Sacramento Parent March 2018

parent March 2018

2018 GUIDE TO PRESCHOOLS INSIDE

Got Mud? sacramentoparent.com

TAKE TEN & PLAY, IT’S OKAY!

CAMP ISSUE

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MARCH 2018 sacramentoparent.com

sacramentoparent.com MARCH 2018

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parent

on our cover

March 2018

Meet Dillon and Wyatt, they’re 4 year-old twins and they’re inseparable. They have big imaginations and enjoy playing cars, board games, and LEGOs. Both boys are in gymnastics and are really excited to start school.

Photography by Kristina Martin Photography www.KristinaMartinPhotography.com

contents MARCH 2018

13 departments

9

FUN FINDS Basket-worthy Picks

19 CAMP

Ditch the Devices Before Summer Camp

17

25

features

around town

13 17 21 25

35 Egg Hunts 37 Let’s Go to the Library 38 CALENDAR

Mud: A Healthy Rx Horse Wonder Silly Songs While Doing Chores

Get Your Picky Eater to Eat More Foods

26

Play Breaks to Do with Your Preschooler

42

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day All Month

Learn, Explore, Play

40 SHOWS Classics & More

41 EXHIBITS Kids & Art

special advertising section

22

CAMP ISSUE 4

MARCH 2018 sacramentoparent.com

Organization Tips for Your Child with ADHD

29 2018 Guide to Preschools and Childcare

sacramentoparent.com MARCH 2018

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The value of a beautiful smile should never be underestimated!

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6

MARCH 2018 sacramentoparent.com

Expires 3/31/18

We’re celebrating spring and preschoolers, mixed in with Leprechauns, Dr. Seuss and Bunnies, too! Sounds like a dream issue for those with younger kiddos, and that’s just what we are going for this month!

If you’ve got a preschooler or a soon-to-be-preschooler, you’ll want to check out the guide on page 29. You’ll love the variety and options in the area. co-publisher | SUE LETO COLE co-publisher | SHELLY BOKMAN editor | SHANNON SMITH art directors | PATRICE VAN DAM

StudioPRDesign.com

JILL LENDAHL, JillLendahl.com contributing writers: Suzanne Koup-Larsen | Kerrie McLoughlin Pam Molnar | Laura Reagan Meagan Ruffing | Shannon Smith Ashley Talmadge | Diane Turner Maller contributing photographer: Kristina Martin Photography www.KristinaMartinPhotography.com advertising executives: RAYCHELL SARCOMO | (530) 889.6175 raychell@sacramentoparent.com LINDSAY TRENZ | (530) 889.6178 lindsay@sacramentoparent.com CHERYL WAPLES | (530) 889.6176 cheryl@sacramentoparent.com

BILLING QUESTIONS

Shelly Bokman | (530) 888.0573 shelly@sacramentoparent.com CALENDAR & WEBSITE calendar@sacramentoparent.com

Sure, the calendar is overflowing with fun, but remember that even the not-so-exciting activities don’t have to be a drag: try a silly song to keep everyone happy while doing chores or sneak in a 10-minute play break. The kids will love it and so will you, we’ve got lots of ideas inside, too!

Go have some fun this month!

“Look at me!

Look at me!

Look at me NOW! It is fun to have fun But you have to know how.”

– Dr. Seuss, “The Cat in the Hat”

EVENTS events@sacramentoparent.com

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

Sacramento Parent magazine welcomes letters, articles, artwork and photos from our readers. Sacramento Parent is not responsible for the return of unsolicited materials. All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without written permission.

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

sacramentoparent.com MARCH 2018

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SHOP . DINE . PLAY

CAMP BOW WOW DOGGY DAY CARE AND BOARDING

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

Bring this coupon and get

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Expires 3/31/18

Get Your First Day FREE! (interview day) Camp Bow Wow Elk Grove 9263 Bendel Place, Elk Grove, CA 95624 | campbowwow.com/elkgrove 916-685-4590 Valid only at Camp Bow Wow Elk Grove. New customers only. Camper must be spayed or neutered (if over 6 months) and be current on all vaccinations, including Rabies, Distemper and Bordetella. Offer not valid on holidays and cannot be combined with any other discount or package. CODE: SACPARENT_AD Expires 3/31/18

8

MARCH 2018 sacramentoparent.com

fun finds

Hop Into Spring with these Easter WIN Basket-Worthy Picks IT!

By Shannon Smith

Fun fact: Easter falls on April Fool’s Day this year! Although you may still thinking about that sneaky Leprechaun, it’s time to put on your bunny ears! If you’re looking to cut back on the candy this year, you’ll love these fun finds! And don’t fret if you didn’t find that pot of gold, you can head over to SacramentoParent.com and enter to win any of these…isn’t that sweeter than candy?

Dolce Spring Bunny

Watch as your baby explores the crinkle ears, rattle belly, removable carrot and learns new sensory and hand-eye coordination skills. It has beautifully designed textured and embroidered fabrics, ribbons, and a connected ring with the signature Dolce teether. www.Magformers.com/dolce.html

smART sketcher

Transform photos taken from smart devices into a sketch. By using the free smART sketcher app, photos are filtered and transferred via Bluetooth to the projector. Instantly, users will see their desired image projected onto paper. The smART sketcher also comes with pre-loaded micro SD cards that are filled with a variety of activities including step-by-step drawings, learn-to-write letters and numbers, and more. www.smARTsketcher.com

Breakaway Ballz

“Breakaway” from the ordinary with Breakaway Ballz™ Series 1. Catch ‘em, bounce ‘em, break ‘em! Each ball consists of 8 identically sized foam pieces that break apart when thrown against a hard surface, revealing a bouncy ball surprise inside. The identically sized pieces allow you to easily piece back together. For added play, kids can hide something inside. Collect all 6! www.AlexBrands.com

Brackitz Bugz Play Park

With over 20 Play Parks and Obstacles, the Brackitz Bugz Play Park lets your imagination go wild. Watch out for the tumbling towers, falling dominoes, barrel rolls, the crusher, and the tripod, just to name a few. This set comes with 47 pieces. www.Brackitz.com

Flower Maker Dough Set

Stamp! Grow! Arrange! This 21-piece set makes it simple for the youngest dough molder to arrange bountiful bouquets: 3 flower cutters (Petunia, Daisy, Zinnia), 3 flower stamps (Daisy, Hydrangea, Rose), 1 butterfly cutter, 1 extruder, 1 3D flower stand, 3 stems, 2 leaf molds, 3 flower plugs, 1 two-sided activity card, 3 dough tubs. www.GreenToys.com

Splish Splash Catapult

The rabbits are ready for a splish splash water fight with their catapult. Who has the skill to aim well and hit the rabbits with the water balloons? Every hit counts. Includes a cool wooden catapult! A lively water balloon flicking game for 2-5 players, ages 5 and up. www.HABAusa.com/splish-splash-catapult sacramentoparent.com MARCH 2018

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Prepare Your Kids to Ditch the Devices at Summer Camp

By Suzanne Koup-Larsen

Apps like Pokémon Go created a nightmare for camp directors a few summers ago. Staff, who hoped to create a tech-free summer camp experience ran headlong into a pop-culture trend that requires a smartphone.

While most camps set the expectation in advance that the summer camp experience will be device-free, it’s difficult for some kids to detach from their games and social-media habits. Kids want to take pictures, access social media and they just want to feel connected. Phones have become everything; maps, cameras and mini-computers.

“They miss the technology in theory, but once they’re at camp and having fun, it doesn’t matter that they’re away from it.”

-Karen Hogan, Mom You can help your child adjust to a techfree summer camp experience by using these tips to start preparing them at home.

• Talk to your kids in advance about ditching the devices, but with a positive approach to the change.

• Intentionally unplug for at least a few hours each day leading up to camp. This works best if the whole family, not just the camper, participates.

• You’ll ultimately enjoy having more time to engage with your kids, but be prepared for a few complaints and maybe even a few tantrums at home before they head off to camp.

Now that you’ve helped to wean them off their phones, how will they cope without technology at camp?

gy. Another important strategy is to find alternate ways for kids to communicate with their families. Camps usually prefer that parents call the camp office to check in on kids, rather than text kids directly.

Also, parents can write old-fashioned letters and send them in the mail, it will also show that you are unplugging, too.

Some camps treat device withdrawal like homesickness and try to keep campers busy to take their minds off of technolo-

Camp directors agree, a camp experience without electronic devices gives kids a better chance to form solid friendships.

Suzanne Koup-Larsen is a contributing writer to MetroKids.

10 MARCH 2018 sacramentoparent.com

CAMP

sacramentoparent.com MARCH 2018 11

Wildflower Forest Preschool Opening in September 2018

Discover the Difference at Camellia Waldorf School

Where learning is doing and becoming

A nonprofit, independent school, fully accredited by the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America 12 MARCH 2018 sacramentoparent.com

CAMP

Mud—A Prescription for Healthy Kids

By Ashley Talmadge Kids love mud—it’s just a fact. Whether it’s the batter for fresh muffins, or the building material for mini dams and roadways, or just the satisfying squish between toes, a young child seems drawn to the stuff as if by design.

Parents, on the other hand, may be less enthusiastic about mud. For one thing— mud is dirty. But there are still plenty of good reasons to let your kids play in mud. The National Wildlife Federation’s report “The Dirt on Dirt: How Getting Dirty Outdoors Benefits Kids” states, “The things small children want to do outside, like building mud castles, splashing around in puddles and rolling down hills…may, in fact, be a grubby little prescription for health and happiness.”

Here’s more on the benefits of getting muddy.

Physical health. There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that early contact with some of the infectious microbes found in soil can result in a lower risk of heart disease later in life. Other studies have linked the over-use of sanitizers and sterilizing products to a higher incidence of allergies and autoimmune disorders.

In addition, many experts have noted the connection between a sedentary lifestyle and an unhealthy body. “We have an epidemic of obesity in this country,” says pediatrician Dr. Bruce Birk. “All the best efforts to change diet are important, but secondary to the importance of regular physical activity, especially outdoors.”

Mental health. Look at a child’s face as she splashes in a muddy puddle, and you know she just feels good. Studies suggest that this feeling of well-being may result, at least in part, from a child’s contact with the soil. A bacterium found in dirt (M. vaccae) has actually been linked to increased levels of serotonin, a compound in the brain related to feelings of happiness. Physical play outdoors can

also result in gains in independence and creativity. Chrissy Larson, an outdoor educator and preschool teacher, observes that a child’s “play in natural spaces is much more creative because of the lack of structure and the constant change with the seasons and weather.”

Educational benefits. Young children learn by engaging in hands-on activities with real objects. Put simply, children learn by getting their hands dirty. Unstructured play (that is, play initiated by the child and not led by an adult) is an important part of their education, and has been shown to promote cognitive growth and to positively influence social interactions. Yet today, a child’s schedule is often packed with hours of directed activities in school, sports, or aftercare programs. Free time is spent in front of one screen or another. There seems to be less and less time to “just muck about.”

During unstructured play children plan, make decisions, and see the results on their own.

ADHD has skyrocketed. But it seems that playing in the dirt and mud, whether in the backyard or hiking along a creek bed, might be the perfect antidote. As Birk says, “There is nothing better or simpler than just going outside for unstructured play time in nature.”

Mud continued on page 15

Connection with nature. Many experts agree that today’s children are quickly losing any connection to the natural world. Larson has seen her young students blossom as they follow raccoon tracks in the mud, and learn to recognize the trees that provide good rain shelter.

She says, “I truly believe all that time spent digging in the dirt, playing on the dirt, sliding down the dirt, and sitting for snacks and stories in the dirt literally roots them to the earth…They begin to gain an understanding of the simplest and most complex parts of nature.”

Today our children have more on their plates (often literally) than ever before.

We tend to lead over-scheduled, yet sedentary lives. The CDC reports that obesity rates among our youth have tripled in the last 30 years. Pediatric use of antidepressants and medications for sacramentoparent.com MARCH 2018 13

BYERS GYMNASTICS Summer CampS

Regular Price $170

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www.byersroseville.com 14 MARCH 2018 sacramentoparent.com

CAMP Mud continued from page 13

Melanie Symms, mother of two active young boys, agrees. “My boys need to run around in fresh air, rain or shine,” she says. “It seems to help their behavior and general attitude.” Couldn’t your kids use a little mud medicine?

Make Your Own Mud Pit No rain in the weather forecast? No worries. A DIY backyard mud pit provides hours of good clean (yes!) hands-on entertainment for budding bakers and engineers: • Find a corner of the yard where you won’t miss the grass. Kids are natural excavators—just be sure they know the boundaries.

• Add lots of water for masses of ooey-gooey mud. If you’re using a hose, decide who controls the flow of water before play begins.

• Provide tools of the trade: old pots and utensils; PVC pipe and connecting joints; hose, sprinkler, and wading pool.

• Bury some booty for young treasure-seekers: marbles, toy cars, shells, miniature plastic animals.

• Clean-up tactics save your sanity: Use specific clothing for mud play. Set a dishpan of water and an old towel near the door for pre-rinsing hands and feet. Enforce postmud showers if necessary.

Ashley Talmadge is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in dozens of parenting publications across the U.S. and Canada. Living in the Pacific Northwest, mud is a happy constant in her family’s life.

sacramentoparent.com MARCH 2018 15

Choral and Orchestra Music Camp

MAKE A SPLASH!

Ages 4th Grade - College

A trail to the past,

A CONNECTION TO THE FUTURE! Historic Tours Arts & Crafts Educational Activities Much More!

HISTORY CAMP SESSIONS July 9-13: History Live!

July 16-20: Gold Fever!

July 23-27: Dig It! Recommended for ages 8-12

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March 19, 2018

Early Bird

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Late Registration

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Extended care available for an additional fee.

CONTACT US AT: mcjames@cityofsacramento.org

916.808.4980

16 MARCH 2018 sacramentoparent.com

CAMP

Horse Wonder: Exploring the World of Horses

By Diane Turner Maller There was a time when it was common place for parents to have at least one tale from a childhood memory that involved an encounter or “wild ride” with a horse to share with their children. Fewer and fewer parents now have direct horse knowledge from our own upbringing.

In finding horse centered opportunities for our children, we can learn along with them.

Therapeutic riding programs have proliferated and the benefits of spending time with a horse grounds any child in present time sensory experience. Consider simple ways that you could introduce your child to the extraordinary world of horses.

Attend a horse show. Depending on your location, horse events may be more plentiful than you think. A local 4H Chapter may be a source of not only the 4H Club activities but also the broader circuit of local horse driven affairs. Feed stores feature bulletin boards that highlight upcoming events with flyer sized photos of horses in action.

When you get to your selected event, watch how the horses are handled. Decide which rider seems to do this better than the others and why. Help your child learn to distinguish between the various breeds of horses. Can you tell which one is a Morgan? Do you like the coloring of the Appaloosa?

Notice how individual horses have their own personality. How do horses communicate? What does it mean when the horse moves his ears forward and back?

What makes the horse lower his head?

Revel in the pure joy of movement that can be seen and felt from the horse who is allowed to run free in the arena with head held high, tail lifted, and mane flying.

Photos courtesy of Carrie Moore

Find friends or neighbors who have a horse. Maybe there is a neighbor who pastures a horse or two at the end of the road past the last house of the subdivision. With permission from the owner, a young child could feel the soft muzzle of a horse’s lips while feeding a carrot or apple. “Hold your hand flat” is the primary precaution to offer a child who is reaching through the fence toward the on-looking horse’s mouth. In general, horse owners are happy to share oppor-

tunities for friendly interaction between a lonely horse and a cheerful group of neighborhood children gathered by the fence who are eager to offer attention.

A friend may take riding lessons and would be willing to invite your child along to help with feeding chores or to watch a lesson. Always check with barn policies first before joining in. A waiver of liability form will likely be required to enter the premises.

Horses continued on page 19 sacramentoparent.com MARCH 2018 17

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Horses continued from page 17

Take riding lessons or attend a camp.

Programs that offer lessons usually provide lesson horses for beginning riders.

As with many other activities, word of mouth is often the best way to hear about who the best teachers are.

Distance from home may ultimately become the deciding factor in where you find an equestrian program suitable for your child. As an alternative to local stables, a week or month long summer riding camp may be a good introductory opportunity where your child could learn about horse care and take in some lessons. More than one style of riding could be experienced this way.

Look for cooperative opportunities.

Our family dentist, Sandra Galloway, shared with me recently how much she loves boarding her horse. She pays for full care and doesn’t have to worry about the daily feeding times. Additionally, she leases her horse to a young woman who is an active show rider.

The arrangement turns out to be a winwin for her as a horse owner and for the young woman as a horse rider. Sandra takes care of the boarding costs, veterinary bills, and hoof care. In exchange, Sandra and her young children are able to enjoy their calm, well mannered, and well trained horse from the hard work and expertise of a rider in training. All parties benefit: the horse owner and her children, the competitive rider, and, of course, the horse.

As experience is gained and as you and your child meet more people in the horse world, opportunities to lease or to trade work for riding privileges are bound to present themselves. In all of your “horse trading,� be sure to document the details and expectations in writing.

Movies for horse lovers Black Beauty Dreamer: inspired by a True Story Flicka Moondance Alexander National Velvet Secretariat Seabiscuit Summer of the Colt The Black Stallion The Man from Snowy River

Horses are exceptionally sensitive creatures and have much to teach those who form relationships with them.

Diane Turner Maller is a freelance writer who, thanks to her grandfather, has been a horse lover since childhood. sacramentoparent.com MARCH 2018 19

Happy Spring

Host a Magical Birthday Party!

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Voted Best Place for a Kid’s Birthday Party – Two Years in a Row! Sacramento Magazine

More information: www.fairytaletown.org (916) 808-7062 20 MARCH 2018 sacramentoparent.com

Sing it Clean: 8 Silly Songs to Get the Chores Done

By Pam Molnar Motivating a preschooler to clean up can be as frustrating as herding cats. Instead of sending your toddler into a tailspin when playtime is over, encourage them to sing along to make the job go faster.

The Dishes Song

(Sung to the tune of Here we go Round the Mulberry Bush) This is the way we wash a cup, wash a cup, wash a cup.

This is the way we wash a cup so the dishes will be done.

(For other verses, exchange cup for glass, spoon, fork, knife, plate, bowl)

Time to Set The Table

(Sung to the tune of Old MacDonald) Set the table for our meal It’s dinner time, you know!

And on our table we need some PLATES Wonder where they go?

A PLATE goes here, a PLATE goes there.

Here at PLATE, there a PLATE, every where a PLATE, PLATE

If Your Clothes Are

C-L-E-A-N

(Sung to the tune of If you’re Happy and you know it)

There was a boy who made a mess and Mommy said to clean up C-L-E-A-N, C-L-E-A-N, C-L-E-A-N, And Mommy said to clean up.

On The Floor…

If your clothes are on the floor, pick them up.

If your clothes are on the floor, pick them up.

If your clothes are on the floor, then don’t leave them there, If your clothes are on the floor, pick them up.

(For other verses, exchange clothes for toys, books, Legos, Barbies, etc.)

The LEGOs on the floor go in the bin, In the bin In the bin.

Clean Up The Toys

(Also use fork, knife, spoon, glass, bowl and napkin)

Other verses include: The dolls on the floor go in their beds

Clean, Clean, Clean Your Room

The books on the floor go on the shelf

(Sing in round – everyone staggering their start time – for a longer song)

Match The Socks

(Sung to the tune of Are you Sleeping?)

(Sung to the tune of The Wheels on the Bus)

The Toys On The Floor

The LEGOs on the floor go in the bin,Look! It’s almost clean.

Clean, clean, clean your room Just as Mom would do Dust and fold and make the bed And pick the toys up too

(For subsequent verses, pick up a toy in place of the letter C, then CL and so on.)

Where’s the blue sock?

Where’s the blue sock?

It’s right here.

It’s right here.

Roll it in a ball and tuck the socks together.

One match found.

One match found.

Set the table for our meal It’s dinner time, you know!

Sung to the tune of Row, Row, Row Your Boat)

(Sung to the tune of B-I-N-G-O)

The crayons on the floor go in the box The cars on the floor go in their garage The animals on the floor go back to the zoo The clothes on the floor go in the hamper The shoes on the floor go on the rack

(Sung to the tune of The Adams Family) Clean up the Toys (snap, snap) Clean up the Toys (snap, snap) Clean up the Toys Clean up the Toys Clean up the Toys (snap, snap) There’s LEGOs and there’s dollies Lots of trucks and Barbies Play food, balls and drawings And lots of board games, too.

Clean up the Toys (snap, snap) Clean up the Toys (snap, snap) Clean up the Toys Clean up the Toys Clean up the Toys (snap, snap)

Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three teens. Her silly songs continue to motivate her children to clean up quickly–if only to stop her from embarrassing them with her silly songs. sacramentoparent.com MARCH 2018 21

How to Help Your ADHD Child Get Organized: 5 Tips You Can Start Using Today

By Meagan Ruffing

YOU KNOW IT. The never-ending battle of your son’s messy room. “Pick that up! How did your room get this messy? Why are your books torn up? Are these wrappers under your bed?”

The truth is, kids with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) have a hard time getting organized and staying organized. Instead of threatening to take away electronics for life, try these tips the next time you walk into your child’s super messy bedroom.

Tell him one thing at a time. Kids with ADHD have a hard time following multiple directions. Give them one command at a time. For example, you might say to your daughter, “Please put all of the LEGOs in the red bin. When you are done with that, come back and see me.” Notice the command was not vague. It was very specific. This tip is imperative for children who process commands differently than other children. It can be overwhelming and frustrating for kids when they can’t remember which order to do things in, which almost always ends up in a meltdown.

As the parent, this extra and sometimes timely step can feel like just one more thing in the laundry list of tips to remember with our children but in the end, it really does benefit everyone involved. Once your child has put all of the LEGOs in the red bin and is now standing in front of you, go ahead and give her another task. “Please make your bed and then come back and see me.” Even after specific commands like these, your daughter might still feel overwhelmed with the constant picking up.

For these types of children, it is important to give a timeline or a plan. For example, “After you put the LEGOs in the red bin and make your bed, you can take a break and swing outside but after your 10-minute break, you will need to go back to 22 MARCH 2018 sacramentoparent.com

your room and hang your clothes up.” This story-telling to your child serves more than one purpose; it lets your daughter know what’s expected of her and it tells her the plan in a very clear way.

Don’t be afraid to give rewards. Some kids do better with tangible rewards. Forget the guilt of thinking you’re bribing your kids. Do what works for you and your child and get on with your day. Too often, guilt plays a role in parenting children with ADHD. Let it go and remind yourself that you know your child best and what works for other children does not always work for yours.

Allowing phone time or screen time can be a lucrative incentive for kids who crave media. Use this to your advantage. If you see that your child is getting frustrated because he flat out does not want to pick up his room, tell him he can have five minutes of Minecraft for every command he does without whining. Be sure to remind him of this after he successfully does what you have asked him to do. Kids with ADHD crave structure and routine.

It may not always seem like it especially when they’re yelling back at you or being defiant but these children need boundaries. Even though they like control and they like to test you, they ultimately do better when they know what is expected of them.

Take a picture of each area cleaned up the way you want it. This is a really simple way to have a visual example for kids about what you expect their space to look like.

Remember the LEGOs mentioned earlier in this article? Take a picture of them in the red bin. When it comes time for your daughter to pick her room up, pull out that picture and show it to her. Kids need visual reminders of what needs to be done. This will take the guess work out of what she thinks you expect and instead, it will be an exact example of what you want her to do.

Praise. It’s a toss-up for kids with ADHD on whether or not they like praise. Some do and some don’t. If your child does, than by all means, praise him as he picks things up. If you have a child who actually reacts negatively when you offer positive reinforcement, just wait until he is done with everything you have asked him to do and simply say, “Good job.” You may want to say more because you are used to doing that with your other children who love it when you tell them how proud or happy you are but some kids can’t stand this. If this sounds like your child, simply acknowledging the hard work he has done is enough.

It may not seem like it now but kids really do want to be good; especially those with ADHD. Depending on how old your child is, she may not understand why she acts the way she does sometimes. This is all part of navigating the tricky world of having a child with a behavioral disorder. Use these tips the next time you walk into your child’s room and see a huge mess. You’ll thank yourself later for having a plan in place instead of reacting in the moment.

Meagan Ruffing has an 9-year-old son with ADHD. Just when she thinks she’s got him figured out, he throws her a curveball and they find themselves starting from square one again. For more information on how to help your child and yourself, visit her at www.meaganruffing.com.

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

GoDandelion.com

your link to special needs resources and articles

Robinson & Fulton Law

Estate Planning and Special Needs Attorneys

We guide families through:

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

www.fulton-law.com

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

333 University Avenue, Suite 200 Sacramento, CA 95825 One California Street, Auburn, CA 95603 sacramentoparent.com MARCH 2018 23

24 MARCH 2018 sacramentoparent.com

Strategies to Cure a Picky Eater

By Kerrie McLoughlin Want to know how parents of young kids can kick the chicken nugget, fruit snack and mac ’n cheese habit? Check out these tried-and-true strategies to get a picky eater to switch to a more healthy way of life.

Include them in the cooking. Pull up a chair or stool to the kitchen counter and teach those babies how to cook! They will have an investment in the process and be proud to present and try the meal they helped make. Sit down and ask what some of their favorite meals are and put the ingredients on the shopping list.

Include them in the shopping. Sometimes kids are picky simply because they want to exert their independence. One strategy to help them along this stage is to take them grocery shopping with you and let them choose some new things to try.

Heck, include them in the growing.

Cynthia Hiebert, mom of two, shares, “Planting a garden is a great way to interest kids in partaking of the fruits (and vegetables) of their labor!” We have a huge garden and my kids will even eat

pickled beets…I believe it’s because they helped weed the garden, pull up the beets and then can them with their dad.

(You’ll love the article on Pizza Gardens in the April issue of Sacramento Parent.)

It’s all about presentation…and sauces!

I know kids love fries so I make sweet potatoes and carrots into long, thin pieces and bake them on a pan in the oven. Sauces and toppings are a must, so offer a variety. Ketchup, steak sauce, sour cream, Ranch dip and others make your kids more likely to give something foreign a chance.

Presto chango. Change the fast food chicken nugget into a bread-crumbed, baked version. Courtney Ludwig-Shay, mom of one, says, “We try to take the beloved foods and make them in a healthy version. We make chicken bites instead of nuggets, fruit leathers instead of fruit snacks.”

Just try it. “I try to provide at least one thing they'll eat at each meal. If they don't finish the rest, they don't get to have a separate meal or snacks later. I also request they at

least try each item, even if they ‘know’ they don't like it,” says Annette M. Whipple, mom of three.

Variety is the spice of life… and no kids meals out! Cynthia Hiebert says, “I just fed my kids a wide variety of foods, including all types of ethnic foods, from the time they started on solids. Also, don’t order kids meals at restaurants; give them some of your food, or two or three kids could share a regular menu meal.”

Be cool as a cucumber at mealtime.

Don’t engage in food battles and hold your ground. Gina Kennedy, mom of two, shares, “I don't make them finish their plates. They know when they're full, and what's left can be wrapped up for later. Plus, they're more willing to try new things if they know they only have to try one bite instead of finishing every last crumb.”

Take your time in picky eater rehab.

Shannon Watkins, mom of seven, says, “I would say it’s a process. Take one meal per day and try to make healthier options. So if a child likes chicken nuggets, make homemade nuggets.”

Repeat exposure. Above all, be patient.

Gina Kennedy, shares, “A note on trying a bite: that's not for new foods, that's for all foods. Even foods they're convinced they hate. The repeat exposure builds familiarity.”

Have fun with the process, try to be patient, and you will likely soon be rewarded with a child who doesn’t fight you on every new thing, but who shocks you with wanting to try all sorts of new things!

Kerrie McLoughlin is a homeschooling mom of 5 living in the country, and you can find her family’s adventures over at TheKerrieShow.com.

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Seize the Day for Fun and Play– Preschooler Style

By Laura Reagan

While you are chasing your toddler around the store or answering your preschooler’s question for the tenth time, an older mom watches you nostalgically and says in the checkout line, “I know you’re tired now, but it goes by so fast.” You may be so busy taking care of them, enjoying them may be a stretch some days. It only takes a few minutes to make a memory though.

Desiring to give every educational advantage, parents schedule preschoolers for play dates, dance classes, gym time, swim lessons, educational field trips to the hands on discovery museum and more. Early childhood is all about learning for sure. But doing so in the context of the parent-child bond is often the most impactful and the most fun.

Okay kiddo, let’s schedule some spontaneous fun without any purpose right now! I’ve blocked ten-minutes of unstructured play. Sounds silly, right?

It may seem counterintuitive to keep a list of possible spontaneous activities to cultivate but the truth is, many of us simply aren’t good at letting go and having fun. Maybe the list below can spark some homespun fun, bonding and learning with your preschooler. Add to the list and make your own memories.

10-Minute Play Breaks Cook together. Supernanny calls this the involvement strategy.

Read books side by side on the porch, drinking lemonade.

Combine math and fun, count everything! Count the toys. Count the books. Count the butterflies going by. Count the trees in the yard.

Sing each other’s favorite songs while watering your yard.

Lay down on a blanket outside (picnic style) and watch the clouds go by, tell each other the shapes you see.

Buy a new box of crayons and draw portraits of each other.

Pack a picnic lunch and go to the park to eat. See where the day takes you.

Buy bird seed or bread and feed the birds or ducks at your local pond.

Tell stories to each other with the listener providing the first line to the storyteller.

Blow bubbles in the backyard.

Play a new version of hide and seek with water guns. When a player is “found” squirt them!

Do chalk art on your driveway or sidewalk together.

Have an arts and crafts day. Works of art can decorate kid’s rooms or refrigerator.

Collect old books and toys to take to a children’s hospital. Learning to give early develops empathy in your preschooler.

Walk outside in your pajamas and count the stars before bedtime.

Have fun with your little one. As the wise, older mom said, “It goes by so fast!”

Laura Reagan, MS is a parenting coach, parenting journalist and author. She can be reached for coaching sessions at her website, www.LauraLReagan.com.

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28 MARCH 2018 sacramentoparent.com

2018 2017 GUIDE TO PRESCHOOLS & CHILDCARE Adventure Christian School

Brighton Preschool

Roseville | Rocklin | 916-781-2986 Preschool, Elementary, and Junior High | Mon-Fri, 7am-6pm

916-353-0681 | Granite Bay | Folsom

Our award winning program will prepare your child to succeed in today’s world using strong academics, Christian values, small class sizes, credentialed teachers, and state of the art facilities. Before and after school care programs available.

Brighton Private Schools of Granite Bay and Folsom are proud to offer “Excellence in Education for Your Child, Peace of Mind for You” for children ages 6 weeks through 5 years of age. Please call us to learn how Brighton can enrich your child’s education and your family’s life.

www.AdventureChristianSchool.org

www.BrightonSchools.com

Brookfield School

Camellia Waldorf School

Sacramento| 916-442-1255

Sacramento | 916-427-5022 Preschool to 8th grade

Brookfield Preschool strives to “feed the brain” through fun activities that give children the great start they need to be successful in elementary school and beyond. Brookfield provides a challenge, while encouraging creativity and curiosity. Most of all, we want learning to be fun, so children will be hungry for more! www.BrookfieldSchool.org

Capital Christian Early Education Center

Now located in Sacramento’s Pocket neighborhood, Camellia Waldorf School offers an outstanding academic program, small class size, outdoor education, Spanish, music, field trips, and athletics. Established in 1989 and fully accredited by AWSNA. www.CamelliaWaldorf.org

Carden School of Sacramento

Sacramento | 916-856-5630 Days Open: Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm | 2 to Pre K

Sacramento | 916-488-1313 Mon-Fri, 7am to 6pm | 3 to 4 years-old

CCEEC serves children of all learning styles. Starting at age 2, we offer options such as potty training, full and half day schedule, STEAM-based curriculum, and financial aid.

Carden School of Sacramento provides an academically based Pre-Kindergarten for 3 and 4 year-old children. This phonics based, fundamental education is an outstanding advantage for students preparing for Kindergarten.

www.CCSCougars.org

Casa Kidz Rocklin | 916-626-4878 Mon, Thu, & Fri 8am-1:30pm | Tue/Wed 8am-3pm | 2 to 5 years-old A professional, home-based preschool that provides children ages 2-5 with safe, creative, nurturing and fun educational experiences.

Teacher/owner Adriana Soto, speaks Spanish, English, and Italian and takes a multicultural approach to learning. (100 meters from Sierra Elementary in Rocklin)

www.CardenSac.com

Child Action, Inc. Sacramento | 916-369-0191 Talk with someone who cares about child care as much as you do.

Our Child Care Counselors help parents through the often emotional process of choosing quality child care. www.ChildAction.org

www.CasaKidz.com

Child Development Centers (CDI/CDC) Multiple Locations | 916-268-7865 We provide licensed preschool and before and after school programs on elementary school campuses. It is our mission to enrich children’s lives through quality, accredited child development programs. CDI/CDC programs include homework help, recreation, clubs, 30Fit and much more. www.CDICDC.org

Children’s Choice for Hearing and Talking Sacramento (CCHAT) Rancho Cordova | 916-361-7290 Mon-Fri, 8:30am to 4pm | Birth to 8 years-old CCHAT is an auditory/oral early intervention program that teaches children with hearing loss (birth to 3rd grade) to listen and talk. www.CCHATsacramento.org

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Coming soon our 8th location in Rancho Cordova!

Flexible Drop-In Childcare Open 7 days a Week - Days, Evenings, Weekends Ages 6 Weeks to 12 Years Old Hourly and Day Rates offered for ages 2yrs-12yrs Citrus Heights, Folsom, El Dorado Hills, East Roseville, West Roseville, Elk Grove Highest Quality of Care & Cleanliness, Safe & Secure Free Morning Preschool Program during paid Child Care Services A Perfect Blend of Structured Play & Free Play Fun Summer & Holiday Camps License #: Roseville East 313616522/313616523 • Roseville West 313616520/313616521 Folsom 343616344/343616345 • EDH 093616361/093616362 EG 343616527/343616528 • CH 343619740/343619741

$5 OFF

VISIT (Min. 2 hrs)

Kid’s Camp Drop In Care Excludes Day Rate - One per Family Expires 3/31/2018-Single Use Only

FREE

FAMILY REGISTRATION

Kid’s Camp Drop In Care Expires 3/31/2018

Featuring a Multi-Level black lit Laser Tag Arena Bounce House & Super Slide Auditorium WI-FI enabled Guest Lounge Arcade Area with Redemption Center Multiple Private Party Rooms Group Rates available for Pre-Arranged Reservations Hours: Tues-Thurs 10am-6pm Fri & Sat 10am-8pm, Sun 11am-6pm 5037 Robert J Matthews Prkwy • El Dorado Hills, CA 95762

$25 OFF

BIRTHDAY PARTY

Kid’s Camp Party & Fun Center Expires 3/31/2018-Single Use Only Valid if presented at time of booking

$2 OFF

SINGLE PERSON ADMISSION LASER OR BOUNCE ACTIVITY

Kid’s Camp Party & Fun Center Expires 3/31/2018-Single Use Only, One per Family

( 916) 608-9900 • www.kidscampfamilies.com • (916) 358-5437

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Consumnes CSD Tiny Tot Preschools

Full STEAM Academy

Elk Grove | 916-405-5311 Mon-Fri, 8:30am-11:30am, 12:30pm-3:30pm | 3 to 5 years-old

Folsom | 916-353-0300Year Round Early Education and Nurturing Childcare for 6 wks thru K

Our caring teachers follow the California Department of Education’s Preschool Learning Foundations to better prepare children for kindergarten and instill a lifelong love of learning.

Infant License #343621685; Preschool License #343621686

Setting the Standard as a Premier Care and Educational Powerhouse

www.YourCSD.com/351/Tiny-Tot-Preschools

www.FSAchildrensacademy.com

The Gift of Kids

Granite Bay Montessori

El Dorado Hills | 916-521-1835 Infant care, 6 weeks-18 months, Preschool/Toddler care, 18 months-3 years, Preschool/Childcare, ages 3 to 5

Granite Bay | 916-791-7849 Mon-Fri, 7am to 6:30pm | 2 years to 8th grade

The Gift of Kids offers a structured, fun, loving program that fits every family’s needs. We offer daycare, preschool, before and after school care, summer camps and date nights.

Since 1991, GBM has successfully provided a safe, stimulating, peaceful environment which nurtures the whole child. Using the Montessori method, children develop a love for learning at a young age.

www.TheGiftOfKids.net

www.GBMontessori.com

Growing Brilliant Preschool Academy

Kid’s Camp

Folsom | Natomas | Rocklin | Roseville | 916-749-4325 Mon-Fri, 6:30am-6pm | Ages 6 weeks to 12 years

Folsom | El Dorado Hills | East Roseville | West Roseville Elk Grove | Citrus Heights | Rancho Cordova | 916-608-9900

Voted best preschool multiple times. Structured learning & guided play philosophy. Organic food, gardens, and class animals.

Hourly child care for ages 6 weeks to 12 years. Days, evenings and weekends. Superior care, the cleanest centers. Free preschool during paid child care services. Ask about our bounce, laser tag, and party facilities.

www.GrowingBrilliant.com

www.KidsCampFamilies.com

The Learning Years Academy

Little Folks University

Rancho Cordova | 916-635-4085 Mon-Fri, 6:45am-6pm, 2 years to 1st grade

Folsom | 916-985-7055

Providing a structured, “hands-on” environment where students can learn while having fun with friends. Introduction to German and Spanish are included in the curriculum for all ages.

Our hands-on curriculum engages children 6 weeks to 12 years-old.

Each child has an opportunity to learn, develop and explore at their own pace. Our teachers provide an environment that enables each child to learn and grow as an individual.

Follow us on Yelp

www.LittleFolksU.com

Little Sunshine’s Playhouse Granite Bay | ​​888​-​858​-​8070 We are an all-inclusive, private preschool program for infants through pre-kindergartners. Our licensed schools provide a home-like, nurturing environment where your child can feel comfortable to grow at his or her own pace. www.​L​ittle​S​unshine.com/granite-bay-california

Merryhill School Greater Sacramento | 877-959-4187 Preschool through 8th grade Offering outstanding private education with a curriculum that prepares students for success. Our preschools offer the perfect balance of learning and play. Our elementary and middle schools continue to foster a love of learning by providing challenging academics along with specialty classes.

Live Oak Waldorf School Meadow Vista | 530-878-8720 Live Oak Waldorf School is an accredited, independent Waldorf school located in the beautiful Sierra Nevada foothills close to Sacramento. Discover our experiential and artistic programs designed to teach students creative, critical thinking skills necessary for tomorrow’s world. Call for a tour today! www.LiveOakWaldorf.org

Sunrise Recreation and Park District Preschools Antelope, Citrus Heights, Foothill Farms | 916-725-1585 2, 3, and 4 day options available Sunrise offers 6 unique Preschools. Children 3 to 5 years-old will experience academics, arts and crafts, sharing, music, movement, indoor and outdoor play. www.SunriseParks.com

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St. Mary Preschool

STAR Preschool

Sacramento | 916-452-7200 Mon-Fri, 7am-6pm, There are many schedule options available.

Roseville | Granite Bay | Loomis | Lincoln 916-632-8417 | Mon-Thurs, 8:30am-12pm, 3 to 5 years

St. Mary Preschool is a play-based program where our goal is to provide a safe and stimulating faith based environment that fosters wonder, surprise and speculation.

STAR Preschool provides a caring and nurturing environment combined with high-quality curriculum that offers children a variety of rich experiences to enhance their knowledge and appreciation of the world around them. Extended care options available.

www.SaintMarySchool.com

www.STARsacramento.org

Trustline

Warners Granite Bay Country Day School

Serving the State of California | 800-822-8490

Granite Bay | 916-797-0222

Trustline registers California’s in-home child care providers and tutors who have been through, and passed, a criminal background screening. Registered providers have been cleared by the California Department of Justice and have no disqualifying criminal convictions in California. Has your child care provider passed?

A beautiful country farm setting where children can explore nature, receive excellent academic preparation, and celebrate childhood daily. www.GraniteBayCountryDaySchool.com

www.Trustline.org

Whispering Oak Montessori Academy 916-722-8118 | Citrus Heights Mon-Fri, 7:30am-5:30pm | 6 weeks to 6 years Encouraging independent, self-directed learning for life in a child-centered environment. Offering care for Infant through Kindergarten while promoting an international community valuing peace, respect for others and pride in individual differences. www.WhisperingOakMontessori.com

Looking .. . d a e h A

Whispering Oak Montessori Academy

Fostering Growth Nurturing Peace Inspiring Curiosity

Are you searching for something more than just an early learning center or for a better education for your children?

Whispering Oak Montessori Academy offers a rich, nurturing and stimulating environment firmly grounded in the Montessori Method and designed to lay the foundation for a life long love of learning.

Students are encouraged to grow to their full potential in a program designed to educate the whole child.

Create Your Own Pizza Garden The Job of Being a SAHM Great Pointers for New Moms Find Summer Sleep Away Camps

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

Call us for a tour and more information!

(916)722-8118/1181

• Full Academic

Montessori curriculum

• Infant/Toddler/Preschool/Kindergarten 6 weeks to 6 years

• Nutritious and Delicious meals prepared on-site

• Art & Music Appreciation • Spanish Language

8085 Oak Ave., Citrus Heights, CA 95610 www.whisperingoakmontessori.com sacramentoparent.com MARCH 2018 33

PRESCHOOL ACADEMY  Amazing, loving teachers  Educational based curriculum  Organic lunch  Organic garden

Granite Bay Montessori

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

Affordable Tuition-Based Private Montessori School

www.GrowingBrilliant.com

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

WWW.GBMONTESSORI.COM

We Offer

At Casa Kidz, we offer

a Home-Based Preschool, Spanish & Italian, and a Multicultural Experience.

Ages 2 - 5

Tiverton Court, Rocklin • (916) 626-4878

www.casakidz.com 34 MARCH 2018 sacramentoparent.com

Infant Lic. 093616199 Pre-School Lic. 093616198

www.TheGiftOfKids.net

Is Somebunny Ready for Egg Hunts?

Get ready for hippity-hoppin’ fun on the last day of March! Check our calendar, too!

MARCH 31ST EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA 9am at Fair Oaks Park A children’s egg hunt, pictures with the Bunny, crafts, petting zoo and the adults can try their luck at the adult egg hunt. Purchase a wristband for carnival games, inflatables, train ride and face painting. http://FairOaksPark.org EASTER EGG HUNT 9am at EDH Community Park Activities include: arts and crafts, visit from the Easter Bunny and an egg hunt at 10am sharp! Bring your own baskets. http://ElDoradoHillscsd.org AQUA-EGG HUNT 2pm at EDH Community Pool A basket will be provided for children to join in an aquatics egg hunt with plastic eggs floating on top and scattered along the bottom of the pool.

Eggs will be exchanged for goodies. Pre-registration required! http://ElDoradoHillscsd.org

The Learning Years Where Children Love To Learn

• Diverse,"Hands On" Curriculum • Structured Learning Environment • Good Balance of Academics and Play • German and Spanish • Field Trips

lic #343612257

Monday - Friday • 6:45am - 6:00pm Rancho Cordova • (916) 635-4085

SPRING EGGSTRAVAGANZA 8am at Lembi Community Park A pancake breakfast, free kiddie carnival games, entertainment, vendor displays and activities; and the big egg hunt featuring more than 25,000 eggs filled with candy and prize slips! www.Folsom.ca.us

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Learning & Fun at the Library The library is a great place to pop-in and pick up a book, but it’s also wonderful source for fun and learning for kids! If you haven’t been taking advantage of these free events and activities, it’s time to get started!

What are you waiting for? Find more free library fun each month in our calendar or visit SacLibrary.org.

Little Ones

MARCH (TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS) Baby/Toddler Storytime 11am at Robbie Waters Pocket-Greenhaven Library

Babies and toddlers (ages 0 to 3 years) and their caretakers are invited to a fun morning with songs and rhymes. Arrive early for extra social time with other children and parents.

MARCH 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 Preschool Storytime 11am at Elk Grove Library

Children (ages 3 to 5 years) and their caretakers are invited to enjoy music, books and crafts!

MARCH 5, 12, 19 & 26 Storytime 12pm at North Sacramento-Hagginwood Library

MARCH 21 Magic with Timothy James 4pm at Sylvan Oaks Library

Timothy James presents stupefying magic with lively comedy featuring audience participation.

His program is suitable for both kids and families so don’t miss it!

MARCH 28 Dinosaurs for Everyone!

6pm at Rancho Cordova Library

All things prehistoric: fossils and casts, videos and news of new discoveries!

Tweens & Up 3:30pm at Elk Grove Library

Build your own circuits with this innovative program. Use triggers, switches, light dimmers, and buttons to turn the lights on or make a plastic blade spin.

MARCH 17 Puppet Show: “A Tale of Dragon’s Tail”

MARCH 9 Broadway Sing-A-Long and Quiz Show

Princess Penny returns home to discover problems in the kingdom. A dragon has been spotted in the hills above the castle and the King has been giving all the kingdom’s gold to a wizard who claims he can keep the dragon away. Is there really a dragon?

School-Age

Deanna Fox 916-220-9994

MARCH 6 Little Bits: A STEM Program

Talk, sing, read, write, and play! Babies, toddlers, preschoolers and their caregivers will enjoy songs, rhymes and stories to build early literacy skills!

1pm at Colonial Heights Library

100% All Natural Products Same Day Service Peace of Mind Prevention

4pm at Arden-Dimick Library

Is “Greased Lightning” your theme song? Take part in this Broadway sing-a-long: answer trivia, eat snacks, and, of course...sing!

MARCH 24-30 Spring Break Bonanza for Teens Event times vary at Carmichael Library

MARCH 6 Read to a Rabbit 3:30pm at Arcade Library

Join us in reading to Bentley, a therapy rabbit, on the first Tuesday of every month! This is a variation on the popular Read to a Dog program. For schoolage children.

MARCH 14 Art Lab: Rainbows and Clovers 4pm at Arden-Dimick Library

Paint rainbows and decorate four-leaf-clovers in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. Materials will be provided.

Beat boredom this break! Pick out a free prom dress, mix up brunch smoothies, scramble eggs, create lotions and jewelry, join a Nerf gun/Xbox gaming lock-in!

MARCH 27 Harmony Henna for Teens and Adults 5pm at Rio Linda Library

Henna artist, Jackie Robbins, will create beautiful, temporary body art for teens and adults. Jackie provides all materials. You can choose from her many design samples.

Two Convenient Locations!

ONE-to-ONE INSTRUCTION Educational Supplies for Parents, Teachers & Homeschoolers

Ask About Our Onsite Classes For K-12

Grades K-12 Guaranteed Results Free Diagnostic Assessment No Contracts Individualized Programs

Programs Reading & Writing Math Algebra I & II Geometry

No Contracts! No Small Groups!

www.tutoringcenter.com

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

friday

saturday

1

2

3

Pajama Storytime

Books Before Bedtime Celebrating Dr. Seuss

Mixology March Madness

6pm at Fairytale Town

Little scientists will participate in Periodic Table of Elements hopscotch, molecule Jenga™ and cool science experiments, such as imploding apples, magnetic slime and soda rockets.

(Age 4+) www.SierraCollege.edu/events

6pm at El Dorado Hills Library

What’s better than stories, songs, and jammies? Nothing! (All ages) www.ElDoradoLibrary.org Read to a Dog

Dress in your pajamas and celebrate Dr. Seuss’ 114th birthday! www.Fairytaletown.org

10am at Sierra College, Sewell Hall

at North Natomas Library March your calendar...It’s time 3:30pm 9 Looking for a way to boost school-age Coding Games for Kids to celebrate spring! Fill your reading skills? Practice reading to a 3:30pm at McKinley Library service dog. (School age) Want to play fun computer games 10 bucket with exploration, move- Lend-A-Heart www.SacLibrary.org and be a coder? Come to this beginMarch Hare Madness ment, learning and laughter, 8 ner-friendly program where you can 10:30am at Effie Yeaw Nature Center design a flappy bird game, go on a Hop over for a hare-raising good time.

Prom Giveaway there’s something for every space quest, make a short animation, Hike and discover where a rabbit 7pm at Franklin Community Library more! (Ages 8-14) would make a nest, hide from danger kiddo (and those who are still Dresses, suits, accessories, and other and www.SacLibrary.org or find a tasty plant to eat. donated formal wear will be given a kid at heart)! www.SacNatureCenter.net away to youth. Please don’t wear 16 makeup on the giveaway day (it can TOUGH 1000: Kids Obstacle

stain clothing), wear something easy to change in and out of because changing space/privacy is limited.

Only teens can “shop,” but adults are welcome to attend. (Ages 13–19, bring your school ID) www.SacLibrary.org

CARE FOR A STORY? TUESDAYS Toddler Time 10am at Fairytale Town

www.FairytaleTown.org Storytime 12pm at North Sacramento-Hagginwood Library

www.SacLibrary.org

WEDNESDAYS Family Storytime 10:30am at Colonial Heights Library

www.SacLibrary.org Toddler Storytime

10am at Elk Grove Library

www.SacLibrary.org

Soldering 3:30pm at Elk Grove Library

Get started with soldering right out of the box. Read the instructions, then show off your new skills and enter into a “whole new world of making.”

(Teens) www.SacLibrary.org

15 Food Truck Mania 5pm at North Natomas Library

A fun, family event with scrumptious food from Sacto MoFo food trucks.

Stop by the Friends of the North Natomas Library bookstore in the library lobby for reasonably priced books. www.SacLibrary.org

22 Sensory Storytime

THURSDAYS Baby/Toddler Storytime 11:15am at Carmichael Library

www.SacLibrary.org

Preschool Storytime 11am at Elk Grove Library

www.SacLibrary.org

3:30pm at Rancho Cordova Library

A special storytime for kids on the autism spectrum and/or sensory disorders featuring books, music, fidget toys, crafts, and more! www.SacLibrary.org

29 Kids Movie Break: “Charlotte’s Web” (1973) 10:30am at Sylvan Oaks Library

We’ll be showing E.B. White’s classic story about a lonely piglet and a friendly spider. www.SacLibrary.org 38 MARCH 2018 sacramentoparent.com

Jurassic Quest

Fri 3-8pm, Sat & Sun 9am-8pm at Cal Expo

Walk through the Cretaceous period, the Jurassic Period and The Triassic period and experience what it was like to be among living, breathing, life-size dinosaurs. https://JurassicQuest.com

Course Fundraiser

9am at 5449 E Levee Rd, Sacramento

A multi-event obstacle course including a mud crawl, inflatables, foot race and more! Funds will go to help local homeless youth. (Ages 5-18) www.StudentReach.org

Leprechaun Catchers

17

3:30pm at McKinley Library

Celebrate Dr. Seuss’s Birthday!

Design and engineer your very own leprechaun catcher! The library will have a variety of materials to support your creativity. (School-age) www.SacLibrary.org

23 Minecraft Gaming

2pm at Carmichael Library

Crafts, games and a whole lot of fun for the whole family! www.SacLibrary.org

24 Eggs Galore & More 10am at Jose P. Rizal Community Center

Enjoy this computer game filled with mining, crafting and exploring! No experience necessary. (Ages 8-14). www.SacLibrary.org

Following the annual Bunny Breakfast, Eggs Galore offers arts and crafts, games, relay races, a bunny photo booth and more. http://SouthgateRecandPark.net

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1,2,3 Andrés! Live Bilingual Family Concert

Eggstravaganzoo

11pm at Franklin Community Library

Hop, skip, and jump on over for age-specific egg hunts (see website for details), colorful crafts, animal enrichments, goody bags and more! www.SacZoo.org

3:30pm at McKinley Library

Latin Grammy Award Winner 1,2,3 Andrés will delight families with an energetic show of music, culture, geography and more in both English and Spanish. www.SacLibrary.org Art Beast 4pm at North Sacramento-Hagginwood Library

Design your very own set of ceramic tile art using ink, paint pens and sharpies to create a work of art that you can display in your home. (All ages) www.SacLibrary.org

10am at the Sacramento Zoo

Musical Robot 1pm at Maidu Community Center

Songs, storytelling, puppetry and out of this world dance moves for the whole family to enjoy. www.Roseville.ca.us Spring Eggstravaganza 11am at Fairytale Town

An egg-citing weekend featuring egg hunts, prizes, spring themed arts and crafts and more! www.FairytaleTown.org

sunday

wednesday

tuesday

monday

4

5

6

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Tree: A Book Reading & Conversation

Storytime

Baby Storytime

Special Needs Planning

10:30am at Maidu Library and Riley Library

12pm at Elk Grove Library

1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center

Free weekly story time, which include book readings, rhymes, poems, songs and puppet play. (Age 0-5) www.Roseville.ca.us

Looking for a fun, fabulous and educational program for you and your baby (0-18 months)? Head to the library for stories, movement, and songs followed by stay and play. www.SacLibrary.org

6pm at Sierra College, Nevada County Campus

Take a journey with author, Melina Sempill Watt as you experience 229 years in the life of a California live oak...from the point of view of a tree. www.SacNatureCenter.net

11 Take a Bite Out of Nature 1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center

What are herbivores, carnivores and omnivores and how can you tell which are which? Check out the skulls and teeth of various animals and see if you can figure out what they eat! www.SacNatureCenter.net

18 Seeing Green 1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center

Explore the pond, see what critters are living there and find out how being green makes life a little easier in the pond. www.SacNatureCenter.net

25 Nature Tales 1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center

Experience the magic of the forest as you hike and enjoy tantalizing tales of creatures, people, and nature. www.SacNatureCenter.net Super Smash Bros. for WiiU Tournament 1pm at Central Library West Meeting Room

Pit yourself against other players in a double elimination tournament.

Prizes for top place finishers and best player under 16! (All ages) www.SacLibrary.org

Open Bounce 3:30pm at BounceU of Roseville

Preschoolers, elementary kids and teens can bounce for an hour of good fun! Walk-ins not accepted if session is full. www.BounceU.com

12 Girl Scout Day All day at Fairytale Town

Show your Girl Scout pride on Girl Scout’s 106th birthday! Wear your uniform and receive one free child admission with one paid adult admission! www.FairytaleTown.org

19 Storytime 6pm at the Roseville Downtown Library

Explore the wonders of reading with books, puppets, rhymes and songs!

(Age 0-5) www.Roseville.ca.us

26 Train Rides 11am-6pm at Fountains at Roseville

Trains depart about every 15-minutes and the voyage is about 7-minutes. www.FountainsatRoseville.com

Little Bits: A STEM Program 3:30pm at Elk Grove Library

Build your own circuits with this innovative program. Use triggers, switches, light dimmers, and buttons to turn the lights on or make a plastic blade spin. (Teens) www.SacLibrary.org

13 2’s & 3’s On the Go! 9:30am & 10:30am at El Dorado Hills Library

A hands-on program perfectly suited for toddlers. Sing songs, discover new books, and explore building a solid early literacy foundation in your child.

(Ages 2-3) www.ElDoradoLibrary.org Toddler Time 10am at Fairytale Town

A fun play-based learning experience just for little ones. (Age 2-5) www.FairytaleTown.org

20 Read to A Dog 3:30pm at Carmichael Library

Specially trained therapy dogs are waiting for children to read to them.

The books should be able to be read in 5-10 minutes. After 10 sessions, the reader gets a free book. (School Age) www.SacLibrary.org Toddler Time 10am at Folsom Public Library

Take a Bite out of Nature, March 11th

Dance Party!

12pm at Arden-Dimick Library

The floor will be cleared and the music will be turned up so you can shake your sillies out! (Ages 0-5) www.SacLibrary.org San Francisco Shakespeare Company’s “Romeo and Juliet” 3:30pm at McKinley Library

An all-ages version of Romeo and Juliet featuring both thrilling sword fights and beautiful poetry, performed by a cast of five Bay Area actors in contemporary costumes. Several walk-on roles include the audience in the show! www.SacLibrary.org

21 Magic with Timothy James 4pm at Sylvan Oaks Library

Stupefying magic with lively comedy featuring audience participation. www.SacLibrary.org Wild About Energy with Happy Bright Kids 3:30pm at Elk Grove Library

Follow Jungle Joe the Animal Trainer and his colorful cast of animal puppets as they learn about energy, science, technology, and more! (All ages) www.SacLibrary.org

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Need homework help? Volunteer homework coaches are available to assist students in grades K-12 with homework assignments. www.SacLibrary.org

Friends and Family Game Night

Train Rides, March 26th

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Short stories, movement songs and fingerplays for toddlers. Join the fun! www.Folsom.ca.us

6pm at Colonial Heights Library

Seeing Green, March 18th

Attorneys, Margaret Heiser Fulton and Ashley Clower, of Robinson & Fulton Law, discuss: decision making, advocating, the Special Needs Trust, benefits and the ABLE Act. www.sccommed.org

Each month features a different game for family and friends to play, from Pictionary to Family Feud. We provide the games and snacks! (All ages) www.SacLibrary.org

Homework Zone 3:30pm at North Natomas Library

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calendar/shows

​​Imagination Movers Live in Concert!

The Addams Family

March 16-24 presented by RIver City Theatre Company at Hiram Johnson High School Auditorium A musical comedy based on the characters created by Charles Addams. www.RCTCweb.org

discover riches beyond his dreams. www.CPlayhouse.org

S​ unday, March 4 at 2pm Colonial Theatre Sacramento

Seussical

March 9-24 at Roseville Theatre Arts Academy “Oh, the thinks you can think” when Dr. Seuss’ best-loved characters collide and cavort in an unforgettable musical caper! www.RosevilleTheatreArtsAcademy.com

Treasure Island

March 24 at Harris Center An action-packed, fun-filled tale of piracy, a mysterious treasure map, and a host of characters with bad intentions who meet their match and are foiled in their attempts. (Ideal for grades 3-7) www.HarrisCenter.net

The Twelve Dancing Princesses Photo courtesy of Julieta-Cervantes

The Book of Mormon

March 7-18 presented by Broadway Sacramento at Community Center Theater It’s “The Book of Mormon,” the nine-time Tony Award®-winning Best Musical. (Contains explicit language.) www.BroadwaySacramento.com

The Buddy Holly Story

March 2-4 at Harris Center Buddy tells the story of his short, yet spectacular career. His story explodes onto the stage in a toe-tapping, hand-clapping extravaganza that will have you “Up and Dancing in the Aisles!” www.HarrisCenter.net

Through March 18 at Sutter Street Theatre Each night, twelve princesses who love to dance sing a song that allows them secret passage into an enchanted forest. Their father, the King and the shoemaker are perplexed when they find twelve worn out pairs of shoes each morning. http://SutterStreetTheatre.com

Wizard of Oz

March 10-31 at Davis Musical Theatre Company Dorothy dreams of what lies over the rainbow. When a twister hits her family farm, she is carried away to travel the universe of Dorothy’s imagination. www.DMTC.org

The Emperor’s New Clothes

March 23-31 at The Woodland Opera House It’s not easy being 13, especially not for Calvin. His father, the kingdom’s beloved emperor, has died, and now Calvin must assume the throne—the last thing this shy, awkward boy wants to do. Can he overcome his insecurities and save the kingdom? http://WoodlandOperaHouse.org

Jack and the Beanstalk

March 31-April 14 presented by Chautauqua Playhouse at La Sierra Community Center Poor Jack sells the family cow for a handful of beans. Little does he know that they are magic and will take him on an adventure into the clouds to

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Yamato—The Drummers of Japan

March 18 at Mondavi Center Experience the art of taiko drumming. These masters put on a spectacular performance combining musicianship and high-energy movement with costumes and an assortment of wadaiko drums. www.MondaviArts.org

S​ pend a fun, family day with these Emmy winning TV stars! “Imagination Movers” episodes can be seen on the Disney NOW app or On Demand through cable providers. ​​ They are excited to play real, live rock music for families in Greater Sacramento and we’ve heard their performances feature flying toilet paper, vortex trash cans, giant balloons, broken drumsticks and lots of confetti! ​ Thanks Imagination Movers! One lucky Sacramento Parent reader will be taking their family to rock out at the show​for free​! ​If you missed the giveaway, you can still purchase your tickets to experience this interactive, family-friendly rock concert by visiting www.BrownPaperTickets. com/event/3208778.

calendar/exhibits BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

Work From Home No Selling No Parties Not MLM PARTY

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

NorCal’s Fastest

The Cycle

Through March 12 at California Automobile Museum

March 25-July 15 at Crocker Art Museum

Northern California has been a hotspot for racing of all kinds. This exhibit focuses on local people involved in the racing scene with awesome cars and memorabilia from their legendary stories. www.CalAutoMuseum.org

Cyrus Tilton grew up in a remote river valley in Anchorage, Alaska in open wilderness. After moving to Oakland, California he grew concerned with the burgeoning human population, the earth’s inability to sustain continued growth and the trend of mass consumerism. The locust serves as a metaphor in this exhibit. www.CrockerArt.org

Paper & Leaf March 8-April 13 at Pence Art Gallery

New work by Hannah Hunter, a printmaker, collage artist and art therapist who lives in Davis. Inspired by her travels in Hawaii and interest in botany. http://PenceGallery.org Passion & Perseverance: A Year at Encina March 1-June 10 at California Museum

An exhibit highlighting stories of dedicated teachers in a low-income school and their students, whose resilience and ability cannot be measured by test scores. www.CaliforniaMuseum.org

Youth Art Month March 8-April 1 at Crocker Art Museum

Celebrating exceptional arts education programs in this exhibition of student artwork. The Museum is proud to serve again as a venue for Sacramento-area schools and art organizations. www.CrockerArt.org

Some things are unexpected!

Please note that we will have to wait a little bit longer to celebrate Sacramento Parent's 10th Annual Babies & Bumps.

One thing is certain, this will be an event worth waiting for!

Birthday Parties, Grand Openings & Other Events!

• Balloon Twisting • Parties For All Ages

HAPPY ST. PATRICK’S DAY! Award Winning Balloon Artist!!!

(530) 867-5077

www.dillydallytheclown.com

LANGUAGE

MUSIC

B.A. Degree in Music & 30 years experience Immediate Openings

JulieChafin@comcast.net

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A Dozen Ways to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day

By Pam Molnar The celebration of St. Patrick’s Day has spread throughout the world. Originating in Ireland, March 17th was spent at church and with family, celebrating the teachings of Christianity. When the Irish emigrated to the United States and Canada, the festivities evolved to the wearing of the green, watching parades and eating corned beef and cabbage.

In recent years, countries as far away as Japan and Russia started celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, proving you don’t have to be Irish to enjoy their holiday.

Add 1 cup of buttermilk, 1 egg and 1 cup of raisins (optional) and mix well. Knead dough slightly and form into a round.

Place on baking sheet. Cut “X” in bread top and brush with 1 egg white. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes at 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

Have the Leprechaun visit every night while you sleep. Similar to the “Elf on the Shelf”, the Leprechaun comes by every night to do mischievous things like empty the tissue box or hide the remote.

Whether you are Irish or not, take time to explore these fun activities with your family. With a dozen ideas to choose from, you can extend your celebration right through the month of March.

Watch Irish movies together. Try “The Secret of Roan Inish”, “The Magical Legend of the Leprechauns” or “The Luck of the Irish”.

Make Irish Soda Bread. Combine 4 cups of flour, 4 tablespoons of white sugar, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 tablespoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt and ½ cup of softened margarine in a bowl.

Make rainbow cupcakes. Prepare a box of white cake mix as directed. Place equal amounts of the batter in 6 separate bowls. Add food coloring to each bowl to make yellow, orange, red, green, blue and purple batter. Spoon equal amounts of the colored batter into a prepared muffin tin. Do not mix. Bake as directed. Decorate with green icing and yellow mini chocolate candies to represent the gold at the end of the rainbow.

peas, spinach, asparagus, cucumbers and green beans. Tell your kids that Leprechauns love everything green and that you made some of their favorite meals.

It’s a great way to get them to try new veggies. For really picky eaters, offer a chocolate gold coin chaser as a reward for trying.

racotta pot with a Leprechaun face. Fill the pot with soil and add shamrock seeds (found online at Amazon.com). Place the pot in a sunny place and watch the “hair” of your Leprechaun grow.

month to teach your children how their efforts can help the environment. Conserve water by taking shorter showers, save energy by shutting off electronics when not in use and walk instead of drive when possible.

games or video games and challenge your family to see who has the “Luck of the Irish”.

Incorporate a green vegetable into your dinner plan each night. Try broccoli, Brussels sprouts,

Grow a Leprechaun. Decorate a ter-

Live a greener life. Use this “green”

Play games. Pull out the cards, board

Make your own green flowers.

Hunt for four leaf clovers. If the weather doesn’t allow, get crafty by creating your own by cutting a green pepper in the middle, dip edges in paint and make clover stamps.

Buy a bouquet of white carnations. Fill a vase with water and several drops of green food coloring. Make a fresh cut in the bottom of the flower stem before placing them in the vase. Watch as the green food coloring slowly makes it way up the stem and into the white flower turning the pedals green.

Research your family tree even if you don’t have Irish roots. Start Share your blessings with with a free trial on Ancestry.com and see someone else. Although the Decemhow far back you can trace your family’s history. You may be surprised to find a few Leprechauns hanging out in your family tree if you check your DNA.

ber holidays are over, the need for volunteers and charitable gifts are still vital.

Use your family’s time and talents to give back to the community.

Pam Molnar is a freelance journalist and mother of three. With Irish roots in their family tree, St. Patrick’s Day is always celebrated in their home.

Follow her on Etsy at Pam’s Party Printables.

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Come ov er & play!

March 2 Books Before Bedtime Celebrating Dr. Seuss March 3 & 4 Puppet Show: Happy Birthday, Dr. S March 31 & April 1 Spring Eggstravaganza Multiple egg hunts!

3901 Land Park Drive, Sacramento (916) 808-7462

For more programs and events, visit fairytaletown.org

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