Sacramento Parent July 2017

parent July 2017

Sunshine, Angel & Rainbow Babies

sacramentoparent.com

EASY PATRIOTIC FLOWER POTS

SUMMER GUIDE TO EDUCATION + ENRICHMENT

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Our well-trained staff specializes in making every visit comfortable for young children, and we offer a gentle approach to kids with special needs.

Schedule your baby's first dental appointment at tooth's first eruption and prior to their first birthday.

7916 Pebble Beach Drive, Suite 101, Citrus Heights, CA PH 916-962-0577 | FAX 916-962-0584 FOLLOW #TEAMWEIDEMAN | @WEIDEMANDENTAL

www.sacchildrensdentist.com

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parent July 2017

contents

Paisley currently works in San Francisco and L.A. as a model and she loves every second of it. She also enjoys playing with her big brother Jayden and dancing. She hopes one day to be a veterinarian and help all the puppies in the world! Jayden is 7 years-old and has a passion for hip hop and tap dance. He’s super excited to start his summer break.

on our cover

Photographer: Candice Glazer Photography www.Facebook.com/candiceglazerphotography

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departments 10 FUN FINDS

features 22 Sunshine, Angel and Rainbow

Babies

Learn + Win!

15 CRAFTY

Patriotic Flower Pots

16 CAMP

25 28

A Place for Imaginary Friends Kids and Concussions

Progressive Day Camp

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around town 13 Sacramento Parent Presents: EDfair

36 CALENDAR Sizzling Summer Fun

38 ON STAGE Star-worthy Productions

39 ON DISPLAY Shining Displays

41 ON REPEAT 18 21

Special Needs Music Lessons

Summer Nights, Rockin’ and Rollin’

iFLY for All Abilities

special advertising section 31 SUMMER GUIDE TO EDUCATION + ENRICHMENT

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It’s not just the temperature that heats up in July, summer camps, family day trips and evening festivities are in full swing! So make this summer sizzle, take lots of pics and jot down your favorite summer memories along the way!

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

photographers: Candice Glazer Photography www.Facebook.com/candiceglazerphotography In the Moment Photography by Leila www.Facebook.com/inthemomentphotographybyleila contributing writers: Mali Anderson | Allison Hopkins | Lara Krupicka Pam Molnar | Amber Pryor | Christine Quarry Shannon Smith | Diana Watkins

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

Speaking of summer fun, we are excited to kick-off our first-ever EDfair! I was all-in the second I heard, The Hipwaders were going to be on stage, but this is also your chance to chat with many experts in the area that bring local families stellar education and enrichment programs throughout the school year and beyond!

And for those seemingly long, boring summer days at home... sometimes all it takes is a walk to the park, a lemonade stand, sidewalk chalk, or simply fill some water balloons... and maybe, $5 and a trip to the dollar store for a quick craft (my girls just made these flower pens).

BILLING QUESTIONS

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

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Get creative and have fun!

Wishing you the best summer! pinterest.com/ SacParent

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

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

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

Family Campouts July 22 & August 11 Bring the whole family for a fun-filled sleepover in our storybook park! Each campout includes a theater show, craft activities, a scavenger hunt, fun games, and bedtime stories, plus exclusive playtime at Fairytale Town!

Tickets are $25-$30 per person.

Member discounts are available.

Sign up today! fairytaletown.org Celebrating 25 years O sacramentoparent.com

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fun finds

Learn, Play & Imagine!

Edited by Shannon Smith

WIN IT!

Imagine all the enriching ways you can keep your little ones learning and playing this summer! Head over to SacramentoParent.com, enter to win and let the fun begin!

Tumble Tree

Build your own baobab tree in this card placement game. Each animal card has its own way to be added to the ever-growing canopy, but place them carefully! If the branches are overburdened the tree will fall. The player with the least amount of cards at the end wins, but most importantly…don’t let the tree-top topple! www.BlueOrangeGames.com/index.php/games/tumble-tree

Playfoam® Shape & Learn Alphabet Set

Preschoolers can practice making letters and more with this all-new Playfoam set featuring 8 colored Playfoam bricks and 13 double-sided cards for learning letters. Kiddos can place their squishy, squashy Playfoam on top of the letter card to practice molding the letter shapes for alphabet mastery. Make learning last with no-mess, non-stick Playfoam that never dries out! www.Amazon.com

All Ready for Toddler Time Readiness Kit

An assortment of items—including jumbo farm counters, alphabet picture cards, and an activity mat—target key toddler skills. They’ll learn the alphabet, shapes, colors, counting and more! All pieces can be stored in the included sturdy box. Activity mat measures 10”L x 9”H. www.Amazon.com

PlayTape Classic Road and PlayTape Curves

With a single roll of PlayTape Classic Road Series, you can create a road or a whole city. Use the toy cars you already have to drive on PlayTape. Use the blocks and toy buildings you already have to build a town through which PlayTape traffic flows. Create places real or imaginary. Expand their excitement with PlayTape Curves… the twists and turns all roads deserve. www.InRoadToys.com

To Go - Sudoku

A compact and chic version of the classic Sudoku game, designed in a slim tin case, printed on both sides with magnetic pieces. Ideal for road trips! www.The-Purple-Cow.com

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

• Preschool (ages 18 mos.-5 yrs.)

• Summer Camps (ages 18 mos.-10 yrs.)

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

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

Call to Schedule Your Tour Today!

Check Out Our Convenient Location:

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5130 Golden Foothill Pkwy., El Dorado Hills

916-521-1835

Hours: 6:30am-6pm

Infant Lic. 093616199 • Pre-School Lic. 093616198

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O 7 D pen ays !

or n f e!

Fu ryon e Ev

Educational Supplies for Parents, Teachers & Homeschoolers

Slot Car Racing Fun & Hobbies!

Now Registering!

Fall Classes!

May not be combined with any other offer.

Expires 7/31/17

A Family Fun Center!

6831 Lonetree Blvd / E102 / Rocklin / CA / 95765

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OPEN PLAY

2939 Promenade Street West Sacramento

Tuesday-Friday 9-12pm till August 18th Please visit website for play times when kids are on school break.

Now able to BOOK ONLINE (Please mention this ad when booking online)

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WIN IT!

Psssst...

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

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Thank You!

Sacramento Parent would like to thank the generous sponsors of EDfair 2017 and the first Cover Kid Search for kiddos in grade school!

Come thank them in person on Friday, July 21st from 4 to 8pm at the Palladio at Broadstone in Folsom.

Expo

Education & Enrichment

Sacramento Parent can’t wait to bring you EDfair this month! This FREE community event will showcase some of Greater Sacramento’s best education and enrichment programs for kids. Parents can explore local schools, tutors and activities; including dance, gymnastics, martial arts, music lessons and more!

This lively evening outdoors will be packed with family-fun, too! You’ll want to plan to stay and play because the entertainment line-up is fully-loaded, here’s a peek:

Live Music by The Hipwaders

Visits from Mad Science and Amazing Animal World Karate and Gymnastics Demos

®

A Cool Kids Fun Zone sponsored by K12 Cover Kid Search for children ages 5 to 12, sponsored by Little Sunshine’s Playhouse & Preschool Delicious Food and Treats

parent Make a Difference Be sure to stop by Pinkberry and Jake’s Desserts for cool treats! Your purchase will support ​Hands4Hope, a local, youth volunteer organization empowering youth to make a positive difference in the world around them through exploration, action and leadership. www.Hands4HopeYouth.org

Friday, July 21 | FREE | 4-8pm Palladio at Broadstone in Folsom Come celebrate learning with us! For more information visit, www.SacramentoParent.com/ed-fair.html

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Join us for Transitional Kindergarten

TK-8 Tuition-Free Public Waldorf Schools Curriculum designed to develop the listening and speaking skills, imagination and social skills of the kindergarten age child.

• Storytelling • Puppet Plays • Singing • Nature Walks • Creative Free Play • Artistic & Hands-On Activities GOLDEN VALLEY CHARTER SCHOOLS HAS TWO LOCATIONS SERVING THE GREATER SACRAMENTO AREA. RSVP FOR A PARENT INFORMATION MEETING. • Support by credentialed teachers • On-site enrichment and art classes • Individual education plans • Field trips • Social activities • Hybrid homeschool options also available

Visit: www.goldenvalleycharter.org for more information.

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Patriotic Flower Pots

Carden School

By Lady DIY

of Sacramento

A Distinctive Alternative in Classical Education

Supplies Needed: Terra cotta flower pots (optional: terra cotta saucers) Acrylic paint in red, white and blue Red, white or blue flowers (I used white Vinca) Potting soil Star-shaped stickers Paint brush Painter’s tape (about 1” wide)

Directions: Step 1: Cover the outside of all three pots with white paint. Allow to dry completely.

Step 2: On Pot #1: place star-shaped stickers in a random pattern on the outside of the pot. On Pots #2 and #3: create stripes with the painter’s tape.

(Any place covered by painter’s tape or a sticker will remain white.)

EARN $7,000 + AS AN EGG DONOR

Step 3: On Pot #1: paint the outside of the pot blue.

On Pots #2 and #3: paint the outside of the pots red. Allow paint to dry.

A Few Helpful Tips: • Paint the top inch or two of the inside of the pot as well. You don’t have to paint the entire inside–it will be covered with soil.

• If you are using saucers underneath the pots, paint them in coordinating red and blue as well.

• Unused holiday or birthday plates are a great place for the pots to dry. The slightly shiny surface of the plates keeps the pots from sticking when the paint has dried.

Step 4: Remove stickers and painters tape to reveal the white stars and stripes.

Don’t worry if some of the paint leaked under the tape or stickers–you can always touch-up with more paint!

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

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Progressive Day Camp

A Budget Friendly Way to Entertain the Kids this Summer

By Pam Molnar

Summer camp is a win-win situation for families. It gives parents the child-free time they need to work or care for younger children, while keeping their older children occupied with fun activities. Sacramento Parent loves the enrichment opportunities summer camps bring to kiddos, but what if you just can’t afford to offer them that summer camp experience every week?

If you are looking for a more budget friendly way to achieve the same benefits that a day camp provides, you might want to consider a progressive neighborhood camp. Other than camp supplies, the only cost for a neighborhood progressive camp is an hour of the parents’ time each day.

The parent counselors take turns providing one hour of structured entertainment in the form of games, crafts and other activities.

When the hour is up, the children move onto the next house, leaving that parent the rest of the time to do their work child-free.

How it works: Choose the number of participants based on the number of children and their ages. The number of families, not the number of children, will determine how long your camp is each day. For example, if you have five families, your camp is 5 hours long. If you have many children, you can enlist the help of a babysitter who will move from house to house with the children and act as an assistant camp counselor.

skill level or tolerance for mess. Using a daily theme for your camp will help to tie the activities together. Theme ideas include pajama day, beach party, super hero, patriotic, decades day, sports jersey day and Wacky Wednesday. Work as a group to determine a budget after factoring the number of children and the supplies needed for each activity. An example itinerary for a Wild West theme can be found in the sidebar to the right.

Planning: Choose the activities that you will include in your camp. Some suggestions include outdoor games, arts and crafts, music and dance, gardening, cooking and baking, science projects, story time and of course, lunchtime. Other options include teaching a new skill, like how to sew on a button, or inviting a guest speaker to come. If your group is small, you might also consider a short field trip.

Keep the costs down: You will find craft supplies at OrientalTrading.com, which is a goldmine for inexpensive kids’ crafts and game prizes. Instead of serving lunch for a large group, consider having each child bring a sack lunch.

Parent camp counselors can choose which activity they host based on their

If you plan to send the kids home with a trinket each day, consider something reusable like relay race water bottles from the dollar store. Other inexpensive ideas include a DVD of the music video they made or an egg carton full of the seedlings they planted.

Putting it all together: All the kids will meet at the first house at the start of camp. The camp counselor should be prepared to start the activity as soon as the kids arrive. Each session should end five minutes before the next hour so the counselor (or babysitter) can walk the kids to the next house. At the end of the day, each parent will pick up their child at the last house.

Don’t forget to capture the memories: Take a lot of pictures of the kids at camp.

You can find inexpensive photo booth printouts online, at Etsy or snap candid shots of the kids in action. Make a slide show of the photos to share with the campers on the last day and give everyone a copy.

The best thing about a progressive day camp is that you can host a weekly camp or just one day each week for the whole summer. Unlike other camps, these parents will be a part of their child’s camp experience, an advantage that is priceless.

Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three who believes it takes a village to raise children. She is forever grateful to the many moms and dads who have created so many memories for her family.

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Example Progressive Camp Today’s Theme: Wild West 9:00 to 10:00 Arts and Crafts at Smith House

Make marshmallow shooters 10:00 to 11:00 Cooking and Baking at Yu House

Making Homemade Ice Cream 11:00 to 12:00 Outdoor games at Johnson House

Playing horseshoes, water gun shooting gallery, rope the

horse, sack races 12:00 to 1:00 Lunch and Storytime at Brown House

Serving wagon wheel pasta and pigs in a blanket plus

homemade ice cream

Reading: “Cowboy Camp” by Tammi Sauer

1:00 to 2:00 Music and Dance time at O’Malley House

Learning to square dance

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Nicholson Melodies Music lessons for those with special needs

By Allison Hopkins

“Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything.” –Plato There’s something unique that happens at a music studio. If you’ve taken your kids to lessons, you may have noticed it.

Life slows down a bit. Electronics go missing. Children from all backgrounds and of all ages get ready to play their instrument or practice their vocals, and you feel their sense of pride. You also see their respect for their teacher. It’s inspiring.

One local musician and teacher, Jason Ashcraft, has set out to make sure that everyone can experience this type of joy, including those with special needs. Launched in January 2017, Nicholson Melodies has a mission of providing excellent teaching with the knowledge, understanding and patience for those who need it. As the owner and teacher, Ashcraft is excited to be offering music lessons at Fifth String Music Store in downtown Sacramento on Wednesdays and Thursdays, as well as offering in-home lessons throughout the greater Sacramento area.

“Music is a wonderful tool to help with communication and understanding,” says Ashcraft. “It’s a great way to socialize and connect with the world around you. Not only do I see these kids having a great time learning music, but it can bring out their creative, unique and artistic side that’s waiting to be shown to the world.”

Ashcraft brings both sides of the equation to his practice:

he’s been a musician his entire life (he’s the founder and main songwriter for the traveling science-based metal band, Helion Prime), and he’s been helping those with special needs since he became a young adult. For the past few years, he has worked for Applied Behavior Consultants as a behavior technician, teaching people with autism from 3 to 22 years-old. He loves his job.

“They are some of the brightest, kindest and interesting people you will ever meet,” says Ashcraft. “At the school, I try to introduce music into our lessons when I can. I’ve seen some grasp the concept fast and I think ‘if they can understand this with just the little bit we do, what could they get with full lessons?’”

Ashcraft describes how the children get excited when they are able to play a song on the guitar, or even just beat a simple beat on a drum, sharing with him their hopes of becoming rock stars.

He saw a definite need for this type of private service in Sacramento, and his goal is for Nicholson Melodies (named in honor of his grandparents) to soon be offering a wide range of music lessons, including guitar, vocals, piano, theory, audio engineering and even group lessons. There is no age limit and he looks forward to helping those with autism and different types of special needs.“I will provide the understanding, patience and care needed to make these children as successful as they possibly can be,” says Ashcraft. “Simple things we take for granted every day are things they may struggle with. Yet the flip side to that coin is they can be amazing with numbers, memory, drawing, and of course, music. These kids are all incredible in their own way.”

Allison Hopkins has been a freelance writer and editor in the Sacramento area since 2002. She enjoys spending time with her husband and son.

She is also an aunt to four special nephews and a spectacular niece!

“I’ve seen some of the kids singing along to songs like ‘You’ve got a friend in me’ from ‘Toy Story.’ Children, who for the most part, have issues with communication... yet here they are singing the melody and giving it their best.”

-Jason Ashcraft, Owner/Teacher

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Turner Cranial Technique is an exciting new treatment that creates fast, profound healing for autism, ADHD, Asperger's, OCD, Tourette's, Down's, cerebral palsy, learning disabilities, sleeping problems, migraines, concussions, dementia, and other brain conditions.

Offering Lessons Wednesdays & Thursdays, 3pm-7pm

michael fiske dc

Located at Fifth String Music Store, 3184 N Street In-home lessons available different days as well.

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916-764-9302 | NicholsonMelodies.com

We strive to bring the beauty of music into the lives of individuals with special needs, providing excellent teaching with the knowledge, understanding and patience for those who need it. Each lesson is crafted around the abilities and needs of the student, offering a unique and personalized experience.

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community event will showcase the Sacramento area’s wide array of

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iFLY for All Abilities

By Shannon Smith

I know quite a few people that have gone skydiving, and they all LOVED it! As for me, I would put myself in the ‘I would NEVER, EVER jump out of a plane for fun’ category! But that’s me, probably stemming from a traumatic memory of sliding down a cliff while camping as a child.

Ever since, I haven’t overcome that fear of heights (or even being anywhere near the edge of a long drop). So, the thought of falling thousands of feet from the sky toward the unforgiving earth below (even with a trusted parachute), sounds more terrifying than exhilarating.

Yet, even with my extreme fear, comes wonder? What’s it like? So, seeing iFLY come to the Sacramento area got me thinking, I could do this!

Now, as they are celebrating being a part of the Sacramento area for a year, it was about time my family and I check out iFLY. First, I’ll say this about my family, I have a daredevil twelve-year-old daughter (who looks like me, but clearly takes after her dad), and a ten-year-old who likes to wait, watch and let others take the lead. This was going to be an adventure!

When we got there we got all checked in, which included getting weighed (luckily they don’t share the #), and we took a quick class with our flight instructor for the day, Alex. My oldest daughter and hubby decided to add-on a high fly with Alex for their second time in the giant wind tunnel. From there, we suited up and prepared to fly.

Alex was great, he kept us flying with signals to remind us to keep our chins up, etc. After one minute in the tunnel, my youngest daughter was signaling that she wanted to go up higher liker her dad and sister. What the heck, we all ended up upgrading to the high fly, and it was pretty cool!

So, if I could do it and they had my cautious ten-year-old grinning ear to ear…

I’d say it’s for anyone and everyone. The team at iFLY also shares that they cater to families with special needs. If you’ve ever dreamed of skydiving, but can’t fathom jumping from a plane, you can enjoy a simulated experience at their Roseville location. We did it...we looked funny, we drooled a bit, we laughed a lot and my kids wanted to go back before we even got in the car!

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Deanna Fox 916-220-9994

iFLY Sacramento is located in Roseville, if you want to plan a visit, check their website at www.iFLYworld.com/sacramento/ or give them a call at 916-836-4359.

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

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

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

Raising a child with special needs?

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

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Sunshine, Angel and Rainbow Babies

By Amber Pryor | Photos: In the Moment Photography by Leila

Pregnancy after the loss of a child is a tapestry of emotions.

A rainbow baby, a child who is born after the loss of a sibling, represents the light, hope, and joy returning into the lives’ of their family. These children are called “rainbow babies,” because the beauty of the rainbow does not negate the ravages of any storm. When a rainbow appears, it does not mean the storm never happened or that we are still not dealing with its aftermath. It means something beautiful and full of light has appeared in the midst of the darkness and clouds.

Storm clouds may still hover but the rainbow provides a counterbalance of color, energy, and hope.

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are six Northern California moms who came together to celebrate the arrival of their precious rainbow babies, under the artistic direction of local photographer, Leila Steffens of In The Moment Photography.

The women were all encouraged to come together for these memorable photo shoots, by Gavin Ferguson, husband to Stacy and 106.5 The End “Wake Up Call” morning show host, when he learned they were all expecting again. “I contacted our family photographer, Leila, when Stacy was inspired by a similar, yet unrelated photo online,” said Ferguson.

“I felt this was a special way to not only commemorate our journey, but to send a message of love and hope to others who have suffered a similar loss; last I checked, 25 years

our image and message had been viewed by over a million people online.”

The photos, which show the six women pregnant and then again holding their little ones eight months later, truly represent the nature of a rainbow baby pregnancy, as described by these mothers and their photographer.

“During the first shoot, I wanted everyone to look happy, but knew it wasn’t a regular maternity shoot,” said Steffens.

“We were all anxious, not joyful,” said Zahra, mother to angel baby (a child lost to miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal or infant death) Roya, and rainbow babies, Emir and Cyra.

“Pregnancy after loss is a rollercoaster of emotions,” said Taylor (mother to angel

baby Bailey and rainbow baby Rylan). “While pregnant with Rylan, I found myself not wanting to get attached for fear that something would happen again. I still cherished every second I was pregnant, but after you suffer a loss you tend to always think the worst and worry about every little thing.”

“We all had reserved smiles in our first group photo,” added Rebecca; mother to sunshine babies (children born before infant loss), Charlotte and Sawyer, angel baby Tucker and rainbow baby Morgan. “But as each baby arrived among the group, we became reassured (especially by Gavin and group texts of each newborn as they arrived) that everything was going to be fine.

You can see the difference in our smiles in the group photo after they [rainbow babies] were in our arms; no more anxious mothers, hope had won.”

Theo, the Ferguson’s rainbow baby was the first in the group to arrive.

“Theo brought hope, more light, and joy back into our lives,” said Stacy (mother sunshine baby Connor, angel baby Phoebe and rainbow baby Theo). “He isn’t Phoebe, but he is his own person that we love just as much. He is Connor and Phoebe’s little brother who put us back into “baby world,” a world we so desperately wanted to be in again. We finally got to do so many things we were waiting to do; like bring our baby home to the nursery we had prepared, snuggle, listen to giggles, watch our baby grow, and watch Connor finally interact with a sibling.”

nurture as their rainbow babies grow and how the existence of their rainbow baby only strengthens their love for and the memory of the child they lost.

For Emir’s first birthday (their first rainbow baby), Zahra and her husband Chris decided to throw a rainbow themed party. In their invitations they asked their guests to wear rainbow colors as a way to celebrate Emir, but to also remember Roya. “This was our way of incorporating our loss into the future,” said Zahra.

“The death of my daughter truly crushed me and left me forever wounded, but because of her, my son and daughter now exist and they saved me,” said Zahra.

“I had so much love to give, but no one to give it to. My rainbow babies have allowed me to share all my mom love with them, plus express the love I have for my angel.”

For Morgan’s birth, Rebecca was gifted personalized “rainbow baby” shirts for each of her children. It meant a lot to her older children to be included in the celebration of their little brother Morgan’s arrival, as they too were affected by the loss of their little brother Tucker. “The kids lost a sibling,” reminds Rebecca.

“We now talk to Rylan about her big sister, Bailey, all the time,” added Taylor.

“Rylan will always know who her big sister is and the impact she has on so many lives. We hope that when Rylan is older and understands more, she will always

include her sister when asked about her siblings.”

And it is the great impact of suffering such a loss that makes welcoming a rainbow baby a truly unique experience.

A blend of mourning the child lost, anticipating a new life, anxious over the unknown, and the fear that others will forget about your child who was taken too soon.

“One of our greatest fears is we don’t want anyone to forget our son,” said Michele (mother to angel baby Derek and rainbow baby Hailey). “I love my daughter Hailey with all my heart; she expanded my heart, just as my son Derek did. Having her is the light at the end of my dark tunnel, but it doesn’t mean for one second that I don’t miss my baby son any less, or that I didn’t wish he was here every single day.”

For resources regarding infant loss, the families in this piece suggest the following: Sharing Parents of Sacramento, sharingparents.org; Molly Bears, www. mollybears.org; Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep, www.nowilaymedowntosleep.org, and Angel Gowns.

Amber Pryor is a Sacramento area mom, freelance writer, former educator, volunteer, and philanthropist with a focus on issues involving children’s welfare both locally and globally. She is an avid traveler, aspiring foodie, and loves to spend quality time with family and friends.

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Imagine All the People

By Mali Anderson

As parents, we want our children’s lives to be better than our own. We envision them obtaining advanced degrees, competing in international contests and swimming through the social waters many of us drowned in. It’s normal for parents to feel this way. Which is why, although I spent hours playing with my imaginary friend ‘Jenny’ when I was a girl, I was caught off guard when introduced to my daughter’s ‘sister.’ My daughter is an only child. Her ‘sister’ is an imaginary friend.

I immediately wondered what I was doing wrong. Maybe my daughter wasn’t having enough play dates? Or I hadn’t been playing enough dollhouse?

My fears ran the merry-go-round of motherly worries from the choice to breastfeed or not, to the decision to work or stay home. The ‘sister’ had pushed my insecure mother buttons.

Seeking solace, I turned to research. And, thankfully, it turns out there is no reason to fear imaginary friends. They can be an important and healthy part of a child’s development.

“Time spent with an imaginary friend helps build language development and social skills through simulated social exchanges,” says Dr. Alisa Miller Beyer, Assistant Professor of Psychology at Dominican University. “Research has shown that children with imaginary friends share richer narratives about stories and personal experiences, have more complex sentence formation and heightened social skills.”

Below are a few insights I’ve discovered about imaginary friends, who they are, how they help and when they say goodbye.

WHO’S COMING TO DINNER? Imaginary friends are unique to each child. Some are imagined people or animals, while other children adopt a character from a book or a favorite doll into their fantasy play. These companions serve a variety of purposes; they can be a playmate, an enemy or a creative outlet, all relationships that function to practice social skills.

“Imaginary friends almost always show up when a child is having downtime, relaxed time or private space. This free time, where there are no distractions such as activities, sports, schedule, computer games or television, allow a child to relax in to his or her imagination. Explore a fantasy world. This kind of right brain or intuitive activity is extraordinary for today’s children. So much of a child’s day is now scheduled, slotted and organized. The ‘downtime’ that a child experiences while communicating with imaginary friends opens up a whole new part of his or her brain, and allows a whole new type of thinking to come in,” explains Sara Wiseman, mother of four and author of “Your Psychic Child.”

As adults, we forget that for children the world is a foreign land. To navigate, explore and discover, young children play with identities. They are artists, scientists, explorers and philosophers and imaginary friends back up their discoveries and theories. Some children create support systems while others craft imagined competitors.

“Some imaginary companions are not friendly at all. For some, it is an imagined rival that helps push them to achieve more.

Some create mean imaginary companions that bully them into confronting their fears,” explains Dr. Espen Klausen, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist.

THE MORE THE MERRIER. Current research shows that inventing a friend is one creative outlet among many. Researchers are shying away from the concept of imaginary companions being a sign of advanced creativity and disregard the idea, popular decades ago, of fantasy friends being an indicator of emotional problems. Imaginative play, in all forms, is an essential part of childhood.

Whether it’s building a fort, creating a mud pie, fashioning an outfit from beach towels or building a Lego universe, creative expression is shown throughout a child’s day. But if fantasy friends exist, what are the benefits?

Imaginary continued on page 27

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AUGUST Behind the Scenes at Blackberry Creek Farm Back to School, Are You Ready?

The Buzz on Coffee Summer Fun Count Down!

CONNECTING FAMILIES FOR 25 YEARS

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

www.SacramentoParent.com

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25 years

Imaginary continued from page 25

Beyer says, “Children with imaginary friends can be more cooperative and have more positive affect in their play. Interactions with imaginary friends give them opportunities to rehearse scenarios going on with peers.”

It has also been deduced that children with imaginary companions may be more verbal than their peers who play without made-up pals.

“Although children who have imaginary companions may be just as creative as children who do not, they may be somewhat better than other children at conveying their creativity in an understandable and recognizable way to adults. This does not appear to be because having an imaginary companion makes children more intelligent, but is likely because children who have a higher verbal intelligence may be more likely to have an imaginary companion,” explains Klausen.

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.

WHERE DID THEY GO? One quality imaginary companions have in common, despite their varying personalities, humorous traits and flaws, is that they eventually disappear. For some it is a gradual fade while others die abruptly. But either way, there comes a day when parents realize the fantasy playmate they heard about for months, or possibly years, is no longer discussed. Most children, finished with their creation, move on without a fuss. Ironically parents, even those who were leery of the imaginary friend to begin with, often miss their children’s companions the most.

Marta Suarez, Executive Director marta@onlylovechildrenscenter.com

“The imaginary companion has often become a member of the family. Many parents are used to reserving a seat at the table, and may even have set out a plate. The imaginary companion may have been on many family trips, and there are often memories attached to them. They may regularly have enjoyed hearing their child interact with this imagined friend, yet suddenly, and outside the parents’ control, this ‘family member’ disappeared,” continues Klausen.

Although the transition can feel abrupt to adults, it is usually smooth for the child. They’ve learned what they needed to learn and have grown to enjoy other interests. Hopefully they will be better prepared for the world that awaits them, trained by the wild adventures and exploits of an imaginary world.

So, for now, I’ll enjoy the tales of my daughter’s imaginary ‘sister.’ Endearing and entertaining, the ‘sister’ travels the world, battles mean kids and has taught my three-year-old to drive a car. (I won’t let my daughter behind the wheel, despite her insistence of having mastered the skill.) I smile listening to ‘sister’ tales, remembering, and missing, my old friend ‘Jenny.’

Mali Anderson is a writer from Chicago. She treasures her friends and is always up for good conversation.

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Preventing Confusion About Concussions

By Lara Krupicka When my teenage daughter came off the soccer field at the end of a game complaining of a headache, I brushed it off.

Even when she mentioned another player had hit her in the head during a scuffle for the ball. The blow had been mild enough not to disrupt play, so I gave her Ibuprofen and encouraged her to rest. When the headache persisted, I chalked it up to migraine tendencies.

Imagine my grief and guilt when four days later the school athletic trainer diagnosed her with a concussion. I couldn't understand how I missed the signs.

I'm not the first mom to be blindsided by a child's concussion. Due to the myriad of myths surrounding this condition, it often takes parents by surprise. In fact, the Congress of Neurological Surgeons (CNS) states that concussion remains the most underreported, underdiagnosed head injury.

To help you avoid mistaking or mistreating your child's condition, should he suffer a bump to the head, I've unmasked six common concussion myths:

MYTH: You can tell right away when someone has a concussion. They'll vomit and have a bad headache.

FACT: Symptoms can take hours or even days to appear. And because each brain is different, reactions to the injury vary from child to child. (see sidebar for common symptoms) Symptoms also differ between boys and girls. A study in the Journal of Athletic Training found that both boys and girls report headaches after a concussion. But boys more often experience amnesia and confusion or disorientation, while girls may describe themselves as being drowsy or sensitive to noise.

MYTH: You have to be knocked unconscious for it to be a concussion.

FACT: According to the CNS, only about 10% of concussion-inducing blows cause the person to black out. And a concussion can occur even without a direct 28 JULY 2017 sacramentoparent.com O Celebrating

blow to the head. An impact to another part of the body, such as a hard fall, can sometimes jar the head enough to cause the brain to come in contact with the skull's interior. It is this internal collision that causes the injury.

MYTH: Don't let a concussed person fall asleep.

FACT: We've long heard that you should rouse a person every few hours after they've experienced a hit to the head to prevent a coma. In reality, after suffering a concussion your child can (and should) be allowed to sleep. His brain requires rest to begin healing.

However, it is a good idea to keep an eye on your child for the first day or two to watch for the appearance of new behaviors and symptoms, or a decrease in functioning that could require an emergency room visit.

25 years

MYTH: A concussion is "no big deal." Kids should just shake it off.

FACT: A concussion is also known as a mild traumatic brain injury. Not only is it unwise for your child to continue in sports-related activities while recovering from a concussion, she may also need to cut back on mental stimulation.

Among the Center for Disease Control's (CDC) recommendations for concussion patients are that they: Get plenty of sleep at night, and rest during the day.

Avoid physically demanding activities (e.g., sports or working out) or those requiring much concentration (e.g., sustained computer use, reading).

The CDC suggests kids not return to activities until they can engage in them without symptoms returning and to slowly increase the level of activity. For

some kids it may mean a reduction in school hours, homework amounts, or both.

The American Association of Pediatrics offers a helpful form your pediatrician can complete to direct the school on accommodations to be made should your child have a concussion. You can find it online at: http://www.aap.org/ en-us/about-the-aap/Committees-Councils-Sections/Council-on-sports-medicine-and-fitness/Documents/returntoschool.pdf MYTH: Only football and hockey players sustain concussions.

FACT: According to the American Academy of Neurology (AAN), football and rugby top the list of sports where boys are most susceptible to concussion, followed by hockey and soccer. Girls face the greatest risk of concussion while playing soccer and basketball.

For younger children (birth to 9 years), bicycling and playground activities account for the greatest number of head injuries, including concussions.

MYTH: As long as my child wears a

Symptoms of Concussion:

helmet, he won't get a concussion.

DAZED LOOK

FACT: Helmets prevent skull fractures, not concussions. While a padded helmet or other protective device may lessen the impact to your child's cranium, none of them can stop the forces of motion that cause internal brain impact. The AAN encourages parents to make sure their child's helmet fits well and is kept in good condition to reduce the risk of concussion.

With a better understanding of concussions, you can be more aware of what you're seeing (and what to do) if one happens to your child or another child in your care. Because concussion is more than just a headache - for you and your child.

DISORIENTATION OR CONFUSION DECREASED BALANCE, COORDINATION OR REACTION TIME MEMORY LOSS NAUSEA AND OR/ VOMITING SLURRED SPEECH DIZZINESS BLURRY OR DOUBLE VISION HEADACHE SLEEP PROBLEMS (TOO MUCH OR TOO LITTLE SLEEP) SENSITIVITY TO LIGHT OR SOUND This list is not exhaustive.

Check out the CDC's Heads Up to Parents site for more information at http://www.headsupparents.org.

Lara Krupicka is a parenting journalist and mom to three girls, all of whom have suffered concussions.

Because she deserves more than earning credit without learning.

Pacific Charter Institute’s NEW MyHELM.org Free, Public School Choice for 6 th -12 th Grades More individualization, more real teacher support Accredited (WASC, UC, NCAA) College prep & college credit options Technology, Fieldtrips, & Activities We bring the support to you.

Ph. 866-992- 9033 NewEnrollment@pacificcharters.org Homeschool Guild Program also offered for TK-12 th

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Now Enrolling for Summer & Fall The Granite Bay Schoolhouse offers children the right environment to Learn, Play and Grow. We teach children to love to learn! Through literature-based projects, hands-on math curriculum and a loving environment, our goal is to provide children the right fundamentals to be successful in school.

8265 Sierra College Blvd #322 Roseville, CA 95661 www.granitebayschoolhouse.com 30 JULY 2017 sacramentoparent.com O Celebrating

25 years

EDUCATION & ENRICHMENT

2017 Summer Guide to Education + Enrichment EDUCATION Capital Christian School 916-865-5600 | Sacramento www.CCSCougars.org Carden School of Sacramento 916-488-1313 | Sacramento www.CardenSac.com CCHAT Center 916-361-7290 | Sacramento www.CCHATSacramento.org Child Development Incorporated (CDI/CDC) 916-286-7865 | Multiple Locations www.CdiCdc.org The Gift of Kids 916-521-1835 | El Dorado Hills www.TheGiftofKids.net Granite Bay Montessori 916-791-7849 | Roseville, Granite Bay www.GBMontessori.com Granite Bay Schoolhouse 916-791-2999 | Granite Bay www.GraniteBaySchoolhouse.com Horizon Charter Schools 916-408-5200 | Multiple Locations www.HorizonCharterSchools.org K12 866-339-6787 | Greater Sacramento www.K12.com/ca Little Folks University 916-985-7055 | Folsom www.LittleFolksU.com Little Sunshine's Playhouse & Preschool 916-605-0217 | Granite Bay www.LittleSunshine.com Live Oak Waldorf School 916-316-1271 | Meadow Vista www.LiveOakWaldorf.org Jesuit High School 916-480-6060 | Carmichael www.JesuitHighSchool.org Merryhill School 877-959-4187 | Multiple Locations www.DiscoverMerryhill.com Natomas Charter School 916-419-3788 | Sacramento www.Pact.NatomasCharter.org Natomas Christian School 916-246-3320 | Sacramento www.NCSLions.com Only Love Children’s Center 916-920-8724 | Sacramento www.www.onlylove-children.com

Ottoman Elementary, An Artful Learning School 916-986-2228 | Orangevale www.SanJuan.edu/ArtfulLearning Pacific Charter Institute 866-992-9033 | Multiple Locations www.PacificCharters.org Sacramento Valley Charter 916-596-6422 | Sacramento www.SacValleyCharter.org Sacramento Waldorf School 916-860-2518 | Sacramento www.SacWaldorf.org St. Mark’s Lutheran School 916-961-7891 | Citrus Heights www.School.StMarksLutheran.com St. Robert Catholic School 916-452-2111 | Sacramento www.StRobertSchool.org Visions In Education, TK-12 Public Charter School 877-971-7037 | Multiple Locations www.viedu.org

ENRICHMENT Actors Theatre of Sacramento 916-501-6104 | Sacramento www.ActInSac.com Amazing Animal World 916-751-8923 | Greater Sacramento www.AmazingAnimalWorld.com Bounce Spot 916-371-2386 | West Sacramento www.TheBounceSpot.com Byers Gymnastics 916-781-2939 | Roseville, Citrus Heights www.ByersRoseville.com California State Railroad Museum Foundation 916-323-9280 | Sacramento www.CSRMF.org Crocker Art Museum Art Classes 916-808-7000 | Sacramento www.CrockerArtMuseum.org Fairytale Town 916-808-7462 | Sacramento www.FairytaleTown.org Fast Track Hobbies 916-784-1722 | Rocklin www.FTHobbies.com Funderland 916-456-0131 | Sacramento www.FunderlandPark.com Granite Arch 916-852-7625 | Rancho Cordova www.GraniteArch.com

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Where MATH makes sense • Personalized curriculum • One-on-one instruction • Kids love it!

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We strive to give students the opportunity to excel in Academics, Athletics and the Arts.

Call to schedule a campus visit today!

Summer Day Camp

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Reduced Weekly Rates • Extended Childcare Included Meet new friends and enjoy lots of fun activities that will interest everyone. A variety of subjects and topics presented throughout summer, including: • Science • Computers • Games • Crafts • Academic Programs for Reading & Math • Sports Program

Camp activities will help students strengthen both academic and athletic skills over the summer months while having a great time!

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EDUCATION & ENRICHMENT ENRICHMENT -CON’T Mad Science of Sacramento Valley 916-779-0390 | Sacramento www.Sacramento.MadScience.org Mathnasium 916-967-6222 | Multiple Locations www.Mathnasium.com Sacramento Public Library 916-264-2920 | Sacramento www.SacLibrary.org Sacramento State Aquatic Center 916-278-2842 | Gold River www.SacStateAquaticCenter.com Sacramento Theatre Company 916-446-7501 | Sacramento www.SacTheatre.org Tricks 916-791-4496 | Granite Bay 916-351-0024 | Folsom 916-481-4496 | Sacramento www.TricksGym.com World of Wonders Science Museum 209-368-0969 | Lodi www.WowScienceMuseum.org

BYERS GYMNASTICS

Don’t miss out on our upcoming camps this summer!

June 26-30 • Safari Week July 10-14 • Bug Week July 17-21 • Hawaii Week July 24-28 • Space Week July 31-Aug. 4 • Super Hero Week

www.byersroseville.com

Granite Bay Montessori

Providing a personalized academic journey for ages 2 years to 8th grade.

Affordable Tuition-Based Private Montessori School Open 7:00 am - 6:30 pm Low Student Teacher Ratio (12:1)

CALL NOW FOR A TOUR! 9330 Sierra College Blvd., Roseville, CA 95661 (916) 791-7849

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

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saturday

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

Leap, learn, build and celebrate all month long! Don’t forget to check Sacra mentoParent.com for more fa mily fun and local adventures!

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Play with Clay!

International Celebration

Fireworks & Freedom Concert

2pm at South Natomas Library

11am at Fairytale Town

6pm at El Dorado Hills Town Center

Explore what you can make with clay.

All materials will be provided. www.SacLibrary.org

Enjoy dances from around the world, including ballet folklorico, Cambodian ballet, and more. Free with admission. www.FairytaleTown.org

Enjoy live music, food trucks, vendors, a kids zone with bounce houses, face painting, balloon artists, and a DJ. It starts at 8pm and will conclude with a spectacular fireworks display. www.EDHTownCenter.com

8 Community Campout 12pm at Elk Grove Park

Enjoy campground favorites including swimming, crafts, campfire songs and s’mores. Plus, Dinner and breakfast prepared by the Elk Grove Lions Club. www.YourCSD.com/387/ Community-Campout

15 9am at Historic Folsom Farmers Market

Free kids crafts, games, and prizes, raffle prizes, a peach eating contest, Peach Walk, Best Peach Dessert Contest and more! www.BeMoneySmartUSA.org/ peach-festival Folsom Pro Rodeo 6pm at Dan Russell Rodeo Arena

This patriotic event offers family fun with non-stop rodeo action, outstanding nightly fireworks, mutton busting, a high American flag which arrives by skydiver and much more! www.FolsomProRodeo.com ​ 4​ th of July Roseville Parade, Games & Firework Fun All day at Royer Park, Roseville

Join the Roseville Crime Stoppers at 7:20am (10K) or 7:45am (5k) to kick off the 4th of July celebration with your family, neighbors and friends. The parade begins at 9am, then stick around for carnival games, bounce houses, food vendors, music and more! www.Roseville.ca.us

ALL MONTH LONG...

July 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28

22 Autism-Friendly Family Movie: “The LEGO Batman Movie” 10am at Sylvan Oaks Library

Safetyville USA’s Annual Free Family Bike Nights is a great way to enjoy a night out with the family. www.SafetyCenter.org

Skinks, blue bellies, and alligator lizards, oh my! What make these cold-blooded critters so amazing? www.SacNatureCenter.net

9 Sunday Playday A gallery-based, art-making experience to support school readiness.

Children ages 4 to 6 and caregivers will participate in a make-and-take project using a variety of art materials. www.CrockerArt.org Whoooo’s There? OWLS! 1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center

Meet an owl and get an eye-opening look at these incredible hunters. www.SacNatureCenter.net

Family Campout

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5:30pm at Fairytale Town

This overnight adventure includes a theater show, arts and crafts, a scavenger hunt, games, and stories. Wake up to a light continental breakfast. www.FairytaleTown.org

29 Carnival of Science 10am at World of Wonders Science Museum, Lodi

Join this summer send off celebration with a science twist! Play games & win prizes! www.WowScienceMuseum.org

An adventure and obstacle course event for kids ages 5 to 16, with fun and challenging obstacles and lots of mud! A free family adventure! www.KidsObstacleChallenge.com/ sacramento

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Rancho Cordova Fourth of July 4pm at Hagan Park

A signature event for the community that features concerts, carnival, food, a kids zone, a beer garden, exhibits, a parade, a 5K run, and a spectacular fireworks show. www.CordovaCouncil.org

17 Sacratomato Week (7/17-22) 4pm at The Sutter District

Sutter District eateries and watering holes will once again celebrate Sacramento’s signature commodity, the tomato! Enjoy creative menu options, drink specials and more. www.ExploreMidTown.org

16 Kids & Company Gallery Adventure

8:30am at Granite Regional Park 5:30pm at Safetyville USA

1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center

A family movie event for kids with autism and/or sensory disorders. The lights will be slightly up, the sound will be slightly down, and kids don’t need to remain seated. www.SacLibrary.org

Kids Obstacle Challenge ​​Family Bike Nights

Leapin’ Lizard

10:30am at Crocker Art Museum

Peach Festival

JULY 1-3

monday

sunday

10:30am at Crocker Art Museum

Introduce art to children ages 5 and older (and adults who tag along) in a fun and playful manner. www.CrockerArt.org

Sketch It 11am at Crocker Art Museum

Visitors ages 5 and older can sketch while receiving drawing instruction.

No experience necessary (supplies provided). www.CrockerArt.org

Community Campout-July 8th

30 Cat & the Fiddle Music Festival 11am at Fairytale Town

Celebrate music with a two-day festival. Enjoy rockin’ daytime concerts on the Mother Goose Stage each day.

Free with paid park admission. www.FairytaleTown.org

Kids Obstacle Challenge-July 29th

tuesday

friday

thursday

wednesday

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Carmichael’s Fourth of July Firework Show

Sensory Art for Families

Junior Chefs with Food Literacy

Family Friday

4:30pm at Arcade Library

4pm at North Highlands-Antelope Library

11am at Crocker Art Museum

7:30pm at La Sierra Community Center

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

Using plastic knives designed for kid chefs, children will learn and practice knife safety and techniques to make a recipe. They will read, “Julia Child” by Kyo Maclear. www.SacLibrary.org

Explore a different artistic material with interactive artist demonstrations, performances, and creations to take home. Designed for a range of abilities and learning styles, with multisensory activities, picnic areas, and a Double Digit Clubhouse for kids 10 and up. www.CrockerArt.org

Food, music, arts and crafts, fun with bubbles and more. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and enjoy fireworks at dark. www.CarmichaelPark.com InterDependence Day 10am at Southside Park

As a California-inspired upgrade to Independence Day, this event will celebrate diversity, inclusion, innovation, social justice and civic participation within the community. www.InterDependenceDaySac. com/#interdependence-day Military Appreciation Day 11am at Funderland Park

Funderland would like to give a great big thank you to all those who have served or are currently serving in the Military by offering a FREE day of riding for that service member and their family. www.FunderlandPark.com Raley Field’s Fourth on the Field 6pm at Raley Field

Independence Day at Raley Field includes a spectacular fireworks show, food trucks, live music, games and contests, and much more. www1.ticketmaster.com/ event/1C005294B263E0FB

19 Balloon Magic with a Classic Twist 4pm at Arden-Dimick Library

Watch and learn balloon magic tricks with Magician Jonathan Lopez! Open to kids and their adults. www.SacLibrary.org Don O’Brian: Xtreme Science 2pm at Carmichael Library

A fast-moving, interactive, upbeat show that mixes entertainment with information. Children under age 8 must be accompanied by an adult. www.SacLibrary.org

26 The Three Little Pigs with Puppet Art Theater 5pm at Arden-Dimick Library

Straw, sticks, bricks, and a huffing and puffing Big Bad Wolf add up to hilarity and mayhem in this adaptation of this classic story. www.SacLibrary.org

Rancho Cordova 4th of July 5K 9am at Mills Middle School

Teen Tuesday: Art Studio

2pm at Isleton Library

Get creative using different materials to design your own art piece. For children ages 5 to 12. www.SacLibrary.org Singing Their Way to Literary Success 11am at North Sacramento-Hagginwood Library

A fun musical experience by Alan Candee. Young children will contribute to the creation of stories and songs, and enjoy folk songs, storytelling and original tunes. www.SacLibrary.org

Use a variety of materials to make a unique work of art. Materials provided free, or you can bring your own.

Open to ages 13 to 19. www.SacLibrary.org

California State Fair (7/14-7/30) Through the 30th at Cal Expo

This year’s California State Fair is all about the blue ribbon and celebrating everything that makes California “The Best!” www.CaStateFair.org Friday Family Fest 6pm At The Historical Train Depot Plaza, Loomis

20 Music and Dance to the Rhythms of India

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4pm at Arcade Library

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

11am at North Sacramento-Hagginwood Library

California State Fair-July 14-30

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Enjoy live music, vendors, food, beer, wine, and many activities for kids; like bounce houses, face painting, a splash pad, and arts & crafts. www.LoomisChamber.com/ friday-night-family-fest

The Blue Bird of Happiness

3pm at Sylvan Oaks Library

“The Amazing Little Old Man and the Search for The Blue Bird of Happiness” includes lots of juggling and audience participation. Izzi Tooinsky guides kids and families on an imaginative journey. www.SacLibrary.org

SacParent EDfair 4pm at Palladio, Folsom

A free community event showcasing the Sacramento area’s wide array of educational and enrichment programs along with family friendly entertainment! Plus, our first ever Cover Kid Search for children ages 5 to 12. www.SacramentoParent.com Outdoor Summer Movie 7:30pm at the Rizal Community Center

In partnership with the Southgate Recreation and Parks District, enjoy an outdoor movie on the backstage.

They will be showing, “A Dog’s Purpose”. www.SacLibrary.org

28 Ice Cream Family Splash 5:30pm at Fruitridge Community Center

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Fruitridge Aquatic Center invites families to enjoy all-you-can-eat ice cream sundaes and swimming, a perfect summer evening! www.SouthGateRecAndPark.net

Baby Loves Art 10:30am at Crocker Art Museum

Baby Loves Art engages babies 0 to 18 months in a visually stimulating gallery walk and gives parents and caregivers a fun opportunity to connect with their babies and each other. www.CrockerArt.org

Collage Art

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Celebrate family, friends, fireworks and this great nation! The run/walk will precede the 4th of July Parade, so people will be lining the streets to cheer you on! www.RanchoCordovaJuly4th.com

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Amazing Animal World will be at SacParent EDFair-July 21st

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calendar/shows

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

9 to 5

July 25-30 at Wells Fargo Pavilion A hilarious story of friendship and revenge in the office place, based on the hit 1980 movie, featuring the Tony Award-nominated score by Dolly Parton including the Grammy Award-winning title song. www.SacramentoMusicCircus.com

Bye Bye Birdie

July 21-July 30 at Davis Musical Theatre Company When the draft selects rock star Conrad Birdie, his fans are devastated, but none more than struggling songwriter Albert Peterson, whose song Birdie was just about to record. Albert’s longtime girlfriend, Rosie, pushes Albert to write a new tune that Birdie will perform on television to a fan selected in a contest. The scheme works, with young Ohio teenager Kim McAfee declared the winner, but no one counted on Kim’s boyfriend. www.DMTC.org

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast

July 15-23 at Fairytale Town The Fairytale Town Troupers invite you to “be their guest” for this special adaptation of the classic Disney animated film! Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” features the unforgettable songs and characters of the animated classic brought to life-plus the beautiful and timeless love story we all know and love. Performances will be held in the Children’s Theater. www.FairytaleTown.org

Guinness World Records™ Live!

Now through August 14 at Gilroy Gardens Enjoy an action-packed show providing interactive experiences throughout the park! The show will run daily at the Lakeside Amphitheater and at each performance, the audience will learn about the science of record breaking and have the opportunity to practice, attempt, and even break actual records in real time onstage. www.GilroyGardens.org

Hansel and Gretel

July 1-2 at Fairytale Town Presented by Puppet Art Theater! Gretel overhears her stepmother convince her father to lead she and her brother into the forest and leave them there for good. Hansel’s plan to leave a trail of breadcrumbs to find their way home fails miserably, and he and Gretel are left in the forest, where they discover a house made of Gingerbread. Little did they know the house belongs to a Wicked Old 38 JULY 2017 sacramentoparent.com O Celebrating

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Witch. Will Hansel and Gretel escape the Witch and find their way home? www.FairytaleTown.org

Les Misérables School Edition

July 21-30 at El Dorado Musical Theatre Epic, grand, and uplifting, Les Misérables School Edition packs an emotional wallop that has thrilled audiences all over the world. Winner of over 100 international awards and seen by over 65 million people worldwide, Les Misérables is an epic and uplifting story about the survival of the human spirit. www.HarrisCenter.net

On the Town

July 11-16 at Wells Fargo Pavilion Three sailors on a 24-hour shore leave in New York City find three high-spirited women in an unforgettable adventure. The soaring score by Leonard Bernstein features “Lonely Town” and “New York, New York.” www.CaliforniaMusicalTheatre.com

Shakespeare’s Comedy of Errors

July 15-23 at Free Fall Stage One of Shakespeare’s most well-known comedies, Comedy of Errors tells the story of Aegeon of Syracuse who has come to Ephesus to seek his son, who went in search of his missing twin and mother months ago. Unfortunately, Ephesus has just declared war on Syracuse, and will instantly put to death any Syracusan found within their borders unless a ransom is paid. Meanwhile, the son, Antipholus, and his servant, Dromio (also an identical twin), keep running into strangers who seem to know them. www.FreeFallStage.com

Willy Wonka

July 7-16 at El Dorado Musical Theatre Mysterious candy manufacturer Willy Wonka stages a contest by hiding five golden tickets in five of his scrumptious candy bars. These tickets win a free tour of the Wonka factory, as well as a lifetime supply of candy. Four of the five winning children are insufferable brats. The fifth is a likeable boy named Charlie Bucket who takes the tour with his equally amiable grandfather. Come take a fantasy ride into the land of pure imagination! www.HarrisCenter.net

calendar/exhibits

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

Full Spectrum Now through October 8 at Crocker Art Museum

Raimonds Staprans paintings showcase the landscape and architecture of the Golden State. Taut contours and bold hues define fields, marinas, isolated trees, and architecture, all devoid of people, while scorching sunlight descends from skies of the deepest blue. His still lifes of fruit, artist materials, and chairs share this pervasive loneliness, quality of light, and rich color. www.CrockerArt.org Patient No More: People with Disabilities Securing Civil Rights July 11 - November 5 at California Museum

Developed by San Francisco State University’s Paul K. Longmore Institute on Disability and currently on a nationwide tour by Exhibit Envoy, the exhibit explores the significant events in California history that led to the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act in 1990. Its presentation coincides with the 40th anniversary of the Section 504 Occupation, a 26-day sit-in demonstration by 150 disability rights activists at San Francisco’s Federal Building in 1977. www.CaliforniaMuseum.org Realism July 1 - 26 at Elk Grove Fine Arts Center

Steve Wilson is a metal sculptor who says, “My art comes from my heart, through my head, and to my hands.” His main medium is sheet steel with copper, brass, and silicone bronze accents. Katrina Ernst is a representational oil painter. She has an amazing ability to show the translucence of light, saying this about her paintings, “While on the surface my paintings celebrate the reflection of light and color of everyday objects, they reveal the context of our times, the feelings and emotions of the people around me, and my own inner reflections.” www.ElkGroveFineArtsCenter.org Trains, Planes, and Automobiles Exhibit Through August 3 at Fe Gallery

Join Fe Gallery for an artist opening reception presenting works inspired by planes, trains and automobiles.

The show will feature artists Jim Marxen, Camilo Valencia, Kevin Wilhite, as well as reclaimed metal sculptures Garrett Winiecke and Sean Bailey. www.FeGallery.com

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Hello Summer Nights!

The summer fun must go on!

By Christine Quarry

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

TUESDAYS

ROSEVILLE DOWNTOWN TUESDAY NIGHTS

5pm at Vernon Street Town Square, Roseville www.DownTownRosevilleEvents.com

THURSDAYS

FAIR OAKS CONCERTS IN THE PARK

6:30 at Village Park, Fair Oaks www.FairOaksPark.org

FRIDAYS

CITY OF FOLSOM FRIDAY CONCERTS

7pm at Folsom City Lions Park www.Folsom.ca.us

Head the the square for 2 stages of live music, delicious food, wine, beer, and a fun kid zone with family entertainment.

Concerts in the Park are a free series of concerts for the Fair Oaks Community. It’s an opportunity for families to come together to enjoy a relaxing summer evening in the park.

Folsom City Lions Park provides shade and plenty of room for kids and the young at heart. Bring a picnic, lawn chairs and blankets for some live music in the park!

July 11 JOURNEY REVISITED

July 6 JIM ANDERSON & THE REBELS

July 7 LEGAL ADDICTION

Tribute to Journey July 18 LOCKED & LOADED + TERRY SHEETS BAND

Country & Rock July 25 PABLO CRUISE

Pop/Rock Band

WEDNESDAYS

PALLADIO SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

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

July 5 GWEN IN DOUBT

Gwen Stefani Tribute July 12 HIP SERVICE

Dance Party Extravaganza July 19 POP ROCKS

High Energy Dance July 26 SWIFT COUNTRY

Tribute to Taylor Swift

Rock July 14 HAVE MERCY Rock July 21 TODD MORGAN & THE EMBLEMS Jazz/Pop July 28 ISLAND OF BLACK & WHITE Reggae

Elvis Tribute July 13 THE LINCOLN HIGHWAY BAND Country/Rockabilly July 20 TOM RIGNEY & FLAMBEAU

Cajun, Zydeco, New Orleans Tunes July 27 MAD DASH

Classic Rock 50’s-80’s

SUMMER CONCERTS IN THE PARK

GATHER

7pm at El Dorado Hills Community Park www.ElDoradoHillsCSD.org

5pm at Quarry Park, Rocklin www.GatherNights.com Inspired by the warm California nights and the emerging trend of food culture, GATHER is a take on the city as a dining table. Join the fun July 27 for this unique event including communal tables for outdoor dining, artisanal food vendors, designers, food demos, interactive art, live music and a modular kids park.

Free friday night concerts at the community park.

Live music, food, bounce houses, and children’s activities.

July 14 ISLAND OF BLACK & WHITE

Acoustic Rock, Funky Reggae & Soulful Blues July 28 MIKE FURLONG’S

Tribute to Tom Petty

FREE MOVIE FRIDAYS!

7pm at Kathy Lund Park www.Rocklin.ca.us

The City of Rocklin is proud to announce some of the biggest box office hits for you to enjoy! Cozy up on your blankets or low profile chairs and enjoy a free movie under the stars! Get there around 7 pm to get a good seat and listen to all the great music, the movie will begin after dark at around 9 pm.

Admission is free!

July 7 FINDING DORY

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WEEKENDS

FIRST FRIDAY STREET FAIR

6pm at The Fountains, Roseville www.FountainsAtRoseville.com

6:30pm at Daniel Bishop Memorial Pavilion www.CarmichaelPark.com

Party Down Main Street! Stop by July 7th to enjoy crafters, artisans, car shows, and a variety of activities for the kids in the Kids Zone. Plus a few surprises along the way. It’s a great night out for the whole family!

Bring your family, friends, blanket and lawn chairs for a fun evening of free music in the park. Pack a picnic basket or choose from a variety of foods for purchase as you soak in these summer nights.

July 8 DENNIS JOHNSON & THE MISSISSIPPI

DOWNTOWN SACRAMENTO CONCERTS IN THE PARK

RAMBLERS

Americana, Roots, Rockin’ July 9 CARMICHAEL KIWANIS SWING BAND

30’s, 40’s & 50’s Music July 15 JACKSON STONE BAND

Hard Driving, Southern Rock July 22 HOWELL DEVINES

Shack Shakin’, Delta & Hill Country Blues July 29 THE GOLDEN CADILLACS

Country Rock, Americana, Soul

5pm at Cesar Chavez Plaza, Sacramento www.GoDowntownSac.com With close to 6,000 fans gathering in the heart of the city to see local and nationally touring artists and downtown Sac’s hottest DJs spinning between sets, Concerts in the Park (CIP) is the ultimate destination for Friday night happy hour!

July 7 ARDEN PARK ROOTS, OUR PEOPLE,

July 1 POINTDEXTER

CARMICHAEL CONCERTS IN THE PARK

JETTE, DJ RATED R

July 14 R.LUM.R, JOYZU, TROPHII, THE PHILHAR-

MONIK, JOHN REYES July 21 JOY & MADNESS, IDEATEAM, MIKEY LP

& THE KROOKS, JOSEPH ONE

FOUNTAINS SATURDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES

8pm at The Fountains, Roseville www.FountainsAtRoseville.com

LANGUAGE

Pop, Rock, Funk, Indie Alternative

July 8 KENNY FRYE BAND

Country July 15 FROBECK

Funk, Rock July 22 LATIN TOUCH

Latin Music July 29 ROBBY JAMES & STS OF BAKERSFIELD Country

SATURDAY NIGHTS AT THE BARN PRESENTED BY OFF THE GRID MARKETS

5pm at the Barn, West Sacramento www.Facebook.com/offthegridsac/

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

TOWN SQUARE CONCERT SERIES 2017

Sing, Dance & Rock Out! Every Saturday night from June through September, we bring in headlining concerts to perform on our main stage. From Country to Rock, we have a full roster of bands lined up this summer.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

6:30pm at Vernon Street Town Square, Roseville www.Facebook.com/VernonStreetTownSquare Head out to the Square for free music, yummy food trucks and good summer fun!

July 15 THE 80’S ALLSTARS

80’s Rock & Funk

SPECIAL NEEDS

Put Your Family First

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

PARTY

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

855.581.0100

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

www.AutismBehaviorServices.com COUNSELING

MUSIC

Jennifer Baker, LMFT #97308 Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist

Happy Independence Day!

6518 Lonetree Blvd. #190 Rocklin, CA 95765

Award Winning Balloon Artist!!!

www.jbakerlmft.com

916-889-3682

(530) 867-5077 www.DillyDallyTheClown.com dillydallytheclown@yahoo.com

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