more animal guests, will be on hand for a meet and greet.

652-5661 | www.FlowerFarmInn.com Gifts of the Earth 1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature, Carmichael Learn about California’s native people and how plants and animals played a role in the lives of the Maidu people.

489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net Leo’s Amazing Race 10am at Sacramento Children’s Museum Teams of four will compete in 10 different challenges and race against the clock—all for a chance to win a $500 cash prize! Teams and spectators can also enjoy a family carnival complete with food, drinks, games and prizes.

638-7225 | www.SacKids.org

18 TUESDAY

Off the Grid 5pm at Crocker Art Museum, Sacramento Join the Museum every Tuesday night for a food truck festival featuring themed menus, cocktails, live music, and family-friendly activities. Each week, a dozen local food trucks line O Street between 2nd and 3rd streets, offering a variety of cuisines. Free for everyone, not including Museum admission.

808-1182 | www.CrockerArtMuseum.org

19 WEDNESDAY

Food Truck Safari 5pm at Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary Presented by Sactomofo and the Folsom City Zoo, enjoy some of the best Food Trucks in the region the 3rd Wednesday of every month.

Vendors Include: Smokin’ Hot Pizza; Chando’s Tacos; Honest Pie; Gameday Grill; Wandering Boba; Drewski’s Hot Rod; Sweet Spot; and Smoothie Patrol.

351-3527 | www.FolsomZooFriends.org

20 THURSDAY

Off the Grid: Sacramento Zoo 5pm at Sacramento Zoo Off the Grid is partnering with the Sacramento Zoo to bring food truck dinners and live music to one of Sacramento’s favorite destinations.

Guests will enjoy a selection of ten unique food trucks, live music from local musicians, as well as discounted admission into the Sacramento Zoo. 808-5888 | www.Facebook.com/ events/877765408996173/

21 FRIDAY

Falconry: The Bird–Human Connection 6:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael Head to the Nature Center for a lecture on the ancient sport of falconry; how the sport has evolved around the world and what role it plays in today’s technology driven world. The second part of the series will be the following Saturday morning. A perfect event for the bird lover or the raptor curious!

489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net

36 OCTOBER 2016 sacramentoparent.com

Friday Flicks: The Jungle Book 7:30pm at Vernon Street Town Square, Roseville Head out to the square to enjoy The Jungle Book. Don’t forget to bring your blankets and snacks. Weather permitting.

774-5200 | www.Roseville.ca.us Homemade Pasta Party 4pm at Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op Cooking School Kids and Teens in the Kitchen; Learn to make fresh pasta the old-fashioned way! Kids ages 10 to 16 will make fresh handmade bowtie pasta, creamy alfredo sauce and sautéed veggies.

Devine Gelato will be served for dessert.

916-868-6399 | www.SacFood.coop Not-So-Scary Halloween Magic Show 3pm at Colonial Heights Library, Sacramento Celebrate Halloween with a family friendly magic show featuring Magician Mike Della Penna.

Bring your ghosts and goblins, your superheroes and fairies as tricks reign over treats in this silly, fun, laughter-filled show. Halloween costumes are encouraged!

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

22 SATURDAY

Haunted Library 7pm at Valley Hi-North Laguna Library, Sacramento Bring the whole family out to the Haunted Library. It’s a great chance to use your costume twice this year. They’ll lead small groups through the library and there will be two versions of the tour: a scary one for the brave-hearted and a more light-hearted tour for everyone else.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org Rock-Hunting Fun 11am at Rancho Cordova Library Join long-time rockhound, Alan Candee, to learn about the rock-collecting hobby. Informative and fun, children will see and hold fossilized plants and animals—including dinosaur poop— and learn to identify rocks from around the world. Be forewarned: children will be given a semi-precious gemstone to keep and may begin picking up rocks wherever they go!

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org Sacramento Women’s Expo 2016 10am at Sacramento Convention Center The area’s largest shopping event designed for women by women. This fun, inspiring, and empowering event features a shopping expo, beauty bar and pampering, fashion shows, workshops, swag bags, prize giveaways, and more.

226-5446 | www.SacWomensExpo.com

23 SUNDAY

Going Batty 1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael Explore the mysteries of bats. Discover why these curious creatures are so misunderstood.

489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net

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. This program takes place every fourth Sunday of the month.

808-1182 | www.CrockerArtMuseum.org

25 TUESDAY

Off the Grid 5pm at Crocker Art Museum, Sacramento Join the Museum every Tuesday night for a food truck festival featuring themed menus, cocktails, live music, and family-friendly activities. Each week, a dozen local food trucks line O Street between 2nd and 3rd streets, offering a variety of cuisines. Free for everyone, not including Museum admission.

808-1182 | www.CrockerArtMuseum.org

26 WEDNESDAY

Toddler & Family Story Time 10am at Valley Hi–North Laguna Library, Sacramento Join the library for books, songs, stories and fun.

This event is geared especially for toddlers, ages 12 to 36 months, but is appropriate for anyone who wants to sing and/or move. Everyone is welcome to “stay and play” after with the library’s fabulous toys.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

27 THURSDAY

Noche de Muertos 7pm at Crocker Art Museum, Sacramento The Crocker is proud to once again present Calidanza Dance Company’s family-friendly tribute to Mexico’s Dia de los Muertos. Under the stars in the Crocker’s courtyard, Calidanza will showcase rituals, ceremonies, and high-energy dances to commemorate this sacred Day of the Dead. Live musical accompaniment provided

by Orgullo Regional will make this an event to remember. Space is limited.

808-1182 | www.CrockerArtMuseum.org Off the Grid: Sacramento Zoo 5pm at Sacramento Zoo Off the Grid is partnering with the Sacramento Zoo to bring food truck dinners and live music to one of Sacramento’s favorite destinations.

Guests will enjoy a selection of ten unique food trucks, live music from local musicians, as well as discounted admission into the Sacramento Zoo. 808-5888 | www.Facebook.com/ events/877765408996173/

calendar Storytime at the Folsom Zoo 10:30am at Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary Enjoy stories about animals, accompanied by animal puppets and narrated by our wonderful volunteer Zoo Docents. After the story, one of the Zoo’s live outreach animals will pay a visit for kids to get an up-close look. Zoo storytime takes place year-round on the fourth Thursday of each month.

355-7200 | www.Folsom.ca.us

28 FRIDAY

A Spooky Afternoon with the Del Paso Heights Puppeteers 4pm at North Sacramento Hagginwood The renowned Del Paso Heights Puppeteers will take their show on the road this October, and bring their scary brand of storytime to the library. They will perform the ghostly tale of “The Tailypo” and “The Monster and the Tailor.” You won’t want to miss this frightfully good time, so be sure to show up early to get a good spot.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org Halloween Celebration 4pm at Rancho Cordova Library Creepy Activities, Curious Treats and Costume Contests. The focus is on the school-aged crowd, but families are welcome!

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

29 SATURDAY

Caring For Kids Run/Walk 8:30am at Nottoli Park, Elk Grove The Caring For Kids Run/Walk is a 5K and 10K race plus a kids fun run, organized by xHope Missions. It’s specific focus is to shine a light on community groups that focus on “at-risk” youth, foster care, and adoptive services within Elk Grove and the Greater Sacramento region.

The Caring for Kids Walk and Run will encompass categories to accommodate all levels of runners and walkers, including a kids fun run.

804-5357 | www.CaringForKidsRun.com Creepy Crafts 2pm at South Natomas Library, Sacramento Have fun with some creepy crafts and activities, including making special Halloween slime that you can take home with you!

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org Free Comic Book Day 10am at South Natomas, Sacramento Free comic book giveaway for Halloween, hosted by the Friends of the South Natomas Library.

Stop by and get your treat!

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org Happy Almost-Halloween!

1pm at Arcade Library, Sacramento Celebrate Halloween a couple days early at the library! There will be food, face-painting, and crafts.

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org Mad Scientist Lab (10/29-10/30) 12:30pm at PowerHouse Science Center, Sacramento Potions, costumes and chemistry oh my! Have some fun with simple chemistry experiments!

Review the basics of what a chemical reaction is and whip up a potion or two. As you do, learn

how atoms and molecules can be combined to form different compounds. Goggles and lab coats provided! www.PowerHouseSC.org Spooky Harvest Fest 10am at Sylvan Oaks, Sacramento Come in costume (Spiderman? Doc McStuffins?

Fireman?) for a lively program featuring crafts, treats, balloons and more. It won’t actually be THAT spooky!

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org Sugar Skull Workshop Series (10/29-10/30) Various times at California Museum, Sacramento Learn how to decorate your own calavera de azúcar (sugar skull) for Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) in this hands-on learning workshop led by Sacramento’s Sugar Skull Art, whose work is featured in “Day of the Dead: Art of Día de los Muertos 2016.“ 653-7524 | www.CaliforniaMuseum.org There’s No Scent Like Home 10:30am at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael It’s fall and that means the annual migration of Chinook salmon is coming! Join a naturalist and hike to the river to try and catch a glimpse of these impressive fish as they swish and swirl in the shallows.

489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net

Join the Nature Center this Halloween weekend for a program about a bird that has inspired supernatural tales like few others. Although they are not “otherworldly,” the quirky nature of owls is sure to make them the life of the Halloween party.

489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net Halloween Costumes and Baby Storytime 12:10 at Central Library, Sacramento Bring your costume-clad baby to storytime!

They will have spooky good stories and activities to celebrate the eve of Halloween!

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

31 MONDAY

Storytime 10:30am at Downtown Library, Roseville Help your child develop early literacy skills while having a great time! Join in the fun with stories, songs, and puppets to encourage early literacy skills in young children. Space may be limited.

Parent participation required.

774-5221 | www.RosevilleParks.com

30 SUNDAY

Creatures of the Night!

1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael

Carden School of Sacramento

A Distinctive Alternative in Classical Education

sacramentoparent.com OCTOBER 2016 37

calendar/shows

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

Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo Live

October 16 at Harris Center for the Arts Get ready for the ultimate playdate—65 million years in the making—as this production leads you on a breathtaking tour of pre-historic Australia. Meet and interact with an eye-popping collection of life-like dinosaur puppets presented in an entertaining and educational live theatrical performance created

by Erth Visual & Physical of Sydney, Australia.

608-6888 | www.HarrisCenter.net

Heidi

October 22-November 5 at Chatauqua Playhouse Delight in the Children’s Theatre production of “Heidi.” A heart-warming show for the entire family!

489-7529 | www.CPlayhouse.org

Hyronomous A. Frog, The Frog Prince

October 15-29 at Roseville Theatre Arts Academy Join the Treehouse Players for another silly take on the classic fairytale of “The Frog Prince” that will delight audiences of all ages. Hyronomous is bored and unhappy as a frog. He’s larger than the other frogs and hates the taste of flies.

When he finds out he is a human under a spell, he sets out on an adventure to find the one that can set him free! Will he get the magical kiss that turns him into a Prince?

772-2777 | www.RosevilleTheatreArtsAcademy.com

Legally Blonde

October 27-29 and November 3-5 at Benvenuti Performing Arts Center Delta Nu president, Elle Woods is an underestimated blonde who doesn’t take “no” for an answer. When her boyfriend dumps her and heads to Harvard Law School, Elle decides to hit the books and win him back. Along the way, Elle proves that being true to yourself never goes out of style.

491-1028 | www.BenArts.org

Once

October 17-29 at Harris Center for the Arts “Once,” is the winner of eight Tony Awards including Best Musical. Based on the Academy Award-winning film, “Once” tells of a Dublin street musician, and a young woman who takes a sudden interest in his haunting songs; their unlikely connection turns out to be more complex than the average romance.

608-6888 | www.HarrisCenter.net

Sleeping Beauty

October 15 at Harris Center for the Arts Revel in the splendor of the Renaissance as this timeless fairy tale pits evil against the powers of knowledge and courage.

When the most unpleasant fairy in the kingdom is mistakenly excluded from the christening of the newborn princess, she casts a spell that makes the entire kingdom sleep for one hundred years. (Suggested for grades K-5) 608-6888 | www.HarrisCenter.net 38 OCTOBER 2016 sacramentoparent.com

The Garden of Rikki Tikki Tavi

October 1-November 6 at B Street Theatre The gloves are off in this wild comic adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s famous book. In one corner it’s Rikki Tikki Tavi, the loveable mongoose. In the other corner it’s Nag, the fearsome Cobra. Watch as these two square off in this fun and musical show. (Recommended for ages 6 and up) 443-5300 | www.BStreetTheatre.org

The Sound of Music

October 26-November 6 at Community Center Theater A brand new production of “The Sound of Music,” directed by three-time Tony Award® winner Jack O’Brien, is coming to Sacramento. The spirited, romantic and beloved musical story of Maria and the von Trapp Family will once again thrill audiences with its Tony®, Grammy® and Academy Award® winning Best Score, including “My Favorite Things,” “Do-Re-Mi,” “Climb Ev’ry Mountain,” “Edelweiss” and the title song.

557-1999 | www.CaliforniaMusicalTheatre.com

To Kill a Mockingbird

Through October 30 at Sacramento Theatre Company This unforgettable American classic explores themes of innocence, love, prejudice, and injustice, all set in a Great Depression southern town that is rocked by a local court trial. Sacramento Theatre Company’s production will contain an additional musical component, helping take audiences on a deeply moving journey through the triumphs and shortcomings of the human spirit.

446-7501 | www.SacTheatre.org

Trevor

Through October 21 at Big Idea Theatre Trevor was once a minor celebrity, but lately, the spotlight has eluded him and his recent erratic behavior is beginning to concern his neighbors and local law enforcement. Plus, Trevor is an 11-year-old chimpanzee. Inspired by true events, this satire of fame and family explores the frustrations of miscommunication, self-delusion, and the limitations of unconditional love with complex wit and heartbreaking tenderness.

960-3036 | www.BigIdeaTheatre.org

Willy Wonka

October 15-November 27 at Sutter Street Theatre The delicious adventures experienced by Charlie Bucket on his visit to Willy Wonka’s mysterious chocolate factory light up the stage in this captivating adaptation of Roald Dahl’s fantastical tale. Featuring the enchanting songs from the 1971 film starring Gene Wilder and new songs by Leslie Bricusse (Jekyll & Hyde, Doctor Dolittle) and Anthony Newley, Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka is a scrumdidilyumptious musical guaranteed to delight everyone’s sweet tooth.

353-1001 | www.SutterStreetTheatre.com

calendar/exhibits

All phone numbers are area code (916) unless otherwise noted Beyond Material Exhibit Through December 16 at University Library Gallery, Sac State Ann Weber’s unique monumental cardboard sculptures have been exhibited worldwide. Weber weaves found cardboard into organic forms of “biomorphic abstractions.”

278-4189 | www.al.csus.edu/sota/ulg/ Claire Falkenstein: Beyond Sculpture October 2-December 31 at Crocker Art Museum Relentlessly exploring media, techniques, and processes with uncommon daring and intellectual rigor, Claire moved from one art center to another, working first in the San Francisco Bay Area, then Paris, and New York, and finally, Los Angeles. This retrospective exhibition traces the development of Falkenstein’s work both chronologically and geographically from the early 1930s through the 1990s.

808-1182 | www.CrockerArtMuseum.org The Fall Show Opening October 2 at Rancho Cordova City Hall The Fall Show is Rancho Cordova’s largest exhibit of the year. This exhibit is open to all media and all subjects! A wonderful way to start the harvest season!

273-5704 | www.CordovaCouncil.org Flight Zone Open now at AeroSpace Museum of California Pilot your own adventure! The new Flight Zone is a state of the art STEM learning laboratory featuring 10 digital flight stations. Students from 5th grade to high school learn to “pilot” an aircraft flying a professional flight simulator. Explore, dream and see what it’s like to be a pilot!

564-3266 | www.AeroSpaceCa.org

Sacramento Theatre Company School of the Arts is holding AUDITIONS for

for students ages 7-13 years old

www.sactheatre.org

Garden Rhythms October 1-26 at Elk Grove Fine Arts Center Local Painter and Art Teacher, Michelle Vershaw enjoys capturing the mood through portraiture, or conveying the dynamics of a group gathering. The narrative quality of her paintings has one looking deeply, investigating all the details to understand the story behind the paintings.

685-5992 | www.ElkGroveFineArtsCenter.org Highest Heaven: Spanish & Portuguese Colonial Art from the Roberta & Richard Huber Collection October 23-January 22 at Crocker Art Museum “Highest Heaven” explores a time when art flourished in the Iberian colonial possessions of the Altiplano of South America, which stretch from northern Argentina to Peru. Through approximately 107 paintings, sculptures, ivories, objects in silver, and furniture, the exhibition traces the development and spread of the Catholic faith through the creation and use of religious art for devotion and instruction.

808-1182 | www.CrockerArtMuseum.org Two Jills (and no Jack) October 5-December 3 at Red Dot Gallery, Sacramento Red Dot Gallery is pleased to host this exhibit, showcasing the works of Jill Estroff and Jill Stafford.

267-8100 | www.RedDotGalleryOnJ.com We Are All Sacred Exhibit Through October 22 at University Library Gallery, Sac State Sacramento State hosts a retrospective by respected artist and former professor Frank LaPena. We Are All Sacred features works from the 1960s to the present. LaPena’s works reflect his Native American heritage and have been exhibited worldwide.

278-4189 | www.al.csus.edu/sota/ulg/

sacramentoparent.com OCTOBER 2016 39

FAMILIES WITH SPECIAL NEEDS WILL FALL FOR THESE SPECIAL OCTOBER EVENTS! SATURDAY OCTOBER 1

Greater Sacramento Walk to Defeat ALS 9am at Raley Field, West Sacramento More than just a few-mile trek, the Walk to Defeat ALS is an opportunity to bring hope to people living with ALS, to raise money for a cure, and to come together for something you care about.

979-9265 | http://web.alsa.org/site/TR/Walks/Sacramento?pg=entry&fr_id=12010#.

V8SboK3LKFl Sensory Storytime 10:30am at Southgate Library, Sacramento This inclusive storytime was developed for youth with autism and/or sensory disorders and their families/caregivers. It features songs, stories, sensory activities and interactive materials. The program is targeted for a developmental age of 2 to 6 years old. Behaviors and/or noise are no problem. Siblings are welcome!

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary.org

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4

Special Days for Kids with Special Needs!

3pm at Sky High Sports, Sacramento Every Tuesday Sky High Sports turns off the music and dials down the distractions for the comfort of our extra special jumpers. They welcome children and young adults with special needs and their siblings, family and friends to enjoy an afternoon of bouncy fun.

853-JUMP | www.Sac.SkyHighSports.com

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8

Spaghetti Feed and Carnival 5pm at Project RIDE Arena, Elk Grove Join in for this popular family-friendly feast featuring endless pasta, salad, and bread. There will also be carnival games for all ages and abilities, a talent and fashion show, a raffle and silent auction, and DJ dancing. Proceeds benefit Project RIDE’s therapeutic horseback riding program for people with special needs.

685-7433 | www.ProjectRide.org

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 12

Beary Special Playdate 5pm at Sacramento Children’s Museum, Rancho Cordova Beary Special Playdate is a monthly event for special needs children and their families. Enjoy Museum activities and light refreshments. Admission to the Museum is free. This is a RSVP only event as space is limited.

638-7225 | www.SacKids.org

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22

Autism Family Friendly Movie 10:30am at Sylvan Oaks Library, Citrus Heights Join the library for a special family movie event for kids with autism and/or sensory disorders. “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!

264-2920 | www.SacLibrary

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29

Hope for Hearing Halloween Run 7am at William Land Park, Sacramento CCHAT (Children’s Choice for Hearing and Talking) Center-Sacramento and Hope for Healthy Families Counseling Center (HFHF) will host a timed 10K and 5K and 1K Kid Fun Run at William Land Park from 8:00am to 11:00am. Children under 3 are free and pricing varies according to your registration date, so register early!

361-7290 | www.HopeForHearingHalloweenRun.org

MONDAY, OCTOBER 31-NOVEMBER 4

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Disability Awareness Art Week Exhibit October 31-November 4 at Folsom Lake College This week-long exhibit of artwork, produced by students with disabilities, will highlight the students’ artistic achievements. The art week promotes the students’ self-esteem, pride in their talents, and fosters an awareness of the creative achievements of students with physical, psychological, or learning disabilities.

608-6611 | www.flc.losrios.edu/student-services/student-aid/dsps/art-show

go play

Fairytale Town’s New Sacramento Adventure Playground Photos by Melissa Etcheverry

What would extra income mean for your family?

PARTY

You’ve now got a new place to play and it’s sure to inspire your child’s creativity and imagination.

Fairytale Town’s Sacramento Adventure Playground at Maple Neighborhood Center opened toward the end of August. It’s a free after-school youth development program where youth can use raw materials to create their own play spaces.

Here’s why you should check it out: Adventure Playground’s put real tools, such as hammers, nails, saws, paint, gardening supplies and more, into the hands of youth to create and destroy their own things and spaces with facilitation rather than direction from adults. They originated in Europe after World War II, when landscape and playground architects noticed that children spent more time playing in the war rubble than in structured playgrounds. They observed that children were more engaged in play spaces they created themselves and thought that these non-traditional environments inspired imaginative, collaborative and thoughtful play.

“We’re thrilled to open the Sacramento Adventure Playground at Maple Neighborhood Center,” said Kathy Fleming, Fairytale Town’s executive director.

“Play is essential to healthy development, yet research shows that play in general, and creative play in particular, is declining for youth. The Adventure Playground is a fun and safe environment where youth can play, and more importantly, direct their own play.”

COMMUNITY DAYS: OCT. 8 & NOV. 12 11AM-3PM FREE FOR ALL AGES

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

The Sacramento Adventure Playground is located at 3301 37th Avenue and is geared for youth ages 7 to 15. Participation is free, but youth must be registered by a parent to participate. The registration form is available for download at SacAdventurePlay.org. The Playground is open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 2:15 to 6:30pm and Saturdays from 11am to 3pm. The Playground will also hold regular community play days to allow children and youth of all ages to participate.

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Mama y yo fall sessions starting now

Children learn Spanish while developing preschool skills.

Folsom • Sacramento Arden Arcade Area

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

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Call Us Today! 530.889.6177 Shannon@SacramentoParent.com

sacramentoparent.com OCTOBER 2016 41

story time

Winnie and Mannie

By Michelle M. Swaby

Winnie and Mannie are two chicks that were hatched in the same pen, on the same day, and from the same hen. They lived on Mr. Warren’s farm in a small country town.

Winnie and Mannie did everything together, but the only problem was, Winnie was brave and Mannie was not, so whenever they played, Winnie had more fun.

Winnie thought she had to find a way for Mannie to be brave.

“Mannie, let’s pretend we are pirates and that puddle is a great sea filled with sharks, but we have to cross it to save our family,” said Winnie excitedly. “I don’t know Winnie, what if there is a nail at the bottom of the puddle and it hurts my leg, then the doctor has to take off my leg?” responded Mannie. “What!” exclaimed Winnie, “Let’s go Mannie, we have to save our family.” Mannie replied with his arms folded, “We aren’t pirates, and that puddle looks too deep, and even if we do it, what if the sharks eat us?” Then Winnie announced, “I am a pirate, I am going to cross that sea, and I will save my family!” Winnie went through the puddle, splashing and dashing, she had so much fun, she wanted to do it again.

Mannie walked around the puddle and said, “Look at your feet, now they are all muddy.” Winnie washed her feet, “Now my feet are clean,” said Winnie.

sighed Mannie, “What if I fall off the tractor and bump my head, then I’ll have to wear a bandage on my head forever?” “No you won’t,” responded Winnie.

Mannie said with his arms folded, “We aren’t treasure hunters, and that tractor is too high, and even if we do it, what if the monsters eat us?” Then Winnie announced, “I am a treasure hunter, I am going into that cave, I will find that treasure, and I will build a castle for my family.” Winnie climbed onto the tractor, and while she was on the tractor, she found yummy kernels of corn and ate them. When Winnie climbed down from the tractor, Mannie saw her and said, “Now you are all dusty.” Winnie brushed off the dust from her feathers, “Now I am clean,” said Winnie.

Winnie and Mannie started walking over to the pen, when they saw a snake slithering toward the pen heading for the eggs. “Oh no,” said Mannie while he covered his face,

“The snake is going to eat the eggs.”

While he said that, Winnie ran to get the chickens, they all ran around the snake and started flapping their wings, squawking really loudly and kicking up a lot of dust. Farmer Warren heard the commotion and ran over. He captured the snake and took it away. The chickens lifted Winnie in the air and shouted, “Hooray for Winnie.” Mannie held his head down.

The next day, Winnie and Mannie went walking around. When they saw huge bales of hay, Winnie shouted, “Let’s pretend that we are mountain climbers and the bales of hay are huge mountains filled with mountain lions, but we have to climb it to get to the magic seed we need to plant so our family will always have food.” Mannie responded, “Let’s go, we are mountain climbers, we will climb that mountain, and we will get that magic seed!”

The End

“Mannie, let’s pretend we are treasure hunters, and that tractor is a cave filled with monsters, but we have to go in the cave to find the treasure so we can build a castle for our family.” “Not again,” Michelle Swaby is a stay at home mom of two children, ages 3 and 7. Prior to staying home, she worked as a CPA for almost 14 years. Because Michelle believes that reading is one of the most important things that should be encouraged in a child, it led her to write children’s stories and create a YouTube book channel to make her contribution to literacy.

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We are very thankful for our families and community for voting L.F.U. Folsom’s Best of the Best Preschool and Daycare for 3 consecutive years!

(916) 985-7055

LittleFolksU.com

sacramentoparent.com OCTOBER 2016 43

TRICK OR TREATING DOESN’T HAVE TO BE SCARY: Managing life with food allergies can be tricky. That’s especially true at Halloween. This year, let the team at The Allergy Station partner with you. We can diagnose your child’s allergies and work with you to formulate a plan to make every day a safe day. Because even if you have food allergies, Halloween doesn’t have to be scary!

(916) 736.6644

Four Locations Serving Greater Sacramento: Roseville, Sacramento, Folsom and Fair Oaks

theallergystation.com | sacent.com

44 OCTOBER 2016 sacramentoparent.com