parent May 2019
CONNECTING FAMILIES FOR 26 YEARS
Sweet Picks for Mom
The Big List of Local Summer Camps
Have You Found Your Tribe? sacramentoparent.com
CAMP ISSUE
SIGN UP FOR A YOUTH BASKETBALL CAMP OR CLINIC!
UPCOMING EVENTS
Kids ages 6-14 can learn techniques from some of the best coaches in town while creating fun memories at an upcoming Jr. Kings camp or clinic! Plus, all participants receive a Jr. Kings t-shirt, headband and certificate!
MAY 11 JUNE 15 JUNE 27-28 JULY 22-23 AUG 2 AUG 24 SEPT 14 SEPT 28
Mother’s Day Weekend Clinic Father’s Day Weekend Clinic Summer Break Camp Summer Break Camp Back to School Clinic Jr. Kings Clinic Jr. Kings Clinic Jr. Kings Clinic
SIGN UP OR LEARN MORE AT
Kings.com/JrKings
Our Mission :
More Fun. Less Fear.
so True.
We’re not built for everyone — we’re built for kids. At Kids Care Dental & Orthodontics, it’s our mission to deliver more fun and less fear. We strive to give nothing but the best experience to both the parent and child. We have several convenient dental appointments and consultations for braces or Invisalign available, even on Saturdays! We accept all major PPO insurances. Schedule today!
Our services: • Preventive care • Dental X-rays • Cleanings • Sedation dentistry using nitrous oxide • Braces and Invisalign Treatment
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SACRAMENTO / ROSEVILLE / GREENBACK / NATOMAS / FOLSOM / RANCHO CORDOVA / CALVINE / ELK GROVE / VACAVILLE
parent
on our cover
May 2019
Litza Lopez Ramos is originally from Puerto Rico and moved to the United States two and a half years ago. She has two sons, Zahir (almost four years old) and Zayden (two years old). Her favorite part of being a mom is seeing her two boys play and laugh...and all the cuddles and kisses she gets from them! They all love to play outside and jump on the trampoline. Photography by: Megan Escheman Photography http://MeganEschemanPhotography.com
contents MAY 2019
14 departments
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25
features
around town
FUN FINDS
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38 CALENDAR
Picks to Pamper Mom
Non-Pool Toys that are Perfect for the Pool Are you Tribeless?
40 ON STAGE
11 BOOK NOOK Books that Celebrate Mothers
17 SAFETY 101 Empowering Kids with Safety Skills
22 HOMESCHOOL ADVENTURES
14 18 25
Fitting in as a Woman of Color
11 Things to Do with the Kids this Summer
42 HUMOR ME Before the Internet
20
A Mom’s Survival Guide to Simplifying Summer
Spring Plays
41 ON DISPLAY New Exhibits
special advertising section
Connecting with Community
May Your Month Be Full of Fun
27 36
Local Day Camps
Not-Too-Far-Away Overnight Camps
online exclusives this month A Guide to Local Moms Groups Nearby You-Pick Berry Farms
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MAY 2019 sacramentoparent.com
CAMP ISSUE
Baby whisperers There’s a science to understanding someone who can’t speak...yet At UC Davis Health, we make it a point to listen and look closer, to find out more — because then, and only then can we truly understand you. No matter what your age. With specialists in obstetrics, pediatrics and more than 150 other areas of medicine, primary care providers committed to empowering your goals, and 17 neighborhood clinics throughout the region, you’ll always have an expert team behind you with UC Davis Health. Let us partner with you in your care. When it’s time to choose your health insurance, make sure your health plan gives you access to a UC Davis Health doctor. Learn more about our services and what UC Davis Health can do for you.
choosehealth.ucdavis.edu
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MAY 2019 sacramentoparent.com
This month we are celebrating Moms (Dads, we’ve got you covered next month)! Whether it’s sharing products, places and ideas or connecting families— everything we do relates to parenting in one way or another. As a matter of fact most of us here at sac parent are moms, and while we may be small in numbers— we are mighty in what we can accomplish together!
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 Rebecca Hastings | Michelle Kopkash Sumiti Mehta | Christa Melnyk Hines Anna Osborn, LMFT | Meagan Ruffing Shannon Smith | Karissa Tunis contributing photographer: Megan Escheman Photography http://MeganEschemanPhotography.com advertising executives: LINDSAY TRENZ | (530) 889.6178 lindsay@sacramentoparent.com CHERYL WAPLES | (530) 889.6176 cheryl@sacramentoparent.com APRIL PORETTA | (916) 209.0305 april@sacramentoparent.com
BILLING QUESTIONS
Shelly Bokman | (530) 889.6175 shelly@sacramentoparent.com
May traditionally happens to be the time of the year when the extra hustle and bustle blows in like the wind. A time when activities pick-up as the school year winds down. We all can use a hand right about now and we realize that it’s priceless to have people in your life that you can truly rely on—a tribe of moms. That seems to be the underlying theme of this issue and luckily our community brings many opportunities to make connections. I hope this issue leads you to your tribe. If you haven’t had a MNO in a while, it’s time for one! You deserve it! Happy Mother’s Day to all the amazing women out there!
CALENDAR & WEBSITE calendar@sacramentoparent.com EVENTS events@sacramentoparent.com
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Cheers!
Shannon and the sac parent team
twitter.com/ SacParentMag
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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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DAREDEVILS
WANTED
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Granite Bay Montessori
Providing a personalized academic journey for ages 2 years to 8th grade.
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fun finds
Beauty Picks for Her By Shannon Smith
The special woman in your life deserves to feel pampered and glowing. These finds are all under $30, but they’ll make her feel like a million bucks! She’ll start with the oil to hydrate and heal, minimize pores and prep her skin with the primer, apply makeup with precision using the brush set and work in the serum before she styles her hair! You can enter to win this beauty bundle online at SacramentoParent.com, just visit the site and click win-it!
WIN IT!
Hydrate & Heal
Bio-Oil | 2 oz. bottle valued at $11.99 As the weather is starting to get warmer, it’s more important than ever to start hydrating. Bio-Oil will help skin go from flaking to glowing. This skincare oil can reduce the appearance of stretch marks and scars and help to smooth and nourish dry skin including cracked heels, dry lips and more! www.Walmart.com/ip/Bio-Oil-6-7-fl-oz/22374240
Prep with Primer
First Aid Beauty Hello FAB Pores Be Gone Matte Primer with Fig Extract | $28 at Sephora Like magic, instantly blur the look of pores and prime skin for a photo-ready complexion with this primer. Utilizing the antibacterial power of superfood Fig Extract and a blend of sebum-controlling acids, the oil-free, skin-loving formula provides a protective layer that grips makeup and won’t clog pores. www.Sephora.com/product/hello-fab-pores-be-gone-matte-primer-P442712
No Filter Needed
Real Techniques Everyday Essentials Makeup Brushes | $19.99 at ULTA This festive “one and done” makeup tool set contains all the essentials to easily master any makeup look for your face, cheeks and eyes. From a day at the park to hitting the town, the Real Techniques Everyday Essentials kit is a perfect gift! www.Ulta.com/everyday-essentials?productId=pimprod2000627
Save Time & Tame Frizz
Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum | $21.00 at PaulMitchell.com This will be your new best friend, and have your hair looking super soft, smooth and conditioned. Bonus: Add it to your hair before blow drying and it will help to reduce overall drying time by 30% for longer lasting blowouts! www.PaulMitchell.com/paul-mitchell/smoothing/super-skinny-serum/
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BYERS GYMNASTICS GYMNASTICS June 24 - JULY 26 T HEMES
Schedule a Tour Today!
• Animal Kingdom • SuperHero • Magical Unicorns & Dragons • Princesses/Knights
• K-8 Public Charter School • Small Class Sizes • Full-Day Kindergarten • Core Knowledge Curriculum • Project Based Learning
Roseville (916) 781-2939 • Citrus Heights (916) 723-7700 ROCKLIN (916) 250-4050
www.byersroseville.com
CAMP BOW WOW DOGGY DAY CARE AND BOARDING
Dogs Paws-itively Love Camp! 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
$5.00 OFF any service. Expires 5/31/19
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 5/31/19
10 MAY 2019 sacramentoparent.com
2213 Sunset Blvd Rocklin, CA 95765
www.placeracademy.org
book nook
Super Books About Super Moms By Shannon Smith
We’re celebrating mothers, grandmothers, aunts and friends in this issue! This month’s book nook picks showcase mothers who go above and beyond to balance being loving caretakers while pursuing their independent passions. MY MOM ALWAYS LOOKS AFTER ME SO MUCH By Sean Taylor Little Gorilla is going to the doctor. His mom says it’s because she has to look after him. But that’s the problem—his mom always looks after him so much. First, she makes him eat broccoli, then, whenever he sneezes, he has to put on an extra sweater. And now he has to go to the doctor and get a shot! But it’s not all bad—the doctor gives Little Gorilla a stick-thing that smells of strawberries for being brave. He loves it—but then he leaves it on the bus on the way home! Little Gorilla is distraught—but his mom takes him back to the doctor for another stick thing. His mom really does look after him so much! JK ROWLING: BOSS THE BESTSELLER LIST LIKE... By Carolyn Moss Discover the life of JK Rowling, the famous author behind the Harry Potter books! Be inspired by her remarkable story as a mother, writer, and philanthropist, and learn 10 key lessons from her life and work. Featuring encouraging quotes and mantras, this is a book for all girls wanting to forge their own career paths and all mothers looking to feel inspired by a woman who has truly done it all.
BRILLIANT IDEAS FROM WONDERFUL WOMEN By Aitziber Lopez Disposable diapers…The dishwasher…Kevlar…Maritime flares…Anti-reflective glass…Wifi… What do each of these revolutionary inventions have in common? They were all pioneered by women (most of whom were juggling families of their own)! Each brilliant idea is presented with biographical information about the brilliant woman who came up with it, including what inspired them. Full-page illustrations show the inspiration for and use of these incredible inventions in humorous detail.
THE GREAT BIG BOOK OF LIFE By Mary Hoffman From birth to starting nursery, being a teenager to becoming an adult, from work to relationships, homes and jobs, to aging illness and death, The Great Big Book of Life takes a universal but challenging look at life from beginning to end. With Mary Hoffman and Ros Asquith's trademark sensitivity, humor, and inclusivity, this book is perfect for moms, old and new, to create discussions about what it means to hold yourself accountable to your ambitions. MARIA MONTESSORI (LITTLE PEOPLE, BIG DREAMS) By Isabel Sanchez Maria grew up in Italy at a time when girls didn't receive an equal education to boys. But Maria's mother was supportive of her dreams, and Maria went on to study medicine. She later became an early years expert and a mother, herself, founding schools with her revolutionary educational theories and changing the lives of many children. This moving book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the educator's life.
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Non-Pool Toys that are Perfect for the Pool By Karissa Tunis Our family loves hanging out at the pool, and could literally spend all day (and all evening) in the water! But, I am not a fan of a lot of the typical water toys. Any toy that has a hole to squirt water usually ends up in the trash within a few weeks as I begin to see the mildew build-up inside. So I am always looking for alternatives. I also like to find items that can be played with in multiple ways, or in multiple places. This allows us to keep a separate special bag of toys for outings. I look for items that could possibly be used at the beach, in the sand, in the water, at the playground, in the dirt, and so on. Thankfully, I have also found that my children actually prefer non-pool toys too! Here is a list of a few of our random favorites that stay in our special toy/pool bag: Little Spray Bottles They have fun spraying, and I enjoy not getting soaked by a water gun. Paint Brushes Kids love painting “water lines” on the pavement and watching it dry. Hard Little Animal Toys My kids LOVE animals! So the hard little animals that you can buy are awesome! They might be a little expensive (several dollars per animal) but they hold up. Whether it’s in the dirt, the mud, the sand, or the pool, these animals go everywhere with us. Barbie Mermaids These are always a big hit with my daughters friends, so we have several we keep in the pool bag.
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Cheap Plastic Cups Little kids love sitting on the pool steps and pouring water between the cups. It’s also great for developing hand-eye-coordination. Plastic Easter Eggs Kids love filling these up, watching them sink to the bottom, and hiding their small toys inside. Squid Divers My kids love playing with these as animals, but the older two love diving in the pool for these as well. Pool Noodle Slings Great for just floating and relaxing, but
not difficult to climb into like a lot of pool rafts. Well…the last two are actually meant for the pool, but you get the idea! Look through your child’s toys and your kitchen cabinets before heading to the pool next time to see what ideas you can uncover! Karissa Tunis is the co-owner of the parenting website, AdoreThem.com. Adore Them strives to share positive, practical advice and resources to help you find joy in your own parenting journey!
WIN IT! Did you know Sacramento Parent readers win free stuff each month? We love giveaways and so we’ve made it quick and easy to enter. The goodies we round up are sure to brighten your day and your odds are great...so, what are you waiting for?
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sacramentoparent.com MAY 2019 13
Are You Tribeless? By Anna Osborn, LMFT
“In its purest form, the vision of a tribe is inspiring.”
One of the favorite parts of my day is being able to pick my kids up from school. It doesn’t happen everyday, which I’m sure makes me appreciate it all the more. I love being able to hear about their days, how they spent their time and any funny stories they’ve squirreled away. One thing I always ask is who did you eat lunch with and who did you play with at recess today? It’s a seemingly small question, but it’s one that I learned the importance of from my own Mom. You see, her after school talks with me were much less about my academics and much more about who I was hanging out with. She would ask these small yet subtle questions about certain friends I’d talked about, how relationships were going with them and gently remind or ask me about friends I hadn’t mentioned in a while. I didn’t know it at the time, but she was laying a foundation for me on how to be on the lookout for a tribe. A circle of friends that would be my biggest cheerleaders and safest critics. I’d like to say those after school talks with my mom 14 MAY 2019 sacramentoparent.com
helped me navigate adult friendships with ease and comfort, that I’ve had a strong tribe around me my entire life, but the truth is I had to learn the importance of this one the hard way, through risk and rejection. In its purest form, the vision of a tribe is inspiring. A circle of friends, no matter the size, that support you unconditionally, yet challenge you to grow and stretch outside your comfort zone. They don’t, nor should they, agree with every idea that pops into your head, but instead hear and see you for who you are and who you’re striving to become. They seek to understand you, encourage you and call you out when needed.
lessness have always been compounded by me telling myself I am alone and no one would understand. I struggled to see to opportunities for connection, no matter how small or impossible they looked in the moment. I forced myself to show up with a smile on my face when in reality I was struggling inside and stuffing it all down. And I assume it’s the same for you. That you’re pretty certain you’re tribeless because you’re not growing, the loneliness seems insurmountable, the feeling of being overwhelmed seems permanent and you’re lacking the perspective to see outside of your current set of stressors.
But what happens if you’re tribeless? What happens if this vision for what can be is far short of your day to day support system? What if you’re struggling to make connections with other people and the loneliness is starting to feel like hopelessness?
I’m not promising that having a tribe makes all of these things disappear. But what a tribe DOES DO is create a perspective of hope. It allows you to know, with the utmost confidence, someone you love and respect has walked (and survived) a hard path too and you’re not alone in this season of life.
The first thing I can say is, you’re not alone in this. My biggest feelings of hope-
If you’re struggling to find connection and the season of life you’re walking
through feels exceptionally hard, you could very well be tribeless. I encourage you to will yourself forward and try a few steps to break that isolation and start intentionally building a tribe of authentic connection around you. The first step is to really accept there is a risk in reaching. I’m not going to lie to you and tell you that it’s not scary to try. But what I am going to tell you with complete honesty, is that it’s absolutely worth it. Even if the risk ends up feeling like a rejection, at least you tried. And don’t stop there. Try again. Begin to notice when you risk with someone, do they begin to risk with you? Are they challenging you to grow and allowing you the same opportunity to challenge them to? Are there people around you extending themselves that you never noticed before; inviting you to do this life thing together? Lean into this.
Start small. You have to be really clear with what you’re looking for in a tribe so that when you reach for it, you’re much more certain you found it. If you’re looking for someone to encourage and challenge you, then don’t be shocked when you get honest feedback. If you’re looking for unconditional support, be a good observer of those around you who are good at doing that already and start to build a richer relationship with them. Start small and be intentional and clear about what you need. Look up. We all know the reality technology and social media are playing in our lives. And I completely understand the convenience that building a tribe online can offer. I want you to look up anyway. Look around to see those familiar signs of loneliness and overwhelm in the mama next to you at the park and say hello. Take yourself on a date to the local coffee shop, ignore your phone and see who
is sitting around you. Strike up a simple conversation about the weather or a new restaurant that’s opening down the street. Look up! Lastly, be discerning. Don’t just accept every friendship that walks through the door. Yes, accept invitations and lean into conversations, but don’t feel like your need for connection means you should settle for less. Be solid in what you need and deserve and don’t settle for inauthentic connections. You’ve got this. You have the ability to build a tribe that is a lighthouse in your life, encouraging you to swim a bit farther than you did last time while also being a steady reminder of the shoreline nearby. Visit SacramentoParent.com for a list of local Mom’s groups, there are countless opportunities around town for moms to find their tribe and connect with others that share the same interests!
Anna Osborn, LMFT, is the owner of Life Unscripted Counseling. She works with couples to improve communication, deepen intimacy and heal from betrayal. Anna lives in the Elk Grove with her husband, school aged twins and boxer dog. She can often be found at the ballpark cheering on her local team. More information about Anna and her Sacramento practice can be found at www.LifeUnscriptedCounseling.com.
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16 MAY 2019 sacramentoparent.com
safety 101
EMPOWERING KIDS WITH SAFTEY SKILLS By Rob Baquera, Public Information Officer Roseville Police Department
As a parent, you’re the best person to talk with your kids about personal safety. You have the built in knowledge about what your child can understand as well as what they’re capable of processing. When discussing personal safety, it’s important not to scare your kids, rather encourage them to take control of their own safety. This is done through some effective personal safety skills like:
Smart thinking • Strong character • Sticking together Studies show kids are more likely to be victimized by someone they know, as opposed to a random stranger on the street. The key message to communicate to your kids is determining who they can identify as a trusted adult. Of course, you as their parent should top the list. Also, consider adding their teacher or other school officials, grandparents, police officers, firefighters, or other adults that fit your specific situation. In all cases, your kids should “Check First” with their trusted adult before they veer from their normal routine. If your child wants to play at a friend’s house, they should always “Check First” with you or whomever is supervising them. If they’re approached by an adult they don’t know, empower your kids to be respectful but strong in character in order to communicate their need to “Check First” before going anywhere or doing anything with said adult. Another part of arming your children with the tools they need to be safe is ensuring they know how to reach you in case of an emergency. This includes knowing:
• The full name of their parent or guardian • The phone number of a trusted adult • Their home address • Where to go and who to contact if they’re in need
Ultimately every parent should set boundaries about places their kids may go, people they may see, and things they may do. Always reinforce the importance of the “buddy system.” And remember it’s okay to say NO—tell your children to always trust their instincts.
Educational Supplies for Parents, Teachers & Homeschoolers
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Fitting In as a Woman of Color By Sumiti Mehta I am a brown-skinned woman born and raised in the Indian subcontinent. I have been in the United States for more than a decade now. Right now, I am finding it to be an odd time in the U.S., a time when despite the diverse population and progressive culture—gender, race and color of skin still matters. My experience as a woman of color here, in California, was somewhat complicated leading up to becoming the first Indian woman appointed to take the position of Parks, Youth and Enrichment Commissioner for District 1 in Sacramento. Moreover, I was appointed by Mayor pro tem, Angelique Ashby, who happens to be the only woman in the City Council. As I reflect, I wanted to share some of the things that I did to reach my goals as a woman of color. Angelique and Sumiti
Let your behavior dismiss stereotypes Stereotypes or other pre-conceived notions that people have about women of color may not go away any time soon. I have often been labeled simply because of my accent. Speaking in different accent in English was one of my roadblocks. I decided to stay positive and continued to prove myself with my actions. Thanks to the help of an amazing lady, Rachel Minnick (Executive Director of Reading Partners, Sacramento) I was able to learn the accent and phonics of American English language (through volunteer workshops). This enabled me to volunteer as a tutor for students who struggled with reading and I was able to help in my son’s classroom. Challenge yourself to speak up In the beginning, speaking at meetings or events was nerve-wracking for me as the thought of people judging my accent made me self-conscious. But now, I find myself speaking up with confidence. I trust that I have the knowledge and experience to express myself and make things happen in a resourceful way. Get used to being uncomfortable Being a woman of color at fundraising/
community events or even at a PTA meeting was often uncomfortable as there would be very few others like me. The lack of representation made it challenging for others to understand the tussles I would face. I started to look for bright side, which was that even being in an uncomfortable situation, I was still able to bring out the best in me.
Share experiences and mentor other women of color Always share your experiences to help other women to understand you better. I wish I had someone who would have gone through similar experiences, that was there to help me, mentor me and prepare me with ways to fit in seamlessly and handle some of the situations I faced.
Be persistent and keep showing up to The Morning Email. Initially, there were numerous occasions/ events where I would consider not volunteering or where I wanted to skip a PTA meeting or event because I was feeling overwhelmed. But, I quickly realized the importance of being persistent. So, I cast my fears aside and pressed on with attending PTA events and kept volunteering in schools and within the community.
As a women in general, it should be our duty to mentor and heal one another, no matter what the color of our skin is, as most of us, on some level have experienced prejudice. We have to support, listen and appreciate our unique experiences.
Find your perfect balance Find your perfect balance, the things that connect with your skills and interests. This is essential, especially for a woman of color. The truth is, more often than not, you will have to work harder to prove your capability. Plus, using your core skills and interests will always give you the edge.
My hope is that the next generation will see things differently and experience no prejudice (be it color or gender) not just in America, but across the world. (Sumiti would like to extend a special thanks to some women who have empowered her on many occasions: Rachel Minnick, Danielle Marshal, Giao Villalobos, Sharon Maccini.)
Sumiti Mehta is a Natomas based mother of two boys (ages 7 and 13 years old). She is a very involved member of the community and has served on several Natomas Unified School District committees. She has been nominated numerous times for N Factor Community awards for her work with kids in schools and the community. She has also made guest appearances on ABC 10’s digital series, “Moms Explain All”. 18 MAY 2019 sacramentoparent.com
sacramentoparent.com MAY 2019 19
A Mom’s Survival Guide to Simplifying Your Summer with Special Needs Kids By Meagan Ruffing
While my kids are counting down the days until school’s out, I’m quietly making a mental checklist of all the things that will change at home. I’m busy making phone calls to schedule behavioral and occupational therapy appointments, plus setting up an interview with a new social skills therapist to see if my son Dylan is a good fit for her summer program. One of the most freeing things you’ll ever learn about raising a child with special needs is that each day is different and you get to choose what will get you through that day; hour by hour, even minute by minute. Sometimes this means barely making it through the day and other times it means realizing, “Today was actually a good day!” as you lay your head down at night. Because we all want more good days, here are five tips on how you can simplify your summer.
The Tone. Setting the tone for your summer is essential in getting things off to a good start. What does this mean? This means you start talking about it now. Get your kids excited about the fun things planned, but also let them know that there will be plenty of downtime where using their imaginations will be the only thing on that day’s agenda. A family calendar is helpful for having a visual reminder of what the summer is going to look like each month. Not only does it hold you accountable to appointments, but it allows your kids to see some white space. (And white space = free time.) SAHD (aka Stay-At-Home-Days). These are vital for families with special needs kids. Therapy appointments can quickly take over your schedule and before you know it, the day is done and dinner needs to be on the table. Be intentional about not planning anything several days a week. Leave your car in the garage and hunker down. I realize this may sound scary to some of you because staying at home all day is overwhelming at times. Find easy activities that you can do, this will help keep things simple but fun. Outings. My son likes a balance of going out and staying home, so one to two outings a week works best for our family. This rhythm serves several purposes. It gives my kids something to look forward to and it makes it easier for them to find things to do at home on their own, knowing that tomorrow or the next day they’ll be going out again. My kids look forward to helping me compile an A to Z list every summer. We sit down with a piece of paper and a pen and start brainstorming ideas on all the fun things we can do over the summer using all 26 letters. (A for Aquarium, B for Bass Pro Shops, etc.) When we complete an activity we check it off and get excited about the next one. Plan. I originally started doing this for my son but my other two children have come to enjoy it as well. Every morning (and I do mean every single morning), I tell my kids the plan for the day is. It may be as simple as saying, “Hey guys, today is going to be low-key and we’re going to play outside this morning, eat lunch, have quiet time, read books, and go to Dylan’s therapy appointment.” My son has severe anxiety, so letting him know what to expect reduces the guess work for him. Craft Bags. Each of my kids has a craft bag that they know to take with them when we’re in the car going to one of Dylan’s appointments. This helps simplify things when the girls and I are out in the waiting room. I try to keep their craft bags fun by putting new crayons, markers and stickers in them, weekly. They look forward to something special just for them. Since feeling guilty for having a child with special needs is the worst kept secret us moms bury inside ourselves, doing small things like this for my kids helps me show them how much I love them. Start with these tips, add some of your own, have fun in the process and you'll have a great summer! (Remember: Less is more. Take a deep breath. You’ve got this.)
A B C D E F G H I J
Meagan Ruffing is a parenting journalist and mom to three kids, one of whom has special needs. She loves sharing what’s worked and hasn’t worked for her and her family while navigating the world through her son’s eyes. For your free “Summer Survival Guide: 26 Simple Activities You Can Do with Your Kids" visit www.MeaganRuffing.com. 20 MAY 2019 sacramentoparent.com
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Make outpatient appointments by calling 916-361-7290 www.cchatsacramento.org
sacramentoparent.com MAY 2019 21
homeschool adventures
Finding Community is Key By Kaleena Amuchastegui Prior to starting our own homeschool journey we had spent six years in a close-knit private school. That community presence was strong and was the one thing I feared losing the most when we decided to leave. If I’m being completely honest, I was more worried about myself than I was about the kids. Building new adult friendships can be an overwhelming task! At least it is for me. I would be leaving parents I had seen nearly everyday at drop-off and pick-up. No longer would we meet for coffee once a week or bond over homework horror stories before the bell. Not only that; what if my friends and family weren’t supportive or didn’t understand the choice we were making? What would happen to my community? By committing to a homeschool life, was I committing myself to a lonely life? Absolutely not! We have ways to connect now that we simply didn’t have 15 years ago. Online groups where you can communicate with homeschoolers from all over the world, discussing curriculum, concerns and providing the opportunity to share your own journey. To finding people in your own neighborhood who have also chosen to educate in a non-traditional way. All you need is a Google search or a Facebook account and the world opens up. We all need connection. Whether you are starting a homeschool journey after spending time in a traditional 22 MAY 2019 sacramentoparent.com
school environment or it’s all you’ve ever done, finding a community for support and friendship is key!
WHERE TO FIND CONNECTIONS? Facebook (online communities) - I’m not going to lie, this made me extremely nervous at first. I’ve never been one to meet friends on social media. But the more I looked into local homeschool and unschool communities on Facebook, the more I was encouraged. These groups are a wonderful resource when it comes to finding out what’s available near us. With a variety of meetup groups, extracurriculars and field trips, I’m able to meet local homeschoolers in a way our whole family enjoys. I live in Placer county, by simply searching “Placer Homeschool” I found several great groups! I also belong to a few groups with members from all over the globe. I absolutely love sharing and participating in these forums. I can always find a parent who has already experienced my struggle and has helpful words of encouragement or fun craft ideas when I’m feeling less inspired. In fact, these groups were the inspiration to forming our own 5 Hour School Week community. Connecting with homeschoolers from all over the world is such an incredible feeling, we can have community anywhere we go! Local co-ops, private programs and church - Joining or creating a co-op with local
parents is a wonderful way to support and become fast friends with other homeschooling families near you. We participate in a Free to Learn community (Agile Learning Center) in Rocklin which provides my kids and myself an opportunity to interact with families who share a similar learning philosophy. Many local churches also have homeschool communities with weekly and monthly meetups, including support groups and field trip opportunities. Homeschool Charters Although our 5 Hour School Week family is not part of a local charter, I am aware of some really incredible ones in our community! Inspire, South Sutter, Horizon and many others offer exceptional community activities and family support. I know families that belong to these charters and really love the field trips offered and gatherings, as well as the academic and emotional support. As you find your tribe I encourage you to stay open minded and patient. The first group you try may not be the right fit, it may take time to find people you want to walk this journey with. It also may look different than what you currently have or have imagined. This is an opportunity, in the same way homeschooling is to look outside the “box” and try something new, something that may be better than you ever imagined!
HOW ELSE CAN HOMESCHOOLING PARENTS SUPPORT AND CONNECT WITH ONE ANOTHER? I can’t write this article and leave this out. For me it’s the most important part! The path of unconventional education looks different for many of us. We have classical homeschoolers, unschoolers, worldschoolers, Wild & Free communities, Free to Learn (Agile Learning Centers), Charlotte Mason communities, and the list goes on and on! Some of you participate in nature schools while others focus on STEM curriculum. Instead of focusing on our differences, focus on our similarities! We are all parents wanting the best for our kids. We are all on a path that is unconventional to the majority. We are each trying to use what works best for our individual families and children. We all want to live our very best lives WITH our children. Cheer each other on and lift each other up! Be a voice of support and encouragement to your fellow homeschooler. Let them know they are not alone. Participate in communities online. You could end up saying exactly what someone else desperately needs to hear today. Share your experience, the good and the bad, be transparent and honest. Allow others to come alongside you and say, “hey I’ve been there too” or “I experienced that, this is how we survived!” Give hope to the mama who feels like she
isn’t going to make it through the day. Share that project everyone loved or your latest successful craft (I need your inspiration!). Be brave! Show up at that park meetup even if you don’t know anybody else that’s going. Sign up for the church support group even if you have no idea what to expect. It’s okay that it feels awkward and uncomfortable, I promise at least half of the parents are feeling the same way. Show
your kids what it looks like to build a community of people who support and add value to each other’s lives. A homeschool life doesn’t equate to a lonely life, in fact it is full of infinite community possibilities! 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 jour-
ney 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).
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).
Ever wonder what it’s like to homeschool? Join us May 10 and find out!
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Friday, May 10 » 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. Center Court at Westfield Galleria at Roseville
Free, Hands-On, Kids Activities Learn more at HorizonCharterSchools.org
Free, Local, K-12, WASC Accredited, Public Charter School sacramentoparent.com MAY 2019 23
24 MAY 2019 sacramentoparent.com
C A M P
11 Things Your Child Should Do This Summer By Christa Melnyk Hines
The lure of slowing down over summer sounds idyllic amidst the whir of hectic school schedules, but what will you do if your child starts singing the summertime boredom blues? Camps are a great solution and there are many local camps that can help you tackle the following summer bucket list and beyond! Whether you find a few day camps that align with their interests or have some ideas ready to go at home, the key is being prepared with an assortment of creative, educational and exhilarating activities. Not only will you fight off boredom, they'll create plenty of new memories while playing and learning! Tend a garden. Together with your child cultivate containers of herbs, tomatoes or peppers. Take a digital photo each day to track the progress of the plant's growth. Have your child put the photos in order in a journal and write down any observations. Together, prepare a meal using your child's homegrown produce. Sleep outdoors. Chris Starnes, a mom of three, says her family loves to camp. They look forward to hiking, biking and swimming and a break from electronics. Want to take your family? Starnes suggests downloading a camping checklist from the internet and reserving a site at a state park. "State parks are cleaner and well-patrolled and there are usually activities for the kids at some point during the day or weekend," she says. "Go where there is a playground. And, don't camp too far from restrooms—think evening or middle of the night trips!" Stare at the stars. On a clear night, direct your family's gaze toward the heavens. Try identifying a few of the 88 different constellations, many of which
are named after mythological men, women and animals. Is your child interested in learning more about the characters dotting the celestial night sky? Read D'Aulaires' Book of Greek Myths” by Ingri and Edgar Parin D'Aulaire. Build and fly a kite. "The experience never fails to fill adults and kids with wonder every time they fly a kite," says Sean Beaver, a kite enthusiast and father of two. Kite flying is an inexpensive and relaxing activity. Check out the American Kite Association website, aka.kite.org, which provides educational resources, including the history of kites and the science and math behind kite flying. Pick berries. Bring summer home in a bucket of berries. Check out SacramentoParent.com to find a list of local farms. Celebrate the fruits of your labor by baking muffins or enjoying berries over homemade ice cream! Go local. Area farmers markets offer an assortment of colorful, seasonal produce. There's no better time to taste locally grown foods and experiment with new wholesome recipes in the kitchen with your child.
Tour a working farm. Show your child how foods make it to grocery store shelves by touring a local farm or dairy. Many places offer tours by appointment and schedule themed events. Birdwatch. Learning about birds local to the area helps children appreciate and build interest in their natural surroundings. Purchase or make a bird feeder to attract birds to your backyard. Use a local bird guide and listen for different bird song to try and identify the birds visiting your yard. Plan hometown field trips. New experiences help kids learn, grow and feel a connection to their community. Check out the multitude of museums on topics that might interest your child and explore historical landmarks. Attend a summer camp. There are many benefits and your child will meet new friends and have a blast, too! There are pages of options inside this issue so finding the right camp for your child should be easy-peasy!
Cook up a story. Recipes help kids practice math and reading skills, but also try giving cooking a literary twist that will delight even preschoolers. Read a book like, “If You Give a Pig a Pancake” by Laura Joffe Numeroff and make pancakes together. An older child who likes, “The Little House on the Prairie” series, might enjoy “The Little House Cookbook: Frontier Foods from Laura Ingalls Wilder's Classic Stories” by Barbara M. Walker. Got a Star Wars fan? Check out the “Star Wars Cookbook: Wookie Cookies and Other Galactic Recipes” by Robin Davis.
Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines and her family plan to do lots of exploring this summer! Christa is the author of Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World. sacramentoparent.com MAY 2019 25
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26 MAY 2019 sacramentoparent.com
C A M P
local
CAMP ISSUE
• • Auburn Racquet Club 530-885-1602 | www.Ar-Fc.com • • • • • • • • • Bach to Rock Music Camps 916-435-1300 | http://Rocklin.B2RMusic.com • Blue Line Arts 916-783-4117 | www.BlueLineArts.com • • Bounce Spot 916-371-2386 | www.TheBounceSpot.com • • • • • • • Bright Start Therapies Apraxia Camp 916-773-8282 | www.BrightStartTherapies.com • Brighton School 916-985-2222 | www.BrightonSchools.com • • • • • • Arts Explosion Camp: A Camp for Creativity Fair Oaks 916-979-8641 | www.SanJuan.edu/vapa Auburn
Rocklin
Roseville
West Sacramento
Roseville
Folsom
Byers Gymnastics Roseville | Citrus Heights | Rocklin 916-781-2939 | 916-723-7700 | 916-250-4050 www.ByersGym.com
• •
California Time Traveler Camp Sacramento 916-654-1729 | www.CaliforniaMuseum.org/Time-Traveler Camp EDMO Elk Grove | Folsom | Rocklin | Sacramento 877-993-6673 | www.campedmo.org Casa De Espanol Sacramento 916-346-4535 | www.CasaDeEspanol.org Child Development Centers
Elk Grove | Rocklin | Davis | Woodland | Antelope | Dixon | Sacramento
916-286-7865 | http://www.CDCMonsterCamps.org
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • • • Consumnes Community Services District 916-405-5600 | www.YourCSD.com • • • • • • • • Crocker Art Museum 916-808-7000 | www.CrockerArt.org • Destination Science Camp 888-909-2822 | www.DestinationScience.org • • • Dream Enrichment 916-419-7644 | www.DreamClasses.org/summer • • • Effie Yeaw Nature Center 916-489-4918 | www.SacNatureCenter.net • • • • Fairytale Town 916-808-5233 | www.FairytaleTown.org • • • • Fliptastic Day Camp 916-487-3547 | www.Fliptastic.biz • • Granite Arch Climbing Center 916-852-7625 | www.GraniteArch.com • Christian Youth Theater Roseville | Auburn 916-623-4343 | www.CYTsacramento.org
Elk Grove
Sacramento
Sacramento
Sacramento
Carmichael
Sacramento
Carmichael
Rancho Cordova
sacramentoparent.com MAY 2019 27
C A M P
COUNTRY DAY
Summer
KINDERGARTEN - 12TH GRADE
JUNE 17 - AUGUST 2
COUNTRYDAYSUMMER.ORG REGISTER BY JUNE 14 FOR EARLY BIRD PRICING
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SACRAMENTO COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL | 2636 LATHAM DRIVE, SACRAMENTO, CA 95864 | 916.481.8811 28 MAY 2019 sacramentoparent.com
C A M P CAMP ISSUE
local
• • Haggin Oaks Golf Camps 916-808-2351 | www.HagginOaks.com • • iD Tech Camps, Academies & Online 888-709-8324 | www.iDtech.com • • • Jr. Kings 916-840-5854 | www.Kings.com/JrKings • Kovar’s Martial Arts Summer Camp • Granite Bay Montessori Granite Bay 916-791-7849 | www.GBMontessori.com Sacramento
150 Campus Locations
Sacramento
Carmichael | Fair Oaks | Elk Grove-Laguna | Elk Grove-Waterman | Natomas
800-645-3676 | www.Kovars.com Little Folks University Folsom 916-985-7055 | www.LittleFolksU.com Live Oak Waldorf School Meadow Vista 530-878-8720 | www.LiveOakWaldorf.org Metal Arts Academy Auburn 530-820-3278 | www.MetalArtsAcademy.com Powerhouse Science Center Sacramento 916-674-5000 | https://PowerhouseSC.org
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
sacramentoparent.com MAY 2019 29
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Creative Adventures Abound! Join ReCreate for our one-of-kind summer day camps. Our camps are limited in size, but unlimited in fun!
recreate.org/summercamps
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The fun science day camp for curious kids!
2019 Camp Themes Physics Coaster & Science Magic Extreme Innovators & Science Makers Robot Challengers & Reaction Racers Rocket Space Science
Held at Sacramento State University May Savings!
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Registration Open NOW! Sign up at powerhousesc.org 916.674.5000 sacramentoparent.com MAY 2019 31
C A M P local
CAMP ISSUE
• • • • Rocknasium The Climbing Gym presents Space Camp 530-757-2902 | www.Rocknasium.com • Roseville Theatre Camps 916-772-2777 | www.RosevilleTheatreArtsAcademy.com • Sacramento Country Day School 916-481-8811 | www.CountryDaySummer.org • • • • • • • • Sacramento Natural Foods Co-Op 916-868-6399 | www.SacFoodCoop.com • Sac State Aquatic & Boating Safety Center 916-278-2842 | www.SacStateAquaticCenter.com • • • Sacramento Theatre Company Camp 916-446-7501 ext. 116 | www.SacTheatre.org • • Roseville Theatre Camps 916-772-2777 | www.RosevilleTheatreArtsAcademy.com • Sierra College Community Education Youth Camps 916-781-6280 | http:/SierraCommunityEd.org/ • • • • Steve Wallen Swim School Camps 916-939-7075 | 916-794-7977 | www.WallenSwim.com • • • Summer at Jesuit 916-482-6060 | www.SummeratJesuit.com • • • • • ReCreate Maker Camps Roseville 916-770-9880 | www.recreate.org/summercamp
Davis
Roseville
Sacramento
Sacramento
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Sacramento
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Rocklin
El Dorado Hills | Roseville
Carmichael
Tricks Gymnastics Granite Bay | Folsom | Sacramento 916-791-4496| 916-351-0024 | 916-481-4496 www.TricksGym.com
• Xtreme Craze 916-259-2729 | www.XtremeCraze.com Rocklin
32 MAY 2019 sacramentoparent.com
• •
C A M P NOW ENROLLING! Fun & Fitness Summer Camps
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Rocknasium The Climbing Gym Climbing ziplining slacklining Rappelling and more! rocknasium.com
Ages 6-14 Weekly camps June 17 - August 23 Full Day $235 Half Day $125 $15 off repeat weeks
p Space Cam 530.757.2902
Photos courtesy of Camp EDMO and Sacramento Theatre Company sacramentoparent.com MAY 2019 33
C A M P Auburn Racquet & Fitness Club
Summer Day Camps Early Registration Discounts! For ages 5-12
Ninja 6/10-6/14 • Lil Chefs 6/17-6/21 • Pirate 6/24-6/28 Soccer 7/1-7/5 • Olympic Games 7/8-7/12 • Knights 7/15-7/19 Nerf Battle 7/22-7/26 • Luau 7/29-8/2 • Spy Kids 8/5-8/9 Lil Chefs Cowboy 8/12-8/16
Auburn Racquet & Fitness Club 530-885-1602 | www.ar-fc.com
Baseball • Basketball Soccer • Softball Volleyball • Water Sports
Making a Difference in POSITIVE Ways! 801 Sibley St. Folsom, CA 916.985.7055
34 MAY 2019 sacramentoparent.com
C A M P
RosevilleTheatreArtsAcademy.com
9167722777
*Sibling Discount Available Jun 17-21: Superheroes: Part 2 Jun 24-28: Who’s Thieving Threeland? Jul 8-12: Ghostlight Jul 15-19: Lost in Hollywood
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Jul 22-26: Soon the Rains Will Come Jul 29-Aug 2: Once Upon a Time
241 VERNON ST, ROSEVILLE, CA
sacramentoparent.com MAY 2019 35
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Fun and not-too-far overnight summer camp programs
LOOKING FOR A RESIDENT CAMP FOR YOUR CHILD? WITH A SHORT ROAD TRIP YOUR CHILD CAN FIND ADVENTURE AND CREATE MEMORIES TO LAST A LIFETIME AT SUMMER CAMP!
CAMP WINTHERS | SODA SPRINGS
916-971-7577 | SanJuan.edu/CampWinthers2019
Your child’s learning can last all year round thanks to San Juan Unified, the only district in the region with a summer camp in the Sierras. Camp Winthers offers a variety of program options, from art and music to computers and outdoor education.
CAMP WOOLMAN | NEVADA CITY
530-273-3183 | https://Camp.Woolman.org/camp
Explore nature in a small, inclusive community. Swimming, arts, sports, three-day backpacking trips, and more! Vegetarian & organic food fresh from the garden. One and two-week sessions for 9 to 14 year olds. Two-week Teen Leadership Camp sessions for 15 to 17 year olds includes longer backpacking trips. Scholarships available!
CAZADERO MUSIC CAMP | SONOMA COUNTY 510-527-7500 | www.Cazadero.org
A balance of in-depth music education and carefree summer camp fun for young musicians. Caz is located near the Russian River where young musicians learn together under a canopy of redwood trees. (Musicians ages 10 to 18 can attend one or two week sessions, based on grade level and musical experience, scholarships available.)
GIRL SCOUT CAMPS | VARIOUS LOCATIONS
916-482-9181 | www.GirlScoutsHCC.org/getoutdoors
Camp programs include horseback riding, archery, canoeing and more! Programs run June-August for girls in grades K-12. Adventure seekers can visit the website to learn more about Summer Expeditions, too!
SIERRA MOUNTAIN MUSIC CAMP | NEVADA CITY
916-967-7664 | www.ISMMC.com (Camp dates: June 16-22, 2019)
Sierra Mountain Music Camp enriches lives through a week-long camp experience focused on musical excellence, exciting activities, friendship, and fun!
WALTON’S GRIZZLY LODGE SUMMER CAMP | PORTOLA 530-274-9577 | www.GrizzlyLodge.com
Located on a private lake in Northern California, Walton’s Grizzly Lodge provides the idyllic sleep-away summer camp setting for campers ages 7 to 14. Campers choose daily from over 40 activities.
WESTMINSTER WOODS CAMP | OCCIDENTAL 707-874-2426 | www.WestminsterWoods.org
Westminster Woods invites campers to revel in the life-changing gifts of God by being loved unconditionally, laughing uncontrollably, and growing unexpectedly. Experience the joy of being young at the Woods!
YOUNG SET CLUB | EL DORADO HILLS 916-524-5595 | www.YoungSetClub.org
Young Set Club is all about creativity, friendship, and fun! Their unique curriculum enables campers to customize camp around their interests, setting up a summer experience like no other. 36 MAY 2019 sacramentoparent.com
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Voted Best Kids Spot 7 Years In A Row! Xtreme CAMP ONLY Laser Tag Game Formats Ultimate Arcade Game Challenges Crazy Bounce House Activities Weekly Make-Your-Own Pizza Party Visit us online for Dates, Prices & Details. Space is Limited, Register Online Today!
sacramentoparent.com MAY 2019 37
wednesday
Sometimes plans change, don’t forget to check the event’s website before you go!
friday
thursday
1
2
3
PAW Patrol Live! “The Great Pirate Adventure”
Children’s Book Week
Mother’s Day Jewelry Boxes
10am at Fairytale Town
3:30pm at McKinley Library
10am at Sacramento Community Center Theater
Celebrate Children’s Book Week all week long with story times, activities, giveaways and more. www.FairytaleTown.org
Make a hand-crafted jewelry box for moms or lovely ladies in your life. www.SacLibrary.org
Park, Rec and Eat It
5pm at Arden-Dimick Library
It’s up to Chase, Marshall, Skye and all their pirate pup friends to save the day and find the pirate treasure before Mayor Humdinger finds it first! www.PAWPatrolLive.com/tail-mail
Teens Only Night: De-Stress Night
A monthly family event featuring food trucks, vendors and entertainment. www.CarmichaelPark.com
Nerf battles, yelling, bubble wrap popping, video gaming and more. (Ages 13 to 19) www.SacLibrary.org
A weekly class exploring cultures from all over the world! https://SacKids.org
your family. www.Roseville.Ca.us
5pm at Carmichael Park
Children’s Book Week This month features an 10am at Fairytale Town array of festivities, including Celebrate Children’s Book Week all long with story times, activities, 9 10 a Mother’s Day boat ride, week giveaways and more. Rocklin Community Festival Artful Tot www.FairytaleTown.org 4pm at Johnson Springview Park 10:30am at Crocker Art Museum the Rocklin Community The best “small town” fair with Toddlers will explore art using differ8 Festival, the BerryFest carnival rides, games, vendor booths, ent mediums in creative ways. Sesquicentennial Community Day www.CrockerArt.org nightly entertainment and a food Strawberry Festival, 10am at Old Sacramento State Historic Park court. May 9-12. Join the California Railroad Museum www.RocklinCommunityFestival.org 17 Sac Fry Fest and more, at the park for free outdoor festivities Friday Flicks: Fantastic Beasts The to celebrate the Transcontinental Crimes of Grindelwald (PG-13) 16 plus exciting shows and Railroad. 7:30pm (or sunset) at Vernon Street Town Cultural Connections www.CaliforniaRailroad.Museum Square museum displays. 10am at Sacramento Children’s Museum Watch a movie under the stars with Preschool Playgroup
10am at Roseville Utility Exploration Center
Hands-on activities and discovery play. (Ages 0 to 5) www.Roseville.Ca.Us/ UECPreschool Musical Story Time with Heather Evans 11:30am at Arden-Dimick Library
Hear nursery rhymes and favorite children’s songs with Heather Evans. (Ages 0-5) www.SacLibrary.org Brick Fest Live, May 4th
15 Wee Wednesday 10:30am & 11am at Crocker Art Museum
Explore various art mediums. (Ages 3-5) www.CrockerArt.org
22 Big Truck Day 11am at Laguna Reserve MarketPlace
Rocklin Community Festival, May 9-12
Honk the horn of the bus, get behind the wheel of a semi-truck, play with giant bubbles and learn about the vehicles involved in maintaining a city. (Ages 2-6) www.ElkGroveCity.org
29 Tinker Time 3pm at Sacramento Children’s Museum
Make, build, invent, and solve engineering design challenges. Free with paid museum admission. https://SacKids.org 38 MAY 2019 sacramentoparent.com
23
LEGO Mania!
Old Sacramento Underground Tour
LEGO and DUPLO LEGO bricks will be provided at this free program. (All ages) www.SacLibrary.org
Various times at Sacramento History Museum
Tour guides explain how the streets and buildings were “jacked up” to avoid flooding as visitors explore underground spaces, sloped alleyways and hollow sidewalks from the 1860s and 70s. http://SacHistoryMuseum.org
30 New Kids on the Block 7:30pm at Golden 1 Center
Relive your childhood, but with your own kiddos included! The lineup includes Salt-N-Pepa, Tiffany and Debbie Gibson. www.Golden1Center.com Story Time and Craft 11am at BrainyZoo Toys
Join BrainyZoo for a fun story time and Craft. www.BrainyZooToys.com
3:30pm at McKinley Library
Golden State Pinball Festival 1pm at World of Wonders Science Museum, Lodi
Come to play pinball in three buildings full of pinball machines! You can enjoy hours of fun for the price of admission. They’re all on FREE PLAYno quarters necessary! (May 17-19) www.WOWScienceMuseum.org
24 Roseville Greek Food Festival 5pm at St. Anna Greek Orthodox Church
Eat, drink and dance Greek Style. May 24-26. http://Festival.SaintAnna.org
31 Drive-In Movie Night 8:05pm at West Wind All Digital Drive-In
Watch a newly released movie with your family from the car! Kids are only $1.50 and children under 4 are free. www.WestWindDI.com
For more events, visit our online calendar at sacramentoparent.com.
saturday
tuesday
monday
sunday
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5
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Brick Fest Live LEGO Fan Experience
2019 Dinosaur Day
Disney Trivia Night: Pixar & Parks
Toddler Time
9am at Sierra College Natural History Museum
6:30pm at The Monk’s Cellar Brewery & Public House, Roseville
10am at Funderland Amusement Park
Over a million LEGO® Bricks will be on display and ready for play, featuring hands-on activities, LEGO models, robotics, a brick sandbox, build zones, a neon city and more! May 4-5. www.BrickFestLive.com
Make archaeopteryx hats, dino puppets, tie-dye shirts and morph into reptiles with reptilian face paint. www.SierraCollege.edu
Pixar and Disney-themed trivia night benefiting the Friends of the Roseville Public Library. http://MonksCellar.com
Wizard Fun Run
Game Night by The Game Getaway
8:30am at Vernon Street Town Square
6pm at The Fat Rabbit
Star Wars Day
Wizards and muggles are invited to a magical fun run! Costumes are a must in Hogwarts Square. www.Roseville.Ca.Us
Every Monday, The Game Getaway closes at 6pm so families can head over to The Fat Rabbit for more than 100 games to play! www.Facebook.com/ TheGameGetaway/events
3:30pm at Rocklin Library
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9am at Sacramento Children’s Museum
10am at Sacramento Convention Center
11am at Funderland Amusement Park
Meet intergalactic characters and have fun with Star Wars-themed activities. www.FairytaleTown.org Nor Cal Robotics Expo 10am at Sierra College, Rocklin
12 Mother’s Day Train & Brunch 11am at Sacramento River Train
Robotic competitions, demonstrations and opportunities to learn about building robots, drafting, coding, welding, robotics and more. www.NorCalRoboticsExpo.org
Take a boat ride down to the river while enjoying a continental brunch, complimentary water and orange juice. www.SacramentoRiverTrain.com
Story Time
Garden Series: Mud Pies
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All Aboard for Storytime
Bayside Car Show
Join this world-class museum each Monday for story time. Free with paid museum admission. (Ages 2-5) www.CaliforniaRailroad.museum
10am at Placer Nature Center
Make mud pies sprinkled with flowers and explore the components of soil. Dress for a mess. http://PlacerNatureCenter.org
11 Sac Fry Fest 3pm at Roosevelt Park, Sacramento
All things fries, plus live music and fry-themed entertainment, craft brew, cider and local vendors. www.SacFryFest.com BerryFest Strawberry Festival 10am at @theGrounds Placer County
Live entertainment, a petting zoo, kids zone, carnival rides, characters and lots of strawberry-infused treats. www.FeedMeBerries.com
18 Fish Family Fest Sacramento 4pm at Cal Expo Fairgrounds
Inflatables, video game truck, face painting, Disney characters, live music by Lincoln Brewster and Bethel Music, local vendors with games and lots of food. https://TheFishSacramento.com
25 14th Annual International Kids Festival 10am at William Land Park
Pony rides, inflatables, a rock climbing wall, mini train rides, trampolines, live entertainment and food trucks. www.SacKidsFest.com
9am at Bayside Adventure Church
Enjoy classic cars, food trucks, raffle prizes and a Kids Zone with bounce houses, face painting and more. www.Facebook.com/ events/339736250002269/ Nitro Circus 6pm at Papa Murphy’s Park
10:30am at Maidu Library, Roseville
Books, puppets, rhymes and songs! (Ages 0-5) www.Roseville.Ca.us 11am at the California Railroad Museum
20 Princess Night 6pm at Pete’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, Rocklin
Jaw-dropping stunts featuring the best athletes in FMX, BMX, skate, scooter and more. https://Aws.NitroCircus.com
Princesses visit with dinner guests, create balloon animals and face pain. Children can come in costumes too. http://PetesRandB.com
Mother Son Wacky Golf
I Play Yoga
9am at Emerald Lakes Golf Course
Mothers and sons will make their way down the fairway with frisbees, tennis racquets, baseballs and other wacky equipment provided by the club. www.YourCSD.com/683/ Mother-Son-Wacky-Golf
26 Excursion Train Ride 11am at California State Railroad Museum
Hop aboard for a 45-minute train ride along the Sacramento River. Tickets are purchased on a first-come, firstserved basis. Check the website for the departure location. www.CaliforniaRailroad.Museum Kids Fun Zone 1pm at Southgate Plaza
Free activities, crafts and STEM projects. New projects each month. (Ages 12 and under) www.Southgate-Plaza.com
A play-based learning experience featuring crafts, singing, stories and sensory play. (Ages 2-5) https://FunderlandPark.com
14 Paws To Read Children polish their reading skills by reading to a furry pup. www.Placer.ca.gov/4169/Events $2 Off Tuesdays at Sacramento Children’s Museum Explore, create and learn with handson activities, art, experiments and imaginative centers designed to peak the curiosity of little ones. www.SacKids.org
21 Open Play Art Exploration 9am at The Art Box
Explore the art studio during open play hours on Tuesdays for $8. Dress for a mess. (18 months to 8 years old) ArtBoxFairOaks.com Family Fun Night 6:30pm at West Wind Drive-In
Head to the drive-in movies for a midweek experience your family will never forget. Movie tickets are discounted on Tuesdays. www.WestWindDI.com
16
4:45 at Spotted Dog Yoga
Baby Loves Art
Just like any other sport, kids can “play” yoga and take the lessons that this practice teaches them out into their lives as they grow. Memberships, punch cards, and drop-in rates available. Spots are limited; please text (916)-990-1720 to reserve a spot for your child. (Ages 5-13) http://spotteddogyoga.com/
10:30am at Crocker Art Museum
27 Old Sacramento Underground Tour Various times at Sacramento History Museum
Tour guides explain how the streets and buildings were “Jacked Up!” to avoid flooding as visitors explore underground spaces, sloped alleyways and hollow sidewalks from the 1860s and 70s. http://SacHistoryMuseum.org
A visually stimulating gallery walk designed for babies up to 18 months old. http://CrockerArt.org
28 Toddler Time 10am at Funderland Amusement Park
A play-based learning experience featuring crafts, singing, stories and sensory play. (Ages 2-5) https://FunderlandPark.com Special Needs Tuesdays 3pm at Sky High Sports
Children with special needs and their caregivers/therapists enjoy special pricing and accommodations on Tuesdays at this indoor trampoline park (no music and a designated court to jump on). Sac.SkyHighSports.com sacramentoparent.com MAY 2019 39
calendar/shows
It’s always a good idea to check the website before you head out!
The Addams Family
Alice in Wonderland
Through May 12 at Harris Center Follow Alice down the rabbit hole in this fabulous production based on Lewis Carroll’s classic fairy tale, Alice and Wonderland. (Middle school-age and up) www.HarrisCenter.net
Placer Theatre Ballet’s Sleeping Beauty
Holmes and Watson
Apocalypse Ever After
May 4-5 at Placer High School Auditorium This breathtaking ballet performance features princesses, fairies, minions and our favorite fairy tale characters. http://PlacerTheatreBallet.org
Through May 26 at B Street Theatre Dr. Watson is called upon to discredit a number of false sightings of Sherlock Holmes in the year after Sherlock’s “assumed” death. Come along with Watson as he exposes the fakes in this suspenseful new story detailing a surprising journey of our favorite detectives. https://BStreetTheatre.org
May 4-18 at Roseville Theatre Arts Academy In the town of Nurseryville, favorite nursery rhyme characters believe disaster is about to strike. Follow characters such as Little Bo Peep, Farmer Dell and The Big Bad Wolf as they navigate a not-so-threatening world and its perceived threats in this hilarious stage performance. www.RosevilleTheatreArtsAcademy.com
UC Davis Symphony Orchestra
The Tempest for Kids
May 4 at Jackson Hall, Mondavi Center Introduce your family to the awe-inspiring sounds and music of the symphony. www.MondaviArts.org
40 MAY 2019 sacramentoparent.com
May 8-19 at Sacramento Theatre Company This family-friendly and accessible musical adaptation of Shakespeare’s classic is written in rhyming couplets and performed by STC School of the Arts Pre-Professional Ensemble and Young Professionals Conservatory students. www.SacTheatre.org
May 10-18 Presented by CYT at Valley Springs Church Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family–a man her parents have never met. Everything will change for the whole family on the fateful night they host a dinner for Wednesday’s ‘normal’ boyfriend and his parents. www.CYTSacramento.org
Disney’s Aladdin
May 15-June 2 at Broadway Sacramento The new hit Broadway musical brings the beloved story of Disney’s Aladdin to the stage. www.BroadwaySacramento.com
Getting to Know: The Sound of Music
May 17-19 Destiny Community Center Destiny Performing Arts presents Getting to Know: The Sound of Music, an abbreviated version of The Sound of Music, which has been adapted for a younger cast. http://Center.LoveOurCity.com
calendar/exhibits
Looking .. Ahead.
It’s always a good idea to check the website before you head out! Toadtopia On display indefinitely at Crocker Art Museum
Toadtopia, the museum’s latest interactive art spot for children, was created by local artists Molly Devlin and S.V. Williams. It presents a toad’s point of view, where magical creatures abound and play is super-sized. www.CrockerArt.org
Vacations & Staycations All About Dad It’s Party Time!
Undisputed Origin Through May 11 at ACAI Studios & Gallery
Two artists display their imaginative creations, including inanimate objects such as robots, vessels, figurative sculptures and drawings. http://AcaiStudios.com
Campfires & Summer Adventures
Historic Print Shop Permanent exhibit at Sacramento History Museum
Learn about newspaper production and job printing, get your own “Wanted” poster and talk with docents about this working 19th century print shop. http://SacHistoryMuseum.org The Community Gallery Permanent exhibit at Sacramento History Museum
Learn about Nisenan Indian culture, riverboat transportation, Victorian childhood and municipal infrastructure throughout this cool exhibit that portrays how Sacramento has changed over the years. http://SacHistoryMuseum.org
Pick up your free copy at one of over 1,000 locations throughout Greater Sacramento, or read it online at
www.SacramentoParent.com
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humor me
Once Upon a Time, Before the Internet... By Rebecca Hastings There’s a talk I’ve been meaning to have with my kids. It’s serious. Maybe the kind I should sit all three of them on the couch for, side by side, so I can look at each of them in the eyes. I think they’ve heard pieces of what I need to tell them, but never the whole thing. Here goes. There was this time, it was way back in the 1900’s, when we didn’t have cell phones, internet, or even cordless phones. (I watch them try to process this, with heads tilting slightly to the side.) Do you understand what I’m saying? When I wanted to know if a friend was wearing a certain thing to school I had to go in my kitchen, right there where my parents were making dinner and doing parent things. I had to reach over to the wall and pick up a phone that was attached to the box on the wall with a twisty cord. It was only ten feet, so I was stuck in the kitchen. Or just outside the doorway if I stretched the cord really tight. I had to dial seven numbers to call her. No, these were not saved as a contact in the phone. I had to remember the number for every person I wanted to call. As I waited
for someone to answer I had to be ready for anything, even talking to her parents. If my friend answered it wasn’t so bad, but sometimes her parents or her brother would answer and I had to actually talk to them. “Hi, this is Becky. Is Sarah there?” (It was terrible.) And then she would get on the phone and we would chat. We had to be careful though. At any point someone could hear us, or worse, pickup another phone in the house and listen in. Siblings seemed to be great at that. (They elbow one another, imagining listening to each other’s calls.) It’s funny to them because it’s like a fable. They never had their brother hear that they had a crush on a certain boy at school and then have him taunt you about it until you cleaned his room to keep him quiet. My youngest raises a hand,as if in school. Clearly she is taking this seriously. “Why didn’t you just text her?” she says. And in that moment I just want to hold her little face and say, “Oh, sweetie”. I respond, “Those phones didn’t have texting. Texting didn’t exist”. (This settled like a rock in a lake, and I watched the ripples as they processed this.)
There was no texting. No emoji’s. No private phone lines. No talking wherever you want. Just that phone in the kitchen. Eventually, I got my own phone in my room, but that was still risky. Anyone could pick up another phone in the house and hear everything I was saying. (Their eyes were wide with disbelief. It was time to go all the way.) We also didn’t have internet. Actually, we didn’t even have computers. In high school I got my first computer, and the internet was not what it is today. (“How did you find stuff out?” my son asks.) Well, we had to use books. We had to look things up. Go to the library every time we needed a random fact about seahorses for a report. We had to wait and ask the teacher if we didn’t understand how to do our homework. They pause and ask, “What about the weather? I ask Alexa what the weather is every day. How would I know?” I wanted to be snarky. But I resisted. This was a different world I was describing. You looked outside. Stepped outside to see how cold it was. You could turn on the TV and wait for the weather to be reported on the morning news. It was usually every eight minutes or
so. It wasn’t bad. (“Mom, this sounds crazy.”) That’s only because it’s not what you know. You know what was crazy? When I had a five page report due and I had to write it on real paper. In cursive. (“No way!”) Yup. Or what about when I wanted to show my friend a picture. I had to take the picture. Actually 24 pictures. Then wind up the film and drop it off or send it in the mail to be developed. After that I would wait a few days or sometimes a week and get an envelope with all 24 pictures. And I had to hope one came out the way I wanted. Then I had to carry that picture with me to show my friend. (“How did you take a selfie? What did they do about filters?”) We didn’t and there were none. “Woah.” They all got quiet for a few moments and I just looked at them; they were so unaware. Finally, my oldest spoke, “I’m so grateful we have this stuff mom”. I smiled and nodded. Yes. Good talk kids, good talk. My work is done.
Rebecca traded the classroom for writing when she stayed home with her three children. Passionate about authenticity, faith, and family, you can find her at RebeccaHastings.net and on Amazon. In real life, she can often be found typing words, driving her kids places or wherever there is chocolate.
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