Sacramento Parent March 2019

parent March 2019

CONNECTING FAMILIES FOR 26 YEARS

MEET ELLA, COVER KID SEARCH WINNER!

Spring Fun in Full Bloom

Preschool and Child Care Choices CAMP ISSUE sacramentoparent.com

it happens here

Register for Summer Camp Today Creative and imaginative programs that kids love, run by qualified and supportive camp leaders and teachers. Children love our camp singing, exploring, creating, playing, moving, leading, and friendship building!

CONVENIENT CAMP LOCATIONS Most camps are at our centers right on campus, with the same convenient drop-off and pick-up you are used to for our before- & after-school programs.

SCHEDULES FOR BUSY FAMILIES With camps during seasonal school breaks and traditional summer days, our licensed programs have flexible schedules and offer full days.

$15 Off Each Week of Camp when you register for Summer Camp and pay deposit by your district deadline.

Visit center or cdicdc.org for details/rules.

LOCATIONS IN— Elk

Grove · Rocklin · Davis · Woodland Antelope · Dixon · Sacramento

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MARCH 2019 sacramentoparent.com

LICENSE #434400406/300607157

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parent

on our cover

March 2019

Ella was chosen as our winner of the Sacramento Parent Annual Cover Kid Search event held during the popular Babies & Bumps celebration! Learn more about Ella on page 18 and check out our favorite ten finalists, too!

Photography by: Crystal Jones Photography www.CrystalJonesPhotography.com

contents MARCH 2019

9 departments

7

SAFETY 101

Bike Safety

9

CAMP

Letting Go Helps Kids Grow

15 HOMESCHOOL ADVENTURES

11

34

features

around town

11 18

30 CALENDAR

Learning Through Exploration Meet the Cover Kid Search Winner and Finalists

34

Spring has Sprung...Time to Celebrate!

Spring Fun

32 ON STAGE Classics Revisited

33 ON DISPLAY

Impromptu Learning Moments

Notable Exhibits

special advertising section

22

25

Activities for All Abilities

Preschool & Child Care Guide

online exclusives this month What Smartphone Use Right Before Bed Does to a Child’s Brain Dr. Sears’ Tips for Cough and Cold Season 4

MARCH 2019 sacramentoparent.com

CAMP ISSUE

Well hello spring, one of my favorite times of the year! Inside this month’s issue you’ll find lots of ideas to celebrate the season and plenty of fun spring activities for families. From learning through exploration to family fun days around town, you’ll want to get outdoors this month.

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: Kaleena Amuchastegui | Rob Baquera Michelle Kopkash | Pam Molnar Becki Robins | Shannon Smith contributing photographer: Crystal Jones Photography www.CrystalJonesPhotography.com advertising executives: LINDSAY TRENZ | (530) 889.6178 lindsay@sacramentoparent.com CHERYL WAPLES | (530) 889.6176 cheryl@sacramentoparent.com

BILLING QUESTIONS

Shelly Bokman | (530) 889.6175 shelly@sacramentoparent.com CALENDAR & WEBSITE calendar@sacramentoparent.com EVENTS events@sacramentoparent.com

If you are looking at child care and preschool options flip to our round-up on page 25. It’s also time to get cracking on your summer camp plans so take notice as you are reading...you’ll find a wide variety to choose from within the pages of Sacramento Parent.

Don’t forget to check out the Cover Kid Search winner and finalists on page 18, not only are they adorable, but super imaginative, too! We had a blast with spunky Ella, her family and Crystal Jones Photography as we walked around Downtown Roseville for this month’s cover photo shoot!

Cheers to spring!

Shannon & the Sac Parent team

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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.

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safety 101

TEACHING CHILDREN TO BIKE SAFELY

By Rob Baquera, Public Information Officer Roseville Police Department

Spring is in the air. The sun is out, the weather is warm, and your children are anxious to dust off their bikes and go for a ride. But wait! Make sure your children know how to be safe when out on their bikes. According to kidshealth.org, 300,000 kids a year visit the emergency room for bike related injuries, and at least 10,000 kids sustain injuries that require a few days in the hospital.

Unfortunately, some injuries are so severe that children even die (usually due to head injuries).

So before your child heads out with their bicycle, make sure he/she knows how to be safe on the road.

Safe Riding Tips for Children Wear a properly fitted bike helmet EVERY TIME YOU RIDE, even if you are going for a short ride. Protect your brain, save your life . By law, bicycle riders under 18 years old must wear a bicycle helmet while riding on a public road (CVC §21212).

Ensure your bicycle is the right size and properly adjusted to fit you.

A properly-fitted bicycle is more comfortable and easier to control.

A bicycle shop can help adjust your bike to fit correctly.

Do a safety check on your bike before you ride. Inflate your tires and check your brakes. (Per CVC §21201(a), it is unlawful to operate a bicycle that is not equipped with functioning brakes.)

See and be seen. Wear bright colors when riding and put reflectors on your bike. This will help other people on the road see you. If they see you, they are less apt to run into you.

Consider putting restrictions on where your kids are allowed to ride their bike and how far they’re allowed to go. Children under 10 should ride on the sidewalk. Teach them to yield to pedestrians.

Watch and avoid road hazards. Be on the lookout for hazards such as potholes, broken glass, gravel, etc.

Avoid riding at night. It is far more dangerous to ride at night than during the day. If you must ride at night, make sure you have reflectors as well as a bright light on the front.

As a parent, what else can you do to help ensure the safety of bicycle riders? Here are some tips on how to safely share the road with bicycle riders.

Drive cautiously. Reduce your speed when encountering cyclists. Don’t tailgate! Give the cyclist space.

Yield to the cyclist. Bicycles are considered vehicles so give them the appropriate right of way.

Be considerate. Don’t blast your horn in close proximity to cyclists. Watch for cyclists when opening your door.

Pass with care. Allow at least three feet between your vehicle and the bicyclist. If you are unable to pass within three feet of space, pass at a safe speed to not endanger the bicyclist.

Watch for children. Children on bicycles are often unpredictable. Expect the unexpected and slow down. Don’t expect children to know traffic laws. Children and also be harder to see due to their size.

Riding a bicycle is great exercise and a lot of fun. However, it can also be dangerous. Take time to teach your child the rules of the road, and how to be safe when out bike riding. It will be time well spent, and you’ll be more at ease knowing your child knows how to ride their bike safely on their own.

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2019

C A M P

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MARCH 2019 sacramentoparent.com

888-909-2822

Away Camp: Letting Go Helps Kids Grow

C A M P

By Gayla Grace Sleep-away camp was just what Ally needed in order to gain independence and confidence, marveled her mom, Sharon.

"She found a whole new group of girls and had a ball; she's had a hard time with girls beginning in fourth grade," Sharon says, "so it was great for her to bond with girls in a different setting." Starting at nine years old, Ally went away to camp for a week. The following summer she begged for it to be four weeks. Her parents were delighted.

Time away from parents helps kids learn how to make their own decisions without checking with Mom or Dad first, and residential camp provides the perfect training ground, says Michael Thompson in his book, Homesick and Happy: How Time Away From Parents Can Help a Child Grow.

To find a camp that fits your child's needs, seek out opinions from friends and neighbors, ask teachers and church counselors, attend camp fairs and explore options on your own. Residential camps of all kinds and sizes are located all across the country, so there's sure to be one your child can love and from which he can gain valuable skills.

If you'd like your kids to develop maturity and gain independence (and if you'd like to begin learning to let go yourself!) it's time to start researching sleep-away camps. Week- or month-long adventures away from home give kids opportunities to experience unique adventures they'd never find at home. Asking other parents what camps their kids attend can be helpful also; having a friend go with your child is a beautiful thing for parents leery of separation.

Camp counselor Jamie Newman expresses enthusiasm for sending kids to camp. "Camp encourages kids to try new things and teaches them confidence through new experiences. They learn valuable life lessons when encouraged to work through their fears to try something even if it doesn't feel comfortable to them. Also, when kids are thrown together in a cabin for a week, they're forced to learn how to get along with others and often build lasting relationships that can continue when they return home."

NEED MORE CONVINCING? HERE ARE A FEW THOUGHTS TO CONSIDER: 1) Camp builds maturity and allows children the chance to make their own decisions in a safe, caring environment. Kids benefit from new relationships with camp counselors who care about them and want to help them with everyday struggles.

Sleep Away continued on page 11

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C A M P

10 MARCH 2019 sacramentoparent.com

Sleep Away continued from page 9

C A M P

2) Camp forces kids to unplug from technology and enjoy the beauty and benefits of nature. Through outside activities, kids find new hobbies without academic pressure or expectations. Kids gain self-confidence through trying new things and discovering talents they didn't know they had.

3) Camp teaches good sportsmanship by encouraging each child to be fair and kind. Team activities teach kids how to cooperate with each other and the value of getting along with others though working together and supporting one another.

4) Camp fosters new friendships with kids who come from varying backgrounds—helping kids gain an understanding of how others live outside their community. In a relaxed atmosphere, kids easily make friends while they play, sing, work, eat and bunk together.

5) Camps creates lifelong memories of new adventures in places they've never experienced before. Camp offers carefree days where kids can learn how to thrive outside the structure of over-scheduled days.

PARENTS AND "CHILD SICKNESS"

TIPS FOR LETTING GO

When it comes to sending a child to sleep-away camp, plenty of parents say, "Well, she's ready for camp, but I'm not ready for her to leave!" According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, homesickness is defined as "distress and functional impairment caused by an actual or anticipated separation from home and attachment objects such as parents." For child sickness, the same can be true except it pertains to what parents experience when their child is away. Those who suffer from the condition feel some form of anxiety, sadness and nervousness, and most distinctly, obsessive preoccupation with thoughts of their child.

Let your child have trial runs being away from you by permitting sleepovers.

"Parents today are more anxious than their peers were 20 and 30 years ago," says Peg Smith, CEO of the American Camp Association. "That said, the partnerships between parents and camp directors have increased. Parents should share their concerns with camp directors who are prepared to respond with responsible, informed answers."

Remember: two of the greatest gifts you can give your child are confidence and independence.

Don't show anxiety to your child—it will make it hard on him.

Have a plan for yourself: Get a project done that you've never had time for, go on a trip with your spouse, etc.

Gayla Grace is a writer and mom to five who sends her kids to away camp every summer.

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C A M P

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12 MARCH 2019 sacramentoparent.com

“The Having of Wonderful Ideas”

Learning through expedition, exploration, and dead fish

By Becki Robins

Twenty-four kids and a handful of parents stand on a rocky island on the ambling Yuba River. One of the adults reaches into the chilly water and pulls out a very large, very dead fish. He holds it up with both hands.

Eyes widen. Noses wrinkle. A few of the kids inch forward to get a better look.

The teacher points to the mouth, the dorsal fin, and the battered tail. It’s a female chinook salmon, he explains. You can tell by the absence of a hooked upper jaw, and the tail is a clue, too. When female salmon spawn, they use their tails to clear sediment so they’ll have a safe place to leave their eggs. Often, that leaves them with a battered tail.

Then he asks if anyone wants to touch the fish. The response is a nearly unanimous “eewww,” but a few of the bolder kids creep forward with a single index finger poised for cold, slimy horror.

This is expeditionary learning. The kids are fourth grade students at Grass Valley Charter, a kindergarten through eighth grade school in Grass Valley, California.

On this sunny day in early November, their classroom is the Yuba River. To get to school this morning, they caravaned down to the riverbank in parent-volunteer vehicles, fidgeted through a safety lesson, and then climbed on board inflatable rafts. Today they won’t just talk about the river, they’ll have a first-hand experience on it.

“Kids need to be in nature,” says Mary Lehmberg, the Expeditionary Learning Education Instructional Guide at Grass Valley Charter School. “They need to be part of the world.” That’s the goal of the expeditionary learning model—give kids memorable, hands-on, out-in-the-world experiences, and the things they learn are

more likely to stick.

Grass Valley Charter follows a curriculum created by the K-12 non-profit, EL Education. EL Education works with over 150 schools in more than 600 districts nationwide, serving a total of around 50,000 students. The expeditionary learning model EL Education promotes is really just an expansion of what science teachers already do in their classrooms by engaging kids in experiments and other activities that emphasize experience over book learning. But EL schools go beyond classroom activities to immerse kids in the experience of scientific observation, by getting them outside into nature, where science takes on real-world meaning.

The expeditionary learning model was developed in 1991 as a collaboration between Outward Bound, USA, which provides shorter-term outdoor adventure courses for kids and adults, and the Harvard Graduate School. “It was done in an effort to bridge the gap between exploration and education,” says Grass Valley Charter School principal Scott Maddock.

The founders’ goal was to create a learning model that could be used throughout a child’s education, from kindergarten onwards.

EL Education isn’t just about academics.

The model combines adventure and expedition with character-building, and encourages students to work on character traits like “diversity and inclusion,” “service and compassion,” and “the having of wonderful ideas.” Maddock says EL schools are focused not only on helping students become effective learners, but also ethical people. “Contributing to a better world is something we talk and walk,” he says. At EL schools, classes are called “crew,” and the kids are encouraged to verbally sup-

port and appreciate each other, self-assess, and set attainable goals. Maddock says all of this helps create a sense of belonging for the kids.

Fieldwork is a big part of the EL model, so kids can expect to embark on an outing at least a couple of times a month, sometimes as often as weekly. And fieldwork often takes the students to destinations that have price tags, so fundraising is a big part of what keeps EL schools functioning.

Parents chip in, too, by paying annual “expedition dues” that range from $100 to $400 per year per child, depending on grade. Families can pay their dues in monthly installments, and scholarships are also available. And parents are expected to contribute gas money, and/or volunteer to drive on fieldwork whenever they can, so the schools rarely have to use buses or public transportation. It is a greater commitment for parents and students than a traditional school, both in terms of cost and time, but EL Education works to create schools that are accessible for kids from all backgrounds.

There’s really no way to duplicate these experiences in the classroom—it’s the difference between watching a teacher point to the parts of a salmon on a whiteboard, and rafting down a river so you can look at the parts of a salmon in real life. For many Charter kids, the experience they’ll have on the banks of the Yuba River at age nine will become a cherished memory that they’ll carry into adulthood, while the whiteboard drawing probably wouldn’t have made it to the next Thursday.

It’s an upstream journey, just as it is for any kid, but those using the EL Learning model give kids a drive to discover, they hope, will last their whole lives.

If you are interested in exploring more about the EL Education curriculum you can find this article posted at SacramentoParent.com with a complete source list.

sacramentoparent.com MARCH 2019 13

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14 MARCH 2019 sacramentoparent.com

homeschool adventures

Embracing Impromptu Learning Moments

By Kaleena Amuchastegui Once a self declared “anti-homeschool” mom, I would think: Those parents are certifiably insane to have their kids home all day...what in the world are they going to learn?! More importantly what would I even teach them?

Fast-forward and look at me now! I am homeschooling our four little humans and honestly, living a life that involves much more education and happiness than all the prior years combined! However that does not mean this journey is always a walk in the park, because let's be honest, it’s not! Just like anything worth doing, this journey comes with ups and downs, constant change and sometimes it can feel overwhelming. But like many other things, I think we tend to make it more complicated and stressful than it needs to be. I want to share what changed. What made us go from “anti” to on board with homeschooling.

I didn’t pull my kids out of school to be a discontent, miserable mama who felt like she was sacrificing her life and happiness to educate her kids. I actually chose a homeschooling life because the school was getting the best of my kids, and I was getting the leftovers. I knew we could spend more time on the things that would bring actual value and spark passion in our lives. I wanted to create awesome memories and raise confident, independent and capable adults. I was eager to foster passionate learners instead of learning for the sake of passing a test.

I’m definitely not an expert, but along the way I’m figuring out how to “hack” this process to make it more enjoyable, and I know you can do the same! Take a deep breath, and relax...it's time to enjoy your homeschooling adventure.

You do not need to sit your kids at the kitchen table for six hours a day and “teach” them. I’ve realized that in a fraction of the time that kids spend in a traditional school class they will learn the equivalent to the traditional material, and far more of the life lessons you are hoping for. Even better they may actually retain the information!

Define what is important to you? Why did you start this journey? What were you hoping to accomplish?

What about your kids? What is important to them?

What are they hoping to gain from a homeschool experience?

Building a relationship with my kids was MOST important when we started this. So when I got my mornings back with them, I went from being a chaotic mom packing lunches and yelling to get shoes on, to a mama who enjoys morning conversations and having well rested kiddos!

Maybe it sounds crazy, but I love to ask our kids at least once a month: What do you want to learn? Then really focus on that. Letting my kids lead the way is showing me what passionate learners actually look like. If you have come from a traditional classroom setting, be prepared to deschool a bit before they readily jump in. It can be difficult to self direct after having someone control your every movement. The first few months we spent strictly detoxing from our previous years in a desk.

A few times a month we sit around a big white board and I ask the question: What do YOU want to learn? Or I pull from a list of questions or conversations we have had over the last few weeks that I felt they were expressing interest in. For example; Charlotte asked how gasoline worked in cars as I was filling up one day, what a fun lesson that turned into!

You don’t have to be an overly organized person. My home doesn’t look like the most recent episode of Hoarders, but organization is not my superpower! So I keep it simple. I wake at least an hour before my kids, to properly caffeinate and prepare the “buffet of learning”.

Which is our fancy name for the way I set the kitchen table. This is where our kids find all the things they will need for the day.

Stop focusing on what you didn’t get done. Start focusing on all you accomplished, the memories you made and the impromptu learning moments that happened.

Because let's be honest: the way we learn best will rarely be written down in a curriculum or on a to-do list. It will happen in the moment, when a question is asked and you actively search the answer. Or when an event occurs that sparks a new curiosity.

Sure having a plan is great, but be okay if it changes.

Homeschool continued on page 17

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16 MARCH 2019 sacramentoparent.com

homeschool adventures Homeschool continued from page 15

Get comfortable saying YES! Yes you can only study only language arts today and save math for tomorrow.

Yes you can study on the couch.

Yes you can save reading until later and go play outside.

Yes you can find the answer by yourself (because YES you are capable).

Yes you can start that experiment.

Yes you can listen to music while you work.

Yes you can stand while working on your math.

Say yes as much as possible and be intentional with the no’s! I feel like the word NO is a trap we fall into as parents. When I started doing this I realized I often said “no” for no legitimate reason. With every no I could be missing a learning opportunity for my kids so I say yes, unless of course it could cause harm.

It's going to be a beautiful mess! Not everyday will look the same. You will not cross everything off your list on the days you really want to. You may have to mix it up several times before you find the rhythm that works for you. The rhythm my change.

Remain flexible...stay strong in the knowledge that no one knows your kids the way you do....and that every opportunity is a learning opportunity.

A recovering workaholic turned author Kaleena walked away from her busy real estate business to step into a role she had never imagined...becoming a homeschool mama of four and creating the 5 Hour School Week! Her book, “The 5 Hour School Week An Inspirational Guide to Leaving the Classroom to Embrace Learning in a Way you Never Imagined” has become an Amazon Best Seller and is inspiring parents around the world to live their very best life, with their children! With a passion for travel and adventure she turns everyday lessons into exciting and impactful family memories. Kaleena is always seeking personal self growth and loves the life long journey of learning, cultivating meaningful relationships and seeking to inspire. Halfway across the world or at home snuggled with kids on the couch, this mom loves living a big life and creating magical memories with her family. You can follow The 5 Hour School Week at and become part of the community at www.fivehourschoolweek.com, on Facebook and Instagram (5 Hour School Week).

sacramentoparent.com MARCH 2019 17

Meet our Cover Kid Search Winner, Ella!

By Shannon Smith Photographs by Crystal Jones Photography, www.CrystalJonesPhotography.com

18 MARCH 2019 sacramentoparent.com

W

ith an infectious smile that dazzled the camera at our Cover Kid Search event, we were happy to see that two-year-old, Ella was just as bubbly, bright and cheery when we met up with Crystal Jones Photography for the cover photo shoot for this issue. She was excited to take pictures, dance around, make faces and be a star while her brother, parents and grandma proudly cheered her on.

Her mom shares, “She is so funny and will catch you off guard with some of her comments.” Ummmm….yep, she certainly was not holding back with adorable friendly chatter as we made our way around Downtown Roseville.

We asked Ella’s mom, Holly to share some of Ella’s favorite things and here is what she had to say about the spunky two-year-old from Antelope. Ella loves to color, take care of her baby dolls and make food in her pretend kitchen. She especially likes the color red, her favorite animal is a bear and she really likes the Disney Jr. character, Vampirina (which she pronounces, Gramparina). She likes to eat soup and bread and enjoys playing with playdough. She loves her older brother, Leo (she would have had him in all her pictures if she could) and she has fun rough housing with their family dog, a Labrador Retriever.

Ella loves to chat, she is full of ideas and Holly often hears her enter a room and say, “Kids listen, I have an idea…”. She’s also quite the dancer, she loves to dance in her carseat and every song that comes on is “her song”. She’s very caring and is sure to put her baby dolls to bed every night. She knows two languages (Armenian and English) and already knows all her body parts, the whole alphabet, can count to 10 and recognizes numbers, too!

We are so glad Ella’s mom was watching Good Day Sacramento when we were announcing the Cover Kid Search and that they decided to come out and enter this year, she rocked it in her cute boots!

Of course, choosing one winner at this event is always SO INCREDIBLY TOUGH and we met over 90 amazing kids this year! In case you missed the gallery of participants, we wanted to share some of our other favorite photogenic kiddos from the day! In no particular order, here are our amazing finalists.

Cover Kid continued on page 20 sacramentoparent.com MARCH 2019 19

Aiden

Aiden turns five this month!

Happy Birthday Aiden! Aiden likes the color red, he loves to eat chicken and pretending to be different dinosaurs. We asked Aiden what his superpower would be and his mom said, “The ability to turn into any animal because then he could scare all the bad guys.”

Aiden looked like a natural in front of the camera, what a great smile!

Swaraat

Swaraat is a happy, friendly, fourteen month-old boy. He loves his toys and books and reading time is one of his favorite activities. Swaraat also enjoys independent playtime, going out for drives, playing on the swings at the park and getting cuddled by his mom and dad.

He likes to eat rice, yogurt and blueberries and he is attracted to the color yellow!

Alexia

Kensley

20 MARCH 2019 sacramentoparent.com

Alexia recently turned three and can’t wait to start reading.

She even chose reading as her superpower wish. She really likes the color purple, dancing and playing with her little sister.

She also enjoys eating blueberries and tomatoes. We couldn’t help but notice her great curls, too!

Kensley is fifteen months old and her mom thinks she would choose to have a superpower that has to do with dancing.

She shares, “She dances all the time and loves it!” Kensley really likes the colors pink and gold, dancing (yep, we’ll say it one more time) and gymnastics. She loves blueberries and mac’n cheese. Sounds like Kensley has great taste!

Layla

Layla is two and a half, she loves the color yellow and her favorite thing to eat is scrambled eggs and avocado. She also really enjoys gymnastics. When we asked her what superpower she would love to have she said, “To be a Disney Princess, because they get to wear princess dresses and sing songs every day.”

Layla is all about the princesses these days and it’s no surprise that she was looking like royalty at the Cover Kid Search.

Mila is eight months old. Her mom thinks that Mila’s superpower would be, “to be able to get anywhere her curious mind desires without the hassle of crawling. Less baby steps...more exploring!” (Plus, there’s the added bonus of being able to fly away from Mama and Daddy when she’s getting into things she shouldn’t be, like the kitchen cabinets.) Mila’s attracted to bright colors and likes to eat just about anything, EXCEPT carrots! She also loves to sing!

A few of her current favorite songs are Old MacDonald and The Wheels on the Bus. Her mom adds, “She even sings herself to sleep which is absolutely adorable”. Her “sissy,” Aria has also been a Cover Kid Finalist in the past.

Mila

Two-year-old, King has been a finalist before, we are glad he made it back this year. His mom shares, “We almost didn’t make it this year because King wet his pants and I couldn’t find another pair in his backpack. Luckily as I was looking everywhere in my car I found his swim trunks wedged between the seats. We ran in for the last hour. I let my six month-old daughter take pictures first who usually smiles all the time. She was doing tummy time which is not her favorite, then King ran up to the little ladder and stood on it and started smiling, laughing and yelling. He was so comfortable and happy I couldn’t believe it!”

Just like last year, it’s like he knew what he was doing. He loves animals and music just like his mama. And dinosaurs, playdough and cars are some of his favorites at the moment.

King

Valeriya

Austin

Luke

This five-year-old’s sweet personality was beaming in front of the camera. In addition to her sweet personality, she seems to have a sweet tooth and loves ice cream, cake and pancakes. We get it Valeriya, who doesn’t? Her superpower would be to fly, but she adds, “I’d also like to be very strong so I can protect people�.

Valeriya also enjoys coloring and watching movies with her family.

Austin is two and a half years old and has quite the imagination. When we asked him what his superpower would be, he said, “I have blue superpowers. You can’t see it, it’s under here [rubs arm]. I can build things. All of them.� We loved his style at the event and we learned that he really likes to eat cucumbers and his favorite color is purple. He also has a little sister (sissy) that he adores and he is always up for playing with his toys.

Schedule a Tour Today!

• K-8 Public Charter School • Small Class Sizes • Full-Day Kindergarten • Core Knowledge Curriculum • Project Based Learning

2213 Sunset Blvd Rocklin, CA 95765

www.placeracademy.org

This seventeen month-old is really into monster trucks.

He loves his Daddy’s monster truck and goes around saying “vroom, vroom� like the truck.

Considering how excited he gets when he sees big trucks, you might be able to guess what his superpower would be.

Luke would choose to transform into a monster truck! He can often be spotted driving around the park in his little Jeep. He also loves the color blue and to eat mandarins (lots of them)!

Thanks to all that came out to Babies and Bumps and participated in the Cover Kid Search! It’s so much fun to meet the kiddos and their families. We will be doing it again on November 16, 2019 at the Citrus Heights Community Center, so save the date...we can’t wait to see you there! sacramentoparent.com MARCH 2019 21

Activities for All Abilities Greater Sacramento offers many programs and activities for all abilities, from equestrian therapy to camps to modified team sports, here are some of the many options that may be a good fit for your child.

ADAPTIVE HORSEMANSHIP/ THERAPEUTIC RIDING HOPE4HORSES | GALT https://Hope4Horses.com/therapeutic-riding HORSES FOR HEALING | AUBURN http://HorsesForHealing.org HORSEPLAY THERAPEUTIC RIDING CENTER DIXON https://HorseplayRiding.org LAKESIDE THERAPEUTIC RIDING CENTER GRANITE BAY http://lLkesideEquestrianCenter.com/lakeside-therapeutic-riding PROJECT R.I.D.E. | ELK GROVE www.ProjectRIDE.org RIDE AND SHINE | SHINGLE SPRINGS www.nchpad.org/Directories/Programs/7999/ Ride~and~Shine~Adaptive~Horseback~Riding~Program RIDE TO WALK | LINCOLN www.RideToWalk.org UCP SADDLE PALS | GRASS VALLEY http://UCPSacto.org/programs-services/saddle-pals

INDOOR RECREATION & MONTHLY ACTIVITIES SACRAMENTO CHILDREN’S MUSEUM RANCHO CORDOVA SCM brings families monthly programs and events for children with special needs like ExplorABILITY and Beary Special Play Date. Space is limited so you’ll want to register ahead of time for these free special events. https://SacKids.org SKY HIGH SPORTS | RANCHO CORDOVA Every Tuesday, Sky High Sports turns off the music, dims the lights and dials down the distractions for the comfort of their jumpers. https://Sac.SkyHighSports.com/things-to-do/special-needs-jump-time SKY ZONE | ROCKLIN Enjoy the freedom of jumping. Sensory hours provide a quieter, toned-down jumping experience for those with special needs. www.SkyZone.com/programs/sensory-hours

22 MARCH 2019 sacramentoparent.com

SPORTS, MOVEMENT & OUTDOOR

SUMMER CAMPS

ACCESS LEISURE PROGRAM | SACRAMENTO A variety of recreational and competitive sports, social and leisure functions, and outdoor educational, and residential and day camping adventures. www.CityofSacramento.org/parksandrec/recreation/access-leisure

ACCESS LEISURE CAMPS www.CityofSacramento.org/ParksandRec/Recreation/Access-Leisure/Camps

There are several day and overnight camp options specifically for children with special needs.

Here are a few camps in to get you started and some sites where you can search for even more!

SACRAMENTO CHALLENGE SPORTS Team sports for school age athletes from five years-old to young adult with developmental disabilities and/or physical disabilities. www.ChallengeSports.org

BREAKAWAY http://BreakawayKidsCamps.com/special-needs/

THE AQUA STARS | LOOMIS Sea Otter Swim Lessons are specially designed to benefit children and adults with a range of special needs including autism, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, down syndrome, sensory disorders, and visual impairment. www.SeaOtterSwim.com/adaptive-swim-lessons

TALISMAN SUMMER CAMPS https://Talismancamps.com/autism-summer-camp/autism-summer-camp-california/

SUNSATIONAL SWIM SCHOOL | YOUR POOL Bring the Swim School to your pool with special needs swim instructors. www.SunsationalSwimSchool.com/special-needsswim-lessons WE ROCK THE SPECTRUM KID’S GYM PLACERVILLE A safe, nurturing, and fun environment to foster learning, exploration and safe sensory experiences. Through their nonprofit My Brother Rocks The Spectrum Foundation, they provide social skills groups and activities for children across the spectrum. www.WeRockTheSpectrumPlacerville.com

CAMP TUOLUMNE TRAILS www.TuolumneTrails.org/

UCP’S ACE CAMP http://UCPSacto.org/programs-services/a-c-ecamp/ VIA WEST CAMP www.ViaServices.org/services/via-west/summer SEARCH FOR MORE CAMPS... http://Find.ACACamps.org www.MySummerCamps.com/camps/Special_ Needs_Camps www.VerySpecialCamps.com

Raising a child with special needs?

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

SPRING BREAK CAMP APRIL 15ďšş19 is now offering a full range of newborn hearing screening and diagnostic services.

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 as well as coordinate professional services as required.

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

7:30am-6pm

$150

Mention this ad for $10 OFF

916.371.2386

2939 Promenade St. West Sacramento

with purchase of any bounce party

Coupon must be used at time of booking. Expires 3/31/19

www.TheBounceSpot.com

Educational Supplies for Parents, Teachers & Homeschoolers

2019

SOURCE Book OUT NOW! who to call | where to go | what to do

Be sure to pick it up!

It's your FREE go-to guide for local families.

SacramentoParent.com

sacramentoparent.com MARCH 2019 23

Whispering Oak Montessori Academy Fostering Growth, Nurturing Peace, Inspiring Curiosity

Granite Bay Montessori

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

Are you searching for something more than just 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.

Full Academic Montessori Curriculum Infant/Toddler/Preschool/ Kindergarten (6 weeks to 6 years) Nutritious and Delicious Meals Prepared On-Site Art & Music Appreciation Spanish, French and Mandarin Languages 8085 Oak Avenue Citrus Heights CA

916.722.8118 916.722.1181

Enrollment Now Open Preschool at Camellia Waldorf School provides a quality foundation for your child’s first school experience, helping them develop a love of learning, real interest, and an exceptional preparation for life.

Our program fosters creativity, cooperation, and imagination. It is play and nature-based.

A nonprofit, independent school, fully accredited by the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America

24 MARCH 2019 sacramentoparent.com

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

WWW.GBMONTESSORI.COM

2019 2017 GUIDE TO PRESCHOOLS & CHILDCARE Building Kidz School Greater Sacramento Metro Area | 916-250-1455 2-6 years FT, PT, Drop In, Infant Centers Coming Soon Hours (Open 6 days a week*) Monday-Thursday 7am – 7pm Friday 7am – 9pm | Saturday** 9am – 10pm Specializing in performance arts to enhance academic excellence.

We provide experiences stimulating every child’s growth, building Confidence, Commitment, and Character! www.BuildingKidzSchool.com

Camellia Waldorf School

Brookfield School Sacramento | 916-442-1255 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

Sacramento | 916-427-5022

Child Action, Inc.

Preschool at Camellia Waldorf School provides a quality foundation for your child’s first school experience, helping them develop a love of learning, real interest, and an exceptional preparation for life.

Our program fosters creativity, cooperation, and imagination. It is play and nature-based.

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.

Sacramento | 916-369-0191

www.ChildAction.org

www.CamelliaWaldorf.org

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

Children’s Choice for Hearing and Talking Sacramento (CCHAT)

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. Go to http://cdicdc.org for more details.

Rancho Cordova | 916-361-7290

www.CDICDC.org

www.CCHATsacramento.org

Consumnes CSD Tiny Tot Preschools

Granite Bay Montessori

Mon-Fri, 8:30am to 4pm, Birth to 8 years-old CCHAT is a listening and spoken language early intervention program which teaches children who are deaf or hard-of-hearing to listen and talk.

Elk Grove | 916-405-5311

Granite Bay | 916-791-7849

Mon-Fri, 8:30am-11:30am, 12:30pm-3:30pm | 3 to 5 years-old

Mon-Fri, 7am to 6:30pm, 2 years to 8th grade

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.

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

KidsPark Rocklin | 916-624-2344 KidsPark is a unique HOURLY childcare with a safe and fun environment for children ages 2 to 11 years-old. Open 90 hours a week for hourly care. Award winning Preschool education, M-F, 9am to noon for ages 2 to 5. www.KidsPark.com

www.GbMontessori.com

The Learning Years Academy Rancho Cordova | 916-635-4085 Year round Preschool and Pre-K Programs (Ages 2 and up) Providing academics and play in a structured, “hands on” environment, where students can learn while having fun with friends. Low teacher/child ratios. Nutritious meals.

Follow us on YELP Guide continued on page 27 sacramentoparent.com MARCH 2019 25

26 MARCH 2019 sacramentoparent.com

Guide continued from page 25

Little Folks University

Merryhill School

Folsom | 916-985-7055

Greater Sacramento | 877-959-4187

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.

Merryhill Preschools, Elementary and Middle schools in the Sacramento area offer children a supportive environment where they can grow, excel and prepare for the next stage in their education. Please call (877) 959-4187 or visit DiscoverMerryhill. com to schedule a tour.

www.LittleFolksU.com

River City Christian Preschool Rancho Cordova | 916-861-1625 A warm and caring traditional preschool program featuring small classes and hands-on learning. Half-days, two, three, and five day programs for ages 2.5 - 5 including Transitional Kindergarten.

Optional extended care available. www.RiverCityChristian.org/preschool

http://DiscoverMerryhill.com

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

Sunrise Recreation and Park District Preschools Antelope | Citrus Heights | Foothill Farms | 916-725-1585 2, 3, and 4 day options 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

Trustline Serving the State of California | 800-822-8490 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? www.Trustline.org

sacramentoparent.com MARCH 2019 27

C H E R I S H I N G C H I L D H O O D RIVER CITY CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL • LEARNING BY DOING

{for the 2019-2020 school year}

Call today to arrange a tour!

Half-day program for children ages 2.5 to 5.

Summer session, too!

sity curio e t a We celebr

and encour age p roble m-solving.

10933 Progress Ct. Rancho Cordova

916.861.1625 RiverCityChristian.org/Preschool 28 MARCH 2019 sacramentoparent.com

Guide continued from page 27

The Learning Years Academy Preschool AG E S 2 TO F I R ST G R A D E

Warner’s Country Day School Granite Bay | 916-797-0222 Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:00pm, 2-5 years old A beautiful country farm setting where children can explore nature, receive excellent academic preparation, and celebrate childhood daily. www.GraniteBayCountryDaySchool.com

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

Children Love To Learn

Whispering Oak Montessori Citrus Heights | 916-722-8118 Monday-Friday, 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.

lic #343612257

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

www.WhisperingOakMontessori.com

sacramentoparent.com MARCH 2019 29

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

sunday

saturday

1

2

3

Baby Lapsit

Dr. Seuss’ Birthday Celebration

Creature Feature: Amphibians

10:30am & 11:30 am at Rocklin Library

11am at Fairytale Town

1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center

Books, songs, rhymes and playtime.

(Ages 0-24 months) www.Placer.Ca.Gov/Departments/ Library

Come for Seuss-themed activities around the park and a nonstop readaloud of favorite Seuss books. www.FairytaleTown.org

Meet two amphibian animal residents at the center up close and learn about their unique journeys. www.SacNatureCenter.net

time_id=239679530287018

www.SacLibrary.org

Rockin’ Fridays

16

Little leprechauns will love this Family Story Time 9 10:30am at Folsom Library charming round-up of March 8Toddler Story Hour “When We Were Colored” Book Hear a story, then stay and enjoy the at Sacramento Country Day Reading events, including St. Patrick’s 9am library.

Enjoy stories, songs and more. Snacks 11am at Robbie Waters Pocket-Greenhaven www.Folsom.Ca.Us Day festivities, Dr. Seuss’ Library and coffee available for participants.

Join Ginger Rutland for a special 0-4) birthday celebrations, nature (Ages 10 www.Facebook.com/ reading and discussion of the book Planetarium Show events/239679523620352/?event_ and the play. outings and more.

1pm & 3pm at Powerhouse Science Center 8pm at Rockin’ Jump Roseville

Jump and dance the night away to top hits played by a weekly guest DJ. (Ages 11-17) https://RockinJump.com

15 Disco Tubing, March 16th

7pm at Roller King

11am at Old Sacramento Waterfront

Roller skate the night away to fun tunes. www.RollerKingRoseville.com

See colorful marchers dressed in green, along with Irish and Highland dancers, pipe and drum bands, historic reenactors and a variety of cultural organizations. (Parade at 1pm.) www.Facebook.com/ events/784840545228188/

Kids ages 7 and under will have a blast bouncing out their energy. www.BounceU.com/ Rancho-Cordova-ca

22 Family Ice Skate Sessions 2pm & 7pm at Skatetown Ice Arena

Ice skate with other families that have small kids from 2-5pm and 7-10pm on Fridays. www.Skatetown.biz/ PublicSessionSchedule

29 Toddler Story Hour 9am at Sacramento Country Day

Enjoy stories, songs and more. Snacks and coffee available for participants.

(Ages 0-4) www.Facebook.com/ events/239679523620352/?event_ time_id=239679530287018 Open Play 9am at Tiny Tumblers

Explore this awesome gym and playroom designed for kids ages 4 and under. http://TinyTumblersOnline.com 30 MARCH 2019 sacramentoparent.com

Disco tube down SnoVentures to music, LED lights and lasers. https://SquawAlpine.com 23rd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade

10am at BounceU of Rancho Cordova

Open Play at Little Kingdom, March 25th

5pm at Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows

Family Skate Night

Open Bounce

Open Play at The Art Box, March 19th

Disco Tubing

Lucky Leprechaun Kids Night Out 6pm at Tricks Gymnastics

Drop the kids off for 3 hours of play, bounce house fun, games, obstacle courses, crafts and pizza. Check website for locations. http://TricksGym.com

23 57th Annual Gem, Jewelry, Fossil and Mineral Show 10am at @ the Grounds (3/23-24)

Over 60 vendor exhibits with crystals, beads, jewelry, gemstones and more. www.RockRollers.com

30 Earth Fest 9am at Sacramento Zoo

Learn how to protect and preserve the earth, enjoy cultural dance performances and observe animals. www.SacZoo.org Superhero Day 10am at Fairytale Town

Celebrate the day with crafts and meet your favorite superheroes. Come dressed in capes and masks. www.FairytaleTown.org

Explore outer space during this educational planetarium show. Free with admission. https://PowerhouseSC.org Early Bird Bowling 9am at Strikes Bowling

Play for just $3 per game/$2 for shoes between 9am-12pm. Stay after to have lunch at Halftime Bar & Grill or play in the arcade section. http://StrikesRocklin.com

17 Open Skate 1pm & 3pm at Roller King

Enjoy Sunday with your family by taking them roller skating. 1-4pm and 3-6pm. www.RollerKingRoseville.com Science Sundays 10am at Sacramento Children’s Museum

Explore the world of science with hands-on experiments designed for kids. http://SacKids.org

24 Raptors of the River 1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center

Become raptor experts on local birds of prey. Program includes a presentation, specimens and live raptors. www.SacNatureCenter.net

31 Parent Tot Playtime 11:30am at Mike Shellito Indoor Pool

Children ages 6 and under are invited to swim in the warming pool. Toys provided. $5.00 per adult/child pair. www.Roseville.Ca.Us

monday

thursday

wednesday

tuesday

4

5

6

7

Story Time

Tuesday Train Rides

Free First Wednesdays

Cruise Night at the Squeeze!

10am at Face in a Book

11am and 1pm at California State Railroad Museum

9am at Sacramento Zoo

5pm at Squeeze Burger, Roseville

Children ages 2 to 11 are free with a paid adult on the first Wednesday of each month. www.SacZoo.org

Hot rods, classic and other custom vehicles cruise in to enjoy yummy food in a cool environment. www.Facebook.com/ events/2045281702467835/

Visit this cute bookstore for a weekly story time with songs and fun. www.GetYourFaceInABook.com

All Aboard for Story Time

Take a ride along the Sacramento River. Tickets are first-come, first-served.

Check the website for times and the departure location. www.CaliforniaRailroad.museum

11am at California State Railroad Museum

Open Art Studio

11 Join this world-class museum each Monday for story time. Free with paid museum admission. (Ages 2 to 5) www.CaliforniaRailroad.museum

18 Public Ice Skating Hours 10am at Skatetown

Take your kids ice skating for a special treat! www.Skatetown.biz/ PublicSessionSchedule Open Play 9am at Luv 2 Play

Kids will have a blast at this new indoor playground in Folsom. (Ages 0-12) http://Luv2Play.com

25 Open Play at Little Kingdom 10am at Little Kingdom, Folsom

11am at The Art Bistro

Choose from a variety of art mediums and freely create with your child. $10 fee for entry. Additional fees for materials. (Ages 4+) http://TheArtBistro.com

12 Half Price Game Play All day at Top Golf Roseville

Play golf with the family on Tuesday nights for half the price. http://TopGolf.com Homeschool Day: People 12pm at Crocker Art Museum

After exploring figurative work in the Crocker’s art collection, students work together to draw silhouettes of the human form. http://CrockerArt.org Super Reader Training Camp

A tiny kingdom designed to foster imaginative play and social skills as they explore the various play structures. www.LittleKingdomPlayroom.com

4pm at Rocklin Library

Open Play

Baby Loves Art

9am at Wacky Tacky

Climb, slide and run around inside the giant indoor playground. www.WackyTacky.net

Teen-led literacy practice using stories and games. (Ages 3-6) www.Placer.Ca.Gov

19 10:30am at Crocker Art Museum

A visually stimulating gallery walk designed for babies up to 18 months old. http://CrockerArt.org Open Play Art Exploration

Rockin’ Tots 9am at Rockin’ Jump

Smaller kids are invited to enjoy 2 hours of jump time without the commotion of older kids. https://RockinJump.com

13 Preschool Playgroup 10am at Roseville Utility Exploration Center

Hands-on activities and discovery play. Held the second Wednesday of the month through May. (Ages 0-5) www.Roseville.Ca.Us/ UECPreschool Tinker Time 3pm at Sacramento Children’s Museum

Make, build, invent and solve engineering design challenges during this weekly class. Check website for fees. https://SacKids.org

14 Trap a Leprechaun 4pm at North Highlands-Antelope Library

Build a leprechaun trap with a variety of recyclable materials and gold coins.

Teen and parent volunteers encouraged. Free. www.SacLibrary.org Food Truck Mania 5pm at Vernon Street Town Square

6:30pm at North Sacramento-Hagginwood Library

21

Experience space vacuums, principles of flight and astronaut training. (All ages) www.SacLibrary.org Sky Zone Play 3pm at Sky Zone

Get your wiggles out at this wallto-wall indoor trampoline park, complete with a foam pit and dodge ball court. www.SkyZone.com Wee Wednesday 10:30am & 11am at Crocker Art Museum

26

27

A play-based learning experience that includes story time, a craft, singing and more. (Ages 2-5) http://FairytaleTown.org

Celebrate Dr. Seuss’ 115th birthday by reading and listening to favorite Seuss stories. Cake and refreshments will be served. www.SacLibrary.org

Mad Science: Destination Moon

20

Explore the art studio during open play hours on Tuesdays for $8. Dress for a mess. (18 months to 8 years old) http://ArtBoxFairOaks.com

10am at Fairytale Town

5pm at North Highlands-Antelope Library

Dine outdoors on the second Thursday of each month while listening to live music. www.SactoMofo.com

9am at The Art Box

Toddler Time

Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss!

Read-a-thon and Party

Explore various art mediums with your little one. (Ages 3-5). www.CrockerArt.org

Perry’s Magic Show

Yoga Play 3pm at Sacramento Children’s Museum

Explore posture, balance and breath through games, stories and play. (Ages 4+) https://SacKids.org Family Night 4pm at Sky High Sports

A family of four enjoys jump time, one large pepperoni or cheese pizza and four bottles of water for $35. http://Sac.SkyHighSports.com

28 Toy Time 10am at Folsom Library

Play with a variety of early learning toys. www.Folsom.Ca.Us

4pm at Arden-Dimick Library

Magician Perry Yan gives an interactive magic show for kids of all ages. www.SacLibrary.org

For more events, visit our online calendar at sacramentoparent.com. sacramentoparent.com MARCH 2019 31

calendar/shows

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

Thorn

Disney’s The Little Mermaid

March 1-10 at Harris Center/Three Stages in Folsom Based on the classic animated film, Disney’s The Little Mermaid tells the story of a mermaid who leaves the sea to find true love, featuring favorite songs, colorful costumes and sets. www.HarrisCenter.net

March 15-17 at Destiny Christian Church A visually dynamic and awe-inspiring theatrical portrayal of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Thorn combines martial arts, aerial acrobatics and emotionally stirring performances that have been inspiring audiences across the country for more than 20 years. www.TheThorn.net/buy-tickets/

March 21-24 at Harris Center/Three Stages at Folsom Lake College Spamalot tells the tale of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table as they embark on their quest for the Holy Grail, a journey that encounters flying cows, killer rabbits, Frenchmen, and Tony Award-winning musical numbers. www.HarrisCenter.net

Disney’s Newsies

March 8-17, performed by Roseville Theatre Arts Academy Inspired by a true story, Newsies features a Tony Award-winning score that stole the hearts of movie lovers in the 1992 film. Featuring favorite songs such as “Carrying the Banner,” “Seize the Day,” and “Santa Fe,” Newsies is packed with awesome choreography and an exciting plot for all ages. www.RosevilleTheatreArtsAcademy.com

Dueling Pianos - Lincoln’s 4th of July Fundraiser

March 9 at Lincoln Civic Auditorium Set the stage with two Grand Pianos and two outrageously talented Dueling Pianos Entertainers.

This high energy, all request Dueling Pianos show is a combination of sing a-long, comedy bits, dedications, dancing and most important; audience participation. Request your favorite songs from the 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, 80’s, 90’s to the present. http://LincolnTheatreCompany.org

32 MARCH 2019 sacramentoparent.com

Monty Python’s Spamalot 15th Anniversary World Tour

Cirque du Soleil Crystal

March 27-31 at Golden 1 Center See Cirque du Soleil’s world-class ice skaters and acrobats as they defy gravity and dazzle the audience, masterfully claiming their new frozen playground. www.Golden1Center.com

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Through March 17 at at Sacramento Theatre Company The magical tale concerns two pairs of young lovers lost in the forest, a hopeless troupe of actors, the king and queen of the woodland fairies, and the mischievous sprite Puck, who sprinkles romance and uproarious, free-for-all havoc over everyone. (Middle school and up) http://www.SacTheatre.org/shows/a-midsummer-nights-dream/

Charlotte’s Web

March 16-April 7, presented by B Street Theatre Family Series at The Sofia Tsakopoulos Center for the Arts This classic children’s story, written by E.B. White, tells a delightful story of a pig named Wilbur who becomes best friends with a spider named Charlotte. The two friends go to great lengths to help each other through trials and celebrate in victory. https://BStreetTheatre.org

calendar/exhibits

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

Student and Community Exhibition Through March 31 at Crocker Art Museum

An exhibition of artwork by students in Sacramento-area schools and art organizations. www.CrockerArt.org/Exhibitions Micro Cars March 15-August 5 at California Automobile Museum

More Than Just Scribbles Through March 14, presented by UNIQUE Programs of Sacramento State-University Union Gallery

Explore the creativity and beauty of art inspired by infants, toddlers and preschoolers of Asi’s Children’s Center as they show their unique perception of the world around them. https://TheUniversityUnion.com/Gallery

A unique display of vehicles from the 1940s to the present, including foreign vehicles and others. www.CalAutoMuseum.org Bruce Nauman: Blue and Yellow Corridor Through April 14, 2019 at Jan Shrem and Maria Manetti Shrem Museum of Art, UC Davis

This exhibition features a narrow passageway that wraps around an existing room, using colored lights and video to enhance the viewer’s perceptual experience. https://ManettiShremMuseum.ucdavis.edu

Xicanx Futurity Through May 5 at Jan Shrem and Maria Manetti Shrem Museum of Art, UC Davis

Featuring the work of six Xicana artists, this exhibit shows Indigenous forms of ceremony, rooted in sacred relations. https://ManettiShremMuseum.ucdavis.edu

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Ahh, Spring! That wonderful time of year between the Spring Equinox and Summer Solstice when everything is warmer, colorful and new again. With winter now behind us, it’s time to celebrate. Check out our 12 fun ideas to welcome spring and get this party started.

1. Frog Flop – You will need two green bean bags for each team and one bean bag of any other color for the game.

You can sew on eyes or decorate with a marker to make them look like frog and to differentiate for each team. The first team tosses out the colored bean bag. The object of the game is to get your team’s green bean bags as close to the colored bean bag as possible. One point is given for closest frog. Game continues to 15 points.

2. Make your own spring bingo – This is both an activity and a game. Players are given blank bingo cards (check Etsy or make your own) and spring stickers.

Players can place the stickers in any square on the bingo sheet. When they are done, play the game as normal, calling out the objects found on the stickers.

3. Spring “Hedbanz” – Write spring words like butterfly, tulip, umbrella on separate index cards. Pass out an elastic headband to each player and have them sit in a circle. Players are given a card, but they may not look at it.

Instead, they wear it on their forehead, held in place with the headband, with the word facing out. Players ask and answer yes and no questions to guess what word is on their card.

4. Pick from the Garden – Place suckers (like dum dum pops) in a terracotta pot filled with moss or shredded green paper over a floral brick. The sucker sticks are marked with different color ink. The game can be played as a match game (with a prize given) or as a task game. For a task game, each color sucker stick represents a task category such as singing, drawing or even spelling.

1. Tic Tac Toe – Gather medium sized river stones and let the kids paint them to look like ladybugs and bees.

While they are drying, you can make a board on the back of a small cinch bag with colored tape or markers. When the stones are dry, they can be stored inside the bag so they are ready to play when you are.

2. Jelly Bean Towers – Pick up jelly beans and toothpicks at the store.

Place kids in groups and have them construct a platform. When they are finished, give the kids ballots to vote for best in several categories. Give prizes for the highest, strongest and most unique designs.

3. Crystal Rainbows – You will need glass jars, multicolor pipe cleaners, Borax, hot water and dowel rods. Wrap the top part of several pipe cleaners around a dowel rod that will lay flat across the opening of the jar. Mix 3 tablespoons of Borax in a cup of boiling water. Pour mixture into jars and insert pipe cleaners into jar. Crystals will start forming overnight. Remove when covered in crystals and let dry.

4. Canvas painting class – This is a spin off the paint and sip events for adults. Give all the kids a canvas, a brush and paint needed for the project.

Have someone lead the group by showing everyone a step by step process to create a spring painting. Not sure how to do it? Check out YouTube for suggestions and a step by step guide.

1. It’s for the birds – Oriental Trading or local craft stores like Jo-Ann or Michaels offer unfinished birdhouses and bird feeders. Gather decorating options such as paint, glitter, jewels, ribbons and whatever other items you think will attract the birds. Let dry and hang from a tree near the window.

2. Make a kite – A windy spring day is a wonderful time to make a kite.

You can use craft store dowel rods or collect small branches that have fallen from trees for the cross bars. For the sail of the kite, try newspaper, wrapping paper or plastic garbage bags.

Using a plain craft paper allows for decorating with a personal touch. Attach string to the front of the kite and take it for a ride.

3. Make Fairy Houses or Castles – Collect empty paper towel rolls for the base. Fashion a pointed roof with construction paper, pine cones or twigs and decorate the cardboard roll with markers, colored tissue paper, wallpaper samples or felt. You can also cut out a door or windows. Create a village by securing to a poster board and add roads, greenery and a small brook made from foil or watercolor paint.

4. Welcome Spring Door Hanging – For this craft, your only limit is your imagination. Use a base such as wood, felt, straw hat, a wreath or even an old umbrella. Add craft moss, ribbons, artificial flowers, yarn, paint, burlap, etc.

Personalize it with a saying, monogram or your favorite spring animal.

Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three. She loves to plan parties and watch the joy it brings the guests. Follow her on Etsy at Pam’s Party Printables.

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